Dennis Newhook, RMT, CYT
Iyengar yoga is often described as a science, philosophy, and art. Anyone who has had the privilege of studying with an experienced, senior level teacher will know firsthand how accurate this description really is!
The postures are practiced in a particular sequence and done with precise alignment; philosophy is based on the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, one of the oldest surviving texts on yoga; committed practice of grounding, extension, and freely moving breath enlivens every bodily cell allowing full expression of the practitioner's inner light to shine.
Unlike any other yoga tradition, Iyengar yoga teachers undergo rigorous training and national level certification exams to ensure the highest standard of practice, ethics, and safety. To learn more about Iyengar yoga in Canada, please visit the Iyengar Yoga Association of Canada's website at iyengaryogacanada.com.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Saturday, February 21, 2009
The "R" in RMT
Dennis Newhook RMT, CYT
Most people know that RMT stands for Registered Massage Therapist. However, few people understand what being "registered" really entails. The title of RMT is protected by legislation overseen by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO). The CMTO is committed to protecting the public by maintaining high standards of practice for Massage Therapy throughout the province. Anyone carrying the title of RMT must be an active member of the CMTO, having proved their compentency by meeting educational requirements, passing registration exams, and through continuous education and peer assessment. Massage practitioners who do not carry the title of RMT are NOT regulated professionals. Though they may offer quality service, there is no governing body in place to oversee their practice or to protect the public should problems arise. Like all regulatory health colleges, the CMTO's primary goal is to ensure public safety by monitoring its members. If you have a concern regarding the quality of care you've received from any regulated healthcare professional, you are encouraged to contact the College for that profession. A complete list of regulated health professions and their governing Colleges can be found at the Federation of Health Regulatory Colleges of Ontario's Website: www.regulatedhealthprofessions.on.ca.
Currently there are 21 regulated health professions in Ontario. Advising the Ministry of Health as to which health professions should become regulated is the Health Professionals Regulatory Advisory Council (HPRAC). The Council works closely with public concerns regarding health services and conducts research to determine if currently unregulated health practices should become regulated by the government. Visit them at their website: www.hprac.org. The list of regulated professions in Ontario is slowly growing. Because of HPRAC the list will soon include Kinesiology, Naturopathy, Psychotherapy, Homeopathy, and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Within Ontario we have rights AND options as healthcare consumers. Becoming informed is the first step to becoming empowered. The choices you make not only affect your own health, but the health of your loved ones and the whole community. Finally, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care provides many great resources and links for healthcare consumers. Check them out at http://www.health.gov.on.ca/.
Most people know that RMT stands for Registered Massage Therapist. However, few people understand what being "registered" really entails. The title of RMT is protected by legislation overseen by the College of Massage Therapists of Ontario (CMTO). The CMTO is committed to protecting the public by maintaining high standards of practice for Massage Therapy throughout the province. Anyone carrying the title of RMT must be an active member of the CMTO, having proved their compentency by meeting educational requirements, passing registration exams, and through continuous education and peer assessment. Massage practitioners who do not carry the title of RMT are NOT regulated professionals. Though they may offer quality service, there is no governing body in place to oversee their practice or to protect the public should problems arise. Like all regulatory health colleges, the CMTO's primary goal is to ensure public safety by monitoring its members. If you have a concern regarding the quality of care you've received from any regulated healthcare professional, you are encouraged to contact the College for that profession. A complete list of regulated health professions and their governing Colleges can be found at the Federation of Health Regulatory Colleges of Ontario's Website: www.regulatedhealthprofessions.on.ca.
Currently there are 21 regulated health professions in Ontario. Advising the Ministry of Health as to which health professions should become regulated is the Health Professionals Regulatory Advisory Council (HPRAC). The Council works closely with public concerns regarding health services and conducts research to determine if currently unregulated health practices should become regulated by the government. Visit them at their website: www.hprac.org. The list of regulated professions in Ontario is slowly growing. Because of HPRAC the list will soon include Kinesiology, Naturopathy, Psychotherapy, Homeopathy, and Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Within Ontario we have rights AND options as healthcare consumers. Becoming informed is the first step to becoming empowered. The choices you make not only affect your own health, but the health of your loved ones and the whole community. Finally, the Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care provides many great resources and links for healthcare consumers. Check them out at http://www.health.gov.on.ca/.
