healing hands nh – Healing Hands Community Chiropractic

March 26, 2015

What are you missing from your workout?

By Guest Blogger , Michele McCauley

What are you missing from your workout? Is it flexibility, strength, balance, coordination, cardio, mental peace? With one session of Pilates, you can achieve all of this….so why aren’t you doing Pilates?

Joseph Pilates, born in the late 1800’s, is credited to his strong work in sports and fitness. After WWI, Joseph Pilates developed exercises for the military using bed springs and beer keg rings, which simulate todays’ current equipment like the Reformer and Magic Circle.

Pilates came to NY in the late 1920’s with his wife Clara. Ballet dancers have practiced Pilates, as they found the exercises are effective in keeping core muscles strong, increased flexibility for long limbs, and better posture. These exercises are currently used today to make athletes stronger in sports like cycling, swimming, running, surfing, golf, tennis, and Yoga tooJ

Just an hour of Pilates is far more effective than an hour in the gym. Why? The body utilizes more muscles in one Pilates exercise than in most weight bearing workouts. Also the most crucial benefit of Pilates being, that there is no impact on the joints.

Many physical therapists are now using Pilates exercises as part of their rehabilitation program. The exercises are performed with muscular control with emphasis on drawing energy from the core. And again, no impact on the joints!

Many people suffer from back pain. Tight hamstrings, weak hips, and no core strength are often the contributing factors to back pain. Pilates focuses on building core strength and spinal alignment, the end result is better posture and no back pain.

I started practicing Pilates a decade ago, during my third year of running road races. After practicing Pilates for just one year, I was the second place female finalist in a local 5 mile road race. This was astonishing to me and I credit Pilates for my increased performance in skiing, cycling, and swimming too!

Since 2008, I have instructed Pilates to an outstanding number of people. Each client is designed an individually, customized program to help regain flexibility, strength, balance, coordination, cardio, and mental peace. We work together to maximize their abilities and limitations to reach their fitness goals. I am quite accustomed in working with clients of all ages and fitness levels.

If you would like to learn how to intensify your mat practice in Pilates or Yoga, become stronger and faster in your sport, eliminate back pain, and discover the other numerous benefits Pilates has to offer, then visit MBM Studio for a demo or log onto www.movementbymichele.com.

Hope to see you soonJ

Hope to see you soon!

About Healing Hands Community Chiropractic

Our mission at Healing Hands Community Chiropractic -Portsmouth, NH is to promote and support the overall health, well-being and highest quality of life of all individuals and families in our community through affordable chiropractic care.

Healing Hands Community Chiropractic is a health -care model intended to increase access to chiropractic care by offering adjustments in an open setting and fees on an affordable sliding-scale, without income verification. By doing so, we offer the people of our community the opportunity to receive treatment as often as they need, to get the results they deserve with no insurance hassles -simply paying what they can for only $20- $40!

Click here to book now!

December 20, 2013

Relief With Craniosacral Therapy

By Guest Blogger, Dr. Jessica Paskalis of Atlantic Physical Therapy

Physical Therapists’ generally have two primary goals as a profession. We want to help alleviate pain and get people moving, whatever that level of activity may be. It sounds quite simple but in actuality there are so many factors that need to be assessed and understood to help make that happen. We look at the type of pain and level of pain, posture, range of motion, strength, sensation, how you move, if and how daily activities are impacted including sleep. We have to understand how all the major systems in your body work and impact one another including your musculoskeletal system, nervous system, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, endocrine system and gastrointestinal system. Considering these factors many physical therapists are working to take a more holistic view in addressing client concerns and achieving client goals.

As a physical therapist it is important to provide comprehensive physical therapy, consultation and treatment to improve and enhance mobility, flexibility, strength, endurance and overall health through a blend of “traditional” physical therapy techniques, working on general health goals and integrating additional methods learned from additional experience and continuing education. These techniques include but are not limited to:

Range of Motion

Joint Mobilization

Soft Tissue Mobilization

Craniosacral Therapy

Myofascial Release

Plyometrics

Balance and Coordination Training

Endurance Training

Therapeutic Exercise

(stretching and strengthening)

Core Strengthening

Postural Education

Gait Training

Ergonomic Consultation

Fall Prevention

Home Exercise Program

Food Plans and Diet Education and Modification

Pilates

Yoga

Modalities

Physical therapy can address chronic and acute muscle, joint, headache and back pain resulting from:

Arthritis

Orthopedic Diagnoses

Post Surgical

Joint Replacement

Carpal Tunnel Surgery

Rotator Cuff Repair

Arthroscopic Surgery

Sports Injury

Acute and Chronic Sprains and Strains

Stress & Tension

Migraines

Deconditioning

Tendonitis

Bursitis

Plantar Facsitis

Pelvic Pain and Dysfunction

Fibromyalgia

Dietary Factors

And many other factors.

Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, non-invasive light touch form of therapy.

The Craniosacral system consists of the fluid and membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. This system is also comprised of the bones of the cranium (the skull, face and mouth) down along the vertebral column to the sacrum and coccyx (or tailbone). Cerebrospinal fluid is produced by and flows through this system creating a rhythm or pulsation that flows through out the soft tissue (fascia) of the body. When constriction or resistance is present in this fascia it alters the rhythm or flow creating dysfunction within the body.

The gentle techniques of Craniosacral Therapy assist the body to resolve these “resistance patterns” and re-establish the natural flow or rhythm within the body.

Craniosacral Therapy is client-focused. The client’s individual needs and response to treatment determine the pace of each session. Since it is client-focused and each session is unique Craniosacral Therapy is a suitable treatment for individuals of all ages from babies and young children to the elderly.

Craniosacral therapy is a gentle, non-invasive light touch form of therapy.

The gentle techniques of Craniosacral Therapy assist the body to resolve these “resistance patterns” and re-establish the natural flow or rhythm within the body.

As a local provider I work diligently to provide a more holistic approach to physical therapy.

I have been practicing for over ten years. Initially obtaining my physical therapy degree from Northeastern University, graduating with my Master’s degree in 2002 and my Doctorate degree in 2006. I have worked in a variety of settings including; acute care and rehabilitation hospitals, residential facilities, schools, out-patient clinics, athletic facilities, aquatic centers and home care working with clients of all ages. This experience has helped me to look at physical therapy and health from several angles and work to help my clients as completely as I can. I specialize in Craniosacral Therapy* and am a Certified Early Intervention Specialist treating children from birth through school age. I have studied Pilates, yoga and general strength and conditioning training. Recently I became certified as a FLT lifestyle educator, which allows me to more effectively support people around their daily food plan and nutritional goals.

If you would like to schedule an appointment or find out more about how physical therapy may be able to help you please call 603-427-9014

You can find me at Atlantic Physical Therapy on Islington Street in Portsmouth.

About Healing Hands Community Chiropractic

Click here to book now!

November 1, 2013October 21, 2013

Every New Parent’s Dream

In-Home Postpartum & Breastfeeding Support

by guest blogger, Krista Maltais of Koru Care

Imagine coming home with your newborn baby for the first time; the nursery is organized, the laundry is folded, lunch has been prepared for you, and best of all, someone is waiting to help you take care of your little one and answer any questions you may have. No, this is not a dream or a service reserved only for the rich and famous; Postpartum Doula care is a growing profession and available for any woman who wants it.

Postpartum Doulas care for the entire family as a unit; they provide education, companionship, and assistance with daily tasks so the family can focus on transitioning and adjusting into their new roles. They can also help parents achieve the confidence and skills needed through practical suggestions and competent demonstrations. The role of the Postpartum Doula changes every day in order to ensure the family’s needs are being met.

In addition, Postpartum Doulas provide personalized, long-term, breastfeeding education and assistance in the privacy of your home. They undergo thorough lactation education and training as part of their certification; they are able to educate parents about understanding milk production, newborn feeding cues and satiation, evaluate latch and breastfeeding experiences, as well as provide constant encouragement and support. Postpartum Doulas also guide partners to become actively educated and supportive of the breastfeeding mother as well as feel included in the feeding process through tips and suggestions. Many parents find that having a Postpartum Doula’s assistance helps ensure breastfeeding empowerment and success for their family.

New parents are dealing with a multitude of changes and demands during the first weeks and months of their baby’s life. Postpartum Doulas help ease and enrich families’ early parenting and breastfeeding experiences. After all, what parent doesn’t feel like they are living in a dream after having a nap, a long hot shower, a hearty meal, and the education, confidence, and skills to feed and raise their baby?

