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Holistic Health

Health Benefits Of Lemons

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With so much hype surrounding new and exotic superfoods it’s very easy to forget the simple traditional superfoods that have stood the test of time. These are the superfoods we’ve been using every day for generations without even thinking of the incredible health benefits they bestow.

Traditional superfoods are readily available and much less costly. One of the most valuable of the traditional superfoods is the humble lemon, peel and all, which certainly packs a powerful punch when it comes to turbo-charging your health.

Lemons really are a wonder food loaded with nutrients and health benefits. Well-known as an excellent source of vitamin C, they also contain a wide range of other nutrients. These include flavonoids, vitamin B-complex, calcium, magnesium, potassium, iron, copper and phosphorous, citric acid and fibre.

LEMONS – ACIDIC OR ALKALINE?

Many people get confused about whether lemons are acidic or alkaline. They wonder how lemons can be an “alkaline food” when they’re so acidic to taste. In fact they’re both.

Outside the body lemon juice is acidic. But once the lemon juice has been fully metabolised within the body and its minerals have been dissociated into the bloodstream its effect is alkalizing..

This means it raises the pH of body tissues making them alkaline. In acidic environments the structure and function of the cell are damaged. Lemons help to return the body to a healthier alkaline state to fight off the wide range of dangerous and unpleasant illnesses including cancer associated with acidic body fluids.

Lemons are one of the most alkalizing foods around.

 

WARM LEMON WATER, YOUR #1 HEALTH PRACTICE

My Number 1 Wellness Recommendation

If you can only do ONE thing to improve your health, then it should be to drink the juice of half a lemon in a glass of warm water every morning. The trick is to do it when you first rise in the morning, half an hour before you eat or drink anything else.

The combination of lemon and warm water encourages the production of bile by the liver. This supports the liver, prevents liver disease and helps eliminate toxins. It stimulates gastric juices and acts well to cleanse the bowel.

Even just adding a few drops of lemon juice to water or food can aid in digestion and cleanse the system.

How Lemon Water can Boost Health

✧ Help weight loss

✧ Improve digestion

✧Assist your liver to eliminate toxins

✧ Help elimination of toxic wastes

✧ Balance pH within your body

✧ Protect your cardiovascular and nervous systems

✧ Boost your immune system

That’s 7 brilliant reasons for you to drink warm lemon water in the morning

Here’s instructions about how to make and take Warm Lemon Water so you can start right away.

But warm lemon water is only the beginning of discovering the beauty and power of the lemon. Read on for other reasons to eat more lemons.

13 REASONS TO EAT LEMONS EVERY DAY

1. Blood Sugar Regulation

The incidence of Insulin Resistance is increasing. It occurs when the body fails to respond to its own blood sugar regulator, insulin. When blood sugar levels increase, it can lead to diabetes. Eating a low GI (glycemic index) diet combined with weight management are essential in managing this condition.

But selecting foods with low to medium GI ranking is just the start. You can do more to lower the glycemic index of your meal by up to 20 -40% just by adding a few teaspoons of lemon juice. Lemon juice lowers the insulin response to carbohydrates. It also slows down the time it takes a meal to leave your stomach – a key to dropping your weight

2. Fight Cancer

Lemons contain 22 anti-cancer compounds including limonene. Limonene is a natural oil that helps to slow or halt the growth of cancer. Lemons also contain flavanol glycosides which can halt cell division in cancers. This study showed the limonoids present in lemons and other citrus fruit, impede both ER+ and ER- breast cancer cell growth. It supports past studies which showed lemon consumption may lower breast cancer risk. This study shows limonene protects against digestive and upper respiratory tract cancers.

3. Eye Protection

The rutin in lemons can help maintain eye health and protect against disorders like retinopathy.

4. Cardiovascular Benefits

The bioflavonoids in lemons help strengthen blood vessels and keep them soft and pliable. They prevent internal haemorrhage and are useful for reducing high blood pressure.

5. Calm Digestion

Adding just a few drops of lemon juice to your meal helps with both indigestion and constipation, as it acts as a blood purifier and cleansing agent.

6. As an Antiseptic

Lemons are useful for treating acne because they have powerful antiseptic properties. As an antibacterial they destroy intestinal worms which thrive in an acidic digestive system. Changing the gut environment to alkaline destroys them.

7. Reverse Low Oxygen

Lemon juice is very useful in places with insufficient oxygen. Perhaps you should carry some if you are heading to high mountainous places. Sir Edmund Hilary attributed his success on Mt Everest to lemons. It’s useful in any situation where oxygen levels are low, relieving breathing and respiratory symptoms.

8. Brain and Nerve Health

Lemon peel has been proven to be effective for brain disorders such as Parkinson’s disease. Rich in potassium, lemon juice stimulates brain and nerve function to improve concentration, memory and calm.

9. Dissolving Kidney Stones and Gallstones

Lemons are well known for their benefit in treating kidney stones. Citric acid in the juice of the lemon helps to dissolve gallstones, kidney stones and calcium deposits. It also helps prevent the formation of crystals.

10. Neutralise Free Radicals

Lemons are rich in flavonoids with antioxidant properties which neutralize free radicals and prevent ageing.

11. Skin Care

When lemons are mixed with honey and applied to the skin they bring a healthy glow and act as an anti-aging remedy. They can help remove wrinkles and blackheads.

12. Immune Support

Lemons are rich in immune boosting vitamin C and flavonoids. These strengthen the immune system to fight off colds and flu. Combined with honey and warm water, lemon is one of the most effective treatments for colds and coughs.

14. Anti-Inflammatory

The antioxidants in lemons are an excellent anti-inflammatory. They help reduce joint inflammation and pain by dissolving uric acid. Lemons can relieve painful joints, sciatica and lumbago.

Finally, lemons cleansing abilities can provide a wonderful way to detox.

Lemons are a brilliant blood purifier to help remove toxins from the body. This includes radiation and lemon juice drinks offer support to those undergoing chemotherapy.

The juice, roughage and skin of lemons all have benefits to your health. Make sure to include this traditional superfood in your diet for the many amazing health benefits of lemons.

Disclaimer

The Information contained on this site is for your general health information. It is not intended to be used as medical advice and should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any medical condition, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes. The information is not a substitute for independent professional advice and should not be used as an alternative to professional healthcare. If you have a particular medical problem, please consult a healthcare professional.

© Catherine Bullard and Happy Holistic Health, 2016. Unauthorised use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Catherine Bullard and Happy Holistic Health with appropriate and specific direction to the original content

Conscious Mindset

Access the Power of Gratitude

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The practice of gratitude as a tool for creating happiness has been mainstream for years. Long-term studies support the effectiveness and benefits of gratitude practice. They suggest a positive, appreciative attitude contributes to greater success in work, greater health, peak performance in sports and business, a higher sense of well-being, and a faster rate of recovery from surgery. The power of a gratitude practice is substantial.

But while we may acknowledge gratitude’s many benefits, its practice can be difficult to sustain. So many of us are trained to notice what is broken, undone or lacking in our lives. And for gratitude to meet its full healing potential it needs to become more than just an empty word that is tossed around occasionally. We have to learn a new way of looking at things, a new habit, a whole new outlook on our life. And that can take some time.

That’s why practicing gratitude makes so much sense. When we practice giving thanks for all we have, instead of complaining about what we lack, we give ourselves the chance to see all of life as an opportunity and a blessing.

Remember that gratitude isn’t a blindly optimistic approach in which the bad things in life are whitewashed or ignored. It’s more a matter of where we put our focus and attention. Pain and injustice exist in this world, but when we focus on the gifts of life, we gain a feeling of well-being. Gratitude balances us and gives us hope.

There are many things to be grateful for: early spring flowers, colourful autumn leaves, legs that walk, friends who listen and really hear, chocolate, fresh eggs, warm cosy jackets, ripe tomatoes, clean air, the ability to read, roses, our health, butterflies. What’s on your list?

