View - Life Chiropractic College West

LifeLines
Spring 2014
The Unity Issue
My E x pe ri e n c e at L i f e 1 0 1
Ever since I
stepped foot onto
the Life West campus, I have been
hearing about Life
101. “It will change
your life. You have
to go,” is what everyone was saying.
I was intrigued at
first, but was unable to get much
information about
the trip except that
the food was delicious. Once I saw
that Life 101 was
two weeks into my
first quarter and
cost only $200, I
did not give a second thought to going.
I noticed that most of my classmates were planning on going and were
very enthusiastic about it. I did not
know why because they did not know
any more than I did about the event. I
Being
the
During this most recent break in
March, twenty-three delegations of The
World Congress of Chiropractic Students
(WCCS) from all over the world met in
Málaga, Spain over seven days. Throughout
the week, issues such as policy, philosophy, technique, and other items relative
to Chiropractic
education and the
profession were
discussed and
debated.
One of the
main goals of the
WCCS is to celebrate our diversity. As the organization states, “The
purpose of the
World Congress
of Chiropractic
Students is to advance and unite the global
Chiropractic profession through inspiration, integrity and leadership.” After spending a week with 134 other students from all
over the world, I began to see how this is
not just idealism, it’s a reality that has been
long in the making.
Since 1979, WCCS has hosted
annual international meetings. Over the
course of the last thirty-six years, many
LifeLines the Unity Issue
spring
by Brandan Tong
had already decided that I wanted to be
very involved in campus life before I ever
started the program. Going to Life 101
would probably be an important time to
connect with my classmates, staff, and the
school itself. It was then I decided that I
Change: WCCS
topics have been discussed, resolutions have
been labored over, wording has been dissected, and, painstakingly, change has been
created. One of the most significant contributions that WCCS has provided is to lobby the
government of Japan to officially change their
definition of Chiropractic in their dictionary
to one that was agreed upon by the international body of Chiropractic students. The organization has also been integral in communicating the needs of students internationally
to the CCE and its branches in the Americas,
Australasia, and Europe. One of our top directives right now is how to get international
licensure for all Chiropractors that want to
travel and work abroad.
So many times we encounter the
2014
had to attend this
event, but how
would I get the
money?
I had no
more money to
spare after taking out student
loans. I could not
figure out how I
was going to find
the means to pay
for it. The saying
“where there’s a
will, there’s a way”
never became
more important
to me. Then, a
loved one was so
generous as to pay for my ticket to attend
Life 101. I am in a great debt of gratitude
toward this special individual and I will
forever be thankful for the kindness of
that gesture. The experience had proved
continued on pg 6
ta k e s
S pa i n
by Monica Green
clashing of ideals. It seems that one must
either be philosophically based or research
based, that there is no room for both to exist
under the umbrella of Chiropractic. But is
there one truth? With more than three hundred ways to practice our craft, can we be so
exclusive as to try to shut some out? With
only ten percent, if that,
of the population under
care, can we afford to
alienate anyone?
We are constantly
bombarded with propaganda about how this or
that is or is not Chiropractic. We are encouraged to sideline some
techniques, roll our eyes
at some schools, or carry
an expectation that because they learn different things, they are somehow less dedicated,
less accomplished, or less visionary than we
are. But is that really the truth? How can we
have a unified profession when we are so
busy trying to figure out who is right and
who is wrong?
At Congress, it has taken many years
of conversation, openness, and agreeing to
disagree to get to the point where particicontinued on pg 3
The Student Publication of Life Chiropractic College West 1
LIFELINES
Daniel Goodman
Monica Green
Joshua Pollack
Jeff Boyajian
Rich Manley
Fabi Zawalski
Jackie Biron
Editor in Chief
Design Editor
Advertising Manager
Staff Writer
Staff Writer
Photographer
Faculty Advisor
A Letter From The EdiTOR
Abundance of Talent
Most recently, in preparation for
the Chiropractic Has Talent competition
at The Wave this coming August, Life
West held its sectional audition, whittling
POLICIES
LIFELINES is printed twice per quar- down the many contestants to just one
ter and is distributed free-of-charge on the Life representative. Lifelines’ very own Monica
Chiropractic College West campus, and in the Green, along with Aubrey Rivera, took
Health Center.
the prize and will showcase their sultry
sounds to the masses in the hopes of
Mission Statement
Our mission at LifeLines is to remember winning the coveted 15,000-dollar grand
prize.
our purpose in Chiropractic, by informing the
reader on current issues in the field of our
profession, promoting morale and support for
the values of subluxation-based Chiropractic
care, and by encouraging writers to produce
science-based articles that provide clarity and
foundational understanding for empirical
evidence seen during one hundred plus years
of Chiropractic clinical experience.
There was a range of talent that
day. From the musicianship, to the voices,
to the outlying performance, it was difficult to choose who really was “the best.”
After all, how could you compare two
different instruments? The absolute value
of these different acts was telling in that
there could have been a way to validate
anyone for winning the competition. This
is not to speak poorly of any of the acts,
but it is to praise each of them for their
own unique excellence.
As the school sat in seminar, captivated by the range of performances and
their musical expressions, it’s awe inspiring to see different shades of these Chiropractors to be. Too often, we get absorbed
in the Science, Philosophy and Art of this
craft. As all of these phases are essential
to becoming an amazing Chiropractor,
there are a multitude of other characteristics and traits that each individual
possesses that will only accentuate their
skills.
Each Chiropractor is completely
unique. It is many people’s experience to
see that fact as they visit different offices
which cater to that respective Chiropractor. In some offices, shoes are not allowed, whereas in others, there is a more
sterile environment. Some Chiropractors
offer massage or other modalities of healing while others stay straight and only
adjust when needed. With each office we
are able to fill in the colors of what makes
this Chiropractor different from the others, outside of the certificate.
Recently, the CCE has allowed
for the AATP program to be instituted
throughout the Chiropractic schools
across the nation. This allows those with
untraditional, or non-science, backgrounds to jumpstart the DC program.
Such a move has not only improved the
rate of enrollment for some programs,
but has also widened the range for the
types of Chiropractors entering this
profession. By coming from a wide range
of educational and professional histories, the uniqueness and skills of these
individuals are unlike many that typically enter this doctorate program within
healthcare.
They can provide much greater purpose
both for expression and care. For example,
a music-savvy Chiropractor will likely
have choice tunes playing throughout the
office, providing a more poignant experience for the patient. One experienced in
music, whether it be voice or dance, may
have an inclination to suggest ways of relieving stress outside of the adjustment, as
with internal expression.
On the other hand, there are many
talents that are outside the scope of what
would have been plausible for the Chiropractic Has Talent competition. Many of
our students here at Life West are gifted
athletes, some even have played at the
highest collegiate or professional level. For
them, they might be more prone to understanding the subtle microtrauma that
can be adapted from years of sport. Additionally, for a certain demographic, their
ability for connection could be at a deeper
level because of such common interests
and abilities.
Then there are the unquantifiable
talents, like empathy or communication.
Those who are versed in a multitude of
languages will then in turn have the ability
to reach more people effectively by sharing
the principle of what we do as inherently
as we can have the potential to share in
our native tongue. An empathic person
could use that gift as a way of making the
patient feel truly loved and cared for, before applying that adjustic force.
Yes, the talents we all possess are
relative and precious. One is not better or
more advantageous, but rather provides
a different point of view and a perspective that may be better served through its
respective audience. There are too many
people without care out there to try and
uniformly reach the masses. Instead, the
strategy to let each person have their own
patients, with ones who sync with such
similarities or talents, is a good way to
reach more people.
So while we all study for our exams,
work tirelessly on our adjusting drills, and
hone in on our philosophy, let us not lose
sight of what makes us stand out as individuals, for it is these very traits that will
illuminate our ability to serve at the highest level as Chiropractors.
These talents serve more than just
entertainment for annual competitions.
2
LifeLines the Unity Issue
spring
2014
Why should we care about Politics?
How would you feel if you were
abruptly informed that all of your chiropractic
rights had been taken away? I would be livid
if I was told that I would not be able to practice! Why? Not only do students spend approximately $200,000 and dedicate 3.5 years to
learn the philosophy, art,
and science of chiropractic, but we KNOW the
TRUTH. There are sick
people in the world and we
were called into this profession to help them get
WELL. We often use the
words “PROTECT” and
“PREVENT” to describe
the importance of detecting and correcting a subluxation. The spine houses
and protects our spinal
cord and Chiropractic can
help prevent dis-ease by
strengthening our nervous and immune system. Don’t you think it is important for us to
PROTECT our profession in order to PREVENT us from losing our right to practice?
