RELAX a Painful Tight Trapezius Muscle in Neck Fast: Exercises, Stretche...

What is Reflexology?

Reflexology is an ancient and natural healing process that dates back at least 5,000 years to Egyptian and Oriental cultures. Some call it a kin to Acupuncture because specific points and target areas guide practitioners of both techniques. However, Acupuncture incorporates the use of fine needles applied to the entire body, whereas Reflexology does not use needles and concentrates on the feet. Reflexology can also be performed on the hands and ears.

The science of Reflexology considers the feet to be mini-maps of the human body, with each organ, gland, and part of the body linked to a corresponding reflex area or point in the foot. By targeting a certain area or point, Reflexology speeds relief to the corresponding part of the body.

A Reflexologist can work on different parts of the feet to facilitate healing for individual conditions, however, it is desirable to work on all areas to put the entire body into balance. Some examples of how Reflexology assists in healing, or simply alleviating specific pain or discomfort, are as follows:

Condition: Menstrual cramps Area(s) of the foot a Reflexologist would concentrate on: Ankle Top of the Foot Inner Heel

Corresponding area in the body to these points in the foot: Reproductive Organs

Condition: Back, Shoulder & Neck Tension

Area(s) of the foot a Reflexologist would concentrate on: Inside Edge of Foot

Corresponding area in the body to these points in the foot: Spine

Condition: Digestive Problems Area(s) of the foot a Reflexologist would concentrate on: Center of Arch

Corresponding area in the body to these points in the foot: Large and Small Intestines By helping the body self-regulate and balance itself, Reflexology has a unique capacity to relieve stress buildup. Beyond the specific results that have been reported-relief from migraines, constipation, colds/flu symptoms, back/neck pain, digestive problems-Reflexology creates an overall calm that seems to envelop the body, allowing the body and mind to decompress and release energy flow. As a result, the body experiences greater stamina and energy, enhanced productivity and creativity, and emotional equilibrium. Clients with chronic problems such as allergies, chemical dependencies, and weight management issues also report significant improvement.

Is Reflexology a medical treatment? No. Reflexology is not a medical treatment, nor is it a foot massage. Rather, Reflexology is a distinct system of natural healing. It is both a science that requires study, sound technique and practiced skills, and an art that must be approached with dedication and patience.

Does Reflexology hurt? It is rare that a client reports pain during a Reflexology session. Twenty-six bones, 56 ligaments, 38 muscles, and 7,000 nerves make up each foot, therefore there is a lot of territory stimulated during a session. The sensations experienced during a Reflexology session are felt in the feet, not in the corresponding organs, glands or body parts. However, it is common for a client to feel sore in various parts of his/her body 1-2 days after a session. The reason for the soreness is because toxins are released from the feet during a session and often it takes the body's own elimination system some time to flush them from the body. An open dialogue between client and therapist is encouraged so that the client gets the most out of his/her session.

Who uses Reflexology today? Reflexology is easy to learn and yet so powerful. It has grown so popular in recent years that surgeons and other medical doctors, chiropractors, podiatrists, dentist, nurses, midwives, physical therapists, occupational therapists and massage therapists use it as a complimentary modality. To illustrate how it can be used in conjunction with medical practices, imagine the following scenario: A pregnant woman has gone into labor. Although some of the pain she experiences can be treated with modern pharmaceuticals, she still suffers from pain and discomfort in her lower back and neck. In order to help relieve her neck/back pain, Reflexology is performed on her feet, specifically to the inside edges-a very non-invasive treatment to an internal problem. There are no needles and nothing needs to be exposed other than her feet. In just on hour, she feels a renewed sense of calm and her neck/back pain has subsided, allowing her to focus on the miracle of childbirth! In addition, many interested lay people choose to learn Reflexology to help reduce stress in their everyday lives, or in the lives of friends and family members.

Is Reflexology safe? Reflexology safe to practice on persons of all ages, including children and seniors, and regular sessions have been known to assist in various chronic conditions such as diabetes, cancer, addictions, terminally ill, and obesity.



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7 Foods That Reduce Inflammation Naturally

Do you or someone you love suffer from inflammation and the pain that comes with it? If so, I'm happy to share with you a little of what I have learned through my journey to heal my inflammation. I will share with you 7 foods that reduce inflammation naturally.

  Before I share some of the secrets I have found, it is important to know what inflammation is. So, what is inflammation?

