Living.Well Feb 15

FEBRUARY 2015

LIVING WELL MAGAZINE™

RELATIONSHIP HACKS HEART HEALTHY FOODS

DARK CHOCOLATE IT DOES A BODY GOOD

iHURT

RESTORATIVE YOGA HEALTH + HOME + FOOD + WEALTH + STYLE = recycle: share this magazine

words from the editors and publishers:

One month into your New Year’s Resolution, you may be looking for some extra motivation! And, as our friends over at 302Health recognized this month, getting—and staying—healthy in Delaware starts with Living Well…magazine. Our magazine is about finding various paths to healthy living for a variety of people.

Discovering and maintaining a health conscious lifestyle starts with something consistent. Living.Well Magazine has consistently provided cutting edge, unique, and most importantly, local options, information, and solutions for you to get, and stay, healthier.

I ‘m not sure if there is a proven correlation between what I know is cliché and time flying by. My sister-in-law, insists that it is age related. She says that for her time has gone from flying to something more like moving in light years. I’m not moving in light years yet, but it does seem as though we move in and out of seasons and events in a flash. We are now finding ourselves well into February and still wondering how the holidays could already be over. After finishing the Thanksgiving feast there’s no rest for the weary as the holiday season picks us up like a whirlwind, ending as quickly as it began, and not a day late but definitely several dollars short.

Holidays and long weekends have become especially significant to us since our lives revolve Advertising Inquiries: around our children and our pets; for us, its about the time we get to spend with the people we love. Now that we have children in school and working out of state,it is difficult to take time for visits so we’ll celebrate almost anything! Especially if it means time off and getting Brian Strauss -Publisher together. Well whether time is moving faster or not, Carp Diem because we never know Sales@livingwellmagazine.net what tomorrow will bring. February is a great month for catching up on routine doctors visits and yearly exams. See your general practitioner if its been awhile since your last visit.

302-355-0929 Schedule a Mammogram if you intended to have one in October during Breast Cancer Awareness Month but never got around to doing so. Start working on your New Year’s resolutions if you haven’t already. Have a positive attitude and don’t get stressed out about Lita Latham - Account it because you have a whole year to work on being successful. If you happen to be someone Executive who suffers from SAD Syndrome (Seasonal Affective Disorder), at the offices of LWM we Lita@livingwellmagazine.net all suffer from SAD during the winter months, but have found something that really makes a difference. We have a floor lamp made by Verilux that uses a bulb that simulates the sun.

302-750-0898 Verilux makes a variety of what they call “Happylights”, however I believe you can purchase light bulbs that simulate the sun, without purchasing the whole lamp. Join LWM on Friday, February 6th, and “Go Red”, but don’t just wear red, understand, and know how you can Looking To Start Your Own live your life “Heart Healthy”, and wear your red proudly.

Think Spring! It’s almost here!...and the way time is flying it will be Business?

Editors / Publishers here faster than you think, lol.

Diane and Brian You could be a LIVING.WELL Strauss MAGAZINE ASSOCIATE Enjoy! Brian and Diane Associate Editor: Michael Strauss PUBLISHER puppy love™ Creator Living Well Magazine is Sean Strauss Media Development expanding into all areas of Jonelle Jentilucci the country.

Resident Artist and Creator of the Business Opportunities are Valentino caricature. available: Liam McWilliams sales@livingwellmagazine.net Design and Graphics Diane Strauss VOLUME 10 NUMBER 2 LIVING.WELL MAGAZINE (ISSN 2325-2448) published monthly by Savendale Media Group, 1519 Old Coach Road Newark, Delaware 19711 Phone:302-355-0929 Fax:302-454-1867 www.livingwellmagazine.net

www.livingwellmagazine.net LIVING.WELL MAGAZINE© is a monthly publication distributed regionally. All articles and advertisements are accepted in good faith. Living Well Magazine assumes no responsibility or liability for any claims, conditions, products, services, errors, and/or opinions expressed through articles and advertisements appearing in this publication. Please check with your primary health care provider before making any changes.

Living Well Magazine welcomes your comments and suggestions.

No part of LIVING WELL MAGAZINE™ may be reproduced in any form without permission and written consent. Copyright, All rights reserved. 2014 Various Trademarks Used By Permission Of Their Respective Owners

Cover: designed by dcstrauss puppy love™ Millie and Boo share a drink of water together, and Boo (cat) is getting a bath at the same time.

www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

3

inside

The Sweetest Ever Love Gift

by Karen Verna Carlson

HEART HEALTHY

24

FO 8

LWMLIVINGWELLMAGAZINE

D

O

What’s Love Got To Do With It?

by Suzanne Eder

www.facebook.com/

S

@livingwellmag

15

The Optimist vs. Reality

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK AND FOLLOW US ON TWITTER FOR POP-UP GIVEAWAYS!

by Karen Jessee

Do You Have Sciatica Of An Organ?

by Dr. Scott Rosenthal

32

Ask The Vet Dr. Rose Dileva

26

Hands on Health Ann Wilkinson P.T.M.S.

Follow our Pinterest Boards at:

27

Relationship Hacks: 22 Simple Fixes For Common Issues (Part 1) with Dianna Palimere, PhD, LCSW Tech Addicted: With Sean

30

iHurt

by Danny Singles, PT, DPT, MA

28

http://www.pinterest.com/ livingwellmag/ 16

LWM TRENDS

10 Times During Your Busy Day— You Can Take The Time To Exercise

by Alisa Rose

Grow Fresh Air

by Peg Castorani

The prestigious— Living.Well Magazine Tried and True award is given only awarded to products and companies that we have used and can honestly say they were great! If it has the LWM Tried and True Award on it, we are sure that you will too.

31

36

12

14

FY I 6 Th

15

e Art of Eati

ng 4

TRUE™ AWARD

34

Less Doing, More Being: How Restorative Yoga Might Just Be the New Activity You Need This Year

By Gail Grossman

&

16

AGAZIN ™ E

by Erica Reed

TRIED

LL M

Dark Chocolate - It Does A Body Good!

WE

LIVIN G.

www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

38

10

Where’s Valentino?

Robert A. Penna, DMD,.PA Specialist in Orthodontics

...and beautiful smiles

Offering you CLEAR choices over conventional braces Invisalign , Invisalign Teen and Clarity™ Braces.

Personalized | Private

Orthodontic Care

®

Children and Adult

®

Call to Schedule a Complimentary Consultation.

Convenient early morning and evening appointments available.

302.998.8783 Most insurance accepted. We also offer a variety of payment options to meet your needs and financing is available.

Centerville Rd., Suite 215 Wilmington, DE 19808

www.pennaortho.com

Excellence in Healthcare 24 hour nursing care Short term rehabilitation State if the art wound care treatment Restorative nursing program

6525 Lancaster Pike Hockessin DE 19707 302-998-0181

www.regalheightshealthcare.com

801 N. Broom Street Wilmington, DE 19806 302-654-8400

www.livingwellmagazine.net

Specialized dementia care Respite care Hospice care Social Services

318 S. Orange Street Media, PA 19063 610-566-1400 www.sterlingcr.com

www.sterlinghcr.com

2630 Woodland Road Roslyn, PA 19001 215-884-6776

www.brooksidehealthcare.com

February 2015

5

5 Myths about the cause of Acne 1: You can get acne from sweating Sweating does not cause acne. Sweat glands are not the same as oil pores. While sweat alone cannot cause acne, there is a condition called acne mechanica, which is a form of acne that is caused by a combination of heat, friction and covered skin. It’s often found on athletes who sweat under their helmets. Other culprits of acne mechanica include tight clothing, snug backpack straps, and headbands worn for long periods of time.

2: Eating junk foods will make you break out The dermatological community has long dispelled the idea that junk foods, such as French fries and chocolate, cause acne. However, there is new research linking diet to acne. Foods with a high-glycemic level (white breads sugary drinks, processed foods) are thought to trigger the production of androgens, a hormone responsible for oil production.

3: Washing your face more frequently prevents breakouts Actually, over-washing your face can make acne worse.

Washing your face any more than twice a day can cause drying of the skin, which can cause skin to produce more oil to overcompensate.

4: Sun exposure helps clear up acne While “drying out acne” in the sun may seem like a good idea, it’s not. The sun not only causes premature aging, but it does nothing to help clear up or heal acne.

A suntan may help mask the redness of zits, but it’s only temporary. Once the tan fades, the pimples can come back in full force thanks to ultraviolet light exposure.

5: Applying toothpaste to a zit will clear it up The thinking behind the toothpaste-as-acne-treatment myth is that toothpaste dries out the zit and therefore gets rid of it. Legitimate acne medications, such as salicylic acid and benzoyl peroxide, treat zits with the side effect of dry skin, leading people to believe that toothpaste works just the same. Not so. Toothpaste is not an effective acne treatment, not to mention it contains ingredients that can irritate the skin.

Source:The Schweiger Dermatology Group

6

Did you know the average professional works on more than 30 projects at any given time, and is interrupted approximately seven times per hour?

FYI

8 Things You Should Never Use Past Their Expiration Dates Over the last several years food recalls have continued to be on the upswing.. So when in doubt,throw it out! It is more important that ever to check the expiration dates of foods. With the advent of multiple cases of salmonella, listeria, and other foodborne bacterias can cause serious illness or even death. Remember sell by dates are not neccesarily the same as expiration dates..

Mixed Greens Mixed greens and bagged salad mixes have a tendency to carry certain bacteria associated with poor sanitation because they are handled so frequently. Mixed greens also get a dark, slimy appearance as they expire.

Fresh Berries Fresh berries can carry a parasite called cyclospora. Always wash berries thoroughly before consuming them and don’t use them past their expiration date or once they begin to break down.

Deli Meats Deli meat should never be consumed past its expiration date, even if it hasn’t developed a strange odor or slimy appearance; it can carry listeria, bacteria that can grow in cold temperatures. That means listeria can thrive even if your deli meat has been properly stored in the refrigerator.

Eggs The chances of an egg being contaminated inside the shell are very low but egg shells commonly carry bacteria. If your eggs have passed their expiration date it’s best to either toss them or use them for hard-boiled eggs.

Ground Meats Ground meats are generally more dangerous to consume postexpiration date when compared with whole cuts of meat; ground meats are handled more (including the grinding process) and may include meat from many different slaughterhouses – all this adds up to more opportunities for contamination.

Soft Cheeses Soft cheeses (especially those made with unpasteurized milk) can be contaminated with listeria. With soft cheeses it’s difficult to effectively trim away any moldy or spoiled portions. If soft cheeses like queso fresco, feta, brie, or blue are past their expiration date it’s best to throw them away.

Alfafa Sprouts Alfalfa sprouts can be dangerous to consume after their expiration date as well. The sprouts need a warm, moist environment to grow, the same environment bacteria needs to thrive. Since spouts are most often eaten raw, it’s difficult to eliminate any bacteria that may be present.

Raw Chicken Consumer Reports tested 300 store-bought chicken breasts for bacteria; 97% of the chicken breasts were contaminated — not surprising given the conditions under which chickens are raised, and rising nationwide concerns about antibiotic-resistant bacteria.

If your chicken is past its expiration date, toss it!

www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

7

What’s

Got to Do With It?

I decided to share a love story with you this month, in honor of Valentine’s Day. I hope you will – pun intended – take it to heart.

Here goes.

One night years ago, during a period of deep uncertainty in my life, I found myself lying wide awake, tossing and turning and agonizing over a mistake I’d made that I was sure would cost me dearly. I honestly cannot remember what it was, but I remember how I felt: Tortured. Worthless. Despairing. Hopeless.

