UNDERSTANDING SUPER FOODS IF YOU ARE IMMUNE COMPROMISED

This is an area where this is particular confusion and misunderstanding. I myself fell into the rationale that the more super-foods and Immune boosting I took and could get in my body--the better I would feel. I ate Cacao for breakfast, put Maca, Goji berries in every smoothie, ate gooseberries and shizandra berries in my salads....I think you get the idea. And while I Absolutely believe in the amazing and powerful effects of this super foods there was piece I was failing to look at. What does IMMUNE COMPROMISED mean and imply?? Usually it is described as an immune system that is attacking itself thus causing it to go haywire and cause all kinds of health maladies within the body. So when we take IMMUNE ENHANCING herbs or foods, if our immune system if not functioning properly and we are over stimulating it with SUPER FOODS and SUPER CHARGED immune boosting things, it can cause of the immune system to destroy itself even further and cause more harm than good. I always wondered why at times rather than feeling better and full of energy, that in fact I would feel overtaxed or run down and I NEVER put the two together. I always blamed it on some type of detox reaction or thought it was just the way I was feeling on that particular day.

Then one day it dawned on me....holy shit.....could the MACA or CACAO be over stimulating me???

I want to be really, really clear about this, I think Peruvian, Amazonian Herbs, Cacao and the like are totally amazing. I have them in my cupboard and still used them in moderation. My point is that rather than taking immune boosting herbs, people with chronic Immune suppression need to be very careful about running their immune systems more ragged in taking such herbs or superfoods. We need more supportive herbs and herbs that can balance our immune system without throwing it full throttle into overdrive. For my clients with out immune issues, I tell them sure go ahead and load up of the super foods in their diet but always be mindful to make sure they aren't overdoing it. If their sleep is off, or they are feeling anxious or run down- perhaps lay off them for a few days or a week and see if it subsides. Always trust your body and what it is telling you. No matter what the package says the benefits might be, the proof is in the pudding and not in the eating. Bye bye Beauties. xoxoxox

PLEASE TAKE A PART IN THIS BLOG, TAKE MY POLL

I want to keep on doing what I'm doing so I'd like to know what you want me to write more about. Please take my short poll and vote on the subjects you'd like to see more of. If there is something you would like me to write about that is not listed please comment on this blog and I will get right on it. Thanks for your time, it's good for me to know that there are people out there are listening. Bye bye beauties

ROBERT YOUNGS ANTICANCER SOUP

Now that I am on this intense cleanse, it has caused to to dig into many of my oldies but goodies recipes. One book that I receive much inspiration from is the book the PH MIRACLE, by Robert. O Young. I recalled one recipe called ANTICANCER SOUP that I just came across and wanted to share it with you as it can also be used similarly as the DETOX DIVA's CLEANSING AND HEALING SOUP.

2 cups hotwater

2 green onions,cut

2 Tbs caraway seed

2 carrots

2 slices each of purple and green cabbage

2 broccoli stalks

1 red pepper sliced

3 Tbs fresh dill weed

Soak caraway seeds in pure distilled water 24 hours before use, then pour off liquid. Put finely cut broccoli florets and thinly sliced, peeled stems in a pot with a cover. Grate cabbage and carrots over broccoli and add caraway. Blend onions in 2 cups hot water and pour broth over veggies. Cover and let steam 5 minutes, garnishing with dill and sliced red pepper. Prep time 20 minutes

DETOX DIVA'S FASTING & HEALING SOUP

This soup has been my savior over the last 2 weeks as I am still on my extended cleansing diet. It is also good if you are stressed, tired or run down with a cold or flu and is packed with anti-fungal properties.

2-3 whole cloves of garlic

2 Tbs of fresh organic cilantro

1 large onion

2-3 Tbs, fresh diced ginger

3 Tbs yeast free instant vegetable broth

2-3 quarts filtered water

1 organic cucumber

1-2 organic carrots ( optional )

1 small head cabbage

Crush garlic cloves and set aside. Put whole onion in water in a deep pan, simmer until is transparent ( approximately 1 hour). Add garlic and vegetable broth. Slice cucumber and any of the optional veggies you are using and add to soup. Simmer 15 minutes, then add Ginger, cilantro and a dash of celtic sea salt to taste.

I suggest making a double portion of this and having ready and available all day especially if you are a cleansing diet or trying to alkaline the blood. This is also a fantastic soup to drink for 2 days prior to your colonic treatment. Enjoy

A BIZARRE DIAGNOSIS FROM A MEDICAL INTUITIVE

As you all know, I have been very vocal about my struggles with my LYMES DIAGNOSIS and MERCURY OVERLOAD as I have made my health journey and treatments a very public affair in hopes of help anyone out there who is suffering and help point them in the right direction. A new diagnosis came through over this past weekend that really struck a cord within me and pretty much floored me. I was in lying in bed on this past sunday thinking of new topics for my blog and I saw an out of area phone number which I almost chose to ignore, ( assuming it was a telemarketing thing)...thankfully I picked up the phone and the man on the other end identified himself as "ANTHONY" and proceeded to tell me he was a medical intuitive and that we received a call from my cell phone number in april 2007, almost 3 YEARS AGO. He went on to explain that he had been in a serious accident and was in a coma for a year and miraculously survived and was just getting back to his medical intuitive practice and looking over his piles and piles of client files and contact info. He told me out of literally hundreds of contacts of both old and new clients- that we was clear that my cell phone number, which had no name attached to it- was in fact a number that needed to be contacted immediately. So he followed spirit and called that number to see who was on the other line. Voila, it was me. I had remembered that I was referred to a medical intuitive back then when I received my Lymes diagnosis and had reached out to a man named ANTHONY, but he never responded. And I know why.

To make a very long and interesting story short. 3 years later, while feeling better and stronger than when I was diagnosed- many of my symptoms still remain a mystery to me and there are day where I struggle with finding THE ANSWER. And so this call from the intuitive, although completely unexpected, and 3 years LATE, still was very welcomed by me. In fact, I had been meditating and praying to God and the universe to help lead me to the way of even deeper healing and greater health and vitality and so my prayers were heard and answered. Anthony offered me that while I was given the diagnosis of lymes disease, he was told from spirit that it was NOT LYMES I was dealing with at all. He explained that while I may of gotten lymes along the way that- in fact it was a mutant form of EBSTEIN BARR VIRUS that was actually making my body so sick for all those years and it was the virus that gave me a positive LYMES TEST and many of the other symptoms. I was floored and relieved to hear this and it actually everything started to make a lot of sense. I did test positive for Ebstein Barr along the way but my doctors just kind of glossed over that fact by saying that most people have a positive ebstein barr titer and not to worry about it. This in fact is true for many people as Anthony explained, but for me he believes the stain I have came from a vaccine that was started in MAY 1969, (Hello, that was the year I was born exactly- MAY 15, 1969, could my timing be any better???? LOL) This strain mutates and for many individuals, like myself cause a whole host of health maladies and can even turn in MS if it is not dealt with and eradicated.

As for my diagnosis and treatment plan, I will save that for my new posting. He gave me a VERY CLEAR picture of how the virus works and how it has effected my body, spleen, liver and other parts of my body. He also gave me a very concise and strict protocol to help my body get rid of it. Lets just say bye bye to GLUTEN & ANY FORM OF SOY or DAIRY forever. He said the virus has been feeding on those things and keeping it alive. And other I have had a good diet, he saw I detox diet that has NO SALT, GRAINS and LIMITED PROTEIN for a period of time while I starve the virus out of my body. More to come, but I will do ANYTHING to have my health at 110%. All the money and fame in the world is worth NOTHING with out health and vitality. I WANT TO BE RICH NOT ON MONEY BUT HEALTH. BYE BEAUTIES

And yes, this proves to be valuable information and Anthony is able to help me, you can be damn well sure I will be sending anyone and everyone to him. At this point, I find him brilliant but I am reserving any claims until I have stuck with the diet and recommendations for at least a few weeks. I will post email and contact info at such time. I will always share my information with you, always....anything I can do to make a difference in your life and empower you to have the life you want, including wellness!!

