SSDI vs. SSI

I have had, and continue to have, numerous questions about the difference between SSDI and SSI. Summarized below are the key differences.

The SSDI and SSI programs are the largest of the Federal programs that provide assistance to people with disabilities. Generally, the medical requirements for disability eligibility are the same under SSDI and SSI programs, but the way these programs are funded differs.

The SSDI program is funded by the Social Security taxes paid by employed individuals. Therefore, the SSDI program is based on a person?s work experience. The SSI program is funded by general tax revenues and pays benefits to people with disabilities who have limited income and assets, and is based on a person?s financial need.

SSDI: Social Security Disability Insurance is an insurance program that sends out monthly checks to disabled workers who have paid Social Security taxes (called FICA on your paycheck stubs). You must have worked for at least 5 of the past 10 years before you apply to be currently insured, or covered, but the minimum time is less if you're under age 31 when you become disabled. The amount you get depends upon how much you have paid in taxes and for how long, since SSDI is an insurance - not a welfare - program. In general, the higher your earnings have been and the longer you have earned them, the higher your SSDI check will be. Benefit amounts vary from a low of about $200 monthly to a high of about $1,600; the average SSDI check is about $850, but this average does reflect low wages paid in the South, in rural areas, and in small towns.

SSDI checks start at the end of the fifth month after the date of onset, the day you became disabled under the Social Security rules by meeting the medical rules as well as not engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA?). The number of work credits you need for disability benefits depends on your age when you became disabled. Generally you need 20 credits earned in the last 10 years ending with the year you became disabled.

However, younger workers may qualify with fewer credits. The rules are as follows:

? Before age 24?You may qualify if you have six credits earned in the three-year period ending when your disability starts.

? Age 24 to 31?You may qualify if you have credit for having worked half the time between age 21 and the time you become disabled. For example, if you become disabled at age 27, you would need credit for three years of work (12 credits) out of the past six years (between age 21 and age 27).

? Age 31 or older?In general, you will need to have the number of work credits shown in the chart shown below. Unless you are blind, at least 20 of the credits must have been earned in the 10 years immediately before you became disabled.

Born After 1929, Become Disabled At Age Credits You Need

31 through 42: 20
44: 22
46: 24
48: 26
50: 28
52: 30
54: 32
56: 34
58: 36
60: 38
62 or older: 40

The easiest way to check your financial eligibility is to request a Summary of Earnings and Benefits. You can obtain a request form as well as apply on-line at http://www.ssa.gov/howto.htm and click on: ?How To Request a Social Security Statement of Earnings and Benefits.? You may also obtain a form to request the Statement at any Social Security office and most post offices. Ask for: ?Request for Social Security Statement (SSA-7004).?

SSI: Supplemental Security Income is a welfare program for disabled people who meet the Social Security medical and SGA disability rules and whose income and assets are below the eligibility levels. SSI allows assets of $2,000 liquid; a separate bank account of up to $1,500 for burial; a vehicle of any value, if used to go to medical care; household furnishings; certain self-employment business equity and equipment; and a lived-in home of any value. The SSI income level in 2002 is $545 per month (but it's higher in most wealthy industrial states, which supplement this amount). All gross income counts against this level: SSDI, earnings, pensions, gifts, contributions, bank interest, dividends, veterans' benefits, etc. If your SSDI check is below the SSI level, you can get SSI as well as SSDI. Before comparing gross income to this level, SSI disregards (i.e., doesn't count) $20 per month of any income, out-of-pocket Impairment Related Working Expenses (IRWEs: medical costs you pay to enable you to work) and $65 and half the rest of any earnings. If the resulting countable income is above the SSI income level (again, $545 in most---but not all-- states), you're not eligible. If it's computed to be less, you get an SSI check for the difference between your countable income and the SSI level - and, as a fringe benefit in most but not all states, a Medicaid card.

SSI?This is known as Title XVI (16) Supplemental Security Income. This program is for people who either:

? Have not paid enough quarters (earnings) into Social Security for any reason.

? Have limited resources and income.

Although you must be disabled according to SSA?s definition, you must first meet SSA?s strict resource eligibility test prior to your medical condition being considered. If your resources exceed SSA?s limit, you cannot collect SSI irrespective of your medical disability.

Do You Qualify For SSDI???

The Social Security Administration has provided this online test for people to use so that they can decide for themselves if they are eligible.

BENEFIT ELIGIBILITY SCREENING TOOL (BEST)

https://s044a90.ssa.gov/apps12/best/benefits/

About DisabilityKey.com

The Disability Key Website (http://www.disabilitykey.com) is designed to assist each person in his/her own unique quest to navigate through the difficult and often conflicting and misleading information about coping with a disability.

Carolyn Magura, noted disability expert, has written an e-Book documenting the process that allowed her to:

a) continue to work and receive her ?full salary? while on Long Term Disability; and

b) become the first person in her State to qualify for Social Security Disability the FIRST TIME, in UNDER 30 DAYS.

To download Carolyn's e-book, click on the following link: http://www.disabilitykey.com/products.htm

Is Your Health Portfolio Balanced?

Is Your Health Portfolio Balanced?

We are all aware of the need to balance our financial portfolio so that in times of hardship or when disaster strikes -- stock market drops, pink slips, etc -- we will be affected by financial challenges as little as possible. Having a substantial bank account allows us many opportunities that people with lesser financial savvy and preparation must forego.

Perhaps you are at a ?comfortable? financial level, able to pay off bills and credit cards timely, and have enough disposable income to enjoy a good quality of life. Perhaps you enjoy an ?extremely high? financial level, with unending ?toys?, travel when and where you want, and other opportunities for the ?good life?. Either way you are able to handle sudden financial challenges and able to take advantage of financial opportunities as they come your way. Feels good, doesn?t it?

But what about your health portfolio? When faced with challenges such as a cold, flu season, children?s ear infections, etc. do you just accept them as part of life? What about when disaster strikes in the form of a serious health challenge to you or a family member. Is your health bank account equipped to fight back?

In the United States, the average age of disability (when quality of life becomes so poor that you need help for daily activities of living) is 65 years old. Modern medicine is providing miracles in keeping us alive longer -- increasing our ?lifespan?. But what about the quality of our lives? If we want to continue our ?healthspan? along with our ?lifespan?, it is imperative to raise the level of our health bank account as well as balance our health portfolio.

If you think the cost of health care has gone through the roof now, wait until the majority of baby boomers reach the ?age of disability?. Now is the time to take a serious look at your own health bank account and ask ?Do I have all the energy I need each day??, ?What is my ?cushion? in case of serious illness?? and ?Does my health portfolio need balancing??

? Jan Barosh 2004. Permission is granted to reprint this article in print or on your web site so long as the following paragraph is included and contact information is provided to http://www.janbarosh.com

Jan Barosh?s degree is in health and physical education with post- graduate work in exercise science and psychology. She is a licensed corporate wellness coach and a certified teleclass leader and has helped adults and children be more healthy and fit for over 25 years. Her philosophy is prevention through sensible health habits with a goal of lowering health care costs for all of us. Jan has developed a unique weight management program called LifeWeight? which is being taught in the US and licensed for distribution in the UK.

Pain Management

Even the word pain hurts to those of us who endure levels of pain each day. Pain management is what the doctors tell us to do. This sounds great in theory, but what does it mean, and how does one go about doing it? These are excellent questions. It probably sounds logical, but the better you are at describing your pain to others, the better you can get help in managing pain. And, pain management is the key!

The best way to document and comunicate pain is to use what I call a pain scale. I set this up in what I call a matrix, where I have a chart with four columns as follows: The left column is for pain level, from 0 being NO PAIN (right, like that's gonna happen!) and 10 being so painful that NOTHING YOU DO seems to decrease the pain level.

In the next column, you describe the pain at different levels. I use the following: 0 = No pain; 02 = low levels of pain, an Over the Counter (OTC) remedy can get rid of it; 04 = moderate pain, need double the strength of the OTC remedy to dull the pain; 06 = heavy moderate pain, need double the strength of OTC remedy, but the pain isn't dulled, and activities are curtailed (decreased); 08 = heavy pain, need something stronger than an OTC remedy, and one must sit/lie still; and, finally, level 10.

The next column is the most important one, where you describe specifically what the pain feels like, and use many VERY SPECIFIC examples of how this specific level of pain impacts your normal daily living activities. I cannot stress how important it is to be as specific, and as complete with your examples as you can be. Also, you need to guesstimate the % of time a day/week that you routinely have this pain.

Here are some examples that I use:

02 - The low levels of pain are primarily headaches and backaches. I can take an OTC remedy, and rest for about 30 minutes, and the pain goes away. This level of pain comes about 2X a week, and only lasts for the 30 minutes until the OTC remedy kicks in. This level of pain does not keep me from doing my daily activities. BUT, I need to get on this level of pain immediately, or it will increase in level if not addressed and removed.

04 - This level of pain occurs in my hands, arms, legs, feet, and head. It is like the muscles are hurting, and the joints hurt. This level gets my attention; I take double the advised level of OTC remedy, and get some hot tea, and rest lying down. This level usually takes about an hour to manage, and I have to stop whatever I am doing to lie down until I get it under control. This level occurs about 10% of the time, every other day, usually in the evening. This level makes me depressed, and when depressed, the level of pain often increases to the 08 level.

08 - I usually go straight from 04 to 08, skipping the 06 level. This level is incapacitating. It feels like the worst flu you have ever had, where EVERY muscle and joint in my body hurts! Even my teeth and scalp hurt. Light hurts my eyes; sound hurts my ears; movement makes me nauseous. I take triple the OTC remedy, and a hot shower. I have a stool in the shower where I can sit and let the hot water shower down on me until I run out of hot water (I do this after I take the meds, and try to stay in the shower until I feel the pain beginning to receed). When out of the shower, I have room temperature ginger ale (hot or cold liquids hurt my head), and lie down with soft music - no words; with a cool washcloth over my eyes in a darkened room. This level of pain occurs 2 or 3 times a week, and lasts for about 20 - 30% of the day. I cannot function in any activity at this level of pain. When the meds kick in, the pain is only reduced to the 04 or 02 level.

