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Ever since I can remember, I have always believed in the power of using natural remedies in the way of preventative and also healing methods, when it comes to my own body.

To be perfectly honest with you, I don’t have much confidence in most doctors and conventional medicine because their whole approach is only focused on a patient’s body, neglecting the mental and emotional aspects of a patient, which are often a contributing factor to a health issue because not everything is only biological. A medical doctor’s single concern is to ‘fix’ the body, which I totally understand because that’s how they were trained – to only see and treat the body.

However, because of my background in natural healing modalities, I’ve come to realize that healing involves more than just the physical.

And healing is not always about being able to heal the body, especially when it comes to something such as HIV or terminal cancer. But more so about healing the mind and spirit; moving to a place of acceptance and learning how to live a quality life with the illness.

This is not to say there are not medical professionals out there who are sensitive to a patient’s mental and emotional state, but there are few and far between.

Another point that I would like to make is that in today’s world, with the astronomical cost of health insurance on the rise, it’s up to me to take control over my own health and investigate other healing methods that are not only less expensive, but also very effective.

Since the early ‘80’s, I have thoroughly investigated and researched various natural healing modalities, and have been certified in several of them. I much prefer natural modalities because they work with the body’s natural ability to heal. And not only the body, but the mind as well.

Sure, there have been times when I’ve used both conventional medicine and natural methods together, but I will always try natural healing first, then use conventional later. But you see, that was MY choice, not a doctor telling me THIS IS WHAT YOU NEED TO DO.

Too often we readily place ourselves into the hands of medical doctors; not realizing there are other options. We just automatically assume that because someone is a doctor, they always know what’s best. And always have the answers.

Long before conventional medicine came to be, natural medicine was the only thing used. And quite successfully, I might add. So why not still use it?

I don’t mean to bash the entire medical profession, but it would behoove them greatly if they would at least keep an open mind and familiarize themselves with some of these natural modalities, so they could offer alternative routes to their patients; pointing them to a different type of health practitioner. Yet, I think the reason they don’t do this is because then it would make what they paid a fortune to learn how to do in school, less powerful.

It threatens them.

Sorry, but it’s true. I’ve had certain medical professionals get pissed at me for even mentioning the words natural health.

Throughout my life, people have asked me, “Don’t you think you’re taking a big chance with your health choosing natural over conventional medicine?”

And my answer to them is, “No, because the reality is that you’re taking a chance either way.”

An ideal world would be one in which both medical and alternative doctor’s work together.

But until that happens, I will ALWAYS take my health into my own hands. And do what I intuitively know what I need to do at that moment.


56 comments:

  1. More and more doctors are coming round to the idea of using natural medicine/healing now, which is a good thing.

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  2. Good morning, Ron. When appropriate my doctor recommends alternative healing and is always interested to hear how I get on with the chiropractor. I once went down the path of alternative medicine but for some reason I didn't keep it up ... probably due to laziness on my part. I do believe in it, though, and would recommend anyone to pursue it. Herbal plant life and yoga were my things. Both worked.


    Happy Monday.

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  3. I'm a believer in balance - I think both natural approaches and standard medical treatment are valuable. When it comes to my own health, I do as much in the way of preventive care as possible - exercise, healthy foods, and so on. I am signed up for an intro yoga class starting tomorrow, because I suspect that has a lot to offer me. I use some herbal supplements (black cohosh because I'm OLD and melatonin occasionally for sleep). I don't go to my regular doctor often, but I do see my OB-GYN religiously. She has a low-key approach and was actually the one who suggested melatonin to me. I try to avoid antibiotics and opt for just keeping my immune system in good shape. But I also use my physician when it's called for. Could I have treated my cervical cancer without surgery? Maybe. I think that would have been a foolish, foolish risk to take, though. My younger son would, without a doubt, be dead if there had not been a skilled neurosurgeon available when he needed brain surgery. I willingly got myself and my kids vaccinated against diseases that are killers. While it's true that some traditional medical approaches have been used for centuries and are effective, there have been some astounding innovations that it doesn't make sense to toss out just because they are newer. I'm thankful we have both at our disposal.

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  4. I've spent quite a bit if time studying this topic, Ron. Medical professionals have to follow proven scientific methods. That's the real issue. Until a natural remedy can be scientifically proven to be effective, they just can't advise a patient to use it. And unfortunately, there is only a small percentage of 'natural' remedies that have been proven effective.

    What upsets me about this topic is that so many people are taken advantage of by modern snake oil charmers, because when we have a child with an issue, or are facing a life changing health problem, we all become vulnerable and want to believe in miracle cures.

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  5. I think there are several doctors out there now embracing the idea of incorporating traditional and natural medicine. I am a believer in the power of acupuncture. My acupuncturist always referred me to an MD if she thought it necessary but then would treat me with Chinese medicine when appropriate. I agree that it's about balance. There are times when Western medicine is critical and other times when a more holistic approach is the way to go. You are right when you say it's all about you taking charge. I'm trying to be better about that.

