Thursday, January 19, 2017

Staying Grounded for Healthy Living

Image Credit: flickr.com; Creative Commons, Commercial Use Allowed

Staying Grounded: The Foundation for Healthy Living 

Do you have a hornets' nest in your head?  Do you live with a cacophony of thoughts clamoring for your attention?  Do you feel like you are living life in a blender?  If this is you, then you are not grounded.  And that means that you are likely not as healthy as you could be.

Here are a few of the {amazing benefits} you can enjoy from being more grounded:  
  • Free radicals are reduced in your body.
  • Inflammation decreases. 
  • Disease processes slow or reverse. 
  • Heart health improves. 
  • Sleep improves. 
  • Wounds and damaged tissues repair faster. 
  • You will lose weight more easily.
  • Personal relationships will improve.
So what is grounding and why is it important?  "Our bodies cannot heal if we are not 'in them'."  Says Chiropractic physician Dr. Jennifer Sweet of Next Level Chiropractic in Prescott AZ.  "When stress levels become too high and we lose the ability to be present and live in the moment, our health and happiness begin to suffer."   Dr. Sweet has found that many of her patients are 'not in their bodies' when they begin a session with her. And until she can correct that problem, none of the other therapies she offers will work for them. 

Dr. Sweet has found that applying {Vetiver oil} to an ungrounded patient's feet before she begins a session helps that person to slow down... to stop thinking about the hornets' nest in their head and focus on health and healing.

And it makes sense.  {Vetiver oil} is distilled from the roots of the chrysopogon zizanioides species, a fragrant grass that grows in tropical regions.  It is widely prized for its ability to relieve anxious feelings, improve sleep, and focus attention deficits in adults and children.  It's sweet, woody, smoky aroma invites the soul to slow down, put down roots, and draw strength and nourishment from the earth and from the moment.

Try this {simple 10 minute meditation} with Vetiver oil.  Apply a drop to your hands. Prop your hands up on a pillow. Inhale slowly and deeply while you {listen to this meditation}. (The meditation you want is #11 "Grounding Meditation".) 

What else can you do to improve your grounded-ness?  
  • Spend time in your bare feet each day making contact with grass, soil, sand, or unsealed concrete. 
  • Receive an AromaTouch™ once a week. It is easy to train someone to perform this vital technique for you. 


Vetiver is a member of the grass family.  Unlike other grasses, however, the root system of Vetiver grows down, which explains why it possesses such grounding properties.  doTERRA International works with native growers in Haiti through their {Co-Impact Sourcing} program to produce  the finest, most purely therapeutic grade Vetiver oil in the world.   

Questions about essential oils?  Let me help!   

Contact me here


Happy Oiling! 
~Juli

Sunday, January 8, 2017

The Sunny Citruses (Lemon Oil)



Images from Flickr Creative Commons: Commercial Use Permitted

The Sunny Citruses (Lemon Oil)

Finishing out the summer with our focus on citrus oils, I thought I would focus on all things lemon in this edition. I use lemon all the time... both IN me and AROUND me!  :)

Cold pressed from the nutrient dense rind of the fruit, lemon oil has earned its reputation as "the cleansing oil".  It basically de-gunks everything in your body and in your surroundings. It is also one of the least expensive oils you can purchase.  I go through one bottle a month. Here are a few of my favorite uses for this bright and beautiful oil: 
  • Drink a few drops in your water to:
    • balance blood pressure
    • encourage fat burning and weight loss
    • cleanse adipose tissue of petrochemicals stored there
    • reduce mucous production
    • relieve minor discomfort associated with too much stomach acid production 
    • cleanse your liver and gall bladder and
    • improve digestion
  • Household uses include: 
    • Run a few drops in your garbage disposer to deodorize 
    • Tap onto a barely damp cloth and deodorize a stainless steel garbage can 
    • De grease a gunky stove top
  • Diffuse to:
    • improve mental focus 
    • lift mood 
    • overcome addiction
In my book, any day we can accomplish any of these things while reducing the toxic load to our bodies is a good day, indeed.  So let's clean up our act by exploring the virtues of lemon essential oil! 



Happy Oiling! 
~Juli 

Questions about essential oils?  Let me help!   

Contact me here




Check out These Recipes to Try!








Exfoliating Face Scrub
1 Tbsp baking soda
3 drops fractionated coconut oil

Mix in palm of hands and scrub. Rinse thoroughly. Do this once a week in the winger months for soft, fresh skin.  Discontinue in summer months, as lemon oil will increase skin sensitivity to sunlight.  







