tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44079530372403430502024-03-12T20:31:34.529-07:00Holistic KiddosHeather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.comBlogger23125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-58278565667857518062013-01-30T09:55:00.000-08:002013-01-30T09:55:10.497-08:00How to make Spinach Risotto with Firecracker Shrimp<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-41780788745116436242012-02-26T16:46:00.002-08:002012-02-26T16:47:28.729-08:00Risotto, risotto send this dish right over...Risotto, risotto come on over... <br />I love love love feeding my family risotto. Why???<br />It tastes great, is quick to make, not hard on the budget and good for you.<br />There are so many ways to make this... but tomorrow's recipe is this..<br /><br />6 cups canned low-salt veggie broth<br />3 1/2 tablespoons organic (unsalted) butter<br />1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil<br />2 large shallots, chopped<br />2 cups arborio rice or medium-grain white rice<br />1/4 cup dry white wine<br />1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about 3 ounces)<br />2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley<br />2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice<br />4 teaspoons grated lemon peel<br /><br />*put all of the ingredients into a rice maker and press start! Serve with a mixed greens salad. <br />PS -- always serve/eat the salad first. (helps with digestion)Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-8429747272402548702011-07-17T17:13:00.001-07:002011-07-17T17:14:19.808-07:00Countdown... 10..9....8...7...6.............“Get OFF of MY chair!!!” <br />“That’s MY chair, not yours!”<br />“NOOOOOOOOOOOO it’s NOT, Avaaaaaa!!!!<br /><br />It’s a gorgeous (HOT!!) Sunday afternoon and my kids are stuck inside, attempting to burn off energy that normally takes running, jumping, climbing and swinging to get rid of. Their emotions are running “HOT” as well and they’re at each other’s wits.<br /><br />So in the midst of this yelling about who’s chair is who’s, I yell – “STOP!!!! It’s mission time.” My girls have learned about “missions” (which started w/ my nanny putting them on “missions” to get stuff done and they loved it!) and enjoy accomplishing anything… especially a “mission”.<br /><br />“Here’s the mission. I’m going to count down from 10 to 1. When I get to 1, your mission is to quickly tell your sister something you love about her. Here’s some examples – I love what you’re wearing today. You make me happy. Thank you for being such a great sister. You are fun to play with…….”<br /><br />So I counted down from 10 to 1 and they quickly whispered compliments/encouragements to each other (and also went over to Kallen—my 1 year old) and hugged him. The earlier dispute was forgotten and off they were to play again… happy and encouraged by the positive thought from the other sibling.<br /><br />Remember, kids don’t always respond to telling them to <em>“Stop fighting w/ your sister!” or “Please get along”… “BE NICE!”</em><br /><br />Life is truly a series of presentations and if you can remember to “present” something to your children that entices and intrigues them, then you’re most likely going to get the outcome you want. Grab some creativity instead of frustration and see where your presentations get you.Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-82521578842482486982011-07-03T18:21:00.000-07:002011-07-03T18:24:21.669-07:00Vitamix...... I love youI love my vitamix. LOVE my vitamix. Ok… let me slow down and start over. <br />Here’s the story.<br />We have a friend (married couple) that “oooooo” and “auhhhhh” over their Vitamix. They say it’s their “best appliance” in the kitchen… that “no one can live without a Vitamix”. <br />I don’t know about you, but emotion/passion AND a product to improve health and I’m starting to look in that direction. Not to buy (necessarily) but to educate myself.<br />So what’s the big deal w/ this blender? (by the way, tell a vitamix owner that it’s just a blender and see what they say……….. Go ahead.. try it :) )<br />I found myself looking forward to Costco’s Vitamix sale at the beginning of June and even tracking it on my calendar. I HAD to get one. <br />Then the day came and off to Costco we went. Even better than a sale, there was a demonstration w/ the Vitamix. Not only did I learn a ton (like the “goop” and seeds in cantaloupe is jam-packed w/ nutrients) but I almost bought two blenders (excuse me… “Vitamixers”) on the spot! <br />So here’s the deal. I DO use this more than any other appliance in my kitchen. I DO find myself fascinated w/ it’s abundant resume of capabilities (I just made soup in this thing a week ago and cookies last night). I do brag about my green smoothies and “Shrek juice” to everyone who will listen (hello, I’m eating 3 lbs of spinach every week! I should be bragging!). And my kids are asking for more smoothies all the time. Why? Because they taste GREAT and are full of nutrients (their smoothies always have flax seed, probiotics, TONS of spinach, cabbage, almonds, fruit, etc, etc.). And what do I do along the way? I educate, educate, educate my little holistic kiddos about their body and how to better take care of it… and why we should feed it good fuel. Not only does it taste great, but it make our bodies feel great too! Thank you Vitamix for helping us take our health to the next level! Muah! :)Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-85953866910243359642011-04-23T10:27:00.000-07:002011-04-23T10:30:24.034-07:00<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LxP7wIgNRic/TbMMiRKqLJI/AAAAAAAAAC8/fO-XdD-vUtQ/s1600/May%2B2010%2Bdownload%2B085.