To find out more about the benefits of postpartum care and in-home breastfeeding support, visit: www.KoruCareDoula.com

About the Author: Krista Maltais graduated with a B.S. in Family Studies from the University of New Hampshire and has been an active Postpartum Doula for more than 7 years and Advanced Lactation Consultant for more than 4 years. It is her passion to assist families as they transition into life with their newborn. Her service area covers Southern Maine, Southeast New Hampshire, and North Shore Massachusetts.

Koru Care Postpartum Doula Services
Krista Maltais, PCD(DONA), ALC, B.S. Family Studies
603.918.9298
KristaDoula@gmail.com

About Healing Hands Community Chiropractic

Click here to book now!

October 17, 2013October 17, 2013

5 Tips to Planning a Great Babymoon

By Guest Blogger, Darcy Sauers of Dover Doula

Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life. And typically, after our big, elaborate weddings we take a fantastic, relaxing, expensive honeymoon that is focused on bonding and having fun with our new partner.

The birth day of your baby is also one of the most important days of your life. Yet, typically afterwards, we are sent home in a whirlwind of questions. Instead of bonding and having fun with our new baby, we find ourselves surviving on granola bars, not showering and sometimes crying for no reason.

Why? Why? Why?

Why is there such a disparity between the way we celebrate these two major life events? I don’t know – that’s the topic of a separate blog.

One study showed that in the last 3 months leading up to their wedding, brides spent an average of 11 hours a week working on wedding details. Devote some time to planning your Babymoon.

Here’s my top 5 tips for taking a Babymoon and how hiring a postpartum doula can help.

1. Sleep. Did you sleep in every morning on your honeymoon? Take a nap before going out to dinner? Sleep is of the utmost importance on your Babymoon. A new baby needs to eat every 2-3 hours around the clock. The sleep deprivation that comes along with a new baby can really take a toll on your mood and your health. And this is not one or two nights of bad sleep, this is a long haul! It’s really important to “sleep when the baby sleeps” throughout the day. Nap whenever possible. A postpartum doula can watch the baby while you nap during the day. You can also hire an overnight postpartum doula to help you get the most sleep possible at night. Postpartum doulas can also educate you about newborn sleep patterns and help you maximize the sleep you and your newborn are getting.

2. Pamper yourself. Did you have a massage before or after your wedding? A pedicure? Treat yourself to some pampering and self-care. Whether it’s hiring a massage therapist to come to your home or just taking a really long hot bath with some candles and the door closed. A little self-care goes a long way for a mom. A postpartum doula will care for the baby while you take some time for yourself to nap, shower or whatever it is that makes you feel better!

3. No guests allowed. How many people did you invite to come with you on your honeymoon? In the first few days home on your baby moon, just let it be the three of you. Naked in bed. Focus on breastfeeding, bonding and recovering from birth. Your baby will still be super cute a week or two from now and you can invite friends and family to come then. A postpartum doula often “runs interference” with family and friends, making sure that no one is overstaying their welcome.

4. Good food. Was your wedding catered by a top, local chef? Were there decadent dinners and drinks on your honeymoon? Then why are you surviving on granola bars and frozen dinners in the first weeks home with your baby? Take the time to enjoy nutritious and delicious snacks and dinners. Nourish yourself so you can nourish your baby. When a friend asks, “Is there is anything I can do?” Say, “Yes, please drop off a healthy dinner.” Keep a list of healthy take out options nearby. Hire someone to stash your freezer with healthy meals. A postpartum doula will be sure to provide you with healthy snacks throughout the day and light meal preparation.

5. Enjoy it. The focus of a honeymoon is to have uninterrupted time with your partner to have fun, build wonderful memories, and create a bond that will last a lifetime. Do the same with your baby! Turn off the phone, the computer and the to-do list and snuggle in with your amazing newborn. Take time to examine every cute little roll of glorious chubbiness! Notice how intently his eyes look at your face. Sing her some songs. Snuggle him on your chest and inhale that intoxicating newborn scent on the top of his head. A postpartum doula will take care of your laundry and dishes so that you can focus all your time and attention on the fun stuff!

Bonus. Don’t stress. Did you spend time on your honeymoon worrying about whether or not you were a good wife? Or did you live in the moment and enjoy long walks on the beach with the love of your life? Spend your babymoon enjoying your new baby and falling in love. Don’t waste one second worrying that you are a bad mom or that you’re doing it wrong. You’re not.

