#World Journal of Physical therapy and Rehabilitation

[thesakuragarnet]

Suffocating in the Afterglow

Summary: Touya spent most of his time writing. His therapist told him it was the best outlet. He had been journaling ever since…he’d been journaling…well…everything. Every intrusive thought that he had…every negative thought that popped into his brain…he wrote it down. He wrote until he felt sick…and then again until he felt better. And…unfortunately…he’d also kept a journal that was specifically about Keigo…which Keigo had found…which is why they were in this fight.

DabiHawksWeek2024 Prompt Four: Post-War

THIS WORK IS 18+ ONLY! TAGS BENEATH THE KEEP READING SECTION

Word Count: 2,801 words

AO3 link

Tags: DabiHawks, Final War Arc spoilers, Post-War, angst, bl00d, DabiHawksWeek2024, swearing, hurt/comfort, soft DabiHawks, they both have issues but they love each other

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Touya knows he started this fight somehow. Keigo wasn’t supposed to find that journal. It was probably a number of things built up. Tensions had still been high ever since they got back together…after Touya was placed in a rehabilitation facility. Surprisingly, he’d been bailed out by his family, who begged for a lighter sentence from the Commission pending the mandatory two-year rehabilitation. To Touya…it felt more like deconstruction and brainwashing…the way they worked to strip him of his ideals…of his convictions…of his “villainous tendencies”. That was just the general rehabilitation that was standard for villains seeking to re-enter society. Next came therapy…physical and mental. At one point, his skin had once again been replaced, and he was prescribed medication to mute his Quirk. He was also given a robotic arm to replace the one that had been obliterated in the final war. When he finally got out of prison and rehab, the last person he expected to be waiting for him was Keigo Takami. 

It took time and effort, but they’d moved into a little apartment by themselves, away from prying eyes, living lives as normal civilians in a post-war world. Keigo worked at an insurance agency (some cushy job that the Commission gifted him as compensation for losing his wings completely), and Touya…well…no one wanted to hire an ex-villain with a kill count upwards of thirty…even if now he was just a scrawny, half-blind threat to no one but himself. Not that he could really leave the house anyway…not with how physically shit he felt. While Touya’s mind was struggling to heal, his body was having even more of a catch-up. Every organ had been damaged for the second time in his life…and the doctors had done everything they could. His nerves were fried so much that he could barely feel Keigo’s hands roaming his body…he missed it. It was still muted before the war…but…it felt more real. Part of Touya feels like he’s just living in a simulation, trapped within the empty nightmares of his past, but the realness of Keigo’s love always brings him back to earth. Keigo always cooks dinner when he gets home, and Touya always attempts to pack lunch for him to take to work in the morning. They focus on the little things in their lives that they never used to partake in…that they never got the option to partake in. The hero and villain were forcibly transformed into two everyday civilians. 

Touya spent most of his time writing. His therapist told him it was the best outlet. He had been journaling ever since. He’d been journaling…well…everything. Every intrusive thought that he had…every negative thought that popped into his brain…he wrote it down. He wrote until he felt sick…and then again until he felt better. And…unfortunately…he’d also kept a journal that was specifically about Keigo…which Keigo had found in a drawer when he came home from work…which is why they were in this fight. 

“‘All Keigo talks about is work and I’m not sure we have anything in common?’ ‘How can I live with myself when the man I love killed one of my best friends?’ ‘Sometimes I think about disappearing…and how much it would hurt Keigo…and I can’t decide if I would care’ ‘Keigo made me upset this morning. I should’ve killed him’?! What the FUCK, Touya?! What is all this shit?!” Keigo shouts angrily, eyes filled with an icy mixture of fury and terror. Touya’s standing in the doorway of their bedroom, legs feeling like jelly, stomach dropping, heart bursting in his chest as bloody tears well up in his scarline. He still cries blood…they couldn’t repair his fucked up tear ducts despite all the other surgeries. Keigo’s eyes continue scanning page after page…and each one, he rips out and crumples it in his hand. Each paper tear makes Touya flinch. It makes him sick. He didn’t expect Keigo to be so infuriated…if anything…he was expecting some sort of remorse. Some sort of closure. After all, it was Keigo’s fault that he felt this way. It was Keigo who betrayed him first. He’s waiting…waiting for Keigo to finally reach the center of the journal…two pages that Touya often came back to in his darkest moments…especially after fights like this one. It’s two pages of things he swore he’d never talk about with Keigo…two pages of facts that he can barely live with.

“How long have you been hiding this from me?! I mean, I know you have these journals from therapy, but seriously, what the fuck, Touya?! It’s like you don’t even care about-”

‘There it is,’ Touya thinks, swallowing a sob as Keigo stops his vitriolic rant short, eyes scanning the two pages that have been scrawled over repeatedly with the words “Keigo should hate me. I deserve it. Keigo hates me. I hate myself. I’m the reason Keigo doesn’t have his wings. My fault. My fault.” The rant rambled on, but the gist was the same. Dark, dark pen marks…scratching out his own name with black ink. Touya can’t look his partner in the eye, and he stares at the floor, lip trembling, wishing he could rip off his skin for good once and for all. Keigo’s gaze lifts from the pages, anger replaced with concern; he can’t help his old tendencies to completely disregard himself when someone needs help…and Touya quite clearly, desperately needs help. Touya’s glasses fog up…and…he realizes that he’s finally crying. Hot crimson tears drip down his face, and he feels like his chest is caving in on itself. With a strangled cry, Touya collapses, falling to his knees and putting his forehead down on the floor as he pulls at his hair. 

“I-I’m sorry!” He cries out over and over between sobs as the white strands start coming loose in his fingers. 

Thunk.

Keigo drops the journal. 

“Shhhhh, shhhhh,” He whispers, running to Touya and squatting down beside him, frantically trying to grab at his hands so he stops tearing his hair out. Touya struggles for about five seconds before he gives up, still keeping his head down. 

“Fuck, Touya, stop it!” He harshly orders, holding his wrists tightly. Touya shakes, waves of pure anxiety and muted aches rolling through his body. He’s not supposed to get this worked up anymore; it’s dangerous for him. 

“I don’t…I don’t want to think those things,” Touya’s voice rasps out, choking on his own tears and spit as he gasps between agonized wails. “I…I…I’m sorry!” He cries out, unable to bring himself to look Keigo in the eyes. He wishes he could just disappear into the ether. He wishes he never survived Sekoto…wishes AFO had never found him…wishes he’d never met Keigo in the first place because then he would’ve never experienced romance and then the visceral heartbreak that inevitably follows it. He doesn’t know why he thought any of this would work. He’s a fucking monster. He’s always been a monster. Born into a body that was wrong in so many ways. He was a mistake. A failed experiment. A monstrosity. Why should Keigo love him? After everything? Touya almost screams when he feels Keigo’s calloused hand rubbing his back…he can feel the anger in it…anger behind the urge to comfort Touya. Touya hates this about Keigo. Even when he’s mad, he’ll still do the right thing. It doesn’t make sense…especially when Touya can never do that. He can’t not give in to his emotions. He’s always been this way. Why does it all come so fucking easy to Keigo? It’s not fair…it’s not fair…

“Touya?” Keigo repeats his lover’s name, trying to bring him out of whatever sudden panic he’s been consumed by. He can’t pull him out of it. He’s done this before; it’s almost always impossible to pull him out of it. He’s just gotta wait until it’s over…all he has to do is breathe and hold him until it’s over. 

“Touya?” Keigo says again, but Touya’s clearly not in his right mind right now, chest heaving and blood flowing down his face, refusing to lift his head off the floor.

“I-I-I,” Touya stammers, unable to form a sentence as he tries to avoid hyperventilating. His cloudy eyes unfocus even more, and Touya sniffles before mumbling:

“I wanna go home.”

Keigo blinks.

“You are home,” Keigo replies uneasily. 

“I wanna go home and play with Natsuo,” Touya whines like a child, and Keigo’s posture stiffens. 

This happened occasionally…Touya would spontaneously experience regression. It came in waves, only whenever he was under extreme stress. It was a side effect of everything that had happened…hell, it had even happened when he was burning himself to death on the battlefield, fighting his family. Keigo gently spins Touya around and takes his chin in his hands, gently lifting it up to look at him. Touya seems to be staring through him, eyes distant and bottom lip trembling into a pout. A deep intrinsic part of Touya wishes so desperately that he could fully grasp the glow of his lover’s gorgeous golden eyes. His vision hadn’t been the same since Sekoto, but at least before the final war, he’d been able to grasp the beauty of Keigo’s eyes clearly up close.

Keigo remembers the vibrant colors Touya’s eyes used to have, like they held the oceans themselves within them. If he squints, he can still see the turquoise sheen glittering behind the white glaze. Keigo knows if he called any of Touya’s siblings…if he called Rei…that they would rush to aid immediately during one of Touya’s breakdowns. But…he’s not sure he wants that right now. He’s the one who used to be the number two hero. He’s the one that should be helping Touya get through this. With a sigh that holds a thousand words, he pulls Touya in for a hug, one hand at his back and the other at the back of his head, cradling it. 

“I’m right here, Touya. I’m right here,” Keigo whispers, trying to quiet his own vexed mind. Anger still boils in his blood, but…the years that Touya was in rehab, he realized just how much he cared about the ex-villain. He needs help right now…and being angry will just make everything worse.

“I wanna apologize to Mom,” Touya snivels, his voice sounding muffled in Keigo’s chest.

“You already did, baby. Everyone’s forgiven you…I’ve forgiven you,” Keigo hushes, running one hand through Touya’s soft fluffy locks and rubbing his back with the other. Touya shudders, bloody tears dripping down his face and staining Keigo’s sweater as he desperately tries to get ahold of himself. 

“You’re safe, starlight. I’ve got you,” Keigo hums softly, rocking back and forth on his heels as he caresses his lover, trying to provide the comfort he’d been deprived of for the majority of his life. 

“I don’t…feel good,” Touya whimpers, shaking and crying like a toddler as he leans into Keigo’s embrace. His twisted, aching heart that’s been broken and mended through the years throbs in his chest, at risk of shattering yet again. He feels so worthless…he feels…vulnerable…and... 

Keigo senses Touya fully deadweight in his arms…and goes into panic mode. 

“Touya?” Keigo blurts, pushing him backward to look him in the eyes before realizing that Touya fainted. 

“Goddamnit,” Keigo chokes out, tears welling up in his eyes as he pulls Touya close, cradling him as he picks him up off the floor bridal style. Touya’s body hasn’t been holding up very well; what he lacked in physical feeling he made up for tenfold emotionally and mentally…which didn’t bode well when he became so overcome with anxiety that he’d pass out. Keigo stares at Touya’s unconscious form…looking so serene…and so exhausted. Truth be told, he doesn’t know how much longer he has with Touya; if he keeps putting stress on his heart…Keigo doesn’t even want to imagine what might happen.

The blonde grunts as he stands up, walking to the bedroom with the love of his life in his arms. Carefully, he sets Touya down on their bed before walking into the bathroom, running warm water over a rag. He returns to the bedside, gently blotting the streaks of blood off of Touya’s face. Through it all, he never stirs.

“What am I gonna do with you?” Keigo sighs as he stares at his partner. He pushes the snowy strands of hair plastered to Touya’s sweaty forehead out of his face. He hates this situation…the rampant raging hellstorm that their lives have always been…that they will forever be…and yet…their love transcends it all. Through the unrelenting torrent, their love prevails. Fate has tried to tear them apart over the years…throwing them in opposite directions and snapping them back together in an explosive apocalyptic collision. Somehow, they always find each other when the smoke clears, running back to embrace in the middle. 

Keigo climbs into bed beside Touya, resting on his side to watch over him, eyes locked on the simple staggering rise and fall of his chest. Keigo pulls the comforter over the both of them, scooting closer to press a soft kiss to Touya’s temple.

“I love you…so much,” Keigo murmurs wistfully, golden eyes softly boring into the ex-villain. His heart twists…the hospital workers and rehabilitation staff keep insisting that Touya will still live a full life despite everything that’s happened, but that doesn’t stop Keigo from worrying. Ever since the war, his optimistic persona has disintegrated. 

