Category Archives: Health

Ananda Yogathon: Get a 360-degree, Practical View of Yoga on 21st June

24th June 2024 Pune, Maharashtra, India This International Yoga Day (21st June), Ananda Yoga School of India (a part of Ananda Sangha) is offering a sunrise-to-sunset experience of Yoga. This would appeal to first-timers as well as long-term practitioners of Yoga. Structured into short sessions, the event provides an opportunity to sample a range of subjects and routines and develop a wider and deeper appreciation of the yogic lifestyle.

Ananda Yoga for Body, Mind and Soul

The event will be online over Zoom and is offered free of cost, but prior registration is required. Apart from the regional language (Hindi / Marathi / Tamil) session at 11 am, all other sessions will be in English.

Rooted in the teachings of Sri Sri Paramhansa Yogananda and designed by his disciple, Swami Kriyananda, Ananda Yoga is a deep yet gentle spiritual yoga practice that integrates body, mind, and soul. It spans asana, pranayam, meditation and affirmations, to achieve radiant health, prosperity, peace, and spiritual awakening.

According to Latha Emmatty Gupta, Director- Ananda Yoga School of India, “Ananda Yoga is much more than a physical practice. It is how you adapt and apply this ancient wisdom in daily life to find more peace and enhance all-round well-being. In that sense, Ananda Yoga is a work-in, rather than a work-out.”

Highlights of Ananda Yogathon (6:00 AM to 7:00 PM):

Surya Namaskar: Learn this immensely powerful technique, and combined with affirmation offer your salutations to the Sun.

Chanting: Open and expand the heart chakra with devotional chanting of mantras.

Asanas for Stress Relief and Heart Health: Guided by experienced teachers, these are customized Ananda Yoga routines to meet the demands of daily life.

Advanced Asanas: These energizing asana routines will take one into a deeper understanding and integration of body, mind and soul.

Restorative Yoga: This form of yoga is very relaxing and renews one both physically and mentally. Using props such as cushions and blocks enables holding poses much longer which calms the mind.

Kriya Yoga: Get introduced to the path of Kriya Yoga, an ancient technique of self-realization that Paramhansa Yogananda described as ‘the airplane route to God’.

Pranayam: It can be both a calming and energizing practice that clears the mind and helps you operate with focus and energy. Pranayam is a doorway to meditation and higher consciousness.

Guided Meditation: Meditate together with hundreds of other online participants, guided by the Kriyacharya and Spiritual Director of Ananda Sangha.

Yoga Sutras: Expand understanding of Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras and their application in daily life.

Neuroscience of Yoga: Dive into the neuroscience behind Yoga as well as catch up on the latest scientific research on benefits of yoga.

Ayurveda and Yoga: Develop an appreciation of Ayurveda, as a companion science of Yoga. Gain tips on how people can adapt their lifestyle based on body constitution.

Tools for Awakening Inner Power: The application of Yoga is where transformation can happen. Learn tools and techniques to apply yoga in everyday life.

A Holistic Yoga Classroom

Register now for this celebration of International Yoga Day and enjoy a taste of the multi-faceted nature of Yoga.

How Yoga & Walnuts May Enhance Heart Health

24th June 2024 Delhi, India A healthy, nutritious, and active lifestyle can go a long way in maintaining sound mental and physical health, and recent years have made us realize just how important it is to make health an utmost priority in our lives. So, this brings us to an important question: What does one do to stay fit and healthy in 2024? Integrative health coach Neha Ranglani has the answer: “A nutrition-rich diet, containing omega-3 ALA-rich walnuts, may help improve your cardiovascular health. Pair it up with yoga, which helps reduce stress, improve blood circulation, and control blood pressure levels, and you have a powerful combination for maintaining a healthy heart.”

California Walnuts and Yoga

And we couldn’t agree more! California walnuts, paired with the ancient practice of yoga offer complementary effects that can help not only our heart health but also our overall well-being.

