February 2010 - Issue #5
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THINKING OUTSIDE THE BOX!!! Looking for Alternative Treatments and Therapies to Treat ASD 1
Inside This Issue... Book Review New Lives by Joanne Wannan
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Contact Us.
Articles
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Using Vibrational Therapy to Help ASD
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Swimming and Playing with Dolphins
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Byonetics Technology
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Therapeutic Horseback Riding
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Immune System Role In A.S.D.
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CranioSacral Therapy
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Infrared Sauna Detox
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autisminsidernewsletter@gmail.com Subject: Calendar (Make sure we receive the information the first week of the month prior to the event) To submit an article, send it to: autisminsidernewsletter@gmail.com Subject: Article
BioMedical Q&A By Debbie Mellen Nurse Practitioner
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autisminsidernewsletter@gmail.com Subject: Classified For general information or advertisement opportunities, please call us at (954)584-3198 or email at autisminsidernewsletter@gmail.com
Events, support groups, activities and more
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Luciana C Leo (786)306-4967 Sarah Sweeney (786)413-8017
Recipe of the Month Carrot Cake (Gluten and Casein Free)
Page 11 SPECIAL THANKS TO: FOR SUPPORTING THE AUTISM COMMUNITY www.soloprinting.com
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Book Review New Lives by Joanne Wannan and dogs, and affirms the belief that it is never to late for miracles. This book will appeal to animal lovers of all ages, to those interested in learning about animal therapy, and to those who advocate for shelter dogs. But mostly, it will appeal to anyone who loves a heartwarming story, where the "underdog" triumphs in the end....Dr. Marty Becker Co-author of Chicken Soup for the Pet Lover's Soul.
NEW LIVES presents stories of hope, inspiration, and second chances. The heroes are an unlikely assortment of dogs who were saved from shelters, animal rescues and the streets. They have gone on to love, serve, and in some cases, save the lives of the compassionate individuals who took a chance on these abandoned canines, and welcomed them into their hearts and lives.
Joanne Wannan is an animal advocate whose own household includes Emma, a rescued dog. She knows first-hand the joy and healing that animals can provide, having long been involved in activities such as visiting hospitals and nursing homes with her "therapy dog." Joanne studied Creative Writing at the University of British Columbia. An experienced author, her writing credits include magazine articles in Dogs in Canada, Homemaker's Magazine, and Canadian Living. Her first script, a mystery thriller entitled Obituary, premiered on Lifetime Television as a MOW (Movie of the Week) in July, 2006. The film, starring Josie Bissett ("Melrose Place") and Alan C. Peterson, has since aired on the W Network and Global TV. 4 Paws For Ability email: karen4paws@aol.com
These dogs work with people who have physical and emotional disabilities, with those in nursing homes and hospitals, and those that are incarcerated. They teach children to read, provide comfort to trauma victims, and become a grieving child’s best friend. In the process, lives—both human and canine—are forever changed. This book is a testament to the powerful bond between humans
Applied Behavior Analysis Services Our ABA programs focus primarily on language and communication Supervised weekly by a doctoral level BCBA-D Diagnostic Services Standardized Psycho-educational Assessments Natural Environment Therapies Behavior Modification/Reduction Independent Living Skills Social Skills Groups
Rehabilitative Services Speech Therapy Occupational Therapy Assessments and Treatment Sensory Integration Strategies Hanen Certified Prompt Trained
Psychological Services Individual Counseling Evaluations and Assessments -Psycho-educational Educational Services -Neurodevelopment Certified ESE Teacher -Learning Disabilities Standardized Assessments -IQ / Gifted Tutoring -ADHD -Depression and Anxiety We utilize an interdisciplinary team approach to maximize the benefits for our clients and their families. Children’s Center For Development & Behavior 440 Sawgrass Corporate Parkway, Suite 106. Sunrise, Fl 33325 (954)745-1112 www.childpsych.org 3
Using Vibrational Therapy to help our children achieve optimal health By Luciana Leo Children with autism present many behavioral and medical issues that have to be treated, these can be the consequence of one or many deficiencies or excesses in the body. For example, in an orchestra, the system may be “deficient” of a single note or a whole symphony of harmonics. This deficiency will make the orchestra sound different. Also, it will not sound properly if there is and “excess” like a member of the orchestra that does not know how to play the assigned instrument. The orchestra has to be in complete harmony to work, and our children’s bodies need to be able to balance on their own in order to achieve optimal health. Vibrational medicine gently invites stuck energy to move or vibrate again... or over-stimulated energy to explore stillness. Over time, the system finds balance between the two by being able to move through the entire range of possibilities fluidly and easily letting the body taking health to a better state. Some of the overall benefits that the Biomeridian Assessment provides include: Ÿ Restoring balance Ÿ Detoxifying by Improving digestion and elimination Ÿ Identifying and addressing allergies and sensitivities Ÿ Strengthening the immune system
