Cold and Flu Prevention, Naturally

Question: I seem to get every cold and flu that comes around. I don't want to get a flu shot, what are some other holistic options to stay healthy?

Suggestions:

Massage Therapy

It is said that a 60 minute massage session is equivalent to a 20 minute brisk walk. With consistency, circulation, immune function and muscle tone are significantly improved. This can have a great and lasting effect on your body through this 5th season- known as the cold and flu season. Another important aspect is to make it a goal to drink more water than you normally would; at least half of your body weight in ounces. This will help considerably in flushing out bugs and germs that may sneak into your system. Additionally, bodywork helps induce more sound sleeping patterns, better focus and increased body awareness, all aiding in keeping you healthy and vital!
From a reflexology perspective, there are pressure points on the hands and feet that directly relate to immune organs. Addressing these areas can also be a wonderfully effective way to support immunity when your body may be compromised.

For more information, please visit http://www.guinevereamadeolmp.wordpress.com/

Guinevere Amadeo, LMP.
Licensed Massage Practitioner, Reflexologist
Seattle Holistic Health Examiner


Aromatherapy

The most important thing to staying healthy is wanting to be healthy! So, take time for yourself and do the things you need to do to make yourself happy and balanced. Then, focus on building your immune system. Utilize essential oils that support your immune system and clean the air you breathe. The oils that are great for these purposes are: Frankincense, Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Cypress and Lemongrass. To get the right balance, start small and you can always dilute with a carrier oil such as Jojoba or Almond. I would recommend an aromatic bath every other day throughout cold season. Throughout the day, apply the oil to your chest and your hands followed by deep nasal inhalations, to absorb the oils into your lungs and chest where many colds originate. If you're concerned with the "aroma" of the oils, simply keep the oil to yourself by applying to the bottoms of the feet only.

For more information, visit http://solaceessentials.blogspot.com/.
Carol Walter, Certified Aromatherapist
Owner, Solace Essentials


Medical Intuitive

On the energetic level getting sick a lot involves your immunes system which is all about protection and boundaries. To balance this energy it involves not giving away an excess of your energy and standing up for yourself. Be very aware or what you can give away, just because someone asks you to do something doesn’t mean you have to do it. Holding this energy will strengthen your immune system. If you do get sick, check yourself in the last few days, “Did you sell yourself out in anyway?” As a Medical Intuitive I can help identify specifically where and how one does this to themselves.
If one is having trouble with getting sick frequently their immune system is very compromised. We live in an extremely toxic environment which calls for an extreme solution; The Ionic Foot Bath. The Ionic Foot Bath is a dextoxing machine that pulls out mold, chemicals, allergens, metal, and anything inorganic. Our livers and kidneys are filters of the body if they become too flooded with toxins they will not be able to protect the body, especially in a time when it is the cold and flu season. Getting a Ionic Footbath helps support the immune systems so you can take on more and feel better.

For more information, visit
http://www.stepstoenlightenment.com/
Jacob Caldwell, LMP.
Steps to Enlightenment


Holistic Health Counseling

Staying healthy is easy with herbal Tinctures! This winter I have managed to avoid all colds and flu bugs by taking Herbs in Tincture form. Tinctures are potent extracts of herbs made easy to use in 1-3 ounce dropper bottles. Its important to take them at the first sign of any symptoms. If you want to boost your immune system and kick out those nasty viruses take Olive Leaf extract. It is anti-viral and anti-microbial and works wonders. For avoiding bacterial infection like strep throat I take Usnea which is one of the most potent anti-biotic herbs. Goldenseal is good for nasty colds or sore throats, though it also tastes nasty. I have avoided taking anti-biotics for 15 years by taking these and other herbs. Its important to remember when taking herbs that you need to take a-lot of them in order for them to work so follow the directions on the label. It is also imporant to educate yourself on the length of time it is safe to take each herb. The internet can provide you with great information on any herb. Herbs in tincture form can be purchased at your local health food store. To your Health!

