Health News

How Serious is STRESS to You?, By Therese Griffin Hicks, RN, DC, FIACA

Stress refers to any reaction to a physical, mental, social or emotional stimulus that requires a response or alteration to the way we perform, think or feel. Change is stressful--- whether the change is good or bad. Death of a loved one, divorce, fi - nancial pressures, job loss, moving, even marriage or a vacation are stress producing events that burden the body. Some people can create their own stress whether there is anything objectively wrong or not, just by being a chronic worrier. There are those for whom stress becomes an addiction, and frequently people handle stress with an increase in alcohol or nicotine consumption creating a temporary change in their emotional state but causing a longer term negative consequence to their body. Stress can cause fatigue, chronic headaches, irritability, changes in appetite, memory loss, low selfesteem, withdrawal, cold hands and feet, tooth grinding, shallow breathing, and changes in sleep patterns, to name just a few disorders that can be a signal that a serious illness isn’t far off. Research suggests that stress can be a contributor to as many as 80% of all major illnesses. Stress may be viewed as a psychological problem but it has very real physical effects. The adrenal glands over produce adrenalin, blood pressure often elevates, hearts beat faster and there is greater tension in muscles. Symptoms of stress related to digestive disorders may be a fl are-up of an ulcer or irritable bowel syndrome. Also surprising is that fats and sugars are released from stores in the body, cholesterol rises, and the immune system is suppressed. If this situation is prolonged, more serious illness may develop. If you recognize any of these signs in yourself or a loved one, stop and choose to handle the situation immediately. At Hicks Wellness Clinic we have an array of supplements that are designed to help the body handle stress, including a special nutritional combination that is called DSF (De-Stress Formula). Also suggested is a very good B-complex vitamin, a good antioxidant immune booster (I especially like the Greens First supplement that is loaded with immune supporting organics) Of course magnesium and calcium are critical and a defi ciency of these can lead to anxiety, fear and even hallucinations. Targeted nutrition, based on a person’s own system is really the best. Also, a good cleansing program is extremely helpful and we have a 7 day Body Cleanse that is proving exceptional. From our whole body perspective we recommend a minimum of monthly chiropractic adjustments for the greatest of fl exibility and energy, and at least quarterly acupuncture balancing treatments. We also highly suggest a series of 10 to 12 foot detox baths to jump start the release of toxins that may have accumulated from stress and life choices. So, till next time, remember, it’s you body, your health and your choice---pay attention and choose well.

Cancer Survivors to Celebrate"

The 2007 Relay For Life, was a good turnout. We hope that this year brings even more people for support. May 15th, cancer survivors in Gila County will have a chance to celebrate their winning the battle with cancer at Harbison Field during the annual American Cancer Society Relay for Life. They, along with their caretakers who will be honored for their support in helping a loved one, will take a lap around the fi eld on Friday at 5:45 p.m. If you are a survivor or a caretaker, you are invited to come and experience this moving event with those who have shared a similar experience. Survivors will walk the first lap at 5:45 p.m. Friday, joined by their caretakers and loved ones for the second lap. The Luminaria Ceremony Friday at 9:00 p.m. is "in honor of cancer survivors and "in memory of" loved ones who have lost the Cancer Survivors to Celebrate battle. It is the highlight of the Relay. Luminaries can be purchased at the Book Mine on Live Oak Street in Miami and at the Pickle Barrel Trading Post on South Broad Street in Globe. They are both open 7 days a week. All across the nation, over 3000 communities hold Relay for Life events that benefi t the American Cancer Society. The events run 18 continuous hours in honor of those that have fought the long battle with cancer. We celebrate those who have survived their battle as well as remember and honor those who lost the battle. You have to experience it! There is no other event like it. If you haven’t participated before, do it this year. All proceeds raised go to the American Cancer Society for research and development.

Do You Need A Pep Talk?, By Janet Trimble Gila Community College Wellness Center Facilitator

Discipline. Training expected to produce a specific character or pattern of behavior…especially intended to create improvement. Per- Do You Need A Pep Talk? severance. Steady persistence in a course of action or a purpose…especially in spite of diffi culties, obstacles, or discouragement. Commitment. A sincere promise and steadfast focus of purpose…especially when time is too short. Action. Something done…action especially applies to the doing and the result of the doing. It takes discipline, perseverance, commitment, and action to get fit…keep a healthy heart... lose weight…you know - look good, feel better, live your best life. A good way to look at being physically fit is…having enough energy and strength to enjoy leisure activity even after a day of rigorous activity, physical or mental. Here are simple suggestions to put your daily commitment into action and help you find the discipline to persevere: 1. Find time, make a workout schedule and stick to it…your health is priority one. 2. Learn from others who have been there, done that, and lived to tell about it…talk to people and read about fitness. 3. Research, understand, and use an appropriate and personal food plan…take advantage of scientifi c research and development. 4. Write down experiences, thoughts, and feelings; discover what works and what doesn’t… keep a log or notebook and track your progress. 5. Become part of a team, join others who have similar goals and/ or interests in health and fi tness… the Wellness Center is that perfect place. Pep talks are my specialty.