Tag: MNH

Health Care

Happiness Begins Today With Launch Of Four Oceans

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– Innovative direct sales company embodies the science of happiness that starts with learning, relationships, physical activity, experience and giving.

PLANO, Texas, April 7, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — FourOceans Global, LLC, announced today that the company is officially open.  Headquartered in Plano, Texas, Four Oceans is the leading lifestyle and professional development learning and experiential social selling company focused on a positive, meaningful life defined and attained through “sustained happiness.”

Four Oceans: The smartest place on Earth for you to be, happy.

Four Oceans: The smartest place on Earth for you to be, happy.

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150406/196721LOGO

Founded by industry veteran Robert Oblon who has put together a world-class executive team, Four Oceans looks to elevate global happiness beginning with its 2014 acquisition of The Success Training Network (formally called TSTN) plus many thought leaders in the field of happiness headlined by Shawn Achor, the world’s most recognized Positive Psychologist, Four Oceans is poised to revolutionize the direct selling and self-improvement industries.

“When I was introduced to the concept that the formula for happiness was backwards, I knew that we could elevate an entire industry with what Shawn Achor is proving in neuroscience and positive psychology,” said Oblon. “Four Oceans embodies the science of what happiness researchers have found ~ that sustained happiness is not realized through the attainment of money, things or accomplishments. Rather, sustained happiness comes from the relationships we have, a sense of belonging, physical activity, experience and learning, and giving. And bringing these elements to our members are the drivers behind Four Oceans.” After co-creating WorldVentures, one of the world’s largest direct selling companies in travel, Oblon has helped numerous companies with marketing, video production, web-development and technologies before deciding to launch Four Oceans as a hybrid company that can help everyone in direct selling, even while they’re in other direct selling companies.

“The business of Four Oceans is to deliver a compelling product, a superior customer experience, an enriching business process to recruit and retain Partners, and to be a hassle-free workplace of choice,” said James Menge, startup and travel industry veteran and Four Oceans CEO. With senior leadership roles at American Airlines, Virtuoso, Silverrail and SilverCar, Menge brings a robust business background that will take Four Oceans from launch through a long-term growth mode. Added Menge, “Industry relationships that include the Direct Selling Association (DSA), controls and governance that ensure company compliance, and overseeing business operations are objectives in maintaining stability for our Partners and customers.”

Jeff Cohen, another direct sales industry veteran, has been named the President of Four Oceans, and was recognized for his work and selected to ExecuRank’s TOP CMO #35 of 2012 while at MONAVIE. “Most of us wish we could learn how to make ourselves better, smarter, successful people. The pressures of daily living, maintaining balance in our personal and professional lives, keeping up with friends and family, a demanding schedule, the work environment, insufficient family and personal time, limited rest and relaxation, and the changing environment all contribute to a life that is frustrating, unfulfilled, out of balance, and a disturbance of our natural happiness,” said Cohen. “Now we have a unique opportunity to gain personal and professional improvement with Four Oceans,” he added. Cohen’s vast experience in direct selling formally helped grow the $1Billion direct selling company MONAVIE and has spent a career creating consumer products and media and has been recognized with Reggie, BPME, BPA, Telly and Addy Awards.

“Our mission has always been focused on widening access to learning for everyone,” says Dave Neill, Four Oceans Chief Marketing Officer.  “We are fortunate to be able to bring the worlds leading thought and success trainers together into a single learning and social portal.  Our members have a real need for greater convenience, flexibility and access to learning opportunities, whether to get ahead at work or simply to keep their minds engaged.  With our proprietary self-development on-demand model, Four Oceans is the conduit, connecting people to new ideas with like-minded people from around the world with leading experts.”

Four Oceans plans to establish itself as a leader in lifestyle and professional development. The company will provide members an alternative to the variety of stores and online outlets that sell self-help books, tapes and CD’s through the company’s virtual Happiness curriculum membership.

HAPPINESS CURRICULUM
Four Oceans’ unique subscription-based membership offers curated curriculum from world leading experts that support the founding principles of sustained “Happiness” for all with core values for individuals, families, community at home and in business.

“Happiness is not the belief that we don’t need to change; it’s the realization that we can,” says Shawn Achor, Four Oceans featured trainer and author of bestseller ‘The Happiness Advantage’.

Customers who subscribe to the Four Oceans “Happiness” products & services gain access to learning and development content from leaders in the fields of positive psychology, happiness and personal development. Four Oceans’ products offer members a lesson and quiz-based learning program that teaches both the principles and practical application of what is learned. Achor says, “Knowledge is only part of the battle. Without action, knowledge is often meaningless”.

Beginning with the ’21 Days of Happiness’ course, offered free to subscribers, Four Oceans products offer personal development and self-improvement for anyone who wants to learn how to elevate their lives personally and professionally.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY
Four Oceans operates a social selling model that allows individuals to participate in an income generating opportunity.  Through their groundbreaking compensation model, the Four Oceans “Happiness” business opportunity allows individuals to join as Partners, benefiting from both their personal sales of memberships to customers, and from the efforts of others that they may sponsor into the program.

Four Oceans’ commitment to learning and personal development extends to their Partners by training on the key fundamentals specific to building a successful business. The Partner development program will teach powerful personal skills basics like how to approach new people, and how to invite them to work with you; professional skills including how to conduct effective one-on-one meetings; and taking their Four Oceans business to the next level.

INTERNATIONAL EXPANSION
In addition to today’s announcement of their US launch, Four Oceans also announced plans for pursuing an ambitious expansion plan across Asia and Europe. “We are committed to developing inspirational, life enhancing product which will continue to add value to our membership and create an amazing opportunity for our Partners,” said Beverley Warburton, Executive Vice President of Global Expansion. 