It wasn’t a good night.

Tossed repeatedly on the raging currents of my self-judgment and fearful predictions of a barren future, I finally exhausted myself.

The terrorizing thoughts subsided for the briefest of moments.

And in that small, still space, a different kind of thought emerged.

It was a simple question, asked in a very quiet voice: So, can you love yourself even now?

The question blanketed me in a cocoon of Grace. I was suddenly calm, and the simple yet challenging question awakened me to a deeper truth I had understood only superficially until that moment: love does not have to be earned. Love cannot be earned, nor can it be taken away. There is no mistake bigger than Love. Love is unconditional. Love simply is.

My answer was immediate and sure: Yes. Yes, I was willing to love myself even with my flaws and blindspots and mistakes. It was the only answer that made sense. To say No to my own love would have required far more effort and would have yielded nothing more than continued pain.

That moment marked a turning point for me. I was able to move forward from the mistake, vowing to love myself each step of the 8

by Suzanne Eder

way. I developed an expanded level of awareness of the countless, insidious ways – and the countless, blatantly obvious ways – we diminish ourselves through self-judgment, and I’ve taught myself and others how to cultivate a genuine self-love that is respectful, expansive and generous.

I’m still learning, of course. I suspect this is the kind of learning that could deepen and expand over a lifetime, or many lifetimes.

There’s no such thing as “enough” or “done” when it comes to Love. Love is in infinite supply, available at all times. Love is, essentially, who we are.

I know it doesn’t always seem that way. We could point to countless examples of harshness and abuse, evidenced in outer circumstances as well as inner dialogues, such as the one that plagued me that lonely night. Yet those experiences do not reflect the absence of Love. They reflect our unawareness of the Love that we are.

That is why self-judgment can never, ever get us where we want to go, if what we want is peace and fulfillment. It is in judging ourselves as not enough in some way that we turn away from Love, and it is in turning away from Love that we make choices that do not serve us. If we judge the choices, we perpetuate the cycle and move further and further away from an experience of the Love that we are. That is why, when we’re feeling badly about ourselves or the choices we’ve made, we must learn to refrain from further judgment. We must find a way to open to love, just as we are. That is the only sane path forward.

In her book, Dying to Be Me: My Journey from Cancer, to Near Death, to True Healing, bestselling author Anita Moorjani states eloquently, with respect to the relationship between self-love and health, “Our biology responds to our awareness.” I believe the whole of our lives responds to our awareness, so the more aware

www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

— continued on next page

— continued from previous page

we are of our innate goodness, the more we live in alignment with our deepest truth. Every relationship and every experience is infused with, and uplifted by, our loving presence.

I’ll be the first to admit that it’s more than a wee bit challenging to sustain that level of awareness and presence, day in and day out.

I wish I could tell you that, since that turning-point-moment-ofGrace, I have been deeply fulfilled at all times and have not made any more mistakes. (Of course, if I told you that, you wouldn’t believe me, wise one that you are.) But what I can tell you is this: Opening to your own love will always move you in the direction you want to go.

Just be willing. Ask simple questions such as, “How can I love myself through this?” or “What would loving myself look like right now?” Assume that it’s possible. Hold a clear intention to experience the deepest level of self-love you’ve ever known.

Explore and experiment. Look for new ways to listen to yourself, to respect yourself, to soothe yourself and to support yourself.

Refuse to kick yourself when you’re down. Give yourself time and space for going deeply within, to the very center of your being.

Honor your longings, your talents and your innumerable sterling qualities.

And if you’re in a playful mood, find a Valentine’s Day card that makes you think, “I wish someone felt this way about me” – and mail it to yourself.

Don’t forget to sign it. You are worthy of your own deepest love.

Suzanne will be a featured presenter in the upcoming FREE video summit, Making Spirituality Tangible, hosted by Tara Vossenkemper, founder of Simplify Your Existence. The summit will air March 12, 2015. Sign up at: www.makingspiritualitytangible.com.

Suzanne Eder is award-winning writer, teacher and transformational life coach, Suzanne Eder started her professional career as a CPA and enjoyed a highly successful corporate career in both Finance and Human Resources. She is a graduate of the Barbara Brennan School of Healing’s intensive four-year program in mind-body-spirit healing, and is a former fitness instructor who taught aerobics, body sculpting and yoga for 16 years. She has also been initiated in Divine Openings, an extraordinary evolutionary process which powerfully supports clients in awakening to their magnificence. Through her writing, classes and workshops she offers inspired and practical counsel in all areas related to personal growth and transformation. Suzanne can be reached at see@mysolidground.com or (302)888-2138. www.livingwellmagazine.net

(302) 429-0124

info@forgottencats.org or www.forgottencats.org Delaware State Employess Charitable Campaign Agency #50135 United Way #9571 Forgotten Cats is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. Contributions are tax deductible to the extent allowed by U.S. law .

February 2015

9

Home Office Pets Children Elders Karen Carlson

302-777-3964

pin

g

it b u

DE, PA, MD

er

K ee

spa services

30 y ears.

C.B.T.

All Brands Repaired Revitalizing Older Spas Custom Spa Covers

bbly for

ov

Email or Call— CBTSpaService@yahoo.com 302.526.9300 610.932.7033 schedule an appointment today

V

Caricature created by: Liam McWilliams

Enter: Where’s Valentino Contest Find Answers Here ow! There are thousands of readers who are searching for Valentino. He is hidden somewhere on the pages of each issue. The entries keep pouring in.

We hope you have fun looking and will continue your quest to find Valentino. When you find him please email us at: info@livingwellmagazine.net [Please type “Valentino” on the subject line]. — keep searching and entering the “Where’s Valentino!” Contest every month for your chance for some great LWM gifts, subscriptions, T-shirts, mugs, cookbooks ,books, videos, etc. Or enter on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/LWMlivingwellmagazine (be sure to inbox us so you aren’t sharing his location with everyone).

Make sure you like the page first. Please remember to share our page with your friends! Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest at Pinterest.com/livingwellmag or Twitter @ livingwellmag BELOW IS THE ANSWER TO LAST MONTH’S WHERE’S VALENTINO!

W

In January, Valentino can be found on page 5, in the Ad for the Residences at Lighthouse Cove in Dewey Beach, He was checking out the panoramic views in the Lighthouse .When you find him, send us an email at Info@livingwellmagazine. net ( be sure to put Valentino or Where’s Valentino in the subject line.. then make sure you follow us on Twitter @livingwellmag and follow us on Facebook at: www. facebook.com/lwmlivingwellmagazine Don’t Forget to check out our Pinterest pages follow us at http://www. pinterest.com/livingwellmag

SUBSCRIBE TODAY! WE DON’T WANT YOU TO MISS A THING. Just $24.00 for an entire year of LWM.

Call us or email us today: 302-355-0929 sales@livingwellmagazine.net 10

ALENTINO!

www.livingwellmagazine.net

Living Well is your Answer to Healthy Living in Delaware and Everywhere!

LIVING.WELL MAGAZINE

SEE YOU THERE! February 2015

FREE

Specializing In:

Personal Accidental Injuries & Criminal Defense

Initial Consultation Evenings, weekends,

in home or hospital visits available for your convenience.

Philip M. Finestrauss, P.A. Admitted in DE & PA

“Get the personal attention you deserve with responsible solutions to difficult issues.”

302-984-1600

email: pfinestrauss@verizon.net

1404 N. King Street | Wilm., DE 19801

www.finestrauss.com

Delaware’s Premier Dr. S. Rosenthal Doctor of chiropractic Award Winning Columnist

DE Work Comp

Certified

You can’t erase the accident, but you can erase the pain. rosenthalchiropractic.com

Dr. Dianna Palimere, PhD, LCSW

1601 Milltown Road, Suite 8 ■ Wilmington, DE 19808

A holistic approach to treatment interventions that include, but are not limited to: • Couples Psychotherapy 302.691.3730

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Sex therapy is a specialized area of psychotherapy that • Gestalt Therapy addresses specific sexual • Group Psychotherapy issues and concerns.

• Body-Oriented Psychotherapy There is no physical contact between the therapist and • Erectile Dysfunction the client. The therapist is a licensed mental health • Negative Body Image professional, trained • Low Sex Drive to provide in-depth psychotherapy with a • Postpartum Depression specialization in clinical • Relationships human sexuality.

• Fertility Concerns sextherapyindelaware.com

S imply O rganized Karen Jessee:

Koren Specific Laser Therapy Technique Office

Auto & Workers’ Compensation

302.999.0633

SEX THERAPY IN DELAWARE

Most Insurance Accepted.

302.655.4637 Cell: 302.897.9638 jessimple@rcn.com

Solutions for your Home & Office q organizing q clutter q resettling q personal shopping q downsizing design

An easier way to live and work.

A Family Tradition Since 1965.

EFFECTIVE COMFORTABLE DRUG FREE!

507 S. Maryland Ave. Wilmington, DE 19804 www.livingwellmagazine.net

www.nowsimplyorganized.com February 2015

11

LESS DOING, MORE BEING:

How Restorative Yoga Might Just Be The New Activity You Need This Year

By Gail Grossman

So you want to incorporate yoga into your life in 2015? It’s an interesting thing we do to ourselves, put pressure on ourselves to lose weight, exercise more, achieve more in the new year, and just maybe you’ve decided that yoga would be a great adjunct to all that you want to include in the next year. The hard part is, that we have trouble getting it all in, and by February most of the goals we have set for ourselves have been forgotten. So how can you balance out all the “doing”? How about with a little “being”.Being?

That’s a little strange? What does being have to do with yoga?

If you’ve decided yoga was one of the things you wanted to “do”, how about a little Restorative Yoga? Many people think “I don’t need to restore!” Take some time to reflect on why the activities you have decided to incorporate in your life have already dropped off the to do list. More often than not, people get burnt out from over doing. The practice of Restorative Yoga is all about doing less and gaining the same benefits of a more active yoga practice.

Restorative Yoga was initially created from the Iyengar system of yoga. In Iyengar yoga, there is a therapeutic element that was derived from the medical classes that B.K.S. Iyengar held at his institute. People came from all over to be “treated” by this yoga master. Judith Hanson Lasater, a long time student of B.K.S. Iyengar, is known for bringing Restorative Yoga to the U.S. Judith, who is not only a yoga teacher, but a physical therapist wrote a book called Relax and Renew, which really introduced Restorative Yoga to the mainstream. Judith is responsible for sharing her knowledge with thousands of yoga teachers around the world who share this practice with others. The interesting thing to note about Restorative Yoga is that although it started out as a practice to help people with injuries and illnesses, it has become a practice that every person can utilize to make their lives better!

It’s a practice that balances out all that you do. Yoga is a wonderful practice in and of itself. A more active yoga practice definitely has 12

its place. This type of practice is one that balances out your more active practices, whether it is cardiovascular activities, weight lifting or other types of fitness. It is something that does not even have to be done as a class. Sometimes doing one restorative yoga pose for 15-20 minutes makes all the difference in how you feel in body, mind and spirit.

Many people find this practice to be difficult because you need to be still, and quiet, and you are left with your busy mind to contend with. That can be a scary thing. The mind is one of the Koshas in Yoga. If you’re not familiar with what that is, there are 5 of them.

They are translated to mean a veil or a layer. These veils obscure us from our true selves. The veil that is the mind has to do with the ego, and who we take ourselves to be. When we can move past this layer, we get more closely connected to our inner wisdom, this is also considered to be a veil, but not one that keeps us from connecting to our true self. When we start to connect with the wisdom, we can make decisions that help us lead the lives we were meant to live. That way we can experience true bliss.