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  6. Hey there Secret Agent Woman!

    "While it's true that some traditional medical approaches have been used for centuries and are effective, there have been some astounding innovations that it doesn't make sense to toss out just because they are newer. I'm thankful we have both at our disposal."

    I agree with you. And I think you said it perfectly when you shared...

    "I'm a believer in balance - I think both natural approaches and standard medical treatment are valuable."



    it's about BALANCE. And knowing when to use each approach.


    I live in a city that is VERY "medical" oriented, therefore, there is a lot of resistance to alternative therapy.


    Thank you so much for stopping by and sharing your thoughts and feelings on this topic :)


    Have a grrreat week!

    X

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  7. Good morning Bijoux~

    "And unfortunately, there is only a small percentage of 'natural' remedies that have been proven effective."

    Sorry, but I have to disagree :) There have been many natural remedies that have been proven effective because I've used them. And so have others.

    "What upsets me about this topic is that so many people are taken advantage of by modern snake oil charmers, because when we have a child with an issue, or are facing a life changing health problem, we all become vulnerable and want to believe in miracle cures."



    Well, it's the same with traditional medicine because we are quite often taken advantage by them as well; believing in a cure.


    As I shared, in an ideal world it would be wonderful if traditional and alternative medicine worked together.


    For me, it's about balance and knowing when to use both.


    Thanks a bunch for stopping by and sharing your thoughts on this topic, my friend. Muchly appreciated!


    Have a super week!
    X

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  8. I couldn't agree with you more. I know of very few medical doctors who do not balk at holistic healing practices....where do they think medicine came from?

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  9. Goood morning Valerie~

    "When appropriate my doctor recommends alternative healing and is always interested to hear how I get on with the chiropractor."

    That's GREAT to hear! I think doctors in Europe are a probably a bit more open to alternative therapies, just because it's older. Here in the U.S. the medical community is slowly coming around to it, but not quickly enough.

    "I do believe in it, though, and would recommend anyone to pursue it. Herbal plant life and yoga were my things. Both worked."



    Excellent! And as I shared, to use both traditional and alternative therapy when appropriate, is the ideal situation.


    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear lady. Have a super week!


    X

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  10. Hiya Jen~

    " There are times when Western medicine is critical and other times when a more holistic approach is the way to go. You are right when you say it's all about you taking charge."

    Exactly! Taking charge and giving ourselves the options of using either modern medicine or holistic. Or even BOTH together.

    I too have tried acupuncture and found it very effective :)



    Thanks for stopping by, girl! Have a terrific week!


    X

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  11. Goood morning Pearl~

    "More and more doctors are coming round to the idea of using natural medicine/healing now, which is a good thing."



    Yes, I agree, some doctors are. Which is a good thing :)


    Thanks for stopping by, m'dear. Have a wonderful week!


    X

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  12. Ron, you're right in saying that we take a chance using either/or because nothing is for sure. I use alternative methods myself, but also use traditional is some cases. What I find with alternative therapy is that most practitioners are willing to work with you when it comes to payment for their services using a sliding scale, making it more affordable.


    As you shared, in ideal world it would be great if eventually both ways would work together. And respect each others methods.


    Great topic, Ron. Have a wonderful week.

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  13. Hola Denise~

    ". What I find with alternative therapy is that most practitioners are willing to work with you when it comes to payment for their services using a sliding scale, making it more affordable."



    Thank you for bringing up that point because you're right. Most all alternative practitioner's I've ever used has been willing to work with payment; using a sliding scale.


    As I shared, I've used BOTH methods myself, but will always choose alternative first. It's knowing when to use each and taking charge of your own health.


    Thanks so much for stopping by, girl. Have a super week!

    X

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  14. "....where do they think medicine came from?"

    Amen, Suzi! And for me, holistic healing practices are much gentle on the body, yet very effective.



    Thanks for stopping by, my friend. Have a super week!


    X

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  15. hmmm, weighty subject for me i suppose. for someone like myself who deals with chronic pain, i prefer to use whatever works at the moment. i totally believe in chiropractic therapy as i have found it work wonders with my pain. had to find the right chiro though. i've tried acupuncture and nothing. i know certain foods/herbs/vitamins heal (or at least alleviates pain to an extent) as well and i'm trying to stay on top of eating/taking those things to help manage my pain, but it takes a lot longer for relief than say....popping a pill. doctors push medicine, a temporary fix, and some never get the the root cause because either they don't know or don't care. other option is surgery in some cases it helps, but doesn't always fix. as i tell peeps no one feels or even understands my pain so don't judge how i manage it be it with drugs or without. sex helps, not advocating, just saying and exercise as well. day after day, year after year, pain, pain, and pain. there are a few days, sometimes weeks, in between of relief, only to come back. makes me want to cry and sometimes i do.