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LxP7wIgNRic/TbMMiRKqLJI/AAAAAAAAAC8/fO-XdD-vUtQ/s320/May%2B2010%2Bdownload%2B085.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598832544614853778" /></a><br />What are some Spring activities that I can do with my children?<br /><br />One of my new favorites is what I call “The Wellness Garden”. Combine fun activities with education. This opens up opportunities to teach your children valuable life-lessons and values while spending time with them. <br /><br />We live in a society where quick meals, microwave dishes, and drive-thrus are easily everyday occurrences. In addition, most children probably think all food comes from a building! Planting a wellness garden offers your children the chance to see where real food comes from and the value of hard work and dedication. Their efforts and patience will pay off as they watch the food grow and eventually have something to enjoy from their efforts. <br /><br />For your salad garden, have your children list all the things they would have on a salad such as carrots, cucumbers, tomatoes (our favorite salad item), spinach, and various herbs. Then shop for seeds together, having your kids pick out the packets. Pick a gorgeous day and get your hands dirty planting the seeds. Talk about the critters you find in the soil and how some are friends to your garden and should be left alone. <br /><br />Use every aspect of gardening to educate and empower your children showing them the power of the sun, the strength of the soil and how with their help, the vegetables will grow and make a beautiful salad that they were a huge part of creating. What a neat, awesome opportunity to be with your children, building their knowledge base AND contributing to their health!!Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-23109879091565415852011-04-08T15:11:00.000-07:002011-04-08T15:14:43.000-07:00I must recharge my batteries. AKA- a mommy and daddy weekend.<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rc-KI8OtQp4/TZ-Ix9QINRI/AAAAAAAAAC0/0eu4ZVlfvuE/s1600/Ben%2Band%2BHeather.bmp"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Rc-KI8OtQp4/TZ-Ix9QINRI/AAAAAAAAAC0/0eu4ZVlfvuE/s320/Ben%2Band%2BHeather.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5593339654054622482" /></a><br />So here’s the deal. Your kids are only as healthy as you are. <br />Let me repeat – <em>your kids are only as healthy as you are</em>. And if you wait to take care of YOU (your physical, emotional, social well-being) until you’re broke down, you’ve waited too long. <br /><br />So how many people have heard that “if you’re thirsty, you’re already dehydrated”? <br />If you are tired, exhausted, overweight, eating the wrong foods, short w/ your kids, cranky towards your spouse, etc, etc… YOUR batteries need some recharging. But why wait? Why not treat your body, your whole body (body, mind and spirit) lovingly all the time? Why not forecast the storm and head the other way? <br />Would we (should we?) really see the “eye of the storm” and head right into it? <br /><br />So here’s what I’m saying. You need to take time for you! You need to take time for yourself, your marriage, AND your family. <br /><br />This weekend, my sister and her husband are graciously gifting us a “mommy, daddy weekend”. They have all three of my kids for the entire weekend! Do I feel guilty that I’m not with them? Hell no! (sorry about the cuss.. .”heck” just didn’t have the same effect). Do I miss them? --> with every fiber of my being. <br /><br />But, I realize that batteries must be recharged before they are dead. Storms must be avoided. And my physical, mental and social wellbeing is of paramount importance to my children’s physical, mental, and social wellbeing. They are counting on my husband and I to act as a foundation for them to stand on. I will protect and take care of me, my husband AND my children. And part of that is taking periodic “recharge” sessions.<br /><br />So here I am, thinking non-stop of my children…. Loving them with every piece of myself and anxiously looking forward to my husband getting home from work. I love this man and I can’t wait to be lazy, have long conversations, and recharge my batteries with him. I’m certain my children will be healthier because of it.Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-7645237143172619402011-04-02T11:40:00.000-07:002011-04-02T16:28:15.022-07:00There is no other way to lead, than to lead by example.