Bare Health

Wednesday 19 October 2016

Bare Health Holistics - Our Team of professional Therapists



A big hello to all of you. My name is Sandy and I would like to introduce myself as one of the Bare Health team and let you know about the service I am providing locally. 

Edify Psychological Services provides psychological therapies to people who would like to improve their emotional wellbeing. This might be in relation to difficulties such as depression or the broad range of problems relating to anxiety such as social anxiety, phobias, worry, post-traumatic stress etc. Some people find that early experiences are continuing to impact on their life and they would like help to work through this or self esteem and confidence might be creating obstacles. 

There are many reasons why people seek therapy but most report how valuable it is to be able to talk to someone who understands in a confidential and safe environment. For some it can be life-changing.

I am an experienced, accredited CBT therapist and a registered psychotherapist which means I am able to work with you flexibly. If you have discussed psychological therapies with your GP you may be aware that there can be a lengthy wait and choice of therapy can be limited. You can invest in yourself and take the necessary steps to overcome your difficulties without delay.

For more information about areas of expertise and my background please visit my website edify-psychological-services.co.uk. 

Or if you would like to call me for a confidential, informal chat I can be contacted on 
07977 013194

I look forward to speaking to you soon.

Sandy Juric

Wednesday 28 September 2016

The Power of Forgiveness and Unconditional Love to Heal Our Emotional Wounds



I’ve learned these past few years that what we ‘believe’ to be ‘the truth’ is never written in stone. I’ve been cracked wide open, bought to my knees on more than one occasion and when I get back up I realise I am stronger and wiser than before I fell. So, I’m seeing life’s challenges through a different lens these days. Unconditional love has been a difficult one for me. I realise in order for this to become a ‘reality’ ‘Ego’s’ have to take a back seat and let the soul do the driving; and the Ego doesn’t make a good back seat driver! The Ego just wants to protect, so we don’t get hurt or disappointed but I’ve realised that to truly keep your heart open (even when it’s been broken through untruths, disappointments and betrayals) is a gift from God. To truly forgive, to be open and vulnerable, we get to experience the full breadth of what it is to be human; to feel, to love, to be angered, to be let down, upset, frustrated....to feel. When we close our hearts we are unable to connect with our souls. Our soul is where the unconditional love for each other resides. I believe the soul holds our blueprints, ‘the truths’ of who we really are. To lovingly want the best for another, for them to truly experience happiness and reduce suffering, even in the midst of these lower self emotions, this is my understanding of to love unconditionally.

I’ve learned it’s easy to practice unconditional love for those who meet our needs; who are kind, generous, fun loving, easy going and sensitive human beings. We can easily extend this love to children who we accept are on a ‘learning pathway’. So, why do we struggle with each other as adults?

Why do we struggle to extend this love to human beings who are not kind, loving and generous?
What stops US being kind, loving and generous? Is this not the ultimate test afterall?

We’re not just trading are we? Are we?

What stops us from extending our love to them too?

Can we not accept that we are all on this ‘learning pathway’ from cradle to grave? Just because we reach a certain age milestone or make it through adolescence to adulthood doesn’t mean we have ‘done’ with the learning. We learn ‘through relationship’. We’re always learning. Why do we struggle to extend our compassion to our adult counterparts who may be struggling with some aspect of ‘adult life’?  Are we compassionate enough with ourselves as adults?

We all have habitual patterns of behaving, ways of being that we have learned into being. Some of these behaviours help us to navigate our way through life with greater ease; some of them mean we tend to get in our own way. If we never see the ‘Man in the Mirror’; if we never truly see ourselves as we are we do not have the opportunity to grow into the finest version of ourselves. We spend money, time and effort on our fancy packaging when the real work is needed in producing a better gift. As I like to say, ‘No amount of fancy packaging can disguise a shit gift’. A polished turd is still a turd at the end of the day.

Our souls are crying out to be heard, to be listened to. Let me help you heal. They are sick of the Ego over-reacting to every slight, every perceived attack, the Ego of late appears to have gone into over-drive. We have lost the ability to laugh at ourselves and our earthly predicament. The laughing Buddha has it right. Don’t take life too seriously....it’s not like we’re getting out alive is it? We learn from each other. We can become growth agents for each other if we open to this distinct possibility instead of shutting down immediately anything that even slightly whiffs of as ‘criticism’ of our characters. When somebody pushes our buttons it could be because they intend to be mean. If you’ve checked out their intention and you trust the person then maybe, just maybe, this is the time, this IS the opportunity to go within, to do the inner work.