 

Ways to Practice Gratitude

    1. Keep a gratitude journal in which you list things for which you are thankful. You can make daily, weekly or monthly lists. Greater frequency may be better for creating a new habit but just keeping that journal where you can see it will remind you to think in a grateful way. It helps you to look past the problem in a situation to find the blessing in everything, even if that blessing is a difficult lesson.

      2. Make a gratitude collage by drawing or pasting pictures of things for which you are grateful

      3. Practice gratitude around the dinner table or make it part of your night time routine

      4. Make a game of finding the hidden blessing in a challenging situation

      5. When you feel like complaining, make a gratitude list instead. You may be amazed by how much better you feel

      6. Notice how gratitude is impacting your life. Write about it, sing about it, express thanks for gratitude

      7. Give at least one compliment daily. It can be directed to a person or you could invite someone to share your appreciation of something else – such as “I love how beautiful the autumn leaves are, don’t you?”

      8. When you find yourself in a difficult situation instead of getting angry or fearful ask yourself “What can I learn here? How can I grow from this experience? What is there here that I might later look back on and be grateful for?”

      9. When you’re in a situation that creates negative feelings within you, search for something positive you can focus on instead. For example, instead of “it’s cold and dreary this morning” think of “the fresh crisp morning air clears my head so I can focus better.”

      What are you most grateful for in your life today?

      Please share your thoughts with us in the comments below.Save

      Author’s content used with permission, © Claire Communications

      Disclaimer

      All information and opinions presented here are for information purposes only. They are not intended as a substitute for professional advice offered during a consultation with your health care provider. Do not use this article to diagnose a health condition. Speak to your doctor if you think your condition may be serious or before discontinuing any prescribed medication. Please consult your health care provider before following any treatment suggested on this site, particularly with an ongoing health issue.

      © Catherine Bullard and Happy Holistic Health, 2012. Unauthorised use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Catherine Bullard and Happy Holistic Health with appropriate and specific direction to the original contentSave

      Holistic Health, Natural Remedies & Homeopathy

      Natural Cures For Winter Coughs, Colds And Flu

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      Winter’s here and with that comes coughs, colds, and flu. As the air crisps and the autumn leaves finish you need to consider whether you’re well enough to get right through winter without falling victim to winter illnesses. And if you’ve already had a few sniffles, you can be certain the answer is “no”.

      If you haven’t already prepared yourself to weather winter natural remedies can support you in best health and wellness. But you need to act now before winter takes hold. These natural remedies for coughs colds and flu will help you through without getting too sick.

      PREVENT WINTER ILLNESS

      Along with morning mists and cold air come winter illnesses, and many have already fallen victim to them. When you feel terrible it’s natural to think you’ve caught the flu. Although only about 20% of viruses that look and feel like flu actually are, it doesn’t stop the others from being downright unpleasant and highly contagious.

      Preparing for winter should begin with a careful plan to strengthen your immune system. Ideally, you’d start it at the end of summer when the weather first cools. But if you’re unprepared and have already had a taste of the winter illnesses that lie ahead you can use these tactics to help you get through with minimum impact.

      Over-the-counter cold and flu medications make you feel better because they suppress symptoms for a while. But they don’t actually make you well any faster. For that you need to look at other options.

       

      NATURAL COLD AND FLU PREVENTION

      There are many awesome natural remedies for coughs colds and flu that effectively treat winter illness. But they’re even more effective if you first fix bad lifestyle habits first.

      Sleep

      Good sleep is the most important lifestyle factor for glowing health. Adults need seven to eight hours uninterrupted sleep every night. It’s vital to develop regular sleep habits because a healthy immune system is the direct result of sufficient quality sleep.

      Your sleep environment is crucial. Most people know they shouldn’t use their electronic devices before bed, but few actually stop. Using devices an hour or less before sleep is like having someone stand beside your bed shouting “stay awake”. They prevent good sleep.

      Creating bedtime rituals contributes to better slumber. Declutter your bedroom. Introduce relaxation practices before bed. Don’t go to bed with a full stomach or hungry.

      Hygeine

      You know to wash your hands often during flu season. When someone with a cold or flu touches their keyboard, phone, or a glass the virus spreads onto the surface. Hours later the virus can still linger and be transferred to you when you touch the same surface.

      Exercise

      Keep up exercise through winter changing it to suit the season. Slow gentle exercise and stretching helps move lymph fluid through your body to remove waste from the cells. Aerobic exercise increases your body’s natural virus-killing cells. But don’t exercise when you get sick.

      Foods

      Sugar and grain weaken the immune system. Your immune system is compromised by 50% for up to four hours after eating sugar.

      Supplements

      Some supplements benefit the immune system and can help prevent colds and flu.

      Vitamin D

      Vitamin D produces antimicrobial peptides in your body to kill viruses and bacteria. Many people are deficient in this crucial vitamin particularly in winter. Vitamin D is sourced from sunlight so it’s common for your levels to drop dramatically when sunlight is scarce or weak over winter.

      Zinc

      Strong immunity depends on good levels of the trace element zinc, but many people are deficient. Zinc increases production of white blood cells to fight infection. Low zinc levels leave you much more susceptible to infection.Save

      Vitamin C

      Vitamin C is an antioxidant that provides your immune system with extra power to fight off viral illness. Lemons, limes, oranges, red pepper and broccoli are all good sources or take a daily supplement.

      Garlic

      Garlic contains allicin, a broad-spectrum antimicrobial often referred to as natures antibiotic. It needs to have a strong garlic odour for it to work properly.

      Probiotics

      Studies show that taking lactic acid bacteria long-term can protect against flu infection. Begin well before winter.

      Homeopathy

      There are many homeopathic remedies for fast relief of coughs, colds and flu symptoms. While you can buy combination remedies from health food stores, the most effective homeopathic remedies are individually matched to your specific unique symptoms. See below for more.

      Herbs

      The herb Echinacea helps fight infection, and is most effective during the first twenty-four hours of your illness. Goldenseal inhibits the formation of mucous. Olive Leaf extract strengthens the immune system. It contains the antioxidant oleuropein which is anti-bacterial, antiviral and anti-inflammatory.

      If You Still Get Sick…

      If you are unfortunate and still get sick in spite of taking precautions your body is telling you to slow down. Falling ill is a sign your immune system is compromised and needs support. Your body needs time and rest to recover. Before continuing to soldier on at work decide whether going to work means spreading germs through your whole workplace.

      Prevent Winter Ailments & Recover Fast

      • Don’t keep going. Allow your body to rest.
      • Drink water, and then drink some more.
      • Powdered Vitamin C in juice or water is easier to swallow than tablets. It soothes sore throats as it passes over the inflamed mucous membranes.
      • Add freshly cut ginger, lemon and honey to hot water for a healing drink. Ginger helps break down and expel mucous, lemon is high in vitamin C and honey is an antibacterial and antiviral which soothes sore throats.
      • Only take warming foods and drinks. Cold food and drink weakens your immune system and can lead to a worse cough.
      • Hot baths followed by wrapping well can help sweat the virus out of your system. Don’t wet your hair. If you’re suffering from aching muscles add 1 – 2 cups of Epsom salts to ease muscular pain.
      • Avoid dairy, wheat, eggs and bananas which are all mucous forming.
      • Avoid sugar which compromises your immune system

        Homeopathy For Coughs, Colds & Flu

        Many excellent homeopathic remedies relieve coughs, colds and flu. They are virtually free of side effects, are non-addictive and safe when used within homeopathic prescribing guidelines, Homeopathic remedies work at the level of the immune system and can affect your overall health. Here are just a few.

        Homeopathic Remedies for Colds

        Aconite

        Aconite is for early stages of colds and flu. Take in the first 24 hours after the onset of the illness as after this it’s unlikely to be useful. Symptoms appear suddenly after exposure to cold, dry winds or after getting chilled. A high fever alternates with chills. The face is warm and flushed, with constricted pupils. A person needing Aconite is fearful, anxious and very restless.

