Columbus Polarity Center
for
Integrative Health and Wellness

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Columbus Polarity Center specializes in complementary therapies and holistic healthcare.
There is a wide range of qualified practitioners available for Polarity Therapy, Cranial Sacral, Rolfing, Reiki, Herbal Therapy, Aromatherapy, relaxation massage and Massage Therapy by LMTs. Our practitioners work with an integrative healthcare focus and often will provide the client with various options that will meet their needs. Many of the practitioners work together to provider the best preventive care for the client. Please check our website www.columbuspolarity.com for more details.

Practitioners at Columbus Polarity are not medical doctors, nor do they diagnose or treat illnesses or prescribe any type of medications. For medical needs consult your physician.

Healthy Tidbits

Meditation Decreases Blood Pressure!

Research from the Psychosomatic Medicine Journal gave a "thumbs up" for Transcendental Meditation which can decrease blood pressure by reducing constriction of the blood vessels which decreases the risk of heart disease.

Two groups were studied at the Medical College of Georgia. The meditation groups showed significant decreases in systolic blood pressure and vasoconstriction.

Meditation can take on many forms of practice. If you find a system that fits for you, Do It! Deep breathing combined with focus intention and/or doing a chanting tape will also be effective. Meditation techniques can also be learned very quickly. To sleep better, feel better, prevent heart attacks, Meditate! Check the Educational Section of the newsletter for classes.

*Reference: Alternative Therapies Magazine

Healthy Optimists

Researchers at The University of Michigan boast about the beneficial effects of positive emotions. According to Barbra Frederickson PhD, negative emotions tend to constrict a persons repertoire of thoughts and actions, positive emotions broaden them. By expanding possible responses to life one can build character, strength, increase social bonds and support general wellbeing and good health. Other results show that even fleeting positive emotions can produce lasting effects such as increased creativity, resilience and improved health. Positive people tend to be more successful ! !!!

*Reference: New Age Body and Soul

Don't Leave Home Without it!!!

Rescue Remedy

Working a busy schedule without much time for rest, barely sleeping five to six hours per night when you actually need eight to ten and talking on acell phone as you wait in a grocery line- all add up to fatigue, burnout and of course, stress.

Besides changing some habits, one solution would be to monitor your stress levels by adding several daily doses of RESCUE REMEDY®. Absolutely works!

Rescue Remedy has been named the number one natural stress reliever in the United States. The beauty of it all is that Rescue Remedy® is a flower in bloom and the most well known Bach Flower Essences(TM). Take 4 to 10 drops in water two to three times per day and watch your stress levels plateau out!!

Rescue Remedy Cream® is also available. It is good for stresses to the skin and parents report great success in using the cream for diaper rash. The flower essence of Crab Apple is also included in this cream for its cleansing qualities.

P.S. Can use Rescue Remedy® Safely on animals. They love it!

Order Now!

* Reference: For a local Bach Flower Essence (TM), practitioner contact Carol Bennington, Bach Foundation Registered Practitioner. Send emails to energy@columbuspolarity.com. Questions will be forwarded to Carol.

How to Care For Musculoskeletal Injuries

Immobilize and non-weight bearing for the first 48 hours.

For the first 48 hours:

Methods of application:

            - Ice bucket (20 minutes)

            - Ice bags (20 minutes)

            - Ice massage (5 to 8 minutes)

After 48 hours:

            - Heat 8 to 10 minutes, then ice 20 minutes

Compression

Methods of utilization:

            - Ace wrap with horseshoe

            - Open basket weave with horseshoe

Closed taping (not recommended initially because it can be too tight)
Alternating pressure can also be applied with an ace wrap.

Elevation

Should be done during ice and compression treatments as well as when you are resting.

Bodywork

Manual compression therapy with soft issue massage in non-traumatic areas. (See a Licensed Massage Therapist)
Specific pressure points and long massage strokes on non-affected muscles.
Polarity Acupressure Points for relaxation.

Are Doctors Closet Herb & Vitamin Users??

"How doctors stay well while treating sick people all day."

According to Bottom Line Health Newsletter Spring 2005, when it comes to their own health many doctors take herbs, folk remedies and other so called "unproven" cures that are frowned upon by the medical establishments. They use them to fight infection, lower cholesterol, protect their heart, and get rid of pains and stiffness.

Michelle Jones, Editorial Director of Bottom Line Health reported that in a recent poll 60% of doctors take nutritional supplements regularly, even though they do not recommend them to their patients!!

