From day one we were thought that bacteria are bad for us and that we should avoid them like the plague. We are made wash our hands, preserve our foods, and cover our mouths when we cough; all in a bid to prevent the dreaded bugs from making us ill. Now they’re telling us that some of them are actually good for us and that we should willingly eat them! The probiotic rising has begun but what exactly are they and why are they so good for us?
You may be alarmed to hear this but your gut is actually home to trillions of bacteria, some good but some not so good. In order to have a healthy digestive system there needs to be a balance between the two. Bad dietary habits (yes that includes your favourite battered cod in the local chippy!), medications and emotional upset all have a negative effect on the digestive system. These problems manifest themselves in the form of bloating, belching, flatulence, indigestion, diarrhoea and nausea but to name a few. Not to mention much more serious long term issues down the line such as Diverticulitis (painful, infected and inflamed pouches in the large intestine), Irritable Bowel Syndrome, and ulcer as a result of H pylori bacteria.
Enter probiotics. The theory behind including these food friendly bugs in the diet is that the will restore the equilibrium between threatening bugs and protective bugs. For example antibiotics basically wipe out all in their path, good and bad, so topping up on the friendly guys after a course is always a good idea.
But we must remember that these probiotics are living things so how can they survive all the processing that modern food must endure these days? This seems to be the question on everyone’s lips and the reason why so few strains of probiotic make it on the shelf in the form of a food product. Behind the successful launch of, ‘The Actimel challenge’, were ten years of research and 25 studies including test tube, animal and human trials. But boy were they worth it for Danone! The successful little bug that proved to survive all the way to the gut, decrease the duration of diarrhoea, increase the bodies defence response and generally improve gut health most certainly paid for itself a few times over! It seems the army of men who fight off the invaders have convinced men, women and children that Actimel provide, ‘natural goodness from the inside every morning.’ I must admit that even I have been lured into an Actimel a day!
Probiotics aren’t just found in milk products such as Actimel, Yakult or Everybody. There are ongoing debates regarding whether regular yogurt, cottage cheese, buttermilk and some beers all naturally contain probiotics. But they most certainly can be found in tablet form as a supplement or in other food products such as breakfast cereals, smoothies and juices. And I’m sure with a little more research we’ll soon see in just about everything.
Now that’s probiotics let’s delve a little into prebiotics. Prebiotics are basically food for probiotics. So by eating to boost up the number of probiotic bugs the same benefits can be enjoyed with regards to gut health. The tricky bit about prebiotics is that they must escape digestion in order to reach the gut bacteria and be of any use to them therefore they must be of a nondigestible nature. But that’s not the only shadow hanging over prebiotics. How can we be sure that they aren’t providing nutrition for both the good and bad bacteria? The answer is we can’t but this is an area where much research is focused at present in order to isolate food sources specific to the goodies.
If you fancy taking a chance on prebiotics stock up on oatmeal, whole grains, onions, greens vegetables, berries, bananas, peas and beans. If you haven’t the time to remember all of those in the supermarket why not pick up a supplement in your local health store. Or for an even more convenient healthy gut solution try a supplement with both probiotics and probiotics. Muller Vitality have a great new range out with both present and they even have omega 3 added in for good measure.
So whether you choose probiotics, prebiotics, a supplement or a one-a-day drink the promotion of friendly bacteria in your gut will most certainly be of benefit to your health.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
Naturopath-ally medicinal.
The term naturopath conjures up images of vegan hippies making daisy chains for fun and living on water and fresh air alone for fear of harming nature’s beautiful creations. The reality couldn’t be farther from the truth. According to The College of Naturopathic Medicine (CNM), “The term ‘Naturopath’ describes a practitioner who applies natural therapy”. A far more down to earth profession than originally imagined.
These natural healing practices include homeopathy, acupuncture, herbal medicine and everyone’s favourite colon hydrotherapy. Practitioners may be qualified in one or more of these natural health treatments and will use their skills to diagnose any illnesses or imbalances in the body and to treat them holistically. A holistic approach means that the body, mind and spiritual aspects of a person are all connected and that if one is out of sync it can affect the person as a whole. In other words if a person is treated holistically then the person is treated rather then their symptoms. In this way the root of the problem is revealed so as the problem will not manifest itself weeks, months or years down the line.
Think of a time when you had a terrible headache. Of course two painkillers will have done the trick but have you ever wondered why you got the headache in the first place? The problem could be diet related. Perhaps you consumed too much MSG, an additive found in Chinese food, chewing gum, crisps and many more foods. Or maybe the reason for your throbbing temples was because of the inconsolable baby howling all the way home on the bus. Or could it have been the four glasses of cola and a complete lack of water all day? The point I’m trying to emphasize here is that the headache could be due to one, two, none or all of these problems. Everybody is different and that’s why everyone’s treatment is completely unique.
A consultation with a naturopath usually takes around one hour. During this time he or she will get to know the person’s general state of health by asking questions about their medical history, diet and lifestyle and how they are feeling in general. Depending on the state of health of the patient the consultant will use Iridology which involves inspecting the iris (the coloured which determines eye colour), tongue analysis or a nail health check up to visually determine the patient’s health. Hair, stool or blood analysis can also be used. Finally a treatment plan is drawn up to cover all aspects of the person’s lifestyle. The plan may involve diet changes, the introduction of exercise for example Yoga, herbal medicine or homeopathic treatments i.e. Acupuncture.
So where can you try out this ancient holistic approach to healthcare? Luckily local Cork women Helen Drislane, Margie Lynch and Valerie Cooney have all recently graduated from CMN in the field of naturopathy. Helen, a mother and Chinese philosophy enthusiast was always fascinated with health and illness. Her interest led her to the CNM and she left the college a qualified acupuncturist and a naturopath. “I never cease to be amazed at the capacity for healing within the individual by applying natural means”. To find out more about Helen’s practice she can be reached on 087 6440006 or visit her clinic at Birchfield House, Naturopathic Clinic of Health & Wellbeing, Carrigaline, Cork.
Margie, a nurse with 20 years experience, picked a slightly different route and trained as a naturopath specialising in herbal medicine. “Herbs are nutritious, cleansing and regenerating. Herbs in conjunction with other remedies such as Bach Flower remedies, tissue salt and ear acupuncture play the main role in my practice, not forgetting dietary advice which is crucial”. Contact Margie on 086 2528627 or 021 4888750.
Valerie, a nurse on a surgical ward and a reflexologist, qualified a nutritional therapist and a naturopath. “I believe in the prevention of illness, rather than waiting for the illness to present itself. In this way, it may be possible to avoid medical investigations, surgery and long-term medication with multiple side effects, and a reduction in quality of life. Sometimes the medication is worse than the illness itself!”
