Cravings Making You Crazy?

Overcoming the cravings that we get when we give up certain foods and substances is one of the hardest things to do. Whether you are giving something up for religious or health reasons, a few days into the process and terrible cravings, moodiness, headaches, stomach aches, and other symptoms might cause you to want to go back to the thing you gave up. It sure helps us relate to what drug addicts, alcoholics and smokers go through when they are trying to kick their habits. You'd think that giving up refined sugar and carbs would be so much easier than drugs - but it is not!

It is often not a question of willpower, rather of giving the body what it is screaming for. If your body is used to the substances that you are trying to eliminate, it will demand more of the same. And those demands become increasingly strident. However,if you stick to whatever you are doing to detox and avoiding giving in to the cravings, you will feel so much better once it is complete! Unfortunately, this is easier said than done. So what can you do to help overcome the cravings that you are experiencing while cleansing your system?

Here are a few suggestion:

1. Avoid places that have the things you crave.

2. Avoid TV shows and magazines that show the foods you are craving.

3. Drink a lot of water and fruit juice (if your detox program allows the juice) -
this will give you a full feeling and keep you hydrated (both of which help keep
the cravings from happening in the first place).

4. Call a friend when you are struggling - it keeps your mouth busy and gives you the
emotional support you need.

5. Do something to keep busy - read, go for a walk, garden - anything that will keep
you busy and will get you away from what you are craving.

6. Remind yourself of everything you have already accomplished and that your body is
well on its way to being cleaner, fitter and healthier. You don't want to
sabotage what you have already achieved.

While these strategies are not foolproof, you may find that one or two work for you. Remember that even though you are struggling now, once you body adjusts to it, it will be much healthier than it was before.

Happy Detox!

Green Tea - for Dandruff?

Want a natural remedy for dandruff that won't introduce harsh chemicals to your scalp and hair? Green tea is the answer! Yes, not only do the antioxidants in green tea help us fight cancer and detox fat cells, but it will naturally exfoliate the dry flakes which are the root of dandruff without dehydrating the skin.

By now, most of us have some green tea in our pantries. Just steep two bags of green tea in 1 cup hot water for 20 minutes to overnight. Once it has cooled, massage the strong tea into your scalp. Leave on for 30 minutes to an hour (if your hair is long, you can wrap it in a towel) and then rinse out - massaging scalp as you do to move the loosened flakes off of your scalp.

The Benefits of EFT

EFT is something that my chiropractors and natural health practitioners have used on me for years, but I just found a website that will teach me to be able to do this technique on myself - for FREE!

What is EFT? From an article by Marguerita Vorobioff: "EFT, or Emotional Freedom Technique, is an unbelievable breakthrough in therapy which is providing relief from pain, and helping to cure disease and emotional issues for thousands of people. Simply put, EFT is an emotional version of acupuncture without the needles, and it is performing miracles all over the world.

Our bodies energy meridian points were established thousands of years ago and have been used by many cultures for healing ever since then. EFT involves stimulating these meridian points by tapping on them with your fingertips. This tapping enables you to release stored trauma and negative emotions which disrupt your energy system, consequently bringing relief from pain on various levels.

A growing number of health practitioners, even in traditional medicine, now recognize the connection between our emotions and physical ailments, to the point where negative emotions are now considered to be the major contributor to most physical ailments. Instead of months or years of counseling, EFT can bring results in even one session. Positive results are literally experienced within minutes of beginning the tapping. This emotional clearing soon results in the fading of physical pain and discomfort. The symptoms may even vanish altogether. Emotional Freedom Technique also has the ability to change negative belief systems about ourselves that limit our potential and prevent us from living the life we deserve.

Once you have learned the EFT Technique you can use it anywhere for virtually anything. It is quick to learn and incredibly easy to use.

EFT can uncover some very surprising beliefs about yourself and your environment that you never knew you had. These revelations often enable a great deal of self- realization that can bring a rush of understanding, opening up a whole new and exciting world."

If you are interested in learning more about this easy and painless technique, click on the following link: EFT Tutorial.

Improve Your Skin - Sauna-style!

Your skin is the largest organ in your body. Everyday, it is exposed to different toxins, dirt, stress, and more. While there are many ways to detoxify your skin, according to the skin experts, a sauna session is one of the best ways to clean, detoxify, and relieve stress from your skin. Not only is this technique very advantageous for your skin, but it also provides many benefits to your general well-being.

Making a sauna session a part of your beauty regimen is definitely one of the most effective and relaxing ways to unclog your pores. It is very advisable to those who have dry skin, oily skin or those who are prone to various skin problems such as acne or ingrown hair. After a sauna session, your skin feels smoother and tighter. Using a sauna is natural as opposed to skin peels and other skincare regimens which may actually introduce harmful chemicals into your skin's pores. You can create your own sauna at home or you can find other establishments such as gym or day spa, who offer this kind of service.

After having a relaxing sauna session, you may choose to follow it up with a soothing facial or body mask to remove the dirt and toxins from the pores which are now open making the removal much easier. Another choice is to treat yourself to a massage as a way to achieve deeper removal of toxins, this time from the muscular level as well as the skin.

If you are reasonably healthy, there is no limit to how often you can enjoy the benefits of the sauna. However, there are those who should not use the sauna. These include people who are: suffering from asthma, are pregnant or have high blood pressure. As with anything, make sure to consult with your health care professional to ensure that you an safely enjoy the sauna.

Chocolate Facial Recipe

Got this great recipe for a Chocolate Facial from Carole Fogarty at the Healthy Living Lounge - one of my favorite blogs:

The Authentic Chocolate Facial Recipe:

5 tablespoons raw cacao (cocoa powder) (sold at most good health food stores.
3 tablespoons organic honey (the darker the better)
3 - 5 tablespoons plain organic yogurt
A splash or two of oatmeal to bind

(This can be used on your hair as well.)

