Health
Weight loss plans often include reducing calorie intake, implementing exercise programs and even taking supplements to spring board you to losing unwanted fat; however, there is another important facet to obtaining a healthy body weight. Drinking the right kind of water is a key factor to achieve optimal health and body weight. The highly ionized water product known as Kangen™ “restores your body to a more alkaline state, which optimizes health,” as well as “helps to enhance the process of acid elimination, which causes many to automatically experience weight loss,” according to the Enagic Corporation, manufacturers of the Kangen™ water system.
Kangen water is made by the in home enagic unit that can be purchased through an official Kangen™ Representative. There are several products ranging in price from around $1200 to $4500. And though that sounds like a large amount to pay for a water system, the company claims its value far outweighs any cost, considering the health and beauty benefits it brings the whole family. Additionally, the company offers payment plans for which you can apply.
Many of the distributors will also give you water from their systems to trial until you can purchase one. I’m grateful for the supply of Kangen™ water that my good friend Janet Keller has given me for several months now. She is a Molecular Hydration Specialist and can give you information on the Enagic products and the water (see the references below for a link to her site). I plan to purchase my own unit when the budget allows.
The Weight Loss Plan
Step 1
Read the manufacturer’s instructions for installing the Enagic water system to your kitchen water source. Install as directed to your cold water supply. Push the “Kangen™” button to prepare drinking water at the optimal Ph. level of 8.5 or above, as recommended by Japanese scientists at Shiga University.
Step 2
Weigh yourself and record the number in the journal for a starting point reference. Drink one glass upon rising the first day you begin with the Kangen™ water. Hydrate your digestive system by drinking one glass 30 to 40 minutes before your midday meal. Consume one glass between lunch and one between lunch and dinner.
Step 3
Drink one glass 30 to 40 minutes before your evening meal. Write down your meal and water times for the day, as well as record how you feel physically.
Step 4
Read your journal entries the following day and try to stick to this schedule for the duration of your weight loss program. Keep your consumption of all food drinks consistent, especially your servings of Kangen™ water.
Tips and Warnings
“Consume half of your body weight in ounces of Kangen™ water daily,” suggests Molecular Hydration Specialist, Janet Keller. If you feel bloated or sluggish, cut down your intake by one to two glasses. Drink all water on an empty stomach for best results. Adhering to a low fat diet and doable fitness plan will increase your chances to lose weight with Kangen™ water. Do not use Kangen™ water to take medication, as it may cause some pill types to enter the bloodstream too quickly. Always consult your health care provider before changing your diet, fitness routine or supplement consumption.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
References:
• phdrinkingwater.com: Decreased acidity and weight loss
• “The Body Balance”; Change Your Water Change Your Life ebook; Enagic Corp.; Summer 2006
• Janet Keller; Molecular Hydration Specialist; Indianapolis, IN
Kangenwaterreport.com: More Facts
I was sent this article on candida and thought it had some vital info on treating yeast infections. Check out the links for more tips and resources about candida. Consult your physician if you have unusual vaginal symptoms; they are severe or persist even after treatment.
Fighting Candida
If taking antibiotics concerns you or medical costs are too high, you may want to think about treating your yeast infection naturally. Many essential oils and herbs effectively treat yeast infections. Not only do they treat the acute infection, but they help prevent future outbreaks. Remember to consult with your health care provider before using any natural remedy. You may also want to consider a Candida Cleanse before adding essential oils and herbs to treat yeast problems.
Candida microorganisms are common, and as long as the good bacterium controls the population – there is no problem, however, if the Candida multiplies, a yeast infection can occur. Introducing antibiotics to the system is often a culprit as well as a poor diet. Natural remedies and cleanses are a viable way to keep Candida under control, but dietary changes increase success. The Candida cleanse clears the way for treatment and can be done even when you are healthy or in between infections.
The Cleanse
Step 1: Find a reputable Candida cleanse product. Consider cleaning out your colon prior to starting the Candida program. Candida lives in the intestines, and natural remedies may not have sufficient strength to completely eradicate the colony if there is impacted waste present. Colon cleansing products vary in quality, so do some research. Follow the product recommendations carefully and move on to the Candida cleanse when you finish with the colon cleanse regimen.
Step 2: Use the Candida cleanse product as directed. After two weeks start an anti-fungal remedy. Raw garlic is a natural anti-fungal, as well as olive leaf extract, carrot juice, apple cider vinegar, Caprylic acid.
Step 3: Find a quality probiotic product at your local health food store and follow the recommended dosages. Probiotics help your body build up good bacteria it needs to strengthen the immune system and fight the yeast infection.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
***The content of this post is not intended to replace professional advice from your health care provider. Women’s Life Link, it’s authors, associates, commentators, or linked sites do not claim that any information will diagnose, treat, improve, or cure any disease or condition.
WellnessWednesday
Here at Women’s Life Link we focus on being well, beautiful, and happy. Joining us today for Wellness Wednesday is our own Dr. Lamse. Read on for a few of her marvelous tips and remedies. I recommend that you save this post under favorites or just print it out for quick reference. Be well-be beautiful-be happy!
˜Kellie
Home Remedies: Be Prepared
By Anca Lamse, MD
WELLNESS: being healthy physically, emotionally, mentally, spiritually; feeling good, looking good, smelling good, BEING good!
The Flu
Try to keep at least some of these things in the house, so you can act RIGHT AWAY when the situation arises. If you come down with the flu, for instance, and you feel like you’ve been hit by a truck, you will most likely NOT go to the pharmacy at that time to get oscillococcinum. The remedy works best if you take it right away, when the symptoms first emerge.
