Thought I would through a little fun in for the day...
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Preconceived Notions About Life and - Snakes
How do you react react when you see a snake or some other reptile?
Many people are super frightened and want to kill any snake that they may see near their home.
We’re not born with any fears except the fear of falling and of loud noises. Other fears and phobias develop as a result of what others have shared with us as we’ve grown up.
We’re not born with any fears except the fear of falling and of loud noises. Other fears and phobias develop as a result of what others have shared with us as we’ve grown up.
That fear of reptiles develops from the conditioning from parents and others who have acquired the fear from their predecessors.
As a child I went to a day camp where one of the activities was going to the “snake pit” where we would sit around the edge and the handler would
pick up snakes for us to handle. I loved the little ring-necked snakes….about 8 – 10 inches long. Fun to hold. At the snake pit, I learned some of the characteristics of poisonous snakes – the flattened head, a small depression between the eyes and sometimes a “rattle” for a tail.
pick up snakes for us to handle. I loved the little ring-necked snakes….about 8 – 10 inches long. Fun to hold. At the snake pit, I learned some of the characteristics of poisonous snakes – the flattened head, a small depression between the eyes and sometimes a “rattle” for a tail.
My parents didn’t instill a huge fear in me…. I learned the value of snakes in controlling rodents. We lived on the edge of some woods though and seeing a snake in the shed where we kept gardening supplies was a little startling.
Another unforgettable experience was when our basset hound yelped from the other room when we were living in a very large older home. That large black snake definitely didn’t belong in my kitchen…. Quickly removed, safely from the house, with the help of a large shovel.
Recently I had the opportunity to attend an event at my grandsons’ school where “The Reptile Man” showed quite a variety of reptiles to the enthralled audience of children. HIs loving attitude toward his animals quickly spread to the children and they were all excited at any opportunity to go up with him to be part of handling the animals. He had a cute name for all of them…..like Sheila the Gila – monster. He was very clear about leaving snakes alone in the wild. They like to be left alone. And poisonous snakes are not to be reckoned with. He described in detail the effects of poisonous snake bites. He taught the difference between realistic caution and unfounded fears.
To see the throngs of children lining up to have their picture taken with either a small alligator or a huge snake was amazing! They knew these creatures were safe because of being raised in captivity. With careful education, they knew that they could be close to these animals. The generalization that all reptiles are scary was dropped by these kids for sure.
You may be wondering what this discussion has to do with your life.
What negative conditioning have you received that is affecting your mindset?
Are there things that you are not attempting because you have generalized your fears about trying something new or going to different places?
If you can just think rationally about opportunities rather than reacting quickly from your preconceived notions, you may very well find yourself getting beyond stuck and moving on to new experiences. Think back over the last few days or weeks. Where have you made quick decisions without getting beyond the old beliefs that may or may not be reality?
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The Corporate Athlete
The Corporate Athlete
Are you an athlete? No? How about a corporate athlete? Do you compete in the corporate world while sitting at your desk? Still no? You are an athlete! You have to understand, I see an athlete as someone that uses their body to compete. An athlete’s body must be a highly tuned, well functioning machine. Still, many corporate athletes have forgotten that they need their bodies to work as well as possible in order for them to perform at their highest level… even if they never leave their chair.
Many corporate athletes have bodies that are not working the way they should, even beginning to break down and leave them dealing with regular aches and pains as a part of their normal day. Why do our bodies break down? Typically, you can trace most of your body’s musculo-skeletal problems to imbalances, posture, and overuse.
Imbalances are easy to identify, if you know what you’re looking for. Take a look at the movements and activities you do during an average day you will see that you basically do the same things each day. Over and over again. Day in and day out. Not much variety, and not much balance. Balance would mean that you do many activities involving muscles of your front as well as your back. Good balance would also involve movements on the right and left sides of your body.
The computer user keeps their hands in front of them all day, head pushed forward and eyes glued to the screen. They keep this nearly identical posture as they drive into work, and when they drive home, before resuming this posture again at the dinner table and the couch. How many hours in a day are they imbalanced in a forward position? Eight? Ten? Sixteen? Is it any wonder that their muscles, ligaments, and tendons start to change shape?
Bad posture is also easily identified… usually on someone else. Have someone take a look at you while you work at your desk. Is your monitor up high enough or are you looking down at it by bending your neck? How’s your chair? Does it allow you to sit up straight? Are your shoulders hunched?
What about the position of your mouse, where you put the papers you are reviewing, how you hold your phone, the angle of your wrists… it can be a lot to look at! You want to make sure that your body can stay in as much of a good, well-balanced posture for as much of the day as possible. Having a friendly co-worker take a look at you and your body position can allow you to address potential issues before it’s too late. It only takes a minute, and you can return the favor by observing them at their workstation.
