Finding a New Primary Care Doctor

A Big Thanks To Leslie at Wellparents.com for this great advice Thanks to Leslie at Read more

The Rollercoaster of Life

Grandma: "I always wanted to go again. You know, it was just so interesting that a ride could make me so frightened, so scared, so sick, so excited, and so thrilled all together! Some didn't like Read more

Sheltering at Home/Covid 19

Never in the last two decades of my career as a physician would I have imagined that we would be using the same mask to see patients all day and then sterilizing/recycling them at the end of the day. Read more

Turmeric Health Benefits

Have you ever wondered what the paste is applied to the bride and groom's faces and arms in Indian weddings?  It's actually the spice turmeric.  Turmeric is the ingredient in curry that gives it a vibrant yellow color.  Actually, Read more

COVID 19 Precautions

With the scare of COVID here in the USA now, I wanted to post a little info about boosting immunity to prevent contracting the virus. Here are some important facts about Covid-19 It is spread by contact with Read more

Natural Tips for Avoiding Colds

This cold and flu season is still upon us and unfortunately, many patients are still being plagued by these nasty viral symptoms.  Here are a few tips to try if you feel like you are coming down with something. Of Read more

Sherry's Story

Sherry has a great story.  She has been diabetic for years and she has made some massive changes!   "I have been on a lifestyle change. It has been a year following a ketogenic food plan.  When I started this journey Read more

Pharmacy to Farmacy

Many of you may know Erin-- the fabulous Pharm D that worked in our office a few years back.  Erin is a phenomenal gal and we embarked on the journey  into natural medicine around the same time.  As we both Read more

Spirit

Lessons from the Mental Hospital

All I can say is that I absolutely love this—it’s worth taking 17 minutes to watch.  It seems to reiterate that all I ever needed to know I learned in kindergarten! Nothing beats transparency and honesty.

 

Posted on by Angela in Body, Mind, Spirit 1 Comment

Ways to Self Sabotage

10 Ways We Sabotage our own Health and Weight Loss

1.  Skipping breakfast

2. Eating too little

3.  Lack of sleep

4.  Dehydration

5.  Lack of protein

6.  Pharmaceuticals

7.  Toxins in processed foods

8.  Eating inconsistantly

9.  Pestacides on foods

10.  Not believing in ourselves

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10 Ways we can break the cycle

1.  Eat something when we wake up

2.  Add 1 fresh veggie a day (free calories essentially)

3.  Go to bed 10 minutes earlier than usual

4.  Drink 1 glass of water (or extra glass) daily

5.  Add protein between meals (i.e./ a handful of nuts or seeds)

6.  Eliminate any drug that is unessential

7.  Eat 1 less processed food daily

8.  Eat 3 times a day for 3 days straight

9.  Wash all veggies and eat fresh or frozen and not canned

10.  Affirmations–start each day by saying in the mirror “I love you ______!”

BABY STEPS!!!!  They still count and will get you walking strong eventually!

Posted on by Angela in Body, Call to action, Diet, Spirit Leave a comment

Chasing the Moon

Around 5am September 1st, 2013–the Aurigids will be entering the meteor stream in the last hour before dawn.  So it’s a perfect way to start Sunday by checking out the shower around 5am.  It is extra special because the Moon enters a new phase on September 5th and will be located near the Sun.  You will be able to find a crescent moon in the early morning and approximately 14-20 meteor showers before dawn.  With a bonus attraction, the Moon passed Jupiter today the 31st and will still be visible in the am along with Mars.  13aug31_4302

I’m not usually an astrology freak, but researching the correlation of  the mind, body, and spirit has helped me be grateful for all the intricate connections between the Earth and how our bodies function.  It really does make me feel more complete when I pay attention to how I blend with the Universe.  Best wishes for a wonderful holiday weekend!!!  Enjoy!

Posted on by Angela in Mind, Spirit 2 Comments

Wall Yoga-This week’s epic fail!

So the last few months, I have felt completely stressed out with my kids on summer break, my menopausal hormone imbalance, and trying to sell our house.  I don’t know how many of you can relate but the showings seem to come at the most unfortunate times.  Last week, they called at noon for a showing at 4 when I was knee-deep at work.  The beds were unmade, the dishes were in the sink, and the children that I enlisted to power clean— were at the pool relaxing!  ” Really Mom, It’s summer break!”

