St. George Health & Wellness Magazine March/April 2021

FITNESS | NUTRITION | CULTURE | HEALTH | ACTIVE AGING | MIND/BODY | ECONOMICS | FAMILY

Revere Health Offers One-Stop Medical Care at New Multi-Specialty Clinic in St. George, Utah / 16

INSIDE: Robotics-Assisted Knee and Hip Replacements / 31 Vision Restoration / 32 Matters of Life and Death / 38 Is There a Solution to Your Allergy Riddle / 62

MARCH/APRIL 2021 SaintGeorgeWellness.com

ROBOTICASSISTED KNEE REPLACEMENT

ST. GEORGE SURGICAL CENTER

St. George Surgical Center is at the forefront of robotic-assisted knee replacement surgery in Southern Utah. Thanks to advances in surgical technology, you can enjoy a faster, more comfortable recovery.

LESS RISK. FASTER RECOVERY.

DON’T PUT OFF HAVING A PROCEDURE THAT COULD IMPROVE YOUR LIFE. Call to reserve your seat at Lunch with the Doc to learn firsthand how this procedure can help you.

With our new CORI Robotic-Assisted Knee Replacement System, you’ll experience: Reduced time under anesthesia Fewer complications after surgery A quicker and more comfortable recovery

11:30 a.m. at Magleby’s Restaurant: March 26 or April 23

Call to RSVP your lunch at 435-705-7039 Gregory J Hicken, MD trained at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester Minnesota which has consistently been ranked in the top 3 centers for orthopedic surgery for the last 20 years. He has been using computer navigation and robotics for the past 20 years to increase the accuracy and safety of joint replacement surgery. He pioneered new methods of pain control and moved a majority of his joint replacement procedures to outpatient surgery centers without compromising quality of care or comfort.

George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 COMING SOON: Robotic Assisted Anterior HipSt.Replacement

3

sghw | TWA EB LL EL NO EF SCSO N T E N T S Health and Fitness

MARCH/APRIL 2021 On The Cover: Revere Health

Community and Culture

Letter from the Editor................................................ 7 Mayoral Message........................................................... 8 Trailblazer Nation: Letter from the President................................. 10 Rocky Vista University: Letter from the Dean.......................................... 12 Dixie Technical College: Letter from the President................................. 15 Are You Aligned with Your Values?............... 22

Happy Trails................................................................. 28 Preston’s Medical Waste Disposal: Protecting People and the Environment. 35 A Time of Renewal.................................................. 36 Matters of Life and Death................................... 38 Dixie State University – Opening Doors to Future Success................................................... 47 How Often Should I Have My Estate Plan Reviewed?.............................. 51 Believe in Yourself..................................................... 66

LiVe Well Center Golf Fitness Program... 18 Relieving Your Neck and Back Pain.......... 20 Oh, How Things Have Changed................ 21 Mask Health and Hygiene............................. 24 Living Fit. Living Well.................................... 25 Robotics-Assisted Knee and Hip Replacements in St. George, Utah.......... 31 Vision Restoration............................................. 32

The Blue Zones: How to Live Healthy for One Hundred Years................................ 40 Spring Back into Shape................................... 44 COVID-19 Testing and Treatment............ 46 Spring into Action............................................. 50 Are You Ready to Get Your Hiking Knees Back?...................................... 55 The FACs of Dog Allergies........................... 60 Is There a Solution to Your Allergy Riddle?............................................... 62

Featured Story Revere Health Offers One-Stop Medical Care at New Multi-Specialty Clinic........ 16

Mind and Body Mind and Body Deep Clean, 2021 Style........................................... 42 Get on a Path to Hope and Healing..... 48

A Compassionate Heart is a Courageous Heart............................ 52 Seize Each Fleeting Day....................... 56

Relationships and Family

Nutrition

Dining Guide...................................................... 26 Restaurant Journeys: Angelica’s Mexican Grill............................. 27 Out with the Old and in with the New: Tips on How to Spring Clean Your Diet... 59

The Date Night Difference................... 58 This Year is Yours.................................. 64

The opinions, beliefs, and viewpoints expressed by the various authors and forum participants in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs, and viewpoints of St. George Health & Wellness Magazine, its owners, or its staff.

The way way we we talk talk about about sexual sexual violence violence matters. used to to foster foster a a culture culture of of The matters. Our Our words words can can be be used safety, respect, and before it happens.

Oror to to show support for safety, and equality equality that thatstops stopssexual sexualviolence violence before it happens show support survivors, shutdown and practive to practice healthy for survivors, shutdownharmful harmfulmisconceptions, misconceptions, promote promote consent, and healthy communication with with children.

Our voices matter now now moremore thanthan ever.ever.

How How will you voice to communication children.

Our voices matter will use you your use yours help sexual assault, assault,harassment, harassment,and andrape? rape?

DOVE Center is our local resource for those help end sexual DOVE Center is our local resource for those who who experienced domestic abuse and sexual assault. can Please help. Please havehave experienced domestic abuse and sexual assault.

DOVEDOVE can help. reach reach out. out.

4 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | January/February 2015 5

s ghw | MWEEELTLONUERS SS T A F F

Brendan Dalley Editor

W. Jared DuPree, PhD, MBA Executive Editor

Brigit Atkin Author, Mind and Body

Erin Del Toro Author, Mind and Body

Matt Eschler, PhD, LMFT Author, Relationships and Family

Tiffany Gust, MS, CISSN Author, Health and Fitness

Lyman Hafen Author, Community and Culture

Marianne Hamilton Author, Health and Fitness

Richard Harder Author, Mind and Body

Kelly Kendall Author, Community and Culture

Bentley Murdock Author, Nutrition

Chad Olson, MS, LMFT Author, Relationships and Family

For information on advertising or other inquiries, visit our website at www.saintgeorgewellness.com, email stgeorgewellnessmagazine@gmail.com or call us at 435-319-0273.

The publisher is not responsible for the accuracy of the articles in St. George Health & Wellness Magazine. The information contained within has been obtained from sources believed to be reliable. Neither the publisher nor any other party assumes liability for loss or damage as a result of reliance on this material. Appropriate professional advice should be sought before making decisions. Outside of our staff authors, articles written by providers or professionals are invited authors and represent the opinions of that particular individual, business, group or organization. If an article is a paid advertisement, we will place the word “Advertisement” or “Advertorial” to identify it as such. ©Copyright 2021.

6 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

sghw

FROM THE EDITOR

Chris Wilson grew up in one of the most violent neighborhoods in Washington D.C. in the 1980s. He lived eight blocks from the East Capitol Library, and because he loved to read, he would walk through one of the most notoriously violent housing projects in the area once a week in order to bring home new books to read.

Reading was his escape. At night, he would wrap up in a sheet on the floor of his bedroom and be transported to China, India, or Africa through books. He would say to himself, “The world is so big. It’s full of ideas and people. I can go anywhere. I can do anything. I can be anyone I want.”

But that’s not what happened. At the age of seventeen, Chris killed a man in a confrontation and was sentenced to life in prison without parole.

Chris’s family gave up on him. His mother said, “You got life. What’s the point” And she quit taking his calls. Chris could have allowed himself to be swallowed up in the prison culture. Instead, he started reading. He read everything he could get his hands on. He read about entrepreneurs like Mark Cuban and about historical figures like Frederick Douglass, Leonardo da Vinci, and Napoleon. He read self-help books like How to Talk to Anyone.

When the other prisoners made fun of him for reading, Chris said, “I’m improving myself, inside and out. I’m improving my body and my mind. You should, too. Just because you’re in here doesn’t mean you can’t do great things.” Other prisoners joined Chris in his quest for self-improvement, and together they started a reading club, Book Crushers.

Reading books motivated Chris to live a life that had impact; he chose to live a positive experience instead of a negative one. He earned his G.E.D., expanded the prison library by hundreds of books, learned to speak five languages fluently, developed a master plan for his life, and helped others do the same I tell you Chris’s story for a reason. We are now a few months into the new year, and it’s apparent that things aren’t going to get back to what many consider to be normal. But what is normal? We really don’t have a way to actually measure what a normal life looks like. When I think of normal, I think about my own past experiences and routines; when I put myself in someone else’s shoes, I quickly realize that their experiences are much different than mine. I have learned that there is so much in life that I can’t control. The only thing that I can control is what I actually experience. So maybe, like Chris, we need to quit hoping for “normal” and start looking at what we want to experience from the events in which we find ourselves.

I think it’s important to understand that an experience is different than an event. We don’t necessarily control all the events that take place in our lives, but we can always choose what experience we want from an event. Let me give you a simple example. On a clear July day in southern Utah, two people are standing outside in the sun. Person A says, “I want to be anywhere but standing in the sunshine.” Person B says, “I love the sunshine because I need more vitamin D.” The hot day is the event over which neither person has control. Their reactions to the event are the completely different experiences they create from it.

As a whole, the pandemic event has altered our way of life—at least it has for me. We interact with each other differently, we shop differently, our children go to school differently, and our routines are different. If COVID-19 is the event, what has been your experience with it? Have you felt upset, sad, or angry? Have you been sick or known someone who has been sick? Have you lost a loved one or felt disconnected from loved ones? Have you spent positive time with your family and improved your relationships? Have you focused more time on becoming healthy? Have you used your down time to improve in some area of your life? Ultimately, each one of use chooses the way we experience the event of the pandemic.

Choosing an experience doesn’t mean that everything has to feel good and make us happy. Sometimes feeling sad or angry is exactly what’s needed. The real power is knowing that you and I choose the way we experience events, and because of that, we can change those experiences whenever we want.

My hope is that the articles in this issue will inspire you to have new experiences as you confront the events in your life.

Brendan Dalley Editor

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 7

M AYO R A L M E S S A G E

Recently, I read about a couple who lost everything in the devastating Paradise, California, wildfire. As they were looking to relocate, the wife said, “When we dropped into Utah, my husband said he could hear angels singing. He said it just felt like home.”

So many people agree: St. George feels like home. As our population grows, I want to retain that community spirit— some of us refer to it as the Dixie Spirit—that is inviting, charitable, and kind and makes everyone feel at home. That will always be a goal I strive toward in my new role as Mayor of St. George.

I served on the City Council for seven years. During that time, I learned so much from so many people, including former Mayor Jon Pike, each of the council members with whom I served, our city manager, and our department heads.

I worked hard for our residents and our city employees. I returned almost every email and phone call I received from the residents of St. George during the last seven years. I met with them in their homes or at city hall to help them find a solution to a problem they were having. I’ve been a conduit between residents and city hall.

I serve on the board of the Utah League of Cities and Towns. Why is this important? St. George sits 300 miles south of the major population center of the state—and is often an afterthought to those along the Wasatch Front. Being on the ULCT board gives St George a seat at the table to have our issues heard and addressed.

I’ve lived in St George since 1978. I’ve attended schools here. I’ve raised my family here, and now, my children are raising their families here. I’ve been a small business owner here. I’ve watched St George grow from a small town of 13,000 people to the seventh largest city in Utah—with continued growth on the horizon.

Yet, I don’t pretend to have all the answers. I will seek out the council’s opinions on the many important issues that come before us. I will also rely on our city manager, city attorney, and department heads for their advice and expertise. And I will be available to all residents and will continue to respond to everyone, personally, as much as possible.

As I look at the wall of photographs showing the previous thirty-two mayors of my city, I notice a similarity: They are all men. As the first female Mayor of St. George, I realize I have an enormous duty. I promise to try to live up to the legacy of those who came before me and move St. George forward in the best way possible.

Mayor, City of St. George

8 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

Invest in Your Quality of Life Jason W. Hendrix MD, FAAO

D. Snow Slade MD, FAAO

Nicholas Behunin MD, FAAO

Marcos Reyes MD

Sherine Smith PA-C

Cataract & LASIK Surgeon

Fellowship Trained Cataract & Glaucoma Surgeon

Fellowship Trained Cataract & Cornea Surgeon

Ophthalmologist - Cataract, Refractive, and Glaucoma Surgeon

Physicians Assistant

LASER CATARACT SURGERY

No Referral Needed Reduces Dependency on Glasses Pre-Op/Post-Op Care at St. George Eye Center

- WE’VE MOVED! Come visit us at our new location! George Magazine 617 East Riverside Drive, Suite 101, St. George, UT 84790 | (435)St.St. 628-4507 | www.STGEC.com GeorgeHealth Health&&Wellness Wellness Magazine| |March/April March/April2020 2021 419

students the careersthat of their theavery essence I Preparing am thrilled to for announce asdreams part isof landmark of Dixie State University’s mission.

Consequently, nothing motivates partnership, Dixie State University and the Greater Zion the University & community working withinto our students as Convention Tourism more Officethan have entered a strategic they achieve their educational goals. Now, to offer our students even marketing agreement that will result in Greater Zion receiving more hands-on learning and career preparation opportunities, we are more than $2 million in annual marketing exposure and working toward becoming the only open, inclusive, comprehensive, Trailblazer Stadium being renamed Greater Zion Stadium. polytechnic university in the entire United States.

Characterized by million active learning that maximizes emphasizesrevenue career The 20-year, $10 agreement preparation and hands-on opportunities, a polytechnic education generated by visitors—not Washington County taxpayers—to offers academic programs in Science, Technology, Engineering, and create a superior experience for both visitors and residents.

Math while integrating liberal arts into the educational experience.

The partnership is truly a win-win-win situation for everyone; it This is accomplished by allowing students to learn by participating promotes the area nationally, builds the community, and fuels in real-world experiences through internships, industry partnerships, economic growth by bringing more people to our gorgeous and other opportunities inside and outside of the classroom setting. corner the world.institution, we have a 100 percent acceptance As an of open-access rate andofoffer our “active learning. active life.” educational As part this effort, the Tourism Office will establish a visitor experiences to anyone seeking an education. Because of this, we are center at the stadium and information kiosks at other key well on our way to being an open university; however, being an open locations on campus to showcase visitor activities to all those institution is more involved than offering open enrollment. An open who attend events on the Dixie State campus. Additionally, education removes barriers that traditionally prevent prospective Dixie State will better be able to tell prospective students students from pursuing higher education by providing easy access what anand amazing backyard of abundant recreational to formal non-formal learningfull opportunities.

The ultimate goal opportunities they will have when they attend DSU. is to make learning accessible, abundant, and customizable to each and every student.

The timing of this partnership couldn’t be more perfect, In line with our effort to be an inclusive institution, we embrace as it will assist Dixie State during our transition to NCAA an approach to teaching that caters to our students’ learning needs Division I status through opportunities to expand athletic and preferences that are as numerous as the number of students facilities. The university plans on adding state-of-the-art press boxes and comfortable event space to the existing westside grandstands, which will help attract more athletic, and community events. As a member of the 10 entertainment, www.saintgeorgewellness.com

we enroll. We strive toConference offer access Western Athletic to those who might otherwise have starting this July, Dixie State awill hard time securing an education take on competitors based by eliminating a wide variety of everywhere from Washington, barriers related to gender, age, California, Arizona, and New socioeconomic status, race, ethnicity, Mexico to Illinois, Missouri, and neuro-cognitive-physical ability, and Texas.unique This will give Greater Zion other circumstances. access to audiences it would Finally, as a comprehensive otherwise leave institution, Dixie unreached.

State University will continue to expand the quantity Plus,quality partnering Greater and of our with undergraduate, Zion is a natural for Dixie graduate, and fit professional State University.

The programs. In addition to Tourism building Office’s vision to research “Inspire Greater. up teaching and facilities, we will put Greater. an evenLive greater focus Experience Greater.”

Richard “Biff” Williams on community engagement, offering“active learninglearning. opportunities to the aligns perfectly with Dixie State’s active President of life.”

Washington County residents who have supported us so well for approach to education. Both philosophies takeState advantage of the Dixie University so long. beautiful, world-renowned destination we live in by encouraging Becoming an open, inclusive, comprehensive, polytechnic students, visitors, and residents alike to learn by exploring. university will take a significant amount of time, effort, and Here at the University, we recognize that valuable learning dedication, but we are up to the challenge. As the only institution experiences take place inside and outside of the classroom. By that offers a comprehensive polytechnic-focused education in an takingand advantage of experiences available in Greater Zion, we open inclusive setting, we will continue to serve our community all can grow academically, actively, and holistically. well and offer educational opportunities that are second to none.

Working to fulfill this mission certainly makes every day a great day This unique, trailblazing partnership certainly will enhance to be a Trailblazer. our community for years to come. I can’t wait to see you at upcoming games, concerts, and community events in Greater Zion Stadium!

Dixie Home Rehab offers skilled home health services and is the only company in Southern Utah that specializes in therapy-driven care for orthopedic patients. We are the area’s highestrated rehab service and employ the most experienced staff in the region.

Phone: 435-628-8347 Dixie Palliative bridges the gap between

home health and hospice. We work closely with patients’ physicians to coordinate optimal and ongoing treatment for serious, chronic, and life-threatening illnesses.

Phone: 435-673-2051

Dixie Hospice provides complete and

uninterrupted home health care for as long as the patient requires.

