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Miami’s Most Endangered Locales
Our Miami acupuncture team truly cares about the Miami environment. While Miami continues to remain one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country, some of the city’s most popular areas are endangered. The South Florida area is under constant threat from political, financial, and environmental issues. As a result, some of the residents’ favorite areas are in danger of becoming extinct. What are the most endangered areas in Miami?
10. North Beach
Everyone knows about South Beach, but North Beach is also popular. It is known for its revitalizing neighborhoods, unique atmosphere, and the history it contains. The entire area has a modern style popular during the 1950s. Unfortunately, it has become run down in recent years and it shows no signs of stopping. People who want to see the North Beach persist should donate to PlanNoBe.
9. Dr. DuPuis: Medical Office and Drug Store
This popular landmark is located in Lemon City and has been called Little Haiti by tourists and residents alike. Dr. DuPuis opened this popular site around the turn of the century. Unfortunately, it has become abandoned and has been falling apart. It is known for its arcade but someone needs to restore the building to keep the doors open.
8. Miami-Dade County Courthouse
While this is a popular place for people to visit it actually is on the endangered list because the historic landmark is simply falling apart. The local government has debated whether or not it is worth saving. Hopefully, the government decides to keep it repaired.
7. Coconut Grove Playhouse
The Coconut Grave Playhouse was originally opened in 1926. For decades, it was the epicenter for culture in the neighborhood. It has also played host to countless plays as Miami’s premier theater. Unfortunately, it isn’t used for much these days and has been deteriorating quickly.
6. Little Havana
While many people looking to experience a little culture come to this area, this region is actually a diverse place for people looking for a lower cost of living. Unfortunately, it has become subject to gentrification and many people cannot afford to live in the area for much longer.
5. Biscayne Aquifer and Bay
While most people think the bay still looks beautiful, it has suffered the damages of environmental change. This includes runoff from fertilizers and golf courses along with warming ocean temperatures. This can damage the animals living in the bay along with the plants that grow on the bottom.
4. Biscayne National Park
This beautiful park faces many of the same problems as the bay. The park is an oasis near downtown that was created to protect the corals and animals that inhabit them. Unfortunately, the water quality has dropped due to acidification that bleaches the corals and has been killing the animals.
3. Miami Marine Stadium
This stadium used to host popular shows for decades. Gloria Estefan even played here. In the past few years, it hasn’t been used as much. This has led to a deterioration in conditions. A restoration effort is needed to keep it open.
2. The Everglades
This area is well-known as one of the unique ecosystems on the planet. It has played home to mangroves and alligators along with providing the drinking water for the state. The environmental conditions have damaged the Everglades to the point that the ecosystem might collapse.
1. Richmond Pine Rocklands
This is also a unique ecosystem known for the limestone rock and slash pine along with the wildflowers. The ecosystem has been ripped up and developed by large corporations in recent years that has released environmentally damaging waste that has destroyed the area. It is danger of being destroyed completely.
Top Seven Hidden Spots in Miami
Everyone here at Michael Forman, DOM acupuncture Miami loves Miami. The beautiful thing about Miami is it truly is a melting pot of cultures. People who hail from all around the world have come to call Miami home, which is what makes it such an eclectic place. Truly unique when compared to anywhere else in the world. Due to this, there is always something new, waiting, almost hiding around every corner. In fact, there are locations even most locals don’t know about, each of which delivers something almost magical. Here are seven of the top hidden spots in all of Miami.
Rogue’s Courtyard
The Fresh restaurant looks like it is frozen in time. With Moroccan designs and a beautiful outdoor fireplace, the spot in North Beach is a must visit when you want something unique and different from the norm.
19th Hole and the Biltmore
The Biltmore Hotel stands out from the rest of the Coral Gables surroundings. Beyond taking a break from a Miami Hurricanes game, The Biltmore provides a beautiful golf course. Many consider it one of the top courses in the state. However, you don’t need to hit the links just to enjoy the well quaffed beauty. With the 19th Hold Bar & Grill at The Biltmore, it is possible to enjoy a delicious meal and a refreshing beverage all at the same time.
The Little Farm House
You don’t need to drive to Key West to experience a traditional Key West home. This house has been used in all sorts of different movies, plus with the lush forest and trees surrounding the grounds it makes it feel like you stumbled upon a secret little village just off of Miami River.