So if someone said to you, do this practice, and you will be more connected to your true self and be able to live in bliss, wouldn’t you want to give it a try?

An additional concept to draw from in understanding this practice is the Relaxation Response, which Dr. Herbert Benson is known for his research in. Most people understand the concept of fight or flight, which has to do with our nervous system thinking that when stress enters it’s as if we are running from a bear. Our parasympathetic nervous system helps us create a “rest or digest” atmosphere, which is about shutting down the fight or flight response, during this time, heart rate decreases, muscles relax and breathing slows down. Another benefit is that blood pressure drops.

www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

Here are some concepts/poses from the book Restorative Yoga for Life, which you can try. It is one that is meant to soften the edges of your day, help you let go, and find some peace.

1) Child’s pose with a yoga block under forehead This is helpful, as it puts pressure on the vagus nerve, which regulates the heart rate, and ultimately helps you sleep and digest better. It’s also a pose that causes what we call pratyahara or sense withdrawal. This has a very calming affect on the body and mind.

2) Supported Bound Angle Pose

Place a bolster under the knees and then lay flat on your back.

Support your head with a blanket for more comfort. You can use an eye pillow in this posture for more relaxation. Stay here for 10 minutes or longer.

For all these poses, it’s best to have a dark, quiet and warm space to rest for a minimum of 5 to a maximum of 20 minutes a pose.

This should be a great introduction to Restorative Yoga for you.

For further information, you can check out Restorative Yoga for Life, by Gail Boorstein Grossman, or visit www.gailgrossmanyoga. com for more information.

Sit in front of a bolster and lay down over it lengthwise. Bring the soles of your feet together and open your knees out to the sides. You can place a block under each thigh for support. In addition to the pose, if you use an eye pillow it will help the body to relax and the gentle pressure on the eyes is just enough to cause oculocardiac reflex.

3) Legs up the wall pose (with bolster or block) Curl up in a fetal position so that your buttocks touch the wall, then lay on your back bringing your legs up the wall at a 90-degree angle with your torso. Bend your knees and press your feet into the wall to lift your torso off the floor and place a block or bolster under your low back at your sacrum (which should be about 6 inches from the wall). This pose is an inversion, which has a very relaxing affect on the nervous system. It’s great to focus on deep belly breaths in the postures. This allows the neuroreceptors to send messages to your brain that it is time for relaxing.

4) Belly Down Twist Sit at a 90-degree angle to the bolster. Bring your right hip up to the bolster, bend your knees and then bring your hands on each side of the bolster, turn your belly towards the bolster and lay down over the bolster. Turn your head either towards your knees or away from your knees. Make sure you relax and allow yourself to be supported by the bolster. Repeat on the opposite side.

About the author: Gail Grossman, E-RYT 500, CYKT, owner of Om Sweet Om Yoga, Port Washington, NY and author of Yoga Journal Presents Restorative Yoga for Life. Teaching yoga since 2000, graduate of YogaKids and current trainer. Trainings with Alan Finger, Janice Ventresca, and Cora Wen. She also studied with Judith Lasater, Leslie Kaminoff, Gabriel Halpern, Kofi Busia and Leslie Howard.

Please see more at www.gailgrossmanyoga.com.

5) Savasana (final relaxation)

www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

13

FYI HOME GROWN CAFÉ IS HIRING … FARMERS! Why Are Local And Regional Food Systems Important?

Supporting local and regional food systems helps support local, sustainably run farms, helping to protect our health and the health of our communities, and helps stimulate local economies.

Sustainability Local food systems rely upon a network of small, usually sustainably run, family farms (rather than large industrially run farms) as the source of farm products. Industrial farming negatively impacts the environment in a myriad ways by polluting the air, surface water, and groundwater, over-consuming fossil fuel and water resources, degrading soil quality, inducing erosion, and accelerating the loss of biodiversity. Industrial agriculture also adversely affects the health of farm workers, degrades the socioeconomic fabric of surrounding communities, and impairs the health and quality of life of community residents. In addition, although the concept of “food miles” (i.e., the number of miles a food item travels from farm to consumer) has been criticized as an unreliable indicator of the environmental impact of industrially produced food, It should be noted that conventional food is estimated to typically travel between 1,500 and 3,000 miles to reach the consumer and usually requires additional packaging and refrigeration.

Many small-scale, local farms attempt to amend the environmental damage done via industrial farming by focusing on sustainable practices, such as minimized pesticide use, no-till agriculture and composting, minimized transport to consumers, and minimal to no packaging for their farm products.

Source: Food Safety, Health and Nutrition

The Newark, Delaware restaurant devoted to fresh, local flavor is on a mission to find new local farms that can supply the kitchen with produce, spices and local meats in 2015, and Home Grown Café owners Eric and Sasha Aber hope that their regular customers can supply leads on where to look.

Farmer’s markets have boomed throughout Delaware in recent years, more than doubling in annual sales since 2011, according to the state Department of Agriculture. Home Grown Café has a long tradition of working with local suppliers, buying from dozens of local farms since the restaurant opened 14 years ago, and now that so many people buy directly from local farms for their home cooking, Eric and Sasha hope to tap into that local knowledge.

“We want to know, who has the best tomatoes? Who has the best squash?” Eric said. “We’re hoping to get that kind of input from our customers, so we can reach out directly to their favorite farms and see if we can bring those ingredients into our kitchen.”

Home Grown Café fans who would like to recommend a farm – or farmers who would like to apply themselves – can reach out directly to Executive Chef Seth Harvey at seththechef@homegrowncafe. com.

As the search begins, Home Grown Café debuts their latest menu on Feb. 2, 2015 with a focus on modern comforts and global flavors, developed by Chef Harvey and General Manager John Holmes in conjunction with Eric and Sasha.

Dishes include: • Strawberry Goat Salad, with crispy fried phyllo-wrapped goat cheese, fresh strawberries, organic lettuce, pickled shallots, slivered almonds, creamy white balsamic vinaigrette • Vietnamese Shrimp Dumplings, hand-folded shrimp dumplings with napa cabbage slaw, crispy noodles, Dak Lak sauce • Asian Lettuce Wraps, offering a choice of shrimp or seitan sauté with oyster mushrooms and zucchini; bibb lettuce wraps, mung bean sprouts, cilantro, and pickled Asian vegetables • Jalapeño Popper Empanadas, with roasted jalapeno, cream cheese, cheddar jack, marinara sauce • Wake N Bacon Mac N Cheese, featuring HGC’s cheese sauce, fried egg, roasted tomatoes, bacon strips, toasted hemp seed crumble

www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

Th

e Art of Eati

HEART HEALTHY

ng

O

D

FO

Wild Salmon: Omega-3 fats in fatty fish like salmon can help reduce the risk of suddendeath heart attacks. And wild-caught salmon has less PCB contaminants than farmed salmon.

Leafy Greens: Kale, collards, spinach, turnip greens, mustard greens, and Swiss chard are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, folate, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, lutein, and fiber.

Watermelon: A 2 cup serving has one-third of a day’s vitamins A and C. Provides potassium, and lycopene.

S

Sweet Potatoes: Loaded with carotenoids, vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

Garbanzo Beans: Rich in protein, fiber, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc.

Butternut Squash: Lots of vitamins A&C and fiber.

Broccoli: Vitamin C, carotenoids, vitamin K and folic acid.

Mango: One cup of mango supplies 100% of a day’s vitamin C. www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

15

Dark Chocolate

It Does A Body Good.

Eating for beauty benefits doesn’t mean a lifetime sentence of salad (although leafy greens do wonders for your body and your skin).

Instead of feeling guilty after getting “wasted on chocolate”, you get excited, (as long as you choose the right kind of chocolate) because you’ll be reaping some beauty benefits and health rewards for treating yourself!

Some chocolate can deliver significant beauty benefits.

However, the only chocolate that can supply these benefits is dark chocolate having at least 70% cocoa content. Unfortunately, most treats found in the candy aisle and conveniently located upon check-out at grocery stores and pharmacies are the wrong kind of chocolate. Dark chocolate, the good stuff, is lower in sugar and high in cocoa. It’s super-rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that nourish our bodies. For example, cocoa contains naturally occurring plant substance called; flavonoids which can contribute to a healthy heart and help reduce the risk of stroke. Dark chocolate also relaxes blood vessels, which in turn can reduce blood pressure and blood cholesterol levels. Several studies even suggest that it may also be a “feel-good” treat that increases production of mood-enhancing neurotransmitters and improved blood flow to the brain.

16

www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015



Reasons To Splurge:



Helps repairs dry skin. Dark chocolate contains iron, calcium, and vitamins A, B1, C, D and E can help keep skin moist and well nourished. Swap out that extra cup of coffee or green tea for a cocoa-rich drink that will deeply moisturize skin and leave behind a healthy glow.



Shields against harmful UV rays. Flavanols found in dark chocolate have been clinically shown to help skin protect itself from sunburn, redness and other signs of UV damage. When applied directly to the skin, it also has the ability to repair and hydrate body parts that have been exposed to the sun, but I don’t suggest slacking on sunscreen.



Erases fine lines and wrinkles. Things seem a bit calmer right after we nibble on a piece of dark chocolate, and we all know how stress impacts our skin. Cocoa helps reduce stress hormones, which means less collagen breakdown in the skin and fewer wrinkles. In addition, the flavanols even improve skin hydration and thickness, both necessary factors for younger looking skin. Dark chocolate also makes a great detoxifier in combination with caffeine, an ingredient that can help reduce the appearance of cellulite, too!

 Adds shine to lifeless locks. Infused with the goodness of several hair benefiting ingredients, dark chocolate can improve the overall health of your tresses, making them super-glossy and voluminous. Additionally, incredible anti-inflammatory properties help to minimize the odds of getting scalp infections.

A yummy at-home hair mask can be made out of unsweetened dark chocolate; honey and yogurt, then mix and apply. You can then cover your hair with plastic wrap and let it work its magic for about an hour. Wash with cold water, rinse and voila!...super shiny strands! 

Promotes hair growth. Copper, zinc and iron are minerals that promote the cell renewal growth process and dark chocolate is full of them. Dark chocolate helps promote blood circulation in the scalp which leads to increased growth of healthier, more lustrous locks and very effective in reducing hair loss.

in a lot more than just flavonoids, you’ll be getting the fat, sugar, and calories, too. So, the next time you find yourself reaching for that rich, decadent dark chocolate, go ahead! Enjoy it…you deserve it!

Looking for a real treat and for combating dull, lack-luster skin, immerse yourself in a cherry chocolate facial treatment from A Natural Difference Spa in Wilmington. It’s full of potent antioxidants that will protect your skin from damaging free radicals and increasing blood flow. All while gently sloughing away dead skin cells and resulting in a smooth, supple complexion, allowing newly exposed, fresh skin to breathe freely.

Flavonoids help protect plants from environmental toxins and help repair damage. They can be found in a variety of foods, such as fruits and vegetables. When we eat foods rich in flavonoids, it appears that we also benefit from this “antioxidant” power.

Antioxidants are believed to help the body’s cells resist damage caused by free radicals that are formed by normal bodily processes, such as breathing, and from environmental contaminants, like cigarette smoke. If your body does not have enough antioxidants to combat the amount of oxidation that occurs, it can become damaged by free radicals. For example, an increase in oxidation can cause low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as “bad” cholesterol, to form plaque on the artery walls.