        Allium cepa

        Allium cepa is a great remedy for a common cold with eyes and nose that stream. The eyes are red and smart with lots of bland tears. The nasal discharge is watery and profuse and burns the skin below the nose. There can be much sneezing especially when coming into a warm room. This person always feels better in the fresh air.

        Pulsatilla

        When Pulsatilla is needed the nose blocks in the evening or in a warm room. Nasal catarrh can be thick or watery, and yellow or yellow-green colour. There may be inflamed eyelids with a thick discharge from the eyes. Taste and smell may be lost. This person is markedly better in the fresh air and for cold applications. They are much worse getting hot, when they lie down, or in a warm room which can cause sneezing. Their mood may be tearful, affectionate – even clingy, and they have a strong desire for company.

        Natrum muriaticum

        There will be profuse watery nasal discharge like raw egg white and violent sneezing when Nat mur is needed. The eyes are sore and sensitive to light. Patients feel worse in the sun and in warm stuffy rooms and better in the open air.

        Homeopathic Remedies for Coughs

        Spongia

        A great remedy for dry, irritating, spasmodic coughs with great dryness of air passages. The throat is dry and constricted and breathing rasping and wheezy. There’s very little expectoration which tastes salty. This person is worse in a warm room and from talking. They’re better for swallowing, warm drinks, and for sitting up and bending forward.

        Rumex crispus

        Rumex has an incessant hoarse, barking cough that comes in paroxysms. They feel like there’s a crumb stuck in their throat which tickles. The cough can prevent sleep and is so affected by cold air they must put their head under the bedclothes to stop.

        Antimonium tart

        The Antimonium cough is one of cold, damp weather. It’s wet and rattling in the chest or larynx, but unproductive. Respiration is difficult and is relieved by expectoration. There’s marked respiratory distress requiring use of the accessory respiration muscles. They are worse in the evening and when they lie down but are better if they sit erect.

        Arsenicum album

        This dry, wheezy cough comes on after midnight. Patients find it difficult to lie down and are fearful they will suffocate. There’s burning pain in the chest or even a darting pain in the upper lung. Respiration is wheezing. They may feel burning heat all over and at the same time be very chilly. They need to be wrapped warmly, but prefer their head open to fresh air. Someone needing this remedy feels exhausted and very restless, often fiddling with the bedclothes. They’re worse from cold in any form and better from heat and warm drinks.

        Hepar sulph

        A dry, hoarse cough comes on after exposure to cold, dry winds. The voice is hoarse or even lost. They will cough whenever any part of their body gets cold or is uncovered, especially from a draft of cold air under the duvet. A useful remedy for croupy barking coughs. They’re much worse in cold, dry air and better in warm, moist air.

        Homeopathic Remedies for Flu

        Oscillococcinum

        This is the number one homeopathic remedy for flu. If taken at the onset of flu it reduces the duration and intensity significantly. It’s indicated for symptoms of flu including fever, chills, aches and pains. Take it as soon as you show any sign of getting the flu. Once flu has become established you may need a different remedy.

        Gelsemium

        This type of flu develops slowly and creates a feeling of fatigue and great heaviness. Everything feels heavy, even the eyelids. Limbs tremble and there’s a feeling of great unsteadiness. Shivering and chills are felt up and down the spine, without perspiration. There may be a headache like a tight band right around the head. The person feels dull and very sleepy with concentration difficult. They are dry but not thirsty. They generally feel worse mid-morning and when the weather changes from dry to cold and wet. Strangely they feel better after urinating, from stimulants like alcohol, or in the open air.

        Eupatorium perfoliatum

        This remedy is needed when severe aches and pains spread to the bones as well as the muscles. Even the eyes ache. There’s a chill followed by sweating. The head may throb and feel like tight pressure on the whole skull. The face is red and congested and the person is very thirsty. They feel worse if they move, outside in the open air, or from 7-9am. They’re better from rest or warmth, and everything except the headache is better after perspiring.

        Baptisia

        Baptisia is a good remedy for gastric flu with vomiting and diarrhoea. It comes on suddenly with high fever and profuse perspiration. They have an intense thirst. The muscles are very sore. This person is quite delirious with confused ideas. They feel as if their limbs are in pieces and scattered all over. They look dazed and sluggish, even falling asleep while talking. Their face is dull and red. They are worse in humid heat and indoors.

        These are just a few of the more common homeopathic remedies for these ailments. If these don’t fit your symptoms consult a Homeopath for a fast relief remedy expertly matched to your symptoms.

        Nurture Yourself

        Remember once you start to feel better you are more vulnerable than normal and so you need to take things easier for a while. Cut back your schedule and keep your stress levels down to prevent any relapse. Be kind and allow yourself some self-care.

        Disclaimer

        All information and opinions presented here are for educational information only and are not intended as a substitute for professional advice offered during a consultation with your health care provider. Do not use this article to diagnose a health condition. Speak to your doctor if you think your condition may be serious or before discontinuing any prescribed medication. Please consult with your health care provider before following any of the treatment suggested on this site, particularly if you have an ongoing health issue.

        © Catherine Bullard and Happy Holistic Health, 2016. Unauthorised use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Catherine Bullard and Happy Holistic Health with appropriate and specific direction to the original content

        Source Articles

        http://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/blue-light-has-a-dark-side

        www.sandiegohomeopathy.com/downloads/CoughsColdsFlu.pdf

        https://catherinebullard.com.au/are-you-well-enough-to-weather-winter
        Uncategorized

        8 Methods of Grounding and Connecting to the Earth’s Frequencies

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        Grounding is one of the most simple and fundamental ways to rebalance your energies. Walking barefoot on the earth immediately makes you feel whole again, but it isn’t the only way to ground yourself and bring you back to centre.  Here are eight ways to ground yourself with thanks to Adam Lanka of healthy holistic living

        simple ways to ground yourself

        The term grounding means connected to the Earth, and it is one that spans numerous different cultures, traditions, and spiritual practices. While it is associated with feelings of balance, connection, centeredness, sinking, being anchored and in the flow, I would like to explore the greater implications of what is happening every time you go outside and relax into nature.

        All species upon our planet are shaped by the forces and presence of the Earth and the cosmos, and as such this connection is deeply inherent to a sustainable state of well-being. The Earth, as an organic and inorganic system, is constantly bathing all life on the planet with its highly ordered and coherent electromagnetic field. The natural tendency of an organism is to couple with the Earth’s energy field, and come into a state of mutual cooperation and harmony with its external environment, finding its niche and its place within a system.

        What we need to understand is that all systems strive to achieve, return to, or maintain a state of pure coherence. In every single moment, whether one is aware of it or not, we are taking part in a constant process within our universe, coupling with other energy fields and finding some sort of balance within this space. This happens everywhere, with life within an ecosystem, when you sit down in your favorite chair and watch television, when you play with animals, or when you say hello to your neighbor. We are constantly interacting with the energy fields all around us in varying degrees and to varying results.

        The more organized or coherent these fields are, the more effectively and efficiently energy can be transferred to both stimulate and enhance the lesser organized of the two. Of utmost important to all life on our planet, the Earth’s field has a normal lower range of ~7.8 Hz, also known as the Schumann Resonance.

        This natural rhythm is found in multiple places within the human organism, and it is inherent to functioning at our most efficient, sustainable, and coherent state. The human body cavity resonates at 7.8 Hz. Our Alpha and Theta brain waves both border the frequency of 7.8 Hz. These brain waves are associated with insight, intuition, inspiration, meditation, relaxation, and calmness.

        Thus, the Earth resonates with our biological system, bringing us into a state of greater coherence. This enhances our mental, emotional, and physical wellbeing. When grounded, organisms operate more efficiently and harmoniously and can more freely access the Earth’s stabilizing electromagnetic energy to increase vitality, health, wellness and enjoy a prolonged lifespan.

        This is ancient knowledge that is expressed in widely different cultures, traditions, and spiritual practices, and it all draws from our connection to the Earth. It is then important to become aware that the dominant Western paradigm in the world at the moment is largely set up to alienate people and hinder this connection to the Earth.

