by Sherry Dell, PhD, CN

Purple is my favorite color.  This predisposes me to love all things purple.  So when it comes to food, blueberries get my attention for several reasons.  Besides their luscious color and their delicious taste, they are one of the most therapeutic plants on the planet.

Purple and indigo colored food of all kinds is high in a flavonoid called anthocyanins.  Anthocyanins are very high in antioxidants.  Because oxidative stress and the free radicals that are produced by oxidation are linked with so many degenerative processes, not surprisingly, the fruit of the blueberry plant and its antioxidant capacity have been shown in research to reduce aging symptoms in general.

Oxidation essentially wears down the tissues of the body.  Just like your old car that had oxidized or rust spots on it, our bodies can also “rust out.”  Oxidation is caused by everything from just plain breathing to being exposed to toxins either by choice (processed foods, alcohol, drugs, tobacco, etc.) or by environmental features (smog, paint fumes, farm chemicals in food, etc.).

The natural design of our bodies allows these oxidative processes or “fires” to be quenched through the anti-oxidants in our foods.  Water, for example, has very high antioxidant capacity. Measurements vary but below is a list of the 20 highest antioxidant capacity foods as identified by a recent USDA study (1).  Eating from this list is a very good idea for most people.  Notice especially the rating of the blueberry.

1. Small red bean (dried), 1/2 cup
2. Wild blueberry, 1 cup
3. Red kidney bean (dried), 1/2 cup
4. Pinto bean, 1/2 cup
5. Blueberry (cultivated), 1 cup
6. Cranberry, 1 cup (whole)
7. Artichoke (cooked hearts), 1 cup
8. Blackberry, 1 cup
9. Prune, 1/2 cup
10. Raspberry, 1 cup
11. Strawberry, 1 cup
12. Red delicious apple, 1
13. Granny Smith apple, 1
14. Pecan, 1 ounce
15. Sweet cherry, 1 cup
16. Black plum, 1
17. Russet potato, 1 cooked
18. Black bean (dried), 1/2 cup
19. Plum, 1
20. Gala apple, 1

To  be more specific about blueberries (both the fruit and the leaves), research has shown their positive impact on:

A close European cousin of the American blueberry (Vaccinium pallidum and Vaccinium corymbosum)  is called bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus).  Bilberry leaf has been researched to show similar results to the blueberry.

A therapeutic dose of blueberry fruit is one cup per day.  Not a bad prescription, eh?

_{(1) American Chemical Society. “Largest USDA Study Of Food Antioxidants Reveals Best Sources.” ScienceDaily 17 June 2004.}

_{(2) “Anthocyanins and Blueberries,” Nutrition Week, October 3, 1997;27(38):7/Doctor’s Guide to Medical and Other News, September 25, 1997;3.}

_{(3) “Blueberry-induced changes in spatial working memory correlate with changes in hippocampal CREB phosphorylation and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels,” Williams CM, El Mohsen MA, et al, Free Radical Biol Med, 2008 May 2.}

_{(4) “Cellular antioxidant activity of common fruits,” Wolfe KL, Kang X, et al, J Agric Food Chem, 2008; 24(56): 8418-26.} 

_{(5) “Blueberries May Reverse Some Aging,” Sison A, Medical Tribune, October, 1999;40(17):4.}

_{(6) “Antioxidant Activity of Berry Phenolics on Human Low-Density Lipoprotein and Liposome Oxidation,” Heinonen IM, et al, J Agric Food Chem, 1998;46(10):4107-4112.}

_{(7) “Blueberry fruit polyphenolics suppress oxidative stress-induced skeletal muscle cell damage in vitro,” Hurst RD, Wells RW, et al, Mol Nutr Food Res, 2010 March; 54(3): 353-63.}

_{(8) “Dietary flavanols and flavanol-rich foods intake and the risk of breast cancer,” Adebamowo CA, Cho E, et al, Int J Cancer., 2005; 114(4): 628-33.} 

Blueberry Smoothy

A simple way to take your “blueberry medicine” is to add the fruit to a protein drink.  Choose a low sugar, low carbohydrate protein powder such as rice, whey, or soy.  Add your protein powder to the blender with 1 cup fresh or frozen organic blueberries.  Perhaps 1 small banana, two or three ice cubes, and then 12-16 ounces water, rice milk, soy milk, almond milk or a mixture of all of the above. 

