By

Jake Anthony

(C) ‘IQ Inc’. 1990. 2009.

3
Jake Anthony

The driving force behind this series

of publications was born in England,
just one year into World War Two.
People dying not in combat
but from health problems relating to
lifestyle, including his own parents,
was the life-amending catalyst which
launched Jake Anthony’s lifelong
interest in health, fitness and life
extension - and a search for answers.
A wish to become a professional actor and writer was ful-
filled through hard work and dedication against the odds, and Jake
Anthony obtained a degree of ‘celebrity’ over the years. His work
as a character actor can still be seen on TV from time to time.
Jake also became one of the most published writers who
nobody knows about! This was due to his work going mainly
uncredited as an internationally published journalist in advertising
and PR; under pseudonyms as author, with many ‘to-kill-for’ re-
views; and as editor and/or ghost writer for others. Jake had a
couple of small ‘best sellers’ in the East and the West, and is the
man behind a handful of ‘cult’ novels which change hands for
large sums via on-line booksellers.
4
 Another life-amending incident occurred when his extremely
fit and healthy actor and stunt man son, died from an interaction
between prescribed drugs. Like ‘Lord Jim’ - Joseph Conrad’s char-
acter in the book and movie - Jake left his homeland and wan-
dered the Orient for 20 plus years trying to make sense of it all.
This was interrupted by a series of health disasters at the
hands of the allopathic medical system in the West which would
have killed most people. Ironically, they were initiated by prescribed
drugs that were supposed to cure, not kill. This was added to by
the Western system of treating the symptom rather than fully iden-
tifying the cause.
Jake’s series of the potential lifestyle based killers included
cancer, crisis level hypertension, borderline type-2 diabetes, acute
and chronic pancreatitis, and gallstones. As prescribed drugs had
initiated his series of interlinked health disasters - and time after
time exacerbated them - Jake turned his back on the Western
medical system and from then on utilised nutritional, holistic and
alternative therapies known about for thousands of years in the
Orient and the East. His host of ailments regressed or were con-
trolled, and extra decades of life were obtained. Some joint prob-
lems came later, but you would not believe it when you see the
author pumping iron and skipping (jump rope) like an in-shape boxer.
The author’s ‘beating the odds’ experience and use of ho-
listic and alternative therapies, almost certainly played a part in his
survival. The ‘How To’ and ‘Why’ are detailed in this series of
books. Jake’s fit and youthful appearance belies the fact that he is
technically a senior citizen, well over the age of retirement.
Knowledge is power. Your choice.

5
 Packaged by IQ Inc.
International licencing enquiries:
publicrelationsiqinc@hotmail.com
www.iqincmedia.com

(C) 1990. 2009.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be re-

printed or reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or trans-
mitted in any form or by any means, mechanical, electronic,
photocopying, recording or otherwise, except for brief ex-
tracts for the purpose of review, without prior permission in
writing from the publisher.

ISBN: 978-974-576-471-2

First Pressing: E-Book: 2009.

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CONTENTS

1. NATURAL BIRTH

The Active Birth Centre

Active Birth and Parenting Courses
Birth Without Violence
A Kinder Approach to the Birth Process

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2. CARING THERAPIES FOR MOTHER AND CHILD

Massage For Babies and Infants

Benefits of Infant Massage
Baby & Infant Massage Techniques - An Instant Guide
Glossary of Massage Terms
Baby Massage Precautions
Massage for Mothers
Types of Massage - An Instant Guide
Reflexology - An Instant Guide
Reflexology - Do’s and Dont’s
Cranial Osteopathy - What is it and Why?
Cranial Osteopathy - Potential Problems At Birth
Cranial Osteopathy - Potential Problems For the Newborn Baby
Cranial Osteopathy for Childhood Complaints
Cranial Osteopathy Treatment - An Instant Guide
Osteopathy - Reactions To Treatment
Some Success Stories
Meditation for Adults
Meditation for Kids
Acupuncture
Nutrition During Pregnancy
Herbs Used During Pregnancy
Herbs That Help During Pregnancy, Birth & Lactation
Herbs to Avoid During Pregnancy
More Herbs to be Avoided During Pregnancy

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3. AYURVEDA

Knowledge of Life
How to Live a Healthy Life - An Instant Guide
Traditional Ayurvedic Herbal Remedies
Ayurvedic Herbal Remedies - An Instant Guide

4. NUTRITION DURING PREGNANCY

What Should Pregnant Mothers Eat?

