Our Pets and Our Health

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A 2008 survey published by the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) shows that one or more pets live in over 57 percent of U.S. households. While it is clear Americans love our pets, is it also a health benefit to care for them? “Pet ownership is good for your health both physically and psychologically,” says Connecticut psychologist Herbert Nieburg, author of “Pet Loss: A Thoughtful Guide for Adults and Children” (HarperCollins).

When asked why people are so attached to their pets they are likely to say its because of the companionship and unconditional love. This may be why research has identified numerous health benefits experienced by pet owners:

  • reduced stress
  • lower blood pressure
  • for heart attack sufferers, pets increase longevity
  • for Alzheimer’s patients pets can increase appetite
  • relax body tension
  • create purpose
  • provide security
  • create opportunity for exercise
  • increase social interaction with other pet owners
  • provides routine and purposeful care of another
  • prevent loneliness

In addition to this long list of benefits from pet ownership, one of the most important psychological benefits is that our animals cause us to focus our attention outside ourselves rather than being overly self-concerned or self-absorbed. By caring for and loving our pets, we become better people, more responsible and caring when we must commit ourselves to their needs and schedules.

Last year pet owners spent 52 billion dollars on dogs and cat alone with billions more spent on horses, birds and farm pets. Our pet can also making up for the sense of alienation many feel living in high population cities and in the intensely competitive culture we have developed over the past 25 years.

If you are thinking about getting pet, read up on the type of pet you are considering, know what their special wants and needs are, and be sure the care commitment is compatible with your lifestyle and schedule. While pets are wonderful to share our lives with, just like with starting a family they require a big commitment both emotionally and financially.

With all good wishes,
Georgianna
Copyright 2011 G. Donadio

A New Year – A New Start

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“Happy New Year” is a greeting that fills us with anticipation, excitement and hope. The anticipation is for the new beginning we feel as the ball drops and we say good-bye to the past and look forward to the future. Our excitement is for the many possibilities that may lay ahead in the coming year and the hope is for a better 12 months than those that came before.

What are some simple, positive and productive actions we can take in this New Year that will support our optimistic January resolutions?

  • Start with a clean slate – cleaning and organizing your home space is one of the most positive ways to start the New Year. It has been shown in numerous studies that a clean, organized environment provides a sense of relaxation and calm and also helps us to be more productive because we are more organized and this results in a more efficient work or study outcome.
  • Commit to spending less and saving what you don’t spend – by setting a goal of saving a realistic amount of money each month and achieving that goal by spending that much less each month is an empowering and satisfying way to take more control over your finances and reinforce that you can transform your savings/spending patterns without much stress and strain.
  • Eat less processed foods and more living foods – this is not only a healthy resolution but also a cost saving one as well. We as Americans enjoy an abundant lifestyle and have the highest obesity rate in the world to prove it. By focusing on life giving plant based foods, we nourish our bodies and save a lot of money by not buying high priced processed and often non-nourishing “foods”.
  • Identify an organization, charity or cause that you can either provide a small but heartfelt donation or voluteer time to. Participating in meaningful assistance to others is rewarding on many levels and is good for our health as well as our sense of contribution.

Each New Year is an opportunity for a new beginning…and life, it is often said, is a series of new beginnings ~

With all good wishes,
Georgianna

Copyright 2011 G. Donadio All Rights Reserved

Holistic and Organic Holiday Gifts

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There are folks today who prefer to receive green, natural and organic gifts over the more commerial, expensive and sometimes electronically complex ones. My family and friends now expect to receive such gifts and are actually disappointed if I don’t deliver.

In case you have a smiliar group of friends and family, here are some nice presents you can give that are not only green, and healthy but are also not expensive.

Natural gifts to consider giving this season:

  • Home baked natural or sprouted flour breads and cookies – the gluten free variety is so popular that baking a tin of delicious non-allergic cookies or cakes will make you someones favorite Santa.
  • Handmade Quilts – talk about one of the best handmade gifts to receive and a quilt is high on the list. Quilts are so popular that they are used for raffles at fundraisers and bring in huge piles of raffle revenue. Most handmade quilts also sell for hundreds if not thousand of dollars.
  • Live herb plants – wonderful for growing on window sills and to use in cooking. Aloe Vera is a great plant to keep on hand for any kinds of burns or skin irritations. Simply break off a leaf and rub the healing liquid from the leaf on the burn or irritation.
  • Teas, Tea Pots and all thing related to this welcomed and health-filled brew – a wide variety of healing, soothing and delicious herb teas, in beautiful gift baskets can be found in health food and general grocery stores in the produce section.
  • Coffee grinders – this is a truly coveted gift for the coffee lover. Add a pound of organic free trade coffee to make it the perfect gift.
  • Herbal Candles – everyone enjoys the glow and aroma of a herbal or aromomatic candle. They are beautiful, healthy and sensual.
  • Natural facial or massage gift certificate – treat that hard working friend or relative to a full body or facila massge. With so many natural herbs and wraps to choose from they will want to make a day of it.
  • Pedometer – this handy device can let the user know just how far they have walked through the course of their day or exercise period to assist them in staying on top of their fitness.
  • Wellness baskets with nuts, dried fruits, tea, honey, dark chocolates, mustard, spices or salsa, fruits, veggies drinks and anything else you can imagine make beautiful and festive gifts as well. 