Valerie presently has a small private practice which she hopes to shortly extend and in doing so open a clinic in Douglas. She is contactable on 086 8363849 for more information.
For more information on the CNM check out the website at www.naturopathy-ireland.com
These natural healing practices include homeopathy, acupuncture, herbal medicine and everyone’s favourite colon hydrotherapy. Practitioners may be qualified in one or more of these natural health treatments and will use their skills to diagnose any illnesses or imbalances in the body and to treat them holistically. A holistic approach means that the body, mind and spiritual aspects of a person are all connected and that if one is out of sync it can affect the person as a whole. In other words if a person is treated holistically then the person is treated rather then their symptoms. In this way the root of the problem is revealed so as the problem will not manifest itself weeks, months or years down the line.
Think of a time when you had a terrible headache. Of course two painkillers will have done the trick but have you ever wondered why you got the headache in the first place? The problem could be diet related. Perhaps you consumed too much MSG, an additive found in Chinese food, chewing gum, crisps and many more foods. Or maybe the reason for your throbbing temples was because of the inconsolable baby howling all the way home on the bus. Or could it have been the four glasses of cola and a complete lack of water all day? The point I’m trying to emphasize here is that the headache could be due to one, two, none or all of these problems. Everybody is different and that’s why everyone’s treatment is completely unique.
A consultation with a naturopath usually takes around one hour. During this time he or she will get to know the person’s general state of health by asking questions about their medical history, diet and lifestyle and how they are feeling in general. Depending on the state of health of the patient the consultant will use Iridology which involves inspecting the iris (the coloured which determines eye colour), tongue analysis or a nail health check up to visually determine the patient’s health. Hair, stool or blood analysis can also be used. Finally a treatment plan is drawn up to cover all aspects of the person’s lifestyle. The plan may involve diet changes, the introduction of exercise for example Yoga, herbal medicine or homeopathic treatments i.e. Acupuncture.
So where can you try out this ancient holistic approach to healthcare? Luckily local Cork women Helen Drislane, Margie Lynch and Valerie Cooney have all recently graduated from CMN in the field of naturopathy. Helen, a mother and Chinese philosophy enthusiast was always fascinated with health and illness. Her interest led her to the CNM and she left the college a qualified acupuncturist and a naturopath. “I never cease to be amazed at the capacity for healing within the individual by applying natural means”. To find out more about Helen’s practice she can be reached on 087 6440006 or visit her clinic at Birchfield House, Naturopathic Clinic of Health & Wellbeing, Carrigaline, Cork.
Margie, a nurse with 20 years experience, picked a slightly different route and trained as a naturopath specialising in herbal medicine. “Herbs are nutritious, cleansing and regenerating. Herbs in conjunction with other remedies such as Bach Flower remedies, tissue salt and ear acupuncture play the main role in my practice, not forgetting dietary advice which is crucial”. Contact Margie on 086 2528627 or 021 4888750.
Valerie, a nurse on a surgical ward and a reflexologist, qualified a nutritional therapist and a naturopath. “I believe in the prevention of illness, rather than waiting for the illness to present itself. In this way, it may be possible to avoid medical investigations, surgery and long-term medication with multiple side effects, and a reduction in quality of life. Sometimes the medication is worse than the illness itself!”
Valerie presently has a small private practice which she hopes to shortly extend and in doing so open a clinic in Douglas. She is contactable on 086 8363849 for more information.
For more information on the CNM check out the website at www.naturopathy-ireland.com
Is TB back?
Tuberculosis, more commonly known as TB, conjures up images of weakened, spluttering and coughing folk of old day Ireland. In the 1950’s there were nearly 7000 cases a year but the number of cases has declined steadily since then. According to the Health Service Executive (HSE) for the decade up to 2004 the Cork-Kerry area experienced a downward trend in reported TB cases. Between 1995 and 2004 there was a 32% drop in disclosed TB cases in the area. But recent reports have highlighted its return in the most dreaded of places; a Cork crèche on Thursday 15th March. As a result five children and one adult were referred for further investigation.
Tuberculosis is caused by a bug called Mycobacterium Tuberculosis and it mostly affects the lungs but it has been found in many parts of the body including the glands and more rarely the brain. The germ is passed on from one person to another by simply breathing in the air that an infected person has coughed in. Symptoms are much like the common flu in the initial stages and include;
· Fever and night sweats.
· Chills.
· Weakness or fatigue.
· Pain in the chest.
· A cough that lasts more than two weeks.
· Weight loss.
· No appetite.
· Blood in coughed up phlegm.
Infection with the TB bug may not necessarily develop into Tuberculosis. Most people will be able to fight the bacterium but a small proportion may not be so lucky. If you have a low immune system then you are a high risk of catching the infection as your body simply won’t be able to fight off the bug. Children, the elderly, diabetics, those on steroids or other drugs, cancer or HIV positive patients or those who have chronic health problems should all be particularly wary.
TB can be either latent or active. Latent Tuberculosis will remain dormant in the body and become active at a later stage. The carrier may experience no symptoms, not feel any way sick at all and can not pass the disease onto others. On the downside there is a 5% chance that the disease may develop if the carrier’s immune system is low. This is known as active Tuberculosis. An active TB sufferer will have the above symptoms and can spread TB on to others such as in the case of the Cork crèche. People in close contact with a person who has active lung TB are at a high risk of catching the disease. A family member, work colleague or, in the case of the crèche, a teacher or class mate are all possible close encounters.
So how can you protect yourself and your family? Surely there is a vaccine nowadays. Enter the BCG vaccine. The vaccine is used in countries where a high prevalence of TB. It should be administered to new born babies but can also be given to older children and adults who are at risk of developing the disease. But this doesn’t explain why the vaccine is routinely given to all newborn babies in the country excluding Cork. According to the (HSE) a group has been set up in Cork during 2007 to progress the roll out of routine vaccinations for newborns. Perhaps the recent events in Little Island will push the progress a little faster.
The disease is diagnosed by means of a skin test, a chest X-ray, a test of phlegm and/or a blood or urine test. The results of the skin test are read in two to three days and a positive test does not necessarily mean that the patient has TB. Once a death sentence TB is today potentially completely curable. An antibiotic course will kill off the bug if taken in its full course of treatment. The minimum treatment is six months.
So to answer the question on everybody’s lips; will there be a TB outbreak in Cork? Very doubtful in today’s society with high quality medicines on our side but the events in Panda Paws crèche have highlighted a flaw in the current disease prevention system in Cork at the expense of five children and one adult’s good health. Although their diagnosis doesn’t necessarily mean that they will contract the disease how would you feel if you were told that your chances of catching TB had been upped? A little unhappy to say the least I’d assume.
