The Marlborough Wellness Center relocated to 14A Winthrop Street in Marlborough on March 1st, 2010, and provides a place for medical wellness and education. We believe that there are two worlds: one with experts who fix people, and the other world of wellness that educates and empowers them to fix themselves. It is here where you will find professional practitioners who can meet all your health and medical needs. Judy Shields, Doreen Yenovkian Carlisle, and Hilary Athame, our licensed massage therapists, are going strong and specialize in different styles of massage! Julie Dalbec, owner and licensed acupuncturist-herbalist, continues to focus her practice in the areas of Japanese style, non-insertive pediatric acupuncture technique as well as a variety of men’s and women’s health issues. Diana Fernandes, our other licensed acupuncturist- herbalist, has focused her practice on the area of geriatrics as well as other various health conditions. You will find us out and about in the community this year at various events so please feel free to stop at our table! Ask questions, introduce yourself to the clinicians, and know we are here to help you live the fullest life possible! You can find us on Facebook or at our website www.MarlboroughWellnessCenter.com
Marlborough's Wellness Watch Newsletter (Current/Archived)
Fall 08: Seasonal Allergies
Treating and Preventing The Root Cause and Symptomatic Branches Naturally
Seasonal allergies, also known as hay fever or allergic rhinitis, is a common condition that can be treated with Chinese herbal medicine. Symptoms of allergic rhinitis include (but are not limited to): runny nose and/or nasal congestion; red, itchy eyes; sneezing; headaches; and/or dizziness. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, seasonal allergies are considered an invasion of wind with heat or dampness. The invasion of wind reflects that an external pathogen, such as an allergen, is affecting the body. If the external pathogen of dampness is also invading, there will be fluid issues such as runny nose and nasal congestion. If heat invades, symptoms such as red, itchy eyes will occur. This external invasion of wind, heat, and dampness occurs due to a weak defensive layer known as Wei Qi, somewhat similar to what we understand is our immune system.
The treatment of seasonal allergies with Chinese herbal medicine focuses on prevention by treating the underlying Wei Qi deficiency that allows for these symptoms to occur. During acute attacks in allergy season, treatments additionally focus on alleviating the symptoms themselves.
Fu Ping Feng San is a common herbal formula that is used in the prevention of seasonal allergies. This simple formula containing Huang Qi (astragalus), Fang Feng (Saposhnikovia) and Bai Zhu (atractylodes) should be taken before allergy season starts to strengthen the body’s defensive system thereby preventing acute allergic attacks. Huang Qi Ren Shen Tang Jia Jian (Modified Astragalus and Ginseng) is also a patent herbal formula that is used for the prevention of allergies when taken six to eight (6-8) weeks before allergy season starts.
Once allergy symptoms have started, there are various formulas one can take with some common ingredients. Xin Yi Hua (Magnolia flower) and Cang Er Zi (Xanthium fruit) relieve allergy symptoms of nasal discharge/obstruction and sneezing by unblocking nasal passages. Bai Zhi (Angelica root) is used to treat headaches, clear discharges, and open the nasal passages. Other ingredients can also be combined to develop a formula that addresses the specific pattern of symptoms the patient is exhibiting. These individualized Chinese herbal formulas are used to treat seasonal allergies effectively and safely. Please note that the patient should be monitored consistently by a licensed herbalist during the course of the herbal treatment to ensure quality of care.
Fall 08: MARK YOUR CALENDARS!
The Marlborough Wellness Center’s “Alternatively Speaking” Series is teaming up with the Northborough Chiropractic Center to sponsor Mrs. Christine Conway, a certified Feng Shui practitioner, as she introduces us to the Basics of Feng Shui! The event will be held at the Northborough Chiropractic Center on November 13th, from 7-8:30pm .
Fall 08: Tuscan Vegetable Soup – Ribollita
(thank you to Farmer John Mitchell of heirloom harvest CSA for forwarding this recipe to the membership!)
