Over the past two decades, reports on the worldwide HIV/AIDS epidemic have been splashed across our newspapers and delivered to us by newscasters in daily doses. Although the initial shock has worn off for many Americans, the epidemic is thriving with devastating impact in poor, developing countries. Take a moment to consider the following information released by the United Nations (U.N.) in its 2004 global report.
Hypnosis has long been used for pain relief and pain management, and now researchers have gathered some insight into how it may actually work. German researchers teamed up with scientists at the University of Iowa and used a heating device on the skin of 12 healthy subjects, determining a pain threshold for each person. Afterward the painful heat was applied two times, once when the person was in a normal state and once when hypnotized. Both times, researchers measured brain activity with functional magnetic resonance imaging.
In May, with Associated Bodywork & Massage Professionals (ABMP) serving as catalyst and conveyor, a group of state board representatives, educators, and industry stakeholders convened in Denver, Colo., to address the potential formation of an alliance of state massage boards as well as the development of a new entry-level examination for prospective massage licensees.
More than 60 percent of Americans over age 50 are using complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), according to a recent study conducted at Ohio State University. This appears to be a larger percentage than within the general population.
Yoga and bodywork, in their complete expression, are similar fields of practice and self-study. They support one another as learning experiences and as healing systems. Both share a common foundation that focuses on the body and the breath in order to deeply understand the physiological and psychological aspects of our form and the energy systems that support it.
For three decades, educators, therapists, and movement facilitators have been utilizing a powerfully simple tool to break through cognitive barriers. Its success in restoring optimal learning potential through movement relies on creating a truly integrated mind/body dynamic. The process is called Brain Gym, a sort of gymnastics for the brain, and it’s changing how young minds learn.
Air pollutants, toxins, cigarette smoke, cell metabolism, exposure to the sun, and other environmental factors initiate free radicals, which can cause dangerous reactions that destroy cells and damage DNA, proteins, and fats. Free radicals also interfere with collagen production and integrity, resulting in loss of elasticity and, ultimately, aging skin. Although this is a natural and unavoidable by-product of metabolism, an overabundance of free radical damage can cause premature aging and wrinkles. Fortunately, there’s a nutritional way to fight the elements.
As the natural products industry expands, more and more skin care products derived from natural or organic sources are being incorporated into professional regimens. While some swear by the less-aggressive treatments offered by such products, others voice concerns about their overall effectiveness. The simplicity of the natural approach is certainly less likely to cause side effects, but synthetic products may produce faster results. Of course, your decision will rely on specific clients’ needs, but there are strong arguments from both sides of the fence.
Q: I've heard some ingredients in skin care products can be irritating and even toxic. Is this true?
A: According to the Food and Drug Administration's website, "The regulatory requirements governing the sale of cosmetics are not as stringent as those that apply to other FDA-regulated products. Manufacturers may use any ingredient or raw material, except for color additives and a few prohibited substances, to market a product without a government review or approval."
In her new book, Pure Skin: Organic Beauty Basics, Barbara Close redefines the traditional three skin types as five skin personalities, excerpted below. Her book follows up with information on working with each variety to best bring about balance.
In the late 1960s, a trend toward “scientific” skin care led to the introduction of the three skin types we know today: normal, dry, and oily. This classification system went on to dominate the skin-care industry and has changed how women look at their skin.
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