"HOW TO HEAL A BROKEN CHRISTMAS?"

 

With having had two teenage boys who loved football, there was one Christmas gift that was a sure hit – a new leather football! And seeing how it was a rare 60-degree Christmas morning, do you think the guys were going to just sit around the Christmas tree and admire that ball? Absolutely not! They went right outside and did what you’re supposed to do with a football! Play Football!

Here they were, Pastor Ron and his boys – the three men of the house – running quickly out of the house, out into the middle of the street, passing that football back and forth. 

Then it happened…Pastor Ron went back for a long one; the pass was heading straight to him! And he caught it! However, he caught it right on the end of his little finger! The emergency room? Yeah, that’s not exactly where you want to spend a huge chunk of your Christmas time, but that’s exactly where Pastor Ron was, and with a special souvenir of that Christmas – a broken finger! I believe Pastor Ron will agree; it’s no fun having something Broken, especially  during Christmas!

And it’s far worse, if what’s broken is a relationship you really care about, or your family is broken, or your heart is broken, your joy is broken, your peace is broken, your trust has been broken, your loyalty has been broken. In fact, all the “joy to the world” around you just seems to make the hurt even worse! And often the Christmas Season has a tendency to bring painful reminders of the things and people that have hurt us the most, and broken us to pieces! A mother who walked away and never came back; a father who passed away; a marriage that ended; a child that left home; a doctor’s sad report; the loss of a job after 20 years; the senseless loss of a friends life; a relationship that’s beyond repair…and the list could go on forever. 

Well, you need to know that the One whose ‘birthday’ we’re celebrating knows about what’s broken and He knows how much it’s hurting you. He cares about that pain, He cares about your loneliness, and more importantly, He truly understands!


Remember, this Jesus who we celebrate this Christmas was, in the words of the Bible, a “man of sorrows and familiar with suffering” (Isaiah 53:3). The Amplified Bible says it like this: “He was despised and rejected and forsaken by men, a Man of sorrows and pains, and acquainted with grief and sickness; and like One from Whom men hide their faces He was despised, and we did not appreciate His worth or have any esteem for Him.” (AMP) The Contemporary English Bible says it like this: “He was hated and rejected; his life was filled with sorrow and terrible suffering. No one wanted to look at him. We despised him and said, “He is a nobody!” (CEB)

JESUS was misunderstood, despised, rejected, forsaken, hated, filled with sorrows, pain, grief, sickness and terrible suffering, abandoned, betrayed, falsely accused, and even mocked, spat upon, pierced and put to death! So, in case you feel as if no one knows how you feel; no one can identify with your brokenness, rest assured, JESUS KNOWS, JESUS CARES AND JESUS UNDERSTANDS!

While everyone around you may be celebrating and totally unaware of how you’re hurting, please know that Jesus is moving close to you today, and He wants to do something very powerful for you this Christmas…And That’s to Heal What’s Broken!

I know this may sound like a depressing devotional, however, believe it or not, far too many are dreading this Christmas! Truth is, someone, somewhere will cry this Christmas, will be alone this Christmas, will feel left, rejected and abandoned this Christmas. Someone will commit suicide this Christmas. Someone will throw in the towel on life for good this Christmas. Someone, somewhere is wondering “what do I have to celebrate this Christmas?…he left me…she doesn’t love me…he died…she’s sick…what could I possibly have to celebrate?”

That’s why I think He’s led me to remind someone today: “The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit” (Psalm 34:18). 

For further encouragement, let’s look at that same Scripture in various translations:


“The Lord is near to those who are discouraged; he saves those who have lost all hope.” (GNT); 

“The Lord is there to rescue all who are discouraged and have given up hope.” (CEV); 

“The Lord is close to the brokenhearted, and he saves those whose spirits have been crushed.” (NCV). 


However, my favorite is: “If your heart is broken, you’ll find God right there; if you’re kicked in the gut, he’ll help you catch your breath.” (MSG) 

In your brokenness is where you’ll find God right there! Now that’s encouragement! Because most people don’t want to be around someone who’s broken. Why? Because they know it will only be a time of tears, complaining, sob stories, self-pity parties, retelling of the same hurtful scripts over and over again. They know it will be a time spent in sorrow, pain, regret, hurt, rejection, and ‘why me’? chants. Who wants to hang around that, especially during the holidays? But Jesus is a friend that sticks closer than a brother! He could care less about any of that, He’s not leaving your side, nor is He turning a deaf ear to you, nor will He leave you there broken. After all, He is the mender of broken hearts! So, wherever you find yourself broken today, know that Jesus is Right There, even if no one else is! You my friend are on the verge of being mended!