I decided I needed to practice some mindfulness in order to settle my erratic brain.  Because I don’t know how to meditate, I thought of adding Yoga to my usual routine of running and Zumba.   The first few weeks went well.  I seemed to develop a groove after week #2;  realizing that I’m not nearly as limber as I thought.   Week #3 brought the reality that I was elderly and not that nimble 20 yo ballet dancer anymore. Week #4  –well, I can still cross my legs, but my splits look more like Gumby trying to morph into Stretch Armstrong than Natalie Portman in “The Black Swan”.

But here is the kicker!   I walked into class to find all my cronies facing flat against the wall in some awkward squat position.  I slowly and quietly turned to leave deciding I had entered the wrong class only to be called out by the Yoga instructor (damn, why did I try to befriend her?) saying—” Don’t worry-come in because we are trying something different tonight. NO JUDGEMENT in our practice.  NAMASTE”

Much to my dismay, she was teaching Wall Yoga.  I suffered through the difficult positions with my muscles quivering and sweat dripping onto my newly purchased chic pink Target brand Yoga mat.  I drove home thinking that I must be the only person going to Yoga that doesn’t toke up before class.   I then came home and googled (officially a verb now) Wall Yoga.  OOPS–I’m the jerk! I proceeded to find extraordinary information on Wall Yoga’s amazing health benefits.  Likewise,  I was apparently incredibly fortunate to have found an experienced teacher here in the Midwest.

My ignorance has prompted me to enlist some exercise and Yoga experts to write some guest blogs for you all.  After all–we are in this together and you certainly can’t trust my views on exercise.  Jeez  —I thank the Universe because usually I take my 19 yo daughter with me to class.  I’m sure she would have posted a You Tube viral sensation of me trying to do these moves.

 namaste

 I’d like to introduce KATHY—our Yoga expert!!!

Aloha!  I am a guest writer for Angela M.D.’s lovely blog.  Because of her new-found enjoyment in the practice, Angela has asked me to write a post about the benefits of yoga.

But, before I get started, let me share a little bit about me.  In 2012 I graduated from Carthage College with a degree in Exercise Physiology.  Although I love the human body and all the amazing physical things it can do, I decided to go right back to school to finish a licensing program at Dominican University to become a Registered Dietitian.  I am currently in my second (and final) year and will be looking for internships this spring.  Upon this road of health, I discovered yoga.  My passion for feeding the body and moving my muscles naturally moved towards yoga due to its holistic practices.  After 3 years of practicing (during college), I decided that I wanted to share this wonderful lifestyle with the world!  Ok, well maybe my friends and colleagues first…So, I became a registered yoga teacher (RYT 200) through Essencia Yoga in Wheaton IL.  I love teaching and sharing my experiences with students of all capabilities and lifestyles, so I hope you enjoy this article and maybe visit me at the studio one day!

Ok, enough about me…let’s talk yoga!

Benefit #1:  Relaxing

In this modern world we live in, every day is a day to do more, learn more, and simply accomplish more.  We are taught from birth to be the best at whatever we put our minds to.  While this is great and all, it is really good for us to slow down every now and then to assess our progress and reevaluate the route we are taking.  Yoga helps your body to do that.  By focusing on your breath, connecting it with the body, and feeling the sensations in each posture, you become more aware of not only your surroundings, but who you are as a person.  After practicing for awhile, you might even begin to notice that the little things that used to bother you so much seem like just a cool breeze that you can handle much better.

Benefit #2:  Strength

If you have taken just one yoga class, you will more than likely know what I am talking about here.  In yoga, you use your body as the machine to move into postures and facilitate healing throughout.  You build muscles you never knew you even had.  As a matter of fact, I practiced for 3 years on my own before actually taking a yoga class and I was actually sore after the class!  Having been an athlete my whole life, I was shocked that yoga could make me sore.  It is important to note here that not all yoga is for building muscles, but the majority of the types do have some sort of asana (posture) attached, so a physical benefit will happen along the way.

Benefit #3:  Strong Heart

Along with strength, yoga can increase your heart rate during class through flowing motions.  Building a strong heart allows for the heart muscles to grow stronger.  A stronger heart means a lower overall heart rate and is therefore a more healthy heart.  Like any form of exercise, it is important to get that heart rate up just a bit so it can become stronger over time.

Benefit #4:  Spirituality

By focusing on the breath, body, and mind, you may naturally become a more spiritual person.  Being ”spiritual” can mean so many different things, depending on who you are and your current level of spirituality.

Benefit #5:  Healthy Eating

Becoming more in tune with your body will not only strengthen and stretch your muscles on a deeper level, it will also create a mind-body connection that might possibly lead to choosing healthier foods.  When we show care to our bodies, our mind wants to keep up that kindness; which is when we start reaching for more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

As you can see, yoga is so much more than just a physical practice, but the practice is usually where it all begins.  Everyone is a beginner in yoga, your mat is your sacred space and no one will judge you (not even you!).  

