Professional Education

1996, Bachelor of Sciences, Biological Sciences, University of California at Irvine

2000, Doctor of Chiropractic, Palmer College of Chiropractic- West, San Jose, CA



Yogic Education- Teacher Training Programs

2004- Yoga Works Teacher Training
with Chuck Miller, Maty Ezraty, and Lisa Walford

2005- Advanced Yoga Teacher Training with Erich Schiffmann
at Exhale - Center for Sacred Movement

2005- Saul David Raye’s Holistic Yoga Teacher Training at Santa Monica, CA

Philosophy

The BIG IDEA

By Dr. B.J. Palmer, Developer of Chiropractic
A slip on a snowy sidewalk, in winter, that is a small thing. It happens to million.
A fall from a ladder, in summer, is a small thing. It happens to millions.
A slip or fall produces a subluxation. The subluxation is a small thing
The subluxation produces pressure on the nerve. That pressure is a small thing
The pressure cuts off the flow of mental impulses. That decreased flowing is a small thing.
That decreased flowing produces a dis-eased body and brain. That is a BIG thing to that man.
Multiply that sick man by a thousand, and you control that physical and mental welfare of a city.
Multiply that man by a million, and you shape the physical and mental destiny of a State.
Multiply that man by one hundred and thirty million, and you can forecast and prophesy the physical and mental status of a nation.
So the slip or fall, the subluxation, pressure, flow of mental impulses, and dis-ease are big enough to control the thoughts and actions of a nation.

This man gives an adjustment. The adjustment is a small thing.
The adjustment replaces the subluxation. That is a small thing.
The adjusted subluxation releases the pressure upon the nerves. That is a small thing.
The released pressure, restores health to a man. That is a big thing to that man.
Multiply that well man by a thousand and you step up the physical and mental welfare of a city.
Multiply that well man by a million, and you increase the efficiency of a State.
Multiply that well man by one hundred and thirty million, and you have produced a healthy, wealthy, and better race for prosperity.
SO the adjustment of the subluxation, to release pressure upon nerves, to restore mental impulse flow, to restore health, is big enough to rebuild the thoughts and actions of the world.

The idea that knows the cause, that can correct the cause of dis-ease, is one of the BIGGEST ideas known.
Without it nations fall; with it nations rise.
The idea is the biggest one I know of.

Study Finds Special 'Atlas Adjustment' Lowers Blood Pressure

For the entire article go here.

With millions of people getting amazing results and research project after research project backing the findings, Chiropractic finally gets it's props on the #1 medical web site in the world.

Tens of millions will give this response after reading this research article, “I didn't believe it. Chiropractic is good for the heart?” The proof, however, is in the stethoscope!!!!

Whether or not you have symptoms or a positive tests, you need to find out if your atlas is in it's normal position before it's too late, deadly, and in need of the medical model.

The atlas is the top bone in the spine upon which your skull rests. When you do your Funky Chicken exercises your skull glides on this bone. When you shake your head “NO” your atlas rotates on the bone below, the axis-C2.

When the atlas gets stuck it causes interference to the nervous system, specifically to your BRAIN STEM! All you have to do is do a google search on the brain stem and see how important that area is for FULL BODY FUNCTION! That is why it is vital to get adjusted and keep your joints gliding….not degenerating…thereby allowing your nervous system to function at it's natural level.

For those under Chiropractic care ….. this is truly exciting when you realize that getting adjusted isn't just good for your joints….it's good for your heart..your lungs…your liver…your life! You get the point!

For the first time in history, man is able to scientifically prove what the ancient disciplines taught in their sacred books about improving concentration and decreasing stress. The key to overall physical and mental health lies with the spine!

You may not have even realized that your chiropractic adjustments and yoga practice may be the 2 most important things you do for the health of your body and mind.

As Yoga Sutra 1.2 says, “Yoga is the mastery of the activities of the mind-field” or yoga is about controlling the fluctuations of the mind.” But how do we go about this?

Phenomenal research by Dr. Jeremy Schmahmann, PhD., has shown how healing movement disciplines, such as chiropractic and yoga, are vital for those striving to achieve total health. His work has shown that movement of the spine stimulates a part of the brain, the cerebellum, responsible for coordinating full body movement, thought, feelings, emotions and organ/ immune function.

Specialized receptors located in the joints of the spine, called proprioceptors, get fired when you move the spine, sending a message to the brain.

So what is a proprioceptor? It is a nerve cell found in muscles, tendons and joint capsules which gives information concerning movements, position and alignment of the body. The highest concentration of proprioceptors in the body is in the spine, with the greatest amount being clustered in the upper cervical spine.

When a joint moves, the brain wants to know if the movement was healthy or not. This is huge when you realize that healthy movement of the spine is like ROCKET FUEL for your brain. All those sun salutations are doing just as much for your mind as they're doing for your body!

Now, when joints slam or jam into each other, proprioceptors don't fire. Rather, noiceiceptors, or noxious stimulation receptors, get activated and the stress response is triggered. Your fight or flight response is not triggered by a wooly mammoth or saber-toothed tiger, but by a stuck, jammed, or misaligned joint.

Believe it or not your jammed joints create the same physiological response as being put into a fight or flight situation. Your heart rate quickens, your cardiac output increases, there's a flood of adrenaline, cortisol, and insulin and a laundry list of other negative responses. That's all from a headstand or upward facing dog gone badly or hours slouched over a computer. Who knew?

Removing irritation or noxious stimulation from your spine with a dose of smooth, slow and steady movements will decrease your stress response and allow for a positive integration of your thoughts, feelings and emotions.

Yoga evolved from being a secluded meditative practice in which the yogi's asana arsenal consisted of a comfortable sitting pose, to a complicated system of movement and breath. The yogi's of old knew that if they could minimize the noxious/ noiciceptive input into and within the brain they would be able to decrease the stress response and go deeper into their meditative states. They somehow figured this out without expensive MRI's!

Healthy movement can exponentially improve your physiology and psychology just like Patanjali said. That's why yoga is supreme when it comes to exercising your muscles and your mind. It provides the brain with the most essential nutrient for survival….MOVEMENT OF THE SPINE!

With a peaceful mind and strong body, we are able to enjoy life to the fullest and evolve to greater heights.

If we can continue to evolve mentally, physically and spiritually, then maybe we can usher in a new revolution….THE WELLNESS REVOLUTION! A revolution based on attaining maximum health, healing and wholeness.

In order to experience TRUE HEALTH, one must have wisdom.

A wise person is always learning and asking new questions.

Below are 4 questions created by Dr. James Chestnut of The Wellness Practice that one should meditate and contemplate on.

1. How does the subluxation complex decrease health and vitality and quality of life and how does it increase susceptibility to disease and the accelerated aging process?

2. How does a specific scientific chiropractic adjustment increase health and vitality and quality of life and decrease susceptibility to disease and the accelerated aging process?

3. What lifestyle choices decrease health and vitality and quality of life and increase susceptibility to disease and the accelerated aging process?

4. What lifestyle choices are necessary to increase health and vitality and quality of life and decrease susceptibility to disease and the accelerated aging process?

Chiropractic Care for the Child Athlete

There are some negative opinions in chiropractic regarding contact sports like boxing and football. Some of our colleagues feel these sports should be avoided. Whatever your particular opinion, these sports (pee-wee football, boxing and the like) have been around for decades and are here to stay.

Injuries to children's spines are not unique to contact sports like football or martial arts. They are also seen in non-contact sports like gymnastics and competitive cheerleading. Injuries to the pediatric spine vary according to the specific mechanism of injury. Therefore, the pediatric sports chiropractors knowledge of particular sports is helpful in assessing the care he or she will render.

