Friday, July 31, 2009

STRESS CHEMICALS CAN BE ANGER CHEMICALS

It appears that chemicals that are released into the brain during times of stress also lower the threshold for acts of violence which, if acted out, release more stress hormones into the brain. This conclusion is based upon a study of the behaviour of rats’ brains when certain areas are stimulated.

The researchers, publishing their findings in Behavioral Neuroscience, noted that human brains function similarly to rat brains. They speculate that their findings explain why someone who has had a bad day at work may take it out on family members. They also note that the cycle can be broken by pro-active measures to combat the stress response, either through a relaxation procedure or through medication.

Thursday, July 30, 2009

REDUCE KNEE PAIN WITH ACUPUNCTURE

In the largest study of its kind, research at the Center for Integrative Medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine, determined that acupuncture treatments were effective in alleviating the symptoms of arthritis. The study, reported in the Annals of Internal Medicine, involved 570 persons over 50 years of age with arthritis in the knees, who participated in the research for six months. One control group received “sham” acupuncture treatments. The other control group received the Arthritis Self-Help course, developed by the Arthritis foundation and a proven method for helping arthritis sufferers.

Differences between the groups were clearly visible by the eighth week of the study. By the end of the program, those receiving true acupuncture treatments had experienced a 40 percent gain in knee function and a similar reduction in knee pain.

Wednesday, July 29, 2009

MULLEIN HELPS MAN AND ANIMAL

Forest fires south and west of Vernon have been 85 per cent contained with the help of diligent workers from Alberta. More than 20,000 people had been evacuated to Vernon but now have permission to return to their homes as the fires move north. Heat records are still being broken in this area and people are being advised to stay indoors unless it is absolutely necessary to go outside. Road workers should apply sunscreen every two hours (to avoid sunburn that could lead to skin cancer.) Drinking plenty of water is important, especially for those working on the highways.

A letter to the editor of Venture Inward tells of an experiment with the tall Mullein plant that has a sheaf of small yellow flowers at the top. See “The Herb Book by John Lust,” available at your Library. Edgar Cayce - fondly remembered as “The sleeping Prophet,” had recommended it for treating melanoma. A reader from Hunt, Maryland, tells of an experience that helped both man and animal. “An older friend in his 60’s had been diagnosed with skin cancer on his nose, and surgery was set for six weeks in the future. I read the article to him on the phone. He immediately went to his health food store and started using mullein daily. Six weeks later and time for his surgery, they found him to be free of skin cancer.

But something else happened. I thought about my sweet ancient female cat who had an inoperable tumor in her right nasal passage for two years and the last 6 months had a discharge that made it difficult to breathe. Still with a quality of life, affectionate, and eating well I decided to try Mullein on her. I gave her 3-4 drops twice a day in a feeding system with a little water. Almost immediately the nasal discharge ceased and easier breathing ensued. She still has the tumor but has improved quality of life and now runs around chasing her toys.”

Friday, July 17, 2009

HONOURED WITH AN INTERNATIONAL KNIGHTHOOD

In the July, 2009 issue of the Senior Connector, published in Kamloops, B.C., a front page article gives a brief story about Helen Krueger, who spent 52 years in Africa as a teacher, tooth extractor, and international mentor. Her book cover pictures her tooth extraction procedure as the patient sits on a small stool which serves as a dental chair. Huge trees above bring the cool breeze of shade on a hot day. Her patient has been suffering with an infected tooth for days. During the procedure, two of her lady friends look on for comfort since no anaesthetic is provided. A swish of salt water is used as a disinfectant. All three handsome black ladies look lovely in their beautifully patterned robes. Creative artists, the women of the community can weave their own fabric and sew their own clothes. The nearest dentist is 30 miles away but there is no way to travel except walking and no money to pay the dental bill if they could get there.

Helen said that on one occasion the lady was so grateful to finally be relieved of her toothache and the suffering she had endured for days she insisted that she had a little gift for her. She came running back holding an egg. Helen said it was a warm egg so she gave it back to her client and said, "Put this precious gift back under your hen and it will soon give you a cute little chick."