A Balanced Diet For Pregnant Mothers
What Should Pregnant Mother’s Drink?
Fluids For Pregnant Mothers - An Instant Guide
Mineral Waters - An Instant Guide
The Health Benefits of Water
Foods to be Avoided During Pregnancy

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5. NURTURING THROUGH DIET

Breast-Feeding
Breast-Milk, Cow’s Milk & Soy - An Instant Analysis
Dangers When Feeding Baby
Breast-feeding - Reasons Why
Herbs to be Avoided During Pregnancy and Lactation
Vegetarian Weaning - An Instant Guide
Introducing Solid Foods - An Instant Guide
Nutritional Groups For Baby - An Instant Guide
Vegetarian Food for the One to Five Year Old
A Balanced Vegetarian Diet
Healthy Snacks for Little Vegetarians
Nutritional Groups For the Family

6. SMART NUTRIENTS

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7. FEEL GOOD FOODS

Feel-Good-Foods
Feel-Good Foods - An Instant Guide
Foods That Fight Stress
Foods That Fight Stress - An Instant Guide
Why organic is Best.
Yes, Organic Truly is Best.
Additives in Supermarket Foods Can Kill You
Concentrated Fruit Juices Are Not The Real Thing.
Maximising the Vitamin Content of Your Diet -
An Instant Guide
Do Not Microwave Your Food

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8. DEVELOPMENTAL PROBLEMS AND DIET

Diet, Disruptive Children, Hyperactivity & Attention Deficit

Indications of a Hyperactive Child
General Behavioural Problems
Substances Which Can Trigger Hyperactivity in
Children
The Hyperactive Children’s Support Centre Allergy Question-
naire

REFERENCE NOTES

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

(Homoeopathy)
Ainsworths Homeopathic Pharmacy, London. UK

(Homoeopathy)
Mark Hessey, London, UK.

(Nutrition)
Dr. Robert J. Woodward B.Pharm., Ph.D., M.Royal Pharm.
Soc., C.Chem., F.R.S.C. London.

(Cognitive Development)
Professor Robert Plomin. Institute of Psychiatry, London,
England.

(Fluoridation)
Jane Jones. National Pure Water Association, UK.

(Hyperactivity)
Sally Bunday and Irene Colquhoun.
Hyperactive Children’s Support Group, England.

• The knowledge, experience and assistance provided

by all of the above, was invaluable in
the compilation of this publication.

13
 • Thanks are offered to the many scientists,nutritionists,
naturopaths, social scientists, psychologists,
educational psychologists and professionals in a wide range
of disciplines throughout the world, whose work has been
utilised as reference material in the
‘Holistic Health’ series of publications.

Cover Design: Bird and Jake Anthony.

NB. The content of this publication is for information

purposes only. It should not be used as a substitute for
the advice of a physician, naturopath or other certified
health care practitioner. The products and holistic
procedures discussed herein are not intended to
diagnose, cure, prevent or treat any disease.

14
 Foreword
Holistic and naturopathic treatments do not just consider the symp-
tom but treat the whole person.
In the Western world, a non-holistic approach tends to domi-
nate in the fields of medicine and general health. However, as
animals and people build resistance to antibiotics and drugs - in
addition to the fact that many drugs have adverse side-effects -
more and more people are investigating holistic and naturopathic
treatments. This kinder, people-friendly approach to good health
and well-being is fast gaining ground.
A naturopathic and holistic approach to life has long been
established in Asia and the Orient, and many of the therapies in-
cluded in this publication emanate from these ancient societies.
Natural birth procedures are a part of the growing move-
ment towards a more instinctive and intuitive way of living - before
high-tech and bureaucracy started treating us as if we were its
servants, instead of the other way round.
Good health both mental and physical, are vital elements in
the growth and development of a child.
A balanced diet plays an important part in the search for
good health in its widest sense, and organic foods are very much a
part of the growing movement towards a more natural way of
living. Information as to what does what and why, is something
everyone should be aware of. A comprehensive and easy to
understand guide to foods for nursing mothers and growing
children is essential.
Knowledge is power. Your choice.
15
 1
Natural Birth

