Happy New Year!

Happy New Year!!

May 2017 be the year that all your dreams come true!

May this year be filled with joy, love, laughter, health, prosperity and success!

All my love

Georgette

George Michael - Careless Whisper (Official Video)

R.I.P beautiful man

Holiday Meals Got You Bloated? Here's What To Do

 The holidays are here and that means our calendars are loaded with celebrations, food is aplenty, and it becomes easy to let our eating habits run wild. And while we want to enjoy all of the delights of the season, we know that the food we eat is directly linked to the strength of our digestive health and our immune system's ability to protect us. As a naturopathic doctor, it's my job to help my patients find balance. 

Moderation is always key in healthy digestion, but avoiding key trigger foods can also help; gluten, dairy, and sugar are the most common foods that create gut issues—everything from acid reflux to bloating to indigestion—for my patients.

Prepare your gut for those big holiday meals.

If you are eating some of these common inflammatory foods or happen to overindulge, have no fear. Here are some recommendations for preventing digestive distress and relieving any symptoms you might be experiencing.

1. Apple cider vinegar

Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar is great to take with your first bite of food, as it will give your stomach some extra acid to help break down your food. Most people actually start producing lower levels of stomach acid as they begin to age, so the ACV helps increase acid and will stimulate the closing of our lower esophageal sphincter (the valve between our stomach and esophagus). This can help prevent stomach acid from back-flowing into our esophagus, which is the primary cause of acid reflux.

2. Probiotics

Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that act as the first defenders in our gut and immune system. These bugs help break food down into small particles so we can utilize the nutrients and also protect us from harmful bacteria, viruses, and fungi. I always recommend taking probiotics at the end of a meal with a full stomach.

Bloated and uncomfortable? Here's what to do.

If you didn't have time for the preventative measures above and you helped yourself to a second piece of fruit cake, then here are a few go-tos for acid reflux, gas, and bloating.

1. Activated charcoal for stomach discomfort.

Activated charcoal is usually made from coconut husks and acts like a sponge, attracting the nasty effects (like bloating) of overindulgence. It's available as a capsule and is oftentimes even added to beverages at your favorite juice bar or healthy grocery store.

2. Slippery elm, marshmallow root, or chamomile to sooth the intestines.

Any of these teas can be very helpful for calming an upset stomach. The slippery elm and marshmallow root help decrease inflammation in the gut and can soothe the mucous membranes of the intestines. This can provide much needed relief from painful acid reflux or uncomfortable bloating.

3. Herbal bitters to support the body's own digestive processes.

Digestive herbal bitters are very helpful before or after a meal to improve digestion. Some common digestive bitters include fennel, anise, ginger, milk thistle, cardamom, and turmeric. The goal of bitters is to help with the body's own production of enzymes and bile, which work to break down food and absorb nutrients more efficiently. A good complex of bitters can also help calm the tissue in the intestines. All herbs have unique functions in the GI tract, but together they provide a synergistic effect that works great for many people.

The holidays are a wonderful time of year, but they can easily disrupt our normal routine and bring us face-to-face with many foods we wouldn't normally eat. By taking some simple extra steps to prevent digestive upset and calm our bellies, we can smile, relax, and fully enjoy this time.

Merry Christmas

Do they Know it's Christmas ~ Band Aid 1984

Morning Yoga Workout - Better than the Gym - Strength & Stretch

 

Bob Marley - Everything's Gonna Be Alright

Sage Oil Has Been 'Saving' Lives for a Very Long Time

History shows that the sage plant possesses the longest record of use as a culinary and medicinal herb. Even today this perennial plant has numerous functions. When converted to an essential oil, sage provides even more benefits — learn more facts and trivia about sage oil.

What Is Sage Oil?

Sage essential oil comes from the steam distilled leaves of the herb sage or Salvia officinalis. Also known as garden sage, Dalmation sage, true sage and common sage,1 this herb gets its name from the Latin word "salvere," which means "to save,"2and is best known for its therapeutic properties.

