By: Liam Gallagher

Art has long been recognized as a powerful medium for expression, but its role in healing goes far beyond mere aesthetics. In the world of art therapy, creativity becomes a conduit for emotional and psychological well-being. Oracle Kaia Ra, spiritual leader and Author of The Sophia Code, delves into the transformative potential of using art as a therapeutic tool.

From ancient civilizations to modern times, the healing properties of art have been acknowledged across cultures. It wasn’t until the 20th century that art therapy emerged as a formal practice, blending psychological principles with artistic expression. Today, it stands as a dynamic field, offering a unique avenue for individuals to explore their inner worlds and navigate the complexities of human experience.

Through painting, drawing, sculpting, dancing, acting, and other forms of creative expression, individuals can tap into their subconscious, process emotions, and gain insights into their mental health. Kaia Ra lends her exceptional insight to exploring the profound impact of art on the journey toward healing and self-discovery.

Understanding Art Therapy and Healing through Art

Art therapy is a specialized form of mental health treatment that utilizes the creative process of making art to improve and enhance the emotional, psychological, and social well-being of individuals. Fundamentally, it operates on the principle that artistic expression can serve as a powerful tool for communication and self-exploration.

Unlike traditional talk therapy, where verbal dialogue is the primary mode of communication, art therapy allows individuals to express themselves non-verbally through various art mediums such as painting, drawing, sculpting, and collage-making. This non-verbal aspect of art therapy can be particularly beneficial for individuals who find it challenging to articulate their thoughts and feelings verbally.

The art therapist plays a pivotal role in guiding and facilitating the therapeutic process. They create a safe and supportive environment where clients can explore their inner worlds through art. Additionally, art therapists are trained to interpret the symbolic meanings behind the artwork, providing insights into the client’s emotions, experiences, and subconscious thoughts. Through this collaborative process, individuals can gain self-awareness, process unresolved emotions, and work towards personal growth and healing.

The Psychological and Healing Benefits of Creating Art

Engaging in artistic activities offers a myriad of psychological benefits that contribute to overall well-being. 

“Creating art is a profound medium and vehicle for personal healing,” says Oracle Kaia Ra. “Creativity is a mindset that offers us a bridge to our most inner selves, allowing for a form of transcendent expression that words often cannot capture. Through the act of creating, we can tap into the deepest wells of our being and discover compassion for what we survived. Our soul’s artistic expression is a natural resource that we can turn to for a profound sense of peace as we recover our sense of self from the effects of trauma.”

Creating art promotes relaxation and stress reduction by shifting focus away from worries and distractions toward the present moment. Immersing oneself in artistic endeavors can induce a state of flow where time seems to suspend and worries dissipate. This meditative quality of artmaking fosters a sense of calmness and inner peace, providing respite from the demands of everyday life.

Art has the potential to facilitate emotional healing by allowing individuals to process and release pent-up emotions in a safe and constructive manner. Whether through painting, drawing, or sculpting, creating art can serve as a cathartic outlet for emotional expression, helping individuals confront and navigate their inner turmoil. Overall, the psychological benefits of engaging in artistic activities are profound, offering a holistic approach to self-care and personal growth.

Art Therapy Techniques and Approaches

Art therapy sessions encompass a diverse array of techniques and approaches tailored to meet the unique needs and preferences of individuals. One fundamental aspect involves selecting appropriate art mediums and materials that resonate with the client’s interests and therapeutic goals. Whether it’s painting, drawing, collage-making, or sculpting, the choice of medium plays a crucial role in facilitating self-expression and exploration.

“In the silence of meditation, we find the whispers of our soul guiding us towards our true essence,” says Oracle Kaia Ra. “This sacred practice allows us to disconnect from the chaos of the external world and connect with the infinite wisdom and peace that lies within. It is here, in this inner sanctuary, that we discover the true power of our higher selves.” 

