When we think of contagious diseases, we often focus on infections that are communicable directly from one host to another: common cold and flu viruses are spread through respiratory secretions; hepatitis A is spread through oral-fecal contamination; and ringworm (a fungal infection) is spread through direct contact with an infected person or animal, or with a contaminated surface. Some contagious diseases are not directly communicable, however. They must be transmitted by way of an animal vector.

Ever feel like your immune system is working overtime? If so, you might want to give it some help by working with a massage therapist or skin care professional trained in manual lymph drainage. This mysterious sounding name refers to a technique that was invented in Europe and is widely used there. The treatment can not only boost your immunity, it can help the body detox, move congestion out of the body, and reduce swelling, especially after surgery.

"The aging of the U.S. population is one of the major public health challenges of the 21st century. With more than 70 million baby boomers in the United States poised to join the ranks of those aged 65 or older, preventing disease and injury is one of the few tools available to reduce the expected growth of healthcare and long-term care costs.”

Julie Louise Gerberding, MD, Director, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

If you look at the natural world around you, you’ll be surprised by what it can teach you about your own self-care. We can attune to the cycle of the seasons, letting that awareness bring a healthy balance of self-care measures into our lives. Spring, for example, is the season of new growth and is associated with movement, physical exercise, and activity. Summer is the time of abundance and warmth, naturally associated with nourishing food. It is also a time for connection with others through social interaction, community activities, and travel.