Overuse injuries come from doing any movement over and over again until the body part just plain wears out! These injuries can occur over a shorter period of time when imbalances and poor posture are also a part of that movement. Trauma is usually easy to identify when it involves falling down or a car accident. What about repetitive trauma, also called micro-trauma?
Micro-trauma is not so easily noticed until symptoms start to appear. The same movement or action that caused the injury becomes painful to do. That should be your red alert that you cannot keep doing that movement in the same way. Even treatment will only temporarily relieve the pain if you go back to doing the same thing the wrong way again every day.
The symptoms of your body breaking down are not always pain. Other warning signs can be there for years before pain shows up. Bad posture is already a warning sign that trouble is ahead. The typical shoulder slouching head forward posture is rampant in our society! You likely don’t have to leave your house to find someone living with this posture.
Bad posture leads to further imbalances and a speeding up of the overuse injuries. If you take a look at someone with this posture, you’ll notice that muscles in the front (like the chest muscles) start to become shorter, while the back muscles start to become longer. This is not just a visual change, but a physical change. Your muscles are actually becoming short in the front and long in the back, a serious imbalance.
Another symptom is a loss of range of motion, or a loss of the normal ability to move the spine or any other joint through all of their normal movements. Does your head turn painlessly right and left to the same degree? Can you move your head forward and back easily, or just forward? What about your low back or other joints like your wrists, elbows, and shoulders? Compare side to side and see if they are equal. Of course they could both need help, but this is a good starting point.
The good news is that most of these problems can be helped without surgery. Of course, every person is different and when they decide to do something about their problem is also very important. Wait too long and you may eliminate many conservative treatment options. Catch it early and make some changes to your workstation and you can avoid many painful lessons later.
For now, concentrate on your posture and evaluate your work station. Seek out activities that will allow some balance back into your movements, including weight workouts and stretching. If you are already experiencing pain, now is the time to do something about it. These problems rarely resolve themselves on their own. You must act by seeking the assistance of a qualified health professional.
Author Resource – Dr. Natalie Cordova is a posture exercise expert, chiropractor, and health educator. More information can be found at his website at http://www.postureconfidence.com
Clever Ways To Use Baskets As Home Décor
If you are looking to spruce up your home décor, baskets are
a handy and inexpensive way to add charm while giving your home extra storage
space. Here are a few simple ways to use your decorative baskets to their
fullest potential.
Mail basket—instead of tossing your unread mail on the
closest flat surface you can find, place a pretty basket on a table, countertop
or desk to hold the mail until you can get to it. This not only looks nicer,
but it keeps your mail all in one place so you don’t risk losing important bills
or correspondence.
Take out menu holder—Take out menus tend to pile up in
drawers, on shelves, and on top of the refrigerator, creating unsightly messes
and making it hard to find what you’re looking for. Purchase an oblong or
rectangle basket and place all your menus in it. The next time you’re in the
mood for takeout, you’ll know where to look.
Kitchen helpers—baskets are awesome additions to your
kitchen. Use them to hold your leftover condiment packets from fast food
purchases, or put small packets of sweeteners and creamers in one next to the
coffee pot. Place a tall sturdy basket within reach of the stove and fill it
with your most used utensils. Baskets also make pretty holders for napkins and
rolled silverware; choose one that fits your dinning room décor and leave it
right on the table. You will always have your tableware right within reach.
Magazine and book container—give each family member a
decorative basket to hold their magazines and books. The next time you come
home from the library with a stack of books, your family will have a place to
put their own materials. Baskets also work well as homeschooling curriculum
holders since the basket can be picked up and moved with your child.
Hobby container—a pretty picnic-type basket can hold your
yarn and needles out of sight until you are ready to get to work. Place it next
to your favorite chair or store the basket under an end table. If your kids
love to color or doodle while watching TV, store their supplies in a cute
kid-friendly basket to keep your living room neat and tidy.
Bathroom organizers—use baskets to keep hair brushes,
accessories and combs in one place. Nail the bottom of a basket to the wall
(with the open side facing out), and use it to store extra hand towels and
washcloths. If you have the room, use baskets to hold extra rolls of toilet
tissue.
Home entertainment holders—if you have trouble keeping track
of TV and gaming remotes, use baskets to keep them all in one spot. Place an
attractive basket on your coffee table and toss all the gadgets in it. You will
never have to look for a lost remote again.
The uses for baskets as home décor are endless. They not
only add charm and extra storage space to your home, but they’re inexpensive as
well, giving your home an elegant look on a budget.
Prepare A Grab And Go Emergency Pack
Having a specific pack stocked and ready to go in case of an
emergency or sudden evacuation is valuable advice. Peace of mind comes from knowing you have a
pack set up for each member of the household that you can 'grab and go' if the
times comes to make a hasty departure.
Here are some tips for things to remember when planning your own
family's emergency packs.
Who should have a
pack?
