As you know, I'm always looking for ways to improve health and well being. While in MT school, I was fortunate enough to be able to take t'ai chi lessons from a wonderful instructor. But when I was back in Pittsburg, I no longer had that resource.

With the DVD: A.M. & P.M. T'ai Chi with David-Dorian Ross and CJ McPhee, I've been able to start back with this wonderful practice.

The DVD has two twenty minute sessions, one for beginning your day with increased energy; the other to help you wind down from your day and release stress and tension. The video is easy enough for beginners, and you'll soon find your flexibility improves so that the movements become smooth and flowing.

Filmed on the beach, with rolling waves in the background, it's soothing just watching that! Add David-Dorian and CJ's clear instructions for the gentle and easy movements and you'll soon find yourself enjoying increased energy and a feeling of peace throughout the day.

You can find the DVD at David-Dorian's Site or from Amazon.com. Wherever you get it, I think you will be pleased with its gentle, easy to follow instructions.

Late last year I wrote about how I viewed Mayan hammocks as a pain management option, in addition to being a great relaxation tool. I mentioned how the gentle rocking/swaying of the hammock could stimulate the vestibular system. Today I'd like to give you the details on why that system is important to everyone, from babies to the elderly.

When asked about the vestibular system, most people will often relate it with balance and inner ear issues. But the VS has more influence on our bodies than you think.

The VS affects all the sensory processes of the body, which makes it important to make sure it is in the best condition. More importantly, the VS is intricately involved with another very important system: the vagus nerve.

The vagus nerve is actually two cranial nerves, extremely long, which earned them the nickname "Wandering Nerves". Extending from your brain stem to the viscera (your internal organs), with branches to the heart, lungs, stomach, and ears, they gather incoming information from the body. This information helps the brain make sure the body is working efficiently. The vagus nerves also dispenses instructions to the body on how to work at peak performance.

This is valuable to know, because appropriate stimulation of the vagus nerve will help you slow your heartbeat, lower blood pressure, and bring about a relaxation response.

Which is where the vestibular system and the vagus complex connection comes into play. When you rock in a chair or swing in a hammock, you gently stimulate the vestibular system and therefore the vagus complex. This leads to mental and physical relaxation without much effort on your part.

The vagus complex is also responsible for your digestive system and its duties. If you are having a bit of trouble with constipation, gas, etc. it might be beneficial to try rocking, gentle bouncing on an exercise ball, or swinging in a hammock (are you noticing a theme here?) if more water and your regular exercise aren't doing the job. (Of course, check with your primary health care provider to make sure there's no major problems first!)

Don't have time for rocking or swinging? Since the lips and mouth are richly supplied with connections to the vagus nerves, try pinching your lips, chewing gum, or (gently!) biting your lips. Any of these will also help you avoid eating when you are stressed. Remember to breathe, drink a glass of water, and rock in your seat for additional tension relief.

Consider investing in a hammock or comfortable rocking chair for their considerable health benefits. In my opinion, the money I've spent on my hammocks (I have 2) has been the best investment I've ever spent on self care. Go ahead, invest in yourself, too!

Wishing you the best of health!

I've always been fascinated by reflexology, whether it be foot, hand, or ear reflexology.

When I have time, I like to Google the "interest of the moment", so today I looked for "Hand reflexology". I found this wonderful interactive chart, and wanted to share the link with you:

Free Reflexology Hand Map

Simply move your cursor over the drawing of the hand to see what your fingertips influence, or over a word in the list to find the spot on the hand related to it.

There is also a link there for a foot chart, but our hands are so much easier to reach. Plus, you can press/rub the reflex spots on the hands just about anywhere, anytime without your great aunt wondering why you're pinching your palm. : )

Remember, reflexology is not meant to replace the care of a primary health care provider. Err on the side of caution and get your situation checked out by your doctor, especially if you are experiencing more than a minor ache or pain.

Have a happy and relaxed holiday!

I love Donna Eden's books, and will be doing a review of her latest, "Energy Medicine for Women" after the holidays. Until then, here's something to get you started:



I've used the 3 Thumps to fight bronchitis before. . . now I use them to prevent it!

Stay warm!

For those of you who like to see beautiful kaleidoscopes, this is a beautifully relaxing video. It would make a terrific Christmas gift!



Ken Mayering (info@hdcolors.com) has been a jewel. When I first found his sample video on youtube, I liked it, but felt the images changed too fast to be relaxing. When I commented on it, he offered to slow it down. I loved the results, so ordered one this morning.

So visit his website, find a speed that you like, and contact Ken about your preferences. I can't wait to get mine, relax into the hammock, and bliss out!