Immune Boosting with Allicin from Garlic

Allicin is one of the active principles of freshly crushed garlic, with a variety of anti-microbial activities. In its pure form, it was found to exhibit anti-bacterial activity against a wide range of bacteria, anti-fungal activity, particularly against Candida albicans, and anti-parasitic activity. Additional research shows the ability of garlic to reduce blood lipid levels and to have anticancer effects.

The active ingredient of garlic cloves is a volatile molecule that begins within seconds of being crushed. Science has found the means of stabilization of this active ingredient, with a potency to deliver strong immune support with a low level of garlic odor or taste. The patented process, called Allisure, produces a purified allicin with a 100% allicin yield. It has demonstrated significant antibacterial, anti-fungal, larvicidal and antiviral properties, as well as reducing cholesterol and blood pressure as well as increasing CD4 T cell count, which is astonishing!

I have found this process to support the immune system for the common cold to any immune compromised condition. While nothing is capable of resolving everything, there are substances that continuously rise to the top in efficacy and efficiency. Historically, garlic has been used for medicinal purposes and today it is available in this unique form.

Visit: www.EPXbody.com

And check it out. If you would like a copy of the study, please, email me and request it. I’d be happy to forward the PDF

Wisdom of the Large Intestine

Many consider the large intestine, or colon, to be only an organ of elimination, much like the trashcan one has in the kitchen. This couldn’t be further from the truth. It has varied and important functions of digestion,  as well as support and protect our body. About 60% of the immune system is found in the intestines, so there is a connection between the body’s ability to fight infection and help us stay in a healthy condition, and the general health of the intestines, both large and small intestines.

Just below the stomach is the small intestine that is involved in further digestion and assimilation of nutrients. It is about 22 feet long and has little finger like structures called villi that do this important work. At the ileo-cecal valve, the small intestine connects to the large intestine where the bowl of the cecum and the appendix are located.

It is interesting to note that Duke University in 2007 thought they had discovered the purpose of the appendix. The article states, “. . .the appendix is a compartment well suited for maintaining beneficial or commensal microorganisms . . .” The study further said that is produces massive amounts of bacteria populating the human digestive system and is believed to protect the gut. Other scientists reviewing the paper said this theory makes sense.

These advances of scientific opinion resonate with my opinion of the appendix. I have never believed it was an evolutionary mutation that was worthless. This valuable organ acts like a bacteria factory cultivating good bacteria to be mixed with food stuff coming into the colon from the small intestine.

The challenge is maintaining this viable mix of microorganisms when medications, particularly antibiotics, are needed. This would render the appendix void of good bacteria. However, my research in probiotics offers an effective and efficient method of administration that brings the balance back to the colon rapidly.

When there are beneficial bacteria in the colon, the major functions of the organ are supported. These are the production of B-12 as well as Vitamin K, as our colon makes these nutrients. It also assimilates nutrients that are missed in the small intestine while blocking the re-absorption of toxins that were consumed in and on the food and fluids we had. It also is a recycling plant in that it absorbs bile to be reused in the digestion of fats as well as absorbs water to assist the body in hydration.

One must think of the large intestine as the final stage of the life cycle, being the decomposition portion. Just like what one does with vegetable scraps that turn it into compost for their gardens. This is the break down of food materials into compost due to the dark, moist, warm environment of the organ and the presence of bacteria.

When one has a healthy functioning colon, there is support for the liver, the kidneys, immune system and of course digestion. Understanding this gives a different perspective and respect for the final stage of digestion. A well functioning gastro-intestinal tract gives the body fuel and energy for all of our processes of life. The greater care we give our digestion, the better we function and the better we feel.

A sluggish body is often the signs of sluggish digestion that could also include the liver. Part of taking care of our digestion could include routine cleansing and re-establishing the correct balance of micro-organisms. Please consider an occasional colon cleanse, reflorastation, and possible parasite and liver cleanse. Your body deserves all the help you can give it. After all, if one doesn’t take care of their body, where are we going to live?

The Pain of Working Out

Injury with pain are so all encompassing, sometimes it even hurts to read about the accident. However, to also find solutions that bring about quick, easy, and painless relief is the positive side.

