DVD review: A.M. & P.M. T'ai Chi with David-Dorian Ross

As you know, I'm always looking for ways to improve health and well being. While in MT school, I was fortunate enough to be able to take t'ai chi lessons from a wonderful instructor. But when I was back in Pittsburg, I no longer had that resource.

With the DVD: A.M. & P.M. T'ai Chi with David-Dorian Ross and CJ McPhee, I've been able to start back with this wonderful practice.

The DVD has two twenty minute sessions, one for beginning your day with increased energy; the other to help you wind down from your day and release stress and tension. The video is easy enough for beginners, and you'll soon find your flexibility improves so that the movements become smooth and flowing.

Filmed on the beach, with rolling waves in the background, it's soothing just watching that! Add David-Dorian and CJ's clear instructions for the gentle and easy movements and you'll soon find yourself enjoying increased energy and a feeling of peace throughout the day.

You can find the DVD at David-Dorian's site http://www.drtaichi.com/ or from amazon.com. Wherever you get it, I think you will be pleased with its gentle, easy to follow instructions.

Hammocks and that Vestibular System

Late last year I wrote about how I viewed Mayan hammocks as a pain management option, in addition to being a great relaxation tool. I mentioned how the gentle rocking/swaying of the hammock could stimulate the vestibular system. Today I'd like to give you the details on why that system is important to everyone, from babies to the elderly.

When asked about the vestibular system, most people will often relate it with balance and inner ear issues. But the VS has more influence on our bodies than you think.

The VS affects all the sensory processes of the body, which makes it important to make sure it is in the best condition. More importantly, the VS is intricately involved with another very important system: the vagus nerve.

The vagus nerve is actually two cranial nerves, extremely long, which earned them the nickname "Wandering Nerves". Extending from your brain stem to the viscera (your internal organs), with branches to the heart, lungs, stomach, and ears, they gather incoming information from the body. This information helps the brain make sure the body is working efficiently. The vagus nerves also dispenses instructions to the body on how to work at peak performance.

This is valuable to know, because appropriate stimulation of the vagus nerve will help you slow your heartbeat, lower blood pressure, and bring about a relaxation response.

Which is where the vestibular system and the vagus complex connection comes into play. When you rock in a chair or swing in a hammock, you gently stimulate the vestibular system and therefore the vagus complex, leading to mental and physical relaxation without much effort on your part.

The vagus complex is also responsible for your digestive system, so if you are having a bit of trouble with constipation, gas, etc. it might be beneficial to try rocking, gentle bouncing on an exercise ball, or swinging in a hammock (are you noticing a theme here?) if more water and your regular exercise aren't doing the job. (Of course, check with your primary health care provider to make sure there's no major problems first!)

Don't have time for rocking or swinging? Since the lips and mouth are richly supplied with connections to the vagus nerves, try pinching your lips, chewing gum, or (gently!) biting your lips. Any of these will also help you avoid eating when you are stressed. Remember to breathe, drink a glass of water, and rock in your seat for additional tension relief.

Consider investing in a hammock or comfortable rocking chair for their considerable health benefits. In my opinion, it's been the best money I've ever spent on myself, and I think you'll feel the same once you give them a try.

Wishing you the best of health,
Lorraine

Don't Wring Your Hands. . .Rub Them!

I've always been fascinated by reflexology, whether it be foot, hand, or ear reflexology.

When I have time, I like to Google the "interest of the moment", so today I looked for "Hand reflexology". I found this wonderful interactive chart, and wanted to share the link with you:

http://www.dorlingkindersley-uk.co.uk/static/cs/uk/11/features/reflexology/handchart.html

Simply move your cursor over the drawing of the hand to see what your fingertips influence, or over a word in the list to find out the spot on the hand related to it.

There is also a link there for a foot chart, but our hands are so much easier to reach. Plus, you can press/rub the reflex spots on the hands just about anywhere, anytime without your great aunt wondering why you're pinching your palm. : )

Remember, reflexology is not meant to replace the care of a primary health care provider. Err on the side of caution and get your situation checked out by your doctor, especially if you are experiencing more than a minor ache or pain.