He’s lost everything…his mentor…his career…his Quirk…his family…his life…he can’t lose Touya, too…

…

…

When Touya regains consciousness, it’s already the next morning. He slept through the night after passing out; his body desperately needed a recharge. The white-haired man sleepily blinks awake, turning to see Keigo sitting up next to him in their bed, eyes glued to the TV as he sips a cup of coffee. What Touya can’t see are the dark circles under Keigo’s sunken eyes from staying up all night watching over his partner. The blonde’s attention flickers to Touya immediately, and he reaches over, grabbing a bottle from the nightstand as he helps Touya sit up. 

“Drink,” Keigo mumbles, his voice scratchy and breathy. Touya eagerly takes the bottle and gulps it down slowly. Whatever it is, he can’t taste it, but it makes him feel like he’s alive again. The memories of last night come floating back into his mind, and Touya takes a deep breath, trying not to dissolve into another fit. 

“I’m sorry,” He whispers under his breath, but Keigo doesn’t answer. He sits with it, letting the past twelve-something hours settle deep and heavy in his chest. Keigo leans over Touya, cupping the side of his face before tenderly connecting their lips. Touya shudders, hands instinctively wrapping around the back of Keigo’s neck, massaging the scar that spreads down to his entire back. His gut reaction every time Keigo kisses him is to pull him close…close as humanly possible…to make sure he never pulls away first. After a few seconds, Touya releases his grip.

“You weren’t the one who took my wings. All For One did. Please…don’t blame yourself,” Keigo sniffs, swallowing hard. He doesn’t want to cry in front of Touya…not right now. Touya inhales sharply, trying his best to listen to Keigo’s words…to believe them…and ignore what his own darkness vehemently reminds him. 

“I…I love you, Keigo…I promise…I really do love you,” Touya’s voice breaks, speaking with his tattered heart.

Keigo, once again, doesn’t answer him right away. Keigo knows how much Touya loves him… how much he’s always loved him. If he didn’t, Keigo’s betrayal during the Paranormal Liberation War wouldn’t have affected Touya so viscerally. If he didn’t, they wouldn’t be sitting in this bed together after everything they’ve been through. Their relationship is…complicated. It’s always been complicated. Touya and Keigo are two separate sides of the same coin…of course it’s not going to be easy. Keigo knew this when he’d decided to show up with flowers when Touya graduated rehab. Keigo knew this when some of the most instrumental people in his life tried to talk him out of it. Despite everything, they are making this chaos-filled trainwreck work. And, most importantly…they’re both trying. They both want the trainwreck to work. Keigo brushes back Touya’s hair from his face before murmuring:

“I love you too, firefly.”

[phumelelanene]

Navigating the Mind

I recently had the chance to dive into the world of mental health and occupational therapy through the lens of the movie "A Beautiful Mind" (2001). It's incredible how a film can take you on an emotional rollercoaster and leave you with profound insights.

The movie tells the story of John Nash, a brilliant mathematician grappling with schizophrenia. His journey, filled with delusions and hallucinations, paints a vivid picture of the complexities of mental health conditions. It's safe to say that watching Nash's struggles and triumphs has forever changed the way I view this field.

Nash's life, dominated by his mental health condition, serves as a stark reminder of the occupational barriers individuals with mental health challenges face. As an occupational therapy (OT) student, I've come to understand the crucial role we play in breaking down these barriers. Our mission is to help people like Nash regain their independence and find meaning in their daily lives. "A Beautiful Mind" reinforced the idea that there's no one-size-fits-all approach – customized interventions are key.

In my own experiences working with clients battling mental health issues, I've seen firsthand how conditions like schizophrenia can lead to social isolation and make everyday tasks seem insurmountable. One client, much like Nash, struggled with auditory hallucinations that disrupted their ability to concentrate on basic activities. To help them, I had to adopt a holistic approach tailored to their unique needs.

The film simultaneously challenged and reinforced my understanding of mental health and occupational therapy. It reiterated that mental health conditions are intricate and can significantly impact a person's life. It underscored the importance of empathy and individualized care because everyone's journey is uniquely their own.

On the flip side, it pushed me to ponder the limitations of medical models in addressing mental health. Nash's recovery wasn't just about medication; it was about social support and his own resilience. This aligns with the holistic nature of occupational therapy, where we consider not only the physical but also the psychological and social aspects of well-being.

Throughout the movie, I couldn't help but wonder about the role OT could have played in Nash's life. We're trained to assess and address the impact of mental health conditions on daily activities. In Nash's case, an OT could have helped him develop coping strategies, manage symptoms, and adapt his environment to support his goals.

The film also shed light on the stigma surrounding mental illness. As OT students and future practitioners, we've seen how the lack of social support can worsen mental health issues. Part of our job is encouraging clients to connect with supportive friends, family, or support groups. It's a way to break down stigma and promote understanding, creating safe spaces for those battling mental health challenges.

Watching "A Beautiful Mind" has truly transformed my perspective as an OT student. It emphasized the importance of empathy, individualized care, and tackling occupational barriers in mental health rehabilitation. As I continue on my occupational therapy journey, I'm dedicated to advocating for the needs of individuals facing mental health challenges and helping them find meaning in their lives.

American Occupational Therapy Association's (AOTA) official website's mental health resources page - www.aota.org/mental-health-resources

A Beautiful Mind" a video where John Nash experiences a particularly challenging moment due to his schizophrenia https://youtu.be/ehhy-_Cg4QU?si=cK9QWvqM-pGacnxc

References:

1. American Occupational Therapy Association. (2014). What is occupational therapy? Retrieved from https://www.aota.org/About-Occupational-Therapy.aspx

2. American Occupational Therapy Association. (2021). Occupational therapy practice framework: Domain and process. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 75(Supplement_2). https://doi.org/10.5014/ajot.2021.75S200

Goffman, E. (1963). Stigma: Notes on the management of spoiled identity. Prentice-Hall.

[tailwindpets]

Faster Recovery or Just a Comfort Aid? The Truth About Dog Knee Braces

Imagine this: your dog, who’s always been full of energy, starts limping after a long walk. It’s concerning, right? Maybe you notice they avoid jumping on the couch, or they struggle to climb stairs. As a loving dog owner, you may be faced with a tough decision—should you get them a dog knee brace, or is this just an unnecessary expense? It’s a question many dog owners ask, and the truth is, the role of a dog knee brace is more complex than it seems.

The Purpose of Dog Knee Braces

The primary function of dog braces is to provide support for dogs recovering from injuries, surgeries, or dealing with conditions like arthritis or Luxating Patella. These braces are designed to stabilize the knee joint, reduce pain, and prevent further damage. In theory, they allow your dog to maintain mobility without putting undue stress on their injured leg.

But here’s where things get a little murky: are dog knee braces truly a recovery tool, or are they more of a comfort aid?

Recovery vs. Comfort: What Does Science Say?

Studies on knee braces for dogs are limited, but some research points to the fact that they can indeed help speed up recovery in certain circumstances. For example, a study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association found that knee braces can help reduce the likelihood of post-surgery complications by providing additional stability and alleviating pain (1). This is particularly true for dogs recovering from surgeries like ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) repair.

However, not all experts are sold on the idea that dog knee braces contribute significantly to faster recovery. Some suggest that while they may help comfort your dog, they are not a magic solution for healing. “Knee braces for dogs can certainly offer temporary relief and help with comfort, but they don’t replace the need for proper rehabilitation and rest,” says Dr. Linda D. Fisher, a veterinary orthopedic surgeon.

What Makes Dog Knee Braces Different?

When considering a dog brace, it’s essential to understand the differences in types. Custom-fit braces are often recommended because they provide better support and are tailored to your dog’s specific injury. Off-the-shelf braces may not offer the same level of protection and could even be uncomfortable for your dog.

Another key factor is how the brace affects your dog’s natural movement. For example, knee braces designed for dogs with Luxating Patella (a dislocation of the kneecap) often have an adjustable strap system to limit excessive knee rotation, which can help prevent further dislocations. This added support can make a world of difference in terms of mobility and comfort.

Are They Worth It?

This brings us to the big question: are dog knee braces worth the investment? For many dog owners, the answer depends on the condition your dog is dealing with. If your dog is suffering from mild arthritis or has undergone surgery, a knee brace can provide significant comfort and promote healing. According to a survey conducted by the American Kennel Club, 62% of dog owners who used a dog knee brace reported seeing noticeable improvements in their dog’s comfort levels and mobility (2).

On the other hand, if your dog is dealing with more severe issues, a brace may just be a temporary solution. In cases like these, combining a knee brace with physical therapy, weight management, and other treatments will likely yield the best results.

Conclusion: Comfort or Recovery?

So, is the dog knee brace just a comfort aid, or can it actually speed up recovery? The truth lies somewhere in between. While not a miracle cure, a well-fitted knee brace for dogs can definitely help your dog feel more comfortable during their recovery and provide added protection. However, for a faster recovery, it’s crucial to combine the brace with other veterinary treatments and strategies.

When in doubt, consult with your vet. They can help you determine the best approach for your dog’s unique needs. After all, the goal is the same: ensuring your dog stays happy, healthy, and mobile.

Sources:

Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association – Study on the impact of knee braces in post-surgery recovery.

American Kennel Club (AKC) – Survey on the effectiveness of knee braces for dogs.

[sumoshopstore]

Why Nintendo Wii Accessories Are Worth the Investment

The Nintendo Wii, since its release in 2006, has remained a beloved gaming console, celebrated for its innovative motion controls and extensive library of games. Over the years, the Wii has gained a loyal following, partly due to its unique accessories that enhance the gaming experience. In this article, we explore why investing in Nintendo Wii accessories is a wise choice, both for avid gamers and casual players alike.

Enhancing Gameplay with Motion Controls

One of the standout features of the Nintendo Wii is its motion-sensing capabilities, which revolutionized how games are played. The Wii Remote, often referred to as the "Wiimote," allows players to interact with games in a way that feels natural and intuitive. Whether you're swinging a tennis racket, steering a car, or casting a fishing line, the Wiimote translates real-world actions into on-screen movements, creating an immersive gaming experience.

However, the magic of the Wii Remote is amplified with the addition of accessories like the Wii MotionPlus. This attachment enhances the Wiimote's sensitivity and accuracy, making movements more precise. For games that require intricate motion control, such as "The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword," the Wii MotionPlus is indispensable, providing a level of control that standard controllers simply can't match.

Broadening the Horizon with Game-Specific Accessories

Beyond enhancing motion controls, the Nintendo Wii boasts a variety of game-specific accessories that can elevate your gameplay. Take the Wii Wheel, for instance. Designed for racing games, this accessory transforms the Wiimote into a steering wheel, offering a more realistic driving experience in games like "Mario Kart Wii." Similarly, the Wii Zapper, a gun-shaped accessory, adds a layer of immersion to shooter games, allowing players to aim and fire with greater authenticity.

Moreover, the Wii Balance Board opens up a whole new realm of possibilities. Originally packaged with "Wii Fit," this accessory tracks your balance and weight, enabling a range of fitness activities and games. From yoga and strength training to fun balance games, the Wii Balance Board makes exercising enjoyable and accessible.

Catering to a Wide Audience

The Nintendo Wii's appeal extends beyond traditional gamers. Its intuitive controls and diverse accessory lineup make it accessible to players of all ages and skill levels. Families can enjoy multiplayer games together, with each member finding something that suits their interests. For instance, while younger players might be entertained by games like "Wii Sports," which utilize basic motion controls, older players can dive into more complex titles that benefit from advanced accessories.

Furthermore, the Wii's fitness games and accessories like the Wii Balance Board have made it a popular choice for individuals looking to incorporate physical activity into their daily routine. According to a study published in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science, using the Wii Balance Board for exercise can improve balance and coordination, making it a valuable tool for rehabilitation and fitness.

Long-Term Value

Investing in Nintendo Wii accessories isn't just about enhancing the current gaming experience; it's also about long-term value. These accessories are designed with durability in mind, ensuring they stand the test of time. Even years after their initial purchase, many Wii accessories remain functional and relevant, particularly as the console maintains its popularity among retro gaming enthusiasts.

Additionally, the versatility of Wii accessories extends their usability. Many of these accessories are compatible with the Wii's successor, the Wii U, allowing for continued enjoyment even as gaming technology evolves. This backward compatibility means that an investment in Wii accessories today can continue to provide value in the future.