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THE ACTIVE BIRTH CENTRE

Caring for your child commences at or before conception, regard-

ing the manner in which mother and father take care of them-
selves. Informed preparation for mother’s confinement is the next
important step, and this is where organisations such as the Active
Birth Centre can assist.
Based in London but with regional personnel and expanding
to other nations, the Active Birth Centre provide courses and prac-
tical help on the subjects of pregnancy, childbirth and parenting. In
particular, holistic and natural ways to give birth. Through the Ac-
tive Birth Centre there are choices. With the aid of the Internet -
www.activebirthcentre.com - those choices are international.
Mothers-to-be can establish whether a birthing chair might
be an alternative way to bring their child into the world, where
mother is seated in a commode seat and gravity does much of the
work; a water birth, where mother sits or floats in warm water and
the child enters the world submerged; the possibilities of using a
clinical hypnotist; preparation for birth with yoga; acupuncture for
pain relief at time of birth and with pregnancy related ailments
such as high blood pressure; carpal tunnel syndrome, morning sick-
ness and general aches and pains, there are alternatives to con-
ventional, hospital birth procedures
Other methods such as the Alexander Technique, which
works by improving posture; traditional Thai massage, a powerful
therapy that combines gentle, passive stretching with applied pres-
sure on important energy lines running throughout the body; or
simply a more sensitive atmosphere with low light and soothing
music, can be planned and assisted with the support of the Active
Birth Centre.
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 There is also homoeopathy, which can be a safe alternative
to drugs during pregnancy and childbirth. Homoeopathy can be
used as an effective first line of treatment, or as a complement to
conventional medical care. Remedies may be used postnatally for
mothers with fatigue, mastitis or depression, and for babies with
colic, eczema, teething problems, sleeplessness or allergies.
Osteopathy is another treatment which is becoming more
widespread during and after pregnancy. This therapy can be very
helpful to pregnant mothers in the relief of back ache, fluid reten-
tion, tiredness, digestive problems, postnatal depression and gen-
eral lack of energy. All can be successfully treated by osteopathy.
It is also recommended that every baby receives a craniosacral
check, as birth compression may be the cause of imbalance in the
baby’s body. Craniosacral treatment is gentle, and can success-
fully treat or prevent many problems.
Aromatherapy is an alternative therapy which can help al-
leviate ailments during or after pregnancy. However, aromatherapy
oils are powerful and should only be used during pregnancy under
the supervision of a qualified practitioner. The Active Birth Centre
can advise in this respect. High blood pressure, oedema, back pain
and digestive problems can be relieved utilising this therapy, and
body and mind can be rebalanced postnatally with positive results
in reducing trauma and stress. Aromatherapy with accupressure
massage offers a further alternative, combining aromatherapy with
accupressure meridian massage.
Yoga can also assist towards a more fulfilled and less stressful
birth. The Centre provides weekly 2 hour sessions of gentle yoga
and breathing, to help prepare mothers for birth and mothering -
emotionally and physically.
In the modern world, bodies need to be reminded of their
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instinctive potential. Yoga can provide the key to a relaxed and
enjoyable pregnancy, helping the expectant mother to discover trust
and confidence in her body. Many of the gentle yoga postures
(asanas) are similar to birthing positions. The body gradually ab-
sorbs this knowledge, enabling the mother to move freely and in-
stinctively in labour, and use supported squatting positions with ease
when giving birth. Sessions also focus on learning the rhythm of
breathing and to align the mother’s body with gravity. This assists
towards a more comfortable pregnancy and empowers the mother
to cope better with the intensity of labour.
If a water pool for labour and birth is intended, the focus on
awareness of the breath and yoga positions can be an invaluable
tool in water as it is on land.
Expectant mothers are encouraged to practice a few es-
sential exercises at home between sessions, and to focus more
deeply on the pregnancy. The benefits of this positive approach
also extends to baby.
Manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is a specialised and gentle
skin massage. It can be especially helpful during and after preg-
nancy for the relief of fluid retention. It can also relieve pain and
promote a deep state of relaxation. This is just one of many options
available through the Active Birth Centre.
Since the first Active Birth Centre was founded in 1985, by
Janet Balaskas and Keith Brainin, the organisation has success-
fully encouraged thousands of women to discover the joy and sat-
isfaction of an Active Birth. The Centre also pioneered a nation-
wide water pool hire service and has installed birth pools in many
state run hospitals (NHS).

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ACTIVE BIRTH & PARENTING COURSES

The wide variety of part day or full day practical workshops are
open to expectant parents and midwives alike. These take place in
the UK and internationally. Workshops clearly describe the ben-
efits and advantages of an active birth, and include practical work
on birth positions, partner participation and massage.
Workshops complement hospital or other classes, and act
as an excellent refresher in late pregnancy or as an introduction to
active birth in early pregnancy. First time parents are advised to
attend the ‘Preparing for Labour & Birth’ course in addition to
‘The Active Birth Workshop.’