10 - at this level, no OTC remedy helps; the shower doesn't help; nothing helps; the pain is just reduced to the 08 level. Need greater help than an OTC remedy. This level occurs about one time each week, and literally knocks me out. Now for the last column, and, this one is very important for long term pain management. In this column, you document what, SPECIFICALLY you were doing just before this level of pain was triggered! This will help both you and your Doctor determine what will help you.

For me, the doctor really noticed the comment about depression linked with pain, and the comments about taking above recommended levels of an OTC remedy. He prescribed for me an anti-depressant, and a pain medication in lieu of the OTC remedy. These meds, in conjunction with the meds for joint pain and for the tingling pains, allows for me to regain some of the normal daily living activities.

Good luck for you in documenting your pain levels!

About Disabilitykey.com & Carolyn Magura: Disabilitykey.com is a website designed to assist each person in his/her own unique quest to navigate through the difficult and often conflicting and misleading information about coping with disabilities.

Carolyn Magura, noted disability / ADA expert, has written an e-Book documenting the process that allowed her to:

a) continue to work and receive her ?full salary? while on Long Term Disability; and

b) become the first person in her State to qualify for Social Security Disability the FIRST TIME, in UNDER 30 DAYS.

Click here to receive Carolyn 's easy-to-read, easy-to-follow direct guide through this difficult, trying process. If you are disabled, don't let this disabiling process disable you. Read Carolyns Disability Key Blog.

Medicaid vs Medicare

Just like there's confusion over the difference between SSDI and SSI, there's confusion over the difference between Medicare and Medicaid.

So, here in a nutshell, is the definition of each.

Medicare - the very same health plan that retired people over 65 enjoy - can be obtained after receiving SSDI for 24 months. (NOTE: ONCE YOU QUALIFY FOR SSDI, YOU HAVE TO WAIT FOR 29 MONTHS BEFORE RECEIVING YOUR FIRST CHECK.) Medicare has two parts: Part A, which you pay for through your payroll taxes, and which covers overnight hospital bills, hospices, home health care and very limited, partial nursing home care. And Part B, three-fourths of which is paid for by federal income tax, and one-fourth ($84.00 a month in 2006, deducted from your SSDI check) by you. It pays for doctor, ambulance, emergency room, clinic and most other outpatient care (except drugs and nutritional products).

As of May 15th, 2006, Medicare now has a Part D which covers partial payment of prescriptions. Most people who qualify for Medicare select a Supplement package that covers additional things such as Doctor visits (minus the co-pay) and other things usually covered by a Health Insurance Plan. You have to pay extra for this. If you become eligible for Medicare after May 15th, 2006, you have to select a carrier for Part D. This can be included in your supplemental package, as mine is, or it can be a separate coverage.

Medicaid is run by the state and local governments. It completely covers hospitalization, clinic visits, emergency room visits, doctors' visits, hospices, home health care, nursing home stays, ambulance and outpatient prescription drugs. Medicaid has very small co-payments for prescriptions, doctor visits and some other care. While all hospitals and almost all drug stores accept Medicaid, most doctors don't, and many home health agencies, nursing homes, and hospices are also reluctant to accept Medicaid. People on SSI are eligible for Medicaid, and in most but not all of the states in the nation, SSI sends lists of recipients to the local government, which then automatically sends Medicaid cards out to them. But in some states, you must always apply separately for Medicaid at the welfare office, even if you're on SSI.

It's possible - indeed, sometimes it's absolutely necessary - to be on both Medicare and Medicaid. In that case, Medicare first pays medical bills up to whatever its rules allow, then Medicaid pays the rest. Always get Medicaid, if you can, to supplement Medicare, because with it, you'll have a way to pay deductibles and co-payments that you would otherwise face without it. Moreover, Medicaid pays for some things Medicare doesn't cover at all. Conversely, always get and keep Medicare (including Part B) even if you are already on Medicaid. Medicare pays doctors and hospitals more than Medicaid does, and therefore will make them more likely to accept you as a patient and devote adequate time to your case. Don't be afraid of the Part B monthly premium, either. Once you're on Medicaid, it will start paying the Medicare premium for you, and your SSDI check will go up by $84.00.

According to the Social Security Administration some assets are considered exempt (not countable) toward SSI eligibility such as:

? The house an individual lives in and the land it is on;

? Personal and household goods (depending on their value);

? Life insurance with a face value of $1,500 or less;

? Burial plots or spaces for the individual and immediate family; burial funds for the individual;

? A car with a current fair market value up to $4,500. The car may be of any value, however, if it has been modified to accommodate a person?s disability or if it is needed for necessary activities.

Some of an individual?s income is also not counted toward SSI eligibility such as: The first $20 of most income received in a month (from any source); the first $65 a month earned from working and half the amount over $65; food stamps; most food clothing and shelter from non-profit organizations; most home energy assistance. If the individual with a disability works, any wages used to pay for items needed for work related to the disability are not counted as income. (Source: Social Security Administration.) Since eligibility for government benefits is dependent on these financial restrictions, a person with a disability would be in jeopardy of loosing those benefits if he or she amasses any resources above the limit.

About DisabilityKey.com The Disability Key Website (http://www.disabilitykey.com ) is designed to assist each person in his/her own unique quest to navigate through the difficult and often conflicting and misleading information about coping with a disability.

Carolyn Magura, noted disability expert, has written an e-Book documenting the process that allowed her to:

a) continue to work and receive her ?full salary? while on Long Term Disability; and

b) become the first person in her State to qualify for Social Security Disability the FIRST TIME, in UNDER 30 DAYS.

To download Carolyn's e-book, click on the following link: http://www.disabilitykey.com/products.htm

Appeals Against The Denial of Disability Benefits

Filing for disability benefits is one thing and getting it is quite another. The government is ordinarily quite willing to let you have the benefit but at times it happens that you think you are entitled to the benefits but the authorities think otherwise. So, where to go? Do you need to file for reconsideration?

If the reconsideration application is rejected, go in for a formal appeal before the Administrative Law Judge. Your case will be given a thorough and independent examination here. And you'll be given a full hearing with every chance to present your case in detail. An expert may also be called to give his opinion on the status of the claimant's disability.

If your case is rejected here the next appeal lies before the National Appeals Council, which is headquartered in Washington. This is an independent review of the ALJ's decision. The appeals council does not conduct a hearing.

If the Council also concur with the decisions of the earlier forum and rejects your appeal, you may institute a lawsuit in the federal court. This is part of a formal civil litigation and by filing a lawsuit you put in motion the judicial machinery of the state. The lawsuit will be contended by the authorities through a lawyer and it is advisable that you too hire one so that you do not suffer due to inadequate representation before the federal court.

In case the federal court decides against you, you may approach the federal appeals court against the decision. If the appeal fails, the only option you are left with is the Supreme Court, which is the apex judicial body.

It is not mandatory for one to hire a lawyer to represent one at any stage. However, if your initial appeals have not found favor with the authorities while you feel that your case has merit, it is better that you let a competent lawyer file a lawsuit for you so as to make sure that no legal point in your favor escapes the notice of the judge.

If you do not hire a lawyer before reaching the stage when you have to approach the Supreme Court, it would make things difficult for you because the apex court is unlikely to allow a fresh legal contention that was not raised before any of the earlier appeals. It is, therefore, advisable that you get yourself a lawyer the moment you decide to set the judicial machinery of the state in motion.

To get more information about disability, social security disability benefits and disability aids visit www.about-disability.com

Rigid Versus Folding Wheelchairs Explained

Disabled athletes are rarely seen competing in a folding wheelchairs. Why? The reason is increased performance of rigid wheelchairs. All athletes seek to optimize performance. But performance is not only important for sports wheelchairs, it is important for active everyday users as well. A well designed rigid wheelchair becomes part of the body of a disabled user allowing easier access and freedom of movement. What are the features of a rigid wheelchair that give superior performance?

?Reduced Maintenance and Weight: Folding chairs have lots of movable parts that undergo strain. These parts must often be regularly adjusted or replaced to keep the chair in alignment. Because of this strain, thicker walled aluminium is required and therefore the wheelchairs are usually heavy. Rigid wheelchairs have fewer movable parts and fewer things to go wrong. Rigid wheelchairs are generally more durable and age better than folding wheelchairs.

?Much of the energy from the push on the wheels is lost in the flexing parts of the folding wheelchair. Since the rigid wheelchair has fewer movable parts, most of the energy from the push on the wheels is translated into forward motion. In short, the rigid wheelchair may be easier to push than a folding wheelchair.

?Due to the need to fold, the folding wheelchair design might not be optimized for performance. For example, the casters of the folding wheelchair are usually placed well behind the foot-rest, in order to allow the wheelchair to close properly. This design puts a lot of weight on the casters. With the rigid wheelchair, the distance between the footrest and casters is usually much shorter; placing more of the weight on the rear wheels. Less weight on the casters makes the rigid wheelchair easier to turn.

?Because rigid wheelchairs are lighter and more manuverable than folding wheelchairs they, perform better, that is, they are easier for the user to move in. But this is not an advantage only for athletes. Imagine a wheelchair user going up a wheelchair ramp without assistance. This can be more difficult in a heavy folding chair, than in a manuverable, ultra-light, which can be lighter by 10kg or more.

?In summary, due to weight, design, and fewer moving parts, the performance of a rigid wheelchair is usually better than a folding wheelchair. This difference may become even more noticeable as the wheelchairs age.

Performance is only one of the advantages of a rigid wheelchair over folding wheelchairs. Below is a partial list of advantages of rigid wheelchairs over folding chairs:

Better Body Fit (Design): The primary design of a rigid wheelchair is to fit the body of the user. The primary design of a folding wheelchair is to fold. Folding wheelchairs are generally boxy, while rigid wheelchairs conform to the shape of the body. For example, with a rigid chair, one can taper the design to conform to the body shape (large at the hips, narrow at the knees) which can hold the users? body in place. Also the frame between the knees and footrest can be tapered (wider at the knees, narrow at the feet) holding the feet in place. With a folding chair, you can not taper it or it would not close completely.

