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Welcome to all our new subscribers, and I extend my appreciation to everyone who forwards this newsletter to friends. One friend telling another is how we grow, and I deeply appreciate your support. If you know anyone who might enjoy reading this newletter, please forward it to them.

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IN THIS ISSUE:

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Dear Compassionate Friends,

November 3, 2006, in Denver, Colorado and the sun is shining and the temperature is a beautiful 63 degrees. I love this about Colorado; you just never know what the weather will bring. And to think the little Trick or Treaters were our there a few night ago freezing their Teddy Bear buns off. You just gotta love it!

It was nice having the summer off from school as I was building my private massage therapy practice, but I am back in school learning reflexology and aromatherapy this semester. It just goes to show that one is never too old to learn and it really is fun to learn something new that can help others. My acupuncturist, Tania Heikkinen, taught me cupping and I have had an awesome time sharing it with my clients this week; I have received so many positive responses. Tania also submitted an article about Traditional Chinese Medicine - you won't want to miss this one.

As the holiday season starts to come upon us don't forget about your self-care plans. I feel it is essential to decide what is important for you and don't let the advertisements dictate what you do and how you spend your time.

I hope that you enjoy this issue of the newsletter and will share it with your friends and family.

The Two Compassionate Hands Newsletter, like the website, is dedicated to healing the planet one person at a time. This and future issues will contain articles on physical, environmental, spiritual health - and more. We look forward to bringing you relevant information that will aid you on your path to optimal health and peace. Please let us know what would be most helpful to you and your family.

In your health and the health of our planet,

Jann Griffiths, MS, CMT

November/December 2006 Two Compassionate Hands Massage Newsletter

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There is no trust more sacred than the one the world holds with children. There is no duty more important than ensuring that their rights are respected, that their welfare is protected, that their lives are free from fear and want and that they grow up in peace. Kofi Annan

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Understanding Reflexology

 

 By Allison Preston

 

Reflexology is the application of pressure, stretches and movement to the feet and hands to affect corresponding parts of the body. By applying certain techniques it can be used to reduce stress in the body. It is not just a massage. Reflexology concentrates on strategic zones within the feet and hands which correspond to the nervous system. Massaging concentrates on your muscles and soft tissue.

When you apply pressure to these strategic zones of the hands and feet, the pressure enters the central nervous system. It is then processed in various parts of the brain and relayed to the internal organs to allocate the necessary adjustments in fuel and oxygen. A response is sent to the motor system. Your body’s tone and overall tension level will adjust and if the pressure is applied properly the tone will decrease the stress and abuse of the body’s systems.

Reflexology has been used as a form of natural healing since the time of the pharaohs. It can help alleviate headaches, lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety attacks and help reduce acne and dandruff. Regular practice may also eliminate ulcers, help digestion, alleviate pain and boost your energy level. The effects of reflexology on other more serious medical conditions are still being researched.

Reflexology is based on the principle that there are numerous energy pathways that travel to every organ of the body and have endings in many locations just below the skin surface primarily on your hands and feet. The techniques involve massaging these endings to improve energy flow in order to treat illness and alleviate pain in organs elsewhere in the pathway.

If you are looking to cure a specific problem, you can research if reflexology has been tested in its treatment. There are books and training manuals available which outline the techniques and locations of these nerve endings and their pathways. It is easy to do reflexology and it can be done while doing other activities, so it can become part of your daily routine. It is being introduced in many hospitals and HMOs and is even being considered for possible insurance reimbursement. Be aware however, reflexology is to be used with medicine and should not replace it.

© Copyright. Fitness-web.com, All Rights Reserved.

About the Author:

You can read additional health and fitness related articles on Allison Preston’s fitness blog. She also discusses health and fitness related products on her website http://www.fitness-web.com/

Read more articles by: Allison Preston

 

 

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"Our moral and ethical responsibility is to protect other species in
the spirit of husbandry rather than destroy them in and attitude of conquest."
-  Charles Southwick

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An Introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine

By Tania Heikkinen

Although Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is an ancient form of healing for a variety of disorders, it has become an increasingly popular and respected treatment modality throughout the modern world precisely because of its powerful effectiveness. TCM includes acupuncture, Chinese herbology, massage therapy, diet and nutritional education, and exercise such as Tai Chi or Qi Gong. In my practice, I provide for people pain and stress relief, a boost in energy and vitality, or promote a more relaxed and settled sense of well-being from which to deal with the stresses of everyday life. In a nutshell, what I do is help improve overall quality of life by individualizing treatments specific to your needs because no person is exactly alike even though they may have the same ailment. A common example of two people complaining of the same disorder is headaches. Most likely, the cause of the two headaches stem from different imbalances within the two individuals. One type of headache may stem from poor diet resulting in tight, heavy pain that encircles the head and comes on in the afternoon; whereas the other type may stem from chronic neck and scapular pain resulting in stabbing pain that spreads from the back of the neck across to the right temple. This is the point where I evaluate the cause, nature and defining characteristics of your disorder in order to not only relieve the symptoms but to help prevent the disorder from coming back. TCM is therefore a great symptom reliever and effective preventive medicine.

