Audrey Hepburn and the Importance of Colon Health

 My all time favorite actress is none other than the incomparable Audrey Hepburn.  She is one of those timeless individuals that transcends culture, generational style and fad with her inimitable presence.  If truth be told, if I could choose my looks, I would look like Audrey.  I find her to be along the same ranks as Nefertiti and Helen of Troy.  Audrey has drawn countless admirers with her childlike innocence and captivating doe eyes.  She was different from her contemporaries.  Far from voluptuous, her long and lithe figure was more comparable to that of a ballerina, a fact that she bemoaned calling herself,"skinny" and "flat chested".  No matter, men melted at the sight of her.  Several who knew her personally fell helplessly in love with her.  And oh those clothes!  She forged a friendship with legendary couturier Hubert de Givenchy.  What a partnership!  She was the perfect canvas for him to create such lovely style.  Who can forget those yards of fabric, kitten heels, pill box hats or the forever striking little black dress?  To top all this off, she sought to cultivate a loveliness of character and was most beautiful on the inside!  My kids roll their eyes every time I watch a Hepburn film.  I can't help it!  I just love them!  Funny face, Sabrina and My Fair Lady are among my favorites.  Audrey died of colon cancer.  A condition that is so preventable and sadly is all to common here in the United States.  What do you do if you want to prevent it?

Detoxification should begin in the colon

Doing a detox has become a bit of a fad.  I am not minimizing their importance by any means but I believe that before embarking on any detox program, the first area of the body that should be cleansed is the colon.  Americans are number one in having the poorest digestive systems in the world.  This is as a result of eating fiberless food such as meat, white flour and processed, chemical laden food.  Food passes through the colon at a much slower rate than in other healthier cultures.   Having a bowel movement every other day, every two or three days is not uncommon here in the States.  What happens when one switches to whole, fiber rich plant based diet?  Bowel movements become more frequent.  People from healthy cultures who eat a  plant based diet report having bowel movements between two and three times a day.  A far cry from the reality of that exists amongst Americans.

So what do you do?  Eat plant foods in as close to a natural state as possible.  What if you want faster results?  Do a bowel cleanse.  I think people imagine sticking something up, "where the sun don't shine" in order to cleanse their colons but it is much easier than that when you choose to use herbs.  So why is it important to cleanse the colon?  The colon does not exist within a vaccuum.  It touches so many other organs of the body.  Imagine a colon that is sluggish with fecal matter that slowly passes through.  The toxicity in the colon will seep out and affect other areas of the body.  Clean the colon out and suddenly certain ailments will disappear.  After a colon cleanse, people have reported flatter tummies, clearer skin, migraines gone etc.   Once you clean out the colon, then you can focus on any detox program you may want to try. I recommend Danny Vierra's  or Dr. Schulze' intestinal detoxification programs.

To sign off I wanted to share this brief clip on "Audrey Style"
or this more lengthy documentary for any of you Audrey fans out there. I so enjoy anything, "Audrey!"

Have a great day!

NEW YEAR? NEWSTART!

Update I'm getting busier with work and unfortunately my blogging is falling by the wayside.  So sorry.  I'm juggling a little more these days.

I wanted to let you know about an online nutrition summit with some fantastic guests.  The Future of Nutrition Conference will take place January 27 to 31.  It's sure to be good so don't miss it!

New Year?  New Start!

I have never been one to make a new year's resolution.  I don't like them.  For one, they come around far too infrequently for one to decide to make a change to better one's self.  Another reason is because most people who make them, fail.   I believe that everyday should be an opportunity to improve our lives.  Being that it is the popular thing to do, to make a resolution that is, I thought I would share something I never have.  When I started this blog, I told my husband, "I want to start a blog on the eight natural remedies."  So in the subsequent years, I have covered every topic that is included in the "eight natural remedies."  What I haven't done is share them all at the same time in one post.  What are the eight natural remedies?  This phrase is familiar among Adventists.  Adventists are protestant Christians who started the Seventh Day Adventist Church in the 1800s which are known for being the longest lived culture of the United States.  So in essence, these remedies are our prescription for a long and healthy life.