After Market Adjustments: Rigid wheelchairs generally have more configurations and adjustments then folding chairs. Most folding wheelchairs have limits in their configurations and adjustments. For example, many folding wheelchairs do not allow for adjusting the angle between the backrest and the seat.

Independence: Users can easily make transfers from rigid wheelchairs into some cars independently. With a folding wheelchair, the user usually requires a companion to fold the wheelchair and put it in the car trunk. With some forms of rigid wheelchairs, the user can transfer into the car and from the inside of the car, remove the two wheels, fold down the back rest and bring the wheelchair inside the car and place it either in the back seat or on the floor. An independent transfer would be more difficult in a folding wheelchair.

Esthetics: Some rigid wheelchairs are designed to be attractive. Folding wheelchairs are rarely considered attractive, only functional

What is the advantage of a folding wheelchair? Mainly there is one advantage: a folding chair can be stored in a trunk of an automobile without removing the wheels. Rigid wheelchairs are not for everyone, but many people who are now using folding wheelchairs are better off in a rigid wheelchair.

Who is the right customer for a rigid wheelchair? Someone who:

?Has good upper body strength

?Wants to be independent

?Is young and active (5-50 years)

?Sees their wheelchair as part of their body and not just a piece of furniture

Who is the right customer for a folding chair? Someone who:

?Will never be independent or has no upper body strength

?Has minimal upper body strength or coordination

?Is very young (0-4) or older (60-90)

In summary: A rigid wheelchair is generally purchased for the users? convenience. Folding wheelchairs are generally purchased for companions? convenience.

Dr. Gene Emmer is President of Med Services Europe (http://www.MedServicesEurope.com). Med Services Europe develops sales in Europe for Medical Manufacturers. Med Services is the Europe Representative for Colours Wheelchairs (http://www.ColoursWheelchair.com). Colours is a US manufacturer of ultra-lightweight, active Wheelchairs. Med Services Europe has recently launched ?New Disability? a website dedicated to innovative disability products and assistive technology. Manufacturers of innovative disability products who are seeking distributors in Europe are encouraged to contact us at http://www.NewDisability.com.

Sun Exposure and Prostate Cancer

Go get a tan and reduce your risk of prostate cancer. Sun exposure appears to be one way to reduce your risk of prostate cancer. A recent study by some UK Researchers show that moderate exposure to sunlight significantly reduced the chances of prostate cancer; this research seems to be confirmed by many other studies as well throughout the world. Many cancer researchers believe this is due to increase vitamin D. Does this means you should go out and join a nudist colony right away and start sunning in your birthday suit? Not necessarily although the British researchers would certainly not advise against it, joking; ?it could save your life??

Although the same researchers were quick to point out that each year fewer and fewer men are dying of prostate cancer, due to awareness, better treatments and early detection through new and more available screening techniques. Men with low sunlight exposure were said to have a three times greater chance of prostate cancer. When taken from a lifetime sun exposure standpoint it was further determined that children who had occasional sunburns in fact were less likely to get prostate cancer in their adulthood.

Where as sunlight exposure was attributed to lower rate of prostate cancer many are quick to point out and rightfully so that too much sun can significantly increase your risk of non-melanoma skin cancers. It would appear from this study and other like it that a balanced approach to sun exposure should be considered to reduce your risk without increasing it. Think on this and do your own research.

Lance Winslow

Walking Is Good For Mental Health

One of the most natural things that an individual does every day is to walk. For years, this single act has been linked to improving cardiovascular health. The reason is because, generally, walking is a safe movement that isn?t likely to cause injury. New studies have shown that walking is also a terrific way to improve your mood. The next time you are feeling a little blue, there may be a way to walk it off - literally.

A recent study paired individuals into groups, one of which spent 30 minutes on a treadmill and the other that participated in 30 minutes of rest. Each group?s progress was monitored throughout the treatment with a conclusion that both groups reported having less negative feelings at the end of the study, along with less stress and tension. The difference, however, was found when the group that spent 30 minutes walking also noted an overall improvement in well-being.

While the study further proves the theory that walking is good for mental health, as well as physical, it also lends credence to the theory that people who walk feel better overall. It also proves that an individual does not have to be outside in order to enjoy the benefits of walking. This simple exercise can be achieved with a treadmill or by simply walking in place while tuning into a favorite movie or television show.

Anyone who has been diagnosed as having clinical depression or other illnesses should not ignore, or disregard, his/her medical treatment program. Walking is simply a way to sometimes add further improvement to certain conditions. A simple 30 minute walk can benefit an individual?s mood, improve cardiovascular health and combat obesity all at the same time. In order to be effective, many people find that a daily walking schedule will help to keep them motivated and improve their spirits. In addition, a regular schedule will ensure that there is a time set aside for a walk. It?s very easy to think, ?I?ll get around to it later,? but something more often than not will distract individuals away from exercise unless they have a certain schedule that is followed every day.

The information in this article is intended for informational purposes only. It should not be considered as, or used in place of, medical advice or professional recommendations for an exercise regimen. Every individual should consult his/her physician prior to beginning any program consisting of diet and/or exercise.

Find more about health clinic, day spa and Canada clinics.

Herbal Medicines The Most Popular and Effective Natural Remedies

We've Come So Far - How Much Better Can Alternative Medicine Get?

Herbal and natural medicine has gained so much more attention than it ever had in the past seven to ten years. So, why is that? There must be something to it other than a consumer trend or a fleeting fad. And there is - a whole lot more. Consumers are finding that herbal medicines are helping them in many of the same ways as traditional medications prescribed by physicians - without the high cost, sometimes adverse side effects, and over-prescribing and combining of too many meds at once.

Herbal medicine is one of the oldest forms of healing and aiding the human body and mind and eliminating or alleviating human suffering. Hippocrates, one of the most famous philosophers and earliest proponents of natural medicine and herbal healing, believed that humans were meant to live in harmony with nature, and that nature itself prescribed cures and antidotes for human ailments - we just had to find out through trial and error which of nature's plants were the best choices to heal various human illnesses of the mind and body.

Hippocrates notoriously believed that we should let food be our medicine and medicine be our food, meaning we only had to look as far as our environment and natural surroundings for cures and remedies to heal and mend ourselves, as well as to keep our bodies in optimal condition for as long as possible in order that a productive and meaningful life may be lead.

Herbs, natural compounds and botanicals were discovered to have dramatic healing capabilities as well as therapeutic properties for health maintenance and prevention centuries ago, before modern medicine evolved into what it is today. The most interesting part of the history of herbal medicine is that herbalism simultaneously occurred in vastly different areas of the globe.

What we know today as Indian herbal medicine, or Ayurvedic, Chinese herbal medicine and western herbal medicine, all have deep roots of ancestry going back as far as 202 BC. The fact that so many cultures came up with their own version of natural medicine is pretty staggering. What's even more fascinating is the culmination of all of these cultural medicines paved the way for modern, man-made medications that we all know today.

What are the Most Popular and Effective Alternative Remedies Today?

Remedies for lack of sleep, stress relief and relaxation, depression, anxiety, pain, weight loss, hair loss, skin problems and more are some of the most popular and in-demand herbal products currently on the market today. Along with these, there are more obscure remedies for illnesses and physical conditions, such as hemorrhoids, smoking cessation aids for withdrawal symptoms, cold remedies, and even herbal medicines purported to help people with cancer and even to help prevent cancer cells from forming.

While herbal medicine may be regarded by some with skepticism, especially those in the medical and pharmaceutical profession (go figure), its long standing usage and history of effectiveness is nothing to be scoffed at by any stretch of the imagination.

If you really examine what herbal medicines are and how they are discovered, is it really all that different from modern medicine? Not only that, but most modern medications have been derived from nature, albeit they are in an altered and corrupted form in the final stages of manufacture. Still, they have largely begun in a naturally biochemical state.

Herbal medicines have come a long way since their ancient origins, and are making new strides every day, just like modern medicine. Not only that, pharmaceutical engineering and medicine have actually helped to make more powerful and effective herbal remedies. In a way, the real journey for herbal medicines and alternative methods of healing has just begun!

Visit Effective Herbal Medicines for information on the most effective herbal medicine products on the market today ranging from anxiety and stress formulas to skin supplements. Danna Schneider is the founder of Herbal Therapeutics Natural Remedies, which offers the latest in herbal medicine and alternative healing.

Aerobics Let Me See You Sweat

Don't you remember, it was the 80s and lots of people were doing it. Even those that weren't doing it, were talking about doing it. There were shows all over television. These people were standing in formation, wearing leotards and leg warmers. They were doing what looked like exercise, but this wasn't called exercise, it was called aerobics. It looked like a combination of dance and exercise. But what was this new form of sweating?

The age of aerobics can be credited to Dr. Kenneth Cooper. Dr. Cooper was an exercise physiologist for the US Air Force and he couldn't understand how some people, who seemed in great physical condition, were not able to perform at a high level when they were swimming, long distance running and bicycling. He began testing people's performance, using a bicycle ergometer and focusing on the human body's ability to utilize oxygen. In 1969, Dr. Cooper published a book called Aerobics, which documented what he had learned through his testing.

The word aerobic means, with oxygen. Aerobics are supposed to increase the amount of oxygen in the blood and then have this blood flow to the muscles. Aerobic exercise can produce many benefits; it burns calories and increases the body's metabolism, both of which help in losing weight. Those people that went through Dr. Cooper's testing, discovered even more benefits of aerobic exercise. These included; toning muscles all over the body, making the heart muscle stronger, improving the respiratory muscles and increasing the number of red blood cells in the body. Regular aerobics can also help reduce cardiovascular problems.