Forgiveness as with compassion has to start with ourselves. When we stop judging ourselves so harshly for any perceived ‘failures’ or mistakes we can be kinder and more loving towards other human beings who also make ‘mistakes’ on their own learning pathways. I read somewhere that doing something ‘wrong’ once is a mistake, twice is a decision but I’m not so certain I believe this anymore. Some students are more astute than others. I liken it to maths back in school. I could get mathematic principles EVENTUALLY but it seemed to take a little more explaining from the teacher, whilst others in my class were flying through the work from the off. And so I’m thinking that if life is a school for learning, and if we all have an individual programme of study does it not stand to reason that some will be faster learners than others?


Maybe it’s this ‘keeping the heart open’ thing I’ve been practicing. Whenever I have my buttons pressed and my Ego wants to jump to my defence and retaliate I keep hearing the words of Michael Singer in ‘The Untethered Soul’ – ‘Don’t close’. I’m still learning with this one, and I’m still not achieving it sometimes, I am only human.  So, this got me thinking....our greatest teachers in life ARE the ones who are mean to us, treat us unkindly, unfairly as these are the ones who teach us most about compassion, kindness and unconditional love. I’d like us all to be kind, compassionate and loving human beings but suppose we can only elevate our consciousness by being presented with these people, situations and circumstances on the Earth plane.

Just suppose we ARE all actors on the world stage, that we’re playing our parts perfectly for the evolution of each other’s souls...Actually, if this was the case there is nothing to forgive...only gratitude to give. Maybe this is when the forgiveness is for us; for reacting in the old habitual way and not being able to create a bigger space between stimulus and response.  Fear prevents love from being received or extended. Our fear of rejection often means we are unable to express ourselves to each other lovingly and so we close. ‘Don’t close’.....’Don’t close’ screams Michael Singer...’But I need to protect me’ screams my Ego back, ‘I may get hurt’. I’ve realised I may indeed get hurt, whether I close or remain open so from now on I’m taking the chance on remaining open. This is my intention....I’ll let you know how I get on x


Lisa Barlow is Bare Health's resident Personal Development Coach and creator & facilitator of the hugely successful and inspiring 'Power of the Journal' Workshops held regularly at Bare Health.

If you would like to attend one of Lisa's workshops or alternatively book a 'one to one' session then please do call Bare Health on 01260 408413.

Tuesday 9 August 2016

HEALTHY TIPS FOR FUN IN THE SUN!

The Summer months have arrived and that means for many of us it’s holiday time, a chance to escape, wind down and set aside the stresses of day to day life. A time when we become more active, focusing on increasing fitness, toning up and setting the intention to shift those few extra pounds we gained over the winter. This is the season when we want to feel good in that new bikini. It’s a time when we become more health conscious. And whether or not you choose to holiday in the UK or Travel Abroad, keeping in good health is vital if we want to avoid those holiday ailments and the pre holiday stresses!


Hydrate! Hydrate! Hydrate!

As the days become warmer and our activity levels rise, keeping adequately hydrated is vital. It is recommended that we drink at least 1.5L of water daily. The more we perspire in hot weather, the more fluid we lose and so the more water we need to put back in. Alcohol intake is an important factor to take into consideration too. Although those cocktails at a friend’s garden party may be delicious, use good judgement – alcohol strips the body of important electrolytes and hydrating qualities – so a good tip is to have a few glasses of water in between drinks – keeping alcoholic beverages to a minimum. The added bonus of drinking more water – it moisturises the skin leaving it softer and your hair shinier, whilst your body is able to perform better during physical activity.

Foods to Cool

According to Chinese Medicine, just as our bodies are designed to respond to changes in light and dark, so do our tastes and appetites respond to seasonal shifts in climate & temperature. During hotter weather we naturally crave refreshing food such as healthy green salads, melon, strawberries & oranges. “Light & Cooling” are key words to remember when choosing health boosting summer foods. These foods will help cool you down and are easy to digest: Cucumber, water melon, mango, grapes and strawberries. Bitter greens and vegetables help strengthen the heart & intestine and also help clear heat from the body. Green Vegetables are also very cleansing. Try to include asparagus, chicory, watercress, Bitter endive, radicchio, dandelion, spinach, cabbage, artichoke, Pea sprouts and green beans. Seasonal fruits abundant in health boosting vitamins are also worth adding to your shopping basket – look out for cherries, apples, peaches, apricots and wild berries such as blueberries, blackberries & raspberries.