Flavanols are the main type of flavonoid found in cocoa and chocolate. In addition to having antioxidant qualities, research shows that flavanols have other potential influences on vascular health, such as lowering blood pressure, improving blood flow to the brain and heart, and making blood platelets less sticky and able to clot.

These plant chemicals aren’t only found in chocolate. In fact, a wide variety of foods and beverages are rich in flavonols. These include cranberries, apples, peanuts, onions, tea and red wine.

Soruce: Cleveland Clinic

While, dark chocolate clearly has concrete beauty, and health, benefits, you have to keep portion control in mind. Research indicates that two to three ounces of 70 plus percent dark chocolate a week is all you need to reap the health benefits.

Satisfy your daily craving, without blowing your diet, with a one-ounce serving in the afternoon or for a mini dessert after dinner. Remembering, anything more and you’ll be indulging www.livingwellmagazine.net

Erica has in the spa and wellness industries for over 7 years, she decided her true passion was skincare and developed a strong desire to become a chemical peel expert. Erica is a Master Esthetician with A Natural Difference Spa in Wilmington, DE where she also completed an internship. Helping others to achieve results and the skin they’ve always wanted gives her the greatest gratification!

February 2015

17

The Optimist vs. Reality

By Karen Jessee

A few years ago, a friend sent his manuscript of historical fiction to a publisher. Imagine the joy and sound of popping champagne corks when his manuscript was accepted on his first try. No pile of refusal letters, nothing to dash hopes or egos; everything that touted that his last eight years had not been for naught.

What also came with the acceptance letter was a stack of contracts to sign that went beyond the details of publishing the book. There were also the financial arrangements if the book became a movie, a play, a game; if the characters in the book became action figures.

As several of his friends and I were fictional characters in that book, you can imagine the giggles as we saw ourselves as action figures and determined who would play “us” in the movie. We narrowed it down to Angelina Jolie, Judi Dench and Brad Pit. Colin Farrel and Julia Roberts might have made appearances as well.

Here’s the reality: when the book was published, it was a struggle to generate sales beyond friends and family. The publisher claimed it was doing its best to promote the book; we weren’t so sure. It arranged very few book signings in stores, so we went into gear to make the most of those opportunities. We dressed in Victorian attire to attract attention. We set up tables with lovely bits of lace, and flowers and flags. We expected to see dozens of copies in the windows and promotional backdrops depicting the cover. We saw nothing. We expected to sell hundreds of books each time. We didn’t. kI remember one ninety-degree day in August…hooped, corseted and draped in taffeta… standing outside a bookstore in a strip mall to lure potential costumers to the drama and excitement inside. Books sold, the bookstore went under, and the author had more birthdays before he saw any of that money. I, however, lost three pounds.

18

As most of the book took place in the south and extensive research had been done for years in South Carolina, we traveled to Charleston. Once again, dressed in period attire, we set up shop outside a tiny coffee bistro for the simple reason that none of us could actually fit inside. I moved to a major intersection two blocks away, announcing to the tourists that I was standing there as a character from a book and pointing down the street to the coffee, the books, and the other two Victorians.

If you go to Disneyland, you expect Mickey; if you go to Charleston, you expect Scarlet. I was that woman. I had my picture taken with the tourists a hundred times that day. Books sold.

Over time, the book did well. But it didn’t become a movie or a play or a game, and none of us became action figures, and no one called Angelina or Brad or Judi.

What could this story possibly have to do with organizing, you ask.

It has everything to do with organizing products and what you see being hawked on television. Some products are wonderful and work well. I recommend them. But beware of the “new and perfect…just for you and your home” that isn’t. Beware the hope and promises they bring. Beware of “fussy” organizing products that are actually a lot of work. Beware of products that are really only going to work well on television, in the catalogue, and in the store, but not in your home. Think.

My favorite fussy product is the shoe wheel. I watched as two women brought out a metal wire wheel on a stand with twelve compartments for twelve pairs of shoes. Each compartment was then covered with an overlapping layer of plastic. The wheel

www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

itself was on a stand. I watched as the shoes were shoved into the compartments looking all neat and tidy and then I waited. Now what? Where is that bulky wheel going to go? I almost levitated when the two women picked it up and placed in onto the floor of an empty closet.

Go Within Yoga Private Yoga Instruction

Let’s think our way through this. No one needs to spin their shoes, round things do not fit well into rectangular closets or rooms, no one has a totally empty closet floor, and no one is going to pick up that hefty thing made of metal once it harbors twelve pairs of shoes! I actually saw one of these in a home. No one used it, no one could get the shoes in or out with ease, no one could get it out of the closet, and no one could get into the closet because it took up the entire floor. Clothes were all over the room and nothing was on hangers.

I also question the plastic rings that allow people to hang their clothes vertically. In the commercial, the rings are shown stretched horizontally on the empty clothing bar, the hangers are put into each of the rings, and then one side of the rings is released so that everything is now hanging vertically. From my experience, no one has that empty clothing bar to open the rings, and hangers that are put on these rings are trapped there. Getting clothing in and out is an issue. This explains why people tell me they haven’t worn “those clothes”. It was a fussy organizer. It falls into line behind the fussy belt and tie organizers that men tend to ignore, as well as a myriad of other desk, closet and garage organizers that are either traps or too much work to use.

Certified Yoga Teacher, Debbie Gill

Help to relieve pain from injuries, aging, and weight issues.

Winter Special 3 Classes for $75.

302-229-3446 info@GoWithinYoga.com

GoWithinYoga.com

Look past those colorful and “perfect” displays in the store and in the catalogues; think past the well-dressed ladies telling you what you need to make your life more organized. Analyze your space, your needs and what those products really do.

“A comfortable non-intimidating environment.”

{ {

Bottom line: someone needs to sell a lot of something to make money; it doesn’t have to be your money. If you don’t get caught up in fantasies and a multitude of false hopes, you’ll think your way to success in choosing the right products…and you won’t be waiting to see Angelina Jolie playing your character on the wide screen any time soon.

Integrative Dentistry

Working in harmony with your whole body.

Incorporating all of the necessary factors to diagnose and treat each individual.

We give you a reason to smile!

Karen Jessee is a professional organizer and founder of Simply Organized. She is a member of the National Association of Professional Organizers and the Philadelphia Chapter of Professional Organizers. She encourages people to simplify their lives and works with those who need to downsize and get organized.

Karen helps clients make the decisions and create the systems that are best for them. She also teaches the strategies to help clients gain greater clarity, control, productivity and peace.

Karen is a public speaker on these topics. Visit her website at: www.nowsimplyorganized.com www.livingwellmagazine.net

New Patients Welcome Call Today: 302-239-1641 4543 Stoney Batter Road Wilmington, DE 19808 February 2015

allaboutsmilesde.com 19

20

www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

The American Heart Association's Go Red For Women® movement is nationally sponsored by Macy's with additional support from our cause sponsors. www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

© 2013 American Heart Association, Inc. All rights reserved. Unauthorized use prohibited. *Red Dress™ DHHS, Go Red™ AHA; National Wear Red Day is a registered trademark.

21

cks: a H p nshi o i rt 1 t a Rel le Fixes ssues PaSW I C p Sim ommon ere, PhD, L m for C ianna Pali with

D

I’m sure that most of you have read articles about “life hacks.” If you’re not familiar, a life hack is defined as, “a strategy or technique adopted in order to manage one’s time and daily activities in a more efficient way.” Basically, hacks are creative ways to make your life simpler or ways to use common objects for uncommon uses, which help you to be more organized or efficient. Similarly, there are issues that I hear couples struggle with time and time again, and while we work on the underlying problem in therapy, the issue itself frequently has a quick and easy solution. In a Twopart article, I’m going to share with you some relationship hacks that address common issues couples have.

When one or both partners in a relationship are unhappy, the issues that usually arise in therapy can generally be organized using the 5 Love Languages (created by Dr. Gary Chapman). We all give and receive love differently and it’s vitally important that you know your partner’s love language (i.e. how they receive love from others). Below is a brief description of Chapman’s 5 Love Languages. Once you’ve correctly learned their love language, you’ll be able to choose from the hacks in Part 2 of this article, to help you “speak” their language (this is especially helpful if it’s different from your own love language!).

If you’re unsure of you or your partners love language, go to Dr. Chapman’s website and take a short quiz to find out what it

is (www.5lovelanguages.com). Dr. Chapman’s website assures that the results from the quiz will “give you a thorough analysis of your emotional communication preference. It will single out your primary love language, what it means, and how you can use it to connect with your loved one with intimacy and fulfillment.”

I have found it to be a useful tool for couples in therapy, regardless of their presenting problem.

NOTE: If you both share the same love language, it may throw off the results of the Quiz. For example, if you both crave physical touch, and you are a couple that already has a lot of physical contact, than you may answer the question differently. For example, if it asks “What would be more meaningful _______ or holding hands” you might answer with the first option, because you already hold hands so frequently that the novelty of the other seems like it would be more “meaningful.” It is also of note that many people will answer these questions differently depending on how long they’ve been in their relationship or if there are any special circumstances influencing their relationship (e.g.- having a baby, a recent loss, a new job, etc.). Take a look at the summary of each Love Language on the next page. Ask yourself, “which of these could I absolutely not live without in a relationship?”

The answer to that question is most likely going to be your Love Language.

ook ...

eel your est ffordably!

.

22

www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

Words of Affirmation Actions don’t always speak louder than words. If this is your love language, unsolicited compliments mean the world to you.

Hearing the words, “I love you,” are important—hearing the reasons behind that love sends your spirits skyward. Insults can leave you shattered and are not easily forgotten.

Quality Time In the vernacular of Quality Time, nothing says, “I love you,” like full, undivided attention. Being there for this type of person is critical, but really being there—with the TV off, fork and knife down, and all chores and tasks on standby—makes your significant other feel truly special and loved. Distractions, postponed dates, or the failure to listen can be especially hurtful.

Receiving Gifts Don’t mistake this love language for materialism; the receiver of gifts thrives on the love, thoughtfulness, and effort behind the gift. If you speak this language, the perfect gift or gesture shows that you are known, you are cared for, and you are prized above whatever was sacrificed to bring the gift to you. A missed birthday, anniversary, or a hasty, thoughtless gift would be disastrous—so would the absence of everyday gestures.

accessibility are crucial, while neglect or abuse can be unforgivable and destructive.

In many cases, just knowing what your partner’s Love Language is can be a “relationship hack” all on its own. It can be the tool that helps you to remember how to reconnect with them when you’re feeling things are “off ” or to use as an everyday helpful guide for ways to show them your love.

The Basics of Relationship Hacks One of the most creative tools I’ve seen people use is also the most basic: keep notes. In the past, I would have suggested that the person trying to be more “in-tune” carry a small notebook and jot down things their partner likes, things they mention wanting to buy, their favorite food, favorite music, etc. Now that most people are using smart phones, this has become even easier! Most phones come with a “Memo” app already on the phone. Using the Memo app, you can keep track of all of the things your partner loves, wants, desires…their favorite activities, restaurants, sports.

Keeping track of all of this information is an easy way to buy them thoughtful gifts, show them that you’re listening to them, and plan special dates that will be meaningful to them.

Acts of Service Can vacuuming the floors really be an expression of love?

Absolutely! Anything you do to ease the burden of responsibilities weighing on an “Acts of Service” person will speak volumes. The words he or she most want to hear: “Let me do that for you.”

Laziness, broken commitments, and making more work for them tell speakers of this language their feelings don’t matter.

