February Events, Syracuse CNY Healing Arts

The Art of Living with Intent Retreat: Expansion & Love
Sunday, February 5th, 1-6pm—Fee is $40 (includes dinner and Dr. Rob’s new book)
Dr. Rob Kiltz, Author, Fertility Doctor and Motivational Speaker, is excited to share that in 2012 we will be holding a monthly
Retreat offering. Joining him at these events will be Sheila Applegate, Clinical Therapist, Motivational Presenter, Author and Radio Host, and Teresa Huggins, Author, Motivational Speaker and Life Coach. February’s retreat focus will be on love, expansion, and cultivating a life of being open to possibilities. Each attendee will get a copy of Dr. Rob’s new book, The Art of Living with Intent: 60 Days of Intentions and Inspirations. This Day Retreat will end with a delicious warm dinner and time for community sharing. *Limited space available so please call us and pre-register soon. Fee to attend is $40 and will be collected at time of registration.

Kirtan Event
Sunday, February 5th, 6-8pm—$10 cash donation (suggested)
All that attend the Retreat are welcome to stay and join in this very spiritual and wonderful event. Open to the public, Retreat attendance not required. Please RSVP.

Yoga Nidra Workshop: Deep Relaxation & Guided Meditation
Saturday, February 18th 2:00-3:00pm—Fee $15
Through the use of guided imagery, breath awareness and body scanning, this extended guided relaxation will help alleviate not only muscular tensions, but also mental and emotional stress. We will access inner healing and harmony available to us all. We will travel inward to a place of self-embrace and connection to your whole being. Relax into openness, freedom and bliss. Nothing is required but to lie or sit down and listen. Yoga Nidra is foolproof! You cannot do it wrong.

Yoga & Wine Night
Sunday, February 19th 5:15-8:30pm
Yoga instructor, Trish Gallen. and local wine expert, Kirk Gibson of the Brewster Inn, are teaming up to give you an evening of a juicy yoga practice followed by a yummy wine, chocolate and cheese tasting. Trish will lead a heart opening vinyasa class from 5:15-6:30pm in the new yoga space. When the yoga practice is over, she’ll lead you upstairs where you’ll be greeted by local wine expert Kirk Gibson. He’ll educate you about some tasty wines and have some sweet and savory bites for you to try. $50 for both yoga and wine-($90 for couples), $15 for yoga practice only, $35 for Wine and cheese only. Please call and register to ensure your spot.

Natural Comfort Measured in Labor!
Saturday, February 25th 1-2:30pm—Fee is $15
Serving women in the Syracuse area since 1994, Doulas of CNY will be sharing how they support Mothers in Natural Birthing comfort. Join us to learn and experience these natural comfort ideas from experts in the field! Pre-register to ensure your spot, we have limited space. RSVP to us at 315.671.5755.

Restorative Yoga Class
Sunday’s 12:00-1:00pm—Fee is $15
Join us for this supported, conscious body/mind relaxation practice. Restorative poses offer benefits to both the body and mind, for conditions ranging from insomnia to asthma and chronic pain to depression. RSVP to reserve your spot.

Beginners Yoga Workshop Series
This was so popular in January that we are bringing it back in February – full details in our yoga brochure. Starts Feb, 12th, $80 for 4 week session, or $110 for 4 week session and unlimited yoga for the month.

Hot House Yoga with Trish Gallen
Fridays, February 3rd & 17th, 6:00-8:00pm—Fee is $15
This is our most popular class so be sure to RSVP!

Asana Clinic Series
Looking to deepen your practice?? Look no further. Join us for a four class asana clinic during the month of February. We’ll dissect various postures and flows and work on proper alignment. Great for all levels of practice and EXCELLENT for those who have already completed the beginners yoga workshop. Starts Feb. 4th, full details in our yoga brochure, $80 for 4 week session, or $110 for 4 week session and unlimited yoga classes for the month of February.

SAVE THE DATE:

Girl’s Night Out
March 7th 5:30-8:30pm - Fee is $40 *note price and time change
Join us in our newly expanded CNY Healing Arts Center for an evening to get together with your girlfriends and just have some fun. Enjoy a sampling of the following: Chair massage, Mini Facials, Acupuncture, Yoga and Zumba demo class and more. Light refreshments will be served as well. Space is limited so please *Please RSVP.