Blueberry or Bilberry Leaf Tea

A tea is prepared by combining 1 cup boiling water and 1–2 teaspoons of dried leaves and steeping for 15 minutes. Drink 1-3 cups/day to take advantage of the health benefits

“I am the Allower of my own Wellbeing”

A natural health newsletter written by Sherry Dell, PhD, CN

Volume 3, Issue 4
May, 2010

Purple is my favorite color.  This predisposes me to love all things purple.  So when it comes to food, blueberries get my attention for several reasons.  Besides their luscious color and their delicious taste, they are one of the most therapeutic plants on the planet.

Purple and indigo colored food of all kinds is high in a flavonoid called anthocyanins.  Anthocyanins are very high in antioxidants.  Because oxidative stress and the free radicals that are produced by oxidation are linked with so many degenerative processes, not surprisingly, the fruit of the blueberry plant and its antioxidant capacity have been shown in research to reduce aging symptoms in general.

Oxidation essentially wears down the tissues of the body.  Just like your old car that had oxidized or rust spots on it, our bodies can also “rust out.”  Oxidation is caused by everything from just plain breathing to being exposed to toxins either by choice (processed foods, alcohol, drugs, tobacco, etc.) or by environmental features (smog, paint fumes, farm chemicals in food, etc.).

The natural design of our bodies allows these oxidative processes or “fires” to be quenched through the anti-oxidants in our foods.  Water, for example, has very high antioxidant capacity. Measurements vary but below is a list of the 20 highest antioxidant capacity foods as identified by a recent USDA study (1).  Eating from this list is a very good idea for most people.  Notice especially the rating of the blueberry.

1. Small red bean (dried), 1/2 cup
2. Wild blueberry, 1 cup
3. Red kidney bean (dried), 1/2 cup
4. Pinto bean, 1/2 cup
5. Blueberry (cultivated), 1 cup
6. Cranberry, 1 cup (whole)
7. Artichoke (cooked hearts), 1 cup
8. Blackberry, 1 cup
9. Prune, 1/2 cup
10. Raspberry, 1 cup
11. Strawberry, 1 cup
12. Red delicious apple, 1
13. Granny Smith apple, 1
14. Pecan, 1 ounce
15. Sweet cherry, 1 cup
16. Black plum, 1
17. Russet potato, 1 cooked
18. Black bean (dried), 1/2 cup
19. Plum, 1
20. Gala apple, 1

To  be more specific about blueberries (both the fruit and the leaves), research has shown their positive impact on:

A close European cousin of the American blueberry (Vaccinium pallidum and Vaccinium corymbosum)  is called bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus).  Bilberry leaf has been researched to show similar results to the blueberry.

A therapeutic dose of blueberry fruit is one cup per day.  Not a bad prescription, eh?

_{(1) American Chemical Society. “Largest USDA Study Of Food Antioxidants Reveals Best Sources.” ScienceDaily 17 June 2004.}

_{(2) “Anthocyanins and Blueberries,” Nutrition Week, October 3, 1997;27(38):7/Doctor’s Guide to Medical and Other News, September 25, 1997;3.}

_{(3) “Blueberry-induced changes in spatial working memory correlate with changes in hippocampal CREB phosphorylation and brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels,” Williams CM, El Mohsen MA, et al, Free Radical Biol Med, 2008 May 2.}

_{(4) “Cellular antioxidant activity of common fruits,” Wolfe KL, Kang X, et al, J Agric Food Chem, 2008; 24(56): 8418-26.} 

_{(5) “Blueberries May Reverse Some Aging,” Sison A, Medical Tribune, October, 1999;40(17):4.}

_{(6) “Antioxidant Activity of Berry Phenolics on Human Low-Density Lipoprotein and Liposome Oxidation,” Heinonen IM, et al, J Agric Food Chem, 1998;46(10):4107-4112.}

_{(7) “Blueberry fruit polyphenolics suppress oxidative stress-induced skeletal muscle cell damage in vitro,” Hurst RD, Wells RW, et al, Mol Nutr Food Res, 2010 March; 54(3): 353-63.}

_{(8) “Dietary flavanols and flavanol-rich foods intake and the risk of breast cancer,” Adebamowo CA, Cho E, et al, Int J Cancer., 2005; 114(4): 628-33.} 

Blueberry Smoothy

A simple way to take your “blueberry medicine” is to add the fruit to a protein drink.  Choose a low sugar, low carbohydrate protein powder such as rice, whey, or soy.  Add your protein powder to the blender with 1 cup fresh or frozen organic blueberries.  Perhaps 1 small banana, two or three ice cubes, and then 12-16 ounces water, rice milk, soy milk, almond milk or a mixture of all of the above. 

