SIMPLE WAYS TO TRIGGER "FEEL GOOD" CHEMICALS!

Exercise is my perfect way to reduce stress. Whether I am briskly walking 30-60 minutes outdoors, doing aerobics, gentle stretching or practicing warm water exercise in a heated pool, exercise is the best way to improve my MOOD, ATTITUDE & FRAME OF MIND!

Several years ago, my girlfriend and I signed up together to take a yoga class at the community college. For me, I preferred brisk walking, low impact aerobics and aqua therapy compared to yoga, but I have heard of others who find yoga to be a very excellent way of reducing stress. It is not so much the exact form of exercise, but rather finding what works for you best!

Now that the Pittsburgh weather is turning much colder, more damp and frequent rain, it has become challenging to enjoy the outdoors. I would love to join a local gym to use the equipment and make the most of the heated pool during the winter months.

I decided to do a little research on the topic of "feel good chemicals" since most individuals enjoy feeling good. According to CNN, "researchers have found that eating chocolate, the number one food craved by American women, causes the brain to release endorphins, chemicals that make us feel good. So we eat chocolate to release and experience pleasure and as a result, we crave chocolate. We want chocolate in times of stress, anxiety, pain and so on. Chocolate is a natural analgesic, or pain killer." (As for me, I crave organic, dark chocolate!)

In a very interesting article posted on AssociateContent.com, titled,"ENDORPHINS: MOOD LIFTERS & DEPRESSION BUSTERS" written by Marilisa Kinney Satchteleben, she stated that the body releases endorphins during strenuous exercise, excitement, fear, pain and orgasm. Her article is summed up by suggesting that the best method to trigger endorphins and in order to feel good, "All you need to do is be constantly running, suffering, terrified or having sex." (I think that I will pass on suffering and being terrified!)

Although, I do NOT recommend this method to trigger your "feel good" endorphins, some classic ways are by the use of morphine, heroine and cocaine. Instead of choosing this extremely addictive method, here are a few ENJOYABLE and SAFER options to release endorphins to have you feeling good in no time at all!

1) The direct result of the power of positive thinking can literally release "feel good" chemicals. Our thoughts truly do have an huge impact on how we feel emotionally and physically. If you want to feel good, begin by changing your thought patterns to become more positive. Practice positive affirmations and post them at locations in your workplace, home and car so you will constantly be reminded of focusing on the positive!

2) Have you ever heard of "runners high?" Well, the good news is that exercise, whether it is running, swimming, aerobics, lifting weights or playing tennis, will release the "feel good" endorphins. The main point is to get your body moving consistently because research has proved that this will stimulate a very positive result.

3) According to Dr. Fuhrman from yourtotalhealth.com, he states, "I personally think that having an orgasm is a great way to get a rush of endorphins. You may have to run for an hour to get a runner's high, depending on your body. Sex is less effort, even if it's a quickie." (Hey, it doesn't hurt to inform your spouse that this is beneficial for BOTH of you!)

4) Are you a risk-taking & adventurous individual? Whether you're watching a horror movie with your hand over your eyes or feeling a rush of wind in your hair as you plummet down a steep incline on a roller coaster, fear releases endorphins. Most individuals are not looking to experience intense fear, just fun! So if you are a daredevil, I dare you to go parachute jumping, bunging jumping, hang gliding, visit an amusement park or go deep sea diving to get your immediate RUSH to feel good!

5) The terrific news for all chocolate lovers is that eating small amounts of chocolate truly do trigger the "feel good" endorphins. Next time you have a chocolate craving, relax, indulge in your favorite chocolate bar and enjoy the delicious taste of chocolate guilt-free! (My favorite is organic, dark chocolate!)

6) Laughter is the BEST medicine and it produces the "feel good" endorphins. This week, how about watching a hysterical comedy, share some silly jokes with a friend or go to a comedy show to enjoy a few good laughs?

7) Researchers at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center have found that ultraviolet (UV) light can trigger endorphin production. Doctors recommend using sunscreen to protect your skin. However, I discovered that just knowing it's sunny outside can boost your endorphin production and your mood. Therefore, while the beautiful leaves of Autumn are gradually turning color and beginning to fall, take a brisk walk outdoors, enjoy the sunshine and the breathtaking season!

Copyright © 2009 by Dana Arcuri. All Rights Reserved.

MAINTAINING WEIGHT LOSS.....

One of the challenging experiences with weight loss is keeping the weight off. My organic lifestyle diet began in May 2009 and to my surprise, I have successfully dropped from size 10 to size 6! My total weight loss has been 25 lbs in which I have attempted to maintain for five solid months.

