Ask the Experts: Advice from Sacramento Region Experts
Oct 26, 2016 12:17PM ● By David Norby
Photo by Dante Fontana © Style Media Group
Q: Are there any health benefits from having a glass of wine once a week?
A: It has been proven on more than one occasion that there are health benefits from modest consumption of wine. Notice the term “modest,” as all health benefits are negated if one consumes an excessive amount. If you do consume a modest amount, however, then you may enjoy benefits like stress relief and better cholesterol via the naturally occurring antioxidants, such as resveratrol and quercetin, which are found in both red and white wine. These naturally occurring chemicals are the agents of change! They do the heavy lifting in your blood stream, converting the “bad” cholesterol to the “good” cholesterol.
—Jeff Meyers, Vice President
Terra d’Oro Winery
20680 Shenandoah School Road Plymouth
209-245-6942
Q: What are the benefits of microdermabrasion?
A: Microdermabrasion is a non-invasive, skin resurfacing procedure that exfoliates and polishes away the top layer of dead skin cells while stimulating collagen growth, to reveal healthy new skin that looks and feels smoother. Fine lines, blemishes, dull skin and sunspots can be improved, especially with regular treatments. Products—such as moisturizers, creams and lotions—are more easily absorbed and therefore more effective after microdermabrasion treatment. What’s more, you see immediate results with no downtime, pain or side effects; and there’s an improved look of scars, wrinkles and skin spots. Microdermabrasion is effective for all skin types and ethnicities.
—Jessica Spears, Director of Operations
Entourage MD Skin & Wellness
916-534-7267
4944 Sunrise Boulevard, Suite G, Fair Oaks
Q: How do qigong and tai chi help to relieve stress and tension?
A: Stress and tension can build up in the muscles and the connective tissues (fascia), as well as the nervous system. This tension can start to affect our mood, hinder our ability to focus and decrease our muscle’s range of motion, creating tightness and blockages throughout the body. Qigong and tai chi are ancient forms of exercise that coordinate breathing with movements to strengthen core muscles, allowing muscles and connective tissues to both contract and let go, releasing blocked energy that is stored in these muscles, organs and acupuncture meridians. By improving the flow of energy known as qi (pronounced as “ch-ee”) through our limbs, internal organs, muscles and brain, our minds become more enlightened, our breathing is deeper and more relaxed, and our emotions are not as intense or extreme, which leads to an overall sense of well-being and connectedness.