In a perfect world, our children bodies would be able to repel and get rid of the daily toxins they come in contact with, their bodies will be able to find their own state of health, and they would get all their nutritional needs from the foods they eat. Unfortunately… This is not a perfect world and because of the constant changes in the environment, our children bodies are bombarded with pollutants, pesticides, chemicals, stress, bacteria, heavy metals, viral patterns, fungal infection, dental toxicities, diseases and more. Children with autism present many symptoms that need to be address. Practitioners mostly prescribe supplements or medications to help with the symptoms based on the assumption that a particular supplement in certain amounts will help a particular symptom to anyone that takes it. I came across many parents that carry around a shopping bag or a book bag full of supplements that their kids are supposed to take or at least try to take. They are frustrated because they invested tons of time and money on the supplements and they can not stick to the program or their kids will not take the supplements. Is there any way to test the children and create a program that is easy for the families to apply and the children to take??? With the help of technology, it certainly is. This technology is the Biomeridian Meridian Stress Assessment System. This machine works in the realm of the vibration medicine principle which states that all matter vibrates to a precise frequency and that by using resonant vibration, balance of matter can be restored. The Biomeridian can be used to conduct a comprehensive evaluation of a person’s energetic health and balance at all levels, physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. This process involves measuring electrical conductivity at responsive points on the skin. The readings will indicate whether the organs and systems are stressed, balanced or weak. Stress indicates inflammation or overwork, an weakness indicates fatigue or degeneration. We all are made out of energy, and each of us have a particular vibration, including our children. Toxin exposure, infections, vaccinations, inherited tendencies, trauma and other detrimental influences can leave a vibrational “footprint” on a person’s energy field. The Biomeridian can identified these “footprints” and suggest supplements, homeopathic remedies, flower essences, color and sounds with frequencies that bring the meridians and electrical conductivity back into balance. The Biomeridian assessment is safe, painless, non-invasive and child friendly. It can be use on people of all ages and does not require any special preparation. All Biomeridian devices have FDA registration and CE approval.
The Biomeridian is based on a technology known as EAV or a Voll machine. Dr Reinhold Voll, a German medical doctor, developed an electronic device for finding acupuncture points electrically. He was successful in finding that these points had a different resistance to a tiny electrical current passed through the body, than did the adjacent tissues. Many other researches confirmed his theory. Voll then began a lifelong search to identify correlations between disease states and changes in the electrical resistance of the various acupuncture points, creating the Voll Scale.
Voll also noted unusual readings on certain points when a patient had a bottle of medicine that he was taken for his condition on his pocket. He was able to rermove the bottle and consistently get different readings when the bottle was in his pocket to when it was not. Voll and his colleagues got to the theory that there was some kind of electro-magnetic field being emitted from the substance on the bottle that somehow will interfere with the electrical circuit of the patient’s body, just like the theory of Vibrational medicine. For more information call (954)584-3198 4
Swimming and playing with Dolphins Island Dolphin Care When Deena and Peter Hoagland found themselves the parents of a paralyzed and visually impaired son, they discovered a way to not only help their son Joe but also help thousands of other families in similar circumstances.
while assisting him/her in the water as needed. Families stay in Key Largo for one to three weeks. IDC is proud of the special family experience it provides. Through their own personal experience Peter and Deena found that it can be difficult to find activities that the entire family can participate in. IDC’s therapy process includes everyone. Siblings participate in every aspect of the classroom sessions and are often invited to assist during the dolphin sessions. On Thursdays siblings play with the dolphins side-by-side with their special brother or sister. The program ends each Friday with a natural dolphin swim for the child and one parent in celebration of the wondrous weeklong experience.