Two weeks ago I came home from work, felt GREAT, took a walk. 10 minutes after the walk my muscles and my joints started hurting all of a sudden, and I felt feverish+ had chills. It hit me like a ton of bricks. I took the oscillococcinum, sweated it out that night, and went to work the next day and functioned normally (albeit a bit slower). I felt perfect the following day. It DOESN’T ALWAYS work this way, but it’s worth a try; no side effects! Inexpensive, too!
Using Essential Oils
GLOSSARY: essential oils (EOs): volatile compounds extracted from plants by distillation; can be quite POWERFUL; talk to a professional, if you have not used them before, or if you don’t know much about them. Dilute with vegetable oil if too strong.
- Keep out of reach of children; don’t rub your eyes after touching them without first washing your hands with dish soap.
- Mandarin and other citrus oils (bergamot, orange, grapefruit, lemon, lime) sensitize skin to the sun; do not expose area to the sun for 12-24 hrs after application; that’s why the citrus oils are often more handy in the winter than in the summer.
- I personally love mint-based oils for the summer.
- If you develop a rash, stop using the oil and call your doctor, if rash persists.
Homeopathic Remedies
See Dr. Weil’s post below (and also keep in mind that homeopathic principles were recognized in the Indian medicine for thousands of years, and Dr. Hahnemann from Germany rediscovered it in the 1700s). In Europe homeopathy is very popular, and it is used alongside with conventional medicine. Some argue that the remedies are so diluted, that the beneficial effects are actually placebo effects (they work because the person is expecting them to work). However, homeopathy often works well with children and animals; where is the placebo effect there? Anyway, like all alternative remedies, some people respond better to homeopathy than others.
You may get them at the health food store, and I also carry the most popular ones in my office.
Homeopathic Medicine, by Dr. Weil
Help for Common Ailments
- FLU (sudden muscle and joint aches, +/- chills/fever): oscillococcinum homeopathic remedy, available at most regular pharmacies
- DIARRHEA/food poisoning: charcoal and psyllium pills; may get at the health food store or my office. Take one of each, 2-3 times a day as needed. Do NOT take at the same time with meds/supplements because the meds/supps will not be absorbed. Separate the meds from the charcoal/psyllium by 2-3 hrs or so. Your stool may turn black from the charcoal.
- TUMMY ACHES/INDIGESTION: chamomile tea +/- essential oils. Play music that feels good (usually slow music, but listen to your body). Massage oil on abdomen and take regular, comfortable breaths. There are many choices of EOs for abdominal discomfort. Ginger-based, if you like the smell. Great in the winter, as it’s a warming spice. Peppermint-based, especially in the summer. Sandalwood- or mandarin-based.
- BUG BITES: niaouli- and amni visnaga-based essential oils.
- SMALL BURNS: lavender essential oil, apply 2-3 times a day. Studies have shown that small wounds (such as the patients in the Intensive Care Unit, who had their blood sugar checked every 4 hrs or so) heal faster if lavender is applied. Do not rely on lavender if wound/burn is severe. Make sure your tetanus shot is up to date.
- RESPIRATORY AND SINUS ISSUES: peppermint and eucalyptus-based essential oils for steam inhalation (put 3-5 drops of EO in 1 teaspoon of sea salt; add to 2 cups of hot water); hover over the hot water for 5-10 min twice a day as needed. Be careful NOT to burn your face. Close your eyes, as the EO steam may bother them.
- FEELING BLUE: (depression also needs to be treated by a physician, if severe): neroli EO; citrus (orange i
s perceived as a very bright, ,”happy” oil by a lot of people; bergamot EO (diffusion only, as bergamot is very PHOTOSENSITIZING and you may get SUNBURN IF YOU PUT IT ON YOUR SKIN and then go out in the sun).
- FEELING ANXIOUS: chamomile homeopathic (if you feel irritable, like the person next to you is breathing too loud, maybe? coffea homeopathic if you feel jittery and cannot turn off your mind. EOs: marjoram, may chang, lavender, sandalwood, palo santo.
- GROUNDING: cedar wood-based; you can also hug a tree
- UPLIFTING SCENTS: citrus (orange, grapefruit, lemon, lime) mint- or basil-based. Mandarin, though a citrus, calms you DOWN and is not considered uplifting. I love putting a combo of peppermint/rosemary/spearmint/cardamom EO on a Kleenex in my car, and enjoy it while I’m driving. Quite exhilarating!
- SUDDEN BAD NEWS/GRIEF/TRANSITIONS/BREAK-UPS: Ignatia homeopathic cypress-based EO.
- FEARS/ANXIETY/CLAUSTROPHOBIA: I call the homeopathic Aconite “natural Xanax, or Valium” without the side effects. Again, some people respond better than others to homeopathics.
- MUSCLE ACHES: after physically working unusually hard: Arnica homeopathic. Epsom salts (contain magnesium, don’t use if you have kidney problems) Marjoram-based essential oil bath salts. Marjoram is a great muscle relaxant (skeletal and smooth muscle), so it’s good for uterine spasm during menses, and for the big muscles. Don’t drive while smelling this; it’s very relaxing!
Here’s a few PERFUMERY tidbits, because genuine, unadulterated EOs have therapeutic properties. EOs are also antibacterial to a certain degree; some more than others. So: this is perfume that can be healthier than conventional fragrances.
- FEMININE SCENTS: these may help women feel more attractive: ylang-ylang, jasmine, gardenia. If you like more musky scents, or for evening events: sandalwood, patchouli, ginger-based oils.