Inflammation is part of the biological response of vascular tissues to harmful stimuli. These stimuli could be damaged cells, pathogens, or irritants. Inflammation is a protective attempt by your body to remove the detrimental stimuli and to start the healing process. Infections and wounds would never heal without inflammation. Symptoms of inflammation can include swelling, pain, redness, and restriction in movement.

Inflammation can be acute or chronic. Chronic inflammation is prolonged inflammation. It leads to a progressive shift in the type of cells existing at the site of inflammation and is characterized by concurring destruction and healing of the tissue from the inflammatory process. It can cause a load of diseases, such as arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, periodontitis, hay fever, cancer, inflammatory bowel diseases, hypersensitivities, diabetes, stroke, heart disease, acne, celiac disease, autoimmune diseases, asthma, etc. So for that reason, the body closely regulates inflammation.

It is important to reduce inflammation not just because of the pain that it causes you, but also because chronic inflammation is very detrimental to the body. Unlike acute inflammation, where the immune system responds to injury or infection by activating inflammatory chemicals that fight abnormal substances, chronic inflammation isn't beneficial for the body.

The foods you choose to eat can help reduce and prevent inflammation. Foods reduce inflammation naturally, so if you want to get rid of your inflammation naturally, then read on! Below I will share with you 7 foods that reduce inflammation naturally. These foods are called anti-inflammatory foods.

Berries

Goji berries are one of the first foods I choose to eat to rid myself of my horrible inflammation pain, and I noticed a difference within weeks. Goji berries are very high in antioxidants, so they are a great anti-inflammatory along with other wonderful qualities. Blueberries are full of antioxidants and high in phytonutrients. Phytonutrients give anti-inflammatory protection against many diseases. Other types of berries such as raspberries, blackberries, strawberries and cranberries are also high in antioxidants.

Papaya

Papain is a protein-digesting enzyme found in papaya. Papain, along with other nutrients such as vitamin E and C, helps to reduce inflammation and improves digestion. If you are interested in foods that reduce inflammation, and you are a tropical fruit fan, then this is a perfect food for you to eat.

Pineapple

Pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme that aids in the healing of indigestion, sports injury, trauma and other kinds of swelling and inflammation. Extracts of bromelain are used in various natural anti-inflammatory supplements for arthritis.

Spices

Turmeric is a spice with high anti-inflammatory qualities. Add a teaspoon to your diet each day. Some ways to include turmeric into your diet would be to add it to soups, sprinkling it on scrambled eggs, mixing it into sauces, or salad dressings. Ginger is a relative of turmeric that is also revered internationally for its anti-inflammatory qualities. If you want to reduce inflammation naturally, then try incorporating these spices in your next meals.

Kelp

Kelp contains fucoidan, a kind of carbohydrate that is anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidative. Kombu, arame, and wakame are a few types of kelp that can be bought at the grocery store. Kelp has a high fiber content so it also helps to make your feel full and promotes weight loss. Get organic kelp from unpolluted waters.

Spinach

Spinach is a dark green leafy vegetable that is a high source of anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative flavonoids and carotenoids. It contains vitamin A, B, B, C, E, K, iron, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and folate. Make sure to buy organic spinach. Non-organic spinach is sprayed with pesticides and you don't want to be putting more toxins into your body, because that will increase your inflammation. Vegetables, especially dark leafy vegetables are great for decreases inflammation. Choose dark green or brightly colored vegetables.

Broccoli

Broccoli contains anti-inflammatory phytonutrients that help the body to get rid of carcinogenic compounds. It is also a highly nutritious vegetable. Cauliflower is a relative of broccoli, which contains similar components that aid the body's detoxification.

I hope you have found this list of foods that reduce inflammation helpful. Start eating some of these foods, and see what happens. If you already eat some of them, try eating more. The more you eat of these foods, the more you should see a reduction in your inflammation and the pain that goes with it. Here's to a new you... inflammation and pain-free!



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Psychic Abilities For Health and Healing

We've all heard of people who have "a gift". That "gift" is the unique ability to tune in to one's intuition at a higher frequency than the general population. Often these individuals call themselves psychics, intuitive readers, and metaphysical channelers, just to name a few. The amazing thing is that they aren't unique or special in any other way than they cultivated their gifts. They tuned in to their inner life and discovered that by acknowledging the gift and working to make the messages, the frequencies, and the volume louder they could have deeper understandings and insights into life's mysteries.

Is it possible for you to become psychic? Well what if you weren't psychic but you simply paid more attention to your life? I'm not talking about the typical things like are you hot or cold, but more important things like when your body or your emotions try and give you guidance... would that be important to you?

