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I need a really great idea, so I'm going through my ritual:
1. Set intention.
2. Drink 1 drop of Iris flower essence in water - I love the way it stimulates creativity!
3. Turn on good music (tonight it's Prince MPLSound & ethnic drumming)
4. Do Tai Chi for an hour or so - gets the energy flowing and unblocks everything
5. Dream and see what happens, I know it will be fabulous!
Good night.
UPDATE: 6/11/09
After doing this, over the next week I had 3 incredible ideas - more than I expected and EXACTLY what I needed!
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Essential Oil Travel Spray
Lauren posted this back in November after going to China, but so many people have asked for it recently I'm re-posting it again. It's GREAT on airplanes to ward off germs in the air around you. Be sure to spray it on yourself - not others.
1 oz. spritzer bottle filled with water
Tea Tree 6 drops
Frankincense 5 drops
Eucalyptus 2 drops
Lavender 8 drops
Rose Geranium 1 drop
SHAKE WELL BEFORE EACH USE
(Also makes a great bathroom spray)
(Also makes a great bathroom spray)
Fear of Swine Flu?
In light of all the fear being spread about Swine Flu and other diseases, I would like to provide the following quote. Dr. Edward Bach is the founder of the Bach Flower Remedies. His insight below, from 1931, is extremely valid right now. Enjoy!
Dr. Edward Bach on the fear of disease:
"In this age the fear of disease has developed until it has become a great power for harm, because it opens the door to those things we dread and makes it easier for their admission. Such fear is really self-interest, for when we are earnestly absorbed in the welfare of others there is no time to be apprehensive of personal maladies. Fear at the present time is playing a great part in intensifying disease, and modem science has increased the reign of terror by spreading abroad to the general public its discoveries, which as yet are but half-truths.
The knowledge of bacteria and the various germs associated with disease has played havoc in the minds of tens of thousands of people, and by the dread aroused in them has in itself rendered them more susceptible of attack. While lower forms of life, such as bacteria, may play a part in or be associated with physical disease, they constitute by no means the whole truth of the problem, as can be demonstrated scientifically or by everyday occurrences. There is a factor which science is unable to explain on physical grounds, and that is why some people become affected by disease while others escape, although both classes may be open to the same possibility of infection. Materialism forgets that there is a factor above the physical plane which in the ordinary course of life protects or renders susceptible any particular individual with regard to disease, of whatever nature it may be.
Fear, by its depressing effect on our mentality, thus causing disharmony in our physical and magnetic bodies, paves the way for invasion, and if bacteria and such physical means were the sure and only cause of disease, then indeed there might be but little encouragement not to be afraid. But when we realise that in the worst epidemics only a proportion of those exposed to infection are attacked and that, as we have already seen, the real cause of disease lies in our own personality and is within our control, then have we reason to go about without dread and fearless, knowing that the remedy lies with ourselves. We can put all fear of physical means alone as a cause of disease out of our minds, knowing that such anxiety merely renders us susceptible, and that if we are endeavouring to bring harmony into our personality we need anticipate illness no more than we dread being struck by lightning or hit by a fragment of a falling meteor."
Dr. Edward Bach in “Heal Thyself”, 1931
The knowledge of bacteria and the various germs associated with disease has played havoc in the minds of tens of thousands of people, and by the dread aroused in them has in itself rendered them more susceptible of attack. While lower forms of life, such as bacteria, may play a part in or be associated with physical disease, they constitute by no means the whole truth of the problem, as can be demonstrated scientifically or by everyday occurrences. There is a factor which science is unable to explain on physical grounds, and that is why some people become affected by disease while others escape, although both classes may be open to the same possibility of infection. Materialism forgets that there is a factor above the physical plane which in the ordinary course of life protects or renders susceptible any particular individual with regard to disease, of whatever nature it may be.