Jenifer Alexandra Short, Healer and Holistic Health Counselor
Wings of Isis Healing Arts
email-alestria33@hotmail.com

Craniosacral

Got stress? Stress is virtually unavoidable in our modern lives and yet it has a profound negative affect on our health. Research has proven that stress plays a significant role in suppressing our immune systems, making us susceptible to all kinds of maladies, including the common cold and flu. But we can't just toss out everything in our lives that cause us stress. So, what do we do?

Finding tools that help us relax and cope with stress are essential. Craniosacral therapy is one of these tools. It is extremely effective at inducing a sense of peace and relaxation because it works directly to increase the health of the central nervous system and release any tension within it. Regular treatments can help restore a level of calm in our lives and allow us to deal with stress more effectively. Many of my clients report that they sleep better, have more energy, and feel less burdened by life from our work together. That sounds like a recipe for health!

Shawna Lendzion Harbin, LMP, CCSP
Licensed Massage Practitioner & Certified Craniosacral Practitioner
NoctiLuca Essentail Wellness
For more information, please visit http://www.noctilucaessentialwellness.com

Although OMM contributors are professional healthcare providers, the information and advice published on OneMindMedical.blogspot.com is generalized and not intended to replace a thorough evaluation of your unique physical concerns. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. You should consult a physician or applicable practitioner in all matters relating to your health, and particularly in respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention. Any action on your part in response to the information provided in this web site is at the reader's discretion.

How and when should one use alternative health services?

Guinevere Amadeo, LMP.
Licensed Massage Practitioner, Reflexologist

Seattle Holistic Health Examiner

The answer to this inquiry completely depends on your goals and availability to maintain a self-care regiment. Working in the chiropractic office, I often see clients for a 60 minute bodywork session one to two times per week, for a duration of six weeks to begin with. This program is extremely beneficial to complement chiropractic treatment, address specific trigger points and bring the body back into a state of balance after chronic and acute injury. For other modalities of massage, my recommendations vary with the individuals needs. For maternal massage, I suggest a minimum of a 60-90 minute session every 3-4 weeks through the duration of the pregnancy and three months following. With the drastic physical changes that are taking place in the body, it is essential to release the over-worked and fatigued muscles and joints. And with periodic wellness massage, I encourage my clients to listen to their bodies for an indication of when it's time to schedule our next appointment. Generally, once a month is a good consistency to keep your body, mind and spirit in a healthy balance.

For more information, please visit http://www.guinevereamadeolmp.wordpress.com/

Jennifer Alexandra Short, Healer & Holistic Health Coach
Wings of Isis Healing Arts

This question I will answer with another question; How committed are you to creating a life you want and how much support do you want on your path right now? My training as a Health Counselor enables me to offer support in the areas of nutrition, exercise, emotional support as well as creating healthy new mental patterns that support who you truly are in the world. As a Healer who works with sound and ancient mantras I can help you to release blocked energy, purify the emotions, uplift the heart, and enliven the physical body, creating room for new experience! For someone just starting on a healing journey they may need weekly support for awhile until they feel strong in the direction they are going. Once a month may be perfect for the person who uses holistic modalities to support and inspire them further on their path. Wherever you are in your life I am here to to help. I encourage you to be daring, listen to your heart and be open to new experience and support in a world of unfolding new mysteries, joys and never ending change.

Carol Walter, Certified Aromatherapist

Owner, Solace Essentials

Seeing an Aromatherapist is particularly helpful when you are feeling sick, are in transition, have experienced trauma, or need to commit to new goals – some may need one visit per month, and for others, just a few times a year. When you're feeling sick or unhealthy, essential oils can help you regain a state of good health so that your immune system is functioning at its highest level. Aromatherapy is effective when you are in a state of transition such as moving, changing jobs or leaving a relationship because essentials oils can help you embrace the change and go with the flow. Aromatherapy is effective for post-trauma healing especially in conjunction with post-accident physical therapy or chiropractic work as essentials oils can help the body heal emotionally allowing for greater physical healing.

Jacob Caldwell, LMP.
Medical Intuitive

Steps to Enlightenment

A Medical Intuitive Session is best at least once a month for ongoing treatment.Twice a month is good for those that really want to get to the issue..
In regards to massage, it all depends on the nature of your injury or the state of health you would like to maintain.

Once a month…is for those who like to prevent injuries and maintain current health.

