Dennis Newhook RMT, CYT
Headaches are among the most common complaints we see at Lifewise, affecting both men and women, young to old. While some headaches are the result of underlying medical conditions, the majority of headaches, known as tension headaches, result from our busy lifestyles. Muscle tension in the shoulders and neck contribute to most headaches. These factors can be easily treated by paying more attention to posture, stretching, and drinking enough water. Prolonged computer use leading to poor sitting posture and strained eyes is another major contributor to tension headaches. Beyond improving your posture and increasing exercise, improving your sleep and treating any jaw or TMJ (temporomandibular joint) dysfunction can greatly relieve headache symptoms.
Some people suffer with migraine headaches - which are poorly understood and experts have yet to agree on one concrete definition or cause. Two theories include the vascular model (often treated with vasoconstricting drugs) and the neurogenic model (affecting pain-sensitive nerves from the trigeminal nerve and the upper neck). The neurogenic model is supported by studies that have shown chiropractic adjustments to be helpful in relieving migraine symptoms. Migraines are often accompanied by auras, light/scent sensitivities, nausea, vomiting, and irritability.
Some headaches accompany more serious conditions or result from medication errors or side-effects. If a headache follows an acute head trauma and is accompanied with confusion, fever, or changes in vision be sure to seek immediate medical advice.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Facts about Acupuncture Needles
JoAnn Alafriz, BSc, Dipl ST, Dipl Ac
Acupuncture is defined as a healing modality whereby fine needles are inserted into specific points on the body. These needles can induce positive changes in your health and well-being. Your Acupuncturist should consider certain factors in choosing these needles.
The quality of the needles is of the utmost importance. Manufacturing facilities with strict quality control must ensure proper packaging and sterilization. All packages must come with a lot number and an expiry date. They must be stored in a cool, dry space and handled with proper Clean Needle Technique.
Needles are made with surgical stainless steel. They are strong yet thin, filiform and flexible. Needles with a low nickel content helps to reduce the reaction of those with metal allergies.
The gauge and thickness of the needle is also taken into consideration. With each insertion, the Acupuncturist senses “de Qi”, or the arrival of Qi. The client will feel it as a heaviness or dull ache. The smaller the gauge the more sensitive the therapist is at finding de Qi. A smaller gauge is also used for more sensitive people and points on the body.
Acupuncture needles should be used ONCE only. After the removal of each needle, it is placed in a bio-hazard container and disposed of properly. The safety of both client and therapist is always at the forefront.
Acupuncture is defined as a healing modality whereby fine needles are inserted into specific points on the body. These needles can induce positive changes in your health and well-being. Your Acupuncturist should consider certain factors in choosing these needles.
The quality of the needles is of the utmost importance. Manufacturing facilities with strict quality control must ensure proper packaging and sterilization. All packages must come with a lot number and an expiry date. They must be stored in a cool, dry space and handled with proper Clean Needle Technique.
Needles are made with surgical stainless steel. They are strong yet thin, filiform and flexible. Needles with a low nickel content helps to reduce the reaction of those with metal allergies.
The gauge and thickness of the needle is also taken into consideration. With each insertion, the Acupuncturist senses “de Qi”, or the arrival of Qi. The client will feel it as a heaviness or dull ache. The smaller the gauge the more sensitive the therapist is at finding de Qi. A smaller gauge is also used for more sensitive people and points on the body.
Acupuncture needles should be used ONCE only. After the removal of each needle, it is placed in a bio-hazard container and disposed of properly. The safety of both client and therapist is always at the forefront.
Missing Magnesium?
Karen Baker, BSc, DC
Magnesium is an extremely important mineral, whose value for good health is just starting to be recognized. This essential nutrient plays an important role in the generation of cellular energy as well as the repair and regeneration of skeletal muscle and nerve cells. It is necessary for healthy bones and teeth, for controlling blood pressure, regulating calcium channels in the heart, and promoting sleep.
