What can you expect during a Reiki Session?

There are no fixed parameters regarding length or intensity for Reiki sessions. It all depends on your practitioner and the condition that requires treatment. However, quiet places are recommended as this helps eliminate noisy distractions. Sessions usually vary from 20 minutes to about 90 minutes if you visit an expert. Some practitioners prefer playing soft music in the background while others prefer a healing silence.

The Reiki practitioner may also ask you questions about any specific health conditions or requirements that you are seeking relief from. The therapy is performed on clients who are either asked to lie down or sit in a comfortable position. The practitioner will channel universal life force using light touches and correct placement of hands. Reiki is a non-invasive and painless holistic intervention and clients report feeling light and energetic after a healing session.

You may also experience deep feelings of relaxation and stress-release. It’s best if you tell your practitioner of any aches, pain or wounds before the session. As the session wears on, there is a strong likelihood that you will feel more relaxed. You may want to be aware that Reiki is associated with a cumulative effect and you will feel experience the benefits over a series of sessions.

Depending on the severity of the health condition, you may require consecutive Reiki sessions in order to maximise results.

What are the Healing Health Benefits of Reiki?

Reiki heals us at the core level. Reiki helps promote inner balance and harmony and helps you release inner stress (stress is responsible for a host of ailments). In addition, Reiki is one of the most valuable healing tools in the quest for spiritual evolvement. You learn to get in touch with your inner self and accept the reality of who you are.

Reiki helps you control and release unsettling emotions and this further promotes memory, focus and concentration. As you open up and release pain, you also begin to enjoy more loving and compassionate relationships with loved ones. Most importantly, Reiki can help you recover faster after injuries and illness as it replenishes lost energy.

Summary

Reiki is a holistic health intervention that helps you heal yourself as well as others.

A vegetarian diet essentially eliminates meat products. It’s a diet that consists of vegetables, fruits, nuts and so on. Thanks to a body of modern research, the health benefits of vegetarian diets. People are attracted to vegetarian diets due to different reasons; you may want to cut down on red, fat-laden meat in your diet.

Research indicates that vegetarian diets lead to longevity and increased immunity from disease. Vegetarian diets are associated with numerous health and environmental benefits.

What are the different Types of Vegetarian Diets?

In Australia for example, there are five types of vegetarian diets, depending on the level of food derived from plant origin.

• Lacto vegetarian diet contains dairy food but no fish, meat or poultry products.
• A semi-vegetarian diet comprises fish, poultry, dairy and eggs but no red meat.
• A lacto ovo vegetarian diet eliminates meat and poultry but includes dairy products and eggs
• A ‘pescetarian’ diet includes seafood and fish and may exclude meat, poultry and eggs
• Vegans eat food that is strictly derived from plant sources (no fish, eggs, meat, honey and gelatin)

According to Roy Morgan Research, an Australian based marketing firm, the number of vegetarians in Australia is slowly and steadily increasing. The trend stems from a growing concern among Australians about health and wellbeing.

How are Vegetarian Diets Beneficial to Health?

Vegetarian diets offer a host of important health benefits:

• Lowered risk of heart disease and certain cancers. According to Dr Joel Fuhrman, author of the bestseller ‘eat to Live’, vegetarian diets contain no cholesterol but they are rich in fiber and antioxidants
• Healthy option for weight loss (provided you minimise oil and vegetable fats). Research shows that it’s much easier to maintain weight loss in a healthy manner
• Vegetarian diets are known to increase longevity. According to a detailed 30-year research on residents in Okinawa, Japan, the results identified their diet of fruit, vegetables and soy as a source of complex carbohydrates that promotes longevity
• Vegetarian diets also help you enjoy enhanced energy levels as your arteries are not clogged with fat; as a result, your muscles receive more oxygen.

Contrary to popular belief that vegetarian diets are deficient in iron, you can benefit from healthy iron intake from green, leafy vegetables, cereals, dried fruit and legumes.

Summary

Even if you are able incorporate vegetarian diets a few times in a week, you can expect health benefits. As a start, try adding more vegetables, fruits and nuts to your diet.

