inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
1
2
INSPIRE HEALTH
March § April 2021
inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
3
contents
issue 52 • 2021
5 RECIPE
28 MIGHTY KIDS
Hot Apricot Jam
12 HEALTHY BODY
Weight Gain That’s Not Fat’s Fault
14 United HomeCare
AVUS Connect: Youth Volunteers Busting Senior Isolation
16 FASHION
Eco Friendly Bamboo Clothing
20 RECIPE
Tenderloin With Aniseed Glaze
26 PETS
INSPIRE HEALTH
30 DISCOVER
Improve Sleep With Accupuncture
32 HEALTHY MIND
Why Mindfulness Matters
34 HEALTHY DESTINATIONS
Glamping
36 GARDENING
Welcome Bees to Your Outdoor Space
38 NATURAL BEAUTY
Don’t Let Your Dog Eat Cat Food
4
Foods to Avoid Feeding Your ADHD Child
Reducing Skin Sensitivity
March § April 2021
AD
inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
5
• editor’s letter
Spring into Wellness
In our March/April issue of Inspire Health, we celebrate the arrival of springtime with a plethora of interesting and informative articles related to our wellbeing. Ryan Carlton shares the seven big reasons to practice weight training, explaining how strength training slows aging, strengthens bones and much more. Writer Nellie Palmer explores the flavorful apricot and shows us how to make delicious hot apricot jam from scratch. She also shares her recipe for tenderloin with aniseed glaze. The Florida Center for Allergy and Asthma Care discusses everything sinus-related, from what they are and the role they play to how to keep them healthy and deal with common issues such as sinusitis. United Homecare shares the story of AVUS Connect, a program founded by Belen Jesuit sophomore Shawn Martinez that links teens with lonely seniors. Dr. Kristie talks about some of the common causes of weight gain, including ingesting too much salt and thereby retaining water, hormonal issues and medicine use. S.J. Merens explains how sleep can be improved through acupuncture which increases the nighttime production of melatonin serotonin, leading to drowsiness. The article entitled Foods to avoid feeding to your ADHD child by Dr. Marty Alexander discusses how certain foods can trigger symptoms of the mental disorder, and Tess Booker shares why it’s important to keep cat food away from dogs, explaining that what’s good for the feline isn’t necessarily good for the canine. Chet McDonahue discusses Glamping and how it’s possible to enjoy the wild without compromising the luxuries of vacationing. Why mindfulness matters by Caitlyn McKey tells us how to incorporate simple mindfulness practices into our daily routine to lower stress and improve health.
M AG A Z I N E PUBLISHED BY COMMUNITY NEWSPAPERS
publisher GRANT MILLER executive editor MICHAEL MILLER director of advertising AMY DONNER marketing director KARINA HINTZ contributing writers OSCAR MUSIBAY CHRISTOPHER PEARSON GARY RUSE account executives GLORIA BURNS MILLER MYERS RICHARD NEIDORF FARA SAX DIANE SCHILLER GEORGIA TAIT production & design DENISE CEBRERO ISABEL VAVREK Cover and United Homecare photos by Denise Cebrero Photography Inspire Health is intended for educational purposes only. Never substitute content contained in this publication for the advice of a health care professional. Jumpstart Publishing, LLC, and the publishers of Inspire Health neither endorse nor promote the products and services described herein. Readers should not use the information in Inspire Health for diagnosis or treatment of any health problem or for prescription of any medication or other treatment. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet, exercise, or supplementation program before taking medications; and if experiencing or suspecting the onset of any health problems.
6796 SW 62ND AVENUE SOUTH MIAMI, FL 33143
6
MICHAEL MILLER GRANT MILLER INSPIRE HEALTH March § April 2021Executive Editor Publisher
PH 305-662-6863 INSPIREHEALTH@CNEWS.NET
recipe
t o H
APRICOT JAM By Nellie Palmer INGREDIENTS • 3 1/2 pounds fresh apricots • 6 tbsp fresh squeezed lemon juice • 2 or 4 red hot chili peppers (depending on desired heat), seeded (can replace chili peppers with any hot red pepper) • 1/4 cup rice vinegar (1/8 cup if using 2 peppers) • 1 package (1 3/4 ounces) powdered fruit pectin • 7 cups Swerve sugar replacement DIRECTIONS P it and chop apricots; place in a Dutch oven. Stir in lemon juice. Place on lowest heat setting and let simmer. P lace peppers in a separate sauce pan with the rice vinegar. Bring to a boil then simmer until the vinegar reduces. Place in a blender and blend until the peppers are at a desired consistency. Add to the apricots. S tir in pectin. Bring to a full rolling boil, stirring constantly. Stir in sugar; return to a full rolling boil. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. R emove from the heat; skim off foam. Ladle hot mixture into hot sterilized half-pint jars. Wipe rims and adjust lids. Process for 5 minutes in a boiling-water canner. For best results, let processed jam stand at room temperature for 2 weeks to set up. inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
7
“My head hurts, my nose is stuffy and it runs like a faucet. I have sinusitis.” But, what is sinusitis? “My head hurts, my nose is stuffy and it runs like a faucet. I have sinusitis.” But what is sinusitis. As with most terms in medicinethe “itis” ending means inflammation. Inflammation is a way for the body to protect itself, and help with the healing process. The inflammatory process will include white blood cells and chemicals that are the work horses for inflammatory response. Among the cause of inflammation are infections or trauma So what is sinusitis (inflammation of the sinuses)? First what are sinuses? Sinuses are openings or pocket of air or cavities within the head- the skull to be more precise. The functions of the sinus is to make the skull lighter, help with the quality of our voice, but the primary function is thought to be help in production of mucus and the warm and moisten air before it travel to the lungs. There are four types of sinuses-maxillary, ethmoid, frontal, sphenoid. There are 2 maxillary on each cheek; there are about eight ethmoids sinuses on each side of the nose between the eyes. The frontal sinuses are up between the eyebrows, the sphenoid sinuses are behind the ethmoids. The sinuses are lined with a mucosal layer. All of them have a drainage site at the bottom of the cavity except the maxillary. Its drainage site is near the top like the overflow hole in a sink. When the drainage sites swell, the air in the sinus gets absorb, which causes a negative pressure and that results in discomfort. Think of when ears get blocked when flying in a plane of diving deep under water. What cause the drainage site to get blocked? It can be do mechanical obstruction such as a deviated septum or nasal polyps or from inflammation of the
8
INSPIRE HEALTH
March § April 2021
nose either from infections or allergies. Infections can be virus, bacterial fungus. The most common infection would be a virus. Usually a virus will last 5 to 7 ays. That is why most infectious sinus complaints are not treated with an antibiotic until symptoms persist for 7 to 10 days. The symptoms may include fever, muscle aches, loss of smell, thick green mucus from the nose, bad breath, headache, pain in the upper teeth, copious amount of mucus draining down the throat. Allergies – allergic rhinitis – cause swelling in the nasal passages. The symptoms can be runny nose, sneezing, stuffy nose, itchy nose. There is usually no significant fever no muscle aches. The individual may have a family history of allergic disorders such as asthma or eczema. The individual may be able to identify a seasonal component or a particular trigger such as dust, animals, etc. Allergic rhinitis is a risk factor for developing sinusitis. Those are the most common causes of sinusitis- though there are others such as immune deficiencies, chronic inflammatory disease.
Diagnosis. The diagnosis can be made by history and physical. But sometimes additional tests are necessary such as imaging (usually CT of sinus), rhinoscopy, and allergy testing (either skin testing or blood). Rarely are cultures necessary. Treatment. Treatment will depend on the finding-it can range from symptomatic treatment for viral infections, to antibiotics for bacterial infection. If allergies are the contributing cause – the treatment may range from topical nasal steroids, antihistamine, to leukotriene modifiers, immunotherapy. If there is a structural cause it may require a surgical intervention. • Board Certified and Eligible specialists in allergy and immunology • 19 offices conveniently located in Miami Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties • South Florida leading allergy & asthma practice since 1974
to control allergies and asthma
Mary “The Bronchus”
Eugene “The Allergen”
Be in control of your allergy and asthma. Don't let them control you! At Florida Center For Allergy & Asthma Care we want to give the power back to you.
