By Sharon Caren

Lip Service From Water Departments

It’s been a year since I last featured Citizens Concerned About Chloramine.This is an ongoing issue that needs our attention. Here’s a letter I just received from Linda Corwin, VP of CCAC.

Dear Sharon, Thank you for your continuing research into common household and health care products and reporting what “FDA approved” chemicals are in them. It’s nice to know there are natural, healthy alternatives so we can make better choices.

On the chloramine front, I appreciate all of you who have contacted Sharon to express your feelings about chloramine. Citizens Concerned About Chloramine (CCAC) is continuing to contact scientists about the issue, and the scientists are willing to set up testing protocols. However, there seems to be no Federal or State money to pay for the testing. In the mean time, we continue to hear from more and more people who are about to be subjected to chloramine.

Water providers are getting very good at keeping their plant’s chloramine conversion under the radar until about two to four weeks before the actual start of chloramine use. Then, of course, it takes time for people to find our website. By the time we are contacted, the decision has been made, the permits have been issued, the facilities have been built, and there is no way to turn back.

I just ran into that very situation in a small community in the East Bay. After a concerned citizen showed some information from our website to the water board, they postponed the use of chloramine until they could get more information. They allotted ten minutes on their agenda for a presentation.

I attended their meeting on August 11th and in ten minutes, did my best to tell them what a Pandora’s Box they were about to open. I then shared several alternatives they might be able to use. The board members were receptive to my information. But, alas, the General Manager said he only had two weeks before he had to start the chloramine. CCAC will be monitoring the situation and will continue to provide the board with information in an effort to help them realize there is an alternative that they can afford.

State Health Departments seem to be mandating the use of chloramine without letting these water boards know there are alternatives, a disheartening trend I hear over and over. The newest distress call we received is from the State of Alaska.

Please contact your legislators, both local and state, to ask them to put a moratorium on the conversion of any more water systems to chloramine until the proper health studies are done.

If you are interested in going to CCAC meeting in San Francisco, contact me (phone or email below). You’ll learn more about what’s happening with our water systems today and the health issues being reported since the usage of the chloramine additive. I’m happy to get a meeting started in your area.

Thank you for your continued support, Linda Corwin (650) 355-6447 lindacor@earthlink.net Find much more information at: http://www.chloramine.org/

I want to thank Linda for her dedication and updates on this water situation. Many of us are discouraged. Let’s all join together, contact the legislators to bring about change.

Here’s a blurb from last year’s article on chloramine:

Since 2004, when the San Francisco Public Utilities Commission (SFPUC) unilaterally decided to put ammonia in our drinking water to form chloramine, people have been experiencing a variety of health problems.

Many people stopped drinking tap water after the change simply because it tasted so awful. Others developed itchy or rashy skin, sore, bloated stomachs, acid reflux, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) – like symptoms or varying levels of respiratory distress. Many of these people were able to connect the chloraminated water with their symptoms when they used non-chloraminated water while on vacation. They saw their symptoms disappear, then return when they came home and resumed using the chloraminated water.

To read my previous article on chloramine, go to: westsideobserver.com click on Sharon The Health and scroll down to Sept. 2009

I’d like to hear your comments. Please email me at caren@westsideobserver.com or call 650.359.6579. To find natural and healthy alternatives visit: www.sharoncaren.com

Sept. 2010

BURNS, BUGS, AND BASICS

By Sharon Caren

Now that summertime is official, here are some great tips to make your activities and vacation trips more enjoyable. Below are suggestions for healthy and all natural products you won’t want to be without (for emergencies) to carry along in your first aid kit.

Fun in the Sun

The existence of nearly all life on earth is fueled by light from the sun. A recent study indicates that more exposure to sunshine early in a person’s life relates to less risk from multiple sclerosis (MS) later in life. New research is being done showing that vitamin D from the sun may have positive effects on cancer patients. On the other hand, excessive sunlight exposure has been linked to all types of skin cancer caused by the ultraviolet part of radiation from sunlight. Don’t be fooled by the fog either. UV rays can penetrate cloud cover!

Eye Protection Not all sunglasses are created equal. In the past, I’ve purchased expensive ones that I’ve lost or broken and turned to the less costly ones with stickers of UV protection. Unfortunately, cheap sunglasses are unlikely to provide true protection. We’ll probably have to spend about $100.00 on a pair of sunglasses to cover the full range of protection needed. Wearing a brimmed hat or visor is also a big help.

An article in Time.com points out that wearing cheap sunglasses can actually do more harm to your eyes than if you were forced to squint. When we squint, our pupils constrict to tiny dots that limit the amount of light getting in. However, when wearing sunglasses, our eyes feel as if they are in a darkened room and the pupils dilate to let in more light. If you are wearing cheap sunglasses, then much more harmful light may reach your eyes.

That additional exposure to UVA and UVB rays may increase the risk for cataracts, macular degeneration and even development of ocular melanoma—a very rare type of cancer.
Read more:

The suggested products below are treatments I’ve researched and used personally. They do not contain harmful chemicals.

Sun Screens Unrefined Shea Butter, natural SPF of 6.

All Natural Sunscreen SPF 15, 30, or 50 – go to http://shop.mercola.com

Be Physical

It’s time to get out and enjoy your favorite activities like hiking, biking, and swimming. If you haven’t been moving your body much this year, the muscles will feel it. Most importantly, stretching is in order before and after. If you’ll only stretch once, do it after the activity. As a Licensed Reposturing Trainer, I teach personalized stretch routines to keep you flexible and out of pain from injury. http://www.sharoncaren.com then click “personal posture plan” for more information.