On March 25th, Dr. Phil Dieter and
seven Life West students spent a day of their
spring break in Sacramento for Legislative
Conference. Upon arrival, we were given an
information packet and assembled into a room
with approximately 100 DCs and students.
The following 2014 Legislation Issues were
discussed: AB 2015 (Chau) Affordable Care
Act; AB 2143 (Williams); SCR 86 (Hueso);
Workers’ Compensation. The significance of
each of the issues was highlighted in order to
prepare us for our meeting with Senators and
Assemblymen. We were exposed to an entertaining Mock Lobbying Role Play with Assem-
bly Member Brian Jones which incorporated
the “Do’s & Don’ts” for effective lobbying.
A Special Student Briefing Intensive was also
provided this year which allowed students to
meet with LeOndra Clark, a member of the
Senate Business and Professions and Econom-
WCCS continued...
phy of principled Chiropractic, how can we
just write them off and say there’s no room
for you here?
One evening of Congress was dedicated purely to Philosophy. It was a safe
place for students to discuss what they cover
in their curriculum. Some students had no
idea that there were principles, let alone
pants can have conversations without fear
of judgment or being ostracized. Even the
speakers that visit and drop pearls of wisdom can sometimes perpetuate this cycle of
who is and is not Chiropractic. Even when
the intention is to say something humorous,
the perception of such an off-colored comment can have a profound effect on the
audience receiving it.
One such incident happened
during this most recent WCCS Annual
General Meeting. The speaker was discussing a pelvic listing and said, “PI Ilium
if you speak Chiropractic, flexion extension if you don’t,” when referring to it.
This statement left our delegation feeling
like we, as participants of a new generation of Chiropractic, were responsible
for acknowledging that this was a living
contradiction of what we stand for in our
intention to unify Chiropractic. We were
sure to express to the rest of Congress that
we do not condone such behavior.
Taking a stand like that, by addressing a room of people that might not
even have perceived the same offense, only
supports the mission and essence of what
WCCS is for. We are here to celebrate Chiropractic, all of it, in all of its glory and
art, science and philosophy. If someone is
dedicating their life to the betterment of
humanity, how can that be bad or wrong? If
someone is lacking exposure to the philoso-
LifeLines the Unity Issue
spring
ic Development Committee, in order to understand lobbying from the inside out.
Later in the evening, each student was
paired with a DC to attend scheduled appointments with Assembly Members and Senators
to discuss the four Legislation Issues that were
covered during the presentation. This was an
incredible opportunity to express our concern
regarding how these bills could have a major
impact on our profession and our patients.
I never truly understood the importance of lobbying until Legislative Conference!
It is impossible for senators and assembly
members to know specifics about EVERY bill
because they are constantly bombarded with
concerns from thousands of citizens. This is
why it is important to establish a strong relationship with these politicians. If they under-
By Charlene Ponderoso
stand who we are, what we do, and how these
decisions can affect our patients, we can have
a huge influence on their judgment to pass or
refuse a bill.
As President of the Student California
Chiropractic Association, my goal is to encourage every student to get
involved in a political organization on campus. All
of the CCA doctors have
dedicated time, money,
and energy to protect and
promote chiropractic so
that we have the opportunity to help our future
patients. Who will be left
to defend our profession
when the current generation of chiropractors pass
away? That’s right. We
will. It is time for us to become leaders in our profession by standing up
for our chiropractic rights.
I would like to thank Dr. Phil Dieter,
Jennifer Rathbun, Tyler Meier, Kenya Hodges,
Dan Ceballos, Arash Fatemi, and Alicia Alvarenga for volunteering their time at Legislative
Conference with me. We hope to see more students and professors at the event in 2015!
If you would like
to learn more about Legislative Conference and the
bills that were discussed
that day, you can visit
https://votervoice.net/
CCAACTION/Home to
learn about Key Legislation and help take action
today!
other in the healthcare field.
It may have taken thirty-six years
for us to get here, but we have arrived. As
the stewards of our profession, we must be
the change, and we must stand for what is
acceptable. Let us cast off this mantle of
dissent and embrace with both arms those
that are shoulder to shoulder with us, helping people live a life they love with the
freedom of full self-expression. Whatever
other Chiropractic students may be lacking
in philosophy, consider that we are missing
something equivocally in research. Whatever they aren’t exposed to technique-wise,
consider we are equally unaware about
something, too.
We have such a broad range of
knowledge and expertise, it is time we
utilize it for the gain of all people, both
doctors and patients. Is it not the point to
be helping anyway? And if we ever want
Chiropractic to have the global clout that
thirty three of them. Some had never heard
we all long for so badly, then we have to be
of the green books or were aware of the exwilling to sit at the table with everyone else,
tensive record of our history. They shared all without throwing food or pointing fingers.
of this in an environment that was safe and
Gerry Clum always says, “If you’re not at the
nurturing. In turn, instead of being on edge table, you’re on the menu.” WCCS serves as
defending their current scope, their interest this table to establish continuity and progwas piqued. They asked questions. They were ress throughout our education and profeshungry to know more, to fill their heads
sion. Let’s make sure there’s a
with the stories of our founding fathers, and seat for everyone, so all that’s
to familiarize themselves with the pioneerbeing served is a hearty helping words that make us so different than any ing of TIC for humanity.
2014
3
U p g r a d e yo u r L i f e We s t E x p e r i e n c e
You put WHAT in your coffee?!
This is the question most other students ask when I tell them about Bulletproof
Coffee. If you stop into the student lounge
in the mornings or 9:20 breaks, chances are
you will see some of Life West’s top dogs
like Drew Vercellino and Lance Von Stade
brewing up a cup of awesomeness. Their arsenal includes a bean grinder, French press,
hand blender, Upgraded Coffee Beans,
MCT (medium chain triglycerides) oil, and
grass-fed butter. Could this very well be the
stellar energy source that fuels these titans?
Is this their secret recipe that allows them to
optimize their ability to outperform those
who dare challenge them? Is this a cloning
formula that allows Lance to seemingly be
in five different places at once (WCCS member, Foundation Training leader, athletic
trainer, student, and intern)? To answer
these questions, let’s dive into what BulletProof (BP) Coffee is, how it works, and how
it can benefit you as a student.
What is Bulletproof Coffee?
Simply put, Bulletproof Coffee is a
way to prepare coffee. Based on an ancient
yak-butter tea recipe used by Tibetans dur-
ing cold, harsh periods of food scarcity in
the Himalayas, BP Coffee was developed
by self-proclaimed biohacker Dave Asprey,
aka The Bulletproof Executive. Asprey is a
former Silicon Valley CEO/software developer turned nutritional life-coach after years
of self-research. He designed BP Coffee as a
replacement for breakfast in order to extend
the body’s overnight fat-burning fast, while
simultaneously supplying the brain and body
with a dense source of energy, mainly in the
form of fats. How is this possible, you ask?
Let’s go down the biochemistry rabbit hole.
Warning! Biochemistry ahead: if you just
had a sympathetic response and flashbacks
of Dale Johnson’s class, skip the next paragraph and forward to the recipe.
As previously mentioned, skipping
carbohydrates at breakfast allows your body
to remain in a “fat-burning” fasted state
(check out Paul Ofili’s article on intermittent fasting on page 7). Adding MCT oil and
grass-fed butter to coffee further encourages
the body to use these fats immediately for
fuel instead of storing them. Again, in the
absence of carbs, the body will look for other
sources of fuel, mainly dietary fats, stored
by Matt Mutch
body fats, and ketones (this idea is similar to
ketogenic dieting for weight loss).
Consuming only fats with no carbohydrates keeps blood glucose and insulin
from surging and crashing. This continues the body’s overnight fast, which has
switched from utilizing glucose for fuel to
fatty acids and ketones. Not only does the
brain benefit from using ketones as racing
fuel, it allows the other organ systems a rest
period from carbohydrate metabolism (constantly metabolizing carbs leads to depletion
of B vitamins). Since carb intake stays low,
we are not exposing our tissues to glucose
for prolonged periods, which decreases the
formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs). Also, in this “fasted” state, our
cells are signaled to perform autophagy or
mitophagy which is the cell’s way of taking
out the garbage. During this process, protein fractions and miscellaneous molecules
in the cytosol are gobbled up, clearing cellular debris.