3 cups of cooked white beans
2 Tbs. olive oil, plus some for garnish
1 large sprig of rosemary
1 medium onion, diced
1 Tbs. fresh chili pepper, diced
4 carrots, diced
2 stalks celery ,diced
2 potatoes, peeled and diced
1 small zucchini, diced
1 pound kale, stemmed, washed and torn into pieces
6 plum tomatoes, diced
6 cups of hot water
1 Parmesan cheese rind (optional- check out http://www.restaurantwidow.com/2006/10/so_just_what_do.html for info)
1?2 cup of FRESH green beans, cut into thirds
1 Tbs. salt, A grinding of pepper, AND 1-1?2 teaspoons of celery salt (CAN ALSO USE coarse salt mixed with ground celery seeds)
Slices of toasted bread
Puree half of the beans and set them aside.
Heat olive oil in large soup pot. Add the onion, chili pepper, carrots and celery. Cook over medium heat until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the all the other vegetables and the rosemary, except for the cooked white beans and green BEANS and cook for 2 minutes. Then add the whole white beans.
Stir in the water and the pureed beans. Add the cheese rind. Cover and reduce heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 25 minutes. Uncover, stir in the green beans and cook for 5 more minutes. Add the salt and pepper. Toast bread, put in bowl and ladle soup over it.
Fall 08:Arthritis and Traditional Therapies
It is a known fact that as we age, our bodies begin to breakdown from all the years of sports, raising children, and creating careers. That wear and tear becomes most evident when we begin to feel pain or discomfort in our joints and bones. This is oftentimes referred to as arthritis: the breakdown of muscle/bone tissue and loss of joint capsule fluid that allows for smooth movement between the articulating surfaces.
Pain medications, physical therapy, and joint replacement surgeries are three of the most common treatments we know are used for the management of arthritis but what about the traditional therapies we have always been curious about but were afraid to ask and try?
Therapeutic Massage therapy is a great way to start relieving the surrounding muscle tissue discomfort. The massage therapist should be state licensed and able to individualize the pressure to your tolerance level during soft, superficial Swedish style massage or deep tissue work.
Acupuncture has started to really come unto its own via Western medical research proving that “after 8 weeks of treatment, pain and joint function were improved more with acupuncture than with minimal acupuncture or no acupuncture in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee.” (Acupuncture in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee: a randomised trial; Witt C, et al, Lancet. 2005 Jul 12;366(9480):136-43.) Acupuncture is excellent at affecting any and all joint pain and has been a successful form of international medicine for more than 2000 years.
Herbal Medicine, taken orally or applied topically, can also be incredibly helpful in decreasing inflammation. Herbal medicine can be accomplished within the Western herbal, naturopathic, or Traditional Chinese medicine styles. This is only a safe option when the prescription has been prepared and monitored by a licensed or extensively trained herbalist, and in conjunction with your primary physician. There are so many more treatment options for the management of arthritis pain before the need for surgery becomes inevitable!
Fall 08:Fall Appreciation Raffle
All of the practitioners at the Marlborough Wellness Center want to thank each and every one of our clients for their patronage during these tough economic times, as well as reward those who value wellness and preventative health therapies! Starting October 1st, and running through the month of October, we will be placing each client’s name into a free raffle for a fabulous gift basket that will include a $50 VISA gift card! If you choose to participate, your name will be entered into the raffle each time you come and receive a service from one of the Center’s practitioners. On October 31st, we will draw a name out of the “lucky fish” bowl and contact you directly to notify you that you have won! There are no limits and no hidden costs! This is just an honest thank you to you from us!
Fall 08:The Massage Corner: A Special for You!
Joyce Clancy, LMT, formerly of Bella Sante in Wellesley, specializes in Swedish relaxation, Deep Tissue, and Hot Stone massage.
Joyce thoughtfully treats you as a whole being rather than a set of isolated symptoms. She always treats her clients with intention and listens to the specific needs of each individual for an effective and satisfying treatment. In a world where there are so many overstressed lives, Joyce’s healing touch gives the body the relief and rejuvenation it needs to feel and live better.
Joyce is offering $10.00 off first visits for new clients. So don’t delay taking care of yourself or giving a gift certificate for a loved one for the holidays! Call the Center at 508-460-3399 to make an appointment!
