v4 magazine - issue 1
DESCRIPTION
Welcome to the first issue of V4 Magazine. V4 stands for vim, vigor, vitality and vibrance. While all these words have similar definitions, they are also very different. What they have in common is they are all used when defining an ideal and healthy lifestyle. V4 will endeavor to expose our readers to information that will provide the foundation for creating a positive lifestyle filled with good health, happiness and a true appreciation for life. V4 will not be your typical healthy-lifestyle magazine. Sure, we will have articles related to health in the traditional sense of the word, but we believe a more holistic perspective is needed when searching for true wellbeing. We will explore lifestyle enhancing topics from A to Z with an emphasis on, what we refer to as, “the whole body”. The whole body is more than just a catch phrase - it is a way of living that promotes love for oneself regardless of height, weight, body shape, looks or any of the other “surface” things.TRANSCRIPT
1V4Magazine.com
FREEMAGAZINEenjoy!
Can beer boost brain power?
I S S U E O N E
How a healthy diet helps you and the
environment
9 ways to improve your golf game
give your body a makeover without diet, exercise or surgery.
Now you can transform yourself without diet, exercise or surgery. Sculpt yourself with CoolSculpting®.
CoolSculpting® is the only non-surgical body contouring treatment that freezes and eliminates stubborn fat from your body. There are no needles, no special diets and no downtime. It’s FDA-cleared, safe and proven effective.
BEFORE 6 WEEKS AFTERProcedure by Martin Braun, MD
BEFORE 6 WEEKS AFTER
Results and patient experience may vary. Ask us for more information.In the U.S., CoolSculpting® for non-invasive fat reduction is cleared for the flank and abdomen.
CoolSculpting® is a registered trademark and the CoolSculpting® logo and the Snowflake design are trademarks of ZELTIQ Aesthetics, Inc. © 2012. All rights reserved. IC1156-A
Join Us For A Cool Event Hosted by Summit Laser & Cosmetic Center
Thursday February 6th10am, 6pm515 West Salisbury St. Suite D Asheboro, NC
• Live demonstrations • Free consultations • Special event pricing • Register to win a free CoolSculpting® treatment! * Door Prizes
Space is limited. Reserve your spot today!
Call (336) 636-5100
For more information, visit www.summitlacc.com
Available space for logo and text
Now you can transform yourself without diet, exercise or surgery. transform yourself without diet, exercise or surgery. transform yourself
give your body a makeover without diet, exercise or surgery.
Now you can transform yourself without diet, exercise or surgery. Sculpt yourself with CoolSculpting®.
CoolSculpting® is the only non-surgical body contouring treatment that freezes and eliminates stubborn fat from your body. There are no needles, no special diets and no downtime. It’s FDA-cleared, safe and proven effective.
BEFORE 6 WEEKS AFTERProcedure by Martin Braun, MD
Results and patient experience may vary. Ask us for more information.In the U.S., CoolSculpting® for non-invasive fat reduction is cleared for the flank and abdomen.
CoolSculpting® is a registered trademark and the CoolSculpting® logo and the Snowflake design are trademarks of ZELTIQ Aesthetics, Inc. © 2012. All rights reserved. IC1156-A
Join Us For A Cool Event SUMMIT LASER & COSMETIC CENTER
Tuesday, April 28th10am and 5:30pm515 D, West Salisbury St. Asheboro, NC
• Live demonstrations • Free consultations • Special pricing for attendees • Fun gifts and door prizes • See what all the hype is about!
Space is limited. Reserve your spot today!
Call (336) 636-5100
For more information on Coolsculpting visit www.summitlacc.com
Available space for logo and text BEFORE 6 WEEKS AFTER
give your body a makeover without diet, exercise or surgery.
Now you can transform yourself without diet, exercise or surgery. Sculpt yourself with CoolSculpting®.
CoolSculpting® is the only non-surgical body contouring treatment that freezes and eliminates stubborn fat from your body. There are no needles, no special diets and no downtime. It’s FDA-cleared, safe and proven effective.
BEFORE 6 WEEKS AFTERProcedure by Martin Braun, MD
Results and patient experience may vary. Ask us for more information.In the U.S., CoolSculpting® for non-invasive fat reduction is cleared for the flank and abdomen.
CoolSculpting® is a registered trademark and the CoolSculpting® logo and the Snowflake design are trademarks of ZELTIQ Aesthetics, Inc. © 2012. All rights reserved. IC1156-A
Join Us For A Cool Event Hosted by Summit Laser & Cosmetic Center
Thursday February 6th10am, 6pm515 West Salisbury St. Suite D Asheboro, NC
• Live demonstrations • Free consultations • Special event pricing • Register to win a free CoolSculpting® treatment! * Door Prizes
Space is limited. Reserve your spot today!
Call (336) 636-5100
For more information, visit www.summitlacc.com
Available space for logo and text
3V4Magazine.com
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BEFOREAFTER
4 Issue 1 | V4 Magazine
Can beer boost brain power?
Snack foods that promote better sleep
V4 Expert - Chiropractor
Health benefits of meditation
Did you know?
