Stephanie recently interviewed me to get the low down on healing with naturopathic medicine.  She even got on my massage table to experience craniosacral therapy for the first time.  What a fun collaboration it has been!

~Natural treatment for Summer Skin Scares~

Insect bites

• I found out about this tip on accident.  I noticed that a dime-sized, bright red, itchy and swollen insect bite on my leg was nearly gone – after taking an Epsom salt bath.   I like a therapeutic level of Epsom salts and typically use 2-3 cups.  Epsom salts are high in magnesium and most people are deficient these days – so it’s not only a great way to restore your levels, but it also reduces muscle tension, edema, has a detoxifying effect, and is one of the best ways to de-stress before bed.
• Don’t have a bath tub?  Soak a wash cloth in hot water in your sink with 1 cup of salts, use as a compress over swollen bites – use in 3-5 min intervals until wash cloth cools then repeat several times.
• Also try – homeopathic Apis mellifica 30 C– 3-5 pellets every few hours to take out the inflammation (stop once you experience improvement), and topical traumeel cream
• Oh and topical Neem oil is nature’s best bug repellent!

Sunburn

• Take a neutral temperature bath with one or more of the following ingredients to help soothe inflamed skin:  baking soda, oatmeal, apple cider vinegar (about 1-2 cups each).
  Aloe vera gel is one of the best topical treatments for sunburn, but you want to use it after the hot phase is over, otherwise it can trap in the heat of a burn.  It has a cooling and hydrating effect.
• Also try: homeopathic calendula 30 C orally and topically as a cream for some relief.

Heat rash

Heat rash or prickly heat happens when the body is inefficient at sweating, or when the sweat glands become become clogged as can happen in hot humid climates.  Heat rash typically goes away on it’s own, but here are a few suggestions to provide some relief:

• Cool bath followed by a dusting of baking soda or powdered oatmeal – stay away from creams and ointments which can clog pores.
• Cool chammomile compresses – make some chammomile tea, and let it cool, use a cloth to soak up the cooled tea, and apply topically to affected areas. You can also use the cool tea bag as a compress.
• Homeopathic urtica urens 30C – 3-5 pellets every couple of hours, stop remedy when symptoms resolve.

With all the medications, refined foods, additives, alcohol, pesticides and other chemicals we are exposed to in the environment, and in our homes, our body’s natural ability to adapt and detox can very easily become overwhelmed.

Nutritional detoxification is a mainstay of Dr. Marie’s practice.  Regular periods of detox can  greatly reduce our risk of chronic disease.  It also has the immediate health benefits of: improved vitality, better digestion, weight loss, decreased allergies, stronger immunity, and mental clarity.  Join Dr. Marie Rodriguez and for a  *free* teleconference to learn more about this therapeutic practice and how you can get safely started on one to boost your vitality and kick start your health.

Click here to listen to a *free* recording of the teleconference

Cortisol affects all the major physiological processes in our bodies – the utilization of carbohydrates and fats, regulation of blood sugar levels, maintenance of blood pressure, and the production of sex hormones. In general, how well we feel really depends on how well these glands are functioning.

Any number of factors can interfere with the finely tuned balance of adrenal hormone production and can lead to adrenal fatigue. It’s estimated the up to 80% of adult Americans suffer some level of adrenal fatigue at some time during their life; yet, it continues to remain one of the most under-diagnosed conditions.  Adrenal fatigue is a collection of symptoms, some of which include: low energy, a general sense of feeling unwell, reduced libido, ringing in the ears, increased premenstrual symptoms, subfertility, decreased immunity, and insomnia. People with poor functioning adrenal glands may not have obvious signs of illness, yet live feeling unwell, often using coffee and other stimulants to get through the day.

If you think you are suffering form adrenal fatigue, and are interested in learning some supportive measures, listen to this *free* audio recording about optimizing adrenal health.

What most people aren’t aware of is that the overwhelming majority of hypothyroid cases are due to an auto-immune condition called Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.  In this condition, the immune system creates antibodies against thyroid tissue and it’s hormone producing enzymes.  This condition is under-diagnosed because the medical community does not routinely test for the antibodies involved — most likely because treatment for low thyroid is the same whether or not one has Hashimoto’s.