Giving the gifts of health can be as fulfilling as receiving them, so think outside the box this season and surprise friends and family with these helpful and healthful presents.

With all good wishes,
Georgianna
Copyright 2010 G. Donadio

Narcissism – is it the New Normal?

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The subject of Narcissism and its current epidemic in our self-celebrated society is getting plenty of press and finding it way into numerous books.  Drs. Jean Twenge and W. Keith Campbell wrote in their book, “The Narcissism Epidemic,”:

“Personality does not exist in isolation.  The increase of narcissism in individuals is, we believe, just an outcome of a massive shift in culture toward a greater focus on self-admiration.  Narcissism has spread through the generations”.

A recent article published in the December 19th Huffing ton Post also deserves reading on the subject, so here it is in its entirety.

Narcissism – the New Normal
The Huffington Post
December 19, 2010
by Judith Acosta, LISW, CHT

The other day a patient sent me an email with a link to a New York Times article that reported that the upcoming revision of the psychiatric diagnostic standards manual, the DSM-V, has removed the narcissistic personality disorder from its roster.

She asked me, “Are they crazy?”

I wrote back, “I think so.” Then, I thought, maybe the lunatics really are running the asylum.

“Removed” in this case appears to mean two things: 1) that the syndrome as they have hitherto described it is not, in their opinions, clear enough to be described as a character pathology; and 2) that it will no longer be an acceptable diagnosis for reimbursement. Insurance companies, hospitals, treatment facilities and protocols will no longer recognize it or use it to direct treatment.

Should that give us hope or terrify us? Does that mean narcissism is slowly going the way of the Dodo, or does it mean that it has become so pervasive that it’s no longer thought of as pathological?

My experience personally and professionally has me leaning in the direction of the latter, that it has become so much a part of our culture, particularly our parenting, that narcissistic traits are considered normal — so much so that if we don’t have a reality show named after us, we use our own phones or video up-links to transmit our private lives to anyone from Alaska to Antarctica who will watch.

Our culture, the media-infused air we breathe, has itself become both a breeding ground and a reflecting pool for narcissists.
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Makes you think about how we all got to be so self-centered, doesn’t it?

With all good wishes,
Georgianna

Religious Service Attendance Strengthens Immune System

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 A study at Duke University Medical Center found that older people who attended religious services at least once a week were about half as likely as those who do not attend services weekly to have elevated levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6).

This measure is a protein that indicates the presence of inflammation in the body. Inflammation has been implicated in most major chronic disease states, including heart disease, cancer, diabetes and Parkinson’s disease. This decreased level of IL-6 translates into a healthier immune system enjoyed by the those with regular attendance at their religious community.

The researchers factored into the study outcomes health conditions experienced by the study subjects. These included depression, chronic illness, and negative life events—all of which the researchers identified as likely to affect immune status.  Even with these conditions, the improvement to the immune system in those who attended services weekly, was evidenced.

These findings identified that religion or participation in a spiritual life community may affect immune function through better coping skills, psychosocial factors, and the mechanisms by which organized religion promotes positive thoughts and behaviors.

There may also be other factors at play as well. Feelings of belonging to a community, shared values, as well as the togetherness of worshiping with others may be at the cause and effect of these findings.

These positive feelings appear to counteract stress and provide a positive effect on the mind/body communication, which has been demonstrated in clinical studies to have a persistent affect on the immune function of individuals with a positive outlook and upbeat attitude as a way of dealing with stressful situations.

This study also raises the inquiry that there may be a factor of loneliness, experienced by older Americans to a larger extend than do younger populations, that may be part of the healing effect of the weekly spiritual community attendance.

With all good wishes,
Georgianna

Copyright 2010 G. Donadio

What Your Sleep Position Says About You

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In a BBC report on research linking certain sleeping positions with health risks, British scientists think the sleeping position of an individual provides clues to the true personality of the sleeper as well as revealing health clues.

Professor Chris Idzikowski, director of the Sleep Assessment and Advisory Service analysed six common sleeping positions and believes they are each is linked to a specific personality types. “We are all aware of our body language when we are awake but this is the first time we have been able to see what our subconscious posture says about us” says Professor Idzikowski.

The sleep study identified that most people are unlikely to change their sleeping position during the night. Only 5% of the study participants reported to sleep in a different position on different evenings. Another interesting reveal of the study was that only one in ten individuals cover themselves completely with a blanket. Most people expose a leg, arm or both feet.