Each member of your household should have his/her own pack
with essentials, plus any specific items they need. Don't forget your pets, too.
What kind of pack
should you use?
A durable backpack is the best way to go. Backpacks are made
to distribute the weight evenly over the back and shoulders and allows the
hands to be free, making it a good choice for all ages. Also, considering you
may have to walk a distance, it's important to plan for this comfort. You'll
also find the various pockets are handy to separate and store specific items.
What should you pack?
- Water
FEMA recommends that each person have 1 gallon of drinking water per day. It’s important to be sure everyone stays properly hydrated. Dehydration can cause fatigue, confusion, low blood pressure, delirium, unconsciousness, and even death. One gallon of water is 128 ounces, which is about 6 to 8 store-bought bottles depending on the size of the bottles. If you are unable to carry that much water, plan ahead how you will obtain drinking water from clean sources. - Food
Pack nonperishable airtight packaged food. This can be in the form of granola, trail mix, snack and protein bars, beef jerky, nuts and seeds, dried fruit, peanut butter, or individually canned meat (such as tuna, sardines, salmon, and chicken.) Pack a manual can opener. Plan to pack enough food to last for several days. - Clothes
The most important thing to pack in the event of a disaster is plenty of clean socks, underwear, several thin layers of shirts, a windproof and/or waterproof jacket, and a hat. In a disaster situation you may have to walk for long distances, so, if your budget allows, pack an extra pair of good walking shoes. - Shelter
This item can include many things, but, at the very least, pack some sort of tarp and rope so you can string up a makeshift shelter if needed. If you have a small pop up tent, that is even better. Include one small roll of plastic sheeting in each person's pack to form a waterproof layer on the ground for sitting and sleeping just in case you do need to sleep outdoors.
What else should you pack?
Besides water, food, and shelter, there are essentials that
everyone should have access to when an emergency situation occurs. This is a short list of items that shouldn't be
forgotten:
·
Waterproof matches
·
Flashlight, extra batteries, or a hand crank
flashlight
·
Prescription medications and over the counter
medications
·
Rain poncho for each person
·
First aid kit
·
Copies of identification, or any other important
papers you may need, in a ziploc plastic bag or waterproof container. Also,
write out and laminate one card for each person with important information,
including address, phone, work address, school address, health information,
parents' names, kids' names, other family names and addresses, etc.
Space with be at a premium, so carefully pack all of your
items into each backpack. Clearly mark the packs with each household member’s
name and the date it was packed. As time
passes, the family's needs will change, so it’s a good idea to mark your
calendar to evaluate your packs routinely.
Some items, such as food and medication, will need to be checked and
rotated periodically. Even
identification information may change, such as schools, phone numbers, etc.
Designate a family meet-up place in
case of evacuation and store the packs in that location, if possible. In the event of an emergency evacuation, each
person can easily see which pack is theirs and will be able to grab it and go. Remember to practice your evacuation procedures
each time you update the packs. This
will keep this safety procedure fresh in everyone's minds. You may never need to put these packs to the
test, but isn't it better to know that they are ready if you do?
Getting to Know the Many Faces of Anxiety
The word 'anxiety' reaches far beyond what many people
would typically think. It’s common to feel anxious about something in life –
whether it is positive or negative. But there are many types of anxiety, and
many varying degrees.
Everyone has experienced some sort of anxiety in their
lifetime. That's part of being human. If you are experiencing anxiety, it helps
to identify the type of anxiety so you can find the proper treatment. Here is a
general discussion of what to look for if you think you may be experiencing
anxiety.
Generalized Anxiety Disorder
Commonly called GAD, this type of anxiety involves a sense
of things being out of proportion. You feel things are 'bigger' than they are.
Your worry is excessive and uncontrollable. Things that most people consider to
be a part of everyday living are much more drastic and overwhelming for someone
with GAD.
Panic Attacks
This type of anxiety typically comes on suddenly. The
panic attack may last for minutes or hours. A panic attack may be characterized
as periods of intense fear or apprehension. It may feel like a heart attack or
a nervous breakdown. There can be a feeling of being trapped and wanting to
escape. If panic attacks occur on a regular basis, they are then deemed to be a
symptom of a panic disorder.
Worry
When we rehash an unpleasant outcome of a particular
event, that is what we call worrying. It is based upon mental thoughts and
images about what might happen. This can be both real and imagined events.
Technically, a little amount of worry is common and even helpful. Worry becomes
a problem when it dominates our thoughts or prevents us from living a normal
life, including taking normal risks.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder
This type of anxiety became well known as a result of the
increased number of military personnel put in circumstances that cause
psychological trauma. An event that puts someone in harm’s way, and/or
traumatizes a person’s mental or emotional well-being, could impair the mind's
ability to cope with even normal situations. Think of the brain as being on
high-alert at all times. Typical symptoms include flashbacks, nightmares,
anger, depression, and sleep disorders.