I have mentioned Adventist Hospitals in this blog.  Yes, we have them and they are very necessary but my heart has a soft spot for the lesser known Adventist clinics and wellness facilities that are fewer and further between.   I love these lesser known centers for health and healing because they  instruct people how to improve their health by implementing simple, affordable habits to achieve a disease free life.  These are the names of the wellness centers that I am familiar with:  Weimar Institute, Wildwood, Uchee Pines Institute, Black Hills and Hartland.  There are more that are unofficial run by individuals who are skilled and knowledgeable about healing using natural methods.  Danny Vierra's Bella Vita is one of these locations.  Several of these places have acronyms to help people remember what these 8 natural remedies are.  The one I know the best is the one by Weimar Institute, NEWSTART.

N- Nutrition

What is recommended is a plant based diet, preferably a vegan diet.   I personally would like to add that one can be vegan and still eat terribly wrong.  One should strive to eat as much fresh, organic, unprocessed  food as possible.  Aiming for at least 75% raw would be ideal.  The remaining should be cooked from scratch.  Seek to eat foods with as many varied colors as the rainbow.

E-Exercise

Exercise is so important.  Unfortunately it seems that it is such a drudgery for so many.  Find something you enjoy doing.  Yes, walking absolutely does count.  Seek to have a 30 minute cardio workout three to five days a week.  Strength training helps to maintain healthy bones and also helps to sculpt and shape the physique.  Exercise also helps to keep one younger and mentally sharper with aging. 

W-Water

Sodas, coffee, juice and other beverages do not and should not take the place of water.  Our bodies are made of approximately 70% water and we need at least 6 to 8 glasses a day to help lubricate it.  Water helps every function of the body to run more smoothly from helping the liver detoxify to thinning our blood easing the heart's burden of pumping it throughout the body.

S-Sunshine

The sun is not the enemy!  I go a little crazy every time I hear about the harmful effects of the sun.  The truth is, most people are vitamin D deficient which increases one susceptibility to the common cold and to cancer.  Do you want to boost your body's immune system, sleep better, stay younger and feel happier?  Then get out into the sun!

How to expose yourself to the sun:

1. Morning or late afternoon exposure is the best.  If you have midday exposure, you will need much less time to get the vitamin D that you need.  Lighter skin requires less time and darker skin requires more time.  When you skin achieves the lightest shade of pink, you have met your requirement for the day.
2.  Increase your body's resistance to burning by saturating your skin with phytonutrients found in raw food.  Drink fresh juices and green smoothies, eat sprouts and lots of fruits and vegetables.  This is what keeps your skin healthier and creates a resistance to burning.
3. Use safe sunscreens.  I cringe every time I see people slather on sun screens like they are doing themselves a favor.  Most on the market are tainted with cancer causing chemicals that are only increasing their chance of getting cancer!  Find better sunscreens that are devoid of these chemicals.  Look for titanium dioxide or zinc oxide as a key ingredient in better sunscreens.
4. Avoid burning and overexposure
Burning plus a body that isn't well nourished is the recipe that will create skin cancer.  Vitamin D helps to keep a body young but overexposure to the sun can cause photo aging of the skin.  Everything in moderation folks!

T-Temperance 

For Adventists this means moderation in all things that are good and complete avoidance on all things that are bad.  The list includes alcohol, tobacco, recreational drugs and caffeine.  I personally would like to add pharmaceutical medications.  Sometimes the latter cannot be avoided such as in emergencies but if a health problem can be overcome by diet and herbs, why tax the body with harmful chemicals?

A-Air

Get fresh air!  There is something about being outside that does something so good for me.  I need to walk or run in the sun everyday even in ice or snow or else I cannot sleep well and am more susceptible to succumbing to a melancholic state of mind.  I love walking in the woods and breathing fresh ionized oxygen.  Gives my psyche such a boost.

R-Rest

I think I need more sleep than most people.  I like to sleep nine hours a night if I can manage it.  I try to be in bed by 9:30 and If I've done everything right to enhance my sleep, I will function well during the day.  I am prone to insomnia and have found that there are somethings I must do so that I can sleep well at night.

Here are my tips:

1.  Spend time in the sun everyday.  I will do my best to get outside regardless of weather.

2.  Try to eat your last meal no later than 5p.m.  A full stomach at bedtime will kill my sleep like nothing else.

3. Sleep in a dark room.  I use black out curtains for a completely dark room.  I cannot tolerate any light at all.

4.  Avoid electronic devices before bedtime.  Any glowing screens will also disrupt my sleep.  I avoid them for at least a couple of hours before bedtime.  I also do not have any alarm clocks, lamps or electrical devices near me while I sleep.

