Home workout

I was too sleepy this morning to get up super early and workout. So I slept in a little later and planned my workout for after work.

I worked out at home in my workout room. I love the workout room in my new house because of the nice hardwood floors. It's kinda like the aerobic class room at the gym.

I also choose this room for working out because of the french doors and all the natural light. It's very bright and airy in this room, perfect for working out.

Dinner was simple and delicious. I re heated some turkey chili from Saturday's family get together. I paired it with a fantastic salad and baked blue corn chips, along with some lime Food should taste good chips.

In the salad mix was mixed greens, spinach, dried cranberries, hummus, and Organic valley reduced fat white cheddar cheese.

Understanding Psychosis

By  Sara Coffey, D.O.



Often patients and family members have a hard time understanding how a person can be psychotic.  Psychosis is defined as grossly impaired reality testing. Psychosis can be present in several mental illnesses including, schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder and even depression.

The stigma or lack of information surrounding these disorders leaves them feeling guilty or ashamed. I often explain to them that the brain is an organ just like the heart, the kidneys or the liver. And just as our heart, kidneys or liver can become diseased, so can our brain.

The brain is a complicated organ with several different functions. It helps regulate our breathing, our heart rate, and our temperature and handles more complex tasks such as vision and hearing, pain sensations as well as processing complex thoughts or emotions. It is easy for us to understand that if the heart becomes damaged it might not pump as effectively, but it is often harder for us to understand what happens if the brain becomes compromised or unwell. A brain with mental illness may start to hear things that are not there, or experience thoughts that cannot be explained and seem irrational.  A person may become excessively anxious for no reason, or depressed without warning or cause.

In the world of mental illness we use terms to describe such experiences like hallucinations and delusions.  A patient with hallucinations might experience voices talking to them when no one is present. When we recall that one function of the brain is to process and interpret sound it is easy to see how auditory hallucinations might occur if that part of the brain is compromised.

Patients can have delusions that people are out to harm them for no reason, and without proof, or delusions that they are famous powerful figures in history. And again, when we look at how the mind works, how complex processes are taking place that help us navigate who we are and what we do, it makes sense that if something wasn’t working normally in the brain that a person could have a belief that was false.

Although these symptoms might make sense when we look at the brain as an organ, or a tool performing a function, it doesn’t lessen the impact mental illness has on families. Often mental illness takes away what we consider the heart or personality of person and this can be extremely difficult to cope with. Furthermore, the simplicity of understanding is not without criticism. For instance although we are learning more and more about the brain every day, there is still no cure for mental illness, only treatment for symptoms, and often times the treatment cannot fully clear the symptoms of certain diseases.

However, it is important to know that psychosis, like other mental illness symptoms, is not the fault of the person with the illness or the family who cares for them. These symptoms are part of a complex illness that affects patients unwillingly every day.

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Journey part 2

Sometimes in life's journey's there are bad times and good times. When those bad times comes they are supposed to make you stronger and help you to grow from them. That’s easier said then done sometimes. When in those situations it's hard to look past that and find something good. It takes a lot of internal strength to move forward in life. When I found myself at that point in my life I often wondered how I could move past it. I had to dig deep within myself, as well as look for support from those around me. As my best friends kept telling me, things can only go up, there's no other direction to go, and that time would change everything.

After some time I did make it to that other side and life is once again amazing. I'm stronger then ever and I know exactly what I want from life. I have learned where I went wrong and how to change those behaviors and patterns. I am so happy where things have taken me and for those people in my life. I'm looking forward to the future and everything that it may bring.

One Lesson learned in my journey is people are right, things can only get better and time changes everything.

Need help from my readers

As I have mentioned earlier this week and as you have probably seen, I have been having trouble with my pics.  I believe it might be linked to my new network connection.  Last night I installed a new modem and router.  I think the problem is fixed because I see the pics on my site that I posted today.  If you do not see the pics or even if you do could you help me out and leave a comment.  I am trying to solve this problem asap so we can get back to having fun, and so I can stop sitting on my computer for endless hours trying to fix this.

Thank You for all your help, it would be greatly appreciated.

Friday pancakes

I know I have said this before but I just love pancakes. I love all the different ways to make them and all the delicious toppings.

In the batter:
1/4 cup Bob's apple cinnamon hot cereal
1 TB. oat bran
3 egg whites
2 TB. pear sauce
1/4 tsp. baking soda
dash salt

Topped with
1/4 pear slices, all natural pb, Natures path pumpkin flax granola, cinnamon, and raw white honey.

