Mary Jean Wall

Women and Stress

One of the worst things about this modern and fast paced world is that many people now are feeling the effects of being just too stressed out. This is not only an uncomfortable experience but long term stress will cause a myriad of health problems such as high blood pressure, anxiety, belly fat and problems with sleeping .  There are ways though, that many people are gaining a handle on this through relaxation techniques.  These techniques are essential in one’s quest for overall optimal health is increasing the quality of life for many people.

Even when your stress is under control, finding ways to relax should still be a practice in everyday life.  Some of the health benefits will include a lowering of blood pressure, the reduction of chronic pain, concentration will increase as well as self confidence and overall happiness.  When one practices this, they will find that the things that used to get to them throughout the day, not longer affect them, the stress is prevented before it even happens.  Hottubs are a great way to relax – even if you are wearing makeup!!  The size and the shape of spas will affect the impact of one’s experience, however the size will affect this more than the shape.  Shape will determine how many people will fit in the tub, and the variety of benches and positions that one can sit in.

The shape will also enhance the entire design of one’s backyard.  But the size will greatly affect the satisfaction one has with their tub and the performance of that tub.  While larger hot tubs and spas will create the space for more people, they are more expensive than smaller tubs, but they will usually have many more jets and a variety of angles, so it may be worth the price for maximum performance, maximum stress relief and improved women’s fitness levels.  It is amazing the effects that take place with just ten minutes spent in a hot tub.  Immediately one will feel the weight of the world just slip away.  Sleep will come quickly, and one will wake up rested, stress free and ready to take on what the day may bring.

Women’s Favorite Five Health and Fitness Apps

The first few months of the year are a time of focus on health for many women. The catalyst for this focus is those New Year’s resolutions. While resolutions to lose weight, get healthy, or shape-up are nothing new, what is new is how women are approaching their resolutions.

Women still focus on diet and exercise, but widely available technology now plays a large role. Apps on smartphones, tablets, and even computers help women stay on track, meet goals, and learn news ways to shape-up. Here are some of the top health and fitness apps women are using:

1.  MyFitnessPal
   The most popular use for this app is counting calories. With over 2 million foods in its database, all she needs to do is input her food and the app tracks it for her. The app also offers an exercise tracking function and tutorials on over 350 exercises. The best part is that women can share their diets, routines, goals, and success with friends to increase success.
2. WebMD
   Women like to use WebMD to understand their unique conditions. Ladies who suffer from conditions such as diabetes, musculoskeletal conditions, and other conditions that can be managed through wellness routines enjoy access to detailed information at their fingertips.
3. Exercise Buddy
   This app focuses on helping women manage exercise routines. It includes over 1000 HD videos and over 1700 exercise tutorials. In addition, it contains over 75 pre-created workout routines that target specific needs and equipment. Exercise Buddy also includes body metrics tracking with intuitive graph interface so that ladies can see their results.
4. Daily Ab Workout
   Strong, toned abs are easier to get with this app guiding the workout. The app is designed to offer women a quick, convenient way to focus on their cores. Ab workouts are presented with video instructions and timers.
5. VirtualGym
   This app features 3D animations and a virtual personal trainer to help women learn how to maximize their exercise routines. Includes over 400 exercises, 100 workouts, and badges and points to celebrate achievements. The app includes a calendar to assist with planning and tracking.

Women (and men) are enjoying the convenience of health and fitness apps. With the swipe of a thumb, they are tracking their diets, managing workouts, learning new exercises and sharing successes with friends. The entire health and fitness industry benefits greatly during the first few months of every year, and this year. Mobile apps greatly benefited in 2013 thanks to women seeking new ways to approach their New Year’s resolutions.

Louise Simpson is a fitness writer who used to be a computer programmer.  She likes to write about health and technology for not only health blogs, but for software sites like http://www.contacttracking.com/.

The Struggle of Women in Rehab

Drug addiction comes in many forms, from the illegal narcotics to the abuse of prescribed medication. This form of addiction usually masks many other painful problems, especially for women. 70% of women who abuse drugs have a history of sexual or physical abuse. These problems make rehab a compound problem complicated by other emotional trauma. Not only that, but women are often the primary caregivers and have jobs where the temptation of using drugs can become overbearing.

What Is Dual Diagnosis?

Women who have problems with drug addiction often suffer from other problems. Mood disorders such as anxiety and depression are common among these women, likely due to past traumas that they did not want to deal with fully. This is how a cycle of use emerges and the women become reliant on drugs to numb the pain of their mood disorders.

This is not a hopeless scenario, but rehab must treat more than the main symptom. This means that therapy is often a vital part of treatment. Studies have shown that women who are treated for both their mood problem and drug addiction are more likely to succeed after rehab. These women are able to rebuild their lives and become productive members of society.

Rehab With Kids in Tow

Some drug rehab programs cater specifically to women who are pregnant or have children (click here to locate such programs). If the woman still still has kids, programs may also allow the children to get treated for the emotionally problems associated with their mother’s addiction. This allows for a fuller recovery process and addresses the needs of the child or children.

