Alternative Health Solutions of NJ & The Jersey Shore Wellness Network

Superb Spaghetti Squash

2012-01-22T13:55:00.004-05:00

Superb Spaghetti Squash

Ingredients

2 small – medium spaghetti squash
2 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 1/2 tablespoons finely chopped mixed soft herbs, such as basil, chives, chervil, parsley and sage
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1/8 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Grated Parmesan cheese – Eye ball it 2 taste
Jar organic spaghetti sauce
Mozzarella cheese

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

Using a sharp knife, cut the squash in half lengthwise and place, cut side down, in a baking dish. Add enough water to come 1/2-inch up the sides of the baking dish and cover with aluminum foil. Bake for 45 minutes, until the squash is easily pierced with a paring knife. Turn squash over and cover with foil again and continue to cook another 15 minutes, until the squash is very tender. Remove from the oven, uncover, and allow to cool slightly. Using a spoon, remove the seeds and discard. Using a fork, gently pull the strands of squash away from the peel and place the squash strands into a mixing bowl. Reserve the shell.

Heat a skillet. Add the olive oil, spaghetti squash, herbs, cheese, salt and pepper and toss thoroughly but gently to heat and combine. Return the “spaghetti” to shell. Top with organic spaghetti sauce. Sprinkle on mozzarella cheese and rebake till cheese is melted thoroughly.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2012

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

The Jersey Shore Wellness Network

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://http://www.soulsationalfestival.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://www.greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY!

Life with energy, passion, and joy.

2012-01-03T09:28:00.002-05:00

The more you look up, the more things will be looking up.

The more positive you are in a physical sense, the more positive your whole life is. Your mind and your body work together. It is difficult to be mentally and spiritually joyful and positive when you have a negative, lifeless physiology.

Conversely, when you are smiling, standing or sitting up straight, looking upward, and breathing deeply, it is almost impossible to sustain negative attitude. Act positive physically and you will be positive. You’ll see the good things around you. You’ll interact better with other people.

Think about it, who would you rather deal with, someone who is slumped over and looking down at the ground, or someone who is sincerely cheerful, smiling, bright eyed, looking up, and full of positive energy.

Try it right now. Experience the contrast for yourself. First, look down, slump over, put a scowl on your face, and say “things are terrible.” That feels awful, doesn’t it? Now, sit up, look upward, put a big smile on your face and say with excitement and passion “this is a great day and I feel fantastic.” Notice how much better you feel? It really works.

Sit up straight, throw your shoulders back, take a deep breath, look up -- live your life with energy, passion, and joy.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2012

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

The Jersey Shore Wellness Network

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://http://www.soulsationalfestival.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://www.greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY!

A New Happy Year 2012 - It's Yours To Make GREAT!

2012-01-01T10:07:00.007-05:00

This new year take a new plunge into the ocean of hope and optimism and free yourself from all your grudges, sadness.

2012 is here. What will it bring for you and your loved ones? Opportunity. Every day of the coming year will be filled with opportunity and possibilities. Every day will give you a chance to make your life count, to make a difference, to grow, to learn, to achieve, to be the person you were meant to be.

Today you stand at the threshold of a new year. A blank slate ready to be filled by you. The New Year makes no promises, and has no guarantees other than this -- every day will be filled with challenges and opportunities. It is up to you to recognize the opportunities, to see the possibilities, and to overcome the challenges. And by so doing, your life, and the world around you, will be enriched.

You don’t have to wish for a Happy New Year. You have the power to make it a truly happy year, a year of fulfillment and accomplishment for you. A year that will lead to many other great years.

This is your year. It starts today. You’ve been put in charge of it. You’ve been given complete control. It is fresh and new, waiting to be broken in. How it turns out is now up to you.

There are no limitations on how you can use this year. And don’t worry, you’ll find plenty of opportunities distributed throughout its days and moments.

The clock is running now. Your year has already begun. Though it seems today that you have plenty of time, the weeks will pass quickly, so take care not to squander them. Yes, there’s plenty of time, but not enough to waste.

This is your year. It’s not a test or a trial run. It’s the real thing, and it is here. It is a magnificent opportunity, and one which will not wait. This is your year. See it. Imagine it. Live it. Enjoy it. Make it great. There’s opportunity around every bend. Have fun. It’s going to be a great ride!

“Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don’t resist them – that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like.” ~ Lao Tzu

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2012

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

The Jersey Shore Wellness Network

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://http://www.soulsationalfestival.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://www.greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY!

Roasted Cauliflower and Butternut Squash Soup

2011-10-07T16:21:00.002-04:00

Roasted Cauliflower and Butternut Squash Soup

Ingredients:

1 medium/large Butternut Squash, peeled, cubed
1 head of Cauliflower, washed, chopped
1 bulb of garlic - whole
3 medium carrots, peeled, chopped
1 medium Onion, diced
5-6 cups Vegetable Broth, chicken broth, or Water
1 tsp All-Spice
1/2 tsp Nutmeg
1 tsp Ground Thyme
1/2 tsp Cumin
1 tsp Ground Cloves
1/2 tbsp Sea Salt
Salt and Pepper to Taste
2 tbsp Olive Oil
1/2 cup Almond Milk

Directions:

1) Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
2) In a large bowl, toss the butternut squash, cauliflower, carrots with a tablespoon of olive oil and a little sea salt. Spread the vegetables on a large cookie sheet and roast for about 15-25 minutes till fork tender.
3) Add the other tablespoon of olive oil to a heavy soup pot and add the onions. Saute until the onions are translucent.
4) Add the roasted veggies to the pot and cover with the broth or water. Bring to a boil. Cover and turn down the heat. Simmer for approximately 20 minutes.
5) Remove the soup from the heat and cool briefly. Now with an immersion blender (or you can transfer to a regular blender) blend the soup until all of the large chunks are gone. You can continue to blend to your soup until it’s at a consistency you like.
6) Place the pot back on the heat and add the spices. Adjust the flavors to your taste. Simmer for 5 minutes.
7) Stir in the almond milk and warm through.
8) Garnish with tablespoon of Greek yogurt and a few roasted pumpkin seeds.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2011

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

The Jersey Shore Wellness Network

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://http://www.soulsationalfestival.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://www.greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY!

I am a Gorgeous Green Goddess! Juice Recipe

2011-08-23T20:29:00.005-04:00

I am a Gorgeous Green Goddess! Juice Recipe

Vegetable Juice is sweeping the nation, and I am happily surfing the big green wave!

Ingredients:
6-8 stalks of Celery, 8-10 leaves of Kale, 1 Lemon, 1 Apple, 1 1/2 inch piece of fresh Ginger,1 clove of garlic, 8 large Romaine Lettuce leaves, 1 cup of parsley, 2 cups fresh Spinach,2-3 Carrots,3 Cucumbers, 1-2 cups of green grapes.

Green Juice is a super shot of concentrated nutrition. You get all the goodness from fresh fruits and vegetables – the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytochemicals – stripped from the fiber so they’re instantly absorbed and effortlessly assimilated. Green Juice digests in about 10 minutes. How long would it take you to chew 2 carrots, a cucumber, and an entire head of greens? You’d fill up on bulk before you could finish it! Veggie juice lets you consume more vegetables, and thus more nutrients, without feeling too full too fast.

The health benefits of juicing are truly unparalleled, which is why it’s one of the most popular healing/ disease-curing modalities. Add fresh juice to your daily regimen and watch your body begin to sing! It works wonders on each and every internal system.

Green Juice gives the ultimate energy! The deep down vitality gifted by green juice comes from the maximum nutrient profile and the easily accessed natural fuel – glucose. Each of your cells gets a straight shot of strength for sustained, slow burning stamina. My green juice keeps me going all afternoon!

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2011

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

The Jersey Shore Wellness Network

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://http://www.soulsationalfestival.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://www.greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY!

YOU B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L

2011-08-20T15:58:00.003-04:00

YOU B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L

Be the most gorgeous you. Stand in front of the mirror and find five things that you love about yourself.

Emit positivity. When you feel like putting yourself down, stop and find 2 good things to say instead.

Assess yourself for change. Make small goals to change areas in your life.

Uniquely you. There is no one like you. No one will ever be you. You are different from everyone else. There is something that you have that no one on this earth will ever have. Do you know what that something is?

Take back control. This is your life.

Inspiration required. Find a man/ woman who can be this inspiration to you, that will encourage you to move towards your goals.

Fun time is your time. Are you actually doing what makes you happy?

Undo the damage done by unhealthy habits and stick to it consistently for 3-6 weeks

Love yourself and others. Give what you want to receive.

B.E.A.U.T.I.F.U.L is the fullness of your unique beauty that begins with you and impacts those around you. Love you and aim to give back.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2011

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsationalfestival.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY!

Soul Good For U - Chocolate Covered Strawberries 4Ur Valentine !

2011-02-12T16:16:00.004-05:00

On February 14 there are lots of gifts exchanged between people who want to show their affection, respect or love. The National Confectioners Association estimates that 36 million heart-shaped boxes of chocolates will be sold for Valentine’s Day. If you want to indulge your Valentine with chocolate, give chocolate covered strawberries as a more healthful alternative.

Chocolate and strawberries both contain antioxidants, which are thought to improve immune function and lower the risk for infection and cancer. Antioxidants help protect our bodies from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are formed in simple body processes and can increase upon exposure to environmental contaminants such as cigarette smoke, air pollution or chemicals. Free radicals can damage cells and increase the risk for cancer, artery and heart disease, cataracts, diabetes and Alzheimer’s disease.

Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C. Just one-half cup of strawberries provides 50 milligrams of vitamin C. The Recommended Dietary Allowance for vitamin C is 75 milligrams for women and 90 milligrams for men. Vitamin C helps produce collagen to hold muscles, bones and other tissues together, helps keep blood vessels firm to prevent bruising, helps keep your gums healthy, helps heal cuts and wounds and helps protect your body from infection.

Make sure the strawberries are dipped in dark chocolate. Dark chocolate contains more flavonoids, which are naturally occurring compounds found in plant-based foods. The source of antioxidants in chocolate is flavonoids. Flavonoids may reduce the risk of blood clots and heart disease by expanding the arteries and increasing blood flow.

Dark Chocolate Covered Strawberries

Ingredients
1 – 3.5 ounce dark chocolate bar – I used Green & Black organic dark chocolate
1 – 16 ounce container of strawberries
Note: you will need wax paper

Directions:
Wash and dry the strawberries. Melt chocolate in a small sauce pan on low heat and stir while melting – you must stir as you do not want to burn it. Once chocolate is melted remove from heat. Take a strawberry by the stem and dip in the chocolate and place on wax paper. Continue until you have all your strawberries dipped in chocolate. You can refrigerate or let them sit out till the chocolate gets hard – it does not take long.

Chocolate Coconut Covered Strawberries

For this recipe, you will need:
1/2 cup liquified cocnut oil
1/4 cup raw cacao or carob powder
1/4 cup agave
1/3 cup dried unsweetened coconut
and Fresh Strawberries

In bowl or pan mix together all ingredients, except coconut. Dip ice cold strawberries in chocolate mixture. You may have to dip and let drip a few times until it forms a good thick chocolate coating. After about 30 sec or so the chocolate will form a nice hard shell. When chocolate hardens on strawberries, dip one more time and roll in coconut. Do this to all then put on wax paper and freeze for 15 min.

Yummmoooo Goodness!

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY LOVE AHSNJ

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2011

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Kale Chips - Cajun Style

2011-01-24T20:27:00.003-05:00

Kale Chips - Cajun Style
You need:

2 bunches of kale
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon sea salt
1/6 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder
1/2 teaspoon Onion Powder
2 - 3 Tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350° F.
2. Wash and dry kale. Remove leaves from stems and rip into chip-sized pieces. Place kale in large bowl.
3. Drizzle the olive oil & Vinegar on kale and evenly massage onto leaves. Slowly add salt and other seasonings (or your choice of seasonings) to kale while tossing and massaging in bowl.
4. Spread kale evenly on very lightly coated baking sheet or 2 or on parchment paper on baking sheet. Place in the oven and bake for about 12 minutes. Flip after 5 minutes. Keep your eye on them to make sure they don’t over cook or burn (they can easily).
5. Remove when done and place on paper towels to absorb excess oil.

Yummmoooo Goodness!

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2011

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Bella Belly Bump: Turning Your Breech Baby

2011-01-13T21:02:00.008-05:00

About 4.5% of single baby pregnancies result in a breech (head up instead of head down) presentation. Breech presentations result in an increased number of Caesarean sections. Because a C-section is a major abdominal surgery with associated risks and recovery time it is important to attempt to get the baby into a proper vertex (head down) position. An external cephalic version (an obstetrician manually attempting to turn the baby from the outside) is often attempted but can be very uncomfortable and poses its own risks. There are other popular and effective alternatives available that do not carry the same risks and are much more comfortable that I have suggested over the years.

Be sure to check with your provider before trying any option for turning a breech baby to see if there is any reason why you should not use them.

The Webster Technique is a chiropractic technique that is helpful in allowing babies to get into a proper position. Many people know of it as a "breech turning technique" but it really is about balancing the joints and ligaments of the pelvis to allow the uterus, and therefore the baby, to be in a proper position. A chiropractor who is certified in the Webster Technique will evaluate the woman's sacrum for a subluxation (misalignment) and adjust as necessary. Next, the chiropractor will gently release any tension being held in the round ligaments of the uterus with a gentle pressure at any tight areas. The technique is very gentle and usually very comfortable.

Acupuncture is another option to use to help turn breech babies. Small, thin needles are placed in specific areas to facilitate the turning of the baby. Acupuncture treatments for turning breech babies are typically started between weeks 32 and 34 of pregnancy. Studies have shown that acupuncture alone has about a 70% success rate in turning a breech baby.

Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine practice which involves the use of burning a mugwort stick near a specific place on the pregnant woman's little toe. The moxibustion stimulation of this point (Bladder 67) helps to relax the uterine wall and increase fetal activity. Studies have shown it to have a success rate between 69% and 85%. Patients may be given these sticks to continue the treatment at home multiple times per day.

Breech Tilt - begin at 32-35 weeks gestation. Do 3 times daily for 10-15 minutes each time, when you have an empty stomach, and the baby is active. Prop one end of an ironing board securely on a sofa or chair 12 to 18 inches high (or may use slant board). Lie down, bend knees but keep feet flat on board. Relax, breathe deeply, avoid tensing. May also use pillows on a flat surface to raise hips 12-18" above shoulders. Gravity pushes the baby's head into the fundus, tucks it, and baby can then do a somersault to a vertex position.

Inverted Shoulder Stand- yoga posture, should be done when the baby is the most active, try to hold position for up to 5 minutes at least 2x per day until the baby turns, should be done with assistance for safety.

Pelvic Rocking- pelvic movement, back and forward, side to side, circular (try a hula hoop), spiraling (in a squatting position), figure eight.

Try elephant walking, Like the downward dog position in yoga. Elephant walking is walking on hands and feet instead of knees. As soon as you try it, you will see why it would work! It's very difficult to do, but it definitely helps loosen the baby up and out of the pelvic ring. Some people say they feel the baby turn as soon as they start doing it.

Diet- according to Chinese medicine breech babies are too yin and the mother needs to consume more yang foods (fish, poultry, eggs, red meat, dairy, and miso) and decrease yin foods and products (fruit, ice cream, oil, coffee, sweets, drugs, chemicals, cigarettes, and stress)

Massage & Aromatherapy- use sweet almond oil to massage the belly over the area of the baby’s back using a firm but gentle pressure, massage in the direction you want the baby to turn (Maya abdominal massage or Myofascial release)

Frozen veggies - Place cold frozen veggies on top of babies head. This works well because the baby prefers to move to a warmer position. HEAD DOWN!

Visualizing the baby moving down with the head very deep in your pelvis, several times a day; especially in conjunction with positions and exercises as listed.

Swimming as often as possible. This keeps your body and pelvis loose and relaxed. Do in conjunction with headstand below if you have help.

Get into a warm pool. Walks into the water until up to shoulders. Then dive down to the bottom of the pool. As you are deweighted so is the baby and the heavy part of the baby (the head) will go into the pelvis.

Headstands - with assistance and in a pool frequently as possible.

CD/iPod headphones - place them inside mom's pants toward her pubic bone and play classical music and or the sounds of a heartbeat for 10 minutes 6-8 times a day. (Sometimes babies like to be close to the mothers heartbeat because it is comforting.)

Flashlight - try moving slowly down from the top of the uterus toward your pubic bone while you are in a breech tilt position.

Self-massage - start with your left hand at the bottom of the abdomen and your right hand just above it. Move your hands clockwise around the right side of your tummy. As your right hand reaches the top of your abdomen, slide the left one over your right and move it down the left side of your tummy. Your left hand leads as you come full circle, continuing clockwise. Massage gently as you would to apply lotion. Massage for ten minutes or more up to several times each day.

Clothespin - place on the small toe of each foot at the outside corner of the toenail; sideways so that the toenail and toe pad are stimulated for 30 minutes per day, this is an acupressure point that is a "moving down" point. You can also do this with just finger pressure as you remember to do it.

Motion Sickness band - place with the bead four fingerwidths above the inner ankle bone - another acupressure point that is used for stimulation of the uterus. Do not use this point if you are experiencing any pre-term labor.

Glass of orange or other juice - follow this with a side-lying position with your hips positioned higher than your feet. Babies move more after a sugar high!

Pelvic Tilt- with an ice pack on the top of your tummy on an empty stomach, 10 minutes twice a day. Do this while lying on your back on the floor with knees flexed and feet on the floor with three large pillows placed under your buttocks. Try this in conjunction with headphones and visualization.

Knee-chest position - by kneeling with hips flexed slightly more than 90 degree, but with thighs not pressing against your tummy and your head, shoulders and upper chest are flat on a mattress for 15 minutes every two waking hours for five days.

Belly Relaxing followed by Inversion - Partner places a shawl, sheet, towel or rebozo under mom's hips as she lays on the floor. Lift up on the corners of the cloth and shimmy her from side to side moving your hands up and down to wiggle her belly from side to side. These should be very small movements which mom should find very relaxing. Do this for about 5 minutes. Then mother kneels on the stairway landing. Walk your hands down 2 or 3 stairs into an all fours position; have your partner support your shoulders to balance you. Remain in this position for about 5-10 minutes or as long as comfortable. Also do this on an empty stomach.

Have someone (preferably the father) talk loudly but soothingly to the baby, low on the belly, close to the skin, telling the baby to turn around, to come towards the voice (have also heard that commanding works).

Find every picture of a head-down baby you can find and plaster them all over your house/work, in your purse, and anywhere else you can think of and keep the faith. Your baby will turn! Also, talk to the baby about its motivation for turning around.

Hypnosis with a partner or friend : Use this script –

I'M GOING TO COUNT DOWN NOW FROM 10 TO 0............ I'LL SAY A SENTENCE WITH EACH NUMBER, AND I'D LIKE YOU TO REPEAT EACH SENTENCE TO YOURSELF. EACH TIME YOU REPEAT A SENTENCE, YOU WILL FIND YOURSELF DEEPER RELAXED. JUST ALLOW YOURSELF TO SLIP INTO A DEEP RELAXATION.

