Happy Thanksgiving Everyday!

Each Thanksgiving, we often start to ponder what it is in our lives we are thankful for... from the sun and stars, to the warmth of a good meal, or just a random friendly face. We are thankful for just being. We can choose to smile, to laugh, to breathe deeply for the chance of a new day.

Sometimes when we get down in the dumps, or feel the holiday stress, it is easy to lose sight of what we could be thankful for.  Consider taking the time during this Thanksgiving meal to let each person give thanks in his or her own way, whether out loud, in writing, or perhaps song, dance, or other expressive art. It is also a good idea to be thankful for yourself as well -- not in an egotistical way, but in a gentle way that lifts the soul.

When you are ready, consider bringing the spirit of Thanksgiving Day to everyday! A great way to do this is by starting a gratitude journal. If you tried out the practice above, then you already have your first entry. Write down or say aloud a few things you are thankful for everyday.  Try it out with your kids and see what happens after a couple of weeks. Often, such a simple exercise can keep spirits high and help lift cloudy days.

Using your head... Concussions and other head injuries

Concussions are a type of brain injury that are often caused by a bump or blow to the head. They may also result from jolts to other parts of the body, which then causes a whiplash injury in which the head moves rapidly back and forth. It's just plain physics. An injury to any part of the body can be felt by the whole, including the brain which can get jostled around. Even seemingly minor injuries can add up over time, as addressed in a health special in Time magazine entitled Kids and Concussions. 

Cranial osteopathy can address the strains in the body and the head. Many of these strains can persist for months or even years. The effects of these strains may be more obvious such as in ongoing headaches or neck pain.  Sometimes the impact of the strains may be subtle, causing a "fogginess" that goes unnoticed until it is cleared. See www.cranialacademy.org to look for a cranial osteopath in your area.

Lastly, don't forget our good friend arnica, which is useful after any bumps or bruises.

*Photo credit: National Institure of Health

Food Allergies On the Rise

Many of us have suspected that allergies have been on the rise for some time now. A new study finds that about 6 million kids in the US have a food allergy. That is 1 in 13 kids. The severity of those allergies has also been increasing. Food allergies are not simply another nuisance to be brushed aside. We need to take them seriously because they can be life-threatening. For some, keeping an Epi-pen handy may save a life. Symptoms of a food allergy may range from an itchy rash (hives), itchy throat, swelling, difficulty breathing, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, diarrhea. If you suspect you or someone in your family has a food allergy, please discuss this further with your physician.  If not, please be compassionate to others with food allergies and help them avoid a situation which may threaten their lives.

It is great that the medical journals are now clearly recognizing a true increase in food allergies. However, we also need to look more closely at the WHY as well. What has changed in our world that is different from decades ago? One, the toxic chemicals we are inundated with has also risen astronomically with little regulation. Many of these chemicals can affect our immune system in adverse ways. Second, the food that we eat is different. There is an abundance of processed foods, sugary foods, and artificial additives. Even produce has been genetically modified. Third, our interaction with the natural environment has changed. We live in highly sanitized areas with its obvious benefits. We do find that allergies are more common in city kids than farm kids. Are we lacking in exposure to beneficial bacteria?

Although we do not have all the answers yet, we need to continue to ask the question well-known to our kids: "Why?"

Austin Robin O'Brien is one mother who refused to stop asking why. She talks about the truth she uncovered in this succinct, empowering video. Please watch this video.

*Photo credit: National Institute of Health

Cell Phone Radiation

With the convenience and entertainment of our modern gadgets -- cell phones, computers, TVs, microwaves, and other electronics -- we sometimes receive more than we bargain for.  It is true that radiation can be a natural phenomena, such as radiation from the sun or the earth.  However, with our cell phone obsession, we are increasing our chronic exposure to low doses of radiation.  Children and young adults are more susceptible to damage from cell phone radiation due to their small skulls and developing brains.  The World Health Organization now recognizes cell phone radiation to be just as carcinogenic as lead, engine exhaust, and chloroform.  To reduce cell phone radiation exposure, keep the phone at least an inch away from the body, place the phone on speaker, use an earpiece, and decrease time spent on the phone in general. 

Junk Food in Hospitals

I am amazed that our hospitals, which are supposed to be places of healing, serve junk food.  One of the hospitals I trained in had a McDonald's, which I thought was a fluke. Then I happened to deliver in another hospital in a different area of the country which also had a McDonald's. Why do our hospitals not place more value and support on prevention?   Here is an interesting article by a UK cardiologist entitled I mend hearts. Then I see my patients served junk food by our hospitals. 

I would also highly recommend the documentary Super Size Me, which examines the influence of the fast-food industry.  The film is available for viewing and download for free.


Photo credit http://lcvending.net/vend.php?id=vending_machine_customization