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All Things Charleston: Breast Reconstruction Recovery Hot Spots

March 1, 2016 by

 

Women choose breast reconstruction to empower themselves and gain a new lease on life. At The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction, we applaud all our patients for their courage, strength, and positive attitudes…

And for being a constant source of inspiration to our team.

Our staff is here to help these women in every way possible, including post-mastectomy care and reconstruction recovery. We don’t simply offer suggestions on how to recover after a procedure—we also help you celebrate your new life!

For that reason, we’ve compiled a list of the most relaxing, rejuvenating, and fun places in Charleston, South Carolina—destinations that allow you to unwind, think, and get ready to tackle the world after surgery.

The Inn at Middleton Place

After your procedure, you can gain clarity and greater appreciation of life at the Inn at Middleton Place. This beautiful resort sits on the bluffs of the Ashley River, a secluded location surrounded by towering pines and oaks.

The location is one big plus, and the resort itself is also a sight to behold. The winner of the American Institute of Architects highest award, The Inn features 55 rooms that come with 150-gallon tubs, floor-to-ceiling windows, and gorgeous gift baskets that will be waiting for you.

Visit this website for photos and additional information.

The Wentworth Spa Experience

There’s nothing quite as therapeutic as a massage. Not to mention, women who are recovering from breast reconstruction deserve a little TLC. The Wentworth Spa Experience is the ideal place to get your much-needed R&R after surgery.

In addition to massage treatments, you’ll also…

  • Marvel at your beautiful Mansion Room, which includes a king-sized bed.
  • Enjoy a full a la carte breakfast.
  • Take part in an evening wine and hors d’oeuvres reception.
  • Get access to free on-site parking.
  • Indulge in a bottle of champagne at turndown.

See their website for photos and additional information.

Wild Dunes Spa Services and Wellness

As it accurately states on their website, “Sand & Sea Salon with Spa Services at Wild Dunes Resort can have you looking great and feeling even better.” The feeling even better part is what we’re concerned with the most.

From manicures and pedicures to massages, facials, and body scrubs—any service in this relaxed island ambiance will help in your breast reconstruction recovery.

Speaking of massages, here are a few of our favorites:

The Honey Magnolia Massage – This is a light-to-medium pressure massage that smells as good as it feels with a combination of southern magnolia flowers and honey.

Warm Seashell Massage – For this massage, smooth shells are warmed up and used to aid in relaxing your muscles and releasing all your stress.

Rainbow Row Massage – This is Swedish massage that uses a hydrating combination of honey and “Rainbow Road” shea butter. (If you’ve never used this moisturizer, rest assured that it is divine.)

Click here for photos and more information.

King’s Courtyard Inn

From large, breathtaking windows and beautifully designed oriental rugs to wide plank floors, cancer survivors and those in breast reconstruction recovery will enjoy the care and company of the King’s Courtyard Inn.

Stationed in the bustling heart of Charleston’s Historic District, this resort embodies old-world charm with lush courtyards and beautifully restored rooms from 1853.

Click here for photos and more information.

Have a favorite recovery-friendly location in Charleston?

Share the wealth in the comments below.

Filed Under: All Things Charleston, Health and Wellness Tagged With: , ,

Simple Charleston-Area Recipes

February 23, 2016 by

 

Lowcountry cuisine is one of the many things that make Charleston, South Carolina, one of the most wonderful places to live (and visit).

If you’re new to cooking Lowcountry food (or to cooking in general) and have wanted to try it out, you’re in luck! The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction has compiled a list of easy and authentic Low Country recipes that cooks of any skill level will be comfortable taking on.

Enjoy!

Shrimp and Grits

Shrimp and Grits is a Lowcountry staple that is much easier than you might think to pull off. This recipe calls for some simple ingredients that you can easily find at the grocery store, and takes just 30 minutes of prep time. Simply cook your grits, fry your bacon and sausage, then cook the vegetables and shrimp together. Serve on a bed of cheesy grits, and enjoy.

Red Rice

Red Rice is another delicious Lowcountry dish that requires very little culinary expertise to make, and all of the ingredients are probably already in your pantry. To make Red Rice, boil 2 cups of long grain white rice until tender, then cook your bacon in a skillet until browned. Cook your onion and tomatoes in the bacon drippings, and mix in the rice. That’s it!

