Feelgood 18-06-2010

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Feelgood Friday, June 18, 2010

21st st century dads Padraig McNamara joins the ranks of modern fathers who break the traditional family mould: 8,9,10

PRESSURE PAYS: A little stress can be good for you: 4,5

WIDE NET: Why tennis can be enjoyed at any age: 6

Photograph by: Maxwells

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WITH LOVE: Food and beauty gifts to make dad’s day: 11, 14

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2 News front

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The earlier the pregnancy scan the more difficult it is to interpret the findings, says Sharon Ní Chonchúir Kate O’Reilly WHAT’S ON ■ HERB GARDEN: Dr Dilis Clare will open her herb garden to the public this Sunday, from 12pm to 6pm. There will be tours of the herb garden throughout the afternoon, with talks about the medicinal benefits and lore connected to the herbs. The garden is at 44 Seacrest, Knocknacarra, off the Ballymooneen Road, Galway. Donations will be collected at the entrance and all proceeds go to The Galway Simon Community and The Herbal Medicine Research Project, NUIG. For more information, see www.healthandherbs.ie ■ BIKE WEEK: National Bike Week, which runs until June 20, is a cross-community effort to highlight cycling as a fun, cost-effective and healthy way to travel. In Cork, the final event of the week is on this Sunday, when a Charity Cycle will start at 2pm at Coláiste Choilm in Ballincollig finishing at Fitzgerald’s Park with a brass band, puppets, fun and games. All proceeds will be donated to Marymount Hospice. See www.bikeweek.ie ■ ZOO DAY: Jacob’s is celebrating the launch of their new Jacobs4kids biscuits with a fun-filled day out for families in Dublin Zoo on Sunday June 27, from 11am to 6pm. Two kids will go free with lots of activities for them to enjoy.

■ REIKI ONE: Experience the healing energy of reiki and learn how to treat yourself and others in a reiki one workshop which will be given in Glanmire on June 26 and 27. This course costs F150 and proceeds will go towards funding a counselling service for the unemployed.

If you would like to know more, contact Miriam on 086-0403222 or by email: miros@eircom.net ■ HEART CLINIC: The Irish Heart Foundation will hold a free blood pressure and cholesterol testing clinic at the Parish Centre, Carrigaline on Wednesday next June 23 from 10am to 12pm.

For more details call their Cork office on 021-4505822 or if you have questions about stroke or heart disease you can also contact the helpline at 1890 432787.

■ CANCER WALK: The Kerry Way Cancer Research Walk is a 70km three-day fundraising event that has raised nearly F300,000 for cancer research in the past four years. Online registration is now open on www.kerrywaycancerwalk.ie for this year’s event which takes place from Friday, July 23 to Sunday, July 25.

The three days of guided walks will start and finish each day in Kenmare and will incorporate some of the Kerry Way and Beara Way trails. Entries will close on Friday, July 2. For details contact the development office at Cork Cancer Research Centre on 021-490 1437.

■ Items for inclusion in this column can be sent to koreilly8@gmail.com

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Signs of life

R

ECENT revelations about HSE misdiagnoses of miscarriages have made many pregnant women anxious. What are the things they should consider, if they are planning a scan in the early stages of pregnancy?

“It’s a complicated area,” says Dr Sam Coulter-Smith, master of the Rotunda maternity hospital. “The earlier you scan, the more difficult it is to interpret. But there are a number of reasons women want to scan at an early stage.”

Some are motivated by the prospect of seeing their baby for the first time, while others have a need for reassurance. This is especially true of women who have suffered ectopic pregnancies, or miscarriages, in the past.

But there are reasons why doctors have traditionally urged women to wait until the pregnancy has reached 12 weeks.

“Not every six-week pregnancy looks the same,” says Dr Coulter-Smith. “There are lots of variables to be taken into account. If an inexperienced person reads that scan, they may find it difficult to make a firm diagnosis.”

Many scanning machines are not designed for early-scanning, either. “They are made to scan a 12-week-old foetus,” says Dr Coulter-Smith. “There may not be sufficient quality to see a foetus at six weeks.”

There is also potential for confusion about dates. Being a week out, at this stage,

AS BIG AS LIFE: Some scanners are unable to see a foetus of six weeks.

Picture: iStock

can make a big difference.

There is a need for re-education on this issue, says Dr Coulter-Smith. “Prospective parents must accept that you can only tell a certain amount from a scan, at any particular stage,” he says.

“The earlier the pregnancy, the less you can tell. And inexperienced medical staff, who are unsure, need to have the confidence to refer women for another scan, at a later stage.”

The Miscarriage Association of Ireland is

pushing for this to be made mandatory. “A compulsory, second scan should be carried out in every case where a life is potentially at risk,” says spokesperson, June O’Toole.

“If a second scan had been carried out in the cases reported in the media, a lot of upset would have been avoided.”

Dr Coulter-Smith agrees. “There are no medical reasons not to scan,” he says. “Anything that reassures parents is good, and if there is cause for concern, they should scan again.”

HEALTH NOTES TAKING to the open roads on a bicycle during these long summer days is a terrific way to get exercise but before you head off, spare a though for your safety.

To mark National Bike Week, Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Ireland is asking all cyclists to wear a helmet. Barbara O’Connell, CEO of ABI Ireland says: “Wearing a helmet is the most effective way of reducing head injuries during bicycle collisions. The chances of serious head trauma and lifelong disabilities can be reduced by between 65% to 88% when a helmet is worn during a bicycle collision.”

An estimated 10,000 Irish people are affected by ABI every year.

Your ability to recover from an illness quickly depends on whether you are chilled or wound-up, according to recent research, which found relaxed people can recover twice as quickly as those who are stressed.

Professor John Weinman and his team from the Institute of Psychiatry at King’s College London, inflicted a tiny ‘punch’ wound on healthy volunteers with varying levels of stress, from low to high. Levels of the stress hormone cortisol were monitored to track the differences in healing speed.

Young, free and interested in making movies?

Then check out a summer course starting in Midleton, Co Cork on June 28. It offers 15 to 21-year-olds a unique opportunity to www.irishexaminer.com www.irishexaminer.com

firstcutfilm@gmail.com.

The Irish interest in bio-identical hormones keeps growing. London-based Dr Paivi Ahtonen will be holding bio-identical hormone clinics on July 5-7 at Fuschia, 38 Pope’s Quay, Cork. To book an appointment call 086-8112298. Further details about this customised treatment for out-of-kilter hormones can be found on Dr Ahtonen’s website, www.healthlongevity.co.uk.

SAFETY FIRST: Wearing a cycling helmet can significantly reduce the risk of serious head trauma.

Picture: Getty Images

make their own movie. The week-long workshop includes screenwriting, pre-production, production, acting for film, direction, lighting, and editing principles. Contact Mary McGrath, co-ordinator First Cut! Youth Film Project, 086-8139019 or email:

www.irishexaminer.com feelgood@examiner.ie

FRIDAY, JUNE 18, 2010

One in four people will get at least one contagious wart or verruca at some point in their lives. Despite this, awareness of how warts are spread is low. According to a survey entitled the Wart Report, carried out on behalf of Wartner, more than 50% of respondents did not know that warts can be spread through direct and indirect contact. Almost one in four surveyed were unaware that warts were caused by a virus.

Worryingly, one in four believed that children were the least likely group to contract warts or verrucas. In fact, children and teenagers are more likely to suffer from warts or verrucas because they have not yet built up enough antibodies to fight the virus.

Warts and verrucas are highly contagious and the virus thrives in moist conditions such as swimming pools and shower rooms.

■ For more information about warts, verrucas log on to www.wartner.eu.ie.

Editorial: 021 4802 292

Irene Feighan

Advertising: 021 4802 215

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In profile THE SHAPE I'M IN

Lucy Brennan

Winning streak O

NCE, twice, three times a winner: that’s Lucy Brennan. For the third year in a row, the 51-year-old has been the first woman over the line at the Cork City Marathon.

With a finishing time of two hours, 54 minutes and 41 seconds, Lucy, one of Ireland’s top distance-runners, says this year’s Cork marathon brought extra pressure because she’d already won it twice before.

“It’s really a very special win for me,” says the Sligo woman, who admits to amazement that she’s still top of the running stakes at her age.

“It amazes me and a lot of other people. It’s dedication really. I have huge commitment to my training. It’s number one in my day. If I have a very busy day work-wise, I’ll be up at 5.30am to go training.”

