MAGICAL -...

16
HEALTHY LIVING FROM THE GROUND UP JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2016 MAGICAL Rochester Clinic: A holistic approach to health Eco-friendly wedding tips Planning for a summer hiking getaway LiveStrong for cancer survivors Meditation techniques

Transcript of MAGICAL -...

Page 1: MAGICAL - bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.combloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/postbulletin...suitcase, poured two glasses of homemade wine and relaxed with my better half. This

HEALTHY LIVING FROM THE GROUND UP

JANUARY | FEBRUARY 2016

M A G I C A L

Rochester Clinic: A holistic approach to healthEco-friendly wedding tips • Planning for a summer hiking getaway

LiveStrong for cancer survivors • Meditation techniques

Page 2: MAGICAL - bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.combloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/postbulletin...suitcase, poured two glasses of homemade wine and relaxed with my better half. This

I didn’t just walk at the

Awhile back, I scratched my leg. And as a diabetic it just wouldn’t heal. The pain got so bad; I could hardly walk. And I desperately wanted to feel better, especially since my granddaughter’s wedding was coming up.

Then I saw the amazing doctors and nurses at Olmsted Medical Center’s Advanced Wound Healing Clinic.

my treatment worked. I couldn’t believe how fast

wedding – I danced the night away !

– Karen

The story of our patients is the story of us.

Visit olmstedmedical center.org to learn more about our Advanced Wound Healing Clinic or to read more stories.

good health starts with great care.®

Page 3: MAGICAL - bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.combloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/postbulletin...suitcase, poured two glasses of homemade wine and relaxed with my better half. This

•rochester.radishmagazine.com JANUARY 2016 3

People’s Food Co -opPeople’s Food Co -opRochester

OPEN 6 A.M. TO 10 P.M. DAILY519 1ST AVENUE SW

ROCHESTER, MN 55902507.289.9061

WWW.PFC.COOPG O O D . H O N E S T . L O C A L .

People’s Food Co-op Deli, Bakery, and Cafe —

your local lunch stop!

Page 4: MAGICAL - bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.combloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/postbulletin...suitcase, poured two glasses of homemade wine and relaxed with my better half. This

• 4 JANUARY 2016 rochester.radishmagazine.com

The Friendsof

HELPING SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT HEALTHY LIVING

health and wellness

Live strong after cancer5 Calender of events

Check out these fun winter activities6 Vacations from Zany to Zen

Dreaming of hiking out of town and into tranquility8 green living

5 easy tips for an eco-friendly wedding11 health and wellness

Promoting a healthy lifestyle12 personal wellness

Calming a chaotic mind14

5

8

12

14

6

11

January/February

A new year is a chance for new beginnings and here at Radish, we’ve run with the idea. We’ve given the magazine a new look and feel without

sacrificing our commitment to providing quality content to our readers. Even our website has been updated! Head over to rochestermn.com and click Radish Magazine to see for yourself.

In this issue, we’ve covered a range of topics to help you live a more holistic and magical life this year. Learn about meditation (it’s not scary, I promise), Rochester Clinic’s commitment to lifestyle medicine

and ideas on how to make your wedding a bit more eco-friendly.

If you don’t already, come ‘like’ us on Facebook (RadishMagazineRochester) for more about living a healthy and sustainable lifestyle. And as always, we welcome your comments and thoughts. Send emails to [email protected].

Wishing you all a happy and healthy 2016!

FROM THE EDITOR

FEATURES

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

M A G I C A L

Page 5: MAGICAL - bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.combloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/postbulletin...suitcase, poured two glasses of homemade wine and relaxed with my better half. This

•rochester.radishmagazine.com JANUARY 2016 5

By Anthony Allen

Beating cancer is a tremendous feat. Treatment takes much out of the patient and also their friends and family. And don’t forget about recovery. Trying to

navigate life ater cancer can be dificult. That’s where LiveStrong steps in.

The LiveStrong Foundation was created in 1997 with the purpose of helping fellow cancer survivors and their families through and beyond a cancer diagnosis. Rebekkah Schear, LiveStrong Foundation Manager, Community Programs and Engagement, shares, “A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming between deciding on treatment, figuring out finances, and dealing with fear and emotional concerns. That’s why we’re here: to make sure people and families get the person-centered care they need, at the time when they

need it.” LiveStrong is a

12-week program dedicated to providing a viable means of physical activity and rehabilitation to individuals post-treatment. The

program centers on the individuals physical

abilities and personal goals. Goals may include the regeneration of strength and muscle mass post chemotherapy and surgery, improving overall cardiovascular health and endurance as well as the improvement of flexibility and basic functional skills used in daily life.