End of biochem section.
Relax and breathe.
You may be asking, “How does this
...continued on page 6
A n O d e t o H i s t o ry & P h i l o s o p h y
Let us take a trip down memory lane
for a moment and recap where we came
from in order to know where we are going.
It all started in 1895 when a man delivered the first Chiropractic adjustic thrust
in an attempt to reduce a lump in a deaf
man’s neck. As a result of three crude forces
over a few days time, the deaf man could
once again HEAR. This was the discovery
of CHIROPRACTIC.
This new discovery led to the development of the profession in the aspects of
the Philosophy, Science and Art of things
natural. Over the next several decades, pioneers worked tirelessly to develop, defend
and even die for this newly-founded profession in an attempt to remain separate and
distinct from the practices of medicine,
whose attempts were to treat disease rather
than adjust the cause.
These Chiropractic pioneers went to
jail under accusations of practicing medicine without a license. The first such legal
case, Morikubo vs Wisconsin, became a
landmark event in the Chiropractic political
landscape. Morikubo was a Japanese-American who graduated from the PSC in 1906.
“The indictment of the La Crosse
Chiropractor stated “Shegataru Morikubo
was being charged with violating the law by
endeavoring to practice medicine and surgery and osteopathy all of which were regulated by the State Board of Medical Examiners and that the defendant held himself out
as a physician, surgeon, and osteopath and
used the title ‘doctor’ in front of his name.”
In his defense were BJ Palmer and Attorney
4
by Nick Verner
Tom Morris. He was acquitted based on
philosophical differences which maintained
that the “unseen power” in the body, not
the blood, as the osteopath and M.D. maintained, was what separated Chiropractic
from the others.” [1]
This “unseen power” of the body
is known in Chiropractic as Innate Intelligence. The function of this Intelligence is
to adapt Universal forces and matter for use
in the body, so that all parts of the body will
have a coordinate action for mutual benefit.
[2] Chiropractic is about the transmission
and expression of mental impulses created
by Innate Intelligence through matter. It is
concerned with the cause of dis-ease and not
its effects.
BJ Palmer and Attorney Morris went
on to defend some 3,300 legal cases against
Chiropractors for many reasons over the
next several decades. If the defendant or the
defense were to abandon the Chiropractic
Principles and say “I don’t believe in philosophy” or “I just need to get my hands on
as many people as possible,” Morikubo and
many others would have been found guilty
as charged.
We all have a story as to why we are
here today. Some of you may have family
members who are Chiropractors. Others
may have experienced improvements as a result of correcting subluxation and restoring
function. Some of you may have never been
checked by a Chiropractor and now find
yourself at Chiropractic school because it is
an “up and coming” profession. Regardless
of how we all came to Chiropractic College,
it is imperative to remain humble, dig deep,
and get rooted in the PHILOSOPHY before
you take the next step into the SCIENCE
and its application through the ART. Understand WHY, WHERE and WHEN, and then
HOW. We have been given a sacred trust
and I plan on guarding it well. Are you with
me?
[1] Refined By Fire, The Evolution of
Straight Chiropractic, Strauss pgs. 118-121
[2] The Chiropractic Textbook, R.W. Stephenson, Principle 23, pg. xxxii
Because of their efforts long ago,
defending themselves in court in the state
of Wisconsin, we have been afforded the
opportunity to be here, today, at Life West
pursuing a career in Chiropractic. This case
is just one of countless occasions when Chiropractors spent time away from their families, were jailed, ridiculed and even called
“quacks.” Remember, people dedicated, some
even sacrificed, their lives to this stuff.
LifeLines the Unity Issue
spring
2014
A d j u s t i n g Ta b l e C o m pa r i s o n
If you are looking to get the biggest
bang for your buck, check out the Tony’s
table. The Tony’s base model comes in at the
lowest price and includes the most unique
features at no additional cost. If you want a
lightweight table with plenty of add-on options, take a look at the Astra-Lite, but keep
in mind that these options come at a higher
price. Lloyd offers
a middle-of-theroad table: fairly
lightweight, some
unique features,
and comes at lower cost. Depending
on specific needs,
you may want to
choose a table
based on the following options.
If you
are looking for a
table with adjustable legs to vary
height, check out
the Astra-Lite or Lloyd. Whereas all three
tables offer similar dimensional options
as far as length and width, Astra-Lite and
Lloyd tables include adjustable legs for customized height; for the Tony’s table, adjustable legs come at an additional cost.
If you want a super lightweight
table, try the Astra-Lite. The Astra-Lite
offers the lightest option, weighing in at a
minimum of 16 lbs, though the Lloyd comes
in at a close second at 19 lbs. Tony’s is by far
the heaviest of the three at 32 lbs.
If maximum weight limit is impor-
tant, Tony’s is a good option. The Lloyd table
did not have specifications on weight limit
but the Tony’s can hold up to 500 lbs max
whereas the Astra-Lite maxes out at 400 lbs.
If you are seeking unique features
included in cost, take a look at Tony’s.
Astra-Lite and Tony’s tables both come with
adjustable headpieces unlike the Lloyd table,
Chiropractic is the best for interrupting that stress response. We adjust:
mechanoreceptor influence goes up to the
contralateral cortex and interrupts the
stress cascade in the ipsilateral body. Chiropractic adjustments feel GOOD! What I
notice is a fair amount of my stressed-out
patients see me with a chronic posterior
inferior innominate as an aspect in their
patterns of subluxation. I adjust the PI
over and over, and over, and it persistently
returns.
I am curious, why this same pattern? What is the cause? A good start to
resolving this issue is to re-question my
patient about activities of daily living, work
and sporting activities. I check for excessive shoe wear. I ask about the possibility
of sticky relationship issues. I ask about
exercise. I ask about diet. Here is why:
One of the giants in our profession,
George Goodheart DC, found through
a lifetime of practice that chronic PI innominate subluxations are related to stress.
Interestingly, this correlates to Hans Selye
MD’s model of stress and how it affects the
body. When folks have difficulty adapting
to stress, the result is often a PI innominate.
Here is my proposal: adjust the PI, then
help our patient prevent reoccurrence with
counsel on diet and nutritional supplementation.
You could refer to a nutritionist, who
will most likely recommend cheap fractionated petrochemical vitamins manufactured
from petroleum byproducts. These products
constitute most supplements on the market
today. The fractionated chemicals actually
cause increased internal stress within the
body. For example, any amount of megadosed ascorbic acid will be out of the body
within 24 hours. Maybe the body does not
appreciate being bombarded with funky
single spectrum stuff? Free market capitalism, advertising, and the unaware consumers are messing with our patient’s well being.
If we do not speak up, who will?
Chiropractors are in the best position to share the big picture. We understand
how Innate Intelligence works with whole
food; you know, the kind of foods you find
on the edges of the grocery store and your
local farmers market. After the adjustment,
my main focus is to educate patients to utilize whole food and whole food supplements
to build up and balance the body within
normal function of optimal well-being.
Whole food has an energy factor with specific lines of drive for specific organs. Whole
food facilitates tissue and organ function
and assimilation for better balance.
Many adrenal glands are overworked
to cope with this current work hard, play
harder paradigm that so many of us work
which only allows tilting of the headrest.
Lloyd and Tony’s tables offer ankle rests;
Astra-Lite does not.
If you want maximum add-on
abilities, explore the Astra-Lite, but keep in
mind these options come at an additional
cost. Astra-Lite offers the broadest array of
add-ons, including, but not limited to, arm
rest attachments, an ankle rest, vinyl cover,
and nylon travel case. Lloyd offers a paper
attachment, drop headpieces, an extremity
drop piece, a face paper attachment, and zipper cover. Tony’s is limited to adjustable legs
by Laura Davis
and a carrying case.
If you want the best warranty,
look into Astra-Lite, but read the fine print.
All three tables include a warranty against
defective materials/workmanship. Astra-Lite
includes a 5-year warranty with a 30-day
return policy excluding shipping. Lloyd
includes a 3-year
warranty. Tony’s
includes a 1-year
warranty with an
optional 5-year
extended warranty
and shipping insurance at additional
costs.