Scroll down to read how yoga and walnuts benefit your heart:

1. Reduced stress

Yoga, an ancient Indian practice, involves a combination of body poses, breathwork, and meditation. This trio is known to be beneficial for our mind and body. Meanwhile, walnuts may help improve mood.1 These wonder nuts may be associated with lower depression symptoms, greater interest in activities, higher energy levels, better concentration, and greater optimism.2

2. Promote weight management

Obesity is one of the major risk factors for heart disease, and hence, weight management is key to protecting one’s self. Yoga and walnuts both promote weight management. A handful of walnuts contains 2.5g plant-based omega-3 ALA, 4g protein, 2g fiber, and several other essential nutrients.

Walnuts may have the potential to influence appetite hormones, suppressing hunger and making you feel satiated for longer. And if you feel full for longer, you avoid unnecessary and untimely cravings.3

3. Promote healthy gut

Studies suggest that walnuts enhance the growth of beneficial bacteria to ensure a healthy gut.4 And a healthy gut may be linked to a variety of health benefits, including digestion, metabolism, and the immune system.5 Meanwhile, yoga, through specific poses like Pavanamuktasana and Paschimottanasana, can help deal with symptoms of digestive disorders and improve overall gut health.

4. Improve cholesterol levels

Did you know: that eating walnuts may help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL) in our body?6 And while walnuts do that, yoga also supports good cholesterol levels with its healthy lifestyle and weight management properties.

Now that you have read about a few of the many benefits of yoga and walnuts for heart health, how about starting your day with a handful of California walnuts and 10-15 minutes of yoga (to begin with)? Your body and mind will thank you for this holistic approach towards a healthier, happier you!

References:

1Pribis P. Effects of Walnut Consumption on Mood in Young Adults-A Randomized Controlled Trial. Nutrients. 2016;8(11):668. doi:10.3390/nu81106682

2Arab L, Guo R, Elashoff D. Lower Depression Scores among Walnut Consumers in NHANES. Nutrients. 2019;11(2):275. doi:10.3390/nu11020275

3Stevenson JL, Paton CM, Cooper JA. Hunger and satiety responses to high-fat meals after high polyunsaturated fat diet: a randomized trial. Nutrition. 2017;41:14–23. doi:10.1016/j.nut.2017.03.008

4Baer/USDA/Gut Health/Jun 01 2018, Parhofer/Univ Munich/Gut Health/Feb 22 2018, Lamendella/Penn State/Gut Health/Dec 18 2021 (citations noted below in Health Research section)

5Wallace TC, Guarner F, Madsen K, et al. Human gut microbiota and its relationship to health and disease. Nutr Rev. 2011;69(7):392-403. doi: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2011.00402

6Guasch-Ferré M, Li J, Hu FB, et al. Effects of walnut consumption on blood lipids and other cardiovascular risk factors: an updated meta-analysis and systematic review of controlled trials. Am J Clin Nutr. 2018;108(1):174-187. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/nqy091.

Swedish Medical Center Announces Appointment of Scott Davis as President and CEO

Denver, CO, June 24, 2024 –– HealthONE, part of HCA Healthcare’s Continental Division, announced the promotion of Scott Davis, FACHE, to president and chief executive officer (CEO) of Swedish Medical Center effective June 3, 2024. Scott comes to Swedish from HCA Houston Healthcare Northwest, a 417-bed acute care hospital, where he was CEO for five years.

“Scott brings with him a wealth of experience and a passion for excellence,” said Chad Christianson, president and CEO of HealthONE. “His accomplishments while at HCA Houston Healthcare Northwest, including achieving Level II Trauma Center status, receiving Comprehensive Stroke Center certification from The Joint Commission (TJC), and developing a culture that was recognized by Modern Healthcare as a Best Places to Work, make him the perfect choice to lead Swedish Medical Center.”

As CEO of Swedish Medical Center, a Level I Trauma Center and American Burn Association verified Burn Center, Davis will oversee a number of complex, award-winning service lines. Swedish is a national leader in the area of neurosciences and has become the gold standard in stroke, neurology and neurosurgical care. Swedish was the first hospital in Colorado to be certified as a Comprehensive Stroke Center and is home to the Swedish Neuro Network, which leverages the quality and capabilities of Swedish with stroke/neuro care at five other HealthONE acute care hospitals, benefiting patients throughout the region.