The second part of that says this: “…if you’re kicked in the gut, he’ll help you catch your breath.” Truth is, life can hit you so hard it makes you double over in pain, with the breath knocked right out of you! But isn’t it awesome how God is ever present to give you your second wind?! That term ‘second wind’, has a few definitions but the one I’ll use here is, “a new strength or energy to continue something that is an effort.’ When God gives you a second wind it’s ‘new strength and energy to continue something that is an effort.’ And let’s be honest, trying to recover from brokenness takes effort! Pain and hurt has a way of weakening you to such a state that if God doesn’t supply the strength, you’ll never bounce back! Which is why sharing our weakness with God and waiting on His strength is so vital! 2 Corinthians 12:9, “but He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you [My lovingkindness and My mercy are more than enough—always available—regardless of the situation]; for [My] power is being perfected [and is completed and shows itself most effectively] in [your] weakness.” Therefore, I will all the more gladly boast in my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ [may completely enfold me and] may dwell in me.” (AMP) See, your weakness can’t destroy His strength, in fact, it’s what supplies it to you and for you! So be encouraged today, God is Right There and He’s Supplying You With Strength and a Second Wind, You Shall Recover, You Shall Bounce Back, You Shall Heal!


JESUS LOVES YOU; HE CARES THAT YOU’RE HURTING; HE’S THERE AND WANTS TO HELP HEAL YOUR BROKENNESS…ALL YOU HAVE TO DO IS…LET HIM!

“Now that we know what we have—Jesus, this great High Priest with ready access to God—let’s not let it slip through our fingers. We don’t have a priest who is out of touch with our reality. He’s been through weakness and testing, experienced it all—all but the sin. So let’s walk right up to him and get what he is so ready to give. Take the mercy, ACCEPT THE HELP” (Hebrews 4:14-16 MSG). The word ‘accept’ is defined as, ‘to agree to receive or undertake something offered or proposed; to regard favorably or with approval.’ Its Latin origin ‘acceptare’, from ‘capere’, literally means ‘to take.’ People of God, it’s not that God hasn’t offered His help, the problem is we haven’t accepted it! Which makes absolutely no sense, since the word itself means ‘to take’! Therefore, today, Take the help God is offering to heal you and help you mend every broken area of your life. Don’t Focus so much on your Hurt that you lose Sight of His Help!

In Isaiah 61:1, the Son of God says, “The Lord has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted.” The Amplified Bible says it like this: “The Spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed and qualified me to preach the Gospel of good tidings to the meek, the poor, and afflicted; He has sent me to bind up and heal the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the [physical and spiritual] captives and the opening of the prison and of the eyes to those who are bound”

HE REALLY IS THE FIXER OF BROKEN HEARTS, AND BROKEN LIVES, AND BROKEN PEOPLE! How do I know? THE WORD OF GOD SAID SO, AND THE WORD OF GOD CAN’T LIE!

So if this Christmas Your Battling With Brokenness, Simply Lean On the One Who Has Been Charged to Bind Up the Brokenhearted…His Names Is JESUS!
Let Him Mend You and Make You Whole Again! After all, isn’t that a part of the Reason we celebrate Him this Season? The Son of God Coming to Seek and Save; Heal and Deliver? Surely this season has to mean more than trees, tinsel, lights, Santa, candy canes, egg nog, and gifts? After all, this season is the celebration of the ONLY ONE who Sacrificed His life so He could grant us Eternal Life. Surely LIFE that grants an ETERNAL GIFT means more than standing in LINES that grant only a TEMPORARY ONE?! Christmas is more than pretty wrapped boxes with bows, it’s a time to remember the Christ Who was Broken to Mend the Broken. No matter what sale/discount you receive at the store; nothing will ever be able to equal that value/worth! 

Psalm 147:3, “He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds [healing their pain and comforting their sorrow].” (AMP) I know what happened may have broken your heart, but don’t let it stop it from beating! God is there ready and willing to heal the brokenhearted and to bind up their wounds; to heal their pain and comfort their sorrow, so why suffer in silence, when His arms are open wide; His eyes are focused on you; His ears are open to your voice; His heart is filled with unconditional love for you; and He simply cannot wait to heal every ounce of your brokenness!

Remember: No Matter What Is Broken, Where It Broke, How Long and How Bad It’s Been Broken, Why It Broke, When It Broke or Who Broke It…He Can…and He Will Bind the Broken…Just Trust Him and Accept His Help to Heal! And this Broken Christmas May Just Prove to be Your Very Best Christmas Yet!

Remember the REASON not the RECEIPTS of This Christmas! He Came to Save, and that Includes Saving You from Suffering the Pain of Remaining Broken! Be Healed Today, Be Well Today, Be Happy Today, Be Made Whole Today!