10 - I AM NOW READY TO GO INTO A STATE OF DEEP RELAXATION.
9 - WITH EACH COUNT I WILL GO DEEPER INTO RELAXATION
8 - MY ENTIRE BODY IS MORE AND MORE RELAXED
7 - EVERY MUSCLE AND NERVE IN MY BODY DROOPS INTO RELAXATION
6 - MY EYELIDS REMAIN EASILY CLOSED
5 - MY BODY IS IN NATURAL RELAXATION
4 - MY BREATHING IS MORE RHYTHMIC NOW
3 - MY BODY IS SINKING INTO DEEP RELAXATION
2 - ALL TENSION AND STRESS ARE GONE FROM MY BODY AND MIND
1 - MY BODY AND MIND ARE COMPLETELY RELAXED - WORKING IN PERFECT
HARMONY
0 - I AM COMPLETELY RELAXED, BUT INTENSELY FOCUSED ON WHAT IS BEING
SAID

It is now time to visit a wonderful place called the "Hall of Learning". The Hall of Learning is where all limiting thoughts can be eliminated, corrected, and left behind. Where learning takes place for developing new philosophies, new ways of looking at what's going on with you and your life. It is a place where you can take charge of your life and the events in it. Go there now - to the Hall of Learning. See the room in your favorite colors. The temperature of the room is perfectly set as you desire it. There is softly filtered light. To your right, you notice a long hallway that leads to another part of the Hall of Learning. It leads to your "Healing Room" containing the control system of your subconscious. Go down
that hallway. Each step takes you closer and closer to the control system of your subconscious. As you enter this room, you notice that it also has some of your favorite colors on the wall. These are the colors that bring you comfort. This room is also at the perfect temperature with softly filtered light. There is a large cushy chair in the room. Go over and make yourself comfortable in this wonderful chair. Feel yourself relax as your sink into the cushions. To the right is a console with knobs and gauges that control the inner workings of your body. Look at the one that reads "Breathing". Turn the knob until the gauge is set at 10 breaths per minute and your breathing becomes slow and calm. Good. Now look at the gauge that reads "Heartbeat". Turn that knob until the gauge is set at 60 beats per minute and you feel the pace of your heart becoming slower and easier as it would at this perfect resting rate. Now look at the
gauge that reads "Muscles and Fibers". Turn that knob until the gauge is set at soft, loose and relaxed and you feel all the muscles in your body and around your uterus ease into an even deeper relaxation - giving the baby room to make its turn, releasing all inner tension. Good. The last gauge that needs setting is the one that reads "Concentration and Focus". Turn this knob until the gauge reads sharp and you find yourself intensely focused on my voice. Relaxed and focused. It is possible to do both and your mind accepts the suggestions you desire much easier when you are in this place. Very good. You have now set your body perfectly to maintain a deep state of relaxation while maintaining a sharp focus on what is being said. Very good. Now that you are thoroughly relaxed, it is time to talk to your subconscious and to your baby. Thank your subconscious for doing such a good job of holding those lower fibers and muscles of your uterus closed so that your baby would be secure during its development. Growing and developing into this wonderful healthy and happy being that you are so eager to hold... It is now time for your subconscious to assume a new role. The time for the baby to be born is coming close and so, it is time to give new direction to the muscles that have been holding the baby in an upright position. Speaking to the subconscious now - release and relax those uterine muscles just enough so that your baby has the necessary room to turn and make its descent into the vertex, head down position. Direct your muscles now to release only sufficiently and appropriately for the downward turn. In order to allow ________ and the baby to have an easy, smooth birthing, it is time to RELEASE AND ALL LIMITING THOUGHTS OR IMPRINTS THAT STEM FROM KNOWN OR UNKNOWN IMPRESSIONS, INFLUENCES, EXPERIENCES, MEMORIES, PEOPLE, HAPPENINGS OR FEARS that could be standing in the way of an easy vaginal birth for ________. If _________'s subconscious is willing to release these obstacles, please indicate by lifting a finger. Good, then release now any and all limiting thoughts or imprints that stem from known or unknown impressions, influences, experiences, memories, people, happenings and fear. Very good. Your mind, body and baby are now free of any fearful or intrusive thoughts. You are totally free and relaxed. You will not allow these kinds of previously mentioned negative thoughts to plant seeds again. They are now replaced with confidence, assurance and trust in your body's natural birthing abilities. Your birthing will be exactly as nature intended... gentle.... easy.... joyous. Speaking to your muscles now - thank them for helping to support the baby, allowing it to fully develop, and keeping it safe from harm: "This has been your job throughout my pregnancy and you have done well. But again, now is the time to change roles to accommodate the coming birth. It is time to release and relax in just the appropriate degree that will allow the baby to turn downward into a vertex position." In your mind now, repeat these thoughts to your muscles. Give them permission to release and relax as the baby is
given room to turn and move downward. Good. Now direct your mind to talk to your baby. Your precious little babygrowing inside of you is feeling your love, peace and relaxation. Direct these kinds of thoughts to your baby... how loved the baby is; how happy you are and how complete your lives will be together; how pleased you are as you eagerly await the birth. Explain to the baby that it will be safe in your arms; that it will be protected, nurtured and loved. Explain to the baby that being in the upright position was the normal and natural positioning for it throughout most of the pregnancy, but now it is time to get ready for birthing: (give Mom time to repeat each phrase to herself before you say the next) "Dear little baby inside me, it is now time to allow yourself to fold down and around so that your head is downward. Begin the turning of your body so that your head will be in the vertex position. Sweet baby, it is now time for you to start your role in this birthing by turning your head downward in order to assure a gentle, easy birth for both you and me. It will be a wonderful birth for everything is in the proper place and position as you tuck your chin down onto your chest once you are in the vertex, head down position. Your descent will be smooth and easy as you make your journey through the birth path safely and comfortably at the appropriate time." Now send your loving energy to your baby. Good. Focus on yourself now. Visualize releasing the uterine muscles, and any other muscles, enough so that your baby can turn and remain in the vertex, head down position. See, in your mind's eye, your baby turning into that position - head down, chin tucked in - coach the baby and your muscles along with nudging thoughts... relaxing your birthing body now. Directing the baby to turn downward. Releasing and relaxing your body, giving baby all the needed room to turn slowly and easily to the head down, vertex position. Very good. (Repeat this last paragraph at least 3 times)

External Version - this can be done in the hospital at about 37 weeks; see an Ob-Gyn for assistance and more information.

Homeopathy Options:

* Homeopathic Pulsatilla in 200C potency or higher. Mom to take one dose every 3 days while doing tilt exercises.

*Natrum Muriaticum- a water balancing tissue salt for fluid imbalance (too much
or too little amniotic fluid)

*Ignatia Amara- 30c x 1 every two hours for fear, anxiety, or depression (related
to suppressed grief, anger, or shock) which may be causing tightness of the
lower uterine segment and keeping the baby high.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2011

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Slow Cooker Broccoli Soup

2011-01-11T19:23:00.003-05:00

Ingredients:

5 medium sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 bag mixed cauliflower and broccoli
1 bag broccoli florets
1 onion, minced
2 - 3 cups chopped finely kale(That way you can tell the kids its seasoning.)
4 cloves of chopped garlic
4 vegetable stock or chicken stock
2 cans cream of celery soup
1 can pureed small white bean
2 tablespoons garlic powder
2 tablespoons parsley
Fresh ground black pepper
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

Directions:

1.Combine all in a slow cooker; cover, and cook on High for 1 hour.
2.Reduce heat to Low and simmer another 6 hours. Serve hot.

Yummmoooo Goodness!

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2011

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Banana Cinnamon Muffins

2011-01-10T23:37:00.002-05:00

Banana Cinnamon Muffins

Ingredients:
3 large ripe bananas
1 cup of grated zucchini (Yup, sneakin’ in those veggies)
1 heaping tablespoon honey
3 eggs
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. baking powder
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp. grounded sea salt
1 cups Oat flour
½ cup Oats, Rolled Extra Thick
½ cup ground walnuts
¼ cup ground flax seeds
1 tsp. pure vanilla
1/3 cup organic natural applesauce

1. Mash ripe bananas with fork. Add zucchini, honey, flax seeds and egg. Mix well.
2. Mix dry ingredients together.
3. Blend together vanilla and applesauce and dry ingredients.
4. Fold lightly into banana mixture until well mixed.
5. Pour batter into lightly greased muffin tins.
6. Bake at 375 degrees for about 20 minutes. Cool 10 minutes before removing from tins.

ENJOY :0) MY FRIENDS!

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2011

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Cauliflower Pizza

2011-01-10T22:02:00.003-05:00

Cauliflower Pizza

Ingredients:
2 cups grated Cauliflower (looks like rice)
2 large eggs
1 cup mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
2 tsp oregano
2 tsp basil
2 tsp parsley
2 tsp garlic

Toppings: YOUR choice. + sauce and mozzarella cheese to sprinkle.
My choices typically are kale, mushrooms, tomatoes, & roasted garlic...YUMO!

Directions:
1. Pre heat oven to 450.
2. spray a cookie sheet w/ non stick spray.
3. Mix the cauliflower, flour, herbs, egg and cheese.
4. Press into pan in a round shape.
5. Bake 20 minutes.
6. Remove from oven add sauce and veggi toppings.
7. Bake until cheese melts and edges of crust are crispy.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2011

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Four Rules For Living A Happy Life

2011-01-01T22:50:00.005-05:00

Four Rules For Living A Happy Life

1. Start each day with a grateful heart.
2. Focus on the positive aspects of every person you encounter.
3. Practice preventative healthcare through an optimal wellness lifestyle.
4. End each day with a grateful heart.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Creating Positive Changes in Your Life for the New Year

2010-12-31T13:29:00.004-05:00

Creating Positive Changes in Your Life for the New Year

Hi Friends,

With another hectic holiday season behind us we begin a new year, our eyes and ears open for change, all of us poised and ready to see what will be written on the clean slate of 2011. As a country we seem to be in a period of great transition, collectively focused on the economy, employment, the environment, foreign affairs, including the war on terrorism, health, wellness, and many other pressing issues at hand.

If you have followed tradition, chances are that you have already taken that momentary pause before the New Year to assess your life and determine what changes need to be made in your personal world. Many people make New Year's resolutions and create a short (sometimes long) list of things that they hope to improve, working at them diligently for a few weeks or perhaps even a month, until the effort becomes too tedious and the novelty of the whole thing has worn off. Why is it that New Year's resolutions never seem to stick? Perhaps we really don't want change as much as we tell ourselves that we do.

Change is a tricky thing. It often involves deep introspection and the retraining of long-standing negative habits. We tend to resist change because it feels uncomfortable and pushes us outside of our cozy little comfort zone. We like feeling comfortable and in control, and even though we may realize that a habit or a person or a job may not be the best thing for us, we still prefer it to the unknown because it is recognizable, familiar and safe.

Creating profound change in our lives takes courage and perseverance. These large-scale changes usually take an enormous amount of effort and a great deal of time to implement successfully, such as quitting smoking, or starting an exercise program or a diet to lose weight. Because our habits are often intertwined with our identity, we feel scared or nervous about who we will be once we have let them go. These habits have become coping skills, even useful little crutches for us to lean on, and though we know that they are not best for us, they still bring us comfort when times get tough or when we feel stressed or unhappy.

Resistance is a natural part of the process of change. An important thing to remember about resistance is that it exists entirely in the mind. We tell ourselves stories about why we need our comfortable yet negative habits, about how they serve a purpose or fulfill a need in our lives. We shudder at the thought of giving up fast food or exercising everyday or having to say no to that beer we want when we are out with our friends. Change scares us. Period.

One of the beautiful things about life is that change can happen in an instant. We can realize that we want to do something differently and then, in that crucial deciding moment, we can recognize our resistance and make a different choice. When we begin to understand that life is lived in each moment as it occurs, not in the future, then we only have the present moment to deal with. Resistance just becomes a thought we have as we are making a choice, a thought that we can face and question and ultimately overrule.

Don't let resistance and your fear of the unknown make your choices for you this year. Allow your awareness of the present moment to open you up to the next step, a new direction, or an unfamiliar path. Take a risk. Choose something new. Do something different. Don't be afraid to live life moment by moment and see where it takes you. Life can be either a daring adventure or a repetitive routine meant to keep you safe and cozy in your comfort zone. Creating or embracing change is really only about one thing- what you choose to believe in each moment.

The good news is it's all up to you.

As we approach the start of a brand new year, open lines of communication between those you love and allow thoughts and ideas to flow. Gaining positive self esteem within one’s life doesn't have to be a painful process although expect some painful realities to come to light. Deal with them, move on and laugh more. Honest, real and committed citizens who want the best for their families and communities. An urgency for change is what we must feel deep within our bones to work toward having the best life possible going forward. This is why positive self esteem is so important. Without it, we settle. By addressing our issues at home and in our nation, it will make us stronger, more able and unified. There is a saying that rings true in my life (no matter how difficult it is): when the thought of changing is harder than change itself, we change. Together if we make a concerted effort to make one positive shift this year, the results will be monumental. At the very least we've collectively contributed to the greater good. Certainly a better place than where we stand today.

New Years 2011!!

Its like a new Sunrise… of Hope, of Prosperity, of Happiness
Its like a new Beginning… of Thoughts, of Words, or Actions
Its like a new Day… of Energy, of Strength, of Ideas
Its like a bunch of whole new things… of Prayers, of Friends, and of Love.

Your Turn!!

I welcome everyone to become a part of this 2011 resolution revolution!

Most New Years’ resolutions are about fixing what is broken, making changes, and trying to be better, greater, more than what you are right now. But what if, this year, you add this resolution to your list……………..

“I will PROMOTE PEACE and NON-VIOLENCE starting with MYSELF. I will PROMOTE RESPECT for HUMAN LIFE starting with MYSELF. I will HAVE NO FEAR by acting according to my HIGHEST SELF and INNER GUIDANCE.”

If we all do this, then collectively our Resolution Revolution will cause ripples of hope, joy, gratitude and beauty through the entire Universe. Stop “not having enough time” and MAKE TIME. Stop, “being so worried about the economy” and MAKE ENERGY. Stop, “being so mad about the wars” and CREATE PEACE. Stop acting on your fears and INSIST on ACTING from YOUR HIGHEST SELF.

Let’s walk on our own two feet, feel the earth beneath us,
reach for the stars and make 2011 the year we really LIVE!

You might lose weight, get a better job, stop fighting with your partner or screaming at your kids, really start practicing the oboe and get your finances in order—- or you might not. But, I guarantee that if you make an honest pledge to this positive collective resolution, this will be one of the best years of your life.

What will your resolutions be? What changes would you like to make?

Happy New Year 2011!
<3
Alternative Health Solutions of NJ
Michelle Leonard

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Muddy Water Hot Chocolate

2010-12-20T21:05:00.002-05:00

Muddy Water Hot Chocolate

Ingredients
Serves 4

4 cups unsweetened almond milk
2 cinnamon sticks, split lengthwise
1/4 cup unsweetened natural cocoa powder
4 ounces dark chocolate (preferably at least 70 percent cacao), grated
4 tablespoons honey
2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Directions

1.Bring milk and cinnamon sticks to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat, and simmer gently for 10 minutes. Remove cinnamon sticks, rinse, and reserve.

2.Whisk in cocoa, chocolate, vanilla, and honey, whisking vigorously until mixture is foamy, 1 to 2 minutes. Divide among mugs. Garnish with cinnamon sticks or peppermint sticks dipped in chocolate for the kids.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Gingerbread People Cookie's

2010-12-15T18:15:00.004-05:00

3 c Whole Wheat Flour
1 ts Non-alum baking soda
2 ts Ground ginger
1/2 ts Allspice
1/2 c vegan Margarine
1/2 c Maple
1/4 c Molasses (pref. blackstrap)
2 tb Sweet Potato Baby Food
1 ts Corn Starch

Mix flour, baking soda and spices in medium sized bowl. In large bowl, blend margarine, baby food, maple syrup and molasses together. Gently mix in dry ingredients thoroughly. Wrap dough in plastic wrap or waxed paper and refrigerate until firm (approx. 1 hour). Preheat oven to 350 F. Divide dough into 4 pieces. Roll each piece out on lightly floured surface. Cut into desired gingerbread people shapes and place carefully on oiled or greased cookie sheet. Bake
in middle of oven for 6-10 minutes, depending on size of cookies. Remove from sheet carefully.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

YOUR JAR YOUR LIFE

2010-12-06T07:51:00.004-05:00

Your Jar

When things in your life seem, almost too much to handle,
When 24 Hours in a day is not enough,
Remember the jar and 2 cups of mint tea.

A professor stood before his philosophy class and had some items in front of him.
When the class began, wordlessly, he picked up a very large and empty left over peach jar and proceeded to fill it with golf balls.

He then asked the students, If the jar was full. They agreed that it was.

The professor then picked up a box of pebbles and poured them into the jar. He shook the jar lightly. The pebbles rolled into the open areas between the golf balls.

He then asked The students again if the jar was full.. They agreed it was..

The professor next picked up a box of sand and poured it into the jar. Of course, the sand filled up everything else. He asked once more if the jar was full. The students responded With an unanimous 'yes..'

The professor then produced Two cups of mint tea from under the table and poured the entire contents into the jar, effectively filling the Empty space between the sand. The students laughed.

Now,said the professor, As the laughter subsided, I want you to recognize that this jar represents your life. The golf balls are the important things - Family,
Children, Health, Friends, Optimal Wellness Lifestyle, Positive living, and Favorite passions – Things that if everything else was lost and only they remained, Your life would still be full.

The pebbles are the other things that matter like your job, house,and car.

The sand is everything else --
The small stuff.

If you put the sand into the jar first, he continued, there is no room for the pebbles or the golf balls.

The same goes for life.

If you spend all your time And energy on the small stuff,
You will never have room for the things that are important to you.

So...

Pay attention to the things that are critical to your happiness. Play With your children. Take time to get medical checkups and preventative care. Take your partner out to dinner. Snuggle when ever possible.

There will always be time to clean the house and fix the disposal.

Take care of the golf balls first -- The things that really matter.. Set your priorities. The rest is just sand.

One of the students raised her hand and inquired what the mint tea represented.

The professor smiled. I'm glad you asked.

It just goes to show you that no matter how full your life may seem,
there's always room for A couple of cups of tea with a friend.

May we always know what is important in our life!

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Quinoa

2010-12-03T08:50:00.003-05:00

Quinoa

For those of you who are wondering, it’s pronounced “KEEN-wah“.

If you’re looking for a highly nutritious carbohydrate, that’s not only going to help you stay lean, but will also maximize your energy levels, look no further… quinoa really does have it all!

History
While relatively new to the United States, quinoa has been cultivated in the Andean mountain regions of Peru, Chile and Bolivia for over 5,000 years, and it has long been a staple food in the diets of the native Indians. The Incas considered it a sacred food and referred to it as the "mother seed."

In their attempts to destroy and control the South American Indians and their culture, the Spanish conquerors destroyed the fields in which quinoa was grown. They made it illegal for the Indians to grow quinoa, with punishment including sentencing the offenders to death. With these harsh measures, the cultivation of quinoa was all but extinguished.

Yet, this super food would not be extinguished forever. In the 1980s, two Americans, discovering the concentrated nutrition potential of quinoa, began cultivating it in Colorado. Since then, quinoa has become more and more available as people realize that it is an exceptionally beneficial and delicious food.

So, what does quinoa taste like?
The taste and texture of quinoa is a bit like brown rice crossed with oatmeal. It’s fluffy, creamy, crunchy and somewhat nutty, all rolled into one.

The great thing is, it can be prepared in so many different ways, making it extremely versatile.

Quinoa is commonly thought of as a grain, probably because of how we use it, however it’s actually a relative of leafy green vegetables, like spinach and Swiss chard.

Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent food for celiac patients or other people following a gluten-free diet.

Nutritional qualities
A cup of quinoa will give you around 127 calories, 2 grams of fat, 23.4 grams of carbohydrates (2 of those being fibre), and 4.5 grams of protein. In fact, it has a pretty similar nutritional profile to that of brown rice, except it’s slightly higher in overall protein content. So, qunioa is a really great option if you’re trying to maintain an active lifestyle.

Health benefits of quinoa
Complete source of protein

unlike most grains, which contain an incomplete source of protein (you need to pair them with another food to make the meal complete), quinoa provides the full spectrum of nine essential amino acids.

So, it’s a really great choice, particularly if you’re a vegetarian or vegan.

Great for cardiovascular health
Quinoa is especially high in is magnesium, which is important for maintaining good cardiovascular health. Magnesium helps to relax the blood vessels, reducing the rates of hypertension, heart disease, or heart arrhythmias.

Provides antioxidant support
Regular intake of antioxidants is so important for warding off the damaging effects of free radicals, which we encounter on a daily basis. Quinoa does a wonderful job of boosting your antioxidant levels — being high in both manganese and copper, which help to promote a healthy immune system, and ensure that red blood cells remain in top condition.

Reduces the risk of gallstones
Since quinoa is high in fiber, it helps keep the digestive system running smoothly, and can also help reduce your chance of getting gallstones. A study, published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology, found that those eating foods mostly rich in insoluble fiber, had a 17% lower risk of getting gallstones.

Help for Migraine Headaches
If you are prone to migraines, try adding quinoa to your diet. Quinoa is a good source of magnesium, a mineral that helps relax blood vessels, preventing the constriction and rebound dilation characteristic of migraines. Increased intake of magnesium has been shown to be related to a reduced frequency of headache episodes reported by migraine sufferers. Quinoa is also a good source of riboflavin, which is necessary for proper energy production within cells. Riboflavin (also called vitamin B2) has been shown to help reduce the frequency of attacks in migraine sufferers, most likely by improving the energy metabolism within their brain and muscle cells.

Significant Cardiovascular Benefits for Postmenopausal Women
Eating a serving of whole grains, such as quinoa, at least 6 times each week is an especially good idea for postmenopausal women with high cholesterol, high blood pressure or other signs of cardiovascular disease (CVD). A 3-year prospective study of over 200 postmenopausal women with CVD, published in the July 2005 issue of the American Heart Journal, shows that those eating at least 6 servings of whole grains each week experienced both:

• Slowed progression of atherosclerosis, the build-up of plaque that narrows the vessels through which blood flows, and
• Less progression in stenosis, the narrowing of the diameter of arterial passageways.

The women's intake of fiber from fruits, vegetables and refined grains was not associated with a lessening in CVD progression.

So, if you love your carbs, but would really like to find a healthier option to plain old white pasta or rice, quinoa is a great substitute for those higher-carb foods.

So, now that you know how great quinoa is — you’ve dashed down to the shops to buy some — what do you do with it?

How to cook quinoa (You can also buy prewashed)

• Wash the seeds in cold, running water to remove any residue.
• To cook, add one part quinoa to a saucepan, with two parts liquid.
• Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer covered.
• One cup of quinoa normally takes 15 minutes to prepare.
• You’ll know it’s ready when the grains become translucent, and the white germ has partially detached itself.

Tips for using quinoa
#1 Eat as breakfast “oatmeal”— just add nuts and fruit when cooked.
#2 Add quinoa to your favorite soups, stir-fry or casseroles.
#3 Combine cooked, chilled quinoa with chickpeas, roasted red pepper, scallions and coriander.
#4 Use sprouted quinoa in salads and sandwiches — similar to alfalfa sprouts.
#5 Ground quinoa flour can be added to cookie or muffin recipes.
#6 If you’re after a wheat-free option, make a tabouli salad using quinoa (rather than bulgar wheat).

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Egg Salad In A Lettuce Wrap

2010-12-01T17:13:00.003-05:00

Egg Salad In A Lettuce Wrap

Ingredients:

6 eggs, hard boiled. (peeled and chopped)
1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 Tbs light mayonnaise
2 Tbs spicy mustard
a little bit of horseradish
salt, pepper, garlic powder to taste

Mix together.

spoon into a romaine lettuce leaf.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Kappa Maki (Cucumber Sushi Roll)

2010-11-29T20:57:00.002-05:00

Kappa Maki (Cucumber Sushi Roll)

Ingredients for about 4 rolls:
* 2/3 cup short grain brown rice
* 2 1/3 cups water
* 1 dash sea salt
* 1/2 cup quinoa
* 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
* 2 tablespoons organic sugar
* 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
* 4 sheets nori
* 1 cucumber, cut into thin strips
* sesame seed

Other options: You could add shredded carrot, avocado,crab meat, shrimp, salmon, ETC.