Signs that hospice may be needed:

Weight Loss, Terminal Illness, Rapid Physical and/or Functional Decline & Disease Progression, Increased Visits to the ER, Hospital or Doctor, Increased Dependence for ADLs (at least 2), Progression of Cognitive Impairment, Progression Pressure Ulcers in Spite of Optimal Care, Recurrent UTIs & Other Infections, Recurrent Falls

Phone: 435-627-2724

Personalized care, education, and solutions for patients, family members, and caregivers all within the comfort of your home.

Our services are 100% paid by Medicare or insurance.

No out-of-pocket expenses, ever!

Locally Owned and Operated & Available 24/7 www.dixiecare.com

Coming soon to Mesquite!

702-849-0585 www.omniacares.com

ROCKY VISTA UNIVERSITY MESSAGE

The arrival of spring always feels like a fresh start, and a fresh start has never quite been so needed. Our communities

have been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic; the physical, mental, emotional, and economic hardships are unparalleled

to anything we have ever experienced. Here at Rocky Vista University, our team of staff, physicians, and medical students continue to achieve new heights in medical education and are heavily engaged locally and nationwide to meet the needs of this healthcare crisis and beyond.

If you’re like most people, the silver lining of the COVID-19 pandemic has provided a unique opportunity to slow down,

self-reflect, and prioritize your physical and mental health. As an Osteopathic physician, one of my favorite prescriptions

for physical and emotional well-being is exercise. Exercising benefits your body by giving you more energy, helping you sleep better at night, improving your mood, and strengthening your bones and muscles. It also helps reduce health risks such as diabetes, arthritis, heart disease, and more. Once

you’ve incorporated regular exercise into your lifestyle, you may find it easier to make other changes, such as staying hydrated or eating more nutritious foods.

On page forty-four of this issue, Kristen Kaiser,

Assistant Marketing Manager at Rocky Vista University, provides tips on setting realistic and specific goals for

yourself that will help you as you develop a healthy

exercise routine. This is an article that you won’t want to miss.

We are honored to be a member of this community

and look forward to being of continued service. To learn more about us, please visit our website at www.rvu.edu.

To your health,

David J. Park, DO, FAAFP, FACOFP

Vice President and Dean of the Southern Utah Campus

12 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

OBSTETRICS

GYNECOLOGY

FERTILITY

SURGICAL TREATMENTS

WOMEN’S HEALTHCARE NEW LOCATION 295 S 1470 E, Suite 200 St. George UT 84790 BEHIND TARGET & LOWE’S

Schedule your appointment today!

experts

ST. GEORGE OB/GYN GROUP CRAIG D. ASTLE, M.D. TRACY W. WINWARD, M.D. BRADY N. BENHAM, M.D. COBY T. BROWN, M.D. CAMERON B. LEAVITT, D.O. CASSANDRA R. WEIDMAN, D.O. JEFFREY G. ROGERS, M.D. PAMELA J. SORENSEN, R.N., P.A.-C BRITTANY DUCKETT, M.S.N., F.N.P.-C

435.628.1662

valleywomenshealth.com

dixietech.edu

dixie

technical college

We

14 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

practice what we teach

DIXIE TECHNICAL COLLEGE MESSAGE Spring Shots Last January, I was sitting in my office; it was cold outside—very cold. It was also cloudy. The night before, it had snowed in Dixie.

All of the mountains that surround our valley were beautiful and white. The cold of winter seemed like a metaphor for the COVID winter that had gone on far too long. In the midst of my shivering thoughts, a cheery little tune began playing through my mind from the musical Annie: “The sun will come out tomorrow.”

And so it has. The wonderful sunshine of Dixie is returning, and one tomorrow after another, it will become stronger and more intense, warming us from the inside out and reminding us that springtime is glorious and that hope springs eternal.

Besides vegetables and flowers sprouting up everywhere, the vaccine is more widely available. This may be the single most important blessing of spring this year!

Have you ever wanted, dreamed about, or yearned for shots this much? The ability to get a couple of loaded “little pokes” (as they say in the world of medicine) does so much more than protect us from COVID. These shots create a mental turning point, one that says we can finally be finished with COVID and masks and distancing and isolation and loneliness and the fear that came and settled in for far too long.

A turning point is just that: a point from which to change direction. All of the hardships of COVID don’t magically disappear in a poof, and craziness isn’t instantly replaced with “back to normal.” We’re going to have to do some serious spring cleaning. It’s time to get to work on the residual effects of the wily virus. I believe that isolation, distancing, and fear have left us with some holes in our hearts, and we’re desperate to have them filled. Each of us needs a plan; you need one that works for you, and I need one that works for me.

Without a crystal ball, I can’t say when, but I can say that as soon as possible, we must reach out to one another. Connect.

Reconnect. Assure. Reassure. As human beings, we are social. We need connection to survive, and we’ve been without it far too long.

When it’s safe, I may plan a neighborhood party and burn the masks! I’m going to hug my friends and loved ones long and tight.

I’ll hold their hands, look into their eyes, and watch their lips form words. I’ll share, listen, and have meaningful conversations. I’m going to care—right up close and personal. I’ll invite my friends to break bread together with full-fledged dinner parties. And I’ll sing—loudly! (Ok, so that would be scary.) And when the time is right, I’m going to apply for the welding program at Dixie Tech.

I’ve wanted to learn that skill for a long time now.

What have you always wanted to do? Make a plan. Do it! If that something happens to be going back to school, come see us at Dixie Tech. Learn something new. Connect to a new part of yourself as you develop new skills, make new friends, and possibly land a great new job in the process! Why not? It’s spring!

Kelle Stephens President of Dixie Technical College

dixie tech St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 15

Coordination is one of Revere Health’s core values and is a cornerstone of value-based care, a major initiative at Revere Health that emphasizes care quality, patient experience, and cost savings.

Revere Health offers one-stop medical care at new multi-specialty clinic in St. George, Utah

In December 2020, Revere Health opened its new, state-of-the-art multispecialty clinic in St. George, Utah. The 68,000-square-foot structure is the first of its kind in southern Utah and offers residents a one-stop shop for their medical needs.

16 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

“Our community has needed something like this for a long time,” said Curtis Carter, a family medicine physician and member of the Revere Health Board of Directors.

“Being able to provide so many medical services under one roof lets patients have

easy access to high-quality and costeffective care.”

The Revere Health St. George MultiSpecialty Health Center is located just north of Lin’s Market at 2900 East Mall Drive and will provide a variety of services, including family medicine, urgent care, lab, cardiology, physiatry, internal medicine, physical therapy, orthopedics, and a vein and vascular center. It’s also home to St. George’s first outpatient imaging center not affiliated with a hospital.

“Offering these lab and imaging services outside of a hospital setting means patients

can expect to pay about a third of the cost,” said Carter. “I know this will be a valuable resource to so many people.”

Revere Health Is Committed to Compassionate, Coordinated Care Revere Health first began providing care in southern Utah a decade ago. Since then, Revere Health has continued to add new services to its growing list of care options, including cancer care. Although not located in the multi-specialty health center, Revere Health Hematology-Oncology is nearby, allowing patients to access high-quality cancer care provided by a physician within the Revere Health network.

Being able to provide so many medical services under one roof lets patients have easy access to highquality and cost-effective care.

“One of the biggest benefits of having all your medical care within the same health system like Revere Health is that there is a high level of coordination where all your doctors—from family medicine to orthopedics to cardiology—really are a team,” said Carter. “They all have access to the same information, which prevents us from ordering unnecessary or duplicate tests and allows us to easily work with you and each other to make the best decisions for your health.”

One Patient’s Experience Ann Raskin is one of the many patients who has seen the positive effects of Revere Health’s team-based approach to health care. Last summer, Raskin experienced heart palpitations and visited the urgent care located at Revere Health St. George Clinic.

Carter, who was the doctor on duty for urgent care that day, performed a thorough examination and determined Raskin needed to see a cardiologist right away. Carter immediately referred Raskin to Revere Health Heart of Dixie cardiologist David Boorman and PA Nick Wittwer.

“The referring doctors at Revere have immediate access,” said Boorman. “They just make a phone call, and our practitioners are available to see them that day or the next day.”

Raskin was diagnosed with 99 percent blockage in her right coronary artery and required three stents. She also needed a fourth stent in her circumflex artery. Wittwer was able to schedule her procedure for the following morning.

“I was later told that for the severity of my condition, I had the most perfect outcome,” said Raskin. “The arteries were able to be opened completely, and I didn’t have a heart attack or any heart damage. All

of this wouldn’t have been possible had these doctors not been lined up in my life.”

Raskin’s general physician, Scott Barton, was involved in the process, too. Barton followed up with Raskin to help her get her diabetes under control to reduce the risk of further cardiovascular complications. This experience was a not so subtle wake-up call for Raskin to take control of her chronic conditions. Raskin acknowledged that the coordinated care and teamwork between these four health care providers saved her life.

“I love these doctors and their staff. They will forever be in my thoughts and prayers and in my heart—figuratively and literally,” said Raskin.

Coordination is one of Revere Health’s core values and is a cornerstone of valuebased care, a major initiative at Revere Health that emphasizes care quality, patient experience, and cost savings.

Improving Outcomes While Keeping Costs Down Revere Health is also an accountable care organization (ACO), which is a group of

care providers that work together to improve patient health outcomes, reduce health care spending, and increase patient satisfaction.

ACOs are eligible for rewards if they are able to prove that the care they provided made their patients healthier and happier while also being cost effective. However, advanced ACOs like Revere Health also have to take on financial risk if they are not able to improve care and lower costs.

“We have skin in the game,” said Revere Health Chief Operations Officer Christopher Steen. “We’ve agreed to be held accountable for the way we provide care, and if we aren’t addressing patient safety, access to services, treatment effectiveness, patient satisfaction, and cost, then we can be penalized.”

Steen also noted that over the last four years, Revere Health has been able to reduce the cost of care by an average of 8 percent each year and significantly reduce unplanned hospital admission rates through its valuebased care program. He attributes this success to the many innovative caregivers at Revere Health who are “always looking for ways to improve the patient experience.”

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 17

LiVe Well Center

s es tn i F Golf Program

18 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

By Allen Christensen, Health Promotion and Wellness Operations Manager, Intermountain LiVe Well Center-St. George Intermountain Healthcare’s LiVe Well Center in St. George, Utah, is excited to introduce their newest fitness program for golfers of all levels: the LiVe Well Golf Fitness Program.

This program is based on research from the Titleist Performance Institute in Oceanside, California. It is being offered at the St. George LiVe Well Center by Jeffrey Kennedy, a clinical About the Author exercise physiologist with nearly thirty years Allen Christensen, DHEd, of experience. Kennedy has earned a master’s MBA, CHES, is the manager degree and multiple certifications from of Health Promotion and the American College of Sports Medicine, Wellness Operations at the Cardiovascular Credentialing International, Intermountain LiVe Well Center-St.George. and the American Heart Association. In addition, he’s been certified by the Titleist Performance Institute as a level three medical evaluator since 2006.

St. George’s newest golf fitness program combines Intermountain Healthcare’s continued commitment to provide quality programming with credentialed professionals and with Titleist Performance Institute’s (TPI) belief that golf swings are as unique as the individual. The TPI philosophy does not believe that there is only one way to swing a club. Based on the Institute’s research, there are an infinite number of swing styles possible that are equally effective based on the individual’s unique body mechanics and strength.

TPI spent close to twenty years and observed 100,000 golfers of all abilities in order to study golf swings and develop the TPI Body-Swing Connection. Their research has shown there is a personal and efficient way for every player to swing based on the player’s physical abilities. Using this data, TPI discovered how a properly functioning body allows a player to swing a golf club in the most efficient way possible. Additionally, TPI has analyzed how physical limitations in a player’s body can adversely affect the golf swing and potentially lead to injury.

Using this research and training, Kennedy will work with his clients to achieve their personallycustomized, efficient golf swings to improve their games. Watching clients improve their golf games has been a passion of his for the past fourteen years. Kennedy is thrilled to bring this passion, the TPI program, and his experience to St. George and the surrounding area. “When you consider the national reputation that St. George has as a golf community and destination coupled with the profile of Intermountain Healthcare, our Golf Fitness Program is a win/win for supporting healthy lifestyles and golf enjoyment,” he stated.

The LiVe Well program incorporates a sixteen-point TPI physical assessment that includes using video and 3D motion-capture technology. This industryleading assessment identifies any physical limitations that may be causing swing inefficiencies. Additionally, video and 3D motion-capture evaluate TPI’s twelve most common swing faults and reveal the individual’s swing fingerprint, known as the “kinematic sequence.” Using the assessment results, Kennedy will then develop a golf-specific exercise regimen that promotes and improves the efficiency of that individual’s swing.

The LiVe Well Center has been improving the physical and emotional health of the community for over ten years. They are more than excited to add this service to their clients and to the community. “So many residents enjoy playing golf, and we hope many will be able to take advantage of this new service,” added Kennedy.

“This program will improve your personal game as well as help you develop an efficient swing to reduce injury and give you the strength to continue playing the game further into the future.”

If you would like to schedule a golf fitness evaluation or have questions about the Golf Fitness Program, please call the LiVe Well Center for an appointment at 435-251-3793.

DISCOVER YOUR HEALTHIEST SELF WITH US! No matter what your age or fitness level is, the St. George LiVe Well Center has a program to help you live the healthiest life possible. Our services focus on improving health and wellness through: • Physical Activity • Good Nutrition

• Better Sleep • Managing Stress

We also focus on helping athletes, at every level, perform at their best with sports medicine specialists and our sports performance labs, now including golf fitness programs.

Come discover for yourself why we are able to help so many get well, stay well, and live well!

Call or email to find out how we can help.

435-251-3793 | dx-wellness@imail.org

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 19

Relieving Your

By Casey W. Muir, MD

Neck and Back Pain Is back pain keeping you from doing things you enjoy? You’re not alone, and there are solutions. Back pain is one of the most common chronic pain issues. Chronic pain is a term to describe pain that is present for longer than six months. Many factors contribute to chronic back pain, but arthritis of the spine (spondylosis) is a very common cause.

One of the most effective treatments of arthritis of the spine, including the neck and low back, is a minimally invasive procedure called Radiofrequency Ablation. This procedure can improve arthritis back pain and get you back to doing the things you enjoy.

Conservative treatments for back pain are tried before Radiofrequency Ablation. There is a common saying in sports that “the best defense is a good offense.” Arthritis develops in everyone over time, but regular stretching and strengthening of back muscles can help support the spine to keep it as healthy as possible. There are many free online resources for spine stretches and exercises. One example found on the internet is Mayo Clinic’s “Back Exercises in 15 Minutes a Day.” For those who want guidance or are beginning to notice more significant pain, physical therapists help to find and establish individualized exercises for your needs.

About the Author Dr. Casey Muir attended the University of Nevada School of Medicine. He did his residency training in Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, where he also completed a pain medicine fellowship. He served as Chief Resident during his final year of residency. Dr. Muir is dedicated to providing compassionate care to his patients and helping them maximize their quality of life. He uses his extensive training to treat acute and chronic pain conditions. When he is not working, Dr. Muir enjoys being with his wife and three daughters. He loves being outdoors and especially enjoys golf, soccer, and snowboarding.

20 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

Pain in the neck or back that persists despite appropriate physical therapy can still have answers.

Arthritis pain in the spine commonly comes from facet (zygapophyseal) joints that are present between each of the many individual vertebrae (bones) that form the spine. There is a small nerve (the medial branch of the dorsal rami) that sends the pain signal to your brain when these small joints hurt. Many research studies have proven that by targeting these small nerves, the pain signal from arthritic joints can be stopped, relieving the pain. This is initially done with a local numbing medication that temporarily blocks that pain signal, showing how much of your pain comes from arthritic facet joints. If temporary numbing helps your pain, Radiofrequency Ablation is performed to provide lasting relief.

Radiofrequency Ablation is an outpatient procedure with light sedation. Using x-ray guidance, a special needle is placed along the small nerve that sends the pain signal from the facet joints. The tip of the needle heats up the surrounding tissue, burning the nerve that sends the signal from the arthritic joints. The nerve then can’t send the pain signal, relieving your pain. The nerve eventually grows back, generally after about twelve months. Then the procedure can be repeated if the pain returns. This procedure has a very low complication rate and no significant recovery time.

There are many causes of neck and back pain, but pain from these small joints is common and has this effective and proven treatment option.

This procedure can give the pain relief from spine arthritis to get you back to doing what you enjoy.

To schedule an appointment with Southwest Spine & Pain Center, visit the website at www.swsp.com or call 435-656-2424.

Oh, How Things Have Changed

By Jay Bartlett I sat down in front of the TV the other night and threw a tape in the VCR. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, Google it; I’ll wait…

I’m sure your first question after “How did you people live with those things?” is “Why do you still About the Author have one of those?” Fair questions, actually. I still Mountain bike veteran, have a VCR because I accumulated a collection of amateur filmmaker, and lover mountain bike movies from “the dark ages” with of long rides, Jay Bartlett has titles like Chainsmoke, Ride to the Hills, and the been riding trails in Southern Utah for over thirty years. quintessential early MTB film Tread (The Movie) Jay has over a decade of that I feel the need to revisit from time to time. experience as a bike mechanic Tread was the first full-length mountain bike movie to be shown in theaters. This would have been the midat St. George’s oldest bike shop, Bicycles Unlimited. nineties, a time before the rise of YouTube. Yes, there was actually a time before videos were easily found on demand. Look it up; I’ll wait…

Tread starred mountain bike icons Greg Herbold and Hans Rey on a road trip to ride sweet singletrack. It’s a simple enough concept, but the artistic, quality filmmaking and the endearing personalities of Greg and Hans struck a chord with riders as well as filmmakers, and a genre was born. Tread launched many a ride. Once we were able to obtain the coveted VHS tape, we nearly wore it out getting our stoke the night before a ride!