One of the most important pieces of the report was that doctors across the country are taking these alternative remedies with great results. So the big question is why is this happening? Most information indicates that peer pressure and possible sanctions from the medical boards are the factors. So the losers in this process are the consumers and clients that trust what the doctors tell them. Maybe we should find out what they are not telling us. Health Freedom can go both ways for medical practitioners as well as consumers. Talk to your doctor about this situation on your next visit.

Essential Herbs

Ask Charoula

Dear Charoula,

I am one of those people who love to be outdoors during spring and summer, and while I enjoy being in the sun, I worry about things like skin cancer. What should I do to protect myself?

Answer:

We all love to be in the sun when the weather warms up. But it is wise to be concerned about negative side effects when it comes to being exposed to the sun. Overexposure to UV light damages our cells' DNA, which makes them susceptible to the growth of cancer cells.

There are some herbs and foods that are safe to consume and are being currently investigated for their role in protecting the skin from cancer.

** Recent experiments have shown that three cups of green and black tea can both act preventatively to reduce skin cancer risk, as well as help reduce the spread of tumors. These teas are strong antioxidants and can assist in the detoxification of the body, which will strengthen the immune system. Interestingly, the teas should not be decaffeinated.

** As the French have known for a long time, a little bit of red wine a day goes a long way towards protecting us from skin cancers. A substance in red grapes called Resveratrol inhibits skin cancer. Similar protection can be provided by red grape juice or plain red grapes. Resveratrol is also present in mulberries and peanuts. One can take Grape Seed Extract if grapes and mulberries or red wine are not available.

** Milk Thistle is a strong antioxidant, which appears to inhibit DNA damage. Milk Thistle also strongly protects the liver.

** Eating a couple of cloves of garlic a day can help repair any damage to the DNA.

** Probably the largest category of herbs and foods that can prevent skin cancer as well as treat actual skin cancer and other skin disorders are those containing Carotenoids. These are substances derived from Beta Carotene and other similar compounds. An excellent source of Carotenes is the beautiful heart shaped leaf and flower of the Violet/ A great number of herbalists regard the Violet as the No. 1 anti-cancer plant! Carrots, beets, dandelion greens, Nettles, Parsley, and all dark leafy greens like Kale and Chard, contain high amounts of Carotenes and can be eaten safely and frequently.

** Curumin, the substance in Turmeric, can strongly reduce many different cancer tumors, including skin cancers. So sprinkle Turmeric plentifully on your daily food.

** Sesame or olive oils applied on the skin act as protection from sun

**The essential oils of Lavender, Helichrysum, and Carrot Seed are very helpful in rebuilding skin damage from sunburn.

Above all, do not stay outside in the sun between the hours of 11am and 4pm. If you must be outside, wear a hat, long sleeves and long pants!

Hope this is of help.

Charoula, Herbalist

*For more information on our herbal tinctures, got to www.columbuspolarity.com and click on online herbals.

THE ABOVE INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER/PRACTITIONER!

INFORMATION IN ANY PART OF THIS NEWSLETTER IS NOT INTENDED TO DIAGNOSE, TREAT, CURE OR PREVENT ANY DISEASE.

New Wellness Classes

Energy Movement

Energy dance-fun movement to enhance flexibility and strength. "A Healthy spirit resides in a healthy body." Dance with your spirit. Energy movement works with the 5 basic elements of life, Ether, Air, Fire, Water and Earth.

Benefits of Energy Movement:

· Spinal Flexibility

· Joint balance

· Muscle Strength

· Release stress and tension

· Balances the Chakras

Join Irina Tatarintseva, MA, APP who brings this new system of energy dance to us from her studies in the Ukraine. Every Wednesday evening 7:00-8:00 at 1253 N High Street. Parking in rear of building. Cost is $10 per class. All ages welcome and no experience is required. Polarity CEU's available.

CEU Classes

CEU Course Information

Enclosed you will find information on our Introduction to the Theory and Basic Principles of Polarity Therapy and the Science of Energy Medicine classes.

We are excited because we are now offering professional CEU's for Nursing, Occupational Therapists, Physical Therapists, Chiropractors and Activities Professionals!

Holistic Healthcare and Complementary Alternative Medicine is one of the fastest growing professions in medicine today. As a healthcare practitioner, there will be many work related opportunities for you, if you have skills and competencies in this area. We are seeing more job opportunities for healthcare practitioners who have a background in energy work such as Polarity Therapy, Reiki, Therapeutic Touch and other Alternative Therapies.