A supervisor in the parks department of Sligo Borough Council, Lucy’s training con- LONG DISTANCE: Lucy Brennan recently won the women’s section of the Cork City sists mostly of running and a Marathon for the third time. Picture: James Connolly / PicSell8 little gym work. “The gym doesn’t appeal as much. I love the outdoors. How do you relax?

On an average day, I’ll do 70 to 80 minutes I’m very content to throw the legs up on — at weekends, it’s more like two to three the settee and watch TV — after a hectic hours.” day, I can easily just pop off to sleep.

Acknowledging that she has “a very competitive edge” that drives her to achieve, Who would you invite to your dream Lucy says Cork has other attractions besides dinner party? the marathon. “My partner, Dermot Having met and chatted with her at the Cronin, is in Cork — he’s a former runCork marathon, I’d invite Sonia O’Sullivan. ner.”

And Paula Radcliffe, too. I admire those A five-times winner of the Longford women very much. I’d also invite President marathon, Lucy usually runs three Mary McAleese. marathons a year. “I’ll give my body a few weeks to recover and then I’ll decide what When did you last cry?

I’ll do next.”

After the Cork marathon — my phone was going non-stop with messages of conWhat shape are you in? gratulations from old and current friends. It Right after the Cork run, my legs were was lovely, very emotional. quite sore. Generally, though, I’m in very good shape. Feeling fit and good in myself What’s your favourite smell? is important to me.

The countryside in April or May after a shower of rain — you get all these wonderDo you have any health concerns? ful aromas.

No, I’m very healthy. I’ve never been in hospital for anything serious. Over the years What would you change about your apI have struggled with my iron levels. I was a pearance? vegetarian and didn’t eat meat — no matter I’d like to do something different with my what supplement I took, I was always hair, maybe have it longer. anaemic. I went back to eating meat and since then I feel much better and have fewer What trait do you least like in others? injuries. I feel my body needs meat, but Dishonesty — I like people to be sincere that’s just me. and say what they feel.

A UNIQUE GIFT A PERSONALISED IRISH EXAMINER FRONT PAGE

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What are your healthiest eating habits?

I eat lots of vegetables, a fair bit of chicken and red meat on occasion. I love good food and never eat high-fat foods. I have to eat a lot of carbs. It’s very important to have a good balanced dinner each day.

What’s your guiltiest pleasure?

I love fruit-cake and homemade breads.

Apple and rhubarb tarts would be my downfall.

What would keep you awake at night?

I’m generally a good sleeper though I go through phases when I don’t sleep very well. Coming up to a race, I can toss and turn and be anxious.

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What trait do you least like in yourself?

I could organise myself a bit better. In my head, I think I can do everything. With a bit of planning, I’d take on less.

Do you pray?

I do. It’s not that I set aside a time everyday but I would pray at some stage each day, often when I’m out training.

What would cheer up your day?

Somebody being pleasant to me, sending me good wishes or complimenting my work.

Helen O’Callaghan

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Take control We’ve been led to believe that all stress is destructive and prematurely ages us. But now XH - V1

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research suggests some stress may have the opposite effect, says Anna Magee

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CHALLENGE YOURSELF C

HRONIC, relentless stress will make you exhausted, prone to infection and old before your time, right? So far, so obvious. But according to a growing school of scientific thought, the right kind of stress could keep you young.

Taken in small doses and at regular intervals, certain physical and mental stressors, such as regular, tough exercise, mind-bending intellectual work and even pressing deadlines, could not only strengthen your immune-system, they could also help fight some of the physical and mental decline that — you may have noticed — is hard to avoid as you get older.

“There has been too much emphasis on the unhealthy aspects of stress and the assumption that all types of stress are bad,” says Dr Mark Mattson, director of the laboratory of neurosciences at the National Institute of Ageing in the US. “But the right kind of stress can improve the length and quality of life.”

Regular exposure to mild stressors, Mattson

Regular exposure to mild stressors leads to a building up of the body’s defence systems such as brain, immune and muscle function that would otherwise decline as we age

Picture: Getty Images

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says, causes a defensive response in the body, which leads to a building-up of the body’s defence systems, such as brain, immune and muscle function, that would otherwise decline as we age. That strengthening process, called hormesis, means that by exposing ourselves intermittently to mild stressors, we may, over time, protect ourselves against further, bigger challenges by, literally, building up our bodies’ ability to fight back, mentally and physically. Professor Mattson is so convinced of the positive role stress has to play in healthy ageing that he would, one day, like to see “a menu of good stressors for us to incorporate into our daily lives.”

Top of that good stressor menu would be exercise, a classic example of hormesis at

FRIDAY, JUNE 18, 2010

work. “All the benefits we know from exercise, we can’t get without stressing out our bodies a little bit,” says Dr Greg Whyte, professor of applied sport and exercise science at Liverpool John Moore’s University, and author of Get Fit, Not Fat (Kyle Cathie F18).

“Getting fitter is the way the body adapts to regular episodes of physical stressors.”

Here’s how: your body has a natural equilibrium day to day. Too much ongoing, chronic stress can change that too dramatically, so the system breaks down and you become ill. But exercise in regular bouts challenges this equilibrium in a positive way. The heart rate goes up, muscle temperature and oxygen consumption rise, and, exercised regularly over time, the body is forced to get stronger in response.

“Naturally, our bodies function peaks in the mid-30s,” says Professor Whyte. “From then on, basic fitness, aerobic capacity, mobility, flexibility and strength reduces. By forcing your body to adapt to the regular stress of exercise — in any form — you can slow that progression down.”

Second on the positive stressor list would be stressful intellectual challenges. These prompt the release of brain chemicals that strengthen the connection between neurons in the brain, helping it process information more efficiently. “If you don’t expose your mind periodically to mild stress, then cells essentially become complacent and say ‘hey, we don’t have any reason to get stronger, because we’re never exposed to any stress,” says Professor Mattson.

In his laboratory studies, animals exposed to good stressors showed higher levels of BDNF, a brain protein associated with a lowered risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

So, next you time you feel despair about the stressful nature of your job or that brain-crunching medieval history course you’ve signed up for, don’t complain, it could be keeping you young. “Keeping mentally active with regular mental challenges — even if they seem stressful at the time — could enhance brain function as we age,” says Professor Mattson. A 2002 University of Texas study found that people engaged in meaningful, mentally-challenging, and occasionally stressful, professions enjoyed better health and lived for up to ten years longer than their counterparts who did boring, passive work.

As we get older, our immune system declines, too. But studies from the University of Colorado-Boulder found that animals exposed to small amounts of good stress are also more efficient at fighting infections than those that are not exposed to any stress.

“When the stress response is turned on for short, sharp bouts, you get all the positive benefits of stress,” says Dr Monika Fleshner, professor of integrative physiology, who led the studies. “The pupils dilate, so you see better, blood circulation pumps faster, and muscles become more active, in preparation for ‘fight or flight’. All this builds up the immune system, so it becomes more efficient at bacteria-killing.”

As with most things, when it comes to healthy, anti-ageing stress, balance is key.

That’s why experts now talk about finding our ‘optimal stress zone’ — the perfect tip-

Get into the zone

Don’t stress over stress

T

HE right amount of stress can be energising and anti-ageing, say experts, while too little can lead to disease and make us old before our time. Here’s how to strike a balance, from stress expert Sue Firth, author of More Life, Less Stress (from Amazon.co.uk F12).

NOT ENOUGH STRESS? Fire up your system up and get the energising benefits of good stress into your life.

■ Breathe shallowly. Yes, that’s shallowly.

For five minutes, about half an hour before you have to go on stage or take that scary interview, pant through your mouth with very shallow breaths. It’s energising and will get adrenalin pumping through your system — before such events adrenalin is the hormone that makes up perform at our best.

■ Move it! Get some fast, upbeat music on your iPod and go for a long, energising walk — preferably outside. The combination of movement and daylight boosts serotonin and lifts mood so you feel instantly energised. Choose upbeat music that’s around 120 beats per minute (most dance music — 40-somethings think Duran Duran, Madness and Adam & The Ants).

■ Call your biggest fan. Too few stressful challenges over the long-term can ironically have the same effect as too many, leaving us de-motivated and with a lack of belief in ourselves. If you feel like this, call a friend who believes in you.