        The economic system is set up to keep people inside generating information, in large buildings of stone and metal that disconnect us from the Earth. We surround ourselves with machines and technology that constantly bombard us with electromagnetic radiation, i.e. telephones, computers, televisions, etc. We are sold pieces of insulating plastic or rubber to put onto our feet when we are out in nature, hindering the flow of energy from the Earth up into our physical vessel. Pollution and invasive procedures within the Earth distort the electromagnetic field.

        Thankfully, we can cultivate our connection to the Earth and facilitate a more coherent, healthy state of being through the practice of grounding. Below are detailed many different methods that one can utilize to bring the human organism back into harmony with the Earth’s energetic field:

        Simple Ways Of Grounding Yourself

         

        simple ways to ground yourself

        1. Go Outside

        Be out in nature; go to a field, a mountain, a swamp, a river, a stream, a beach, the ocean. Get out of the office, off of the couch. Be in the presence of nature, be in the presence of life.

        2. Walk in Nature Barefoot

        Enjoy some quality barefoot time. The human species has thrived for thousands of years barefoot, let’s take the time to return to this practice in our daily life.

        3. Hug a Tree

        It’s science; go couple and touch another organism to balance your energy field.

        4. Use Grounding Technology

        Many people and companies have developed technology to ground you and replenish your body with negative ions. The Earth is the largest electron donor and receiver, and the ideal PH of the human body is alkaline to neutral. Germs, bacteria, parasites, viruses have a positive charge and thrive in an acidic environment.

        Using grounding electrodes helps increase the electro-negativity of the human organism, making the internal environment more alkaline, which is widely recognized as critical to a healthy immune system.

        Innovative products for grounding the body in unnatural environments like the Earthing mat, or the Earthing sheet from Earthing.com are practical ways to maintain harmonizing electro-magnetic contact with the earth.

        5. Utilize Visualization

        As conscious beings, we can alter and regulate our energy field through our changing emotions, and how we choose to feel. Visualization is an ancient practice that is incredibly effective and can be done in any moment, no matter where you are. Below are a few techniques that are quite effective.

        spiritual grounding

        6. Grounding Chord

        Visualize, see, feel, or simply be aware of the center of the Earth and the free energy that it emits. With your mind and heart, reach down into the core, and pull up a pulsing, twisting chord of energy from the depths of the Earth. Hook this chord onto your root chakra, or sacral chakra as well for women, and feel the immediate connection between you and the Earth as the energy flows through you. You may become aware of a sinking feeling, a tightening and flexing of the perineum and muscles in your groin and butt area. Conversely, you can also flex these muscles and concentrate on sending the chord down into the Earth, as well.

        Practice and repeat this process as often as you need. Experiment with different chords of different colors and thicknesses, and experience the incredibly wide variety of sensations that it will instil in you.

        7. Tree Meditation

        Visualize, see, feel or simply be aware of your body, and become a tree. Feel your feet grow roots that sink down into the Earth and anchor you to it. Feel your legs and thighs become wood as well, as the roots that grow up from the ground encircle and entwine themselves around your legs, and continue to spread up your body. Feel the straightening in your spine as you become a trunk, feel the energy rising from the Earth up into your stomach, into your heart, into your head. Feel your arms become branches that grow, stretch, and reach for the sky, drinking in the light of the sun and changing it into energy. Feel your crown open as it fills with light, which then flows down into your roots and into the Earth.

        8. Mountain Meditation

        Visualize, see, feel, or simply be aware of your body becoming a mountain, turning into stone. We see only the tips of mountains, their roots run deep into the Earth. Feel your legs and lower body anchoring into the bedrock and stone of the Earth, and the feelings of peace and calmness that come with it. Become the base of the mountain as it grows upwards and reaches into the sky. Feel your crown as the top of the mountain, where the Earth and sky meet and mingle; the connection of these two opposite spectrums that are in perpetual balance.

        techniques for grounding yourself

        We have the ability to regulate and change our state of being. While indeed we are a product of our environments, constantly in the presence of other external forces and influences, we always have a choice as to how we choose to feel and how we respond. We have the choice to change our external and internal environment to come into a state of greater harmony and coherence. I invite you to utilize the information and techniques above to increase your coherence, elevate your vibration, and take your power back to be the change in the universe you wish to see.

        Disclaimer

        All information and opinions presented here are for information purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for professional advice offered during a consultation. Please consult with your health care provider before following any of the treatment suggested on this site, particularly if you have an ongoing health issue. 

        Adam Lanka

        Adam Lanka, originally from North Carolina, is a traveling philosopher, energetic arts healer, and physicist. His passion and interest are in bridging the gaps in the dominant paradigm, uniting science and spirituality into one journey of consciousness, and elevating the vibration of humanity. To learn more about Adam, please visit his personal blog, The Wanderlust. Find him on Facebook at Gateway Explorations.

         

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        Happy New Year -Shine On

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        happy new year 2016

         

        Dear Amazing Reader,

        Thank you for stopping by and supporting my blog last year.

        I hope while you were here you discovered much to inspire you, as well as loads of everyday tips to help you live a healthy, happy life.

        May your New Year be filled with inspiration, love, laughter, and many magical moments with friends and family.

        Let’s step forward into the New Year together on the road towards great health and heappiness.

        catherine bullard blog

         

        Stress & Overwhelm

        28 Awesome Ways To Rebalance, Revitalise And Renew

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        Do you feel burned out, run down, and exhausted? That’s no way to enter a New Year! 2015 has been a tough year for many, many people and it’s important to regroup and recharge as we roll on towards the year-end. Because I want to help you stay ahead of your game I’ve put together this list of ways to rebalance and revitalise body, mind and soul so you can be your renewed best, ready for any challenges the New Year throws at you.

        28 ways to rebalance, revitalise & renew you

         

         

        Revitalising yourself has much to do with releasing what no longer serves you and many of these practices involve letting go of the old. With the year drawing to a close it’s the perfect way to say goodbye to the old and make space for all the future holds for you.

         

        REVITALISE YOUR MIND

        revitalise your mind

        1. Know Your Limits And Set Boundaries

        Whether you’re someone who’s driven by a burning passion or like me, fired by curiosity always jumping to the next intrigue, you need to set your boundaries. Establishing boundaries isn’t about limitation. It’s not only to ensure your adrenal glands don’t give up from over-stress, and it’s not about conserving physical energy. Rather it’s about giving you the space and energy to spend more time pursuing those parts of your life that give you joy. When you have strong boundaries you can keep right away from others dramas.

        2. Forgive, Forgive, Forgive

        This is so important. Perhaps the most important step you need to take to revitalize your forgive and let gomind as well as your soul is to let go. If you’ve been hurt by someone in the past and are still carrying that heavy, painful, angry burden it’s now time to release it. Even if they’re not aware they hurt you it’s time to forgive. It’s not about negating what happened, but about you releasing the weight and the toxic, destructive impact anger and resentment have on your body and your soul.

        3. Meditate

        There’s absolutely no question about the benefits of meditating – studies just keep underscoring the many ways it benefits your health and wellbeing. Whether you snatch five minutes in the morning, adopt mindfulness through the day or join a meditation class, it’s simply a matter of finding the form that’s right for you and then sticking to it.

        4. Build Better Relationships

        It’s vital to get out of toxic relationships as they cloud your life with negativity. If you feel it’s too drastic to release them completely start small and schedule a day or a weekend free from all the negative people who drain you – even if you love them. Include anyone who’s quick to criticize or totally self-absorbed.

        5. Get Creative

        When you’re completely absorbed expressing yourself creatively just for fun, whether it’s singing, painting, sewing, gardening or whatever, it’s really difficult NOT to relax and stop stressing

        6. Expand Your Experience

        Challenge yourself by setting a date with get out of your comfort zonejust you to do something outside your comfort zone. Spend time alone discovering your capabilities. Find something that challenges you like hot air ballooning, scuba diving, attending a gallery, or even public speaking. When you challenge yourself you discover how capable you are. You may even find a new interest.