Twice a month…is for those who want to catch up to chronic pain and take care of old or new occurring injuries.

Four times a month…is for those who are in the middle of injury treatment and have constant pain.

Eight times a month…is for those that are in a debilitating injury and are in severe pain.

***This of course is merely a suggestion and appropriate consultation with your medical professional is recommended.

For more information, visit http://www.stepstoenlightenment.com/

Shawna Lendzion Harbin, LMP, CCSP
Licensed Massage Practitioner and Certified Craniosacral Practitioner
NoctiLuca Essential Wellness

This depends heavily on what you are seeking treatment for in the first place. Many people these days receive massage and craniosacral therapy to help alleviate daily aches, tension, and stress, while increasing relaxation and general wellness. For these clients I recommend 2-3 sessions for the first month and then to 1-2 sessions per month after that. It's generally beneficial to ramp up in the beginning as your body adjusts to the new therapy. After this initial exposure, many people like to settle into a groove of monthly appointments. That is what fits their pocket books and their calendars while still allowing them to feel an improvement in their quality of life from the work we're doing together.

However, if you're seeking treatment for a recent injury or trauma, beginning with a routine of 1-2 sessions a week will help minimize recovery time and maximize healing potential. In this case, it can also be beneficial to have a diagnosing physician supervise your treatment plan and help you make these important decisions.

For more information, please visit http://www.noctilucaessentialwellness.com

Although OMM contributors are professional healthcare providers, the information and advice published on OneMindMedical.blogspot.com is generalized and not intended to replace a thorough evaluation of your unique physical concerns. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. You should consult a physician or  applicable practitioner in all matters relating to your health, and particularly in respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention. Any action on your part in response to the information provided in this web site is at the reader's discretion

 

I am a very busy person and am always in a state of fatigue. How can I get help?

Guinevere Amadeo, LMP
Licensed Massage Practitioner, Reflexologist

Seattle Holistic Health Examiner

Life is all about balance. First, examine the things in your life that may need to be put on the back burner. Many of us have a tendency to over-commit ourselves and in doing so, wind up not completing any of the tasks to the best of our abilities. Figure out some ways to use your time more efficiently. Set aside a specific scheduled time for certain tasks and take appropriate breaks to breathe, stretch and be present in your body. Drink plenty of water and make it a priority to get adequate sleep. Massage is a wonderful way to center and ground our minds and use the precious time we do have more effectively. By increasing your circulation and de-stressing your muscles, you are boosting you immune system and helping your body to stay healthy during the busyness of life. Bodywork can also be very stimulating, and helpful in focusing your mind and energy.

For further information, please visit guinevereamadeolmp.wordpress.com


Jacob Caldwell, LMP
Medical Intuitive

Steps to Enlightenment


Being an Aquarius I can relate to this one, rest is the key, running around a lot can cause a lot of stress on your adrenals. Taking time to rest and receive a massage can rejuvenate yourself to take on more. Even God rested on the 7th day. Something I have noticed with people who do the-run-around-thing a lot is that their Strength Chakra or Solar Plexus is running to high. A common trait with these people is that they think it is all up to them and they have to do it because no one else can. With every issue there is a Chakra that is too high and a Chakra that is too low. Most of the time the Heart Chakra is too low. The Heart is about expressing your vulnerability and asking for what you need.
So if no one can hear what you want, then it will be up to you to do everything yourself. So to balance this scenario, Ask for help!.
In the end you will have more people around you to help you with what you need and as a result you will run around less and have more energy at the end of the day.


Jennifer Alexandra Short, Healer & Holistic Health Coach
Wings of Isis Healing Arts


People who are stressed out and tired can benefit from dietary changes like replacing coffee with green tea,cutting out sugars and processed carbohydrates and taking a super food supplement like Spirulina. Taking even five minutes through out the day to meditate, do a few chants and affirmations can keep us more balanced, focused and relaxed. For example I use my driving time to chant Om Mani Padme Hum, a Buddhist chant which dispels negativity and purifies the emotional body. In only a few minutes I feel calm and balanced.