Social Anxiety / Social Phobia
Socializing may be fun for most, but for someone with
social anxiety or a social phobia, the thought of being with others in
terrifying. A heightened sense of worry about what others will think of them
results in fear and low self-esteem. This type of anxiety is a downward spiral
– isolation creates low self-esteem and doubt, and low self-esteem and doubt
creates isolation, and on and on.
Depression
This is probably one of the most misunderstood part of
anxiety. Depression is not something we typically see as being anxiety-related.
Seen often as simply a period of time when we feel “in the dumps,” depression
is in fact a time when our mind and body have suppressed feelings and emotions.
It is what happens during these times that can cause our anxiety to rise.
During times of depression, we can have negative thoughts and feel fear toward
things that may not have bothered us before. When these thoughts and fears
start to escalate, our anxiety begins to climb.
Hypochondria
With this type of anxiety, a person has only one focus:
their health. The slightest physical symptom can manifest itself in the
hypochondriac’s mind to be a major concern. A small bump on the leg can be no
less than a cancerous tumor. Blurred vision is nothing short of total blindness.
This type of anxiety, left untreated, can consume a person’s life to the point
of disability, even to the extent of becoming a self-fulfilled prophecy.
As you can see, there is a vast array of anxieties. If you
think you or someone you know fits one or more of these categories, be sure to
consult your physician. Getting professional help is the first step to
recovery.
Top 6 Questions To Ask Yourself Before Surgery Abroad
Surgery is a big step. Getting on a plane and flying 16
hours to the other side of the planet for surgery is a really big step. Are you
ready? Ask yourself…
1. Can
I afford this?
Chances are if you are having
surgery overseas than you are getting it at a great discount. Most Americans
pay up to 80% more for medical procedures due to the high cost of malpractice
insurance. Furthermore, the cost of health insurance is increasing while its
overage, deductibles and co-pays are decreasing. Keep in mind that medical
tourism involves paying cash out-of-pocket, usually a percentage up front, when
an appointment is scheduled and the remainder shortly before surgery.
2. Is
this healthy?
Medical procedures overseas often
involve either procedures or medicines that have not yet been approved by the
F.D.A. Research well online and make educated decisions about your care. Just
because something is not yet acceptable in the United States does not mean that
it is in any way an inferior product. In fact, the Food & Drug
Administration is notoriously slow to approve things.
3. Am
I having this surgery for me?
Cosmetic surgeries and dental
procedures beg the question, “Are you having this procedure to make yourself
happy?” You should never alter your physical appearance to please someone else.
If you are self-conscious about your teeth or really want to get rid of some
excess fat around your mid-section then, by all means, jump on the medical
tourism bandwagon.
4. Is
this a safe procedure?
Online research is really an amazing
tool when you need answers to your questions. Learn as much as you can about
your procedure, the risks and the rewards. Investigate your hospital, doctor
and post-operative care center. Ask your medical tourism travel agency if they
have any additional materials to give you to increase your understanding. Chances are you are not the first person to
ask these questions and they are prepared.
5. Am
I comfortable with the risks?
There are inherent risks with any
surgery. In fact, even American hospitals make you sign a waiver that you know
there are risks. Medical tourism has added factors involved. Make sure you know
all the risks and are comfortable with them.
6. Will
I be happy with the results?
You should know, in advance, that
no plastic surgeon can make you look like J Lo or Britney Spears. No cosmetic
dentistry specialist can give you Julia Roberts smile. Be honest with yourself
and your doctor or dentist about the results you expect before moving forward.
If you are still happy with your answer, then go buy your plane ticket.
Effective Steps for Managing Anxiety
Have you ever been in a situation that brought on sweats, rapid heartbeat and shortness of breath? You probably weren’t having a heart attack but an anxiety attack. If you suffer from anxiety disorders, learning to manage it is the first step to overcoming it.
Anxiety is characterized as extreme reactions to fearful situations. When someone follows you into a dark alley, those anxious feelings of a racing heartbeat and sweaty palms gives way to heightened senses and a rush of adrenalin that can save your life. This is the fight or flight syndrome.
In the case of frequent anxiety, the fearful feelings are dread of a particular situation and not the situation itself. Getting caught in traffic can cause an anxiety attack over what might happen when you get to work late. Starting a new job can bring on anxiety attacks. You don’t know anyone and fear of that unknown can send you into a panic.
Everyone experiences panic or anxiety in small ways. Like the fight or flight example, it can save your life. In new situations, we get panicky but when the outcome we fear fails to materialize, the anxiety stops. For someone with chronic anxiety, this is not the case.
Every situation that brings anxiety is not life-threatening. More than likely it is an extremely stressful situation that has brought on the anxiety as a way of dealing with it. Unchecked anxiety of this type can lead to depression.
If you suffer from anxiety attacks on occasion or a more frequent anxiety disorder, there are steps you can take to keep your anxiety under control.