Fun Factor

Let's not forget the sheer fun factor that Nintendo Wii accessories bring to the table. The console's unique design encourages creative gameplay that often leads to laughter and memorable moments. Whether you're trying to outdo your friends in a heated game of "Wii Sports Tennis" or balancing precariously on the Wii Balance Board, the joy and entertainment these accessories provide are unparalleled.

In fact, some accessories have inspired creative uses beyond their intended purpose. For example, the Wii Wheel has been repurposed by some crafty players as a steering wheel for driving simulators on other platforms, demonstrating the ingenuity and adaptability of Wii accessories.

Reference: Journal of Physical Therapy Science. "The effect of a Nintendo Wii Fit exercise program on gait, balance, and quality of life in people with Parkinson's disease." (2015).

Conclusion: SumoShopStore – Your One-Stop Shop for Nintendo Wii Accessories

In conclusion, investing in Nintendo Wii accessories is a decision that pays dividends in enhanced gameplay, broader audience appeal, and long-term value. These accessories not only enrich your gaming experience but also offer unique ways to enjoy the console, whether through more precise motion controls or game-specific enhancements.

For those looking to expand their Wii accessory collection, SumoShopStore offers a wide range of high-quality options to choose from. With their extensive selection and commitment to customer satisfaction, SumoShopStore is the go-to destination for all your Nintendo Wii accessory needs. Dive into the world of Wii accessories and unlock the full potential of your gaming adventures.

[perfectlyyoungtimetravel]

Tech and innovation Tuesdays

Today I drew Bessie Blount Griffin. She was born on November 24th in 1914. In Hickory (Now Chesapeake), Virginia. She unfortunately had to discontinue her elementary education in the 6th grade, but later she earned a GED after her family moved to New Jersey. She studied nursing at the Community Kennedy Memorial Hospital in Newark, while they were developing a passion in the field of physical therapy (although the profession was not formalized and established until her her birth).She attended Panzer College of Physical Education (now Montclair State University) and Union County Junior College (Union County College now) where she would obtained certification in physical therapy. As one of the few African American physical therapists at the time, she blended her interpretive dance, her hobby, to enhance her patient's treatments.Unfortunately the World War II, thousands of American soldiers in need of physical therapy as they returned to the US. Bessie practiced at various veterans' hospitals restoring physical function to wounded soldiers (since mostly of them became amputees due to their injuries). Recognizing that much of the equipment in use at the time was not really great, Bessie found innovative ways to rehabilitate her patients. In particular, she helped arm amputees compensate by teaching them to use their feet. She also created a food receptacle equipped with an electrical motor that propelled food through a protruding tube which was inserted into the patient's mouth as they were sitting upright,it was called 'Portable Receptacle Support' to which she received patent for on April 24th in 1951. 3 years later after she filed her patent and that same year she got married to Thomas Griffin and the two would have a son called Philip.In 1952. The French Government purchased the patent rights of the Portable Receptacle Support and they put it into widespread use in military hospitals across the country and in some of its colonies. This ingenious apparatus positioned her as one of the earliest inventors in the burgeoning field of physical therapy.Bessie also invented a disposable cardboard emesis basin, a device that is still standard in Belgian hospitals today. In 1953. She was the first black woman to appear on the tv program 'The Big Idea' which exposed her inventions to a popular audience. In 1969. Bessie began a second career in forensics as a chief examiner for police department in Norfolk and Portsmouth, Virginia. She was also the first American woman admitted as a student at the Document Devision of the Metropolitan Police Forensic Science Laboratory in London, England (specifically Scotland Yard) in 1977. She maintained a private practice as a consultant to law enforcement and law firms on legal strategy and procedure until 1983. Bessie also enjoyed a brief stint in journalism, she made breakthroughs in research in medical graphology, she held high ranking memberships in numerous respected organizations and she was even an outspoken advocate of equal rights for the marginalized. She was bestowed several honors in her lifetime, including the New Jersey Joint Legislative Commendation.Bessie died on December 30th in 2009. In Newfield,New Jersey from old age.

If it weren't for her, amputees would face even more difficulty in life.

[anand07723]

Unveiling the Path to Wellness: Discovering the Expertise of RED Physiotherapy Northampton

In the vibrant town of Northampton, where the pulse of life beats strong, a beacon of health and well-being shines through the dedicated efforts of RED Physiotherapy. Imagine a place where the science of movement intertwines with the art of healing, guiding individuals towards a life of optimal physical well-being. This is the realm crafted by the skilled hands and compassionate hearts at RED Physiotherapy Northampton.

Physiotherapy Near Me - A Gateway to Healing:

In the quest for holistic health, finding a trustworthy physiotherapy service near you is pivotal. The need for personalized care tailored to individual requirements is the cornerstone of RED Physiotherapy's philosophy. Their team of expert physiotherapists understands that each person's journey to recovery is unique. From common musculoskeletal issues to specialized sports injuries, the skilled practitioners at RED Physiotherapy Northampton are equipped with the knowledge and expertise to address diverse needs.

Physiotherapist Near Me - Personalized Care Beyond Boundaries:

The term "physiotherapist near me" takes on a new dimension with RED Physiotherapy Northampton. As advocates for personalized care, their physiotherapists delve deep into understanding the root causes of discomfort and dysfunction. By doing so, they create tailored treatment plans that go beyond mere symptom management, aiming for lasting results. Your journey to recovery becomes a collaborative effort, where the physiotherapist near you becomes a partner in your pursuit of well-being.

Physical Therapy Unveiled - The Science of Movement:

Physical therapy is not just about relieving pain; it's about unlocking the body's full potential. At RED Physiotherapy Northampton, the science of movement takes center stage. Their comprehensive approach combines evidence-based practices with cutting-edge techniques, ensuring that every session contributes to your overall well-being. Whether you seek relief from chronic pain, rehabilitation post-surgery, or enhancement of athletic performance, the physical therapy services offered here are your gateway to a more vibrant life.

Sports Physiotherapy - Elevating Athletic Excellence:

For athletes, the quest for peak performance is a continuous journey. RED Physiotherapy Northampton recognizes the unique demands of sports enthusiasts and offers specialized sports physiotherapy services. The sports physiotherapists at RED are attuned to the intricacies of athletic movement, addressing not only injuries but also optimizing performance. From weekend warriors to elite athletes, the sports physiotherapy near you is designed to support your journey towards excellence.

Fizioterapeut, Kinetoterapeut, Fizio - A Multidisciplinary Approach:

In the world of physiotherapy, diversity in expertise is paramount. At RED Physiotherapy Northampton, a team of skilled professionals, including fizioterapeuts, kinetoterapeuts, and fizios, collaborates to provide a multidisciplinary approach to healing. This diverse team ensures that no aspect of your physical well-being is overlooked, and the treatment plan is as unique as you are. The fusion of different specialties creates a synergistic effect, accelerating your path to recovery.

Masaj Terapeutic - Relaxing the Mind, Healing the Body:

Incorporating therapeutic massage into the spectrum of services, RED Physiotherapy Northampton recognizes the interconnectedness of mind and body. The soothing touch of expert therapists at RED goes beyond relaxation; it becomes a therapeutic modality aimed at reducing muscle tension, promoting circulation, and fostering overall well-being. The inclusion of masaj terapeutic in their offerings showcases a commitment to addressing the holistic needs of their clients.

Stats and Sources:

To underscore the effectiveness of physiotherapy, a study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy revealed that patients with musculoskeletal conditions who underwent physiotherapy experienced significant improvements in pain and function (Source: JOSPT, 2018).

Another critical aspect is the increasing demand for physiotherapy services. According to a report by the World Confederation for Physical Therapy, the global demand for physiotherapists is expected to rise by 36% by 2026, emphasizing the growing recognition of the field in promoting health and well-being (Source: WCPT, 2020).

In the heart of Northampton, RED Physiotherapy stands as a bastion of healing, where the convergence of science and compassion shapes the path to optimal health. From personalized physiotherapy services and specialized sports physiotherapy to therapeutic massage, the offerings cater to a diverse range of needs. As we navigate the intricate tapestry of our physical well-being, the question arises: Have you discovered the transformative journey that RED Physiotherapy Northampton can offer to unlock your body's full potential?

Inquire about their services today, and embark on a voyage towards a healthier, more vibrant you.

[idigitizellp21]

The Connection Between Nature And Mental Health: Ecotherapy Explained

Ecotherapy, also known as nature therapy or green therapy, is a therapeutic practice that explores the profound connection between nature and mental health. This field of eco-psychology has gained recognition for its ability to promote emotional well-being, reduce stress, and improve overall mental health. Let’s delve into this fascinating topic with some research support and citations.

The relation between Nature and Mental Health:

1. Nature’s Stress-Reducing Effect: Numerous studies have highlighted nature’s stress-reducing benefits. For example, Bratman et al., (2015) found that a 90-minute walk in a natural setting significantly reduced rumination, a key factor in depression.

2. Enhanced Mood and Emotional Well-being: Exposure to nature has been linked to improved mood and emotional well-being. A 2019 study in the “International Journal of Environmental Health Research” reported that individuals who spent time in natural settings reported greater happiness and lower levels of anxiety.

3. Ecotherapy’s Therapeutic Approach: Ecotherapy employs various techniques, such as wilderness therapy, horticultural therapy, and animal-assisted therapy, to help individuals connect with nature. These practices can provide a sense of purpose and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

4. Biophilia Hypothesis: The concept of biophilia, introduced by E.O. Wilson suggests that humans have an innate, biological connection to nature. This connection is believed to have a profound impact on mental well-being, and ecotherapy capitalizes on this connection to promote healing.

5. Ecotherapy’s Real-world Success: Ecotherapy has been successfully implemented in various therapeutic settings. An example is the “Shinrin Yoku” or forest bathing practice in Japan, which involves mindful immersion in a forest environment. Research indicates that forest bathing can lower cortisol levels and improve overall mental health.

Here are some more examples of ecotherapy practices:

Wilderness Therapy: This form of ecotherapy involves guided, outdoor adventures in natural settings like forests or mountains. Participants engage in various activities, such as hiking, camping, and group discussions, to promote personal growth, self-awareness, and emotional healing.

Horticultural Therapy: Horticultural therapy utilizes gardening and plant-based activities to improve mental health. It has been effective in various settings, from mental health institutions to rehabilitation centers. Cultivating and caring for plants can boost self-esteem, reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, and enhance a sense of accomplishment.

Animal-Assisted Therapy: Ecotherapy can involve interactions with animals, particularly in the context of mental health treatment. Programs that include horses (equine therapy), dogs, or other animals offer therapeutic benefits by fostering trust, communication, and emotional connection.

Nature Meditation and Mindfulness: Ecotherapy often incorporates meditation and mindfulness practices in natural surroundings. These sessions help individuals become more present and in tune with the environment, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.

Eco-Art Therapy: Art therapy combined with natural settings can be a powerful form of ecotherapy. Individuals engage in artistic activities like painting, drawing, or sculpture while immersed in nature, allowing them to express their emotions and connect with the environment on a deeper level.

Adventure Therapy: This form of ecotherapy combines outdoor adventure activities such as rock climbing, kayaking, and wilderness exploration with therapeutic interventions. It can help individuals overcome fears, develop problem-solving skills, and build self-confidence.

Green Exercise: Ecotherapy can be as simple as incorporating physical activities into nature, such as outdoor yoga classes, walking or running in parks, or cycling through scenic routes. Engaging in exercise in natural settings has been shown to enhance mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Eco-Resilience Training: Some ecotherapy programs focus on developing resilience in the face of environmental challenges. These programs teach individuals how to cope with climate-related stressors and find psychological well-being by fostering a deeper connection to nature.

These examples demonstrate the diversity of ecotherapy practices and how they can be tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of individuals seeking to improve their mental health by connecting with the natural world.

Quick Recap:

In conclusion, the connection between nature and mental health, as explored through ecotherapy, is backed by a growing body of scientific evidence. Spending time in nature, whether through structured ecotherapy sessions or unstructured outdoor activities, can have a profound and positive impact on mental health. By acknowledging and nurturing our relationship with the natural world, we can harness its therapeutic potential to enhance our overall well-being. Connecting individuals with the therapeutic benefits of nature, Imperfect seamlessly integrates the healing power of the outdoors to enhance mental health and well-being.