In some cases, mothers may have lost custody of their children and lack the means to support them financially or emotionally. In that case, there are visitation options that rehab facilities provide. Once the mother has undergone treatment the center might be able to recommend that custody is at least partially restored or that she is given visitation rights.

Avoiding Temptation

Some women took to drugs because they were readily available in their chosen profession. Nurses are faced with prescription medication on a daily basis. This can prove too much for those recovering from addiction. Women who have had problems with drug addiction should try to avoid these professions. However, if it is absolutely necessary for them to work in these jobs, then a support group should be attended weekly and a sponsor and counselor consulted when temptation is at hand.

Transvaginal Mesh Dangers

Transvaginal mesh (TVM) implants are medical devices that have been used to help women suffering from medical conditions such as stress urinary incontinence (SUI) & pelvic organ prolapse (POP).  The mesh is surgically implanted and used to strengthen the natural body tissue.  It can be made of either synthetic or natural material.  This treatment can help patients with the symptoms caused by POP and SUI.

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a fairly common condition and happens when the muscles that hold the pelvic organs in place become stretched. This causes the pelvic organs such as the bladder, bowel or uterus to bulge down into the vagina area.

Stress urinary incontinence (SUI) causes urine to leak out of the bladder at unexpected times such as when exercising or laughing.

Unfortunately the transvaginal mesh  surgery has been associated with medical complications such as incontinence or erosion around the mesh causing it to move and interfer with bodily parts such as the bladder and vagina.  This has caused pain and bleeding in some patients.  During 2008 the FDA put forth a public warning stating the facts on these complications.

There are also class action lawsuits associated with transvaginal (TMV) complications.

National Women’s Health Week, May 13-19

With Mother’s Day coming up on Sunday it’s time once again for National Women’s Health Week. It’s easy for women, especially moms, to put the needs of others before their own; particularly in regards to health. But for one week each year it’s time to put ourselves first, make our health a priority and start fresh with a clean bill of health.

States and cities across the country are hosting events and activities to help women get their health back on track. The Oklahoma State Department of Health is focusing on the high obesity statistics by encouraging women to eat right and exercise. They are also focusing on maintaining good health particularly before and during pregnancy to help ensure a healthy baby. They aren’t the only ones. Other cities and organizations are focusing on other areas of health such as arthritis , menopause, and even sexual health.

Letting your health fall to wayside is easy to do but for the sake of yourself and your family it’s important to address areas of concern, seek treatment when necessary, and take the steps you need to in order to live a healthy emotional life as well as physical life.

Texas Being Sued Over Women’s Health Legislation

Health care has been a hot topic for debate in the last couple years, especially with the passage of Obamacare . While most of the debate has been at a national level, individual states are dealing with their own healthcare issues. Today Planned Parenthood announced that they have filed a lawsuit against the state of Texas because of legislation passed in the 2011 session barring Planned Parenthood from receiving funding through the Women’s Health Program.

The Women’s Health program, which does get money from the federal government, provides birth control and other health services for women on Medicaid. The program does not however provide funds for abortions or abortion referrals. Because the program does receive funding from the federal government, the Department of Health and Human Services is involved as well. For more information you can read the full article here .

Keys to a Successful Pregnancy

Pregnancy is an exciting, joyous, emotionally charged time for new parents-to-be. It can also be a bit intimidating knowing that the health of your baby depends so much on how you take care of your own health. Most of the time, pregnancy goes smoothly for both mom and baby. To maximize your chances of a successful pregnancy, however, there are a few tips you should follow:

• Early Medical Care. As soon as you find out you are pregnant, you should schedule an appointment with an OB/GYN. Studies have shown that women who obtain early pregnancy care have healthier babies.
• Get Your Rest. Your body goes through an unbelievable amount of changes during pregnancy. Fluctuating hormones can cause you to feel easily fatigued, especially in the first and third trimesters. Make it a point to get in bed on time at night, and go ahead a nap during the day if you need it.
• Eat Healthy. As your baby grows and develops, extra nutrients and minerals from your body are redirected to assist with this development. It is most important that you are eating healthy, nutritious foods throughout your pregnancy to maintain both yours and your baby’s health.
• Take Your Vitamins. Sometimes, getting adequate nutrition during pregnancy can be challenging, especially if you are suffering from morning sickness. Prenatal vitamins are designed to make sure your body is getting everything it needs to sustain a successful pregnancy. Vitamins like Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and folic acid for pregnancy is important.
• Get Some Exercise. Exercise during pregnancy is healthy for both you and your baby. You will, however, need to discuss any exercise program with you OB/GYN before beginning, especially if the program features abdominal exercises. Daily walking is an excellent exercise you can do safely while pregnant.
• Plan Ahead. Most women naturally experience a phenomenon known as “nesting” when they approach their due date. This is an almost uncontrollable urge to prepare the nursery, purchase and put away baby clothes, and generally make sure everything is ready for baby’s arrival. It is easy to over exert yourself when nesting strikes, however. Try to do little things throughout your pregnancy so that when the nesting impulse does hit you, you will be less likely to overdo things; there won’t be much to do.