Development of the normal spinal curves will assist in dissipating compressive forces or loads. However, athletics may induce concussive forces the body cannot adapt to thus resulting in vertebral subluxation complexes.

The common area of injury from a head impact is the mid to lower cervical (C4-C6). The common area of injury from a forces from below, as in falling on the feet or buttocks, is T-9 - L2. Flexion injuries of the spine commonly affect the C4-C6, T5-6 and L1-L2. And one should always check the upper cervical spine.

T. K. Videman, M.D.1 from the University of Helsinki in 1987 found that the slightest hypomobility in diarthrodial joints (facet joints) would cause joint degeneration in 5-7 days, which becomes irreversible in 2-3 weeks. Following 5 weeks of joint fixation, 18 months of care was required for optimal healing which was almost always incomplete.

The sooner we as chiropractors can care for the child athlete, and correct his or her subluxation, the less likely they are to have life long patterns of ill health and who better than the chiropractor to care for these little athletes.

When evaluating a child either on or off the field before applying a chiropractic adjustment, one should be able to objectively evaluate as many components of the vertebral subluxation complex as possible.

The sports chiropractor needs to be aware of the functional uniqueness of the child's spine when doing so. For example, the normal range of motion in a child's spine is greater than that of an adult. This is important to know when assessing a child's spine.

As chiropractors, we must focus on the vertebral subluxations and the dangers of such especially those arising out of sports injuries. We also educate the players, parents and coaches. I also do a chiropractic health orientation and educate coaches and trainers on the cause and the harmful effects of subluxations.

In my presentation, I use the Emmett Smith quote "playing in a football game is like being in 30-40 care accidents" and then I multiply that by the 10 games the kids have each season. I also use this opportunity to show them the benefit of chiropractic care for the athletes, both pre and post game. This clinic is held in my office so the coaches, parents and players have the opportunity to see it first hand.

Whether the children are participating in contact or non-contact sports, a proper chiropractic evaluation by a qualified pediatric chiropractor can keep them in the game and help to minimize if not prevent injuries leading to vertebral subluxations.

MOTION IS LOTION

It should be obvious why it is so important to ensure every child has a properly moving and aligned spine as the spinal joints are the main source of sensory movement stimulation to the brain. If there is subluxation in the spine, movement and therefore essential nutrient delivery to the brain are compromised.

The upper neck has been found to be particularly important to examine because it is the most easily damaged (birth trauma, falls, poor sleeping postures) and it has by far the most movement receptors to stimulate the brain.

These findings have been confirmed by clinical studies performed by both chiropractors and medical doctors. In fact after examining thousands of children one medical researcher concluded that "observations of motor development and manual control of the occipito-atlanto-axial (upper neck) joint complex should be obligatory after every difficult birth". He also states that the upper neck "should be examined and, if required, specifically adjusted … (as) the success of adjustment overshadows every other type of treatment." Of course it does, a specific adjustment is the ONLY way to correct a subluxation!!!

As chiropractors we are all very familiar with this type of work and have all personally seen great results with the care we provide to children.

The problem is that much of society is unaware of the pathogenic potential of subluxation and far too many children are suffering needlessly.

I recommend combining specific adjustments with some sound nutritional advice and some fun yoga exercises to ensure that each child gets the best possible chance to have a healthy body and mind.

Not only does proper spinal movement increase overall health, decrease dis-ease and improve the ability to create feelings of happiness and well-being, it also helps to reduce pain and discomfort and to diminish feelings of anxiety and stress.

When it comes right down to it we are creatures designed for virtually constant movement living in a society that involves almost constant sitting. We are also clearly designed to have properly moving and aligned spines and many of our citizens are unknowingly walking around with subluxation in their spines because they have NEVER HAD A SPINAL HEALTH EXAM!! This is not a healthy combination and the result is that we have a population that is much less healthy and much more sick, tired, and dis-ease ridden than is necessary.

Please get yourselves and the children out and moving around. Everyone will feel better, think better, have a healthier spine, have increased overall health, and enjoy a much greater quality of life. All children (and adults of course) deserve a wonderful quality of life and proper spinal movement is an integral part of this. Motion is lotion, movement is life, and chiropractic delivers so get out there and get those spines moving!!!!

Great News!

The Life Center Chiropractic is now a network provider for Blue Shield and United Health Plans!

No referral Needed!
We do all the paperwork!

Call today and make appointment!

Yogic Anatomy

One could get buried deep in the biomechanics and neurology of the human body. Nevertheless, having a basic understanding of these two subjects can propel you to a higher level of health and connectedness.

It doesn’t matter whether you are a yogi, martial artist, pregnant woman, or athlete… you can take you life to the next level if you understand the basic elements that shape our existence. This knowledge results in less pain, fewer injuries, accelerated recovery time, and enhanced performance.

When we combine the science of the west with the philosophy of the east we get a complete person…a whole person…. not just a body, not just a mind…but a mind connected to the body through an intricate connection of nerves that are clear of interference.

What is most vital to your health and vitality is an understanding of the shape and orientation of your bones, joints, and muscles, along with the application of a holistic body-mind training program that addresses all aspects of your self.

That is why we offer workshops on yogic postures & anatomy, as well as core rehabilitative exercises, designed to improve flexibility, increase strength, and calm the nerves.

Call us or email us to find out when the next workshop is!!!

NEW PATIENT SPECIAL!!!

To take advantage of the New Patient Special, pick up a copy of Yogi Times or LA Yoga Magazine- Ayurveda & Health and find our advertisement.

Bring in the ad and you'll receive a free exam! This does not include x-rays or an adjustent. Although we do accept Personal Injury, work compernsation, and Medicare case, this offer does not apply.

We look forward to connecting with you!

Ice and heat can help an injury heal. But they must be used correctly and at the right times or they can make an injury worse rather than better. Follow your health care provider’s guidelines for the use of ice and heat as part of your self-care at home.

Ice Pack
Choose a cold pack, bag of ice, or bag of frozen peas. Wrap it in a thin, damp cloth. (Do not place the ice directly on your skin.)

Find a comfortable place to sit or lie down. Place the ice pack over the injured area.

Ice for 15-20 minutes every hour. Do not ice for more than 20 minutes at a time.

Ice Massage
You may need a partner to help you with the massage.

Fill a small paper or dixie cup with water and put it in the freezer. When the water has frozen, peel the top half of the cup back to expose the cone of ice. Or, hold an ice cube in a towel.

Sit or lie in a comfortable position. Gently rub (or have your partner rub)the bare ice over the injured area. Keep the ice moving - don’t hold it still on the skin. Do not rub over bony areas.

Massage for up to 5 minutes.

Wait 45 minutes to 1 hour, then repeat.


HEAT

Heat helps relax muscles and keeps blood circulation moving. But, if used the wrong way, heat can increase pain, swelling, and inflammation. Do not use heat on an injury until your health care provider says it’s OK.

Hot Shower, Hot Tub and/or Bath
A hot shower or soak in a hot tub or bath can provide moist heat for an injury. It also can provide a gentle massage of the injured area. Shower or soak for approximately 5-10 minutes. Do NOT remain in the hot shower or hot tub or bath with an injury for more than 10 minutes!

Heat Pack/Pad
Place the heating pad or hot pack directly over the injured area. Use the heat therapy for 5-10 minutes at a time. Do NOT keep the heating pad or hot pack on the injury for more than 10 minutes!

As a general rule, use ice is you have experienced a new trauma or injury, versus heat!

At this very moment people are lying in bed in agony from disc pain. Is surgery their only option? Can chiropractic help?