Mix the honey and cocoa powder together adding as much oatmeal and yogurt as needed to create a smooth yet thickish paste. The wetness of yogurts can vary greatly and will affect the consistency of the facial, so start with 2 tablespoons and increase as needed.
Note about the honey: Not all honeys are the same. According to an Illinois Research Program, the darker the honey is, the less water and the higher the antioxidant, vitamin and mineral content. Honey is antibacterial and antifungal, which supports the healing process of cuts and wounds.
Warning: Chocolate facials are addictive so administer wisely. One per week is the recommended dosage.

Ion Detoxification - Does It Work?

Ion Detoxification is a process wherein a person immerses their feet in a Ion Detox foot bath of warm water while the Ion generator produces millions of positive and negative ions. These Ions flow through the body and then are supposed to attach themselves to oppositely charged toxins and draw them out of the body through the soles of the feet. Hmmmmm.
While I am a big believer in the benefits of detoxification (having personally experienced them), I have to admit that I have not yet tried one of these Ionic Foot Baths nor the detox pads for the soles the feet (however these are one my list - as soon as I finish the Master Cleanse).
I have heard from a colonic therapist, who has many years experience in the alternative health field, that she has witnessed the results of the detox foot pads herself and through many of her clients - and this even with regular colon cleansing and a very clean organic diet.
It seems to me that if the detox foot pads are able to pull heavy metals and other toxins out through the feet, then it stands to reason that the Ion Detox Foot Bath could produce the same results through a different modality. The process reminds me a little of a magnet, and we all know that magnets have been used as a healing tool for thousands of years. As far as I am concerned - anything that pulls the toxins out of our bodies and helps them to function as they are supposed to is a great thing.
My question to you is: have any of you tried either the Ion Detox Foot Bath or the Detox Foot Pads? What was your experience with them? Did you feel that you received better results from one than the other? Please leave any comments you would like to make below!

Is Stress Sabotaging Your Diet?

Stress can be making you fat. Yes that is right - you may be eating really healthy, and watching your caloric intake, but still be gaining weight - depressing isn't it? And the worst part is that when we gain weight, we add even more stress! So how do we break this vicious stress cycle?
We need to relax! Stop beating ourselves up because we only did 20 mins of cardio today instead of our usual 30 or because we had a piece of chocolate after that stressful meeting this morning. Love yourself! You still did some cardio and you ate a really healthy lunch. Focus on the positive! Be kind to yourself and give yourself an opportunity to relax and ease the stress.
How to relax when we have so much to do? Force yourself to carve out 20 - 30 mins and it will do you so much more good that spending that time mopping the floors!
During that 1/2 hour, do one of these things:

1. Take a hot bath. Hot baths are a wonderful way to release stress as you feel the warmth seep into your bones, and if you add some epsom salts or aromatherapy oil to the bath, you can detoxify and relax at the same time. (Note* Stress actually has been shown to create a toxic environment in our bodies, so anything we can do to ease this is beneficial!)

2. Meditate. If you have trouble focusing, try using a guided meditation CD (available at most book stores). Meditation slows down your breathing and your thinking - crucial to easing stress.

3. Take deep breaths. When we are stressed, we usually begin to rush and our heart rate goes up. By breathing deeply, drawing oxygen in through your nose and focusing on filling up your belly with it, then releasing it through your mouth - you are oxygenating your organs and expelling toxins and stress.

4. Exercise. When we are really stressed, sometimes it helps to go for a walk and appreciate nature, other times we may feel the need to punch something. Grab a pillow and beat it against your couch. Or put in a yoga or Pilates tape, letting the slow movements calm you.

5. Rest. Getting enough sleep is crucial to lowering our stress levels. If stress is keeping you up, drink some warm chamomile tea, take some melatonin, dab some lavender oil on your temples, put on a calming meditation CD (this works best for me).

Remember - the time you take for yourself now to lessen your stress level can save you lots of time later trying to undo the damage.
Love yourself!

Getting paid to talk about what is important to you?

A friend who had checked out my blog and enjoyed reading the information from the various posts, asked me whether I was getting paid to blog. "Paid to blog?" I said. "What do you mean?"
He then proceeded to give me the link to PayPerPost.com and told me that I could go to their site, sign up and then I would still get to choose the topics that I want to blog about but I would get paid for it at the same time! What an incredible opportunity!

So I went and checked it out. I found that PayPerPost had many posting opportunities available for products that I love and use on a regular basis and also many that I have been interested in trying out. I thought that this would give me the perfect opportunity to help the companies who make the products that make my life easier or better, by spreading the word; while putting a little extra cash in my pocket as well! There were opportunities available for every interest possible, and they were offered based on the type of blog you have. So rest assured that you won't hear about an engine additive for your car on this blog - as I know absolutely nothing about the pros and cons of one over the other!

If you think that this is something you might be interested in as well, just visit the PayPerPost.com site at: www.payperpost.com.

Cure for the Common Cold?

Many times over my lifetime I’ve had very ill family members I’ve cared for, but I did not get sick. However, when I have not taken good care of myself and allowed myself to get over-stressed or over-worked, I become an easy target for whatever is going around at the time. I have found that the best overall approach is to keep the body in top working order so the germs have no place to go.

Let’s start by understanding that a cold or a flu is simply a flushing of toxins from the system. The body grows toxic and weak and becomes a home for yeast, viruses, bacteria. These microbes release additional toxins as they reproduce. They damage the surrounding tissue creating more breeding grounds for microbes and that is how infection spreads.

The symptoms of fever, runny nose, etc., are created by the body’s immune response to both inhibit the growth and spread of the microbes to flush the toxins from the system and clean up the body’s environment so there are no more breeding grounds. Therefore, the goal is to help the body detoxify and flush out the irritation. The faster this happens, the sooner you will be well.

Here are some basic things to do for colds and other acute ailments:

When you feel a cold or any acute ailment coming on, stop eating. This is usually easy to do because we tend to lose our appetite when we are acutely ill. If you are hungry, limit your intake of foods to liquids preferably fresh fruit or vegetable juices or soup broths. Drink plenty of liquids to flush toxins.