The Sound of Movement
Karen Baker BSc, DC
There are a lot of preconceived ideas about chiropractic adjustment - and, many people are afraid of the “cracking” sound that often accompanies a classic manual manipulation. Rest assured, the crack you hear is NOT bones breaking, but is a result of gas bubbles being released from the fluid in your joints - this sound actually has a name: cavitation.
An analogy I often use to describe what’s happening is that of a soda bottle. You may have noticed that when you open a bottle of pop, bubbles seem to form out of nowhere. The carbonation process has infused CO2 into the liquid; kept under pressure, it will stay there. When the volume of the container holding the liquid increases (or the cap is opened), those CO2 molecules (which would rather be in gas form) now have somewhere to go, and come out of solution forming gas bubbles. If you open the bottle slowly, the bubbles form slowly, fizzing to the surface of the liquid; if opened quickly, they “pop” out of solution all at once.
This is very similar to what happens in our joints when we stretch them. Our joints are filled with nutrient rich liquid called synovial fluid. There is nitrogen gas dissolved within this fluid. Unlike a pop bottle, our joints are flexible structures enclosed by a soft capsule that can stretch. As our joints move the volume of the space changes allowing these nitrogen molecules to move into and out of solution on a regular basis. If the joint moves slowly, these bubbles will form slowly and no noticeable noise will follow. But if stretched quickly enough the gas bubbles will pop out of solution making a cracking sound.
This being said, you should never agree to a procedure that you are not comfortable with. If you are afraid, there are other ways to get the joints moving that don’t require a crack. So talk to your chiropractor about different treatment methods that will meet you at your comfort level.
There are a lot of preconceived ideas about chiropractic adjustment - and, many people are afraid of the “cracking” sound that often accompanies a classic manual manipulation. Rest assured, the crack you hear is NOT bones breaking, but is a result of gas bubbles being released from the fluid in your joints - this sound actually has a name: cavitation.
An analogy I often use to describe what’s happening is that of a soda bottle. You may have noticed that when you open a bottle of pop, bubbles seem to form out of nowhere. The carbonation process has infused CO2 into the liquid; kept under pressure, it will stay there. When the volume of the container holding the liquid increases (or the cap is opened), those CO2 molecules (which would rather be in gas form) now have somewhere to go, and come out of solution forming gas bubbles. If you open the bottle slowly, the bubbles form slowly, fizzing to the surface of the liquid; if opened quickly, they “pop” out of solution all at once.
This is very similar to what happens in our joints when we stretch them. Our joints are filled with nutrient rich liquid called synovial fluid. There is nitrogen gas dissolved within this fluid. Unlike a pop bottle, our joints are flexible structures enclosed by a soft capsule that can stretch. As our joints move the volume of the space changes allowing these nitrogen molecules to move into and out of solution on a regular basis. If the joint moves slowly, these bubbles will form slowly and no noticeable noise will follow. But if stretched quickly enough the gas bubbles will pop out of solution making a cracking sound.
This being said, you should never agree to a procedure that you are not comfortable with. If you are afraid, there are other ways to get the joints moving that don’t require a crack. So talk to your chiropractor about different treatment methods that will meet you at your comfort level.
Nikie B’s Oatmeal Cookies …with a twist
Nikie Brossard
If you are a cookie lover, but want to be more health conscious, try this healthier version of an old favorite…
Ingredients:
* 1 cup spelt flour
* 1 cup hazelnut butter
* ¼ cup of maple syrup
* 1 tbsp of Stevia *
* 2 cups of oatmeal
* chocolate or carob chips as desired
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350o F.
2. Mix ingredients.
3. Grease cookie sheet with butter (Organic is best, avoid processed products such as margarine or Pam).
4. Make 1 tbsp balls of dough and place on cookie sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20min to desired tenderness.