Looking back at these old films is looking at history. The sport of mountain biking has progressed and developed so much in that time span.

Take a bike from the nineties and a modern bike and set them side by side; the difference is astounding. No doubt they share many similarities, but if you look closely, you can see how time has marched on. The geometry of the frame now is designed to be confident in varying terrains.

Older bikes had a tendency to want to endo if you weren’t on your toes when tackling rocky and/or steep trails. Although new designs are not fool proof, the sickening sensation of the back wheel lifting off the ground trying to pass the front wheel is only felt when you mess up really bad! Bikes today have a very desirable trait: forgiveness. If you make a small mistake, the bike has got you. Older bikes tended to punish you for making a mistake.

Don’t look it up now... I’m almost done, but there’s a video of an amateur downhill race in Austria in 1992 that features a stairway the riders had to ride down. Keep in mind, it was a very shallow stairway and only about twenty steps long, but a lot of riders were hitting the deck trying to make it down. I have no doubt that if I was able to take the entry-level mountain bike from Bicycles Unlimited (a Trek Marlin 5) to that very staircase, I could ride down it at a pretty good clip without a worry of crashing.

Wider bars and bigger wheels are the norm now (turns out that leverage thing actually works). Better shocks and suspension design not only help in the rough going downhill, they actually help while climbing chunky stuff as well—something unheard of in the nineties. There used to be much debate about whether or not full suspension was wasting energy. Now, it saves energy.

Modern mountain bikes are amazing machines. They’re faster while being less twitchy, more planted, more comfortable, and plain impressive. The old days were just as fun, but the present-day rides are less likely to end with you having less skin than when you started!

Wow. All this talk of bikes and riding just made me drool a little. How about we watch Tread and head out for a ride!

Let’s Ride!

WE ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT CYCLING! WE COMMUTE, CYCLOCROSS, TOUR, RACE, MOUNTAIN, ROAD & TANDEM RIDE Sales • Service • Rentals • Clothing • Accessories

90 South 100 East St. George UT 84770 435-673-4492 BicyclesUnlimited.com

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 21

Are You Aligned with Your Values?

How identifying, aligning with, and living up to your personal and professional values can change your life and make you a more effective leader

By Emily Havens, Ovation Executive Community Relations Director

Are you a leader?

About the Author Emily Havens is the Executive Community Relations Director for Ovation Sienna Hills. Prior to developing her marketing career, Emily spent three years at The Spectrum and Daily News as a local journalist. Emily has garnered several awards from the Associated Press, Utah Press Association, and Nevada Press Association. In addition to her contributions to journalism and the digital marketing world, Emily is also a local nonprofit chapter president.

Even if you don’t immediately identify as such, really think about this question. Perhaps you’re the leader of a small team. Maybe others count on you to be a leader in varying social situations. You could be a leader at your local church or even a leader in your own home.

who we are in times of adversity, who we are when we have to tell someone no, who we are when no one is looking, who we are when we must own our commitments, and so much more.

What are your core values? Here are some ideas:

• An attitude of gratitude

• A resolve to be open-minded

• A desire to continuously strive for excellence

• A commitment to a healthy lifestyle

• A determination to be loyal

Your values not only provide a framework for decision making but they also reveal personal insights about the What defines the choices you core of who you are—and who you are working to become. make as a leader? The answer is Your life’s mission is your why, and your core values provide almost always a “can of worms” the how.

That’s really the point: Your core values should help you that include deep cultural and environmental influences. Don’t build up to your life’s mission. Your life mission should make worry! I’ll spare you the sociology your eyes light up when you talk about it. It should start a fire in your heart and ignite your motivational attributes. lesson.

Above all, however, you are the leader of yourself.

Most of the time, we can define our decisions based on our own core values. These core values are a collection of single words or brief phrases that guide our daily activities and interactions. They can also help us overcome immense challenges and times of hardship.

Now, ask yourself the following questions: How often are you reminding yourself of your core values? How often do you reflect on your actions and compare those to the person you are striving to be? Share your core values with others, including your partner, friend, coworker, or neighbor. Hold yourself accountable while also being vulnerable and having a worthwhile conversation about who you wish to be and what lights you up inside.

of the key reasons I chose to align myself with this company’s culture.“Integrity Above All Else” is a core value that defines

Align with your values, and I promise you will create a more meaningful and memorable life.

Companies—well, the good ones anyway—train their teams based on a set of core values. At Ovation, we define At Ovation, we stand for strong core values that define ourselves by seven core values that include integrity, a passion for the quality of people’s lives, innovation, trust, respect, everything we do. We don’t settle for anything less than focusing on service, exceeding expectations, and creating embracing change, and teamwork.

One of my core values is integrity. Coincidentally, this is exceptional, memorable moments for our residents and also the first, most important core value at Ovation and one those with whom we interact on a daily basis.

22 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

sghw |

C U LT U R E

sghw |

WELLNESS

Guaranteed Happiness.

Coming in April.

Our doors will be opening soon — and we guarantee moving here will bring you happiness.

At Ovation Sienna Hills, you’ll enjoy the convenience of a resort lifestyle within an atmosphere of total wellness. This new full-service community is designed for happiness. In fact, if you aren’t satisfied, you can get your community fee back* — happiness guaranteed!

Set within the scenic landscape of Southern Utah, Ovation Sienna Hills includes independent living in our apartment homes as well as at The Villas. Should your needs change, assisted living and memory care are just across the community in our all-inclusive campus. We offer a number of dining options, a clubhouse with events and life-enriching programs, a pickleball court, indoor pool, hot tub, yoga studio, personal trainer — it’s all here to make you happy and celebrate a life well-lived — guaranteed. *Terms and conditions apply.

Call 435-429-0000 today to reserve your spot in a place like no other.

Community Address 1525 East Ovation Place Washington, UT 84780 OvationSiennaHills.com St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 23

Mask Health and Hygiene

By Bentley Murdock

By Bentley Murdock

World-renowned microbiologist Louis Pasteur dedicated his life to studying and researching infectious, bacterial, and viral disease transmission. According to his biographer, his last words (ironically) were not about bacteria or germs. He said, “The terrain is everything.”

These simple and profound words continue to remind us that the nourishing of our “terrain” (the fertile, bedding-soil of the immune system) should always be our primary focus.

of melted plastic fibers whose tiny particulates are easily seen shedding as they’re worn throughout the day. The associated risks are obvious.

Early in 2020, reputable medical advisors in America stated that there could be “unintended consequences” associated with extended mask usage. As a Disease Reversal & Prevention Specialist, I strongly believe that wearing a mask is harmful and severely compromises the respiratory system and the overall immune system. Let me explain why.

With this in mind, here are a few specific questions to consider: If I choose to wear a mask, which type would be best? Do I wear my mask properly, and if not, why do I wear it at all? Is my mask clean, safe, and reliable? How often do I touch my mask? Am I receiving adequate oxygen to my brain and other critical organs? Is my mask compromising my own immune system and weakening my own respiratory resilience?

Viruses, bacteria, and germs will always exist, and we will continue to fight each of them—and their various mutations—year after year, with the same immune systems we’ve had all along. With this in mind, begin considering the overall state of your immune system and what can be done to fortify it.

In the past year, thousands of physicians, scientists, and specialists have come forward to alert the public about the risks and dangers associated with the prolonged use of facial coverings. In the last year, there has been a steep increase in incidents of respiratory distress and infection, bronchitis, croup, whooping cough, RSV, pertussis, strep throat, staph infection, facial rash, exhaustion, decreased mental function, anxiety, and panic attacks—especially among young children—all of which can be directly associated with the prolonged wearing of a mask.

If you’re going to be breathing through any substance or fabric all day long, it would be wise to learn what it’s made of, what it sheds, whether it cultivates additional bacterial growth, and how effective it actually is against viral and bacterial transmission to and from others.

A typical medical (blue/white) mask, and even most N95 medical masks, consist of thousands of plastic (polypropylene and/ or polyethylene) fibers, melted and sprayed into place (unlike spun, woven, or sewn fabric). When wearing this type of mask, you’re dealing with an unnatural, chemically-laden, synthetic, and toxic substance

Additionally, the majority of masks drastically tent around the bridge of the nose and cheeks and have dozens of openings in the unevenly sprayed material. Viruses are measured on a microscopic scale of 50–150 nanometers (a human hair is roughly 100,000 nanometers wide). Take that into consideration regarding the effectiveness of your particular mask, especially when worn improperly (as most are).

Tips for Mask Health and Hygiene: • Avoid cheap, synthetic, unreliable medical masks and always have your own clean option on hand.

• Find a mask (or gaiter) with mesh, woven, spun, or other sewn fabric. If two masks are required, use a thinner material and double up the fabric.

• Have multiple masks on hand to use as replacements throughout the day when they become moist.

• Wash masks regularly without chemical fabric softener or dryer sheets.

• Use a mask that facilitates the least amount of touching and fidgeting to keep it in place, such as thin fabric neck gaiters, thin ski-type neck warmers, or tightly woven scarves.

• Remove your mask and breathe deeply at every possible opportunity—when outside, while driving, and while others are clearly at a distance.

For more information about cultivating a sustainably bullet-proof and robustly resilient immune system, feel free to reach out to me personally by sending an email to Aloha@HealisticVitality.com.

24 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

Living Fit. Living Well.

Is it possible to be both fit and overweight? Reports from a recent study published in the European Heart Journal say the answer is yes. To gain knowledge on the role physical activity plays in the overall health of obese individuals, researchers assessed 43,265 adults between 1979 and 2003. Researchers used traditional body mass index (BMI) calculations to determine BMI, while body-fat percentage was measured by hydrostatic weighing or skinfold testing.

The study concluded that “those considered obese (with a BMI > 30 percent) according to BMI measurements, 5,649 (30.8 percent) were classified as metabolically healthy, while 12,829 (46.3 percent) of those considered obese based on body-fat percentage were deemed metabolically healthy.”

We often hear that muscle weighs more than fat. Regardless of what you are weighing, a pound is a pound, but two things that weigh the same can be very different in size. A pound of marshmallows is going to take up more space than a pound of steel. The same is true for muscle. A pound of fat mass is bulky, fluffy, and about the size of a grapefruit. A pound of lean muscle tissue is hard, dense, and about the size of a tangerine. Therefore, when you strength train and build lean muscle, you might not see any loss on the scale, but you swear your pants are feeling loose around your waist. So when you hear someone say that muscle weighs more than fat, you can help them understand this myth.

“The complete picture of ‘fitness’ is much more than a number on the scale or a subjective image of what ‘fit’ looks like,” explained ACE

By Tiffany K. Gust, MS, CISSN, Certified Health and Wellness Coach

Exercise Physiologist Jessica Matthews. “At the end of the day, being physically active has a much greater purpose than solely improving physical appearance. Leading a physically active lifestyle increases one’s level of fitness, which in turn also improves overall health.” Additionally, being active enhances your ability to engage in the activities of everyday life that are important to you, such as playing with your children or grandchildren, hiking and swimming while on vacation, or simply having the freedom to move throughout the day with ease.

It’s important to keep in mind To learn more that, in terms of optimizing health about your body and enhancing overall well-being, structured physical activity should be composition, visit combined with the adoption of other the LiVe Well Center healthy lifestyle habits (adequate sleep, at Intermountain increased movement throughout the Healthcare or call day, etc.) that will enable you to lead 435-251-3793. the healthiest life possible.

Fat mass (FM) is affected by sleep, stress, and nutrition, while fat free mass (FFM) is affected by exercise— particularly resistance training to build lean muscle tissue. Healthy eating and proper nutrition (consuming a diet balanced in protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats) also play a role in building muscle.

The “gold standard” for body composition is the Bod Pod, which uses Air Displacement Plethysmography (ADP). ADP uses whole body densitometry to determine lean muscle mass versus fat mass.

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 25

Dining Guide St. George

Angelica’s Mexican Grill

101 E. St. George Blvd., St. George, UT 84770 | 435-628-4399 Mexican | Vegetarian and Vegan Options | Family Friendly | $ Mon.–Thurs., 11:00 a.m.–8:30 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.; Closed Sun. Located Downtown on St. George Boulevard, Angelica’s Mexican Grill serves fresh, made from scratch authentic Mexican food. The flavor driven and nationally recognized menu provides everything and more that you would expect from a Mexican restaurant, including street tacos, Mulitas, Tortas, Sweet Carnitas, Machaca, and their famous salsa bar. Vegan and Vegetarian dishes are always available. Seating is available inside and also outside on the spacious patio. Catering & To-Go ordering available.

Benja’s Thai and Sushi

2 W. St. George Blvd. #12, St. George, UT 84770 | 435-628-9538 Thai | Sushi | $$ Mon.–Sat., 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.; Sun., 1:00 p.m.–8:00p.m.

Hungry for sushi? Hungry for Thai curries? Benja’s Thai and Sushi, in the heart of downtown at Ancestor Square, will satisfy your craving with fresh sushi, curries, noodles and a great beer and wine menu. Stop in with business colleagues, friends, a date or the whole family, and be sure to come hungry – in addition to curries, noodles and sushi, Benja’s salads, soups and sticky mango rice are not to be missed.

Magleby’s

1450 Hilton Dr., St George, UT 84770 | 435-652-9600 American / Dine-In | Catering | $$ Mon.–Sat., 7:00 a.m.–9:00p.m.; Closed Sun. With over thirty years of catering experience, we guarantee to make your next event magical! Everything we do we do with love, and you won’t find another catering company with as many homemade recipes or fully customized options. If you’re looking for a culinary experience creatively tailored to fit your event, we’re at your service.

Red Fort Cuisine of India

148 S. 1470 E., St. George, UT 84790 | 435-574-4050 Indian | Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-free Options | Healthy | $$ Mon.–Thurs., 11:30 a.m.–9:00 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 12:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.; Closed Sun. Located in the shopping and dining hub just north of St. George Boulevard, Red Fort Indian Cuisine is the only authentic Indian restaurant in St. George. The flavors are unique and harmonious, and many of their menu items are vegan, vegetarian or gluten free. Stop by and experience the delicious flavors of authentic East India. The elegant and inviting atmosphere paired with their kind and friendly staff, is sure to provide for a relaxing, enjoyable dining experience.

The Painted Pony

2 W. St. George Blvd. #22, St. George, UT 84770 | 435-634-1700 Steakhouse | Seafood | Contemporary | Healthy | $$$$ Lunch: Mon.–Sat., 11:30 a.m.–4:00 p.m.; Dinner: 4:00 p.m.–10:00 p.m.; Sun., 4:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.

In the heart of Ancestor Square, the Painted Pony delights with an upscale menu, full beer and wine list, cocktails and exceptional service. Prepare for a sensory experience with complex flavors, top-notch presentation and a beautiful atmosphere. Evening ambiance complete with soft lighting, fresh flowers and patio dining. Locally sourced, organic, vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options are available for every palate.

Cappeletti’s

36 E. Tabernacle, St. George, UT 84770 | 435-986-4119 Italian | Steak | Seafood | Contemporary | $$ Lunch: Tues.–Sat.,11:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.; Dinner: 5:00 p.m.–9:00 p.m.

Centrally located in historic downtown near Town Square, Cappeletti’s is a favorite for casual business lunches, friend and family gatherings, and romantic evening dining. Authentic Italian pastas like gnocchi bolognese or cannelloni will comfort and satisfy, but if you’re not in the mood for pasta, the fresh fish of the day, tender Black Angus flat iron steaks, market fresh meats, and poultry are all prepared daily and presented beautifully. In this quaint and cozy family owned and operated restaurant, plan to settle in for warm, friendly Italian cuisine with an Argentinian flair, and leave satiated in body and soul.

Katering Koncepts, Inc. – Full Service Catering & Event Rentals

1495 S. Black Ridge Dr., Suite A210, St. George, UT 84770 | 435-574-0059 Menus include buffet options, breakfast, lunch, dinner, appetizers, and gourmet lunch boxes.

Call Katering Koncepts when it just has to be Perfect! We will customize any menu just for your event. Serving the St. George and surrounding Southern Utah areas. Katering Koncepts sets a new standard in private, corporate and wedding events. We have a full line of rentals including tables, chairs, linens, formal dishware, decorations, dance floors, tents, serving dishes and many other items to help make your event a success. Call us or visit our website at www.kateringkoncepts.com for a complete list.

