REAL RAW WOMEN

GASLAND

2012-02-02T12:15:00.000-08:00

When I got on facebook this morning I saw a post about Hydraulic Fracturing. A year ago I did not have a clue about this type of drilling for natural gas until I watched the documentary called Gasland. I really can not believe that we live in a society that turns a blind eye to the proven fact that this type of drilling is killing and poisoning people in America everyday. Read how the producer of GASLAND was arrested during the House Energy and Enviromental sucommitte meeting that was called to examine EPA's finding about the poisoning of groundwater due to hydraulic fracturing. Watch this trailor, GASLAND and then read about the events that took place at the subcommitte meeting. It is SHOCKING!!!

GASLAND

Here's Josh's statement he made today upon his release: I was arrested today for exercising my first amendment rights to freedom of the press on Capitol Hill. I was not expecting to be arrested for practicing journalism. Today's hearing in the House Energy and Environment subcommittee was called to examine EPAs fi...ndings that hydraulic fracturing fluids had contaminated groundwater in the town of Pavillion, Wyoming. I have a long history with the town of Pavillion and its residents who have maintained since 2008 that fracking has contaminated their water supply. I featured the stories of residents John Fenton, Louis Meeks and Jeff Locker in GASLAND and I have continued to document the catastrophic water contamination in Pavillion for the upcoming sequel GASLAND 2. It would seem that the Republican leadership was using this hearing to attack the three year Region 8 EPA investigation involving hundreds of samples and extensive water testing which ruled that Pavillion's groundwater was a health hazard, contaminated by benzene at 50x the safe level and numerous other contaminants associated with gas drilling. Most importantly, EPA stated in this case that fracking was the likely cause. As a filmmaker and journalist I have covered hundreds of public hearings, including Congressional hearings. It is my understanding that public speech is allowed to be filmed. Congress should be no exception. No one on Capitol Hill should regard themselves exempt from the Constitution. The first amendment to the Constitution states explicitly "Congress shall make no law...that infringes on the Freedom of the Press". Which means that no subcommittee rule or regulation should prohibit a respectful journalist or citizen from recording a public hearing. This was an act of civil disobedience, yes done in an impromptu fashion, but at the moment when they told me to turn off the cameras, I could not. I know my rights and I felt it was imperative to exercise them. When I was led out of the hearing room in handcuffs, John Boehner's pledge of transparency in congress was taken out with me. The people of Pavillion deserve better. The thousands across the US who have documented cases of water contamination in fracking areas deserve their own hearing on Capitol hill. They deserve the chance to testify in before Congress. The truth that fracking contaminates groundwater is out, and no amount of intimidation tactics --either outright challenges to science or the arrest of journalists --will put the genie back in the bottle. Such a brazen attempt to discredit and silence the EPA, the citizens of Pavillion and documentary filmmaking will ultimately fail and it is an affront to the health and integrity of Americans. Lastly, in defense of my profession, I will state that many many Americans get their news from independent documentaries. The hill should immediately move to make hearings and meetings accessible to independent journalists and not further obstruct the truth from being reported in the vivid and in depth manner that is only achievable through long form documentary filmmaking. I will be thinking on this event further and will post further thoughts and developments. I have been charged with "unlawful entry" and my court date is

Feb 15,2012.

Research this more on your own and find out what you as an American citizen can do to stop this poisoning of our groundwater.

Until next time,

Jan

Probiotics

2012-01-30T05:48:00.000-08:00

I am a big believer in probiotics, so I wanted to share this video with you from Dr Mercola.

.

I take the Raw Code for Women probiotics....

One reason I takethe RawCode Probiotics is because it has 85 billion total cultures. Do your own research and find out what works best with your digestive system. But what ever you do, add them to your daily routine.

Until next time,

Jan

Family Love!

2012-01-11T10:39:00.000-08:00

I am so excited to be joining forces with my amazing mom in writing this blog. My whole life she has been a mentor on my path of health, spirituality, and vibrant living. Now as an adult, we share a love affair with studying, experiencing, and sharing all the ways to upgrade our health, beauty, personal relationships, spiritual path, and all life's experiences!!
I will be contributing yummy high vibrational recipes, meditations, and maybe a little yoga.
I am a Gemini through and through, I love to communicate. If you are a close friend of mine you know that when I learn about something, try it, and it makes an amazing impact in my life I can't wait to share it.
I am grateful to my mom for the opportunity to share on this platform, it is going to be a blast! Smoooooches!!

Pinapple Stems

2012-01-10T07:29:00.000-08:00

A while back I discovered that there are some great healing qualities in the stem of the pinnapple....yes it's true. If you pull the green leaves off the pinnapple you will find this yellow stem under all the leaves. You have to be a little determined to get to it because some pinnapples have a lot of the green leaves. But after you have done a few it's a piece of cake!

Back in 2005, Australia's Queensland Institute of Medical Research discovered anti-cancer molecules in the "Pinapple Stems". Two specific phytochemicals CCS and CCZ appear to stimulate the immune system to target and eleminate cancer cells. While studying bromelain, a rich source of enzymes that is derived from crushed pineapple, they discovered these anti-cancer molecules, CCS and CCZ proteins, and found that they block the growth of a broad range of tumor cells, including breast, lung, colon, ovarian, and melanoma.
Not only is the stem great for you but the friut of the pinapple is as well. As I just mentioned pinapple is rich in bromeian, a group of sulfur containing protein-digesting enzymes that not only aid in digestion, but can effectively reduce inflammation and swelling. But the truth is, that the majority of the bromeian is in the stem. In clinical human trials, bromelain has demonstrated significant anti-inflamatory effects, reducing swelling in inflamatory conditions such as acute sinusitis, sore throat, arthritis, gout, and speeding recovery from injuries and surgery. The best way to eat pinapple is by itself between meals, or its enzymes will be used up digesting food. Enzymes reduce inflammation and dissolve poisons we don't want in our body.

