While the whole world was masquerading in scary and outrageous costumes during Halloween, a team of scientists was making progress with the latest study on irrational fear. Results of this study are expected to expand current knowledge about treatments for major medical problems concerning irrational fear. “We’re taking all of what we learned from the basic studies of animals and bringing that into the clinical practices that help people. Things are starting to come together in a very important way,” said Stephen Maren, a psychology professor from the University of Michigan. The National Institute of Mental Health revealed that about 40 million Americans suffer from anxiety disorders. Being a basic primal emotion, fear is a key to evolutionary survival which we share in common with animals. Aside from genetics, traumatic events are closely associated with the development of overwhelming and needless fear. Ted Abel, a fear researcher at the University of Pennsylvania considers fear to be a funny thing. “ One needs enough of it, but not too much of it,” said Abel. According to Armi Rowe, a Connecticut freelance writer and mother, she used to be one of those rational types who are usually calm under pressure. She is not afraid to downhill ski the treacherous black diamond trails of snowy mountains. One day, however, while coping with some serious illnesses in her family, she felt fear closing in on her while she was driving alone. She thought that the stab of pain on her chest was a heart attack and called 911. Later on, it was learned that what happened was an anxiety attack. With the help of counseling, self-study coping exercises and introspection, Rowe learned to manage such attacks early on. David Carbonell, a Chicago psychologist specializing in treating anxiety disorders, said that there’s a trick to panic attack. “You’re experiencing this powerful discomfort but you’re getting tricked into treating it like danger”, said Carbonell. There is a possibility that by learning how fear runs through the brain and body, scientists can improve on how to dampen fear. Amygdala, an almond-shaped part of the deep brain, is the fear hot spot. New York University psychology and neural science professor Elizabeth Phelps said that amygdala is not the one responsible for all fear response but acts like a burglar alarm that connects to everything else. It was found that a certain chemical reaction in the amygdala is vital in the way mice and people learn to overcome fear, according to Emory University psychiatry and psychology professor Michael Davis. Mice never learn to counter their fears when that reaction is deactivated. D-cycloserine, a drug already used to fight hard-to-treat tuberculosis, was found to strengthen that good chemical reaction in mice. When combined with therapy, it produces the same effect on people who have a fear of heights, and is now being tested in survivors of the World Trade Center attacks and the Iraq war. Recent studies have shown that people easily recognize fear in other humans faster than other emotions. Other studies have suggested that bodily functions change just by being very afraid. One study found that very frightened people can withstand more pain than those not experiencing fear. Another found that experiencing fear or merely perceiving it in others improved people’s attention and brain skills. According to Carbonell, since the normal response for dealing with a real threat is either to flee or fight, the best way to deal with fear when the threat is unreal is to do just the opposite: “Wait it out and chill.”
Tag-Archive for ◊ therapy ◊
Did you know that you can receive a great Deep Tissue massage in Upland, California? Not only can you receive a Deep Tissue massage you can also receive Shiatsu and other forms of massage in this beautiful southern California city. So, if you haven’t done it already you should put getting a massage in Upland on your list of things to do. Massage in Upland is widely available from independent Licensed and Certified Massage Therapists, Massage Establishments, and a number of Day Spas. Massage in Upland is something that is something you’ll want to repeat over and over. Whether your goal is to achieve complete relaxation with a slow, soothing massage, relieve muscular pain and chronic tension, have a more comfortable pregnancy, or improve your sports performance Massage Therapists in Upland can help you achieve your goals. In fact there are several types of Massage in Upland. The most commonly offered massage techniques in Upland are: Deep Tissue Massage – massage of the deeper musculature and connective tissue to release chronic tension and pain. It’s often a firmer massage that is appreciated by experienced clients. This massage shares some strokes and techniques with Swedish massage and is used to root out chronic tension in the deeper musculature and connective tissues that contribute to pain and loss of range of motion in joints. Shiatsu – a Japanese technique of massage that targets specific pressure points to relieve pain and improve the flow of vital energy. Shiatsu is often used to relieve headaches, back pain, and more while the client relaxes on a comfortable Shiatsu mat fully clothed. Swedish Massage – relaxing massage using gliding strokes, kneading, friction, and striking strokes along with gentle stretching and rocking. It’s most often thought of as a “spa” type of massage but it’s much more than that. Swedish massage is great for reducing stress, improving circulation, improving range of motion of your joints, and helping you actually feel better in your own skin. Reflexology – a massage of special zones called “reflexes”, usually on the feet and hands, that relieves tension in distant areas of the body. Pregnancy Massage – massage for the mother-to-be helping her to decrease pain and discomfort throughout the pregnancy. Pregnancy massage relieves muscle spasms and cramps associated with the stress of extra weight bearing and physical changes that occur during pregnancy. However, in addition to the more commonly practiced massage techniques your Upland based Massage Therapist might also practice some other well known massage therapy techniques: Sports Massage Myofascial Release Medical Massage Acupressure Neuromuscular Therapy Lymphatic Drainage You might even want to try a special treat when you get a massage in Upland like Couples Massage where a couple can receive their massage together in the same massage room with two massage therapists. During the couples massage each member of the couple can choose to receive a different massage from that of their partner. Or, for the true massage therapy enthusiast some Massage Establishments and Day Spas offer Four Hand Massage, or Tandem Massage, where you can be massaged by two massage therapists at the same time. Massage in Upland is also very convenient to receive. Massage in Upland is available on an incall basis at a Massage Therapist’s office, salon, or clinic, in a Licensed Massage Establishment, or in one of many conveniently located Day Spas. Massage in Upland is also available on an outcall basis in your Upland area home, office, or hotel. No matter where you are in Upland a great massage is just minutes away. So what’s stopping you from receiving the benefits of a great massage? Massage in Upland is relaxing, stress reducing, pain relieving, and performance improving so get one today.