And finally, just like you did on your honeymoon, TAKE LOTS OF PICTURES! And make sure that you are IN the pictures. You may not feel as beautiful as you did on your honeymoon, but trust me, you are.

Darcy Sauers owns Dover Doula and is a certified postpartum doula and certified lactation counselor. She is the mother of three children who didn’t take the time to plan a Babymoon and really wishes that she had. She is now passionately committed to helping new moms really enjoy the first 12 weeks home with a new baby. Since 2010, she has helped close to 100 Seacoast, NH area families with their Babymoons.

About Healing Hands Community Chiropractic

Click here to book now!

March 1, 2013February 23, 2013

Increasing Body Awareness Through Massage Therapy

By Guest Blogger, Tamar Thomas. LMT- Massage Therapist/Owner at Inner Truth Massage

Receiving regular massage therapy as part of a preventive wellness regimen has so many health benefits. You’ve surely heard the list: Increased circulation, improved immunity, removal of lactic acid and toxins, relief from headaches and muscle soreness, faster recovery from injury, etc. The documented research includes not only physical benefits, but a mind body connection as well.

In my opinion, the most important benefit massage provides is an opportunity to go inward and be aware of oneself in the moment. To “climb out of your head and into your body,” as my anatomy instructor used to say. It is a magical hour where you are not sleeping, but not moving; just observing being present in your body. Going inward during bodywork helps us connect with our highest self, with who we really are, and to experience the way we would ideally feel every day- relaxed, centered, happy, and healthy.

The state of deep relaxation that a massage delivers helps us “hear” our body’s signals more clearly, whether it is an awareness of hidden stress or the need for more or less of something in our lives. Have you ever come down with a cold or flu, and realized that you have been demanding too much of yourself? If you had been listening to the signals, to slow down and nurture your body’s demands for rest, you could have possibly prevented the illness. You were probably feeling stressed, tired, and overworked.

So many of us go through daily life completely disconnected from our body. A dull ache in a joint, throbbing between the shoulder blades, or a tension headache, and we tend to pop an ibuprofen before considering the cause. We have such constantly busy minds catering to the tasks at hand, the to-do list, and to others’ needs that it is easy to overlook the messages our bodies are sending us. Massage therapy provides the perfect opportunity to turn off the internal chatter and just listen. Once we have slowed down and are tuned in to our physical self, it is so much easier to recognize and take the steps needed to heal. Be it more sleep, hydration, stretching, mindfulness of habits, applying ice for inflammation, or making that appointment for chiropractic care, awareness is the first step.

Massage also helps us bring awareness to subconscious holding patterns or tension. It is so common for a client on my massage table to announce, “I didn’t even know I was sore there until you started working on me!” We can hold chronic muscular tension in our neck, shoulders, back, and/or hips, often without an awareness that we are doing it. Here’s a test: Take a few deep breaths and ask yourself as you’re reading this, “Am I holding tension anywhere in my body right now?” Pause and breathe. Do a mental scan from head to toe and ask for feedback from your body. Where are you holding your stress? What did you find?

Another way to connect our mind and body is through exercising gratitude for the parts of us that do feel good and that unconsciously keep us alive and thriving. Donna Gates from Positively Positive writes, “How many of us are thankful for our health and for the body itself? The body, with all its senses, strength, and flexibility, is the one thing that we could be most grateful for. Many times we forget about the many miracles that the body performs on a daily basis. Because our bodies are always with us, keeping up with the tempo of life, we have a tendency to take the body for granted. Only when something goes wrong with the body do we appreciate it.” I find the following exercise really helpful for communicating with subconscious holding patterns in my body and to remind myself to be grateful for where I feel good.

Awareness and Gratitude Exercise

Focus on the rhythms of your breath. Are you taking short, shallow breaths or long, deep ones from your chest or belly? Take a few breaths to fall into your own rhythm.
Consider how your entire body is feeling. Any areas that you’ve been neglecting? How do they feel? Take note of any pockets of tension, tightness, soreness or fatigue. Where does discomfort live in your body – your head, neck, shoulders, back or feet, perhaps?
Where does your body feel relaxed, content, and comfortable? Take a moment to be thankful for this feeling. On the in-breath think, “I am” and on the out-breath think, “At peace.” No matter what is going on around you, it is always possible to find an inner sense of peace and calm.
Say the following aloud or to yourself now and throughout the day: “With each out-breath, I am releasing pent-up tension and stress. With each in-breath, I am restoring physical well-being.” Just this act of attention and awareness has the power to bring you more energy and reduce stress.