Fall 08: The “Alternatively Speaking” Series Schedule
This series was established for educational purposes only so that the community can learn about different complimentary medicines and treatments, and make educated decisions about their health treatment options. There are a few details that remain the same for every presentation event:
1. The events are always the second Tuesday of every month from 7:00-8:30pm, unless otherwise specified;
2. The events are always FREE to attend;
3. The events will always have FREE food;
4. The events will always be held at “60Nobscot” woodworking studio and showroom, located at 60 Nobscot Road in Sudbury, unless otherwise specified.
5. Always RSVP to the presenter(s) directly;
6. Any other information you may need can be found on our website, www.MarlboroughWellnessCenter.com!
Here are the upcoming scheduled events so mark your calendars now:
November 11th: Life Support for Parents/Caregivers of People with Mental Illness presented by Debra B. Taylor
November 13th: Introduction to Feng Shui presented by Christine Conway. This event will be co-sponsored with, and located at, the Northborough Chiropractic Center.
December 2nd: Holiday Wellness and Gift Bazaar, more details to be mailed to you!
January 13th, 2009: Topic on Nutritional Eating, presentor TBE
February 10th: Introduction to Naturopathic Medicine presented by Dr. Erin Morrissey
And much more in the new year…!
Fall 08: The Marlborough Wellness Center is all about Appreciating your Fall WELLNESS!
The Marlborough Wellness Center is located at 331 Boston Post Road East, Ste. 7, and provides a place for medical wellness and education. We believe that there are two worlds: one with experts who fix people, and the other world of wellness that educates and empowers them to fix themselves. It is here where you will find professional practitioners who can meet all your health and medical needs. Jodi Eldridge, Jennifer Smith, and Joyce Clancy, our licensed massage therapists, are going strong! Julie Dalbec, a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist, continues to focus her practice in the areas of Japanese style, non-insertive pediatric acupuncture techniques and women’s health issues. Diana Fernandes, MAOM, Lic.Ac., also a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist, has written the focus article on seasonal allergies for us! During the month of October, we want to appreciate your dedication to wellness this Fall! More details can be found on the Fall Appreciation raffle inside the newsletter! Our monthly community education series titled “Alternatively Speaking” continues to delight the masses with free food and free education on the topics of traditional medicines/treatments for the common health conditions. Please see the schedule noted below for topics and take a moment to look into the Center! We offer a variety of treatments that can be found on our new and improved website and active blog at www.MarlboroughWellnessCenter.com!
Summer 08: The Healthy Kid Corner
Treating/preventing sunburns, bug bites and rashes naturally
For those of us who are concerned about the ingredients of kids’ sunscreens and bug repellants, you are not alone and you are in luck!
Sunscreen: We already know we want PABA-free to decrease chance of skin rashes, and at least 15 SPF broad-spectrum sunscreens to cut out the UV-A and UV-B dangerous sunrays. But did you know that you want “chemical-free” suncreens that include zinc-oxide and titanium dioxide as their main ingredients? Zinc Oxide and titanium dioxide stay on top of the skin and don’t wash off easily in water/with sweat. Sunscreens with these ingredients start working immediately after application, blocking the sun’s rays. Chemical-based sunscreens often take up to 30 minutes after application to soak into the skin before they start to work (www.BabyCenter.com)
Bug Repellants: Beware of DEET products. DEET is a dangerous chemical that is responsible for many unhealthy side effects. Have no fear…there are natural alternatives to DEET, made primarily from plant essential oils, which can protect you in less threatening circumstances. Look for products containing any of the following: lavender, eucalyptus citriodera, litsea cubeba, geranium,
rosemary, peppermint, cedar, and/or tea tree oil. For more information on properties of essential oils, go to www.crescentmooncreations.biz and click on “Learn About-Plant Oils” button.