Do something to open the bowels. Drink some fiber, psyllium husks, or take some other type of colon cleanse product to clean the toxins out of the colon. This will also speed the elimination of toxins from other parts of the body.

Get yourself to perspire. If you are not up to going to the gym to use their sauna or steam room, you can easily do a sweat bath at home. Get in a hot bath with 2 cups Epsom salts to 1 cup baking soda and soak for at least 20 minutes. You can even add a pure, essential oil such as Tea Tree oil, or eucalyptus, or lemon. After the bath, put on some warm sweats, go to bed and pile on some blankets, drink plenty of liquids, and sweat the cold out.

Do not use antihistamines, cough suppressants, etc. Instead, use an expectorant and decongestant to break up mucus and help the body get rid of it (there are many natural choices available at your local health food store). If you feel there is fluid in your lungs, take one High Potency Garlic tablet.capsule with each dose of of the decongestant/expectorant.

I’ve gotten over colds in as little as a few hours following these procedures. Sometimes it takes a little longer, but it has always shortened the duration and severity of the illness.

It is true that herbs have some direct antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral actions but more importantly, herbs have the capacity to help rebalance the terrain in the body so that it is no longer a host environment for the microbes. So this is important: select remedies based on looking at your body and how it needs to be strengthened and not by the organism that’s inhabiting it.

Finally, your best remedy overall is a healthy body. Make sure you are taking core nutrients such as a vitamin and mineral combination, a good-quality Omega-3, and an something to keep the immune system in good order (various herbal combinations are readily available at any health food store).

We live in a busy world and because of that, we don’t always eat the right foods or get the rest we need. While we can’t remove all the stressors from our life, we can help our body to better deal with the issues. This is where the core nutrients come into play. Keep the body pumped with nutrients and don't forget your children and spouse need these things too! And enjoy Great Health!

Weight Loss - Is It All In Your Head?

You can lose the weight - you just have to put your mind to it. How many times have you heard this from a variety of well-meaning people? Has it worked for you? If not, then maybe you need to change how you are interpreting what they mean.

Anyone who has been on a diet - and who hasn't been - knows that willpower is rarely the issue. When we want to lose weight, we are willing to do almost anything. It is when it doesn't work that we get discouraged and quit.

So what does it mean to "put your mind to it"? I think that it may better thought of in terms of the popular book "The Secret". If we get a picture in our minds (or posted on the refrigerator) of what we want our body to look like and then in our minds, we begin seeing ourselves looking like that - we are on the right track. When it may not happen as fast as we would like it to, we need to stay positive and realize that we are on the way! We have made the changes that we need to and it is only a matter of time until we get there. When we have the urge to give up, focusing on what we KNOW we are working towards and that we have already done the hard part - getting started - we will eventually make it!

Purified Water for Showering?

So we have done the Master Cleanse and are feeling better than we have since we were kids - now how do we keep this wonderful feeling of health and not get toxic again?

Obviously, we need to keep on top of what we are putting into our bodies. The more organic fruits & vegetables and high-fiber foods the better. We need to do what we can to keep our stress level as low as possible (yeah right!). Stay away from over-processed food and toxic chemicals whenever possible. Okay - we can do that - as long as we are aware of the chemicals. But what about the chemicals that we may not even realize we are being exposed to?

The air we breathe and the water supplied to our homes is suspect, although much improvement has been made over the last 20 years or so. We are definitely more conscious of the quality of water we drink. At home most of us drink treated/filtered water, and when we travel, we drink bottled water. But what about the water used in the stalls and restaurants when we order cold drinks or even fruit juices? Do they use tap water, bottled/treated water or boiled water? If we order hot drinks, we can at least assume that the water is boiled first.

And what about the water we bathe and shower with? Remember that the skin is the largest organ and it absorbs some of the water and whatever contaminants we “wash” it with. Not only that, but the heat from the shower turns the chemicals into vapors that we also breathe in - chlorine, pesticides, herbicides and whatever else is in the water. It would be great if every home could have an water treatment system that ensures the entire household water supply is clean. This not always being possible,
the use of a filter in the shower and for the water we drink and cook with is a step in the right direction.

Need to relax? Try Reflexology

Reflexology is an ancient healing art which naturally stimulates every part of the body. It can help to relieve tension, release toxins, improve circulation and bring the body back to a healthy state. This form of therapy has been around since 2500 BC in Egypt, Japan, India and China, but is only now gaining popularity in North America with many holistic spas introducing the service to their clients. England, China and Denmark recognize reflexology as a vital part of healing and it is covered by their health care systems.

Reflexology was introduced to North America more than 85 years ago by Dr. William Fitzgerald, a medical doctor who had been working in Vienna. He used the therapy on his patients and found it to be quite beneficial. At the same time, there were other medical doctors practicing in Germany and England. Dr. Fitzgerald had an assistant, Eunice Ingram, who was known as the "Mother of Modern Reflexology". Her book "Stories the Feet Can Tell through Reflexology" is an easy read and very informative. Reading about the therapy and actually experiencing it are not the same. Many clients fall asleep after the first 10 to 15 minutes of the session, though of course it impacts each person differently. Some clients may find themselves sweating, tired, more energized, or having a headache.

Reflexology is based on the premise that the body is divided into 10 zones, each one corresponding to a specific body part. By applying gentle pressure to all surfaces of the feet, it can bring much relief from pain, headache, digestive concerns, asthma, insomnia, stress and other concerns. When one part of the feet is massaged, it affects another. There are four main techniques applied and the treatment can last from 30 to 60 minutes.

Studies have shown that when a reflexologist was placed on staff by one company, employee productivity increased and the number of sick days used decreased. This seems like it would be great incentive for more companies to consider offering this service to their employees.