195 Intrepid Lane, Syracuse, NY 315.671.5755
www.cnyhealingarts.com

Dr. Rob to Offer Day Retreat in Syracuse on February 5th, 2012

The Art of Living with Intent Retreat: Expansion & Love
Sunday, Feb. 5th, 1-6pm
195 Intrepid Lane, CNY Healing Arts Center
$40 per person includes book and dinner
Pre-registration necessary, call 315.671.5755

New Class Schedule, Day Retreat & Kirtan at Syracuse CNY Healing Arts

It’s official, our new class schedule is here and will officially begin on February 1st! Most classes are the same plus we have some new fresh class options for you. Remember all new students at CNY Healing Arts get to attend the first class FREE!

Important note: All services and classes are slated to move over to the new CNY Healing Arts space on Monday, January 30th.

Quote of the week by Thich Nhat Hanh:
Breathing in, I know I’m breathing in.
Breathing out, I know
As the in-breath grows deep,
The out-breath grows slow.
Breathing in makes me calm.
Breathing out makes me ease.
With the in-breath, I smile.
With the out-breath, I release.
Breathing in, there is only the present moment.
Breathing out, it is a wonderful moment.

Yoga Schedule:

Mondays:
11:00-12:00pm Cardio Sculpt with Trish Gallen
4:15-5:30pm Dynamic Vinyasa Yoga with Amy Van Kirk
5:45-7:00pm Gentle Yoga (open level) with Lisa Miles
7:15-8:30pm Prenatal Yoga with Trish Gallen

Tuesdays:
9:30-10:45am Dynamic Vinyasa Yoga with Trish Gallen
4:15-5:30pm Yoga Sculpt with Trish Gallen
5:45-7:00pm Yoga for Fertility with Cynthia Powers-Broccoli
7:15-8:30pm Dynamic Vinyasa Yoga with Michele Westphal

Thursdays:
9:30-10:45am Dynamic Vinyasa Yoga with Trish Gallen
4:00-5:15pm Dynamic Vinyasa Yoga with Erin O’Toole
5:30-6:45pm Gentle Yoga with Erin O’Toole
7:00-8:15pm Slow Flow Vinyasa Yoga with Trish Gallen

Fridays:
6:00-8:00pm Hot House Yoga (Feb. 3rd & Feb. 17th)
6:00-7:00pm Zumba (Feb. 10th & 24th)

Saturdays:
8:30-9:45am Dynamic Vinyasa Yoga with Trish Gallen
10:30-11:45am Gentle Yoga (open level) with Lisa Miles/Amy Van Kirk
12:00-1:00pm Zumba

Sundays:
8:30-10am Cardio Sculpt with Trish Gallen
10:30-11:45am Dynamic Vinyasa Yoga with Cynthia Powers-Broccoli
12:00-1:00pm Restorative Yoga & Meditation Class with Michele Westphal

Upcoming Events:

Art of Living with Intent

Day Retreat Feb. 5th, 1-6pm – Join Dr. Rob, Sheila Applegate and Teresa Huggins to learn how to focus on love, expansion and cultivating a life of being open to possibilities. All attendees will receive a copy of Dr. Rob’s new book, Art of Living with Intent. Retreat includes a delicious warm dinner and time for sharing and building community. Held in our new yoga studio. Fee is $40, which includes the dinner and a copy of Dr. Rob’s new book! *Pre-register at 315.671.5755!

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Kirtan with The Now at CNY Healing Arts

If you missed our first Kirtan event ever in January, then no worries…. Come to the next one on Feb. 5th! Held in the yoga studio in the new space from 6-8pm. $10 cash donation suggested. Please call to register at 315.671.5755.

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Get your Yoga on!

Back by popular demand… Beginners Yoga Workshop Series, taught by Trish Gallen, will take place for 4 Sundays in a row beginning February 12th, 2012, from 1:00-3:00pm. Cost is $80 and if you wish to also enjoy unlimited yoga classes during the month pay $110 instead. Call today 315.671.5755 to enjoy this great deal, spaces will fill up fast! Additionally, we have the next step in your yogic learning… Asana Clinic Series begins February 4th, same price as the Beginners Workshop – Looking to deepen your practice?? Look no further. Join us for a four class asana clinic during the month of February. We’ll dissect various postures and flows and work on proper alignment. We’ll chat about the benefits of each posture and ways to modify it to make it easier or more challenging.

