Cultivating An Attitude Of Gratitude

My Thanksgiving with some wonderful friends

There is so much to be sad about these days, just turn on the news.  (My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims in the Phillipines and Illinois.)  The fortunate thing is that most of us are not living through tragedy all the time.  Most of us can be grateful for the good that does come our way.  Instead of lamenting what is lacking in our lives, learning to be thankful for what we have been blessed with can go so far in regards to our health.  It really can make or break the process of healing.  I have heard several interviews of naturopaths in the field of healing cancer naturally and one of the crucial ingredients of success is having a positive mental attitude.  Gratitude, therefore is an attribute we should strive to cultivate. 

Here are some articles that I have come across that state this very important truth.  The Huffington Post also has this article worth reading.

Just as a side note.  More than 50% of the world's population lives on  less than a dollar a day.  Here in the United States we do not live hand to mouth.  Even in a down economy I do see abundance on a regular basis.  I believe in taking every moment to savor the blessings.  I love to feel sunlight on my face when I walk my dog.  I love to be with my family and friends and enjoying something as simple as laughter.  Another idea we should always remember is that life is never a snapshot.  Things do change and we never know when we finally have our dreams realized.  Until then, we can always count our blessings!

I hope you and your loved ones had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Healing Spiritually

In God We Trust is written on our dollar bill, but in this age of political correctness the mention of anything spiritual can lead to ruffled feathers, offending folks with sparks and words flying left and right.  If I followed Buddha, I don't think many would have a problem with that.  If I discussed an experience of sheer ecstasy over achieving nirvana, I think many would just accept it without complaint.  My desire to share my spiritual experience is not to offend anyone.  That's the last thing I want to do.  I believe in the interconnectedness of body, mind and spirit and it is in that vein that I share this post.  To me, the message of health and healing just wouldn't be complete if I didn't touch upon this topic at least once.  If this topic doesn't interest you, feel free to skip this post.

Every morning when I wake up I have a very special routine.  I begin my day by spending a half hour in prayer and the study of the Bible. (I have a neat Bible app that makes this convenient and doable.)  Take this time away from me and you might as well take away the air that I breathe.  I depend on it and enjoy it like you just cannot imagine.  Scripture reading challenges my brain like no other book I have ever read, yet it has the most simple principles that are so easy to grasp.  Scripture provides a soothing balm for my soul when I ache.  I have been to hell and back a few times and in moments when I felt like I was drowning in the problems of life and struggling for the next breath, I learned to lean on prayer and scripture reading.   By doing this simple routine I found peace, hope and strength to just keep going.  During sunnier times of my life it has provided me with a wellspring of vitality and joy for living.  I do not place myself on a pedestal and by no means consider myself perfect.  I have character flaws to boot- just ask my family.  I learn from Scripture to never judge others but on the contrary to always show kindness and love.  My daily half hour has given me the strong desire to walk the high road and do the right thing even if it hurts.  Why do I share this?  My heart bleeds when I see people furiously spinning their wheels looking for happiness.  Maybe they'll find it in the next pay grade, relationship or toy, but somehow they always seem to come up empty.  I have found out that peace, hope, strength, and dare I say joy? - Yes!  To overflowing! - is available irrespective of the less than desirable circumstances of life. If you want to read more about this radical and seemingly upside-down way to a full and satisfying life, you must read The Purpose Driven Life by Rick Warren.  I believe in spiritual healing.  I have found that it is the only thing that truly and genuinely satisfies me.

"He who seeks his life will lose it; and he who loses his life for My sake will find it." Matthew 10:39



Have a great day!

What Will You Be Doing When You're 91?

One of the results that I find most impressive from a vegan diet is the boost in longevity one gets.  A vegan diet can help one achieve their ideal body weight, stave off major degenerative diseases, and be stronger and mentally sharper into their later years.  My question today is, What will you be doing when you are 91?  Will you be in a nursing home?  Or will you still be running strong?  Take a look at this man who still is running races at age 91.  Wow, what an inspiration!

Enjoy the Journey!

The Wonder of the Natural World

I never cease to be amazed at the marvelous world we live in.  The perfect synchrony of systems that work seemingly independently of each other but form an incredible symbiotic network when looked upon from a distance, the reciprocal exchange between humans and plant life of oxygen to carbon dioxide, the continual movement of water from streams and rivers to ocean to air and back down again.  The human body!  Have you ever studied Anatomy and Physiology?  Amazing!  The complexity of every living thing - the way everything is inextricably connected in one manner or another - is mind boggling to me. 