        7. De-clutter Your Space To De-clutter Your Mind

        Clean out the old and make way for the new. And that applies whether it’s material possessions, outdated attitudes or even people. The amazing thing is that when you start to de-clutter on any one level it flows through into all levels of you, the physical, emotional and spiritual. After you clear out the living room you’ll find your thoughts shifting and you may even look at the people in your life with new clearer vision.

         

        REVITALISE YOUR EMOTIONS

        revitalise your emotions

        8. Give Back

        Volunteer – your time, your knowledge or your support. Volunteer at a food truck, a shelter, or anywhere you are reminded of all the blessings you have in your life.

        9. Be Present

        Set aside some time each day for a thought diet. Limit your thoughts to the here and now, focusing only on the present. Forget the past and let the future unfold in it’s own time.

        10. Count Your Successes

        We can be quick to criticize our failings but often completely overlook our successes. Give yourself permission to feel proud of ALL your achievements, no matter how small.

        11. Cry And Release

        If you need to let it all out! cry, and release emotional hurt as well as toxins from your cellsRun a warm deep bath, add some Epsom salts and essential oils and soak. Cry out all the burdens of the last twelve months. Let it all flow until you feel relaxed, lighter and more positive. Emotional crying releases toxins that are byproducts of stress so your body will be cleaner and lighter too.

        12. Create a Worry Time Window

        If you’re someone who worries chances are it keeps you awake at night and stops you enjoying life to the full. Setting aside ten to thirty minutes each morning or night for just “worrying” frees you up for the rest of the day. When you find yourself starting to worry outside this time put the thought aside to revisit at the designated “worry window” time.

        13. Be Honest

        Lying to others doesn’t honour them or you. Allow yourself the gift of honest thoughts and communication with others. Having to keep up a lie is a heavy burden to carry.

        14. Special “Me-Time” Alone

        Time spent with just you is pure gold. Learning to say “no” to others and making space for yourself in your busy life provides an opportunity to heal and revitalize. It not only helps you connect with your inner wisdom more deeply, it also recharges you. Make time for yourself.

         

        REVITALISE YOUR BODY

        revitalise your body

        15. Get Outside and Ground Yourself

        Go outside, take off your shoes and sit or stand on the earth, the grass or in the water to ground yourself. Just being in nature lifts your spirits. Our modern environment has a toxic effect on your body and directly connecting your body to the earth through your feet creates a chemical reaction within your cells that helps rebalance you. Focus on being present and breathe deeply to oxygenate your blood and fire up your brain cells.

        16. Simple New Year Detox

        Instead of vaguely vowing on January 1st to “lose weight”, “eat healthy” or “exercise more”, do a mini detox to help you quickly recover from too many festivities. Set aside a day, weekend, even a week to take a break from alcohol, processed foods and sugar. Plan ahead. Get in fresh fruit and veges, wholefoods or minimally processed foods, or even go totally organic. Drink lots of pure water to flush out the ‘nasties’. Add warm lemon water in the morning. Do whatever you can manage. You’ll feel clearer with more energy.

        17. Reset Your Sleep Clock

        Adults need 7 to 8 hours sleep every night. Having a sleep-in on the weekend doesn’t balance your sleep bank. When you’re chronically sleep deprived your brain stops getting the ‘tired’ messages so you’re not even aware any longer that you need sleep. If you’re not getting at least 7 hours sleep a night your brain needs retraining.

        18. Get Physical

        Research shows we need physical exercise every day. It could be weights, running or a gym workout. Or instead you could do gardening, walking, swimming, tai chi, rope skipping or any other activity you enjoy. I have a really, really long hallway and I love reading. So when the weather’s foul I walk briskly up and down the hall for 30 minutes, reading all the way. Just get active!

        19. Love The Sunmake a daily date with the sun

        Make a daily date with the sun. Not only does it brighten your outlook it also provides you with vitamin D. It’s the only natural source of this essential building block which is required for hundreds of functions in your body.

        20. Drink Up

        Carry a bottle of water with you and sip through the day. You’ll be surprised at how much you manage to drink. Surprisingly when you’re chronically dehydrated your brain mixes up the messages it gets from your cells and tells you “you’re hungry, go eat” instead of “go drink”. Also too many substitute coffee, tea or soft drinks for water, which act as diuretics and deplete your body of moisture.

        21. Eat A Rainbow

        Who doesn’t love a rainbow? eat a rainbowThe colour of fruit and vegetables tells you what it contains. It’s not enough to have one or two, you need the full range. So aim for five or more different colours on your plate to get a broader range of antioxidants.

         

        REVITALISE YOUR SOUL

        revitalise your soul

        22. Practice Gratitude

        Remind yourself of just how fortunate you are and of all the bounty in your life. Keep a Gratitude Journal to record three things you are thankful for each day, no matter how small.

        23. Evict Your Inner Critic

        We’ve all got one, that voice inside our head that’s so quick to point out all the holes in our silence your inner criticplans, to warn us we don’t have what it takes to succeed and to remind us of our past mistakes and failures. I used to call mine “The Committee” because sometimes it felt like a whole group ganged up together to completely overpower me. But you can evict them. If you’re a gentle person bribe that inner critic outside your head, or explain nicely that you’re the boss and have the final word. If you’re a bit blunter you could do as I did. Whenever that “Committee” started criticising I’d jump in with “sit down and shut up” before they could get going. It’s amazing how quickly you can silence the critic simply by deciding that YOU’RE the one in the driver seat who makes all the final decisions.

         

        24. Release Guilt

        Guilt is simply homework from your Inner Critic. When you reclaim control from the critic you don’t have to carry the guilt either. Write down what you feel guilty about, the whole story if you want, and finish it with “I forgive you” (that part’s really important). Next read it out loud. Lastly burn the paper. The three steps of this small ritual each plays an important role. By writing you crystallize the issue, including your forgiveness of yourself. Speaking the words out loud empowers them. Burning the paper symbolically releases your guilt.

        25. Listen With Your Whole Self

        Open yourself to someone trying to tell you something, and listen without any judgement and without giving advice. Don’t relate what they say to your own experiences. In fact just listen, nothing more – unless they ask for your thoughts. Listening without engaging your inner critic or your life story is one of the greatest gifts you can give and nourishes your soul.

        26. Give, And Wish For Nothing In Return

        Cultivate generosity. Giving enriches somebody else’s life. Giving without expecting anything in return also equals deposits in your happiness bank. Passing it forward is one simple way to give. Check The Wake Up Project for mindful living tips, uplifting kindness stories and free kindness cards.

        27. Gain Clarity By Connecting With Inner Wisdom

        Taking time to meditate or pray connect to your inner wisdom to get clarityor any practice that connects with your inner wisdom and develops your spirituality is an investment in defining your purpose and passion. Your inner wisdom is like the GPS for your life and provides you with guidance and clarity about who you are and your life path.

        28. Ditch “Rule” Words

        Words like should, must, don’t or can’t are all ‘rule words’ that indicate somebody else’s expectation of you. Ditch rules set by others that contain any of these or similar words. When you set new standards that honour your needs and rights you reinforce your personal boundaries.

        What other methods do you use to recharge and revitalise yourself?

         

        Disclaimer

        All information and opinions presented here are for information purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for professional advice offered during a consultation. Please consult with your health care provider before following any of the treatment suggested on this site, particularly if you have an ongoing health issue.

        Source articles

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        Go Nuts For Almond Milk

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        There are many reasons why someone may turn to almond milk. Increasingly it’s seen as a tasty substitute for cow’s milk for those with dairy intolerance or allergy. But even without having dairy intolerance many people now wish to lighten the load placed on their digestive system when they eat animal foods including dairy products , and so turn to cow’s milk alternatives. Many others drink almond milk simply for its delicious taste, at the same time reaping the health benefits offered by this vibrant nut.

        go nuts for almond milk

        Nuts are little powerhouses of healthy goodness. Quick, easy and delicious they are power-packed with wonderful health benefits. While each type of nut differs in it’s composition and thus its particular health benefits, all have much goodness to offer and almonds are no exception.