You may be wondering how I can help you as a massage client to be more in the present moment and bring your consciousness into your body through massage. Here are a few things I do in my practice:

I take the time to ground myself and to create a safe space for allowing you to just “be”, leaving my own “stuff” out of the session with 100% attention on you and your needs.
I really listen to you before the massage – taking into consideration your personal preferences for pressure, temperature, favorite aromas, past injuries or tension patterns, current needs and energy level, etc
During the massage, I am always tuned in to the rhythm of your breathing and I use it to guide the pace and depth of my pressure and flow. Slow, calm breathing is an indication that your body is welcoming in the work, while holding the breath is a sign that the work is too deep.
Your body knows exactly what it needs to heal itself, so by listening to your body and connecting with your higher self, I am able to listen as well, and can adjust my work so that you receive exactly the kind of session that you need at that time.

Here is a challenge for you: Be a little bit more aware of your body today. Slow down and be mindful of your body’s needs. Take a moment to really be still and listen. You may be surprised at what you hear.

About the Author:

Tamar Thomas, LMT is a licensed and nationally certified massage therapist. She has owned and operated Inner Truth Massage since 2008 and has recently moved her practice to 40 Pleasant St in downtown Portsmouth- Across the hall from Healing Hands Community Chiropractic. She is thrilled to be collaborating toward Healing Hand’s motto “Wellness for All” and has extended an exclusive ongoing offer to HHCC patients: A 25-minute back and neck massage on a scale of $20-$40. Manage your massage appointments online at www.innertruthmassage.com or call Tamar at (603) 616-2828 for more information.

Click here to book now!

February 15, 2013February 27, 2013

Pregnancy and Birth – Keeping it REAL.

by Guest Blogger, Amy Peterson of Hound Hill Doula and Great Bay Doulas

“Every pregnancy is unique”. Women frequently hear this response when they share questions or concerns about their pregnancy. But in truth, there are so many things about pregnancy that are universal, and it is important to know that you are not alone in the feelings, experiences, and sensations of pregnancy. Just like young girls commiserate about boys, compare their developing bodies and dream about their futures; pregnant women too thrive in an environment of shared experience.

In an effort to bring pregnant women together in a relaxed social setting, the Great Bay Doulas began their popular Mocktail Parties in the spring of 2011 and they are going stronger than ever! What’s a Mocktail Party? It a big bellied girl’s night out, a cocktail party minus the alcohol; it’s an opportunity to get together with other pregnant women and share excitement, milestones, fears and questions. Krista Maltais, Darcy Sauers and Amy Peterson, three seacoast area certified doulas and lactation counselors, host these fun events at local venues on a monthly basis.

Each event has a theme – whether it’s baby calming or breastfeeding; and the doulas come prepared to answer questions and facilitate discussion, as well as offering lots of opportunity for hands on practice. With their realistically weighted Great Bay-bies in tow, the doulas tackle baby wearing, swaddling and labor positioning. There are birthing balls to practice with and wraps and slings try. Often the parties include moms who have just given birth and can share their fresh perspective on the experience. The doulas keep it real. From placenta pills to postpartum depression, no topic is taboo. The casual, fun atmosphere makes it easy to bring up difficult topics and to connect with the other moms in lasting friendships.

The Great Bay Doulas are honored to have the support of many local businesses including Baby-Go-Round and Healing Hands Community Chiropractic. With the support of many local and national businesses they are able to offer some amazing door prizes, samples, and special coupons or offers to all of the guests.

Come join the fun as their new series begins with “Breast Start”, on March 7th, 2013 at Baby Go Round in Hampton Falls. Explore your options for birth in our area, and find out what birth is really like! Visit the Great Bay Doulas website for more information at greatbaydoulas.com and follow the conversation at facebook.com/GreatBayDoulas.

About Amy Peterson CD(DONA), CLC

With experience in Emergency Medical Service, infant group daycare direction, and specialized foster care for NHDCYF, Amy has been working with infants and families all of her adult life. In 2009 she became a doula, and is certified in labor support with DONA International, and in lactation counseling with Healthy Children’s Center For Breastfeeding. She is continually moved by how empowered mothers become when they take ownership of their birth experience. Amy strives to help women trust their instincts and their body’s ability to birth; instilling confidence and a joyful appreciation of the journey toward parenting.