1. See a professional. This is always a good first step. Self-diagnosis of any type of physical or mental condition is unwise and can be dangerous. A professional psychologist can help you understand your anxiety and prescribe medication or other effective techniques.
2. Get a good night’s sleep. During the sleep cycle, your body repairs itself. You feel more rested after several hours of restorative sleep, reaching the REM stage. Most people need eight hours a night which varies within an hour or two each way.
3. Exercise on a consistent basis. Exercise helps you to use oxygen more efficiently. It helps to get more oxygen to the brain. It also increases focus which may help you see solutions to problems rather than simply worrying about them.
4. Meditate. Meditation is more than chanting mantras. Yoga is an exercise that involves quieting the mind and controlling your breathing. Simple mediation such as taking 5 minutes to clear your mind everyday can work wonders in the fight against anxiety.
5. Manage the worry. When you feel your pulse start to quicken, count backwards from ten. As you count, focus on the situation. What has actually happened? Resist the urge to read anything more into the situation.
6. Don’t use alcohol. You might think that the glass of wine is relaxing your tension but alcohol is a depressant. In anxious situations you could rely too heavily on it and gain another problem in the process.
7. Find some relaxing activities. Stress can rob you of your energy. On a regular basis, do something you like such as gardening, painting, reading or listening to music.
Anxiety can come into your life at any time. It’s normal. When the anxiety becomes frequent you could be at risk for more serious conditions. If you feel your anxiety is starting to take over your life or increasingly causing you problems, seek professional help immediately. There is no need to suffer this terrible condition in silence.
Anxiety is characterized as extreme reactions to fearful situations. When someone follows you into a dark alley, those anxious feelings of a racing heartbeat and sweaty palms gives way to heightened senses and a rush of adrenalin that can save your life. This is the fight or flight syndrome.
In the case of frequent anxiety, the fearful feelings are dread of a particular situation and not the situation itself. Getting caught in traffic can cause an anxiety attack over what might happen when you get to work late. Starting a new job can bring on anxiety attacks. You don’t know anyone and fear of that unknown can send you into a panic.
Everyone experiences panic or anxiety in small ways. Like the fight or flight example, it can save your life. In new situations, we get panicky but when the outcome we fear fails to materialize, the anxiety stops. For someone with chronic anxiety, this is not the case.
Every situation that brings anxiety is not life-threatening. More than likely it is an extremely stressful situation that has brought on the anxiety as a way of dealing with it. Unchecked anxiety of this type can lead to depression.
If you suffer from anxiety attacks on occasion or a more frequent anxiety disorder, there are steps you can take to keep your anxiety under control.
1. See a professional. This is always a good first step. Self-diagnosis of any type of physical or mental condition is unwise and can be dangerous. A professional psychologist can help you understand your anxiety and prescribe medication or other effective techniques.
2. Get a good night’s sleep. During the sleep cycle, your body repairs itself. You feel more rested after several hours of restorative sleep, reaching the REM stage. Most people need eight hours a night which varies within an hour or two each way.
3. Exercise on a consistent basis. Exercise helps you to use oxygen more efficiently. It helps to get more oxygen to the brain. It also increases focus which may help you see solutions to problems rather than simply worrying about them.
4. Meditate. Meditation is more than chanting mantras. Yoga is an exercise that involves quieting the mind and controlling your breathing. Simple mediation such as taking 5 minutes to clear your mind everyday can work wonders in the fight against anxiety.
5. Manage the worry. When you feel your pulse start to quicken, count backwards from ten. As you count, focus on the situation. What has actually happened? Resist the urge to read anything more into the situation.
6. Don’t use alcohol. You might think that the glass of wine is relaxing your tension but alcohol is a depressant. In anxious situations you could rely too heavily on it and gain another problem in the process.
7. Find some relaxing activities. Stress can rob you of your energy. On a regular basis, do something you like such as gardening, painting, reading or listening to music.
Anxiety can come into your life at any time. It’s normal. When the anxiety becomes frequent you could be at risk for more serious conditions. If you feel your anxiety is starting to take over your life or increasingly causing you problems, seek professional help immediately. There is no need to suffer this terrible condition in silence.
The Mommy Makeover: What Is It And Where Do I Get One?
Every woman has concerns about their appearance after
pregnancy. Will I lose the weight? Will my stomach every return to normal? Will
my breasts ever be the same again? It is the price women pay for having
children. The babies are worth it but the strain on our bodies is severe. In
fact, the older a woman is at childbirth, the harder it can be for her body to
bounce back after a pregnancy, up to 18 months by some accounts. If it is a
repeat pregnancy or, worse, a back-to-back pregnancy the recovery can drag for
years. Whether from natural childbirth or a c-section, the stomach can appear
distended or loose skin can hang while breast-feeding can cause the breasts to
sag and lose their natural shape.