Blueberry or Bilberry Leaf Tea

A tea is prepared by combining 1 cup boiling water and 1–2 teaspoons of dried leaves and steeping for 15 minutes. Drink 1-3 cups/day to take advantage of the health benefits

By Joy Heartsong

The time between Thanksgiving and New Years is the most stressful 6 weeks of the year.  Some say it has to do with the lack of sunshine.  I believe it has to do with familial stress and money.

Joy Heartsong is one of my favorite energy workers and energy movers.  Her Seven Steps to Less Stress will teach you how to move the stress out and the love in.

“‘Tis the season to be jolly…” as one popular carol proclaims. Yet, it’s easy to lose the true spirit of the season with the formidable list of all the preparations and “must do’s” looming before us. The good news is…it’s not too late to add spice to your holidays and ease to your life. Yes, there is still time to keep the “jolly” and release the “folly” in the season.
 
Are you one of those over-achiever types who gets so focused on shopping, wrapping, decorating, signing, baking and cleaning that, almost before you know it, you find yourself feeling stressed, resentful, rushed and maybe a little depressed? If so, take a closer look at what you’re doing to yourself and what you can do to shift this pattern. (By the way, this works for other situations and responsibilities too.)

 
Follow the seven easy steps below.

1. Discover: First, convince yourself that it’s okay to take a few minutes to relax. Trust me. You’ll still get the important things done. Now close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. See a picture in your mind of what you really love about this very special holiday. What is it that makes you feel really good, peaceful and joyful? Where are you? Who is with you?

1. Determine: What is really important and what isn’t? (Hint: You already discovered what makes you feel happy and energized in the first step.) What can you do cheerfully within your timeline? Share with family and friends who will be affected by the changes.
2. Delegate: How can you delegate what you are no longer willing to do or have time to do? How can others help or participate? If it’s important to you, hire someone to do some of the work or trade services.
3. Delete: If it’s something that drains your energy or consumes too much time, you may choose to cross it off your to-do list.
4. Delay: Let go of the need to have everything done now. Some things can wait. Cards can be sent out any time during the year or as a new year’s greeting/update. Redecorating? Chances are your guests won’t care either way. Postponing may work better when you aren’t so busy and can give more attention to the details.
5. Devote: Focus your energy on doing what feels good to you. You may find it’s having more quality time for sharing with your family, engaging in spiritual activities or volunteering to help others in need.
6. Develop: Finally, develop an attitude of gratitude for every gift of life (whether it makes you glad or sad), each person and every experience that comes your way. If you really need to do something that you’d rather not do (like going to work), change your thoughts about it. Consider all the reasons you have for feeling grateful for having this job. Then your greater appreciation helps you feel good about going to work. Develop a sense of being at peace with what is.

 
You have the power to create that sense of feeling good inside…the one that feels like love, peace and joy. Feeling good is not determined by what you say and do; it’s how you feel about what you’re saying and doing that affects your energetic vibration. Use the seven steps above, as often as you choose, to help you shift into a place of feeling more peaceful and loving.
 
Now that you have a way to determine and prioritize what’s important to you, what makes you feel good and what brings you more joy, delight in the choices you’ve made that allow you more time to relax and receive the joys of the season.

By Amy Cook-Porter

Having two runners in the family, I’m always looking for ways to keep them hydrated.  Living at 6,000 feet means that dehydration is always an issue. 

The standard thought on high-altitude imbibing is “drink at least half your body weight” – in ounces not pounds of course.  So a 160 pound person should drink 80 ounces or ten 8 ounce glasses.  If they are a runner, 120 ounces is recommended.

That is if they aren’t sweating.  Then water is not enough.  A runner needs salt to help replace the missing electrolytes.  And, drinking salt water is not going to do it.  Ask any teenage runner.  They want flavor to cut the salty taste.

I personally don’t like most of the sports drinks on the market.  Most of them use corn syrup as their sweetener.  Yes, hydrating drinks need sugar – for both the glucose and the calories.  Most sport drinks also use color dyes to coincide with the flavoring.  The coloring is definitely not necessary!

While searching online I found a Boston nutritionist who figured out a basic sports drink that anyone can make from home.  I am including her recipe with commentary.

