Even though you might have brushed your teeth after lunch, there is still that little nagging doubt that leaves you wondering if the coffee or the cigarette enjoyed after lunch will have left their marks on your breath. Considered one of the most stigmatized problems in society, bad breath is a fear that you cannot overcome, and as you are moving toward the meeting your mind is working furiously on a solution.

Rest easy, there are several home remedies for bad breath you can use at the office.

* Check your drawer for essential oils of mint, peppermint or wintergreen. Oftentimes they are sold over the counter of convenience stores as supposedly holistic approaches to fighting off a cold, and the odds are good that you or an office mate purchased one of the little vials. A drop or two on the back and the front of your tongue will do the trick and instantly serve to freshen up your breath and mask any unpleasantness.

* Did your lunch come with a sprig of parsley or mint? Mostly used as garnishes, these herbs, when chewed, release chlorophyll. The latter is a known deodorizer and will also serve to take any sourness away from your breath. Unlike essential oils, they add very little smell to your breath at all, and so you will go into the meeting with essentially neutralized breath.

* Check the kitchen fridge. You most likely will find that fake yellow lemon used for those who drink tea and like a splash of the tart liquid to add flavor to their drinks. A tablespoon of the substance diluted with a small Dixie cup of lukewarm water makes for an emergency mouthwash and gargle. Rinse out your mouth with the substance, swish it around a bit, gargle, spit it out, and then repeat the entire process two or three times. Although only a temporary fix, it is certain to have some positive effect on your breath. Keep drinking water at the meeting to stay hydrated and surreptitiously swish around your mouth and swallow. This gets rid of the odor causing bacteria.

* If all else fails, you are certain to find salt in the office kitchen. Dissolve a tablespoon in a small cup of lukewarm water and use like the lemon gargle described above.

While you are in the meeting, stay away from coffee and instead opt for water or citrus based drinks. They will keep your breath fresh and at the same time allow you to partake in the hospitality portion of the meeting. Although these solutions are most likely not going to take away the offensive odor or a just consumed meal containing copious amounts of garlic, they will take care of some of the lesser offenders.

Symptoms of a kidney stone are pain, nausea, vomiting, blood in the urine and frequency. Diagnosis of a kidney stone is made by urine and imaging tests. Further testing to determine the type of stone is accomplished through analysis, history, blood work and additional testing of the urine.

Treatment of kidney stones is based on the size of the stone itself. If the stone is relatively small in size then it will likely pass from your body on its own. It is recommended that pain medication be taken, such as a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory.

If the pain cannot be tolerated with this then additional pain medication prescribed by your doctor can be provided. It is also advised that a person drink approximately 8-10 glasses of fluid each day. Contrary to belief, grapefruit juice is not recommended. This juice may cause you to have an increased risk for kidney stone development.

There is also a medication that can help your body in the passing of a stone. These medications are known as calcium channel blockers. Your physician may also prescribe alpha-blockers. If this treatment is not effective and your condition is very painful, obstruction of the urinary tract is noted or you have an infection then additional options for treatment are available. These additional treatments would include:

Ureteroscopy: A telescope, thin in diameter, is inserted up through the urinary tract and the stone located. Instruments are then used to break up or remove the stone. A stent, which is a small tube, may also be used to be put in place and left for drainage purposes. This procedure is commonly used for stones that have traveled out of the kidney and into the ureter.

Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy, also known as ESWL: This method of treatment uses shock waves that are easily emitted through the body. These shock waves can break up the kidney stone. This particular method is a common practice in the treatment of kidney stones.

Percutaneous nephrolithotomy or nephrolithotripsy: A thin telescope is used and inserted into the kidney. This is done through a laceration in the back area. The stone is removed or broken up. If ESWL treatment is ineffective this method is used. This procedure is also done due to a larger than normal stone.

Surgery: Removal of a stone through a surgeons cut in the tummy or the side for easier removal of a stone. This method is rarely used, however.

KidneyStone Clear is a safe, non-addictive, FDA-registered natural remedy containing 100% homeopathic ingredients selected to dissolve and clear kidney stones. KidneyStone Clear may be taken at the first sign of pain or discomfort, as it works quickly to relieve pain in the flanks or lower back, as well as alleviate the symptoms of sweating, nausea and vomiting.

This remedy contains a selection of homeopathic ingredients known to support overall kidney and urinary tract health, without side effects. KidneyStone Clear is taken internally and presented in a convenient, concentrated tincture formula. It is easy to ingest and hassle–free with no artificial colors or preservatives. It is safe for all ages, including pregnant women or those who may be breastfeeding.

Magnesium happens only in 1% concentration in the blood and the body has to work very hard in order to keep levels constant. It is required to carry out a variety of biochemical functions including enzymatic activity. The recommended dietary allowance for men is 410 mg up to age 18, 400 mg to age 30 and 420 mg for 31 and above. The recommended daily allowance for females is 360 mg up to age 18, 310 mg up to age 30 and 320 mg for ages 31 and above.

Researchers have found that magnesium will protect the cells from a variety of toxins such as aluminum, mercury, lead, cadmium, beryllium and nickel. Evidence is now mounting a low levels will contribute to the heavy metal deposition in the brain that precedes Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis and Alzheimer’s.

In addition to the before mentioned conditions a deficiency in magnesium has also been clinically associated with anxiety disorders, arrhythmia, arthritis, asthma, autism, cavities, chronic fatigue syndrome, congestive heart failure, constipation, depression, diabetes types one and two, eating disorders, fibromyalgia, high blood pressure, hypoglycemia, infantile seizures, heart disease, osteoporosis, obesity, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, PMS, Raynaud’s and thyroid disorders.

Symptom solve magnesium deficiency can also include increased menstrual cramps, urinary spasms, difficulty swallowing provoked by eating sugar, photophobia, noise sensitivity, insomnia, anxiety, panic attacks, Agoraphobia and premenstrual irritability. Individuals can also suffer from cardiovascular symptoms including palpitations, heart arrhythmias, angina, high blood pressure and mitral valve prolapse.

According to several nationwide studies the diets of most adults are deficient in magnesium and the diets of non-hispanic black Americans are more deficient than Hispanics or non-hispanic whites. Apart from the deficiency in the diet it is also excreted through the urine or through the gastrointestinal system if there is a disorder. The excessive or chronic diarrhea and vomiting can also lead to a magnesium deficiency.

Other causes of a magnesium deficiency can be related to decrease in the absorption or intake, lost through disease and illness or due to genetic disorders.

Diagnosis of this deficiency is rather limited since laboratory testing is of limited value. This year a magnesium can be normal in spite of a significant deficiency. There is a magnesium loading past in which the patient collects 24-hour urine sample on the total magnesium is measured. After this the individual is given an injection of a specific amount of magnesium and another 24-hour urine specimens collected. If the body retains more than a certain amount that it is concluded that the body is deficient. However, the best diagnosis is done through a combination of signs and symptoms which improve as a therapeutic trial of either oral or injected magnesium.

Those who are deficient you can change the situation by drinking water from mineral rich springs, having bottled spring water delivered to the home or installing carbon filters at the sink and shower since trace minerals are small enough molecules to be able to make it through carbon filter. Others may find it more convenient to take a mineral supplement in liquid or pill form or to use natural rock salt for cooking.

It is not difficult to get enough magnesium in your diet on a daily basis in order to take care of the magnesium needs that we all have in order to function appropriately. But it does mean that we must be intentional in our nutritional goals.

Kidney stones do not just stay in the kidney. It can move to other parts of the body. When that happens, you will feel certain symptoms. You could feel pain coming from your back or pelvis, experience spasms, notice bloody, cloudy or smelly urine, feel sick, urinate frequently and have fevers and chills.

It is hard to tell if you have kidney stones because these symptoms also happen when you have UTI or urinary tract infection. Your doctor can only tell which is which after conducting some tests.

The different tests available include blood test, urine analysis, x-rays, ultrasound and non-contrast helical computerized tomography. If initial reports and the results confirm that you have kidney stones, then the proper treatment is administered.

Doctors don’t know yet what causes kidney stones. Some believe it is caused by our lifestyle, due to certain medication, post surgery or therapy and in rare cases, a genetic disorder. This happens more often to men that women between the 20 to 40 age group.

If you are diagnosed with a kidney stone, you should know that treatment varies from one patient to the next because this depends on the kind of stone found in your kidney.

There are 4 types of kidney stones namely calcium uric acid, strutvite and cystine. The first 2 are the most common and if the size is less than 4 mm in diameter, you can expel it out of your system by drinking water and some medication.

Should the kidney stone be larger than 8 mm in diameter, this is the only time that surgery may be required.

The doctor may perform one of these procedures which include extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy, ureteroscopic stone removal and percutaneous nephrolithotomy. Each procedure is designed to shrink the kidney stone and if one treatment does not work, only then will they try something else. Surgery which has been practiced for so many years is now the last option.

Now that you know what kidney stones, is there a way to stop this from happening? Yes there is and the most effective way is through prevention. You do this by drinking 3 liters of water or 6 to 8 glasses a day, make some changes in your diet like eat and drink products that contain calcium and exercise regularly.

Kidney stones can happen to anyone regardless of age or gender but guys, you should be more careful because you are at greater risk of getting it. If you feel some pain, go and pay your doctor a visit. Don’t wait until it gets worse.

If it is a false alarm, then that is good. But if you do have kidney stones, cooperate with the doctor and follow his or her directions. You should also ask if the kidney stones have caused any permanent damage and what are the risks of the procedure if it requires medical intervention. Kidney stones do happen but don’t worry because it is after all, treatable.

KidneyStone Clear is a safe, non-addictive, FDA-registered natural remedy containing 100% homeopathic ingredients selected to dissolve and clear kidney stones. KidneyStone Clear may be taken at the first sign of pain or discomfort, as it works quickly to relieve pain in the flanks or lower back, as well as alleviate the symptoms of sweating, nausea and vomiting.

This remedy contains a selection of homeopathic ingredients known to support overall kidney and urinary tract health, without side effects. KidneyStone Clear is taken internally and presented in a convenient, concentrated tincture formula. It is easy to ingest and hassle–free with no artificial colors or preservatives. It is safe for all ages, including pregnant women or those who may be breastfeeding.

For years the common believe was that the oral gratification that the smoker received from lighting up was what was keeping them from eating. But recent research has shown that nicotine impacts the way in which insulin is used in the body and increases the blood sugar of smokers. This increased blood sugar (hyperglycemia) is an appetite suppressant which keeps the smoker from gaining weight.