If you feel pain from sore muscles, try these on the affected area:

Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils:

Deep Relief - roll on

Pan Away

Peppermint

Wintergreen

Camping, Cooking, Cutting, Cleaning

When vacationing away and out in nature this summer, you’ll want to have items that are easy to carry in your pocket and are extremely effective if the need arises.

For Sunburn relief LavaDerm Cooling Mist will relieve stressed skin. This is a blend of gentle skin-soothing ingredients; lavender essential oil and aloe vera. Spray directly onto the affected area and repeat every 10-15 minutes until desired relief is achieved. Also use the Essential Oil of Lavender.

Bug Repellant, Bug Bites, Bee Stings Purification Oil Blend keeps critters away and neutralizes poison from bites or stings to alleviate pain and swelling. You can also use Oil of Lavender or Peppermint.

Poison Oak Oil of Peppermint helps to dry up the rash quickly and stops itching.

Cleaning and drinking water Oil of Lemon disinfects and deeply cleans cooking utensils and purifies drinking water. Oil of Peppermint is wonderful. Just add a drop in drinking water and this will bring down the body temperature if one is over come by heat exhaustion or fever.

Antiseptic, Antibacterial, Antifungal OilBlend of Thieves put on topically, under tongue, or diffuse. For added protection use Thieves Waterless Hand Purifier, Thieves Wipes, Thieves Throat Lozenges.

Cuts, scrapes, and bleeding Oil of Helichrysum helps to coagulate the blood when poured on an open wound and expedites healing.

Be proactive and beef up your first aid kit before an emergency occurs not only just for summer but all year long. You’ll sleep better at night knowing you have some alternatives. I’m sharing all I’ve learned and what has worked for my family and me. As an educator of Essential Oils, I’m passing along these ancient healing techniques using the life-blood of plants.

In ancient Egypt, the Pharaohs used oils to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual healing. So, the use of oils for healing is very old. What’s new is the application of all we know about the beneficial effects of plant substances to create modern-day oils. These oils are great for people who are searching for an alternative to prescription drugs and their awful side effects. http://www.youngliving.com/sharoncaren

Always consult your doctor. I’m not a doctor and I don’t prescribe or diagnose.

Please contact me with comments, questions or information you’d like to share on health and wellness at sharoncaren@comcast.net Also, visit: www.sharoncaren.com

July 2010

Peaceful Touch Massage Program

By Sharon Caren

I had the pleasure of meeting Pam O’Dea in 1997 (a gifted massage therapist) who lives and works in San Francisco. She received extensive training in Canada and graduated in 1991 from a 2200 hour program. Canadian massage requirements are more comprehensive than the U.S.

Pam had a dream 8 years ago of teaching children to massage one another. Given her persistence and determination, that dream became reality. Given today’s challenging times, I love sharing this great news about building strong bonds with the children of the community

After much disappointment in failing to get this program into public schools, she had to think outside the box and get creative. Pam did much research and actually came in contact with Solveig Berggren, a Swedish massage therapist, who was instrumental in the development of massage programs for children in Sweden and the British Isles. Solveig’s dream was to bring that model to America, but was unaware of the decree of “No Touching” the teachers in the U.S. must abide by.

Many teachers express sadness in having to restrain from giving a child a hug if they fall and are in need of comforting, or even a congratulatory squeeze. Unfortunately, the cases of inappropriate touch or abuse in the system caused a backlash of reforms that deprive children of healthy, nurturing touch.

In Sweden, students K through High School take a half hour break each morning to give and receive massage. The children, fully clothed, lean forward on their desk to receive back, neck, head, and arm massage. Teachers notice these children are calmer, more focused, empathetic and compassionate. They are less angry, aggressive, get along and care about fellow students.

International research done by The Touch Research Institute in Florida headed by Tiffany Fields, discovered that certain countries are high-touch, such as France, Greece, Italy and others are low-touch, including the US, Britain, and Australia. They noted a direct correlation of higher depression, abuse, and suicide rates with low-touch countries. With the children, clearly the more social nurturing touch, the better adjusted the child. Children who do not receive sufficient touch as babies experience “failure to thrive” and fail to develop healthy interactive social behaviors.

Since the public school system was out of the question, Pam found another avenue through friends in which to create her platform. In spring of 2009, the first MASSAGE FOR PEACE PROGRAM was launched at The Thrive House for Youth. It’s a small community based home providing opportunities to learn life skills for under-served urban youth in The Fillmore. Classes are about 6 to 12 students, ranging from 5 to 15 years and a melting pot of ethnic backgrounds. There have been 7 massage training classes to date.

Here’s some feedback from the classes; Children are using what they learned to massage family members at home. They’re feeling more confident, relaxed, peaceful and modeling this behavior to their piers. They are also asking about and considering career possibilities in massage and bodywork. These kids are excited.

Thank you Pam, you are an angel…and to quote her, “One by one we will see a large wave of people who are becoming the change we wish to see in the world.”

To find out how you might help out with this program, contact Pam O’Dea via email:

pamazon@earthlink.net and visit www.pamodea.com

Please contact me with comments, questions or information you’d like to share on health and wellness at sharoncaren@comcast.net Also, visit: www.sharoncaren.com

June 2010

SFPMG: Specialist in Natural Medicine

By Sharon Caren

While I was in Minneapolis last year for a natural health convention, I met Jeffrey David and Dr. Joel Lopez, who belong to the San Francisco Preventive Medical Group right here in our beautiful neighborhood at 345 West Portal Avenue! Last Friday, they invited me to lunch at the Clay Oven Indian Restaurant, 385 West Portal (loved it - great buffet). After, I received a personal tour of the clinic.

Integrative medicine has been at the heart of this medical clinic for more than 30 years. This makes them the first in the city. To receive the best clinical benefits, SFPMG uses effective and safe alternative medicine for a comprehensive approach to blending natural and conventional treatments, the best of both worlds. They provide an array of services in both Medical Practice and Natural Medicines. Check out their website for lists of these practices. You’ll find it very extensive. I’m impressed. www.sfpmg.com or phone 415.566.1000.

