TWENTIETH-CENTURY SCIENCE

Investigations into the therapeutic use of color were carried out in Europe during the early twentieth century, notably by Rudolph Steiner, who related color to form, shape, and sound. He suggested that the vibrational quality of certain colors is amplified by some forms, and that certain combinations of color and shape have either destructive or regenerative effects on living organisms. In the schools inspired by Steiner’s work, classrooms are painted and textured to correspond to the “mood” of children at various stages of their development.

Rudolph Steiner’s work was continued by Theo Gimbel, who established the Hygeia Studios and College of Color Therapy in Britain. Among the principles explored by Gimbel are the claims of Max Luscher, a former professor of psychology at Basle University, who claimed that color preferences demonstrate states of mind and/or glandular imbalance, and can be used as the basis for physical and psychological diagnosis. Luscher’s theory, which forms the basis of the Luscher Color Test, rests on the idea that the significance of color for man originates in his early history, when his behavior was governed by night and day. Luscher believed that the colors associated with these two environments � yellow and dark blue � are connected with differences in metabolic rate and glandular secretions appropriate to the energy required for nighttime sleep and daytime hunting. He also believed that autonomic (involuntary) responses are associated with other colors.

Support for Luscher’s theories was provided in the 1940s by the Russian scientist S. V. Krakov, who established that the color red stimulates the sympathetic part of the autonomic nervous system, while blue stimulates the parasympathetic part. His findings were confirmed in 1958 by Robert Gerard.

Gerard found that red produced feelings of arousal, and was disturbing to anxious or tense subjects, while blue generated feelings of tranquility and well-being and had a calming effect. The discovery that blood pressure increases under red light and decreases under blue light led Gerard to suggest that psychophysiological activation increases with wavelength from blue to red.

Although cautious about his findings and insisting on the need for further research, Gerard highlighted the possible therapeutic benefits of the color blue, and recommended it as supplementary therapy in the treatment of various conditions. Among other suggestions, Gerard pointed to the possible uses of blue as a tranquilizer and relaxant in anxious individuals, and as a way of reducing blood pressure in the treatment of hypertension.

Dr. Harry Wohlfarth also showed that certain colors have measurable and predictable effects on the autonomic nervous system of people. In numerous studies, he found that blood pressure, pulse, and respiration rates increase most under yellow light, moderately under orange, and minimally under red, while decreasing most under black, moderately under blue, and minimally under green.

Subsequent research on plants and animals conducted by the photobiologist Dr. John Ott demonstrated the effects of color on growth and development. Plants grown under red glass were found to shoot up four times quicker than those grown in ordinary sunlight, and to grow much more slowly under green glass. However, although red light initially overstimulated plants, their growth was subsequently stunted, whereas blue light produced slower growth initially but taller, thicker plants later.

Rodents kept under blue plastic grew normally, but when kept under red or pink plastic their appetite and growth rate increased. If kept under blue light, animals grew denser coats.

During the 1950s, studies suggested that neonatal jaundice, a potentially fatal condition found in two-thirds of premature babies, could be successfully treated by exposure to sunlight. This was confirmed in the 1960s, and white light replaced the high-risk blood transfusions in the treatment of this condition. Blue light was later found to be more effective and less hazardous than full-spectrum light (the most common form of treatment for neonatal jaundice).

Bright white full-spectrum light is also now being used in the treatment of cancers, SAD (seasonal affective disorder — so called “winter depression“), anorexia, bulimia nervosa, insomnia, jet lag, shift-working, alcohol and drug dependency, and to reduce overall levels of medication.

The blue light found to be successful in the treatment of neonatal jaundice has also been shown to be effective in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. In studies by S. F. McDonald, most of those exposed to blue light for variable periods up to fifteen minutes experienced a significant degree of pain relief. It was concluded that the pain reduction was directly related both to the blue light and the length of exposure to it. Blue light is also used in healing injured tissue and preventing scar tissue, in the treatment of cancers and nonmalignant tumors, as well as skin and lung conditions.

In 1990, scientists reported to the annual conference of the American Association for the Advancement of Science on the successful use of blue light in the treatment of a wide variety of psychological problems, including addictions, eating disorders, impotence, and depression.

RECENT APPLICATIONS OF COLOR

At the other end of the color spectrum, red light has been shown to be effective in the treatment of migraine headaches and cancer. As a result, color is becoming widely accepted as a therapeutic tool with various medical applications. A new technique, which has been developed over the past two decades as a result of pioneering research, is photodynamic therapy, or PDT. This is based on the discovery that certain intravenously injected photosensitive chemicals not only accumulate in cancer cells but selectively identify these cells under ultraviolet light. These photosensitive chemicals then exclusively destroy the cancer cells when activated by red light, whose longer wavelength allows it to penetrate tissue more deeply than other colors. PDT can be used for both diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Thomas Dougherty, who developed PDT, reports that in a worldwide experiment more than 3000 people, with a wide variety of malignant tumors, have been successfully treated with this technique.

OTHER THERAPEUTIC APPLICATIONS

Color is also used therapeutically in a variety of non medical settings. In some cases its effects have been quite accidental, as in a report to me by the governor of a newly built prison in which each of its four wings had been painted a different color. Both he and his staff found that the behavior of the prisoners varied significantly depending on which wing they lived in, although their allocation to each had been random. Those in red and yellow wings were more inclined to violence than those in the blue and green wings.

Experimental research lends support to these observations. Viewing red light has been found to increase subjects’ strength by 13.5 percent and to elicit 5.8 percent more electrical activity in the arm muscles. For this reason it is now used to improve the performance of athletes. Whereas red light appears to help athletes who need short, quick bursts of energy, blue light assists in performances requiring a more steady energy output.

By comparison, pink has been found to have a tranquilizing and calming effect within minutes of exposure. It suppresses hostile, aggressive, and anxious behavior � interesting given its traditional association with women in Western culture. Pink holding cells are now widely used to reduce violent and aggressive behavior among prisoners, and some sources have reported a reduction of muscle strength in inmates within 2.7 seconds. It appears that when in pink surroundings people cannot be aggressive even if they want to, because the color saps their energy.

By contrast, yellow should be avoided in such contexts because it is highly stimulating. Gimbel has suggested a possible relationship between violent street crime and sodium yellow street lighting.

Research has also shown that color-tinted eyeglasses can be highly effective in the treatment of learning difficulties, notably dyslexia. This was first discovered by psychologist Helen Irlen, but was regarded skeptically until recent investigations by the British Medical Research Council confirmed Irlen’s claims. In June 1993, a new optician’s device called the Intuitive Colorimeter was made available to British opticians so they could measure which tint � bright pink, yellow, green or blue � best helps people who normally see text as swirling, wobbling, or with letters appearing in the wrong order.

PHYSICAL EFFECTS OF COLOR

Until recently, the function of light was thought to relate largely to sight. However, it is now well established that color need not actually be seen for it to have definite psychological and physiological effects. It can also be distinguished by blind, colorblind, and blindfolded subjects. This phenomenon, referred to as eyeless sight, dermo-optic vision, or bio-introscopy, has been researched since the 1920s, when it was established that hypnotized blindfolded subjects could recognize colors and shapes with their foreheads, and that non hypnotized blindfolded subjects could precisely describe colors and shapes presented under glass.

Research in Russia during the 1960s was stimulated by studies of Roza Kulesheva, who, when blindfolded, could distinguish color and shape with her fingertips, and could also read this way. Other experiments found that Kulesheva was not exceptional; one in six experimental subjects could recognize color with their fingertips after only 20-30 minutes training, and blind people developed this sensitivity even more quickly.

Some subjects who could distinguish color correctly by holding their fingers 20-80 centimeters above color cards described experiencing sensations varying from needle pricks to faint breezes, depending on the color. Even when heat differences, structural differences in dyestuffs, and other variables were controlled, people were still able to distinguish colors accurately, whether they were put under glass, tracing paper, aluminium foil, brass or copper plates. The phenomenon remains something of a puzzle.

Understanding of these effects has come about only as a result of research into the hormones melatonin and serotonin, both of which are produced by the pineal gland in the brain. Melatonin is known to be the crucial chemical pathway by which animals respond to light and synchronize their bodily functioning with diurnal, lunar, and seasonal variations. Serotonin is a very important neurotransmitter in the brain, whose action has been linked with mental disturbances such as schizophrenia and hallucinogenic states.

Serotonin, a stimulant, is produced by day, whereas the output of melatonin � which is linked with sleep � increases when it is dark and has a generally depressive effect. This is reversed when it is light and production of melatonin drops. Its main site of action appears to be the hypothalamus, the part of the brain involved in mediating the effects of various hormones and regulating emotions. However, changes in the output of melatonin in response to light influence every cell of the body, notably the reproductive processes, which are very sensitive to such variations. Very high levels of melatonin have been found in women with ovulation problems and anorexia nervosa (a characteristic feature of which is amenorrhoea, or absence of periods), in men with low sperm count, and people suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), which usually occurs during winter.

Depression in general appears to be closely linked with melatonin levels, and sufferers tend to show rapid improvement in response to natural sunlight or light therapy using full-spectrum lamps. Research has also confirmed that certain parts of the brain are not only light sensitive but actually respond differently to different wavelengths; it is now believed that different wavelengths (color) of radiation interact differently with the endocrine system to stimulate or reduce hormone production.

It might be thought that modern-day healing with color is based on the discoveries of Western science over the past few decades. However, it is based on an altogether more ancient and esoteric science whose principles and practices have yet to be acknowledged, much less verified by Western scientists. Healing with color is rooted in ancient mysticism, the major principles of which are common to many different cultures throughout the world.

About the Author

Helen Graham is a lecturer in psychology at Keele University in England and she has specialized in color research for a number of years. She also presents workshops on the use of color healing. This article was excerpted with permission from her book Discover Color Therapy, published by Ulysses Press. Ulysses Press/Seastone Books are available at bookstores throughout the US, Canada, and the UK, or can be ordered directly from Ulysses Press by calling 800-377-2542, faxing 510-601-8307, or writing to Ulysses Press, PO Box 3440, Berleley, CA 94703, email ulysses@hiddenguides.com Their website is www.hiddenguides.com

It is now accepted that color can be used to stimulate or inhibit certain behaviors.

Advertising executives are well aware that a product can have a completely different impact if the color of the packaging is changed. Psychologists have found that certain colors in our immediate environment can help us perform some tasks. For example, exercise is best performed in an environment of warm colors, such as reds and oranges, whereas the tranquil blues and greens are ideal for mental concentration.

Quite often the sayings in the English language have tapped into a deeper interpretation of the colors. Red with rage, green with jealousy, purple passion, feeling blue, he is yellow, are well known to most people. However, each color has a cornucopia of meanings associated with it. If you would like to understand what some of the common colors mean see the chart.

Your Choice of Color

Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung encouraged his patients to use color in their paintings to express the deepest unconscious part of their psyches. We all go through ?favorite color? phases. It has been discovered that personality traits are reflected by your preferred color. Extroverts favor red, introverts prefer blue, yellow is the choice of intellectuals, and well-balanced individuals tend to go for green.

