Music Therapy for Pain and Relaxation

I learned about music therapy while my sister-in-law, Merilee was living in a full care nursing facility. Merilee experienced the symptoms of dementia and even as her memory faded she could sing every word (in tune) to a familiar song. She had a lovely melodious voice and would sing along with the visiting musicians.

My brother, Gary and I attended many of the concerts held at the facility. We would witness patients who were asleep in their wheel chairs become fully alert when the music started. First their feet would begin tapping to the beat of the music followed by smiling, clapping, and singing.

Merilee's love for music inspired a staff member to advise Gary to hire a music therapist for Merilee. Each week the therapist would bring various instruments for her to play and they would sing familiar songs together. Merilee was always excited to see her musical friend.

I do a lot of research, write articles, and receive information and test studies regarding chronic pain, chronic fatigue, and fibromyalgia.

Recently I received a copy of an article that was written by Shivani Lalloo and published on February 28, 2014 by ProHealth on-line magizine. "The Effects of Music Therapy on Fibromyalgia." In the article Shivani cited the following comment from neurologist Mark Jude Tramo, M.D., Ph.D., director of Harvard's Institute for Music and Brain Science in Boston and a faculty member of the university's Mind/Brain/Behavior Initiative:

"We believe music can cause neurochemical changes in specific parts of the brain that are related to the body's feel-good systems-for example, in pain-modulating neurotransmitters. In addition, music's auditory stimulation of the brain may cause cells to release endorphins, which suppress pain, and immunoglobulin {antibiotics}, which help fight disease."

It has come to my attention that music therapy is not a new phenomenon. While researching this topic I learned about a 1789 unsigned article, which was published in the Columbian Magazine entitled "Music Physically Considered." Further, Dr. Benjamin Rush, a physician, psychiatrist, and professor was a strong proponent of using music to treat medical diseases. Two of his students Edwin Atlee and Samuel Mathew wrote medical dissertations on the therapeutic value of music in the early 1800s.

To my thrill I found a copy of the19-page dissertation written by Edwin Atlee entitled "An Inaugural Essay on the Influence of Music in the Cure of Diseases."- By Edwin A. Atlee, of Pennsylvania. I found his writing captivating with the flavor of Old English influence, wordiness, and humbleness.

The following are a few of Edwin Atlee's comments about music and its influence on the body:

• "Fascinating Power of Music."
• "Joy"
• "Music is to the mind, what opium is to the body, a DEVINE MEDICINE."
• "In the diseases of debility, we may suppose that lively sounds may afford a healthy stimulus to the body, invigorating it as a cordial or tonic medicine."

Edwin Atlee indicated in his introduction that his choice of subject may cause some to laugh and some to judge. Yet, he felt strongly that it should be written and was confident that it would spark further study and writings by others.

I also found the dissertation written by Samuel Mathew entitled "On the Effects of Music in Curing and Palliatating Diseases." Like Mr. Atlee, Mr. Mathew also writes in Old English. His dissertation leans heavily on the effects of music on the psychological traits of hypochondriasis and tonic mania. In this regard, Mr. Mathew points out the patient's perspective of music and the sounds that are pleasing to them. It is my opinion that his point is well taken; not all music is enjoyed by all people. Therefore, for music to have a positive effect on the body it most likely should be something that is pleasing to the ear.

Further research has shown that music, which is pleasing to the listener, may have the following benefits:

1. Altered mood
2. Increase endorphins, which suppress pain
3. Increase Immunoglobulin (antibodies, which fight off disease)
4. Improve sleep
5. Relieve muscle tension
6. Relieve stress hormones
7. Relieve emotional anxiety
8. Slower heart rate
9. Memory enhancement

I invite you to listen to, explore, and play with music.

• Notice how your body feels. (Calm, tense, excited, or something else.)
• Depending on the music, you might close your eyes and imagine the rhythm entering an achy or tense part of your body. Notice if it appears to be lessening the pain and/or tension of that area.
• Notice what emotions appear.
• Notice your energy level.

I welcome your comments and discoveries.