WHAT IS THE INTERVERTEBRAL DISC?
The intervertebral discs lie between the spinal bones and act like shock absorbers, preventing the bones from painfully rubbing together. They are made up of a tough fibrous outer ring (annular fibrosis) and a gel-like center (nucleus pulposus). Your 23 spinal discs help give your spine its sideways curves (a curved spine is sixteen times stronger than a straight one) and also join the vertebrae together. Discs contribute to your height - in the morning you are about 1/4" to 1/2" taller than you were the night before because your discs thin a little during the day and expand while you sleep.

DISC PROTRUSION AND PROLAPSE:
Surprisingly, a disc may show signs of wear and tear as early as age 15. As you age, the disc may lose fluid and small cracks (lesions) form in the outer walls. This agin may be accelerated by the vertebral subluxation complex, a spinal distortion chiropractors correct. If the nucleus pulposus begins to push the annular fibrosis out of shape, it’s called herniation. If the herniation causes the disc to bulge a little, it’s called a protrusion. If the disc bulge goes into the spinal cord or puts extreme pressure on the lumbar nerves, it is a disc prolapse. A prolapse may cause such severe pain that sitting, standing, walking, or lifting could be impossible.

Disc degeneration may damage spinal nerves and contribute to conditions in the pelvic area. Among these are endometriosis, infections, (bladder, vaginal, kidney), urinary retention, prostate problems, miscarriage, sterility, sexual impotence, cystitis, menstrual cramps, and constipation. It is not uncommon for an individual who has a chronic back problem to suffer from one or more of the above problems as well.

THE MEDICAL APPROACH:
The medical approach to disc problems is often a combination of painkillers, muscle relaxers, and physical therapy and/or surgery.

Many medical doctors and others find that patients who decide to pursue a non-operative approach towards disc herniation may not need the surgery. Back surgery usually performed by an orthopedic surgeon is at times warranted. We must mention here, however, that cauda equina syndrome, which includes buttock numbness, leg weakness and bladder and bowel dysfunction is considered by many to be the only absolute indication for surgery.

Surgery for people with back pain can be highly effective, however, results can vary widely. This approach is controversial with some individuals claiming that relief following back surgery is often short-lived and that after about six months to a year, many of the spinal problems recur. Although a high number of patients who have had back surgery report no improvement within one year of having surgery, spinal surgeries are increasing much faster than the population. Then again, on the other side of the spectrum are those whose lives are changed for the better, with miniumal residual problems.

THE CHIROPRACTIC RECORD:
A proper alignment between the disc, the vertebrae and other structures in the spine is essential for healthy discs and that is why chiropractic has such an excellent record with disc sufferers, often saving them from the bleak prospect of surgery. Chiropractors have claimed reduction of lumbar disc protrusion as a result of spinal care.

Chiropractic spinal care may help prevent your spine from deterioration and your discs from herniation. Can chiropractic help even if you have already had surgery? YES!! Chiropractors can often help relieve the pain and frustration of failed back surgery and may help prevent future operations. Please, before your spine gets worse, have a chiropractic spinal check up.

Two weeks ago I traveled to our capital, Washington D.C., to attend the Anti-Defamation League’s National Leadership Conference, to do my part to promote peace for Planet Earth.

As I listened to powerful speakers ranging from former General and Secretary of State, Collin Powell, Senator Joe Lieberman, and an explosive Congressman from Florida, Alcee L. Hastings, I became uncomfortably anxious with Earth’s current state of being & the massive amount of work that needs to be done.

Repair for the planet, whether it means bringing about peace in the Middle East, an immediate end to the genocide in Sudan’s Darfur region, or cleaning up our beaches and oceans, is vitally essential.

Concurrently, repair of one’s “self” needs to happen on a daily basis. Being a chiropractor and a practicing yogi, I try to create movement and alignment in all areas of my life to foster a healthy internal environment. Sounds good on paper…right?

So here’s my action plan to help promote peace for your body…..your own planet earth.

Bottom line is, change needs to happen on a cellular level. Therefore, the action plan is centered on providing the essential nutrients required for growth, repair, and transformation.

You can’t go wrong starting out focusing on the food that goes into your body…your personal planet. There’s a great book called, Dr. Mercola’s Total Health Program, that covers all your basic nutritional needs. You can get information about his book by going to the links page on my website and click on Dr. Mercola’s link.

Next, I would focus on moving your body. Movement of the body, especially that of the spine, provides THE most important essential nutrient for brain function. Movement of the spine ignites the cerebellum, which is responsible for COORDINATION of movement, thought, and emotion!

That’s why I get so excited about chiropractic because the latest research shows that the areas in the brain for movement and the areas for thought and emotion are intimately connected. This connection is dependent on movement of the body, and more importantly, the spine. When one doesn’t move, physiological process slow down and the body becomes more susceptible to the effects of gravity, degeneration, and disease. The body becomes weak and the mind dull.

So what I am saying is, “Movement is a huge requirement for global physiology and wellness…so get moving! Do some yoga, run, swim, bicycle!”

So now that you’ve started fueling your cells with healthy ingredients and got them vibrating at an optimal level by moving, controlling the fluctuations of your monkey mind is your next focus.

I like to read positive affirmations. You are what you think. I also enjoy reading spiritual texts to help me live a more moral and peaceful existence. Sitting comfortably while breathing also helps to provide a sense of calm and tranquility. You can read what Yoga master Erich Schiffmann has to say about meditation by going to the links page on my website and click on his website. Then go to Teachings. Then at the top look for Meditation. You can also buy his awesome book Moving into Stillness… one of the best yoga books out there!

Repairing yourself has huge implications for the health of mankind and the planet. Dr. Koch says, “Only when the collective consciousness shifts can we expect a healthy population.” It has to happen one body/mind/spine at a time for the next revolution to take place. Spread the word! It will be good you,your friends, and the planet!

Chiropractically yours,

Dr. Jeremy Brook

We believe that art can be an integral part of the process of relieving stress and transforming your life. The physical element of our center focuses on your body's conditioning, but your mind needs stimulation to maintain a healthy mental outlook.

With that in mind, The Life Center Chiropractic is excited to begin displaying art from local artists.

If you are an artist wishing to exhibit your work, please drop us an email!

Since we live in a free society, I want to take a minute to remind you that ONLY you are responsible for your health. Tonight while watching Lou Dobbs on CNN, I was blown away by the subject matter. One of the topics focused on the corrupt partnership between the FDA (the Food and Drug Administration) and the pharmaceutical companies.

In a nutshell, the people on FDA panels who decide what drugs will be approved for sale, actually have positions in the pharmaceutical companies that manufacture the drugs that are up for review!

So for example, a recent independent study showed that a Cox-2 inhibitor drug, called Vioxx, doubled heart attack and stroke risk when taken for at least 18 months. Merck & Co., the pharmaceutical giant and maker of Vioxx, immediately pulled Vioxx from the market.
But last week, Merck & Co. Inc. made a surprise announcement that it would consider selling Vioxx again if a FDA panel decided the cardiovascular risks were similar to those of related prescription pain relievers. However, the people on this FDA panel actually work for Merck! Guess who’s back in the game! Vioxx!

Naturally most people take the word of the FDA to be true. I am suggesting you become radical when it comes to your health. The main agency that approves today’s drugs doesn’t have our best interest in mind. It is all about profits!

The United States of America should be the healthiest country on the planet with all our riches. Although we are the most technologically and pharmaceutically advanced country in the galaxy, we are ranked the 17th healthiest country in the world.

Drugs aren’t the answer. The answer lies inside you. It begins with your life force! Health begins with honoring and cultivating the circulation of your life force. You’re only as strong as the energy that courses through!