Polarity Therapy is based upon Ayurvedic concepts of healthcare, which is a system gaining wide recognition and being used by medical researchers such as Dr. Deepak Chopra. Polarity/Energy Education gives you detailed information on energy theory, stress management techniques, energetic touch protocols and the integration of systems such polarity reflex points, acupressure points and cranial sacral balancing techniques. It truly is a very integrated and holistic field of study.

For further information, please go to our website at www.ohioinstitute.com and click on the Ohio Institute or CEU button. Also email us at energy@columbuspolarity.com and/or call our office at 614-299-9438 . Registraion is also available online.

The classes meet for two days, see schedule enclosed. Snacks, all materials and a video of the class are included in the registration fee of $298.00 as well as your CEU certificate.

Dates:

June 11&12, 2005
July 9&10, 2005
August 20 &21, 2005
September 10 & 11, 2005

Cost: $298.00 for 16 CEU's All Materials and Video included- Some Scholarships Available!

CEU's available for Activities Professionals, Physical Therapists, Chiropractors, Occupational Therapists and Nurses

*Course registered by the Ohio State Board of Career Colleges and Schools (Reg.#00-01-1528T)

Course Schedule:

Educational Seminars

Learn To Meditate

-      Easy steps to effective meditation

-      Learn various methods of meditation

-      Practice specific techniques deep breaths, alternative breathing, chanting, focus and silent focus with intentional thoughts

-      Learn the benefits of meditation

-      Warm-ups before meditation

-      Class will always end with a body relaxation

3 Part Series

Class #1- Thursday June 23

7:00-8:30pm

 Class #2- Thursday June 30

7:00-8:30pm

 Class #3- Tuesday July 12

7:00-8:30pm

 Cost: $25 per class

      - $60 for all three paid in advance- handouts included

      - $20 per class for Polarity students

      - $50 for all classes for Polarity students

Come Early For Tea!!

Instructor: Dr. Mary Jo Ruggieri- 25 years of experience in meditation techniques

Place: 1253 North High Street- Park in rear of building. Turn onto Smith and then onto N. Wall St. Enter at the purple door.Pre- Register call 614-299-9438 or email maryjo@columbuspolarity.com

Children 12 and over welcome!

* Register Early! Classes Fill Quickly!

FYI

Health Freedom Comes to Ohio

· Protect your rights as a consumer to choose the type of healthcare you want.

  For more information please visit our website at

 www.ohiohealthfreedom.org

· For more info. (614) 841-7700 or email at pampopper@msn.com

Articles

Glucosamine and Chondroitin

"The Cartilage Saver "

Mary Jo Ruggieri

What is it?

Glucosamine and Chondroitin are natural substances found throughout the body, which assist and are primary to the metabolism of cartilage and connective tissue. Cartilage is the protective substance around joints and joint attachments. Through injury or the aging process, Glucosamine, which stimulates repair of cartilage, is diminished. Chondroitin, a sulfate (like a corn starch effect in making gravy) draws fluid into the connective tissue and keeps it flexible and elastic in function. Chondroitin sulfates also play a very important role in slowing cartilage breakdown. Glucosamine is derived from the soft shells of lobster, shrimp or crabs, and Chondroitin from soft cartilage found mostly in cattle.

Research Findings

Both substances have been used extensively and for years in animals, especially horses. Glucosamine and Chondroitin became popular in the 1980s and were often used by athletes to help repair joint, bone, and tendon injuries . (1) Dr. Hungerford, M.D., a professor of Orthopedic Surgery at John Hopkins who appeared on NBC's Dateline, says that he has seen a significant improvement in over 100 patients he has studied using the supplements. He is planning another study of 350 patients with moderate osteoarthritis of the knee. The National Institute of Health is also promoting studies of Glucosamine and Chondroitin and suggests that earlier results look very promising. In all the longitudinal studies, no side effects from taking Glucosamine and Chondroitin were ever reported.

How to Use it

Using Glucosamine and Chondroitin in combination with good nutrition, exercise and consistent bodywork, seems to be the most effective plan. The recommended use of the supplements is 1,500mg of Glucosamine and 1,200mg of Chondroitin per day. Most studies suggest if that amount relieves the symptoms, then after 4-5 months it can be gradually decreased. There seems to be no harmful effects with prolonged use. "James McKay, M.D., rheumatologist, says he finds that 500 mg of Glucosamine three times a day gives about the same level of pain relief as does 1,200 mg of Ibuprofen per day." (2)

Taking the supplements separate from food seems the norm but that will depend upon your digestion process.

Recommendations

            Become well informed about using any supplements- read and ask questions

            Consult with your holistic health practitioner on ideas for the best way to

            Integrate supplements into your program.