Using Color Positively

Apart from recognizing whether something suits you or not, an inner sense tells you which color to wear. Deny this feeling and you could be ignoring a benevolent influence. For example, red increase’s energy and promotes free movement. For a woman it can reflect changes in the reproductive cycle such as menstruation or ovulation. If you have a sudden desire to wear red it could indicate that you are about to experience a tiring day and need all the help you can get. Interestingly when traffic lights were first introduced people had great difficulty stopping for the red light because on a psychological level red means �GO� and green means �STOP.�
Why do you look great in something one day and the next time you wear the same outfit it looks dreadful? It is because the color no longer reflects who you are in that moment. Wearing a color can cause you to act and react to life in different ways. Your choice offers insight into current life issues and can, in some instances warn of potential illness.

Color and Illness

Each color has positive attributes or truths and the opposites of these are challenges. For instance, the truth of blue symbolizes faith and communication. The challenge is a lack of faith, depression, and difficulty with speech. Conscious awareness of the colors you choose to wear can offer insight into potential change in your life. For example, Illness of some kind can be indicated when a color that is out of character is worn frequently. If red is worn regularly it could point to a physical condition, blue an emotional imbalance, and yellow a nervous state.

Dis-ease means that we are out of balance, color can help to re-balance and make us whole again. Red is good for improving circulation and orange has been found to be beneficial for children with autism. Green is useful for calming and balancing the heart, and is supposed to influence regeneration of cells and elimination of toxins. This is the basis of Color Therapy. Color healing was used in the temples of Heliopolis in Ancient Egypt, as well as in China and India. Hippocrates, the founder of modern day medicine, placed colored strips on cuts to aid in the healing process.

The Gray Areas

Black is a popular non-color, often worn to suppress and protect the emotions. Any color worn with it is a paradox since it represents unrealized potential. The promise of power that black evokes lies within the consciousness of the wearer. Combined with another color it augurs control over its influence. With red it controls physical power and yellow intellectual power. White on the other hand highlights a color and worn alone symbolizes a clean palate, completion, purity, cleansing, and strength. The challenges of white are those that accompany a new start, anger, vulnerability, and tears. Gray is the combination of black and white and symbolizes the diversity of the two creating a state of caution.

Combining Colors

When colors are combined each influence reflects off the other. Wearing green with red puts a different slant on the meanings. As green means stop and red means go, these colors together can signify a difficult decision, usually involving staying or leaving a situation.

Wearing these colors can aid in the decision making process through the vibratory influence of each color.

Color Therapy

Whether it’s a date or an interview, think about the impression you want to make. Use this information to plan your wardrobe and achieve the greatest impact. The truth of each color symbolizes potential, the challenges indicate blockage. Wearing a color can stimulate and/or counteract either of these energies. For example, if you are lecturing wear blue, for a steamy night of passion bring out the red dress, and if it’s attention you are seeking opt for the limitlessness of yellow. If you wear more than one color combine the meanings and create your own new potentials and challenges.

Red

Symbolizing awakening red exudes power, energy, and a passion for life. Red is known to heal sexual difficulties and anemia.

Truth: movement,new beginnings, decisions, passion, love, energy, life, security.
Challenge: anger, frustration, lethargy, nervousness.

Wear red when:

* You want your sexuality to exude from your being.
* Your energy is low and you need a boost.
* You want to be more assertive and want to make things happen faster.

Don�t wear red when:

* You are feeling nervous
* You don?t want attention
* You are feeling frustrated and angry with everyone.

Orange

Often worn by eastern aesthetics, orange is associated with vibrant health. It has the same vibrational frequency as DNA, the template of all human cells. This color is known to heal shock.

Truth: creativity, new ideas, confidence, joy; sensuality, ambition; sports, childhood
Challenge: shock, fear of survival, dependency, letting go, control

Wear orange when:

* You want to have fun and your sensual circuits need the boost.
* You need to heal your emotions.
* You want to heighten your creativity.

Don’t wear orange when:

* You want to relax your feminine/masculine charms.
* You feel restless.
* You want to take a rest.

Yellow

A color often worn by entertainers, because it makes them stand out in a crowd and confronts the challenge of being center of attention. Yellow is known to heal the digestive tract.

Truth: freedom, optimism, mental activity, concentration, open-mindedness
Challenge: fear,no boundaries, negativity, timidity

Wear yellow when:

* You need to attend to details.
* You are studying and need to keep your mind awake.
* You want to infuse some joy into your life.

Don�t wear yellow when:

* You feel fear.
* You don?t want to be the center of attention.
* You want to relax your mind.

Green

Those seeking their own identity, fulfillment of their heart’s desire, and/or are searching for a new direction, are drawn to wear this color.

By doing so they are challenged to find ways of creating their own abundance. Green heals the heart, eases tension, and regenerates cells.

Truth: security, abundance, nature, heart matters, new space/beginnings, balance
Challenge: unrealistic, shying away from people/society, stagnancy

Wear green when:

* You want to see things from a different perspective.
* You desire to feel more space around you.
* You need to feel like both feet are on the ground.

Don�t wear green when:

* You are confused about where life is taking you.
* You feel your life is stagnant.
* You don?t want to face the truth of a situation.

Blue

True blue symbolizing devotion to duty worn by most authority figures – nurses, policemen, etc. Anyone who consistently wears blue are deep thinkers and tend to re-energize by seeking their own company above that of others.

Truth: authority; peace, organized, practical, devotion, structure, communication
Challenge: aloofness, control issues, isolation, depression, martyrdom

Wear blue when:

* You want to exude an air of calm authority.
* You need to be more organized.
* You want to communicate something important.

Don�t wear blue when:

* You are feeling isolated or lonely.
* You feel depressed.
* You are being too critical of both yourself and others.

Violet

Violet can indicate major change and a need to retreat, as a caterpillar retreats into a cocoon before it transforms into a butterfly.

Truth: transformation, spiritual self-realization, truth, creativity, recovery, healing
Challenge: pain, misuse of power, bruising, looking for a way out, grief, unemotional

Wear violet when:

* You want to transform something in your life.
* You are seeking purpose in your life.
* You need to let go of destructive behavior or addictions.

Don’t wear violet when:

* You are daydreaming instead of doing.
* You want to turn your back on society.
* You suffer grief but your emotions are blocked.

Pink

Pink symbolizes unconditional love. Wearing it encourages a sense of affection, increases sensitivity, and challenges you to confront your vulnerabilities.

Truth: unconditional love, affection, flirting, open to love, hearing
Challenge: lack of self-love/self- esteem, healing grief, immaturity, vulnerable

Wear pink when:

* You want to feel feminine and vulnerable.
* You want others to love you instantly.
* You need to concentrate and listen.

Don’t wear pink when:

* You feel vulnerable and insecure.
* You are giving all the time and not receiving.
* You feel fragmented.

Brown

The symbolism of color is based in part on the natural world.

For instance soil offers some insight into the meaning of brown – needed to grow food, without it we would be challenged to find ways to survive.

Truth: security, practicality, work, money, commitments, determination to succeed
Challenge: loss of security; lack of money; fear of survival

Wear brown when:

* You need to get down to some hard work.
* You want to organize your finances
* You want to feel that everything in your life is going well.

Don’t wear brown when:

* You want to expend lots of energy.
* You are feeling too bogged down with things.
* You are not interested in hard work and want to play instead.

Turquoise

Known to enhance healing of the immune system, useful for illnesses such as AIDS. Native Americans use the semi-precious stone Turquoise as an allergy healer, also an autoimmune condition.

Truth: communication, lecturing; media, creativity, immune system healer
Challenge: inability/unwilling to communicate, poor defense, rejection

Wear turquoise when:

* You are lecturing – especially around the throat.
* You want to tap into your creativity through dance, music, art, etc.
* You want to connect with your own spirituality.

Don�t wear turquoise when:

* You feel rejected.
* You don�t want to talk about it!?
* You are more interested in yourself and not others.

About the author

Elizabeth Harper is an intuitive counselor, color therapist, healer, teacher, and author of “InTuition,” and “Sealed with a Wish.” Harper currently works and teaches at The Omega Institute for Holistic Studies in New York State as well as traveling throughout the United States giving workshops and consultations. Her website is www.sealedwithlove. com

Color wheel depicting color, with its complementary color

The origin of reflexology, or zone therapy as it was called, still remains a mystery. One theory, mentioned by Dr. Fitzgerald, in his book Zone Therapy, is that it originated from China some 5,000 years ago as a form of pressure point treatment. Dr. Fitzgerald was an ear, nose and throat specialist, and must be credited for his part in reviving reflexology.

Another conjecture is that it began in Egypt. Evidence for this stems from an Egyptian tomb drawing dating back to 230BC. This drawing depicts four people. One person is being treated with foot massage and a second person with hand massage. Others credit its birth to the Incas. These were people of very ancient Peruvian civilisation, possibly reaching back to 1200BC. It is speculated that they passed their knowledge of zone therapy down to the North American Indians who, up to this present time, are still using this form of treatment.

It was believed that the method formulated by Dr. Fitzgerald was based on acupuncture. Of the twelve meridians used in acupuncture, six terminate or originate on the feet and six terminate or originate on the hands. If one follows the path of these meridians, from their point of origin or termination over the feet and hands, they form the ten longitudinal zones formulated by Fitzgerald.

It was Eunice Ingham, a student of Fitzgerald’s, who instigated what we today know as reflexology. Through her dedicated research, she was able to correlate the anatomical structure of the body to the energy zones found on the feet and on the hands. This made both the feet and the hands a mirror image of the entire body; the microcosm of the macrocosm.

The principal teaching behind reflexology states that the body is divided into ten vertical energy zones, inside which are encompassed the organs, muscles and skeletal structure of the physical body, all of which are reflected on the soles of the feet and palms of the hands. The occurrence of energy blocks in a human person, and the reasons for these are many, are likewise reflected on the hands and the feet in one or more of the zones located there. Through the use of specific pressure techniques, these energy blocks can be detected through the presence of pain or crystalline formation under the skin.

color as a therapy also reaches far back into history, but unlike reflexology, it is still in its infancy of rediscovery. It is speculated that color therapy was used by the Atlanteans. It is believed that they built temples with ceilings that were domed and constructed from interlocking crystals that dissipated light into the color spectrum. Around the circumference of these temples were healing rooms, each reflecting one of the colors dissipated from these crystals.

Archaeologists have discovered that the Egyptians, like the Atlanteans, also incorporated color healing rooms into their temples and used these not for physical illness alone, but for childbirth, counselling and to aid the transition of the soul at death.

India used and still uses color in gem therapy. Indian gem therapists believe that gem stones are the storehouse of cosmic color and that everything manifest is composed of the seven rays which are primeval, formative forces of nature. There, therapeutic techniques incorporate several methods of releasing this color force.

At the beginning of the nineteenth century, with the discovery of new drugs and advances in surgical procedure, color therapy started to be replaced by allopathic medicine. What is interesting is that some of the early pioneers of allopathic medicine, continued to use color in their treatments. One such pioneer was Paracelsus (1493-1541). Paracelsus developed considerable interest in alchemy, astrology and occult sciences. His love of alchemy and his application of this in his treatments earned him the title ‘father of pharmacology’. Another pioneer was Hippocrates (460-370BC), also well versed in alchemy and known as ‘father of medicine’. He was famous for his ‘Hippocratic Oath’.

