80% Experience Back Problems: What to Know Before Your Spine Is Affected

According to the American Chiropractic Association, 80 percent experience back problems at some point in their lives. Because of the likelihood that this may happen to you, you need to know the major causes of back pain. It can be mechanical or stem from serious conditions. Here is what you need to know before your spine is affected:

Most Back Pain is Mechanical

Movement that causes back pain would be categorized as mechanical. It is not the only cause of back pain to fit in the mechanical category, though. A few other mechanical causes of back pain are sprains, strains, and herniated discs. Some of the causes can be avoided by taking preventative measures. Mechanical causes are serious, but back pain caused by more serious conditions could be life-threatening.

Your Back Pain May Come from Serious Conditions

A few examples of serious conditions that cause back pain are cancer, blood clots, and kidney infections. There is little difference, however, to how back pack pain is caused. Mechanical cause is associated with the spine’s movement. Yet, serious conditions can come from anywhere. Back pain caused by such conditions can be easily masked and mistaken for a mechanical cause without proper diagnosis by a doctor. If you feel back pain, make an effort to visit the doctor as this could be one of the most important preventative measures that you take.

You Can Minimize Your Back Pain

One of the best ways to minimize your back pain is through practicing good posture. You have most likely heard it before—maybe from a teacher or parent—but it’s important! Being active is also crucial. Make sure to stretch before doing a workout session, though. If you work in an environment where you’re pretty stationary, you can minimize the chances of getting back pain by using ergonomic chairs, desks, and workstations.

It’s Possible to Avoid the Chronic Pain That Results from a Back Injury

A back injury can happen at any time. Lifting with the wrong posture or a sports accident could cause a back injury. Unfortunately, it can lead to chronic pain that will need to be dealt with proper pain management techniques in order for you to function in life properly.

If you have yet to experience serious back pain, do what you can now to prevent it from happening in the future. Be like the 20 percent! If you do experience some pain, don’t put it off. Ask a doctor if it is mechanical or serious and what can be done to get your back feeling better again. Don’t let it get to the point where chronic pain becomes an issue for you.

Pantone recently announced Ultra-Violet, as the 2018 Color of the Year. Serving as the hue of some of our favorite superfoods, Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O., a New York City Osteopathic Physician board certified, has compiled a list of the impressive benefits these cosmic colored foods have to offer and why you should incorporate them into their diet.

• Blackberries are loaded with vitamin C, as well as vitamins A, E, K, and B vitamins, antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin, which sift free radicals and reactive oxygen species.
• Blueberries are a top superfood of the fruit world, containing iron, phosphorous, calcium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, and vitamin K, which help and maintain bone health.
• Red cabbage contains disease-fighting properties known as polyphenols, which offer antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer benefits. It also is a great source of dietary fiber and a rich source of several vitamins.
• Lavender Oil created from the lavender herb, has been proven to assist with getting rid of bloating and calming itching.
• Plums are rich in fiber and help to ease digestion, as well as great source of vitamin A.
• Açaí Berries are loaded with antioxidants, as well as being rich in fiber, protein, carbohydrates, vitamins A, B, C and E, mineral salts (calcium, iron, phosphorus and potassium) amongst others.
• Figs are rich in natural health benefiting phytonutrients, antioxidants and vitamins. Dried figs are a great concentrated source of minerals and vitamins.

About the doctor:

Dr. Christopher Calapai, D.O. is an Osteopathic Physician board certified in family medicine, and anti-aging medicine. Proclaimed the "The Stem Cell Guru" by the New York Daily News, Dr. Calapai is a leader in the field of stem cell therapy in the U.S. His stem cell treatments have achieved remarkable results in clinical trials on patients with conditions as varied as Alzheimer's, arthritis, erectile dysfunction, frailty syndrome, heart, kidney and liver failure, lupus, MS and Parkinson's. He has worked with Mike Tyson, Mickey Rourke, Steven Seagal, and Gotham's, Donal Logue; and as a medical consultant for the New York Rangers. Connect with him via twitter @drcalapai or at www.drcal.net

The International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation is a United Nations sponsored annual awareness day that takes place on February 6 as part of the UN's efforts to eradicate female genital mutilation. FGM involves removing and damaging healthy and normal female genital tissue, and interferes with the natural functions of girls' and women's bodies.

Lucinda E. Clarke, author of the suspenseful literary fiction, Amie Cut for Life (Umhlanga Press), which deals with FGM and human sex trafficking, is available to discuss essential aspects of FGM with your audience – the what, who, where, why and how – as well as why the International Day of Zero Tolerance is so important.