Jeffrey David is the CMT you’ll find there. He’s devoted 15 years to learning the philosophies and practices of holistic health care. He’s a great guy and so dedicated to each of his clients. Jeffrey has many certifications: First Line Therapy Lifestyle Educator, Licensed Massage Therapist and Advanced Bodyworker. He’s a Certified Biofeedback Provider and has also created his own Ulan Therapy. This is a highly evolved whole body balancing bodywork technique that utilizes the power of therapeutic grade essential oils in conjunction with advanced bodywork and energetic balancing techniques. Find out more by visiting

www.InfiniteWellnessWorldwide.com or phone 415.513.9311.

Joel Lopez, MD, is one of six doctors on staff. He specializes in Nutrition, Supplementation, and has an Age Management/Anti-Aging practice as well. He uses functional testing to see if a person has nutrient deficiencies (no guess work) and has a great understanding of Hormone Replacement using Bio-identicals. He’s full of knowledge and will make you feel very comfortable answering all your questions and health concerns. You’re in good hands with Dr. Lopez. Please visit www.drjlopez.com or phone 415.377.4743.

I highly recommend you go by and check out this unique clinic for yourself. It’s Local!

If you have health and well-being questions you’d like answered, please call 650.359.6579 or email sharoncaren@comcast.net. I’d like to promote a question and answer forum here in the column. Please write or call in with your concerns and/or questions. Let’s interact personally. I want to know what interests you.

To find out more information on my natural healing services, I invite you to visit www.sharoncaren.com.

May 2010

What is Naturopathic Medicine?

By Sharon Caren

It’s a distinct primary health care system that combines traditional healing wisdom with modern scientific research to offer a holistic, safe and gentle approach to health care. One of the main goals of Naturopathic medical care is to offer treatments with minimal side effects that guide the body on its healing path while avoiding suppression, long term side effects or discomfort.

Sound good so far? I’m excited to let you know about Sarah Rothman, ND, who just opened her practice in Pacifica. I had no idea what to expect when I made my appointment. I’ve now been working with Dr. Rothman the past couple of months using Bio-Identical Hormone Therapy. I’ll tell you from personal experience, you’ll find a doctor totally committed to your wellness.

Naturopathic doctors are thoroughly trained primary care practitioners who are committed to optimal patient care and individualized treatment. They are doctors that listen, and take extra time to help guide you towards optimal health. They hold enormous value in educating and sharing knowledge with you so that you understand your body’s processes and all of the diagnoses and treatments you are given. Through teaching, they encourage you to take responsibility for your health.

One of the beauties of Naturopathic medicine is that ND’s are trained in a wide variety of therapies and will work with you to decide which ones best suit your needs. Types of treatments used include:

• Clinical Nutrition - Naturopathic doctors emphasize the value of food as medicine. Assessment of nutrient absorption, utilization and deficiencies are available for each patient. Digestive disturbances such as reflux, constipation, diarrhea and food sensitivities are areas of expertise. ND’s provide dietary education, prescriptions and doses on vitamins, minerals and other food based supplements.

• Botanical Medicine - The medicinal value of plants has been known since ancient times, and in fact many of today’s most commonly used pharmaceuticals are derived from traditional medicinal herbs. ND’s use botanical medicines in many forms for a wide array of health concerns. Safety of herbs is often overlooked and ND’s will teach you about dosing and interactions of botanical medicines with pharmaceuticals to ensure safety and efficacy. Herbal medicines are prescribed as teas, tinctures, poultices, capsules, powders, steams, and topical applications to help heal disease and promote optimal health.

• Bio-identical Hormone Therapy - Naturopathic Doctors assess hormonal balance for menopausal concerns, menstrual concerns, fertility, libido, thyroid health, adrenal health and many other endocrine disturbances. They offer both serum and salivary hormone testing that they send to reputable labs. There are many dietary modifications, food based supplements and herbal medicines that can have a profound effect on hormonal health. Sometimes, bio-identical hormone therapy is warranted. These bio-identical hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, DHEA, testosterone, cortisol and thyroid hormones are derived and modified from plants to have identical structures to the body’s own hormones. They have fewer side effects and are much more gentle than synthetic hormone replacement therapy.

• Homeopathy - Involves energetic medicines that stimulate the body’s own ability to heal itself. With homeopathy, ND’s address the whole person and the root cause of imbalances. The emphasis is placed on how you experience illness. It is a great option for children, pregnancy and acute or chronic disease. It is extremely gentle and safe and there are no drug interactions or side effects.

• Biotherapeutic Drainage - Offers a subtle, gentle way to detoxify the organ systems of the body. It’s a therapy based on specific organ systems, detoxification pathways and elimination processes.

• Lifestyle Counseling and Education – Each appointment allows enough time to gather information about all aspects of health acknowledging psychological wellbeing. They emphasize the importance of addressing psychological, emotional and spiritual health as part of a holistic approach to health care. With most individuals, they do lifestyle counseling around stress, sleep habits, hydrotherapy, diet, relationship and family concerns, and exercise.

Dr. Sarah Anne Rothman is a naturopathic doctor who recently opened Pacifica Naturopathic Medicine, a clinic that serves people in the Coastside community and the San Francisco Bay Area. She holds great value in preventative medicine, offering tools to help encourage optimal wellness. Dr. Rothman treats a wide variety of health conditions and offers Naturopathic care for every age, from pediatrics to geriatrics. She holds a strong interest in women’s health and focuses on hormonal balance, fertility, menopause, thyroid health, healthy aging, healthy menstrual cycles, weight management and osteoporosis. She is a certified WTS Physician with extra training in thyroid and hormonal health. She also treats a wide array of digestive troubles, food and environmental allergies, cardiovascular and metabolic disease, skin disturbances and behavioral issues. 

