While periodic starvation may sound harsh and not healing, studies show the exact opposite—when carefully done. Extensive research on large populations, as well as in controlled studies with animals and humans, shows that periodic low-calorie intake, whether through eating foods with lower caloric density (vegetables and fruits), fasting, or simply removing protein from the diet […]
Mind-body practices . . . focus on the interactions of mind, body, and behavior, with the intent to use the mind to affect physical functioning and promote health. –National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, NIH If you have children, chances are good that when they get sick or injured you put on a favorite […]
Healing relationships cultivate emotional and spiritual well-being, creating a powerful way to maintain wellness or recovery. They are typically formed between family members, friends, or other individuals with whom you share a deep connection. During the pandemic, these relationships have been more critical than ever in part due to the healing nature of relationships and […]
A good relationship between a patient and a physician is crucial and could become a lifetime — and life-saving — connection. Personally, I do something I like to call the HOPE Note when I see patients. This stands for Healing Oriented Practices and Environments Note. It is essentially a set of questions physicians can ask their patients that address the underlying determinants of their […]
With vaccines continuing to be administered and the vaccination infrastructure being bolstered, businesses will, again, begin planning for re-opening as government officials lessen restrictions in the months to come. When this happens, you will have to make many choices every day about how to resume work and social relationships in the—what feels like another—”new normal.” Discussions […]
The past 10 months have been a headache and, in anticipation of the long, trying winter weeks ahead, we are focusing on the theme of “protection” and how patients, and providers, can remain healthy—mentally, socially, and, of course, physically. As we’ve touched on several of those topics in the last few blog posts, we wanted […]
Healing spaces minimize stress, make you feel good, bring your family and friends together and can help improve your health and wellbeing. During a winter when we all will be remaining indoors and at home for our own safety—and that of others—it is crucial to develop an environment that is both comfortable and healthy. It’s […]
Recently, experts from the Harvard Medical School published a study on some of the best exercises you can ever do. It is a comprehensive list of five exercises that will help you get in shape and lower your risk for disease, “no matter your age or fitness level.” In the spirit of a new year […]
Personal wholeness is the feeling of well-being that occurs when your body, mind, and spirit are in harmony and balance. Whether you are suffering from depression or recovering from a physical ailment, it is important that you develop a mind-body practice that supports your unique well-being and recovery. In a year unlike any other—one filled […]
However you celebrated last year’s winter holidays, chances are good that you weren’t trying to avoid a global pandemic. Now, as you shop for gifts, get out your grandmother’s recipes or make plans for spiritual observance, current events might have you asking, “What’s the point?” But change gives us a chance to mix things up […]