Tuberculosis is caused by a bug called Mycobacterium Tuberculosis and it mostly affects the lungs but it has been found in many parts of the body including the glands and more rarely the brain. The germ is passed on from one person to another by simply breathing in the air that an infected person has coughed in. Symptoms are much like the common flu in the initial stages and include;
· Fever and night sweats.
· Chills.
· Weakness or fatigue.
· Pain in the chest.
· A cough that lasts more than two weeks.
· Weight loss.
· No appetite.
· Blood in coughed up phlegm.
Infection with the TB bug may not necessarily develop into Tuberculosis. Most people will be able to fight the bacterium but a small proportion may not be so lucky. If you have a low immune system then you are a high risk of catching the infection as your body simply won’t be able to fight off the bug. Children, the elderly, diabetics, those on steroids or other drugs, cancer or HIV positive patients or those who have chronic health problems should all be particularly wary.
TB can be either latent or active. Latent Tuberculosis will remain dormant in the body and become active at a later stage. The carrier may experience no symptoms, not feel any way sick at all and can not pass the disease onto others. On the downside there is a 5% chance that the disease may develop if the carrier’s immune system is low. This is known as active Tuberculosis. An active TB sufferer will have the above symptoms and can spread TB on to others such as in the case of the Cork crèche. People in close contact with a person who has active lung TB are at a high risk of catching the disease. A family member, work colleague or, in the case of the crèche, a teacher or class mate are all possible close encounters.
So how can you protect yourself and your family? Surely there is a vaccine nowadays. Enter the BCG vaccine. The vaccine is used in countries where a high prevalence of TB. It should be administered to new born babies but can also be given to older children and adults who are at risk of developing the disease. But this doesn’t explain why the vaccine is routinely given to all newborn babies in the country excluding Cork. According to the (HSE) a group has been set up in Cork during 2007 to progress the roll out of routine vaccinations for newborns. Perhaps the recent events in Little Island will push the progress a little faster.
The disease is diagnosed by means of a skin test, a chest X-ray, a test of phlegm and/or a blood or urine test. The results of the skin test are read in two to three days and a positive test does not necessarily mean that the patient has TB. Once a death sentence TB is today potentially completely curable. An antibiotic course will kill off the bug if taken in its full course of treatment. The minimum treatment is six months.
So to answer the question on everybody’s lips; will there be a TB outbreak in Cork? Very doubtful in today’s society with high quality medicines on our side but the events in Panda Paws crèche have highlighted a flaw in the current disease prevention system in Cork at the expense of five children and one adult’s good health. Although their diagnosis doesn’t necessarily mean that they will contract the disease how would you feel if you were told that your chances of catching TB had been upped? A little unhappy to say the least I’d assume.
Look into my eyes.
When it comes to hypnosis most would envision a stage, an over the top hypnotist/actor-type character and an attention seeking volunteer running around flapping their arms like a chicken and generally making a fool of themselves.
A situation the majority of us would rather avoid than deliberately draw on ourselves but as Tayto so wisely put it, ‘There’s always one!’
This stereotypical scene has resulted in the general assumption that hypnosis is a type of magic or for entertainment purposes only. One naturally assumes that swinging pendulums and eerily cloaked performer announcing, “Look into my eyes,” are involved in the art. This couldn’t be further from the truth.
“This is often the misconception about hypnotherapy,” John Cantwell, hypnotherapist psychotherapist and hypno-analyst of Changes Hypnotherapy Clinic informs me as I settle back into the big comfortable leather ‘lazy boy’ in his small but cosy office, “Hypnosis is self hypnosis therefore it’s a meditative state. You are probably more aware in hypnosis than you are when you’re awake! The participant must be willing to be hypnotised and is in complete control.”
Thus stage hypnosis could be described as a little far fetched to say the least and perhaps a bit on the dramatic side.” It can take up to thirty minutes to put a person in to trance therefore the performers on television shows must have been hypnotised before hand and must be willing to be hypnotised,” he tells me knowingly, “Stage hypnosis is unethical.”
John Cantwell is a member in good standing with ICHP (Institute of Clinical Hypnotherapy & Psychotherapy) and states that all members of ICHP are bound to a Code of Ethics; Practice & Standards which bans stage hypnotism as it is casts a dark shadow over the otherwise therapeutic profession.
Hypnosis as a therapy is far more honourable and can be described as a state of deep relaxation, much like a day dream, in which the mind and awareness increase but remains relaxed. It is used to treat people for problems ranging from blushing to depression. The therapy can be broken down into suggestion hypnotherapy and analytical hypnotherapy.
Suggestion hypnotherapy does not reveal the root cause of the problem but it is useful in the breaking of habits such as smoking and nail biting. It can also aid in the calming of pre-test nerves, slimming, relaxation and confidence boosting. It requires only one to four sessions with perhaps a booster later on.
Analytical hypnotherapy is helpful in uncovering the causes of psychological problems. It is used for deeper rooted issues such as anxiety, eating disorders, sleep disorders and panic attacks. “We are talking about a complete and lasting release by finding and removing originating causes as opposed to mere control of symptoms by suggestion.” describes Cantwell. The subconscious mind is accessed in order to positively suggest, visualise and re-learn past abilities and strengths. The conscious mind is by-passed like an old town.
“After a number of sessions of analytical hypnotherapy the subconscious starts to release information leading to the originating cause or ‘root cause’ of the problem”, says John.
Hypnotherapy can even be used to treat the pesky daily disturbance that is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a disorder of the bowel resulting in lack of rhythmic movement in the large intestine and leading to much discomfort pain. Stress is a major cause of IBS but the good news is that stress is very much treatable by hypnosis. According to Michael Mahoney, one of the UK’s leading clinical hypnotherapists in his field IBS patients can be assured that nothing serious is wrong with the bowel with the use of hypnosis resulting to a decrease in symptoms. Check out http://www.ibs-register.co.uk/ to learn more on his highly acclaimed IBS Audio Program 100.
“Hypnosis is everywhere! It is used for pain relief during childbirth, sports motivation and anaesthetic for surgery. Hypnosis has been used in amputations to the emergency room to dealing with dental phobias,” concludes John.
Log onto http://www.drjackgibson.com/ to learn more on the man who has helped people stop smoking, drinking, and of course enabled operations to be performed on over 4,000 patients without the use of anaesthetic. The late hypnotist also has a fascinating range of books, CD’s and tapes available for specific phobias or problems.
It seems that the advantages of hypnosis are endless and constantly increasing with studies continuously proving the therapy’s competence in more and more areas. The therapy, which is somewhat accepted by the medical world, is currently in the process of being registered. Let’s hope as a result its expansion and acceptance will continue in the near future.