Here is a picture of my pinapple this morning. I pulled the leaves off and what is left is the yellow stem. I cut off the yellow stem before I cut up the pinapple, then I throw it into my protein drinks in the morning. It really has no taste. But you can throw it into any type of drink that you are blending up. I think that if you struggle with allergies and inflamation, this would be a great thing to add to your diet. Never mind the cancer fighting qualities!!

Ohhh, and a couple more things....my daughter Hannah is now going to be a writer for Real Raw Women. So stay tuned for some great blogs!!

Also, my daughter Melissa has an amazing website www.spunirtha.com Make sure you check it out!!!

Until next time,
Jan

More Astaxanthin!

2011-12-12T08:15:00.000-08:00

In case you didn't get enough info in my last blog about astaxanthin, here is a youtube by Dr. Mercola confirming what I have already said.
I am sprung on this supplement!!
Take a few minutes and watch the video, and then go out and buy some. If you don't know what to get, check out my blog from a few weeks ago.

Until next time,
Jan

Detox after the Holidays

2011-11-28T08:57:00.000-08:00

I hope all of my readers had a wonderful Thanksgiving!!

Holidays are a great time to get together with friends and family to eat, drink and be merry!! But sometimes there is the tendency to over eat and drink and then we pay the price after the fact.

Zeoforce is a fabulous daily detox for your body!! You don't even need a Holiday to begin!

Zeoforce is a deeply detoxifying and alkalizing diet supplement form Earth clay, (zeolite is formed when volcanic magna hits fresh or salt water.)
It holds a negative charge and can bond with toxins for safe and effective removal of toxins. It removes toxins such as:
heavy metals
ammonia
harmful chemicals
environmental substances
All of these things are in the food we eat, water we drink and air we breathe. Toxins in our intestines are one of the main causes of disease and sickness in our society.
Metals are in fish, ammonia is in meat. Chemicals are in processed food and all kinds of beverages.

Toxins in the body are substances and chemicals that aren't normally found in or used by the body for its systems and functions. These "poisons" slowly eat away at your health, destroying vital organs, cellular tissues, and can cause a variety of cancers, illnesses, and diseases if they are not dealt with properly.

So this is an easy way to help your body detox. I use the powder form and mix 2 teaspoons in a glass of water, it is virtually tasteless. Or they sell it in capsule form. I get mine from Amazon because it's much cheaper.

The benefits increase with usage.

I love this product!! I try to remember to use it every day-but sometimes it's every other day. I always take it in the evening, so it works on by body while I sleep.

I see the difference it makes in my skin every time I use it! You look better and feel better when you're body is getting rid of the toxins in your body!

You can also use it for a face mask or add it to your bath for a detoxing bath!!

Check it out and see what you think!!

Until next time,

Jan

Clay Masks

2011-11-18T11:35:00.000-08:00

TGIF!!!!
Sorry that I haven't posted in a week. I have been out of town on work and haven't had a chance to post.

Here are a couple of face masks that I use from www.mountainroseherbs.com
I try to do one once a week. I love the way they make your skin look, besides all the great things they so for you. I usually put one on when I have time to take a long bath. I not only put it on my face, but on my neck, chest and shoulders, and then rinse it all off in the shower.
If you are interested, check out their site. They have so many wonderful products. Here is what they have to say about their French Green Clay.

Our French Green Clay has enormous absorbent powers due to the constitution of its micro molecules. It literally "drinks" oils, toxic substances, and impurities from your skin. Its toning action stimulates the skin by bringing fresh blood to damaged skin cells, revitalizing the complexion, and tightening pores. French Green Clay is marvelous for helping to clear problem skin. Use it daily on trouble spots, or weekly as part of a complete facial treatment. Mined from bedrock quarries in France, it is completely natural, unscented and fragrance free.

I also use this one also.
Rhassoul Clay

A truly exquisite Spa quality clay from ancient deposits unearthed from the fertile Atlas mountains of Morocco. Rhassoul is a mineral rich clay that blends extremely well with water making its application to the face and skin a smooth and delightful experience.
The best Spas across the globe utilize the toning and enriching benefits offered by Rhassoul and now it's just as easy to enjoy this splendor within your own home. High in Silica, Magnesium, Iron, Calcium, Potassium and Sodium content, this clay is surely one of the finest treasures for the pampering of your skin.

Check it out and see what you think. Great product, great price, great results!!

Here is my granddaughter Eden. Last time she came we did a mask together!

Until next time,

Jan

Updates

2011-11-09T10:32:00.000-08:00

Last week my daughter in law Megan of www.prettyinpinkmegan.com sent me a message and asked me about this article she saw at Mail Online. The article was about celebrities that take the supplement astaxanthin. I thought that I would share part of it since I had just written a blog about astaxanthin.

Here is what Mail Online is saying:

"It is dubbed the "extended life pill" and counts fans including Gwyneth Paltrow and Heidi Klum.
The powerful antioxidant is the ultimate supplement that promises to "fight wrinkles and improve skin elasticity.
Trials showed Astaxanthin to reduce visible signs of UV-aging through dietary supplementation within four to six weeks of use.
The completely natural pill, that uses no chemicals, preservatives, synthetic sweeteners or flavour enhancers, also boosts the immune system and improves join and muscle pain.
Astaxanthin belongs to the family of carotenoids, known to most as the pink color of salmon.
Salmon accumulate a very high level of Astaxanthin from their diet, which helps protect them from the free radical damage caused by the environment and the physical stress caused by swimming upstream for spawning."

If you need more information on Astaxanthin check out my blog post that I put up a few weeks ago!

Also, I talked about raw protein powders in my blog post on "My daily routine". I have decided that the protein powder that I am going with after trying out The Raw Code, and Healthforce brand is Healthforce. I ordered Healthforce from Amazon because it is $30.00 cheaper than Whole Foods. Also I got the plain instead of the vanilla because I heard that the vanilla was very sweet. So whatever is your preference. Here is a link just in case you are interested in reading about it or purchasing it!