<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mwn9VgKoK0Y/TZdv8fdppwI/AAAAAAAAACc/clj-DvXRs2g/s1600/dean%2Band%2Bheather.bmp"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 236px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mwn9VgKoK0Y/TZdv8fdppwI/AAAAAAAAACc/clj-DvXRs2g/s320/dean%2Band%2Bheather.bmp" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5591060547432457986" /></a><br />While running this morning, I got to thinking about my children and the way they see me…. And how I influence them. <br /><br /><br /><br />As a young girl, I can remember idolizing my parents and wanting to be like them. Not only did I want their time, attention, and praise… but they were a sort of “safety net” for me. Always catching me when I fell and ALWAYS telling me to get right back out there and do it again. I can clearly remember my dad telling me I can do whatever I put my mind to. And when I hesitated to make the jump off the side of the swimming pool, I remember him saying… “Do your best, angel girl… .the rest doesn’t matter.”<br /><br />I know my children are looking to me for guidance. And guidance on all realms. Not only are they looking to me for time, attention, praise, and safety… but I’m in charge of guiding them and teaching them about health. (and not just b/c I’m a chiropractor… it’s because I’m their parent)<br /><br />Our children’s health (their TRUE health) is a combination of physical, chemical, and emotional stressors. Now not all stressors are bad. For example, a car accident – bad physical stressor (please get your spine checked asap). Exercise – good physical stressor. We are a combination of the things we do to our body, the things we put in our body, and the things that rest on our minds. And when I say “we”, I mean ALL of us… young and old. <br /><br />So if I’m concerned (aware) of how my children are looking at me, I better start by looking at myself. I better (to paraphrase Ghandi) “be the change I wish to see in my children”…. The change I wish to see in the world. <br /><br />I believe in a healthier community and I’m certain that it starts with our children. Or does it really start with us?<br /><br />If you want (and believe in) optimal health for YOUR children…. Optimal physical, chemical, and emotional health… then it must begin with YOU.Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-18002715267034788282011-03-18T18:47:00.000-07:002011-03-18T18:59:04.227-07:00I'm sick of this...Don't you ever have days where you're done? Down for the count and ready for a break? <br />Well, when those days come for me I approach them with the sensitivity of a mother. The same sensitivity that I give to my kids, I give to myself. <br />I don't fight my emotions or talk myself out of them. <br />I'm present and observant. I find the "why?" behind it and work on coming up with solutions... ways to tackle tomorrow with renewed gusto.<br />And if the "why?" doesn't present itself, I don't "fight" for it.<br />I'm calm. I treat (attempt) myself with the same loving attention that I would give my children. <br />I realize that the journey is where life is at and that each challenge is offered to me as an opportunity. An opportunity to remind me of what's truly important in my life. <br />Life's "little punches", may just be life's little opportunities to put you back on your feet and remind you of where you're at...... and what you're doing there.Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-89212058597407606232011-02-01T16:58:00.000-08:002011-02-01T17:01:18.430-08:00Why can’t symptoms be used as a gauge of health?Nearly 2400 Americans die of cardiovascular disease each day. That’s 1 person every 37 seconds. For many of these victims, their first sign of cardiovascular disease was the heart attack. <br /><br />Think about this for a minute. Have you ever known someone who was the picture of perfect health and suddenly died? Or a friend who’s always been healthy end up with a positive PAP smear or self breast exam? Ask someone with diabetes how long they had the disease before they knew it. Cancer, diabetes, and heart disease do not develop in just a few days and these people felt great when these ailments began. Even a small cavity doesn’t show up with immediate tooth pain, right? <br /><br />Your body is designed to be healthy. Because of this, symptoms are always late stage as the body attempts to “heal itself”. <br /><br />Why not take care of your body along the way? (and MOST importantly, let's teach our children how to take care of themselves) We often times take better care of our cars than we do our bodies. You put quality gas in, change the oil, wash the car, and keep the tires aligned, getting routine maintenance checks along the way. But with our bodies, we run on chronic stress, eat junk food, don’t exercise, have never had our spines checked (everyone should have a basic wellness check on their spine- the sooner the better) and spend hours slouched at a desk and then sitting in front of the tv. Is it any wonder that our bodies are aging so quickly? <br /><br />You can wait until symptoms develop before you decide to take care of your body… but by then, it might just be too late.Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-6825350876030209662010-12-22T06:39:00.000-08:002010-12-22T06:40:23.339-08:00Is childhood obesity dangerous?<span style="font-weight:bold;"><br />Absolutely!