Essential Oils for Headaches

Essential Oils for Headaches

by Kathleen Lisson

In this podcast, I share ideas for different essential oils to use for different types of headaches. 

Listen here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsJxpfrY

How to Get the Most Out of Your Next Lymphedema Clinic Visit in San Diego

How to Get the Most Out of Your Next 

Lymphedema Clinic Visit 

by Kathleen Lisson

I found a great article online giving tips on getting the most out of your next visit to the oncologist and wanted to apply the information and tricks to visiting with the lymphedema therapist as well! Please try some of these tips!

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsISpgZo

Read the original article here: Improve Communication With Your Oncologist 9 tips for better communication, taken from guidelines devised for oncologists, by Martha Carlson:
 https://www.curetoday.com/community/martha-carlson/2017/10/improve-communication-with-your-oncologist?p=1

Watch my video here:

Breast Cancer and Inflammatory Breast Cancer Warning Signs

Breast Cancer and Inflammatory Breast Cancer Warning Signs

by Kathleen Lisson

Are you just looking for lumps in your monthly breast self-exam? I talk about the OTHER warning signs of breast cancer in this podcast. Listen here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsJICIqE

A list of Breast Cancer signs and symptoms from the CDC: https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/breast/basic_info/symptoms.htm

Here are some images of inflammatory breast cancer:

Lymphedema Side Effects

The Hidden Side Effects of Lymphedema

by Kathleen Lisson

I speak about the side effects of lymphedema. This disease of the body's lymphatic system effects far more than just creating swelling on an arm or a leg. Along with swelling come body image issues, fatigue, sleep issues, alterations of clothing and trouble finding clothing and shoes that fit, social isolation and more.

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsJrueac

I highly recommend following the Oxford Lymphoedema Practice on Facebook for more easy to understand information about Lymphedema. You are not alone in how you feel. https://www.facebook.com/oxfordOLP/

Pain Symptoms You shouldn't Ignore!

Top Gynecological Pain Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore

by Kathleen Lisson

I share information on top pain symptoms you should talk to your doctor about - abdominal pain, abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding and pain during intercourse.

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsKtZ1lw


Read the article here: http://nvscc.com/dont-stay-silent-5-symptoms-talk-gynecologic-oncologist/

Follow Lymphedema Mavens here: https://www.facebook.com/LDMavens/

Lymphatic Massage for Fibromyalgia?

Lymphatic Massage for Fibromyalgia

by Kathleen Lisson

I recently shared information on a study that found that patients with fibromyalgia  benefitted from lymphatic massage. 

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsKmx_pw

The article is here 'Lymphatic Massage, Clogged Drains and Fibromyalgia Pain' by Celeste Cooper, RN : http://www.prohealth.com/library/showarticle.cfm?libid=30864

The study is here: 

Effectiveness of different styles of massage therapy in fibromyalgia: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Authors from University of Sao Paulo, School of Medicine, Department of Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy and Speech Therapy

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25457196

More about our lymphatic system:

Manual lymphatic drainage / lymphatic massage for salivary issues - no saliva can lymphatic massage help?

Sjogrens and Parotid Lymph Node issues - 

Can lymphatic massage help saliva?

 by Kathleen Lisson

I share my experience using lymphatic massage to help clients with the autoimmune disease Sjogrens and idiopathic Parotid swelling in San Diego in this podcast. Both clients experienced having more saliva in their mouths midway through the session. The effect was temporary, though. 

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsLH8vNk

Venus Williams has Sjogrens, listen to her experience here: 

What to do when you can't sit still during meditation

Qigong and Yoga Can Help You Sit Still During Meditation

by Kathleen Lisson

I recently attended a demonstration of Qigong and learned that the movement practice is used to help the body prepare for meditation. Why do you need a warmup for a practice that is pretty much sitting still? Because some people find it difficult to sit still long enough to meditate. Learn more about Qigong and Yoga as pre-meditation practices in my podcast episode!

