Showing posts with label immune system. Show all posts
Showing posts with label immune system. Show all posts

Tuesday, September 22, 2020

COVID-19, a spiritual perspective

This pandemic is not about blaming China for bat viruses, berating scientific research, or finding the perfect vaccine. This is the time to develop spiritual resilience. We are facing an existential challenge. An existential challenge has to do with human existence. When we face big questions, which involve the meaning of life and our continued existence, we are wrestling with an existential crisis. This crisis challenges us to question our continued existence and purpose in life. This is the true, inherent, spiritual work of living.  Some of us choose to participate in soul evolution, and some choose to pursue life as if it is a game. The existential crisis is a serious pattern of thinking. It is possible for the aware, thoughtful person to master the crisis and move past these challenges with greater understanding and enhanced resilience. 

I have a great empathy and compassion for those individuals experiencing the COVID-19 virus. Their suffering pains me deeply. As a child, I also had a unique, unknown virus that put me in isolation in the hospital. Long after the body is seemingly well, the mind and spirit remember the aloneness and fear. That was a devastating experience for me and impacted the rest of my life. That's why I take the current COVID-19 crisis very seriously.

Why do the scientists and directors of our well-known health institutions (NIH, CDC, etc.) overwhelm us with facts and data and charts? Why do they seemingly not care about empowering the individual toward healthy lifestyle choices and strengthening the immune system?  Do they think this is unimportant? I am sure they realize the importance of healthy lifestyle choices and a strong immune system. But as professional, ethical persons they know the limits of their job. The answer is, they want us to take this seriously, and they are not the family doctor. They are researchers, so they talk research. Every person should be talking to their own family doctor about proactive, lifestyle activities to enhance immunity.

It is up to you to look after your personal daily life and analyze what is out of balance. Does the lack of balance live in the realm of mind, body or spirit? Do your research online about mind/body activities, immune enhancing foods and supplements, and incorporate immune strengthening activities into your daily life. Review your thought patterns, are they building psychological resilience? It is my theory, that those individuals who are not in the at-risk age range and have no underlying health conditions, should review the mind and spirit aspects of life for precipitating factors that left you vulnerable to the virus. Consider your stress levels, personality characteristic, how do you define a successful life, do you take as much as much care with your own needs as the needs of others, are you at peace with your relationships with self/others/community/God?

I understand the medical scientists caution about lifestyle suggestions because they are interested in giving the facts. But researched facts are not the totality of the story. I believe we should practice proactive, daily activities to maintain a healthy lifestyle and strengthen the immune system.

FIRST STEPS to a stronger immune system https://www.kemin.com/na/en-us/blog/human-nutrition/five-factors-that-affect-immune-system


1.      Hand Washing

People tend to overestimate their hygiene. Studies show that only 67% of people wash their hands after using a public restroom, vs. 85% who report washing their hands after public restroom use. 1,2 And even if you do wash your hands, you may not be doing it correctlyCenters for Disease Control recommends 15 seconds of scrubbing your hands with soap, or humming the “Happy Birthday” song TWO TIMES! 1 You should try it - it feels like an eternity when you’re standing in front of a mirror in a public restroom, next to a stranger that you might be trying to avoid talking to. As you probably know, the restroom isn’t the only place you should be washing your hands. But studies show we do a better job in the restroom, likely due to social pressure and the convenient location of soap and a sink. An even smaller percentage of people report washing their hands after participating in other activities that significantly increase risk of exposure to microbes like petting a dog or cat (42% of people), handling money (27% of people), and coughing or sneezing (39% of people). 2


2. Sleep Cycles

The immune system is influenced by the sleep-wake cycles of our circadian rhythms. Studies suggest that while we’re sleeping, we have decreased levels of the stress hormone cortisol, which can suppress immune function, and increased signals that activate the immune system. 4 Even though we know that sleep is important, it can be difficult to get enough, especially during busy times of the year. According to a Gallup survey, 56% of adults say they get enough sleep. However, 7 hours is the minimum recommended amount of sleep for adults and only 40% of us are averaging 6.8 hours of sleep per night. 