CNY Healing Arts Yoga in Syracuse, Rochester and Latham, NY

How to Survive Your First Yoga Class

Just the thought of attending your very first yoga class may strike fear in your heart.  Here are some suggestions, combined with yoga etiquette, to help you transition smoothly through your first few classes.

• Bring a yoga mat (sometimes called a sticky mat) to class.  Most studios provide or rent mats but it is nice to have your own.  If purchasing a mat, make certain it is designed specifically for yoga and not an exercise or pilates mat.  Yoga is always practiced in bare feet to establish a connection with the earth.
• Have a light snack about an hour before class (i.e. fruit and nuts, or a granola bar).  Wait at least 3-4 hours after a large meal before practicing yoga.  Your digestive system will thank you.
• Wear comfortable workout clothing.  Oversized clothing is not recommended.  It is nice to have a pair of socks or an extra layer of clothing for relaxation at the end of class.
• Refrain from wearing perfume or strongly scented moisturizers, shampoos, etc. as this can be a problem for others with allergies or sensitivities.
• Turn off your cell phone before entering a yoga studio.  Even a phone on vibrate can be very distracting to the peacefulness of the studio and especially to the yoga class.
• Arrive 10-15 minutes early.  Check in at the front desk.  Place extra items or valuables in a locker.  Leave your shoes outside the yoga room (paying respect to the space).  Take anything of value inside the room with you.
• If there is another class in session, be respectful by waiting quietly outside the room.  When the class is released, feel free to enter the room.
• Set up your mat and gather any necessary props for the class.  It is helpful for beginners to regularly use props until they become more familiar with the postures.  Try not to walk on other people’s mats.  It is their personal space.  The time before class is meant as a quiet time to rest or meditate.  If you must talk, whisper.  Put away your props at the end of class.
• If you have any health concerns that may affect your class, let the teacher know before the class begins.  This will allow the teacher to help you with modifications if necessary.
• The teacher may offer you verbal or physical adjustments.  This is not meant as a criticism but merely a guide to help you receive the most benefit from the posture.
• If the teacher offers a modification for a posture, feel free to use it, especially in the beginning until you become more familiar with the poses.  Yoga is non-competitive and people are encouraged to work at their own level of ability.  Respect your body’s limitations.  Feel free to rest at any time if your body needs a break.
• Avoid leaving class early. If you do need to leave early, kindly let the teacher know before class and do so before relaxation begins.
• If you should arrive a little late and class has already begun, don’t panic.  Most teachers will allow you to enter the room.  Check with the front desk if unsure of the studio’s policy.  If the class is quiet (perhaps in a centering), enter and sit down toward the back of the room or wherever you can be the least distracting to others.  Wait until centering is over.  When the class has begun to get underway, feel free to roll out your mat and join the class.
• At the end of class (or the beginning) the teacher may acknowledge everyone with “Namaste”.   This gesture is performed by bringing hands to prayer position at heart center and lightly bowing the head forward.  A simple translation of Namaste is:  the spirit within me acknowledges and honors the spirit within you.

Each time you attend a yoga class, you will become more and more comfortable with the setting and the routine.  The most important thing is to relax and enjoy your class.   Congratulations for embarking upon such a fabulous journey!

Namaste,

Linda Hill, Certified Yoga Instructor
CNY Healing Arts Center
Latham, NY
518.724.5750

August 2010 Workshops at CNY Healing Arts Centers

This month at CNY Healing Arts Centers – all locations – we will focus on yoga for fertility as well as other modes of relaxation. We have several workshops and classes that will help you to do just this. Please contact the center nearest you to inquire about our services or events. Click here for contact information. To read more about Yoga for Fertility  click here.

Yoga Class Schedules – click here
Yoga is a wonderful way to create better balance in your life. Experience Yoga, join us for a class today.

Syracuse CNY Healing Arts Center

Going from “What Now?” to “WOW!” – Saturday, August 7th, 1-4:30pm
Join us for an experiential meditation workshop with Lynne Potteiger. This workshop includes two guided meditations, discussion and instructions on how to use a focus wheel for helping you create the life you desire. Cost to attend is $25.
*RSVP to CNY Healing Arts at 315.671.5755