Workout
I have plans to stop in at the gym for some full body resistance training. Then I'll come home shower and hit the sidewalk to explore the neighborhood. There's a lot of shops, restaurants, pubs, coffee shops, and antique stores within a few blocks. So I'm planning on checking out what's around this afternoon.

Help

I seem to be having technical difficulties with posting pictures. My firewall or network is not liking my pictures.  I hope to have this resolved as soon as possible.  Please stand by.  Gotta love moving and setting up electronics. 

Raising Awareness About Stuttering and Speech Disorders

By Adair Parr, M.D.



The Oscar nominations were recently announced and one particular movie in the best picture category is a film which addresses a common problem: stuttering. The King’s Speech depicts the courageous efforts of King George VI of Britain, played by actor Colin Firth, to overcome a stutter which first began when he was a young boy. Although many films have featured characters who stutter, this is the first film to focus on the process of someone overcoming speech difficulties.



The King’s Speech highlights the speech therapy that the king went through to overcome his stutter. The movie aptly demonstrates his frustration with prior attempts at speech therapy. His work with Australian speech therapist Lionel Logue, portrayed by actor Geoffrey Rush in the film, allowed him to move beyond the previous failures that he had in speech therapy and to achieve success. The story is particularly inspiring as you watch this man deliver a powerful speech to the British people on the brink of World War II. Hopefully, the movie will result in less stigma about stuttering.



Here is a video of His Majesty King George delivering his actual speech on Sept. 3rd, 1939.

Stuttering is a type of speech disorder which affects the fluency of speech. Stuttering is a fairly common phenomenon. Approximately 1 percent of children stutter, and up to 5 percent may display transient stuttering. Stuttering begins during childhood, typically between ages 2 and 4 and may last throughout life. It may involve repetitions of words, prolongation of speech sounds and blocked sound.

What should you do if your child has a stutter or other speech disorder? It is recommended that you seek an evaluation from a certified speech-language pathologist. Your pediatrician, physician or school system may help you find local resources. More information on stuttering is available at the American Speech-Language Hearing Association website.

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I'm back

Welcome home.
I'm so happy to be all moved in and setup. I just love my new house, I can't wait to enjoy it and the wonderful neighborhood.

I found the perfect spot to display my vintage Pyrex dishes. I love these dishes and this is one of my favorite pieces in the house. It's an older home with lots of character so my collection fits perfectly.

This mornings breakfast featured this vegan coconut macaroon that I picked up at the health food store yesterday.

I of course had to have some celebratory pancakes this morning. Oat bran cakes topped with dark chocolate chips, almond butter, sliced banana, and a little piece of the coconut macaroon. It was delicious and a perfect way to start my new life.

When Divorce Happens

By Gariane Gunter, M.D. 



A recent study was published in Health Day that discusses the mental health of children of divorced parents. While I am not in the position to support or deny the findings, the topic of divorce when children are involved is often a difficult one. Every family is different, but the following are some general tips for divorcing parents that can be helpful.



1. Attempt to keep a positive attitude during the point of separation. This is often a very trying time for the family. Stick to a routine and embrace the activities your children have always enjoyed.

2. Don’t forget to nurture yourself. Going for a walk, having coffee with a friend, or reading a good book are ways to rest and regain energy. It’s normal to feel exhausted when separating; and possibly for many months to follow.

3. Encourage kids to openly discuss their feelings, positive or negative, about what's happening.

It's important for divorcing, as well as already divorced parents, to sit down with their kids and encourage them to say what they're thinking and feeling. But you'll need to keep this separate from your own feelings. Most often, children experience a sense of loss of family and may blame you, the other parent, or both of you for what is going on in their lives. You really need to be prepared to answer questions your kids might raise. They might feel guilty and imagine that they "caused" the problem. Kids and teenagers may feel angry or frightened, or worried about their future. Counselors can assist with this difficult conversation and provide a safe environment if safety is a concern.

4. Although very tempting, try not to speak negatively about your former spouse when your children are present. This issue, often called “parental alienation” can be a problem. Doing things such as putting your child in the middle, saying negative things about the other parent, and using your child as a messenger puts your child in a “no win” situation and creates lifelong relationship issues for all involved. The reasons include the following:



• The comments may confuse and frighten children.

• Many of your concerns about your former spouse are difficult for you to express. It is very important that you keep these concerns to yourself. Children just do not have the emotional maturity to withstand information/situations that adults find stressful.

• Your child’s identity and self concept is based on parental behavior. Even if it is next to impossible to say anything good about your former spouse, try to do so. If this is impossible then don’t say anything.