- MASCULINE SCENTS: cedar wood, patchouli, sandalwood (musky, spicy scents can be unisex, i.e. both women and men may use them).
I wish you all to feel good, look good, smell good, BE good! This is a topic of great interest. Please don’t be offended if I don’t respond to all of your email questions. If condition persists after you’ve used the remedy, or the condition is severe to begin with, or if you are in doubt AT ALL, please consult your doctor! Respect natural remedies and be safe.
Blessings,
Dr. Lamse
***The content of this article is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your health care provider. Women’s Life Link, its authors, associates, linked sites, and commentators do not claim that any of the content will diagnose or lead to a cure or improvement of any disease or condition.
My Experience with Bio-Communication Testing
I recently visited Dr.Terri Hawkins-Fox for a Bio-Communication assessment. Though I understand the results are not to replace traditional diagnosis, I put great faith in the programs ability to pin-point the body’s weaknesses and determine what it needs in order to be balanced. My first time experience with Terri’s new equipment was nothing less than amazing. After placing my right hand on the metal reader, it was in less than five minutes the printer spit out a lengthy clinical report that included diagrams, explanations of body weaknesses, and details of what products I needed to begin peeling away the layers of imbalance in my body.
Because it’s so important to know where you are when starting a campaign to better health, the program first locates weaknessnes in all areas by giving you a Baseline reading. This crucial data tells your health care provider what she/he needs to know in order to assess you correctly. The report concluded that my body needed to first work on my lungs and something called a miasm, specifically an inflammation miasm. The fact that these two areas popped up did not surprise me as I had spent years in a moldy environment without protection from its affects. The second thing proved that I have been dealing with a genetic weakness in the inflammation department for a LONG time. The miasm has likely caused much of the muscle and joint pain that I’ve suffered with for much of my life.
For 2 months, I have been taking two homeopathic supplements that the program recommended to put over 30 stressors into balance in my body. With much elation, I have noticed an improvement in my lungs, with my vocal range coming back and less pain when I breathe. A success that I needed! With the miasm supplement, I have been feeling a tad sore and achy, “a normal reaction,” says the doc. I am on my way to being free of that burden very soon.
I just had my second appointment with Dr. Hawkins-Fox recently and have been set up with my next 4 areas to work on. I will keep you updated on my progress and the amazing information that the bio-communication technology can give us.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
***The content of this post is not intended to replace professional advice from your health care provider. Women’s Life Link, it’s authors, associates, commentators, or linked sites do not claim that any information will diagnose, treat, improve, or cure any disease or condition.
The Doctor Is In
Today, we have Dr. Anca with us for some insight on the sweetener, Splenda. As you read her take on the widely accepted replacement for sugar and visit the resource Web site she recommends, consider your own nutrition and the amount of sweets or sugar that you consume on a regular basis. Know that excessive craving for sugary foods can be a symptom of many imbalances and conditions. Keeping a food diary will help you recognize any patterns or craving triggers. Take one step today that will bring you closer to true health. Tell us about your efforts.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
The Truth about Splenda
By Dr. Anca Lamse, MD
The New Yorker magazine published an article in 2006 entitled “The Search for Sweet.” In that article, the author describes how this artificial sweetener (Splenda) was initially intended to be an insecticide (it contained chlorine atoms; DDT and other insecticides contain chlorine).
In 1975, the young Indian chemist working with this substance tasted it and found that it was sweet.
(He misunderstood when he was told to “test” it, so he “tasted” it instead.)
You can go to your local library and get the full article, but the few paragraphs below (see link) should give you an idea about what kind of substance Splenda is. After you read it, decide for yourself if you want to eat it.
Stevia is a more natural alternative, but you still should use it in moderation. We simply were NOT meant to eat sweets all day long (fake OR natural).
How much candy do you think the primitive man had available to eat?
Well, our genes have not changed much, so our bodies cannot deal with eating lots of sugar. Diabetes, (which is aging in fast-forward), cancer, and other diseases are more prevalent if we eat too many sweets. The more sweet stuff you eat, the more you crave it. You will not crave it as much if you stay away from it for a few days.
Enjoy the reading.
***The content of this post is not intended to replace professional advice from your health care provider. Women’s Life Link, it’s authors, associates, commentators, or linked sites do not claim that any information will diagnose, treat, improve, or cure any disease or condition.
If you enjoyed this post, you might also like:
Yogurt and High Fructose Corn Syrup
What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You
WellnessWednesday
I’m a firm believer in the body’s ability to heal itself. If any part of you – body, mind, and spirit – is missing an important component to thrive, it will certainly let you know in the fastest way possible. This may include pain, low energy, insomnia, headache, confusion, extreme emotions or any number of distress markers that we usually notice…real quick. The fact is, you can’t ignore any portion of your self if you want to be in top health.
According to Dr. Colbert, MD, author of The Seven Pillars of Health: The Natural Way to Better Health for Life, incorporating the seven core principles (pillars) of health will “liberate” and help you “withstand the storms of life”; such as, “diseases, attacks, and injuries.” A veteran physician for more than twenty-five years, Dr. Colbert bases his practice on the basics of human existence and the regenerative capabilities we all have.
Let’s take a look at the first Building Block of Health: WATER
Numero UNO and one that I will scream from the mountain tops till the day I die: DRINK ENOUGH PURE, CLEAN, ALKALINE WATER…8-10 glasses a DAY, not a week. If you only knew what happens inside your body when you don’t hydrate yourself…OK, I’ll tell you: It goes into “emergency” mode, rationing precious water as though it will never see adequate hydration again. Your body has to keep your vital organs (heart, lungs, brain, liver, kidneys) functioning at their best in order to “save” the body from destruction – our own private FEMA. The result is that any number of “symptoms” appear due to the lack of lubrication in the non-essential parts of the body. Usually not life-threatening but these dehydration side effects are definitely disturbing to your life and happiness.