If you are
concerned with
price, check out
Tony’s. Prices vary
based on table
model, add-ons, and
specials. The Tony’s
table comes in at
$349-$448; however, unlike Astra-Lite and
Lloyd, Tony’s also offers a $30 discount to
students. Lloyd comes in second at a cost of
$430-$585. Astra-Lite is between $475 and
$515.
Want more
info? This and additional
information regarding table
specifications and ordering
details is available on the
company websites: AstraLite at astra-lite.com, Lloyd
at lloydtable.com, and Tony’s
at tonystables.com.
Stressed Desserts
LifeLines the Unity Issue
spring
2014
by Greg Mack
and live by today. My goal is to stabilize the
patients so they hold their adjustments. I
agree with Dr. Goodheart in that when we
adjust and support the viscera with specific
whole food supplementation, innate stabilizes the chronic PI innominate and prevents
common recurrence. The patient is happy,
happy patients refer, and society gets a bit
better.
Most subluxations are not a result of
traumatic injury. They tend to creep in and
show up creating further patterns of global
dysfunction. Dan Murphy DC mentioned
in his spinal rehabilitation class in the fall of
2013 that “When you get a stiff spine visceral
pathology and old age happen sooner.” I adjust first and foremost. I educate about how
to think right, move right, and eat right with
whole food nutrition to treat the whole person. From a state of balance, every patient is
best able to evolve within and adapt to daily
stresses. Hopefully, when I communicate
to the best of my ability, patients will leave
empowered and
help make
our world
a better
place.
5
Bulletproof Coffee continued...
relate to me as a Chiropractic student?”
Here are some potential benefits from drinking BP Coffee:
Greater ability to pay attention in
class – while some classes may be a time to
catch up on sleep for some students, being well fueled will keep your brain able to
focus.
Steady energy all morning – because
BP Coffee marries caffeine and fats, the
result is a slow and steady release of caffeine
throughout the morning without crashing.
Time saver – It takes all of six minutes to
prepare this nectar of the gods. That’s 6
more minutes to hug people in Sid Square
before class. See, coffee does equal love.
Weight management and insulin
control – less carbs equals less insulin equals
less storage of fat. Boom. USDA, you just
got owned.
Gastrointestinal health - Grassfed butter contains healthy amounts of
fat soluble vitamins A,D,E, and K2. K2 is
protective against atherosclerosis and heart
disease. It has a higher ratio of Omega 3 to
6 than grain-fed butter, and contains conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which can help
protect against cancer. Additionally, butter
has butyrate, which inhibits gut permeability
and is anti-inflammatory by inhibiting NFkappa Beta.
Recipe:
12oz (400mL) water (or more if you
prefer more dilute coffee)
3 tbsp of coffee beans
2 tbsp of grass-fed butter
2 tbsp of MCT oil (start with ½ tbsp and
work up to 2 tbsp if you are not used to
hearty servings of fat)
Brew coffee in French press as you normally
would.
Blend ingredients for 20-60 sec or until a
nice frothy head of foam forms
FAQ
• Where do I buy ingredients?
You can purchase most of the ingredients
at www.upgradedself.com including Dave
Asprey’s proprietary Upgraded Coffee Beans.
These beans are lab-tested for mold and mycotoxins which are prevalent in most other
coffee beans. MCT oil is available at most
supplement or health-food stores. Unsalted
grass-fed butter can be purchased at many
healthy stores and markets.
• Can I add other ingredients to my BP
Coffee?
Do whatever you like, but be forewarned. If
you add too many sweeteners, you are signaling your body to release insulin, therefore
defeating a major benefit of fasting with BP
Coffee.
• Will all that fat give me heart disease?
The outdated thinking that cholesterol
causes heart disease has never been scientifically proven. It is not that easily described
and is a lengthy discussion. If I were to attempt to explain it here, it would make this
edition of Lifelines a textbook.
• I’ve heard the coffee is bad for you. Why
is BP Coffee considered a healthy alternative to breakfast?
Coffee itself is not evil – caffeine addiction
is. Many Americans today don’t drink coffee, they abuse it. Many use it just to function through the day. This is the major reason coffee is blamed as the culprit for health
problems. Google coffee and anti-oxidants
(i.e. phenols) to see what the research really
says.
• Is there anyone who should not drink
BP Coffee?
It depends on the individual. The most
important factor to consider is stress and
cortisol levels. If you suffer from adrenal
fatigue and burnout, fasting is probably not
your cup of tea (or coffee in this case).
• How do I become more like Lance?
Simple. Join every club, be everywhere all at
once, wear nice
suits, and drink
Bulletproof Coffee while you do
it.
I have no
affiliation with
BP or Upgraded
Self products.
Some Spanish Terms brought to you by the
Club de Quiropráctica
Spine : Espina Bone : Hueso
Back : Espalda Alignment : Alineación
Neck : Cuello Subluxation : Subluxación
Life101 continued...
to be much more valuable.
I now had what I needed for Life
101 and I was so excited to be going
with my classmates. I went to turn in my
paperwork for Life 101 and Mama Jackie
tells me that the school already subsidizes
$300 per student to go. I was surprised
at how much the school invested in this
event. The day finally came for us to go
on our journey. I was told to have no
expectations. That is hard to do when
everyone was saying how much fun I will
have and how much they loved it.
Brian Kelly (not Doctor Kelly or
President on this trip) started the whole
thing off by getting our attitude in the
right mindset for this trip. We set our
goals for what we wanted to see and what
we did not want to see happen over the
weekend. I got on the bus as excited as
ever. By the time we got there, I could
not wait to get off. I am not one for long
drives, especially since I can often get motion sickness when I am not driving.
I was surprised to learn that we
6
got to stay in cabins. For only having to
pay $200, I expected to sleep in tents. Life
West really knows how to treat their future chiropractors. Our activities over the
next couple days tested our resolve, teamwork, and ability to think critically about
our futures as chiropractors. It was both
emotional and encouraging. There was
some definite bonding going on between
us all. We also got to listen to some very
inspirational speakers that helped me create a vision and plan for my chiropractic
future.
The food during the weekend was
spectacular. It was made by our Life West
family and volunteers. The food was the
best, healthiest food I had ever eaten and
we got to experience it in a completely
unique way. I was really sad that the weekend could not last forever.
I apologize for the vagueness of
our events and activities but Life 101 is
something that you have to truly experience for yourself. It will make you want
to become more than you thought you
could be. Since I have been back, I have
joined Student Council, Christian Chiropractic Club, gained many new friends,
and have made significant plans toward
my future practice. My message to you
is that Life 101 is an experience that you
do not want to miss before you graduate.
No matter what quarter you are in and
whether you think you cannot go due to
lack of resources, “where there’s a will
there’s a way.” I hope to see you at the
next Life 101, because I fully plan to help
volunteer at the next one. Cheers.
LifeLines the Unity Issue
spring
2014
LifeLines
The Community Page
from
L i f e C h i r o p r a ct i c C o ll e g e W e s t
Spring 2014
I n t e r m i t t e n t Fa s t i n g f o r t h e M i n d , B o d y, & S o u l
“To lengthen thy Life, lessen thy
meals.” ~ Benjamin Franklin
When we hear the word “fast” we
immediately tend to think “starvation”. I
used to think that way, too, until I started to
dig deeper and understand more about how
the body works and how survival skills were
during the Paleolithic days. When it comes
to hunger, most of us are mindless slaves to
the clock, eating at specific times, eating all
day long, or constantly worrying about what
our next meal will be. The moment we sense
boredom, we become hungry; the moment
we sense stress, we become
hungry; the moment we smell
food, we become hungry.
When your stomach speaks to
you, do you ever stop and wonder if you are indeed hungry or
just having a craving? I never
thought that fasting could
bring back the power of selfcontrol over hunger and bring
such a great sense of freedom
within the mind.
I first started intermittent fasting to take part in a
new experience, but I had no
idea it would be an experience that would change my
life forever. For my whole life
I was told to eat whenever I was hungry.
But, through the process of doing this, food
started to control my life even when I wasn’t
hungry. Whenever I was stressed out the
night before an exam or a basketball game,
I would be shoveling down as much food
as possible – not because I was hungry, but
because I was worried, and eating was comforting. I felt controlled by the idea of eating
for comfort and couldn’t actually tell when I
really needed to eat. I felt that I lost the appreciation for food because it was always at
my disposal.
by Paul Ofili
The first few days when I started
fasting I saw the instant positive change
in my mood and outlook on life, but felt
sympathetically dominated in my nervous
system due to the major ramp up of my
fight or flight response. And worst of all, all
I could think about was FOOD. However, I
felt my body start to shift to something I had
been looking for, clarity. During those first
days, I realized how big the task was that
was in front of me. I realized that I did not
have much self-control over my thoughts.