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsIMe_aQ

Watch Qigong for meditation:

Who is our inner critic, superego, negative animus in meditation?

Can you Make Peace with Your Inner Critic? 

by Kathleen Lisson

I'm still learning about my inner critic. I thought having a voice in my head judging me was very valuable, but it became overwhelming when I first started meditating and it could be there while I was sitting silently. Affirmations can merely mask the critic, who can judge the affirmations I am trying to say even before I say them.

Steve Chapman has found that the inner critic hates creativity. He may have a point, take a moment to consider whether it's a good idea to draw our own inner critic. Not a good idea for a million excuses, right? He has a point!

Listen to my slightly rambling podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsKw9Ry4

Steve Chapman in the inner critic:

My inner critic, a video for runners:

Real People Talk About Lymphedema

What It's Really Like to Have Lymphedema

by Kathleen Lisson

What is it like to have lymphedema, a side effect of cancer treatment that is not widely known or talked about?

Read the AP story here: http://www.sfchronicle.com/news/article/Women-manage-lymphedema-after-bouts-with-breast-12250424.php

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsKiidso

Kathy Bates shares her experience with lymphedema here: 

Using Aromatherapy for Grief and Trauma

Aromatherapy Essential Oils for Grief and Trauma

by Kathleen Lisson

I share an important tip for aromatherapists and essential oil lovers when using essential oils for offering stress reduction, peace and balance during periods of grief and trauma - use a blend instead of single essential oils. I share why in the podcast - the memories may be so overwhelming that essential oil users may have to stop using a certain oil entirely after a traumatic situation. Using a blend enables our clients to say goodbye to the blend, but still be able to use the individual oils in that blend without negative memories surfacing. 

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsJVlx9w  

I share experts opinions of top essential oils to use to help with lymphedema and stress before and after surgery in my book, Swollen, Bloated and Puffy (available on Amazon). 

Pleasure vs. Happiness

Happiness is good for our immune system, 

but don't confuse it with pleasure!

by Kathleen Lisson

In this podcast episode, I share the chemical difference between the emotions of happiness and pleasure. This is why eating cookies when I miss my husband doesn't make me happy. Dopamine is never a good replacement for serotonin. How does this play out in your life? 

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsLR6DXY

Seth's blog post: The pleasure/happiness gap http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2017/10/the-pleasurehappiness-gap.html

How Happiness Boost the Immune System (Scientific American)
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/how-happiness-boosts-the-immune-system/

Video explaining the difference between happiness and pleasure by best-selling author and UCSF endocrinologist Dr. Robert Lustig

What Causes Abdominal Bloating?

Tips for Reducing Abdominal Bloating

by Kathleen Lisson

I provide a recap of the presentation on Functional Medicine I attended at Pacific Pearl La Jolla. Board-certified Family Physician with board certification in Integrative and Holistic Medicine, Dr. Mona Ezzat-Velinov shared tips on how to diagnose abdominal bloating when routine medical tests have found nothing wrong.

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsIRO8_w

Having Crazy Feelings During Meditation?

Why Am I So Emotional During Meditation? 

by Kathleen Lisson

I sometimes feel strong emotions when I am meditating. Sometimes I am the victim or the aggressor.
The good news? Emotions last for 90 seconds if we do not fuel them. I talk about emotions and feeling body sensations in meditation in this episode of the Swollen, Bloated and Puffy podcast.

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsKJTXOI

Tara Brach speaks about emotions:

Tara Brach speaks about emotions in this video:

I am a pretty good judge - or am I?

Judgemental Thoughts During Meditation

by Kathleen Lisson

The last few years I have noticed that judgement has become a larger part of my life. Things I thought all Americans agreed upon are all of a sudden divisive issues and my Facebook acquaintances are posting their opinions, not just easily likeable photos of their families. 