In 1986, Joe Hoagland was born with a rare, life-threatening heart condition; he suffered a massive stroke during the third of five open-heart surgeries. The Hoagland family had recently moved to Key Largo, Florida from Colorado where the high altitude was compromising Joe’s health. The Hoagland’s left their lives and friends behind in an effort to save their son. Starting a new life in Key Largo was lonely and overwhelming. Between doctor and therapy appointments there was little time left for family fun. Finding a place for Joe to play and just “be a kid” was difficult, especially since the stroke had robbed Joe of his independence and thus his favorite activity, swimming. Not knowing where else to turn, Deena, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, called Dolphin’s Plus, an educational dolphin facility in Key Largo. The owner, Lloyd Borguss, told Deena to bring Joe to meet the dolphins. A special friendship was immediately formed between Joe and a wondrous dolphin named Fonzie.
In order for Island Dolphin Care to provide more exciting programs to families, the concept of a therapy/education center was developed. Island Dolphin Care’s facility is a fully accessible therapy and learning facility that includes four classrooms, informational workshops and support groups, state of the art computers and video equipment, Interactive Marine Walls and aquariums, as well as a library & family resource center for parents. This 5,000 sq. ft. center of learning and fun also provides enhanced marine education programs throughout the year. From March through November Island Dolphin Care provides its 5-day programs to children and families from around the world. The unique combination of play and animal assisted therapy provides children and young adults who have special needs encouragement and joy. The dolphin provides unconditional acceptance to each child. These experiences can be so rewarding that they may stimulate the child to attempt new things that they may otherwise hesitate to try. The relationship developed throughout the week with the dolphins and therapist can provide increased self-esteem, increased attention, increased commitment to and trust of others, and increased motivation to continue attempting new tasks. All children are capable of laughing, smiling, and feeling proud…at Island Dolphin Care children are given the independence and confidence to laugh, smile, and feel proud in every aspect of their life.
Over the course of the next year, their friendship grew stronger. Deena utilized the playful interactions between Joe and Fonzie as a motivator to strengthen Joe, both physically and emotionally. Joe wanted to spend as much time as he could with his new dolphin friend. He worked extra hard in his other therapies with the hope of someday swimming with Fonzie. Approximately two years after Joe’s first dolphin encounter he independently slid into the water and swam with his old friend, Fonzie. Today Joe is 23 years old with few remaining signs of the stroke. Deena theorized that if the dolphins could motivate and encourage her son, they might do the same for other children and families. Out of this experience Island Dolphin Care was born as a 501©3 not-for profit organization. Deena Hoagland, LCSW is the Executive Director of IDC and her husband Peter Hoagland is General Manager. Through their experiences with Joe they understand the unique path that parents of children with special needs travel. Parents arriving at IDC programs feel accepted and understood in a stress-free environment.
For more information see Island Dolphin Care’s website at www.islanddolphincare.org or call 305-451-5884. “Every child deserves the opportunity to participate in activities that will enhance their emotional and physical well-being through joyful experiences.”
IDC employs therapists with a background in special education. The skilled therapists at Island Dolphin Care use the motivation and excitement generated in the water and in their classroom sessions to introduce new techniques and resources to each child and family. Each child works and plays one-on-one with one of IDC’s therapists in four class sessions and four water sessions each week. The program is designed using the goals of the parents, along with the therapist’s suggestions. In the classroom sessions, the therapist and child use various forms of art, play and other activities to enhance fine and gross motor skills, encourage socialization, teach basic academic skills, address sensory needs and motivate communication while providing fun activities for the family to do together. In the water sessions, activities range from hands-on interactions with the dolphin from the floating platform to in-water interactions with the dolphin. The therapist structures the water session to address the individual’s goals and objectives
“Without judgment, without fear, they interact and accept you as something wonderful”
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What is Byonetics By Jean Genet
By Sarah Sweeney
Jean Genet, grew up autistic, conquered it and funded the research to define how he did it.
Horseback Riding uses the horse as a therapeutic tool just like an occupational therapy device, except that the horse is a living creature. Therefore, a deep bound is created during therapy, between the horse and the child. Horses are companion animals, they are very sensitive to the riders feelings. They react to the smallest movement, attitude or emotion.
In your child's reality she/he has proper speech, emotional balance, and mental focus. “We only have to unlock the door that allows your child to move back into a proper reality, free of autism.” The brain of a child with autism cannot ground to its physical body so the child cannot complete the circuit back into our reality. This disconnect from the physical body forces the brain to start running out of control and move into what is known as "hyper-drive." In hyper-drive the brain of a child with autism begins to process at genius levels. In fact there is a term for this called "intuitive genius."
