Network Healing Centre - NHC Newsletter

Network Healing Centre
May 2006
Newsletter

Important Dates to Remember!

Thursday, April 18^th from 7:15pm to 8:15 pm – Wellness Workshop

Sunday, May 14^th – Mother’s Day

Monday, April 22^nd – Office Closed for Victoria Day

Tuesday, April 30^th from 7:15pm to 8:15 pm – Gateway to Healing Introductory Workshop

New Summer Hours for Dr. Michael Tucker’s office!

Beginning June 1^st, Dr. Tucker’s office hours will be as follows:

Monday 7:30 am – 11am and 2pm -7pm

Tuesday 7:30 am – 1 pm and 5pm -7pm

Thursday 7:30 am -9:30 am and 2pm -7pm

Gateway to Healing Introductory Workshop
With Dr. Michael Tucker, DC
Tuesday, April 18, 2006 from 7-8 pm

A complimentary Information Session for all New Patients to attend as well as anyone who is interested in learning more about Network Spinal Analysis Chiropractic and how this gentle method can help in many different ways. The Workshop consists of a half hour talk about the work, followed by a half hour demonstration of the work. This workshop is an important part of your care and we encourage you to join us.

Call Andrea at 725-0988 to reserve your space

The Art of Prenatal Massage

What is prenatal massage?
Massage during pregnancy is therapeutic bodywork which focuses on the special needs of the mother-to-be as her body goes through the dramatic changes of the childbirth experience. Massage therapy enhances the function of muscles and joints, improves circulation and general body tone, and relieves mental and physical fatigue.

The popularity of prenatal massage is the result of a trend toward a higher level of wellness, especially during pregnancy. Many women are postponing childbirth until they have achieved other goals, such as careers and relationships. Because of this, pregnancy is anticipated and enjoyed to its fullest for the wondrous experience it is. Today's pregnant women – along with other health care consumers – are looking for alternative approaches to support traditional health services.

Benefits of prenatal massage include:

emotional support and nurturing touch;

relaxation and decreased insomnia;

stress relief on weight-bearing joints, such as ankles, lower back and pelvis;

neck and back pain relief caused by muscle imbalance and weakness;

assistance in maintaining proper posture;

preparing the muscles used during childbirth;

reduced swelling in hands and feet;

lessened sciatic pain;

fewer calf cramps;

headaches and sinus congestion relief.

Benefits of prenatal massage
In addition to the fact that massage during pregnancy just plain feel good; there are many other benefits for the mom-to-be and her baby, too. A study conducted by Dr. Tiffany Field at the University of Miami School of Medicine showed that massage actually reduces stress hormones in the body. Touch is vital to the mother's physical and emotional well-being as she adapts to her new body image. Regardless of individual circumstances, a pregnant woman's body is challenged, changed and stressed in many ways. Massage gives special attention to the mother-to-be, which in turn nurtures the new life that grows within her.

Is prenatal massage for you?
Massage during pregnancy is usually safe for most mothers. Your massage therapist will want to know if you are having any problems or complications with your pregnancy before you begin.

In addition to these areas, one other precaution needs to be mentioned: Direct and sustained pressure should not be applied to the area between the ankle bone and heel. This area is considered by many massage therapists and reflexologists to relate with the uterus and vagina, and it is thought that heavy pressure to this area could promote early labor. Assuming there are no other precautions or considerations, it should be all right to massage the rest of the feet.

Massage pointers
Because of the tremendous physical and hormonal changes that occur in the expectant mother, I do not recommend any massage during the first trimester. In my opinion, this is the time for the mother to get comfortable with being pregnant. The second and third trimesters are wonderful times to begin prenatal massage.

Massage can be performed anywhere from 10 minutes to one hour, depending on how much time you have and how much discomfort you are experiencing. Once a week during the second trimester is great, and twice a week or more, during the third trimester is wonderful. In my practice and in my teaching, I have found that my pregnant clients appreciate their massage therapy appointments because they know relief is at hand.

by Kelly Lott, RMT

Kelly Lott is a Registered Massage Therapist, Certified Massage Therapist, Certified Massage Therapy Instructor, Certified Pregnancy Massage Therapist, and Certified Infant Massage Instructor in Texas.