Judgement is also present during my meditations. A voice inside my head tells me whether I like the meditation or whether it will be effective, whether it is "right" or "wrong." I share how I handle judgemental thoughts in this podcast.

Listen to the podcast here: 

Puffy face after a bad night's sleep? You're not alone!

Sleep and Puffy Eyes

by Kathleen Lisson

How did you sleep last night? It's written all over your face, isn't it? When I don't get enough sleep or eat too much salt, my eyes swell up because the skin is thinner around my eyes and swells up easily. I talk about different ways to reduce eye puffiness in the book, but those are just covering the symptoms. The important thing to do it to stop swelling at the source - poor sleep.

Listen to my podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsJpPG-c

Holistic Healing and Lymphedema?

Can You Treat Lymphedema Holistically?

by Kathleen Lisson

I love seeing all the positive comments and photos I see on Instagram from ladies who love my book Swollen, Bloated and Puffy! I talk about one comment in today's podcast and urge you to pick the book back up and re-read the second half for plenty of ideas on how to balance your immune system naturally and holistically. 

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsKdd2-A

Lymphedema and Isolation

Are you Feeling All Alone in Having Lymphedema?

by Kathleen Lisson

I came across a blog post that really stopped me in my tracks, Facebook poster Lymphie Strong mentioned that people with a lymphedema diagnosis often are not friends with anyone else with Lymphedema. I talk about it on my podcast and offer a solution - join a Lymphedema-focused Facebook group.

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsKSegPE

Exercise Warmup for those with a Lymphedema Diagnosis

Exercise Warmup for those 

with a Lymphedema Diagnosis

by Kathleen Lisson

As a Certified Lymphedema Therapist, I was excited to read an article on lymphedema in the ACE personal trainer magazine! Exercise is a great way to control lymphedema, but many personal trainers don't know enough about the condition to help their clients confidently. I mention some of the warmup exercises author Daniel J. Green recommends in the article 'LYMPHEDEMA: HELP YOUR CLIENTS MANAGE THIS COMMON SIDE EFFECT OF CANCER TREATMENTS' on my podcast. 

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsKS3z9A

Link to the ACE fitness article I mention here: https://www.acefitness.org/certifiedarticle/6533/lymphedema-help-your-clients-manage-this-common-side-effect-of-cancer-treatments

Here is a more in-depth explanation of exercise and lymphedema from Lymphatic Education and Research Network.

Swollen Legs and Puffy Ankles? It could be your desk!

Tips to reduce swelling in legs and ankles - 

Ergonomics and your Desk Chair

by Kathleen Lisson

I saw this twice in the past week so I'm sharing it with you - the concept that how and where you SIT can affect swelling in your legs and ankles. 

Physical Therapists Bob Schrupp and Brad Heineck have an excellent video that shows how the height of your chair can affect the lymphatic drainage of your legs - watch closely the part at the three minute mark where they use a stick to check if the hips are higher than the knees when sitting in an office chair. This also applies to chairs at home. 

As a short person, my feet can dangle when I'm sitting in chairs that are too large for my 5 foot 2 frame. If this happens to you, try Bob and Brad's tip of using a stool for your feet or look into whether a petite office chair is right for you. If you have lymphedema or swelling in your legs or ankles, a under desk set of pedals, elliptical or stepper machine can help move the joints and lymph.  

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsJHCD2E

Watch Bob and Brad's video here:

I'm not sick like THOSE People!

Nobody Wants the Cancer Special

by Kathleen Lisson

My clients may need extra help, but they really just want to go to a 'normal' gym. Ladies with lymphedema after breast cancer detest having to wear ugly compression garments that make them look and feel old. I have a skin cancer history, but I won't wear those SPF 1 Zillion face covers, even though I had skin cancer on my face at 41.

Why?

We just want to be treated normally. We want to feel pretty and not be reminded of how sick we were or sick we still are. If we're having a good day, why throw our risk factors or diagnosis in our face?