Pizza/Pasta Factory

Pasta Factory: 2 W. St. George Blvd. #8, St. George, UT 84770 | 435-674-3753 Pizza Factory: 2 W. St. George Blvd. #8, St. George, UT 84770 | 435-628-1234 Pizza Factory Express: 1930 W. Sunset Blvd., St. George, UT 84770 | 435-634-1234 Pizza Factory Pineview: 2376 E. Red Cliffs Dr., St. George, UT 84790 | 435-688-2656 Pizza | Pasta | Dine-In | Take-Out | Delivery | Salad Bar | $$ Mon.—Sat at 11:00 a.m.

The Pasta Factory, with its year-round, climate controlled outdoor patio dining wows with custom-made pasta, soups, sandwiches and salads. The Pizza Factory offers three locations with the best and freshest salad bar in town; homemade soups, sandwiches, famous bread twists and Southern Utah’s favorite pizza combinations.

Twenty-Five Main Café

25 Main Street, St. George, UT 84770 | 435-628-7110 Cafe | Coffee Shop | Gourmet cupcakes | $ Mon.–Thurs., 8:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m.; Fri.–Sat., 8:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m.

Visitors step from the streets of St. George to an atmosphere reminiscent of a Soho cafe when they stop by this counter-style downtown gem for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Delectable salads, panini sandwiches done to perfection, and pasta are the featured menu items, but most diners frequent the café for its cupcakes. Twenty-Five Main is perfect for a business lunch or breakfast, a get-together with friends or a quiet spot to relax in the evening before absorbing the downtown art-walk in St. George.

26 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

Angelica’s one of the busiest eateries on St. George Boulevard.

RESTAURANT JOURNEYS:

ANGELICA’S MEXICAN GRILL For many people, Mexican food is their first choice when it comes to dining out, but finding a truly excellent establishment that provides consistency with both menu and service can seem daunting.

Look no further! Angelica’s Mexican Grill on St. George Boulevard offers delicious menu options, great service, and value for your next mealtime excursion.

Located on St. George Boulevard, Angelica’s features authentic Mexico City-style street food. Everything on the menu is “made with love” by owner and restaurateur Angelica Lancaster, who immigrated to the United States over fifteen years ago.

while she was sleeping and kiss my daughter again at night,” she said.

“My mom raised my daughter. I hardly saw her for six years, and that’s a very sad part of my life.”

Always a hard worker, Angelica was employed as a dishwasher at Olive Garden and eventually worked her way up to server by memorizing the menu and studying local news to learn English. She met her husband, Jack, online, and the couple was married not long afterward. The two now work as a team to make

Although the restaurant has changed locations several times, it continues to be the go-to Mexican restaurant from residents and visitors alike. In May 2020, Angelica’s carnitas, sweet carnitas, and carne asada street tacos were served for the Republican members of the United State Senate at the invitation of Senator Mike Lee, who became acquainted with Angelica and Jack when he ate at the restaurant.

“I feel very humbled, and I cannot believe it,” Angelica said.

“I hope everyone enjoys the food as much as my customers here. I want them to feel the love that I have when I share my culture through the food.”

“It’s a huge honor,” added Jack. “[Angelica] never dreamed growing up in Mexico she would be a restaurant owner in the United States. Having her food served to the United States Senate is just beyond her wildest dreams.”

The menu at Angelica’s packs in everyone’s favorites.

The street tacos are made with fresh, lightly crisped corn tortillas and loaded with your choice of meat: carne asada, carnitas, pollo asado, chile verde, sweet carnitas,

or machaca. Mulitas, part corn tortilla quesadilla and part street taco, are filled with melted cheese, meat, and beans. Add your own toppings at their fresh salsa bar, where they have several choices of salsa, shredded cabbage, chopped onions, and cilantro.

The menu also features soft tacos, burritos, quesadillas, the carne asada platter, and a fan favorite, the torta, stuffed with avocado, onion, tomato, and your choice of carne asada, carnitas, or pollo asado. If you’re feeling confident, take the Torta Challenge: Devour the entire sandwich in ten minutes or less and get a coupon for a free torta on your next visit.

Angelica’s sacrifice, hard work, and dedication have paid off as shown by the restaurant’s nearly five star ratings on Tripadvisor, Yelp, and Google and by their loyal following of customers who come in from near and far for a taste of Angelica’s Mexican food—made with love.

The story of how Angelica made her way from Mexico to St. George, Utah, is one of perseverance, hard work, and courage. As a wife, young mother, and new immigrant to Utah, she planned to study in the U.S. for a few months and return home.

When her plans did not go as she had hoped, she became a single mother who worked three jobs to support her small family.

That was a challenging time for her. “I would just kiss my daughter goodbye in the morning St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 27

Jim and Lori Gaddis found health—and true love—during thirty-three-year walking streak

By Marianne Hamilton As rain was falling on September 14, 1987, Jim Gaddis caught sight of an attractive woman carrying an umbrella. The pair were walking in opposite directions on a popular bike path in their hometown of Rockford, Illinois. Getting increasingly soaked, Jim asked Lori if she might be willing to share her umbrella.

One month later, they were engaged; ten weeks later, they married.

Thirty-three years later (and with a blended family that now boasts five children, twelve grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren), only Jim’s heart procedure and Lori’s broken ankle have interrupted their 28 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

streak of daily strolls. Best of all, walking has helped both keep their weight—once 234 pounds for Jim, who stands five feet four inches, and 214 pounds for Lori, five feet three inches—well under control.

To those who spend any amount of time on the four-mile loop between Bloomington Park and SunRiver in St. George, Utah, the Gaddises are familiar figures. At 11:00 a.m. during the winter months (hours earlier when the weather heats up), the duo sets out from their SunRiver home.

Sporting the Fitbits supplied by their healthcare provider, they keep track of steps taken, calories burned, minutes per mile, and other minutiae.

Added Lori, “We always feel so much better when we get back from our walk. And then the person who didn’t want to go will say, ‘What was I thinking?’ At our age, we need something fun in our lives. When we’re out there, we laugh and goof around, we talk to people, and we look at the rabbits and birds and cows and horses. We just make it a fun event.”

As the pair described their mutual exercise addiction, it was obvious that the love they discovered on that trail more than three decades ago hasn’t…well, lost a step. When asked what first attracted him to Lori, Jim was quick to reply. “She has the cutest dimples, and it struck me that she was—and is—really beautiful,” he said.

“His eyes are fading as he gets older,” Lori asserted, patting her husband’s cheek.

Then smiling, she recalled an anecdote that summed up the pair’s connection. Because they fell in love and decided to get married so quickly, Lori’s pastor asked that they take a compatibility test. If they passed, he promised he would bless the marriage.

The round-trip trek occasionally consumes more time than might be expected, admitted Lori, a trim, vivacious 76-year-old. “Jim just loves to talk,” she said, laughing. “If the devil himself was walking beside us, Jim would strike up a conversation with him. So sometimes it takes a few hours to do our four miles.”

“We’ve been incredibly lucky with our health,” Jim said. “Our doctors love the fact that we keep track of what we eat, how many hours we sleep, how many calories we’re burning...and especially that we only see them for our annual physicals! Lori and I will keep walking as long as we’re able.”

Her mate’s jovial nature is the legacy of a long career spent managing assisted living facilities. Now retired at 73, Jim is still quick with a smile and a friendly word for everyone he encounters. “We used to have a big sign on the wall at one of the nursing homes that said ‘Old age isn’t for sissies,’” he said. “That’s so true! You get out of life what you put into it.”

According to their Fitbits, Lori logs approximately twelve thousand steps daily, while Jim’s count is closer to sixteen thousand steps. That’s more than four million steps annually for her and over five million for him. Surely there must be days when they’re just not feeling like hitting the trail. “Yes, that happens once in a great while,” Jim confirmed.

“And when one of us says we don’t want to go, the other will say, ‘OK, you get ten minutes on the pity-potty, then get moving.’ Neither of us has ever, in all of these years, stayed home because we just didn’t feel like walking.”

The Gaddis pair put in plenty of miles in Illinois prior to their 2012 move to St. George. Back then, frigid temperatures in the winter meant they often stayed indoors and did treadmill workouts—especially after Lori slipped on an icy patch and fractured her ankle in 1995. As soon as the doctor gave her the go-ahead, she was walking again. Jim was down briefly following a heart ablation, but since their move to Utah, the two haven’t missed a day on foot.

“He put us in separate rooms, and we answered the questions. And when he looked at our answers, he said, ‘If I didn’t know you were in separate rooms, I’d have sworn you two cheated on this; I’ve never seen two people who are better suited for each other.’

And it’s been that way for thirty-three years.

Sometimes you just get lucky.”

For those just beginning a walking program, the Gaddises recommend starting with a halfmile and building up endurance from there.

“When I weighed 214 pounds, I could barely walk a mile; I was so winded,” Lori recalled.

“But if you build up slowly, you’ll get there… and then you’ll get a huge rush when you’re able to do the miles.”

“If you don’t use it, you’re gonna lose it,” Jim finished. “There’s no question; Lori and I will be walking up to the pearly gates together.”

About the Author Marianne L. Hamilton is a veteran journalist and marketing writer whose work appears in regional and national publications. When not race walking, hiking, or teaching water aerobics, she is Board Chair of Art Around the Corner and the Special Events Manager for DOCUTAH. She and her husband, Doug, are also co-administrators of the St. George Wine Club and race directors for the Huntsman World Senior Games and National Senior Games. Marianne was crowned Ms. Senior Italy Universe 2019–2020 and the Senior Pageants Group’s 2020–2021 Senior Games Ambassador. She is a proud breast cancer survivor.

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 29

Bachelor of Science in Communication with an emphasis in Organization & Leadership

Convenient Learning For When Life Isn’t!

STARTING SOON!!!

DEGREE COMPLETION PROGRAM

• Finish your degree • One night a week • One course at a time • 20 valuable courses • Finish in 5 semesters • 35 Preapproved Students • Starts August 2020

YOU CAN FINISH YOUR DEGREE! 76 www.saintgeorgewellness.com www.saintgeorgewellness.com 30

RESERVE YOUR SEAT TODAY communication.dixie.edu/dcp Call 435-652-7638

ROBOTICS-ASSISTED

KNEE AND HIP REPLACEMENTS in St. George, Utah

By Maria Todd, PhD, MHA, SGSC Director of Business Development

St. George Surgical Center is proud to announce the arrival of its new state-of-the-art CORI robot, Smith+Nephew’s most advanced and efficient handheld robotic system for knee replacement surgery.

The CORI replaces the NAVIO robot that SGSC placed in service in November 2019. Combined with the benefits of Smith+Nephew’s 30-year OXINIUM implants, patients experience quicker recovery, avoidance of possible metal allergies, a more natural feel in their knee, and lower risk of complications after surgery. Mayo-trained orthopedic surgeon Gregory J. Hicken, MD, FAAOS, has successfully completed several CORI robotic-assisted knee replacements at the St. George Surgical Center since its arrival in January 2021.

Knee replacement surgery has been performed since 1968 and relied on manual procedures to remove damaged bone and place the implant within the joint with jigs and guides that placed long metal alignment rods into the thigh bone. Most recently, surgeons used CT scans to create surgical plans and determine implant sizing for each patient.

Unfortunately for the patient, these CT scans were the equivalent of about ten chest x-rays in radiation exposure. In addition, they increased costs and added time from initial consultation until day of surgery.

With robotics-assisted joint replacement surgery, surgery is planned using a custom 3-D digital model of the patient’s knee during the actual surgical procedure in the operating theater. This 3-D view helps the surgeon finalize and verify the right size implant for each patient and create a detailed surgical plan to optimize movement and function. In most cases, it also eliminates the radiation exposure and the costs of the CT scan before surgery. Smith+Nephew’s CORI robot for knee and hip

replacements has proven to the FDA that this enhanced level of accuracy and the design of the implants give patients a better long-term outcome.

Some of the other patient benefits of the Smith+Nephew CORI robotic and implant pairing are the OXINIUM ceramic-coated implants. The robot operates faster so that the patient is under anesthesia for a shorter period of time. In most cases, Dr, Hicken completes the procedure inclusive of the 3-D digital modeling and a customized surgical plan in about an hour and with more accuracy than non-robotics-assisted knee and hip replacement surgeries frequently performed elsewhere in St. George.

Precision and accuracy are key to a good outcome; if an implant is positioned incorrectly, it may not function as well or last as long. Other brands of knee and hip implants use metal joints and risk metal-onmetal micro flecks introduced into the patient’s body.

To enhance healing, reduce infection risk, and reduce pain from post-operative swelling, each Smith+Nephew implant comes with a PICO-7 negative wound pressure dressing at no additional cost to patient or insurer.

The CORI robot was a capital investment made by St. George Surgical Center, meaning it is a surgical tool, just like any other clamp or retractor.

In that sense, there is no additional cost to the patient or their insurer to use the robot for knee and hip replacement surgeries at St. George Surgical Center. Their robotic-assisted knee and hip replacements are covered by Medicare, the VA, and many other insurers contracted with St. George Surgical Center. An all-inclusive, packaged cash price of $14,990 is also available for patients not covered by insurance.

To learn more about the benefits of CORI, join St. George Surgical Center for Lunch with the Doc at 11:30 a.m. on March 26, 2021, and April 23, 2021, at Magleby’s Restaurant. Doctors will explain the advantages of CORI knee and hip replacements and answer questions. There is no cost or obligation to attend. To reserve your seat, RSVP by calling 435-705-7039. Don’t wait; seating is limited!

ST. GEORGE SURGICAL CENTER

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 31

Vision

Restoration

By Marcos Reyes, MD

It is an exciting time to be an ophthalmologist. We are continually presented with newer and better tools to improve our patients’ visual lives. I would like to highlight two of the most exciting new advances, the astigmatism-correcting, implantable Toric ICL and the new Vivity Intraocular Lens (IOL).

Common to vision correction are glasses, bifocals, trifocals, and contacts, all of which may work but do not provide visual freedom. Many of our patients want to be free of the constant need for glasses and contact lenses. They want their vision restored. This is what we strive to deliver to our patients. As a former professor of ophthalmology, let me break down the newest tools available to improve your vision.

Vivity IOL

In the fall of 2020, our surgeons were the first in southern Utah to have access to this procedure for our patients. The results are quite nice.

The Vivity IOL is the newest eye implant designed to help both our younger and older patients restore their distance and computer vision via refractive lens exchange (RLE) or cataract surgery. Refractive lens exchange (RLE) is when the natural lens of the eye is removed and replaced with a lens implant. The Vivity IOL is free from the light-inhibiting problems (glares and halos) of its implant predecessors. > For younger patients whose farsightedness is outside the bounds of LASIK, we offer RLE with the Vivity IOL implant. > For middle age patients who suffer from presbyopia (a loss of near vision) and do not want to use contacts or “readers,’’ we offer a RLE with the Vivity IOL implant. > For older patients with cataracts, we offer cataract surgery with the Vivity IOL implant. > Check out my youtube channel (youtube.com/c/marcosreyesMD) to view routine cataract surgery and refractive lens exchange videos in addition to many other eye surgery videos.

Toric ICL

After sixteen years of waiting, the toric ICL (TICL) implants hit the US market in 2018 and became routinely implanted in 2019. Its predecessor was the ICL (also known as the Implantable Collamer Lens or Implantable Contact Lens). The ICL was designed to correct nearsightedness in patients that did not qualify for LASIK, but it did not correct astigmatism. Like its predecessor, TICLs are a reversible solution for nearsightedness. The toric addition gives the added capability of correcting a patient’s astigmatism in addition to the nearsightedness. Both the ICL and TICL are implanted in the space behind the iris and in actuality, have been shown to offer higher qualities of vision than LASIK, which alters the structure of the eye. For this reason, many individuals choose ICLs over LASIK. Go to my youtube channel (youtube.com/c/marcosreyesMD) to view a routine ICL being implanted.

Our office is involved in all aspects of eye care, including glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic eye disease, all of which are age-associated causes of vision loss and benefit from early detection via routine exams and close monitoring.

Caring for our patients’ vision is our passion. Come visit us at St George Eye Center.

About the Author Dr Reyes is board certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology. He attended medical school at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center. He completed his Ophthalmology Residency at the University of Texas in San Antonio, Texas, where he also served as chief resident. He trained in LASIK and PRK at the nationally recognized Air Force WarFighter Refractive Surgery Center.

Dr. Reyes completed a glaucoma fellowship at the prestigious Dean McGee Eye Institute in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and subsequently served as a professor at the University of Missouri Mason Eye Clinic for five years.

In 2015, he and his family moved to southern Utah to continue practicing medicine in private practice. Dr. Reyes specializes in LASIK, PRK, refractive lens exchange, ICL surgery, medical and surgical glaucoma, cataract surgery, and complex anterior segment surgeries.

He and his wife Raina have four wonderful children, whom he loves spending time with. Hiking, mountain biking, and reading are a few of his favorite hobbies.

Please visit his continually expanding youtube channel for examples of his surgeries (http://www.youtube.com/c/marcosreyesMD). The goal is to provide a place for those who are interested to see examples of the surgeries performed by Dr. Reyes.