“We are excited with large numbers already embracing the Four Oceans concept in the US and Southeast Asia, and we will roll out the Four Oceans opportunity as quickly as we are able to deliver an uncompromised product and service to Partners and Customers around the globe.  We have the technology and the demand. Four Oceans is a unique possibility for Partners to build an elevating, sustainable business in an uncertain world,” added Warburton.

Four Oceans will continue pre-launch activities in Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong and the Philippines, launching those markets in succession during 2015.

About Four Oceans
Four Oceans is a lifestyle brand that is disrupting the idea that hard work and sacrifice precedes happiness and success. The social selling company, based in Plano Texas, is at the forefront of the happiness movement. Starting with the ’21 Day of Happiness Course,’ Four Oceans learning and self-improvement programs are helping people around the world elevate their lives personally and professionally.

Four Oceans offers individuals two ways to get involved with the company. The first way is to sign up to be a Four Oceans customer and take advantage of “Happiness” self-improvement and life skills curriculum and experiential programs.  Alternatively, people can become a Four Oceans Partner, joining people worldwide currently enjoying the satisfaction and reward of owning their own business rewarding them for selling products and helping others. Partners earn income and other cash and business incentives based on personal and group performance.

Four Oceans is headquartered in Plano, Texas, serving the US and Asia.  For more information about Four Oceans, visit FOUROCEANS.com and follow FOUROCEANS on Facebook (Facebook.com/FOUROCEANS) and Twitter (@weareFOUROCEANS).

MEDIA CONTACT
John Halcomb
behappy@fouroceans.com

Photo – http://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20150407/8521502149

Health Care

ADI and IAGG Select Care Expo for Education Programs

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SHANGHAI, March 20, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Care Expo is co-organized by UBM China, Asia Federation of Aged-Care Services and Hampton Hoerter Healthcare, with the aim of promoting a more mature ageing industry B2B platform so as to accelerate the development of China’s senior care industry.

Care Expo 2015

Care Expo 2015

Care Expo, the leading B2B aged-care conference and trade show in China, has secured a Symposium and a Master Class with two global aged-care leaders; the International Association for Geriatrics and Gerontology (IAGG) and Alzheimer’s Disease International (ADI), respectively.

The Master Class with ADI entitled “Practical Approaches to Addressing Alzheimer’s Disease in China“, will take place on Day 1 of Care Expo, to be held in Shanghai on November 17-18, 2015, while the IAGG Symposium, entitled “Ageing Population and Advanced Aged-Care Practices in China“, will take place on Day 2.

Given the importance of ADI and IAGG to the global aged-care industry, Care Expo is announcing its call for papers at the present time. Industry experts in dementia or gerontology, published Academics and well-known aged-care professionals are encouraged to immediately submit a 250 word topical abstract for the ADI Master Class or the IAGG Symposium, depending on the presenter’s expertise. More information on each call for papers and its submission requirements can be found under the relevant header at www.CareExpoChina.com/?l=en. Please email submissions or programs inquiries to: edprogram@careexpochina.com .   

The ADI Master Class at Care Expo is the first time ADI has entered the China aged-care market. Over 200 local aged-care professionals are expected at the ADI Master Class which will feature nine in-depth topics and 12 local and multinational speakers.

Marc Wortmann, Executive Director of ADI, commented on his hopes for the Master Class: “We want Chinese health care professionals to come out of the Master Class with a better understanding how the disease’s stigma is a barrier for support and treatment of people afflicted with Alzheimer’s and what can be done about it. Secondly, that dementia has a lot of risk factors in common with other chronic diseases like heart disease and diabetes and how healthy lifestyle measures can help reduce the risk or delay the onset of the disease. Support from local China Associations and academic institutions has been broad with Peking University, Shanghai Services Federation and Shanghai Association of Social Welfare all committing resources to the event.

The IAGG Symposium at Care Expo is the first time IAGG has sponsored a symposium for the China Aged-Care market. Over 250 local aged-care professionals are expected at the IAGG Symposium which will feature 11 in-depth topics and 15 local and multinational speakers.

Heung Bong, President of IAGG, said the objectives of the Symposium are, “…to highlight the main issues of population ageing and aged care in China and develop a regionally specific model of care from a global perspective. Since China has the largest older population in the world and its increase will rapidly advance, consequently an array of issues associated with the population ageing will emerge in China.” Support from local China Associations and academic institutions has been broad with Shanghai Services Federation and Shanghai Association of Social Welfare both committing resources to the event.

About IAGG: The IAGG, founded in 1950 in Belgium, has as its primary mission to promote the highest levels of achievement in gerontological research and training worldwide. The IAGG is a United Nations recognized NGO with special consultative status the UN Economic and Social Council. The IAGG is presently located in Seoul, South Korea. Dr. Heung Bong Cha and Dr. Sung-Jae Choi are its President and Secretary General, respectively. Official website: www.iagg.info.

About ADI: Alzheimer’s Disease International is a not for profit organization with its primary office located in London. ADI exists to empower national Alzheimer associations to promote and offer care and support for people with dementia and their caregivers, whilst working globally to focus attention on the disease’s epidemic and campaign for progressive policy change from governments. Marc Wortmann is the Executive Director of ADI. Official website: www.alz.co.uk.

About Care Expo: Care Expo is China’s largest multinational aged-care B2B communications and trade show. Held once a year every November in Shanghai, it offers 1) innovative forums taught by global aged-care leaders, 2) senior industry businesses a superior platform for marketing and 3) access to facility owners for specialized care operators all in China. Privately owned and operated, Care Expo is supported by leading China government organizations and associations. Official website: www.CareExpoChina.com/?l=en.