I DARE YOU TO GO GLUTEN FREE FOR ONE MONTH

If you've ever polished off a fresh baguette or fought over that last slice of deep dish pizza, you've eaten gluten. It's the healthy plant protein found in several grains that makes bread light, chewy and irresistible. So you'd think it would be everybody's favorite nutrient...NOPE. Instead, shunning gluten which is found in wheat, rye, barley and often oats--has been the craze diet of todays times. Why?? Lots of people, myself included swear they feel 10 times better when they stay away from gluten. Celebs, Gwenyth Paltrow, Jenny Mccarthy to name only a few are all gluten free. Also for certain people avoiding gluten is a medical must. So could all those stomach cramps be caused by your morning bagel? Should you try going gluten free?? Here's the real whats what on that pesky gluten.

SOME PEOPLE CAN'T TOLERATE GLUTEN: Period. In them gluten triggers an immune system attack on the small intestines, also known as celiac disease. This disorder isnt all that common, but it gaining in numbers over the last decade. 97% of the people with celiacs go undiagnosed. Symptoms range from gas, bloating and fatigue to seizures and depression. Over time, celiac disease can screw up digestion to the point of malnutrition. Self test kits are sold on line and can provide clues and blood tests are the next test, but a definitive diagnosis requires a biopsy.

SOME PEOPLE ARE SENSITIVE TO GLUTEN: But "gluten sensitivity" is a medical grey area. There are no tests for it and although problems-migraines, skin breakouts and even autism have been blamed on it, doctors haven't found a clear link. If you suspect you are sensitive, before you put your toaster and pasta machine in ebay, try going gluten free for a few weeks to see if your symptoms improve. Add a bit of gluten back into your diet and if they return, you are on to something.

HOW TO TRY GOING GLUTEN FREE: Most suspicious foods are easy to spot. They include anything with wheat, bread, muffins, cookies, most baked goods--as well as foods made with several other grains: barley soups, ham on try, anything with oats. But there are many hidden sources too. gluten is used in soy sauce, beer, hot dogs, some icecremes, carmel flavoring, sausages and foods seasoned with MSG. FYI, its even used in adhesives on stamps and envelopes. So take a few other steps.

Read the fine print on labels. Switch pasta to rice. Wheaties to Corn flakes. CousCous to quinoa, waffles to buckwheat ( which is gluten free believe it out not).

Give waiters the third degree. Ask if sauces, meat and fish are made with wheat flour or bread crumbs. Ask if there is thickener in the soups. If the salad dressing is bottled or there is carmel flavoring.

Make your favorite brownies using half rice flour and half tapioca flour. Dare your friend to know the difference!!! Then see how you feel. If your body has happily shifted into a new a and healthier gear, ENJOY the gluten free lifestyle. If you are anything like the results Ive experienced along with hundreds of my clients--you will feel 10 years younger and feel lighter than ever. What do you have to lose??? Let me know how you feel-- Id love to know

VALENTINES DAY LENTILS STEW, YUM

Although my beautiful husband and vegan chef will be working Valentines at ION to prepare delicious & sublime food for all you love birds, I will be at home perfecting my lentil stew which will keep me warm and satisfied until he gets out of work. This recipe serves 6 and is hearty and simple to make. It also keeps well in the fridge for 4 or so days.

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

1/2 teaspoon paprika

1/2 teaspoon celtic sea salt

1/4 ground cumin

1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

1/2 teaspoon olive oil

2 garlic cloves finely chopped

2 large onions cut into chunks

2 celery stalks, diced

1 carrot sliced

1 potato, cut into chunks

1.3 cup shoyu

4 cups vetable broth

3 tomatoes, cut into chunks

1 1.2 cups brown organic lentils

2 slices of your favorite bread, eziekiel works great- cubed

Extra virgin olive oil

Combine the garlic powder, paprika, salt, cumin, oregano and basil into a small bowl. HEat the oil in large soup pot over medium -high heat and add the garlic, onion, celery, carrot and potato. Stir in half the seasoning mixture and the shoyu. Cook, stirring frequently for 7 minutes or until the onions are tender.

Add 5 cups of water, the broth, tomatoes and lentils. Bring to boil over high heat then reduce the heat and simmer with the lid askew for 30 minutes. Add remaining seasoning mixture and cook for 20 minutes longer or until the lentils are soft. Meanwhile, pan roast the cubed bread in a dry skillet until nice and toasted. Ladle stew in bowls and garnish with croutons and a drizzle of olive oil.. Voila. Happy VDAY BEAUTIES

INTENSIVE AT ANN WIGMORES IN PUERTO RICO

WWW.ANNWIGMORE.ORG.

For anyone looking to learn more about the principles of Raw food, Sprouting, Fermentation, Acid/Alkaline diet and Healing through lifestyle and food- I highly recommend checking out the above link. I have had the pleasure of completing the intensive program at Optimum Health Institute ( another Wigmore's retreat) in San Diego Ca. I also plan on doing a further training/ cleanse at the Puerto Rico location in the spring for my 41st birthday. The retreat in April will be held on the island of Vieques Puerto Rico, however most other retreats are held at the Aquada location on the main island of Puerto rico. There is limited space for the one in April so check into sooner than later on the website. The prices will go up dramatically after Feb 2010, so it is best to prepay now and get the old pricing and they will allow you to book it at the lower price for a future date.

Location and Accommodations:

Located on the beautiful western shore of tropical Puerto Rico, the ocean is just 50 yards from the property. The school is a lush and lovely environment for balancing the body, mind and spirit. You will feel the dramatic difference that the Living Foods Lifestyle can make for your body as you awaken to fuller self awareness. The warm family atmosphere and caring staff provide and practical, hands on learning experience. The program empowers you to take the lifestyle home and continue your growth and self healing. The institute is a non profit center founded in 1990 by the late Dr. Ann Wigmore. The core staff worked closely with her and carried forth her teachings with enthusiasm, dedication and integrity. I personally encourage everyone to at least research the center and see if it strikes a cord anywhere inside of you. It did for me and I have such gratitude for the gifts and knowledge I received at my time there. Adios Mi amores

Located

FUTURE RETREAT IN PUERTO RICO: AND LIFE FOR ME ON A PERSONAL NOTE

The Detox Diva will be away until the 2 nd week in Feb, resting, reflecting and scoping out a tropical location for future healing retreats for the spring 2010. Along with John Odlum from "Essence of Being", we are actively looking for the perfect spot for a 5 - 7 day retreat in Puerto Rico or Culebra which is located a few hours off the coast. We plan on doing a combination of training, education on detoxification and plant & tree medicines, detox and yoga/meditation, with organic food included for the retreat stay. ( of coarse I will be bringing my hubby along and he will be preparing local, organic foods, live foods, and juices.)

Much more to come about this but it is extremely exciting and I cannot wait to report back with every little morsel of info.

On a very personal note, my husband Mark Shadle and I regretfully would like to share the news that we suffered a "MISSED PREGNANCY" this past week and we were very shaken by the experience. We had found out recently that we were eight weeks along, however a few days later after having an ultra sound, that the baby's heart had stopped beating. Unfortunately, this also meant because the baby was still inside of me, we were forced into making a decision about what to do. Most woman who miscarry, their bodies take care of things naturally and they pass the pregnancy themselves. In my situation after meditating and talking to a midwife I made the decision to have a D & C so that I can help my body to heal and prepare itself to have a healthy pregnancy in the near future. If I choose to wait, it could take several weeks or even months for my body to signal itself to move fetus out of my body however in the mean time, I will not be able to regain ovulation or become pregnant until that happens and more importantly while the unhealthy baby is still inside me and not living, my body is still tricked into thinking it is still pregnant and I have to go through the same emotions and side effects of a regular healthy pregnancy...which is something both physically and emotionally I cannot bear right now. So, after hearing all the pros and cons of both sides ( natural or medical procedure), my husband and I decided to have the procedure and move forward with a positive attitude and belief that this is what god intended for us. We are sad but strong in out belief that that soul was not ready to come into this world and natural selection was in perfect and divine order. Don't get me wrong, we went through all the emotions, some of which will continue to haunt me every evening before I sleep and every morning before I wake....but ultimately I know that it is absolutely perfect the way that it is and that God and spirit has a bigger plan for us. We plan on taking a few weeks off, allowing my body to heal in the glorious sun and healing oceans and when we return start conscious conception sometime in the early spring when my body is fully ready. There have been so many invaluable gifts and blessing I have received through this "very emotional ordeal" and the most wonderful one has been to connect with some many amazing and powerful woman who had shared similar experiences. Once I opened up about my personal story, literally hundreds of woman contacted me to share their journey with me and how we are all one in this human experience. No one is immune to going through this trials of life. No matter matter how rich, how healthy, how educated, how fortunate someone's karma in life has been, it doesn't exclude you from very real human experiences. If you have shared a similar experience I would love to hear from you and also send a big heart felt hug to you. Until later beauties

BUYING LOCAL IS YOUR HEALTH CARE PLAN

STAY TO THE OUTER AISLES AS MUCH AS POSSIBLE!!!!!!!! BUY LOCAL, BUY ORGANIC and invest in your future health. THAT IS YOUR HEALTH CARE!!