With the growing awareness of the detrimental effects of allopathic drugs, the percentage of people returning to complementary therapies has started to increase. Unlike allopathic treatment, complementary therapies aim to deal with the cause and not the manifested symptom. This is frequently an alien concept which some people find difficult to work with. But, unless the cause is found and eradicated, it will continue to manifest as a physical symptom. One way of helping the person to locate the cause is through counseling and color.

We, as human beings, are beings of light, surrounded and interpenetrated by the colors which constitute visible light. This establishes the electromagnetic field or aura surrounding us. The aura contains six sheaths or layers, all of which interpenetrate with each other and the physical body. It is filled with constantly changing colors, determined by our state of health, physically, emotionally and mentally. How true the sayings: ‘green with envy’, ‘red with rage‘.

The layer closest to the physical body is known as the etheric sheath and is the blueprint for the physical body. It contains the very fine energy channels or nadis through which pranic energy flows. This network of infinitely intricate nadis establish the counterpart of the entire nervous system.

As well as containing the nadis, the etheric sheath contains seven major and twenty one minor chakras or energy centres. It also contains numerous acupuncture points. A major chakra is defined by the crossing of 21 nadis; a minor chakra by 14 nadis and an acupuncture point by seven nadis. These force centres can be found in each of the layers constituting the aura, but their primary importance is at the etheric level. They are both the transformers and the transmitters of energy for each of the layers and work with the physical endocrine system. Disease starts in the aura as accumulated energy. If this is not dispersed, it will eventually manifest as a physical disease.

A chakra which is not acknowledged as one of the major centres, but is of prime importance, is the splenic chakra. It is this chakra which absorbs prana, chi or life force and disintegrates it into its seven varieties. Each of these seven varieties of prana vibrates to the frequency of one of the colors on the color spectrum and establishes the dominant color of the chakra to which it is distributed. From these chakras, the colors radiate into the rest of the auric field. Because the feet and the hands present a mirror image of the physical body, they reflect the auric field around themselves. The chakras can also be located along the spinal reflex on both feet and hands. I have found these to be important points for treatment, especially for hormonal imbalances.

Position of the Chakras on the spinal reflex of the feet…
and the hands

Although the chakras work mainly with the endocrine glands, they also have an effect on organs, muscles and bones which lie in their pathway. Each color contains within itself its own spectrum of color. Therefore the parts of the body related to a specific chakra will vibrate to a frequency contained within the spectrum of color of that chakra. This I always refer to as the general color.

When working with the vibrational frequencies of color in therapy, it has been deemed important to administer the treatment color followed by its complementary color. This I have found through experience to be trite. One of my students treated her husband with reflexology and color for diabetes. Unfortunately, she forgot to administer the complementary color after the treatment color. This resulted in his blood sugar, after stabilizing, suddenly rising. By treating with color complementary color, we work with polarity. Polarity teaches that complementary energies have to be in balance to create harmony.

When combining color with reflexology, color is used for three conditions. The first is to work with the cause, the second to help keep the body in balance and the third to work with the manifested disease. Sometimes all three conditions are treated with color during a therapy session. At other times only one or maybe two of the conditions are worked with.

When treating a person with the combination of these two therapies, a complete reflexology treatment is initially carried out. A reflexology treatment is diagnostic, thereby enabling a practitioner to locate where problems or potential problems lie. Having completed this, the general colors with their complementary colors are applied to the areas where an abnormality has been diagnosed but which has produced no noticeable symptoms in the physical body. The reason for this can be twofold. It could be related to an accumulation of energy in the etheric layer of the aura, or it could indicate that a particular part of the body is under strain through trying to keep the whole in balance.

If, through disease, the vibrational frequencies of the etheric body changes, the change will affect the cellular structure of the physical body. This then affects the force field of the related organ or organs. If the force field of one or more organs is altered, then the body will try to bring itself back into homeostasis. This process can put strain on healthy organs within the physical structure which shows itself as pain on the related reflexes on the feet or hands. Administering the general color, with its complementary color, to the related reflex, will help to re-balance its altered function.

The treatment colors, with their complementary colors are then applied to the zones on the feet which relate to the part of the body which has manifested problems. When selecting colors for specific diseases, several factors have to be taken into consideration. These are, the nature of the disease, the part of the body affected and the overall condition of the patient.

Having treated the reflexes related to the physical symptoms, the chakras situated along the spinal reflex on the feet or hands, are balanced with their dominant color before the overall color, relating to the cause is administered through both feet.

Color can be applied to the zones of the feet in two ways. Firstly, if the practitioner is sensitive to color, they can visualise it being channelled through their hands. I personally believe that the physical body can be the most beautiful instrument for the projection of color, but some reflexologists find sensitizing and using the physical body as a channel too demanding. For these people the reflexology crystal torch has been devised.

This instrument shines light through stained glass discs and projects the color of the stained glass into a quartz crystal. The crystal is then applied to the relevant zones of the feet. The length of time that a color is projected would depend upon the nature of the illness and the stature of the person being treated. The time factor would be less on a frail, elderly lady than on a robust young male. Apart from being a very powerful instrument, I have discovered that patients love to look at the color. Depending upon their degree of sensitivity, some patients are able to feel the color pulsating through their body.

Combining illuminatory color with reflexology is still in its infancy, and I know that what we are experiencing is just the tip of the iceberg. I also know that during the years that I have been treating with and teaching these two therapies, some wonderful results have been achieved. If we are beings of light, and of this I have no doubt, surely treating with the vibrational energies of light must be therapeutic. I personally believe that vibrational medicine will be the medicine of the future and this will consist of both color and sound.

Further reading: The Reflexology Manual by Pauline Wills published by Headline

The Reflexology and color Therapy Workbook by Pauline Wills published by Element

Red

Red is associated with energy, grounding, blood, passion for life, flame of Holy Spirit, regeneration, stress, chaos, survival issues, anger, violence, courage , inconsistency, womb, menstruation cycle, circulation, cellular structure, fever.

Orange

Orange is associated with shock, trauma, deep insight, codependency/independence, harmony, ecstasy, beauty, sexuality, trust, individuation, devotion, wisdom, indecision, patience, gut feelings, hysteria, depression, ovaries, spleen, intestines, gall bladder.

Yellow

Yellow is associated with acquired knowledge, light, will power, mental confusion, intellect, cynicism, indecisiveness, warmth, joy, delight, fear, cowardice, nervousness, confusion, depression, solar plexus, liver, nerves, skin, arthritis, jaundice.

Green

Green is associated with space, search for truth, seeing all aspects of a situation, growth, nature, fertility, creativity, healing, regeneration, compassion, balance, envy, heart, lungs, thymus, ulcers.

Turquoise

Turquoise is associated with mass communication, the sea, trusting intuition, utopian outlook, teaching, communication through art and all creative expression, awareness, talent for technical things, sympathy and empathy, emotional expression, optimism, heart, throat, thymus, lungs, upper neck, shoulders, circulation, bronchitis, asthma, revitalization, hay fever, swelling, strains on the body.

Blue

Blue is associated with peace, sympathy and healing, safety, rest, divinity, water (baptism), blessing, protection that lets in helpful and supportive influences, intuition, leadership, serenity, calmness, softness, emptiness, feeling blue, frigidity, thyroid, throat, all communication, cramps, sprains, infections, neck problems, sunburn.

Magenta

Magenta is associated with love for everyday things, cooperation, finding your purpose for living, hormonal system, energy flow.

Violet

Violet is associated with spirituality, healing, service, contemplation (sometimes too much), individualism, closure, recognize and realize the reason for living, suffering grief, not wanting to be here, addiction, tendency to withdraw, inner calmness, production of mucus, skull, overactivity.

Coral

Coral is associated with the unconscious, intuitive, self-analysis, dependency, ability to accept love, glands, birth trauma.

Gold

Gold is associated with wisdom, wealth, status, delusion, fear, delight, nerves, spine, intestines.

Olive Green

Olive green is associated with space, feminine leadership, hope, new life, transmutation, clarity, harmony, self-love, gall bladder, large intestine,lungs.

Royal Blue

Royal blue is associated with knowing why you are here, ability to make decisions, neutrality, reverence, loneliness, eyes, ears, nose, forehead, pineal gland.

Pink

Pink is associated with unconditional love, Tantra, awakening, hormonal system, reproductive organs, eyes.

Clear

Clear is associated with understanding of suffering, forgiveness, emptiness, clarity, the entire body

Progressive healing is a form of alternative health care that integrates the whole person in the healing process: body, mind, emotion, spirit and life force (chi) energy. Energy related modalities include a diverse array of techniques ranging from crystaline reiki, to a variety of interactive mind-body explorations. All energy related modalities work from a fundamental concept that the body contains, and is surrounded by, electromagnetic fields and energy centers which make up an individual’s energy body system.

Although this energy body is no more visible to many of us than the wind is visible to our eyes, science and medical research are beginning to document that it is an integral part of our physical, mental, emotional and spiritual well being. We are able to maintain life in our physical bodies due to the presence of “life force energy” flowing though it. This energy has different names in different cultural traditions. Common terms include chi (China); ki (Japan) and prana (India). Each of our energy centers correspond directly to the physical body’s organs, glands and systems.

The extent to which our energy is able to vibrate, flow and circulate freely without blocks and constrictions determines to a large degree the extent to which we are able to maintain health at all levels of body, mind and spirit. An abundance of medical research has determined that stress greatly affects the body’s natural ability to maintain health. The American Institute of Stress estimates that 75%-90% of all visits to primary care physicians are for stress related complaints, and that 43% of all adults suffer adverse health effects due to stress. Stress also is a major factor in the strength and flow of our life force energy.

Effects of the stressful conditions we encounter in our lives and environment such as fear and anxiety, worry, grief, anger, pollutants, etc. are registered first in our energy body system. If uncontrolled, they then move into the physical body and may manifest in conditions ranging from minor ailments to debilitating or chronic disease. Energy healing modalities are excellent for working with physical body conditions. Even more importantly, they serve as a great preventative to clear energetic disturbances before they manifest as physical, emotional or mental illness. Energy bodywork, like most holistic therapies, is cumulative. An initial period of regular sessions build on each other and can help us quickly reach a point where our bodies and energy fields can more easily maintain balanced states for longer periods of time.

SPIRITUAL HEALING

The healers assist individuals in understanding that their attitude and emotions have the greatest effect on their energy field. Intuitive techniques are used to scan and interpret the individual’s energy flow and blockages. The healer then utilizes visualization, channelled energy, harmonically balanced tuning forks, Aromatherapy, and creative suggestion. Healing energies are directed to induce the most beneficial effect on the energy field to assist with Chakra balancing, the release of past life and emotional issues, as well as other interdimensional benefits

STONE HEALING

Stone Healing is an ancient Native American healing art which is now being shared with the Western world. The stones act as a bridge from which energy is transmited from healer to client. They are heated & when applied to the body feel wonderful. This treatment is probably one of the most deeply relaxing, yet at the same time energizing modalities of healing available today.

QUANTUM TOUCH

Quantum Touch utilizes breathing & focusing techniques that raise your energy level to a point where spontaneous healings may occur. It is specifically great for back & joint pain & inflammation, & healing is profoundly accelerated.