Photo – http://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20150319/0861502059

CONTACT: Jessie Yang, +86 21 6054 4835, jessie.yang@careexpochina.com

ADV Health Care

Museum Dr. Guislain and Janssen Research & Development, LLC Issue Global Call for Nominations for 2015 Dr. Guislain “Breaking the Chains of Stigma” Award

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GHENT, Belgium, March 10, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — The Museum Dr. Guislain in Ghent, Belgium, and Janssen Research & Development, LLC (“Janssen”) today announced they are seeking nominations for the fourth annual Dr. Guislain “Breaking the Chains of Stigma” Award. The award honours an individual, project or organisation that has made an exceptional contribution to reduce stigma associated with mental illness.

(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150310/732861-a)
(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150310/732861-b)

Nominations from people and organisations across the globe can be submitted at http://www.drguislainaward.org, and will be accepted until 31 March 2015. A $50,000 prize will be awarded to the individual or group receiving the award, which must be used toward further work to reduce societal stigma about mental illness.

The winning individual, project or organisation will be determined by an independent selection committee of international advocates and renowned authorities in the field of mental health, and honoured at a ceremony on 8 October 2015 in Ghent, Belgium.

Museum Dr. Guislain and Janssen jointly sponsor the award, with funding provided by Janssen. Both organisations have a rich heritage and long-standing involvement in the field of mental illness research, treatment and education.

About the Dr. Guislain “Breaking the Chains of Stigma” Award

Individuals, organisations or projects from around the world that have made an exceptional contribution in dealing with, or promoting the awareness of, mental health care are eligible to receive the Dr. Guislain “Breaking the Chains of Stigma” Award. The Award is given to an individual(s), organisation or project that:

  • has made an exceptional contribution to mental healthcare in the broadest sense on a cultural and/or social level;
  • has provided a genuine contribution to decreasing stigma around mental health conditions;
  • has promoted attention for mental health care;
  • and has done all this with passion, creativity and innovation.
Health Care

DKSH Expands Asian Market for Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma

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DKSH, the leading Market Expansion Services provider with a focus on Asia, has reached an agreement with Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd. to prepare the introduction and launch of the Japanese company’s atypical antipsychotic drug to Thailand, Singapore and Hong Kong.

HONG KONG, March 5, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — DKSH Business Unit Healthcare, a leading partner for healthcare companies seeking to grow their business in Asia, will provide marketing, sales and regulatory services as well as distribution and logistics for lurasidone hydrochloride (generic name, “lurasidone”) in Thailand, Singapore and Hong Kong.

Lurasidone is a prescription drug in tablet form first approved in the US for the treatment of adult patients with schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. According to the World Health Organization, more than 21 million people suffer from schizophrenia, a severe mental disorder, characterized by profound disruptions in thinking and affecting language, perception and the sense of self. The disability-adjusted life year (DALY) rate suggests that the impact of schizophrenia is highest in Asian countries.

“Lurasidone is a product of major importance in Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma’s global business strategy. Following launches in the United States, Canada, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and Norway, the collaboration with DKSH is a major step in preparing to introduce the drug to patients in Asia. Working with DKSH allows us to focus on product development while growing our business in strategic markets,” said Makoto Hara, Member, Board of Directors, Executive Vice President, Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma Co., Ltd.

“DKSH is a preferred partner for Japanese clients like Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma that want to expand their Asian footprint. We leverage our 150 years‘ history in Asia, in-depth knowledge of the pharmaceutical markets and regional regulatory, distribution and commercial capabilities to maximize growth for our clients. Working with Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma will potentially bring further innovative treatments to Asian patients,” said Andrew Frye, Head of Business Healthcare, DKSH.

The sales and distribution of lurasidone is pending the drug’s approval by the health authorities of Thailand, Singapore and Hong Kong. Once approved, the agreement will further strengthen DKSH’s market position in the region.

About Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma

Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma is a top-ten listed pharmaceutical company in Japan. Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma aims to produce innovative pharmaceutical products in the Psychiatry & Neurology area and the Oncology area, which have been designated as the focus therapeutic areas. Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma is based on the merger in 2005 between Dainippon Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., and Sumitomo Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. Today, Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma has about 7,000 employees worldwide. Additional information about Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma is available through its corporate website at http://www.ds-pharma.com.

About lurasidone

Lurasidone is an atypical antipsychotic developed originally by Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma, characterized by a unique chemical structure and an affinity for dopamine D2, serotonin 5-HT2A and serotonin 5-HT7 receptors where it has antagonist effects. In addition, lurasidone is a partial agonist at the serotonin 5-HT1A receptor and has no appreciable affinity for histamine or muscarinic receptors.

Under the brand name of LATUDA®, lurasidone has been available for the treatment of adults with schizophrenia in the United States since February 2011, in Canada since September 2012, in Switzerland since September 2013, in the U.K. since August 2014 and in Norway since September 2014. Sumitomo Dainippon Pharma is conducting Phase III clinical trials with a view to acquiring approval of lurasidone for the treatment of schizophrenia in Japan and mainland China. Similar efforts are ongoing in collaboration with Takeda Pharmaceutical Company Limited for 30 European and other countries, with Daiichi Sankyo Company, Limited for four Latin American countries and with Standard Chem. & Pharm. Co., Ltd. for the Taiwan region.

About DKSH

DKSH is the leading Market Expansion Services provider with a focus on Asia. As the term “Market Expansion Services” suggests, DKSH helps other companies and brands to grow their business in new or existing markets.