My tip is to be aware of our feelings and try to honor our own needs while still getting the treatment we need. It's tricky, but better than skipping a workout or wearing a garment.

Listen to my podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsKRXJ9M

Here's a video I made shortly after my surgery:

Too Busy for Cancer!

Too Busy for Cancer?

by Kathleen Lisson

I was deeply moved by a piece I read today about one woman's struggle to face cancer. I was guilty of much the same thing with my skin cancer diagnosis. I didn't tell anyone except close family I even had cancer and only went public about it after my surgery was complete. 

I just didn't want to have the conversations with other people. Maybe I really didn't want to have to have the conversation with myself. I just wanted to put it behind me. 

As a Certified Lymphedema Therapist, I now help ladies who have been too busy to care for their lymphedema. They are angry that they weren't told about lymphedema and exasperated that they beat cancer but now have a life-long disease to deal with. 

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsJQCrlY

Read Elisabeth Finch's 'Redefining Brave' here:
 http://www.shondaland.com/live/body/a12244867/redefining-brave/

How to Increase Your Intuition

Tips for Increasing Intuition

by Kathleen Lisson

I am reading the book Radical Remission by Kelly A. Turner and really connected with her chapter on using your intuition to promote healing. She offers several tips to improve intuition that I have also found useful, including meditation and journaling. I share more in this podcast.

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsKQlDxg

Learn more about the research in the book from Kelly Turner here:

Tips for Taking a Quick Break at Work

How to Use Your Break Time Effectively at Work

by Kathleen Lisson

Do you take breaks at work?

Do they consist of going to the bathroom and checking social media on your phone? 

Do you feel refreshed and motivated after a break, or just more overwhelmed?

I share hacks for taking an effective break at work so you can return refreshed, not overwhelmed. 

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsKMDrq4

Check out the article I mention here: https://www.wellandgood.com/good-advice/how-to-de-stress-at-work/

Tips on Compression and Elevation after Plastic Surgery Facelift and Liposuction

Are Compression and Elevation Important 

After a Facelift or Liposuction in San Diego?

by Certified Lymphedema Therapist Kathleen Lisson

Compression and elevation are important to help our lymphatic system to reduce swelling after plastic surgery procedures like liposuction and facelifts.

After a facelift, use two pillows to elevate the head or try a wedge, which also helps heartburn issues.
After liposuction, wear the garments recommended by your plastic surgeon to help reduce edema / swelling.

The link to the podcast is here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsJgB66g

Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon Dr. Teitelbaum's answer to how long to wear compression garments after liposuction:

Using RAIN mindfulness technique after an upsetting situation

How to Stop Being so Angry

by Kathleen Lisson

In this episode of the Swollen, Bloated and Puffy podcast, I share how I didn't do so well in balancing myself after a stressful, annoying, upsetting situation.

Tara Brach is right, I do go into a trance after I experience an emotional situation especially if it is negative and affects my ego.

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsLpkz3k

Read about R.A.I.N. from Tara Brach: https://www.mindful.org/tara-brach-rain-mindfulness-practice/

Watch Tara Brach explain RAIN

How to switch between social media and real life - my 30 second hack

How to Re-Center Yourself - 30 second ritual

by Kathleen Lisson

Have you ever intended to stop looking at social media but found your hand automatically grabbing your phone to check one more site - just one more look at email, Facebook, Instagram or your texts? So do I. I have found that coming back into the 'real world' isn't automatic. I use this 30 second trick to plant myself into my surroundings. 

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsLo0lHU

Jordan Killebrew offers a slightly different technique - http://www.therapistsb.com/blog/post/5-4-3-2-1-coping-technique

Figuring out how to get ourselves back into balance is a lifelong gift

Balance and Laughter

By Kathleen Lisson

On the Swollen, Bloated and Puffy Podcast, I share something a teacher mentioned recently - When we become out of balance and figure out how to rebalance ourselves, we learn a skill we can use for the rest of our lives. I also share some research on laughter and immunity, a subject which I also cover in my book Swollen, Bloated and Puffy. 