Getting Rid of the "Stuffed Turkey" feeling

Did you celebrate Valentine's Day with an lavish dinner accompanied by wine or champagne and followed by a decadent dessert? Did it leave you feeling like you just had a Thanksgiving dinner and you're not feeling quite so sexy today? Well here are a few things you can do to get rid of that uncomfortable feeling:

1. Have a fasting day today - whether it is a juice fast or a water fast - either one will give your digestive system the break it needs to get back on track.

2. Have a massage - this will get everything moving and will help you relax. Besides - who doesn't feel sexier after a massage?

3. Have a colonic treatment - this will help clear out all of the rich foods you over-indulged in and will help your digestive system get back to normal. Or use a gentle but effective oxygen-based colon cleanse.

4. WATER - lots of it! Whatever you choose to do - drink LOTS of water! This will help flush everything out of your system and get you back to feeling like yourself!

How Can You Tell If You're Toxic?

Are you reading lots of information about detoxing but aren't sure if this is something you need to do? An in-depth look into your lifestyle can reveal wonders. From where you live to what you buy, from what you do for a living to what you put in your body - your everyday choices often dictate your risk.

Dr. Holly Lucille, a naturopathic physician, provides a survey on www.KCRA.com which can give you some insight as to how toxic you might be. Dr. Lucille provides a 10-question quiz that can help you determine, based on these choices, where you fall within the different levels of toxicity- from non-toxic and on the right track to highly toxic and in need of some internal intervention.

We agree with the basic concepts in the article and think it is a great introduction to the idea of body cleansing. Remember that detoxification is an on-going process; a two-week cleanse is often only the starting point. The most important part of detoxification is to change your diet. Replace packaged and fast foods with whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables. Buy organic whenever possible. Also cut back on caffeine, alcohol and salt. In addition, you may need to make lifestyle changes in order to keep yourself free from toxins.

What Your Body Goes Through on the Master Cleanse

(Found online - cannot recall source)

Stage 1 (Days 1-2)
On the first day blood sugar level drops below 70 mg/dl. To restore the blood to the normal glucose level, liver glycogen is converted to glucose and released into the blood. This reserve is enough for half a day. The body then reduces the basal metabolic rate (BMR). The rate of internal chemical activity in resting tissue is lowered to conserve energy. The heart slows and blood pressure is reduced. Glycogen is pulled from the muscle causing some weakness. The first wave of cleansing is usually the worst.

Headaches, dizziness, nausea, bad breath, glazed eyes and a heavily coated tongue are signs of the first stage of cleansing. Hunger can be the most intense in this period unless the enema is used which quickly assists the body into the fasting state by ending digestion in the colon.

Stage 2 (Days 3-7)

Fats composed of transformed fatty acids are broken down and converted to glucose. The skin may become oily as rancid oils are purged from the body. People with problem-free skin may have a few days of pimples or even boils. A pallid complexion is also a sign of waste in the blood. Ketones are formed by the incomplete oxidation of fats. It is suspected that the ketones in the blood suppress the appetite by affecting the food-satiety center in the hypothalamus. You may feel hungry for the first few days of the fast. This effect is temporary. The desire to eat will disappear. Lack of hunger may last 40 to 60 days, depending on whether you are on water or juice.

The body embraces the fast and the digestive system is able to take a much-needed rest, focusing all of its energies on cleansing and healing. White blood cell and immune system activity increases. You may feel pain in your lungs. The cleansing organs and the lungs are in the process of being repaired. Periodically, the lymphatic system expels mucoid matter through the nose or throat. The volume excreted of this yellow-colored mucus can be shocking. The sinuses go through periods of being clogged, then will totally clear. The breath is still foul and the tongue coated. Within the intestine, the colon is being repaired and impacted feces on the intestinal wall start to loosen.

Stage 3 (Days 8-15)

On the latter part of an extended fast, you can experience enhanced energy, clear-mindedness and feel better than you have felt since childhood. On the downside, old injuries may become irritated and painful. This is a result of the body’s increased ability to heal during fasting. If you had broken your arm 10 years before, there is scar tissue around the break. At the time of the break, the body’s ability to heal was directly related to lifestyle. If you lived on a junk-food diet, the body’s natural healing ability was compromised.

During fasting, the body’s healing process is at optimum efficiency. As the body scours for dead or damaged tissue, the lymphocytes enter the older, damaged tissue secreting substances to dissolve the damaged cells. These substances irritate the nerves in the surrounding region and cause a re-occurrence of aches from previously injured areas that may have disappeared years earlier. The pain is good as the body is completing the healing process. The muscles may become tight and sore due to toxin irritation. The legs can be the worst affected, as toxins accumulate in the legs. Cankers are common in this stage due to the excessive bacteria in the mouth. Daily gargling with salt and water will prevent or heal cankers.

Stage 4 (Days 16-30)

The body is completely adapted to the fasting process. There is more energy and clarity of mind. Cleansing periods can be short with many days of feeling good in between. There are days when the tongue is pink and the breath is fresh. The healing work of the organs is being completed. After the detoxification mechanisms have removed the causative agent or render it harmless, the body works at maximum capacity in tissue proliferation to replace damaged tissue. While a short fast will reduce the symptoms, a longer fast can completely heal. Homeostatic balance is at optimum levels. The lymphatic system is clean except for a rare discharge of mucus through the nose or throat. After day 20, the mind is affected. Heightened clarity and emotional balance are felt at this time. Memory and concentration improve.

Stage 5 (Breaking the Fast)

The sticky, toxic, mucoid coating on the intestinal wall is loose, and the first meal frees it from the intestinal wall. Toxins enter the blood through the colon. The gallbladder dumps its waste in a heavy discharge of bile. This can cause an instant bowel movement upon eating followed by intense diarrhea. If the symptoms are too uncomfortable, an colonic/enema will help.

Master Cleanse/Lemonade Diet

A "new" diet called the Master Cleanse Diet says that its weight loss results are 'outstanding.' The Master Cleanse Diet (also known as the Lemonade Diet) is making big waves from health gurus to famous celebrities (most notably Beyonce Knowles) - but is the Master Cleanse Diet all its cracked up to be?