</span> Childhood obesity is at an all time high. It makes you wonder what’s<br />happening to the kids in our community and what can we do about it. <br /><br />Research shows that type 2 diabetes (adult onset) is closely linked to those that are<br />overweight or obese. This used to be a disease associated with adults, but its<br />prevalence has increased dramatically in children and adolescents. In 2000, 28% of<br />children age 6-19 years of age in the US were overweight (nearly tripling the totals<br />from 1980-2000). By 2004, the statistic rose to 33.6%. Overweight adolescents have<br />a 70% chance of becoming overweight, or worse yet, obese adults. That’s almost 3 of<br />every 4 children!<br /><br />Without a change, these children become overweight or obese adults who not only<br />risk getting type 2 diabetes, but various other health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, orthopedic problems, and some forms of cancer. <br /><br />Do these diseases sound familiar? So much of our health is under our control. These are lifestyle diseases, so change your lifestyle! It’s important to lead by example, as your children will take on your habits. And unhealthy habits not only affect physical health but emotional health as well. <br /><br />Start living a healthier life today and change your tomorrow!<br /><br /><br />FREE natural health reports at www.YostFamilyChiropractic.com<br />Written by Dr. Heather Yost<br />Urbandale Living Magazine – March 2010Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-12581224366071162022010-12-22T06:36:00.000-08:002010-12-22T06:38:13.471-08:00What foods should I feed my children?The link between the food kids eat and their health and well‐being is widely recognized today. And when it comes to the health and happiness of our children, I think that all parents will agree that only the very best will do.<br /><br />Nutrition can be a confusing subject and many parents wonder where to start. Since diet is crucial to the health of our children, we should not rely upon processed foods from jars and boxes. There is nothing better for your child than home‐cooked meals made from fresh ingredients. And the good news is, that cooking doesn’t have to be time‐consuming or complicated. The key is to choose your 4‐5 recipes for the week ahead of time, make a grocery list, and make meals in bulk so you can freeze extras.<br /><br />Make sure to pack your meals with fruits and vegetables. Researchers estimate that a diet filled with fruits and vegetables instead of unhealthy fats and refined foods, combined with increased exercise, could reduce the occurrence of cancer by at least 30%. Who doesn’t want those statistics for their child? The more colorful the food, the more nutritious it is. Choose spinach over regular lettuce, sweet potato over an ordinary potato, and go for the brightest peppers, tomatoes, broccoli and fruits you can find.<br /><br />Pick recipe books that help you make nutritious and easy meals. Some of my favorites are as follows: First Meals by: Annabel Karmel (too much dairy.. just alter recipes), Crazy Makers by: Carol Simontacchi, Feed Me I’m Yours by: Vicki Lansky, and Growing Healthy Families by: Holistic Moms Network.<br /><br />Remember to give your children the very best start possible and start their day with nutritious foods!<br /><br />For more information and opportunities to learn more, contact us at Yost Family Chiropractic.<br />Written by Dr. Heather Yost<br />Provided for Urbandale Living Magazine (April 2010)Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-71906210238190557422010-11-23T19:13:00.000-08:002010-11-23T19:23:55.279-08:00Is it a journey? Or a destination?"I will be happy when I've lost 10 lbs."<br />"Life will be so much easier when the kids are older."<br />"Once we're through the holiday season, things will slow down."<br />"If we just had more money......"<br />"I have no time for myself."<br /> <br />So often we find ourselves searching for the next great... the next great something. Looking towards the day when things are "easier", more routine.... different. And then we wonder why we never find ourselves "there". <br /><br />Stop, stop, stop.<br /><br />You ARE "there"... wherever "there" is. You're exactly where you're supposed to be at this exact moment in time. Are you open to learning and growing? Are you open to the lessons? So much is happening around you. So many blessings are coming your way... every moment of every day. Are you acknowledging them or letting them slide right by you??? <br /><br />Have you ever looked at a glass of water? A glass of water that was half empty? <br />Or... was it half full? Hmmmmmm........ <br />I guess that depends on your perception right? <br />If you haven't heard this, allow me to be the first to tell you that NOTHING has any meaning other than the meaning you assign to it. <br />You have power in your ability to define what's happening to you and the stressors that are coming your way. I KNOW you have stress. I know you do, b/c if you say you don't you lie about other things too. :) :)<br />It's not what's happening around you, it's how you define it. It's how you choose to experience it. <br /><br />And LIFE is happening right now. Happening in front of you!!! Or maybe you're letting it pass you by. Maybe.... just maybe you're thinking it's about the destination.<br /><br />And, maybe it is. <br />But if it's only about the destination, you're going to be missing the journey. And the journey is what gets you to the destination.Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-17240301125378078712010-10-19T04:28:00.001-07:002011-05-11T07:03:38.937-07:00WARNING: Sunscreen -- may increase your risks of cancer<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-inhS5nuPemU/TcqXNd88ZMI/AAAAAAAAADE/YC-oygjF1EE/s1600/sun.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 225px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-inhS5nuPemU/TcqXNd88ZMI/AAAAAAAAADE/YC-oygjF1EE/s320/sun.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605458943850341570" /></a><br />The more I read about sunscreen the happier I am that we avoid it at all costs. There is continual evidence that suggests the chemicals in sunscreen can cause damage to the body, even leading to some cancers. The chemicals absorb through the skin into the blood stream and later accumulate in fat stores. <br /><br />Researchers at the University of California state that the increased use of chemical sunscreens is the primary cause of the skin cancer epidemic. Other research has shown the greatest rise in melanoma is seen in countries where chemical sunscreens are heavily promoted and used (one such place being the USA). AUHHHHHHHHH. Imagine smearing this stuff on your baby’s skin and face…<br /><br />So how do you know if you’re using a sunscreen with chemicals? There are only two different types of sunscreen -- chemical and physical. <br /><br />The chemicals in sunscreen actually work by absorbing the sun's rays and contain things like Paba, Benzophenone, Oxybenzone and metal oxides (nano chemicals). Physical sunscreens work by blocking or reflecting the sun's rays and contain minerals like zinc oxide and titanium dioxide (have you seen someone with the white covered nose? That’s a physical blocking sunscreen). <br /><br />So what’s a parent supposed to do? <br />• Make sure to get your kids out in the sun so they can benefit from its healing rays and build up their body’s vitamin D supply (75% of the body’s Vit D comes from the sun).<br />• When summer begins, start gradually with sun exposure. Limit total exposure to no more than 10-20 minutes spurts of time. <br />• Watch the skin for signs of redness. If red, the skin has had it’s full share of sun time for the day. <br />• Cover up with hats, sunglasses, umbrellas and shirts if you plan to be in the sun for an extended period of time. <br />• Carefully select sunscreens that have natural, mineral based ingredients, are free from synthetic sun ingredients and are safe, non-toxic, preservative free and bio-degradable. Check out Campbells (locally), Lavera Natural Cosmetics, (www.lavera-usa.com), and Natural Health Newsletter recommends www.colorscience.com. These sunscreens are worth the extra investment!<br />• Physical barrier sunscreens are better, in terms of absorption.<br />• Take an omega 3 fatty acid (beneficial for all ages) supplement.<br />• Replace traditional fluorescent lighting with full spectrum lights in places where children spend a lot of time. (ask your schools what lighting they have)<br /><br />As long as we do not over-indulge, the sun is a fabulous thing. So get out and enjoy this spring weather. You’ll be healthier because of it!Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-85415874928930439872010-10-19T04:26:00.000-07:002010-12-11T13:08:11.508-08:00Teaching your children to loveI remember, as a young child, asking my parents to kiss each other.<br />"Kiss my mom! Kiss her!!!!! Come on!!!"<br />Then I would giggle and giggle when they finally kissed.<br /><br />That memory came flying back to me the other day when I read, "the number one way to teach your children to love is by loving their father." (and visa versa)<br /><br />This struck me in a powerful way! I strive daily to show my children the love that I have for their dad. We don't hold back hugging, kissing, rough housing, or even giving "da dip" (Ben uses his Italian accent when dipping me :) :)) in front of our kids. We want them to see us together. We want them to see us loving each other... showing and demonstrating our commitment to our marriage. <br /><br />I know that someday when my three children get into a relationship, they're going to look back on the strength they saw in our relationship and want that! <br /><br />That's why we put our marriage first. We have goals for ourselves, our careers, our family, AND our marriage. Your marriage can't be left to chance and it certainly can't be left to get whatever's "left over". It must be a priority! And YOU get to decide how you do that.<br /><br />For us, we have monthly date nights. We tell our children that we need to concentrate on each other and spend some time together. We tell them how important it is to us and to them as well. <br /><br />We also strive to get away for 1 weekend every 6 months. We swap time with my sister. She and her husband watch our kids while we get away and then we watch their kids while they get away. It's been a great way to spend more time with our niece and nephew as well as more time as a couple. Double blessing! <br /><br />So here's the point of this blog. About a year after having my twins, I remember looking at Ben and thinking... "You.. I know you....Hmmmm? You're the guy I used to spend a lot of time with right?"