Dr Mike, a doctor-professor, curates some wonderful online videos that are short and inspirational to help people make positive changes for their health.

In this 4 minute video Dr Mike proposes a movement called 'Make your day harder'

Dr Mike considers why the baby-boomer generation suffer more health issues than their previous 'mad-men' generation despite smoking less and apparently exercising more.

Do you shop on the internet, have an electric toothbrush or even one of those automatic self-driving vacuum cleaners? Do you communicate with your children via text-message even when you are all under the same roof? If you can answer yes to any of these then you definitely want to watch this short video.

The pain process is a complex and intelligent signalling system between the affected area of the body and the brain. This system is ultimately trying to protect us but it seems we can trick ourselves by making the pain sensation far worse relative to the injury.

In a recent article called "What happens when we feel pain?" I explored this pain process including questioning why pain can become persistent, how unhelpful thoughts play a role as well as best treatment and pain management techniques.

Here are two excellently presented, intriguing and entertaining videos by Professor Lorimer Moseley, a clinical scientist investigating pain in humans.

These are well worth a watch. Enjoy.

In a previous post "Should I Go Barefoot Or Stick With Trainers?" Simon explored some thoughts on the barefoot running technique that has become popular in minimalist circles.

Simon's objective review of the different fore foot strike patterns revealed he has himself adopted a slightly altered running position but clearly points out that barefoot running is not for everyone. In his own case, an over-pronator with a leg length discrepancy reliant on the use of orthotics, he makes a good point that barefoot running is probably not the best idea for him.

We all need to take such an honest and reflective view of our own biomechanics and medical history if considering the barefoot running style.

Here are two videos that will add insight and provoke thoughts well worth considering …

Baby Lia Ryley - born 30th April

We are excited to announce the arrival of Simon and Lorraine's second child. Lorraine and baby are in great health and resting well. Thank you for all the kind wishes we have received. 

Lorraine will be on maternity leave until November 2013 and until her return Simon, Katie and Paula will be taking very good care of Lorraine's clients. 

May 2013 Dublin Events

Dublin City Soul Festival May 23rd – 26th

This is Ireland’s feel-good festival, raising funds for the Musical Youth Foundation children’s charity. If you fancy a mood uplifting and vibrant place to be this might be the perfect choice later this month.
Visit the official website here

Bloom 2013 in Phoenix Park May 30th - June 3rd

For all you runners out there - how aware are you of your running style?

In this short 18 second video chrisjohnsonpt.com demonstrates how a runner with dysfunctional lower body mechanics employs an unusual upper body motion to compensate.

As indicated by the author such a running style is not sustainable.

Continue to view the video.

So you think you know how to tie your shoes laces? Maybe not. 

I remember many years ago an assistant from a specialist running store in South Africa showing me this lace tying technique. I had forgotten so was chuffed to discover this article and video. Over at Chris Johnson PT the article describes how and why lace tying can be an important factor in post injury running. Although, I bet it is a good technique to use generally. Take a look at this short video here...

What's the best technique to help with speed, efficiency and a reduced risk of running injuries? This has become a hot topic of debate with no firm conclusions. Its important to consider each runner as an individual and what works for one person may not work for another. I've been experimenting recently...

Dr Mike did it again - another wonderfully engaging short (6min) illustrated video about how and why we might succeed with our New Year resolutions and what they are likely to be.

It is estimated that half of us will make some form of New Year resolution - but, will we succeed with it in the long run? Dr Mike admits to having a different perspective on what it takes to be successful and relates the power of reflection to Janus (of whom January was named after) the two-faced Roman God of beginnings and transitions who looks both into the past and the future.

There is hardly an occasion when you could pinpoint a single best thing for a particular cause. But when it comes to human health there does seem to be one thing that everyone seems to agree on. Dr Mike, whose interest and messages in preventative medicine we really like, presents a highly engaging and powerful short video called 23 and 1/2 hours claiming with research to support what the single best thing for our health is.

Watch it now.