SHAMANIC HEALING

Shamanic Healing is deep soul work. It is a journey where we reach back into the wounded places of our hearts and minds, our bodies and spirits, to release negative energies and beliefs that are causing us distress. Spirit guides assist us and may appear in the form of animals, plants, minerals, angels, mythic beings, ascended masters, ancestors or elemental forces. With the help of the healer, we can reconnect with lost parts of ourself, journey to heal a past life that is holding us back, or cut cords to people, places or things that no longer serve us. This type of healing can help us release the past, clear our energy field of negativity, reclaim lost power

Reiki

The origins of Reiki, pronounced “ray-key”, the Japanese word for universal life force energy, can be traced back thousands of years to ancient Tibet. Much of the Western teachings of Reiki, however, come from the work of Dr. Mikao Usui of Japan who discovered this technique during a fasting/meditation retreat. The method he developed is known today as Usui Reiki. Reiki is applied through gentle touch over the body’s energy centers. It facilitates the body’s ability to heal itself by removing blocks and balancing the body’s energy system.

This process provides deep relaxation, a sense of peace and well-being and supports other therapeutic modalities. Reiki is an effective and safe complement to any other healing method a person may be using. It is becoming much more common to find Reiki incorporated as an enhancement to other modalities such as massage therapy, chiropractic, psychology, hypnotherapy, and in major U.S. hospitals.

In addition to providing general well-being and disease prevention, some conditions for which Healing Touch and Reiki have been used as complementary therapy include: Pain Neck Pain and Back Pain Anxiety and Panic Disorder StressFracture and Wound Healing Female Reproductive Conditions Sleep Disorders, Insomnia, Mood Swings, Skin Problems Pre and Post Surgery Headache & Migraines Diabetes Cancer HIV/AIDS Allergies Fatigue Arthritis Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Autoimmune Disorders Rehabilitation Hypertension Grief Depression Hyperactivity

For a very nice beginning introduction to Reiki, I highly recommend Essential Reiki. This was the first book I ever read about Reiki, and I still find myself looking at it from time to time.

Flower Essences

In the 1930′s, homeopathic physician, Dr. Edward Bach of England, discovered that overall health, emotional stability and well-being could be improved through use of the essences of specific flowering plants. Through many years of research he discovered corresponding links between medical conditions and psychological or mood states.

Flower remedies balance vibrations in the body’s energy system and open energy channels to help transform emotional states, attitudes, or patterns of behavior which hinder our wholeness and development of our full potential. Today there are several varieties of flower essence products developed from the basis of Dr. Bach’s original work.

Two of the most widely known and researched include the FES Essences produced by Patricia Kaminski and Richard Katz at the Flower Essence Society of North America and the Perelandra Essences produced by Machaelle Small Wright at the Perelandra Center for Nature Research. Flower remedies can help combat stressful, chaotic times; balance the energy centers; dispel and prevent retention and storage of trauma in the body, mind and emotions; provide excellent overall support during times of change or spiritual expansion; and safely complement all therapeutic modalities.

They can be taken orally under the tongue, placed in a glass of drinking water, used in a relaxing bath, applied topically, or blended in a dosage bottle for extended use. If you’re a “do it yourself” kind of person, or just want learn more about flower remedies and how they are used, I highly recommend Bach Flower Therapy: Theory and Practice by Mechthild Scheffer.

To better understand both the Bach essences and the FES line, you may want to order the Flower Essence Repertory. Written By Patricia Kaminski, a founder of the Flower Essence Society of North America, this definitely is the “bible” work for those seriously interested in flower essence use and practice. Aromatherapy In brief, aromatherapy is the use of volatile plant oils, including essential oils, for psychological and physical well being.

SOUND HEALING

Everything, including the human body, is composed of various frequencies of sound energy.

All things in nature vibrate to sound, light and color. Knowing that the human body is energy that is held together by sound, sound healing can correct imbalances in the body. A disease tells us that some sound within the body is out of tune. Each sound has a corresponding color. When sound and color healing techniques are used together, particularly when they are connected with chakra balancing, the effect on the body can be profound.

COLOR HEALING

Color has been used in healing since ancient times. There are many ways that it may be used to help calm and heal distressed and/or diseased people. Each color corresponds to a certain body areas or organs. For example, red is a powerful color to invoke when the patient is experiencing a blood dysfunction, whereas orange may be called in to vitalize a sluggish kidney, etc.

A common form of color healing is for both the healer and patient to visualize the sun’s rays shining through a colored glass or filter onto the location of the discomfort or illness. Another method is for the patient to drink water that has been sitting in appropriately colored glasses.

Kinesiology

Kinesiology is defined primarily as the use of muscle testing to identify imbalances in the body’s structural, chemical, emotional or other energy, to establish the body’s priority healing needs. There are various branches of Kinesiology. All use the basic muscle-testing principle.

Each Kinesiology very much reflects the interests and personality of its developer resulting in various techniques that follow these same ‘Muscle testing’ principles

Medical Intuition

Medical Intuition is intended to be used as a tool of intuitive insight. It traces the nature and roots of conditions that have manifested themselves in physical discomfort and disease within a client’s unique energy field. In this work there is only one expert, the client’s body. The role of a Medical Intuitive is to pay attention to the body without censoring, questioning, analyzing or bringing any preconceived frames of reference. This work is particularly helpful for providing information regarding conditions that may have eluded traditional methods of diagnosis or comprehension.

About the author

Charles Lightwalker is a Metis shaman, author, medical intuitive, and healer. For more information visit the web site: www.thefamilyoflight.com.

No, definitely not! Read about the history of color therapy here.

Can Color Therapy Be Used With Other Healing Techniques?

Yes, color and crystal therapy combine very very well – as does color therapy with reflexology. You can learn more of this by reading additional articles on this site under Reflexology, Crystals and Color at the Article Archive.

What is an Aura?

By definition the aura is the energy field or � Life Force� that surrounds, encompasses and permeates all living things. The human aura is similar to a force field protecting and vitalizing every cell and organ of the body.

This glowing energy has been called an �electric blueprint�.
The Shape of the Aura or the Color/s in the Aura are they Important?

The aura�s spiraling color vibration field can be seen, felt, and interpreted in an aura reading. Should the color or colors in the aura need healing, an aura healing can take place, bringing the aura into balance.

A well-balanced aura should be balanced all the way around, with the color or colors and their stability (i.e., whether there are any breaks, gaps, or holes as well as the intensity of the color) being carefully noted.

An example; when a murky color is present the aura is out of balance, this is when an aura healing would be helpful.

Can we See the Aura?

There are very few who are gifted to see the aura, however modern day technology allows us to photograph the aura in all its glorious color. An aura camera provides a visual image of how you are functioning mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. This allows an aura specialist to give an aura reading and then if needed perform an aura healing.

What are Chakras?

The human body comprises many energy systems and etheric structures, the most important of which are the chakras.

There are seven major chakras that run along the main vertical line of the body.

Chakras regulate the flow of consciousness into and from the body.

Chakras relate to all levels of human life – emotional, physical, mental and spiritual

Why Color Healing?

The history of color healing goes back over 5,000 years, from the ancient Egyptians, Chinese, Native American’s, and Tibetans to present day practitioners and healers.

The ancient Egyptians wore amulets of colored stones. They wore red to treat diseases and building strength, yellow to create happiness, and green to increase fertility.

Today we use blue light on newborn babies with jaundice in our hospitals.

We know that some prisons use pink rooms to calm the more violent criminal. Also, many police stations use blue rooms for their interrogations, as the suspect is more apt to tell the truth in a blue room.

Why Color Healing? It is a safe nontoxic alternative for healing. It Beats Drugs!!

Color Therapy What Is It?

Color Therapy is simple. It consists of applied color or colors and their vibrations to heal.

Treatment modalities include;

* Shining color lights on a person.
* Being in a room painted (or lighted) in a particular color.
* Wearing certain colored clothes.
* Imagining colors shining upon you, while meditating or praying.
* Eating fruits and vegetables of certain colors.
* Wearing Color Therapy glasses.

The eyes convert light (color) into a kind of energy, which travels through our nervous system, and affects all body functions. Studies have shown that when color is introduced to the human system it causes cellular and hormonal changes. This can bring the cells into synchronization or balance.

Color Therapy eye wear is one method of using color. As the color enters the eye it is directed to the hypothalamus gland. It then goes to the pineal gland, which directs it to the pituitary gland. The pituitary governs and regulates hormone production. The brain processes this information, which causes the cellular and hormonal changes to occur.

How Does Color Work?

Each color vibrates at a specific, individual frequency, as do the glands and organs of the body.

Each color corresponds to a specific area of the body. Color vibrates true to frequency. It never deviates.

Color is like a vitamin. If you had a vitamin C deficiency you would increase your intake of vitamin C. If you had an excess of vitamin C then you would decrease your intake of vitamin C. Color works the same way.

As an example, if you need to lose weight, then increase the color blue in your life. Do you get migraine headaches? Then increase the color red or indigo in your life. What about depression? You can decrease the color indigo.

You can positively effect many areas of your life and health, through
Color and Color Therapy.

Chakras & Chakra Healing?

The Sanskrit word �chakra� literally means �wheel� or “circle”.

It is maintained that within the human body is a huge column of moving energy. It is made up of three main channels, which whirl like brightly colored flowers from the top of the head, to the base of the spine.

Where the channels intersect, energy wheels or centers are formed. These are referred to as the chakras. The term Chakra is the most frequently used and descriptive word for the energy points or whirls of energy that exists within in the human body.

We have seven vital chakras (as well as secondary or lesser chakras) located just to the front of the spinal column. The chakras are part of the body�s auric energy, and control the inflow and outflow of the life force, also known as Chi, and Vital Force. Each chakra vibrates to a specific color, and each color has both a positive and a challenging meaning.

Sit or lie comfortably. Set the energy of protection around you by invoking either the angels of the four corners (Michael, Gabriel, Ariel, and Uriel), or by asking for the protective energy of the Source of All.

Notice any tense areas in your body. Gently tighten that area of tension, then release it. Feel the tension leaving. Do this with each taut area in the body.

Breathe deeply and evenly, feeling the cleansing power of oxygen permeating your body’s cells as you inhale, and the release of carbon dioxide waste as you exhale. Conscious, deep breathing honors the physical, emotional, and mental bodies by facilitating the unblocking of the life force while embracing the beauty of your physical expression. This allows your spiritual Higher Self to align in the body.

Visualize the crown chakra (at the top of your head) begin to open as though it were the lens of a camera. Ask for all 13 rays of rainbow energy to flow down through your crown. These rainbow colors are the red, orange, yellow, green, rose, translucent blue, indigo, violet, silver, gold, white, clear, and black rays. They are present at all 13 dimensional levels, and can be pulled from whichever level is appropriate for you at this time. By stating this intent they will flow from the right dimension for your use. Do not be concerned if you don’t know about each dimension; by asking for the right one(s), it will happen.