– Urveez Kakalia.

[starfriday]

Suniel Shetty & Veda's Manun Thakur launch the World's First Mental Health App With 24x7 Access to Real Time Therapy while being Affordable and Private. 

“100% Made in India, the groundbreaking app, Lets Get Happi will 'Democratize Mental Health Treatment in India and Worldwide'”

Mumbai, 2nd August 2023: The launch of the World's First Mental Health App With 24x7 Access to Therapy from Psychologists, Letsgethappi by Veda Rehabilitation & Wellness coincides with the increasing discussions surrounding mental health issues in India and across the world. With a keen interest in Indian start-ups that redefine the digital heath landscape to deliver accessible, inclusive mental health support to people and provide a solution to help end the stigma of mental health, the venture capitalist and actor with a diverse portfolio of investments in the healthcare industry, Mr Suniel Shetty announced the launch of Letsgethappi App along with the Founder and C.E.O. of Veda Rehabilitation & Wellness, Mr Manun Thakur in Mumbai today. Also present at the launch held at the JW Marriott, Juhu was Mr Vishwas Nangare Patil, Director General of the Anti Corruption Bureau, Maharashtra.

India’s first and only chain of Luxury Mental Health Treatment Centres in Mumbai, Bengaluru and New Delhi, Veda Rehabilitation & Wellness is known for its all-encompassing mental health care. To make mental health care affordable and accessible to everyone while being absolutely anonymous, Veda has created the Lets Get happi App, especially for those between 16 and 35 years of age in India's metro cities. The brands are unique because it offers both, in-person and online therapy that caters to different needs and budgets, setting it apart from anyone in the field. 

The revolutionary and innovative mental health App, Lets Get Happi is the World's first App to offer access to therapy from a Psychologist 24 hours of the day along with a lot of other features such as meditations (some are even based on House and Electronic Dance Music), journaling, assessments tests, all in one App. And, it is also the World's only Mental Health App which offers Anonymity at an affordable rate making it unique and first-of-its-kind.

Commenting on partnering with Veda's Mr Manun Thakur to launch the Letsgethappi App, Mr Suniel Shetty says, "It is a significant step in supporting people with mental health tools and online therapy so they can thrive in all aspects of their lives. There is a huge gap in the existing landscape of mental health support and Letsgethappi has a unique blend of inclusivity and provides a safe haven for users to seek anonymous support without the fear of any stigma or judgment. The App is our single-minded commitment to address the blindspot existing in the understanding and acceptance of the social aspects of mental health in India.

"It's technology uses a combination of digital tools and 24/7 human support that aims to give users independence. Just like one's physical health, support for our mental health is equally important. Letsgethappi emphasizes on promoting a healthy approach to well-being and adheres to industry best practices," ends Mr Shetty.

Passionate about making a positive difference to the lives of people suffering from mental health problems – especially those who cannot access services due to a lack of resources or privacy, Founder and C.E.O. Of Veda,  Mr Manun Thakur, says, "We are working hard to make mental health care more accessible in India. We have offline centres for in-patient treatment and an online platform so that we can offer end-to-end care. I truly hope that we become the first super successful company that is built on kindness and empathy." 

"I personally bootstrapped the company from scratch and am the largest investor in Veda. My own journey battling mental health issues motivated me to find a more credible and updated solution and hence, I created Veda. There will be an additional investment of Rs 55 crores in the next 3 years, over the current investment, to scale-up and offer more solutions," adds Mr Thakur. 

The App currently has features that includes therapy through audio, video and chat,  journaling, psychological assessment tests, content on various wellness topics by industry experts, meditations from chants of OM to Meditations based on EDM and House Music, Daily Mood Check-In and the App's Version 2.0 (by January 24) will come with AI as the first responder, games that improve cognition and memory, much more premium content, podcasts and Interactive Journaling. 

The App has gained support from leading mental health advocates and experts from diverse industries. The current angel investors range from the Actor-Entrepreneur Mr Suniel Shetty, a Silicon Valley Surgeon to a Stanford Professor to Private Equity Goliaths to Real Estate Dynasties that includes Dr. Sriniwas Ramachandra – Celebrity Surgeon and Investor, Silicon Valley, Dr. Pramela Ramachandra – ex- professor, Stanford University, Mr. Yogesh Bulchandani, CEO, Diamantina, Mr. Karan Kumar, Founder Amalthea Capital, Private Equity, Dubai, Mr. Nitin Passi, Chairman of Lotus Herbals etc. Mr Manun Thakur has a business background of Real Estate and Infra Development, studied Entrepreneurship and Leadership from Harvard and is currently doing a course in Psychology from Yale.

The App is created by a company based in NCR called Primathon, helmed by IIT-Delhi Alumni, Mr. Sagar Patidar. The Letsgethappi App is available on both iOS and Android and has already surpassed 16,000 downloads and is expected to cross about 500,000 downloads in the next 9 months. To download the Letsgethappi App, go to the following links below:

PlayStore: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.veda.happidoctor

App Store: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/happi-doctor-24-7-therapy/id6445958441

ABOUT Veda Rehabilitation & Wellness: Veda is India’s first and only chain of Luxury Mental Health Treatment Centres in Mumbai, Bengaluru and New Delhi and will have 4 new centres coming up in next few months. Clients suffering from Depression, Addictions, Clinical Anxiety and a range of other mental health illnesses are treated. Therapies offered include Talk Therapies, Music Therapy, Art Therapy, Sound Baths, Guided Meditation Practise, Mindfulness practise, Guided Yoga and many others. Only five clients are taken in per centre making Veda a very exclusive facility. On 2nd August 2023,  Veda launched the World's First Mental Health App, Letsgethappi that has 24x7 Access to Online Therapy.

Websites:

Veda : Website https://vedawellnessworld.com/ 

Happi : https://letsgethappi.com/ 

[manju432]

Why is Mental Health Important?

One of the world’s most prominent suicide capital — is India. The higher rate of suicides in India is because of mental health disorders. It is reported that in India, every seventh person suffers from mental health and some even go through suicide attempts.

Mental health has a significant impact on the economics of a country as well; a report states that the economic loss in India due to mental health conditions is: USD 1.03 trillion. After knowing these stats, you may also wonder: How can mental health affect us, or why is it important…? Is mental health a severe health issue…?

Do not worry; we will answer all your questions by providing detailed information on why mental health is essential. To dispel any confusion about mental health, carefully read the information below:

What is Mental health?

A person’s complete psychological and emotional well-being is called mental health. It involves our everyday feelings, thoughts, and behaviours. Good mental health means that a person can handle the daily stresses of life, work productively, form and maintain healthy relationships, and make meaningful contributions to society.

Mental health disorders can range from mild to severe and include conditions such as depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and personality disorders.

It is essential to prioritise mental health and seek help when needed, just as one would for physical health concerns.

Why is Mental health essential?

Mental health plays a vital role in your daily life activity and physical health and affects your psychological, social and emotional behaviour. Mental illness can also affect your daily routine: eating, sleeping, communicating, or socialising. All these lead you to a numbed state and can build solitary in a person.

Mental health is essential to behave normally, like regular eating and being productive at work and school. Rehabilitation for mental disorders can sometimes result in significant physical health problems, including heart attacks, stress, eating disorders, and many more.

Signs of Mental health Problems

We all want to protect or help our family members or friends going through the same, but that is only possible if you are aware of signs of mental health issues. Depression, Panic disorder, Intermittent Explosive Disorder/ Anger issues, Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), Eating disorders, Anxiety, Sleeping problems, Isolation, and Trust issues are all significant signs of a person who is suffering from mental illnesses.

What causes mental health issues?

A severe psychological disorder can even lead a person to suicide, which cannot happen without reason.

So some common causes that can lead to a lifetime trauma/mental disorder in anyone are: Past trauma, abuse, or neglection, long-term and severe stress, social isolation, loneliness, grief, discrimination, along with long-term physical conditions, poverty, or significant debt, unemployment, a breakup or a divorce, dysfunctional family life, and criticism are the main reason of having a mental illness in most of the youngsters.

Here’s how you can heal from mental health

You can perform various spiritual methods or visit a therapist to heal your soul from these mental traumas or disorders. The Mental Healthcare Act 2017 provides and protects all the rights of people with mental health illnesses.

There are severe psychiatric services to treat your mental health issues, or you can ask for help from your family members or someone you can trust. Seeking therapy, Journaling, Practising mindfulness — like mindfulness meditation, Exercise, Yoga, or low-impact exercise, and Learning to communicate effectively can also be great for mental and emotional health.

A word from Enigmatic Horizon

Your mental health plays an essential role in your life; it affects how we think, act and cope with life. Performing regular tasks like eating or sleeping can be difficult while suffering from those issues. Mental health is far more important than anything else, so take care of your mental health and stand by your family member or friend if they are going through the same.

[journal-of-yoga]

Iris Publishers - World Journal of Yoga, Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation (WJYPR)

Depression, Physical Decline and Existential Psychotherapy in Late Life

Authored by Luel Mae ZP Contreras*

Introduction

Late life brings with its wisdom, long experiences, contentment, and respect, love and care of many generations in the family. As an individual grows older, however, decline and changes are inevitable, too. So that, very common among the older persons are feelings of depression. How can this rapidly increasing population with growing demands for better quality of life, be helped? I conducted a research based on the Frankl’s Existential Theory and Logotherapy [1] and designed and implemented an intervention program for late life depression. The research had three phases. In Phase One, old participants (n=37) were administered tests and especially selected using the variables on age, cognitive functioning, depressive symptoms, gender, and perceived disability functioning. From those who qualified (n=28), 10 were randomly selected to participate in the Focused Group Discussion. From them, common themes and topics in old age were identified. These became the basis of the topics, tasks and activities of the intervention program. The program called the Existential Psychotherapy for Old Persons was designed and developed.

In Phase Two, the program was implemented in 18 sessions for eight weeks. 10 participants completed the 18 sessions. To measure effectiveness of the program, levels of depressive symptoms were monitored at the end of the sixth session, the 12th and the 18th session.

In Phase Three, four of the 10 participants to the Existential Psychotherapy for Old Persons were selected as subjects for the case study method. They narrated their stories to establish symptoms of depression. They were also asked factors which they considered to have contributed to the effectiveness of the program.

Findings of the Research

Phase One of the research, found a very high prevalence rate (94%) of depression among old people. Phase Two established three important points. First, old age depression can be described to be about emptiness, problems in memory, boredom, preference to stay at home, feeling that others are better, and helplessness. These were common symptoms of depression reported by the participants before the intervention was implemented. Secondly, after the implementation of the intervention, some symptoms reported before the start of the program were no longer present. Hence, the program can be described to effectively regulate feelings of energy, good spirits, and satisfaction in life, worth, happiness, hope, and going out and trying new things. Thirdly, statistically, therefore, a significant difference between levels of depressive symptoms reported before and after the intervention (Asymp. Sig. 2-tailed = 0.043) was found.

In Phase Three, factors were identified which were perceived to have contributed to the effectiveness of the Existential Psychotherapy for Old Persons. These made up the meaning triad [2] of the program or the creative, experiential and attitudinal meaning or values of the program. Meaning was experienced by the participants in the existential activities and tasks, in the relationships they recalled from the past, in the relationships they developed with the facilitators and other participants in the program, and the lessons they learned in spite their pain, suffering and negative experiences.

The Intervention Program

The Existential Psychotherapy for Old Persons was implemented in 18 sessions, in eight weeks or two months. The program generally aimed to recall and enumerate experiences which are sources of despair, sadness and joy and inspiration. The program facilitated the exploration of emotions and beliefs in attempts to assign options or new options for creating meaningful experiences.

Twelve sessions were conducted in group and six sessions were on one-on-one sessions with the participants. In group sessions, the participants were brought together in a specified venue for activities for about 90 minutes each session. Individual sessions were conducted in the homes of the participants for 45 minutes each session. Sessions were prepared according to themes about age in old age, developmental stages, physical body, family, salary and pension, services to others, calamity or disaster, farewell and goodbye, God, gatherings, personal values or wishes, and thanksgiving.

The program included strategies such as meditation, physical exercises, reminiscence, life review, individual work, group work, story-telling, song singing, coloring-task, drawing, individual disclosure, small- and big-group discourse or sharing, insight, integration, prayer, care of pechay plant, home visitations and interviews.