Wellness Workshop
with Dr. Michael Tucker, D.C.
Tuesday, March 28^th from 7-8 p.m.

This complimentary workshop provides an in-depth view of NSA and how it can be useful to enhance quality of life and well-being. It aims at providing continuing support to patients who are committed to Network Care. Please call Andrea at 725-0988 to reserve your space

Women and CST

Craniosacral Therapy works to reverse the debilitating effects of stress by providing the conditions in which the nervous system can rest and rejuvenate. In fact, it's this capacity to reduce stress that's leading an increasing number of women to include CST as a part of their wellness routines.

CranioSacral therapy involves all of the bones of the skull, face and mouth which make up the cranium and extends by a system of hydraulics and membranes to the lower end of the spine or sacrum. The craniosacral system includes a palpable rhythm or pulse that helps practitioners to determine whether or not the body is functioning properly and where there may be areas of pain and dysfunction. By using their palpation skills a CST practitioner can listen to the body and then assist in the release of restrictions.

These restrictions are the result of trauma either physical or emotional. Often emotional trauma is stored in our bodies as restrictions and until these emotional traumas are released the body won’t heal. Until these stored blocks are released, they can continue to cause pain and may be the cause of additional problems.

Time Magazine selected Dr. Upledger as one of their ten most important innovators of Alternative Medicine for the 21st century in July, 2001

Women's Health and Far Infrared Sauna

The benefits of detoxification of food and environmental pollutants are far reaching in optimizing the health of women today. Far Infrared (FIR) saunas help to purify cells where our body stores waste and harmful toxins, such as cholesterol and heavy metals which can lead to disease. Detoxification is made simple and relaxing with the FIR sauna.

Far infrared (FIR) saunas have shown to assist in weight loss, pain management, skin purification, detoxification and stress reduction. Far infrared saunas can also provide relief to those suffering from arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and certain skin conditions. Far infrared sauna therapy surrounds the body and penetrates deeply into joints, muscles and tissues, speeding oxygen flow and increasing circulation.

Natural body healing with FIR therapy leads to a healthier lifestyle for you and those around you.

SPRING DETOX SPECIAL

10 sessions $215.00 plus GST

call Andrea to schedule your appointments.

Let go….

To “let go” does not mean to stop caring, it means

I can’t do it for someone else.

To “let go” is not to cut myself off, it’s the realization

I can’t control another.

To “let go” is not to enable, but to allow learning

from natural consequences.

To “let go” is to admit powerlessness, which means

The outcome is not in my hands.

To “let go” is not to try to change or blame another.

It’s to make the most of myself.

To “let go” is not to care for, but to care about.

To “let go” is not to fix, but to be supportive.

To “let go” is not to judge, but to allow another to be

A human being.

To “let go” is not to be in the middle arranging all the

Outcomes, but to allow others to affect their own destinies.

To “let go” is not to be protective, it’s to permit

Another to face reality.

To “let go” is not to deny, but to accept.

To “let go” is not to nag, scold or argue, but instead

To search out my own shortcomings and correct them.

To “let go” is not to adjust everything to my desires

But to take each day as it comes, and cherish

Myself in it.

To “let go” is not to criticize and regulate anybody

But to try to become what I dream I can be.

To “let go” is not to regret the past, but to grow and

Live for the future.

To “let go” is to fear less and love more.

To “let go” is not to judge my feelings

As wrong or inappropriate.

Exercise and Pregnancy

By Dr. Leesa Kirchner, N.D.

Is it safe for me to exercise during pregnancy?

There are many great reasons to exercise during pregnancy, and it can be very safe. However, it is very important that you confer with your healthcare provider to determine if you have any circumstances that would prevent you from safely exercising. In addition, if you were not a regular exerciser before becoming pregnant, it is recommended to start a new regimen very slowly. Please consult with your naturopathic doctor if you have any concerns or questions.

What are some benefits to exercising during pregnancy?