OVERVIEW OF FEMALE GENITAL MUTILATION:

WHY

The practice, rooted in gender inequality, attempts to control women’s sexuality and ideas about purity, modesty and beauty. It is usually initiated and carried out by women (!), who see it as a source of honor, and fear that failing to have their daughters and granddaughters cut will expose the girls to social exclusion.

The reasons why female genital mutilations are performed vary from one region to another as well as over time, and include a mix of socio-cultural factors within families and communities. Where FGM is a social convention (social norm), the social pressure to conform to what others do and have been doing, as well as the need to be accepted socially and the fear of being rejected by the community, are strong motivations to perpetuate the practice. In some communities, FGM is almost universally performed and unquestioned.

FGM is often considered a necessary part of raising a girl, and a way to prepare her for adulthood and marriage.

FGM is often motivated by beliefs about what is considered acceptable sexual behaviour. It aims to ensure premarital virginity and marital fidelity. FGM in many communities is believed to reduce a woman's libido and therefore it will help her resist extramarital sexual acts. When a vaginal opening is covered or narrowed, the fear of the pain of opening it, and the fear that this will be found out, is expected to further discourage extramarital sexual intercourse among women with this type of FGM.

FGM is more likely to be carried out where it is believed that being cut increases marriageability.

WHERE

Female genital mutilation is widely practiced in Africa, Asia and the Middle East. However with many people now making their home is new countries, the practice is now seen in North America (USA and Canada) and most countries in Europe – despite it being illegal. Children are often sent overseas to their country of origin for the procedure during the school holiday (the cutting season). UNICEF estimated in 2016 that 200 million women living today in 30 countries have undergone the procedure. Since 1990, the estimated number of girls and women in the US who have undergone or are at risk of the practice has more than tripled.

SOME OF THE DANGERS

The procedure can cause bleeding (haemorrhage), chronic pain, scar tissue and keloid, recurrent infections (eg tetanus), swelling of the genital tissue, fever, wound healing problems, difficulty urinating and passing menstrual flow, the development of cysts, an inability to get pregnant, sexual problems, complications during childbirth, infant mortality, shock and even death.

This does not even touch the damage to the dignity and self-esteem of the victim.

More than 40,000 Ontarians were newly started on high-dose prescription opioids in 2016

SOURCE Health Quality Ontario

What are YogaPaws?

YogaPaws gloves and socks are made out of an ergonomic design that keeps the webbing of the hands and feet happy while you exercise. The thick pads encourage correct posture and technique while providing all the comfort and support that Yogi desires. Finger and toe cutouts allow you to take full control of your positioning, while fitted palm and feet coverage boosts your balance and helps evenly distribute your weight while in movement. The gear makes exercising both indoors and outdoors feel effortless and natural - just like it should.

Why YogaPaws?

YogaPaws allow you to practice yoga anytime, anywhere, without the use of a mat. They’re convenient to pack lightly, and have many different uses, too. Check out other ways yogis are using their gloves and socks here! Plus, it’s not just for women – there are men’s sizes and options available, too.

Where can YogaPaws be purchased?

Online, at several different retailers, including their website and Amazon, YogaOutlet.com and more.

Other info & Quick Stats
Click here for the company website: http://www.yogapaws.com
Interview: Jamie Getwiller, CEO/inventor

YogaPaws is a mother/daughter adventure which started in 2001 and officially in launched in 2003. Gail (mother) and Jamie (daughter) Getzwiller share a love for travel and yoga which lead to a natural development of the YogaPaws. Since then, they have embarked on a journey of love and working dedication to produce the best “paws” possible. Yoga Paws have been a product and company that cares about spreading the love and allowing all the yogi's around the world to enjoy as non-slip practice, anytime, anywhere.

Pricing: Full sets begin at $35.00 and in a variety of sizes, ranging from petite, wide and regular.

Donation and Transplant in Ontario Makes Headway in Last 10 Years

SOURCE Trillium Gift of Life Network

Swimming VS Lifting Weights: a Guide to Effective Exercise

Putting together a solid exercise regimen can initially be overwhelming and hard. There are so many different and diverse physical fitness options available to people who are open-minded and attentive. There are many people who swim to stay fit and healthy. There are many people out there who lift weights, too. These forms of exercise both bring their own distinct advantages to the table.