Kampong
Situated in the beautiful Coconut Grove community of Miami is a nine acre home called The Kampong. Here there is an incredible mixture of Spanish and southeastern Asian styling. It is as if someone transplanted a small portion of Thailand and mixed it with traditional Spanish decorations to come up with something truly unique. Plus, as one of the largest saltwater mangrove forests in all of southern Florida, the destination is as beautiful as it is curious.
Wat Buddharangsi Buddhist Temple
Speaking of East meets West, Miami is typically known for Roman Catholic churches and Jewish synagogues. However, there are an assortment of different religious facilities throughout the city. This includes this Buddhist temple. Most locals visit The Redlands region of Miami for the baked goods and antique markets. However, hidden away is the Theravada Buddhist temple. It has been up for over 30 years. It also allows visitors to walk in through its doors. It is an excellent spot to just take in the local beauty and to center oneself.
Stoneage Antiques
South Florida is a hotspot for retired individuals. They come here for the surf and the sun. They also bring items near and dear to their hearts. Due to this, Miami is an antique hunter’s dream.
One of the best destinations in the entire city is Stoneage Antiques. This is especially the case if you love historical artifacts. You can find anything from 18th century cannons to wagon wheels. If you’ve been looking for something, make sure to check out Stoneage.
El Fresco Courtyard
Tucked away just outside of Little Havana is the El Fresco Courtyard. Here, visitors will find a collection of art displays, picnic tables, performances that seem to matriculate out of nowhere, and a few fun food trucks that also functions as portable bars as well. It is as if the location just kind of pops up out of nowhere. It is also what makes it such an incredible, hidden spot.
The Best Places To Eat Healthy in Miami
Miami is known not only for its surf, sand and sun, but for bringing people together from all walks of life. This, in turn, brings about an incredible range of food offerings as well. Our acupuncture Miami staff decided to gather our favorite healthy eateries. Thankfully, it is not all food you need to work off when you’re done. After all, with those who want to look good on the beach, having healthy options is important. If you have been searching for healthier alternatives when eating out, here are some of the best places to eat healthy in Miami.
Elianna Andriola
Are you a cereal fan? If so, this is the spot for you. Located in Basil Park, you’ll eat some of the best tasting cereal you’ve ever had. With a collection of granola and fresh fruit, you may end up just starting every morning with a bowl from right here.
Bryan in the Kitchen.
Situated on Second Avenue, everything you find here is of the organic nature. However, it is more than just salads. You can enjoy a pressed panini if you’re craving a bit more sustenance. The coconut broccoli spinach and butternut squash are out of this world as well. Plus, if you have a gluten allergy, you’ll find more than your share of eating options here. This is a great way to pick up a fresh lunch during your lunch break. It won’t weigh you down and you’ll be both alert and ready to take on the day.
Ten Fruits
Located downtown, why not put the fast food to rest for a meal and try out some fresh fruit. Whether you are a fan of pressed juices made to order or you want a smoothie to go, this is the spot for you. There’s just nothing like watching someone whip up a delicious beverage for you right on the spot. This way, you know it is always made fresh.
Under the Mango Tree
Tired of searching for vegan options? Or maybe just tired of asking restaurants if they have any vegan options? If so, Under the Mango Tree is the place to be. Located on Sixth street in South Beach, everything you find here is vegan. So, whether you want an acai bowl or something specially made just for you, it is necessary to check this place out. Plus, it’s especially inviting and as soon as you walk in you’ll just want to hand and louge until it closes.
Jar + Fork
If you’ve been reading the latest diet trends (or even staying on some of the diets yourself), chances are you’ve come across the paleo diet. This is basically where you can only eat foods that existed during the paleolithic times. Essentially, no processed foods, no bread, pasta or anything like that. If it wasn’t around during that time, you can’t eat it. The idea is to remove unnatural sugars, processed foods and other items that can lead to health problems. Jar + Fork serves up meals based on this principal. Located on Flager Street in downtown, you’ll need to check this place out. It proves you don’t need a ton of new aged ingredients in order to have a great tasting meal.
Pura Vida Miami
Out on South Beach and want something healthy? There’s something about eating a cheeseburger while in a bathing suit that just doesn’t feel right. At Pura Vida Miami on Washington Ave, you can dine on salads, seafood and a handful of freshly made items. Most of the seafood catches are brought in earlier in the morning, so you don’t need to worry about seafood that has been sitting around.
