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The Nose Knows - Aroma Therapy Defined

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While fragrance has been used for healing purposes for centuries, it was dubbed aromatherapy in the late 30s, thanks to a French chemist. Aromatherapy uses a plant’s aroma-producing oils (essential oils) to treat disease. Oil taken from a plant’s flowers, leaves, stalks, bark, rind or roots is mixed with another substance, like alcohol, oil or lotion, then sprayed in the air, inhaled or applied to skin. Depending on the type of oil, the result on the body may be calming or stimulating. Specialists of aromatherapy use it to help treat a wide range of physical and mental conditions including burns, infections, depression, sleeplessness and high blood pressure.

Sensory Cells Connect to Brain

The ability to smell comes from sensory cells in a small patch of tissue high inside the nose. These cells connect directly to the part of the brain that plays a major role in controlling our memories, behaviors and emotions therefore, how we interpret and respond to smells.

Aromatherapy Defined

Our nose helps us enjoy the aromas of favorite foods or flowers. Aroma, as defined by Merriam-Webster, is a distinctive and usually pleasant or mouthwatering smell. Therapeutic is relating to the treatment of disease or disorders by methods to provide or assist in a cure. If it passes your sniff test and you’re considering using aromatherapy, tell your doctor.

Source: HealthWise and NIH

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Aroma Therapy
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Posers Welcome – Yoga for Your Health

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Submitted by aduranplazola on

Asana, vinyasa, chaturanga … say what? If you don’t know anything about yoga, learning the terminology alone can be a workout for your mind. Actually, one of the great things about yoga is it exercises your mind and body.

With yoga, you train by stretching and sometimes contorting your body. Remember playing Twister as a kid? This is the grown-up version, only everybody wins. While practicing odd poses with weirder names, you focus on your thoughts and feelings as they happen—a technique sometimes referred to as mindfulness. It teaches you to evaluate and control your emotions, which can decrease stress, anxiety and depression.

You may have been interested in yoga for the increased range of motion, flexibility or the calm it can bring to your mind. However, you may not know that yoga can also relieve back pain and be good for your heart through stress relief.

If you are worried about stretching yourself too thin by starting a new workout, consider several professional athletes from all major sports have adopted yoga into their cross-training routines. The athletes say yoga helps them improve flexibility and focus on their goals. There are even specific yoga poses for runners, golfers, tennis players, basketball players and baseball players.

So, are you ready to get your “om” on? If so, before you start, talk to your doctor about your fitness level and determine where to start. There are multiple levels of yoga to accommodate everyone from a couch potato to a professional athlete.

In case you are still wondering, in yoga, asana means the poses and postures used during yoga. Vinyasa is a type of yoga where you do a series of poses in a row. Chaturanga refers to a specific kind of pose. Sort of like learning a new language, huh?

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

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Little Changes Can Have Big Impact on Your Health

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Submitted by aduranplazola on

As we age, our bodies need more attention to stay fit. Most of us get busy, and our health becomes a casualty of a long “To Do” list and limited time. It happens. You can’t miss your work event, your child’s project has to be done, your family wants dinner and the laundry doesn’t wash itself. So, what do you do? You skip a workout, opt for a quick unhealthy meal. Before you know it, these exceptions become the routine.

You know the choices you make today impact your long-term health, so you decide to get healthy. You jump into an exercise program and declare you are only going to eat healthy. Then a few days in, your body is so sore you can’t get out of bed, and you really want a pizza instead of cooking a fresh, healthy dinner, and you slip back into your old habits.

How can you break this cycle? “Start small. It is much easier to incorporate little changes one at a time as you work towards healthy habits,” said Avheet Hira, M.D., board-certified psychiatrist for Genesis Behavioral Health.

Tips for making healthy changes

1. Set short- and long-term goals. According to a study from researchers at Chicago Booth, immediate rewards for short-term goals are key motivators for staying on course to achieve long-term goals.

2. Start easy and increase exercise over time. We are not quoting studies on this one, just experience. If you jump right into a hard workout and cannot finish it, you can deflate your motivation. More importantly, you can easily hurt yourself. Take your time and increase workouts as your body grows stronger. Plus, running longer or lifting more as your workout builds will boost your confidence and motivation.

