Coping with Psychological and Emotional Effects of Cancer on Patients and Their Families – The Mind-Body Connection

WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share For thousands of years, traditional healing systems such as those in Chinese medicine have embraced the role of the mind in the treatment and healing of diseases. Fast forward to the last century, we are now witnessing the same paradigm shift in western medicine along with a growing body of empirical science that is in support of this holistic approach towards healthcare. The attention to the mind-body connection is especially relevant in the treatment of cancer because the disease creates intense physical, psychological, and emotional pressure for the patient and their loved ones. Although less often talked about, the psychological and emotional effects of cancer can oftentimes be as overwhelming and debilitating as its physical toll. Emotional Effects of Cancer on Patients Before, during and after treatment, cancer patients are likely to experience a wide range of emotions that are foreign to them; feelings such as being out of control, anger, denial, sadness, fear, guilt, and helplessness. While these feelings are all normal, they can be unpleasant to experience. They can also be intense, and emotions can change rapidly by the day, the hour, or even minute to minute, possibly causing the patient to feel overwhelmed. Emotional Effects of Cancer on Families Family and friends of cancer patients may also experience these intense and complex emotional effects of cancer, depending on the closeness of each relationship. Sudden changes in roles, responsibilities, physical and emotional needs, as well as future plans, can cause feelings of isolation, insecurity, sadness, frustration, anger, and even resentment. For some families, facing the challenges of cancer together can strengthen their relationship. For others, the struggle to cope with the complicated emotions and lifestyle changes can lead them to experience intense and chronic psychological stress, which in turn, may create new problems and worsen existing ones. How do Our Minds and Body React to Stress? Psychological stress, or simply stress, is what we feel when we are under physical, mental, or emotional pressure. When we are under stress, our brain releases stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol in the body. These hormones help us get ready to respond to stress, whether it is to run, fight, or even freeze. While small amounts of stress can be beneficial and healthy to us, excessive and long-term stress keeps the body trapped in a constant state of tension, also known as “fight or flight” mode. This often develops into physical and mental health problems. Image 1. Physical effects of long-term stress include a weaker immune system, and a greater risk of heart attacks, diabetes, and mental health disorders like depressive or anxiety disorders. In cancer patients, long-term psychological stress may influence a cancerous tumour’s ability to grow and spread, and may even affect cancer outcomes [2][3] In contrast, cancer patients who are able to manage their stressors are less at risk of developing depressive disorders, neurotic and adjustment disorders, and substance use disorders, which in turn significantly reduces their risk of premature death. [4][5] The same goes for families and caregivers of cancer patients. Partners of cancer patients, in particular, are expected to bear a large proportion of the stressors and burdens that follow in the course of cancer and are often at greater risk of these negative health outcomes. [6] Specifically, cancer caregiving has been related to increased blood pressure, dysregulation of the autonomic nervous system, hypothalamic-pituitary–axis dysregulation, immune changes, and poor health-related behaviours. Those who are able to use effective coping strategies to manage their stressors, such as relaxation and stress management techniques, are more likely to experience decreased caregiver burden, decreased depression, and better adjustment. What You Can Do to Cope with Stress To quote Nido Qubein, “Your present circumstances don’t determine where you can go; they merely determine where you start.” If you identify as part of this vulnerable population, then it is important to note that self-care and adequate coping and emotion regulation skills are necessary for the preservation of your health and well-being. Moving forward, the following coping strategies may serve to provide some desired relief. 1) Training in relaxation techniques, and stress management Cancer and its treatment put your body under constant stress and inflammation. Likewise, excessive stress from caregiving duties can result in compassion fatigue and poorer quality of living for caregivers and families of cancer patients. In such instances, mind-body relaxation techniques such as the Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT; Image 2) and Tension Release Exercise (TRE; Image 3) can be beneficial in maintaining mental health. By releasing excess stress and tension through EFT and/or TRE you can help support your body’s proper physiological and psychological function. Image 2. EFT relies on fingertip tapping to apply pressure on 9 meridian points to reduce the stress or negative emotion you feel from your stressor, ultimately restoring balance to your disrupted energy. [7] Image 3. Tension and Trauma Release Exercise (TRE) is a somatic-based approach comprised of a series of exercises that safely stimulates your psoas muscles – these muscles are where we often store physical, emotional, and psychological stress in our bodies over the course of our lives. The shaking, or neurogenic tremors, can result in a release of deep tension, stress, and trauma, which helps the body to return back to a state of balance. [8] EFT and TRE interventions are especially good for when You are stressed and anxious You don’t feel like talking about your stress Have difficulty sleeping Would like a way to support mind-body-spirit wellness 2) Talk therapy Negative thoughts and emotions can create stress in our lives by affecting the way we feel, and colouring our experiences so that many other things that we experience seem more overwhelming. Talk therapy, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy have been consistently found to be effective in the treatment of severe stress. [9][10] However, you don’t need to be experiencing severe stress

