Simplifying Your World at Pentad.

Truths about Marriage

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 03:30:00 +0000

I began a quick series the other week about relationships, and it was kicked off by the post, Relationships and Conflict Resolution. What gets in the way? It's late in the evening, so allow me to throw in a quick post that is a little side-tracked from the original series, but still on the subject of relationships and marriage.

Racing through Norwegian newspapers the other day, I saw a reminder list for those whose knot is already tied, and a reality check for those about to waltz down the aisle. Marriage is marriage, and couples around the world deal with similar relationship issues. That stated, here are seven truths about marriage:

Remember;

1. One day you just might look at your partner and think, "Is this it? Is this everything?"
Even though you've chosen the right person and no matter how terrific they are, you may ask yourself this question at some point throughout a long lifetime of marriage. Relax, it's normal, and it tends to pass.

2. Relationships are more work than most people think.
It's pretty much impossible to agree about everything, so sometimes compromise means brushing the chip from the shoulder and swallowing some pride.

3. There WILL be a time when you go to bed angry.
The wise words 'don't ever go to bed angry at each other' just don't always work in reality. Sometimes sleeping on a problem or conflict helps in discovering solutions. Breathe deep.

4. Sometimes you may have to go without sex, and that's OK.
Periods without sex throughout a marriage are normal, and it doesn't mean your partner doesn't want you anymore. There may be other stress factors in the picture that will subside. Don't fall into the trap of the blaming game. Stay close with the physical touch of kissing, hugging, and other affection in the meantime. Stay in touch. Intimacy is an important key to successful relationships, and it is expressed in various forms. Phases like these will come and go.

5. Getting your own way is seldom more important than solving problems and issues together.
You may be used to always being right, but your partner may also be right. A discussion or argument doesn't need to end in someone being the winner. Life is usually not 'black-white'. Life's gray zones are larger than people think.

6. A good marriage doesn't mean that you never have an argument.
If you can discuss in a respectful manner, marriages can be strengthened through the trials of argument (see series about conflict resolution).

7. Work on personal attitudes.
Instead of becoming irritated about the small things, choose the middle-road. Thank them for doing the dishes instead of criticizing that they forgot to take out the garbage.

Resource: Nettavisen

Tamera Daun©

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Detrimental Relationship Patterns. Working toward resolution, Part 2

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 15:29:00 +0000

Flooding was discussed in general terms in part 1, Relationships/Marriage and Conflict Resolution. What gets in the way? I became so enthusiastic about the information, because it really does lend new hope for those that are feeling frustrated. Nothing in a relationship is doomed unless we wish it so, however it calls for a "can do" attitude. It calls for a decision to change things, and then the effort and practice to learn a new way of dealing within the relationship.

Sometimes couples get into "bad" habit. I state the word 'bad' with hesitation, because what is that really? Well, in these cases it is negativity. In the case of conflict resolution, they are those communication patterns and behaviors that perpetuate hurt between two people in a relationship. They don't work toward validation of both, and a positive way forward. They don't resolve.

It must also be stated that raising an issue for dialogue and/or, emotional/practical resolution is not considered 'negativity' per definition. Some may feel this way if they operate from a style that is 'avoidant' descriptive. From these shoes most things may feel 'threatening' to one's individuality, and from this perspective, understandably so. However, too much 'I-ness' can also threaten the foundation of a relationship if over-used. It can slowly slip over a vulnerable boundary moving from "I count in the equation of 'we'", to "I do whatever I want regardless of the effect, emotional or otherwise, it may have on you". The 'we' gets lost, but I don't believe that it has to stay that way.

The decision to do better can be made at any point, and there really is no excuse we can offer for not improving. Excuses are usually based in fear. It can feel scary. If couples sit on their established pedestals feeling that in deciding to do better and change to constructive habit, dismisses any experience of 'being right' at any point in the past, it will be difficult to take the challenge. But, it still needs to be done. I think that all adults have 'bouts' that are child-like. It kind of ends up like, "even though I know it will be good for the relationship to do or practice A or B, I don't have to, because I don't want to. And, no one can make me do it". Who hasn't felt that at some point in time? Neither is it difficult to see that it leads nowhere.

I know, I know. The thought of breaking cycles and patterns ain't easy. It feels uncomfortable. It can feel like a risk. An emotional risk, that is.

Put the fear and feelings of risk on the back burner for a while, and imagine the most positive picture you can conjure of how you would envision your relationship in the future in the most fantastic of ways. What would you see that describes 'successful'? Cooperation? emotional and physical intimacy? Respect? A sense of partnership and team? Which qualities would be present, and what do you want to see happening?

It is also important to identify that which does not help us on the way to a better relationship in terms of interaction. As stated, raising an issue or complaint is not the problem. It's not so much the what in these cases, but more the 'how' it is done.

John Gottman, the foremost expert in the field of relationships/marriage knows the 'how' as a result of many years of rigorous scientific study. The information I am writing about is based on the findings of his research and the books he has published to help people 'do better'.

Gottman (1994) shares with us the four warning signs (from least to most destructive) which should be weeded out of the relationship (pgs. 68-99):

1. Criticism
2. Contempt
3. Defensiveness
4. Stonewalling

The more they are used in the relationship the more imperative it is to start working to dismantle them. Well, it should be done no matter how stable they have become in the relationship.

What is the difference between complaint and criticism? Gottman (1994) informs us that, "a complaint is a specific statement of anger, displeasure, or distress... A criticism is much less specific: it is more global. For example, "You never show any interest in me or my work. You just don't care about me". Other examples? Here's another one.

Complaint: "It upsets me when I came home and there were dirty dishes in the sink. You said you would take care of it".
Criticism: You left dirty dishes all over the kitchen again! You promised you wouldn't. I just can't trust you, can I?" (pg. 76).

Furthermore, Gottman (1994) adds that, "being critical can begin innocently enough and is often the expression of pent-up, unresolved anger. It may be one of those natural self-destruct mechanisms inherent in all personal relationships. Problems occur when criticism becomes so pervasive- or one partner is so sensitive to it - that it corrodes" (pg. 77).

Research shows that both males and females utilize criticism, although at different points during interaction. It seems to be that this is a problem men have with their women. They feel that women are overly critical. At the same time, they may be very sensitive about complaints. However, complaints have the least detrimental effect, both on the longterm emotions of the individuals, and the relationship. Both genders (the parameters of their physiological reactions included here) handle them much better. When raising an issue, it is wise to keep it to a specific complaint. Necessary is also the ability to listen to each other to correctly recognize a complaint for a complaint, and not confuse a complaint for a criticism.

What fuels contempt is harboring negative thoughts about the partner. For example: your partner is stupid, incompetent or a fool. It often leads to name-calling, with the intent to insult, and this actually separates it from criticism. "Remember that it is easy to feel overly critical at times, even in the best of relationships, and it is human to state criticism in a contemptuous way now and then", but the effort should be focused on weeding and keeping it out of the relationship (Gottman, 1994, p. 83). Again, this seems to be utilized by both genders, and especially when one feels misunderstood, belittled, and a variety of other aspects depending on the individual.

Defensiveness sets in as a gut reflex, and it serves to self-protect from a perceived threat, and even though a threat may not exist.

"The fact that defensiveness is an understandable reaction to feeling besieged is one reason it is so destructive- the "victim" doesn't see anything wrong with being defensive. But defensive phrases, and the attitude they express, tend to escalate a conflict rather than resolve anything. If you are being defensive (even if you feel completely righteous in your stance), you are adding to your marital troubles" (Gottman, 1994, p. 85).

Becoming familiar with the signs of defensiveness in its various forms (Gottman, 1994, p. 85):

1. Denying responsibility (no matter what is brought up, one has had no responsibility or role)
2. Making excuses (it's always someone else's or something else's fault that forces one to act in a certain way).
3. Disagreeing with negative assumptions one's partner has about feelings, behavior, or motives. Instead of exploring why they feel what they feel, the gut reaction is defensiveness.
4. Cross-complaining. Meeting the partner's complaint or criticism with an immediate complaint/criticism, totally ignoring what the partner has said.
5. Rubber Man/Rubber Woman: Ah yes. It's the attitude from the playground, "I'm rubber, you're glue. Whatever you say bounces off me and sticks to you". In other words, in one swift move a person manages to not only defend themselves, but blames the partner.
6. Yes-Butting. The statements that start off agreeing, but end up disagreeing.
7. Repeating Yourself: Rather than attempting to understand the spouse's point of view, couples who specialize in this technique simply repeat back their own position. Both think they are right, and that trying to understand the other's perspective is a waste of time. It doesn't lead anywhere.
8. Whining: How things are said, usually in a high-pitched nasal tone, and stressing syllables.
9. Body Language: A false smile (corners of the mouth rise, but the eyes don't change), shifting body weight from side to side (as if avoiding a punch), and folding your arms across your chest. Sometimes women play with their neck as if they were wearing a necklace.

In the case of stonewalling, there seems to be a gender difference. Stonewalling often happens while a couple is talking. The stonewaller removes themself by turning into a stone wall, and they don't respond. Some don't react at all, and sometimes they will up and leave the room. "Stonewallers often claim that they are trying to be 'neutral' and not make things worse. They do not seem to realize that stonewalling itself is a very powerful act: it conveys disapproval, icy distance, and smugness" (Gottman, 1994, p. 85). This is a problem that women seem to have with their men, as 85% of stonewallers are male. Some have ingrained it as a pattern of reaction, and some are reacting to the flooding written about in the previous post.

Furthermore, it not only adds stress to the relationship, but also to the stonewallers themselves, and even though they believe it will calm them. Why? "even when they withdraw from an argument they are more likely to repeat negative thoughts that keep them riled up. Phrases such as; "I don't have to take this crap", "It's all her fault", or "I'll get back at her for this". Such inner scripts, whether of righteous indignation or innocent victimization, are clearly not self-soothing. Compared with a woman, it seems to be much harder for a man to relax his guard and say, "Honey, let's talk about it" (Gottman, 1994, p. 147).

High stress levels are maintained as a result of these inner scripts, and it takes them much longer to calm down, and for the adrenaline surges and blood pressure to decline back to normal. In addition, the amount of negativity that comes from this pattern can lead a female into dangerous silence. They begin to fear their partners. And, well..I really don't think this is what males honestly wish for their relationships.