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  16. good morning darling...wonderful post and of course, i completely agree as i burp up my detox of assorted naturals that are making me sicker than a dog... as if.


    ACAM is the organization in the US for integrative specialists. a list of MDs who practice integrative medicine, combining eastern-acupuncture, homeopathy-with typical western. my doc thinks so far outside the box he lands himself in the ocean sometimes but saves my life over and over again. i am not the picture of health but shutter to think where i'd be if i hadn't dumped my family practice years ago with his meds for everything under the sun.


    much lovexxxx

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  17. Hey there V Girl~

    Yes, you're absolutely right, this is a weighty subject because there are many variables that come into consideration when choosing medical versus natural.

    And just because I strongly believe in natural, that doesn't mean everything works ALL THE TIME. But it's the same with traditional medicine as well. That's why they call it a "practice", because they're practicing - nothing is 100% sure either way.

    "for someone like myself who deals with chronic pain, i prefer to use whatever works at the moment."

    Glad to hear that, and that's exactly what I mean. I've used BOTH healing methods myself, but find better results with natural. But, that's just me.

    "but it takes a lot longer for relief than say....popping a pill."

    Yes, it often does take longer than popping a pill. But it does so because natural remedies work to slowly reverse the cause of the issue, which takes time. But usually the end result is long-lasting.

    "doctors push medicine, a temporary fix, and some never get the the root cause because either they don't know or don't care."

    You shared a mouthful of truth in that, girl. A temporary fix; never getting to ROOT CAUSE. Which is why I prefer natural because it works on so many levels other than physical. That's why they call it 'Holistic' because it works with the "whole" of the person, not just a single issue. Sometimes a physical problem, say, in our back could have something to do with another part of our body which is causing the pain. Holistic medicine sees the 'bigger picture' rather than a single issue.

    " as i tell peeps no one feels or even understands my pain so don't judge how i manage it be it with drugs or without."

    And you shouldn't judge it because it's YOUR choice. Listen, last year when I had issues with my tooth abscess, I used BOTH natural and traditional. I most certainly took an Advil to help with the pain, but I also used reflexology and reiki to help as well. And it worked :)

    It's about balance.

    Thank so much for stopping by and adding your thoughts and feelings to this post, girl. You've added much!

    Have a super week!

    X

    P.S. "sex helps, not advocating" HA! Love it!!!!

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  18. hello ladyV-
    just saw your comment underneath mine and i too suffer from chronic pain. it is so hard to find a good chiro and they scare me as well but..i keep my ears open. i have to say that i have had several surgeries on my back for pain and nothing ever worked to fix it. in fact made it worse and brought on neuropathies i cannot now fix. i don't think surgery is the answer...


    i have found that magnesium lots of it, is very effective for pain. it is used in Europe all the time as a med at high doses for pain and anxiety. no, doesn't rid you of it but takes the edge off. i have IV's of it so can take about 4g at a time with B12 generally and once in awhile toradol, an antiinflammatory. you'd have to find a doc willing and able-see my comment above if interested. be well and at peace, my friend. you are not alone on your path. :)

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  19. Good morning dear Linda~

    "ACAM is the organization in the US for integrative specialists. a list of MDs who practice integrative medicine, combining eastern-acupuncture, homeopathy-with typical western."

    Thank you so much for sharing that because I had never heard of that organization before. I will look it up online and read up on it this week :)

    "my doc thinks so far outside the box he lands himself in the ocean sometimes but saves my life over and over again."

    Yaaaaaaaaayy...I am so glad to hear you have a doc that "thinks outside the box." That's the thing about the west coast of the U.S., you guys have a much more open mind about natural things than we do on the east coast. The east coast is very "left-brain" while the west is more "right-brain."



    Thanks so much for stopping by, dear friend. Hope you're feeling better.


    (((((((((((((( You ))))))))))))))))))


    Have a super week!


    xoxoxooxoxox

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  20. Oh boy, did you ever express a lot in this post, Ron! And the only thing I can say it that I've used both ways of healing and the natural way has given me the best results. I don't down traditional medicine because it has its purpose in some cases, but I also think everyone's body is different, so it will react differently to different methods.


    As others have shared here, it's about listening to your own body and taking charge of your own health, and knowing what feels best for you.

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  21. Hiya Matt~

    " but I also think everyone's body is different, so it will react differently to different methods."

    Great point! Everyone's body IS different, therefore will have a different result using either method. For me, I get the best results from natural.

    "it's about listening to your own body and taking charge of your own health, and knowing what feels best for you."



    Thank you.


    Always great seeing ya, bud. Thanks for stopping by and have an awesome week!


