August 2nd, 2011 — 9:10am
In a study involving patients with serious heart conditions, University of Michigan Medical School researchers found that just four days at a retreat wherein they were taught inspirational tips for living resulted in a 50 percent reduction in anxiety.
At the spiritual retreat, visitors engaged in meditation, guided imagery, therapeutic music-playing, journal writing and outdoor activities.
"These types of interventions may be of particular interest to patients who do not want to take antidepressants for the depression symptoms that often accompany coronary heart disease and heart attack," said lead author Sara Warber, M.D.
Individuals in the study were diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome, which results in chest pain and heart attack. Often, this can lead these patients with feelings of hopelessness, but the researchers found that a spiritual retreat helped them to regain happiness and feelings of well-being.
The retreat focused on teachings that love, beauty, harmony, unity and peace are attainable through a connection with nature and positive interactions with fellow human beings. Additionally, the attendees were taught nutrition, physical exercise and stress management.
Not only did the four-day intervention have positive results, but authors said that they lasted for several months afterward.
Author and philosopher Ilchi Lee believes that enhancing your mind body spirit connection is key in achieving a good sense of well-being. Additionally, the trailblazer recommends retreats to Sedona, Arizona, a place where the spiritually gifted and enlightened gather to spread their teachings and goals toward a better society.
Results of this study suggest that happiness and wellness could be a matter of making the trip to spend some time in nature, where humanity all began.
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June 29th, 2011 — 8:03am
It is well known that eating an apple a day is supposed to keep a person healthy, but new research suggests that strawberries may be a better option. Scientists at the Salk Institute found that this fruit contains high levels of a nutrient that may support strong metabolic health.
The team tested the effects of the antioxidant fisetin in a group of laboratory mice that were bred to exhibit symptoms of diabetes. While mice fed a fisetin-rich diet still developed diabetes, they were less likely to experience complications of the disorder, which include kidney disease, retinopathy and neuropathy.
"This manuscript describes for the first time a drug that prevents both kidney and brain complications in a type 1 diabetes mouse model," said David Schubert, who led the study.
The findings also support Ilchi Lee's belief that health is a matter of taking responsibility for one's own well-being and taking steps to live a healthy lifestyle. A diet rich in strawberries may help support healthy metabolic function and limit an individual's risk of developing painful and potentially life-threatening health conditions.
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May 25th, 2011 — 3:59am
Ilchi Lee says health is a vital part of anyone's search for fulfillment and satisfaction in life. It is impossible to develop one's self to the fullest spiritually and mentally if they are physically unhealthy.
For this reason, he recommends that individuals pay attention to what they put in their bodies and listen to health advice from experts.
An example of this advice comes from a new study published by the American Heart Association showed that women who consumed more baked and broiled fish had a lower risk of cardiovascular problems compared to those who ate fried fish.
The findings are important because fish consumption has been shown to support heart health. However, the new results make it apparent that the way in which the fish is prepared may make a major difference in its health benefits.
"Not all fish are equal, and how you prepare it really matters," said Donald Lloyd-Jones, one of the lead researchers.
Understanding this difference could be a key factor in living a healthy life and being capable of pursuing positive changes in life.
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May 16th, 2011 — 9:50am
Staying in shape while traveling can be a taxing endeavor. Ilchi Lee teaches that though maintaining one's health may be a challenge, physical wellbeing is an important step in discovering one's inner self. As such, there are a number of ways that travelers can maintain a reasonable health regimen while they travel, yet the key to this process is to keep it simple.
First, travelers should set honest goals when it comes to these mid-journey exercises. Odds are good that you will not be able to complete your regular workout program during your travels, so establishing the most important exercises or perhaps focusing on a particular muscle group can help with planning your trip.
While some hotels will have gyms for their guests, travelers may want to pack a resistance band during their travels. These small, lightweight items allow for a full upper and lower body workout routine without taking up much space in your luggage.
Be sure to make the exercise fun by trying something new. If you are staying near a park, try a run in this new environment, or do some laps in the hotel pool for a nice change of pace.
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May 11th, 2011 — 8:32am
Following diagnosis of a medical problem, patients' first reaction is often to take whatever medications are available to address the issue. However, this is often not necessarily the most prudent treatment course, and more holistic healing practice may offer better results.
For example, a recent study from a group of University of Illinois researchers has shown that a diagnosis of low bone density, which often leads to osteoporosis, may respond better to simple calcium supplements rather than bone-strengthening medications.
The researchers found that individuals who increased their dietary intake of calcium and vitamin D cut their risk of hip fracture significantly. However, the team speculated that doctors are more likely to provide prescription medications instead of recommending increased intake of these nutrients because they believe individuals are unlikely to change their diets.
Given the fact that bone-strengthening medications can disrupt many processes within the body, taking a less invasive approach may be desirable. Ilchi Lee has said that health is a matter of taking positive steps to improve one's physical and mental condition, and holistic approaches may address these issues.
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April 1st, 2011 — 8:24am
When it comes to healthy and active living, a balanced and nutritious diet is key. Ilchi Lee believes that health is as much a physical state as it is a spiritual one – taking personal responsibility for food choices can lead to a better life.
A new study has found that those who choose to eat fish that contain high levels of omega-3 may actually be less prone to developing type 2 diabetes, despite other conditions, such as being overweight
Researchers found that the tribe of Yup'ik Eskimos in Alaska have a much higher concentration of fish in their diet, but the fatty content of this dish also leads to a prevalent obesity rate. However, while being overweight has been linked to type 2 diabetes, this was a rare condition among the Eskimos.
"It appeared that high intakes of omega-3-rich seafood protected Yup'ik Eskimos from some of the harmful effects of obesity," said researcher Zeina Makhoul.
The findings indicate that making a conscious effort to include more fish and omega-3 fatty acids in one's diet can help improve health and may curb diabetes.
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March 30th, 2011 — 4:43am
Ilchi Lee says that health is not only about improving an individual's physical condition. It also involves taking steps to prepare the mind in such as a way that promotes greater balance along the mind-body-spirit connection.
These are some of the reasons why holistic approaches to health have become popular in the last few years. They look at all aspects of a person's life to find the root causes of issues, rather than simply looking to attack the symptoms of the problems.
Karen Rigney, a holistic health coach from Briarcliff Manor, New York, told the Pleasantville Patch that starting with home cooked meals that are prepared by the entire family is one good way to encourage good overall health. This can improve nutrition and promote family bonding. This approach to health can have many benefits.
"The primary benefits of integrated health are longer life, more energy, increased focus [and] clear thinking in both work and school," she told the news source.
Health is about showing respect for one's self, Ilchi Lee says. Holistic approaches may be the best way to accomplish this.
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