OUR SERVICES
DISORDERS WE TREAT
Asthma Management • Drug Allergy Testing
Allergic Rhinitis (Hay Fever) • Anaphylaxis • Asthma
Food Allergy Testing • Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots)
Breathing Difficulties • Chronic Cough
Insect Allergy Testing • Xolair • Skin Allergy Testing
Contact Dermatitis • Drug Allergy • Eczema
Oral Immunotherapy (SLIT) • Patch Allergy Testing for
Food Allergy • Insect Allergy • Oral Allergy Syndrome
Contact Dermatitis • Penicillin Testing • Ear Lavage
Pet Allergy • Pollen, Mold & Dust Mite Allergy
Pulmonary Function Test (PFT)
Sinusitis • Urticaria (Hives)
In office and telemedicine visits for new and established patients.
MIAMI DADE OFFICES AVENTURA 21150 Biscayne Blvd., Suite 408 PH.305-932-3252 F.305-932-2798
CORAL GABLES 475 Biltmore Way, Suite 311 PH. 305-445-9422 F. 305-444-4651
HIALEAH/MIAMI LAKES 7150 W 20th Ave., Suite 106 PH.305-362-7762 F. 305-362-0368
HOMESTEAD 100 NE 15th St., Suite 104 PH. 305-245-1100 F. 305-245-0852
KENDALL 9035 Sunset Drive, Suite 202 PH.305-279-3366 F.305-271-3355
KENDALL REGIONAL 11880 SW 40th St., Suite 304-C PH. 305-223-8919 F.305-223-8650
MIAMI BEACH 400 Arthur Godfrey Rd., Suite 504 PH. 305-538-8339 F. 305-538-4907
NORTH MIAMI BEACH 16401 NW Second Ave., Suite 204 PH.305-945-4131 F. 305-945-0052
PALMETTO BAY 14411 S. Dixie Highway, Suite 223 PH.305-255-4868 F. 305-255-4922
WEST KENDALL 9000 SW 137th Ave., Suite 213 PH. 305-388-0078 F.305-388-2029
MAKE AN APPOINTMENT TODAY
1.877.4.ALLERGY (1-877-4-255-3749)
www.florida-allergy.com inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
9
exercise
THE SEVEN BIG REASONS TO PRACTICE
t h g i e W g n i n i a Tr By Ryan Carlton
BY REPUTATION, IT MIGHT BE ASSUMED THAT WEIGHT TRAINING IS SOLELY THE DOMAIN OF SUPER-BUFF FITNESS FANATICS. IN REALITY, STRENGTH TRAINING IS ONE OF THE BEST FORMS OF EXERCISE THERE IS–FOR EVERYONE. ANYONE WHO CARES ABOUT THEIR HEALTH AND WELLBEING SHOULD DO SOME WORK WITH WEIGHTS. READ ON TO FIND THE SEVEN POWERFUL, IMPORTANT REASONS TO TAKE UP WEIGHT TRAINING.
10
INSPIRE HEALTH
March § April 2021
1.
IT SLOWS AGING. While the negative effects of aging can never be stopped, they can be mitigated. Muscle mass decreases as the years pass. The best way to counteract this trend is to practice strength training. Besides fighting frailty and weakness, working with weights also helps maintain balance and coordination. STRONGER BONES. You can't directly strengthen your bones. Instead, bones becomes stronger and larger as muscles grow (albeit at a much slower pace). Lifting weights will increase bone density, making the skeletal system stronger and more resistant to fractures. Having strong bones becomes ever more important as the years pass and age-related conditions like osteoporosis become a greater risk.
2.
3.
6.
4.
7.
IT BURNS CALORIES. Working out with weights doesn't get the heart pumping nearly as much as does aerobic exercise. However, it still does burn a decent amount of calories–and every bit helps. In addition, greater muscle mass results in a faster resting metabolism. Muscle cells burn calories at a relatively high rate even when the body is not undergoing exertion. YOU'LL LOOK BETTER. We all care about how we look. Pretending otherwise is pointless. Gaining muscle is one of the best ways to become more attractive. While this is particularly true for men, women also look better with a stronger, more toned body. Being attractive extends beyond simply how you look in the mirror, as well. Looking good increases confidence and self-respect. PROTECTION FROM INJURY AND PAIN. A stronger body is more capable of resisting injury. Many common injuries and conditions occur at least partially because of weak, inadequate muscles. For example, chronic back pain is often the result of muscles that are incapable of properly supporting the lower back.
5.
YOU'LL BE HAPPIER. Weight training, like any exercise, is an incredible way to enhance psychological wellbeing. That's because working out triggers the release of endorphins, the brain chemicals associated with positive emotions. Exercise is thus the best natural stress reliever there is. Overcoming challenges also enhances psychological resilience. GREATER STRENGTH. Obviously, the most direct benefit of weight training is added strength. Aside from the self-confidence strength can bestow, being stronger has practical, real-world advantages. Many common, everyday body movements depend upon bodily strength. Think of carrying groceries, household chores, carrying children, or yard work. Everyone should be interested in healthy living–and everyone interested in healthy living should be interested in weight training. Doing weight work is simply one of the best ways to enhance the body's abilities, maintain health and aid wellbeing.
Strength training is one of the best forms of exercise there is– for everyone.
inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
11
healthy body
WEIGHT GAIN THAT'S NOT
FAT'S FAULT
By Dr. Kristie
Y
ou look at the scale and see you're up three pounds and immediately go into panic mode. You've been eating right and staying physically active. Why is the scale inching higher? Before getting flustered, realize that weight fluctuates on a daily basis. It can go up or down by up to 5 pounds and those weight changes don't necessarily mean you've gained body fat. Let's look at some common reasons you may be up a few pounds that have nothing to do with acquiring body fat.
You Ate Too Much Salt Did you eat a restaurant meal the day before? Restaurant fare is notoriously high in sodium and the same is true of ultra-processed packaged foods. After eating a meal that contains too much sodium, your body retains enough fluid to boost your body weight by a few pounds and it can take several days for the excess water to subside.
12
INSPIRE HEALTH
March § April 2021
What's the solution? Drink more water and reduce your sodium intake. Drinking more water may seem counterintuitive, but consuming water helps your body flush out excess sodium. As that happens, your weight will drop. Keep tabs on how much sodium you're consuming by limiting restaurant meals and reading the label of processed foods to see how much sodium they contain. Even better, stick to whole, unprocessed foods that are naturally low in sodium.
You Ate Too Much the Day Before If you wake up in the morning and are up a few pounds, question what you ate the day before. Consuming a heavy meal, like a holiday dinner, can increase your body weight by 2 to 5 pounds. Part of the increase in weight comes from the weight of what you ate, but it's also water retention, due to sodium, and the impact of con-
suming too many carbohydrates. Your muscles and liver store carbohydrates as glycogen. Each gram of glycogen your body stores in your liver or muscles is attached to 3 or 4 grams of water. That's why your bodyweight rises when you fill up your glycogen stores after a high-carbohydrate meal. It may take a few days to return to your normal body weight after a trip to a buffet or a large holiday meal.
It's Your Hormones If you're still having periods, you may have noticed you gain weight at certain times during your cycle. Also, taking supplemental hormones, such as hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills, can sometimes cause weight gain. Most of this weight gain is due to fluid retention rather than a rise in body fat. If you're not taking hormones, you will likely lose the extra weight as you progress through your cycle.
When the number rises on the scale, it doesn't always mean you've gained body fat. Be prepared for daily weight fluctuations of up to 5 pounds from day to day and know that they're normal. Don't become too obsessed with the bathroom scale. Focus on being your healthiest instead!
