The BIÂN Blog

Seasonal allergies don’t always manifest as the textbook description of runny nose, sinus congestion, and itchy, watery eyes. Headaches, cough, dizziness, or simply a drop in energy can all represent allergy-related symptoms. Treatment options extend from run-of-the-mill antihistamines to IV therapy drips. While therapeutic remedies should always be discussed with your doctor, here are a few general considerations when choosing the best remedies for you:

• Oral Anti-Histamines:  Zyrtec (cetirizine) and Xyzal (levocetirizine) tend to be most effective, though these are associated with drowsiness in ~20% of the population in spite of their “non-drowsy” classification. Claritin or Allegra, albeit less potent, may be milder in terms of sedating side effects. Dry mouth/eyes is a common side effect, and these should be avoided in those with significant urinary retention issues.

• Decongestants:  It should be noted the pseudoephedrine (sold behind the pharmacy counter) is typically far more effective than its on-the-shelf counterpart phenylephrine (Sudafed PE), though also more likely raise blood pressure or stimulate a faster heart rate. Oral, and even more so nasal (Afrin), decongestants are typically intended for short-term or sporadic use and can result in rebound runny nose when used excessively. Pseudoephedrine (the “real” Sudafed) is  the “D” component of antihistamine combo meds.

• Nasal Sprays:  Steroidal-based nasal sprays such as Flonase (fluticasone) and Nasacort (triamcinolone) are available over-the-counter. These are typically highly effective for the treatment and prevention of sinus inflammation and tend to carry fewer systemic side effects than oral pills. They are most effective when used consistently (i.e, I wouldn’t call it a “treatment failure” if 2 days of Flonase hasn’t saved the day). These can be surprisingly helpful for allergy-related cough, which often stems from nasal drip rather than lung irritation. While typically considered quite safe, regular use of steroidal nasal sprays should be noted to your doctor, since they may be considered sub-optimal for those with glaucoma, osteoporosis, or frequent nosebleeds. Additional anti-histamine-based nasal sprays such as azelastine may be used as adjunctive treatment; these require a doctor’s prescription.

• Eye Drops:  Most antihistamine eye drops are now available over-the-counter:  e.g. Pataday (olopatadine), which may be a hare more effective than Alaway (ketotifen). When using these, one must be careful to ensure that eye irritation is indeed suspected to be from allergies. These can trigger dryness as a side effect, thus potentially hindering rather than helping irritation if caused by another issue.

• Asthma-Based Remedies:  The tried-and-true albuterol inhaler is helpful for those who may have sporadic coughing fits or chest tightness related to allergies. However, albuterol only briefly loosens up the airway; it doesn’t reduce lung inflammation. For those with more chronic, regular asthma symptoms, prescribed steroidal or combination inhalers (eg Flovent, Advair, etc) used on an everyday basis can reduce inflammation and offer substantial benefit during triggering seasons. The oral prescription medication Singulair (montelukast) may also be an option for those who dislike the inhaler route.

• Natural Supplements:  My recommendation for allergic therapy in the homeopathic world is the plant-based flavonoid Quercetin. It reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and appears to function as an immune modulator, antihistaminic agent, and even potentially as an antiviral remedy. Doses of 250->500 mg up to twice/day are typically effective.

• IV Therapy:  We’ve countlessly seen benefit in allergy, sinus, and even asthma-related symptoms from the Myer’s cocktail, readily available as an option in our IV lounge  IV vitamin C not only results in an immune boost, but triggers and antihistamine effect at high doses, which has been reported in prior studies. The additional Magnesium component of the Myer’s cocktail acts as an anti-inflammatory agent and natural bronchodilator, thus helpful for airway-related symptoms. Caution in vitamin C administration is advised for those who suffer from kidney stones given the potential for this to increase risk of stone formation. For the general population, IV nutritional therapy is otherwise quite safe.

At BIÂN, we understand that pelvic health is an essential component of overall well-being and should never be a taboo topic. Pelvic floor dysfunction can manifest in various ways, impacting voiding, defecation, pelvic organ prolapse (POP), sexual function, and pelvic pain. Our Pelvic Health Program offers a holistic approach to address these issues through Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy, focusing on functional retraining to enhance muscle strength, endurance, power, and relaxation.

Addressing the Multifaceted Nature of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction

Our Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy program is designed to improve symptoms and enhance the quality of life for individuals experiencing pelvic floor dysfunction. By tailoring the treatment to meet the unique needs of each patient, we empower individuals to actively participate in their pelvic health journey. Through functional retraining, we aim to enhance pelvic floor muscle strength, endurance, power, and relaxation, providing a comprehensive solution to multifaceted pelvic health challenges.