First let me encourage each and every one of you to go out to your local community and find the the movie FOOD INC. It is being shown across the country in libraries, health food stores, small screening houses, independent film venues and many other places. Run, don't walk please. Do yourself and you loved ones a favor and educate yourself about where exactly your food comes from and where the ingredients come from. It focuses on the raw truth about factory farming, GMO, genetically modified soybeans and the MONSANTO monopoly and every aspect of the food industry to reveal to the consumer what it is they are buying into when they "think" they are being given many diverse options at the grocery store when in actuality there are only a few key players that monopolize the entire industry and the crude politics behind it. Even for a highly conscious person like myself who has done her homework and feels like an educated consumer- it was EYE OPENING on so many levels. We need to become more connected, more aware, more educated, more armed with knowledge, more sensible to arm ourselves with whatever it takes to make better choices for our health, our family's health and to take back our RIGHTS to have healthy, nutritious and wholesome foods that actually are GOOD FOR US. Its our GOD given rights, isn't it???????? You would be surprised just how many of our rights are violated and imposed upon on the mere fact that our choice are being limited, even though the impression is that we have many. KNOWLEDGE=TRUTH

I could go on for days about this but I will just repeat my plea, if you haven't seen the movie, PLEASE DO. Although I received many messages from the movie, the most prevalent one for me is the grave importance of buying local and supporting your local farmers and community. Knowing the integrity of where your food come from is a priceless gift. People think they are SAVING money by buying cheaper items, non organic , non GMO ect. But in the end the price is actually much higher especially when the cost is your health. In the movie they showcased an ethnic family in California who live on a very tight budget. They explained how they with extra money that have they end up buying the BUY ONE GET ON FREE POTATO CHIPS instead of buying a head a broccoli because they can get so much more food for their money if they stick with the sale items and jumbo sizes at the grocery store. Yet, this same family pays out of pocket over 200 dollars a month for the diabetes medication to keep the father from getting sick. It is so backwards. These poor people are just caught in the vicious web of deception. When is a healthy head of organic broccoli going to be just of affordable and accessible as crap packaged junk which is the reason people end up with diabetes to begin with??????????

If any one has seen this movie I would love to hear from you and any comments that you may have.

THAT GLUTEN IS SNEAKY

That's a fact, gluten is one sneaky pesk. Hidden gluten can be found in gravy, broth, bouillon, soy sauce, salad dressings, cured meats, sausage, hot dogs, burgers, flavored and herb cheeses, spice blends including curry powder, dry mustard, canned and prepared soups, tomato paste, sweeteners, brown sugar, beverages, flavored coffees, herbal teas ( watch for barley), roasted, flavored nuts, jerky, flavored yogurts and puddings. some chocolate, instant coffee, flavored vinegars, cooking wines, flavored liqueur, wine coolers, some ice cremes and frozen desserts. Always read labels or call the manufacturer.

GLUTEN is the elastic protein in the grains: wheat, rye, barley, graham, semolina, bulgar wheat, spelt, farro and kamut. Commercial oats also contain gluten due to cross contamination in processing.

Recipes that use flour ( bleached whie flour, whole wheat flour, cracked wheat, barley,semolina, spelt, farro, kamut or vital wheat gluten are not gluten free.

Semolina, spelt and whole grain pasta, including cous cous is not gluten free

Beer, ale, malt flavorings and barley malt are not gluten free

Recipes calling for bread crumbs, breaded coating, flour dredging, bread, flat bread, croutouns, bagels, croissants, flour tortillas pizza crust, graham crackers, granola, cereal, wheat germ, wheat berries. cookie crumbs, pie crusts, crackers, pretzels, toast, wraps, or pita bread is not gluten free.

The vegan protein called seitan is not gluten free and some tempeh is not gluten free ( you must check). Flavored tofu many or may not be gluten free.

Barley enzymes used in malt, natural flavors and to process some non dairy beverages, chocolate chips, coffee substitutes, dessert syrups and even some brown rice syrups are not gluten. Always check

SO WHAT IS GLUTEN FREE???????????

Grains, flours, starches, and thickeners that are safe for celiac and wheat allergies include:

Corn, grits, polenta, and cornmeal

Buckwheat, buckwheat cereal, kasha, and buckwheat flour

Rice, white, brown, risotto, basmati, jasmine, sticky rice, rice cereal

Quinoa, and quinoa flour

Millet and millet flour

Sorghum flour

Amaranth and Amaranth flour

Certified gluten free oats and oatmeal

Coconut flour

Teff flour

Nut meals and flours- almond, chestnut, pecan, cashew

Chick pea, garbanzo soy and bean flour

Tapioca and tapioca starch

Potato flour and starch

Sweat potato and yam flour

Arrowroot starch

Cornstarch

PRE MADE INGREDIENTS that are safe for celiac include:

100% corn tortillas, and taco shells

Plain teff wraps made from 100 % teff flour

100% brown rice tortilla wraps

Unflavored mochi

100 % corn pasta

Quinoa and corn pasta

Soy pasta is it states gluten free

Brown rice and white rice noodles, rice glass noodles

100% Buckwheat sorba noodles

Rice paper

100% nut butters

100% seed butters

ABOUT BAKING RECIPES:

When it comes to converting your favorite baking recipes to gluten free, a simple one to one flour substitution will not yield the same results based on a wheat flour recipe.

Gluten is a living, stretchy ingredient that supports rise, structure, texture and kneadabilty. It takes more than a single gluten fee four replacement to create cake, bread, muffin, or cookie recipe that work. A combination of gluten free flours and starches with some extra egg whites or leavening and xanthan gum added to improve viscosity is necessary for optimum results.

I hope this helps explains things a bit more easily. Living gluten free is not only obtainable, but actually easy once you have the working knowledge. Remember my favorite saying, "KNOWLEDGE = POWER" well here ya go.........ta ta beauties

INSOMNIAC?? YOU ARE NOT ALONE MY FRIEND

One in three American adults has trouble sleeping. Drugs that induce sleep are among the most widely used medications today. Most insomnia is caused by worry, but other causes include sleep apnea, noise, light, excess caffeine before bed, lack of exercise and drug use, including the overuse of sleep inducing drugs. Other factors include chronic anxiety, depression or mania.

Traditionally, insomnia is most often the result of a liver and gallbladder imbalance. This is especially the case when the person has trouble sleeping between 11 and 3 am when the body is channeling its energy to gallbladder and lover which means these organs are receiving their peak amounts of Qi of life energy. Just as Western Science has established a circadian rhythm, so, too did Chinese healers, who maintained that each of the major organs receives optimal amounts of energy during a tow hour period through the coarse of a day. A weak liver and gallbladder cannot remain stable and relaxed during the hours of 11-3am when they are receiving an abundance of energy. This is especially the case for those who have eaten before bed or consumes alcohol or heavy and spicy foods.

Any food that taxes the liver and gallbladder and is consumed before bed can cause insomnia. Overeating, food additives, preservatives, artificial colors or foods that do not combine well can disturb the the liver and therefore can keep you awake.

Insomnia can be caused by an excess of other foods and drinks consumed during the day, including too much coffee, tea, yerba mate, chocolate ( including CACAO, yes its true) and soda. other dietary factors include a deficiency of B vitamins and calcium & Magnesium.

Finally, eating whole grains and getting physical exercise are essential to a good nights sleep. Whole grains promote the production of serotonin, a brain transmitter that promotes better concentration, feelings of well being and deep sleep.