She also offers specific group and individual programs for smoking cessation, weight loss and detoxification. She’ll work with your other health care practitioners to provide the best care possible.

A wide spectrum of services are available through Pacifica Naturopathic Medicine such as food and environmental sensitivity testing, heavy metal toxicity testing, salivary hormone panels, cardiovascular and metabolic screening, digestive analysis and screening panels, organic acid testing, nutrient status and more. Dr. Rothman uses Naturopathic modalities as mentioned above including Detoxification, Hydrotherapy, and Naturopathic hands on therapies to help you reach optimum health. Dr. Rothman will work to identify the underlying cause of disease rather than suppressing symptoms. By addressing the roots of illness, the benefits of treatment are long lasting and sustainable.

Call: Dr. Sarah Anne Rothman, ND, BFA, PTS, FIS Phone: 650-380-0089 Email: info@naturopath.com
Web: www.pacificnaturopath.com

Call me 650.359.6579 with any questions you may have or emailsharon-caren@comcast.net Happy Spring!

April 2010

Osteopathy: The Best Kept Secret

By Sharon Caren

I began my Reposturing Bodywork career in 1997 and started working with clients aiding them through many different disease processes. One of my very first clients told me about her Osteopath who treated her ailments through touch. I was fascinated. When I asked how I could get into see him, she mentioned he wasn’t taking new patients.

In 2006, I was explaining to a new client by using the Reposturing technique to restore the body’s natural balance, pain and discomfort goes away. She asked me if I knew Dr. Melvin Friedman, her Osteopath. I called that day and waited 9 months for my first appointment. I found our basic principles are very similar and complimentary. I actually went to Dr. Friedman to learn about Osteopathy never dreaming what a wonderful effect the treatment would have on my life.

Osteopathic Principles focus on the natural motion within the body’s structure and its relationship to function. The knowledge and treatment considers the musculoskeletal system to be an extremely important but often neglected aspect of total health. Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine (DO.s) are fully trained physicians licensed to practice the entire scope of medicine and surgery plus additional education in applied practice as osteopathic manipulation treatment.

History In 1874, Andrew Taylor Still MD, DO discovered the significance of living anatomy in health and disease. He proved he could restore health by treating the body with his hands naming his innovative approach Osteopathy. He envisioned a totally new medical system that acknowledges the relationship of the body, mind, emotions and spirit and offers a profound contribution to the practice of medicine.

Why Choose Osteopathy Many people are looking for a more natural approach to wellness without chemical drugs or surgery. Osteopathic physicians offer a variety of non-invasive healing treatments not available from conventional doctors but can prescribe drugs if needed. It’s the best of both worlds. Long before it was fashionable, DO’s advised patients the “best drugs” are contained within the body itself. There are many DO’s practicing conventional western medicine, so you’ll need to find out specifically if they are a member of the Cranial Academy.

Some Commonly Treated Problems Down Syndrome, bedwetting, ADD/ADHD, Autism, anxiety, depression, head trauma, whiplash, arthritis, Fibromyalgia, Scoliosis, postural imbalances, just to name a few…

When I went to see Dr. Friedman in 2006, I didn’t go for a specific issue. I just wanted to learn about what he did. We spent a lot of time together while he gathered information and took notes looking for cause and effect. He focused on trauma I suffered in 1977 due to a car accident and a broken neck. He zeroed in asking many questions I hadn’t thought about in years and did a structural evaluation before starting gentle treatment through touch. If my body needed an adjustment, he’d do those with more force to get a proper alignment. I felt my body change with a deep sense of relaxation. We worked over time to restore the natural mobility back to my neck that I was told was not possible due to the injury. It’s wonderful being 60 and feeling better than I did at 30 and 40!

About Dr. Melvin Friedman - He graduated from Ohio University of Osteopathic Medicine in 1983. He started out with a Family Practice in Ohio until 1987 when he then moved to California and began his private practice in Osteopathic Manual Medicine in Burlingame. Currently, Dr. Friedman is the President of the Cranial Academy. He’s not only a brilliant Doctor but a very interesting and wonderful man. If you call today, the wait is over a year to get an appointment. However, he has colleagues in San Francisco and is happy to refer you.

Call his office 650.259.0603 and talk to Amy. She’ll give you names and numbers. Believe me, you won’t be sorry you did!

What I learned – Osteopathy is a much needed practice and along with Reposturing Dynamics there’s a great marriage with the focus of Reposturing doing the muscle work to help facilitate flexibility. Dr. Friedman commented this made his work with me easier. If you’d like more information, please call 650.359.6579 or go to www.sharoncaren.com and caren@westsideobserver.com

Happy Health and Vitality!

Feedback: caren@westsideobserver.com

March 2010

Small changes in your diet make a big difference

Healthy Eating, Healthy Heart

By Sharon Caren

My Valentine gift to you and your loved ones: Tips for a healthy heart. The American Heart Association is dedicated to reducing deaths caused by cardiovascular disease by embracing prevention. Their motto is Learn and Live. You’ll love their website www.americanheart.org to find all sorts of helpful information: healthy cooking, dining out, healthy eating for kids, and heart-smart shopping. They suggest making small changes in your diet every chance you get and you’ll have a healthier and happier heart!

Sometimes we need a more personal approach, especially if there’s a health crisis at hand or some chronic conditions such as diabetes, eating disorders or just plain fatigue with diets that don’t work. I’d like to introduce a colleague of mine, Mandisa, who’s a certified nutrition educator and a pleasure to work with. Her website also has wonderful information; www.simpleholisticliving.com.

