Wellness News Winter 2014 by Cancer Support WA

winter 2014

Vol. 30 No.2

celebrating 30 years

of supporting and empowering people with cancer, their families and the community

24 Hour Cancer Support Line (08) 9384 3544

www.cancersupportwa.org.au

wellness news Wellness News is published by Cancer Support WA and distributed free to members. Wellness News is dedicated entirely to publishing informative, inspiring and helpful articles related to wellness and healing. The magazine is for people with cancer and other serious health issues; for people who want to maintain their good health naturally; and for integrative and natural health professionals who are looking for a deeper understanding of wellness.

production Editor & Design Mandy BeckerKnox mandy@cancersupportwa.org.au Advertising/Sponsorship Katie Payne adam@cancersupportwa.org.au printing iPrintPlus

art

artwork featured on the cover is by Louise Benton of Anahata Creations.

contact

e info@cancersupportwa.org.au ph (08) 9384 3544 f 9384 6196 a 80 Railway St Cottesloe WA p PO Box 325 Cottesloe WA 6911

social media

www.cancersupportwa.org.au Facebook: Cancer Support WA Twitter: CSAWA1

disclaimer The contents of this magazine should not be construed as medical advice. Cancer Support WA encourages readers to be discerning with information presented and make treatment, dietary and lifestyle choices in consultation with a team of health-care professionals. © Copyright of all articles and images remains with individual contributors.

why healing is what we do Dear members and friends, On our life journey there are some experiences which teach us profound lessons which stay with us for life, shaping our attitudes, beliefs and behaviours. It was my first trip to India and exposure to the unbelievable suffering of others as an unworldly 20 year old which opened my mind and heart to two powerful life lessons: 1. The suffering amongst humanity is immense and is mainly caused by our beliefs and self-interested behaviour. 2. We all have a part to play in creating the change which leads to happiness and healing – particularly those of us blessed with being born into circumstances where we are educated, nurtured and celebrated. My early training in yoga took me to Bihar, the poorest part of rural India where a large aspect of our education was learning to be of service by replacing a mindset of ‘the world is here for me’ to ‘I am here for the world’. This involved volunteering in local villages and their schools and orphanages where poverty, violence, malnutrition and a lack of opportunity were reality. The suffering and circumstances were heart breaking. Regardless, I chose to look and feel and do what I could rather than turn away. It was these early lessons which compelled me to choose to live in a way which contributes to peace as opposed to living in a way which perpetuates suffering. When we realise the only difference between the impoverished, illiterate mother in a shanty town on the other side of the globe and any one of us reading this from the comfort of our own home is circumstance, we come to understand just how blessed we are to be having this particular experience in this moment and that the most meaningful way to express this gratitude is to extend our love and care to everyone we meet and know – and even those we don’t. 24 years have passed since the photo above was taken and I can say from my own experience of life, that even if we are suffering ourselves, an attitude of giving and generosity is literally what creates personal happiness and abundance – the more we give without expectation of return, the more blessings we receive! I look at what we have created here at Cancer Support WA as a case demonstrating this point. At its core, Cancer Support WA is a service organisation dedicated to uplifting and bringing healing to people with cancer and the community. Everything we do, every program we offer, every word we print is offered with the intention of making a contribution to the healing and wellbeing of humanity. In return the organisation is supported through the kindness and goodwill of the community. Many clients tell us that for them, cancer was a turning point or catalyst propelling their lives forward in new ways which lead to profound experiences of understanding and healing. While it is a challenge, cancer is potentially one of those learning experiences put our way to deepen our appreciation of life. It is our hope that this edition of Wellness News contributes to this journey of discovery and peace.

Mandy BeckerKnox Chief Executive Officer

Cancer Support WA is a Western Australian cancer wellness organisation directly supporting people through every stage of every type of cancer. For almost 30 years, Cancer Support WA has helped and supported thousands of West Australians with cancer to achieve wellness and healing. Cancer Support WA is a pioneer of the “wellness approach” to cancer which integrates wellbeing therapies such as nutrition, exercise and meditation with mainstream treatment.

Information

• Library & Resource Centre • Meeting the Challenge Handbook • Cancer Care Packs • Wellness News magazine • Moss Reports • Referral Network

Wellness • • • • • • • •

Taking Charge of Cancer Seminar 1 Day Cancer Wellness Workshop 5 Week Wellness Courses Guest Speaker Program Inspired Living Series Regular Classes and Sessions Reiki Clinic Retreats

Cancer in its acute stages can require intensive medical focus and care. When medical treatment ends you may be left wondering ‘what now?’ and feeling quite alone. At Cancer Support WA we are here to help you. We know it’s what you do for yourself that matters most now and we are here to support you to manage cancer, implement change and help you restore your wellbeing, peace of mind and health. Our courses and programs provide you with the tools to bring about meaningful change. After just a few weeks of yoga, meditation, optimum nutrition and high quality emotional support you start to feel better. Beyond this, you’ll notice the more you commit to a new wellness lifestyle, the more you benefit. This results in three things: you start to take charge of your own journey, you discover the power to effect change is within you, and seeing the positive effects of change gives you hope. And hope itself is healing.

Support

• Support Groups – Cancer Wellness Support Group – Grief & Loss Support Group – Women’s Healing Circle • Counselling • Home and Hospital visits • Reiki and Meditation Outreach Program • Mentoring & buddy program • 24 hour cancer support phone line • Financial counselling • Advance care planning

Community

• Annual Concert & Events • Healthy Habits Week • You Are Beautiful Exhibition • Meeting of the Minds • Adventure Travel Program Cover Art: Louise Benton, Anahata Creations. Louise Benton is a visionary Artist based in Darwin, Northern Australia. Louise defines Visionary Art as art that comes from dreams and visions communicated by the elemental realms and cosmic forces. These visions are channelled through the artist to give inspiration and insight to the greater community... a connection to the unseen and unmanifest realms creating pathways out of the mundane towards a realisation of our greater unlimited selves.

what’s on

at Cancer Support WA Cancer Support WA’s 2014 Program has been be mailed to all of our members. You can download it from our website at www.cancersupportwa.org.au or phone our 24 hour Cancer Support Phone Line (08) 9384 3544 to have a copy posted to you.

Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

INTRODUCTION

remember, healing is always possible...

about mind-body healing integrative therapies inspiring personal stories inspirations lifestyle & environment nutrition & recipes current news & information About Wellness News Wellness News magazine is the quarterly print magazine of Cancer Support WA. Wellness News is unique in that it is an extremely positive, uplifting, intelligent and beautiful publication focusing on wellness, healing and natural and complementary approaches to managing cancer. Wellness News is designed to offer hope and life-enhancing wellness strategies for people who have cancer or may be seriously ill, and a broad spectrum of information for people interested in maintaining good health. Wellness News articles are commissioned or sourced from well regarded journals, publications and websites and are divided into seven key areas including: mind-body healing; integrative therapies; nutrition and recipes; personal stories; lifestyle and environment; current news & information; inspirations. Cancer Support WA encourages a holistic and integrative approach to cancer care which includes a balance of medical treatment, complementary therapies, optimum nutrition, emotional and stress management, and lifestyle changes. The articles published in Wellness News address these areas of wellbeing, and are not intended as medical advice. We recommend that before you embark on any non-medical treatment options you consult with your primary medical care givers.

Cancer Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au

contents...

news & information Cancer Support WA membership information. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6 2014 Weekly Timetable. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. 7 New blood test predicts breast cancer risk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Vitamin D linked to enhanced breast cancer survival . . .. . .. . .. . .. 9 Wellness festival and conference . . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . 11 New in the Cancer Support WA library . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33 5 week wellness courses. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. 43

mind-body healing Reconnecting with the laws of nature. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . The power of rest: the upside of downtime . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The rule of naps . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Healing through dream work . . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. How to use dream work therapy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Healing the child within. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Support and kindness leads us towards healing. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . The power of micro-meditation . . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . ..

22 26 27 30 32 34 39 41

personal stories A wonderfully, fulfilling life (even with cancer). . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Walking for wellness . . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . 54

inspirations Awakening . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 Inner peace in a conflicted world . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29 Mindfulness...how it works. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

CONTENTS

integrative therapies Integrative cancer care for the whole person. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . The matrix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . BRCA, epigenetics and cancer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Natural ways to counter the BRCA1 mutation. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . Maintaining optimism after a cancer diagnosis. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. Learning to advocate for yourself to get the support you need . . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. .

12 14 18 21 42 45

The Open Heart Mandala Radiates qualities of peacefulness and openness; the heart fills with love, giving and acceptance. Artist: Eitan Kedmay

lifestyle & environment Dr Lodiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s formula to stop making cancer. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . 17 What city slickers can learn from bush dwellers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Top 12 ways to make your home a cancer free zone . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

nutrition & food Clear difference between organic and non-organic food, study finds. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Why people choose organic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 spice vs 14 drugs (who wins?) . . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. Slow food for winter wellness. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . ..

48 49 50 52

recipes Golden milk: creamy turmeric and ginger tea. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . Healing barley soup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Adzuki bean casserole. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. . .. Curried vegetable and chickpea stew. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

51 52 53 53

Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

Cancer Support WA membership tiers

join online www.cancersupportwa.org.au, in person or phone (08) 9384 3544

Standard membership is $5* per month

Wellness Club Membership is $30 per month

$30 payable 6 monthly or $60 payable annually

$30 payable monthly or $360 annually

What you get

A place on Cancer Support WA’s Meeting the Challenge 1 Day Seminar (value $100)

ALL THE BENEFITS OF STANDARD MEMBERSHIP PLUS...

Access to these support services at no charge: • counselling (value $50 per session) • home and hospital visits (value $75 per session) • phone counselling

Free attendance at all Cancer Support WA weekly classes (taichi, reiki, qigong, yoga, meditation – value $10 per session)

• Free 1 year subscription to the quarterly Wellness News print magazine (value $40) Cancer Support WA Library Card for borrowing 1000’s of books and resources from our library. New titles monthly. Online/postal borrowing is available for members from our website (4 week loans). 15% discount on all Cancer Support WA programmed activities and services 10% discount on all Cancer Support WA’s Wellness Shop products including juicers Access to the full series of The Moss Reports

Free attendance at Cancer Support WA’s courses** • 5 week Journey to Wellness Course (value $150) • 5 week Healing Foods for Cancer Course (value $150) • 5 week Yoga Healing Course (value $80) • 5 week Introduction to Meditation Course (value $80) • 5 week Create a Healthy Home Course (value $150) • 12 week Gawler Foundation Cancer Healing & Wellbeing Course (value $400) additional 10% discount on all Cancer Support WA wellness program and services not included in the Services Package (ie 25% total discount) additional 10% discount on all Cancer Support WA Wellness Shop products including juicers (ie 20% total discount) Monthly Wellness Coaching (phone or in person)

* Free counselling sessions are limited to 1 free session per week, fee payable for additional sessions ** Free attendance at courses is limited to 1 free course at any one time

FREE for members

Meeting the Challenge

1 Day Cancer Wellness Workshop

Our powerful, informative 1 Day Cancer Wellness Workshop is the first big step on your cancer wellness journey. The workshop is suitable for anyone who has been diagnosed with cancer and their partners or carers looking for balanced, holistic information on how best to meet the challenges of cancer and integrate wellness strategies, nutrition and natural healthcare into a cancer wellness plan to get your life on track. 1st Friday of each month at Cancer Support WA. 9.30am-4.30pm. Next programs: 5th Sept, 3rd Oct. Includes morning tea. Book online: www.cancersupportwa.org.au

Cancer Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au

TIMETABLE

Please check website before attending as venues and times may change Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

9.00am – 4pm Counselling Sessions available

10am – 12pm Cancer Wellness Support Group

9.00am – 4pm Counselling Sessions available

9.30am – 4pm Counselling Sessions available

9.30am – 11am Meditation

12 – 1.30pm Reiki Clinic

9.00 – 10am Gentle Healing Yoga

11am – 12am Tai Chi

1.30 – 3.30pm 5 Week Journey to Wellness Course

9.30 – 11am Gentle Healing Yoga

1 – 3pm Grief and Loss Support Group Second and fourth Thursday

7pm – 8.15pm Reiki Clinic

1pm – 4pm Counselling Sessions available 4 – 6pm Sound Healing 3rd Tuesday of each month 6 – 8pm Special Guest Speaker 1st Tuesday of each month

Cancer Support WA 80 Railway St, Cottesloe

10.00 – 12pm Women’s Healing Circle Free 1pm – 3.30pm 12 Week Gawler Foundation Program 1.30pm – 3.00pm Qi Gong

1.30 – 3.30pm 5 Week Eating for Cancer Recovery Course

Friday 9.30am – 4.30pm 1 Day Meeting the Challenge Cancer Wellness Workshop 1st Friday of each month 9.00am – 4pm Counselling Sessions available

4pm – 5pm 5 Week Introduction to Meditation Course 5pm – 6pm 5 Week Healing Yoga Course

5–7pm Taking Charge of Cancer Once a month. Check venues on website

Cottesloe Civic Centre 109 Broome St, Cottesloe

Located centrally in Cottesloe, Cancer Support WA is on the grounds of Wanslea, also housing North Cottesloe Primary School.

Located 2 minutes from Cancer Support WA, the Cottesloe Civic Centre is located in tranquil grounds overlooking the sea.

Nearest main intersection: Eric St. Nearest train station: Grant St 15 minutes from Fremantle 20 minutes from CBD (by car)

Kookaburra Creek Yoga Centre 210 Carradine Rd, Bedfordale

Kookaburra Creek Yoga Centre is a serene and peaceful centre in the hills outside Armadale. Nearest intersection: Albany Hwy. Nearest train station: Armadale 5 minutes from Armadale 40 minutes from Fremantle 40 minutes from CBD (by car)

Cost: all listings on the timetable including counselling are FREE for Wellness Club members. Counselling is free for Standard members. Other venues. Check 2014 program.

Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

WEEKLY TIMETABLE

Monday

weekly timetable

in the news...

New blood test predicts breast cancer risk Scientists find an epigenetic signature that can predict whether women without BRCA gene mutations will develop breast cancer later in life.

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women, with women having a one in eight chance of developing breast cancer. One way to predict who will develop breast cancer is to test for mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which can increase a woman’s chances of developing cancer to as high as 85 percent.

An Epigenetic Difference To find an epigenetic signature linked to breast cancer, the scientists examined a large group of blood samples from women with a certain cancer-causing BRCA1 mutation. Among the women who went on to develop breast cancer, they found that a certain gene cluster was methylated.

However, BRCA mutations only account for about 10 percent of all cases of breast cancer. So how can doctors predict breast cancer the other 90 percent of the time? Scientists are going beyond mammograms and genetic tests to develop a blood test that can predict which women will develop breast cancer years in advance.

The genes in question are involved in helping stem cells to differentiate. Stem cells can divide endlessly and become any type of cell the body might need. If this process goes awry and these super-cells start working against the body instead of for it, the result is cancer. Although the exact process is unknown, methylation of these genes is linked to higher rates of cancer.

Genome, Epigenome In a paper published in Genome Medicine, a team of researchers from University College London (UCL) found an epigenetic signature that is associated with all breast cancer cases, not just those that are linked to a BRCA mutation. “We identified an epigenetic signature in women with a mutated BRCA1 gene that was linked to increased cancer risk and lower survival rates,” said Professor Martin Widschwendter, the study’s lead author and head of UCL’s Department of Women’s Cancer, in a press release. “Surprisingly, we found the same signature in large cohorts of women without the BRCA1 mutation and it was able to predict breast cancer risk several years before diagnosis.” Although your DNA, called the genome, determines what proteins your body’s cells can produce, you also have an epigenome, a series of molecules that attach themselves to your DNA to increase or decrease the activity of specific genes. The most well-studied form of epigenetics is methylation, in which environmental factors cause methyl groups to bond to DNA. Usually, the methyl groups bond with the promoter region of a gene, a set of DNA at the beginning of the gene that instructs the cell to turn the gene on. Methyl groups tend to downregulate genes, meaning that if a promoter normally instructed a gene to express itself 20 times, a methylated gene might only express itself 10 times instead. In humans, most epigenetic changes occur during fetal development and early childhood, and they are influenced by any number of environmental factors.

Cancer Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au

But the real question was, do women without a BRCA1 mutation who go on to develop cancer also have these same methylated genes? The researchers were surprised to discover that they do. Widschwendter’s team isn’t yet sure whether the methylated DNA is one of the factors that directly causes breast cancer, or if the methyl signature is just a handy biomarker. Still, his team’s research could be part of a new wave of early breast cancer detection. “The data is encouraging since it shows the potential of a blood based epigenetic test to identify breast cancer risk in women without known predisposing genetic mutations,” he said. F From: www.healthline.com, 1st July, 2014. By Rachel Barclay

The blood test is still in the “trial phase” and not currently avaialable in Western Australia. Further research needs to be done to find out whether this epigenetic signature is just an indicator of breast cancer risk or is involved with the progression of breast cancer. Work is now proceeding on using these findings in the clinical setting. Genetic Services of Western Australia (GSWA) is the sole provider of clinical genetic services in Western Australia. GSWA provides a state-wide service and telemedicine and telephone counselling where appropriate. To find out more about their familial cancer program and services: www.kemh.health.wa.gov.au/services/ genetics/

NEWS & INFORMATION

Vitamin D linked to enhanced breast cancer survival Women with high levels of vitamin D in their blood when they are diagnosed with breast cancer are almost twice as likely to survive as those with low levels of vitamin D, according to a meta-analysis published in the March issue of Anticancer Research. The meta-analysis looked at 5 studies of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D) that reported hazard ratios for mortality from breast cancer by quintiles of the vitamin. Combined, the studies involved 4443 patients with breast cancer. Over an average of 10 years, breast cancer mortality was 44% lower in patients in the quintile with the highest levels of serum 25(OH)D than in the quintile with the lowest levels. For the 5 studies, the pooled hazard ratio summarizing the estimated risk for breast cancer mortality in the lowest quintile, compared with the highest quintile, was 0.56 (P < .0001). In 3 of the studies, fatality rates were substantially lower in the highest quintile than in the lowest quintile. In 2 of the studies, there was a trend in that direction. “Doctors should emphasize the importance of maintaining adequate serum vitamin D levels, which would be 40 to 60 ng/mL for cancer prevention, and encourage their patients to have their vitamin D status regularly checked, especially in winter, to ensure that adequate serum levels are being maintained,” said first author Sharif B. Mohr, MD, from the Naval Health Research Center in San Diego. For women already diagnosed with breast cancer, vitamin D levels could go as high as 80 ng/ mL, he told Medscape Medical News.