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If you think gay massage therapists cater only to gay men, think again. The popularity of massage therapy is at an all-time high, which comes as no surprise since it’s been known to do the body good for millennia. But how’s this for a surprise? On a playing field where massage therapy has moved up in rank as reputable business, openly gay men are standing front and center in the competitive world. Board-certified, licensed, registered, it makes no difference. They all mean business, and their satisfied clients are extolling the benefits loud and clear. Sound intriguing? Keep reading. If you’re a straight guy who suffers any homophobic angst about it, free yourself from out-dated fear and commit this to memory: Gay massage therapy is not synonymous with gay sex. And don’t be fooled about whether or not you’ll get a he-man workout; he won’t pull any punches when it’s time to knuckle down on those angst-induced kinks. Straight men benefit from safe and rewarding massages under the healing care of gay men, and they never know it. Or, perhaps they do know and don’t care. Gay masseurs daily roam the world of multi-cultural free enterprise where sexual orientation is about as important as eye-color. Likewise, just as many women want a rewarding and non-sexual massage experience in a safe environment, and they want it from a man just like the straight guys. For them, who could be more ideal than a gay masseur? Answer: Probably no one. For some women, a gay masseur is a must-have over a masseuse or straight masseur. Reason? Higher comfort level. Gay massage therapists seem more in tune with nurturing, allowing these female clients to drop a lot of poor body-image baggage outside the door. Heck, she may lower her shackles of unhealthy inhibitions enough to consider a clothing-optional massage. In a fully holistic approach to massage, the client, whether male or female, is likely to feel comfortable enough to lie completing unclothed, with or without a thin sheet of drapery for warmth and basic human sense of security. Gentle reminder: It’s not about exhibitionism; it’s about closing the space between sore muscles and trained hands. It’s as necessary as water, all the while being completely non-sexual and safe. Ah, we’re working toward a Massage Utopia, you say. Certainly, all professional massage therapists world-over are raising these stress-allaying stations, right? Wrong. Especially when it comes to corporate massage business. Here’s another surprise: The pro massage therapist must follow strict guidelines if he or she is employed with name-brand gyms and uber spas, and those guidelines mean ‘brick wall’ between you and a boundary-free massage. Ever had a spa or gym massage? Maybe it felt nice, but was it memorable? The ambience, if there was one, was more sterile than stellar. Maybe the session felt rushed, or maybe a massage sans attire was prohibited. Blame Big Business-imposed regulations for your mediocre experience. But thank your gay masseur in his privately owned practice! With fewer restrictions, a gay masseur has already carefully arranged an intimate massage space of serene warmth. Note the details. Does candlelight dancing over earth-toned walls soothe the eye? Does soft music sing to the heart? Are you considering a visit to the massage astral plane au naturel? Go with it and relax. Your soul thirsts for serenity with no boundary, and it’s long overdue. So long overdue, in fact, you’re now ready to scout down your heroic gay masseur. Chances are, you won’t find ‘Gay Masseur’ listed in the Yellow Pages, and you’re rather certain he isn’t living next door. So what’s your best bet? For starters, try FindAMasseur.com, where you’re almost guaranteed to find your therapist within driving distance. But, even if the drive is farther than you thought, don’t give up. What we consider the benefits of the big city are starting to spread into smaller communities, bringing better-quality massage therapy closer to home sooner than you think. And openly gay massage therapists are setting up mood-friendly and privately owned shop in neighborhoods everywhere. Once you’ve found him, you’re in for a stress-wringing treat. Stereotypes aside, allow that a gay man may be more sensitive to the needs of others around him, and this includes you. His healing power of touch is likely to feel more intuitive than ‘learned’. Who knows? You may feel relaxed enough to let fly that toxic self-image enough to experience a massage with nary a stitch of whatever you wore in. Let’s face it; getting a massage in your clothes is like sunbathing in a parka.