Encourage a love of physical activity in youngsters
How a healthy diet helps you and the environment
Trendy exercises to rev up workouts
9 ways to improve your golf game
Embrace an active outdoor lifestyle
E-cigarettes and quitting smoking
V4 Recipe
There is newfound reason to indulge in a pint or two of your favorite beer, and it’s not just to catch up and share a few laughs with friends.
According to the National Sleep Foundation, changes in sleep patterns are a part of the aging process.
Tired of taking medication for headache pain that won’t go away?
Meditation is often trumped as a means to reducing stress and restoring healthy function in the body.
The benefits of laughter can mimic those of exercise
According to the US DHHS, children and adolescents should engage in physical activity for 60 minutes or more each day.
The right dietary choices can not only improve your health but the environment as well.
Exercising consistently is a great way to get healthy.
Warmer weather sends scores of golfers to their favorite courses each and every day.
Blue skies and warm weather entice people to enjoy the great outdoors.
Blue skies and warm weather entice people to enjoy the great outdoors.
Surprise guests with homemade crêpes.
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c o n t e n T s
5V4Magazine.com
Cover Photo
Contributors
Dolphin Custom Media Staff
San Diego, CA | Asheboro, NCCuecna, Ecuador
Web: http://www.V4magazine.comFacebook: V4magazine
Twitter: V4Mag
Michael Harmon, PT, Sally Carré, Dr. McCall Sink Tanner, jacquie Reininger,
Iman Poeraatmadja, Lina Landess
Publisher, Brad [email protected]
619.300.1732
Editor, Sherry [email protected]
336.257.8579
Advertising Director, David A. [email protected]
336.328.7714
V4 Magazine is published by Dolphin Custom Media. Any reproduction or duplication of any part thereof must be done with the written permission of the Publisher. All information included herein is correct to the best of our knowledge as of the publication date. Corrections should be forwarded to the Publisher at the address above.
Disclaimer: The paid advertisements contained within V4 Magazine are not endorsed or recommended by the Publisher. Therefore, neither party may be held liable for the business practices of these companies.
© Dolphin Custom Media, Inc. 2015
Donna Allen Photography
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6 Issue 1 | V4 Magazine
p u b l i s h e r
Publisher
DEAR READER,
B r a d W e b e r
Welcome to the first issue of V4 Magazine. V4 stands for vim, vigor, vitality and vibrance. While all these words have similar definitions, they are
also very different. What they have in common is they are all used when defining an ideal and healthy lifestyle. V4 will endeavor to expose our readers to information that will provide the foundation for creating a positive lifestyle filled with good health, happiness and a true appreciation for life.
V4 will not be your typical healthy-lifestyle magazine. Sure, we will have articles related to health in the traditional sense of the word, but we believe a more holistic perspective is needed when searching for true wellbeing. We will explore lifestyle enhancing topics from A to Z with an emphasis on, what we refer to as, “the whole body”. The whole body is more than just a catch phrase - it is a way of living that promotes love for oneself regardless of height, weight, body shape, looks or any of the other “surface” things that have very little importance in living a fulfilled life. On the other hand, if you want to improve your physical appearance, we will explore safe and cost-effective ways of doing so. In other words, no topic is taboo as long as it helps our readers improve their whole-body health.
We have an “open page” policy. That is, we welcome submissions from our readers. After all, this magazine is for you and we believe our readers will benefit from your experience. If you have something you’d like to submit, please e-mail it to me at [email protected]. Also, we welcome and appreciate constructive criticism. We can’t become better without feedback from our readers. We would ask that you keep it as positive as possible. We understand that we can’t make everyone happy, but that won’t stop us from trying. One way to get better is feedback.
Thank you for reading and enjoy this first issue. We truly hope you find something in our pages that will make create an “a-ha moment” or clear up a mystery that has held you back. Undoubtedly there is a tremendous amount of information out there. We hope that you find everything we share worthwhile and worthy of your time.
Thanks and take care,
7V4Magazine.com
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8 Issue 1 | V4 Magazine
Can beer boost brain power?
New research has shown that a chemical compound in beer may be able to improve cognitive function.
There is newfound reason
to indulge in a pint or
two of your favorite beer,
and it’s not just to catch
up and share a few laughs with
friends. New research has shown
that a chemical compound in beer
may be able to improve cognitive
function. The beverage once
thought to obliterate brain cells
when consumed in abundance
may actually have the opposite
effect and boost brain power.
No one should run out an start
imbibing just yet, however. The
study that ran in Behavioral Brain
Research in October 2014 was
preliminary and only conducted
on lab mice. During the study,
scientists discovered that
xanthohumol, a type of flavonoid
found in beer, seemed to improve
brain function in the young
mice given xanthohumol doses.
The cognitive flexibility of the
mice was tested with a specially
designed maze, and younger
mice showed signs of intellectual
improvement. Older mice showed
no improvements. Researchers
believe xanthohumol and other
flavonoids, such as those found
in red wine, blueberries and dark
chocolate, may play a role in
helping a person form memories.