The plant is native to southern European regions and nations surrounding the Mediterranean sea, particularly Greece and Yugoslavia.3

Accounts show that the Romans and Greeks had a high regard for sage and even considered it sacred. During the ancient times, sage was used to preserve meat and prevent other foods from spoiling.4

According to historical accounts, sage oil was considered good for both the body and mind. Sage essential oil is often compared to clary sage (Salvia sclarea). While they both come from the same evergreen shrub family, they are very different from each other.

Both oils have a pale yellow-green color, but sage has a strong, spicy scent, while clary sage has a sweet, nutty aroma. Because sage oil may trigger sensitizations in some, clary sage oil is often used as a substitute to it because of its milder nature.5

Uses of Sage Oil

From being used as a treatment for common conditions like digestive problems to being added to skincare and cosmetic products, sage oil has a wide range of functions. Some of them are:6,7,8

Treatment for health conditions — Sage oil is primarily used to help relieve digestive problems. It can also be used to help treat respiratory problems, menstrual difficulties, fungal infections and skin problems.

Hair conditioner — Sage oil contains beneficial properties that help address dandruff and oily hair. It can also be used as a shampoo because of its cleansing effects.

Skin moisturizer — The oil of sage is often used to help slow down signs of aging like wrinkles and sagging skin. It is also added to skin care products like anti-mark and anti-spot creams, which help prevent cracks, scars and other unwanted marks on skin.

Laxative — It is used to trigger excretion and help relieve constipation.

Stimulant — In aromatherapy, this oil can is used to stimulate the mind and help address mental fatigue and depression.

Fragrance — Sage oil is added to soaps, colognes, and perfumes because of its strong, fragrant scent.

Composition of Sage Oil

There are several varieties of sage oil, depending on certain factors like geographical location, climate, part of the plant used and method of extraction.9

A predominant component of all types is thujone (about 22 to 61 percent).10 Thujone has been a subject of debate among many experts because of its negative effect on the nervous system. Research shows that it can cause convulsions and tend to be hallucinogenic.11

However, when used appropriately and in correct amounts, sage oil does not induce these effects. Other major constituents found in the essential oil of sage include camphor, 1,8-cineole and camphene.12

Benefits of Sage Oil

Sage essential oil provides several benefits from a wide range of properties. It functions as an effective antibacterial agent, helping inhibit the growth of bacterial infections.

In a study published in the Brazilian Journal of Microbiology,13 it was found that the essential oils of eucalyptus, juniper, mint, rosemary, sage, clove and thyme possessed antimicrobial properties against Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci and E. coli strains.

Of all the tested oils, the researchers found that thyme and sage essential oil showed the best results against the said strains of bacteria.

In another study,14 which tested the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of rosemary and sage oils on several bacterial and fungal strains, it was found that both oils had potent activities against E. coli, Salmonella typhi, S. enteritidis and Shigella sonei.

In addition to these, sage essential oil has been successful in helping treat a number of health problems that affect the nervous system, heart and blood pressure, respiratory system and digestive system, as well as metabolic and endocrine conditions.15 Other possible benefits provided by sage oil include:16

Antiseptic properties that make it ideal for cleaning wounds, surgical incisions, sores and ulcers

Reduces the effects of exposure to toxins and narcotics, and consumption of excessively salty or spicy foods

Helps reduce inflammation of the skin, gut and excretory tracts

Assists in the metabolism of food by promoting the production of bile and gastric juices in the digestive system

Helps regulate menstrual cycles and activates hormones like estrogen

Stimulates the brain, nervous system, liver and circulatory and excretory systems

 

How to Make Sage Oil

As previously mentioned, the oil in sage is obtained through steam distillation. This process helps preserve sage's beneficial compounds and uses only heat and water. Be wary of cheap oils, as these often contain additional solvents that may irritate your skin.17

Like with other herbal oils, you can also make your own sage oil at home. Here's a step-by-step guide from eHow:18

What You Need:

• Fresh sage plant
• Freezer bag
• Glass jar
• Carrier oil, like olive oil
• Funnel
• Rubber mallet
• Strainer
• Colored glass container

