The Healing Power of Touch- An Update

My Food for Thought: The Healing Power of Touch

Some mornings, as I sit at my desk/computer tapping out another daily blog post, I marvel that something as simple as human touch can do what even the most advanced medicine sometimes struggles to do: calm the mind, steady the heart, and remind the body that it is still very much alive and connected. 

At my age, I have learned that there are many ways to take care of ourselves, medications, diet, walking for exercise, but the older I get, the more I appreciate the quiet, healing power of a hand on my shoulder or a reassuring hug after a long day or a whole body massage.

Science tells us what our hearts have long suspected. Gentle, affectionate touch can lower stress hormones like cortisol and raise the levels of “feel-good” chemicals such as serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin. These changes can help strengthen the immune system, improve mood, and even support better sleep and heart health. In other words, massage, a simple hug or friendly pat on the back is not just heartwarming, it is, in a very real way, medicine without a prescription.

Living alone, but not lonely in my active-senior community, I see every day how much touch matters, especially for older adults who may be widowed, far from family, or quietly missing the small gestures of affection that used to fill their homes. 

A warm handshake at the dining room, a gentle shoulder squeeze from a neighbor on our walks, or the comforting, rhythmic touch during a professional massage can brighten the entire day and soften the edges of isolation and worry. Studies show that for seniors, caring touch and massage can ease anxiety and depression, improve circulation, and offer that precious feeling of being seen and valued.

My own life has been deeply shaped by touch. I still remember the steady, capable hands of my late spouse, a dedicated Filipino nurse who cared for patients in hospitals, homes, and community settings. She understood long before it became fashionable to talk about “holistic care” that healing was not only about pills and procedures, but also about presence, a gentle hand to hold during a frightening diagnosis, or a reassuring touch on the arm when words failed. Watching her work taught me that compassion travels through the fingertips as surely as it does through the voice.​

These days, my “treatment plan” includes a mix of modern medicine and old-fashioned human kindness. I manage my own health challenges, like Stage 4 chronic kidney disease, with the help of my doctors, my daily walks, my reading, and my writing. But there is a special kind of therapy in the small touches of everyday life: a friendly pat on the back after a good game of bridge or mahjong, a hug from a visiting family member, or the soothing movements of a weekly massage that quiet both muscles and mind. These moments may not show up on a lab report, but I feel their effect in my spirit and, I suspect, in my immune system as well.

My daily blogging has become another way of “touching” others across distance. Each time I sit down to write, I imagine readers scattered across the world, each carrying their own burdens, joys, and private worries. I cannot hold their hands, but I hope my words can land like a gentle touch on the shoulder, encouraging, steadying, reminding them that they are not alone in whatever season of life they are in. In this sense, connection through touch is not only physical; it is also emotional and spiritual, carried by presence, attention, and genuine care.​

So today’s Food for Thought is this: if you are able, offer someone a small, sincere gesture of touch, a handshake, a hug, a pat on the back, or even just a moment of steady eye contact paired with a gentle hand resting on theirs. You may be easing their stress, lifting their mood, and quietly strengthening their health, even if neither of you can see it happening in the moment. And if, like me, you also live alone, remember that you can still “touch” others through kindness, attentive listening, and, yes, even through the words you share each day with the world.

One simple touch, one kind word, one thoughtful blog post at a time, we continue to remind each other that we belong, that we matter, and that our hearts and bodies still respond to connection in the most beautifully human way.

https://chateaudumer.blogspot.com/2025/10/the-healing-power-of-touch-benefits-of.html

https://chateaudumer.blogspot.com/2026/03/holding-hands-and-why-people-need-hug.html

Finally,Here's how massage affect your  nervous system

Massage affects the nervous system in several ways. It can calm the nervous system by activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which promotes relaxation and reduces stress. This can lead to a decrease in cortisol levels, heart rate, and blood pressure. Massage can also stimulate nerve endings, releasing chemicals such as dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins, which can help alleviate pain, improve mood, and promote feelings of relaxation and well-being. Additionally, massage can increase vagal activity, which can help regulate the body's response to stress and promote relaxation. Overall, massage can have a profound impact on both physical and emotional health by positively influencing the nervous system.

Finally My Reel of the Day: If you have to remove Three, which One:

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1420974209710218

My Photo of the Day- Sunrise Viewed From the Boarding Area of UAL at the Washington DC National Airport- Taken May 18, 2026 

Washington DC Trip- May 14-18, 2026-Part 2 of 3

Part 1 of this blog series was my reflection and Photos taken during Carenna Graduation from GWU Elliot School of International Affairs with ceremonies at the Charles E Smith Gymnasium on Friday, May 15 and at the Mall, Sunday, May 17.  This Part 2 is about the post-graduation parties( dinner and receptions) attended by Carenna, her Mom Ditas and Aunt Ella Lazarte as well as all the places where we dined and our hotel for 5 days. 