I was in art school in San Francisco when an instructor introduced the study of the Golden Ratio.  Have you heard of it?  Wow!  The artistic design that exists in the natural world can be seen by studying the mathematical Golden Ratio, Mean or Section.  It is based on Pi, the number rounded to 3.14.  The unfurling of a flower is based on this ratio, as well as the curvature of a ram's horn, a conch shell or The Milky Way galaxy.  The human body is also designed and measured by this ratio.  Ancient architects, recognizing the balance and beauty of things based on this ratio in the natural world, decided to employ this for their man-made structures. Doing so gave birth to some of the most amazing classical architectural designs that resonate universally with anyone who has eyes to appreciate beauty.

I believe that there is a perfect, beautiful design in the natural world.  It is perfect because that's exactly how God designed it.  Pardon me, it is not my intention to step on anyone's toes who believes otherwise.  With such painstaking precision in the natural world, I just can't believe we bubbled up by chance in some primordial stew.  And it just so happens that when we return to the original plan of eating and living, the effects on the human body are nothing short of miraculous.  

A 70-year-old woman, Annette Larkins, can look fresh, young and youthful. People like Joe Cross and Jon Gabriel who struggled with obesity can easily attain their ideal body weight. Athletes in their 40's like Tim Van Orden can easily outpower athletes in their 20's.  According to Dr. Young, returning to a raw alkaline diet, makes it possible for all manner of diseases to evaporate into thin air. Lives that are burdened with sickness, disease, depression become healthful and happier. Foods provided by the earth, unadulterated by chemicals or processing, give vigor, youthfulness and health to the human body.

Once embarking on this journey, one just can't help but be completely thrilled by the effects.  As crazy as it sounds, you become more keenly aware of your body and how certain foods or emotions affect it.  My senses have become sharper, more alert and more spiritually in tune.  Look for testimonials; it is a theme that repeats itself again and again with people who choose this path. It is an attribute that even surprises those who experience it.

In the next series of posts I will be covering exercise, cancer and  juicing.

Enjoy the Journey!

Limitless - On a Raw Food Diet

A while ago there was an evening when my husband and kids were out, giving me some time to myself, something that hardly ever happens.  Standing in line for Redbox, I asked the man in front of me for a movie recommendation.  He recommended Limitless.  I really have to stop asking strangers for their picks.  I didn't like the film at all but I did come away from it with some thoughts.  In the movie, the protagonist is able to turn his life around by taking a pill.  The pill helped him access all the potential of his brain as opposed to just 20 percent.  After some bumps in the road and run-ins with the authorities and the mafia, he is able to shake off his adversaries and ended up very successful in all areas of his life.

I believe this theme resonates with many Americans.  We want to feel good, alive and energetic.  We want success. Isn't that like human nature, however, to want it all by doing something as simple as taking a pill?  For everything to come easy, no sweat, no work, no sacrifice?  Self satisfaction for a job well done never comes into play, because it has all been handed over.  But what if we were to make the effort?  What could we possibly accomplish if we made radical changes?   Many Americans struggle with lethargy and obesity, wake up with aches and pains and have diseases to boot.  Their minds are in a continual fog and are constantly depressed.  The sad thing is that many accept this as normal or just part of the aging process.  

I'm here to tell you that you do not have to accept these things as normal.  You can have a life that is so different!  These are some of the things I read or hear from people who choose an alkaline plant-based diet.  They report that they have more energy, mental clarity, a calmer state of mind and a more positive outlook.  They experience weight loss, clear luminous skin, healthier hair and nails.  They find that this lifestyle change has enhanced their athletic performance and it's their secret in having an advantage in their sport.  These are athletes that are continually winning races and bodybuilding competitions.  Some even say that aging is no longer a factor when it comes to their performance.  They have stronger endurance, and are able to increase in muscle mass.  Let me reiterate that they have accomplished this on an alkaline, plant-based, raw food diet. (This is a subject for a future post.)  Although you probably won't be able to do math like the man in the film, make millions with a few strategic moves or run for public office, what could you accomplish if you had the clearest mind? What important information could you discern with a razor sharp mind, that might have otherwise slipped your notice with an acidic foggy brain?  Imagine a body unfettered by aches, pains or disease and free from excess weight.  Imagine if you had boundless energy and a positive outlook? What ventures would you undertake?  In this dog-eat-dog world, where looks count for everything and unfair attention is given to those who have "the look", what advantages could you enjoy because of a fit, trim body?   ... Just some food for thought.