Enter the mommy makeover. This may sound like a simple
afternoon that includes lunch with friends, a haircut and some fresh makeup but
it is much more involved than that. A mommy makeover is actually a
three-pronged surgical attack. Plastic surgeons perform a breast lift
(mastopexy) to revive sagging breast and return them to their upright position
and, occasionally, include an augmentation to replace any loss in breast tissue
from years of breast-feeding.
Next, doctors perform a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), which
is a procedure that removes excess fat and skin left behind from pregnancy.
Sometimes, no matter how hard you exercise and how many situps you do, nothing
will make that pouch disappear. Surgeons can hide the incision in existing
c-section scars or just above the pubic hairline so that it is not noticeable
to the casual observer at the pool. And, last but not least, moms undergo
selective liposuction to clean up any last bits of baby weight. Sometimes this
is called body-sculpting.
A mommy makeover can be done at any local hospital but the
issue is recovery. In fact, it can be very difficult for moms to have adequate
recovery time when there are small children in the house. Many moms will find
it hard to resist the urge to pick up a toddler, run a vacuum or do a load of
laundry, which is the main reason many are turning to medial tourism for a
mommy makeover.
Cosmetic surgery in places like Brazil and Thailand is a
combination of top-notch care and rock bottom prices. The airfare, resort stay
and medical procedure can oftentimes total less than half of the cost from a
U.S. physician. In fact, many mommies are banding together for the ultimate girl’s
weekend and traveling to exotic locales to have these post-childbirth makeovers
together. Recovering in a posh resort with a good book, lots of naps and close
friends sure beats dirty diapers and spaghettios.
OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY
This came to my attention today, I think it is very good and want to share it with my readers.
OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY MADE THIS AND IT JUST CAME OUT 4 DAYS AGO AND HAS HAD 6 MILLION HITS.
Thank you Oklahoma.I hope 100 million watch this!Oklahoma State University is located at Stillwater, Oklahoma. This is without a doubt the best video that has come out and apparently 6 Million others think so too because there have been 6 million hits in 4 days. Please watch it again and again and send it on to others. I believe the pendulum has started to swing so let's keep it going.*This is very well done.*OUR THANKS GOES OUT TO THE GREAT OKLAHOMA STATE UNIVERSITY FOR THIS OUTSTANDING JOB.
4 Benefits of Medical Tourism
Medical tourism is a rising trend that involves traveling to
foreign countries for medical care. But why would someone travel up to 16 hours
by plane for surgery that they could get down the street at the local hospital?
1. Less
expensive: That’s actually an understatement. Depending on where you go and
what procedure you are interested in, you can save 50 to 80% of the cost of the
same procedure in the United States. Health insurance is expensive for both
companies and their employees and, half the time; it doesn’t cover many medical
procedures. Or, worse, requires such a large deductible or co-pay, that the
procedure is financially out-of-reach. For cosmetic surgeries, this hardly
seems like something to empathize with but what about cardiac patients or
infertile couples trying to start a family?
2. Private:
Sometimes people wish to keep their medical procedures private. Having surgery
while under the guise of vacationing abroad is one way to maintain this
privacy. Friends and family may notice that a smile looks brighter or that one
has a healthier appearance but it will be hard to pinpoint the change. This is
especially true with cosmetic and dental procedures. Sometimes dental implants
and veneers can be a two day process; traveling back and forth to work, home
and the dental office can raise a lot of well-meaning questions.
3. More
Choices: The F.D.A. is a good intentioned organization, looking after the
well-being of Americans but, more often than not, they are extremely slow to
approve new procedures and medicines. In fact, people in other parts of the
world frequently receive new, breakthrough medicine and surgeries before those
of us in the United States. And, while it doesn’t always hurt to wait, cancer,
Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s wait for no one.
4. Vacation:
Second only to saving money, getting to take the trip of a lifetime to some
exotic, foreign locale is a great added benefit of medical tourism. In fact,
you could choose a country based on its medical specialty or on the tourist
attractions that it has to offer. You could see the Taj Mahal right before your
scheduled face lift, ride a zip line through the jungle before checking into a
hospital in Costa Rica or relax in a tent while on Safari in South Africa.
This, rather humorously, is nicknamed a Scalpel Safari. In fact, your need for
medical attention may be as good of an excuse as any to cross a few sites of
your bucket list and schedule a dream vacation.
The above four reasons make it a
little easier to understand why over 500,000 people travel overseas each year
for surgery. They save money and have fun. Shouldn’t you?
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JUNE 18, 2011 BY LEAVE A COMMENT
5 Potential Problems With Traveling Abroad for Surgery
So, you are considering medical tourism as an option. Here
are 5 issues you should consider before booking that flight.