Check these products out and see what you think! I believe that it really takes about 30 days to really see the results of the Astaxanthin, but it is definitely worth the wait!

Until next time,
Jan

African Mango

2011-11-04T08:30:00.000-07:00

Before African Mango

Okay, so I got the nerve to put up the picture of me from this August before I decided....I do believe it's time to do something before this gets too far out of hand. You might ask....how did you put on an extra 25-30 lbs???
To be honest it wasn't that hard. I call it "Party till you're fat"!!
I was eating fabulous raw vegan food, but I was also drinking wine (and clearly martini's, I see the glass sitting on the table!!) and I was not exercising!!!
Also, I don't know if this has anything to with it but I will be 56 in two months-so I used that statement to tell myself, you are getting older, your metabolism is slowing down, you're not in your 20's or 30's, it's okay!! Well that is so not true, because I see a lot of people in their 50's, 60's and on up that are in great physical shape and not overweight.
So I took charge!! One thing I decided to do besides start running, working out with kettle bells, yoga and detoxing is begin taking African Mango.
Afican Mango is an exotic fruit from West Africa. They take the seeds and crush them into a powder and put them in a capsule. Here are the 4 things that it claims to do:

1) Increase your Metabolic Rate
2) Reduce and surpress your appetite
3) Increase Energy Levels
4) Target Belly Fat

In the 2 and 1/2 months that I have been taking this supplement, I will have to say that for myself it does all that it claims. I do believe that proper diet and exercise are also a contributing factor to the 20 lb weight loss so far.

After taking African Mango

Here are a couple of brands that I have purchased through Amazon-I usually take 3 a day-but I stop taking them at 2 in the afternoon.

Check it out for yourself, there is a lot of information out there about it.

Until next time,
Jan

P.S. Wishing my husband a Happy Birthday today!!! He turned the big 5 0!!!!

My Daily Routine!!

2011-10-31T15:28:00.000-07:00

Until next time,
Jan

Oregano Oil...A natural cold fighter!

2011-10-24T05:35:00.000-07:00

About a month ago I had a twitter friend ask me if I knew anything about taking oil of oregano. Personally I had never taken it, but my interest was stirred up. After I read about it and realized the amazing benefits, I decided it was worthy of a post. One of the main benefits is preventing colds, or fighting an oncoming cold and existing cold.. I have not had a cold in over 10 yrs-nor have I been to the doctor for any type of sickness, because I believe that prevention is the way to live!! So maybe that's why I haven't realized the greatness of oregano oil!
Another great piece of information that I learned is that you can give this to your children by applying a drop or two to the sole of their foot, apply socks and you are way ahead of the game for protecting your children from the cold germs that they so easily pick up in their day to day life. So watch the video and I will put up a link to some sites for you to check out so that you can purchase it and keep your family healthy this winter!

So decide for yourself...check out www.naturallysavvy.com or you can go to www.mountainroseherbs.com

Oh and one more thing....A really big shout out to my husband for his first hole in one ever this last Friday!!,,,,and to make it even sweeter, it was on a par 4!!!

Until next time,
Jan

Vitamin Water-What you might not realize....

2011-10-20T07:11:00.000-07:00

Ran across this short video on Vitamin Water...Just thought I would pass it on....

If you are looking for a GREAT juicer...here is the one I use. I have had this juicer for 8 1/2 yrs. I have never replaced a part, and have juiced with it thousands of times.

Fresh juices are the real vitamin water!

Until next time,
Jan

ASTAXANTHIN...

2011-10-14T11:00:00.000-07:00

For those of you that personally know me, you know that I am always reading, researching and trying out new foods, supplements, forms of exercise etc. to improve my quality of life. In the last year I have come across a supplement that does just that.....it is called astaxanthin!!
Astaxanthin (pronounced asta-Zan-thin) is one of a group of natural pigments known as xanthophylls, a subcategory of the carotenoid family. Carotenoids are plant chemicals produced by plants. They use carotenoids for their natural antioxidant properties to protect themselves from harsh sun rays. Sea animals such as lobster, salmon and shrimp get their color from eating a diet of astaxanthin-rich algae and plankton.
This plant based algae supplement has almost too many benefits to list but here are just a few...

I love this one!!!
It improves skin quality!

It has been highly recommended by some doctors to reduce wrinkles, and age spots, improve smoothness, elasticity and improve moisture levels. Along with giving your skin a beautiful healthy glow!!!
Many people use this supplement so that they can spend more time out in the sun, because there is evidence that astaxanthin not only prevents UV sun damage from happening, but also helps reverse the outward signs of aging from the inside out!
Some cosmetic companies are using astaxanthin in their products to provide UV protection along with healing damaged skin.

It helps reduce inflammation!
This benefit really appealed to me because my husband battles with inflammation and joint issues.
After I read this statistic the other day I convinced my husband to start taking astaxanthin.
"The common remedy for inflammation includes, aspirin, acetaminophen and prescription Celebrex. The side effects from these have resulted in 103,000 hospitalizations and 16,500 deaths per year in the United States. Complications from the use of these medications represent 43% of all drug related emergency visits."
Astaxanthin has been effective in clinical trials for inflammation. It will take longer to see the results, but has been proven to be a safe natural alternative to prescription drugs.

It increases strength and stamina!

Astaxanthin has the ability to increase stamina due to the beneficial effect it has on your mitochondria.(the part of the cell that generates 95 % of your energy.)
It is also effective in reducing lactic acid buildup during workouts.