“Christianity is the only hope for this broken world because there’s no other way for the broken to get the nails they need to rebuild.” (Author Unknown)

“Jesus came to heal everything in your life that’s broken and to restore everything the enemy has taken.” (Joyce Meyer)

“Broken things and broken people are the result of sin. Yet God sent His Son to be broken that we might be healed.” (Author Unknown)

“Lord, enlighten what’s dark in me; strengthen what’s weak in me; mend what’s broken in me; bind what’s bruised in me; heal what’s sick in me and lastly revive whatever peace and love has died in me.” (Author Unknown)

“God can heal a broken heart. But you need to give Him all the pieces.” (Author Unknown)

“God uses broken things. It takes broken soil to produce a crop, broken clouds to give rain, broken grain to give bread, broken bread to give strength. It is the broken alabaster box that gives forth perfume. It is Peter, weeping bitterly, who returns to greater power than ever.” (Vance Havner)

“Its so much easier to let God heal your broken heart than trying to do it in your own ability and strength. It’s not your job. Jesus is the healer of broken hearts.” (Author Unknown)

“God’s Healing Hand: If you have a mountain of pain before you or you’re lost in a cold valley of shadowy doubt, know that God’s healing hand is there to mend your broken heart and an angel’s smile is always looking over your shoulder to guide you with heavenly hope” (Robert Clancy)

“God knows the burdens you carry and the tears you shed. He is the healer of broken hearts, broken dreams, and broken lives. Trust Him. He never fails.” (Pastor John Hagee)

“Not to Self: Healing is NOT an overnight process. It takes time. Sometimes you’ll feel like you’re finally over something and happy again, and then unexpectedly the wound will reopen. But don’t give up and don’t get discouraged. Take each day one step at a time. Just try to be in a better place mentally and emotionally than you were yesterday.” (Author Unknown)

Much Love, Dr.Shermaine, #InformativeRead #PleaseShare #HealthyBodySoulAndSpirit #FeelFree2SignUpAndFollow #BeEncouraged #BeEmpowered #BeChallenged #BeInspired #BeHealed

The Goal is to Always Make You Aware of What Concerns Your Body, Soul and Spirit, So You Can Have Open, Honest and Frequent Discussions With Your Physicians and Counselors. You Can’t Treat or Cure What You Don’t Know is Sick.
 
"It's Not Selfish to Love Yourself, Take Care of Yourself and to Make Your Happiness a Priority. It's a Necessity." (Mandy Hale)

"Self-Care is Not Selfish. You Cannot Serve From an Empty Vessel." (Eleanor Brown)

"What to Know About 4-7-8 Breathing?"

 

The 4-7-8 breathing technique is based on pranayama breathing exercises. Pranayama is the ancient yogic practice of controlling your breath. These types of mindful breathing exercises have been shown to have many benefits for stress reduction and relaxation. The 4-7-8 breathing technique was developed by Dr. Andrew Weil. He refers to it as a "natural tranquilizer for the nervous system."

How to Practice 4-7-8 Breathing?

You can practice 4-7-8 breathing anywhere and at any time. When you're first learning, try to practice at least twice a day, but you can do it as often as you want. Only do it for four cycles in a row in the beginning. After you get used to it, you can work up to eight cycles. You may feel lightheaded at first, but this will pass. 

1. Find a comfortable place to sit with your back straight. 
2. Place your tongue against the back of your top teeth and keep it there. 
3. Exhale completely through your mouth around your tongue, making a whoosh sound. Purse your lips if it helps. 
4. Close your lips and inhale through your nose for a count of four.
5. Hold your breath for a count of seven.
6. Exhale completely through your mouth making a whoosh sound for a count of eight. 
7. This completes one cycle. Repeat for three more cycles.

Do 4-7-8 breathing anytime you feel stressed. It will become more powerful as you use it. Practice doing it before you respond to an upsetting situation and whenever you're having trouble getting to sleep. 

Benefits of Deep, Slow Breathing"

Mindful breathing practices such as 4-7-8 breathing can produce what Harvard cardiologist Dr. Herbert Benson called the relaxation response. You have a natural stress response that's designed to help you deal with dangerous situations. This fight-or-flight response can help you survive but can take a toll on your health when it's overused for everyday stresses. 

This stress response suppresses your immune system and can cause other health problems, including high blood pressure, depression, and anxiety. The relaxation response interrupts this stress response with a profound sense of rest. 

Other benefits may include:

Reduced anxiety. A study of college students showed that practicing pranayama reduced test anxiety in students. Another study of senior citizens showed decreased anxiety after two months of deep breathing exercises. 