Acid -vs- Alkaline
Many of you may never heard of the acidic/alkaline factor that governs the chemical make up of our bodies. Here it is is layman’s terms: when your body ingests acidic foods and liquids (including water) the pH level becomes acidic. FYI: the neutral pH factor is 7. Anything under that leads to poor health; anything above leads to better health. Why is acidic bad? The answer is very simple: disease lives in an acidic environment. Yes, disease; the kind that kills and destroys. The good news is that you can change the environment of your body with alkaline foods and water.
Accepting Water’s Life-giving Gift
OK, you now know that you need water, as if you didn’t know that before. Oh, but wait…then why don’t you take advantage of actually drinking enough of it? Good question. I have no answer other than most humans are lazy and won’t do anything they don’t want to do. Having said that, let’s move on. Water The right kind of water has the potential to literally change your life. By ingesting special alkaline versions of the most important thing to human survival, we can create paradise for our body systems…well, an oasis at least. Companies like Egnatic, makers of the Kangen water system, have decades of research behind the claim that the consumption of their alkaline water can “help eliminate toxins, hydrate more cells, and provide an easy source of antioxidants” and thus bringing better health.
Though the Kangen systems are pricey, “consider the cost of medical care, prescriptions, surgery, and what you pay for bottled water on an annual basis,” said Kangen distributor, Janet Keller, as she brought me my first four gallons of the converted water she got from her personal in home system. Yes, I’ve been drinking it for well over a month now and have had some remarkable results. Inflammation in my elbow from overuse (blogging) has since disappeared, I’m sleeping better, and have not had a recurrence of the Chronic Daily Headache that plagued me for years. I can’t say for sure that the changes were completely due to the change in water, but it’s fair to say that it had something to do with it.
If you would like more information about alkaline drinking water or the Kangen system, contact Janet Keller at: skeller154@aol.com or visit the Web site, www.KangenCleansingWater.com.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
***Because we are Amazon Associates, should you plunk around on the link for Dr. Colbert’s book, and decide to buy it, we will happily receive some coinage from the Great Wizard of Oz…er, Amazon. Thanks for your support.
***The content of this article is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of your health care provider. Women’s Life Link, its authors, associates, linked sites, and commentators do not claim that any of the content will diagnose or lead to a cure or improvement of any disease or condition.
If you liked this article, you may also enjoy the following:
Getting Healthy But Feeling Bad
The First Five Things You Need for Health
WellnessWednesday
If we could really understand what our bodies are trying to tell us on a regular basis, we would no doubt be saddened by the message it is sending. Through just being who we are and participating in the activities of our day, we constantly put unneeded pressure and torment on our bones, muscles, and connective tissue. It’s no wonder that conditions like Arthritis, Fibromyalgia, and over use injuries plague our species.
Women’s Life Link contributing author, Dr. Anca Lamse, MD, recently posted a video on Facebook that I found extremely enlightening. The simple movement shown reveals how far we are from what is “natural” and life-giving to our bodies. Just watching it made me feel more alive, calm, and even younger. I hope you find it as helpful as I have in reclaiming comfort and joy in movement.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
Why Am I On Them In the First Place?
“According to a government study, antidepressants have become the most commonly prescribed drugs in the United States. They’re prescribed more than drugs to treat high blood pressure, high cholesterol, asthma, or headaches. In its study, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention looked at 2.4 billion drugs prescribed in visits to doctors and hospitals in 2005. Of those, 118 million were for antidepressants.” (source: CNNHealth.com)
It is no shock that of those millions of patients, many either don’t really need the meds or are being used as “experimental” subjects to determine if the drug will help conditions other than depression. It is in this fact that one has to be careful about not only starting an antidepressant but getting off of one.
Dr. Kelly Posner, assistant professor at Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City, is convinced that the incline in these types of meds is “encouraging” because people are not hesitating to ask their physicians about the sensitive topic of mental health. On the other hand, Dr. Robert Goodman, an internist in New York City, believes that it is the “marketing” of pharmaceutical companies to physicians and consumers that is driving the numbers up. If you think about it, do you remember seeing medication ads on TV and in magazines twenty or thirty years ago?
How Do I Know If I Still Need Them?
The question remains one that first should be addressed to your healthcare provider for your own safety. If and when it is determined that you are physically and mentally in a place to attempt separation from your medication, the method can then be set. Keep in mind that various drugs have criteria for abatement due to the “withdrawal” symptoms that can be mild to life-threatening; this depends on the patient and the medication type.
Think about “why” you were put on the medication in the first place: was it for clinical depression or for temporary mood swings associated with your cycle? Was it a “just in case” approach to smoothing out the rough edges of life? Understanding the seriousness of your condition is the key to successfully discontinuing any type of drug. It may be that you are past a point of grief, unstable events, or other physical condition that pushed you into a temporary form of depression. In this case, you may be ready to change or discontinue use altogether. Knowing your specific body and mental changes is the most important thing you can do for yourself when considering any shifts in your care.
What are the benefits of stopping your antidepressants?
♦ Side effects will go away and bring about a more normal sense of being.
♦ You will no longer have the expense of the drug.
♦ Your kidneys, liver, and other internal organs will be healthier.
♦ You won’t have to consider drug interaction risks.