Protect Your Skin

 For many years now we have been advised to cover up and reduce our exposure to the Suns harmful rays. However, research now suggests that there are increased health benefits to limited sun exposure. We need a certain amount of sunlight on our skin for the body to synthesise Vitamin D, an important vitamin involved in immune support, bone health & healthy skin to name but a few. According to the Harvard School of public health, worldwide, an estimated 1 billion people have inadequate levels of vitamin D in their blood. Deficiencies are now on the increase, especially in Northern European climates such as our own here in the UK. And in our efforts to block out the sun’s rays we layer on the sun cream, Harvard goes on to report, that this act alone can reduce our ability to absorb vitamin D by more than 90%

So, yes we need to spend at least 15 minutes a day exposed to direct sunlight, but not long enough to risk damaging the skin. Our skin is our largest organ and so should be treated with care. There are a number of organic & natural sun creams now available (in good health shops) which offer good protection, yet are free of harmful chemical ingredients .Vitamin D supplements can also make up for any shortfall we can’t get from the sun.


Certain health supplements have also shown to have a protective role during sun exposure, ‘Astaxanthin’ is one of them, a carotenoid that may help to protect the skin from UV damage. In addition, ‘Pycnogenol’ (French Maritime Pine Bark) helps improve skin elasticity and smoothing during the ageing process as well as protecting the skin from the harmful effects of the sun. Pycnogenol has also been shown to aid the circulatory system and may be particularly beneficial in minimising the risk of developing blood clots on long haul flights.

And if you over do the sun bathing, then, the healing properties of the Aloe Vera plant must not be overlooked. Aloe Vera gel is fantastic for helping to soothe and cool sunburn, whilst helping to heal & moisturise damaged skin. An absolute holiday essential! The homeopathic remedy Cantharis can also help ease sunburn. It can be all too easy when we go away to get just a little more sun than we bargained for and if you are unlucky enough to get a dose of sunstroke then the homeopathic remedy Belladonna is good to have at hand.

A tincture made from Stinging nettles (urtica) is also a remedy that has been traditionally used for easing itchy skin conditions and as a natural antihistamine. It has particular value in easing the symptoms of Prickly Heat.

Your Holiday Survival Kit

Holidays can be fun but also sometimes full of new and unusual activities that the day after can leave you waking stiff, aching and unable to walk.  Help is at hand with a few doses of the homeopathic remedy, Arnica 30c.  Arnica is good for soothing bruises and easing tired and painful muscles after strenuous activity allowing you to enjoy the rest of your holiday.  It is great for jetlag too.
When travelling abroad it is often a good idea to pack a few remedies that you can have at hand should you get a dose of Travellers Tummy or other digestive problems. A good quality probiotic containing a good mix of beneficial bacteria is highly recommended, as is a digestive enzyme supplement that will help your digestive system to efficiently break down foods that your body may struggle to cope with. And should you pick up any nasty bugs or intestinal parasites whilst on your travels, then the herbs Pau d’arco and ‘Neem’ are particularly useful.
And talking of bugs, to keep those midges & mosquitos at arms length a few drops of citronella oil onto a few cotton wool pads placed around the holiday apartment can be a great help or a mosquito spray containing the herb ‘neem’ may help protect you from those nasty bites!

Finally for those of you who have a fear of flying – a dose of the Bach Flower Remedy ‘Mimulus’ or ‘Rescue Remedy’ is a handy option to have in your hand luggage & may just help ease those unwanted fears, leaving you with nothing to worry about other than your awaiting holiday destination, long summer days and warm nights, spending time in the outdoors engaging in your favourite pursuits & time to chill out with family & friends. 

What could be better? It’s truly time to leave the cold weather behind.

The content within this article is for information purposes only. If you are taking prescribed medication or undergoing any form of treatment please consult your GP before making any changes to your healthcare regime.

For more information or to chat to one of our advisors, please call Bare Health on 01260 408413. 


We are always happy to help.






Thursday 12 May 2016

Take a look at our Special In Store Offers!


Fabulous May Offers!

We have some fantastic offers in store at the moment. Here's a little selection to whet your appetite and a great opportunity to make some great savings! Whilst stocks last...