The 1980s saw the television air waves and media in general flock to the aerobic craze. Hollywood stars were knocking each other over, in their quest to be the next star with an aerobic video on the market. Funny thing is, none of these stars were widely known in the exercise industry, until aerobics came around. I guess that maybe the inside joke of the aerobics era was that so many people purchased videos from people who weren't even experts in the field of aerobics. Maybe that's what star power is all about, being able to sell a product that you have very little knowledge of.

Even though aerobics was an overwhelming success, it had its doubters. Many felt that aerobics wasn't a balanced exercise program. This was mainly due to the fact that aerobics didn't require the use of weights. Light weights could be added to the aerobic exercise, but not the kind that would build muscle strength. Many people saw this as a flaw in the aerobic program. The problem with this specific complaint is that Dr. Cooper never set out to build up the body mass of the individual. His main concern was to see if the body could perform at a higher level, by increasing its oxygen intake.

The 90s saw a decrease in the star power of aerobics and brought more professionalism to the industry. Organizations like Aerobics and Fitness Association of America created certification programs for instructors. Aerobic athletes also competed in national and international competitions.

Michael Russell Your Independent guide to Aerobics

Chromortherapy ? Healing by Color

Chromotherapy is a form of healing based on the principle that all illness is manifested in a disturbed energy field (giving off light), and by the proper application of color to this energy field, a correction can be achieved, and with that correction comes healing.

Experienced and well trained chromotherapists use both color and light to balance the energy fields, and claim to effect a reversal of negative reactions manifesting in our composite physical, mental, and spiritual make up.

Although not yet proven by the modern scientific method, the chromotherapists believe that their methods are indeed scientific, and instruments to verify the results are not yet manifest. Furthermore, chromotherapists adhere to the belief that colors do indeed bring about identifiable emotional reactions in people.

The treatment in chromotherapy is in the application of color and light to specific areas on the body. The therapists believe that colors have both positive and negative effects on the body?s energy fields; with some specific colors in specified doses can effect the actual healing.

The therapists use a whole range of color carriers and emitters such as gemstones, fabrics, prisms, light wands, and colored water in baths.

Here is a quick and easy guide, based on chromotherapists guidelines, as to the meaning of specific colors and their role in healing:

Red

Red is the color of life, associated with the sun and of fire. Red increases the heart beat (pulse) , raises blood pressure and the rate of breathing. Red would be used to assist all circulatory functions and is used with confidence to fight anaemia, asthma, diseases of the throat, chronic coughs, and other related illnesses. A person who emitting an excess of red could be very dominating, cruel, perpetually angry and anxious.

Orange

Orange is the color representing both empathy and sympathy. Chromotherapists claim remarkable results in the use of orange to treat mental illnesses of both depression, pessimism. Orange is also used for the treatment of cardiovascular diseases s, appetite loss, and other diseases of the circulatory and digestive systems. A person emitting an excess of orange is often confused, tired and pessimistic.

Yellow

Yellow represents the sun. As the brightest of the colors that are commonly used in color therapy, it reflects light in all directions, and gives the feeling of detachment and liberation. Yellow cancels out feelings of heaviness or oppression. Yellow is also employed to treat diseases of the glands the lymphatic system It strengthens the nervous and immune systems. A person emitting an excess of yellow is often could confused and is both malicious, and devious.

Green

As green gives a gentle harmonizing effect, it is the color associated with calm and peaceful feelings. Green therefore is the color associated with concentration. Green is used, in the treatment of bronchitis, all manners of cough, arthritis. rheumatism , and edema. It is also believed that green has a positive influence on the treatments of all manners of cysts, diseases of the eye. and diabetes. Green further is said to promote the glandular processes, promote relaxation of the organs and stimulate general detoxification of the body. A person emitting an excess of green is lethargic, insecure and jealous.

Blue

Blue is universally the color of both peace and the unknown. Blue is said to have the power of putting our bodies and mind is a state of peace and rest. Thus blue is used for relieving headaches, stomach aches and muscle cramp. Blue is also used to treat the liver. Generally, blue is used against any form of pain. A person emitting an excess of blue is usually doubtful, distrustful, anxious and melancholic.

Indigo

Indigo has a cooling color effect that assists in one?s intuitive powers. Indigo is effective in the ailments of the ear, nose and throat, and also mental problems. Due to its calming and cooling effect, Indigo is effective in cases of addiction. It is also said to help stop bleeding and to help open wounds to close. A persona emitting an excess of Indigo is often violent, irrational and a slave to his or her habits

Violet

Violet is universally considered the spiritual color, and thus the color associated with meditation. Violet is used as an aid in acupuncture; further violet is employed in the treatment of the lymphatic system and spleen. As violet also has a generally calming effect, it is used where a person is overly distraught and high-strung. A person emitting an excess of violet is often fanatical.

The fact that color is light the essence of life and we see and react to it before anything else is the basis of chromotherapy and is a fascinating subject, which will be the continually debated and researched in the alternative health community.

For more infomrmation on health including chromotherpay and other alternative health topics please visit:

http://www.net-planet.org/newage.html

Getting Rid of Those Acne Scars with Laser Treatment

Have you had to live with scars from acne or acne treatment? They now have this space age therapy using light to help you. With few side effects or discomfort, skin conditions may be greatly reduced or eliminated with this treatment. It's a boost to the self-esteem and a brightening to your future.

Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) therapy reduces and removes acne scars and age spots. But, unlike tanning, it doesn't age your skin further or induce skin cancer. The targeted light is shone onto the affected skin, perhaps those scars remaining from acne treatment, for a very limited time each session.

Depending on the condition, the light may be calibrated to your blood to remove those red, spider veins or to the melanin coloring in your skin to remove age-related spots or sun damage. At the same time, it treats those old acne treatment scars. The light damages those areas so that your body sloughs off or absorbs the treated condition. In addition, the old collagen, the connective materials between your cells is replaced by new.

Old collagen, like an old foam pillow, looses its resilience over time. The new collagen plumps up your skin to a fresher level. This helps to fill in small wrinkles and, yes, the scarring from acne and acne treatment.

For severe scarring resulting from acne or acne treatment, a combination of surgery (for the deep ice-pick scars) and laser skin resurfacing might be recommended. For those with lesser problems, the IPL therapy offers the advantages of zero downtime and minimal discomfort.

During an IPL acne treatment session, the doctor cleans the surface to be treated and numbs your skin with a cream. After a few moments, the IPL device is targeted for the condition and placed over the treatment area, which may include more than just those areas affected by acne treatment. The light pulses and feels, some report, like the snap of a rubber band. It is moved over each spot on your face, and that's pretty much it for one treatment.

You may have skin redness that persists for a day or so; and you must protect the treated area from UV light. It usually takes five or six treatments over four to six weeks for maximum results.

Not everybody who has skin damage or acne treatment scars is a candidate. And, a skin patch test is needful to make sure it is safe and effective for you. Your dermatologist is the one to make this evaluation.

You'll want a doctor who is experienced with IPL therapy and does the treatment himself. He should question you closely about medical history and carefully examine your skin and the acne treatment scars. He may also make recommendations supplements you may be taking before your IPL therapy begins.

However your acne may have happened, your IPL treatments will most likely result in a healthier, fresher looking skin with reduced scarring from old acne treatment, and elimination of red spider veins, age spots, and minor sun damage. And your dermatologist will be able to help you through every step of the way.

Written by Ryan Edwards, UK dermatologist specialist. Author of Best Acne Cream website at http://www.bestacnecream.com. This article may be reproduced without prior permission but must include this author box.

Discover The New Science Of Glyconutrition And Fibromyalgia

I have worked with a number of people who once suffered from the symptoms of Fibromyalgia or from Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome are two similar disorders with overlapping symptoms. They include chronic fatigue, sleep disturbances, immune system dysfunction and psychological depression. People with Fibromyalgia also experience muscle and fibrous tissue pain, as well as gastro intestinal challenges. The cause or causes of Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome are unclear and some regard them as syndromes rather than actual diseases. Therefore, established medical treatments are based on the management of individual symptoms and can often be a game of cat and mouse for the medical professional.

With such complexities it is easy to understand why the role of nutrition in Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome has largely been overlooked. However since we now understand the importance of dietary components like glyconutrients (Mannose, Fucose, Galactose, Glucose, Xylose, N-Acetylgalactosamine, N-Acetylglucosamine and Sialic Acid) in regulating the immune, nervous, muscular systems as well as cell-to-cell communication in general, it is apparent that the biological activities of such nutritional components may play a significant role in maintaining proper function of those systems.

Also associated with these two conditions is an abnormal sleep pattern. Any number of gland failures resulting in hormonal imbalance may influence this. As sleep is a function regulated by a number of hormonal factors, nutritional support of glyconutrients as well as certain plant sterols may provide benefit in this area by supporting improved production and coordination of key hormones.

Some studies have shown possible linkages of viral and bacterial infections, such as Herpes, Coxsackie B and Lyme disease, to Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. The reason for this is that many of the symptoms are closely associated with that of an active infection. There is also a high association with the diagnosis of either of the conditions and a positive test for one or more of these pathogens.

Other scientific evidence also suggests that Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome are related to immune system dysfunctions based on measurements of various immune markers in patients with these disorders. This can be measured in levels and activity of Natural Killer Lymphocytes, Cytokines such as Interleukin as well as other immune system factors. Through the measure of this activity, some studies have suggested that these two conditions may be autoimmune in nature. Whether or not they are, it is apparent that support of proper immune system function through improved nutrition can bring benefits to those suffering from any of the effects of these conditions. For example, acemannan, has been shown to enhance the killing activity of Macrophage against Candida Albicans, and can be found in certain glyconutrient supplements.

Regardless of the precise mechanisms in Fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome it should be apparent from the review of scientific and medical literature that all systems of the body are intimately involved in the syndrome. Proper dietary support for the cells from which these systems are composed calls for appropriate levels of a range of micronutrients. This is not limited to mere vitamins and minerals, but may also involve other categories of so-called phytonutrients including anti-oxidants, plant sterols and glyconutrients.

Find your optimal health support plan at with our Cellular Health Plans at http://www.glycowellness.com/GD.html

Skin Cancer Prevention Could Fish in Your Diet Make a Difference?