♦ You will have the opportunity to “feel” what your normal is and determine any life-changes that need to happen.
♦ If you are taking them for a condition other than depression; such as, Migraine, PMDD, chronic pain, etc., you can explore other treatments that won’t tax your system as much.
What are the risks of stopping your antidepressants?
♦ Depression could return.
♦ You could experience withdrawal symptoms that range from mild headaches to seizures depending on the drug and the patient.
♦ If you are not ready to discontinue your meds and do, you could risk your mental health treatment taking months or years longer.
In order to successfully stop any medication, you must always take care in discussing it with the prescribing physician. If you have changed doctors or are seeing a natural physician, transferring records and detailing your symptoms will be helpful. Changing anything that your body is used to will be challenging and, be aware that it may not “feel” good to do so. It could, however, lead you to alternative therapies or drugs that suit your needs more effectively without putting your health at risk. For more information on depression, antidepressants, and alternative treatments, please go to the following Web sites:
***The content of this post is not intended to replace professional advice from your health care provider. Women’s Life Link, it’s authors, associates, commentators, or linked sites do not claim that any information will diagnose, treat, improve, or cure any disease or condition.
Related articles you might enjoy:
WellnessWednesday
Home is a place where dreams are dreamed, relationships thrive, children are reared, and all that really matters transpires as our life journey. I truly believe that making this sacred space more peaceful and harmonious will inspire more of these precious moments. I’ve seen the results in my own home when I’ve paid attention to the energy patterns (positive and negative) throughout.
“Decorating is like music. Harmony is what we constantly strive for. At home, we want a peaceful atmosphere where the objects are the notes and nothing is off-key.” ˜Charlotte Moss, from A Passion for Detail
Last week I touched on a design concept called Elements that I developed with a friend a few years back. I touched on the healing affect of color and lighting – one part of the holistic approach the concept delivers. I’m happy to share another tip with you, as it all works together to create a healthful environment for you and your family.
Bedroom Bliss
As one of the most sacred of spaces, the bedroom has the potential to bring peace and serenity or ill-health and distress. I’m only scratching the surface of how important it is to have balance in this area. Focus on the actual sleeping space of the room first. How does it make you feel? Relaxed. Happy. Stressed. Elements Design is primarily based on emotional response; therefore, it’s important to “feel” into your space.
Ask yourself what it is that brings the “feeling”. If you find something negative, change it. How? If it’s a color that is disturbing, that’s an easy fix. If it’s clutter, clean it up. If it’s mental distraction, replace those items with symbols of peace, nature, love, etc.
The other thing to remember is the purpose of the bedroom. It’s a place of rest, intimacy, solitude, or relationship-building with your significant other. So, what emotions do you want to feel considering the purpose of the room? I see so many examples of master bedrooms that fall short of being a couple’s haven. Here’s why:
1. Having pictures of the children, in-laws, friends, and people other than the couple can put a damper on intimacy. Seriously, how can you get your “groove” on with mom staring at your bare rumpass or the kids smiling down on you from above the bed? You get the picture…pun intended. Instead, place meaningful shots of you and your honey where you can see them from bed. Other relationship boosting photos include, nature, nudes, animals, and inspiring words.
2. Working, exercising, and watching TV are all distractions from sleep and romance. They require a completely different intention and energy to perform, that which confounds your ability to rest and relax. Ideally, the only things you should be doing in bed are sleeping, having sex, or any other peace-giving tasks; such as, reading, meditating or praying.
3. It’s the catch-all for the home. If your bedroom is anything like mine, it can accumulate stuff like a country flea market. The kids leave their clothes, toys, papers, and trash all over the floor, bed, and dresser; the mail piles up on the nightstand; even the books can overwhelm…yeah, all the ones you say you’re going to read but never get around to. Got that pile…
4. Too much arguing and fighting can put a damper on everything life-giving and positive. Try not to talk about money, problems, or negative events while in your bedroom. A good alternative to all the strife is talking about your dreams, times of peace, romantic trips you want to take together.
5. Not enough sensual stimulation in the bedroom can make you feel bored or unfulfilled. Realize your need (and your partner’s) for a heightened experience that involves sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch. This translates to finding ways to bring these elements to your decor. Stimulation, however, needs to be subtle enough that it doesn’t prevent you from sleeping. Soft music, serene colors, gentle aromatherapy, comforting textures, and even the peaceful lulling of hot tea at bedtime can - and will -enhance your sacred space experience.
Remember to work on these changes as you can; don’t feel like you have to do everything all at once…unless you want to. When you complete the transformation of your bedroom, be mindful of how it affects your sleep, love life, health, and emotional state. I’m a believer that when you change your environment, you change your life.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
Other books you might enjoy:
Peaceful Spaces: Transform Your Home into a Haven of Calm and Tranquility
Private Places: Creating a Peaceful Space of Your Own at Home
***Because we are Amazon Associates, if you plunk around on the above book links and decide to buy them, we will be endowed with some pocket change. Thanks for supporting Women’s Life Link.
WellnessWednesday
Welcome to Women’s LifeLink! Just a quick shout out to Tammy at A Mom In Red High Heels;she has posted a site that is donating $20 to the American Diabetes Association when you order flowers for Mother’s Day. Please visit her wonderful site and join her in an effort to wipe out Diabetes.
I’ve been tossing around the question: How long does it take to get healthy? My gut tells me several things immediately; first, it depends on what level of health you are seeking and from what point you are starting. Because there are varying degrees of wellness, we have to pay attention to more specific goals in order to get a clear understanding of our progress.