For more information on hypnosis log onto www.myhypnotist.ie or call John Cantwell on 021-4346211 to arrange a free introductory consultation.
A situation the majority of us would rather avoid than deliberately draw on ourselves but as Tayto so wisely put it, ‘There’s always one!’
This stereotypical scene has resulted in the general assumption that hypnosis is a type of magic or for entertainment purposes only. One naturally assumes that swinging pendulums and eerily cloaked performer announcing, “Look into my eyes,” are involved in the art. This couldn’t be further from the truth.
“This is often the misconception about hypnotherapy,” John Cantwell, hypnotherapist psychotherapist and hypno-analyst of Changes Hypnotherapy Clinic informs me as I settle back into the big comfortable leather ‘lazy boy’ in his small but cosy office, “Hypnosis is self hypnosis therefore it’s a meditative state. You are probably more aware in hypnosis than you are when you’re awake! The participant must be willing to be hypnotised and is in complete control.”
Thus stage hypnosis could be described as a little far fetched to say the least and perhaps a bit on the dramatic side.” It can take up to thirty minutes to put a person in to trance therefore the performers on television shows must have been hypnotised before hand and must be willing to be hypnotised,” he tells me knowingly, “Stage hypnosis is unethical.”
John Cantwell is a member in good standing with ICHP (Institute of Clinical Hypnotherapy & Psychotherapy) and states that all members of ICHP are bound to a Code of Ethics; Practice & Standards which bans stage hypnotism as it is casts a dark shadow over the otherwise therapeutic profession.
Hypnosis as a therapy is far more honourable and can be described as a state of deep relaxation, much like a day dream, in which the mind and awareness increase but remains relaxed. It is used to treat people for problems ranging from blushing to depression. The therapy can be broken down into suggestion hypnotherapy and analytical hypnotherapy.
Suggestion hypnotherapy does not reveal the root cause of the problem but it is useful in the breaking of habits such as smoking and nail biting. It can also aid in the calming of pre-test nerves, slimming, relaxation and confidence boosting. It requires only one to four sessions with perhaps a booster later on.
Analytical hypnotherapy is helpful in uncovering the causes of psychological problems. It is used for deeper rooted issues such as anxiety, eating disorders, sleep disorders and panic attacks. “We are talking about a complete and lasting release by finding and removing originating causes as opposed to mere control of symptoms by suggestion.” describes Cantwell. The subconscious mind is accessed in order to positively suggest, visualise and re-learn past abilities and strengths. The conscious mind is by-passed like an old town.
“After a number of sessions of analytical hypnotherapy the subconscious starts to release information leading to the originating cause or ‘root cause’ of the problem”, says John.
Hypnotherapy can even be used to treat the pesky daily disturbance that is irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS is a disorder of the bowel resulting in lack of rhythmic movement in the large intestine and leading to much discomfort pain. Stress is a major cause of IBS but the good news is that stress is very much treatable by hypnosis. According to Michael Mahoney, one of the UK’s leading clinical hypnotherapists in his field IBS patients can be assured that nothing serious is wrong with the bowel with the use of hypnosis resulting to a decrease in symptoms. Check out http://www.ibs-register.co.uk/ to learn more on his highly acclaimed IBS Audio Program 100.
“Hypnosis is everywhere! It is used for pain relief during childbirth, sports motivation and anaesthetic for surgery. Hypnosis has been used in amputations to the emergency room to dealing with dental phobias,” concludes John.
Log onto http://www.drjackgibson.com/ to learn more on the man who has helped people stop smoking, drinking, and of course enabled operations to be performed on over 4,000 patients without the use of anaesthetic. The late hypnotist also has a fascinating range of books, CD’s and tapes available for specific phobias or problems.
It seems that the advantages of hypnosis are endless and constantly increasing with studies continuously proving the therapy’s competence in more and more areas. The therapy, which is somewhat accepted by the medical world, is currently in the process of being registered. Let’s hope as a result its expansion and acceptance will continue in the near future.
For more information on hypnosis log onto www.myhypnotist.ie or call John Cantwell on 021-4346211 to arrange a free introductory consultation.
A new lease of life for best friend Elke.
“Within a matter of a fortnight she wouldn’t have been able to swallow and the tumour would have spread”
Cutting edge research at Cork Cancer Research Centre (CCRC) has given one Bandon dog a second chance at life. Elke, a gentle natured seven year old part Elkhound, had an aggressive tumour deep set in her jaw and the gentle dog’s future seemed bleak to worried owner Grace. But all was not lost as persistent Riverview Veterinary Clinic Gavin Russell pursued the case and discovered the innovative new treatment Electro-chemotherapy developed by CCRC scientists. The therapy would ultimately save beloved family pet Elke’s life. I visited the miracle dog and her proud owner to find out more…
On stepping out of my car I was introduced at once to the somewhat gaunt Elke as she bounded towards me only to stop nervously by my side, head tilted and brown eyes questioning. “Elke is very nervous due to her childhood”, Grace informed me sadly. “She was tied to a tree and left alone before being taken to West Cork Animal Welfare Group where I got her.” My heart melted as the playful pouch nuzzled up to me and I patted her thin frame which her chatty owner explained was as a result of dramatic weight loss due to the obstructive tumour in her mouth.
“The vet in the Riverview Clinic thought he would be doing a dental operation but he found a tumour. He said it was very advanced and inoperable due to its location,” explained Grace. Distraught Grace thought that she would loose her treasured hound when the tale took an unexpected turn for the better. “Then he rang to say he’d been talking to the Gilabbey Veterinary Hospital about the case and that they were in the process of trying out a new treatment,” she said, the relief showing on her face.
The new treatment which has put Elke on the road to recovery is called electro-chemotherapy. The treatment has proven successful with topical cancers such as skin cancer and CCRC researchers were keen to try the revolutionary therapy out on a dog in exactly Elke’s situation. “I was just in the right place at the right time.” Grace gratefully tells me.
Basically an electrical pulse is applied to the tumour once a drug, known as Bleomycin, has been injected locally. “This allows the drug to enter the tumour at a much higher rate then it would otherwise. The treatment targets skin based tumours by increasing the absorption of the drug by means of applying a short intense pulse.” Dr Declan Soden, general manager of the CCRC
Benefits of the treatment include a decrease in the concentration of drugs in the body in comparison to other cancer fighting therapies such as Chemotherapy. There are no known side effects experienced. The therapy has been tried and tested from the lab to small animal trials and is being offered as a last resort to per owners such as Grace. Today the therapy has moved to clinical trials which mean that it is being tested on human volunteers as seen on Nationwide recently. It is currently being further researched to determine whether it can be expanded to treat internal cancers such as such as cancer of the colon.