If I have to list the most difficult challenge of maintaining my weight it most definitely is eating the SAME food. In all honesty, after spending five months cooking new healthy recipes, shopping at Whole Foods Store, consistently taking all of my various natural supplements, actively walking and swimming as well as trying to reduce snacking late at night, my struggle has been finding creative ways to change the foods that I eat.

It took me a few months to totally understand which foods and beverages are best for reducing calories and weight. I was particularly focusing on a diet that consisted of eliminating many carbohydrates, foods that thrive on yeast, junk food, dairy, sweets and any meat or eggs containing hormones or harmful ingredients.

I discovered that I actually love organic food and I love hormone-free chicken, beef, turkey and eggs! However, due to the fact that I truly do not enjoy cooking every single day, I reached a point in which I became STUCK.

All of a sudden, at the end of September 2009, after I had lost 25 lbs and I wanted to maintain this weight loss, I no longer had a desire to eat many of the same recipes or foods that I had been eating. Oddly enough, I felt "burnt out" from eating a variety of the same foods or same recipes.

As the saying goes, "VARIETY IS THE SPICE OF LIFE!" I firmly believe that what I need to do is to actively seek new foods that are healthy and pure. In addition, I need to change my recipes and to consider something totally different to add to my meals.

This is going to take time, patience, resourcefulness, energy and creativity, but I do believe that if I am persistent, I will discover an excellent new idea to help me overcome boredom and tired taste buds!

My motto for the BEAUTIFUL month of October is to "KEEP ON KEEPING ON!" An energetic fall harvest offers up a bounty of healthy seasonal Eco-loving colorful produce. Hey, if nothing else, I may look into the healthy benefits of eating pumpkin, squash and root vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, celery root and parsnips to provide exciting sweet flavors!

Seasonal Autumn foods offer a mixture and an abundance of Vitamin C and A, antioxidants, beta-carotene, potassium and fiber. Ironically, the Autumn foods that mother nature boasts this time of the year are immune boasters and perfect for preventing winter colds and flues.

I challenge you to jump on board with me to commit to eating healthy seasonal organic fruits and vegetables several times daily and see the difference it will make in your life. May this gorgeous Autumn season promote inner harmony, successful weight maintenance and terrific health!

MAGNETIC THERAPY FOR TREATING ADHD SAFELY

For any individuals interested in alternative methods of treating ADD/ADHD, I recommend looking into magnetic therapy. In the book titled, "THE ADD ANSWER" by Dr. Frank Lawlis, there is helpful information in the 12th chapter explaining the magnetic concept and magnetic therapy for treating children and adults diagnosed with ADD/ADHD.

According to Dr. Frank Lawlis, there is a successful pediatrician located in Harrisburg, PA who has done research on magnetic therapy for ADHD treatment in 28 children. Dr. Bernard Margolis, practicing for over 36 years, is a dedicated physician who has the best interest of his young patients at heart.

Dr. Margolis, one of the pioneers in the field of electromagnetic medicine for ADD/ADHD, has studied the effectiveness of magnets in mattress pads, pillows, comforters and medallions, targeting specific parts of the body. Dr. Margolis studied the effects of his magnetic devices on 28 children with attention challenges diagnosed by their parents and teachers. The parents of the children assessed them on physical behaviors, emotional and attention/memory functions before, during and after using magnetic therapy.

According to "THE ADD ANSWER", of the 28 children, 19 showed SIGNIFICANT IMPROVEMENT in all scores, while using one or more magnetic products. However, Dr. Margolis determined that the children who did not respond well were those who had used only one of the magnetic products, which has indicated that the more magnetic power, the better the results.

An 11 year old patient in the study who had used the magnetic mattress, pillow and disk magnets, responded well. His parents noted that he appeared calmer, rested, more focused and had better behavior compared to his typical behavior without the magnetic therapy. In addition, the boys parents stated that usually when they took their son out to a restaurant, he would have difficulty staying seated, remaining calm and focused. The magnetic therapy appeared to have positive benefits with the 11 year old boy. Yet, after the magnets were withdrawn, the reports turned negative again.

Although there has not been much scientific research into the effectiveness of magnetic therapy for treating ADD/ADHD, it has been cited in MOSBY'S COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE that there has been more than 70 research studies using magnetic therapy. In addition, other research studies have had promising results using magnetic products to reduce severe pain, heal injuries, promote restful sleep and to control stuttering.

The companies that retail the magnetic products are not permitted by the FDA to promise any form of healing or cure for any medical conditions. Presently, magnets can not be patented or synthesized. However, the good news is that magnetic therapy is available to the public without a prescription or the extra expense of a doctor visit.