The Advantages of Lifting Weights

What exactly can weightlifting do for health-conscious folks? A lot. Lifting weights, first and foremost, can enhance muscle mass significantly. If you want to look like the portrait of muscular glory, you can’t go wrong with weightlifting. Weightlifting can promote the strength and power of your bones, too. People who want their bones to be powerful often turn to lifting. It can be great for people who want better bone density. Note that better density can minimize the negative consequences that are associated with osteoporosis, a medical condition that involves the weakness of the bones.

Other Weightlifting Perks

There are various other major advantages that are linked to regular weightlifting sessions. These advantages include reduced blood pressure and enhanced stability. People who suffer from hypertension can get a lot out of weightlifting. The same goes for people who simply want to stay safe. Trips and falls can lead to fatalities. You can protect yourself from the risks of falls by working on your bodily stability. Powerful muscles translate to dependable stability. People who go through severe falls often have balance troubles.

The Advantages of Swimming

If you want to feel amazing, then you should consider signing up for swimming lessons. Swimming is a type of exercise that offers many diverse perks. These advantages are generally nothing like those that are associated with weightlifting. The two activities couldn’t be more different. Their perks, however, are equally valid and worthwhile. Swimming makes a fine exercise choice for many for a wealth of notable reasons. People enjoy swimming. It’s not a chore. If you take swimming classes, the time will fly by. You won’t be staring at your phone waiting to go home.

Swimming Lessons

Swimming can enhance your wellness considerably, too. It can help you improve your stamina and endurance. If you’re the kind of person who always tires quickly, and want to learn to swim, swimming lessons may change your life for good. Swimming can also help enhance cardiovascular fitness. It can even boost the strength of your muscles. This activity can do wonders for people who want to keep their weight in check. Excess weight can be problematic in many ways. It can make people markedly more susceptible to all kinds of severe and potentially fatal medical conditions. Swimming, last but not least, even offers convenient muscle toning. It can be great for your entire physique, no exaggerations. When you swim, you employ the vast majority of your hard-working muscles, interestingly enough.

Try Weightlifting or Swimming Today

Weightlifting and swimming are two types of exercise that can transform your existence, body and health in general. They can do things beyond that as well. Weightlifting and swimming can help you gain clarity. People often do a lot of thinking when they’re in the middle of exercise sessions. Weightlifting and swimming can even be calming activities.

If you’re looking for an exercise path that can keep your mind off of all of your problems, lifting weights can work. Swimming can, too. It’s always a great idea to explore all of the fitness choices that are accessible to you. People should try to move their bodies in different ways all of the time. It can help to keep the body guessing.

Canadian patients to benefit from major investment in genomics and precision health research

SOURCE Genome Canada

BEST HAIR TIPS FOR GIRLS WITH NATURAL CURLS

International Stylist and Curl Master Creator of The Doux

Gets Real About Real Hair

People with wavy or curly hair are always looking for new products, tips and tricks to lock in their desired look. Whether they want to blow it straight, create looser curls or maximize their tighter coils, Maya Smith, Celebrity Hair Stylist, salon owner and creator of The Doux, the “Indie” haircare line with cult following available at Target  is truly the master. Here she shares her best tips for girls with curls who want to revel in their natural hair and create a style they love.

Understand the battle between oil and moisture.

The first thing people must understand is that there are opposite things going on at the same time. “Due to the shape of curly haired strands, the hair tends to be under moisturized. On the other hand, the curly haired scalp can get very oily. Managing these opposite demands is the struggle of girls who wish to keep their curls. The key here is knowing how best to address both,” explains Maya who led the movement for women to transition from relaxers to natural curls.

Be gentle when washing curly hair.

According to Maya, kinky, thick, coiled textures tend to appear “tough” and strong enough to withstand heavy manipulation. “In my experience, these hair types are actually the most delicate, and should be handled with care, she recommends.”

Step One: Pick your products wisely.

Maya applied over 2 decades of research and development based on working knowledge of hair texture and listening to what people wanted. “I created The Doux™ SUCKA FREE Moisturizing Shampoo and FRESH RINSE Moisturizing Conditioner as the one-two step that delivers both deep cleaning plus exceptional nourishment necessary for styling.” It’s now available in Target stores and the full product line is available online at www.thedoux.com.

Step Two: Prep for shampoo.

Maya’s professional instructions for curl mastery begins with rinsing hair thoroughly with water for a minimum of 30 seconds. “This helps to eliminate any water-soluble product buildup, such as hair gel or heat protectant. It also helps you save shampoo! Assuming you’re shampooing in the shower, letting the water run over the hair in a downward motion helps prevent further tangling, and allows the hair shaft to swell and the curl pattern to fully rebound.” For those with extremely thick hair, Maya suggests separating hair into 4 sections prior to wetting the hair for increased manageability.