Physical Touch This language isn’t all about the bedroom. A person whose primary language is Physical Touch is, not surprisingly, very touchy. Hugs, pats on the back, holding hands, and thoughtful touches on the arm, shoulder, or face—they can all be ways to show excitement, concern, care, and love. Physical presence and

Sexual Health and Healing with Dianna Palimere, PhD, LCSW Dr. Dianna Palimere is a Psychosexual Therapist and Licensed Clinical Social Worker. She has been in the field of mental health for the past 14 years, dedicating the past seven years to specializing in clinical sexuality. She holds a Bachelors degree in Psychology, a Masters degree in Social Work, a Masters degree in Human Sexuality Education, and a PhD in Clinical Human Sexuality. Utilizing a holistic approach to therapy, she incorporates a variety of clinical interventions in her work with individuals, couples, and families.

She is devoted to helping people achieve sexual health and healing through her work as a psychotherapist in her private practice in Pike Creek, DE; as well as in her work with local nonprofit organizations. To learn more about her or to schedule an appointment, visit her website: www.SexTherapyInDelaware.com or email her directly at: dr.palimere@sextherapyindelaware.com Join us on Facebook, keywords: Sex Therapy in Delaware.

+ FREE $20 *

www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

23

The Sweetest Ever Love Gift

By Karen Verna Carlson, N.D., Ph.D. (Hon.)

“Listen” 1. To apply oneself to hearing something.

2. To pay attention; give heed.”

Source: American Heritage Dictionary of the English Language

Greeting cards, chocolates, flowers, concert tickets and other gifts expressing our love for people dear to us brighten moments for both givers and receivers during this final month of winter. I invite you to extend those loving gestures beyond material gifts to do something truly profound—listen. Just listen and be fully present with another person’s talk.

Advice I refrain from giving advice. Advice can be garnered from thousands of websites, books and periodicals. I give the speaker advice only if directly, specifically requested. Jumping in to identify and/or solve the speaker’s “problem” short circuits his or her personal discovery process, which given some time and space will unfold towards the best solution suiting that individual’s unique needs and proclivities. I just totally hear them while they find their way.

Interference

with mixed up perceptions and misplaced emotions. Their natural processes won’t be unproductively diverted to explain or convince or justify so that process momentum will flow towards their ultimate understanding of what may be behind those irrational words and feelings. I accept as a simple fact that they feel what they feel, and I serve as an attentive, compassionate witness. They sooner or later achieve clarity when the answers become obvious.

Irrational feelings make sense when we understand what’s behind them.

Simplicity If listening makes you too uncomfortable, ease your discomfort when they are finished talking, after a minute’s pause, by mirroring what you’ve observed and expressing some simple support. “I see you are really angry [sad/ scared/ discouraged/ disappointed/ wounded]. I’m so sorry for your pain. If there’s anything I can do to be helpful, please let me know.”

Dignity I give people the dignity to make their own mistakes and to find their own ways out. With an abundance of social resources available, most folks are surprisingly capable of taking care of themselves. Rarely is rescuing or caretaking called for. That leaves me free to take better care of myself, which makes me an even more loving human being. Just listening and being fully present is the sweetest ever love gift. Give it often.

I refrain from telling people that they shouldn’t feel that way or from offering another feeling that would be better. “You shouldn’t feel sad that you lost your job, you should feel glad that you’re free to find something better.” Such a gesture interferes with their discovery process. Offering a tissue to blot copious tears may seem an expression of compassion, but that act also interferes with their need at the moment to deeply emote. They’ll find a napkin or paper towel or sleeve if they need one. They are not helpless. When I do something for them that they can do and need to do for themselves, I contribute to their perceived fear and weakness. I just listen, fully present with love in my heart.

Distraction I allow them to be irrational. I let them feel what they feel, no matter how irrational it appears. Yes, I let them flounder and falter 24

www.livingwellmagazine.net

Karen Verna Carlson, N.D., Ph.D. (Hon.) is a naturopathic physician and professor credited with “the first major breakthrough in Swedish Massage—research demonstrating energetic interconnections”—since Peter Ling systemized it in the early 19th century.

After 35 years running her own nationally accredited school of holistic healing and massage she has retired to provide a new kind of holistic care for individuals and families. In addition to her specialties of healing massage and bodywork, she provides sensitive, timeand cost-effective services for home or office, family members and staff, that include diverse holistic problem solving for garden, pets, children and elders.

Karen has received international recognition for holistic healing and educational work, an honorary degree, silver medal, and Who’s Who listing. She has appeared on television, radio and has been featured in professional publications, mass media and has monthly featured column in Living Well Magazine To reach Karen: kvc@livingwellmagazine.net Phone (302) 777-3964 February 2015

Fresh food for vegan, vegetarian, Delivery Available!free lifestyles carnivorous & gluten Deliv e Avail ry able!

Join our 2015 Fine Dining Supper Club Deliv e Avail ry able!

Fresh food for vegan, vegetarian, carnivorous & gluten free lifestyles

email supperclub@homegrowncafe.com for details

Join our 2015 Fine Dining Supper Club emailFresh supperclub@homegrowncafe.com for details food for vegan, vegetarian, carnivorous & gluten free lifestyles

Join our 2015 Fine Dining Supper Club

email supperclub@homegrowncafe.com details2nd New Seasonal Menu Starts:forFeb New Seasonal Menu Starts Feb 2nd • Valentines Weekend Feb 13th-15th

Valentines Weekend Feb 13th-15th Use Home Grown Cafe to Cater Your Wedding or Special Event 1 2 6 E A S T M A I N S T. • N E WA R K 3 0 2 . 2 6 6 . 6 9 9 3 | H O M E G R O W N C A F E . CO M

New Seasonal Menu Starts Feb 2nd • Valentines Weekend Feb 13th-15th

Use Home Grown Cafe to Cater Your Wedding or Special Event

New Seasonal1 2Menu 2nd 6 E A S T MStarts A I N S T. Feb • N E WA R K • Valentines Weekend Feb 13th-15th 3 0 2 . 2 6 6 . 6 9 9 3 | H O M E G R O W N C A F E . CO M

Use Home Grown Cafe to Cater Your Wedding or Special Event 126 EAST MAIN ST. • NEWARK Conventional and Alternative Medicine 302.266.6993 | HOMEGROWNCAFE.COM LIVING.WELL LW M

“Ann’s gifted.

Ann Wilkinson P.T.M.S,

When you have given up all hope Ann’s skillfully trained hands can find all the areas of trauma within your body.”

Osteopathic Physical Therapy Transforming Trauma into Wellness www.handsonhealthde.com

302-656-7882

www.livingwellmagazine.net

MAGAZINE™

She has shared her expertise with you for over 8 years. Isn’t it time to introduce your pet to...

Certified Veterinary Doctor Rose DiLeva

Acupuncturist & Chiropractitioner

• Chinese Medicine • Laser Therapy • Pain Management • Holistic Cancer Therapy • Gold Bead Implants • Electro-Acupuncture • Dr. Rose’s Remedies • Reiki Master • Herbal Therapy

February 2015

Animal Wellness Center 286 Wilmington West Chester Pike Chadds Ford, PA 19317

610-558-1616 AltPetdoc.com

State of the art facility, conveniently located in PA, minutes from Wilmington.

Q:

I have a German Shepherd that’s 8 years old. Last winter he had a “hot spot” over his hip. It grew big very quickly. What can I do about this?

A:

Q:

I’m concerned about my dog’s paws getting irritated this winter in the snow and ice, especially with the salt (ice melt) on the ground. What can I do to help this situation?

A:

Exposure to salt and salt-based ice melting products can cause severe interdigital inflammation of the paws. Many ice melt products contain sodium chloride or calcium chloride. Both are capable of causing irritation to the paws. Most dogs will lick and clean their paws after being outside so it is very important to dry off and wipe any snow or ice off the paws and between the toes. These products can cause vomiting and internal burns to the mouth and gastrointestinal tract if ingested. Some salt products can even heat up to over 150 degrees and cause burns to the feet and skin.

One product that I have read a lot about is called Safe Pet. It claims to be safe for pets and is environmentally safe. It is 100% salt free. It can be found in hardware stores, pet supply stores and some veterinary offices. I would be prepared to clean your dog’s feet and paws each and every time they come in from the outside during the winter weather. If you note any irritation, inflammation or burns, contact your veterinarian and have your pet seen. The veterinarian will determine if frostbite has developed and treat appropriately.

“Hot Spots,” as they are commonly called, is a condition of the skin. It has been called acute moist dermatitis, acute pyoderma, pyotraumatic dermatitis and even moist eczema. These lesions occur when a dog picks an area of skin and excessively licks, bites or scratches at it. As this continuous trauma goes on, the area becomes moist and raw and severely inflamed. It becomes a vicious cycle. A dog can cause these to develop in only minutes if they traumatize an area of skin enough. They can become very large. Some situations that may cause your dog to lick at an area are basically anything that can cause an itch sensation. Some triggers could be fleas, mites, food allergies, environmental allergies, skin wounds or insect bites. Very often the skin becomes so inflamed that bacteria gets involved and causes a deep skin infection.

The best thing to do when you identify this kind of skin problem is to take your dog to the veterinarian. Most likely, your veterinarian will assess the situation and shave the area for better visualization and determine the extent of the lesion. After that, the area would be gently scrubbed and cleaned with an antiseptic such as chlorhexadine solution. If it is determined that a skin infection is present, your veterinarian will prescribe an antibiotic. Next, it is advisable to apply a topical ointment of some sort. My favorite product for this is Dr. Rose’s Remedies Skin Treatment. It comes in a salve or a spray. Dr. Rose’s Remedies is anti-bacterial, antifungal, anti-itch, anti-inflammatory, an antiseptic, as well as a moisturizer. It promotes healing and reduces the itch. The ingredients are all natural and nontoxic. There are no artificial preservatives, colorings, steroids or gluten in any of Dr. Rose’s Remedies’ products.

In the case of a hot spot, I usually advise using the spray form of Dr. Rose’s. The area can become very sensitive to touch. Your dog may not want the effected skin to be touched. With the spray form application is quick and easy. I generally advise at least twice a day application to start. Depending upon the severity of the skin infection and inflammation, I may suggest more frequent treatments. I often recommend distracting your pet after you apply the medication topically. By this I mean brush them, feed them, take them for a walk or play with them. In my experience, the longer the salve stays in contact with the effected skin, the quicker you will see results. It is a great product. You can check out their web site at www. drrosesremedies.com.

26

www.livingwellmagazine.net

Dr. Rose DiLeva is a 1987 graduate of the University of Pennsylvania’s school of Veterinary Medicine. She practices alternative and conventional veterinary medicine. Dr. DiLeva is a certified veterinary acupuncturist and a certified veterinary chiropractitioner. She can be reached at her Animal Wellness Center in Chadds Ford, Pa. at 610-558-1616 for appointments and telephone consultations. Her web site is www.altpetdoc.com and www.drrosesremedies.com February 2015

HANDS ON HEALTH by: Ann Wilkinson P.T.M.S,

Q:

My newborn had a reaction to medication with clenching of their arms and legs. It resolved over a weeks time. Physical Therapy did ROM (Range of Motion) once daily for the week of recovery. What can I do to help now that we are no longer under hospital care?

A:

If the symptoms resolved in a week and you were not sent home with a home program, it is likely there is no permanent neurological complications. Your role is like that of the clean up crew--Home therapy given with the Love of the parent is a high potency remedy. Whenever Love is your full focus,you will do no harm, so do not be afraid to work with your baby.

