Key West Wellness Center

Author: Dr. Ashley Hoyt, A.P.

  • Acupuncture – A Preventative Medicine

    Acupuncture basicsMaintaining a healthy, balanced lifestyle was part of Dr. Ashley Hoyt’s early education. With older siblings already embracing the benefits of Holistic Medicine-sisters in Chiropractic and a brother in Massage Therapy, it was natural for Dr. Ashley Hoyt, A.P to enter the healing arts as well. While in college working in Massage Therapy and getting her degree in Psychology and Pre-Med, Dr. Hoyt was influenced by a prominent professor in the field of Acupuncture and the law of 5 Elements. She realized the diverse level of healing Acupuncture can provide and for over 25 years, she has practiced Therapeutic Bodywork and Acupuncture, helping her patients live a peaceful, pain-free state and to use wellness to avoid illness.

    HOW DOES ACUPUNCTURE WORK?
    The body is composed of thousands of Acupuncture points that influence organ function and the body’s internal systems. The Traditional Chinese Medical version of Acupuncture would use it as a body maintenance tool or a tune up to help us feel our best. This type of preventative Acupuncture has been shown to stave off conditions like the common cold, nausea and much more.
    The human body can be likened to a car engine as it has specific functions that require maintenance, care and attention. Ongoing Acupuncture treatments can be powerful for maintaining bodily systems and feeling your absolute best. At each appointment, the patient is evaluated to determine which points to utilize in their wellness treatments. An individualized treatment program is designed to activate and stimulate certain points to enhance their healing process. Energy flows throughout the body and when it gets blocked or becomes stagnant, health issues can arise. When energy is able to move freely, the mind, body and spirit will be peaceful and harmonious. Receiving regular Acupuncture treatments provides the necessary support the body needs.

    WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF ACUPUNCTURE?
    Acupuncture can be beneficial with addressing ongoing symptoms as well as preventative medicine to maintain optimal health. It is easier to stay healthy than get healthy, so it is the body, mind and spirit that benefit greatly from treatments, helping to prevent illness, pain and future injury. Regular Acupuncture treatments can help you to feel happier, improve digestion, strengthen your immune system, have more energy and feel more relaxed. You will sleep better and wake more rested. Even if you are rarely sick or experience pain, Acupuncture can give you a boost to feeling your absolute best. Some of our patients come for treatment when the seasons change or a few weeks before they travel. Other patients trying to avoid flare-ups in their aches and pains will continue their regular Acupuncture treatments after their pain is under control. Acupuncture treatments can be inexpensive, convenient, covered by insurance and very low risk with some significant results.

    ACUPUNCTURE INJECTION THERAPY
    Acupuncture Injection Therapy may also be used to enhance the recovery process. These injections help to improve the flow of fluids and nutrients within the body, holistically facilitating the healing and pain management process. Dr. Ashley Hoyt, A.P is one of the few Acupuncture Therapists in the US to perform Acupuncture Injection Therapy with numerous successes.

    ACUPUNCTURE AND PREVENTATIVE CARE
    Healthcare in the United States has been undergoing a significant transition as large portions of the population are now looking for wellness solutions that are proactive and forward-thinking. Many people now understand that maintenance of the body and prevention of illness require an integrative medicine and holistic approach. There has been a considerable rise in the popularity and notoriety of alternative medicine—specifically Acupuncture, which is seen as a viable solution to promoting and supporting health and well-being.
    By balancing the bodily systems with Acupuncture it is possible to feel better every day, regardless of the symptoms you may be experiencing. A good diet, exercise, and getting enough sleep, can help you stay healthy, along with regularly being in touch with your body and mind. In this, acupuncture is an extremely valuable tool.

    For more information about acupuncture and overall wellness, please contact: Key West Wellness Center – Dr. Ashley Hoyt, A.P. 3420 Duck Ave. Key West, FL 33040 Phone: 305-296-5358 Email: Contact@KeyWestWellnessCenter.com Website: www.KeyWestWellnessCenter.com

  • Holiday Treats and You

    It’s that time of year again. Back to back holidays squeezed into just a few months each and every year. I too enjoy these holidays just as much as the next person, but from a health standpoint it can be a weight, skin health and overall wellness nightmare!