As I was sitting in my first period
class that day, I was losing my mind
thinking about chocolate because
normally, I would be munching
down on some chocolate covered
almonds just for some form of satisfaction to make it through the class.
Those first few days of fasting exemplified a typical response
of the physiological changes that
take place. The body starts normalizing ghrelin levels, also known as
“the hunger hormone”. This effect
regulates insulin sensitivity, which
is key for optimal health as insulin
resistance is a primary contributing
factor to nearly all chronic disease,
Continued on page 9
A L anguage of L ife
What is it that keeps people separate? Is it our differences or
our inability to see our similarities?
The developer and author of Nonviolent Communication
(NVC), Dr. Marshall Rosenberg, describes the 8000-year-old descent into a ‘domination culture’ as an evolution of our minds being
trapped into a life-alienating language. This consciousness naturally
accompanies such a system of good or bad, right or wrong, blame or
shame, punishment or reward and so on.
Long ago, the king or emperor was right and all-knowing.
The peasants had to agree with this power in order to survive.
Today, we use analyzing, moralizing, criticizing, and judgements to
keep each other toeing the party line. This process has people feeling
more and more mistrustful, impatient, angry, sad, confused, lonely,
anxious, in a lot of pain, and yearning for something more.
This type of history seems to have created an evolutionary
snag in our growth, learning, and ability to be self-referential. We
tend to track outside of ourselves for our general sense of self and
worthiness. If we are not centered in ourselves, then who or what
are we centered in.
An example of this is when someone asks their doctor, “How
do I feel?”. With the process of NVC, that is exactly where we begin.
The intention is to have the person possess the ability to know what
they’re feeling in any moment. What we often do is confuse our feelings with our thoughts. Someone may say something like “I feel like
you’re not listening to me.” They use the word feel, but then follow
it with an analysis of the other person’s behavior. In turn, we dumb
down the word ‘feel’ and our ability to connect to what is real and
alive in ourselves. Inevitably, we begin to rely on our thoughts as if
they are true or accurate at all times.
NVC in Chiropractic
LifeLines the Unity Issue
spring
2014
by Dan Lynch
In a profession like Chiropractic where care can benefit
so many people, I think the skill set offered with an NVC practice
would be hugely beneficial. Our language and presence sets up a
foundation before we even lay our hands on our patients. So what
kind of presence are we beginning these relationships with?
As Dr. Terrie Lewine said at seminar, “What I discovered
after years of practice and being frustrated in my role as doctor
was that I forgot that there were two human beings involved in this
relationship.” In Dr. Rosenberg’s book, he describes how he started
revealing his own feelings and needs with his patients. This practice
helped his patients then be more vulnerable and honest with him in
return. When we are looked at as knowledgeable we can often forget
our own humanity, beyond our titles and degrees.
Need vs Strategy
All human beings share the same universal needs. Dr.
Rosenberg asserts that everything we ever do is an attempt (or strategy) to meet one or more of those needs.
Screaming at somebody? Need; possibly for connection, self-expression, attention, or strength.
• Never talking to someone again? Need; maybe healing, selfrespect, or clarity.
• Meditating under a tree for five years? Need; challenge, transcendence, peace, or autonomy.
• Having back pain? Need; support, rest, well-being, empathy/to
be seen & heard.
• Practicing medicine, or chiropractic? I think you get the point.
The question then lies, are our strategies actually fulfilling
us and are we aware of what need we’re attempting to meet in the
first place? From what I see and hear, we are mostly not aware of the
Continued on page 10
7
LIFELINES
Danny Goodman
Monica Green
Joshua Pollack
Jeff Boyajian
Rich Manley
Fabi Zawalski
Jackie Biron
Editor
Design Editor
Ad Manager
Writer
Writer
Photographer
Faculty Advisor
POLICIES
LIFELINES Community Page is
printed twice per quarter and is distributed
free-of-charge on the Life Chiropractic College
West campus & Health Center and around the
Hayward area.
LIFELINES is the official student
newspaper of Life West and is funded by the
Student Body through the Student Council.
Any submissions, advertisements or
articles published herein do not necessarily
reflect the opinions or beliefs of LIFELINES
or LCCW.
Advertisements
LIFELINES shall not be liable for any error
in published advertising unless an advertising proof is clearly marked for corrections by
the advertiser. If the error is not corrected by
LIFELINES,its liability, if any, shall not exceed the value of the space occupied by the
advertisement. LIFELINES shall not be
liable for any omission of an advertisement
ordered, but will print it in the next issue. All
claims for adjustments must be made within
30 days of the date of publication. In no case
shall LIFELINES be liable for any general,
special or consequential damages.
email [email protected] for rates and
availability
Have you more faith
in a spoonful of
medicine than in the
power that animates
the living world?
Life Chiropractic Health Center
Main Entrance located at:
25001 Industrial Blvd
Hayward, CA 94545
Life West Health Center
Progressively Living Well
Chiropractors use their understanding and expertise of the body and brain
connection to assist your body to heal itself – without drugs or surgery. Chiropractic
emphasizes wellness, and helps patients achieve and maintain a higher level of health.
People from all walks of life, including athletes like football great Jerry Rice, utilize
chiropractic care to help them perform at their very best.
Doctors of chiropractic are specialists in evaluating the spine for dysfunctional
areas called subluxations. These areas of altered spinal motion or misalignment can
interfere with normal nerve function and overall health. Subluxations are corrected
using gentle and precise chiropractic adjustments. The Health Center at Life
Chiropractic College West offers a variety of adjustive techniques, including low-force
methods. Techniques are chosen after carefully considering each patient’s individual
needs or preferences. Leading-edge diagnostic equipment, including thermography
and advanced x-ray imaging, is available on-site at the Health Center.
Health Care is changing, and so are your expectations. The chiropractic
professionals at the Health Center are dedicated to creating a caring and healing
environment where traditional methods and modern research come together.
Highly accomplished chiropractic clinical faculty and well trained interns understand
your needs and are excited to bring you closer to wellness. This results in a highly
informative and integrative patient care experience.
Since 1981, the Life West Health Center has been the Bay Area’s premier
chiropractic teaching and patient care facility. We are conveniently located in western
Hayward near Interstate880 and Highway 92. The Health Center provides quality,
affordable chiropractic care. Give us a call at 510-780-4567 or visit us at 25001
Industrial Blvd. in Hayward to set up an appointment. We will assign you an intern
who will answer your questions and make an appointment for your first visit.
-B.J. Palmer,
forefather of Chiropractic
8
LifeLines the Unity Issue
spring
2014
S
ubluxation is the phenomena where communication between the brain and body is affected by a misaligned
vertebra in the spine. As Chiropractors, we are trained to scientifically detect and specifically remove
these subluxations to enable the full expression of life.
Intermittent Fasting continued...
reducing inflammation and lessening free radical damage.
Spiritually, fasting was beginning to bring back the power
of self-control. I believe that our thoughts control our physiology.
Once my thoughts started shifting my consciousness and I felt more
comfortable with the process, fasting became a lot easier and more
enjoyable.
There are many ways to dive into intermittent fasting from
the Martin Berkhan Method, Eat Stop Eat, Feed and Fast, or The
Warrior Fasting. Personally, I stick to the Martin Berkhan Method, also known as the 16:8 method. 16:8 means that for 16 hours
throughout the day (including sleep) you are fasting – not eating or
drinking anything besides water – and the other 8 hours of the day
is your eating window. Typically, you will eat a paleo diet during
your eating time where your concern is with keeping your carbohydrate consumption under 120 grams rather than worrying about
ridiculous calorie counting.
During the 16-hour fasting time, there are two major processes that are going on in the body, giving you the huge benefits
of fasting. The first major process is called autophagy. During this
process, organelles called lysosomes break down waste products
inside the cells. Autophagy ramps up in response to fasting. Liver
glycogen stores become depleted around 12-16 hours into a fast, and
it follows that autophagy would accelerate soon after. Autophagy is
looked at as the “housecleaning” method, getting rid of all the damaged cells. It protects against neurodegeneration, viral and bacterial
infections, and cancer, keeping the brain as sharp as possible.