NATURES AID


WESTLAB EPSOM SALT 1KG

 50% OFF!

WAS £4.85 NOW £2.43

PROFUSION SPROUTED FOODS

 30% OFF!


WAS £3.99 NOW £2.79




WAS £ 2.69 NOW £1.88


WAS £6.69 NOW £4.68



WAS £3.99 NOW £2.79


KAIZEN LIVING SUPERFOODS

15% OFF ACROSS THE RANGE!



Latest product launches at Bare Health




What's New in store at Bare Health?

It's been a busy start to 2016 at Bare Health with lots of exciting events, promotions AND some exciting new products have also found their way onto our shelves :)

So, just in case you haven't had chance to pop by recently, here's a sneaky glimpse of what's new in store!

With it's harsh and remote landscapes, Siberia is one of the last few largely undiscovered territories in a world where nearly every other corner has been explored. Here, nature is powerful, unspoiled and wild. Herbs and plants from Siberia, that are able to survive in one of the most extreme environments on the planet, have developed powerful regenerating and antioxidant properties, offering unique health & beauty benefits for the hair and skin.



Natura Siberica, are the first certified organic cosmetic brand to harness the active ingredients in these wild plants and herbs to enhance our skin, hair and well being. With stockists including Harrods & Wholefoods Market we are thrilled to name Bare Health as one of the latest UK Stockists.



Created in 2007, Natura Siberica use herbs, plants, flowers and berries sourced from an unspoiled landscape, handpicked by local Siberian natives, respecting the natural growing cycles. With ingredients so pure, products in the Natura Siberica range have been awarded ECOCERT and ICEA certificates and the company is approved by COSMOS-Standard AISBL. Natura Siberica pay premium prices for wild, manually harvested herbs and plants, in order to support small Siberian Tribes and their communities bringing positive changes to the lives of the native people of Siberia.


Here at Bare Health we love to support local companies and stock their wonderful products! Our latest local Hero is 'Cheshire Tea Company' based in Macclesfield. Who doesn't love a good brew? Regulars to the Congleton Food & Drink Festival may have sampled and no doubt purchased these delightful teas, however we are proud to have become a permanent supplier in town, boasting a wide range of these speciality teas, a number of which have been awarded 'Great Taste 2015' Awards.


To date, our best sellers are: Mint Chocolate Rooibos, Cherry Sencha Green Tea, Matcha Green Tea Powder, Vanilla Rooibos and Cheshire Breakfast. My personal favourites? Having never been a fan of Rooibos Tea, I must say that the Mint Chocolate Rooibos has well and truly converted me. The Cherry Sencha Green Tea is also a delicious and refreshing brew too and yet I'm also a huge fan of the Cream Earl Grey. I do like a bit of variety...a tea for every mood! So, what are you waiting for? Get that kettle on and sit down to a heavenly cup of Cheshire Tea!





Nature's Plus All Natural Vegetarian Protein. 


Designed to bring you the highest quality organic, vegetarian proteins available. Formulated with a special energy liberating enzyme blend for maximum bioavailability. This enzyme helps to break down the plant fiber and other constituents to unlock the full health bosting potential of protein in each product. Natures Plus Protein powders are all organic, non-GMO as well as gluten, soy and yeast free. Suitable for low-glycemic diets. These high protein energy powders deliver ALL of the amino acids your body needs.

All sources of complete protein support the maintainence and growth of muscles throughout the body, however, there are some unique benefits to each Natures Plus Organic Protein:

  • Pea Protein - Nutritional support for healthy weight management and appetite control as well as muscle maintainence
  • Sunflower Protein: Nutritional support for muscle growth, Muscle Strength, Heart Health, Reproductive tissue function, Hormone production and brain function.
Can be added easily to smoothies, cold juice, milk and dairy free milks. 






Oncologist Approved for use during chemo/radiotherapy

Allergy certified
May help with Eczema/Psoriasis symptoms
Vegan friendly
Against Animal Testing
Contains Healing Organic Oil

OliveAll Natural is 100% hypoallergenic certified skin care range without perfume or fragrance. Suitable for those with very sensitive skin, allergy sufferers and those undergoing chemo/ radiotherapy treatment.

For further information on any of these products please do pop into Bare Health, Congleton or call the store on 01260 408413.










Wednesday 4 May 2016

Natural Ways To Ease The Seasonal Sneeze!