However, when a smoker begins a cessation program they are faced with several challenges that pertain to weight gain or weight loss. The first is the immediate oral gratification that comes with lighting up a cigarette.

Many smokers enjoy a cigarette after a good meal, smoke in order to relieve anxiety or during times of stress. This immediate gratification must then be met in another way when the cigarette is removed from the situation. Smokers are also faced with the challenge of now being hungrier because they are no longer hyperglycemic, and of their sense of taste returning to normal so that food tastes better than they even remember.

Faced with each of these obstacles most smokers who are going through a cessation program believe that the extra 10 or 15 pound weight gain is inevitable in order to enjoy the health benefits not smoking. But, there are several tactics and strategies that can be used to reduce the effects of these challenges and reduce or eliminate the amount of weight that you might gain when going through a smoking cessation program.

The first thing to do is to make a plan. Remember that eating will be a challenge and recognize the obstacle before it arises. Talk with your doctor before quitting and get a consultation with a nutritionist to find out what healthy food choices fit your taste and lifestyle. Recognize that the choice to smoke often put you in certain circumstances that weren’t healthy to begin with, such as frequenting places where others smoke, lack of exercise, poor food choices and lack of sleep. It is important to address each of these issues in your plan to quit smoking.

Talk with your physician about an exercise program that would work well with your lifestyle, physical abilities and choices. If you don’t have hours to spend at the gym it might be in your best interest to start a walking program at home that you can do in the neighborhood. However, once an exercise program has been thoroughly incorporated into your daily regimen it is important to pick up weight training as well to increase muscle tone and calorie burn.

Nicotine will increase your metabolic rate slightly which increases the amount of calories you burn each day. You can make up the metabolic rate loss by adding muscle, which also burns calories at an increased rate. This will offset the decrease in metabolism you’ll experience when you stop smoking and the nicotine is removed from your body.

Avoid the areas of your life where smoking was part of the social situation, such as frequenting bars. You’ll not only lose the trigger to smoke but also the extra liquid calories you may have otherwise consumed.

Because smoking has satisfied an oral need for so many years it is important to find another way to satisfy that need. Keep hard candy and gum handy so when you are tempted to light up you can reach for a raw carrot to munch on or a piece of gum to chew. Keep track of the times of the day which you feel the cravings most often and plan to do other activities to keep yourself occupied.

And, drink plent of water! Weight loss experts have identified many different benefits to drinking water that positively impact your health and your attempts to lose weight. Especially during this time of your life when you are trying to lose the smoking habit and stop yourself from gaining weight, water can provide a means of flushing out the added toxins and wastes that have built up over the years of smoking, help decrease your appetite, and feed your cells the fluid they require.

It is important to remember to take on one challenge at a time. While it would be great if you didn’t gain one ounce while you were quitting smoking it may be better for your health if you don’t stress over gaining 5 pounds and concentrate instead on increasing your exercise and weight training so the weight doesn’t become permanent.

But, if you’re thirsty and water isn’t cutting it, what do you do? Well, for me that answer would be Coca Cola – ice cold, of course. For some it’d be a frost-brewed beer and others would opt for lemonade. But what’s the healthy choice here to both quench thirst AND aid our body’s health?

According to Jane Claxton-Oldfield, good old-fashioned soda pop has some major drawbacks. “…The fact that many sodas contain caffeine — a stimulant — is no secret. On the contrary, some soft drinks are being marketed on the basis of their high caffeine intake!”

She goes on to explain, “Too much caffeine can have serious consequences on health because it stimulates the release of adrenal hormones which can lead to a rise in blood pressure. The newer high caffeine ‘promise-to-give-a-burst-of-energy’ drinks are in particular a very poor choice for quenching thirst. Indeed, for every highly-caffeinated beverage you consume, it is wise to drink a glass or two of water to counteract their negative effects

“Another concern with soda is the high phosphorous to calcium ratio (most soft drinks have very little to no calcium). When we have too much phosphorus and not enough calcium, the body will draw calcium from the bones in order to correct the imbalance in our bloodstream.

“This can eventually lead to osteoporosis. As if that is not enough, there is also the concern with other additives, such as colour, that are all too often found in soft drinks.”

So, pop is out – at least it should be – but what choices does that leave us with?

A lot of folks are choosing fruit juices to take the edge off of that thirst and provide the body with much-needed vitamins and nutrients. But, while we’re talking fruit juice, what about that high sugar content? I guess there goes another idea down the proverbial tubes! Of course, we could fresh-squeeze our juice – but it takes quite a few oranges (about 10!) to make even one small glass of orange juice and in today’s economy, that isn’t necessarily the best idea.

What about eating a big, juicy orange? Or a slice of watermelon, a half of a canteloupe, some fresh pineapple or kiwi and mangos? You’d be surprised how much one serving of any one of these fruits will quell your thirst and give you the much-needed nutritional boost only whole foods can provide.

Another good idea is, of course, herbal teas. Herbal Sun Tea is the BEST during the hot summer months. Simply put 4-6 herbal tea bags in a glass pitcher or jar and sit outside in the sun until it reaches the strength you prefer.

When I’m in a hurry and don’t feel like making a pitcher of iced tea, I make a single cup of hot herbal tea (I let it steep a bit to get stronger than I’d normally drink it). Then I simply pour it in a glass, add a few ice cubes and add enough water to make a full 10 or 12 oz glass.

Trust me, this works really well and it’s yummy – in almost an instant! And, herbal teas such as a good green tea (high in antioxidants) or chamomile (great for those days you’re stressed and worried), or a citrus and spice tea (great for energy!), are very healthy alternatives to soda and beer.

Refreshing, Healthy & Yummy Instant Iced Tea

1 Green Tea bag (or orange and spice, chamomile or other herbal tea blend of your choice)
2 Orange Slices
5-7 Ice Cubes
Sweetener to Taste (I prefer honey!) (optional)
1 Cup

Pour boiling water into your cup and over your tea bag and let it steep for about 3 or 4 minutes. Add the ice cubes to a tall glass and pour the cup of tea over the cubes. Add sweetener to taste if needed. Add the orange slices to the mix, squeezing a bit as you put them in the glass. Top off glass with cold water and enjoy your healthy tea treat. I always gobble the orange slices when I finish my glass of tea.

Of course, I do have to add that drinking a small glass of fresh fruit juice (you can add some water to this to stretch it further) and your 8-10 glasses of water a day, are very healthy nutritional practices that we should all try to maintain.

What is Aging?

Some scientists and physicians suggest that aging is a ‘disease’. This is not a fair description. Aging is not a disease but part of the process of life itself! You cannot reverse aging but you can help slow it down to an optimal level which nature intended. So, how long should we live for? This is a subject of much debate and disagreement.

Some scientists claim extraordinary times…200+ years. However, this is really in the realm of science fiction. The position of Xtend-Life is that it is possible to live to the projected maximum human life span of 120 years. To achieve this, your life has to be well balanced! In other words, your lifestyle, your diet, the amount of exercise you do, the environment you live in and your nutrient intake have to be as close as possible to optimal.

To learn more about how aging occurs and ways to slow down your biological clock, visit Xtend-Life‘s Overview of Anti-Aging research page today.

To have the most fun – to get the most out of the experience – it’s important that you and your loved ones have the means to overcome those little ailments and discomforts that can make the experience range from mildly unpleasant to downright unbearable.

How can we include a little ‘Trip Insurance’ to our already overstuffed carry-ons or mini-vans? Aromatherapy has an answer with some readily-available essential oils.

Motion sickness, bug bites, digestive difficulties, and general travel weariness – to name a few – are common discomforts experienced when venturing away from home. A small collection of inexpensive essential oils can provide great relief from these amusement-threatening ailments.

‘Treatment’ with these oils is simple – ranging from inhaling a little oil from a tissue, to adding to a bath, to drinking a drop with a warm cup of water. And, thankfully, relief often comes quickly because of the oils’ powerful properties and compatibility with our own bodies.

Peppermint and Ginger Essential Oils – Tummy Troubles and Clearing the Head We’ll begin with ‘getting there’ – any trip starts with traveling. By car, boat, plane, or otherwise, motion sickness commonly effects many people, particularly children. This can easily make the ‘traveling’ portion of your experience absolutely no fun. Enter Peppermint essential oil.

Peppermint has long been used to calm uneasy stomachs, and is easily used. One drop (it is strong!) in a cup of warm water, sweetened if you like, can be sipped before and during the voyage. For the fussy ones, a drop can be added to a small amount of honey and taken from a spoon for the same effect.

Ginger essential oil is also known for it’s calming of upset stomachs – a little inhaled from a tissue or diluted in a carrier oil and rubbed on the abdomen can bring relief. One can also add a drop of ginger to warm water and drink as a strong tea – this may be effective for some food-related stomach issues as well, particularly when combined with the abdomen massage method.

Peppermint can also be uplifting to the weary driver or passenger – a drop or two placed on tissues in the car or near your seat will release the aroma into your surroundings. Be careful with this oil however, as getting it on sensitive areas of the skin (directly under the nose, and certainly near the eyes) can cause irritation. Tissues with the oil on it should not touch these areas directly.

Lavender Oil – the Great Soother

Lavender has been called ‘a medicine chest in a bottle’ due to its wide range of effects. The aroma of Lavender is uplifting and relaxing, useful for stress in congested airports or crowded highways. Breathing this very safe essential oil is effective for adults and children alike – inhaling drops from a tissue directly, or from one’s placed in your surroundings can help you and your companions be at ease.

Plus Thyme, Tea Tree and Eucalyptus – Cleansing and Keeping Bugs and Bites at Bay

Lavender essential oil is also an effective wound-healer because of it’s anti-inflammatory, mild antibacterial, and skin-regenerative actions. It can be used directly in case of burns, mixed 50:50 with Tea Tree and put on band aids to prevent infection, or blended with Thyme Linalol and Eucalyptus (2:4:2) and added to a bowl of water for an effective disinfectant wash. Lavender is very useful for treating bites and stings – just place a little ‘neat’ (undiluted) on the affected area.

This versatile oil is also a component of an insect repellent blend comprised of equal parts of Lavender, Thyme Linalol, and Peppermint, and a double-dose of Lemongrass essential oil. A drop or more placed on tissue or cloth about your room can keep the insects out of your space; 3 drops of this blend per teaspoon of carrier oil can be regularly applied to the skin – or you may mix a similar amount into any lotion you may have.