Procedure:

1. Place a cup of fresh sage into the freezer bag. After squeezing the air out, seal the bag and pound the bag using a rubber mallet.
2. Place the crushed sage into a wide-mouthed glass container and add half a cup of carrier oil. Seal it tightly and place the jar where it can stay warm (where sun can touch it). Leave it alone for 48 hours.
3. Strain the oil from the mixture and transfer the oil back to the jar. Discard the sage leaves.
4. To create a more potent formula, repeat the first three steps.
5. Place the sage oil into the colored glass container to slow its aging process. It can stay fresh for a year if placed in a cabinet, or longer if stored in the refrigerator.

How Does Sage Oil Work?

Sage oil is like any other essential oil — it must first be diluted with a carrier oil before use. An unadulterated essential oil can cause skin irritations.

There are several ways to use sage essential oil. In aromatherapy, it is used through a vaporizer. When inhaled, this essential oil can help calm the nerves and stimulate the senses. As a massage oil or used in the bath, it can help relax muscles. It can even help women cope with menstrual problems. Sage oil can also be applied topically but with much caution to avoid adverse effects.

Although sage oil is generally regarded as safe (GRAS) for internal consumption by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA),19 it, like other essential oils, should never be taken internally without the supervision of an experienced health care professional.

Is Sage Oil Safe?

Sage oil is dangerous only when used in high concentrations. Its thujone content, which is considered hazardous when isolated, does not pose any problem for its users if the oil is used moderately. Among other herbs that contain this chemical compound, sage is considered the most commonly used and safest.20 However, it is because of thujone that it shouldn't be used by people with sensitivities, or by children of all ages.

People who drink alcohol should avoid using sage oil, as it can heighten their intoxication. Pregnant women (the oil can cause uterine contractions) and nursing women (it can slow down breast milk production) should also avoid using it.21 Because it works as a stimulant, people with epilepsy or hysteria should also avoid using this essential oil.22

To check if you are a good candidate to benefit from this essential oil, I suggest consulting a qualified aromatherapy practitioner or physician first.

Side Effects of Sage Oil

Sage oil should not be used or applied topically on the skin of individuals with skin problems because of potential irritations. Other reported side effects include inflammation of lips and lining of the mouth, kidney problems, rapid heartbeat, seizures, tremors, vertigo, vomiting and wheezing.23 To avoid the potential skin problems, I suggest using clary sage oil, which possesses similar beneficial properties but is milder.

http://articles.mercola.com/herbal-oils/sage-oil.aspx

Knee Exercises to Strenghen Muscles around the Patella to Avoid Knee Pain

What is Astral Projection?

Lately I have had a lot of people asking me about astral projection and wanting to know what it is all about and how to do it.

I have not yet astral projected in this lifetime, so I am writing this article not from experience but from what I have read over the years.

A few years ago I really wanted to learn how to astral project, so I studied and practiced every night but with little success. Eventually I gave up and figured it would happen when I was ready.

Here is what I know about astral projection-

What is Astral Projection?

To put it simply, astral projection is when your soul leaves your body and gets to travel around this dimension and into other dimensions. When you are travelling, your soul can go anywhere and meet anyone, including higher vibrational beings and lower vibrational beings.

When your soul leaves your body, it is attached to a cord. This cord is your lifeline back into your body. When you die, it is this cord that becomes detached that allows your soul to forever be free of your physical body.

Is Astral Projection Dangerous?

If your soul is out of your body and only attached by a cord, you are probably wondering if it is dangerous. The straight up answer to this question is yes.

While it is very unlikely your cord will be cut or detached from your body, when you are astral travelling you can encounter all types of beings. These include lower vibrational beings who may try to suck your energy or confuse you when you are heading back to your body.

All this means is that if you are going to astral project, you need to ensure that you are well protected by your angels and guides.

How Do You Astral Project?

Your soul does not really want to leave its body, so astral projection can be difficult. The first and most important step is to ensure that your room is well protected and that your energy is vibrating on a high frequency.