The mice were given very high
doses of the flavonoid. A person
would have to drink roughly
By Staff Writer
9V4Magazine.com
2,000 liters of beer a day to equal
what the mice consumed to show
improvement. However, should a
supplement hit the market down
the road, it may just be possible
for men and women to consume
a potentially beneficial amount of
xanthohumol without bellying up
at the bar.
One of the goals of the
xanthohumol study was to
examine its potential efficacy
at treating age-related deficits
in memory. Xanthohumol
also may benefit those with
metabolic syndrome, a condition
associated with obesity and high
blood pressure, as it can speed
metabolism and reduce fatty
acids in the liver.
Flavonoids are plant compounds
that often provide plants with
their color. Scientists have
attributed many health benefits
to flavonoids in foods and
plants and have even suggested
flavonoids can help in the fight
against cancer and heart disease.
Xanthohumol is rare and is
most often found in the hops
commonly used to make beer.
While doctors and researchers
do not suggest running out and
consuming a few six packs right
now in the goal of improving brain
function and cramming for that
next test, xanthohumol may one
day be harvested from beer hops
to slow down age-related memory
deficits.
10 Issue 1 | V4 Magazine
v 4 E x p E R TC H I R O p R A C T O R
HEADACHEs
Tired of taking medication for headache pain that won’t go away? There are an estimated 8 million
Americans that suff er from severe, recurring attacks of migraine and tension headaches. They spend upwards of $40 million each year on over-the-counter and prescription drugs in their search for permanent relief. For some, the medication works. Unfortunately for many the relief obtained is temporary at best. A cycle of headaches and medication often occurs without any lasting relief found. If you think this describes your pain then there is good news for you.
Recent studies link headaches pain to nerve irritation. One study, conducted at the University of Maryland, found a connection between muscle tension at the base of the neck and headaches. Muscle contractions interfere with the sensitive fi bers at the base of the neck that lead to the brain and spinal cord. This muscle tension often plays a contributing factor to headache pain. Another study conducted by Dr. Wright found that the vast majority of migraine headache suff erers had misalignments of the spinal vertebrae in the neck that was placing pressure on the spinal nerves. The only thing those nerves can do to let you know something is wrong is to send you a pain signal. Unfortunately they can’t text you or
email you to get an adjustment.
The reason headaches are allusive to most people is because you cannot see pressure. You go to the doctor and the x rays might show minor degeneration or arthritis, but overall they show no reason for the headaches. Next you head to the neurologist who will do an MRI and CT scans, which all come out with a similar diagnosis. If there is no physical thing they can see on a scan, a tumor for example, then they do not have a reason for the headaches. Most often their answer is medication to help numb the nerves so you cannot feel the headache anymore. There are a laundry list of medications that they can prescribe, including Relpex and Topamax, which seems to be the most popular. The problem with these medications is they do not solve the structural issue causing the problem. So, while the nerve is numb and the headaches seem to have “gone away,” you are inadvertently allowing more damage to occur to the underlying structure.
What Chiropractors work with is the pressure build up in the body. We release the pressure off the neck, skull and nerve which allows the nerve to relax and discontinue sending pain signals to the brain. We release this pressure via an adjustment. This strategy works for many headache suff erers, not
Dr. McCall Sink Tanner
received her Life Science
degree from Lenior-Rhyne
University, before attending
the Logan College of
Chiropractic in St. Louis,
MO. She worked as an
Independent Contractor
at Blase Chiropractic in
Asheboro and purchased the
practice in March, 2014.
177 NC Highway 42 N Suite A
Asheboro, NC (336) 625-1750
11V4Magazine.com
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With Convenient Locations to Serve You Better
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only in our offi ce but also in several studies. One such study, conducted by the government of New Zealand found that the majority of people who suff ered from spinal misalignments have their headaches relieved or their condition improved through chiropractic care. And in follow-up studies of the same patients, it was found that many were still without recurring headache pain two years later.I promise you headaches are not something to be taken lightly. It is your body begging for attention. The longer you let them go the worse they can get and the harder they are to fi x for me. It allows the spine to continue to degenerate and build up pressure. Once too much degeneration has happened, there becomes a point where there is nothing we can do for it. A neurosurgical consult must be made at that time.
Remember headaches can happen from little children all the way up to senior citizens. Most women carry all of their stress and tension in their shoulders and their neck. This means they are more prone to headaches. On a daily basis I see at least 25-30 women who are dealing with headache pain. The success rate getting rid of headaches with a chiropractor is near 100%. It is one of my favorite things to work with. It is the most debilitating for women yet the easiest thing to fi x in our offi ce. I love nothing more than being able to take headaches away from women!
12 Issue 1 | V4 Magazine
The benefits OF LAUGHTER can mimic those of exercise
DID yOU knOw?By Staff Writer
13V4Magazine.com
Though laughter is
often referred to as
“the best medicine,”
no definitive study has
been conducted to determine
the effects of laughter on overall
human health, leaving open
the possibility that maintaining
a good sense of humor and
a positive attitude are just as
important, if not more important,
than finding time to laugh each
day. But even if laughter is not
medicinal, its benefits can mimic
those of exercise. When a person
laughs, his or her pulse and blood
pressure increase, and people
tend to breathe faster when they
laugh. Faster breathing sends
more oxygen to the tissues, which
can help the heart and lungs work
more efficiently. In addition, a
Vanderbilt University study found
that between 10 and 15 minutes
of laughter can burn as many as
50 calories. Finding time to laugh
may also indirectly improve the
body’s immune system response,
as studies have suggested that
infection-fighting antibodies
might be more abundant in
people who can use humor to
combat stress.