Top 30 Foods You Should Eat To Boost Your Fertility

WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share Optimise your diet for better fertility In general, a myriad of reasons can affect fertility, ranging from age to other reproductive issues. While many of these factors are out of our control, one key factor that we can control is our diet and lifestyle. In a study conducted in the United States of America (USA), participants who have followed a combination of five or more low-risk lifestyle factors, including diet, physical activity and weight management have shown to significantly reduce ovulatory disorder infertility [1]. While there is no specific food or fertility diet that can miraculously guarantee conception, eating a nutritious and well-balanced diet will definitely improve your overall well-being and in turn, boost your reproductive health. In this article, we will list the top 30 foods that you can incorporate into your fertility diet. Everyday food that can boost fertility for both male and female Walnuts Walnuts are a great source of alpha-linolenic acid, a type of Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) in plants. For males, Omega-3 PUFAs are crucial for sperm maturation and membrane function, while for females, they have been shown to have a positive impact on fertility, potentially via improving oocyte quality and embryo implantation. Walnuts are also rich in magnesium, which is necessary for the production of progesterone and maintaining a good blood supply to the womb, both of which helps prepare the womb for pregnancy. How to eat: You can choose to take a handful of walnuts as a snack or add them to your salads, chicken, or oatmeal as a nutritional crunch. Eggs Eggs, especially the egg yolks, are loaded with many essential nutrients such as iron, calcium, zinc, Vitamin B6, folate, Vitamin B12 and Vitamin A. Eggs from pasture-raised chickens are also packed with fertility-boosting Omega-3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which studies have shown to potentially prolong certain reproductive functions into advanced maternal age [2]. How to eat: You can choose to eat eggs in many different ways: hard-boiled, soft-boiled, scrambled, poached etc., but remember to eat the whole egg with the yolk included. Pomegranates Rich in antioxidants, pomegranates have shown to be beneficial to both female and male fertility. For females, antioxidants can stimulate the uterus by improving blood flow to the womb as well as promote healthy uterine lining for implantation. As for males, antioxidants can improve sperm quality. Pomegranates are also rich in important vitamins such as Vitamin C and E, and folic acid, all of which are beneficial when trying to conceive. How to eat: You can eat the pomegranate seeds as a healthy snack, or even drink pomegranate juice. Ideally, take ½ to 1 cup of pomegranate juice occasionally. Take note that pomegranates may interact with certain medications, like blood thinners, so consult your doctor or physician first before incorporating it into your diet. Citrus fruits (Oranges, Grapefruits) Citrus fruits are a great source of Vitamin C, which can help boost fertility and hormone levels in females, as well as improve males’ sperm count and quality. Grapefruits and oranges also contain polyamine putrescine, which has been associated with the potential to improve egg and semen health. How to eat: Enjoy orange slices on their own, or you can incorporate citrus fruit juices into your smoothies. Take caution that grapefruit juice can interact with certain medications, so speak to your doctor to check whether grapefruit juice is suitable for you. Pomelo Pomelos are rich in Vitamin C, which not only helps boost the immune system but also helps in boosting fertility and hormone levels. Vitamin C also enhances sperm count, sperm motility and sperm quality, which in turn ensures higher chances of conception. Pomelos are also packed with other fertility-boosting nutrients such as potassium, calcium and Vitamin B, which can help regulate ovulation and create a favourable environment for the ovulating eggs. How to eat: You can simply enjoy pomelos as a fruit snack. Pineapple Pineapples are a great source of Vitamin C. A 1 cup serving of pineapples will provide 46% of your daily recommended Vitamin C levels. Low Vitamin C levels have been associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), and so it is vital to reach your daily recommended intake of Vitamin C. Pineapples also contain the natural enzyme bromelain, which has anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation may impede fertility, and chronic inflammation can even encourage the body to suppress ovulation. Taking bromelain can encourage the immune system to deviate from an inflammatory state. How to eat: Opt for fresh pineapples whenever possible, as most of the bromelain is destroyed in canned pineapples due to the heat in the canning process. You can choose to eat it fresh or even grilled. Take note not to over-consume pineapples, as they can lead to increased uterine contractions. Blueberries Blueberries are not only high in Vitamin C and folic acid, both of which are essential fertility boosting nutrients, they are also packed with antioxidants. Antioxidants help in reducing damage to reproductive cells that are caused by environmental toxins and “free radicals”, thereby ensuring reproductive cells are healthy and functioning normally to boost fertility. How to eat: You can just take a handful of blueberries to enjoy as a snack, or add them to your salads, smoothies, or yoghurt. Sunflower seeds Roasted, unsalted sunflower seeds are packed with Vitamin E, which have been shown to help boost sperm count and motility. Sunflower seeds are also loaded with Omega-6 fatty acids and a small amount of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to impact fertility positively. Additionally, they are packed with other fertility-boosting nutrients such as zinc, folate and selenium. How to eat: You can take sunflower seeds as a snack, or add them to your food for additional flavour and crunch. Mature cheeses Mature cheeses, such as aged cheddar and parmesan are high in polyamines, which play an important role in our reproductive system.