Following close on the heels of cancer, heart disease is the one of the biggest killers. As always, prevention is better than cure. Natural remedies including meditation, exercise and diet interventions can help stave off hypertension which in turn reduces the risk of developing heart disease.

What exactly is Heart Failure?

Contrary to popular opinion, heart failure or a heart attack does not imply that the heart suddenly collapses and stops working. What actually happens is that the heart muscle (the heart is a muscle and not an organ) thickens and its pumping ability declines. Once the blood begins to move sluggishly through the heart, the body gets deprived of oxygen and nutrients required for cellular functioning. The heart tries to stretch itself to accommodate the stored blood and weakens over time.

At the same time, the kidneys try to retain fluids in a bid to match the weakened pumping of blood. This leads to accumulation of fluid in the arms, legs and lungs, thus causing congestive heart failure.

High blood is one of the biggest reasons for thickening of heart muscles coupled with high amounts of cholesterol in the blood. High blood pressure rarely manifests any symptoms and may be silently present in the body. This makes it all the more important to keep your blood pressure under control and have it checked regularly.

Natural Therapies to Keep Blood Pressure within Recommended Limits

Healthy weight Loss

Obesity is a leading cause for hypertension. As a general norm, the likelihood of developing hypertension increases with weight. Obesity also reduces the chances of medication working effectively.

Exercise

Make time for exercise or brisk walking for 30 minutes a day. Opt to exercise on a daily basis instead of over-exercising over weekends. The connection between exercise and blood pressure is very straightforward: Exercise helps your heart pump more blood and this in turn reduces pressure on arteries, making them more efficient.

The American Heart Association recommends about 150 minutes of moderate exercise every week.

Diet Intervention

Potassium is very effective at reducing the negative effects of sodium in the diet. Increase potassium intake by consuming natural fruits and vegetables including bananas. Reduce sodium intake by tracking the amount of salt you eat. Remember to read food labels as a lot of foods contain hidden salt.

Having to live with constant, chronic pain can be a miserable experience. Pain can disrupt your performance at work and interfere with the daily business of life.

According to a study published in the ‘Archives of Internal Medicine’, acupuncture was found to be an effective way to reduce pain. The technique was associated with none of the adverse effects that conventional treatments are known to induce.

Acupuncture is known to be effective in the treatment of acute as well as chronic pain.

What is Acupuncture?

Acupuncture is an ancient healing science that originated in China about 3,000 years ago. The underlying objective is to promote internal body healing by stimulating the flow of life force also referred to as ‘Qi’. Acupuncture is rapidly becoming a recognised form of therapy and popular alternative technique for pain relief.

When the energy pathways or meridians become blocked, there is a strong likelihood that we may suffer from mental and physical conditions. Acupuncture helps unblock energy paths and promotes a general sense of wellbeing and harmony.

Modern scientific interpretation of acupuncture suggests that acupuncture works by revitalising neurotransmitters, hormones and our immune system.

In addition to the nervous system, acupuncture also helps improve the endocrine, digestive and cardiovascular system.

What happens during an Acupuncture Session?

The practitioner inserts about 6 to 12 tiny, microscopic needles into specific areas into what are called ‘acu-points’. The procedure is painless and you will hardly feel the needles. Clients may experience a dull ache or tingling at the point of entry. The therapist may also ask questions about your general health history before starting a session.

Sessions typically last between 10 and 30 minutes. The number of sessions required varies based on the intensity of the problem. Most clients report reduced pain and a noticeably improved sense of wellbeing.

There are different forms of acupuncture including electro acupuncture and laser acupuncture. During these treatments, the acu-points are stimulated using a tiny current or a low-intensity laser beam.

In addition to alleviating pain, health benefits of acupuncture include:

• Improved sleep
• Helps improve energy levels
• Reduces depression and low moods
• Helps soothe indigestion and tones the digestive system
• Aids healthy weight loss

The good news is that acupuncture may be safely used in tandem with conventional medication.

Summary

Acupuncture is an effective holistic therapy for pain management

Have you been feeling stressed and tense?