Publicly listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange since March 2012, DKSH is a global company headquartered in Zurich. With 750 business locations in 35 countries – 720 of them in Asia – and 27,600 specialized staff, DKSH generated net sales of CHF 9.8 billion in 2014.

DKSH Business Unit Healthcare is the leading Market Expansion Services provider for healthcare companies seeking to grow their business in Asia. Custom-made offerings comprise registration and market entry studies as well as importation, customs clearance, marketing and sales to physical distribution, invoicing and cash collection. Products available through DKSH Healthcare include ethical pharmaceuticals, consumer health, over-the-counter (OTC), as well as medical devices. With 150 business locations in 14 countries and around 9,200 specialized staff, Business Unit Healthcare serves over 150,000 customers and generated net sales of around CHF 4.1 billion in 2014.

Health Care SPT

Westin Hotels Continues to Lead Healthy Hotel Revolution with Launch of Wellness Escapes — A Curated Series of On-Site Well-Being Retreats

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Holly Perkins, Certified Strength & Conditioning Specialist and Founder of Women’s Strength Nation, Kicks Off Series with Inaugural Retreat in San Diego in April 2015 and Joins the Westin Well-Being Council

STAMFORD, Conn., March 4, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Westin Hotels & Resorts, part of Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, Inc. (NYSE: HOT), has revealed the next phase of its year-long Westin Well-being Movement with the announcement of Westin Wellness Escapes, an ongoing well-being series led by experts in the fields of mindfulness meditation, nutrition, yoga, running and more. Taking place at Westin properties around the globe, the series will first launch in North America before rolling out internationally. Established health and fitness personality Holly Perkins will kick off the series by hosting the Women’s Strength Nation™ LIVE retreat this April, following her appointment to Westin’s Well-Being Council as the brand’s Move Well Advocate.

Westin Move Well Advocate - Holly Perkin

Westin Move Well Advocate – Holly Perkin

Westin Wellness Escapes are designed to inspire empowerment and help attendees pursue their well-being through interactive workshops, including fitness classes, healthy cooking courses, panel discussions, seminars and robust itineraries of wellness activities. The inaugural retreat, held at The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter Hotel, April 10-12, will consist of a weekend-long curriculum of tutorials, exercises and activities designed to help participants’ cultivate their inner strength.

As a leading voice in fitness and the founder of Women’s Strength Nation, a resource dedicated to educating women on the value of strength training, Holly will offer guests the inspiration and tools needed to lead a healthy lifestyle. Westin will also partner with other wellness leaders to curate subsequent retreats in 2015.

“The Westin Wellness Escapes series is designed to motivate and educate those seeking to achieve or sustain a healthy lifestyle while still exploring the world,” said Brian Povinelli, Global Brand Leader for Westin. “Similar to Westin’s collaboration with New Balance, Holly’s involvement in the program reinforces the Move Well philosophy and lets us further cater to the diverse needs of our guests.”

Westin Picks Up the Pace with First-of-Its-Kind Series

Travelers are increasingly seeking quick and effective wellness breaks instead of extended holidays for mind and body reboots, choosing more accessible options that offer a brief change of scenery, relaxation and wellness activities. Leading research groups, such as Global Wellness Tourism Economy Report, predict that wellness tourism will grow by more than 9% per year through 2017, nearly 50% faster than overall global tourism.

Westin is capitalizing on this growing trend with Wellness Escapes to offer concise, thoughtfully organized itineraries for discerning, wellness-minded travelers. The series is inspired by the brand’s six pillars of well-being: Feel Well, Work Well, Move Well, Eat Well, Sleep Well and Play Well. Themes will vary across all events; with each workshop focused on well-being and the Westin brand philosophy, “For a Better You.”

The Westin Wellness Escapes slated in the brand’s pipeline thus far is as follows:

  • Women’s Strength Nation LIVE with Fitness Expert Holly Perkins at The Westin San Diego Gaslamp Quarter — April 10-12, 2015  
    The weekend-long strength training retreat for women will enable attendees to achieve next level fitness through a multitude of educational sessions. Participants will learn techniques and methods derived from Holly’s Women’s Strength Nation platform to discover personal strength through the development of outer strength. Consumers can book this retreat now at westin.com/wellnessescapes.
  • Triathlon Recovery Retreat with runWESTIN Concierge Chris Heuisler at The Westin Jekyll Island — May 16-17, 2015
    In celebration of its grand opening and as part of its Jekyll Island Turtle Crawl Triathlon sponsorship, The Westin Jekyll Island will offer a 24-hour triathlon recovery retreat, hosted by runWESTIN Concierge, Chris Heuisler. Activities will kick off right away at the finish line of the race with a private tent for hotel guests, and continue both on and off-property until Sunday at check-out. Westin racers who book a stay at the hotel on Saturday, May 16 will enjoy a number of carefully selected amenities targeted at the importance of proper recovery following a race, as well as an expertly crafted schedule of recovery activities and educational talks.

Additional Wesitn Wellness Escapes will be announced throughout the year. More about the inspiring series can be found at westin.com/wellnessescapes. To join the Westin Wellness Escapes conversation, users are invited to use #westinwellbeing on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

Holly’s Fitness Fundamentals Bring to Life Westin’s Mantra “For a Better You“
With 20 years of experience in the health industry, Holly is a leading voice in women’s fitness and the ideal candidate to support the brand’s Move Well pillar and host the inaugural Westin Wellness Escapes retreat with her Women’s Strength Nation programming. Also, as part of the collaboration, Holly has produced four strength training videos with exclusive and engaging content focusing on tips and tricks for staying fit while traveling. Developed as 5-minute video segments, the films provide a comprehensive, equipment free, 20-minute workout which can easily be done in a guest room or at home. The video content is accessible via on-demand for free at 80+ hotels across the country in addition to being available on Westin’s YouTube channels and westin.com/hollyperkins now.