Carol Walter, Certified Aromatherapist
Owner, Solace Essentials

There are many layers to your current emotional state. Though I would want to know more background about what is causing your fatigue, I can generally suggest a few good tips regarding business, the holidays and our current lack of sun.
First, take a step back from your task list, and meditate each morning on what your priorities are for the day. You probably can’t get everything done right now especially with the holidays fast approaching. However, when you decide what’s important and how you want to both share and receive joy this season, you will feel like your heart is in the right place and that the things you do accomplish are the things that are meant to be accomplished. Essential Oils that will help you focus on your purpose and priorities are oils that are also good for the Heart Chakra (help you express your compassion and focus on your self-worth) - Geranium, Ylang Ylang, Lavender and Grapefruit and for the Root Chakra (help you feel more grounded and not as spread thin) - Myrrh, Red Thyme, Ginger and Vetivert.
Second, in terms of energy, the fall season is the season that Pacific Northwesterners start to feel sad about the departure of the sun. By the winter, you may become more acclimated, but in the meantime, I’m really enjoying my Vitamin D supplements! In terms of essential oils, the following are known for their anti-depressant, energizing qualities: Lemongrass, Lime, Grapefruit, Mandarin, Sweet Orange and Lemon.
I would suggest combining as many of these oils as you feel you need in one bottle and use this on your Heart Chakra during your morning meditation - this will set your intention for the day. By focusing on your priorities, being more grounded, and getting some sun-replacement support, hopefully you will feel more energized throughout the day and content with your accomplishments!
You can get your essential oils from any Health Food Store or from Solace Essentials.


Jasson Zurilgen
C.H.E.K. Practitioner, Corrective Exercise Specialist
Heroics

As a Corrective Exercise Specialist, my approach to an over-worked and fatigued client begins with an in depth assessment of the physiological stress loads, including musculoskeletal imbalances and improper breathing patterns. Identifying lifestyle factors that contribute to fatigue is the first step to diminishing these negative effects on the body. Sleeping patterns, nutrition, and general self-care are all major considerations in setting and achieving short-term goals. Developing a healthy and balanced exercise program to promote body awareness and vitality may include stretching, meditative exercises to increase chi, and simple breathing techniques.

For more information visit: http://www.heroics.wordpress.com/, http://www.heroicsusa.com/

David A. Tucker, MSAOM, L.Ac, LMP
Acupuncturist, Herbalist, Massage Therapist
The Zen of Healing

First and foremost… water, water, water! It’s a bit of a running joke with my patients. But it is truly amazing what a difference drinking the right amount of water each day (around half your body weight in ounces) can make a difference in all aspects of your health, including energy. It is one of the five-elements that makes up all things, how could getting adequate amounts of this fundamental substance not have significant effects?!

The second question I ask is, “are you getting enough exercise?” Exercise, while taking energy to do, actually can provide consistent long-term energy when done on a regular basis. Busy or not, making the time is a must!

I know the Seattle readers are going to scoff at this next point – put down the coffee (soda too)! Energetically speaking, coffee (decaf or not) is initially heating but its long-term effect is cooling, slowing us down over time. In addition, it depletes our storehouse of inherited Qi (or Essence) which is very difficult to replenish again. For more information on our Essence, refer to my recent blog post (http://thezenofhealing.com/2009/01/28/the-essence-of-water/). I’m not saying everyone should eliminate coffee, overall constitution plays a factor as well. But it should be something to consider if energy levels are low.

Also looking at your dairy and gluten intake is worth looking at, both of which create an environment of what Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) refers to as “dampness” in our meridians. Dampness can cause low energy levels, pain, mental sluggishness, etc.

Acupuncture is a wonderful way to raise energy levels and is the most common “side-effect” I hear from people’s treatment regardless of what their actual reason for coming in is. Various deficient and excess conditions from either a TCM or Five Element acupuncture perspective see fatigue as a common symptom and can be reconciled through acupuncture.

For more information, visit: http://www.thzenofhealing.com

Although OMM contributors are professional healthcare providers, the information and advice published on OneMindMedical.blogspot.com is generalized and not intended to replace a thorough evaluation of your unique physical concerns. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. You should consult a physician or  applicable practitioner in all matters relating to your health, and particularly in respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention. Any action on your part in response to the information provided in this web site is at the reader's discretion