Directions:

1. Rinse and drain your short grain brown rice. Add the rice to a medium size saucepan along with the dash of salt and 2 1/3 cups water. (Yes, thats too much water for the rice, but you'll add the quinoa to it as well later on). Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low and cover the pan. Set your timer for 30 minutes.

2. While the rice cooks you can mix up the vinegar(s),sugar, and salt. I like to heat this up so that the sugar and salt fully dissolve. Set aside.

3. Also while the rice cooks you can cut up your cucumber. Set aside.

4. At the 30 minute mark, add in the quinoa and give it a quick stir. You may have to bring it back up to a boil to maintain the heat, then reduce back down to low and cover again. Set your timer for 15 more minutes. At the end of the 15 minutes both the rice and the quinoa should be tender and nicely cooked.

5. Remove your rice mixture from the pan. You can turn it into a large mixing bowl, or even onto a cookie sheet. Spread it out so that it cools more quickly. Mix in the vinegar mixture, carefully folding it into the rice. Adjust the seasoning if need be, adding more vinegar if you like. (I wouldn't add more salt because you generally serve with soy sauce).

6. After about 10 minutes the rice should have cooled off quite a bit and be ready to work with. (You could prepare this far in advance, remembering it's best to work with the rice at room temperature).

7. Cover up your sushi mat with plastic wrap or a clear plastic bag (I put it inside a large Ziploc). Place a sheet of nori on your mat (shiny side down).

8. Eyeball your rice mixture into 4 equal portions and place one portion on your sheet of nori. Pat it down with damp hands to cover the lower half of the nori sheet with rice. There is usually a picture on the back of the nori packaging to show you how to spread the rice and roll it up. I like to keep a mug of water nearby to dip my fingers into.

9. If you wish, sprinkle the rice with sesame seeds at this point. Place your fillings in a straight line across the middle of your rice. Lift the sushi mat and fold over and roll, to form a log. This might take practice if it's your first time, but basically connect the bottom of the sheet closest to you, to the top of the rice mixture, which should result in your filling being perfectly in the middle (or not! -- still tastes good!). Use the mat to help you tighten up the sushi log then release it.

10. Repeat to use up all the rice and you should have 4 sushi logs. With a very sharp knife - end dipped in water, cut each log into 6 or 8 equal pieces.

11. Serve with wasabi, ginger and light soy sauce if you like. Enjoy!

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Yummy Yogurt Salad Dressing

2010-11-18T11:57:00.003-05:00

Yummy Yogurt Salad Dressing

Ingredients

* 1 (16 ounce) container plain no fat Greek yogurt like Chobani
* 2 teaspoons lemon juice
* 1 package Hidden Valley Ranch salad dressing seasoning mix
* 2 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
* 2 teaspoon chopped fresh chives
* 2 teaspoon minced onion
* 2 teaspoon chopped chives
* 2 teaspoon chopped dill
* 2 teaspoon minced garlic

Directions

1. In a small bowl, beat together yogurt, seasoning package, and lemon juice until smooth. Stir in herbs. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Tofu Turkey Roast (Step-by-Step)

2010-11-17T11:29:00.011-05:00

Tofu Turkey Roast (Step-by-Step)

Stuffing: Roll stuffing (of choice) into a rounded log about 25 cm (10") long.

1. Preheat oven to 350ºF.

2. On the counter or a large cutting board, lay down 2 pieces of non-stick baking paper about 45 cm (18") long, overlapping about 10 cm (4") along the long edges. Over the top of this, lay down another piece of baking paper, centered along the overlapped edges.

3. On the top layer of baking paper, evenly spread the tofu "turkey" mixture to about 30 x 25 cm (12" x 10").

"Turkey"
four 320 g packets (2 3/4 lb total) very firm or hard tofu (not silken)
4 tablespoons (5 1/3 US tbsp) arrowroot
8 teaspoons savoury (nutritional) yeast flakes
3 teaspoons agar powder
4 teaspoons Massel chicken-style stock powder
4 teaspoons sage
1 1/3 teaspoons thyme
1 1/3 teaspoons onion powder
1 1/3 teaspoons garlic powder
1 1/3 teaspoons salt (or to taste)
shake of black pepper
A. Divide the ingredients evenly into 2 or more lots depending on the size of your food processor.
B. In a food processor, puree all ingredients in lots. You may need to keep stopping to mix the mixture so it all processes evenly.

4. Place the stuffing log on to the center of this.

5.Carefully lift the edges of one end of the paper, and thus the tofu, up and over the stuffing. Gently pull paper away from tofu and lay flat again, leaving the tofu around the stuffing.

Repeat with the other side.

The tofu mixture should meet at the top and wrap all the way around the stuffing.

6. Gently press the edges of the tofu mixture together and smooth over.

Press the tofu over the ends of the stuffing log, and smooth this over also.

7. Brush the entire top of the roast with marinade. (Keep the remaining marinade for basting later.)

Marinade Mix
•1/2 cup sesame oil
•1/4 cup tamari
•2 tablespoons miso paste
•2 tablespoons Worchester sauce
•5 tablespoons orange juice
•1 teaspoon honey mustard
•3 teaspoons honey
•1/2 teaspoon orange zest
•3 sprigs fresh rosemary

8. Wrap with all the layers of the baking paper. Twist the long ends to close. Wrap with an additional layer of baking paper, if desired.

Wrap again with several layers of foil (extra wide foil makes this easier).

9. Gently place on a baking tray. Bake for 1 hour.

10. Remove foil and baking paper (the easiest way is to simply tear it away from the top). Put this back in the oven -brush with remaining marinade every 10 minutes for around 30 minutes or until golden brown.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Cranberry Spinach Salad

2010-11-17T10:58:00.003-05:00

Cranberry Spinach Salad
Ingredients:

1 pound spinach, rinsed and torn into bite
-size pieces
1 mixed bag of baby greens
1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted (or walnuts)
1 cup dried cranberries
2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese

Apple Vinaigrette Dressing Recipe

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 cup apple juice
3 tablespoons virgin olive oil
salt and pepper to taste.

Directions:
1. Place salad greens in a bowl.
2. Top with cheese, cranberries and pecans.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the ingredients for the vinaigrette.
4. Toss with salad just before serving.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Thanksgiving Butternut Squash Soup

2010-11-11T20:29:00.006-05:00

Gingered Apple Butternut Squash Soup In Your Crockpot

1 tbsp olive oil
1 very large butternut squash (see below for instructions on how to prepare fresh squash)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
2 tart apples, peeled, cored and diced
2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
1 tsp cumin
2 tsp salt
3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken)
1 cup apple cider
1 tbsp honey

If using a whole butternut squash:
Peel squash with vegetable peeler then cut in half and scoop out seeds and discard. Dice sections in to small 1 inch cubes.

For soup:
Heat oven to 400 degrees. Add squash, onion, garlic and ginger to bowl and toss with olive oil. Spread out on baking sheet and roast for 15 minutes.
When vegetables are ready, add to crock-pot. Peel, core and dice apples and add to pot along with the remainding ingredients. Heat on low for 6 hours. When ready use either a hand mixer or potato masher to puree soup.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Acupuncture in Army Health Care

2010-11-11T09:07:00.006-05:00

Nov 1, 2010 Ashley Bateman Reports from army.mil

Acupuncture in Army Health Care
(USAG Bamberg)BAMBERG, Germany -- Health care, as defined by Merriam-Webster's dictionary is, "efforts made to maintain or restore health especially by trained and licensed professionals." Webster's online dictionary further describes alternative medicine as "the practice of medicine without the use of drugs; may involve herbal medicines or self-awareness or biofeedback or acupuncture."

Within the realm of alternative treatment lies acupuncture, an ancient Chinese practice of using needles inserted in the skin on different parts of the body to relieve pain. Although experts still disagree on the exact physiological process by which acupuncture relieves pain, studies have shown positive quantitative and qualitative results of the treatment.

Army health care providers have been using this ancient Chinese technique for active duty Soldiers downrange for several years, since Air Force doctor Richard C. Niemtzow was credited with developing Battlefield Acupuncture nearly 10 years ago. The healing method is not available to most military community members and TRICARE has yet to approve coverage for acupuncture from off-post providers.

However, times are changing. According to an Army News Service article published June 25, a report released by the Army's surgeon general June 23 recommended more than 100 changes in the Army's health care system.

The article stated that "The Pain Management Task Force's final report, which was initiated by Lt. Gen. Eric B. Schoomaker in August of 2009, addresses the lack of a comprehensive pain-management strategy across the Army, and suggests alternative treatments to medication such as acupuncture, meditation, biofeedback and yoga.

Also noted in the report is the fact that pain management has changed very little since the discovery of morphine in 1805.

"This and further concerns about combining medications in drug therapy have led to an increase in alternative medicine throughout Army health care communities. I believe that the 'spread' going on reflects the fact that more and more physicians are pursuing training in acupuncture," said Lt.Col. Larry R. Patterson, Bamberg Health Clinic commander. "Treatments become more available because of a larger pool of trained physicians."

Warner Barracks is one of a few Army health clinics to respond to the pain-management strategy with the use of auricular acupuncture for mild Traumatic Brain Injury patients. Auricular acupuncture refers to points located on the ears.

Dr. Kuno P. Zimmermann, a licensed acupuncturist who has practiced for more than 12 years, is administering this method treatment.

"Magnets and metal pellets, gold, silver, stainless steel, are preferred over ear needles because they are noninvasive and can be left on for several days," Zimmermann said. "Specialized ear needles, known as asp needles, can also be left in for several days, but carry a small risk of infection which is not worth taking with patients who may be spending extended time periods in relatively unsanitary or outdoor conditions."

Though an approved treatment for mTBI patients, auricular acupuncture has yet to extend to the greater community.

"Currently, the mTBI clinic offers auricular acupuncture only, to mTBI clients only, as an alternative to pharmacological treatments for problems commonly encountered after concussions," Patterson said. "Expansion of the MTBI services to include body acupuncture is not planned, as the physical plant currently cannot accommodate it."

The offering of auricular and/or body acupuncture to the broader Bamberg Health Clinic populations requires management decisions and resource allocations from a higher level, he said.

Dr. Natalia Whitman, a neurologist and medical director of Vilseck's mTBI clinic, is planning on attaining credentials in acupuncture. The research she has seen in the past years has convinced her that this method of treatment would greatly benefit patients suffering a variety of ailments.

Whitman said that often patients receive medications through a pharmacy from multiple providers.

"I'm always looking for something nontraditional," Whitman said. "Many medications may have interactions."

Drugs dealing with neurological issues or prescribed by a behavioral health physician, may interfere or interact with some pain medications, so having drug-free options to manage pain is important, she said.

"I'm trying to avoid interactions with other medications, side effects and for young, Army strong men to remain Army strong," she said.

Whitman is encouraged by findings published in "The American Family Physician." Volume 80, number five of the journal published Sept. 1, 2009 reads, "Acupuncture was found to improve headaches and health-related quality of life when added to medical management in patients with chronic daily headache."

"I plan on expanding to include acupuncture when I receive the classes," Whitman said. "Ninety-eight percent of my patients have headaches."

As policymakers review American health care practices, cutting costs is a top priority. According to a study published by the American Association of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, acupuncture and other alternative treatment methods are extremely cost effective. Studies are convincing some medical professionals that implementation of acupuncture could greatly reduce costs and benefit their patients. According to studies, acupuncture saves approximately $15,000 respectively for headaches, lower back and neck pain, each per year, Whitman said.

Acupuncturists still hope to push new legislation to incorporate acupuncture into regular and reimbursed pain treatment. If passed, a new policy, entitled Bill HR 646, could greatly affect availability of acupuncture services in the United States. Issue 51 of "The American Acupuncturist Journal," published last spring, discussed the bill.

"Passage of this Bill HR 646 will provide federally endorsed national recognition of acupuncture as a reimbursable modality when practiced by a licensed acupuncturist," the journal reads. "From this vantage point, acupuncture will become more accessible to the public and health professionals, encouraging integration and utilization where indicated. We found acupuncture to be highly cost-effective...considerably less that the current threshold at the National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence."

The NICE, according to the article, has a set threshold of cost. Treatment costing below this threshold is considered worth paying for. The determined incremental cost of acupuncture is just a fifth of that threshold amount, well under it. In conclusion, the article read, "A short course of traditional acupuncture for the treatment of lower back pain in primary care confers a modest health benefit. The use of acupuncture care for the treatment of lower back pain therefore appears highly cost-effective."

Until a bill is passed, patients should not expect to see insurance coverage of acupuncture, but those most in need are receiving consideration for care at some Army health clinics.

"A lot of it is a time constraint, if you have a really busy provider," Whitman said. "It's really hard to fit it in the treatment plan."

Multiple doctors at the Landstuhl Regional Medical center are qualified to perform acupuncture and are doing so through the Anesthesia Interventional Pain Management department there. Several other Army mTBI clinics have begun utilizing acupuncture or hope to do so in the near future.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com/

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Yoga & Acupuncture To Treat Pain In The Army

2010-11-10T21:11:00.004-05:00

Lt. Gen. Eric B. Schoomaker, Army surgeon general talks Yoga & Acupuncture To Treat Pain In The Army

WASHINGTON (Army News Service, June 25, 2010) -- The Army's health-care system may soon see changes in how Soldiers are treated for pain, according to a report released by the Army's surgeon general Wednesday which recommends 109 changes.

The Pain Management Task Force's final report, which was initiated by Lt. Gen. Eric B. Schoomaker in August of 2009, addresses the lack of a comprehensive pain-management strategy across the Army, and suggests alternative treatments to medication such as acupuncture, meditation, biofeedback and yoga. Also noted in the report is the fact that pain management has changed very little since the discovery of morphine in 1805.

Schoomaker explained that with the increasing numbers of Soldiers returning from combat with severe wounds, reports of medication abuse and suicides with pain as a possible factor are troubling.

"While these issues might not be directly related to pain management, I felt a thorough evaluation and assessment of current pain-management practice was indicated," Schoomaker said.

He said part of the problem is that severely injured Soldiers, like those in Warrior Transition Units, are often prescribed multiple medications and sometimes seen by several different doctors, which can cause inconsistencies in care. But he maintained that this is not just an Army problem-it's a problem throughout the U.S. healthcare system.

"This is a nation-wide problem ... we've got a culture of 'a pill for every ill,'" agreed Brig. Gen. Richard W. Thomas, assistant Army surgeon general.

"As a physician, the hardest thing to deal with is patients with chronic pain," said Col. Jonathan H. Jaffin, director of heath policy and services, Army office of the surgeon general. "So many of us went into medicine to relieve suffering, and chronic pain is frustrating because we want to relieve that pain."

The task force visited 28 military, Veterans Affairs and civilian medical centers between October and January to observe treatment capabilities and best practices. Schoomaker's said his goal is to form a pain-management strategy that is holistic, multidisciplinary and puts Soldiers' quality of life first.

"This is an opportunity to change medical care and the way we take care of patients," noted Thomas.

Schoomaker stressed that Army practices have always been in compliance with America's medical regulations, but he thinks the Army can do better.

"Everything we do in the Army, even managing a toothache, is all in compliance with national standards ... what we want to do is set the bar higher," Schoomaker explained.

Schoomaker's higher standards include offering treatment alternatives that might not yet be prescribed in average doctor's offices, but which patients are already seeking out on their own, such as acupuncture. He said the Army has looked at research on the effectiveness of complementary techniques, and he would like to see them integrated into traditional medical treatment.

"Programs such as biofeedback and yoga have been subjected to scientific randomized trials and have been proven to be effective," Schoomaker said.

Biofeedback involves measuring body signals -- such as temperature, heart rate, muscle tension and brain waves -- to help patients with relaxation techniques and pain reduction.

Schoomaker said he is hopeful that Soldiers will be receptive to alternative methods of care once they see that the treatments work.

"Seeing success is the best way to convince people of the usefulness and the need for other approaches," agreed Jaffin.

The 109 recommendations are divided into four areas: to provide tools and infrastructure that support pain management, build a full spectrum of best practices, focus on Soldiers and families, and synchronize a culture of pain awareness, education and intervention.

Schoomaker said the recommendations that can be put into policy under his authority will be implemented in the coming months, and the 2010 National Defense Authorization Act asks the secretary of defense to integrate a pain-management policy into the military health-care system no later than March 2011.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com/

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Pumpkin Oatmeal Cookies

2010-10-17T15:02:00.003-04:00

PUMPKIN OATMEAL COOKIES

INGREDIENTS:

1 can pumpkin
2 eggs whipped
1/2 c. organic brown sugar
¼ c. maple syrup
1 1/2 c. organic Whole Wheat Pastry Flour
1 tsp. baking soda
1 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 tsp. nutmeg
1/2 tsp. cloves
3 c. rolled oats
1/2 c. dried cranberries
1 Cup Sugar and Spice Roasted Pumpkin Seeds (previous recipe)

DIRECTIONS:

Spray baking sheet with cooking spray. In a large bowl combine pumpkin, egg whites, and maple syrup. In a separate bowl combine sugar, flour, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, oats, and cranberries (batter will be very dry at first). Mix ingredients together just until moistened.

Drop cookies by tablespoonful onto a prepared baking sheet, 2" apart. You can leave the cookies in the shape of a ball (the baked cookie will still be a ball) or flatten them out with the bottom of a glass before baking. Top with Sugar and Spice Roasted Pumpkin Seeds. Bake at 350 degrees for 15 minutes.

Talking Pumpkin:

When you think of pumpkin, what comes to mind? Many people think of carving and smashing them. Others think of Halloween, jack-o-lanterns, pumpkin pie and pumpkin seeds; but did you know that pumpkin is a superfood? Pumpkin is a nutritional powerhouse whose benefits are still being discovered. Pumpkin is filled with vitamins, nutritional value and tremendous health benefits. Few people actually know about the health benefit aspect that pumpkin offers.

Pumpkin Nutrition Facts:

* High in fiber (high fiber diets aid the digestive process; help with weight management by helping you feel fuller sooner; help lower cholesterol; help fight heart disease by reducing the tendency of the blood to clot.

* High in Vitamin C (Vitamin C help the body's immune functions; helps fight free radicals, which cause cellular damage; helps in the body's production of collagen, which is very important for those recovering from wounds and injuries; may offer cancer fighting properties.)

*High in vitamin E (Vitamin E has antioxidant properties, which are essential to skin health and skin care; offers anti-aging benefits for the skin; help regulate Vitamin A in the body; aids in treating sun burns and various skin irritations.)

*High in Magnesium (Magnesium is an important mineral that is essential to many normal biological functions of the body; important in the formation of bones and teeth.)

*High in Potassium (Potassium is an important mineral that helps regulate blood pressure and proper heart function.)

*High in a variety of carotenoids (Dietary carotenoids assist in lower risk of a variety of cancers, heart disease, cataracts and blindness, as well as helping fight the effects of aging; provides anti-inflamatory benefits; protects against cholesterol build up.)

*High in Zinc (Zinc is great for reproductive health; helps to reduce prostate size)

Pumpkin seeds have become more popular as research suggests that they have unique nutritional and health benefits. The seeds are rich in fiber as well as vitamins B and E. Also, one gram of pumpkin seed protein contains as much tryptophan as a full glass of milk. Other health benefits of pumpkin seeds include:

• Natural Anti-Inflammatory. Pumpkin seeds effectively reduce inflammation without the side effects of anti-inflammatory drugs.

• Prevention of Kidney Stones. They prevent calcium oxalate kidney stone formation, according to studies.

• Great Source of Magnesium. A 1/2 cup of pumpkin seeds contains 92 percent of your daily value of magnesium, a mineral in which most Americans are deficient.

• Prevention of Osteoporosis. Because they are high in zinc, pumpkin seeds are a natural protector against osteoporosis. Low intake of zinc is linked to higher rates of osteoporosis.

• Lower Cholesterol. Pumpkin seeds contain phytosterols, compounds that that have been shown to reduce levels of LDL cholesterol.

• Improved Bladder Function. In some studies, pumpkin seed extracts improved bladder function in animals.

• Depression Treatment. They contain L-tryptophan, a compound naturally effective against depression.

• Treatment of Parasites. They are used in many cultures as a natural treatment for tapeworms and other parasites. Studies also show them to be effective against acute schistosomiasis (a parasite contracted from snails).

OATS

Oats are unique. They are one of the only grains that contain both soluble and insoluble fiber (barley is another). In fact, oats have the highest soluble fiber content of any grain. Though both types are important, soluble fiber is especially helpful against heart disease, and can help moderate blood sugars. Some of its proven health benefits include:

* Lower cholesterol. Oats are well known as being heart-healthy. This is mostly due to its soluble fiber content, which can help lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol, cutting the risk of heart disease.

* Lower blood pressure. Oats are considered a whole grain. The American Heart Association has identified several dietary factors that can contribute to lowering blood pressure, including eating at least three servings of whole grains a day.

* Blood sugar control. The soluble fiber in oats can help keep your blood sugar from rising too quickly after you eat. Try steel-cut or Irish oats, which take longer to cook but have a much lower glycemic response than instant oatmeal. Most instant oatmeal is either too high in sugar or too processed to have a positive effect on blood sugar.

* Digestive health. Both types of fiber promote regular bowel movements and help prevent constipation.