Wishing you Good Health and Best Days,

Melody Lutterman, ICF Trained and Certified Life Coach

Melody is an ICF (International Coach Federation) trained and certified Life Coach.She works with clients, like herself, that experience chronic pain and fatigue. Please contact her with your comments, questions, and/or discoveries at mel@valuableyou.com. Website: http://www.ValuableYou.com

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Dengue Fever: Symptoms, Treatment And Prevention

Dengue fever has become a major health concern today. Every year anywhere from 50 to 390 million people are infected with the disease. The number of dengue cases has risen dramatically since the 1960s. Today, dengue is a global health concern and is endemic to more than 110 countries. There is no commercially available vaccine for dengue and prevention is the only option. Preventive measures are directed at reducing mosquito populations and limiting exposure to mosquito bites.

Dengue is caused by the dengue virus. There are five serotypes of the virus. The first four serotypes are referred to as DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3 and DENV-4. The virus is transmitted by aedes mosquitoes. The principal vector is the A. aegypti mosquito. Mosquitoes which spread dengue generally bite during the day, particularly in the morning or evening. A single bite can result in infection.

Generally, a major proportion of the people infected with the dengue virus do not present any symptoms or show mild symptoms. Severe illness is observed only in 5% of the cases. The condition can be life threatening in a small proportion of the cases. The incubation period for dengue is 3 to 14 days. Characteristic symptoms of dengue include sudden fever, headache, eye pain, muscle and body pains and a measles-like rash. Dengue fever is also known as 'breakbone fever' due to the associated muscle and joint pains.

The course of dengue is divided into three phases: febrile, critical and recovery. The febrile phase lasts for two to seven days. Symptoms observed in this phase include high fever (above 40 C) and pain and headache. Nausea and vomiting may also be experienced. In 50-80% of the cases, body rashes are observed.

In some cases, the disease progresses to the critical stage. During this period, plasma leakage occurs leading to fluid accumulation in the chest and abdominal cavities. Depletion of fluid from the circulatory system and reduced blood supply to vital organs may also result. Dengue shock syndrome and dengue hemorrhagic fever are observed in less than 5% of all dengue cases. The critical phase occurs more commonly in children and your adults.

In the recovery phase, reabsorption of leaked fluid takes place. A second rash may present in the recovery phase. Fluid overload may also occur and cause reduced levels of consciousness or seizures in some cases. The feeling of fatigue will last for weeks.

There are no antiviral drugs to treat dengue. Treatment is aimed at maintaining proper fluid balance in the body and providing relief from the symptoms. Paracetamol is prescribed to control fever and reduce discomfort. Oral or intravenous rehydration is used to maintain proper fluid balance. Blood transfusion is prescribed to stabilize hematocrit.

There are no approved vaccines for dengue. However, work is ongoing on a vaccine and medications that target the dengue virus directly. Prevention is sought by reducing mosquito populations by eliminating breeding grounds and using pesticides and limiting exposure to bites using mosquito repellents and protective clothing.

For more information on dengue, visit http://www.dengue-info.com.

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Natural Treatment Options for Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids can be very painful and embarrassing. However, they are not very serious health concern. In fact, hemorrhoids are very common. People from all walks of life are prone to develop this condition. Studies indicate that almost 75% of all people will have hemorrhoids at least once in their lifetime. The risk of hemorrhoids increases with increasing age. 

In other words, you are most likely to develop hemorrhoids as you become older. Hemorrhoids are not considered a serious health risk. For most people, the condition will subside on its own within a few weeks. By taking proper measures such as increasing the dietary intake and taking laxatives, relief may come even early.

There are many treatment options for hemorrhoids and most of these work well. In normal circumstances, prescription medicines and medicated wipes will provide relief and symptoms will start improving within a week or so. Only in some cases, the condition becomes unmanageable and surgery may be required. There are many natural hemorrhoid treatments as well. Generally, these natural methods work equally well when compared to prescription medicines.