Since 2007, the LiveStrong Foundation has partnered with the YMCA in a greater efort to provide meaningful services and support to cancer survivors within local communities. The program has grown to over 400 YMCA locations nationally. The Rochester Area Family YMCA LiveStrong program’s certified instructors are required to participate in numerous training field disciplines that include basic healthy lifestyle principles, CPR and even extensive courses in lymphedema (lymphedema is swelling in the arms and/or legs, a common side-efect of cancer treatment). All this preparation helps them to

be better suited in providing survivors the best possible care.

The LiveStrong program not only ofers survivors the opportunity to improve their overall physical wellbeing but, equally as important, it gives them a foundation to build their emotional recovery as well. The program allows the survivors to bring friends and family every step of the way. Chandini Portteus, LiveStrong Foundation President and CEO, notes, “We work every day to help ease the stress of their cancer diagnosis. No one should face cancer alone.”

Fran Johnson of Kasson, Minn., graduated from the program early in 2015. She says she joined because she knew chemo was making her weaker and she wanted to be stronger. She gained much more than muscle mass, however. “I discovered I had joined a community of people with whom I had a unique shared experience—chemo—that many of my friends and family had not experienced…we discussed diet, hair regrowth and laughed and cried together.” It is this sense of commonality that LiveStrong provides to its participants. Because of the program, Fran says she has a group of lifelong friends she will always cherish.

Anthony Allen is a freelance writer and fitness center attendant at the Rochester Area Family YMCA.

For additional information, contact Talbird Lovan, Program Coordinator: (507)-287-2260 ext. 1013 or email [email protected].

health and wellness

Living strong after cancer

Friday, February 5, 2016; 7:00PM HISTORIC SHELDON THEATRE, RED WING, MN

Tickets are $10 for CRWP members, seniors (65+) & students$15 general admission (plus box office fees)

Buy tickets online: sheldontheatre.org/events/CRWP443 west 3rd St., Red Wing • 651-388-8700

More information at CRWP.netTravel from your backyard around the world in one fun evening event.

Door prizes and silent auction to benefit CRWP,plus beer and wine for sale. Come and get inspired!

Join the Cannon River Watershed Partnership’s

SECOND ANNUALSSSSSEEEECCCCOOOONNNNDDDD AAAANNNNNNNNUUUUAAAALLLL

GET PAID TO WORK OUT

ROCHESTER AREA FAMILY YMCA

709 First Ave. SW, Rochester

507-287-2260

WWW.ROCHFAMY.ORG

No Joining Fee! Bring this ad in to the Y and

receive a $0 joining fee. Offer expires 1/31/2016

$10 off your next monthly membership fees

when you work out 10 times a month at the Y!

Limit $10 maximum off per family and couple membership when working out 10

times a month. Not valid on scholarships, student, youth or short-term memberships.

Offer expires 1/31/2016.

Page 6: MAGICAL - bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.combloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/postbulletin...suitcase, poured two glasses of homemade wine and relaxed with my better half. This

• 6 JANUARY 2016 rochester.radishmagazine.com

Page 7: MAGICAL - bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.combloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/postbulletin...suitcase, poured two glasses of homemade wine and relaxed with my better half. This

•rochester.radishmagazine.com JANUARY 2016 7

Your Weekly What To Do GuideIn Print — Online — Mobile

Find yourself where the fun is.

Looking for the hottest guide

to what’s going on in the 507?

Visit www.PB507.com

for the area’s most

extensive events calendar.

Powered bythe Post-Bulletin

PB507.com

Your Weekly What To Do GuideIn Print — Online — Mobile

Find yourself where the fun isss.s.

Looking for the hottest guidee

to what’s going on in the 5077?

Visit www.PB507.com

for the area’s most

extensive events calendar.

Powered bythe Post-Bulletin

yy

PB507.com

501 N. Broadway • 507-282-2660 • www.struvepaint.comM-Th: 7:30am-6pm • Fri: 7:30am-5:30pm • Sat: 8am-3pm

DIYers,WE ARE YOUR

HEADQUARTERS!Non-toxic paints& stains available!

c paintsavailable!

