A new UCLA study links diesel exhaust with clogged arteries. The finding, published in Genome Biology, describe how the particles from diesel fumes affect the fatty acids in Low Density Lipoprotiens (LDL or "bad" cholesterol) by combining with them and helping to trigger the genes that cause atherosclerosis, or a hardening of the arteries. This interaction significantly increases the chance for a heart attack.  read more »

We are mostly habitual beings. Webster defines habit as an acquired mode of behavior that has become nearly or completely involuntary. Our system is wired to automate our daily routine behaviors, like driving a car, taking a shower, washing dishes, etc., so that our minds free up the “thinking “ parts of our brain for more creative purposes. While this is very adaptive and generally benefits us greatly, it is also an impediment to developing new habits.  read more »

Modern life is stressful. Keeping up with responsibilities can be emotionally and physically taxing if we do not manage our time wisely and develop good habits. Chronic stress and anxiety suppresses immune function, facilitates disease and impairs healing, though a small dose of stress is healthy for keeping us on our toes. Realizing the importance of balance and relaxation, there are neo-ancient tools to optimize our health, creativity and vitality.  read more »

As a touring keyboardist, recording artist and song writer for over 30 years, I have been very sensitive to sound vibrations in various living and working environments. Traveling the world and sharing the gift of music in concerts, I have developed some ideas about how we can use sound to balance our health and enhance the quality of our lives. We tend to take for granted all that comes into our ears in the course of our daily lives; if we focus attention on the different ways sounds affect us, we can gain insight into how certain sound vibrations and levels can cause stress and disease in the body and mind. We can then begin to create and design our own sound environments, and, thereby, promote profound effects on our well-being and create a pathway to healing.  read more »

There you are, slowly walking through the grocery store aisle – specifically the bread aisle, enjoying yummy smell of carbs. There are so many types of bread to choose from that one can get easily flustered about the best or the right kind to buy. Whole wheat, wheat flour, enriched flour….what the heck does it all mean? But no matter what kind you get, one thing is guaranteed about bread: it’s delicious. The truth is, bread can be delicious and good for you. Yup, really.  read more »