3. Nutrients from Food

Everywhere we turn, we see PSAs, news stories and blogs boasting the importance of fruits and vegetables for a plethora of health reasons, and the same applies to immune health. Studies show vitamins C, A, E, B6 and B12 and minerals like iron and zinc are important for the maintenance of immune function, all of which can be found in fruits and veggies. 7 If you’re a clean-eating enthusiast, you’re probably getting enough of these vitamins and minerals, but many of us aren’t. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends 4.5 cups of fruit and vegetables per day. 5


4. Cortisol Levels

Another challenge that plagues our immune system is a familiar foe to many of us. STRESS. Hectic work schedules and abundant daily responsibilities can leave us frazzled. Increased levels of the stress hormone, cortisol, makes it difficult for the immune system to function properly. The American Psychological Association reports that 75% of Americans experience moderate to high levels of stress8,9 In addition to the direct impact of stress on immune function, unmanaged stress can influence our sleep patterns, our mood, our dietary intake and our physical activity levels. All of these factors are associated with immune system function. 8


5. Supplement Intake

To promote and support healthy behaviors, supplements and fortified foods have been widely used to support immune health. According to Nutraingredients, 29% of supplement users take an immune health product. 11Beta-glucan is an emerging ingredient in immune health supplements. Beta-glucan is a naturally occurring glucose polymer or insoluble fiber found in cereal grains like oat and barley, certain types of mushrooms, yeast, seaweed, and algae. Although all types of beta-glucan have some health benefit, the beta-glucan found in yeast, mushrooms and algae can provide benefits that support immune health10 


FIRST STEPS to Boost Your Emotional Resilience, Backed by Research, https://time.com/4306492/boost-emotional-resilience/

 

  • Foster optimism: Don’t be in denial. See the world clearly but believe in your abilities.

 

  • Face your fears: Hiding from fear makes it worse. Face it and you overcome it.

 

  • Have a moral compass: A strong feeling of right and wrong tells us we must when we feel we can’t.

 

  • Practice spirituality: Be a part of a group that has strong beliefs.

 

  • Give and receive social support: Tapping on the wall of your cell can keep you going.

 

  • Imitate resilient role models: Or have people you know you do not want to be.

 

  • Physical fitness: Exercise adapts your body to stress.

 

  • Be a lifelong learner: Keep your brain sharp and it will give you solutions when you need them most.

 

  • Have a number of ways to cope: Be like Navy SEALs and Special Forces operators — and laugh.

 

  • Have meaning in your life: Don’t just do a job; have a calling and a purpose. 

 

15 Foods That Boost the Immune System

https://greatist.com/health/immune-boosting-foods#bell-peppers

 

Bell peppers, red, yellow, green

 

Citrus fruits, oranges, lemons, limes, grapefruits, tangerines, clementines 

 

Shellfish, lobster, crab, clams, oysters, mussels

 

sunflower seeds

 ginger

 

 garlic 

 

broccoli

 

yogurt

 

spinach

 

almonds

 

chicken soup 

 

Kiwi

 

papaya

 

green tea 

 

elderberry

 

mushrooms

 

acai

 

watermelon

 

Wheat germ

 

sweet potatoes, 

 

miso

 

pomegranates

  

I just finished an excellent online course by T Colin Campbell and eCornell university. To maintain a healthy immune system, one should avoid dairy, limit the amount of meat you eat, and eat as many raw vegetables, beans, and whole grains as possible. 


Practice resilience!!

 

 

Monday, August 29, 2016

Romaine Lettuce Nutrition and Health Benefits

Recently, I learned that Romaine lettuce has more calcium than kale. That surprised me. I never think of green leafy vegetables as being good for my bones, which is a very real concern for many post-menopausal women.

Romaine lettuce is native to western Asia and the eastern Mediterranean region. Lettuce has a long history with drawings appearing on walls of ancient Egyptian tombs. The cultivation of lettuce seems to date back to at least 4500 BC and the ancient Greeks and Romans valued it as a food and for its medicinal properties.

Romaine lettuce, or “cos lettuce,” is a variety of lettuce from the Lactuca sativa L. var. longifolia plant family. It is tall head of sturdy leaves with characteristic firm ribs down the center.
Romaine lettuce traces historically back to the Greek island hundreds of years ago to the island of Cos where the lettuce was first introduced and gets its name.