Lemongrass Spa Presents

Sign up today!

Contact Sarah Koperski:

507-398-4441 or

[email protected]

Spa-la

!

Learn all about Lemongrass Spa products which include being 97-100% natural, animal cruelty free, hand crafted

and made in the USA!

Start your new year off right by ditching the chemicals and finding an affordable product line that works for all of

your personal care needs.

Free foot soaks, hand spas,

facials, makeup application,

massage, EO Mixology,

shopping, prizes and more

January 23rd 20162-5PM

At Cambria

400 S Broadway

Rochester, MN 55904

Page 8: MAGICAL - bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.combloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/postbulletin...suitcase, poured two glasses of homemade wine and relaxed with my better half. This

• 8 JANUARY 2016 rochester.radishmagazine.com

By Suzie Stier-Waletzki Submitted photos

One month ago my husband and I were in New York, New York. I can now honestly say a more accurate lyric has never been penned,

because truly, the city never sleeps.

Not so much as a micro nap or quick nod of in the back row.

Ever.It is constant and thrumming and alive. It

is crowds, taxis, honking, bustling streets and towering buildings. It is vendors and barkers on corners. It is an uninterrupted stream of people and cacophony and sirens and lights and sights and stores and illuminations to dazzle and dizzy the senses. It is ginormous meets Liberace. It is the phantasmagoria of every imagination with everyone invited to one sensational party. And everyone is dashing in haste to arrive and indulge.

We were hustled along in the throngs at Times Square, Herold Square, down 5th Avenue and around Rockefeller Center. We gawked in awe at the 30,000 LED lights on the famous tree and we admired the grandeur of St. Patrick’s Cathedral. We were entertained at prominent theatres by acclaimed movie stars and savored five-star cuisines, but never once were we able to see a star shining overhead.

In fact, it is the other side of the world from

my little home town burg of Spring Valley.I fancied the trip to New York my husband

gave me for Christmas. I delighted in seeing James Earl Jones and Cicely Tyson. I never imagined I would see Al Pacino within touching distance. Who wouldn’t dig that? It was an extraordinary experience.

But as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end, so, we boarded our plane and headed back to the land of 10,000 lakes.

As we drove into our driveway, I came to really understand that there is no place like home, silence is golden, and perhaps this country girl is a bit rustic for city living. Perhaps my little town blues will never fully melt away even in my new 55906 zip code. I unpacked my overfilled suitcase, poured two glasses of homemade wine and relaxed with my better half. This vacation had worn me out.

“Honey,” I said to my husband Mark, snuggling into him. “Next time we travel we should go to some remote, unpopulated, rural setting. Lots of trees and open skies, bubbling brooks and wildlife…well, wild life in the non-city sense of the word. Whattya say?”

I got no reply. He, unlike the Big Apple, slept. I day dreamed. My reverie was about a trip that would

rejuvenate, refresh and reinvigorate the senses. An of the beaten path backwoods little paradise, where hiking for hiking sake is the sole purpose. No agenda. No mad rush to get to one

extravagant destination or another. No heels, no dress clothes, no make-up, no hairspray. No fancy accommodations and room service, just nature, a tent and a sleeping bag, the double burner propane stove and hiking shoes. Oh, and bug spray. It’s a trade-of I am surprisingly comfortable with—swarming people for swarming insects.

We’ve been on camping trips before. They are on the top of my list of “vacations that rocked.” The laid back feel and relaxation and freedom are second to none. Hit the road and go. It’s that simple.

First picking the destination…and since Mark was sleeping, there was no harm in contemplating where in my mind I would choose to pitch the tent. Right?

We are crazy for Oahu’s Diamond Head Park where hiking an hour up the side of an extinct volcano is surreal and the views spectacular. Olympic National Park in the Pacific Northwest tops our list with trees so tall one can only wonder in amazement. Mammoth Cave National Park in Kentucky was too incredible for words and the miles and miles of hiking at Devil’s Lake State Park in Wisconsin let us breathless. We hope to return to these locations sometime again, but I was thinking of exploring some unfamiliar territory, some unknown neck-of-the-wood was waiting for us to traverse.

I am far too comfy to get up from the sofa and fetch a map or laptop, so out comes my mental bucket list and I begin to ponder.