Postpartum Care: Restoring Strength and Function

Pregnancy and childbirth can strain the pelvic floor muscles, leading to issues such as pelvic pain and sexual dysfunction. Our Pelvic Floor PT program focuses on rehabilitating these muscles through targeted exercises, manual therapy techniques, and feedback mechanisms to enhance strength, coordination, and function. Whether it's post-vaginal or cesarean delivery, our therapy helps women recover from pelvic floor trauma by promoting healing, reducing inflammation, and restoring strength and function to the pelvic floor muscles.

Enhancing Voiding and Defecation Function

^Issues with urinary and fecal incontinence, urgency, frequency, hesitancy, or retention can stem from pelvic floor muscle dysfunction. Our treatments target these challenges by improving the coordination and control of pelvic floor muscles during bladder and bowel function. Through a tailored regimen of exercises, feedback mechanisms, and behavioral strategies, patients learn to regulate urinary and bowel habits effectively, strengthen weak muscles, and relax overactive ones to improve voiding and defecation function.

Managing Pelvic Organ Prolapse with Strength and Support

Pelvic Organ Prolapse occurs when pelvic organs descend or protrude due to weakened pelvic floor support. Our treatment strategy focuses on strengthening the pelvic floor muscles to provide better support for the pelvic organs, reducing symptoms of prolapse and preventing further progression. Central to POP management are exercises targeting pelvic floor strength, endurance, and coordination, offering a comprehensive approach to pelvic organ support.

Alleviating Pelvic Pain and Enhancing Comfort

Chronic pelvic pain can have diverse causes within the pelvic region, including muscle tension, nerve sensitivity, or inflammation. Our Pelvic Floor PT techniques, such as manual therapy, stretching, relaxation exercises, and pain management strategies, work towards alleviating pelvic pain. By restoring proper muscle function, improving blood flow, and reducing muscle tension, our treatment plans help patients manage and reduce pelvic pain symptoms effectively.

Improving Sexual Function and Intimacy

Sexual dysfunction linked to pelvic floor issues can impact intimacy and quality of life. Our PFPT program targets sexual difficulties by enhancing muscle tone and control, reducing pain, and increasing awareness of pelvic sensations during sexual activity. Therapists also offer education on sexual anatomy, arousal, and relaxation techniques to improve sexual function and foster intimacy.

At BIÂN, we believe that pelvic health is an integral part of overall wellness and should be openly discussed and addressed. Our Pelvic Health Program offers a compassionate and comprehensive approach to addressing pelvic floor dysfunction, empowering individuals to embrace their pelvic health and well-being.

What is Yin Yoga?

Yin yoga is a restorative practice that involves holding gentle stretches for an extended period, typically around 5 minutes. This slow-paced approach encourages practitioners to focus on breathwork and meditative strategies, allowing the body to gradually open up and the mind to find clarity in the present moment.

How Does Yin Yoga Differ from Other Gentle Yoga Styles?

The most distinguishing feature of yin yoga is the prolonged duration of each restorative pose, contrasting sharply with other forms of gentle yoga such as Vinyasa or Hatha. While these styles often involve movement and flow, yin yoga emphasizes stillness and sustained stretching to access deeper layers of the body.

Origins and Philosophy of Yin Yoga

Originating in the late 1970s, yin yoga was developed by martial arts expert and yoga teacher Paulie Zink, drawing inspiration from Taoist yoga (Tao Yin). Initially used as a complement to other forms of movement, it has evolved into a holistic practice that integrates physical, mental, and spiritual elements.

Key Principles of Yin Yoga

• Physical: Yin yoga facilitates a slow and profound opening of the body, providing access to deeper connective tissues surrounding the joints and promoting relaxation of superficial muscles.
  

• Mental: The practice encourages the development of the ability to lean into challenges, fostering mental resilience and transformation through the guidance of skilled instructors.
  

• Spiritual: Embracing stillness in yin yoga offers an opportunity for inner healing and reconnection with one's inner self, especially in today's fast-paced world.
  

Benefits of Yin Yoga

Physically, consistent practice of yin yoga can lead to increased flexibility and improved body awareness. Mentally and emotionally, practitioners may experience reduced stress, enhanced mindfulness, and a heightened sense of presence.

Tips for Beginners

Yin yoga is accessible to individuals of all mobility levels and can be adapted using props and modifications. It serves as a valuable teacher, illuminating areas for growth and providing deep muscular relaxation, making it beneficial for everyone.