* Weight control. The soluble fiber in oatmeal absorbs a large amount of water, helping you to feel fuller for a longer time.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com/

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Sugar and Spice Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

2010-10-17T14:58:00.004-04:00

Sugar and Spice Roasted Pumpkin Seeds

One large pumpkin will generally yield 1 cup or pumpkin seeds. These can also be cooked over low to medium-low heat in the skillet.

Ingredients:

* 1 cup pumpkin seeds
* 1 tablespoon safflower oil
* 1 tablespoon organic sugar, or more, to taste
* 1 tablespoon organic brown sugar, or more, to taste
* 1/2 to 1 teaspoon cinnamon
* 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
* 1/8 teaspoon allspice

Preparation:
Rinse seeds well and get as much of the pumpkin pulp off of them as possible. Some of the small pieces are going to adhere, but they won't hurt the seeds at all, and might even add a little more flavor. Pat dry with paper towels. Don't let them dry completely on the paper towels, because they might stick!

Toss seeds with the oil, sugar, and spices.
Heat oven to 300°. Spread coated seeds in a shallow baking sheet (I line a baking sheet with nonstick foil to make cleanup easier), turning from time to time, for about 45 to 60 minutes, or until nicely browned and crunchy.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com/

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Alternative Health Solutions of NJ BEST OF MONMOUTH AND OCEAN COUNTIES 2010

2010-10-14T13:52:00.008-04:00

I would like to thank everyone who believes in my message and mission and voted for Alternative Health Solutions of NJ © in the “BEST OF MONMOUTH AND OCEAN COUNTIES 2010” Asbury Park Press. Again let me remind you Our mission is to provide individuals with the most current and useful information on their alternative medicine options. We aim to educate consumers about natural solutions and motivate consumers to take a more active and responsible role in restoring and maintaining one owns health. We understand that each client is unique, every situation is unique, and each response and treatment plan should be just as unique and tailored specifically to meet the goals of the individual. Alternative Health Solutions of NJ will help structure the bridge uniting alternative medicine and conventional medicine to form complementary medicine. We hope you find information we supply helpful in your journey learning more about your alternative healthcare choices. You are in charge in improving the quality of your life. I believe that everyone can find their path to their own personal Optimal Wellness Lifestyle (OWL) ©. I encourage people to find and use new resources to better their health and positive lifestyle living. I have created this business (es) as a wave of support, OWL Revolution I started calling it, for folks to be embraced in strength and cradled in encouragement on their personal path to optimal wellness. Together WE can make a difference in health, wellness, and happiness. Thank you again for voting, Thank you for the encouragement, Thank you for listening!

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com/

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

" Beef " less Veggi Stew

2010-10-01T11:11:00.005-04:00

" Beef " less Veggi Stew

Ingredients:

1 x Onions, sliced & diced
2 x Celery, sliced & Diced
1 x Bag of baby Carrots
3 x Red skinned potatoes, chunked
2 x Sweet potatoes, chunked
1 pint baby portabella Mushrooms, whole
2 garden fresh jersey tomatoes, chunked
½ cup of corn
½ cup of peas
5 x Garlic cloves, crushed
8 x Prunes
2 cups Water
64 oz Vegetable stock
1 Bottle Oktoberfest Beer
2 cups reconstituted vegetarian 'beef' bullion
1 package Knorr Vegetable recipe mix
1 pkg. McCormick Mushroom Gravy Mix
1/4 c Soy sauce
1/4 c Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon Ginger, grated
1/2 teaspoon Marjoram
1/2 teaspoon Thyme
1/8 teaspoon paprika
1/8 teaspoon tumeric
1/4 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
* Optional - 2 pkgs. Morningstar farms steak strips (Put them on a baking sheet, then throw them in the oven for about 25 minutes to bake. They get a nice texture when you do this. Then toss them into your bowl in chunks at the last minute. The kids liked this.)
3 tablespoons Wondra
Sea salt and fresh ground pepper to taste

Directions:

Combine all ingredients, except the Morningstar steak strips and Wondra flour, in a very large pot. Bring to a boil, lower heat, cover, and simmer for hours until vegetables are tender.

Mix the Wondra flour in 1/2 cup water. Slowly add to stew to thicken.

Put the Morningstar farms steak strips on a baking sheet. Throw them in the oven for about 25 minutes to bake. They get a nice texture when you do this. Chunk them and then toss them into your bowl with the stew at the last minute.

Adjust as needed any of the above. I literally threw this together and kept adding till it tasted WONDERFUL! It was a lot of stew!

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com/

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Minestrone Quinoa Soup

2010-09-14T20:17:00.004-04:00

Minestrone Quinoa Soup

Ingredients:

2 T olive oil, best quality

1 1/2 cup of diced carrots

1 1/2 cup of diced onion

3 celery rib, diced

2 zucchini diced

6 cloves garlic, minced

2 bay leaves

2 tsp thyme, chopped

2 tsp Parsley, chopped

6 cups stock (chicken and or vegetable)

2 cans cannellini beans, cooked

2 cups seeded and diced plum tomatoes

½ cup quinoa, rinsed

Salt and pepper

2 cups spinach, fresh and finely chopped

2 T basil, sliced

½ cup Parmesan Romano cheese, grated

Directions:

1. Heat olive oil in a heavy stock pot over medium heat. Add carrots, onion, celery, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and parsley and cook carrots till tendor. Add zucchini and cook for an additional few minutes.

2. Add stock, beans, tomatoes and quinoa. Increase the heat to bring to a boil. Reduce to low and simmer for 20 minutes or until the quinoa is tender.

3. Remove bay leaves and sprinkle with salt and pepper.

4. Stir in spinach and basil just before serving. Sprinkle with cheese.

Interesting Quinoa Facts:

Quinoa is a low-fat source of protein and rich in essential nutrients. Although technically a seed, quinoa (pronounced keen-wah) is commonly referred to and used most often as a grain. Once only available in health foods stores, quinoa is now available year-round in most supermarkets and is one of the most nutritious foods one can eat.

Nutrients in Quinoa

One cup (cooked) quinoa contains eight grams of protein, nearly twice the amount found in other grains. Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it provides the body all nine essential amino acids. In addition to being a good source of protein, quinoa also contains:

* iron
* calcium
* potassium
* zinc
* vitamin E
* selenium
* manganese
* magnesium
* tryptophan
* copper
* phosphorus
* fiber
* lignans

* Complete protein. Quinoa contains all 9 essential amino acids that are required by the body as building blocks for muscles.

* Magnesium helps relax your muscles and blood vessels and effects blood pressure. Quinoa contains high levels of this vital nutrient.

* Fiber. Quinoa is a wonderful way to ensure that you consume valuable fiber that eases elimination and tones your colon.

* Manganese and copper. Quinoa is a good source of these minerals that act as antioxidants in your body to get rid of dangerous cancer and disease-causing substances.

Health Benefits of Quinoa

Quinoa is rich in magnesium, zinc, vitamin E, and selenium, which help to control weight and reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes. Studies suggest quinoa is high in antioxidant activity, helping to protect the body from free radical damage. Like other grains, quinoa is rich in lignans, a phytonutrient found to reduce the risk of heart disease as well as certain types of cancer.

Quinoa is a high-fiber food with five grams of fiber per cup (cooked). Fiber not only promotes digestive health, but may also reduce the risk of breast cancer in pre-menopausal women, may prevent cardiovascular disease and diabetes, promotes weight loss, and aids weight maintenance.

Needed for tissue repair and to build and maintain muscle, protein is used by almost every cell in the body. Foods high in protein also promote satiety and research suggests a protein-rich diet may speed weight loss.

Quinoa is gluten-free, making it a nutritious substitute for those with wheat allergies or suffering from celiac disease.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com/

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

2010-09-12T12:33:00.011-04:00

What is Morning Sickness?

It is estimated that between 50 to 80 percent of women have nausea, sometimes with vomiting, during pregnancy. Although the nausea may be most noticeable in the morning, it lasts throughout the day for many women.

Even if there is no nausea, women may develop aversions to certain foods. Morning sickness generally improves by the 13th to 16th week of pregnancy, but some women continue to notice nausea into their second trimester.

Why does morning sickness afflict so many pregnant women?

Doctors know that it's caused by a hormone called estrogen that is rushed into peak production during your eighth or ninth week of pregnancy. It may be hard to believe while you're camped at the toilet, but morning sickness is actually a good sign. Studies show that women with morning sickness are less likely to miscarry or deliver prematurely. But even though it may be a good sign for your pregnancy, the nausea certainly doesn't feel good to you.

Many women worry that morning sickness is a sign of something wrong with their babies. This is not the case. A study, published in the Journal - Obstetrics and Gynecology observed that morning sickness is associated with better pregnancy outcomes, decreased risk of miscarriage, pre-term birth, low birth weight and perinatal death. Researchers believe morning sickness may support the healthy growth of the placenta – your baby’s lifeline while it is inside you.

A study surveyed pregnant women and found:

* Almost two thirds (61.2 percent) of women used natural remedies to alleviate morning sickness

* The three most common types of natural remedies used were ginger tea, acupressure wristbands (called "sea bands"), and vitamin B6

* Among the women who used natural remedies, 14.7 percent reported mild adverse reactions. Most common were an inability to tolerate the strong flavor of ginger and wrist irritation among women who used acupressure wrist bands.

Below is a collected variety of the various home remedies that may help with soothing your morning sickness and pregnancy nausea . There is bound to be something here to help no matter whether your morning sickness consists of a little morning nausea or the all-day eat and throw up variety. However, be sure to contact your caregiver if the nausea and vomiting becomes unbearable or causes you to lose weight.

• Graze. Eat frequent, small meals. You may want to eat five to six times a day rather than having three big meals. Sometimes, hunger pangs bring on the feelings of nausea. That's because acids in the stomach have nothing to digest when there's no food around.

• Keep crackers, bread or toast, cereal, or other bland foods handy. Try eating a few crackers before getting out of bed in the morning or lifting your head off the pillow.

• Identify any triggers and avoid them.

• Make sure you are drinking enough fluids, especially if you have been vomiting. Try drinking in between meals rather than with meals, which some women find helpful.

• Get plenty of rest.

• Chew your food thoroughly. Applesauce consistency.

• Make sure your stomach is never completely empty. Carry fruit, cheese and/or crackers around with you to nibble on throughout the day.

• Sometimes pregnancy brings about an over-production of saliva, which can make the mother-to-be sick to her stomach. Nibbling on a handful of salt-and-vinegar chips helps dry up the saliva.As with any junk food, don't pig out on chips, even if they are a cure. Nibble only when needed.

• Eat a high protein snack before bed at night. - Nuts and peanut butter. (recipe below)

• Ginger Ale: Settle a bout of morning sickness with a cup of ginger ale.

• Eat a diet high in carbohydrates and protein, low in fats.

• De-stress with a massage – www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

• Eat salty, crunchy foods.

• Avoid spicy food.

• Sniff a fresh lemon peel.

• Make sure your breads and crackers are whole grain.

• Take 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and 1 tablespoon honey in cold water before bed.

• Mommy's Bliss Morning Sickness Magic: When morning sickness strikes, you may be searching for a remedy that not only will help quickly, but is also easy to obtain. Morning Sickness Magic is one of many herbal remedies that is favored among pregnant women and may be just what you are looking for. One of the first ingredients is ginger. Another ingredient is B6 which is also known as pyridoxine. It is a common B vitamin, but has been shown to help with nausea. Many morning sickness remedies include this vitamin, which can also help give you more energy during this time when you may be feeling more tired than usual. Red Raspberry Leaf is another herb which has been used for thousands of years in pregnancy. It is thought to help relieve nausea and vomiting early on in pregnancy. It is also used later in pregnancy to help tone the uterus in preparation for labor. Lastly is folic acid, which is very important during pregnancy. Folic acid has been shown to reduce birth defects of the neural tube such as spina bifida. Having a vitamin like folic acid along with your morning sickness remedy is a great advantage to help in keeping your baby healthy. So, if you find yourself with morning sickness creeping up on you and you’re looking for something natural, this should be a great product for you. Not only does Morning Sickness Magic help alleviate your symptoms, but it will also help to keep you and your unborn baby healthy.

• Avoid strong odors and stuffy or smoky rooms.

• Suck a piece of peeled ginger root.

• Ginger tea can be used freely to help. Ginger has been thoroughly researched over the years. A recent review of scientific evidence, published in the British Journal of Anaesthesia, found that ginger was beneficial in treating all kinds of nausea. To make a tea, pour boiling water over a teaspoon of freshly grated ginger root. You can also add the juice of half a lemon and sweeten with honey if you like. In winter it’s a warmer, in the summer it can be a refreshing iced tea. This mix has the bonus of helping to ward off low blood sugar, headaches and fatigue as well as relieving nausea.

• Avoid actually vomiting; try grasping your tongue with a piece of cloth and pulling gently but firmly.

• If you are vomiting a lot, try limiting your diet to a single food, one that you know you can tolerate. Add one additional food per day as you can tolerate them.

• Place a cool lavender scented compress on your forehead and a warm lavender compress over your rib cage.

• Get a massage with chamomile massage oil.

• Drink liquids between rather than with meals.

• Avoid greasy foods.

• Snack on ginger snap cookies, homemade and with real ginger, if possible. (recipe below)

• Chew peppermint gum.

• Get regular, gentle exercise.

• Preggie Pops. Morning Sickness Lollipops and drops: All Natural way to ease morning sickness. Helps alleviate dry mouth and give a quick energy boost. Available in Ginger, Mint, and Sour Fruit flavors. Also available in Sour Fruit Preggie Pop Drops.

• Increase your intake of vitamin B6. – B6 pops are available at the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ Marketplace

• Try taking your vitamins later in the day not in the morning and with a meal.

• Go nuts over almonds. They are high in B vitamins and contain fat and protein--what you and your baby need right now. And they help fulfill the requirement of small meals.

• Try changing your iron supplement.

• Give in to your food cravings.

• Sip a carbonated beverage.

• Get plenty of fresh air.

• Try tart flavors; lemonade, sour pickles, etc.

• Don’t brush your teeth immediately after eating.

• Lie completely still with your eyes closed.

• Suck on frozen popsicles. (see recipes below)

• Vitamin B6: Taking Vitamin B6 (50 mg) daily has been shown to help with pregnancy-induced nausea.

• Acupuncture
One study looked at 88 pregnant women with hyperemesis, a severe form of morning sickness. Women received either an anti-nausea drug called metoclopramide or twice weekly acupuncture sessions for two weeks, plus acupressure. Both treatments were found to reduce nausea and vomiting intensity. Acupuncture was more effective than the drug in improving psychosocial functioning.

• Acupressure Wrist Bands
Acupressure wrist bands , often marketed as "sea bands", stimulate an acupuncture point called "pericardium 6" (p6), which is known in traditional Chinese medicine to relieve nausea. It is a wrist band with a plastic button that puts pressure on the p6 point inside of the wrist. They usually cost less than $10 for a pair and can be found online in the Alternative Health solutions of NJ Marketplace. It usually begins to work immediately.

• Ginger
Ginger is a common remedy for morning sickness. It has been used for centuries in cooking and medicinally. The Food and Drug Administration classifies ginger as "generally recognized as safe".
It's quite common for medical doctors, midwives, naturopaths, and other health practitioners to recommend ginger for morning sickness. Four double-blind, randomized clinical trials support this recommendation. The dose used in the studies was a total of one gram of ginger per day, taken in divided doses, for four days to three weeks. This is equivalent to half a teaspoon of ginger taken four times a day. It can be steeped with hot water for five minutes to make a hot ginger tea.

• The aroma of peppermint or lemon can help a queasy stomach. Fill a large bowl with hot water. Place two drops of peppermint or lemon essential oil in the bowl and place it on a table near your bed. Make sure it is in a safe area so there is no risk of it being knocked over. Or use an aromatherapy diffuser which also can be purchased at the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ Marketplace. Put three drops of lavender essential oil and one of peppermint in a the diffuser or humidifier to scent the air.

• Try peppermint. Aromatherapy has been used for centuries and can be very effective with morning sickness. Just as eating a peppermint lifesaver, or drinking a cup of peppermint tea might help to settle your stomach, so too can inhaling the scent of peppermint. Essential oils are very strong, and it only takes a drop or two before you notice their effects. One idea is to put a drop or two on a handkerchief and carry it in your purse or pocket. That way, you will have it readily on hand when you start feeling nauseous.

Below is some of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ favorite recipes that may help.

No Bake Peanut Butter Balls

Ingredients:

1/2 cup natural peanut butter
1/4 cup nonfat dry milk powder
1/4 cup unsweetened flaked coconut
1/3 cup rolled oats
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup wheat germ
1/4 cup finely chopped walnuts
1/4 cup unsweetened apple juice concentrate, thawed
Couple tablespoons honey

Directions:

Combine peanut butter, milk powder, and coconut in a large mixing bowl.
Stir in oats, ground cinnamon, wheat germ, walnuts, honey and apple juice concentrate until thoroughly combined.
Shape the mixture into 16 one-inch balls.
Chill thoroughly before serving, about an hour. Store remaining balls in the refrigerator.

Ginger Peach Pregnancy Popsicles

Ingredients:

4 peeled, pitted, ripe peaches
1 Tbsp. fresh, grated ginger
2¼ tsp. fresh lemon juice
1½ cups water

Directions:

Stir the peaches, ginger, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer, stirring frequently and breaking the peaches up a bit with a wooden spoon, until the mixture is thick. Transfer the mixture to a food processor and blend until smooth. Mix in the water and allow the mixture to cool to room temperature. Pour the mixture into Popsicle molds and freeze until just barely set so you can place the wooded sticks. Freeze for a couple more hours.

*** Peach Creamsicles – blend above with Greek yogurt and then freeze.

Ginger Snap Cookies

Ingredients:

2 1/2 cups organic whole wheat pastry flour
2 tablespoons organic ground flaxseed
1 teaspoon non-aluminum baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon Eden Sea Salt
1 1/4 teaspoons ground ginger
3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3/4 cup organic maple syrup
3/4 cup minced organic crystallized ginger
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup applesauce

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°. Mix all dry ingredients together. Mix all wet ingredients together. Combine dry and wet ingredients, and mix well. Lightly oil two baking sheets with safflower oil, and scoop out 1 tablespoon of cookie dough for each cookie and place them 1 inch apart on the cookie sheets. Bake 15 minutes, until lightly browned on the bottom. Remove and allow cooling on a cookie rack.
Makes 2 dozen cookies

More Bella Belly Bump at:
Bella Belly Bump; Pregnancy & Labor Marketplace
Bella Belly Bump on Myspace
Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Doulas.com

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com/

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Why Buy and Eat Organic?

2010-09-10T11:10:00.004-04:00

What does “Organic” mean?

Food certified under U.S. Dept. of Agriculture regulations as organic must be produced without most synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Antibiotics, growth hormones, and feed made from animal parts are also banned.

Aren’t All Natural Foods Organic?

No, they’re not. Foods may be free of artificial ingredients, or labeled “natural”, but still grown by conventional methods. The term “organic” on the label means the food has been grown and processed according to strict guidelines, carefully documented and certified.

Is buying Organic worth the extra money?

Is organic worth the extra money? Research has yet to prove an adverse health effect from consuming the levels of the lowest pesticide load commonly found in U.S. food. But for the most vulnerable groups — children and pregnant women — going organic whenever possible for fruits and vegetables that carry the heaviest pesticide load makes sense. For organic meat, poultry, eggs, and milk, the direct health benefit is less clear. It might come down to your willingness to pay more to avoid supporting certain agricultural practices, such as antibiotic use in animals, which could promote resistant bacterial strains, or the use of growth hormones, which could prematurely wear down the animal.

Why Does Organic Food Cost More?

Along with the simple rules of supply and demand, we must remember that prices fluctuate in our economy. Organic food prices are coming down, on the whole, and are expected to continue as supply grows. Organic farming is also more labor-intensive than conventional farming, and usually takes place on a smaller scale than the so-called “chemical agribusiness” factory farms.

In the United States, conventional farming has often been subsidized by taxpayer funds through the government. Some believe that this keep the price of conventional food artificially low, not reflecting the true cost of bringing food to market. Costs are externalized. Organic farmers do not receive these subsidies, and thus the self price may actually reflect a truer market cost.

The long-term price of conventional farming, in terms of the damage to our soil, water, farmworkers’ and children’s health, and the loss of a family farm lifestyle, is great. We pay these costs when taxpayers fund environmental cleanup or health care costs. This must be taken into account when measuring the costs and benefits of buying organic and our bodies.

What if a label says “pesticide-free,” not “organic” — what’s the difference?

Pesticide-free is just that, but you have to take it on faith. The producers aren’t inspected to make sure they’re doing what they say while Organic producers are inspected.

Are there nutritional benefits to eating organic fruits and vegetables?

Children who eat organic foods have lower levels of pesticides in their bodies than those fed industrial foods.

A few studies show that organic foods are higher in minerals and some vitamins, but the increments are small. The real point of organics is better production methods so fewer chemicals will be polluting the soil and water.

*For more information see links below

Top ways to buy Organic Food for less money:

1. Shop at farmers’ markets.
2. Buy a share in a community-supported agriculture program.
3. Join a co-op.
4. Join a buying club.
5. Buy in bulk.
6. Buy big in-season.
7. Grow your own.

Top Fruits and Vegetables To Buy Organic (the list below contains items which are more likely to contain pesticides when purchased conventionally)

Strawberries
Raspberries
Apples
Grapes
Raisins
Grape Juice
Peaches
Nectarines
Apricots
Pears
Cherries
Lemons
Limes
Bananas
Kiwis
Cantaloupes
Tomatoes

Potatoes
Carrots
Corn
Celery
Cucumbers
Spinach
Green & Red Bell Peppers
Lettuce
Hot Peppers
Green Beans
Hard Winter Squash

OTHER

Rice
Oats
Milk
WILD Salmon
GMO – like Corn and Soy

Learn more:

USDA — ams.usda.gov
The Web site of the agricultural marketing service division of the USDA has the complete list of organic standards and a handy map of farmers’ markets nationwide.