Natural Ways to Ease the Seasonal Sneeze!

After a very long winter, it seems that Spring has now finally arrived. For many of us, it is a time of year that brings new life and renewed energy, lighter mornings and nights and nature itself truly starts to awaken once more. We start looking forward to the Summer, and begin to plan our holidays, time with friends & family and long days in the outdoors. We could liken it to our emergence from Hibernation! However, for some of us, the return of Spring also brings the misery of Hayfever Season!

Usually encountered in the spring and early summer, hayfever it is part of the group of health conditions known as’ allergic rhinitis’ – an allergic reaction to airborne substances which lead to inflammation in the lining of the nose, throat and eyes. People prone to the condition tend to develop the problem during their teenage years, and although the condition lessens in severity with age, it can certainly linger well into late adulthood. In the main, these airborne substances are pollens from grass, trees or flowers. In temperate climates such as in the UK and Ireland, pollen levels increase dramatically in spring as nature comes to life, and as the weather warms up and we head into the summer months, grass, bushes, trees and other plants grow and develop in a coordinated fashion. In this way, pollen levels are highest during spring and early summer

The main symptoms of hayfever are experienced in the eyes, nose and throat. These commonly include:
·         Sneezing
·         Itchy or runny nose
·         Irritation at the back of the throat
·         Itchy or runny eyes
·         Blocked nose
·         Dry cough 

There is evidence that hayfever is on the rise, with one in five of the UK population now suffering with the condition, a number that has trebled in the last 20 years and alarmingly, still on the increase. Jean Emberlin, Scientific Director of Allergy UK explains

“Around 16 million people in the Britain suffer from hayfever and the figure is expected to rise to 30 million within the next two decades. 95% of hayfever sufferers are allergic to grass pollen. One in four is allergic to birch and one in five allergic to oak”

She goes on to say,

“there is substantial evidence from pollen monitoring records and from vegetation surveys to show the timing of some of the pollen seasons has been changing in the UK and across Europe over the last few decades” this is in addition to longer pollen seasons and increasing pollen loads. Air pollution is also contributing to this increase, acting as an irritant to the respiratory system making more people susceptible to symptoms whilst indirectly interacting with pollen allergens and making them more potent."



This is not the news that millions of UK hayfever sufferers want to hear! The bottom line is - hayfever is now becoming an all year round war, with the arrival of Spring posing the biggest battle!

So, what can we do to ‘arm’ ourselves and help minimise the effects of pollen on our health?

There are numerous over the counter remedies that offer some relief, antihistamines, decongestants, nasal sprays, eye drops and steroids are just a few examples. However, if the latest research is anything to go by, some of these over the counter and prescribed remedies need to be approached with caution. A recent study from the Indiana University School of Medicine has found that a certain group of over the counter and prescribed medication, hayfever medication included, could be linked to the development of dementia and Alzheimers in older adults. The scientists have found a link between the prolonged use of ‘anticholinergenics’ (which include some hayfever treatments) and reduced brain size and poorer cognitive performance, whilst the drug users also had lower levels of glucose metabolism in the brain – a biomarker for brain activity that leads to Alzheimers.
With this startling evidence in mind...Are there more natural options available to help alleviate the symptoms of Hayfever? In short, yes. Fortunately, there are certain nutrients and botanical medicines that can provide primary therapy or be used in combination with conventional methods and they might just make all the difference between enjoying the spring and summer months, spending it sneezing, or worse...indoors!

Supporting Hayfever...naturally!


Pycnogenol


 Otherwise known as French Maritime Pine Bark, Pynogenol, is a nutritional supplement which offers a range of extensive and proven health benefits, one of which is to reduce inflammation. This natural process is a response to external factors such as air pollutants such as dust or pollen. Pycnogenol contains a rich blend of of antioxidants known as bioflavanoids, some of which are also found in fresh fruit and vegetables. Its antioxidant activity is approxiametely 30 times stronger than Vitamin E and 50 times stronger than vitamin C. A double-blind placebo-controlled study showed that Pycnogenol supplementation can improve allergy symptoms when started at least five weeks before allergy season. Subjects who received Pycnogenol five to eight weeks before allergy season exhibited 35% less eye allergy symptoms and 20% less nasal allergy symptoms. Those who showed the greatest reduction in allergy symptoms were individuals that began Pycnogenol supplementation seven to eight weeks prior to the allergy season. 

