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In this issue:
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New Views on Epilepsy
When most people think of an epileptic seizure,
they envision a person falling to the floor, twitching and jerking uncontrollably.
However, this dramatic form of a seizure (generalized tonic-clonic) is
only one type of epilepsy. There are many other forms that can manifest
so subtly so as to go unnoticed. The various forms of epilepsy can be treated
with innovative therapies including the ketogenic diet and vagal nerve
stimulation. The Edgar Cayce readings provide even more therapeutic
possibilities by focusing on the brain in the abdomen which may be the
source of many seizures.
In the medical literature, this model of epilepsy
is classified as abdominal epilepsy or visceral reflex epilepsy.
Meridian Institute is conducting research to explore the overlap between
Cayce's views on epilepsy and ideas in the medical literature. |
The Power of Garlic
Garlic has been in the news a lot lately.
This pungent little bulb that is a close relative of onions, scallions,
chives, and shallots is more than just a culinary powerhouse. The
healing power of garlic has a long historical tradition. Garlic has been
cultivated for at least 5,000 years. The early Egyptians ate it and
used it as a medicine. Romans used garlic to treat asthma, suppress
coughs, and expel intestinal parasites. Ancient Chinese physicians utilized
garlic to reduce fevers and fight against intestinal parasites and dysentery.
Modern medical science has now picked up the
scent of garlic by documenting numerous health benefits associated with
regular garlic consumption. This article provides some practical
tips for harnessing the power of garlic.
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The Abdominal Brain
Each of us has a brain in our gut. It
is the seat of a visceral intelligence that thrusts itself into our awareness
when we are afraid or angry. It is the deep knowing that signals
our true intentions, whether or not we are conscious of our own motivations.
Common expressions about gut feelings, intestinal fortitude, and our inability
to stomach something or someone point to the primacy of our visceral intelligence.
Sometimes we honor a courageous act by saying that it “took a lot of guts.”
In modern medicine, our gut brain is called
"the enteric nervous system." Edgar Cayce called it the "solar plexus
brain."
This article will inform you about the abdominal
brain and the scientific and metaphysical basis for its functioning.
With this knowledge, you can feel more confident about trusting your instincts
and paying more attention to your gut feelings. |
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Meditation Helps Irritable Bowel Syndrome
The Relaxation Response Meditation (RRM)
program developed by Harvard medical researcher Herbert Benson has been
shown to be helpful for irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). IBS studies conducted
by researchers at the Center for Stress and Anxiety Disorders (State University
of New York at Albany) indicate that a six week course of RRM decreases
symptoms in both the short- and long-term. Thirteen of sixteen IBS
patients in the initial study completed the six week program after being
matched into pairs and randomized to either a six week meditation group
or a six week wait list. All subjects assigned to the wait list were
subsequently treated. Patients in the treatment group were taught the meditation
technique and asked to practice it twice a day for fifteen minutes.
At the three-month follow-up, the patients
practicing RRM showed significant improvements in common IBS symptoms such
as flatulence, belching, bloating, and diarrhea compared to the patients
on the wait list. After one year, participants practicing RRM exhibited
significant reductions in abdominal pain, diarrhea, flatulence, and bloating.
The researchers concluded that RRM is a beneficial treatment for IBS in
both the short- and the long-term.
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True Health Disclaimer
A reader expressed displeasure at the disclaimer
printed in the True Health newslette, suggestingt that it was too "politically
correct" and did not stand up against the "pseudo science of Allopathy."
The reply focused on differing views on the best ways to promote change
in the health care system with the least chance of doing harm. Personal
empowerment in the context of cooperation and integration offer the optimal
opportunity for constructive change.
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Additional Resources
Each newsletter is linked to additional resources.
Here are some links for this issue.
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