The treatment really is an amazing discovery and for pets such as Elke a second lease of life. “Within a matter of a fortnight she wouldn’t have been able to swallow. The tumour would have spread and she would probably have died. It was a win win. She may live for many years now.” For owner Grace it has bought her more cherished and valuable time with her best friend Elke.
Cutting edge research at Cork Cancer Research Centre (CCRC) has given one Bandon dog a second chance at life. Elke, a gentle natured seven year old part Elkhound, had an aggressive tumour deep set in her jaw and the gentle dog’s future seemed bleak to worried owner Grace. But all was not lost as persistent Riverview Veterinary Clinic Gavin Russell pursued the case and discovered the innovative new treatment Electro-chemotherapy developed by CCRC scientists. The therapy would ultimately save beloved family pet Elke’s life. I visited the miracle dog and her proud owner to find out more…
On stepping out of my car I was introduced at once to the somewhat gaunt Elke as she bounded towards me only to stop nervously by my side, head tilted and brown eyes questioning. “Elke is very nervous due to her childhood”, Grace informed me sadly. “She was tied to a tree and left alone before being taken to West Cork Animal Welfare Group where I got her.” My heart melted as the playful pouch nuzzled up to me and I patted her thin frame which her chatty owner explained was as a result of dramatic weight loss due to the obstructive tumour in her mouth.
“The vet in the Riverview Clinic thought he would be doing a dental operation but he found a tumour. He said it was very advanced and inoperable due to its location,” explained Grace. Distraught Grace thought that she would loose her treasured hound when the tale took an unexpected turn for the better. “Then he rang to say he’d been talking to the Gilabbey Veterinary Hospital about the case and that they were in the process of trying out a new treatment,” she said, the relief showing on her face.
The new treatment which has put Elke on the road to recovery is called electro-chemotherapy. The treatment has proven successful with topical cancers such as skin cancer and CCRC researchers were keen to try the revolutionary therapy out on a dog in exactly Elke’s situation. “I was just in the right place at the right time.” Grace gratefully tells me.
Basically an electrical pulse is applied to the tumour once a drug, known as Bleomycin, has been injected locally. “This allows the drug to enter the tumour at a much higher rate then it would otherwise. The treatment targets skin based tumours by increasing the absorption of the drug by means of applying a short intense pulse.” Dr Declan Soden, general manager of the CCRC
Benefits of the treatment include a decrease in the concentration of drugs in the body in comparison to other cancer fighting therapies such as Chemotherapy. There are no known side effects experienced. The therapy has been tried and tested from the lab to small animal trials and is being offered as a last resort to per owners such as Grace. Today the therapy has moved to clinical trials which mean that it is being tested on human volunteers as seen on Nationwide recently. It is currently being further researched to determine whether it can be expanded to treat internal cancers such as such as cancer of the colon.
The treatment really is an amazing discovery and for pets such as Elke a second lease of life. “Within a matter of a fortnight she wouldn’t have been able to swallow. The tumour would have spread and she would probably have died. It was a win win. She may live for many years now.” For owner Grace it has bought her more cherished and valuable time with her best friend Elke.
Cutting edge research at Cork Cancer Research Centre.
According to the Irish Cancer Society (ICS) cancer affects one in three people in Ireland during the average lifetime. Sadly the likelihood is that you will know someone who has been or will be a victim of this destructive disease. So the next time a pink ribbon donation is in order dig deep, as you could be investing in your own or loved ones future treatment.
The term cancer describes a number of different illnesses characterized by abnormal growth and spread of cells. This overgrowth of cells can form a tumour and these tumours can be either benign or malignant. Benign tumours don’t invade surrounding tissue and spread therefore they are not life threatening although they will should be removed as they can cause problems. Malignant tumours have a goal to maliciously spread themselves as far as they can and are extremely hazardous to health. They leach into the lymph system or blood supply and effectively poison other organs and systems over time causing them to fail and resulting in death. These are the guys that we need to be wary of and they are being constantly monitored and researched in cancer research labs and centres all over the world.
So what’s going on with regards to cancer research under our very noses here in Cork city? I visited Dr Declan Soden, General Manager of Cork Cancer Research Centre (CCRC) to find out more…
The CCRC was established by Professor Gerald O’ Sullivan in 1999 in order to form a partnership between UCC and Cork University Hospitals. Under the director are 25 researchers, all with a common goal, to develop new, less invasive treatments for Cancer patients. “The activities of the centre include screening, prevention and early detection of the disease”, Dr Declan Soden advises me on the work of the organisation. With regards to screening there is a clinic in operation in The Mercy Hospital, which is funded by the centre, to identify people who are at a high risk of developing colorectal cancer. “Basically people under the age of fifty who have colorectal cancer are contacted and it is their direct family that are targeted to allow for early detection of the disease. If cancerous cells are found during the early stages of the disease it is very treatable and curable”, Dr Declan Soden, informed me.
And that’s only to start with. A preventative study is ongoing at present involving a ‘chemo-preventative agent’ called curcumin, a dye found in curries. The component has been found to have very potent anti-carcinogenic properties and it has also been seen to decrease the risk of colorectal and oesophageal cancer. So now there’s and excuse to tuck into a good old curry more often!
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg! The most active areas of research at the clinic are less invasive surgery and gene therapy. “We have just received permission from The Irish Medicines Board to do gene therapy in patients which will be the first of its kind in this country”, Dr Soden tells me. Gene therapy and less invasive therapy are two separate studies but Dr Declan Soden is hopeful that in a few years the therapies will be used to complement each other in the fight to cure cancer. The method is far less invasive manner than chemotherapy, radiography and surgery. “When you look at it from a research perspective, patients have billions of cells in their body. Chemotherapy affects all cells, normally most actively growing cells such as hair cells”, he explains. All of these innocent cells will be protected during treatment using this new, innovative treatment whilst cancer cells will be killed.
The first step in the two part treatment is electro-chemotherapy using the drug Bleomycin. The electric pulse allows for the tumour to be targeted specifically allowing for the drug level to be toxic in this area only and thus allowing for no side effects around the surrounding tissues and in the body. As a result of the drug being injected directly into the tumour it will shrink. Gene therapy will then be used afterwards to boost the body’s immune system and prevent secondary cancer from forming. Basically the scientific strategy behind gene therapy is to manipulate the body’s immune response against cancer rather than relying on drugs and chemotherapy. This truly innovative treatment has been successful in treating skin cancers in clinical trials but the researchers at CCRC are looking into expanding the treatment to treat internal cancers.