It is great for eye health!
Recent studies have shown that it is the ultimate supplement for eye health. It is one of the few antioxidants that can penetrate the retinal barrier in your eyes. Using it has proven to have protective benefits against these vision related problems:
macular degeneration
cataracts
diabetic retinopathy
glaucoma and many more

Here are just a few other reported benefits:
Boosts the immune system
Protects against Free Radicals
Normalizes blood pressure
Gives you better resistance to colds
Helps prevent the initiation of cancer

If you would like to check this out further, here is a link.
http://www.naturalnews.com/Files/Astaxanthin.pdf

I am stoked about this supplement!! It comes in different dosage amounts, I personally take 10mg. Check it out on your own, but if you would like smoother skin, reduce inflammation, increase your stamina, run get yourself some.

Until next time,
Jan

Welcome Back!

2011-10-09T14:20:00.000-07:00

As most of you know I took a small vacation from writing on my blog....but due to increased pressure from many of my friends and family, I have decided to pick up my pen so to speak and begin to roll out some new information that I have come across and experienced over the last year. The content for most of my previous blogs was primarily centered around food. But moving forward there will be a new menu of subjects to choose from. Just to name a few... diet, exercise, beauty treaments and secrets, the enviroment, recipes, relationships, along with supplement guides and tons of other great topics. Keep checking back each week and follow the life of Jan in Real Raw Women!!

until next time!!!

Happy Holidays!!

2010-12-10T11:01:00.000-08:00

Wishing all my readers a Happy Holiday and an Amazing New Year!!!

Also I would like to say Thank You to everyone that has read and supported my blog!!!

I am going to be taking a little time off from blogging, but you can still reach me through my

email..jlaxton08@gmail.com.

Until next time,

Jan

What's HOT this season!

2010-11-30T09:27:00.000-08:00

Melissa put up this post last holiday season, and I thought it was definitely worth reposting!

What's Hot....Recycling

This time of year is so geared around consumerism and excess that we have to work extra hard to do our part. This year, lets all delight in recycling boxes, wrapping paper, Starbucks cups, food containers, and everything else that needs to be recycled. It feels so rewarding to be responsible and sustainable. I know I harp on this a lot, but I consider the health of the planet the most fundamental of all issues. If any of you have children, know someone who does, or have ever even seen a child, you can understand how important this is.

I started recycling 10 years ago. My husband and I lived in an apartment without a garage. I remember storing one months worth of recycling in our truck (with a topper). We drove 3 hours round trip to the closest recycling center. It was our monthly Sunday drive. Now, we live in a city that cares so much about recycling and being green. We can recycle everywhere, finally. If it is very inconvenient in your city to recycle, then make a public stink about it. You would be surprised how much power you have to make changes.

What's Not Hot...Throwing away anything that can be recycled.

Recycling Facts

Recycling one ton of paper saves 17 trees, and saves energy equivalent to 185 gallons of gasoline. When recycling post consumer paper, 50% less energy is used, and 75% less water. Recycling reduces poisonous greenhouse gases. Recycling preserves the rainforest which is losing approximately 137 species EACH DAY due to de-forestation. The US has 5% of the worlds population, yet we produce half the world's trash.

Conscious Deliberation

I formerly worked in an office with 20+ employees. I was disgusted by the amount of paper being thrown away each day. So, I bought everyone a waste basket from the dollar store. They all complied, and I recycled heaps of paper daily with a huge smile.

Imagine a completely treeless, barren wasteland with dirty water...this is where we are headed, if we don't make ch ch ch ch changes!

Come on Everybody, It's Time
Let's all set our New Year's Resolutions to be the greatest Recyclers we can be!

******************* Happy Holidays ********************

Keep it Raw -

Melissa

We are what we eat....

2010-11-21T09:03:00.000-08:00

About six months ago I ran across an article from PETA titled, "The Sexiest Vegetarian over 50."
I am still intrigued by this woman and her story, so I wanted to share an interview that she did with a TV station after she won the title.

I guess you could say that the proof is in the pudding....According to Mimi, we truly are what we eat! Looking forward to getting older!!

Until next time,
Jan

Our right to grow food!

2010-11-18T20:25:00.000-08:00

Please read the following information from Natural News about a bill that will be up for final vote tommorow in the Senate.

Senate Bill 510, the Food Safety Modernization Act, has been called "the most dangerous bill in the history of the United States of America." It would grant the U.S. government new authority over the public's right to grow, trade and transport any foods. This would give Big brother the power to regulate the tomato plants in your backyard. It would grant them the power to arrest and imprison people selling cucumbers at farmer's markets. It would criminalize the transporting of organic produce if you don't comply with the authoritarian rules of the federal government.

It will become the most offensive authority against the cultivation, trade and consumption of food and agricultural products of one's choice. It will be unconstitutional and contrary to natural law or, if you like, the will of God." - Dr. Shiv Chopra, Canada Health whistleblower (http://shivchopra.com/?page_id=2)

This tyrannical law puts all food production (yes, even food produced in your own garden) under the authority of the Department of Homeland Security. Yep -- the very same people running the TSA and its naked body scanner / passenger groping programs.

This law would also give the U.S. government the power to arrest any backyard food producer as a felon (a "smuggler") for merely growing lettuce and selling it at a local farmer's market.

It also sells out U.S. sovereignty over our own food supply by ceding to the authority of both the World Trade Organization (WTO) and Codex Alimentarius.

It would criminalize seed saving (http://foodfreedom.wordpress.com/20...), turning backyard gardeners who save heirloom seeds into common criminals. This is obviously designed to give corporations like Monsanto a monopoly over seeds.

It would create an unreasonable paperwork burden that would put small food producers out of business, resulting in more power over the food supply shifting to large multinational corporations.

How to protest Senate Bill 510

1) Go to Congress.org and type in your zip code in the box in the upper right hand corner.

2) Click on your Senator's name, and then on the contact tab for their phone number. You can also call the Capitol Switchboard and ask to be directly connected to your Senator's office: 202-224-3121.

3) Once connected ask to speak to the legislative staff person responsible for agriculture. If they are unavailable leave a voice mail message. Be sure to include your name and phone number.