By creating art based on these visualizations, individuals can delve deeper into their subconscious and unearth insights into their psychological landscape. Mandala creation is another popular method utilized in art therapy, offering a structured and symbolic framework for self-expression and reflection. The circular nature of mandalas represents wholeness and unity, providing a meditative space for individuals to explore themes of balance, harmony, and inner peace.

Narrative storytelling through art allows clients to construct visual narratives that reflect their personal experiences, aspirations, and challenges. By externalizing their narratives through artistic expression, individuals can gain perspective, process emotions, and rewrite their stories in empowering ways. Overall, the diverse range of art therapy techniques and approaches offers a rich tapestry of possibilities for self-discovery, healing, and growth.

Applications of Art in Healing

Art therapy’s versatility extends across a wide spectrum of populations and settings, making it a valuable tool in various fields of mental health and well-being. Within clinical settings, art therapy is integral to mental health treatment, offering a non-intrusive avenue for individuals to explore and process their emotions, experiences, and traumas. It provides a safe space for clients to confront and navigate complex psychological issues under the guidance of trained art therapists.

In the realm of trauma recovery, art therapy emerges as a powerful modality for facilitating healing and resilience. Through creative expression, individuals can externalize their trauma narratives, reclaim a sense of agency, and embark on a journey of empowerment and self-discovery.

“Living from the space of our Higher Self allows us to navigate life with grace and wisdom. It is not about escaping the world but engaging with it from a place of deep inner alignment. When we act from this space, our decisions, interactions, and creations are infused with the essence of our truest selves, leading to a life that is not only fulfilling but also profoundly impactful,” says Kaia Ra. 

Whether it’s recovering from physical injuries, coping with neurological conditions, or navigating substance abuse recovery, art therapy offers a holistic approach to healing that integrates mind, body, and spirit. By providing a means of expression and coping, art therapy equips individuals with valuable tools for managing symptoms and fostering resilience. The diverse applications of art therapy underscore its significance as a transformative force in promoting mental health and well-being across diverse populations and settings.

 

Published By: Aize Perez

By: Hippocratic AI

Munjal Shah stressed the company’s “safety-first journey” and plans to fund Phase 3 of tests of its constellation of LLMs, which provide nondiagnostic medical services.

Hippocratic AI, a startup focused on integrating generative artificial intelligence into nondiagnostic health care applications, announced a valuation of $500 million following the closure of a recent $53 million Series A funding round. This latest round brings the company’s total funding to $120 million. It was led by Premji Invest and General Catalyst, along with contributions from SV Angel, Memorial Hermann Health System, and existing investors such as Andreessen Horowitz (a16z) Bio + Health, Cincinnati Children’s, WellSpan Health, and Universal Health Services.

Hippocratic AI co-founder and CEO Munjal Shah says the company will use the funds to accelerate product development and conduct Phase 3 of testing of its healthcare large language model.

“When we started the company, we prioritized safety as our top value. This is why we named the company after the physicians’ Hippocratic oath and made the tagline ‘Do No Harm,’” said Shah in a statement. “This has been our guiding principle since the company’s founding. Our focus on safety testing our product in multiple phases and transparent publication of the results for everyone to see is the next down payment in this safety-first journey. Our selection of partners who align with our values and have the patience to let us pursue safety over revenue and profits further underscores our commitment to these values.”

What Does Hippocratic AI Do?

Munjal Shah founded Hippocratic AI in 2023 to develop artificial intelligence agents that assist with low-risk, nondiagnostic, patient-facing tasks. The company is building a “constellation” of LLMs that use generative AI, the technology behind popular AI chatbots like ChatGPT, to provide services like patient navigation, chronic care nursing, and dietitian advice.

While a chatbot can’t replace a human nurse, the hope is that the company’s technology can help address the global shortage of healthcare professionals such as nurses, social workers, and nutritionists by reaching more patients than would be feasible for a human facing the stresses of everyday medical work and life. 