Quercetin


Research supports the use of Quercetin as a natural anti histamine, stabilising the mast cells which release all the cause of the misery. Certain drugs can block the effect of histamine, but quercetin inhibits the release, without any side effects. Quercetin is a flavonoid (plant pigments that give fruit, vegetables and flowers their colour) and found in a wide variety of herbs and vegetables, for example onions, apples, parsley, sage and green tea.Olive oil, grapes, dark cherries, and dark berries such as blueberries, blackberries and bilberries are also high in quercetin. It is now widely available as a food supplement.

Vitamin C


Vitamin C has been found to exert a number of effects on histamine. It appears to prevent the secretion of histamine by white blood cells and increase its detoxification. Histamine levels were found to increase exponentially as ascorbic acid (vitamin C) levels in the plasma decreased. Vitamin C also supports the Immune system and may also have anti-inflammatory effects. Camu Camu, an Amazonian berry like fruit, is a fantastic source of vitamin C. In 1957 the Instituto de Nutricion in Peru undertook the first nutritional analysis of the fruit and found that the acidic fruit was jam packed with vitamin C, containing 30 to 50 times the vitamin C of oranges! Since this initial analysis, many more have been undertaken and have shown promising anti-aging, cognitive, anti-inflammatory, immune, vision, and antiviral benefits. The fruit has a powerful concentration of antioxidants also. Camu Camu can be found in powder form in selected, independent health stores and can be mixed easily with water or smoothies.

Nettle


Nettles (urtica) are especially good if you have high histamine levels & suffer from ‘prickly heat’, they work as a blood tonic and help reduce histamine levels. They also contain Silica which may help strengthen lung tissue. Nettle can be found in the form of tincture, tablets or tea bags.

Euphrasia (Eyebright)



The Homeopathic Remedy ‘Euphrasia’ (Eyebright) is also an effective remedy to ease the irritation of itchy, inflamed eyes and a consultation with a qualified Homeopath will ensure you get a remedy tailored to your unique symptoms.

Luffa


Luffa is a useful herb if symptoms manifest around the eyes and nose. Swift in its effect, it appears to deal with both blocked and runny noses, as well as watery and itchy eyes and a tickly throat. As it is taken internally, it is a good option for those who wear contact lenses and can’t use eye drops. It isn’t contraindicated with other medication, including other hayfever medication.

Spirulina


Spirulina a blue green algae often referred to as a ‘superfood’ due to the abundance of nutrients contained within, however research has also shown it to be effective in tackling some of the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. A double blind, placebo controlled study, evaluated the effectiveness and tolerability of spirulina and discovered that it was clinically effective on allegic rhinitis when compared with a placebo. Spirulina consumption significantly improved the symptoms and physical findings compared with placebo including nasal discharge, sneezing, nasal congestion and itching. Spirulina can be purchased as an organic, raw freeze dried powder for greatest benefits and absorption or in tablet form.

Local Honey


Regular consumption of raw, local honey during the hayfever season may also offer significant relief. A randomized controlled study conducted by the International Archives of Allergy and Immunology, showed that patients who consumed honey had significantly better control of their allergy symptoms than those on conventional allergy medications. Local honey works to relieve symptoms because it contains local pollen that is causing your allergies. A couple of tablespoons each day may relieve your itchy, watery eyes, congestion and the general symptoms of hay fever

Probiotics


Ongoing research is also showing promising results for the use of probiotics in the prevention and treatment of allergic rhinitis, one study highlighting a reduction in number of symptoms and another indicating that they may reduce the number of allergic episodes. With all of the other well known benefits of probiotics on offer, it may be worthwhile adding a quality probiotic supplement to your daily regimen.

All of these remedies can be found at a quality Independent Health Store near you. For additional tips on how you can ease the sneeze this hayfever season why not drop into Bare Health, Congleton? Our experienced team will be more than happy to offer nutritional support and guidance on how to source the highest quality supplements to receive the full benefits.

The content contained within this article is solely for information purposes. Always remember to consult your GP or healthcare professional if taking prescribed medication or undergoing any form of treatment prior to embarking on any new supplement regimen. If you have any concerns about prolonged use of ‘anticholinergenic’ then please approach your GP for advice.