Deramatology Researchers at Hope Hospital, Salford, Manchester have uncovered exciting evidence that oily fish in your diet could help in the prevention of skin cancer.

Omega 3 oils in fish have long been associated with health benefits in conditions such as poor concentration in children and protection against heart disease and dementia, but it now appears that these essential fatty acids protect the skin against the DNA damage that can cause skin cancer.

Sun burn is a major factor in the development of skin cancer. Fair skinned people are particularly susceptible and sun burn increases the chances of developing skin cancer at a later date.

The research consisted of a group of 42 healthy people being given a fish oil supplement that would be the equivalent of three portions of oily fish a week.

After one month, they were less likely to burn and after three months, their resistance had risen to 33% less likely.

A group of people who suffered from sun allergy doubled their defence after 6 months.

These groups were measured against a third group who had been given olive oil which had no effect.

The protection derived from the change in diet would be equivalent to a permanent mild sun screen but would not protect against fierce sun.

Many people only apply sun screen if they're officially sunbathing and then it can be patchy.

Serious damage can happen in as little as 15 minutes - maybe walking to the shops or taking the dog out - doing a bit of gardening - how many of us would bother to put sun screen on for those tasks?

In the UK, skin cancer rates have doubled every decade since 1940 and there are now around 100,000 new cases and 2000 deaths a year. These increases are reflected in pale skinned people all around the world.

Much of the increase in the UK has been put down to more people taking holidays abroad and exposing themselves to excessive sun. However, there are many days in the UK when it would be advisable to protect ourselves but because the climate is mild overall, we don't bother.

Increasing oily fish in your diet is easy - even canned fish (apart from tuna) retains the omega 3s, so salmon, mackerel, sardines and the like can all be used straight from the can.

Now is the right time to make the change in the Northern Hemisphere, so you'll have the additional protection by next summer.

Liz Alderson is the webmaster of http://find-a-seafood-recipe.com which is a free fish and seafood recipe site giving advice on buying, preparing and cooking fish and seafood.

You are free to use this article on your site, but the Resource Box must remain and the article must be unaltered.

Home Remedies: Acne Anxiety and Anorexia

The use of these simple remedies can help relieve some of the annoyances that plague us every day and provide a holistic alternative solution to our little health problems.

Acne

Acne is a chronic skin condition wherein blackheads and pustules appear on the skin surface of the face and other parts of the body such as the back and chest. It is a malfunction of the sebaceous glands. These glands normally produce sebum that keeps the skin soft, supple and elastic. When the exit of the sebum is blocked, the dead cells that form the blockage become black resulting in the blackheads. If the base of the blocked gland becomes infected, a reddening and inflammation of the spot may develop. Acne is very common among those in puberty because of the changes in hormonal activity during that time. If acne becomes severe and remains untreated, it could leave scars and pockmarks that can be very hard to treat.

The traditional remedies for acne use various herbs in a facial steam. One of these is a mixture of chickweed, elderflower and marigold which are used in equal parts. Thought to be curative also is agrimony which is applied externally. Another cure involves spreading sulphur ointment over the spot. There are a lot of abrasive substances to remove blackheads on sale nowadays but an old trick is applying a watch key over the unwanted blackhead and pressing.

Although a lot of people still squeeze out their blackheads, it is best not to squeeze the infected ones. In fact, this makes it worse. Diet is said to be a factor in the development of acne, although many experts feel that there is no evidence for this. Generally, aperients ere recommended.

Another cure for acne involves mixing two ounces of clover flowers, two ounces of nettle tops and two ounces of comfrey flowers with four pints of boiling water. Simmer this until the mixture is reduced to only two pints. A wineglass of the mixture is to be taken every three hours.

Inflammation of the Adenoids

The fleshy growths at the back of the nose are called adenoids. Where they become inflamed or enlarged, a very common home remedy is to mix up a solution of salt and water and sniff it up the nose. This could prove to be uncomfortable.

Alternatively, a simple solution of warm water and one teaspoonful of salt is gargled. This solution is also used for sore throats.

Anxiety

Everybody feels a little anxious about something sometimes. This is normal, but when the anxiety slowly builds up, this can take a very big toll on the body. There are a lot of herbs with a noted calming effect on the nerves. These herbs are chamomile, balm, cloves, catnip, lavender, hops, lime flowers and passa flora as well as orange blossom, skullcap, thyme, valerian, vervain and wood betony.

Anorexia or Lack of Appetite

The fundamental definition of anorexia is simply the loss of appetite. One of the more common traditional treatments of anorexia is mixing a drink made from a handful of the seeds of caraway and hops. This is especially recommended for the loss of appetite following a serious debilitating illness. Other remedies include angelica, barley, carrots and watercress because they are thought to stimulate the appetite. Herbs that encourage eating and are considered to be appetite stimulants are chamomile, sage, thyme, lavender, tarragon, yarrow, marjoram, hawthorn, myrrh, gentian, wormwood, hops and centaury. Horseradish is also a very good appetite stimulant.

Michael Russell

Your Independent Herbal guide.

Holistic Answers to Acne Questions

People tend to think of their skin as a covering, like they think of their clothes, something that covers their bodies to make them more attractive and protect what lies beneath it.

Actually, our skin is an organ of the body, the largest organ. One of its purposes is to deliver an oily substance called sebum to the surface of the skin via fine hair follicles, through the openings called pores. This is part of our bodies' cleansing process.

The hair, sebum and the cells that line the follicle can form a plug which prevents sebum from reaching the surface; this is the beginning of acne.

The mixture of oil and cells allows bacteria Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) that normally live on the skin to grow in the plugged follicles. These bacteria produce chemicals and enzymes and attract white blood cells that cause inflammation.

When the wall of the plugged follicle breaks down, it spills everything into the nearby skin ? sebum, shed skin cells, and bacteria ? leading to lesions or pimples.

What is acne?

Acne is an imbalance believed by doctors to result from an increase of male sex hormones in both males and females, which causes the sebaceous glands to enlarge and make more sebum. Some research indicates genetics can affect the tendency to develop acne, also using certain drugs or greasy cosmetics.

Acne can occur during puberty, pregnancy, or while starting or stopping birth control pills. Acne is most commonly found in teenagers, usually disappears by the 20's or 30's, but has been known to extend into the 60's in some people.

Acne is usually not a serious health threat, but it can be accompanied by both emotional distress and physical discomfort. Permanent scarring can result in severe cases.

How can acne be treated?

Acne, like all chronic health problems, requires a systemic,wholistic approach for its control, and in some cases cure.

The goals of treatment are to heal existing lesions, stop new lesions from forming, prevent scarring, and minimize the psychological stress and embarrassment caused by this disease. Treatment options include drug treatment, skin treatments, diet, and lifestyle changes. Any and all treatment should be conducted under the supervision of a doctor.

Drug treatment is aimed at reducing several problems that play a part in causing acne:

* abnormal clumping of cells in the follicles

* increased oil production

* bacteria

* inflammation.

Be forewarned, all medications can have side effects. Check with your doctor and pharmacist.

Tea tree oil has been proven effective at killing acne bacteria and healing scars, and it won't clog pores, but many acne sufferers are very sensitive to the oil. So start out with a very mild dose. Add only a drop or two of pure tea tree oil to an ounce of pure aloe vera gel, which is particularly soothing and healing to irritated skin. Increase the amount of tea tree oil as you wish.

Limited research indicates that tea tree oil applied to acne lesions on the skin may work slower and may also cause fewer adverse effects (skin dryness, itching, stinging, or redness) than do other commonly prescribed acne drugs. The speed of action depends on the strength of the tea tree oil application.

Aside from individual experiences of irritation, there are no known side effects from using tea tree oil, but the oil may cause excessive drying of the skin when used with some other drugs that are used to treat acne, such as tretinoin (Retin-A, Renova) or isotretinoin (Accutane).

Dietary and lifestyle changes can help

There's more to this story; more than can be written in a short article. I will briefly touch on research-based information that supports dietary and lifestyle change to limit or help eliminate acne.

Most importantly, your diet will not cause or prevent acne, but if you are predisposed to getting acne, certain eating habits will encourage flareups, other habits will help your body fight the problem.

Firstly, eating refined carbohydrates and sugar leads to a surge in insulin and an insulin-like growth factor called IGF-1. This in turn leads to an excess of male hormones, which encourage the skin to excrete large amounts of sebum.

Secondly, a diet rich in raw foods and antioxidants means that we consume more nutrients and fewer acne aggravating free radicals.

Lifestyle changes eliminate other factors that may trigger or worsen acne outbreaks. These include avoiding oily skin products and grease in the work environment (don't work in a kitchen where foods are deep fried, for example!), pressure from sports equipment and helmets, backpacks, tight collars, or tight sports uniforms; and environmental irritants, such as chemicals, pollution, and high humidity; touching your skin excessively or squeezing blemishes; hard scrubbing of the sking; and avoiding stress.

Kathryn Beach offers extensive information about tea tree oil on her website, Learn About the Tea Tree Oil Phenomenon!. For more detailed information about how you can treat and even cure acne, please visit: A Holistic Cure for Acne

Endurance Training Philosophy

I've always been interested and fascinated with what works and what does not work when it comes to endurance training. I've seen and heard many different philosophies and methods as to what works and how an endurance athlete should train. Of course, many roads lead to Rome and there are without a doubt many different ways to succeed. I would certainly say that the training culture in northern Europe is a bit different maybe then what it is in Southern or Eastern Europe. I will try and sum up what I've learned, observed and heard with regards to the Norwegian method vs. Continental Europe. Endurance training methodology in Norway consists of some key items:

1. As much as possible of the training is done outside, year round. Irrespective of weather conditions. We compete outside, so we train outside. We have access to some of the best natural training terrain in the world and use it well. As a side-benefit, if you are used to training in bad weather, you compete better in bad weather. One of the reasons for this obsession with outdoor training activities is simply that most citizens from a very young age is taught the joy of being outside, enjoying nature.