* for more information about STEVIA go to: www.stevia.com
If you are a cookie lover, but want to be more health conscious, try this healthier version of an old favorite…
Ingredients:
* 1 cup spelt flour
* 1 cup hazelnut butter
* ¼ cup of maple syrup
* 1 tbsp of Stevia *
* 2 cups of oatmeal
* chocolate or carob chips as desired
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350o F.
2. Mix ingredients.
3. Grease cookie sheet with butter (Organic is best, avoid processed products such as margarine or Pam).
4. Make 1 tbsp balls of dough and place on cookie sheet.
5. Bake for 15-20min to desired tenderness.
* for more information about STEVIA go to: www.stevia.com
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Joints in Motion
Karen Baker BSc, DC
Most of my patients have heard me say something like “move it or lose it” or “motion is lotion”. Well, as a chiropractor, this is my model; “It’s all about motion” is my mantra. Movement is fundamental to a healthy body. And for the joints, lack of motion means death, literally (cell death, really). We often forget that the tissues that make up the body are alive. They consist of millions of cells busy working to keep us doing what we’re doing. These cells require energy and materials to continue to perform their daily jobs.
Most of our cells receive nutrients via blood vessels (capillaries). One notable exception is the cartilage that lines our moveable synovial joints. This tissue does not have its own blood supply. These cells depend on the regular motion of the joint to squish the synovial fluid into these tissues (a process called imbibition) so that this nutrient filled fluid can be absorbed into the cells. Without this process, the cells of the cartilage do not receive the nutrients they need to thrive or even survive. As these cell degenerate, the cartilage barrier between the bones becomes thin. As the bones get closer and closer together they will start to grow towards each other forming bony spurs (called osteophytes) in an attempt to fuse this unused joint. This, although simplified, is the process of osteoarthritis (OA).
This process also applies to our spine. These same synovial joints exist between the vertebrae, allowing our torso to bend and twist. The detrimental effects of a sedentary lifestyle are numerous, and to the spine - disastrous.
The best thing we can do for all of our joints is keep them moving through their full range of motion – every day.
Most of my patients have heard me say something like “move it or lose it” or “motion is lotion”. Well, as a chiropractor, this is my model; “It’s all about motion” is my mantra. Movement is fundamental to a healthy body. And for the joints, lack of motion means death, literally (cell death, really). We often forget that the tissues that make up the body are alive. They consist of millions of cells busy working to keep us doing what we’re doing. These cells require energy and materials to continue to perform their daily jobs.
Most of our cells receive nutrients via blood vessels (capillaries). One notable exception is the cartilage that lines our moveable synovial joints. This tissue does not have its own blood supply. These cells depend on the regular motion of the joint to squish the synovial fluid into these tissues (a process called imbibition) so that this nutrient filled fluid can be absorbed into the cells. Without this process, the cells of the cartilage do not receive the nutrients they need to thrive or even survive. As these cell degenerate, the cartilage barrier between the bones becomes thin. As the bones get closer and closer together they will start to grow towards each other forming bony spurs (called osteophytes) in an attempt to fuse this unused joint. This, although simplified, is the process of osteoarthritis (OA).
This process also applies to our spine. These same synovial joints exist between the vertebrae, allowing our torso to bend and twist. The detrimental effects of a sedentary lifestyle are numerous, and to the spine - disastrous.
The best thing we can do for all of our joints is keep them moving through their full range of motion – every day.
Should I take Calcium Supplements?
Peter Wilansky-Traynor CHNP, PTS
As the population ages, the importance of healthy bones has become a growing concern. With that concern, comes the question of calcium supplements.
Our bones do much more than most of us realize. Of course, the skeleton serves as the infrastructure to our bodies - keeping us upright, and giving our muscles and other soft tissues something to attach to - allowing us to stand, sit, and move around. The skull, ribcage, spine and pelvis also provide protection for our vital organs. In addition to these obvious structural roles, bones have important functions in our body chemistry: Blood cells are produced in the marrow of the bones; long bones store fat that can be used as energy. Bones also store vital minerals required for proper function of nerves and muscles (such as calcium and phosphorus). The correct level of these nutrients is needed for healthy cells. While low levels of calcium in the blood can cause muscle spasms and leaching of calcium from the bones, too much calcium can slow neuromuscular activity, cause lethargy and in extreme cases - heart failure.