• Children love to eavesdrop. Telephone conversations are their favorite snooping ground. Make all effort to not discuss your divorce-related difficulties on the telephone when your children are around.

5. During the crisis point of separation try to remember that your children need you both parents more than ever. This is not a time to deny access unless a professional deems it necessary to do so for safety related reasons.

6. It is important to accept the fact that a separation involves feelings of loss for children. Try not to panic if the following behaviors occur during the first few months of separation:

• Sleep difficulties like disrupted sleep, an inability to sleep, exhaustion etc.

• Social isolation

• Anger, intolerance, grumpiness

• Avoidance of divorce related conversations

• Obsessing about the divorce

• Appetite changes

• Feelings of worthlessness

• Tears and feelings of overwhelming sadness

7. Although many children do not ask to see a counselor when their parents separate, they usually find counseling very helpful.

8. It is important to acknowledge that children are very loyal and protective of their parents. If children are placed in loyalty binds they can experience anxiety. Try to alleviate their anxiety if they decided to “pick a side.” This is a coping skill which teens in particular use. If your child engages in “picking a side” try not to feel rejected.



9. Think of yourself as a survivor not a victim. And be patient. Everyone takes different times to heal.

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It's time to get on the move

It's moving day.

I have snacks packed for the crazy day ahead. I like options so I brought three kinds and then I have some to share with others.

I also started the day out right with a bowl of oats and some unseen scrambled cheezy egg whites. I'm running on limited supplies due to the fact that I stayed at the old house last night, but most of the food is at the new house. But I think I made it work really well.

I don't know when I'll be back, but I will give you all the details of the house and the amazing healthy living/fitness friendly neighborhood.

A Great day

Mmmm Great Harvest pancakes with mixed berries and dark chocolate chips. Topped with almond flax butter, raspberry all fruit spread, sauteed pear, and coconut. I've decided that Kodiak pancakes are actually better then Great Harvest's. Enjoyed with several cups of tropical green tea.

I'm heading to the gym for a nice workout including a super butt kicking leg and ab session. I love working out in the am and especially when I'm not on any time restrictions, yipee.

Crunch time

We are in prime moving preparedness. I did make it to the gym today, and it was so nice to feel those endorphins and burn off some stress and anxiety. With all the things I need to do in the next 24hrs the last thing I wanted to do was worry about dinner. So I picked up a salad and some chicken white bean Chile soup. It was no Whole Foods soup and salad, which was what I really wanted, but it was still good.

The Truth About Domestic Violence

By Roberto Blanco, M.D.



In my work with patients across the world, I can´t help but notice how many come to psychiatric clinics as a result of domestic violence. Despite its prevalence in other countries, domestic violence is also quite common in the United States. In the United States alone, 22 percent of women are physically assaulted by an intimate partner during their lifetimes and over 5 million are victims every year. Domestic violence touches all elements of society regardless of age, race, or socioeconomic status.

As a child psychiatrist, I can´t help but think of the smallest victims of domestic violence as I often see them in my clinical work. These are the children who are either involved secondarily by witnessing the abuse or become victims directly themselves. The effects of domestic violence on this population are far ranging and long lasting. As these children develop, they may struggle to deal with conflict. They may also become aggressive or experience severe depression, nightmares and other symptoms of post-traumatic stress, as well as other anxieties or fears.



The effects of domestic violence on children are dependent on the nature and severity of the abuse and on the developmental level of the child. Young babies and infants cannot understand why violence occurs in the home and so violence in this population can cause deep-seated changes in personality, self-esteem, and ways of interacting with others that can last for a lifetime. Often older children have a better understanding of what is going on, but still often blame themselves for the abuse and can have excessive guilt or anger as a result.



Domestic violence does not need to be only physical to qualify as a form of abuse. Abuse can also take the form of emotional, financial, or sexual control or disregard. Initially, characteristics of an abusive relationship can often be endearing such as wanting to be with you all of the time. Over time, this can become intense jealousy for no reason, excessive control over relationships and behaviors, and aggression or violence. Options for milder forms of emotional abuse can include family and/or individual therapy. For severe cases, there may be a need to get out of the situation or to a safe house. For more information on domestic violence, please see the American Pyschiatric Association's brochure  Let´s Talk Facts About Domestic Violence.

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Balancing life

Yesterday was such a crazy and long day. I wasn't able to make it to the gym which was disappointing because for one I love working and two it's a great stress relief. This week things are so crazy with buying a house that I could have really used that workout. But I have plans to workout today after work, can't wait.