1. Insurance:
Most U.S. health insurance companies only cover procedures done in the
patient’s home network coverage area. They generally do not cover procedures
performed in foreign countries, which means that the trip and the procedure are
out-of-pocket expenses. The continual
increase in medical tourism, however, is forcing some insurance companies to
change their stance. One U.S. insurer is offering to waive a $3,000 deductible
for very expensive, hip surgeries, if the surgery is done overseas. In fact,
insurance companies will probably jump on the medical tourism bus within the
next decade or so, if they can see a way to save their money on your care.
2. Malpractice
Laws: Be advised that the main reason medical procedures are so inexpensive
overseas is partially due to the lack of medical malpractice insurance. Doctors
and hospitals pass those savings on to you. The lack of coverage does not mean
they are necessarily doing anything wrong. Quite the contrary. It just means
that the laws governing malpractice in foreign countries are very different
than those in America. Translation: You have no recourse to sue.
3. Recovery
Issues: Medical professionals in the United States have expressed concern that
patients will be rushed through recovery and forced back onto a plane. This is
unlikely but make sure you schedule enough vacation time to be able to recovery
completely. It is also important to note that doctors always recommend keeping
scars out of direct sunlight for the first 12 months after surgery. It helps
the healing process and to minimize the discoloration. So, do not plan on
spending your recovery in a lawn chair at the pool.
4. Traveling
Home: When you are fully recovered, another concern arises with long,
international flights and the risk of blood clots. Discuss any concerns you
have with your doctor but it is always a good idea, post-op or otherwise, to
get up and walk around every hour on long flights to maintain proper blood
flow. You could also spend some of the money you saved on upgrading to pricey
first-class seats. Airline seats are notoriously cramped but first-class can
offer considerable more legroom.
5. Follow
Up Care: Under normal circumstances, a patient schedules several check-ups with
their doctor after surgery, sometimes as far out as 12 months post-operative.
This can be difficult when the surgeon is in Phuket and you are in
Punxsutawney. Be sure to ask your primary care physician if they can perform
follow-up care or inquire with your medial travel agency on their standard
protocol.
The advantages to medical tourism are very real but so are
the risks. Be sure you weigh out the pros and cons before making your decision
to go ahead with surgery. If you feel the advantages are greater than the risks
then it's time to pick your location and book your flight.
Medical Tourism: Say What?
If you have never heard of medical tourism, you are not
alone. Technically, the term means traveling across any international border
for a medical procedure. This could mean a doctor’s check-up and prescription
re-fill in Mexico, a special fertility procedure for a hopeful couple in
Singapore or, the ultimate girl’s night out, “mommy makeovers” in Thailand.
Procedures that used to be done at home are now being performed by medical
professionals in foreign countries, often third world countries, for a greatly
reduced price.
History of Medial Tourism
People have been traveling abroad for centuries, from
pilgrimages to shrines or other holy places in hopes of miraculous healing to
traveling to spas or sanitariums in order to bathe in the healing waters. In
fact, at the turn of the century, it was the standard treatment for
tuberculosis patients to travel to Arizona in hopes that the dry heat would
heal them. Modern medical tourism saw an upswing in the 1980’s and 1990’s when
health care costs started to spiral out of control. At that time, it was often
called “tooth tourism” because many travelers went in search of discount dental
procedures. The concept has spread to
virtually every area of medicine.
Is the United States really the best?
Many Americans are working under the assumption that the
United States offers the best health care. Unfortunately, that is just no
longer a true statement. The most expensive, yes. The best, no. In fact,
according to the World Health Organization, the United States is #37 on the
list. Countries like Chile, Singapore, Columbia and Costa Rica all rank higher
than the United States and Slovenia (#38) and Cuba (#39) are giving the States
a run for their money as well. It really is a global economy. Many countries
specifically go after that niche tourist dollar for their economy and openly
market their country’s services. In fact, many foreign facilities have English
speaking doctors, trained in the United States and working at hospitals
accredited by U.S. accrediting agencies. All of this is done to appeal to
foreign patients and, as odd as it is to say, gain their business.
So, How Does It Work?
Most people either do their own research or contact a
company that specializes in medical tourism. Generally, they plan a vacation in
the country of their choice with a friend or relative and then have the
surgery. They also enjoy a luxurious post-operative recovery, often in a resort
type of setting. The entire vacation combined with the surgery and the
post-operative care can be purchased for a fraction of the cost in a foreign
country.
Medical tourism can save a patient literally tens of
thousands of dollars without skimping on the quality of care, as long as you
are smart about where you choose to go. With that kind of savings and service
it is no wonder that over 500,000 Americans are going under the knife overseas
every year.
The 6 Most Popular Medical Procedures to Have Overseas
Americans are increasingly traveling abroad for major
surgeries. In fact, over 500,000 combine an exotic vacation with a surgical
procedure each year. If you assume that they must be traveling for something
illegal in the United States or to have cosmetic surgery in secret, you’d be
wrong. Medial tourism is popular for a variety of reasons and that popularity
is increasing every day. So, what do people have done?