Natural Remedies: Foods to eat-

*Chlorophyll rich foods such as leafy, green vegetables steamed and boiled.

*Blue green algae and spirulina

*Oyster shell can be purchased in health food stores and taken as a nutritional supplement.

*Mushroom of all types ( Chaga especially)

* Chia seeds also have a sedative effect

*Dill & Basil

Herbs to treat insomnia:

* Rose hips: soothing and calming to the nerves

*Hops are a mild sedative, can be mixed with chamomile in equal part to make a tea

*Passion flower is a sedative. Take 30-60 drops before bed of the tincture

*Skullcap, Valerian, lemon balm and lady's slipper in equal portion. Drink an infusion when needed, using one ounce to a pint of boiling water. Steep for 20 mins

Homeopathy:

* Nux vomica

*Arnica: when you are sleepless from worry

*Coffea

*Pulsatilla: for sleeplessness from recurring thoughts.

Take NATURES CALM 3 teaspoons in hot water before bed. It is calcium/mag mix that does wonders.

Also try mediation and visualization techniques at bed time to help calm the spirit and mind...it really does work. And of coarse a high quality dosing of LAVENDER or SPIKENARD will help you relax and fall into a deep slumber. Check out www.wisdomoftheearth.com for my favorite essential oils in the world. Nighty night beauties

BIOFILMS: THE ANSWER TO WHY YOUR MEDICINE ISNT WORKING??

A big hot topic in the Lyme community is what is called BIOFILM but it goes way beyond LYMES. Here are some facts about it. The national Institutes of Health Estimated that 60% of all human infections and 80 % of refractory infections ( def. Unresponsive to medical treatment) are attributable to BIOFILM COLONIES. Research has shown this to be true in cases where the pathogen is Chlamydia pneunomiae, Helicobacter pylori, Lyme Disease- Borrelia Burgdorferi and Candida albicans- to name just a few.

The protection conferred upon microorganisms by Biofilm allows them to achieve a hign level of antibiotic resistance, stealth and invisibility. Biofilms not only provide a physical barrier to antimicrobial agents ( pharmaceutical antibiotics) and host antibiotics but facilitate the exchange of antibiotic-resistant genetic material between organisms and may contain antibiotic degrading enzymes such as b-lactamase, effectively neutralizing incoming antibiotic molecules. Biofilms thus render pathogenic microorganisms enormously difficult to eradicate and can almost single-handedly contribute to localized or systemic inflammatory reactions and delayed wound healing. The number or human diseases shown to to be associated with Biofilms is expanding and includes: Chronic bacterial prostatitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, cystic fibrosis pneumonia, peridontitis, Crohns's disease, ulcerative colitis to name just a few.

What's the good news???? Many Doctors and researchers have developed effective Biofilm Protocol's that can help puncture the film wall and help make your method of treatment more effective and thus healing the condition fully.

Here is one protocol by Dr. Ettingers:

1) MONOLAURIN (lauric acid) 600mgs 2 caps 2x a day

2)NATTOKINASE ( a potent fibrinolytic enzyme) 100 mgs 1-3 times a aday

3)INTERFASE PLUS ( a broad spectrum enzyme formula w/EDTA) 2 caps 3 X a day on empty stomach

4)SERRAPEPTASE ( 20,000 units 2 x day

5) VITAMIN C ( ascorbic acid- not buffered as most of these contain metals) 500 mgs 4 x a day.

Avoid supplemental forms of Magnesium, Iron and Calcium as they may feed biofilm.

Take a broad spectrum probiotic and prebiotic as these crowd out the bad bacteria and help disturb biofilm colonies along the mucous membrane.

I am currently experimenting with this biofilm protocol for a month and post back with my results but it may be worth looking more into and researching on your own. Bye for now beauties and HAPPY 2010 if I dont blog until after!!!

RAW -LIVE TACOS ANYONE???

I have been searching for the perfect ingredients to make as a taco substitute. I call this TACO SUPREME and it can be used like you would regular non vegan taco meat. Top salads, make a delicious wrap or add it in a burrito. It adds a nutty, rich, meaty favor and is so satisfying and yummy.

1/2 cup raw, unsalted almonds, dry

1/2 cup organic walnuts, dry

1 tablespoon ground cumin

1 tablespoon ground coriander

1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil

2/3 teaspoon celtic sea salt

1 teaspoon Nama Shoya or Braggs Liquid Aminos

Process almonds and walnuts into a powder

Place nut meal into a bowl. Add cumin, coriander, olive oil, salt, and Nama Shoyu and mix well.

Voila. This will keep in frige for up to 4 days.

PLANT MEDICINES OF BRAZIL, SUMA

Suma, the dried root of a tropical native to the AMAZON rain forest, is definitely worth noting. Brazilian natives are said to refer to suma as PARA TODA meaning "for all things." It was introduced to this country as BRAZILIAN GINSENG and has been gaining popularity and recognition ever since. Suma has been noted as a immune enhancer or adaptogen ( similar to Maca), that is , an agent that helps the body adapt to stresses of all kinds by restoring or enhancing the natural immune system. Dr. Milton Brazzach at the University of Sao Paulo is reported to have tested some 3000 patients, many with serious diseases , such as cancer and diabetes and results have proven to have a "great healing effect." Indigenous People of the Amazon and jungle regions have been using Suma for at least 300 years as a tonic, aphrodisiac, and remedy for cancer, diabetes, tumors, wounds and skin problems.Pfaffia Pnaiculata is a large, shrubby ground vine that has an intricate and deep root system. The root resembles ginseng, hence the name Brazilian ginseng. Suma grows in the Amazon basin, but also in the tropical parts of Brazil, Ecuador, Panama, Paraguay and Peru. Although harvested wild, like maca, suma has been domesticated and farmed for quite some time. Traditionally suma has been used as a food that provides physical staminia and endurance. Aside from its physical resemblance to ginseng, suma also acts a true adaptogen and why intuitively why tribal cultures have incorporated into their daily diets for hundreds of years. Because of its taste which is similar to vanilla suma powder is often prepared as a tea concoction or the rot powder is sprinkled on fruits or in beverages. In the western world, suma is used as a tonic for the cardiovascular system, the central nervous system, the reproductive system and the digestive system. It is also used o alleviate hormonal imbalances. To try it I suggest my favorite distributor for many medicinal herbs from the rain forest, its call RAINTREE NUTRITION. They sell not only SUMA, but MACA, UNA DE GATO and many more powerful herbs from Brazil. Rock on Beauties

CONSTIPATION TIPS FROM THE COLON QUEEN HERSELF

Hello all and happy holidays. And if you are like most people you are running around, eating far off of any type of schedule, cramming food in your mouth as you run errands trying to balance what little time you have and get everything you need to get done and hopefully find a little time for yourself and self care. With all of this going on it is now wonder why your elimination is a little off schedule and I am here to give you some tips on keep things moving and flowing outward:)

Colon Remedies:

*Apple mono diet (3 days): This consists of four to five meals of raw apples with organic apple juice between meals. On the evening of the third day, take 2 tablespoons of raw, unrefined olive oil. Take no enemas or laxatives. Take 25 drops of cascara sagrada diluted in water, four times a day. When take in low dosages, cascara as a tonic,, not a laxative. Take cascara for 2 weeks, then gradually reduce.

*Organic Prune, raison, fig tea: Cut up 12 figs and place in as saucepan together with 12 cut up prunes and 2 TBLS raisons. Cover with 2 pints of distilled water , cover and simmer for 30 minutes.

*Black sesame/cumin seed tea. Grind half cup black sesame seed/cumin seed combination and boil with 2 cups water for 30 minutes. Strain and drink

*Up the lemon water. Drink 8-12 cups of distilled water with organic lemon juice added. The more the better.

* Try Shilajit. This is such an amazing medicine that it deserves it own blog but for now I will at least mention it. It is an Ayurvedic traditional medicine that has 42 different type of minerals and folic acid which comes from naturally occurring rock minerals. It can be taken in capsule and also drank like a coffee substitute with agave and creme, just like you would coffee but it is incredible for constipation and many other health maladies. You can get it online if you search for it.