This story hurts to write and if you have ever worked with or seen a kettlebell you will understand. Michael Krivka is a nationally recognized Kettlebell instructor.  He learned about the hybrid technology of combining low level laser light with micro-stimulation to help resolve pain. Michael had not been able to sleep well for several years due to back and neck issues. One Saturday he had this technology used on him and on Sunday he slept through the night pain free for the first time in as long as he could remember.  Michael felt this was of such value, he began using this technology immediately.

At a national Kettlebell classes a lady from out of town accidently dropped a 53 pound kettlebell on her hand from about 4 feet up.  By the time Michael got to her, her third and fourth finger were sausages, discoloring and she could not close her hand more than 15 %. Needless to say, she was in extreme pain and distress.

Michael grabbed his hybrid device and worked on her hand for less than 10 minutes.  When he was done, her fingers were their normal size and the correct color.  Even more impressive was that she had full range of motion in her hand and able to continue to participate in class.  Needless to say everyone was impressed and the lady was happy to have not missed out on the joy of playing the Kettlebells.. 

When one can catch an injury fast enough, recovery time is cut by more than half and in some instances eliminate the damage before the body has time to react to the injury. In essence, it can reduce the inflammatory response the body has to injury because the injury is being resolved with light and frequency.

It is remarkable what ones body can do and how self-efficient they can be.  Having and using this technology for myself is such a bonus to the body’s natural repair and healing process.  

Where there is pain in the body, there is a 93% probably for relief. Interesting as well, with continued applications, this relief may move to resolution. The reason being, the combination of low level laser light with micro-stimulation activated ATP, which is the body’s energy source. What is occurring is natural function of the cell: the utilization of nutrients, the repair to the cell, and the elimination of the byproducts of life, called wastes.

If cells are too debilitated, then they will sluff off and new cells will take their place. If a cell is capable of regeneration, then the light and frequency will activate the cell and it will recover and begin to function as a strong healthy cell. As I observe our bodies, it is amazing the wisdom, intelligence and capability of every cell we have. Do we know “how” this occurs? In science, yes; however, the intelligence behind this healing, no, we don’t. I consider this the art of healing versus the science of healing.

When one is in pain, no matter the cause, the focus of our concern is simply getting out of pain. Medicine, like over the counter pain pills are temporary, useful, but temporary. However, it find technology that can bring about rapid relief, in as little as 2 to 10 minutes, is amazing. The list of conditions that it can help is practically endless, and certainly worth considering.

Do you believe what you see? Or see what you believe?

Perhaps when one is confronted with illness, diseases and syndromes on a minute-by-minute basis, almost every day, one believes what one sees and forgets the reality of living in a dream state. In one’s nighttime dreams, one can fly away from the problem, or plunge into danger and awaken to find themselves safely in the comfort of their own bed. If one has had the experience or training to Lucid Dream, one can even change the results in their “night time dreams” before they awaken to the daytime dream life.

One’s life can be seen as a dream with continuity, where one awakens every morning to their dream-life that isn’t recognized as a dream, with a continuity of the problems, people and circumstances from the day, or week, or year(s) prior. Stretchy concept, isn’t it?

A philosopher and thinker, Albert Einstein said: “Reality is merely an illusion, albeit a very persistent one.” Does this perhaps explain the continuity of life’s dream state? As a great scientist, Einstein spoke of “spooky action at a distance” as he related to coherence in mathematical generators that were responding to events prior to their occurrence. It is seen before major disasters, such as massive earthquakes, and before the events on 9/11/2001.

Another German born physicist, Helmut Schmidt, is discussed in Bruce Lipton’s book, Spontaneous Evolution, on page 274. In his work, he connected a random number generator to an audio device to record clicks in either the left or right ear of a set of headphones. Later, a volunteer was asked to mentally influence the outcome of these clicks. To his surprise, Schmidt found that the volunteers could indeed influence the distribution of clicks on tapes recorded two days earlier, if and only if, the recorded clicks went unobserved until after the volunteer had the chance to influence them. Consequently, if they had been observed prior to the volunteer’s time with the tape, there was no subsequent influence on the clicks.

Modern day speaker, presenter and participant in The Secret, Mike Dooley, stands on his key phrase: thoughts become things: choose the good ones. In his books and recordings, he discusses many aspects of engaging the magic to create change in ones life. Seemingly the most important one is visualizing the end result without determining the numerous possible “cursed hows” of getting there. Tomorrow comes with it’s own set of resources.