The future is bright but the research is unfortunately expensive and securing funding money is a constant battle for the centre. Although some of the ongoing research in Cork at present is part funded by the Cancer Research Ireland (CRI), the research division of the ICS, much of the funding comes from grant authorities, the Irish Department of Health and Children, the UCC Foundation, corporate donors and fundraising events. Dr Soden, “Without the driving force of the fundraising events CCRC just wouldn’t be in operation.” So if you want to donate to cancer research in Cork directly or if you have any ideas on fundraising contact Declan Soden on 021 4901335 or d.soden@ucc.ie
The term cancer describes a number of different illnesses characterized by abnormal growth and spread of cells. This overgrowth of cells can form a tumour and these tumours can be either benign or malignant. Benign tumours don’t invade surrounding tissue and spread therefore they are not life threatening although they will should be removed as they can cause problems. Malignant tumours have a goal to maliciously spread themselves as far as they can and are extremely hazardous to health. They leach into the lymph system or blood supply and effectively poison other organs and systems over time causing them to fail and resulting in death. These are the guys that we need to be wary of and they are being constantly monitored and researched in cancer research labs and centres all over the world.
So what’s going on with regards to cancer research under our very noses here in Cork city? I visited Dr Declan Soden, General Manager of Cork Cancer Research Centre (CCRC) to find out more…
The CCRC was established by Professor Gerald O’ Sullivan in 1999 in order to form a partnership between UCC and Cork University Hospitals. Under the director are 25 researchers, all with a common goal, to develop new, less invasive treatments for Cancer patients. “The activities of the centre include screening, prevention and early detection of the disease”, Dr Declan Soden advises me on the work of the organisation. With regards to screening there is a clinic in operation in The Mercy Hospital, which is funded by the centre, to identify people who are at a high risk of developing colorectal cancer. “Basically people under the age of fifty who have colorectal cancer are contacted and it is their direct family that are targeted to allow for early detection of the disease. If cancerous cells are found during the early stages of the disease it is very treatable and curable”, Dr Declan Soden, informed me.
And that’s only to start with. A preventative study is ongoing at present involving a ‘chemo-preventative agent’ called curcumin, a dye found in curries. The component has been found to have very potent anti-carcinogenic properties and it has also been seen to decrease the risk of colorectal and oesophageal cancer. So now there’s and excuse to tuck into a good old curry more often!
But that’s just the tip of the iceberg! The most active areas of research at the clinic are less invasive surgery and gene therapy. “We have just received permission from The Irish Medicines Board to do gene therapy in patients which will be the first of its kind in this country”, Dr Soden tells me. Gene therapy and less invasive therapy are two separate studies but Dr Declan Soden is hopeful that in a few years the therapies will be used to complement each other in the fight to cure cancer. The method is far less invasive manner than chemotherapy, radiography and surgery. “When you look at it from a research perspective, patients have billions of cells in their body. Chemotherapy affects all cells, normally most actively growing cells such as hair cells”, he explains. All of these innocent cells will be protected during treatment using this new, innovative treatment whilst cancer cells will be killed.
The first step in the two part treatment is electro-chemotherapy using the drug Bleomycin. The electric pulse allows for the tumour to be targeted specifically allowing for the drug level to be toxic in this area only and thus allowing for no side effects around the surrounding tissues and in the body. As a result of the drug being injected directly into the tumour it will shrink. Gene therapy will then be used afterwards to boost the body’s immune system and prevent secondary cancer from forming. Basically the scientific strategy behind gene therapy is to manipulate the body’s immune response against cancer rather than relying on drugs and chemotherapy. This truly innovative treatment has been successful in treating skin cancers in clinical trials but the researchers at CCRC are looking into expanding the treatment to treat internal cancers.
The future is bright but the research is unfortunately expensive and securing funding money is a constant battle for the centre. Although some of the ongoing research in Cork at present is part funded by the Cancer Research Ireland (CRI), the research division of the ICS, much of the funding comes from grant authorities, the Irish Department of Health and Children, the UCC Foundation, corporate donors and fundraising events. Dr Soden, “Without the driving force of the fundraising events CCRC just wouldn’t be in operation.” So if you want to donate to cancer research in Cork directly or if you have any ideas on fundraising contact Declan Soden on 021 4901335 or d.soden@ucc.ie
Acupuncture; an ancient route to balanced health.
In ancient China acupuncture was the main medicine used before the spread of Western medicine. The early Chinese communist party questioned the ancient medicine calling it superstitious, ridiculous and backward and encouraged the integration of conventional medicine. Nowadays our society is beginning to revisit these ancient times and use more traditional and alternative health treatments such as acupuncture. The launch of The Acupuncture Council of Ireland in June 2006 by Minister for Health Mary Harney T.D. is a reflection of this change. I visited Rossadale Medical Centre in Bishopstown to find out more.
Gary Murphy is a qualified acupuncturist since 1978. But Gary wasn’t the only Murphy to rebalance chi for a living. His father Kerry Murphy was the first traditionally qualified acupuncturist in Ireland in 1960. As a young child Gary was fascinated with his fathers work and vowed to follow in the footsteps of his talented father. And that’s exactly what he did. He presently works from his own practice in Bishopstown where his exuberant energy entertains his clients as he rebalances theirs.
But what is acupuncture all about? To understand the art of acupuncture it’s necessary to think outside the box. In school we learn of the different systems the body is made up of; the circulatory, excretory, digestive and so on. But what of the energy our body is made up of? This energy is known as chi and runs along unseen paths called meridians. When an illness or health condition occurs it is due to an imbalance in the energy distributed throughout the body. This imbalance or blockage will manifest itself as a headache, migraine, depression or skin problem, the list is endless. Acupuncture is effectively the balancing of this chi through the insertion of needles at specific meridians. ‘We are trying to create a balance in the system’, says Gary, ‘An acupuncturist would never claim to cure any condition or illness. They will stimulate the bodies own natural healing process. That is not to say that acupuncture can not treat any condition or illness but the success with some can be more effective than with others. A condition which has been worsening over thirty years may not be as treatable as a three week old injury or illness but acupuncture will certainly alleviate the symptoms.’
So what does a treatment entail? Gary diagnoses the condition using pulse points on the wrist. These points correspond to the organs in the body and a weak pulse indicates an imbalance in the complementary organ. ‘The pulses tell us the strength of chi which is the life force within the organs internally. Because the system is a complete unit the pulses should all read the same. When they don’t I know something is wrong’. Once an imbalance is diagnosed extremely fine needles are placed in the acupuncture points barely under the skin. This may seem daunting but trust me it’s not painful. ‘For organic problems the less needles applied the better and the more specific the treatment’, Gary tells me as I question the lone needle on my knee, ‘The wiring system on the knee taps into problems involving the liver, stomach, spleen, bladder and kidneys. The arms contain meridians for the lungs, heart, colon, intestines and circulatory system. The other 950 meridians scattered around the body are used in conjunction with these points to improve the quality of the energy. Acupuncture is also great for treating muscular problems as it deals with all aspects of the problem at the same time i.e. muscular tightness, nerve pain and inflammation of the tissue. We can use as many needles as we like in a given area as the condition is not specific’.
