In the serene practice of Tai Chi and Qigong, every single part of your body matters. Not only the major movements but even minor details like where your nose is pointed or where your eyes are directed play a crucial role in your practice. The core premise is to align your body meticulously with these focal points to achieve the ultimate benefits of these ancient practices.

One of the most remarkable benefits of Tai Chi and Qigong is the enhancement of posture. This benefit becomes even more significant when one considers the deteriorating effects our modern lifestyle can have on our posture—shoulders tend to round forward and the chest might cave in over time. Through Tai Chi and Qigong, individuals find a holistic approach to restore and improve their physical alignment.

Understanding Qi: The Life Force Within

A fundamental element of Qigong practice is the concept of Qi. But what is Qi? In essence, Qi is the sum total of all the energy flowing through your body. This...

Read this when healing and emotional well-being begins to feel like an intellectual exercise. We're prompted to read self-help books, watch enlightening videos, and engage in deep discussions. Yet, true healing transcends intellectualization; it requires us to engage with our bodies, placing equal emphasis on physical sensations and emotional introspection.

The Role of Imagery in Mind-Body Medicine

Mind-body medicine isn’t about analyzing our lives with a fine-toothed comb. Instead, it's about employing tools like imagery meditation to foster healing. Visualization allows us to imagine new paths to healing, contrasting with the analytical, left-brain tendencies we often adopt—especially those with backgrounds in engineering or science. In such fields, emotions are frequently intellectualized, offering increased self-awareness yet limited capacity for actual healing. However, real reconciliation with trauma requires more than just intellectual understanding.

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In our fast-paced world, finding time for reflection and healing can be challenging. Yet, the journey towards healing, especially in the realm of trauma, is a path worth traveling. AtTexas Center for Lifestyle Medicine (TCLM), the transformative power of group healing and mind-body practices like Tai Chi and Qigong are helping individuals take monumental steps on their healing journeys.

Many of you might be new to the Texas Center for Lifestyle Medicine community, and with that in mind, let's introduce the person at the forefront of these transformative therapies. Geny Moreno, a mind-body medicine practitioner, shares tools that allow people to manage stress better through breathwork, Tai Chi, Qigong, and various forms of meditation. Her approach underscores the importance of movement and group interactions, setting the stage for deep healing.

Understanding Trauma: Big T and Little t

The concept of trauma often brings to mind significant, life-altering events—what is...

In the complex world of neuroscience, one of the striking revelations is the role of inflammatory proteins in our body and brain. These proteins are an essential part of our body's defense mechanism, working tirelessly to protect us from various threats.

The Body’s Inflammatory Response

Our body is equipped with a variety of inflammatory agents. These agents are part of a sophisticated system designed to counteract inflammation, which often occurs as a response to injury or infection. They identify and target invaders, ensuring that potential threats are quickly neutralized before causing harm.

The Brain’s Unique Inflammatory Proteins

Interestingly, our brain also generates its own set of inflammatory proteins. Unlike those found in the rest of the body, these proteins are somewhat unique. Customized for the brain’s specific needs, they act as vigilant guardians, managing the inflammation that could arise from various neurological stressors.

The Defense Mechanism...

In a recent engaging discussion with experts in physical therapy and holistic health, participants explored the intricate relationship between mental health, physical health, and how the two can often be mistakenly separated in traditional medical practices. This dialogue illuminated the significance of understanding our body's signals and the impact of stress and trauma on our overall well-being.

The Role of Cortisol and Inflammatory Responses

Stress, as many know, can trigger a cascade of physiological responses. One hormone often at the center of this response is cortisol. Commonly known as the "stress hormone," its release can increase inflammation, hinder healing processes, and affect physical therapy outcome. This is particularly true when the stress is chronic, which can lead to tightness and other physical manifestations that challenge the body's healing processes. Understanding these relationships is vital for clinicians aiming to drive progress in physical therapy.