So how does one relate to these ideas? Perhaps if one’s life is fabulous in every way, one needn’t. However, if one finds that anything out there is disrupting one’s joy, one might attempt to influence the unified field. Let’s look at some common phrases that might be heard in today’s world:

  * In this economy, of course I don’t have enough work.

  * Sometimes, I feel like I’m preaching to the choir, why doesn’t everyone get the importance of …

  * The standard medical model just doesn’t accept integrative medicine.

Yup, yup, and yup. Phrases are thoughts manifested into words. So according to Dooley, the Universe has to manifest these results when one has an attachment to the validity of the statement.

TRUTH doesn’t care what rules one makes, it simply unconditionally supports those beliefs. It’s part of one’s dream, or one’s illusion; one can change the nightmare into sweet dreams by adjusting thoughts, words, deeds and behaviors to support a new goal. One can also change the rules so one always wins when there is understanding on how to change the rules. Interesting?

In adjusting ones thoughts, bringing them into line with Truth more rapidly activates the results. Monitoring words in both an offensive and defensive manner is important. Offensively, one speaks of the desired results as if it has already occurred. Defensively, one avoids words that would contradict the end results as well as avoiding discussions with others that support i.e.: “the recession” as listed above. As for cultivating ones deeds and behaviors, begin to demonstrate gratitude and methods of operating in the new desired belief system. (Isn’t there enough for everyone in a dream?) One cannot know when or how the Universe will enter into your affairs, only that it will. Therefore it is important to stay the course and take whatever steps are available – just for today. Tomorrow, continue with the available steps. One only looses if and when one gives up.

The understanding of phenomenal power available to each and every one comes with great responsibility. So how does one fit into the equation of being a reality creator? Become a thinker, visualize, verbalize the sought after end results and take small steps toward the goal. Move with consciousness to honor the responsibility one has with higher knowledge.

As an experiment, challenge yourself to repeat the following phrases with gusto and emotion for several minutes each morning, perhaps getting ready for the day or on the drive to work. Make this commitment for only 6 weeks. Then evaluate the benefits in your life.

  * It’s all easy.

  * I am inspired and motivated when I need it most.

  * I receive new ideas when challenged by any serious situation.

  * I’ve got all the time in the world.

  * I always have the right thing to say, at the right time, and to the right person.

  * I have total clarity.

  * I live deliberately and consciously.

  * My body is a self-regulating, self-healing point of light.

  * I hone my skills and improve my talents.

  * I summon new opportunities.

  * I’m worthy.

  * There’s enough for everybody.

 (Psst, it's okay to make up a few of your own, first person, present tense, and positively charged.

If at the end of the 6 weeks one isn’t pleased with their progress, one can always make this a cross over study by returning to old beliefs and behaviors.

If you wonder what you believe in, observe your life. If this is unpleasant and one would like to change their dream, instead of believing what one sees, one can now begin to see beliefs by changing thought, words and actions. While one could argue that we live in a physical universe, study of the unified field suggests otherwise. In conclusion, I would offer this thought: “Let’s behave physically but with spiritual awareness. Choose the good ones and take the high road.”

Would you like more information on these concepts. If so,  email Dr Victoria for a free CD to clarify these ideas.

After Antibiotics, Why Not Probiotics?

-->
One might ask, “How can something be life saving and life threatening at the same time?” The broad answer could be, “Whether this something is used appropriately and not overused.” Antibiotics have been available since the 1940s and have been used successfully to treat bacterial infections such as pneumonia and even sexually transmitted diseases.

The latest information in the United States is that there are 833 prescriptions written for every 1000 people. That’s 4 out of 5 Americans, every year. With this overuse comes the problematic resistance that causes these life saving medications to lose effectiveness, necessitating larger doses, longer time using them and the mutation of bacteria to no longer be affected by the medication.

There are also times that antibiotics are used for the wrong reasons. Many times ear infections are viral in nature, whereas antibiotics are used for bacteria. To prescribe an antibiotic “in case” there is a bacterial infection later is a misuse. One particular antibiotic is frequently used for the symptoms of bronchitis, however a virus usually causes bronchitis. In these cases, the antibiotic may not be warranted and could contribute to the loss in efficacy when it is later needed, as well as the increase in resistance.

A number of years ago, I received an autographed copy of a ‘novel’ entitled: Probed by Aliens. It was written by one of the holistic physicians who studies biologically based medicine. The premise is that a civilization many light years away so over used antibiotics that they were destined to become extinct as their immune system and defenses became ineffective. So they traveled to earth to extract ‘healthy bacteria’ from the mucous membranes of the abducted aliens.