- increased energy

- improved body image

- prevention and management of gestational diabetes

- prevention and management of hypertension (high blood pressure)

- prevention of varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and swelling

- prevention of incontinence

- prevention of back pain

- help position baby more optimally

- training for proper breathing during labour and delivery

- quicker labour

- increased pushing strength in labour

- decreases risk of preterm birth

- decreased risk of C-section

- decreased risk of episiotomy or tears

- quicker post-partum recovery

- redistribution of blood flow in response to exercise may cause decreased oxygen to the fetus

- changes in sugar metabolism with pregnancy can increase risk of low blood sugar with exercise

* Swimming is probably the best option because the cool water prevents excessive heating, and it has zero impact. If you are not a strong swimmer, try walking in chest deep water, or wearing a floatation device.

- maintain your current frequency of exercise, or, if just beginning, start with 15 minutes of aerobic exercise 3 days a week, and work up to 30 minutes daily

- recommended heart rate depends on the individual; exercise at an intensity that makes it slightly difficult to carry on a conversation, but not so intense that you are out of breath

* Due to the increased volume of blood with pregnancy, your heart rate will increase – your training heart rate should be 25% less than that of pre-pregnancy

- eat a snack containing a protein and complex carbohydrate at least an hour before exercising, and immediately after, to help maintain blood sugar levels e.g. whole grain bread with nut butter

– core training is very important; core muscles include abdominal and low back muscles, as well as gluteals

- stability ball exercises are great ways to strengthen the core, and to maintain proper posture and balance throughout pregnancy; see your naturopath for suggestions

- once you have identified these muscles, practice contracting them slowly for sets of 10 repetitions throughout the day (not while urinating)

- for general strength training, keep weight low, repetitions high, and BREATHE!

- exercises such as Yoga and Pilates are very beneficial to overall strength and flexibility

- hormones secreted in pregnancy cause the joints to be more flexible naturally, so this may not be a vital part of your pregnancy training regime; in fact, it is a good idea to strength train to provide stability around your newly flexible joints!