Each group session was composed of five parts. It had opening activities like meditation for the older participants, body exercise, singing or dancing, and prayer. The next was the working part with instructions and group or individual tasks to the old participants. The third part was sharing and processing. The fourth part was the transformation and integration part with insights or action plans. And the fifth part included closing prayer and songs.

Session Five

The fifth session of the intervention program was titled Ang Akong Lawas (My Body) and especially designed to explore and delve into issues of the physical body of the participants or to acknowledge physical capacities or decline. Printed drawings of body were distributed. The participants were asked to acknowledge hurting and painful parts of their bodies. Then, with the printed drawings, they color-shade those parts. They recalled experiences associated to the painful parts of the bodies. And more importantly, they were asked to recall experiences of gratefulness and joy and lessons learned despite pain.

Meaning was found in the courage to bear the suffering and pain, and in the support provided by family and relatives in helping them handle physical concerns, and also in actively providing care for the self and one’s own body. There was recall of times and gratitude in relationships when, for example, in spite hospitalization and physical pain, children came to take care of the participant:

They came back home. I thanked God for my children. I was so happy they came home, and they took good care of me.

Suffering was remembered with care and concern:

I thank God for the concern and worry of my husband.

The attitudinal meaning includes becoming more aware of the need to provide care for one’s body:

Sometimes, the reason of man’s body pain is about the food we eat. We must be conscious of healthy foods so that we help ourselves take good care of ourselves.

Conclusion

Session Five, as like the other sessions of tasks and activities of the designed and implemented intervention program, effectively facilitated the search for meaning in late life and finally, regulated depressive symptoms of the participants. Physical decline is an existential reality in old age and can contribute to feelings of depression. Existential Psychotherapy, the participation to the Existential Psychotherapy for Old Persons, and the search of meaning in the experiences of physical decline, however, can help regulate feelings of depression. The tasks of Session Five led to an exploration of suffering and pain, and the meaning of physical decline.

To read more about this article: https://irispublishers.com/wjypr/fulltext/depression-physical-decline-and-existential-psychotherapy-in-late-life.ID.000535.php

Indexing List of Iris Publishers: https://medium.com/@irispublishers/what-is-the-indexing-list-of-iris-publishers-4ace353e4eee

Iris publishers google scholar citations: https://scholar.google.co.in/scholar?hl=en&as_sdt=0%2C5&q=irispublishers&btnG=

[whattolearntoday]

March 1st is...

Fruit Compote Day - The word compote is French for “mixture.”A compote is a dessert originating in 17th century France. The French believed that fruit cooked in sugar syrup balanced the humidity’s effects on the body and led them to invent compotes. Recipes called for whole or pieces of mixed fruit in sugar syrup. The whole fruits are cooked in water with added sugar and spices. 

Horse Protection Day - The horse holds a legendary mystique in American culture. In North America, the legendary horse is embedded in our culture and runs deep into the roots of our history. As the country grew, our indebtedness to the horse grew, too. While few people see the horse as much more than a recreational animal today, they still serve on working ranches. As a therapy animal, horses relieve the symptoms of PTSD, anxiety, and other disorders. Long past their age as a plow horse or part of the cavalry, they continue connecting to humans, and we continue to rely on them. However, many go unwanted, abused, or neglected despite their legendary status. This day is about addressing those issues. Around the country, several organizations support horse rescue, rehabilitation, and adoption. Their programs offer shelter and veterinary care for horses that have been neglected or abused. Many of them provide a sanctuary where the horses live out the remainder of their lives. Once rehabilitated, many of the horses become available for adoption.  

Minnesota Day - The Land of 10,000 Lakes is recognized. Minnesota joined the union on May 11, 1858, making it the 32nd state in the United States, and it shares its northern border with Canada. Angle Township on the north edge of Lake of the Woods makes Minnesota the northernmost state of the continental forty-eight. Also known as the Gopher State, it extends along the northern shore of Lake Superior.

Pig Day -  Pigs are clever and intelligent animals. However, most people are not aware of their high level of intelligence. Some are household pets that can be trained and taught tricks.  There are hundreds of different breeds, most of which descend from the Eurasian Wild Boar. The female is called a gilt or sow and can produce 10 piglets in a single litter.

Pancake Day -  Also known as Johnnycakes, griddle cakes, or hotcakes, this batter-made breakfast item dates back more than 30,000 years. In fact, it may be the oldest breakfast food in history.

Self-Injury Awareness Day - When someone causes deliberate self-injury or harm, the action is an indication of emotional distress. According to research from the Journal of American Board of Family Medicine, approximately 4% of Americans self-harm, with a majority of those being college students. The day aims to help friends and family recognize the signs and help those in emotional distress find help. Self-injury occurs in many forms, including cutting, scratching, punching, and ingestion of chemicals. Those who self-harm do so for a variety of reasons. Some of them include coping with fear, stress, anxiety, or inducing positive feelings.

World Music Therapy Day - Many people refer to music as a universal language. Music therapy is rooted in the healing effect it has on human beings. Music therapy has proven to be an effective way to address physical, cognitive, social, and emotional needs of children, seniors, and people with disabilities. People with cerebral palsy, autism, learning disabilities, and many other types of disabilities see benefits of receiving music therapy. Music therapy often includes singing, listening to music, creating music, moving to music, and using instruments.

Zero Discrimination Day - Celebrates the right of everyone to live their life with dignity, including living a full and productive life. The day also highlights inclusion, compassion, and becoming a movement for change to end all forms of discrimination. When someone is treated differently based on their age, race, religion, social status, or gender it’s called discrimination. Sadly, people with sickness and disabilities are also discriminated against. Even in the advanced civilization in which we live, discrimination is still a huge issue. This is largely due to the fact that it is human nature to categorize people. In most cases, discrimination is a learned behavior. Discrimination also occurs when there is a lack of understanding

[centralflrecovery]

Things You Should Bring With You to Your Rehab Program

Inpatient treatment, also known as residential rehab, entails enrolling people in a 30-90 day program. The length of a person's stay in a residential program is determined by the degree of their drug or alcohol addiction.

 Because inpatient rehab requires you to live in a completely different setting than you are accustomed to, you may be unsure of what to anticipate when you enroll. If you're getting ready to start a residential program, it's natural to have some questions, one of the most pressing of which is: what should you bring with you?

 Central Florida Recovery is one of the most distinguished Drug Rehab Centers in Orlando Florida.

 Depending on the treatment you're going and the program you're participating in, you may be given a list of items you may and cannot bring with you inside the facility. However, if they do not give a list, you should contact the recovery centre to find out which items your program allows.

 Most rehabilitation clinics provide the bulk of one's needs, such as hygiene and food. However, you will be permitted to carry some items from home.

List of Things That You Should Bring With You to Rehab:

Most treatment centers allow or encourage their inpatient inmates to bring the following items:

 Central Florida Recovery is the leading Inpatient drug rehab in Apopka, FL.

●   

Clothes:

Bring some seasonal and comfy clothing, as well as pyjamas.

●   

Laundry supplies:

Similarly, you should bring detergent and other cleaning tools to clean the clothes you bring with you.

●   

Shoes:

Bring some slip-on shoes, boots without laces, and flip flops with you (for showers)

●   

Toiletries:

While rehab facilities provide the necessities, you are welcome to bring personal products such as toothbrush, lotion, shampoo/conditioner, and deodorant.

●   

Hair dryer:

Feel free to bring a hair dryer and other acceptable hair products with you.

●   

Medications:

Upon your arrival, ensure that all medicines are properly labeled.

●   

Identification info:

When you check in, make sure you have your identity and insurance cards with you.

●   

Money:

Keep a cheque book or credit card available in case you need to pay for therapy or other essentials.

●   

Sentimental items:

Patients can cope better if they bring a teddy bear or a photo of someone they care about.

●   

Comfort items:

Physical comfort goods, such as blankets, are welcome in rehabilitation facilities.

●   

A journal or notebook:

Bring something to jot down your thoughts in. This will allow you to reflect on your rehab experience both during and after it.

●   

Contact info of loved ones:

Make a list of your loved ones' addresses so you can write to them while in recovery.

●   

Envelopes and stamps:

In the same vein, bring some stamps and envelopes with you to write notes to family and friends.

 Central Florida Recovery is the most popular Drug Addiction Treatment Center in Orlando Florida.

Things You Should Leave at Home:

On the other side, the following goods may be prohibited by your treatment facility:

●     Jewelry

●     Technology items (phone, computer)

●     Razors

●     Mouthwash

●     Perfume

●     Shoes with laces

 These policies are in place to ensure the safety of the rehabilitation facility's residents and faculty or staff.

Starting Your Inpatient Program with Ease:

Entering a recovery facility may cause culture shock, but it is critical to adjust to a new environment in order to succeed in sobriety. In the end, programs like this are intended to provide you with the tools you need to recover in the real world once you leave the facility. Inpatient treatment will most likely include one-on-one therapy, group meetings, medication, wellness exercises, and other activities.

[kangwei18053060]

Annotated bibliography

PART I: Annotated bibliography

1.

British Association for Music Therapy (2020) What is music therapy? Available at: https://www.bamt.org/music-therapy/what-is-music-therapy.html

The first article in the list of annotated bibliography is the British Association for Music Therapy’s (BAMT) article on definition of music therapy.

As individuals, music assumes a central part in our personality, culture, legacy and beliefs. BAMT calls music a ground-breaking medium which can influence all of us in a profound manner. The article is useful in understanding the basic ideas related to music therapy. BAMT defines music therapy as an “established psychological clinical intervention”, which is conveyed by HCPC enrolled music therapists to help individuals whose lives have been influenced by injury, sickness or inability. The music therapists offer support to their mental, emotional, psychological, physical, communicative and social needs.

In music therapy, music specialists draw upon the intrinsic characteristics of music to help individuals from all ages and capacities and in different phases of life. It can be used to assist new conceived infants to create healthy relationship with their parents, to offer crucial, sensitive and humane palliative care to those who are at the end of their life.

Everybody reacts to music, and music treatment utilises this connection to encourage positive changes in one’s emotional wellbeing and correspondence by introducing live musical interaction engagement among therapist and client. It can help create and encourage relational abilities, develop self-confidence and autonomy, upgrade mindfulness and familiarity with others, improve attention and concentration.

The article is useful in understanding how music therapy works in layman’s terms. Since musical participation and reaction does not rely upon the capacity to talk, music therapy is a powerful clinical intercession for individuals who experience issues in verbal communication. For individuals influenced by disability, ailment or injury, working with music therapists can be groundbreaking. Children with autism are able to form emotional, social and communication abilities. Somebody with a brain injury as the aftereffect of a mishap can benefit from music therapy to recover their speech. Music therapists work as individuals from multi-disciplinary groups in healthcare, education or social care, or have their own private practice.

2.

Raglio, A., Attardo, L., Gontero, G., Rollino, S., Groppo, E. and Granieri, E. (2015) Effects of music and music therapy on mood in neurological patients, World journal of psychiatry, vol. 5, no. 1, p.68-78.

The days of parents asking children to turn down the music and focus on their homework might be over as more advances are made in the field of music therapy. Neurological illnesses are frequently connected with a several symptoms in one’s behaviour and psychology that are typically disregarded by neurologists on the grounds it that requires diagnostic techniques that contrast from those utilised for classical physical symptoms and are more appropriate in psychiatry field. Depression, tension, maniacal states, and disorders in thought and observation are some of the common psychiatric problems in neurology. In the past decades there has been a developing assemblage of proof in the utilisation of musical intervention taking place in clinical setting that is concerned to singing, listening to music, improvised creation in music, and other melodic exercises, insofar as more organised music therapy or MT treatment. Given that music engages in an assortment of cerebrum zones associated with feeling, motivation, discernment, and motor capacities, music interventions have been utilised to expand socialisation and intellectual, emotional, and neuromotor working.

Rehabilitative methodologies, for example, Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT) allude to neuroscientific models and essentially utilise the capability of melodic upgrades for activation of observation and production regions in the human mind, giving a progression of therapeutic applications to sensory, psychological, and motor dysfunctions that can occur due to issues in neurological areas. Utilising directive approach that is dependent on a progression of activities, NMT might be utilised, for instance, to improve stride and developments in patients who have suffered from post-stroke or have PD or language in people suffering from aphasia. With respect to the neurological problems, music therapy may advance functional recuperation and furthermore improve social and mental results, for example, motivation, inspiration, temperament, and depression.