Breast Cancer Awareness Month: How Acupuncture Might Help
Breast Cancer Awareness Month has one purpose: to increase the social consciousness concerning breast cancer. Traditional medicine has come a long way in treating this pervasive disease—from chemotherapy to radiation treatments to surgery—though the side effects of these treatments are often harsh and damaging themselves. Traditional medicine treats the disease, but what treats the pain and new problems caused by traditional medicine? To combat such negative reactions to cancer treatment, Alternative and Complementary Medicine seeks to provide patients with a second line of relief. Acupuncture and Nutrition Response Testing in particular have been shown to successfully mitigate the side effects of cancer treatment.
Here is how Acupuncture and Nutrition Response Testing can a be vital complement to your cancer treatment:
Acupuncture
In several studies conducted since 2000, Acupuncture has been proven successful in treating many of the symptoms associated with breast cancer treatment. These symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Hot Flashes
- Vomiting
- Pain
- Loss of Appetite
In one study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 2000, 104 women being treated for breast cancer with chemotherapy showed a generally positive reaction to Acupuncture for nausea control. All 104 were given anti-nausea medication, though some were randomly selected to undergo Acupuncture treatment, as well. The women who received Acupuncture showed significant improvement in their nausea symptoms in comparison to their non-Acupuncture treated counterparts.
In 2003, another study was published that showed the effectiveness of Acupuncture for pain reduction in cancer patients. Of the patients chosen for the study, 36% saw a reduction in pain, which is a significant success when compared to the 2% who saw pain reduction from a placebo-style Acupuncture.
Nutrition Response Testing
Getting proper nutrition is essential to anyone battling cancer. In order for the body to continue to fight the disease, it needs to receive the nutrients that make it and its systems function properly. Nutrition Response Testing analyzes the body’s neurological reflexes to see whether it is getting the nutrition that it needs. Once we get the results, we can better support any deficiencies or surpluses that are present with diet, lifestyle changes, and nutritional supplementation.
The side effects associated with breast cancer treatment, such as suppressed appetite, constipation, and fatigue, make optimal nutrition pivotal to recovery. What you put into your body naturally affects your energy levels, and having as much energy as possible before, during, and after cancer treatment is extremely important—not only for increased health, but for increased morale and higher spirits, as well—so knowing exactly what supplemental nutrition you need can help you stay motivated to keep fighting.
As with any form of cancer treatment, it is important to consider how medications and treatments will interact with each other. Talk to an acupuncturist to see how Acupuncture can help you manage your cancer treatment symptoms. Dr. Michael Forman and his team at the Total Restoration Health Center in Miami are dedicated to helping you explore your options based on your specific needs through Acupuncture and Nutrition Response Testing. Call today to set up an appointment.
305-741-2102
Acupuncture for Depression
Not a lot of people know that acupuncture is highly effective means for treating depression. Typically, antidepressant medications cause many unwanted side effects which can include common symptoms of depression. Taking prescription drugs only masks symptoms of depression. Traditional Chinese Medicine works to bring the organ systems and the brain into balance, which is far more effective and less expensive. Rather than taxing the body’s organ systems, Acupuncture works to strengthen them. In fact, research has revealed that acupuncture can help improve depression.
Western Results Vs. Traditional Acupuncture Results
Depression is often treated through many months of therapy before any results can occur as stated by the Anxiety and Depression Association of America. In Western medicine, depression is treated through medication that comes with potent side effects and taxes the body’s organ systems.
On the other hand, acupuncture has been proven to alleviate anxiety and lessen the symptoms of depression, even in one treatment. This means that acupuncture addresses the biological root of the depression and where it stems from, instead of merely dealing with the symptoms.
Why Acupuncture Works for Depression
The theory behind acupuncture is that it restores, builds and redirects the “Qi” or life energy within the body. Although there are people who don’t subscribe to this idea, Oriental medicine experts have actually revealed that “Qi” pertains to the chemical reactions and metabolic functions in the body.
Needles are inserted close to nerves in the problem area, which then prompts the brain to produce feel-good chemicals that alleviate pain and anxiety. This allows your body to heal itself without having to resort to expensive medications that comes with undesirable effects.
The reason why acupuncture has garnered an ever-growing large following in the past decade is because it works. Science has also backed this up. In a study published in 2013, students who underwent just a 20-minute acupuncture session, reported feeling better compared to the group that didn’t.
