Author Archives: Zuzanna Walter

Physical Activity and Mindfulness for Healing

October 8, 2021

Evidence suggests that both physical and mental healing can be promoted in patients by way of physical activity and mindfulness practices which may benefit all aspects of well-being, boost quality of life, and help improve health outcomes. Physical activity and regular exercise routines are more regularly recommended to patients in the healthcare setting, particularly in cases of cardiometabolic disease that could benefit from its effects including decreased cortisol levels and inflammation, strengthened cardiovascular health, and improved weight management. A growing body of knowledge implicates the need for the incorporation of mindfulness practices into the healthcare system due to its potential to benefit prevention, diagnosis, and treatment interventions.

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Addressing Racial Disparities in Sleep Patterns 

September 29, 2021

The detrimental effects of systemic racism are evident across the healthcare system with increasing data signaling the many adverse health outcomes associated with racial disparities in health, patient outcomes, and more. Not only do pervasive racial inequities affect the accessibility of healthcare for disadvantaged groups, but they also predispose certain racial groups to experience health conditions at higher rates. Educational and prevention efforts often do not cater to the most disadvantaged groups; meanwhile, many health issues stem from modifiable lifestyle factors which prove to be rooted in systemic inequity.

One such lifestyle factor and a key component of maintaining overall health is sleep, which is also necessary for improving concentration, preventing depression, and promoting weight management thereby reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Per CDC recommendations, a minimum of 7 hours of sleep per night is considered healthy for adults, however, statistics indicate that many individuals do not get nearly enough sleep on a regular basis – with inequities most evident between racial groups.

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Pain Awareness Month: Innovations in Pain Management and Care

September 24, 2021

September is Pain Awareness Month during which the medical industry aims to raise public awareness of pain, pain management solutions, and the work of pain professionals. Living with pain can be debilitating and negatively affect the quality of life of patients and the people around them. Current statistics estimate that nearly 50 million Americans experience chronic pain. Worsening the burden of chronic pain is an alarming rise in opioid abuse and addiction which has brought a critical focus on non-drug treatment approaches for both acute and chronic pain.

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