• The text in parenthesis are my comments and enhancements.
• The asterisk connects you to my friend and fellow blogger, Michele Mukatis’s text at the bottom.  These are her suggestions on other juices that will reduce the acid of the orange juice.

Sports Drink Recipe
from “Nancy Clark’s Sports Nutrition Guidebook”  (www.nancyclarkrd.com/books/sportsnutrition.asp )

    1/4 cup sugar (cane sugar)
    1/4 teaspoon salt (sea salt is best)
    1/4 cup orange juice*
    1/4 cup hot water
    2 tablespoons lemon juice (fresh squeezed)
    3 1/2 cups cold water

In a quart pitcher, dissolve the sugar and salt in the hot water.  Add the lemon juice, other juice and then the cold water.

Contains: about 50 calories, depending on the juice; and 110 mg of salt per 8 ounces

*  (Michele’s comment)  OJ is too acidic for many people.  I would try the recipe with organic grape juice or apple juice, both of which are higher sugar content to begin with and often used as “natural” sweetener in other products.
 
It might be fun to try mango or papaya if you’re not trying to buy local. There are so many good nutrients in those two.

(For more ideas, check out her website, websites.integrativenutrition.com/MMukatis/Home/Index.aspx)

By Barbara Royal,Spiritual Director
Founder of The Soul Restoration Process

Forty-nine years ago, as a teenager, I felt excluded from my peer group and was seeking ways to be part of the crowd. Everyone I knew smoked. Something inside convinced me smoking was a way I could be accepted. So, thinking smoking was the key to belonging, I lit my first cigarette and continued for 30 plus years. I did not mind that I had to give up sports due to shortness of breath, coughing and congestion. It didn’t bother me that I wreaked of smoke – we all smelled alike and maybe my new perfume was a way for me to fit in. – or so I thought. In later years, I realized that being like others by smoking didn’t make people like or accept me – rather, acceptance of my SELF was the key. But, that is another story.

My smoking habit began before the Surgeon General declared smoking was bad for your health. When that declaration was made, I ignored the cautions, the changing cultural view about smoking, and the seemingly negative comments of my co-workers, friends and family. I stood firm – I was not going to “quit” smoking. However, I was told by an alternative health care practitioner I needed to stop smoking if I wished to accomplish a dental/physical health goal. Wanting to heal my dental/physical situation (but not wanting to “quit” smoking), I began a spiritual process that I had recently learned. In this process, I used intentional prayer and affirmed and felt in my body that my intention for dental/physical health was already accomplished. A SHIFT occurred, and while I had not intended to “quit” smoking, the habit left instantly. This is why I say I never “quit” smoking – I had no cravings for a cigarette or withdrawal symptoms, nor did I have the expenses incurred by most people to reinforce “quitting” – I just became smoke free! That was 17 years ago, and I haven’t smoked since. And the dental/physical health issue was changed as well. By the way, during that period I was also going through a divorce and purchasing my home. No stress there! The universe in its infinite wisdom knew exactly what had to be changed in my mind and body for me to achieve what I needed in my life at that time.

While the method I used has changed, the spiritual principles and the wisdom of nature and the human body have not. They are timeless and always available to us.

I call my updated method The Soul Restoration Process, which has evolved over the past 17 years of personal and spiritual seeking, and formal and informal training. The Soul Restoration Process assigns the same functions to the soul as science assigns to the subconscious mind, in that the soul and the subconscious mind are a creative medium. They retain negative and positive memories put into them from the conscious mind.

Science tells us that 95% to 99% of our life’s experiences are a demonstration of those memories. The Soul Restoration Process is a synthesis of science, intention and spirituality. It is a proven method for changing negative, self-sabotaging memories and beliefs and creating healthy, joyful, abundant living.

The Soul Restoration Process is affordable and easy to learn. All you have to do is be willing to:

•    create a healthy life
•    think outside the box
•    learn, and work in harmony with certain spiritual principles
•    receive and accept your blessings
•    commit to self-treatment to reinforce your intention

View www.barbararoyal.com for more information. You may also contact Barbara for a free consultation at 719-687-6823 or barbara@barbararoyal.com.

Neil E. Rand, Ph.D.
© Copyright 2009

A presentation on the high personal and financial costs of stress – plus effective solutions for the growing problem of stress.