The third picture was taken at the knighthood ceremony shortly before Helen left Africa for her return to Canada. Her younger sister and her husband in Kamloops had a place all ready for her retirement back in Canada. He jokes that they "helped her find her way back into the 21st century, kicking and screaming." She did long to return to Africa but now after nine years back in Canada she is very happy here. Today, in her 88th year she is recovering from surgery when her femur (the thigh bone) broke after a fall with her walker.
Another photo shows her with one of her mentors, Helene Gillenette, a close friend in Kamloops. Read more at: www.seniorconnector.com.

Thursday, July 16, 2009

DOUGHNUTS BY MABEL ROLLIS DAVIS

My husband's mother made great doughnuts. They were always there at a picnic as well as for other events. From her cookbook of 19ll, here is her recipe. In fact her doughnuts were part of our honeymoon breakfast in l949 at Banff, Alberta. We had made reservations at Dorking, an early version of bed and breakfast but at that place one brought their own breakfast, or found a cafe. We had Mom's doughnuts for our breakfast. In 1956 there was a downturn and we moved to California where my husband found work at General Motors Parts Division and later worked as a technician. They spent winters with us often in California and she always brought her special doughnuts for a treat. Fat and starch boiled together is not easy to digest for me but my husband loved and appreciated them.

Recipe No. l
2 cups buttermilk; 3 eggs; Beat together well; l cup sugar, l scant teaspoonful soda. Flour to make a soft dough.

Recipe No. 2
4 eggs, 2 cups sweet milk and one of sour milk, l, l/2 cups sugar, l/2 teaspoonful soda mixed in sour milk; 2 teaspoonfuls baking powder, l tablespoonful butter.

The type of fat used to boil the doughnuts was not specified. She included a third doughnut recipe that calls for 3 eggs, l cup sugar; l l/2 cups sweet milk, 2 tablespoons lard, 2 teaspoons baking powder, with cinnamon or nutmeg to taste. Flour to make soft dough; do not knead.

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

ANGEL CAKE

This is my Mother-in-Law's Angel Cake from her 1911 cookbook. The last line on the page of her Buster Brown cookbook squeezes in these words, "This is the best recipe found after several. A perfection cake." It appears that while she was baking her Angel Cake, the Titanic was sinking and Heaven's angels were welcoming souls into paradise.

Put into 1 tumbler of flour, l teaspoonful cream of tartar. Then sift it 5 times. Sift also 1 glass and a half of white powdered sugar. Beat to a stiff froth the whites of 11 eggs, stir the sugar into the eggs by degrees; very lightly and carefully, adding in 3 teaspoonfuls of vanilla extract.
After this add the flour, stirring quickly and lightly. Pour into a clean, bright tin cake-dish, which should not be butter-lined. Bake at once in a moderate oven about 40 minutes, testing it with a spoom' stint. (the word "stint" is partly torn.) When done let it remain in the cake tin, turning it upside down; with the sides resting on the tops of 2 saucers, so that a current of air will pass under and over it.
Baked to perfection by Mabel Rollis Davis

Tuesday, July 14, 2009

SCHOOL DAYS OF OLD

Searching all evening for an anthology book that had an old fashioned recipe for a mosquito repellent, I found a package that looked like books. Indeed it was and one of them was my mother-in-laws recipe book. The other book opened the yellowed pages of her Standard School Series, size 6 x 8.5 scribbler dated February 26, l907. Her large backhand writing shows the clearly formed letters of a very creative spirit. Her "tent" shaped letter "t" confirms she has a home loving heart. The right flying "t-bars" shows speed and efficiency. She seems to be copying an assignment. It might be interesting to see what that lesson was about. Her assignment l02 years ago.

GEOGRAPHY, MICHIGAN.

l. What is the chief occupation of southern Michigan? Name 4 products.

2. Name 2 important industries in central and northern parts?

3. Name 3 minerals and what part of the supply comes from Michigan?

4. Locate St. Mary's Canal and tell about its commerce.

5. Locate Detroit, for what it is important for? Why? Name 4 many.

6. Name 4 other cities and tell for what each is noted for.

In number 5, she may have wanted to say "Name how many?"
She is obviously writing quickly.

Tomorrow we'll take a look at her "Buster Brown" 8.5 x 6.5 inch recipe book. The tattered edges of the first few pages are flying around. It's Angel Cake.