Lavender can be used in combination with Geranium, Chamomile, Peppermint and Eucalyptus oils in relieving the effects of jet-lag. Getting out of this weary state as quickly as possible makes any trip more enjoyable. This requires getting yourself and companions in-synch with local time, having good rest at night and perhaps a gentle lift in the mornings and throughout the day.

To get yourself into the swing of local time, relax and be ready for bed with equal parts of Lavender and Geranium essential oils – Chamomile may also be used in place of the Geranium, and works especially well for soothing children (if they are irritable for ANY reason).

Add a few drops to a bath or use in a massage oil. For a morning eye-opener, do the same using equal amounts of Peppermint and Eucalyptus. You will find these useful at other times when you need a little clarity and lightening-up.

Lemon Oil – the Purifier

Lemon also has some wonderfully diverse uses. It is effective as an antibacterial, but not so strong as to be an irritant. Adding several drops per quart to your drinking water will help purify it, and the water can act as a disinfectant to be used in washing your fruits and vegetables ‘ the need for this certainly depends on your location, but it not a bad idea whenever bacterial contamination may be a possibility.

Further, regularly drinking water with added lemon oil can gently stimulate the lymphatic and digestive systems, helping alleviate that sluggish feeling that often accompanies extended plane and car travel.

Eucalyptus Oil – For Keeping Cool and Cold Relief

Eucalyptus – the Narrow Leaf variety is a favorite – has a great range of uses as well. It can cool the body when too hot, and protect it when too cold. It is found in almost all formulas used to relieve congestion, can support circulation, and bring lightness to a travel-weary head.

Eucalyptus oil can be used like peppermint to uplift and invigorate during long intervals in an automobile. It can be added to a cool bath or used on a cold compress in cases of heat exhaustion and heat stroke (accompanied by, of course, copious amounts of water and electrolytes!), and used in a similar manner to reduce fever.

Eucalyptus oil may be blended with Geranium as a massage oil (3 drops Eucalyptus and 2 drops Geranium per teaspoon of carrier oil) to relieve heat cramps. For congestion relief, to a drawn bath, add 1 drop Eucalyptus, 3 drops Lemon, 2 drops Thyme, and 2 drops Tea Tree – soak and breathe deeply – or simply add a few drops to a steaming bowl of water and inhale.

These are just a few examples of ways to make your travel experiences more enjoyable with aromatherapy. With a little effort, you can expand your knowledge of these oils, discovering further uses, and find other oils that work well for your particular needs.

These essential oils are readily available, and fairly inexpensive – though caution should be used when buying oils, as some can be adulterated, and others are mass-produced with techniques that may limit their therapeutic benefits. The more pleasant and ‘well rounded’ an oil’s aroma, generally the higher the quality. Your nose will know! And as with any aromatherapy application, start slowly – essential oils deserve a healthy respect.

You can regard the body as being water, thickened with protein, which prevents us from “running away”. This gelatinous mass is then hung on a skeleton made up of minerals. Not a very flattering analogue. But it does put things in perspective.

Water performs many functions.

A few of the more important ones follow:

1. Most reactions in our bodies (of which there are millions every second) will not take place unless the reactants are dissolved. For example, the water component of our blood dissolves oxygen from our lungs and in this way it can be transported to our cells. Carbon Dioxide is removed in the same way.
2. Almost every cell in our body is bathed in interstitial fluid which is almost entirely water.
3. Most of the molecules in our body are suspended in water and are thus able to come into contact with other molecules. Indeed, water is often a part of these chemical reactions.
4. Water is a great stabiliser of body temperature. It absorbs and releases heat very slowly.
5. We have seen that the digestive tract utilises some 2 gallons of water per day. Much of this is reabsorbed, however, a certain amount needs to be replenished daily.
6. Water also acts as a lubricating medium. It is the major part of mucous and other lubricating fluids. Lubrication is especially necessary in the chest and abdomen, where internal organs touch and slide over each other.
7. Finally, water is the flushing medium which is used to clean the kidneys. These vital organs filter our entire volume of blood about every five minutes! Sufficient clean water must be passing through the kidneys to collect the wastes from this process. If these toxins are not removed, they will remain in the tissues.

How Much Water Do We Need?

Now let’s look at some of the practical aspects of using water for healing. Please be very clear that following appropriate dietary modification, the next most important step in nutritional improvement is to provide the body with sufficient clean water.

Most human bodies require 6 to 8 small glasses of pure water every day if they are to function efficiently. Part of this can be made up from the water contained in freshly squeezed fruit or vegetable juices but not from other drinks like tea or coffee.

Water, or any drink for that matter, should not be taken with meals. Ideally, small amounts of water should be taken hourly. This keeps clean water passing through the kidneys so that they can flush poisons from our bodies. There is little point in drinking more than half a glass half hourly as this excess will just pass out as clear urine and will not be used to flush. Tap Water and Salts Tap water is not suitable for human consumption. It is heavily laden with inorganic salts, additives and toxic chemicals and is a slow poison.

How many times have you heard someone say, “I don’t like water so I never drink it”? The majority of people are highly intolerant to the toxins and salts in tap water and unconsciously avoid drinking it. However their bodies are still dependent on some fluids for survival, so they have soft drinks, tea or coffee to disguise the flavour of water. It is literally the only way they can get it down.

One risk from drinking tap water is its high mineral content, particularly mineral salts. A concentration of salts in our tissues favours fluid retention and so we retain too much fluid in our bodies. Similarly, salts “preserve” our insides just as effectively as they preserve salted meats and fish. This causes hardening and inelasticity of our arteries.

Both fluid retention and hardening of the arteries are major contributing factors of hypertension (high blood pressure) and heart disease. Salts collect in our tissues from the tap water that we drink and from other dietary sources. As well as this, we are not drinking enough water (of any sort) to help flush them away. The problem of salt build up is easily rectified by drinking distilled water only for a period of time. This will draw salts out of the tissues. Later, one should switch to filtered water.

Other Pollutants in Water

Many other chemicals are added to our tap water before we drink it. At the very least this will include fluoride. Most drinking water comes from three sources. Surface dam water – to which is added chlorine and fluorine.

Deep artesian water – which is added to the dam water.
Ground water – which is heavily saturated with suspended matter and dissolved acids (which give it the brown colour). To clear this water, aluminium sulphate (alum) is added as a coagulant and then chemical polyelectrolytes are added to further settle the coagulated wastes. This water is then passed through sand filters to remove the settled particles. Some of the chemicals remain in the water.

This water is then added to the scheme water. So we have the situation where our water is heavily saturated with inappropriate mineral salts and a large amount of added chemicals. Other pollutants also seep in.

It is now established that there is no water supply in the U.S.A. which is not contaminated with the toxic residue from dry cleaning fluid. Some ground pollutants must also reach our water. This is a fairly dismal picture but the fact is that things are not getting better. They are getting worse. It is clear that we are slowly poisoning our planet, and one of the first places that this shows up is in our drinking water.

So, What Water is Best?

There are about five main sources of water that you can drink. The first is Tap water and we have seen why that is not a choice. The second is bottled mineral water, which can be quite high in mineral salts. It is however reasonably pure and is quite acceptable to drink socially. The other three choices bear more detailed analysis.

Distilled Water

This is produced by boiling water and condensing the steam. This water is very pure. It also carries a Negative polarity as a result of the distilling process. This polarity is aggressively attracted to trace minerals and other elements that make up what we could call whole water. Because of its purity, it is also highly absorbent of salts and other minerals. Distilled water is therefore very effective at leaching excessive minerals and salts from the body.

It is also very sweet and pure tasting. Because of its ability to remove minerals, it must only be used exclusively for short periods of up to 6 months. Longer than this and it can begin to leach essential minerals from the body. Distilled water, taken as 6 to 8 small glasses not more than 1 every half hour, is therefore indicated in any Therapeutic dietary approach to disease for short periods of time.

It is spectacularly effective as an adjunct to the treatment of hypertension and arthritis. Please note that de-ionised water from the supermarket is created using a different treatment. A little won’t hurt but it is not the same as pure distilled water.

Tank Water

Tank water is probably the ideal water to drink but there are some factors which must be considered. The roofs of houses in the metro area are constantly collecting heavy metals like lead from car exhausts and other airborne pollutants. Roofs and gutters are not always clean. Nor are the collection tanks. Roofs in rural areas may be even more suspect especially if there is crop dusting or aerial or spray pesticides being used. Always consider these factors and the source of tank water before using it.

Filtered Water

It is quite an indictment on our modern society but all things considered, filtered water is probably the best choice. There are a number of types of filters available. These include simple carbon filters. Also more sophisticated carbon filters with silver mesh components which destroy bacteria.

Then there are the more expensive reverse osmosis filters which produce very clean water, whilst still retaining a certain amount of the precious trace minerals. All filters retain trace minerals but their individual effectiveness at removing pollutants is proportional to their cost.

In summary, tap water should never be drunk or used for cooking or making beverages. With a few exceptions, we should all drink 6 to 8 small glasses of clean water throughout the day. A lesser quantity would be acceptable if some fresh juices are included in the diet. Therapeutically, distilled water is the first choice, then moving on to filtered water or clean rain water.

Most people will notice a considerable improvement in their health when they begin to take the right amount of clean water each day.

Have you ever seen an image portrayal of the forbidden fruit in the Garden of Eden that didn’t use an apple as the fruit? I’m sure there are some, but they are the minority. And, lest we forget, there’s the BIG Apple of New York City.

So, since so many are apparently fascinated with apples, and personally I’m pretty fascinated with good nutrition and natural health, I thought we could take a good look at the good ol’ apple.