32 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

V. Lowry Snow Matthew J. Ence Jeff R. Miles

Curtis M Jensen Cameron M. Morby Sean J. Romney

Lewis P. Reece Jonathan P. Wentz Devon J. Herrmann

J. Gregory Hardman Devin Snow Victoria Carlton

S o u t h e r n U ta h ’s P r e m i e r B u s i n e s s a n d E s tat e P l a n n i n g L aw F i r m Business Law and Disputes

Real Estate and Construction Law

Municipal Law and Land Use Planning

Commercial Transactions

Litigation, Mediation, and Appeals

Estate and Tax Planning

435.628.3688 | www.SnowJensen.com | St. George

Cedar City

Kanab

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 33

sghw |

H E A LT H

sghw |

FINANCIAL

sghw |

MIND & BODY

sghw |

F A M I LY

sghw |

C U LT U R E

sghw |

WELLNESS

Our team is fully licensed and certified by the Auto Glass Safety Council and uses the top of the line adhesives for a safe windshield replacement.

Receive a lifetime of free rock chip repairs with any windwhield replacement.

WIGS

& HAIR REPLACEMENT

(435)

652-1181

Full Service Wig & Hair Salon for Women and Men 900 S. Bluff Street

CreativeWigs.com

34 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

PRESTON’S MEDICAL WASTE DISPOSAL:

PROTECTING PEOPLE AND THE ENVIRONMENT Although modern practices, regulations, and laws recognize the importance of proper medical waste disposal, this was not always the case.

In fact, up until the mid-1960s, the disposal of medical waste was largely unregulated. Imagine a world in which medical waste from every doctor’s office, dentist’s office, hospital, clinic, veterinary office, funeral home, and care facility was never addressed.

Unless you work in the health care or medical industries, medical waste probably isn’t something you think about. However, improper medical waste disposal can pose potential risks for everyone—not just for health care workers or medical professionals. Pathogens and toxic pollutants from the improper disposal of medical waste can indirectly be released and spread into the surrounding environment, possibly leading to the contamination of drinking, surface, and ground waters. Additionally, if medical waste is dumped into poorly constructed landfills, the resulting pollution can negatively affect land and wildlife.

Waste or by-products that may be contaminated by blood, body fluids, or other potentially infectious material is considered medical waste. Medical and dental offices, hospitals, veterinary clinics, and other health facilities all produce medical waste. You may recall seeing red biohazard bags or containers in your doctor’s office. These containers are used to identify and temporarily contain

medical waste and are essential in protecting practitioners and health care workers.

Improperly discarded needles may expose workers to potential needle-stick injuries and infection. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that about 385,000 sharps-related injuries occur annually among health care workers in hospitals. The management and disposal of medical waste should not be treated lightly. Good waste management practices keep the environment and employees safe from the dangers found in the use and disposal of medical waste materials.

Preston’s Medical Waste Disposal is southern Utah’s only locally owned medical waste disposal company. Protecting people and the environment from the risks associated with biohazardous medical waste is at the heart of what we do: • Medical, infectious, and lab waste pick up and disposal • Biohazard and sharps removal • Expired prescriptions and pharmaceuticals disposal • On-site document shredding in compliance with all HIPPA, GLB, and FACTA regulations

• Online training program to educate health care providers in the proper management and handling of health care waste.

No matter where in southern Utah your business is located, there are specific regulations to follow when it comes to the storage and pickup of medical waste.

At Preston’s, our goal is to provide you with convenient and easy options for your medical waste products, allowing you to remain compliant with all federal, state, and local laws.

For more information about medical waste disposal or to discuss how Preston’s Medical Waste Disposal can be of service to your office or business, please call (435) 688-1987.

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 35

A Time of

l a w e n e R

By Connie Zdunich

Spring is in the air and with it comes the hope of renewal. There is nothing like the smell of newly turned earth after it has taken its winter rest. Spring is nature’s way of saying, “Let’s get a move on and create something amazingly beautiful.” And then we stand back and watch the wonder. I think we are all beyond ready for the promise of spring 2021.

About the Author Connie enjoys working with local Hospice Groups and Veterans Associations. The military is very close to her heart, with her father being a Pearl Harbor Survivor, and her sweetheart retired Navy.

Helping support local hospice groups is very rewarding for Connie, and she feels being a part of the Spilsbury team is an awesome opportunity.

She is the mother of seven daughters and nineteen grandchildren, who are “the joy of her heart”. She loves being of assistance to those in our community who do so much for each of us.

My sweet mother was a gardener extraordinaire. The yard of my childhood home was an array of vibrant colors and textures. Mom’s only shortcoming, to my young mind, was her love of weeding.

She was obsessed with making sure that each and every invader who dared try to take root in her flowerbeds met with destruction. Weeding was a big job, so of course, she “invited” me to join her. My only sibling was ten years younger than I and was thus saved from this daunting task.

I swore when I grew up that I would never ask my children to be involved in such an endeavor. Well, I will be the first to admit that mom infected me with a love for gardening, and now, my children suffer the same path with pesky weeds that I once trod. In mom’s quiet, subtle way, she instilled in me a path and place to escape the worries of the world, become one with nature, and create a place of beauty and sweet repose.

Gardening is one of my passions and helps bring balance to my life. When I come home from work, change clothes, and grab gardening tools, my sweetheart knows that a bit of space and quiet time is in order. Gardening is healing on many levels. It is one of those things that brings great self-satisfaction while allowing time for honest self-reflection.

It has been fun to watch my daughters, as they have grown and married, carry on my love of the spring—their flower pots planted to overflowing with radiate color and their yards with flowerbeds (free of weeds) tended with love and care. My wise mother encouraged her resistant daughter to recognize the beauty of the world and to develop a place of peace and comfort, no matter where she grew up to live. I thank her each time my hands turn that first scoop of soil after its winter rest.

Last year brought many changes into our lives, some good and some very difficult. We had to stand back and look a bit harder to recognize the joy in our lives. This year has had a rocky start, and our road to normalcy appears to be a bit longer than we may have hoped. We are blessed to live in southern Utah, with its natural beauty and endless days full of azure blue skies. So, if we just take a minute to watch and observe, that hope of renewal will again manifest itself in the beauty and promise of spring.

36 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

Visit our free world-class outdoor sculpture galleries.

www.artaroundthecorner.org St. George, UT

435-243-7244

Ask about sales/leasing options!

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 37

Matters of

Life and Death

By Lyman Hafen We’ve passed the one-year mark, and the specter of COVID is still with us. Looking back, I must admit that by the fall of last year I’d begun to feel fairly comfortable, maybe even complacent, about it. I, my family, and my neighbors had been spared the harsh realities of the virus, and the organization I work for had made it through the summer with a minimum of exposure and a maximum of financial support from the government. Then, as the year closed, so faded my sense of confidence. Over the Christmas and New Year holidays, two people I’ve known most of my life, two people who have lived exemplary lives and given of themselves beyond measure for the good of this community, succumbed to COVID long before their time.

Paul Snow and Glen Blakley are the two I’m talking about here.

There are more I could mention if space allowed, and many more men and women you would add to the list of wonderful souls who are no longer with us. I share these as worthy representatives of that long list.

Paul Snow 38 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

Paul was a respected and successful businessman in St. George. His roots ran deep to the original founders of this community. He was born with the red sand of Dixie between his toes, and he and his family have been at the core of what has made this place so desirable to the thousands who have moved here in recent years. No more genuine, charitable, or unpretentious man ever lived in this town, and he leaves a void as wide as his

kind smile and as deep as his love for this place and its people. He is the true embodiment of the Dixie Spirit.

Glen was a transplant from Kentucky who, during more than forty Glen Blakley years here, made an impact as deep as the Grand Canyon. As a professor of art at Dixie College and Dixie State University, he made a difference for good in the lives of thousands of students. No man was ever more devoted to his calling. It was a calling to create fine art, which he did in abundance, to teach, and also to share the great art of the world with anyone who would come along for the ride. It would be impossible to quantify the number of people whose lives were enhanced by his knowledge, by his passion, and most of all, by his genuine friendship. And none of it was for gain because he could have made much more by turning his talents and energies toward personal fortune.

And so it was with a heavy heart that many of us entered the new year. Even then, I didn’t realize how much closer to home the pandemic would get. In mid-January, Debbie and I went on a hike with our daughter, her husband, and three of their children. We came home and cooked dinner and spent a delightful evening together. The

next morning, our daughter called and said she’d been changing the baby’s diaper and realized she’d lost her sense of smell. That’s when our quarantine began, and when, two days later, her test result came back positive for COVID, we dug in for the long haul. Three days later, our son, who is a student at Dixie State and lives with us, began to feel ill. Nearly a year after the virus broke loose in our country, it hit home at our house. When our son’s test results came back positive, we finally came to terms. That ominous word—pandemic— was no longer something floating around out in the wide world. It had literally entered our door.

A few days later I went for a test. I arrived as instructed at the north entrance of the old campus of Dixie Regional Medical Center on Fifth South between Third and Fourth East. A sign there directed me around the corner to the parking lot along Third East. As I drove up to the temporary structure to check in, I realized where I was. A feeling engulfed me. A complex mix of the sadness of untimely death and the miracle of birth and life in this beautiful but sometimes brutal world.

----------

I was six years old the day I trudged down the street side-byside with my Dad. We walked the half block from my house on Sixth South to Flood Street. We crossed that street, which is actually Fourth East, and tromped across a vast, vacant space, over the crusty alkali, through the sagebrush and creosote, and up the incline to the backside of Dixie Pioneer Memorial Hospital. The old brown-brick building, which was torn down in the 1970s to make way for a new medical center, was a long and narrow rectangle with its front facing west along Third East. It ran north and south nearly the full length of the block between Fifth and Sixth South. From the rear base of the building, a ledge extended out ten or fifteen feet before the ground gave way to a steep incline tapering down over the open ground all the way to Flood Street.

Dad and I hiked up the hill that day. We called it Hospital Hill.

It was a legendary place where everyone in the neighborhood took their wagons, their go-karts, their trikes and bikes and any other form of transportation that benefited from the wonderful principle of gravity. Those were the days just after Disneyland opened, and some

of the kids in our neighborhood had actually been there. But nothing at Disneyland came close to the joyful terror of flying completely out of control down the steep dirt slope of Hospital Hill in a wooden fruit crate with tenuously attached old lawnmower wheels.

Dad and I made our way up to the ledge on the backside of the hospital. It was a formidable building in the eyes of a little kid, not just because it was so huge but because of what you imagined went on in there. What had gone on in there just a few days earlier was the birth of my little brother. In those days, moms convalesced in the hospital for many days after giving birth, and visiting restrictions were much tighter. So Dad had brought me to a spot below the window of my mother’s room. He reached up and tapped on the window and lifted me up on his shoulder to look in. Soon, my mother’s beautiful and reassuring face appeared in the window, and though we could not hear each other through the glass, she communicated her love to me, and I expressed my joy at seeing her.

As we headed back down the hill, Dad stopped, and we turned and looked up again at the building. Dad pointed to the window of the delivery room. “That’s where your little brother was born,” he said. “And that’s where you were born six years ago.”

I’ve never forgotten that moment. Somehow it was always meaningful to me to know the exact spot where I entered this world.

Sitting in my car in the parking lot the other day, it took me several minutes to generate enough saliva to fill the COVID test vile they’d given me. As I did so, I looked up and felt a shiver run through me.

I realized I was parked either on—or very near—the plot of earth where I was born.

About the Author Lyman is the author of a dozen books intent on connecting landscape and story in the American Southwest. He is executive director of the Zion National Park Forever Project, and is past president of the national Public Lands Alliance.

He’s been writing and publishing for more than 35 years, with several hundred magazine articles in publications ranging from Western Horseman to Northern Lights, and was the founding editor of St. George Magazine in 1983.

He’s been recognized on several occasions with literary awards from the Utah Arts Council, and won the Wrangler Award from the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. He lives in Santa Clara, Utah, with his wife Debbie, and together they have 6 children and 15 grandchildren.

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 39

The Blue Zones:

How to Live Healthy for One Hundred Years

By Emily Fonnesbeck, RD, CD Have you heard of the Blue Zones?

About the Author Emily Fonnesbeck is a Registered Dietitian who owns her own private practice in Hyde Park, Utah, working with both local and virtual clients. She specializes in treating eating disorders, disordered eating, and body image concerns. She is also the co-founder of Eat Confident Co., which offers group coaching programs for women struggling with disordered eating, and co-hosts the Eat with Confidence podcast.

40 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

Almost a decade ago, best-selling author Dan Buettner teamed up with National Geographic and the world’s best longevity researchers to identify pockets around the world where people lived measurably longer lives. In these areas, known as “Blue Zones,” they discovered that people reached one hundred years of age at rates ten times greater than in the United States. Areas which met the criteria to be considered a Blue Zone were found in Loma Linda, California; Sardinia, Italy; Okinawa, Japan; Nicoya, Costa Rica; and Icaria, Greece.

After identifying these Blue Zones, researchers took teams of scientists to each location to identify lifestyle characteristics that might explain the increase in longevity. They found that all Blue Zone residents shared nine specific characteristics they call the “Power Nine.”

The Power Nine 1. Move naturally. Movement is a natural part of their day. Instead of having a set time to go to the gym, their lifestyle encompasses continual physical activity throughout the day. Those who work at a desk for most of the day can participate in something I call “exercise snacks.” Set a timer to go off each hour, at which time you take five minutes to walk and stretch before heading back to your desk.

2. Purpose. A sense of purpose is worth up to an extra seven years of life expectancy. Why do you wake up in the morning? Do you engage in meaningful work and find purpose in what you spend your time doing?

3. Down shift. Most Americans have it all wrong: more is not necessarily better. Don’t we all seem to be striving for bigger and better by doing more? Down shifting, or finding ways to rest, relax, and rejuvenate, actually increases productivity. Stress leads to chronic inflammation and is linked to many diseases. Find a routine to shed stress and set aside time each day or each week to do something that helps you reconnect with yourself.

4. 80 percent rule. This means that you stop eating when your stomach is 80 percent full. In addition, these groups eat their largest meal midday and their smallest meal in the late afternoon or early evening. They don’t eat after their evening meal, either. You may not need to follow this exact pattern, but I believe it speaks to the importance of fueling yourself well during the day.

5. Plant slant. These groups have at least 75 percent of their plate coming from the ground. They eat high fiber meals that are rich in antioxidants, phytochemicals, vitamins, and minerals. Meat is eaten on average only five times per month, and the serving size is between three to four ounces—the size of your palm. Beans are the cornerstone of the centenarian diet; I encourage you to use them as your protein source at least once a day!

6. Wine at five. People in some of these Blue Zones drink alcohol moderately and regularly. They drink one to two glasses per day with friends and/or with food.

7. Belong. All but five of the 263 centenarians interviewed belonged to a faith-based community. Research shows attending faithbased services four times per month will add four to fourteen years of life expectancy. Ultimately, feeling a part of something bigger than yourself can increase quality and length of years.

8. Loved ones first. Blue Zones are known for their deep appreciation for family. They keep aging parents and grandparents nearby or in the home, which lowers disease and mortality rates of children in the home, too. They commit to a life partner, which can add up to three years of life expectancy, and they invest in their children with time and love. Enough said.

9. Right tribe. There is a quote that says, “You are the average of the five people you associate with most.” These Blue Zones take this saying to heart. They choose—or are born into—social circles that support healthy behaviors.

I appreciate the data from the Blue Zones. It shows that each of us can create our own blue zone and that health and wellness is multifactorial. The information gathered from these areas encourages a holistic approach to life and has very little to do with fixating on numbers, killing yourself at the gym, or giving up carbs. Along with healthy eating and staying active, pleasure, rest, and relaxation (and don’t confuse that with numbing feelings or “zoning out”) are important habits to cultivate if you seek health.

For more information about Blue Zones, visit www.bluezones.com.

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 41

Mind and Body Deep Clean, 2021 Style

By Erin Del Toro, Certified Clinical Hypnotherapist

Not meeting those New Year’s goals like you hoped?

Maybe it’s time to spring clean your past.

About the Author Erin Del Toro is a certified Clinical Hypnotherapist for True North Mind Management. She is passionate about combining eastern and western medicine, changing the effects of trauma, and helping others unlock the power of their true potential.

When she’s not reading and learning about the mind, she enjoys spending time with her daughters, training for ninja warrior competitions, and staying active in the great outdoors of Southern Utah.

42 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

As a nation, we’ve survived a year of COVID and masks, high emotions, political tension, and financial challenges. But as individuals, this surviving did not happen in a vacuum. Before 2020 turned upside down and emptied itself into an already-full wastebasket of issues, most people were already dealing with enough in their day-to-day lives.

For many, the combination of the past and the present is beginning to feel overwhelming, making it difficult to meet goals and make changes. The results are showing in pretty much every way that people tend to react to stress.

In 2020, anxiety and depression steadily increased.

Seventy-one million Americans reported significant weight gain. Reports and polls show that men and women have increased alcohol consumption and daydrinking. Recreational marijuana purchases continue to climb, American families have moved to more television binge-watching, and electronics usage has skyrocketed.

When human beings aren’t sure about how to deal with stress, it’s only natural for them to turn to easy comfort. This usually means less movement, more fast food, and more substance use, creating a body that is unhealthy and weighed down. As is often the case with easy comforts, a negative feedback loop is created that can be challenging to break.