Chiropractic opens the channel. Then you need to move with intelligence and awareness to make sure the energy get deposited in the right place and in the right amount! Try yoga! Or tai chi! Or chi gong! Or aikdo! Just get the force circulating.

Let’s start the wellness revolution on the inside, get strong and take the power back!

Chiropractically yours,

Dr. Jeremy Brook

As many of you may know, I have been blessed with the opportunity to be an apprentice to Ashtanga Master, Chuck Miller. As his apprentice I have assumed the role as an “environmentalist,” making sure that flow is maintained in the asana room.

My biggest excitement lies in being able to have the permission to walk around the room and observe the intensity and integrity of the yogis’ practice.

For those that don’t know about Mysore Ashtanga yoga, Ashtanga yoga is a sequential, scientific form of yoga known as vinyasa, and is self-led. That’s right…no teacher. You control your cadence.

Vinyasa correlates breath with motion. Specific inhales or exhales fluidly link the entering into and exiting out of an asana or posture. The style of breathing known as ujjayi, steadies the mind and creates internal heat to release toxins and give the body more pliability.

Natural alignment and strength are natural byproducts. However, it all sounds great on paper….now the practioner has to turn that philosophy of fluid breath and movement into practice.

I jokingly coined the term, “Russian vinyasa yoga” (no offense to any Russian yogis) for those rushing their yoga practice. In asana practice, there exists a tendency for one to overextend and over exert. A certain amount of restraint is necessary to ensure that the yogi does not injure themselves….on purpose.

Vinyasa also means to move step by step. The concept of each movement and breath as part of whole dynamic process is symbolic to how we lead our daily lives.

Some times we all need to check in and make sure we’re not moving at 186,000 miles per second (the speed of light). In Los Angeles it is very easy to be like a rhinoceros in a rose garden. It may be healthier to be like the bee smelling the roses.

So just a suggestion… slow down. You may actually become conscious of some of your unconscious behaviors and patterns that are causing you to become subluxated in the first place.

By living a conscious life we are able to move healthier in our bodies, think more clearly, and connect to our innate intelligence.

So get adjusted to clear your channel…. Move your body skillfully to make sure your container is strong….Breathe consciously so the energy circulates… and make sure the food and thoughts entering the body are pure!

Chiropractically yours,
Dr. Jeremy Brook

The World Chiropractic Alliance (WCA) is recommending that people of all ages add chiropractic to their strategy for warding off and fighting the flu and its effects this season.

Spinal adjustments can have a positive effect on immune function, the WCA asserts, citing a growing number of researchers who are exploring the common denominators in disease processes, and the role of the nervous, immune, and hormonal systems in development of immune related illnesses.

Chiropractic corrects spinal abnormalities called vertebral subluxations that result in interference of the nervous system by placing pressure on nerves. Since the nervous system controls all functions of the body ?? including the immune system ?? chiropractic care can have a positive effect on immune function, WCA officials note.

"Contemporary research is beginning to shed light on the neurobiological mechanisms which may explain the outstanding clinical results chiropractors have experienced when managing patients with viral and infectious diseases," stated Dr. Christopher Kent, WCA Vice President.

Dr. Kent explained: "A comprehensive review of the research literature reveals the current understanding that the brain and immune system are the two major adaptive systems in the body. During an immune response, the brain and the immune system 'talk to each other' and this process is essential for maintaining homeostasis or balance in the body."

Since its inception, chiropractic has asserted that viruses and microbes don't threaten us all equally and that a healthy immune system easily repels most invaders. The immune system protects us from the flu, as well as any other infectious disease, and strives to get us well again when we do fall ill. Our immune system, like every other system in the body, is coordinated and controlled by the nervous system.

Chiropractors are also aware of the importance of positive health life style practices (rest, drinking ample quantities of water, diet, exercise, proper food choices, use of high potency multivitamins and minerals, and stress reduction approaches) that can also positively influence the nervous system and immune response. According to a large study of the chiropractic profession recently conducted by the Institute for Social Research, Ohio Northern University (McDonald et al., 2003), chiropractors also customarily advise their patients as to the benefits of these other modalities in optimizing overall body function.

Chiropractors helping patients battle the flu is not a new occurrence either. During the 1917?18 influenza epidemic, which brought death and fear to many Americans, it has been estimated that 20 million people died throughout the world, including about 500,000 Americans. It was chiropractic's success in caring for flu victims that led to the profession's licensure in many states.

Researchers reported that in Davenport, Iowa, out of the 93,590 patients treated by medical doctors, there were 6,116 deaths ?? a loss of one patient out of every 15. Chiropractors at the Palmer School of Chiropractic adjusted 1,635 cases, with only one death. Outside Davenport, chiropractors in Iowa cared for 4,735 cases with only six deaths ?? one out of 866. During the same epidemic, in Oklahoma, out of 3,490 flu patients under chiropractic care, there were only seven deaths. Furthermore, chiropractors were called in 233 cases given up as lost after medical treatment, and reportedly saved all but 25. In another report covering 4,193 cases by 213 chiropractors 4,104 showed complete recovery.

"These results are not so surprising given what we now know about the interaction between the nervous system and the immune system" stated Dr. Matthew McCoy, WCA Board member and Editor of the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research. "Through research we know that chiropractic has beneficial effects on immunoglobulins, B?lymphocytes (white blood cells), pulmonary function and other immune system processes."

One such study, conducted by Patricia Brennan Ph.D and her team, found that when a chiropractic "manipulation" was applied to the middle back, the response of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (white blood cells) taken from blood collected 15 minutes after the manipulation was significantly higher than blood collected 15 minutes before and 30 and 45 minutes after the chiropractic procedure. This research demonstrated an "enhanced respiratory burst" following the chiropractic adjustment. This "burst" is needed for our immune cells to destroy invading viruses and bacteria.

Another small study of HIV positive patients was conducted to study the effects of specific chiropractic adjustments to correct vertebral subluxations in the upper neck on the immune systems of HIV positive individuals. Over the six?month period of the study, the group that did not receive chiropractic care experienced a 7.96% decrease in CD4 cell counts, while the adjusted group experienced a 48% increase in CD4 cell counts over the same period.

A large retrospective study conducted by Dr. Robert Blanks and colleagues studied 2,818 individuals undergoing chiropractic care. These individuals reported an average overall improvement, ranging from 7?28%, in a battery of physical symptoms including stiffness/lack of flexibility in the spine, physical pain, fatigue, incidence of colds and flu, headaches, menstrual discomfort, gastrointestinal disorders, allergies, dizziness and falls (Blanks et al., 1997, Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research).

More importantly, the incidence of colds and flu was reduced by an average of 15% in this large population who were undergoing regular chiropractic care.

According to Dr. Terry Rondberg, president of the World Chiropractic Alliance, "While we would love to say we (chiropractors) figured this out, the truth is we didn't. We simply take advantage of it to help our patients."

He added that, "In many ways this is old news since the relationship between the nervous system and the immune system was reported by the New York Times in 1993. According to that article 'Scientists have found the first evidence of an anatomical connection between the nervous system and the immune system. Nerve cell endings in the skin and white blood cells of the immune system are in intimate contact, and chemicals secreted by the nerves can shut down immune system cells nearby.' Our health care system needs to catch up with the research."

"I would recommend to any person concerned about the upcoming flu season to add chiropractic to their list of things to do to remove interference to their nervous system, enhance their immune function and give their body every extra bit of security it needs" stated Dr. Rondberg.