The Secret (Everyone Should Know) to Boost Metabolism and Weight Loss

Are you ready to get off the diet roller coaster once and for all? It’s February and most of us have convinced ourselves “this year, I’m starting my diet.” However, almost every year most of us have our new year resolution and we do pretty good for a while. We learn new nutrition information and renew our commitment to stick to our diet. Then what happens? We lose motivation. We fall off track and stay stuck. Sound familiar?

Healthy living and eating has many benefits. However, in this society we have been conditioned to think of healthy food as boring and bland. And stress is socially acceptable and not many of us have any time for ourselves. This somehow fuels the possibility that living healthy is dreadful and unreachable. This is a very limiting belief of what healthy eating and healing can be.

How does this relate to boosting your metabolic power? Let’s first look at the metabolic connection between stress and metabolism. According to the American Medical Journal of Sciences, the human body is built with a brilliant system called the Autonomic Nervous System (ANS).

Scientists show the ANS is responsible for digestion. The Parasympathetic Nervous System and Sympathetic Nervous System are two sub-systems of the ANS. The Parasympathetic Nervous System is commonly known as the “Rest and Digest” response. This is the optimal state for digestion and boosting metabolism. When the Parasympathetic Nervous system is activated, our metabolism increases. The sympathetic nervous system is known as the “fight or flight system.” This is our stress response. Studies show that when we are stressed out, our digestion shuts down. So how does this relate to increased weight loss?

Well, even though most of us don’t confront tigers on our lunch hour, we do encounter daily stress. On a physiological level, the body doesn’t differentiate between a tiger chasing you, your boss yelling at you or even just getting tense in traffic. All are stressors and tend to trigger the body’s survival mechanism that includes shutting off digestion, directing blood flow away from the gut and to arms and legs, as well as quick thinking. This is a great mechanism for our survival in short term circumstances but also leads to a decrease in our metabolic power in the long term.

Another hormone the body excretes when the body is stressed is cortisol. According to MedicineNet.com, studies show that increased cortisol in the system leads to increased fat accumulation. That means people who are stressed out also tend to gain weight. If you seem to be doing everything right for weight loss but stuck on the same plateau, ask yourself about stress. In a stressed state, no amount of calorie counting or exercise will get you the body you really want.

The Secret to boost metabolism instantly is relaxation to keep the body from producing excessive cortisol. The number one way to do this is to slow down, relax, and practice mindful eating. How can you do this? If you eat breakfast in 10 minutes, make it 15. Give yourself at least 30 minutes to eat lunch and dinner. Maybe you can reschedule your home and work time to give yourself a little more time to eat and relax.

It only takes one minute to get the body back into an optimal metabolic state and that is mindful and conscious breathing. Deep belly breathing helps to turn off the stress and activates the Parasympathetic Nervous response. When we consciously adopt the deep, belly rhythmic breathing patterns of the relaxed state, we trick the central nervous system and allow our body to shift from low digestive activity to a state of full digestive activity.

At every meal ask yourself, “am I about to eat under stress?” If the answer is yes, take 10 long, slow, deep belly breaths. Breathing this way before and during meals is great way to become a more relaxed eater and boost metabolism that leads to increased weight loss.

To learn more about a holistic weight loss series and programs to help you get unstuck in your weight goals, call 650.557.1463 or visit simpleholisticliving.com. Mandisa Fabris is a Certified Nutrition Counselor, Wellness Expert and Life Coach.
References: www.westsideobserver.com/columns/Caren.html

I love your feedback, how you like the articles, any questions, or any suggestions for future articles. Please call me at 650.359.6579 blessings, Sharon Caren.

February 2010

Swine Flu Mass Vaccination Programs ‘09–’10

I’m passing along this valuable information because I believe it’s important given the decisions many are faced with regarding the current vaccination programs. Let’s not be led blindly without first asking questions and reviewing pros and cons.

In the case of the 1976 swine flu pandemic, a government-directed mass vaccination program, several dozen of the vaccine recipients died and hundreds were injured. Those families who were able to sue (and win), were awarded millions of dollars for the injuries caused by the untested vaccine formulations.

Three years ago, legislators strategically passed The Biodefense and Pandemic Vaccine and Drug Development Act of 2006 (AKA BioShield II). This law strips Americans of the right to a jury trial if harmed by an experimental drug or vaccine during a declared pandemic. So, keep in mind, there is no guaranteed compensation program for those who may be injured or for families whose loved ones die from being vaccinated or treated.

Symptoms of Vaccine Injury:

• Inability to focus at school and at home and lack of eye contact.

• Depression, moodiness; tendency to overreact emotionally.

• Delayed or unusual speech patterns such as high pitched or flat intonation.

• Hyper or hypo-sensitivity to light, sound, crowds and other external stimulation.

• Difficulty with fine and gross motor skills such as handwriting, athletic coordination and endurance sports such as running and swimming.

• Repetitive behaviors and ritualized activities.

• Difficulty in making and keeping friends later in life.

• Asthma and diet issues.

• Conditions often labeled as ADD/ADHD such as inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity.

• Significant abnormal bowel function or vasculitis.

• Birth defects including cleft palate, microcephaly or pyloric stenosis.

• Guillian Barre’ Syndrome, a neurological disorder.

The above information came from Infection and Autoimmunity by Yehuda Shoenfeld & Noel R. Rose, American Journal of Epidemiology, Delivering Influenza Vaccine to Pregnant Women by David M. Ayoub, MD, F. Edward Yazbak, MD and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.

Who has been designated as Priority Recipients for the First Wave of Experimental Swine-flu Vaccines?

• School children who have never had a flu shot are targeted for four shots in the fall—twice for seasonal flu, twice for pandemic swine flu. (Sept. 10, 2009 US News & World Report) Multi-dose vials will contain Thimerosal (49.6-wt-% mercury).