Sigh, yikes, and ugh. In taking a really good look at these patterns, it seems apparent that they are child-like responses used as a result of lacking more adult skills in close intimate relationships. Yet, I doubt there's a person out there that hasn't utilized these patterns at some point in time, or even often.

The good news is that old learning can be replaced with more constructive and adult-like skills. One step at a time. In working on weeding out the old, success may not happen 100% all at once. As with most things, it's a process, and a work in progress. Yet, each little step helps! Each step is a brave and admirable step, and something to be proud of.

The first step is to make the decision to do it.

Then it is necessary to really think about all of the above stated, and honestly identify those patterns which one personally uses. This is called self-reflection. The danger here is people falling into a trap of, "Well, they (the other person) started this, that, or the other thing". That does not work, nor help. The truth is that at any point in time, each person has the power to change the direction, and even in the middle of a disagreement. Each person also has that responsibility.

The third is to push the fear aside, and engage and initiate even if it may feel unfair to have to be the first to move in a better direction. I think that many people wait for the other to begin, and then nothing happens. It may feel like a huge responsibility, but it is the adult thing to do, and it adds to positive integrity. The easiest thing is to initiate "nothing", because it feels safe.

Do not fear! We are not yet finished with this subject.

Stay tuned for the continuation.......

Tamera Daun©

Resource: Gottman, J. (1994). Why marriages succeed and fail. NY: Simon & Schuster.

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Relationships/Marriage and Conflict Resolution. What gets in the way?

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 22:00:00 +0000

My fingers have been itching to get this info out to anyone stopping by in search of knowledge about their relationship/marriage. The subject deals with resolving conflicts and issues that pop up along the way.

The following information is fantastic! It is a vital piece of knowledge that helps the puzzle fall into place. In order to succeed in something, we need to become knowledgeable about it. Only then can we see the way forward with clarity.

We all know that "issues" will be a part of marriage, so denial about this fact won't work. Two people cannot be the clone of the other, and this means that the two individuals in a relationship may differ in what is important to them. Part of loving another person is respecting who they are, even if you don't agree with everything that they do. These differences often bubble up as "issues". Being different is not a problem in itself. It is a good thing, because each person brings an array of strengths and capabilities to the relationship/marriage.

That which does seem to be a problem and cause of much frustration for countless couples, is that too many times it seems as though issues don't become resolved. Issues get repeatedly brought up, or people may feel that in worst case they get swallowed and treated with silence after repeated arguments about them. Sometimes they may lead to detrimental behavior. These situations create tension, and drives emotional and physical wedges between two people in the relationship.

It is also a fact that women are usually responsible for bringing issues to the table that need to be resolved. More often than not, they are things happening in the relationship that need to be improved. Thus, the age-old phenomenon of "talking things out". Women usually wish for opinions and feelings about any given issue to be calmly aired by both in an empathetic way, whereby contributing to solutions that both may suggest. The goal is usually to come to compromise or solutions that both feel are acceptable, which will lead to greater satisfaction for both, and improvement in the relationship.

The problem is that all too many couples never reach consensus. They never get through the process. Something else happens along the way, and the symptoms show up as common complaints about each other.

Men state: "She nags. I can never do anything right. Does she have to make an issue of every little thing? The only thing I receive is criticism, criticism, criticism".

Women state: "He doesn't care about me or the relationship. He refuses to talk about things that are not going well. He seems to want the relationship to fail. He never listens to me, and he doesn't even try to understand me. He is an emotionally cold person".

Now, most relationships can tolerate an issue or two not being resolved on the first couple of attempts, but if "non-resolution" begins to describe the couple's conflict resolution style as the status-quo, it's time to "do better".

How little girls and boys grow up to act and operate as social beings is well-known. So, men and women are quite different in how they deal in their life arenas. In general, women are 'talkers' and men are 'doers', albeit on an individual sliding scale, and existing exceptions. However, there is an important biological difference as well, and it greatly affects the process of resolving conflicts.

A couple of questions to the women out there. Have you ever been involved in a 'relationship/issue discussion' with your partner/spouse only to experience that they get up in the middle and walk away? Or, withdraw and refuse to speak? Or, that if they do discuss they are answering and talking in a different direction than your original concern, and you know best what that concern was about? Have you ever been told that you are making things up, or overreacting?

And, a couple of questions to the men out there. Have you ever felt overwhelmed by a surprise conversation started about a relationship issue? Have you ever felt angry or unfairly treated and tried to avoid harming the other? Have you ever emotionally/mentally/verbally withdrawn from an argument, so that it would stop? Have you ever thought that walking away from the situation would avoid conflict escalation, and in doing so, you thought it would help? Have you then ever experienced your partner coming after you even more upset?

The truth is that women do not intend to hurt their partners nor the relationship by bringing an issue to light. The truth is also that the male partner does care about his partner and the relationship. So, the following is the helpful piece of biological knowledge I mentioned.

Men have a sympathetic nervous system that is more sensitive than women, and it tends to overreact to a perceived threat or attack, even though it no longer comes from tigers and bears in our modern day living. This phenomenon is called "flooding", and the message that the brain receives in these situations is to react with the old "fight or flight" strategy. However, they may not be consciously aware of what is happening, except perhaps a sensation of feeling overwhelmed.

The above stated is a reaction to stress. So, if a woman has ever had a reaction to stress (and I know all have), this should be a point of empathy easily felt. When this happens, the heart action increases, and the blood pressure as well. The body prepares for 'fight or flight', and the condition is quite uncomfortable. During hot topic discussions between couples, a man's blood pressure not only rises, it does so quickly, and it maintains higher levels than a woman's. There is an increase of released adrenaline, and this makes it more difficult for a man to hear what his partner is actually expressing. The fact that men are socially conditioned to hold in their emotions only compounds the situation, and worsens their stress reaction. Furthermore, it takes longer for a man's condition to stabilize, after the fact.

It is important to note that some men are more sensitive and/or defensive than others. Defensiveness may also be a reaction to a relationship that has foregone a multitude of frequently occurring conflicts. They may also anticipate an argument coming (based on past unsuccessful attempts to resolve issues) by the look on their partner's upset face long before a word is uttered, and not hear the difference between a concern/complaint and a criticism. In other words, their stress reaction may already be bubbling, and they may withdraw before anything has started. They believe it will help the situation, and the success of the relationship.

Women also anticipating and stuck between the choice of 'another failure' and her loyalty to the marriage and its success (her version of a wish to help), may still choose to bring up an issue while fearing a negative outcome. This fear or anticipation may lead her to begin with a personal criticism, forgetting to keep to the less detrimental form of 'complaint' about something happening in the relationship.

Does this all seem messy? Well, in a way it is. But, it is also wonderful!

Why?

1. It takes the emotional hook out of the cycle. Couples experiencing this are far from alone, there is nothing wrong with either person in the relationship, and both believe they are 'caring'.

2. Something CAN be done about it.

Stay tuned for the continuation.....

Update: continuation of this series can be found here;
Detrimental Relationship Patterns. Working toward resolution.

Tamera Daun©

Resource: Gottman, J. (1994). Why marriages succeed and fail. NY: Simon & Schuster.

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Common Cold Remedies, part 2

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 16:15:00 +0000

There is an old saying portraying the idea that it is not the invading germ/agent that is the problem, but the terrain in which it lands. Our Western model of medicine spends vast amounts of resources and research to rid us of foreign agents around each corner we turn, but little focus is placed on maintaining healthy condition of the terrain, namely our bodies. Does it make a difference? Of course it does, and especially with illnesses such as the cold, flu, digestive germs, and all those commonplace upsets experienced by all at some point in time, and of which are often preventable.

Believe it or not, the pharmaceutical industry counts on you not taking care of yourself, because they need to sell an array of concoctions to kill each symptom that is a signal from your body about its needs. Unfortunately we fall for the jargon, and place our consumer dollars in these products, because we don't trust our innate ability to self-heal in a short amount of time. It is true that pharmaceuticals are sometimes necessary, but that is a long shot from the overuse and abuse that we currently find in our society. It is also true that the better condition your body is generally in, the quicker it will heal if a bug should bite, or some normal bacteria usually found in you, runs amok. There's no way around that fact.

We should all take better care of ourselves, and goodness knows we all have our little bad habits. Nevertheless, I tend to believe that albeit a bad habit or two, our general self-care practices year 'round are much more important. I am not a proponent of health fanaticism. I hold much more faith in the idea that we mortal human beings just like to feel a little better, experience a little more energy as opposed to exhaustion, and like to experience that our bodies and minds easily overcome inevitable challenges throughout a lifetime. This discussion can be continued at another time, because sometimes we do sneeze and cough, and this is what this post is really about as part 2 in, Woe is the Common Cold.

As I mentioned in part 1, I recently took a long travel abroad, so allow me to use my experience as a clinical example. I am no travel novice, so I knew that I would have to stay in-tune to my body and its needs for rest, liquids, and nutrients. In addition, our team was competing in an athletic exchange, and these harsher conditions meant an extra load on mind and body. I did a pretty good job of balancing, and even though I had to say 'no thanks' to a couple of trips out in the late evening in order to rest. How did I do it? By simply listening to the signals my body and mind were sending; hour by hour, and day by day. Although, I must admit that I experienced the diet in China as cleansing and healing in its own right, and I was thankful to have that 11 day experience.

My little cold hit on the way home, which entailed re-routing and an exhausting two days of travel. As we sat on the airplane the last two hours with air-conditioning too high for passengers sitting in a passive environment, I caught a chill. As my feet froze toward numbness (too tired to ask for a blanket), I felt my throat begin to ache. It continued to worsen, and I woke up the next morning with a terrible sore throat, and my head congested as all get out.

This last point is of major importance. Why? Because most people know what happened prior to feeling terrible. Most of us are able to express the condition of our personal terrain and the external conditions at the time. People will state that they were 'stressed' whatever the factor, were extremely busy (running themselves ragged), and they caught a chill, slept too little, didn't have time to eat, etc. Intuitively we know what has happened, and even though it is too late once a cold has hit, it is still not too late to use the same thinking to remedy, and expedite healing.

This train of thought is not new and I certainly don't take credit for it. It may be ancient, but it is logical and in accordance with physiological principles. It provides two major clues in healing 'self', both the condition of the inner terrain, and the environmental factors that influence that terrain. I realize that in our society we have a tendency to think that we are 'super-something' and above all laws of nature, but this is unfortunately wishful thinking.