Aromatherapy has been used since thousands of years as an effective holistic healing method. Lavender was used by English farmers to reduce the possibility of sunstroke.There are numerous oils and essences (essences are distilled from flowers or plants) used in aromatherapy. Lavender oil is extremely popular in aromatherapy clinics owing to its remarkable healing benefits.

Lavender oil is extracted from lavender flowers using the process of steam distillation. Lavender has a distinct fragrance of its own and offers a whole gamut of benefits right from being a natural sedative to an antiseptic. Lavender is used in aromatherapy, lotions, soaps and bath oils.

In addition to lavender oil, meditation, massage and yoga also help you relax and release stress.

How can you benefit from Lavender Oil?

Lavender offers an impressive list of health benefits.

• It’s anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent treatment for bug and insect bites. You can either choose to apply it on exposed skin or you can gently apply on a bite

• Lavender’s soothing fragrance makes it the ideal choice for those who experience difficulty in sleeping; it improves duration and quality of sleep. Many older adults find it  useful to keep lavender oil next to their pillows in order to enjoy peaceful sleep

• Lavender is an excellent treatment for anxiety and restlessness; the fragrance helps slow down feverish mental activity and helps you relax. Stress is often the underlying cause for several health conditions

• Lavender is also known to stimulate the production of stomach enzymes and bile that make it a useful aid for flatulence and other stomach disorders. Lavender is also known to soothe the lining of the stomach and improve intestine health

• It’s also an effective treatment for acne as it discourages acne causing bacteria and reduces sebum production. Lavender helps

In addition, lavender oil is also used to reduce muscle soreness and pain and is an effective healing aid for rheumatism. Lavender oil massage helps reduce the unpleasant effects of dry, itchy skin and minimises sunburn and eczema. Lastly, lavender oil is widely used in relieving cough, asthma and congestion and it loosens up phlegm.

Summary

Lavender oils are effective for those who wish to release tress and relax. It is also associated with numerous other physical and mental health benefits.

Painful periods or dysmenorrhoea can disrupt your work and daily routine. While some amount of discomfort or pain is common during menstruation, excessive cramping is referred to as dysmenorrhoea. While dysmenorrhoea is not a dangerous condition, coping with the pain and discomfort can be extremely difficult.

Dysmenorrhoea can be treated with over the counter medication and painkillers. Natural treatments including homeopathy and Ayurvedic treatments are effective for lasting relief from painful periods.

Why do some Women Experience Painful Periods?

Monthly menstruation occurs when the inner lining of the uterus is shed. During menstruation, it’s common for oestrogen and progesterone levels to decline. When the uterus lining begins to shed, it releases a hormone-like substance called ‘prostaglandin’. Women who have higher levels of prostaglandins typically experience pain and cramps.

Sometimes, contractions result in release of thick tissue or blood clots that are unable to pass through a narrow cervix canal. Acute dysmenorrhoea may also be accompanied by dizziness, nausea and vomiting.

Other risk factors that may increase pain during periods include:

• Early puberty before the age of 11
• Heavy bleeding during menstruation
• Never having had a baby (many women experience relief from dysmenorrhoea after delivering a baby)
• A tilted or uterus
• An unusually narrow cervix canal
• Emotional stress

Natural treatments can help provide relief from painful periods. Some effective remedies include:

ü  Reduction of salt, sugar and caffeine a week before the onset of periods; this helps prevent bloating due to water retention

ü  Increase in the intake of vitamins B1, B6 and vitamin E as well as calcium, magnesium and iron

ü  Taking warm baths or placing a heating pad on your back and pelvic area

Homeopathy uses plant extracts for natural treatment of health conditions. The biggest plus point of homeopathy is that it there are no unpleasant side-effects. Homeopathy offers two kinds of treatments: One that provides fast-acting relief during menstrual cramps and is prescribed only during periods. The other types of constitutional homeopathic treatment medication offer a deep action that works to treat the cause of painful periods.