Hippocratic AI’s technology is based on its Polaris architecture, a multiagent LLM constellation optimized for real-time healthcare conversation. This system combines a primary generative AI conversational agent with numerous specialist support agents, each honed for specific medical tasks. The design allows for nuanced, patient-friendly dialogue that aligns closely with the professional conduct and tone of nurses, medical assistants, social workers, and nutritionists.

Training Empathetic AI

The training process for these AI agents is designed to prepare them for a wide array of patient interactions. Initial training phases involve evidence-based research and simulated conversations crafted with the input of U.S.-licensed nurses and patient actors. This approach facilitates the development of AI agents that both understand medical information and can engage in natural and supportive dialogue with patients.

Subsequent rounds of training incorporate AI-generated conversations, which healthcare professionals review and potentially revise. This iterative process allows for continuous improvement and adaptation of the agents’ conversational skills and medical knowledge.

The AI is trained to perform tasks such as checking on patient wellness, reviewing medication adherence, and providing preoperative instructions within a supportive and empathetic conversation. 

In March 2023, Hippocratic AI announced a partnership with chipmaker Nvidia to reduce latency for real-time patient interactions.

 “Nvidia’s technology stack is critical to achieving the conversational speed and fluidity necessary for patients to naturally build an emotional connection with Hippocratic’s Generative AI healthcare agents,” said Munjal Shah in a statement. 

How Does an LLM Compare to a Human Health Care Worker?

Over 1,100 U.S.-licensed nurses and more than 130 U.S.-licensed physicians have participated in testing the LLMs across various dimensions, including medical safety, conversational appropriateness, and empathy. 

For Phase 3, the company’s testing criteria stipulate that 5,000 licensed nurses and 500 licensed physicians and the enterprise’s health system collaborators must fulfill the testing requirements.

“We’re going to sit here until it’s safe, as determined by clinicians,” Shah stated in a recent interview.

In addition to announcing its latest funding round, Hippocratic AI released data from its internal research comparing its LLMs with human medical professionals and other LLMs. The results suggest that its agents are learning to outperform humans in several nondiagnostic tasks.

It was found that AI delivered correct medical advice 96.79% of the time, which is notably higher than the 81.16% for human nurses alone. Instances of incorrect advice from the AI that resulted in no harm were 1.83%, minor harm was 1.32%, and severe harm was a negligible 0.06%.

In contrast, human nurses provided incorrect advice, leading to no harm in 14.72% of cases and minor harm in 4.12% of cases; there were no cases of severe harm. 

In addition, Hippocratic AI’s constellation significantly outperformed Google’s Llama 2 70B Chat and even OpenAI’s GPT-4 in recognizing the impact of medications on lab tests, with a success rate of roughly 79%. This rate was higher than GPT’s 74%, Llama’s 0%, and human nurses’ 63%. 

It also excelled at identifying condition-specific disallowed over-the-counter drugs, achieving an 88.73% success rate, a task where, again, both the other LLMs and humans lagged considerably behind, with success rates ranging from 30-45%. For detecting toxic OTC dosages, Hippocratic AI’s system scores 81.50%, compared to GPT-4’s 38.06%, Llama 2’s 9.11%, and humans’ 57.64%. 

Hippocratic AI has also asked human nurses to compare its LLM’s performance of bedside manner measures to those of other human nurses. Patients felt nearly equally comfortable confiding in both the LLMs and human nurses, with scores of 88.93% and 88.81%, respectively. Still, the LLM was deemed more successful at getting to know patients individually, scoring 78.43% compared to human nurses at 57.58%. The LLMs also excelled in creating and seizing opportunities to educate patients about their conditions, a key goal for Hippocratic AI, achieving an 89.82% score and outperforming human nurses who scored 80.64%.

However, despite these promising results, human nurses were still considered slightly more effective overall, with a score of 87.34%, topping the AI’s 85.66%. 