2. Cross-training. It is generally more accepted that an endurance athlete can improve his performance by using cross-training. In other words, a cyclist can become better by running, hiking and cross country skiing. He does not necessarily only have to ride his bike. This belief also allows us to train outside year round in a country that might not have 100% optimal conditions for cycling in the winter. In southern Europe the general feeling is that a cyclist can only become better by riding his bike. Running or skiing is a waste of time.

3. Long rides at medium intensity vs. shorter rides at high intensity. Traditionally, endurance training at home has been overwhelmingly dominated by lots and lots of long, relatively easy sessions and very few hard, high intensity sessions. In a nut-shell this would make up the yearly training program for cross country skiers, long distance runners and cyclists. It has become very hip recently to discard these long, easy rides and label them as a waste of time. Some scientists have gone as far as to say that this type of training is entirely wrong. Instead, they suggest more hard, threshold sessions and intervals. This they say, regardless of the fact that most successful elite endurance athletes, regardless of sport, never trained this way.

I will defend the traditional method and here is why: For an endurance athlete, about 90-98% of the performance is aerobic. The remaining 2-10% are anaerobic. So, in a 4 hour competition, as much as 3.92 hours would be aerobic and 0.08 hours would be anaerobic. In other words, you can train to improve your performance in the 3.92 hours or you can train to improve your performance in the 0.08 hours. Obviously, the potential for improvement is much greater in the 3.92 hours that are performed aerobically. Not to mention that the 0.08 hours of anaerobic performance is not that trainable / improvable. So, in short - traditional endurance training with about 90% of the total training volume per year focused on aerobic capacity (long rides with low-medium intensity) and the remaining 10% invested in intervals and tempo rides is more beneficial. The long, easy-moderate intensity rides (called langkj?ring in Norwegian) improves certain key physical attributes: increase incellularr mitochondria, improvement of the capillary blood vessel network and an increase in aerobic enzymes. These long rides also improves the body's ability to utilize fat as an energy, leaving the more fast-burning carbohydrate energy for the short bursts of power in a race.

Even with these facts, many modern coaches are not recommending young athletes to focus on these long rides. A simplified way to look at an effective endurance athlete's weekly training program, following traditional endurance training is: Hard, easy, easy, Hard, easy, easy. On a weekly basis it would be Hard, Harder, Hardest, Easy, in regards to volume.

4. Athlete vs. coach / team. I think we have been successful in treating each athlete as an individual and listening to the athlete. Just because you have a team of top, elite performers, does not mean that each one will not have specific individual needs. And those needs may vary from week to week or month to month. One training program will only fit one athlete, you cannot design one program and suggest that everyone follows it. Individual variables such as illness, recovery rates etc will throw that whole system off. Eastern European nations on the other hand have notnecessarilyy believed in this. They have required all athletes on the national team to follow the same training program, regardless of individual variables. This has in effect, lead to eastern European countries falling 10-15 years behind the curve.

A great example is the old Soviet cross country ski team and their training program. Between May and September everyone on the team had to follow this plan: Monday - 35 km rollerski in the morning and 1.5 hour run in the terrain in the afternoon. Tuesday - 2.5 hour run, uphill in the morning and 1.6 hour rollerski in the afternoon. Wednesday - 2.5 hour rollerski in the morning and 1 hour easy run in the afternoon. Thursday -strengtht-training and easy recovery training. Friday - 2.5 hours hard run in the morning and 1.5 hours rollerski in the afternoon. Saturday - 3 hour run or rollerski Sunday - rest with lots of sleep. In addition, they were forced to sleep at certain times. In other words, no consideration for the individual athlete. This program lead to great success for the athletes that fit the program and no success for the individual that needed something different. Many talentedskierss never realized their potential because of this rigidness. I think we have been successful in Norway, due to the concern for the individual.

5. Use of pharmaceuticals. One of the greatstrengthss we have in sports at home is the attitude towards taking any type of drug, legal or not. The use of any drug, pill, drink etc that is not natural is very rare. From bottom to top, we utilize very, very little products that aid athletes. In short, top training consists of running, skiing or biking outside combined with an afternoon nap and a good night sleep for recovery. The diet is a simple, sound composition of wheat bread, dairy products, potatoes, fish, lean meat and lots of vegetables and fruit. This is VERY different on the continent where athletes take all sorts of recovery enhancing products etc. I'm glad I got that attitude with me now, it makes it easier to make the correct choices in modern cycling where team doctors etc are always trying to give you something to speed up recovery etc.

I'm a full-time endurance athlete (cycling), with the 2012 London Olympics as my main goal. I maintain a blog, where I write about my ups and downs in training / racing as I work towards year 2012. http://roadrace1.blogspot.com/

Over the Counter Acne Treatment Products That Work

Over the counter acne treatment products typically include acne or spot treatments, cleansers and washes, moisturizers, lotions, pads and wipes, masks and strips, shaving creams, and toners and astringents.

So how do you know what over the counter acne treatment you should use? Here?s some simple, yet powerful information that most folks unfortunately don?t take the time to find out.

Benzoyl Peroxide the Bacteria Slayer

Benzoyl Peroxide (BP) in over the counter acne treatment products:

-works best for moderate to moderately severe acne,

-deeply penetrates into the skin to kill tough bacteria,

-is best used preventatively,

-dries and exfoliating the skin,

-works faster than prescription antibiotics, and

-doesn?t allow bacteria to build resistance like prescription antibiotics.

However, BP is a very harsh chemical. It causes redness, dryness, and scaling. BP can also lighten fabric colors.

You can find a cheap tube of BP in any drugstore at 2.5% which will work wonders over a few weeks time.

Salicylic Acid ? the Surface Slougher

Salicylic Acid or ?beta hydroxyl acid? (BHA) works best for mild acne and sensitive skin, as a cleanser ingredient to slough surface skin cells, and as an agent that prepares the skin for other acne treatments. It breaks down a protein that holds the skin cells together. Over time, it exfoliates old skin and allows new healthy skin to surface. It loosens whiteheads and blackheads and helps expel them.

Salicylic acid is fairly mild. It does not reach down deep into the skin follicles like benzoyl peroxide. It can take up to 3 months to loosen smaller whiteheads and blackheads.

However salicylic acid works well if you use it over a consistent and long period of time.

Some side effects of salicylic acid include some skin peeling, dryness, and irritation when used at concentrations of 2% or greater. Possible adverse effects include salicylate toxicity, toxic inner ear damage, and hypersensitivity. Also risk of increases in skin sensitivity to sunlight.

Look for an over the counter acne treatment cleanser with concentrations of 2% salicylic acid, in an acid base with a pH of between 3 and 4.

Alpha Hydroxy Acids (AHA)

Alpha Hydroxy Acids work best for all types of skin, as a mild or strong cleanser, and for healing and preventing acne.

AHAs are natural acids which come from fruits, milk sugars, and plants. Glycolic and lactic acids are the most frequently used in over the counter acne treatment products, and are the most well researched AHAs to date.

AHA's gently peel away the uppermost layer of dead skin cells. They make way for the newer skin beneath.

Look for a product with a glycolic acid concentration between 8 and 10% and no other active ingredients. You should see results in the texture of your skin within a few weeks.

Side effects include more susceptibility to sunlight and minor skin irritation or blisters and burns. Fewer AHA products have FDA approval.

Retinol

Retinol is the chemical name for vitamin A ? which is the active ingredient in the prescription drug Retin-A, the favored topical prescription acne treatment.

Retinol works best in high concentrations and when packaged stably. It hasn?t really proven its effectiveness for acne.

Sulfur and Resorcinol

Basically, sulfur kills acne bacteria. Resorcinol helps shed the outer layer of skin, and increases the effect of sulfur. However, experts aren?t entirely sure how it works in combination with sulfur.

Resorcinol alone is not an effective acne treatment. It can be very irritating to some patients. For those who can?t use BP or Retin-A, sulfur may be a good alternative.

The side effects are minor: dryness and unpleasant odour. It?s not recommended for pregnant women unless their doctor prescribes resorcinol. There are no major known adverse effects in resorcinol?s combination with sulfur.

Everyone is different

For maximum effectiveness, find a cleanser containing salicylic acid or glycolic acid, a leave-on benzoyl product, and a moisturizer you wear overtop.

As a general rule of thumb, OTC drugs should work within 6 to 8 weeks. If they don?t work within 10 weeks and even promote breakouts, see a dermatologist.

Now you have enough knowledge to look for effective skin products, as well as how to use them to use them the right way.

Yvette Chau is a freelance writer based in Edmonton, Canada specializing in the area of skincare and acne treatment. Ungoing failed treatments herself before finding a solution for her own skin problems, she offers information and advice to others on http://www.your-best-acne.treatment.com/

Top Eight Tips to Get a Radiant Skin!

Young, fresh, healthy and radiant! Whether you are sixteen or sixty, this is how you want your skin to be. How do you seek to achieve your objectives? Do you propose to get the best skin care products? Or are you aiming for costly medications? Put it on hold for now. You could improve the texture of your skin through natural skin care.

Before going to free tips for skin care beauty?, learn your skin type. The type of your skin could be normal, dry, oily, sensitive or combination. Your friends may insist that people with normal skin are the ?lucky? ones. But, it doesn?t mean that they should absolutely ignore their skin. Remember that natural skin care methods could go a long way in improving your skin. Now, let us go through the following free skin care tips:

Tip #1: Cleanse Your Skin

Do you apply heavy makeup when leaving for work? Then, don?t forget to remove the makeup after you return from the workplace. Your exposure to wind, sun, pollutions and even air conditioning could block the pores of your skin. You don?t have to run to the beautician to clean your skin. Just dip a piece of cotton wool in the milk and wipe your skin. You could also dip the cotton wool in almond oil and clean the skin under your eyes.

Tip #2: Eat Healthy Food

Chocolate, candies, French fries and Pizzas! As delicious as they are, these food items are deemed to be the enemies of your skin. They could cause blemishes and make your skin oily. It is hard to digest the fact, but reduce the intake of these delicacies for the betterment of your skin.