1. The True Nature of Stress – It is necessary to understand what stress really is in order to create ways to effectively combat it

2. When Stress Invades Your Company
• The high personal costs for managers and employees
• The major negative impacts upon the functioning of the organization
• The direct costs to your company – and the hidden costs – which impact your company’s bottom line

3. The Signs and Symptoms of Stress – what to look for in people and in the company

4. Stress Elimination rather than stress “management”

5. Proven Solutions for Reducing and Eliminating Stress – including solutions which can be implemented quickly and easily in any work setting

6. Cost Savings for Your Company – what the research shows about the money companies save when they implement a stress reduction program
 

A question and answer period will follow the presentation.

This presentation can be adapted to fit the current needs or requirements of your company.
For additional information or to schedule a presentation, contact:

Dr. Neil E. Rand
719.231.1443
DrRand@comcast.net

By Amy Porter

Have you ever been at a crossroads and not known where to go? Do you act like Robert Frost and choose the road less traveled? Or do you traverse the beaten path, taking comfort in familiar ground, searching for new meaning along the way?

It’s up to you the path you choose. So, which do you choose? Do you take any of these route?

• Best and highest good – Choosing what is good for you vs what makes you happiest
• Noble virtue –Self-sacrificing at its best
• Validation – Asking your friends, family, co-workers, anyone who will listen or has an opinion
• What’s in it for – Making it all about you
• Prayer, meditation or focusing – Going within to find the answers
• Getting a reading or counseling – Asking someone who specializes in giving advice for a price
• Flip a coin, Ouija board or Eight Ball – Going with a guess
• Gut reaction – Trusting your instinct

It’s up to you. You are at the crossroads to getting healthy. Your choice.

During all through the year, Vitesis will feature experts who will be giving you health information. You can choose whether its:

• Fact or fiction
• Allopathic or alternative
• Exercise or diet
• What’s politically correct
• What’s innovative

And, what you do with the information is – it’s up to you. Your choice! Your crossroads!

Rev. Ahriana Platten
www. Ecospiritual.com

Winter has arrived.  I love this cozy time of year.  I long to snuggle beneath a soft blanket of fluff and read that book I never seem to find time for.  This is the season to rest, reflect on the year gone by, and recharge your batteries so you are ready when spring moves you into action once again.

Rest.  How many of us really know what that feels like?   Many of us believe that rest and sleep are the same thing.  They are not.

Rest is peace-full and aware.  The mind quiets when we rest, yet does not “check out”.   Rest can happen, even in the midst of such activities as eating and sleeping going to work, attending school and doing homework, household chores, and other day-to-day responsibilities.

Here are a few suggestions the create a more rest-full life:

1.  Change your state of mind:  Choose peace. Give yourself permission not to think so much.  We are a society that finds its safety in “knowing the answer” to whatever occurs.  For just a few weeks, allow yourself not to “know.”  Go ahead – try it!  Say “I don’t know.”  Doesn’t that feel good?  Nothing more  for anyone to ask you after that!

2.  Reduce the mental stimulation.  Instead of books that make you work, read what you enjoy.  Take in less electronic media and replace it with an easy walk outside each day.  If its too cold, bake something that makes your whole house smell yummy, or take the time to have a personal cozy-up with your favorite kitty!

3.  Change your environment:  Play soft music at your desk.  Make time for tea with quiet, gentle friends.  Snuggle into your most comfortable clothing and dim the lights a bit.  Candles, incense  or aromatherapy are perfect for creating a nurturing space in which to relax.

4.  Let something go:  Take the time to write down everything on your “to do” list.  Now, using this as an opportunity to really love yourself, cross off three things that can wait until Spring.  Ask yourself if anyone will be forced to”leave the planet” if you slow down the production pace just a little bit.  Cleaning the closet can wait.  Fixing the car may be another story.    Meet your deadlines if you must – and let yourself off the hook if the deadlines are self-imposed.

5.  Make time for stillness:  If you look out the window, you’ll see that nature is resting.  The grass has stopped growing.  The leaves have fallen and the barren branches inform us that it is time for quiet.  To try and grow something now is to push energy against the very will of nature.  Now is not the time of growth, its the time to be still.

6.  Simplify your Holidays:  Invite fewer people.  Go to one less party.  Write meaningful cards for those who touch your heart deeply, and drop acquaintances off  your “obligation” list.  The “Holy-Day” season is a time for sharing our sacred stories and beliefs.  Give the gift they really want – Time with you!