Women with high levels of vitamin D in their blood when they are diagnosed with breast cancer are almost twice as likely to survive as those with low levels of vitamin D, according to a metaanalysis published this year in Anticancer Research.

Studies have already established that vitamin D prevents breast and colon cancer, “so every adult should ensure that they maintain adequate serum levels of vitamin D, either through moderate sun exposure or by taking vitamin D3 supplements,” he said. A previous study of Canadian women with breast cancer found that those who had very low levels of vitamin D when they were diagnosed were more likely to have aggressive disease, as previously reported by Medscape Medical News. In fact, women with very low levels of vitamin D at diagnosis were 94% more likely to develop metastases than women with normal levels, and were 73% more likely to die. Vitamin D Stops Tumour Growth “Vitamin D makes cells stick together, particularly breast epithelial cells, by producing upregulation of the synthesis of E-cadherin,” senior author Cedric F. Garland, DrPH, from the Department of Family and Preventive Medicine at the University of California, San Diego, told Medscape Medical News. “If the vitamin D level gets low, the cells of the breast epithelium don’t adhere to each other, and when a cell is not tightly adherent to its neighbors, its stem cells undergo rapid mitosis,” Dr. Garland explained. “The cells that reproduce the fastest can produce a cancerous clone, which can ultimately penetrate the basal membrane. If the vitamin D deficiency continues, those cells will get out into the lymphatics, metastasize to the brain, bone, and lungs, and kill the patient.” continued on next page...

Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

IN THE NEWS

“Doctors should measure vitamin D levels in their breast cancer patients. If they are deficient they should be started immediately [on supplements]”

ne FREE for anyoosed newly diagn

the cancer care pack The Cancer Care Pack is a valuable resource for people in WA diagnosed with cancer. Thanks to generous donations received from our supporters, the Cancer Care Pack valued at more than $200 is available for free to anyone newly diagnosed. Each Cancer Care Pack contains: • Gift Card for major retailer • Beautiful plain dyed 100% silk scarf to wear during the period of hair loss or to simply bring colour and comfort. • Book: Living Simply with Cancer by Ross Taylor. An invaluable resource written by an author who beat a diagnosis of terminal melanoma. • Meeting the Challenge Cancer Wellness Handbook for People Diagnosed with Cancer. • Relaxation and Meditation CD by Cathy Brown. An aid to help restore peace and wellbeing. • Gift Voucher to attend 1 Day Cancer Wellness Workshop for People Newly Diagnosed. • 2 Wellness News magazines. • Cancer Support WA Program & Information. If you or a family member or friend have been diagnosed with cancer recently, please get in touch to receive a Cancer Care Pack. Call our 24 hour Cancer Support Phone Line on (08) 9384 3544 to order a pack now.

Cancer Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au

However, “with a lot of vitamin D, the cells are self-adherent and never evolve into a cancer,” he noted. “If it’s late in the history and they have evolved into a cancer, it will be a well-differentiated cancer. Those are not as aggressive as the poorly differentiated cells that will eventually break through a blood vessel and kill people. As long as the cells have a vitamin D receptor intact – and most cells do because it’s a very robust receptor – the vitamin D will make the tumour stop growing. It will freeze it in its track,” he said. Doctors should measure vitamin D levels in their breast cancer patients. If they are deficient, they should be started immediately on 40,000 IU of vitamin D daily to get it up to 40 to 60 ng/mL, Dr. Garland advised. It is also crucial to measure serum calcium, which should be 8.5 to 10.2 mg/ dL, he said. “A woman should receive 1500 mg of calcium along with her vitamin D, because there are clinical trials showing that vitamin D works best when accompanied by that dose of calcium. Calcium is best if it is taken from food, although it’s very hard to get it out of vegetables,” Dr. Garland said. Finally, he recommended randomized controlled clinical trials to confirm the findings of this meta-analysis. “Numerous studies on the safety of vitamin D3 are available that would make such a strategy worth considering,” he said. Deficiency Also Linked to Aggressive Prostate Cancer “This study is interesting,” said Adam B. Murphy, MD, MPH, from the Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, who was not involved with the meta-analysis. “Our lab recently showed that vitamin D deficiency is linked to aggressive features on prostate cancer biopsy,” he told Medscape Medical News. “This study suggests that vitamin D is associated with mortality from breast cancer on meta-analysis,” Dr. Murphy noted. “Given the associations with aggressive disease in breast cancer and prostate cancer, this is biologically plausible.” He mentioned that reverse causation “could be at play.” This point is also made by Dr. Garland and colleagues, who note that clinical trials are needed to confirm that the association they found between reduced breast cancer mortality and high vitamin D levels is not the result of reverse causation. Recently, a large review of clinical trials concluded that low vitamin D levels are the result of various health disorders, not the cause of the health disorders. A prospective study of patients with newly diagnosed breast cancer or a randomised clinical trial of vitamin D supplementation that measures rates of recurrence and mortality could be the next step, Dr. Murphy added. F From: Medscape Medical News, March 13, 2014. By Fran Lowry. Research published in Anticancer Res. 2014;34(3):1163-1166.

wellness festival & conference

November 2014

Cancer Support WA is proud to present

BOOKINGS NOW OPEN

Beyond Medicine Seminar • Pathways to Wellness Conference • Farmer’s Market Sacred Sounds Concert and Dinner• Healthy Living Fair & Open Day • 5 Day Retreat

Prof. Avni Sali

Petrea King

the Ven. Ajahn Brahm

Christine Morrison

Prof. Rob Newton

Be inspired by 5 leaders from the fields of integrative medicine, cancer wellness, spirituality and healing during a program which includes events and activities for health professionals, people with cancer and the community.

Friday 14 Nov 9am-12pm Beyond Medicine Seminar Friday 14th Nov 1pm Cancer Wellness Centre Opening Saturday 15th Nov 8.15am-5pm Pathways to Wellness Conference Saturday 15th Nov 5.30pm-8pm Concert & Dinner Sunday 16th Nov 9am-1pm Farmer’s Market and Fair Sunday 16th Nov 9am-1pm Cancer Wellness Centre Open Day Monday 17th-Friday 22nd Nov 5 Day Retreat with Petrea King

A 5 day fully catered non-residential retreat at our brand new conference hall. This retreat is a rare opportunity to learn and be guided by a leading authority on the wellness approach to cancer management and recovery Petrea King is known worldwide for her books and the cancer healing program she founded at the Quest for Life Centre in NSW. She is also qualified as a naturopath, herbalist, clinical hypnotherapist, yoga and meditation teacher.

Our 5 speakers will all present at WA’s inaugral Wellness Conference on the 15th Nov. Following the conference we invite you to a concert and Indian dinner featuring guest performers Raje Deva, Scott Mitchell and Christine Morrison.

Book: www.cancersupportwa.org.au

Book online or by phone www.cancersupportwa.org.au | 2014 (08)WELLNESS 9384 3544 11 Winter NEWS

By Jeannine Walston Are you navigating cancer? What is your map toward wellness? Diagnostic tests, research, doctor’s appointments and evaluating cancer treatments are key components to optimise survival and quality of life. Anyone moving through a cancer journey will benefit from the best conventional cancer care available, but that is only part of the equation...

Providing Whole Body Care

Research studies have shown for many years that cancer grows in “fertile soil” or a hospitable environment in the body that supports cancerous cells. The internal environment of the body strongly impacts whether or not cancer grows in each person. For many, cancer is a symptom of an altered, unbalanced system. Along with receiving treatment for the diagnosis and symptoms, people affected by cancer need whole person health care. This model is called integrative cancer care.

Defining Integrative Cancer Care

So, what is integrative cancer care for the whole person? Integrative cancer care addresses the totality of body, mind and spirit, including the social and environmental health of the individual. All of these aspects of your health and life are constantly interacting together, influencing one another, and interdependently shaping who you are. Think about integrative cancer care using the example of diet. While what you eat impacts your physical body, food also strongly affects your thinking, your emotions, aspects of your spirituality, your relationship with yourself and other people, and the internal environment of your body. No separation exists between these elements. As a living system, your body and life are comprised of various networks constantly communicating with one another. Understanding the other dimensions of integrative cancer care provides further insights for people living with cancer and advancing whole person health care.

Supporting Your Mind-Body Connection

What is the state of your mental and emotional wellness? The state of the mind and emotions affects health due to the mind-body connection. No separation exists between the mind and body. The body feeds the mind; the mind feeds the body. Thoughts and feelings, as well as beliefs and attitudes,

Cancer Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au

INTEGRATIVE THERAPIES

impact and literally shape aspects of biological functioning. Mind-body approaches strengthen the mental and emotional inner life supporting health and healing.

Tending to Your Spirit

What is your relationship with spirit and your spirituality? Most people understand that they are connected to something larger than themselves and engage contact with spirit. There is a sense of being whole when spirit is united with the body. Since healing is about wholeness, spirituality is an essential component of an integrative cancer care plan addressing the whole person.

Caring for Your Social Wellness

How do you engage social support through cancer? For everyone, cancer is a social issue impacting their entire community. New perceptions and social experiences emerge. People dealing with cancer – patients, family members, friends – endure a range of social challenges and opportunities. Social issues that existed before cancer may also intensify during and after cancer. Learning about and providing support for social issues is a part of quality cancer care.

Image by Diane Andrasic

Addressing Your Environmental Health

How do you support your health through your environment? Today’s world contains high levels of carcinogens. Each person must take steps to safeguard against toxic chemicals associated with diseases such as cancer. The National Cancer Institute even refers to studies as far back as the 1960s concluding that the majority of cancers could be prevented by acting on what was known about the environmental causes of the disease. Addressing the link between cancer and the environment is central to advances in cancer risk reduction and for anyone already living with cancer.

Improving Cancer Care

Both women and men have the capacity to understand that health is about more than one part of their body or lifestyle and instead encompasses the many dimensions of self. This wisdom must be applied to cancer care especially as studies show that integrative cancer care reduces cancer risk, improves cancer survival and quality of life. Now is the time for more widespread innovation in supporting people with cancer. Integrative cancer care is that model. You can play a key role in improving lives and advancing integrative cancer care for the whole person. What will you do for your health and the health of those you love? F Jeannine Walston is co-founder and executive director of EmbodiWorks, a non-profit organisation offering integrative cancer care resources. Jeannine has extensive experience in cancer education and advocacy, health care policy, and both conventional and integrative cancer care.

Cancer Wellness Support Groups

You are not alone on your journey with cancer. Cancer Support WA is here to support all West Australians with cancer...you are welcome to attend our weekly support groups for people with cancer, their families and carers. Bookings not required. Open Cancer Support Group: Tuesdays 10am-12pm Carers’ Support Group: Tuesdays 10am-12pm Women’s Healing Circle: Wednesdays 10am-12pm Grief & Loss Group: Thursdays fortnightly1pm-3pm Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

By Dr Thomas Lodi

Integrative Cancer Specialist Dr Thomas Lodi explains health at a cellular level and what is required for an optimal level of cellular function to maintain health and prevent disease. The body is always trying to maintain homeostasis, and when a disease such as cancer develops it is the body’s way of saving its cells.

All biological entities are designed to regenerate, rejuvenate and procreate. So, when one picks an apple from a tree, they will find that two more have grown in its’ place next season. And when one weeds the garden, they soon find out that not only have the same weeds returned, but there are new ones sprouting up all over. And, if I cut my finger, it heals. That is, my finger is restored to its’ original condition without a break in the skin. This is the nature of nature and is as sure to occur, as it is that water will flow down hill. If one were to build a dam to prevent the water from running downhill, the water will attempt to flow around the dam so it must be constructed so as to prevent any water from leaking through and around it. But, as soon as the dam is removed or is partially taken down, the water begins to flow and will build momentum until it is flowing at full speed. It is this same force and intent of nature that makes up the very fabric of all living things enabling them to grow, repair and produce offspring. This state of maintaining balance and integrity of form and function is a fundamental quality of all biological systems and is referred to by biologists as ‘homeostasis’. Maintaining homeostasis is the most essential and primary function of an organism since propagation requires an adequately functioning system. This is clearly seen when one observes the behaviour of animals where it is noted that they will not risk survival to engage in sexual activity and that their primary concerns are food and shelter (nesting). All cells undergo programmed cellular death (apoptosis) or “suicide” and are replaced by new cells at an incomprehensible rate. For example, the liver (20 trillion cells) is completely replaced every 5 months, the rods and cones in the eyes are replaced every 48 hours, about 100 billion red blood cells are replaced daily, the cells that line the intestines are replaced every 3 days and about 30,000 to 40,000 dead skin cells are lost and replaced every minute. In order to understand the mechanisms of homeostasis, which results in continual repair and production of new cells, it is helpful to think of the cells of the body as tiny fish crowded into an aquarium. The fluid (aquarium) in which cells live is called the extracellular matrix or interstitial fluid and it is where cells are born, live and die. Cells derive all of their nutrients and expel all of their wastes into this fluid or matrix. All of the input into this matrix comes from the arterial system, that is, the system of blood vessels that exit the heart and are, therefore rich with oxygen. Having circulated through the liver, this blood also contains substances that had been ingested and digested, some of which are nutrients and unfortunately, much of it is toxins. Toxins can very generally be defined as substances, which cannot be used by the body and must be eliminated or they will interfere with metabolism and result in impaired functioning or death of the organism. Some toxins may require years to produce impairment, such as cigarette smoke or non-human food (typical Western diet) while other toxins can result in demise of the organism rather quickly. For

Cancer Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au

INTEGRATIVE THERAPIES

example, the Black Mamba snake has a mortality rate in humans of 100% within 15 minutes to 3 hours if no anti-venom is administered. The matrix is drained by the venous system (veins), which returns the blood to the heart-lung complex in order to expel the carbon dioxide (cellular waste) into the lungs to be exhaled while receiving a new load of oxygen for delivery to the matrix. The other system that drains the matrix is the intricate system of lymphatic vessels. These vessels take a sampling of the materials in the matrix back to the lymph nodes where the fluid is evaluated for its’ potential danger to the organism. If toxic or infected or abnormal (cancer), the immune system develops a very intricate and comprehensive protective response and communicates this to the rest of the body chemically by secreting what are called cytokines and interleukins. Clearly, as long as this crystalline-colloidal fluid that constitutes the matrix is clean and contains all the raw materials necessary for the cells to assemble and produce new, vibrant functioning cells, there exists a state of optimal functioning of the organism, known as ‘health’. This optimal level of functioning requires that the substances ingested by the organism and absorbed into the blood are in accordance with the natural laws that govern the functioning of the organism. For example, a lion would have a difficult time functioning if all it had to eat were grasses and fruit while a horse would be in big trouble if it were fed the corpses of other animals. This is true because these substances are in direct violation of the natural laws that direct the functioning of the lion and the cow and they are designed hence not equipped to digest and assimilate these materials into their structure and function. Also required for optimal functioning is a continuous flow of wastes and ingested toxins out of the body through its’ detoxification and drainage systems. With regards to the matrix, there must be a rapid flow of cellular waste products and unusable ingested substances (toxins) out through the veins and lymphatic systems. Both of these drainage systems are powered through muscular activity and therefore require consistent physical activity to insure adequate removal of any and all accumulated wastes. These wastes range from metabolic by-products to ingested substances to toxins absorbed through the skin or breathed in through the lungs as well as those accumulated as a consequence of inadequate disposal of previous waste (e.g., constipation, inactivity). The radiation and electromagnetic smog that we now live in adds, yet another dimension to the toxic sea in which we swim and results in both DNA mutations as well as disruptions of coherent electromagnetic functioning of our cells and organs including the immune system, central nervous system, and endocrine (hormone) system. Ionizing radiation directly disrupts cell membranes through free radical production and drives a hole straight into the nucleus where the DNA is damaged and straight into the mitochondria where the ability to engage in aerobic respiration is damaged. The non-ionizing electromagnetic frequencies have their effect by disrupting electromagnetic coherence, which disallows the unified functioning of organs or organ systems. These non-physical “toxins” can not be disposed of through the basic disposal systems of the body hence their effects propagate and are additive. The only way to neutralise ionising radiation is with anti-oxidants and the only way to neutralise electro-magnetic frequencies is through living in harmony with the earth by living in accordance with our natures so that we can partake of and continue our exposure to the gentle magnetic field of the earth by sleeping with the setting of the sun and awaking with rising of the sun. Also, of critical importance is to stay in the stream of light, which emanates from the sun by ingesting foods that are not altered by fire or radiation or microwaves or chemicals so that they

Image by Nanette Oleson

“Every cell in the body is programmed to work collaboratively with every other cell, so together they can promote the healthy functioning of the organism they’re part of. You and I are the same; we’re programmed to work collaboratively with each other in order to promote the healthy functioning civilization. But just as a cancer cell is a cell that disconnects from its natural programming and does its own thing wreaks havoc on the organism, so a malignant consciousness has come to dominate the human race, luring us into self-centered and competitive attitudes toward each other. The body can heal and so can a civilization. Cells, and people, can remember who they really are and why they’re really here. Then all is well.” ~ Marianne Williamson

Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

What is Hemaview Live Blood Analysis? Hemaview™ is a form of live blood screening that may help your Practitioner improve your health more than ever before. Using only one or two drops of your blood, your Practitioner will use Hemaview™ to investigate the size, shape and ratios of the red cells, white cells and platelets in your blood. You may have had blood tests before, but nothing compares to seeing your own blood live on a screen in front of you. Hemaview™ is based on the medical science of Hematology. It provides an accurate and immediate indication of the state of your general health. Hemaview™ can help your Practitioner assess you for the following factors: • High fat diets • Poor nutrition • Stress • Immune system health • Oxidative stress and free radical damage • Inflammation • Liver health Hemaview provides a valuable analysis for the examination and insight into the micro-biological world for early detection of what pathological development may have occurred and which may become possibly serious health conditions but does not replace standard lab tests. The good news for Cancer Support WA members is that we will be opening a new Cancer Wellness Clinic onsite in 2015 offering Hemaview Live Blood Analysis.

still contain the light from the sun, which enlivens them. Food is just a vehicle for light and it is light that sustains all physical phenomena. As is now understood, the body is always engaged in homeostatic activities and when this is understood with certainty, it becomes clear that what we call ‘cancer’ is the body’s extraordinary attempt to save our lives. What actually happens is that the cells’ mitochondria, where glucose and oxygen are brought together to produce energy for the cells’ metabolic needs, are destroyed by a continuous toxic insult and the cell, rather than die, enters into a default mode of energy production known as fermentation or glycolysis. This is a primitive and inefficient method of producing energy from glucose and hence yields only 2 ATP (biological energy packages) from every molecule of glucose instead of the 38 ATP produced in the mitochondria from one molecule of glucose. When this shift to anaerobic metabolism occurs, the cell undergoes many adaptive changes to accommodate the new metabolic requirements by modifying its enzyme systems which in turn alters its shape or form. Hence, when viewed with a microscope, these cells appear quite differently than normal cells and pathologists can easily identify them as “cancer”. If the cells failed to transform their metabolism, they would have died. So, a breast might turn black (necrotic) and the same would happen with parts of the colon or prostate or pancreas or wherever “cancer” might form. Necrotic cells are food for microorganisms. These conditions then result in an environment which produces serious infection,which soon enters the blood, producing sepsis, or blood poisoning. If the sepsis is severe enough, death occurs. What we are calling ‘cancer’ then, is the body’s last and heroic effort to save us.