As a certified strength and conditioning specialist, Holly’s success is derived from her philosophy that science should be the foundation of fitness. In 2014, Holly created the Women’s Strength Nation community to educate, inspire and lead women towards a new definition of inner strength. The platform serves as a resource for women seeking to enhance their strength in, and out of, the gym.

The Westin Well-being Council is a diverse advisory board composed of renowned thought leaders, each of whom aligns with a specific wellness brand pillar. Perkins joins Council members Ashley Koff, internationally-renowned dietician, Andy Puddicombe, Headspace Co-Founder and mediation expert, and media mogul Arianna Huffington in guiding and inspiring new initiatives, leveraging proprietary research to inform and introduce new programs throughout the year.

“It is exciting to join the Westin Well Being Council and help you stay fit even when you travel,” said Holly Perkins. “An active life is key to ensuring optimal health, wellbeing and vitality. In order to thrive, the human body needs to run, jump, dance and play every day. My mission in life is to provide inspiration and tools for you to create a fitness plan that works for your lifestyle and helps you achieve your personal best.”

About The Westin Well-being Movement
With a brand positioning rooted in wellness for more than a decade, Westin Hotels & Resorts is dedicated to ensuring that guests leave feeling better than when they arrived.  Earlier this year the brand launched The Westin Well-Being Movement — a year-long global initiative designed to enhance the well-being of guests and associates with the introduction of a string of innovative partnerships and programs across the brand’s six pillars of well-being: Feel Well, Work Well, Move Well, Eat Well, Sleep Well and Play Well. Building upon its existing healthy SuperFoodsRx™ menus, Westin recently introduced new delicious and nutrient-rich offerings including Westin Fresh by The Juicery, featuring energizing juices and smoothies, and kid-tested nourishing dishes developed in partnership with SuperChefs on the Westin Eat Well Menu for Kids (Eat Well). The brand also recently announced a partnership with the mindful meditation app, Headspace (Feel Well), in which guests have exclusive access to customized content through the Westin website, designed to spread healthy benefits including decreasing stress, improving mood and increasing creativity.

The inspiration for Westin’s wellness strategy, the iconic Heavenly® Bed (Sleep Well) is beloved by guests and lauded as one of hospitality’s great innovations. WestinWORKOUT®, RunWESTIN™ and Westin Gear Lending with New Balance® (Move Well) together pack a formidable punch, offering guests a holistic fitness solution. The brand’s nature-inspired design, signature sensory welcome, Heavenly Bath and Heavenly Spa (Feel Well) offer a relaxing respite from the rigors of travel. Tangent (Work Well), an innovative workspace concept for small groups modeled to support today’s mobile traveler, is receiving rave reviews and high usage from guests in locations where available. Westin Weekend (Play Well) signature experiences are designed to let guests escape, discover and relax and the brand’s digital destination guide, Westin Finds from AFAR, provides guests with uniquely curated travel experiences.

For more information on Westin and the brand’s Well-Being Movement, click here. For more information on Westin Hotels & Resorts, please visit westin.com, Facebook or follow Westin on Twitter and Instagram.

About Westin Hotels & Resorts
Westin Hotels & Resorts has been a leader in wellness and hospitality for more than a decade. Today, Westin has more than 200 hotels and resorts in nearly 40 countries and territories, and is owned by Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with more than 1,200 properties in 100 countries and over 180,000 employees at its owned and managed properties.  Starwood is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands:  St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Meridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, Aloft®, and Element®.  The Company boasts one of the industry’s leading loyalty programs, Starwood Preferred Guest (SPG®), allowing members to earn and redeem points for room stays, room upgrades and flights, with no blackout dates.  Starwood also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., a premier provider of world-class vacation experiences through villa-style resorts and privileged access to Starwood brands.  For more information, please visit http://www.starwoodhotels.com.

Photo – http://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20150304/0861501459

Health Care

Emotions vs Health! The Link That Cracks The Wellness Code

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Would You Ever Choose Disease, Unhappy Relationships or Struggle with Stress or Anxiety?

Of course not! Yet people do – every single day!

Heart Disease, Obesity, Stroke, Diabetes, Mental Illness are all on the rise!

Our hospitals and mental health systems are straining under the pressure.

What if there was a way to change all that?

What If There Was a Way to Quickly Bridge the Gap Between Where Life is Now and Where You WANT It To Be?

ADELAIDE, Australia, Feb. 16, 2015 /PRNewswire/ —

  • As more Australians turn away from our medical system, holistic doctor, Dr Darren Weissman from Chicago USA offers a quick natural solution to physical, emotional and mental symptoms, which can be reproduced again and again. 