TOO MUCH STRESS? Control chronic stress and reap the physical and mental benefits, with these simple strategies ■ Breathe deeply. Sounds obvious, but it’s usually the last thing we think of doing when we’re under stress. There’s no point trying to reason or think yourself out of an immediate stressful situation as your system is being flooded with stress hormones responding to the challenge and you’re being prepared to literally fight or flight. By taking five deep, slow breaths into your belly and diaphragm, you can harness the moti-

ping point of just enough good stress to keep you healthy. But with so much in today’s highly stressful world being out of our control, is this realistic? Yes, says Dr Fleshner.

“We can’t avoid stress, but the way we respond to a stressful situation can render it good or bad.”

“First, identify what you can control, then

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MUSIC MATTERS: Music can give you a needed boost to get you moving as well as help calm you down. Picture: Getty Images vating effects of those hormones, and lessen feelings of overwhelm.

■ Slow it down. Music is a powerful calming influence and studies have shown that classical music (in particular the music of Beethoven, Brahms and Debussy) can soothe the effects of stress.

do what you need to do to influence its outcome,” says Susan Firth, author of More Life, Less Stress (F12 from amazon.co.uk) and stress management consultant. “That could be simply practicing, preparing, or, well, just doing it,” she says. Then, identify what you have little control over and react accordingly.

“If that’s a mistake you made, learn from it

■ Call someone practical. Most of us have one friend who seems to effortlessly deal with an endless list of demands on her personal and work time. Next time you feel you’re drowning in demands on your time and energy, call her and ask for some practical wisdom. She’ll probably be flattered.

and move on — don’t mull over it,” says Firth. “If it is a situation you feel you have no influence over, make a decision about whether you will adapt to it in the best way you can or leave. There’s nothing more energising than action towards change, even if it’s the tiniest of steps”. (See our panel for Firth’s tips on getting into the optimal stress zone).

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HOW can we tell the difference between bad stress that makes us old and narky and good stress that could be the fountain of youth?

As a general rule, say experts, positive stressful challenges have two characteristics — they are within our control (or seem to be) and they have a beginning and an end in sight. For example, training for a marathon — your performance is up to your training to a degree, and the stress of it ends at the finish line. Work deadlines, nerve-wrecking public speaking or presentations, piano recitals or performances and exams are all examples of good stress, because you can influence your own performance by practicing or preparation and — even if they feel endless at the time — each will always have its own finish point, after which you can rest.

“Stressful times that are controllable and voluntary seem to be good for you” says Professor Mattson. “Particularly if you’re engaged in something that is challenging to you physically or mentally, if there is an end in sight and they are followed by periods of recuperation.”

On the other hand, chronic and ongoing stress that is out of our control is often called ‘psychosocial’ stress by psychologists — think bad bosses, an unhappy marriage, isolated social life or money problems that don’t let up, says David Alpert, founder of the Institute of Anti-Ageing in London. “Chronic, ongoing stress over time wears out the body’s supply of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol,” says Alpert. “In small, regular doses these hormones keep us vital.

But chronic stress wears out our bodies’ ability to produce those and other vital hormones. Over time, that constant stress leads not only to heart attacks, depression and suppressed immune function but also disrupted sleep, premature wrinkles and greying hair.”

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Tennis can be played at any age. It’s a game and a way of life, says John Daly

LOVE ALL O

VER the next two weeks, McEnroe, Federer and Sharapova wannabes all over the world will suddenly appear at tennis courts, inspired by the drama and wonder of Wimbledon. As happens every year around this time, tennis players, old and young, rediscover that unused racquet, plus cool headband, and make a beeline to their local club, or public courts, for immersion in an activity described as “a game for life.”

Whether you’re a gutsy 16-year-old itching to flake the fur off a Tretorn X ball, or a sprightly 66-year-old keen to keep brain synapses and back joints in supple condition, tennis is, as Pete Sampras once said: “A state of mind, a way of life that never leaves you.”

Regardless of your age or grade, tennis is more than a game of serve, volley, and smash. When you stroll on court, you carry a whole lot more than just racquet and balls — add personality, character, and temperament as essentials in any kit bag.

When Billie Jean King called it “a game of violent action in an atmosphere of total tranquillity,” she got it spot on. Requiring flexibility, aerobic fitness, and mental agility, it’s a sport where the highest peak is always on the distant horizon and perfection a lifelong quest, from the teenager to the septuagenarian.

Declan Bray, a coach at Cork’s Sports Village (www.sportsvillagecork.com), witnesses first-hand the daily rivalry and friendship the game fosters among its followers. “I’ll often see a pair of 40-somethings engaged in battle as intense as anything served up by McEnroe and Borg on the hallowed lawns of Wimbledon,” he says.

“The competition that began in their junior coaching days is still as intense 35 years on. Having played together since

MATCH SET: Tennis coach Declan Bray says the game encourages rivalry and friendships among its followers.

Picture: Denis Minehane

childhood, they are pretty evenly matched, so the result is always in doubt and it challenges them to see if they can come up with something special each week to try and gain an edge,” he says.

“Their love of the game, and the fact that their matches swing back and forth, keeps them interested and challenged. At the end, they shake hands and talk about the shot that Federer would have been proud of, if only it didn’t hit the net, and, as they head off for their morning coffee, you’ll always hear them say; ‘Same time next week?’ That, in essence, is what the game is all about.”

In a sport where physical and mental development are constant companions, tennis develops aerobic fitness, speed, strength, motor control, coordination and flexibility.

Emotionally, it develops the ability to manage mistakes and adversity, plan strategically, win and lose graciously, and accept responsibility.

“People who participate in tennis three hours per week, at moderately vigorous intensity, cut their risk of death in half from any cause,” says Dr Jack Groppel, a fellow in the American College of Sports Medicine. It is a sentiment echoed by findings of the British Journal of Sports Medicine, in 2006: “The health of veteran tennis players is improved by enhanced aerobic capacity, greater bone densities in specific regions, lower body fat, greater strength, and maintained reaction-time performance, in comparison with age-matched but less active controls.”

Additionally, the American Academy of Neurology found “activities that reduce the risk of cognitive decline, that can come with ageing, include playing tennis twice a week.”

So, whether you’re a tentative 40-something who has never played before, or a gutsy 10-year primadonna keen to emulate Venus Williams, the courts are ready and waiting — all that’s required is your enthusiasm. “Anyone can take up tennis, regardless of age,” says Bray. “The International Tennis Federation has introduced a programme for beginner adults called Serve, Rally, Score, where you can, literally, start playing a match during your first lesson.” Similarly, membership of a club need not be a barrier.

“Most clubs will run open days to attract new members and give an opportunity to sample club activities and atmosphere,” he says. “Joining a club can be very rewarding as you become part of the wider tennis community, but pay-and-play facilities are another alternative, with junior and adult coaching programmes going on all year round.”

The ball’s in your court WANT to sharpen your game? Then, here are some tips: 1Training time pays dividends: weight training, leg exercises, and short sprints will improve your on-court play. Talk to your gym trainer about a programme.

2 Eat properly: This counts with all sports, and particularly with tennis. Bananas or Jaffa cakes are a favourite during matches.

3 Warm up: make time in the changing room for stretching the limbs and joints, before hitting any balls. It helps to keep you injury-free.

4 Find a routine: if tennis is your sport, try to give it the time it deserves and set aside at least two, 90-minute sessions a week.

5Get a good attitude: there’s only one John McEnroe, and while we all like a good showman, it really doesn’t work to be a constant moaner across the net.

6 Drink plenty of water: stencil this one on your forehead. Replacing fluids is a must.

7 Believe: even though it’s become a cliché phrase used in all sports advertising these days, you really do need to trust in your own abilities.

8 Have courage: Stosur was the odds-on favourite to beat the older, and slower Schiavone in the French ladies’ final this year, but it didn’t work out like that. A textbook example of heart over head.

9 Give tennis its due respect: invest in yourself with the odd lesson and good equipment — it will pay for itself a hundredfold.

10 Love every moment: you’re active and alive playing a sport you love, in the open air. What’s not to like?

Some jargon

Ace — a winning serve, often followed by a superior smirk. entre court — a place of ultimate achievement we all strive for.

Drop shot — a ball which barely clears the net, only to drop dead, leaving your opponent tired and emotional.

Love — the tennis word for zero, comes from the French for egg — l’oeuf — symbolising nothing. Yes, it is weird.

COURT MASTER: Spain's Rafael Nadal celebrates after defeating Sweden's Robin match for the French Open tennis tournament at the Roland Garros stadium in Paris,

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Soderling during a men's finals earlier this month.

Picture:

FRIDAY, JUNE 18, 2010

AP Photo/Michel Euler

Topspin — makes the ball jump and the receiver fume.