Lower blood pressure. Slow deep breathing for five minutes has been shown to reduce blood pressure and heart rate in people who practice it. 

Improved sleep. One of the negative side effects of stress can be trouble sleeping. It can be almost impossible to fall asleep when your body is caught up in the stress response. Practicing deep, slow breathing techniques such as 4-7-8 breathing can trigger your body's relaxation response and help you get to sleep.

Less pain. A study of 16 healthy people found that those who practiced relaxed deep breathing experienced less pain than those who practiced deep breathing that required a lot of sustained attention. Both groups experienced less tension, anger, and depression. 

Improved concentration. A 2017 study examined the effect of eight weeks of deep, slow, abdominal breathing on attention, emotions, and stress levels. After training, the people in the deep breathing group performed better on tests of attention and had fewer negative emotions.

How Deep, Slow Breathing Affects Your Body?

The sort of deep breathing practiced as part of the 4-7-8 breathing technique helps calm your body by activating your parasympathetic nervous system. Your body's automatic functions, such as your heartbeat and digestion, are controlled by your autonomic nervous system. This system has two parts, the sympathetic nervous system and the parasympathetic nervous system. 

The sympathetic nervous system controls your body's stress response. The parasympathetic nervous system controls your body's rest and relaxation response. When you activate one of these, you suppress the other. This is why deep breathing is so effective at causing the relaxation response. 

The 4-7-8 breathing technique is one method of deep breathing that you can use to reap all of these benefits. However, the particular method you use doesn't matter. If the 4-7-8 method doesn't work well for you, you can try another. You should experience the relaxation response with any breathing method that is slow and deep.  

Medically Reviewed by Gabriela Pichardo, MD, on June 27, 2023 

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

SOURCES:

Arizona Center for Integrative Medicine: "4-7-8 Breath Relaxation Exercise."

Frontiers in Psychology: "The Effect of Diaphragmatic Breathing on Attention, Negative Affect and Stress in Healthy Adults," "Self-Regulation of Breathing as an Adjunctive Treatment of Insomnia."

Harvard Health Publishing: "Relaxation techniques: Breath control helps quell errant stress response."

International Journal of Yoga: "The effect of pranayama on test anxiety and test performance."

Nepal Medical College Journal: "Immediate effect of a slow pace breathing exercise Bhramari pranayama on blood pressure and heart rate."

Pain Medicine: "The Effect of Deep and Slow Breathing on Pain Perception, Autonomic Activity, and Mood Processing—An Experimental Study."

Right as Rain: "This Is Why Deep Breathing Makes You Feel so Chill."

Much Love, Dr.Shermaine, #InformativeRead #PleaseShare #HealthyBodySoulAndSpirit #IWantYou2LiveWell #FeelFree2SignUpAndFollow

The Goal is to Always Make You Aware of What Concerns Your Body, Soul and Spirit, So You Can Have Open, Honest and Frequent Discussions With Your Physicians and Counselors. You Can’t Treat or Cure What You Don’t Know is Sick.
 
"It's Not Selfish to Love Yourself, Take Care of Yourself and to Make Your Happiness a Priority. It's a Necessity." (Mandy Hale)

"Self-Care is Not Selfish. You Cannot Serve From an Empty Vessel." (Eleanor Brown)

The contents of the WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine Sites, such as text, graphics, images, and other material contained on the WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine Sites ("Content") are for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine Sites!

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned on the Sites. Reliance on any information provided by WebMD, WebMD employees, others appearing on the Site at the invitation of WebMD, and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine or other visitors to the Sites is solely at your own risk.  

"Foods That May Help With Muscle Cramps"

 

EAT TO BEAT THEM: Muscle cramps happen when your muscles tense up and you can’t relax them. While painful, usually you can treat them yourself. Exercise, dehydration, and menstruation are common causes. One way to stop cramps is to stretch or massage your muscles and to eat enough of these key nutrients: potassium, sodium, calcium, and magnesium. They’re called electrolytes, and you can find them in the following foods.

BANANAS, A TIME TESTED TREATMENT: You probably know that bananas are a good source of potassium. But they’ll also give you magnesium and calcium. That’s three out of four nutrients you need to ease muscle cramps tucked under that yellow peel. No wonder bananas are a popular, quick choice for cramp relief. 

SWEET RELIEF FROM SWEET POTATOES: Like bananas, sweet potatoes give you potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Sweet potatoes get the win because they have about six times as much calcium as bananas. And it’s not just sweet potatoes: Regular potatoes and even pumpkins are good sources of all three nutrients. Plus, potatoes and pumpkins naturally have a lot of water in them, so they can help keep you hydrated, too.