Another huge benefit is a spike in growth hormone (HGH).
Intermittent fasting for periods ranging from 12-24 hours along
with high intensity exercise has a positive effect on boosting HGH.
HGH enhances the cellular repair processes that allow us to age
with grace. It regulates metabolism to burn fat, build muscle, and
slow down the negative effects of stress. These two benefits alone far
outweighs the negatives that people perceive comes from fasting.
While practicing intermittent fasting, breakfast aka (Breaking- Fast) is moved to around lunch time. This is because you want
your night fast (from sleeping) to ride out into the day to recoup
the benefits. One of the main questions people ask is, “How can you
skip breakfast if it’s supposed to be one of the most important meals
of the day?” Dr. John M. Berardi, Phd, who is the founder of Precision Nutrition, the world’s largest online nutrition coaching company, says eating breakfast is optional, and slams the often-stated
diet mantra that skipping meals slows metabolism. If anything,
occasionally skipping meals and practicing intermittent fasting can
improve metabolism by helping with blood-sugar management,
appetite control, weight loss, and increased cell repair. Dr. John
Berardi says, “The amount of calories you’re taking in and your
macro count — proteins, carbs, and fats — are really what impact
metabolism.” Therefore, moving Break-”Fast” will not slow down
your metabolism at all.
Another big myth that makes people skeptical about fasting is that it can increase your cortisol, or “stress hormone” levels.
This is true for periods of fasting over 36 hours, but this does not
describe short-term fasting. Short-term fasting has no effect on
average cortisol levels and this is an area that has been extensively
studied in the context of Ramadan fasting. Cortisol typically follows
a diurnal variation, which means that its levels peak in the morning
at around 8 a.m. and decline in the evenings. Studies have shown
that what changes during Ramadan is simply the cortisol rhythm;
average levels across 24 hours remain unchanged. In conclusion, the
belief that short-term fasting increases cortisol, which then might
cause all kinds of mischief such as muscle loss, has no scientific
basis whatsoever.
It can be a breath of fresh air just to mentally unburden
yourself from the constant stress of food-worries. This is what
happens when you can accept that something so simple and yet
so natural as fasting can work for you. This is not to be confused
with people who hardly ever eat, such as people who suffer from
anorexia or any other eating disorders. Instead, intermittent fasting becomes a freeing yet powerful choice on more natural terms.
This is “mindful eating” – eating to enjoy and eating when it feels
right by listening to your body. When discussing fasting, it should
be stated that there is nothing wrong with eating. However, many
people obsess over it too much currently and develop eating disorders from their own sense of worry and compulsion. Intermittent
fasting allows us to break free from those burdens and enjoy life the
way it was meant to be on our own terms.
Look over to Matt Mutch’s article on how fasting and alterations to coffee can help with the physiology of your digestion and
nutrient function.
References
Carlson AJ, Hoelzel F. Apparent prolongation of the lifespan of rats by intermittent fasting. J. Nutr. 1946;31:363–375.
Avena NM, Murray S, Gold MS. Comparing the effects of food restriction
and overeating on brain reward systems. Exp. Gerontol.2013;48:1062–1067.
[PubMed]
Arguin H, Dionne IJ, Senechal M, Bouchard DR, Carpentier AC, Ardilouze
JL, Tremblay A, Leblanc C, Brochu M. Short- and long-term effects of continuous versus intermittent restrictive diet approaches on body composition and
the metabolic profile in overweight and obese postmenopausal women: a pilot
study. Menopause. 2012;19:870–876.
[PubMed]
Bouhlel E, Zaouali M, Miled A, Tabka
Z, Bigard X, Shephard R. Ramadan
fasting
and the GH/IGF-1 axis of trained men
during submaximal exercise. Ann Nutr
Metab.
2008;52(4):261-6.
Health Care is changing, and so are your expectations. The chiropractic professionals at the
Life West Health Center are dedicated to creating a
caring and healing environment where traditional
methods and modern research come together.
Highly accomplished chiropractic clinical
faculty and well trained interns understand your
needs and are excited to bring you closer to wellness. This results in a highly informative and integrative patient care experience.
Come check out our Health Center!
Day
Open
Close
Mon
12:00pm
7:30pm
Tues
1:00pm
7:30pm
Wed
12:00pm
7:30pm
Thurs1:00pm
7:30pm
Fri 12:00pm
7:30pm
Sat 9:00am
12:00pm
Sun
Closed
LifeLines the Unity Issue
spring
2014
9
NVC continued...
needs that drive our actions, words, and even our thoughts. It seems
that most times we do or say things arbitrarily and simply hope
that they will turn out the way we like. Often our expectations and
assumptions of others set us up for major disappointment in many
seen and unseen ways. In NVC expectations are also attempts to
meet our needs.
I think one of our main stumbling blocks is that we often
confuse our needs with the strategies we put in place to meet them.
For every need, there are dozens, if not hundreds, of ways to get it
met. Yet, often we think that there are only one or two ways, or one
specific person that will help us get that need met. This can lead to a
lot of suffering and blame.
NVC gives us checks and balances. For example, if we notice
that we’re wanting to have the experience of respect, which is something I often hear in this profession, then there are ways to help illicit
what you are wanting from others and for yourself. In this example
of respect, are you thinking, speaking and doing respectful things?
This includes how you are interpreting or filtering what people are
saying. If not, then maybe respect is not what you’re wanting in
the moment. Maybe you’re wanting empathy, or self-expression, or
humor. But, if you are really wanting respect and the things you are
thinking, saying and doing are not respectful, then it is much more
likely that you will not have the experience of respect that you are
hoping for.
When we are more aware and able (response-able) to address
our needs as well as the needs of others, then we are more likely to
inspire others to join us in helping us meet that need. This is also
known as life energy. Consider what needs are NOT being met when
you are feeling drained of your energy. Then consider what needs
ARE being met when you are fully present, full of energy and more
alive. When we can express to others (and to ourselves) what is so
important to us, without the blame, then others will more likely want
to help us experience what we want also vs. DEMANDING the respect, love or support we are seeking. Again, demanding something
IS an attempt to meet a need, but which need? And does it work?
This process of looking at how my strategies either do, or do
not, work for me (and for others) has been the most challenging and
rewarding work I’ve ever done. I know that I have a choice to either
blame myself, or someone else, for my experience, or to see the humanity and the common ground I share with everyone.
Giraffe or Jackal
NVC uses two animals as symbols. The giraffe is the land
animal with the biggest heart. With its long neck, the giraffe has a
good overview and clear vision. The giraffe stands for compassionate
communication.
The second animal is the jackal, representing competition.
Jackal language is about judging, analyzing and accusing. When we
think we are being unfairly treated, or when we want to impose our
wishes, we tend to use the language of the jackal. Jackal language is
separating. Giraffe language is unifying.
Dr. Rosenberg says, “Never believe anything a jackal says, especially if it’s about you!” Along these same lines, Dr. Donny Epstein
says, “If your story doesn’t empower you, or others, then you know
it’s not true!”
Static or Dynamic Language
To be or not to be, that is the question! Yet it seems to me
that it’s more like a statement. I am. You are. It is. The verb ‘to be’
claims absolute truth, and excludes others’ views, and the facts, overlooking the difference between observations and evaluations.
Using language in this way can lead to feelings of confusion,
overwhelm, and anger, just to name a few. When we can state what
we are observing, feeling, and needing, then this tends to take out
the story of good or bad, right or wrong, and us or them. It helps
bring about feelings of clarity, peace and acceptance, regardless of
what we are going to do or not do about the situation.
The verb ‘to be’ is an all-pervasive part of our language. As
Dr. Rosenberg claims, it is one of the ways in which we do see life as
the process that it is. These phrases, rather, create still frames where
we hold on to our views, argue about them, or feel bad about them.
Static language either makes you wrong, or somebody else
wrong, when there is a challenge. Dynamic language lets everyone
off the hook, where you are free to choose, in the moment, what will
be most life-serving.
Examples of Static and Dynamic Language
Static: My house IS messy. I AM a slob.
Dynamic: I notice clothes laying all over the floor, and dishes on my
counter, and I am worried about what people will think if they come
over.
Static: You ARE a jerk.
Dynamic: When I said ‘hello’ you looked the other way, and I felt
hurt.
Static: Medical doctors ARE dangerous.