For parents of children with ADD/ADHD as well as adults diagnosed with ADD/ADHD, using magnetic therapy may be considered a safer method without the negative side effects of using traditional stimulant medication for treatment. For individuals and families interested in holistic alternatives for ADD/ADHD treatment, magnetic therapy just may be the missing link.

Copyright © 2009 by Dana Arcuri. All Rights Reserved.

IS THERE A MINDBODY CONNECTION?

Recently, I started reading about the mindbody connection. The theory behind the mindbody connection is that individuals, from childhood to adulthood, may experience unpleasant events, such as childhood abuse, the death of a loved one, the loss of a beloved pet, a personal injury or illness, divorce, loss of income or obstacles at work.

Due to the extreme nature of the stressful experience, individuals consciously are not able to cope with the disturbing emotions that are producing very unpleasant feelings. Perhaps, it is socially unacceptable to emotionally react to this traumatic experience? Therefore, the unconscious represses the dramatic emotions and your brain sends a signal to an organ or physical part of your body to distract your consciousness from the source of your emotional pain.

In the book, THE MINDBODY PRESCRIPTION by John Sarno, M.D., states, "NO MATTER HOW WE REACT TO LIFE'S PRESSURES CONSCIOUSLY, ANOTHER WORLD OF REACTIONS EXIST IN THE UNCONSCIOUS. BECAUSE WE ARE NOT AWARE OF THOSE UNCONSCIOUS FEELINGS AND CANNOT, THEREFORE, CONTROL THEM, AND BECAUSE THEY ARE SO THREATENING AND FRIGHTENING, THE BRAIN WILL AUTOMATICALLY INDUCE PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS TO PREVENT THE DANGEROUS FEELINGS FROM BECOMING OVERT, AND THUS BECOMING CONSCIOUS."

Another expert in the mindbody connection is Dr. Bradley Nelson, a chiropractic physician, craniopath, holistic healer, teacher and author of THE EMOTION CODE. In the book, Dr. Nelson writes, " If you are like most people, your life has had its ups and downs. You have probably experienced moments of joy, as well as other times of grief, anger, frustration, and fear.

You may have experienced moments of happiness, as well as depression, low self-esteem, anxiety, or any of a wide variety of emotions, both positive and negative. What you may not realize is that some of the negative emotions you’ve experienced, even though you may have felt them long ago, may still be creating problems for you in subtle, yet very damaging ways. The Emotion Code is about finding those old emotions and releasing them forever."

Today, I had the opportunity to join in a teleconference in which Dr. Nelson discussed The Emotion Code, what it is and how emotions become trapped. In todays teleconference, Dr. Nelson stated that our body is made of energy and the universe is made of energy. The Emotion Code is the biggest breakthrough in energy and how to treat trapped emotions.

Some of the unconscious emotions that become trapped or repressed are listed below:

RAGE
FEAR
HORROR
LONELINESS
GRIEF
HUMILIATION
LOSS
HATRED
RESENTMENT
ANGER
WORTHLESSNESS
TRAUMATIC PHYSICAL PAIN

In the book written by Dr. John Sarno, THE MINDBODY PRESCRIPTION, he says that he refers to the mindbody illnesses and conditions as TMS, which stands for Tension Myositis Syndrome. Dr. Sarno writes that there is a major impact of the emotions on bodily functions. Here is a few of the medical conditions that are linked to TMS:

GASTROINTESTINAL DISORDERS
CARDIOVASCULAR DISORDERS
GENITOURINARY DISORDERS
SKIN DISORDERS
CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME
FIBROMYALGIA
TEMPOROMANDIBULAR JOINT SYNDROME (TMJ)
CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME
MOST LOW BACK & LEG PAIN
MOST NECK, SHOULDER & ARM PAIN
MOST TENDONITIS SYNDROMES

Possibly, the mindbody connection is new to you or you have never heard of it before? I admit, it is a new way of looking at emotional and physical pain. Without a doubt, I have attempted to delve into my own past to see if there are any unconscious or conscious experiences that may have triggered trapped emotions. In all respect, I do not think the average individual has had a stress-free life that has been simply "smooth sailing!"

If nothing else, I hope that this information on the mindbody connection was educational and thought provoking for you. It may not be popular with modern psychology, but within the past 20 years, many have written about the mindbody connection, including authors such as Deepak Chopra, Norman Cousins, Dennis Jaffe, Lawrence LeShan, Steven Locke, Joyce McDougall, Morton Reiser, Bernie Siegel and Andrew Weil.