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Bradenton, Florida, just south of Tampa Bay on Florida’s west coast, is a great place to get a fantastic massage therapy session. That’s right, in addition to Bradenton’s fantastic weather and abundance of fun things to do you can also receive a perfect massage. So, whether you go to Bradenton for a business trip, an unforgettable beach vacation, or a job related family relocation you should take the time to get massage therapy. Massage in Bradenton is widely available from independent State Licensed Massage Therapists, Licensed Massage Establishments, and several world class Day Spas. Massage in Bradenton is an experience that is memorable and enjoyable and something you’ll want to repeat over and over. Whether your goal is to completely relax with a slow, soothing massage, relieve muscular pain and chronic tension, have a more comfortable pregnancy, or improve your sports performance Massage Therapists in Bradenton can help you achieve your goals. In fact there are several types of Massage in Bradenton. The most commonly offered massage techniques in Bradenton are: Esalen Massage – characterized by long, slow, Tai Chi like tissue lengthening strokes along with gentle rocking and stretching, passive joint movement, sculpting of deep musculature, and cranial balancing. Personal attention takes precedence over pure technique. Swedish Massage – relaxing massage using gliding strokes, kneading, friction, and striking strokes along with gentle stretching and rocking. Deep Tissue Massage – massage of the deeper musculature and connective tissue to release chronic tension and pain. It’s often a firmer massage that is appreciated by experienced clients. Hot Stone Massage – many people think that this is perhaps the most relaxing and luxurious massage you can get. Heated stones seemingly melt away stress and tension. Neuromuscular Therapy – a specialized, advanced pain relief technique targeting specific trigger points in muscles, tendons, and attachment sites. Prenatal/Pregnancy Massage – massage for the mother-to-be helping her to decrease pain and discomfort throughout the pregnancy. Lymphatic Drainage Massage – specifically used for decreasing swelling and edema as well as improving the circulation of the body’s lymph. It’s detoxifying and some think it improves the immune system too. However, in addition to the more commonly practiced massage techniques your Bradenton based Massage Therapist might also practice some other well known massage therapy techniques: Myofascial Release Trigger Point Therapy Sports Massage Medical Massage Acupressure Ortho-Bionomy Aromatherapy Massage Rolfing You might even want to try a special treat when you get a massage in Bradenton like Couple’s Massage where a couple can receive their massage together in the same massage room with two massage therapists. During the couples massage each member of the couple can choose to receive a different massage from that of their partner. Or, for the true massage therapy enthusiast some Licensed Massage Establishments and Day Spas offer what they call Four Hand Massage, Duo or Tandem Massage, where you can be massaged by two massage therapists at the same time. Massage in Bradenton is also very convenient to receive. Massage in Bradenton is available on an incall basis at a Massage Therapist’s office, salon, or clinic, in a Licensed Massage Establishment, or in one of many conveniently located Day Spas. Massage in Bradenton is also available on an outcall basis in your Bradenton area home, office, or hotel. No matter where you are in Bradenton a great massage is just minutes away. Massage in Bradenton is relaxing, stress reducing, pain relieving, and performance improving so get one today. You’ll be glad you did!