Funky Garbage Disposal Remedy
1 cup baking soda
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar


Add all ingredients to the disposal.  Allow to sit until foaming slows down.  Run the disposal and rinse thoroughly. 



DIY Scouring Cleanser
2 cups borax
1 cup baking soda
1/2 cup citric acid
1/2 cup kosher salt


Combine all ingredients into a large bowl and stir until all is incorporated.Store in a large shaker bottle. To use, dampen surface and sprinkle powder over area you want to clean. Let sit for 15-30 minutes. For an extra cleansing boost, spray distilled vinegar on powder before wiping clean.  (I can usually find citric acid and borax at any health food store.  I get mine at Sprouts.)  



Questions about essential oils?  Let me help!   

Contact me here




Friday, January 6, 2017

The Sunny Citruses (Grapefruit Oil)

Image Credit:  Flickr Creative Commons; commercial use allowed

The Sunny Citruses (Grapefruit Oil)

Oil enthusiast Dr. David Stewart, PhD once described essential oils as "evidence of God's love manifest in molecules"  With no class of oils is this more true than with the wonderfully summery citruses! Cold pressed from the rind of the fruit, citrus oils are the least expensive oils to purchase.  They are extremely versatile and pair especially well with tree and mint oils. All citruses are very high in compounds called limonenes, which are known to possess anti-tumorial properties.  

Citruses also:
  • cleanse lymphatic tissue 
  • relieve water retention
  • cleanse kidneys
  • aid in weight loss
  • remove toxins stored in adipose tissue
  • clarify and tone the skin
  • energize and uplift mood and
  • clarify thought processes (especially when paired with Frankincense oil)

Grapefruit Oil


Grapefruit is a perfect example of an oil that contains most or all of these properties.  It blends well with basil, bergamot, cedarwood, cypress, frankincense,  juniper, lavender, and peppermint oils. It posseses anti-depressant, diuretic, stimulant and cleansing properties that can be very strengthening to your urinary, lymphatic and vascular systems. You can blend it with any of these companion oils in a base of fractionated coconut oil and massage along your lymphatic pathways, beginning on each side of your neck and working toward the inside of your elbows.  Massage legs beginning near the groin and sweep toward the back of the knees. 

Grapefruit oil is a also a great complement to any weight reduction plan. The Department of Nursing of the Wonkwang, Korea Health Science College published an interesting study which concluded that adding grapefruit oil to a massage did, in fact, contribute to weight loss in menopausal women.   And here is something you can try.  Place 7 drops of certified pure therapeutic grade grapefruit oil in a glass bottle with 7-8 cups of water and shake. Drink this before your meals and throughout the day. 

Most citruses (lemon, lime, wild orange, bergamot, and, yes, grapefruit) are available to us year round. They are blended into many of the therapeutic blends distributed through doTERRA International.  These include Citrus Bliss, Motivate, On Guard, Slim and Sassy, AromaTouch Blend, and Elevation just to name a few. 

Happy Oiling! 
~ Juli


Questions about essential oils?  Let me help!   

Contact me here



Recipes You Can Try...




Spearmint Tangerine Beverage                 
1 drop doTERRA Tangerine oil                          
1 drop doTERRA Spearmint oil                         
1 glass of cool, filtered water 





Coconut Lime Fizz
1 can coconut water
1 bottle carbonated water
1-2 drops liquid Stevia




Citrus Coconut Popsicles
1 can full fat coconut milk
1 cup orange juice
1/3 cup agave juice

  • Lubricate each popsicle mold with doTERRA fractionated coconut oil. 
  • Mix all ingredients together, reserving 1/2 of the can of coconut milk.  
  • Fill 2/3 of each popsicle mold, dividing evenly and freeze for 10 minutes.
  • Top off each mold with remaining coconut milk and freeze for 30 minutes longer. 
  • Insert popsicle sticks and freeze until firm.  

Questions about essential oils?  Let me help!   

Contact me here

                
                                                                          

  

Thursday, January 5, 2017

Forest Bathing




What is "Forest Bathing?"

There's nothing like a good summer rain.  And for those of us who live in the desert, thank goodness we have monsoon season to look forward to!  Regardless of where you live, however, darkening skies and cooler temperatures can mean that a fragrant walk in aromatic forests is in YOUR future!  

"Forest Bathing", as it is known in Japan, provides many health benefits.  But what is it, exactly, about the essences of a pine forest that make you feel so good?

Chemically speaking, it has a lot to do with Alpha and Beta pinenes, two therapeutic compounds in the Terpene family. These compounds are plentiful in the essential oils of all coniferous and most citrus species, which is why coniferous and citrus oils often pair well together.