The Future of Healthcare AI

Hippocratic AI’s development indicates a cautious yet optimistic approach toward integrating AI into health care. The company continues to carry out a multiphase safety testing protocol, engaging with a broad network of healthcare systems and professionals to validate its AI agents.

However, the company’s funding achievements in roughly two years of operations speak to the potential trajectory of the healthcare AI space. With a focus on safety, strategic partnerships, and a clear vision for the application of generative AI in healthcare, Munjal Shah’s Hippocratic AI could be poised to play a central role as AI continues to be one of the most discussed and well-financed areas of health care innovation.

 

Published By: Aize Perez

In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare, reproductive services stand out as a domain where the need for inclusivity, personalization, and affordability is profoundly pronounced. Within this context, Muna Fertility emerges as a beacon of hope and innovation. With its roots deeply embedded in the philosophy of providing care that transcends conventional boundaries, Muna Fertility is not just another clinic; it’s a movement towards redefining fertility care.

Founded by Dr. Karenne Fru, an eminent figure with accolades such as MD, PHD, and FACOG to her name, Muna Fertility embodies a unique ethos. The name ‘Muna,’ derived from the Akum language meaning “My Child,” encapsulates the essence of this institution. It is born from Dr. Fru’s visionary perspective on what fertility care should embody – accessibility, personalization, and a focus on marginalized communities. “Muna Fertility was born out of a desire to manifest my vision of what fertility care could look like. Care that centers marginalized individuals so that the care is improved for everyone who needs it,” Dr. Fru articulates.

Nestled in the heart of innovation and compassion, Muna Fertility’s new facility stands as a testament to their commitment to revolutionizing reproductive healthcare. This state-of-the-art establishment isn’t just about advanced technological prowess; it’s about creating an environment where every individual feels seen, heard, and valued. From the moment one steps into this sanctuary of hope, it becomes evident that Muna isn’t merely about providing services; it’s about crafting bespoke journeys toward parenthood or fertility preservation.

At the core of Muna’s philosophy lies an unwavering dedication to patient education and care. Understanding that each patient’s journey is unique – an n-of-1 – they place immense emphasis on hyper-personalized care plans. These are not cookie-cutter solutions but carefully curated pathways designed in partnership with patients themselves. This collaborative approach ensures that every plan aligns perfectly with individual needs, preferences, and circumstances.

Affordability is another pillar upon which Muna stands tall. In an era where reproductive services often come with exorbitant price tags rendering them inaccessible to many who need them most, Muna breaks barriers by offering cost-effective solutions without compromising on quality or efficacy. Their mission to democratize access to top-tier reproductive care means that more people can now embark on their fertility journeys without financial strain overshadowing their hopes and dreams.

But what sets Muna apart in a sea of fertility clinics? It’s their genuine commitment to serving marginalized communities – those often left behind or overlooked by mainstream healthcare systems. By focusing on these groups, Muna not only provides much-needed services but also contributes to broader conversations around equity in healthcare access and treatment outcomes.

Moreover, in today’s digital age where online presence significantly impacts reach and engagement, Muna actively connects with their community through social media platforms like Instagram and their website. These channels serve as conduits for education, support, and inspiration – extending Muna’s ethos beyond physical confines into global spaces where conversations around fertility can flourish uninhibited.

As we delve deeper into what makes Muna truly groundbreaking, it becomes clear that this isn’t just about state-of-the-art facilities or cutting-edge technologies; it’s about how these tools are wielded with empathy at their core—how innovation serves humanity in its most tender aspirations: To love and be loved through the gift of children.

In conclusion, through meticulously crafted patient-centric approaches combined with relentless pursuit for inclusivity and affordability—the essence distilled from Dr. Karenne Fru’s vision—Muna Fertility isn’t just pioneering new pathways in reproductive health care; they are setting new standards for how medical institutions should engage with those they serve: With heart-led science transforming lives one precious dream at a time.