14 Issue 1 | V4 Magazine
HOw A HEALTHy DIET HELps yOU AnD THE EnvIROnmEnT
The right dietary choices can not only improve your health but the environment as well.
But urbanization and increasingly
busy schedules force many
people to seek the most
convenient, and not necessarily
the healthiest, foods.
The growing reliance on
processed foods may be hurting
humans and the planet they
call home. Processed foods
tend to be loaded with starches
and preservatives, increasing
consumers’ risk of diabetes and
being obese. In addition, many
prepackaged foods are shipped
from faraway processing plants,
and vast amounts of fuel must
be consumed for products to get
from those plants to local grocery
stores.
But subtle shifts in dietary
habits and trends can decrease
mortality rates and reduce global
greenhouse gas emissions
resulting from food production.
Adopting alternative diets that
feature a higher ratio of fish,
whole grains and locally grown
produce can greatly reduce an
individual’s carbon footprint.
The “New Nordic Diet” is one
example of a growing dietary
trend that has the potential to
improve the health of humans
and the environment. So says
Henrik Saxe, an associate
professor who specializes in
sustainability at Copenhagen
University. Researchers found a
reduction in greenhouse gases
of at least 6 percent with the
New Nordic Diet, as compared to
typical diets in Denmark.
The following are a few ways
average men and women can eat
to promote their own health while
simultaneously protecting the
environment.
· Adopt climate-friendly eating
habits that rely on more domestic,
By Lina Landess
15V4Magazine.com
in-season foods.
· Cut down on meat consumption.
· Eat organic foods as much as
possible.
· Avoid seafood harvested from
fish farms which can negatively
impact your own health and
marine life.
· Grow your own fruits and
vegetables.
· Shop at local markets that
support nearby farms and
farmer’s markets.
· Purchase products with the least
amount of packaging
The “New Nordic Diet” is one example of a growing dietary trend that has the potential to improve the health of humans and the environment.
,,
16 Issue 1 | V4 Magazine
9 wAys TO ImpROvE yOUR GOLF GAmE
· Choose the right clubs. There
is more to selecting clubs than
pulling any old iron out of your
golf bag and whacking away.
Wind, hazards and obstructions
in landing areas should influence
your decision of which club to
use. Novice golfers may want to
rely on their caddies to make club
recommendations, and as they
become more confident in their
abilities they can start to make
their own choices.
· Anchor your feet. Anchor your
foot behind the ball to drive the
ball further. Right-handed players
will keep the right foot anchored,
and lefties will do the opposite.
Warmer weather sends scores of golfers to their favorite courses each and every day. Golf is a challenging pastime, but a few pointers can help golfers hone their short games, long games and everything in between.
By Iman Poeraatmadja
17V4Magazine.com
· Use your torso for power. The
torso is essential to a solid swing.
Practice rotating from your core to
control your backswing and then
maintain the same spine angle
and posture on the downswing.
· Use the wind. Not every golf
game will be played in perfect
weather. A good player knows
how to make adjustments for the
wind depending on the shot. Use
the wind to your advantage when
you can, and adjust your swing
when hitting into the wind.
· Become a better chipper. Many
players put so much emphasis
on their backswings and putt
As with any hobby, identifying those areas that need the most work can help you become a better golfer. Keep track of each shot you take, and then look at the results to see which areas of your game need the most work.
,,
Do not lift your foot prematurely;
otherwise, you can lose power
and distance.
· Identify your weaknesses. As
with any hobby, identifying those
areas that need the most work
can help you become a better
golfer. Keep track of each shot
you take, and then look at the
results to see which areas of your
game need the most work.
· Fix your alignment. Align your
shots by assessing the target
from behind the ball. Then set the
clubface behind the golf ball and
align it with the target before you
enter your stance.
shots that they fail to devote any
practice to chips. All shots are
important for golfers trying to
shed strokes off of their scores.
· Keep fit. Maintaining or
improving your physical strength
and overall health can help your
golf game. Exercise and eat
right, and you will have more
endurance on the links
18 Issue 1 | V4 Magazine
snACk FOODs THAT pROmOTE bETTER sLEEp
According to the National Sleep
Foundation, changes in sleep patterns
are a part of the aging process. Many
people experience difficulty falling asleep
and then staying asleep as they age, and that
difficulty can make men and women over 50 feel
more tired during the day.
But even though difficulty sleeping may be a part
of aging, that does not mean men and women over
50 cannot take steps to improve their sleeping
patterns. For example, certain snack foods may help
to improve quality of sleep, especially when these
foods replace less healthy snacking options. While
men and women over 50 should always consult
with their physicians before making any changes to
their diets, the AARP notes that the following are a
handful of snack foods that promote better sleep.