Listen to the podcast here: https://overcast.fm/+JlsJ2q7O8

Here is an article on laughter from WebMD: http://www.webmd.com/balance/features/give-your-body-boost-with-laughter

How to Reduce Anxiety before Surgery in San Diego, Del Mar, La Jolla

How to Reduce Anxiety before Surgery 

in San Diego, Del Mar, La Jolla 

by Kathleen Lisson, CMT, CLT

Are you anxious about an upcoming surgery?
Are you concerned about using pain medication after surgery?

There is a way to reduce your anxiety and your need for pain medication after your operation in San Diego, Del Mar or La Jolla. Earlier this year, I spent an amazing weekend learning from psychotherapist, researcher and Harvard Divinity School graduate Peggy Huddleston about how to share the proven techniques from her book Prepare for Surgery, Heal Faster. 

Research conducted at Tufts University Medical Clinic, New England Baptist Hospital and Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (A Harvard Medical School teaching hospital) shows that men and women following the protocol described in Huddleston's book had:

• Less anxiety before surgery
• Used less pain medication after surgery
• Less irritability, insomnia, nightmares and loss of appetite after surgery

The entire protocol is explained in her book Prepare for Surgery, Heal Faster and she offers a relaxation CD that makes the process very simple.

If you would like a more hands-on approach, I offer one hour group workshops free of charge at locations throughout San Diego, including:

Adams Avenue Integrative Health

If you would like to book a one-on-one private workshop, I can come to your home and guide you, step by step, through the process. This is an ideal choice if you need to be discreet about your upcoming surgery or would like to gather with several of your supporters and learn about the relaxation process as a group! The fee for the one hour private session in the comfort of your home is $125, and is part of my Back to Health Program for Plastic or Orthopedic Surgery Clients. Email for more information at solacesandiego@gmail.com


News coverage about the Prepare for Surgery, Heal Faster program:

How to heal from Orthopedic Surgery:

How to heal from Cardiac Surgery

The book is available on Amazon and the CD can be downloaded onto Kindle and mp3 players. More information is here: http://healfaster.com/shop/

The Power of Observation and Having a Health Care Mentor / Support Group

Accountability for Your Healthcare Goals

by Kathleen Lisson

In this podcast I share my A-ha moment when I realized how effective having someone who cares regularly 'check in' with you really is. It has helped my clients to figure out solutions and get back on track and achieve their healthcare goals. This is really important in living with lifelong conditions like lymphedema in San Diego. 

I also share my favorite Facebook groups for people with a Lymphedema diagnosis as well as how to search Instagram for fellow #lymphies with #lymphedema to make your Instagram feed into a friendly place full of support! 

Listen to the podcast here:  https://overcast.fm/+JlsIvtNbU

Bonus! Here is a Lymphedema Book Review:

Tips for Before and After Plastic Surgery

Your Plastic Surgery Shopping List

by Kathleen Lisson

What supplements and teas to take and NOT take BEFORE Surgery: diet pills, blood thinners like asprin, Motrin or Advil, vitamin E, chromium, ginkgo, flaxseed, fish oil, echinacea, saw palmetto, feverfew, kava, St. John’s Wort and valerian. 
 https://medium.com/@Kathleenlisson/dont-be-fooled-by-these-myths-what-is-safe-and-healthy-to-do-before-plastic-surgery-20b07a8b904b

What Supplements and Teas to Buy to Recover AFTER Surgery:  Vitamin A, C, E, Copper and a multivitamin with Zinc
https://medium.com/@Kathleenlisson/how-to-recover-from-plastic-surgery-advice-from-san-diego-naturopathic-doctors-efd22efa6374

Plastic Surgery Recovery Shopping list: bandages, laxatives and some surprises! 
http://solacesandiego.blogspot.com/2017/02/plastic-surgery-recovery-shopping-list.html