In addition to homeopathy, exercise and yoga also help in the relief of painful periods. Exercise leads to the release of natural painkillers in the body called ‘endorphins’. Yoga stretches not only help reduce menstrual aches and pains but also provide relief from premenstrual symptoms like moodiness and irritability.

Hay fever can play havoc with work and leave you sniffling into tissues and struggling with reddened eyes. According to the Australasian Institute of Immunology, hay fever affects 1 out of 5 Australians and extreme fatigue may interfere with quality of life and activity levels. Typical hay fever symptoms include sneezing, itchy nose and throat, redness in the eyes, facial pain and blocked sinuses. People who suffer from asthma could also experience shortness of breath and wheezing due to hay fever.

Yoga is a very helpful natural therapy tool that helps treat symptoms of hay fever. In addition to yoga, there are also effective homeopathy and Ayurvedic treatments that help control hay fever.

How is Hay Fever Caused?

When we inhale pollen-laden air, our noses become inflamed and this leads to sneezing and itching. People who suffer from asthma must be particularly careful of hay fever as it may degenerate into full blown asthma.

When our body perceives a ‘threat’ including pollen, dust, pet-dander and grass; it begins to produce more of a specific hormone called ‘histamines’. Histamines help the body’s fight or flight impulse and try to purge the antibody out through mucus. People who suffer from pollen-allergy experience increased production of histamines.

Our immune systems are deeply impacted by our stress levels; high stress levels lead to weakened immune systems which in turn have the potential to trigger severe hay fever attacks.

How does Yoga help alleviate the Symptoms of Hay Fever?

Yoga has a host of benefits for those who suffer from hay fever. Benefits include:

• Clearing up of congestion
• Relaxed and easier breathing
• Unclogging of a blocked nose
• Your body begins to combat the production of excess histamines

If you suffer from hay fever and want to practice yoga poses, you may wish to practise yoga indoors as the outdoor areas may expose you to pollen and other allergens. Yoga breathing exercises also help warm up the body due to adequate intake of oxygen. This in turn helps clear blocked nasal airways and drains moisture and mucus.

Hormones are responsible for a host of functions in the body including reproduction, sex, moods and growth. Hormones also determine energy absorption from different foods.

What are the Signs that your Hormones may be Imbalanced?

Here are 6 common symptoms that could indicate hormone imbalance:

• Stubborn weight gain: If you are trying every diet and exercise under the sun and not being able to shed weight, this could be a sign of a hormonal problem
• Fatigue: If you feel tired despite a healthy diet and exercise, hormonal imbalance could be the cause
• Decreased interest in sex and low libido
• Unexplained mood swings and depression
• Night sweats and disturbed sleep patterns
• Food cravings

Balanced hormones coupled with the right diet and a healthy lifestyle can lead to a sense of wellbeing and fitness. Hormonal imbalances may come about due to several factors. The most common causes include a malfunctioning thyroid and adrenal gland. Other causes of hormonal imbalances could include:

• Obesity or excessive weight: This triggers excessive production of estrogens
• Less weight than recommended BMI may also lead to low hormonal levels
• Excessive exercising: Researchers have found that excessive exercising can lead to low thyroid levels and high cortisoid levels
• Non-organic, chemical and genetically modified foods (GMOs) have also been linked to hormonal imbalances

How to Treat Hormonal Imbalances in the Natural Way

1. Reduce consumption of unsaturated fats

While we need fats to store energy and keep warm, excess unsaturated fats tend to get incorporated into cell building and disturb natural hormone balance. Eat a diet rich in healthy fats like coconut oil, olive oil and omega 3 fish. Avoid fats such as vegetable oil, margarine and soybean oil.

2. Focus on getting your required amount of sleep

Lack of sleep or disturbed sleep patterns can and do disturb hormonal balance. Get 8 hours of peaceful, relaxing sleep every day.

3. Foods including Maca (a form of radish), cod liver oil, and magnesium are great for boosting hormonal balance.

4. There are excellent yoga postures that promote hormonal balance. The focus on breathing and poses has a stabilising effect on the endocrine system and this in turn helps balance hormones.

Summary

Hormones are important chemicals that promote health and wellbeing.