Medicinal and Health Benefits of the Apple:

• The chief dietetic value of apples lies in the malic and tartaric acids. These acids are of signal benefit to persons of sedentary habits, who are liable to liver derangements, and they neutralize the acid products of gout and indigestion. ‘An apple a day keeps the doctor away’ is a respectable old rhyme that has some reason in it.
• The acids of the Apple not only make the fruit itself digestible, but even make it helpful in digesting other foods. Popular instinct long ago led to the association of apple sauce with such rich foods as pork and goose, and the old English fancy for eating apple pie with cheese, an obsolete taste, nowadays, is another example of instinctive inclination, which science has approved.
• The sugar of a sweet apple, like most fruit sugars, is practically a predigested food, and is soon ready to pass into the blood to provide energy and warmth for the body.
• A ripe raw apple is one of the easiest vegetable substances for the stomach to deal with, the whole process of its digestion being completed in eighty-five minutes.
• The juice of apples, without sugar, will often reduce acidity of the stomach; it becomes changed into alkaline carbonates, and thus corrects sour fermentation.
• It is stated on medical authority that in countries where unsweetened cider is used as a common beverage, stone or calculus is unknown, and a series of inquiries made of doctors in Normandy, where cider is the principal drink, brought to light the fact that not a single case of stone had been met with during forty years.
• Ripe, juicy apples eaten at bedtime every night will cure some of the worst forms of constipation. Sour apples are the best for this purpose. Some cases of sleeplessness have been cured in this manner. People much inclined to biliousness will find this practice very valuable. In some cases stewed apples will agree perfectly well, while raw ones prove disagreeable. There is a very old saying: ‘To eat an apple going to be, Will make the doctor beg his bread.’
• The Apple will also act as an excellent dentifrice, being a food that is not only cleansing to the teeth on account of its juices, but just hard enough to mechanically push back the gums so that the borders are cleared of deposits.
• Rotten apples used as a poultice is an old Lincolnshire remedy for sore eyes, that is still in use in some villages.
• It is no exaggeration to say that the habitual use of apples will do much to prolong life and to ameliorate its conditions. In the Edda, the old Scandinavian saga, Iduna kept in a box, apples that she gave to the gods to eat, thereby to renew their youth.
• A French physician has found that the bacillus of typhoid fever cannot live long in apple juice, and therefore recommends doubtful drinking water to be mixed with cider.
• A glucoside in small crystals is obtainable from the bark and root of the apple, peach and plum, which is said to induce artificial diabetes in animals, and thus can be used in curing it in human beings.
• The original pomatum seems to date from Gerard’s days, when an ointment for roughness of the skin was made from apple pulp, swine’s grease, and rosewater.
• The astringent verjuice, rich in tannin, of the Crab, is helpful in chronic diarrhoea.
• The bark may be used in decoction for intermittent and bilious fevers.
• Cider in which horse-radish has been steeped has been found helpful in dropsy.
• Cooked apples make a good local application for sore throat in fevers, inflammation of the eyes, erysipelas, etc.
• Stewed apples are laxative; raw ones not invariably so
• Apples contain flavonoids, antioxidants that improve immune function and prevent heart disease and some cancers.
• Green apples act as a liver and gall bladder cleanser and may aid in softening gallstones.
• Because of their high water content, apples are cooling and moistening and aid in reducing fever. Simply grate them and serve them to feverish patients. Steamed apples sweetened with honey are beneficial for a dry cough and may help to remove mucous from the lungs.
• Hippocrates (circa 400 BCE), the Greek physician considered the father of medicine, was a proponent of nutritional healing. His favorite remedies were apples, dates, and barley mush.
• Modern medical practitioners are beginning to recognize that the apple’s abundant quantity of pectin is an aid in reducing high cholesterol as well as blood sugar, a wonder food for people with coronary artery disease and diabetes.

Apple Nutrition Facts:

(*One medium 2-1/2 inch apple, fresh, raw, with skin)

*The nutritional value of apples will vary slightly depending on the variety and size.

Five Reasons to Eat an Apple a Day:

• Your Diet – Apples are the perfect, portable snack: great tasting, energy-boosting, and free of fat.

• Your Heart – Research confirms it! The antioxidant phytonutrients found in apples help fight the damaging effects of LDL (bad) cholesterol.

• Your Digestion – Just one apple provides as much dietary fiber as a serving of bran cereal. (That’s about one-fifth of the recommended daily intake of fiber.)

• Your Lungs – An apple a day strengthens lung function and can lower the incidence of lung cancer, as well.

• Your Bones – Apples contain the essential trace element, boron, which has been shown to strengthen bones – a good defense agianst osteoporosis.

The History of the Apple:

There have been those who have been very aware of the apple’s relationship to the history of our world. Author-naturalist Henry David Thoreau wrote, “It is remarkable how closely the history of the apple tree is connected with that of man.”

As we take a look at the history of the apple, we should recognize and pay tribute to the role of the inventive horticulturists of the Roman era. If not for them, our brown bag lunches of today may be missing something – an apple. There also would not be (gasp) apple pie, apple cider, apple fritters, apple juice, apple butter, or caramel apple dip (one of my favorites!). Of course, we may still have caramel pear dip or soemthing of the sort, but you get my drift. Simply said, we would be living without sweet, juicy apples in our diet.

The wild apple of ancient Asia, malus pumila var mitris, would never have been chosen to be a part of our modern diet it in its uncultivated form. These ancient wild apple trees produced hundreds of tiny fruits which consisted mainly of small, dark brown seeds and core – and they were sour to boot. Hardly something I would choose to make a pie out of! The wild apple of Europe, the main ancestor of the domestic apple, is classified as malus sylvestris.

Though some historians do not agree about who first cultivated the wild apple, many maintain that it was the Romans who discovered that these little, sour wild apples could be cultivated into sweet and juicy fruits. Other historians report the apple’s origins were rooted in Southwestern Asia, just south of the Caucasus Mountains between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. And still others note that apple seeds found in Anatolia were carbon dated 6500 BCE. Archeologists even found a fossilized imprint of an apple seed from the Neolithic period in England.

With the apple’s exact origin still hypothetical, another unanswered question arises. Did Eve really bite into an apple that she plucked off the forbidden tree of knowledge of good and evil in the Garden of Eden? No name is given to the fruit that she and Adam tasted that fateful day although apples are mentioned later in the Bible. Some historians believe the forbidden fruit could have been a pomegranate or even a quince.

In the 13th century BCE, Ramses II ordered cultivated varieties of apples planted in the Nile delta. In Attica, Greece, apples were being grown in a very limited quantity during the 7th century BCE. Since they were so costly, it was decreed that a bridal couple would have to share one apple on their wedding night.

Twenty-two varieties were mentioned by Pliny the Elder, Circa 23 CE:  there are now about 2,000 kinds cultivated. In the Old Saxon manuscripts there are numerous mentions of apples and cider. Bartholomeus Anglicus, whose Encyclopedia was one of the earliest printed books containing botanical information (being printed at Cologne about 1470), gives a chapter on the Apple.

When the early explorers returned from their travels and introduced new fruits and vegetables into Europe, the Europeans often didn’t know what to call them. To them, the name “apple” symbolized all fruits and was at one time bestowed upon melons, avocados, cashews, cherimoyas, dates, eggplants, lemons, oranges, peaches, pineapples, pine nuts, pomegranates, potatoes, quinces, and tomatoes. Poet Robert Frost found this rather amusing and penned this poem:

The rose is a rose,
And was always a rose.
But the theory now goes
That the apple’s a rose.

In Shakespeare’s time, apples when served at dessert were usually accompanied by caraway, as we may read in Henry IV, where Shallow invites Falstaff to ‘a pippin and a dish of caraway,’ In a still earlier Booke of Nurture, it is directed ‘After mete pepyns, caraway in comfyts.’ The custom of serving roast apples with a little saucerful of Carraways is still kept up at Trinity College, Cambridge, and at some of the old-fashioned London Livery dinners, just as in Shakespeare’s days.

The taste for apples is one of the earliest and most natural of inclinations; all children love apples, cooked or uncooked. Apple pies, apple puddings, apple dumplings are fare acceptable in all ages and all conditions.

Interesting Apple Facts:

• The crabapple is the only apple native to North America.
• Apples come in all shades of reds, greens, and yellows.
• Two pounds of apples make one 9-inch pie.
• Apple blossom is the state flower of Michigan.
• 2,500 varieties of apples are grown in the United States.
• 7,500 varieties of apples are grown throughout the world.
• 100 varieties of apples are grown commercially in the United States.
• Apples are grown commercially in 36 states.
• Apples are grown in all 50 states.
• Apples are fat, sodium, and cholesterol free.
• A medium apple is about 80 calories.
• Apples are a great source of the fiber pectin. One apple has five grams of fiber.
• The pilgrims planted the first United States apple trees in the Massachusetts Bay Colony.
• The science of apple growing is called pomology.
• Apple trees take four to five years to produce their first fruit.
• Most apples are still picked by hand in the fall.
• Apple varieties range in size from a little larger than a cherry to as large as a grapefruit.
• Apples are propagated by two methods: grafting or budding.
• The apple tree originated in an area between the Caspian and the Black Sea.
• Apples were the favorite fruit of ancient Greeks and Romans.
• Apples are a member of the rose family.
• Apples harvested from an average tree can fill 20 boxes that weigh 42 pounds each.
• The largest apple picked weighed three pounds.
• Europeans eat about 46 pounds of apples annually.
• The average size of a United States orchard is 50 acres.
• Many growers use dwarf apple trees.
• Charred apples have been found in prehistoric dwellings in Switzerland.
• Most apple blossoms are pink when they open but gradually fade to white.
• Some apple trees will grow over 40 feet high and live over 100 years.
• Most apples can be grown farther north than most other fruits, because they blossom late in spring, minimizing frost damage.
• It takes the energy from 50 leaves to produce one apple.
• Apples are the second most valuable fruit grown in the United States. Oranges are first.
• In colonial time, apples were called winter banana or melt-in-the-mouth.
• The largest U. S. apple crop was 277.3 million cartons in 1998.
• Apples have five seed pockets or carpels. Each pocket contains seeds. The number of seeds per carpel is determined by the vigor and health of the plant. Different varieties of apples will have different number of seeds.
• World’s top apple producers are China, United States, Turkey, Poland and Italy.
• The Lady or Api apple is one of the oldest varieties in existence.
• Newton Pippin apples were the first apples exported from America in 1768, some were sent to Benjamin Franklin in London.
• In 1730, the first apple nursery was opened in Flushing, New York.
• One of George Washington’s hobbies was pruning his apple trees.
• America’s longest-lived apple tree was reportedly planted in 1647 by Peter Stuyvesant in his Manhattan orchard and was still bearing fruit when a derailed train struck it in 1866.
• Apples ripen six to ten times faster at room temperature than if they were refrigerated.
• A peck of apples weight 10.5 pounds.
• A bushel of apples weights about 42 pounds and will yield 20-24 quarts of applesauce.
• Archeologists have found evidence that humans have been enjoying apples since at least 6500 B.C.
• The world’s largest apple peel was created by Kathy Wafler Madison on October 16, 1976, in Rochester, NY. It was 172 feet, 4 inches long. (She was 16 years old at the time and grew up to be a sales manager for an apple tree nursery.)
• It takes about 36 apples to create one gallon of apple cider.
• Apples account for 50 percent of the world’s deciduous fruit tree production.
• The old saying, “An apple a day, keeps the doctor away.” This saying comes from an old English adage, “To eat an apple before going to bed, will make the doctor beg his bread.”
• Don’t peel your apple. Two-thirds of the fiber and lots of antioxidants are found in the peel. Antioxidants help to reduce damage to cells, which can trigger some diseases.
• In 2005, United States consumers ate an average of 46.1 pounds of fresh apples and processed apple products. That’s a lot of applesauce!
• Sixty-three percent of the 2005 U.S. apple crop was eaten as fresh fruit.
• In 2005, 36 percent of apples were processed into apple products; 18.6 percent of this is for juice and cider, two percent was dried, 2.5 percent was frozen, 12.2 percent was canned and 0.7 percent was fresh slices. Other uses were the making of baby food, apple butter or jelly and vinegar.
• The top apple producing states are Washington, New York, Michigan,Pennsylvania, California and Virginia.
• In 2006, 58% of apples produced in the United States were produced in Washington, 11% in New York, 8% in Michigan, 5% in Pennsylvania, 4% in California and 2% in Virginia.
• In 2005, there were 7,500 apple growers with orchards covering 379,000 acres.
• In 1998-90 the U.S. per capita fresh apple consumption was around 21 pounds.
• In 2005, the average United States consumer ate an estimated 16.9 pounds of fresh market apples
• Total apple production in the United States in 2005 was 234.9 million cartons valued at $1.9 billion.
• In 2006/2007 the People’s Republic of China led the world in commercial apple production with 24,480,000 metric tons followed by the United States with 4,460,544 metric tons.
• In 2006/2007 commercial world production of apples was at 44,119,244 metric tons.
• Almost one out of every four apples harvested in the United States is exported.
• 35.7 million bushels of fresh market apples in 2005 were exported. That was 24 percent of the total U.S. fresh-market crop.
• The apple variety ‘Red Delicious’ is the most widely grown in the United States with 62 million bushels harvested in 2005.
• Many apples after harvesting and cleaning have commercial grade wax applied. Waxes are made from natural ingredients.
• National Apple Month is the only national, generic apple promotion conducted in the United States. Originally founded in 1904 as National Apple Week, it was expanded in 1996 to a three-month promotional window from September through November.
• On August 21, 2007 the GoldRush apple was designated as the official Illinois’state fruit. GoldRush is a sweet-tart yellow apple with a long shelf life. The apple is also the state fruit of Minnesota, New York, Vermont, Washington and West Virginia.