If your child gets a bug bite, cold compresses can help relieve the itching and cut down on the swelling. A dab of Baking-soda toothpaste also has a cooling effect (Parenting, June 2008)
Rashes and Sunburns: ice packs, cold compresses, and an aluminum acetate solution (Burow’s solution) can soothe the itchy red rash of poison ivy/oak or sumac. (Parenting, June 2008)
For sunburns, a couple tried-and-true natural solutions for you to try:
1. Apply undiluted apple cider vinegar to sunburn by cottonball.
2. Apply mayonnaise as a skin cream to sunburn.
3. Apply peanut oil to sunburned area(s).
4. Apply thin slices of cold cucumbers, apples, or potato directly to the skin.
5 Apply cold, plain yogurt then rinse with cool water.
Summer 08: Corn and Black Bean Salad Recipe
(c/o Cooking light, August 2006)
Easy to throw together as a side or add protein sources (andouille sausage, tofu or chicken) to create a dinner!
2 cups fresh corn kernels (about 4 ears, not cooked)
1 cup diced red bell pepper (about one large)
1/2 cup thinly sliced green onions
1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1 – 15 oz. can black beans, rinsed and drained
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
Dash of salt
1. Combine corn, bell pepper, onions, cilantro, and beans in a medium bowl.
2. Combine vinegar and remaining ingredients in a small bowl. Drizzle vinegar mixture over corn mixture; toss well. Cover and chill 30 minutes.
Yield: 10 servings (serving size: 1/2 cup)
Calories: 74 (28% from fat)
Fat: 2.3g Protein: 3.4g Carb: 14.4g
Fiber: 3.4g Chol: 0mg Iron: 0.8mg
Sodium: 209mg Calc: 19mg
Summer 08: Do you want to defy your age naturally?
The Five Tibetan Rites or The Fountain of Youth
These simple exercises are designed to reverse the process of aging. In order for these exercises to work you must believe that it IS possible to reverse the aging process. Do you know someone who looks years younger than their actual age? What about years older? If we can accelerate aging, can we also slow it down or reverse it?
For thousands of years, eastern mystics have maintained that the body has seven principal energy centers that correspond to the seven endocrine glands. These are called chakras, and are like spinning wheels of energy. The five ancient tibetan rites are able to normalize the spinning of the chakras, thus normalizing hormonal imbalances in the body, creating lasting youth, health and vitality. Recent medical research has uncovered evidence that the aging process is hormone regulated.
Perform the rites daily 21x each. As a beginner, start with 3-5 repetitions and slowly build up to 21x. These exercises are a perfect way to start your day and here’s one to start with:
Stand with arms out from shoulders, right palm down, left palm up. Spin to the right, keeping focus on right hand. When done, return to prayer position and rest.
Summer 08: COMMUNITY RESOURCE BOARD
Marlborough Food Pantry and the Marlborough Community Services, Inc
255 Main Street, Suite 113, Marlborough, MA 01752
508-481-4080
The Marlborough Wellness Center’s primary philanthropic efforts go towards the well-being of the Marlborough Food Pantry throughout the year! Did you know that when the Food Pantry staff goes to purchase food from the Boston Food Bank that $100 can fill up a large van full of food for the Food Pantry’s recipients?
Located in the Walker Building on Main Street, Marlborough, the Food Pantry welcomes any donations!
Summer 08: The Massage Corner: Introducing…
The Marlborough Wellness Center is pleased to welcome Joyce Clancy, Licensed Massage Therapist to our practice!
Joyce Clancy is a 2007 graduate from Bancroft School of Massage Therapy in Worcester, MA. Her professional affiliation is with the American Massage Therapy Association (AMTA) and she is licensed by the state of Massachusetts.
Joyce uses various modalities in her massage practice including Swedish, Deep Tissue, and Spa Hot Stone.
“My mission as a professional Massage Therapist is to offer clients a treatment that encourages comfort, relaxation, overall well-being, acute and chronic pain management in a non-invasive, therapeutic manner. I use various massage methods in order to tailor sessions to meet each client’s comfort level and needs.”
Please come by and meet one of our newest staff members!
Summer 08: Help Us Welcome…Diana Fernandes, MAOM, Lic.Ac!
Diana Fernandes Lic. Ac., M.A.O.M. recieved her Master’s in East Asian Medicine, studying acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine, from the New England School of Acupuncture in Newton, MA. She recieved her bachelor’s in psychology at the University of Massachusetts in Dartmouth. Diana is licensed by the board of medicine in the state of Massachusetts.