There are many documented benefits from interactions with animals. These includes lowered blood pressure and heart rate, increased beta-endorphin levels, decreased stress levels, reduce feelings of anger, hostility, tension and anxiety, improved social functioning and increased feelings of empowerment, trust, patience and self-esteem.
New brain wave technology is proving to be promising in grounding the brain of a child with autism back to its physical body thus completing the circuit back into our reality and bring with it this intuitive genius.
Riding horses addresses several key areas related to autism: Communication and social skills: Riders learn to communicate verbally and physically with their horse, and they can see immediate result of their communication when the horse reacts. They learn to focus on something outside themselves. They also learn to communicate and interact with other people as they work with instructors and volunteers who are leading the horse or walking beside them. They learn to respond to verbal cues from the instructor as they complete specific tasks.
What causes autism? From Jean Genets research in brain mechanisms (how it works) he has determined that the chemical reaction from vaccinations not only damages the developmental switches that connect the child's brain/computer to its mental, emotional, physical, and speech software thus bringing on the symptoms of autism but disables the brain's ability to properly ground to its physical body thus keeping the child trapped in their own reality of autism.
Sensory Skills: The horse's movement provides a great deal of sensory stimulation. As the horse walks, the child receives stimulation to the inner ears, which stimulates the vestibular or balance sense. A change in speeds, from slower to faster, varies this stimulation, helping the child become more alert and focused.
How does Byonetics address autism? Byonetics is a technology that uses Cranial Dynamics™ technology to repair the damaged developmental switches that connect the child's brain/computer and its software.
Motor Skills: Riding a horse provides what is called "proprioceptive" stimulation to muscles and joints. This helps children become aware of where their body parts are and how they are moving. Children with autism often have difficulty knowing how to move their bodies and appear clumsy. Movement activities on the horse provide proprioceptive stimulation that promotes coordination and body awareness.
Developmental Switches when they are turned OFF
Developing Hand-Eye Coordination: during horseback therapy there are several activities to develop hand-eye coordination such as: grasping the handle or steer the reins promotes awareness of hands, playing games while moving, giving hive fives, playing catch the ball, lacing a board while the horse is stationary.
Developmental Switches when they are turned ON with Byonetics
How is Byonetics applied? While the child sleeps, repair of the developmental switches is initiated through the use of seven individual CDs digitally engineered with Byonetics Cranial Dynamics™ technology. This technology provides the exact frequencies the brain uses to repair each of the seven developmental switches that connect the child's brain computer to its software and provide grounding to the physical body. Once grounded the child begins to function in a proper reality. The brain starts connecting to its software that instructs the brain on how to develop speech, emotional contact, and mental focus consequently moving the child out of the reality of autism.
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BioMedical Q&A By Debbie Mellen, Biomedical Practitioner Antibiotics have been the number one answer for fighting infection for many years. However, we now have antibiotic resistant bacteria. Bacteria are not fooled by all antibiotic compounds. Often the drug becomes ineffective or the cells mutate to become resistant to the drug. So it is only reasonable that people are starting to ask for an alternative to antibiotics. Plants and plant extracts have naturally occurring medicinal properties. Some have anti-bacterial properties. Interestingly, many of the plant extracts that fight bacteria are also anti-vital and anti-fungal. They may be potentially more effective against a wide variety of microorganisms than a pharmaceutical drug that may kill bacteria but allow yeast to grow. I will give some examples of some “natural” antibiotics that are known to be safe and effective.
crushed. Once cooked, it loses its antibiotic properties. It can also be applied directly to the skin by rubbing crushed garlic on pulse spots. If you are worried about the garlic odor try taking deodorized garlic capsules. Some people prefer to take a garlic extract. If so, look for the ingredient called allicillin. Being a potent extract, doses of a few drops per day are often sufficient. This extract does not have a really strong taste or odor so it is generally very easy to give to kids. Allicillin can also be dropped into the ear to fight bacteria directly. In this usage, one to two drops a couple of times daily is all that is needed. Goldenseal contains two main chemical constituents called hydrastine and berberine. They are alkaloids, and give this herb its beneficial anti-bacterial properties. I think of berberine as being a potent anti-microbial, while hydrastine helps to sooth inflammation of mucous membranes. This herb is not to be used long term, so it is best saved for times of acute illness such as sinus infection or bacterial ear infection. The general guideline is that two weeks of use is safe. Goldenseal comes in drops and capsule form.