Give them this message in support of the "Tester Amendment" which would exempt small farms from S.510:

"I am a constituent of Senator___________. I ask that he/she support the Tester Amendment to the food safety bill. The Tester Amendment will exempt the safest, small, owner-operator farms and food facilities and farmers who direct market their products to consumers, stores or restaurants. Food safety legislation should not create inappropriate and costly regulatory barriers to family farms and the growing healthy food movement in the drive to crack down on corporate bad actors. Please support the Tester Amendment and market opportunities for small and mid-sized family farms, and small food processing facilities."

You may also wish to explain that you oppose the Food Safety Modernization Act in its entirety, and it is a destructive, freedom-crushing law that will destroy the future of food inAmerica.

Remember, America has already lost control over its money supply to the Federal Reserve (nearly a hundred years ago). America has lost its health due to the medical industry and its profit-from-sickness agenda. Now we may lose our right to grow our own food and save our own seeds if Senate Bill 510 passes.

This is a dangerous, tyrannical law that would thrust the American people into an age of darkness and malnutrition. It would criminalize many of the very people growing our food and turn food production into yet another corporate monopoly.

Please take the time right now to contact your U.S. Senator and voice your strong opposition to this bil

Take action now or lose your right to grow your own food.

Do it today! This is really important.

Jan

Awesome Handbags!

2010-11-11T09:59:00.000-08:00

All of my blog followers know that I am a raw food eater. So obviously I do not support animal cruelty on any level. I ran across this site for vegan handbags and was amazed at how great they looked and how reasonable in price they were, so I thought I would share them with you.

The designer is Susan Nichole from LA.
As a vegetarian and animal lover she wanted to adopt a more proactive approach to her actions and choices.That combined with her passion for handbags, she decided to create her own line of handbags without the use of animals. Here are a few of her designs.

Trinity in Black and Camel

Emma Backpack in Red

Kamini in Black

Kamini in Black and Tan

Leah in Black

Leah in Red

Lexi in Burgundy

Ms Betty in Purple

Sofia in Burgundy

Tara in Black

The Love Bag in Black

Go to her website at http://www.susannichole.com/ and check out all her handbags. You will be amazed at the craftsmanship and price of them. Most of her bags range between $75.00 and $95.00.

Thanks again for stopping by......

Until next time,

Jan

Law of Attraction

2010-11-06T10:28:00.000-07:00

A relative of mine posted this article by Beatrice Magnam on her Facebook page and I wanted to share it with my blog readers. It was originally posted on effortlessabundance.com.

Any careful study of the Law of Attraction proves that what we think about, we bring about. To quote Mike Dooley in the movie that started the phenomenal interest in this Law, ‘Thoughts become things.’
People often tell me that they want to learn how to use the Law of Attraction to improve their lives, whether this means their relationships, their financial situation, or their health. It is during these discussions that I noticed something important.

They differentiate between the very short period of time, perhaps as little as five minutes a day, in which they try to focus on their goals and, for a good part of the rest of the time, they will say things like, ‘I was just thinking, what if…‘ or, ‘I was daydreaming, that’s all it was.’
When questioned further, they will often admit that whatever they were daydreaming about or ‘just thinking about’, is almost always negative. In short, they are spending most of their time concentrating on the problem, and a tiny percentage of their time thinking about their intention in a positive way.
The Law of Attraction does not work that way! I am well aware that it is next to impossible to focus on one thing, one thought only for an entire day. In fact, it is difficult to do such a thing even for fifteen minutes.

In order to help those reading this article successfully harness the power of the Law of Attraction to achieve their aims, I ask that you suspend any disbelief or critical thought just for a moment or two, as you read this.

Couched within each moment and each point of what seems to be space is a vortex, teeming with possibilities that will remain non-physical and obviously invisible to you until you change your focus. Without realizing it, you yourself are at the center of the vortex, for this is your reality, the reality that you are creating from moment to moment, from day to day, for the rest of your life…and it is through your thoughts that you will realize (make real) any one of the experiences available to you.

Imagination and the Law of Attraction
To quote Napoleon Bonaparte, ‘Imagination rules the world.’ We have been given the ability to make up things in our minds, using thoughts and mental images (pictures), that do not necessarily have any basis in the reality we are presently experiencing.
By learning to use our imagination correctly, and with discipline, we can pull into our experience any one of the wonderful possibilities that exist within our own non-physical pool of probabilities.

I have always believe that it is a bit easier to start with something small, as opposed to, say, something like winning the lottery, – so I personally recommend that you try the following. The key here is to do it quickly, because in my experience the thoughts that will come to you the fastest are those that are closest at hand for your desire to be fulfilled.
1.Decide on one thing that you would really like to happen within the next couple of days.

2.Quickly choose a way in which it could possibly happen (but make it vague – there is no need to insist that it come to you this way).

3.Make up a nice little story in your head, an imaginary construct, of this happening.

4.Take this short mental movie and run it through your head every time your mind starts to focus on the problem.

5.Allow the emotions that build up over the first few exercises of this imaginary construct to build to a crescendo.

To give you an example of what I mean, allow me to present you with a real-life story.
A friend of mine found herself in a rather dire financial situation. She was a month behind in her rent and in arrears for her electricity bill. She is, however, a wonderful student of the Law of Attraction, and getting better at it every day.
She knew that whenever she received money, it came in the form of a check and it arrived by mail. Several times a day she enjoyed the imaginary experience of descending the stairs of her apartment building to walk her dog, stopping to gather her mail, and in her mailbox would be a check that would cover her needs. She would imagine her astonishment as she opened it, and the emotion of surprised joy and relief to be so overwhelming that she would just plunk herself down on one of the stairs. Naturally, this would cause her adoring dog to start licking her face, which would make her giggle as it always did.
This was a simple, disciplined and very enjoyable way to use her imagination, and each time she played this movie in her mind the emotions became stronger.
Two days after she began this exercise, she called me to let me know that when she went to walk her dog, she stopped to get her mail. Inside was a check from the insurance company that had covered the building she had lived in over a year ago, which was demolished by fire.
She had thought everything was already settled, and that she and the tenants had already received any monies owed to them for the damages. As it turned out, some of the tenants had gotten together and forced the company to re-evaluate their assessments, – this check was her share of the results. It covered her rent, electricity, and left her with a lovely surplus.
Her imaginary little story proved to be the key to drawing in the closest, fastest possibility available to help her achieve her goal.