Local Harvest — localharvest.org
Head here for a directory of small farms and farmers’ markets anywhere in the country. There’s also an online store with products from family farms.

Organic Consumers Association — organicconsumers.org

Check out the Web site of this grassroots organization for information on the politics of organic and sustainable agriculture, and for the latest organic news.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com/

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Acupuncture For Labor Induction

2010-04-12T16:55:00.000-04:00

Acupuncture for labor induction is safe for both the mother and baby as long as there are no serious complications with the pregnancy. It is most effective starting the week of the baby's due date. Several studies show a success rate of over 70%.

The most common Western method of labor induction uses synthetic Pitocin to jump-start labor. Pitocin will start contractions whether the mother's body is ready or not. Synthetic Pitocin also has other risks, including fetal distress and cardiac arrhythmia. In addition, most women find that Pitocin causes very intense and painful labor.

Labor induction with acupuncture stimulates uterine contractions and softens the cervix. The treatment starts a hormonal process which stimulates the mother's body to release prostaglandins and oxytocin, the natural hormone that Pitocin mimics. As a result, it is a much more gentle and natural process than Western induction. Because of this, the effects are not instantaneous, as they are in Western induction. Depending on how far into pre-labor the mother's body is determines the number of treatments needed. Some women only need one or two treatments, while others may need several treatments for real labor to start.

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)
©2008-2010
Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”
The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!
Fill out my form!

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY!

Myofascial Release for Back Pain

2010-04-10T08:55:00.000-04:00

Most cases of back pain are the result of repeated physical stress or chronic conditions. Pain can occur anywhere along the back, and it is most common in the lower back.

Myofascial Release (MFR) is a whole body, hands-on approach to treatment that produces a profound healing effect upon the body tissues, eliminates pain, and restores motion. It has been proven to alleviate pain throughout the body, including the back.

What is Myofascial Pain?

The word “myofascial” can be broken into two parts: “myo,” which refers to muscles, and “fascia,” which is the tough, dense connective tissue that stretches in a web-like fashion throughout the body and covers the muscles. The fascia surrounds every muscle, bone, nerve, blood vessel, and organ in the body, much like shrink wrap.

Fascia should be flexible and relaxed, able to move without restriction. In some people, such as those who have endured physical trauma, repetitive stress injuries, scarring, inflammation, or have maintained poor posture, the fascia becomes less pliable. When it loses its flexibility, it then becomes a source of tension for the whole body. Traumatized fascia can exert excessive pressure that produces pain or a decreased range of motion, affects flexibility and stability, and even hinders the ability to cope with strain and stress.

How Does Myofascial Release Help Back Pain?

Depending upon the nature of the back pain, the myofascial therapist will target different muscles and muscle groups for breaking up adhesions in the fascia. As these adhesions are released, the pain disappears and normal functioning of the muscle returns.

Upper back pain often is a result of restrictions in the rhomboids, trapezius, and levator scapulae—all of which also attach to the neck. Midback pain is impacted by muscles including the erector spinae, serratus muscles, and latissimus dorsi. For low back pain, the myofascial release therapist may work with the extensor, flexor, and/or oblique muscles found in the low back, hip, and abdominal areas, most notably the quadratus lumborum, rectus abdominis, psoas, and piriformis.

The extensor muscles, attached to the back of the spine, enable standing and lifting objects. These muscles include the large paired muscles in the lower back (erector spinae), which help hold up the spine, and the gluteal muscles found in the hips. The flexor muscles (including the abdominal muscles), attached to the front of the spine, enable flexing, bending forward, lifting and arching the lower back. Finally, the oblique muscles are attached to the sides of the spine and help rotate the spine and maintain proper posture.

What Happens at a Myofascial Release Treatment Session?

The myofascial therapist will first evaluate the fascial system by visually observing the physical frame and by palpating, or feeling, the tissue texture and various fascial layers. When the therapist has determined where the fascial restrictions lie, he or she will apply gentle pressure in the direction of the restriction, maintaining the gentle pressure until barrier upon barrier is released and freedom is felt.

Specific techniques used are soft-tissue mobilization, releasing of trigger points found in the previously mentioned muscle groups, craniosacral manipulation, and myofascial unwinding. Soft-tissue mobilization techniques break up surface-level cross-restrictions of the collagen. The therapist can then move in more deeply with myofascial release to break down barriers within the deeper layers of the fascia, resulting in changing the viscosity of the ground substance. Once the fascia is able to unwind from abnormal twists and turns, the client usually experiences greater structural integrity and better functioning of the nerves, organs, vessels, and glands.

In addition, those receiving treatment may receive education on proper body mechanics and wearing appropriate shoes. Special stretches and exercises may be recommended, along with relaxation techniques such as meditation and deep breathing. Finally, the therapist may also provide
additional resources for modalities such as acupuncture and or chiropractic care.

Is Myofascial Release Safe for Relieving Back Pain?

Myofascial release appears to be a safe health-care approach if provided by a properly trained practitioner. Practitioners, who often include physicians, physical therapists, and massage therapists, are versed in avoiding areas of caution and ensuring emotional safety, comfort, and privacy with pillows and draping. It is important to note that there may be some physical discomfort in the process of releasing long-held adhesions in deep layers of fascia.

What Causes Back Pain?

There are a number of reasons why a person may experience back pain. Physical stress can occur as a result of a lack of exercise, weight gain (especially in the abdomen), and incorrect posture. All of these situations can put a back’s natural curves out of alignment.

Some people experience strains, sprains, or spasms. These usually result from lifting, bending, twisting, sitting, or standing incorrectly. In these circumstances, pain may occur immediately or several hours later.

Herniated disks can bring about back pain. In this condition, a disk or disks in the spine bulge or even break. A common result is pressing, or “impinging,” on a spinal nerve. Impingement can cause numbness or shooting pain in the arms or legs. Sciatica is a condition in which the sciatic nerve is pinched or irritated. This often causes pain that runs down the lower back and down one leg.

The wear and tear of osteoarthritis can also cause back pain. With age, disks may narrow and vertebrae may develop bony growths. These can rub together resulting in back pain and stiffness.

Emotional stress and tension also can take a toll on the back, causing the muscles to tense. This increases the likelihood of pain or muscle spasms. It also may make any existing symptoms worse.

A variety of other health conditions can cause back pain. These include osteoporosis, or brittle bones. Cancer, infection, and other health problems can also be the cause. Additionally, structural problems, such as lordosis (commonly referred to as “swayback”) or scoliosis, a sideways curve in the spine, can cause back pain. Finally, due to weight gain and changes in posture, pregnancy often precipitates back pain in expectant mothers.

Call Alternative Health Solutions of NJ for properly trained caring experienced Myofascial Release therapists. Source: altmed.com

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)
©2008-2010
Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”
The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!
Fill out my form!

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY!

April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome Awareness Month

2010-04-05T15:33:00.000-04:00

April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome Awareness Month! Stress is feeling mentally or emotionally tense, troubled, angry,overwhelmed--and can cause or worsen symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome. Both the National Institutes of Health Consensus Panel and the World Health Organization,using different criteria, have identified many different conditions as appropriate for acupuncture treatments, including several that directly pertain to IBS: Abdominal pain, Muscle cramping, Constipation, and Diarrhea.

In addition, acupuncture has also been deemed effective as a means of stress reduction, and at addressing related problems that are often triggers for IBS symptoms, such as: Anxiety, Insomnia, Nervousness, Menstrual cramps, and Premenstrual syndrome.

To help IBS patients, I have also heard recommended a combination of treatments, that included changes in diet, stress reduction from routine massage therapy sessions, and supplements such as evening primrose oil, peppermint, and probiotics. I have heard the oil supplements help calm down the gut, and probiotics restore the good balance of bacteria in the digestive system.

Evening primrose oil comes from the seed of a small yellow wildflower, and borage oil comes from the seed of a common weed. Both supplements are similar in nature. Some proponents say evening primrose oil can help improve IBS symptoms, especially in women who experience a worsening of pain, discomfort, and bloating during their menstrual period.

Peppermint oil is widely used for irritable bowel syndrome. It is thought to reduce the abdominal pain and bloating of irritable bowel syndrome, possibly by blocking the movement of calcium into muscle cells in the intestines and easing excessive muscle contraction there. Peppermint is considered a carminative herb, which means that it is used to eliminate excess gas in the intestines. Eight out of twelve studies on peppermint for irritable bowel syndrome have found that it is more effective than a placebo. Although peppermint oil is available in many forms, it should only be used in enteric-coated capsules otherwise the oil can relax the lower esophageal sphincter and cause heartburn.

Probiotics are live microbial organisms that are naturally present in the digestive tract and vagina. Sometimes referred to as "friendly" bacteria, probiotics are thought to promote health include suppressing the growth of potentially harmful bacteria, improving immune function, enhancing the protective barrier of the digestive tract, and helping to produce vitamin K. There are over 400 species of microorganisms in the human digestive tract and the balance between beneficial bacteria and potentially harmful bacteria is important. One theory is that people with irritable bowel syndrome may have an imbalance in their normal intestinal bacteria, with an overgrowth of gas-producing bacteria. Studies have found that probiotics may be helpful for people with irritable bowel syndrome. For example, a fairly large study published in the American Journal of Gastroenterology examined the use of three different doses of Bifidobacterium infantis or a placebo in 362 women with irritable bowel syndrome. After four weeks, the B. infantis dose of 1 x 10(8) c.f.u. was found to be more effective than a placebo at reducing abdominal pain, bloating, bowel dysfunction, incomplete evacuation, straining, and gas.There are many different probiotic strains, and some may be more effective for irritable bowel syndrome. Another study compared lactobacillus salivarius, bifidobacterium infantis, or a placebo in 77 people with irritable bowel syndrome. Only people who took B. infantis had a greater reduction in abdominal pain, bloating, and bowel movement difficulty.

Trying a lactose-free diet may be beneficial. In a small study of IBS sufferers, 51 percent reported relief of IBS symptoms after completely eliminating dairy products from their diet.

Testimonial: Fred from Monmouth County "I felt totally different after the session of acupuncture and I had no discomfort for about 18 hours. I am due to go for a second session of acupuncture soon. I am hoping that the positive effects will be reinforced. Certainly this has been the most promising treatment to date."

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)
©2008-2010
Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”
The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY!

Sunflower Greens Grow N ' Eat

2010-03-27T16:40:00.000-04:00

Sunflower Greens are one of the best things you can add to your living food diet to improve your overall health and well being, they are delicious, nutritious, they make for a beautiful presentation and they are fun to grow.

Use sunflower greens as a great addition to salads, juices, sandwiches and wraps, of course you can also just eat them by themselves. Sunflower greens are a nutritional powerhouse packed with vitamins A, B complex, D, and E; they also contain minerals including calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus and zinc. In addition to these vitamins and minerals, sunflower greens are a rich source of lecithin which helps break down fatty acids into an easily digestible water soluble form, and chlorophyll which benefits many functions within the body, including building blood supply, revitalizing tissue, calming inflammation, activating enzymes,
and deodorizing the body.

Sunflower green are a fantastic source of protein and can easily supply you
with great protein your body can use!

You can harvest a new crop every 7 to 8 days.

Sprouting the Seeds

Acquire good quality seeds (with hulls), rinse them once or twice and then soak them overnight in a container suited for sprouting (just about any container will work). The next morning, drain off the water and rinse them a few times. Place the container full of rinsed seeds in a dark place, take them out and rinse and drain two or three times a day and in a day or two they will start to
grow shoots or “tails”. When the shoots are about a1/2 to 1 inch long the seeds are
ready to be planted.

Growing the Greens

Select an indoor location with moderate sunlight and good air circulation.

Add one inch of potting soil to a tray that is about two inches deep and has drainage holes.

Water the soil thoroughly, let the water drain and then tamp down the soil. Spread the sprouted seeds evenly over the soil and gently tamp them down. Cover the exposed sprouted seeds with 1/2 inch potting soil and tamp. Water as often as needed to keep the soil moist but not wet, be sure there is drainage to prevent the soil from becoming soggy.

Harvesting

Your sunflower greens will be ready to eat in about 7 days, you will know they are ready when they have grown two leaves. Harvest the greens before the 2nd or inner set of leaves appears.

Cut the greens above the soil level, wash and drain, remove any left over husks and they are ready to eat.

Storage

After washing and rinsing the greens, wrap them in a paper towel, place them in a plastic bag and then into the refrigerator, they will stay good for 7 to 10 days. You can re-rinse and re-wrap them every few days to keep them super fresh.

That’s it! You are now ready to enjoy this amazing great tasting source of energy!

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)
©2008-2010
Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”
The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!
Fill out my form!

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. Do it TODAY!

Acupuncture Will Help You Stop Smoking

2010-02-28T23:25:00.000-05:00

Today, there appears to be new hope for those who suffer from addictions to substances harmful to their health. Acupuncture is rapidly increasing in popularity as an effective aid in the control of many addictions—from serious ones involving alcohol and hard drugs to relatively less serious ones involving nicotine and overeating.

Excellent clinical evidence supports the use of acupuncture for addiction control. The first acupuncture detoxification clinic in the United States opened in 1974, at the Lincoln Memorial Hospital in the South Bronx section of New York City. At first, acupuncture was used as an adjunct to methadone treatment, but such good results were obtained with acupuncture that methadone was dropped from the program. According to Dr. Michael Smith, director, the success rate with acupuncture is substantially higher than that of more conventional programs. Unlike methadone, which is itself a highly addictive drug that is used primarily as a heroin substitute for heroin addicts, acupuncture is a natural procedure with no to very little side effects, and it can treat a wide range of addictions. It works equally well for cocaine and crack addicts, heroin addicts, alcoholics, users of psychedelics, and people addicted to barbiturates and amphetamines. Addicts report a marked reduction in craving for drugs, a relief from symptoms of withdrawal, and feelings of relaxation along with improved sleep. The success of this program has inspired the opening of public-funded acupuncture detoxification programs in San Francisco, Santa Barbara, Chicago, Portland, Miami and other locations.

There is strong physiological evidence supporting the use of acupuncture in this area. Research has shown that acupuncture can raise the level of endorphins in the nervous system. Resembling opiates in structure and function, endorphins are the body's natural pain killers. Their level is also increased by endurance exercises, and they are responsible for the phenomenon called "runner's high", a feeling of euphoria experienced by long-distance runners who have crossed the five-mile line. It seems that the cravings and withdrawal symptoms experienced by people giving up smoking or drugs can be alleviated by raising the level of endorphins in the nervous system. Some researchers also believe that the desire to eat is also mediated by the endorphin level in the brain, which would explain why acupuncture helps dieters to control their appetites.

Chinese Medicine has its own explanation of how acupuncture works. Chinese medical theory is based on the concept of yin and yang, which are dynamic and complementary opposites observed in all the processes of nature. In a healthy individual, yin and yang are in relative balance. Addicts often suffer from a deficiency of yin. Chinese medical theory, which comprehends the body metaphorically, relates yin to substance, quiescence, and the element of water. Yang relates to function, activity, and the element of fire. Yin nourishes, and yang consumes. When yin, or the water element, is deficient, fire is not held in check and rages out of control. Since it is the product of a deficit, it is called empty fire because it has no substance to fuel it. On a psychological level, such an imbalance creates feelings of emptiness and desperation. Physiologically, it manifests as frenetic hyperactivity. The addict is driven to use and abuse, but the drug exacerbates the fire and further depletes the yin; hence, the feeling of power he or she gains is exaggerated and merely temporary, leading to even more desperation.

The treatment involves nourishing the yin by treating points on the outside of the ear. Short, thin, sterile needles are inserted various points. Patients sit or lie comfortably for about twenty to thirty minutes. The treatments often have a profoundly calming effect on the mind and body, creating feelings of peace and well-being.

People addicted to hard drugs are advised to receive daily treatment until they are clean. They then receive treatments a couple of times a week for a while to help them to remain so. Alcoholics also require daily treatments during the initial period of treatment. To insure long-term abstinence, both groups are encouraged to seek counseling and participate in a support group. Interestingly, alcoholics receiving acupuncture during the withdrawal period rarely experience seizures.

Smokers are in a different category because nicotine is a much milder drug. It does not produce the dramatic effects of hard drugs, though it is probably just as addicting in a more insidious way. Smokers do not always need daily treatments and can usually kick the habit in a shorter period of time. After a few treatments, the craving for nicotine is usually sharply reduced. After several more treatments spread over a two-week period, seven out of ten patients will have managed to quit. Others will have drastically cut down on the number of cigarettes smoked daily.

Acupuncture is very effective in controlling addictions, and the drug problem in this country is a serious one.

Acupuncture is effective for many other conditions as well. Acupuncture has a 3000-year old history and has only recently been found to be useful for addictions. The World Health Organization lists over 40 disorders that respond favorably to acupuncture. Among these are chronic pain, injuries, back and neck pain, chronic fatigue, headaches, depression (mild), stress disorders, hypertension, insomnia, digestive disorders, pre-menstrual syndrome and other women's problems, constipation, allergies and the common cold.

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)
©2008-2010
Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”
The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

Contact Alternative Health Solutions of NJ. I will call you to make that appointment

Mercury: Health Topic

2010-02-28T20:14:00.000-05:00

Mercury is found naturally in the environment in several forms, but there is little doubt that mercury has one of the most unique physical properties of all metals. In its elemental form, mercury is one of the most unusual metals of all metallic elements. It is a shiny, silver-white, liquid yet contained solid metal used in thermometers, dental amalgams, inoculations / vaccinations, and some electrical switches. It can be combined with other elements to form inorganic compounds, and due to its unique physical property of being neither a solid nor a liquid, mercury has the ability to escort any compound into the hair-like crevices of any substance.

Mercury is assertive, movable and bioaccumulative (retained in organisms). Most of the mercury found in the environment is inorganic so it can enter the air from several sources such as emissions of coal-fired power plants, the burning of municipal and medical wastes, and natural processes such as erosion of ores and volcanic activity.

Mercury can evaporate to form colorless, odorless vapors. Mercury can combine with organic material to form organic compounds such as methylmercury (MeHg) which is produced primarily by bacteria, and poses great concern for environmental (fish) exposure.

Exposure to high levels of mercury can create health dangers in the following ways:

* Elemental mercury vapor can result in nervous system damage including tremors and mood and personality swings.
* Exposure to relatively high levels of inorganic mercury salts can cause kidney damage.
* Adult exposure to relatively high levels of methylmercury through fish consumption can result in numbness or tingling in the extremities, sensory losses, hormonal imbalances, and loss of coordination.
* Exposure by the developing fetus through maternal intake of contaminated fish can result in neurological developmental abnormalities in cognitive and motor functions.

The nature and severity of health symptoms depend on the amount of exposure.

Methylmercury (an organic form of mercury) is spread through the food chain and is retained in the bodies of the animals exposed to it. It reaches its highest levels in large predatory fish, and in birds and mammals (humans) which consume the fish. Levels of methylmercury in fish are typically 100,000 times greater than the water in which they swim.

Mercury in the form of methylmercury is one of the greatest concerns to human beings (and domestic pets fed canned tuna), as the common route of exposure is ingestion. Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulations prohibit the sale of commercial fish that are found to have high concentrations of methylmercury. Also, state and federal authorities issue public health advisories when needed to warn people about eating fish caught from local waters that are contaminated with mercury.

Mercury released from dental amalgam fillings can accumulate over time in the brain, pituitary gland, adrenals, and other parts of the body. Mercury from fillings in pregnant women has been shown to cause marked mercury accumulation in the brain, in the kidneys, and liver of human fetuses. Studies have shown that mercury can also be passed to infants through breast milk.

Some metals are necessary for body function as these are natural elements our bodies need. But most heavy metals are toxic when inorganic or at high levels, and can cause various disease syndromes, thyroid problems, learning disabilities, neurological problems, hormonal imbalances, and many other health issues. Mercury toxicity can damage the heart, brain, lungs, kidneys, adrenal glands, pituitary and thyroid glands.

Heavy metals can be found in food, the air, in buildings, clothes, machinery, drinking water, dental work, and cooking utensils. The following is a list of some of the more common sources of mercury:

* Adhesives
* Air conditioner filters
* Body powders
* Broken thermometer
* Cosmetics
* Dental fillings
* Diuretics
* Fabric softeners
* Felt floor waxes
* Polishes
* Fungicides
* Industrial wastes
* Inoculations
* Vaccinations
* Laxatives
* Mercurochrome
* Paints
* Photoengraving
* Psoriatic ointments
* Seafood
* Sewage disposal
* Skin lightening cream
* Tanning leather
* Tattooing
* Wood preservatives

Mercury poisoning often goes undetected for years because the symptoms presented within the body do not necessarily suggest mercury poisoning at first. Too many times, people justify health symptoms as due to stress when heavy metals are at the root of illness all along. Many factors determine risk from exposure including:

* The dose
* The duration
* The type of contact

The developing fetus and young children are a higher risk population for mercury poisoning because mercury in the mother may enter the unborn child and the breast-feeding infant. Young children are at risk because their nervous systems are still developing and have a lower body weight compared to adults.

Exposure and health risks can be determined by measuring the amounts of mercury in the blood, urine, breast milk, and hair.

Since heavy metals are not metabolized by the body but accumulated in the tissues, many essential nutrients from the daily diet are prevented from being absorbed properly by the tissues through digestion. So what came first - bad digestion due to toxic metals or toxic metal build-up due to bad digestion? It may be hard to know for sure, but like a lead shield blocks dangerous X-rays, heavy metals within the human body block electrical signals (nerves), oxygen flow, nutrient intake, and the excretion of wastes, preventing the normal circulation of nutrients and their by-products.