· Almonds: Magnesium is a mineral with muscle-
By Sally Carré
19V4Magazine.com
relaxing properties, and almonds contain enough
magnesium to help men and women get a better
night’s sleep. A small amount of almonds before bed
might be enough to make falling and staying asleep
easier.
· Bananas: Much like almonds, bananas provide a
substantial amount of magnesium. Bananas also
contain the amino acid tryptophan, which many
people associate with Thanksgiving turkey. While
tryptophan might be most often associated with the
sleepiness people feel after eating a holiday meal,
it also has been linked to better sleep quality, so a
banana shortly before bed might be just what you
need to fall and stay asleep.
· Cheese and crackers: One more traditional snack
may just help you get a better night’s sleep. Cheese
and crackers contain tryptophan and carbohydrates,
which can induce a better night’s sleep and help you
fall asleep sooner.
· Cherries: Cherries contain the sleep hormone
melatonin, and the AARP notes that recent studies
indicated that participants who drank tart cherry
juice on a daily basis fell asleep more quickly and
slept longer and better than participants who did not.
· Hummus: The primary ingredient in hummus
is chickpeas, which are loaded with tryptophan,
folate and vitamin B6. Folate has proven especially
beneficial to older men and women who need help
regulating their sleep patterns, while vitamin B6
helps the body regulate its clock.
· Peanut butter: Peanut butter is another snacking
item loaded with tryptophan. Spread some peanut
butter on a carbohydrate, whether it’s a slice of toast
or some crackers, before going to bed, and you may
enjoy a better, longer sleep.
· Walnuts: Like cherries, walnuts contain melatonin,
which can contribute to a longer, more restful night’s
sleep. Walnuts also can help regulate stress, which
is a leading cause of sleeping difficulty.
Many men and women experience difficulty sleeping
as they age. But the right foods may just help
combat such problems and help men and women
get a more adequate night’s sleep.
20 Issue 1 | V4 Magazine
HEALTH bEnEFITs OF mEDITATIOnMeditation is often trumped as a means to reducing stress and restoring healthy function in the body.
While meditation might once have been considered a New Age treatment, in recent years it has developed into a mainstream practice supported by both traditional and alternative medical providers.
The Mayo Clinic says that anyone can practice meditation. A cost-effective treatment that does not require any special equipment or location, meditation has been practiced for thousands of years and originally was developed to help people understand the mystical or spiritual forces of life. Although meditation for some may still have religious or spiritual connotations, in a medical sense it is typically used for relaxation and stress reduction.
Various studies show that meditation can be associated with improvement of a variety of issues. Researchers describe meditation-based changes as ones that actually change the brain. Changes in the circuitry of the brain may affect the way a person responds to specific situations. The following are a few ways to put mindful meditation to use.
·Strengthen cognitive function: Dr. Sara Lazar, a neuroscientist at Massachusetts General Hospital, says meditation can help thicken the prefrontal cortex of the brain, helping to reverse the pattern of
cognitive function decline as one ages.
· Protect against heart disease: There is some indication that meditation can reduce concentrations of the marker C-reactive protein, which is associated with the development of heart disease.
· Stimulate the immune system: A study published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine found that mindfulness meditation increases electrical activity in the areas of the prefrontal cortex that serve as the command center for the immune system. When these areas are stimulated, the immune system works more effectively.
· Reduce blood pressure: The stress-boosting properties of meditation can help reduce hypertension. Researchers at the Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine attribute this to the increase of nitric oxide during meditation. Nitric oxide gas can expand blood vessels and open up blood channels.
Some experts also say that meditation can decrease metabolism and improve breathing. Meditation may be a mind-body way to beat some of the conditions that affect people during daily life. Meditation is not difficult to learn, but it something that requires practice to master.
By jacquie Reininger
21V4Magazine.com
22 Issue 1 | V4 Magazine
EnCOURAGE A LOvE OF pHysICAL ACTIvITy In yOUnGsTERs
According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, children and adolescents should engage in physical activity for 60 minutes or more each day.
While fulfilling those requirements might not have been a problem
for kids who grew up before the dawn of the Internet, nowadays kids are spending less time playing outside and more time on their computers or other devices.
That reality is problematic for parents who want their kids to embrace physical activity thanks to the positive impact that exercise can have on kids’ physical and mental well-being. Parents hoping to instill a love of physical activity in their
youngsters may find that taking a more active role by exercising with their kids is an effective way to get them off the couch and away from their computer screens.
· Turn errands into exercise opportunities. Many parents take their children along with them when running errands. When such errands don’t necessarily require the use of a car, consider riding bicycles instead. Kids who otherwise don’t enjoy errands may now find them more fun, all the while fulfilling their daily
recommended quotas for exercise and spending quality time with their parents.
· Include kids in your own athletic pursuits. Parents might not be able to take younger kids along with them to the gym, but that does not mean your youngsters must be excluded from all of your athletic pursuits. If you have any upcoming athletic activities or challenges on your schedule, such as a new recreational sports season or community fun run or 5K,
By Staff Writer
23V4Magazine.com
Some kids have no interest in team sports while others do not have the athletic ability to compete after a certain age.