Grapefruit seed extract (GSE). This extract is a powerful all-around anti microbial product and is an excellent disinfectant for washing produce prior to eating. Grapefruit seed extract has a wide variety of uses and comes in a liquid, capsules and tablets. GSE is often given as an anti-fungal, but also has a broader range of activity against viruses and bacteria. They key constituent is called citrucidal, a compound derived from the seed and pulp of grapefruit. I prefer the liquid extract, as it is highly concentrated, so only small amounts are needed and it can be mixed with other liquids. GSE is very useful for bacterial issues in the gut.
Oregano Oil has been shown to kill only the bad bacteria while not harming the good. Be sure that its primary ingredient is carvacrol and not thymol. Thymol is not as effective. Oregano essential oil has antibacterial action against a wide number of bacteria including E. Coli and staph. Oregano essential oil is effective against 25 different bacteria. When appropriate, alternatives to antibiotics should be considered to help prevent infection, as in the use of probiotics. Alternative therapies are searched for by many patients because they are often not being helped by conventional therapy and they believe there are fewer side effects. In addition, many report significant improvements while taking alternative therapies. Unfortunately, the medical profession has been slow to embrace these therapies, and good scientific data are still scarce. However, as we approach the “post antibiotic era” the situation is changing.
Olive leaf extract (Calium elenolate) contains a phytochemical called oleuropein, whose active ingredient; elenoic acid has shown powerful anti-bacterial and anti-viral effects. It works like a broad spectrum antibiotic; it is useful against colds, flu, and upper respiratory or sinus infections. In a series of experiments, oleopein was found inactive bacteria by dissolving the outer lining of microbes. Olive leaf extract is also good for anti-viral effects, which is really important in colds and flu’s. Many such illnesses are viral in nature, even though some develop into secondary bacterial infections. Olive leaf is safe to take for weeks at a time, as is a good choice for immune support and resistant to viruses throughout the flu season.
SAMPLE PROTOCOL FOR THE TREATMENT OF EAR INFECTIONS Ÿ Vitamin C: 500-1000mg every 4 hours, to bowel tolerance (this means that if your child develops loose stools, back off the dose) Ÿ Zinc: 50mg daily throughout the infection. Ÿ Allicillin (Garlic) 2 to 4 drops three times daily taken internatlly, plus 1 to 2 drops into the ear twice daily. Ÿ Goldenseal - 1 to 2 capsules daily. Ÿ Warm compresses against the ear to help ease discomfort and pressure.
Tea tree oil (TTO) is an exceptional natural antibiotic; it is effective against staph skin infections. Tea tree oil, comes from the leaves of the native Australian Malaleuca Alternifolia Tree, and contains antiseptic compounds. Data support that TTO has anti microbial, anti-flammatory and anti-fungal properties. The safety of the oil rests largely on the known use of the oil for almost 80 years. TTO can be toxic if swallowed and has a strong taste and odor, but is safe and effective against various mouth infections when used sparingly by rubbing a drop into the gum tissue or used in toothpaste and spit out. It is useful when it is applied to the skin for problems like acne or ring worm. It also can help when applied to the nails for a fungal infection.
Do any readers have any questions? Email at:
Garlic contains an active compound called allicillin. It is useful against staph and strep infections and has even been shown to kill antibiotic-resistant strains of these bacteria. Garlic is a natural broad-spectrum antibiotic. Ideally a raw clove is chewed or
autisminsidernewsletter@gmail.com Subject Ask Ms. Mellen. 7
What Role Does The Immune System Play In A.S.D.? By Dr. Leslie Fergang Autism is complex and may have many causative factors. We do know, however, that there are certain biological and neurological factors that play an important role in an autistic child’s inability to learn and communicate the way other children do. In my 23 years in practice in Florida, I have worked with a number of autistic children. Many seem to have some swelling in the cranial nerves that affects their vision, hearing, balance, smell and/or taste. They may have an intense aversion to certain sounds, lights, or tastes. This swelling is a result of an immune system that is not working correctly.
present and interact with others. These changes occur when the swelling and chemical imbalance is healed and proper blood flow and nutrition to the brain is restored. In N.A.E.T. the allergies are determined via neuromuscular sensitivity testing. If the patient is unable to perform the muscle testing, a surrogate may be used to assist the process. The treatment consists of a very pleasant acupressure massage. No needles or drugs are ever used. After an N.A.E.T. treatment it is extremely important to avoid contact, for approximately 25 hours, with the allergen that was just cleared from your system in order to ensure complete desensitization. The number of treatments a patient requires depends on the number of allergies that have to be cleared from the person’s system. Often a patient can clear a specific allergen in only one treatment. If all of the treatment protocols have been followed, the effects of the treatment should be permanent. The only known side-effect of an N.A.E.T. treatment is improved health.