    X

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  22. Katherine, I cannot THANK YOU enough for sharing that movie with me because I had never heard of it. So before I responded to your comment, I Googled it and found his website and watched the movie trailer.

    OMG.....it's faaaaaaaaaaabulous!!!! And I'm gonna leave the link in this comment, so that if anyone is interested in his story, they can watch the clip for themselves.

    http://www.fatsickandnearlydead.com/about.html

    "It is funny, with my back, so many docs have prescribed medication and look at me funny when I don't take it. This is a prescription driven world!"

    I'm proud of you for doing intuitively what feels right for YOU! Last year, when I had issues with my tooth abscess, I was given very heavy pain medication from the oral surgeon because told me that I was going to be in severe pain. But didn't take it because I didn't want to feel "out of it" at work. I took Advil, and it worked fine.

    Thanks for stopping by and sharing on this post, Katherine!

    Have a wonderful week, my friend!

    X

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  23. Hey there Rob~

    " Acupuncture and similar traditional healing methods have survived all these years for a reason."

    Thank you. And so have natural herbs and Homeopathy. I mean don't doctors realize that much of the medicine they prescribe CAME from a natural form? Valium is a derivative of Valerian root BEFORE they added all the chemicals to make it dangerous and addictive.

    "I love the concept of "healing the mind and spirit; moving to a place of acceptance and learning how to live a quality life with the illness."

    Rob, I learned that through Reiki, by working with terminally ill patients and those who have also been infected with HIV. Reiki may not have cured them, but it sure made their time on this earth a time of QUALITY. And it made their journey to hereafter, much more peaceful. True healing is not always about healing the body, but rather acceptance.

    "I've known many fine, dedicated physicians, but I am concerned about putting profit over health and turning to potentially dangerous medications for every single ailment."



    THANK. YOU.


    Always fab to see ya, buddy. Have a WONDERFUL week!


    X

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  24. I hate to take medication. My doctor knows this and won't automatically offer up tablets to me. When I was in the hospital, they somehow also knew and respected this. They did however, advise that I take enough pain killers to keep my pain under control. That's one of the very few times I took medication regularly. I don't take alternative medication though. I actually couldn't afford the luxury of it. I'm a great believer in, unless it's life threatening, that I can work through and get over most things. Obviously there are times when I need to see a doctor, but they don't see me very often ;) I do believe illness can often be controlled by our minds.

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  25. I have a friend who is very much into the whole natural health movement. She swears by reiki and the healing powers of many natural oils and balms. Fortunately, I've been pretty healthy most of my life, and haven't had to rely on the advice of very many doctors over the years, but when I do, I'm with you: it's my body, and I'd like to explore any and all options that serve my own best interests primarily.


    Great post...you tell 'em, boy!

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  26. Hiya Babs~

    " My doctor knows this and won't automatically offer up tablets to me. When I was in the hospital, they somehow also knew and respected this. They did however, advise that I take enough pain killers to keep my pain under control. That's one of the very few times I took medication regularly."

    That is so great to hear, because at least they listened to you and gave handed over the power of chosen whether or not to take them.

    That's AWESOME!

    " I don't take alternative medication though. I actually couldn't afford the luxury of it."

    Now here in the States, alternative medication and treatments are much more affordable than conventional medicine. That's another reason why I choose to use alternative. Conventional treatment in this country is soooooooooooooo expensive.

    " I'm a great believer in, unless it's life threatening, that I can work through and get over most things. Obviously there are times when I need to see a doctor, but they don't see me very often ;)"

    Yes, I'm of the same mindset.

    Thanks a bunch for stopping by, my friend. Have a wonderful week!

    Much X to you and Mo!

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  27. Howdy Mark~

    "I have a friend who is very much into the whole natural health movement. She swears by reiki and the healing powers of many natural oils and balms"

    Yes, I had a feeling (living where you live on the west coast) and being as open minded as you are, knew of these natural modalities and most likely knew people who used them.

    Me too, thank god most of my life I've been pretty darn healthy and have not had to use doctors much. I LOVE my dentist, but he's in the minority. He's sweet, kind, compassionate, and very much open to listening to me and then giving me options. He treats his patients like people, not just a mouth he's taking care of.

    " it's my body, and I'd like to explore any and all options that serve my own best interests primarily."

    A-MEN!

    Thanks for stopping by, bud. Have a faaaaaabulous week!

    X to you and Tara!

