The Physiological Sigh
Are you one who sighs when you get stressed? It’s actually a good thing, whether your realize it or not, your body is looking out for you. And you can actually use sighing intentionally, to your advantage. A “physiological sigh” is a deep inhalation followed by a prolonged exhalation that occurs naturally in the body. It is a reflexive mechanism that helps to regulate the levels of carbon dioxide and oxygen in the body, and it is also thought to play a role in reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
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Benefits of N.A.C.
N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is a popular supplement that has been widely used for its numerous health benefits. NAC is a derivative of the amino acid cysteine and is known for its antioxidant properties. In this article, we will explore the importance and benefits of NAC supplementation.
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Huberman's "Sleep Cocktail"
Sleep is a crucial component of our overall health and wellbeing. It is during this time that our bodies repair and rejuvenate, allowing us to function at our best during the day. Unfortunately, many people struggle to get the recommended seven to nine hours of sleep each night. This can have a negative impact on both physical and mental health.
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Dopamine: 101
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in the brain's reward and motivation system. It is often referred to as the "feel-good" chemical because of its association with pleasure and positive feelings. But dopamine does much more than just making us feel good; it also plays a critical role in various aspects of everyday life. Understanding it’s role and function can be a key part of taking control of your cravings, motivation and more.
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What is Qi Gong?
Qi Gong (pronounced “chee-gong”) is a form of traditional Chinese exercise that combines physical movements, breathing techniques, and meditation. It is one of the oldest and most complete systems of Chinese health care, dating back to more than 5,000 years ago. The word Qi Gong is made up of two Chinese characters: "Qi" which means life energy, and "Gong" which means cultivation or skill. Therefore, Qi Gong can be translated as the skill of cultivating life energy.
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Chinese v. Japanese Acupuncture
Acupuncture is not a one-size-fits-all therapy, and different styles of acupuncture have evolved over time, each with its own unique approach and techniques. In this article, we will explore two widely practiced styles of acupuncture: Chinese acupuncture and Japanese acupuncture.
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Male Fertility and Zoloft
If you and your partner are considering trying to conceive, it's important to be aware of any factors that may affect your fertility. One such factor is medication use, including the use of antidepressants like Zoloft (sertraline) in particular. Here are a few things to consider about Zoloft and its potential effects on male fertility.
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Zinc For Male Fertility
Zinc is an essential trace mineral that plays a critical role in male fertility and hormonal health. Like all nutrients, it is found in semen in trace amounts and is important for the proper formation and protection of sperm. Studies have shown that zinc levels in seminal plasma are correlated with sperm count and normal morphology in male test subjects. Fertile men generally have higher levels of zinc in seminal plasma compared to infertile men, and smokers tend to have a lower zinc status.
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Male Fertility: What is a Varicocele?
Varicocele is a condition where blood pools in the veins of the scrotum, leading to an enlargement of the venous plexus. This condition is quite common, with up to 43% of adult males being affected. Interestingly, men with varicoceles are more likely to experience infertility, with up to 80% of men with secondary infertility having varicoceles.
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ILLNESS & Libido: The Effects of Cytokines on Testosterone
It’s not much of a surprise that we lose our interest in sex and physical intimacy when we’re ill. Our libido drops greatly, the questions is why? The answer lies in the release of cytokines, which are substances related to the immune system that help attack invader cells like bacteria and viruses. When one falls ill, they release a high amount of cytokines, some of which are anti-inflammatory, but others are pro-inflammatory.
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The HPG Axis and Male Fertility
The HPG axis is an essential part of the male reproductive system as it stimulates the production of both testosterone and spermatogenesis, which are crucial for male fertility. The HPG axis can be thought of as a company hierarchy with the hypothalamus being the boss, the pituitary being the supervisor, and the testes being the workers.
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The Science of Sound Therapy
Music has been a part of human culture for thousands of years and its impact on the human brain and emotions is undeniable. Over the years, scientists have been studying the effects of music and sound on the brain, and the results have been fascinating. They have shown that music can have a profound impact on our brain and can influence our mood, memory, cognitive abilities, and even our physical health. In this article, we will discuss the importance of sound and music for brain neurological health and how connecting the hemispheres via music can be valuable therapeutically.
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Stoicism and Stress Management
Stoicism is an ancient Greek philosophy that has been around for over two thousand years. Despite its age, its teachings remain relevant and useful in modern day life, especially in managing stress. This philosophy emphasizes the importance of accepting life's circumstances and focusing on one's own thoughts and actions, rather than external events.
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Male Fertility Basics: Sperm DNA Fragmentation: Single vs. Double Strand
Male fertility plays a crucial role in the ability to conceive and bring a healthy child into the world. A key factor in male fertility is the integrity of sperm DNA. In this blog post we will cover the difference between single and double strand breakage.
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Male Fertility Basics: Sperm DNA Fragmentation Tests: 101
DNA fragmentation in male sperm is a rising and increasingly missed cause of male factor infertility. The accuracy of sperm DNA fragmentation tests is critical to identifying the underlying cause of infertility in couples.
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Cupping / Myofascial Decompression Therapy: 101
Cupping therapy, also known as myofascial decompression therapy, is an ancient healing practice that has been used for thousands of years in cultures around the world. The therapy involves using suction to apply pressure to the skin, which is used to promote circulation and relieve pain.
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Male Fertility and The Endocrine System
The endocrine system plays a crucial role in regulating many bodily functions, including fertility in men. Endocrine disruptors, found in many everyday products such as plastics, can interfere with the delicate balance of hormones that are responsible for male fertility.
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5 Elements of Eastern Medicine
In Eastern medicine, the concept of the five elements - wood, fire, earth, metal, and water - is a fundamental principle of understanding the natural world and our place within it. These elements are not just physical entities, but also represent the essence of our being.
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Mindfulness and Eastern Medicine
In Eastern medicine, the concept of mindfulness is closely tied to the balance of the five elements and the principles of yin and yang. By practicing mindfulness, we can tap into the natural flow of energy within ourselves and the world around us, bringing a sense of harmony and balance to our lives.
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Vibrating on Om + Interoception
Interoception is fascinating. The perception of gentle, novel inputs into your physical awareness can be incredibly valuable. We spend a lot of time in our heads. A LOT OF TIME in our heads. Therapies like this, acupuncture, qi gong, yoga, etc. can be remarkable for helping you “tune” back in to your inner physical landscape.
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