Air and water pollution increasingly contribute to allergy, asthma, and other related diseases. Medical and scientific studies confirm this reality. Because air and water are essential to human life, it is of utmost importance that we keep them clean and pure. Some contributing factors to worsening environment pollution seem beyond our control. However, there are certain steps we can take to minimize the risk of exposure.
For one thing, I use a water filter attached under the sink. It's less costly and probably more effective than the bottled water (there was recent article contradicting claims about water quality made by water bottling companies). You can also buy an air purifier with a HEPA filter. I use it and find it very useful. Another good idea is to throw out products that contribute to indoor pollution such as paints, aerosol sprays, and harsh chemical products. I highly recommend placing living plants inside and outside of your home. They not only help purify the air but adds aesthetic beauty and style. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables along with antioxidant supplements would be very helpful as well. If you live in areas with heavy smog and polluted air, you can try to move or avoid being outside during certain times of the day when the air quality is the worst. I realize the last suggestion is easier said than done. But hey, what's the important issue here...it's your health and general well-being, right? :)
August 24, 2009
The current challenging times are improving slowly but the fatigue people experience is palpable. To combat lack of energy, I recommend "Breath of Fire" from kundalini yoga. Demonstration is shown in the video below. As always, be mindful of your physical condition so you don't over-exert. Start gently and slowly in terms of duration and stop if you feel dizzy or experience headache.
August 17, 2009
Growing up in South Korea, taking ginseng (medicinal herb) either in powder form or as part of herbal medicine was common and frequent. I must say I wasn't really aware of the efficacy of ginseng then. My mother gave it to me to boost energy level and I simply took it and sensed it helped me to stay healthier.
Then I came across this finding that ginseng has now been shown in a laboratory to have anti-inflammatory effects. Researchers from the University of Hong Kong treated human immune cells with different extracts of ginseng. They found that of the nine identified ginseng constituents known as ginsenosides, seven could selectively inhibit expression of the inflammatory gene CXCL-10.
Certainly a good news that the rigorous lab studies are validating traditional medicinal herbs such as ginseng to possess potent healing properties. Well, I think I will have another ginseng tea now...with honey!
August 10, 2009
We tend to imagine or think about spiritual leaders as solemn, stern, detached, and perhaps a bit "super" human. I believe the Dalai Lama, shatters some of these preconceived notions. He represents many things to different people. To me, he is warm, down-to-earth, humorous, practical, engaged, and human...albeit a very wise, evolved human. Here is a photo of him joking with his nasal spray after being asked his opinion on the swine flu during a press conference (AFP/Getty Images). Heeheeheeheehee....
August 03, 2009
I recall how frightened and helpless I felt when my young son had an asthma attack. We can't completely prevent asthma symptoms but there are things we can do to manage them so our children are able to maintain normal lifestyle.
The American Lung Association offers this advice about controlling asthma:
Avoid any triggers, which commonly include allergens, cigarette smoke and strenuous exercise.
Talk to your child's pediatrician about asthma-controlling medications.
Consider allergy shots. Although research is still being done on their effectiveness against asthma, they are proven in preventing allergic reactions that can be associated with asthma symptoms.
Both you and your child should be well-educated about ways to manage asthma, including the use of an asthma inhaler and how to evaluate breathing with a peak flow monitor.
Also visit Asthma page on this site for more information and to learn natural, holistic ways to treat asthma.
First-Person Stories 