Thank you Angela, for the opportunity to write about a major passion of mine and I hope that all who read this may consider trying just one yoga class.  Whether you want to grow stronger, more flexible, or find a place of peace to yourself for an hour, give it a try; I’m sure you’ll love it.

Namaste. (“salutations to you”)

Kathy

www.luanaolaenjoylife.com

 

Thanks to Kathy for her contribution and check out her site above or on the link to the right!!!

Posted on by Angela in Body, Exercise, Guest Blog, Mind, Spirit 2 Comments

Wholistic!

My sentiments exactly!  Thanks for the share Dee–check out her blog at http://www.gettingthebestoffood.com

You may remember that I started this blog because I am an overweight diet authority. Oxymoronic, I know. But food and health have always fascinated me so I’ve been watching shows and reading books and learning about wellness for as long as I can remember. The sad thing is, that until I am able to successfully make my outside form match my inside genius, no one will (or should) believe that I know what I’m talking about.
Part of what I set out to prove to myself and everyone around me is that I am just an average person with a job and family and food cravings and an extra 40 pounds. People who have never been challenged with weight issues, really can’t coach from the same perspective as people who have overcome the challenge. They still have powerful advice to offer on the benefits of exercise and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Wholistic medicine is particularly fascinating. I read this today and wanted to share with you what Plato had to say about overall health: “the greatest mistake that physicians make is that they attempt to cure the body without attempting to cure the mind; yet the mind and body are one and should not be treated separately.”

 

Posted on by Angela in Body, Guest Blog, Mind, Spirit Leave a comment

Toxic Emotions

Which of the following will cause you to get sick first?

1.  Eating Sugar

2.  Carbs

3.  Lack of Exercise

4.  Toxic Emotions

 

Yep –you got it—-Hatred, Guilt, Negativity, and Lack of Self Love—All of the above will cause you harm way before anything else.

I watched this Mindset Monday video by Drew Canole from FitLife.tv and it really hit home.  I love his positive energy and honesty.  Check out his site and the iPhone App called fit life tv which is free and has tons of  great juicing recipes!

Here is a little background on Drew—

“Drew was born and raised in the small, rural community of Lake City in northern Michigan. After attending Central Michigan University, he launched a successful career in finance before recognizing that his greatest talent lied in motivating others. He currently resides in San Diego, where his work as author, fitness specialist and has made him one of the most reputable Personal Coaches in southern California.

Drew is committed to the conviction that people are at their best when challenged. He pushes others to bust through personal barriers and reach new heights in physical, mental and spiritual well-being.”

JuiceUpYourLife

 

And with a quote from Drew—We’re in this together

Posted on by Angela in Body, Diet, Mind, Nutrition, Organic, Weight Loss, Whole Food Leave a comment

Mindset Matters!

I love this new post from Dee!  Visit her site at http://www.gettingthebestoffoodmind_over_matter
When my daughter was little, she was terrified of going to the doctor for shots. After the Kindergarten series, she started asking me all throughout the year when she had to go back for more. She would always cry at my answer, even if the next round of shots was years away. She agonized over them, cried and begged me to get her out of it. One doctor appointment stands out very clearly in my mind. As we waited in the outer lobby, she started to get tense. Then, inside the exam room, her temperature rose, body shook and her sobs turned from a whimper to hysteria. The nurse came in to wipe her arm with alcohol and my daughter, sitting in my lap sobbed “tell me when they are going to do it.” She was so worked up and delirious she didn’t realize the shot had already happened. When I told her it was done, she opened one eye in disbelief. Sure enough, the agony and torment she created for herself was more excruciating than the pain of the shot.How many times do we, as adults, create the same experience for ourselves. I know that in the past I have worried myself sick over something that might happen, and many of those fears never came to pass.

Research has shown that stress and worry can be major contributing factors to heart disease, fatigue and depression.

Lighten up? It’s easier said than done. But there are practices that you can implement into your weekly schedule that will help alleviate worry and stress.

1) Start a prayer or gratitude journal. If you begin writing down the people and things you pray for and then go back periodically and re-read them, you’ll see that you’ve made it through to the other side of the trouble and it’s now behind you. By keeping a gratitude journal nightly, you will keep your mind focused on the small things for which you are thankful every day.

2) Exercise. According to the Mayo Clinic, exercise pumps your endorphins. It also improves your mood, provides mental clarity and lowers symptoms associated with mild depression and anxiety. Exercise also can improve your sleep, which is often disrupted by stress, depression and anxiety.