Send date:	Tuesday, 25 April 2006
Mailing subject:	May 2006 Newsletter
Mailing content:
Network Healing Centre May 2006 Newsletter Important Dates to Remember! Thursday, April 18^th from 7:15pm to 8:15 pm – Wellness Workshop Sunday, May 14^th – Mother’s Day Monday, April 22^nd – Office Closed for Victoria Day Tuesday, April 30^th from 7:15pm to 8:15 pm – Gateway to Healing Introductory Workshop New Summer Hours for Dr. Michael Tucker’s office! Beginning June 1^st, Dr. Tucker’s office hours will be as follows: Monday 7:30 am – 11am and 2pm -7pm Tuesday 7:30 am – 1 pm and 5pm -7pm Thursday 7:30 am -9:30 am and 2pm -7pm Gateway to Healing Introductory Workshop With Dr. Michael Tucker, DC Tuesday, April 18, 2006 from 7-8 pm A complimentary Information Session for all New Patients to attend as well as anyone who is interested in learning more about Network Spinal Analysis Chiropractic and how this gentle method can help in many different ways. The Workshop consists of a half hour talk about the work, followed by a half hour demonstration of the work. This workshop is an important part of your care and we encourage you to join us. Call Andrea at 725-0988 to reserve your space The Art of Prenatal Massage What is prenatal massage? Massage during pregnancy is therapeutic bodywork which focuses on the special needs of the mother-to-be as her body goes through the dramatic changes of the childbirth experience. Massage therapy enhances the function of muscles and joints, improves circulation and general body tone, and relieves mental and physical fatigue. The popularity of prenatal massage is the result of a trend toward a higher level of wellness, especially during pregnancy. Many women are postponing childbirth until they have achieved other goals, such as careers and relationships. Because of this, pregnancy is anticipated and enjoyed to its fullest for the wondrous experience it is. Today's pregnant women – along with other health care consumers – are looking for alternative approaches to support traditional health services. Benefits of prenatal massage include: emotional support and nurturing touch; relaxation and decreased insomnia; stress relief on weight-bearing joints, such as ankles, lower back and pelvis; neck and back pain relief caused by muscle imbalance and weakness; assistance in maintaining proper posture; preparing the muscles used during childbirth; reduced swelling in hands and feet; lessened sciatic pain; fewer calf cramps; headaches and sinus congestion relief. Benefits of prenatal massage In addition to the fact that massage during pregnancy just plain feel good; there are many other benefits for the mom-to-be and her baby, too. A study conducted by Dr. Tiffany Field at the University of Miami School of Medicine showed that massage actually reduces stress hormones in the body. Touch is vital to the mother's physical and emotional well-being as she adapts to her new body image. Regardless of individual circumstances, a pregnant woman's body is challenged, changed and stressed in many ways. Massage gives special attention to the mother-to-be, which in turn nurtures the new life that grows within her. Is prenatal massage for you? Massage during pregnancy is usually safe for most mothers. Your massage therapist will want to know if you are having any problems or complications with your pregnancy before you begin. In addition to these areas, one other precaution needs to be mentioned: Direct and sustained pressure should not be applied to the area between the ankle bone and heel. This area is considered by many massage therapists and reflexologists to relate with the uterus and vagina, and it is thought that heavy pressure to this area could promote early labor. Assuming there are no other precautions or considerations, it should be all right to massage the rest of the feet. Massage pointers Because of the tremendous physical and hormonal changes that occur in the expectant mother, I do not recommend any massage during the first trimester. In my opinion, this is the time for the mother to get comfortable with being pregnant. The second and third trimesters are wonderful times to begin prenatal massage. Massage can be performed anywhere from 10 minutes to one hour, depending on how much time you have and how much discomfort you are experiencing. Once a week during the second trimester is great, and twice a week or more, during the third trimester is wonderful. In my practice and in my teaching, I have found that my pregnant clients appreciate their massage therapy appointments because they know relief is at hand. by Kelly Lott, RMT Kelly Lott is a Registered Massage Therapist, Certified Massage Therapist, Certified Massage Therapy Instructor, Certified Pregnancy Massage Therapist, and Certified Infant Massage Instructor in Texas. Wellness Workshop with Dr. Michael Tucker, D.C. Tuesday, March 28^th from 7-8 p.m. This complimentary workshop provides an in-depth view of NSA and how it can be useful to enhance quality of life and well-being. It aims at providing continuing support to patients who are committed to Network Care. Please call Andrea at 725-0988 to reserve your space Women and CST Craniosacral Therapy works to reverse the debilitating effects of stress by providing the conditions in which the nervous system can rest and rejuvenate. In fact, it's this capacity to reduce stress that's leading an increasing number of women to include CST as a part of their wellness routines. CranioSacral therapy involves all of the bones of the skull, face and mouth which make up the cranium and extends by a system of hydraulics and membranes to the lower end of the spine or sacrum. The craniosacral system includes a palpable rhythm or pulse that helps practitioners to determine whether or not the body is functioning properly and where there may be areas of pain and dysfunction. By using their palpation skills a CST practitioner can listen to the body and then assist in the release of restrictions. These restrictions are the result of trauma either physical or emotional. Often emotional trauma is stored in our bodies as restrictions and until these emotional traumas are released the body won’t heal. Until these stored blocks are released, they can continue to cause pain and may be the cause of additional problems. Time Magazine selected Dr. Upledger as one of their ten most important innovators of Alternative Medicine