Yoga for Fertility Workshop – Saturday, August 14th, 1-3pm
Please join Cynthia Powers-Broccoli for this Yoga for Fertility Class that is designed for women and/or couples who are trying to conceive, either naturally or through assisted reproductive technology. Yoga for Fertility uses specific yoga practices to help stimulate and tone the reproductive system. Another incredible benefit of yoga is that it helps reduce stress, anxiety, and depression. In a recent Harvard-based study, women participating in a yoga and relaxation program nearly tripled their chances of achieving pregnancy. No cost to attend. *RSVP to CNY Healing Arts at 315.671.5755

Latham CNY Healing Arts Center

Partner Yoga for Fertility Workshop – Thursday, August 12th, 7:45-8:45pm
Join Linda Hill for this workshop specifically for couples on the journey toward fertility. Attend this rejuvenating workshop to connect physically and emotionally with your partner. The fertility journey has a huge impact on both partners and this workshop offers couples a wonderful opportunity to decompress and revitalize together. No yoga experience necessary. This is a complimentary class. *RSVP to CNY Healing Arts at 518-724-5750

Maya Abdominal Workshop – Thursday, August 26th 6pm-7:30pm
Join Kristen Crumb, Licensed Massage Therapist for an informative evening about the Maya Abdominal Massage Technique. This technique is beneficial for everyone. We will discuss the following topics: What is the Maya Abdominal Technique? Where did this originate from? And What are the benefits? Please join us to learn more about this new technique that is being offered and how it can enhance your life. This workshop is complimentary from Dr. Kiltz.
*Please RSVP to CNY Healing Arts at 518-724-5750.

Rochester CNY Healing Arts Center

Yoga for Fertility Class & Circle of Hope Support Group – Thursday’s 6-8pm
Please join Erin for this Yoga for Fertility Class that is designed for women or couples who are trying to conceive, either naturally or through assisted reproductive technology. Yoga for Fertility Class will begin promptly at 6pm, and the second hour will be dedicated to sharing each other’s stories, listening and supporting one another. It is up to your discretion to attend both or one or the other. *Please note that we will be combining Yoga for Fertility and Circle of Hope Support Group weekly. This will replace the Circle of Hope Support Meeting that was held once a month.

Meditation Workshop – Sunday, August 15th, 12-2pm
Pre-registration fee is $20 Come join Julie Cramer, Life Mastery Coach, Intuitive and Energetic Healer in a healing vortex where your extraneous cares, worries, stimulations and demands of modern daily life will melt away. We will utilize a combination of guided meditation, hands on energy work and a ceremonial letting go of what is no longer serving you in your life. From this place, your natural state of wholeness and inner wisdom can step forward and better guide you. *Fee is $20. *RSVP to rochregister@cnyhealingarts.com

Laser Hair Removal Special

CNY Healing Arts Center in Syracuse, NY is currently offering 50% off Laser Hair Removal so please call 315.671.5755 to book your appointment today. This offer will only last for a limited time.

Nutrition and Wellness Offerings for July 2010

This month at CNY Healing Arts Centers – all locations – we will focus on nutrition and wellness. We have several workshops and classes that will help you to do just this. Please contact the center nearest you to inquire about our services or events. Click here for contact information. To read about how Nutrition for Fertility can help click here.

Yoga Class Schedules – click here
Yoga is a wonderful way to create better balance in your life. Experience Yoga, join us for a class today.

SYRACUSE:

Nutrition for Fertility Workshop – July 17th 1:30-3:00pm
Join Heather Neely, RD for a workshop on eating right for fertility. We will discuss how a healthy diet can help increase your chances for pregnancy. Topics include: foods to add or limit in your diet, key nutrients you should be getting now, food and it’s affect your hormones, and getting to or maintaining a healthy weight. There will be a question and answer session. We will meet in the Yoga Studio at CNY Healing Arts. No cost to attend. Please RSVP to CNY Healing Arts Center at 315-671-5755.

Yoga for Fertility Classes – Tuesdays, 5:30-7:00pm
Join Cynthia for this Yoga for Fertility Class that is designed for women or couples who are trying to conceive. Yoga for Fertility uses specific yoga practices to help stimulate and tone the reproductive system. *RSVP to CNY Healing Arts Center at 315.671.5755.