Gary recommends 6-8 treatments but stresses that the duration of treatments differs with the severity of the condition. ‘A sports injury can be sorted out and this is where the story ends for the patient and me. An organic problem can reoccur more easily therefore it is a good idea to have a couple of sessions a year as a preventative measure once an imbalance has been sorted.’ It is important to note that since acupuncture is essentially a detoxifying process therefore symptoms can worsen at the beginning of a treatment as the problem comes to the surface. ‘This is perfectly normal’, Gary tells me, ‘And shows that the body is beginning to heal itself. Once your system balances out you will feel good about yourself both inside and out’.
Research is ongoing with regards to acupuncture. The University Medical Centre in Berlin concluded that acupuncture can help ease the pain of arthritis and that patients were seen to enjoy a better quality of life as a result of 15 sessions of acupuncture. Of course this is just one of many studies and many are sure to follow. With the increasing awareness of alternative health treatments in today’s society the vast range of ailments acupuncture can relieve are sure to be soon researched and revealed. A session with Gary costs €30.00 and you can contact his surgery on 021 4342000.
Gary Murphy is a qualified acupuncturist since 1978. But Gary wasn’t the only Murphy to rebalance chi for a living. His father Kerry Murphy was the first traditionally qualified acupuncturist in Ireland in 1960. As a young child Gary was fascinated with his fathers work and vowed to follow in the footsteps of his talented father. And that’s exactly what he did. He presently works from his own practice in Bishopstown where his exuberant energy entertains his clients as he rebalances theirs.
But what is acupuncture all about? To understand the art of acupuncture it’s necessary to think outside the box. In school we learn of the different systems the body is made up of; the circulatory, excretory, digestive and so on. But what of the energy our body is made up of? This energy is known as chi and runs along unseen paths called meridians. When an illness or health condition occurs it is due to an imbalance in the energy distributed throughout the body. This imbalance or blockage will manifest itself as a headache, migraine, depression or skin problem, the list is endless. Acupuncture is effectively the balancing of this chi through the insertion of needles at specific meridians. ‘We are trying to create a balance in the system’, says Gary, ‘An acupuncturist would never claim to cure any condition or illness. They will stimulate the bodies own natural healing process. That is not to say that acupuncture can not treat any condition or illness but the success with some can be more effective than with others. A condition which has been worsening over thirty years may not be as treatable as a three week old injury or illness but acupuncture will certainly alleviate the symptoms.’
So what does a treatment entail? Gary diagnoses the condition using pulse points on the wrist. These points correspond to the organs in the body and a weak pulse indicates an imbalance in the complementary organ. ‘The pulses tell us the strength of chi which is the life force within the organs internally. Because the system is a complete unit the pulses should all read the same. When they don’t I know something is wrong’. Once an imbalance is diagnosed extremely fine needles are placed in the acupuncture points barely under the skin. This may seem daunting but trust me it’s not painful. ‘For organic problems the less needles applied the better and the more specific the treatment’, Gary tells me as I question the lone needle on my knee, ‘The wiring system on the knee taps into problems involving the liver, stomach, spleen, bladder and kidneys. The arms contain meridians for the lungs, heart, colon, intestines and circulatory system. The other 950 meridians scattered around the body are used in conjunction with these points to improve the quality of the energy. Acupuncture is also great for treating muscular problems as it deals with all aspects of the problem at the same time i.e. muscular tightness, nerve pain and inflammation of the tissue. We can use as many needles as we like in a given area as the condition is not specific’.
Gary recommends 6-8 treatments but stresses that the duration of treatments differs with the severity of the condition. ‘A sports injury can be sorted out and this is where the story ends for the patient and me. An organic problem can reoccur more easily therefore it is a good idea to have a couple of sessions a year as a preventative measure once an imbalance has been sorted.’ It is important to note that since acupuncture is essentially a detoxifying process therefore symptoms can worsen at the beginning of a treatment as the problem comes to the surface. ‘This is perfectly normal’, Gary tells me, ‘And shows that the body is beginning to heal itself. Once your system balances out you will feel good about yourself both inside and out’.
Research is ongoing with regards to acupuncture. The University Medical Centre in Berlin concluded that acupuncture can help ease the pain of arthritis and that patients were seen to enjoy a better quality of life as a result of 15 sessions of acupuncture. Of course this is just one of many studies and many are sure to follow. With the increasing awareness of alternative health treatments in today’s society the vast range of ailments acupuncture can relieve are sure to be soon researched and revealed. A session with Gary costs €30.00 and you can contact his surgery on 021 4342000.
Meditation at Big Moon Cottage, Castletownshend.
Meditation is an ancient practice which can balance physically, emotionally and mentally. It really isn’t just the most religious and spiritual of folk who can benefit from the ancient technique. I visited Susan O’Brien at Big Moon Cottage Meditation Centre in West Cork to find out more…
Big Moon Cottage is a pretty white-washed cottage hidden amongst the unspoilt rugged landscape of our very own West Cork. The hinterland is speckled with winding rivers and country shrubs and just oozes relaxation and simplicity a short walk from the Atlantic Ocean. City smog was a distant memory as I stepped out of my car and breathed in the fresh, crisp air. Upon arrival I received a warm welcome from the vibrant Susan and felt immediately at home in her warmly decorated country home. Like an Aladdin’s cave of treasures Susan’s little cottage was home to musical wind chimes, dinky ornaments, cluttered bookshelves and pine, stone and woven furniture giving it a really homely feel. As I donned my slippers and sipped herbal tea I soaked in the tranquil surroundings and opened my mind to the experience that lay ahead. My fears of intense meditation were immediately relieved as Susan gently outlined what the course would entail and I allowed myself to settle into the comfy couch and be taken back in time…
Throughout history meditation has been a common practise among many religions and cultures. It was used as a tool for enlightenment by many religious sects from India to China and Japan and also by Western monks. Extreme mediators would focus their thoughts and minds on certain objects, words and phrases for up to 14 hours to achieve spiritual awareness and more informed ways of thinking. Sound a bit far out? Fear not as today meditation is geared towards relaxation and stress management as well as spiritual development and mediators need not believe in any religion at all! As Susan says, “If you practise it, it works”.