Swedish is consistently recognized as a destination for exceptional care, earning 100 Top Hospital accolades from Fortune/PINC AI. Swedish was named among Healthgrades’ America’s 250 Best Hospitals for 2023 and received the prestigious Healthgrades Patient Safety Excellence Award. The hospital also holds a four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services and consistently receives “A” safety grades from the Leapfrog Group.

During his tenure at HCA Houston Healthcare Northwest, the hospital experienced substantial growth, improved quality, and top performance in employee and physician engagement. With his leadership, HCA Houston Healthcare Northwest was designated as a Magnet and Pathways to Excellence facility by the American Nurses Credentialing Center, one of only eight hospitals in the country to hold both designations. With HCA Healthcare for over 20 years, Davis served as CEO at Methodist Texsan Hospital and Methodist Ambulatory Surgical Hospital in San Antonio, Texas; Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Ogden Regional Medical Center in Ogden, Utah; and COO and Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at West Valley Medical Center in Idaho.

HealthONE’s Sky Ridge Medical Center Welcomes New President & CEO Eric Evans

Denver, CO, June 19, 2024 –HealthONE’s Sky Ridge Medical Center is pleased to welcome Eric Evans as its new president and CEO, effective today. Prior to being named to this position, Evans was the Chief Executive Officer and market President at Corpus Christi Medical Center (CCMC) in Corpus Christi, Texas. He succeeds Sky Ridge CEO Kirk McCarty, who was named CEO of HCA Healthcare’s Menorah Hospital in KS.

In his prior role for four years, Evans provided leadership and strategic direction for two acute care hospitals, three freestanding emergency centers, a cancer center, and a behavioral health hospital. CCMC experienced substantial service line growth during Evans’ tenure and improved colleague, physician and patient engagement.

“Eric has dedicated more than 28 years to HCA Healthcare, significantly contributing to our Gulf Coast Division through various leadership roles, including CEO of HCA Houston Healthcare Tomball and East Houston Regional Medical Center,” said Chad Christianson, President & CEO of HCA Healthcare’s HealthONE Continental Division. “Having worked with Eric in Houston, I can attest to his exceptional skills and leadership. I am pleased he will lead one of our premier HealthONE hospitals – Sky Ridge Medical Center.”

‌Evans graduated from the University of Texas at Dallas and earned a Master’s degree in Health Services Administration from George Washington University in Washington, DC. He and his wife Patty have two children, Tyler, 20, and Sarah, 17. He is looking forward to living and working in Douglas County.

Dr. Wes Heroman Announces Scholarship for Future Healthcare Innovators

Columbia, SC, June 18, 2024 — The Dr. Wes Heroman Scholarship for Healthcare Students is now accepting applications for its inaugural award cycle, offering a one-time award of $1,000 to a deserving student. This scholarship, established by the distinguished ophthalmologist Dr. Wes Heroman, is aimed at nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals who exhibit exceptional academic prowess, a deep passion for healthcare, and a commitment to personal and professional growth.

Scholarship Criteria and Application Details
To be eligible for the Dr. Wes Heroman Scholarship for Healthcare Students, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Educational Pursuit: Applicants must be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program related to healthcare or preparing to enter university with a focus on a medical degree.

Scholastic Excellence: The scholarship values outstanding academic achievements, seeking individuals who have demonstrated exceptional performance in their academic pursuits.

Passion for Healthcare: Prospective recipients must exhibit a profound dedication to the field of healthcare, showcasing an authentic passion for contributing positively to patient well-being.

Commitment to Personal Development: Candidates should embody a strong commitment to personal and professional growth, actively seeking opportunities to expand their knowledge and skills within the healthcare domain.

Essay Submission: Applicants are required to submit a compelling essay of no more than 1,000 words, responding thoughtfully to the following prompt: “Discuss a notable challenge currently faced by the healthcare industry and propose an innovative solution for addressing it effectively.”

Problem-Solving Aptitude: The selection process favors candidates who can demonstrate creative and resourceful approaches to problem-solving, highlighting their ability to identify and address complex issues within the healthcare sector.

Dr. Rozita Akhbari to Join Carolina Pediatrics of the Triad

Greensboro, NC, June 15, 2024 — Carolina Pediatrics of the Triad announces the expansion of their practice with the addition of Dr. Rozita Akhbari. Dr. Akhbari attended Iran University of Medical Science and completed her residency at SUNY Downstate Medical Center in Brooklyn, NY. Dr. Akhbari is married with two daughters. When not practicing medicine, she enjoys hiking, biking, traveling, cooking and trying new cuisines.