For broadcast quality video and high-res images, please visit the Multimedia News Release:
http://medianet.multimediarelease.com.au/bundles/a5c3e5a1-8b7b-41ae-9012-e1f2d9dbcb75 

  • A world renowned expert in the field of the conscious and subconscious minds, he’s conducted over 100,000 documented case histories of people using his technique showing that emotions act like drugs in the brain and the role neuro-peptides play in emotions and immunity. 
  • Creator of The LifeLine Technique® – a simple 16 step process  incorporating over 14 different modalities such as Neuro-Emotional Technique (NET); Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP), Applied Kinesiology (AK), Chinese 5 Element Theory, Natural Healing, Ayurveda, Acupuncture, Homeopathy and other forms of energy medicine.
  • Based on his expertise of the subconscious mind and holistic health Darren has been featured in the films ‘E-Motion’, ‘Making Mankind’, ‘Beyond Belief’ and ‘The Truth’ as well as appearing on US TV. He has also written for numerous magazines including The Huffington Post, Natural Health, Prevention and InStyle.   He’s a best selling author of 4 books including The Power of Infinite Love and Gratitude and The Heart of the Matter.
  • Dr Weissman will give three 2 hour talks in Australia and 1 in Singapore on The Power of Emotions explaining the power that our emotions exert on our body and mind and how we can change and heal our lives. 
  • Available for interview from Monday 16th through 3rd March.  

He’s being brought to Australasia by Diane McCann (from Beyond the Ordinary) who had a severe case of exophthalmos for which there was no cure except risky surgery.  She read his book, flew to US, had one session which flattened her left eye completely and her right eye by 85%.

Epigenetics is a new field of medicine; and latest research shows we can indeed change our genes! This follows on from the work of internationally recognised neuroscientist Dr Candace Pert, discoverer of the opiate receptor in the brain, proving scientifically the unity of mind and body and the ability of emotions to affect health;  she was a significant contributor to the emergence of Mind-Body Medicine as an area of legitimate scientific research from 1980 to her death in 2013.  Dr Bruce Lipton a cellular biologist also teaches the same thing. See related documents below to read what they both wrote about Dr Darren Weissman.

70+ Year Young NSW Farmer gets her License Back and Baffles Doctors.

Deirdre was diagnosed with Central Sleep Apnoea (CSA) in 2012.  Medical results from sleep tests showed as many as 52 episodes overnight so her driving license was revoked.  She had 3 sessions with a new modality called The Lifeline Technique after which she again underwent a full testing. Staff and her specialist were stunned – ZERO evidence of CSA.  She got her license back in August 2013.  6 monthly check ups and not one episode since (Feb. 2015)

PTSD Gone and a New Life Began!

Diagnosed with PTSD in 2012 due to a series of traumatic events caused by traumatic exposure as a first response emergency services worker. Eighteen months later medically discharged from work and left as a shell of her former self.  2014, following an unsuccessful return to work life spiraled even further down, strength and determination gone. Sophie lost her will to fight, lost the will to live and was hospitalised.  12 months later life is totally different. She has almost completed a diploma, re-trained, gained employment in a new career, not to mention embracing passion for life and a joy in being alive.  What changed? She had some sessions with a Certified LifeLine practitioner and the Technique “shifted” what medication and hours of counselling could not. She regained her sense of self and no longer feels like a victim anymore. Both her doctor and psychologist are amazed at her progress.

Media Contact/ interviews with Dr Darren Weissman and/or Diane McCann

Diane McCann 
Mobile 0400 371 994

Health Care

China Tops the Region in Health and Well-being Perceptions, New Cigna ‘360-degree Well-being Score’ Reveals

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Annual Cigna Corporation Survey monitors social factors impacting health and wellness in Asia-Pacific

HONG KONG, Jan. 13, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — Perceptions and attitudes towards overall ‘well-being’ amongst the public in Asia and international markets reveal that good health matters. Cigna Corporation (NYSE: CI), a global health service company dedicated to helping people improve their health, well-being and sense of security, today announced the results of a major survey to monitor and track consumer motivations and perceptions.

Cigna '360-degree Well-being Score' infographic

Cigna ‘360-degree Well-being Score’ infographic

“The Cigna ‘360-degree Well-being Score’ is focused on questioning respondents on their attitudes towards health and their own particular personal perceptions of what makes for a healthy life and lifestyle,” explained Mr. Jason Sadler, President of Cigna’s International Markets business.

Mainland China ranked first overall in the survey’s ‘360-degree Well-being Score’ league table of Asia Pacific countries/regions, which included South Korea, Thailand and New Zealand — with Hong Kong placing last, below even international countries such as the UK.

Happy Mainland China rated their health and well-being highly, with almost one in every ten ranking their overall well-being as ‘excellent’ and a further 33% as ‘very good’.  This compared starkly with Hong Kong, where less than a third rated their overall personal perceptions of health and well-being as being either ‘excellent’ or ‘good’.

The majority of both Mainland China and Thailand’s survey respondents also claimed that their overall health and well-being had improved over the last 12 months, at 54% and 48% respectively, whilst both Korea (77%) and Hong Kong (75%) believed they were either ‘no better’ or indeed ‘worse’ than before.

“The annual survey is intended to create an annual index or ‘score’ that identifies and will continue to track and correlate the factors, motivations, perceptions and attitudes that impact a person’s, as well the region’s, health and well-being,” Sadler added.

As well as ‘scoring’ an individual’s, as well as a country’s, health and well-being perceptions, the initial Survey has thrown up some interesting general regional trends. 

Firstly, it explodes the Asian work-ethic, ‘money at all cost’ myth, as the findings actually show that, across all the countries surveyed, personal and family health, fitness and happiness ranks much higher than financial well-being — collectively, just 8% ranked financial well-being as the most important factor, compared to 54% for physical health and 33% for family well-being.

However, Asia’s families are facing financial stress, as the Survey reveals that three out of every four families are struggling to cope financially, with only 24% believing they are currently financially secure and just 19% believing they are prepared sufficiently for retirement.