Taking these into consideration, it will be interesting to the role of music therapy in the lives of student.

3.

Petra, K. and Humpal, M., eds. (2019) Early Childhood Music Therapy and Autism Spectrum Disorder, Second Edition, Supporting Children and Their Families. United States: Jessica Kingsley Publishers.

This book presents fourteen chapters by 14 US Music Therapists with broad experience of working with young people with autism. There is a solid accentuation on what is called evidence-based music therapy and there are numerous occurrences when the reader is advised this is the best way to deal with music therapy with kids with autism. The book is meticulously devoted to music therapists who use evidence-based practices to help small kids with autism issue and also support to their families. The book editors have also contributed towards the chapters.

The book is certainly a reference book that Music Therapists working with Autism Spectrum Disorder need to own. At the same time, Music Therapists outside the United States should know that numerous parts fundamentally about broad legislation with respect to ASD in the United States, which is not generally pertinent to different nations. gives an outline of mental imbalance including definitions and indicative highlights. It offers recent information in an unmistakable way and is a valuable reference for Music Therapists to have the option to utilise. It was intriguing to find out about which methods to Autism were considered in the 2015 United States as Established, Emerging, and Unestablished. However, maybe much more significant for Music Therapists practitioners both in the United States and in the more extensive world would be some data about how EBP approach can utilise music and music making and how the connection between the child, the family and the therapist may be improved and fortified, prompting the accomplishment of therapeutic objectives.

Even though the book centres around the subject of music therapy in the United States, it significantly makes use of literature on music therapy from outside of the country.  It offers numerous useful suggestions like music therapy coaching that urges parents to connect musically with their young child, yet less focus is on supporting the parents themselves and expanding on existing positive associations between them and the child.

4.

McCaffrey, T., McFerran, K., Gattino, G. and Sundar, S. (2020) The Global Music Therapy Educators Network. British Journal of Music Therapy, 34(2), pp.80-81.

The article talks about a tangible solution in current pandemic situation in the form of a The Global Music Therapy Educators Library (E-library) curated by a worldwide network of music therapy educators. This is a brief e-library lasting for the pandemic time frame, which offers a space for music treatment instructors to make and share recordings on music treatment through the VIMEO platform for instructive purpose.

Educators who use music therapy around the world are connected in their obligation to the advancement of the progression through the training of new professionals. While different college programs stress assorted methodologies and are illustrative of their encompassing societies, there is a lot of that is shared between various programmes and their instructors. Yet, preceding the COVID-19 pandemic, there was minimal collaboration between educators as a group. One reason suggested in the article is because of time pressures and an absence of need to come together and celebrate diversities. With the beginning of the pandemic and the quick progress to web-based learning, a sudden space arose for dialogue among the network of music therapy educator. United by the difficulties on professional training because of a worldwide pandemic, various global teachers joined in conversation to look for a path forward.

The relevance of this literature lies in the fact that it accesses the current pandemic situation and puts the music therapy in this context.

The occasion to connect educators from all around the world with assorted points of views and geographic areas under one virtual rooftop empowers us to share information and mastery in inventive manners that help the education-learning needs of the music therapy network. One of the most certain results of the Global Music Therapy Educators Network is that it has united this community, even in a time of social distancing.

5.

Swaney, M. (2019) Towards a state of play: A case study exploring insight-oriented musical experiences with a woman with severe brain injury. British Journal of Music Therapy, 33(1), pp. 39-50.

This article has been included in the list as it presents an improvisational way to deal with insight-oriented therapy in music therapy. Other reason for including this article is that it details the case study of a woman with extreme cognitive impairments after she suffered from a haemorrhagic stroke. The research has investigated five clinical extracts across 40 sessions to show how a readied improvised melodic experience can encourage important self-investigation, prompting a revived self-identity in life after on suffers from brain injury. The reflective process of the therapist is essential to the attain therapeutic results; these are inspected with the casework material. This article recommends that insight-oriented musical encounters might be one method of supporting the emotional health of people living with the outcomes of serious brain injury either in slow-stream recovery or long-term neurological consideration.

Another reason this article has been included is because it introduces Winnicott’s (1971) notion of psychotherapy and states that music therapists are very much familiar the author’s work. Undoubtedly, in music treatment, the practitioners start their work by building up a platform whereupon the client’s capacities and limits are perceived. This therapy spaces enables encounters with each other and the demonstration of playing together unfurls. Where play is impossible, Winnicott proceeds by expressing at that point the work done by the specialist is coordinated towards bringing the patient from a condition of not having the option to play into a condition of having the option to play.

The case of study of Bonnie in the article shows how by presenting music therapy space, a person with extremely disorganised mind has the capability of engaging in deep explorations of their self as well as connecting with that self in a meaningful manner after sustaining brain damage.

6.

Harvard Health Publishing (2016) How music can help you heal. Available at: https://www.health.harvard.edu/mind-and-mood/how-music-can-help-you-heal

Finding someone who does not connect strongly to music is next to impossible. Regardless of one’s ability or inability to carry a tune or play an instrument, a person can give a list of songs that conjures happy memories and uplifts their spirits. The ability of music to heal emotionally as well as physically is the focus of this blog article. For a long time, surgeons have listed their favourite music in order to relieve stress when they are in the operating room. They also offer their patients with music in order to enhance the surgery results. Over the last few decades, music therapy has assumed a significant role in different fields of healing.

The article is informative about the type of people who become certified music therapists. There are the accomplished musicians having deep knowledge with regards to the manner in which music has the ability of bringing out emotional responses so that people can either experience relaxation or healing. This statement has been evidenced with real-life example of Holly Chartrand, who is a music therapist at Massachusetts General Hospital, affiliated to Harvard. Chartrand has previously trained as a vocalist. After realising that music can be used to help other people just as she it helped her personally, she took the decision of becoming a music therapist.

The blog provides a sampling of how music helps in improving medical outcomes and quality of life in various manners. Some of the listed outcomes are easing a patient’s anxiety and discomfort when they are undergoing medical procedures, decreasing the side effects caused by cancer therapy, offering assistance during physical therapy and rehabilitation, providing pain relief.

7.

Davis, L.C. (2015) Is It Harmful to Use Music as a Coping Mechanism? Available at: https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2015/11/is-it-harmful-to-use-music-as-a-coping-mechanism/413236/

This article from The Atlantic has been included in the list as it seeks to initiate a discourse on how much of music is too much. That music is a form of emotional self-care is understood by music streaming apps such as Spotify, that offers “Mood” playlists ranging from “Anthems of Angst” to “The Happy Hipster.” The article acknowledges the therapeutic qualities of music, by quoting Aristotle and the origins of music therapy in the mid-20th century, when in the United Kingdom, musicians went from hospital to hospital to play music for World War I and II soldiers suffering physical and emotional trauma.

The article refers to the research carried out by a Ph.D candidate Emily Carlson from Department of Music at Finland’s University of Jyväskylä. The article explores the question of whether it is possible to listen to music in manners that is sabotages one’s mental health. This question was asked in the Ph.D. study which surveyed music-listening habits of 123 participants.

The study found that among all the strategies utilised in listening to music, Discharge, which is the utility of music in order to express negative emotions, was linked to higher anxiety level and neuroticism among the participants, and more so in men. In turn, the fMRI data showed that men using Discharge strategy had decrease in mPFC or medial prefrontal cortex activity when listening to music. When compared to Diversion, which is a common music-listening strategy among females, Discharge can lead to amplification of negative feelings or result in what is known as externalizing strategy wherein an individual directs their negative behaviour and feelings outwards, and into the surroundings.

The article suggest the need for a little introspection to figure out if one’s music-listening habits is healthy. In case, one’s listening choices leads to feelings of rage or woe, then it is better to avoid such playlist.

8.

Schriewer, K. and Bulaj, G. (2016) Music streaming services as adjunct therapies for depression, anxiety, and bipolar symptoms: convergence of digital technologies, mobile apps, emotions, and global mental health. Frontiers in public health, 4, p.217.

This journal article has been selected as it acknowledges the role of streaming services as an adjunct tool for treating mental health issues. Despite music therapies being around for many years, the diverse cultural origins, music genres, and personal preferences does not impact music’s universal values. The authors portray how a quick development in web and mobile technologies, including overall availability of music streaming and cell phones can to some extent address expanding worldwide mental health challenges. At the same time, a cross-disciplinary coordinated efforts and thorough clinical approval of explicit clinical cases is needed for repurposing music streaming services into therapies for depression, bipolar disorder or anxiety. The article has also taken into account the comfort and low expenses of conveying computerised mediations, creating music streaming therapies to offer new opportunities for patients, their guardians, medical services experts, music industry, and artists all around the world.

The authors have given the example of music streaming services like Amazon Prime, Spotify, Apple Music, Google Play Music, SoundCloud, iHeartRadio, and Pandora that can play an assortment of songs on-request by means of the Internet and based on the preference and interest of the users.  An individual can choose music stations dependent on particular tunes, musician, genre, or mood. The station then plays melodies, which the audience previously chose, and new tunes, which are akin to the previously played tunes.

Music streaming channels offer large number of songs and melodic tracks and are accessible around the world, or in chosen nations. Numerous stations offer classifications based on one’s mood, for instance Spotify with "Have a Great Day," "Mind-set Booster," "Quiet Down," "Great Vibes," and so on and Apple Music with "Get Happy," "100 Most Uplifting Songs Ever" offering preset playlists that the listeners can pick. In contrast Google Play Music uses mood in search criteria like “Confident," "Quiet," "Fiery," and so forth to offer specific music.

The article is useful in understanding how new innovations can be repurposed for music therapy.

9.

Falodun, K. (2020) 'Don't stop the music': songs bring hope to a Nigerian psychiatric unit. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2020/nov/04/dont-stop-the-music-songs-bring-hope-to-a-nigerian-psychiatric-unit

The focus of Falodun’s The Guardian news article is the use of the music therapy in Nigerian psychiatric unit. Africa suffers from a treatment gap for those with mental health issues, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. In Nigeria, an expected 20% to 30% of the populace have some type of mental illness. Various combination of variables when regarding the mental illness. The article quotes Dr Adetoun Faloye, a senior registrar in the psychiatry division of University College Hospital who states that they do not only use medication or psychotherapy or music treatment, but various helpful methodologies are consolidated and tailored to meet the person’s needs.

The article details the story of Bola Otegbayo who brings a group of artists and instrumentalists into this psychiatric unit at UCH in Ibadan, Nigeria once or twice a month. Besides being a musicologist, Otegbayo is also a renal technologists, who understood a couple of years ago that a portion of her patients were lonely despite the fact that their friends and family visited and guardians gave aid. So, she started to share music.

Music can be stimulative or remedial, however it can likewise be a wellspring of sadness. This is the reason why it should be utilised cautiously. The mentions Otegbayo’s desire to utilise this kind of treatment in other Nigerian emergency clinics. At the same time, there is the acknowledgement difficulties, particularly for somebody who is not an individual from hospital staff. Other than being an artist or having an energy for aiding individuals, somebody leading a group should be prepared and ready to work with therapists and medical caretakers. This is snot something any artist can do as they would prefer not to trigger the patients. The individual also needs to notice if the music therapy is working. Thus, the article makes the reader aware of various challenges in implementation of music therapy.

10.

Balzer, C. (2020) Music can boost your productivity while working from home – here's how. Available at: https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2020/apr/15/music-productivity-working-from-home

This article by Balzer is significant and timely in the light of the fact that the current pandemic situation has resulted in work from home for individuals in many different professions. Music is shown to improve both productivity and cognitive execution, particularly in grown-ups. The article goes to detail the steps in order to curate a playlist that acts as music therapy to boost work productivity from home.

The author lists that the tunes toward the start of the playlist should not constrain the listener into a condition of productivity, however they need to continuously bring the listener in that mood. This idea is known as the iso standard, which is a procedure therapist’s use to adjust the state of mind of a patient. The specialist will coordinate music to match the patient’s feeling, and afterwards gradually modify the melodies to accomplish the desired mind set.