            If you are under medical care, discuss the information with your doctor.

Prolonged use of Ibuprofen has been proven to have serious side effects and switching to Glucosamine and Chondroitin may be a good substitute. Glucosamine and Chondroitin have been used very effectively to help with arthritis conditions.

 Notes

(1) Horstman, Judith. "Glucosamine and Chondroitin". Arthritis Today, Sept. 1998

(2) Ibid

* For product information go to www.columbuspolarity.com or call (614) 299-9438

 TIPS FOR STAYING HEALTHY AS WE AGE

A. Eat a balanced diet that includes raw fruits and veggies, seeds, nuts and quality protein, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, green leafy veggies, pumpkin seeds, walnuts, almonds, fish- talapia, Maui Maui, salmon (wild), whole grains and olive oil.

B. Drink good quality water and lots of it! Invest in a good water system/ drink at least 8 large glasses a day and get regular exercise. Exercise increases oxygen to the body tissues and slows the aging process.

C. Studies show regular exercise decreases depression. Get proper amounts of sleep, sleep deprivation increases the rate of aging. Get 7 to 9 hours per night, fewer results in overeating! Learn to relax and do regular deep breathing techniques.

D. Meditation/yoga/prayer- have regular downtime.

E. Do a yearly cleansing program for your body.

F. Take a good quality multivitamin and a B complex. B vitamins help with stress/ fatigue and folic acid is critical. Take around 800mcg. B12 is often low so use this sublingual. Take essential fatty acids to protect the heart, balance hormones, helps cells stay healthy and improves brainpower. Use fish oils/primrose oil or black current seed oil. Take calcium and magnesium, which will reduce, bone loss. 1200 mg. Cal/800mg magnesium also helps with leg cramps and restless legs. Also take it at night to help you sleep.

G. Use enzymes when eating to improve digestion and increase absorption of nutrients. As we age we produce less enzymes and acid to aid with digestion. If you are taking medications be aware that there are nutrient depletions associated with each and that you must compensate accordingly. For example, blood pressure meds reduce magnesium and coq10 levels. Both of which are important for proper heart function. Anti-depressants reduce all the B vitamins and they must be replaced to prevent fatigue and sleep problems.

H. The herb Gingko Biloba has been shown in studies to increase circulation to the brain and reduce memory problems. Be sure to use a standardized herb product.

I. Continued research shows that reduced inflammation in the body may reduce incidence of stroke/ heart attack, Alzheimer's and prevent wrinkling. Several herbs are powerful anti-inflamatories- boswallie, tumeric and vitamin C. Consider testing for C, the reactive protein in the blood, this indicates the level of inflammation in the body.

J. Eat small meals 6-8 times a day to control blood sugar levels.

K. Use herbs such as milk thistle to maintain a health liver.

*Reference: Dr. Kathleen A. Jones D.C., N.M.D. Hilltop Wellness Center

(614) 279-2525

Glossary

The Glossary is a tool for educating people who wish to make informed choices about Holistic Health care.

*Compiled by the Art of Well Being. info@artofwellbeing.com

Reiki

Is a healing approach that uses light touch from the practitioner to channel healing energy to the recipient. Used to relieve physical and emotional pain and to promote spiritual clarity, Reiki also speeds the healing process and balances the body's energy.

Rebirthing

Is a healing process that uses consultation, affirmations and a specific technique of conscious, connected breathing to release patterns and beliefs that may prevent full realization of goals and desires. Rebirthing can help clear limiting psychological conditions, release toxins and tensions from the body, restore the body's naturally functioning breathing, and promote an increased feeling of safety and comfort in the body.

Reflexology

Identifies and treats various conditions throughout the body by manipulating corresponding "reflex" points, located along the energy meridians of the hands and feet. Specific treatment with full-body effects.

Rolfing® Structural Integration

Employs deep manipulation of the connective tissue (fascia) to restore the body's natural alignment and aid in the integration of psychological, spiritual, emotional and physical aspects. The complete process involves ten sessions, each focusing on a different part of the body. Developed by Ida p. Rolf.

Shamanism

Employs ritual, dream work, sacred art, drumming and movement to attain non-ordinary states of consciousness and to awaken spiritual abilities connections with nature. The intention of Shamanism is to creatively invite and empower each person's relationship to their essence, to nature and to Spirit.

Shiatsu

Is an Oriental system of finger-pressure massage, which like acupressure treats special points along the invisible channels of energy flow in the body. Blocked energy along these meridians can cause physical discomforts, so the aim is to release the blocks and re-balance the energy flow. Full body or localized treatment.