Backaches are common problems that afflict millions of people around the world.  It sometimes is a symptom of other serious illnesses but usually caused by poor posture, strain, fatigue, or age.  Constipation, stomach ulcers, gallstones and high-healed shoes can cause a backache.  Pain occurs in the middle of the back and on either side of the spine.  A backache can be miserable and affect your quality of life.

Avoid straining the back by practicing proper posture.  Do not slouch in your office chair and walk standing up straight.  Wear low-heeled shoes …

by Karen Masterson Koch, C.N.

Aloe vera is nothing new. You may have discovered it back in the sixties or seventies, when it began to gain household recognition in the U.S. as a salve for burns. But it’s been around much longer than that. Egyptian Queens Cleopatra and Nefertiti both gave tribute to aloe vera as one of their most important beauty secrets. Alexander the Great carried the aloe vera plant into battle to treat wounded soldiers. In fact, this high-sulfur member of the garlic family dates back 6,000 years, and …

Like so many New Age practices and beliefs, aromatherapy has ancient roots. The use of essential oils to affect mood and well-being can be found far back in Egyptian, Greek and Roman history. In fact, when the three kings of biblical fame brought gifts, including gold, to baby Jesus, their other highly prized offerings were frankincense and myrrh… resins from these herbs are still in use today.

While scientific evidence about aromatherapy is scant, its long-standing role in spirituality and healing, along with strong anecdotal support of its benefits, gives …

Recovery from childbirth

Pregnancy, labor and childbirth all put a strain on your body and general physical condition. Your body has gone through numerous changes in the last several months and needs to recover from the trauma of childbirth. It will gradually regain its pre-pregnancy state over approximately 6 weeks following delivery. This period is called the “postpartum period”.

Women who have had a normal vaginal delivery may be up and about after a few days, although their bodies will take several weeks to complete the healing process. For those who have …

My ‘Finding Inspiration’ series was written out of a need that comes up in my practice, most often in Spring and Fall. I feel we all need a bit of enlightenment now and then to help us move forward. Finding motivation through inspiration can be the spark which sets you on your way!

Nature’s Gifts

Spring is here. What better time to take advantage of the power of our sense of smell!

We can find great inspiration through the power of our olfactory senses. Spring time is the season of renewal, where flowers …

The answer to the question can lifestyle changes help your headaches are a resounding yes! You can do much to prevent recurrence and lessen the severity of your tension headaches. Tension headaches are just that, headaches caused by stress, anxiety, depression and tension. If you can make some simple changes in your life style and reduce the headaches wouldnt you?

Here are just a few simple ways of taking care of yourself and changing your lifestyle. First, create healthy habits. Eat and sleep at regular times. …