*Triphala is another indian remedy that is tried and true. It has a combination of 3 ayurvedic herbs that help to promote natural urges without any addictive qualities as well as herbs that acts like an intestinal cleanser which sweeps debris form the large intestines. Take 3 capsules in the evening before bed. Keep upping the does by one capsule per night until you achieve desires results of 3 bowel movements per day.

HERBS THAT TREAT CONSTIPATION:

* Rhubarb bark

*Barberry bcark

*Dandelion root

*Flax: soak and eat or consume as a tea

*Fenegreek ( as above)

*Senna

HOMEOPATHY:

*Nux vomica: If you are hooked on laxatives, this will break the habit. Take a dose before bed time for a few days.

*Use sulfur when its painful to pass stools

*Alumina

*Use graphites when there is no urge to defecate.

*Use silica for a bashful stool that starts and goes back. There is soreness and often oozing mucous.

DONT FORGET THE ACIDOPHILUS AND LACTOBACILLUS EVER!! It is the best way to keep regular and planting your intestines with that friendly army of good bacteria to help create a balanced ecosystem inside your beautiful temple.

Hope this was some help and FLOW ON PEOPLE

NAMASTE

THE HEALING WATERS OF BRASIL

Divine Nectar: MASSIVE FIREPLACES AT SHADLE FARM

Divine Nectar: MASSIVE FIREPLACES AT SHADLE FARM

MASSIVE FIREPLACES AT SHADLE FARM

When I said Shadle Farm boasts some of the largest and most amazing fireplaces from the historic 1700's, I wasn't exaggerating. When you come to a retreat or day program here at our farm , you will enjoy blazing fires, hot mulled organic cider and hearth cooked vegan food prepared by MARK SHADLE head chef and owner of Its Only Natural in Middletown CT. Please contact 860-989-5020 for upcoming events or if interested in hosting an event here. To check out more photos of the Farm and our last event go to www.colonics4life.com and click on the photo tour of Shadle Farm at the top of the page. Come experience natural in all of its exquisite beauty and cozy up next to one of our amazing fires.....and heal.

Divine Nectar: DIVINE NECTAR'S ANTI FATIGUE ARSENAL

Divine Nectar: DIVINE NECTAR'S ANTI FATIGUE ARSENAL

DIVINE NECTAR'S ANTI FATIGUE ARSENAL

I don't know about you but everyone I meet these days all have the same comment..."I am just exhausted" and we haven't even got to the whole holiday frenzy yet!! Let's see what we can do about this- Here are some tried and true suggestions to help combat the fatigue and give your body the extra stamina it will need to get through this period of change going on in the cosmos and in this ever changing economy and world.

Herbs to treat fatigue:
* Siberian ginseng or eleuthero ( strengthens adrenal glands): 1/2 teaspoon, 2 -3 times a day
*Ginseng (strengthens adaptability to stress, energizes): tincture, 1/2 teaspoon or 2-3 capsules 2x a day.
*Oats ( counters exhaustion and depression): tincture 1/2 to 1 teaspoon, 3x a day. Look for a tincture that contains the oat seed and the straw.

Homeopathy Remedies:
* Arnica: for fatigue from over work and stress
*Arsenicum: for anxiety and restlessness

Chinese Medicine: Fatigue is often a sign of weak spleen-pancreas qi. This qi, often called middle QI, animates the periphery of the body. The strength of the arms and legs depends on this qi. To strengthen use warming foods such as most complex carbs, especially brown rice. Also steel cut oats, sweet rice and winter squash, parsnips, carrots, rutabagas, leeks, pumpkin, black beans and spices like black pepper, ginger, fennel and garlic. Food must be chewed well and taken in small and frequent meals.

Physiotherapy:
*Deep breathing excercises
*Outdoor exercise and natural sunlight even in the winter
*Morning walks on wet grass
*Meditation
*Massage, therapeutic, acupressure or deep tissue

Supplements:
* Beta carotene 15-30mg per day
*Vitamin B complex: 50 mg per day
*Vitamin C: 100 mg per day
*Vitamin E and vitamin D 3 400 mg a day or more
*Royal jelly: 1-3 capsules or 100-400 mg a day
* A good quality whole food living multivitamin

Body/mind/spirit:
*Meditate on why your life may be imbalanced and takes steps to correct that imbalance
*Spend at least 30 minutes daily doing what you really enjoy that does not include eating, watching tv or job related activities.
*Maintain or restore a positive attitude towards your life through prayer, chanting , meditation and PLAY. Or yeah did I mention DANCING. Dance, dance, dance when you are alone and let it all hang out if even only for a few minutes. You have no idea how restorative this can be to your soul. That's it for now but if you take even a few of the items from my suggestions you will be ahead of the game and have a spring in your step. Bye for now beauties

THE BEAUTY OF THE SHADLE FARM HOUSE

Hello all. I will be uploading various pics from our last event at Shadle Farm as well as from the property and inside our 1730's farmhouse. It is a nod to the past for sure, with gigantic fireplaces in every room, some so big that you could drive a vw bug right into it - and I am not exaggerating!! This is one of everyones favorites, called the long room which boasts an enormous fireplace which was the original kitchen to the home. The ambience and natural beauty of the surroundings and the in interior of the home with its wood plank floors, stone work and detailing make spending time here at the farm like you are on a far away exotic retreat. I will be posting more photos here of Shadle Farm as our next retreat gears up. Stay tuned and informed people.

ANOTHER LEVEL ONE CERTIFICATION AT SHADLE FARM

We are planning another Level One Medicinal Aromatherapy workshop here at Shadle Farm in Jan 2010. What a great way to bring in the new year by empowering yourself with the ancient wisdom and language of the plants and trees. This workshop is good for people who are just starting to learn about using essential oils in their everyday life as well as for holistic practitioners who want to start to use the essences for an adjunct to what they are already offering. I have taken this coarse several times and get something new from it every time. It is a Friday eve- Sunday and includes a shamanic guided meditation, yoga, hands on healing work, group healing and the level one certification and teachings. Whole foods and lunches are available from ION RESTURANT and as always my husband Chef Mark Shadle will be preparing loads of healthy vegan snacks and refreshments for the group as well as the most beautiful fires in our 1730 Farm house. JAN 22-24 Call 860-922-6846 to reserve your space. We try and limited to a very small group so reserve your space today. To check out the instructors www.wisdomoftheearth.com

COLD LASER THERAPY MAY BE THE FINAL ANSWER I WAS SEARCHING FOR

Any one who knows me whether it is my patients, friends or family members- knows what these last few years have been like since I was diagnosed with Lymes disease. It pretty much has a drastic NEGATIVE impact on my quality of life. Thank GOD and GREAT SPIRIT, I have made the commitment to turn any resentment from this disease and turn it into a positive life affirming journey into health, fullness and bring forward all of the gifts, knowledge and connections I have made so that I can help you in your struggles.

That being said it has been a wild and expensive ride. Between all of the LYME doctors, endless amounts of herbal tinctures, heavy supplements, body work, travel to California, in and out of NYC to meet with Dr. Shulz, undergoing heavy metal chelation therapy and IV infusions for anti microbials, going to healers in Brasil, countless amounts of time and energy researching and taking seminars with the top people in the field, conducting my own research to the point of physical and mental exhaustion.... I have become at times weary from all of it. Yet having a deep knowing that every single experience I had was leading me somewhere and more importantly was giving me the best internship I could ever ask for. I have attained so much more knowledge and credentials in life from having lYMES and know that it was put in my path for reason . I am committed to seeing this through to the very end and never giving up hope that the answers will continue to be revealed as they have been so beautifully in the past.