Diana has practiced Traditional Chinese Medicine at Boston Medical Center and Shattuck Hospital in Boston where she interacted with and treated many patients with conditions from musculoskeletal pain to fatigue and insomnia. With over 650 hours of clinical practice and supervision, Diana has developed the skills and understanding necessary to bring Traditional Chinese Medicine to local communities.
Her love for people, health and vitality initiated a deep interest in the study of medicine in general and specifically Traditional Chinese Medicine. Diana provides an opportunity to explore the growing field of Traditional Chinese Medicine and experience the benefits of this ancient medicine for yourself.
Summer 08: The “Alternatively Speaking” Series Schedule
This series was established for educational purposes only so that the community can learn about different complimentary medicines and treatments, and make educated decisions about their health treatment options. There are a few details that remain the same for every presentation event:
1. The events are always the second Tuesday of every month from 7:00-8:00pm, unless otherwise specified;
2. The events are always FREE to attend;
3. The events will always have FREE food;
4. The events will always be held at “60Nobscot” woodworking studio and showroom, located at 60 Nobscot Road in Sudbury, unless otherwise specified.
5. Always RSVP to the presenter(s) directly;
6. Any other information you may need can be found on our website, www.metrowestfamily.com!
Here are the upcoming scheduled evenst so mark your calendars now:
July 17th: Botanical Skin Care for the Summer presented by Karen Nickley-Gerrity.
Taking a summer break during the months of July and August!
September 16th: Loving Communication for Couples presented by Marie-Patrice Masse and John Howe
October 14th: Introduction to Feng Shui presented by Christine Conway
November 11th: Life Support for Parents/Caregivers of People with Mental Illness presented by Debra B. Taylor
And much more in the new year…!
Summer 08: The Marlborough Wellness Center is all about Celebrating Your Summer STRENGTH!
The Marlborough Wellness Center is located at 331 Boston Post Road East, Ste. 7, and provides a place for medical wellness and education. We believe that there are two worlds: one with experts who fix people, and the other world of wellness that educates and empowers them to fix themselves. It is here where you will find professional practitioners who can meet all your health and medical needs. Jodi Eldridge and Jennifer Smith, our licensed massage therapists, are going strong and we are excited to welcome Joyce Clancy, newly licensed massage therapist to the Center! Julie Dalbec, a licensed acupuncturist and herbalist, continues to focus her practice in the areas of Japanese style, non-insertive pediatric acupuncture techniques and women’s health issues and is excited to welcome Diana Fernandes, MAOM, Lic.Ac. to the practice! Our monthly community education series titled “Alternatively Speaking” continues to delight the masses with free food and free education on the topics of alternative medicines/treatments for the common health conditions. The next engagement is Tuesday, June 17th from 7-8pm, located at 60 Nobscot in Sudbury (www.60nobscot.com), where Karen Nickley-Gerrity will be discussing natural botanical skin care options for the summer! Please take a moment to look into the Center and all we offer on our new and improved website and active blog at www.MarlboroughWellnessCenter.com!
Spring 2008: PEDIATRIC ACUPUNCTURE-Treating ear infections naturally
Have you found yourself talking with another parent, sharing medical histories of your children’s ear infections or inability to control quick onsets of fevers? It seems like the antibiotics aren’t solving the problem, and maybe the pediatrician isn’t too sure what to do either. Now you’re getting worried. This is a great time to try pediatric acupuncture! Most parents would back away slowly from whoever suggested this but for thousands of years, Traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine successfully treated pediatric conditions. Small copper, silver, and gold non-insertive instruments are used, touched lightly on the skin of the child. All the instruments could fit in the palm of an adult’s hand and are shaped like brooms and rakes and springs! Children enjoy playing with them first, to acclimate to the idea of these tools touching their bodies. Then, once we’ve touched them and given our favorite toy/animal their own acupuncture treatment, we treat the child. From the head, to the back, to the topside of arms, then to the topside of the legs is the usual map for a treatment. Depending on what the condition is, and its’ severity, one of the tools may be used at specific places on the body called acupuncture points. Finally, a home program is given to the parent and the child: to wear “stickers” for a few days on the child’s body. These stickers are placed on acupuncture points and consist of little balls or magnets to solidify the treatment’s medical message. The entire treatment averages about 15-30 minutes in length and the parent(s) is/are encouraged to participate. The most important point to remember is the treatment goes with the speed and desirability of the child. Conditions that respond the best are ear infections (acute and chronic), digestive issues, bowel/urinary disturbances, bedwetting, decreased attention, sleep challenges, immune system support, and overall wellness! Most parents are surprised by the success rendered after a few acupuncture treatments and continue to utilize this style of medicine throughout their child’s life!