• All students and staff associated with schools (K-12th grade) and children (aged 6 months or older) and staff in child care centers.

• Pregnant women, children 6 months to 4 years of age, new parents and households in contact with children.

• Health care workers and emergency services sector personnel.

• Adults less than 65 years old with medical conditions that increase the risk of influenza.

Hummm … why haven’t our top national leaders been included in this list as first priority recipients????

What’s in these Vaccines…?

Depending on the manufacturer, H1N1 may contain a potentially debilitating oil based additive primarily composed of Squalene (MF59, AS03, AS04). When this oil was injected in laboratory rats, they developed a disease that left them crippled. Thimerosal (Mercury) is heavily implicated as a major cause of mass generational epidemic in developmental disorders (including the autism spectrum disorders; ADD, ADHD, and OCD), endocrine-system dysfunction, and immune-system-related chronic diseases of the lungs, bowel, pancreas, liver and cardiovascular system. Other components: Formaldehyde (a neurotoxin and carcinogen) egg protein, contaminant viruses, antibiotics, and detergent.

The Sanofi Pasteur’s Fluzone Vaccine package insert clearly states the dangers:
“Teratogenic effects: Pregnancy Category C:

Animal reproduction studies have not been conducted with Fluzone vaccine. It is not known whether Fluzone vaccine can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman or can affect reproduction capacity. Fluzone vaccine should be given to a pregnant woman only if clearly needed.

“Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility:

Fluzone vaccine has not been evaluated for carcinogenic or mutagenic potential, or for impairment of fertility.”

Okay, so Now What?

Under Federal Law (NVICP 1986) your Vaccine Provider is required to:

• Give you vaccine benefit and risk information prior to vaccination.

• Obtain your written consent before administration.

• Keep a permanent record of all vaccinations given, including the manufacturer’s name and lot number.

• Document serious health problems, hospitalizations, injuries, and deaths that occur after vaccination in your or your child’s permanent medical record.

• Report serious health problems, hospitalizations, injuries, and deaths that occur after vaccination to the federal Vaccine Adverse Event Reposting System (VAERS).

What to do if you decide to Decline?

• Ask your State Attorney General, Legislator or Governor whether your state law exemptions from vaccine programs (medical, religious, philosophical) apply during a declared pandemic or health emergency.

• If exemptions are available, contact your health care or school professionals for forms to fill out giving notice that you or your family members are exempt and are declining the vaccines and/or treatments.

• Find out if swine flu or pandemic vaccines will be required for students and staff in order to attend public schools.

• Pursuant to Federal Law (NVICP 1986), demand that your vaccine provider give you a benefit and risk vaccine information statement prior to vaccination. They MUST obtain your written consent before administration.

• Find out if exposed persons have the right to self-quarantine at home.

Personally, I have a problem with forcing drugs/vaccines (not to mention untested ones) on anyone, especially our children and pregnant women. What might the impact be on humanity? Let’s step back and get out of the fear created by drug companies. Now they’re using scarcity tactics, telling the public they don’t have enough of the vaccine for everyone because of the horrible pandemic. Statistics show there are no more flu cases right now than the usual seasonal flu, maybe less in some areas.

Why not try something totally natural?

David Stewart, Ph.D. suggests an Antimicrobial Blend of Essential Oils. He is currently on the faculty of the Institute for Energy Wellness Studies in Brampton, Ontario, Canada

Essential oils are anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal. They are the most potent antioxidants in the world and promote health and healing without unpleasant side effects. Combinations of oils in a blend are often more effective than single species. One of the most versatile and useful blends contains five oils:

Clove, lemon, rosemary, cinnamon, eucalyptus

The above blend has been successfully used on conditions ranging from acne to diabetes, from headaches to athlete’s foot, from toothaches to tumors. You can inhale it and diffuse it. You can take it in your drinks and in food. Properly diluted, gargle or swallow it, or put it under your tongue. Rub it on your skin diluted or apply straight to your palms and soles of your feet. It can revitalize pets or kill mold in houses and clean pots and pans.

This blend has been known to stop the onset of flu, common cold, and the Black Plague of 1720. Science has shown them to be as effective, or more so, than several antibiotics, yet they are natural, non-toxic and have no known negative side effects (unlike prescription drugs and commercial antiseptics that all have harmful side effects). The blend is bottled and called Thieves. You’ll only find it in one essential oil company.

Actually, there’s an entire line of products containing this oil blend of Thieves i.e. waterless hand soap, to keep in your pocket or purse to fight these nasty super bugs, along with handy wipes, foaming hand soap, household cleaner, toothpaste, mouthwash, throat lozenges, and capsules you can take internally as a natural antibiotic. You’ll be completely winterized when you’re safely equipped with this wonderful product. My husband and I use all the products daily and diffuse the Thieves oil every night when we sleep. We do not get sick…it really works and we do have choices! www.youngliving.com/sharoncaren

For more info, contact me 650.359.6579 or email sharoncaren@comcast.net and don’t wait. Your health may depend on it.

December 2009

Rub a Dub, Dub…Know what’s in your Tub?

How some personal care products may threaten your health…

By Sharon Caren

First, a big “Thank You” for all the phone calls and emails I received regarding the Chloramine article. It’s time to voice our disgust to the politicians and get the Chloramine out of the water supply. If you’d like to write a letter and need the information, please go to www.westsideobserver.com/columnists.htm and look up my September 2009 article.

Second, a special thanks Sena Miller, for inspiring this article and sharing research on toxins found in our personal care products that deposit unhealthy amounts of toxic chemicals in our body every day.