When asked her thoughts on joining the practice, Dr. Akbari said, “When we moved to Greensboro, I was looking for a medical home for my own kids and after thorough research I chose Carolina Pediatrics Of The Triad. I have been very impressed by the excellence, consistency, compassion, and convenience in care we always receive and when the chance became available, I was so thrilled to be part of this amazing team.”

Essential Travel Dental Tips for Summer Vacation

Fort Smith, AR, June 15, 2024 — As summer vacation season approaches, River Valley Smile Center is committed to helping families maintain their oral hygiene routines while traveling. With many people planning trips and adventures, it can be easy to overlook dental care. Their dental experts have compiled a list of practical travel dental tips to ensure everyone can keep their smiles healthy and bright, no matter where their summer plans take them.

Top Travel Dental Tips from River Valley Smile Center:

1. Pack the Essentials: Always travel with a dental care kit that includes a toothbrush, toothpaste, floss, and mouthwash. Opt for travel-sized products to save space in your luggage.

2. Maintain Your Routine: Stick to your regular brushing and flossing schedule. Aim to brush twice a day for two minutes and floss daily, even when you’re on the go.

3. Hydrate with Water: Drink plenty of water throughout your trip. Water not only keeps you hydrated but also helps rinse away food particles and bacteria that can lead to cavities and bad breath.

4. Smart Snacking: Choose tooth-friendly snacks like fresh fruits, vegetables, cheese, and nuts over sugary and acidic foods. These healthier options are less likely to cause tooth decay.

5. Use a Toothbrush Cover: Protect your toothbrush from germs and bacteria by using a ventilated cover. Ensure the brush dries completely between uses to prevent bacterial growth.

6. Emergency Preparedness: Know what to do in case of a dental emergency. Carry our contact information and look up the nearest dental office at your travel destination just in case.

7. Regular Check-ups: Schedule a dental check-up before your trip. This ensures your teeth are in good condition and allows your dentist to address any potential issues before you travel.

At River Valley Smile Center, they understand the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene, especially during the busy summer travel season. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy your vacation without compromising your dental health.

RGCIRC Emphasizes Reintegrating Women Breast Cancer Survivors

Gurgaon/New Delhi, June 14:Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre (RGCIRC), in partnership with PROJECT I AM ENOUGH – led by Siya Tayal, organized a Breast Reconstruction Awareness Program to destigmatize breast reconstruction surgery and empower cancer survivors with knowledge on rehabilitation into society, fulfilling their wishes and aspirations.

The global incidence of breast cancer is projected to increase from 2.3 million new cases in 2020 to surpass three million by the year 2040. The event highlighted the significance of breast reconstruction, a vital aspect of cancer recovery, and emphasized various techniques such as autologous tissue transfer using the body’s own skin and fat.\

By addressing the physical and emotional aspects of breast cancer survivorship, the event aimed to provide holistic support and guidance to individuals on their journey toward reclaiming control over their bodies and lives. This initiative brought together plastic and reconstructive surgeons, breast onco-surgeons, oncologists, psychologists and body positivity activists under one roof to ignite hope and empower survivors with knowledge about their options.

Dr. A K Dewan, Director – Surgical Oncology at RGCIRC gave insights into evolution of breast cancer care in India. “The landscape of breast cancer care in India has undergone significant transformation over the years. From early detection methods to advanced surgical techniques, we have made remarkable progress. Today, the focus is not only on treating the disease but also on improving the quality of life for survivors. Breast reconstruction plays a crucial role in this holistic approach, helping women regain their confidence and sense of self.”

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide, and the most common cancer among Indian women, comprising about 27% (164,000 per year) of all female cancers according to ICMR. Mastectomy, the surgical removal of one or both breasts, is a common treatment for breast cancer. While this procedure can save lives, it leaves women physically and emotionally scarred. Breast reconstruction emerges as a critical component in the holistic care of women who undergo mastectomies. Less than 1% undergo reconstruction in India in contrast to 30% and 20% in the UK and US respectively.