    People often use the excuse”It’s just once a year. It won’t hurt” While this may be true when enjoying holiday food and drinks in moderation. That may not be the case when consumed in high quantities, it can be damaging on a cellular and metabolic level. The high-spikes and low-lows of our blood sugar can take a toll even on our physical and emotional well being.

    Here are some helpful tips on how you can control your holiday sugar intake.
    First and foremost, remember what the holidays are truly about. We can get a natural high just from the company we keep, the time we share together, the laughter, the joy the holidays bring. We may associate the consumption of over eating and high sugary snacks, drinks or desserts for having a good time, when it is possible to enjoy all in moderation while still having a great time. You know…without the unwanted guilt that may come with stirring off course from your normal routine and usual eating habits.

    Studies have shown there is a euphoric feeling that comes over us when we consume these taste good comfort treats and drinks. No tricks about it! Our minds are just releasing the hormones brought on by what we consume.
    Secondly, be in control. Remember you are in control. Never look at this approach as deprivation, rather moderation. We are in charge of how much we consume and when. Account for your caloric intake for the day. If you know you will be attending a holiday party in the evening then plan your drinks and meals during the hours leading up to the party, have a light meal every so many hours to keep up with your caloric and nutrient needs without starving yourself, but keeping room for those ever so decadent macros you will be consuming that evening. (Carbohydrate, fat, protein found in the total calories per serving) Remember to hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. One leading cause of overeating is to confuse dehydration with hunger.

    Thirdly, ration the holiday candy. If you want to have a piece from time to time, don’t be a miser, ration it out amongst family members, friends or co-workers and be sure to keep some for yourself as well!( This isn’t about deprivation, unless there is a medical reason why you shouldn’t consume certain foods or sugar.) Don’t snack on candy mindlessly either. Be “in the moment” while enjoying the candy, put down the smartphone, turn off the TV and focus on that piece of candy. You are most likely to feel satisfied and less likely to reach for more when you live in the moment.

    Lastly, have fun! If you don’t make it a big deal, it won’t be. With anything it is a matter of how we look at the situation. If you stick with enjoying tasty treats in moderation great and if not and you go a little overboard here or there, don’t waste time kicking yourself in the rear! You are more likely to be successful but having a positive outlook. Just start each day with a fresh clean slate and plan on how you want the day to unravel. That is why it is called a “habit”: regular repeated behavior.

    As long as you make it a point to want to make smart choices each and every day, eventually it will become second nature to you, the trick is to keep going, keep pressing forward. Consistency is key.
    If you already live a healthy lifestyle you are unlikely to find difficulty in getting back to your routine once the holidays are over. Remember however it is never too late or meaningless to continue with your exercise routine or begin a moderate exercise regimen. Even a brisk walk a few days in the week during the holidays will help with holiday stress among a long list of other great benefits, including burning those extra calories you may have consumed by not turning down Aunt Evelyn’s Pecan Pie… I’m sure this even made your sweet tooth perk up a smile.

    Happy Holidays! From Dr. Ashley Hoyt, A.P. and the Key West Wellness Team

    Tag us in your posts; what makes you smile, what exercise routine you may have, what treats have made their way into your life this holiday season, if you are volunteering anywhere, we would love to share these moments with you. Facebook, Instagram @KeyWestWellness
    Twitter Dr_Ashley_Hoyt

    For more information on overall wellness, please contact: Key West Wellness Center – Dr. Ashley Hoyt, A.P. 3420 Duck Ave. Key West, FL 33040 305-296-5358 Contact@KeyWestWellnessCenter.com www.KeyWestWellnessCenter.com

  • Water, Water Everywhere – Are You Drinking Enough? Part 2 of 2

    Earlier we spoke on The Importance of Drinking Water, Path to Improved Wellness, Some of the Reasons for Dehydration and How to Stay Hydrated.

