THE THREE PILLARS
First Pillar: Body System Balance
The Gut and Microbiome
Just as we exist in a complex ecosystem of mutually dependent organisms, our bodies themselves and what and how they assimilate are such a system. Balance begins from within.
Infection Management
Chronic infections often go undiagnosed and are often unrecognized. I have
a special interest in infections such as Lyme, fungal diseases, and viral disease. Creating a long term management strategy for chronic infections is key to improving health.
Immune System Strengthening
Many modern medical conditions, particularly those most perplexing to conventional doctors, can be traced back to a poorly functioning immune system. Supporting and strengthening this system while tackling chronic infection is at the core of functional medicine.
Detoxification
Detoxification is often the key to optimal health and to recovery from chronic infection or imbalance. Creating a structured but flexible plan for gentle detox can ward off potential ill effects and have you feeling better faster.
Energy Utilization
Many of us are living with some kind of nutritional deficiency. Over time, this can impair the thyroid and other systems that process nutrients and convert them to energy.
Hormone Optimization
Think of hormones as the administrators of your body's system. These chemical messengers make things happen. Fatigue, low energy and libido, depression, anxiety and weight gain can occur when hormone levels are out of balance.
Second Pillar: Evolution to Functional Medicine
Combining Spheres of Medical Knowledge
When the body is in crisis, conventional medicine can bring us relief. Knowing when to rely on conventional methods and understanding the limits is essential to success.
From Conventional to Functional
Shifting to a more functional approach requires patient engagement and active participation. I will help you take ownership of your treatment and transition gently away from reliance on conventional methods when appropriate.
Lab work and consulting
I have access to the most advanced lab tests and analysis to more definitively diagnose and identify problems and chart progress.
Health advocacy
Navigating the conventional health care system requires self-advocacy and knowledge. I can help you access the resources, second opinions and care you need.
Third Pillar: Transformative Lifestyle Practices
Food Choices and Nutrition
Eating is the single most empowering and potentially transformative practice you can cultivate for health and healing. Learn how food can be your medicine.
Environmental Factors
It may be impossible to live in a completely pristine environment, but there are many compensatory measures you can take to eliminate contact with toxins and allergens. Small changes can have lasting impacts.
Somatic Awareness
Our lives are so engaged in technology and work that it's easy to lose touch with how we feel. Learn how to listen to and honor your body's truth. I have a toolkit available for my patients.
Mindfulness and Compassion
Cultivating mindfulness and self-compassion triggers a transformation in health, awakening you to maladaptive attitudes and strategies that are holding you back.
Work/Life Balance
Managing stress, setting boundaries, recognizing limits and practicing self care is vital to wellness. Learn how to prioritize your health for a big return on investment in energy and stamina.
Movement Practices
Attitudes, unprocessed emotions and limiting beliefs become embodied in our gestures, postures and body language. This affects not just our own behavior and possibilities, but, incredibly, the response that the world has to us.