Ditas and I booked a one-Bedroom Suite at the State Plaza Hotel ( 2117 E Street, NW)  with Completely furnished Kitchen. Our  Room  was Number 101 with picture windows showing  the Department of State Building(www.stateplaza.com) across. 

Here are some photos I took of the Hotel and its modern art decor in our suite. 

OUR PICTURE WIMDOW IS ON LEFT OF PHOTO

The Department of State Building and Headquarters across the Street from our Room Window 

Photos I took inside from our Picture Window View Across the Street.

I loved all the modern Paintings Decor in All the Public Places in the Hotel ( Lobbies and Walls).  

The Above three are the Paintings in Our Living, Dining and bedroom of our Suite. 

Saturday morning, I invited my youngest Sister Agnes and Hubby Dennis Galvin for All You Can Eat Lunch at the Founding Farmer's Fishery and Bakery at the Georgetown River Bank Restaurant Mall. https://www.wearefoundingfarmers.com/location/dc/ It had been 9 years since we see each other. 

Before and during our lunch, Ditas and I took photos along the Potomac River Bank Park with views of the Kennedy Center and Key Bridge. Here are some photos.

Brother-in-law, Dennis Galvin, my younger sister, Agnes. Ditas and Me at Lunch  

Part of the Georgetown Riverbank ( Potomac) Park and Board Walk

Views of the Kennedy Center from the Georgetown Riverfront Park and Restaurant Mall

For Details visit: 

https://www.nps.gov/places/georgetown-waterfront-park.htm

Lastly, here are photos of the sunrise while we were waiting to board at National Airport DC, UN lounge for our trip back to SFO- Note that from East to West the direct flight was over 6 hours. However from West to East was only 4 hours and 36 minutes due the aid of tail winds.    

I am a little tired from the trip but happy and eager for my whole body massage in the next 3 hours this morning.  

             

Reflections on a Granddaughter’s Graduation-Part1 of 3

From Opportunity to Uncertainty: Reflections on a Granddaughter’s Graduation

Last Friday, I attended one of the proudest moments in a grandfather’s life - the graduation of my granddaughter from the George Washington University, specifically the Elliott School of International Affairs in Washington, DC. Surrounded by cheering families, proud parents, and hopeful students dressed in caps and gowns, the atmosphere was joyful and inspiring. More than 600 students graduated that day with Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Arts, and Master of Science degrees.

My granddaughter was among approximately 60 graduates receiving bachelor’s degrees in International Affairs. Yet amid the celebration, one statistic stayed in my mind long after the ceremonies ended. She told me that only about 25 of the 60 graduates had definite plans after graduation either admission to graduate school or tentative job offers. The majority were still uncertain about their future employment.

That reality made me reflect deeply on how different life is today for young graduates compared to my own generation in the mid-1960s.

When I graduated many decades ago, the world seemed filled with opportunity. A college degree, particularly in science or technical fields, almost guaranteed employment. In my own experience, I had several job offers before graduation. Employers actively recruited graduates, industries were expanding, and America’s postwar economy was booming. There was optimism that education naturally led to stable employment, home ownership, and a predictable middle-class life.

Today’s graduates face a very different landscape.

The modern economy is more technologically advanced, globally interconnected, and highly competitive. Artificial intelligence, automation, outsourcing, and economic uncertainty have transformed the employment market. Many entry-level positions that once served as stepping stones for young professionals have disappeared or become temporary contract work. Even highly educated graduates from prestigious universities now compete in crowded labor markets.

Ironically, this generation may be the most educated in history, yet many enter adulthood burdened by anxiety, student debt, and uncertainty about their future. Degrees alone no longer guarantee economic security.

For students graduating in fields such as International Affairs, the challenge can be even greater. Government hiring has slowed in many areas. International organizations and NGOs face funding uncertainties. Diplomatic and policy careers remain attractive but highly competitive. Many graduates now pursue internships, fellowships, or graduate degrees simply to remain competitive in the marketplace.

As I watched the graduates crossing the stage in Washington, DC, I could not help but compare the America of my youth with the America facing today’s young adults.

In the 1960s, despite social upheavals and the Vietnam War, there remained broad faith in upward mobility. A college education was viewed as a direct bridge toward stability and opportunity. Today, that bridge appears less certain and more fragile.