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Have you received a massage in Longmont, Colorado? If you haven’t done it already you should put it on your list of things to do. Longmont has some of the most beautiful natural scenery in the United States and is considered one of the most serene and spiritual places to live or to visit. So, whether you go to Longmont for a business trip, an unforgettable vacation, or a family relocation you might find you want to receive massage therapy. Massage in Longmont is widely available from independent Certified Massage Therapists, Massage Establishments, and a growing number of Day Spas. Massage in Longmont is something that is memorable and enjoyable and something you’ll want to repeat over and over. Whether your goal is to completely relax with a slow, soothing massage, relieve muscular pain and chronic tension, have a more comfortable pregnancy, or improve your sports performance Massage Therapists in Longmont can help you achieve your goals. In fact there are several types of Massage in Longmont. The most commonly offered massage techniques in Longmont are: Swedish Massage – relaxing massage using gliding strokes, kneading, friction, and striking strokes along with gentle stretching and rocking. Hot Stone Massage – perhaps the most relaxing and luxurious massages you can get. Heated stones seemingly melt away stress and tension. Aromatherapy Massage – a very relaxing and therapeutic massage incorporating the benefits of both massage and essential oils for an incredible effect you’re going to love. Pregnancy Massage – massage for the mother-to-be helping her to decrease pain and discomfort throughout the pregnancy. Neuromuscular Therapy – advanced pain relief targeting specific trigger points in muscles, tendons, and attachment sites. Lymphatic Drainage Massage – specifically used for decreasing swelling and edema as well as improving the circulation of the body’s lymph. It’s detoxifying and some think it improves the immune system too. Deep Tissue Massage – massage of the deeper musculature and connective tissue to release chronic tension and pain. It’s often a firmer massage that is appreciated by experienced clients. However, in addition to the more commonly practiced massage techniques your Longmont based Massage Therapist might also practice some other well known massage therapy techniques: Sports Massage Myofascial Release Medical Massage Acupressure Shiatsu Ortho-Bionomy You might even want to try a special treat when you get a massage in Longmont like Couples Massage where a couple can receive their massage together in the same massage room with two massage therapists. During the couples massage each member of the couple can choose to receive a different massage from that of their partner. Or, for the true massage therapy enthusiast some Massage Establishments and Day Spas offer Four Hand Massage, or Tandem Massage, where you can be massaged by two massage therapists at the same time. Massage in Longmont is also very convenient to receive. Massage in Longmont is available on an incall basis at a Massage Therapist’s office, salon, or clinic, in a Licensed Massage Establishment, or in one of many conveniently located Day Spas. Massage in Longmont is also available on an outcall basis in your Longmont area home, office, or hotel. No matter where you are in Longmont a great massage is just minutes away. So what’s stopping you from receiving the benefits of massage? Massage in Longmont is relaxing, stress reducing, pain relieving, and performance improving so get one today.
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There are very few psychological conditions that can be as devastating for a person to develop as bi-polar disorder. This mental health disorder is a vicious condition that can be traced as the cause of various problems, including suicide. It is ranked as the third most common cause of suicide around the world and the sixth leading cause of someone being classified as “disabled.” Bi-polar becomes even worse when one considers it can be a recurring problem, plaguing people that have it for the rest of their lives. It is also sad that this mental health condition is rarely understood by the general public, to the point that most people tend to associate it with violent or criminal tendencies. What Happens When Someone Has Bi-Polar Disorder? As previously stated, bi-polar is a mental health condition that is typically identified by the recurring shifts between mania and depression. The sudden “swings” can often make bi-polar patients incredibly difficult to predict, particularly if the condition has been left untreated for long periods. The “swings” are not regular and can be spaced years apart in some instances, but patients with the condition often have an average of eight to ten within a lifetime. Certain external factors, such as one’s environment and peers, are sometimes said to aggravate the condition, but this theory has yet to be fully tested. Some patients experience psychotic episodes, particularly during the mania periods of the condition, but these occur only after very severe cases. Finally, younger patients with the condition experience chronic mania, rather than episodic, often accompanied by factors such as stress, irritability, and anxiety. What Causes Bi-Polar Disorder? Recent evidence suggest that there might be a genetic link that causes bi-polar. Studies have focused on twins, blood relatives, and adoption studies. According to the results, parents who have a mood-related disorder tend to produce offspring that have bi-polar disorder. Twins also frequently develop the problem together, though there are cases where only one twin develops the condition. The results have also shown that identical twins have a 43% chance of developing the disorder, as opposed to a 6% chance for fraternal twins. The studies also note that since the results for the twins study did not reach 100%, environmental factors may also play a role in the development. Whether they merely activate the genetic trigger or if they are the direct cause, however, remains to be seen. How Do You Treat Bi-Polar Disorder? Treatment of bi-polar disorder can be rather extensive, as it usually involves a lifetime of therapy and the use of some form of medication. Usually, the medication prescribed to accompany the therapy is a mood stabilizing drug, such as lithium, valproic acid, or carbamazepine. These medications only help suppress the mood swings and shifts, but are not known to completely remove the disorder. There is a certain level of difficulty in treating the condition as the episodes can occur with years of interval between them. In some extreme cases, anti-psychotic medication can also be given to help. Nutritional supplements have had no noticeable effects during testing, despite some claims to the contrary. Currently, the best treatment known consists of psychotherapy, mood-stabilizing medication, and psychoeducation.