Vacations from Zany to ZenDreaming of hiking out of town and into tranquility

Page 9: MAGICAL - bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.combloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/postbulletin...suitcase, poured two glasses of homemade wine and relaxed with my better half. This

•rochester.radishmagazine.com JANUARY 2016 9

I’ve heard Maine is lovely. Never been and light houses are cool. Check.Last month a co-worker suggested Glacier National Park. Check.Vermont. Like the name and they make good maple syrup. Wonder if

it’s as good as ours? This could be the way to find out. Check.Georgia. My daughter and son-in-law live there. Bonus—we could toss

in a visit. Check.I needed Google.I studied Maine first and their many park oferings bragging about

rugged coastlines and hiking trails, great camping, beaches and shelling. The reviews were favorable and many mentioned the peace and quiet and light houses. The Bay of Fundy caught my eye with whale watching and high tides. Nity and something you don’t see in Spring Valley…or Rochester for that matter. I put it on the list.

Next I looked into Glacier National Park. Wow, 700 miles of hiking trails, biking, camping, grizzly bears and mountain goats and photographic views that seemed to go on forever and ever. A real must-see I decided. I penciled it on the list as well. Wait, grizzly bears?

Vermont. Sigh. I had spied the breathtaking and beautiful Burton Island State Park. Not only rich with history, but, I see it can only be accessed by a ten minute ferry ride. Talk about secluded and away from the city! Stunning and fits my criteria. Another one makes the list.

Georgia was now on my mind. I learned there are 63 state parks and 12 national parks and historic sites from which to choose. I am winding down. My eyes are blurring but I must go on. I choose the link that brags ‘The Best of Georgia State Parks’ and read on. I can select from the best waterfall. The best stop for civil war history, best unsolved mystery, best place to spot an alligator—no thank you, and the best reality check on Tara.

I took that as a sign and decide that like Scarlet O’Hara, ‘I would think about this tomorrow.’

Or maybe I’d just put the names in a hat and may the best national or

state park be drawn. What was certain was come next summer we would take a trip and

commune with nature. Our tent, Coleman stove, propane lantern and cooler were at the ready in the garage. The double sleeping bag was ready to go in the front closet. Grab a deck of cards, a swim suit, and a change of clothes and of we’d go. Mark, ever the prepared boy scout, had maps, a compass, a Swiss Army knife and extra rope on hand. All we needed were some hot dogs and marshmallows.

Then I thought about our new stone outdoor fireplace in the backyard that would cook hot dogs and marshmallows with no more than a hike to the back patio. We could pitch the tent in the side yard and wake up to song birds chirping and whitetail deer 5 feet away and make cofee in a state of the art kitchen.

I guess I’d add the back yard onto the list to be dropped into the hat. Ater all, there is no place like home.

Suzie Stier-Waletzki is a regular Radish contributor.

Break out of your moldSoapmaking Classes Now Available!

Page 10: MAGICAL - bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.combloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/postbulletin...suitcase, poured two glasses of homemade wine and relaxed with my better half. This

• 10 JANUARY 2016 rochester.radishmagazine.com

EAT LOCAL • SPEND LOCAL • ENJOY LOCAL

Welcome to Historic Mantorville

A local landmark since 1854; locally owned and operated by the Pappas

family since 1946.

Be our guest …

“ Only at

Pescara.”

“ So, do you

eat local?”

Worldly fresh fish,locally sourced produce.

DOWNTOWN ROCHESTER

507.280.6900pescarafresh.com

FREE ADMISSION • FREE PARKING

Enjoy food available for purchase from:

Olmsted County Pork Producers: Pork Sandwiches, Tues., March 15

Dairyland Beef Producers: Beef Sandwiches, Wed., March 16

Olmsted County American Dairy Association: Malts and Ice Cream, both days

Agri News

FARM SHOW

34thAnnual

Check out the latest farming technology!

Tues., March 15 • 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Wed., March 16 • 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

GRAHAM ARENAS 1&2OLMSTED COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS, ROCHESTER, MN

1580 Fairgrounds Ave. SE (16th St. & 3rd Ave. SE)

Page 11: MAGICAL - bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.combloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/postbulletin...suitcase, poured two glasses of homemade wine and relaxed with my better half. This

•rochester.radishmagazine.com JANUARY 2016 11

green living

Seasonal blooms like sunflowers can be supplemented with succulents and thistles for textured bouquets.

A rented burlap backdrop maintains a rustic feel and can hide distracting wallpaper or cords.