Stress can also cause weight gain due to water retention by increasing the stress hormone cortisol. You might notice water weight gain and, if it's sustained, fat gains around the waist and tummy. Stress reduction is the best remedy for this type of weight gain.
You Started a New Medication A long list of medications can cause weight gain. Some of this weight increase is due to fluid retention, while other medications cause an increase in appetite or slow your resting metabolic rate, leading to a rise in body fat over time. Some medications that cause weight gain include anti-depressants, antihistamines, antipsychotic medications, corticosteroids and medications used to treat seizures. This isn't an exhaustive list, so always ask your physician if a new medication they prescribe causes weight gain. If your weight suddenly increases, check your medications. A number
of medications can cause temporary weight gain including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (usually due to water retention), antihistamines, prednisone, anti-depressants and other medications used to treat mood disorders, to name a few. Your weight should return to normal once you stop the medication, so you won't be surprised with the number the scale spits back at you.
You're Constipated If you're constipated, the unpassed food will add to your body weight. If you've ever weighed yourself before and after a bowel movement, you may have noticed that your weight drops by a few pounds. If constipation is a problem, add more fiber to your diet, drink more water and increase your activity to keep things moving. Most people don't consume enough fiber to maintain regular bowel movements.
The Tome Law Firm, P.A Jay R. Tome Esquire Health Care Law Practice AHCA Surveys Health Plan Audits Preparation & Submission Overpayment Audits Preparation & Submission Health Care License Renewals & Suspensions Medicare Payment Solutions Medicaid Payment Solutions Provider Agreement Review & Negotiations Credentialing & Accreditation Health Care Consulting Broward Office:
Miami Office:
6840 Griffin Road Davie, Florida 33314 Tel: (305) 809-8099
15500 New Barn Road Suite 104 Miami Lakes, Florida 33014 Tel: (305) 809-8099
www.tomelawfirm.com inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
13
AVUS Connect
Youth Volunteers Busting Senior Isolation Avus Connect is the brainchild of Belen Jesuit Sophomore Shawn Martinez (Class of 2023) inspired by a call to action to address isolation and depression among older adults. “Avus” means grandfather in Latin. On Christmas Eve 2018, Shawn’s maternal grandmother passed unexpectedly as the family prepared for the holiday festivities. Three months later, his paternal grandmother passed away leaving the family void of their matriarchs. Shawn states “grandmothers have the unique ability of bringing families together, as they are the main fabric that keeps families intact.” Shawn recalls how his grandfathers were negatively impacted by the absence of their life long partners. Their grieving process isolated them from friends and family and caused them to
Shawn Martinez, Belen Jesuit 2023
suffer from depression. The problem became worse with the start of the COVID pandemic and the forced social isolation which Shawn recognizes affected older adults and grandparents. Watching both his grandfathers slipping away in isolation and depression was the “call to action” that Shawn recognizes to be the bedrock of Jesuit education. “I started to contact my grandfathers by phone and having conversations with them, helping them embrace positive memories from their native Peru and Cuba. I then added the visual impact by communicating through my tablet and “face-time” and noted how upbeat they became when they had visual contact with me. I extended this with some of my grandfather’s lifelong friends and noted how “connecting” was the key to reduce isolation.” Shawn
r-l: Blanca Ceballos with Dolores Pollack, training HS students during conversation with veteran William “Bill” Muir.
Band of Brothers (l-r): Lucas Bogardus; Diego Victoria; Diego Liu; Hector Meruelo; Gabriel Rodriguez; Francisco Baella, and Shawn Martinez. shared this idea with his parents and his high school counselor, Rafael Ledesma, who encouraged him to take this experience to the next level. This is how he came across the Volunteer Heroes of United HomeCare, led by the team of Alina Palenzuela, Dolores Pollack and Blanca Ceballos. Shawn highly appreciates the support he has received from the Belen Jesuit family and his counselor Mr. Ledesma and School Volunteer Coordinator, Teresita Gonzalez, but most importantly, taking the project from “concept” to reality was greatly achieved with the sponsorship and mentorship provided by the experts in Elder Care at United HomeCare and the multi-disciplinary team of clinicians and home health aides that care for older adults.
Pictured are United HomeCare volunteers Shawn Martinez, Belen Jesuit student and Avus is his brainchild and Daniella Loo, Student Cares volunteer.
United HomeCare® (UHC) is a 501 (c)(3) home health provider of comprehensive services to older adults including visiting nurses and therapists, home health aides to assist with activities of daily living, and experienced case managers, social workers and nutritionists offering best-in-class services. Founded in 1973, United Home Care is an Impact Partner of the United Way of Miami, a Lead Agency for the Alliance for Aging, and a contracted provider for home health services by all managed care plans participating in the Florida Medicaid Long-Term Care Program. UHC is your choice selection when transitioning from a hospital or rehab to your home. For more information about care services and volunteer opportunities, please contact the experts at United Home Care at 305-716-0710 or visit www.unitedhomecare.com.
Busting senior isolation with meaningful conversations. inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag INSPIRE HEALTH
15
fashion wellness
ECO-FRIENDLY
o o b m Ba g n i h t Clo
T
By Peter Swift
he desire for sustainable, eco-friendly living is growing across all areas of society, but the fashion industry in particular has recently attracted a lot of criticism for lagging behind. From the waste of disposable fashion to the dubious ethics of thirdworld production facilities, clothing has a lot of progress to make with its environmental credentials. One of the ways the industry is starting to change for the better is through offering fabrics made from bamboo, which produces one of the most sustainable forms of natural fiber available. But for all its eco-friendliness, the idea of wearing bamboo clothing can seem strange to some people, sounding like a trade-off between comfort and environmental integrity. Nothing could be further from the truth. Here's why bamboo fiber makes an excellent clothing material, even if you ignore its unbeatable sustainability strengths.
16
INSPIRE HEALTH
March § April 2021
Amazingly Soft Texture If the thought of bamboo conjures up images of tough, scratchy grasses, then you needn't worry about bamboo clothing being uncomfortable. Once the plants are processed into fiber, the fiber's rounded shape and smooth underlying structure makes material that's incredibly soft and comfortable to wear. Fresh and Airy Feeling Bamboo fiber is filled with microscopic holes that provide excellent ventilation, keeping you feeling fresh for longer. What's more, these holes give bamboo a natural wicking effect that draws moisture away from your body and into the air, for longer-lasting comfort in warm conditions. Great Insulation Those microscopic holes provide another benefit too. In cooler weather, they pro-
vide high levels of insulation against the chilly air, making bamboo a great lightweight inner or outer layer. Hypoallergenic Properties Unlike some other clothing fibers like cotton or polyester, bamboo is hypoallergenic. This means it doesn't trigger any allergic reactions in the vast majority of people, even those with sensitive skin. If your clothes often leave you feeling itchy or sore, then bamboo may provide a solution. High UV Protection Bamboo clothing can filter out up to 97.5% of damaging ultraviolet (UV) rays from sunlight. Combine this property with its excellent ventilation and lightweight comfort, and bamboo is the perfect
n Bamboo clothing ca % of filter out up to 97.5 et (UV) damaging ultraviol . rays from sunlight
material for wearing on hot, sunny days. Easy to Clean and Stays Crease-Free Bamboo clothing is simple to wash and stands up well to heavy wearing, but it's also highly crease-resistant to remove the need for ironing. Bamboo clothing is almost impossible to wrinkle or pull out of shape, making it a durable and convenient choice for daily wear. The environmental credentials of bamboo alone make it an attractive alternative to cotton or synthetics. But when you add in all the other benefits, it's clear that clothing made from bamboo fiber is heading for a bright and sustainable future.