Sound familiar? If you’re moving through 2021 and you are not thrilled with the way your resolutions are turning out—whether you wanted to be healthier, disconnect from a bad relationship, enjoy less screen time, improve your sleep schedule, or discontinue a substance—you’re not alone. It is not just the current stress and distractions you have around you right now that are likely holding you back; chances are it’s rooted in your past.

When we have had an experience that we no longer consciously think about it, the feelings and memories surrounding it are stored in the cells in our brains and the pathways that link them—for life. These memories that we are not aware of using end up functioning with what we call the subconscious mind.

The subconscious mind reminds the body of the programming issued by these old experiences: the

feelings, the thoughts, and the way we reacted to what happened. It continues to communicate these feelings to our bodies, and it alters the way our bodies and minds work, including the system in the body responsible for distributing chemicals for emotions.

In this way, old, unaddressed feelings hold people back from living up to their potential. One of the keys to success is to locate the old experiences that are quietly hiding away and need to be dealt with, then heal and repurpose them to make pathways for new growth.

If it sounds daunting to begin the task of emptying out painful experiences during the stress of everyday life right now, don’t be overwhelmed. Healing from the past properly comes with a major bonus. As old pains lift and the subconscious mind begins to understand that it’s time to change, the chemicals in the brain and body shift, freeing us to see and experience current life in a new and different way.

There are several ways to clear the path of the future: Meditating and/or praying can connect you deeply to the experiences your body and mind are storing. There are many great sources of meditation and prayer on youtube and the internet for all types of healing and trauma.

Cognitive behavioral therapy helps you process and evaluate your thoughts and feelings about your behaviors and past experiences with a therapist.

EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing) incorporates elements of cognitive behavioral therapy with eye movements or other forms of rhythmic, left-right stimulation that can “unfreeze” traumatic memories.

Clinical hypnotherapy allows the conscious and subconscious mind to connect and collaborate to locate what is responsible for emotions, habits, physical ailments, or negative feedback loops and correct them.

(For more information on clinical hypnotherapy, visit truenorthmindmanagement.com).

If you’re ready to take the next step into personal healing and new goals, one of these methods might be right for you. There couldn’t be a better time for a deep spring clean.

NO SHOTS WITH ALLERGY DROPS Scan or Go To bit.ly/fspdrops For More Info

•

Allergy drops are easy to use.

•

Allergy drops are placed under the tongue.

•

Allergy drops are a pain-free immunotherapy for allergy sufferers of all kinds.

•

Allergy drops can be taken in the convenience of your own home.

•

Allergy drops are safe for children.

•

Allergy drops are an effective alternative to allergy shots.

•

Allergy drops can be taken for environmental and food allergies.

•

Allergy drops are cost effective.

•

Allergy drops can be found at Fusion Pharmacy!

•

Allergy Drops are available by prescription only through Fusion Pharmacy.

To learn more about allergies, and other helpful remedies, visit our FREE ALLERGY SUMMIT: www.FusionSpecialtyPharmacy.com/allergy-summit/

www.FusionSpecialtyPharmacy.com

SANTA CLARA 1100 Canyon View Dr., Suite C Santa Clara, UT 84765 Phone: (435) 703-9680 Fax: (855) 853-3465 Email: rx@rx-fusion.com

ST. GEORGE 617 E. Riverside Dr., Suite 104 St. George, UT 84790 Phone: (435) 656-2059 Fax: (435) 656-3059 Email: fp@rx-fusion.com

#FusionIsBetterMedicine Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .eps

Facebook “f ” Logo

CMYK / .eps

Back into Shape

By Kristen Kaiser, Rocky Vista University Would you believe that spring has finally arrived? As the warm weather creeps in, I realize that I have not stuck to any of my New Year’s resolutions. I once read that roughly 80 percent of people give up on their resolutions within the first six weeks of the new year. If this describes you, it’s okay! Even if you have not thought about your New Year’s resolutions in some time, don’t call it quits just yet. Now is the time to rethink those resolutions.

Be Specific When it comes to setting goals, make them SMART. What are smart goals? They are: • Specific. Be as clear as possible about your goal.

•M easurable. Set a quantifiable goal, such as “I will lose 10 percent of my body weight” or “I will lose ten pounds.”

•A ttainable. Choose a goal that is challenging yet possible to achieve.

• Relevant. Keep your goals in line with your priorities.

• Time sensitive. Give yourself a time frame in which to achieve a goal. A deadline will instill some urgency and provide motivation.

Mentally Prepare for Change Change is never easy, especially when you have ingrained habits. It’s important to take a step back and prepare for the changes you want to make. Take a personal inventory by asking yourself these questions: What did I set out to do in the past year? What did I accomplish or where did I make progress?

What can I do better in the future? Stay positive and take your time when making big changes.

Write Down Your Goals Writing down your goals and resolutions will clarify what it is you want to achieve and make you accountable. Written goals are a reminder of how far you have come and what you have achieved.

The spring season represents rebirth, renewal, and growth. It’s time to get off the couch, reset some goals, and get back into the swing of things! Let’s get the spring season started on a healthy foot with these tips:

Set Realistic Goals Chances are, you will need to start slowly as you get back into a new routine. Start by exercising two or three times per week. This way, you can make exercise a priority, and once you’ve established a routine, you can increase the number of exercise days. You also need to be realistic about the results you expect to see.

About the Author Kristen was born and raised in northern Utah. She migrated to southern Utah for the beautiful weather and sunny days. Kristen is the Assistant Marketing Manager for Rocky Vista University. She loves her job at the medical school, working with the future doctors of tomorrow. In her spare time, she loves to spend time with her family. With a blended family of six children, three dogs, and three cats, there is never a dull moment.

44 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

Share Your Resolutions with Others While writing down a resolution or goal is a great way to stay on track, sharing your goal with a friend or family member is also beneficial. If the goal is to exercise more, brainstorm with your family or friends about how to be active together. Having a workout buddy or someone who can encourage you to exercise is a great help, especially when you are in a rut.

Don’t Beat Yourself Up It will take time for your resolution to become a reality. The worst thing you can do is beat yourself up about missing a day of exercise or falling off schedule. Be flexible with yourself, cut yourself some slack, and don’t give up. Keep the commitments you made to yourself.

Use this spring season to recommit to your goals, motivate yourself, and grow.

It takes time to develop a habit, but it is possible if you do it one day at a time.

Note: Please remember to follow the CDC guidelines. Wear a mask to protect yourself and others and stop the spread of COVID-19. Stay at least six feet (about two arm lengths) from others who don’t live with you. Avoid crowds. The more people you are in contact with, the more likely you are to be exposed to COVID-19. Please be safe.

ALLERGIES? trust your eyes to SouthWest Vision

MOST AWARDED

EYECARE and OPTICAL CARE 965 E. 700 S. Ste. 100, St. George

435-673-5577 | www.SouthWestVision.

DOCTORS IN SOUTHERN UTAH

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 45

COVID-19 Testing and Treatment

By Cliff Holt, Hurricane Family Pharmacy

About the Author Cliff Holt, RPh, FAAHP, is the owner of Hurricane Family Pharmacy, Gunnison Family Pharmacy & Floral, Price Family Pharmacy, and Integrated Medical Companies. He is a graduate of the University of Utah College of Pharmacy and has been practicing for thirty years. He specializes in compounding, diabetes, anti-aging, wellness, and nutrition. He can be reached at 435-635-8200.

There is a lot of information and misinformation about COVID-19 testing and treatment. At this point, all of us know someone who has contracted the virus. Sadly, many of us know someone who has died as the result of COVID. Certainly, vaccination, social distancing, washing your hands frequently, and wearing a mask will help to slow the spread of the virus.

Testing There are three types of COVID tests on the market as of the writing of this article. They include antibody, antigen, and PCR tests.

There are significant differences in these tests. The antibody test will indicate if a person has already had the COVID virus. The PCR test is very accurate and indicates whether a person currently has COVID. There are two downsides of this test: it costs more, and it usually takes a couple of days to get back the results. The antigen test also indicates if a person currently is infected with the COVID virus. The benefits of this test are the lower cost and the quick return of test results (within ten minutes). Hurricane Family Pharmacy offers all three tests without an appointment. They are all done curbside while you are in your car.

Prevention and Treatment There are several different protocols for treatment, both inside and outside of the hospital setting. Many people do not experience any symptoms while they are infected. Others have

46 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

mild to moderate symptoms, and others have severe symptoms that require hospitalization. Our goal is to prevent this virus from progressing enough to require hospitalization. For prevention, you need to boost your immune system. Important supplements such as vitamin C, vitamin D, glutathione, melatonin, quercetin, and zinc have been studied recently and have shown favorable results.

For treatment, the prescription drug Ivermectin, which has been used to treat parasites, has been studied and has shown positive results for treating the COVID virus when it is combined with an antibiotic and zinc. Ivermectin used alone has also been used widely to prevent a person from getting the COVID virus after exposure. This is a great option for anyone who is not able to get the vaccine.

Currently, there are two manufactures of the COVID vaccine. Even if a person has had COVID, the CDC recommends the vaccine due to the appearance of multiple strains of the virus. The pharmacists and nurses at Hurricane Family Pharmacy have given over 2400 vaccine doses.

Please reach out to one of our several pharmacists at Hurricane Family Pharmacy (435-635-8200) to answer any questions about COVID-19 testing, treatment, or vaccines.

Dixie State University –

Opening Doors to Future Success

By McKinley Hatch The people and experiences we encounter in life can profoundly impact our future success. Kathryn Sanders fully embraces this idea as a Dixie State University student.

“I am not a faceless student to my teachers,” Sanders said. “They care about me, my education, and my future.”

About the Author

McKinley Hatch is currently a senior Trailblazer at Dixie State University majoring in media studies with an emphasis in public relations. McKinley hopes to continue working in the public relations realm after she graduates in August of this year. She enjoys the outdoors, experimenting with new Pinterest recipes, and spending time with her husband.

Currently a junior studying biomedicine and chemistry, Sanders had an opportunity to intern for NASA for a semester last fall. While at her internship, Sanders learned many new skills, including biomimicry research, database creation, computer programming, and other engineering basics. She also was able to meet an astronaut, watch the Orion spacecraft arrive in Ohio, visit NASA’s Plum Brook Station, and even hold a rare voyager disc.

“I’ve always been afraid of failure,” Sanders said.

“The NASA internship taught me that it’s okay to learn from others. It taught me a lot of teamwork, and I keep learning from it even after it’s over.”

Much of what Sanders learned at the internship was largely self-taught, and because of this, she was highly motivated and determined. She said that the very skills she learned in the classroom have allowed her to be successful in real-life experiences.

“The grit and perseverance I learned in school was a big part of why I was successful,” Sanders said. “It’s the actual skills you learn that you don’t even realize you’re learning—to keep going and keep pushing through—that make all the difference.”

Sanders has since continued her education at Dixie State University where she has enjoyed many leadership roles and other internship opportunities.

She embodies the meaning of DSU’s “active learning. active life.” approach to education and has continued to excel both inside and out of the classroom.

“I didn’t realize until my internship at NASA how many opportunities are available for students,” Sanders said. “We have endless resources. I’d encourage students to get to know their professors, apply for student government, do internships, and take advantage of the many opportunities available to us.”

More than 2,000 Dixie State University students participate in high impact practices, such as internship opportunities, annually with the support of DSU’s Career Services department, which helps students become career-ready professionals. Sanders has been greatly impacted by these resources and has participated in two internships and is currently serving as the Biological and Physical Sciences Student Body Senator.

“Internships can actively show that you are searching for new knowledge,” Sanders said. “I am constantly doing something to better myself.” Sanders has exemplified what it means to be a Trailblazer through her resilience, commitment, drive, and motivation to move forward.

“People who have once stood where I am have their dream job, so why can’t I?” Sanders said.

For more information about Dixie State University, visit www.dixie.edu, or to learn more about the Career Services department, visit www.career.dixie.edu.

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 47

Get On A Path to Hope and Healing!

By W. Sidney Young, Ph.D.

Depression Medications Not Working?

If you or someone you love is one of the estimated 16.2 million Americans living with Major Depressive Disorder, there’s a non-invasive and non-systematic treatment available today. It’s called Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) therapy, and it’s currently provided in St. George, at an Utah-based neurohealth clinic, Premier TMS. TMS therapy has been FDA-cleared since 2008. It works by emitting a series of highly-focused electromagnetic pulses (similar in type and strength to an MRI) to the patient’s left-frontal cortex of the brain. This stimulates cortical neurons and causes them to depolarize and release neurotransmitters. This increases blood flow and glucose metabolism in the stimulated regions of the brain, typically resulting in improved mood. Best of all, TMS is covered by most major insurance carriers, including Medicare.

48 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

435-216-9290

www.premiertms.com 1490 E. Foremaster Drive, Suite 340 St George, UT 84790

Treating Depression at Its Source • TMS helps activate the natural function of the brain’s neurotransmitters using a noninvasive magnetic field similar to that of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

• NeuroStar TMS treats right at the source. Because it uses a precise magnetic pulse, it is effective exactly where it needs to be.

• Covered by most insurance.

Premier Life Design •A sk about our new program Premier Life Design to “InGage” with Life.

Treatment Course

• Treatment is non-invasive and non-systematic; side effects are minor and may include minor scalp irritation.

• Treatments are 19-37 minutes in length each, depending upon diagnosis.

• A typical treatment course consists of five treatments per week over a 4-6 week period.

• Patients can drive themselves to their appointment, receive treatment while fully awake, and drive home afterwards.

• We have three TMS chairs and have seen over 100 patients.

“When you’re depressed...you’re always fighting to live...to survive the next day. NeuroStar TMS made such a difference...All of a sudden I felt empowered. I felt strong. I felt like I wasn’t a victim anymore.” ‒Debbie “I had taken eleven different medications without any relief...NeuroStar TMS treatment has helped me bring my life back...with happiness that I’ve never experienced before.” ‒Todd

“Neurostar TMS treatment has changed my life...It’s given me life; it’s given me joy; it’s given me opportunity.” ‒Colleen

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 49

g n i r p S Action into

About the Author Dr. Coleen Andruss practiced as an internist for ten years and has specialized in weight management for twentysix years. She and her staff have personally experienced weight management issues and have a compassionate understanding of patients in the Healthy Lifestyles program. Dr. Andruss’s internal medicine background helps her to see underlying medical problems when formulating individual plans that work.

ss, MD Andru .

M n ee

By Col

Step 6: Use good fats as fuel.

Spring is in the air, warm weather is around the corner, and it’s time to create a personal health action plan! Renew the wellness resolution you made at the start of the new year, but remember that to reach your destination, you must make the journey. The secret is persistence, not perfection.

Success takes smart planning, dedication, and the right information. The first step is to recognize that a change needs to be made. Keep it simple. Work to achieve overall better health rather than just weight loss. Healthy living is a choice, and it’s time to choose the right path!

Step 1: You must be in a calorie

deficit mode.

Calories in must be less than calories out.

If you eat simple, clean, unprocessed foods and observe portion control, calorie counting is not needed.

Step 2: Prioritize protein.

To maintain muscle mass when you are in a calorie deficit mode, you need at least ninety grams of protein a day, ideally a minimum of thirty grams per meal. This is the 30-30-30 rule. To keep the bad fats in check, focus on lean protein sources like chicken, fish, and egg whites. Protein is critical for weight loss, but more importantly, protein is needed to maintain and help build muscle mass and is necessary for cellular function and bone strength.

Step 3: Restrict carbs.

The protein to carb ratio must always be greater than one. Never eat a carb without a protein. When you keep your carbohydrates in check, you control insulin. When insulin 50 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

levels are up, it is impossible for fat burning to occur. When blood sugar and insulin are low because you haven’t provided your body with carbohydrates, fat burning (ketosis) occurs. To keep carbohydrates in check, focus on high-fiber, nutrient-rich, low-calorie carbs like vegetables, legumes, and berries.

Minimize fruits, avoid bad, starchy carbs, and totally avoid any kind of processed sugars.

Step 4: P rotein to carb ratio on your

plate should always be greater than one.

Remember that all vegetables, all fruits, and all starches are carbohydrates.

Step 5: No snacks.

Allow your body to get into the fat burning zone. If you snack, you are fueling your body between meals, and you never force your body to use your own fat as fuel. This is the 6-6-12 rule and is the more moderate type of intermittent fasting, which is easier to do long term. Some people with good metabolism can do the more extreme type of intermittent fasting, which is going eighteen hours without food and having only a six hour period of eating. Not snacking is critical for belly fat loss, but more importantly, keeping insulin levels down prevents diabetes and protects other organs in our body.

You will use good fats as fuel if you have no carbs. The body will always use carbs as a source of fuel first, but without the carbs, it will utilize the good fats. If using good fats as fuel, eat less in volume because fats provide twice as many calories compared to carbs. Using good fats can help with weight loss, but more importantly, the good fats are necessary for brain and cellular metabolism.

Step 7: Exercise three to five times a

week for at least thirty minutes.

Be active! Hike, bike, walk, or play sports.

Get off the couch. Get away from electronics, and turn off the TV. Exercise may keep you in that calorie deficit mode, but it also creates a healthy heart, healthy lungs, muscle mass, strength, and endorphins for a clear and energetic mind.