Try it. It works!

Until next time,

Jan

Hand Sanitizers....Do they work?

2010-10-28T19:33:00.000-07:00

I ran across an article this week on hand sanitizers in Natural News and thought you might be interested..

Worried about catching a cold or the flu? Just slather on some hand sanitizer and you will be fine, say experts. But a new report has some different things to say. According to "germ experts", alcohol-based hand sanitizers only kill certain germs for up to two minutes before drying up and becoming useless. And a recent study out of the University of Virginia (UV) revealed that alcohol-based hand sanitizers do not reduce the overall number of cold and flu cases, either, suggesting they are ineffective.

NaturalNews covered the UV study back in September (http://www.naturalnews.com/029786_h...), but a new survey conducted by Healthpoint found that most Americans still believe hand sanitizers are effective anyway, and that they work for long periods of time than they actually do.

"Alcohol sanitizers last only a minute or two and must be reapplied when recontamination occurs," explained Dr. Philip Tierno Jr., Ph.D., director of clinical microbiology and immunology at NYU Langone Medical Center. But more than 50 percent of Americans think hand sanitizers last about 30 times longer than this in a single application.

Even the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) admits that that hand sanitizers "will not kill all germs", but the agency still recommends that people use them. But in the UV study, there was little difference in the number of rhinovirus and influenza infections between people who use hand sanitizers and people that do not.

Many hand sanitizers are also loaded with toxic chemicals that get absorbed in the skin and cause other health problems. And they ultimately will not protect you from getting sick. So a more preferable way to stay healthy and avoid viral and bacterial infections is to take plenty of natural vitamin C and vitamin D, eat powerful superfoods like garlic and astragalus, and drink plenty of clean water.

Until next time,

Jan

..

What about those Microwaves????

2010-10-21T17:26:00.000-07:00

I am enrolled in an online food and nutrition course by David Wolfe. Last week when I was listening to one of my lessons, the subject of microwaving food was discussed.

Here is the quote from that lesson by Lars Gustafsson, "Microwaving food changes the literal vibration of the the food.
Microwaving effects the electron spin rate of every single molecule. It is therefore actually changed the food into a poison."

So you know me, I had to do my own research and check out what he was saying.
Here is what I found out that totally went along with what I was hearing.

This is from a source call Mercola.com titled, "Why did the Russians Band an Appliance Found in 90% of American Homes?"

Microwaves heat food by causing water molecules in it to resonate at very high frequencies and eventually turn to steam which heats your food. While this can rapidly heat your food, what most people fail to realize is that it also causes a change in your food's chemical structure.

Microwaving distorts and deforms the molecules of whatever food or other substance you subject to it. An example of this is blood products.
Blood is normally warmed before being transfused into a person. Now we know that microwaving blood products damages the blood components. In fact, one woman died after receiving a transfusion of microwaved blood in 1991, which resulted in a well publicized lawsuit.

The Nazi's are credited with inventing the first microwave-cooking device to provide mobile food support to their troops during their invasion of the Soviet Union in World War II. These first microwave ovens were experimental. After the war, the US War Department was assigned the task of researching the safety of microwave ovens.
But the Russians were the ones that took the bull by the horns.

The Russians retrieved some of these microwave ovens and conducted thorough research on their biological effects. Alarmed by what they learned, the Russians banned microwave ovens in 1976, later lifting the ban during Perestroika.
The findings of the Russian government led them to issue an international warning about possible biological and environmental damage associated with the use of microwave ovens.
This is what the Powerwatch article cited as conclusion to the research....

Russian investigators found that carcinogens were formed from the microwaving of nearly all foods tested.

The microwaving of milk and grains converted some of the amino acids into carcinogenic substances.

Thawing frozen fruits by microwave converted their flucoside and galctoside fractions into carcinogenic substances.

Carcinogenic free radicals were formed in microwaved plants-especially root vegetables.

That small amount of information is enough for me. I have not used a microwave since I discovered all of this.

I remember as a child growing up my mom would always tell me not to stand in front of the microwave when I was using it, because of the radioactive waves coming off of it. Now I know what those waves were doing to my food...............

Since I am a raw food eater, I am not effected by not having a microwave. My husband has learned how to maneuver without one.
He has to plan ahead, especially if he is going to eat something that is frozen.
If he forgets to take food out of the freezer in the mornings, he will put the food in a zip lock bag and set it down in cold water.
Not having a microwave has encouraged him to eat more live plant foods!

So this is what I have uncovered....because of what you just read and much more information that I have come across, I do not use a microwave. Do your own research and make an intelligent decision on what is best for yourself and your family.

until next time,

Jan

Could your deodorant be making you sick?

2010-10-14T14:08:00.000-07:00

I have heard for years that there were chemicals in deodorants that were harmful to the body and could lead to serious diseases. But it wasn't until about 4 years ago that I actually made the change from your traditional deodorants,(Sure, Secret, Arid) to ones that did not contain aluminum chlorohydrate and aluminum-zirconium, and were not considered an antiperspirant.

The idea behind antiperspirants is to prevent you from sweating.

It works by clogging and closing, blocking the pores with aluminum salts in order to prevent you from sweating. But our bodies are designed to sweat in order to release toxins trapped in our bodies. So if you use an antiperspirant, your body not only holds on to those toxins but absorbs the toxic aluminum. Regular deodorants work by neutralizing odor, and by killing the bacteria that metabolizes the proteins and fatty acids.