Yet I also admire this younger generation. They are adaptable, technologically sophisticated, globally aware, and resilient in ways my generation never had to be. They navigate a world of rapid economic change, political polarization, climate concerns, and digital disruption. Their challenges are greater, but so too may be their capacity for innovation.

Perhaps every generation believes the world was simpler in its youth. But I genuinely believe today’s graduates face pressures unknown to many of us decades ago.

Still, as I looked at my granddaughter proudly receiving her diploma, I felt hope rather than despair. Education remains valuable not merely as a pathway to employment, but as preparation for thoughtful citizenship, lifelong learning, and personal growth. The journey ahead may be uncertain, but uncertainty itself often creates new paths and unexpected opportunities.

For grandparents like myself, graduation ceremonies are more than academic milestones. They are moments that connect generations. reminders of where we came from, how society has changed, and what kind of future awaits those who follow us.

The diplomas handed out that day represented not guarantees, but possibilities. And perhaps in today’s complicated world, hope and resilience are the most important qualifications of all.

Meanwhile, here are some photos I took during the Graduation Ceremony. This was held at the Charles E Smith Gymnasium. The 5,000 seat capacity gymnasium was filled with parents, families. grandparents, friends and relatives of the 600 new Graduates. Carenna was one of the eleven acknowlegde and made to stand up during the ceremony because she was a Dean's scholar and graduated summa cum laude. 

Carenna first name was misspelled in the program (bottom left of page above)

The Proud Mama! 

Personal Note: After 24 years of absence from the Washington DC area, that trip back brought back pleasant memories of My FDA years. The trip wasn't as traumatic as I imagined it would be. Thanks to the pre-checked( TSA)  and pre boarding  and wheel Chair provided ( United Airlines) and the well- organized scheduling ( after graduation parties) by my capable traveling companion, my beloved Ditas,  my youngest daughter. 

Part 2 of this trip will include write-up and photos the After Graduation Dinners Parties hosted by Ella Lazarte, Ditas first cousin and Irene Bueno- Ditas college friend from UC Berkeley.     

Carenna Highlights on Elliot News/blogs:  

https://blogs.gwu.edu/elliott360/2026/05/05/senior-spotlight-carenna-katague-thompson/

  

  

Science, Politics, and the Soul of Federal Service

When I retired from Federal service in 2002 after years as a scientist at the FDA, I believed that one of America’s greatest strengths was its respect for independent scientific research. Regardless of which political party occupied the White House, career scientists at agencies like the FDA, EPA, NIH, CDC, and NSF generally understood their mission clearly: protect public health, uphold scientific integrity, and serve the American people.

Just recently, reading reports about the dismantling of independent scientific research at the Environmental Protection Agency saddens me deeply.

According to recent news reports, the Trump Administration has dramatically reshaped the EPA’s research structure. Scientists have reportedly been reassigned or encouraged to retire early, advisory boards reduced, and climate and environmental justice programs weakened. Critics fear the agency’s independent research arm is being dismantled after decades of scientific work insulated from political interference. The Administration strongly denies this characterization, arguing instead that the reforms are eliminating bureaucracy and ideological bias.

Regardless of one’s political beliefs, the larger issue extends far beyond the EPA.

Across the Federal Government, scientific and research institutions appear to be entering a period of uncertainty unprecedented in modern American history. The NIH faces grant freezes and funding controversies. The CDC has experienced staffing reductions and political scrutiny over public health data. The FDA, long considered the gold standard in drug regulation, has seen increasing political pressure regarding vaccines, public communications, and diversity initiatives. NOAA, NSF, and even climate research programs have become battlegrounds in America’s growing culture wars.

For scientists of my generation, this transformation is painful to witness.

When I joined the FDA in 1990 after leaving private industry, Federal service represented stability, professionalism, and dedication to evidence-based decision making. We certainly had political appointees and changing administrations, but career scientists were generally respected for their expertise. A chemist’s data were expected to remain data, not political ammunition.

America’s global leadership in medicine, environmental science, and biotechnology was built largely through publicly funded research institutions. NIH-funded laboratories helped drive medical discoveries. CDC epidemiologists protected the nation from infectious disease outbreaks. EPA scientists studied toxic chemicals and air pollution. FDA reviewers safeguarded the integrity of medicines entering the marketplace.

These agencies were never perfect. Bureaucracy existed. Politics occasionally interfered. But there remained a broad national consensus that scientific research itself should not become a partisan enemy.  Today that consensus appears weakened.

Some conservatives argue Federal science agencies became too ideological, too regulatory, and too closely aligned with progressive political agendas. Some liberals fear the current Administration is undermining objective science itself in favor of political loyalty and deregulation. Between these competing narratives stands a generation of career scientists wondering whether public trust in science can survive this era intact.