Meditation Classes – Wednesdays, 5:45-7:00pm
Stress melts away when we quiet the mind and meditate. This is very important in life and especially during your journey toward fertility. *RSVP to CNY Healing Arts at 315.671.5755

LATHAM:

Partner Meditation with Samantha Rossi – Thursday, July 15th, 7:45-8:45pm
In this workshop designed for couples, you will learn meditation techniques for reducing stresses (communication, responsibilities, romance, etc.) commonly found in a relationship, as well as heightening your appreciation of your partner. Please dress comfortably. Both partners are encouraged to attend. No cost to attend. Please RSVP to CNY Healing Arts at (518) 724-5750

Healthy Choices- Eating Well to Support Vitality &Fertility – Saturday July 24th, 10am-12pm
This workshop will be presented by CNY Licensed Acupuncturist and Herbalist Rebecca Rice MS, L.Ac. Explore ways that healthy eating can impact your general health and support fertility. Participants will learn how Chinese medicine interprets infertility and how to manage it with the best food choices for the body. Attendants will bring home recipes. There will also be an optional field trip to the local grocery store to further navigate the world of food. Cost $15.
Please RSVP to CNY Healing Arts at (518) 724-5750

Yoga for Fertility Classes – Thursdays, 5:30-6:30pm
Join Linda for this Yoga for Fertility Class that is designed for women or couples who are trying to conceive, either naturally or through assisted reproductive technology. No prior yoga experience is necessary. *RSVP to Linda at lhill@cnyhealingarts.com

ROCHESTER:

Yoga for Fertility Class & Circle of Hope Support Group – Thursday’s, 6-8pm
Please join Erin for this Yoga for Fertility Class that is designed for women or couples who are trying to conceive, either naturally or through assisted reproductive technology. Yoga for fertility Class will begin promptly at 6pm and the second hour will be dedicated to sharing each other’s stories, listening and supporting one another. It is your discretion to attend both or one or the other. *Please note that we will be combining Yoga for Fertility and Circle of Hope Support Group weekly, this will replace the Circle of Hope Group Meeting that was held once a month.

Restorative Yoga Class Friday, July 9th, 6-7:30pm
Join Christa Tyson, RYT, Doula for a Restorative Yoga class. We will use bolsters and blankets to position body over props to melt into the poses for a deeper relaxation. Fee is $16 and class size is limited to 12 students. Please RSVP to rochregister@cnyhealingarts.com

Nutrition Workshop – Wednesday, July 28th, 7pm
This Nutrition and Weight Management Workshop will give you the tools to make better choices on your daily nutrition decisions. This includes what, when and how much to eat, which directly affects weight management, energy levels and overall emotional and physical health. Come join Jen as she shares the knowledge that has enabled her to lose 120lbs since last year. Fee is $15 per person. Please RSVP to rochregister@cnyhealingarts.com

Dr. Rob Kiltz Interviewed for Acupuncture Today Article

Jennifer Waters recently interviewed Dr. Rob Kiltz, Director of CNY Fertility and CNY Healing Arts Centers. Below is her article that will appear in the Acupuncture Today August Issue. Jennifer’s questions are noted by JW preceding them and Dr. Kiltz’s answers are noted by RK preceding them.

Prominent Fertility Doctor combines East and West
Robert J. Kiltz MD, is the Founder and Director of Central New York’s first successful IVF center – CNY Fertility Center. He is also the Owner / Director of CNY Healing Arts Center, an accomplished artist, and a motivational speaker. His practice embraces both the newest Western technologies and the oldest Eastern philosophies. It is a formula that has been successful for both his clients and himself. His passion in life is to help others reach their spiritual goals, achieve happiness and success, and live a spectacular life by creating balance and wellness within oneself.

1. JW: Now that you have established three healing art centers, can you share with us what sort of results you’ve seen with integrated practices promoting fertility?

RK: Well, I can’t tell you that we’ve done any prospective randomized controlled studies but what I’ve seen with the integrative approach of adding the eastern medicine; acupuncture, yoga, massage, herbs, even spirituality, is that I believe it helps people continue and to be persistent in their journey and feel more relaxed and at ease about themselves in the process.  There are plenty of studies out there that have shown the value of these complementary modalities in improving reproductive function and fertility and I would say, we are seeing the same thing, but my biggest view is on the ability to continue to move forward in the path with a lighter heart.

2. JW: What about fertility drugs; do you think patient should be concerned about the amount of drugs that they are using in any long-term effects?

RK: Well, there’s been conflicting data about the adverse effects of these medications.  There is some data that says that cancer has increased and I know definitely that there are some short-term side-effects such as: mood swings, headaches, enlarged ovaries, hyper-stimulation, even strokes can occur from these medications.  So, you have to be very careful about them and  really define whether it’s the first route you take or do you combine it with an integrative approach?  In general, there is nothing we have in life that isn’t of risk.  It’s a balance that I think we have to look at, help create and share with people. These other possibilities such as acupuncture, herbs, and massage can help them develop a “happy uterus” and minimize the use of drugs and surgeries.