In todays society, it has become mind boggling how medical diseases, disorders, chronic pain, depression, anxiety and emotional tension has plagued men, women and children to epidemic proportions. While traditional medicine has taken giant leaps in scientifically improving modern medicine, I wonder why there are so many treatments, surgical procedures and medicines failing to reduce diseases, disorders and cancers? Traditional medicine may always be on the leading edge in technology, but I sincerely believe there is credibility of the mind having a very real connection with the body.

Copyright © 2009 by Dana Arcuri. All Rights Reserved.

POSITIVE WORD FOR THE WEEKEND!

There is no medicine like hope, no incentive so great, and no tonic so powerful as expectation of something better tomorrow. - Orison Marden

WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR WELLNESS?

Have you ever wondered why some people are physically and emotionally healthy, while others have been chronically struggling with one or more health concerns? How can some people work 12 hour shifts and still come home to tackle household chores, while other people are barely able to get out of bed in the morning? Most importantly, the BIG question for the day: WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR HEALTH AND WELLNESS?

If we practice good health by taking care of ourselves with proper nutrition, drinking pure water, exercising regularly and getting enough sleep then we can feel confident that we are actively contributing to our wellness. Yet, what about polluted air that we breathe, allergens we are exposed to, emotional stress, unbalanced hormones, our genes that we inherited and the culture that we live in?

There is no doubt in my mind that our culture does have a HUGE impact on our health and wellness. All you have to do is turn on the TV and immediately you will see beer commercials, fast food commercials and sitcoms with people snacking on sweets in the middle of the night. Better yet, take a good look around you to observe how most Americans eat and this will definitely explain why obesity has hit an all time high in the USA!

Next, let us consider the fact that most of our agricultural crops have been nutrient depleted for decades. The meat we eat is from cattle grown on these depleted crops. So is the milk we drink. In addition to depleted crops, our cattle have been injected with hormones and antibiotics to make them grow faster. America’s dairy cows are given a genetically-engineered hormone called rBGH (recombinant bovine growth hormone) to increase milk production. (Hmmm...This may explain the growing problem of antibiotic resistant bacteria and the hormonal challenges that females are facing today?)

According to the American Lung Association, more than 35 million Americans are now living with chronic lung disease. Every year, more than 400,000 Americans die of lung disease, due to tobacco-related diseases, air pollution, asthma and allergies. It is believed that cessation of smoking is the most important factor in preventing the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

In the Merriam-Webster's Pocket Dictionary, stress is defined as a state if physical or mental tension. In our society, stress has become an acceptable part of life. Occasionally, we may experience stress from a high-pressured job, lack of proper sleep, getting stuck in busy traffic, demanding children or financial setbacks.

However, chronic stress will negatively effect our physical and emotional health. It can increase blood pressure, suppress the immune system, increase the risk of a heart attack and stroke, contribute to infertility and speed up the aging process. A few helpful methods to reduce chronic stress includes practicing deep breathing techniques, yoga, meditation or prayer, journaling, soaking in a hot tub, practicing visual imagery or receiving a professional massage.

Hereditary diseases and disorders may contribute to our health. A few hereditary conditions are heart disease, breast cancer, depression and obesity. A hereditary condition is one that is genetically predetermined. It is dependent on the genetic material or chromosomes that a person inherits from one or both biological parents. A person may also be a “carrier” of an illness, disease or medical condition without actually having the condition.

The bottom line is that our health is determined by our age, our genes, our stress, our lifestyle, our habits, our environment, our hormones, by what we consume and by the culture we live in. If you want to get nitty gritty about it, we can even include that our health is determined by our financial status. Poverty absolutely does negatively effect health. The lack of income and lack of medical health insurance will have a negative impact on a families ability to prevent and treat medical conditions.

The end result for determining who is responsible for our wellness is that we have multiple factors to consider, but the primary responsibility of our health is determined by each one of us. Therefore, eating right, staying physically active, managing stress, getting proper sleep, increasing water intake, getting plenty of sunshine, keeping unavoidable ailments under control, experiencing peace with God and not smoking are examples of good habits that can help each one of us maintain good healthy. Be your own advocate and take care of yourself!
Copyright © 2009 by Dana Arcuri. All Rights Reserved.

ALTERNATIVE FOR DAIRY

If you are looking for a healthy alternative for milk and butter here is a suggestion to try:

ORGANIC UNSWEETENED ALMOND VANILLA NON-DAIRY BEVERAGE (purchased at local Whole Foods Store)

EARTH BALANCE NATURAL BUTTERY SPREAD - Vegan, Canola Oil-free, Lactose-free, Gluten-free, Non GMO. (purchased at local Todays Market)