Tip #3: Exercise Regularly

The tasteless water could very well help in improving your complexion. Eight glasses of water along with regular exercise could have a positive impact on your complexion. What kind of exercises? Walking, running, jogging or even engaging in sports could have the desired effect on your skin.

Tip #4: Replace Your Dead Skin Cells

Don?t ignore dead skin cells. Note that you have to exfoliate at least twice a week to replace your dead skin cells. Do you have broken capillaries? In that case, care should be taken before exfoliating.

Tip #5: Reduce Exposure to the Sun

Is it possible to escape the ill effects of hot sun? Exposure to the sun could leave your skin with blotches and premature wrinkles. Do you have to go out between 10: am and 3: pm? In that case, wear sun glasses and wide rimmed hats to prevent direct exposure to the sun.

Tip #6: Use Natural Moisturizer

Is your environment surrounded by pollutants and dust? Then, it would be better for you to use a natural moisturizer. These moisturizers can protect and hydrate your skin. How do you prepare a nourishing mask at home? Blend white cosmetic clay with mashed banana and apply on your face. Wash after a few minutes.

Tip #7: Avoid Excessive Use of Cosmetics

Excessive use of cosmetics could have an adverse effect on your skin and health. People remain unaware that most of the cosmetics contain dangerous chemicals like parabens, thus paving way for cancer. If not cancer, these chemicals could cause serious allergies. So, it is better to minimize the excessive use of cosmetics.

Tip #8: Maintain Healthy Lifestyle

Are you addicted to alcohol and cigarettes? Then, you are sure to get all kinds of skin problems. Wrinkles and blotches may find haven in your skin. Stay away from alcohol and cigarettes if you want healthy skin. Try to stay cool, so as to avoid fatigue and stress.

Taking care of your skin is hardly a difficult process. Healthy lifestyle with proactive skin care could leave the right impact on your skin. Care for your skin and it would never betray you.

skinway.com is a site that offers comprehensive details on various topics including best skin care products, cleansing skin care, free tips for skin care beauty and many more.

Home Remedies From Parsnip

The parsnip has been cultivated in Europe for centuries. It was especially popular before the arrival of the potato and was used as a valuable source of carbohydrate.

Parsnips contain natural sugars which impart a sweet taste to the vegetable. The Elizabethans used parsnips as a sweetmeat with honey and spices as well as serving the root as a vegetable. The carbohydrate in parsnips is stored in the form of natural sugars. This contrasts with the potato where the carbohydrate is 90% starch. Parsnips are considered sweeter than carrots. With almost three quarters of the sugar in parsnips as sucrose, the sugar we extract from sugar cane. By comparison, sucrose accounts for only one third of the sugar in carrots. Sucrose is not at all damaging to health when consumed in its natural form in its parent plant.

Culpeper (1653) writes that 'the garden parsnip nourisheth much and is good and wholesome, but a little windy whereby it is thought to procure bodily lust; but it fatteneth the body if much used. it is good for the stomach and reins (kidneys) and provoketh urine?.

Today we appreciate that the parsnip is not fattening, with a mere 20Kcal per 100g. Compare this to fats and oils at around 900Kcal per 100g.

Kevin Pederson has been managing a number of natural home remedies websites which have information on home based natural cures and remedies by some of the common itmes in house as well as parsnips.

The Healing Arts: 18 Things Healers Learn #10 Choices You Can Live With Guide You

Was it a black and white world, we would be able to stay comfortably within the limits and boundaries of whatever modality or protocol we?re trained in. It doesn?t matter whether it?s medicine or any other profession. Certain ?rules? have been written before we arrived, and we?re expected to follow them.

Yet, no matter how broad or narrow the rules or regulations, there are always situations where what is dictates unusual or even contrary approaches to the accepted pathways. This is not only true in emergency situations; it applies to everything.

In many ways, this is the stuff that innovation and creativity are made of. How often do we come up with something new because everything that we did know simply wasn?t up to the task?

In an environment where the stakes are life and death, however, thinking out of the box is not just an option; it often becomes a necessity. And there are always people standing by ready to tell you how wrong you were to do what you did, no matter what you did. Sadly so, this happens sometimes even after you?ve accomplished a great amount of good.

Anything that disrupts the status quo is often interpreted as a threat. But the reality is, after a while there may be enough people who ?try out? the alternative approach and find that it is viable. In that case, word spreads, others try it and before too long, the previously outcast approach becomes part of the mainstream Next thing you know, what was once renegade has morphed into the status quo.

Most practitioners in the healing arts recognize, after repeated exposure to the unknown, that healing will use anything and anyone at its disposal to effect change. It is always in the process of teaching us how to work with it. In the process, healing illuminates paths to reach it that were formerly in the darkness. Sometimes, those paths fly in the face of the currently accepted.

In high-tension occupations, those called upon to make the most difficult choices cannot help but notice that everything changes. Repeated exposure to the inconsistencies of mores and directives and the limits of arbitrary and time-limited rules and regulations leads one to understand that there are only shades of gray, and they better get used to working with that.

Healers recognize that as agents of change, they are often called upon to make their own judgments, some of which fly in the face of mainstream acceptability.

What that means to healers is, besides needing to be clear on what are the acceptable parameters within which they work, they must also be able to have room to quickly make decisions based on the unique circumstances they are facing.

More often with healers than most, I would suspect, they are called upon to make their own choices in critical situations. That often means taking action based on what they can personally live with, rather than based on what is acceptable, what they can get by with, or what they can get away with.

A part of this learning curve involves getting to accept that every action comes from choice, and every choice carries with it consequences. Breaking it down further, consequences come in three forms; real, imagined, and natural.

If you choose to rob a bank, for example, a real consequence would be getting caught and ending up in jail. An imagined consequence would be you?d get raped while ?inside.? A natural consequence would be the possibility that, by taking the risk, you?d be separated from your wife and kids for a long, long time and run an even higher risk of losing them.

Which of these consequences presents the most vivid picture to work with as you come to make a choice?

None of this matters much when the moment rolls upon you so fiercely that you only have an instant to take action. That?s why a standard operating procedure of being aware of the choices you make, and cultivating the art of making them consciously (while recognizing the potential consequences attached to them), prepares you to act within a crisis situation in a way that both honors the moment and your own value system.

The healer knows these situations will arise. They are inevitable. On one level, there is no way to be prepared. On another level, the more attuned you are to a thought process that recognizes natural consequences, the easier it is to be clear on what consequences you are able to live with as you do your work.

Russ Reina shares over 35 years of experience in the healing arts through his web site http://mauihealingartist.com It is a potent resource for those wishing to deepen their abilities in connection and develop their powers as healers. For a powerful free tool to explore your inner world, please check out his adjunct site http://thestoryofthis.net

(Permission is granted to reprint this article, unedited, provided proper attribution is made and the signature line -- the above resource paragraph -- is kept intact)

Tea Tree Oil and Treatment of Boils

A boil is an inflamed area, usually based in a hair follicle, and can be caused by a physical condition such as diabetes, acne, or severe dermatitis and can also result from low immunity, irritations, an illness, stress, food allergy, poor diet, shaving, plucking hairs or poor hygiene. A boil usually starts as a tender area, becoming hard and swelling, and eventually softening and forming a head. The head is filled with bacteria and the white blood cells fighting the infection (pus). Staphylococcus is the bacteria that is usually found in the pus of a boil.

The bacteria involved are those usually present on healthy skin, so the boil is an indication of low resistance to infection.

It is advised not to lance the boil, because bacteria can spread to nearby skin and create new boils. Apply hot packs for up to 20 minutes at a time, throughout the day, as the heat draws more white blood cells, thereby helping to fight the infection. Do not cover with a bandaid. Wash with tea tree oil soap and apply antiseptic cream containing tea tree oil. A drop or two of tea tree oil may also be applied directly to the boil. Dab it on with a piece of clean cotton, do not rub or otherwise irritate the boil.

Procedure to be followed periodically throughout the day: Dab some tea tree oil onto the boil with a piece of cotton to help bring it to a head, then cover with a piece of gauze. Cover the gauze with a damp washcloth, followed by a dry towel and then apply a heating pad. Leave on a low temperature for about 15 minutes. Change your dressing and reapply the tea tree oil. The oil helps bring the boil to a head while the warm compress helps pull the infection out of the skin; the tea tree oil then acts as an antiseptic and antibiotic on the bacteria in the pus. Be sure to throw away the gauze each time, and wash your hands with tea tree oil soap each time you handle the gauze or touch the boil.

Sometimes a boil?s bacteria can spread to a lymph node that is nearby. If there is a boil on the neck, check the lymph glands for swelling and tenderness. You should visit a doctor if this occurs, also if there is fever or lethargy. It's important to learn to listen to your body and recognize when tea tree oil treatment will be enough, and when you need the help of a doctor.

Kathryn Beach offers extensive information about the natural healing properties of tea tree oil on her website, Learn About the Tea Tree Oil Phenomenon!.

Osteopath Back Pain and Pension Plans

Is an osteopath, chiropractor or doctor best for your back? Which would you go to first? What about neck pain, shoulder pain, knee problems, which health practitioner would you choose to go to first? And why? Osteopathy was the first complementary or alternative health treatment I tried. After much coaxing and persuasion from my colleagues at the time. I used to think that all osteopaths were bad for you, like the medical doctors in my family said. I used to believe them. After all, doctor knows best, right? Well, doctors are only human, and now many years on, I have just interviewed the first osteopath to work with my company, and I liase with doctors on a regular basis. Isn?t it funny how things change?

The first time I went to an osteopath was when I was working in my first real job as a sales rep. I say first real job because it was the first job where I lasted any real length of time. You see, I was so ill, I was making preparations for when I was going to pass away, and that company employed me on a flexible timetable basis. So I was able to be very ill and still keep my job. I had a lung condition that was getting worse every week. And then one day, I was bending down and suddenly my back just went. The pain was incredible. The doctor ordered painkillers and I took twice the recommended dose. I was in agony. Then a client said that I was literally twisted and must do something. I replied that my colleagues were trying o get me to see this osteopath they knew, but I did not want to hurt my back further with someone who was not a real doctor. But the pain just got worse and I looked awful, and I finally relented and rang the osteopath that changed my life.