3. JW: What about the ovaries, egg retrievals, and stimulation; how many egg retrievals are too many?

RK: That’s the other million dollar question because we don’t really know that answer.  Most people who experience fertility issues never need IVF.  Most people never even seek fertility care on the western side and I think that any of these procedures, obviously, because of the anesthesia, because of the needle stick and risk of bleeding or infection offers any risk. I think overall it’s a small risk.  It all gets back to the emotional challenges that people go through and to obtain anything, you have to keep at it.  So there this is really no doubt to say that one time, five times, ten times or twenty times is too many, but if it is not happening after six to twelve times, maybe rethinking what you are doing and thinking of some other modality is the best way to approach all of this.  Success happens to those that keep at it in life, but if you keep on doing the same thing and expecting something different, that’s when we’re most challenged.   I still don’t think it’s the actual procedure that’s the risk, but it’s the emotional challenges that create the biggest risk to people.

4. JW: I know many couples that come to see you already have children and want more  for a variety of motivations.  How do you stay neutral in this situation?  We know the planet is suffering greatly, overpopulation has been a big concern for decades.  Do you ever encourage adoption?

RK: Well, absolutely adoption is something that everyone should consider.  I believe it should be part of the options and we have just recently connected with a group from Rochester that we are partnering with to help with adoption and make it easier for people to begin that path earlier.  I think in abundance in this world and I think everything is happening exactly as the creator has created it for us. All of this tweaking and the challenges in life are just part of the growth of the universe.  It’s exactly why some people want to have no children, and other people want to have ten, it’s just all part of the nature of the universe and our own individuality.  I respect each and everyone’s decision in life.

5. JW: We see that you have a number of websites including www.mindbodysmile.com and you have trademarked The Fertile Secret,   What do you want to be most remembered for when you die?

RK: I love Eckhart Tolle and he kind of laughs at all of this and says, “None of this really matters very much, because where are we in 100 or 1000 years?” For me,  I think it’s mostly about sharing love. I think it’s simply for sharing the words of love.  I think that’s where Mind Body Smile and the Fertile Secret and what I do at CNY Fertility and CNY Healing Arts and all the things I am working to share every day, is sharing love.

6. JW: We know that integrated medicine is becoming quite popular by consumer demand, but what we don’t know is how many doctors believe that these therapies do more than just relax the patient.

RK: It’s interesting that most people believe in God, 98% of people believe in a higher power, we call that God. I go to medical conferences all the time and most doctors say, “Well we want the facts, the prospective randomized double-blinded, controlled studies and then we’ll believe it.”  So I think most western doctors don’t believe it, but what’s interesting is that when I ask the question, who believes in God? 98% of them raise their hands.  Then I ask them where are the facts for that?  It’s only a belief and belief is  the most powerful thing in the universe.  Placebo has outperformed many drugs, western drugs, which many of them are created through eastern herbs.  So, if placebo may outpace our western drugs, it’s only a belief that is a powerful thing in the universe.

7. JW: It is purported that  autism begins in-utero and that one of the elements is antibiotic use during pregnancy.  What do you think about that?

RK: I have recently read a book called The Biology of Belief by Bruce Lipton.
Things are exactly what we believe them to be and nothing else.  The possibilities of all of this are there and if we are out there sharing and helping with words, thoughts and ideas, there is tremendous value and growth in the universe.  I don’t know the cause of autism.   It absolutely starts in the womb and sharing words and music and thoughts of kindness will help all of us live a better life.  Antibiotics in and of themselves help many people and there are likely alternatives that we need to be pursuing more and more because yes, we overuse antibiotics like we overuse many things in life.

8. JW: We know that in the medical field, it’s often the nurses who are in the worst health.  Do you ever think that you will require your staff to go through the Fertile Secret program?

RK: Well, I have required my staff to say “my pleasure” and they said,  “No, we’re not going to do that; you can’t make us to that”.  They pushed me, they shoved me and I said, “Yes, you are right.  Okay, what do I need to do to be better?”  And so, I share the thoughts and ideas; at the same time, I say to them, you’re perfect, you are awesome and amazing and what can I do to be better?   We have offered yoga to all our staff. I used to walk in and say “why aren’t you doing this and why aren’t you doing that”? And I learned that  they’ll push me right back.  I say, ‘Well, thank you for teaching me that, what can I you do to be better?’  Then I say, “You know, you guys are awesome and amazing and here are some thoughts and ideas that”.