In the next series of posts I will be covering topics such as green smoothies, sprouting, pH balance and athletic performance.  Just know that I stick loosely to the schedule and ad-lib as I come across information.  Have a great week!

Enjoy the journey!

A Raw Dinner Invitation / Amazing Raw Food Transformations

This past weekend I had the wonderful pleasure of being invited by close friends for dinner.  My friends' daughter, Becca, prepared the most amazing raw food meal for me and my family.  I have known Becca and her family since she was a little girl and it has been so nice to see her transform into a  lovely young woman.  Here she is with one of the horses she rides.  

I was totally blown away by the invitation.  You see, I write my blog hoping that people are inspired to improve their diet and to improve all habits that lead to health.   It thrills me to no end when I see someone become inspired and they just take off.  Becca and her family are moving full force ahead searching for recipes and experiencing the raw food lifestyle. 

Here is what we had and it was so delicious!  

From RawFoodPassion.com:

Carrot Coconut Ginger Lime Soup 

2 young Thai coconuts

4 limes

6 carrots

1 tsp of fresh ginger 

sea salt to taste 

Directions: Open the coconuts and scoop out the meat, using the meat and the water. Put all of the ingredients into the Vitamix and blend until smooth. Garnish with a lime and enjoy a colorful meal!

From Pure2Raw.com: 

Arugula Pumpkin Seed Pesto Sauerkraut Lasagna 

1 zucchini, large (thinly sliced)

1 large tomato (thinly sliced) 

pumpkin arugula pesto (recipe below)  

as much sauerkraut as you want

Pumpkin Arugula Pesto

about 1 cup fresh arugula

1/3 cup pumpkin seeds (can use sunflower seeds or any nut)

2 garlic cloves (optional)  

1/4 tsp salt (or to taste)  

2 tbsp tahini  

3 tbsp sauerkraut juice (can use lemon or lime juice or apple cider vinegar) 

handful of fresh basil  

2-3 tbsp nutritional yeast

Place all pesto ingredients in your blender* and blend till creamy. 

*may do it in a food processor as well.

From RawFoodPassion.com:

Mango Avocado Spinach Wrap

1/2 cup spinach
1 mango
1 avocado
4 romaine lettuce leaves

Directions: Mash up the avocado, add a little sea salt if you like. Cut up the spinach into thin slices. Take your romaine leaves and put the spinach on first, followed by avocado mash and sliced mangoes. Enjoy!

For dessert we had these delicious coconut truffles.  Melt in your mouth, delicious!  

From RawFoodRecipes.com: 

Mint Chocolate Chip Macaroons

1/2 cup cold-pressed coconut oil

1/2 cup raw honey or agave nectar

3/4 teaspoon peppermint extract

pinch of Himalayan salt

3 tablespoons raw cacao nibs

2 1/2 cups finely shredded coconut

Mix coconut oil, honey, peppermint, salt and cacao nibs in a large bowl.  Pour the coconut into the same bowl and mix well to combine all ingredients.  Scoop round balls onto a cookie sheet or platter or spread into a 9” square baking dish.  Place in the freezer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.  Thaw 15 minutes before serving.  If you opted for the square dish, cut into desired shapes after thawing.

Amazing Raw Food Transformations!

I also wanted to share with you some images that Becca showed me from WeLikeItRaw.com.  These are before and after shots of people who transitioned from a Standard American Diet to a raw food diet.  Some of the before and after shots look like two completely different people.  Click here to view the images.  Excellent post by We Like it Raw!

Enjoy the journey!

My Transition to a Plant Based Diet

I was very blessed to be raised by parents who are health conscious. My father was an avid runner and mountain bicyclist. My mother always strove to feed us the best quality food she could provide. She never bought us soda, candy bars, or sugary treats. If we did have any candy it was because someone else offered it to us. I believe my desire to be as healthy as possible is deeply ingrained in me because of my parents' influence.

When I married a vegetarian, that was all the impetus I needed to become one myself. So for a few years I was a lacto-ovo-vegetarian, meaning I excluded flesh foods, but ate dairy products and eggs – which are still animal products. Let me just say, you can be a “vegetarian” and be extremely unhealthy. Simply because someone omits meat doesn't mean that they are going to be beaming with amazing health! I ate a lot of starches, processed food, and lots of cheese. I would try to include vegetables, but the life was always cooked out of them. Salad wasn't always included when I served dinner. I began toying with the idea of veganism. I finally did go vegan, but I kept wavering back and forth from being a vegan to lacto-ovo-vegetarian.