Monday, July 13, 2009

THE HELPFUL IMMIGRANT WHO COULD SAVE YOUR LIFE

Among the huddled masses, That from Europe came,
A tiny helpful visitor, Staked its claim to fame,
Somewhere in storage passage with, No ticket by its side,
It threw a shoot and anchored root, In new lands, far and wide.

Content to live in wastelands, Its golden flower thrived,
In backyard tenement clutter 'twas, Just thrilled to be alive.
On barren soil or homestead, This hardy alien grew,
Its seedballs - games for children, To scatter joy anew.

Unlike the dashing rosebud, Whose thorns a child may fear,
The friendly dandelion waves, A stately stem with cheer.
Strong winds and rain may damage, Other dainty flowers,
This sturdy willing immigrant, Stands tall through every shower.

"Just weave me into garlands, I am a friendly flower,
To bed I go at sunset, And rise a decent hour.
If you're hungry, you can eat me, As food I am complete,
I travel through America, A friends to all I meet.

If on your lawn I've landed, Forgive me, if you please,
My golden crown turns snowy white, And soars with every breeze,
To carry on as nature planned, Though once despised by man,
For we can bring life-saving cures, Of ills throughout the land.
Like you, I love America, My new home stem to tip,
Sharing nourishment and beauty, I'm grateful for my trip.

Sunday, July 12, 2009

PRAIRIE SOUNDS OF OLD

Our present day symphony of sound has us almost in overload with news and traffic that make it hard to sort everything out. The daily grind of commerce with 18 wheelers keeping the highways busy as bikers blend with vacationers. Cell phones in public provide only half the message and texting gives just ring tones. How about turning back in time to the sounds of the prairies, let's make it 80 years ago and I am six years old.

It's a Sunday in July and birdsong fills the air. A family, the parents and six children have just left for a one mile walk to church that meets in the one room prairie school, 10 miles south of Orion, Alberta. The United Church of Canada has provided a student minister for his summer practicum. The meadowlarks and blackbirds are providing travel music. The children have bare feet and enjoy making dusty grooves and tracks on the road. Why bother with the horses, it's their day off. The bridge over the Ketchum Creek has been repaired after nearly washing out in the spring runoff. We all head for a desk with a bench that can seat up to three children. Mrs. Freed begins playing the Doxology on the old organ. Her brother Frank Weeks has a great bass voice and we all sing hymns heartily. Some of the lyrics reflected very happy hearts, for no hailstorms had wiped out our crops that year. Recalling those words "When chariots of wrath their deep thunderclouds form, Dark is its path on the wings of the storm." Children are then sent to their classes. My sister Helen and I go to ours which is held near the entrance behind the pot bellied stove. Ida Weeks (Frank's wife) is our teacher. It would be great to have a tape of her words but it really isn't necessary because she has written it all out upon the face of time that still resonates in the hearts and minds of all who heard and watched her life, and all she said and did. I'll dedicate this little poem to her.

A quiet teacher - always there, Her actions showed the way,
Stitching on the face of time, The Golden Rule each day.
In memory she travels on, Through cyber space and time,
Her tapestry of caring love, That shines with love's design.

And always she could find more threads, To touch each needy heart,
Embossed upon her tapestry, These jewels were her art.
Framed in gold, each action shone, Words not needed then,
Kind actions on the face of time, Her insight daily kenned.
Shining on through space and time, This legacy of love,
Plays a part in many hearts, As symbols of Peace Dove.

Saturday, July 11, 2009

ACUPUNCTURE FOR PEOPLE AND ANIMALS

"In order to understand acupuncture, it is necessary to recognize that for the ancient Chinese, health care was a way of life," says Dr. Knueven. That brings to mind how our health system here is also moving more into preventive medicine. Dr. Knueven explains that the Chinese word Qi (pronounced "Chee") is a substance from which all physical form is composed, the life force energy that flows in a cyclic, orderly course throughout the channels of the body, allowing the normal functioning of organs and tissues.

"Health is the state of harmonious flow of Qi and disease is caused by an interruption in this flow," he continues. "There are 14 main acupuncture channels which act as pathways for the flow of Qi, along which lie the acupuncture points. For example, arthritis. a kidney failure or a limb not moving freely, we can say there is a disturbance of Qi. Acupuncture points are discrete areas on the surface of the body that have unique features. with higher than normal numbers of nerve endings, blood vessels and inflammatory cells - electricity flows more readily at these spots. The Chinese considers the acupuncture points as inlets to the channels. Through these inlets, the flow of Qi can be manipulated and re-balanced, allowing the body to heal itself. Acupuncture can help in the treatment of any medical condition including arthritis, kidney failure, liver failure, thyroid disease, asthma, back and joint injuries, diarrhea, and reproductive problems.