Firstly, it is important to not fight your illness. Let the progression of symptoms lead you to 'feel-good' measures that support healing. Let your immune system exercise its strength, and get a work out. Over-the-counter pharmaceutical products are counter-productive in this process, and will defeat the process. You need to sneeze and cough to get the crud up and out!

Yes, drink purified water and fruit/vegetable juices to loosen the congestion and phlegm, and hydrate your body. Rest is necessary, because your body does its best healing when the mind is not in the way with its 'I don't feel good' thinking, and when it's not busy with after-meal digestion, among other activities that use up energy. When your body can conserve energy, it will heal more quickly. You can also do some light stretching to encourage non-stressful circulation that prevents stagnation.

Do your best to eat lightly on fruits, salads, vegetables, and easily digested proteins so that your system isn't taxed and working overtime. In this way, you give your body more bang for the buck with vitamins and minerals that are needed while your metabolism is increased, and the minerals will chelate the waste more easily from the body. A little protein (don't overdo it) is necessary to re-build your cellular reserves. All of these measures I mentioned in the first post, and they will help you support the terrain that was 'run down' when your health crises hit.

Secondly, the aspect that I did not mention in part 1, is balancing the influence that the outer condition created within. In Eastern medicinal thought, it's as easy as 1,2,3. Well, and 4. It goes something like this:

1. If it's damp, dry it.

2. If it's dry, moisten it.

3. If it's cold, warm it.

4. If it's too warm, cool it.

These principles are often used to heal, and in this thinking we are unified with our environment, and any imbalance in the inner or outer terrain influences/upsets the other. It is that simple, and whether many nurses know it or not, they use these principles each day in their work with patients. So, as you support your inner terrain back to health, choose those liquids and foods that balance the prior imbalance.

If you catch a chill, choose herbal teas, soups, and food that are lukewarm or warm. This can mean taking fruit out of the refrigerator for a while to take the edge off the chill. Some wonder how you can possibly catch a chill from heat? It is possible to experience cold symptoms from too much heat/sun. However, any over-use of your mental capacity, such as; stress, work, computer use, study, and emotional worry caused by events in your personal life, all constitute symptoms labeled as 'heat'. If you are living these conditions over time, cool liquids, foods, and living conditions (rooms) are the balancing measures in balancing your inner terrain. Of course this also means cutting down on the activities creating the imbalance, and creating new balancing habits. Heat is seen as an aggressive element, so don't be surprised if you experience irritation, exhaustion/tiredness, run-away thoughts, negative thinking, and/or inconsistent digestion, just to name a few.

It's important to also inform you of the fact that these principles are much more complex as a working model than I have outlined above. However, you don't have to be a specialist to at least try them in this simplistic form as a layperson. It is an excellent exercise in getting to know your body, and a helpful aid as a compass in guiding your condition back to well-being. You can always find a quality/trained TCM specialist to teach you more, if you are interested.

Remember these guidelines, as they may seem a bit counter-intuitive to your preferences. How? Take my experience as a good example. Although I had caught a chill on the plane, I craved something cold to drink as I exited the airport into the evening heat of Houston. Does this give you an idea of how your split-second cravings can work against you?

There will be one last post in this series as the subject needed a breakdown, but I'd like to mention one last point regarding the above ideas. Remember that your body and your environment are never static. They are ever-flowing, ever-changing, and wonderfully dynamic. If you listen to your body, you will be able to adjust to what it needs to balance its inner flora. You may need to cool one hour, day or week, only to turn around and do the opposite in another given frame of time. Use any time of health challenge to get to know your body intimately, and to support it, so that it may work for you.

As you adjust, remember that you are engaging in fantastic measures that enhance your experience of well-being, so that you can fully engage in, and enjoy each day in passing with more energy, joy, and happiness. And, this is what we human beings were meant to be for ourselves, our closest relations, our work, and interaction with the rest of the world.

Stay tuned for part 3 of, Woe is the Common Cold

Take Care,

Tamera Daun©

Flu and Cold Remedies for Wellbeing. Woe is the common cold.

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 19:45:00 +0000

'Tis the season, or something like that. For adults and kids alike, we are headed into the fall months of sniffles and sore throats. So, let's discuss the mundane subject of the common cold.

Why? Well, why not? I'm sure if asked, we could all list our personal methods of dealing with the symptoms while waiting for the crud to pass, but I'm not so sure that we actually do these things, or treat ourselves with kindness in the process. I will admit that I am currently recovering from a cold that hit me at the end of an exhausting travel home from abroad. So, after feeling like a big 'ole baby the past several days, let's roll with a few thoughts while my level of empathy is heightened. :)

As your Nurse, I would probably wag my finger touting liquids, propping pillows to improve the all-important healing effects of sleep, complete rest, and containing the risk of infecting others by remaining at home. Oh, yes! Remember the washing of hands, and frequently. A few more points would be included, but that's the jist of the procedure.

As your Nutritionist, I would also encourage liquids. But I would take it a little further, encouraging nutritional support of the body in order to ease symptoms and discomfort, and speed the recovery process. Our metabolism increases as our immune system fights any little buggers that have succeeded in overpowering us. This means that free radicals increase and there are antioxidant measures we can take to neutralize them, eliminate waste more easily, and help our system to battle more efficiently. The consumption of adequate nutrients is also necessary in filling reserves, and equally important is the avoidance of foods that further congest or tax the body in a variety of ways (such as processed, and dairy. The last category would include the milkshake I had yesterday evening).

Advocating mind-body wellness as an essential premise of healing, I would encourage you to take the time to listen to what your body is signalizing, and go with it as you sense your way toward recovery. This would include which types of liquids you feel inclined to consume. It would also include where you feel you can rest the best. On the sofa? In the bedroom, away from the TV? In a sun-filled room, or in a dark and cool room? I trust you get the idea of what I mean here. They are all those detailed preferences that enhance relaxation/well-being, whereby increasing the release probability of helpful endorphins (among other peptides), and for the single most important reason that your immune cells have receptors for endorphins (your natural painkillers). Believe it or not, these cells migrate (are attracted) toward concentrations of these types of peptides. We call this process, chemotaxis.

Are you still awake out there? The above mentioned are vague ideas, and I trust that they are not new to most of you. But, which are most important? Which help the most? And, how do you put them all together to a more specific plan to help you as an individual in a specific situation that may differ from your last or your next bout of illness? Stay tuned for part 2 and the continuation of "Woe is the common cold", and there just may be a little something new to consider.

Take Care,
Tamera Daun©

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Return from China

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 20:20:00 +0000

It's true. I have been absent once again. I recently got home from a two week trip to China, and am recovering from serious jetlag. I was over there with the U.S. Team competing in an International tai chi competition in JiaoZuo, and it was quite the experience. We were approximately 20,000 athletes participating in Henan Province, which lasted for five days. We were able to do a little sightseeing as well, some in Henan, and a couple of days in Beijing before we flew home. The image in this post is from a wonderful place called Wenpan Valley.

The past few months have been so very busy, yet equally filled with new impressions. I think that at least a hundred blog post ideas (or, so it feels) have floated through my mind rooted in these experiences, but I'm at a bit of a loss as to where to begin, and also how to continue where I left off. Throughout these weeks; new (yet, old) perspectives have appeared, pieces in specific puzzles of understanding have fallen into place, and long-ago asked questions were answered. Yet another slight inner 'shift' has occurred, and a bit of change has manifested. I will admit that the past weeks have not entirely been an easy ride for several reasons, but I remain thankful for the trip overseas. I am also grateful that my awareness remained 'in tune'.

My reflections have spanned a variety of subjects from individual health issues to widely accepted beliefs about health and its premises. They have revolved around development, and the ethics of human interaction and community. They have also touched upon issues of freedom and security, and the illusions of both. Although these are old subjects of contemplation for me, I feel new dimensions are continuously revealed as I expand as an individual and professional.

The near future will be just as busy as well. I finished my Masters degree in Nutrition in June, and began my doctoral work in Health Education this fall. In other words, I should actually be studying as I write this. We are also leaving in two weeks for our late summer vacation headed into beautiful Autumn colors up the Eastern Canadian coastline. I am looking forward to it, and when we return, we will be once more moving into a new home. There is much to be done, so I will have to get some writing done whenever possible.

I would like to wish everyone a fabulous start on Autumn 2009!

Take Care,
Tamera Daun©

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Mind-Body Science. Is the issue of the mind-body connection resolved?

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 03:04:00 +0000

I couldn't resist the urge to jump in here with a little side-track post.

We took a trip to the bookstore about a month ago, and since I had a study break, I picked up a few books that interested me. I've posted a few tidbits and tips from these sources while reading. I've also searched for the sources on Amazon and linked to them in my posts. I don't receive affiliate commission for doing so. My intention is only to make it a little easier for interested individuals to find these sources.

I am currently enjoying a book entitled, Molecules of Emotion written by Candace B. Pert, Ph.D. The truth is that this book has me fully engrossed due to Dr. Pert's expert ability to weave the story of her fascinating career into the historical account of mind-body science development.

Candace Pert found the opiate receptor three decades ago, her research efforts harvesting rich discoveries since the early 1970's. Her candid and lively storytelling brings us behind closed doors, disclosing a harsh reality of which not many are aware. I find myself laughing, moved, and ranting as she depicts the trials of being female in the 'good 'ole boys' circle of science. A colorful and spunky woman that dared to challenge the current paradigm of her time, and the politics surrounding it all. A paradigm that the establishment was adamantly set on clinging to, come hell or high water. That is, until she made her first discovery, and colleagues raced to beat her to the next.

Dr. Pert has had an amazing career thus far, and she is currently a Research Professor in the Department of Physiology and Biophysics at Georgetown University Medical Center in Washington, D.C., where she also conducts AIDS research. She was featured in the PBS series Healing and the Mind, and lectures extensively throughout the country.

Allow me to share a few words from the author herself describing how the scientific community got on the track of separating the mind from the physical body. Goodness knows it has been a troublesome journey, including countless patients that have struggled to gain understanding for their symptoms. After all, if lab tests cannot show pathology, the patient risks receiving a skeptical glance from their physician expressing, "There's nothing wrong with you. It's all in your mind".