References:

http://www.vegparadise.com
http://urbanext.illinois.edu/
http://www.botanical.com/
http://www.virginiaapples.org/
http://www.nancyskitchen.com/

1. Get healthy skin. Drinking water moisturizes your skin from the inside out. Water is essential to maintaining elasticity and suppleness and helps prevent dryness.

2. Lose weight. Increased water consumption can help you control weight by preventing you from confusing hunger with thirst. Water will also keep your body systems, including metabolism and digestion, working properly and give you the energy (and hydration) necessary for exercise.

3. Flush toxins. By helping to flush toxins, appropriate water intake
lessens the burden on your kidneys and liver.

4. Reduce your risk of a heart attack. Researchers at Loma Linda University in California studied more than 20,000 healthy men and women and found that people who drink more than five glasses of water a day were less likely to die from a heart attack or heart disease than those who drank fewer than two glasses a day.

5. Cushion and lube your joints and muscles. Water makes up a large part of the fluid that lubricates and cushions your joints and muscles. Drinking water before, during, and after exercise can also help reduce muscle cramping and premature fatigue.

6. Stay regular. Water helps prevent constipation by adding fluid to the colon and bulk to stools, making bowel movements softer and easier to pass.

7. Stay hydrated, get energized, and be alert. On average, most adults lose about 10 cups of fluid a day through sweating, exhaling, urinating, and bowel movements. Even minor dehydration can cause impaired concentration, headaches, irritability, and fatigue.

8. Regulate your body temperature. Perspiration is your body’s natural mechanism to control body temperature. And to sweat, you need plenty of water.

9. Reduce your risk of disease and infection. Water can help prevent kidney stones and reduce your chances of getting bladder, kidney, and urinary tract infections. One study found that women who drank more than five glasses of water a day had a risk of colon cancer that was 45 percent less than those who drank two or fewer glasses a day.

10. Get well. The traditional prescription to “drink plenty of fluids” when you’re sick still holds strong. Water can help control a fever, replace lost fluids, and thin out mucus.

Sources: www.WebMD.com, www.mayoclinic. com, www.water.com

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.

What is high blood pressure?

The blood is pumped through your body by your heart. Smooth arterial walls allow the blood to move freely through a network of arteries, veins, capillaries and smaller vessels. When certain health risks such as high cholesterol and obesity force the blood to be pumped harder, this can damage artery walls.

The heart has to work harder to pump the same volume of blood through narrower spaces. Openings in blood vessels that contain cholesterol plaques not only inhibit the flow of blood but also threaten to turn those plaques into embolisms that can lodge in the heart, lungs or brain, leading to heart attack or stroke.

Blood pressure is a written as a fraction. It is a measure of the pressure exerted on the arterial walls as the heart contracts over the pressure exerted when the heart is as rest. The average number is 120/70. Anything higher than 140 for the systolic (top number) and 90 for the diastolic (lower number) is considered high blood pressure range.

What can you do to lower it?

There are many factors that contribute to a high blood pressure number. One of those factors is weight. Having a weight that puts you in the overweight and obese categories on the BMI chart can lead to high blood pressure. Fat has poor vascularity and the heart must pump harder to infuse it with blood.

But, there is hope. You can help lower your blood pressure in a number of ways:

* Diet – You are what you eat. Avoiding foods that are high in saturated fats and sodium will help reduce the incidence of high serum cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol are oxidized in the blood forming, hard plaques on the surface of artery walls. These plaques are sticky and can trap platelets as well until clots form that force more pressure on the walls to pass the blood.

Instead, try fresh vegetables and fruits. If you must use canned, opt of the “no salt added” variety. Fresh foods have fewer if any preservatives.

* Drink water – Drinking water is like giving your body an internal shower. It is needed by all of the cells and can dilute the sodium in your diet.

* Eat whole grains – Fiber helps to lower cholesterol levels. These carbohydrates take longer to digest, stabilizing your blood sugar throughout the day.

* Exercise – Daily activity lowers your blood pressure and increases blood flow to the brain. As you lose weight, your risk factors for high blood pressure may begin to disappear.

Are you experiencing high blood pressure issues? Consult your doctor. There may be ways to lower it naturally before any medication is needed.

Yeah. Do you think I’m a horse?

That’s what I have been telling myself until I sit down and do the math:

How the expert comes up with the magic number 8

On average, we get around 3.5 cups of water from various foods, and 0.5 cup as a byproduct from our body’s own metabolism (water is produced when energy is released). At the same time, 2 cups of water is lost through lungs (breathing), 6 cups through intestines and kidney (poo and wee), 2 cups from sweating in inactive activities (like sitting and sleeping), and 2 extra cups from sweating under hot weather or exercise. As you can see we’ll need to drink 8 cups of water to fill that hole.

Just to scare you further, here are a few fun facts on drinking water:

* 75% of the earth is covered with water, of which only 3% is fresh water. Among the 3%, 2% is frozen in polar ice caps (yes, it’s fresh water), thus only 1% of water available on earth is drinkable.Take it while you can!
* We are virtually made of water — A human body is 70% water, similar to an avocado (73%), banana (75%) and a living tree (75%). Strawberry is 91% water.
* While we can normally survive without food for more than a month, we can’t live without water for more than a week.
* Drinks containing concentrated nutrients, such as milk, sugar-sweetened soft drinks, and salty tomato-based juices, count more as food than drink since they themselves increase your body’s water needs.

Composition of water

For tap water, it’s 99.89% water, 0.1% ash (whatever that is), 0.002% (5mg) calcium, 0.002% (5mg) sodium, and 0.001% (2mg) magnesium. We are talking about tap water in the US here. I’m quite sure you’ll get a lot more interesting stuff in tap water from, say, Nepal?

How much is 5mg of Calcium by the way? It equals to the amount of calcium a banana gives you, but banana is quite thrifty on this among fruits. Orange, for example, gives you 10 times of that.

How about bottled water? Interestingly, it does have more Calcium (24mg), and Perrier has even more (32mg). This is already double the amount of Calcium in an average fruit.

On the other hand, if you think the “mineral” water can give you all buzzed up with the good stuff… please note that the bottled water will give you a little bit more Magnesium and Sodium than tap water, and nothing else. And Perrier? Zippo! except the calcium.

My conclusion is to dash into the kitchen and make myself the following:

A glass of really nice water

Time preparation: 5 minutes Serving: 1

Ingredients:

* 1 glass of water
* 1/2 lime

Directions:

1. Walk slowly into the kitchen. Smell the flowers. Think of the poor children in Africa who’ve never had a drop of clean water.
2. Get the freshest lime from the fridge while making sure the water heater is on.
3. Have your favorite glass ready, besides the window. Take a rest, look out of the window and enjoy the scenery.
4. When the water is boiled and cooled, pour it into the glass. Better yet, pour into a simple water filter and then pour it into the glass. See how the water sparkles under the sunlight!
5. Slice the lime; drop a few pieces in the glass and count the cute little bubbles coming out from the slices. Cut another thin slice from the lime, twist and make a pretty garnish.
6. Get a book or magazine and dive yourself into the most comfortable sofa. Drink. Enjoy life.

About the author

Stephanie writes a light-hearted daily blog on healthy, delicious and family-friendly beverages, together with nutritional value and fun facts on foods. Know more about what you eat (or should eat) at http://www.yourdailydrink.com

Teeth cleaning at home is a superficial procedure that cleans the tooth but doesnt get rid of infection or diseased gum tissue. However superficial, it is important to the daily care and treatment of your teeth. Researchers have found that gum disease is linked conclusively to heart disease and strokes. You can contribute to the prevention of these conditions, and therefore improve the quality of your life, using several simple techniques.

When you do your teeth cleaning at home you will use floss, mouthwash, toothbrush and toothpaste. This process doesnt involve polishing or whitening those are cosmetic procedures that dont contribute to healthier gums, just whiter smiles.

To begin you must floss your teeth at least five days each week. The best time to floss is in the evening because it removes food particles from between your teeth that contribute to plaque as they sit in your closed mouth for 8 hours, percolating, while you sleep.