Step 8: D rink water and eliminate

carbonated beverages.

Keeping your body hydrated helps your weight loss journey, but even more importantly, it creates a healthy environment for your long-term health. Carbonated beverages do not hydrate.

Step 9: Sleep.

Sleep is critical for weight loss, but studies also show that good, adequate sleep leads to a longer life and improves the immune system.

Make up your mind, and spring into action. Make changes you can sustain long term.

Make this a journey that will take you to your ultimate destination: a healthy lifestyle!

How Often Should I Have My Estate Plan Reviewed?

By Thomas J. Bayles, JD, MBA Although a comprehensive estate plan should not require frequent extensive review, we recommend that a periodic review of your estate plan is made to ensure your plan is still in compliance with the law and your personal or financial situation has not changed. The rule of thumb in the industry is that you review your estate plan every year and that an estate planning attorney reviews your estate plan every three years.

There are several events that may trigger the necessity to make changes to your estate plan:

• federal tax law changes

• state law changes

• marriage or divorce

• birth or adoption of a child

• death of a child

• change in marital status of a child

• death of a spouse

• change in health or mental capacity of you, your spouse, or a beneficiary

• increase or decrease in personal wealth

• change in employment or state of residence

• receipt of substantial inheritance or gift.

Is there a need to change your fiduciaries? The death of an individual nominated in your estate plan to serve as a personal representative, guardian, or trustee may trigger a need to change your documents. Has your relationship with one of your fiduciaries changed so that you are no longer comfortable naming them in your documents?

Handwritten changes on estate planning documents can create problems and raise issues: Were the handwritten changes in the deceased’s handwriting, was the decedent competent, and/or was the decedent under undue influence? The cost to prove these issues in court will far exceed the cost of a properly drafted codicil to your will or amendment to your trust.

A review of your estate planning documents by an estate planning attorney will provide peace of mind and should result in your assets passing to the beneficiaries you identify in the manner and at the time you would like the beneficiaries to receive them.

ProvenLaw, PLLC /Thomas J. Bayles has actively provided legal advice in trusts, estates, and taxes in Southern Utah for over eighteen years. Please visit our web site www.provenlaw.com or call 435-688-9231. The information in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be construed as legal advice.

About the Author Thomas J. Bayles is an attorney at ProvenLaw, PLLC. The company name is new to the St. George market, but Mr. Bayles has been an attorney in St. George, practicing in estate planning and business succession planning for over twenty years. ProvenLaw is a legal group providing trust, estate, tax planning and litigation, probate, trust administration, and business succession planning in the state of Utah. ProvenLaw exceeds our clients’ expectations by offering unmatched expertise, client service, and quality work. With more than ninety years of collective experience, ProvenLaw promises consistency, knowledge, clarity, constant communication, resolution, and peace to our clients. If you would like to visit with us about your planning, please visit our website at provenlaw.com, or give us a call at 435-688-9231.

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 51

A

t ar e H e t a Compassion t ar e H us o e g is a Coura

By Brigit Atkin

About the Author Brigit Atkin–Brigit of Brightworks helps improve the lives of others facing challenges and difficulties. She is certified in the SimplyALIGN™ method and was trained by founder Carolyn Cooper herself. For more information, visit www. brightworksbybrigit.com.

52 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

I have noticed that many of my clients who have a hard time recovering from setbacks carry a similar false belief: I am too sensitive to heal. Because this pattern in the thought process is so common, I feel I should address it. Having this belief implies that a sensitive, compassionate, loving person is a weak person, and this notion is completely false! In fact, I would say the opposite is true: a sensitive person is actually a very strong person. A kind, compassionate person is actually a person of courage and confidence.

Our childhood heroes are often portrayed as fierce warriors.

While it is true that a soldier exemplifies immense courage in battle, in everyday life, consistent bravery is displayed by the unassuming person who returns an unkind gesture with a smile. It is easy to fire back a sharp retort at an offending person, but it is quite difficult to take the higher road and give a kind word to an intended hurt.

We are living in a time of division—a time when it is very easy to judge another, to ridicule those who proceed through life differently than we do. Right now, it takes a conscious effort to show compassion.

problems, if left unchecked. An unkind heart will drive good people out of your life and will chase love away.

5. You have the power to choose. No matter the circumstance or the actions of others, you always have the power to choose your thoughts, attitude, and actions.

6. Your heart knows. Scientists call this “heart knowing.” They have studied it and proven that the heart literally knows when something is going to happen before it occurs. The heart knows before the brain does. It knows before the eyes have a chance to see. Take care of your heart! If you nurture love and compassion, you will strengthen this muscle—this wonderful gift of life, love, and knowing.

7. Journal your hurts and frustrations. Get them out! As you do so, you’ll notice some of your subconscious false beliefs; you’ll be able to call them out. As you get the dark emotions and feelings outside of you, you’ll allow for healing. I can’t stress enough how powerful this exercise is.

By showing kindness and mercy, we become a strong and united family, community, and nation. Compassion inspires us to engage with our fellow sojourners in this life with greater and greater empathy. It mirrors back to each individual our shared humanity and reminds us that each soul is equally deserving of kindness. A compassionate heart reveals the essential bonds shared between all people and inspires the willingness to see the divine beauty within each soul.

I remember last March when everyone came out of the twoweek quarantine. People were kind! We held the door for each other, and we showed compassion in our eyes for each other. Do you remember that, too? Sadly, we’ve lost a lot of that. Now, I often see contempt, disconnect, and complacency where I used to see love, concern, and empathy.

8. See yourself and each person you encounter as a divine soul.

We are of infinite worth, and we are more than we often are portrayed by the world. When one suffers, we will all likely suffer on some level. We are all connected.

You are fully capable of being kind, compassionate, strong, and resolute—all at the same time. I challenge you to nurture and exercise this amazing ability within your heart. As you do so, I promise you you will feel stronger in your body, you will open the door of healing within yourself, and you will find joy even in the sorrows of life. Try it. It takes courage. I dare you.

Let me make a clarification: Being compassionate does not mean being a doormat. Understanding this dispels the false belief about being too sensitive for one’s own good. A compassionate person starts first with caring for Self and has healthy boundaries in his or her interactions and relationships.

A person with a compassionate heart will find the courage to move forward, especially in times of uncertainty and turmoil. If you find yourself struggling to be compassionate or kind, you likely are dealing with a closed heart caused by your own painful experiences.

Listed below are some tips that can help with this struggle.

Practicing these exercises will help you find room in your heart to more fully enjoy this sometimes treacherous journey on earth.

1.

Find something in your hardship for which to be grateful— sincerely and genuinely grateful. This is key, and this is important.

2. Ask yourself quality questions about the source of your troubles so that you find the lesson life is trying to teach you. The lesson may be as simple and profound as learning humility, patience, or forgiveness.

3. See this current situation as a challenge or game. What new strategy do you need to employ?

4. Realize some unavoidable truths. A heavy heart will make for a gloomy, unlived life. A bitter heart will literally cause you heart St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 53

54 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2020 11

By East West Health

Are You Ready to Get Your Hiking Knees Back?

Here in southern Utah, we are blessed with an amazing recreational playground.

Have you had the opportunity to hike Observation Point in Zions National Park?

This hike starts on the east side of the park a short distance past Zion Ponderosa. At the conclusion of your hike, you will be rewarded with a breath-taking view of nearly every major attraction in the park. On the hike, you will encounter steep hills as you trek through the picturesque Echo Canyon. You will ascend nearly 2,000 feet, and you will need some water and healthy knees to get you there and back.

If you don’t feel like you could take this hike or participate in a physical activity you previously enjoyed because of knee pain, there is good news: a noninvasive treatment— accepted by most Medicare and TRICARE and some Blue Cross insurances—that might work for you. It’s called Stem Cell Recruitment Therapy®.

Stem Cell Recruitment Therapy® is a revolutionary procedure that rejuvenates, regenerates, and lubricates ailing joints, helping to increase mobility while decreasing pain. Although our bodies have natural, built-in healing capabilities, this therapy helps promote your body’s own healing capabilities for repairing diseased and damaged tissues. By using a combination of growth factors and other endogenously synthesized molecules, it helps to reconstruct and regenerate new, healthy tissue without surgery.

What does this mean for you? It means you can finally enjoy that hike to Observation Point, take some amazing pictures, and make some lasting memories with friends and family!

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 55

S eizeEach F leeting Day

By Richard K. Harder

It seems like only yesterday that I was playing on my high school baseball team, surfing waves along the California coast, completing my college undergraduate and graduate studies, fulfilling an overseas military assignment, getting married, and soon thereafter, watching our three daughters ride their Big Wheels (remember those?) down the sidewalks in front of our Southern California home. These are precious memories.

What seems like moments ago, my wife and I were celebrating our 25th and 50th wedding anniversaries, our daughters’ college graduations and weddings, the arrivals of our grandchildren and their college graduations and marriages, and the births of our greatgrandchildren. These are precious memories as well.

Yesterday’s count, fifty fleeting years ago: My wife and I, three daughters, and a cat. Today’s count, fifty fleeting years later: My wife and I, three daughters, their husbands, fifteen grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, and three dogs within the expanded family.

The fleeting nature of time is similar to how a recorded movie races ahead when pushing the fast-forward mode on the remote control unit. Days, weeks, and years can seem like yesterday. Thus, my message today focuses on the importance of seizing each day and being grateful for every moment of each day.

One of the startling facts of life is that time moves on. It never stops; it is non-recoverable, irreversible, fixed, and limited. We all

56 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

have the same twenty-four hours in a day and the same 168 hours in a week at our disposal—thus the importance of seizing the gift of each quickly vanishing day.

The latin term for “seize the day” is carpe diem, which is a phrase used by the Roman poet, Horace (65 BC) to express the idea that “one should enjoy life while one can.”

Wise planning for the future is a good thing and is a good investment of time. I do this a lot. But doing so at the expense of spending quality time in the moment with our beloved family members, close friends, neighbors, and work associates can be regrettable. Choose to seize every precious moment of every day!

We can begin a renewed commitment to seize each fleeting day and enjoy an enhanced quality of life by approaching each day with optimism, expressing love often to those that we love, expressing gratitude for the beauties of nature, spending more quality time with family members and other loved ones, and being kind, respectful and helpful to others.

Simply speaking, do good things as you seize each and every fleeting day and enjoy an elevated quality of life.

About the Author Richard K. Harder is founder and owner of Lead Smart Consulting LLC (formerly Richard Harder & Associates), a management consulting firm that specializes in leadership and organizational development. He is also an adjunct instructor in the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Dixie State University, St. George, Utah and senior adjunct instructor in the College of Business and Public Management at the University of LaVerne, LaVerne, California. He earned a master’s degree in healthcare management from California State University at Los Angeles and degrees in business and hospitality management from San Francisco State University and the City College of San Francisco respectively. His professional mission is to assist leaders in both domestic and professional settings in their effectiveness at leading highly productive teams as well as improving the quality of life for themselves and others. Richard can be reached by email at richard@ leadsmartconsulting.org.

GET NOTICED

Get your business noticed with a featured sponsorship on the Southern Utah Health & Wellness Directory for only $100 per month.

A Featured Sponsor receives: • Link to website (link of your choice) • Description of business • Spot for videos • Section to list services and amenities • Staff and bio • Photo gallery • Map • Address, phone, website, and email • Social media links • Hours of operation Annual contract required. Monthly online payments will be processed online. $49 one time setup fee.

Southern Utah Health & Wellness Directory has a link on the St. George News website, which has over 400,000 unique users and 145,000 readers each month. By promoting health and wellness articles on their website, St. George News helps drive traffic to this site.

Contact Information:

Call 435-467-2103, email brian10e@icloud.com, or go to www.stghealth.com St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 57

The Date Night Difference

By Chad Olson, LMFT

About the Author Chad is married to the love of his life, Janae, and they have 6 children. He is a licensed marriage and family therapist and is a co-owner of Integrated Counseling and Wellness. He enjoys teaching and coaching his kids in sports.

Can you remember the first date you went on with your spouse? Where did you go? What did you do? As you consider your courtship, can you recall the anticipation you felt looking forward to the next time you would be together?

Do you remember the energy you spent planning the details of your dates? Can you recollect the thoughtfulness you demonstrated as you tried to win your spouse’s heart? As these memories are flooding back, filling you with happiness and fondness, do you also find it ironic that many couples stop dating after they are married?

Most couples intuitively know that if they want to strengthen their relationship with their spouse, spending quality time nurturing that relationship is critically important. But is dating your spouse after marriage just another good idea or is their empirical evidence to support his practice?

Every year, the National Marriage Project presents data regarding different aspects of marriage, and in 2012, they wrote about the significance of date night. Drawing from a nationally representative data set, the researchers reported that couples who continued dating after marriage were 3.5 times more likely to report being very happy in their marriage. That statistic was true for both men and women.

They also reported that these couples had better communication, were more committed, reported higher levels of sexual satisfaction, and were twice as likely to stay married.

So, spending regular, quality time is an empirically-based practice to sustain a happy marriage, but what are the logistics of date nights?

I would suggest three things: 58 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

1. Make it a priority.

I once heard a quote that has always stayed with me: “We will find the time to do the things that are important to us.” If we cherish our relationship, we will make sacrifices to nurture it. Put the date night on the calendar, and don’t let anything interfere with it. I know it’s sometimes difficult to leave the children, but I think you will be a better parent having strengthened your marital relationship. My suggestion is to spend at least a few hours once a week on a date with your spouse.

2. Take turns planning date night.

In my experience working with couples, it is not uncommon for spouses to have differing interests. One likes athletics; the other likes art. One likes movies; the other likes museums. I recommend having couples take turns planning the date, and I encourage spouses not to complain or be critical if their spouse plans something they don’t particularly enjoy. For example, I may plan to go skeet shooting one week, and although it’s not my wife’s favorite activity, she willingly goes with me. The next week, I might find myself watching a chick flick, which is not my favorite activity, but that’s okay because I am with the love of my life. Remember that the date night activity is a means to an end, and the end goal is to facilitate a deeper relationship.

3. Do novel things together.

Neuroscientists have discovered that when couples engage in new and fun activities together, dopamine and norepinephrine are released, which creates pleasure and excitement. Sometimes couples get stuck in a rut with their dating practices. I would suggest that couples choose novel experiences to try together that could range from trying a new sport to trying a new restaurant. Create fresh memories doing novel things together as a couple.

This is a beautiful time of year to live in southern Utah, and there are so many options for date nights! I invite you to make date night a priority. Take turns planning it, and make it novel. Happy dating!

Out with the OLD and in with the NEW

Those of us who live in southern Utah know that spring brings many things: sports, outdoor recreation, festivals, fun events, and of course, everyone’s favorite...the traditional “spring cleaning” that takes place in almost every home.

Even in my own house, spring is the time to clean cabinets and fridges. Out with the old and in with the new!

Tips on How to Spring Clean Your Diet

By Chef Cameron Payne

About the Author Chef Cameron began his career while in culinary school. He went on to work for Wolfgang Puck, Wynn Resorts, and Bellagio in Las Vegas. He moved to Utah and became corporate chef for Biggest Loser Resorts. Working with clients at the resort inspired Cameron to open up a local healthy restaurant, Twisted Noodle Cafe. He is now working with southern Utah residents to eat healthier.

Spring is also the perfect time to clean up your diet. A great start is to remove processed foods—you know, those packaged items that have ingredient lists you can’t even pronounce. Throw them out! If they’re not in your cabinets, you can’t eat them. As a general rule, it’s a good idea to avoid eating things that you can’t pronounce...unless it is quinoa. Quinoa is on our good list.

Step two. With the weather getting hotter, we need to increase our water intake. The average person should be drinking half their body weight in ounces of water each day. With increased physical exercise, you should up the amount you drink even more.

Next? Throw out those artificial sweeteners! As bad as sugar is for the body, artificial sweeteners are even worse. More and more health problems are linked to artificial sweeteners.

With daylight savings time changing, the days stay lighter longer. This often leads to eating later into the evening. Focus on not eating much after 7:00 p.m. It also makes sense for dinner to be the lightest meal of the day.

Start with a big, healthy breakfast. Most people have a tendency to skip breakfast, but most of the people who skip breakfast are not slim. Your metabolism doesn’t really kick in until you feed it. Your body is like a vehicle; it needs fuel! Feed your body like you feed your car. (Not literally...refined petroleum does little to improve one’s health.) Lunch should be your second biggest meal, and dinner should be your smallest, lowest carbohydrate meal of the day. You really don’t need to fuel your machine just to go to sleep.

Smoothies are a great drink during the spring and summer seasons, especially as a dinner replacement. If you are making the smoothie yourself, watch out for the number of calories you are putting in it. Read the back of the protein powder bottle, and opt for a low-sugar, quality protein powder. If you are buying your smoothie from a store, buyer beware; not all smoothies are calorically equal.

One local cafe has smoothies ranging from 240 calories to 2200 calories. You never know how many calories you are taking in unless you do a little research.