Have a happy and relaxed holiday!

Improve your energy level!

I love Donna Eden's books, and will be doing a review of her latest, "Energy Medicine for Women" after the holidays. Until then, here's something to get you started:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gffKhttrRw4

I've used the 3 Thumps to fight bronchitis before. . . now I use them to prevent it!

Stay warm,
Lorraine

Relaxing Video

For those of you who like to see beautiful kaleidoscopes, this is a beautifully relaxing video. It would make a terrific Christmas gift!

http://hdcolors.com/?seconds=90

Ken Mayering (info@hdcolors.com) has been a jewel. When I first found his sample video on youtube, I liked it, but felt the images changed too fast to be relaxing. When I commented on it, he offered to slow it down. I loved the results, so ordered one this morning.

So visit his website, find a speed that you like, and contact Ken about your preferences. I can't wait to get mine, relax into the hammock, and bliss out!

Education to benefit you!

Whew! what a summer/fall it's been! This year, due to licensing changes, I had to do three times more CEUs than usual. This benefits both of us: I satisfy my craving for learning more, and you get even better service when you come for a treatment.

This year, I've learned headache and sinus care, shoulder care, and a wonderful new technique that is called SET (Simple Effective Techniques). I also just finished an ethics course, and one in body/mind theory, so I have learned enough to effect your body from head to toe!

Next month I'll have more time to post, so look for descriptions of these new treatments and how they can benefit you.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Hammocks: Between Heaven and Earth

This summer I kept busy getting ready for the Class Ltd. fundraiser. It was a great success! I gave away a "Bathtime Bag", a pretty floral tote filled with relaxing bath supplies. A lavendar candle, nylon scubbie, rice eye bag, tea, Milano cookies, and a knight in shining armor. (The knight was on the cover of a paperback book!)

For those of you who've ever got me started talking about the many benefits of "Mayan Hammock Therapy" for pain relief, you know that I think these soft, comfortable hammocks are a godsend to those of us who are in pain.

Last year, I thought I might have to consider giving up my massage therapy practice due to arm and shoulder pain. Then I did some research and bought my first Mayan style hammock. After about a month of spending a minimum of 15 minutes a day in it, my pain was gone. I now have hammock hook-ups in my house, my yard, and my garden shed. Now I can grab a "hammock relaxation break" whenever I want or need it, no matter what the weather or time of day.

Mayan hammocks differ from American hammocks in that they don't have spreader bars. This makes for a more versatile and stable hammock. It's virtually impossible for a Mayan hammock to tump you out, where as those American ones can behave as badly as a bucking bronco. (I know, I've used both. I'll never go back to the American style.)

The trick to the most effective pain relief is that you lie crosswise instead of lengthwise in the hammock. (Another drawback to the American style--they're not big enough to lie crosswise.) This allows the fabric netting to conform to every curve of your spine and body, taking the pressure off all of your joints. Research has shown that these hammocks can be effectively used to relieve muscle pain, improve vestibular (inner ear) function, and soothe autistic children. They make delightful relaxation and meditation spots, and you can squirm around in them until you find the perfect spot.

The point is: I want to help people get a hammock into their home. They're just too valuable a self care tool to ignore! So I'll be stocking them soon (by September first for sure!). I've tried to keep the prices reasonable, and I may have a "Open Hammock" day where you can come experience firsthand the comfort of these beautiful floating beds.

Prices:
Cotton Thin string in the following sizes:
Queen (supports up to 400 lbs, 7.31' wide, 14' long): $80
King (supports up to 480 lbs, 7.87' wide, 14' long): $90
Lg. hammock chair (supports up to 330 lbs.) $90

Colors will vary. Nylon models will be available if requested, but I don't find them nearly as comfortable or as effective as cotton for pain management.

A hammock, someone said, is like being cradled in the hand of God between heaven and earth. I heartily agree!