By Allison Roe

T here are so many things to think about when planning a wedding. Thankfully, there are many eco-friendly options available to help you keep your wedding

as green as possible. Here are five tips we’ve pulled together for you.

1. Get your rent on Rental companies have more variety than ever before. Whatever your theme, they can accommodate with tents, tables, chairs, linens and décor. Resource Vintage Rental, of La Crescent, Minn., ofers unique vintage pieces for your wedding. From china to typewriters, chandeliers to silverware, you don’t need to stress about creating the perfect atmosphere. Renting vintage items instead of purchasing new leaves a lesser imprint on the environment, so you can feel good knowing your decorations were and continue to be reused.

2. Think outside the hotel ballroom

Though it can be hit or miss, Minnesota’s weather is oten beautiful. Think warm summer aternoons and snowy winter mornings. There are many gorgeous days perfect for weddings. Skip the indoor reception hall, which uses lots of electricity, water and non-eco-friendly cleaning supplies. Instead, opt for a more green outdoor venue with a tent, in case of inclement weather, or check out one of the many barn options around (barn weddings are trendy at the moment). If you do choose an indoor wedding, consider holding the ceremony and reception in one place to cut down on travel emissions.

3. Roses and peonies and hydrangeas, oh my Seasonal blooms are your best bet for a green greenery option. Do a bit of research to find what is in season around your wedding day and plan your bouquets around them. You can even include succulents and other non-flowering

plants in the bouquets. Consider eucalyptus, rosemary, artichokes, kale and other show-stopping ornamentation. Or skip the flowers altogether! Make a bridal bouquet from brooches or paper flowers. You can also get creative with your centerpieces. Instead of bunches of flowers, use potted plants on your table. Bonus—these make great party favors.

4. A git to remember Speaking of party favors, consider if they’re even necessary. If you forego favors, make a small donation instead to one of your favorite charities or non-profits. There are some eco-friendly options if favors are on your wish list. Seed packets or menus printed on paper infused with seeds are great for guests to plant their own flowers. Jams and jellies from local sources in reusable glass jars are another eco-friendly option that also supports the local economy.

5. Eat up Look for a caterer who utilizes local vendors. Work with them to create dishes using seasonal foods. Think asparagus for spring, fruit parfaits in the summer, squash soups for fall and winter. This will cut down on packaging and fuel emissions transporting out-of-season foods. Talk with your caterer if having an all-organic or vegan menu is important.

Wheat and eucalyptus add a rustic element to your flowers. Rented mason jars tied with a piece of twine are a rustic vase.

5 tips for an

eco-friendly wedding

Page 12: MAGICAL - bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.combloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/postbulletin...suitcase, poured two glasses of homemade wine and relaxed with my better half. This

• 12 JANUARY 2016 rochester.radishmagazine.com

By Nicole L. Czarnomski

Submitted photos

The Standard American Diet, also known as SAD, consists of a high intake of red meat, refined grains, high-fat dairy products, soda

and sugary desserts. Combine that with a sedentary lifestyle in an age of high stress jobs while raising a family and it can lead to heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol and cancer. But one clinic in Rochester has a healthy alternative. The Rochester Clinic’s healthy living philosophy enables patients to either reduce the medications taken for these diseases or reverse the efects of the diseases.

The Rochester Clinic was founded in 2010 by Dr. Jengyu Lai. He is a podiatrist and specializes in wound healing. In 2012, Dr. Thomas Harman joined the practice ater retiring from Mayo Clinic. Ater more than 30 years of prescribing medications to individuals sufering from many of the diseases noted above, Dr. Harman discovered living a healthy lifestyle could improve overall health.

Dr. Harman believed to truly practice the healthy lifestyle, he needed to develop better eating and exercise habits. In 2012, Dr. Harman began eating whole grains and plant-based foods, and in six months he lost 35 pounds. To date he’s lost over 60 pounds. Using his own success as an example, he began encouraging many of his patients to begin living a healthy lifestyle by educating them on how choose what goes into their body.

In early 2015, doctors at the Rochester Clinic discovered the Complete Health Improvement Program (CHIP) ater attending a medical conference. CHIP is a twelve week program that includes weekly meetings with a certified facilitator, a recipe book with simple recipes, a workbook, a textbook with colorful graphics and easy to read language, along with a pedometer.