1. Bariatric
procedures: This type of surgery is
popular for privacy and cost issues but many foreign countries also have a
slightly different type of gastric bypass than what is currently available in
the U.S. The results can be better with this variation.
2. Fertility: Couples that struggle with
fertility not only have an emotional strain but also a financial one. The cost
of an IVF procedure is over $12,000 per attempt and it is well-known that many
procedures may be necessary to get the desired results. This can quickly drain
a bank account. On the other hand, an exotic trip to Argentina can include a
quick tango and an IVF for just $4,000.
3. Cosmetic
Surgery: A perennial favorite, many countries from Canada to Thailand offer
first-rate plastic surgeons at rock bottom prices. From tummy tucks to face
lifts, you can look better for less with medical tourism.
4. Dentistry:
Most people wouldn’t think of traveling anywhere but to the corner dentist to
have some dental work done but many procedures, especially dental implants and
veneers, are expensive at home. In fact, many insurance companies will not even
cover cosmetic procedures. If you want a pretty smile, a trip overseas may be
just the ticket. In fact, the price tag will have you grinning from ear to ear
all the way home.
5. Stem
Cell Research: Controversial in the United States, stem cell research is moving
forward rapidly in other parts of the world. In fact, Singapore has a
state-of-the-art research center and many people suffering from diseases like
Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s have traveled there for advanced help.
6. Cardiac:
Let’s face it, you only have one heart. You have to take care of it, yes, but
what do you do if that means you financially bankrupt your family in the
process? It sounds pretty awful to say that you cannot afford to live. A better
answer would be to travel to places like India, where the same procedures can
be done for up to 90% off. See the country, fix your heart and move on with
your life. Save your money.
7. Cancer
Treatment: It is no longer just the rich
and famous that travel abroad for the latest cancer treatments. The
affordability of international travel combined with the oppressive cost of
treatment here in the United States make traveling overseas for treatment a
viable option, if not a necessity.
You see there is a large variety of options for medical
tourism and it's not just for those who are elite or extravagant. Medical
tourism is one of the best ways to get what you need done when you can't afford
it or just save you from spending everything you do have to keep your health.
Always do your research and take responsibility for your own health, you'll
find the options are not quite as limited as you may have originally thought.
Top 7 Countries For Medical Tourism
Many Americans somehow think that their medical services,
hospitals and doctors are far superior to that of other countries, especially
third world countries. That statement couldn’t be farther from the truth. In
fact, many foreign countries are known for being tops in their particular
specialty. The World Health Organization recently ranked the quality of health
care in over 191 countries and the United States ranked 37th. Shocked? Don’t be. Many
Asian and South American countries began to specialize in certain fields to
draw tourists and boost the local economy.
Here’s a list of some of the top unexpected countries and what they specialize
in.
1. South
Korea: Specializing in spinal surgeries and cancer research, South Korea has
long been a leader in medical tourism to Asia.
2. Singapore:
This little Asian country is a power house in medical tourism. Ranking #1 in
Asia and #6 overall on the WHO list, Singapore is the go to place for stem cell
therapy. They have liberal laws on stem cell research and a new multi-billion
dollar research facility, the likes of which is not even available in the
United States.
3. Mexico:
While not popular with actual surgeries, many people in the southwestern part
of the United States travel across the border to Mexico for medical care. The
uninsured and the under-insured in the United States find it much easier to pay
the lower prices in Mexico for doctor’s visits and prescriptions than the
inflated U.S. prices. It is all about
value when traveling to Mexico and you definitely can get more for your
American dollar.
4. India:
Movies like Slum Dog Millionaire do not paint India in the best light but the
country has seen a 30% increase in patients in recent years. Specializing in
expensive cardiac and orthopedic surgeries, the savings in India can be
tremendous. In fact, a bypass in the States could run upwards of $80,000 but,
in India, that same operation could cost just $8,000 – a savings of 90%.
5. Turkey:
The JCI (Joint Commission International) is the hospital accrediting body in
the United States. Basically, they know which hospitals are the good ones.
Turkey actually has the most JCI accredited facilities outside of the United
States and specializes in eye surgeries.
6. Hungary: Ironically, Hungary is known for dental work.
Surely, there is a bad joke in there somewhere but the country has more
dentists per capita than anywhere in the world. Dental procedures like
implants, veneers and oral surgeries are popular and are offered at just 25% of
the cost that an American dentist would charge.
7. Brazil:
It only goes to reason that the country that gave us the Brazilian bikini and
the corresponding Brazilian bikini wax, would be tops in cosmetic surgeries. In
fact, Brazil has more plastic surgeons per capita than any country in the
world.
When you need medical care it may pay to shop around (the
world). Obviously you must proceed with great caution, do your research and
always double-check before traveling for any serious procedure.
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