Natural treatments for hemorrhoids provide quick relief from the burning, irritation and discomfort associated with the disease. They also soothe the pain and help in the healing process. The main advantage of natural treatments if that they are safe to use and have no side effects. At the same time they are also inexpensive. Here are some of the common natural treatment options for hemorrhoids.

Bioflavonoids: Bioflavonoids are chemical substances found in many different types of foods. Citrus fruits such as lemons and oranges are a good source of bioflavonoids. Bioflavonoids provide relief from hemorrhoids by decreasing inflammation and making the blood vessels strong. Eating fruits rich in bioflavonoids will help you in preventing and obtaining relief from hemorrhoids. If you're not able to include foods containing bioflavonoids in your diet, can purchase bioflavonoids supplements.

Dietary fiber: Increasing the content of fiber in your diet will provide you with fast relief. Fiber makes the stools soft and also increases the bulk. This prevents excessive straining during bowel movements and prevents hemorrhoids. Some of the foods rich in dietary fiber include whole grains and vegetables. Dietary fiber supplements are also available. These provide better results.

Horse chestnut: Horse chestnut is one of the most popular natural treatments for hemorrhoids. It reduces inflammation and irritation very fast. It is to be taken as a tea. It is also available in the form of capsules.

For more information on hemorrhoids, visit http://www.hemorrhoids-info.com.

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How To Stop Smoking Forever!

Well that is a bold statement! But in 1991 on a cold winter day I found myself out on the fire escape in the freezing rain holding an umbrella, freezing cold but driven to smoke. I worked at a hospital-based treatment center at the time and they had just banned smoking from hospitals. Of course that seemed insane for our unit as probably 95% of drug and alcohol addicts smoke cigarettes. But I was compliant as I stood on the fire escape willing to go to any lengths to smoke that freezing January day.

Just for a little background - I started smoking when I was eleven. It is embarrassing to admit that, but my need to have a substance relieve me of how I felt started at a really young age. I always felt ashamed and guilty for smoking. I knew at 11 that I was doing something I shouldn't be doing; multiple times had I tried to quit, swear off, taken an oath, and prayed to quit smoking. Just like many people I had quit what felt like a thousand times. Sometimes it was a thought and sometimes I went a few days to only return to the bondage of cigarettes.

On this particular January day, I was pretty disgusted with myself. As I stood there freezing, taking my puffs, I realized I was chained to this stupid cigarette. This stupid white roll of tobacco owned my time, my money, my health, and my attention. I was angry at myself for not having more will power. When I returned inside, I commiserated with one of the counselors I worked with, and he told me what to do to solve my smoking problem forever. I was all ears as he shared this simple technique. He told me every time I lit a cigarette to thank God that he was removing the desire to smoke and to thank Him that I wouldn't be smoking much longer. Well, that seemed a little too simple but I thought, "What the heck?" So from that day forward every time I lit a cigarette I would say "Thank You, God, for removing the desire to smoke cigarettes; thank You that I will not be smoking much longer". Sometimes I would forget to thank Him as I was smoking, but I would just say it when I did remember no matter how long it had been since I had smoked. I would pull the cigarette out of the pack, look at it and state those words... "Thank You, God, for removing the desire to smoke cigarettes; thank You that I will not be smoking much longer".

One day I woke up and I knew I didn't smoke anymore. It is a pretty weird thing to wake up and know you don't smoke anymore. I had full carton of cigarettes in my freezer but I knew it was over. So I gave the carton to someone who appreciated the gift and went about my process of detoxing.

I still had to go through this detoxifying process, which was pretty painful. I could literally smell the nicotine coming out of my pores. I was angry and irritable. I would cry myself to sleep as the nicotine left my body. I can remember sitting at red lights watching people take drags off their cigarettes. But still I knew I didn't smoke anymore and that this would pass. I cleaned everything I could get my hands on and I had to completely re-paint our entire condo to get the smell out. The cravings, the anger, the tears, the crazy cleaning - it all finally passed.