Dr. Knueven DVM works with animals but it works just as well for humans. When applied properly, this holistic approach does not cause side effects, as drugs often do. Some people feel apprehensive thinking the needles may cause pain. He adds that some animals fall asleep during the treatment which may last from 5-45 minutes, depending on the problem being addressed.

"Even in China it is only part of the medical system. If after 8-10 weekly treatments there is no improvement in the patient, it may not be what is going to help. On the other hand, I have many patients who have given it two paws up." adds Dr. Knueven. He is the author of "Stand by Me, A Holistic Handbook for Animals, People, and the Lives They Share." For more information call 800-333-4499,or go to: www.BeaverAnimalClinic.com.

Friday, July 10, 2009

A QUICK MEAL

You arrive home on the hour, we'll say it's ll:00 a.m. or 5 p.m. and need a quick nourishing meal. Both celery and carrot keepers emerge from the frig and the chopping knife goes into action. The C & C couple start simmering while you add a couple of slices from a yam. A friend of mine has given up her favourite and much enjoyed white potato for the low glycemic index of the yam. The broccoli can stay cool in the frig until the next meal or maybe use a couple of florets for the salad. A small raw carrot can join with the greens as well. I recall Kareen Zeboff's cookbook (the yoga guru on CBC) saying that both raw and cooked carrots have different parts to play in digestion. A shake of onion or garlic salt can be added at this time along with a sprinkle of cayenne and that golden yellow turmeric that stimulates the digestion, supports the liver and helps maintain healthy muscles and joints.

While the vegetables simmer a little (according to your liking) the salad greens emerge - lettuce with a few leaves of dandelion cuddle together in my small round food processor and are ready for a whirl. Dried pineapple from the bulk store have been soaked overnight in the frig and a ring is sliced into small bits and placed in the salad bowl. The pineapple enzymes called bromelain also aid digestion, breaks down protein and enhances the absorption of the turmeric. I keep the dried rings of pineapple on hand soaking in the frig since once pineapple is cooked enzymes are lost. A spoonful of any of your favourite nut butters from the frig becomes part of the salad dressing. Or use other salad dressings you may have on hand if you wish. For additional protein, Wild Pacific canned salmon can be added. Then give your creation a new name - Salmon Bisque will do nicely. Any other combinations of vegetables you like can be used of course, like tomatoes, peas, cabbage, corn and string beans. Your digestive system will be happy and you will get a great energy boost and be ready for a walk.

Thursday, July 9, 2009

DIET MYTH DEBUNKED

"Moving into the 21st century, we still seem to be in the Dark Ages when it comes to mainstream medicine's approach to some of our most dreaded diseases and their prevention," says Simone Gabbay, RNCP, a holistic nutritionist in Toronto.

"For example, we were told to prevent heart disease and keep our cholesterol down, we needed to reduce our intake of saturated fats from butter, meat and cheese, and to choose skim milk and fat-free yogurt, and eat egg whites instead of the cholesterol-rich yolks. So we cooked our meeals in refined vegetable oils, used fat-free dressings and swallowed choleterol-lowering statin drugs," she adds.

The results of course show 80 million Americans suffering from heart disease, and 23 million have been diagnosed with diabetes and 57 million with pre-diabetes. Some 59 million Americans are obese. The low-and-refined-fat, anti-cholesterol prescription isn't working! What we needed was a vegetable-based whole-foods diet including fish, fowl, and dairy, with unrefined, unprocessed fats such as olive oil and butter.

Gabbay warns about an excessive intake of starches, especially processed carbohydrates and white-flour products which creates acids in the system, especially when combined with sweets. This creates a glandular imbalance contributing to weight gain and various conditions of ill health.

The findings of the late nutrition researcher, Dr. Weston A. Price, referred to refined, processed, and sugary foods as responsible for the deteriorating health of those who have moved away from a traditional whole-foods diet. Price established that perfect health in humans can only be achieved with nutrient-dense foods. Healthy fats found in fish and chicken, with olive oils and the oils (like flax oil) that need refrigeration are considered among the best. More on Dr. Price's work can be found at www.westonaprice.org.