I brought back a classic breakfast this morning with whipped banana chia oats.
In the pot:
a little less then 1/4 oat bran
2 TB. whole wheat farina hot cereal
hot water
soymilk
1/4 banana diced
1/4 tsp. chia seeds

Topped with
raspberry all fruit spread
Kashi 7 grain nuggets (yes I love these guys)

The next few days are going to be crazy and super busy. I hopefully get my keys for my new house tomorrow and then I'm moving the next three days. Wish me luck. A tip that I always stick with during these stressful times is eating healthy, getting 8 hrs. of sleep, and working out. Those three things create the perfect balance in life, at least for me.

Lessons Learned in the Wake of Tragedy

By Gina Newsome Duncan, M.D.





Dr. Molly McVoy recently blogged about the horrific shootings of Representative Gabrielle Giffords and others on Saturday, January 8, 2011. This tragic incident has sparked widespread national debate about all aspects of the case, including mental health treatment in this country and links between violence and mental illness.



The fact is that most people with mental illness are not violent, and that violence is most often caused by those who are not mentally ill. However, this incident does provide an opportunity for us as a nation, to seriously consider the state of our mental health services. If we examine it carefully, we can possibly prevent further acts of violence, and also think about how we help those who are in need of mental health treatment.



It is an unfortunate reality that mental illness remains largely shrouded in stigma, and tragic events such as this often help to only deepen that stigma in the minds of the public. As a result of this stigma, many people live with unnecessary shame and suffering, not seeking the help that they need. Most often, the primary victim is the person living with the illness, and by extension, their loved ones. Very rarely, however, untreated illness can lead to tragic consequences that reach far beyond the person with the illness and his or her family.



Like physical illness, mental illness has the best outcome when recognized and treated early. We should let this tragedy be a call to become more proactive in addressing issues of mental illness in our communities.

There are several important steps that can be taken:



1) As a public, we can become more informed about the signs, symptoms and treatment of mental illness.



2) We can all work to  destigmatize mental illness. The American Psychiatric Association’s Council on Communications is actively involved using this blog and with other activities.



3) Educate yourself on how mental health is funded in your community and let your vote count when issues of mental health funding are on the ballot.





It is true that there are rare situations in which a person with a severe mental illness may become violent. In most cases, this violence will be self-directed in the form of suicidal acts, but in rare instances, it may be directed toward others as well. What can be done in those situations?



1) If you are personally experiencing a mental illness and are having thoughts of harming yourself or others, it is important that you seek help from a doctor, therapist, or 911 immediately.



2) If you are the friend or family member of a person experiencing a severe mental illness and you are concerned due to actions or statements they have made that they may be a danger to themselves or others, it is important that you seek help from a doctor, therapist, or by calling 911 immediately.



a. Be as detailed about your concerns as possible.



b. Do not let your concern go unheard, put it in writing.



c. Firearms and weapons should be kept sealed and locked, or ideally, removed from the home.



d. Unfortunately, many communities do not have adequate crisis prevention resources. Familiarize yourself with the procedures your community does have for involuntary hospitalization. You can get this information by calling your local health department, hospital department of psychiatry, emergency room, community mental health center, family physician, or police department.

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Crunchy topping

I created a yummy crunchy topping for this morning's pancake. It was simple but so yummy.
In the batter:
1/4 cup oat bran
2 TB. whole wheat farina hot cereal
3 egg whites
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/4 of a smashed banana

Topped with
almond flax nut butter
Kashi 7 grain nuggets sprinkled onto the almond butter so it would stick
raspberry all fruit spread

I saw a recipe for a cinnamon crumble on top of a pancake the other day. That's my next pancake creation I want to make. Maybe that can be what I make my first morning in my new house. Which is just day's away.

The best end to the day

I had my super packing smoothie this afternoon. I had it well over an hour before going to the gym. And although it was very tasty, it was hard to drink because it was so cold out and it left me super full and bloated feeling. It actually hindered my workout. So I don't think I will be doing that again. Maybe I'll have my smoothies on the weekend on my rest days. They pack a lot of good nutrition into a cup, so I'd like to have them regularly.

Dinner was nothing fancy, right down to the paper towel as a plate. That's what happens when the kitchens mostly all packed up and the day has been so busy. But I'm sure glad I thought ahead and made a big batch of soup to have ready to go.

For dessert I had one of these little cookies. Dang Whole Foods for passing out samples. They are so tasty but pretty expensive, so I always have to wait for them to go on sale. Watch out they are really addicting, but a great way to end the day.

Winning the battle

Slowly but surely I think I'm winning the battle with this cold. But I'm still sleepy this morning so I kept it simple and made quick cook oats.