How do we stop making cancer?

It is easily understood but it is a little more difficult to actually do because stopping cancer involves changing our lifestyles radically. For some, this is easily done while for others it is the most difficult thing they have ever done. When “cancer” knocks at your door you soon realise that it is actually God’s divine tap on your shoulder suggesting that you change the path you are on. It is an offer most of us can’t refuse. F

Dr Lodi’s formula to stop making cancer From: An Oasis of Healing, January 2013, www.anoasisofhealing.com. Dr Thomas Lodi has been practicing medicine for over 28 years. Prior to attending medical school, Dr. Lodi practiced as a clinical psychologist. Today, Dr Lodi combines the best alternative therapies with the best conventional ones and founded An Oasis of Healing Cancer Treatment Centre in Arizona, US to treat patients using low dose oncology and natural therapies. To find out more about the centre’s program and travelling to An Oasis of Healing for treatment please visit their website.

Taking Charge of Cancer

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NEW 2 hour Cancer Wellness Seminar

FREE for public

A cancer diagnosis can create confusion, uncertainty and a whole new world with a myriad of confusing information to understand. Taking Charge of Cancer, a free 2 hour public seminar provides the essential information to help you understand the non-medical options available to help you: improve your outcome from cancer; manage and understand your treatment regime; know which questions to ask; access support services; and maintain peace of mind. Held monthly. Upcoming program: 10th September. Wednesdays 5pm-7pm. Bookings essential. Phone 08 9384 3544 for more details.

Cancer Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au

2) Sleep early and rise early. 3) Begin your day with meditation and/or prayer and include Tai Chi, Qi Gong or Yoga. 4) Read about health and healing of the body and mind and spirit… do not read about disease (at least 30 minutes). 5) Exercise aerobically for at least 20 minutes (45 eventually) and include some resistance exercises for muscle tone and strength. 6) Eat only after exercising but remember, you do not have to eat in the morning and the longer period of time between meals, the healthier you become. 7) Clean your colon. The colon is about 1.5 to 2 metres in length so consider how much waste you should be eliminating each day to clear it. You could try having regular enemas and colonic irrigations, for example one colonic and 3 enemas per week. 8) Coffee retention enemas are excellent ways to cleanse your liver and wheat grass juice or other fresh juice retention enemas are another way to get nutrients into your body. 9) Take a rest at noon, meditate and/or pray, take your shoes off and feel the earth with your bare feet and allow the sun to warm your skin, if possible for around 30 minutes depending where you are living. 10) Eat your evening meal at least 3 hours before going to bed. It is very important for healing to go to sleep with an empty stomach and intestines.

“Our entire world view of cancer needs to shift from an enemy that ‘attacks’ us which we must wage war against, to something our body does, presumably to survive an increasingly inhospitable, nutrient-deprived, carcinogen- and radiationsaturated environment” Sayer Ji

11) Meditate and/or pray before eating your evening meal. 12) Be careful not to lie. Being dishonest produces harmful psycho-emotional and spiritual effects. 13) Laugh...belly laugh, if possible a few times a day. 14) Be kind...if angry, go sit and breathe deeply or, if necessary go somewhere and scream and bang a stick and then go breathe deeply and slowly and meditate for 5 minutes. 15) Spend the last 30 minutes before going to bed by reading and/or praying or meditating. 16) Insure that the room you sleep in is quiet, dark and has no electronic equipment in it. 17) Fast up to four times per year. You can also read more about diet and fasting. 19) The order of importance with regards to eating healthfully: Volume, frequency and quality. Therefore, do not eat until full. Quality food is organic, fresh and ripe. 20) Find someone to love.

Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

LIFESTYE AND ENVIRONMENT

1) Eat according to your biological needs rather than you appetite. Keep in mind that we are primates, not canines or felines or bovine or porcine. Consider what gorillas eat and ask yourself if they are strong and healthy. Organic, ripe, fresh and unaltered are the qualities of the food that are most compatible with health.

By Dr Thomas Lodi What came first? The chicken or egg….which one produces the other? And so it is with cancer. Epigenetics or genetics? Which one determines genetic expression – the original program of the DNA (genes) or the environment in which the genes exist? In this article Dr Thomas Lodi explores this question – which is sure to be at the forefront of the minds of anyone with a genetic predisposition to cancer considering preventative measures.

Epigenetics or genetics….which one determines genetic expression – the original program of the DNA (genes) or the environment in which the genes exists? As most people know, Angelina Jolie had both of her breasts surgically removed last year, even though there was absolutely no sign of breast cancer in either breast. And furthermore, she has already planned to have both of her healthy ovaries removed, as soon as she has recovered sufficiently from the first surgery. Clearly, those promoting the genetic side of the argument have been more convincing than those promoting the epigenetic perspective. Briefly, BRCA genes refer to genes that exist in all people and whose function is to repair damaged, double stranded DNA. If one of the parents have a mutation in this gene, 50% of the children are likely to have the same mutation hence this mutation exists equally in both sexes. In order for this mutated inheritance to be a problem, the second gene, which was passed from the parent without the BRCA mutation, must undergo what is called, somatic mutation (a mutation occurring after birth). In other words, the normal gene that was inherited must be damaged after birth to the degree that a mutation is produced resulting in both genes being defective. Even when this happens it is only the first step in the process since the BRCA genes are only one set of an entire group of enzymes that are involved in DNA repair. For these reasons, BRCA genes are said to be capable of “skipping” generations. In reality, genes do not “skip” generations. The offspring who inherits the mutated gene simply does not have enough toxic exposure to damage the other, non-mutated BRCA gene. Toxic exposure is epigenetics….that is, the environment in which the cell lives. If the interstitial fluid (matrix) surrounding the cells is sufficiently toxic, the BRCA genes, as well as all other genes are at risk of being damaged, and if not repaired adequately, mutated. The vast majority of cellular damage takes place at the outer cellular membranes (double layered) and, if significant to the point that a break occurs, the cytoplasm, or inside of the cell becomes exposed and possibly damaged. Clearly then, it is a long way to the nucleus where the DNA is housed within another double layered membrane, the nuclear membrane. Somatic mutations (occurring after birth) accordingly, require a continual, highly toxic set of conditions in order for them to occur. Unfortunately, those circumstances are currently the norm on planet Earth but nonetheless, it should be easily recognized that a set of environmental (epigenetic) stimuli is required to allow an inherited mutation (e.g., BRCA) to progress into a cancerous transformation.

Cancer Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au

Cellular membranes (“skin”) are the mediators between the extracellular (fluid/matrix) environment and the internal cellular environment and functioning. Membranes contain thousands of “pores”, “gates”, ”channels”, receptors and antennae, which determine cellular function based upon environmental conditions. The DNA, housed in the nucleus (center) of the cell functions as a reproductive “organ” of the cell generating products in accordance with the “instructions” it receives from the cellular membranes. Hence, genetic expression is always and only in response to the cellular needs as determined by the membranes as a consequence of the environmental (epigenetic) conditions. “Up-regulation” and “down-regulation” describe normal cellular functioning. Down-regulation is the process by which cells decrease the amount of a cellular component in response to an external condition, while an increase of a cellular component is called up-regulation. For example, if a particular receptor is lacking or deficient such that normal cellular functions cannot occur; more receptors are produced by the DNA and transported to the outer membrane so that the cell can be brought back into homeostasis (balance). When this occurs, the cell is said to have “up-regulated” the receptor, as is what occurs to the cells lining the uterus during the first third of the menstrual cycle. Uterine cells become more “sensitive” to estrogen simply by increasing the number of estrogen receptors (up-regulating estrogen receptors). Likewise, if a cell is being over stimulated throughout a relatively prolonged period, the production of these receptors by the DNA is decreased in order to protect the cell and maintain homeostasis. This physiological homeostatic process is known as tachyphylaxis and is what occurs when cells are exposed to excessive amount of sugar. They down-regulate insulin receptors and the person is said to be “insulin resistant”. This is the fundamental mechanism by which the body is able to very accurately and precisely modulate hormone production as is required for growth, development, reproduction, optimal functioning and homeostasis. Individual cells contribute in mass with all the other cells of an organ or organ system to maintain the harmonic resonance of the 100 trillion + cells in the body. This continual modulation or hormones and receptors, as well as all other cellular products is called by physiologists

as “positive” and “negative feedback loops”. These feedback loops maintain appropriate and optimal levels of hormones as the environment changes, whether from stimuli external to the body (trauma, EMF, pesticide ingestion, etc) or changes occurring within the body, such as growth or intestinal floral changes, for example. The Institute of Pathology (University Hospital Nijmegen) in the Netherlands published a study in 1995 wherein they were able to show that the angiogenic (new blood vessel formation) factors responsible for tumour growth and metastases (spread) could be manipulated by altering the oxygen concentration in the environment of the cells. In other words, when the oxygen concentration was lowered, the gene expression of VPF (vascular permeability factor) increased. VPF is also known as vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), hence when the oxygen concentration around cells decreases, the cells’ response is to produce more blood vessels in order to bring more blood carrying oxygen to the cells. It is well known that cancer is an anaerobic, homeostatic response to a low oxygen environment. Hence, as the oxygen concentration continues to be low, cancer will develop, grow and spread by inducing the increased production of these proteins, which produce new blood vessels. “…epigenetic events….represent fundamental aspects of cancer, and play key roles in neoplastic transformation and tumour progression”, Matouk, et. Al, Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto. Simply put, epigenetics regulate whether or not a gene will be turned on or off that, in turn allows tumours to develop, grow and spread. And, that phenomenon does not involve mutations. It is basically the same set of homeostatic responses that allows for all other physiological functions to occur, such as hormone levels, as discussed. These same authors went on the state, “Recent evidence suggests that epigenetic mechanisms play a major role in breast carcinogenesis, contributing to genetic instability in breast cancer….including cell cycle control genes (p161NK4a), steroid receptor genes (Era, PR, RARB2), tumour suppressor genes (BRCA1)and others.” Their conclusions are that breast and other cancers develop, grow and spread as a result of epigenetics, or microenvironment around cells. It is epigenetics that control genetic expression and it is abundantly clear from their last statement that, estrogen, progesterone and BRCA mutations all contribute to breast cancer development and progression only if the environment of the cells stimulate this malignant genetic expression. Anderson, et. al., from the University of Michigan published their review of the literature regarding nutrient status and the generation of DNA methylation, which has been shown to be the mechanism whereby epigenetics regulate genetic expression. One-carbon metabolism (methylation) is the result Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

INTEGRATIVE THERAPIES

Normal cellular activities are a function of environmental (epigenetic) conditions. That is, cells are designed to function in sequence with and respond to conditions in their immediate living environment, which is known as the extracellular fluid or matrix. They have no function independent of their environment. They may be said to be contiguous with their environment or that both the cells and their environment are constituents of a larger whole such as an organ. There is no cellular function in isolation.

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of several enzymes in the presence of dietary micronutrients, which include but are not limited to folate, choline, betaine and other B vitamins. For this reason, nutrition status, particularly micronutrient intake, has been a focal point when investigating epigenetic mechanisms. Furthermore, the ingested substances referred to as macronutrients (carbs, proteins and fats) actually supply the basic raw materials necessary for repair, renewal and new cell development. In summary, macronutrients supply the materials for regeneration, rejuvenation and procreation while micronutrients provide the mechanisms by which this all occurs. The quality and quantity of our food intake directly contributes to whether or not we will develop cancer by turning off tumour suppressor genes and/or turning on other genes permitting tumour growth and metastases. In fact, these same authors were able to glean from their review and integration of human epidemiological data with that of animal studies that it is not only the mothers’ nutritional status that contribute to the child’s health, but also that of the grandmother’s, as well. “As parents, we have to understand better that our responsibilities to our children are not only of a social, economical, or educational nature, but that our own biological status can contribute to the fate of our children, and this effect can be long-lasting,” said Mihai Niculescu, M.D., Ph.D., study author from Nutrition Research Institute at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, in Chapel Hill, N.C. At the most rudimentary biochemical level underlying all of these metabolic processes are redox reactions, which are responsible for metabolism (gene expression, protein production, repair, new cell production, etc.). That is, oxidation and anti-oxidation (reduction) are how life happens. Keep in mind that the redox potential, like pH (acid-alkaline), is a fundamental quality of the cellular environment, or epigenetics and is largely a function of (dependent upon) nutritional intake and waste removal mechanisms. Social genomics or the effect of psychological and social influences on genetic expression has become a very broad field of study with a vast amount of solid, scientific research having been accumulated over the past few decades. This field actually emerged in the modern era several decades ago when Hans Selye, MD, PhD (pioneering endocrinologist) identified and coined the expression, “stress” pertaining to the psychology of the individual, rather than physical influences. The mind (or brain’s) perception of the social environment and its likelihood to impact the individual are translated into physiology, biochemistry and genetics through the regulation of hormones, neurotransmitters, and other signaling molecules that activate membrane receptors and transcription factors, etc.

Cancer Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au

A very simple example is the “fright or flight” response wherein the sympathetic nervous system and the connection between the brain and the adrenal glands (hypothalamic-pituitaryadrenal axis) represent two pathways by which perceptions of negative social conditions regulate gene transcription in multiple ways in a multitude of cells. Positive psychological conditions, such as meditation, prayer and joy also regulate human gene expression although the molecular mediators are poorly understood at present. Although DNA encodes the potential for a cell’s activities, that potential can only become realized if the gene is expressed. Without being expressed, genes are no more relevant than a map lying on the floor in the backseat of the car. So, with all of that in mind, it might be concluded that epigenetics is the answer to “which is it”, genetics or epigenetics? The answer lies in the ability to engage in self dialectics. Simply ask yourself, which is more important, my back or my front? Stars or space? In or out? As a moments’ reflection will reveal to you, they are both aspects of the same phenomenon and cannot be separated. And, in fact it is the question, “which is it?” in itself which is the problem. The answer, of course is neither….it is both because they are two fundamental aspects of the same thing. Separating them is artificial since they are not separated anywhere except in our minds. F From: www.naturalhealth365.com. Dr Thomas Lodi has been practicing medicine for over 28 years. Prior to attending medical school, Dr. Lodi practiced as a clinical psychologist. For the first ten years of his medical career, Thomas Lodi, MD, MD(H), CNS worked in conventional settings as an internal medicine specialist, urgent care physician, and as an intensivist in ICU and CCU departments of various hospitals. Although he occasionally sees patients with a variety of medical conditions, Dr. Lodi, has narrowed his scope of practice through specific training and extensive experience over the past 12 years to Integrative Oncology (caring for people with cancer) through his treatment centre, An Oasis of Healing. Today, Dr Lodi combines the best alternative therapies with the best conventional ones and founded An Oasis of Healing Cancer Treatment Centre in Arizona, US to treat patients using low dose oncology and natural therapies. An Oasis of Healing has a three pillared approach to cancer wellness: 1. Teach Patients How to Stop Making Cancer; 2. Target and Eliminate the Cancer Without Harming the Patient; 3. Stimulate, Balance & Enhance the Immune system. To find out more about the centre’s program and travelling to An Oasis of Healing for treatment please visit their website www.anoasisofhealing.com.

INTEGRATIVE THERAPIES

Research published in The Journal of Cell Biology, from a team led by Susana Gonzalo, Ph.D., illustrates our ability to dramatically reduce the risk of breast cancer – even with a BRCA1 gene mutation, without the need for surgery. The so called breakthrough of this study is something we already know – vitamin D plays a significant role in turning off a pathway that would cause an activation of the mutated BRCA1 gene. In other words, vitamin D can provide a safe and cost-effective way to prevent cancer. But, vitamin D is not the only nutrient with cancer-fighting properties.A study in the medical journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention looked at the benefits of dietary selenium supplements for women who have mutations in the BRCA1 gene. The study was conducted in Poland, specifically for people who have a high risk of cancer due to their family history or genetic tests. The researchers used women who had the mutation and a relative that did not have the BRCA1 mutation. The researchers collected a blood sample from each pair of women to find out how the blood may be damaged in a way that could lead to cancer. These samples were exposed to a chemical, which can cause cell damage. This was done to see how much damage occurs in the cells of women with and without the BRAC1 mutation. For the second phase of this study, researchers gave a selenium supplement that provided 276 micrograms of selenium per day, for the duration of one to three months. Then, they had new blood samples taken after the women had taken the dietary selenium supplements. In the first part of the study, without the supplements, researchers found that the cells from the blood samples of women with a BRCA1 gene mutation sustained significantly more damage – when exposed to the test chemical – compared to the women without the mutation. They found that cells from women with a BRCA1 gene mutation had an average of 0.58 damaged areas or breaks per cell as compared with 0.39 breaks per cell in the cells from women without a BRAC1 mutation. This showed that the women with the mutation were more susceptible to a type of damage that could lead to cancer. The women in the study with the BRCA1 mutation also had low levels of selenium before receiving the selenium supplement. After one to three months, these women nearly doubled their level of selenium and the researchers found an average of only 0.40 breaks in the genetic material per cell, nearly the same as the women without the BRAC1 mutation.