Antiperspirants are considered to be drugs, so they are regulated by the FDA. The FDA considers antiperspirants to be safe, but that does not mean they are without danger. Many times the FDA does not take action because they do not "consider the consumer in danger."

In 1886 aluminum was recognized as a neurotoxin, long before it was put into antiperspirants.

Neurotoxins are substances that cause damage to nerves or nerve tissue.

Not something that might or could possibly, but do cause damage.

So here's where the sickness and disease part come in:

Humans absorb aluminum through the pores of their skin. In 2001 a study showed that there was aluminum still present in the blood of someone 15 days after an application of aluminum was put under the arm pit.

So if you are spraying a deodorant that contains aluminum onto the pores of your skin, your body is absorbing that aluminum into your body and blood stream.

Aluminum as a neurotoxin has been linked to Alzheimer's and other neurological diseases.

Autopsies of Alzheimer's infected brains has shown increased levels of aluminum compared to those that did not die from this disease. It is a proven scientific fact that high levels of aluminum in the brain can cause neurological diseases. The short term effects of aluminum toxicity are memory loss, mental confusion, loss of coordination, and learning disabilities, to name a few.

So what do you use?

Here are a few suggestion for deodorants that do not contain harmful chemicals.There are many alternatives, but here are a few:

There is a line called Tom's of Maine-Crystal Confidence

along with other types they have, roll on's or sticks.

I personally use a crystal mineral stick.

I know some women that just put lavender essential oil under their arms.

All of these can be purchased on line or at Whole Foods.

The verdict is still out on whether aluminum contributes to breast cancer, being that the aluminum is absorbed into the body in an area so close to the breast.

Women especially give this post a lot of consideration, and do your own research. But do what is right by your body to help keep your body healthy and disease free.........

until next time,

Jan

A week of Love and Laughter........

2010-10-05T07:50:00.000-07:00

This past week 2 of my daughters came in town to visit at the same time. My husband was out of town all week on business, so it was girls night out all week long.

Women getting together is so vital and important. After 5 days of non stop talking, we cured every world sickness, solved every universal problem , and the majority of that was done with awesome bottles of wine...(which by the way, I made sure my recyling got removed from the house before my husband got home)ha ha

So I wanted to share in pictures a little of our week....enjoy the real raw women!!

When I picked Hannah up from the airport I took her to a great place called Edgefield complete with a bronze statue of Jerry Garcia...Which made Hannah very happy, since she is a Grateful Dead fan!!

Next stop Multahnomah Falls....

And somewhere in between all the sights we made it to raw food restaurants....

We also went to Mt Hood and the Columbia River Gorge

After Melissa left we took in some waterfront in Downtown Portland!

We really had just an amazing week....but at the end it was just "sisters having fun together"

Until next time,

Jan

Glutathione....do you have enough???

2010-09-28T11:19:00.000-07:00

Gluta....what?????

Most of us have never heard of glutathione, pronounced (gloo-ta-thigh-on). But believe it or not this molecule is the most important molecule in your body in order to stay healthy.

It is the secret molecule for preventing premature aging, cancer, Alzheimer's. heart disease and dementia, along with a host of other diseases. So keep reading...

Your body does produce glutathione and it is considered the mother of all antioxidants, ( the things that kill free radicals). But there is one small problem, toxins, medications,stress, poor diet and radiation deplete your body of this molecule

So you ask, what exactly is glutathione??
Basically it is a simple molecule that is produced naturally in your body. It is a combination of 3 amino acids, cystenine, glycine, and glutamine. It contains a sulfur chemical group which allows it to act like fly paper. Bad things in the body stick to it like mercury and heavy metals, free radicals and toxins. Then the body disposes of these "bad things". This is absolutely necessary in order to stay healthy and prevent premature aging!!

The normal course of action for glutathione is to recycle in the body. But due to the fact that most people have become so toxic because of the air we breathe, food we eat, the water we drink and chemicals from dry cleaning, just to name a few, your body is not producing glutathione.

I read an article the other day by a doctor named Mark Hayman, and he said that all of his very sick patients that had chronic diseases were deficient in glutathione. He said that glutathione is critical for one reason, it recycles antioxidants, which is absolutely necessary in order for our body to fight off disease and prevent premature aging.

Since none of us are free from modern day toxins, there are things that you can do to keep the mother of all antioxidants levels up in your body.

1) Exercise

2) Eat plenty of broccoli, kale, collards, cabbage and cauliflower. Of course you know that I am going to say the best way to eat these is raw. I definitely juice the kale and collards with apples, lemons and lettuce.

3) Increase your Alpha lioic acid by eating once again more broccoli, and spinach.

4) Increase your folate, B6 and B12 by eating fruits, vegetables and nuts.

5) Increase selenium. The highest amount of selenium is found in Brazil nuts.

If you incorporate these few things into your life and diet, you will be taking just another step in reversing the signs of premature aging, and healing your body.

Until next time,

Jan

A week of travel....

2010-09-21T13:32:00.000-07:00

Last week I traveled with my husband and got to hang out at this awesome resort in WA State. I had no idea that a place like this existed in the state of Washington. It was a resort nestled down in the middle of a beautiful lake, surrounded by hills and mountains.

Even though it was on a lake, sand had been shipped in to provide the guests with the feeling of being on a beach.

The weather was absolutely perfect!! And as you can see the sunset was one to be remembered!!

I thought you might be interested in what I carry on these road trips so that I can continue to eat like I do at home....
Also a note about my husband, he is a real trouper when it comes to hauling all my wares in and out of the car.

The first item is the cooler that contains all my greens for juicing. The base of the juicer is sitting on top of the cooler and the blender and electric tea kettle are in the bags. I like to take my stainless steel tea kettle so that I can make my hot tea anytime I want and not have to leave my room.