,, let kids tag along as you train or practice. Parents of adolescents can inquire at their local gyms if they offer discounted memberships to teens. If so, take kids along with you on trips to the gym so they learn the value and benefits of daily strength and conditioning exercises.
·Make more time to play. Parents may already have busy schedules, but finding time to play with their kids is a great way to get youngsters to embrace physical activity. Kids might be reluctant to shoot hoops in the driveway if no one is willing to join them, but they will likely be far more willing to do so if mom and dad are willing to play with them. This is not only a good way for parents to ensure their kids get enough exercise, but also a great and fun way for moms and dads to make time for physical activity.
· Recognize that physical activity does not have to mean organized sports. Some kids have no interest in team sports while others do not have the athletic ability to compete after a certain age. Parents who want their kids to exercise more should recognize that there are plenty of ways to be physically active that do not involve organized team sports. Hiking; riding bicycles; swimming at a nearby pool, lake or ocean; and even going for nightly walks are all physical activities that people of all ages and athletic abilities can enjoy.
Physical activity is an important component of a healthy lifestyle. While getting kids to put down their tablets and gaming system remote controls may not be easy, parents who resolve to exercise with their children might find their youngsters more receptive to regular physical activity.
24 Issue 1 | V4 Magazine
from HIIT workouts.
KETTlEbEllS
These weighted cast-iron workout tools can be an interesting addi-tion to strength-training workouts. But their utility does not stop there. Using kettlebells during any physical activity will increase the amount of fat burned and can provide a full-body workout. Ket-tlebells come in different weights, and newcomers are urged to start out gradually and build up in weight as they become more familiar and toned.
Trampoline cardio
For those who want to both shake up their workouts and lift their moods, jumping on a trampoline can do just that. It’s difficult to be
TREnDy ExERCIsEs TO REv Up wORkOUTsExercising consistently is a great way to get healthy. For those who find their workout routines monotonous, switching up exercises and embracing some of the newer, trendier fitness regimens may be a way to maintain your momentum at the gym.
HigH-inTEnSiTy woRKouTS
High-intensity interval training, or HIIT, is a concept behind some of today’s most popular exercise programs. HIIT combines cardio-vascular and strength-training movements into a concentrated workout designed to keep your heart rate elevated. HIIT workouts blend bouts of intense exercise with either rest or low-intensity activity. These workouts seem to promote faster weight loss than prolonged workouts at moderate paces.
While HIIT is functional, it is not best for those who have preexist-ing orthopedic injuries or serious cardiovascular conditions. But many people enjoy a stronger heart and improved muscle tone
HIIT workouts blend bouts of intense exercise with either rest or low-intensity activity.
,,
By Michael Harmon
25V4Magazine.com
are ideal for those with muscle and joint pain because the buoy-ancy of the water reduces stress on these areas, while providing enough resistance for a deep workout. Workouts may begin in chest-deep water and progress to deeper water for added resist-ance. Some gyms now offer aqua cycling classes that combine water aerobics with spinning.
DanCE anD Hip-Hop ClaSSES
ZUMBA® classes have been popular for quite some time. But many health clubs offer additional classes that employ dance to burn calories and tone muscles.
in a bad mood when bouncing around like a kid on a trampoline. Trampoline classes are turning up in some upscale gyms, where each participant has his own indi-vidual trampoline. Routines mix in different choreography and small hand weights to promote a fun and effective cardio experience.
waTER aERobiCS
Swimming isn’t the only thing you can do in a pool. Water workouts
Some gyms have developed their own cardio-based dance classes that get people moving to music in a fun way. Routines are fun and fast-moving, which may make them feel less like a workout and more like a social event.
RECESS ClaSSES
Adults who want to feel like kids again need only to enroll in a fitness class that borrows activi-ties from the playgrounds of our youth. From walking like a crab to running drills to balance beams, these workouts take school recess and bring it to the health club.
Issue 1 | V4 Magazine2626 2014 | Magazine
EMBRACE AN ACTIVE OUTDOOR LIFESTYLEBlue skies and warm weather entice people to enjoy the great
outdoors. For many people, few things are more enjoyable than
soaking up some rays and breathing in some fresh air.
Moderate temperatures help make many outdoor activities that much more enjoyable. But even if the weather isn’t perfect, individuals can make the best of the situation and still get out of the house.
As the seasons of warm weather return, those itching to get outside can explore these entertaining outdoor activities.
HIKING
Thousands of miles of hiking trails crisscross North America. These trails include rough and rugged
paths blazed across natural areas and long-distance trails that stretch over portions of the country. From the Appalachian Trail in the East to the Bigfoot Trail in the west, hikers and nature enthusiasts have plenty of trails to tread.
Hiking is a great outdoor activity in part because it can be enjoyed by people of any age and just about any fitness level. Hikers can work up from relatively short and flat trails to more intense vertical and varied hikes. Local parks, government preserves and rural areas offer
plenty of places to walk and hike.
