Blog Entry #10: Write an opinion paragraph: “What did I learn in this course?”

 

What did I learn in this course?

 

      In the Composition I course, I practiced my writing skills quite a bit. First, it was a challenge for me to start writing articles because I am not used to doing it, however, as the course progressed, I acquired the ability to write and structure my ideas better. The use of outlines was essential to ensure that each paragraph and essay followed a logical, ordered, and coherent structure. Second, I learned to use connectors in writing, as well as the use of simple, compound, and complex sentences, in order to keep the vocabulary of the writing at an advanced level. Third, I learned quite a bit of vocabulary, since the fact of reading and writing allowed me to learn new words that are now part of my vocabulary. In general, the course allowed me to practice my writing skills, learn the structure of paragraphs and essays, and expand my vocabulary.

Blog Entry #9: Write an expository essay on Complementary and Alternative Medicine.

 

 Complementary and Alternative Medicine

     Complementary and alternative medicine includes a wide variety of therapies and practices that are different from conventional medicine but focused on the same objective, which is to heal or treat diseases. Many people use it as a complement to the medications they use in their treatments or as an alternative. Its principles are based on the fact of treating people in a comprehensive way, that is, it goes beyond treating only specific symptoms. This is a topic that is important to address due to the boom it has had in recent years. Therefore, in this essay we are going to address what is meant by complementary and alternative medicine, the paradigm shift it has generated and its application in daily life.

   According to Nogales-Gaete (2004, p. 4), complementary and alternative medicine is understood as “the set of diverse systems, practices and medical and health care products that are not currently considered part of conventional medicine.” That is, it does not focus only on specific symptoms, but rather seeks to improve people's health in a comprehensive manner and enhance their general well-being. Examples of these practices include acupuncture, magnet therapy, yoga, meditation, herbal therapy, energy healing, among others. The above has implied a paradigm shift reflecting an evolution in society regarding the use of natural and holistic methods. Astin, Harkness and Ernst (n.d) point out that more and more studies of various types including randomized trials that evaluate the effectiveness of such complex aspects as the power of prayer, distant breath and healing touch. The above has confirmed in turn that there is no single method to treat diseases. Today, complementary and alternative medicine has made it possible to combine the best practices of both branches of medicine and offer a more personalized treatment for patients.

    Complementary and alternative medicine represents a new method of healing in the modern world. However, it is necessary to know its scope, limitations, the paradigm shift it implies and how it is applied in daily life. Many of these practices lack scientific support, therefore, it is necessary to evaluate their safety and effectiveness. Despite the above, these practices combined with conventional medicine can offer patients more options for their physical, mental and spiritual well-being. Therefore, I consider it a good option and when it comes to improving our health we can take advantage of the benefits that both medical worlds offer us.

References:

Nogales-Gaete, J. (2004). Medicina alternativa y complementaria. Revista Chilena De Neuro-psiquiatríA, 42(4). https://doi.org/10.4067/s0717-92272004000400001

The Efficacy of “distant healing”: A systematic review of randomized trials. (n.d.). Astin JA, Harkness E, Ernst E., 132: 903-910.

Blog Entry #8: Read the given story and talk about the benefits and challenges writers face every day.

Benefits and challenges writers face every day

     Dedicating oneself to writing represents benefits and challenges for writers who must do it on a daily basis. On the one hand, writing is beneficial because it is a way in which writers can express their ideas, communicate information, encourage writing, tell stories and create connections with readers. In addition, writing is a skill that allows the development of other skills, such as increasing critical thinking, serving as a therapeutic tool to channel emotions and improving attention and decision making. On the other hand, there are the challenges that writers face, such as mental block, insecurity about whether what is written is good and interesting for readers. Despite the benefits and challenges, the important thing is to remember that everything is a balance and when new habits are acquired, one must be perseverant and maintain discipline, remembering that every effort is always worth it.