Seafood Muddle

The Seafood Muddle is a hearty seafood stew that calls for clams, fish, shrimp, and mussels cooked together with potatoes and other vegetables in a fish stock broth. This is a must-try for seafood lovers! The recipe should only take 15 minutes to prep, but you’ll want to make sure that your shellfish are properly scrubbed, shelled, and de-veined ahead of time.

Frogmore Stew

Frogmore Stew is a traditional Lowcountry seafood boil that is perfect for serving at large gatherings. The amount of ingredients can easily be adjusted for more or fewer servings. So get some of your favorite people together, and get your largest pot ready. To make Frogmore Stew, boil 5 quarts of water with some Old Bay seasoning, and add potatoes, sausage, corn, and shrimp. Simply boil everything together, and drain before serving. Add more seasoning and cocktail sauce to taste.

African Peanut Soup

This recipe combines some very unlikely ingredients, including peanut butter, rice, and chili powder, into an irresistible dish that will have you coming back for seconds. It requires little prep time, and surprisingly little effort—if you can chop vegetables, you can make this recipe!

We hope you have fun in the kitchen cooking up one of these delicious Lowcountry recipes. Do you have a classic Charleston area staple that we missed? Share it with us in the comments!

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Post-Surgical Animal Therapy

February 16, 2016 by

 

Most people love playing with pets, but did you know that spending time with animals could have therapeutic benefits as well? For post-surgical patients, animal-assisted therapy can offer benefits ranging from lowered blood pressure to reduced anxiety.

We here at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction think that animal-assisted therapy can be a beneficial part of our patients’ holistic care regimens. Anything that reduces stress and promotes wellness sounds like a good idea to us!

So exactly what is animal-assisted therapy?

According to the Mayo Clinic, pet therapy “uses dogs or other animals to help people recover from or better cope with health problems.” Patients spend some quality time with trained animals, and are encouraged to pet or play with the animals and interact with their handlers. Animal-assisted therapy is recommended for patients receiving chemotherapy or physical therapy, and also for patients dealing with mental health issues.

Some benefits of animal therapy include:

  • Decreased feelings of depression and loneliness
  • Decreased stress levels
  • Decreased blood pressure
  • Lowered heart rate

Not to mention, anecdotal evidence strongly suggests that interacting and playing with animals promotes general wellbeing in patients. It’s easy to see how a friendly, furry face could help melt some cares away just by being a comforting and affectionate friend to lean on in tough times.

Animal-Assisted Therapy Resources in Charleston, SC

Pet therapy usually takes place in hospital or group meet-and-greet settings. If you are interested in enlisting the help of a furry friend to help you on your way to recovery, there are several resources for animal-assisted therapy in the Charleston, South Carolina, area.

  • Love on a Leash is an organization of therapy dogs and workers with chapters across the U.S. Contact your local chapter to see if they will be visiting a facility near you soon.
  • Paws 2 Care is a volunteer organization that brings therapy dogs to locations throughout South Carolina.
  • Pet Therapy in Columbia is a resource that connects people to therapy teams in the Columbia, SC area.
  • Here is a list of several doctors and programs that offer animal-assisted therapy in South Carolina.
  • SC Dogs is a volunteer organization that regularly visits facilities such as rehab centers and mental health programs.

Even if you don’t take part in an organized therapy session, you might find the same positive health benefits by spending more time with animals in your daily life.

Whether you adopt a new best friend, start spending more quality time with your dog at the park, or volunteer at a local pet shelter, you might find that these activities have a positive impact on your moods.

If you feel as if you could benefit from animal-assisted therapy, why not give it a try?

Contact your doctor or insurance provider to see if there are any other animal-assisted therapy services available in your area! And let us know in the comments how your furry friend has helped you heal.

Filed Under: All Things Charleston, Health and Wellness Tagged With: , , , ,

All Things Charleston: The Perfect Valentine’s Day Celebration

February 9, 2016 by

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It’s that time of year again…whether you love it or hate it, Valentine’s Day is fast approaching.

For you single ladies, we here at The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction have the perfect V-Day pick-me-up for you. It’s called Galentine’s Day, and it’s all about celebrating love and friendship with your closest gal pals.

For couples, we’ve selected some of Charleston’s most romantic restaurants for you to wine and dine with your sweetie.