Umpire — the referee. Known by a variety of other words.

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Psychology 7

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From depression to addiction, many conditions are ‘self-created’ to highlight the loneliness within

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The

Feel Good Personals

Tony Humphreys

T

HERE is often an aggressive reaction to the suggestion that illness may be created to heal wounds to the emotional self, to the soul. People say: ‘Do you mean to tell me that I brought this illness upon myself? — That’s mad.’ A medical colleague responded similarly, saying: ‘You are blaming people for their illnesses.’

On the contrary, I am drawing attention to the awesome power of the self to heal the deepest disease of all — alienation from one’s unique and sacred presence.

Consider the other ways a person reveals his or her dark inner terrain: ■ depression, ■ chronic anxiety, ■ obsessiveness, ■ perfectionism, ■ aggression, ■ addiction to substances, ■ addiction to work, ■ addiction to what others think and say, ■ addiction to the ‘body beautiful’, ■ hallucinations.

Are we saying ‘these creations are off the wall?’ It may be easier to accept that the foregoing, distressing symptoms are creations in times of emotional danger, but physical illness has the same compassionate intention.

Each of the conditions mentioned is cleverly devised to draw attention to a troubled interiority. It is not that a person wakes up one morning and consciously decides ‘I’m going to create a depression or, indeed, an illness today’. No, this process occurs unconsciously.

Be reassured, when the self has the emotional safety to be authentic it will express openly its unresolved hurts and seek the help and support needed for these wounds to be healed. The hope is that its unconsciously created depression or illness will be detected by some mature individual, or wellbeing practitioner, as a symptom of a hidden self — and not flown in vain.

Depression is deep emotional pain — no words can capture its utter despair. But without that emotional pain — like physical pain — we would not know what needs to be healed. For example, we can unwittingly cut ourselves, and the physical pain compassionately draws attention to the wound. The pain is not the enemy, it is a creative ally.

Whatever the presenting condition is — for example, anxiety, depression, substance addiction, migraine headache, heart disease, back-pain — there is no enemy within.

When individuals believe there is an enemy — like depression or heart disease — and they rant and rave at the injustice of it, they are creating yet another defence, because there exists no safety in their relationships to voice the hidden emotional pain of not mattering.

At least when we are depressed we draw some attention — albeit of a substitute nature — to the darkness within, but we still not dare express to the significant other — parent, teacher, lover, spouse, sister, brother, boss, doctor — the truth of feeling abandoned, judged, controlled, less than others, invisible.

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FOR Picture: Corbis

When we are depressed we draw some attention to the darkness within, but we still not dare express to our significant other the truth of feeling abandoned, judged, controlled, invisible Nevertheless, being able to talk about being depressed, despairing, even being suicidal is some comfort — though cold comfort — and protects from utter despair. However, if somebody was to spot what one really needs to talk about — how even more creative the depression then becomes. Now, real rather than substitute resolution is possible and the sky is the limit.

I believe illness offers similar opportunities — either at the substitute or real level. It is so understandable how reluctant we are to let go of the idea that illnesses are random happenings over which we have no control. Understandably, because illness is one of the most powerful ways of being able to talk about feeling, and being, sick without revealing what you are truly and deeply sick of — emotional abandonment. At least when you are sick you are highly likely to receive attention in the form of sympathy, nurturance, kindness, old wives’ remedies, visits to the doctor and medical ‘cures’. Who would not be sick when your daily diet has been one of harsh rejection, or of not being worthy of consideration. Illness in such situations is a compassionate and creative balm to the deeper, underlying wounds.

Ultimately, the causes of all human misery lie in a lack of loving. When illness becomes the means to either reduce the intensity of such abandonment, or brings to light the unbearable plight of having been hidden for so long, it is surely an ally, never the enemy.

■ Dr Tony Humphreys is a clinical psychologist and author of several books on practical psychology, including The Compassionate Intentions of Illness, which is co-authored with Helen Ruddle.

FRIDAY, JUNE 18, 2010

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A DIFFERENT VIEW ON LIFESTYLE

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Great writers and mentors. Where you come first.

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8 Cover story

Father’s Day XH - V2

DADDIES UNLIMITED

9

Darragh has given me a sense of meaning and purpose

THE PART-TIME DAD

THE SINGLE DAD

Once the family unit was sacrosanct. It consisted of a working dad and a mum who stayed at home to care for the children. Fast forward to the 21st century and things couldn’t be more different: the majority of mums now work outside the home, it’s not uncommon to have stay-at-home dads and divorce is on the increase. The word family has become an elastic concept embracing a broad spectrum of lifestyles. This Father’s Day, we celebrate the dads who don’t live up to the old stereotypes. Sue Leonard reports THE YOUNG DAD

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WHEN Pádraig McNamara, 23, first discovered he was to be a dad, he was shocked to the core.

“It was ‘whoa!’ I didn’t think I was ready,” says Pádraig. “It wasn’t planned. But when Darragh, now 10 months, was born, it was brilliant. I was at the birth and I was dazed with emotion.”

At the time Pádraig was living with Darragh’s mum, but the relationship didn’t work out. So he moved home to Mulhuddart. He has mutually-agreed custody of Darragh for three or four days every week — usually from Monday until Thursday, leaving him free to work over the weekend.

“Being a dad is really rewarding,” says Pádraig. “It’s delightful just to watch your son, and to see how quickly he grows, and how quickly he learns. Darragh has given me a sense of meaning and purpose — he’s given my life a sense of direction.

“He’s a little angel. There’s not a bother on him. He’s easy to look after and he’s a great lad. He’s always happy. When I was still with Laura I missed my freedom, but I still have that now.

“My mother has taken to the grandmother role well. If I’m working — as a barman — she will mind Darragh for me.

“I have great plans for Darragh. I want him to learn languages and to learn a musical instrument. I want him to have better than I had — my dad was absent from a young age.

I’ll teach him strong family values.

I’m determined to be a good dad.”

CLOSE BOND: College student Liam Duff and his son Hugo at home in Kinsale.

Picture: Denis Minihane

Even before I had Hugo, I was bored with the nightlife LIAM DUFF, now 21, hadn’t planned to become a father at 19, but he’d always wanted to be a young dad.

“I always thought that would be good,” says Liam. “My father was 35 when he had me. I was always aware of that gap.”

A third year student of environmental plant biotechnology at UCC, Liam misses out on the extra-curricular activities. It’s an hour’s bus trip to get home to Kinsale to Hugo and to his partner Charlotte Cargin.

“People say, ‘Shouldn’t you be travelling, or in nightclubs binge drinking’, but I was never, really into all that. I enjoyed my Leaving Certificate holiday, but even in first year, before I had Hugo, I got bored with the nightlife.

Feelgood

“The best thing about being a dad, is Hugo’s ability to be always happy. However upset you might be, Hugo will come in and give you a hug. If he walks into a room you can’t help but smile. He’s always jumping around laughing. It’s contagious and has an uplifting effect. He can be frustrating, and I get frustrated with him, but that’s a small thing.

“I hope Hugo and I have a good mutual respect for each other. I hope I can be a good friend who can influence him. I’d like to help him acquire a good spiritual compass, because if one has that, life can be much easier.”

Liam on Father’s Day: “I think fathers should be recognised, but I’m not sure father’s day is the way to do it.”

FORMER GARDA: Declan Keaveney with the youngest of his three children, Cathal.

My children are so precious. Taking early retirement was the best decision I ever made DECLAN KEAVENEY, 53, separated from his wife in 2005. From the outset he want full custody of the children — Coran, 14. Ciara, 12 and Cathal, 10 — which he gained after two years.

At first, Maynooth-based Declan hired a nanny and continued working as a Garda.

He adored his job, and gained constant promotion, but he gave it up for the sake of his children.

“It was the best decision I ever made,” says Declan, who took early retirement two years ago. “My children are so precious, and this is the most important time in their lives. I think it is vital for me to be there for

them. I think one or both parents should always be there.”

Before he got custody, Declan took a parenting course. “That was wonderful,” he says. “It gave me confidence. It was good to discuss ways of parenting with other parents.

“I give the children boundaries. I think kids like them. They test them occasionally to check they are still there.”

The best thing about being a dad, Declan says, is the satisfaction he gets seeing the children go off to school with a smile on their faces.

“To see that is fantastic. I got satisfaction from being a garda, from passing exams and

from extra-curricular activities, but it was nothing compared to the satisfaction I get from parenting. It’s challenging, but life is no good if there are no challenges. The worst thing is when one of them gets hurt.”