Allergies are a genetically inherited trait. They can begin at any point in a person’s life. An allergy is an abnormal response on the part of the body to a substance (the allergen). The only things our immune systems are designed to attack are viruses and bacteria. It is possible to be allergic or sensitive to a food, beverage, something in the environment, medication, vitamins, immunizations, pets, or even something in our own bodies like a hormone.
Several years ago I treated a 3 year old boy with A.S.D. He was non-verbal, had never had a solid bowel movement in his life, and he did not interact with other children at all. After the first clearing, his stool became solid and stayed that way. After the 6th visit, he began making eye contact and smiling at people. After his 8th visit he reached his arms up and gave me a big hug. Both his mom and I cried! And after 15 visits when his mother went to observe him at preschool, he was playing with the other children and mimicking their actions instead of sitting alone on the other side of the room. Not long after that he started speaking.
When our immune systems attack our foods, we end up with poor digestion, poor absorption, toxins, swelling and lots of chemical stress. If we do not digest and absorb our nutrition correctly, then how are our bodies supposed to make our hormones, neurotransmitters, and other natural chemicals that we need for growth, learning and development? Many kids with A.S.D. have food allergies that give rise to gastrointestinal symptoms like constipation, flatulence, pain from certain foods, and even hives/rashes after eating certain foods. Many doctors, me included, believe that environmental and genetic factors can cause a “Leaky Gut”. The leaky gut allows for an uncontrolled passage of antigens into the body leading to an abnormal alteration of metabolic pathways.
Only those cases with a lot of allergies or immune system involvement will show a great change with N.A.E.T. If you are the parent of a child with autism, I am sure you would want to at least look into every possible avenue of help available. For that reason, I do offer a free 15-20 minute consultation during which I can answer questions and explain the treatment in greater detail. I highly recommend Dr. Devi Nambudripad’s book, Say GoodBye To Allergy-Related Autism. The book is available on Amazon.com or NAET.com.
I am a certified N.A.E.T. practitioner as well as a certified N.A.E.T. instructor. Nambudirapad’s Allergy Elimination Technique is a non-invasive way to treat allergies. It is also a drug-free cure for allergy-related autism. The technique works by eliminating the electromagnetic repulsion to the allergen thus neutralizing the immune mediators and interrupting the antigenantibody complex reaction. By treating an allergic child with N.A.E.T. you can not only alleviate their physical symptoms, you can also improve their focus, their mood, their ability to be
www. Drfergang.com
Focusing on all behavior issues and the autism spectrum Ÿ Behavior: Individual, Home Programs Aeleen B. Garrido-Tortorici MS LMHC
Ÿ Occupational: sensory, Gross, Fine, Vestibular
P (954) 434-5784 C (786) 251-9479 www.all4kidz.info
Ÿ Speech: Individual, Pragmatic Groups Ÿ Tutoring 8
Ÿ Auditory Integration: Berard Method Ÿ Groups: Summer, Winter, Spring Ÿ Schools: Observations, Shadowing, I.E.P. Rep.
Autism Spectrum Disorder: How CranioSacral Therapy Can Help By Tad Wanveer, LMT, CST-D; guest author for John Upledger, DO, OMM CranioSacral Therapy (CST) has been shown to help the autistic individual find greater ease, both within themselves and in the world around them, by decreasing structural stress and strain on their central nervous system.
