2020 - The Health Sessions

How to Maintain a Sense of Independence When You’re Sick

No man is an island. As much as we’d all like to believe we’re independent creatures, everybody depends on others for things like food, shelter, transportation and medical care.

But when you have to rely on others for your most basic self-care, from getting dressed to making a sandwich, ‘dependency’ gets a whole new meaning. Without help, everyday things suddenly become a major obstacle.

A study from the UK shows that many people with chronic illness are very concerned about becoming a burden. So much so, that some sick people will go to “supernormal lengths” to keep doing their part, even when that takes a physical toll on them. Being dependent can also make people feel useless, guilty and shameful. And this uselessness only intensifies the loss of self so many ill people struggle with.

But when you’re chronically ill and are limited in what you can do, how can you maintain a sense of independence despite your real reliance? There’s no simple answer, but here are some ideas.

10 Summer Essentials for a Fun Staycation

Ok, you’ve got your bathing suit, shades and sunscreen covered. But which other summer essentials do you need to turn these warm months into a fun and relaxing time?

No matter if you’re hitting the beach or hanging out in your backyard, here are 10 must-have items for a summer to remember.

Go Natural: 4 Health Benefits of Organic Health Care and Beauty Products

This article is written by Sarah Smith.

Health care and beauty products have come a long way in modern times. From the old fashioned products that rose to prominence in the 1920s, we have created a massively diverse range of products. Customers have more choices than ever before, and navigating the endless choices can be confusing.

People are pushing for natural, organic, and healthy options more than ever before as new science shows how manufactured chemicals can be detrimental. There are numerous benefits to using organic health care and beauty products, for the consumer and the planet.

4 Family Coping Skills After a Loved One’s Unexpected Diagnosis

This article is written by Frankie Wallace.

Getting news of a loved one’s terminal or chronic diagnosis can leave a family destabilized and in shock. Family members will all go through the different stages of grief from shock to acceptance at different rates — and it’s perfectly natural. Although you may all be hurting differently, the potential loss of a loved one is not the time to be alone.

Consider the following coping skills you can use as a family to weather the storm and come to terms with the difficult news.

Hydrotherapy: 5 Ways to Use the Healing Power of Water at Home

Hydrotherapy: How to Experience the Healing Power of Water at Home

What’s more relaxing than soaking in a warm bath after a tiring day?

All throughout history and around the world, people have immersed themselves in water to feel better. And modern science proves them right. Depending on the temperature and use of water, hydrotherapy can improve several physiological functions of your body. For example, being in cold water speeds up your metabolism and improves immunity markers, while warm water decreases muscle soreness and eases pain. Steam rooms, on the other hand, support your natural detoxification and blood circulation.

The good news is: you don’t necessarily have to book a fancy spa treatment to get these benefits. With a little effort, you can turn your daily tub time into a health-boosting ritual too.

Take a look at these 5 ways to practice hydrotherapy at home.