Dr. Hans Diehl developed the CHIP philosophy. He is a Clinical Professor of Preventive Medicine at Loma Linda University in California. This program focuses on eating more but weighing less. It doesn’t promote limited food intake or counting calories. Instead of focusing on medications or surgeries to combat diseases, CHIP promotes healthy food, exercise and sleep, which can help prevent and treat diseases.

The CHIP program has been around for more than 25 years and focuses on a healthy diet, exercise, meditation for stress management and group support. It is taught by physicians, dieticians, wellness coaches or certified CHIP facilitators. There are three diferent ways to teach the philosophy. It can be taught at the community level, similar to instruction from the Rochester Clinic. It is also taught in a corporate environment, meaning companies can hire a CHIP facilitator to instruct members on their lunch hour. Or, CHIP can be taught medically. In this category, a doctor groups together patients with similar medical conditions and they complete the program together.

Meiping Liu, certified CHIP facilitator

at the Rochester Clinic, says, “We went through the certification program in California, and before prescribing CHIP to our patients, we tested it on staf members.” Liu states, “One of the staf members who achieved the greatest results weighed about 200 pounds. She was on multiple medications at the time and was prescribed an additional dose of blood pressure medication because the current dose wasn’t working.” This staf member went through the twelve week CHIP program and lost 20 pounds. Her blood pressure and cholesterol levels went down by 50 percent. “This staf member feels in control and enjoys healthy food a lot more. She is a happier person with an optimistic attitude,” says Liu.

The CHIP program begins with an education regarding diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, the importance of fiber, how to manage stress and how to treat your body. There are 18 diferent topics that are taught throughout the 12 week program. Liu says, “On day one of the program, the participants have their blood drawn to test cholesterol and glucose levels. Their Body Mass Index (BMI) is also measured. The participants have these same tests conducted on week six and week 12 so they can track their progress.”

CHIP sessions meet at Hy-Vee Barlow Plaza on Tuesday and Thursday evening from 6-8 pm. Hy-Vee’s chef, Eric Worth, creates recipes from the CHIP recipe book for the participants to try. If they don’t like the recipe, Worth improves or tailors them to his liking and teaches the participants how to enhance the recipes with fresh herbs or spices.

PROMOTINg A

HEALTHY LIFESTYLEhealth and wellness

Page 13: MAGICAL - bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.combloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/postbulletin...suitcase, poured two glasses of homemade wine and relaxed with my better half. This

•rochester.radishmagazine.com JANUARY 2016 13

The CHIP program also encourages exercise, but you don’t have to join a gym. It’s about using your own body as an exercise tool. Participants are encouraged to use a pedometer included in their CHIP kit to track steps. The goal is 10,000 steps per day. Liu says, “We want our CHIP group to adopt this healthy lifestyle, but it’s up to them to choose how strict they want to be with the CHIP philosophy. Some individuals don’t want to workout every day, so we encourage them to count all physical activities, like household chores, as exercise.”

Not everyone who attends the CHIP program is overweight or has a disease they are trying to overcome. Diane Borg attended the first CHIP session hosted by the Rochester Clinic in June of 2015. She was a vegetarian, but wasn’t getting enough protein in her diet. Her doctor told her she needed to start eating meat. For Borg, eating meat wasn’t an option. She was also confused by what the media was saying about certain foods. “I listened to the media tell me certain foods were good for the body one day, but another report told me the same food was bad for me. I was getting confused,” she says.

Borg heard about the CHIP program and signed up immediately. She felt confident registering for CHIP because she knew the program was scientifically proven and supported by medical doctors. She says, “CHIP gave me the

confidence and knowledge to continue life as a vegetarian. It taught me how to add nuts, seeds, soy and legumes for an added source of protein.”

Although Borg leads a healthy lifestyle, she said her husband hasn’t adopted her vegetarian eating habits, so they prepare separate meals. “When I make stir fry, I cook the vegetables together. Then, I cook tofu in a separate skillet while my husband cooks chicken in a diferent skillet. We share the veggies and choose what protein we want to add to our dish.”

Borg not only learned how to cook meals higher in protein, but she also changed her exercise habits. She walks three miles a day, and she incorporates strength training and stretching to her routine as well. “I feel more energetic since I started exercising,” says Borg.

Liu says, “Once the program is completed, [The Rochester Clinic] ofers continued support and additional resources. This program also fosters friendships between participants. These friendships are another way to ofer support along your healthy lifestyle journey.”