When facing a chronic or life-threatening illness every opportunity that leads to personal understanding becomes another foot soldier in your battle for health and healing. It's your secret weapon in wrestling your illness to the ground; kind of take no prisoners approach to wellness. Your ability to pay attention will catch the attention of others because they will assume you're psychic when actually you're a finely tuned instrument that accepts, acknowledges and makes decisions based on your deepest intuitions. It's a gift that can't be denied so don't deny it...cultivate it!

Developing your "psychic" abilities or your highly sophisticated inner radar system, you engage in a dialogue between mind, body, and spirit. You provide your cells with the spiritual energy to fortify itself while focusing on your healing process. This practice gives you the knowledge that so many are looking for, that "secret" to health and healing that many believe to be out of arms length but sits nestled in your heart and soul.

This is one more arena where a bit of spiritual elbow grease is required. Paying attention takes work because we're a culture that lives on perfecting distraction. Developing the capacity to sit with uncertainty, emotional pain, and maybe even a bit of discomfort is at the forefront of your "psychic" adventure. Allow yourself to grow into your spiritual paws and allow the healing to begin!

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Selecting the Right Running Shoes

Selecting the right running shoe is essential to make your running experience more enjoyable and pain-free. The type of shoe you choose depends a lot upon whether you do recreational, regular or competitive running; indoor, road, or cross country running; as well as any physical conditions that may have. You should certainly consult with the sales staff (and possibly with a sports trainer or physician) to identify the right type of shoe for your situation. You may have to experiment with different brands and types of shoes to find ones that meet your needs.

Over the years I have learned, sometimes the hard way, about the importance of running with proper footwear. Whenever I have pain in my feet, legs, or knees, I start with the basics - the shoes! How old are they? Do the shoes fit properly and have adequate cushioning, traction, and stability? This article describes my experiences with various issues caused by my running shoes. I hope this may give you insight and information to help you with problems you may have right now. Regardless, you should always consult with your physician about any continuing pain you experience as a result of running.

Shoe size is the most important criteria. You need to buy shoes at least a half-size larger than your regular shoes. You should also make sure they are wide enough. Why? On landing, your foot absorbs the force of the impact by expanding in both length and width. If the shoe is too small, the impact force is not absorbed properly and instead is transmitted up the leg.
When I experienced tendonitis in the left knee, the specialist I consulted explained the pain is caused by the impact of the foot being transmitted up leg to irritate the tendons in the knee. Some runners are prone to this condition. The doctor prescribed a pain reliever and a Cho-Pat strap worn just below the kneecap to moderate the force on the patellar tendon. It helped the symptoms but did not solve the real problem.
I had recently purchased new shoes that were a good brand with adequate cushioning. At the time the size seemed large enough. As an experiment, I tried running in my old shoes and discovered that my new shoes were too small! On impact, my left toe (my left is the bigger foot) was pushing up against the front of the shoe. I bought shoes a half-size larger and the tendonitis went away!
Another issue related to shoe size is getting the tension of the laces correct. I found that if my laces were tied too tightly I would get pains in the ankles, shins, and/or knees, especially if I laced the last eyelet at the top. It took a few tries but I eventually got the laces adjusted so that they were loose enough to run yet the shoes stayed on my feet.
Shoe cushioning is the second most important criteria. Shock absorbency is provided by the sole and may also include air pockets, springs, or gel pads. If you run on indoor tracks or cross country you may be able to get away with less cushioning, but running on hard surfaces will tell you after a few runs if the shoes have sufficient cushioning. Some running and cross country shoes (even when new) do not have adequate cushioning for me.

Also running shoes lose their ability over time to absorb the shock of running. As your shoes age you get used to their feel and it is sometimes difficult to identify the point at which they should be replaced. For the type of running I do, I replace my shoes after about 18 months.

Another factor related to shoe cushioning is the stiffness of the soles. Stiff soled shoes may add spring to your step but for some runners (like me) it magnifies the shock, just like running in bare feet on concrete or the beach at Daytona. When you are buying shoes, flex the soles with your hands to feel the difference.
The price of the shoe is an important indicator of quality. This is where your type of running is also a factor. If you are a recreational runner, you may be able to get by with a cheaper shoe. But remember, you do get what you pay for. Competitive runners usually require top of the line shoes. I run about 10-12 miles per week and buy mid-level shoes from only a couple of manufacturers simply because I started with these brands and have had good experience with their products. Through experimentation, you too will find the brand and style that suits you best.

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