When working with an ASD individual, the initial focus often is on the cranium to locate an area that has the greatest motion response to the craniosacral rhythm. Delicate release and pumping techniques are used to create more motion in that area. The increased motion is used as a dynamic biomechanical tool – one hand is used to continue to increase motion and direct fluid flow, while the other hand is used to encourage motion in non-moving areas. Little by little, small changes create larger changes that enhance the mobility of the brain’s container (the craniosacral system). Increased balanced motion of the membrane surrounding the brain helps flush toxins and inflammation out of the brain tissue. As this occurs, it naturally can elevate biochemical processing, which increases the function of neurons and neurological pathways. Newfound motion of the brain tissue and fluid helps decrease the abnormal and often enormous strain the brain has been under. This allows the brain cells a greater ability to process and react to information of all sorts. As Donna Williams states in her book, Autism: An Inside-Out Approach, “When I was an infant, my senses didn’t work right and my response to light and sound and touch were not just meaningless, but too acute. I could not only, not understand the world, but I also could not stand it.” CST gently can help the ASD person come to newfound levels of tolerance, understanding and response within themselves and with the world around them.
The CST Model of ASD Dr. Upledger’s recent model of autism is based on his hands-on experience with autistic children and their responses to therapy. It’s supported by research at Johns Hopkins University showing “increased levels of proinflammatory cytokines, neuroglial activation and inflammatory changes” in the cerebrospinal fluid of the autistic patients studied. Simply stated, ASD is partially caused by a loss of flexibility and probable inflammation of the membrane layers surrounding the brain. This compromise can create restrictive force on the brain tissue leading to adverse strain on the internal body-regulating components of the hypothalamus, the reticular activating system and the autonomic nervous system; irritation and hypersensitivity of neurons, glial cells and neurological pathways; abnormal pressure change within the brain tissue; adverse affect on the limbic (emotional) system; over-heightened central nervous system immune response; brain tissue congestion and toxicity; and endocrine system compromise. What is observed as typical ASD behavioral impairment in social relationships, social communication and imaginative thought might be the effects of inner chaos created by the abnormal grasp, squeeze and irritation of the membrane on the brain. Combining the extreme tension caused by an abnormally inflexible brain container with inflammation can lead to a brain confined within biomechanical and biochemical turmoil.
CST Is a Sensitive Pathway to Nervous System Correction CranioSacral Therapy gently and fully embraces each individual as unique. Through this type of acceptance, sensitive touch and delicate application of technique, pathways of change can form. CST can help the brain decrease levels of abnormal inflammation, sensation, tension, toxicity and chaos. This can lead to greater ease and efficiency of nervous system processing, which often manifests as a reduction of ASD symptoms.
The CST Approach to ASD The focus of CranioSacral Therapy is to enhance the balanced motion of: Ÿ The membrane layers surrounding the brain; Ÿ The fluid (blood and cerebrospinal fluid) moving into the cranium, out of the cranium, and throughout the brain tissue; and Ÿ The areas of the body that do not show normal response to the craniosacral rhythm, which might be straining the craniosacral system and the brain.
Article published originally on the July issue of 2007 at www.massagetoday.com
Mild Hyperbaric Therapy at
· · · m s fro Price hour p er $ 50 t ion a sess TA 1.3 A
The blue in the first picture (Before mHBOT) indicates low blood flow and limited brain activity. yellow area in the second picture, same patient (After mHBOT) indicate higher blood flow and brain activity
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Autism ADD / ADHD / PDD-NOS Asperger’s Syndrome Speech Delay Cerebral Palsy Brain Injury And more ...
Call us to find out about our monthly package $700 unlimited!!!
