Beware: Shoes Can Be Hazardous to Your Health

Heard of earthing yet? It's all the rage among those who want to be more energetic, grounded, clear, healthy and youthful. Simply place bare feet on sand or a moist patch of grass for at least 10 minutes. Really, that's it. The benefits are truly exceptional -- a strong immune system along with reduced inflammation and cardiovascular disease are just a few of earthing's rewards.

Antioxidants, free radicals and the root of disease

Incredible to think that merely walking barefoot on the earth can heal disease. But Dr. James Oschman, recognized as a top expert of biophysics energy medicine, has shown that the earth is a powerful healing tool. When bare feet connect with the ground, there is a transfer of free electrons from the earth through the skin. These electrons are the most powerful antioxidants known. By scavenging and neutralizing free radicals in the body, antioxidants help to ease inflammation as well as cell and tissue damage. Remember, inflammation is the bane of health -- contributing to everything from heart disease to cancer to diabetes. Free electrons have a negative charge while free radicals are positive -- they cancel each other out. With the advent of rubber soled shoes, we have essentially cut ourselves off from the earth's supply of healing free electrons -- all the while promoting the rise of modern illness.

Discover the Ancient Wisdom and Modern Science Behind Kidney Health

Winter is the season of the kidney according to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It is especially important to tend to these organs during this time. With a measure of proper care and attention, kidney health is strengthened while painful stones and infection are avoided. Through straightforward dietary and lifestyle choices, the kidneys can be kept clear, untroubled and vigorous.

Winter: A season to nourish and rebuild

As observed in traditional Chinese medicine, when the kidneys are unbalanced the emotion of fear arises. The reverse is equally true. When we are in a state of chronic fear or anxiety, the kidneys become depleted. The cold winter months can aggravate the kidneys further -- it is vital to pay particular attention to these organs during this time. Staying warm (especially the feet) while protecting against chills and cold wind encourages harmony within the kidneys. Enjoying soups, stews and seasonal, grounding vegetables like winter squash maintain kidney equilibrium too. Additionally, a brief meditation from The Organ-Emotion Link helps to balance these tiny bean shaped organs as well:

Tree Nut Consumption Lowers Pancreatic Cancer Risk - Research

If you need another excuse to enjoy a handful of your favorite tree nut, new research suggests consumption of nuts can slash the risk of developing pancreatic cancer. Long associated with decreased rates of heart disease and diabetes, researchers at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, along with Harvard Medical School, have now added another compelling reason to include nuts in the diet - namely, cancer prevention.

Tasty snack with substantial benefits

A study published in the British Journal of Cancer found a strong correlation between nuts and lower cancer rates. The study was based on data from the Nurses’ Health Study, which was was analyzed for the nut consumption - including almonds, hazelnuts, macadamias, pecans, cashews, pistachios and hazelnuts - of 75, 680 healthy women. The team discovered that “eating a one-ounce serving of nuts at least twice a week was associated with a lower risk of pancreatic cancer,” reports the Huffington Post. “[The] nut-eaters also tended to weigh less than the non-nut-eaters.” Other factors for pancreatic cancer such as age, height, physical activity, obesity, smoking, diabetes and dietary influences were taken into account and included in the results.