“What anyone with a genetic disposition to cancer needs to know is that genes can only express what they are fed. If they are fed a polluted diet from a toxic immediate environment (milieu), they will express disease. With proper diet and a detoxified milieu, genes will almost always express resilient, thriving cells, never cancerous cells.” ~ Jonathan Landsman

In addition, researchers have discovered that omega-3 fatty acids are able to modify the BRCA1 gene in a positive way and showed poor quality polyunsaturated fatty acids have no effect – at all. The bottom line is that vitamin D, selenium and healthy fats are powerful ways to help prevent breast cancer or any other type of cancer for that matter. F From: www.naturalnews.com, 18th May 2013. Excerpt from an article by Jonathan Landsman. Reaching hundreds of thousands of people, worldwide, as a personal health consultant, writer and radio talk show host of Natural News Hour, Jonathan has been educating the public on the health benefits of an organic (non-GMO) diet along with highquality supplementation and healthy lifestyle habits including exercise and meditation. Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

After 10 days in the Central Desert sleeping in a swag, Cathy Brown took the time to slow down and reconnected with nature in ways that deepened her connection with the land, with her innermost self restoring harmony and appreciation of the many gifts of human life.

Nature Deficit Disorder refers to a hypothesis by Richard Louv in his 2005 book ‘Last Child in the Woods’ – that human beings, especially children, are spending less time outdoors resulting in a wide range of behavioural problems. I was told 23 years ago when I was first diagnosed with secondary cancer to get back as close as I could to nature if I wanted to heal. The theory was that the further people get away from the way nature intended humans to live – the more at dis-ease people would become. To heal, I needed to realign with the Laws of Nature. This advice included eating the way that nature intended – S L O W – season, local, organic and whole. The more times food is processed – the further away from nature it becomes. Our bodies just aren’t evolved enough to process all this ‘processed food’. In fact, I hesitate ever calling it food because most products in the supermarket now are not really food – they are stomach fillers – just look at the labels to see how many chemicals, colours and additives are included – no nutritional value – only chemicals and calories. Many manufacturers have no idea about nutrition and their bottom line is their wealth – not your health. It is not their fault or responsibility that we get sick from eating this substance – we live in a free country – we have choices – but I believe it gets back to awareness and self responsibility on our part to make healthy choices and respect our bodies. It is the only body we have – so we need to look after it with the best possible fuel. Over the years I have seen people protest about the terrible conditions that ‘battery hens’ and other animals are forced to live – and I agree. Under artificial lights, pumped with antibiotics, never getting to scratch the ground, stressed and starting to attack each other – is this sounding familiar to the stressed and sterile life that we also live? Living under artificial lights, synthetic carpet on the floor, furniture that off-gasses chemicals into our homes – never getting our hands dirty – using anti-bacterial sprays and gels to kill the germs – trying to create a sterile world – what about our immune system? It’s not about killing all the germs – that is impossible – it’s about keeping our bodies healthy enough to resist these germs. Also, there is so much fear of the sun these days that people prefer to stay ‘locked up’ inside instead of enjoying our beautiful climate. Many people now have a deficiency in vitamin D3, which is essential to the many processes of our body – but don’t worry – there is a pill to fix this up! What about the sun – it gives us life and people throughout time have worshipped the sun for its powerful light and fertility. The Greeks, Egyptians, Mayas, Aztecs, and modern day Christians have all considered the sun sacred in one way or another – but now we are all

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MIND BODY HEALING

conditioned to live in fear of it. Don’t get me wrong – I am not saying to go outside and get your skin burnt – there are sensible limits we all need to live by to survive. Our bodies and mind were not intended to be bombarded by noise and electrical equipment and stimulus all the time. How many people now cannot sit in their car or home without turning the TV or Radio on? We are on sensory overload and our bodies are trying to tell us something! It is time we listened. Last year, I was very fortunate to assist Drs Ian and Ruth Gawler with their Meditation in the Desert Retreat – 1 ½ hours out from Alice Springs. What I realised for me was this was a time when I could ‘reset my master switch’ – by getting back in touch with life – the way nature intended. There is a button on your mobile phone – when you have interfered with all the settings and it doesn’t work properly – you simply press the ‘reset’ button and the phone reverts back to the factory settings. This retreat helped me get back to my omni-potential (my factory settings). We were sleeping in swags – on the ground (on an ancient riverbed) and under the stars – wow! This was a first for me and I’m sorry it took me so long to have this experience. In a book called Earthing, authors Clinton Ober, Martin Zucker and Dr. Stephen T. Sinatra put forth a bold proposal that body-to-earth contact has the power to directly impact our health. At the heart of their theory is a central physics-based relationship. Since the advent of shoes, houses, flooring, and elevated beds, we’ve lost our contact with the earth and its inherent electrical field. In discarding (or minimising) this physical connection, we’re forgoing natural healing benefits that previously played a significant role in our physiological functioning. The body, when grounded in the earth, returns to its natural electrical homeostasis as part of the living electrical matrix. It’s an intriguing theory with, as yet, little attention.

Wild Desert Flowers. Both images by Eileen Bloomfield Perrrule, Eastern Arrente, Northern Territory

We ate organic vegan food for 10 days – clean food prepared lovingly by the cook and his volunteers. We meditated several hours a day in silence – listening to nature – the wind, birds and buzz of the flies. We talked around a campfire at night, listening to stories and sharing with like-minded people – fabulous. And on the last two and a half days were privileged to sit with the local indigenous elders who shared with us their ways of living. Their ancestors had survived in this part of the country for 60,000 years and looked after the land. I could not help but reflect on what has been done to our beautiful country with chemicals and imported animals in the last 200 years. I know we are called the Human Race – but what are we racing for? Why don’t we take time to slow down? Slow down and smell the roses – in the sunshine, the wind blowing on our faces – sharing our time on this earth with the people we love. Remembering and re-connecting to ourselves and living our lives in harmony with the Laws of Nature. F From: Cancer Support WA blog: www.cancersupportwa.org.au. Cathy Brown is Cancer Support WA’s Wellness Facilitator. To find out more about attending a course or program with Cathy go to our website www.cancersupportwa.org.au or call us on (08) 9384 3544. Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

Ryan James interviews African conservationist Boyd Varty

Ryan: The “healing power of nature” is a theme that is becoming more and more popular. You have lived in the bush for most of your life. What can “city slickers” learn from “bush dwellers”?

Ryan: I suspect that – in general – you are against the shortterm connotations of the word “detox”, but considering the pace of the world we live in, I am interested in your approach to the term “digital detox”.

Boyd: Three things come to mind immediately.

Boyd: You know, in the 1950’s people smoked tobacco intensively, and the surgeon general encouraged it. Today it’s difficult to believe that a doctor would recommend smoking.

First, nature is a wordless environment, and wordlessness helps us to access what Eckhart Tolle refers to as “the power of now” or the present. Too often, through words, we are reliving the past (regret) or anticipating the future (anxiety). The more time we spend in the present, the more likely we are to access harmony, balance and peace. Second, if you observe animals, you’ll notice that they are never frantic. Energy is preserved and activated carefully depending on the activity. Lions are a good example. Rest is proper rest (under a tree with legs in the air). But when necessary, lions tap into a huge amount of fierce energy. There is rarely much “in-between” energy expended, and there is certainly no “drama” to waste energy on. As humans we mismanage energy all the time. One of my greatest ongoing lessons is mastering the art of strategically conserving and directing my energy. The third lesson, the power of rest, relates to the second. In the bush, when the sun goes down, we go to sleep shortly after. There is a harmony between the body and its environment – it’s dark, it’s dangerous to be outside, melatonin is released, etc. There is no doubt that humans need to be more aware of what the body wants and not what the mind (or culture) thinks it wants. I am reminded of a poem by Mary Oliver, who said “you only have to let the soft animal of your body love what it loves.” It’s sounds so simple, but it’s not: be present, be efficient with your energy, and, be aware of what your body needs and want.

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I believe we’ll be in the same place with technology twenty years from now. A place where people are shocked at the previous generation’s digital addiction and the subsequent overdose and long-term damage. The digital overdose is shortening our attention spans, rewiring our brains, and affecting our short-term memory. While it facilitates “range” of information processing and engagement, it prevents “depth”. And what about what technology is doing to our relationships with others? Today, in the glow of a neon culture, we have less opportunity to interact with a person’s essence.We cannot be without technology, but we should certainly have times of the day when phones and other digital devices are off our person. Families need to manage the digital culture at home and they need to value intimacy again. We need more firelight and candlelight – more occasions and environments that facilitate the gentle transmission of intimacy. Ryan: Would you say the “wild” is more attractive to introverts who often crave a quiet sanctuary? Or is it as important for extroverts to seek out sanctuary in the wild as well? Boyd: There is a group of people who believe that depression (and conditions similar to depression) can be defined as homesickness for the Earth. Even the most die-hard city slickers will agree that it simply is not natural for humans to have no interaction with the wilderness. We are nature. It is our home.

LIFESTYLE & ENVIRONMENT

Regardless of whether a person is an introvert or an extrovert, if they don’t want to seek out the sanctuary of the wilderness, then they have become disconnected from what is good for them. For me, it is as simple as that. Many of us need to relearn what it is that we really want and need.Time with ourselves, time with family, stillness. And all of those things are found best when we come home to nature. Ryan: On any vacation, especially one to a natural area of beauty like Londolozi, it is easier to slow down, relax and put your life into perspective. We might even pledge to change our behavior once we get home. But how do we stay connected to that relaxed, more at ease person once we are back into the city and routine? Boyd: Great question and one that I am glad you asked because we often think, “man I loved that holiday – I can’t wait for the next one” and then we forget to ask ourselves why. Why did I love that holiday? Why do I feel better now than I ever have? Why am I already looking forward to my next trip and dreading the time in between? So take a second and ask yourself what it was about being in nature that you loved. Be specific and isolate exactly what it is that you felt nourished your soul. Possibly it was the stillness. The time to yourself. The long moments of silence and thought. Feeling the sun on your skin, or the coolness of the morning air. What about the lack of pressure and demands?

Art and Words: Louise Benton, Anahata Creations

Now ask yourself, how do I create more of what I loved about my holiday at home? How do I create more time for myself or more stillness? It’s possible, you just have to implement the change. I believe that a journey into the wilderness is like going on a vision quest. You will see the medicine that you need and the opportunity will be there for you to take that medicine (and wisdom) home with you. What you’ll notice is that when you take responsibility for your own healing, the people around you will start healing too. When we change, the world changes. F Boyd Varty grew up in the African bush, surrounded by the people and animals who were part of the family’s dream to “restore Eden.” As a student Boyd studied psychology and ecology. He has also learnt martial arts in Thailand, hiked the jungles of the Amazon, and apprenticed himself to a renowned tracker to deepen his intimate knowledge of the natural world. Boyd continues his path of linking the growth of the human mind and spirit with the restoration of ecosystems, and has published his first memoir, Cathedral of the Wild, launched a career as a coach who introduces first-world seekers to an intimate relationship with the wild, and devoted himself to healing not only landscapes and animals, but the people and human systems that must coexist with nature to create a healthy and sustainable future for life. To find out more about Londolozi go to www.londolozi.com.

Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

By Chrystle Fiedler Time to hit the personal pause button? It may be time to rethink what rest really is and integrate real and meaningful relaxation into your daily life.

What if we valued intentional quiet time, sacred space, and silence? How would that change our lives? Despite our best intentions to live balanced lives, the modern world demands that we are almost always connected and productive, and this can drain us emotionally, spiritually, and physically. “We live in a culture that perpetuates the belief that when we have a lot going on and a lot of excitement, we’re really alive,” says Anne LeClaire, author of Listening Below the Noise: A Meditation on the Practice of Silence. “In truth, we are really alive when we can be at peace within our own skin.” It may seem counterintuitive to take time out when your to-do list is a mile long, but the fact is that doing nothing can make you feel healthier, more energetic, and more alive. It can also help you enjoy life more. And yes, in case you’re wondering, you’ll be more productive as well. When we rest, it’s like letting the earth lie fallow rather than constantly planting and harvesting. “There’s a reason why we have sabbaticals, and it’s exactly that – to fill up again, to restore,” says LeClaire, who leads the program Listening Below the Noise: A Retreat on Silence at Kripalu. “Batteries need to be recharged. The best way is to rest.”

What Rest Is and Isn’t

“Rest is not what most people think it is,” says Rubin Naiman, PhD, a sleep specialist and clinical assistant professor of medicine at the University of Arizona’s Center for Integrated Medicine. “People confuse rest with recreation, doing things like hiking, watching movies, gardening, reading, or even inebriation – getting

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MIND BODY HEALING

high, tipsy, or drunk. Any of these activities can only be termed restful because they are breaks from work.” Instead, rest can be defined as a kind of waking sleep, experienced while you are alert and aware. “Rest is the essential bridge to sleep,” says Dr. Naiman, creator of the audio book The Yoga of Sleep (Sounds True) and coauthor with Andrew Weil, MD, of Healthy Sleep. “We can never ‘go to’ sleep, just as you can’t ‘go to’ rest – it’s already there.” We achieve rest and sleep the same way, by making space for it and allowing it to happen. You can see this very clearly in the animal world: one minute a dog is sleeping, the next minute she’s barking. Animals don’t venture as far from the world of rest and sleep as humans do. “If you watch animals, [you’ll see] they spend a lot of time not sleeping but resting,” says Abby Seixas, author of Finding the Deep River Within: A Woman’s Guide to Recovering Balance and Meaning in Everyday Life. “The animal part of us needs this too. Every living organism needs rest. When we don’t take the time to rest, eventually it takes a toll on the body.”

The Benefits of Rest

Rest melts stress away, and research proves it. Herbert Benson, MD, of the BensonHenry Institute for Mind Body Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital, is the creator of the Relaxation Response, a method to invoke a state of deep rest. He has conducted numerous studies on the benefits of rest, and his research shows that practicing the Relaxation Response can actually lead to genomic activity changes. Put simply, the Relaxation Response affects each of the body’s 40,000 genes, producing antioxidation and anti-inflammatory changes that reduce stress in the body. Practices like the Relaxation Response, yoga, and meditation also lower heart rates, blood pressure, and oxygen consumption, and alleviate hypertension, arthritis, insomnia, depression, infertility, cancer, and anxiety. The spiritual benefits of resting are also profound. “When you slow down and get quiet, you can actually begin to hear your own wisdom, your inner knowledge,” says LeClaire. Rest and its sibling, relaxation, allow us to reconnect with the world in and around us, inviting ease in our lives and a felt-sense of belonging. Relationships can also become more harmonious and satisfying. “How we are with ourselves affects how we are in our relationships,” says Seixas. “If you are in stress mode, just doing, doing, doing and checking things off the list, you are not going to be good with your significant other, your kids, your family and friends. You tend to have a shorter fuse. You don’t see the big picture.” When you slow down, you gain a sense of perspective on what really matters. If you are a writer or an artist, rest sharpens your creative abilities. When we are living hectic, frantic lives, there isn’t room for creativity. “Everything on the planet needs space, whether it’s an atom molecule, art, or music. It’s actually the space between that creates the music,” says LeClaire. “It’s also the space in our lives that helps us make sense of our lives.”

Easy Ways to Rest

Simple things can help us rest, says LeClaire. “We can do things like turn off the car radio. Go for a walk without ear buds in our ears. Turn off a TV in our home. Designate a half hour, an hour, or even half a day for silence.” Even a walk in nature, without an intention or goal such as burning calories, can work. Try also taking a few conscious breaths, during which you focus on the inhale and exhale or the space between breaths. You can also mindfully drink a cup of tea, read something inspirational, write in your journal, take a hot bath, or get a massage.

In order to be helpful, not hurtful, naps should be limited to about 25 minutes during the day. Taking a nap can be rejuvenating and increase productivity, keeping you from dragging through the rest of your day. Taking a nap longer than 30 minutes during the day is actually not good for you. There are 3 stages of sleep, with stage three occurring after thirty minutes. This is considered “deep” sleep, and is when rapid eye movement (REM) begins. Here is where dreams begin and your body starts slowing down for long-term rest. Waking from this deep stage of sleep causes what is called sleep inertia. Motor dexterity goes down, while grogginess and the desire for sleep increases.

Taking a nap is a powerful way to rest and recharge. “When you take a nap, you’re not just doing something for yourself, you’re making a statement to the world that

Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

there is something that is at least equally important and productive as working, and that is doing nothing,” says Dr. Naiman. “Napping also can lead to better sleep patterns.” It’s helpful to set a specific time for rest. “You need to put boundaries around it so you can claim that time,” says Seixas. “This is especially important for women, because we tend to give that time away more easily [to] others.”

Learning to Rest

Surprisingly, most of us need to learn how to rest. Practices such as yoga nidra, restorative yoga, and voluntary silence are powerful ways to go within and achieve restful states of being, particularly when you commit to practicing them regularly.

The more we integrate periods of rest and silence into our daily lives, the bigger the payoff will be. “There isn’t a perfect ratio,” says Reis. “Much depends on our individual lives. During more tranquil periods, perhaps we don’t need to rest as much, but during periods of crisis, more rest and silence is called for. After a while it should be like brushing your teeth. Whenever you do it, know that you are practicing preventive medicine.”

Yoga nidra (also known as yogic sleep), a systematic, progressive guided meditation practice that is becoming more and more popular, is an extremely effective way to stop and rest. Practicing yoga nidra for just 10 minutes is equivalent to three to four hours of sleep. While most forms of meditation focus on building concentration, yoga nidra is actually a journey through the koshas, or five layers of being – the physical body, the energy body, the mental/emotional body, the wisdom body, and the bliss body. “It’s wonderful to do as a daily practice because it brings you out of ‘fight or flight,’ the sympathetic nervous-system mode, into the parasympathetic nervoussystem mode, where your body does its own healing,” says Jennifer Reis, a Kripalu Yoga teacher specializing in yoga nidra. Restorative yoga also facilitates refreshing rest. “Restorative yoga is the quintessential stressreducing, nourishing yoga practice,” says Sudha Carolyn Lundeen, who teaches restorative yoga and leads women’s self-care retreats at Kripalu. “In restorative yoga, we use more props than in other forms of yoga, including blocks, cushions, and blankets. This is in order to support the body being held in various yoga poses for longer periods of time, with greater ease and comfort.” Like yoga nidra, restorative yoga stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system and invokes the Relaxation Response, lowering heart rate and blood pressure, relaxing muscles, and creating softer, more rhythmic breathing. Learning the benefits of silence and bringing them into everyday life is also an effective way to deeply rest the body, mind, and spirit. “In my Silence Class, we take a clear look at our lives to see where we have or have not allowed space for silence, and then explore why we absolutely need silence,” says LeClaire, who for the past 17 years has remained in silence for the first and third Monday of every month. “Next, we experience silence through the workshops, various types of meditative walks, and periods of eating in silence, and explore ways that we can introduce silence and see the value of it. We [also] explore the many possibilities of bringing space for silence into our lives.”