Although everyone needs to ingest the nutrients needed for strong, healthy bones, therapeutic doses of calcium can actually worsen some health conditions.
The need for supplementation depends on each person’s health condition, and biochemical individuality. In my nutrition practice, I use Metabolic Typing as a tool to help determine an individual’s needs. Certain “Metabolic Types” naturally require higher amounts of calcium in their diet; while others do well on diets lower in calcium but higher in the synergistic nutrients required for absorption and use of calcium by the body.
So before you stock up on Calcium supplements, make sure that is really what your body requires.
As the population ages, the importance of healthy bones has become a growing concern. With that concern, comes the question of calcium supplements.
Our bones do much more than most of us realize. Of course, the skeleton serves as the infrastructure to our bodies - keeping us upright, and giving our muscles and other soft tissues something to attach to - allowing us to stand, sit, and move around. The skull, ribcage, spine and pelvis also provide protection for our vital organs. In addition to these obvious structural roles, bones have important functions in our body chemistry: Blood cells are produced in the marrow of the bones; long bones store fat that can be used as energy. Bones also store vital minerals required for proper function of nerves and muscles (such as calcium and phosphorus). The correct level of these nutrients is needed for healthy cells. While low levels of calcium in the blood can cause muscle spasms and leaching of calcium from the bones, too much calcium can slow neuromuscular activity, cause lethargy and in extreme cases - heart failure.
Although everyone needs to ingest the nutrients needed for strong, healthy bones, therapeutic doses of calcium can actually worsen some health conditions.
The need for supplementation depends on each person’s health condition, and biochemical individuality. In my nutrition practice, I use Metabolic Typing as a tool to help determine an individual’s needs. Certain “Metabolic Types” naturally require higher amounts of calcium in their diet; while others do well on diets lower in calcium but higher in the synergistic nutrients required for absorption and use of calcium by the body.
So before you stock up on Calcium supplements, make sure that is really what your body requires.
How Many Joints are in My Feet?
Dennis Newhook RMT, CYT
Here's a clue: each foot contains 26 bones (7 bones in the ankle region, 5 long bones in the mid-foot and 14 bones in the toes). These bones create 33 joints where they interact with one another. This makes for an incredibly flexible structure with great strength which not only supports our body's weight, but propels us forward through life. Leonardo Da Vinci called the foot "a masterpiece of engineering and a work of art" -- if we all shared that view our often achy and tired feet might get the attention they deserve! During the winter months, when the ground is cold, wet, and slippery and our feet are bundled up in heavy boots, the 33 joints of our feet do not have the opportunity to move through their full range of motion. Lack of motion coupled with the cold temperatures can cause the muscles of our feet to tighten and the joints to stiffen. A few simple measures can help keep your feet healthy and happy throughout the winter so that when the snow melts, spring is not only in the air but also in your step.
Tips to help your feet survive the winter:
• soaking the feet to mid-shin in a hot Epsom salt bath once or twice a week
• self-massage on the feet improves circulation and mobility
• daily stretching of the feet, toes, and ankles
• make sure that orthotic inserts stay dry and are periodically checked by your health professional
• always check feet for cuts, rashes, calluses, which might be the early warning signs of a more serious foot condition.
Here's a clue: each foot contains 26 bones (7 bones in the ankle region, 5 long bones in the mid-foot and 14 bones in the toes). These bones create 33 joints where they interact with one another. This makes for an incredibly flexible structure with great strength which not only supports our body's weight, but propels us forward through life. Leonardo Da Vinci called the foot "a masterpiece of engineering and a work of art" -- if we all shared that view our often achy and tired feet might get the attention they deserve! During the winter months, when the ground is cold, wet, and slippery and our feet are bundled up in heavy boots, the 33 joints of our feet do not have the opportunity to move through their full range of motion. Lack of motion coupled with the cold temperatures can cause the muscles of our feet to tighten and the joints to stiffen. A few simple measures can help keep your feet healthy and happy throughout the winter so that when the snow melts, spring is not only in the air but also in your step.