“This financial strain is most keenly felt across the region’s forty-something’s,” remarked Mr. Sadler. “Our regional generational split findings show that whilst the 20-somethings are on the whole, generally happy, the ‘sandwich generation’ of forty-something’s, who are juggling children, work and increasingly elderly parents, are feeling the strain.  There is a clear financial, social and physical well-being ‘dip’ where satisfaction of the overall well-being score drops, before recovering later in the 50’s age group,” he said.

The Survey also highlighted that financial health impacts physical health, with 37% of the region as a whole sleeping only six or less hours a night and 43% of those surveyed that say they don’t get enough sleep citing financial and work worries as a primary cause.

“Today more than ever, we define health and well-being in a variety of ways. It’s not only about our physical well-being, but our social, family, financial and work well-being also impacts how we perceive our overall well-being,” said Mr. Sadler. 

“In our fast-paced world, it has never been harder to achieve and maintain wellness across all these areas.  Staying healthy and well can be complicated and hard work. At Cigna, we hope to use insights from this survey to potentially develop new products and services that are simple to understand and easy to access; and also look to achieve what we call ‘Health Outcomes’ — practical initiatives — either small or big — in each individual market, that can help improve customer’s health, well-being and overall security.”

“The Survey represents a key strategy in helping us better understand customers’ needs and work together with them to help achieve healthier, more secure, lives.”

The annual Cigna 360-degree Well-being Score’ is an independent study, conducted by Ipsos, initially covering the APAC markets of Hong Kong, Mainland China, Thailand, Korea and New Zealand, together with international markets including the UK. Data is collected online from a representative random sample of 1,000 people in each market, totaling 5,000 consumers across the five Asian markets.

As part of the on-going initiative, a Cigna ‘360-degree Well-being Score’ online mini-survey will be launched shortly that will be available for members of the public in each market to assess their own personal well-being score and compare it against the national average. 

About Cigna 

Cigna Corporation (NYSE: CI) is a global health service company dedicated to helping people improve their health, well-being and sense of security. All products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of Cigna Corporation, including Connecticut General Life Insurance Company, Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company, Life Insurance Company of North America and Cigna Life Insurance Company of New York. Such products and services include an integrated suite of health services, such as medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, vision, supplemental benefits, and other related products including group life, accident and disability insurance. Cigna maintains sales capability in 30 countries and jurisdictions, and has more than 85 million customer relationships throughout the world. To learn more about Cigna®, including links to follow us on Facebook or Twitter, visit www.cigna.com.

Photo – http://photos.prnasia.com/prnh/20150113/8521500214

Health Care

World-class holistic therapy destination Helix Healthcare Group helps Canadians achieve complete wellness in 2015

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TORONTO, Jan. 7, 2015 /PRNewswire/ — While physical fitness traditionally tops the list of New Year’s resolutions, Helix Healthcare Group is encouraging you to prioritize mental wellness in pursuit of self-improvement this year. Located in downtown Toronto, the state-of-the-art facility is the first of its kind in Canada, offering a neuroscience-based approach to help clients overcome everything from anxiety and depression to substance abuse and addiction.

Helix Healthcare Group

Helix Healthcare Group

Logo – http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150106/167335LOGO

Together, Helix Healthcare Group CEO and founder Mark Rivkin and clinical director Jesse Hanson developed a treatment model that pairs traditional methods of care with mind-body techniques and cutting-edge therapies. Unlike conventional treatments, which may look solely at the symptoms, clients work with a team of industry-leading specialists to explore the origins of the issue, address the underlying causes, and begin a path to wellness. After an initial assessment, the prescription for healing may include a blend of body-centered psychotherapy, mindfulness practices, meditation, hypnotherapy, sound therapy, acupuncture and much more.

“Helix Healthcare Group was born out of a need for this type of treatment facility in Canada – one that addresses the root causes of an issue and fosters long-lasting change,” said Helix Healthcare Group CEO and founder, Mark Rivkin. “We are bringing West-Coast style holistic healing to Toronto because it really works.“

A fit for anyone seeking self-improvement, Helix Healthcare Group offers two unique programs. Combining the science of neuropsychology with the art of mindfulness, Catalyst Wellness is for anyone looking to reduce anxiety, break through stress, and resolve long-held trauma. Customized therapeutic programs, such as Enlighten, Awaken and Inspire, range from one to two hours a week up to a more intensive seven to ten hours a week. Specialized programs, such as Deep Dive, offer an inner-personal crash course to fast forward a transformational journey, while Perform is designed to help the corporate executive break free from complacency, rediscover their passion, and reinvest in their career. Individual treatment and counselling services are also available outside of their programs.

Spectrum Recovery is an out-patient program with an integrated and holistic approach to treating substance abuse and addiction. Based in neuroscience and delivered with compassion, the program provides an individualized approach to treatment, with more one-on-one sessions than any other program in Canada. The strong focus on aftercare fills a void in Canada, for those seeking support on their path to recovery and is a defining factor in preventing relapse. Offering five distinct levels, programs range from five hours a week to maintain ongoing recovery, and up to 20 hours a week as an alternative to residential treatment. Spectrum Recovery also provides professional assistance for interventions and Sober Coaches can be on-call around the clock to accompany the client during particular activities.

As many as one in five Canadians experience a mental health problem or addiction in their lifetime. Helix Healthcare Group guides clients on a path of empowerment and transformation, in pursuit of a happier, healthier and more balanced life. For more information, visit helixhealthcaregroup.com.

About Helix Healthcare Group

Located in downtown Toronto, Helix Healthcare Group is an innovative provider of treatment services for those facing mental health, trauma and/or addiction issues. As the first of its kind in Canada, the 4000 sq. ft. world-class treatment facility offers a unique, holistic approach that pairs traditional methods of care with cutting-edge therapies to help clients achieve lasting change.