To be completely honest, I am not always very good at resting.  I am, however, committed to taking the simple steps above.  To rest, we must commit ourselves to living differently.  We must also be forgiving in our self- judgement as we learn to do something our culture does not teach us to do, nor necessarily appreciate.

As we travel into this season of rest, I am thankful for your companionship on the journey!

By Janet Marletto

This article was first published on www.Equinaut.net in February 04. Because the information is still timely, we chose to re-run it.

Feng Shui is about the basics of life: air, water, change, health, career, prosperity, family, and relationships of all kinds, wisdom, balance and harmony. Everything sounds so simple until addressed.

In our high tech world, Feng Shui validates low tech approaches: clearing out the clutter of stuff and emotions which can roadblock progress.

The advice on how to attain inner peace has been around for ages, literally:

First healing oneself. Do this by reflecting, meditating, and internal listening. There are many approaches. Here are a few of them:

Centered prayer: Say your favorite prayer very slowly; breathing deeply and evenly. At the end of the prayer, go to the silent place and just be. (This may take about a year or so of daily meditation to get to the silent place without mind clutter. When the chatter happens in your head, just go back to the silent place. The chatter is normal.)

Meditation group: Join a meditation group to reinforce the habit of meditation.

Contact Sharon Schulman 719.533.0707 about the weekly group she coordinates or Roxanne Roberts in Woodland Park 719.290.0275.

Breath technique: Find a comfortable place. Sit upright with feet on the floor (no crossing of legs or ankles). Put a timer on for 8 minutes. Slowly, take three deep breaths. Focus on your breath as you breath in to four counts and hold for four counts and release to eight counts. This makes you conscious of your breath that most of us take for granted. It calms you and allows you to clear your mind. As time progresses, you will be able to do this anywhere any time effortlessly.

Guided meditation: Has its place especially in groups when there is a purpose. If you would like to begin with this method, you can use tapes/CDs which can be purchased, such as those by the Dalai Lama, Caroline Myss to name a few.

Mixed: Use the different techniques and see which works best for you. Remember that silent meditation is the most powerful of all. Why? Because prayer is when we talk to God. Silent meditation is when God talks to us!

Go within to find that peaceful feeling. Sure, right! Where is it? In most of us, that place can be found in our memory bank.

Sit quietly, close your eyes. Go to the time in your life before you went to school.

In other words, the time before you were socialized. When you were alone and playing happily by yourself, what were you doing? This serves as a window into your soul. What truly satisfies you? For example, I played house, princess and school. I went on to become a teacher and then an executive in luxury hotels (modern day castles! Because of the nature of my responsibilities, it was my castle!)

Then go further and identify what produced it? That may take awhile if meditation is a new activity. It is worth the pursuit.

Which of your “play” activities produced the most peaceful, soul satisfying feeling? Is there anything in your adult life, which produces that same feeling for you? For example, I get that same feeling when I am painting or creating a lovely environment or spending time with people who nurture me and vice versa.

If your mother is available, you may wish to ask her what you as a preschooler did for hours on end very peacefully. She may be able to provide another insight.

That may take awhile if meditation is a new activity and/or you have not given this much thought before. It is worth the pursuit.

Inner peace (or the lack of it) manifests in every aspect of a person’s life. It is a gracious quality which makes itself visible in one’s voice, demeanor, facial expressions actions and being. Those rare souls who attain it, radiate it!

How do they do it?

As noted above, they do it step by step by looking at personal issues or hot buttons which can be resolved most quickly and easily.

Whenever possible, it is wise to request support and assistance from close friends who might also desire to embark upon a personal development quest with you. This makes it a mutual healing journey. This camaraderie deepens bonds and speeds the healing process for all concerned.

Approaching issues incrementally allows for periodic celebrations of success and keeps the momentum going. It’s amazing to note the progress made on a quarterly basis.

Peace is the lovely reward and is well worth the effort.

In the words of Mother Teresa’s business card:

The fruit of Silence is Prayer
The fruit of Prayer is Faith
The fruit of Faith is Love
The fruit of Love is Service
The fruit of Service is Peace

About the author: Janet Marletto, a Feng Shui practitioner, published writer and teacher since 1996, uses the traditional Chinese approach to Feng Shui.