Dr. Pert (2003) points out that;

As a culture we are all in denial about the importance of psychosomatic causes of illness. Break the word psychosomatic down into its parts, and it becomes psyche, meaning mind or soul, and soma, meaning body. Though the fact that they are fused into one word suggests some kind of connection between the two, that connection is anathema in much of our culture. For many of us, and certainly for most of the medical establishment, bringing the mind too close to the body threatens the legitimacy of any particular illness, suggesting it may be imaginary, unreal, unscientific.

If psychological contributions to physical health and disease are viewed with suspicion, the suggestion that the soul- the literal translation of psyche- might matter is considered downright absurd. For now we are getting into the mystical realm, where scientists have been officially forbidden to tread ever since the seventeenth century. It was then that René Descarte, the philosopher and scientist, was forced to make a turf deal with the Pope in order to get the human bodies he needed for dissection. Descartes agreed he wouldn't have anything to do with the soul, the mind, or the emotions- those aspects of human experience under the virtually exclusive jurisdiction of the church at the time- if he could claim the physical realm as his own. Alas, this bargain set the tone and direction for Western science over the next two centuries, dividing human experience into two distinct and separate spheres that could never overlap, creating the unbalanced situation that is mainstream science as we know it today.

But much of that is changing. A growing number of scientists recognize that we are in the midst of a scientific revolution, a major paradigm shift with tremendous implications for how we deal with health and disease. The Cartesian era, as Western philosophical thought since Descartes has been known, has dominated by reductionist methodology, which attempts to understand life by examining the tiniest pieces of it, and then extrapolating from those pieces to overarching surmises about the whole. Reductionist Cartesian thought is now in the process of adding something very new and exciting- and holistic.......This more holistic approach complements the reductionist view, expanding it rather than replacing it, and offers a new way to think about health and disease- not just for us scientists, but for the lay person also (p.18).

Dr. Pert (2003) continues by adding;

Truly original, boundary-breaking ideas are rarely welcomed at first, no matter who proposes them. Protecting the prevailing paradigm, science moves slowly, because it doesn't want to make mistakes. Consequently, genuinely new and important ideas are often subjected to nitpickingly intense scrutiny, if not outright rejection and revulsion, and getting them published becomes a Sisyphean labor. But if the ideas are correct, eventually they will prevail. It may take, as in the case of the new discipline of psychoneuroimmunology, a good decade, or it may take much longer. But, eventually, the new view becomes the status quo, and ideas that were rejected as madness will appear in the popular press, often touted by the very critics who did so much to impede their acceptance. Which is what is happening today as a new paradigm comes into being.

And not a moment too soon as far as the holistic/alternative health crowd is concerned. They've been disgusted with the reigning medical model for years and have, in fact, been working actively to overturn it. It's largely through their efforts that such formerly dismissed techniques as acupuncture and hypnosis have gained the credibility they now have. But even when I talk with the average health-conscious consumer, people who have no ideological animus one way or the other, I'm always astonished at how deep their anger at our present health system is. It's obvious the public is catching on to the fact that they're the ones paying monstrous health care bills for often worthless procedures to remedy conditions that could have been prevented in the first place (p.19).

It would seem as though we finally, albeit somewhat slow and crooked, are headed down a healthier path. That is, if research funding can find its way to responsible hands and progressive scientists, not too tightly tied to lobbying giants. Is it possible?

So, there you have my share for the day. I highly recommend this book if you have the spare time. It's one of the best insider-accounts I have ever had the pleasure of reading.

Pert, Candace B. (2003). Molecules of emotion. NY: Scribner

Take care,
Tamera Daun©

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The Poverty/Hunger - Obesity Paradox

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 21:28:00 +0000

While on the subject of food insecure families and malnutrition (Malnourished America), I thought it might be interesting to take a look at the poverty & hunger - obesity paradox.

At first glance it may surprise a few. After all, how can impoverished individuals with little money eat their way to obesity? Perhaps they are not so poor? Perhaps they receive more than enough federal aid, and need less? How can this be? See if the following information confirms your knowledge, or if it challenges your thinking regarding the issue.

Let it be stated that my intention is not to suggest that all incidence of obesity is due to poverty, nor that each person at poverty threshold is obese. My intention is to provide one explanation surrounding the obesity issue that may not be wide-spread knowledge. My main concern regarding the health of people has the subject of malnutrition at its core.

Although this post addresses the food-insecure-hungry-obese as nationally defined (both poverty threshold and poverty guidelines), I hold a suspicion that other food insecure families without hunger may also account for a percentage of the obesity statistic, based upon similar principles of inadequate nutrition, related to family/individual budgets. By inadequate, I mean quality food that promotes good health, and therefore healthy weight (BMI ratios utilized as national standards). Neither is it unthinkable that a number of these two food insecure groups may overlap and/or interchange at any given point in time.

As of 2005, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services defined a poverty-level income as $19,350 annually for a family of four. Statistical updates are available at www.census.gov (and, http://aspe.hhs.gov/poverty/index.shtml).

According to Boyle & Holben (2006), "Hunger and food insecurity have been called America's 'hidden crises'. At the same time, obesity has been declared an epidemic. Both obesity and food insecurity are serious health problems, sometimes coexisting in the same families and the same individuals, and for reasons that researchers now are beginning to understand" (p.129).

The following are three important explanations (Boyle, M. & Holben, D., 2006, p.129):

The need to maximize caloric intake. Without adequate resources for food, families must make decisions to stretch their food money as far as possible and maximize the number of calories they can buy so that their members do not suffer frequent hunger. Low-income families therefore may consume lower-cost foods with relatively higher levels of calories per dollar to stave off hunger when they lack the money or other resources to purchase a more healthful balance of more nutritious food.

The tradeoff between food quantity and quality. Research on coping strategies among food insecure households shows that, along the continuum of typical coping strategies, food quality is generally affected before the quantity of intake. Households reduce food spending by changing the quality or variety of food consumed before they reduce the quantity of food eaten. As a result, although families may get enough food to avoid feeling hungry, they also may be poorly nourished, because they cannot afford an adequate diet that averts obesity.

Overeating when food is available. In addition, obesity can be an adaptive response to periods when people are unable to get enough to eat. Research indicates that chronic ups and downs in food availability can cause people to eat more, when food is available, than they normally would. When money or food stamps are not available for purchases during the month, people may overeat during the days when food is available. Over time, this cycle can result in weight gain. Research among food insecure families also shows that low-income mothers first sacrifice their own nutrition by restricting their food intake in order to protect their children from hunger. This practice may result in eating more than is desirable when food is available, thereby contributing to obesity among poor women.

Women are mentioned in the last point. Ethnic minorities, the elderly, the young, inner-city and rural dwellers, populations in certain Southern and Western states, many farmers, and the homeless join low-income women in making up the majority of "the poor" in this country. Furthermore, the 2001 recession was accompanied by an increase in unemployment, and the food stamp caseload. So, what can we expect from this recession? It is a frightening thought to consider.

p.s. I headed out the other day on a little personal experiment. I was not only out to compare food item prices and quality within the framework of tight-budget thinking, but also with accessibility in mind. I encountered an extra surprise on my trip, so I'll jot down my thoughts in a post very soon.

Take Care,
Tamera Daun©

Reference: Boyle, M., & Holben, D. (2006). Community nutrition in action. Ca: Thomson.

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Malnourished America. What does food security mean, and does it describe you?

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 21:37:00 +0000

An intelligent and knowledgeable discussion instigated by two readers at Money-Saving tips for Your Health inspired this post. It is a subject that has been on my mind for a couple of months, and one that provokes emotions in me for various reasons. It is quite complex and will most likely demand several posts in order to break it down for proper discussion.

We deal with a major health issue in this country, which is also slowly increasing in other Western countries. At this point many would most likely yell out the word, obesity. To that I would state that it is indeed an aspect of the larger picture. There is no doubt about that, and there is even a term coined to describe a large percentage of this group. It is called the, Poverty-Obesity Paradox. But, I'll let that one remain on the table for another time.

Believe it or not; despite the number of food choices in supermarkets, super-size meals at the drive-thru, and the extra body-weight of Americans observed by the rest of the world, we have a malnutrition issue in this country. Many are aware of it and educated about it, but they are far from the majority. Education and measures of prevention will play a paramount role in the future health and well-being of Americans.

So, where can we begin to understand what's happening? Why are people not healthier when we spend enormous amounts of money on health care? Why the prevalence of obesity? Why so much illness? Why so much depression and anxiety?

Well, we have long since understood the premises of "health". Science has helped our definitions of health and illness to evolve. Everything we health-care workers do is based on the knowledge of how our bodies should function. And, this knowledge base grows each year in passing. We know that adequate nutrition is a necessary premise. In other words, a necessary building-block of health. Your car won't get far without gas, and neither will your body without nutrients it can utilize for its biochemical processes.

The definition of malnutrition? Insufficient nutrition; a condition where the diet omits some foods that are necessary for health (Oxford Reference Dictionary, 1987, p.505).

Strangely enough, it is not always personal "bad habit" that leads us to less than optimal food choices, obesity, or poor health. Our government knows it, and there are federal programs that aim to alleviate like band-aids on a chronic sore. That is, if you are eligible.

A 2003 study done by the American Dietetic Association showed that, "over 12 million households, representing over 36 million people, experienced hunger or the risk of hunger, because of the lack of resources" (Boyle, M. & Holben, D., 2006, p.121). Now, this tells us something about the prevalence of 'the hungry'. However, our government places households into one of three categories (Boyle, M. & Holben, D., 2006, p.120):

Food secure: Households with no or minimal evidence of food insecurity. I would like to add here that resourceful families can also experience malnutrition due to a lack of knowledge about their health, or because of learned behaviors.

Food secure without hunger: Households experiencing uncertain access to sufficient food, concerned about inadequate resources to buy enough food, and who can't afford to eat balanced meals.

Food insecure with hunger: Households in which the adults have decreased the quantity as well as the quality of food they consume (because of lack of resources).

We may automatically think that food insecure families are way below the poverty thresholds defined by federal (or state) guidelines. Yet, this is not always true. As you can most likely imagine there are countless families with mouths to feed that are unable to afford quality and nutrient-dense foods on a regular basis.