Spring 2008: Recipe-Winter Minestrone
(c/o CookingLight Magazine, January/February 2008)
Prep all the vegetables a day ahead, and this soup will come together quickly just before guests arrive. Goes well with whole-wheat breadsticks or rolls.
2 teaspoons olive oil
1/2 cup chopped onion
1/2 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 1/4 cups cubed peeled acorn or butternut squash (about 1 medium)-can substitute with same amount of red potatoes, cubed
3/4 cup diced zucchini
1/2 cup chopped carrot
1/2 cup diced fennel
1 cup water
1 (14 ounce) can fat-free, less sodium chicken broth
5 tablespoons no-salt added tomato paste
1/4 cup uncooked ditalini (very short tube-shaped pasta)
2 1/2 cups chopped Swiss chard
1/2 cup rinsed and drained canned Great Northern Beans
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons grated Asiago cheese
1. Heat oil in a Dutch oven over medium high heat. Add onion, basil, oregano, and garlic to pan; sauté 5 minutes or until onion is tender. Add squash/potatoes and next 3 ingredients (through fennel); sauté 5 minutes. Stir in one cup water, broth, and tomato paste; bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer 10 minutes or until vegetables are crisp-tender. Stir in pasta; cook 8 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add chard; cook 3 minutes, Add beans; cook 2 minutes or until thoroughly heated. Stir in pepper. Serve with cheese sprinkled on top.
Yield: 6 servings (serving size: about 1 cup minestrone and 1 teaspoon cheese)
Calories: 102 (22% from fat) Carb: 16.7 Calcium: 71mg
Fat: 2.5 (sat 0.7g, mono 1.4g, poly 0.2g) Fiber: 3.6g
Protein: 4.5g Chol: 2mg Iron: 1.6mg Sodium: 263mg
Spring 2008: COMMUNITY RESOURCE BOARD
Assabet Valley Area Family Network
196 Pleasant Street, Marlborough, MA 01752
Director Rosemary Schantz , 508-485-0085
Provides FREE family education and support to all families with children age pre-birth through 3 years who live in Hudson, Marlboro, Northboro, Southboro, and Westboro and is sponsored by the Assabet Valley Collaborative. Playgroups, parent education opportunities, and much more!
Check out their website at www.avafn.org and receive free newsletters!
Spring 2008: Spotlight on Children’s Over-The-Counter (OTC) Cold Remedies
Once the news was out that the FDA urged parents to avoid children’s over-the-counter cough and cold medicines, many parents found themselves with a few questions. Why were they banned and how can parents now safely ease their child’s discomfort?
In September 2007, the FDA released a report that revealed that from 1969 to 2006, 54 children died after taking decongestants, and 69 children died after taking antihistamines. It starts with the child’s biology. Very simply, babies under 6 months do not have the capability to breakdown the chemical dextromethorphan found in cough suppressant remedies. Pseudoephedrine, a nasal decongestant chemical, has a similar issue. Thus, they can build up in the baby’s body and are viewed as toxins by the child’s liver.
Try a few of the following safer herbal options (which can be found at your local natural health food store):
Nasal relief: Hyland’s Sniffles ‘n Sneezes 4 Kids which contains zinc gluconate which can shorten the duration of colds.
Chest herbal rub: Nature’s Baby Organics Ah-Choo chest rub, made of olive oil, eucalyptus, and tea tree oil.
Sore throats and coughs: Slippery Elm bark and cherry bark lozenges for kids one year and older.