Magnesium deficiency can affect virtually every organ system of the body, and has been linked to many symptoms including: muscle twitches and cramps, back aches, neck pain, tension headaches and TMJ dysfunction. Other symptoms include constipation, menstrual cramps, insomnia, anxiety, PMS, numbness, tingling, and chest tightness.
While the recommended daily intake (RDI) is 310 to 420mg per day, most people are only getting about 175 mg daily. Magnesium can be found in lentils, dark green vegetables, seafood, walnuts, peanuts and almonds. One easy way and proven way to increase magnesium levels in the body, is to take an Epsom Salt Bath (Magnesium Sulfate).
The consumption of alcohol, use of diuretics, diarrhea, presence of fluoride, and high levels of zinc and vitamin D increase the body’s need for magnesium.
Recent research is exploring the therapeutic effects of its use in treating Diabetes Mellitus, Hypertension, Migraines, and Osteoporosis.
Magnesium is an extremely important mineral, whose value for good health is just starting to be recognized. This essential nutrient plays an important role in the generation of cellular energy as well as the repair and regeneration of skeletal muscle and nerve cells. It is necessary for healthy bones and teeth, for controlling blood pressure, regulating calcium channels in the heart, and promoting sleep.
Magnesium deficiency can affect virtually every organ system of the body, and has been linked to many symptoms including: muscle twitches and cramps, back aches, neck pain, tension headaches and TMJ dysfunction. Other symptoms include constipation, menstrual cramps, insomnia, anxiety, PMS, numbness, tingling, and chest tightness.
While the recommended daily intake (RDI) is 310 to 420mg per day, most people are only getting about 175 mg daily. Magnesium can be found in lentils, dark green vegetables, seafood, walnuts, peanuts and almonds. One easy way and proven way to increase magnesium levels in the body, is to take an Epsom Salt Bath (Magnesium Sulfate).
The consumption of alcohol, use of diuretics, diarrhea, presence of fluoride, and high levels of zinc and vitamin D increase the body’s need for magnesium.
Recent research is exploring the therapeutic effects of its use in treating Diabetes Mellitus, Hypertension, Migraines, and Osteoporosis.
Friday, June 19, 2009
June is Patient Appreciation Month!
All of us at Lifewise would like to express our gratitude to our loyal patients and students for their continued support.
For the entire month of June enjoy:
- Discounts on All Products
- A Raffle for Great Prizes
- Refer A Friend Promotion
- & more...
For the entire month of June enjoy:
- Discounts on All Products
- A Raffle for Great Prizes
- Refer A Friend Promotion
- & more...
June 2009
If you have visited the office lately you will likely have noticed some new faces. I would like to extend a warm welcome to our two newest staff members at the front desk, Jessica Gregory & Neive Lenihan. The girls have been working hard to “learn the ropes”, and are eager to ensure your every visit to Lifewise is a positive experience, from beginning to end. Be sure to pop into the office, during the month of June - you might even win something!
Yours In Health,
Dr. Karen Baker
Yours In Health,
Dr. Karen Baker
Soak Your Stress Away
Dennis Newhook RMT, CYT
Stressed? Sore muscles? Try this simple treatment at home...
Epsom Salt, named after the South England town where the salt was first obtained, is comprised of magnesium and sulphate. It is widely prescribed to ease stress, reduce headaches, promote sleep, ease muscle tension, and aid detoxification. Adding the salts to your bath water following exercise or massage treatment can help reduce delayed onset muscle soreness and speed tissue repair. Epsom salts can be purchased from most pharmacies, department stores, or health food stores. Keep the following tips in mind to ensure your safety and enjoy your bath! 2-4 cups of salts for a full bath (do not add soaps, oils, or other bath products) Soak for a minimum of 10 min, up to 25 min Sip cool water while bathing (plastic cup is safest in case you drop it) and keep a cold facecloth on the back of your neck or forehead to avoid overheating Allow the water to drain from the tub before you stand up, and rinse yourself with cool to warm water afterwards If possible, do not bathe while you are home alone If you have a diagnosed heart condition or high blood pressure, it is recommended to bathe with your heart above the level of the water and with a cold towel around your neck Shorter durations and lower water temperatures can increase your tolerance to the treatment
If you have further questions or concerns, consult your healthcare professional.