Fear, by its depressing effect on our mentality, thus causing disharmony in our physical and magnetic bodies, paves the way for invasion, and if bacteria and such physical means were the sure and only cause of disease, then indeed there might be but little encouragement not to be afraid. But when we realise that in the worst epidemics only a proportion of those exposed to infection are attacked and that, as we have already seen, the real cause of disease lies in our own personality and is within our control, then have we reason to go about without dread and fearless, knowing that the remedy lies with ourselves. We can put all fear of physical means alone as a cause of disease out of our minds, knowing that such anxiety merely renders us susceptible, and that if we are endeavouring to bring harmony into our personality we need anticipate illness no more than we dread being struck by lightning or hit by a fragment of a falling meteor."
Dr. Edward Bach in “Heal Thyself”, 1931
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
My Breakfast
This morning was one of those days that my food was SOOO GOOOD I have to talk about it. As the nutrition course instructor I guess I'm expected to eat a certain way, but no matter how healthy, strange, or exotic my food is, I have one huge rule: IT MUST TASTE GOOD!
First, I made a fresh juice of:
1/2 beet with the green tops
3 1/2 apples (I would have used 4 but my kids ate the other 1/2)
3 carrots
7 drops of a kidney yang herbal tonic
1 drop of Cayenne flower essence
Then as I was looking at the other 1/2 of the beet and not wanting to put it away, I chopped it up with the greens and sauteed it in a little ghee (Indian clarified butter) and ume plum vinegar. This went on top of a piece of toast with a quick spritz of black pepper.
MMMMMMMMMMMM!!!!!!!!! Sometimes beets are so underrated!
First, I made a fresh juice of:
1/2 beet with the green tops
3 1/2 apples (I would have used 4 but my kids ate the other 1/2)
3 carrots
7 drops of a kidney yang herbal tonic
1 drop of Cayenne flower essence
Then as I was looking at the other 1/2 of the beet and not wanting to put it away, I chopped it up with the greens and sauteed it in a little ghee (Indian clarified butter) and ume plum vinegar. This went on top of a piece of toast with a quick spritz of black pepper.
MMMMMMMMMMMM!!!!!!!!! Sometimes beets are so underrated!
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Eucalyptus Essential Oil
According to different sources, there are between 500-700 varieties of the eucalyptus tree. This is one reason there are so many eucalyptus essential oils to choose from. The one thing they all have in common is that they work to open and clear the lungs.
Eucalyptus essential oil is great when diffused into the air. It can also be used topically in diluted blends, but should not be taken orally.
The following are some of the common varieties of Eucalyptus Essential Oil that points out subtle differences in them. My favorite White Sage Landing essential oil stock will vary according to high quality organic oils that are available during each growing season.
Eucalyptus globulus: (aka blue gum) respiratory tract infections, arthritis, wounds, purifying the air. One of the most common types.
Eucalyptus citriodora: lemony, cooling, wind-heat (yellow mucous), insect repellent, mild so good choice for children.
Eucalyptus radiatta or E. australiana: (aka Eucalyptus – Peppermint) menthol, infections of sinus, ear, and kidney, vaginitis. Very gentle.
Eucalyptus dives: strongest topical medicinal value but becoming rare and difficult to find good quality. Eucalyptus macarthii is a good substitute.
Eucalyptus polybractea: (aka blue mallee) antimicrobial, expectorant, coughs and throat infections.
Eucalyptus macarthii: great disinfector, joint and muscle pain, respiratory cleanser.
Eucalyptus smithii: diffuse to clear environment of molds and bacteria.
Learn tons of great information from my On-Line Essential Oils Course series. You can study here at our school in Alaska from anywhere in the world!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Taoist 5 Elements Nutrition - Spring
Even though we might not think about it much, the food we eat is a form of medicine in that everything that goes into us has some kind of effect on our body – either therapeutic or harmful, it does something to us. We can begin to look at our diet (lifestyle eating habits) as a powerful way to change our health. From a mind-body-spirit viewpoint, food can be used to affect our physical bodies, our emotions, and our sense of purpose in life.