First of all - the Master Cleanse Diet is not new. It was developed in the 1970's and has recently experienced a new surge in popularity due to the results many celebrities have openly talked about. The diet is based on a mixture of lemon juice, cayenne pepper and maple syrup. While this may sound like an odd combination (who has maple syrup on a diet?), the results have been surprising.

Master Cleanser enthusiasts state that this particular mixture is the key to cleansing the blood, kidneys, liver, colon and intestines, as well as removing the long-term build-up of toxins in the body. In addition to the cleansing, many users report losing vast amounts of weight - some as much as 20 lbs in less than a week!

While the main premise of the Master Cleanse Diet is that it is supposed to level out the body while intensely detoxifying the system over a period of ten to 40 days, the weight loss is a pleasant additional benefit for many. Many have also claimed that they do not regain their weight after completing the cleanse, just a little water weight. This is believed to be due to the craving for healthier foods such as fruits and vegetables in an effort to maintain the "clean" feeling and high energy level they experienced as part of the cleanse.

For more information on the Master Cleanse Lemonade Diet visit www.master-cleanse-diet.net

Natural Sore Throat Remedies

Having a sore throat can be a real downer. Not only does it make you feel miserable, but it can seriously affect your ability to speak which can cause major issues - both at work and at home. Before we look at some of the sore throat remedies that are available, let's get an understanding of what a sore throat actually is.

A sore throat can be caused by either a bacterial infection or by a virus. This is quite an important distinction to make from the point of view of treatment. The infection can be present by itself or it may be part of a wider range of symptoms from a condition such as glandular fever.

Most of us will be familiar with the symptoms of a sore throat, which include pain and difficulty in swallowing. The tonsils maybe swollen and some people will be able to feel the (lymph) glands in their neck are swollen. This swelling is part of the body's natural defense system for fighting infection.

The way that we usually get a sore throat is by inhaling the bacteria or virus that causes the infection. It is common for these germs to be present in microscopic droplets in the air, such as when a person sneezes. It is also possible to pick up the infection if you touch your nose or mouth after touching an object shared with another person with the condition. Once you've been infected, it can take between two to four days before any symptoms are visible.

Natural treatments for sore throats are varied. At-home remedies include gargling with various items. Warm salty water as a gargle or powdered cayenne pepper with water have long been used to make a gargle for a sore throat, while food-grade hydrogen peroxide (found in the first aid section in a grocery store) has been proven to kill bacteria. While gargles have not been proven to cure the problem, they do ease the pain and as stated may help kill the bacteria that are causing the sore throat.

Sipping warm water with honey and lemon added has long been a favorite natural cure for people with sore throats. Honey has antiseptic properties and the Vitamin C in the lemon juice may help the body's immune system fight the infection. Sore throat lozenges are also often formulated with anti-bacterial agents (such as eucalyptus, honey and lemon) to fight infection. Some also have mild analgesic (pain-killing) properties. In this cold and flu season - it helps to know that we already have natural items in our homes that will help ease the pain of a sore throat.

Learning Reiki is a spiritual process, therefore, choosing the right Reiki teacher is a very important step to learning this healing technique. While there are lots of Reiki practitioners who are willing to teach Reiki, there are various factors which should be kept in mind when deciding which one to choose.

The first and foremost point is that the student and the Reiki teacher should be compatible. Make sure you talk to the Reiki master beforehand and that you are comfortable with him/her and that your ideas and philosophies match.

Make sure that there is respect between you and your Reiki teacher. They should respect you and your views. If this is not the case, search for someone else. You will only have the right atmosphere for learning if you have mutual respect for each other.

Before you choose a Reiki teacher, you should have a few Reiki session with them to get familiar with their working environment. You need to make sure that you are also comfortable with this environment so that you will feel open to the ideas you are learning.

And the last thing you should be aware of before deciding on a specific Reiki teacher is how long they have been practicing Reiki and whether they continue to study it on a regular basis. Regular practice of Reiki is required for transmitting the energy from the teacher to the student and is required for the proper growth of the student. Have fun!

Reiki . . . Is that a mushroom?

What is Reiki? Is that some obscure kind of mushroom? No - here is the definition of Reiki from Reiki Master Jo Ann Levine:

Reiki is an ancient art of healing through touch. A Reiki healer adjusts the energy of the client's body by laying on of hands in order to harmonize the phyiscal, emotional, spiritual and mental frequencies. Stress is released and replaced by a sense of increased vitality. A Reiki healing session creates a feeling of total relaxation and harmony, and simultaneously, renewed energy and strength. This relaxation method, performed in a comfortable and nurturing environment, enhances overall well-being.

"Hocus pocus" was a reaction that was given by a sceptic. "How can that work?" We are here to tell you it does - from personal experience! Waking up one morning with excruciating pain in my right hip and finding when I tried to stand up that the joint wouldn't support me - I made an immediate appointment with my chiropractor, thinking that an adjustment was what was needed.
While driving to the appointment, I tried to figure out what could have caused this: I was in my early 30's, in relatively good health, hadn't done any unusually strenuous activity, couldn't remember injuring it - what could it be? After being examined by the chiropractor and being adjusted and having the joint stimulated with mild electric shocks - the pain was better but the joint was still weak. My chiropractor referred me to a Reiki Master Jo Ann Levine, saying that it must be blocked energy. I had dabbled in alternative therapies for about 6 years, but even I was sceptical about this! However ... it is amazing what an incentive a good dose of pain is!
As I hobbled and shuffled my way up to the door, I remember praying feverishly for this to help ease the pain. I was taken into a relaxing treatment room with a fountain bubbling gently in the background, the blinds lowered and laid down om my back on a massage table fully-dressed (with the exception of my shoes). I was told to relax and just clear my mind and if I fell asleep that was just fine.
I did my best to clear my mind but was having a hard time not focusing on the pain. As Jo Ann worked her way down my body clearing my energy (hands hovering over my body but never actually touching it), it was easier and easier to relax. As her hands neared the area around my right hip, I was amazed to feel intense heat in that area. While it was intense, it was also extremely soothing - a little like being in a sauna - warm but the kind of warmth that gets deep inside your body and relaxes you.
At the end of my hour-long session, I was thrilled to find that when I stood up - not only was the pain gone, but the hip joint was feeling strong and healthy. I walked out as steadily as I normally do. What a difference from the hobble/shuffle I was doing on my way in!
Over the years, I have seen amazing results from Reiki healing - emotional issues cleared, major and minor (a wart on a young girl's foot died off through Reiki treatments) physical issues resolved - it is simply amazing! I have taken the courses to become a Reiki healer, and while I do not heal for a living - the results of working on myself and friends and family have been wonderful!