As the rainbow rays flow into your crown chakra, see them enter your bloodstream through the arteries, arterioles, capillaries, and veins. Watch them flow through all the neurons (nerve cells) and synapses (nerve cell connections) throughout the brain area. There are estimated to be between 10 and 100 billion neurons in your body. Most of these are in your brain. The brain is not only responsible for all sensory input and motor activities. It also oversees involuntary functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. Our precious brains supervise all the creative endeavors, as well as logical thinking and emotions. To take it a step further, the brain is the seat of psychic perception and abilities; processes we as a people have ignored for many centuries. These dormant psychic processes can be awakened by the application of the 13 rays of light energy.

At this time, see the “rainbow blood” move through what my guides call the tensor center of the brain, the psychic center of perception. This tensor center is located in the middle of the brain. With intensity of thought, focus the rainbow colored blood through your tensor area. This part of your brain will gradually awaken when this exercise is regularly practiced.

Next, allow the rainbow blood to flow down the neck, shoulders, arms, torso, legs, and feet. See this rainbow energy coursing along through your blood vessels, just as your own blood is pumped through the body. Your blood consists of red cells, white cells, platelets, and plasma. Your red cells carry oxygen to all other body cells, your white cells fight disease, and the platelets stop deadly leaks through the clotting process. Your plasma, which is mostly water, carries the blood cells, platelets, nutrients, and hormones. Feel the rainbow blood electrify your physical blood, rebalancing any imbalance.

As the rainbow blood travels through each portion of your body, feel it revitalize any weakened areas, and enhance any normal areas.

Keep the rainbow blood coursing through your body as long as you can comfortably visualize it. Just keep it circulating from your head to your feet and back again.

To bring the technique to an end, just allow the rays to dissipate, clearing the excess energy from your auric field by sending the energy down into the earth. Your spiritual intent will be for the planet to use it for clearing, healing, and aligning.

Close your crown chakra to a comfortable, normal position.

Ground yourself to the earth.

About the author

Alijandra is a multiple modalities healer, teacher, and author based in the San Jose bay area. Intuitive and empathic her whole life, she originally trained as a registered nurse. She has focused her attention the last 18 years to the development and practice of color energy therapy. She additionally trained in several other healing/bodywork modalities, which she frequently uses. In recent years, her focus has been more on the spiritual, visionary side and how to effectively apply it to the holistic healing process. She is the author of Healing with the Rainbow Rays, and founder of this color healing art in its present form. Her website is http://www.colorhealing.com and she may be reached at alijandra@colorhealing.com She may be reached by phone at 408-986-8550 in the US

1) we want to look the best we can – for ourselves, for our mates, just because
2) we’re suckers for a slick marketing/advertising campaign
3) we’re too busy caring for and worrying about everyone else to pamper ourselves properly

Now….I don’t know about the rest of ya’ll but I can neither AFFORD all the crap that is advertised nowadays as the next ‘miraculous’ beauty treatment nor do I have the time to apply/use them all.

So, where is the common sense approach in all of this? And just so everyone know, every single thing I suggest here I’m going to DO for the next 30 days and report back.

I’m as bad as the next working/busy mom – I do and do and do and fall into bed remembering all I didn’t get done – and doing for myself rarely makes the ‘done’ list.

Let’s take it step by step….

Ok, let’s start with the basics – Health and Nutrition!

1) Water – well, this is simple – drink plenty of it. This is a challenge for me because I’d MUCH rather be drinking a cup of strong coffee! But, my goal for this 30 days is to drink 4 16 oz bottles of water per day. Need a reminder of why water is important? Read this post: http://www.natural-holistic-health.com/general/nutrition/10-reasons-to-drink-more-water/

2) This may seem like it’s ridiculous, but it’s not. Laughter. Laughter is the best medicine, right? Research has shown health benefits of laughter ranging from strengthening the immune system to reducing food cravings to increasing one’s threshold for pain. There’s even an emerging therapeutic field known as humor therapy to help people heal more quickly, among other things. Humor also has several important stress relieving benefits.

a) Laughter gives our bodies a good workout. Laughter can be a great workout for your diaphragm, abdominal, respiratory, facial, leg, and back muscles. It massages abdominal organs, tones intestinal functioning, and strengthens the muscles that hold the abdominal organs in place. Not only does laughter give your midsection a workout, it can benefit digestion and absorption functioning as well. It is estimated that hearty laughter can burn calories equivalent to several minutes on the rowing machine or the exercise bike.

b) Laughter lowers blood pressure. People who laugh heartily on a regular basis have lower standing blood pressure than the average person. When people have a good laugh, initially the blood pressure increases, but then it decreases to levels below normal. Breathing then becomes deeper which sends oxygen enriched blood and nutrients throughout the body.

c) Laughter protects the heart. Laughter, along with an active sense of humor, may help protect you against a heart attack, according to the study at the University of Maryland Medical Center (cited above). The study, which is the first to indicate that laughter may help prevent heart disease, found that people with heart disease were 40 percent less likely to laugh in a variety of situations compared to people of the same age without heart disease.

If you can’t find anything to laugh about, well, just stop a minute to think of a world where women went on strike and men had to assume our roles/duties! Now THAT would be tragically hilarious!

2) Ease up on caffeinated beverages. This is another toughie for me because of the love of coffee I mentioned above, but also because my #2 favorite drink is Coca-Cola (hey, at least I’m honest about it!). So, what I’m doing is replacing 3 cups of coffeee or 3 glasses of coke (or combination of) with 3 cups of green tea sweetened with honey. I do love green tea – and the benefits of green tea are impressive. Want to read about those? They are listed in this post: http://www.natural-holistic-health.com/general/the-benefits-of-green-tea/

3) Eat breakfast. Now, I HATE eating breakfast – I’m never hungry and if I eat a large breakfast I become nauseated. But, when I eat nothing, I end up going hours on ONLY coffee and then binge eat like a starving, rabid person. The way I’ve solved this? I bought generic Ensure (chocolate flavor, of course) and drink one of those each morning. It gives me something substantial AND gives me some protein. I’ve actually lost weight doing this, even without changing any other part of my lifestyle.

4) Eat brightly colored fruits and vegetables. Substitute snacks of cookies or chips with an apple, fresh broccoli sprinkled with Olive Oil and Lemon, a spinach salad, etc…you get the idea.

5) Cut down on anything with high Saturated Fat (fried foods!) and refined flours and eat more fish (especially Alaskan Salmon), turkey and chicken. Diet IS linked to Acne – no matter what the ‘experts’ may say. Want to know more? Check out Dr. Perricone’s site.

6) Take your vitamins. Of course, we could make a list 3 miles long of so-called ‘amazing’ supplements, right? Well, I have three goals with my supplements: 1) general good health 2) heart health (heart disease runs in my family) and 3) beauty.

Here’s what I take:

1) A solid Multi-Vitamin will help you get all of the nutrients, Vitamins and Minerals you may need. Although, remember, the best way to get what your body needs is by eating right!

2) Alpha Lipoic Acid – Alpha Lipoic Acid, also known as lipoic acid is a powerful, natural antioxidant slowly becoming recognized as having some unique properties in the therapy and prevention of a broad range of diseases. We have all heard the term “free radicals” in connection with youth and aging. Antioxidants are what help battle these free radicals and keep us healthier and younger looking.

3) Hair, Skin and Nails by Rexall (great multi-vitamin specifically for hair, skin and nails that includes Biotin!)

4) Fish oil – 2000 mg a day – great for heart and for soft skin and terrific source of Omega-3s – More info on Fish Oil here: http://www.natural-holistic-health.com/herbal-product-spotlight/xtend-lifes-omega-3-dha-esters/

5) Flax oil – 1000 mg a day – Read more on the benefits of flax here: http://www.natural-holistic-health.com/general/the-health-benefits-of-flaxseed-oil/

6) Vitamin B-Complex – Over 60 different bodily enzymes require vitamin B6 to perform properly. In addition, vitamin B12 relies upon its B cousin for assistance in adequate absorption into our bodies. Vitamin B6 promotes healthy skin and hair; therefore, it is not suprising that a B6 deficiency could easily lead to a skin disorder. I personally love No Shot B-12 and B-6 by Superior Source.

7) DMAE – DMAE can lift ones mood level to a more positive side, counter depression and bad moods, and raise and improve cognitive functions (such as memory and concentration), dmae can even increase intelligence. Physician’s closely watching patients on DMAE have reported that such people are more. upbeat, and have greater positive mental acuity. Also, people taking it often, have reported sleeping depper and having much more energy when awake. Finally, one of the most promsosing DMAE benefits is that it promotes healthy skin, by stopping the process of arachidonic acid being manufactured, which is a substance that can lead to wrinkles and aging of the skin. Because of these purposes, the nutrient can be taken internally as nutritional supplement or applied orally through certain creams.

Cod Liver Oil – Healthy skin, Strong bones and teeth, Healthy joints, A healthy cardiovascular system, A healthy nervous system and prevention of depression and other mood disorders, A healthy lining for your digestive tract

Now, isn’t it funny that things we do for ‘health’ have the side-benefit of improving beauty?

Here’s two more suggestions for general health AND beauty – and ones I will swear by!

1) Dry skin brushing – The skin-brushing itself will change the health of your whole body. Circulation, skin softness and quality, skin infections and irritations, whole body freshness, treatment of cellulite, your level of stimulation, the prevention of colds, and you personal rejuvenation are all areas of improvement you can look for, when you make it to a regular habit.

What brush to use? Well, even though there are ‘specialty’ skin brushes sold for 60 bucks and more (eye roll) I’ve found that a normal natural bristle brush – made by Goody and available at any drug store, WalMart, Target or Kmart – works JUST as well. Don’t get caught up in the marketing!!!!

The best instructions I’ve found on how to dry skin brush are from http://www.naturalhealthtechniques.com/HealingTechniques/Dry_Brushing_Technique.htm

How to Dry Brush (Easy, Fast Instructions):

1) Begin with your feet and brush vigorously in circular motions.
2) Continue brushing up your legs.
3) Proceed to your hands and arms.
4) Brush your entire back and abdomen area, shoulders and neck.
5) Use circular counter-clockwise strokes on the abdomen.
6) Lightly brush the breasts.
7) Brush upwards on the back and down from the neck. Better yet, have a friend, spouse or family member brush your back.

After brushing, take a hot shower with soap (about three minutes in duration), followed by a 10-20 second cold rinse. Repeat this procedure three times. If the hot/cold showers are too extreme, a warm shower can be used. Follow the shower with a rubdown with either a sponge or towel to remove dead skin.

2) Now, once a week, follow your dry skin brushing with this instead of with a shower….A detox bath.

My first question about these were….”HUH? What FOR????” So, here’s what for:

Detox baths are a simple and valuable adjunct to normal self-care health maintenance. They can be very helpful in facilitating the elimination of toxins that are released into systemic circulation by massage and bodywork therapies, as well as encouraging the ongoing immune and eliminative functions of the skin. Best of all, baths are enjoyable and relaxing — medicine that “tastes good.”

Epsom salts baths provide a broad spectrum cleanser, clearing lymphatic congestion, removing some heavy metals (mercury, lead, aluminum, arsenic), and eliminating residual radiation from medical tests (X-rays or CAT scans), computer monitors and televisions, and UV exposure from frequent air travel.

Baking Soda & Sea Salt – A hot bath with equal parts of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) and sea salt assists in detoxification from exposure to heavy metals and radiation. It is also beneficial for cleansing the auric field and for soothing itchy skin. Sea salt is recommended, as opposed to rock salt or common table salt, which are depleted of nourishing minerals.