*References: “Heat & Cold as Ty” by Laurel Fowlie; Epsom Salt Council (www.epsomsaltcouncil.org)
Stressed? Sore muscles? Try this simple treatment at home...
Epsom Salt, named after the South England town where the salt was first obtained, is comprised of magnesium and sulphate. It is widely prescribed to ease stress, reduce headaches, promote sleep, ease muscle tension, and aid detoxification. Adding the salts to your bath water following exercise or massage treatment can help reduce delayed onset muscle soreness and speed tissue repair. Epsom salts can be purchased from most pharmacies, department stores, or health food stores. Keep the following tips in mind to ensure your safety and enjoy your bath! 2-4 cups of salts for a full bath (do not add soaps, oils, or other bath products) Soak for a minimum of 10 min, up to 25 min Sip cool water while bathing (plastic cup is safest in case you drop it) and keep a cold facecloth on the back of your neck or forehead to avoid overheating Allow the water to drain from the tub before you stand up, and rinse yourself with cool to warm water afterwards If possible, do not bathe while you are home alone If you have a diagnosed heart condition or high blood pressure, it is recommended to bathe with your heart above the level of the water and with a cold towel around your neck Shorter durations and lower water temperatures can increase your tolerance to the treatment
If you have further questions or concerns, consult your healthcare professional.
*References: “Heat & Cold as Ty” by Laurel Fowlie; Epsom Salt Council (www.epsomsaltcouncil.org)
Healing Foods for Liver Qi Stagnation
JoAnn Alafriz, BSc, Dipl ST, Dipl Ac
According to Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) many of us suffer from Liver Qi Stagnation; meaning, our Qi (vital energy) is not flowing smoothly through the channels of our body. The Liver is responsible for moving the Qi.
Liver Qi Stagnation can manifest itself as: irritability, depression, moodiness, sour regurgitation, feeling "wound up", abdominal distension, irregular periods, painful periods and pre-menstrual tension.
In TCM, the following foods and herbs are recommended to get the Liver Qi moving:
Lemon, lime, grapefruit, mustard greens, watercress, spinach, swiss chard, kale, parsley, cardamom, cumin, fennel, mint, lemon balm, chamomile, peony root, dandelion root, strawberry, peach, cherry, plum,cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, brussel sprouts, asparagus, amaranth, quinoa, millet, seaweed, & tofu.
Foods and herbs that congest Liver function, and are best to AVOID, include:
Intoxicants, alcohol, coffee, highly processed and refined foods, foods high in saturated fats (mammal meat, cheese and eggs), hydrogenated or poor quality foods (margarine, refined and rancid oils), fried and excessively spicy foods, sugar and sweets, excesses nuts and seeds.
*JoAnn is available on Wednesdays and Saturdays at Lifewise – feel free to drop by if you have more detailed questions.
According to Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) many of us suffer from Liver Qi Stagnation; meaning, our Qi (vital energy) is not flowing smoothly through the channels of our body. The Liver is responsible for moving the Qi.
Liver Qi Stagnation can manifest itself as: irritability, depression, moodiness, sour regurgitation, feeling "wound up", abdominal distension, irregular periods, painful periods and pre-menstrual tension.
In TCM, the following foods and herbs are recommended to get the Liver Qi moving:
Lemon, lime, grapefruit, mustard greens, watercress, spinach, swiss chard, kale, parsley, cardamom, cumin, fennel, mint, lemon balm, chamomile, peony root, dandelion root, strawberry, peach, cherry, plum,cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, brussel sprouts, asparagus, amaranth, quinoa, millet, seaweed, & tofu.