While I don’t think we are that close, we have certainly compromised our health and made the overuse and abuse of antibiotics life threatening. The super bugs and the increase in Clostridium Difficil are alarming. Without a swift turn around, things will continue to decline. However, my research into probiotic rectal infusions holds great hope. In fact, my holistic research is based on scientific research published in numerous medical journals over the last 30 years.

The first such article was published in 1983 in the Lancet. It reported only 4 cases in the study: two were for chronic constipation, one with constipation from an influenza-like syndrome, and one with irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhea and abdominal pain. The conclusion was: Bowel function promptly returned to normal in all four cases and remained normal (one or two normal stools a day) without further treatment. This article motivated me to accumulate other valuable research on the use of bacteria to rebuild the microbiota of the large intestine.

Since 1991 when I read the Lancet article, I have tested and used multiple strains of probiotics in retention rectal infusions. It’s safe, efficient and effective. It also bypasses the digestive juices of the mouth, stomach, pancreas and small intestine. Essentially, one is placing the right stuff in the right place and giving it an hour to colonize in the dark, moist, warm environment of the sigmoid colon. This method is 100% effect with often only one application, whereas oral probiotics are often destroyed by hydrochloric acid and other gastric juices.

After one hour, one can empty the bowel if needed. In the next three days, the bacteria will continue to multiply and stabilize the entire large intestine. Some people are hesitant because of the sensitivity and privacy of the rectum, however it is the best delivery system. As mature adults, let’s make decisions based on knowledge. Once we’re over this hurdle, it’s an easy treatment that takes only a few minutes.

I received an email earlier today from a client in Canada. She was visiting Arizona and came to see me for body pain as well as constipation. Her email said, “My body has been in good working order since receiving the irrigation treatments. I just wanted to touch base with you, and hopefully I will be back in November. I will be in touch shortly before then and hopefully be able to make an appointment with you.”

  

How can Dr Victoria help me? Check out her services :)

Risk and Rewards of Digestion

Our gastro intestinal tract is a complex system that digests food and absorbs nutrients to feed our cells; it is also where 90% or more of our immune system works. The third component of this system is that it is where we find a high concentration of toxins. In addition to this, there are many nerve endings in the intestines so emotional stress affects the system. No wonder so many people complain about digestive issues.

One must remember that digestion starts in the mouth as one chews, since saliva contains enzymes that begin to break down carbohydrates. Once food reaches the stomach, hydrochloric acid and pepsin begin the digestion of proteins and fats. As this “mush” moves into the small intestine, pancreatic enzymes mix continue this process. There is also enzymatic activity at the level of the villi of the small intestine where nutrients are absorbed thru the intestinal wall into the blood stream. This is an amazing process!

One of the most interesting facts is the population of the intestines. There are over 500 different species of bacteria in human intestines. It is a highly complex and genetically diverse population that interact with one’s entire body as somewhere between 40% and 80% of the immune system resides. This bacterial community is called the microbiota and can be greatly affected by stress that increases the level of inflammation in ones body.

In a study published in Brain Behavior Immunology 2011, mice were exposed to a social stressor and the findings stated, “Stressor exposure significantly changed the community structure of the microbiota, particularly when the microbiota were assessed immediately after stressor exposure.”  The Bacteroides (common to mammalian intestinal flora) were decreased and the Clostridiums (about 100 species of which 5 are responsible for diseases in humans) were increased. This certainly indicates that stress weakens the innate immune system of the intestines and causes changes in this balance.

As inflammation increases, so do diseases such as cancer, auto-immune diseases (Sjogren’s, Lupus, Rheumatoid Arthritis) and the specific auto-immune diseases of the large intestine (Crohn’s, Ulcerative Colitis, Inflammatory Bowel Disorder) as well as cardiovascular disease.

While many diseases are treated with medication, the side effects often affect the large intestine with either diarrhea or constipation. Many disrupt the microbiota, leaving the digestive tract further susceptible to inflammation and infection. The use of antibiotics destroys much or all of the microbiota leaving the body at risk.