So, it appears that the heavy metals provoke bad digestion, chronic inflammation, an increase in acidity, and a breakdown in the immune system, which can lead to chronic disease such as arthritis, Fibromyalgia, MS, Autism , and cancer.

Common symptoms of heavy metal toxicity include:

* Depression
* Headaches
* Digestive problems
* High blood pressure
* Fatigue
* Irregular heart beat
* Muscle pain
* Brain fog
* Constipation
* Hormonal imbalances

When considering a heavy metal detox program, it's important to check out all sources of mercury first. A qualified dentist who specializes in proper amalgam removal should remove any leaking dental amalgam fillings. Drink plenty of purified water, use only natural deodorants and cosmetics, avoid antacids and cigarette smoking, and replace aluminum cookware with stainless steel.

Detox often if exposed to roofing materials, petroleum products, or if you live or work near any place that emits or handles dangerous toxic chemicals.

Some safe and effective methods of eliminating heavy metals are:

* Alpha Lipoic Acid serves as an antioxidant
* Apple pectin binds and eliminates heavy metals through the colon
* B3 Niacin eliminates toxins from the blood through the pores of the skin
* Cilantro binds to remove metals through the urine
* Chlorella and sea algae bind and remove toxins while replacing critical minerals and nutrients
* Digestive enzymes increase elimination of toxins through the bowels
* French Green Clay binds and eliminates metallic substances and microbes through the colon
* Milk Thistle stimulates detoxification within the liver and supports the liver while cleansing and detoxifying
* Vitamin C binds and eliminates toxins through the urine

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)
©2008-2010
Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”
The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

Contact Alternative Health Solutions of NJ. I will call you to make that appointment

Prevent Snow-shoveling Injuries

2010-02-10T10:20:00.000-05:00

Clearing away mounds of snow can be more than just a pain—it can also be dangerous. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) warns that snow shoveling can be hazardous to your back, shoulders and wrists if you don't take proper precautions. Improper use of tools, along with over-extension and overexertion of muscles, can increase your risk of muscular and skeletal injuries.

To minimize risks, the AAOS offers a number of helpful tips for safe snow clearing, including:

* Check with your doctor before shoveling. This activity places high stress on your heart. If you have a medical condition or don’t exercise regularly, consider hiring someone to remove the snow.

* Dress appropriately. Light, layered, water-repellent clothing provides both ventilation and insulation. It’s also important to have warm headgear, mittens or gloves, and thick, warm socks. Wear shoes or boots with slip-resistant soles.Keep the back of your neck covered.

* Warm up your muscles. Shoveling can be a vigorous activity. Before you begin, warm up your muscles for 10 minutes with light exercise.

* Look where you’re shoveling. Don’t let a hat or scarf block your vision, and watch out for ice patches and uneven surfaces.

* Use the right shovel. Your shovel should be comfortable for your height and strength. Don’t use one that’s too heavy or too long. Space your hands on the shovel handle for better leverage.

* Lift properly. It’s best to push the snow, but if you must lift, do it properly. Squat with your legs apart, knees bent and back straight, and lift with your legs, without bending at the waist. Don’t try to remove deep snow all at once, but a little at a time.

* Don’t throw snow. Scoop small amounts of snow into the shovel, and walk to where you want to dump it. Don’t throw the snow over your shoulder or to the side—this requires a twisting motion that stresses your back. Don’t extend your arms with a shovelful of snow, because this puts too much weight on your spine.

* Clear snow early and often. Begin when a light covering of snow is on the ground to avoid shoveling packed, heavy snow.

* Pace yourself. Snow shoveling is an aerobic activity, comparable to weightlifting. Take frequent breaks and drink fluids to prevent dehydration. If you experience chest pain, shortness of breath or other signs of a heart attack, call 911 or other emergency help immediately.

To recover from snow removal seek after care from a Chiropractor, Acupuncturist, or Massage therapist.

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)
©2008-2010
Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”
The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

Acupuncture and Herbs For Lyme Diesease

2010-01-21T15:08:00.000-05:00

Lyme disease seems to be on many peoples minds in the last few days. Once within a host, the spirochetes multiply and act like the bacteria they are as well as parasites. Their favorite hosts are humans, horses and dogs. The symptoms and long-term effects can be debilitating, especially the arthritic symptoms and neurological problems. It is well known that antibiotics can be quite effective if given within the first month of infection. We also know that antibiotics are sometimes ineffective with some people. Lyme disease in some people has not been found, however, until many weeks and, sometimes, months have gone by which lessen the effects of antibiotics on killing the spirochetes. I have found that a combination of acupuncture and massage with herbs can lessen the painful symptoms of joint and muscular pain caused by Lyme disease. Acupuncture also helps with the neurological symptoms people and dogs experience. My best conclusion is to keep our immune systems very strong before being infected. The Lyme spirochetes like sugars and trans-fats so minimize those in your diet. They do not like a strong immune system. Therefore, consider boosting your immune system every chance you get by reducing stress, taking strong antioxidants and herbs such as astragalus. In order to reduce stress, consider regular massage, acupuncture, meditation, yoga and/or Qigong / Tai Chi.

A number of Chinese herbs can be useful for the many different facets of Lyme Disease. Lyme Disease is a bacterial infectious disease caused by the spirochetal organism, Borrelia Burgdorferi. It is usually caused by a tick bite but also in other ways. The prevalence of the disease is greatest in the northeastern United States, but there have been cases of the illness in all lower 48 states. The disease is easy to treat with antibiotics in its initial stages, but it is often not detected at that point. There is a bull’s eye rash that is characteristic of the disease, but many many people never get the rash. The rash looks different in people with darker pigmentation, making it easy to mistake it for other skin conditions, including bruising or eczema. The wide variety of symptoms that a person can have in its later stages makes it hard to obtain a proper diagnosis, and the medical testing for the illness is still not very accurate in many cases.

People with later stages of Lyme need treatment on a number of different levels. At the very basic level, herbs that are anti-bacterial, specifically against spirochetal bacteria, are an important component of treatment. Herbs that have been shown to have activity against spirochetal bacteria include coptis (huang lian), andrographis paniculata (chuan xin lian), isatis (ban lan gen/qing dai), phellodendron (huang bai), scute (huang qin), forsythia (lian qiao), smilax (tu fu ling), and gardenia (zhi zi). Garlic is also a useful antibacterial supplement for those with Lyme Disease.

Lyme disease can lower body temperature and create poor blood circulation. A person is also likely to feel cysts, lumps, and swellings in different areas of their body that often change and move. The bacteria walls itself off, and creates an environment in which it can grow and thrive and the person with the disease ends up in severe pain, with horribly low energy, and neurological problems. The disease thrives in a low temperature, low oxygen environment, and that is the environment it creates within the body. People with the disease often have signs and symptoms similar to someone with severe altitude sickness (also caused by a low oxygen environment). Chinese herbs that clear blood stasis and break blood stagnation can be very useful for this aspect of the disease. The herb, pseudoginseng (san qi), can be extremely beneficial for people with Lyme Disease. It promotes blood circulation and oxygenation in the body, and can force open the cysts that protect the bacteria from being killed off. It also can help clear some of the brain fog that people with this disease have by improving blood circulation and oxygenation to the brain. Frankincense (ru xiang), and myrrh (mo yao) can also help by improving blood circulation, especially to the joints, where the bacteria often hides in cartilaginous tissue where blood circulation tends to be poorer. An herb that is frequently used by people with Lyme Disease, teasel root, is beneficial because it improves circulation in the body and also has a warming affect. All of these herbs can help significantly with the intense and chronic pain that those with later stages of Lyme disease experience.

Certain Chinese herbs can be used to reduce the person’s sensitivity to cold and improve microcirculation in the body. Herbs such as clove, cinnamon, ginger, and siegesbeckia can be useful for this purpose.

The lymphatic system and the metabolism are often compromised in people with Lyme Disease. The bacteria frequently hides inside the walls of white blood cells, and results in swollen and congested lymph glands. People with the disease often have symptoms of hypothyroidism and a slowed metabolic rate even if all of their thyroid tests are normal. In Chinese Medicine, herbs that treat phlegm are frequently used for conditions related to a slow metabolism and a congested lymphatic system. The Chinese herb, prunella vulgaris (xia ku cao), and scrophularia (xuan shen) are very useful for inflammation, congestion, and infection of the lymphatic system. Herbs such as citrus aurantium, kelp, epimedium, and Siberian ginseng, can be beneficial for improving a sluggish metabolism in people with Lyme Disease who have signs or symptoms of an underactive thyroid.

Another aspect of Lyme Disease is severe and debilitating fatigue and a total lack of energy. This can be due to a host of different factors. Poor oxygenation and blood circulation and lowered metabolism and body temperature are part of the picture. The person’s adrenal glands may not be functioning properly either. Someone with Lyme Disease may also have a host of digestive problems that result in a lack of adequate nutrition. The disease itself can trigger chemical changes in the brain that create severe depression and an inability to concentrate, which is debilitating as well.

In Chinese medicine, herbs that nourish the qi and blood can help this lack of energy. The herbs can improve the person’s digestive functioning, support the functioning of the brain, support proper functioning of the adrenal glands, and improve the person’s ability to handle stress. They can also help the proper functioning of the mitochondria in their production of ATP in the cells, which helps a person’s energy at a very fundamental level. Siberian ginseng, schizandra, licorice, and astragalus are all good herbs for improving a person’s energy level, digestive functioning, and their ability to handle stress. White peony, dong quai, and wolfberry nourish the blood and reduce fatigue. Polygonum and eucommia can help improve a person’s adrenal response and can improve brain functioning. Bupleurum, longan fruit, zyzyphus seed, dragon bone, oyster shell, and magnolia bark can be beneficial for the depression, anxiety, lack of concentration, and sleep problems that people with Lyme Disease experience.

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)
©2008-2010
Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”
The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

Chiropractic Kids

2010-01-21T15:04:00.001-05:00

Many people wrongly assume that children and infants don’t need chiropractic care, however adjusting a child’s spine is one of the best things you can do for your child. Chiropractic adjustments to children are very gentle and effective.

Almost all adults' spinal problems begin in early childhood. By getting children under chiropractic care, you can likely avoid the problems that many adults face (which is the reason they seek chiropractic care in the first place!). Providing care for their spines as early as possible is important and the practitioners with Alternative health Solutions of NJ feel you shouldn’t wait until children develop problems before trying to help them. Many adults suffer throughout their lifetime with problems that may have been avoided by seeking chiropractic care as children or teenagers.

Children grow at an incredible rate and they need to be free of any impediments to their proper development. As their bodies grow, so do any problems that are developing. Childhood is the time that simple, temporary problems become permanent. As the old saying goes, "As the twig is bent, so grows the tree." Do not allow your child to remain "bent."

Even the so-called “normal” birth experience can subject a newborn’s delicate spine to excessive pressure and stress, causing spinal nerve interference. This nerve interference (a vertebral subluxation) can affect the infant’s ability to express health to his/her fullest potential. Childhood is a very active time. Running, jumping, falls and accidents are all part of a normal childhood and yet they can cause spinal misalignments. Many parents believe the children are fine because there is no external evidence of injury or obvious symptom. However, resulting spinal injuries are often overlooked and many times are left uncorrected. These vertebral subluxations can block the natural flow of life across the nerves to any part of the body.

During delivery, typical long lever procedures by hand, forceps or vacuum extractor can exert tremendous stresses on a baby's delicate spinal structures. These types of procedures in delivery rooms can cause excess stress upon your newborn’s neck. Forces of 60-80 pounds of traction are considered normal in the delivery room. Medical researcher, Towbin, found that 80 pounds of force produced spinal cord hematoma and 120 pounds caused decapitation. I encourage all pregnant clients to seek as natural and healthy a delivery process as possible.

Early childhood is the next major hurdle that children go through. Kids have more falls, tumbles and strains in the first few years of life than in the rest of their entire lives. The National Safety Council reports in a study of 536 children that 50% had fallen head first from a high place in the first year of life. This can cause vertebral subluxations to their spine and most often go unnoticed. As the child grows up, they play sports, fall off bikes, fall off beds, etc., going through a typical, normal childhood. These minor disturbances to their spines add up slowly over time to cause problems, either as a child or adult. Remember this nerve interference (a vertebral subluxation) can affect the infant’s ability to express health to his/her fullest potential.

Studies show that women are able to carry and deliver their babies with more comfort when receiving chiropractic care. These adjustments are specifically tailored to the pregnant woman. Correcting vertebral subluxation ensures that both the expectant mother and her unborn child have the best opportunity to have a healthy pregnancy and birth. I believe strongly in the benefits of chiropractic care to the mother and unborn child.

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)
©2008-2010
Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”
The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

Superstar Supplement; Vitamin D

2010-01-15T10:41:00.000-05:00

You may remember the public health slogan, "Vitamin D helps build strong bones". This message could be seen on colorful school posters and heard on radio and television programs as early as the1950s. Getting enough Vitamin D was a major health issue, primarily for its role in preventing childhood rickets - "softening of the bones".

More recently, and quite dramatically, vitamin D has been strongly associated with reduced cancer risks, preventing autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, preventing cardiovascular disease, and even helping to prevent diabetes. Vitamin D seems to be a one-stop shop for helping combat many serious chronic diseases, and yet vitamin D deficiency is common in the United States. Very few foods are natural sources of vitamin D. The primary source of vitamin D for humans is sunlight - sunlight causes cells in the skin to produce vitamin D.

But most of us don't spend enough time outside to get sufficient sunlight to provide us with our normal daily requirement of vitamin D. Supplementation is needed, in the form of fortified foods such as milk and in vitamin/mineral tablets. Interestingly, meeting our vitamin D and calcium daily requirements is only one step on the road to healthy, strong bones. Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium from the intestinal tract. Also, vitamin D helps bone cells utilize calcium to build new bone. But - in adults, new bone will only be built if there's a need for it. Mechanical stress causes the body to produce new bone - and the best source for this kind of bone-building mechanical stress is exercise.

Yes, the E word. It's not enough to passively swallow a bunch of supplements every day. We need to exercise regularly to get the most out of the nutrition we're providing our bodies. When we exercise - particularly when we do strength training and other gravity-resisting activities such as running, walking, and bicycling - our bodies react not only by building new muscle but by building new bone as well. This response follows a physiologic principle known as Wolff's Law - bone remodels along lines of physiologic stress.

In other words, bone responds to mechanical challenges by building more bone. The result is more dense, stronger bones. Such bones are significantly less likely to fracture. And. logically, exercise helps prevent loss of bone mass, a primary cause of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women and older adults. Chiropractic health care helps provide assistance to these metabolic processes. All of our metabolic activities are directed by signals from the nerve system. Our nerve impulses tell our cells when to start and when to stop these complicated biochemical processes. Chiropractic care and acupuncture treatment helps ensure proper flow of information throughout the nervous system, helping us maintain optimal physical health and well-being.

Your complementary and alternative health practitioner is an expert in nutritional health and will be able to recommend a program and plan that will be right for you.

Source: Lins P: Vitamin D physiology. Prog Biophys Mol Biol 92)1:4-8, 2006
Cavalier E, et al:Vitamin D: current status and perspectives.Clin Chem Lab Med 47:1, 2009Holick Me, Chen TC: Vitamin D deficiency: a worldwide problem with health consequences. Am J Clin Nutr 87(4):10805-10865, 2008

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)
©2008-2010
Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”
The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

Root Vegetables with Kale Toss

2010-01-05T22:31:00.000-05:00

Ingredients:
1 bunch green or purple kale
1 medium parsnip, chopped into bite-size pieces.
1 medium turnip, chopped into bite-sized pieces.
2 medium red potatoes, chopped into bite-sized pieces.
1 medium sweet potato, chopped into bite-sized pieces.
1 small yellow onion, diced.
3 cloves garlic, diced
olive oil
balsamic vinegar
dash of pepper
water

Directions:

Clean kale and shop into bite sized pieces. In a large pot add a small amount of water (1/4 - 1/2 inch deep is fine). Bring water to a boil. If you have a steamer place it into the pot at this time. Put the kale, parsnip, turnip and potato into the pot. Then turn down the heat to low boil and cover the pot. In a small skillet, heat 1 - 2 tsp olive oil. Add the onion and garlic and saute until soft. Remove the onion and garlic from the heat when done cooking. In the meantime, keep an eye on the kale and root vegetables. When the kale is thoroughly cooked and the root vegetables are soft but not mushy turn off the heat. Put the kale and root veggies in with the onions and garlic, a swig or two or three of the balsamic vinegar ( depending on how vinegary you like things), pepper to taste and toss everything together. Put the kale and root veggies in a large serving bowl. Serve warm. This is especially good served with crusty whole wheat vegan bread or brown rice/quinoa or as a side dish. Yum!!! And nutritious too!

P.S. If you don't use a steamer, save your cooking water for use in a soup.

Serves: 2 - 4

Preparation time: 30-40 minutes

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)
©2008 - 2010

The Use of Acupuncture in Drug Addiction Treatment

2010-01-02T00:24:00.001-05:00

Alternative medicine in the United States is a billion-dollar industry. A 1993 study published in The New England Journal of Medicine found that the American public spent almost as much out of pocket money on alternative medicine in 1990 ($10.3 billion) as they did on hospitalizations ($12.8 billion). In fact, the study estimated that people made more visits to unconventional therapy providers (425 million) than they did to primary care physicians (388 million).[1] Viewed with skepticism by some, and virtually unknown to many, alternative medical techniques deserve serious attention.[2]

Acupuncture, now one of the most popular forms of alternative medicine, was virtually unknown in the United States until recently.[3] In 1971, James Reston, one of the New York Times' most respected journalists, was traveling in China when he was stricken with acute appendicitis. His subsequent article on the use of acupuncture as an anesthetic turned his misfortune into the spark of much Western interest in acupuncture and other Chinese medicines.[4]

Serious medical research and experimentation with the healing powers of acupuncture has led to the discovery of a highly promising weapon in the fight against chemical dependency. Though there is a consensus in the medical community that more reliable scientific data on the subject need to be collected, anecdotal evidence and clinical success stories strongly suggest that acupuncture can alleviate many of the serious symptoms of withdrawal, thus facilitating detoxification and encouraging acute addicts to continue treatment.

Recent enthusiasm for acupuncture treatment has encouraged some detoxification clinics to incorporate it into their programs. Court systems in several major cities have created "drug courts," in which a program of intensive counseling and treatment, sometimes including acupuncture, is substituted for traditional prosecution. The need for more effective approaches in dealing with repeat drug offenders, combined with the relatively low cost of maintaining clients in drug court programs, makes some law enforcement officials hopeful that acupuncture will be an effective part of the solution for addicts who find the lure of substance abuse more powerful than the threat of incarceration.

What is Acupuncture?
The aims and approaches of Chinese medicine are utterly unlike those of Western medicine, which presents a major barrier in attempting to synthesize acupuncture and contemporary American addiction treatment. The radically different nature of the Chinese approach to healing makes many Western observers skeptical of the entire process; others expect a miracle cure that acupuncturists themselves do not promise.

A technical review on the subject of acupuncture use in detoxification programs, sponsored by the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) in 1991, stated the problem this way:

It is clear that some of the reasons for the wide divergence of opinion regarding the efficacy of acupuncture result from the non-standard terminology used to describe it, the wide range of procedures that have been called acupuncture, the lack of a clear mechanism to explain the purported benefits of acupuncture treatment and perhaps most importantly, the lack of systematic clinical research in this area.[5]

It is important for practitioners of Western medicine, therefore, to understand the underlying theory of acupuncture before it can have a practical application in detoxification clinics and drug courts.

In the language of Chinese medicine, acupuncture is the stimulation of "Qi" (pronounced "chee"), by the insertion of needles into "meridians," or vein-like routes under the surface of the skin. Both Qi and the meridias that carry it are invisible. There is no true English translation for Qi, but "vital energy" is often used.[6] When functioning normally, Qi warms and protects the body, smooths the various transitions of the body from one state to another, and governs retention of the body 's substances and organs.[7] Traditional Chinese medicine functions under the assumption that sickness is caused by the inability of Qi to flow freely through meridians. Acupuncture needles unblock the meridians and stimulate the flow of Qi.[8]

In spite of the fact that Qi is a concept not widely accepted outside the world of Chinese medicine, a number of modern developments have helped to synthesize the collected wisdom of Chinese medicine with Western diagnostic techniques, increasing Western acceptance of acupuncture. Recent research suggests, for example, that the insertion of acupuncture needles stimulates the body's production of beta-endorphins.[9] If this is true, the concept of an invisible life-force flowing through invisible pathways seems like a traditional explanation for a then-unknown physiological process.

Another important discovery occured in 1955, when French doctor Paul Nogier was testing for electrical activity on the skin's surface and found that every traditional acupuncture point on the body has a corresponding point on the human ear.[10] Since that discovery, auricular acupuncture, or needle stimulation of points on the ears, has become by far the most popular method of treatment. In the case of drug detoxification, auricular treatment offers the advantage of not requiring privacy, so that many people can be treated at once in the same room.[11]

Today there is debate about the most effective way to administer acupuncture, from the number of needles to their placement in the ear. The 1991 NIDA technical review came to the conclusion that in the interest of uniformity, controlled research conducted in the future should involve five needles in each ear, placed in the traditional acupuncture points: "kidney," "lung," "liver," "sympathetic," and "shenmen."[12] The panel found no reason to experiment with electrically charged needles, single-ear treatments, or deviations from the standard detoxification points.