Flossing your teeth, as part of a teeth cleaning at home program, is a quick procedure. People often complain that the process takes too long, or they dont have the time each night. But, flossing really only takes about 2 minutes once you have learned the procedure and performed it. Like anything else the more you do it, the better you become.

Flossing your teeth will also help to eliminate any difficulties you might have with bad breath. Dont believe me? Just smell that dental floss after youve flossed two or three teeth. That rotting food between your teeth contributes to bad breath every day.

Once you have flossed you should rinse with mouthwash. The mouthwash should NOT have alcohol in it. Most of the commercial based mouthwashes do however. And alcohol in the mouthwash contributes to dry mouth and bad breath. Chronic exposure to the alcohol in the mouthwash will also cause some damage to the tissue in the mouth.

Some dentists will tell you that mouthwash in a teeth cleaning at home program isnt necessary. Many people, though, find that rinsing before brushing decreases the time the dental hygienist spends cleaning their teeth every six months.

Once you have flossed and rinsed it is time to brush. Use a toothbrush that has a soft head so you dont damage the gum line or scratch the enamel of the teeth. Leave the hard bristled toothbrushes for cleaning around the sink in the bathroom. There is controversy about the use of fluoride in toothpaste, especially if you live in an area that places fluoride in the drinking water. The toothpaste is used to soften the plaque so the brush can sweep it away. If you can stand it, baking soda makes a great toothpaste. It just isnt as sweet tasting as the store bought brands.

Be sure that you rinse your mouth well after brushing. Brush your teeth in the morning after awakening to get rid of the bacteria that grew there when you werent eating and drinking. Then in the evening you can floss, rinse and brush. Many people find that brushing their teeth after lunch helps to curb their snacking in the afternoon.

A teeth cleaning at home program will help to eliminate cavities, give you a bright smile and decrease the time that the dental hygienist spends picking at the plaque on your teeth.

Our body’s detoxification system comprises of the digestive and urinary systems, skin, lungs and liver. It is a perfect system in which the organs supplement and complement each other. There is, however, a limit to how much it can be stretched.

What happens is this. The frontline defense of the intestines is broken due to the large quantities of toxins that enter our body. This intake can happen through food, exposure to the environment, drinking water and other points of contact. The breakdown of the function of the intestines leads to a condition where the liver needs to work more than its capacity.

Over time, if the level of toxins is not reduced, the toxins start to leak out of the intestinal walls into the blood stream. And a situation like this causes diseases like bowel toxaemia (blood poisoning caused by bacterial toxic substances in the blood) and candidiasis (an infection caused by fungi). These diseases are characterized by symptoms like diabetes, chronic constipation, vaginal thrush, loss of libido and increase in blood cholesterol.

Though you may find many quick remedies being advertised, the process of detox treatment needs a holistic approach. A detox product can of help only if it is taken as a supplementary treatment and as part of an overall detox program.

Some natural detox treatments include fasting. Fasting is a natural process for cleaning the colon of toxic substances and this has been used in different societies across the world. For people who cannot fast, a fruit juice diet can also help in cleansing the colon.

Herbal detox remedies include herbal tablets for liver cleansing. Organic diets in conjunctions with herbal treatments help in getting rid of the yeast that cause candidiasis.

A detox treatment is much more than just popping in a detox product. It is almost a lifestyle that you need to lead to rid your body of all the impurities that have been accumulating over the years. It is also pertinent that you continue the process of a detox diet even after you have cleansed your system once. This is essential since the yeast and toxins can reappear due to contact with the environment.

In context of natural detox remedies, implies a regulated diet that is organic in nature. Some of the precautions that are recommended for an effective detox treatment would include the following:

* Preservatives – Avoid foods that contain preservatives. A close look at the label can tell you if the food contains preservative or not.
* Sugar – Avoid sugar consumption. If you cannot avoid it totally, limit the consumption.
* Fresh is the best – Certain food items require to be kept at low temperatures. Such products are best bought directly from the store rather than home delivered.
* Pure water – Stick to filtered or bottled water.
* Keep your household free of chemical pollutants.
* Learn about organic foods and try to use them as much as possible.
* Exercise – It is one of the best detox remedies as it helps to burn toxins in the body.
* Dentistry – Choose a holistic dentist who will ensure that no mercury amalgam is used.

References:

www.thecompletedetox.com

Women experienced urinary incontinence over twice as often as men. Much of the difference can be accounted for by the structure of the female urinary tract, pregnancy, childbirth and menopause, all of which significantly impact the function of the urinary tract system. Both the men and women can become incontinent from other issues such as neurological injury, stroke, multiple sclerosis and other physical conditions that are associated with aging.

Incontinence happens because there are problems and issues with the muscles and nerves that control the release and the ability to hold urine. The body stores urine in the bladder which is an organ shaped much like a balloon. The bladder is connected to the urethra which is a tube through which urine leaves the body. The process of urination is a complex orchestration of nerve innervation and muscle control. The muscles in the wall of the bladder contracts which forced the urine out of the bladder at the same time that sphincter muscles relax.

There are actually several different types of urinary incontinence. The first of which is stress incontinence in which laughing, coughing and sneezing can put enough pressure on the bladder to allow leakage. This is the most common type of bladder control problems that women experience and in many cases it can be treated.

The most common causes for stress incontinence involves the stress or injury to the pelvic structures that support the bladder, such as childbirth. Many women find that stress incontinence will worsen during the week before her menstrual period when estrogen level of our lower that leads to lower muscular pressure around the urethra.

Another type of urinary incontinence is urge incontinence which is when the individual has a strong need to urinate but cannot reach the toilet in time. This happens to women even when the bladder is holding a small amount of urine. Some have no warning at all before they accidentally leak urine. This can happen when they are drinking water or when they hear running water.

Another cause of urinary incontinence is an overactive bladder. In this condition there are abnormal nerve signals sent to the bladder at the wrong time which causes the muscles to squeeze without warning. Not all individuals who have an overactive bladder also suffer from urinary incontinence. Men and women who suffer from an overactive bladder find that they have to go to the bathroom more than seven times each day. They often feel the sudden and strong urge to urinate immediately and can suffer from leakage often awakening at night in order to urinate.

Some individuals suffer from functional incontinence that results from a medical condition which interferes with thinking, moving or communication. For instance, a person who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease may not plan a trip to the bathroom in enough time or an individual in a wheelchair may have trouble getting to the bathroom in time.

Some individuals will suffer from a combination of reasons for incontinence and this can be referred to as mixed incontinence. Most women and men did not have one pure reason and some studies have shown that mixed incontinence is actually the most common type of urinary incontinence in women.

Men and women who suffer from urinary incontinence can experience a range of symptoms from an occasional leaking when coughing or sneezing to having the sudden urge to urinate and not being able to get to the toilet on time. Urinary incontinence will affect day-to-day activities and even now it may feel a bit embarrassing, you should not hesitate to see your primary care physician and discuss both diagnosis and treatment options. In most cases very simple lifestyle changes or medical treatments can make your daily activities much more functional and stop urinary incontinence.

Anyone who has every experienced a hangover before knows the feeling of just wanting it all to go away. Unfortunately, many individuals believe that there is no “cure,” for a hangover.

Although cure may not be the best word used to describe seeking treatment, there are a number of natural remedies which many claim do provide hangover relief. You are looking to relieve yourself from a hangover, please continue reading on as a few of these natural remedies, as well as tips for your next alcohol drinking outing are highlighted below.

Water is a natural remedy for hangovers. Before heading to sleep, after a night of drinking, drinking a lot of water can assist with your hangover the next morning. Alcohol, especially when consumed in large amounts, can impact a body’s hydration, which can result in unpleasant feelings the next morning. That is why a glass or two of water before bed is a great idea. The next morning, as soon as you wake, start drinking even more water. In addition to helping to treat a hangover, drinking water before you starting consuming alcohol also has a number of benefits.

Eating can also help with a hangover from too much alcohol consumption. Eating should be done before, during, and after alcohol consumption. Most importantly, it is important not to consume large amounts of alcohol on an empty stomach. This increase a drinker’s likelihood of becoming intoxicated or drunk, and it also increases the chances of a hangover the next morning. Eating before, during, or after alcohol consumption can slow down the rate in which alcohol is absorbed into the body and bloodstream.

As for vitamins, which many individuals turn to when looking for a natural remedy, vitamin C and B is recommended for hangover relief. It has been claimed that vitamin B helps to shorten the length of a hangover. As for vitamin C, it can help to breakdown the alcohol in your body, also assisting with a hangover, namely by preventing one, shortening its length, or reducing symptoms.

When it comes to a headache associated with a hangover, there are many individuals who take pain relievers. Of course, this approach will work for many, but it is not natural. If you are concerned with that you are putting in your body, you may be looking for a more natural way to relieve the headaches often associated with hangovers. A natural way to relieve a headache associated with a hangover is to place a cold pack on the head; however, a ziplock bag filled with ice will also do. Depending on the activities that you have planned for the day, consider getting extra rest, preferably with an ice pack on your head or neck.

An extra tip to help reduce the likelihood of a hangover involves limiting alcohol consumption. Many professionals recommend pacing yourself with one alcoholic drink an hour, as anything else increases the chances of a hangover. As previously stated, eating before, during, and after alcohol consumption can help with hangovers, as you aren’t drinking on an empty stomach. Eating, even just snacking, while drinking will reduce the amount of alcohol consumed, as you are doing something other than just drinking. Also, some mixed drinks, especially those that are tasty, fruity, or sugary, should be avoided, as it is hard for some drinkers to gauge the amount of alcohol they are actually consuming.

The above mentioned natural remedies are just a few of the many that you can use to relieve the symptoms of a hangover. Also, the tips mentioned above can also reduce your chances of having a hangover following the consumption of alcohol.

Many people struggle with excessive weight and sluggish metabolism all their lives finding that, as they age, they gradually gain more weight and become resigned to a large protruding abdomen and stubborn fat deposits. After years of dieting they believe that nothing can possibly lead to lasting relief. Something is obviously wrong, something is missing.

It took me more than 20 years of medical practice before the solution dawned on me! The liver, the supreme organ of metabolism, had to be the missing key. It seemed so simple yet so incredible; why hadn’t someone in medicine thought of this before?

Modern medicine has become side-tracked into treating the symptoms of disease and not the causes. Excessive weight is a symptom of liver dysfunction and not solely due to the number of calories you eat. Medicine has failed to treat the underlying cause of liver dysfunction and indeed has virtually ignored the hardest working organ in the body, with dire consequences.