Setting Goals
By selecting a part of the body or system to work on; such as, your energy level, skin, digestion or memory, you can measure your successes by clearly noticing improvements. With this practice, you can gauge the effectiveness of the changes. God knows we can spend hundreds (even thousands) on supplements, therapies, and diagnostic tests that we really don’t need. Choosing professionally recommended lifestyle and nutritional changes as well as needed therapies is the fastest way to achieve a health goal. This advice can come from your health care provider, books, websites, or from any source that you trust. Just remember to take “one bite at a time”.
Let’s say you have sluggish bowels and want to improve your digestion. What things could you do to help process food more efficiently? Keep in mind, whatever needs your body has can be fulfilled. With each action you take there is a reaction in your body; you are a step closer to the big goal of true health.
You might start toward your goal by drinking more clean, quality water (as I have been…more about that later) and make a huge impact on your internal state without really feeling it. However, give it some time; you will notice an improvement in not only digestion but your skin and vitality. It’s easy to see how just one thing can take you to a new level in many areas – a chain reaction.
I’ve talked before about the most important health practices on this site. I advise you to pay attention to some key elements before embarking on some new therapy or taking endless supplements. While all those fancy aids might have a place, if you’re not doing the basics, you’re kidding yourself.
No Quick Fix
Now, back to the question “how long?”… Think about how long it took you to get in the condition you are now. Was it an overnight occurrence? I think not. If it took you a year to pack on that extra thirty pounds and raise your blood pressure ten points, it’s fair to give your body at least that amount of time to reverse the damage. There is no quick fix to the destruction that we heap on our body’s systems. Time, consistency, and knowledge are our best tools for healthful change. Don’t get hung up on the time factor though. The journey is a climb; each bit of effort gets you closer to the top of your mountain.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
Healthful Elements
One thing that most of you don’t know about me is that I have a background in Interior Design/Decorating. It was my chosen career for many years before I surrendered fully to my calling of helping women find purpose and life-fulfillment. I still have a love for all things beautiful and for making environments healthful and blissful. In fact, a couple of years ago I developed a design concept with a friend that focused on converting home environments to induce greater physical, emotional, and spiritual health. The program was called Elements Design.
The reason I’m bringing this up now is that I truly believe that with making your living and work space not only comfortable and beautiful but active with life-giving features, you can add to that life-fulfillment I spoke of. Because this concept is still so much a part of my life and has aided in my own health journey, I wanted to share it with you.
Bring a Rainbow Inside
There are several elements to the concept that make it special. The first one involves color, the topic of today’s article. The theory that color affects our mood and even our health is not a new one; however, many people have no clue as to how to use it in this way. You know how you feel when you see a rainbow? Inspired. Joyful. Special. There’s a distinct reason for the elation. You have experienced the seven colors of the rainbow passing through your eyes. This event triggers hormones that actually correct imbalances and create harmony in your body! OK, so how can we get the same “rainbow” love in our homes? I have the answer.
Simple track lighting can be your ticket to experiencing the health benefits of a natural rainbow. All you have to do is affix seven light fixtures and either place colored bulbs in them or find gels in red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. Hang the track somewhere where you can sit and relax for a nice chrometherapy session. Instant rainbow!
What Does Each Color Do?
- Red – This is the color of vitality. It promotes energy, will power, sexuality, strength, and alertness. It can be helpful for those with anemia, impotence, and low blood pressure.
- Orange – The color of optimism. Useful for building confidence, positive thinking, and energy reserves. Color therapists use it to treat depression, hypothyroidism, lung problems, as well as kidney issues.
- Yellow – Known as the intellectual color. A well known, brain stimulator, yellow awakens latent mental activity. It’s used to aid in digestion, left brain activity, as a nerve builder, and organ cleansing.
- Green – The balancing color. Green is the most predominant color on the planet and is considered the color of nature itself. It is calming and soothing and can aid in insomnia, anxiety, and high -blood pressure.
- Blue – The color of peace. Blue is said to promote feelings of bliss and peace. It is also used to help throat ailments, headaches, migraine, and insomnia.
- Indigo – Known as a color of purification. There is deep healing properties with indigo; such as, total body rejuvenation, cleansing, spiritual healing, and blood purification.
- Violet – A color of higher body/mind/spirit connection. Violet is a special color that brings clarity to our higher mind and can help develop a sense of whole being balance. It is said to bring self-respect and may aid in overcoming feelings of hopelessness.
I love the study of color and the valuable information we can put to use in our lives. Have fun with adding various colors to your home and wardrobe. The best way to discover how you respond to each color is to do an experiment that puts you in front of each one for at least five minutes. Write down your initial reactions (emotionally and physically), and then your concluding ones at the five minute mark. You can extend your exposure time if your lifestyle allows for it. I will talk more about the Elements Design concept over the next few weeks.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be happy!
For additional reading on Chrometherapy, see Holistic Online.
***The content of this post is not intended to replace professional advice from your health care provider. Women’s Life Link, it’s authors, associates, commentators, or linked sites do not claim that any information will diagnose, treat, improve, or cure any disease or condition.
As parents, we often worry about our choices that concern our children, what form of discipline to use, how to tell them about sex, how much independence to give. It’s a never-ending challenge to balance the good with the bad. Though all of these things are important, I find myself thinking about something completely different…whether I can be a well parent. Now if you’ve never had a chronic illness, you may not relate to this at all, but humor me.
For over seven years, I’ve had a great deal of time and energy stolen from me by chronic migraine and CDH (chronic daily headache). As if it wasn’t enough to spit in my face, the incredibly rude and annoyingly curt illness has tripped, mocked, and short-sheeted my children. They have learned the emotion resentment (doesn’t go well with the teen years). I have learned how that extinguishes all confidence as a mother.