Published by: Nelly Chavez

In a world that is becoming increasingly complex and challenging, the need to equip our youth with leadership skills has never been more critical. Tactical training, often associated with law enforcement and military disciplines, offers an unexpected but fertile ground for developing these crucial abilities in young individuals. Programs like those offered by 88 Tactical are pioneering in this space, demonstrating that the principles underlying tactical training can significantly contribute to youth leadership development.

The Foundation of Leadership in Tactical Training

Tactical training, at its core, is about preparing individuals to make quick, informed decisions in high-pressure situations. This foundation is incredibly relevant to leadership development, as it emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork—skills essential for any leader.

Critical Thinking and Decision Making

One of the primary benefits of tactical training is its emphasis on critical thinking and decision making. Young individuals learn to assess situations quickly, consider various outcomes, and make decisions that could have significant impacts. This process closely mirrors the decision-making process in leadership roles, where choices often have far-reaching consequences.

Teamwork and Communication

Tactical training inherently requires teamwork. Participants learn to communicate effectively, delegate tasks, and support each other to achieve common goals. These experiences in collaboration and communication are directly transferable to leadership, where the ability to work with others and articulate ideas clearly is paramount.

Handling Pressure and Adapting to Change

Leaders are frequently under pressure and must adapt to rapidly changing situations. Tactical training provides a controlled environment where youth can learn to manage stress, maintain composure, and adapt strategies as situations evolve. These experiences build resilience and flexibility, qualities that are invaluable for leaders.

Building Confidence and Responsibility

A significant aspect of leadership is confidence in one’s abilities and a sense of responsibility for one’s actions and their impact on others. Tactical training programs, particularly those focused on youth development, place a strong emphasis on building self-confidence and instilling a sense of responsibility.

Empowerment Through Skill Development

Learning and mastering new skills, especially those that have real-world applications, can be incredibly empowering for young individuals. This sense of accomplishment boosts self-esteem and confidence, qualities that are essential for effective leadership.

Understanding the Impact of Actions

Tactical training also teaches that actions have consequences, and it encourages participants to consider the effects of their decisions on their team and the broader community. This understanding fosters a sense of responsibility, a critical attribute for any leader who must make choices that affect others.

The Role of 88 Tactical in Youth Leadership Development

88 Tactical, whose organization name originates from law enforcement code 88, indicating that all is safe, stands out as a leader in integrating tactical training with youth leadership development. Their programs are designed not just to teach tactical skills but to cultivate the qualities necessary for leadership in young participants.

Tailored Youth Programs

Understanding that leadership skills can be nurtured from a young age, there are programs offered specifically tailored to young individuals. These programs focus on developing not only physical skills but also critical life skills that form the foundation of strong leadership.

Creating a Supportive Environment

By creating a supportive and challenging environment, itl encourages young individuals to step out of their comfort zones, take on leadership roles, and engage in teamwork. This environment plays a crucial role in helping youth realize their potential as leaders.

The Impact on the Community

The benefits of integrating tactical training into youth leadership development extend beyond the individual participants. These programs have a profound impact on the community as a whole.

Cultivating Future Leaders

By investing in the leadership development of its youth, the community is essentially cultivating its future leaders. These are individuals who will be equipped with the skills to make positive changes, guide others, and face challenges with resilience and ingenuity.

Enhancing Community Safety and Cohesion

Tactical training also contributes to community safety. Young leaders who are confident, responsible, and skilled in emergency preparedness can play pivotal roles in enhancing the safety and cohesion of their communities.

Conclusion: A Future-Forward Approach to Leadership Development

Integrating tactical training into youth development initiatives represents a forward-thinking approach to nurturing the next generation of leaders. The unique combination of physical skill development with critical thinking, teamwork, and responsibility offers a comprehensive model for leadership education. Programs like those offered by 88 Tactical are at the forefront of this innovative approach, providing young individuals with the tools they need to lead confidently, responsibly, and effectively. As we look to the future, the role of tactical training in shaping capable, resilient leaders is poised to become increasingly vital, laying the groundwork for stronger communities and a safer world.

