News: November 2017

Slowing down = Living better

Journalist Carl Honore's TED Talk really opened my eyes to the problematic pace of our lives. His book, In Praise of Slowness, discusses the western world's view of time as linear, rather than cyclical. We have a finite amount of time, so we race to cram in as much as possible. But, as many of us know, this roller-coaster speed lifestyle eventually leads to burnout, illness, and injury. Even our relationships suffer.

Still, we are of the mindset that faster is better. We take pride in being busy all the time. We equate slowness with laziness. And for many of us, rushing through our days distracts us from bigger issues we perhaps don't want to face.

But recently, people have begun searching for ways to slow down. Evidence shows that when we slow down, we live happier, healthier, and more productive lives. Working hours have declined in some parts of the world, namely Europe, and the result has been an upsurge in productivity and an increase in the quality of lives.

Perhaps the desire to slow down and live our lives, rather than rush through them, is why complementary medicine has grown so popular. Many physicians, for example, rush patients in and out. On the other hand, a massage therapist will work with you for an hour or more, listen to your concerns, and offer you the space you need to slow down and let go.

Let's all make it a priority to slow down and enjoy our lives - to take the time to eat slowly and mindfully, to develop meaningful relationships, to sleep, to spend quality time with our loved ones, to notice our surroundings, and to breathe. We are sure to be delighted with the results!

Correct poor posture with one simple relaxing pose

In the spirit of slowness, I'd like you to join me in the following video. You will find that you can improve your posture and reduce associated pain and tension by simply lying down. Grab a couple of pillows or towels and get ready to relax and breathe with me.

If you have back pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, hunched shoulders, forward head posture, or you spend your days in front of a computer, give yourself five minutes to relax in this simple pose that will ease pain and correct poor posture.

What's new with me ...

By the time you read this, I will be in Sydney, Australia with my husband! Jesse went to meet with his Australian coworkers, and I tagged along because ... well, why not? We are gone for a week. It was very difficult leaving Sienna for so long, but she is at home with her grandmother and we know she is having a great time.

Last week, we took Sienna to the Elizabeth Street Garden Harvest Festival. She had a blast! She wore her pony ears and unicorn horn, decorated a pumpkin, and had her face painted.