According to Susan the two twenty minute sessions are like a premium fuel to the body, mind and spirit. I allow my hands to rest on an amazingly soft fluffy cushion as Susan explains how the physical process of meditation has the opposite effect on the body as stress. “When we are stressed our heart rate increases, our breathing becomes faster, sugars and fats are released into the bloodstream in a ‘fight and flight response’, digestion comes to a halt and the body sweats to cool itself,” she tells me, leaning forward enthusiastically, “In meditation the metabolic rate slows down and brings a state of rest that, according to studies, is deeper than deep sleep.”
Other functions in the body are also affected such as a decrease in oxygen consumption, heart rate, cardiac output and changes in blood chemistry. And it’s not only the physical body that gets a vacation during meditation. Scientific studies have also shown that meditation can promote balance between the left and right hemispheres of the brain. Thus there is a decrease in anxiety and an increase in stability and adaptability.
Emotionally meditation is like a filter as it strains ‘mud out of murky water’ (the stress and fear within us). “Fear is the thing which stops many of us from wanting to go deeper. There is nothing to fear,” Susan assures me, “We find, in time, that our suffering was the ‘door’ to our deeper self and that the very same suffering opened us up in a way that nothing else could. Beyond that we are truly alive within our own peace.” Thus the art of meditation enables the mind to think clearer and therefore helps the mediator to deal with everyday problems rather than storing them away and harbouring negativity. Over time meditation can help the individual deal with deeper issues and problems. For those attending counselling, this can be a great way to assist you in getting the most from your therapy.
Susan teaches the technique of focusing on a word that has no significance (a mantra, a sound), thus enabling the mind to move away from any streams of thought. Although niggling thoughts kept creeping into my mind it really did work and when the session was over my mind felt refreshed. “The quiet mind at peace brings great clarity and creativity,” Susan tells me.
After the session Susan rustled up a yummy lunch of carrot and leek tart and salad. Sinful chocolate pudding and coffee followed leaving us feeling completely fulfilled!
Residential guests arrive on Friday and for a fee of €295 get two nights B&B, lunch on Saturday and of course, the meditation course! Non-residential guests pay €195, arrive Saturday morning instead of Friday night, the course and a lunch are included. If you can’t drag yourself home on Sunday there’s always a spare room in Big Moon Cottage at a cost of €50. Big Moon Cottage also provides courses for companies providing employers with a vent for employees stress (and a return on Monday harder working then ever!) Once you have done a course at Big Moon Susan recommends dropping back for extra meditation sessions with her to keep you on the straight and narrow and they are quite reasonably priced at €25. Call Susan to see when her next available course is on 028 36926 or e mail her on contact@bigmoon-cottage.com
Check out the website for more information @ www.bigmoon-cottage.com
Big Moon Cottage is a pretty white-washed cottage hidden amongst the unspoilt rugged landscape of our very own West Cork. The hinterland is speckled with winding rivers and country shrubs and just oozes relaxation and simplicity a short walk from the Atlantic Ocean. City smog was a distant memory as I stepped out of my car and breathed in the fresh, crisp air. Upon arrival I received a warm welcome from the vibrant Susan and felt immediately at home in her warmly decorated country home. Like an Aladdin’s cave of treasures Susan’s little cottage was home to musical wind chimes, dinky ornaments, cluttered bookshelves and pine, stone and woven furniture giving it a really homely feel. As I donned my slippers and sipped herbal tea I soaked in the tranquil surroundings and opened my mind to the experience that lay ahead. My fears of intense meditation were immediately relieved as Susan gently outlined what the course would entail and I allowed myself to settle into the comfy couch and be taken back in time…
Throughout history meditation has been a common practise among many religions and cultures. It was used as a tool for enlightenment by many religious sects from India to China and Japan and also by Western monks. Extreme mediators would focus their thoughts and minds on certain objects, words and phrases for up to 14 hours to achieve spiritual awareness and more informed ways of thinking. Sound a bit far out? Fear not as today meditation is geared towards relaxation and stress management as well as spiritual development and mediators need not believe in any religion at all! As Susan says, “If you practise it, it works”.
According to Susan the two twenty minute sessions are like a premium fuel to the body, mind and spirit. I allow my hands to rest on an amazingly soft fluffy cushion as Susan explains how the physical process of meditation has the opposite effect on the body as stress. “When we are stressed our heart rate increases, our breathing becomes faster, sugars and fats are released into the bloodstream in a ‘fight and flight response’, digestion comes to a halt and the body sweats to cool itself,” she tells me, leaning forward enthusiastically, “In meditation the metabolic rate slows down and brings a state of rest that, according to studies, is deeper than deep sleep.”
Other functions in the body are also affected such as a decrease in oxygen consumption, heart rate, cardiac output and changes in blood chemistry. And it’s not only the physical body that gets a vacation during meditation. Scientific studies have also shown that meditation can promote balance between the left and right hemispheres of the brain. Thus there is a decrease in anxiety and an increase in stability and adaptability.
Emotionally meditation is like a filter as it strains ‘mud out of murky water’ (the stress and fear within us). “Fear is the thing which stops many of us from wanting to go deeper. There is nothing to fear,” Susan assures me, “We find, in time, that our suffering was the ‘door’ to our deeper self and that the very same suffering opened us up in a way that nothing else could. Beyond that we are truly alive within our own peace.” Thus the art of meditation enables the mind to think clearer and therefore helps the mediator to deal with everyday problems rather than storing them away and harbouring negativity. Over time meditation can help the individual deal with deeper issues and problems. For those attending counselling, this can be a great way to assist you in getting the most from your therapy.
Susan teaches the technique of focusing on a word that has no significance (a mantra, a sound), thus enabling the mind to move away from any streams of thought. Although niggling thoughts kept creeping into my mind it really did work and when the session was over my mind felt refreshed. “The quiet mind at peace brings great clarity and creativity,” Susan tells me.
After the session Susan rustled up a yummy lunch of carrot and leek tart and salad. Sinful chocolate pudding and coffee followed leaving us feeling completely fulfilled!
Residential guests arrive on Friday and for a fee of €295 get two nights B&B, lunch on Saturday and of course, the meditation course! Non-residential guests pay €195, arrive Saturday morning instead of Friday night, the course and a lunch are included. If you can’t drag yourself home on Sunday there’s always a spare room in Big Moon Cottage at a cost of €50. Big Moon Cottage also provides courses for companies providing employers with a vent for employees stress (and a return on Monday harder working then ever!) Once you have done a course at Big Moon Susan recommends dropping back for extra meditation sessions with her to keep you on the straight and narrow and they are quite reasonably priced at €25. Call Susan to see when her next available course is on 028 36926 or e mail her on contact@bigmoon-cottage.com
Check out the website for more information @ www.bigmoon-cottage.com
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