At times it seems as though they don’t want to hear that I’m improving, afraid that it’s not real or that the relief will only be temporary. I used to feel the same way about telling anyone if I had a good day or even a week. Not anymore, though. I am better; I am stronger; I am going to be a well parent. If it kills me…just kidding.
My physical, emotional, and spiritual growth has been life-changing in so many ways. I’ve searched deeper within myself than I ever have before. My body has a fighting chance to heal, to mend all the flaws caused by chronic pain and endless medication. The momentum has me moving in a direction that is bringing fulfillment, energy, and self-love. I no longer tell my head off or wish that someone would just put me in a coma. Yes, I could write a book called, 250 Ways to Live Without Your Head.
Looking to the future, I see myself spending more time making up for all that I’ve lost…we’ve lost. They may not understand all the trips to the doctor, all the pill bottles in my purse and on my nightstand, the painful injections that “make mommy silly”, or the nights I spent at the hospital, but I hope they know how much I have loved them through it all. I appreciate the times when they did help out a little more or comfort me with a foot rub or just their presence. I couldn’t have made it without them.
I don’t know what this new season of “no headaches” will bring; I don’t know if it will last forever or leave as quickly as it moved in. Regardless, I won’t take any of this precious time for granted. It’s a gift from God…
Thanks for being here.
Be Beautiful-Be Creative-Be Happy!
Photo By D. Cruz
’m Madeline, a forty-something woman who takes life by the horns…but I don’t take the bullshit that often comes with it. I tell it like it is…to your face. My philosophy is simple: be yourself, laugh often, make others laugh, and Be Happy Already!
Monday is like…the bag of garbage you forgot to take out to the curb…it stinks.
Why do you think that Mondays have gotten such a bad reputation? Is it the fact that your body refuses to get out of weekend mode by practically convulsing when the alarm clock goes off? Or could it be the thought of having the WHOLE work week to live through…again, which includes a boss with the worst comb over job you’ve ever seen, the gradual accumulation of wet towels and dirty underwear in the hamper on the floor, and the ungrateful, little comments that come with the territory of being a mother of teenagers.
I just don’t understand what all the fuss is about…no, not at all.
I really am trying to think of something nice to say about it. It’s nineteen minutes passed midnight; that makes it officially Monday, and I’m already a victim of it’s dowdy presence. I’m struggling with writer’s block…I never have a lack of words. I’m a big, fat blabber mouth who would talk for days straight if I didn’t have to sleep…oh wait, I do talk in my sleep.
That reminds me of a great story…
I was prescribed Ambien as a temporary sleep aid several years back. I’d never taken anything like it before, so I had no clue as to how it would affect me. Though I had read the insert, the term “hypnotic” drug did not register. It was only about twenty minutes after I took it when I checked out. Now, when I say “checked out”, I don’t mean fell asleep, dozed off, or any other form of unconsciousness. No. I was in a pre-sleep hypnotic state that, by the way, was quite entertaining to my family…so I heard. You see, the little trance-like thing that happens before you eventually conk out is wiped clean from your memory. Notta…zilch…poof…gone. So, this next part is all on good faith, as told by my husband.
The first thing I did is help my son with his homework. You have to understand, no one had a clue I wasn’t all there. He asked me a couple of questions…I answered. He believed me. I think that assignment ended up with a grade somewhere between a C and D.
The next event entailed getting out of bed, walking down the stairs, and making some form of snack that was interesting to say the least. They asked me what it was. I said, “It’s going to be a chocolaty mess tonight.” Don’t ask…
All I’m saying, if you ever have to take it, just beware. You will do some memorable things…all except, you won’t remember any of them. I once actually engaged my husband in sexual activity with no recollection of the act. He didn’t know I’d taken it…really. Haven’t lived that one down yet…
Well, my lovely friends, I don’t need Ambien anymore; I’m quite capable of forgetting the events of my life and getting to sleep all on my own. It’s time for Madeline to go to nighty-night. Enjoy the video I found of someone who had taken Ambien for the first time.
Love,
Madeline♥
I’ve spent some days, weeks, and even months lying in bed waiting to feel better from various ailments. So, I know what it’s like to be sick. It sucks! What’s more, not knowing why you are sick is even worse. Doctor after doctor offer no answers, and the quest is exhausting, to say the least. Because of several of these quests, I have learned a little about what can make a woman ill. Though the following information may not now- or ever- pertain to you, I recommend that you hear me out.
The Onion Concept
Keep in mind that your health comes in layers (like an onion), and the goal is to reach the center. As you skillfully peel each problem away, you reveal the next. This process can take months and sometimes years to accomplish. Unfortunately, most don’t make it that far – like me (still working on it). But with the help of a wellness expert and lots of patience, you can find the center (your true health). In considering the following five culprits to sickness and disease, make it a lifestyle to always strive for a better you. In other words, keep peeling.
1. Too much Estrogen
Most women worry about not having enough of this needed hormone (especially those who are menopausal and beyond). Well, to the surprise of many, I forthrightly say this; you could have too much. I discovered that there are two types of estrogen in our bodies. The gentle kind that brings us children, keeps us looking feminine, and prevents hot-flashes is called hydroxyestrone. We want this stuff. And we want it now. However, on the ugly side of estrogen’s family, you have 16 alpha-hydroxyestrone (a wayward sister) that damages cells and can promote women specific cancers.