‘Preparing for Labour & Birth’

This fully comprehensive, introductory course for couples or sin-

gles is held over four sessions or two full days. Whether parents
are hoping to have a natural active birth, planning to use a water
pool, or considering an epidural, it is important to approach the birth
event well informed and with an open mind.

‘The Active Birth Workshop’

This course provides essential information and guidance to par-

ents, so that informed choices can be made. A full range of options
are available for home birth or hospital delivery, with the emphasis
on discovering the mother’s potential for a natural, active birth.

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‘Preparing for Labour & Birth’

This course covers the physiology of labour and birth; birth options
such as using a water pool in labour and for birth; supported up-
right birthing positions; natural birth, breathing, movement, posi-
tions and massage; pain relief from homeopathy to epidurals; in-
duction and assisted birth; prolonged labour and breech presenta-
tion; how to avoid foetal distress; assertiveness and negotiation
skills; and making a birth plan.

‘The Water Birth Workshop’

This course is essential for anyone considering using a water pool

for labour or birth, and of interest to anyone who is pregnant or
working with women in labour. Participants are introduced to the
philosophy behind water birth as well as the history and pioneers
who first used a water pool.
The workshop includes an explanation of how and why water
helps the birthing process, and gives detailed information about
monitoring, birth underwater, bonding and breast-feeding in water.
Both practical and experiential aspects are covered as well as the
latest research.
This workshop also covers the special capabilities of the
newborn in an aquatic environment, and encourages parents to
explore the possibilities for young babies to swim early.
Slides and video extracts are shown and, if a pool is avail-
able, it is sometimes possible to try it. Mothers are therefore ad-
vised to bring a swimsuit and towel if interested.
Participants are recommended to attend the ‘Active Birth
Workshop’ in addition to the ‘Water Birth Workshop’.
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‘Parents as Architects’

This workshop helps parents discover how to become effective

parents by learning to communicate with their baby in a direct and
level way; understanding and coping with the depth of feelings that
having a baby normally evokes, from joy and love to jealousy and
rage; and creative management of conflict and stress. Exploring
the ways that we were parented ourselves, and how this role model
underlies the way we parent our children, help create a vision for
shared parenting with a partner or significant other person.
More than anything else, a baby needs loving parents who
communicate well with each other and are willing to prioritise their
relationship - to baby and one another. Single parenting can also
work well when there is an alternative and consistent support sys-
tem in place. All these factors are explored in ‘Parents as Archi-
tects’.

· Much of this chapter was based on literature kindly provided

by ‘The Active Birth Centre’.

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The Active Birth Centre holds a wide range of workshops and
classes which include the physiology of breast-feeding, why breast-
milk is the ideal food for baby, the rhythm and timing of feeds,
what to do when your baby cries, common problems and how to
avoid them, going back to work, emotions and sexuality after birth,
bathing baby, sleep patterns and more.
Other workshops encompass: ‘Massage for Pregnancy &
Labour’; ‘Using Aromatherapy Essential Oils’; ‘Chinese Herbal
Medicine with Aromatherapy and Reflexology’; ‘Tai Chi and Heal-
ing Meditation’; ‘Yoga’; ‘Resuscitation & First Aid for Babies’;
‘Life in the Womb’; ‘Nutritional Medicine’.
The work of the Active Birth Centre continues postnatally,
to enable new parents to enhance the quality of family life and
support them through the challenges of the early years. The Cen-
tre has an expanding programme for parents, midwives, active
birth teachers, health professionals and infant massage instruc-
tors. There is also a ‘well baby’ clinic and programmes for babies.
Very importantly, workshop coordinators and project team
members are exceptionally well qualified, and are usually experi-
enced parents themselves.
Teacher training courses and a network of certified Active
Birth teachers throughout the UK and in other countries, allow
pregnant women to actively participate in the birth process.
There are choices and alternatives, and you can insist upon
a less clinical atmosphere when baby is born if that is what you
would prefer. Bright lights, drug dosages and impersonal nursing
staff do not have to be the accepted standard [1].
NB. Home births, natural child birth and water births re-
quire advance planning plus professional supervision. A DIY ap-
proach is not recommended other than in an extreme emergency.
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