The suggestions for curation of playlist is backed by research findings. For instance, the author cites that scientists have discovered that faster track speed can bring about increase in performance. In one investigation that inspected the connection between music rhythm and productivity, most guineas pigs performed best while tuning in to tunes paced at around 121 bpm. This is tracks such as Carly Rae Jepsen's Call Me Maybe, Whitney Houston's I Wanna Dance with Somebody, and Diana Ross’s I Will Survive.

The article also cautions that while research proposes tuning in to energetic, complex music can help people remain alert and motivated while performing tedious assignments, narrative lyrics can be diverting to those attempting to accomplish cognitive work. The greater part of work playlist needs to incorporate melodies with harmless or subtly performed lyrics.

As the playlist develops, tracks need to be orchestrated so that it bodes well for the manner in which the listener works. There should be flexibility in the playlist by permitting the authorization to tune in to new music, evaluate new things, and try new things out.

11.

Wheeler, B.L and Murphy, K. M., eds (2018) Music therapy research (3rd ed.). New Braunfels, TX: Barcelona Publishers.

With increase in exploration of music treatment advances, textbooks offer an outline of the field and direction in planning and leading examination. In an area that is tested by monetary difficulties, there is a developing requirement for music therapists to exhibit value for money, by assessing, and having the option to defend, the effect of what they do. With the demand for evidence-based practice, opportunities are opening for quality innovative work in such practice. The book provides readers an outline of the primary research paradigms. From building up an exploration subject to inspecting writing and encouraging observational work, the reader is guided hypothetically and for all intents and purposes through phases of arranging and executing possibly significant research ventures.

The book can be read by those with no current research experience as it acquaints the readers with scholastic data sets and disclosing how to direct academic inquiries through writing. It is additionally useful for those with more examination experience, as it compares two unmistakable hypothetical structures assigned as "objectivist" and "interpretivist," and driving the reader through the effective utilisation of the aftereffects of examination.

As music therapy training, demands that understudies sharpen their musical instincts and their ability for attunement and sympathy, the authors also reason the risk of bias can be high for researchers of music therapy. In addition, a critical obstacle in the carrying out thorough exploration can be that advisors are not able or reluctant to develop a valid, haphazardly assigned control group for merciful, rational, or moral reasons. Nonetheless, in the light of gaining acknowledgment from other health administrations and officers, the book sets out how objectivist research that utilise randomized control preliminaries (or different techniques for randomisation or relapse of irregularity plans) are vital to creating research of high quality.

[internaljiujitsu]

5 Realizations That (Finally) Got Me Off The ADHD Treadmill

I used to hate reading books. I did it anyway but couldn’t last more than five or ten minutes before dozing off or having my mind dart away to distant lands. Like the skinny kid with no appetite that had to force feed himself to pack on muscle, I shoved books into my brain because I hated the idea of not being well read more than I hated reading.

As a kid, I often left things undone. — or worn out to the nub. After beginning enthusiastically, I’d soon lose steam and beat myself from pillar to post for quitting. I’d always hang around through the torture just to avoid the sting of giving up again. Once the interest was gone, whatever I was doing became pure misery. This would inevitably lead to mental and physical breakdown, as every cell in my body rejected the reality my mind was accepting.

I got good grades and excelled athletically but always thought I could do better. There seemed to be a gear missing — the one that I just knew could take me to a place that felt right. If I were just better, more disciplined and able to focus more — but I didn’t think I had it in me.

Back then, I didn’t know I was working with a slight disadvantage. While medication has played a crucial role in managing my ADHD, and no doubt would have made a massive difference in my childhood, it’s been just as important to build coping and productivity skills. While ADHD makes it difficult to work for other people, it also challenges your ability to self-regulate. Your perception of time is thrown off, so keeping track of your own schedule can be tough without a system.

Before I ever tried medication, in my forties, I spent my life learning skills to make up for what I saw as inadequacies. I’m thankful that I built a technical foundation before supplementing with chemicals, but eternally grateful for what meds have done for me. Once I was properly diagnosed, I realized that the progress I was able to make on my own was astonishing. Giving myself credit for putting in the work motivated me further. The medication made it all click. It was the missing piece I’d been searching for after years of hard inner and outer training.

Here are my five keys for finally jumping off the ADHD treadmill. Once I inserted these into my belief system, I no longer felt hopeless. The limiting, negative self-talk stopped. It took a long time to finally put everything together, but the results have been life changing.

Meds Are Not Evil

Like a lot of other people, I didn’t believe ADHD was real. My perception was that it was a made up disorder designed by drug companies to pump kids full of personality stifling drugs — an excuse for parents to medicate energetic kids and abdicate responsibility.

Meanwhile, I lived every day in lonely terror, until my symptoms became so overwhelming that I became suicidal. At that point, medicine was my last hope. I read books, meditated, prayed, had countless therapy sessions, including EMDR, and took massive action to change my life — but I hit a healing wall. I needed a boost.

The wiring in my brain makes it so ADHD medication that would make the average person speedy simply makes me feel normal. I am no longer listless and suicidal, disappointed in myself because my aspirations outweigh my self-belief. Before meds, it felt as if I was receiving random radio signals from everywhere. The one that always caught my ear never had anything good to say. Still, my disciplined nature dragged me through my days.

The stigma against medication and the dangerous abuse of these drugs by the general public has left many people unnecessarily living in misery. Prisons and homeless shelters are purgatories for the mislabeled, ignored and discarded members of society unlucky enough to suffer from mental illness. How many of those fortunes could have been altered with the right diagnosis, treatment and protocol?

2. Medication + Discipline = Badass

As a person that uses discipline as therapy, I once thought I could muscle my way through pain. Becoming older in the martial arts world means you have to fight smarter. That’s the trade off — you are wiser and have a much better understanding of your art, but your body does not react the same. Nature seeks balance.

But fuck that. If you take care of yourself, you can whip on the youngins long after your head is covered in gray. Combining experience with conditioning makes you unstoppable. That’s how I see my mental health approach.

If you have no clarity, you won’t make the best choices. You simply can’t see what’s in front of you without a trained eye. The frantic nature of the ADHD mind is like a white belt thrown into what we call the “shark tank.” It’s a relentless onslaught of tough competitors coming in fresh at intervals to continuously beat your ass. No place for white belts. That’s what life feels like off my meds.

The passions that occupy my time have kept my brain buzzing enough to distract me from my buzzing brain. Now that the unwanted chatter is gone, I can feel the good kind of buzz — the warm, fuzzy feeling of loving what I do without feeling like I have to do it.

Would I have preferred avoiding all the pain I felt over the years and just been medicated all along? No. If life didn’t necessitate that I acquire the skills that I have, I wouldn’t have been driven to pursue them. I may have relied too much on the drug. I would not have changed. But I have a feeling the relief of the meds wouldn’t have been enough — It’s just not who I am. I know that now. Eventually, I would have gone searching. At times I almost feel like I have an unfair advantage now. Technical ability and practical experience. Strength and skill. Balance. I’m glad it happened the way it did.

3. You Feel How You Eat

While nutrition has always been important to me for physical fitness, I was more concerned with appearance. As I got older, my focus became increasing my energy levels and feeling better. It wasn’t until after being diagnosed and forming habits around optimizing my abilities that I realized the importance of nutrition for good mental health. Inflammation caused by certain foods is detrimental to brain function and a frequent culprit in ADHD.

Once you’ve gone down a suicidal rabbit whole, giving up gluten is a tiny price to pay for sanity. Not that you know what sanity is — you just know you don’t have it.

Unfortunately, a lot of people don’t give a second thought to the type of food they put in their mouths. Lifestyle is a gigantic factor in mental fitness. Eating foods that promote brain health (fatty fish, blueberries, avocados) and avoiding processed products and sugar will ensure you have the energy and mental clarity to face the day.

4. Your Phone Is A Tool

People love to complain about how their phones have taken over their lives, but we’ve got the most amazing tools ever invented in our pockets. You can read books, listen to podcasts, watch Ted Talks — non stop learning at your fingertips — all the time.

But, with great power comes great responsibility (Stan Lee will never steer you wrong). Just like television can range from “The Sopranos” to “Jersey Shore,” your cell phone can educate or anesthetize you. If you’re not disciplined, your time will be eaten up swiping left to right and “liking” shit you couldn’t care less about.

Take advantage of your calendar and alarm features to schedule everything. Don’t assume you’re gonna remember, because let’s be honest, you’re gonna forget. Use voice memos and notes to keep track of ideas and journal your feelings and thoughts. You know you have to keep yourself occupied, so download the Kindle app and have a book at the ready for down time. Listen to a guided meditation. Take an online course on the go. Learn a new language. It really is endless. Use it wisely, and your phone is the ultimate weapon. No utility belt required.

5. Less Sleep Isn’t Helping

Feeling lazy had me convinced I needed to force myself to do more. That meant getting up earlier so I could get shit done. With a schedule that had me winding down at ten o’clock at night after teaching martial arts classes, it was tough to go right to bed. If I wasn’t careful, I’d lose a half hour of sleep here and there because I wanted to stay up watching television (which miraculously has a way of leading to chips or ice cream). Arnold Schwarzzenegger famously said that you should learn to sleep faster if you can’t get by on six hours of sleep. After years of insisting on shutting down for a minimum of 7–8 hours to promote physical recovery from training, I tried getting by on just 5–6 hours. No dice.

My brain and body just don’t work the same. The sleep I was getting wasn’t all that restful either. I’d frequently wake up during the night feeling restless. It wasn’t until I developed sleep rituals that I began falling asleep quickly and getting a deeper rest. With repetition, my body and mind got used to the same sequence of events every night leading up to bed time. Once I trained my brain, my body knew what to do as soon as my head hit the pillow.

By now, I’ve learned that seven hours is my sweet spot. Eight clean hours can make me feel like superman (mental note: start sleeping eight hours a night).

Recent research suggests ADHD symptoms are often a result of insufficient restful sleep. Sleep deprivation also exacerbates symptoms in kids and adults with ADHD. Your physical and emotional state is undoubtedly better when you get sufficient rest. Staying up late into the night with unproductive bullshit is a mistake, but so is getting by on five hours because you want to prove you’re a tough grinder. You simply won’t be functioning as well. It’s self-sabotage.

There is no magic pill to fix you. If you think of meds that way, you’ll be putting scotch tape on a gunshot wound. You’ve gotta stop the bleeding. Dig the bullet out. Repair the internal damage — then stitch it up. You’ve gotta let it heal and start actively rehabilitating if you want to get stronger. It’s not going to happen by accident or by divine intervention — even though it may feel like that in the end.

Although I’ve developed a good arsenal of skills to maximize my mental wellbeing, I still want to continue growing. My next step will be scanning my brain to understand what areas are being over or under stimulated and adjusting my lifestyle accordingly. As Dr. Daniel Amen, one of the nation’s foremost psychiatrists and a leading expert on brain health says, “Did you know that psychiatrists are the only medical specialists that virtually never look at the organ they treat? Think about it. Cardiologists look, neurologists look, orthopedic doctors look, virtually every other medical specialist looks — psychiatrists guess.”

It seems so obvious now that I want to run out and get my brain scanned as I write this. I’m excited to discover what changes I can make to improve my performance and sense of well being. Brain imaging will provide a road map.

No matter the cards you’ve been dealt, planning and hard work can help you become who you want to be. No circumstance is a limitation to an open mind. There are always ways to improve if you’re willing to search long enough. Luckily for me, I tend to get a little obsessed.