Tips to help your feet survive the winter:
• soaking the feet to mid-shin in a hot Epsom salt bath once or twice a week
• self-massage on the feet improves circulation and mobility
• daily stretching of the feet, toes, and ankles
• make sure that orthotic inserts stay dry and are periodically checked by your health professional
• always check feet for cuts, rashes, calluses, which might be the early warning signs of a more serious foot condition.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Surviving Holiday Travel
Dennis Newhook RMT, CYT
For many people, my self included, the holiday season involves some form of travel. Regardless of the mode of transportation, we are often required to sit for long hours in less than desirable seating. This combined with the usual stressors of travel (long line-ups, flight delays, winter driving conditions) can leave us exhausted and susceptible to back pain, headaches, and digestive upset. The following tips can help make travelling more enjoyable and allow you to keep your focus on enjoying the season:
• Consider bringing your own pillow to relatives’ homes, especially if you suffer from chronic neck pain.
• Wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing for those long flights or car rides. Be certain to stand up and stretch at least once per hour.
• Eat lightly while travelling, and stay well hydrated. Many airlines recommend drinking 8 ounces of fluids for every hour in the air. Not only will it keep you hydrated, but getting up to use the washroom will give you a chance to stretch! Avoid dehydrating alcoholic or caffeinated beverages.
• Applying moisturizer before a long plane ride can go a long way in helping prevent dehydration.
• If you regularly experience air sickness, request a window seat above the wing and sip water throughout the flight.
• To cut down on the spread of colds, try wiping down your arm rests, monitor, and food try with a soapy paper towel from the washroom.
• Try getting outdoors when you arrive at your destination; exposure to sunlight will help your body’s clock to adjust to a new time zone.
For many people, my self included, the holiday season involves some form of travel. Regardless of the mode of transportation, we are often required to sit for long hours in less than desirable seating. This combined with the usual stressors of travel (long line-ups, flight delays, winter driving conditions) can leave us exhausted and susceptible to back pain, headaches, and digestive upset. The following tips can help make travelling more enjoyable and allow you to keep your focus on enjoying the season:
• Consider bringing your own pillow to relatives’ homes, especially if you suffer from chronic neck pain.
• Wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing for those long flights or car rides. Be certain to stand up and stretch at least once per hour.
• Eat lightly while travelling, and stay well hydrated. Many airlines recommend drinking 8 ounces of fluids for every hour in the air. Not only will it keep you hydrated, but getting up to use the washroom will give you a chance to stretch! Avoid dehydrating alcoholic or caffeinated beverages.
• Applying moisturizer before a long plane ride can go a long way in helping prevent dehydration.
• If you regularly experience air sickness, request a window seat above the wing and sip water throughout the flight.
• To cut down on the spread of colds, try wiping down your arm rests, monitor, and food try with a soapy paper towel from the washroom.
• Try getting outdoors when you arrive at your destination; exposure to sunlight will help your body’s clock to adjust to a new time zone.
Healthy Living during the Holidays
Peter Wilansky-Traynor CHNP, PTS
During the holiday season healthy eating appears to go out the window. We tend to indulge a little too much (…or a lot). We eat those office chocolates with abandon, take that second (or maybe third) helping, and will likely have one-too-many yuletide cocktails – we all do it! The problem is most people don’t think about just how detrimental these behaviours can be to our health. Do yourself a favour this year and try following these healthy tips over the holiday season. Your body will thank you!
Before going to a party or family function, try eating a small portion of something healthy before you leave home. At the party, try filling up on vegetables and healthier choices before heading to tasty sugar laden foods.
Avoid skipping meals. Starving yourself before a get-together increases the odds that you'll overeat once you get there.
If the holiday party is at your house, try sending the leftovers (especially the desserts) home with your guests.
Stay hydrated. Many of the beverages we drink actually dehydrate our bodies (i.e. alcohol, coffee, and mulled wine). Be sure to drink at least 2 – 3 litres of water per day to keep your body working efficiently.