Medicare and some insurance companies cover the CHIP program depending on the patient’s illness. The 12-week program costs $799 and includes the kit, class time and all blood tests. The next CHIP session begins on January 19. For more information, or to register for the next CHIP session, call the Rochester Clinic (507) 218-3095. You can also visit their website, http://rochesterclinic.com/.

Nicole Czarnomski is a regular Radish contributor.

PROMOTINg A

• SHOP LOCAL •

2048 Superior Dr NW, Suite 500, Rochester 55901

SICK & TIRED OF BEING SICK & TIRED?Call For Your Health Check Today!

50% OFFNutrition Consult and Report of Findings

(a $75 value!)Expires February 29, 2016

50% OFFChiropractic Consult and Exam

(a $25 value!)Expires February 29, 2016

In a recent Radish

survey, readers

shared their favorite

topics to read. Recipes,

ways to be healthy,

places to shop & eat,

& local businesses

rose to the top.

• EAT LOCAL •• SPEND LOCAL •

• ENJOY LOCAL •

Page 14: MAGICAL - bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.combloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/postbulletin...suitcase, poured two glasses of homemade wine and relaxed with my better half. This

• 14 JANUARY 2016 rochester.radishmagazine.com

personal wellness

Calming a chaotic mindBy Ryan Paulsen

In any given day, there are 20 diferent things on the to-do list, and 30 other thoughts racing around on projects yet to come. In

a culture that encourages multi-tasking and an ever-accelerating pace of life, there doesn’t seem to be time in the day to breath.

However, many are starting to see the benefits in slowing down. Yoga and meditation have become mainstream practices to take a step back during the day and observe your body and your thoughts.

“Mindfulness meditation is the most primary and easiest way to transform experience. You get clearer mentally, and have an immediate positive impact,” says Heather Ritenour-Sampson, a yoga instructor and owner of her own yoga practice Durgamama.

Heather has learned the importance of meditation through her own experiences. “Meditation teaches us to be present with an experience. It’s the ability to bring awareness to one thing, to be in one place at a time,” she explains. Heather is studying to become a mindfulness meditation instructor. Mindfulness meditation requires focus on the physical sensations throughout the body as the practitioner sits with their thoughts.

Heather explained this process through an exercise. As we sat in a corporate conference room, she had me close my eyes and begin breathing. Focusing on my breath, she led me through my body by telling me to focus on specific areas. “Your ears. You might hear my voice. You might be listening to the shufling of people outside the door.”

She had me focus on sensory information my body was processing, the main focus of mindfulness meditation. “Your neck; maybe it’s sore.” Focus on the feelings and not my thoughts behind them.

As simple as these instructions were, meditation had suddenly become more complicated than I had thought. We moved to the chest, soon the thighs, then the ankles and feet. I sat on the hardened plastic chair attempting to completely let myself experience a mindful meditation, but that blister I got from my flats yesterday was throbbing, taking up my attention. I got angry because I specifically remember buying that pair of flats thinking I could avoid blisters by wearing tights. Suddenly, I realized the train of thought that had taken away my focus and I became even more frustrated. I opened my eyes.

Heather herself later admitted that this kind of meditation isn’t easy. “I’m not good at sitting still for long periods of time and not thinking.” Mindfulness meditation, however, doesn’t require the practitioner to suddenly be devoid of thought. What Heather and so many other meditation practitioners want others to focus on is the sensation itself. “Notice and allow.” Heather made sure to repeat these words as she talked about the importance of removing oneself from the multi-tasking brain. “It’s a myth that you have to sit still and not think about anything. It’s about not giving your thoughts so much power. They’re real but not true.”

I closed my eyes again and just repeated the words in my head (pain, pain, pain) as my mind calmed and rested on the awareness of my ankles. “Just label your thoughts and allow them to be there,” Heather repeated. Admittedly, this thought process was

a little uncomfortable. In a society consumed with the fast-paced, many would find the idea of focused thought and meditation unsettling, but there’s more to mindfulness meditation than that. “It’s not going to work if you tell yourself to calm down. You have to be okay with the discomfort, because we’re hardwired to look for problems and look for what’s not right,” explains Heather. I can remove the consuming nature of that multi-tasking brain and allow the feelings in my body to simply be noticed. Notice. Allow.