It might be difficult to determine if you have excess estrogen without a test called an Estrogen Metabolism Assessment. Ask your health care provider if they feel you need one. Once you discover where you are with both types of estrogens, you can work on getting things in balance again. With or without the test results, you can start adding these to your diet:
- Broccoli, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower
Research by John Hopkins University, as reported in a recent issue of Women’s World magazine, suggests that a substance found in these foods helps convert bad estrogen to the good kind. And “eating just 1/2 a cup a day can cut your ovarian cancer risk by as much as 38%.” That’s worth eating your veggies for. I found some life-changing information in a book about the relationship between belly fat and hormones. Check out From Belly Fat to Belly Flat: How Your Hormones Are Adding Inches to Your Waist and Subtracting Years from Your Life — the Medically Proven Way to Reset Your Metabolism and Reshape Your Body.
2. Mold
Most everyone has heard about the dangers of certain types of mold, but have you checked your own home for this sneaky, health-stealing culprit. The problem with mold is that you may have it without knowing. It can be difficult to find and even harder to get rid of.
We used to live in a home that was in a very damp, wooded area. The extra moisture contributed to the growth of mold all over the property, including in the home’s interior. We were renting the house so to address the problems ourselves was not optional. While we were there, almost every one of us (pets included) developed asthmatic symptoms, frequent viruses, and horrible headaches. Since moving to a new home, the asthma has stopped and we all feel much better.
If you suspect a mold issue in your home or workplace, take action by hiring an environmental specialist to access the space. If you can not afford this service, home test kits are available. Remember, some molds are highly toxic and can be life-threatening. Also, try the following supplements and therapies to aid in respiratory ailments.
- Allerplex - This Standard Process product is a help for lung inflammation due to asthma and allergies. I’ve used it to help strengthen my respiratory system after the stress of a hazardous environment.
- Schizandra - This is an herbal supplement that helps ease the symptoms associated with allergies and environmental irritants.
- Neti Pot - I’ve spoke of this amazing little device before. Sinus irrigation is a wonderful way to eradicate the pain and swelling that comes with allergies and even sinus infections.
3. Dirty Air Ducts
This is something that you might easily forget about so schedule a cleaning on your calendar a year in advance. Dirty air ducts can lead to allergies, frequent viruses, and even bacterial infections if left unattended for long periods. The service is a little pricey but well worth it. Check your local ads for specials and coupons.
4. Candida (Yeast) Overgrowth
This common imbalance plagues vast numbers of people all over the world. Because of the abundance of processed sugars and flour in our diets, it is easy to see how yeast can get out of control. It can be hard to diagnose through any one test. The most efficient way to detect the presence of candida is through a symptom assessment. Your health care provider can offer you more in depth guidance on your specific case. In the meantime, try to cut down on processed foods in general. Also, adding a pro-biotic supplement like acidophiles will help keep you in balance. Also, here’s a trustworthy resource for more information…Yeast Infection No More.
5. Ancestoral Miasms
“In homeopathy, the theory of miasms originates in Hahnemann’s book ‘The Chronic Disease’ which was published in 1828. The three miasms given in that work are held to be responsible for all disease of a chronic nature and to form the foundation or basis for all disease in general.”
This might be a concept hard to grasp for some, but I encourage you to research the topic for yourself. I was first introduced to the term “miasm” while undergoing bio-feedback testing. The practitioner described it as simply a genetic weakness that is passed to us by our ancestors. There is, of course, more to it than that; for the sake of time and space, we will just touch on it here. It is the belief of some natural physicians that these weaknesses can cause an alarming number of ailments and even terminal diseases like cancer and diabetes. *** The good news, there is a way to gently care for these weaknesses through homeopathic treatment.
***A Doctor of Naturopathy like, Dr. Terri Hawkins-Fox, can give you more information on homeopathic remedies.
Stay connected to the latest articles and exclusive news, sign up for our Exclusive Email Community or pick up the RSS feed today! Look in the left sidebar!
***The content of this post is strictly informational and is not meant to replace the advice of a healthcare professional. Women’s Life Link, its owners, authors, associates, commentators, and linked sites do not claim that the content posted on this site will cure or improve any disease or condition.
Resources: Shirley’s Wellness Cafe, John Hopkins University, The Oxford Journal, Women’s World Magazine, Holistic Health Solutions, Natural Rejuvenation
Help Yourself…Help Another…
Change the World!
Click below to find out how…
Strengthening Your Immune System
As with other viruses, it is important to sustain your immune system. You can do it by consuming foods high in vitamin C and antioxidants, such as citrus fruits (orange, lemon, and the like), broccoli, garlic, onion, ginger, and turmeric. You can also eat medicinal mushrooms (maitake, reishi) or take supplements thereof. Elderberry extracts have also been shown to enhance the immune system. However, overdoing the supplements may lead to autoimmune conditions, where the body starts fighting against its own tissues.
Keeping Clean Inside and Out
To decrease changes of getting sick, wash your hands with soap and water; don’t touch your face; stay away from sick people (if possible); get plenty of sleep and take in enough fluids to help the body stay strong. Don’t forget that toxic emotions (including unresolved anger) can predispose to illness, so keep your conscience clean.
What if I Get Sick?
If you feel sick, please stay home if possible and call your doctor if you have severe symptoms, such as high fever, muscle pains, and weakness. You can also do breathing exercises and visualization (imagining your immune cells are fighting the viral invaders and winning the war); these have been shown to increase immunity. Also, see the related article, Vitamin D: A Missing Link in our Health. http://www.womenslifelink.com/vitamin-d-a-missing-link-in-our-health/
Be well.
Dr. Ance Lamse, MD