Learn to LOVE Yourself! Part 3

Keep your body toned and balanced. There is nothing more beautiful than a body that is toned and balanced. Notice we didn't say thin or having a "model-perfect" body - but toning the body you have! You can be have a toned body even if you have some extra weight you would like to lose! When you are toned - you move differently - you stand taller, hold your head higher, walk more confidently - and it shows! Muscles that are long and toned you will make your look and feel more gorgeous.

Here are some things you can do right now - wherever you are . . .

If you stand up straight and stretch your body upwards from the waist it will make you appear much slimmer and taller. Learn to walk elegantly by swinging your legs from the hips and placing one foot in front of the other as though you are following a straight line. Also the movement should be diagonal i.e. as your left arm swings forward, so should your right leg and as your right arm swings forward, so should your left leg. This will give a definite twist to your torso, look extremely sexy and do wonders for your confidence. Love the wonderful, amazing body that you have!

More About Learning to Love Yourself

Be kind to yourself. We are harder on ourselves than we would ever dream of being to anyone else! Would you tell a friend that they are not attractive because they don't have straight hair or rock hard abs? Then why would you tell yourself that?

Be your own best friend. Treat yourself with the same respect you would show to a best friend and set the same standards for yourself that you would urge them to strive for. By doing this, you will become someone you love and approve of. As you learn to love yourself and your body, you will find that others will do the same. It won't take long for other people to pick up on the fact that you respect yourself and that you expect others to do the same. That self-confidence is sexy and alluring to all - male and female, young and old!

The Candida Cure

As mentioned in the previous post ("What is Candida and do I have it?), we are back with a comprehensive protocol for ridding your body of the Candida overgrowth.
1st and foremost is your diet - what you eat!

You MUST eliminate:

* Sugar - all types: (Beyond the obvious - anything that ends in "ose" (lactose, dextrose,fructose, maltose, etc. Check all ingredient lists!) Just as when baking - sugar causes yeast to grow!
* Yeast products: Bread, cakes, pizza, croutons etc.
* Refined grains: White flour products, pasta, cornflour, cereals etc. Oatmeal is okay just don't sweeten it.
* Cured & smoked products: bacon, meats, sausage etc.
* Fermented products: vinegar, pickles, soy sauce, alcohol
* Caffeine: tea, coffee, chocolate, etc.
* Milk Products: yogurt and cottage cheese are acceptable (preferably organic!)
* Fruit: fresh, juice or dried (some fresh fruit can be added after three weeks under the direction of your therapist)
* Mushrooms
* Peanuts and peanut products

These items all help the Candida to thrive - just think of the yeast rising like a loaf of bread in your stomach if you are craving these foods! The short-term elimination is worth it!

Enjoy unlimited quantities of the following foods:

Onions and garlic: have properties which help kill off the Candida
Fresh vegetables and their juices: (Organic when possible and beware of carrot juice- it contains a lot of sugar) salads with lots of veggies are a wonderful choice
Rice cakes (make sure there are no sweeteners!)
Soy milk, butter, cottage cheese and yoghurt (Organic if possible and again check for sweeteners especially in soy milk and yogurt).
Herbs and Spices (remember no soy sauce or vinegar!)
Nuts and seeds (preferably raw and no peanuts)
Water and herb teas
Cold pressed oils
Brown rice and Oats (porridge makes an excellent breakfast – make with water and serve with nuts, seeds and yogurt)
Meats: (Unprocessed preferably organic or free-range)
Fish: (Preferably unprocessed - oily fish is best (i.e. Salmon)
Eggs, Lentils, Peas and Beans

2nd are supplements to help kill off the overgrowth of Candida:
You can go into any health food store and find a variety of supplements/cleanses to rid your body of the candida. Ask the director of the supplement department to go over the options with you and explain anything else they think you should know about the product. Regardless of which brand you choose, all should contain:
Oregano oil and/or peppermint oil: these oils are thought to prevent the overgrowth of candida. It is usually recommended for at least several months. A standard dosage is two capsules two times a day with water, in between meals. Pure volatile oils can be quite toxic in this amount so the liquid form of these oils should never be ingested, and the capsules should not be broken open before ingesting.
Acidophillus: The beneficial bacteria acidophillus is thought to control candida by making the intestinal tract more acidic, discouraging the growth of candida, and by producing hydrogen peroxide, which directly kills candida. These beneficial bacteria also help to restore the microbial balance within the digestive tract.
Fiber: One teaspoon to one tablespoon of soluble fiber containing guar gum, psyllium husks, flaxseeds or pectin can be mixed in an 8 oz glass of water two times per day on an empty stomach.
Enteric-coated garlic: Garlic capsules that have been enteric-coated to open when they reach the intestines are often be used in combination with the volatile oils. Once capsule two times per day taken with the enteric-coated volatile oil is a typical recommendation.
Other valuable ingredients are: caprylic acid from coconuts, oleic acid from olive oil, and pau d'arco.