Aluna Joy Yaxk’in ~
www.AlunaJoy.com

In Mayan tradition, there is a greeting that many people working with Mayan wisdom know of. It is the law of In Lak’ech Ala K’in, which means I am another yourself (A modern day interpretation). It also means I am you, and you are me (A traditional Mayan interpretation). We have come to understand that this Mayan greeting is an honoring for each other. It is a statement of unity and oneness. In Lak’ech Ala K’in mirrors the same sediment of other beautiful greetings such as Namaste for East India, Wiracocha for the Inca, and Mitakuye Oyasin for the Lakota. It doesn’t matter which culture you come from. But when one of these sacred greetings is given, there is always an action of placing the hands over the heart.

The more I walk the Mayan path, the more I understand the depth that In Lak’ech Ala K’in teaches. This greeting has become more than a simple, honorable Maya greeting. It has evolved into a moral code, and a way to create a positive reality for all life. As we near 2012 with all its doom and gloom prophecies, we have a moral obligation to Spirit to live the code of In Lak’ech Ala K’in.

It is common knowledge these days that every action we take in our lives affects all living things. We understand that if we act negatively, our actions impact all life negatively. When we act positively, we affect all life in a positive manner. When we live the Mayan code of In Lak’ech Ala K’in, we know that every action we take is out of respect for all life, and we are living and giving from our hearts.

We can give our hearts in a positive manner every day by saying In Lak’ech Ala K’in to each other, to the trees, to the sky, to the birds, and to the stars. You can greet each sunrise by saying In Lak’ech Ala K’in. Each and every day we have together is sacred, so acknowledge this day by giving it your heart. Remember when you give in this way, you are also giving to yourself! You are not giving your energy away to something separate from yourself. Y ou are giving to another part of yourself!

I understand the challenges in staying positive in these days where the energy is so compressed that we can hardly breathe, but there is one simple exercise that can turn it all around for us. Each day, simply walk in gratefulness. We can say In Lak’ech Ala K’in to that which gives us life everyday, and that is the heart of the Great Spirit. Instead of solely taking from the Great Spirit by asking for insight and direction, give back your heart, love, and appreciation. You will be amazed at the results. If we open our hearts and send gratitude, it opens all doors that were previously closed to us. Remember you are a part of Great Spirit! When you give to Great Spirit you are giving to yourself.

We can practice In Lak’ech Ala K’in tirelessly, because when and what we give to others is giving energy to ourselves. When we give, we receive. So how do we know if we giving right? It is really simple. When we are energized by our giving, we know we are giving from our hearts and from the code of In Lak’ech Ala K’in. If we feel drained or exhausted, it is possible that we gave out of fear, lack, obligation, ego, or a need to be accepted or liked. The more one practices In Lak’ech Ala K’in, the clearer we will become about our motivations regarding our actions, and the more we will receive. Remember . . . what goes around comes around exactly the way it was sent out. If you don’t like what life is sending to you, look at what you are sending out to life.

When we begin to live and practice In Lak’ech Ala K’in, a lot of our old ways of doing things will no longer work for us. For instance, we cannot act like victims anymore, and we cannot live out of fear either. We find ourselves no longer preparing for disaster; instead we anticipate a glorious future. It is time for us to rewrite the prophecies. They have become obsolete. The past will become just a bad dream, and the future will become a beautiful vision of which we will create right now.

When we practice In Lak’ech Ala K’in, we quit being neutral in our world, because we understand that Spirit works with those that take action. We begin to take action by adding to the positive experience of this dimension. So what kind of world do you want? Don’t just stand there waiting for the world to appear in front of you. Spirit helps those who help themselves. It is up to us.

When we practice the moral code of In Lak’ech Ala K’in, we are producing and sending positive and vital energy that can literally transform our troubled world into Paradise. When we live from In Lak’ech Ala K’in, we are putting to use our natural ability to create our reality. We are affecting the collective consciousness of humanity in a positive way. The Cosmic Maya, also known as the “Star Elders” or “Invisible Council”, understood this natural power to create their reality. Their sacred calendars mapped the natural laws of the universe. Now it is our turn to come to this understanding. It is time for us to walk as the Star Elders did so many years ago. The time has come for us to change the world.

The more humanity begins to live In Lak’ech Ala K’in, the less we will think in terms of our separateness. There can be no competition, jealousy or envy between us, because we are pieces of each other. We can share and help each other with our connections, ideas and resources without fear that there will not be enough to go around. When we live the reality of unity, abundance and wholeness, there will be unity, abundance and wholeness! The more of us that participate in the creation of a better world, the quicker it will arrive. We will have peace, love, harmony and unity, and will finally have arrived home.

