Dealing With Stress

We all have stress, it's an inescapable part of life. It's nice, though, to figure out ways to deal with stress that are not self-destructive and harmful (like: overeating, eating unhealthy junk food, overindulging in alcoholic beverages, taking unnecessary or illegal drugs, etc.). So, I though it was interesting that in a recent article of Natural Health magazine, they discussed five popular relaxation methods.

1. MEDITATING (Just 15 to 20 minutes a day of meditation can produce a "relaxation response".)
2. EXERCISING (Exercise releases the feel good brain chemicals, endorphins.)
3. READING (It needs to be material that makes you feel good.)
4. TALKING TO OTHERS (It can help to vent to a true blue friend, one that is supportive.)
5. WATCHING TV (Something that relaxes you. Not the news, or some violent TV program.)

I'm always looking for ways to manage stress or help alleviate it; of course, in a naturally healthy way.

Spotting Skin Cancer

Although, I live in the South, I must admit that I don't really get concerned about sunscreen until the springtime, when the temperatures start to rise and the sunny days are longer. Yet, realistically, the UV rays from the sun are something to be careful of year-round. I notice that more and more emphasis is being put on skin cancer prevention right now, probably because it is summertime. Skin cancer can be a silent killer, so it is very important to know the signs.

One way to check for possible signs of skin cancer is to do a monthly self-exam of beauty marks and moles. If you notice any change in the shape, color, or they start to itch or bleed, it's time to talk to your doctor.

In the June 2007 issue of HEALTH magazine, it had an excellent article on skin cancer, with pictures to show when a mole or beauty mark is something to be concerned about. The link below will take you to a slideshow at www.health.com to help identify an unhealthy mark.

I'm making a concerted effort to make putting on sunscreen a daily necessity before heading outside. It can help protect from wrinkles, sunburn, and skin cancer too.

Introduction - Why Do This Blog?

I enjoy reading about issues of health and nutrition, and will use this blog to share pertinent information I have read or heard that maybe of interest to others.