AVOCADOS, A POTASSIUM POWERHOUSE: One creamy, green berry (yes, it's really a berry!) has about 975 milligrams of potassium, twice as much as a sweet potato or banana. Potassium is important because it helps your muscles work and keeps your heart healthy. So swap out mayo on a sandwich with mashed avocado, or slice one onto your salad to help keep muscle cramps away. They have a lot of fat and calories, so keep that in mind.

BEANS AND LENTILS: Legumes like beans and lentils are packed with magnesium. One cup of cooked lentils has about 71 milligrams of magnesium, and a cup of cooked black beans has almost double that with 120 milligrams. Plus, they’re high in fiber, and studies show that high-fiber foods can help ease menstrual cramps as well as help control your blood sugar and lower levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol.

MELONS ARE THE TOTAL PACKAGE: These fruits have it all: loads of potassium, a good amount of magnesium and calcium, a little sodium, and a lot of water. Sodium and water are key because as you exercise, your body flushes sodium out with your sweat. If you lose too much water, you’ll get dehydrated, and muscle cramps may happen. Eating a cup of cubed cantaloupe after a workout can help.

WATERMELON FOR HYDRATION: They’re about 90% water, so when you need foods that hydrate, a cup of watermelon will do it. Since it’s a melon, it’s also high in potassium, but not quite as high as others.

MILK: It’s a natural source of electrolytes like calcium, potassium, and sodium. It’s good for hydration. And it’s packed with protein, which helps repair muscle tissue after workouts. All of the above can help protect against muscle cramps.

PICKLE JUICE: Some athletes swear by pickle juice as a fast way to stop a muscle cramp. They believe it’s effective because of the high water and sodium content. But that might not be the case. While pickle juice may help relieve muscle cramps quickly, it isn’t because you’re dehydrated or low on sodium. It is more likely because the pickle juice sets off a reaction in your nervous system that stops the cramp, according to recent research.

DARK, LEAFY GREENS: They’re rich in calcium and magnesium. So adding kale, spinach, or broccoli to your plate may help prevent muscle cramps. Eating leafy greens also may help with menstruation cramps, as studies show eating foods high in calcium can help relieve pain from periods.

ORANGE JUICE: One cup of refreshing OJ has plenty of water for hydration. It’s also a potassium star with nearly 500 milligrams per cup. Orange juice has 27 milligrams of calcium and magnesium. Choose a calcium-fortified brand for an extra boost. 

SNACK SMART WITH NUTS AND SEEDS: Like beans and lentils, nuts and seeds are a great source of magnesium. For example, 1 ounce of toasted sunflower seeds has about 37 milligrams of magnesium. And 1 ounce of roasted, salted almonds has double that. Many types of nuts and seeds have calcium and magnesium as well.

SALMON FOR CIRCULATION: Sometimes muscle cramps are the result of poor blood flow. Eating oily fish like salmon can help improve it. Plus, a 3-ounce portion of cooked salmon has about 326 milligrams of potassium and 52 milligrams of sodium to help with muscle cramps. Not a salmon fan? You also could try trout or sardines.

TAP INTO TOMATOES JUICE AND ALL: Tomatoes are high in potassium and water content. So if you gulp down 1 cup of tomato juice, you’ll get about 15%  of your daily value of potassium. You’ll also give your body hydration to prevent muscle cramps from starting.

DRINK WATER FOR MAX HYDRATION: Generally, women need about 11.5 cups of water a day, and men 15.5 cups. But this doesn’t mean you should chug water. The water you get from other beverages, plus fruits and vegetables, counts, too. Before you reach for a sports drink, know this: You only need these sugary electrolyte beverages if you’re doing high-intensity exercise for an hour or more. For electrolytes without the sugar, drink coconut water instead.

MEDICALLY REVIEWED BY: Poonam Sachdev on March 06, 2022,

Written by Angela Nelson

SOURCES:

Mayo Clinic: “Muscle cramp,” “Water: How Much Should You Drink Every Day?”

Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine: “Using Foods Against Menstrual Pain.”

Cleveland Clinic: “Don’t Let Foot Cramps and Charley Horses Slow You Down.”

Cedars-Sinai Medical Center: "Magnesium Rich Foods."

Columbia University: “Foods that minimize menstrual cramps?”

The Cooper Institute: “Does Pickle Juice Relieve Muscle Cramps?”

American Heart Association: “Hyperkalemia (High Potassium).”

European Journal of Clinical Nutrition: “Associations of Menstrual Pain with Intakes of Soy, Fat and Dietary Fiber in Japanese Women.”

Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise: “Reflex Inhibition of Electrically Induced Muscle Cramps in Hypohydrated Humans.”

National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements: “Magnesium.”

U.S. Department of Agriculture: "Basic Report: 09040, Bananas, Raw," "Basic Report: 11507, Sweet Potato, Raw, Unprepared," "Full Report (All Nutrients):  11353, Potatoes, Russet, Flesh and Skin, Raw," "Basic Report:  11422, Pumpkin, Raw," "Basic Report:  09037, Avocados, Raw, All Commercial Varieties," "Basic Report:  16070, Lentils, Mature Seeds, Cooked, Boiled, Without Salt," "Basic Report: 16015, Beans, Black, Mature Seeds, Cooked, Boiled, Without Salt," "Basic Report:  09181, Melons, Cantaloupe, Raw," "Basic Report: 09326, Watermelon, Raw," "Basic Report: 01079, Milk, Reduced Fat, Fluid, 2% Milkfat, with Added Vitamin A and Vitamin D," "Basic Report:  11457, Spinach, Raw,” "Basic Report:  11233, Kale, Raw,” "Basic Report:  09206, Orange Juice, Raw,” "Basic Report:  12539, Seeds, Sunflower Seed Kernels, Toasted, with Salt Added," "Basic Report: 12563, Nuts, Almonds, Dry Roasted, with Salt Added," "Basic Report: 15237, Fish, Salmon, Atlantic, Farmed, Cooked, Dry Heat,” "Basic Report:  11886, Tomato Juice, Canned, Without Salt Added."

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics: “Hydrate Right During Physical Activity,” “Coconut Water: Is It What It's Cracked Up to Be?” “Kidney Disease: High- and Moderate-Potassium Foods,” “4 Keys to Strength Building and Muscle Mass.”

Much Love, Dr.Shermaine, #InformativeRead #PleaseShare #HealthyBodySoulAndSpirit #IWantYou2LiveWell #FeelFree2SignUpAndFollow

The Goal is to Always Make You Aware of What Concerns Your Body, Soul and Spirit, So You Can Have Open, Honest and Frequent Discussions With Your Physicians and Counselors. You Can’t Treat or Cure What You Don’t Know is Sick.
 
"It's Not Selfish to Love Yourself, Take Care of Yourself and to Make Your Happiness a Priority. It's a Necessity." (Mandy Hale)

"Self-Care is Not Selfish. You Cannot Serve From an Empty Vessel." (Eleanor Brown)

The contents of the WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine Sites, such as text, graphics, images, and other material contained on the WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine Sites ("Content") are for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine Sites!

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned on the Sites. Reliance on any information provided by WebMD, WebMD employees, others appearing on the Site at the invitation of WebMD, and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine or other visitors to the Sites is solely at your own risk.  

"Conquering MRI Anxiety: Your Guide to a Stress-Free Scan"

 

Undergoing an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan can be an anxiety-inducing experience for many individuals. The combination of a confined space, loud noises, and the unknown can trigger feelings of claustrophobia and discomfort. There’s hope! Check out the following tips and options that may hopefully help alleviate anxiety and improve the overall MRI experience.

MRI Anxiety and its Consequences 

MRI anxiety is a reaction characterized by fear, nervousness, or discomfort before or during an MRI scan. Several factors contribute to this anxiety. The confined space of the MRI machine, known as claustrophobia, is a common trigger. Additionally, the loud noises produced by the machine, repetitive clicking or thumping sounds, can cause distress. The fear of the unknown, especially for individuals undergoing their first MRI, can also contribute to anxiety. MRI anxiety can have significant consequences for patients. It may lead to increased stress levels, and discomfort, and even prevent individuals from undergoing necessary medical imaging. Avoiding or delaying an MRI due to anxiety can hinder accurate diagnoses and appropriate treatment plans. Recognizing the impact of MRI anxiety is crucial in developing strategies to manage and overcome it.

Tips for Managing MRI Anxiety

Educate Yourself: Understanding the MRI procedure and the purpose behind it can help alleviate anxiety. Ask your healthcare provider or the MRI technologist to explain the process, including the duration, the sounds you may hear, and the expected sensations. Inquire with the MRI technologist if pamphlets and reading material are available. Ask away! 

Relaxation Techniques 

Practice relaxation techniques before and during the MRI scan. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, or progressive muscle relaxation can help calm your mind and body. You can learn these techniques from online resources or seek guidance from a healthcare professional. Be sure to do all deep breathing exercises before the MRI scan procedure and not during as this may alter your results. 