As a retired FDA scientist and immigrant who believed deeply in the promise of American public institutions, I still hope the answer is yes.

Science cannot flourish in an atmosphere of fear, political intimidation, or public cynicism. Neither can democracy. A nation as technologically advanced as the United States depends upon strong, credible, and independent scientific institutions.

In the end, diseases do not recognize political parties. Pollution does not care about ideology. Chemistry obeys neither Republicans nor Democrats.

Scientific truth remains scientific truth. And America ignores that lesson at its peril.

AI Overview:

The relationship between science, politics, and federal service involves a complex, often tense, interplay where objective research aims to inform policy, while political actors frequently seek to influence or control scientific findings for ideological purposes. This intersection is characterized by a "soul" of public service-a, "frank and fearless" advice model that is currently challenged by political pressure and efforts to "follow the science".

Key Aspects of Science and Politics in Government

• Political Interference: Research indicates that in recent years, political interference in federal science has expanded, particularly concerning climate change, public health, and environmental issues. 
• The "Apolitical" Ideal: Despite the influence of politics, federal service relies on a "soul" or core of objective, independent science to guide policy-making. However, historical, analyses show that even ostensibly "apolitical" science was often mobilized for ideological purposes during the Cold War.
• The "Follow the Science" Rhetoric: When politicians pass blame to scientists, they risk diminishing the role of civil servants and weakening the "frank and fearless" advice model.
• Scientific Freedom: A "soul" of science requires freedom of inquiry, which is threatened by efforts to make it serve political agendas.

Historical and Institutional Context

• The "New Science of Politics": The founders of the United States relied on a "new science of politics" to create a government based on human behavior, rather than mere dogma. 
• History of Policies: Science in the Federal Government A History of Policies and Activities by A. Hunter Dupree shows how, from the 1787 Constitutional Convention onwards, federal science has been inseparable from political and national interests.

Challenges and Current Trends

• Coercion and Retaliation: Recent surveys indicate that federal employees are concerned about potential manipulation of their work and retaliation when speaking out, affecting their ability to provide independent analysis.
• Scientific Dependence: Federal science policy often faces, "induced demand," where research funding depends more on institutional structures than on scientific need, leading to, a "dysfunctional system". 

Conclusion
The, "soul" of federal service remains a critical battleground. Maintaining an independent scientific capacity while navigating political priorities is essential for, a functioning democracy, requiring, both, the, protection, of, research, from, interference, and, a, commitment, to, evidence-based, policy,

Lastly, The broader concerns about cuts to federal science programs, reductions in grants, layoffs, and restructuring across agencies are being discussed widely in both academic and scientific communities.

Finally, here are the top five major news stories for Wednesday, May 13, 2026:

1. Trump Arrives in Beijing for High-Stakes Summit with Xi Jinping
   U.S. President Donald Trump arrived in China for critical talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping. The summit is expected to focus on trade tensions, artificial intelligence, Taiwan, and the ongoing Iran conflict. The visit comes amid rising inflation and global instability linked to the Middle East war. 
2. Iran War Continues to Shake Global Economy
   The conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States has entered its 75th day. Oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz remain disrupted, pushing oil prices above $100 per barrel and fueling fears of a broader economic crisis. Gulf states and global markets remain on alert. 
3. U.S. Inflation Surges to Highest Levels in Years
   New economic data show U.S. producer prices posted their largest increase in four years, driven by rising energy and supply costs connected to the Iran war. Financial markets are now expecting the Federal Reserve may raise interest rates again instead of cutting them. 
4. Russia Launches Major New Attacks on Ukraine
   Russia carried out a large daytime assault across Ukraine, prompting Poland to scramble military jets near NATO borders. Peace negotiations remain stalled as fighting intensifies in eastern Ukraine and along strategic regions. 
5. Pentagon Expands AI and Defense Contracts Amid Global Tensions
   The Pentagon awarded a major $500 million contract to AI company Scale AI, reflecting the growing importance of artificial intelligence in military and intelligence operations during rising international tensions. 

The Guardian

First Thing: Trump due in China for high-stakes summit with Xi Jinping

Today

Reuters

US producer prices surprise with largest increase in four years

Today

The Washington Post

The Latest: Trump arrives in China to meet with Xi in Beijing - The Washington Post

Today

Sky News

Ukraine war latest: Poland scrambles jets as Russia launches major daytime attack | World News | Sky News

Today

Personal Note: I will be out town beginning tomorrow until Sunday. Do not expect my daily postings and just to assure you I am ok.