Getting Started with Yin Yoga

For those new to yin yoga, beginning with a skilled practitioner at a studio is recommended to fully experience the practice and receive guidance. Alternatively, practicing at home in a distraction-free space while following an online class can also be a wonderful starting point.

Incorporating yin yoga into your routine, even just once a week, can complement other forms of movement and contribute to holistic well-being. Whether you're seeking physical flexibility, mental clarity, or spiritual grounding, yin yoga offers a tranquil path to self-discovery and rejuvenation.

Remember, the journey of yin yoga is not about perfection, but rather about the willingness to embrace stillness and delve into the depths of body, mind, and spirit.

Meditation, a timeless practice celebrated for its profound impact on mental and emotional well-being, offers a sanctuary of calm in our fast-paced lives. At BIÂN, we prioritize the integration of meditation into daily routines, embracing its transformative potential to nurture a balanced and harmonious existence. In this guide, I will explore the nuances of morning meditation, shedding light on its benefits, ideal duration, recommended practices, and insightful tips for initiating a fulfilling meditation journey from the comfort of your home.

Embracing the Flexibility of Meditation Timing

The question often arises: what is the best time of day to meditate? The truth is, there is no one-size-fits-all answer. The beauty of meditation lies in its adaptability to fit seamlessly into diverse lifestyles. Whether it's the tranquil ambiance of early morning or the serene moments before bedtime, any time allocated for meditation, even just 10-15 minutes, is an invaluable investment in self-care. Long-term meditators exhibit denser gray matter, indicating enhanced cognitive flexibility and emotional resilience, emphasizing the boundless benefits of this practice regardless of the time of day.

The Morning Meditation Advantage

Meditating in the morning presents a gateway to embrace the day with tranquility and composure. By commencing the day with a peaceful interlude, you set the stage for a harmonious and centered mindset, thus paving the way for a more balanced and grounded experience throughout the day. Furthermore, the act of meditating in the morning allows for a deliberate and unhurried commencement to the day, mitigating the stress of time constraints and instilling a sense of purposeful intention.

Nurturing Your Inner Harmony: Ideal Duration for Meditation

For those embarking on their meditation journey, any duration is commendable, even a brief 5-minute session yields remarkable benefits. As you gradually familiarize yourself with the practice, extending the duration to 10-15 minutes allows for a deeper immersion into the healing alpha/theta state, amplifying the restorative effects on the mind and body. Occasionally, longer sessions, spanning up to 45 minutes, serve as therapeutic intervals for contemplation and introspection, especially during challenging phases of life. Remember, the essence of meditation transcends the quantitative aspect; the focus should revolve around embracing the practice with child-like curiosity and joy, devoid of self-imposed stress regarding duration or frequency.

Intention-Setting Meditations: A Morning Ritual

Intention-setting meditations, rooted in visualization and positive affirmation, evoke a sense of empowerment and alignment with one's aspirations. Envisioning your day unfolding harmoniously or visualizing a protective shield against negative energy are potent practices to foster a positive and resilient mindset. Embracing mantras that resonate with your innermost desires, such as "The people I’m looking for are looking for me," can infuse your day with purpose and positivity. Intention setting through visualization, although perceived as esoteric by some, mirrors the visualization practices embraced by professional athletes, underlining its efficacy in shaping personal narratives and outcomes.

Initiating a Home Meditation Practice: Practical Tips

Initiating a meditation practice within the comfort of your home beckons a world of tranquil possibilities. Whether seated on a chair, cushion, or even reclined on a bed, the key lies in cultivating a comfortable and undisturbed space for your practice. If embarking on this journey as a novice, guided meditations provide an anchoring point for the wandering mind, serving as a conduit to discern your preferred meditation styles. Embrace the aid of platforms such as Insight Timer, Calm, or YouTube for an array of recorded meditations to guide your introspective odyssey. Amidst the inevitable drifts of the mind, gently acknowledging the thoughts with a non-judgmental "Isn’t that interesting" serves as a subtle cue to realign your focus, thus breaking free from unconscious patterns and fostering mindfulness.

Empower Your Journey with Meditation

Meditation, a timeless ritual revered for its profound healing and centering attributes, beckons individuals to embark on a journey of self-discovery and tranquility. Embracing the fluidity of meditation timing, nurturing intentions through visualization, and fostering a nurturing home practice are pivotal elements in crafting a fulfilling meditation journey. Let us embark on this odyssey with unwavering curiosity and an open heart, savoring the resplendent moments of inner stillness and connection.

Black rice, also known as "Forbidden Rice," has captured the attention of health enthusiasts and culinary aficionados alike due to its unique flavor, rich nutrient profile, and striking black color. This ancient grain, which has been revered as a staple in many parts of Asia throughout history, offers a plethora of health benefits that set it apart from its white or brown counterparts.