<br /><br />Our lives were turned upside down. AND we were loving it! But (and here's the big BUT...) I could see how having children can get you in trouble. Ben and I hadn't had a date night in months, we rarely spent time just the two of us b/c we were having so much fun with the kids, and we also shared our bed with kids so we weren't even getting time to snuggle like we used to. I could see where you could suddenly find yourself not knowing the person you married. Not knowing how to pick things up and put things back together. I also knew that marriages were only won in a prevention arena. It was time for us to make some new rules and make sure we were as proactive about our marriage as we are about our health! And our marriage stepped onto the side of the arena we would be staying on.Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-46280862757989567622010-10-14T04:02:00.000-07:002010-10-14T04:12:59.441-07:00"I'm not going to be fat anymore"At YFC, I see a lot of families. Over the last 7 years, I've seen a common trend. Moms are running hard, juggling a million things at once, and often times put themselves last. <br />I just heard a mother tell me yesterday that she told her child, "after this pregnancy your mother isn't going to be fat anymore". <br />So, this child asks her when she's going to stop being fat. <br />This mother told me that she felt like her job was to take care of her kids, not herself. <br />I also hear things like, "I'm tired of being frumpy mom". "I never have time for myself." <br />If you hear nothing else, hear this ---> <strong>you deserve to take care of yourself. You MUST take care of yourself! </strong>Give 75% to your kids and 25% to yourself. Because if you don't, your kids aren't going to get the best of you and you're going to end up resenting your kids. <br />Time is the only commodity we are all given equally. Across counties, states, continents. We are all given the same amount of time. Use it wisely and quit making excuses. <br />Taking care of my body is a priority as I want to take the best care of my children. My alarm went off at 4:45am this morning. I crawled out of bed (reluctantly.. but I did it anyway) and came downstairs to layer on the clothes and head out in 37 degree weather to run. <br />Am I a superhero? (sometimes I like to be called "She-Ra... Princess of Power".... but that's another blog)<br />No... .I'm a mom! Just like you! <br />I know what I want for my future. I want a vibrant, healthy future and I want the same for my kids. So, I lead by example. <br />Why? Because I am entitled to health and I'm entitled (required) to take care of myself. <br />Begin with the end in mind. Decide what you truly want for yourself and your health. And just get started!Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-18301111228341572232010-10-07T12:20:00.000-07:002010-10-07T14:12:33.394-07:00To cloth diaper or not... that is the question.When I was pregnant with the twins, I took a hard look at the health, environmental and economical advantages of cloth diapering over paper diapers. <br />Here's what I found....<br />42 million diapers go into a landfill EVERYDAY in the US. The US pays an average of $350 million YEARLY to deal with their disposal AND--> these diapers will still be in a landfill 300 years from now. (that means when your great, great, great, great, great, great grandchildren start diapering their children your STINKY diapers will still be hanging out somewhere)<br />The feces in landfills contaminates our water supply. (are you still drinking tap water?)<br />I also found out that the chemicals in paper diapers can rapidly absorb into the babies skin. I had serious concerns about dioxin. Dioxin in various forms has been shown to cause cancer, birth defects, liver damage, and skin diseases. <br />Paper diapers don't breath, cloth diapers DO allowing for healthier skin and less rashes.<br />Cloth diapered babies potty train on average an ENTIRE year earlier than paper diapered. AND the average paper diapered baby will go through 8,000-10,000 diapers before potty training. <br />And cloth diapering can save you 2000-5000 dollars!!!!! <br />Do I have your attention yet? <br />And let me be the first to tell you, that cloth diapering is easy! It's not gross or time-consuming like so many people think. <br />Even my husband is a fan! (and this is the guy who practically cried when I told him I wanted to cloth diaper)<br />So, when faced with cloth diapering or not, the choice was easy.... and we've never looked back!Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-90800919748640117742010-09-28T14:09:00.000-07:002010-09-29T10:15:41.977-07:00When do you start chiropractic care?I often hear people ask, "When should you start chiropractic care?"