Published by: Nelly Chavez

The healthcare industry is transforming in the digital age, leveraging technology to extend its reach and efficacy. Telehealth, the provision of healthcare remotely using telecommunications technology, has emerged as a beacon of hope, especially for marginalized communities often left on the peripheries of the healthcare system. These communities, characterized by limited access to healthcare facilities due to geographical isolation, socioeconomic status, or systemic barriers, stand to gain significantly from the telehealth revolution.

The Challenge of Accessibility

Marginalized communities face myriad challenges in accessing quality healthcare. From rural areas lacking in healthcare infrastructure to urban pockets overshadowed by socioeconomic disparities, the gap in healthcare accessibility is both vast and complex. Traditional healthcare delivery models often fail to address these gaps adequately, leaving significant portions of the population at risk.

The Telehealth Benefit

Telehealth encourages a more equitable healthcare landscape, offering remote consultation, diagnosis, and treatment options. It transcends geographical barriers, bringing specialist care to the doorsteps of those in remote or underserved areas. Moreover, it provides a cost-effective solution for individuals facing financial constraints, eliminating the need for travel and reducing the indirect costs associated with seeking medical care.

Bridging the Gap

Telehealth initiatives tailored for marginalized communities are beginning to bridge the accessibility gap. By employing mobile clinics equipped with telehealth capabilities, healthcare providers can deliver services directly to these communities, ensuring that even the most remote populations have access to specialists and advanced care. These mobile solutions are particularly impactful in areas where healthcare professionals are scarce.

Empowering Patients

Telehealth also empowers patients by giving them greater control over their health management. Digital platforms offer educational resources, enabling individuals to make informed decisions about their health. Furthermore, telemedicine apps facilitate easier follow-ups and chronic disease management, which is essential for improving long-term health outcomes.

The Role of Leadership

The successful implementation of telehealth solutions for marginalized communities requires visionary leadership. Leaders in healthcare and technology must collaborate to create and advocate for policies that support the widespread adoption of telehealth services. They must also work to overcome barriers such as technology access and digital literacy, ensuring that telehealth benefits are truly accessible to all.

Donato Tramuto’s Vision

Donato Tramuto, a seasoned leader in the healthcare sector, exemplifies the type of leadership necessary to drive telehealth solutions forward. Recognized for his dedication to healthcare equity and innovation, Tramuto has consistently advocated for the use of technology to address healthcare disparities. His work emphasizes the importance of empathy in technology, ensuring that telehealth solutions are designed with the needs of marginalized communities in mind.

Overcoming Barriers

Despite its potential, the adoption of telehealth in marginalized communities faces several barriers. Digital literacy and access to reliable internet services are among the most significant challenges. Educational initiatives aimed at improving digital literacy, coupled with investments in infrastructure, are crucial for overcoming these obstacles.

Policy Support

Policy support is another critical factor in the successful deployment of telehealth solutions. Regulatory frameworks must evolve to accommodate telehealth services, addressing issues such as licensing across state lines, reimbursement policies, and data privacy. Advocacy for policy change is an ongoing process requiring continuous engagement from stakeholders across the healthcare ecosystem.

The Future of Telehealth

The future of telehealth in serving marginalized communities looks promising. Innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are set to enhance telehealth platforms, offering more personalized and efficient healthcare services. Wearable technology and remote monitoring devices also present opportunities for proactive health management, enabling earlier intervention and better management of chronic conditions.

Building Resilient Communities

Ultimately, pioneering telehealth solutions aim to build more resilient communities where every individual has access to the healthcare they need. By addressing the unique challenges marginalized populations face, telehealth can play a pivotal role in creating a more equitable and just healthcare system.