The health benefits of Alpha and Beta pinenes are well known. 

Alpha pinenes (plentiful in lime, lemon and wild orange as well as Clary Sage, frankincense, juniper, lavender, marjoram, pine, rosemary and sandalwood essential oils.) 
  • Promote respiratory health (bronchodilator, expectorant)
  • Aid memory and are... 
    • Anti inflammatory
    • Anti carcinogenic and...
    • Anti infectious (bacterial, fungal, and viral)
Beta pinenes (Found in all "piney" smelling coniferous species):
  • Are a natural serotonin reuptake inhibitor
  • Enhance norepinephrine and dopamine usage in the body 
  • Lift mood
  • Calm anxious feelings 
  • Relax muscles
I discovered "Forest Bathing in a Bottle" when I was first introduced to therapeutic grade essential oils.  My most favorite oil blend, then and now, is Balance, also known as the grounding blend, by doTERRA International Formulated with spruce, frankincense, Ho wood, Blue Tansy flower, and Blue Chamomile flower, this piney blend grounds and soothes me every time.

How about you?  What sorts of health benefits have you enjoyed as a result of a simple walk in the woods?

Let's get out there and enjoy!

--- Juli 


Questions about essential oils?  Let me help!   

Contact me here




A Soothing Aromatic Recipe Just For You!


Combine these oils... rich in Beta pinenes, and prepare to be amazed at how much it utterly unwinds you.  Use to relax muscles before or after exercise or at night right before bed for a deeply rejuvenating sleep. 


* Use 2 drops of each oil when diffusing.  Apply 1 drop of each topically to neck and chest.  Inhale from cupped hands. 

Questions about essential oils?  Let me help!   

Contact me here




Tuesday, January 5, 2016

Which Exercise Treatment is the Best for Back Pain?


pain management and chiropractor in prescott at Wellbridge Health Center

Studies show that exercise can reduce chronic pain, but research suggests that some forms of exercise may be better than others. Wellbridge Health Center and Chiropractic in Prescott brings you these suggestions for effective pain management.

In a recent study researchers compared two exercise treatments in a group of patients with back pain. All patients improved with increased physical activity, however patients who performed core-stabilization exercises improved more compared to patients engaging in conventional exercises. The core-stabilization group experienced greater improvements in movement, pain management, and reduced their disability.

The study concluded that core stabilization is more effective for treating non-specific back pain than conventional exercise.

Not suffering from back pain?

Another study compared different exercise therapies for musculoskeletal pain found that resistance training is more effective.

Lastly, another study on exercise for neck pain, yoga was better than conventional exercises for improving mobility and pain sensitivity.

We hope that these tips will help provide better pain management during your treatment. For more information on any of our pain programs, please contact Wellbridge at 928-710-3979 or visit http://www.WellBridgeHealthCenter.com/chiropractor-in-prescott

More Information:

Friday, November 13, 2015

Pilates: The Forgotten Rehabilitative Tool


Pilates Studio in Prescott at Wellbridge Health CenterLooking for gentle, effective exercise that will improve joint function and range of motion while making you longer and leaner at the same time?  Then you may just find what you are looking for in a Pilates Studio.

Both the Pilates equipment and philosophy were invented by German-born gymnast Joseph Pilates to aid in the rehabilitation of World War I veterans who were not healing from their injuries using conventional means. 

After the war, Mr. Pilates moved his practice to Manhattan where he opened a studio near the proximity of the New York Ballet.  From there the exercise swiftly gained favor with the elite in the dance, operatic, and acting worlds and by 1950 had become a sensation with Hollywood elites like Marilyn Monroe.

In recent years, Pilates has enjoyed a “comeback” among the rehabilitative crowd, with physical therapy/Pilates and Chiropractic/Pilates franchises springing up in some parts of the country.  Film star Kathleen Turner is an avid Pilates enthusiast, claiming that Pilates has kept her out of a wheelchair and helped her fight the debilitating Rhuematoid Arthritis she has suffered with for years.

In addition, Pilates has become popular with men and women of all ages and athletic ability who are looking to improve core strength, functionality and fitness.

The mind, body, spirit connection is greatly important.”  Says Lucille Noggle, classical Pilates instructor in Prescott.  “A fitness program needs to focus on the whole person.  The exercise that helps you achieve correct alignment and posture will also affect how you feel about yourself and how you interface with life.”

