The Standing Cyclist SPOTLIGHT

FAC 2/2/11 FAC 2/2/11

Exercise as Medicine: Asthma Management, Cycling and Adventure Touring

With modern medicine promoting itself during almost every commercial break, many of us tend to forget that simple has its place within our circle of wellness. I'm not saying that pills do not save lives but it is becoming more clear everyday that pills are often incorrectly prescribed and misused. I, for one, remember a time when the words "rare" and "minor" were used to describe side-effects. More often these days we see "common" and "serious" popping up in fast talking summaries and small print. Again, not to knock modern, traditional medicine. I believe there is a place for many different methods of healing...as long as they address root causes rather than mask symptoms. Providing they add more healing power than side-effects. Case in point. I am asthmatic. Specifically, I suffer from Allergic Asthma which means environmental triggers such as chemical vapors, pet dander, and pollen can significantly impair my ability to breathe. This is usually accompanied by severe sinus pain and pressure (sinusitis). The most common treatment for this sort of discomfort includes pills and inhalers that open up the lungs. I myself have used many of these to control my allergic asthma. For me, however, the best medicine was a bit more...organic. My body and often my mind did not react well to manufactured medication. As a life long cyclist, I reenlisted exercise, in the form of cycling and later adventure cycling/touring, to rediscover my own personal wellness. Exercise became my primary source of healing, along with dietary changes, meditation and the more spiritual side of cycling, Adventure Touring. I found this combination of effort most effective for me. I not only began healing my body, but my mind and spirit as well. As my energy increased, my passion for cycling returned. This passion eventually transformed into www.TeamStandingCyclist.com and fueled my seatless "cycling for a cause" activities. Often when out on a charity bike tour, I meet individuals, parents, and children who become confused when they learn of my asthma. I hear comments like "You shouldn't be able to..." and "My doctor told me I would never..." I take the opportunity to tell my story and provide a bit of hope. I am concerned that too many children are hearing the message that asthma is the end. I am proof that it can in fact be the beginning. Some simple requests to parents and doctors. Don't write us off...before we even get started. Don't drug us up...when drugs may not be the best solution. As for us, please take the initiative to learn about your own body and mind. Are you leading a healthy lifestyle? What environmental triggers are you sensitive to? How will you avoid them? Is your fitness level where it should be? Are you eating healthy foods? Do you have food allergies? Are you managing your stress level? Are you following your passions? First address what is right in front of you and within your control, before looking off into the distance for complex solutions. Use your intuition. Often the simplest solutions are our best solutions. I suspect that will remain true, always, no matter where technology takes us. Peace.

Asthma and Allergies - What's the Connection? (everydayhealth.com)
Sudden, Surprising Asthma Diagnosis (everydayhealth.com)
Occupational Asthma (respiratorytherapycave.blogspot.com)

FAC 12/30/10 FAC 12/30/10

Larry Davis does it again!

On Sunday February 13th, 2011, StandingCyclist.com friend Larry Davis will direct and participate in a very special event. The 2011 Boca Raton Road Runners Miles for Meso 8K Run and 4K Tribute Run/Walk. This event is to be held in South Florida to raise awareness and funds for mesothelioma cancer research and treatment. Larry and his daughter Courtney have been special friends of and collaborators with StandingCyclist. Earlier in 2010, Larry was the inspiration and supporter of our "standing" bike adventure from Pittsburgh to Washington DC, to raise awareness for the ban on asbestos and funding to cure mesothelioma, the deadly disease resulting from asbestos exposure. A disease that Larry himself suffers from and battles everyday. Please join us in supporting Larry, Courtney and their amazing event this February.

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