It spread to Rome where it received its Italian name “romaine.” It is very common in the Mediterranean region and has become popularized in other areas of the world, especially as the primary ingredient in the classic “Caesar salad”. Romaine lettuce is often used in the traditional Passover Seders as a type of bitter herb to symbolize the “bitterness” the Israelites felt as slaves in Egypt thousands of years ago.

Romaine Lettuce Health Benefits:

Excellent Source of Antioxidants Vitamin A and Vitamin C

Helps Prevent Bone Loss

Boosts Heart Health

Promotes Healthy Eye Sight

Helps Heal Skin & Prevent Signs of Aging

Boosts Immunity

Can Help Fight Cancer

Helps Maintain a Healthy Pregnancy

Can Help with Weight Loss

Helps Digestion & Intestine Health

Lettuces are a low calorie green-vegetables and are filled with phyto-nutrients that promote health and help prevent disease.  Romaine includes good amounts of minerals like iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium that are essential for metabolism: Potassium helps control heart rate and blood pressure, manganese is a co-factor for the antioxidant enzyme (superoxide dismutase), copper is needed in the production of red blood cells, and iron is essential for red blood cell formation. Romaine contains the B-complex group of vitamins like thiamin, vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine), riboflavins. A diet that often includes lettuce salads aides in preventing osteoporosis, iron-deficiency anemia, and believed to protect from cardiovascular diseases, ARMD, Alzheimer's disease and cancers.

The fresh Romaine leaves contain Vitamin A and beta carotenes which are essential for healthy mucus membranes, skin, and vision. Rich in vitamin K, Romaine helps promote bone building activity inside the bone cells. Alzheimer's disease patients will benefit from the vitamin K that may limit neuronal damage in the brain. Folates which are part of enzyme metabolism are required for DNA synthesis and play a vital role in preventing neural tube defects in the baby during pregnancy. Vitamin C, a powerful natural antioxidant, helps build resistance against infectious agents while destroying body damaging, inflammatory free radicals. An important dietary carotenoid in lettuce is absorbed into the retina of the eye, where it aides in filtering UV rays falling on the retina, and may offer some protection against age-related macular degeneration.

Romaine lettuce is easy to add into your diet, very nutritious, is known to not ease digestion and is a wonderful fiber source. Romaine is high in water content, minerals, and fiber content. It helps keep digestion, elimination, and helps the body get get rid of toxins.

Like all leafy greens, romaine lettuce easily absorbs pesticides and chemicals that are sprayed on conventional, non-organic crops. Salad greens are generally highly sprayed since they grow close to the ground and are susceptible for bugs and rodents. Look for and buy organic Romaine lettuce and salad greens to limit exposure to environmental toxins.

When buying Romaine, choose leaves that are sturdy, free of browning and be sure to avoid buying leaves that have slimy spots or brown and yellow patches. The milky fluid found in Romaine creates the characteristic fine-bitter herb taste. Romaine greens, which are sold with their roots attached will stay fresh for longer. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for 5-7 days. If you wrap the roots in a damp paper towel and place them in a plastic bag they will stay hydrated and fresh longer.

When shopping, look for and choose leaves that are fresh, crispy, free of dark or slimy spots, and bright in color with compact heads. Avoid plants with sunken leaves with spots or discoloration. Many people only wash fresh vegetables right before use to avoid water standing on the leaves creating the condition for plant deterioration.  However, some recommend that Romaine and loose leaf-lettuces should be washed making sure excess water is removed before storing in the refrigerator, while Butter head does not need washing before storage. Packed in a plastic bag and keep inside the refrigerator, Romaine will stay fresh for up to seven days while, Butter head and loose-leaf lettuce types loose vital energy after two to three days. Typically, organic vegetables last longer.

To prepare Romaine remove any outer tough, discolored leaves and trim off browned and bitter tips. Chop the leaf to a desired, salad-bite size and discard the white bottom stem or root portion.
Soaking in salt water for a few minutes will remove sand, parasite eggs, and worms. My mother always recommended soaking in clean water at least three times, or after a salt soak you may wash leaves in clean running water. Pat the leaves dry or use a salad spinner to remove the excess water—this is essential to get the salad dressing proportions correct.