While optimizing thyroid hormone levels is crucial for overall metabolic function, if one is suffering from auto-immune thyroid illness, managing the immune response is of critical importance.  Over 50% of those with Hashimoto’s also have auto-antibodies against other tissues and organs: cartilage, intestines, myelin, etc.  A comprehensive naturopathic approach is needed to prevent the smoldering immune destruction of these various organ systems.  Customized nutrition with an emphasis on avoidance of food sensitivities helps to quell the imbalanced immune response.  The current medical literature highlights the link between gluten intolerance and auto-immune  illnesses – going gluten-free could be an important dietary decision that helps to heal your thyroid for the longer term.

For more information about thyroid function and a comprehensive look at creating optimal thyroid health, listen to this recording.

One in three people are estimated to have at
least one type of cardiovascular disease today.

February is heart-health month – so let’s highlight some important heart-healthy preventative practices to keep you from being One of the Three!

First, we all know that exercise is critical for cardiovascular health. The American Heart Association recommends 75 minutes weekly of vigorous physical activity (defined as being ‘too out of breath’ to carry on a conversation) or 150 minutes weekly of moderate exercise. There’s now a new slant on things – a new study by the European Heart Journal shows that taking more frequent breaks from sitting also reduces the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle (elevated triglycerides, inflammation, lowered ‘good’ cholesterol). Consider breaking up the monotony of sitting by walking to your co-worker’s desk instead of emailing them, exiting the bus or metro a stop earlier, taking phone calls standing up.

On the nutrition front, incorporating berries (especially blueberries and strawberries) into your diet is a heart-wise choice. Berries contain bioflavonoids called anthocyanins which promote blood vessel health and reduce blood pressure. The berries are proposed to act via the NO pathway – nitric oxide dilates and relaxes blood vessels, thereby easing blood pressure.

Adding 1 cup of blueberries daily will provide you with these bioflavonoids. For added support, check out Vineyard blend by Juice Plus – it offers the phytonutrients of 9 different berries and research shows it improves vascular resistance to meals containing saturated fats.

Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, consider how your emotions and response to stress influence your heart’s health. Witness any tension held in the chest and shoulders – stress and negative thought patterns affect circulation and neurotransmission. An inability to unwind and let go of these burdens can positively impacts cardiac health.

Deep breathing, laughter and gratitude practices ease tension and fill the heart with the positive experience of joy. This not only releases healing endorphins, but according to the Institute of Heart Math, radiates outward like radio waves that are detected by the nervous systems of others in our environment.

May you take a rigorous walk at lunch today, eat a cup of blueberries
and deeply breathe, laugh and enjoy life!

In health,

Dr. Marie

When we release traumas, blockages and imprints in our energy body, we re-illuminate and re-inform our physical body; shifting our health, emotional, and spiritual destinies. Both the ancient Tibettan and Andean lineages speak of becoming a ‘rainbow body’ – one that is free of suffering and the binds of ego, one that links heaven and earth.   It is to walk in freedom and in full alignment with our origins. When we develop a rainbow body, we age, heal, and experience life’s challenges without all of the suffering that our egos create.

We don’t have time to wander nomadically as the Tibettan yogis did – meditating in caves to connect with our divinity or as the Andean shaman did living high up in the mountains away from civilization.  Nor do we have to.  We are in a time when our shifting is much more accessible, and we have access to enlightened states like never before. 2012 is not about the end, it is about the beginning – a time when we have the opportunity to evolve consciously and help to heal our world’s destiny.  And in case you haven’t noticed, our world really needs it.

We can wake up through many practices: meditation, yoga, ceremony, mindfulness, creative expression, etc.  There are also universal energies – the Munay-ki – that are available to us and help us to heal on our spiritual journey.  These energetic frequencies heal and re-inform our energetic bodies so that we may walk in fuller alignment and expression of our destinies as fully awake beings.  Whether you are seeking to calm your mind, open your heart, or release stuck patterns and negative emotions consider attending our upcoming Munay-ki workshop, as it is a powerful healing and inspiration for all who are evolving consciously.