The World Chiropractic Alliance (WCA), an international organization representing doctors of chiropractic. WCA promotes the traditional, drug?free and non?invasive form of chiropractic as a means of correcting vertebral subluxations that cause nerve interference. The WCA is a NGO (Non?Governmental Organization) associated with the United Nations Department of Public Information.

For more information visit the World Chiropractic Alliance's website at http://www.worldchiropracticalliance.org.

Historical- The first crude Chiropractic adjustment of a vertebra was given in September, 1895 by Dr. D. D. Palmer. Neither the art, nor the science was formed at this time. Its growth remained practically dormant until 1903,at which time his son, B. J. Palmer, D.C., Ph. C. had developed it into a well defined non-therapeutical philosophy, science and art that has no resemblance whatever to any therapeutical method. Health (equality) is restored by completing the mental and physical circuit; restoring the currents of cycles of mental impulses acting through the material agency; to replace the full quota of positive with an equivalent negative; permitting the reconveyance of the intelligent immaterial into the mechanical corporeal; to reconstruct normal psycho-physical unit; to make as one the triunity of creation, transmission and expression; to re-establish equilibrium between the abstract and concrete, all of which is induced by replacing specific disordered concrete mechanical anatomy which permits adjustment between that one law of two principles- cause and effect-the rules and manner of declaration of which are unique and unlike any theories of stimulative or inhibitive movement or applications used by any other school.

Defined- Chiropractic is a name given to the study and application of a universal philosophy of biology, theology, theosophy, health , disease, death, the science of the cause of disease and art of permitting the restoration of the triune relationships between all attributes necessary to normal composite forms, to harmonious quantities and qualities by placing in juxtaposition and abnormal concrete positions of definite mechanical portions with each hand, by hand, thus correcting all subluxations of the three hundred articulations of the human skeletal frame, more especially those of the spinal column, for the purpose of permitting the re-creation of all normal cyclic currents, through nerves that were formerly not permitted to be transmitted, through impingement, but have now assumed their normal size and capacity for conduction as they emanate through intervertebral foramina- the expressions of which were formerly excessive or partially lacking- named disease

As a modern Chiropractic office, we are committed to using the highest quality research and clinical grade chiropractic instrumentation available for the purpose of detecting the presence of Vertebral Subluxation.

Computerized Surface Electromyography (sEMG) is used to evaluate the relative levels of electrical activity associated with Vertebral Subluxation. Interfering with the communication over the nerve system between the brain and the rest of the body, a Vertebral Subluxation produces improper electrical impulses, which can lead to a lower health potential. This altered or abnormal state can be detected by measuring the muscle activity on either side of the spine utilizing sEMG technology. These measurements are recorded and displayed on computer screen. SEMG provides qualitative and quantitative data to assist us in determining which areas/levels of the nerve system are being adversely affected by Vertebral Subluxations. More importantly, this objective test can be utilized to monitor the balancing of your nerve system during the course of your care at WWC.

This test is painless and takes less than 5 minutes to perform, yielding an abundance of information.

The purpose of the first visit is to gather information about your past and current health status. After a brief tour of our office, you will sit with Dr. Jeremy Brook in consultation, to determine how we can best assist you.

Should chiropractic care be an option for you, you can choose to have a comprehensive chiropractic evaluation performed. This will include a computerized sEMG examination. This is the latest in chiropractic technology and yields an abundance of information. Assessment of your spine follows to reveal exactly how your body’s performance is being compromised by vertebral subluxation- a misaligned spinal bone that interferes with the transmission of vital nerve signals.

That afternoon or evening, Dr. Brook will review your findings, then analyze them in detail to determine two things: 1) any unusual findings, which when present, may alter our Recommended Program of Care or facilitate possible follow up by another health care professional and 2) highlight any precautions necessary for you to receive chiropractic care. Once we have done so, we will integrate these findings with the results of your chiropractic evaluation and design a personalized game plan.

This visit has two primary purposes: 1. Discuss the findings of your chiropractic evaluation and once fully understood 2. Discuss your Program of Care and associated financial responsibilities.

It is recommended you bring any family members, significant others and friends that are involved in your life and your decisions. There is no charge for this follow-up consultation. Plan on spending 30 minutes at our office.

Should chiropractic care be appropriate for you, you can choose to begin care on this visit. You will be taken to our comfortable adjusting suite where you will receive your first chiropractic adjustment; the first step towards regaining and maintaining your health.

Unless a child has an obvious problem, it can be difficult for parents to recognize when a child has vertebral subluxations. It is not always easy for someone other than a chiropractor, highly trained in the art of analyzing the spine, to determine if the child has a problem, just as it is difficult for someone other than a dentist to determine if a child has any cavities. Both cases take the skill of a trained specialist to perform a thorough evaluation.

There are some signs however which parents look for, which can be an indicator of a child with a challenge in their spine. Common indicators of vertebral subluxation may include the child’s head consistently being tilted to one side, restricted head or neck motion to one side, disturbed sleeping patterns where the child sleeps for only an hour or two at a time, and feeding difficulties where the infant may have difficulty nursing at the breast on one particular side.

Common childhood disorders can also sometimes indicate a spinal problem. Persistent earaches, sore throats, colic, headaches, bed wetting, and growing pains are but some of the more common problems for which parents bring their children to the chiropractor.

In order to customize the right techinique for each person I studied with several chiropractic masters. The list below is a brief explanation of the techniques I will use to adjust and correct one's subluxations.

If you have any questions about any of the techniques I use, feel free to contact me any time.

PALMER METHOD
This will involve any of a number of specific adjusting techniques, such as full spine, gonstead, & HIO, with the addition of a philosophy which emphasizes the role of the Innate Intelligence of the body in the healing process. It will not utilize any therapy other than hand adjustment.

THOMPSON
A specific technique for adjustment of the full spine on a special table which has a slight drop in the cushions to improve the effectiveness of the adjustment without as much force into the patient.

GONSTEAD
A specific method for full spine adjusting utilizing the use of full spine x-rays to locate spinal mis-alignments.

HIO -- hole in one AKA Toggle Recoil
A specific adjustment of the upper cervical spine... the upper part of the neck, closest to the brain.This technique utilizes a side posture table with a cervical head piece which makes a slight drop when the adjustment is given.

MLTTS
Developed by my mentor Dr. Arno Burnier. It is an advanced technique that involves visulization, motion palpation, and advanced delicate adjusting.

MOTION ANALYSIS (PALPATION)
An examination procedure used to test the mobility of spinal joints by feeling for movement between the vertebra.

ACTIVATOR
It is a small had held impact tool in which a quick impulse is applied to correct a vertebral mis-alignment according to a set pattern.

CHIROPRACTIC BIOPHYSICS a.k.a. Clinical Biomechanics of Posture (C.B.P.)
A highly specific method of x-ray analyses and full spine postural based system which utilizes "mirror image" instrument adjusting, drop table adjusting, and manual adjusting along with very specific postural based exercise and traction in order to restore the spinal column and posture back towards normal.

LOGAN
A non-force technique taught by Logan Chiropractic College, which utilizes a soft steady pressure on ligaments around the tail bone for release of tension and vertebral mis-alignments in the lower back.

NIMMO
A technique used to cause relaxation of the muscles by applying deep pressure into certain joints and muscles along the spine and into the musculo skeletal system.

So......why do chiropractors focus on the spine, and what does the spine have to do with innate intelligence and fulfilling your potential in life? Well, as it turns out, a lot. The spine is made up of 24 bones which cover and protect your 'communication superhighway' - the spinal cord. It is via this neural network that your innate intelligence informs and coordinates the delicate dance which we call life.