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  28. An interesting topic, Ron! I was talking about some similar things with other friends recently.
    I have mixed views. On one hand, knowing some aromatherapy and reflexology basics and having been involved with Reiki for many years and having tried assorted natural and holistic things, I do know they have helped me, and then other times they didn't and I was extremely grateful to have trained medical personnel to give me what I needed.
    For me, it's a balance. I know that many doctors tend to just push pills for specific ailments and don't treat the body as a whole or try to get at the root of a problem, which is sad, but I also know others are more open to a holistic approach. My family doctor tends to not want to give too many antibiotics, which is good, but also doesn't seem to be much of an advocate for vitamins and supplements either. Yet there are always drug reps in his office so he's obviously prescribing a lot of other medication. A specialist I see fairly often is fine with many of the holistic things I've talked to him about. Sometimes he says flat out ...don't do this or that... but overall, he's very open to a combination of approaches and will at least discuss anything I want. One medicine I take regularly, and even though there might be a way to get natural remedies to do the same thing, he cannot legally take me off that medication because I have a potentially serious condition and I could sue him if he suggested I make a change and then got worse. So some of the doctors who are more open-minded do have to deal with malpractice issues and cannot recommend certain things even if they want to.
    Also, since insurance companies generally don't allow too much coverage for holistic type therapies, for many people, doing conventional medicine is all they can do. The cost of self-pay for alternative doctors and products can be very expensive. A friend of mine sees a QiGong or Tai Chi master for a type of energy healing. The first appt. was a few hundred dollars and there were many more to follow.
    So, again, for me it's about balance. If I have a headache and can do Reiki or peppermint oil first, I do. Other times, I need an Advil! If I have a cold, extra C, zinc, gargles, rinses, etc. have worked fine. When I had a bad virus that caused extreme vertigo, which then caused constant vomiting and dehydration, I wanted a doctor and IV meds! Lavender wasn't gonna cut it, ya know! LOL


    Awesome post, Ron! Have a great week, my friend. xo

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  29. It's quite the opposite here, in the UK. Free conventional medication (for seniors) but alternative remedies are really very expensive.

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  30. Isn't that something how it's different in different places?


    Thanks for stopping back, Babs!

    X

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  31. Hiya Mary~

    To much sum up my response to your AWESOME comment, I have to say that I'm pretty much the same as you...BALANCE.

    As I shared, it's always natural that I will try first, but if that doesn't work and feel that I need to see an MD, I will. But so far in my life, natural medicine as always worked best for me. Also too, I think everyone is different, some people natural works well and for others they get more from a regualar doctor.

    To be honest with you, I've had very few "good experineces" with conventional doctors. I LOVE my dentist, but most MD's I've had contact with are way too pushy and have no bedside manner whatsoever.

    "Also, since insurance companies generally don't allow too much coverage for holistic type therapies, for many people, doing conventional medicine is all they can do. The cost of self-pay for alternative doctors and products can be very expensive."

    I don't have health insurance, so for me I find holistic type therapies more affordable because the practitioners I've met have worked with me on a sliding scale of payments.



    It's as you shared, my friend...it's about balance and knowing what works best for us when we need it.


    Thanks a BUNCH for stopping by and sharing your thoughts and feelings on this topic. Always a delight to read your comments!


    Have a maaaaaavelous week!


    X


    P.S. can you believe how cold it was yesterday? It was so windy, I thought I was going to BLOW off the street - HA!

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  32. In today's world I think much of society's problems stem directly from not taking care of the mind. There's too many self-absorbed people who feel entitled to get whatever they want, and when they're denied or insulted they react violently. It's systemic, with one generation not caring about the next. Children learn negative behaviors from their parents and/or friends, and nobody is there to correct them, to tell them "no", and to serve as a positive example.


    So yes, I totally agree with you that the mind and the spirit must be nurtured as well as the body. And that, my friend, is something that medical doctors simply can't do.

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  33. Hey there Herman~

    Freakin' fantastic comment, buddy! I loved EVERY single word of it because it's TRUE!!!!

    And this summed it up perfectly...

    "I totally agree with you that the mind and the spirit must be nurtured as well as the body. And that, my friend, is something that medical doctors simply can't do."



    THANK. YOU. and A-MEN.


    And wouldn't be great if they opened themselves up to educating themselves in these things, and then used them WITH conventional medicine?


    Thanks so much for stopping by, buddy. Have a super week!


    X to you, Karin, and Mr. Tyler!

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  34. Boy......when the FDA gets 40% of their money from the pharmaceutical companies and when the pharmaceutical companies shell out near 6 million a day on lobbyists-- Yeah, boy, I'm gonna be wondering 'zackly WHY taking that drug is necessary...and 'zackly what's IN it that makes it so darn spendy. And then they wanna script you another medication to treat the sideaffects of the first medication?
    Boy howdie--what a deal!! :-/
    LOL Can you tell I'm a bit miffed with the whole drug/doctor deal right now? Seriously, I have great appreciation for physicians who treat the WHOLE person instead of simply the symptoms at hand. I treated symptoms for years and didn't know the 'disease'--that didn't work so well. I blamed the one physician that I respected for referring me to one I didn't know cuz he thought he'd 'get to the bottom of the problem'. Drug A-Z.......none of which changed the problem, all of which created other issues for me. And when I went back to the one I respected because he's a 'digger' and willing to go outside of that box......go figure--answers and solutions. NONE of which involved a pill, by the way. *sigh* Really, I should have insisted differently from the onset. Good on the one I respected to get with the one he referred me to. More oughta be willing to do that, frankly. Teach the other and get 'em on board.
    I don't know that the 'on board' happened, but it cemented my belief in the doc to know he did go back and have that conversation with the other physician(s) involved.