Parents are often faced with difficult decisions as to how they must prioritize resources and meet the needs of their families. Nutritious foods are often expensive and the opposite, cheaper. Thus, budgets can be stretched a little more, stomachs filled, and pangs of hunger alleviated. And, all at the expensive of long-term health. This was my own upbringing as daughter to a hard-working single mother holding down two, often three jobs, at minimum wage.

They are also households of the recently unemployed in the current recession. They are the elderly that are incapable of getting out to do their own shopping. They are households without access to public transportation, which makes them dependent on whatever the local corner shop sells. They are also families faced with medical bills due to an unexpected illness. Not surprisingly, "39% of emergency food recipient households (served in soup kitchens, food pantries, and shelters) have at least one adult working" (Boyle, M. & Holben, D., 2006, p.123)

We cannot always distinguish which families are food secure or food insecure households just by looking at them. So, it is imperative that we withhold from generalizing and stereotyping. Life can throw a curve ball at anyone, and at any time. Too many families are caught in a vicious cycle of life events or crises, and our system keeps them there, struggling.

I'll sign off for now due to the length of this post, but please take a look at the following quick post about federal programs, and the USDA nutrition guidelines they follow: USDA. The scandalous food pyramid.

Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself (herself) and his (her) family, including food, clothing, housing, and medical care and necessary social services, and the right to security in the event of unemployment, sickness, disability, widowhood, old age, or other lack of livelihood in circumstances beyond his (her control).

-The United Nations General Assembly's Universal Declaration of Human Rights-

Reference: Boyle, M., & Holben, D. (2006). Community nutrition in action. Ca: Thomson.

Tamera Daun©

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H1N1 Virus Update, Swine Flu. Resources that will keep you updated.

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 02:33:00 +0000

There has been a dramatic increase in traffic/individuals searching for H1N1 virus updates the past couple of weeks. People have found their way to a quick post I wrote about the pandemic some time ago (follow and track outbreak incidence). Needless to say, a new update has been on my mind.

I must admit that I become a little anxious at the thought of people feeling unnecessarily frightened or nervous about the virus, and especially if they should go so far as to allow these feelings to disrupt their everyday lives. I will most likely never know the reason for the recent increase. Nevertheless, it's important to be informed, and remain calm.

On a side note, I have read complaints about media sources around the world depicting the pandemic in a 'media-hype' manner, although I haven't come across any such examples, myself.

I spent some time today scouring articles, looking to compile a list of recent information and resources that may benefit anyone passing through here. I was not overly impressed with the pickings, nor with their usefulness. I do believe that the best and most correct updates people can follow are provided by, The World Health Organization.

Let's take a look at two frequently asked questions about this pandemic:

#1 What about severity? (www.who.int. June 11, 2009)

At this time, WHO considers the overall severity of the influenza pandemic to be moderate. This assessment is based on scientific evidence available to WHO, as well as input from its Member States on the pandemic's impact on their health systems, and their social and economic functioning.

The moderate assessment reflects that:

Most people recover from infection without the need for hospitalization or medical care.
Overall, national levels of severe illness from influenza A(H1N1) appear similar to levels seen during local seasonal influenza periods, although high levels of disease have occurred in some local areas and institutions.
Overall, hospitals and health care systems in most countries have been able to cope with the numbers of people seeking care, although some facilities and systems have been stressed in some localities.

WHO is concerned about current patterns of serious cases and deaths that are occurring primarily among young persons, including the previously healthy and those with pre-existing medical conditions or pregnancy.

Large outbreaks of disease have not yet been reported in many countries, and the full clinical spectrum of disease is not yet known.

#2 What do I do now? What actions should I look for in my community? (www.who.int , June 11, 2009)

Stay informed. Go to reliable sources of information, including your Ministry of Health, to learn what you can do to protect yourself and stay updated as the pandemic evolves. Community-specific information is available from local or national health authorities.

You can also continue to visit the WHO web site for simple prevention practices and general advice.

WHO is not recommending travel restrictions nor does WHO have evidence of risk from eating cooked pork.

For those of you that are searching for quick regional updates, here is the short list:

Some of you may prefer to subscribe to WHO's H1N1 rss feed/updates:

Subscribe to H1N1 2009

Or! You can follow them on Twitter:

WHO News (whonews)

The interactive global map of outbreak incidence from my last post is still functional, and updated:

Interactive Map

Yell out, and drop me a comment if you run across other helpful resources for readers out there.

Take care,
Tamera Daun©

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Money-Saving Tips for Your Health

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 03:35:00 +0000

These are challenging times, and as a nation we have much work ahead of us. Not only in fulfilling the objective of better health that will minimize long-term costs, but also a healthier economy.

Money feels too tight for too many right now, and until we can stop arguing each other into deadlock and head in a collective direction, the situation will remain 'as is'. Moreover, health and economic difficulties are not solely American problems. Perhaps global readers out there will become inspired by the tips, and look into how they can optimize their own health resources.

The following tips are only a few suggestions, but I hope that they will encourage creativity out there. There is money to be saved, which can be used for other purposes (Sander, P. & Sander, J., 2009):

If you have health insurance, you might be double insured for medical coverage on your auto insurance. Take a look at your auto policy and see if it makes sense to drop that part of your plan. Compare deductibles, and make sure you are not overinsured (p.59).

Exercise habits. How much do you pay a month for your gym membership, and how often do you use it? If you are not using it often enough to be worth the money, drop it. Go out walking a couple of evenings a week with your partner/spouse, and exercise your legs and your relationship at the same time! (p.69)

Let's move on to nutrition. It's easy. When possible, buy 'in season'--eat 'in season'. The best price for fruits and vegetables is "in season". If you buy produce that is locally grown, you will not be paying for cross-country transportation. Shop at farmers markets, and support your local growers. There's one other thing I know as a nutritionist, and that is that in-season produce is more nutrient dense. So, your body is getting more bang for your buck.

Here's nutrition tip #2. Go for organic grocery deals. Organic foods may be more expensive, but healthy eating is a premise of good health. Visit the website, Organic Grocery Deals (www.organicgrocerydeals.com). Here you will find discussion threads about what is on sale at Whole Foods and other big chains and where to find coupons for organic products (p.83).

Healthy eyes. If you live near a major university with a medical school, it's often possible to get routine exams, like eye exams, for cheap or even free at the school. Check for bargains, and help a student learn (p.128).

The Air Charity Network, www.aircharitynetwork.org, helps those with economic and emergency medical transportation needs. Volunteer pilots around the country donate their time, their planes, and their fuel to make it possible. If you or your family member truly cannot afford to fly somewhere for medically necessary treatment, check out this organization (p.133).

Fill your prescriptions over the border. U.S. drugmakers charge a lot more in the U.S. for pharmaceuticals, especially those with patents that cannot be distributed as generics. If you buy in Canada or Mexico, you can save up to 70% occasionally, and 30-50% frequently for drugs like Nexium or Lipitor. Check out the sites, www.drugsfromcanada.com or www.universaldrugstore.com and see if they may be of help. You will have to fax your prescription and take care of a few other details, but it's perfectly legal (p.175).

You can negotiate your medical bills. Did you know that? There may be room to negotiate some parts of a bill. For instance, if you're having two dental crowns done, the dentist may pass on some of the savings of doing it with only one appointment and even one anesthetic. According to one study, 60-70% of patients who negotiate their hospital bills receive a discount (p.256).

I believe that we have a pharmaceutical over-use problem in this country, and that we are partly responsible for these companies not only doing so well, but also keeping us in their clutches. We are the "quick-fix" and "magic-bullet" society, although an entirely different discussion for another time. However, sometimes pharmaceuticals are necessary. If money is tight, ask your doctor for samples that companies bestow upon them in order to sell. Most doctors have a room full of samples ready and waiting to give to patients who might be in need- samples of medication, or even contact lens solutions and cases. Just ask!

I'll end on a good old fashioned remedy, which is, 'just try rest'. Feeling under the weather? Sick with the cold or flu? Stay home an extra day, and rest! Many are so determined to deal with the symptoms and carry on that they end up taxing their bodies even more; the illness gets worse and lasts longer. So, to get better quickly and save money on doctor visits and all those symptom control medications, simply sleep in for a day. Your body will heal if you allow it to, and you can catch up with missed work when you are feeling better, and more productive. And for goodness sake, remember your fluids! (water, not soda). Treat your body with respect, so that it may function optimally for you.

What is your best tip that you can pass on to others?

Reference: Sander, P., & Sander, J. (2009). 573 ways to save money. Connecticut: The Lyons Press.

Tamera Daun©

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Health Reform. Lessons learned from individual states.

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 03:27:00 +0000

Health is on the table, and it has thus far involved fifty hours of debate, deliberating a $600 billion health-reform version in a bipartisan effort, including 160 Republican amendments.

In response, Obama surrounded himself with Nurses in the Rose Garden the other week, to reconfirm his commitment to health reform, but the Senate Finance Committee has yet to vote.

Obama is adamant in his plight for affordable insurance for all citizens. Insurance premiums have increased three times faster than wages the past years, the uninsured are on shaky financial ground if a crises should hit, and 'pre-existing condition' shut-outs from availability cannot possibly hit much harder on a population that is dealing with major health issues.

Obama commented that America's Nurses need for us all to 'buck up", just as Nurses do each and every day at work. The first thing we need to "buck up" to, is the truth. The first truth being the failure of the current system on several levels. This chaos cannot be allowed to continue. It behooves neither the people, nor health professionals that need to work efficiently. Healthy people are more productive, and health is an investment issue on all levels. There is no return without investment.

All citizens should have affordable coverage, and access to quality health-care. Vague tax-payer complaints touting growing government and fear of marginal tax hikes forget that this issue is about them, their extended families, their friends, colleagues, and neighbors. Yet, cries of despair can be heard when a loved one becomes sick, and coverage is either personally non-existent, or inadequate.

The reform draws on approaches that are already practiced in many states. Experiences of what works and that which is failing in the objective of a healthier nation, are currently observed and evaluated.

Let's take a look at a couple of examples (Newsweek, July 2009, p.21):

Massachusetts. Its universal mandate is touted as a national model, but the program has been mired by costs. The lesson: access and affordability must be dual goals.

Hawaii. A health-reform leader for decades, Hawaii is one of the only states with employer-mandated insurance (an element of Ted Kennedy's latest plan).