When hiking, it’s best to go in pairs. In the event anything occurs, such as an injury, the other hiker will be able to go for help. Hikers also should alert people at home as to their itineraries. Leave a map and plot out where you will be, especially if hikes take you off the beaten path. Remember to pack a portable snack and plenty of water. And when out in the sun, apply sunscreen and reapply as needed.
BIKING
Biking is another outdoor activity ideal for people of all ages and athletic abilities. Once you’ve learned to ride a bicycle, that ability stays with you, whether you ride a bike each day or haven’t taken one for a spin in years.
Many towns and cities across the country have become much more bike-friendly in recent years,
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clearing space for biking paths and lanes even in the busiest metropolitan areas. And mountain bikers still have plenty of trails to traverse as well.
Check that your bike is in good working order and that the chain is freshly oiled. Take your bike to a local cycling shop for a tuneup if necessary. Verify the fit of helmets, especially on children who may have grown since the most recent cycling season.
HORSEBACK RIDING
Nature takes on an entirely different look when you are atop a horse. Horseback riding isn’t just for country folk or cowboys, and it can be a great workout as well as a recreational retreat. It takes balance, strong legs and quick reflexes to stay in a saddle.
Those interested in horseback riding should visit a stable or riding academy nearby. You likely do not need to own a horse of your own, as riding schools and stables will have animals you can work with.
Remember to wear the right clothing, including long pants and boots, for riding. A hat can shade you from the overhead sun, while a helmet is adviseable for people new to the sport or those who want added protection.
Always arrive early so that you can familiarize yourself with your horse and have him or her get to know you. Approach the horse from the front left side. Horses are prey animals and can be skittish by nature, so a firm, calm greeting can reassure the animal.
These are just a few of the many outdoor activities people can enjoy
when the weather warms up. Try
taking exercise routines outdoors,
such as running on a path instead
of the treadmill. Swimming, walking,
gardening, and sports activities are
other fun ways to enjoy the great
outdoors
28 Issue 1 | V4 Magazine28 Issue 1 | V4 Magazine
E-CIGARETTES AND QUITTING SMOKING There is mixed information regarding the efficacy of e-cigarettes to help a person quit smoking.
Quitting smoking and losing weight
consistently top New Year’s resolutions
lists. In an effort to stop smoking, a
growing number of smokers are turning
to electronic cigarettes, or e-cigarettes, to help
them quit once and for all. Although e-cigarettes
are not currently regulated, the U.S. Food and Drug
Administration is weighing regulations in a market
that estimates suggest could be as big $5 billion in
2015. But are these devices safe? Or even effective?
There is mixed information regarding the efficacy of
e-cigarettes to help a person quit smoking. Some
studies point to e-cigarettes as a good method of
smoking cessation, while others say there’s limited
evidence to support those claims.
E-cigarettes typically contain liquid nicotine, which
is inhaled as vapor. The vapor resembles smoke
and can mimic the look and feel of smoking
traditional cigarettes. But e-cigarettes typically do
not contain any of the additional chemicals, such
as tar and other potentially toxic ingredients, found
in traditional cigarettes. Nicotine cartridges for
e-cigarettes also come in various concentrations
and flavors, and smokers can even purchase
nicotine-free replacement cartridges. Much like
users of nicotine patches or chewers of nicotine
gum, e-cigarette smokers can gradually lower
their nicotine doses over time. The American
Lung Association currently has not approved any
e-cigarette as a safe or effective method to help
smokers quit. They cite a study that estimates there
are nearly 500 different e-cigarette brands today
with varying levels of nicotine and the possible
presence of other chemicals. These e-cigarettes
are unregulated. The ALA says there is a great deal
more to learn about these products before they can
be recommended as a safe and effective way for
smokers to wean themselves off of smoking.
E-cigarettes may contain additional chemicals
besides nicotine. Studies have found detectable
levels of chemicals used in antifreeze in two leading
brands of e-cigarettes. Formaldehyde and benzene
have been detected in some e-cigarette emissions.
Other studies have found secondhand emissions
from e-cigarettes can prove harmful to nonsmokers.
While some organizations do not endorse
e-cigarettes, others state that they shouldn’t be ruled
out just yet. A 2014 study by British researchers and
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released in August 2014, the
American Heart Association said
physicians shouldn’t discourage
e-cigarette use as a last resort
to stop smoking. “If people
cannot quit at all and have tried
everything in the field, we would
not discourage them”, said Aruni
Bhatnager, the statement’s
lead writer. “It’s not something
we would suggest.” The AHA
recommends e-cigarettes only if
smokers refuse or are intolerant
of other options. People who
desire to quit smoking may look
to e-cigarettes to help their fight.
Although the safety and efficacy
of e-cigarettes remains open to
debate, cannot be proven, many
former smokers feel e-cigarettes
played a significant role in helping
them to quit smoking once and
for all.
published in the journal Addiction
found people were 60 percent
more likely to succeed in quitting
smoking using e-cigarettes
compared to would-be quitters
who tried a nicotine patch or
gum. Background information
in the report suggests that,
since the e-cigarette vapor only
contains nicotine and not tobacco
smoke, e-cigarettes may help
reduce cravings and withdrawal
symptoms.
Although some e-cigarettes may
contain harmful byproducts,
toxicity tests indicate they are
safer than regular cigarettes.