It is an excellent time of year to simplify, and to let go of whatever inhibits our balance.  We may choose to identify and shift limiting behaviors or cut out foods that congest and deplete us.  These mindful changes create opportunity to heal, strengthen mental clarity, and even boost our immunity to prevent that seasonal cold or flu.

I encourage to you to simplify your routine, eat a clean diet, and take time for some holistic self care.  Regular and consistent stress-relieving treatments are critical for optimal wellness. Below you will find some resources for enhancing your wellness this winter.  In addition to acupuncture, massage and herbal medicine, I am very excited to be working with a couple new healers whose services complement my naturopathic practice. We also have a natural pharmacy to ‘winterize’ your immune system for the upcoming cold and flu season.  Please see below for more details~

Announcing Additional Complementary Services

Consider scheduling a treatment with one of our amazing healers to unwind and get your immune and nervous systems resourced for the seasonal transition and the upcoming cold and flu season.

Energy Healing and Intuitive Coaching with Delila Adams

Delila has been helping individuals toward optimal health for over the last ten years. While known as a Naturopathic Practitioner, she is a certified Master Alignment Practitioner, inspirational author, speaker and founder of Diamond Heart Healers, a group designed to advance healers, practitioners and individuals in their spiritual, physical and personal development. Contact: delilasemail@gmail.com, 571.249.0713

Reiki, Reflexology and Aqua Detox with Rachel Kaufman

Rachel is a Usui and Mahatma Reiki practitioner and a certified reflexologist. She is trained in the use of essential oils, and incorporates them into her treatments. This combination of reiki, reflexology and therapeutic essential oils reduces stress-related physiological and emotional tension, and brings harmony to body, mind and spirit. People report feeling relaxed, uplifted and content after a single session. A series of sessions is encouraged to help maintain a sense of ease.

Aqua detox is a method of cleansing impurities from the body via a therapeutic foot soak.  Negatively charged ions draw out toxins and enhance lymphatic circulation. Added benefits include meridian balancing and increased energy production at the cellular level.  Contact Rachel: heelingvibes@gmail.com ~ Make an appointment

Immune Support Kit- for prevention, acute care and speedy recovery of colds and flu

Throat Spray Tone – Most colds and flus begin with that first tickle or scratch in the throat. The mouth and the throat is replete with lymphoid tissue and serves as the body’s first line of defense against pathogens. Throat spray tone assists and strengthens this important defensive system. Can be used for prevention and treatment – 3 sprays 4-6x/day.

Core Mycelia Blend – An herbal extract that contains a powerful combination of six medicinal mushrooms and Astragalus. Medicinal mushrooms have been used for centuries by the Chinese, and were highly prized for their many benefits, including immune system support. Modern science has discovered the active ingredient -beta-glucans activates the immune response and has active anti-viral properties. 30 drops twice daily.

Vitamin D3 – 1-2,000 drops to be taken at minimum during cold and flu season.  Studies showed that flu incidence during the 2009-2010 season was correlated to low vitamin D status.  Get your vitamin D levels checked – optimal levels are btw 50 and 80 ng/ml

Flu-tone – Homeopathic flu support – containing a broad bandwidth of previous flu strains to prepare the immune system for the upcoming viral strains. 30 drops twice daily.

Core Olive Leaf Extract – Olive leaf has been used for centuries to support the body against pathogens of all strains.  May be used for prevention (30 drops twice daily) and for acute onset:  30 drops every 2-4 hours depending upon symptom severity.

Each session includes practical tools and clues to look within, identify what limits you, re-direct your energy and attention, and apply balancing strategies for living from your heart’s desires and unique purpose.

Get Grounded. Sunday 10.3.2010 from 1-3 pm

In our fast paced world, we often live from the ‘shoulders up’ – not feeling fully connected with our daily experience.  Anxiety, memory, sleep issues are common complaints from this way of being, while a desire to be more grounded, fully present and connected to the day-to-day experience are common wishes.  In this session, you will learn to identify your ideal flow, create balance in the body, and ground yourself to effectively manage stress and overcome ego challenges and self-sabotaging behaviors.  Visualization, meditation, discussion and gentle movement exercises will be incorporated to support you in this practice of grounding and discovery.