Does acupuncture work to treat drug addiction?
Acupuncture is widely accepted by medical professionals in the United States as a safe treatment for chronic pain.[13] Other applications for acupuncture, such as relief of asthma, arthritis, nausea, and morning sickness are being explored by the scientific community.[14] In the case of drug addiction, conclusive scientific evidence of acupuncture's efficacy is scarce.

A 1989 study published in the British journal The Lancet by Milton L. Bullock concluded that acupuncture was highly effective in treating alcoholism. Eighty severe recidivist alcoholics were treated, receiving either correct-point acupuncture or acupuncture at non-specific points on the ear. 21 of the 40 treatment group patients completed the two-month program, while only one of 40 in the control group did. The control group patients experienced twice as many relapses in the six months following the experiment and the number of control group patients admitted to detoxification centers was well over twice that of treatment group patients.[15]

One analysis of the available research on acupuncture as part of a detoxification protocol published in the Journal of Substance Abuse Treatment called the results of the Bullock study encouraging. The analysis also cited seven experiments done on animals in which acupuncture effectively reduced withdrawal symptoms. Though the authors of this analysis are confident that acupuncture has more than a placebo effect, they suggest further research to confirm such findings.[16]

Though the Bullock study is promising, its reliability has been questioned. The NIDA technical review noted that a similar experiment performed in 1992 showed no significant difference between the true acupuncture and sham acupuncture groups. After a review of all existing studies with a similar focus, it found no conclusive proof that acupuncture is more effective than placebo in treating drug addiction.[17] Nevertheless, the review panel suggested that more research be performed in the area.

Acupuncture practitioners are reluctant to make broad, sweeping claims about their work. "I stop short of saying acupuncture is a panacea and can cure everything, because it's not and it can't," said Dr. Ken Carter, a psychiatrist and acupuncturist who works in a pre-trial detoxification clinic in the District of Columbia Superior Court.[18]

While acupuncture may not be a physiological cure for drug addiction, Dr. Carter told NewsBriefs it does have a soothing, relaxing effect which is extremely helpful to people experiencing any kind of lifestyle change, especially a change of the magnitude of drug withdrawal. However, to truly beat drug addiction, according to Dr. Carter, individuals need to learn to make decisions based on their own sense of self-worth and a confidence that they can change their environment.[19] Many practitioners like Dr. Carter feel that acupuncture is beneficial for addicts seeking this kind of change, even if too few controlled studies have been conducted to confirm that belief.

The Lincoln Clinic
The Lincoln Clinic in New York City is the premiere detoxification center utilizing acupuncture in the U.S. Its director, Dr. Michael Smith, says the need for effective substance abuse treatment in the clinic's neighborhood is evident:

The South Bronx is a racially marginalized, high poverty, high unemployment, high crime, high infant mortality, low literacy neighborhood devastated by several decades of substance abuse.[20]

When the doctors at the Lincoln Clinic read in 1974 that a neurosurgeon in Hong Kong, Dr. H.L. Wen, had noticed a reduction in the withdrawal symptoms of opiate-addicted patients to whom he had been giving acupuncture treatments, they decided to experiment with the procedure at what had been until then a methadone clinic.[21] Over the years they developed a protocol that they have taught to more than 500 clinicians in 150 different programs.[22]

The Lincoln Clinic protocol relies on four major tools in helping serious addicts recover: acupuncture detoxification, urine testing, individual counseling, and participation in 12-step group-based therapy.[23] Smith argues that the advantages of integrating acupuncture into more traditional treatment programs are overwhelming. The primary value of acupuncture, however, is that its immediate effect is often a cessation of withdrawal symptoms, encouraging patients to come again for treatment in the future.[24]

Smith cites a few remarkable statistics to support the effectiveness of the Lincoln Clinic method. Among pregnant women with a history of abusing crack cocaine, those who receive acupuncture have higher birth weight babies than those who do not receive the treatment. Mothers with more than 10 visits have babies with an average weight of 6lbs. 10oz, while those with less than 10 visits have babies weighing an average of 4lbs. 8oz.[25] A seven-day inpatient drug treatment program in Delaware using the Lincoln Clinic method reported a decline in rates of recidivism from 87% to 18% one year after the date of admission.[26]

Dr. Smith attributes this effectiveness to a number of factors. One of acupuncture's greatest strengths, he argues, is that it forges a bond between doctor and patient even before verbal communication is established: "acupuncture will be just as effective even when the patient lies to us."[27] Unlike verbal counseling, during which the patient may be in denial or feel angry or intimidated, acupuncture's immediate effects are not dependent on the cooperation of the patient.

As stated previously, acupuncture's primary effect is to stimulate relaxation. "In addition to reducing withdrawal symptoms acupuncture provides a strong calming effect on substance abusers and substantially reduces drug craving. Clients describe the effects of acupuncture as allowing them to feel relaxed yet alert," according to Dr. Smith.[28] That feeling of relaxation is the essential benefit of the acupuncture protocol. Unlike methadone treatment, acupuncture affects the patient's state of mind during withdrawal, not the body's need for a drug.

Drug Court
The reputed success of the Lincoln Clinic made an impact on Chief Judge Gerald Weatherington and Judge Herbert Klein of the Eleventh Judicial Circuit of Florida, founders of the country's first drug court in Dade County, Florida.

Weatherington and Klein recognized that their problems with overcrowded jails and high recidivism among drug offenders were not being solved by the judicial system as it then operated. The Dade County Drug Court, which accepted its first arrestees in 1989, allows people facing charges of buying or possessing drugs the opportunity to submit to intensive addiction treatment.[29]

Uncooperative arrestees are often persuaded by the threat of incarceration to undergo the outpatient treatment, even if that treatment includes something as unusual as acupuncture. The primary incentive to comply with the program is that successful graduates have their charges dropped.[30]

Statistics on drug court effectiveness from Dade County's program and others around the country are, like the studies designed to measure acupuncture's efficacy, promising but not conclusive. The rearrest rates in the year following release were 60 percent for people who served jail or prison sentences and 11 percent for graduates of drug court.[31] In a review of Dade County's program, however, the National Institute of Justice found that one of the major stumbling blocks in this approach to dealing with the drug problem is that treatment providers have very different expectations from those of the criminal justice system.[32] People who work daily to help rehabilitate serious addicts understand that it is a difficult process, and a relapse is not a total failure. The criminal justice system, seeing relapse as the equivalent to criminal recidivism, is much less tolerant in this regard. It is difficult to gauge the true effectiveness of a drug court, therefore, because criminal justice and treatment agencies have different concepts of success.

Though the effectiveness of drug courts is open to debate, programs that incorporate acupuncture into their outpatient treatments are almost certainly less expensive than traditional methods of punishment. Federal estimates project that drug treatment programs cost an average of $1,200 per person, substantially lower than the $20,000 it takes to keep a drug offender incarcerated for one year.[33]

While acupuncture is only one component of Drug Court in Dade County or the District of Columbia, administrators have a strong conviction that it is an important part of treatment. In the early part of the program, acupuncture is used to help the patient through detoxification. Later, acupuncture treatments are phased out as the patient stabilizes. In aftercare, acupuncture is seldom used. Instead, the program seeks to build a strong sense of self-reliance with literacy education, GED courses, and vocational training. [34]

Conclusion
The evidence supporting acupuncture's effectiveness in detoxification treatment is largely anecdotal, and despite its use in some clinics and drug court programs, acupuncture is still considered an alternative medicine. In the 1970s, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) ruled that acupuncture needles should be classified as "experimental" medical devices. That classification was a blow to the acupuncture industry since insurance companies, Medicare, Medicaid are reluctant to make payments for experimental treatments. A small group of the nation's leading acupuncturists petitioned the FDA in November 1994 to review its ruling. They are waiting for the FDA to decide.[35]

In the meantime, acupuncture continues to attract attention. One acupuncture convert is former United States Senator Dennis DeConcini. In 1994 he addressed the Senate with glowing praise of Dr. Xiao Ming Tian, the acupuncturist who treated DeConcini's neck pain. "His treatments relieved my pain and I do not hesitate to join other patients who have experience significant improvements under his care to pay tribute to him," DeConcini said.[36] Dr. Ming is the only practitioner employed by the federal government with a mandate to further explore the uses of acupuncture.

An important development in the field of acupuncture is a new study by Dr. Herbert Kleber of Columbia University's Center on Addiction and Substance Abuse. He is currently coordinating funding, including grants from the Hilton Foundation and NIDA, to do a large-scale, multi-site study of acupuncture's efficacy in treating drug addiction.

This comprehensive study will provide valuable information about acupuncture's usefulness in drug treatment. Regardless of the findings, however, more research on acupuncture and other forms of alternative medicine is needed and may reveal other secrets that Western medicine has yet to discover. Perhaps doctors in the United States will soon explain how 250 people experience the benefits of acupuncture at the Lincoln Clinic every day.

Seeking addiction treatment please contact Alternative Health Solutions of NJ
http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

by Judd Spray and Sharon Jones

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)
©

Michelle Leonard: Broken and Mending Bone Support Information

2010-01-02T00:21:00.000-05:00

If an injury involving a bone is very painful, and the person has difficulty moving the body part or bearing weight on it, the bone could be fractured. A doctor’s care should always be sought because correct assessment and proper setting of a fracture is very important for healing. Homeopathic remedies can ease the pain and swelling associated with broken bones, as well as help to accelerate the healing process.

The outer layer of the bone is a storehouse of mineral deposits. The inner layer is called the marrow. The red marrow makes red blood cells, while the yellow marrow is used to store fat. Bones continually undergo changes in a process called “bone remodeling.” Osteoclast cells break down old bone and osteoblast cells trigger new bone cells to form. As soon as a bone breaks, the osteoblasts get to work. Fibroblast cells create protein fibers called collagen. As bones heal, they form a matrix of osteoblasts, which later harden, or ossify, becoming bone. It takes three to four months to recreate the solid, stable bone in most cases. But some bones have more blood supply so they heal faster, for instance, toe bones, whereas wrist bones can take longer.

To speed bone healing, you can incorporate the following changes into your life:

LIFESTYLE

•Stop smoking. Smoking slows the blood flow to the bones, thereby slowing healing. Smokers take longer to heal broken bones. Many studies have shown that broken bones tend to take longer to heal if the injured person has been smoking. Cigarettes can also increase the risk of blood clotting, which may further reduce blood flow. Breakdown products of cigarette smoke include carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, nitrosamines and benzenes which can damage the cells that form the bone itself and can interrupt the healing process after a fracture or bone injury.

•Stop drinking. Alcohol slows the formation of the osteoblasts.

•Decrease or eliminate caffeine and carbonated drinks like coffee, tea, and colas which increase calcium excretion. Since your body needs all the calcium it can get to heal your bones, it is wise to minimize sources of calcium loss.

•To maximize the rate of healing it is helpful to avoid bone robbers such as sugar, salt, alcohol, caffeine, red meats etc.

NUTRITION

One of the most important influences on fracture healing is nutrition. The healing time for broken bones is influenced by a number of variables that nutrition can impact including blood supply. For example, the ends of long bones are vascular so they heal faster than the center. Certain types of food and exercise foster increased blood supply and hence time it takes to heal. Mobilization, i.e. weight bearing exercises and isometric exercises stimulates healing. Important Nutrition:

Protein
Because the bones need protein to build, add proteins to your diet. Meat, fish, soy, nuts, beans, and dairy are all good sources. Dairy has the added advantage of containing calcium.
I do suggest a good protein drink daily.

Calcium
Recommended dose (RDA) is 800-1200 milligrams a day for adults. There is no research to suggest that adding calcium speeds bone healing, but be certain to maintain normal intake levels because calcium is responsible for bone maintenance and repair.
Type of food Amount - Milligrams of Calcium
Non fat yogurt 1 cup 415
Sardines (Atlantic with bones) 3 oz 372
Collard Greens 1 cup 355
Pink Salmon (canned with bones) 6oz 334
Skim Milk 1 cup 302
Calcium Fortified Orange Juice 1 cup 302
Bok Choy 1 cup 250
Almonds 3 oz 198
Turnip Greens 1 cup 200
Soy Beans 1 cup 180
Broccoli 1 cup 180
Mustard Greens 1 cup 150
Black Molasses 1 tbsp. 140
Great Northern Beans 1 cup 140
Non fat Baked Beans 1 cup 130
Tofu 1 cup 130
Navy beans 1 cup 130
Corn Tortilla 1 tortilla 120
Kidney Beans 1 cup 115
Okra 1 cup 90
Acorn Squash 1 cup 90
Spinach (Cooked) 1 cup 74
Orange 1 med. 60
Raisins 1/4 22
Peanut butter 2 tbsp. 18

The key to better usage of your calcium intake is not just increasing the calcium but also increasing your ability to absorb the calcium.

Lysine is an amino acid that helps in the absorption of calcium. Lysine a protein building block, can increase the amount of calcium absorbed into the matrix according to Peter Furst, M.D.,PhD. in the Jan./Feb. 1993, Nutrition (9: 70-2). It is an essential amino acid necessary for the regeneration of tissues, and the building and healing of broken bones. Research studies show that lysine can increase the amount of calcium absorbed into the bone matrix. The amount in one particular study was 800 mg. As lysine promotes the formation of muscle protein, it may be important in healing after operations and injuries. There are a number of foods that can add lysine to your diet, such as low fat milk, fish, yeast, and soy products.

Vitamins

•Vitamin C is important link in the formation of collagen. Adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet can fill this need. Vitamin C is essential nutritionally to make the collagen that helps the body form healthy bones. It also promotes wound healing. You also can get numerous additional benefits from Vitamin C. For example, researchers at New Mexico Medical School found that adults with high blood levels of vitamin C scored higher on mental tasks than those with low levels of vitamin C.

•Vitamin D aids in calcium absorption. The latest suggestions for vitamin D consumption have raised the minimum required dose from 2,000 to 4,000 daily. Be sure to take in that much while healing bones.

•Vitamin K, found in leafy greens, also aids bone repair. Vitamin K, also called Menadione, is a very important fat-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in the regulation of normal blood clotting functions. We get vitamin K from several sources in our diet including dark leafy vegetables. Vitamin K also assists in converting glucose into glycogen for storage in the liver. Numerous studies indicate that it plays a role in forming bone formation and preventing osteoporosis. If you want to help bones heal faster, consider increasing your intake of Vitamin K rich foods.

Boron is important in bone healing because studies how show it reduces urinary excretion of calcium and magnesium and significantly increases blood levels of both estrogen and testosterone. The are many food high in boron. Apples are the highest.

Eat half pineapple every day until it's completely healed. It contains Bromelain, an enzyme that helps to reduce swelling and inflammation. Do not eat canned or processed pineapples. If you don't like fresh pineapple, take the supplement Bromelain. It has the same effect as pineapple.

HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT SUGGESTION FOR BROKEN BONES

As soon as the trauma occurs, begin daily treatment with Arnica 30c. When the swelling is reduced, continue taking Symphytum 30c daily until the bone is healed. Use other remedies as indicated by their modalities and symptoms.

Arnica
In any homeopathic first aid, Arnica is the first drug of choice. Its remarkable ability to reduce bruising and swelling from trauma has been well documented. Arnica can be used immediately after the break, to reduce swelling and vascular congestion.

Symphytum
The homeopathic remedy Symphytum, or Comfrey, has been known for centuries as Knitbone. It has a remarkable ability to speed the healing of bones. Symph is a great remedy when the bone refuses to knit together and also if the pain remains long after the fracture is healed. Herbalists have long used comfrey, or Knitbone. The roots and leaves contain Allantoin, used in wound healing. Culpepper suggested a salve made from powdered root in water applied externally. But the homeopaths have found Comfrey’s usefulness in broken bones when taken internally. Doses of Symph 30c taken daily have sped up bone healing by one-third.

Ruta
To treat bruised bones and for bones that are slow to repair. Ruta is also beneficial to the connective tissues around the bones and the periosteum. This remedy is indicated if the pains are worse from the cold and damp.

Calcarea phoshoricum
A homeopathic remedy also used as a tissue salt, sold in 3x potency. The salt is essential in facilitating the union of broken bones. The homeopathic indication for this remedy is bones that are slow to heal and a cold sensation in the limbs. The pain is worse at night and in cold, damp weather. CALCAREA CARB, CALCAREA PHOS, RUTA and SYMPHYTUM are all useful for bones that fail to heal.

Eupatorium perfoliatum
Known as Boneset, Eup perf heals the bones and the pain. The pain experienced by a person needing this remedy is a deep soreness, as if beaten, that are worse by motion and in the morning.

Take the remedy which is similar to your symptoms described above.

No side effects or complications if taken as directed, please do not exceed the given dosage as directed on packaging. Avoid Chocolates, Mints, Coffee, Red Meat, Alcoholic and Carbonated drinks, Spicy Rich Food while taking any Homeopathic remedies, and keep the medicines away from direct sunlight, heat strong smells and perfumes and do not store them in the fridge.

Curing without any side effects or Complications That’s the Beauty of Homeopathic Medicine .

OTHER THERAPIES

In 1994, ultrasound bone growth stimulators were approved by the FDA. Treatments are available to speed certain types of broken bones with the use of electrical stimulation, ultrasound, and magnets. Magnets increase blood flow to the area, thereby speeding healing.
Deep tissue massage and techniques like cranio-sacral massage can increase blood flow and send healing energy. A study at Harvard University showed that hypnosis can be used to reduce bone healing time from eight weeks to six.

Aspirin And Anti-Inflammatory Drugs Can Retard Bone

When you break a bone or tear a muscle and are on pain medication, you may want to try to stop taking the pain medication as soon as possible so you do not delay healing. A study in May 1995 issue of The Journal of Orthopedic Trauma shows damaged cells in a fracture release large amount of chemicals called prostaglandins. These chemicals cause the pain and are blocked by the pain medication. However prostaglandins are also very important in the first stage of tissue repair. So decreasing the use as soon as possible is helpful to the healing process.

Furthermore a study in the October 1995 issue of the Journal of Rheumatology found that continued use of anti-inflammatory drugs over several months can increase the rate of cartilaginous breakdown in joints of people who have osteoarthritis. The drugs mentioned in the studies include Aspirin, Anaprox, Lodine, Meclomin, Motrin, Naprosin, Pensile, Relafen, Toreador, Tolectin, Indocin and Ibuprofen.

Avoid eating foods with preservatives; they contain Phosphorous which can lead to bone loss.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture helps to prevent osteoporosis before it attacks you. Acupuncture will help with bone repair. Specific acupuncture points can stimulate the growth of bone tissues and replace the tissue lost fast enough to prevent the decrease in bone density. Acupuncture treatments can also alleviates pain and muscles spasms, strengthen the muscles to support the body weight. Acupuncture treatment is definitely important for you if you are already suffering from osteoporosis and will aid in bone repair It is perhaps the only treatment that does not have side effects. The effect of acupuncture is much greater when combined with natural herbal treatment, food supplements, diet, relaxation, exercise and whole body cleansing.

Remember, bones are living organs that remodel themselves constantly. Nurture them, feed them properly, heal them safely and they will respond.

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)
©

The Lung-Skin Connection

2010-01-02T00:18:00.001-05:00

raditional Chinese medicine has effectively treated skin conditions like acne, eczema, psoriasis, and garden-variety dry skin for thousands of years. According to TCM, the lung is in charge of the skin. To understand the lung-skin connection, it's helpful to know that Chinese medicine considers the opening and closing of skin pores to be the lung's responsibility. When the lung is not functioning as it should, the pores can trap elements that cause skin conditions. For example, acne that's red means heat is present in the skin. Eczema is always a combination of heat, dampness, and wind. The proportion
of these pathogens determines the different presentations of eczema. Oozy skin means more dampness, red reflects heat, and itchy indicates wind. A TCM practitioner chooses from among different herbal formulas and acupuncture points depending on which elements are predominant. Not only does the practitioner help the body get rid of the pathogens to alleviate symptoms, but she also strengthens the lung to make it less likely for the condition to return.

Amazing Lung Facts

*Each lung contains
about 750 miles of
airways.

*Our lungs draw in
about 2 million liters of
air every day . . .
without even thinking!

*The surface area of the
lungs is equal to that of
a tennis court.

*We lose half a liter of
water per day through
breathing

Source: acupuncturetoday.com

Feel free to pass this along to a loved one and friends.

EAT BETTER. PLAY HARDER. LIVE HEALTHIER. LEARN EASIER. WELLNESS IS A WAY OF LIFE! FEEL SOUL GOOD! http://www.facebook.com/AlternativeHealthSolutionsofNJ

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

©2008-2010

Finally healthcare that is “Soul good for you”

The kindness thank you is your referral. Please pass on the gift of health.

To receive more information join our mailing list!

Fill out my form!

Check out our other projects at:

http://www.facebook.com/SoulsationalMusicWellnessFestival

http://soulsational.webs.com

http://www.facebook.com/TheLittleGreenDirectory

http://greendirectory.webs.com/

Are you on the Jersey shore? Alternative Health Solutions of NJ thinks you should become a member of The Jersey Shore Network and receive exclusive discounts from local businesses and providers! Discounts range from 10%-50% off! You will receive a personalized membership card which you can present to any of the participating businesses and providers. The Jersey Shore Wellness Network Do it TODAY! (ask me for the discount code)

Your Baby'sTransition from Breast Milk to Organic Milk

2009-12-31T10:20:00.001-05:00

When you come to introducing cow's milk into your baby's diet you may find that your baby is willing to switch from breast or formula straight away. However, many parents find it easiest to introduce cow's milk gradually. You could try giving your baby a cup of milk after dinner and still continue with bottled formula or breast milk, gradually reducing the number of bottle feeds and increasing the number of cow's milk feeds until you have switched over completely - some parents find the transition to cow's milk a good time to wean baby off of bottle and onto lidded beakers or cups instead.