3) Volunteer or Pay it Forward. Volunteering is an amazing way to take your focus off yourself and to give to another person or group of people who appreciate your time and talents. Speak to someone who has gone on a mission trip to “serve” and you’ll find that they always feel like they are on the receiving end of the gift. Even something as simple as a Random Act of Kindness can give you such a great feeling of warmth and compassion.

 

Posted on by Angela in Diet, Nutrition, Whole Food Leave a comment

Get Real

Everyone has a story.  A life changing moment when they undergo hardship and change their perspective on life by developing a new sense of identity.  Seth Godin calls it the “flipping point”.  Alcoholics Anonymous calls it “rock bottom”.  I simply call it my story–or your story—- Something that happens to make you change the way you think about things.  Certainly it can happen several times in life —and probably should as we all continue to evolve as people and adapt to our surroundings.

My good friend Katie decided to share her story and discovery of her life mission.  Katie writes,” 10 years ago when I was on bed rest for my daughter, Molly, my entire perspective on health & life changed drastically. I already shared with you my Juicing love 🙂:) but wanted to share with you the rest of the change. Having been a public school teacher & cheerleading coach for 10 years I knew girls needed women who had “been in their shoes” to come alongside them and be transparent about life. Thus, began a ministry I started for girls, Get REAL in Christ (Get REAL inC). www.getrealinc.org We have programs for girls from grades 1 and up.

In Sept. we partnered with the Indiana Fever for an event which opened an exciting door for us. Former Victoria’s Secret Model, Kylie Bisutti, has joined our team and wants to be a voice to girls on respecting themselves & help us empower other women to come alongside girls and start Get REAL groups in their communities.”

I encourage you to check out the Get Real site!  Katie is an inspirational person that empowers herself against disease and is constantly reaching out to help others!

Posted on by Angela in Benevolence, Body, Call to action, Diet, disease, Exercise, Mind, Nutrition, Spirit, Whole Food Leave a comment

Alexander and the terrible,horrible,no good,really bad day!

So I had a bad day!  The chips are open in the break room and the drug rep just brought frozen yogurt—-I want to eat all of it!  Then, I want to go to Taco Bell on the way home and get nachos; topping it off with a candy bar.  My salad with garbanzo beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, and olives just doesn’t cut it!  I’m sitting here thinking this when it dawned on me—I’m not hungry!  I don’t want to eat, I want to cry!  I am making a catastrophe out of all the things in my life that I have no control over.   I’ve taken one small piece of bad news and turned into the apocalypse within minutes.  The downward spiral of thoughts in my head has overwhelmed the senses of my body.  There are things in my life and world that are out of my control:  they make me anxious and paranoid.  I can’t accept these things I cannot change.  But, do I have a choice?  Not really.  I can accept them or abuse my body pretending that I can change things.  Ultimately, the only thing I change is myself for the worse if I make that choice.  How self-defeating is that?  So I’m going to turn on some sad music –CRY– and then take a deep breath and make the most of what I’m grateful for today.  Today has been awful, but tomorrow will be better!   If Alexander moves to Australia—I’m going with him.

Posted on by Angela in Body, Call to action, Family, Spirit 2 Comments

Pride and Success

I’m so proud today!  I’ve been having a rough week having to doll out some difficult diagnoses to patients.  That is ultimately the worst part of my job!  I hate telling someone they have cancer or disease even if it is something we can treat and cure.  I feel like it rips a piece of my soul out every time–not to mention that I look like HE double hockey sticks the rest of my day because I cannot let someone cry alone.  So with swollen eyes and mascara stained cheeks, I forged ahead to see Miss Susie, one of my dear patients with diabetes.  She started my wellness program reluctantly back in December and has vowed to stick with it.  Upon starting, her blood sugars were out of control and her Hgb A1C was 10! (this is the average blood sugar over 3 months in a diabetic and should be 6).  Today, she clocked in 18 lbs lighter with an A1C of 7 and I am starting to take her off of medication.  I have to mention that during the last 9 months –her husband was diagnosed with cancer and underwent surgery as well!  So despite her emotional hurdles–she was able to overcome her disease by taking charge of her diet and what she actually put in her mouth and it has made ALL the difference.  My day is a little brighter now thanks to Susie who took a leap of faith with me and vowed that she would do what we told her.  She is my strong wellness warrior with the strength it took to get rid of diabetes!@!   Eat your veggies people!  This whole food business really does work!  You can get better if you really want to!

Posted on by Angela in Body, Diet, Nutrition, Weight Loss, Whole Food Leave a comment