Remembering Fear and Love do not reside in the same place.

You can follow the instructions using the smallest amount of pressure possible. If you try and feel too uneasy, find a therapist proficient in myofascial release for one on one instructions as to the following home therapeutic activities:

Manual Traction using the Limbs - can be done in any position.

Very gently, less than the weight of a dime, apply traction to the arms and legs, one at a time, holding a slow,long 20 seconds.

This is done so gently,baby can sleep through it.

Dural Tube Stretch - Baby is lying on their back and this can be done with one parent or both at the same time. This gentle intention of traction is done with a whispery touch of your finger tips at the base of the head and either with yours or another persons hand, you touch the sacrum and think downward pull sensation. Just think with your mind lengthen the spine. The key to this activity is to maintain the intention, the very subtle tension for a long, gentle stretch without giving up slack during the entire stretch Encouraging a subtle lengthening of the fascia lining the spinal canal for a 20-30 second release is very relaxing and allows a reset of the energetic input of this incident to the nervous system.

Besides these physical activities, it is important to breast feed as an immune system booster and relaxation technique. Drink plenty of fluid as that translates to the amount of hydration the baby gets. Also massage for the muscles, feet and fingers are going to be very helpful for this baby. There are many organic baby product not only for massage cream, food, and many hygiene products as well to drink clean water. Using organics in this stage of recovering from a hospital stay prevents chemical insults or allergies to add any further symptoms in this watchful period.

Ann is an award winning writer,teacher and speaker. Ann is the personal body worker of Her Holiness “Sai Maa”. Ann practices osteopathic physical therapy and has helped thousands of patients. Ann is also an expert on the use of healing foods, homeopathic and herbal consultations, and therapeutic horseback riding. Ann treats her patients in a beautiful country setting which enables her to utilize all of her learned skills as well as some of the healing properties that only Mother Earth can bestow .Ann is available by appointment and can be reached 302-656-7882. The farm is also available for birthday parties, women’s circles, and retreats.

Complementary and Integrative Approaches: Weight Control —What the Science Says Most dietary supplements marketed for rapid weight loss, such as acai and hoodia, are ineffective for long-term weight control, and some have serious safety concerns. Researchers have investigated the weight loss potential of a variety of dietary supplements.

Acai -Acai berry products have become popular in the United States, where they have been marketed as folk or traditional remedies for weight-loss and anti-aging purposes, but there is no definitive scientific evidence to support these claims.

Green Tea-There are not enough reliable data to determine whether green tea can aid in weight loss.

Hoodia-There is no reliable scientific evidence to support hoodia’s use for any condition. No clinical studies have been published to date.

Mind and Body Approaches-There is considerable interest and growing scientific evidence that meditation and yoga may be useful complementary interventions in supporting behavior change and healthier lifestyles, including weight-loss and weight management programs.

Bitter Orange - Overall, only a few small studies of bitter orange have been published, and the evidence is insufficient to support Mindfulness Meditation-To date there are only a few studies the use of bitter orange (Citrus aurantium) for any health purpose. on the effects of mindfulness as a component of weight-loss programs, but the evidence is intriguing and research is ongoing.

Ephedra -There is little evidence of ephedra’s effectiveness, except for short-term weight loss. However, in 2004, the FDA Yoga-Overall, therapeutic yoga programs can be frequently banned the U.S. sale of dietary supplements containing ephedra effective in promoting weight loss and are a potentially successful after finding that these supplements had an unreasonable risk of intervention for weight maintenance and prevention of obesity. injury or illness—particularly cardiovascular complications— For more infomation: National Center for Complementary and Integrative and risk of death.

Health nccih.nih.gov www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

27

LWM TRENDS

iHurt

By Danny Singles, PT, DPT, MA

Twitter. Pinterest. Instagram. Facebook. Trivia Crack. Fantasy football. Email. Text messaging. Many other things. We use our phones for almost everything but phone calls. All of these things involve staring at the screen, usually with some scrolling or tapping thrown in for good measure.

In our sports clinic, my friend and fellow PT, Mark, states it best.

He sees a patient sitting in our waiting chairs, hunched over and cramped up like a wadded up napkin after dinner (hopefully without the meatball stains). The question that follows is as perfect as the answer he gives to his own question. He asks them: “Do you have back pain (or neck or shoulder pain)? No, not yet? Ok, you will.”

Unfortunately, a second list complements the list from the first paragraph. Most of the terms on this list are terms we have made up, but you’ll get the idea: Texter’s Thumb, Cell Phone Neck, Tablet Tendonitis, iPhone and iPad wrist, etc. Unfortunately, we see these more and more frequently in our patients. These great gadgets we use are designed to be so intuitive, fun, and creative (my wife hates it when I quote the iPad commercials) that they are tough to put down. This leads to hours of uninterrupted use for anything imaginable. During this time, we are locked in positions that might not be the best for us. TV watching, reading, typing, Xbox, etc. can also adversely affect our musculoskeletal system and posture, but for the purposes of this article, we’ll just stick to tablets and phones.

— continued on next page

28

www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

— continued from previous page

The classic tablet or smart phone posture we see is typically as follows (or similar): seated and slumped into a chair, leaning slouched to one side, one elbow resting on the arm rest, one elbow and hand supporting the head, head leaned down or forward and tilted or turned to one side. Time passes and passes, maybe a momentary stirring, but then right back to the same position or something similar. I can almost hear my boss say “That’s classic.” From time to time, all of us are guilty of this.

Some of us are doing this more than just from time to time, however.

One of the first things I talk with my neck, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, back, hip, knee, ankle, and feet patients (i.e. almost everyone) about is their sitting and standing posture. Patients often get hung up on their exercise and daily living activities while ignoring or overlooking what they spend the majority of their time doing (sitting, standing, sleeping). It’s what we don’t know that does us in with our posture. These little things are like drops of water in a bucket. We do them every day without realizing it and the drops keep falling until one day the bucket overflows. Posture related pain can be like that. Many times it can be of insidious onset. Nothing traumatic or out of the ordinary happens to precipitate it. But that is precisely the issue.

The cause is ordinary and we often ignore it. It’s buried in how we read, how we hold our phones, how we use our laptop, how we drive to work, how we vacuum or do other chores, how we sit, stand, and sleep. For many of my patients, figuring out what and how normal activities might be contributing to their pain is often the most challenging part because it is difficult to consider the very activities that could be causing it.

For our patients in the chairs, their tablet or phone posture contributes to many things. Starting from the top, let’s work our way down. The neck is held bent and out of neutral spine position. This puts the cervical vertebrae, ligaments, and soft tissues under increased stress, shear, and tension. Over time, these tissues adapt to the stress they are put under. Even though it might be for only 5-10 minutes here or there, being in this posture multiple times per day every day eventually causes one side of your neck tissues to become excessively tight and the other to turn into the equivalent of overstretched salt water taffy.

Both of those can contribute to weakness, pain, and dysfunction.

The low back is also especially susceptible to postural related issues. It turns out that sitting slumped and molded into your chair might not be the best thing for your back. While certainly comfortable, sitting without the use of any core or glute musculature to support the spine allows the lumbar vertebrae, ligaments, and soft tissues to shift, weaken, stretch, etc. What about all those great core and glute muscles we spend so much time in the gym working on with our planks, crunches, and squats? Say goodbye – these muscles shut down and become inhibited due to prolonged or repetitive sitting.

For the sake of brevity, we are going to gloss through some other body parts. Areas of the body such as the elbows, wrists, fingers, hips, knees, feet, and ankles can also be affected by this classic iPosture. Tightness and pressure in the hips from sitting crunched up can lead to increased pull on the low back or to potential deterioration in the hip joints. Repetitive movements of poorly positioned joints in the hands, wrists, and elbows can lead to painful overuse conditions such as tendonitis, tennis elbow, carpal tunnel syndrome, and other inflammatory conditions. The knees, ankles, and feet can also be affected by such postures.

Depending on how you sit when you are melting into that love seat or man-cave chair, curled up clutching your Kindle, the latest episode of This American Life podcast, watching the Seattle Seahawks make a miraculous comeback, or taking some time to play 2048, all of these joints could be at risk. Start taking a look around you. See if you can notice what others are doing with their necks, backs, arms, and legs when they text, email, play Bejeweled, or check Instagram. Odds are good that you’re like them. Likely, you are not the outlier with perfect and impeccable posture. What’s the remedy? Stand up and shake out every 30-45 minutes, sit on an exercise ball, stand while playing Candy Crush, and generally fidget while you sit. Get moving and bail out that metaphorical bucket of water before it overflows.

The shoulders can be similarly affected by too much tablet time.

They tend to roll or hunch forward, shortening up the big thick muscles on the top and back of the shoulders. This tightness leads to abnormal movement patterns in the neck and shoulders, which can cause pain and dysfunction. This can also open the door to a potential increased risk of traumatic injury during activity due to the increased stress present on the joint from its poor movement patterns. www.livingwellmagazine.net

Danny Singles, PT, DPT, MA Danny is a sports physical therapist who specializes in manual therapy. His clinical interests include injury prevention, working with sports and orthopedic injuries, pre and post surgical rehab, and working with the pediatric patient population. He attended the University of Delaware for his Doctorate in Physical Therapy.

Currently, he works full time as an outpatient sports therapist and provides educational outreach through lectures at local schools and fitness centers. He can be reached at Elite PT in Hockessin, DE at: (302-234-1030) or emailed directly at: dsingles@elitept.com. He can also be followed on Twitter (@MoveEqualsLife) for current updates about health and wellness.

February 2015

29

WITH SEAN

Hannibal

SHOWS WORTH WATCHING

When it was first announced that Hannibal was coming to TV, I was very skeptical, to me no one can fill the shoes of Anthony Hopkins in his iconic role in as Hannibal Lector in Silence of the Lambs. To my surprise though, Hannibal, has become one of my favorite shows on television. The TV show follows Hannibal in his career as a psychiatrist, treating people and manipulating them the same way a psychopath / killer would. This show is very dark and not for the faint of heart or stomach. Hannibal is also an accomplished cook and makes meals that look absolutely delicious, until you remember what the main ingredient is, a neatly packed human thigh, or liver stored in the freezer following his last kill. Hannibal is full of twists and turns and the acting is top notch, this show is well worth your time, and will fill your appetite for good TV (all puns intended). The best way to catch up on Hannibal is on Amazon.

The Walking Dead If you haven't heard about The Walking Dead, most likely you are living under a rock. The Walking Dead has become a worldwide phenomenon with millions of viewers and a continued gain in audience numbers daily. The Walking Dead follows a group of people who have been surviving the collapse of social order after a virus runs rampant through the United States, killing most of the population, and turning them into mindless flesh eating monsters. Throughout the story, we find that the dead aren't the only threat to the beloved survivors, as more often it is the other people pose a greater threat. The morality of the main characters is focused upon in each episode as we watch the moral compass of a many of the characters deteriorating throughout each season, turning them into very different people than they once were, in order to survive. Catch up on The Walking Dead on Netflix, but be warned, once your start watching it’s really hard to stop. I just don't understand why no one on the show knows what a zombie is.

Game of Thrones Game of Thrones is the reason to get HBO if you don't have it.

This beautifully crafted show focuses on the balance of power between different families in a medieval setting. Game of Thrones has it all; dragons, romance, and epic fight scenes and some of the best acting on television. The game is to control 30

The Seven Kingdoms of Westeros and there are no rules, in fact, it seems that the more devious, corrupt, and ruthless the character the better their chance of gaining control. The cinematography is the best on television, having been filmed all over the world, bringing the various regions of Westeros to life. There is no other show on television like it, so it’s not surprising that it’s on HBO. In my opinion, HBO produces some of the best shows on television.