9. JW: When you say diagnose a patient with fibroids, for example, do you give them a choice of doing western or integrated medicine as possible treatment options?

RK: I look at the integrated medicine as the East and the West.
Absolutely, I share the East and the western approaches in all of this and the risk and benefits and options for all of them and allow them to make the decision that is right for them.  I absolutely believe that at the same time people should be using the eastern approach, but not neglect the values of the western approach also. Yet I am still learning and amazed in the things that we thought couldn’t be done with the mind, are being done every day.  I really think it comes back to what is in our comfort zone.  It may be customary that a traditional eastern doctor’s office pulls out some weeds for us and people are healed or when we pull out a shot and people are healed from that.  So, the healing happens within. Everyday, people come into my office sometimes and they say, “Dr. Rob shared some of this kind of Voodoo stuff.  Can I have that shot now??

Caffeine and Fertility

Studies have shown a decrease in fertility when more than 300mg of caffeine is consumed daily.  This means that a cup or two of strongly brewed dark roast coffee each day should not hurt your chances of becoming pregnant. But, there are other factors to consider and having the knowledge of how caffeine affects your body’s systems can help you decide whether a daily pick-me-up of coffee or tea is right for you or whether it should be avoided when trying to conceive.

Caffeine affects levels of certain adrenal hormones and neurotransmitters. This allows for the spike in energy after consumption but it can also trigger a dip in energy as the caffeine leaves your system, making one feel even more tired or sluggish than before having the cup of coffee or tea. Because these hormones have an effect on moods, those suffering from anxiety and depression might want to skip the associated highs and lows.

Caffeine affects the absorption of certain nutrients. The absorption of iron, vitamin A and certain B vitamins has been shown to be inhibited when caffeine is present in the system. All of these nutrients are essential for fertility and for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. The half-life of caffeine in the body is between four and six hours. Thus, caffeine should be avoided before and after taking vitamins or supplements. And, those who have a tendency toward anemia should very much consider avoiding an excess of caffeine.

Caffeine functions as a diuretic. Coffee and tea cause more frequent urination. This loss of fluid can lead to an electrolyte imbalance. It is essential when consuming caffeine to increase water intake to maintain proper fluid and electrolyte levels in the cells so that they can function properly.

Caffeine can maintain high blood sugar levels in those with diabetes or those who have insulin resistance. Clinical studies have shown an increase in the amount of time it takes for blood sugar levels to stabilize when caffeine is consumed in those who already have difficulty maintaining healthy blood sugar balance. So, those that do have this difficulty should not pair coffee with dessert.

The following table shows the approximate amount of caffeine found in different beverages and in chocolate.  Caffeine amounts can depend of several factors. With coffee, lighter roasts have more caffeine than darker roasts. Herbal teas do not generally have caffeine. There are many teas available now that are blends of herbal teas and green or white teas. These will have less caffeine per serving than a straight green or white tea. And, medicinal teas are generally just herbal and do not have caffeine.

Product and Approximate Amount of Caffeine per serving
(8oz, unless otherwise noted)

• Coffee = 115 mg
• Espresso = 100 mg per 2 ounce serving
• Black Tea = 40 mg
• Green Tea = 20 mg
• White Tea = 15 mg
• Cola = 30 mg
• Commercial Energy Drink = 80 mg per can
• Dark Chocolate = >5 mg per ounce
• Milk Chocolate = <5 mg per ounce

Lastly, coffee, tea and chocolate all have healthful properties as well. As with anything, balance and moderation is the key. You can easily glean the antioxidant benefits of a cup of green tea without overdoing the caffeine. If you enjoy coffee for coffee’s sake but do not want the effects of the caffeine, you can choose a decaffeinated brew that uses the Swiss water method versus a chemical decaffeination process. And, it is best to pick organic when choosing coffees and teas to avoid chemicals used in growth and processing and allow for a healthier you and a healthier planet.

Kari Gardner, L.Ac. MSAOM, HHP
Acupuncturist and Herbalist at CNY Healing Arts, Syracuse
315.671.5755
kgardner@cnyhealingarts.com