As patient complaints rise, one might look at simple and effective ways to bring healthy balance back to the microbiota. There is evidence that the quality and quantity of bacteria in the intestines contributes to the reduction of inflammation in the body. Certainly fermented foods such as kefir, yogurt, kim chee, kombucha, and sauerkraut have wonderful digestive value, as do cleansing procedures. Colonic irrigation therapy promotes large intestine cleansing as it removes pathogenic bacteria, fungi, yeasts and parasites. Without re-establishing a healthier balance, these pathogens can quickly reproduce in the dark, warm and moist environment of the large intestine. The introduction of selected probiotics when administered in a suppository form will rapidly establish a healthy microbiota that has a beneficial effect on the digestion, liver, kidneys, and immune system.

To maintain and promote healthier digestion, one can look at food combining for easier digestion, take digestive enzymes when appropriate, add vegetable juicing to their daily program, and eat smaller meals. From an emotional angle, one can take 10 or 15 minutes each day to sit quietly and participate in some form of meditation or biofeedback technique, with rhythmic breathing and a removal of thought, ‘just let things go’. When one can find a method to release stress, studies have shown that it will support ones physical health.

Whatever approach or combination one uses, the value is in greater quality of life and energy to enjoy all that is beautiful.

Fat Soluble Toxin Cleansing

One certainly feels “dirty” after working in the flower beds planting their spring flowers and tending to the rose bushes; all the while enjoying the beauty and fragrance. However, once we are done, a good shower, shampoo, and scrub is needed to remove the dust and debris. This isn’t much different from what the inside of one’s body needs as well.

Often I’m asked, “Where do these toxins you speak of come from?” From the air we breathe, anything that touches our skin and on foods we eat. It could be anywhere and everywhere. One evening I was driving home from a meditation group when I remembered that I needed to get a couple of cans of cat food, as the cabinet was bare. I knew I wouldn’t be sleeping if I didn’t show up with food for my two fluffy felines.

While I didn’t normally shop at this particular grocery, it was on my way home and it had later hours than most stores. As I parked my car in the lot, an exterminator truck pulled in and began unloading the equipment. My eyebrows went up and I scurried into the store, picked up two cans and made my way to the check out line just as the service man began his job. I took a big gulp of air into my lungs, grabbed my purchase and hurried out of the store without breathing.

One of my challenges has been allergies and sensitivities. I knew if I was exposed to this I would have challenges and need to do a big cleansing detoxification. So I hurried out before there would be much exposure. There are “studies” that show the pesticides are “safe” however they attack the nervous system of bugs, so who’s to say it doesn’t also affect us. I would rather avoid any exposure and be safe, instead of sorry. Fortunately, I didn’t have any bad reactions.

I just wondered, if I had arrived at this store 30 minutes later, I wouldn’t have known that I was walking into an area that could compromise my health.

The interesting thing about one’s body is the ability to store toxins as a safe guard against damage. There are both water soluble ones and fat soluble ones. We often store the fat soluble ones in fat. So when one cleanses, the fat and cellulite reduces in quantity. Getting fat to release isn’t as easy as water soluble toxins, which can be released by sweating.

Two of the easiest and most successful means of getting to the fat soluble toxins are using far infrared saunas and colon cleansing to address the bile. Let’s look at the far infrared sauna therapy first. This invisible band of electromagnetic light spectrum warms objects without first warming the air between the source and the object. The tissues of ones body selectively absorb these rays as the water in the cell reacts in a process called “resonant absorption.” The frequency of the far infrared matches the frequency of the water in the cell causing toxins to be dropped off into the blood stream. Then it is excreted in sweat, feces and urine.

The toxins excreted in the feces can be bound in bile which is a digestive component involved in fat and oil digestion, hence the binding of fat soluble toxins. When one cleanse the colon and dumps old bile, the toxins in the bile is also eliminated. However, one must be nutrient rich in minerals since it takes minerals to make new bile salts. One’s body recycles bile so that it is stored in the gall bladder and reused as needed during digestion.

A method of removing the toxins from the bile while not needing to eliminate the bile is reflorastation. This is the rectal introduction of probiotics in quantity, quality and variety to provide many varieties of lactobacillus and bifida bacterium to carry the toxins away in the feces without needing to remove the bile. We might consider this planting "flowers" in ones large intestine to bring health and beauty to it's soil.  One must admit that our bodies are amazing in their ability to protect and care for us. Our job is to give it the opportunity and methods to do its job easily and effectively.

So avoidance is our first line of defense and cleansing is the second.