Practice, Practice, Practice

Keep in mind that when you descend into restful practices, you may at first find it uncomfortable. “It’s like when you’re flying in a jetliner at 30,000 feet – as soon as you start to land, it almost always gets a little bumpy,” says Dr. Naiman. “It’s very similar with the mind and the spirit – you experience emotional turbulence.” Many people flee that turbulence by quickly getting busy again. “We’re running from our thoughts and our feelings, [we’re afraid] that if we stop we’ll discover that we’re not enough,” says Reis. But when we rest, a whole new world comes into view. “We learn that we’re more than enough,” says Reis. “We find our authentic self.” The more we integrate periods of rest and silence into our daily lives, the bigger the payoff will be. “There isn’t a perfect ratio,” says Reis. “Much depends on our individual lives. During more tranquil periods, perhaps we don’t need to rest as much, but during periods of crisis, more rest and silence is called for. After a while it should be like brushing your teeth.” Whenever you do it, know that you are practicing preventive medicine. Says LeClaire, “The important thing is to make it intentional, to make it a sacred time. F Chrystle Fiedler is the author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Natural Remedies and writes about alternative health for many national magazines.

Cancer Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au

INSPIRATIONS

By Robert Becker How do we find inner peace in a world filled with turmoil? Should we even be trying? Isn’t that a bit selfish to think about your own inner peace when there is so much darkness around us? Shouldn’t we go out and fight the good fight? As spiritual seekers we are not all that different from everybody else. The same traits that exist in and motivate people to go and harm other people exist in us as well. If we look closely and we are honest, jealousy, hatred, anger all exist within us to some degree or another. So if we want to make a difference to the world, if we want to make the world a better place then the place to start is within ourselves. There’s no point going out into the world and trying to eliminate all the negatively there, if in our own hearts we are nurturing our own little store of darkness. What happens when we embark on our spiritual journey is that we realise two things. First of all we realise that this is all impermanent, nothing lasts forever. It’s not that important if someone comes and steals the carrots out of my garden, I don’t have to go and murder them in retribution. It doesn’t matter. In the bigger picture, everything will pass anyway. People with little in the way of material resources, realise this truth more easily than those who hoard unnecessary wealth. They know better what it is to go without so they are more inclined to share with others in the same predicament. That’s the first thing we realise, not to cling to our possessions. The second thing we realise is that what is there is also here. So I am not different from you. There is no real subject and object, me and the other, me and the world. I am part of the world. What is in me is in you. The capacity for love, the capacity for pain and for suffering is as much in you as it is in me. That being the case why would I contribute further to the pain and suffering in the world rather than to the love and compassion?

The analogy that is given by the Yogis is that of a little candle. Imagine this room in the pitch of night, absolutely dark, black. Then you come in and you have a little candle and you light that little candle and suddenly the darkness starts to disappear. It is pushed away. You don’t have to wrestle with it or cover it up, you just bring your light in and it dissolves the darkness without any effort on your part. That darkness was merely the absence of light. On your own you may not make a huge difference, your candle may not light up the whole room but it makes a difference. Just by allowing that spark to be lit within us, realising these two truths, we start to nurture the positive qualities more than the negative qualities and we reduce, even just a little, the turmoil and suffering in the world. And then one candle lights, another candle lights, another candle lights and suddenly there are twenty or thirty little candles burning in the room and the whole room is filled with light. Always believe you can make a difference. However small it seems take your light out into the world, wherever you are, and let it shine, you are making a difference. We all experience loss, we all experience grief, it is an integral part of life but it need not defeat us. If we can repay harshness with kindness, anger with love, respond to pain and suffering with comfort, we will be tilting the balance ever so slightly towards light in the world rather than giving darkness more power. So we turn our attention inwards and examine our own hearts, fearlessly and honestly, see what is there, and dispel what is ignorant and selfish, filling ourselves instead with positivity, appreciation, gratitude and compassion for all living beings we encounter. F Robert Becker is an author and founding director of K o k a b u r r a C re e k Yo g a Ce n t re i n t h e Pe r t h h i l l s : www.kookaburracreek.com

A gentle, healing class with a therapeutic focus for people with cancer and carers led by our experienced teachers. These classes emphasise relaxation, breath awareness, gentle movement and meditation, leading practitioners towards self-healing. Kookaburra Creek: Wednesdays 9.30am-11.00am 210 Carradine Rd, Bedfordale (during school terms) Cancer Support WA: Wednesdays 9.00-10.00am Cost $8/$10. Free for Wellness Club members Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

By Rachel G. Norment

There is a powerful healing potential within our dreams if we are willing to take notice and listen to their wisdom. The word for “dream” in Hebrew is chalom and is derived from the verb meaning “to be made healthy or strong.” Ed Kellogg, Ph.D. in biochemistry from Duke University, a proficient lucid dreamer, has a long-standing interest in the phenomenology of dreaming. As part of the online PsiberDreaming Conference he presented a paper and workshop that looked at three kinds of healing dreams: diagnostic, prescriptive and curative.

Diagnostic Dreams Diagnostic dreams point to a developing situation in the body, something that has already begun or something that might develop in the future, sometimes years before the person has any outward physical signs of disease. The mind-body connection within us is so strong that our sleeping mind senses imbalances long before we become conscious of such, then brings the situation into our consciousness through dreams. These dreams can be literal or metaphorical. In a metaphorical dream, one’s car or house may have a problem. The car or house can represent the dreamer’s body; therefore its problem refers to something wrong with his or her body. If one has been working with dreams and is aware of his/her personal symbols, one might understand the dream well enough to seek help from a physician in time to prevent a full-fledged illness or forestall serious complications. In a literal dream a woman may dream of finding a lump in her breast, which leads her to contact her doctor.

Prescriptive Dreams Prescriptive dreams can suggest a form of medical treatment for an illness or beneficial diets and health practices for the dreamer. If foods are mentioned in a positive context, the particular food is likely to be beneficial if included in one’s diet. If presented in a negative context, the food might best be avoided.

Curative Dreams People experiencing curative dreams are healed “directly, through a mind-body-spirit integration effect, partially or completely. However, in most cases a curative healing dream only begins a process that will take time to complete,” according to Kellogg. Some people awaken healed or much improved following a healing dream. This is reminiscent of healings experienced centuries ago by people in ancient Greece who visited the temple of Aesclepius, where they might receive information in a dream to aid healing or even be healed directly. Kellogg reminds us that dreams may belong to one, two, or all three of these categories. “For example diagnostic healing dreams may also show the cause of a developing condition, which if eliminated might well halt or reverse the dis-ease process.” It is up to the dreamer to make the choice to do what is best after considering all the facts given by doctors and one’s dreams. I would like to add that someone may be “healed” even when not “cured.” This statement is based on the distinction between the meanings of the two words. The verb “to heal” is etymologically related to the Old English hal (whole); thus to heal, to restore to health, is to make whole. “To cure” is more accurately used as a medical term meaning “to get rid of a physical illness.” Healing can take place even when a cure is not possible. Therefore terminally ill patients may have healing

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MIND/BODY HEALING

dreams which help them understand themselves and peacefully accept their situations, and thus in a real sense become more whole, before they die. The discoveries in the 1980s of Candace Pert, Ph.D., a biophysics and physiology researcher, confirmed an intricate biochemical communication network between the body and mind. Since emotions play a major role in the mind/body phenomenon, Pert emphasized that for maximum functioning of the immune system it is important to free blocked emotions and find constructive ways to express them. Dreamwork is a way to do this. It is a complementary therapy that has been overlooked for too long. Wendy Pannier and Tallulah Lyons, members of IASD and founders of the HealingPower of Dreams Project, for the past decade have used dreamwork with cancer patients at The Wellness Communities in Philadelphia and Atlanta. They report: “We have seen how powerful dream imagery can be. We believe our work with dream imagery has application for other types of illness too – and for anyone seeking a fuller sense of wellness in life. We use the recognized and proven modality of visualisation/active imagination techniques and take them to the next level by customising them with the individual’s own dream imagery. This work falls into two primary categories: Transforming negative dream images (such as those from nightmares) and reinforcing positive and healing dream images by using them with imagery work in combination with other integrative medicine modalities.” A survey of their dream group participants found the following: Dreamwork brings about: • decreased feelings of anxiety and stress • an increased sense of connection with others • an increased sense of connection to inner resources • increased understanding of healing at multiple levels • an increased quality of life – particularly emotional, social and spiritual • increased feelings of control over life and health issues • increased feelings of hope • an understanding of how to live fully now, despite cancer. There are many techniques for exploring dreams. All methods emphasise the importance of experiencing the feelings in the dream and of connecting the feelings to waking life. Joining a dream group is the best way to explore one’s dreams.

Napaljarri-warnu Jukurrpa (Seven Sisters dreaming) Images by Alma Nungarrayi Granite.

The Napaljarri-warnu Jukurrpa (Seven sisters Dreaming) depicts the story of the seven ancestral Napaljarri sisters who are found in the night sky today in the cluster of seven stars in the constellation Taurus, more commonly known as the Pleiades. The Pleiades are seven women of the Napaljarri skin group and are often depicted in paintings of this Jukurrpa carrying the Jampijinpa man ‘Wardilyka‘ (the Bustard [Ardeotis australis]) who is in love with the Napaljarri-warnu and who represents the Orion’s Belt cluster of stars. Jukurra- jukurra, the morning star, is a Jakamarra man who is also in love with the seven Napaljarri sisters and is often shown chasing them across the night sky. In a final attempt to escape from the Jakamarra the Napaljarri-warnu turned themselves into fire and ascended to the heavens to become stars.

Dreamwork is beneficial for everyone, but can be especially helpful for persons experiencing serious illness. Dreamwork can become a journey toward recovery, toward wellness, toward wholeness and true healing. F From: www.healingpowerofdreams.com. First published in November 2007 Echo. Rachel G. Norment is the auhor of ‘Guided by Dreams: Breast Cancer, Dreams, and Transformation. She obtained her Master’s degree in Art Education from Vanderbilt University. An award-winning watercolour artist, she also has extensive training and experience in the study of dreams. Now a long-term survivor of breast cancer, she lives in Virginia in the USA. Rachel’s website featuring her art and writing is at: www.expressiveavenues.com. Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

Your dreams are important because they may hold the answers to lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dilemmas. Kathleen Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Keefe-Kanavos shares some facts about dreaming and two tips to help you get started with your own Dream Work Therapy.

Are you aware that you have an Inner-Freud, a personal therapist, who knows your every concern, fear, and secret and has the perfect solution for you? You have a direct line to profound FREE therapy that can circumvent years of traditional expensive psychotherapy or be used together with traditional therapy. By age 60, you will have slept an average of 175,200 hours, dreamed roughly 87,000 hours, and experienced about 197,100 dreams. Dreams have they been an area of study for centuries by some of the most brilliant minds in psychology, medicine and healing. Did you know that an average person dreams for about three hours each night during the five stages of sleep? Although we are still learning why we dream, we do know that our dreams occur most commonly in the fifth stage, known as the rapid eye movement (REM) stage. During REM the muscles of your body enter a state of deep relaxation while your brain becomes hyperactive, leading to dreams. Most dreamers forget 90% of their dreams when they wake up. Verbally voicing your intention to remember your dream before you go to sleep can help you retain more of your dreams, including the important parts that may contain healing information from our innate Inner-guidance, our Physician-within connected to our Higher Power. Dreams offer such powerful coding and decoding of the unconscious and subconscious that their messages can literally change your life for the better, forever. They can resolve nagging issues, mend broken relationships, and can be an important part of your healing journey. Your dreams can be a profound path to recovery. Dream Work Therapy can be healing medicine for the body and soul that can: 1. connect you to the love of your life 2. break the chains of negative habits and relationships that bind you 3. guide you into peace of mind 4. introduce you to your innate Inner Guidance 5. resolve residual life-issues that have remained a problem Dream Work Therapy uses the universal principles of dreaming and applies them to the action of Dream Work; working with your dreams.

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Here are two tips to help you get started: • The first step in beginning this therapy is dream-journaling. Keep a pencil and paper beside your bed. This intention to journal is the start of your dream journal journey. • Write down your dreams as soon as you awaken in the morning. This is the start of a dream journal. If you cannot remember the whole dream, write down the snip-its you do remember, including colors, numbers and the mood you were in when you awoke. Were you, sad, crying, angry, happy or laughing?

Dream with Dolphins. Image by Dolce Caramella

Your emotional state upon awakening may be a direct reflection of your dream state and that can be very therapeutic. This can be your first step in therapy. Embrace the information, no matter how painful or confusing. Dreams use Universal Symbolism for a language. This is the same symbolic language Dr. Freud used with his patients in psychotherapy. By writing down your dreams, you are learning to speak to yourself using your innate personal dream language that also uses Universal Symbolism. What does a specific symbol in your dream mean to you? What emotion does it evoke? The subjects, figures, animals, people and unusual beings in dreams are there to help you and teach you about aspects of yourself that have been ignored, unrealised or forgotten. That is the basis for Dream Work Therapy. It is easy. It is private and it’s all about you. F From: www.patheos.com. Kathleen O’Keefe-Kanavos is an Intuitive Life Coach who has survived three breast cancers and is the author of ‘Surviving CancerLand: Intuitive Aspects of Healing’ (Cypress House, Jan 2014) and the websites: Surviving Cancerland and AccessYourInnerGuide.

Enjoyed these articles about dreamwork? Books by both authors are now available in the Cancer Support WA library. Other new titles monthly. In Guided by Dreams: Breast Cancer, Dreams, and Transformation, author Rachel Norment takes us on a remarkable journey through her own breast cancer diagnosis and treatment. With wisdom and clarity, she reveals how knowledge gained through dream interpretation guided many of her decisions during treatment and recovery, and discusses over fifty of her personal dreams. Seven drawings and paintings drawn by the author and included here in full colour add a unique, visual dimension to her story and express her complex feelings and reactions to this life-transforming experience. Join Rachel as she shares how this life-threatening illness ultimately inspired her own spiritual and personal awakening.

Surviving Cancerland: Intuitive Aspects of Healing is Kathleen O’Keefe-Kanavos’ account of how she learned to stand in her power and speak her truth during a life crisis by connecting with her physician-within through dreams, meditations, and prayer. Believing in her intuition, Kathleen used it to self-advocate a course of cancer treatment in her healing process, often needing to persuade her doctors to cooperate with her. Don’t tell your Higher Power how big your problems are, Kathleen says. Tell your problems how big your Higher Power is! Kathleen believes you should work with your doctors, financiers, coworkers, bosses, and family, but never forget that you must make the final decisions. She hopes her story can help you make better choices, live a more fulfilling life, and discover your destiny. Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

MIND BODY HEALING

The universal principles of learning about dreams hold that every dream is about the dreamer and since human beings are multifaceted beings of both body and spirit, you can expand your awareness of different aspects of yourself by studying your dream figures and the messages they bring to you. You are in charge of your emotional and physical healing and your dreams are a door through which you can meet your Inner-therapist and Physician-within.

By Thich Nhat Hanh

Celebration of the Inner Child. Art by Danielle Helen Ray Dickson

The cry we hear from deep in our hearts, says Thich Nhat Hanh, comes from the wounded child within. Healing this inner child’s pain will transform negative emotions.

In each of us, there is a young, suffering child. We have all had times of difficulty as children and many of us have experienced trauma. To protect and defend ourselves against future suffering, we often try to forget those painful times. Every time we’re in touch with the experience of suffering, we believe we can’t bear it, and we stuff our feelings and memories deep down in our unconscious mind. It may be that we haven’t dared to face this child for many decades. But just because we may have ignored the child doesn’t mean she or he isn’t there. The wounded child is always there, trying to get our attention. The child says, “I’m here. I’m here. You can’t avoid me. You can’t run away from me.” We want to end our suffering by sending the child to a deep place inside, and staying as far away as possible. But running away doesn’t end our suffering; it only prolongs it. The wounded child asks for care and love, but we do the opposite. We run away because we’re afraid of suffering. The block of pain and sorrow in us feels overwhelming. Even if we have time, we don’t come home to ourselves. We try to keep ourselves constantly entertained – watching television or movies, socializing, or using alcohol or drugs – because we don’t want to experience that suffering all over again. The wounded child is there and we don’t even know she is there. The wounded child in us is a reality, but we can’t see her. That inability to see is a kind of ignorance. This child has been severely wounded. She or he really needs us to return. Instead we turn away. Ignorance is in each cell of our body and our consciousness. It’s like a drop of ink diffused in a glass of water. That ignorance stops us from seeing reality; it pushes us to do foolish things that make us suffer even more and wound again the already-wounded child in us. The wounded child is also in each cell of our body. There is no cell of our body that does not have that wounded child in it. We don’t have to look far into the past for that child. We only have to look deeply and we can be in touch with him. The suffering of that wounded child is lying inside us right now in the present moment. But just as the suffering is present in every cell of our body, so are the seeds of awakened understanding and happiness handed down to us from our ancestors. We just have to use them. We have a lamp inside us, the lamp of mindfulness, which we can light anytime. The oil of that lamp is our breathing, our steps, and our peaceful smile. We have to light up that lamp of mindfulness so the light will shine out and the darkness will dissipate and cease. Our practice is to light up the lamp. When we become aware that we’ve forgotten the wounded child in ourselves, we feel great compassion for that child and we begin to generate the energy of mindfulness. The practices of mindful walking, mindful sitting, and mindful breathing are our foundation. With our mindful

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MIND BODY HEALING

breath and mindful steps, we can produce the energy of mindfulness and return to the awakened wisdom lying in each cell of our body. That energy will embrace us and heal us, and will heal the wounded child in us.

Listening When we speak of listening with compassion, we usually think of listening to someone else. But we must also listen to the wounded child inside us. Sometimes the wounded child in us needs all our attention. That little child might emerge from the depths of your consciousness and ask for your attention. If you are mindful, you will hear his or her voice calling for help. At that moment, instead of paying attention to whatever is in front of you, go back and tenderly embrace the wounded child. You can talk directly to the child with the language of love, saying, “In the past, I left you alone. I went away from you. Now, I am very sorry. I am going to embrace you.” You can say, “I am here for you. I will take good care of you. I know you suffer so much. I have been so busy. I have neglected you, and now I have learned a way to come back to you.” If necessary, you have to cry together with that child. Whenever you need to, you can sit and breathe with the child. “Breathing in, I go back to my wounded child; breathing out, I take good care of my wounded child.”