Lucille recommends that a novice begins with 8-10 private Pilates sessions in the studio.  In a private session new clients will learn the best exercises and the correct modifications for their bodies to accomodate any existing injury or condition they may have.  In a private session clients have trained eyes watching how they move, detecting any dysfunctional movement and helping inspire them.  Once a person has a little background in Pilates, mat classes and duet equipment classes are very popular and affordable options.  Many elect to do a combination of private equipment and group mat sessions each week to keep the costs down.  

The health benefits specific to Pilates are numerous.  Pilates can: 

  • rid patients of back pain
  • eliminate incontinence
  • improve flexibility
  • enhance post surgical recovery in joint replacement patients
  • reduce stress
  • Reduce the chance of injury for individuals whose balance may be compromised by age or disease.


Pilates does have its own insurance code and some insurance plans will cover it if you obtain an exercise prescription from your doctor or Chiropractor.  Look for a Chiropractor who understands its benefits and discuss it with him or her to determine if Pilates is right for you.

About the Author:
Dr. Jennifer Sweet, Programs Director at Wellbridge Health Center in Prescott, Arizona 
Chiropractic Physician, Dr. Jennifer M. Sweet, sees chiropractic and nutrition patients as well and directs special programs for Fibromyalgia, Chronic Pain Syndromes, and cancer THRIVERSHIP at Wellbridge Health Center in Prescott, AZ.
More Information:
Pilates and Chiropractic Care
Chronic Pain Programs in Prescott 
More Helpful Articles

Wednesday, October 28, 2015

Pilates: A Seldom Used Tool for Rehabilitation


Pilates is now available at Wellbridge Health Center in Prescott, Arizona
Pilates is a unique system of exercise with its own specialized equipment.
Looking for a gentle, effective exercise that will improve joint function and range of motion while making you longer and leaner at the same time?  Then you may just find what you are looking for in a Pilates studio.

The History of Pilates

Both the Pilates equipment and philosophy were invented by German-born gymnast Joseph Pilates to aid in the rehabilitation of World War I veterens who were not healing from their injuries using conventional means.  

After the war, Mr. Pilates moved his practice from Germany to New York City where he opened a studio in close proximity to the New York City Ballet.  From there the exercise swiftly gained favor with the elite of the dance, operatic, and acting crowd and, by 1950, had become a sensation with Hollywood elites like Marilyn Monroe.

Pilates as a powerful rehabilitative tool

Pain Management Programs in Prescott at Wellbridge
Actress and Rheumatoid Arthritis sufferer
Kathleen Turner insists that Pilates "Saved her life". 
In recent years, Pilates has enjoyed a "comeback" among the rehabilitative crowd, with physical therapy/Pilates franchises springing up in some parts of the country.  Film star Kathleen Turner is an avid Pilates enthusiast, claiming that Pilates twice a week has helped her reduce the debilitating symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis that have threatened to cripple her since 1992.

"Pilates, baby!  Twice a week.  Says Ms. Turner. "Pilates saved my life." 

In addition, Pilates has become popular with men and women of all ages and athletic ability who are looking to improve core strength, functionality and fitness.  "The mind, body, spirit connection is greatly important" Says Lucille Noggle, classical Pilates instructor at Wellbridge Health Center in Prescott, AZ.  "A fitness program needs to focus on the whole person.  The exercise that helps you achieve correct alignment and posture will also affect how you feel about yourself and how you interface with life". 

Lucille recommends that a novice begins with 8-10 private Pilates sessions in the studio.  In a private session new clients will learn the best exercises and the correct modifications for their body and any existing dysfunction or injury that they may have.  In a private session they have trained eyes watching how they move, detecting any dysfunctional movement and helping inspire them.  Once individuals have a little background in Pilates, group mat classes or duet equipment classes are popular and affordable options for many.

Pilates and your health: 

Pilates can: 
  • reduce stress
  • speed post surgical healing
  • rid individuals of back pain
  • alleviate symptoms of incontinence
  • improve flexibility and functionality
  • preserve health and integrity of your joints
  • enhance recovery in joint replacement patients
  • reduce the chance for injury for individuals whose balance may be compromised by age or disease. 
The concept and goals of Pilates pair very well with Chiropractic care.  Pilates does have its own insurance code and some insurance plans will cover it if you obtain an exercise prescription from your medical or Chiropractic physician.  When choosing a Chiropractor, look for one who understands the exercise and values it for its unique therapeutic benefits. 

Find a Chiropractor

Find a Pilates Instructor

Wellness Coach in Prescott

About the Author:

Pilates and Pain Management Programs in Prescott at Wellbrige

Juli Dalton is the owner and Patient Care Coordinator of
Wellbridge Health Center, LLC in Prescott, Arizona.