Acidity, Toxins and Diet Contribute to Disease

There are many things one can do on a daily basis to turn the corner on disease. While one might not be sick, the simple daily habits of living life can contribute to the quality of life and the enjoyment of living. Many think that a sweet dessert is "really living" and then they reach for an over the counter pain pill to feel better or a sleeping aid to stop the tossing and turning that keeps them from a restful night's sleep.

Acidity is a factor in the quality of life one has. The more acid one's body is, the more strain is put on our kidneys. Their job is to remove liquid toxins from the bloodstream and reduce the acidity as well. If the cells and tissues are too acid, the kidneys can only do so much and the remaining acids must be buffered somehow. Typically, this is done by robbing calcium from our bones and possibly teeth; and then storing these in places like tissues or joints. When this gets bad enough, one's doctor might say, "You have arthritis!"

Maybe there is arthritis, but is it preventable with a lifestyle change? Or would one prefer to take an arthritis pill, to reduce inflammation. The chemical components of the medication can also contribute to the acidity of the body. This becomes a vicious cycle.

One's second challenge is toxins from the exposure one gets in daily living. While modern science and technology gives us phenomenal advances, there are secondary aspects that can be harmful. One only needs to look at the plastics industry to see the damage one incurs by the use of Bisphenol A (BPAs) for storing water and food. The main concern about BPA is that it exhibits hormone-like properties that raise concern about its suitability in consumer products and food containers.

One must remember that just because the toxins go in through our food and water, land on our skin or are breathed into our lungs, doesn't mean they are successfully eliminated. There are numerous methods by which one deals with toxins that aren’t easily expelled. One stores toxins in fat, dilutes it with water in the form of edema (and appears puffy), might have excessive candida (yeast), or makes lots of mucus to slick away the toxins when expelling the mucus.

The third aspect of contributing to disease that one has tremendous control over is how and what one eats. Grabbing a quick bite to eat might be a necessity occasionally, however it shouldn't be the routine. Refined foods, fast foods and foods of poor nutritional quality are undermining ones health.

Taking the time to select quality food and prepare it with mindfulness contributes to wellness. Perhaps the one change that can have the biggest effect is drinking small quantities (4 – 8 ounces several times a day) of mixed vegetable juice. This increases the alkalinity of ones food and reduces the inflammation associated with acidity. Mixing those vegetables to include flavorful ones that add a little zing to the mix can make it much more delicious.

Portions can also be important when thinking of our meals. If one were to divide their plate into quarters, it becomes easy to visualize a successful meal. One quarter is for protein, animal or vegetable. One quarter is for starch, such as a slice of bread or serving of potatoes or rice. The other two quarters are for complex carbohydrates, such as steamed or raw vegetables; however include in this about one or two teaspoonfuls of high quality oil. These essential fatty acids, from olive oil, sesame oil, and safflower and avocado oil (as well as many other kinds) go a long way in decreasing inflammation caused from both acidity and toxins.

Whatever one does, being mindful and aware can turn the direction of our choices. So, here's to your health.

 

It Certainly Beats Living with Pain

One day I heard the comment, “Pain is all encompassing.” And I wondered if it was true. In less than a week’s time, I had hurt myself and the statement became real. It was a couple days before I was able to get the cause of the pain resolved, and I had reason to contemplate those words in the quiet hours of a sleepless night. If pain has kept you awake, I’m certain you identify with my experience, and I do yours.

Well, one might try a heating pad or a hot shower, or an ice bag to reduce the pain. Massage helps sometimes, or other hands on treatments. I’ve reached for analgesics to lower the pain. Low on my list is over the counter pain medication because I don’t like how it makes me feel, nor do I like the effects on one’s liver and kidneys. However, I’ll use them when the pain is intense. I’m certain you’ve considered many of these and perhaps a few more.

When pain is a part of daily living, one’s first thought might be relief, just give me relief. Breaking the pain cycle is important because it allows the body to do things differently. Finding a way to get relief and to follow it with resolving the cause is my ultimate goal. This experience spurred my interest in finding additional ways to treat pain.

In my toolbox of treatments and modalities is a little device that is a hybrid of two modalities. The first is a very low level laser light. This kind of light source is notable for its high degree of spatial and temporal coherence. When talking about light waves, this means that the waves are ‘in phase’ with each other. Coherent light from a laser has a single wavelength, is highly ordered and well organized. This kind of coherence can affect our tissue cells to stimulate the cell’s innate metabolism that promotes healing.