What Makes Black Rice Unique?

Black rice boasts a distinctive taste and nutrient composition that distinguishes it from other varieties of rice. It is notably high in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which are commonly found in red and purple berries, grapes, plums, and cabbage. These antioxidants play a pivotal role in combating oxidative stress, a natural byproduct of metabolism that can become imbalanced due to suboptimal dietary and lifestyle factors.

Health Benefits of Black Rice

1. Antioxidant Richness: The standout feature of black rice lies in its exceptional antioxidant content, particularly the abundance of anthocyanins. These antioxidants play a crucial role in mitigating oxidative stress, thereby promoting overall well-being.
2. Abundant Fiber: Retaining its outer bran layer sets black rice apart as a rich source of dietary fiber. Consumption of black rice supports digestive health by enhancing regular bowel movements and promoting the growth of a robust gut microbiome.
3. Nutrient Dense: Black rice contains essential nutrients such as iron, copper, zinc, and vitamin E, contributing to a well-rounded and nourishing dietary choice.
4. Gluten Sensitivity: For individuals concerned about gluten sensitivity, black rice presents a nutritious alternative due to its gluten-free nature.

Incorporating Black Rice into Your Diet

While black rice offers numerous health benefits, it's advisable to rotate the grains in your diet to ensure a diverse nutrient intake. Daily consumption may lead to potential exposure to heavy metals, particularly arsenic, which can be associated with the ground and water where the rice is grown. To mitigate this risk, rinsing and soaking the rice before cooking is recommended.

Considerations and Cooking Tips

It's important to note that black rice generally requires a longer cooking time compared to white or brown rice. While this may pose a challenge for those seeking quick meal options, proper preparation techniques such as soaking or using a pressure cooker can help reduce cooking time while still reaping the nutritional rewards.

The remarkable qualities of black rice make it a valuable addition to a wholesome diet, offering a spectrum of health benefits that contribute to overall well-being. Its unique flavor, nutrient richness, and antioxidant prowess position it as a compelling choice for those seeking to elevate their culinary and nutritional experiences.

Dr. Ben Schuff is the Director of Naturopathy & Nutrition at BIÂN. He is a licensed naturopathic doctor (ND), Illinois Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN), a Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS) and a Licensed Acupuncturist. He earned his Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Biology from the University of Dayton, Ohio before completing his medical education at the National University of Natural Medicine (NUNM) in Portland, Oregon. He has also been trained in a system of medicine called Endobiogeny.

In the realm of skincare, the notion of a one-size-fits-all approach is rapidly becoming outdated. The rise of customized skincare protocols has emerged as a pivotal shift in the beauty industry, prioritizing personalized routines over generic product recommendations. At BIÂN Beauty, we understand the significance of delving into a tailored skincare regimen to address individual concerns and maximize the potential for radiant, healthy skin.

The crux of scrutinizing a skincare routine lies in the identification of ingredients that may be contributing to adverse symptoms or side effects. Rather than hastily diagnosing individuals with specific skin conditions like rosacea or acne, it is imperative to first eliminate potentially problematic ingredients. For instance, individuals experiencing persistent redness or visible capillaries may be unaware that certain ingredients and fragrances, such as caffeine, menthol, mint, peppermint, and camphor, have the propensity to increase microcirculation of blood in the skin, leading to the dilation of blood vessels around the nose and cheeks. These ingredients are commonly found in face washes, shaving cream, eye creams, and toners. Continued use of such products can result in inflammation and the degeneration of skin cells, exacerbating existing symptoms.

The significance of this personalized approach was underscored during the pandemic, as skincare gained unprecedented traction on social media. With the proliferation of misinformation from unreliable sources, many individuals found themselves grappling with the aftermath of misguided skincare practices. The repercussions were palpable, highlighting the vital need for accurate, personalized guidance in skincare routines.

By addressing symptoms and mitigating their impact, individuals can lay the groundwork for enhancing their skin's appearance and embarking on targeted treatments for concerns such as anti-aging and hyperpigmentation. Failing to alleviate symptoms first not only hinders progress but also runs the risk of exacerbating existing conditions, effectively undoing any potential improvements.

At BIÂN Beauty, we recognize the intrinsic value of customized skincare protocols, empowering individuals to curate routines tailored to their unique needs. Embracing this personalized approach sets the stage for a transformative journey towards vibrant, revitalized skin.

Join us in championing the pursuit of personalized skincare, where individualized protocols pave the way for genuine, enduring beauty.

Visit Anna Sanchez at BIÂN Beauty! www.livebian.com/beauty