Dynamic: I worry about the safety and efficacy of what they do and
I would like to educate people about other choices.
Our experience of the world can be largely influenced by the
language we use and in turn creates our thoughts and conversations.
Ultimately, our language and consciousness make or break our relationships, both personally and professionally. I think the crux of this
work lies in our ability to relate rather than our attempt to control a
situation.
I am often dumbfounded by the
situations and frustrations that we all come
up against. We are smart, caring people who
want peace and love. Yet, at times it can
seem like we are trapped in a labyrinth with
no way out. I see NVC as one of the popcorn trails.
10
LifeLines the Unity Issue
spring
2014
B i k e Sa f e t y f o r Ev e ryo n e
As Chiropractors to be, we can probably agree that keeping
a healthy spine is essential to a healthy quality of life. So there you
are, with your healthy spine, riding your bike and you get in an accident that causes you to take a blow to the head. What good is your
spine, if your brain isn’t working?
Since 1975, “deaths among bicyclists 20 and older have
increased 193 percent.” Although “less than two percent of motor
vehicle crash deaths are bicyclists, the most serious injuries among a
majority of those killed are to the head, highlighting the importance
of wearing a bicycle helmet. Ninety-one percent of bicyclist killed
in 2009 reportedly weren’t wearing helmets.”(1) This translates to
597 people who died an almost completely unavoidable death, as
compared to 52 people who died even though they were wearing a
helmet.
There is currently no law requiring individuals over the
age of 17 to wear a helmet. There is also no law that says everyone
should get their spines checked, but we do it anyway because we
know it increases quality of life. We tell everyone we know to do it
LifeLines the Unity Issue
spring
2014
by Fabi Zawalski
because we love them, want them to be healthy and lower their risk
of disease.
So, I’m telling you, that “helmet use has been estimated to
reduce the risk of head injury by 85 percent.” (2) Since I love my
Life West family, I urge you all to wear a helmet the next time you
go for a ride. Two percent is a small chance, until it is you or a loved
one. Protect your spine AND your brain. Be healthy, and stay safe
Life West!
For more information on safety
tips, statistics, and current bicycling laws
please visit the Insurance Institute for
Highway Safety at www.iihs.org.
1.http://www.bhsi.org/stats.htm#allages
2.http://www.iihs.org/iihs/topics/t/pedestrians-and-bicyclists/topicoverview
11
Healthy Habits
by Rich Manley
Get your Glu tes G oing
Two new specialized pieces of equipment have arrived in the Life West fitness center: a Reverse Hyperextension, and a Glute Hamstring Developer (GHD). When used correctly, both will help strengthen the all-important posterior chain muscles- most notably the glutes
and the lower back postural musculature.
These areas are crucial in helping prevent low back injury and pain, as well as allowing lumbar and pelvic adjustments to hold for
longer periods of time. Not only that, these muscles also are often attributed to the weak link in an athlete’s composition and can hinder
performance. However, as with most exercises, the technique must be carefully learned in order to avoid injury and gain the desired training effect. Here’s some information and tips to get you started.
The Reverse Hyperextension
This machine was invented by powerlifter Louie Simmons. After fracturing a vertebra in his lumbar spine, numerous doctors told
him he would never compete again. By creating and using this machine, he rehabbed himself back to a 900-pound squat. Concentrically,
this exercise strengthens the lumbar spinal erectors and glutes. Eccentrically, it stretches those muscles and tractions/distracts the spine,
allowing intervertebral discs to heal actively via imbibition, akin to a flexion/distraction table.
Use lighter weight for higher reps when starting out with this machine (1-3 sets of 10-25 reps), progressing to heavier weights when
your back becomes strong enough.
Execution:
1) Put one foot into the strap with the strap around the achilles tendon.
2) Step up onto the foothold on the opposite side and grab the handles, placing your abdomen on the pad, and putting your other foot into
the strap.
3) With the knees extended and head up, hinge at the hips and bring the feet up so that your legs are about parallel to the ground. The
glutes and low back muscles should be firing.
4) Slightly resisting the force of gravity and still keeping the knees extended, allow the weight to pull your legs under the pad, but avoid going into hyperflexion at the hips.
5) Repeat until your desired gluteal hypertrophy is attained!
Glute Hamstring D e vel op er (GHD)
This machine can be used for a few different exercises like abdominal crunches or back extension variations. My favorites are the
two explained here: GHD situps and Glute/Ham raises. They are also the ones I believe to have the most difficult technique in using this
piece of equipment. Start slowly with these exercises until your form is dialed in, then give higher repetitions at a faster pace a try. But be
warned, these two movements are tough.
GHD Situp Execution:
1) Adjust the foot plate so you are sitting on the pad with your hips just past its
peak.
2) With your knees slightly bent, bring your torso just below parallel to the
horizontal plane. Make sure your knees remain slightly bent in this extended
position, or the stretch on your psoas muscles will cause discomfort and possibly pain in the low back.
3) In the bottom position, quickly extend the knees to engage the glutes and hamstrings while using your
abdominal muscles to pull your torso back to the starting position.
4) Repeat the motion, paying careful attention to your technique so your low back does not hyperextend
and cause any injuries.
Glute Ham R aise
1) Place the foot plate far enough away so that your knees are snugly held against the pad, on the side closest to the foot plate.
2) Extend your knees and keep your back straight so your body is parallel to the floor. This is your starting position.
3) Keeping the hips extended, hinge at the knees and bring your torso up until it is perpendicular to the ground. You will pull yourself up
using almost exclusively the hamstring and glutes. The low back should remain in the same position throughout the movement.
4) Slowly extend the knees again until you are back at the starting position.
5) Repeat until your hamstrings scream at you to stop. Keep in mind that the joint movement in this exercise is at the knees, not at the hips
or the lumbar spine.
As always, feel free to ask the fitness center staff, who consists of Kate Ness, Austin Ivans, and myself, if you have any questions or
need assistance with anything. We are here to serve. Stay safe and enjoy the new and improved fitness center!
12
LifeLines the Unity Issue
spring
2014
Ta s t y N o m s
P e s t o S pa g h e t t i S q ua s h
Vegan Pesto:
1 1/2 cups baby spinach leaves
3/4 cup fresh basil leaves
1/2 cup almonds
½ cup walnuts
2 cloves garlic, peeled and quartered (the
more garlic, the spicier it’ll be)
3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
Blend all ingredients together in a
blender or mixing device. Add salt and pepper to taste, as well as nut measurements.
After first blend, taste and experiment. Each
time you make it, you will find what works
best for your palate
contributed by Katie Schlein
Spaghetti Squash & Chicken
1 glass-baking sheet
1 bottle of OLDE Thompson Rustic Tuscan Seasoning mix (shaker
bottle)
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
½ cup of extra-virgin olive oil
Pre-heat oven to 375 degrees F. Place Chicken Breasts on glass baking sheet and drizzle EVOO and seasoning mix over. Bake for 35-40
minutes until tender. Cut cooked chicken into cubes.
1 Spaghetti Squash
1 glass-baking sheet
1 bottle of OLDE Thompson Rustic Tuscan Seasoning mix season’s mix
1 cup of chopped basil
1 cup of cherry tomatoes sliced
1 cup of Olive Oil
Cut Spaghetti Squash long ways (hotdog cut) and fill glass pan
with ½ cup of water or until bottom is barely covered. Sprinkle
Olde Thompson seasoning mix on uncooked squash to liking. Place squash on side in baking sheet or face down for
more tender and soft cooked spaghetti squash. Cook at 375 for
35-40 min. Let cool and scrape with a fork. Be careful to wear
potholder. Squash can be hot!
After cooked, combine chopped basil, cherry tomatoes and
chicken. Drizzle 1 cup of Olive Oil. Can also sprinkle more
of Olde Thompson Tuscan Mix. Lastly add homemade Vegan
Pesto and stir together. Enjoy!
Cocobana Cookies
contributed by Liz Zamudio
Ingredients:
3 cups of Coconut flour (Nutiva brand from Costco is great!)
2 cups of Coconut milk
11/2 cup of Coconut oil
3 ripe bananas (The more ripened the better!)
1/2 cup of walnuts
1/2 -1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips
Makes about 20 cookies.
Instructions:
Mash the bananas into a lumpy paste
Mix bananas in a large bowl with the rest of the ingredients
On a baking sheet, make about 20 cookies to whatever shape
your heart desires
Oven bake at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes. Until
golden brown
Muchisimas Gracias!