3rd and found to be highly effective are a series of colonics. In this procedure (also known as colon hydrotherapy) warm water is introduced into the colon and washes out the candida that is in the large intestine. Not only does this clean out the large intestine but it also makes it easier for the rest of your body to rid itself of the candida through the proper diet and with the help of the herbal supplements to kill the Candida off. It is suggested to do 3 colonic sessions per week for two weeks for the best results.

Good luck to you on your journey to a healthier life - without the candida!

Learn to LOVE Yourself!

Do you get down on yourself? Worry that your abs aren't tight enough, your teeth aren't white enough or maybe your co-worker doesn't like you? Then it is time to start loving yourself!

Don't worry about how others see you or what they may or may not think of you. We know . . . easier said than done - but there are ways to overcome this. One way of stopping yourself from doing this is to try and focus on other people instead. If you take an active interest in other people, you won't have time to worry about what they are thinking about you. Not only will you not be worrying about what they are thinking, but if you are asking questions and listening to their answers, they will be flattered by your interest and probably be thinking kindly about you.

To learn to love yourself - do things that make you feel good - sit in a garden, close your eyes and feel the warmth of the sun on your face; watch a hummingbird or butterfly flit from flower to flower, watch small children play at the beach, feel the warm sand between your toes, treat yourself to some fresh flowers or a relaxing bath followed by a luxurious new lotion. See the wonder in the little things, surround yourself with things that make you smile!

You don't have to look like a stunning super model to love yourself (remember their images are usually airbrushed!). You just need to know that you know and like yourself for who you are, you are totally happy in your own skin and confident enough to let your natural beauty shine!

Your Liver and Its Job

Had to share this great information I came across today in a Southern California newspaper! It is the most comprehensive explanation I have ever read of the human liver, what it does for us and what we need to do to keep it healthy. I am adding it in it's entirety exactly as it was written (no need to tamper with something this well thought out and written!):

Of the primary detoxification organs (intestines, kidneys, liver and, to a lesser degree, skin, mucous membranes and lungs), the liver is our worker.

The liver plays several roles in detoxification: it filters the blood to remove large toxins, synthesizes and secretes bile full of cholesterol and other fat-soluble toxins and enzymatically disassembles unwanted chemicals. This enzymatic process usually occurs in two steps referred to as phase I and phase II.

Phase I either directly neutralizes a toxin or modifies the toxic chemical to form activated intermediates which are then neutralized by one or more of the several phase II enzyme systems.

Almost two quarts of blood pass through the liver every minute for detoxification. Filtration of toxins is absolutely critical, as the blood from the intestines contains high levels of bacteria, bacterial endotoxins, antigen-antibody complexes and various other toxic substances. When working properly, the liver clears 99 percent of the bacteria and other toxins during the first pass.

The liver’s second detoxification process involves the synthesis and secretion of bile. Each day the liver manufactures approximately one quart of bile, which serves as a carrier in which many toxic substances are dumped into the intestines. In the intestines, the bile and its toxic load are absorbed by fiber and excreted. Note: a high-fiber diet can help your body stay clean.

The liver’s third role in detoxification typically involves a two-step enzymatic process for the neutralization of unwanted chemical compounds. Phase I detoxification involves a group of enzymes which collectively have been named cytochrome P450. A significant side-effect of phase I detoxification is the production of free radicals as the toxins are transformed. Note: antioxidants are an important support for detoxification.

The most important antioxidant for neutralizing the free radicals is glutathione. Glutathione is also required for one of the key phase II detoxification processes. Providing the key nutrients to support both phases of detoxification is significant.

Among foods, the brassica family (cabbage, broccoli and Brussels sprouts), contains chemical constituents that stimulate both phase I and II detoxification enzymes. One compound is indole-3-carbinol, which is also a powerful anti-cancer chemical. It is a very active stimulant of detoxifying enzymes in the intestines as well as the liver.

Oranges and tangerines (as well as the seeds of caraway and dill) contain limonene, a phytochemical that has been found to prevent and even treat cancer in animal models. Limonene’s protective effects are probably due to the fact that it is a strong inducer of both phase I and phase II detoxification enzymes that neutralize carcinogens.

What can you do? Keep the volume of food down to a level your body can burn. Eat whole foods free of preservatives and chemicals. Make sure you have enough fiber in your diet.

And for extra quick results, take a Liver Detox Aid.

Watch a video - Help find a cure for Autism!

What a wonderful thing! The music group "Five For Fighting" has created a song and video to help raise funds for Autism awareness - a disease that is unfortunately more and more common. Please click on this link to View Five for Fighting's video to raise money for Autism Cures. Thank you!

What is Candida and Do I Have It?

Candida albicans, is a yeast that normally lives harmlessly in the body, but can become a problem when it is allowed to grow out of control. Usually the amount of candida albicans is controlled by beneficial bacteria in the body and the immune system; however, if the beneficial bacteria are killed by antibiotics, or if a person's immune system becomes weakened, candida can grow unchecked and cause a variety of symptoms. Here is a partial list (from altmedicine.about.com):
* Tired or lethargic
* Poor memory
* Feel drained, depleted or exhausted
* Numbness, burning, tingling
* Stomach pain
* Joint pain or swelling
* Muscle aching or weakness
* Constipation, diarrhea, bloating, gas, or belching
* Bothersome or persistent vaginal itching, burning, or discharge
* Prostatitis
* Erectile dysfunction
* Loss of sexual desire
* Endometriosis or infertility
* Menstrual irregularity or cramping
* Anxiety attacks or crying
* Cold hands and feet, feel chilly
* Irritable or shaking when hungry

So what can cause the candida to overpower the beneficial bacteria? Some things are:
* Use of antibiotics
* Use of oral contraceptives, and other medications
* High-sugar diets
* Pregnancy
* Diabetes
* Stress
Worried that you may have an overgrowth of candida (also known as candidiasis or yeast infection)? The following link will take you to a quick test to check Candida Quiz, check back tomorrow for a comprehensive protocol for ridding your body of this harmful invader (including diet and easily obtained supplements).