He wife died earlier this year. Is life harder for the children?

“Yes, in one way. She was a good mother when she was here. We go to the grave, but she is gone from their lives.”

Declan on Father’s Day: “It doesn’t mean a whole lot, but I think fathers should be equal to mothers. It’s important to give fathers recognition.”

FRIDAY, JUNE 18, 2010

Pádraig on Father’s Day: “It’s just a date, a bit like Valentine’s Day. You should be a good dad all the time. It means nothing.”

BABY LOVE: Padraig McNamara with his son Darragh, aged 10 months.

Picture:Maxwell’s

● PAGE 10: The gay dad and the at-home dad

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10 Cover story

Father’s Day

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XUAN BUSTO, dad to Isolina, six, and Fionn, three, was once a computer engineer working with Intel. But three years ago, when he was offered redundancy, he decided to take it and follow his dreams. A keen photographer, he set up a business, asturphoto.com, fitting his work around the children, whom he cares for at home.

“My wife Shauna works in admin in a university,” says Xuan. “The children were in a crèche full time early on. And we didn’t want that. After 15 years of working in a job with a lot of stress, it was good to take a break. I may go back in the future, but right now, I’m enjoying being with the children.”

It’s not all easy. There are times when Xuan finds it difficult to keep his cool. Like when Fionn locked himself into the bathroom, or when the children spend their time fighting. And it can also be lonely.

“I feel a bit left out at the school gates. I tend not to be included in ‘play dates’. I had a friend who was an at home dad too. But he only lasted a year. That was hard for me. I miss him a lot.

“The best thing is getting to know the children. When they have a problem, they come to me. I love those intimate moments.

“There are times I want to bang my head against a wall. Parenting is hard, but I wouldn’t change it for the world.”

Xuan on Father’s Day: “It’s good to give dad’s recognition. I think that’s important.”

Feelgood

THE AT-HOME DAD

When the children have a problem, they come to me. I love those intimate moments

THE GAY DAD

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HANGING OUT: Xaun Busto is seen here with his children, Isolina, six, and three-year-old Fionn.

Picture: Maura Hickey

Fatherhood is hugely important to me. I’ve always stayed involved BRIAN FINNEGAN, 45, is the editor of Gay Community News. When he was in his late teens, he wasn’t thinking about having children. Though he was gay, he wanted to be heterosexual.

“I was unhappy about being gay when I met my son’s mother. We hit it off, and began to have a sexual relationship. I thought: ‘Hurrah I am part of the club’.”

By the time Brian’s son Colm was born, he realised he couldn’t be straight.

“We stayed together until he was a year old, to give each other support — by then I’d grown into myself. We separated, but we’ve always stayed friends. We take our role as parents very seriously and I’ve always stayed involved.

“My son was aware that I had my partner and that he was always part of my life — when we stayed in his mum’s house in

Co Mayo, we always had ‘our room’, but we didn’t tell him I was gay until he was nine.

He took it well.

“The first time one of his friends inquired about my sexuality was when he was 17. He asked the friend how he knew and he said: ‘Your dad has all the Sex and the City DVDs.’ We had a good laugh about that.

“Fatherhood is hugely important to me.

And I know my role has been equally important to him. He has two male role models, his stepfather and myself. He’s been role modelled by a gay man who is liberal and a lover of equality and diversity in the world.

Along with his mother, I’ve been instrumental in shaping who he has become.

“I know my relationship with my son is incredibly important to him. And he has grounded me in many ways I would not have been. He’s made me happier as a result.”

COMING OUT: Brian Finnegan had his son Colm, seen here as a baby with him, before he coming to terms with his own sexuality. Picture: Maura Hickey

Brian on Father’s Day: “It’s usually the same day as my birthday, so Father’s Day gets shoved to one side. But it’s good to recognise fathers.”

FRIDAY, JUNE 18, 2010

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Father’s Day

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Food gifts

11

You’re the best, dad DADDY’S GIRL: Get Father’s Day all wrapped up with thoughtful foodie gifts that won’t break the bank.

Picture: Getty Images

Roz Crowley

I

DESPITE cut-backs on spending, there’s no need to cut back on gifts for fathers on their special day. This year, make sure it not just the thought that counts, but the taste, too.

A well-chosen foodie gift can provide shared pleasure and fun. Make a few biscuits, put them in a fun mug, make a mad apron, buy long-handled tongs for the barbecue, a jug to fluff up cappuccino (Bodum make a stylish one), a salad spinner, a photograph frame, flowers and potted plants — all the things women often receive on Mother’s Day. Men can appreciate them, too.

Or give the gift of time and make a sumptuous breakfast, lunch or dinner for him.

Whatever you choose, make a card (with a voucher for chores or breakfast at home), and your love will shine through.

Fair Trade fruit chocolate and nut cookies, 180g F2.20 These biscuits are just what men like — chunky chocolate (6.5% of plain chocolate pieces), 7.5% raisins and 6% hazlenuts, which combine with quite a lot of sugar, vegetable fat and a few additives, but they are a treat for special occasions. Good to support fair trade and Oxfam, while putting a smile on dad’s sweet-toothed face.

Cheese

Marinated artichoke hearts

Hadji Bey’s Turkish Delight

Rounds of cheese make terrific gifts and I like this latest presentation of jars of cubes of Irish sheep’s cheese in olive oil.

The same idea as Boilie cheese, Knockalara comes from Cappoquin, Co Waterford, and is made with vegetarian rennet, no additives, and good extra-virgin olive oil: F5.90 for 200g. Pair with speciality crackers, such as organic, wholegrain, seeded spelt from Baking Emporium: F4.99 for 200g.

Artichoke hearts taste of summer and are used less by us in Ireland than in the rest of Europe, but make a welcome addition to salads. Pair with soft cheese, roasted peppers, grated raw courgettes.

For Father’s Day, wrap in a pretty bow with a sprig of rosemary thyme or bay leaves. Both Lidl and Aldi have good examples. F1.69 for 280g.

These deliciously rose-perfumed sweets will be familiar to over-40s from Cork, where Turkish Delight was once the height of foodie style. Made in Cork since 1902, when it was set up by an Armenian, Harutun Batmazian, it is now produced in Co Kildare and appears in speciality shops. In attractive, reusable, round boxes, fair value at F8.95 for 250g.

The Chocolate Shop, Cork’s English Market.

Foie Gras

Badger & Dodo coffee

Rosette lolly

Cookery classes

If daddy has a taste for French food, foie gras is a sophisticated treat. A small jar will go a long way, and at F7.80 for 90g, you can treat him to a bottle of sweet wine to accompany it. Choose one from Madiran in the south west of France, close to the region the liver comes from.

Les Larmes Celestes is F 15.60 for 750ml.

Foie gras and wine can be found at the Pig’s Back, Cork’s English Market.

Brock Lewin’s artisan roastery in Fermoy, Co Cork is producing excellent coffee for cafes and for sale in speciality shops and markets. A regular judge at barista competitions, this Australian knows his stuff. A packet of coffee makes a great gift and not too expensive at F 6.95 for 250g.

Instead of a card, this foil-wrapped chocolate lollipop says I’m the Best!

35% cocoa solids and more sugar than we would all like, but 28g won’t do him too much harm. F2.19 from Marks & Spencer.

At Sugar Café and Patisserie, patissier Christine Girault, pictured here, will provide a special Father’s Day class on a Thursday or Friday evening after work, for men who want to learn to make Danish pastries, brioche, chocolatines, or fruits tarts, such as French apple tart and pear and almond tart. Excellent value for F45. For details phone 0214806530. In Dungarvan, The Tannery’s barbecue classes are a treat for daddy, at www.tannery.ie.

Feelgood

FRIDAY, JUNE 18, 2010

Zone:XH

12 Medical matters

XH - V1

Q

Dr Niamh Houston

FAMILY

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Dr Niamh Houston is a GP with a special interest in integrative medicine. If you have a question about your child’s health email it to feelgood@examiner.ie or send a letter to Feelgood Irish Examiner City Quarter Lapps Quay Cork

WHAT can I do about headaches during pregnancy? I get them almost daily — my doctor says there’s nothing to worry about, and has recommended paracetamol, but I’d rather not take medication. I have heard of herbal headache remedies, such as feverfew and butterbur — are they safe to take in pregnancy?

A. You’re not at the mercy of your headaches. There’s much you can do to prevent or relieve headaches during pregnancy, besides taking medication. The most likely cause is tension due to changes in muscles and ligaments. A headache may also be linked to pain or imbalance in the back, or to tiredness or anxiety.