Drawing by Tighe Moore, age 7

You have to talk to your child several times a day. Only then can healing take place. Embracing your child tenderly, you reassure him that you will never let him down again or leave him unattended. The little child has been left alone for so long. That is why you need to begin this practice right away. If you don’t do it now, when will you do it? If you know how to go back to her and listen carefully every day for five or ten minutes, healing will take place. When you climb a beautiful mountain, invite your child within to climb with you. When you contemplate the sunset, invite her to enjoy it with you. If you do that for a few weeks or a few months, the wounded child in you will experience healing. With practice, we can see that our wounded child is not only us. Our wounded child may represent several generations. Our mother may have suffered throughout her life. Our father may have suffered. Perhaps our parents weren’t able to look after the wounded child in themselves. So when we’re embracing the wounded child in us, we’re embracing all the wounded children of our past generations. This practice is not a practice for ourselves alone, but for numberless generations of ancestors and descendants. Our ancestors may not have known how to care for their wounded child within, so they transmitted their wounded child to us. Our practice is to end this cycle. If we can heal our wounded child, we will not only liberate ourselves, but we will also help liberate whoever has hurt or abused us. The abuser may also have been the victim of abuse. There are people who have practiced with their inner child for a long time who have had a lessening of their suffering and have experienced transformation. Their relationships with their family and friends have become much easier. We suffer because we have not been touched by compassion and understanding. If we generate the energy of mindfulness, understanding, and compassion for our wounded child, we will suffer much less. When we generate mindfulness, compassion and understanding become possible, and we can allow people to love us. Before, we may have been suspicious of everything and everyone. Compassion helps us relate to others and restore communication. The people around us, our family and friends, may also have a severely wounded child inside. If we’ve managed to help ourselves, we can also help them. When we’ve healed ourselves, our relationships with others become much easier. There’s more peace and more love in us. Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

Go back and take care of yourself. Your body needs you, your feelings need you, your perceptions need you. The wounded child in you needs you. Your suffering needs you to acknowledge it. Go home and be there for all these things. Practice mindful walking and mindful breathing. Do everything in mindfulness so you can really be there, so you can love.

The Energy of Mindfulness The energy of mindfulness is the salve that will recognize and heal the child within. But how do we cultivate this energy? We can divide consciousness into two parts. One part is mind consciousness and the other is store consciousness. Mind consciousness is our active awareness. Western psychology calls it “the conscious mind.” To cultivate the energy of mindfulness, we try to engage our active awareness in all our activities and be truly present with whatever we are doing. We want to be mindful as we drink our tea or drive through the city. When we walk, we want to be aware that we are walking. When we breathe, we want to be aware that we are breathing. Store consciousness, also called root consciousness, is the base of our consciousness. In Western psychology it’s called “the unconscious mind.” It’s where all our past experiences are stored. Store consciousness has the capacity to learn and to process information. Often our mind is not there with our body. Sometimes we go through our daily activities without mind consciousness being involved at all. We can do many things by means of store consciousness alone, and mind consciousness can be thinking of a thousand other things. For example, when we drive our car through the city, mind consciousness may not be thinking about driving at all, but we can still reach our destination without getting lost or having an accident. That is store consciousness operating on its own. Consciousness is like a house in which the basement is our store consciousness and the living room is our mind consciousness. Mental formations like anger, sorrow, or joy, rest in the store consciousness in the form of seeds. We have a seed of anger, despair, discrimination, fear; a seed of mindfulness, compassion; a seed of understanding, and so on. Store consciousness is made of the totality of the seeds, and it is also the soil that preserves and maintains all the seeds. The seeds stay there until we hear, see, read, or think of something that touches a seed and makes us feel the anger, joy, or sorrow. This is a seed coming up and manifesting on the level of mind consciousness, in our living room. Now we no longer call it a seed, but a mental formation. When someone touches the seed of anger by saying something or doing something that upsets us, that seed of anger will come up and manifest in mind consciousness as the mental formation of anger. The word “formation” is a term for something that’s

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created by many conditions coming together. A marker pen is a formation; my hand, a flower, a table, a house, are all formations. A house is a physical formation. My hand is a physiological formation. My anger is a mental formation. Varieties of seeds can manifest as mental formations. Anger is just one of them. In store consciousness, anger is called a seed. In mind consciousness, it’s called a mental formation. Whenever a seed, say the seed of anger, comes into our living room and manifests as a mental formation, the first thing we can do is touch the seed of mindfulness and invite it to come up too. Now we have two mental formations in the living room. This is mindfulness of anger. Mindfulness is always mindfulness of something. When we breathe mindfully, that is mindfulness of breathing. When we walk mindfully, that is mindfulness of walking. When we eat mindfully, that’s mindfulness of eating. So in this case, mindfulness is mindfulness of anger. Mindfulness recognises and embraces anger. Our practice is based on the insight of nonduality – anger is not an enemy. Both mindfulness and anger are ourselves. Mindfulness is there not to suppress or fight against anger, but to recognize and take care of it – like a big brother helping a younger brother. So the energy of anger is recognised and embraced tenderly by the energy of mindfulness. Every time we need the energy of mindfulness, we just touch that seed with our mindful breathing or mindful walking, smiling, and then we have the energy ready to do the work of recognising, embracing, and later on looking deeply and transforming. Whatever we’re doing, whether it’s cooking, sweeping, washing, walking, or being aware of our breathing, we can continue to generate the energy of mindfulness, and the seed of mindfulness in us will become strong. Within the seed of mindfulness is the seed of concentration. With these two energies, we can liberate ourselves from afflictions.

The Mind Needs Good Circulation We know there are toxins in our body. If our blood doesn’t circulate well, these toxins accumulate. In order to remain healthy, our body works to expel the toxins. When the blood circulates well, the kidneys and the liver can do their job to dispel toxins. We can use massage to help the blood circulate better. Our consciousness, too, may be in a state of bad circulation. We may have a block of suffering, pain, sorrow, or despair in us; it’s like a toxin in our consciousness. We call this an internal formation or internal knot. Embracing our pain and sorrow with the energy of mindfulness is the practice of massaging our consciousness. When the blood doesn’t circulate well, our organs can’t function properly, and we get sick. When our psyche doesn’t circulate well, our mind will become sick. Mindfulness stimulates and accelerates circulation throughout blocks of pain.

MIND/BODY HEALING

Occupying the Living Room Our blocks of pain, sorrow, anger, and despair always want to come up into our mind consciousness, into our living room, because they’ve grown big and need our attention. They want to emerge, but we don’t want these uninvited guests to come up because they’re painful to look at. So we try to block their way. We want them to stay asleep down in the basement. We don’t want to face them, so our habit is to fill the living room with other guests. Whenever we have ten or fifteen minutes of free time, we do anything we can to keep our living room occupied. We call a friend. We pick up a book. We turn on the television. We go for a drive. We hope that if the living room is occupied, these unpleasant mental formations will not come up. But all mental formations need to circulate. If we don’t let them come up, it creates bad circulation in our psyche, and symptoms of mental illness and depression begin to manifest in our mind and body. Sometimes when we have a headache, we take aspirin, but our headache doesn’t go away. Sometimes this kind of headache can be a symptom of mental illness. Perhaps we have allergies. We think it’s a physical problem, but allergies can also be a symptom of mental illness. We are advised by doctors to take drugs, but sometimes these will continue to suppress our internal formations, making our sickness worse.

Dismantling Barriers If we can learn not to fear our knots of suffering, we slowly begin to let them circulate up into our living room. We begin to learn how to embrace them and transform them with the energy of mindfulness. When we dismantle the barrier between the basement and the living room, blocks of pain will come up and we will have to suffer a bit. Our inner child may have a lot of fear and anger stored up from being down in the basement for so long. There is no way to avoid it. That is why the practice of mindfulness is so important. If mindfulness is not there, it is very unpleasant to have these seeds come up. But if we know how to generate the energy of mindfulness, it’s very healing to invite them up every day and embrace them. Mindfulness is a strong source of energy that can recognize, embrace, and take care of these negative energies. Perhaps these seeds don’t want to come up at first, perhaps there’s too much fear and distrust, so we may have to coax them a bit. After being embraced for some

Meditation is a powerful self-healing tool with profound benefits. Learn simple, effective meditation techniques in five weeks at Cancer Support WA’s Introduction to Meditation Course held on Thursdays 4pm-5pm. Register early to ensure you don’t miss out. Casual meditation sessions Mondays 9.30am. Book online: www.cancersupportwa.org.au Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

Cancer Support WA’s professional counselling service is for people with cancer, carers, children and families dealing with any aspect of cancer.

Adults, Kids & Family Counselling Counselling sessions with a caring, compassionate professional could help you deal more effectively with the many issues, fears and emotions which arise on the cancer journey; gain clarity to make treatment decisions; give you the insight to grow from your experiences; and the peace of mind and heart needed to heal. Sessions are available at our Cottesloe centre, your home or hospital. Sessions for adults, couples, families and children with fully qualified Counsellors by appointment.

Our professional counselling at our premises or yours is now free for Cancer Support WA members and families. Counselling Fee Rates Counselling session (one hour duration) Home/hospital visit

$50 members $75 public + $25 travel fee

Counselling sessions are available free to Cancer Support WA members and Wellness Club members. Free counselling sessions are limited to one session (1 hour) a week per family. Additional sessions can be booked at the rates advertised above.

Phone (08) 9384 3544 Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au 38 Cancer

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MIND/BODY HEALING PERSONAL MIND/BODYSTORY HEALING

free cancer counselling

time, a strong emotion will return to the basement and become a seed again, but weaker than before. Every time you give your internal formations a bath of mindfulness, the blocks of pain in you become lighter. So give your anger, your despair, your fear, a bath of mindfulness every day. After several days or weeks of bringing them up daily and helping them go back down again, you create good circulation in your psyche.

The Function of Mindfulness The first function of mindfulness is to recognize and not to fight. We can stop at any time and become aware of the child within us. When we recognize the wounded child for the first time, all we need to do is be aware of him or her and say hello. That’s all. Perhaps this child is sad. If we notice this we can just breathe in and say to ourselves, “Breathing in, I know that sorrow has manifested in me. Hello, my sorrow. Breathing out, I will take good care of you.” Once we have recognised our inner child, the second function of mindfulness is to embrace him or her. This is a very pleasant practice. Instead of fighting our emotions, we are taking good care of ourselves. Mindfulness brings with her an ally – concentration. The first few minutes of recognizing and embracing our inner child with tenderness will bring some relief. The difficult emotions will still be there, but we won’t suffer as much anymore. After recognising and embracing our inner child, the third function of mindfulness is to soothe and relieve our difficult emotions. Just by holding this child gently, we are soothing our difficult emotions and we can begin to feel at ease. When we embrace our strong emotions with mindfulness and concentration, we’ll be able to see the roots of these mental formations. We’ll know where our suffering has come from. When we see the roots of things, our suffering will lessen. So mindfulness recognizes, embraces, and relieves. The energy of mindfulness contains the energy of concentration as well as the energy of insight. Concentration helps us focus on just one thing. With concentration, the energy of looking becomes more powerful and insight is possible. Insight always has the power of liberating us. If mindfulness is there, and we know how to keep mindfulness alive, concentration will be there too. And if we know how to keep concentration alive, insight will also come. The energy of mindfulness enables us to look deeply and gain the insight we need so that transformation is possible. F Adapted from Reconciliation: Healing The Inner Child (2010) by Thich Nhat Hanh, published by Parallax Press, Berkeley, California. Thich Nhat Hanh is a Vietnamese Buddhist monk, poet, scholar, and human rights activist, who was nominated by Martin Luther King, Jr. for the Nobel Peace Prize.

MIND BODY HEALING

Shelby Moore, editor of Cancer Support WA’s blog, chats with our new counsellor Stephanie Elvin about her role and vision for the organisation. What is your role at Cancer Support WA?

To provide counselling services to clients and their families.

What are your qualifications?

Bachelor degree in Counselling from the University of Notre Dame, Fremantle; Group Facilitation Training Course through Holyoake; Family Therapy Certificate through William Street Family Therapy; Art Therapy Certificate IV through Art Process Works; Narrative Therapy training with the Dulwich Centre; Third Degree Reiki Training.

Tell me about your experience

I have ten years experience working in the field of counselling in private practice with individual clients (adults & children), families and group facilitation. I have previously worked for BentleyArmadale Medicare Local as a registered counsellor with clients referred from the local hospitals and GPs. I also have experience working for organisations such as South Coastal Women’s Health, Palmerston, Relationships Australia, YMCA, Holyoake, Centre Care.

Why is Cancer Support WA special?

I have had some personal experience with Cancer Support WA when my grandfather was ill with mesothelioma and passed away in 1990. My maternal grandmother (whom I am still very close to) and I attended there to go to yoga, and meditation groups, and receive other support that was beneficial to us at this time. We both were introduced to Reiki then at Cancer Support; my grandmother went on to become a Reiki Master and also taught me this art of healing.

What does Wellness mean to you?

‘Wellness’ to me incorporates mental, emotional and physical aspects and for many people spirituality also plays a key role in being well and finding peace in life. A sense of belonging is an important part of what it means to be human, we are relational beings and therefore our relationships have a large bearing on how well we are as individuals. In my work I have seen how important support systems are for our health and ability to thrive and heal. Whether that support come from family, friends, community/ and professional support that is available and accessible. Wellness to me also depends on the individual’s willingness and ability to self-care, nurture; to be kind and gentle to ourselves when we need it. To listen and recognise what it is we need and long for is a skill that is learned and it takes practice to develop this self-awareness and mindfulness. I believe quiet, space, support, and kindness can lead us in the right direction on the continuum towards greater wellness and ability to thrive. I am here at Cancer Support WA to provide a supportive space and a professional, therapeutic relationship for people to access and engage in. F If you would like to make an appointment with Stephanie please call on (08) 9384 3544 or email info@cancersupportwa.org.au. Phone and skype counselling sessions are also available To read Cancer WA’s blog go to our new website: www.cancersupportwa.org.au. Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

Infographic from: www.healthcentral.com. Article on following pagefrom: elephantjournal.com. Article by Rachel Astarte Piccione, transformational coach and the author of Celebrating Solitude, a self-empowerment guide.

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MIND/BODY HEALING

Many, many books have been written about meditation. I’ve read a good number of them, from Zen Buddhist practices to Kundalini yoga. I began meditating at the age of 21. My regular practice was shoddy at times, to say the least. I often felt I couldn’t sacrifice an hour of my day to sit and do nothing. Think nothing. After all, that’s the principle of most meditation practices: Strive to have no thoughts. When I meditated, a thought arose and my conscious mind said, “That’s bad. I’m supposed to have no thoughts. I have to stretch out the space between thoughts. I suck at this!” And then I had to start over. It wasn’t until I began studying Dzogchen, a Tibetan Buddhist teaching, that I realised meditation had a much broader definition. In Dzogchen, the idea is to clear the mind of “dual” thoughts. That is, judgments about what is good and bad, worthy and useless, etc. Thoughts will arise – we’re conscious beings – but attach no significance to them. As Dzogchen master Chögyal Namkhai Norbu says, we should observe thoughts as a mirror reflects images. They are just there. Then they move away. The mirror does not judge the images as right or wrong, good or bad. Other techniques suggest you consider thoughts as you would clouds in the sky. We’d never try to hold onto a cloud. That’s silly. Not to mention impossible. We let it float across the sky, without judgment. There’s no, “Man, that cloud is stupid.” I don’t know about you, but I found this lesson to be a great relief. Now I could sit, be peaceful, and let my random thoughts float across the sky of my mind, free from the burden of categorising or valuing them. It’s with this premise that you can begin your meditation practice. We’ve established that our regenerative energy needs solitude to thrive. Sometimes our minds become so cluttered with the stresses of our life that no matter what activities we use to unwind and reconnect with Self – reading, writing, seeing a film, taking a bath – the stress never lets us fully recharge. In that way, meditation is a helpful tool. Now, before you dismiss the idea of meditating as being too lofty for you, give it a try. Even if you’ve tried before and disliked it, try again. You may find this helpful: Your meditation sessions don’t have to be an hour long. Or even half an hour. You can start with five minutes. Or two. A full 120 seconds devoted to clearing the mind and relaxing your body will do wonders for 24 hours straight of daily stress. Besides, even the busiest parent or CEO has the ability let go of the daily grind for 120 seconds. This meditation practice is designed to be done quickly, but keep in mind that it must be done fully, with awareness and positive intention. You’re devoting a minimum of two minutes to your own health. Take it seriously. Ideally you’ll want to practice this meditation every day.

Go to your sacred space. Light your candles and/or incense. Whatever your

Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

By Anne Webster PhD To cancer survivors, health is not simply the absence of illness. Survivors face all sorts of physical, psychological, social, behavioral, and spiritual challenges. Cancer creates a great deal of fear, anxiety, sadness, anger, and even panic. Maintaining optimism and resiliency is often difficult.

spirituality, volunteering, and self-transformation. Close your eyes and think of what you want, and when you have answers, write them down. Take small steps to attain your goals. Doing what gives your life meaning gives you a sense of commitment, control, and resiliency.

In my Mind/Body Cancer Program, I offer people with cancer a variety of self-care techniques that enable them to decrease stress and take an active role in living fully in mind, body, and spirit. These techniques, which have been proven effective by research, enhance your positive emotions, which, in turn, optimise health and well-being.

Create an “attitude of gratitude” list. Each day, write about things you are grateful for. It is easy to get caught up in all the details of cancer and forget there are many things and people in your life that you appreciate.