         

        Health Benefits Of Almonds

        All nuts contain protein, and fibre but are low in carbohydrates. They also contain healthy fats. Many studies have found that in spite of the high fat content nut consumption is linked to a lower risk for heart disease.

        Almonds are high in monounsaturated fats, which is also the fat found in olive oil. However, almonds come in with a better ratio of protein to fat than other nuts. Many hold almonds in very high esteem and regard them as ‘nut royalty’.

         

        Almonds For Heart Health

        Monounsaturated fats are great for your heart health, helping to reduce cholesterol levels by reducing LDL, the ‘bad’ cholesterol. Some studies have shown that high levels of LDL cholesterol in patients were reduced with a diet containing almonds and other nuts.

        The Nurses Health Study showed that a 30% reduction in heart disease risk could be gained by replacing carbohydrates with an equivalent amount of nuts. A 45% decrease in risk could be gained by substituting the monounsaturated fat in nuts for saturated fats in meat and dairy products.

         

        Antioxidant Rich Almonds

        Almonds are loaded with antioxidants which prevent oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Oxidative stress damages cells and contributes to many serious illnesses including cancer.

        Most of the antioxidants in almonds are found in the brown skin and eating nuts with the skin still on delivers double the antioxidants and double the protection for your cells.

        One of these cell-protecting antioxidants is vitamin E. In fact almonds are the best source of Vitamin E of any food. This antioxidant is particularly good for skin protection helping to improve its conditon and appearance and protect against the effects of aging.

         

        Almonds Contain Magnesium

        Many people are deficient in the fundamental mineral magnesium and this causes widespread health problems as magnesium is required for many, many body processes. Almonds are a great source of this vital mineral and just 60 grams of almonds, one small handful, provides almost half the recommended daily magnesium intake.

        Studies show that improving magnesium deficiency can reduce hypertension and LDL cholesterol levels. Including almonds in your diet supports the health of your  cardiovascular system.

        It’s common for diabetics to have magnesium deficiency. High magnesium foods like almonds may be helpful in preventing blood sugar disorders such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabets and metabolic syndrome.

         

        Omega 6 In Almonds

        Many people consume far too much omega-6 every day and not enough omega-3. The western diet provides a really unbalanced omega-6 to omega-3 ratio. It should be about 4:1 but in many cases it’s more like 10:1 or even 30:1 skewed to omega-6.

        Unlike walnuts which contain good amounts of omega-3 almonds are high in omega-6.

        Eating lots of almonds could become a huge problem if you’re not regulating how much omega-6 you get from other foods, notably vegetable oils containing polyunsaturated fats.

        But almonds contain monosaturated fats which are a far healthier option than the polyunsaturated fats of vegetable oils. Sourcing the omega-6 essential fatty acids you require from almonds rather than less healthy foods is a smarter decision. Almonds are a great health food as they also contain a range of other wonderful nutrients.

        Embrace almonds as part of a healthy eating plan. Consider your diet as a whole and replace unhealthier components with nutrient-rich almonds.

        Just 30g or a small handful, of almonds contains:almond nutrients

         

         

         

         

         

         

         

        DIY ALMOND MILK

        Home made almond milk is a wonderful substitute for dairy milk. It’s nutritious, being high almond health benefitsin protein and of course healthy fats. It also contains fibre, Vitamin E, the minerals phosphorous,  magnesium, copper, selenium and calcium, the amino acid tryptophan, as well as flavonoids.

        In addition it has no cholesterol.

        It has a slightly nutty taste and a creamy texture and the flavour is lighter than soy or rice milk.

        Of course almonds are a tree nut so almond milk isn’t for anyone with nut allergies.

        Almond milk is widely available through supermarkets as well as health food shops, but is pricey and unfortunately some brands are sweetened.

        A number of brands have a very low percentage of almonds in them, which greatly reduces their nutrient value. By making your own nut milk you can increase the nut content and so the nutrients, dramatically.

        Almond milk is good cold, in tea or coffee, smoothies and can also be used for cooking items like cakes or soups. I use it, but in small quantities and so often end up throwing quite a lot out from the bought boxes, which means making my own is a great option.

         

        Easy Almond Milk Recipe

        Almond milk is really easy to make and the best thing is you can make it in just the quantity that you need, so no problem with it spoiling.

        It’s simple to adjust the recipe to suit your own personal preferences. For instance, you can flavour the milk with spices to suit your taste, a great option if you’re creating a dish where you want a specific flavour.

        Plus, you’ll have the leftover pulp to use in cooking, so you get the health benefit of every part of the almond.

        Here’s how you make it:

        • Soak 1 cup of fresh, raw almonds in filtered water overnight. Make sure there’s extra water to allow room for swelling.
        • Remove the almonds from the water.
        • For a less gritty texture, remove the skins. If you want a richer flavour toast the skins lightly.
        • Place the cup of almonds in a blender with 2 cups of filtered water and blend on high speed until creamy.
        • Add flavouring like cinnamon, honey, cardamom, saffron or a pinch of sea salt and then blend again, if you like.
        • Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or a fine strainer to separate the pulp.
        • You can drink it immediately or for a creamier version, leave it covered in the fridge overnight. It keeps in the fridge for up to a week.
        • The remaining pulp can then be roasted dry and stored in a jar to use as almond flour.
        • Or you could place the almond skins and the pulp in cheesecloth to use as an invigorating body scrub.

        almonds

        Disclaimer.

        All information and opinions presented here are for information only and are not intended as a substitute for professional advice offered during a consultation. Please consult with your health care provider before trying any of the treatment suggested on this site. 

         

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        Natural Remedies For Head Lice

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        Another school term has started and with that comes the re-appearance of the head lice plague. The blight of every school mum, head lice provide a never-ending battle for parents. What do you do when you get that call from school “Your child has lice?” If you’re a health conscious parent you’ll look for a natural alternative to the noxious poisons found in insecticide based head lice shampoos and lotions.

        natural remedies for head lice

        Dangers Of Head Lice Shampoo

        Here’s a toxic alert! Skin can readily absorb any product that’s applied to it. Once absorbed it travels to your bloodstream and throughout your body causing toxic effects.

        There’s agreement amongst experts that absorption of toxins through the skin is more dangerous than through the mouth. When toxic substances are ingested they are broken down and often detoxified by the liver and kidneys. When they’re absorbed through the skin they travel straight into the blood stream without being broken down first, carrying the full toxic load with them.

        One study found that some toxins were absorbed more easily through hairy skin than hairless skin. This makes one wonder whether higher levels of pesticides are being absorbed through the scalp from head lice shampoos and lotions than is expected. Are the toxin levels being absorbed becoming critical?

        Apart from the dangers of absorbing the toxins into your body, the chemicals in the shampoo can also irritate the skin especially if the skin is sensitive, as in a child, or if it has any breaks in it.

        The chemicals in head lice shampoo can also irritate the eyes.

        All insecticidal shampoos and lotions sold in Australia must be registered with the Therapeutic Goods Act (TGA) to ensure they comply with safety standards and are effective.

        But although deemed safe many of these lotions and shampoos containing pesticide can be harmful to children. Because children’s bodies are much smaller than adults the amounts of toxin in the products can have more impact on their small bodies.

         

        Insecticide Shampoos Don’t Always Work

        Lice often become resistant to insecticides and many parents find that insecticide shampoos and lotions don’t kill the lice. Repeated unsuccessful attempts to get rid of the pests leaves your child exposed to higher doses of poison without solving the problem.

        If you’re in any doubt you need to ask yourself whether the pesticide based shampoos are worse than the problem?

         

        Natural Alternatives To Head Lice Shampoo

        While head lice don’t carry and spread disease like some other pests, they are none-the-less a real problem.

        So how do you beat the problem without poisoning your child?