To ease your baby onto cow's milk you could try mixing it with their regular breast or formula milk in varying amounts to get them used to the taste. Start with mostly breast or formula milk in the feed and add a tiny bit of cow's milk, then gradually increase the proportion of the cow's milk with each feed until you have completely switched over. If your baby really isn't keen on cow's milk you could try introducing it on their cereal or in smoothies first.

Meeting the minimum requirements daily can be a challenge if your child doesn't care for milk. While chocolate milk does add sugar to your child's diet, it has the same amount of calcium and other important vitamins and minerals as plain milk. Better yet, try a powdered flavoring — just a small amount will provide less sugar than preflavored milks. Some varieties (like Ovaltine) contain added vitamins and minerals, too.

Keep in mind that there are many ways to sneak milk into your child's diet. Serve him puddings, custards, and shakes for snacks. Make his soup with milk rather than water, and add a milk-based sauce or gravy to casseroles.
You can supplement this with other calcium rich foods such as cheese and yogurt as dairy products are also an essential source of other essential nutrients such as vitamins A and D and several important B vitamins. If your baby won't drink milk you should make sure they get at least two portions of calcium rich foods a day as part of a balanced diet.
Some plant foods, like dark green leafy vegetables, broccoli, blackstrap molasses, and Brussels sprouts, contain calcium. So do pinto beans, figs, tofu made with calcium, and calcium-fortified fruit juice. These foods don't provide all of the vitamins found in milk, though. They contain no vitamin D, for example, so if your child doesn't drink milk, you'll want to make sure he takes a vitamin or multivitamin that contains 100 percent of the vitamin D he needs. Also keep in mind that these are not easy substitutions — it takes 4 cups of broccoli to provide the same amount of calcium as 1 cup of milk, for instance.

Some cereals are fortified with vitamin D. Check the labels.

Soy milk can substitute for cow's milk, but check the labels look for soy milk that is fortified with vitamin D, vitamin A, and calcium. The amount of calcium and other nutrients can vary, so look for brands that have the greatest nutritional value.

Yogurt is a great food for those who shun milk or are lactose intolerant. It has the same amount of protein and calcium as milk, but contains much less lactose, so most people who are lactose intolerant can tolerate yogurt. (Note that being lactose intolerant and allergic to milk protein is not the same thing.) Yogurt also contains a bacterium that’s healthy for the intestines.
Re- cap:

• If your child turns up his nose at milk, try mixing it with breast milk or formula (whichever he's used to), and gradually shift the ratio until you’re using all cow's milk.
• If your child isn't a big fan of milk, offer whole milk flavored with vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, or a flavoring perferred. Despite the additional sugar and calories, flavored milk is better than no milk, says the AAP's Dr. Greer, and you can adjust by watching calories elsewhere in your child’s diet.
• Your 12- to 24-month-old needs two cups of milk per day for adequate calcium, vitamin D, fat, and other nutrients, yet too much of it can interfere with iron absorption. Experts vary in opinion on the limit; some set the bar at 16 to 24 ounces per day, others at 24 to 36 ounces.
• If you choose organic milk, look for the USDA green and white organic seal that certifies it has been produced and handled using renewable resources, and without conventional pesticides, certain fertilizers, antibiotics, growth hormones, genetic engineering, or irradiation.
• Yogurt yogurt yogurt!

Smoothies for your baby are nutritious and delicious. They are perfect for fussy children who don’t like milk. Making baby smoothies is great for soothing sore gums from teething and are just plain fun.

BABY Recipes

Baby's First Smoothie (7-9 months)
1/2 banana
1/2 cup formula or breast milk
1/4 cup apple juice

Banana Smoothie
1 frozen banana sliced up
1/2 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup apple juice

Banana and Apricot Smoothie
1 frozen banana sliced up
1 cup apricot nectar
1 cup plain yogurt

Peaches and Cream Smoothie
6 frozen peach slices
1 cup peach yogurt
1/2 cup milk
1 cup apple juice

Good Morning Smoothie
1 peeled seedless orange in sections
1 frozen banana sliced
1/2 cup orange juice
1 cup vanilla yogurt

Fresh Melon Smoothie
1 cup cantaloupe diced
1 cup honey dew melon diced
1 cup vanilla frozen yogurt
1/2 cup orange juice

Banana Berry Smoothie
1 frozen banana sliced
1/2 cup frozen raspberries
1/2 cup frozen blueberries
1/2 cup vanilla yogurt
1/2 cup orange juice

Orange Cream Smoothie
1 peeled, seeded, diced orange
1 cup vanilla ice cream
1 cup orange juice

Strawberry Banana Smoothie
1 frozen banana sliced
6 large strawberries (fresh or frozen)
1 cup vanilla frozen yogurt

Strawberry, Peach, and Mango Smoothie
6 slices frozen peach slices
1 mango peeled and diced
6 strawberries (fresh or frozen)
1 cup peach flavored frozen yogurt

Carrot Smoothie
2 cups carrot juice
1/2 cup apple juice
6 oz non-fat vanilla or plain yogurt
Frozen-1 banana broken or sliced into a few pieces

Autumn Smoothie
1/2 cup plain, vanilla or banana yogurt
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup canned pumpkin
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
dash of ginger
1 frozen banana

Winter Smoothie
1/2 cup plain, vanilla or banana yogurt
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup cranberry sauce
1 apple, peeled, cored and cut into chunks
dash of cinnamon
1 frozen banana

Banana Pumpkin Shake
1-cup milk or whole milk yogurt
2 tablespoons canned pumpkin
(or homemade puree pumpkin or baby jar food pumpkin)
1 banana
dash of cinnamon

Add all ingredients in blender and blend until desired consistency.

Hey Mom’s they make great Ice POPS To!

Baby’s Creamy Broccoli Soup Recipe
In Food processor puree
Handful of Steamed broccoli
Organic whole milk (or soy)
Vegetable broth
Till desired consistency
Heat and serve
YUMMMMOOOO !!!

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

Improving Your Health This Coming Year in 2010

2009-12-31T09:46:00.001-05:00

It is almost the beginning of a new year and, once again, a time to reflect on what changes we can make to improve our lives. If you are intent on improving your health this year, acupuncture may be the very thing you need to "stick" to those resolutions. Here's how:

Resolution: Stay Sharp

Your New Year’s resolution may be to learn something new or take a class at the local college. How ever you choose to exercise your brain, acupuncture can help. Numerous studies suggest that acupuncture can help improve memory, mental clarity, concentration and cognitive function.

One recently published study showed how acupuncture can be used to help patients with vascular dementia. Cerebral functional imaging before and after acupuncture treatments showed a significant increase in the cerebral glucose metabolism of the brain which is associated with improved cognitive function. Other studies have looked at how acupuncture affects the performance of student taking an exam, Alzheimer's disease and memory impairment induced by diabetes and cerebral ischemia. All results, thus far, have been positive.

Resolution: Relieve Pain Naturally

Increasingly, people are looking for more natural approaches to help relieve painful conditions instead of relying on medications. Acupuncture has little to no side effects and can be helpful for all types of pain, regardless of what is causing the pain or where the pain is located. Some studies have shown the pain relief it provides can last for months.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain before and after acupuncture treatment for pain shows dramatic decreases in brain activity -- up to 70%. This decrease in brain activity in certain areas of the brain is thought to be the reason for the reduction of pain caused by the acupuncture treatments.

In addition to reducing pain, acupuncture also hastens the healing process by increasing circulation and attracting white blood cells to an injured area.

Resolution: Eliminate Stress

Stress reduction is always on the top ten list for New Year’s resolutions and for a good reason. Stress is often the cause of illness and the deterioration of health. Numerous studies have demonstrated the substantial benefits of acupuncture in the treatment of stress, anxiety and lowering blood pressure

In addition to acupuncture, Oriental medicine offers a whole gamut of tools and techniques that can be integrated into your life to keep stress in check. These tools include Theraputic Massage, Qi Gong exercises, dietary therapy, meditations and acupressure. Some of these modalities you can administer at home.

Needless to say, if the stress in your life is throwing you off balance, consider coming in for a treatment to regain peace of mind and stay healthy.

Resolution: Reach Target Weight and Stay There

Losing weight is the #1 most common New Year's Resolution. Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine can help you reach your goal weight and maintain it by promoting better digestion, smoothing emotions, reducing appetite, improving metabolism, and eliminating food cravings.

From an Oriental medicine perspective, the acupuncture points, foods and herbs that are chosen to assist with weight loss directly influence the Qi of the Spleen and Liver systems to treat the root imbalances that are causing the weight gain.

From a Western perspective, acupuncture has been shown to have an effect on the function of the nervous system, endocrine system, digestive system, food cravings, and metabolism. All of which can help to energize the body, maximize the absorption of nutrients, regulate elimination, control overeating, suppress the appetite, and reduce anxiety.

The beauty of acupuncture is that each treatment is catered to the needs of the individual patient. Acupuncture points on the body will be chosen for overall well being with the objective of increasing circulation of the blood and Qi (stimulating the metabolism) and calming the nervous system.

Acupuncture is a powerful tool for healthy weight loss, by it self or as a supportive treatment in conjunction with other weight management programs.

Resolution: Quit Smoking

Acupuncture has turned a growing number of cigarette cravers into permanent ex-smokers. In fact, researchers say that acupuncture is a promising treatment for all types of addiction from cigarettes to heroin.

In one study, a team from Yale University successfully used auricular (ear) acupuncture to treat cocaine addiction. Results showed that 54.8% of participants tested free of cocaine during the last week of treatment, compared to 23.5% and 9.1% in the two control groups. Those who completed acupuncture treatment also had longer periods of sustained abstinence compared to participants in the control groups.

The acupuncture treatments for smoking cessation focus on jitters, cravings, irritability, and restlessness; symptoms that people commonly complain about when they quit. It also aids in relaxation and detoxification.

Call now to see how Acupuncture can help you with your New Year’s Resolutions!

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

Michelle Leonard: Acupuncture Treats Colds & Flu

2009-12-31T09:40:00.000-05:00

With the change of season and cooler weather, many people will suffer with body aches, nasal congestion, sore throat, cough, sneezing, fever, and fatigue. Clinical studies have shown that using Chinese medicine to prevent colds and flu can reduce the frequency of illness and severity of symptoms if you do get sick. TCM regulates the body’s innate healing energies and enhances the immune system. Wei qi ("way chee"), similar to the Western concept of the immune system, is the body's defensive energy, the barrier that protects us against viruses and bacteria. When wei qi is deficient, we become vulnerable to disease. We strengthen our wei qi when we get proper sleep, eat a healthy diet, and keep our stress levels down. Acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine can also build up the supply of wei qi. This storehouse is the body’s way to effectively ward off disease. Chinese medicine is a natural, safe, and effective way to help support the body’s ability to defend itself! And if you do "catch a bug," TCM practitioners have acupuncture protocols to help you get back on your feet quickly. TCM teaches that our daily choices are the most important factors in our well-being. Essentials: Getting enough and restful sleep, relaxation and emotional balance, moderate physical activity, and good eating habits. TCM practitioners can help with many health conditions and assist you in establishing good self-care. Foods that are in season are the most beneficial for us. Autumn is the time to slowly roast foods at low temperatures. Avoid eating raw foods, and as always, stay away from fried, heavy foods and limit your consumption of dairy.

Enjoy Fall’s Bounty
whole grains, wild rice
leeks, garlic, sage, thyme,
rosemary, ginger, cinnamon
pears, apples, plums, figs,
pomegranate, persimmons
cabbage, broccoli, beets,
bok choy, brussels sprouts,
yams, carrots, winter squash

The following recipe is an ancient Chinese home remedy for colds. It works best when
you just begin to experience those symptoms that make you think you're getting sick. Chills or slight fever, itchy throat, stuffy nose, or a headache.

Miso Soup

6 cups water
3–4 tablespoons Aka Miso or red soybean paste
3–5 green onion stalks, chopped
In saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add miso and green onions.
Simmer for 5 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Top with more
green onions and serve. You can add other ingredients to make
the soup heartier, such as fresh mushrooms, cooked shrimp, tofu,
or fresh gingerroot.

Feel free to pass this along to a loved one and friends.

Chiropractic Care for Fibromyalgia

2009-12-31T09:37:00.001-05:00

Is the pain of fibromyalgia getting you down? Are you having trouble dealing with persistent backaches, leg cramps, and foot pain? If so, then chiropractic care may be just the thing for you. Chiropractic care is becoming increasingly popular among fibromyalgia sufferers because of the pain and stress relief that it offers. It can often provide relief in short periods of time and help you to get back to enjoying life fast. This article will outline the basics of chiropractic care and help you to decide if it could be an effective treatment for you.

Though often termed an alternative treatment, chiropractic care is now becoming more accepted by the mainstream medical community. Almost 20% of American men and women have used the services of a chiropractor at some point in their lives. 80% of those who use chiropractors report significant pain relief, better functioning, and an increased sense of wellbeing.

Chiropractic care is based on the theory that illness and pain are caused by misalignments in your skeletal structure. It sees the body as a connected system, which relies on your bones, joints, muscles, ligaments, and tendons to keep it functioning efficiently. When your skeletal structure is sound, your body should feel healthy and happy. But if parts of your skeleton are slightly off balance, it could cause serious problems, like chronic pain.

Chiropractors aim to solve pain and related symptoms by correcting the imbalances in your skeletal structure. Through a series of techniques, including stretches, adjustments, and manipulations, your chiropractor will restore your skeletal balance, thereby eliminating any pain symptoms.

Recently, fibromyalgia patients have been seeking chiropractic care increasingly often. Because fibromyalgia causes numerous tender points all over the body, many fibromyalgia patients suffer from back pain, neck pain, and leg cramps. In an attempt to solve these problems, many sufferers have looked to chiropractors. Because simple adjustments to the neck and spine can restore the carriage of the whole body, a lot of fibromyalgia sufferers find that alignments of the spine can significantly reduce pain all over their bodies.

Many fibromyalgia patients suffer from a condition called upper cervical spinal stenosis. This causes the coverings of the upper spine, known as meninges, to become compressed. This can cause severe, debilitating pain all over the body. Chiropractors can adjust the head and neck so the spine is no longer compressed, helping to relieve the widespread pain symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Numerous studies have been conducted analyzing the benefits of chiropractic care in fibromyalgia patients. A 1985 study asked 81 fibromyalgia patients to indicate drug or alternative treatments that best relieved their pain. Chiropractic care treatment scored surprisingly high in this study. Another study examined the effectiveness of spinal manipulation in relieving fibromyalgia symptoms. After just 15 treatments, fibromyalgia patients suffered from less pain and fatigue, and actually enjoyed better sleep quality.

Manipulations can provide numerous benefits including:

* better range of motion in your joints
* increased blood flow (which helps to release toxins and promote muscle healing)
* increased production of endorphins, your body’s natural painkillers
* better pain tolerance

Choosing A Chiropractor can be very difficult. To find a chiropractor that is right for you, especially if you are suffering from fibromyalgia. Call Alternative Health Solutions of NJ.

Source: fibromyalgiasymptoms.org

Feel free to pass this along to a loved one

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

How To Prepare For Your Reiki Session

2009-12-31T09:26:00.000-05:00

There are several things that you can do to prepare for your Reiki session that will increase your comfort level, as well as the effectiveness of the healing session. The basic premise behind this is mindful awareness of the experience that you are about to have. Following these steps will also help your Reiki practitioner feel at ease and comfortable practicing with you.

To begin with, take a long relaxing shower the day of your treatment. The hot, cleansing water will help refresh and relax you, both mentally and physically. Avoid using any heavily scented products during or after your shower. Wearing strong scents could later prove detrimental, as the smell might distract you or your practitioner during the Reiki treatment.

Dress yourself in comfortable, loose fitting clothing. Avoid wearing tight clothing, as they lessen your chances of relaxing fully. Likewise, items such as short skirts should be avoided. Whenever possible, wear shoes that are easy to remove, and dress in layers so that you can be dressed appropriately for the room's temperature. Leave the jewelry at home on the day of your treatment- wedding bands are usually fine, but watches, bracelets and necklaces should be left someplace safe and out of the way. Some practitioners believe that jewelry can interfere with energy flow, while others merely find it to be in the way.

Be sure to arrive a few moments early for your appointment to avoid the stress of feeling late and being rushed. Be sure to communicate with your practitioner. Let them know what your preferences are (music, no music, dimmer lighting, etc) and alert them to any areas you would like them to work on. This communication is also important during a Reiki treatment. For example, if you started off your treatment very cold and were lying under a blanket, and later became very hot, it is far preferable that you simply let your practitioner know, rather than lying there under a blanket, sweating.

Each practitioner of Reiki is different, and may have their own specific guidelines for how they prefer their clients to prepare for a session. The above is merely a general guideline. Always follow the instructions of your practitioner.

Source: Ann Mort Newsletter

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

Acupuncture and Fibromyalgia

2009-12-30T11:22:00.001-05:00

Fibromyalgia is a syndrome of chronic pain. It causes widespread pain and tenderness in the muscles and soft tissue (including tender points) as well as sleep problems, fatigue, and other symptoms.

Acupuncture has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It involves inserting needles in strategic parts of the body to improve the flow of what practitioners call chi, or vital energy said to travel through the body on energy pathways called meridians.

In recent decades, acupuncture has become more popular in the West, where it is also getting research attention for a number of conditions, including pain treatment.

Acupuncture Study-Martin's study included 50 fibromyalgia patients whose symptoms hadn't improved with other treatments.

Half of the patients got six acupuncture sessions over two or three weeks. The other patients got the same schedule of fake acupuncture treatments.

Those who got true acupuncture had notably bigger improvements in fibromyalgia symptoms than those who got fake acupuncture, write the researchers.

Results were based on questionnaires completed before the study, immediately after treatment, and one and seven months later. The largest benefit was seen one month after the treatments ended, the researchers note. They write that acupuncture was well tolerated, with minimal side effects.

In a Mayo Clinic news release, Martin says, "This study shows there is something real about acupuncture and its effects on fibromyalgia.

"We expected the acupuncture to improve the pain. We didn't really expect the largest benefit to be in fatigue or anxiety."

The lack of change in activity or physical function "doesn't surprise me, as we see this pattern in other chronic pain problems," Martin continues.

"You can relieve pain, but it's a lot harder to prompt activity changes. A chronically ill person needs more than symptom relief to resume a normal lifestyle. We're now beginning to work on that problem," he says.

Participants were moderately debilitated by fibromyalgia, according to the news release. "Many have given up work, a lot of recreational activities, and made adjustments in their lives," says Martin. "They have had a significant psychological burden as a result of the loss of these activities; it's become part of their identities."

Martin suggests that patients interested in acupuncture ask their doctors about it and find a qualified practitioner.

Source: fibromyalgiasymptoms.org

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)

Holiday Laughter and Cheer is Healing

2009-12-30T11:04:00.001-05:00

There is no better time to observe happiness and laughter than during the Christmas and New Year holiday season. The next time you are at the store, watch the children as they stroll by the Christmas cookies or the decoration aisle. They open up and smile with warmth and laughter. You should, too.

The holidays simply make you feel good; Christmas music piping over the speakers in stores, malls, and on the sidewalk cafes. The ringing of the charity bells outside storefronts with pots, baskets, and credit card machines for your loving donations. The sounds in your own home during the holidays are, well, just different - they are lighter and more joyous than on an average workday.

Belly laughs are echoes of happiness. It is easy to laugh when you feel good, but when the world appears dim, that is when we need laughter the most in our lives. Our laughter resonates through our hearts, filling the empty spaces with pure, unadulterated joy. We regain our footing in the moment and remember that no sorrow is powerful enough to rob us of our inborn happiness. When we understand that uninhibited laughter is the food of the soul, nourishing us from within, we know instinctively that life is worthwhile. The holidays bring us back to this point; we need to remember to keep this in our everyday lives.

As children, we laugh hundreds of times each day, delighted by the newness of life's experiences. When we reach adulthood, however, we tend to be preoccupied with responsibility and the stresses that life can bring. We forget to let go and let out a good belly laugh. Inviting laughter back into our lives is simply a matter of making the conscious decision to laugh. Though most of us laugh only when exposed to humor or the unexpected, each of us is capable of laughing at a mere passing thought.

A laugh that comes from the belly carries with it the same positive effects whether prompted by a funny joke or simply from a simple thought. When our laughter comes from the core of our being, it permeates every cell in our body, and then, we are not merely belly laughing but body laughing. We have resonated a higher vibration throughout our entire being, and THAT my friends, is healthy.

Laughter was part of human expression long before speech. Just look at a baby! Through laughter, we communicate, and laughter allows us to enjoy positive shared experiences with everyone, strangers and loved ones alike.

When I have a wonderful thought, I laugh out loud, even if I am alone. Laughter carries with it a wealth of benefits. An energetic and enthusiastic bout of body laughter exercises your muscles, the lungs, and your mind in equal measure and at the same time, leaving you feeling more relaxed and content. When we laugh at life's absurdity instead of responding angrily, our focus shifts. Anger, stress, guilt, sadness, fear, and depression no longer dominate us, and we are empowered to make light of what we originally feared. Laughter also opens our hearts, letting love and hope in. Laughter changes our perspective, and enables us to focus our attention on what is positive in our lives.

If you are thinking of Alternative care for yourself or if you’d like more information on what alternative care can do for you today:

Contact http://www.alternativehealthsolutionsnj.com

Email us at alternativehealthsolutionsnj@gmail.com

Call us 732-664-9348

Be a Fan of Alternative Health Solutions of NJ on Facebook

Check out the Alternative Health Solutions of NJ MARKETPLACE

Have a Wonderful day

Michelle Leonard

:0)