Take your kids on winter outings. Ice skating and tobogganing are fun choices that also burns calories. Spending the day trekking a sled up the hill is a great workout.
During the holiday season healthy eating appears to go out the window. We tend to indulge a little too much (…or a lot). We eat those office chocolates with abandon, take that second (or maybe third) helping, and will likely have one-too-many yuletide cocktails – we all do it! The problem is most people don’t think about just how detrimental these behaviours can be to our health. Do yourself a favour this year and try following these healthy tips over the holiday season. Your body will thank you!
Before going to a party or family function, try eating a small portion of something healthy before you leave home. At the party, try filling up on vegetables and healthier choices before heading to tasty sugar laden foods.
Avoid skipping meals. Starving yourself before a get-together increases the odds that you'll overeat once you get there.
If the holiday party is at your house, try sending the leftovers (especially the desserts) home with your guests.
Stay hydrated. Many of the beverages we drink actually dehydrate our bodies (i.e. alcohol, coffee, and mulled wine). Be sure to drink at least 2 – 3 litres of water per day to keep your body working efficiently.
Take your kids on winter outings. Ice skating and tobogganing are fun choices that also burns calories. Spending the day trekking a sled up the hill is a great workout.
What’s the Scoop on Probiotics?
Karen Baker BSc, DC
There seems to be a lot of media chatter recently about “good bacteria” and probiotics. Many of my patient’s have been asking me: what’s the inside scoop?
Well, probiotics are species of health promoting bacteria that we require for proper digestion of food and for immune defense against illness promoting bacteria, viruses and fungi. The term “probiotic” derives from Latin and Greek, meaning “for life”. The World Health Organization has defined probiotics as: live “micro-organisms” which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host. In fact, to have optimal health we need to be home to over 100 trillion of these health-promoting bacteria! That’s 10 times the amount of cells you have in your entire body!
Having the proper probiotic bacteria in your digestive system is essential for your health and wellbeing, and being deficient can lead to severe health problems. Intestinal microflora (probiotics) promote balanced gastrointestinal function and are essential for many metabolic requirements such as synthesizing vitamins and short chain fatty acids and digesting fiber and proteins. Probiotic bactieria are also important for immune function. They directly protect from infection by competing with the unhealthy bacteria, viruses and fungi we are exposed to every day.
Research shows that we now consume one-millionth of the healthy probiotic bacteria that we did before pesticides, herbicides and industrial farming. Much of our healthy bacteria are destroyed by eating sugars, grains, and by consuming alcohol, antibiotics, and other prescription drugs. The North American diet is dangerously deficient in probiotic bacteria. This deficiency is implicated as a causal factor in alarming numbers of preventable illnesses from infancy to old age.
There seems to be a lot of media chatter recently about “good bacteria” and probiotics. Many of my patient’s have been asking me: what’s the inside scoop?
Well, probiotics are species of health promoting bacteria that we require for proper digestion of food and for immune defense against illness promoting bacteria, viruses and fungi. The term “probiotic” derives from Latin and Greek, meaning “for life”. The World Health Organization has defined probiotics as: live “micro-organisms” which when administered in adequate amounts confer a health benefit on the host. In fact, to have optimal health we need to be home to over 100 trillion of these health-promoting bacteria! That’s 10 times the amount of cells you have in your entire body!
Having the proper probiotic bacteria in your digestive system is essential for your health and wellbeing, and being deficient can lead to severe health problems. Intestinal microflora (probiotics) promote balanced gastrointestinal function and are essential for many metabolic requirements such as synthesizing vitamins and short chain fatty acids and digesting fiber and proteins. Probiotic bactieria are also important for immune function. They directly protect from infection by competing with the unhealthy bacteria, viruses and fungi we are exposed to every day.
Research shows that we now consume one-millionth of the healthy probiotic bacteria that we did before pesticides, herbicides and industrial farming. Much of our healthy bacteria are destroyed by eating sugars, grains, and by consuming alcohol, antibiotics, and other prescription drugs. The North American diet is dangerously deficient in probiotic bacteria. This deficiency is implicated as a causal factor in alarming numbers of preventable illnesses from infancy to old age.
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