Arrow and The Flash Yea, I know I said it was only going to be the top 5 shows to watch this season, but I had to cheat. Both of these shows take place in the DC comic universe and have already had a few crossover episodes. The two big super heroes are the Green Arrow and the Flash, characters that are both part of the Justice League with Batman and Superman, but not quite as popular… yet. Both of these shows start with an origin story, as almost any good superhero story should. Arrow is now on its third season and has been getting better and better with each season. For me, this show at first glance was going to be filed on the “I’ll watch it when I can list”, and was quickly upgraded to, “must watch every week”. Flash is in its first season television now and so far it has been great, and if it is anything like its sibling Arrow then great things are in store for the future. It’s awesome to be able to watch super heroes in action every week. What’s not to like?

Parks and Recreation For the past seven years Parks and Recreation, has been one of the best comedy series on television, which makes me pretty unhappy knowing that this is the final season. Parks and Recreation, follows the story of Leslie Knope, a perky, over caffeinated member of a city’s parks department. Leslie is passionate about everything she is involved with and the interactions with the hilarious cast of people she works with.

The show, which is filmed in a mockumentary style, offers a funny and touching look into the lives of the people that do this job, and hilarity often ensues. It will be hard to fill the void left

by Parks and Recreation in my heart, the characters have come to mean a lot to me over the years, and I’m sure there are many others besides myself who will be missing this endearing bunch too. It’s time to start binge watching it again, most seasons are available on Netflix, on snowy days it’s not hard to figure out what I’ll be doing.

www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

10

Times During Your Busy Day— You Can Take The Time To Exercise It’s a fact that we are all extremely busy and could always use some extra hours in a day. It doesn’t matter if you are a corporate CEO, a stay at home mom or a school teacher, every hour is accounted for...or is it?

The most common excuse I hear in the fitness industry is “I don’t have time to exercise!” But, if you feel commited to changing your lifstyle through exercise and better nutrition there are ways to incorporate exercise into your day that can be very beneficial.

Here are 10 simple ways to jump start your journey to a healthier and happier you: 1. Get up 15 to 30 minutes early and exercise before you start your day.

2. Exercise before you go to bed.

3. Use the gym close to your office and do your workout on your lunch hour.

4. Hit the gym before you go home.

5. Take your 15-minute break during the day to walk around the block or down the street to the mailbox.

6. Use your family time to walk around the block a few times while discussing the day.

7. Walk your kids to and from school instead of driving them.

8. Find a group of people to walk with each day.

9. Exercise right after dinner with your spouse.

10. Find an exercise routine you can do while watching television with your family It doesn’t take more than 15 to 30 minutes a day to make a difference and when you use one or more of these suggestions, you’ll find a way to fit exercise into your busy day, everyday.

Alisa Rose is Founder and President of Art Fitness. Art Fitness is commitment to providing a personalized atmosphere that eliminates intimidation and promotes success. Art Fitness is dedicated to improving the movement of one’s body and restoring quality of life through proper exercise, correct form and good nutrition. The Art Fitness team can be reached at: 302.477.0123, or info@ArtFitnessTraining.com Stay up to date with all things fitness: Facebook.com/ArtFitnessLLC Follow Art Fitness on Twitter: @ BdyIsaWrKoF_ART www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

Do You Have Sciatica of an Organ?

Dr. Scott E. Rosenthal

Sciatica! You know the pain that shoots down the leg from a “pinched” nerve in the back? Or a feeling of numbness, weakness, burning, or pins and needles? If you haven’t experienced it, chances are you may one day, as it is estimated to affect up to 43 percent of us at some time.1 Sciatica results from damage to the nerves that exit your lower back. It can be painfully debilitating and crush the ability of your leg or foot to function normally. I have met many sufferers as they first walked (or crawled) into my office. The degree of nerve interference and loss of function must be taken very seriously. But what if the damaged part of the nerve does not shoot pain down your leg? What if it controls the function of your heart, liver, lungs or other vital organ?

If you’ve had sciatica, did anyone tell you that the affected nerves (known as the spinal nerves) are referred to as “mixed” nerves?

They have many nerve fibers that control more than those you feel. Vital messages are sent back and forth from your brain to the muscles, organs, glands and blood vessels through the same spinal nerves that can cause sciatica when damaged.

You may be familiar with the back and/or leg pain following lifting or sleeping in the wrong position, but when is the last time you woke up and proclaimed “I must have slept wrong. My liver is killing me!” Most of your body parts do NOT produce any warning symptoms when sick. Once the alarm finally sounds, the condition may have existed for weeks, months or years.

Understanding this physiological reality can be life-saving.

Chiropractic is well-known for helping alleviate the nerve pressure that causes sciatica and preventing the need for surgery.2 However, the role chiropractic plays in helping people overcome problems with organs, glands and blood vessels is relatively unknown. Your medical physician may be unaware as well. This could be a lingering result of the American Medical Association’s illegal policy branding chiropractic as “unscientific” that ended with a landmark court case in 1987.3 The AMA was found guilty of violating anti-trust laws and was ordered to stop its slanderous policy designed to eliminate chiropractic. Today, the AMA recognizes that chiropractic is an option for at least back pain. I

Call

Art Fitness

today and let us set up a personalized program just for you.

ServiceS:

fear a few of its members still hold on to unwarranted prejudices.

Chiropractic has asserted from it very beginnings that nerve root compression from spinal misalignment (called Vertebral Subluxation) can result in damaging effects to the spinal nerves and the body parts that they control. Our current understanding supports this early theory. Additionally, other mechanisms of nerve damage have been uncovered (e.g. chemical irritation from joint inflammation). The spinal nerve is like a telephone line conduit carrying thousands of fibers leading to all parts of the body. Unfortunately, as it passes through the small opening created by two of your spinal bones connecting together, it lacks the protective sheath seen in nerves outside (known as the epineurium and perineurium). Like a bare wire, the spinal nerve fibers are sensitive to interference.

Research has found that a pressure of only 10 mm of mercury (Hg) produced a 60 percent blockage of spinal nerve communication in just 15 minutes.4 Another study found that 5-10 mm Hg pressure restricted the blood flow to the spinal nerve and resulted in nerve compression from venous swelling. Further nerve function was compromised by impaired nutrient flow feeding the nerve.5 To put this in perspective, the pressure on your palm when holding five one dollar bills is about 10 mm Hg. This amount is miniscule when considering that the pressure squeezing on your arm from an inflated blood pressure cuff is around 160 mm Hg. Further study confirms that the compressive forces on your spinal nerve roots can exist silently without causing any pain!6 Chiropractors help people not by directly treating an organ, blood vessel or gland, but by adjusting the spine gently back into place. As with sciatica, once realigned, the pressure on the spinal nerve root is alleviated and your nervous system regains the ability to properly control the affected body part. Witnessing the improvements in our patient’s health beyond pain relief is common. Hundreds of case reports match what we experience in our office each day. Below are a few studies that demonstrate how rebalancing the spine with chiropractic care can have positive effects on the rest of your body:

The beneFiTS:

• increaSed energy • booST brain Power • booST memory • decreaSe STreSS Our professional support team understands • liFTS dePreSSion your daily struggles and is committed to • combaTS healTh your individual needs and success. condiTionS & diSeaSeS ArtFitnessTraining.com • PoSiTive reSulTS 2807 Concord Pike (SPorTS SPeciFic) • SucceSS! 302.477.0123

• PerSonal Training • Semi-PrivaTe Training • Senior FiTneSS • SPecial PoPulaTion • FiTneSS Program • PoST rehabiliTaTion • Small grouP claSSeS • STrengTh+condiTioning

Wilmington, DE 19803

32

www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

EAR INFECTIONS One study (published in the Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics) of 332 children 27 days to five-years-old found that 82 to 89 percent of the children no longer had ear infections following chiropractic care.7 HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE Placebo-controlled research published in the Journal of Human Hypertension demonstrates the effectiveness of chiropractic care with people suffering from high blood pressure. Compared to the patients receiving fake adjustments, those who had a real chiropractic adjustment saw an average 14 mm Hg greater drop in systolic blood pressure (the top number in a blood pressure count), and an average 8 mm Hg greater drop in diastolic blood pressure (the bottom blood pressure number). Both groups were not taking any blood pressure medication during the eight week study. 8 Study leader George Bakris, M.D., director of the University of Chicago Hypertension Center, stated in an interview with WebMD, “This [chiropractic] procedure has the effect of not one, but two blood-pressure medications given in combination.” He further noted, “…it seems to be adverse-event free. We saw no side effects and no problems.”9 IMMUNE RESPONSE The results of an extensive review of the scientific literature regarding spinal adjustments (the primary procedure used by chiropractors) and the immune response was reported by Jack Neil of the Anglo-European College of Chiropractic at the 9th Chiropractic, Osteopathy, and Physiotherapy Conference in the United Kingdom. Neil’s review looked at all research up to 2012 and confirmed that spinal adjustments may lead to the reduction of chemicals associated with inflammation while increasing the number of antibodies that are part of the immune response. Spinal adjustments may also increase the number of leukocytes (white blood cells involved in defending the body against infectious disease and foreign matter) as well as positively affecting other immune system cells.10 STRESS HORMONES In a 2011 Japanese study, chiropractic spinal adjustments were found to have a direct effect on the autonomic nervous system (the part of your nervous that controls organs, blood vessels and glands).

chiropractic treatment group (consisting of 17 patients) and a control group (consisting of 34 patients). The authors concluded, “According to the results of this study the possibility may be considered that chronic nerve compression secondary to vertebral subluxation in the thoracic and lumbar regions had a significant effect on the immune function of these allergy and Crohn’s disease patients. It is further postulated that this nerve compression leads to a chronic functional disorder having a significant effect on digestion, absorption of nutrients and liquids, conveyance of food as well as various other functions of the digestive tract extending to excretion.” 12 Although damaged nerve flow to an organ, gland or vessel is not termed “sciatica”, its presence can wreak havoc of greater proportions without producing warning signs. This not only makes a chiropractic check-up useful before a health crisis arises, but worth consideration when facing a challenge. There is nothing more exciting for a doctor of chiropractic and his/her patient than to observe restored health as the nerve is freed and function restored! The next time you have a problem that you may have not previously associated with your spinal nerves, ask: “Could this be sciatica of an organ?”

1. Spine. 2008 Oct 15;33(22):2464-72 2. Spine. 2013 May 15;38(11):953-64 3. http://biotech.law.lsu.edu/cases/antitrust/wilk_v_AMA.htm 4. Sharpless SK: “Susceptibility of spinal roots to compression block.” The Research 5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

10.

11.

12.

Twelve men with neck pain were given PET scans (functional imaging that produces a 3-D view of the functional processes of the body) to evaluate the activities within the brain after chiropractic spinal adjustments. The areas of the brain that involve stress reactions and pain processing were shown to be altered.

Additionally, salivary lab testing revealed that the subjects had significantly lower levels of the stress hormone, cortisol. 11 DIGESTIVE SYSTEM Crohn’s disease patients were divided into two groups, a www.livingwellmagazine.net

Status of Spinal Manipulative Therapy. NINCDS monograph 15, DHEW publication (NIH) 76-998:155, 1975 Rydevik BL: “The effects of compression on the physiology of nerve roots.” JMPT 15(1):62, 1992 Hause M: “Pain and the nerve root.” Spine 18(14):2053, 1993 The role of the chiropractic adjustment in the care and treatment of 332 children with otitis media. Fallon, JM. Journal of Clinical Chiropractic Pediatrics Vol 2, No. 2 1997 p.167-183 Bakris G, Dickholtz M, Meyer PM, et al: “Atlas vertebra realignment and achievement of arterial pressure goal in hypertensive patients: a pilot study.”