O-Gee Paint Wallpaper & Equipment
6995 Bird Road 305-666-3300 2855 SW 69th CT 305-266-0662 go.o-geepaint.com inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
17
eat fresh
APRICOTS SOON THE COLORS OF WINTER WILL DRIFT AWAY LIKE LEAVES IN THE WIND AND MAKE WAY FOR THE VIBRANCY OF SPRING. FOR FRUIT LOVERS THIS SIGNALS THE BEGINNING TO A BOUNTIFUL TIME OF THE YEAR WHERE FRESH PRODUCE BEGINS TO SWING BACK INTO SEASON. ONE OF THE FIRST PLANTS TO BLOOM IS THE APRICOT TREE, AND LUCKY FOR US IT YIELDS A FRUIT BRIMMING WITH HEALTH BENEFITS AND FLAVOR.
By: Christian Dischler
18
INSPIRE HEALTH
March § April 2021
A
pricots carry an abundance of amino acids and minerals in their sweet flesh and tangy skin. While magnesium and selenium headline this list, an underrated benefit the fruit provides is assisting the body's vitamin B12 production. Compounds in the fuzzy skin help to clear out unwanted yeasts and molds in our systems, allowing B12 to perform at peak functionality. In addition, the fruit's flesh impedes our body's ammonia supply, an intrusive gas causing widespread issues ranging from our mouths to our gut. Simply ingesting one fresh apricot a day can give your body comprehensive rejuvenation, stabilize your energy levels and clear brain fog. But it's also a strong component in fighting specific ailments you might be experiencing.
an underrated benefit the fruit provides is assisting the body's vitamin B12 production Cancer, gallstones, celiac disease, acne, asthma, chronic fatigue, diabetes, and Raynaud's syndrome are only a few of the conditions that apricots are known to help. Taking into account the versatility of this fruit it's hard to imagine why you wouldn't want to begin including them into your dietary plans. On top of their benefits for conditional problems, they also target certain symptoms you may be suffering: nausea, tiredness, unquenchable thirst, gum pain, shortness of breath, bloating, and countless others. So how can you maximize these benefits and ensure you're getting the most out of this adorable fruit? Begin by shopping for fresh apricots preferably from somewhere nearby. Fruits and vegetables maintain optimal nutrition the less time they spend traveling to get to you. The majority of apricots in the US are grown in California, while some may be imported depending on the season. Dried apricots
retain a surprising amount of their nutrition when compared to other dehydrated fruits, but if going this route be sure to purchase ones that are sulphur-free. The ideal amount to consume each day is 4 apricots, but one is better than none. For fresh apricots it's imperative to allow the fruit to ripen before enjoying them. This can be a dance with temptation but it's well worth the wait. Not only will the flavor improve but their health benefits will also be heightened. If you've mastered the patience of waiting for fruit to ripen then you'll enjoy this next tip. Try to consume apricots after 3pm, when their nutritional value peaks, encouraging our bodies to receive their bioactive compounds more readily. Including apricots in your diet is easy considering how delicious and versatile they are. Try slicing some to put on a savory grilled cheese with rosemary or making some hot pepper apricot jam. The possibilities are as endless as their benefits.
inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
19
recipe
TENDERLOIN WITH ANISEED GLAZE By Nellie Palmer INGREDIENTS • 2 lb pork or beef tenderloin • 2 tbsp pink sea salt • 2 tbsp olive oil • 2 tbsp honey • 4 tbsp strawberry balsamic vinegar • 1 cup chicken broth homemade or low sodium • 1 tsp thyme chopped fresh • 2 tbsp butter unsalted • 2 tbsp truffle oil • 1/4 tsp aniseed ground • 1/4 cup figs finely chopped • 1 /4 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
DIRECTIONS Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F. I f you are making a beef tenderloin, use cooking twine to tie around the filet in three or four places to hold the tenderloin together. Lightly season the filet with salt. In a cast iron skillet, heat olive oil and brown the filet on each side for about three minutes or until browned on each side. This should take about 12-15 minutes. R emove the cast iron skillet from the stove top and bake in the oven for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until cooked to your desired taste. Searing and oven time combined should be about 45 minutes.
A llow the meat to rest for 15 minutes before serving. While the filet is resting, place the honey, balsamic vinegar, chicken broth, orange juice, thyme, butter, truffle oil, aniseed and figs in a blender and blend until smooth. Then heat in a saucepan. Once it comes to a boil, reduce and simmer for 10 minutes. S lice the filet, arrange the slices on a plate and drizzle the glaze over them.You can also garnish this dish with fresh salad tossed in a light rice vinegar dressing. Internal Temperature Chart: Rare - 115° - 120° F Medium Rare - 120° - 125° F Medium - 130° - 135° F Pork Tenderloin should be cooked to 145°F
20
INSPIRE HEALTH
March § April 2021
inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
21
feature
STOP LIVING A
HALF A**ED
Life! By Patricia Danflous
22
INSPIRE HEALTH
March § April 2021
Y
ou’ve heard about being a bad-ass. Do you really want to be one? That’s a question requiring careful consideration depending on who you are, where you are and what you want from life. Stop the contemplating for a moment and ask yourself this question, “do want to approach life half-ass?" Much easier question to answer, right? Start today to live a “whole-ass” life–and we’re not talking “fat” or “big"– and you are on the way to discovering greater peace, pleasure, achievement, energy and an extraordinary existence. And you can take a leading role in making the world a better place. Where do you start? How do you do it? The magic extraordinary button is already in place within you. Follow the guidance and example of a modern day monk to push that button and go forward. Yes, a monk. Specifically, Maharani, an Ishaya monk who defies the traditional definition of a hooded, brown-robed individual praying and laboring all day in a secluded monastery. A beautiful young woman with a dazzling smile and soothing, but commanding voice, Maharani has figured out how to live and share her success as an author, motivational speaker and spiritual leader. She and her fiancé are living in a mountain-top area of Spain where she finds time for meditation, continued self-growth, writing and guiding others to live more fully and more purposeful lives. More often than not, Maharani uses a touch of humor to ignite an individual’s magic button. Her first book, "Whole-Ass: Stop living a half-assed life and enjoy an extraordinary existence so you can play your part in making the world a better place," identifies what stops people half-way on the way to their goals and happiness, while making you smile in a whole-ass style. “My dream is to have as many people as possible get up off their couch, and inject life force into this
world,” she explains, noting that Ishaya is a tradition incorporating contemplative meditation and prayer. “For me, that dream means to live dedicated to waking up from the illusion of the mind and stepping into Oneness,” she said. “That is my first and foremost commitment and direction, and everything else in my life stems from it. However, that devotion and commitment is lived in an everyday life. Not in a cave or monastery away from the world! Through my own experience and exploration, I am shown more and more ways to open up to divine will and to let divinity shine through.”