For more info call (954)584-3198 or go to www.bodymedonline.com 9
Calendar of Events
IEP WORK GROUP
INDIVIDUAL WITH DISABILITIES EDUCATION ACT
Weekly on Fridays
February 16, 2010
9:30 AM to 12:00 PM
10:00 AM to 12:00 PM
HOMEWORK STRATEGIES February 23, 2010 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM
PARENTING CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL NEEDS February 25, 2010 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM
SPORT DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS Fencing Club Ages 15+ Fri. 6-8pm (305) 222-2128
EXERCISE PROGRAM Tree Tops Park (Davie) For ages 16 and up with developmental disabilities Monday 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. Free. The program is set to music and includes moderate to active head-to-toe movements. Exercises are performed standing, bending, and sitting on mats. Participants must be fairly independent and able to follow simple and basic instructions. Pre registration is required. For registration or further information, call Special Populations at 954-357-8170/8160
Shoot for the Goal Sat. 10-11 am Age 6-11 / 11-12pm Ages 13-21 (305) 226-1622 Youth Swimming Ages 9-20 Sat. 11:30-1:30pm (305) 382-8160 Golf Ages 9-21 Sat.11-12pm (305) 382-8160 Learn to Swim Ages 6-18 Tue & Thu 4-4:30pm (305) 382-8160
BOWLING Strikers Family Sports Center (Sunrise) For adults with developmental disabilities. Tuesday 6:30 to 8:45 p.m. $5.50 includes two games and shoes. Participants will socialize and bowl two games to improve and maintain their bowling skills. Pre registration is required. For more information, call the Special Populations Section at 954-357-8170/8160
Fitness Swimming Adults Wed & Fri 11-12pm (305) 382-8160 Basketball Team Ages 21+ Mon & Wed 5-6pm (305) 665-5319
PINS ‘N’ PALS YOUTH BOWLING Strikers Family Sports Center (Sunrise) For ages 8 to 21 with developmental disabilities Tuesday 4:30 to 6 p.m. $5.50 includes two games and shoes. There are two leagues -- one of ages 8 to 17 and the other for ages 18 to 21. Participants will socialize and bowl two games to improve and maintain their bowling skills. Participants should be fairly independent requiring minimal supervision, able to follow directions, and have independent bathroom skills. Family member(s) is (are) encouraged to attend or be readily available. The 16-week league ends December 15. Pre registration is required. For more information, call the Special Populations Section at 954-357-8170/8160
Join us for a nice evening!!! Network with parents, family members, professionals and other providers involved in the autism community Friday, February 26, 2010 From 7:00 PM to 8:30 PM 7450 Griffin Rd, Suite 250 Davie, Fl 33314
(954) 5843198
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Recipe of the Month Directions Ÿ Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F.
A delicious carrot cake that is free of gluten and casein, but also lower in sugar and fat than most recipes. Can be made vegan with egg-replace instead of eggs. Top with your favorite icing, or a sprinkling of icing sugar. I often use more pineapple, and mix it with cinnamon and raisins, and make a warm glaze before serving. Simply double the recipe for a two-tiered version.
Ÿ Lightly grease or prepare an 8 x 8 square pan, or 9 inch round pan. Ÿ In your mixer, beat the sugar, oil, and eggs together. Add the vanilla. Ÿ In another bowl, mix together flour, xanthan gum, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
Ingredients Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ Ÿ
Ÿ Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients.
3/4 cup granulated sugar 1/4 cup canola oil 1/2 cup applesauce 1 large egg 1 large egg white 3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract 3/4 cup gluten-free flour, mix (your choice, I've used a few different versions) 1/2 cup tapioca flour 1 teaspoon xanthan gum (omit if in flour mix) 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 3/4 raisins 3/4 cup chopped walnuts (toasting optional, but brings out more flavor) 2 1/4 cups grated carrots (about 1/2 a pound) 1/4 cup diced fresh pineapple
Ÿ Stir in raisins and walnuts. Ÿ Fold in the carrots and pineapple. Ÿ Mix well, but don't over mix. Ÿ Bake for 35 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Ÿ Allow the cake to cool completely in the pans set over a wire rack.
By Sarah Sweeney One of the human body main cleansing process is through the sweat. The infrared sauna, raises the body temperature inducing sweating. The heat penetrates below the skin, improving the detoxification process. Far infrared is a section on the electromagnetic spectrum that is not visible to the human eye, but can be felt as heat. Far infrared saunas heats the body directly & faster than warm air sauna can. This stimulated the body’s cellular detoxification process more effectively than a traditional sauna. Far infrared sauna therapy boosts the body’s ability to detoxify, leading to significant and lasting health benefits. Far infrared sauna is said to help assist with: · lowering lactic acid · stimulate endorphins · kill certain bacteria and parasites · detoxify the cells by vibrating ionized bonds · stop swelling, improve lymphatic flow and blood circulation · attracts calcium to cell membrane · decreases the size of water clusters · raise the core body temperature · cause sweating to help the body excrete toxins.
Most infrared saunas are built with lots of adhesives as it makes construction faster and easier. Water-based carpenter’s glues are labeled “non-toxic”, but they are not chemical-free. Most are water-emulsified plastic with chemical additives (biocides, preservatives, thinners, etc.) While detoxifying, the last thing you want to do is sweat out one toxin and inhale fumes of another! Look for a sauna that uses non-corrosive steel screws and thicker paneling to assures that your sauna has both the clean air that is essential for effective detox, as well as the strength needed to last for decades.
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Call us to find out about our monthly packages for Hyperbaric Therapy
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