<br /><br />I think people worry that once you start, you have to go for the rest of your life. Almost worrying that you could in some way become "addicted" to chiropractic... or even set yourself up to "need an adjustment". <br /><br />I understand where people are coming from, as I've found myself asking the same question from other healthcare professionals, such as my dentist. "When is the best time to get my kid's teeth checked?" To which my dentist replied, "As soon as possible!" That made sense to me as I know the "war against cavities" can only (truly) be won in a prevention arena. I also realized that one checkup with the dentist didn't guarantee my children a life without cavities. I take them in every 6 months and then daily work on prevention. Prevention of tooth decay! <br /><br />The bones in your mouth are important! But let's not forget about the bones in your spine. If you want to win the "war against decay" (and preventing problems in the future), let's start getting our children checked as early as possible! I recommend getting them checked right after birth, and when they learn to sit, crawl, stand, walk and run. Mine were checked at only a couple hours old. Why? Because I didn't want to wait until aches, pain, or symptoms of any sort arose from the problem. IF there's something there, I wanted to know about! <br /><br />All three of my children get checked a minimum of one time a month. We add extra visits around colds and flus (research states that an adjustment boosts the immune system 200-400%!) and around tumbles or falls. I get them adjusted because I know it helps their body function better and gives them an advantage. <br /><br />So when should you start chiropractic care? I guess as soon as you want to start benefiting from care.Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-19441504660936637672010-09-17T08:00:00.000-07:002010-09-17T08:01:28.482-07:00Natural Solutions to AllergiesAllergy season is here again! 1 in 4 kids have allergies and for those families that are suffering, it can be miserable! 2 million school days are lost because of allergy symptoms. Even when attending school, the child may be limited in their physical activities and/or concentration due to allergies.<br /><br />The good news is that safe and effective natural options exist! Holistic approaches can help to address not only the symptoms but the underlying susceptibility to allergic reactions as well. <br /><br />Here you’ll find some of our favorite recommendations for allergy sufferers. <br /><br />o Diet -- Removal of wheat, dairy, artificial coloring and high fructose corn syrup<br />o Stabilize blood sugar – balance out protein and carbohydrates, especially in the mornings<br />o Herbs –Echinacea, Nettles<br />o Essential oils – roman chamomile, lavender, geranium, tea tree, lemon<br />o Lymphatic massage (see demo on facebook), 6 drops into bathtub, 2 drops into lotion, use in a diffuser<br />o Multi-Vitamin, Multi-Mineral<br />o Probiotics<br />o Omega 3 Fatty Acids<br />o Water/ hydration, warm fluids/teas<br />o Neti pot – non-iodized salt<br />o Yoga postures, stretching<br />o Chiropractic Care!<br /><br /> How does Chiropractic care help allergies? By releasing stress on the nervous system, chiropractic permits the immune system to function more effectively - something all allergy sufferers need! With Chiropractic care, your body will work more effectively to neutralize the allergy-causing chemicals in your environment.Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-67126309280479891722010-09-13T18:37:00.001-07:002010-10-20T10:58:55.912-07:00We love smoothies in this house!!!!Our family loves making smoothies and the girls love helping!<br /><br />If you want a simple, nutritious snack for your kids....listen up! And "spice it up". <br /><br />Ok you're going to need a magic bullet (kohl's) or a blender. Personally, I recommend investing in a magic bullet as you'll use it so much more than blender. And it's easier to store and clean. <br /><br />Have your kids get involved! Go to your grocer and let them pick out the assortment of frozen fruit. Use rice/almond (no soy please) milk instead of cow's milk (soon I will blog about my disgust for cow's milk) to make it creamier. <br /><br />Here's how simple it is. AND... don't forget to get your kids involved. They'll be excited and much more likely to eat it. <br /><br />Let the kids choose what fruits (frozen berries and a banana are a favorite blend in our house) and fill magic bullet 3/4 full. Add rice milk to the top of the fruit, a scoop of protein (to help even out their blood sugar levels) and then <span style="font-style:italic;">"spice it up"! </span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><br />"Spicing it up"</span> means adding a bunch of nutrients. <br /><br />I always add omega 3 oil (1/4 - 1/2 tsp) and probiotics (1/4 - 1/2 tsp) and often times add a handful of spinach (they won't ever taste it and my girls think green food is "cool"). <br /><br />You can also add their herbs or multi-vitamin into the smoothie. Whatever liquid nutrient you have can be added (hid) in smoothies! <br /><br />We love smoothies in our house. It's a great snack or <span style="font-style:italic;">"meal on the go"</span>. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">Try it... you might like it! :)</span>Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-29541789095613981302010-09-13T18:04:00.000-07:002010-09-13T18:27:03.173-07:00"Fever Phobia"I recently read an article that pegged many parents as having "fever phobia". A whopping 91% of parents feared fevers! And no wonder, since many parents believe that fevers are actually THE ILLNESS. <br />Fever is not a disease in itself... it's an important part of the healing process. <br />Let me repeat that --<strong> it's an important part of the healing process</strong>. <br />Now, don't get me wrong. It's as uncomfortable to watch my children hot and miserable as it is for any parent. But to break the fever isn't necessary and may not be wise.