Hydrogen Peroxide – Adding hydrogen peroxide to bathwater increases oxygen available to the body. One of the reasons rain feels so refreshing is because the moisture (H2O) in the air picks up an extra molecule of oxygen (O2) as it interacts with ozone (O3) in the atmosphere, and as the raindrops fall they contain an abundance of this natural hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). When hydrogen peroxide is added to bathwater, the extra molecule of oxygen is released. The famous healing waters of Lourdes, in France, contain concentrations of hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide baths often leave the body feeling alert and revitalized, like spending a day in the fresh country air. This gentle bath is antibacterial, antiviral and cleansing to the emotional and energetic bodies. It is believed to be helpful in eliminating some chemicals and some radiation from body tissues. It has been found to be a good support during chemotherapy.

Apple Cider Vinegar – Apple cider vinegar baths restore a natural pH to the skin and hair, as well as rejuvenate and build up the body’s resistance. This bath helps restore acid mantle protection to the skin, which is lost from swimming and from routine use of soaps on the skin. Thus, apple cider vinegar baths help combat “unfriendly” bacteria, fungal overgrowth, and are helpful with vaginal and bladder infections. Apple cider vinegar baths are soothing to the skin, alleviating itchiness, poison ivy and sunburn discomfort. As with all hot baths, it causes the pores to open and aids in general systemic detoxification. Apple cider vinegar contains potassium, phosphorus, natural sodium, magnesium, natural fluoride, iron, silicon, sulfur, and other trace minerals which are nourishing to the skin.

Now for the bath recipe:

Fill the tub with water

* 1/2 cup sea salt
* 1/2 cup of baking soda
* 1/2 cup of Epsom salt
* 1/2 cup of peroxide
* 1 cup of apple cider vinegar
* 20 drops of oregano oil (optional)

Add to bath water, stir until dissolved. Bathe in water for at least 20 minutes

On to the Face and Neck!

Ok, no matter WHAT the ads tell you, the BEST things you can do for your skin are:

1) Drink plenty of water

2) Get enough good rest

3) Minimize Stress – and don’t STAY stressed – breathe, meditate, dance, whatever it takes to de-stress (remember “laughter” above???)

4) Good nutrition – you’d think this would be a ‘duh’ – but it really is one of the most often over-looked must-do’s

5) Exercise – yes, exercise – walking, running, aerobics, yoga – heck I blast my 80s rock and 70s disco while the kids are at school and dance like an idiot while no one is home to watch! No one says exercise has to be boring, ritualized nor uniform. And, dancing has the added benefit of being FUN

6) Take those supplements up there – the multi-vitamin, flax, DMAE, Cod Liver Oil, Alpha-Lipoic Acid, and omega-3 fish oils especially. You’ll be amazed at the difference in your skin.

7) LOVE YOUR SKIN – ok, this sounds silly, but I’m serious. Thought creates reality. What the mind professes, the body expresses. Love your skin. Massage it, caress it, LOVE IT.

Now, for some no- and low-cost solutions for your skin….

1) Facial massage. Forget the creams for a minute. The single thing (besides general good health) that will benefit your face? Massage. Seriously. Wrinkles? Massage them. Sagging jaws? Massage them. Double chin? Again, Massage. Now, you can do this with your finger tips, with your favorite *rounded end* crystal or even with an electro-acupuncture device. But, bottom line is, massage!

You can combine the following facial exercises with your skin care program. Due to the fact that skin responds well to this type of stimulation, you will see results in lines, complexion, tone and elasticity. As an added bonus, this type of massage strengthens the underlying muscles and results in the signs of aging becoming diminished.

Use the balls of your fingertips as well as the palms of your hands. For all exercises, use gentle, but firm, pressure – this is not supposed to hurt!

If you notice that some spots you massage are tender this means you are probably hitting the precise spots. Tenderness will diminish and disappear altogether with time.

Toning around the eyes

Using your favorite moisturizer or essential oil blend, use your middle fingers to work around each eye simultaneously. Use slight pressure – be gentle with the eye area – and circle the eyes from the inside corner of your eybrows, following the entire eybrow, and back around to where you started.

Repeat this circular massage 30-35 times (in one sitting) each day.

This type of stimulation of the facial muscles will tone, relax and increase circulation to the eye area, which in turn results in diminished signs of aging.

Revitalizing the Eyes

In this exercise, the acupressure point at the side of your face, approximately 1/4 inch past the outside corner of your eye (this is right on the outer curve of the bone around the eye), is stimulated. The second point to stimulate is directly in line and under your pupil on the top edge of the cheekbone.

This massage can soften lines and wrinkles in the eye area. Starting with the corner points, press each simultaneously for 3 seconds and then release for a count of three. Do this 30 times and then move on to the point on the cheek bone. Do all of this in one sitting and repeat these sets 3 times a day if possible.

Full Facial Acupressure Treatment

This is similar to the above exercise except it involves many more points. It is recommended that you do this full facial acupressure treatment twice per week. Follow the hold and press with the balls of your fingertips instructions from the Revitalizing the Eyes exercise. All points which are on both sides of the face, do simultaneously. The forehead, upper lip and chin points are done singly.

You can combine therapies with this easily by choosing a rounded-end crystal with which to press/hold or massage your face. This incorporates the healing power of crystals as well as color healing into your beauty massage routine.

This is the premium face lift acupressure massage routine. Trust me, if you get into the habit of doing this, you WILL notice a difference in your face and you won’t have spent a dime to get it.

2) Water – yes, yes, I know I spouted off about water before, but it’s important. Internally AND externally. Make SURE you wash your face twice a day – finishing the wash with a cool water rinse. And, when you have a few spare minutes….don’t just hastily put the cleanser on and rinse off – take a couple minutes to massage your face – during the wash and during the rinse.

3) Oxygen – I know this sounds silly, but oxygen is important – as a matter of fact, it’s crucial. So, BREATHE – breathe deep and long. Start by breathing in for a count of 4 and out for a count of four – do this five times. See if you can work your way up to a count of 15 – practice it throughout the day, but do it at *least* once a day. Sun and free radicals aren’t the only things that cause wrinkles, ya know – stress does too. And what do we do when stressed? We breath more shallow, our heart rate goes up, our digestion stops, our blood pressure goes up and blood is diverted to the limbs from all ‘non-essential’ body systems. Bring the blood and oxygen back – BREATHE. Speaking of oxygen… try to get some fresh air each day too!

Topically

1) Cleansing – At the very least use a mild and gentle cleanser such as a Dove beauty bar. If you want a cleanser that ‘works’ for your skin, get one with Alpha Lipoic Acid, Vitamin C and DMAE.

2) Frownies!!! – I swear, these work! They are inexpensive and look silly, but I, along with a host of Hollywood beauties, will swear by them. Frownies are facial pads made from natural, skin-friendly materials. Frownies are applied to the forehead and corners of the eyes and mouth to gently re-educate the underlying muscles to assume their correct, relaxed and natural appearance. Frownies, in fact, allow the deep expression lines to heal leaving younger, relaxed-looking skin. Best part? Under $20 – AND 100% money-back guaranteed. And, believe it or not, a mom invented these for her daughter in, get this….1889! Worth the money, worth the hassle – this is the ONE thing I wouldn’t do without!

3) DMAE Cream – This is a must and be sure to get one that also has Vitamin C and Alpha Lipoic Acid. The combination of Alpha Lipoic Acid, Vitamin C Ester and DMAE Cream has been proven as an unbeatable anti-aging Skin Care treatment. DMAE Cream has been called “face lift in a jar” by some skin specialists. It helps firm and tighten facial and neck skin. With continued use, it helps strengthen and stabilize cells’ plasma membrane for a more defined youthful appearance.

4) Sunscreen – I know, I know, you’ve heard it before! Well, listen this time! Protect your face from the sun! Excessive sun exposure is one of the leading cause of wrinkles and dry skin.

5) Using essential oils for beauty instead of chemicals – I LOVE essential oils (which is probably why I became a Certified Aromatherapist!) – Oils are amazing. They penetrate the skin and they can address all sorts of complexion issues and skin conditions. Essential oils have a profound effect on skin. And, although I don’t have room to tout the benefits of every oil, here are the top contenders:

a) Helichrysum – Great for Skin Conditions (Eczema, dermatitis, Psoriasis) May help blood Circulation, Scar Tissue, and varicose veins. It helps regenerate tissue, Detoxify and stimulate liver cell function.

b) Bergamot – Anti-inflammatory (Acne IS an inflammatory disease, remember!) Helps oily complexion.

c) Carrot Seed – Amazing for Skin Care. Carrot Seed is awesome for Dry Skin, Wrinkles, Eczema, Psoriasis

d) Cedarwood – may help with Acne, Anxiety, Dandruff, Psoriasis, skin diseases. It also helps to reduce oily skin.

e) German Chamomile – Promotes the regeneration of skin and can be used for abscesses, Burns, Rashes, cuts, and dermatitis. It is also helpful for Acne, Eczema, infected nails, sores, Skin Disorders, Stress-related complaints, and wounds.

f) Roman Chamomile – Neutralizes Allergies and increases the ability of the skin to regenerate. It is a Cleanser of the blood and also helps the liver discharge poisons. This oil may help with Allergies, Bruises, cuts, Depression, Insomnia, Muscle Tension, nerves (calming and promoting nerve health), and Skin Conditions such as Acne, dermatitis, Eczema, Rashes and sensitive skin.

g) Elemi – Widely regarded today for protecting and rejuvenating the skin, reducing Wrinkles and Scarring and stimulating nerves.

h) Geranium – Balances the sebum, which is the fatty secretion in the sebaceous glands of the skin that keep the skin supple. Helps cleanse oily skin and restores and enlivens pale skin.

i) Jasmine – Beneficial for the skin, uplifting. Ideal for Skin Care and for dry, oily, irritated or sensitive skin.

j) Rosewood – May create skin elasticity and is soothing to the skin. It is recognized for its ability to get rid of Candida of the skin and slow the aging process. It may also be beneficial for cuts, tissue regeneration and wounds. It helps to create a synergism with all other oils.

To read more about using essential oils for beauty, click here: http://www.natural-holistic-health.com/alternative-therapies/aromatherapy/essential-oils-for-beauty/

The Challenge….Are Ya Up For It?

Here’s my challenge – to myself and all of you (and I want to HEAR about if you did it, how well you did and what results you had!!!)

I will…….

1) Take one hour a day for ME. I know I waste at LEAST an hour a day on stupid stuff (such as worrying, staring off into space, whatever) In that hour I will enjoy washing my face, doing my acupressure massage, my slow/deep breathing and my dry skin brushing. That’ll take, what? 30 minutes? Ok, the other 30 minutes is going to be yoga or dancing or any other form of exercise I can think of – even climbing the steps in my house 15 times in a row – whatever it takes!

2) I will drink at least 4 bottles of water a day

3) I will replace ONE snack a day with a yummy fruit or vegetable.

4) I will replace 3 cups of coffee and/or 3 glasses of coke with 3 cups of green tea (or herbal tea).