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In today's health discussions, the connection between oral structures and overall well-being is gaining attention. Recent findings have illuminated the vast implications of impaired mouth syndrome—a concept and term coined by Dr. Felix Liao, Airway Mouth Dentist, that highlights the significance of jaw development and its impact on health. Here, we delve into the details explored during a pivotal conversation between Dr. Felix Liao and Dr. Ruan, unraveling how an underdeveloped jaw might be affecting your life in ways you hadn't imagined.

The Connection Between Jaw Development and Health

Your head encloses critical organs like the eyes and brain for a reason, but did you know the development of the jaw is equally essential? The contemporary prevalence of jaw underdevelopment is startling, affecting over 90% of people, yet this issue often goes unnoticed by many healthcare professionals. Modern agricultural practices and lifestyle changes have contributed to a rise in...

 In recent years, researchers have delved deeper into the surprising connections between various health conditions. Among these discoveries is the link between oral health, particularly root canals, and neurological issues like Parkinson's disease. Understanding this connection can offer valuable insights into both prevention and treatment.

Oral Health and the Brain

The human body is an intricate network where seemingly unrelated systems can significantly impact each other. It is observed that certain neurological issues, frequently associated with tremors and Parkinson's, have their roots in oral health. Specifically, the role of failing root canals has come under scrutiny.

The Basal Ganglia and Neurological Impact

When oral health, especially sinus infections or immune reactions, is compromised, it can directly affect crucial brain areas—such as the temporal lobe and brainstem. One focal point of this impact is the basal ganglia, a group of structures linked to movement...

Our Brain Train Group Visits here at TCLM always offer insights into evidence based practices and lifestyle tools for better brain and mental health. Today, Dr. Cheng Ruan's Brain Train group visit session provided valuable insights into the intricate relationship between brain health and skull health. Take a look at some of the key takeaways from the session: 

The Importance of Nasal Breathing

Nasal breathing plays a crucial role in brain health: 

• It helps clear mucus buildup in the sinuses, which can affect brain health.
• 85% of nitric oxide, essential for producing glutathione (an important antioxidant), is made through nasal breathing

The Brain's Defense Mechanism

The brain creates proteins to protect itself from environmental damage: 

• Proteins like Tau and beta-amyloid sequester toxins in the brain.
• These proteins were previously thought to be harmful but are now understood to be protective.

Inhalation Alzheimer's

Dr. Dale Bredesen introduced the...

As we wrap up 2024, we're taking a moment to celebrate the incredible journey we shared during our Type 2 Diabetes Group Visit Program. Under the expert guidance of our Nurse Practitioner, Gardner Mack, participants gained valuable insights into diabetes management while building a supportive community of peers.

Throughout the six-week program, attendees gained many skills, tools, and insights into diabetes management strategies. From mastering blood sugar monitoring to discovering new approaches to nutrition (thanks to our wonderful guest speaker, Registered Dietitian Ruben Lespron), each session brought new learnings and shared insights. The conversations were rich, the support was genuine, and the progress was inspiring.

Introducing Our Plans for this New Year

Building on this success, we're excited to fill you in on some of the group programs we have coming up in the next few months! Our group visits are designed to help you not just set resolutions, but...

Dysautonomia, a disorder of the autonomic nervous system, can affect multiple body systems and present with a wide range of symptoms. In a recent group visit, Dr. Cheng Ruan shared valuable insights on understanding and managing dysautonomia, including Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). 

The Interconnected Nature of Dysautonomia

Dr. Ruan emphasized that dysautonomia is not just a single condition but a pattern affecting various body systems. Many diagnoses, such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, SIBO, tachycardia, chronic lower back pain, and even some rheumatologic conditions, can be different manifestations of the same underlying dysautonomia. 

Physical Alignment and Organ Function

A key aspect of dysautonomia is the relationship between physical alignment and organ function. Hannah, a physical therapist, explained that poor posture and muscle tension, especially in the upper abdomen, can significantly impact digestion and overall autonomic function. This...