The second part of the hybrid is micro-current electrical therapy. This applies a small amount of current to the body measured in millionths of an ampere. When applied to injured tissue, this normalizes the ordinary activities within the cell to enhance the normal physiological processes of the cell.

When these two modalities are combined there can be a 93% probability in relieving pain. The good news is the time spent in treating an area with this device is as short as two minutes, however it can be used for longer times when needed. It can also be repeated at intervals to continue the healing of the cells and promote more opportunity for resolution of the pain. One can call this a cascading effect. As the device is used it begins with the cells closest to the skin, with additional use, the frequencies go to deeper and deeper cells like a waterfall cascading in a stream.

Last April, I was working with one of my horses and hurt my low back and foot, severely. By that afternoon, I couldn’t flex my ankle or hardly walk. I hobbled out to feed my horses, had a small dinner and lay down to nurse my pain. Grabbing my device, I used it for 10 minutes on my back, 10 minutes on my leg, and finally 10 minutes on my foot. I rested a while and repeated this. Within a couple of hours I was able to sleep, what a relief. I awoke with the ability to walk without a limp and a 50% reduction in the previous day’s pain level.

I continued to occasionally work on the areas, probably a half dozen times for 10 to 15 minutes during the day. By evening, the pain was even less. I was thrilled as we were hosting a reception in our back yard the following day. Decorations needed to be finished, food to prepare and all the excitement of friends gathering to celebrate a friend’s marriage.

As the party approached, I spent one last application of to my healing back and foot, put on my party clothes and pretty shoes! Yes, I could wear my shoes! The afternoon and evening was a delight, fun was shared. After everyone had left, I looked back on the last three days and was amazed and thrilled that an injury had healed so quickly, and the pain dropped to allow me to enjoy the festivities.

While some pain takes longer than others, many get help. 93%, that’s awesome. Even long standing pain is relieved, and over time, some resolution is achieved. It certainly beats living with pain.

Testamonial for Bowmann's Bowen

"I have experienced knee, ankle, foot and neck injuries after years and years of running, hiking, biking and playing sports. I am extremely active and not very easy on my body.
An active friend of mine referred me to Bowen Therapy years ago for Plantar Fasciitis. I went for 3 treatments and hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon within the next month without a stitich of pain in my foot!
Since she fixed my foot, I go back any time my body bothers me. I rarely see my chiropractor anymore as I feel I get better results with Victoria Bowmann's Bowen therapy. I have referred about 10 people there and all have had positive results. The trick is to keep going after the first round. I usually don't start to feel better until about 2-3 days after the first session and then when I go again, it's even better and my pain is 100% gone by the third round.
At first I was nervous to go to such an alternative place, but now I don't want to go anywhere else!
Thanks!
~ Haillie"

Cheer for the Small Intestine

One rarely gives credit where credit is due when it comes to our marvelous digestion. After all, this is our fuel to power each and every cell, every moment, all day long.

Some digestion happens in the mouth, proteins and fats are digested mostly in the stomach, which also functions as a temporary reservoir. The rate of emptying the stomach will depend on the contents: a carbohydrate meal leaves the stomach in 2 to 3 hours, protein will remain a little longer and fatty meals remain the longest. These contents are called chyme when they leave the stomach for the duodenum, the top portion of the small intestines.

The pancreatic enzymes are excreted into the duodenum with a pH between 6 and 8, which brings the pH of the chyme to a level optimal for assimilation. The pancreatic secretions consist of water, mineral salts and a variety of enzymes. There are numerous enzymes each with specific functions to complete the digestive process of the variety of foods we consume each meal.

• Amylase converts starches to sugars
• Sucrase splits sugars into glucose and fructose
• Maltase acts upon malt sugars
• Lactase digests milk sugars
• Lipase converts fats to fatty acids and glycerol with the assistance of bile salts from the liver and gall bladder
• Peptidase converts peptides to amino acids
  

As the chyme enters the small intestine through the pyloric sphincter, it has begun a twisting, turning expedition of about 5 meters or 16 feet. It is almost like a carnival ride coiling through finger-like villi in slick tubes. They are under 1 cm in length and enclose in a network of blood and lymph capillaries. The walls of the villi consist of epithelial cells that absorb nutrients and, in some cases, complete the final stages of digestion. From here the nutrients are carried throughout the body in the blood.