That has been almost 23 years ago now. I will tell you there have been times I have thought about wanting a cigarette - times of extreme stress like a funeral of a loved one, chronic marriage problems, and financial troubles. But I have always known that if I picked one up, I would quickly be back to 2 ½ packs per day.

God says in all things to come with prayer and thanksgiving. So if your New Year's Resolution is to quit smoking or any other bad habit, give this technique a try. After all, you have nothing to lose!

Blessings ~ Tammy

Tammy Hardin has overcome addiction in her life, and now uses therapeutic techniques to help her clients do the same. She is a Faster EFT Practitioner, Certified Life Breakthrough Coach™, Relapse Prevention Specialist™, and Biblical Counselor™. she utilizes her training in Theophostic Prayer, SOZO, and Freedom in Christ to help her clients to create permanent changes in their lives.

If you are tired of the yo-yo diets, anxiety and fear, and insecurity associated with emotional eating, Tammy knows how to stop emotional eating, and can help you.

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Natural Vitamin Supplements and Your Safety

There are few people these days that have not heard about natural vitamins supplements. Unfortunately, not all of the news has been good. As the health benefits of natural vitamins have become more recognized over the years, we have seen an increasing amount of bad information and improperly used products.

A natural vitamin supplement is an important addition to your achieve health goals. There are a few basic steps to help make sure that the natural vitamins you take are right for your specific needs and in the right doses. This way you get all of the health benefits without any safety risk.

Below you will find a brief list of sound steps you can take to enjoy the health benefits of natural vitamin supplements.

Take a trip to your local natural foods store, pharmacy, or grocery and take a look at the different suppliers that sell natural vitamins and supplements. When you go home you will be able to research those natural vitamin wholesalers and make sure that the company reviews are good. You want to make sure that you buy from the best natural vitamin brand.

Then, start simple with a natural multivitamin. This will allow you to get the right doses of each of the major vitamins and minerals that you need daily. Individual natural vitamins will have their place in future, but you should start with the basics, so you can benefit from vitamins that are natural as soon as possible.

Next, find the latest information on natural vitamins and begin to research the vitamins that will be helpful for your specific needs. Take into factor your age, gender, activity level, and your individual health needs. You may want to add calcium for stronger bones or St. Johns wort for mental health. Now is the time to learn healthy vitamin additions and recommended dosages.

Your family doctor can be a great source of information on individual natural vitamins. In the last several years, the medical field has come to acknowledge the importance of natural vitamin supplements. Your doctor may have insight into the latest information on supplements.

At this point, you know the right brand of natural supplement, the vitamins that will best benefit your specific needs, and the dosages that are safe and will give you the greatest health benefits. The final step is to look at your budget and see what vitamin regime will fit into your monthly finances. Remember that the natural multivitamin is the most important and add slowly from there.

James provides information about the benefits of natural vitamins supplements through his website on natural vitamin supplement safety. For a warm welcome, visit our natural vitamin supplement guide.

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How to Treat Post-Nasal Drip, Nausea Naturally?

Post-nasal drip is a condition when excessive mucus accumulates at the back of your throat. This annoying problem can cause a sore throat, chronic coughing and nausea. In fact, nausea itself is not a medical condition. Actually, it is a response to post nasal drip. It can be difficult to deal with symptoms, though there are some methods that can make nausea and post nasal drip go away.

Post-nasal drip, nausea are common disorders for many people. There are many reasons why these unpleasant problems occur. It can be a sinus infection, the body's response to low temperatures, food allergy and even hormonal changes and pregnancy. Apart from that, overproduction of mucus can occur because of allergies, a flu or cold, pollution and dust.

Natural Treatments for post-nasal drip, nausea

Nausea is an incredibly uncomfortable condition, though it responds well to natural remedies.

1. A baking soda mouthwash.

Baking soda can neutralize stomach acid and reduce your pain and discomfort. Dissolve ½ teaspoon of soda in half a cup of water. Drink the mixture as an antacid or use it as a mouth rinse. This can be also helpful in encouraging your appetite and restoring your mineral balance.