Here’s a quick and easy smoothie recipe I use that is also kid friendly: Peanut Butter Banana Smoothie 2 cups unsweetened vanilla almond milk 2 cups ice 1/3 cup powdered peanut butter 6 ounces bananas (about 4 medium bananas) 1 scoop vanilla protein powder 2 tablespoons honey Add ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth.

Yields about 4 cups (2.5 servings) Serving size: 12 ounces Approximately 205 calories per serving

Get a healthy start to the spring and summer seasons by taking time today to give these spring cleaning tips a try. Happy cleaning!

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 59

The FACs of Dog Allergies

By Dr. Clayton Barton, DVM, Washington Family Veterinary Clinic

This winter has felt more like spring! Here is southern Utah, weeds and grass are popping up everywhere. I’m afraid it’s going to be a long allergy season this year, not just for us humans but also for our dogs. “You mean, dogs can get allergies, too?” you might ask. Unfortunately, allergies are very common in dogs of all breeds and backgrounds.

Atopy

About the Author Dr. Barton attended Southern Utah University, majoring in zoology with a minor in chemistry. In 1998, he was accepted into the Veterinary Training Program at Mississippi State University, College of Veterinary Medicine and graduated in 2002.

How do I know if my dog has allergies?

Atopy in dogs is also known as inhalant allergy. The main inhalant allergens are tree pollens, grass pollens, weed pollens, molds, mildew, and house dust mites. Many of these occur seasonally, such as ragweed, cedar, and grass pollen. Others, such as molds, mildew, and house dust mites, occur year round. When humans inhale these allergens, the allergy manifests mainly with respiratory signs, but in most dogs, the allergy manifests mainly with itchy skin (pruritus). The dog may rub its face, lick its feet, and scratch the underarms. Most dogs start showing signs between one and three years of age, and affected dogs will often react to several allergens.

The three most common types of dog allergies in southern Utah are F–A–C: food allergy, atopy or inhaled allergy, and contact allergy.

Contact Allergy

With dogs, the most common symptom associated with allergies is itching of the skin, either localized or general. In some cases, the symptoms involve the respiratory system, with coughing, sneezing, and/or wheezing. Sometimes, there may be runny discharge from eyes or nose. In other cases, the symptoms affect the digestive system, resulting in vomiting and diarrhea.

Food Allergy

Food allergy or food hypersensitivity can develop to almost any protein or carbohydrate component of food. It most commonly develops in response to protein of the food of a particular food origin; dairy products, beef, wheat gluten, chicken, chicken eggs, lamb, and soy are commonly associated with food allergies in dogs. Food allergy can develop at almost any age and may produce clinical signs, including itching, digestive disorders, and respiratory distress.

For more information about pet allergies or to make an appointment for your pet, call Washington Family Veterinary Clinic at 435-627-1300.

60 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

Contact allergy is the least common type of allergy in dogs. It results from direct contact to allergens found in flea collars, pesticides, grasses, or materials like wool or synthetics used in carpets or bedding. If the dog is allergic to these, there will be skin irritation and itching at the points of contact, usually the feet and stomach. Identification and removal of the allergen often solves the problem.

It is also important to remember that a dog may have multiple types of allergies, such as both food allergy and atopy. If you believe that your dog (or other pet) may have allergies, make an appointment with your veterinarian today.

Your Dream Home Is Closer Than You Think

Call Brendan Dalley Today (435) 703-3351 brendan@envisionhomeloans.com www.ApplyWithDalley.com NMLS # 2026049 Company NMLS # 1943827 www.envisionhomeloans.com

Is There a Solution to Your

Allergy Riddle?

By Koby Taylor, PharmD, Fusion Pharmacy

62 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

#FusionIsBetterMedicine

Does your nose quiver at the scent of flowering trees? Do your sinuses close with every breeze? Do you feel uneasy, and do your eyes water when you see the cotton floating in the air like snow? Does your head fill with fog and your chest feel clogged? Does your skin go bumpy, and do your eyes get runny? Do you reach for the same old remedy to help you a little only to find you still haven’t solved your allergy riddle?

You are not alone!

Solving the allergy riddle can be one of life’s biggest mysteries. Some seasonal allergy sufferers can get by with over-the-counter medications and some cannot. Because everyone is different and every year poses new challenges with pollens, pollutants, and weather conditions, you may need to shake up your routine so that you can enjoy every season.

Whether you’re a chronic or a seasonal allergy sufferer, there are a host of over-the-counter remedies that most of you are accustomed to using as well as quite a few remedies of which you might not be aware.

Let’s jump in!

Many people who prefer and can get relief with over-the-counter medications have made a switch to an herbal supplement called D-Hist.

Created by one the nation’s leading supplement makers, D-Hist has helped countless numbers of people get relief without the side effects that some medications can have. D-Hist is a plant/herb based product that also contains vitamin C.

Have you ever tried a nasal rinse?

Nasal rinses are particularly helpful for rehydrating your nasal passages and sinuses, and they also aid in getting those pesky pollen, dust, and mold particles out of your airways! If your routine includes allergy medication, combining it with a nasal rinse can prove to be extremely beneficial. If you are a bit scared of running liquid through your nose, you do not need to be afraid!

Nasal spray: It’s different from a rinse.

Nasal sprays are designed to help with inflammation and open up nasal passages. Many allergy sufferers find that they are lost when it comes to choosing the right one. This is usually the issue with most over-the-counter medications. By asking questions and getting feedback from your pharmacist, you will be able to choose the over-the-counter medication that could work for you. Since some nasal sprays contain medication, they do not “flush” the sinus of particles like a sinus rinse. Rather, they are designed to “deposit” moisture and/or medications.

Nasal nebulizer with a kick!

Chronic allergy and rhinitis sufferers know how beneficial a nasal nebulizer is, but for those of you who don’t know, a nasal nebulizer is very similar to a breathing nebulizer. The difference is that you inhale the moisture and medication through your nose rather than your mouth. A nasal nebulizer is perfect for delivering medication deep within the sinus cavity.

Topical creams for itchy and irritated skin.

Skin inflammation is not uncommon for allergy sufferers. The difference between stopping the itch and keeping it at bay will depend on what product you use and sometimes, on what other medication you’re also taking. Some oral medication can cause itchiness or irritated skin. There are many options that contain corticosteroids and many options that do not.

Patients with eczema will often experience heightened inflammation during allergy season. A pharmacist could examine your current medications and discuss whether a customized compounded cream might be right for you. A compounding pharmacy can create this specialized product and add soothing, medicating ingredients you wouldn’t otherwise be able to find overthe-counter.

The Crème de la crème: Sublingual drops— an at home allergy miracle!

If you’ve ever had allergy shots or know of someone who has, you may want to look at this alternative. Sublingual immunotherapy drops (drops you place under your tongue) are taken daily without leaving the comfort and convenience of your own home. What makes these drops so spectacular is that they work for both seasonal and chronic allergy sufferers. They’re designed to build your immunity to allergens by desensitizing your body to environmental allergens (pollens, dust, mold, pets) and can be used for food allergies (egg, wheat, nuts, and more). Many allergy sufferers have had great success with this type of immunotherapy and have realized time and cost savings benefits, as well.

To find out if sublingual immunotherapy could be an option for you, talk to your doctor, allergist, or pharmacist. They will provide you with information about this type of therapy and help you determine whether it is the right fit for you.

Want to know more?

How about free education on allergies, allergy treatments, nasal nebulizers, and the ins and outs of our sublingual allergy drops? I encourage you to go to www.FusionSpecialtyPharmacy.com/allergy/. We call this our Allergy Summit, and it will provide you with my expert advice and the advice of four other medical providers!

Fusion Pharmacy has two locations to choose from: our Santa Clara location off of Canyon View Drive and our St. George location at the Riverfront Medical Center.

Please visit our website for store hours and addresses, and if you would like to make an appointment with me, please call (435) 703-9680 or visit our website at www.FusionSpecialtyPharmacy.com. We look forward to helping you and your family with your allergy riddle!

About the Author Koby Taylor, PharmD, is the owner and pharmacist of Fusion Pharmacy. Working as a retail pharmacist early in his career, Koby began to see that pharmacy patients needed to have access to available alternative medications. He realized that pharmacy in its truest form is compounding, and he wanted to be able to provide patients with customized medications. He also desired more personalized interactions with patients in order to truly help their health and wellbeing. To fulfill his passion for improving the health of patients and educating them about compounding, Koby opened the doors of Fusion Pharmacy in 2013. Today, Fusion is nationally accredited with PCAB and NABP. It is licensed in and ships to 27 states. Fusion is proud to have two locations to better serve the southern Utah community. Koby graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in molecular biology in 1995 and from the University of Utah with his Doctorate of Pharmacy in 2000.

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 63

This Year is Yours!

By Matt Eschler

I thought that we could put 2020 to rest and wake up in a brand new world where travel could happen, mask free shopping could be a new reality, and the news would be cheerful to watch. So far, it has not turned out quite like I had hoped. Many of you are feeling the same way. The fear of COVID-19, the constraints of enduring restrictions, and the uncertainty of the economy are discouraging at best and depressing at worst.

I am going to give you five solid, fail-proof tips on how you can manage your mental health as you navigate through today’s unfamiliar landscape. While your favorite of these tips may need to be repeated numerous times, collectively, they will help you thrive amidst the chaos that is swirling around you.

Tip One: Connect with loved ones.

If we could remember that sadness and anxiety thrive in isolation, it would drive us to find ways to connect with others. There are so many ways to connect in 2021. We may be asked not to congregate in large groups, but we are able to connect virtually on a screen.

Find an avenue to reach out to others that you have not been with for a while. Catch up and re-connect. Plan a screen-free conversation with those who live with you under the same roof. How long has it been since you shared a face-to-face conversation with no interruptions, no

screens, and no phones? I have spoken to some teenage kids who claim they never talk with their parents without interruption. Make a point in 2021 to have a set amount of uninterrupted, face-to-face time with those you care about.

Tip Two: Commit to never procrastinate.

Stop yourself from putting things off. Make it a goal to always plan a start time for projects, tasks, and important things you need to do.

Honor your start time plan. Make sure you are not overbooked with responsibilities, and plan to keep your word with yourself regarding start times for your to-do list. This plan for not procrastinating will help with your foundation of resilience and sense of security. Instead of having the nagging feeling of stress about what you’re putting off for later, you will feel a sense of security and accomplishment.

Tip Three: Let go of regrets.

Regrets that we hold onto will begin to weigh us down. In fact, carrying regrets can become so global that we begin to say things like “I never do anything right,” or “I can’t look forward to anything good.”

We can develop global negative beliefs about ourselves like “I don’t really have any strengths.” Letting go of regret as we move forward is a necessary tool to keep in our mental health tool bucket. A pathway to letting go of regret utilizes three powerful steps:

Doing something that falls outside your normal routine, something that is uncomfortable but good for you, will open up those pathways of progress.

64 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

1. Own the regret. Sit with it; give your regret a voice to teach you something.

2. Identify what the regret taught you. Do you need to make a small change or do you need to seek forgiveness?

3. Do what your regret requires you to do. Make a plan to repair the regret. If you regret not having date nights with your spouse, have a date night. You get the idea. While it may feel uncomfortable, living with regret is far worse for your mental health.

Tip Four: Be a tourist in your own town.

When was the last time you walked around your own hometown?

This tip can accomplish several healthy things for you. If you choose a sunny Saturday afternoon to wander around your hometown, your exposure to the sunshine will provide you with essential vitamin D. The exercise will stimulate good feelings, and connecting with a spouse or other loved ones while going for a walk is super positive.

While practicing good hygiene and social distancing, you can explore your hometown all year long. Plan a fifteen minute adventure all the way to a day date with someone you want to spend time with.

Tip Five: Do one thing a day that is outside your comfort zone.

We thrive when we progress. While many of us are living under various COVID-19 restrictions, we may begin to feel stifled from losing past avenues of growth. Doing something that falls outside your normal routine, something that is uncomfortable but good for you, will open up those pathways of progress. Here are some ideas you may want to consider: • Think about someone who has caused you harm and forgive them.

• First thing in the morning, pray or meditate. During your prayer or meditation, ask to be guided to someone that needs service.

• Discover a new hobby that is possible this year. Make this new hobby stretch your mind or imagination in some way.

• Learn something new.

These five tips put power and healthy control back in your court in ways that you can manage, giving you opportunities to be in control of your destiny amidst the chaos that is largely outside of your control.

Your life will be enriched, and you will alter the pathways that lead to anxiety and depressed moods.

If you have a success story to tell me about one of these tips, check in with me by emailing matteschler@integratedcw.com. Have a fantastic 2021!

About the Author Matt lives in St. George, Utah, where he and his wife, Chris, are enjoying their life with each other.

Since their children have grown up and moved out to pursue their dreams, Matt and Chris travel the world. They want to visit 200 countries before they are done. Matt and Chris are active in their community and enjoy working out, training for marathons, and spending time participating in numerous activities with their adult children. Matt received a PhD in psychology. He is focused on the arena of resolving personal conflicts and improving interpersonal relationships. In addition to his doctorate degree, Matt has earned a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy, studied criminal justice and received a category one license with Peace Officer Standards and Training, and received a degree in the Arts of Business Management. Matt is a professor at Dixie State University and hopes to be part of the positive growth of southern Utah.

St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 65

Believe

By Noelle Sampson, Desert Hills High School Student

Every person has a passion—that certain something that a person can’t live without. Ballet is my passion, and it has been for the past twelve years. I have danced at Westside Studio of Performing Arts since I was young. As a ballet dancer, I have learned how to work hard, make long-lasting friendships, and be resilient. But one thing I have always struggled with is self-confidence.

From a young age, I compared myself to others. For some dancers, comparison can help them work harder or encourage them to try something new. The comparison I liked to take part in was more like the companion of negative self-talk. In dance class, I would watch other girls and tell myself that I wasn’t as good as they were and that I never would be. I was constantly corrupted by my own negative thoughts about myself. Regardless of these thoughts, I knew this little negative whisper in my head could never stop me from dancing...or so I thought.

During my senior year, my dedication to dance was tested when Nutcracker season approached. Every year, Westside Studio puts together a production of the Nutcracker ballet, and I have participated in it for many years. Bigger roles are offered to senior dancers, and one role I really wanted was the flower soloist.

The negative whispers in my head kept reminding me that if I didn’t get the solo part, I might as well quit because I was never going to be good enough. Auditions came and went, and I hoped for the best but wouldn’t allow myself any more than that. When the cast list was finally posted, I searched it, looking for the role of flower soloist, and there, typed in neat and perfect letters, was my name. I could not believe it! I had reached my goal! I was so excited and could not wait 66 www.saintgeorgewellness.com

in Yourself to get into the studio and start dancing.

This happy excitement did not last long, however. Rehearsals proved to be quite difficult. I had a hard time perfecting the choreography and kept comparing myself to the other two girls that got the part as well. About a month into rehearsals, the whispers became louder.

Even when making small mistakes, I kept About the Author criticizing myself and asking why I wasn’t Noelle Sampson is a senior good enough. at Desert Hills High School where she serves as the After rehearsal one day, I was dancing National Honor Society around for fun when my thoughts led president and the seminary me to imagine a world where I could president. She spends most no longer dance. And then it hit me...I of her time dancing, playing danced because I loved to dance! I danced the violin, babysitting, and hanging out with friends. for me, and that was all that mattered!

Noelle’s future plans include A few months later, as I was preparing attending college and to step onto the stage as the flower soloist becoming a nurse. in the Nutcracker, I pushed aside all of my negative self-talk and comparison. I felt amazing as the familiar music started to play, and I crossed the stage to perform my solo. I will never forget that feeling! I was not dancing to be the best; I was dancing because it was my passion.

My performance wasn’t perfect, but as I took my bow, there was not even the smallest negative thought in my mind.

1098 E. Riverside Drive, St George, Utah 84790 (435) 628-1100 | UTAHOMS.COM

IS IT TIME TO GET YOUR WISDOM TEETH REMOVED?

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT WISDOM TOOTH REMOVAL

Dr. Shawn B. Davis Board Certified Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

•

When a wisdom tooth is impacted, it will need to be removed by Dr. Davis.

•

Impacted wisdom teeth are diff icult to clean susceptible to tooth decay, recurring infections, and gum disease.

•

It is best to have wisdom teeth removed sooner rather than later.

•

Wisdom teeth are typically removed during the late teens or early twenties.

•

Dr. Davis will let you know what to expect post-surgery so you can have a comfortable, eff icient healing process.

VOTED BEST OF SOUTHERN UTAH

BEST MEDICAL FACILITY

BEST ORAL & MAXILLOFACIAL SURGEON

BEST DOCTOR St. George Health & Wellness Magazine | March/April 2021 67

Jason W. Hendrix, MD, FAAO Cataract & LASIK Surgeon

D. Snow Slade, MD, FAAO Cataract & Glaucoma Surgeon

Nicholas Behunin MD, FAAO Cataract & Cornea Surgeon

WE’VE MOVED!

Come visit us at our NEW location!

Marcos Reyes, MD Cataract, Refractive, and Glaucoma Surgeon

Sherine Smith, PA-C Physicians Assistant

88 www.saintgeorgewellness.com 68 www.saintgeorgewellness.com