So you’ve booked your first Electro-Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (ELT) appointment. What next?

WE COMBINE THE WISDOM OF TRADITIONAL CHINESE MEDICINE, MODERN TECHNOLOGY, AND PATIENT-CENTERED CARE FOR YOU TO THRIVE IN TODAY’S FAST-PACED WORLD. Share First of all, congratulations! You’ve just secured your first step towards taking charge of your wellness and to help yourself #feelbetterfaster. As this is your first experience with Electro-Lymphatic Drainage Therapy (ELT) and you may not be sure what to expect, so we are here to help! Read on to find out more about lymphatic health, how ELT can benefit you and what to expect in your first ELT session. Why did your Physician recommend ELT to you? Having a healthy smooth-flowing lymphatic system is an important building block to optimal wellness! Hence, ELT is recommended whether you are looking to improve your general wellness or you have a serious chronic condition. To grow strong and healthy like a big tree, a smooth lymphatic system helps you to build strong roots, to detoxify effectively and to improve your immune function. What is the lymphatic system and what does it do? The lymphatic system is a huge network of tissues and organs that help the body get rid of unwanted materials. Its main function is the transport of lymph, a fluid containing white blood cells which help the body fight infections. The lymphatic system works with the circulatory system to help the body get rid of toxins in a process more commonly known as detoxification. The main functions of the lymphatic system can be summarized into three big aspects: Maintain a healthy immune system to detect health issues (important for all of us in this current global situation but particularly important for patients with cancer and auto-immune conditions) Clear toxins from the body Maintain balance of body fluids by facilitating the return of fluids to the heart Our lymphatic system is closely tied to detoxification and the maintenance of a healthy cellular environment. When there is congestion in the lymph system, cellular detox tends to decrease, leading to waste accumulation and less optimal nutritional absorption by cells. Over time, this can result in cell malnourishment and poor health. This phenomenon is like having a “choked or congested sink” at the cellular level. Over time, the body becomes prone to sickness as toxins accumulate and cells become less able to fight diseases. What causes lymphatic congestion? Lymphatic congestion occurs as a result of various reasons, including lifestyle and non-lifestyle factors such as the below: These factors result in poor lymphatic drainage which could lead to dire consequences like poor health, compromised immunity or even lymphedema (swelling due to excess fluids in tissues). How does ELT help? Electro-Lymphatic DrainageTherapy (ELT) is an FDA-approved, non-invasive technology that helps to stimulate proper flow and drainage of the Lymphatic System. It makes use of a combination of vibrational, light, and electrical waves to stimulate the lymphatic flow via the dissociation of proteins that have been trapped in the interstitium. While the surface technique is patterned after Manual Lymphatic Drainage Massage, ELT can promote lymphatic drainage at a deeper level and in a less amount of time. The relaxing and pain-free therapy makes it an excellent choice for individuals looking to improve their health without compromising on comfort. How does ELT work? ELT machines are equipped with glass probes that contain inert gases Argon, Krypton and Xenon. The ionization of these gases produces energy and ions which penetrate the lymph system to break down protein and wastes. This process is what contributes to detoxification and helps promote lymphatic drainage at the lymph nodes. During the therapy, the therapist will glide the probes in line with the body’s natural lymphatic flow to promote the movement of lymph fluid towards lymph nodes for drainage. The ELT machine operates at 10 levels: 0 to 9. The lower the level, the deeper the inert gases are able to penetrate, which allows congestion in deeper parts of the body to be cleared. During the first session, therapists will usually start around level 6 – 9 in order to start clearing from the more superficial levels of the lymphatic system. Once congestion is deemed to be cleared at a level, the therapist will move down to the next level in the following session. There are 3 ways to tell when the lymph system is congested: Resistance when the probe moves along the skin surface Lack of sound Presence of ‘detox’ smell (we let you experience this when you come!) When one or more of the above is present, the area is deemed to be congested. The therapist will likely spend more time attempting to decongest the area, which usually coincides with the area of concern. In general, it takes about 1 – 2 sessions to move down a level, but depending on the patient’s condition and body constitution, it may take more than 20 sessions to reach level 0. As such, patients are recommended to do ELT sessions once per week to ensure continuity of progress until the lymphatic health is restored to its peak (i.e. level 0). The Process Before starting your first ELT session, you would have to undergo a consultation process with our Physicians for assessment of condition. The physician will then advise on the suitability of ELT treatment before handing you over to our friendly therapist who has been pre-briefed regarding your condition. As every patient’s concerns are different, this process will ensure that ELT is suitable for you and that you are able to reap maximum health benefits from the treatment. Then, your therapist will lead you to a private ELT room for a briefing on the procedure and what to expect during the treatment. As ELT requires direct contact between the electro-lymphatic probes and the skin, you will be asked to remove your clothes (except for their underwear) and jewellery (if any). Female and male patients will be served by our female and male therapists respectively. As the ELT treatment lasts at least 60 minutes, you are encouraged to visit the washroom before the