Here’s a brief summary of the most common toxic ingredients in personal care items:

DEA – Diethanolamine is found in over 600 home and office products. It’s linked to cancers of liver, kidney, stomach, and esophagus as well as dangerous in fetal brain development and miscarriages (according to studies at University of North Carolina). It’s a lathering agent additive and found in toothpaste, shampoo, soap, and lotion.

Propylene Glycol is the main ingredient in anti-freeze solutions, hydraulic fluid, de-icing applications and paint. It helps keep liquids smooth. Taken from Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS), this substance can inhibit skin cell growth and damage cell membranes causing rashes, dry skin and surface damage. Harmful by inhalation, ingestion or skin absorption, eye irritation, gastrointestinal disturbances, nausea, headache, vomiting and central nervous system depression. It’s found in toothpaste, deodorant, shampoo, soap, and lotion.

SLS/SLES – Sodium Lauryl Sulfate/Sodium Laureth Sulfate is a foaming agent and used in industrial capacities to clean concrete floors, degrease engines and as car wash detergent. It effects the body as a mutagen, meaning that in sufficient amounts, it’s capable of changing genetic information found in cells. In fact, SLS has been used in studies to induce mutations in bacteria. It’s a skin irritant, corrodes hair follicles and impairs hair growth, can damage the immune system and cause inflammation. It’s found in toothpaste, shampoo, and soap.

Talc is a very fine substance used as a dry lubricant to make the skin feel slippery and smooth. In the 1930’s it was linked to post-op lesions. In 1973, we learned it has components similar to asbestos, a known cancer-causing substance. Women who used talcum powder on genital area had 60% risk of ovarian cancer and women who used feminine deodorant spray had a 90% cancer risk. It’s found in body and baby powders, feminine powder, condom lubricant and cosmetics.

Alcohol is found in mouthwash. Those mouthwashes with a 25% alcohol content have been implicated in mouth, tongue and throat cancer.

Aluminum is the 3rd most common element in our environment and is highly toxic to the human body. The World Health Organization suspects a link between Alzheimer’s disease. Aluminum toxicity findings came from autopsies on the brains of Alzheimer’s victims according to a November-December 1993 issue of Public Health Reports. A 2000 issue of Neurotoxicity also discusses the negative effects of environmental aluminum, including decreased renal (kidney) function, neurodegenerative effects, and oxidative injury (free radical damage). It’s used to prevent things from drying out. Example; keeps pet foods soft and chewy. Applied topically, it makes skin feel moist and soft. Found in processed foods, antacids, deodorants, cosmetics, paper products, beverage cans, cooking foil, cookware and baby wipes.

Why are these Ingredients used?

The information here is presented to educate not to scare. Don’t take my word – get out your products and read the labels. If you haven’t a clue what the contents are, it’s usually because the company will sometimes use long technical terms so it’s not obvious. Beware and look up those unfamiliar words and let me know what you find. Seem crazy to find industrial chemicals in our personal hygiene products? Well, everyone wants to save money by purchasing cheaper consumables so here’s the trade off. These additives used by large corporations are inexpensive fillers and they’ve been getting away with it for years. As long as the general public is blinded by the long chemical terminology of the mystery ingredients, these companies will continue to use them. Also, many folks justify it by “Oh well, the price is right” and “After all, these products are FDA approved!”

Make better choices—

The time is now to take responsibility, get educated and put our money where our health is. I’ve been studying and using all natural non-toxic products for the past 10 years after discovering the material above. I’m happy to pay for the best quality, healthful products. My life depends on it.

I’m happy to share with you what I’ve found. Buy your self, your family and friends a gift of love and long life this Holiday Season—you will experience the difference. There are products and gift certificates available. Call me 650.359.6579 or email sharoncaren@comcast.net. Get the industrial toxins out of your life!

November 2009

YOUR BODY’S MANY CRIES FOR WATER

By F. Batmanghelidj, M.D.

You’re not sick, you’re thirsty…don’t treat thirst with medications!

In 1997 I read this book by Dr. B and was forever changed. I thought I was drinking a lot of water and realized I was only getting about half of what my body needed.

Starting my own study, I began asking all my clients about their water intake. Dr. B suggests a minimum of ½ your body weight in oz. of pure, clean water a day. If you weigh 150 lbs. it’s 75 oz. I found most of my clients’ water consumption ran short. I also noticed the clients who drank little to none, didn’t show much improvement after working with me. The light went on. With dehydration, the muscles in the body lose elasticity as well as flexibility and cannot be stretched.

Dr. B has treated over 3,000 patients in eliminating pain with plain old water when the highest forms of medication have failed. See www.watercure.com. Dehydration is a viscous cycle. When we feel thirst, we’re already dehydrated. Strangely, the more dehydrated, the less thirsty we feel. As a defense mechanism, the body moves the thirst markers…the less water, the less thirst.

• Stress – is a huge factor in dehydration. Every function of the body depends on the efficient flow of water. So what happens?

• Solid Food Digestion – depends on large quantities of water absorbed in the stomach after it is ingested. Anti-acids and pain meds for heartburn won’t take the place of water needed to get the job done.

A misunderstood and upsetting condition of severe dehydration is bulimia. Most notable, Princess Diana became anti-social and suffered from constant hunger. When trying to eat without water for digestion, she couldn’t retain food and had the instant and uncontrollable urge to vomit. In bulimic people, the sensation of hunger is the indicator of thirst and the urge to vomit is a protection mechanism. If bulimics begin to re-hydrate drinking water before food intake, the problem could disappear.

• Rheumatoid Arthritis – Joint movement causes a vacuum within the joint space. Water is pulled through the bone and cartilage and into the joint cavity if it’s available. A dehydrated joint needs some form of fluid circulation in the capsule of the joint, hence the swelling and tenderness of the joint capsule. The inflammation process may appear as if there’s infection when it’s really dehydration.