        There are a few alternatives to toxic insecticide treatments. Simply by diligently combing conditioner through dry hair with a metal lice comb you can rid the hair of lice and nits. But it can take a number of attempts. Conditioner stuns the lice for about 20 minutes so they can’t crawl around and if you are quick you can comb them out.

        But even more effective is to use conditioner in conjunction with an essential oil mixture.

        Some essential oils are very effective at getting rid of lice and nits. Plus the mix can be added to a spray bottle of water and used daily to prevent further infestation.

        An essential oil mix first stuns the lice just as conditioner does, but unlike conditioner it also kills them. Lice attach the nits, or eggs, to the hair shaft where they stick like glue and are normally very difficult to dislodge. The great thing about the essential oil mixture is it loosens the nits making them easy to comb out and dispose of before they hatch into nymphs.

         

        Essential Oil Head Lice Treatment

        A number of essential oils are suitable in the battle against head lice but some, like tea-tree oil which is very effective, can be too strong for children’s sensitive skin.

        These ones are more gentle but powerful enough to do the job.

        Head Lice Treatment Recipe

        To 75ml base oil (coconut is great, or sweet almond) add:essential oil treatment for head lice
        Lavender essential oil – 25 drops
        Geranium essential oil – 13 drops
        Rosemary essential oil – 25 drops
        Eucalyptus essential oil – 12 drops

        Makes 2-3 treatments. Store any left over in a glass bottle, amber is best.
        Be sure to use high quality essential oils. Do not use fragranced oils.

        Method

        Massage the oil mix through dry hair and leave for two hours.
        Shampoo out adding the shampoo BEFORE wetting your hair.
        Wet hair and wash.
        Put conditioner on hair and comb through with a metal lice comb. This makes it easier to remove all the creatures. To make certain you get all the lice and nits divide the hair into segments and thoroughly comb through each section.
        Repeat a few days later to remove stray lice from any missed eggs.
        This formula can also be added to distilled water and sprayed over your hair each morning as a lice deterrent.
        For really bad infestations the treatment can be repeated every 3 days over a few weeks if needed.
        Be generous with the amount of oil used. The bottle will do 3-5 treatments depending on the amount of hair you have.

        The extra bonus is your child’s hair will smell beautiful.

        Remember to take all the usual precautions: tell your child’s school, tie back hair, don’t share brushes and combs, run bed linen and hats through a hot washer dryer to kill any stray lice and nits.

        Head lice infestations are a fact of school life. Check your child’s head regularly. If your child starts scratching don’t panic. Get to work fast to eradicate the pests with the least toxic impact for your child.

        natural treatment for head lice

        Disclaimer

        All information and opinions presented here are for information purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for professional advice offered during a consultation. Please consult with your health care provider before following any of the treatment suggested on this site, particularly if you have an ongoing health issue.
        Source articles
        http://cincovidas.com/toxic-alert-skin-can-absorb-what-we-apply-to-it%E2%80%94including-cosmetic-chemicals
        http://raisingolives.com/oils/treating-lice-naturally-with-essential-oils

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        Gratitude. Generosity. Growth.

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        Is your life happy? Do you remember to enjoy the small things in life? Do you express your gratitude every day?

        In order to live a healthy happy life requires you to address all aspects of your life and surroundings. You need to go much further than just getting fit or changing what you eat. Obviously fitness and diet develop the physical body. But they also develop the mental and emotional bodies to a degree through the endorphins released through exercise, and by creating a better chemical balance in the brain through good food choices.

        gratitude generosity growth

         

        The mind-body connection is well recognized and it’s known your emotional state affects how healthy your body is.

        Holistic growth involves changing and improving on all levels – spiritually as well as physically and mentally. It requires you to be constantly aware and willing to make changes in attitudes, to practice mindfulness, to cultivate gratitude and to open your heart with generosity.

        To develop your spirituality you don’t need to follow a religion although you can if you prefer. But you do need to develop a close and meaningful relationship with your essential inner self. You could go and undertake something quite life-changing such as Vipassana to achieve this, but often it’s by simply looking at the things in your life differently that you create the biggest impact, and you can do this in small ways every day.

        Becoming connected to the world directly around you in a positive and meaningful way can create a snowballing effect that leads to big changes within. By developing and practicing this you also show love and care for yourselves. You can do this by:

        • showing love and care for the Earth in your own neighbourhood
        • appreciating the small gestures of those you cross paths with
        • acknowledging when things fall into place smoothly
        • actually noticing what is going on around you

        The Key

        The key to achieving these grass root changes is in the cultivation of gratitude, which results in you becoming more generous, which then leads to personal awareness and growth. What a great chain of events!

        Gratitude is a funny thing. We are all taught to say please and thank you but not often how to feel and express gratitude for our life.

        I remember teaching this basic social grace to my son when he was 3 years old. As he and his little friend were exchanging Christmas gifts the boys were told to “shake hands” to show gratitude and thanks. They looked at each other bewildered for a moment and then both started shaking their hands wildly in the air around themselves.

        But gratitude is not just about saying thank you for a gift (whether you like it or not). It’s about finding joy in the detail of your life and bringing the focus of your life back to the minutiae around you.

        It’s about bringing an awareness of the continual flow of life and a development of a sense of your connection to all, within.

        It’s about recognizing all the blessings that are a part of each day, the blessings that often get lost in the daily humdrum.

        Gratitude’s about finding joy in the detail of your life.

        Gratitude is about learning to find joy in the detail of your life
        Gratitude’s about finding joy in the detail of life

         

        Living In The Moment

        When exactly is it we first become focused on “keeping your eye on the prize”? I see this as the single most important attitude that undermines the practice of gratitude. We spend our life focused on achieving the promotion, the dream house, cool car, we follow fashion which changes so fast we constantly need more new garments, we work towards the next holiday, beautiful jewelry and on and on and on.

        We’re driven by never-ending striving for what we need to achieve and own, our eyes constantly focused on what’s up ahead, the big prize.

        When we live with this focus we miss the life around us, the little details of our everyday life…we fail to ever live in the moment.

        Living in the moment is what we’ve been told to do in order to know, understand and improve ourselves, but we’re never in the space to achieve it.

        By cultivating gratitude and forcing yourself to bring your focus back from what you desire or want to achieve you start to notice the small things around you, and to find ways to give back to the earth as well as to the people in your life.

        By cultivating gratitude you also cultivate generosity.

        Gratitude Journal

        One way to begin cultivating gratitude is to start a gratitude journal.

         

        Like to know more about keeping a gratitude journal and the benefits of gratitude?

        Continue reading…

         

         

         

        Disclaimer.

        All information and opinions presented here are for information purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for professional advice offered during a consultation. Please consult with your health care provider before following any of the treatment suggested on this site, particularly if you have an ongoing health issue. 

         

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        Natural Remedies & Homeopathy, Nature's Rhythms

        Natural Remedies For Hayfever Relief

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        Spring Has Almost Sprung and that spells bad news for anyone who suffers from hay fever as it means it’s ‘Sneezing Season’ again. Unable to get out and enjoy the beautiful Spring sun, seasonal allergy sufferers following the conventional path can only look forward to being housebound for even longer or taking medications with side effects that really knock them about!

        Natural Cures For Hayfever Relief

        Hay fever results from exposure to pollens released from grasses and other plants, carried through the air, which cause inflammatory reactions on the mucous membranes and affect the immune system.

        With sneezing, itching, runny nose, coughing and congestion, hay fever (or seasonal allergic rhinitis) is enough to ruin anyone’s day. It can affect any of the mucous membranes of the eyes, nose, sinuses, throat and palate, or all of them at once.

        But it doesn’t have to be like this.

        There are many natural remedies including herbs, vitamins, kitchen cures and my favourite, homeopathy, that can effectively knock the symptoms of hay fever on the head by providing natural antihistamines.

        In addition to actual treatments some precautionary practices can minimize the effect of the allergen on your system. Gifting your liver a Spring clean can lessen the allergic effect. Here are tips to help you gently detox your liver without ‘doing a detox’.