Your chiropractor strives to optimize your spinal and nervous system function so that you can accurately interpret, and then appropriately respond to your life's calling. In pursuing this purpose your chiropractor uses natural, safe, and carefully administered techniques structured and individualized to your personal physiology.

If you are already health conscious you will be aware of the important role of many aspects of the chiropractic lifestyle. You will likely know that regular exercise, a good diet, minimizing stress and maintaining a balanced mental attitude are all important for achieving and sustaining your best. You should also know about that important part of the equation upon which all others depend.......the nervous system.

The nervous system is the master control system to all cells, tissues and organs in the body. The health and proper function of your spine is essential to this system. The other components of the chiropractic lifestyle are obviously best pursued when spinal and nervous system function are at their best.

We spend more on health care than any other nation, yet Americans endure some of the poorest health of any developed nation. This is because we don’t have a health care system, we have a disease care system.

Scientists estimate over 70% of disease is preventable, yet the emphasis on prevention and wellness is minimal.

However there has been a shift in consciousness in which people are beginning to nurture their bodies with love, respect, and restraint.

Maintenance, prevention, and wellness care have become common household terms. And now Los Angeles has a new home where people can strengthen their outer structure that protects their inner works.

It is called The Life Center and it is just that. It is a center that is life oriented with an emphasis on human performance, healing, and vitality and enables one to achieve optimal health through a path...Pure traditional Chiropractic.

So you have a choice, because life is about making choices. You have a choice to be healthy or unhealthy. To act or react. To move or stand still. To listen or ignore. To feel more or not feel at all. To regenerate or degenerate. To be conscious or unconscious. To live with ease or dis-ease. You have a choice to stand straight, take in a breath, and be alive. You have a choice to connect or reconnect or be disconnected.

But the choice can only come from one place...the inside. And can express itself on the outside. Because that is how we heal… from the inside out.

Your understanding of a Vertebral Subluxation is crucial to your healing process. This essay is designed to provide you with several models and definitions of a serious obstacle to your health… Vertebral Subluxations.

According to R.S. Stephenson’s 1927 text, Chiropractic Textbook, a Vertebral Subluxation occurs when a vertebra loses its juxtaposition with the vertebral above or below, or both, and occludes an opening, resulting in nerve impingement and interference with transmission of mental impulses.

LANTZ MODEL OF SUBLUXATION
Nine Components:
1. Kinesiological
2. Neurological
3. Myology
4. Connective tissue physiology
5. Angiology
6. Inflammatory response
7. Anatomy
8. Physiology
9. Biochemistry

SUBLUXATION DEGENERATION MODEL
Subluxation degeneration has been described as a progressive process associated with abnormal spinal mechanics. The degenerative changes are associated with various mechanisms of neurological dysfunction.

DYSAFFERENTATION MODEL
Biomechanical dysfunction may result in altered input into the CNS (Central Nervous System). To use the contemporary jargon of the computer industry, “garbage in-garbage out.”
Correcting the specific Vertebral Subluxation cause is paramount to restoring normal input into the CNS, and allowing the body to correctly perceive itself and its environment.

NEURODYSTROPHIC MODEL
This model suggests that nerve dysfunction is stressful to body tissues and that lowered tissue resistance may be the common denominator in disease processes.

NEUROBIOLOGICAL MODELS
1. SEGMENTAL MODEL: Subluxation is described in terms of alterations in specific intervertebral motion segments.
2. POSTURAL APPROACHES: In postural approaches, subluxation is seen as a postural distortion. Chiropractors of postural approaches assess “global” subluxations using postural analysis, which evaluates spinal curves and their relationship to the spine as a whole.
3. TONAL APPROACHES: In 1910, D.D. Palmer wrote, “Life is an expression of tone.” Tone is the normal degree of muscle tension. Tone is expressed in function by normal elasticity, strength, and excitability. . . the cause of dis-ease is any variation in tone.” Tonal approaches tend to view the spine and nervous system as a functional unit.

It may be seen that there exists a wide range of techniques in Chiropractic, but they all share the common objective of correcting nerve interference caused by vertebral subluxation.

The Philosophy of Chiropractic is founded upon the knowledge of the manner in which vital functions are performed by Innate in health and disease. When this controlling intelligence is able to transmit mental impulses to all parts of the body, free and unobstructed, we have normal action which is health.

Innate directs its vital energy thru the nervous system to specialize the co-ordination of sensation and volition through the cumulative and vegetative functions.

Displacement of any part of the skeletal frame may press against nerves, which are the channels of communication, intensifying or decreasing their carrying capacity, creating either too much or not enough function, an aberration known as disease. The nature of the affection depends upon the shape of the bone, the amount of pressure, age of the patient, character of nerves impinged upon and the individual make-up.

Learn how to go from being tired and in pain to feeling strong and energetic.
1. Increase your energy through the implementation of action steps.
2. Reduce your stress level using time-tested techniques.
3. Motivate yourself through the creation of simple habits.
4. Tone the body and strengthen the mind in small amounts of time.
5. Realize the causes behind your unnecessary headaches, pain, and other symptoms.
6. Cultivate the greatest skill and attribute for having maximum energy: flexibility.
Why would I want to have a doctor of chiropractic for my company?
Study after study is showing the benefits of chiropractic care on all levels of one’s life. If your employees’ bodies are strong and healthy then their mind will follow by being sharp and alert. The result… a productive and positive team member

Research proves that people using chiropractic care are happier, healthier and more productive.

Study after study consistently shows that people who utilize chiropractic care either exclusively or in conjunction with medical care do not get sick and injured as often, return to work faster, take less dangerous medications and costs for care are less than traditional medical care alone. This translates into more productive employees, less sick days and as your health insurance claims decrease because your employees are healthier your company's rates decrease because of decreased utilization.


Book Dr. Jeremy Brook to give a workshop at your yoga studio!

Book Dr. Jeremy Brook to provide chiropractic at your yoga retreat!

We look forward to connecting with you!

The correction of a vertebral subluxation is the primary goal of a principled chiropractor. But many of us haven’t even heard of the term vertebral subluxation, despite the fact that is a serious obstacle in our expression of health, healing, wellness, and vitality. So what exactly is a vertebral subluxation?

Let us begin with some basic anatomy, physiology, and embryology. When you were conceived you were given a brain and a spinal cord first. So vital and basic the wisdom of your body encased it in an armor of bone. The bony armor of the human nerve system includes the cranium, 24 spinal bones, the sacrum, coccyx, and 134 articulations, and provides protection and flexibility of the brain and the most vital nerve channel known to mankind, the spinal cord. These two opposing functions make the spine and cranium an architectural and engineering masterpiece!

The nerve system, comprised of the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and a dazzling array of neurotransmitters or chemicals controls, integrates, and harmonizes all the other systems. It gathers our sense impressions, coordinates all actions and movements, and is the instrument used in the evolution of one’s consciousness. It is the most amazing communication system known to mankind. It is our “Inner- Net” and our link to the inner and outer world. It connects us to life.

Now out from the spinal cord, through holes or channels between the jointed vertebrae, run nerves that carry human electricity, innate force, life force, light, prana, or chi to every muscle, organ, gland, blood vessel, and cell in the body. Embryology tells us that these nerves are so vital that they must precede the formation of any body part.
Chiropractors are concerned with the relationship between the structure and expression of the human being, specifically the spine and nerve system, and how that relationship may affect one’s level of health, creativity, and performance.

There are times in our lives when one or more spinal bones, or vertebrae, lose their normal alignment or motion and cause interference to the spinal cord which it was designed to protect. The effect is interference and abnormal communication between the brain and body resulting in an altered state of function. This is called a vertebral subluxation.