It should go without saying, also, that if you experience any abnormal symptoms you should contact your doctor immediately. Things such as preterm labor can be stopped if they are treated promptly.

Alternative Remedies for Arthritis Pain

As you age, it is natural for your activity level to decrease and for aches and pains to develop. Some pain is normal, but stiffness and pain felt around one or more joints can be a sign that inflammation has settled in and symptoms of arthritis have begun. If you are one of the estimated 50 million Americans with arthritis, try one of these alternative remedies for pain before taking a prescription medicine.

Supplements      

• Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acid, which reduces inflammation and morning stiffness. These acids are found in fish such as mackerel and salmon.

• Glucosamine relieves pain, increases joint mobility and reduces deterioration of cartilage. A study by the National Institute of Health showed glucosamine relieved pain more effectively when combined with chondroitin.

• Chondroitin strengthens joints by helping cartilage absorb water to keep joints lubricated and reduce pain.

Herbs and Spices

• Turmeric is a spice used in many Asian dishes to give the food color and flavor. Studies have shown that the anti-inflammatory properties in turmeric help relieve pain.

• Ginger relieves soreness in joints and reduces inflammation. It is available in capsules, extracts or you can add dried ginger to your food.

• Olive leaf extract is popular in the Mediterranean to ease pain and inflammation from arthritis.

• Willow bark tea reduces pain and inflammation but it may take a few days of use to show results.

Nutrition

• Juices, such as pineapple, pomegranate and cherry are used to relieve symptoms of swelling, pain and inflammation. Combinations of beets and berry wine, cranberry and blackstrap molasses or apple cider vinegar and honey have also been helpful in reducing pain and inflammation for some people.

• Studies recommend lowering the amount of fat in your diet and limiting dairy products, caffeine and sugar.

• Fresh vegetables, fruits with low acid content, fish, soybeans and avocados are helpful for treating symptoms of arthritis. In addition, you can eat cherries and pineapple frequently to ease inflammation.

Oils

• Some natural oils will sooth the pain of arthritis. Massage hot castor oil, arthcare oil, emu oil or camphor mixed with coconut oil on affected joints. You can also soak in a hot Epsom salt bath or massage hot vinegar on the sore joints for relief.

One or more of these natural remedies may be the right one for you and can help you to stop your arthritis pain without the need for potentially dangerous medications.

Eliminate Belly Fat

Excess belly fat is a problem for many women. Its the type of thing that can creep up on you – and suddenly its there… And you say to yourself – “where did that come from??” For some reason fat in this area seems to be harder to get rid of. Well the solution is to target belly fat with a combination of exercise and diet.

There are only two things you need to do to eliminate belly fat:

1. Undertake a regular cardiovascular exercise program
2. Eliminate all processed foods

Cardiovascular Exercise

Cardiovascular exercise also known as aerobic exercise or cardio is the type of exercise that increases your heart rate for an extended time period.  Be aware that abdominal exercise alone will not get rid of belly fat.  It may strengthen your muscles – but they will be hidden behind a layer of fat.  Cardio involves exercising to the point of being out of breath and keeping going.  Examples are running, bicycling, aerobics, swimming etc.  Before undertaking a cardio program always consult a doctor.

You should attempt to do this type of exercise on a regular basis – five days per week and for around 40 minutes.  If you do this you will burn off calories and strengthen your heart and major muscle groups.  It will also do wonders for your mind and help to relieve stress.

Eliminate Processed Foods

Processed foods start of as regular foods which are then treated and altered to give them a longer shelf life and to make them more palatable to consumers.  Vital nutrients such as fiber and vitamins are removed and often they are enriched with preservatives, trans fats, sugar and sodium.  All processed foods should be eliminated as it encourages belly fat and general ill health.

Replace processed foods with natural, organic, healthy foods including nuts, fruits and vegetables.  There are certain foods that are natural fat burners and these include citrus fruit, almonds, walnuts, oats, salmon and eggs.  Be wary of the amount of carbohydrates that you ingest and always stick to whole grains.  Drink lots of pure water as this is essential to your daily health and essential for a detox diet.

Make these changes and make it part of your new healthy lifestyle.  Shed that belly fat and enjoy health!!

Always check with a medical doctor before dieting or starting any type of exercise program. As a last resort if you have tried everything you can also consider cosmetic surgery / liposuction as a way to get rid of fat

Image via Creative Commons.

How to Raise a Daughter to Have Healthy Self Esteem

Women have come a long way in modern culture and society. With the right encouragement and a drive to succeed, your daughter can grow up to be anything she wants. Unfortunately, women and girls tend to be on the losing side of the self-esteem battle and this is something many attribute to not only our society but the media’s pressure on women as well.

Self-esteem is related to how we feel about our bodies, our minds, and our place in the larger world. Girls’ self-worth generally peaks around nine or ten years old, but then it sharply declines when they hit their preteen and teenage years. Media outlets such as television, music, and magazines can have a negative effect on girls’ self-image and sense of self-worth. Societal pressures to look, act, or be a certain way can stifle a girl’s view of herself. By giving our daughters encouragement, love, and the right perspective, we can arm them with the tools they need to grow up happy, healthy, and confident women.