TCM benefits a wide range of conditions, including problems that have not been helped by other therapies. The more common problems I treat and have had great results with are pain such as neck, shoulder, low back and knee pain, stress and fatigue, digestive issues such as IBS, emotional conditions such as depression/anxiety, insomnia, menstrual problems, and menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes. A unique quality of TCM is its ability to integrate itself with virtually any other modality of medicine. For example, acupuncture and massage therapy complement each other very effectively for relieving pain from musculoskeletal disorders and reducing everyday stress. Acupuncture works effectively with physical therapy and chiropractic medicine to help heal various injuries. An individual may also use acupuncture and Chinese herbs to support any psychotherapeutic modalities they may be using to alleviate an emotional condition.

What I have found works best for people is when they make the commitment and time to come in for an acupuncture session instead of either ignoring their disorder or using a quick fix. When we commit to maintaining balanced health and well-being, we can pursue those things that mean the most to us.

Since this article is an introduction to Traditional Chinese Medicine, I have not gone into detail about any specific conditions; however, subsequent articles will explain in more detail how TCM can benefit a certain condition. If you would like more information and/or have any questions, please feel free to view my website listed below and e-mail or call me. Good health to all and please see my flu season home remedy below.

Pain is inevitable. Suffering is optional. ~ Dalai Lama

Tania Heikkinen, a Licensed Acupuncturist and Chinese Herbalist, has been in private practice in Denver for almost two years. She also works to educate and introduce others in the incredible benefits of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Tania’s Flu Season Ginger & Garlic Tea

As soon as you feel the typical flu symptoms (chills and fever, body aches, etc.) make this potent Ginger and Garlic Tea:

Chop into large pieces 1 clove of raw Garlic and approx. 1 tbsp. of raw chopped Ginger (skin removed).

• Steep ingredients in a mug of boiling water for 2-3 minutes.
• Get under the covers or get into a hot bath, drink the tea and sweat it out!

Make a second mug if necessary. Keep drinking plenty of water after the fever breaks to rehydrated.

 

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Exercise Your Willpower Support Group Mailing List

If you need more motivation and some group support, feel free to subscribe to the Exercise Your Willpower mailing list. There is a great group of people who help motivate each other. To get more information, visit the website at: http://www.exerciseyourwillpower.com

Online Fitness and Health Tools

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“Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense.” ~ Buddha

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Combat Stress By Creating Your Own Oasis

By Monique Gilbert

Help your body and mind relax and increase your sense of well-being by creating a personalized comfort zone. Whether at home, work or when traveling, you can create your own oasis with these eight easy steps.

Stress and anxiety can prematurely age our mind and body. If not dealt with effectively, chronic stress and worrying can place undue strain upon our cardiovascular and immune systems. It can also make us prone to mood disorders and negatively affect our cognitive functions. Having a safe and comfortable place where we can relax and unwind can help improve our well-being and produce feelings of peace and tranquility.

Ideally, creating an atmosphere that induces calmness throughout your home is best. However, if space is limited, you still can create your own oasis, even if it is in only a corner of a room or in a cubical at work. Here are eight easy ways to make your personal space a true comfort zone.

1. Tranquil Sounds. Your favorite music, sound machines and water falls can help you relax and unwind. Sounds have the ability to alter our perceptions and instantly change your mood.

2. Living Plants. Live plants create a peaceful atmosphere. They improve the ambiance and air quality of indoor environments, and induce a positive energy around them.

3. Soft Lighting. Soft and adjustable lighting can create a soothing atmosphere. Look for light bulbs that are bright, but not harsh. Being able to adjust the brightness of your lighting will give you more control of the mood of your space.

4. Pleasant Smells. A fresh and pleasant odor can transport you to a peaceful place and time. Open a window to get an exchange of air, use air purifiers or deodorizers to create the scent you find most pleasing.

5. Furniture Arrangement. Place your furniture and other items to best fit your daily needs and actions. Personalize your space with things that bestow happy memories.

6. Comfortable Textures. Use pillows, throws and soft materials to create a comfort zone. Our sense of touch has a powerful impact upon our feelings.

7. Symbols of Nature. Bring the outdoors inside with shells, rocks, feathers, wood, leaves, etc.

8. Answering Machine. When you need to unwind and revitalize, turn your answering machine on and the volume down. You can always return calls when you are recharged and ready to talk.

Take control of your surroundings, whether they are just a corner of a room or a desk at work. You can even use these steps when traveling to help you unwind. By creating your own personal oasis, you will be better able to relax and rejuvenate. A few changes may be all that you need to make yourself calm, peaceful, energized and inspired.

Monique N. Gilbert, B.Sc. is a Personal Health, Nutrition & Lifestyle Coach, Certified Personal Trainer/Fitness Counselor and Author. Monique's coaching helps people get healthy, manage stress, lose weight and keep it off. Go to www.MoniqueNGilbert.com to learn more about Monique's personal coaching program.