The vertebral subluxation can arise on several levels, due to physical, chemical, emotional, or spiritual stress. These stresses create tension within the nerve system and interfere with the normal flow of human electricity throughout the body.

The vertebral subluxation robs the body of focus to think, metabolize, and power to heal. Any interference with the normal action of nerves in carrying human electricity or life force deranges their functions, and thereby deranges the function of the muscles, organs, or glands to which they go to. The result, an unbalanced body.

This deranged function can only be made normal by having the displacements (subluxations) adjusted resulting in a free flow of healing energy throughout the body. This is accomplished through the chiropractic adjustment.

This free flow of healing energy is felt in every fiber of your being and allows for a most exquisite human experience.

Chiropractic is a mind body discipline. The mind and body and linked together by the nervous system. The nervous system is protected by the spinal bones. And chiropractors are intimately involved with the relationship between the structure and alignment of the bony armor and the function of the nervous system.
Chiropractic aims at the balance, adaptation, and harmonization of all the essential human elements, the mind, the body, and the spirit. This is accomplished by clearing the nerve system, or inner-net, of interference.

Since the inner-net is the integrating master of all the systems in the body and is the ultimate anatomical vehicle for elevating and transforming consciousness, it is essential that it be maintained on a regular basis.

Chiropractic recognizes an intelligent life force that animates all living things. This intelligence uses our nerve system as the medium to transmit life, light, chi, or prana throughout the body. When this life force flows freely from the brain down the cord out the nerves to the tissue cells one is able to fully express their genetic potential.

When this flow of intelligence is obstructed due to a misaligned spinal bone, the whole human ecology is greatly affected and distorted. Our hormonal balance, our perceptions, our strength and coordination, our ability to handle stress and recover, our ability to grow, and our inner foundation are all compromised. This obstruction to our nerve system is called a vertebral subluxation. Vertebral, specifying a vertebrae or one of the 24 spinal bones, and sub-lux-ation, specifying, less light in expression.

Chiropractic optimizes human performance and productivity by detecting and correcting subluxations through the chiropractic adjustment.

People chose to enter chiropractic on many different levels: To relieve stress from their high paced lives, as a holistic component for strengthening and invigorating the body, as a healing art for physical challenges, or as a path to experience higher levels of consciousness.

Whatever your motivation, chiropractic offers profound benefits that will affect all areas of your life: improve posture, ed inner awareness, enhanced human performance and creativity, and optimal neurological expression.

By making the body and mind stronger chiropractic allows you to be flexible and dynamic with every new moment.

Just as ecology teaches us to live in harmony with the other beings on planet Earth, chiropractic teaches us to live in harmony with all the integral parts of ourselves. As we achieve balance on the inside we come to recognize balance on the outside.

Dr. Jeremy Brook is a chiropractor and teacher of life, health, healing, and wholeness whose passion for spreading the philosophy, science, and art of chiropractic is unmatched. His message is one that allows an individual to connect with their inborn intelligence thereby optimizing their healing potential and creative talents.

Dr. Brook understands the necessary components required in achieving optimal health. His perspective stems from a background involving sports, music, yoga, and biology. This perspective allows him to truly offer people a way to find balance within themselves while creating a body that is strong and flexible and exploding with “motion for life”.

After graduating from the University of California at Irvine in 1996 with a degree in biology, Dr. Brook entered Palmer College of Chiropractic- West, one of the world’s most prestigious chiropractic schools. It was there he received the Virgil Strange Award for the student with visionary ideas and excellence in chiropractic. In 2001, Dr. Brook returned to Los Angeles to open The Life Center~ Chiropractic, a unique studio that incorporates the latest in computer technology with the most advanced chiropractic technique in the profession. It is no surprise that Olympic athletes, pregnant women, artists, students, and yoga masters get their nervous systems “turned on” with Dr. Brook.

This center was created with the sole purpose and intention of providing a home for those who chose to master the art of self-healing and exploration. Dr. Brook would love to show you how it works. So enter The Life Center where you can discover how much better you can express yourself. Because its not about your back…. its about your life!

It is not often that one finds Bruce Lee and chiropractic in the same sentence, but after reading an essay from Bruce’s classic The Tao of Jeet Kune Do, titled “The Importance of Coordination” the connection between the two was crystal clear.
In his essay Bruce dives into the different components essential for pure coordination as well as the importance of refining the nervous system. A master in the martial arts, Bruce was highly qualified to write on this topic. In fact he sounded as if he were a doctor of chiropractic stressing the importance of owning a nervous system clear of interference.
Bruce states, “Muscles have no power to guide themselves, but the manner in which they act and consequently, the effectiveness of their performances, depend absolutely how the nervous system guides them.” Being that we live in a culture that gives more importance to how our outsides look rather than how the insides work, one could gain new insight into the inner workings of our body from this statement. Simply put, the nerves deliver a message from the brain down the cord out the nerves to the muscles and give it the power to move. Without proper nerve supply the muscles are useless. They are in fact flesh and meat that becomes animated when activated by our “inner net” or nervous system. Bruce was a master of his art who knew how to train his nervous system and harness its power to achieve physical mastery.
In order for one to achieve optimum command of their physical body, it is essential that one understand how their inner wiring is laid out. For it is the inner wiring that is responsible for the transmission of human electricity to every muscle, organ, gland, blood vessel, and cell in the body. Without healthy wiring, or nerves, the body becomes weak and lifeless. Thus one’s coordination is affected resulting in inappropriate reflexes, diminished timing or speed, and imprecise accuracy. That’s where chiropractic fits in. Chiropractic is a discipline that concerns itself with the clearing and refinement of the nerve system and the spinal bones that protect it.
With a clear nerve system one is able to enjoy a body that is communicating properly with itself. From the brain, the seed and source of the nerve system, down the spinal cord, the most important information superhighway known to mankind, out through the nerves, and to the muscle, flows healing energy, prana, chi, or innate force. The connection should be a clear one. A clean one without interference.
Bruce says, “… learning coordination is a matter of training the nervous system and not a question of training muscles. The transition from totally uncoordinated muscular effort to skill is the highest perfection is a process of developing the connections in the nerve system.” If one desires peak physical performance then a sound nerve system is the foundation. The result… a fresh body capable of executing pure power and razor sharp coordination. So clear your system!

AVOID SLEEPING ON YOUR STOMACH
It twists your neck and puts stress on your brain stem (Houston Control).

STRETCH EVERY MORNING AFTER GETTING OUT OF BED
It gives your spine strength and flexibility. Try Sun Salutations to begin your day.

LEARN AND PRACTICE A BREATHING TECHNIQUE
A simple but powerful example: in a comfortable seated position, breathe in through your nose and breathe out through your mouth. Count 30 full breaths with attention on the space between the inhalation and exhalation.

KEEP YOU WALLET OUT OF YOUR BACK POCKET
Especially when sitting or driving. It torques the foundation of your spine.

DRINK AT LEAST 1O GLASSES OF SPRING WATER EVERYDAY
Hydrate every cell in your body. I love TRINITRY water!

AVOID DRUGS
Including alcohol, sugar, cigarettes, and sugar.

TAKE A WALK AFTER DINNER
It aids digestion.

BEGIN A EXERCISE ROUTINE
Invigorate your body physically. Motion is life. Your body was created for movement.

CULTIVATE A MEDIATION PRACTIVE
Hundreds of scientific studies show that the effects of meditation can be profound.

GET ADJUSTED BY YOUR FAVORITE CHIROPRACTOR
Specific adjustments to your spine and nervous system enables you to have a free flow of communication between your brain and body. The net result is optimal health.