    In this blog we will touch on Hydration from Other Sources, What Type of Water is Considered Healthier for us to Drink and Tips for Drinking More Water.

    Even in colder months, it is just as important to keep ourselves hydrated. Remember a cup of warm herbal fruit infused tea counts towards our daily water consumption.

    Hydration from Other Sources
    A diet containing lots of fruits and vegetables will supply about 4 cups of water per day, but it is still necessary to drink an additional 6-8 cups of water per day to meet the body’s daily needs. Water can be found in fruits and vegetables like watermelon, tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers, celery, radishes, bell peppers, spinach, strawberries, broccoli, grapefruit, apricots, grapes, zucchini, and in soup broths.

    What Type of Water is Considered Healthier for us to Drink
    Just about every source of tap water could potentially contain one or more or all of the following; harmful toxins, bacteria, viruses, heavy metals, chlorine and fluoride. Tap water is not rich with the minerals and nutrients and bottled waters are too acidic. Alkaline water hydrates more effectively and enables cells to perform at peak efficiency and with an alkaline diet is an extremely effective way to properly hydrate. This creates an oxygen-rich environment to improve energy, sleep, digestion, heart functioning, nervous system, mental acuity, pain reduction/inflammation, well-being and athletic performance.

    Best Tips for Drinking More Water a Day
    Add your own natural fruit juice or herbs for water flavoring. Adding a squeeze of citrus; lemon, orange or lime can make it more appealing to drink. Many infuse their water with herbs. You can use leaf herbs like mint to enhance the flavor of water.

    Use an App or make a chart. There are some great water apps available for smartphones like Water Logged, to help you track how much water you have consumed throughout the day and send you reminders to keep the water flowing.

    Use a water filter jug. Using a filter will purify your water, making it fresh, clear and tasty.

    Buy a reusable bottle for water and carry it with you. Keeping a bottle on hand will help to keep you hydrated. Always re-fill your glass or water bottle. You are more likely to drink more if you see water in front of you rather than an empty glass. Invest in a really nice re-useable bottle that you will actually use. Using a bottle that you will enjoy using will motivate you to carry on drinking throughout the day.

    Stay hydrated while you exercise. You get thirsty while exercising because you are losing more water through sweat.

    Drink water as your starter. When you are out for dinner a really easy way to drink more water is to have a glass before your meal. This tip could potentially aide in weight loss while keeping you hydrated.. Many times dehydration can be confused as hunger pangs. You are more likely to eat less by drinking more water.

    Eat plenty of water rich foods. These foods are healthy and will keep you fuller for longer. About 20% of your fluid intake comes from foods. (Those fruits and vegetables we mentioned)

    Drink water on your nights out. A really great tip to drink more water is to substitute every other alcoholic drink on a night out with a glass of water. This is much healthier for your body and will save you from feeling horrible the next morning. (You should still have a designated sober driver, drink responsibly)

    Drink a glass of water while your coffee is brewing. This will counteract the effects of drinking caffeine, which can dehydrate you.

    Try different types of water like, spring, mineral, sparking and flavored water. Also look for Coconut water and other plant based waters. Whatever helps to make water more enjoyable for you is best.

    Be sure water is accessible to you while you travel. Driving and travel dehydrates us.

    Swap the sugary drinks, fruit juices and fizzy drinks for a glass of water. Reducing your sugar level will help in weight loss, blood sugar management, hydration and help maintain healthy oral hygiene.

    Always be sure that your water intake is within reason and for health benefits. There is such thing as drinking too much…

    For more information on overall wellness, please contact: Key West Wellness Center – Dr. Ashley Hoyt, A.P. 3420 Duck Ave. Key West, FL 33040 305-296-5358 Contact@KeyWestWellnessCenter.com www.KeyWestWellnessCenter.com

    Sources: WEBmd, Mayo Clinic, Huff Post, Harvard Health, FamilyDoctor.org, Musclemagfitness.com, beautyhealthwellness.org, Healthfutures.nea.org, Self.com