LifeLines the Unity Issue
spring
2014
13
StopClaim_Lifellines_8x15_Layout 1 7/18/13 10:49 AM Page 1
Want to STOP
a Malpractice
Claim?
Our Claims
Advice
Hotline May
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in its Tracks
At NCMIC, our Claims Advice Hotline
staff has managed just about every type
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doctors through potential claims situations.
Thousands of D.C.s have averted a claim
after calling the Hotline.* Stopping claims
before they start is just one more way
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Call 1-800-769-2000,
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*Based on the claims data of NCMIC and its family of malpractice insurance companies since inception.
We Take Care of Our Own is a registered service mark of NCMIC Group, Inc. and NCMIC Risk Retention Group, Inc.
©2013
NCMIC NFL 3520-2
14
LifeLines the Unity Issue
spring
2014
G e t o u t o f To w n
M u i r Wo o d s
by Fabi Zawalski
Muir Woods spans 560 acres of protected Redwood forest. And if you haven’t been there yet, Spring is the perfect time to spend the
day in the woods. Located just twelve miles North of the Golden Gate Bridge, it takes about 45 minutes to get there. Parking is free and
admission is $7 per person over the age of 16. It tends to get busy on the weekends so they advise visiting early in the morning, late afternoon, or during the week. Average temperatures of 40 to 70 degrees offers a great escape from the heat.
There are 6 miles of spider-like paved and unpaved trails that cross and connect. As vast as the park is, the trails are all marked
so you know where you are and where you’re going at all times. There are several options to keep you busy including a hike up Mt. Tam,
which leads you to a spectacular view of the Bay and Marin County.
The magnitude of the trees was really surprising. It was a wonderful reminder of how beautiful and powerful Mother Nature is
and how small but impactful I can be in this world. The park is beautiful and peaceful with the cool breeze blowing and the soundtrack of
rushing water accompanying my walk. It definitely got chilly, especially as the sun went down under the canopy of leaves, so a jacket was
necessary for me.
A day was not enough to explore everything this park has to offer. It’s one of those places that you can go several times and always
find something new and adventurous to discover. I will definitely be heading back there soon. Maybe I’ll see you there!
“In practice, with
my wife
raising
our family.
Where do I
see the profession in
five years?
I see the
profession
in the exact same place. Still fighting with
those DCs who are too lazy to go to medical school wanting to expand the scope of
our great profession.”
John
Maltby,
The Buzz
Where do
You see
Yourself &
Chiropractic
in 5 years?
“My mission
is to inspire
understanding and unity
of heart and
mind. My reason for study
is to unite and
shine awareness on our
human connection; to facilitate wonder,
accountability and change in those I work
with. I am eager to learn from the best
in the business and possess mindfulness
in order to achieve my mission, and am
doing so at this wonderful time five years
from now. The energy generated by all the
people receiving care is healing and people
gravitate to be in that space. Together we
are able to open the path for self-discovery,
accountability and change.”
“My goal is to be
established within the
first two years. In
that time, it would
be awesome to be
married and have
a family started. I
don’t want to just be seeing people, I want to impact and
transform my community. I want to find a church that’s
a good fit for me, do health talks and provide transformation plans through Maximized Living. I want to
partner with companies like Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s
and screen with them so they can be a company that
sells healthy stuff and are actually providing good quality
health for their employees. I want to partner with local
corporations and give them empowerment through personal goals. On the day-to-day, I want to see people regain
their power. I want to give them tools to live their lives at
100% through Chiropractic. I don’t want them to be held
back from anything. I want to help patients create the warrior mentality so they can overcome on their own.”
“For the first time in my life I have a vision for
what I want my life to look like five years from
now. It feels incredible! I see myself being an enthusiastic, hardworking, and happy chiropractor
surrounded by loved ones in a thriving community. I will be fresh out of school in five years so
I am sure that I will be facing challenges every
day and still figuring things out. At this moment
I don’t have any details set. I definitely think that
there is a benefit to knowing exactly what you want, hopefully by the time
I graduate I will have more of a specific image of what I want my office to
look like and how I want things done. Right now I just feel satisfied knowing that I am working toward a higher goal. I know that my purpose will
motivate me and lead me where I am meant to go.”
Mike Pierce
Maddie Wallace
LifeLines the Unity Issue
spring
2014
Lauren Whittaker
15
This Is
GLADIATOR COUNTRY
The Life Chiropractic College West Gladiators Rugby program continued its undefeated season and pursuit of a national championship April
26th by defeating the Reno Zephyrs 62-17 on Treasure Island. The first
year team advanced its season record to an impressive 12–0.
“The Gladiators met every challenge a tough Reno squad presented
with effective teamwork and selfless play. The Northern California Rugby
Football Union (NCRFU) Division III championship title in their first
competitive season is just the beginning for this team,” remarked Assistant Coach Vicki Hudson.
Life West President Dr. Brian Kelly commented, “This was an incredible achievement for a first season team. I congratulate all the players,
coaches Tez Molloy and Vicki Hudson, and all the support crew. It was
a tough first half where the opposition rattled our team and it took a while for the team to get into
our game plan. I was especially pleased with Will Johnson whose experience calmed the side down,
and from there we just kept scoring tries. The success of the team to date has brought a lot of awareness to Life West, and to chiropractic. I wish the team all the best during May as they look to win a
national championship”.
Congratulations, Gladiators!
see the full article online on our Facebook page!
L ife W est S oftball : M ore
On any given Wednesday or Thursday night, you can find Life
West athletes, student fans, motivational sponsors, and coaches like
Mr. Drew Boster and Dr. Marc Deschamps gathered together. Just two
miles from campus, at Alden E. Oliver Park off Hesperian, the event
is softball. This has become a beautiful way for students and staff to
spend an hour together over America’s greatest pastime.
With players coming and going, new students fill the spots
of graduating seniors while others stand in for injured players or for
those whose clinic appointments run a little longer. The Life West
team has kept to its roots
by putting together a 100%
student affiliated team each
season. Not to mention, both
teams are the most welladjusted people on the field!
There are softball trophies dating back to the early
90’s floating around Life
West College, as it has been a
quiet tradition for the school
for many years. The Men’s
team has been on a roll the
past four quarters, making
it to the championship each
season and winning the tournament all but one season
due to some controversial
rules. The team is young and
fresh at the moment, gelling together very well at every position on the
field as well as at the plate. They have even been known to put over
thirty runs up on the scoreboard! Only a few more short months of
play will tell if this Life West team can pull off another championship
run.
The student body has also sparked a new addition with a co-ed
team. This team is split evenly between men and women, where teamwork and playing to each other’s strengths is paramount to its success.
The brand new co-ed team came out strong in their first season, starting off with a back-to-back doubleheader as its opener. The team lost
a last inning lead in the first game but bounced back. They ended up
beating the opposing team by so many runs that the game was stopped
due to the Mercy Rule. The amount of excitement and interest in the
write for
than just a
Gbyame
Ben Terrano
team has showed support that will continue to grow in future years
as well.
Most importantly, spreading our Chiropractic message in
our local community has had its impact. In the coming weeks, some
Life West Chiropractic Softball shirts will be popping up around
the school. The shirts are for players and non-players alike. The shirt
features the Life West dark green with Chiropractic and a giant spine
along the back. This will aid in the already pressing question from
other teams and Hayward Area Recreation District officials, “What’s
Life West?”. A quick “Have
you had your nervous system
checked?” can ignite a long
conversation into what we, as
students, are really about.
These are a competitive bunch of students who
also enjoy getting outside of
the confines of school with
colleagues to have fun. Some
players have good experience with playing baseball or
softball, and others are basic
athletes themselves. Some have
zero experience as it is. All are
welcome to come out and be a
part of the experience!
This torch has been
passed down and will continue
to be, as long as we always have ten players. Either way, the teams are
always looking for new students, lower
and upper quarters, to step up to the
plate and fill a spot on the roster when
the time is needed. With this season
halfway through, now is the time to
continue to build and grow for seasons
to come. Next season starts in early
June. Come on out and support Life
West Softball! Both teams schedules
are posted right across from the student
lounge on the sports board.
LIFELINES
We’re interested in what you have to share. Whether it’s about
Chiropractic, health, nutrition, philosophy, food, or art,
we want it!
Send submissions to
[email protected]
16
LifeLines the Unity Issue
spring
2014