In the past year and a half I made the latest transition that has made the most amazing changes to my health and wellness. I began including much more raw food in my diet. I gradually increased my raw food intake until after about a year I am at a point where my diet is now 90- 95% raw/vegan. I absolutely love it! My hair, skin, and nails feel so much better now. My mind has become so clear. (This is difficult to describe unless you experience it yourself.) I didn't know I had foggy thinking until I experienced an open and lucid mind by comparison. I also had crow's feet wrinkles by my right eye that began to disappear. Did you get that? My wrinkles disappeared!!! My skin which continually had break outs began to look so healthy and free from blemishes. I feel rejuvenated and happier. For some unexplainable reason I feel like I have a more positive outlook on life. So what made the difference? I made an intentional effort to drastically increase my consumption of dark leafy greens, vegetables, fruits, sprouted grains, soaked nuts, and soaked seeds. I will never go back!

I began my raw journey, not by omitting items and depriving myself of the things I wanted the most, but by crowding my diet with nutrient-rich, organic raw food. I started with green smoothies. (These can taste really great! Don't let the word “green” fool you!) I also prepared a huge salad along with each vegan meal that I cooked for my husband and kids. At mealtime I would fill up on salad first before I continued on to the cooked food. I bought raw food recipe books and began experimenting. Before I knew it I was eating raw all day long. The days turned to weeks and so on. If I ever craved cooked food, I would eat it. Eventually, however, my cravings for cooked food dissipated, and more importantly, my desire to eat junk food went away as well. The key to my success was the freedom to cheat. If I fell off the wagon, I didn't beat myself up. I would just get back on. I started with a cheat weekend which later was reduced to a cheat day. Now, I have a cheat meal and a half once a week. I also cheat while on vacations – it's harder to stay raw while away from home, during holidays, or when dining with friends. (People would laugh at what I consider cheating.) I think that being too strict while beginning a plant based diet can be a recipe for failure. You gotta have a little elbow room and let your body adjust gradually. The exception to that would be if you are sick with a life threatening disease – that warrants strict adherence to a vegan, high raw, alkaline diet.

In the next couple of posts I will be sharing programs and recipe books I have found that help people transition to a  plant based diet. One program I plan to share with you moves fast over the course of six weeks. Another one I'll share moves you to a mostly raw diet over the course of a year. Both plans have phenomenal testimonials from people who have been healed from all kinds of diseases. As always, I hope that what I share here will inspire readers to pursue greater health and wellness.

Enjoy the journey!

Living to the Fullest

Remember being a kid and wanting nothing more than to grow up?  I remember when I just couldn't wait to be older, but time seemed to move like molasses.  When I finally reached those coveted high school and college years, I never gave youthfulness a second thought.  At that point in my life, aging mattered nothing to me because in my mind I would be young forever.

As time passed, I got married and had children.  Then a funny thing happened.  Time, that old bugger, changed on me.  What once moved so slowly, now accelerated to a crazy pace.  Youthfulness, being fresh and young -- you take it for granted when you have it, but when it begins to slip away you realize that time waits for no one.

I just turned 40 this past spring.  Now more than ever, I want to be in control of my destiny, my health, and my youthfulness.  I've heard people say, "You gotta die of something!" and promptly take a drag from their cigarette.  Yes, we all die eventually but we don't have to rush the process.  I want to focus on living, and living to the fullest.  

In the past decade and a half, I have begun a journey toward better health.  I have become excited about a way of living that promotes vibrancy and youthfulness.  I want to share that information with as many people as possible.  We all make choices daily that impact the quality and longevity of our lives.  Once armed with information, we can make a decision about how we want to live.  I don't know about you, but I honestly don't ever want to come to the point where I have to take a myriad of medications and need a little plastic drug container organized by day.  I want to be healthy, strong and lean for years to come.  To be able to live with  zero fear that I might succumb to disease.  Disease prevention, and many times reversal of it, is so possible. I want to look younger than my age -- to have smooth, clear skin.  I want to feel good, light, and contented.  I want to have a sharp, clear mind.  I want positive relationships, positive emotions and thoughts.  This is how I choose to live.  I invite you to join me on this journey.  No matter where you are in life or what your circumstances are, no matter what your age or your health may be, it's never too late to improve the quality of your life and increase your longevity.  Join me in my quest to live beautifully!