5) I will take my vitamins

6) I will LIKE me, dangit – I will remind myself at least once a day that I’m pretty cool and I will spend a few minutes just enjoying being me.

7) Once a week I will do the detox bath and the full facial massage – twice a week on the massage if I can fit it in.

I will at LEAST drink a protein/Ensure drink every morning to get my day started right. (heck, a V-8 would work too!)

9) I will LAUGH

and…

10) I won’t stop doing this when the month is over nor will I ‘give up’ on the plan altogether if I get too busy or forget to stick to my plan!

Your turn….and remember, you gotta let me know how you do!

Sources:
http://vibrantskin.net/3/pop3.htm
http://www.healthynewage.com/facelift.html
http://www.naturalhealthtechniques.com/HealingTechniques/Dry_Brushing_Technique.htm
http://www.helpguide.org/life/humor_laughter_health.htm
http://stress.about.com/od/stresshealth/a/laughter.htm

The effects of color on life must have been of great significance to early human beings, whose very existence was governed by light and darkness. Most living things appear to be vitalized by the bright reds, oranges, and yellows of daylight — and calmed and rejuvenated by the blues, indigos, and violets of the night. For the ancients, the colors that make up sunlight were each considered to show a different aspect of the divine and to influence different qualities of life. Color is therefore an important feature in the symbolism of ancient cultures throughout the world, and the origins of healing with color in Western civilization can be traced back to the mythology of Ancient Egypt and Greece.

IN THE ANCIENT WORLD

According to Ancient Egyptian mythology, the art of healing with color was founded by the god Thoth. He was known to the Ancient Greeks as Hermes Trismegistus, literally “Hermes thrice-greatest”, because he was also credited with various works on mysticism and magic. Teachings attributed to him include the use of color in healing. In the Hermetic tradition, the Ancient Egyptians and Greeks used colored minerals, stones, crystals, salves, and dyes as remedies, and painted treatment sanctuaries in various shades of color.

Interest in the physical nature of color developed in Ancient Greece alongside the concept of the elements � air, fire, water, and earth. These fundamental constituents of the universe were associated with the qualities of coldness, heat, wetness and dryness, and also with four humors or bodily fluids � choler or yellow bile, blood (red), phlegm (white), and melancholy or black bile. These were thought to arise in four organs � the spleen, heart, liver, and brain � and to determine emotional and physical disposition. Health involved the proper balance of these humors, and disease would result if their mixture was in an unbalanced proportion. Color was intrinsic to healing, which involved restoring the balance. Colored garments, oils, plasters, ointments, and salves were used to treat disease.

By the end of the Classical period in Greece, these principles were included in the scientific framework that was to remain largely unchanged in the West until the Middle Ages. In the first century A.D., Aurelius Cornelius Celsus followed the doctrines established by Pythagoras and Hippocrates and included the use of colored ointments, plasters, and flowers in several treatises on medicine.

DURING THE MIDDLE AGES

With the coming of Christianity, however, all that was pagan was exorcised, including the healing practices of the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans. The progress of medicine throughout Europe was effectively halted while those who clung to traditional principles and practices of healing were persecuted. The ancient healing arts, preserved by secret oral tradition passed on to the initiates, thus became hidden or “occult”.

It was an Arab physician and disciple of Aristotle, Avicenna (980-circa 1037), who advanced the art of healing. In his Canon of Medicine he made clear the vital importance of color in both diagnosis and treatment. Avicenna, noting that color was an observable symptom of disease, developed a chart which related color to temperament and the physical condition of the body. He used color in treatment — insisting that red moved the blood, blue or white cooled it, and yellow reduced pain and inflammation — prescribing potions of red flowers to cure blood disorders, and yellow flowers and morning sunlight to cure disorders of the biliary system.

Avicenna wrote also of the possible dangers of color in treatment, observing that a person with a nosebleed, for example, should not gaze at things of a brilliant red color or be exposed to red light because this would stimulate the sanguineous humor, whereas blue would soothe it and reduce blood flow.

The Renaissance saw a resurgence in the art of healing in Europe. One of the most renowned healers of the period was Theophrastus Bombastus von Hohenheim (1493-1541), known as Paracelsus, who attributed his understanding of the laws and practices of medicine to his conversations with witches (women who were primarily pagan healers purged by the Church).

Paracelsus regarded light and color as essential for good health and used them extensively in treatment, together with elixirs, charms and talismans, herbs and minerals. A great exponent of alchemy, Paracelsus insisted that its true purpose was not to make gold, but to prepare effective medicines. He used liquid gold to treat ailments of all kinds, apparently with a good deal of success. Consequently his fame as a great physician spread throughout Europe.

ENLIGHTENMENT, SCIENCE & HEALING

However, after the Middle Ages Paracelsus and other alchemists lost their prestige when mysticism and magic were overtaken by rationalism and science. By the eighteenth century, “enlightenment” had taken on a new meaning. It was the name given to a philosophical movement that stressed the importance of reason and the critical appraisal of existing ideas. Reason dictated that all knowledge had to be certain and evident; anything about which there could be doubt was rejected. As a result the divine gradually disappeared from the scientific world view.

By the nineteenth century, the emphasis in science was exclusively on the material rather than the spiritual. As medicine came under the umbrella of science it, too, focused on the material physical body, ignoring the mind and spirit. With the advent of physical medicine, and such treatments as surgery and antiseptics, interest in healing with color declined. It didn’t resurface until the nineteenth century, and then not in Europe but North America.

In 1876, Augustus Pleasanton published Blue and Sun-lights, in which he reported his findings on the effects of color in plants, animals, and humans. He claimed that the quality, yield, and size of grapes could be significantly increased if they were grown in greenhouses made with alternating blue and transparent panes of glass. He also reported having cured certain diseases and increased fertility, as well as the rate of physical maturation in animals, by exposing them to blue light. In addition, Pleasanton maintained that blue light was effective in treating human disease and pain. His work gained supporters but was dismissed by the medical establishment as unscientific.

However, in 1877 a distinguished physician named Dr. Seth Pancoast published Blue and Red Lights, in which he, too, advocated the use of color in healing.

Edwin Babbit’s The Principles of Light and Color was published in 1878; the second edition, published in 1896, attracted worldwide attention. Babbit advanced a comprehensive theory of healing with color. He identified the color red as a stimulant, notably of blood and to a lesser extent to the nerves; yellow and orange as nerve stimulants; blue and violet as soothing to all systems and with anti-inflammatory properties. Accordingly, Babbit prescribed red for paralysis, consumption, physical exhaustion, and chronic rheumatism; yellow as a laxative, emetic and purgative, and for bronchial difficulties; and blue for inflammatory conditions, sciatica, meningitis, nervous headache, irritability, and sunstroke. Babbit developed various devices, including a special cabinet called the Thermolume, which used colored glass and natural light to produce colored light; and the Chromo Disk, a funnel-shaped device fitted with special color filters that could localize light onto various parts of the body.

Babbit established the correspondence between colors and minerals, which he used as an addition to treatment with colored light, and developed elixirs by irradiating water with sunlight filtered through colored lenses. He claimed that this “potentized” water retained the energy of the vital elements within the particular color filter used, and that it had remarkable healing power. Solar tinctures of this kind are still made and used today by many color therapists.

Chromopaths then sprang up throughout the country and Britain, developing extensive color prescriptions for every conceivable ailment. By the end of the nineteenth century, red light was used to prevent scars from forming in cases of smallpox, and startling cures were later reported among tuberculosis patients exposed to sunlight and ultraviolet rays. Nevertheless, the medical profession remained skeptical of claims made about healing with color.

About the Author

Helen Graham is a lecturer in psychology at Keele University in England and she has specialized in color research for a number of years. She also presents workshops on the use of color healing. This article was excerpted with permission from her book Discover Color Therapy, published by Ulysses Press. Ulysses Press/Seastone Books are available at bookstores throughout the US, Canada, and the UK, or can be ordered directly from Ulysses Press by calling 800-377-2542, faxing 510-601-8307, or writing to Ulysses Press, PO Box 3440, Berleley, CA 94703, email ulysses@hiddenguides.com Their website is www.hiddenguides.com

Colors For Common Physical Problems

* Allergies – Blue, Yellow
* Eyes – Purple or Indigo
* Pancreas – Yellow
* Arms & Legs – Use combination of all colors
* Gall Bladder – Yellow
* Poor Circulation – Red
* Asthma, Emphysema – Green & Blue
* Hair Growth – Purple or Indigo
* Nasal Problems – Blue & Yellow
* Bladder – Red
* Headache – Blue or Purple
* Rashes – Blue or Color Corresponding to that part of the body
* Bones – Yellow
* Heart Problems – Green
* Reproductive Organs – Red
* Burns – Blue
* Hemorrhoids – Red
* Skin – Blue or color corresponding to that part of the body
* Circulation and Blood – Red
* Infections & Killing Germs in General – Purple
* Sore Feet – Use Combination of all colors
* Colds, Sore throat – Blue
* Kidneys – Orange
* Spine – Yellow
* Colon – Upper – Yellow, Lower – Orange
* Liver Problems – Yellow
* Strength, Physical – Red
* Cuts – Blue, Purple or indigo
* Lungs & Bronchial Tubes – Green and Blue
* Stomach Problems – Yellow
* Diaphram & Abdomen – Yellow
* Lymph System – Blue or Yellow
* Spleen – Orange
* Ear Aches – Purple or indigo
* Menstrual Cramps – Red
* Thyroid – Blue
* Toothaches – Blue

Colors for Psychological Effects

* Balancing all Emotions & Mind – Green or use all Rainbow colors in a sequence from red thru violet then white.
* Growth of All Kinds – Green & All Rainbow Colors
* Calming – Green, Also Rainbow Sequence. (See Balancing)
* Broken Heart, Loss – Light Blue and Green, Pink
* Clear Communications – Blue
* Love – Green, Pink or White
* Confidence – All Rainbow Colors, with emphasis on Yellow. (See Balance)
* Patience – Blue & Green, Pink
* Confusion, Indecision, concentration – Yellow
* Protection from Others Emotions – Circle of White light or string, etc. or mental image
* Depression – Yellow, Pink (Avoid Dark Blue, Grey, & Black)
* Relationship Harmony – Blues & Greens
* Developing ESP – Indigo, Purple, or Violet
* Releasing Unwanted Habits/Emotions – Silver, Topaz (yellow) & Amethyst (purple)
* General Energy Level – Orange (Caffeine & Alcohol drain energy)
* Low Sex Drive – Red &/or Orange
* Spiritual Growth – Indigo, Purple and/or Violet
* Universal Healing Colors – Good for healing all areas: White & Especially Blue

Suggested Sources For Each Color

There are many more colors and many possible sources for the colors we need. Here are some recommended sources for the most frequently used colors:

* White – Candles, Light, Flowers, Morning Sunlight
* Green – Plants, Foods, Forests, Lighting, Imagery
* Violet – Light, Candles, Images, Color-treated water
* Yellow – Foods, Sun, Lighting, Sheets, Clothes, Candles, Imagery
* Indigo or Purple – Light, Clothes, Imagery, Candles and awater treated with purple light.
* Orange – Foods, Clothes, Flowers, Lighting
* Blue – Hot packs, Water, Clothes, Sheets, Lighting , Imagery, Etc.
* Red – Clothes, Cranberry Juice, Candles, Red Rose Tea.