Paul Brent, Chief of Australia’s Food Standards, says that food additives have little or nothing to do with nutrition at all. They are a technological feature of the food industry. In Australia, food stuffs often have to travel a long distance and preservatives are a necessity from the economic point of view.

However, it’s important to realise that not everyone will experience adverse reactions to food additives; only those who suffer from sensitivity to certain food products are at enhanced risk.

Quick tips on Interpreting Food Labels

According to Australian Food Standards, ingredients must be noted down on labels according to decreasing weights.

Why are Food Preservatives Added?

• Too add desired colour; many consumers associate foods with specific colours (Food colourings have their code beginning with 100-)
• To add shelf life and extend life-span of the commodity (preservative ingredients have codes beginning with 200-)
• To prevent premature oxidation of food (If you see food codes beginning with 300-, those are antioxidants)
• Artificial Food flavours begin with 600-

4 harmful food additives

Sodium Benzoate

Sodium benzoate is added to prevent food from becoming rancid. There have been concerns over combining sodium benzoate with vitamin C (ascorbic acid) as it forms a compound called benzene. Large amounts of benzene consumption may be toxic.

Monosodium Glutamate

Monosodium glutamate is often added to foods like soy sauce and other Chinese foodstuffs for added flavouring. MSG is not recommended for those who have an allergic reaction. People who are sensitive to MSG may experience headaches or wheezing.

Nitrates

Nitrates on their own are relatively harmless and are used as food preservatives. However, a by-product of nitrates called nitrites reacts with meat proteins to form cancer causing products. Scientists are investigating the possible link between excessive consumption of nitrates and stomach cancer.

Food Colourings

Food colourings are known to worsen symptoms of ADHD in children. Children with ADHD display boisterous, hyper and overactive behaviour. The food colourings under question in Australia are sunset yellow (code 110), carmiosine (122) and allura red (129).

Chief Dietician of Royal Alfred Prince Children’s Hospital, Dr Ann Swain suggests that natural additives contain only a small amount of chemicals while with artificial additives you tend to consume a large amount at one shot.

Summary

Synthetic food additives contain a concentrated amount of chemical culprits.

Leg cramps are much more common than we realise. Most of us have experienced painful leg cramps, especially during pregnancy. Muscle cramps usually occur when a muscle involuntarily contracts and is unable to relax. It stays in the tight, constricted position and causes pain. We’ve all experienced painful leg cramps on the underside of the leg; the calf area. The pain can be severe and the cramps may linger without relief. The muscles in our calf area behind the knee are particularly vulnerable to night cramps.

How are Leg Cramps Caused?

Muscle cramps usually occur in muscles that we are unable to directly control. Cramps usually begin as a spasm that refuses to resolve itself. Leg cramps may be caused due to a number of reasons including lack of iron and calcium, poor posture or poor muscle health. Unsuitable furniture and poor posture can also cause cramps in the legs as your muscles are tight and coiled all day.

Experts suggest that night leg cramps occur because of our natural position of sleep. Most of us tend to sleep with our knees slightly bent and our toes pointing downwards. This specific foot and knee position tends to make the calf muscle shorter than usual and this leads to cramps.

In addition, cramps can also be aggravated by certain nervous conditions and an underactive thyroid gland.

Treatments for Leg Cramps

The best way to ease a leg cramp is to gently massage your muscles or stretch the leg. You can also practise leg stretches several times in a day in order to keep your leg muscles relaxed.

Here are some suggestions to minimize leg cramps:

• Use a pillow to raise your legs especially under the calf area
• Place blankets or rugs at the bottom of the bed to avoid downward pointing of your foot and toes
• Try applying a hot water compress to the area to ease tight muscles
• Increase intake of potassium. Fruits including bananas, dates and prunes are excellent sources of potassium

You may also want to increase water intake as lack of hydration may cause stiffness in muscles. Opt for loose, comfortable duvets and rugs; tight blankets will force you to curl up and point your legs downwards. Yoga stretches can help strengthen your leg muscles and reduce the risk of frequent leg cramps.