References:

http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S132389301530719X
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3314669/
http://naturalsociety.com/camu-camu-berry-benefits-vitamin-c-health-gem/
http://news.medicine.iu.edu/releases/2016/04/anticholinergics-brain-effects.shtml

http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/condition/allergic-rhinitis

Tuesday 1 March 2016

Finding Balance, Finding Self




I was once asked by a client, “When will I know my Homeopathy treatment is complete?”  A simple question maybe – surely when the digestive complaint she came with, felt better.  Or maybe not.  The digestive complaint was better at her first follow up appointment a month later.  Yet there she was at her third appointment exploring other issues around sleep and her emotional health.  As a holistic therapy, Homeopathy takes account of all levels of health; physical, mental, emotional and even spiritual if that is an area you wish to explore.  A problem with her digestion had brought her to see me.  Yet in taking her case, she had also identified a whole range of other health issues that she wished to improve; such as sleep and anxiety.  My goal always is to empower the client to raise their awareness about their own health needs.  It is also a good question to keep reviewing whatever your treatment of choice. 


However it raises the question “what is good health?”  The answer is typically different for each of us.  Just as Homeopathy individualises its approach to your health and the remedy given, what good health means to you, will differ from the next person.  If you have a chronic pain problem such as Rheumatoid Arthritis then feeling healthy may be a day free of pain.  For someone recently bereaved, then good health may be that they can move forward and function each day, without their loved one.

For me, good health is all about balance. Feeling in balance can mean having the energy and vitality to live life to the full.  Being out of balance is when some aspect of my life is limited.  This may be physical and consist of a range of symptoms causing ill health.  Or it may be felt emotionally, feeling too anxious to go to a social event or lacking confidence at work. 

Our ability to regain our balance when life pressures increase or the unexpected happens is also an indicator of our good health.   

Homeopathy and Bach Flower Essences are the two modalities I use as a Holistic Therapist and to maintain my own health.  Both therapies provide time to share your story, have it objectively observed and give the opportunity to self-reflect.  My aim is to facilitate you to write your own agenda for good health.  Edward Bach suggested, “Know thyself, Heal thyself” as a central tenet to working with the Bach Flower remedies.  That for me is the key to good health.  As you build your awareness of self, using Homeopathy and Bach Flower remedies, so you find your own answers, such as knowing when your treatment is complete.

For me the therapies are part of my life time journey.  I may go months or years without needing to see my Homeopath or Bach Flower Practitioner.  Then I find myself finding it more difficult to regain my balance and I know it is time to take stock.  Finding balance is essential for my health.  Is it for you?  Homeopathy or Bach Flower essences and a Therapist to facilitate may be one solution on your journey to finding it.


Jane Bowdenleigh is an experienced Registered Homeopath (RSHom) and Bach Flower Practitioner (BFRP).  She holds regular weekday and Saturday clinics at Bare Health in Congleton, Cheshire.  For more information contact Jane on 07740 798595.  For more information about the extensive range of Holistic Therapies available at Bare Health ring 01260 408413.



Wednesday 24 February 2016

Love Your Heart - Supporting National Heart Awareness Month


Love your Heart

This February marks National Heart Month, an important time to raise awareness of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD), its prevalence and the many ways in which we can help prevent it. We all know of someone who is affected by it and very sadly those loved ones who we have lost to it. This month, why not take a little time to consider your own risks and what small changes you can make to keep your heart healthy? With just a little effort on each of our parts and of course, a willingness to change, a huge difference could be made in the incidence of one of the nations’ biggest killers.

There are 7 million people living with CVD in the UK, a number set to rise with an ageing population. New statistics from the British Heart Foundation reveal that Cardiovascular disease causes more than a quarter (27%) of all deaths in the UK or around 155,000 deaths each year, that’s an average of 425 people a day! And if you’re a little unsure of what Cardiovascular Disease is, the British Heart Foundation describes it as an ‘umbrella’ term for all the diseases of the heart and circulation including coronary heart disease, hypertension, angina, heart attack, congenital heart disease and stroke. It's also known as heart and circulatory disease

Did you know that the heart is the hardest working muscle in the body and on average contracts 100,000 times a day? It certainly requires a lot of energy to keep it going and in order to be able to keep a steady energy production and its strong contractile force the heart is dependent on a vitamin like substance and enzyme co factor called CoQ10 (Ubiquinone). CoQ10 is found in most body tissues but is particularly abundant in the heart, liver, Kidney and lungs. It is an integral part of the mitochondria, the energy powerhouse of our cells. Without CoQ10, the food that we eat cannot be converted into energy. In addition to its vital role in energy production CoQ10 it also serves as an efficient antioxidant and helps reduce damage to our blood vessels. Although a simple molecule, it is essential for the survival for human beings being involved in almost all energy related metabolic processes.  However, between the ages of 20 – 80 our levels of Co Q10 in the body reduce by a staggering 60%! People with heart failure invariably have depleted levels of this vital nutrient whilst the use of statin medication has also been shown to negatively impact natural Co Q10 levels, which may be the cause of associated fatigue, muscle pain and weakness.