According to Taoist philosophy and Chinese medicine, the Spring season most strongly affects our Wood Element. This includes our physical Liver, the emotions of anger-frustration-resentment, how we respond to stress, and the spiritual potential of being kind and benevolent. Our Liver stores and cleans toxins out of our blood, so it is very important “spring clean” and support our Liver during this season.When our Liver is clogged up or over saturated with toxins that have built up we can experience a variety of health problems like food intolerances, digestive discomfort, physical pain, moodiness, PMS, deteriorating eyesight, finger and toe nail issues, too much anger, and being overly sensitive to daily stress.
Here are some nutritional suggestions for Spring, Liver/Gall Bladder health, and overall lifestyle considerations:
Suggestion #1: ENJOY your food! What fun is it to eat in a way that isn’t delicious and satisfying? This is all too easy to do with things that are fat and sweet, but what about things that are just good for you, like fruits and vegetables? When you eat healthy, think about how wonderful you are being to yourself.
Suggestion #2: Consciously let your food stimulate all of your senses. For example:
Touch/Feel – cut and prepare your food in a way that feels good to your mouth. Do you love to bite into a whole fresh strawberry, or do you tingle all the way down to your fingertips when you eat chopped strawberry pieces on top of hot oatmeal?
See – use several colors together so that when you look at your food it reminds you of a beautiful painting. Imagine a bright green salad with a little bit of chopped white chicken, deep yellow mango chunks, and a pop of little red cherry tomatoes.
Smell – incorporate your favorite spices so that you savor the smell. Pears sprinkled with ground cardamom… mmmm….
Hear – play some nice background music while you eat. Classical, jazz, or acoustic guitar can create the perfect atmosphere.
Taste – mindfully delight in the flavor of your food. Add some fresh home-grown Basil to a salad or pasta sauce, close your eyes, and thoroughly relish each bite.
Mind – use your sixth sense as an intention to allow your body to absorb all of the healing energy from your food. When you eat fresh greens, chew them well, swallow, and feel their energy washing over your Liver.
If you need any help in this area, watch one of the cooking shows on TV and see how the famous chef’s present beautiful scrumptious works of art on their plates.
Suggestion #3: Try to use locally grown organic foods that are naturally growing from the Earth right now. For Spring this is mainly leafy greens and baby vegetables. From your own yard pick some dandelion leaves (that have not been treated with chemicals), wash them, and either put them in a salad or pour some boiling water over a handful to make an infused herbal tea.
Suggestion #4: A fresh juice of carrots and apples is great for your liver! If you have a home juicer, use 4 carrots, 1 apple, and add a few sprigs of parsley (makes 1 serving). If you don’t have a home juicer, get a chair massage at The Oriental Healing Arts Center then walk across the parking lot to Organic Oasis Restaurant and they will make a great fresh juice for you.
Suggestion #5: Goji berries, also known as Gou Qi Zi in Chinese medicine, are becoming popular and easy to find. Very healing to the Liver (when used in moderation as opposed to excess), they are a great edible “herb”. Cook a tablespoon into your oatmeal, or sauté a small handful with chicken or green beans and walnuts. (available at The Oriental Healing Arts Center)
Suggestion #6: Use the “51% Rule”. With all of the above suggestions, try to do these things 51% of the time. Too great a change can lead to frustration or failure, while incorporating a smaller change can still give you good results and you can realistically succeed!
To learn more about cooking with edible herbs for Spring/Liver health, sign up for my workshop on Saturday May 16, 4-6pm. (see details at www.touchoftao.com)
According to Taoist philosophy and Chinese medicine, the Spring season most strongly affects our Wood Element. This includes our physical Liver, the emotions of anger-frustration-resentment, how we respond to stress, and the spiritual potential of being kind and benevolent. Our Liver stores and cleans toxins out of our blood, so it is very important “spring clean” and support our Liver during this season.When our Liver is clogged up or over saturated with toxins that have built up we can experience a variety of health problems like food intolerances, digestive discomfort, physical pain, moodiness, PMS, deteriorating eyesight, finger and toe nail issues, too much anger, and being overly sensitive to daily stress.