Astral projection works best when you are feeling drowsy. In fact, astral projection happens in that magic moment just before you fall into the first stage of sleep.

Lie down in a comfortable position making sure your physical body is properly covered so it is warm and comfortable.

Allow yourself to drift off to sleep, but in that moment just when you feel yourself falling asleep, try to keep your mind alert without waking up the rest of your body. This can be tricky to do, but basically it requires you to stay completely relaxed, but aware of your entire body.

 

One technique to help you with this stage is to look at the colors behind your eyes. You may start to see them making shapes or patterns. By focusing on these colors and patterns, it will help you to stay aware of the fact that you are sleeping.

Once you have mastered this stage, you will start feeling a vibration or a buzzing. This buzzing means that your soul has separated from the body but is still inside of it. To astral project, you need to get your soul up and out of your body.

Allow the buzzing to get louder and stronger, and start preparing yourself to shift out of your body. You may have to put some effort into manifesting your soul to get out.

This does take time and practice, but once your soul is out you should be able to look back at your body and see yourself sleeping.

Once you are out, there is no limit on where you can go and what you can do. Just be aware that astral travel can be draining to your physical body so keep this in mind if you are just starting out.

When you are astral travelling, you can also go back to your body anytime using the power of your mind.

How Can You Stop Astral Projection?

If you are astral projected unconsciously, this is actually referred to as an out of body experience.

If you are having frequent out of body experiences it is usually a sign of trauma or spiritual awakening. The best way to stop out of body experiences is through grounding your energy and coming to acceptance with your physical reality. Going to bed on a full stomach can also help to curb out of body experiences.

Do You Recommend Astral Projection?

Astral projection sounds like an amazing and fun experience, but personally I would be hesitant to force the experience.

If my soul wanted to leave my body and travel around the astral fields while I was still conscious, then great. But if not, then I trust in that.

This doesn’t mean that I won’t ever try again or put my requests out to the Universe for this experience, but this is just my feeling about it. (Maybe I would be saying something different if I had actually experienced it!)

At the end of the day, if it feels like something that is important to you, or if it feels right, then by all means, try it out!

Hopefully this will give you a good starting point to astral projection. Please feel free to share your questions or personal experiences with astral projection in the comment section below.

by Tanaaz

http://foreverconscious.com/what-is-astral-projection

According To Native American Legend, THIS Is Where Your Soul Goes When You Dream

Have you ever wondered just how important your dreams are?

While some people write off their dreams as just the crazy things that happen when they sleep, there are others who are very attuned with the dream world: Native Americans. And dreams are a highly important factor in their culture.

Young Native children are taught to remember their dreams as best they can, so they might use them as guidance, and as a window into their own mind.

Dreams are incredibly significant to Native American culture because they believe that part of the soul leaves the body when one transitions into the dream world.

According to Natives, every person on Earth has three souls, not just a single one. The first is the ego-soul, which manifests as breath.

Then, there's the body-soul, which is what gives our body life and energy when we are part of the waking world.

Finally, we have the free-soul. The free-soul is believed by Natives to leave the physical body when one dreams.

This is the part of one's soul that travels to other dimensions as the other two stay back with the physical body.

The Dream World

Native Americans maintain that our minds do not actually dream in the capacity that we think they do. The body doesn't either.

Instead, the free-soul disconnects to travel an entire new realm where it can come in contact with other human souls. In this world, we can speak to non-humans as well.

The dream world exists just as the physical world does, and we can learn more about the other by opening up to the experiences of both.

A large theme in Native philosophy includes the understanding that all of life is one giant dream.

 

To Natives, the dreamworld was just as important as the physical world; both of them reminders of the impermanent nature of life.

The spirits and souls that guide every person can communicate with us in the dream world, and they often do so through symbolic interactions and events.

It is during our dream state that we are able to both receive and transmit spiritual and psychic information. Natives regularly seek insight into their dreams from Elders.

Elders interpret their dreams and offer advice as to what their spirit guide is trying to tell them, just as we use therapists and other medical professionals to help us understand the problems of the physical word.