Her experience is hard-earned. Unsuccessfully attempting to end her life as a young teen, she knew that dying was not what she wanted. A devastating break-up twenty years ago, however, brought back the rock bottom feelings. “I had to figure out how to live,” she said. “I was done with life the way I knew it. There had to be more to living than just struggling to survive, day in and day out. Millions of years to create this stunning planet cannot be just so we pay taxes and then one day die.” Inspired by the love and guidance of her parents, infused with a high-achieving, curious and competitive
inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
23
feature personality, she began a self-discovery journey, landing in Spain for six-months of meditation, becoming comfortable with herself and reaffirming a mindset that began early on. “I was really curious as a child and a natural high achiever,” she recalled. “Everything I set my focus on would come to fruition. It wasn't an education thing, I was naturally born that way. I always felt like I could ‘download’ any information, which was really annoying to my schoolteachers! I usually felt out of place, like I was a little adult trapped in a kid’s body with a huge heart and love for humans. But that out of placeness, feeling different, the world around me not making lots of sense to me, was a strong drive since really young to find who I really was and what was I doing on this Earth. It felt imperative for me to discover it. I didn't stop until I found my calling.” As a contemporary monk, Maharani is a spiritual leader who “points the finger back to your own heart, to the divinity within, and can help you to get out of the way, so you live the life that is required for you to best serve humanity,” she said. “A spiritual leader will help you to transcend duality, the mind, and find freedom within. Regardless of the challenges life brings or the direction your life takes, a spiritual leader will enable you to experience peace beyond the external world. A spiritual leader will work with the permanent aspect of yourself, the Silence within.” She is like you. “My life is ‘normal’ and there aren't activities or requirements to be a monk,” she explained. “I face the same options in life as everyone else. It is all about the internal experience, that is the part I´d say is ‘different’. Meditation is definitely an essential, though, so I meditate around one and a half to two hours per day. That sounds like a lot but it isn't when you see the effects in your life.” The energetic monk acknowledges her parents for inspiration and guidance. “I am blessed with two wonderful parents,” she said. “From my mother
24
INSPIRE HEALTH
March § April 2021
I learned to give everything for the people I love, to cherish people more than possessions but that creating a beautiful environment is love manifest! She taught me to follow my own drum and not settle for what everyone else was doing or desired, especially as a female. She also tried to teach me to not go out to the store in my pajamas, but that one never stuck.” “From my father I learn that nothing is impossible,” she said. “He is a visionary and genius. He taught me that anything worth doing always serves others, and not yourself. To be committed to your own path and follow it no matter what. He is also really funny and really loving and a true family man. He taught me that you can have it all. “They both always guided me and helped me to find my own truth and my own path as strange as it might have looked to others. It must not have been easy for them to have such a strange child that wanted to spread wings from a really young age.” A highlight of Maharani’s current life is service to others as she works to enhance the quality of life for all. “Imagine, a world where all humans were in service to other,” she asked. “A world based on giving and not on taking. A world of connection, not of separation. All that, service can do. Only that switch in humans would create a different world.” “Service is giving,” she explains. “Giving to others. Serving others. Making it about the rest and not about you. I´d like to think everywhere in the world, an old lady carrying her groceries is always taken care of,” she said smiling. Maharani advised that being at peace, resting in stillness, living in joy is service. Have you ever been around someone that has good vibes and being in their presence immediately makes you feel better? “That is service,” she explained. “You allow people to recognize in their soul there is more, and they might remember to search for more. Ev-
eryone has something to give. Don´t underestimate the power of giving your attention.” Ready to push your magic button? “Sometimes we want to live fully, we want to live whole-ass and we find ourselves over and over, back in our old habits, de-motivated and frustrated,” Maharani emphasized. “We go to bed and wonder, ‘ is this the life I was meant to live? Is this all there is?’ The answer is ‘no.’ There is much, much, more and it all exists within you, and it´s all accessible now. Be wild, be open, be willing change, dare to love, be simple, be wise, follow your dreams with passion, infuse your ever day with purpose through the limitations of your mind and see for yourself that the being that exists beneath is the most wonderful of beings: you. You have the power to change this world.” For more information about Maharani and her approach to an extraordinary existence visit her website at maharanimonk.com, connect with her on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. Her book Whole-Ass is available at all major booksellers and online via Amazon.
Dr. Kessler - Inspire.qxp_Layout 1 9/25/19 12:59 PM Page 1
Smile! with confidence again
NEW PATIENTS WELCOME • Graduate Northwestern University Dental School University of Illinois Dental School • 35+ years experience
• • • • •
Town Center One 8950 SW 74 Court, Suite # 1201, Miami, FL 33156 305-670-3800 wesavesmiles.com
Ultra modern offices State of the art equipment Dental implants Periodontal treatment Cosmetic gum
• MJ (Jaw pain) Therapy • Nitrous Oxide • English, Spanish, French, German spoken
Lawrence J. Kessler, DDS Periodontics and Dental Implants
inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
25
pets
DON'T LET YOUR DOG EAT CAT FOOD By Tess Booker
M
ost pet owners know that it's fairly dangerous to allow your cats or dogs to eat human food. Many things you eat--such as chocolate--are extremely dangerous to your pets and may result in severe damage to their health. However, something less discussed is how dangerous it is to allow your dog to eat cat food. Since they both belong to very different species, their bodies work in different ways. What is healthy for a cat might not be healthy for a dog, and vice versa. If you have both a cat and a dog, you might have noticed that your cat is a very picky eater, while your dog will most likely try to eat everything he finds. Some dogs will even keep this food in their stomachs, even when it's bad for them. While they might not vomit or suffer from diarrhea immediately, in the long term some food might cause lasting damage. One of these foods that will cause suffering for your dog is cat food. Cats are necessarily carnivorous, so their food will contain lots of fat and protein, which might look appetizing for your
26
INSPIRE HEALTH
March § April 2021
dog at a first glance. If your dog has a weak stomach, he may suffer from a bad stomachache almost immediately. If he's stronger, you will find out later in his life that his kidneys and liver won't work right because of the high amount of protein found in cat food. The high amount of fat found in this food will cause obesity and pancreatitis. According to the American Kennel Club, dogs can survive from cat food if there's no other option for them. This happens with strays who will eat whatever they can find to survive. Even if your dog ends up eating cat food one time, you shouldn't have too much to worry about if you take him to a vet you trust. However, the nutrient imbalance won't be healthy for your puppy if you keep it up for too long. Even if you do take him to a vet, sometimes it might end up being too late if you didn't take good care of your dog before. Symptoms of an unhealthy puppy who ate too much
cat food might include abdominal pain, lethargy, appetite loss, weakness, constant vomiting and fever. Some dogs will be stubborn and try to do anything to convince you they prefer cat food. But if you love him, you will know the right thing to do is tell him no and stick with dog food. If your dog shares a home with a cat, make sure he's eating from the right bowl. It might help to keep your cat's bowl somewhere high that your dog can't reach--since cats enjoy being in high places. And don't forget: dog food isn't meant for cats either. Dogs can have a vegetarian supplementary diet, which will reflect on how their food is produced. Cats on the other hand, are strictly carnivorous and need the protein found in meats to survive. According to the animal welfare organization, American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, it is not safe or healthy for a cat to be offered dog food constantly.
COVID also impacts our
Furry Friends
By Yolanda Berkowitz. President, Friends of Miami Animals The world has changed, we’ve changed and animals need us more than ever. Our lives have been deeply affected, with social habits upended, public health compromised, and world economies brought to a screeching halt. Receiving far less attention is the effect the pandemic has had on companion animals, especially those without an owner but also on pet owners struggling financially during this time. As federal, state and local governments worked to identify and support essential services, it became clear we needed to advocate for pets and the essential services that support them (e.g., animal shelters, animal control and veterinarians). It was critical that animal welfare would not be compromised and that these essential services remained open so they could continue to serve the public health and safety needs. During these efforts, every day heroes emerged in shelter workers, veterinary care professionals, animal control officers and others who put themselves on the front line every day and proved themselves essential workers in our community. Equally important was the need for formal communications to the general public, with accurate, factual and reliable information on companion animals and COVID-19. Animal shelters have
been challenged with balancing animal care and community demands with public health and safety and have had to create best practices and animal control protocols so that false perceptions and lack of reliable information did not result in more pets being surrendered to shelters. When people began losing their jobs in March and it became harder for people to care for their pets, the priority was to provide them with food donations to ensure pet owners didn’t have the make the hard decision to surrender their pets. Friends of Miami Animals Foundation (“FoMA”) was early to address these needs and helped fund nearly 1,500 pounds of free pet food through Miami Dade Animal Services (“MDAS”) sponsored food distribution efforts that have delivered nearly 20,000 pounds of food to date to pet owners. One pleasant surprise during the pandemic has been the community’s interest in fostering shelter pets. Shelters have reported record low occupancy during the pandemic due to their outreach in the community and every day heroes who were willing to take shelter pets into their homes temporarily. To support these fosters, FoMA moved quickly to provide supplies needed for pets going into temporary homes and in just a few weeks, over 250 pets went into foster homes and almost 300 were adopted. FoMA also helped initiate, with MDAS, weekly Facebook Live virtual adoption events to continue to share shelter pets with potential adopters as social distancing, limits on gatherings and other restrictions made it difficult for adopters to visit shelters. Yet, in many ways and despite all we’ve done, those of us working in animal welfare know that we are treading water. As the pandemic alters the way we live and conduct business, needs will grow, especially when unemployment benefit needs increase and eviction and other protections expire; and with that the needs of pets will also grow. At Friends of Miami Animals Foundation we are committed to continuing to do our part & continue to help our community’s pets and to support those on the front line: veterinary care professionals, shelter workers, fosters, adopters and pet owners and to continue to innovate and support life saving efforts in MiamDade County.