Journal of Human Hypertension 2007:1-6 http://www.webmd.com/hypertension-high-blood-pressure/news/20070316/ chiropractic-cuts-blood-pressure Manipulative therapy and immune response: A literature review of the chiropractic and osteopathic evidence. Clinical Chiropractic 2012; 15(3): 186 Cerebral Metabolic Changes in Men After Chiropractic Spinal Manipulation for Neck Pain. Alternative Therapies. 2011, November/December; 17 (6): 12-17 Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research 2003 (Mar); 4 (4)

Dr. Scott E. Rosenthal is a second-generation Doctor of Chiropractic and a past president of the Delaware Chiropractic Society. His undergraduate degree is in Nutrition and he is a Certified Yoga Teacher. In his Wilmington practice, he offers the cutting-edge Koren Specific Technique (KST) as well as other contemporary and traditional approaches. KST comfortably integrates gentle adjustments of the spine, cranial bones, TMJ, arms and legs (including the wrists and feet). Dr. Rosenthal specializes in pain relief, auto or work injury recovery and natural ways to boost whole body wellness. To contact Dr. Rosenthal please visit rosenthalchiropractic.com or 302-999-0633.

February 2015

33

recipes

Winter Spinach Salad 4 cups torn spinach 2 large Bosc pears, thinly sliced 1/2 cup dried cranberries 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar 1/4 cup water 2 tablespoon olive oil 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 2 cloves garlic, minced salt and pepper to taste crumbled goat cheese (optional)

Pineapple Chicken

The Marinade

1 teaspoon reduced-sodium soy sauce

In a bowl, mix together the soy sauce, vinegar and ginger. Pour the marinade into a sealable bag and add chicken. Seal and refrigerate

1 teaspoon rice vinegar 2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast cut into 1 inch cubes

Sauce: In a separate bowl, mix together the ingredients for the sauce.

Follow instruction on package

Cooking: Stir-fry

Sauce:

In a large wok, Split oil- heat the peanut oil over medium-high heat. Add carrots and peppers and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes. Add the bok choy and pineapple and stir-fry 1 minute. Add onions and snow peas and stir-fry for another minute. Remove vegetables from the wok into a large bowl and set aside.

1/2 cup unsweetened pineapple juice 1 teaspoon rice vinegar 1 1/2 tablespoons soy sauce 1 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch 4 garlic cloves, minced Stir-fry 2 tablespoon peanut oil, 2 carrots, thinly sliced into diagonal strips 1 cup chopped orange or red pepper, cut into 1/2-inch strips 2 cups chopped bok choy 1 cup fresh or unsweetened canned pineapple chunks 1/2 cup sliced green onion 1 cup snow peas 1 cup almond (almond slivers) to finish

34

Return the wok to the burner. Add rest of the peanut oil and the marinated chicken. Stir-fry about 3 -5+ minutes until the chicken is cooked through.

Add cooked vegetables. Stir-fry for 1 minute more.

Stir the sauce mixture to make sure the cornstarch is completely dissolved.

Add the sauce to the wok and bring to a boil. Cook until the sauce thickens and appears clear and shiny, about 1 minute.

We love everything spicy ,so you may want to add a few Haberno peppers to perk it up. ( Remove seeds) The Haberno will add another dimension of flavor. www.livingwellmagazine.net

In a small bowl, whisk together the vinegar, water, oil, mustard and garlic. Drizzle over salad. Serve immediately.

Serves: 4

Rice

2 teaspoon grated fresh ginger

On individual salad plates. Arrange the pears on the spinach in a fan pattern.

Sprinkle with the cranberries.

February 2015

Dark Chocolate Sorbet with Crystallized Ginger (An ice cream maker is needed for this recipe) 3 cups water 2 tablespoons corn syrup 1 cup sugar 2/3 cup cocoa powder 3 ounces dark chocolate 1 tablespoon vanilla ½ cup crystallized ginger, chopped into small pieces

Chocolate Cupcakes with Strawberry Frosting 1/2 cup cocoa powder 1 cup boiling hot water 1 1/3 cups all purpose flour 2 teaspoons baking powder 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature 1 cup sugar 2 large eggs 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

full with batter and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until risen, springy to the touch, and a toothpick inserted into a cupcake comes out clean. Remove from oven and place on a wire rack to cool. Once the cupcakes have completely cooled, frost with icing.

Lightly grease, or line 16 muffin cups with paper liners.

In a small bowl stir until smooth the boiling hot water and the cocoa powder. Let cool to room temperature.

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.

Using the bowl of your electric mixer, or with a hand mixer, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating until smooth. Beat in the vanilla. Add the flour mixture and beat until incorporated. Then add the cooled cocoa mixture and stir until smooth.

Remove from heat, whisk in chocolate, stirring well until all of the chocolate melts. Make sure that no chunks remain, heating the mixture over very low heat if necessary to completely melt the chocolate.

Cool to room temperature, then stir in vanilla. Cover, and chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour.

Frosting 1/2 cup whole frozen strawberries, thawed 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, firm and slightly cold Pinch of kosher salt

Preheat oven to 375 degrees

In a medium saucepot, combine water, corn syrup and sugar over low heat. Stir until sugar dissolves. Bring to a boil, and reduce heat to medium and simmer for 2 minutes. Whisk in cocoa, and simmer until cocoa dissolves and mixture becomes smooth, about 2 more minutes.

1 1/4 cups confectioners’ sugar, sifted

Follow directions on your icecream maker. When the mixture is still soft but nearing completion, add the crystallized ginger and allow the ice cream mixture to mix in the ginger. Transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze until firm.

Makes about 1 quart.

1/4 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Place strawberries in the bowl of a small food processor; process until pureed. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat together butter and salt on medium speed until light and fluffy. Reduce mixer speed and slowly add confectioners’ sugar; beat until well combined. Add vanilla and 3 tablespoons strawberry puree (save any remaining strawberry puree for another use); mix until just blended. Frosting consistency should be dense and creamy, like ice cream.

Fill each muffin cup two-thirds www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

35

GROW Fresh Air

By Peg Castorani

Even NASA agrees that the stuffy air in your home and office can be detrimental to your health. They have done the research to provide us with a list of the most air cleansing plants for you, your family and even your pets.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air is often more than 10 times more polluted than outdoor air. Most of us are in our offices or homes most hours of the day, hopefully with good insulation from the winter’s chill. Unfortunately, building materials, paints, finishes, furnishings and carpets release harmful chemicals into our insulated space. Other toxic chemicals are emitted from cleaning products, pesticides, and hazardous household supplies. Do you really know what the cleaning company uses?

*Here is NASA’s list of the top 10 plants for a healthy space: Common name followed by their botanical name. Keep in mind, plants go in and out of fashion, so several may not be available.

At the end of the list, I have listed some of my favorite easy to grow houseplants that will enhance your daily life.

Areca Palm (Chrysalidocarpus lutescens) Lady Palm (Rhapis excels) Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii) Rubber Plant (Ficus robusta)

There may be mold growing on moist materials and surfaces.

Carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide gases can be released from gas-fueled combustion appliances (but I love my gas stove!).

Houseplants are one answer to challenge of interior pollution.

Dracaena “Janet Craig” (Dracaena dermensis)

NASA researched the effect of houseplants on sealed interior spaces in the 80s as they began to think about humans traveling to inhospitable environments and living in these spaces for lengthy periods of time. As you know all plants purify the air, so you do not have to get too obsessed with the plant list provided by NASA. Select plants that suit your environment. Consider how much sun each room gets and how cool they are in temperature.

Besides, plants make us smile. Choose the ones that you love just looking at them.

Ficus “Alii” (Ficus macleilandii)

As for maintenance, I simply water my houseplants once a week thoroughly. Let them get thoroughly moist, not swampy, then let them dry to the touch on top. Fertilize according to the plant needs with an organic fertilizer. I love Compost Tea Bags. If you buy plants at your local flower shop or garden center, you will get healthy plants with good advice for keeping them that way.

36

English Ivy ( Hedera helix) Dwarf Date Palm (Phoenix roebelenii)

Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata) Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) Others plants that are available are the ZZ Plant , Schefflera, Weeping Fig, Snake Plant, Norfolk Island Pine, Prayer Plant, Kalanchoe, Pothos, & Aloe Vera. *If you have a pet that has been known to get into your house plants, before purchasing plants on this list and any other house plants be sure that they are not poisonous.

www.livingwellmagazine.net

Peg Castorani is the owner of Gateway Garden Center in Hockessin, Delaware. Peg and her friendly, knowledgable staff will provide you with expert horticultural advice to help you fill your life with the beauty of plants. For questions or more information 302-239-2727 www.gatewaygardens.com February 2015

RI m

ac

y

SaveWay

o .c

ha

rm

Compounding Pharmacy

Save Way Compounding Pharmacy is

ww

w. sa

ve

wa

yp

a state of the art compounding pharmacy specializing in providing medication solutions for the whole family. We prepare customized doses and dosage forms to meet the unique needs of each individual patient whether they are a human or an animal.

ph: 302.369.5520 fax: 302.369.5853 Toll Free: 877.225.8469

email: savewaypharmacy@aol.com

I Dye-free

Gluten-free

Compliant with all State and Federal regulations governing sterile compounding.

Alcohol-Free

Fragrance-Free Sugar-Free Preservative-Free Enticing Flavors Available

31 Albe Drive #1 • NewArk, De 19702

Jurdy Green

by Jenifer Jurden.

Jurdy focuses on engaging humans worldwide on the topic of green and helping them to “get grinning, get greening.� See Jurdy now at two websites!: www.jurdygreen.com and www.jurdy.com

38

www.livingwellmagazine.net

February 2015

Winter Sale! st 1 h c r a M s d En Custom Drapery, Valances and Blinds!

Si

nc e

19 11

302.454.7827

redstardecorating@comcast.net

SHOP AT HOME OR OFFICE! Custom Drapery Valances Cornices Shutters

Sheers Blinds Flooring Bedspreads

Professional Design Expert Installation & Repairs

the

Ponds at Bayberry a place to live well

an american small town in the making.

A place to linger with friends on the front porch – or enjoy morning coffee with the sunrise. A place for lounging poolside on a sunny summer day – and relaxing in a comfortable empty nest. The Ponds at Bayberry is all about quality of life – in every aspect of its thoughtful, environmentally-sound design. Green, tree-lined boulevards, acres and acres of parkland and a variety of beautiful, historically-inspired, energy efficient home designs will create a setting and a lifestyle unlike anything else. Interested? The best way to experience The Ponds at Bayberry is to visit us. Come and take a look at your future hometown…The Ponds at Bayberry.

Single Family Homes From The Upper $200’s For Those 55 And Better Sales Center – currently selling from The Village of Bayberry North Sales Center- 605 Vivaldi Drive, Middletown,DE 19709 1532 E. Matisse Drive, Middletown, DE 19709 Hours: Daily 11-6, Monday 12-6 Hours: Daily 11-6, Monday 12-6 info@pondsofbayberry | 302-378-5072 | www.pondsofbayberry.com info@bayberryhomes.com | (302) 376-7400 | www.pondsatbayberry.com

www.blenheimhomes.com