In 1980, Roger Sperry, Ph.D. was given the Nobel Prize for brain research. One of his comments was “Better than 90% of the energy output of the brain is used in relating the physical body in its gravitational field. The more mechanically distorted a person is, the less energy for thinking, metabolism, and healing.”

What a powerful bit if information! Think about the ramifications of walking around with vertebral subluxations! Remember, a vertebral subluxation is a spinal bone out of alignment with the bone above and below, creating interference to the nervous system. In essence it is a mechanical distortion with neurological implications. Thus, if one is walking around with vertebral subluxations, he or she is going to have less energy for thinking, metabolism, and healing!

How many people do you know that are not under regular chiropractic care and are constantly sick, tired, irritable, etc.? Is it possible that if they were to clear up their mechanical distortion and free up the master control system, it would give their body the chance to heal and function up to par? I think so!

When you get done reading this, take a moment to think about the people in your life that are not under regular chiropractic care. Then, give them a call and share this simple bit of information with them. It will make a big difference in their life.

Our body and behavior have built in mechanisms or tendencies to stay the same within a narrow limit. And when changed it will snap back immediately to its old alignment or pattern. Just think about it, when we are cold the body causes us shiver to generate more heat. This brings our core temperature back to a more comfortable limit. If the body didn’t make us shiver then we would succumb to the cold and risk injury or even freeze to death. The same thing applies to blood sugar, sodium, & thyroid hormone among others. How about dieting? For those who have started a diet, they know the process of making changes in their diet requires new choices in types of food, as well as the proportions. If followed carefully the most obvious change is in their weight and energy levels. They become a new person. When they fall off track they notice they are in the same place as where started. Those who remained committed to the process noticed that it eventually became second nature and they did not revert back to their old eating habits.

This condition of equilibrium, this resistance to change, is called homeostasis. Homeostasis is an innate mechanism within the body that regulates all the systems in the body. When there is change in the body, your innate intelligence or inborn wisdom keeps you at a set limit. The problem is that sometimes the level or set limit you are currently at is not a positive one. Homeostasis works to keep things as they are, even if they aren’t very good. Being that our patterns and behaviors are hard to change, we become stuck at a certain level. Sometimes it’s beneficial, and sometimes it’s not. So it is essential to understand this innate mechanism in order to achieve optimal health and start being well.

Remember, homeostasis doesn’t distinguish between what you would call change for the better and change for the worse. It resists ALL change. So how do we tap in and reset our set limit? The way we do it in Chiropractic is start with the foundation. We start with the nervous system. According to Gray’s Anatomy,” The nervous system controls and coordinates all organs and structures of the body. Misalignments of spinal vertebrae and discs may cause irritation to the nervous system which could affect the structures, organs, and functions of the body.” So the central concept of chiropractic is to remove interference from the master system through specific adjustments to the spine, so the vital nerve energy can flow freely from the brain down the cord and out to every cell in the body. With a clear connection the body can function as it was designed to without distortion. We then build from there.

Chiropractic care begins with creating more motion in the body. Since motion is life and life is motion we must build or rebuild a body that is flexible and capable of handling the rigors and demands from life. When we open up, the body shifts in that direction. Innately the body wants more motion. Chiropractic adjustments to the spine allow for a greater degree of motion. But in order to prevent the body from reverting back to its old posture and patterns it needs reinforcement and correction. We do that with a series of adjustment to retrain and rebuild the alignment. With time the body will recognize that alignment and consider it to be its new set point. Then the body will seek to maintain homeostasis by keeping you at that limit.

Once motion and a correct alignment are attained an individual is able to have a better connection within. Through a new awareness of their spine… their backbone…their foundation… their connection to life… they are able to consciously see their old unconscious patterns, whether they are unbeneficial emotions or postural distortions.

No one said it’s easy to create change. It requires three components. Time. Repetition. Energy. It takes time to make change. It requires repetition to reprogram the old. It requires energy to be committed to the process. And then sit back and watch the organic process in action. Others surely will.

The Sloan-Kettering Institute for cancer research, recently did a study that revealed that people under chiropractic care had immune systems that were 200-400% stronger than those who were not under chiropractic care.

Dr. Ralph Denagy, a research scientist at the Rockefeller Institute who has been a member of 5 Nobel Prize winning teams determined that interference to the nerve system results in permanent damage within a short period of time. Therefore chiropractic care should begin at birth on a preventative basis.

Dr. Zeanith H. Stamets, a medical doctor in his book called, Cancer Research and Treatment and Allied Diseases, stated that along with some other treatments, readjustment of the spine is believed to be required to restore normal functions which are lost in cancer cases.

Dr. William Donald Kelley, an orthodontist who successfully treated his own pancreatic cancer, now uses his nutritionally based therapy to help others overcome cancer and other supposedly “incurable diseases.” Dr. Kelley recommends that his patients receive regular Atlas Orthogonal Chiropractic care the entire time that they’re following his program and then afterwards for maintenance.

Dr. Gutterman, a German medical doctor found that blocked nerve impulses at the atlas, the top bone in the neck, cause many clinical features from central motor impairment, to lower resistance, to infections- especially ear, nose, and throat infections. He found that chiropractic can often bring about amazingly successful results, because the therapy is a casual one. He concludes that approximately 80% of all children are not in autonomic (nerve) balance and that many have atlas blockage or subluxation.

Dr. Leon Chaitow, an osteopath and naturopathic doctor in his book, A World Without AIDS recommends that immediately upon receiving a diagnosis with AIDS, a person should begin regular chiropractic care along with other natural methods of strengthening the body’s immune system.

These respected doctors and researchers recognize that chiropractic care has a very positive effect on our body’s immune system, which is the system that fights off infections of all sorts, cancer, and many other diseases. Once you understand this, it becomes obvious that chiropractic is not just for bad necks and backs as many people think. Chiropractic restores normal nerve function so that the “power that made the body, heals the body.”

Sources can be found by doing an author search on the Internet.

A recent retrospective study of 2,818 patients in the USA and worldwide demonstrates that Chiropractic is associated with statistically significant, profound, and consistent improvement in self reported health and wellness issues (provided below). A demographic analysis of the retrospective study (conducted between November, 1994 and April, 1995) demonstrates that Chiropractic targets highly motivated individuals interested in alternative and complimentary care, and vitalistic or holistic care.

Less Stress relative to
emotional well being, health, general well being, coping with daily problems, family, significant relationships, work

More Life Enjoyment
openness to guidance by inner feelings, experience of relaxation, well being,  positive feelings about self, interest in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, feeling open when relating to others, confidence in dealing with adversity, compassion for others

Improved Physical Well Being
Improved flexibility of the spine, more energy, less fatigue, fewer colds and flu, fewer headaches, and reduced pain

Greater Emotional and Psychological Well Being
positive feelings about self, decreased moodiness, temper, angry outbursts, less depression, more interest in life, fewer concerns about small things, improved ability to think and concentrate, less anxiety and concern over vague fears,  improved ability to stay on task, less distress about physical pain

Spontaneous Positive Life Style Changes
regular exercise, Tai Chi/Yoga, meditation/self hypnosis, health foods/vitamins,  vegetarian/partial vegetarian, less use of prescription medications

Overall Improvement in Quality of Life
improvement relative to: personal life, oneself, extent one adapts to change, handling of problems in life, actual life accomplishments, life as a whole, overall contentment with life, significant other,  job, life being what one wanted it to be, romantic life,  actual work done, co-workers, physical appearance

*Conducted within the Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, College of Medicine, U. of C., Irvine, CA
  *****UC Irvine is Dr. Brook’s Alma Mater*****