You may find it helpful to keep a headache diary to keep track of your meals, activities, and headaches for one to two weeks. This can help pinpoint what triggers the headaches.

Have a balanced diet and eat smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. This can keep your blood sugar on an even keel, which may help prevent headaches.

Try a daily walk, even for only 10-15 minutes, or another form of gentle aerobic exercise. Practising relaxation exercises, such as deep breathing, yoga or visualisation, will help. Consider bio-feedback. This mind-body technique can teach you to control certain bodily functions — such as heart rate, muscle tension and blood pressure, which may help prevent headaches or reduce their frequency.

Make sure you stay well-hydrated and keep to a regular sleep routine.

And beware of poor posture, as this, or muscle tension, can result in headaches, especially as weight gain occurs during pregnancy.

When a headache occurs, rest, if you can, in a quiet room with your eyes closed. Try a cold compress on the back of your neck, or a warm compress (such as a hot towel) to your face, eyes and temples. Rubbing your temples may help, or ask someone to massage your shoulders and neck.

Herbal remedies, such as fever few and butterbur, aren’t recommended during pregnancy.

Acupuncture is safe to try and may provide relief. Homeopathic remedies that are used for headaches include Natrum Mur, Bryonia, Sepia, Nux Vomica and Gelsenium. Headaches are sometimes difficult to self-prescribe — you may want to consult a homeopath.

It’s best to call your doctor if you have a sudden or extremely intense headache, particularly

A. As we get older, changes in our vision, attention and physical abilities can cause us to drive less safely.

Sometimes, these changes happen so slowly that the driver is not even aware that safety is at risk. Look for the following warning signs in her driving: drives too slowly or too quickly; often gets lost, even on familiar routes; stops at a green light or at the wrong time; doesn’t seem to notice other cars, cyclists or pedestrians on the road; is beeped at or passed often; reacts slowly to driving situations; doesn’t obey stop signs or traffic lights.

If you are concerned about your mother’s driving, talk to her and express your concerns. Explain why, and give specific reasons — for example, getting lost or breaking a red light.

Your mother may become defensive or upset — as you have mentioned, driving is important for independence and self-esteem. Don’t bring up your concerns in the car, as it is dangerous to distract the driver. If your mother doesn’t want to talk about her driving, bring it up again, later. Showing your concern and continued support will help her feel more comfortable talking about this topic.

A good place to start is to encourage your mother to visit her doctor.

He can check her medical history, list of medicines, and current health.

Picture: iStock There may be a simple and treatable explanation for the deterioration in her driving, such as cataracts. If there are any medical concerns, he may want your mother to undergo a specific driving test for the elderly.

At some point in the future, you may be faced with the reality that your mother will need to stop driving, for her own safety and that of the others on the road. You may arrive at this decision yourselves, or at the recommendation of the doctor.

Let your mother know that she has your support, and offer help willingly, if you can.

There are several things you can do to make this easier — create a transportation if it is associated with visual changes, plan to include phone numbers of friends or swelling in your legs and upper abdominal relatives who can help out with lifts — the discomfort. These can be features of high days and times they are available. Contact blood pressure and pre-eclampsia, which her local community centre or church to see needs urgent medical treatment. if they have a volunteer driver programme.

Help her shop from home and arrange for Q. I’m concerned about my elderly medicines and shopping to be delivered. mother who’s in her 70s. When I was Don’t forget to include transport to social with her, recently, in the car, she was driving erratically. I don’t know if she was activities — visiting friends and keeping spirits high are especially important during just tired, as it had been a long day, but she didn’t seem to have noticed anything this time of adjustment, as well as benefiting was wrong. I don’t want to take away her health and well-being.

■ See www.seniorcare.ie and www.friendsof independence, but how can I ensure she theelderly.ie is safe on the roads?

Practising relaxation exercises such as deep breathing, yoga or visualisation will help relieve headaches

NOTE: The information contained in Dr Houston’s column is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a doctor first

P

Catherine Shanahan MUM’S WORLD Feelgood

ACKING prowess is a gift women simply do not possess. A man can prep in 10 minutes and put everything he thinks he needs in a five-kilo bag.

A woman finds it spatially challenging and 20 kilos is never enough. She is more than happy to pick up the 15 kilos of slack unutilised by her partner.

Trying to crush two weeks’ wardrobe into a supersized suitcase can cause panic attacks.

While he settles down to Subbuteo — socks, jocks, razors, wirecutter and swiss army knife rammed into his knapsack — she is in a tizzy upstairs, trying to team shoes with skirts and handbags and weeping at having to chose between her Twin Turbo 3200 hairdryer or her mini styler GHD IV. This time around, she must cater for two kids as well and packing lists are written and rewritten to make sure nothing is forgotten.

That extra 15 kilos of comfort is no longer

there just for her. Indeed, her entire holiday attire is compromised by the clothing requirements of children seduced by grime.

She removes two of the six pairs of sandals essential to keep her in style and one of the four pairs of togs in a show of trying to make room for the children’s soft toys. She would happily leave them at home (the toys, not the children) but knows there’s no sleep without Tedzer. Her crownless Kentucky Derby giant sunhat with matching sun goddess t-shirt is forced to give way to a play shade, a kiddie tent to keep the cancer rays at bay.

She wipes away a tear as she removes two of the three bottles of after-sun bio-maple fortified treatment shampoo, enriched with ginseng and green tea, to make way for Johnson’s tearless variety. She knows there’s no point in packing 10 books — the last time she read more than a page before

FRIDAY, JUNE 18, 2010

collapsing into a sleep-starved coma, was pre 2006 — but she needs to keep up the pretense of having some stamina.

She is not looking forward to the flight and in the past would have handled the panic with a gin and a vial of valium but airport authorities and other intending passengers may not look kindly on a mother dousing herself with drugs. And so she would have to stay sober and lucid and withstand the terror of travel at 45,000ft.

She completes the cramming over a 48-hour period, having packed and unpacked more often then a drugs mule.

Sixty kilos of apparel is surely enough? And she still has her carry-on, although that may require a hoist or at least the goodwill of her children’s father.

She lies back on the bed, flogged, and prays to escape the fate of a busman’s holiday.

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Male health

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13

Stay on the ball over AS symptoms

S

AIMING HIGH: Rory Delap at the launch of the Back in Play website. Picture: David Maher / SPORTSFILE

TOKE City and former Irish international player Rory Delap, renowned for his devastating throw-in, has launched Back in Play, a campaign to raise awareness of ankylosing spondylitis (AS), a poorly understood condition which can affect the lower back.

Most common in young men, AS is a type of inflammatory arthritis. The symptoms, typically low back pain and stiffness, can be subtle and are often overlooked or confused with sports injuries or common back pain, meaning it can take as long as 11 years to be accurately diagnosed.

“Most football fans will not have heard about AS, yet statistics show that up to one in 200 will have it,” says Delap. “It is understandable that some of the symptoms like lower back pain are often written off as a sports injury or bad posture. However, there are some key subtleties such as the pain getting better with exercise and having painful, red eyes, that can indicate AS.

Deirdre O'Flynn MOSTLY MEN Test your skills with the game on the website and check out the symptoms at the same time.”

The campaign, supported by the Ankylosing Spondylitis International Federation (ASIF), includes the Back in Play website, www.back-in-play.com, funded by Pfizer, The site features a football game which tests a player’s throw-in skills while highlighting the symptoms of AS that can differentiate it from other back pain.

Visitors to the site can also watch a throw-in master class from Rory Delap, review a symptom checklist compiled by ASIF, find out more information about the condition through patient and doctor

Recession hits sport participation

New running shoes mimic natural, barefoot posture

THE recession has had a negative impact on the number of people taking part in sport, according to the annual Irish Sports Monitor report conducted by the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) for the Irish Sports Council. The report indicated that active participation in sport fell to 30.8% in 2008, from 32.9% in 2007 and the evidence strongly suggests that the drop can

A CORK company has responded to Harvard research by launching footwear that’s similar to walking barefoot. Researchers at Harvard are saying barefoot may be better than wearing shoes, provided you are on the right surface or have ‘barefoot’ protection. The study indicated that people who ran long distances ‘barefoot’ were less prone to injury than those in high-performance running shoes.

BAREFOOT.IE has brought Vibram FiveFingers shoes, pictured, to Ireland. The shoes are causing a shift in running and sport, says

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be attributed to people no longer being in a position to pay gym or club membership fees.