Once the shampoo is applied, Maya recommends light manipulation at the scalp, going from the crown of the head to the nape of the neck. “Squishing” the hair up toward the scalp is a no-no. “Shampooing this way can cause unforgivable tangling and matting. I recommend repeating the shampooing process at least once.”

Step Three: Condition and comb through like a pro. 

If your scalp was properly shampooed, conditioning is easy. “This time, you’re focusing on your thirsty ends first, working upward toward the scalp. Gently detangle with a wide-toothed comb or detangling brush (our favorite is Felicia Leatherwood’s “Brush with the Best” detangling brush) before rinsing, starting at the ends, working up toward to the roots. Remember to rinse with cool water which snaps cuticles shut, locks in moisture, makes your hair shinier and reduces frizz.”

When it comes to “co-washing” or “conditioner washing” Maya equates the popular trend to washing your clothes with fabric softener. “In my experience, co-washing causes build-up on the hair, coating the cuticle and impairing the hair’s natural ability to absorb water. Oils, waxes, and product residue harden on the hair shaft, making it more brittle and less porous over time. When the hair can no longer effectively absorb water, the elasticity of the hair is compromised, leaving the hair “crunchy” and stiff, where it is more likely to break. The result is hair that feels dry and brittle, no matter what product you use to moisturize it,” explains Maya.

One of the things Maya Smith and her team of stylists are known for is their ability to restore hundreds of their clients’ curls, simply by getting them to trade in the co-wash for a gentle, pH-balanced moisturizing shampoo, like The Doux’s SUCKA FREE which properly cleanses hair of product residue. “Once you have the hair thoroughly clean it “drinks” up the necessary amount of moisture, and returns to its natural softness,” Maya clarifies.

Avoid alcohol and kick the crunch to the curb.

Styling products high in alcohol give curls a crunchy feel.  They suck up every last bit of moisture.  Hair spray tends to contain the most alcohol, while gels, mousses and anything that provides hold or lift come in second. “I recommend water-soluble gels that don't feel sticky on your skin, and aerated mousses or foams that resemble beaten egg whites, to give hair fullness, control, and non-brittle curls,” Maya says.

She adds that she created The Doux so it can be used on hair that is worn curly or straight. “Our clients purchase one set of products, and apply them differently to achieve the style they want. If you’re rocking curly hair today, you’re using The Doux’s Mousse Def and Bonita Afro Balm for softness and definition, and The Light for shine. If you’re wearing a blowout, you’re still using the same products, but applying them less liberally, and using the shine mist as a heat protectant. It’s super simple and easy to follow once you’ve seen the results each of them deliver,” Maya explains.

Blow-Dry with a diffuser or hooded dryer.

Maya’s first choice for curly styles is to air dry. “If you don’t have the time to air dry then dry with a diffuser or hooded dryer on a low heat setting.  A regular blow dryer nozzle disrupts the curl pattern and focuses hot air on one small section at a time while a diffuser, dries curls evenly for a full, uniform look,” she explains.

Maya recommends always applying a heat-protecting product, then flipping your head upside down using a diffuser at the roots and mid-length making sure to dry the area completely to lock in volume. “It’s important to leave the ends for last, and leave them only semi-dry. Air drying the ends is your best option.”

Care for the curls you were born with!

About Maya Smith:

Maya Smith is an International Master Stylist and Founder of The Doux Salon and haircare line now available in Target. With over two decades of styling experience Maya dedicated two decades to cracking the code on curl care, maintenance and expert styling. When it comes to caring for one’s natural hair and styling it, Maya is the best there is.

While still in high school, Maya got her hair cutting license and graduated from beauty school. Soon after graduating high school, Maya began following her passion and worked as an assistant for celebrity stylist Tracy Johnson. She learned from Johnson and progressed as a hair stylist for celebrities and entertainers. Years later the military wife would relocate to Germany, where Maya opened up her first salon The HoneyComb, a mecca for textured hair care for women from all over Europe, The UK, and as far as Africa. Maya's unique system of textured hair styling sparked the development of The DOUX® haircare products, first launched overseas, and distributed throughout Germany, France, Italy, and the Netherlands. 

Currently, Maya leads a carefully selected team of stylists at The DOUX® Salon in Macon, Georgia and on Christmas Eve 2017, celebrated the arrival of The DOUX® in Target stores nationwide. Maya Smith, wife, mom of 5 and savvy business woman is an example not just for women of color but for all women who believe their gifts can impact the world, striving for entrepreneurial endeavors with grace, ease and hustle.