Topped with
sliced banana
pinch of coconut
raspberry all fruit spread
cherry granola from the store bulk bin

Power up

I took a partial sick day today to rest and kick this cold before I move this weekend. In the afternoon I drank half of this Naked power C superfood juice to get in some emergency nutrients.

Dinner was simple yet very tasty. I made a quick casserole with a layer of baked blue corn chips topped with a mix of one can Amy's refried black bean and half a jar of Tj's spicy black bean dip. Topped off with some salsa and mozzarella cheese. I baked it in the oven for about 25 min. Enough to warm everything up, but also short enough to leave half the chips still crispy.

Paired with some mixed greens and more salsa.

I picked up some supplies today for some super nutrient packing smoothies this week. I love smoothies but in the winter they just don't appeal to me as much as they do in the summer. I plan to have one every day this week before heading to the gym. In the mix is going to be spinach, mixed berries, almond milk, 1/4 of a banana, protein powder, and a packet of this kids amazing grass superfood. I wanted to give this amazing grass a try. I can't do the regular version because it has Acai in it, which I'm allergic to. The kids is just fruit and veggies.

I also picked up some unsweetened chocolate almond milk. I've never tried chocolate almond milk, so hopefully it's really good. It doesn't have any sugar, it just has unsweetened cocoa. From a health perspective that's a good thing, but for taste it could be a bad thing. Here's hoping it's good.

I told you I'm kicking this cold. I have a lot of important things to take care of this week.

Can't shake it

I just can't shake this dang cold. I should be getting better but it's like I'm getting a little worse each day. So I was not in the mood this morning for anything complicated for breakfast.

In a bowl I threw together some Kashi GoLean berry crisp cereal and some Kashi 7 grain nugget cereal topped with soymilk. I also topped it with some diced up banana and almond flax nut butter. Warmed up in the microwave for 30 sec. and enjoyed with a cup of Tazo blueberry white tea.

I'm ready for another day of trying to kick this cold. Everyone around me seems to have some variation of it.

Soups on

Earlier today I picked up some broccoli cheddar soup from the Whole Foods soup bar to deliver to a sick friend. I also delivered some other nourishing foods to help them feel better. On the drive over to deliver the soup the smell of the soup in my car was just too good. So I decided to make a similar soup for dinner.

I made one of my favorite quick and easy soups, broccoli and potato soup.

In the pot:
1 large package shredded frozen potatoes
2 packages frozen broccoli
1 pkg. diced Tj's sun dried tomato chicken sausage
1 quart non fat organic milk
1 box vegetable stock
1 cup mozzarella cheese (should be cheddar cheese but I was out)
Italian seasoning, garlic, chili flakes, salt, and pepper

It also would have been good with a bag of frozen diced bell peppers and onions.
Simmer on medium for one hour.

Served with my favorite pairing, Kashi crackers and hummus.

To kill a cold

That dang head cold is still lingering and all though it's Sunday and I should have been sleeping in, I instead woke up at 3am. I layed there until 4:15am and then I couldn't take the pounding in my head anymore.

Around 5am I had a sliced of Great Harvest whole wheat cinnamon bread to tide me over and a cup of green tea.

And around 8am I had some scrambled egg whites and an oatmeal pancake. I'm moving in a week so my pancake was missing some of my key components, like apple or pear sauce.

In the oat mix
1/2 a cup of oats
some soymilk
1/4 tsp. baking soda
dash salt
1/4 mashed banana
Topped with
Justin's honey peanut butter
raisins
3 chocolate chips
drizzle of raw carrot honey

My goal today is to get some rest, do a little packing, go on a trip to Target, and most importantly to make sure I get all the vitamins and nutrients I can today. I need to get over this cold. I have a very busy week ahead of me.

A little dinner help

What a long day. So on my home this evening after running all around town I swung in to Whole Foods to pick up some dinner.

You guessed it I hit up the salad bar and it was amazing. This combo really hit the spot tonight. I just love all the choices that the Whole Foods salad bar has.

Last one

I had the last pear oatmeal bar. I still cant tell you enough how good these are. Check out the recipe and make these, you wont be disappointed.

I topped my piece with sliced banana, Justin's honey peanut butter, and coconut. Enjoyed with my favorite tea, Mighty Leaf green tea tropical. It just doesn't get any better then this. Well if I could lounge in my pajama's while enjoying this Saturday morning that would make it even better. But I gotta go to work and then I'm heading to the gym for a quick workout, and then I have a list of errands a mile long for this afternoon/evening. See you at the end of all that. Have a great Saturday.