Open Your Heart. Sunday 10.31.2010 from 1-3 pm

A lifetime of sensitivity to challenges, disappointments, and stress can teach us to shield our hearts for protection.  We end up limiting ourselves from fully experiencing the richness that life has to offer and the beauty within.  Create the space needed to turn away from the busy-ness, tune into your heart and learn how self-love is the foundation for receiving balance, peace, and success on all levels.  In this session, you will learn energetic and meditative exercises to transform limiting beliefs and inherited familial patterns as well as use inquiry, reflection, and movement exercises to open and re-connect to your heart.

The Sky’s the Limit. Sunday 11.7.2010 from 1- 3 pm

Once you are fully committed and walking in your life’s journey with an open heart, it is time to create possibilities and bring your brightest vision into being.  In this session, you will learn to fully let go of self-limiting beliefs and step into and surrender to pure potential.  Through the technique of visioning and tapping into the power of your subconscious you will learn to draw on your creative potential and the support that is always available to you.  You will learn to work with tools such as dream boarding and shamanic journeying for embodying and manifesting your dreams and gaining access to your highest self.

All sessions will be held at lil omm yoga – 4830 V St. NW, Washington DC 20007

Cost: $45 per class or $120 for all three

To Register:

Phone: 202.248.6304

Email: info@lilomm.com

The liver has a big job.  As our body’s largest detox organ, it filters between three and four pints of blood each minute!  In addition to detoxification, the liver metabolizes proteins, manufactures hormones, creates immune molecules, and produces bile for fat absorption.  Toxicity, poor eating habits, and stress lead to sluggish liver function.  We become lethargic, frustrated, and have a challenging time transitioning into the more active days of summer.

A nutritional cleanse eases the burden on the liver, and has far-reaching health benefits.  Cleansing improves energy levels, enhances immune function, bolsters digestion, clears the skin, reduces allergies, creates mental clarity, and balances hormones (it is the first thing you should consider to avoid PMS).  Cleansing also heightens self-awareness and spiritual insight.  It is nature’s best preventative medicine, and given our toxic times, there are many reasons to do a cleanse.

(Those suffering from or at risk of malnutrition, immune compromise, or other debility should consult a naturopathic physisician before attempting any type of detoxification.)

In practice, I am often asked ‘what cleanse should I do?’ There are so many detox kits on the market that it can be hard to decipher if one needs a liver detox, colon cleanse, candida cleanse, or parasite purge.  I steer people away from kits because  doing nothing other than taking a few supplements for 2-4 weeks cannot completely detox the body.

Cleansing can be simpler than you realize,  because our bodies have amazing built in self-cleaning mechanisms.  We clear through our colon, kidneys, liver and lungs.  As a result, I recommend a nutritional cleanse. You stick to a whole foods diet rich in organic vegetables, whole grains and fruit.  You eliminate sugar, dairy, coffee, alcohol, and refined/processed/packaged foods.  You rest more and hydrate well. Your body does the rest.  If you are looking for a customized detox, or if you want to target specific imbalances, I recommend consulting with a naturopathic doctor.

Upcoming Events

Optimizing Nutrition for Longevity

Learn how some nutritional basics can boost your energy, strengthen your immune system and balance your stress response.  We will discuss how whole foods nutrition and appropriate supplementation can offer key anti-aging benefits: improved anti-oxidant status, lowered cardiovascular risk, and DNA protection.

Drs. Daemon Jones and Marie Rodriguez will be co-presenting Tuesday May 25th at 6:30 pm at Smith Farm.  Call 202-386-9701 for more details.

Healing through Energy Medicine

Come join Dr. Marie Rodriguez and Sara Salam July 2-4 for a transformative weekend of healing with energy medicine. Receive a discount if you register before May 21st.

We are composed of as much energy as physical matter.  In fact, our luminous energy field is composed of nine layers that act as a blueprint which informs our physical bodies.  It is possible to heal deeply by working with this energy field.

We will be incorporating the Munay ki in this healing weekend.  The Munay ki are nine energetic transmissions used by Peru’s high shaman to align our energy fields with universal energy.  These energies clear imprints from our field that keep us bound and limit our potential.  For more information, check out:  www.luminousmedicine.com