Although everyone is different and healing is does not have a predictable pattern, it remains that acupuncture is a far healthier option for those interested in bypassing the well known disadvantages that comes with chemical medicines.
Acupuncture for Female Infertility
Acupuncture has been an age old form of alternative medicine in the east. Its benefits have been long enjoyed by many and covers a broad range of ailment, diseases, and conditions. Unknown to many, acupuncture is also a good treatment for infertility.
How Acupuncture Helps Infertility
Acupuncture treats infertility successfully by addressing areas such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, endometriosis and more—some of the most common causes of infertility in women.
More than just tackling problem areas, acupuncture also increases blood flow to a woman’s endometrium, thickening the lining of the uterus so a fertilized egg adheres better. This results in the likelihood of a miscarriage being less.
Starting Acupuncture Treatment
Acupuncture has many similarities with physical therapy in terms of process. In the case if insemination, patients are usually advised to undergo anywhere from three to four months of treatment before the planned insemination, which can be either through natural, donor-egg transfer, or in-vitro means.
In a 1996 publication by Stener-Victorin et al., doctors have suggested that women receive acupuncture treatments in combination with traditional and herbal procedures for the most effective outcome.
Typical Infertility Conditions That Can Be Treated with Acupuncture
Acupuncture is ideal for women suffering from fallopian tube spasms. Through acupuncture, a woman’s fallopian tube is expanded back to its normal state. Those who have been troubled with unexplained infertility, repeated miscarriage, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), as well as luteal phase defect can garner positive results from incorporating acupuncture into their month-long treatments.
Acupuncture for Male Infertility
Acupuncture has a long list of proven benefits that are recommended by experts for both males and females. Although infertility treatments are commonly utilized by women, acupuncture is versatile in its ability to address infertility problems in men as well. In the past decades alone, sperm quality and the average sperm count in Americans has gone down to as much as 40% due to various factors brought on my modernity.
What Research Says
Research has shown that herbal medicines and acupuncture are effective treatments for individuals looking to enhance their fertility. In fact, in the book ‘The Infertility Cure’ by Randine Lewis, a PhD researcher, says that acupuncture can significantly increase sperm count percentage without any negative effects.
Sperm quality and production can also be improved by acupuncture by restoring hormonal balance.
How Acupuncture Works in Aiding Infertility
Acupuncture subscribes to the premise that all living creatures are formed with life energy called “Qi,” which circulates within our body’s subcutaneous space and inner pathways. Blockage and stagnation of these pathways can cause many health issues and diseases.
Since acupuncture effectively frees any blocked pathway within the body, it allows this energy to properly circulate again. Chinese medical experts state that restoring the natural balance of the body can provide treatment for male infertility.
Holistic Male Infertility Treatment Using Acupuncture
Chinese medical experts recommend using acupuncture in a series of treatments that take into account lifestyle factors, herbs, nutrition, exercise programs, as well as stress recovery for the best possible results. Any of these can be useful in aiding the effectiveness of an acupuncture program for infertility.
Some additional ways men can improve sperm quality along with acupuncture are eating organic foods, taking food-based supplements such as selenium and fish oil, avoiding saturated trans-fats, and maintaining normal body weight.
Acupuncture also helps a person manage stress levels better, which aids in all body system support; because of this acupuncture has a positive effect on male fertility.
Healthy Holiday Eating Tips
The vast majority of holiday season activities center around food. Even if we have a lifestyle of eating healthy, organic, non-GMO foods, it’s normal to feel pressure to eat dishes made with ingredients we’ve committed to avoiding at social gatherings. Our decision to eat healthy foods that bolster our health year-round is an important one and shouldn’t be set aside during the holiday season. With a little planning, however, it’s completely possible to enjoy multiple social gatherings and stay true to a healthy eating plan. Follow these tips to eat healthy, nutritious food during the holiday season.
Invitations to holiday feasts and family dinners
Don’t be afraid to peek into the kitchen or dining room to find out what’s on the menu if your host is providing all the food. Then take a minute to plan what you’re going to eat. The following foods usually make it onto most holiday tables and are less likely to contain harmful additives:
- Garden salads with all-natural dressing
- Fruit and vegetable platters
- Homemade salsa
- Baked potatoes
- Steamed rice
- Steamed vegetables
- Nut mixes
- Dark chocolate
Ask your host for olive oil and vinegar to dress your salad and add flavor to other foods on your plate. You should also feel comfortable asking if any of the main dishes, such as the turkey, are organic, and raised without antibiotics or growth hormones. If so, choose low-calorie turkey breast and avoid fatty accompaniments that contain mystery ingredients, such as stuffing and gravy.