What is left is a journey through the large intestine to decompose this stuff to “compost” material and elimination. Let’s give a big cheer for small intestine and it’s marvelous accomplishments.

New Years Resolutions for Success

Most everyone is considering this time of year to begin change. Lose weight? Stop smoking? Get in shape? Are the top three, however, most of these resolutions are broken and set aside within 30 days. Is there anything one can do to improve their odds to success?

Pareto’s principle states that 20% of the people do 80% of the work, and 80% of the people do 20% of the work. So which group are you in? or what will you consciously choose today? Sometimes it isn’t what one does as much as it is doing something in the general direction of the goal. So when setting a goal, make a list of as many as 10 things one can do to make that goal more achievable. 

Let’s take a look at what one might put on their list:

Ten things to help me lose weight:

1.     Eat breakfast

2.     Drink 8+ ounces of water a few minutes before each meal

3.     Use a smaller plate

4.     Set my utensils down between bites

5.     Taste my food and enjoy each bite

6.     Count calories, carbohydrates and fat grams

7.     Take a walk after dinner to limit nibbling

8.     Prepare a little snack at night to curb the munchies

9.     Remove tempting foods from the cabinets

10. Be accountable to a family member or friend

Ten things to help me quit smoking:

1.     Check with the doctor on cessation programs

2.     Learn to do self hypnosis

3.     Don’t carry cigarettes, set them somewhere else

4.     Chew on a toothpick

5.     Learn to meditate and do so 15 minutes twice a day

6.     Call oneself a “non-smoker”

7.     Join a support group like “Smoker’s Anonymous”

8.     Take a multiple vitamin

9.     Drink water to flush the nicotine away

10. Look for alternative help, like homeopathic medicine

Ten things to get in shape:

1.     Set a reasonable goal with small goals

2.     Start slow so one doesn’t get “sore”

3.     Enlist a friend to work out or walk together

4.     Have a change of routine depending on weather or time limits

5.     Play lively music to get you moving

6.     Learn to meditate and do so 15 minutes twice a day

7.     Reward oneself on a weekly or bimonthly basis, such as going to see a movie or some other fun activity

8.     Put goals together, get in shape and shed 10 pounds

9.     Get up 15 minutes early for a pep talk and compliments

10. Visualize the body of your dreams: svelte, energetic and healthy

Many times, success comes not with doing everything right, but by doing something consistently. Even 80% of ones program will bring success, it just might take a little longer. Also, these don’t have to be all or nothing. If one “falls off the wagon” then regroup and begin again (before January of next year). It’s ok to forgive oneself, have a big sigh, nod your head in agreement, and start again. After all, these goals are lifestyle changes that will offer a higher quality of life, and that’s worth the effort.

Hangover Help: Cleanse the Liver

The festivities are over, the decorations have come down, and yet many folks are dragging as they go into the New Year. There was too much sugar, including alcohol, too many indulgences, which includes loss of sleep or disrupted sleep. While many love this time of year, it takes it’s toll on the body.

One’s most challenged organ during this time is the liver: the body’s detoxification organ. It processes and clears out all the indiscretions that are tossed its way. So taking a little time and effort to give one’s liver some support can reap wonderful benefits, such as increased energy, vitality and well being.

There are several things that can be used to activate this process. There are numerous products available for a liver cleanse. The herb milk thistle, also known as silybum marianum, is a liver cleansing herb from the flowing plant of the daisy family. It is best combined with other herbs and nutrients to do a more thorough job. When one takes a product like this, slow is best. Occasionally one will feel nauseous, if so, reduce the amount one is taking at one time, or cut the dose in half and take twice as long to complete the process.

Certain foods are also very good for assisting the liver in its daily job. Beets are a great cleanser and delicious when baked. Trim the greens from the top and part of the tail, rub with oil and bake like one would a potato. When ready to serve, slice into the skin and peel it away before serving, season to taste. Another food that can be eaten is zucchini. According to Henry Bieler, MD, author of Food is Your Best Medicine, this vegetable helps to rebuild the liver. It can be eaten raw or cooked or juiced, as well as combined with other vegetables in a stirfry, steamed, or salad.

It is also important to keep the intestines working well, since the liver dumps the trash into the colon. There are herbs to help with constipation and using probiotics to fortify these organs is important too. Whatever you do, the New Year is a great time to cleanse away the old. Find out my favorite products to assist in this process.