“Many people are put off physical activity because they believe that only vigorous exercise, actively attending a gym or playing sport counts as healthy activity,” said Sarah O’Neill, occupational health advisor (RGN, RM, OHA) with Quinn Healthcare.

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SUN SMART: Taking adequate sun protection creams is a no brainer, because even on dull days, the sun can burn sensitive Irish skin. For naturally sun-kissed skin try Oy! Soft Glow Gradual Tan, F14.95, from natural skincare company Green People.

Scented with mandarin, orange and vanilla and containing 85% certified organic ingredients, it feeds young skin with prebiotics and omega fatty acids to build up a healthy golden glow naturally. It’s suitable for all skin types, even sensitive and acne-prone skin, and is available from health stores, pharmacies and online from www.naturalselection.ie.

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Owen Loughrey, MD, BAREFOOT.IE. “Our bodies are naturally perfect in design, and not flawed: Vibram FiveFingers shoes allow our feet to take back full functional control when hiking, running, weight training, fitness, kayaking, sailing, yoga, or just simply living.”

Loughrey began wearing Vibram FiveFingers after reading about the biomechanical benefits of going barefoot.

He found the shoes prevented the shin splints he suffered when running and decided to share the ‘cure’ by retailing the shoes online and through select retail outlets.

interviews and explore links to patient support groups.

Most commonly, but not exclusively, found in young men, AS symptoms typically start in the late teens and early 20s, causing severe, chronic pain and discomfort.

While there is no cure for AS, Dr Alexander Fraser, consultant rheumatologist at Limerick Regional Hospital, says it can be well managed.

“There are now several effective treatment options available for AS,” says Dr Fraser.

“Treatments aim to reduce pain and stiffness, to preserve and improve function and ultimately to prevent damage. These treatments include expert physiotherapy which has been the traditional cornerstone of therapy, the conventional anti-inflammatory drugs and in the past few years the newer biologic drugs, which are highly effective, have revolutionised the treatment of severe AS and transformed the lives of many sufferers.”

DId you know...

Vitamin B helps to reduce risk of lung cancer Source: Journal of the American Medical Association

Outdoor festival essentials SURVIVAL GUIDE: Boots has put together a list of must haves for the festival campsite. Running water is likely to be in short supply so Boots suggest taking cleansing wipes, anti-bacterial hand wipes, mouthwash instead of toothpaste and dry shampoo to help you stay clean and fresh.

Try Boots Essentials Cucumber Wipes, F3.49, Boots Anti-bacterial hand wipes, F1.59, Boots Smile Totalcare Mouthwash Coolmint F2.99, or Boots Expert Dry Shampoo F2.99. Fend off nasty creepy crawlies with Boots Repel Insect Repellent Natural Citrepel 75, F10.49. Its scientifically proven formulation is soothing and moisturising, offering protection against mosquitoes, midges and other unwanted biting insects and creatures. Designed to be used in non-tropical areas, Boots say this is the ideal remedy for Irish campsites.

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NATURAL TREATS: Natural skincare range Burt’s Bees have also put together a list of must-haves for outdoor adventures this summer. Burt’s Bees Festival Check List includes All-In-One-Wash, F5.95, Sun Protecting Lip Balm, F4.95 and Natural Hand Sanitiser, F6.95. Burt’s Bees Res-Q Ointment, F6.95, comes in a handy tin and helps to soothe bumps and bruises.

The natural herbal formula contains comfrey and allantoin, known for their healing and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as lavandin, which helps prevent scarring. Apply to bites, stings, cuts and grazes.

The Burt’s Bees range is available from health stores and selected pharmacies nationwide.

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HANGOVER CURE: Milk Thistle is a useful herbal remedy for an over-worked liver. A Vogel Milk Thistle Complex contains five herbs traditionally used to detoxify and protect the liver. These include artichoke, milk thistle and dandelion, with support herbs boldo and peppermint which help to quell the nausea and indigestion that can follow after over indulgence. Milk Thistle Complex costs F10.50 for 50ml, F18.50 for 100ml, or F12.55 for 60 tincture tablets and is available from health stores and some pharmacies.

For stockists visit www.avogel.ie.

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14 Beauty gifts

Emily O’Sullivan

When it comes to a Father’s Day gift, it’s best to follow the traditional route

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COUPLE of weeks ago, an intriguing product arrived on my desk — ab firming gel. I brought it home and handed it to my husband. He laughed. When I asked him would he test it for me, he laughed again, and then threw it back to me with a look that said “absolutely no way”.

Men may have come a long way since the day of cut-throat razors and Old Spice, but where toiletries are concerned, there is still a line many refuse to cross. Of course, for certain age groups things have changed enormously over the past 20 years. A large number of men under 50 will now wear a moisturiser or use a face scrub, they’ll most certainly wish to use shaving products from good-quality brands which make the shaving experience more pleasant — they might even give an eye cream a try.

Though the marketing of male skincare products continues to increase, most men tend not to bother with the likes of false tan, face masks, and, well, ab firming gel.

The bottom line is that most men just don’t care that much, and they don’t have the will to keep up complicated regimes. They also don’t believe the hype. When faced with an ab firming gel, my husband simply couldn’t be bothered because he had no faith that it would actually work. This ultimate lack of vanity (or fear of looking vain) mixed with a healthy scepticism is one of the reasons that the men’s toiletries market seems to have trouble moving beyond skincare and shaving products.

A report commissioned by research company Mintel in 2008 revealed that men are starting to widen their beauty repertoire and embrace the idea of looking after their skin, but they still lag far behind women when it comes to range of skincare products and rate of purchase.

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It’s a guy thing

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Allure Homme by Chanel THE men’s fragrance market can be a dizzying place, with a mind-boggling array of scents vying for attention. No more after-shave for today’s men, eau de toilette is where it’s at. Chanel’s Allure Homme range is a crisp and clean scent with a sophisticated edge, and, for Father’s Day, the brand is launching three limited edition, 150ml bottles. Choose from Allure Homme eau de toilette, F89, Allure Homme Sport eau de toilette, F89, and Allure Homme Edition Blanche eau de toilette, F93.

TAKE THREE FACE SCRUBS They call them face scrubs, we call them exfoliators. Whatever you call it, it basically has the same function: to get rid of dead skin cells and help keep your skin soft, smooth and free of build-ups.

Clinique Skin Supplies for Men Face Scrub, F20. Men like Clinique products because of their unfussy packaging and effectiveness. This is one of their best — a chunky face scrub with rounded granules that are hearty without being scratchy to slough off dullness, as well help reduce ingrown hairs.

Score: 10

Picture: Chanel Allure Homme Sport

Trends that were talked up as being a big deal a few years ago — men’s mascara and manicures — never crossed over into the mainstream. Not only that but the overly groomed look sported by the likes of David Beckham and Cristiano Ronaldo is starting to look hyper-vain, insanely smooth and deeply contrived.

So if you’ve been flirting with the idea of getting your dad an eyebrow reshape or a spray tan for Father’s Day, then now might be the time to think again. Playing it safe is the way to go. And while skincare is definitely the acceptable face of the men’s toiletries industry, do you really want to go out and buy your dad an anti-ageing moisturiser with vitamin E, or would he prefer something a little more traditional?

The good news is that the shaving industry is booming. Men are a lot more open to beauty products that are packaged under the shaving banner and there are some good suit-

ably masculine-looking products out there from the likes of Clarins, Clinique, L’Oreal, Origins, Lancôme, Boots and Origins.

If you’re looking for something that will really make a difference to your dad’s shave then there are a few things to bear in mind.

Men’s skin is oilier than women’s, so ideally they should be washing their face every day and particularly before a shave. A face wash is great for keeping pores clear while a face scrub can also make a difference to the quality of the shave by removing dead skin and preventing ingrown hairs.

Whether you’re going for a cream, gel or foam (creams are widely judged to be the best), or an old-school shaving brush and traditional razor, balms and moisturisers do make a difference to men’s skin. Rich, soothing balms can help ease the redness, irritation and burning sensations caused by shaving and nourish, protect and hydrate the skin throughout the day.

product, aftercare product and face wash and are on sale for F7 less than the usual price. If you don’t fancy going for a pack, then try Vichy’s new Sensi-Baume Mineral Ca, F17, a fortifying and soothing after-shave balm that revealed a 60% reduction in redness and a 62% reduction in irritation in clinical trials.

Super Close Shave Formula is one of the company’s bestsellers. It gives a great shave without irritation and contains antiseptic and botanical extracts to refresh and soothe skin.