How to handle holiday potlucks
The nice thing about potluck holiday gatherings is that you can bring a flavorful dish made with organic, gluten-free or non-GMO ingredients. Even though some of us might hesitate to share our culinary needs with others, don’t be afraid to do so during the get-together’s planning stages. If enough invitees speak up, it might make sense to include nutritious, additive-free appetizers, main courses, and desserts.
Drinks and other libations
Holiday gatherings usually are flush with sugary or alcoholic beverages that can easily throw off our eating program. It’s especially important to avoid drinking too much alcohol at holiday gatherings, as this can lower your inhibitions and inspire overeating. When you can make beverage contributions to a holiday gathering, consider bringing:
- Organic, dairy-free eggnog
- Organic, dairy-free plain or chocolate milk
- Sparkling water
- Sulfite-free, organic wine
- Organic fruit juice with no sugar added
Some rules of engagement worth mentioning
- Have an all-natural, healthy meal or snack before you go to any holiday event. If you’re not hungry, you won’t focus on the food.
- Don’t overstuff yourself. Even if there are healthy, nutritious selections, eat until you’re satisfied and not until you’re bursting at the seams.
- Focus on the party, not on the buffet. Find friends and family you haven’t seen in a while and spend the time catching up. Dance, sing, make new friends, and network when the occasion calls for it.
- Bring something to the table other than food. Contribute decorations or help organize holiday games and activities
If you’re looking for a more individualized approach to nutrition, Nutrition Response Testing (NRT) can provide this. NRT is a process of analyzing the body in order to find out the underlying causes of illness. Dr. Forman and his compassionate team at Total Health Restoration can perform some simple tests, which will help determine if there is an underlying stress or dysfunction in a particular area of your body. Once they’ve determined your specific nutritional need, they can begin a customized nutrition program for you.
Eating Healthy By Eating Natural
Most people want to be healthy, regardless of their current eating habits or activity levels. No one wakes up hoping to feel sluggish, tired, bloated, or uncomfortable. And nobody enjoys dealing with chronic symptoms that may occur after eating certain foods. But disease speaks with symptoms.
Unfortunately, our shelves—including those at the grocery store—are stocked with foods that promote symptoms, even if we don’t realize it. So, for many attempting to live a healthier lifestyle by substituting food choices (low fat granola bars in place of cookies), there are still unhealthy ingredients in those foods. That power bar that you’ve been eating every morning instead of the donut you used to have? It’s more than likely packed with concentrated sweeteners and additives. Opting for a soy latte instead of the overly sweet Caramel Macchiato you always got? It still is full of sweeteners and hormonal stimulants. And diet drinks? They aren’t always the better option. Studies have already suggested that artificial sweeteners are worse for you than drinks that contain natural sugar, especially for diabetics.
So, in a world full of foods that seem to bring on more symptoms than they cure, how can we eat better? The answer is simple: eat healthy by eating natural. Consume natural foods and supplements by avoiding processed foods in boxes, bags, bottles, or cans. By eating foods that are ingredients (natural herbs, fruits, vegetables, poultry, and fish) rather than eating foods with ingredients (power bars, “healthy” cereals, blended fruit “smoothies” and juices), we are able to relieve our bodies of the stress of added chemicals, sweeteners, pesticides, and artificial ingredients.
The fact is, healing happens naturally in the human body if it receives what it truly needs. Natural foods, particularly those promoted by Weston Price or the Paleo Diet, can offer the best nutritional values without added chemicals and hormone stimulants. But most people don’t attempt to truly change their diet by eating healthier until their health is challenged. Sometimes, it takes a serious condition or health scare to really provoke a healthier lifestyle. But the good news is you don’t have to wait until then. You can eat healthier now, by eating natural and consuming natural supplements.
In addition to consuming natural foods and supplements, Nutrition Response Testing (NRT) can provide a more individualized approach, which is offered by the compassionate team at Total Health Restoration. NRT is a process of analyzing the body in order to find out the underlying causes of illness or non-optimum health. Upon an examination and some simple tests, Dr. Forman can determine if there is an underlying stress or dysfunction in a particular area of your body and begin a customized nutrition program to help you on the path to better health.