3. Replace one unhealthy item in your diet at a time. This could be drinking water instead of a soda. Having an apple instead of a candy bar. Or replacing takeout with a healthy home-cooked meal. Wonder how much of a difference it can make? Replacing one can of Coke a day with water will save you over 50,000 calories in one year.

4. Celebrate milestones. Staying fit takes work and deserves occasional rewards. If ice cream is your go-to snack, and you give it up for a month, treat yourself to a movie or something else you enjoy.

When you are ready to get healthy, talk to your doctor before starting your exercise routine to make sure it is safe.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

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5 Healthy Snacks Guaranteed to Satisfy

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Submitted by aduranplazola on

A little bit of sugar or salt here, an unhealthy bite of fat there. It’s so easy to nibble on tasty snacks throughout the day that are unhealthy, contribute to weight gain and affect the way you feel. Instead of continuing to feed that bad habit, the next time you’re about to reach for a high-calorie or high-fat snack, try one of these satisfying, healthy alternatives instead.

1. Spread cheer – and hummus

If the phrase, “Eat your vegetables” still echoes in your mind from childhood, someone was giving you good advice. Fresh vegetables and fruit have so many beneficial vitamins, minerals and fiber – and they fill you up. Raw veggies not exciting enough? Instead of turning to a high-fat veggie dip, try them with hummus. “Trying a healthy new snack can help you savor every bite instead of mindlessly munching on unhealthy foods,” said Sarah Brauning, MS, RD, LD, CDCES, Genesis Diabetes & Nutrition Education.

2. Why rice is nice

Next time you’re craving the satisfying crunch of nachos, swap the chips for rice crackers and the cheese for a fresh veggie salsa. You’ll find many recipes online for fresh salsas that are low in sugars and salt and are super easy to make at home.

3. If you like being corny

Popcorn can be a great way to satisfy your inner snacker without significantly adding to your daily caloric intake – that is if you don’t drown your serving in oil and butter. Instead of loading on the fat, experiment with herb blends, lemon zest or other toppings like cocoa, chili powder, nutritional yeast or cinnamon.

4. Aw, nuts!

A handful of your favorite nuts – especially those that are raw or dry roasted – are a great snack that also help you fight the urge to eat too much between meals. Additionally, they’re rich in heart-healthy fats, high in fiber and contain other amazing stuff like magnesium, potassium and vitamin E.

5. Something brew-tea full

Sometimes you think you’re hungry, but if you pause for just a moment, you’ll realize it’s just thirst. Instead of popping the top of your favorite soft drink the next time your thirst needs quenching, try a low sugar alternative like coffee, tea, low-fat milk or fruit-infused water. If you’re craving carbonated sparkle, try seltzer or sparkling mineral water with a splash of fruit juice.

Sources:

https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/add-color/healthy-snacking

https://www.choosemyplate.gov/

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

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Mole mystery: Is it skin cancer?

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Submitted by aduranplazola on

Are you seeing spots? The average person has between 10 and 40 moles, though the number varies drastically. The number of moles that you have can change throughout your life, as new moles can develop, and some may disappear as you age. You can develop moles almost anywhere on your body, including your scalp and underneath your fingernails. But what exactly are they, and where do they come from?

Moles are small, colored spots made of melanocytes, which are cells that make the pigment of your skin. Usually these cells are evenly distributed across your skin, but moles appear when these cells occur in clusters, causing small areas of your skin to darken.

Though most moles are harmless, it is important to keep an eye on them in case they develop into abnormal moles, called dysplastic nevi, that have the possibility of becoming cancerous. It isn’t as hard as you might think to sharpen your skin detective skills and solve your own mole mystery.

You should visit a dermatologist yearly for a routine full-body skin examination. Your dermatologist will closely examine any moles on your skin and will likely biopsy any suspicious-looking growths. In between your annual examinations, you should also complete self-examinations, to watch for any changes to your skin and to assist in early detection of skin cancer, so that you can alert your doctor if there are any changes.

 

Use the ABCDE method to remember what to check for:

A – Asymmetry

B – Border Irregularity

C – Color Change

D – Diameter

E – Evolving

 

Though most are harmless, some moles can develop into melanoma, which is skin cancer. Melanomas often appear suddenly and are dark and fast-growing. You should also let your doctor know if you have a mole that is painful, itching, burning, inflamed, oozing or bleeding, as these symptoms can also be a sign of melanoma. When you do your self-examination, make sure you check your entire body, as moles can appear anywhere. Don’t forget to check around your ears, scalp, and underarms; underneath breasts, buttocks and genitals; bottoms of your feet, between toes; and under your nails. Don’t forget to remove any polish before doing a self-exam or visiting your dermatologist.

