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Acupuncture and allergies Driven + SWS Tampa Acupuncture

Acupuncture and Allergies

Written by Luis Echeverry on . Posted in Lifestyle.

Anyone with moderate to severe allergies living in the Tampa Bay area is no stranger to the annoying symptoms of allergy season such as a running nose, sneezing, and itchy watery eyes.

Every year, millions of dollars are spent on medications and allergy shots for the treatment of seasonal allergies that often offer little relief. Not to mention, in an effort to live a cleaner lifestyle, you’re probably sick and tired of taking these medications! At Driven Fit +SWS, we believe in using a holistic approach to healing, and this goes for the treatment of allergies as well. One of our favorites is acupuncture – a growing trend in the treatment of allergies.

Really Acupuncture…For Allergies

A recent study by the American Journal of Rhinology and Allergy found that acupuncture is an effective treatment of allergic rhinitis (hay fever).

The studies confirmed that acupuncture significantly lowers the antibody known as immunoglobulin E (IgE) – the antibody associated with allergies and hypersensitivities. Not only was the IgE antibody lowered but so too were the symptoms associated with allergies.

Additionally, the participants overall reported a better quality of life.

Acupuncture to Treat Allergies

When using acupuncture to treat allergies, practitioners focus heavily on something called Wei Qi – eastern medicine’s version of the “immune system”. This protects the body against foreign materials that can lead to inflammation and allergies.

People with lower immunity or Wei Qi are more susceptible to allergies and frequent colds. Acupuncture helps boost the Wei Qi making it more difficult for allergens to attack the body.

In terms of treating allergies with acupuncture, it is necessary to look at the patient as a whole and not just the symptoms – a common practice in all forms of treatment at Driven Fit + SWS. Our acupuncturist will focus on other variables that may contribute to allergies such as dietary habits. Foods such as sugar and dairy are often associated with a lower immune system or Wei Qi. Eliminating or drastically reducing these items will allow the body to recover more quickly, making allergy attacks easier to resolve.

Try Acupuncture

At Driven Fit + SWS, we will create a customized plan to treat your allergy symptoms that will include a combination of acupuncture treatments, herbs, and dietary changes. If you struggle with allergies and are interested in acupuncture as a form of treatment, please call or text our South Tampa wellness studio at (813) 440-3016. See how you can live a life with fewer allergy issues!

Healthy During Pollen Season Tampa Personal Trainer

Tips to Stay Fit and Healthy During Pollen Season

Written by Luis Echeverry on . Posted in Lifestyle.

Pollen season in Tampa….ugh. It’s the only downside to our beautiful spring weather and keeps a lot of us indoors when we should be living it up outside – at least until the heat wave hits! And while we may not do our normal outdoor cardio during pollen season, allergies shouldn’t stop us from being physically fit and healthy. No freaking way! Fortunately, there are different ways to keep yourself in shape even in the worst of allergy season. Let’s go…

Exercising Outdoors:

It is possible to continue outdoor exercise during allergy season – you know we love our newly tricked out SkyDeck. But it’s important to take steps to decrease symptoms before, during, and after your workout.

If you suffer from allergies, it may be a good idea to check the pollen count before you work out outside. This can typically be found on the local news or you can bookmark the National Allergy Bureau website. If the count is high, choose a less aerobic exercise, such as weight lifting or yoga. This will help decrease the amount of pollen you inhale as harder breathing is required for aerobic exercise.

If a more intense outdoor workout is a must, consider wearing some sort of mask like a bandana. Goggles will also help reduce eye irritants. You might look a little funny, but it’ll help! Of course, you may want to talk to a doctor about allergy treatments for common allergens.

Post workout in order to decrease allergens inside your place, immediately wash your hair and clothes after your outdoor workout.

Indoor Exercise:

We want you to stay active during pollen season. But when pollen counts are just too high, you’ve got to take the workout indoors (preferably at our South Tampa fitness studio). To help keep allergies from bugging you, exercise on a mat instead of carpeting to limit allergens from being stirred up.

Your workout time indoors is a perfect time for strength training in between aerobic days. This may include weight lifting, yoga, or a HIIT style workout – all of which can easily be done at home or the gym.

Now is the perfect time to become a new member at Driven Fit + Sponaugle Wellness Studio! Whether you’re interested in personal training, yoga classes, or a full body workout class, we offer several options for moderate to intense workouts. Click here for more info.

While allergy season may present roadblocks for staying fit, it’s important to maintain an exercise routine – maybe just mix it up a little. In general, aim for at least 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week and incorporate strength training twice a week. Of course, our clients get customized fitness programs that include massage and other restorative therapies. For information on our top South Tampa wellness studio, call or text (813) 440-3016.

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Jessica Bull Testimonial

Jessica Bull


The physical and mental aspects, truly sets your coaching programs apart.

As runner now aiming for personal bests, Luis’s adaptive coaching has been a game-changer. The custom training plan, precision in pacing strategies, and innovative techniques have propelled me to new heights in my races. 

I've shattered performance plateaus, and each race feels like a triumph. 

What was not even a dream become a reality when 

“I qualified for Boston” showing me anything is possible ????????

Beyond the individual successes, the sense of community fostered by your coaching team is remarkable. 

The support, encouragement, and camaraderie among fellow runners create an inspiring environment that fuels everyone's journey.

Thank you, Luis, and the entire run adaptive coaching team, for the dedication, expertise, and unwavering support. Joining your Run coaching programs has truly been the best decision I've made for my running journey. I'm not just achieving my goals; I'm surpassing them with each stride.

Gratefully,

Jessica

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Andrew Brown Testimonial

Andrew Brown


I am writing this testimonial with immense gratitude and excitement about the incredible journey I've had with your Run coaching programs, particularly under the guidance of Luis, my run adaptive coach.

Before joining, I was a runner with aspirations of improvement but unsure of where to begin. Luis’s coaching not only provided a structured plan but also instilled confidence in me from day one. 

The personalized approach, tailored to my fitness level and goals, made all the difference.

One of the key benefits I've experienced is the significant improvement in my running technique. 

Luis’s attention to my run programming has not only prevented injuries but has also made my runs more efficient and enjoyable. 

The gradual progression in training ensured that I never felt overwhelmed, and each milestone achieved boosted my motivation.

The mental toughness training incorporated into the program has been transformative. Luis's guidance has not only helped me overcome mental barriers during runs but has also positively impacted various aspects of my life. 

I’m Looking forward to my next few blocks of run coaching leading up to my next marathon in Berlin where I will be looking to reach a sub 4hr marathon ????????

~Andrew Brown

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Jason Arnold Testimonial

Jason Arnold


The approach of sending workouts directly to my watch and the personalized support provided has been a game-changer in achieving my personal best at the half marathon distance.

The convenience of having my workouts seamlessly integrated with my watch has transformed the way I approach training. It's not just about the ease of access; it's the strategic planning and adaptability that make your coaching methods stand out. Each run felt purposeful, and the progression was noticeable from week to week.

What truly sets your coaching apart is the unwavering support I received. The encouragement, insights, and personalized feedback have been instrumental in my success. It's more than just a training plan; it's a collaborative journey where my goals are embraced and pursued with dedication.

I recently achieved a personal best at the half marathon, and I credit this accomplishment to the meticulous coaching and guidance I received. The precision in pacing, strategic advice on race-day tactics, and the mental resilience training have elevated my performance beyond my expectations.

Thank you, luis and the entire run adaptive team, for the commitment, expertise, and continuous support. Your coaching methods have not only improved my running but have also enriched my overall perspective on fitness and well-being.

~ Jason Arnold

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