Minnesota. Home to the Mayo clinic, its MinnesotaCare is a comprehensive state-run option for low-income families that don't qualify for Medicaid.

Wisconsin. Though not as hands-on as Minnesota, it uses state-subsidized private plans to drive competition and makes it easy to receive Medicaid benefits.

Tennessee. A bare-bones statewide plan offers slim coverage for the very poor. Still, CoverTn keeps the neediest from falling through the cracks.

Indiana. Its laissez-faire style leaves many Hoosiers on their own: to get Medicaid, working parents must make less than 26% of the poverty line.

Texas. The reliance on ERs and a county-based approach make for an "inadequate" system, a 2006 task force reported. A U.S.-worst: 25 percent are uninsured.

What is the current system where you live? What do you feel is functioning well, and/or not so well?

Tamera Daun©

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100 Best Places to Live in the United States.

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 19:46:00 +0000

I highly recommend purchasing the August 2009 edition of Money Magazine. Not only do they offer a great article about how Obama wants to transform your finances, and how the reform will affect you and your family, they also list the 100 best places to live in America. Among these 100, a detailed assessment of the top ten is included.

According to Money's methodology;

"The winners were chosen by measuring and weighting the factors that Americans value most. After good jobs (growth and low unemployment), the key criteria are low crime, affordable homes (and, low property taxes), lots to do, and top-notch schools. Also factored in: data on health care, diversity, weather, and more.

The top-ranked towns not only rack up terrific scores but also possess that indefinable something- a mix of community spirit, can-do attitude, and simple charm- that makes them magnets for people looking for a great little place to raise their families" (Money, August 2009, p.71).

Income increases, general cost of living, arts and leisure, and easy access to airports were also included.

Since this is a new edition for sale, I won't provide the entire winner list. However, I will leak number 10, and it is a gorgeous town in my home state of Washington that goes by the name of, Mukilteo. This pearl is a waterfront community overlooking the Puget Sound, and our beautiful mountain ranges. Its inhabitants enjoy low taxes, fantastic schools, and the unemployment rate is half that of other locations along the Pacific.

Mukilteo, "benefits from the Seattle area's diverse job market, including high tech, aerospace, and retail 2.0 pioneers Amazon and Drugstore.com" (Money Magazine, Aug.2009, p.82). You'll find this town about 22 miles North of Seattle.

p.s. For those of you that are surviving the recession without major difficulties, and are looking for a good deal on a car, you'll also find an article entitled, "Five Great Deals on U.S. Wheels" in the August edition.

You'll also find this post at, The Chicago Sun Times

Tamera Daun©

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Campaign 'Recession 101'. Don't waste a recession.

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 20:34:00 +0000

A campaign called 'Recession 101' is up and running in Rhode Island. An anonymous financial contributor has the highways lined with billboards delivering positive messages in hope that they will expand thinking, and inspire people dealing with feelings of hopelessness.

It is a natural human reaction to think crises while enduring one. It is also easy to focus too narrowly on problems that need to be resolved. Tunnel vision can paralyze people as a result of excessive worry and fear, and may end in general non-action. It drains emotionally and mentally.

I really do believe that campaigns such as 'Recession 101' can have a positive impact on individuals and families that find themselves in financial trouble. Will reading billboards get people new jobs? Not literally, no. However, neither will depression over a newly lost job get a person hired anew, and even though it's a normal reaction. It is certainly a challenge to do so, but remaining hopeful and positive keeps those creative juices flowing, and it is this fame of mind that promotes the awareness to notice or create opportunities. These messages also serve as a reminder that we can all play a supportive role to those that are in foreclosure, or have lost a job.

The bottom line is that collectively, we have to get through this crises.

Here are a couple of examples from, Recession 101 :

Bill Gates started Microsoft in a recession
Nobody can repossess your future
Talent and experience are recession-proof assets
Interesting fact about recessions. They end.
This is a test. Not a final.

I came across something else the other day entitled, "Don't waste a good recession". The essence of the message is the following;

"We are living in interesting times. Rather than gripe about what has befallen us, use it as an opportunity to learn new things, gain new skills, and adopt a new approach to life. Focus on what is truly important to you, and let go of the things that were only superficial. This is a unique chance to acquire the courage and discipline to make important changes that will serve you well in the long run" (Sander, P. & Sander, J., 2009, p.112).

In the meantime, changing those small habits can be of great help in stretching the personal budget. Here are a couple of quick, 'save money tips' (Sander, P. & Sander, J., 2009, p.112).;

1. Change the air filter in your car (boost your car's fuel efficiency).

2. Shower together!

3. Hang your clothes out to dry when weather permits.

4. Pump up your tires (EPA studies suggest that it can save 1-2 miles per gallon).

5. Hand wash instead of dry clean your 'delicates'.

6. Take a free outing. Instead of a trip to the movies or the shopping mall, put on your jogging shoes and take a refreshing walk.

Reference: Sander, P., & Sander, J. (2009). 573 ways to save money. Connecticut: The Lyons Press.

Tamera Daun©

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Corporate Tax Crackdown. Obama hits tax havens.

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Mon, 04 May 2009 18:58:00 +0000

President Obama has initiated a tug-of-war by proposing to reform International tax codes. Tightening loopholes, and addressing the issue of tax havens abroad is the hot topic of the week, and Corporate America is fighting back.

Obama wishes to simplify tax codes, and the plan seems to have a two-fold underlying purpose. Firstly, it would seem that he wishes to stimulate job creation at home, and secondly to finance proposed programs through tax revenue. Closing questionable loopholes means that some of the current outsourcing will be less lucrative.

Corporate America is not taking this sitting down. Early out was the rebuttal and accusation that Obama's plan would cause corporations to lose a global competitive edge, and that countless jobs will be lost.

This may turn into a battle of wills, and it may get a little messy. And yet, the subject interests me for another reason. It will be fascinating to see how the Administration handles the corporate world in a conflict of interest such as this. Why? Because, there are lobbying powerhouses to be dealt with in the future, and many of them have their long arms woven through our national health industry.

Are corporations crying wolf? If jobs head back home, will they be able to compete with the low wages and costs of other countries? Will they lose the competitive edge? Give this short post consideration in your personal opinion.

Will Obama succeed in his tax reform proposal? Can it, and/or should it happen?

Tamera Daun©

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Swine Flu. Follow and track outbreak incidence on this interactive world map.

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 02:14:00 +0000

Woe is the Swine Flu, however not many complaints can be aimed at the sources of information keeping us updated. In cooperation with health officials, the mainstream media has, thus far, adequately informed us of necessary precautionary measures as the Swine Flu spreads. The President and his staff maintain calm composure.

In these types of situations I consider it vital that we allow the proper authorities to lead the way. In other words, the rest of the public should avoid adding to any potential cauldron of confusion, sometimes caused by "too much" contradictory information floating around out there. We need to stay out of the way and let the authorities do their jobs, and especially in these initial phases. I know. It's the Nurse in me talking here, but it is more important than people sometimes realize.

The purpose of this post is to encourage everyone to follow public announcements and instructions. I also wanted to share an interactive map I found that shows the city and country breakdown of disease incidence as it spreads. The map is continuously updated.

UPDATE ARTICLE (follow-up), published July 27, 2009 can be viewed here:

H1N1 Virus Update, Swine Flu. Resources that will keep you updated

Be well, and stay safe.

Here's the link:

Swine Flu Map

Tamera Daun©

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Obama and Health. Objectives for the Nation.

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 23:33:00 +0000

We all realize that the Obama Administration has inherited a whole host of issues to resolve. There is a wave of uproar sweeping from coast to coast regarding the amount of funds proposed to cover President Obama's plans and initiatives, and his health reform is one of those areas that concerns citizens. This is a legitimate complaint and concern, and it is understandable when people fear that a deficit hole will be deeper than we can manage.

Yet, while we see dollars being spent, there may be additional knowledge of which we are not aware. That knowledge may help us to better understand the health issue currently on the table, and this issue is dynamic and ever-changing.

On the one hand, we witness soaring health-care costs resulting from individual responsibility at suboptimal levels for too many. How do we know this? Well, one manifested consequence of people not taking care of their health is the extreme prevalence of obesity in this country. And, this should also be of interest to citizens in other Western countries as the numbers are increasing there as well. The World Health Organization describes obesity as "an escalating epidemic", and "four of the leading causes of death in the United States are related to dietary imbalance and excess" (Boyle & Holben, 2006, p.12).

So, many of our health-care problems leading to over the top costs are self-created problems. And, this is just one example. However, it does not help using time to lay blame, because that will not aid in getting back on track. We have to dig in and help ourselves, and each other. I bring this point to the table only as a reminder to us all that the heavy load on health-care providers is somewhat preventable.

On the other hand, our government has a responsibility and policy role to play in dealing with the health care issues of citizens. It is not a responsibility that President Obama conjured up, because he felt like spending money. Increasing the number of health-insured people, which provides access to health care, was an objective issued in the year 2000 in order to reach 2 major goals of better health and quality of life for the nation's people by 2010. We have enormous challenges to meet. An estimated "40 percent of our population- some 120 million people- will have a chronic disease or condition by the year 2010" (Boyle & Holben, 2006, p.25).

Getting our collective state of health in shape, demands an immense effort and collaboration across the board between public and private entities. Each of these entities has specific objectives to achieve, and the work is in-progress.

Firstly. Repairing the damage of existing problems and burdens needs immediate action. It is here that difficult decisions must be made, and we have the choice of actually fixing "we, the people" and our system, or leaning on timeless arguments of who gets to foot the bill. As long as insurance companies operate profit-based, the exploitation of people will resume, and countless others are shut out from coverage, and access to quality health-care.

If this is what we want, then I must question if people understand the premises of what the "highest good of this nation" are based upon.

This issue is too important to be viewed from a partisan political perspective. Why? The lives of people are at stake.

"The goals of sustainable development cannot be achieved when there is a high prevalence of debilitating illness and poverty, and the health of a population cannot be maintained without a responsive health system and a healthy environment" (2002 World Summit on Sustainable Development).

Health is recognized as a resource for, and an outcome of, sustainable development. Healthy people means productive people, and it is an important resource factor in our economy.

Secondly. The current Administration is committed to ongoing health education to fulfill disease prevention objectives, in addition to "emergency repair". Again, these working areas are specified in the most recent health initiative, issued in the year 2000.

