Our Health & Wellness Blog

Authenticity is the New Positivity

November 6, 2019

Much has been written on how to “survive” cancer. “Fight the good fight”, and “stay positive” are reflex recommendations post-diagnosis, fueled by a culture that enthrones heroes and achievement. In the midst of a significant shock and quick on the heels of overwhelming treatment information, cancer patients are meant to ignore their fear and think positive. All. The. Time.

Massage Benefits for Patients with Cancer

November 7, 2018

After over 4 years working as a massage therapist at OICC, there is one thing that continually amazes me: The willingness and perseverance of our patients to feel well during difficult cancer treatments.

The Skill of Receiving

December 20, 2017

It is better to give than to receive. At holiday time, we hear this repeated over and over.
From Scrooge to the Grinch, we have learned to accept that the benefits of gifting are
all in the act of giving.

Book Review: The Bright Hour: A Memoir of Living and Dying by Nina Riggs

September 29, 2017

It is a warm and compelling rendering of a life facing cancer, one that includes both the fervent desire to live and the seemingly opposite (but not) way of keeping death well acknowledged and well in view.

Reflexology and Cancer

July 17, 2017

People often wonder how Reflexology can help those living with cancer.
For most of us, Reflexology is often thought of as a really great foot massage with relaxing benefits. While that is completely true, Reflexology is more than just a foot massage.

Massage Therapy for Gardeners

June 16, 2017

How you can you tell a truly dedicated gardener? A beautiful flower garden or productive vegetable patch are the usual signs.

What if Death is Not a Failure?

April 20, 2017

aving worked with cancer, both professionally and personally over the last 15 years, I’ve spent thousands of hours with people diagnosed with cancer. Most have recovered and are now only in the shadow of that diagnosis. Some have died.

Fish Oil and Prostate Cancer – Help or Harm?

March 12, 2017

In 2013, you may have seen some striking headlines about fish oil that made it into the popular media. Statements like “Link between omega‑3 fatty acids and increased prostate cancer confirmed” in Science Daily, and “Men who take omega‑3 supplements at 71% higher risk of prostate cancer” in the New York Daily News.

Exercise for People with Cancer: Evidence Based Recommendations

March 12, 2017

ew will dispute the power of physical activity to improve overall physical and mental health. It’s challenging, if not impossible, to think of another intervention that has such broad benefits with essentially no negative side effects.

Probing the World of Probiotics: Interview with an Expert

March 10, 2017

With a growing understanding of just how large, diverse and important the populations of bacteria living within the human body are, research into how we can alter the microbiome and what potential health benefits this may have is exploding.