The fiber in Romaine helps remove bile salts from the body and also breaks down cholesterol. Romaine lettuce’s calories are 20 percent protein but the amount can be increased by combining with other balanced proteins such as nuts and sunflower seeds. The leaves have relaxing, sleep inducing properties (similar to opium) but without the strong side effects. Romaine has minerals keep the body’s acid/alkaline balance in order, which creates a host of benefits including greater energy, clearer thinking, deep restful sleep, and youthful skin. Because Romaine lettuce is typically eaten raw, it contains micronutrients which are destroyed in cooked or processed food, as well as vital energies.

To reap the benefits of Romaine lettuce, buy organic romaine lettuce or grow your own crop using organic methods. Scientific studies show that outer leaves have the highest phytonutrient content and antioxidant properties. Green leafy vegetables start to lose their nutritional value immediately after harvest so eat them as soon as possible. When you use an oil-based salad dressing the fat-soluble carotenoids in romaine are more available to your body. Avoid storing romaine near fruits, like apples, which produce ethylene gases as these gases continue the ripening process leading to spoilage.

http://preventdisease.com/news/14/041214_10-Reasons-Should-Be-Eating-Romaine-Lettuce.shtml

http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/lettuce.html

https://draxe.com/romaine-lettuce-nutrition/

















Saturday, August 27, 2016

Donald Trump Desperate for Sleep

Donald Trump brags that he only needs three to four hours of sleep a night. He claims this proves he would be a better president than anyone else—because he is high energy. Obviously Mr. Trump has experienced this sleep deprived pattern for many years and has developed a personal philosophy (based on his belief in his own superiority) that this behavior pattern is perfect. However, science and medical research tell us the effects of sleep deprivation can be dangerous.

Trump displays signs of sleep deprivation. His thinking is overly generalized and verbal communication is random, vague, "hazy," and sentences are simplistic, poorly constructed when not reading from a teleprompter. He displays an irritability, or a growing anger and near hatred of everything and everyone that does not agree completely with his point of view.

Trump seems to have an addiction to late night twitting (internet massaging.) Our reliance on technology creates the conditions for sleep deprivation. Technology is highly stimulating---looking at a monitor answering e-mails, mental problem solving, playing on the Xbox, or watching highly dramatic, exciting TV. The body responds as if you are in the action yourself. Your heart rate and metabolism increase and your mind races to keep up. Once you’re over-stimulated it is difficult to calm down and fall asleep.

How much sleep does an adult need? Individual needs are different, however, an adult should sleep 7 to 9 hours a night to maintain healthy biorhythms. The point is to get adequate sleep to wake rested. Those living with extreme stress (for example physical abuse, war, or refugee situations) and have ongoing sleep deprivation may display altered behavior. 

Dr. Harold L. Williams and associates at the Walter Reed Army Institute of Research found the mental symptoms and effects of sleep deprivation are gradual over time. At first they may be unnoticed but become quiet profound including a “number of mental, emotional, and physical disturbances such as; progressive deterioration of mental functioning, reduction of attention span, weariness, fatigue, and possibly isolation.” After ninety hours of sleep deprivation, one develops vivid hallucinations and may end up in psychosis.

Hara Estroff Marano, in Psychology Today, tells us the sleep patterns of Americans are getting worse and increasingly out of phase with the natural rhythm.

The sun establishes natural biorhythms through an elaborate system of signals initiated by light. When light strikes our eyes nerve cells in our eyes respond to the wavelengths of natural light and signal the brain. These light signals send messages to the brain and body system coordinating the interactive nature of different body systems.

Our biological clocks are set in cycles of approximately 24 hours are in harmony with the natural world around us. The body is designed to sleep and wake in a cycle of roughly 24 hours called circadian rhythm. Study after study demonstrates that physiologically and psychologically functioning is best when our internal cycles are well-synchronized with the cycles of the sun and external world.

Marano tells us if we mess up our sleep and wake patterns, we feel out of sorts, mood suffers, alertness wanes and concentration falters. Our memory gets shoddy, performance on important tasks takes a dive, you don't feel coherent, and we may not even be able to speak coherently.

The body's major systems run on circadian (biorhythms) rhythms for example cardiovascular activity has a circadian pattern, as does body temperature, metabolic functions and liver and kidney function.
Lack of sleep compromises the immune system leading to a greater likelihood of colds or flu, as well as disrupting hormone rhythm.