 

To protect your skin and avoid skin cancer, particularly if you have several moles, it is crucial to be extra careful in the sun. Avoiding overexposure to UV light can reduce your chances of developing melanoma. Here are some tips:

· Stay in the shade between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., when UV rays are strongest.

· Wear a hat and UV-blocking sunglasses to protect your face.

· Wear SPF 15 or higher sunscreen and reapply every few hours and after swimming.

· Avoid tanning beds.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

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Healthy Distraction

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Submitted by aduranplazola on

Here’s how you can put distraction activities into practice. If your mind continues to spiral with unhelpful thoughts, use distraction as an effective tool to knock out negativity. It’s important to note that a distraction activity must command your full attention to effectively reduce anxiety.

Reducing anxiety through activities

Remember when you were a kid and you threw a fit because you wanted the newest toy, and your parents distracted you by involving you in a new activity?

Well, good news. The same idea works for adults, too. It’s easy to do and doesn’t cost as much as a new gaming system for your child, either.

Here’s how you can put distraction activities into practice. If your mind continues to spiral with unhelpful thoughts, use distraction as an effective tool to knock out negativity. It’s important to note that a distraction activity must command your full attention to effectively reduce anxiety.

Give it a try. When an activity isn’t working well, reflect on why and how you could make it more attention grabbing in the future. Distraction activities can also help you feel happier, motivated, energized and combat boredom.

Here’s a checklist for healthy distraction activities. Check the ones you like along with adding your own ideas:

1. Browse mindfulness and meditation resources to try

2. Work on personal development through journaling

3. Search for healthy recipes

4. Plan your meals

6. Watch documentaries or comedy

7. Play on a trivia or games app

8. Learn basic yoga poses

9. Learn to play a musical instrument

10. Read a biography about someone who inspires you

11. Rediscover old music you liked as a teenager

12. Take free online nutrition course

13. Do a jigsaw puzzle

14. Make a list of goals for the year

15. Find a new podcast to listen to

16. Make a list of books you want to read this year

17. Take a free online drawing class

18. Search Facebook for local groups with volunteering opportunities

19. Do a workout video

20. Add your own distractions

Healthy Distractions, Reducing Anxiety through Activities
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Whipped cottage cheese breakfast bowl

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Submitted by aduranplazola on

Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein, low in fat, and high in calcium.

Whipping the cottage cheese takes it to a whole new level, so creamy and smooth and the perfect texture.  It makes this breakfast bowl feel like an indulgent treat this is healthy too.

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Whipped Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bowl

Makes 1 servings
Ingredients 
½ cup low fat or fat-free cottage cheese
¼ pomegranate
¼ cup blackberries
½ ounce unsweetened coconut flakes
1 ounce hazelnuts
*Have fun and experiment by adding your favorite fresh fruits and nuts.
Directions
In a small food processor or personal blender, pulse the cottage cheese until it is smooth and creamy, for about 2-3 minutes. 

Remove the seeds from the pomegranate and prepare the other toppings. Optional: toast coconut flakes and hazelnuts in a skillet over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.

Serve right away or keep in the fridge for up to 24 hours.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for about 24 hours. Whipped cottage cheese doesn't keep as long as un-whipped, so only whip what you plan to eat in the next 1-2 days.


Nutritional information (per serving) 
Serves 1

Calories 266
Fat 14.5g 
Saturated Fat 6g
Trans Fat 0g
Polyunsaturated Fat 1.1g
Monounsaturated Fat 6g
Cholesterol 5mg
Sodium 387mg
Potassium 153.5mg
Carbohydrates 18.8g
Fiber 5.6g
Sugar 11.6g
Protein 17.8g
 

Download the recipe

Love the recipe? Download the Whipped Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bowl (PDF)

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Whipped Cottage Cheese Breakfast Bowl

Cottage cheese is an excellent source of protein, low in fat, and high in calcium.

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Stretch to the limit

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Submitted by aduranplazola on

Chances are you probably feel stretched to the limit in your daily life, however, if you are not stretching regularly, you could be headed for an injury. Along with eating healthy, exercising and getting rest, stretching is another key activity to keep you flexible and can help your balance.