Some health experts believe the
benefits of quitting traditional
cigarettes outweigh the risks
posed by e-cigarettes.
The American Heart Association
agrees. In a policy statement
30 Issue 1 | V4 Magazine30 Issue 1 | V4 Magazine
SURPRISE GUESTS WITH HOMEMADE CRÊPESWeekend brunch hosts who want to forgo more familiar fare can spice things up with crêpes, a beloved dish in France that is popular in many other areas of the globe as well.
The following recipe for “Asparagus & Ham Crêpes” from Lou Seibert Pappas’ “Crêpes: Sweet & Savory Recipes for the Home Cook” (Chronicle Books) is a versatile dish that can be made into a vegetarian offering by simply omitting the ham.
Asparagus & Ham CrêpesMakes 8 crêpes
· 8 6- or 7-inch garbanzo flour or savory crêpes (see below)· 11/2 pounds asparagus spears, cut
into 1-inch diagonal lengths· 1 egg· 1 arge sweet white or red onion,
chopped· 3/4 cup ricotta cheese or natural
cream cheese at room temperature· 1/2 cup shredded Gruyére or
Emmenthal cheese· 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan
cheese· 2 garlic cloves, minced· 2 tablespoons minced fresh flat-
leaf parsley· 2 teaspoons minced fresh tarragon
or dill, or 1/2 teaspoon dried tarragon or dill· 2 ounces honey-baked ham or
Black Forest ham, julienned
Prepare the crêpes. Preheat the oven to 350 F. Steam the onion and asparagus in a covered container over boiling water until the asparagus is crisp-tender, about 5 to 7 minutes. In a medium bowl,
beat the egg and mix in the cheeses, garlic, parsley, tarragon or dill, ham, and steamed vegetables.
Spoon 1/2 cup of the filling in a ribbon down the center of each crêpe and roll to enclose. Arrange in a greased 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Bake in the oven for 10 to 15 minutes, or until heated through. Serve at once.
Savory CrêpesMakes 16 to 18, 6- or 7-inch crêpes
· 2 large eggs· 1 cup milk· 1/3 cup water· 1 cup all-purpose flour, preferably
bleached· 1/4 teaspoon salt· 2 tablespoons butter, melted, plus 2
or 3 tablespoons butter for coating the pan
In a blender or food processor, blend the eggs, milk, water, flour, salt, and the 2 tablespoons melted butter for 5 seconds, or until smooth. Stir down and repeat if necessary. Or, to mix by hand, sift the flour into a medium bowl and add the salt. Whisk the eggs until blended, mix in the milk and water and whisk this mixture into the flour and salt; stir in the 2 tablespoons melted butter. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (2 hours is preferable) or up to 24 hours.
Gently stir the batter if it has separated. Heat a seasoned 6- or 7-inch nonstick crêpe pan over medium-high heat until hot. Coat the pan lightly with butter, lift the pan from the heat and pour in 2 or 3 tablespoons of batter, tilting and rotating the pan to coat the surface. Cook until almost dry on top and lightly browned on the edges, about 1 minute. Loosen the edges with a metal spatula and flip the crêpe over using your fingers or the spatula, then cook the other side for about 15 seconds, or until lightly browned. Turn the crêpe out onto a clean tea towel to cool. Repeat with the remaining batter, wiping the pan with butter as needed and stacking the crêpes as they are cooked.
For serving immediately, cover the crêpes with aluminum foil and keep them warm in a preheated 200 F oven. For serving later, wrap them in plastic wrap in quantities intended for each use and slip them in a self-sealing plastic bag. Refrigerate crêpes for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 2 months.
To make garbanzo flour crêpes, follow the savory crêpe recipe, but replace the 1 cup all-purpose flour with 2/3 cup all-purpose flour and 2/3 cup garbanzo flour.
V 4 R E C I P E
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INDIADestination
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Upon arrival into the wonder that is India, one begins to sense a pulsating rhythm that seem-ingly orchestrates the multi-tiered democracy of over one billion inhabitants. Clearly, it is
impossible to look in a single direction and capture all of the colors, sights or sounds emanating from such a di-versified populace. Although the government recognizes Hindi as its Mother tongue, with 30 different languages spoken across the country, English is recognized as India’s second language and most Indians that a traveler will meet speak very proper English.With former palaces reserved for accommodations, exotic varieties of eastern and western cuisine available for one’s dining pleasure and welcomes normally afforded royalty, a journey to India offers remarkable rewards to the willing traveler. Every passing hour is unlike the last and differs from the one to follow. The country simply offers the grandest of touring pleasures, with monu-ments and templesEach of its cities and regions offer dramatically different venues, with their own wealth of historical and cultural treasures. The Taj Mahal, Fatephur Sikri, Red Fort and the river Ganges, the Pink City of Jaipur, the magnifi-cence of the Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur, and the fascinating Jain Temple in Jaisalmer speak to just a few of the remarkable treasures to be found when traveling the country. India never fails to provide the willing traveler with a genuine wealth of touring opportunities. If you have not already claimed the mark of a Traveler, surely it is time.
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