My theory that the liver holds the key to weight control has been vindicated in all the 1540 patients I have treated since 1994 with my program to improve liver function. The success rate, as measured by the parameters of weight loss and general wellbeing, has been 100% in all the patients I have been able to monitor.

As a medical student I spent many hours with leading naturopathic doctors. I believed that they had much to teach me, and their patient waiting lists were always very long with cases that other doctors had not been able to help. I first learned of the tremendous importance of the liver. In all their patients, naturopathic doctors examined the state of the liver through iridology, acupuncture, pulse techniques and from the patient’s history. In the vast majority of cases a liver problem would be found, and correction of this was always a vital step in their healing program. They would treat the liver with dietary changes and specific liver herbs and, in more toxic cases, with fasting programs.

I came to understand that to restore good health one must always consider the state of the liver. However, my career led me into other areas of medicine, and the importance of considering the liver gradually slipped into my subconscious mind. Thankfully, one day I would remember to take a leaf out of the book of this old naturopathic wisdom.

I see many difficult cases where people have been chronically ill or obese for years, and they are all fascinated to learn how the liver holds the key to weight loss and balanced metabolism.

The liver is the major fat-burning organ in the body. If you follow the Liver-Cleaning Diet your metabolism will improve in leaps and bounds and you will start to burn fat. Conversely, if you eat the wrong foods, your liver will make more fat so that you keep on storing fat. To a large degree, it’s not how much you eat, it’s what you eat that is far more important. On the Liver-Cleansing Diet your liver will give a big sigh of relief and merrily get on with its job of regulating metabolism and burning fat. Then the process of weight loss begins naturally and without excessive effort on your part. You do not have to count calories or pedantically weigh every morsel of food, and even better, you never have to go hungry.

The Symptoms of an Unhappy Liver

Symptoms of mild liver dysfunction may occur even though all blood tests of liver function are “normal.” The tests that doctors use routinely to check the liver are not very sensitive – they check for liver damage rather than function.

Common symptoms due to poor liver function are:

Poor digestion, abdominal bloating, nausea especially after fatty foods, weight gain around the abdomen and constipation. Irritable bowel syndrome, associated with abdominal swelling and flatulence, is often due to a sluggish liver. If you wake up in the morning with bad breath and/or a coated tongue, your liver definitely needs help.

Unpleasant mood changes, depression, “foggy brain” and impaired concentration and memory. If the liver is sluggish, excessive amounts of toxic metabolites find their way into the blood stream and can affect the function of the brain.

Allergic conditions such as hay fever, hives, skin rashes and asthma.

Headaches. Unfortunately, pain killers can cause further stress on the liver as the liver is the organ that breaks down all drugs.

High blood pressure and/or fluid retention. These may be difficult to control with drug therapy. I have seen the Liver-Cleansing Diet bring down very high blood pressure to completely normal levels without any drugs being required.

Hypoglycemia or unstable blood sugar levels. An unhappy liver can cause wild fluctuations of blood sugar level with very low glucose levels causing fatigue, dizziness, light-headedness and cravings for sugar.

Inability to tolerate fatty foods, gallbladder disease and gallstones. If you feed your liver too much saturated or damaged (rancid) fat, it will try to pump it out of your body through the bile which flows into the gallbladder and then the small intestine. This will raise the cholesterol content of your bile and can result in gallstones (made of hard cholesterol) and gallbladder inflammation. If your liver is not working efficiently, it will not manufacture enough bile salts to keep biliary cholesterol in solution and so gallbladder stones may result.

Fatigue and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome. When tired people cannot find a cause for their ill-health, in 99% of such cases I find that they are eating too much saturated and damaged fats and not enough raw vegetables and fruits.

Excessive body heat, which may be associated with sweating or body odor.

Lowered tolerance to alcohol and various drugs such as antibiotics.

The Twelve Vital Principles to Improve Your Liver Function

ONE – Listen to your body. Don’t eat if you’re not hungry. Have a raw juice, a piece of fruit, a small raw vegetable salad or a glass of water instead. Conversely, don’t put up with hunger pains.

Far too many people place their mealtimes around the clock and will eat at, say, 8:00 am, 1:00 pm and 7:00 pm, come hail or shine, appetite or not. It’s much healthier to place your mealtimes around your hunger and pay little heed to the clock. If you are in the habit of eating regular meals when you are not hungry, your liver will be working far too hard and will basically suffer with excessive wear and tear.

TWO – Drink 8-12 glasses of filtered water daily as this helps to cleanse the liver and kidneys and aids with weight loss. Your body requires small and frequent sips of water otherwise your cells shrink with dehydration and their membranes dry out. There is a higher risk of Alzheimer’s Disease in people who do not drink water.

Avoid large amounts of fluid with meals.

THREE – Avoid eating large amounts of sugar, especially refined sugar, as the liver will convert this into fat and cholesterol. The fat can cause fatty degeneration of organs or will be transported to fatty areas such as the thighs, buttocks and abdomen for storage. Eventually the blood triglycerides become too high and this is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

Avoid all artificial sweeteners as these are toxic to the liver and cause hypoglycemia and fatigue. If you must have something sweet, have fresh raw fruits, sun-dried fruits, honey or blackstrap molasses.

FOUR — Don’t become obsessed with measuring calories. If you stick to the foods and meal plans in the LCD, your liver will gradually improve and weight loss will follow accordingly. Far more people die from overeating than from undereating, so err on the side of eating less once hunger is satisfied.

Ignore the bathroom scales as the aim is to cleanse your body and rejuvenate your entire metabolism, not merely to lose weight. Weight loss will occur hand-in-hand with the improvement in liver functioning. Why stress yourself by noticing how quickly or slowly weight loss occurs?

FIVE – Avoid foods that you may be allergic to or that you know from past experience upset you.

Always chew your food slowly and thoroughly, as digestion begins with saliva being mixed with food in the mouth.

As people age, the production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach often becomes inadequate for efficient digestion of proteins. This can be overcome by sipping a small glass of water containing one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar during every meal (containing protein foods).

SIX – Be aware of good intestinal hygiene as the liver must filter out and destroy any bacteria and viruses present in our food. Too many unfriendly organisms, such as salmonella or shigella bacteria, may make us seriously ill and also permanently damage the liver. To reduce this risk, only eat foods that are fresh, and avoid the regular reheating of food as bacteria breed in stored cooked foods, especially meats. Never reheat food more than once. And always wash your hands before eating.

Many packaged and processed foods are laden with preservatives, yet they are still full of unfriendly organisms in a dormant state. As soon as this food hits your intestines, the preservatives wear off and the bugs begin to grow inside you. Especially avoid preserved meats.

SEVEN – Do not eat if you feel stressed or anxious because during these states your blood flow is diverted away from the intestines and liver to other areas of the body.

EIGHT – Check if organically-grown fresh produce, free of pesticides, is available in your area. If using eggs and chickens, always buy free-range. Buy products containing natural ingredients and avoid processed foods containing artificial chemicals such as preservatives, colorings, flavorings and artificial sweeteners.

NINE – Obtain your protein from diverse sources, including legumes. The Liver Cleansing Diet does contain some chicken (preferably free-range), fish and eggs. However, there are many meals in which protein is obtained from legumes, grains, cereals, nuts and seeds. First-class protein from combinations of these sources is just as complete as protein from animal sources and contains all of the eight essential amino acids.

Legumes or “pulses” are beans (such as soya beans, kidney beans, etc.), peas, chickpeas and lentils and they provide valuable protein, essential fatty acids, fibre, plant hormones, minerals and B vitamins. If you are too busy to cook beans, it is acceptable to use canned legumes and there are many to choose from. If the canned beans contain lots of salt and sugar, rinse with water before using them.

Seeds – linseed, sunflower, sesame and pumpkin seeds – are excellent sources of essential fatty acids, protein, plant hormones and fibre.

Nuts are very rich in unsaturated oils and should only be eaten fresh and raw. If they have been shelled for a long time and exposed to air, their oils will have become rancid. Buy nuts in sealed bags showing a use-by date, or buy nuts still in their shells.

TEN – Choose your breads and spreads wisely. It is important to eat only good quality breads on the Liver-Cleansing Diet. Go to a health food store and buy breads free of artificial chemicals. If you have irritable bowel syndrome, use stone-ground breads which have a fine texture and are free of little grainy bits. Vary the types of breads you eat to reduce allergies – try rye, wheat, corn, oats, rice, barley and others available in health food stores. For something lighter, try rice crackers, Ry-Vita crackers or yeast-free pita bread. If you are allergic to yeast, try yeast-free breads or a sour dough loaf.

While on the LCD, it is essential that you avoid margarine and/or butter. If you must have a spread, try fresh avocado, hummus or tahini.

ELEVEN – Avoid constipation by eating plenty of raw fruits and vegetables and drinking water throughout the day. By avoiding constipation you will avoid the growth of unfriendly organisms in the large bowel. To increase the amount of the friendly acidophilus and other lactobacilli bacteria, you may take powdered forms of these or eat soya-bean yogurt.

TWELVE – Avoid excessive saturated or damaged fats. These unhealthy fats can cause liver damage with changes typical of a “fatty liver” similar to that seen in alcohol consumption. Many weight watchers try to follow a completely fat-free diet However, if this is done for more than four weeks, symptoms of essential fatty acid deficiency will start to occur. Furthermore, your liver function and metabolism will slow down leading to easy weight gain!

Symptoms of essential fatty acid deficiency are: dry and itchy skin, eczema, hair loss, joint pains, reduced fertility, increased rate of miscarriage, depression and poor memory, slow metabolic rate with weight gain, reduced immune function, hormonal imbalances, liver degeneration, fatigue, circulatory problems, degenerative diseases, increased rate of aging and high triglycerides.

I see thousands of overweight people and many do not eat excessive calories; their problems are due solely to the consumption of the wrong type of fats. The liver is the supreme fat-burning organ of the body and if you choke it with damaged fats it will be unable to perform its metabolic functions and your entire metabolism will slow down. As a result, you will gain weight easily, particularly around the abdominal area.

In a simplistic way we could say that a healthy liver pumps fat out of your body and keeps you slim.

Eating the wrong foods for your liver will cause an imbalance in the liver’s production of lipoproteins so that you will have too much low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and not enough high-density lipoproteins (HDL). This will increase your risk of atherosclerosis, heart disease and high blood pressure.