Click here to book now!

February 1, 2013February 27, 2013

Wag More With Wagging Tail Dog Walkers

by Guest Blogger, Jaimal “Jackson” Warfield of Wagging Tail Dog Walkers.

“In times of joy, all of us wished we possessed a tail we could wag.”

W. H. Auden

It’s been over five years now that I co-founded Wagging Tail Dog Walkers, but when someone asks me what I do for a living, I still crack a smile when I say to them, “I walk dogs.”

I quickly became used to responses of disbelief or people thinking I was just joking around, because although the dog walking and pet sitting industry has been around for decades, it has been and largely remains an industry that is known to few. There is no formal training, no certification, no dog walking university, and probably the biggest reason, it is an industry that favors independent entrepreneurs over big companies.You don’t see dog walkers advertising on billboards, you don’t hear about them on the radio. When looking around for a dog walker or pet sitter, most people aren’t going to search on the internet or the yellow pages, they are going to ask around to people they trust, because trust is the most important factor in this industry.

While the actual walking part is simple, (though not always easy…ever been dragged down the street by a 100 pound Rottweiler who just wants to say hi to everyone and everything? Or tried to carefully pick up something stinky from the ground with two leashes in one hand, gloves under your arm and an umbrella supported by your neck and shoulder?) there is much more to being a successful dog walker.

You have to be trustworthy, reliable, flexible and available to meet the needs of your customers, which can and do change frequently. About 50% of my business is from customers who have set schedules and can therefore give me set schedules for walks, and the other 50% is made up of customers whose needs, workload and shifts change weekly.

Occasionally I get last minute calls, which I always try to accommodate, when someone gets stuck in traffic or wants to meet friends after work and not have to rush home or feel guilty for making their dog have to wait an extra hour or two to go out.

And every now and then there are “lock outs,” when somehow the dog walker is the only one around with a house key, haha. There are also house sitting visits, to bring in mail and packages, or swinging by to make sure the gas stove wasn’t left on. The benefits of having a dog walker go on and on!

I started Wagging Tail Dog Walkers with a friend in 2007 by stapling up 20 fliers around town. Soon after, I had the opportunity to do some traveling, which I have always loved, but I returned to Portsmouth in 2009 and have been running the business ever since.

Now, four years and thousands of walks later, I look back and realize how entwined I have become with many people, entirely through their dogs. Some older dogs have passed on and new puppies have taken their places, customers have married (even two separate ones to each other!), bought houses and introduced new baby members to their packs. I still think about dogs who I used to walk whose owners moved away and sometimes want to email them and ask how so and so is doing, and to give him a scratch behind the ears for me.

Along with looking back, I am also looking forward. Reactions these days, when I tell people I am a dog walker, are not as entertaining (often, “oh, nice! I want your job!” or “I’ve heard of that!”), and that’s because the industry is growing and becoming more widely recognized. Because of that recognition and demand, for the first time since starting out, I have hired help and have been enjoying introducing another walker to “my” dogs, whose tails just keep on wagging.

Along with walking, we are now doing more regular trips to Peirce Island and occasionally the beach in the off – season. I’ve always believed in the saying, “a tired dog is a good dog,” and I look forward to growing Wagging Tail and helping people with their dog walking needs.

About Wagging Tail Dog Walkers:

Wagging Tail Dog Walkers provides individual dog walking services to the Portsmouth area and group trips to the park.

Please find us on Facebook under Wagging Tail Dog Walkers or email us at waggingtaildogwalkers@yahoo.com

About Healing Hands Community Chiropractic
Our mission at Healing Hands Community Chiropractic -Portsmouth, NH is to promote and support the overall health, well-being and highest quality of life of all individuals and families in our community through affordable chiropractic care. Healing Hands Community Chiropracticis a health -care model intended to increase access to chiropractic care by offering adjustments in an open setting and fees on an affordable sliding-scale, without income verification. By doing so, we offer the people of our community the opportunity to receive treatment as often as they need, to get the results they deserve with no insurance hassles -simply paying what they can for only $20- $40!Click here to book now!

January 17, 2013February 27, 2013

V-Day 2013: Raising Awareness To End Violence

by Guest Blogger, Joi Smith of Back Alley Productions

Eighteen thousand dollars: that’s how much money was raised last year for local organizations Sexual Assault Support Services (S.A.S.S.) and A Safe Place by Back Alley Productions’ presentation of Eve Ensler’s The Vagina Monologues. But for organizers Joi Smith and Danica Carlson, those numbers only fueled their desire to make an even bigger impact. This year, the company will be expanding its V-Day benefit production to two cities: Portsmouth and – for the first time – Rochester, NH.