Aluna Joy Yaxk’in is an internationally known author, spiritual life coach, sacred site guide, alternative historian, ordained minister and modern mystic who inspires and encourages others to recognize and accept their own authentic divinity and connection to God. Aluna Joy Yaxk’in, PO Box 1988, Sedona AZ 86339 Ph: 928-282-6292 Webpage: www.AlunaJoy.com E-mail: alunajoy@alunajoy.com
Copyright © 2007 – Permission is granted to copy and redistribute this article on the condition that the content remains complete, full credit is given to the author(s),
Center of the SUN – Aluna Joy Yaxk’in, PO Box 1988 Sedona, AZ 86339 USA Ph:928-282-6292 Ph/Fax:928-282-4622 Email: alunajoy@1spirit.com website:www.AlunaJoy.com

By Jennifer Aguilar

For parents and children alike, September is a month of transition. It is the month where the unstructured, carefree days of summer give way to the structured schedules of school and after school activities. One of the biggest challenges in accommodating this transition is adjusting to sensible sleep schedules and staying focused for a long period of time. This is where aromatherapy can be helpful for parents and children.

A critical step, in making the transition from summer break to school, is getting to sleep at a decent hour so parents and children can be well rested. This is often difficult when parents and children are accustomed retiring at a late hour. Luckily, aromatherapy offers several options. Evening applications of essential oils such as lavender, tangerine, and ylang ylang promote feelings of calm and relaxation.

Fewer things ruin a day more than a rough morning. Unfortunately, waking at an early hour is often challenging for children and stressful for the parents that need to feed them and get them to school. Luckily, aromatherapy can be very helpful in waking up in a positive state of mind. Essential oils of grapefruit, lemon, and coriander not only have invigorating and uplifting properties, but they promote feelings of joy. Thus, children and parents starting their day awakened, and in a positive state of mind, often have more productive and less stressful days. Furthermore, handling unexpected setbacks throughout the day is often easier.

For parents that bring their work home, and their children who have after school activities and homework, aromatherapy is also useful for maintaining mental stamina. Though the essential oils used for awakening are uplifting and refreshing, essential oils such as ginger, nutmeg and peppermint are energizing, and invigorating. Thus, they are perfect for staying focused and in combating mental fatigue.

The uses of essential oils are numerous. They can be used in evening or morning bathing rituals, added to vaporizers, diffusers or mists. They can also be applied, a few drops at a time, directly onto clothing, linens or pajamas. Some can be applied directly to the skin as needed. Another technique is to apply several drops of essential oil to a cotton ball, tissue or handkerchief directly inhaling the item. Regardless of what oils to use and how they are used, it is important use them according to the manufacturers instructions. Many essential oils are very gentle when applied directly to the skin while others require a carrier oil such as jojoba, or almond oil.

There are many aromatherapy products available on the market. To get their benefits, one must be an educated consumer.

• Look for products that are packaged in dark blue or amber containers. Essential oils are unstable and degrade readily when exposed to oxygen and ultraviolet light, thus clear containers cannot be used for any product containing essential oils. If a product is packaged in a clear container, the product’s aroma is likely a synthetic fragrance and not a true essential oil from a plant, thus, you are not going to get the full benefits of aromatherapy.
  Get into the habit of being a label reader. Look for real essential oils on the label and, if you are buying a bath and body product, make sure that the product is botanically based. Avoid products that have ingredients such as synthetic fragrances, petroleum derived ingredients, such as mineral oil, or animal by-products such as collagen, and hydrolyzed animal protein. Not only do these ingredients not benefit the skin, many of these ingredients can clog pores and cause adverse reactions.

For those not inclined to experiment with different essential oils, numerous health food stores and direct distributors offer essential oil blends, mists and bath and body preparations. The Aromassentials line of mists and bath and body products by Arbonne International combine real essential oils in a botanically based, vegan product. Available, are mists, soaking salts, sea salt scrubs, massage oil, shower gel and body lotion in three user friendly aromatic blends: Unwind, for relaxing; Awaken, for starting the day refreshed, happy and ready to go; and Reactivate for rejuvenation. Also, many communities have clubs and organizations that offer advice on aromatherapy for optimal health as well as www.Meetup.com.

Jennifer Aguilar is an Independent Consultant with Arbonne International. She can be reached at NaturalSwissBeauties@myarbonne.com.