A heart surgeon, Dr. Dwight Lundell, has performed over 5,000 open-heart surgeries over 25 years confirms that cholesterol (a vital substance produced by the body if not adequately supplied through diet) is not the cause of heart disease. Lundell explains that refined and processed foods have resulted in an epidemic of arterial inflammation leading to heart disease and other health problems. Read about his work and book at www.thecholesterollie.com. Further information on Simone Gabbay, RNCP, can be found at www.edgarcaycediet.com.

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

HISTORY OF DREAMS

It was interesting to learn more about the vast history of dreams as Psychologist Henry Reed took us on a tour showing how many scientific discoveries came into being through dreams. Most of us likely remember how the sewing machine needle pushed the fashion industry into high gear, in the l800s, how the history of the world was changed through the dreams of world leaders, many works of literature were translated and crossed the oceans, and composers through the ages dreamed their music and we can continue to enjoy it today.

He refers us to works by Robert Moss, "The Three 'Only' Things: Tapping the Power of Dreams, Coincidence, and Imagination (New World Library)." In his latest book "The Secret History of Dreaming (World Library), and how this hidden realm has influenced world history.

He gives special mention how some of the nation's "Founding Fathers," whose spiritual aspirations for a new nation were fed by information from these supersensible realms. Moss expresses a wish that the secret history of America should be shared with every schoolchild. Both he and Moss agree that it seems most college psychology books treat dreams as a brain event that digests memories but otherwise has no particular meaning to its contents. It might prove helpful in the material world today if new texts were studied. Reed terse comment "Did our ancestors sail to this continent so everyone could have a mortgage and an SUV in the garage." They clearly had higher aspirations of cooperating together and helping each other in daily activities.

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

LEARNING DISORDERS AND NUTRITION

Behavioural drugs in children and teenagers are being dispensed as more children every year are diagnosed with learning disabilities and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), having difficulties with reading, writing, math and information processing retention. The usual treatment involves mind altering stimulant drugs. If Ritalin helps our children learn, it does so at a terrible cost. Long-lasting side effects include insomnia, headaches, irritability, abdominal pain, excessive sadness or crying, suppression of growth, increased heart rate and blood pressure, nightmares, constipation and skin rash, according to research done at the University of Buffalo and may cause long-term changes in the brain.

With school, home and peer stress, coupled with body and mind stresses with too much processed, refined and sugary foods, mental and emotional health and cognitive function are diminished.

But help is on the way. Nutritionist Simone Gabbay tells us about essential fatty acids, EFA's called that because they cannot be manufactured by the body without the help from whole foods, rich in fresh vegetables, unrefined grains, nuts and seeds. Cold pressed, unrefined vegetable and seed oils are excellent sources and naturally supply EFAs. Flax oil is great added to salad dressings and keep the system smooth as well, better than any laxative. Ocean fish, salmon and mackerel provide similar health benefits. These foods help our children learn, providing proteins, vitamins, minerals and fats to nourish the brain and nervous system and your child can grow and learn without the need for prescription drugs, says Simone Gabbay, RNCP. Her books are available in most libraries and might be an interesting group assignment for students in a school project as they feel increased learning ability. Further information about Gabbay's books can also be found by calling toll free at 1-866-322-8209.

Monday, July 6, 2009

LEARNING MORE EACH DAY

Interesting isn't it, the many ways our bodies use to try teach us. I am just listening to the CBC radio program, "Tapestry" about dreams and how souls and minds work together to get us to pay attention. On the program a teacher tells about the problem of getting through to his students and maintaining order in the classroom. Then a dream comes to him where he enters the classroom and instead of taking charge as usual, he sits among the students. There are a number of meanings to select from this dream. Perhaps the students have something to teach him.

The program "Tapestry" broadcast reports on the book "The Real World of Dreams" This program can be heard again on WWW.CBC.ca/tapestry.