Although baking soda is a strong antacid, you should use it with care; otherwise, it could worsen the situation. Before you swallow the remedy, make sure that soda is dissolved completely. Don't use this mixture if your doctor recommends you avoid antacids.

2. Herbs.

Chamomile, peppermint, alfalfa or catnip herbal teas are common natural cures for nausea. These gentle and safe remedies have been successfully used for centuries. Make sure to purchase the herbs from a reputable manufacturer. Use a decoction while it's fresh for best results.

Other teas (e.g. comfrey decoction) can be also recommended as nausea remedies; however, they are less gentle and have some undesirable side effects.

3. Ginger.

Ginger has been used for thousands of years as a nausea cure and appetite stimulant. This remedy can be taken in different forms, including candy, tea, ginger ale and pill forms.

An average dose of ginger is eight 500 mg pills per day, though you shouldn't feel compelled to use that amount if less can help you.

How to prevent post-nasal drip and nausea

Keep in mind that dairy products and milk can make digestion more difficult and increase mucus production, so you should avoid them. If you suffer from nausea, you'd better drink room temperature juice and clear liquids instead of milk (8-10 glasses a day would suffice). You should also stay away from spicy or creamy foods, alcohol, cigarettes and caffeine. Besides, it is recommended to consume plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.

While there are many ways to relieve nausea, you should see your doctor and discuss the right methods, so as some options can even worsen your health condition.

You should seek immediate medical help if you begin to vomit blood and experience severe headache, notice confusion and decreased alertness, stiff neck, diarrhea, rapid breathing, severe abdominal pain, and a fever over 38.3°C. In this case your doctor will prescribe the right treatment based on your needs.

Visit my website and see more information about post nasal drip nausea.

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Prostate Health Learn The Basics

It can be frustrating and confusing to find out what really works for a man’s prostate health. In this article I’ve summarized some of the major guidelines and recommendations you should know. And if you’ve found something that has really worked for you, which you have verified through trial and observation, please let me know. I’d like to be able to share it with others.

First, read the following list of helpful hints related to improved prostate health and benign prostate enlargement.

1. Urinary tract infections (UTI’s) are mostly related to an enlarged prostate. Candida and infections like prostatitis are also related. Candida is a common and insidious condition you should be sure to eliminate. At my website I have a simple self-test for candida.

2. Do pelvic exercises to increase circulation by tightening your pelvic muscles intentionally at least 100 times a day. Raise your awareness of the inner world of your pelvic area. Give separate consideration to your buttocks, lower abdominals, scrotum, urethra, and sphincter.

3. Use Prosperon to raise your testosterone level naturally.

4. Drink plenty of water, every day, to flush out your system.

5. Move to a low animal-protein and grain-rich diet, or some variation on the macrobiotic.

6. Keep your weight in check.

7. Keep a journal in order to track and recognize, as soon as possible, what is working for you, and what is not. Think about your symptoms for yourself; don’t just depend on your doctor!

8. Realize that hormones are hormones and vitamins are vitamins. When his PSA test results were too high, a friend decided to heal himself by doing an anti-parasite treatment. It did no harm, but your prostate has to do with hormones, and needs to be dealt with on this level.

You can’t put fresh oil in your car when you’re out of gas and then wonder why your engine won’t work!

9. Visualize that you are much healthier and that your prostate and urethra function well. Approach your body with love, as it is part of your temple where the soul resides. ACCEPT .

Melatonin: An excellent study done at Tel Aviv University showed that the melatonin receptors in

the prostate could suppress prostate enlargement. Researchers found that an enlarged prostate is

due to the imbalance of estrogen and testosterone that occurs as we age. They further noted that

the excess estrogen also interferes with the normal metabolism of melatonin (J. Clin. Endoc. Metab.

82 (1997) p. 2535 – 41).

Their advice then, is to take 1-3 mg. of melatonin supplement every night. (Stick with this dosage;

as with most medicines, more is by no means better.) Take it ONLY in the darkness of night, in order not to interfere with the body’s natural production of melatonin before sunrise. Go to bed by ten o’clock also, to get a good night’s rest.