The latest truth to be revealed to me is about LLLT (low level laser therapy). I have done more research about it and am currently under going treatment NOT FOR ACTIVE LYME, but the after effects of what the lyme did to my body, my organs and my immune system. I WAS very successful in finding the right protocol for treating the disease itself ( herbal protocol, rife treatments, infrared sauna treatments, heavy metal chelation, colonics ect) But it is the after effects from lymes that I am still dealing with. I will be doing a follow up in exactly 2 weeks with the results I experienced with LLLT and resetting my cell memory and erasing the lyme from the cell memory completely and creating balance and my body back to where it was pre lyme STAY TUNED

AN OLDY BUT GOODIE APPLE CIDER VINEGAR

This time of the year I always gravitate back to some of my grandmother Beach's old wives holistic remedies. And yes, they are usually the simplest, most cost effective and most effective healing remedies available. One of my favorites is raw cultured APPLES CIDER VINEGAR and heres a little bit of background on it. Fact: Hippocrates, the Father of Medicine in 400 B.c treated his patients with natural, ACV for its powerful healing cleansing qualities. It's a naturally occurring antibiotic, antiseptic and miraculously fights germs and bacteria. The internal benefits include:

*Rich miracle enzymes and potassium

*Helps control and normalize weight

*Improves digestion and assimilation

*Helps relieve arthritis and stiffness

*Relieves dry and sore throats

*Helps remove body toxins

The external benefits include:

*Helps promote a youthful body

*Helps maintain healthy skin

*Helps prevent dandruff , baldness and itching scalp

*Soothes tight, arching muscles and joints

Organic Apple cider vinegar is the #1 food I recommend in my health and colonic practice for maintaining the body's vital acid-alkaline balance.

ACV combats gallstones

ACV helps shrink prostate

ACV Vinegar for feminine hygiene

Fight arthritis with ACV

ACV helps rid the body of mucous. THIS IS WHY I TURN TO IT IN THE FALL/WINTER MONTHS.

Millions have postnasal drip and are plagued with toxic mucous in their sinus cavities and throat. If sinus sufferers remove all dairy products and wheat from their diet and use ample ample amounts of ACV, soon al these mucous conditions will vanish.

Upon rising, have a glass of warm, distilled water with 1 or 2 tsp of ACV and 1-2 teaspoon raw honey. Also enjoy this drink midmorning and mid afternoon. On your salads use 1-2 tsp of ACV combined with braggs amino acids or olive oil.

For throat gargle and nasal wash: Add 1-2 tsp ACV to 1/2 glass warm water for a throat gargle or nasal sniff wash to help clean out the mucous.

ACV makes the best mouthwash available. One tsp ACV to half glass water (kills mouth bacteria, fights plaque and tarter, helps prevent gum disease, promotes healing and freshens breath.

Another tip I give at my Colonic Institute for constipation. It's important that the bowels move regularly and freely. Outgo most equal intake. You should have a bowel movement soon after rising and within an hour after meals. Flaxseed tea with ACV acts like a bowel lubricant.

Boil two cups distilled water with 4 TBS flaxseeds for 15 minutes or soak overnight. Mixture becomes jellylike when cold. Add 2 Tbls of mixture, plus 1 tsp ACV to glass distilled water and honey. Drink upon rising and an hour before bed. Store in refrigerator and use when needed.

Buy Braggs RAW APPLE CIDER VINEGAR in any health food store and enjoy all the benefits year round. till later beauties. LOVE AND PEACE AND FAITH ALWAYS

ANN WIGMORE'S HEALING RETREAT IN PUERTO RIC0

I just got back from the tropical island of Puerto Rico. Aside from having some of the most beautiful white sand beaches, absolutely perfect weather year round 85 degrees in the summer and 82 in the winter--and breathtaking mountains, the island also is home of one of my favorite health and healing retreats, Hippocrates Institute. One of my heros Ann Wigmore founded the institute decades ago and made her mark by educating the world about the benefits of food combining and the power of live, raw plant enzymes and WHEAT GRASS ENEMAS!! She has founded several healing compounds in the US but my favorite location is on the island of PR. If you are looking to get away from it all and transition physically, mentally and spiritually, I would highly recommend taking a trip down to Hippocrates for a week detox.

What to expect when you are there???? Everything from learning about the raw food diet, how to sprout, how to transition to a diet that incorporates more raw foods once you leave the retreat, how to grow your own wheatgrass, the importance of wheatgrass and wheat grass enemas, how to emotionally detox, classes of fermentation, dehydrating, and making rejuvelac ( which is fermented drink that contains tons of digestive enzymes and natural probiotics.... and also eating a 100% raw diet while you are at the retreat and detoxing daily with colonics, home enemas, gentle yoga, journaling, group share and even a talent show at the end. It is a wonderful experience and encourage people to look up the Hippocrates Institute on line. There another facility in West Palm Beach Flordia which I have been to also. Sorry for the shorter blogs lately, gearing up the farm for winter so there is much to do. BYE BEAUTIES

IS IT A PARASITE THATS KEEPING YOU UP AT NIGHT??

The warning signs a parasitic infection:

*Constipation

*Diarrhea

*Gas and bloating

*IBS

*Joint and muscle pains

*Anemia

* Allergies

*Skin conditions

* Sleep Disturbances

*Teeth grinding

*Chronic Fatigue

*Immune disfunction

Summing it up, basically parasites create damage to the host's body in six ways:

1) They destroy cells in the body faster than cells can be regenerated, thereby creating an imbalance that results in ulceration, perforation or anemia.

2) They produce toxic substances that are harmful to the body. In cases of chronic infection, the bodys immune response can be pushed into overdrive, producing elevated levels of eosinophils. Eosionophils are specialized white cells that normally combat any microscopic pathogen, but when their level is elevated, they themselves can cause tissue damage that results in pain and inflammation.

3)The presence of parasites irritates the tissues of the body, inducing an inflammatory reaction on the part of the host.

4) Some parasites invade the body by penetrating the skin, producing dermatitis also causing damage to the intestinal lining and wall.

5)The size and weight of the parasitic cysts, particularly if they are located in the brain, spinal cord,eye, heart,or bones, produces pressure effects on these organs. Obstruction can occure as a result of this pressure.

6) The presence of parasites depresses the immune system functioning while activating the the immune response. THIS CAN EVENTUALLY LEAD TO IMMUNE EXHAUSTION. ( this is what millions of unsuspecting humans are experiencing and don't know why)

Not every case of ill health can be blamed on parasites. But if symptoms persist and reoccur at regular intervals after you've been treated for some other diagnosed ailment, than parasites should be suspected. Please consult an experiences health care provider that is literate about parasites and also consider, GREAT SMOKIES DIAGNOSTICS 1-800-522-4762 for a comprehensive stool analysis and parasite panel.

Please get the book GUESS WHAT CAME TO DINNER? PARASITE AND YOUR HEALTH, by Ann Louise Giddleman and read it cover to cover.

Happy FALL PEOPLE. NAMASTE

SWINE FLU AND VITAMIN D3

A quick post following my last vitamin d post. For the onset on the flu or swine flu, Dr. Mercola recommends 1000 vitamin d 3 per pound of weight. So 130 pound adult would take 130000 iuds of vitamin D 3 for 3 days. While this dose would cause some toxicity over long term use, for a period of 3 days it will be enough to bolster the immune system to combat the flu or swine flu. Please go to www.mercola.com

and listen to his 1 hour podcast about vitamin d and the many health related benefits. TILL LATER MY BEAUTIES

LOW VITAMIN D COULD BE THE CAUSE OF THAT FLU BUG

I want to encourage everybody to ask there doctor to order a vitamin d 25 hydroxy test on their lab work to measure the specific amounts of vitamin d in their body. Taking a multi vitamin with additional D IS SIMPLY NOT ENOUGH. You need to buy specific vitamin D3, Vital Nutrients makes a good one, but I have also seen it at Whole Foods. The D3 is the only way to build up the amounts of vitamin d that are needed not only for healthy bones but also a healthy immune system. In fact I would say that it is absolutely crucial!!!!! Please go to Dr. Mercola's website and download his one hour lecture on the benefits of vitamin D, it is fascinating.

The test levels range from 25-70. If your test range results come back under 30, which 75% of the population I bet would--this is consider high risk for cancer, ms and severe health challenges. With a culture that is obsessed with staying out of the sun, wearing 40 sunblock and sitting at our computers inside all day long....we have created a very vicious cycle with our own bodies. The optimum range is at the higher end and it best at a level of 60. If you are fighting cancer than even 75 would be ideal. Here is my biggest suggestion for all you people who are running out to get the flu shot this fall and winter season, get your vitamin d 3 up to snuff and you will avoid the sniffles this year. Why not??, its better than that vaccine which is full of mercury and will only cost 20 for a bottle. Plus aside from avoiding the flu there are many other greats benefits of raising your levels. Bone strength, helpful for depression, weight gain, food craving and so much more. Trust me one this one, its a no brainer.