Whether you surprise your special someone with a reservation at one of the best restaurants in Charleston, or you spend the afternoon at the spa with the girls, we’ve got you covered.

Here are our top romantic restaurant picks that are sure to make the day special:

Charleston Grill

Charleston Grill is the perfect setting for a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner with your special someone. From the luxurious jazz lounge atmosphere and live music to the delectable food, everything about Charleston Grill is indulgent. Their ever-changing menu is divided into four distinct sections, so whether you’re in the mood for southern comfort, exotic flavors, simple classics, or something more decadent, this unique restaurant has a little bit of everything.

Peninsula Grill

Located in Charleston’s Historic District, Peninsula Grill proudly emanates the charm and class of an era gone by. Every detail, from the wrought iron gate that borders the restaurant to the candlelit tables and stunning courtyard, exudes elegance and sophistication. And of course, the food is unforgettable as well. It is prepared under the direction of Executive Chef Graham Dailey, who has studied at Le Cordon Bleu in Paris, and has been featured on several national news programs. Having dinner here with your favorite person sounds like the perfect Valentine’s Day plan.

Fulton Five

Fulton Five is a charming Italian bistro that has been voted “Most Romantic Restaurant” from 1998-2014 by the Charleston City Paper. With its ivy-covered storefront, candlelit tables, and an impressive selection of fine wines and Italian cuisine, it’s easy to see why. If you’re struggling to come up with Valentine’s Day date ideas, you can’t go wrong with a reservation for Fulton Five.

Circa 1886 Restaurant

Circa 1886 is the place to go for a modern spin on Southern classics. Using whole grains, seasonal ingredients, and less butter and cream than you’d expect, Circa 1886s Chef Marc Collins has created a unique menu that has become a staple of the Charleston dining scene. Circa 1886 has been rated among the best in both local and national publications, including USA Today, Forbes, and Country Living. It will make the perfect location for your Valentine’s Day date or girls’ night out.

For the single ladies looking to start a new Galentine’s Day tradition, spend the day with your closest girlfriends at one of these locations in Charleston:

Cooking Classes at Charleston Cooks

Brush up on your culinary skills at Charleston Cooks! More than just a kitchen retail store, Charleston Cooks offers a range of cooking classes that will teach you how to make a whole meal from scratch. Classes cover everything from vegetarian cuisine to “Charleston Sunday Brunch,” so check their class schedule and sign your crew up today!

Afternoon Tea at Charleston Place

Get your best friends together and make a reservation for Afternoon Tea at Charleston Place. During Afternoon tea, you will be treated to an assortment of scones, cakes, crumpets, and sandwiches, and of course, a delicious pot of freshly brewed tea. This would make a delightfully unexpected location for your Galentine’s Day celebration.

Drinks at The Gin Joint

The Gin Joint is the perfect Galentine’s Day location for those of you with an adventurous palate. The Gin Joint specializes in handcrafted cocktails and upscale bar food. You can choose from a tempting selection of signature drinks, or if you’re feeling daring, pick two adjectives from the list on the menu (like sweet and refreshing) and let the bartender surprise you. Stop by for Cocktail Hour Monday through Thursday from 5-7, or make a reservation for a great Girl’s Night Out.

Have a Spa Day

Before you go out on the town, spend the day pampering yourself at the spa—you deserve it! Treat yourself to a deep tissue massage at The Spa at Charleston Place, a cocoa shea butter wrap at Urban Nirvana, or a cleansing facial at Stella Nova. There’s nothing better than looking and feeling your best, so take the time out for some serious me time!

Any one of these amazing locations would be a great place to spend this Valentine’s Day or Galentine’s Day.

The most important part is whom you spend it with. Make your reservations today, and ensure that this V-Day will be a memorable one.

Filed Under: All Things Charleston, Health and Wellness Tagged With: , , , ,

5 Ways to Stay on Track with Your New Year’s Resolution

February 2, 2016 by

The start of a New Year is a great time to think about what you would like to accomplish over the next 12 months.

But often, we make New Year’s Resolutions with the best of intentions, but forget about them by mid-February.

This year, let’s break that pattern! Follow these 5 steps to keep your New Year’s Resolutions, and you’ll be well on your way to a new you.