Distraction 

Some MRI facilities offer in-room entertainment or provide goggles to watch movies or TV shows. Focusing on something enjoyable can divert your attention from the MRI machine and reduce anxiety. Contact your imaging center to be sure in-room entertainment is an option.

Communication 

How about a quick chat with the tech? Inform the MRI technologist about your anxiety or claustrophobia. They are experienced in assisting anxious patients and can provide guidance and support throughout the procedure. They may offer helpful suggestions, such as using a mirror to see outside the machine or taking breaks during longer scans.

Sedation Options 

For individuals with severe anxiety or claustrophobia, sedation may be an option. Discuss this possibility with your healthcare provider, who can assess your situation and determine if sedation is appropriate for you. 

Open MRI 

In some cases, an open MRI machine may be available as an alternative to the traditional closed MRI. Open MRI machines have wider openings, which can help reduce feelings of confinement or claustrophobia. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine if an open MRI is suitable for your specific medical needs.

Supportive Companion 

Having a trusted friend or family member accompany you during the MRI can provide emotional support and help alleviate pre-MRI jitters. Their presence can offer reassurance and comfort throughout the process.

Practice Self-Care 

Engage in self-care activities leading up to the MRI. Get enough rest, eat well, and stay hydrated. Taking care of your overall well-being can contribute to a calmer state of mind. MRI anxiety is a common experience for many patients, but it can be managed effectively. By employing the above tips and options, you can alleviate anxiety and improve your MRI experience. Remember, open communication with healthcare providers and technologists, along with relaxation techniques, distractions, and support, are essential components in overcoming MRI anxiety. By addressing these concerns, you can ensure accurate diagnoses, appropriate treatment plans, and a more comfortable MRI journey.

SOURCE: July 7, 2023 by Jasmine Farrell, BlackDoctor.Org

Much Love, Dr.Shermaine, #InformativeRead #PleaseShare #HealthyBodySoulAndSpirit #IWantYou2LiveWell #FeelFree2SignUpAndFollow

The Goal is to Always Make You Aware of What Concerns Your Body, Soul and Spirit, So You Can Have Open, Honest and Frequent Discussions With Your Physicians and Counselors. You Can’t Treat or Cure What You Don’t Know is Sick.
 
"It's Not Selfish to Love Yourself, Take Care of Yourself and to Make Your Happiness a Priority. It's a Necessity." (Mandy Hale)

"Self-Care is Not Selfish. You Cannot Serve From an Empty Vessel." (Eleanor Brown)

The contents of the WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine Sites, such as text, graphics, images, and other material contained on the WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine Sites ("Content") are for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine Sites!

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned on the Sites. Reliance on any information provided by WebMD, WebMD employees, others appearing on the Site at the invitation of WebMD, and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine or other visitors to the Sites is solely at your own risk.  

"15 Things You Should Do Before You Turn 50"

 

Approaching midlife can be scary, especially if you look back over your life and wonder what could’ve happened instead of what you actually did. As so many celebrities have turned 50 recently, it made me wonder what did I do over my lifetime. With that thought, I decided to create a list of things that I think everyone should do before the age of 50.

15. Get Lost (For real!)

One thing that makes it scarier is feeling like you haven’t accomplished all the life stuff you set out to do in your teens or 20s. By now, you may have seen more of other parts of the world than you’ve actually seen of your own hometown because you’ve been a good little Pythagorean and mastered the straight line between A and B and never got beyond point C. But now is the time to get lost, at least metaphorically. Take that road you’ve never taken. Go to work by bus instead of train. Or get really radical and walk somewhere. Mix it up. And be sure not to plan too much.

14. Use your passport

Many of us have a passport “just in case,” but instead of waiting to win the lottery or for a lonely millionaire with a yacht to show up on your doorstep, take control of your vacations and book a trip out of the country. And yes, Canada and Mexico count, and will definitely stamp your passport. Or consider going to the place you always dreamed of as a child or the country of your ancestors.

13. Get a new hobby (again)!

Ok, so you probably have a collection of these shoes and comic books, or like to do certain activities over and over again and that’s great, but what about something new? It’s time to see if you like doing something else continuously. What else out there might bring you joy? Find out just by seeing what other people’s hobbies are and then trying them for yourself.

12. Wear that outfit, no matter what anybody says

We unconsciously do things by thinking about what other people think. Like when we buy or try on clothes, we usually have this thought in mind: “What will people think or say when I wear this?” Well, at age 50 it’s time to do it if you like it! So what if they talk?! Live your best life and that includes wearing something that brings joy to you and nobody else.