    I'd rather have answers to the problem--no matter what the answers are. And since I'm not one who happily holds up their bag of pills (seriously.....some do and I understand for some the medications are extremely necessary...) doing solutions that are natural appeals to me. I did the other route (necessary at one point!!) and I prefer this route, tyvm.
    'Cept for the massage deal.....ewwwww....
    LOL SEE--you shouldn't have gotten me started!

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  35. Hi Ronnie,
    You have adressed a huge and fascinating topic!! In an ideal world, you would go to a Dr who would ask by which method you want to be treated and send you to accupunture,holistic,reiki,etc and NOT call you loony!
    Like Mel brought up, the Pharaceutical industry is powerful. There are fortunes made in that and they would prefer that you, pop pills.
    I feel myself that the times that are stressful, I will most likely be prone to colds or getting a case of bronchitis. Stress is sometimes the "switch", so calmness should be its natural counterpoint with whatever one can do to relax and chill out. I meditate and I do walks.
    Of course, some ailments are way to serious just to go solo... I would not consider curing something on my own without having one or two professionals behind me.
    You are right to say to the M.D.s that you are not taking a chance. Health is a very personal matter; we can be advised but the decision what to do is the patient's...
    Big healing hugs to ya, dear xox

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  36. Bonjour Barb~

    " In an ideal world, you would go to a Dr who would ask by which method you want to be treated and send you to accupunture,holistic,reiki,etc and NOT call you loony!"

    OMG...wouldn't that be WONDERFUL?????

    "I feel myself that the times that are stressful, I will most likely be prone to colds or getting a case of bronchitis. Stress is sometimes the "switch", so calmness should be its natural counterpoint with whatever one can do to relax and chill out. I meditate and I do walks."

    LOVE how you said that, my friend, because you're spot on is saying that stress is sometimes the "switch!"

    Yes, absolutely, we have to be conscious enough to sense when to go solo and when to seek professional help. As I shared, I will always try natural first, then go conventional if needed.

    "Health is a very personal matter; we can be advised but the decision what to do is the patient's..."



    Amen!


    Much thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts and feelings on this topic, Barb. Muchly appreciated!


    Have a super-duper week!


    X to you and D!

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  37. Hiya Mel!

    "And then they wanna script you another medication to treat the sideaffects of the first medication?"

    *clapping*

    Thank you!!!!!

    " I treated symptoms for years and didn't know the 'disease'--that didn't work so well.

    Drug A-Z.......none of which changed the problem, all of which created other issues for me."

    I think MANY of us have done that same thing - treat the symptoms and ignore the "disease." However, through my research and training in certain alternative therapies, I realized that pills are often a "band-aid" until we are willing to address the "dis-ease."

    " And since I'm not one who happily holds up their bag of pills (seriously.....some do and I understand for some the medications are extremely necessary...) doing solutions that are natural appeals to me."

    Yes, I too understand that certain medications are extremely necessary because sometimes it's a chemical imbalance in the body. But to use medication AND say, alternative therapies together, can be even more effective because you will be treating the "whole."

    Thanks oodles for stopping by and sharing on this post, dear lady. Muchly appreciated and respected.

    Have a maaavelous week!

    ((((((( You )))))))

    X

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  38. Ron, I myself have not used much in the way of natural alternatives, but I wouldn't exclude them as being effective. A close friend of mine is a like you, she uses natural remedies initially and has experienced great results, but will also use conventional if needed.

    Very interesting post topic. I always like the way you present your point of view on controversial topics because you do it directly and intelligently.

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  39. Hey Ho Robert~


    " A close friend of mine is a like you, she uses natural remedies initially and has experienced great results, but will also use conventional if needed."


    I think that's the key, knowing when to use either/or, or even both together. Everyone is different, so I think we need to know what works best for us.


    Thanks so much for stopping by and for your supportive words, buddy :)


    Hope you're having a stellar week!


    X

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  40. I'd agree that selecting an holistic approach to wellness is only beginning to emerge in western medical practices. But I see it more and more, from prayer groups to art, dance and music therapy to yoga, nutrition, image counseling and a variety of other treatments designed to meet the needs of the whole patient. I even know a nurse who led a clinical trial of breast cancer patients who channeled their energies into making quilts. The creative process itself can be healing. mind+body+spirit :)

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  41. Hey there Diane~

    " But I see it more and more, from prayer groups to art, dance and music therapy to yoga, nutrition, image counseling and a variety of other treatments designed to meet the needs of the whole patient. I even know a nurse who led a clinical trial of breast cancer patients who channeled their energies into making quilts."

