SUNDAY NIGHT SLIDES
Radiation, if you disregard the negative connotations, is simply the movement of energy from one place to another with its intensity levels recorded on the electromagnetic (EMR) spectrum.
On one end of the spectrum you have gamma rays and x-rays that have the highest energy levels and, consequently, their waves have the shortest wavelength.
Gamma is a harmful type of radiation that was released from the nuclear bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki and also during the nuclear power plant explosion in Chernobyl.
Radiotherapy, using higher energy radiation like gamma is, according to the NHS, considered the most effective cancer treatment (after surgery) as it slows the growth of destructive cancer cells.
On the other end of the spectrum are microwaves and also radio waves that produce lower energy and longer wavelengths (that can safely travel far) operating at frequencies that we know from our favourite radio stations between 88 to 108 FM (frequency modulation) or AM radio (amplitude modulation).
FM produces a higher quality sound simply because of its higher range of frequency. In terms of sound frequencies, the lower end of the range is commonly known as bass and the higher is treble.
Visible light on the spectrum
As humans, we only need to see what's called the visible light section of the electromagnetic spectrum, which is bang in the middle between ultraviolet and infrared and can be interpreted by our eyes as the colours: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet.
What about black and white?
Well, white itself is classed as a colour because it reflects all the colours of the visible light spectrum back to the eyes, but black however, isn't classed as a colour because it simply absorbs all the colours, reflecting none to the eyes, especially true vantablack!
So if you see an object as green, for example, its materials have absorbed all the colour light waves mentioned above, apart from green, and it's that light wave that's received by the light receptors in your eyes, transmitting the interpretation to the brain.
Sunlight, also known as solar radiation waves, provides the energy that plants need to convert carbon dioxide and water into carbohydrates and oxygen that are essential for photosynthesis allowing the plant to breathe, grow and reproduce in a cycle.
The effect on humans
Much like plants, human metabolism (the process in your body that converts what you eat and drink into energy) is controlled by energy signals and magnetic fields too, with the human heart producing its own electrical pulses, measured by an ECG.
A healthy body efficiently regenerates its cells using its own energy signals but if the muscle or bones cells are damaged then this malfunction interferes with the signals inhibiting repair with reduced energy thus causing pain.
As we get older, our muscle cells naturally degenerate which is why painful conditions that restrict movement like arthritis, back pain and knee joint pains worsen with age.
Revolutionary technology
Investigating further, I spent a day with the team At The Core Health who are one of a few physiotherapy clinics in the UK to be using exciting new electromagnetic therapy that stimulates cell repair and improves cell growth in evidently damaged regions.
Like a radio, you simply tune the machine to the specific frequency of the cells that are different in bone, muscle, cartilage or ligaments (dependant on the patient's injury or condition) and relax for an hour on the bed whilst it works its magic.
Medical trials and resounding anecdotal feedback are showing that this type of therapy activates cell regeneration within the joints, reducing chronic discomfort and distinctly improving joint mobility.
So if you have a close friend, colleague or loved one who's suffering do get in touch and I'll be happy to direct you to the right resources.
More on this next week with exploration on energy management within the body and how it can be used positively – not only for physical health – but for mental health too (hint, Chakras).
FEATURED SLIDE
The full Harvest Moon in all its glory last week shot from Durley Chine beach along the coast of Bournemouth, UK, by Jane Dewell. A marvellous capture that enhances the physical presence of the moon but reinforces its gravitational strength on the bulging tides, in contrast to the behemoth watercraft beneath.
WORTH WATCHING
From the Director: Growing up in a single parent home, I watched my own mom balance the risks of raising me in a way that would allow me to carve my own path whilst not passing on an inherent fear of the unknown. This film is for everyone who hopes to raise kids and share with them the places and experiences they cherish most. It is a tribute to the complicated world of parenthood.
FINAL THOUGHTS 💭
In memory of Josh Taylor ❤️