Color Frequencies

RED
Red is the color of energy, vitality and power. It is used for burning out cancer, drying up weeping sores or wounds, etc.; it will warm cold areas to reduce pain. Red is a powerful healing agent for healing diseases of the blood and circulation. It will help with depression. Red is not to be used on people with high blood pressure or anxiety. If you stay under the red ray too long or are exposed to red for a considerable time it will make you very agitated or even aggressive. It is associated with the male polarity. A red carpet or wall – in a place of business – will draw money. If you are a sales person – try wearing something red!!

ORANGE
The mental body in both its logical and conceptual form. It is used to increase immunity, to increase sexual potency, to help in all digestive ailments, chest and kidney diseases. Orange will have a gentle warming effect if used lightly. Orange, like red should not be used for too long. It is not a good color for nervous people or people easily agitated.

PEACH
The peach frequency is used for peace, truth, and balance.

YELLOW
Yellow is the color of intellect and it is used for mental stimulation, it will help you think quicker. It is good for clearing a foggy head. To help cure dermatitis and other skin problems and again it must be used carefully because it is very stimulating and it could cause exhaustion and depression.

GREEN
Green is the color of healing and traveling back in time. It will balance the emotions and brings about a feeling of calmness. Green is a good general healing color because it stimulates growth therefore it is good for helping heal broken bones – re-growth of tissue of all kinds.

Green as a healing frequency you can place it around family members who are ill. Though many of you are not attuned in the palms of your hands with this frequency color – it is part of you now.

If you wish to heal someone – begin by asking the person if they wish to be healed. That may sound like a silly question but it is necessary. Help them find the emotional base for the ailment if you can, before you heal anyone.

You cannot promise to heal them but you can make them feel more comfortable and show them how healing is done. Perhaps you can awaken the healing abilities in others. Just remember not to force this with anyone who is not ready and that healing is not for everyone.

When you and the person are ready to begin, find a calm quiet place. Be sure the person is relaxed with what you are doing and assure them you will not hurt them in any way. If you have a favorite healing crystal–use that when you heal.

The person can sit or lay down. No need to remove their clothing. Work first with the emotional aspects of the problem. Give the person hope. Get them to relax.

Ask your guides to protect you so their energies do not enter into your frequency.

Visualize the color green coming through your palms as you hold them just above –or gently on–someone with a problem.

Scan their body for ‘hot’ or ‘cold’ spots. That is where the blockages are. Tell them what you are doing and what you see and feel.

Now visualize the green healing energies coming through you as you work. Visualize them entering the person’s body at the higher levels, especially the emotional body. Watch them sift through the cells of the person who is ill and moving the Chi energies.

You can have a third person take a picture of your doing the healing to see if you get a green aura of light around you or the person.

Feel your connection to the higher frequencies as you heal. Work with the heart chakra, as it is the frequency green. You may even take it to the newer frequency of green=turquoise (green -blue).

There is no time limit for this. Usually a few minutes is all that is needed. Try to repeat the healing for 3 consecutive days–10 minutes a day.

You can heal yourself as well. You can teach others to use the color green to heal. You can send the green frequency to the planet for healing.

Try a past life regression with someone you trust placing them in the green bubble. See where you knew them in another lifetime. Green takes you back in time. Today let’s use the green frequency to connect with nature. Prepare as you would for meditation.

Once relaxed–see yourself in nature–a beautiful green field–flowers–animal–the mineral kingdom. Wander through the field…perhaps you meet some of the Nature Spirits. Ask your spirit guide to meet you there and walk with you. He / she waits with his hand extended to you. Feel the energies of the nature kingdom. Connect your energies with them . . .become one with a plant, tree, forest of green. Once your have become connected look through the eyes of the plant. Can it communicate with other plants? If so, how? Try it? Call out to a plant in your home–garden–neighborhood. Say ‘hello’! Ask about the changing frequencies.

Do all of the trees communicate globally as is written? Become a tree and experience on that level. Ask the tree about planet changes now.

Connect to the energies of the ‘indigenous people’ and experience nature through their eyes. After all, isn’t this planet all about experience in the third dimension?

Use your green light to send love and balance to all of nature today.

BLUE
Blue is the color of truth, serenity and harmony, by helping to soothe the mind. Blue is good for cooling, calming, reconstructing and protecting. Blue will help feverish conditions, it will help stop bleeding and it will help with nervous irritations. It is very good for burns. Too much blue could leave you cold, depressed and sorrowful.

PURPLE
Purple is also a color that will connect you with your spiritual self. It is good for mental and nervous problems. It will assist very well with rheumatism and epilepsy. Helps with pain, is used in deep tissue work and helps heal the bones. Too much purple and you don’t tend to live in this world. .

LAVENDER
Lavender is the color of equilibrium, it helps with spiritual healing. The Violet Flame – is supposedly charged with the light of divine freedom. It is used to burn off karma from other lifetimes on all levels.

WHITE
White includes the entire colors spectrum. It represents the source of conscious creation. It will purify the body on the highest levels. It is the highest charging field to bring peace and comfort at the highest level. White can also substitute for any other color.

The Frequency of White Light.
Innocence, chastity–triumphant of spirit over the flesh. These are some of the reasons a bride wears white in most societies. White denotes spiritual authority. In the Orient, in ancient Greece and Rome, it is the color for mourning. I think the deceased wear white as well. A woman wearing a white robe denotes the love-life-death meaning such as Delphic Aphrodite of Tombs, the Scandinavian Frigg (that not a swear -smile-) and Teutonic Hel/Freya–which is the Beloved–goddess of death. White combined with red and black depict the three stages of initiation. Of course everyone knows a white flag means surrender.

In Alchemy white does the `The White Lily’ represent the feminine principle as? It is the Second Stage of the great work as well as the purity of the undivided Light. In the Arendian white is sacred. To the Aztec it was the dying sun or night.

To the Buddhist tradition, white is self-mastery and redemption. It is representative of being lead from bondage—the highest spiritual transformation. In Celtic tradition the terrestrial goddess wore white.

To the Chinese white is mourning, Druid priests wore white and it was the color of baptism. If I remember correctly then white and green were used to symbolize joy in Egypt.

Greek tradition uses white for mourning, love, and life…in just about all themes white is symbolic there. In Hinduism, white is symbolic of Pure Consciousness—sattva– upward movement, the light and manifestation. Maori tradition holds white as meaning truce or surrendering. To the Mayan in represented peace and health.

Roman tradition wore it for very propitious occasions White is probably one of the most respected and well received of all the colors.

All cultures and societies seem to embrace the color white as pure, innocent and auspicious. The acceptance of white has weaved itself through all millennia from religion, philosophies, and poetry and just about every human endeavor. Each time I study the different energy patterns and associations we give to colors—white seems to be the one that humankind writes the most about…when it comes to higher ideals and anything that represents the loftier values we see it as white.

SILVER
Silver is the color of peace and persistence. It is the major purging color so it is very good for removing unwanted diseases and troubles from the body. It is best for cancer of tissue and blood.

GOLD
Gold represents of alchemy of consciousness. It is the strongest color to help cure all illness. It is so strong that many people are not able to tolerate it, so people have to be conditioned to gold over a period of time. Gold strengthens all fields of the body and soul.

BLACK
Black is a color that is not used very often but it will help bring a patient to a state of grace. It will help them reach the silence and peace. Black opens up the deeper levels of the unconscious and is used in rituals to induce a deep meditational state, or to banish evil or negativity as in uncrossing rituals; attracts Saturn energy.

Incense and Uses

Money-Drawing Incenses:
-Cedar
-Chamomile
-Cinnamon
-Cinquefoil
-Clove
-Elder
-Fern
-Ginger
-Goldenrod
-Honeysuckle
-Jasmine
-Mint
-Patchouly
-Pine
-Tea
-Vervain

Protection Incenses:
-Amaranth
-Angelica
-Ash
-Bay
-Birch
-Carnation
-Cedar
-Cinnamon
-Cinquefoil
Clove
-Dragon’s Blood
-Elder Fern
-Frankincense
-Garlic
-Heather
-Lavender
-Mint
-Mugwort
-Myrrh
-Pine
-Rose
-Rowan
-Sandalwood
-Valerian
-Vervain
-Willow

Incense & The Elements

Earth Incenses:
-Fern
-Mugwort
-Patchouly
-Vervain

Air Incenses:
-Broom
-Clover
-Dandelion
-Eyebright
-Hops
-Lavendar
-Lemongrass
-Mint
-Pine

Fire Incenses:
-Angelica
-Ash
-Bay
-Cedar
-Cinnamon
-Cinquefoil
-Clove
-Dragon’s Blood
-Frankincense
-Peppermint
-Rosemary

Water Incenses:
-Apple
-Avacado
-Catnip
-Chamomile
-Elder
-Heather
-Jasmine
-Lemon
-Lilac
-Myrrh
-Orchid
-Rose
-Sandalwood
-Spearmint
-Strawberry
-Valerian
-Vanilla
-Violet
-Willow
-Wintergreen

About the author

Charles Lightwalker is a Metis shaman, author, medical intuitive, and healer. For more information visit the web site: www.thefamilyoflight.com.

Atlantis, Lemuria, and ancient Egypt, India, China, are all cultures who understood color therapy and who used it in their healing practices.

In the 19th and 20th centuries there were people who used color therapy to treat the sick. Dr. Edwin Babbit from England in the 1800′s used color healing, by putting light directly on the body and he used water placed in colored bottles as elixirs for patients to drink. Dr. Dimhah Chadiali in the early 1900′s developed Spectro-Chrome, which applies various colors to specific areas of the body to create healing.

All of this work was lost when the American medical community turned its back on this research and banned color therapy devices. Today, the medical community is just starting to explore this area of healing, as well as other “alternative” healing modalities.

20 years ago, I completed my education in psychology, sociology, and spiritualism. I became an ordained minister and counselor, working with several community service organizations. Around this time I also became very interested in Shamanism, and alternative healing methods. Color therapy has been used by native healers for centuries. On earth, color is known for its healing properties. Color in the environment has a subtle but definite impact upon the well being of a person. The colors in your clothes can affect how you feel in your day-to-day life. The colors of the furniture, and the colors in the rooms we place the furniture in impact us. Color is a frequency of light, just like tuning forks have specific colors associated with those frequencies.

The color therapist, just like sound therapists utilize specific colors to effect ones vibrational field of energy, to treat imbalances in the human form. Color therapy and sound therapy can align the spiritual essence of a person (chakra, meridians,& organs).

The color or sound therapists see the client as a multidimensional person, who expresses him or herself physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Much of the benefits of a color therapy or sounding healing session depends on the client and how open they are to these frequencies.

I do all of my healings when possible inside of a healing vortex. A space created to facilitate the healing process. This healing space is set up with specific colored stones in a geometrical pattern that creates a vibrational field of energy that I call a healing space.

This, along with the various color and sound tools creates an opportunity for the client to truly heal themselves, I just assist the process enfoldment.

About the author

Charles Lightwalker is a Metis shaman, author, medical intuitive, and healer. For more information visit the web site: www.thefamilyoflight.com.