He took my history, explained that he did four years? rigorous training, and started to work with me on the couch. A few clicks later and the pain had vanished. I jumped, literally, and did a little dance. I was a believer.

I saw the same osteopath for many things afterwards, as anyone with severe breathing difficulties would know all too well. Somehow, getting help for my back and neck pain was the start of my journey of self-help and complementary or alternative therapy. Once I had broken the myth that all that strange stuff was bad for me, I started to look at other options. I was dying and now my biggest worry is that I have no pension as yet! Nice worry.

So I have osteopaths and chiropractors to thank for my improved health today. If you are suffering with back pain, try your local osteopath or chiropractor. It may open up a whole new world of possibilities for you.

My name is Suzanne Zacharia and I am committed to spreading the word about health options. I believe that the more and better options one has, the more choice there is.

A virus caught along with 5 other students at university at the end of 1986, plus medical negligence, meant that I got smokers lung at a relatively young age. In desperation for help with my symptoms and quality of life, I turned to complementary therapy, and this is the 11th year I have outlived one doctor's prognosis.

I am now a complementary therapist, author and trainer specialising in energy therapy. My company is called New Age London, named by my clients, with some carefully-chosen experts in their fields working with me under the New Age London banner. More details via the links below.
http://www.NewAgeLondonTherapies.com
http://www.StopSmokingLondon.com
http://www.EFTLondon.co.uk

Lower Your Cholesterol With Guggul

The Indian herb Guggul, is a standardized extract from the mukul myrrh (Commiphora mukul) tree, which is native to India. Rresearch has shown that by increasing the breakdown of LDL cholesterol in the liver, it can lower LDL cholesterol levels by 25-35%. It can also lower total cholesterol by 14-27%, triglycerides by 22-30%, and increase HDL cholesterol by approximately 20%. Another study found that the steroid guggulsterone, the active agent in the extract, blocks the activity of the farnesoid X receptor (FXR) on cells. FXR helps regulate cholesterol by affecting bile acids, which are produced from cholesterol and released by the liver.

Earlier this year, a study by researchers in the United States found that the herb can also help people with osteoporosis. They suggested it can reduce pain, stiffness, and help people with the condition to walk more easily. The resin or sap of the tree has been used in India and other parts of the east for centuries. Uses include treating rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease, obesity and inflammation.

India officially approved the plant as a lipid lowering drug in the 1980's. Studies indicate that the product should not be taken with blood thinners without the consent of a medical professional. The product is now widely available for use in the States. You should always consult your medical professional before taking herbs or supplements, especially if you have health related issues.

Mike Flowers is editor of http://www.you-and-your-cholesterol.com. Mr. Flowers was diagnosed with high cholesterol levels more than 10 years ago and has been able to keep his levels under control naturally by utilizing the methods on his website.

(MS) Multiple Sclerosis Treatment with Alternative Medicine: Medical Intuition & Energy Healing

Montel Williams called it an insidious disease. Richard Pryor passed away with its complications, and Michael Wellford, when diagnosed, just said I'm NOT having it!

Multiple Sclerosis or MS is a slow progressing disorder and then disease that drains its owners of energy and then life functioning abilities. Multiple Sclerosis symptoms, like a shadow, are always there, even in remission, and ever present in its ultimate progression.

When you receive notification that you need to be tested for multiple sclerosis symptoms, your mind definitely has something to deal with. There are so many what ifs to consider, and an entire new future to contemplate that is mind-boggling. Even the strongest individuals succumb to moments of random horror, selective thought patterns, and then a bone chilling resolve of sorts as to how to handle their diagnosis. When that blood test and MRI scan come back negative for those that are lucky, you are ever grateful for being spared the positive test result.

As an international alternative medical specialist, medical intuitive and intuitive distant energy healer I work with Multiple Sclerosis alternative medicine treatment for clients. Although addressing physical problems is a major concern, first one must address the underlying emotional and mental contributions that direct the body to manifest the disease. If the disorder is not a Karmic journey that the soul has chosen to experience, then I begin with positive mind over matter actions, attitudes and affirmations. In deciding right now, this very minute, to address and make positive free will choices to change your mind's attitude about your multiple sclerosis symptoms immediately starts a healing process.

I have found that in early stage MS mental positive attitude creates a greater immune system response that in turn helps diminish symptoms. It's the old adage of YOUR mind over YOUR matter. Your cells are here to house your life force energy called your Soul. You are the commander of your cells, ie your body, and YOU are the superintendent of your building ie your body, so how you handle your maintenance is all part of the healing journey. Having a can do attitude directs your cellular structure to do just that, assist in healing itself.

My personal multiple sclerosis research has shown that the fatigue suffered by most MS clients can be greatly diminished by mental resolve to get up and get going and to command your cells to do so. Further investigations have illustrated that prayers, affirmations, and talking to and commanding your cells have great beneficial results. Once we have established a solid mental directive to be as physically healed as possible, we now address physical concerns and complications with energy healing.

Energy healing and multiple sclerosis shows great promise. By using directed electromagnetic bio molecular energy healing, we can reframe bio structures to their initial blueprint of health. Neural pathways can be restructured so that those with paralysis can move their legs or arms. Numb extremities can be revived and regenerated to sensation. In several clients' with these complications, after the cellular and neural connections were restored and regenerated, physical therapy was used to restore their muscles that had atrophied due to lack of use over months or years. Other sensations such as tingling can be reversed by regenerating the nerve's mylen sheath. To date, various multiple sclerosis complications can be reversed, and or put into remission or lessened with energy healing.

In the future, energy healing and using mind over your matter biofeedback with your cells, will be another form of multiple sclerosis treatment that will facilitate and create healthy bodies for those experiencing MS.

Feel free to reprint this article in it's entirety.

Contact Information:
Brent Atwater, Alternative & Integrative Medical Specialist
Medical Intuitive, Distance Energy Healing
ATL, GA Phone: 404.242.9022 USA
NC Phone: 910.692.5206 USA

Disclaimer: Brent Atwater is not a medical doctor or associated with any branch of medicine. Brent works in Alternative Medicine. She offers her opinions based on her intuition, and her personal energy healing work, which is not a substitute for medical procedures or treatments. Always consult a physician or trained health care professional concerning any medical problem or condition before undertaking any diet, health related or lifestyle change programs. There are no guarantees with the Energy work.

Website: http://www.brentatwater.com/
Email: mailto:Brent@BrentAtwater.com

Brent Atwater: Medical Intuitive, Energy Healer, alternative medical specialist: Her international Medical Intuitive & Distance Healing has been studied by & or documented at Duke, ARE, & for pets by the NCSU's Veterinary school. ARTIST: An artist (30+), Brent is a pioneer in healing art by scientifically documenting the Healing benefits of Paintings that Heal?. Her art was featured on PBS. At 16, the NC Museum of Art chose her painting for their permanent collection. In 1987 she founded Just Plain Love? Charitable Trust to benefit children & other causes. AUTHOR: Just Plain Love? Children's Healing Books. The books are translated into plays performed in children's healthcare facilities turning illness negatives into positives. Cancer Kids, God's Special Children, & Positive Attitudes, Affirmations, & Actions for Overcoming Your Health Challenges, and Positive Attitudes, Affirmations & Actions to Help Survive Your Cancer Experience. These books are holistic, alternative medicine & alternative healing for your mind Brent attended Wake Forest Law School and is a minister

Acne Skin Care

For a healthy skin, skin care is extremely important and when we talk about acne, trust me acne skin care is even more important. Acne is that condition of skin when the skin has pimples, cysts, nodules, blackheads or whiteheads which can occur on face, chest and back. Acne is said to affect more than eighty percent on teenagers or preteen but this is in majority cases otherwise acne can occur on skin of person belonging to any gender, race or color.

The most important goal of acne skin care should include clearance of acne, prevention of scarring and, morbidity minimization. It is very important that the patient who has acne should be given the education on the acne and its treatment because patient's knowledge is most important for effective acne skin care. It is essential to give away with the myths that consumption of greasy food, potato chips, sugar and chocolates are responsible for the development of acne.

For an effective acne skin care the patient should be strictly advised to cleanse the skin gently using a non-comedogenic moisturizer. The patient should also avoid picking and rubbing the skin and using the apricot scrubs that might have a harsh effect on the skin. Other important preventive measures for acne skin care should include use of proper shaving technique and being consistent with the skin care regimen. Drinking more water can also help skin stay healthy. Evidence states that modification of the testosterone dose; dosing schedule or delivery method helps improve acne symptoms.

Another very important issue is the use of cosmetics. Trust me it is better to eliminate or not eliminate so atleast reduce the use of the cosmetics for proper acne skin care because at times the patients use cosmetics and makeup to hide the acne. Though this is reasonable and makes sense, any kind of topically applied oil-based compound will aggravate acne because the growth of acne is increased due to oil glands and top of it if more oil producing cr?mes are applied than one can understand what the condition of the skin would be.

Specifically, the ingredients to avoid for proper acne skin care are isopropyl myristate, isopropyl esters, oleic acid, stearic acid, petrolatum and lanolin. Cosmetic brands of lower quality will not mention the presence or absence of such compounds on the label and must be avoided. Though alcohol-based cosmetics are not the best choice for acne-prone skin, they are certainly preferable to oil-based one. It is best to use water-based cosmetics which, though not as long-lasting as oleaginous ones, are far more suitable and less harmful to acne.

There are a number of cosmetics available for concealing the acne one doesn't want anyone else to see. They usually come in the form of a regimen that includes a concealing cream, a sheer or opaque foundation and a dusting powder. But I would suggest that before using these products as well the skin should be gently cleansed and then these products must be applied on the acne skin.

Find out more about Acne Skin Care as well as other Health issues by visiting getacnetips.com and gethealthtips.com

? 2006 GetHealthTips.com