Especially important is to learn to quiet your mind and calm your body. Do this by eliciting the “relaxation response,” which is a state of peacefulness. It decreases sympathetic nervous system activity, reduces stress hormones, and quiets the noise of your mind. The relaxation response is the opposite of a stress response and is the foundation of everything I teach. Techniques include meditation, yoga, progressive muscle relaxation, diaphragmatic breathing, visualisation, prayer and self-hypnosis. These practices help you to stay in the moment and experience inner stillness. Relaxation is an important step in the process of healing. Laugh more often. Laughter gives your immune system a boost. Another tip for staying positive is what I call “news and goods.” Every day for the rest of your life, do something new or good for yourself. These do not have to be big deals or cost a lot of money. You might treat yourself to some delicious dark chocolate, take an aromatherapy bath instead of a shower, call a friend, or walk in nature. These things perk up your spirits very quickly. As distressing as cancer can be, people with cancer sometimes find benefits. They often say, “How come it took cancer to get me to ‘wake up?’” Things that used to be important no longer are, while other things become vital. People change careers, experience increased spirituality, and develop more intense relationships with family and friends. Research has called this “benefit finding” or “resiliency.” Both create positive emotions. Create some quiet time, sit down with paper and pen, and ask yourself these big questions: “What is really meaningful in my life now?” “Why am I here?” “What are the gifts I have to give?” Then focus on the following: career/education, relationships, creativity, play, health, material objects,

Cancer Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au

Do some sort of physical exercise every day. If you cannot do the exercises that you used to do, go for a walk, or take a yoga or Tai Chi class. Exercise improves your stamina, mood, and immune system. When dealing with cancer, and everything else that life brings you, your mind becomes very busy. If you pay attention, you might discover that you do a lot of “catastrophising,” jumping to conclusions, and wishing. Maybe you make up huge stories about what might happen, or you ruminate about the past. Your negative thoughts create negative emotions. If you write down these negative thoughts, you will recognize that many of them are illogical, not helpful, and often not true. Ask yourself, “Is this helping me right now?” Replace negative thoughts with more rational and positive ways of thinking. You will find that when you change your mind, you can change your mood. Research shows that positive thoughts and emotions can have effects beyond making you “feel good” in the moment. They create new ways of thinking, enhance optimism, and buffer you from future stress. Laugh more often. Spend time with people who make you laugh. Laughter has many health benefits, according to research. It releases beta-endorphins (natural painkillers), so pain is reduced, and your mood is improved. Best of all, laughter gives your immune system a boost. It is my hope that in practicing some of these simple techniques, you will feel more peaceful, optimistic, and energetic. You may feel more connected to yourself and the world around you and discover a more inspired way of living. F Dr. Ann Webster is the director of the Mind/Body Programs for Cancer and for HIV+/AIDS at the Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital. This article was first published in Coping with Cancer magazine, copingmag.com.

a series of courses to introduce you to a new way of living and change your life! Cancer Support WA is a pioneer of the wellness approach to cancer and has developed a comprehensive wellness program addressing the key areas of health, healing and wellbeing. Our 5 week wellness courses delve deeply into the five key areas of wellness. Each course is 1-2 hours per week for five weeks. If you are a Wellness Club member you can do all five courses over the year for only $30 a month. Please see our 2014 program or website for dates, times, cost and more details.

journey to wellness

This course provides an overview of the key areas of the wellness approach to cancer including: how to cope with cancer; lifestyle; diet and nutrition; developing personal and practical resources; meditation and exercise; integrating natural medicine and complementary therapies. The course also goes deeply into emotional healing. Informative, practical sessions and demonstrations with notes and home practices. Upcoming dates: 7th October

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healing yoga This course guides participants through the healing practices of yoga, breathwork, relaxation and meditation. Yoga is a holistic system of wellbeing and health which restores balance, energy and wellbeing to the body and brings peace and calmness to the mind. Yoga also connects the practitioner to their higher self and awakens the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s innate healing potential. Course includes home practices and notes. Upcoming dates: 6th November

introduction to meditation

Meditation is potentially the single most important aspect of cancer wellness because of the profound healing benefits associated with regular practice. This course structured sessions where participants are guided in practices and taught techniques which help them concentrate better, meditate deeply, replenish energy levels, counter stress, cultivate inner peace and promote healing. Notes and home practices given. Upcoming dates: 25th September

healing foods for cancer

We all know food is medicine, but do you know which foods and how to prepare them for maximum healing effect? This course provides a comprehensive introduction to eating for cancer recovery. Lots of information given on whole foods, raw foods, superfoods, juicing, fermenting, sprouting, organic gardening and more! Practical demonstrations and delicious tastings of juices, sprouts anddelicious dishes! Recipes and notes given. Upcoming dates: 25th September

NEW create a healthy home

Art by Ira Mitchell-Kirk

Your home is your sanctuary! Your immediate environment is so important to your wellbeing on every level. There are many steps you can take to ensure that your home is conducive to your healing and recovery. This course shows how to create the healthiest home possible. Topics covered include: make your own chemical-free personal care and cleaning products; organic gardening and eating; feng shui; aromatherapy; water and air quality control. Practical demonstrations and notes given. Upcoming dates: 5th August Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

continued...

INTEGRATIVE THERAPIES

5 Week Wellness Courses

a wonderfully,

fulfilling life Karen Crutchlow is a Cancer Support WA member and a founding member of CANsurvive cancer support group in Busselton. Karen shares her inspiring personal story for the You Are Beautiful fundraising campaign.

What I promised my two young daughters, Rachael and Annie, when I broke the news to them in 2006 that I had been diagnosed with an invasive breast cancer, was that I would show them they didn’t have to be afraid of cancer. I don’t know why I said that because, at the time, we were caring for their Grandma who we knew was dying from cancer…but say it I did! That was eight years ago. Today I still have cancer and yet I’m fitter & healthier than I was at the time of my diagnosis. How can that be you may wonder? Well, I turned my attention to the areas of my life that were compromising my health. I knew I had to give greater attention to my diet; become reconciled with some past experiences & my interpretations of them; consider the intensity with which I worked & come to know who I really am – not whom others expected or wanted me to be. Just weeks after undergoing a lumpectomy & complete node excision; feeling vulnerable, frightened and confused because I was struggling with the advice from my specialists, I had nowhere, it seemed, to turn for any direction or guidance in finding a healing path. Thankfully, one sunny Tuesday, I came across the Cancer Support Association (now known as Cancer Support WA) in Cottesloe, Perth. On that day, the members and facilitators of the Tuesday Support Group helped me realise that the road ahead needn’t be one that had to be travelled alone, or one of complete darkness. It was they who shone the torch that lit up the road on which I took my first steps. My journey had begun! To date, with the support and love of my family, friends and the amazing people who have come into my life; beautiful, fresh, wholesome food; a growing appreciation of myself and

Cancer Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au

my place in our amazing world, I live a wonderfully fulfilling life…even though I live it with cancer. Every day is a day dedicated to the enjoyment I have for life and every day is a day I live well with cancer. So, until I can say to you that cancer is something in my past, I will continue to live incredibly well, despite having cancer. One of the reasons that I decided to become a part of the You Are Beautiful campaign is that I know, first hand, of the amazing support on offer at Cancer Support WA. I also know, as a founding member of CANsurvive, a support group here in Busselton that is affiliated with Cancer Support WA, just how supportive they have been in helping our support group get off to a flying start here within our community. Despite living in a regional area, hundreds of kilometres from Perth, Cancer Support WA offer training for our facilitators, workshops to our region, advice & support for the projects we run and a helping hand whenever we need it. It’s yet another way that Cancer Support WA provide access to all they have on offer to people with cancer and their families in regional areas. If you are able to help me to raise funds to support the diversity of work that Cancer Support WA provides, please do so by giving whatever you can. Not only will I appreciate it but also the thousands of people who currently use their programs and services and the thousands who will use it in the future. F You Are Beautiful is a photographic fundraising campaign with all money raised going to Cancer Support WA. To support our incredible participants including Karen, or to join the campaign, go to our website to find out more: youarebeautiful. gofundraise.com.au

PERSONAL STORY

By Irene Goss-Werner, MSW, LICSW Communicating your needs when you have cancer may seem straightforward, but for many people, self-advocacy can be daunting. However, once you learn some basic self-advocacy skills, you’ll find communicating your needs to your medical team, partner, family, friends, or colleagues will allow others to be involved in your care in the ways you want them to be. By using the following purposeful, thoughtful approaches to communication, you’ll be better able to let others know what is and is not helpful, while enabling yourself to set limits and more easily express your concerns.

Clarify what you need

Don’t assume that others will automatically know what you need. Your support system may be unsure of what is most helpful to you. They also may be struggling with the desire to be supportive while respecting your privacy. Thus, your specific input can provide needed clarification for those who want to help. You can give concrete suggestions for how a person can help, such as doing your grocery shopping, preparing or delivering meals, driving your children to and from school, or helping take care of your pet. If you find comfort in the attentive presence of a friend, you might simply suggest that person drop by for a visit. Additionally, it’s important to clarify your needs to your medical team, as they need to know what is most helpful to you in order to optimise your care.

Have your feelings heard

Communicating your feelings is a positive way to relate with others, opening a window to your innermost self. This can be a stepping-stone toward resolving unmet or unidentified needs. However, sometimes when you’re trying to express your feelings, a well-intentioned friend may focus on problemsolving and making recommendations rather than being a truly attentive listener. You might find yourself teaching others when you simply need an ear to listen instead of practical assistance. Having your feelings genuinely heard by another provides validation and a witness to what you’re experiencing. If you find comfort in the attentive presence of a friend, you might simply suggest that person drop by for a visit.

Give yourself permission to ask for help

You may be concerned that if you ask for help, others will see you as a burden and will feel overwhelmed or uncomfortable. Perhaps before your diagnosis, you often fulfilled the role of caregiver and you now feel that you are disappointing those you once provided care for by being unable to maintain that role. You may feel guilty or worry you’re acting selfishly, but those close to you likely understand and genuinely want to help you. Letting people know some of your concrete needs gives them the opportunity to actively participate in this experience with you, which may in turn help them better cope with your situation, as they will know they are making a difference. Framing a request can take a range of forms, such as “I wonder if it would be possible for you to …” or “You know I am so used to being independent that asking for help is difficult, but it would be helpful if you …”

One person doesn’t have to meet all your needs It may be most comfortable and productive to allow more than one person to help out. However, identifying a point person to function as the main communicator among your support system who will organize tasks and schedules can be useful. While this type of resource may not be an option, be receptive to those who are available and who want to be involved in helping you through this time.

Set limits

As you focus on promoting self-care, be intentional about setting limits. For example, watch the length of time you spend talking on the phone, entertaining visitors, working on the computer, or doing household tasks. Your support system may not realize your level of fatigue or diminished stamina, so it’s important to let them know when you need to rest. Advocating for yourself in this way may feel awkward or uncomfortable at first, but keep trying. You’ll find clear, concise communication is the best way to get the support you need. F Irene Goss-Werner MSW, LICSW is a clinical social worker in the Gynecologic Oncology program at Dana Farber/Brigham and Women’s Cancer Center in Boston, US. First published in Coping with Cancer magazine, January/February 2014 copingmag.com.

wea new havewebsite. a new Let website! Cancer Support WA have us know what you think: cancersupportwa.org.au www.cancersupportwa.org.au

Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

Home sweet home, that’s the way we think of our living space, isn’t it? You should be safe and secure in your own home, right? Would you be surprised if someone told you your home was most likely filled with carcinogens? It doesn’t have to be this way, however. Here is a list of the top 12 simple ways you can remove many carcinogens from your house and protect the lives of you and your family. 1. Filter your home’s water Most town water supplies are loaded with toxic chemicals such as fluoride, chlorine, even arsenic. A simple jug with a built in filter for your drinking water and a filter on your shower (or you could even install a whole house filtration system) will remove almost 100 per cent of those carcinogens.

2. Ditch teflon pans, plastic containers, and canned foods All of these items contain toxic chemicals so pitch your nonstick pans for cast iron cookware Never use plastic containers to cook or to heat food in the microwave, use glass instead. Then forget canned foods and stick to either glass containers or cook it fresh. Simple changes that will remove many toxins from your home.

3. Remove your shoes The Japanese have the right idea. It’s a custom in their country to remove your shoes at the door and put on house slippers that are never worn outside. Why? Think of what is on the bottom of your shoes besides dirt? Pesticide residues, oil, lead, and countless other chemicals. Don’t bring all those toxins into the house to begin with, leave them at the door.

4. Keep the air clean and clear Keep the air inside your home clean and clear but not with those sprays, or gels. Research shows that women who use canned air fresheners are more likely to develop breast cancer. So freshen the air in your home naturally with baking soda, natural potpourri, or a simmering pot of water and cinnamon sticks.

5. Ditch products with parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate or oxybenzone Among others. These are just a few of the dangerous chemicals that are lurking in your body care products such as shampoo and lotions. These chemicals cause hormone problems and serious health risks. Even the EPA admits that there are more than 80,000 chemicals used every day and only a very small portion of them have ever been tested. Don’t let your body be someone else’s guinea pig. Ditch the chemicals and find more natural alternatives.

6. Throw out those cleaning chemicals Those household cleaning chemicals and pesticides that are in the garage and under your kitchen sick are probably one of the biggest sources of carcinogens in your home. Do you realize that all those toxins are absorbed into your skin while you are cleaning the tub, sink, etc.? You don’t really need them so throw them out and make your own natural cleansers using baking soda, vinegar, or lemon juice.The internet is filled with natural cleaning recipes. Use them!

Cancer Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au

LIFESTYLE & ENVIRONMENT

7. Check your home for radon gas Radon is a natural, but radioactive gas, formed by the uranium in the earth as it breaks down. Radon gas can enter your home through tiny cracks in the building materials, through well water, or even through cracks in your homes foundation. Testing is easy and if there is contamination, it’s easier and cheaper to fix than you might think. Be safe, be sure, buy a testing kit and check your home today.

8. Say no To electric blankets Electric blankets, although warm and cozy, are lined with wiring and metal coils that produce EMF’s. Sleeping under one is like wearing an antenna all night, asking for overexposure. Give your electric blanket to your dog (just don’t plug it in) and put a down comforter on your bed if you need added warmth.

9. Switch from synthetic to natural fibres Synthetic sheets, carpeting, even furniture covers are made from petrochemicals and they are frequently given additional flame retardant chemical treatments. Change your bedding to organic cotton or linen materials and your carpets for organically made floor coverings like sisal or bamboo. When you buy new furniture, just say no to those stain resistant sprays they offer.

10. Check your toothpaste Read the label on your toothpaste lately? Almost all of them are full of triclosan, artificial flavors, artificial colors, and fluoride. None of these chemicals are good for your body. Look for more natural toothpastes or make your own out of baking soda and organic peppermint oil. The internet is full of natural recipes to clean and whiten your teeth..

11. Sleep naturally clean To help keep the toxins that are inside your mattress use an organic, waterproof cover to keep you from inhaling all those toxic chemicals. You might also want to consider buying an organic mattress topper as an extra layer of protection. If it’s time for a new mattress, look for one made out of natural fibres like cotton or wool.

12. Don’t knowingly eat carcinogens We all like to think that we are eating healthy, wholesome foods, but for many people, that is simply not the case. Whenever you choose to eat prepackaged or processed foods, you are choosing to fill your body with known carcinogens and toxic chemicals. Eat smart, eat whole, organic foods and watch your health improve with every meal. From: naturalon.com

Cancer Wellness Shop

NEW! Online Shop

Dedicated to supplying safe, effective and organic products to support you on your wellness journey. Our shop stocks products in the following categories: SUPERFOODS SUPPLEMENTS

HOUSEHOLD BOOKS

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Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

INSPIRATIONS Organic food has more of the antioxidant compounds linked to better health than regular food, and lower levels of toxic metals and pesticides, according to the most comprehensive scientific analysis to date. The international team behind the work suggests that switching to organic fruit and vegetables could give the same benefits as adding one or two portions of the recommended “five a day”. The team, led by Prof Carlo Leifert at Newcastle University in the UK, concludes that there are “statistically significant, meaningful” differences, with a range of antioxidants being “substantially higher” – between 19% and 69% – in organic food. It is the first study to demonstrate clear and wide-ranging differences between organic and conventional fruits, vegetables and cereals. The researchers say the increased levels of antioxidants are equivalent to “one to two of the five portions of fruits and vegetables recommended to be consumed daily and would therefore be significant and meaningful in terms of human nutrition, if information linking these [compounds] to the health benefits associated with increased fruit, vegetable and whole grain consumption is confirmed”.

Research is first to find wide-ranging differences between organic and conventional fruits, vegetables and cereals.

The findings will bring to the boil a long-simmering row over whether those differences mean organic food is better for people, with one expert calling the work sexed up. Tom Sanders, a professor of nutrition at King’s College London, said the research did show some differences. “But the question is are they within natural variation? And are they nutritionally relevant? I am not convinced.” The research was peer-reviewed and is published in a respected scientific journal, the British Journal of Nutrition. It was due to be released next week, but has appeared on several academic websites. The results are based on an analysis of 343 peer-reviewed studies from around the world – more than ever before – which examine differences between organic and conventional fruit, vegetables and cereals. “The crucially important thing about this research is that it shatters the myth that how we farm does not affect the quality of the food we eat,” said Helen Browning, chief executive of Soil Association, which campaigns for organic farming. Plants produce many of their antioxidant compounds to fight back against pest attacks, so the higher levels in organic crops may result from their lack of protection by chemical sprays. But the scientists say other reasons may be important, such as organic varieties being bred for toughness and not being overfed with artificial fertilisers. Leifert and his colleagues conclude that many antioxidants “have previously been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative diseases and certain cancers”. But they also note that no long-term studies showing health benefits from a broad organic diet have yet been conducted. The researchers found much higher levels of cadmium, a toxic metal, in conventional crops. Pesticide residues were found on conventional crops four times more often than on organic food. The research was funded by the EU and an organic farming charity. The research is certain to be criticised: the inclusion of so many studies in the analysis could mean poor quality work skews the results, although the team did “sensitivity analyses” and found that excluding weaker work did not significantly change the outcome.

Cancer Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au

FOOD AND NUTRITION

Also, the higher levels of cadmium and pesticides in conventional produce were still well below regulatory limits. But the researchers say cadmium accumulates over time in the body and that some people may wish to avoid this, and that pesticide limits are set individually, not for the cocktail of chemicals used on crops. A further criticism is that the differences seen may result from different climate, soil types and crop varieties, and not from organic farming, though the researchers argue that combining many studies should average out these other differences. The greatest criticism, however, will be over the suggestions of potential health benefits. The most recent major analysis, which took in 223 studies in 2012, found little evidence. “The published literature lacks strong evidence that organic foods are significantly more nutritious than conventional foods,” it found. This was also the conclusion of earlier, smaller studies published in 2009 in a scientific journal and by the UK Food Standards Agency, though the latter considered just 11 studies. The 2012 study did note that eating organic food might help people avoid pesticide residues. Soil Association polling shows healthy eating (55%) and avoiding chemical residues (53%) are key reasons cited by shoppers for buying organic produce. But many also say care for the environment (44%) and animal welfare (31%) are important, as is taste (35%). Browning said: “This research backs up what people think about organic food. In other countries there has long been much higher levels of support and acceptance of the benefits of organic food and farming.” F From: The Guardian, www.theguardian.com 11th July 2014. Article by Damian Carrington and George Arnett.