As I continued to practice this mindfulness meditation, Heather spoke of the benefits she finds in her meditation practice. She recounted a story about breaking a glass cabinet door in her kitchen, an act that would send anyone of the edge. “I repeated, ‘I’m good, I’m happy, I’m worthy,’ and I forgave myself.” By practicing the art of removing herself from her wild trains of thought, Heather was able to realize that the action does not define her. “At times I have more of a capacity for creativity and patience. I have a lot more capacity to forgive myself for my failures; for being human.” She has learned to forgive herself for the small things. How many would have carried the frustration and shame of breaking the cabinet door with us throughout the rest of the day? “Meditation helps with conflict resolution, stress management. It has helped me live a joyful life.” Meditation, though a simple act that many overlook, might need to start becoming a staple in a world full of chaotic thoughts. All you need to do is notice and allow.

Ryan Paulsen, a Rochester local and budding writer, is a first-time Radish contributor

Page 15: MAGICAL - bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.combloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/postbulletin...suitcase, poured two glasses of homemade wine and relaxed with my better half. This

•rochester.radishmagazine.com JANUARY 2016 15

Lifestyle medicine at Rochester ClinicThere are three physicians working at Rochester Clinic, each

is trained in a particular field but all are working together to

assess the specific needs of individual patients. The clinic is

unique—it’s focus isn’t on medication as a means to solve

all medical problems. Instead, the three doctors are apt to

prescribe “lifestyle medicine.” Dr. Harman practices family

medicine and says, “Most of the things primary doctors see

patients for can be helped or prevented if people live the

way they used to live by being more active, less stressed and

eating a better diet.”

Integrated practicesDr. Lai is a podiatrist at the clinic and many of the hip, knee,

foot and ankle problems he sees can be alleviated if people

lose weight. However, the joint pain hinders some patients

from exercising. That is where Dr. Jiang comes in. She

specializes in joint injections, which can ease the pain enough

for patients to start exercising. “Dr. Jiang relieves the pain,”

says Dr. Lai, and then “we look at lifestyle medicine…to

tackle the root cause.”

Rochester Clinic StaffFront Row (l to r): Mei Liu-Chief Financial Officer, Manli Jiang-MD Family Practice, Bao Vang-Medical Assistant, Christy Laanonh-Office Coordnator,Jengyu Lai-Doctor of Podiatric Medicine/CEO

Back Row (l to r): Nadine Tiedemann-Medical Assistant, Nancy Galligo- Coding & Billing Specialist, Thomas Harman-MD Family Practice

PhysiciansDr. Manli Jiang, Dr. Thomas Harman, Dr. Jengyu Lai

Family Medicine. Podiatric Medicine.

Major Insurance Accepted

3070 Wellner Drive NE Rochester • (507) 218-3095 • RochesterClinic.com

“Most of the things primary doctors see would be helped or prevented if people lived the way we used to live where we were more active, less stressed and ate a better diet.”

A New Approach

to Health

Page 16: MAGICAL - bloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.combloximages.newyork1.vip.townnews.com/postbulletin...suitcase, poured two glasses of homemade wine and relaxed with my better half. This

• 16 JANUARY 2016 rochester.radishmagazine.com

123 16th Ave. SW, Suite 500 Rochester, MN

507-252-5872 • 800-755-0055 • www.altra.org • www.drivealtra.org

At Altra, we have the opportunity

to make a positive difference in our

member’s lives and set them up for

a better financial future.

”- Brittany Johnson Altra’s Rochester Office Manager

Earn 2.25%APY*

*Membership eligibility required. A+ Checking available for personal accounts only. Qualifying accounts earn currently posted Annual Percentage Yield (APY) on balances up to $15,000; Portion of balance over $15,000 earn 0.50% APY. Account earns 0.10% APY if all requirements are not met in any given cycle. Rates subject to change monthly. A “cycle” begins the last day of one month and ends on the second to last day of the next month; this allows Altra to calculate and post dividends and ATM refunds on the last day of each month. All requirements must be completed and/or posted in each cycle to be considered a qualifying account. Debit card transactions processed by merchants and received by Altra as ATM transactions do not count towards qualifying debit card transactions. Only debit card transactions processed by merchants and received by Altra as POS transactions count towards qualifying debit card transactions. ATM fee refunds available for ATM withdrawals made from A+ Checking only. Dividends calculated and paid each calendar month on the daily balance. Contact Altra for complete details. Federally insured by NCUA.