Yolanda Berkowitz, president of Friends of Miami Animals Foundation, Inc.,501(c)3 Non Profit Organization. 305-854-2800 Facebook: facebook.com/yolanda.berkowitz Instagram: @mrsyobe. @rescuedogsrockmia. @friendsofmiamianimals.com www.fomapets.org inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag INSPIRE HEALTH
27
mighty kids
TO AVOID Foods FEEDING YOUR ADHD CHILD
AN ALARMING PERCENTAGE OF CHILDREN ARE DIAGNOSED WITH ADHD–ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER–EACH YEAR. WHILE THE PARTICULAR CAUSES, ALONG WITH A PERMANENT CURE, REMAIN UNDISCOVERED, MANY PARENTS ARE SEEKING NEW TREATMENT METHODS, AS THEY ARE CONCERNED ABOUT THE LONG-TERM AND SHORT-TERM EFFECTS THAT COMMONLY APPLIED MEDICATIONS, SUCH AS RITALIN, MIGHT HAVE ON THEIR CHILDREN'S HEALTH. THANKFULLY, A POTENTIAL ALTERNATIVE TREATMENT EXISTS. Throughout the past decade, innovative research material has provided proof for the existence of a strong connection between the consumption of specific kinds
28
INSPIRE HEALTH
March § April 2021
of food and many ADHD neurological malfunctions. According to a recently-conducted Dutch study at the ADHD Research Centre in Eindhoven, in approximately 64 percent of the participating children, the symptoms of the mental disorder were primarily triggered by food. The recommendation of a nutritionist or a psychiatrist isn't necessary to conclude that excessive amounts of sugar shouldn't be a part of any child's diet, let alone a child who suffers from ADHD. However, the potential threat that sugar-like substances also pose to the latter is still widely unrecognized. Such substances include high fructose corn syrup, fructose, dextrose, erythritol, lactitol, maltitol, sorbitol and xylitol. Sodium is another commonly consumed substance which should be excluded from the diet of a child suffering from ADHD. Scientists believe that
By Dr. Marty Alexander
excessive amounts of sodium hinder neurons' ability to function properly, and since most ADHD symptoms are also believed to be caused by the malfunction of certain neurological processes and neurotransmitters, it is best to avoid salty snacks and foods whenever possible. The next substances on the list are food dyes and preservatives. Researchers at the University of Southampton have published a scientific study which revealed a powerful link between artificial food colors, the preservative sodium benzoate and hyperactivity. Obviously, food dyes can be found in any colored food, snack or drink, but they are not limited to these products; vitamins, salad dressings and barbecue sauces are not exempt from this category. The latter, along with carbonated drinks, are also carriers of the preservative sodium benzoate and should be avoided at all costs.
High Fructose Corn Syrup
Sodium
Apples
Blueberries Cauliflower Raspberries Mushrooms Cucumbers Radishes Avocados
Salicylates are natural chemicals, abundant among fruits and vegetables. They can also be found in aspirin and other pain-relieving medications. Despite their harmless appearance, according to a study conducted by Dr. Benjamin Feingold, the elimination of foods containing salicylates from his patients' diets reduced their ADHD symptoms by up to 50 percent. These chemicals are most common in apples, blueberries, raspberries, avocados, cauliflower, cucumbers, mushrooms and radishes. Lastly, it is strongly recommended to avoid allergens, such as wheat, milk, peanuts, soy and fish. Mental health professionals suspect that a slight sensitivity towards these substances can greatly affect brain functions. The popularity of the above-displayed food items might make it quite difficult to avoid them. Therefore, in order to maximize the effectiveness of the diet and reduce the complications that might arise from such a drastic dietary change, it is suggested to eliminate one
food item at a time, while simultaneously tracking and recording any changes in the child's behavior. In a study conducted in 2007, it was discovered that those children who consumed Ritalin on a regular basis for three years were, on average, one inch shorter and approximately four pounds lighter than the majority of their peers. While scientific investigations on the subject of food-related ADHD symptoms are quite limited, and the results of dieting may vary from one person to another, considering the universal health benefits which the avoidance of the above-displayed food products can promote, it is definitely worth a try.
s are Salicylate icals, m e h c l a r u nat among abundant tables. e g e v d n a fruits
inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
29
discover
WHAT DOES THE RESEARCH SAY?
Improve Sleep
WITH ACUPUNCTURE By S. J. Merens
M
30
any men and women try several suggestions for curing insomnia and become frustrated when nothing works. They may be unaware that acupuncture helps some individuals solve this problem. Just a few sessions can make a significant improvement in the ability to fall asleep and avoid waking up far too early.
levels of serotonin. Like melatonin, this hormone and neurotransmitter is also important in the sleeping and waking cycle. Serotonin helps with the waking process and with feeling alert and active during the day. Low serotonin levels can lead to lethargy and fatigue. This is one reason why some antidepressants are designed to increase serotonin levels in the brain.
HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE ENHANCE SLEEP? This method appears to increase the body's nighttime production of melatonin, a natural hormone that helps regulate the sleep cycle. The body normally increases melatonin production as daylight fades, leading to drowsiness at night when most people want to sleep. Melatonin supplements are available, but they cause side effects in some individuals. They also have negative interactions with many prescription drugs. The supplements are not effective for everyone. Another benefit of acupuncture is the possible increase in the brain's
WHAT TO EXPECT AT AN ACUPUNCTURE SESSION The practitioner evaluates the patient's physical condition and asks questions about general health and sleep issues. Typically, the person lies face down on a padded table while the acupuncturist gently places thin needles at specific points. Depending on what the practitioner believes is best for a
INSPIRE HEALTH
March § April 2021
A review of studies that was published in 2009 verified the effectiveness of acupuncture for enhancing sleep. The authors included 46 randomized trials with about 3,800 participants. They found acupuncture to be significantly more effective than no treatment for insomnia. Combining this therapy with prescription sleep medication boosted sleep quality as compared with medication alone. The same was true for combining acupuncture with herbs recommended for sleep enhancement. This review appeared in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine. A more recent review of studies was published in 2016 in Complementary Therapies in Medicine. Thirty randomized controlled trials were included with a total of nearly 2,400 participants. This review confirmed that true acupuncture was more effective than fake treatment. It also was superior to pharmaceutical treatment using benzodiazepines, such as alprazolam and diazepam. particular client, the treatment might last for up to 30 minutes. People generally find these sessions to be relaxing. They may need two or three sessions before positive results are experienced, but some notice improvement after only one appointment. Research has confirmed that acupuncture helps many individuals resolve their problems with insomnia. Anyone ready to try this strategy for sleep problems should schedule an appointment with an acupuncturist.
inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
31
healthy mind
Why Mindfulness
MATTERS
By Caitlyn McKey
H
ello fellow fast-paced life goer! How’s that super speedy life going for you right now? Experiencing a bit of burnout? Feeling a little stressed? How about that brain fog? Do you actually know where your keys are? Don’t worry my friend, you’re not alone. These are all side effects of the fast-paced modern life we’re all experiencing these days. As a professional using daily mindfulness-based art practices, I’m here to share with you a few small mindfulness practices that you can easily incorporate into your day-today, and the benefits that slowing down more regularly can have in your life. So, what exactly is mindfulness? Jon Kabat-Zinn, an American professor and author of "Mindful," defines it as “the awareness that arises through paying attention on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally, through the service of self-understanding, and wisdom.” Have you ever been reading
32
INSPIRE HEALTH
March § April 2021
a book, and in the middle of a sentence remember you need to go grocery shopping? Or maybe you need to take care of the laundry? But then you take mental note of that thought and then go right back to reading. The action of being distracted and then pulling your attention back to the original intentional action, in this case reading, is in its purest form mindfulness. Mindfulness is different from meditation in that it is more of an umbrella term under which meditation fits. What’s great about mindfulness is that you can get the same benefits from a daily meditation practice, but in a shorter amount of time. SOME SIMPLE MINDFULNESS PRACTICES INCLUDE: • breathing practices where you do a repeated cycle of breaths, focusing intentionally on the breath itself • mindful eating where you pay full attention with all five senses to the food you’re consuming • mindful walks where similarly to mindful eating you’re again using all five senses while going for a walk for anywhere from 1 minute to an hour in length
Difficult feelings, emotions, and pain are all factors of a human life, however, daily mindfulness practices show that these do not have to rule the ways in which we exist. Studies have shown that a daily mindfulness practice can lower stress, increase our overall sense of calm, increase social emotional skills by deepening our uses of empathy and compassion, aid in managing difficult feelings, reduce brain fog and brain chatter and increase our overall physical health. If you would like to learn more about the benefits of mindfulness, different mindfulness practices to incorporate into your day, or even more specifically mindfulness-based art practices be sure to check out my website deflatewithcait.com, or you can follow me on Instagram and Facebook @deflatewithcait, where I showcase my program weaving together mindfulness and arts-based practices to highlight the inherent mindful properties of art making.
inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
33
healthy destinations
By Chet McDonahue
V
acation isn't what it used to be. Gone are the days of stale resorts catering to the masses. Now travelers around the world crave fresh and exhilarating experiences. Enter glamping, a portmanteau of camping and glamour, that infuses the best of both worlds. Glamping gives people an opportunity to get back to the basics of camping without compromising the luxury of vacationing. It's an eco-friendly approach to lodging that allows travelers to immerse themselves in a region. Getting close to nature is a special moment, but existing within nature is unique in way that can only be experienced. NATURE RENEWAL YOGA AND MEDITATION RETREAT Not many people ever get the chance to sleep in a tipi in a secluded forest. This isn’t specifically marketed as a couple’s retreat, but whether or not you go with a loved one, self-love always thrives in nature. Make it a girls trip–glamping in style. The tipis are furnished with linens and beds for a glamping experience. If you’re not quite ready to dive into the tipi life, they have a few cabins available as well. Gourmet meals are served on the patio or by the creek. Between yoga sessions, soak in the hot tub on the property or connect with the abundant wildlife from afar. You’ll share the space with deer, turkey, elk and many other beautiful creatures. A local swimming hole is a 15-minute
34
INSPIRE HEALTH
March § April 2021
walk from the property; bring your mineral sunscreen! The healing power nature has on humans is being studied on many levels. It’s not uncommon to hear about forest bathing being prescribed for nature deficit disorder. This retreat tucked away in the Mohawk Valley east of Eugene, Oregon offers nourishment for your mind, body and spirit.
The Natural and Zen Style Tipi Village in Oregon July 30 - Aug 1, 2021 $250 deposit Total TBD
M U S T B E 2 1 + TO P U RC H A S E M O N W E D 1 0 AM 7 PM | T H U R S AT 1 0 AM 8 PM | S U N 1 1 AM 5 PM
8773083344
STAT E WI D E
CU R B SIDE
S A F E, E A S Y A N D R E L I A B L E D E L I V E RY. ORDERS ARE FULFILLED WITHIN 2448 HOURS. MINIMUM $100 ORDER.
S I M P L E, Q U I C K A N D CO N V E N I E N T C U R B S I D E P I C K U P AVA I L A B L E E V E RY DAY.
DELI VER Y
SER V I CE S
ONEPL ANT.US ST. PE TER SBU R G
1 5 0 2 2 N D ST S O U T H ST. PE T E R SBU R G F LO R I DA 3 37 1 2
P OR T ST. LUCIE
751 0 S O U T H F E D E R AL H W Y P O R T ST. LU C I E F LO R I DA 3 4 9 52
JACK SON VI LLE BE ACH 11 61 B E AC H B LV D JAC K S O N V I LLE B E AC H , F LO R I DA 32 2 5 0
Stunna - Half Inspire.qxp_Layout 1 11/1/17 12:24 PM Page 1
AVO N PAR K
2 9 9 US H W Y 2 7 S AVO N PAR K F LO R I DA 3 3 82 5
BOYN TO N BE ACH
2 02 E B OYN TO N B E AC H B LV D B OYN TO N B E AC H F LO R I DA 3 3 4 3 5
O R L ANDO
1 3 4 F E R N WO O D B LV D F E R N PAR K F LO R I DA 32 7 30
O CAL A
811 N E 3 6 T H AV E O CAL A F LO R I DA 3 4 4 70
@stunnasfit_somi
COME AND SEE what the hype is about
BOXING CARDIO | BOOT CAMP | PRIVATE TRAINING GROUP TRAINING | FIT KIDS | AMAZING TRAINERS
786.728.6737
6600 SW 62 AVE | SOUTH MIAMIinspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
35
gardening
s e e B
Welcoming
to Your Outdoor Space
E
By Whitney Price
ven small children are aware that bees have the potential to sting humans. Thus, on first seeing the title of this article, you'd be forgiven for wondering why someone would wish to attract bees to their garden. Bees, like many other creatures, are often unfairly maligned. While it is true that bees can sting, they will only do so if they perceive their lives to be in danger. Once a bee stings a human, it will die. In truth, bees are gorgeous, fuzzy endearing little creatures. They are
36
INSPIRE HEALTH
March § April 2021
charming and attractive to look at. Bees are not just aesthetically appealing. They do the world at large a great service. If it were not for the humble bee, the food you eat every day may well become a great deal more expensive. Bees are pollinators, and they do this job for free as they fly from one flower to the next. This means that bees fertilize crops. Without them, farmers would have to pollinate crops manually. This would cost billions of dollars every year.
Bee Survival
Fortunately, it doesn't take a great deal of effort to attract bees to your garden. It's something that anybody can do if they so wish. It all starts by considering what bees need in order to survive and thrive. Fundamentally, bees require what all other creatures need to ensure their survival. They can and will thrive if they have adequate food, shelter, and water. You can easily supply bees with all three of these things in your own garden or outdoor space.
Flowering Plants
Bees rely on flowering plants for all of the food they eat. Every day of its life, the worker bee will make its mission to gather food. This food is nectar and pollen. There are some flowers that bees prefer over others when it comes to the nectar and pollen they consume. To fill your outdoor space with culinary delights for bees, simply choose from an assortment of trees, shrubs, flowers and herbs that they are known to enjoy. Bees are partial to nectar and pollen produced by apple trees, hawthorn, ivy, honeysuckle, abelia, pussy willow, mahonia, crocus, snowdrop, sedum, lungwort, phacelia, perennial wallflowers, moderna, winter aconite, rosemary, chives, sage and marjoram. Planting some of these in your garden will ensure that they have food to eat.
Bee Shelter
You can very easily provide bees with adequate shelter in your garden, too. There are many ways of supplying bees with a nest to shelter in. You will find many tips and ideas about this on the Internet. You can choose whichever suits you and your means. Do you have a drill in the family toolbox? Is there an old chunk of wood lying around somewhere? Supplying bees with a home can be as simple as using a drill to bore holes in an old piece of wood in order to provide a quick and easy nest for them. You can also put any plastic water or soda bottles you may have amassed to good ecological use by using them to build a nest for bees. To do this, begin by cutting the tops off the bottles. Next, arrange the bottles together in a wooden or metal, four-sided rectangle or square structure. A large box without a top will suffice. The end with the top cut off should be facing outwards. Finally, fill the bottles with lengths of old pieces of grass, pieces of twig and hollow flower stems. If you can't be bothered with the rigmarole of constructing your own bees nest using plastic bottles, you can still provide a nest for bees if you have a little extra cash with which to do so. You can buy a ready-made nest for bees from many online outlets. You also have the option of buying a bees nest from many brick and mortar stores. Simply peruse what is available and choose a product you like.