Cancer Resources Directory Are you looking for organic food suppliers in Western Australia or online? Cancer Support WA’s new website features a comprehensive, searchable directory of supplies and services, specific to people with cancer. Search the following categories:

WA Cancer Resources Natural Health Practitioners National and International Clinics

GPs (integrative) Organic Foods and Supplies Cancer Services

Cancer Specialists Complementary Therapies Support Services

www.cancersupportwa.org.au

Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

By Sayer Ji Turmeric is one the most thoroughly researched plants in existence today. Its medicinal properties and components (primarily curcumin) have been the subject of over 5600 peer-reviewed and published biomedical studies. In fact, our five-year long research project on this sacred plant has revealed over 600 potential preventive and therapeutic applications, as well as 175 distinct beneficial physiological effects. Given the sheer density of research performed on this remarkable spice, it is no wonder that a growing number of studies have concluded that it compares favorably to a variety of conventional medications, including: 1. Lipitor/Atorvastatin (cholesterol medication): A 2008 study published in the journal, Drugs in R & D, found that a standardized preparation of curcuminoids from Turmeric compared favorably to the drug atorvastatin (trade name Lipitor) on endothelial dysfunction, the underlying pathology of the blood vessels that drives atherosclerosis, in association with reductions in inflammation and oxidative stress in type 2 diabetic patients. 2. Corticosteroids (steroid medications): A 1999 study published in the journal, Phytotherapy Research, found that the primary polyphenol in turmeric, the saffron colored pigment known as curcumin, compared favorably to steroids in the management of chronic anterior uveitis, an inflammatory eye disease. A 2008 study published in Critical Care Medicine found that curcumin compared favorably to the corticosteroid drug dexamethasone in the animal model as an alternative therapy for protecting lung transplantation-associated injury by down-regulating inflammatory genes. An earlier 2003 study published in Cancer Letters found the same drug also compared favorably to dexamethasone in a lung ischaemia-repurfusion injury model. 3. Prozac/Fluoxetine & Imipramine (antidepressants): A 2011 study published in the journal, Acta Poloniae Pharmaceutica, found that curcumin compared favorably to both drugs in reducing depressive behavior in an animal model. 4. Aspirin (blood thinner): A 1986 in vitro and ex vivo study published in the journal, Arzneimittelforschung, found that curcumin has anti-platelet and prostacyclin modulating effects compared to aspirin, indicating it may have value in patients prone to vascular thrombosis and requiring anti-arthritis therapy. 5. – 12. Anti-inflammatory Drugs: A 2004 study published in the journal, Oncogene, found that curcumin (as well as

Cancer Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au

resveratrol) were effective alternatives to the drugs aspirin, ibuprofen, sulindac, phenylbutazone, naproxen, indomethacin, diclofenac, dexamethasone, celecoxib, and tamoxifen in exerting anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative activity against tumour cells. 13. Oxaliplatin (chemotherapy drug): A 2007 study published in the International Journal of Cancer found that curcumin compares favorably with oxaliplatin as an antiproliferative agent in colorectal cell lines. 14. Metformin (diabetes drug): A 2009 study published in the journal, Biochemitry and Biophysical Research Community, explored how curcumin might be valuable in treating diabetes, finding that it activates AMPK (which increases glucose uptake) and suppresses gluconeogenic gene expression (which suppresses glucose production in the liver) in hepatoma cells. Interestingly, they found curcumin to be 500 times to 100,000 times (in the form known as tetrahydrocurcuminoids(THC)) more potent than metformin in activating AMPK and its downstream target acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC). Another way in which turmeric and its components reveal their remarkable therapeutic properties is in research on drug resistant- and multi-drug resistant cancers. We have found no less than 54 studies indicating that curcumin can induce cell death or sensitize drug-resistant cancer cell lines to conventional treatment. We have identified 27 studies on curcumin’s ability to either induce cell death or sensitize multi-drug resistant cancer cell lines to conventional treatment. Considering how strong a track record turmeric (curcumin) has, having been used as both food and medicine in a wide range of cultures, for thousands of years, a strong argument can be made for using curcumin as a drug alternative or adjuvant in cancer treatment. Or, better yet, use certified organic (non-irradiated) turmeric in lower culinary doses on a daily basis so that heroic doses won’t be necessary later in life after a serious disease sets in. Nourishing yourself, rather than self-medicating with ‘nutraceuticals,’ should be the goal of a healthy diet. F From: themindunleashed.org. Original article includes full references. Sayer Ji is a widely recognised researcher, author, and lecturer, Steering Committee Member of the Global GMO Free Coalition (GGFC), an advisory board member of the National Health Federation and the founder of the world’s most widely referenced, evidence-based natural health resource of its kind Greenmedinfo.com which is a resource supporting natural and integrative modalities.

FOOD AND NUTRITION

This winter, we discovered Golden Milk or Turmeric Tea, and fell in love with its astringent, but smooth and bright flavour. I often make it now instead of the hot chocolates, molasses milks and herbal chai my family loves. This drink is deeply nutritious combining some of the most powerful medicinal plants on the planet.

Turmeric and Ginger

Turmeric and ginger are rhizomes, and while they look like roots, they’re actually the subterraneous stems of tropical plants. Both turmeric and ginger have long been lauded for their medicinal as well as culinary properties, and often season the traditional foods of south Asian kitchens. When you peel away the papery skin that envelops the turmeric rhizome, it reveals a brilliant orange color. This orange pigment colors the foods in which it is cooked, and gives Golden Milk its characteristic yellow-gold colour. It is also this pigment, as well as other components found in turmeric, that contribute to its strong antioxidant capacity. While turmeric has long-been used in traditional south Asian folk medicine, only recently have researchers begun looking into its effects on various cancers, cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes. Curcumin, a component of turmeric, is strongly anti-inflammatory.

Golden Milk: Creamy Turmeric and Ginger Tea

Ginger, like turmeric, offers strong antioxidant capacity and has similarly enjoyed a long history of use in folk medicine where it is traditionally used to easy stomach upset or to ease the discomfort caused by flus and colds. Preliminary research also links ginger to slowed tumour growth and to the inhibition of the growth of cancerous ovarian cells, though ginger’s affect on cancer is poorly understood and warrants more research.

Ingredients 1 1-inch knob fresh turmeric 1 1/2-inch knob fresh ginger 2 teaspoons ghee 1 cup full-fat coconut milk 1 cup coconut water 1 tablespoon manuka honey

Ghee

Directions Peel both the turmeric and ginger, then grate them finely into a mortar. Spoon the ghee into the mortar, and grind into the turmeric and ginger with your pestle until they form a fine paste.

When I prepare my Golden Milk, I begin first by combining freshly grated ginger and turmeric with organic ghee to form a fine paste. Long used in Ayurvedic cooking, ghee is a type of clarified butter. Ghee prepared from the butter of grass-fed cows is extraordinarily rich in fat-soluble vitamins A and K2; it is also a good source of conjugated linoleic acid, a healthy fat with anticarcinogenic properties. Turmeric and ginger, both rich in antioxidants, also work synergistically together with ghee, as ghee, and other healthy fats, enable those fat-soluble nutrients to be better absorbed.You can purchase organic ghee in many health food stores, as well as online.

Manuka Honey

Manuka honey is a single varietal honey from New Zealand with a thick texture and a strong, almost medicinal flavor. It is rich in antioxidants and has strong antimicrobial properties. Due to demand and relatively limited supply, Manuka honey is expensive, and any raw honey can be substituted for it in this recipe with little change in flavour. F From: nourishedkitchen.com. Article and recipe by Jenny McGruther is a cooking instructor specialising in real and traditional foods. She started Nourished Kitchen in 2007.

Pour the coconut milk and coconut water into a saucepan, and spoon in the paste made with turmeric, ginger and ghee. Turn the heat up to medium-high and warm the ingredients together until little bubbles just begin to creep up the sides of the pot. Turn off the heat and cover the saucepan, allowing the turmeric and ginger to steep about 3 minutes. Strain the golden milk through a finemesh strainer or tea strainer into a tea pot. Stir in the Manuka honey and continue stirring until it dissolves. Serve warm. Note: Golden milk is a traditional Ayurvedic recipe which uses cow’s milk. If you wish to follow the traditional recipe, omit the coconut milk and coconut water and substitute two cups whole milk. If you cannot find fresh turmeric, substitute two teaspoons organic powdered turmeric.

Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

Healing Barley Soup

for winter wellness

Winter is a time for food cooked slowly and gently. Food which nurtures your body with its intrisic warmth and nutrition... Are you looking for a simple way to slow down and enjoy the things that really matter? Begin by joining the slow food movement! Slow food enthusiasts seek new ways to prepare food in the oven or on the stove top. They make food a priority and try to buy local, fresh organic ingredients whenever possible. During the summer, this means visiting farmersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; markets to deal with local growers, and it means selecting quality regional wines and learning which foods to pair them with. Slow the food you eat and make the enjoyment of food your priority. To enjoy slow food simply start at home with some local ingredients and an afternoon with nothing to do but cook an exquisite meal to enjoy with family or friends...

This recipe is from my wise grandmother, which includes healing foods like garlic, onion, herbs and lemon along with the barley. She knew this inexpensive traditional whole food has been used as a healing agent for centuries. Barley is a potent source of B vitamins, folic acid, selenium, and Vitamin E, has a low glycemic index, its fiber helps reduce cholesterol and it makes us feel pleasantly full without loading on the calories. The cooked barley has a pasta-like consistency which really satisfies. Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 medium onion (I use red, but white or yellow will do just fine), coarsely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 3/4 cup pearl barley 6 cups good-quality vegetable stock 2 sprigs fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried (thyme is a good anti-microbial) 1 sprig fresh rosemary or 1/2 teaspoon dried 1 medium carrot, chopped 1 cup sweet potato, peeled, and diced 3 cups seasonal greens, chopped (I like kale, but turnip greens, Swiss chard, broccoli rabe, mustard greens, or spinach will work beautifully) Sea salt and freshly ground pepper, to taste 2 tablespoons freshly-squeezed lemon juice per serving Cayenne pepper, to taste (optional, but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s very soothing for scratchy throats) Fresh herbs for garnish, optional Directions: Heat the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed soup pot and add onion. Saute, stirring occasionally, about 5 minutes, until softened. Add garlic and cook, stirring often, for 1 or 2 minutes, until garlic is fragrant and golden but not browned. Add pearl barley, stirring to coat with oil, and cook for 2 minutes. Add stock, thyme, and rosemary. Increase heat to bring soup to a boil, then cover, reduce heat, and cook 1 hour, until barley is barely tender. Add carrot and sweet potato, and continue cooking 20 to 30 minutes, until vegetables have softened. Add greens and cook until wilted and tender, about 5 to 10 more minutes. Use a potato masher to gently crush the potatoes. Add salt and pepper to your taste. Ladle soup into bowls, adding lemon juice and cayenne pepper (if desired) to each serving, and top with fresh herbs if you like. From: www.care2.com. Recipe by Cait Johnson, author of Witch in the Kitchen (Inner Traditions, 2001).

Cancer Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au

RECIPES & NUTRITION

Adzuki Bean Casserole This is a simple recipe with one of the easiest to digest and most nutritious beans. Ingredients: 1 onion, finely chopped 3 sticks of celery, sliced 1 zucchini, chopped 2 carrots, sliced 2 – 5 garlic cloves, minced 1- 2 inches of fresh ginger, chopped 1 1/2 cups adzuki beans 3 pieces of Wakame Seaweed, rinsed and broken into pieces 2 – 6 tbsp. Tamari Few drops of Stevia (optional) Directions: Cook adzuki beans for 1–2 hours (time is dependent on how long you soak the beans for prior to cooking. It is recommended to soak the beans overnight and then rinse them thoroughly before cooking) When beans are soft, add Wakame and cook for another few minutes. Then add onions, celery, zucchini, carrots, ginger and garlic. Simmer for 1/2 hour or till vegetables are tender. Add Tamari to taste and a few drops of stevia. Serve with a whole grain such as brown rice. From: realfoodforlife.com. Recipe by Diana Herrington who turned a debilitating health crisis into a passion for helping others with healthy, sugar free, gluten free, eating and cooking. After testing and researching every possible healthy therapy on her delicate system she has developed simple powerful principles which she shares in her recent book Eating Green, Clean and Lean.

Curried Veg and Chickpea Stew Ingredients 1 teaspoon olive oil 1 large onion, diced 2 all-purpose potatoes, diced 1 tablespoon salt 1 tablespoon curry powder 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional) 1-inch piece ginger, peeled and grated (about 1 tablespoon) 3 garlic cloves, minced 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper

2 cups vegetable broth 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed 1 capsicum, diced 1 red bell pepper, diced 1 medium head of cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets 1 can diced tomatoes with their juices 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 10-ounces baby spinach 1 cup coconut milk

Directions Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion with one teaspoon of salt until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the potatoes and another teaspoon of salt, and sauté until just translucent around the edges. Stir in the curry, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, and chilli and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Pour in 1/4 cup of broth and scrape the bottom of the pan to deglaze. Pour this onion-potato mixture into the bowl of your slow cooker. To the slow-cooker, add the rest of the broth, chickpeas, capsicum, cauliflower, tomatoes with their juices, the pepper, and the final teaspoon of salt. Stir to combine. The liquid should come half-way up the sides of the bowl; add more broth as necessary. Cover and cook for 4 hours on HIGH. Stir in the spinach and coconut milk. Cover with lid for 1 minute to allow the spinach to wilt. Taste and adjust salt and other seasonings as needed. Serve on its own or over quinoa or cous cous. From: www.thekitchn.com Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

Meet our three inspired fundraisers, Kym, Vanessa and George, who undertook the challenge of a lifetime to raise more than $30,000 for Cancer Support WA. We are very proud of their incredible achievement â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 5 days walking some spectacular but challenging sections of the Great Wall of China.

My experience with the Great Wall of China was amazing. For starters, everything in Beijing just blew me away: the people, huge buildings, and multilane highways. It was wonderful to experience Chinese food, culture, and history first hand. As far as air pollution goes, most of our stay was much more comfortable than I had anticipated. Visiting the Great Wall of China was without doubt one of the highlights of Beijing. Walking and climbing various sections of the Wall certainly had its challenges however we were fortunate with the weather being dry in that some sections would have been very challenging if not dangerous in wet conditions. All three of us had trained for the event, which was evident by the way we all tackled some of the more difficult sections. It was also great how supportive and encouraging the group was of each other. Our trekking companions representing the National Breast Cancer Foundation came from various States on the east coast. It was wonderful to share their fundraising, training and life journey experiences and I feel we (the Cancer Support WA team) bonded really well with these other groups. For me personally, I found the Great Wall of China trek to be a cathartic experience particularly on the final day when we hiked from Xizhazi village to the Jiankou section of the wall. It was one of the steepest sections with some wonderful views looking over valley below. At the highest point we all stopped for a rest and here I felt that each of us had achieved whatever it was that had motivated us to do the challenge. This point along the journey was also a great time to reflect and look forward to new experiences. I feel blessed having met so many wonderful and inspiring people on this journey and I hope their experience was as powerful for them as it was for me. George Lenyk

Cancer Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au

PERSONAL STORY

What an epic adventure! It all began in August of 2013 when I spotted an ad on Facebook. It caught my eye and I toyed with the idea of fundraising with my mum. She wasn’t interested, so I decided that it might be too hard with two little boys around. It wasn’t until a week or so later, when I received a phone call from Inspired Adventures while I was catching up with Ness. The conversation caught Ness’s attention and we decided there and then that we should take on the challenge together! We had both lost loved ones to Cancer so it was to be a spiritual journey together. We had so much fun raising the money and were astounded by the generosity of friends, family and our amazing community in Dunsborough. Arriving in Beijing was so exciting after anticipating it for so many months. We met our team, our group leader and our Chinese guide and jumped on the bus to get to our hotel. We met our local guide Jessie – a little pocket rocket full of knowledge and jokes. We also met our bus driver for the tour, Mr Song, who apparently was the best bus driver in China because he could navigate Beijing’s freeways with his eyes closed! Over the next couple of days we were immersed into the Chinese culture, learning heaps about the Chinese history. We visited Tiananmen Square, the Forbidden City and Temple of Heaven with several photo bombings along the way. Whenever we had a group photo several Chinese people would take photos of us! I guess we were pretty funny looking. We were so excited to finally get to the Great Wall. The first day was absolutely magical. We only walked for about three hours but it was intense. Steep inclines and declines caused lots of wobbly knees and breathlessness. We walked straight to our hotel that night, surrounded by mountains. It was such a beautiful sight. One day three local women joined our group as “guides”. Some had walked for two hours just to join us for another five hours. We realized their motive at the end of the day when they pulled out their trinkets for us to buy, because we bought so much from them they joined us the following day just to keep us company. Seeing the Great Wall snaking up and down mountains was a sight to behold. No photos do it justice. The best part of the day was finishing our trek and looking back to see how far we had come. Each day we trekked on the wall was over 40°C, so we definitely didn’t need the fleece and raincoats we had packed. One of the really hot days we each carried 5L water in our backpacks while the local guide trekked along beside us with just half a bottle of orange juice. He refused our water when we offered it to him! The people we met in our group and along the way will never be forgotten. We shared so many amazing and emotional memories. It was quite a spiritual journey for everyone on the trip, having all been affected by cancer in some way. Ness and I have had the most amazing journey. We have decided to do a challenge bi-annually, so we are hoping to take on the Inca Trail and after that Mt Kilimanjaro. Who knows, we might even conquer Everest! Actually, we better not put that in writing, we haven’t told our husbands…. Kym Carr and Vanessa Hodge

In loving memory of those who have shared part of their precious life journey with us... Demetrius Hassiotou Joan Pedersen Sandra Mary Johnson

when my voice is silenced in death, my song will speak in your living heart

~Rabindranath Tagore Winter 2014 WELLNESS NEWS

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The soul knows what do to heal itself. The challenge is to silence the mindâ&#x20AC;? ~ Dr Caroline Myss

We are here for you, even when our centre is closed. Western Australian individuals and families with cancer are invited to call the 24 Hour Cancer Support Phone Line for practical and emotional support from a qualified and specialised cancer counsellor at the time the need arises. Our new website is also a source of information and support.

www.cancersupportwa.org.au

Cancer Support WA www.cancersupportwa.org.au