The type of fat you eat on a daily basis is so very important to your health and longevity and will have the greatest influence of all upon your liver function and weight.

Take care of your oils. Dietary oils will only take care of us if we take care of them by reducing their exposure to heat, air and light. Natural food oils such as those contained in fish, seeds, nuts, avocados, olives and legumes are protected from light, air and heat by virtue of the skins, coverings and shells around them and are fresher and healthier than the bottled versions. However, for salad dressings, light stir-frying, etc., ideally buy unrefined oils that have been cold-pressed and kept in dark-colored glass bottles to block out the light. Keep your oil in the fridge. Virgin olive oil is generally available and is a good choice because it is cold-pressed and has not been heated, refined or bleached.

From http://www.holistichealthtools.com/liver.html

Knowing how important our skin is, we should do something great for it. Perhaps starting a healthy habit is the most primary move to take as this helps our valued possession from outer and inner sources. Note that it’s the only skin we have, so it’s worth protecting.

Three Habits to Break

Is your skin as soft and healthy as you’d like? You may be sabotaging it without even knowing. So here are three of the habits that you must break as they wreak havoc on your skin. Note them in order to attain a beautiful and healthy skin.

Bad Habit #1: Shaving Dry

It is important to note that shaving legs and underarms dry can cause irritation, ingrown hairs and razor burn. So, to nurture the skin, softening it in the shower for about 10 minutes is worth considering. Most experts even recommend this stuff for those who wish to attain good looking skin. After doing it, you must apply a layer of shaving cream and not soap, which will just dull the razor and invite cuts. You must shave in long strokes. And, slather on body lotion post-shower.

Bad Habit #2: Ignoring Incidental Sun Exposure

It is true that walking from your car or wherever you may be to the office under the sun may not be as damaging as spending hours baking on the beach. However, it is important to note that even just a few minutes of exposure here and there doesn’t mean that you won’t get wrinkles. It does bring on wrinkles just the same. For that, you should try wearing a daily SPF lotion specially formulated for facial application. Many experts suggest brands of SPF lotion like the Clinique and Neutrogena as they have versions that really work well under makeup.

Bad Habit #3: Avoiding Exfoliation

It is often said that considering exfoliation of the skin brings out great results. Perhaps this is for the reason that if you just ignore exfoliation, dead skin cells will start to build up on the skin, causing itchiness and rashes, especially on the unpredictable or dry weather. So, it is often recommended that you scrub your skin daily with a puff, a loofah, or a grainy exfoliator to help sweep rough skin away. After scrubbing, apply moisturizer to lock in softness.

Nine Habits to Maintain

Now that you already know about the three bad habits to break, it is now time for you to consider what habits are to maintain in order to covet the best looking skin on earth. The following habits are actually shared by most dermatologists as their best advices for a clear complexion. So, if you want your skin to be on its behavior, you need to change your act now for the better and follow a few rules.

Good Habit #1: Avoid Too Much Cosmeceuticals

Numerous experts have said that with more and more beauty potions with alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs), antioxidants, salicylic acids, and retinoids in them, blending a cleanser from one line with a scrub or daytime moisturizer from another, then a night cream from yet another can lead to over-exfoliation as well as irritation. This can no doubt add up to a real dilemma, especially for those women who have olive and darker complexions. This is also possible for women who are more prone to discoloration when their skin is irritated.

So, to play it really safe, it is important that you only stick with one line of products. But, only use the line of products which are formulated to work together. It is often said that if for instance you use any prescription products like the famous Renova, the advice of your dermatologist is highly needed. Ask your specialist regarding on how to mix prescription treatments with the over the counter cosmeceutical products. Just don’t overdo beauty products.

Good Habit #2: Consider a Healthy Exercise

Exercise is great for a beautiful skin. So, considering at least twenty to thirty minutes of any aerobic exercise is worth trying. It will give you a glow, as it is often said. One of the supports for this is the fact that exercise boosts blood flow. It is this increased blood flow which will bring more nutrients to the skin. However, it is important to be aware that the accumulation of sebum or oil through perspiration can result in sweatband acne, folliculitis, as well as spiky heat. But, don’t worry; there is a simple solution for this – shower as soon as possible after shaking your booty.

Good Habit #3: Intimate with the Phone? Don’t Be!

Always note that constant rubbing on the mouthpiece may lead to rashes around the chin and mouth. This is what many people have believed, including dermatologists. So, it is important that when talking to somebody on the phone, hold the phone away from those mentioned areas when talking. Also, clean the phone often with a mild soapy solution or perhaps rubbing alcohol.

Good Habit #4: Examine Your Birthday Suit for Spots

When it comes to skin care, any sudden or suspicious-looking mole, bump or other growth on the skin is a reason to see a dermatologist. Nevertheless, as skin cancer rates skyrocketed, having a full body check up by a professional is very crucial. This is especially true for those us living in the baby-oil-and-iodine, pre-sunscreen generation.

Also, it is said that those who belong in a high risk group, meaning having a personal or family history of skin cancer, a lot of moles, fair skin, or light eyes or hair, should consult a specialist for a regular check up. The regular examination should start in their teens and probably no later than age 35. However, even if you do not belong in a high risk group, it is still recommended that between the ages of 20 and 40, people must have a cancer-related check up.

The check up must include skin exam and must be considered every three to four years. Once you hit your 40s, start undergoing a cancer-related examination with skin exam every year. Aside from that, it is advisable that you do monthly self-exams in order for you to keep an eye out for changes and growths.

Good Habit #5: Eat Healthy Foods

Healthy foods refer to those that help your skin and body fight against the bad forces outside and inside. You must consider antioxidants such as vitamin A, C and E as they are highly potent for sun damage and fight certain cancers, including skin cancer. This is actually the reason that makes antioxidants essential to your health. Along with this, a well balanced diet is highly recommended. This means making yourself comfortable with a diet filled with at least five servings a day of fruits and vegetables, plus a multivitamin that meets the RDA standards.

Good Habit #6: Avoid Wearing Your Makeup to Bed at Night

I guess, all of you know this rule, but just sometimes do it anyway. Well, it is necessary to note that layers of foundation, powder and even blusher left on overnight can cause the skin pores to clog and lead to acne or folliculitis. Knowing this warning, you must then take it all off before bed. You can do this by way of using a mild non-soap cleanser. However, remember not to waste bucks on a cleanser with glycolic acid or AHAs. As often said, it’s not on your face long enough to absorb into the skin. The mentioned ingredients are more effective in moisturizer than in cleanser.

Good Habit #7: Hands off Those Zits

We all get zits. That’s the truth. But, it doesn’t mean that we will just let those zits ruin our lives. We must do something to prevent them from forming, and we must do it by simply not to poke, prod, pop, or squeeze them. These actions can just prolong a zit’s life and make the problem worse. They may even lead to scarring as well as spread of infection. So, to speed up healing, never squeeze or poke them. Simply cleanse your face, and then apply a warm compress, like a clean and damp wash cloth. Then, dab your face on an over the counter cream or lotion containing a drying agent like the salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide or sulfur.

Good Habit #8: Rest and Get Enough Sleep

Many of us don’t get enough sleep and are stressed. Actually, there haven’t been any conclusive studies on how being tired affects the condition of the skin. But, the effects are not generally hard to detect. One of the most common effects is under-eye circles. So, to avoid whatever unfavorable effects there may be, you must budget in sleep time. This may include a short afternoon nap whenever you can manage it. However, don’t sleep in the same position for years on end as this can lead to wrinkles. Perhaps the best way to consider is looking for a special pillow that helps prevent sleep creases on your face.

Good Habit #9: Drink Plenty of Water

The bottom line here is to adopt plenty of water everyday as your mantra. You should know that drinking water does keep you hydrated. This even helps your skin to look and feel better. So, get in the standard of 6 to 8 eight-ounce glasses throughout the day. You can drink more if you are a heavy exerciser. And, if you are into low-cal liquids, drink more water to avoid dehydration. Note that most of the new sugar substitutes today are dehydrating.

As presented there are a lot of habits that we oftentimes ignore, thinking that they don’t play a significant role in our lives. But, the truth is, everything we do has a corresponding meaning and role that needs to be revealed and considered. If your main goal is attaining beautiful skin and general well-being, then a healthy lifestyle is worth maintaining. Note that our daily habits mean everything.

Sorry to bring up such extremes, but self-righteousness and delusion are the tools of intolerance. Intolerance always justifies itself, no matter how many martyrs perish. If you want to control anger, please discard intolerance and judgment of others.

Very often, anger is created within the ego and is a response to imaginary threats. This is most ironic, when a full blown conflict erupts over a perceived threat, which did not really exist. So how can this violent chain of events, within the mind, be prevented? How can the ego and intolerance be controlled? – Through self-realization – also known as, �Vichara.� This is not meditation, but a realization of �I am.� This is rational or logical thought, but true self-analysis requires time. For mankind to grasp collective sanity is a never- ending battle, but there is another way around this impasse.

This is the path of compassion or �Karuna�, forgiveness (Kshama), loving kindness, and friendship. Most people will respond in a similar fashion, but always be prepared to defuse hostilities with those who want to take every advantage and mistake kindness for weakness. This is another form of awareness, so be vigilant and observe others around you.

It is believed that when your brain becomes hot, you will not think logically. Drinking water and Pranayama will cool your brain. You may also want to engage in regular practice of Japa, meditation, prayer, and eat Sattvic food.

What about Hatha Yoga for anger management? In my experience, adolescent males have the greatest difficulty with anger management, but vigorous asana practice or Vinyasa helps them deal with rage and anger much better.

For two years, I taught Yoga classes within a local juvenile correctional facility. Some members of this group had serious issues with rage and anger. At first, there was some outright resistance to learning Yoga, even though they knew it would improve their lives.

Pranayama, relaxation, and meditation were difficult to teach, under these conditions, but they immediately caught on to Vinyasa. After the first two months of Vinyasa Yoga practice, many were able to relax and did meditate on their own.

About the author

Paul Jerard is a co-owner and the director of Yoga teacher training at: Aura Wellness Center, in North Providence, RI. He has been a certified Master Yoga teacher since 1995. He is a master instructor of martial arts, with multiple Black Belts, four martial arts teaching credentials, and was recently inducted into the USA Martial Arts Hall of Fame. He teaches Yoga, martial arts, and fitness to children, adults, and seniors in the greater Providence area. Recently he wrote: Is Running a Yoga Business Right for You? For Yoga students, who may be considering a new career as a Yoga teacher.