5.  You might think it's hokey but I do ground myself while sleeping.  I believe the science that's been found regarding this new found practice.

6.  This last bit of advice is one I haven't done yet but I plan to eventually.  Use natural bedding.  Conventional mattresses have been created with chemicals that tax the body.  Invest in mattresses that are made with natural materials.

Adventists also observe the Sabbath for 24 hours by refraining from work.  It is a a time for recharging physically, socially and spiritually.

T-Trust

Trust in God.  This is a big one for Adventists.  We take things in stride.  Let go and let God.  Having a supportive community and strong network of friends helps immensely.

If you would like to read more from a woman who had this information way back in the late 1800's, you must read the The Ministry of Healing- E.G.White.  I also really like The Desire of Ages and The Great Controversy by the same author.

Have a great day!

Merry Christmas

Mad King Ludwig -purchased at Kathe Wohlfart

My absolute favorite acquisition from my travels this past fall was a hand carved nutcracker I purchased in Rothenburg, Germany. Rothenburg is an ancient walled city like no other I have ever been in. I mean really, where's Cinderella?

Rothenburg, Germany

I love the nutcracker so much I think I'm going to get a second one exactly like it to have the pair.  It looks so perfect on my console. 
Funny how certain things and smells  can trigger emotions, memories and warm fuzzies.  The nutcracker in and of itself really isn't anything most people would fawn over, but for me it just makes me think of everything cozy about this very special holiday.  I love the crackling fire in the fireplace, the busyness in the kitchen, decorating and above all the time spent with friends and family.  My hope and prayer is that you will also have a wonderful Christmas.  May you enjoy everything that makes this holiday so special!

Have a wonderful Holiday!

The Healing Benefits of Clay

There's nothing like the holiday season to make my head spin with a thousand things to get done.  Today is another full day and I can't just wait for a lull in the schedule. I have to carve out the time or else I'll never get to another post.  So today I want to discuss the medicinal properties of clay, yet another fantastic product of nature that needs to be showcased.  I choose to keep some on hand and have it stored right next to my container of charcoal.  My clay is European Green Clay I purchased from Hope for Health.   If there is one word I would choose to describe clay, it would be detoxification.  Clay is actually aged volcanic ash.  An area that has high concentration of this substance is located in Benton, Wyoming- hence the name, Bentonite Clay.  Never heard of it?  I'm sure you've seen it.  Many facial masks are made with clay.  Clay is by no means limited to facials and is very beneficial in drawing out toxins from the body.  You may be familar with some of the behavioral practices of parrots of Central and South America.  They eat berries and foods that contain toxicity.  In an effort to protect themselves from sickness, they congregate at clay licks.  These birds have an innate knowledge that clay will neutralize the toxicity they ingest from the foods they eat.

The Many Uses Of Clay

Aside from facials and bird clay licks, clay has many uses and can help in several situations.  Clay can help to absorb toxins, heavy metals, impurities and chemicals.  If you have followed this blog for a while, you may remember me stating that maintaining alkilinity in the body is very important.  The way to do this is to eat at least 75% raw.  An alkaline body is one that successfully fights disease and is on the offense when it comes to airborne pathogens, bacteria and invading "bugs".  (Not to mention that this practice would help to reverse a myriad of medical conditions!)  Wouldn't you know, clay actually helps to alkalize the body, just what you need if you are ever sick.  Clay aids in nutrient absorption, helps to neutralize the body from radiation exposure and is rich in minerals.  As a side note, one of the things that was done to help those exposed from the nuclear fallout at Chernobyl in the Soviet Union,  was to mix clay into chocolate bars for the people to eat.  If that wasn't enough, clay has also been shown to fight MRSA and flesh eating bacteria according to this article.  Talk about packing a serious punch!  So often I find that the the overlooked and in this case a substance that is actually tread underfoot contains powerful healing abilities. Yet again, it is a solution that is ignored because of it's lack in profitability. 

