Stick It To Me

Not a fan of needles? Me either. I was one of the kids who would practically pee myself just hearing the other kids ahead of me while they got their shots. When it was my turn, I felt obligated to warn those in the waiting room for what's ahead and I will give it my all. I have since grown up and for the sake of being a parent, I have mastered the art of yelling out loudly in my mind whenever I have to any procedure that includes a needle. Now wouldn't you know that I am looking into trying an ancient Chinese treatment that is known to heal and relieve a variety of medical conditions. From back pain, depression to drug and alcohol withdrawal symptoms, sticking thin needles into specific points on the skin is said to be an amazing pain free therapy.

According to the World Health Organization, acupuncture is an effective treatment for more than thirty-five common illnesses. It helps to treat and relieve the pain for carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis. It is also used for people with rheumatoid arthritis, autoimmune hepatitis, Crohn’s disease, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue, Graves’ disease, multiple sclerosis, Raynaud’s phenomenon, scleroderma and Systemic lupus erythematosus. Furthermore, it is used with athletes for sport related injuries and also helps those who suffer from lower back pain, joint pain, etc. The list goes on and on. Here's a video that gives you more insight to the benefits of acupuncture. Have you ever tried acupuncture? If not, would you consider it?

Distraction - Fatal Outcomes (Parents/Caregivers)

Can it be that you have so much on your mind that you are not aware of your surroundings? Are you in a hurry? Are you overwhelmed with the responsibilities of life? Are you running late? Do you have something to do and you are focused on your task? Are you wondering when these questions will end or what's the point? Well, it's about parents leaving their children in cars while going off to run errands in stores, some have even gone to work.

It is very important to be present and mindful of your duty as a parent. It is never okay to leave a child in a car even if you are running into a store to pick up something quick. Your single/simple item has nothing to do with anyone else who may be on the line waiting to check out. Being a parent is a huge responsibility which will come with many challenges and the priorities of life shifts into a different mode. It's no longer just about you.

Tomorrow is the first day of summer and the heat is already on. In fact, this past week there were two deaths related to parents forgetting their child in the car. While they spent their day at work, the heat was stifling the life out of the children. Needless to say, when the parent returned to the car and realize the error, the rest is indescribable.

Stress Less - Your Health & Wellness Depends On You!!!

"I am so stressed out!"
"You're stressing me"

Being stressed goes beyond the term of feeling a bit overwhelmed. Stress is universal and it affects everyone at different ages and stages of life. Death, relationships, health, work, debt and family issues contributes to the stresses of our daily lives. However, while some may be able to handle stress, others become consumed with the problems they face and are unable to get through the moment enduring the stress for a long period of time. What is most important to understand - stress compromises our health and wellness.

Stress - Working In This Economy

The media has primarily focused on those who have lost their jobs as they are a part of the community who are in a place of uncertainty. They are worried about their ability to pay their mortgage, rent, car notes, credit card bills, utilities, food and other family/personal obligations which will only add to the state of the economy. Things are not looking good. There is turmoil in the banking systems, Wall Street, Investment Firms, the major companies and organizations are all taking a big hit. As a result, there is a lack of confidence that has now spread to even those who are currently employed.

Employers are faced with the challenges of laying off their employees in order to thrive in this economy. The employees that remain are worried that they may be next to lose their jobs as they see the layoffs as a transition – until the next batch of pink slips are handed out. The concerns are such that they become overwhelmed with thoughts of submitting their resumes to other companies knowing that it is a tough field of job seekers out there. Although they are grateful to still be among the employed, they wonder how soon it will be before they become a part of the unemployed segment.

Many will find that their stress affects the following areas:

Lack of sleep
Loss of appetite
Inability to focus
Paranoia constantly worried or anxious


However, stress can play a major role in your health and wellness. Stress&You

Employers are focused on thriving, making it through the tough economic period and they too are concerned. Even though there may be reports of government related interventions that are targeted to boost the economy, or Wall Street experiences a good day in the market, there is a sense of concern that lingers in this uncertain period. In order for businesses to make it through this period, they should not only pay attention to the numbers on their books but also take the appropriate measures to create a sense of awareness to the concerns of their employees. Consider a workshop or seminar that will address these concerns. It will definitely boost the confidence in work performance which may help in keeping grounded through the turbulence.

Stress & You!

Let's take a moment to acknowledge the reality of stress and how it affects our daily lives. The levels of stress are increased at certain points in our lives and with the state of the economy, our stress levels have increased substantially.
Under normal circumstances, stress can be overwhelming. However, it is important to know that has been linked to various illnesses and diseases.

Your body is on alert at every living moment of your life. Your senses are heightened and it sends messages to the brain about the environment. It knows how you react to the sounds, scents, feel, things you see, and taste. Would you believe that stress and disease can actually change the shape of our blood cells? Yes, it can. In some cases, stressed cells have become distorted in shape. The effects of stress can destroy your cells as a result it weakens your body.

Take note when your cells die and they are not restored, you become a candidate for various infections and illnesses that are stress related. There are many illnesses and diseases that are stress related a few of them are:

1. Rheumatoid arthritis
2. Ulcers
3. Insomnia
4. Stroke
5. Heart Attacks
6. High Blood Pressure
7. Migraine Headaches


In order to deal with the stress, it is important to take the time to use the various resources that are available. How about going to the gym or getting in some form of exercise? It doesn't have to be intense - a light work out will do wonders.
On the other hand, some people pray, while others meditate. Some seek medical or therapeutic intervention seeing a psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker or even going to the spa. Whether you go to your spiritual leader or adviser, family or best friend, it's best to find a way to deal with the stress.

It may seem that this is easier said than done but it is very important that you find a way to alleviate stress. It's for the good of your health.