Here are some nutritional suggestions for Spring, Liver/Gall Bladder health, and overall lifestyle considerations:
Suggestion #1: ENJOY your food! What fun is it to eat in a way that isn’t delicious and satisfying? This is all too easy to do with things that are fat and sweet, but what about things that are just good for you, like fruits and vegetables? When you eat healthy, think about how wonderful you are being to yourself.
Suggestion #2: Consciously let your food stimulate all of your senses. For example:
Touch/Feel – cut and prepare your food in a way that feels good to your mouth. Do you love to bite into a whole fresh strawberry, or do you tingle all the way down to your fingertips when you eat chopped strawberry pieces on top of hot oatmeal?
See – use several colors together so that when you look at your food it reminds you of a beautiful painting. Imagine a bright green salad with a little bit of chopped white chicken, deep yellow mango chunks, and a pop of little red cherry tomatoes.
Smell – incorporate your favorite spices so that you savor the smell. Pears sprinkled with ground cardamom… mmmm….
Hear – play some nice background music while you eat. Classical, jazz, or acoustic guitar can create the perfect atmosphere.
Taste – mindfully delight in the flavor of your food. Add some fresh home-grown Basil to a salad or pasta sauce, close your eyes, and thoroughly relish each bite.
Mind – use your sixth sense as an intention to allow your body to absorb all of the healing energy from your food. When you eat fresh greens, chew them well, swallow, and feel their energy washing over your Liver.
If you need any help in this area, watch one of the cooking shows on TV and see how the famous chef’s present beautiful scrumptious works of art on their plates.
Suggestion #3: Try to use locally grown organic foods that are naturally growing from the Earth right now. For Spring this is mainly leafy greens and baby vegetables. From your own yard pick some dandelion leaves (that have not been treated with chemicals), wash them, and either put them in a salad or pour some boiling water over a handful to make an infused herbal tea.
Suggestion #4: A fresh juice of carrots and apples is great for your liver! If you have a home juicer, use 4 carrots, 1 apple, and add a few sprigs of parsley (makes 1 serving). If you don’t have a home juicer, get a chair massage at The Oriental Healing Arts Center then walk across the parking lot to Organic Oasis Restaurant and they will make a great fresh juice for you.
Suggestion #5: Goji berries, also known as Gou Qi Zi in Chinese medicine, are becoming popular and easy to find. Very healing to the Liver (when used in moderation as opposed to excess), they are a great edible “herb”. Cook a tablespoon into your oatmeal, or sauté a small handful with chicken or green beans and walnuts. (available at The Oriental Healing Arts Center)
Suggestion #6: Use the “51% Rule”. With all of the above suggestions, try to do these things 51% of the time. Too great a change can lead to frustration or failure, while incorporating a smaller change can still give you good results and you can realistically succeed!
To learn more about cooking with edible herbs for Spring/Liver health, sign up for my workshop on Saturday May 16, 4-6pm. (see details at www.touchoftao.com)
Thursday, March 5, 2009
More Hospitals Now Offer Complimentary Alternative Medicine
A career in Complimentary Alternative Medicine includes Massage Therapy, Acupuncture, Chiropractic and more. At The Oriental Healing Arts Center, we all love our jobs! This link is to a great article on how a career in this field is expanding in hospitals, offering wider employement opportunities and income options. Why? Because the public loves us!! (And we love them too!)
http://www.nursezone.com/nursing-news-events/more-features.aspx?ID=18812
http://www.nursezone.com/nursing-news-events/more-features.aspx?ID=18812
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