    Yaaaaaaaaay! Excellent! I am sooooooo glad and happy to hear that!

    And it's so ironic that you mentioned " nurse" because I know of more nurses who are open to this kind of Holisitic healing more so than doctors. I once gave a talk at a hospital in Florida for nurses about using Reiki in their practice and they were SO open to it. However, the doctors looked at me like I was insane - HA!

    "The creative process itself can be healing. mind+body+spirit :)"

    You said it, girl!

    Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing on this post. You've added MUCH!

    X to you and Cristybella!

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  42. I must admit that I have a really good relationship with my physician. I have been going to the same practice since I was eighteen years old!! When the first doc retired, I was assigned the new guy and we have built a relationship based on mutual trust and respect. He totally listens to me if I want to try some kind of natural treatments...or homeopathic remedy...he's behind me 100%. I really thank the lord that I have him as an advocate. I can even communicate with him via email now...which sure saves big bucks in this economy. This new high deductable plan is damn near killing us financially...as the first $1500 must be paid out of pocket before ANYTHING kicks in. My little trip to the oral surgeon last year cost us three thousand bucks....I think sometimes we'd be better off without paying insurance! I mean...we were paying six hundred dollars a month and that's the kind of payout we were getting. It is totally ridiculous. The bad thing is that it is going to get worse...it looks like anyway. Have a nice day Ron! xo Jeanne

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  43. Good morning Jeanne~

    "I must admit that I have a really good relationship with my physician. I have been going to the same practice since I was eighteen years old!!"

    That's awesome to hear!! And I think it's incredible that you've been going to the same practice since you were 18 years old!

    "He totally listens to me if I want to try some kind of natural treatments...or homeopathic remedy...he's behind me 100%. I really thank the lord that I have him as an advocate."

    You are so blessed because (besides my dentist) I've not had experiences with any other doctor like that.

    "This new high deductable plan is damn near killing us financially...as the first $1500 must be paid out of pocket before ANYTHING kicks in. My little trip to the oral surgeon last year cost us three thousand bucks...."

    Yikes, that's a lot! I don't have insurance, so ANYTHING I pay for comes out of pocket.

    "...we were paying six hundred dollars a month and that's the kind of payout we were getting. It is totally ridiculous. The bad thing is that it is going to get worse...it looks like anyway."

    You're right, is going to get worse. And that's the reason why I strongly believe in using alternative remedies as preventative AND healing remedies because it's so much cheaper than seeing an MD.

    Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing your thoughts and feelings on this topic, dear lady. You've added much!

    Hope you're having an awesome week!

    X to you and the girlz!

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  44. "And healing is not always about being able to heal the body, especially when it comes to something such as HIV or terminal cancer. But more so about healing the mind and spirit; moving to a place of acceptance and learning how to live a quality life with the illness."

    um, yeah. for real.

    I think I am REALLY blessed to have such a great medical team working together, and with me, for all of my issues, including the mental & emotional aspect. Because it's exhausting trying to handle it alone.


    Sadly for me, I cannot take anything "natural" like supplements or "holistic" things, because 9 times out of 10 I am either HIGHLY allergic, or my stomach completely rejects it.

    ReplyDelete
  45. Jay of The Depp EffectThursday, February 21, 2013

    "And my answer to them is, “No, because the reality is that you’re taking a chance either way.”


    And ain't THAT the truth!


    It's so funny that I came over and read this today because this afternoon, OH and I were talking about how much we DON'T trust the medical profession. OH used to be very trusting of them, and would get impatient with me for 'being neurotic' over medical things. Now, with some personal experience of some very nasty drug side effects under his belt, he is a whole lot less trusting and more suspicious of their skill level and motivation. I'm not sure he's ready to try alternative health yet (apart from chiropractic, which we've both benefitted from), but he's less judgemental of me, that's for sure!


    I applaud you, Ron. Especially for DOING what you need to, after your body had told you which direction to take. Mine has been screaming at me to stop eating all the sugar for some weeks now, but I have yet to listen. *Sigh*

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  46. Hey Meleah~

    "I think I am REALLY blessed to have such a great medical team working together, and with me, for all of my issues, including the mental & emotional aspect. Because it's exhausting trying to handle it alone."

    I am sooooooooooo happy to hear that, girl. Because many medical doctors seem to forget how important the mental and emotional aspects of a patients being, help in supporting HEALING.

    "Sadly for me, I cannot take anything "natural" like supplements or "holistic" things, because 9 times out of 10 I am either HIGHLY allergic, or my stomach completely rejects it."