Professor Idzikowski also examined the effect of various sleeping positions on health. Some positions are believed to help aid digestion, while other positions are believed to promote snoring and restlessness.

Here are the six common positions, studied by Professor Idzikowski, that his study participants expressed. The study’s findings also related the positions to personality traits and health implications.

  • Fetus position – A majority (41%) of the study participants, with 200% more female than male, sleep in this curled-up position. The personality appointed to this sleeping position is that the sleeper has a tough exterior,  but are shy and sensitive and warm up quickly.
  • Log position – This study identified that 15% of people sleep in this position. Sleeping on your side with both arms down, says that you are a social, easy-going person who is trusting and possibly gullible.
  • Yearner position– The third most popular position, utilized by 13% of the participants, is the side-lying position with both arms out in front of the body. This position is considered to be open-minded and yet cynical. They can be suspicious and stubborn. This position is called “the yearner” position.
  • Soldier position – 8% of the sleepers in this study lie on their back with arms down and close to the body. This position is considered to be that of people who are reserved, quiet, not fussy and hold themselves and others to a high standard. This position has a higher rate of snoring due to the back position.
  • Free fall position – Only 7% of the sleepers lie on their bellies with arms under or wrapped around a pillow  and their head turned to the side. Considered brash, outgoing, and uncomfortable with criticism.
  • Starfish position – Those who lie on their backs with arms near their head or pillow make up the smallest  style of sleepers, with only 5% utilizing this position. Considered good listeners, helpful, and  uncomfortable being the center of attention. Sleeping in the starfish position are likely to suffer from a poor night’s sleep due to snoring.

With all good wishes for a great night’s sleep,
Georgianna

A Stimulating Look at Energy Drinks

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They are the new retail craze, available everywhere and promising instant  energy to get more done faster. The largest population they are pitched to is the “under 30” group. This includes high school and college students, as well as athletes both school age and professional.

Our over worked culture is moving beyond coffee for its morning wake up and afternoon pick–me-up to the energy drink solution. This popular product comes with it’s own health concerns. Energy drinks contain significant amounts of caffeine and sugar and can include other stimulants such as ephedrine, guarana, and ginseng, which all have been shown to have potential health concerns. Here are some points of consideration you may want to be aware of before gulping down a can or two of the elixir:

  • Energy drinks contain as much caffeine as in a cup of coffee. Consumed quickly as energy drinks are, the caffeine and sugar provide a jolt of energy by stimulating your stress system, but also raise your blood sugar and blood pressure levels, causing your heart to beat faster and work harder.
  • The contents of these energy drinks can produce symptoms that may include anxiety, insomnia, irritability and nausea that can be severe enough to require medical attention or hospitalization.
  • Energy drinks, if taken during exercise, can dehydrate the body and deplete much needed calcium and potassium.
  • Because of the energy provided by the caffeine and sugar in energy drinks, they have become popular as mixers with alcohol. This can lead to an individual not being aware of the level of intoxication, which might allow them to drive under the influence.
  • Bad reactions to energy drinks have been reported to U.S. poison control centers published in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence.
  • In a report of nine cases of adverse reactions to the energy drink Redline, the patients reported nausea and vomiting, high blood pressure, tremors, dizziness and numbness.
  • There is the impression that because these drinks are available over the counter and can be bought in any retail store, they are not a “substance” that we should use carefully.
  • While energy drinks can be part of a balanced lifestyle when consumed sensibly, as with all things related to health and lifestyle, we need to exercise moderation and good judgement to avoid problems that can arise from inappropriate or excessive use.

With all good wishes,
Georgianna

Copyright 2010 G. Donadio

Chefs for Peace Cook Up Holiday Magic

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Chefs for Peace is a Jerusalem based group of 25 chefs  who use food and cooking to demonstrate that living together peacfully is possible for all, no matter what faith or cultural difference they may have.

The group which includes Arabs, Jews, Christian and Muslims work together to prepare meals for celebrations, galas and culinary competitions. Their shared love for food and nourishing others transcends any differences between them and has created a respectful and trusting partnership within the dedicated group.

Their unique cusine reflects their belief in the value of blending various cultures and that sharing a simple meal is an act of peace and community.

Here is their receipe from Delicious Living magazine for Fresh Figs stuffed with Mushrooms and Pecans, which is pictured above. Something healthy and new to serve up for the holidays ~

1 teaspoon butter

1 teaspoon olive oil

1/3 cup minced onion

1/3 cup minced cremini mushrooms

1/3 cup minced toasted pecans

1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom, divided

1/2 teaspoon ground allspice, divided

3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, divided

Pinch of cloves

1/4 cup tamarind paste

1 cup water

2 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar, or to taste

3 tablespoons mascarpone cheese

12-14 fresh figs

1. In a medium sauté pan, heat butter and olive oil. Add onion and mushrooms and sauté until golden and tender, about 10 minutes. Add pecans and half of cardamom, allspice, and cinnamon. Add a pinch of cloves, plus salt to taste. Stir well, cooking until fragrant, about 5 minutes. Transfer to a bowl.