The health initiative is entitled, Health People 2010: Understanding and Improving Health. It presents a national health agenda for the first decade of the twenty-first century. The Healthy People documents, "represent a national health agenda developed by a consortium of national health organizations, state health departments, the Institute of Medicine, and the U.S. Public Health Service" (Boyle & Holben, 2006, p. 11).

Arguments that satisfy the fear of people regarding a "socialist movement", is only fear. The issue at hand is basic in nature. It is about pursuing the opportunity of fundamental health and well-being for all human beings. Our system currently operates not much better than countries hosting dictatorship regimes, which sabotage the opportunities of its citizens to thrive and be productive.

Healthy People 2010 is the U.S. commitment to work towards that which was outlined by the nations of the world in a 1978 conference on primary health care, and convened by the World Health Organization and the United Nations Children's Fund. The goal of the world community is, "to protect and promote the health of all people in the world".

Boyle & Holben (2006). Community nutrition in action. Ca: Thomson.

Tamera Daun©

Relaying an alert to bloggers regarding the site Backtype

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 20:27:00 +0000

I was in such a good mood today that it is almost a pity to interrupt it with a rant. But, here we go. I found something this afternoon that I didn't like. My stats alerted me to numerous searches on variations of my ID. They were coming from the same location, so I clicked on one of those Google search links.

Right at the top of the first search page was an URL to an independent site, www.backtype.com

This is a site that compiles all of our comments from the web, gives them a profile page with our names/handles, and makes them a follow option for people. Others can follow and receive alerts whenever you comment on a site. Everyone should also be warned that this site publishes your Twitters to everyone on the Internet, and even though you haven't given your permission via Twitter. As we all know, we choose to allow certain followers on Twitter.

We also know that Google archives many of our comments, but they are kind of spread all over as individual links, and it really is not interesting to find and read everyone's comments through Google searching all day long. At least if we have a life. It makes it a bit more comfortable to actually comment openly on blogs. We are aware of the fact that Google archives our 'stuff' before we create a site, and they use those back-links to help configure our page-rank. There is an element of mutual consent underlying this agreement.

Okay, so what problem do I have with the site? There is no mutual consent. Their homepage states that people can submit their personal information. If you don't have a website URL to submit when signing up, you can borrow one of theirs! Wow.....This is fine enough for those that wish to do so. If they want others to follow their commenting in the blogosphere as it happens, then that's their business to allow it.

It is NOT okay in my book when my ID and name are included and used without my permission! When I search my name on their site, I get up page upon page of women with the same name, and incredibly enough the site has linked to everyone's blogger profile. Yet, it doesn't seem as though people are aware of this, as I didn't see any added avatars or website URL's, or any other sign that they are willingly participating. Most of my comments being tracked are from Wordpress blogs.

We bloggers choose to join social sites and blog communities, because we wish to be registered there. We knowingly use Twitter to send messages to followers, but it is our choice.

I read some great blogs, and I'd like to feel somewhat comfortable commenting openly without knowing that someone has an alert on what I comment. It is stated by someone on their site that people can track discussions "in case they are important discussions that need participation". But, is it necessary to track individual users and give us a profile page if we do not want it, and did not submit our information personally? I made a log-in profile after I found out about it, so that I could try to find some kind of delete option, and to send them an e-mail.

I've noted which sites my comments have been tracked, and most of them are sites in which I discuss honestly and openly about personal subjects. If any of you receive the comment "nice blog post" in the future you will at least know that I dropped by.

I've written to them and asked that my personal information be excluded, but haven't received a response. Trying to find the option to delete my name is impossible. I've also reported it to Google and explained my 'unknowing' participation submitted by someone, and against my will.

If anyone out there wishes to check out their status on that site, do a Google search on several variations of your blogger ID, and look for, www.backtype.com. You will then see if you have been added and which name they have used. You see, they used a different variation of my name.

That's it for today!

Tamera Daun©

Precious Sleep. A natural viewpoint, and tidbits about sleep.

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Mon, 13 Apr 2009 22:08:00 +0000

A good yawn that gently coaxes the body into relaxation feels great, doesn't it? And, crawling between the sheets anticipating a good night's rest is equally wonderful. Our biological clock welcomes the experience each evening, and the majority of complaints exclaim too little of this precious thing called sleep. We humans not only need sleep to survive, we love it! We also notice the effects when we lack adequate rest.

Ironically, my attention became fixed on a science program yesterday evening as I was thinking it was time to hit the hay. The Department of Neuroscience at the University of Oxford is turning out some pretty fascinating research about our biological clocks. The exciting part is that natural solutions for those with sleeping difficulties are also becoming increasingly clear as the mystery of the sleeping mechanism unfolds. It was the aspect of natural solutions and readjusting our internal clock if so needed that really caught my attention and interest. I thought to myself, 'finally! Now, we're headed somewhere'.

Aside from the fact that we all operate differently as a result of our biochemical individuality, there is one aspect that we have in common, which not only connects us humans to each other, but also with nature. This aspect is of course, light. Universally, our inner clock that regulates our sleep patterns is a biological response to sunrise, and sunset. It's pretty self-explanatory.

We'd like to think that our physiology is super-modern and capable of any adaptation, but the truth is that our bodies are still quite ancient and paleolithic. Yet, isn't it a beautiful thought? Simplicity is a beautiful thing.

We tend to forget this. Instead of helping ourselves, we fight our nature. It's like walking uphill against gusts of wind.

As I listened intently to the program and the tidbits of information and facts, I became increasingly bothered. My nagging feeling did not come from what I was hearing and seeing, but rather something else. We have a major problem in our modern societies. I know, I know. So, what's new, right?

The problem is that our living and working environments do not support our biological nature.

Let me give you an example. Individuals may feel that they are at their most creative at different times during the day. Some get their creative kick in the morning, and some in the late evening. However, studies show that productivity and clear thinking in the workplace are at their measured highest between 10am and noon. Yet, people race to work early in the morning, and push themselves to stay until evening. And, even though the heart is most vulnerable to stress and heart attacks in the early morning hours. So, it may not be the best thing for people to be stressing down the freeway, worried that they are running behind schedule?

Here's another tidbit. You know that time around noon when we can feel a little drowsy, and we think it's because we've just eaten lunch? Our conclusion is not entirely true. Research shows that our bodies go into modes called micro-sleep dips several times a day, and they are really not food related in their essence. Twenty-five percent of all accidents occur as a result of micro-sleeps, and these accidents are at their peak around 2 pm, each day. It was also stated that all that is needed when these dips happen is a quick 10-15 minutes of rest.

I don't know about you, but my mind began to reel with all sorts of solutions.

There are those that have flexible working hours, but they are far from the majority. Wouldn't it be neat if more people were allowed to work from home in the morning, making their way into the office sometime between 9-10 am? Mornings could begin with a healthy breakfast, and include scheduled work meetings via the Internet, or other small details. In addition, this time and work might be less disturbed and interrupted. Once at work, a micro-rest could be implemented after lunch for all, increasing productivity throughout the afternoon hours.

I'm certain that there are many ways in which workplaces and employers could accommodate our biology, and increase productivity through natural ways without creating stress. Sleep, rest, and less stress are so crucial to our long term health. Working more hours each day does not necessarily mean that we accomplish more. I'm sure that we've all felt that at some point in time.

I won't keep you all much longer, but I just wanted to mention a couple more odd facts. The researchers at Oxford also stated that the use of sunglasses during certain times of the day can help readjust the internal sleeping clock for those that feel it is out of whack. There are certain hours beneficial for those who feel the need to sleep late in the morning and wish to awaken earlier, and certain hours for those people that wake up too early and need an extra hour or two. The whole idea is to manipulate the amount of light entering the eye and brain at certain times, which again influences our long-term sleep patterns.

I have no doubt that simple methods like this take some time to work, but such are the natural ways of healing the body. It takes patience and consistent practice, yet the long term 'fix' outweighs the effects and consequences of medication.

The last tidbit I'll mention is about growing older, however, they didn't provide specific ages. We've all heard and know that we sleep less as we grow older. Even though we have the same number of brain cells that regulate sleep patterns, they become less active with age. In addition, the eyes also begin to fail for many, and glasses are needed. It seems as though the thickness of one's glass lenses play an important role combined with decreased activity in the brain. The thicker the lenses, the less light that reaches the brain. It all kind of works together in a negative circle of events, and many elderly people begin to experience sleeping difficulties. But, for all I know, this may start to affect us in our forties and fifties.

All of this kind of got me thinking about my personal schedule, and my individual dips (micro-sleep modes) and creativity/productivity heights during the day.

So, I was wondering if anyone else out there sees any areas in which they can better accommodate themselves? Are you in sync with your body's natural biorhythms?

What is your best personal tip for a good night's sleep?

One more question. Do any of you think that it is possible for society to do a functional turn-around, and operate in a different way? Or, are we too far gone?

What say you?

I think I'm ready for a nap!

Tamera Daun©

Michelle Obama is Jackie Kennedy? Or, Michelle?

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 16:20:00 +0000

Is anyone else watching the news, and following Obama's visit to Europe? I catch coverage clips now and then, and there is something that has me a little irritated. I'm sure reporters mean well, but I'm growing a little tired of them comparing Michelle Obama to Jackie Kennedy. Constantly.

Jackie was a beautiful First Lady, and she certainly brought style and charm to The White House. In other words, I understand that it is meant to be a positive comparison as people grow increasingly fond of Michelle Obama, but I'll be honest about my thought on that. I told my husband the other evening that Michelle is probably about ready to "puke" from hearing about it all of the time. Every little detail is compared. The way she dresses, what she does, the way she acts, the way she delivers her words and greetings. Everything.

Can Michelle Obama please be allowed to be "just" Michelle Obama? Michelle is a highly intelligent, well-educated, strong-willed and independent woman that knows what she stands for. She has clear values and preferences. She is who she is, and she likes the fashion style that she likes.

Basta.

Related posts:
Michelle Obama's Makeover. What a crock!

Pentad. Simplifying Your World.
Tamera Daun©

Confusing Needs

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Sat, 21 Mar 2009 18:52:00 +0000

This is a post that I've been meaning to write since ringing in 2009. It must be a symptom of wise old age, because just as soon as I remember to write it, I forget again. The book that motivated the initial thought has now been in plain sight on the coffee table for several days, so before I forget...

