Improve your mind, body and spirit.
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With the FDA approval of flibanserin (Addyi) last fall, many have criticized both the FDA as well as supporters saying female sexual medicine is over-medicalized. While from a specific lens, this may ring somewhat true, here’s the problem with this theory. It implies that rather than having a medical issue contributing to sexuality, female sexual issues must be entirely psychological, or perhaps social, or even worse, that they just don’t matter. Conversely, not too many years ago, female sexuality was “all in our heads”. Interesting history fact: Dating back to the 4th and 5th centuries BC, women’s erratic moods and behavior were blamed on the uterus. It was thought that the uterus wandered, and the corresponding medical anomaly was dictated by where the uterus landed. Stemming from ancient Greek culture these women were diagnosed with hysteria (originating from the Greek root hyster meaning womb) and treated with, wait for it…orgasm! The treatment wasn’t called an orgasm however because female orgasm, pleasure, and sexuality were not a recognized phenomenon. “Hysterical paroxysms” – gold standard of treatment. This diagnosis and treatment became an epidemic in the late 19th century. Doctors would not only prescribe, but actually provide orgasms (paroxysms) for women diagnosed with hysteria in the office initially using their hands, and progressing to devices we now lovingly refer to as vibrators. Sexual pleasure was the farthest from the minds of the physicians providing this treatment. This was a medical diagnosis with a medical cure…end of story. In fact, there was so little understanding of female anatomy and biology that the hysteria diagnosis was used commonly for most female physical and emotional ailments. It wasn’t until the 20th century when the notion that women could experience sexual desire or pleasure was even a fleeting thought. Seriously, I promise I’m not making this up!
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It can be hard to convince someone to get involved in a group fitness class. Some people may feel self-conscious exercising in front of others. That's understandable. We live in a culture where we constantly compare ourselves to others, which is not a healthy way of living. But group exercise can really impact your life for the better—even more so than your individual fitness plan. Here are ways group exercise can enhance your fitness routine.
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According to numerous studies, including one performed by the American Journal of Public Health, there is a clear link to the mental and physical health benefits of having a creative outlet. Even if you can't dance to a beat or color in the lines, it's important to find a creative outlet for your own sanity.
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Michigan's state parks and recreation areas are wonderful places to explore! The second annual Michigan Activity Pass program, sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the Michigan Recreation and Park Association (mParks) and The Library Network, allows Michigan library card holders to gain free or discounted access to hundreds of Michigan's state parks, historic sites, cultural attractions, campgrounds and recreation areas.
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People are becoming increasingly aware of and interested in nutritional supplementation and the role it plays in overall health. Nearly 75 percent of the population takes some type of vitamin or supplement each day. There are literally thousands of brands and products to choose from. I want to emphasize: Not all supplements are created equal. This fact can be rather confusing to people who have been told to take CoQ10, fish oil, or vitamin D. You want to take the supplements to get optimal results. Consumers should look for pharmaceutical-grade or professional-grade supplements.
