At this time the American Cancer Society estimates that 21% of the population are now smokers. Approximately 46 million adults smoke cigarettes and of those there are more men than women who smoke. Interestingly, education appears to be linked with smoking rates in those who have higher levels of education have low or rates of smoking. These numbers have declined significantly, almost in half since 1965 when 42% of the population smoked.

Despite the education about the risks of smoking and the decline in recent years nearly 1 in every three male high school students and one in every five female high school students have used some type of tobacco. Cigar smoking appears to be common among high school students. The American Cancer Society also reports on studies which link students who smoke as being more likely to use other drugs, get into fights, carry weapons, commit suicide or take part in high risk sexual behaviors.  Read more...

PMS or premenstrual syndrome affects millions of women every day.  It is a disorder that emerges up to two weeks before the onset of their menstrual period.  This disorder is thought to be due to hormonal changes in the body that is the cause of over 150 symptoms to take place.

The most common symptoms are those of fatigue and headache, but some of the other symptoms that it can cause are weight gain, irritability, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, mood swings, dizziness, tender breasts, bloating, aches, pains, and back pain, as well as many more.

A woman with PMS will have these symptoms until her period as started wherein it will slowly subside until the next menstrual cycle.  However, PMS can skip cycles and this is not at all unusual.  As a woman ages premenstrual syndrome may worsen until menopause and the symptoms may become more severe.  Read more...

What is Yoga?

The word “yoga” means “union.” Yoga is a psycho-physical discipline with roots that go back about 5,000 years. There is a lot more to yoga than physical postures (Asanas), or the breathing exercises (Pranayama) or even the meditation. In the true tradition of yoga the goal is union with the Absolute, known as Brahman, or with Atman, the true self. Most people now, however, approach yoga to obtain the very real benefits of health, mental clarity, stress release and fitness. The wonderful thing about yoga is its flexibility. Practitioners can focus on the spiritual, psychological or physical benefits of yoga, or all of the above.

Is Yoga a Religion?

Yoga defies categorization. Whatever your method of contacting the Divine, Yoga can accelerate movement in that direction. It does not discriminate on the basis of gender or religion or race. Yoga is truly universal. Most people find that they can practice Yoga without any conflict with their religious beliefs.

Is Yoga Good for You?  Read more...

While it is estimated that some women can experience the onset of perimenopause and menopause beginning in their 30’s, early menopause can cause great anxiety. What are the effects of early menopause?

While most people associate menopause with older women, it can occur in younger women as well. Any women who is going through the full menopause cycle before the age of 40, is considered to be experiencing premature menopause. Imagine the emotional effect this can have on a young woman. In addition to the associated symptoms of menopause, experiencing this premature cycle can add another level of emotion which could be just as devastating.

Some of the causes of premature menopause are: premature ovarian failure, in which your body’s immune system attacks itself causing your ovaries to stop functioning.  Read more...