I thought the subject would serve the purpose of a friendly reminder to us all in meeting the new year. I'm sure it will spark various thoughts in each person reading, because we're all in different places at any given time, and rarely on the same page in our everyday lives. I thought the information was fun to look at, and quite interesting.

How many times do we think we know people so well that we assume to know what they like and prefer? How many times do we guess, instead of just asking? Not only that, but is it not naturally human to think about our own responses and conclusions while another person is speaking, instead of really listening? I think it's pretty normal, but I also think that we can help create more win-win situations if we put our egos aside, and really try to understand other people from their shoes. There are so many situations that end in win-lose and resentment, and lose-lose. In other words, nothing progresses.

Eegads, there are so many arenas in which we operate as mere mortal human-beings. We have relations that are more emotional and personal, and some that are less private. They all demand different approaches, so I guess the following information is just a point of awareness that may be helpful to remember.

This example is purely work-related. In other words, it is information based on what managers feel motivates their employees, and what employees say motivates them. The answers are kind of a wake-up call. Yet, there may be something important to remember here, no matter which arena we are in at any given point during a day.

The information is provided by Kurt W. Mortensen, and presented in simple point format (2008, p. 191). Keep in mind that working in different environments/political systems, and other circumstances such as economic crises, may change the order of these rankings.

The MAIN point is the obvious mismatch.

So, let's have a look!

What Motivates Employees as Ranked by Managers:

1. Compensation
2. Job Security
3. Growth and promotional opportunities
4. Good working conditions
5. Interesting work
6. Personal loyalty to employees
7. Tactful discipline
8. Appreciation of work done
9. Help with personal problems
10. Being well informed

What Motivates Employees as Ranked by Employees:

1. Interesting work
2. Appreciation of work done
3. Being well informed
4. Job Security
5. Compensation
6. Growth and promotion opportunities
7. Good working conditions
8. Personal loyalty to employees
9. Tactful discipline
10. Help with personal problems

Given the many variables that may influence rankings at any given time, is it not interesting that we may not know what we think we know about other people? I think it is.

Mortensen responds, "How much more effective could these managers be in motivating their team if they were really in touch with their employees? What we think others want and what they really want are usually two different things. Studies show that only one in ten people are recognized/motivated in ways that are meaningful to them" (2008, p.191).

Any thoughts about this, or experiences of feeling that your needs are/were misunderstood at work? What is/was it that you needed to feel more satisfied and really wish to give that little extra for a manager/employer?

Resource: Mortensen, K. (2008), Persuasion IQ. New York. AMACOM.

Tamera Daun©
Pentad. Simplifying Your World.

Top 'O the Mornin'!

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Tue, 17 Mar 2009 16:57:00 +0000

We tip our hats to the Irish today. To the descendants of those that took the perilous journey Westward long ago and contributed to our melting pot through hard labor, we join ye all in celebration. The "strife and struggle" is not forgotten.

May the luck of the Irish be with you today, and what is this day without a beautiful rendition of 'Danny Boy'? Enjoy!

Dedicated to: fond memories and grateful thanks to the O'Brien Family.

Dreaming of China

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Mon, 09 Mar 2009 05:45:00 +0000

See the lady in the picture? That is fellow Tai Chi student, Christine. This was taken while she tied a newly earned belt on her son. Oh, I hope she doesn't 'throw me' in class for borrowing her picture, because I didn't ask her permission. She has no idea that I am writing this post about her.

So, 'what's up?', you may ask. Well, we have a China Dream. A dream and goal to head to China this summer to compete in Tai Chi. Now, our school is not one of those sponsored professional athletic gigs. Nike and Coke haven't yet called, so a few travel costs need to be covered, however it is not impossible. Nothing is impossible.

I believe that we Moms should pursue a dream or two, and I think it's good for our kids to see us, 'go for it'!

Christine is a positive bundle of energy, and it is most difficult to convince her to sit down and relax! She gives her all, no matter what she decides to do, and this includes Tai Chi. She helps people out, and can make anyone smile within seconds. Christine is a single Mom, working outside of the home in addition to her own business. She makes natural products, and she knows her stuff!

Yeah, I know these 'economic times'. I also know that people still pick up a little 'gift' something for people they love. For Easter, Mother's Day, birthdays, and other important dates.

I am going to copy in a little text I found written by Christine about her products. She states it best, herself:

Indulge in delights from around the globe with a clean, green conscience. Sourcing Sustainable, Fair Trade, Naturally Grown, Wildcrafted and Organic raw materials is something A Little Ol’Factory works hard at doing so you don’t have to.

Our Focus: specialty natural materials and accessories for aromatherapy, making toiletries and general wellness (http://www.alittleolfactory.com/).

I make luxury natural soap, creams, incense, perfumes and other wonderful smelling things for a living. I use as many organic, wild grown, naturally grown, ethically harvested and fair trade produced raw materials as possible. In many cases I source them directly from the distillers, farmers and producers. I have customers in over 51 countries plus the United States, mostly acquired through a great reputation spread via word of mouth.

I’ve long been a supporter of corporate social responsibility, promoting a business culture driven by values and producing products governed by ethics.

My business A Little Ol'Factory (est. 1999), was one of the first women-owned, green, essential oils and body care businesses on the net. This entrepreneurial desire blossomed after working many years in the herbal and natural products industry. I decided to provide "a little olfactory" (I always like a good pun and good humor) bliss to folks interested in pure essential oils, and combine that with my love of making luxury natural toiletries and soap (Christine's profile).

So, if you are in need of a neat gift or would enjoy a little something for yourself, you can support a 'green entrepreneur', AND help Christine realize a dream, by visiting her site: A Little Ol'Factory. Natural Aromatics. Remember to mention it to friends and family that love natural products such as these. C'mon everyone. Give that little link a click, and at least take a look. You may want to remember it for future use.

P.S. To Christine: Nike is so going to regret they didn't call.

Pentad. Simplifying Your World.

Mental Decline and Long Working Hours

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Tue, 03 Mar 2009 19:27:00 +0000

This is hot off the press from Natural Standard magazine, so I am passing on the information. It is a tidbit about one more study completed on the cognitive effect of working long hours. This happens to be a topic of discussion in a few companies, and even among national administrations, although primarily socialistic admins.

Studies such as these are important, because findings may dispel inaccurate thinking regarding work and employee efficiency. This of course, has economic consequences for companies. In other words, is there a better and more optimal use of human resources? Findings lead us to ask the critical questions, "What do we mean by efficiency? How do we define it? Is working longer hours included in that definition, and what are the consequences/human costs? What are the truths, and how can they be applied to business policy"?

Each study brings us a little closer to a few truths, and further research is needed. Yet, while the search is on, we can at least try to take care of our well-being, cut down on working too much in our free time, and get quality sleep at night. Every little bit helps.

We need to do it for our highest best. First and foremost, for ourselves.

Take a look here;

In a recent study, working long hours was associated with decreased cognitive function in middle-aged adults.

The study examined 2,214 middle-aged British civil servants who were working full-time. The researchers performed various tests to measure the participants' cognitive function at the time of study enrollment (1997-1999) and again at follow up (2002-2004).

According to the authors, working more than 55 hours a week was linked with poorer mental skills, including impaired short-term memory and recall, compared to those who worked a standard 40 hours. Individuals who worked the most hours experienced the greatest decline in cognitive function.

These results were similar after adjusting for potential confounding factors, including age, gender, marital status, education, occupation, income, physical diseases, psychosocial factors, sleep disturbances and health-risk behaviors.

In addition, participants who worked overtime slept fewer hours, reported more symptoms of depression and drank more alcohol than those who worked just 40 hours.

The potential mechanism for these negative effects remains unknown. It is also unclear if the effects may be long-term. Additional research is warranted in this area.

Resources:

Natural Standard

Virtanen M, Singh-Manoux A, Ferrie JE, et al. Long working hours and cognitive function: the Whitehall II Study. Am J Epidemiol. 2009 Mar 1;169(5):596-605. Epub 2009 Jan 6. View Abstract

Pentad. Simplifying Your World.

President Obama! Can you add ducks to your stimulus package?

noreply@blogger.com (Tamera Daun) — Sun, 01 Mar 2009 21:00:00 +0000

Just say YES to ducks for sustainable agriculture!

As long as we take our kids down to the lake to feed the ducks, why not relocate a few of them, and let them further contribute to sustainable agriculture? How, you ask? They eat, weed, and poop. Sorry. I mean defecate. What about duck farmers, and lots of them?

Fancy the thought.

I know we don't deal in sustainable rice paddy agriculture, but Japan is loving their ducks, and we can too! Has anyone heard of the Aigamo method? It's nothing new, as the Furuno family developed the method over 10 years ago. It is now the craze of Southeast Asia, and is spreading like wildfire.

Take a look at this:

The Aigamo method is currently increasing the income of Third World famers from 20 to 50 percent. It might be called the "One Bird Revolution" since ducks are the key. Twenty ducklings released per tenth of a hectare eat insect pests, golden snails and weed seeds and save 240 hours per hectare of manual weeding. Ducks remain on the paddy twenty-four hours a day until the rice forms ears of grain. They are then removed from the fields.

Nitrogen-fixing Azolla fern and duckweed cover the water surface, feeding the ducks and providing cover for edible fish which feed on duck feces and organisms fertilized by the ducks. The only external input is a little waste grain fed the ducks.

The output is a nutritious harvest of organic rice, duck and fish. the productivity is remarkable- 1.4 hectares yields seven tons of rice, 300 ducks, 4,000 ducklings and an adjacent 0.6 hectare supplies organic vegetables for 100 people.

It was calculated that, by using the Aigamo method, no more than 2 percent of Japanese farmers were needed to feed the nation and make it self-sufficient (Wharton, 2001, p74).

Even though this method is based on rice paddies, ducks still execute the same functions, do they not? We can say 'yes' to organic farming where the land is optimally planned and utilized to get the most from the least amount of area, can we not? Could that not free up some of those agricultural fields to renewable energy sources and windmills?

President Obama! Would you consider ducks in your stimulus plan? We're going to need a heck of a lot of these "eater's-n-poop'ers".

Just say YES to ducks!

Wharton, C.H. (2001). Ten thousand years from eden. Athens, GA: WinMark Publishing.

Pentad. Simplifying Your World.