<br />Illness-causing "bugs" or microbes thrive at normal body temperatures. So it would make sense that the body raises the core temperature to "squash" the bugs from being able to reproduce. Not only does the fever speed up recovery from the illness but helps to "prune" the immune system so the child maturates and builds an adult immune system (typically completing around 6 yrs old). <br />And get this -- the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology states that having a fever in the first year of life reduces allergies seen later in childhood! <br />I'm actually glad that Kallen (my 8 months old) has already had a fever. A nice 103.5 that resolved easily in 24 hours with lots of mommy time, nursing, a couple of chiropractic adjustments, and 1 soaking of vinegar socks to make him a little more comfortable (put socks in vinegar and then put on their feet. Fever will drop 1 degree in 15 minutes). <br />And for those that fear the height of the fever, the body is fully equiped to protect your child and rarely ever goes above 105 or 106. No damage has been shown to occur until 108 degrees. <br />When your child is hot, quit watching the thermometer and start watching your child. <br />Be present, be there with them and release those fears.... your child's body is doing exactly what it's supposed to.Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-38401206418619365672010-09-06T17:49:00.000-07:002010-09-06T18:04:02.129-07:00The teething childIt's funny how some kids breeze right through teething (ie- my twins) while others seem to suffer (ie- my son). And for those kids that suffer, they can really suffer. <br />My son, Kallen, made 5 attempts at falling asleep tonight. And so far, he's only been sleeping for 20 minutes. (cross your fingers that he's down for the night)<br /><br />So what are we to do? My husband is a "fix-it" type of guy and sometimes wants a solution for ailments, aches, and pains. <br />I know how he feels and we have to remind ourselves that teething is simply a part of life. We can't "fix" it, but we can help to ease the transition.<br />My favorite remedies are Hyland's Teething Tablets (can purchase at Walgreen's or Azurestandard.com) and Gum-omile (can purchase at Yost Chiropractic or Campbell's). <br />These are simple but effective and definitely take the edge off. <br />Remember, that some of the best "remedies" simply lie in spending time with your child. Holding them, rocking them, reassuring them that they are safe...... and that we are here, on this journey with them.Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-11910605094098223392010-09-01T07:04:00.000-07:002010-09-01T07:14:27.185-07:00Adjusting Kids<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ai5aPbI6q8s/TH5dojh5kuI/AAAAAAAAABA/SscHvQuEoPQ/s1600/Sept+2010+015.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_ai5aPbI6q8s/TH5dojh5kuI/AAAAAAAAABA/SscHvQuEoPQ/s320/Sept+2010+015.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5511945945261642466" border="0" /></a><br />I love adjusting kids!!!! Love it! <br />I recently read a blog by a chiropractor that talked about the importance of brushing and flossing and how many dentists will tell you just to "floss the teeth you want to keep" (Circle Chiro). <br />The bones in your mouth REQUIRE you to take care of them if you want to prevent bad breath, tooth decay, gum disease, inflammation, etc. If you want healthy teeth, it's best won in a prevention arena right? <br />The bones in your spine are the same way. They REQUIRE that you take care of them if you want to prevent pain, spinal decay, arthritis, excessive aging, wear and tear, breakdown, and ultimately disease. <br /><br />Let's start educating our population that the<span style="font-weight: bold;"> same holds true for our kids</span> and their spines. They need to get checked right after birth. They need to get checked regularly and keep their spine in optimum condition -- atleast the part of their spine they want to keep.Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4407953037240343050.post-13327434688002490102010-09-01T06:40:00.000-07:002010-09-01T07:17:47.298-07:00SleepOh how I love sleep. I love it when my kids sleep. My twins are currently 3 1/2 (the 1/2 counts for alot in our house!!!) and we still have them napping. They are happier and more grounded when they've had a nap. Actually, I may be speaking for myself. I'M HAPPIER and more grounded when they've had a nap. :)<br />In truth, we need sleep for our brains and for our bodies. Sleep helps us remember what we have learned, pay attention and concentrate, solve problems and think of new ideas. For our bodies, sleep helps our muscles, bones, and skin grow as well as fix injuries. Sleep helps our body stay healthy and fight sickness. You grow, repair and rejuvenate when sleeping.<br />Think about how fast our kids are growing. Think about how much they run, jump, and play. They need to sleep.<br />Protecting your child's sleep and guiding them into good habits will help them grow stronger and be healthier.<br />This goes for parents too!!!!<br />Take care of you and lead by example!Heather Yost, DC, DACCPhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12219541669979408304noreply@blogger.com2