Several recent studies have documented Q10’s role in the treatment and prevention of heart failure and elevated blood pressure. It has also been shown that Co Q10 can improve the heart’s contractile force and prevent atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries). KiSel -10, a Swedish study proved that CoQ10 combined with the mineral selenium can reduce cardiovascular mortality among elderly people. The five year, peer reviewed, double blind, randomised and placebo controlled study showed that those treated with a combination of 2 x 100mg of a patented form of CoQ10 and a 200mg selenium had a 54% lower risk of dying from Cardiovascular disease. Whilst one of the most significant double blind randomised placebo controlled studies of CoQ10 ever conducted is the 2014 Q-SYMBIO study. Patients were randomly assigned to either a 3x100mg of a patented Q10 supplement daily or a placebo. Results indicated that there were 43% fewer heart related deaths in the CoQ10 group compared to the placebo group. Heart muscle performance also improved and fewer side effects noted. Overall the study demonstrated that heart patients given daily supplements of the patented CoQ10 formula with conventional therapies have significantly improved survival.

CoQ10 Supplementation may be one approach to consider for healthy heart support, with the potential of great benefits, but what other changes can we make on a day to day basis?

Natural Food Sources of CO Q 10


We can obtain a certain level of CoQ10 from our diet. Good sources include meat (mainly hearts and offal), oily fish, whole grain, nuts and plant oils. However, according to Jurgen Vormann a German professor and nutrition scientist, an average diet only provides around 2-3mg of CoQ10 on a daily basis. The major source of Q10 is that which our bodies produce naturally, however, as previously mentioned, our Q10 levels diminish with age, stress, certain diseases and the use of certain medication. Our daily requirements also vary from person to person. Fortunately, supplements may go some way to help to compensate for these reduced levels.

‘Prevention’ is certainly the best approach to minimising risk of developing Cardiovascular Disease. There is definitely a strong link between nutrition and heart health and by taking steps towards making small dietary and lifestyle changes you can make a significant impact in lowering your risk.

 Heart Healthy Tips

  • Consume a diet low in saturated and hydrogenated fats, harmful cholesterol, salt, processed and refined foods high in trans fats and sugar.
  • Eat more high fibre foods
  • Increase your intake of Omega 3 Oils ‘good fats’ – try to eat oily fish twice a week or consider a quality Omega 3 fish oil supplement. Add flaxseed or Chia seeds to your meals.
  • Eat wholegrains, nuts, seeds, fruit and vegetables. Brazil nuts, Beetroot, Garlic, pomegranate, bilberries are especially good for their ‘heart healthy’ benefits.
  • Exercise regularly and stay active where possible. Start with just 10 – 20 minutes a day and work this into your daily routine.
  • Keep body fat low. Obesity is a known risk factor for CVD.
  • Take steps to reduce your stress levels.
  • Be aware of your family history of Cardiovascular Disease – a strong family history will increase your risk.
  • Keep Alcohol intake to a minimum, stay within the recommended intake and try to ensure you have a number of days throughout the week ‘Alcohol free’
  • Quit smoking – those who smoke are twice as likely to have a heart attack. It also causes damages to the lining of arteries, whilst ‘passive’ smoking (inhaling second hand smoke) is a cause of heart disease in non smokers.
 


FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY: BUY YOUR SPECIAL OFFER CoQ10 Starter pack for only £9.99 (RSP£14.65) at Bare Health In store & Online.


For more information on how you can support your heart and circulatory health, naturally, do pop into Bare Health, Congleton and speak to one of our experienced advisors.

The information contained within this article is solely for information purposes. Always remember, if taking prescribed medications or undergoing any form of medical treatment, always consult your GP or healthcare professional prior to implementing any new regime. 

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Pernille Lund Q10 – for better health and a long life