Dr. Roseanne Armitage, a sleep expert at the University of Michigan, warns the sleep patterns of Americans are getting worse and increasingly out of phase with the natural environmental rhythm. Individuals are staying up later than ever. It is happening at a progressively younger age and we are being overly stimulated by media, technology and video gaming.

It is important to be the master of technology. Take un-needed technology, like the TV and phone, out of your bedroom. Be sure the glow from the radio or clock isn’t too bright to sleep in. Recent research on lighting, including streetlights, indicates blue light disrupts the melatonin sleep cycle. A simple solution to bright tech is to put something in front of the LED bulb.

Signs of Sleep Deprivation:

·      Stress--causes you to crack and fold, you have difficulty solving problems you are faced with. You feel helpless.
·      Memory Loss--can't recollect anything specifically in your mind, memories are vague, "hazy."
·      Bad Concentration—inability to focus on anything you're doing, poor focus and mental concentration, reaction time is significantly slowed. This serious effect impacts EVERYTHING you do.
·      Appetite Changes--you will be super hungry all the time or have no appetite at all. Prolonged sleep deprivation may cause weight gain, or loss.
·      Irritability---a growing anger and near hatred of everything and everyone.
·      Tiredness--- characterized by feeling that any task is overwhelming.
·      Feeling, or being socially inept—you cannot communicate effectively, and the things people say are incomprehensible to you.

The body recharges and repairs itself during sleep. Vigorous and demanding exercise requires better sleep for the body to recharge to its optimum. In the sleep deprived, the body cannot recharge itself and if the routine is continued exhaustion sets in. We need to understand the cumulative effect of sleep deprivation has serious consequences. These include depressed vital signs (blood pressure, heart rate, and body temperature), impairment of thinking and memory, an inability to think critically or creativity, hallucinations, and even death.

Melatonin is the key sleep hormone and is produced in the brain. Sunset triggers heightened melatonin secretion from the pineal gland. When our biological clock, known as circadian rhythm, is disrupted, sleeping can be difficult. These melatonin levels normally decrease with sunrise regulating periods of sleep and wakefulness. As reported in the November 2004 issue of the journal Sleep Medicine, melatonin supplements may be of use for certain insomniacs and to regulate circadian rhythm sleep disorders. Research has shown melatonin supplements taken at the same time each night improve sleep.

Life-style Steps to Improve Sleep Quality

·      Avoid alcohol, tobacco and especially caffeine. Eat light meals more often through the day. Do not eat within two or three hours of going to bed. Fatty and oily foods, sweets, ice-creams are stimulating and difficult to digest.

·      Try to go to bed at an early hour so that you spend more time in the relaxed state. According to Ayurveda and research, it is easiest to fall asleep and the quality of rest is deeper if we go to bed before 10 p.m.

·      Avoid stimulating activities like talking intense conversation, or watching an exciting movie after 10 PM or you may find sleep eludes you, or you wake feeling depleted.

·      Make sure that the room is perfectly dark. Reduce noise levels to the absolute minimum. These changes can get you more rest, and can help alleviate the effects of insomnia.

·      Many sleep problems are due to the inability of the mind to relax and be in the moment. Meditate for 15 minutes or so before going to bed and your mind will be quieter and the more restful your sleep.

·      Go to bed only when you feel drowsy as this short circuits anxiety about the arrival of sleep, which is a major cause of sleeplessness. If you don’t fall asleep within half an hour of going to sleep, wake up and meditate or read a book. If you awake in the middle of the night don’t fret or fight to get sleep.

·      If you worrying about sleep onset listen to calm, soothing music, or some audio books to distract yourself. Insomniacs find it hard to fall asleep is because they think too much about falling asleep.

·      Drink lots of water through the day, to flush out toxins and help support the kidneys. But minimize water intake after 6 pm to avoid disturbing sleep for urination.

·      Oil massage is an effective way to de-stress and relax. The oil massage encourages toxin elimination, lubricate joints, improve complexion, relieve fatigue and increase energy levels. Recommended oils: sesame oil (some find it a bit hot), coconut oil, or my favorite Egyptian Oil. Warm the oil bottle a bit in a wide bottom dish of water to heat the oil. Massage the oil all over your body with circular motion over flat areas like abdomen and chest and straight strokes for arms and legs. Rest for at least 30 minutes then have a warm shower.