HGH - The Fountain of Youth?

Over the past couple of years there has been an explosion in the popularity in hormone replacement therapy. Hormone replacement therapy offers some interesting benefits for aging individuals and even high level professional athletes. HGH (Human Growth Hormone) is probably the most popular hormone replacement at this point in time. It offers the most benefits but is also the most expensive.

The benefits of HGH for the aging individual is obvious. According to HGH research, at age 21 the normal level of circulating HGH is about 10 milligrams per deciliter of blood. By the time the individual reaches age 61, its decreased 80%, down to only 2 milligrams. Growth hormone is directly responsible for the growth (and replacement) of cells, bones, muscles and organs, and as the amount of HGH in circulation begins to be reduced, the aging factor begins to set in.

In clinical studies published by the New England journal of Medicine, doctors have observed the reversal of the aging process from 10 to 20 years in patients who received HGH injections. HGH injections have allowed users to lose fat, build muscle mass, improve sexual performance, remove wrinkles, eliminate cellulite, and increase immune function. The health benefits associated with HGH supplementation have been incredible.

HGH is what can be considered a "Master Hormone." It is secreted by the pituitary gland and is responsible for directly and indirectly balancing the body's critical hormones, and it even improves brain functions. The brain and nervous system are made up of cells called neurons. And though they are permanent and never re-grow, HGH can stimulate their repair and rejuvenation. HGH also affects the proteins produced in the brain for storing our memories. Therefore learning, memory and intelligence all depend on adequate supplies of growth hormone.

HGH protects cells. Antioxidants such as Vitamin C and Vitamin E can remove oxygen-free radicals and keep the proteases (destructive enzymes that cause cell damage) from becoming active. Human growth hormone acts directly on the proteases. It activates a cellular defense force called protease inhibitors, which prevent free radicals from doing their deadly work. HGH can not only further what antioxidants do, but also go further and do what antioxidants cannot.

In a 10-week human study conducted by the Life Center for Health, a third party medical facility, on male and female test subjects ranging in age from 42 to 86 years of age, levels of IGF-1, Testosterone, DHEA, HDL and Lean Muscle Mass were significantly increased, while levels of LDL, body fat, Triglycerides and Cholesterol were significantly decreased. In addition, hair color was restored in several test subjects along with new hair growth. Anaerobic threshold and grip strength also increased significantly. Also noted in the study were weight loss and increased sexual stamina in test subjects as mature as 86 years of age. Liver regeneration was evidenced by the significant and almost complete fading of "age spots" on the hands of several test subjects, and cardiovascular health was improved in one test subject with Atrial Arrhythmia. These results are all markers of regeneration and a return to a more youthful state of health.

Organic Foods - Are they really necessary?

So you have changed your eating habits and instead of having a cheeseburger and fries, now you are having a salad with a reduced fat dressing and drinking water instead of Coke. You are doing the right thing, made some healthy choices - but your friend says it is not enough! She says you need to be eating organic fruits, veggies and even meat! And you question that - why spend the extra money, isn't it much harder to find, and is it really necessary?
The answers may surprise you! Let's address the "Why" first . . . Remember when you were young and strawberries and grapes were only available during the summer months? As a matter of fact, that first basket of strawberries came to symbolize the start of summer. But things have changed - I'll bet that if you go into the grocery store today (in January - the dead of winter) you will find strawberries, raspberries and possibly even peaches!
What has changed? Why are these "summer" fruits ripe now? Sure there have been lots of agricultural advances but then there have also been lots of advances in the scientific world as well. Scientists have discovered how to use certain chemicals to keep food from spoiling and to keep it looking good (have you ever seen a red apple with a red stem? They don't grow that way - they are sometimes sprayed with a red dye.).
What about that lettuce you are making a salad from? Run a sink full of cold water and put the lettuce leaves in to wash them - what happens to the water? Do you see bubbles? Does the water feel different? Maybe a little soapy? That is caused by the chemicals - pesticides, herbicides and others - that the grower has sprayed on so that the end product will be appealing to you!
Unfortunately, our bodies weren't designed to deal with all of these chemicals. On the outside, we can see that our skin is looking a little sallow and maybe we are dealing with more breakouts (acne). Or maybe we constantly have bad breath and our body fluids are not pleasant-smelling. Inside our organs aren't functioning as they should because they have been stressed trying to rid our bodies of the toxins from the chemicals. When our organs are over-stressed - disease can occur. Gallbladder removal, liver disease, diabetes (due to an improperly working pancreas), heartburn, IBS, these and many more are possible issues that we may be faced with. Eating organic eases the load our organs carry.
As more and more people are demanding organic foods, they have become much easier to find. Most grocery stores carry organic produce and some stores (e.g. Whole Foods, Jimbo's, Henry's, Trader Joe's) specialize in organic foods. In addition, most farmer's markets and some of your local farmers will offer organic produce as well. There are some foods that tend to contain more chemicals than others. The following link will tell you the 17 Most Important Foods to Eat Organic.
While the cost can be an issue, if you look around there are organic bargains everywhere! Costco carries a 5 lb bag of organic baby carrots for $4.49, while in the grocery store we are charged $5.00 for 5 lbs of non-organic carrots. Our local farmstand carries red leaf, green leaf and romaine lettuce for $0.75 per head while we are charged between $1.49 and $1.99 for non-organic lettuce in the grocery store! In-season organic items (currently: broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and squash) are often to be found for cheaper than you pay for non-organic at the grocery store.
Not convinced? Try eating an organic apple and then compare it to non-organic apple! We think you will find the organic apple is crisper and has a better flavor (and you aren't ingesting all of the wax that is coating the mass-produced apples!). Or take a leaf of organic lettuce and compare it to the non-organic. Not only will the water you wash it in not become soapy, but you will find that your salad is much crisper (we've talked to small children who have noticed the difference!). But don't take our word for it - try it yourself!