There are numerous stretches to focus on different body parts and a well-rounded routine is best. Regardless of the muscle or joint you are working on, follow the simple guidelines in this infographic to stay healthy.

Download the Stretch to the limit infographic (PDF)

Stretching Infographic

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

There are numerous stretches to focus on different body parts and a well-rounded routine is best. Regardless of the muscle or joint you are working on, follow the simple guidelines in this infographic to stay healthy.

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Practice Positivity | Eight Daily Activities

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Submitted by aduranplazola on

If you think your brain is wired to think negative thoughts – think again. Research shows that positive thinking can be learned with practice and used to protect against stress and depression, according to an article by Jane Brody in the New York Times.

 

“Neuroscience research shows we can retrain our brains to focus on the positive,” said Ajay Sharma, M.D., psychiatrist for Genesis Behavioral Health. While everyone experiences negative emotions, always giving into fear, sadness and anxiety can have detrimental effects on a person's mental and physical health, according to Richard Davidson, a neuroscientist and founder of the Center for Healthy Minds at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Those who recover slower from emotional setbacks have a higher risk of health problems than those who bounce back quicker.

 

Here’s the good news. Barbara Frederickson, a psychologist at the University of North Carolina, found the brain is "plastic" enough to generate new cells and pathways that could enable the brain to foster positive responses and lower individuals' risks for a variety of health problems.

 

The researchers found that participants increased positive emotions and had greater social connection after six weeks of compassion and kindness meditation training. They also improved function in one of the main nerves involved in controlling heart rate. After two weeks of training in kindness and compassion meditation, there was a change in the participants’ brain circuitry that is linked to an increase in certain positive social behaviors, such as generosity.

 

8 steps to positive thinking

1. Do good deeds for others. This not only brings happiness to other people, but it can help brighten your day too.

2. Build and nurture relationships. Strong social bonds with family or friends can improve a person's self-worth. These connections are also associated with better health outcomes and longer lives.

3. Set attainable goals. By setting out to achieve realistic goals, you can avoid the stress of falling short.

4. Embrace who you are. Learning to love your strongest qualities and attributes can help keep sadness at bay.

5. Practice resilience. Made a mistake? Don't sweat it. Instead, consider it an opportunity to grow and learn.

6. Let go. Don't let the past get in the way of your future. Stay focused on the present.

7. Learn something new. Taking up a sport or trying to learn a new language can help build self-confidence and resilience.

8. Appreciate your surroundings. Take a moment to look at the world around you and begin to appreciate all it has to offer.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

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Self-Tanner: How to avoid the orange glow

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Submitted by aduranplazola on

We all know the dangers of laying out in direct sunlight or jumping into the nearest tanning bed. So how do you achieve that perfect tanned glow without harmful ultraviolet rays? It sounds almost too good to be true, but sunless tanning can safely turn you freshly bronzed with just a dab of lotion or a spritz of spray. 

Before you reach for that miracle in a bottle, though, read on for the how-to’s of sunless tanning products. 

How it works 

Self-tanning products typically come in two forms: lotions and sprays. Most sunless tanning lotions are sold over-the-counter, while sprays can usually be found in professional salons and spas. 

The active ingredient in most of these lotions is dihydroxyacetone, or DHA, which temporarily darkens the color of the dead skin cells in the outermost layer. Like most tanning options, sunless tanning typically lasts just a few days before the skin returns to its normal color. 

Getting even results 

Before using any sunless tanning product, you’ll need to apply an exfoliator to your skin to remove any loose dead skin cells. This will allow the product to work the most effectively. 

When you’re ready to apply the tanning lotion, it’s best to put it on in sections, beginning on your torso and arms before moving to the next section. Use the least amount necessary; excessive use can result in that dreaded orange glow. Also, be sure to work the product onto your skin in a circular motion to ensure the lotion is applied evenly so you avoid streaks. And if you opt not to use gloves when applying the product, be sure to wash your hands immediately after to prevent any staining. 

Safety factors 

While the Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of DHA in sunless tanning products (as long as they are applied externally), it is not approved for use on certain parts of the face, including the eyes, nose and mouth. The FDA also recommends against the use of sunless tanning pills because they can potentially damage your eyesight, along with your liver and other vital organs. 

And remember that the active ingredients in sunless tanning lotions and sprays will not protect you against UV rays, so always use sunscreen on your self-tanned skin.

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

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