Conclusion

Telehealth solutions hold immense potential for transforming healthcare accessibility for marginalized communities. By leveraging technology, these innovative solutions can bridge significant gaps in the healthcare system, ensuring that quality care reaches those who need it most. Leaders like Donato Tramuto are at the forefront of this transformation, advocating for a healthcare future where equity and empathy are at the core. As individuals continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities telehealth presents, its role in fostering a more inclusive healthcare landscape is vital and expanding. The journey towards healthcare equity is long and complex. Still, with pioneering solutions and dedicated leadership, a more accessible and equitable healthcare system is within reach.

Published by: Holy Minoza

Indoor pollutants can contribute to significant issues like trouble breathing, sneezing, and coughing. Unfortunately, these issues can persist even outside of the spring season. How can you reduce your chances of getting attacked by the allergens inside your home? Here are six affordable ways to reduce indoor allergens and keep you breathing better year-round.

1. Clean Air Ducts

Your air ducts are a vital part of your HVAC system and help transport clean, cool air around your home. Because of this, dust, pollen, dander, and pet hair can all easily get clogged inside your air ducts. Give your air ducts the care they deserve and remember to hire professional air duct cleaners to help eliminate these allergens. Cleaning air ducts is an affordable and effective way to prevent polluted air from circulating in your home.

2. Have an HVAC Maintenance Plan

In addition to cleaning your air ducts, it’s important to replace filters, add HEPA filters, and maintain your HVAC system year-round. Consider enrolling in a maintenance plan to save on HVAC maintenance costs. Many HVAC companies offer affordable plans, which take away the hassle of remembering and scheduling your own maintenance.

3. Clean Indoor Bedding

Indoor bedding like duvet covers, comforters, pillowcases, and top sheets can all trap harmful allergens. Clean your indoor bedding at least once a week to help eliminate allergens. Use a professional laundry service or use hot water at 130 degrees or hotter for effectiveness.

4. Create a Mini Mudroom

Allergens from outdoors can easily make their way indoors through clothes and shoes. A way to stop indoor allergens from infiltrating your home is to stop them at the entry of your home. Consider making a mini mudroom near a spare closet, or simply install hangers that can store outdoor clothing. Shoes, jackets, ponchos, and other outerwear can be left at the entrance and washed separately if you suffer from serious allergies.

5. Vacuum Often

Many people don’t realize that vacuuming is crucial for trapping harmful dust and allergens in the home. If you don’t have a vacuum, consider investing in one before the spring season starts. Check to see if your vacuum has an easily replaceable filter and can be emptied easily. When vacuuming, use recommended techniques to trap dust and mites from your carpet. To do so, run your vacuum slowly while pulling it toward you. Make sure you’re using the proper setting on your vacuum, such as for low-pile or high-pile rugs.

6. Invest in De-Shedding for Pets

Nothing is worse than having your cats or dogs shed inside your home during the spring season. Outdoor pollutants can quickly invade your home when transported inside by your lovely pets. If you don’t have a pet already but are considering adopting or buying a cat or dog, consider hypoallergenic breeds such as hairless cats or poodles. If you already have a pet and are struggling with allergies, invest in some de-shedding solutions. Weekly grooming or de-shedding at home using shampoos (approved by your vet) and brushing can go a long way in helping you cuddle with your pets without sniffling and sneezing.

 

Published by: Khy Talara

By: Amanda Reseburg

We live in a world that is increasingly focused on body image and size. Since the introduction of the BMI (body mass index) scale in the 19th century, the medical community has used it as a way not only to simplify the relationship between weight and height but also to determine the “healthiness” of one’s weight.

However, the use of BMI calculations is complicated, and there are limitations to the scale, not to mention controversies surrounding its continued use and efficacy. Yet, with the obesity epidemic in the United States raging, a focus on BMI remains and will likely persevere as one of the primary indicators of healthy weight. 