THE MIRENA IUD NIGHTMARE :DON'T BE TRICKED PLEASE

I am on fire about this next blog because I am infuriated by how products are misrepresented by the media, clever advertisements and our health care providers and how that can translate into a utter nightmare for all of us and in this instance ME. Several years ago I developed extremely bad and heavy menses, so much so that I ended up needing surgery. Prior to the surgery my doctor (who I have to go on record that I respect greatly) convinced me that during the surgery he would put an IUD device called the MIRENA to help reduce the clotting and bleeding and assured me that UNLIKE BIRTH CONTROL PILLS (which I refused to take for a host of reasons) that the mirena is an inert device that is completely safe with NO SIDE EFFECTS.

I questioned him after reading the brochure in his waiting room, "is is safe to have progesterone being released into the body?" "Are you sure its safer than birth control?" "Are there long term effects because I am a firm believer in NOT taking anything synthetic in my body?"

He dismissed all of my line of questioning and convinced me that the amount of progesterone being released was so small and so localized that it would have no effect on my entire body and that it was the best and most beneficial way for me to move forward. I eventually said ok, as a short term option and allowed the device to be inserted at the same time as the surgery and went forward with the plan.

All along I should have known better but for some reason I cannot explain I trusted it would be fine based on all of his answers....well that is where the nightmare began. Sadly it has been 1.5 years that I have had the iud and it wasn't until now that I have put all the pieces to the puzzle together. The Mirena was making me sick the whole time but now symptoms were becoming more obvious. I started having a chronic UTI's that would not go away no matter how many antibiotics or herbals I would take. I was having numbness and insomnia unlike anything I had ever experienced. My moods were so drastic that I would fly off the handle with the slightest sign of stress. I had gained a mysterious 10-15 pounds and looked bloated and pregnant for no reason at all. My symptom list grew from there. It was not until I started looking on the internet that I came across a site called "The truth about Mirena.com" and I saw thousands of posts from people just like me who had there life and health destroyed by having this little so called "harmless" device inserted.

I started researching all the the blogs about the dangers of the mirena and all of the horror stories and realized that all along it had been severely compromising my immune system. In shock I quickly called the doctor that put it in and demanded to remove it and went just yesterday to have it removed and am hopeful that I can get my body back to where it was prior to having the device put it. I encourage ANY WOMAN with the Mirena in to go online, to curezone.com, to google the side effects that the mirena has. There r over 2000 side effects which as associated with this so called harmless device (which boast that it has no or very few side effects).. Please take your health into your own hands and don't be fooled by the hype. PLEASE. If I could be fooled than anyone can because I am usually so skeptical about such things and take a natural, holistic path in my health and life....I can't believe that I fell for it but the good news I was able to see through it and be able to empower myself to take it out, get my health back and share this vital info with you. love to all. Knowledge=power.

Empower yourself people. "FIT AND FORGET" contraception- is the lovely logan that those asses use to sell the dreaded device. I will tell you this much I will NEVER FORGET about the time on the Mirena for the rest of my life. What a crock of bs. Get informed and always make the right decison about your own health.

AN AYURVEDIC MORNING RITUAL

As fall sets in I always look to deepen my yogic practice and help my body adjust to the rapid changes in the weather. Ayurveda is a wonderful way to help balance the body so that it is strong and can withstand the changes in the season and keep the body in tune. Here is a simple am ritual to help get you on to a more balanced path. This is appropriate for all constitutional types, V, P, K and of coarse always feel free to alter the routine to best suit your needs.

1) On waking, lie in bed for a few moments and become aware of how your body is feeling and of your attitude toward the new day. Think about all levels of your being and your part in universal creation. Whatever the difficulties or challenges you many be facing during the day, start it with kind and loving thoughts about yourself. Adopt and attitude of thanks, this will keep your heart open to the wonder of the universe. Try and carry this attitude and awareness into all your daily activities.

2)Rub your palms together and hold or gently rub them over your face.

3)Greet yourself in the mirror, a reminder that you love and respect yourself

4)Visit the bathroom and attend to the natural urges of elimination. If need be half a cup of warm filtered water with lemon and pinch of celtic sea salt to assist with the urge to eliminate.

5) Gently scape your tongue with a tongue scrapper or teaspoon. This stimulates the digestive system through subtle channels-- like meridians that connect to the tongue. if you have AMA (coated tongue) this will help remove some of this and get your digestion flowing

6)Clean teeth. If you have receding gums, massage them with your fore-finger after dipping in sesame oil. Repeat evening.

7)Clean your nasal passages with a neti pot filled with water water and a pinch of sea salt

8) Oil your skin with Sesame oil starting with the feet and working up the body. This will help moisturize the body from the outside in. If rubbed directly over the abdomen it can stimulate digestion and alleviate gas.

9)Take a hot shower

10) Do so stretching and a 5 min mediation.

11)Dress in fresh , clean, comfortable clothes. Select color according to their effects on your dosha or body type

12) Eat an appropriate breakfast for your doshic type, VOILA YOU ARE NOW CENTERED AND BALANCED. More to come about how each color effects the different body types, VATA, PITTA, KAPHA. Until tomorrow

2)Rub your

WHAT CAN I LEARN FROM MEDICINAL ESSENTIAL OILS IN MY LIFE?

Many people ask the question how they can use essential oils in there every day life and how they will benefit them. Did you realize that the molecular structure of Plants and Trees is like the molecular structure of humans, animals, fish and fowl? Why so you supposes that vegetables and fruits are good for the body? Well, the essences likewise are highly beneficial fro humans, animals fish and fowl. Essences have been created to be our medicine and food and they are harmonized. The human body, our heart, our inner child recognizes this, yet our minds due to our programming, have forgotten these truths...but we are now returning that truth. In reality, our traditional allopathic medical system has not been interested in you becoming aware that the pharmaceutical companies, despite all of their hoola, DO NOT KNOW HOW to harmonize drugs like nature does; Hence the horrendous side effects scenario that is before us, wherein 25-30% of the hospital beds in our country alone are taken up with patients suffering from drug interactions and side effects.

The paradigm of the Plant and Tree kingdom is purely based in love and addresses Prevention first and symptoms second, whereas the traditional allopathic and pharmaceutical paradigm is fear based and addresses symptoms first and prevention second, or NOT AT ALL in some cases. One of the reasons I point this out is because if you approach phyto-aromatherapy with fear and all its appendages within the traditional health programming you will have negative and fear based feelings like, "Can I truly take responsibility for my health?"

"Should I believe my allopathic doctors and other voices which tell me I should not take take responsibility because they know and I don't?"

"Can medicinal essences really work for me when I all I have been taught and programmed with is drugs, surgery and the warning that alternative medicine, like medicinal essences, is nonsence and not scientific?"

Plants and trees and their essences have been human beings medicine for thousands of years....and pharmecueuticals for only 100 years. We are becoming aware that past civilizations on the this plants were more highly evolved than us and that we are on an upward path towards a reawakening and remembering of the power we have lost. Consider Plants and Trees as friends that desire communication with you on a physical, emotional and spiritual level. They have consciousness and intelligence.

Medicinal grade essential oils can be safely used in an undiluted manner for the facilitation of healing by means of inhalation, topical application and ingested. As a practitioner , I uses essence 24/7 on my clients and myself. Also, this is where your responsibility comes to learn about the essences and how to use them properly. Any one interested in being certified with level one medicinal aromatherapy can contact me at www.colonics4life.com. I will be posted pictures from the first workshop we had at ION farm in Durham this weekend. It was remarkable. Bye for now beauties

POSITIVE AFFIRMATIONS WORK, I SWEAR

I wanted share with you my favorite affirmations from book by Louise Hay which I think everybody on the planet should own and keep on the bed side tables always. Its called "Heal Your Body" and I think it's brilliant. It is more of a meditation but I suggest saying once in the am and once just before you fall asleep. It is beautiful and it really helps to manifest the kind of life you wish to have, the health, the kind of work you do and to create peace and harmony in your life.