Remember Why You Set the Goal

A good place to start is remembering why you set your goal in the first place. If you resolved to get into better shape, for example, try writing down exactly why. Maybe you want to be able to get around more easily, or maybe you want to be ready to take that hiking trip this summer. Focusing on the reasons behind your goal is a great source of motivation. For a daily reminder, try keeping sticky notes around the house, or set an inspirational photo as the background on your phone.

Assess Where You Could Improve

After setting your goals, identify ways in which you can improve. Where have you stumbled or given up in the past? What modifications can you make to your schedule or lifestyle that will make your journey easier? When you come up with your list, take proactive steps to make the needed changes. Vary your workout routine so you don’t get bored. Cut back on your unnecessary spending. Set aside one day a week to catch up with friends. If you are conscious about making improvements every day, you’ll reach your goal in no time.

Define What Makes You Want to Quit

When making life changes, it’s normal to feel like quitting from time to time. Don’t ignore these feelings—identify what’s causing them. Are you working yourself too hard? Are you completely depriving yourself of something you enjoy? Are you trying to achieve your goals in an unhealthy way? Make adjustments to your plan when necessary, and reward your progress. Don’t be discouraged by setbacks!

Identify the Stressors That Distract You

Living a busy life and juggling work and family schedules can make it hard to always stay on track of your goals. Pinpoint the major stressors that prevent you from keeping your resolutions. Then, find realistic ways of dealing with them. This can be as easy as finding a way to unwind during your lunch break, or as drastic as cutting back on the responsibilities you choose to take on. Every small change makes it easier to focus on bettering yourself.

Accept That You’re Not Perfect

Finally, you have to accept the fact that you’re not perfect… and that’s OK! Making positive changes and sticking to your goals takes time and dedication. Don’t be too hard on yourself when you fall short. Congratulate yourself for making the effort, and keep on trying.

This New Year, add one more resolution to your list: to actually follow through with your New Year’s Resolutions for 2016. Just focus on why you set your goals, find ways to improve, deal with distractions, and forgive yourself when you fall short. With a little patience, you will be able to achieve your goals.

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How to Have a Sunny Mindset in the Dead of Winter

January 26, 2016 by

girl smiling

With the excitement of the holiday season behind us and a few chilly months ahead of us, it’s difficult to maintain a sunny mindset in the dead of winter.

However, letting the winter doldrums get the best of your spirits affects your health, relationships with loved ones, and your overall quality of life.

It’s important to keep a positive mindset, even when it takes a little more concerted effort, so that you’re able to appreciate all of the great things this time of year offers—such as new beginnings and changes the New Year brings, and returning to a stable routine.

Start your day off with a positive mantra

Getting out of bed when your blankets are so warm and the air is so chilly can be tricky this time of year—however, your mood in the morning affects your attitude the rest of the day, so it’s important to start off on the right foot.

One idea is to have a positive mantra or quote that you say to yourself every morning before getting out of bed or one written on your bathroom mirror that provides a little extra motivation and positive thinking into your mind.

Make a conscious effort to smile

According to Psychology Today, the act of smiling physically affects your brain to increase your happiness. How awesome is that?!

So even if you’re not totally feeling your best, remember to smile. Not only will it impact your mood, but it will spread the positivity to others as well.

Even though it’s chilly, go outdoors

We’re blessed to live in an area where it never gets too cold. Even if it’s a little frigid, bundle up and enjoy some fresh air. Just being outdoors can lift your spirit and provide some extra energy.

Don’t hibernate

Staying cooped up, binge-watching Netflix is okay every now and then, but eventually you’ll start losing your desire to have human interaction…and that’s not beneficial to your overall wellbeing.

Be sure to socialize! Although it’s tempting to stay in, force yourself to meet up with friends—or at least invite them over.

Break a sweat

It’s no secret exercise releases endorphins—your brain’s feel-good neurotransmitters. So if you start to feel sluggish or down in the dumps, put on those tennis shoes and break a sweat!

Check out this blog for fun ways to exercise!

Spread your positivity! Leave encouraging notes and inspirational quotes below!

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[Video] Natural Breast Reconstruction Q & A

January 19, 2016 by

Dr. Richard Kline answers Cheryl Harleston’s questions regarding breast reconstruction.