        Dandelion seeds

        Some Natural Treatments

        Supplements can improve your response to allergens. Vitamin C and the bioflavonoid quercetin have an antihistamine effect, while vitamin A helps maintain healthy mucous membranes. Studies have shown a link between low zinc intake and higher allergy risk so a zinc supplement may help anyone who falls into this category,

        It’s important with any aggravation of the mucous membranes to reduce the amount of dairy food you eat as it increases the production of mucous and exacerbates congestion. Eat less milk, cheese, ice-cream, cream, yoghurt and butter during hay fever season to keep you better prepared. And watch for “milk solids” often added to processed foods.

        Refined starches also stimulate mucous production and limiting bread and other baked goods can reduce the severity of your symptoms.

        Increasing your intake of omega 3 fatty acids over the season can help decrease the incidence of hay fever as they help lower the amount of inflammatory chemicals produced when you are exposed to an allergen.

        While many alternative treatments, including nutrition and supplements, can alleviate hay fever by strengthening the immune system they don’t always give immediate relief in the moment when symptoms strike. Some can reduce symptoms when taken in mega dosage but often need to be taken in combination with others.

        Air filters can make a real difference by keeping the air inside your home pollen free especially when placed over windows and doors.

        Steaming is an age old practice for breaking up congestion. Add a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil to a bowl of steaming water and with a towel over your head breathe in the eucalyptus-rich vapour to loosen mucous and clear air passages. Tea tree is another suitable essential oil.

        Many herbs including chamomile, stinging nettle, ginger, and butterbur can block histamine and relieve symptoms, but often their effect is limited to just some of your symptoms or they can take time to have an effect.

        In someone already highly oversensitive to plant material herbs may not be a great choice, and may even exacerbate the symptoms. Stinging nettle is one herb commonly used for it’s antihistamine and anti-inflammatory effects. But when I take it internally it causes itching and swelling on my skin. The crude nature of herbs may actually be too harsh for these highly sensitive individuals.

        Homeopathic Ideal Of Cure

        Homeopathy

        Homeopathy can be used for hay fever either preventatively or as a treatment. It has a great track record for the treatment of hay fever with symptoms being switched off almost immediately when the correctly matched remedy is used. I can personally vouch for this.

        In France the most commonly prescribed treatment for hay fever by medical doctors is a homeopathic remedy just because it can be so effective and fast.

        I’m going to introduce you to some of the more commonly used homeopathic remedies for symptomatic relief. These remedies activate the body’s own system of healing. They’re excellent for quickly relieving the symptoms of acute bouts of hay fever when they’re selected to closely match the individual symptoms being experienced.

        Use remedies in 6x, 6c, 30x or 30c potencies, taking one dose every few hours for up to 3 doses. With the right remedy symptoms should improve after the first or second dose. If symptoms haven’t improved after the third dose it means you’ve selected the wrong remedy, so go back and again match the remedy picture to your symptoms for a closer match.

        Pay particular attention to what makes your hayfever symptoms better or worse – these are important pointers to the right remedy.

        As always with Homeopathy the remedy picture must match your symptoms for it to work. If none of these remedies match visit a homeopath who can select the right remedy for you from the hundreds of possibilities.

        Allium cepa

        Perhaps the most commonly used remedy for hay fever is Allium cepa (red onion). Use this when sneezing is prominent along with watery eyes that burn and smart. The tears here are non-irritating but the copious watery discharge from the nose is acrid and irritates the skin between the nose and upper lip which becomes red and sore. The nose feels blocked and the sense of smell is gone. The voice may become hoarse. When Allium cepa is called for the symptoms improve outside in the fresh air or in cool air.

        Arsenicum album

        This remedy is very commonly used for hay fever with burning and itching in the throat, nose or eyes. The discharges burn and redden the skin. This person will feel cold and although they want to be rugged up their head clears in cool fresh air. They are sensitive to light.

        Euphrasia

        Euphrasia is needed when the eyes feel swollen and gritty. The copious watery tears are acrid, unlike Allium cepa, and they irritate and burn the skin around the eyes and even the cheeks. There is a watery discharge from the nose which is bland and non-irritating. There may be much sneezing. Symptoms are worse outside in the open air, and also worse from heat or wind. (Notice how the symptoms of Allium cepa and Euphrasia are opposite to help you distinguish which is a closer match)

        Nat mur

        Violent sneezing is a symptom that may call for Nat mur, particularly when it is accompanied by itching and tingling inside the nose. There may be a watery or egg-white like nasal discharge, although not usually at the time of hayfever onset. These symptoms get worse after being out in the sun. Taste and smell are lost. Cold sores may occur at the same time. The person needing Nat mur may feel sad or sorry for themselves and want to be alone, and they feel better outside.

        Nux vomica

        Sore, smarting eyes that are light sensitive call for Nux vomica. The nose feels stuffed up making breathing difficult. There may be a streaming discharge through the day even though the nose feels stuffy. At night the nose dries up. This person feels irritable, even nasty, and chilly. Other people can really annoy them. They may have a headache with the stuffy nose which is made worse from stooping. Their symptoms are worse in dry air and better when the air is damp. These people have a tendency to over work, and may crave coffee to keep them going.

        Pulsatilla

        Congestion is the hallmark of a Pulsatilla picture with thick discharges that are bland (non-irritating) and yellow or yellow green. While there is much nasal discharge in the morning the nose is dry at night. This person feels much better outside in the cold fresh air and considerably worse in a warm stuffy room. They also feel better when they keep moving about. They may be weepy, and children whiny or clingy.

        Sabadilla

        Eyes that water with red burning margins of the eyelids, and lots of watery nasal discharge indicate the need for Sabadilla. There is much sneezing which occurs in spasms, one sneeze after another, and is caused by a tickle in the nose. The sneezing causes the eyes to water. This person is very sensitive to the smell of flowers which may exacerbate the sneezing. The tickle in the throat may be relived by warm drinks. This person feels very chilly, and the symptoms are worse in the open air and better in a warm room.

        Wyethia

        Extreme, even intolerable itching in the nose and throat calls for Wyethia. This is the remedy for severe itching of the upper palate, where the person tries to “scratch” it with their tongue. Often the throat feels swollen, dry or burning, causing a constant need to swallow to moisten it.

        These are just a few of the hundreds of homeopathic remedies used for treating hayfever. If you can’t match one to your symptoms consult a professional for the remedy you need.

        Hay Fever Prevention

        Homeopathic treatment is very effective for preventing, as well as treating, hay fever attacks but it must begin well before the hay fever season. If you’d like to diminish your hay fever in the future begin by selecting the remedy that matches your current symptoms most closely and take it whenever you have an acute attack this season. In about six months visit a professional homeopath who will treat you to improve your resistance to allergens and prevent, or reduce, further attacks in the future.

        I experienced terrible hay fever when I was younger with red, burning, itching, watery eyes. But I haven’t had any for many years after taking preventative homeopathy one winter years ago.

        If you’d like to learn more about using Homeopathy to treat your family’s acute and first aid illnesses why not join my HOMEOPATHY @ HOME Course designed especially for the home prescriber. This fun and information-packed course is totally empowering, and enables you to be ready with the right homeopathic treatment for you and your children need whenever you need relief from an acute illness.

        How do you manage your hay fever? What are your favourite natural remedies for hayfever?

        I hate pollen brooke novak

        Disclaimer

        All information and opinions presented here are for information purposes only and are not intended as a substitute for professional advice offered during a consultation. Please consult with your health care provider before following any of the treatment suggested on this site, particularly if you have an ongoing health issue.

        Source articles

        http://www.naturalnews.com/035367_hay_fever_seasonal_allergies_remedies.html#
        http://homeopathyplus.com.au/hay-fever-help-homeopathic-treatment-and-other-self-help-tips/
        http://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2157014/The-hayfever-treatments-really-work.html
        http://www.naturopathic.org/content.asp?contentid=117