Breast reconstruction serves as a transformative procedure that helps restore a sense of normalcy and wholeness to breast cancer survivors. By recreating the breast mound, reconstruction enables women to regain their feminine identity and enhances their body image. Studies have shown that breast reconstruction contributes to a significant improvement in overall quality of life and mental health outcomes for breast cancer survivors.

Dr. Ranjan Arora, Senior Reconstructive and Micro vascular Surgeon – Surgical Oncology at RGCIRC talked about various techniques introduced in breast reconstruction.“Breast reconstruction has evolved with advancements in medical technology and surgical techniques. Today, we can offer procedures such as autologous tissue transfer, where a woman’s own skin and fat from tummy, back or thighs are used to recreate the breast. This method provides a more natural look and feel, and reduces the risk of rejection and complications.”

Led by esteemed breast care specialists, the panel delved deep into the nuances of breast reconstruction surgery, providing attendees with comprehensive information and insights. Discussions ranged from the technical aspects of the procedure to navigating the mental and emotional challenges associated with breast cancer.

Dr. Samarth Gupta, Attending Consultant, Reconstructive and Micro vascular Surgical Oncology at RGCIRC provided information on post operative care and reaching normalcy of life beyond cancer. “The aim is not just to restore physical appearance but also to address the psychological impact of cancer. Through awareness and education, we aim to empower survivors to make informed decisions about their post-cancer journey. Post-operative care is crucial in ensuring a smooth recovery and helping survivors reintegrate into their daily lives with confidence.”

The panel seen the participation of other prominent breast oncologists like Dr Rajeev Kumar Sr. Consultant & Chief of Breast Services, RGCIRCand Dr Vaishali Zamre, Senior Consultant & Unit Head (Breast Cancer Surgery, Unit II), RGCIRC. The organizing committee led by Dr. Samarth Gupta and Dr. Nikita Gupta, Visiting Consultant, RGCIRC played a key role in making the event successful.

The event also served as a platform for survivors to connect with each other, share experiences, and find support in a community of individuals who understand their journey firsthand.\

As breast cancer awareness continues to grow, initiatives like the Breast Reconstruction Awareness Program play a crucial role in ensuring that survivors receive holistic care that addresses both their physical and emotional needs. By fostering a supportive environment and providing access to information and resources, such programs pave the way for a brighter, more hopeful future for survivors.

Chicagoland Dealer Group Raises Over $120,000 in May for Pediatric Brain Cancer Research

Schaumburg, IL, June 14, 2024 — The Steve Napleton Auto Group, in collaborative efforts with employees and customers, raised over $123,000 in May towards the Violet Foundation for Pediatric Brain. This money will help fund research and support dozens of families whose children are currently being treated.

Brain cancer claims the lives of more children than any other childhood cancer. The Violet Foundation for Pediatric Brain Cancer seeks to change that. Founded in 2022, the Violet Foundation strives to raise and provide greater resources and support for scientific research and clinical trials, specifically focused on improving survival rates for pediatric brain cancer patients. Sadly, only 4% of federal funding allotted by the U.S. goes toward pediatric cancers—the Violet Foundation has committed itself to addressing this issue head-on.

The Violet Foundation for Pediatric Brain Cancer was founded by the Napleton family in memory of Violet Napleton, who passed away at three years old from Diffuse Intrinsic Pontine Glioma (DIPG) — a form of pediatric brain cancer that has less than 1% survival rate and no effective treatment. To honor Violet’s memory, they are now devoted to raising money for pediatric brain cancer research and supporting patient families undergoing treatment. The Violet Foundation urges everyone to take inspiration from Violet’s fight and join their efforts to end this cancer once and for all.

The Napleton Family of Dealerships have been active in supporting the fight against pediatric brain cancer since Violet’s diagnosis. The Steve Napleton Auto Group has raised over $400,000 towards the Violet Foundation since October 2022. Because of this success, the Violet Foundation has provided critical support to over 100 families with children undergoing brain tumor treatment, and co-funded eight research efforts in the fight against pediatric brain cancer. The Steve Napleton Auto Group will continue their fundraising efforts again in October in honor of Violet’s sixth birthday.