Twitter: @Helix_Health
Instagram: @helixhealth
Facebook: Helix Healthcare Group
Website: Helix Healthcare Group

Megan Leahy, rock-it promotions, inc., at megan@rockitpromo.com or +1.416.656.0707 ext. 109; Kate Makinson, rock-it promotions, inc. at katemakinson@rockitpromo.com or +1.416.656.0707 ext. 105

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Health Care

London Hosts World Summit in the Fight Against Depression

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LONDON, November 25, 2014 /PRNewswire/ —

Global leaders unite for change at Economist Events’ Global Crisis of Depression 

Today, global leaders, policy makers, industry professionals and academics called on countries around the world to do more to help the 350 million people suffering from depression.[1] Meeting at ‘The Global Crisis of Depression: The Low of the 21st Century?’ summit, participants, including Kofi Annan, former UN Secretary General, Norman Lamb MP, Minister of State for Care and Support, United Kingdom and Nick Hækkerup, Minister of Health, Denmark stressed that healthcare systems, businesses and the general public need to work together to fight depression.

Kofi Annan told the delegates: “Depression has many impacts and dimensions. The danger is that this can make it harder to shape a coherent and effective response.  We need to build the widest possible partnerships and use effective resources to overcome these challenges.  I don’t underestimate the scale of the challenge but I’ve seen how progress can be delivered in the most testing circumstances.  We have the knowledge to tackle depression, we now need to find the will and resources to use this knowledge to transform the lives of hundreds and millions of people.”

“I hope that today’s meeting has given people a greater understanding of the significant impact of depression and its effect on society and the economy. We have examined what measures governments and businesses are taking to address the impact of depression and looked at best practices to deal with the issue,” said Professor David Haslam, Chair, National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. “However, much needs to be done. It is now time to move forward to a future that sees the overall quality of life of patients suffering from depression improved and the economic impact of depression minimised.”

Depression is now the leading cause of disability worldwide.[2] In Europe it accounts for more than 7% of premature mortality[3] and now costs European governments more than €92 billion per year.[4]

It is estimated that more than a quarter of citizens of working age have suffered from a form of mental illness including depression,[5]  placing a huge strain on economic productivity and society welfare. The personal and societal costs have also become significant, including higher health care costs for individuals and employers, family care giver burdens and serious complications for the patients themselves.[4],[6]   

“Depression can be a devastating illness and I’m determined to make sure anyone affected gets the support they need. We are making progress – England is a world leader in improving access to talking therapies, we have a ground breaking plan to transform mental health care and I’ve challenged every FTSE 100 company to fight discrimination by signing up to Time to Change,” said Norman Lamb MP, Minister of State for Care and Support, United Kingdom. “But there is still work to do for Government and many others. The health service; researchers; schools; and not least employers all have a vital role in making sure anyone with depression gets the support they deserve.”

Alastair Campbell, Communicator, Writer and Strategist, and an Ambassador for the Time to Change campaign, has spoken publicly about his own experiences of depression. He said: “There is nobody alive who doesn’t know someone with depression yet it is still surrounded by stigma and taboo and there is still a reluctance in many quarters even to consider it as an illness. It is one of the worst illnesses there is and Governments need to give mental health the same priority as physical health. Given that it affects the working population, it is in the interests of government and business to work together on this. I welcome the fact that The Economist is giving it such priority attention and hope others follow suit.”

“The OECD has found that mental disorders like depression cost OECD countries up to 4% of GDP, can double or triple the likelihood of being unemployed, increase drop-out from education, and impede treatment of physical health problems. Steps must be taken to fully implement treatments and interventions that work,” said Francesca Colombo, Head of Health Division, OECD. “While it is hugely significant that depression has been recognised by so many stakeholders, today’s discussions show that there is still much to be done. It is imperative that all parties work together to elevate the importance of managing and treating depression as a serious public health issue and ensure commitment from everyone to ensure overall outcomes are improved.”

For more information, please visit http://www.depression.economist.com

The Global Crisis of Depression was organised by The Economist Events, and sponsored by H. Lundbeck A/S.

Join the discussion on Twitter at #depressionsummit and @EconomistEvents.

About The Economist Events

The Economist Events is the leading provider of international forums for senior executives seeking new insights into strategic issues. These meetings include industry conferences, management events and government roundtables held around the world. As part of The Economist Group, The Economist Events is a highly respected brand with a 162-year history and an unrivalled reputation for excellence and independence. Each meeting organised by The Economist Events delivers objective and informed analysis. Our meetings provide unusually high-level forums where senior executives can gain insights, exchange views and compare strategies.
http://www.economistinsights.com/events

References 

  1. European Pact for Mental Health and Well-being, 2008; J. Olesen, et al. Eur J Neurology. 2012; 19:155-162
  2. World Health Organisation. Depression Factsheet. Available at: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs369/en/
  3. European Commission. Actions against depression. Improving mental and well-being by combating the adverse health, social and economic consequences of depression. 2004. Available at: http://ec.europa.eu/health/ph_determinants/life_style/mental/docs/depression_en.pdf  
  4. J. Olesen, et al. Eur J Neurology, 2012; 19: 155-162
  5. Mental Health Foundation. Mental Health Statistics. Available at: http://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/help-information/mental-health-statistics/  
  6. Evans-Lacko S, Knapp M. Importance of Social and Cultural Factors for Attitudes, Disclosure and Time off Work for Depression: Findings from a Seven Country European Study on Depression in the Workplace. PLOS One.  DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0091053

For press enquiries please contact:

economistevents@edelman.com