Bee Hydration
Bees also require water, so do not forget to ensure that you provide them with a source. To provide bees with water, simply leave a large plastic vessel in your garden close to their nest. Over time the vessel will fill with rainwater providing the bees with the hydration they need to survive.
Now Enjoy
Hopefully, you now understand how easy it is to create a bee-friendly garden, and why it's such a positive thing to do. This move will benefit you and your family directly, too. It means you can look forward to tending and enjoying your bee-friendly outdoor space during the clement weather months every year. Spending time outdoors enjoying nature is always wonderful. inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
37
natural beauty
REDUCING SKIN
SENSITIVITY By J. L. Thompson
A
lot of people have problems with their skin when they use certain skincare products or makeup. Because of this sensitivity, they avoid those products in the future, figuring that this will solve the problem. However, the reason for the skin sensitivity is often less a matter of the products themselves and more a matter of bad skincare habits. If you break out in rashes or zits after using a skincare or makeup product, it is a good idea to figure out if your reaction is actually a reaction to those products or if it is really caused by something else. After all, you can't take care of the problem if you don't understand the cause. Read on to learn skincare tips that could make your skin less prone to breaking out. Hydrate Your Skin If your skin is prone to dryness, it is also more prone to developing rashes. Drink at least eight glasses of water a day, and apply a hypoallergenic moisturizer daily to keep your skin moist. Properly hydrated skin resists
38
INSPIRE HEALTH
March § April 2018 2021
cracking and keeps allergens from getting inside where they can cause problems. Eat Food that's Good for Your Skin Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Not only do they help keep your skin hydrated, they also contain plenty of vitamins and minerals that help keep your skin healthy. Avoid eating a lot of spicy food or drinking a lot of alcohol or caffeinated drinks, because these things can make your skin more sensitive. Limit Your Exposure to the Sun Sun exposure can make sensitive skin more prone to reddening and cracking. Make sure to apply sun protection whenever you go outside. Using umbrellas, hats, and sunglasses will also protect your skin from getting too much sun. Be Careful of Air Conditioning and Heating Your skin may also need protection inside. If your home has air
conditioning or forced air heating, you will need to be vigilant about keeping your skin moisturized. Both of these kinds of temperature control can dry out your skin. Drink plenty of water and apply moisturizer frequently. Avoid Skin Products with Synthetic Fragrances and Artificial Colors Fragrances and dyes are in skin care products because they supposedly make the products more appealing. They do not actually do anything for your skin, though, and they can even cause allergic reactions, making your skin more sensitive. Avoiding skincare products and makeup because they make your skin break out is not taking care of your skin problem, it is just avoiding the problem. If you take better care of your skin, you might not only avoid bad reactions to these products, you can also reduce the risk of sudden rashes and acne breakouts from other causes. Try these skincare tips and see if they make your skin problems go away. However, a persistent skin problem that does not respond to anything is a matter for a dermatologist.
NON
⬩
CONSUMABLES
⬩
D
C
ER
TIFIE
GMO
TOPICALS
NICA GA
GR
⬩
Y LL
OR
GMP
OWN
PETS
⬩
CBD Path is a company on a mission to offer superior quality CBD products specific to each customer’s unique needs. We’ve seen firsthand how CBD has changed the lives of countless friends, family, and members of the veteran community. We’ve seen our loved ones recover from chronic pain, insomnia, inflammation, anxiety, and depression. We stand by our veterans, and we know just how powerful an impact the right support can make. A portion of our proceeds goes to support a nonprofit veteran organization. Purchase our products and learn about our Military Discount and Affiliate Program at: www.thecbdpath.com
inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
39
super food
d e e s i n A By Christian Dischler ANISEED PERVADES OUR HISTORY BOOKS AS A MULTI-PURPOSE HEALING COMPONENT. ORIGINALLY CULTIVATED IN THE MEDITERRANEAN, THIS NATURALLY SWEET SEED IS NOW GROWN ALL OVER THE WORLD AND FOUND IN COUNTLESS CUISINES. A member of the same species as cumin, this superfood is often used to infuse soups or enhance baked goods with its unique flavor profile. And while it wasn't always called a superfood, its benefits are well documented in Ancient Rome. It was commonplace for the wealthy Romans to gorge themselves on illustrious feasts. At the meal's end, cakes infused with aniseed were served to ease digestion. Its licorice flavor made the spiced cakes a delicacy, but the aniseed's true value lies in it's medicinal properties. From treating issues like nausea, asthma and vomiting, to providing a natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial boost to our bodies. This unassuming superfood takes spicing up a favorite dish to another level. Whether suffering from IBS or heartburn, acidic foods can have a negative and lasting impact on our digestive tract. Aniseed boasts
40
INSPIRE HEALTH
March § April 2021
a healthy amount of the phytonutrient anethole, which is linked to relaxing our parasympathetic nervous system. This system is in charge of regulating our digestive tract. Providing it with a supportive nudge from aniseed allows our body to self-treat colic conditions, chronic indigestion and constipation. It also relieves tightness in our muscles, easing our gastrointestinal stress and even providing relief for menstrual cramps. Chances are your favorite herbal tea when you're sick includes aniseed as an ingredient. This is because its full of antioxidant vitamins and anti-inflammatory properties that induce a calming effect on our respiratory tracts. Reducing swelling in the air passages that dictate breathing is a significant relief for the common cold, but also for those who suffer from asthma. By giving
our bodies added support through all-natural remedies, we provide comfort to those strained systems, and offer respite to the rest of our body's important functions. Introduce aniseed into your pantry and experience the plethora of health benefits this superseed provides. Use it to add layers of flavor to your favorite savory soup recipe, steep it with hot water to make a homemade remedy for nausea or a cold, or take a hint from the Romans by serving a delicious aniseed baked good after your next feast. You'll be pleased with the intense flavor it can bring to an otherwise ordinary dish, and the all-natural boost it will provide your overall health.
inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
INSPIRE HEALTH
41
“We’ve never been more glad we live at The Palace than right now.”
We first moved here for the luxury and the social life, we admit. But the care keeps getting better and better. Our vaccines are here already… the staff is so well-trained… all the safety programs are in place. And during this pandemic, the whole place keeps running like a well-oiled machine. We simply can’t imagine a place right now where someone our age could be safer or happier. And every day we tell our daughter—whose idea it was—we’re so glad you knew it was the right place for us.
If you are a senior, or just love one, call us at 305-445-7444 to schedule your safe and comfortable visit today.
Luxury Living for Seniors INSPIRE HEALTH 43 One Andalusia Avenue, Coral Gables, FL 33134 · 305.445.7444 · www.PalaceCoralGables.com inspirehealthmag.com § #inspirehealthmag
Emergency care is just a call away. Emergencies can’t wait, so please do not delay care. Because your safe care is our #1 priority, we are now offering Tele-ER visits so you can speak with an ER physician without leaving home. It only takes two steps: 1. Call 1-833-4-TELE-ER to schedule an appointment. A nurse or member of our emergency team will ask you about your health problem and complete your registration. Basic information, like name, DOB and insurance policy information will be needed.
2. Prepare your smartphone, tablet or computer for the Zoom call. If using a laptop or desktop, please use the link our nurse will share at the time of your appointment. You may also enter the meeting ID at https://zoom.us/ join. If using a smartphone or tablet, please download the Zoom app and enter the meeting ID at the time of your appointment.
To schedule a Tele-ER visit, call 1-833-4-TELE-ER (8353-37) For life-threatening emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest ER.
44
INSPIRE HEALTH
March § April 2021