Foods and herbs that congest Liver function, and are best to AVOID, include:
Intoxicants, alcohol, coffee, highly processed and refined foods, foods high in saturated fats (mammal meat, cheese and eggs), hydrogenated or poor quality foods (margarine, refined and rancid oils), fried and excessively spicy foods, sugar and sweets, excesses nuts and seeds.
*JoAnn is available on Wednesdays and Saturdays at Lifewise – feel free to drop by if you have more detailed questions.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Introducing...
We are very excited to have recently added Acupuncture and Shiatsu Therapy to the growing list of services offered at Lifewise. I would like to extend a warm welcome to the latest addition to our Lifewise Team, JoAnn Alafriz.
JoAnn completed her Shiatsu and Acupuncture Diplomas with high honours from the Shiatsu School of Canada and Acupuncture Institute. In addition to her practice, she is currently working as an instructor and supervisor at the Shiatsu School of Canada.
JoAnn encourages her patients to tap into the healing power of their bodies to feel their best. Her philosophy that Body Awareness leads to Body Wellness is a perfect fit with what we all believe and teach here at Lifewise.
Yours In Health,
Dr. Karen Baker
JoAnn completed her Shiatsu and Acupuncture Diplomas with high honours from the Shiatsu School of Canada and Acupuncture Institute. In addition to her practice, she is currently working as an instructor and supervisor at the Shiatsu School of Canada.
JoAnn encourages her patients to tap into the healing power of their bodies to feel their best. Her philosophy that Body Awareness leads to Body Wellness is a perfect fit with what we all believe and teach here at Lifewise.
Yours In Health,
Dr. Karen Baker
Acupuncture 101
JoAnn Alafriz, BSc, Dipl ST, Dipl Ac
Acupuncture is a Chinese healing modality with over 5,000 years of history. It is a holistic style of treatment whereby fine needles are used to balance and improve well being. Many contemporary scientific studies demonstrate Acupuncture’s positive effect on many disorders.
The premise of Acupuncture is that Qi (vital energy) flows through channels of the body. When Qi is blocked or deficient, discomfort is felt. The goal: to rebalance the body and ensure the smooth flow of Qi.
Acupuncture needles are very thin and are inserted with a quick, light motion, with little discomfort. The needles are retained anywhere from 20 – 45 minutes. You can expect to feel a sense of relaxation and ease that will last for some time after treatment.
During the initial intake, various aspects of your health and habits are reviewed. A tongue and pulse diagnosis is taken (they reflect the health of the different organ systems). Based on the diagnosis, specific acupuncture points are selected to treat the condition at hand.
Clean needle technique in Acupuncture is a practiced and follows western medical standards of care. Single-use, pre-sterilized, needles are used.
The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncturists of Ontario is forming. This College will fully regulate the practice of Acupuncture in the public interest.
Insurance coverage for Acupuncture is included in many extended health care plans.
I look forward to meeting with you.
Acupuncture is a Chinese healing modality with over 5,000 years of history. It is a holistic style of treatment whereby fine needles are used to balance and improve well being. Many contemporary scientific studies demonstrate Acupuncture’s positive effect on many disorders.
The premise of Acupuncture is that Qi (vital energy) flows through channels of the body. When Qi is blocked or deficient, discomfort is felt. The goal: to rebalance the body and ensure the smooth flow of Qi.
Acupuncture needles are very thin and are inserted with a quick, light motion, with little discomfort. The needles are retained anywhere from 20 – 45 minutes. You can expect to feel a sense of relaxation and ease that will last for some time after treatment.
During the initial intake, various aspects of your health and habits are reviewed. A tongue and pulse diagnosis is taken (they reflect the health of the different organ systems). Based on the diagnosis, specific acupuncture points are selected to treat the condition at hand.
Clean needle technique in Acupuncture is a practiced and follows western medical standards of care. Single-use, pre-sterilized, needles are used.
The College of Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncturists of Ontario is forming. This College will fully regulate the practice of Acupuncture in the public interest.
Insurance coverage for Acupuncture is included in many extended health care plans.
I look forward to meeting with you.
Why Iyengar Yoga?
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.
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.
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