It is the most handy book you will ever have. Any time you encounter any health issue, you look the symptom up in the index and there is a direct link made between our health manifestation and what is going on with us on a deeper level. She also gives you the positive affirmation to help deal with this issue. It is brilliant. I use it daily with clients that present with any form of body injury and give them a new was of looking at their ailment by connecting the thought and the physical manifestation that is occurring in their body.

One example. KNEE PAINS= Inflexibility, Won't give in, Stubborness in some area of ones life. POSITIVE AFFIRMATION is I BEND AND FLOW WITH EASE AND COMFORT. ALL IS WELL IN MY LIFE

Another. BLADDER ISSUES IN WOMAN= Criticism, disappointment, failure. Reacting like a child. POSITIVE AFFIRMATION IS: DIVINE RIGHT ACTION IS ALWAYS TAKING PLACE IN MY LIFE. ONLY GOOD COMES FROM EACH AND EVERY EXPERIENCE. IT IS SAFE TO GROW UP.

And now for the loving treatment that I love so much. It is the best meditation. Try to visualize when you are saying this or even in front of mirror speaking directly yo yourself. Get the book or print this blog so you have it to use.

A LOVING TREATMENT:

DEEP AT THE CENTER OF MY BEING, there is an infinite well of love. I allow this love to flow to the surface. It fills my heart, my body, my mind, my consciousness, my very being and radiates out from me in all directions and returns to me multiplied. The more love I use and give, the more I have to give, the supply is endless. The use of my love makes me feel GOOD. it is an expression of my inner joy. I love myself; therefore I provide a comfortable home for myself, one that fills all my needs and is a pleasure to be in. I fill all the rooms with the vibration of love so that all who enter, myself included, will feel this love and be nourished by it.

I love myself; therefore, I work at a job that I truly enjoy doing, one that uses my creative talents and abilities and work for and with people whom I love and love me and earning a good income. I love myself therefore; I behave and think in a loving way to all people, for a know that which I give out is returned to multiplied. I only attract loving people in my world, for are a mirror of what I am. I love myself therefore; I forgive and totally release the past and past experiences and I am free. I love each moment as good and knowing that my future is bright, joyous and secure. I am a beloved child of the universe and the universe lovingly takes care of me now and forever more.

Divine Nectar: WHAT IS I TOLD YOU THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH WAS FREE

Divine Nectar: WHAT IS I TOLD YOU THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH WAS FREE

Divine Nectar: WHAT IS I TOLD YOU THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH WAS FREE

Divine Nectar: WHAT IS I TOLD YOU THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH WAS FREE

Divine Nectar: WHAT IS I TOLD YOU THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH WAS FREE

Divine Nectar: WHAT IS I TOLD YOU THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH WAS FREE

Divine Nectar: WHAT IS I TOLD YOU THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH WAS FREE

Divine Nectar: WHAT IS I TOLD YOU THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH WAS FREE

Divine Nectar: WHAT IS I TOLD YOU THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH WAS FREE

Divine Nectar: WHAT IS I TOLD YOU THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH WAS FREE

WHAT IS I TOLD YOU THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH WAS FREE

This is pre blog to a more detailed one to come later in the week about my latest discovery. As I told everyone, I married the most incredible and talented whole foods chef in the world ( in my humble opinion):) But as a result of my passion for health and healing the body and his life purpose of eco farming and cooking organic and whole food, it was a match made in the divine cosmos to bring this forward to the world.

We recently started living on a beautiful organic farm in Durham, CT which has inspired us both immensely on every level, but in particular we have both gotten more into learning what grows in our environment and habitat and how to harvest things for both eating and for medicinal purposes. Out on one of our evening weed walks, we discovered many things like the famed JAPANESE KNOTWEED which I blogged about early in the week along with at least 20 other medicinal plants.

Once you start to recognize the plants and identify them you will be amazed how plentiful these healing herbs and plants are growing wildly in our own back yard, or better yet along the the roadside as you drive to work, Whole foods or Starbucks. I encourage everyone to google a picture of Japanese Knotweed and I guarantee you will find it within 20 minutes- no matter where you live so long as its not a major city.

The other MIRACLE of life I want to talk about is a MEDICINAL MUSHROOM called "CHAGA". I had read and heard much about it from David Wolf but never in my life thought it would be growing in my back yard. If you look around and find any Birch Trees which are very common and easy to pick out because of their white skin. Well this is where the miracle is found. Out of any gashes or wounds in the side of the birch tree is where this medical fungus grows from. As I said in the beginning, my next blog will be about the health benefits and scientific facts about the Chaga and how to prepare a tea from the fungus. The main treatment that CHAGA MUSHROOM is used for is cancers and tumors but much research says it is a cure all of the whole body and a serious immune modulator. For any one who doesn't know what that means, it means that the mushroom's properties has SUPER INTELLIGENCE to know exactly what your immune needs. If it needs to be calmed or jazzed up, it will do what its meant to in order to balance our your body. God I love this stuff and I LOVE NATURE. STAY TUNED. YOUR HOMEWORK IS TO LOCATE BIRCH TREES OR JAPANESE KNOTWEED IN YOUR ENVIRONMENT. DO IT FOR YOURSELF. KNOWLEDGE=POWER

JAPANESE KNOTWEED IS KING AND LYMES DISEASE SUCKS

Any one following by blog or knows me personally knows that I have been effected by LYMES DISEASE and that it has touched my life on a very personal way. I am constantly expanding my knowledge about this complicated and pesky disease and have dedicated much of my life to researching, experimenting and gaining any all information to share with you and the world. If I can help even one person it makes it worth my time. I am currently reading a great book called "HEALING LYME". As a raw food enthusiast I also have studied with DAVID WOLF and recently seen an interview with him which focuses on the LYME EPIDEMIC here on the east coast and world wide. In short, there are 4 super sonic herbs that are a must have for the immune system and to fight off active or inactive lyme ( which a huge percentage of the population has but most likely will NEVER be diagnosed). David Wolf stresses a point which I agree with completely:

WHETHER YOU HAVE BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH LYMES DISEASE OR NOT. EVERYBODY NEEDS TO BOLSTER THE IMMUNE SYSTEM TO FIGHT OFF PARASITES, SPIROCHETES AND FUNGUS to be able to fight off illness and diseases that are introduced into our climate and region. Whether is lymes, asian flu, environmental toxicity or whatever these things will help to keep you healthy and strong. ya ready???????????

1) JAPANESE KNOTWEED (which I will focus on in this blog) It is also known as RESVERATROL)

2) SAMENTO, UNA DE GATO, or CATS CLAW: All go but the same name.

3) ASTRAGULUS

4) SARSPIRILLA.

I will blog about each individually, today I will start with the king of the crop. POLYGONUM CUSPIDATUM, aka Japanese Knotweed

Its tradional uses: tonic against Lyme disease, anti inflammatory, anti bacterial, nerve and brain tonic.

This plant acts as both symptom relief and as a massive healing treatment, in numerous ways and in all the body's systems affected by the spirochetes that are the cause of the disease complex. Japanese knotweed both enhances and balances the immune function, as well as reducing inflammatory over response throughout the body. It is a strong anti toxin herb, protecting the body against the direct toxins of the infection as well as the toxins released when the treatment begins to kill invaders.

In addition to protecting the often lyme-attacked joints, Knotweed works to protect the brain and nerve tissue from inflammation and damage and protects the skin and heart from lyme related degeneration. Basically all the ways that Lyme and the resulting cascade of reactions attack the body are dealt with by the the KING JAPANESE KNOTWOOD.

Herbalist have attributed these effects to knotweed's high concentration of Resveratrol, a compound best known as the explanation for the "french paradox" effect of red wine. But, as usual that one chemical alone does not account for all of Knotweed's effects and from the alchemy, we know that it is the living intelligence of the whole plant which brings the healing synergy and no part of that intelligence acts in isolation. So, given the synergy that occurs in this complex plant, acting against this complex illness like lyme and other immune disfunctions of auto immune diseases, I highly suggest giving it a try, you have absolutely nothing to lose and EVERYTHING TO GAIN. Btw, Japanese knotweed grows like wild in our area. Google a picture of it and be on the look out. The root is best dug out in sept oct and you can prepare your own tinctures and teas. Or it can be ordered on line. Suggested dosage is to start at 1000 milligrams per day and if you can tolerate go to 2000 a day.