for the 21st century in July, 2001 Women's Health and Far Infrared Sauna The benefits of detoxification of food and environmental pollutants are far reaching in optimizing the health of women today. Far Infrared (FIR) saunas help to purify cells where our body stores waste and harmful toxins, such as cholesterol and heavy metals which can lead to disease. Detoxification is made simple and relaxing with the FIR sauna. Far infrared (FIR) saunas have shown to assist in weight loss, pain management, skin purification, detoxification and stress reduction. Far infrared saunas can also provide relief to those suffering from arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromyalgia, and certain skin conditions. Far infrared sauna therapy surrounds the body and penetrates deeply into joints, muscles and tissues, speeding oxygen flow and increasing circulation. Natural body healing with FIR therapy leads to a healthier lifestyle for you and those around you. SPRING DETOX SPECIAL 10 sessions $215.00 plus GST call Andrea to schedule your appointments. Let go…. To “let go” does not mean to stop caring, it means I can’t do it for someone else. To “let go” is not to cut myself off, it’s the realization I can’t control another. To “let go” is not to enable, but to allow learning from natural consequences. To “let go” is to admit powerlessness, which means The outcome is not in my hands. To “let go” is not to try to change or blame another. It’s to make the most of myself. To “let go” is not to care for, but to care about. To “let go” is not to fix, but to be supportive. To “let go” is not to judge, but to allow another to be A human being. To “let go” is not to be in the middle arranging all the Outcomes, but to allow others to affect their own destinies. To “let go” is not to be protective, it’s to permit Another to face reality. To “let go” is not to deny, but to accept. To “let go” is not to nag, scold or argue, but instead To search out my own shortcomings and correct them. To “let go” is not to adjust everything to my desires But to take each day as it comes, and cherish Myself in it. To “let go” is not to criticize and regulate anybody But to try to become what I dream I can be. To “let go” is not to regret the past, but to grow and Live for the future. To “let go” is to fear less and love more. To “let go” is not to judge my feelings As wrong or inappropriate. Exercise and Pregnancy By Dr. Leesa Kirchner, N.D. Is it safe for me to exercise during pregnancy? There are many great reasons to exercise during pregnancy, and it can be very safe. However, it is very important that you confer with your healthcare provider to determine if you have any circumstances that would prevent you from safely exercising. In addition, if you were not a regular exerciser before becoming pregnant, it is recommended to start a new regimen very slowly. Please consult with your naturopathic doctor if you have any concerns or questions. What are some benefits to exercising during pregnancy? - increased energy - improved body image - prevention and management of gestational diabetes - prevention and management of hypertension (high blood pressure) - prevention of varicose veins, hemorrhoids, and swelling - prevention of incontinence - prevention of back pain - help position baby more optimally - training for proper breathing during labour and delivery - quicker labour - increased pushing strength in labour - decreases risk of preterm birth - decreased risk of C-section - decreased risk of episiotomy or tears - quicker post-partum recovery What are some risks to exercising during pregnancy? - redistribution of blood flow in response to exercise may cause decreased oxygen to the fetus - overheating with exercise may be harmful to fetal development - increased laxity of joints with pregnancy can increase risk of injury - changes in centre of gravity and weight may cause imbalance and instability - changes in sugar metabolism with pregnancy can increase risk of low blood sugar with exercise What are some general exercise guidelines? Cardiovascular training - low impact activities, such as walking, cycling, and swimming are recommended * Swimming is probably the best option because the cool water prevents excessive heating, and it has zero impact. If you are not a strong swimmer, try walking in chest deep water, or wearing a floatation device. - maintain your current frequency of exercise, or, if just beginning, start with 15 minutes of aerobic exercise 3 days a week, and work up to 30 minutes daily - recommended heart rate depends on the individual; exercise at an intensity that makes it slightly difficult to carry on a conversation, but not so intense that you are out of breath * Due to the increased volume of blood with pregnancy, your heart rate will increase – your training heart rate should be 25% less than that of pre-pregnancy - drink lots of water to prevent dehydration, and to help your body stay cool - eat a snack containing a protein and complex carbohydrate at least an hour before exercising, and immediately after, to help maintain blood sugar levels e.g. whole grain bread with nut butter Strength training – core training is very important; core muscles include abdominal and low back muscles, as well as gluteals - stability ball exercises are great ways to strengthen the core, and to maintain proper posture and balance throughout pregnancy; see your naturopath for suggestions - Kegel exercises – no equipment necessary! - while urinating, stop the flow of urine to locate the muscles to contract - once you have identified these muscles, practice contracting them slowly for sets of 10 repetitions throughout the day (not while urinating) - for general strength training, keep weight low, repetitions high, and BREATHE! - exercises such as Yoga and Pilates are very beneficial to overall strength and flexibility Flexibility Training - hormones secreted in pregnancy cause the joints to be more flexible naturally, so this may not be a vital part of your pregnancy training regime; in fact, it is a good idea to strength train to provide stability around your newly flexible joints! - keep your stretches slow, gentle, and consistent What should I avoid? -Valsalva maneouver (holding your breath while straining) - body contact sports - ballistic (jerky) movements - high weight, low repetition strength training - exercising in high heat or humidity