11. Write a will

No one wants to think about death but Newsflash: It’s gonna happen. Probably not today and hopefully not soon but death comes for everyone eventually. And when it does, do you want your kids’ most poignant memory of that time to be the gigantic fight over your collection of rare pickle jars? So sit down, write up a will allocating the important stuff, sign it (preferably in the presence of a notary), and then tell everyone you care about where it is.

10. Fight for something you believe in

It’s time. Time to stop sitting on the sidelines and wondering “What if?” It’s time to do more than just post a picture on social media or just say that you’re praying for some cause. It’s time to do something about it. Go, write that senator a letter, demand change from your city councilmen and women, and find out how you can make a change in your community. You ARE an agent of change, so let’s do something.

9. Get therapy

If your immediate question is “Why would I need therapy?” perhaps you should really ask: "Why wouldn't you need therapy?" Even if your life is going great at the moment, everyone has their ups and downs, and a professional can help you strengthen your inner reserves and develop better coping skills. Plus, when else are you not only allowed but expected to talk about nothing but yourself for an hour?

8. Bless a complete stranger

Let’s say you’ve done pretty well in life, climbed the corporate ladder, made it to the top, and love the view. Congratulations. Now what? Compassion for those who didn’t catch the same breaks is a pretty good place to start the cool-down from your career marathon. The next time you dine out, look for someone who is alone, perhaps sad or troubled or less fortunate than yourself, and pay their waiter for their meal, anonymously. It might make a difference in their life and it will certainly make a difference, for the better, in yours.

7. Pay off your credit cards

Over half of Americans report “substantial” worries about money, according to a recent Gallup poll. And one of the biggest causes of money woes is debt, particularly credit card debt. Thanks to their ease of use (swiping a card almost doesn’t feel like spending money at all!) and low-interest rates, it’s easy to quickly rack up more debt than you know how to do with.

6. Volunteer at a homeless shelter

Once you’ve been established with a home and a job for a long time, it can be easy to forget how close we all really are to the edge. Share what you’ve been given with those less fortunate for an instant priority check and to do a little good in the world.

5. Be an election judge

Want an insider look at how our election process works on the ground level? Sign up to work as an election judge. Don’t worry, it doesn’t involve any actual “judging,” but rather making sure the voting process runs in an orderly and proper manner. You get to see all the ins and outs while still providing a vital service to your community. To sign up, Google “election judge” and enter your state for instructions.

4. Forgive someone

Pick someone from your past who you feel deserves to be forgiven for a previous wrong. Or, better yet, pick someone who doesn’t deserve it and forgive them anyhow. Even if it means nothing to them, it will make you feel so much lighter.

3. Plant a garden

You learn about the plant life cycle as a child but you can’t fully appreciate the magic of it until you’re an adult and have nurtured a plant from seed to maturity. Gardening—or as we like to call it, playing in the dirt—is one of the oldest hobbies for a reason. It’s good for your mind, body, and soul, especially if you reap what you sow.

2. Apologize for something you did wrong

According to marketing communications professional Kerry O’Malley, the steps to a successful apology at work include acting quickly, showing up in person, explaining what happened and how you’re going to avoid the problem in the future, saying “I’m sorry,” and making restitution. Not only will apologizing help the person who was offended forgive you; but it may also help soothe your guilty conscience.

1. Fall in Love (again)

Even if it’s falling in love with yourself (forgiving yourself is something we all need to do), fall in love with someone, kiss them like you mean it and tell them every chance you get just how much you love them.  This time, don’t just tell them, show them that you love them too. If they don’t get it, it’s cool because you have a lot of love to give.

BlackDoctor.Org, July 11, 2023 , by: Gemma Greene, BDC Staff Writer

Much Love, Dr.Shermaine, #InformativeRead #PleaseShare #HealthyBodySoulAndSpirit #IWantYou2LiveWell #FeelFree2SignUpAndFollow

The Goal is to Always Make You Aware of What Concerns Your Body, Soul and Spirit, So You Can Have Open, Honest and Frequent Discussions With Your Physicians and Counselors. You Can’t Treat or Cure What You Don’t Know is Sick.
 
"It's Not Selfish to Love Yourself, Take Care of Yourself and to Make Your Happiness a Priority. It's a Necessity." (Mandy Hale)

"Self-Care is Not Selfish. You Cannot Serve From an Empty Vessel." (Eleanor Brown)

The contents of the BlackDoctor.Org and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine Sites, such as text, graphics, images, and other material contained on the WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine Sites ("Content") are for informational purposes only. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on the WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine Sites!

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately. WebMD and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, physicians, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned on the Sites. Reliance on any information provided by WebMD, WebMD employees, others appearing on the Site at the invitation of WebMD, and Self-Care With Dr. Shermaine or other visitors to the Sites is solely at your own risk.