·      Regular daily exercise increases alertness and raises body temperature. Stop exercise five to six hours before bedtime makes the body temperature drop which facilitates faster sleep. Exercising close to bedtime is stimulating and disrupts sleep patterns. Exercises that because exhaustion should be avoided.

Quick Fixes for Insomnia

·      Ensure the bedroom you sleep is peaceful with adequate ventilation.
·      Keep your bedtime and wake time consistent from day to day, including on weekends.
·      Do a small prayer before retiring to reduce stress.
·      Two drops of sesame/castor oil applied to foot will make you sleepy.
·      Soak your feet in warm water for ten minutes before retiring.
·      Take deep breaths--breathe in, imagine happiness and positive energy, and breath out exhaling stress, worries and tension.
·      Get out of bed when you're not sleeping.
·      Avoid trying to sleep--read or watch television in another room until you become very drowsy, then go to bed to sleep.
·      Use your bed and bedroom only for sleeping or sex.
·      Create a relaxing bedtime ritual, such as reading, soft music, breathing exercises, yoga or prayer.
·      Avoid or limit naps--limit a nap to no more than 30 minutes and don't nap after 3 p.m.
·      Some people like subtle background noise, such as a running fan, to help drown out other noises.                       
·      Check your medications---some contribute to insomnia (also check the labels of over-the-counter products to see if they contain caffeine or other stimulants, such as pseudoephedrine)
·      If you take a pain reliever take enough to control your pain while you sleep
·      Set your alarm so you know when to get up but then hide the clock, wristwatch and cell phone in your bedroom--you'll sleep better.
·      Alternative Tactics (check with your health care professional)
·      Melatonin. The body’s sleep cycle naturally produces melatonin, releasing it into the bloodstream starting at dusk, increasing through night, and tapering off toward morning. Older adults seem to benefit more from melatonin. Considered safe to use for a few weeks. The dosage for over the counter Melatonin is usually between 0.3 and 5 milligrams (mg) a day usually taken 1-2 hours before bedtime.
·      A study has shown that melatonin treatment significantly reduces the time it takes to fall asleep, increase sleep efficiency, and increase the overall duration of sleep.
·      Valerian. A dietary supplement sold as a sleep aid has a mildly sedating effect. The recommended dose of valerian is 400 to 900 mg daily with an extract containing 0.4 to 0.6 percent of valerenic acid.
·      Acupuncture. A practitioner places numerous thin needles in your skin at specific points on your body’s energy meridians.
·      L-Tryptophan is an amino acid naturally occurs in the body. It contributes to the manufacture of serotonin, (a neurotransmitter) in the brain, which promotes better sleep. Tryptophan is converted into serotonin, a natural sleep-inducing chemical, which enhances the brain's melatonin production.
·      Magnesium deficiency is responsible for nervousness that prevents sleep, and can cause leg cramps. Magnesium is essential for normal sleep and has a calming effect on the brain. Magnesium is taken 1 hour before bedtime.
·      Inositol enhances REM sleep and helps with the body’s ability to fall back asleep after waking in the night.

Acknowledging your attitude toward sleep and your own sleep-deprived state is an essential first step to a healthy lifestyle. “I’ll sleep when I’m dead.” Is this your motto? Seemingly, culture has convinced us to deny the very real human need for sleep. Students stay up late studying or doing projects. Workers skip sleep to meet deadlines. Medical practitioners live with shift work schedules, and 24 hour workdays. “Partygoers” develop poor sleep habits and risk serious problems from sleep deprivation. New parents must live the baby’s sleep schedule.

Children have different sleep needs than adults and react differently to sleep deprivation. Sleep deprived children display hyperactivity and may develop attention deficit disorder. They may display emotional outbursts such as aggression, crying, and inappropriate behaviors and school behavior, while achievement may suffer. Although a child might need a simple night-light, avoid lighted pillows or other lighted, musical toys that might interrupt sleep.


http://www.effectsofsleepdeprivation.net/symptoms-of-sleep-deprivation/

http://www.sleeptracks.org/symptoms-of-sleep-deprivation.html




http://www.relishinglife.com/6/natural-ways-to-treat-insomnia/
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https://www.psychologytoday.com/articles/200404/biorhythms-get-in-step