Here is more information about clay that might interest you.  Clay helps to cleanse the skin even helping to remove spots left from acne.  It helps the liver in the the process of cleansing the body. It helps to strengthen the immune system and can help in the removal of parasites.  It also has been seen to help with allergies, colitis, viral infections, diabetic neuropathy, diarrhea, stomach ulcers and anemia.  Although clay is seemingly inert, it actually carries a negative electrical charge.  A negative charge coming in contact with the body behaves like an antioxidant help the body to neutralize free radicals and aids in healing the body.

How To Use Clay

When mixing powdered clay with water it is beneficial to not actually mix it.  Because of it's charge, it should be scooped out with a non-metal spoon.  A plastic or wooden spoon should be fine.  I also just pour water onto it slowly until it is aborbed.  I don't even mix it.  Use just enough water to make a paste or poultice to use externally or a few tablespoons of it in a full glass of water to drink as a slurry.  This past summer I used clay on my son's face when he got poison ivy.  Clay will not stain the skin like charcoal can.  (I also use clay for bee stings.)  Another tip to remember is to try not to use natural remedies on a day to day, regular basis. You do not want your body to become accustomed to an herb or treatment rendering it ineffective when you really need it.

Happy Holidays

Okay, I think this time sitting down at the computer has helped me catch my breath from my pre-Christmas whirlwind of activity.  I love this time of year and enjoy getting together with family, baking cookies and making the house sparkle with holiday decor.  Obviously we do not have crown roast for our christmas meal but do it  veggie-Guatemalan style.  My mom takes the lead with our help and makes vegetarian tamales which is an all day group effort.  My husband and kids absolutely love it!  Once a year do we enjoy this very fun, festive activity.  My kids count the days and we all revel in every aspect of this time of year.  Hope you are enjoying this season as well!

Have a great day!

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!

The End Of Antibiotics?

I have mentioned my concern for the increasing prevalence of antibiotic resistant superbugs on this blog.  I saw this very important article which include an excellent PBS documentary and had to share it.  Not only are there virulent strains of bugs that have become stronger than the antibiotics we have on the market, but pharmaceutical companies no longer plan to invest in making any new ones.  Not enough profit to make it worth it to them.  The implications are serious to say the least.  It is for this reason I have been emphatic that we become familiar with "antibiotics" we can find in nature.  Two I have mentioned are garlic and oregano (used in conjunction with hydrotherapy. ) Please take the time to read this article and strongly consider self-educating in regards to natural remedies.  I believe it very well may be what we need to fall back on in the future.

Coming up soon:  Natural Remedy- Bentonite Clay

Finding Health Food in Europe and a Gluten Free Summit

I loved this bike I saw in Winterswijk, Holland

I have returned home and as I much as I love to travel, I love coming home.  Nothing like the coziness of my own house and bed.  When I left on this trip I wondered what I would encounter food-wise.  I knew that Europeans are more conscious of gmo's and having more healthful ingredients but sourcing food that is both gluten-free and vegan can be a challenge.  To be honest, I did fall off the vegan wagon. (I tend to fall off when I travel.)

 I was invited for a meal a few times and when someone offers me hospitality and makes the effort of preparing a meal that is gluten-free, vegetarian but not vegan, I would rather err on the side of kindness and eat what they offer.  Sure my stomach was resentful but I popped a few charcoal pills and all was good.  Here are some grocery stores that carry healthful alternatives in Europe.

Reformhaus is a high quality healthfood store I found to be most prevalent in Europe.  I was able to locate this grocery store in Germany, Switzerland and The Netherlands.  I wanted to take a shot of the interior but a lady scolded me, "nein! nein!"  Fine, I won't take a picture!

Edeka is also a German company which isn't exclusively a health food store but carries a lot of health food selections.

Italy was a bit of a challenge.  My husband and I joined a group of his colleagues for a continuing educational tour on the reformation so with such a tight schedule, we did not have the freedom to search for health food stores.  There was a grocery store walking distance from our Hotel and we had no trouble finding dairy free milk.  As for gluten free, the Italians prepare vegetables very deliciously.  In Italy I ate potatoes, rice and vegetables and all manner of variations using these three types of foods.

In Prague, Czech Republic, we ran into Adventist owned Country Life Restaurant and Health Food Store.

There is no way I can provide a complete list of health food stores but if you are traveling to Europe, you could always search Yelp.

Just a note to let you know that there is a gluten-free summit going on now.  Check out their facebook page to tune in.

Have a great day!