What this video covers:

  • The different breast reconstruction options available for women.
  • What to expect when undergoing a natural breast reconstruction procedure.
  • Why natural breast reconstruction may be the best procedure for some patients.

To find out more about natural breast reconstruction and whether you or a loved one might be a good fit for this procedure, please watch this informational video.

Filed Under: Breast Cancer Awareness, Health and Wellness Tagged With: , , , ,

Tricks to Keep Your Kids Busy in the Winter

January 12, 2016 by

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With the chilly weather settling in, ideas to keep your kids busy in the winter can start to run thin.

Being cooped up with nothing to do can lead to some serious child meltdowns—which leads to parent meltdowns.

That’s why it’s important to provide activities and plans to keep kids occupied and in good spirits.

In this post, we’re sharing 5 tricks to keep your kids busy this winter.

Build an indoor fort

Building an indoor fort with blankets, pillows, and couches is a classic indoor activity that kids LOVE! Of course, it adds a little extra cleanup to the day, but the hours of fun (and distraction) are well worth the mess!

Bundle up and enjoy the outdoors

Sure the weather is a little chilly, but we’re lucky to live in an area with a relatively moderate temperature range. When cabin fever sets in, sometimes some fresh air is just what your kids need.

Put on some boots and a warm jacket, and take the kids for a walk on the beach!

Go ice-skating

Bring the kids to an indoor ice-skating rink, such as the Carolina Ice Palace. It’s an inexpensive activity that allows your kids to get plenty of exercise—while having a blast!

Make a movie night

Set up an ice cream sundae bar or pop some popcorn, cuddle up on blankets and pillows, and enjoy a family-favorite movie. Adding a little extra fun to a typical night will help put the kids in a more excited mood.

The Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry

Going to a museum, such as the Children’s Museum of the Lowcounty, serves as both a fun activity and an educational experience for children. With so many engaging exhibits, this is a trip your kids will absolutely love.

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New Year’s Resolutions That Are FUN

December 29, 2015 by

passport

New Year’s Resolutions don’t always have to be a drag.

You shouldn’t enter the New Year full of dread and anxiety—it should be full of hope and excitement.

If vowing to lose weight this year is just not getting you excited for 2016, it’s time to rethink resolutions.

Why not make a New Year’s resolution that is fun?

If you’re looking to shake up your resolutions, we thought up some awesome (and attainable) ideas.

Plan a weekly date night

Want to keep that spark alive with your significant other for 2016? Make it a priority to have a date night each week. Sound expensive? It doesn’t have to be!

Some date nights can be simply putting your phones away, turning off the TV, lighting some candles, and enjoying dinner together at home.

Enjoy time with friends

With all the commitments of everyday life, it’s easy to let friendships take a back seat. However, friends are such important relationships to maintain—they help you relax and laugh and support you in tough times. Suggest to your friends that your group start a monthly girls’ night!

Plan an outdoor activity each week

Trying to disconnect more from technology this year? Plan an outdoor activity once a week. Fresh air and enjoying the outdoors can be incredibly beneficial for our health. Here are some ideas:

  • Hiking
  • Neighborhood walk
  • Outdoor picnic
  • Bike ride
  • Bonfire
  • Mini golf
  • Visiting local parks

Play with your kids

As adults, sometimes we forget just how much fun participating in kid-centric activities actually is! Get lost in your kid’s imaginary world, don’t worry about being messy during craft time, and climb in that tunnel slide with him or her!

Make a froyo bar

Make a homemade “froyo” bar once a week! Decide on a certain night of the week, and make it a tradition. Set up a different frozen yogurt flavors and toppings. What a yummy resolution!

Create a movie bucket list

Create a movie bucket list of all the films you’ve been meaning to watch. Better yet—get your friends involved and create the ultimate movie list.

Plan a trip

Make an effort to plan that trip you’ve always wanted to go on. Start saving, buy travel books, book your tickets, and make hotel reservations. Bon voyage!

What’s your New Year’s resolution? Share on our Facebook page!

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A Big Thank-You from The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction

November 24, 2015 by

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Before we all head out to enjoy delicious turkey and spend time with family and friends, we want to take a moment to say thank you to our amazing readers and patients.

You inspire us each and every day, and we are so incredibly grateful to be able to do what we do. Thank you all.

The Center for Natural Breast Reconstruction team wishes everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving!

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