What is a bunion?

A bunion is often a result of the body searching for stability higher up the chain. When the big toe is pressed inward toward the other four toes, the body, in its brilliance, seeks stability. By creating an outcropping of bone, you now have that wider base you are designed to have and do have when the toes are properly aligned. This lack of stability elsewhere in the body is often why bunions will reform after being surgically removed. The bunion is a cry for help, not the root of the problem.

Where did the magical “10,000 steps per day” originate?

This came from a Japanese marketing campaign for a pedometer company in the 1960s. What is actually the “best” number? Well, it all depends on your goals. Any movement is better than no movement. Many studies have shown “exercise snacks” — getting your heart rate up for 10-minute spurts per day (think breathless movement) — have numerous health benefits.

Why is a yawn contagious?

Most believe this happens primarily because of social mirroring and empathy. When we see someone yawn, the motor neurons of the brain trigger a reaction to mimic. This helps highly socialized animals (like humans) try to sync with the pack.

Why do you inhale or gasp when scared?

This reaction is related to the fight-or-flight part of our nervous system. It serves to flood the body with oxygen so our muscles are primed to run from danger or stand our ground and fight.

Why do we hold our breath when physically exerting ourselves?

Holding your breath during challenging physical exertion helps to create intra-abdominal pressure, which in turn transfers strength to our limbs. So that seemingly impossible task of opening the jar of peanut butter suddenly becomes doable.

Why does your foot fall asleep?

When we place prolonged pressure on the nerve innervating the foot, it temporarily blocks the signal between the foot and the brain. Much like squeezing a garden hose shunts the flow of water, the compressed nerve is unable to send or receive the electrical signals from the brain. When that pressure on the nerve is relieved, the nerves “turn on,” causing the tingling sensation.