    I TOTALLY understand because I know how allergic you are to things. So whatever works for YOU, that's the most important thing.


    Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing on this post, girl.


    Hope you're feeling better!


    ((((((( You ))))))


    X

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  47. Hey there Jay~

    " OH used to be very trusting of them, and would get impatient with me for 'being neurotic' over medical things. Now, with some personal experience of some very nasty drug side effects under his belt, he is a whole lot less trusting and more suspicious of their skill level and motivation."

    I think a lot of people are the same way, Jay. We grow up being told that medical doctors know whats best, but I'm sorry, they don't. I could tell you counts stories of the horrible treatment my mother got from her primary medical doctor before she was diagnosed with cancer. She BEGGED her doctor to send her to a pulmonary specialist because she could tell something seriously wrong with her, but her doctor refused and just gave her more PILLS.

    "I'm not sure he's ready to try alternative health yet (apart from chiropractic, which we've both benefitted from), but he's less judgemental of me, that's for sure!"

    Great to hear that!!!!

    " Especially for DOING what you need to, after your body had told you which direction to take. Mine has been screaming at me to stop eating all the sugar for some weeks now, but I have yet to listen. *Sigh*"

    The thing of it is, our bodies will usually tell us what it needs and doesn't need. It's just a matter of listening. Trust me, it's taking YEARS to figure that out, but it seems to work for me if I just listen and then do what it says.

    Thanks so much for stopping by and sharing on this post, my friend. You've added MUCH!

    Hope you're having a fantabulous week!

    X

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  48. Yes, I'm still here (from SuziCate's), snooping around on your site finding all sorts of great reads. I agree with you about taking responsibility for our own health. My joke it, if I'm at the doctor's office, I must be almost dead. Fortunately, I don't need to go often, but I can realize when a condition is above my pay grade and better living through pharmaceuticals is needed. I have a lot of "doctor friends," but have always thought they had somewhat of a God complex. :-) I agree that the best approach is a combination of natural and pharmacological options. Great topic.

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  49. Hey there Lisa~

    "My joke it, if I'm at the doctor's office, I must be almost dead."

    Bwhahahahahahahha! OMG...that's HILARIOUS! And yes, I feel the exact same way.

    "Fortunately, I don't need to go often, but I can realize when a condition is above my pay grade and better living through pharmaceuticals is needed."

    I agree! I've had to take things like Antibiotics for a tooth infection, because the natural alternative wasn't working. I think it's important to sense when to use each.

    "I have a lot of "doctor friends," but have always thought they had somewhat of a God complex. :-)"



    Thank You!!!!! And I don't mean to generalize about ALL doctors, because my dentist is not that way at all. He's a sensitive and very caring medical doctor.


    Thanks for stopping by and sharing on this post, Lisa!

    X

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  50. more than half the world recognizes nature and spirit as parts of the healing process, we here in the states are so behind in this aspect

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  51. Hey there Lady Dianne~

    THANK. YOU.

    And you're absolutely right about that. We here in the states are more about 'scientific proof' yet, what's ironic about that is that even though they can prove it scientifically, that still doesn't mean it works all the time.

    As I shared, it's taking a chance either way.

    Thanks for stopping by, dear lady. Hope you're feeling better.

    (((((((( You ))))))

    Much X to you, Hope, Siren and Isadora!

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  52. What a great post, Ron! Acupuncture and similar traditional healing methods have survived all these years for a reason/

    I love the concept of "healing the mind and spirit; moving to a place of acceptance and learning how to live a quality life with the illness." I've had a lot of health problems related to the Epstein-Barr virus and I did myself additional harm by getting angry and frustrated about being ill. (I've also turned into a first class hypochondriac, but that's another story.)

    I've known many fine, dedicated physicians, but I am concerned about putting profit over health and turning to potentially dangerous medications for every single ailment. Please continue to share your insights about natural healing, Ron. It is greatly appreciated.

    Take care, buddy!

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  53. Have you seen "fat, sick and nearly dead?" I JUST saw it this weekend and was so moved and motivated. All natural stuff "rebooting" your body. ABSOLUTELY!

    It is funny, with my back, so many docs have prescribed medication and look at me funny when I don't take it. This is a prescription driven world!

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  54. hi linda,


    thanks for this info. i have heard that magnesium has helped some people, though i haven't looked into it. i did however look into clothes with copper inside them, but didn't bite the bullet on that one.


    i'm on the b's, fish oil, flax seed, calcium and lord knows what else.


    surgery helped me a little bit. i still have pain, but it's no where NEAR what it was before. now i'm considering an epidural in my lumbar spine because the pain is still present there. doesn't seem to end. i don't know. i really will try almost anything to get rid of pain. never heard of toradol though.


    thanks.

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