2. Add remaining cardamom, allspice, and cinnamon to pan (without cleaning it), plus tamarind paste, water, and sugar. Blend well with a whisk, and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and continue cooking, stirring often, until sauce becomes smooth and velvety, about 5 minutes. Whisk in mascarpone cheese until smooth and sauce is heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and more sweetener, if desired.

3. Slice top 1/2 inch of figs almost all the way through, but still attached. Use a 1/4-teaspoon measuring spoon to dig out fig flesh; put in a bowl. Add 2 tablespoons fig flesh to mushroom mixture and mix well. Stuff figs with mixture, overfilling slightly. Place stuffed figs in pan with sauce, spooning sauce over them. Bring to a gentle boil; then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes.

PER SERVING (1): 103 cal, 38% fat cal, 5g fat (2g mono, 1g poly, 1g sat), 5mg chol, 1g protein, 16g carb, 3g fiber, 8mg sodium

For more information about the Chefs for Peace:
http://www.corresponsaldepaz.org/en/Chefs-for-Peace-Recipes-for-Israel-Palestine/chefs-for-peace-recipes-for-israel-palestine.html

With all good wishes,
Georgianna

Copyright 2010 G. Donadio

Cold and Flu Season – Medicine Recalls

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Over the past year, millions of cold and flu medicines have been recalled owing to safety problems. These concerns included bottles that were contaminated with bacteria and processing debris, such as small amounts of metal.

Some of the medications involved include varieties of Tylenol, Motrin, Benadryl and Zyrtec. They are not expected to back in the stores again until 2012. The initial recalls were announced by McNeil Consumer Health Care, which is a subsidiary of Johnson and Johnson Company.

This recall may be a perfect time for concerned parents to turn to non-drug alternatives for their children’s as well as their own cold and flu care this season. Popular examples of natural treatments for cold and flu include the use of  Vick’s Vapo-rub on congested lungs and stuffy noses, as well as saline drops in the nose, garlic and mulleinoil for ear infections and hot steamy showers to break up congestion and improve breathing.

According to traditional peditaricians, a child needs to have a 101 degree temperature before the medicine is going to work. A while many doctors agree that these medications do not necessarily help you get better, they also agree that it helps parents to feel as if they are “doing” something to help their child or themselves. Unfortunately, sometimes these drugs can slow down healing rather than help.

The body creates a temperature to destroy the bacteria that is in the body. By allowing a temperature to run its course, you allow your body to naturally heal and also create greater immunity to bacteria and viruses.

The best way to deal with avoiding colds and flu is staying well. The best way to stay well is to practice good health habits.Eating well, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, drinking lots of fluids, reducing stress and, of course, washing your hands regularly before eating are all recommended ways to stay well and avoid the need for over the counter drugs.

With all good wishes,
Georgianna

Copyright 2010 G. Donadio

Have a Stress Free Holiday Season

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The holidays are a special time to pause, give thanks for the richness and blessings of our lives and enjoy time with friends and family. Shopping, party planning, gift wrapping, visiting friends and family can also be hectic, stressful and expensive.

One of the ways to insure a more stress free holiday is to decide what you would like from this year’s experience. There are a number of ways to can approach the festivities that will carry you into the New Year renewed, refreshed and fulfilled rather than stressed-out, exhausted and in debt.

Setting unrealistic expectations for yourself or anticipating a particular outcome from others is a common pitfall. Another common problem is feeling the need to create a perfect celebration, buying the perfect gifts and being sure that you don’t forget anyone on the gift list.

We can avoid many of these stressors by identifying what the most important outcomes we want and also what outcomes do we wish to avoid. Before committing to attend celebrations that could potentially create time  stress, or buy presents that would create money stress, by choosing to limit the number of activities and setting a very specific budget for gift giving can really shift your holiday experience from stressful to joyful.

One great way to experience more cheer for yourself and bring joy to others is by being creative with your gift giving. You can personalize the holidays and avoid spending far more than you might intend by baking, cooking, knitting, crafts, and scrap booking for friends and family are all creative, meaningful and personal ways to let others know how special they are to you. Nothing say love like hand made gifts.

Being sure to keep up with your self-care routine which may include exercise, relaxation, vitamins or whatever activity you do to take care of yourself, is a great way to keep your body producting anti-stress hormones.  These wonderful hormones can assist you to feel healthy, happy and filled with cheer, even during the busiest time of the holiday season!

All the best,
Georgianna

Copyright 2010 G. Donadio