Dermalogica Daily Microfoliant, F46. This received a “Highly Commended” award from Men’s Health in 2009 and it’s not even a product that’s directly targeted at men.

Thankfully, the neutral packaging does not cause men to run a mile. And it is a very effective product — a rice-based powder that activates on contact with water and is gentle enough for sensitive skins to use. It is expensive, though.

Score: 8 The Body Shop For Men Maca Root Face Scrub, F14.55. Maca root, in case you’ve never heard of it, is apparently known for its energising properties and is also one of the latest hit “superfoods”.

The Body Shop, say it has harnessed its powers in a skincare range. This face scrub is decently priced and pleasant to use.

Score: 8

STUFF WE LIKE L’Oreal Men Expert Hydra Sensitive Quenching Effect Post-Shave Balm, F8.49. Battling the feeling of dryness and tightness post-shave, L’Oreal’s Quenching Effect is also a good bet to combat the effects of razor burn and shave-related irritations.

Vichy Homme Boosting Kit and Soothing Kit, F20. Whether you want to soothe sensitive skin or boost dehydrated skin, this is a good way to do it. Each kit contains a shaving

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Baxter of California Super Close Shave Formula, F21.95. Launched back in 1965 in Beverley Hills, Baxters of California was one of the first skincare line on the block. These days, the range is still, hip, effective and cutting-edge and this

Men’s Origins Shaving Soother: Fire Fighter, F21.50.

It might not shout as loudly as some other men’s ranges, but Origins for Men delivers a small but effective range of products. This Fire Fighter is nicely packaged in a frosted dark green bottle, and contains soothing chamomile, cucumber and winterbloom

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to calm things down.

Clinique Post Shave Healer, F23. Clinique’s award-winning after-shave treatment is a favourite among a lot of men we know.

It’s a good-quality, solid product that uses aloe to combat razor burn and relieve dryness.

Clarins Skin Difference, F41.

Don’t miss this pre-shave product and “skin conditioner” (read moisturiser) in one. Clarins’s effective Skin Difference is a light serum designed to be applied at night to make shaving easier and quicker the morning after.

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Q Megan Sheppard Do you have a question for Megan Sheppard?

Email it to feelgood@examiner.ie or send a letter to Feelgood Irish Examiner City Quarter Lapps Quay Cork

DRINK UP: Deciding which kind of water is best for us can be confusing.

I AM confused as to which is the healthiest — tap or bottled water? I use a filter jug for tap water which I drink mostly and buy bottled water when I’m out and about. I’ve read negative things about both. Are there any machines that would make the water safer to drink? I’ve heard reverse osmosis is supposed to make water safer but, again, I’ve heard negative comments about this too. I have three young children and am conscious of them drinking healthy water and also mindful of the fact that they need fluoride. I don’t have very healthy teeth so I’d like us to have fluoride somehow.

A. The water issue is indeed a confusing one, and each expert will have a different opinion. Grander water, Wellness water, reverse osmosis (RO), steam distilled… the list goes on and on. Some people are also confident that straight tap water is completely fine. I think that when it comes to water, work out what is important to you, decide on your budget for water equipment, and go from there.

I opted for a reverse osmosis system.

While not perfect, it is cost-effective, and removes the fluoride and chlorine from tap water. It is also easy to install yourself and can be relocated easily if you shift house. It does create a lot of ‘waste’ water, which can be used to water your fruit trees or lawn. I must admit, nothing tastes quite as good as the tap water from my hometown of Christchurch in New Zealand (where the water comes from underground aquifers and requires no treatment), but Grander, Wellness and RO all come pretty close.

A filter jug or tap filter is a step in the right direction, and while it does not remove fluoride from the water, it certainly is an affordable option for most people. You mention that you would prefer to have your children drink fluoridated water, so perhaps a filter is the right choice for your family.

Naturally occurring fluoride in water is very different to sodium fluoride, the by-product of aluminium production which is added to the water supply. It is important to consider that while the amount added to water is deemed safe by authorities, this is based on an average amount of water consumption assessed during the 1940s. It would be safe to say that we are more conscious of water consumption today and tend to drink more water, not to mention the fact that we also use this same water in food preparation, cooking, growing our food, beverages, bathing, and fluoride is also added to most toothpaste.

Even toothpaste manufacturers themselves

Picture: iStock

have admitted that a typical family-sized tube of toothpaste contains enough fluoride to theoretically kill a 25lb child. Excess sodium fluoride is linked with Alzheimer’s, dementia, cancer, arthritis, osteoporosis, muscular dystrophy, and lupus.

Q. I am taking magnesium citrate (200mg per day) for the past 18 months for aching legs and it is working a treat.

Can I stay on this indefinitely or is long-term consumption of it dangerous?

A. Magnesium citrate has been shown to help with muscle and nerve functioning, and in much larger doses is used as a short-term laxative solution. With such a low dose of this supplement, it is unlikely that you would have issues with long-term supplementation.

It is wise to take regular breaks in such a case, even taking one day off each week will help — for example, choose to keep each Sunday as your day of no supplementation.

It is important to monitor your own wellbeing while supplementing with vitamins and/or minerals, since an excess can do just as much damage as a deficiency. While taking note of how you feel physically, mentally, and emotionally is one way to measure wellbeing, it is subjective and often untimely.

Our bodies can get quite out of balance before we notice it, and what feels normal for one person may seem unbearable to another.

Megan puts the spotlight on:

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ITH a flower head reminiscent of the summer sun, and a seed head seemingly designed by garden fairy folk to delight children, the dandelion is so much more than a common weed. It has a wide range of healing properties and fortunately is commonly found.

The main actions of the dandelion (taraxacum officinale) are as a diuretic, bitter tonic, and detoxifying herb.

The leaves help with fluid retention, which in turn helps to reduce blood pressure. Dandelion leaves are also high in potassium, whereas most conventional diuretics

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typically leach potassium from the system. If you are using the leaves, be sure to pick the young tender ones which are tastier than older leaves.

The bitter principle points to the beneficial effect on the digestive system and the liver, stimulating the production of bile in the gallbladder. Both the root and the leaves have a preventative action against gallstones, with the leaves often being used to dissolve existing gallstones.

Dandelion root is a popular detoxifying herb, working mainly on the liver and gallbladder to facilitate the removal of wastes and toxins. This means it can be useful in a number of conditions where

Better to keep on top of your health by checking the status of your blood. Ask your health practitioner to perform full blood tests (what this consists of typically varies depending on the willingness of your practitioner and your age, sex, health status etc.), and use these results to see what is really going on inside your body. Since your blood works to deliver nutrients and oxygen throughout your body and remove wastes, it makes sense to work at keeping your blood healthy.

It may be worth considering how much magnesium you can glean from your diet. A few simple changes might be all it takes to get enough of this important mineral, and avoid the issue of needing long-term supplementation.

Cocoa is very high in magnesium, containing around 520mg per 100g (which is part of the reason why women crave chocolate during their pre-menstrual phase — magnesium eases cramping), spinach is also magnesium-rich, however the oxalates present in cocoa and leafy greens is thought to reduce the availability of magnesium.

Other foods high in bioavailable magnesium — from 130mg/100g up to 770mg /100g — include seaweeds, nuts, seeds, cereals, beans, most herbs and herb seeds (such as celery seeds, cumin seeds, poppy seeds, coriander, cardamom), sundried tomatoes, figs, apricots, prunes, and seafoods.

Dandelion — the healing weed the body is attempting to eliminate toxins through various channels — such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, constipation, flatulence, osteoarthritis and gout.

Herbalists who use the doctrine of signatures will note the important aspects of the dandelion are the yellow colour of the flowers, the bitter and slightly salty taste of the leaves, and the sweet taste of the petals. I have already discussed the bitter principle, and the slight saltiness indicates the presence of minerals — the yellow colour suggests an effect on the stomach, liver, pancreas, kidneys and adrenals and can often indicate an association with healing melancholy states (think of the bright yellow flowers of St John’s Wort) — the sweet taste of the petals suggests they benefit pancreatic health.

One thing to note with dandelions is there are many imposters about. True

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dandelions have a single flower arising from each hollow stem, and the leaves grow in a rosette from the root. The leaves themselves are hairless, smooth and toothed in shape.

Enjoy the leaves raw or cooked, especially mixed with other greens. The petals make a lovely addition to salads separated from the bracts, which are very bitter.

Dandelion root is a popular detoxifying herb

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