“We are fighting the obesity epidemic in the United States,” says Sergio Padron, founder of MD Exam. To continue this fight, this may require a more nuanced look at BMI and weight health, allowing the medical community and those within the weight-loss community the information and tools necessary to help people live healthier lives. 

What is BMI?

Simply put, BMI is a measure of one’s body fat based on height and weight that can be calculated by dividing your weight in pounds by height in inches squared and multiplying by a conversion factor of 703. Those with BMIs of 18.5 or less are considered “underweight,” and those with a BMI of 30 or greater are considered “obese,” based on the scale. 

BMI was originally devised to track society’s obesity trends, which was a concern even in the 19th century. The scale gained popularity in the mid-20th century as a way of measuring healthiness and has been largely adopted by the medical community. It is used even today during health checkups along with other metrics such as blood pressure and pulse. 

However, BMI has been criticized for oversimplifying general healthiness. “It doesn’t consider body composition, muscle mass, or genetic factors,” explains Padron. As a result of these shortcomings, the limitations of BMI are starting to be recognized more and more in the medical community.

What influences BMI?

Several factors can influence BMI, and a growing number of people in the medical and weight loss community are calling attention to a more nuanced look at health and weight.

“Increased use of semaglutide medication, such as Wegovy, has increased interest in weight loss and body composition overall,” says Padron. His program considers several factors before starting clients on a weight loss program, including family history and exercise capabilities. 

Body composition plays a significant role in BMI numbers, which is one of the primary concerns, with the scale being used as the only indicator of health. “Individuals with a high muscle mass may come back with a BMI that calls them obese, even though they are healthy and fit,” Padron explains.

Genetic predispositions should also be considered, as some people have a genetic tendency to carry more or less weight, regardless of lifestyle factors. If you have ever met someone who can eat anything and still stay very thin, their BMI may indicate that they are underweight — to an unhealthy degree — regardless of their attempts to load up on calories. In these cases, BMI is not a one-and-done indicator of overall health. 

Age and sex also influence BMI, as older adults tend to have larger BMIs due to hormonal fluctuations, metabolism, and a slowdown in activity. Socioeconomic factors are also in play in BMI disparities, with healthy foods being in short supply in some areas and a lack of access to affordable weight-loss solutions. 

“BMI can be a useful tool to quickly assess one’s health,” says Padron, “but it should be used as one metric, rather than the only metric.”

Beyond BMI

MD Exam has taken a holistic approach to assessing each client’s overall health. “By considering multiple factors beyond simply BMI, we can put clients on the right path towards successful weight management,” says Padron.

Lifestyle habits such as diet, sleep, exercise, and stress management all play a role in one’s overall health and size. Mental and emotional well-being are also factors, emphasizing the importance of caring for one’s emotional needs when one embarks on a weight-loss journey.

“There has to be a comprehensive approach to health assessments,” Padron observes. “It gives us a better understanding of a person’s health and allows us to make informed decisions.”

Tips for healthier living 

If one’s BMI is in the “unhealthy” range, and other factors buoy those results, healthy living options are available. Many of these options are what MD Exam has built their program around. 

“Our game-changing program is built around semaglutide use, which works with your body to allow you to feel less hunger,” Padron explains. “We use these medications as part of a comprehensive approach to achieving a healthier lifestyle.”

Semaglutide is just one option in a healthier-living strategy — one must also focus on mindful eating and a balanced diet. Regular physical activity should be tailored to a person’s individual abilities, needs, and preferences. 

In addition, an understanding that a high BMI is not the be-all and end-all of one’s health level is key. Body positivity and self-compassion play a prominent role in getting healthy and staying healthy. 

BMI has served as a measure of weight health for over 150 years, but as Padron mentions, it is not the only metric available in modern times. By looking beyond BMI and adopting a mindset that many factors contribute to a healthy body, we can celebrate body diversity and help people find the right path toward healthy living for their individual needs.

 

Published By: Aize Perez