1 Post Office Road

Waldorf, MD 20602

Open 6 Days a Week

Schedule Appointment

Why You Should Be Improving Your Back Posture

improving your back postureOh posture!  It’s that thing we all know we need to focus on a bit more but bad habits, a sedentary lifestyle, our work environment and even genetics sometimes get in the way.  Last month was National Posture Awareness Month – and I shared the importance of good neck posture for avoiding negative health effects.   But the neck is only one aspect of posture – improving your back posture in the upper and middle back, or thoracic spine, is equally important.

The most common problem with posture of the thoracic spine is increased kyphosis, or “hunching.” The thoracic spine should be shaped like a “C” with the inside of the curve facing the front of the body and the arch of the curve going from the middle of the back toward the upper back.  As this curve increases, a person will go from being slouched to severely hunched forward over time.  Hyperkyphosis can restrict breathing and actually reduce heart and lung function, impacting life expectancy.

Love Yourself – And Have More to Offer Others

love yourselfValentine’s Day has traditionally been a way to celebrate romantic love and show appreciation to your partner.  It has been celebrated all over the world for hundreds of years.  While it is a beautiful thing to acknowledge that important person in your life, the commitment to your relationship and the joy of sharing love, it is also important to remember to cultivate the ability to love yourself.  Many people both single and in relationships don’t make a conscious effort to love and appreciate themselves.

Cold and Flu – More Help

In my last blog, I talked about the real cause of colds and flu – and my #1 preventative, taking vitamin D.  The bottom line is that you need to strengthen your immunity during this time of increased incidence of cold and flu. Knowing both the contributors of a weakened immune system and ways to build a stronger immune system is your first step.

Limit your intake of sugar, grains and processed foods

Cold and flu prevention does start with what you eat.  Sugar, grains and processed foods are pro-inflammatory substances that stresses rather than nourish your body.  If you want to indulge in sweets, try small doses of dark chocolate, which is actually anti-inflammatory.  Dark chocolate with almonds is an even better choice, as the protein and good fat in the almonds will help minimize any blood sugar spike.

Organic-fruits-and-vegetablesEat food that encourage immune functioning

Boost your immune functioning by including plenty of the following in your diet:  organic fruits and vegetables, fermented foods (such as kimchee or sauerkraut), coconut oil, fish rich in omega 3 fatty acids and grass fed meat.  Consider adding immune-boosting spices to your cooking or take them as a supplement.  Garlic, turmeric, oregano, clove and cinnamon are good options.

Cold and Flu – Cause and Prevention

cold and flu photo
Swallow Falls – photo courtesy of Dr. Sharman

Wondering if you’ll get the common cold or the flu this winter?  The question is not IF you will be exposed but WHEN.  Germs and the flu virus exist everywhere you go… the grocery store, work, the coffee shop, etc.  Well, you have a lot more control over getting sick then you think!  Both your current health and the strength of your immune system during the time of exposure have an impact on cold and flu prevention.

Attitude of Gratitude

November is known as a time when many focus on Thanksgiving and gratitude.  But perhaps being grateful every day of the year can serve a greater purpose and have a profound impact on your life?

Sunsets..always grateful for these
Sunsets..always grateful for these

Nearly 800 years ago, the great poet Rumi wrote the words “Wear gratitude like a cloak and it will feed every corner of your life.”  Gratitude is a fundamental concept in almost all ancient and modern spiritual teachings.  It is the foundation of most positive psychology and personal growth movements.

I find it interesting that Rumi chose the word “feed” to say that gratitude can affect every corner of your life.  When something nourishes you, it is an essential aspect of growth, wellbeing and vitality.  Just as your body needs nutrients from food, every aspect of your life (and every cell of your body) can be nourished by gratitude.

Let Go and Let the Energy Flow

Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the Hay House Event “I Can Do it!” at the National Harbor.  I walked away with many gems from the weekend – here are some thoughts about how letting go, releasing and simplifying can pave the way for greater contentment in life.

We live in such a fast paced, overstimulating world full of a lot of stuff.

We have a lot of stress!  When we stay grounded and focus on being awake and engaged in life, we can really enjoy what we are experiencing; especially if we set ourselves up to experience what brings us joy.   One of the speakers, who is a life coach and author suggested we should spend the next year of our life removing anything that we don’t absolutely love, or doesn’t serve us, in order to watch an amazing life unfold.

I couldn’t agree more.

Getting in the “Sweet Zone” With Vitamin D

Why is it important to increase your Vitamin D level? Well there are many reasons! There is a “sweet zone” of the Vitamin D level in your blood. If you can get your Vitamin D level within this “sweet zone” there is a statistical decrease in cancer, diabetes, fractures, neurological disorders, and heart attack. Besides bone health and prevention of certain diseases, Vitamin D plays a large role in fighting viral infections. Your best flu shot just may be your daily dose of Vitamin D! The first and most important…

Life Lessons from a Feathered Friend

I am really grateful for so many things. Today I am grateful for the lessons – the messages that whisper to us in nature all around us. I was feeling guilty because as usual, I was overcommitted. I had an event this morning near the 301 bridge; rushed back to the office for patients; then was committed to travel to Baltimore for a very important fundraiser organized by a very special friend.

I finished with patients late and just couldn’t swing the fundraiser. After my initial guilt, I practiced acceptance and realized I have sane people in my life who get it and will forgive my absence. I surrendered to the fact that I can donate money to support the cause without physically being there.