The latest lesson I am being shown is to move more slowly, and not have to zip around and think I must squeeze in one more job for the day. Rushing around isn't really necessary, especially after one has completed three quarters of a century plus ten. I feel better already as this reminder has started taking root. I think of others who have set an example to me. Right now it is of my sister-in-law who moves quietly and gently around her home and things get completed with seeming ease and grace. I'll make "Grace" my word for today. Please remember to tune in again to Tapestry's program of July 5, 2009, with more of the story on dreams.

Sunday, July 5, 2009

AVOID THE NOON SUN

It is best to walk in the early morning hours and return home by ll:00 am. When needing a sunscreen it is good to check at a health store to determine the best variety to use and thus avoid the chemical kind. A doctor once reminded me to wear a wide brim hat especially if you have fair skin.

When I became dizzy returning from a walk I phoned the 811 health line since my doctor was away on holidays. The 811 nurse was very helpful and advised going to a walk-in clinic or the emergency hospital. The walk-in clinics close at 9:00 and had long waiting lines and advised going to the emergency. There was only one client in the waiting room there and I did not have to wait long. During the short wait I saw the Oprah magazine and turned to the health pages. The July 2009 issue had a very interesting article on the subject of feeling dizzy. If no issue can be found there is usually one at the library. A very helpful doctor at the emergency hospital ordered some tests to determine if there might be other causes for feeling dizzy. Looking at my chart, he noticed my age (85) and helped me feel relaxed saying, "Aren't you kinda cheating the reaper a bit here." I take no prescription drugs (or any other kind) and my walk took me home only a few minutes after ll:00 am. I do have very steep hill to climb. Pushing his bike up the hill, a young rider once called over to me saying "I think you have chosen the second highest hill in Vernon for your walk."

Each day there is improvement and I chide myself for the trouble I caused the health system and determine to walk only in the early morning hours.

Saturday, July 4, 2009

MY DREAM ABOUT OPRAH

This dream was dated December 30, l987

I had a dream one evening,
An emblazoned TV name,
Stood out in embossed letters,
Outlined in a golden flame.

Supporting it in printed words,
Was pinned upon her chest,
Announced to all who saw it,
"THE CHIEF," She is the best.

The meaning of this dreamscape,
I pondered for a time,
The face I saw was Oprah,
A chief from Winfrey line.

She who feels the values that,
Need not be monetary,
Perhaps we need a Chief of State,
That every state would carry.

Where folks would take more interest
In heartfelt needs of others,
And change the rushing money game,
For service to our brothers.

Friday, July 3, 2009

SELECTING A TITLE

Writers sometimes find it difficult to select just the right title for their articles, blogs or even their next book. Dan Millman, author of "The Way of the Peaceful Warrior," found it hard to find an umbrella or container for this book. He liked the idea of the warrior in each of us, the courageous part. Then the term, "peaceful warrior," came up and the idea seemed to fit.

Dan shares the story of a man who came up to him after a lecture and said, "I want to do more spiritual practices, but I have a family, a wife, three kids, and a regular job." Later the two men chuckled about it when the man came to realize that his wife and children and work were his spiritual practice. Later, Dan wrote "Everyday Enlightenment," to help people travel with a beacon or lantern, so they could see more clearly, and appreciate what their life experiences have to teach them. In this book he explains the twelve gateways to personal growth, explaining that it is good to follow them in order to better understand and put them in practice. The first gateway is "Discover Your Worth," Self-worth has a deeper value than self-esteem. If, for example one starts with number 4 "Manage Your Money," as the most critical at the moment, and jumps into that gateway, and has not yet realized serious self-worth issues, it would tend to self-sabotage.

Both of these books are available at most libraries, or your local bookstore may have them in stock. More information can be found at 1-800-333-4499, or 1-866-322-8209.

Thursday, July 2, 2009

BREATHING TIPS

As part of the body's fuel system, breathing recommendations for oxygen intake were often given to increase vitality of the body in general, according to Eric Mein, M.D. The most common one was to take several minutes each morning and each evening to combine deep invigorating breaths with gentle stretching. Often, there was the suggestion to alternate nostril breaths. Starting with three or more inhalations through the right nostril for strength and then three or more through the left nostril for the "easing" of the body, which the Cayce material connected with the spiritual. Exhalations are made through the mouth.

In the morning, one is to rise up on the toes and lift the arms above the head with an emphasis on filling the lungs deeply. In the evening, the technique varied, but at times the goal was to empty the lungs and breathing was combined with a forward bending motion.