Beautiful. Medicine.

Q: Dr. Fine, which Aphrodisiacs do you, recommend if any?

A: Ever since the love goddess Aphrodite emerged from the sea we have sort out remedies to fuel desire. There is a vast aphrodisiac food list from almonds to wine. These foods and spices some of which are sexually suggestive have strong effects grounded in ritual, folklore, prophecy and culture. There is little scientific evidence to support these claims. For example dark chocolate does contain phenylethylamine and there is a scientific theory to suggest that phenylethylamine when released in the brain may be involved in sexual attraction and arousal but it is unlikely that any significant amounts would reach the brain when ingested orally.

The Aphrodisiac that I do recommend, a perfect paring for Valentines Day, that will enhance passion is genuine tender loving care and unconditional love.

Sex is a creative energy so put some thought into an intimate celebration. Seek inspiration from good memories and a commitment to the future. You may even wish to renew your vows and if your partner loves chocolate, by all means.

Dr Fine’s Recommendation for Valentines Day is to make  “A Valentines Day Resolution” instead of a New Years Resolution.

The New Year has traditionally been the signal for us to evaluate the past year and make plans for the next. As we reassess the disappointments of the past, the excitement of new possibilities for the future usually leads us to make our “New Years Resolutions”.

We typically vow to start our diets and loose weight. We absolutely will adhere to our exercise program and schedule. This year we will plan for the future by managing our finances with more care and we will address any career concerns. Spending quality time with our family will be a priority and of course we will enhance our spiritual enlightenment.

Perhaps this year on Valentines Day, we could embrace a more eclectic philosophy and decide to embrace our sexuality. After all, besides the obvious, sexual energy dramatically optimizes our body’s functions by strengthening our immune system. Sex relieves mild pain. It releases us from physical and mental tension, stress and anxiety. It helps promote good sleep. Sex elevates mood, increases self-esteem, fosters intimacy and improves relationships. Sex has long been the force that excites our bodies and touches our souls. It connects us mentally, physically, emotionally and spiritually. Maybe this will be the year, on “Valentines Day” as a gift to ourselves and our loved one, we will resolve to make sex a priority, get in touch with our sexuality and not over look our sexual health.

My services differ from most psychotherapists, as I am also a trained and licensed ARNP. The foundation of my education is grounded in the medical model. This allows me not only the ability to prescribe medications and laboratory tests, it also gives me a unique and holistic perspective, which then in turn gives me an advantage in my evaluation of, and plan for my patients.

Dear Louise,

Stress is a term we use to describe the wear and tear our bodies endure in reaction to everyday emotional tension and pressure. How we internalize and respond to these pressures: life style changes, illness, financial burdens, rush hour traffic, etc; is the key to avoiding the devastating effects of stress.Stress affects everyone physically as well as emotionally. The American Institute of Stress reports that 90% of all health problems can be related to stress. Enduring long term stress can lead to and agitate health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, depression, sleep disorders, weight gain, hormonal imbalance, sexual difficulties and will accelerate aging.

Learning how stress affects you, developing strategies to best handle your stress will make it easier to find solutions.

Dear Josh,

The secret to permanent weight loss is always the result of a lifestyle alteration. Diets are a short-term strategy that can help you boost or accelerate the process. But can you comply long indefinitely is the million dollar question.

Are you determined to meet your weight loss goals this year? If healthier habits and weight loss are among your new year’s resolutions, give yourself a pat on the back for scheduling an appointment with a member of The MIAMI Institute’s weight management team and making health your top priority in 2010.

Here are a few tips to help you keep on track with your weight loss resolution.

Remove Temptation!

Remove all bad foods from your refrigerator and pantry. Replace them with healthy, nutrient dense food, such as:

• Lean protein (chicken breast, turkey breast, fish, egg whites)
• Fresh fruits (oranges, apples, grapes, strawberries)
• Raw vegetables (mushrooms, broccoli, squash, green beans, red peppers)
• Healthy snack foods (non-fat cottage cheese, sugar free jello, protein bar)
• Bottled Water

Marriage Wisdom Through the Ages

Be 100% committed to your marriage and family. Intend to be a role model for your children and teach them through example how to love honor and respect.

Be loyal, respectful, protective and supportive of your spouse. It fosters commitment and prevents feelings of rejection.

Value yourself! You cannot expect your spouse to “give you happiness or a sense of validation”. Have your own interests and develop your talents. Never let yourself go. Look your best as often as possible.

Always be on the same team, Camaraderie creates chemistry.

Communicate, compromise and always act with good intensions.  Confidence will give rise to a feeling of security.

Agree to disagree. Differences will present themselves. Conflicts should be negotiated. There does not need to be a winner or loser. Learn how to forgive and always move forward.

Preserve self-esteem by not being judgmental or abusive. Only destructive behavior can result from feelings of fear and rejection. Never embarrasses your spouse in public.

Pick you battles – acquire perspective. Being grounded in reality will protect you from falling prey to unrealistic expectations, anger and resentments.

Strive to make your spouse proud of you and your family, your home and the life you have built together. Make a date to update the family photo album and discuss each picture.

Share common interests and value quality time. Create opportunities to have fun and make each other laugh. Watch less television dance more.

Be devoted to having unhurried meals together, seek to make them a celebration, this is your time to connect: decorate, evaluate, plan and bond.

Show signs of affection. Kiss hello and good-bye. Hold hands. Never let a day go bye without a really good heartfelt hug. Flirt as often as possible. Schedule date nights, sex and plan surprises. Never use sex as a weapon.

Be Indispensable. Little things mean a lot.

As often as possible foster intimacy it’s the gift that keeps on giving.
Rhonda Fine PhD, ARNP
Diplomate of The American Academy of Clinical Sexologists
Board Certificated Clinical Sexologist
Psychotherapy, Wellness and Regenerative Medicine
(303) 624- 0009
DrFine@miami-institute.com