Founded fifteen years ago as a global effort demanding an end to violence against women and girls, V-Day (www.VDay.org) raises money by way of hundreds of thousands of volunteers in 140 different countries producing benefit productions of playwright/founder Eve Ensler’s works. The cash funds educational programs that help women overcome the effects of violence, enabling them to support themselves and their families. It’s a crucial contribution in a world where one in three women will experience violence in their lifetimes.

Motivated by that staggering statistic, Smith and Carlson’s Back Alley Productions has taken part in the V-Day program for four years, helping to support both the global V-Day effort and local organizations dedicated to preventing violence against children and adults. It’s a truly community effort, with over 30 people involved in the production. All of them are volunteers, and many return to lend a hand year after year. In addition, local businesses and artists donate a wide array of treats, gift certificates, works and other products to help raise money for the cause.

As they expand their efforts to two cities this year, they’re taking a divide-and-conquer approach. Proceeds from the V-Day Portsmouth event, which takes place at Seacoast Repertory Theater on February 1, 2, and 3, will go to support S.A.S.S.’s efforts to end sexual violence by providing educational programs in Rockingham and Strafford county school systems. Meanwhile, the company’s V-Day Rochester program, taking place on Februay 22 and 23 at The Rochester Opera House, will raise cash for A Safe Place (www.ASafePlaceNH.org), helping them further their mission of providing free shelter and support services for those affected by domestic abuse.

The expansion into a new city isn’t the only change for Back Alley Production’s V-Day efforts this year. The company is also offering a compelling innovation on the traditional V-Day program by including a monologue from a male perspective. The piece, Rescue, was written by Mark Matousek for V-Day’s 10th anniversary. At first he wasn’t sure if he had anything to offer the movement. Then he realized the violence the women in his life experienced affected his life as well. The piece will be performed by CJ Lewis, who provided administrative support last year and after watching the show, wanted to get more involved.

“I think it’s great that they are getting a male voice. As I am sitting there watching the show it is clear that I am outnumbered as a male viewer. I believe that the experience is as important and powerful for men as it is for women,” explains Lewis. “The piece is a call to arms, to men especially. It is important that we raise new awareness. It’s not just a woman’s issue – it’s a human issue. I’m looking forward to being a conduit for other men to experience the piece.”

The move is part of Smith and Carlson’s desire to remind audiences that The Vagina Monologues isn’t just a “women’s show”. Hailed by The New York Times, Daily News, and Variety as funny, poignant, intelligent and courageous, the show was written and conceived for a both men and women to engage with.

V-Day Portsmouth has only three performances on Friday February 1st at 8:00 PM, Saturday February 2nd at 8:00 PM, and Sunday February 3rd at 2pm, at Seacoast Repertory Theater on Bow Street in Portsmouth, NH. The audience is encouraged to bring cash so that they can participate in the sale of artisan wares and the raffle of gift certificates and other items. Tickets are $25 general admission, $20 for students & seniors. To purchase tickets online visit www.seacoastrep.org, or contact the Box Office via phone- 603-433-4472, or email- boxoffice@seacoastrep.org.

V-Day Rochester has only two performances on Friday February 22nd at 8pm and Saturday February 23rd at 8pm, at The Rochester Opera House, 31 Wakefield Street in Rochester, NH. Tickets are $20 general admission.To purchase tickets online visit www.rochesteroperahouse.com, or contact the Box Office via phone- (603) 335-1992.

The doors will open one hour before show-time at both venues for live music and cocktails. This production contains adult language and themes and may not be appropriate for all audiences.

100% of the proceeds for both productions will go to Sexual Assault Support Services (SASS), A Safe Place, and V-Day.

About Back Alley Productions:

Back Alley Productions has been creating thought provoking, quality theater for the seacoast since 2008. It’s founders, Joi Smith and Danica Carlson, share a passion for highlighting the amazing talents in their community, as well as raising awareness to social issues through the theater medium. Their next production, after both V-Day performances, will be an original, locally written show called Love, exploring the many perspectives of such an important topic. Love will be up at The Players’ Ring in Portsmouth April 19th – May 5th.