Several other common symptoms of dehydration are high blood pressure and cholesterol as a result of declining hormones and excess body weight due to poor digestion and depression.

Why don’t we hear about this type of treatment from our health care providers? Funding for research on evaluation of water as a natural medicine isn’t readily available nor is it very attractive to scientist. Students in medical schools are not taught anything about the many roles that water plays in the human body.

Those of us who know and understand the importance of water intake for healthy body functions must speak out for this simple and natural healing method. It’s a crime so many in Western health care are more interested in making money with high powered drugs, treatments, and surgeries, when the cure could start with drinking a few glasses of water.

Please refer to my past articles at www.westsideobserver.com/sharon for more water related subjects. I appreciate your questions and feedback so call me anytime 650.359.6579 or email sharoncaren@comcast.net.

Make water your drink of choice……………………………………………………..

October 2009

Kill Winter Cooties Naturally

Kids are back in school and with the cold weather approaching, what can we do to help our family stay healthy? The germs, bacteria and respiratory viruses around us today have never been stronger or more antibiotic-resistant. An ounce of protection is worth a pound of cure (someone said) so building and maintaining a strong immune system is the first order of business. If you didn’t read my Sept. article, please go to: www.westsideobserver.com/ Click on Columnists and scroll to the bottom to read my back issue on Antioxidants.

My second point is proper hand washing. I know, it sounds really elementary. However look at these stats below.

•Failure to wash hands or insufficiently washing hands, contributes to almost 50% of food borne illness outbreaks.

•More than 52 million cases of the common cold each year are among Americans under 17 years of age.

•About 22 million school days are lost due to the common cold alone.

•Centers for Disease Control estimate in the U.S. more than 100,000 people are hospitalized and about 36,000 die from flu and complications each year.

•The single most important thing we can do to prevent sickness and spreading illness to others is to clean our hands.

Lets teach our kids to use a natural waterless hand cleaner when a basin isn’t available or at a basin, whenever possible:

1. Wet hands with warm water and apply soap.
2. Lather soap by rubbing hands together, covering top & palms of hands, rubbing between fingers and under fingernails. Continue for 20 seconds (sing happy birthday to you – 4 times).
3. Thoroughly rinse under running water.
4. Dry hands with paper towel or air dryer; use paper towel to turn off faucet and open bathroom door.

For the past 10 years, I’ve been studying and using 100% Pure Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils personally, with my family and clients, as an alternative to pharmacology for colds and viruses with positive results. What is an Essential Oil exactly? It’s the blood (Chi, life force) of the plant distilled at a very high pressure (as in pressure cooking) but at a very, very low temperature. This substance is alive and these live enzymes support our system by raising our body’s vibration or energy level. Everything has an energy vibration, and the energy or frequency of the plant is harmonious with us humans. Humans and plants are made up of the same substance from the earth. The blood of the plant helps to raise our energy level, our immune system kicks in, and the body heals its self. Oils won’t alter our body’s chemistry,they only support it.

Natural substances can’t be patented so drug companies will take a natural plant substance and change it molecularly so it can be patented and sold with a particular brand name. However, something does change when the molecular structure is altered. The plant is no longer in the pure and highly complex form as nature intended. Usually that’s where the side effects come in and we all know the rest of that story.

Essential Oils have been around for thousands of years. I have a photo of a terra-cotta distiller, the oldest known distiller in the world (circa 4,000 B.C.) In ancient Egypt, the Kings, Queens, and Pharaohs used the oils for physical and emotional healing. The oils were also used for preserving mummies for their long journey in the afterlife. 33 alabaster jars of Essential Oils were found in King Tut’s tomb in 1922, still intact when uncovered. Since the distillation process was expensive, the oils were considered gold and used only by the extremely wealthy. When the blood of the plant was removed during distillation, what was left over was the dried plant or the herb and that was the medicine used by the common people for healing. There was no pharmacy!

There are many accounts in the Bible of Essential Oils throughout the scriptures mentioning: Aloes (sandalwood), Cassia, Cedarwood, Frankincense, Galbanum, Hyssop, Myrrh, Myrtle, Onycha, Rose of Sharon (cistus) and Spikenard. When the Wise Men brought gifts to Baby Jesus of gold, Frankincense and Myrrh, the oils were the gold. There was no way for common folk to get valuable healing oils. Frankincense was used for protection from negativity and Myrrh was the best antiseptic available after childbirth; everything one would need to keep a newborn safe and healthy.

Historically, in Marseilles, France, 1400 AD during the Medieval plague, 4 spice runners robbed the dead and dying without becoming sick. When captured, the thieves revealed a mixture of clove, rosemary and other aromatics they rubbed all over their bodies to protect themselves against the deadly plague. They gave up the recipe in exchange for a lesser sentence.

Looking back over history, here are some suggested Pure Essential Oils for Winter:

Clove Oil – high in antioxidant power and immune-enhancing properties

Rosemary Oil – natural energizer, helps to restore mental alertness when fatigued

Cinnamon Bark Oil – high in antioxidants, relieves discomfort during Winter Season and supports digestion

Eucalyptus Radiata Oil – lab testing has shown it’s effectiveness against bacteria when used topically

Lemon Oil – powerful antioxidant and known for it’s ability to act as a natural solvent and cleanser

My suggestion is to give Essential Oils a try if your doctor doesn’t prescribe something for the common cold or flu this season. The oils are used topically, internally and diffused - Natures Medicine.

Each of these oils individually are very powerful. There’s a synergy when the oils are blended together and the healing power is increased. If you’re interested in finding out about the oil blend of “Thieves”, the five oils mentioned above, please call me 650.359.6579 or email at sharon@sharoncaren.com Happy Oiling!

October 2008

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