Copyright © Monique N. Gilbert - All Rights Reserved

About the Author:

Monique N. Gilbert, B.Sc. has offered guidance in natural health, nutrition, fitness, weight-loss and stress management since 1989. Monique motivates and teaches how to improve your well-being, vitality and longevity with balanced nutrition, physical activity and healthy stress-free living. For more information about Monique's personal coaching program, visit http://www.MoniqueNGilbert.com

Read more articles by: Monique N. Gilbert, B.Sc.

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Exercise For a Healthy Heart

By Louise Roach

Do you exercise every day? If you want to live a long, healthy life, maybe you should. A recent study by Timothy Wessel, a physician at the University of Florida, indicates one of the strongest risk factors for developing heart disease is inactivity – even more so than being overweight. During the four-year study of 906 women, Dr. Wessel documented those who were moderately active were less likely to develop heart disease than sedentary women, no matter how much they weighed. The study concluded: “These results suggest that fitness may be more important than overweight or obesity for cardiovascular risk in women.” In January, the updated U.S. Dietary Guidelines strongly urged that everyone should take part in “at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity” on most days, above whatever activities they do at home or work. To loose weight or to avoid gaining weight as we age, 60 minutes of daily moderate to vigorous exercise is recommended. And those who have already lost weight and are attempting to keep weight off need 60 to 90 minutes of daily exercise. A study of 9,611 adults by the University of Michigan Health System, found that people in their 50s and 60s who participated in daily exercise were 35 percent less likely to die within the next eight years than their inactive couch potato counter parts. Convinced that it’s time to add exercise to your day? The Basics -- Make Exercise a Life Priority: - If you’re not use to exercising, check with your doctor before beginning any strenuous fitness routine. - Start slow. If 30 minutes of exercise is too much, start with 15 minutes and add a few minutes each day. - If you don’t have time for 60 minutes of exercise, break it up into two 30-minute sessions throughout the day. - Schedule a specific time to exercise everyday – then keep to your schedule! - Take part in more intense activities that can improve your heart health, such as: running, dancing, swimming, cycling, and climbing stairs. - Find exercise that you enjoy. You will be more likely to continue and improve your daily performance if you look forward to a favorite activity. - Wear proper clothing and footwear. This has two functions. Clothing and shoes that are suited to your activity will enhance performance and offer the right kind of support for your body and feet. They will also place you in a better frame of mind for exercise. When you wear your favorite running outfit and slide into your special running shoes, your mind says “it’s time to get out the door and put my feet in motion!” - Add everyday activities to increase your overall fitness level, such as gardening, housework, walking to the store, take the stairs instead of the elevator, and raking leaves. - Always drink lots of water. - If you feel discomfort or pain after an activity, use ice therapy immediately to reduce swelling and numb pain. Always have a cold pack in your freezer, ready and waiting. Most aches and pains attributed to exercise respond well to icing and will melt away within 24 hours after applying ice for several 20-minute sessions. Using cold therapy reduces down time, getting you back on schedule fast. (If the pain does not lessen within 48 hours after using ice therapy, is intense or becomes worse, see your doctor.) Exercise every day…take care of your heart…live long! Disclaimer: This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical treatment or consultation. Always consult with your physician in the event of a serious injury. About the Author: About the Author: Louise Roach: health and fitness editor, marketing specialist, product development consultant. Helps others find pain relief through the use of SnowPack Cold Therapy products. Learn more about the benefits of cold therapy at http://www.snowpackusa.com/ Sign up for *free* health/fitness e-newsletter at: http://home.netcom.com/~newsflash/ Read more articles by: Louise Roach

 

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"Great is the matter of birth and death,
Time passes quickly.
Wake-up! Wake-up!
Don't waste a minute."

 

-on the wall outside of the Zendo at the Zen Center of Denver

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Everybody today seems to be in such a terrible rush, anxious for greater developments and greater riches and so on, so that children have very little time for their parents. Parents have very little time for each other, and in the home begins the disruption of peace of the world. Mother Teresa

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Whether you are having a special get together, planning a wedding, announcing the arrival of your new baby, planning a party, moving to a new home, ordering personal or business stationery, business cards or address labels, Invitations Galore has what you need! You can always count on high-quality products and great customer service at Invitations Galore. You are able to browse, personalize and view an online proof before you place your order. If you need to see and feel the invitation or announcement before deciding, take advantage of theFREE invitation samples--see website for details. Click banner above or click here to visit Invitations Galore. Don't forget to Enter the monthly drawing. Take advantage of the 10% discount at our Holiday website. In addition to holiday greeting cards, you will also find assorted boxed sets of greeting cards, suitable for business or personal use, and much more. This discount is for a limited time—take 10% off anything at this site..

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Articles and Web Sites Worth a Look

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If you would like to submit an article, or place an advertisement in this newsletter, or if you have any questions or comments, send them to the Editor.

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Disclaimer

The information in this newsletter is not intended in any way to be a substitute for medical advice. Always see your doctor before you begin any exercise routine or make drastic changes in your diet.

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