About Healing Hands Community Chiropractic

Click here to book now!

January 2, 2013February 27, 2013

Wholesome Healthcare: Oriental Medicine as Preventative Medicine

By Guest Blogger,
Isabel Streichhahn-Demers, L.Ac., MAOM

“The sages of antiquity did not treat those who were already sick; they instructed those who were not yet sick…To treat disease that has already developed is comparable to the behavior of those persons who begin to dig a well after they have become thirsty, and of those who begin to cast weapons after they have already engaged in battle. Would these actions not be too late?”
-Huangdi Neijing

Prevention as a concept to take care of oneself on a daily basis and not only during a crisis is a growing phenomenon in North America. While many individuals do not seek out acupuncture until they are sick – as we are accustomed to, due to our western medical model, historically and methodically acupuncture and Oriental medicine have their roots in the importance of prevention. It is not uncommon to hear the response after inquiry about my profession that “I don’t need acupuncture right now because nothing is wrong.” Acupuncture and Oriental medicine has gained in popularity over the last twenty years, however, of the millions of people that have experienced it, only a small percentage understand it as a preventative medicine as well as an effective primary health care model.

Acupuncture and Oriental medicine are effective to treat illness, but its strength and complexity lies in prevention. The beauty of this medical model is to use it as maintenance of health rather than a quick fix, addressing the root cause of ailments. The disease process has layers of progression to it. Years before a physical manifestation can be detected on either an MRI or due to pain, energetic imbalances exist within the body. The symptoms may be as subtle as a mild headache and not until the disease has manifested at deeper levels will an individual seek treatment. These minor signals that your body expresses are not ones important to western medicine but are all taken into consideration by a doctor of acupuncture and Oriental medicine to diagnose and treat the imbalances present.

Oriental medicine works through more avenues than just acupuncture (the insertion of very thin needles at specific locations), incorporating nutrition, exercises, and herbal medicine for each individual’s constitution. Through this wholesome approach your body maintains harmony and has the ability to regain its full potential. Patients often discover that although they come in for specific conditions like low back pain other previous conditions also improve, they may experience fewer colds and if they do experience a cold that their recovery rate is greatly improved. With regular treatments (which are personalized and vary from person to person in terms of length and frequency) the state of health of the body is balanced. What this balance establishes is a strong immune system, more energy, life stressors and emotions are easier to handle and process, and your overall efficiency in daily tasks is increased.

Prevention is the most crucial factor in my practice. Traditional doctors of Oriental medicine were punished for letting their patients get sick and rewarded for keeping their patients healthy. As a practitioner of this 4,000 year old medicine, I honor these doctors through practicing prevention and staying in tune with my patients and their individual needs as we move from season to season and the interdependence of each entity in relation to the outside world.

As a society, as humans, we want to be healthy and to achieve our full potential. Practical solutions with simple steps that are offered through Oriental medicine will be a part in the solution to a wholesome healthcare system that will keep people healthy and in balance. Call an acupuncturist in your area to see how Oriental medicine can help you stay healthy and in tune with your body.

About the Author:

Isabel Streichhahn-Demers, L.Ac., MAOM, owner of Natural Entities: Family Acupuncture and Apothecary, is licensed and board-certified to practice Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine in New Hampshire and Maine. Isabel’s gentle acupuncture style draws from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), Japanese acupuncture and Kiiko Matsumoto style of acupuncture. Isabel has assisted Kiiko Matsumoto. In addition, Isabel has completed an assistantship with Dr. T. Koei Kuwahara who practices Toyo Hari style of acupuncture – specifically geared toward pediatric care. Working in a variety of healthcare settings, Isabel has developed the ability to design comfortable and effective treatments to suit the individual needs of all her patients. Isabel incorporates her background of Western herbalism, nutrition, psychology, and humanities to address each individual as a whole, focusing on a strong foundation to foster each persons full potential for health. Isabel has her private practice in downtown Dover, NH at Natural Entities: Family Acupuncture and Apothecary
90 Washington Street, 306C
Dover, NH 03820
941.681.6822
NaturalEntities@gmail.com
http://www.NaturalEntities.com

About Healing Hands Community Chiropractic
Our mission at Healing Hands Community Chiropractic -Portsmouth, NH is to promote and support the overall health, well-being and highest quality of life of all individuals and families in our community through affordable chiropractic care.

Click here to book now!