Understanding dreams differently

Dreams are where we find guidance and connect with the spirit.

Dream world is just another plane of existence that our souls travel to when we sleep, but we use it to further our understandings of ourselves so that we might grow.

Our spirit guides cannot directly influence the growth of one's soul. So, it is in the dream world that they use symbolism to communicate the messages of guidance they want to send.

If we choose to believe what the Natives believe, then there is no denying the importance of one's dreams.

We should do our best to remember them, and reflect on them, because they serve a purpose: to help guide us through the hardships of the physical realm.

http://www.higherperspectives.com/native-american-legend-2080271717.html?page=1

Small Shifts To Heal Chronic Stress

Chronic stress, anxiety, and depression are the cause of two-thirds of doctor's office visits due to stressful jobs, lives, relationships, etc.

We live in an overstimulated, overachieving, high-strung society and that's caused us all to be STRESSED.

We are never good enough unless we are skinnier, make more money, have a bigger house, and have more things. We are maxing out our credit cards both literally and figuratively in life.

We have to keep working more to fund our debt and overleveraged life—it's a vicious cycle.

We drink more caffeine and sleep less, so we can work more. We aren't getting enough sun, and we're eating crap because it's fast. We're impatient and don't know how to sit still and definitely don't want to listen to our minds and bodies.

We are always waiting for our next fix, our next escape, and next vacation because we need it!

Is this really our "new normal"?

As you probably know, there is no easy out—and this all eventually catches up with us. At some point you will no longer be able to sustain this hectic, overzealous, toxic lifestyle without hitting a wall.

Stress is associated with depression, HTN, heart disease, carotid artery thickness, and even cancers.

But stress is also often self-inflicted. We don't know how to say no. Our "to-do" list never ends. The multitasking life never stops because we can "handle" more and our lists just grow longer.

So, how do we fix this?

I can tell you to eat better, exercise, sleep more, meditate, stop drinking and smoking, blah blah blah—but how effective is this really? We often have to fall hard before we make changes.

We need to learn how to handle stress as it comes at us. Here are three ways to help the way you perceive stress that actually make a big difference:

Let things go

Since stress is internal, it usually revolves around emotions and the feelings we create. We sometimes cause our own stress without realizing it, so the key is finding it within to learn to let things go.

We cause drama and stress within ourselves, sometimes making situations worse. Once we can acknowledge a situation, we can release it into the universe and the easier our life becomes.

An example is being stuck in traffic; the minute you react negatively to being "stuck in traffic" you cause stress. Instead, acknowledge you're in traffic, but don't react. Instead, approach it from a place of acceptance (yup, I'm in traffic) and see how much easier the situation becomes just from that simple shift.

Do what you love.

Often people get stuck in a rut and forget what their true passion is. Ignite that love that you have for people and activities by bringing it to the forefront of your life and watch how your stress levels diminish.

When you're pouring your heart, soul, and energy into a project you love, it happens effortlessly.

Cook a meal with love and passion and it tastes delicious versus making dinner because you "have to," and it never tastes that good. The stress we bring to that dinner affects both the mood and flavor of the meal.

Sing more.

Something that's very therapeutic that we as adults don't do often is singing.

Sounds and singing are actually very therapeutic and can release vibrations that break up blockages within us. Regardless of what it sounds like, singing can shake up the stagnant energy that sometimes causes us stress.

The next time you're stuck doing something you don't want to do, just sing or hum your favorite tune and instantly watch how your approach to your situation changes.

This is your life: your one opportunity to make changes. The cheapest medicine and best investment in your future is changing and improving your lifestyle.

You don't have to pay a copay, fight with insurance companies, buy any prescription, or pay for expensive testing. Making small lifestyle changes is free, my friends.

Start reflecting on your life and see how you can make small shifts to affect your stress levels. And, of course, if you need additional care, seek out a professional integrative and functional medicine practitioner. Remember: This is your life, and you're in control.

by Dr. Bindiya Gandhi

http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-26977/small-shifts-to-heal-chronic-stress.html