[talesofasufferingwitch]

Weed and Ana Masterpost

Weed: The benefits, the downsides, and some general information that should be more universally known.            Because of the legalization of weed in Canada, and the imminent legalization of recreational cannabis in the United States (sorry UK, I am not familiar with your marijuana laws but I am assuming that you are similar with the states. Correct me if I am wrong).             There are a million and one different benefits of cannabis, but with every good thing we see in the world, there is an equal amount of bad. For thousands and thousands of years, women used cannabis to aid with menstrual pain and childbirth, as well as headaches, nausea, lethargy, and more. The plant fibre itself was used for clothing, building material, food, and even fuel. Within the last 100 years, weed has been criminalized and decriminalized, thrown through clouds of hatred and lies, and was used as a tool to harm an entire class of citizens.            But as we have seen recently, a lot of the propaganda from the “war on drugs” is being disproved. And now that we have easier access, we can get more information from this infamous herb. Pros and Cons:            CBD, (Cannabidiol), is a compound within Marijuana. It is the compound that most people associate with overall anxiety relief, pain reduction, and mental function enhancer. CBD also reacts chemically with Collagen, increasing the healing process of bones and joints. Because of the CBD within the weed itself, smoking, vaping, and/or consuming canabis is highly beneficial for mental health issues as well as physical ailments. CBD reacts to our natural Cannabinoid receptors in our brain; we all naturally create THC (the compound that gives us the “high” sensation), and allows our brain to secrete more serotonin.           Depression is one of the most widespread, yet least talked about medical conditions in America, and research is showing that cannabis can help relieve people. Compounds like CBD and weeds different terpenes restore normal endocannabinoid function, and potentially helps stabilize moods and ease depression. IN CORRECT DOSES cannabis can alleviate anxiety disorders. In large amounts, cannabis can cause anxiety. “Start low, go slow” is a fun little saying that we like to use in the cannabis industry when talking to new users.               For patients with ADHD or ADD, cannabis provides a more effective and safer treatment to aid focus than Ritalin and Adderall when using the correct strain. A strain that promotes focus and concentration (like Sour Diesel) is extremely useful in small amounts. Lets remember, the best remedies require the least amount.

           Not only can cannabis aid in remedying mental and physical ailments, it can help treat extreme addictions! Individuals addicted to serious drugs like heroin, opiates, and cocaine are showing promise in ridding themselves of their addictions through cannabis therapy. Weed is providing a safer and much more controlled means of getting “high” and aiding the rehabilitation process in alcoholics as well as people, such as my husband, who are at a high risk of getting liver disease. There is a small chance of becoming dependant to cannabis, but I will talk about that later.

           You’ll never guess whats coming next; weed improves LUNG HEALTH. Lung cancer and emphysema have been shown to regress when cannabis is thrown into the mix. The smoke is damaging to the lungs, so to avoid that damage, ingesting cannabis via edible, tincture, or vapor is the safer alternative.

           Cognitive degeneration is pretty much unavoidable, but the good news is that studies are showing cannabis can stop the progression of Alzheimer’s.

           Cannabis reduces pain, spasms, nausea, PTSD, headaches, and asthma. The herb works as a bronchodilator, so when vaped or eaten, those suffering with asthma have better control of their coughing fits. However, it can lower blood pressure, but beware because it can lower blood glucose levels as well and spike hypoglycemia (again I will talk about later). 

The Economic benefits of cannabis: It can be used as a food source as a source of protein! It is used to create protein powders, and seeds can be purchased for consumption. It is creating new industries, cultivation, processing, sales outlets, and there will be more to come as legalization continues across the world. Traffic deaths have gone down, people are succumbing to the substitution effect; people are choosing pot over alcohol. 

Cannabis can help your pets, offering relief from pain and anxiety. It helps bad dreams, as it impacts the REM sleep part of the cycle, the part of the cycle where you dream. Those with chronic fatigue syndrome are effectively treated with certain cannabis compounds, terpenes, and strains, and on the flip side with other strains it can help you sleep.

Precautions: Weed is not for everybody. Mental health professionals warn against people with Bipolar Disorder and Psychosis from consuming. This is again, all individual. It is up to the patients discretion.            Those with family histories of schizophrenia, psychosis, multiple personality, and other personality-based disorders may pose the risk of bringing them on in themselves. 1 in 4 cannabis users with such a family history have said that their symptoms only appeared after smoking weed. We do not know, as this is anecdotal evidence. Hopefully more will arise as we are able to do more studies. A curious finding among people with schizophrenia and other pshychoses is that a history or marijuana use is linked with improved performance on tests assessing learning and memory.

           Despite what everyone tells you, weed is addicting, but not in the way you think. People become dependant on cannabis, not addicted. The reason why is not so dissimilar to someone to takes Advil everyday or prescription medication, it makes life … better. People become “dependant” on it because of the many benefits it brings to an individuals life, including my own. People get “bitchy” and “moody” without it because weed is a mood stabilizer and we would be “bitchy” if it wasn’t for cannabis in the first place.

Ending the stigma: People go around saying that cannabis decreases productivity and motivation levels. This is simply false. For lots of people, the medical benefits gained from cannabis (like pain management and mood management) make them more productive! Stoners burn approximately 1.3x the amount of calories on average that a non-user does, and even though stoners are shown to consume higher amounts of calories, the food choices are often better. We see a lot of the “junk food munchies” posts making fun of it, but in reality, stoners are more likely to make more consistent healthier food choices. 

Weed and ED; choosing what is right for you:            Cannabis users have been shown to be slimmer on average than non-users. This is because cannabis helps the body regulate insulin production, and manage caloric intake more efficiency. A common use for medical cannabis is to help regulate eating patterns. Whether you eat too much or too little.           Precautions: those of us struggling with an eating disorder where we are not taking in the correct amount of calories can be subjected to one of the absolute worst feelings in the world; hypoglycemia. Blood sugar (due to marijuana’s insulin response) and blood pressure drop considerably. You get nauseous, dizzy, confused, and HOT. Clammy, feeling like blacking out hot. This is dangerous. Always make sure that you have something around you, be it a Gatorade or a protein bar. You could die.

So now, how do you choose the right strain for you?           Terpenes: Terpenes are the flavour or smell of the weed you have. These are what differentiate the strains from one another, other than of course the basic indica vs. sativa argument. The terpenes are what cause the main benefit differences too, some promote relaxation and stress-relief, while other promote focus and acuity. The main terpenes are: Limonene, Pinene, Caryophyllene, Myrcene, and Linalool. Now, if you don’t know the difference between sativa and indica, here you go;            Sativa effects are more invigorating, uplifting, cerebral, and pair well with physical activity, social gatherings, and creative projects. Indica provides a more relaxed, physically sedating “couch-lock” feeling and is best before a movie or bedtime. Indica also is the strain that is said to promote “munchies”.            The ONLY reason these two differ, as every strain is a hybrid of the two, is the terpenes and cannabinoids.             If you go to smell something you like, does it smell citrusy? (Limonene) Or floral? (Linalool) Or is it spicy? (Caryophyllene) Does it have a musk? (Myrcene). Everything has a scent profile, and that consists of these terpenes. Me specifically, I love my citrusy and earthy strains, because that is what flavour profile sits with me best. They give me energy and don’t give me the munchies, unlike an indica strain which would commonly have Linalool, which is most commonly found in lavender, and is more relaxing.

            So, to pick the right strain for you. Start low, with a low dose (smaller bowl) and lower THC content if you can see the content. If you want to buy legally, you have the option of discussing your concerns/questions with one of the retail members there. There is exstensive training for Canadian employees so depending on who you talk to, you can get a lot of information! Decide whether you want an energizing or sedating effect (but I will warn you, Indica is KNOWN for the munchies. Sativa’s I find do not give you that appetite stimulation as much, only specific strains). And, if you can, keep a journal of the strains you’ve tried and liked. That will help you choose in the future. 

So, dealing with the munchies.            If you did pick a strain that is an appetite booster (Leafly.com is an amazing reference to see the terpenes, and overall benefits of the strain you are choosing), or if you just so happen to get the munchies (me, beig a seasoned stoner do not get that appetite boost as often anymore), here are some tips to deal with it:            -Always have a way to distract yourself. Be it tumblr, video games, sleeping, anything. Food tastes amazing while high, but music sounds just as good as the food tastes. Let your other senses wander freely            -Have a safe snack food, one low in calories. I have the tendency to crave salt, so I have those Special K brand crisps that are 80 calories for 27 of them. One whole bag is less than 500 calories, so I know I have a safe food.            - Smell something minty or sweet, it will trick your brain into sending the satiety signals. My favourite is a peppermint and grapefruit mix.            - Brush your teeth and floss. I love the feeling of a clean mouth, and honestly, we all don't do that enough.            -And most of all, know yourself. Know the strain and how it makes you feel. If you know it gives you munchies, try having tea and coffee a couple times during your high, or make preparations to avoid eating. It sounds odd, but it is actually comforting to pay attention to your own triggers and what you need.

          If you are new to using, here’s a few tips. Always try it with a trusted group of friends, you never know how you will react. Small bowls if it is a bong, stick to one puff/bowl until you know how you are reacting, takes a couple minutes to fully set in, but a couple seconds to feel it. Holding it in longer does not make you more high, that is a lie. The THC passes the blood barrier within seconds of entering the lungs. The reason why you may feel more high is because 1) your brain is not getting any more oxygen, and so of course you will feel light headed. That happens any time you hold your breath. 2) holding it in will probably make you cough, because it is an irritant to the lungs because it is smoke, and coughing opens up the lower chambers of the lungs and allows the smoke to touch more surface area, therefore absorbing faster. Don’t listen to anyones lies, exhale that bigass cloud be a baller, astound the with these FACTS.           If you are trying edibles/oils, only take one dose, and wait at least an hour. Trust me when I say that you will melt into the couch and it will not feel as comfortable as you think. Being stuck inside your head for 8+ hours is not how I like spending my time, thank you very much. I assume you think the same.           Never be afraid to ask questions about origin or reach out to someone with your concerns. One day being that aware and cognizant of what you are experiencing could save your (or someone elses) life.

           All in all, weed is an amazing gift that the world has given us to use. But with everything we are given, we also have a responsibility to use it wisely and within our means. And as with every gift, there is also a price to pay. It is not in itself inherently evil or good, it is how we use it. 

With much love,

Your friendly neighbourhood witch.

[bestbodyphysio]

The world of a physiotherapist

https://bonduniversity.tumblr.com/post/150095460476/the-world-of-a-physiotherapistToday is World Physiotherapy Day!

This year’s theme is #addlifetoyears - celebrating the important role that physical therapists play in healthy ageing.

Ben Wilkes decided he wanted to work as a physiotherapist in aged care when he saw the benefits his elderly grandmother gained from her visiting physio.

He studied a Bachelor of Sports Science and a Doctor Physiotherapy at Bond University, finding his niche as a community physiotherapist with Allied Connect where he works with patients in their own home, tailoring specific treatments that allow them to maintain their independence for as long as possible.

As part of their physiotherapy team, Ben generally works with patients suffering from chronic conditions - seeing around 30 patients on average in a day.

So, what does a typical day look like for Ben?

My day might start with a visit to a Residential Aged Care Facility to perform mobility assessments, post-fall reviews and equipment prescriptions such as wheelchairs and braces. I’ll then go to see patients in their homes to provide manual therapy, falls prevention and sometimes hydrotherapy. And, in the afternoon, I’ll be back in the residential aged care environment, working on pain management and rehabilitation.”

“The most satisfying aspect of my role is seeing a patient’s improvement over the course of their treatment, knowing that I have helped them to maintain their independence.”

Ben says he chose to pursue his studies at Bond University because of Bond’s small class sizes and personal interaction between academics and their students.

“When I was doing my undergraduate degree, the Faculty staff organised an internship with Sharon Hannon who was then coach of Olympic gold medallist, Sally Pearson. It was fantastic to get first-hand experience of program design and drill progression for a world class athlete.”

Bond’s physiotherapy program includes 42 weeks of clinical placements and the Faculty ensured we got to experience a wide range of potential work environments – from neurological physio at Cairns Hospital and working with amputees at Princess Alexandra Hospital through to cardiorespiratory at Tweed Heads Hospital.

“I decided to become a community physiotherapist after one of my five-week placements was focused on mobile rehab in the patient-home environment.

The degree also included a 12-week clinical internship and research project on top of our placements. Bond’s physiotherapy staff put me in touch with a contact at the NSW Police Force and I had the opportunity to undertake a research project with them. My pilot study into the Impact of a Structured Reconditioning Program on the Physical Attributes and Attitudes of Injured Police Officers was published in the December 2013 issue of the Journal of Australian Strength and Conditioning.

Become a physiotherapist in just two years through our graduate-entry Doctor of Physiotherapy program, or four years via our undergraduate Bachelor of Exercise & Sports Science program coupled with the Doctor of Physiotherapy.

First seen on: https://bonduniversity.tumblr.com/post/150095460476/the-world-of-a-physiotherapist