Along with my greens, I bring all my superfoods to make my morning smoothies, maca, coconut oil, marine phytoplankton, just to name a few.

I break out my juicer around 4:00 to juice kale, rainbow chard, apples, romaine lettuce, lemons and ginger.

I also brought along fruits and nuts to munch on during the day.

It looks like a lot to travel with, but from what I can remember, it' is definitely much less stuff than what I used to take when I travelled with my small children!!

And the best part...one happy me!!

Until next time,

Jan

P.S. If you want my smoothie and juice recipes, they are in my are in my archives.

Salt...what is in your shaker?

2010-09-13T09:27:00.000-07:00

When I was growing up, I never paid any attention to the type of salt that my mom
was putting in our salt shakers...Didn't seem important, really didn't care. All I remember is that the container was dark blue and there was a girl on the front with an umbrella. Little did I know, that salt was no good for any of us!

So now I do care about what goes into my body all the way down to the salt shaker...

Here is what I want yout to know:

Salt intake is vital for our survival. As vital as taking in Oxygen.

You have to have salt intake to regulate the water levels inside and outside of your cells. Absolutely necessary for cell detoxification and filtration. Salt removes acidity from your cells. If you don't have that balance of salt and water, your body will not fuction at optimum health.

Salt has electrolytes, (I'll spare you the science lesson about what they are..), but the body has to have them in order to function properly. We communicate through talking, the systems in your body communicate using electrolytes.

Absolute must for hormone balance. And we are all in need of this one!

The problem really isn't about us getting enough salt as much as getting the right kind of salt.
The kind of salt that makes our bodies work properly....

Like I said, I grew up eating refined Morton salt. I did not know that all the minerals that are vital for my health had been stripped from this and all refined salt. Also eating refined salt over a long period of time can lead to problems with your kidneys and your adrenal glands.

So what are we supposed to use instead?

Unrefined Sea Salt,
and even with this you have to read the small print.

To save you time, I have found some great unrefined sea salts:

Redmond Minerals/You can buy this at Whole Foods or get it on line at Vita Cost
Hawaiian Speciality Salt
Saltworks, Inc.
I personally use Redmond...

So the next time you pick up your salt shaker make sure you have replaced the unrefined table salt with true sea salt. Care about your families health right down to the salt shaker!!

Until next time,

Jan

Tough Times...

2010-09-05T18:06:00.000-07:00

Sometimes life is just down right tough!! At times we just want to give up, throw in the towel. and quit. Trust me I have been there....

This post is not about raw food, or beauty secrets, or helpful diet hints...it's about Courage.

Courage to dig down deep inside and pull ourselves up by our bootstraps..and know we can get through anything.

It seems like a lot of people in my life have been going through some diffifult times.

I just wanted to use this post to let them, and anyone else that is having a tough time know, cry if you need to cry, yell if you need to yell, but this too shall pass.

The rain doesn't last forever...The sun WILL come out.

A friend of mine told me recently "start your day out with 10 things that you are thankful for" It's hard to be negative when you are being thankful...

So for anyone going through some of these hard times, believe and have faith that the answers will come.
Have courage, this video is for you...

Easy Facials

2010-08-30T05:00:00.000-07:00

All of us like to go and get facials!! But sometimes our lives get really busy and we don't take the time to go and enjoy one... So for those times in our lives I thought I would give you a few at home facial recipes that are not only easy, but great for your skin.

The Avocado Mask....
This is a great mask to moisturize your skin. Even if you don't have dry skin, do it once or twice a month just for added radiance.

Smash up or puree an avocado, add 6-7 drops of a fresh squeezed orange. Add one tablespoon of hemp oil. Massage this mixture into the face and neck. Also cut 2 cucumber slices and lay them over your eyes. Lie down and relax for 20-30 min. Rinse off and see the effects!!

Cucumber Mask for oily skin....
Peel a cucumber, finely grate it. Lie down and apply the grated cucumber to your skin. Have a warm towel ready to place over the face. Relax for 20-30 minutes, then rinse...Check out the results.

Aloe Vera Mask
Purchase an aloe vera leaf and fillet the leaf and take out the gel, or buy organic aloe vera gel.
Rub a thick layer of the Aloe Vera gel into your face and neck. Allow the gel to dry on your face, and then go to bed and sleep with the gel on your face. Rinse with lukewarm water in the morning. Instant face lift!

So do something good and relaxing for yourself...

These are the masks I use, try one out and let me know what you think............

Until next time,

Jan

Two musts haves for Beautiful skin...

2010-08-25T06:32:00.000-07:00

This coming Friday and Saturday I will be teaching a workshop, “Eating for Beauty”, along with my daughter Hannah. One of the topics for this weekend will be on ways to improve and beautify your hair, skin and nails.

So here is a little preview of what’s to come.

Two musts for beautiful skin and hair are silicon and sulfur, (MSM). So what are these, and how do you get them?

When we are born we have large amounts of silicon in our body. But recent studies have shown that due to our present day demineralized diet, much of our silicon is lost by, get this, age 10, and continues to decline even more as we age.

Why do we need silicon and sulfur? The body must have silicon and sulfer in order to maintain elasticity and collagen. Sulfur provides that radiant healthy glow to our skin.

With declining amounts of silicon and sulfur, premature aging sets in, and the skin begins to sag and wrinkle. Also your hair begins to lose it’s luster, shine and thickness. Not the type of aging process I’m looking for.

So what do I do? I buy silicon and MSM and add it to my daily regime. These are the ones that I am using right now. Bluebonnet brand of MSM and Cell food brand for silicon.

As always if I find something better I will pass it on

Also, some silicon and sulfur rich foods that you can add to your diet:

Silicon

Tomatoes, cucumbers, radishes, romaine lettece and bell peppers

Sulfur

Broccoli, kale, maca, brussel sprouts, bee pollen and blue green algae

Get an early start.....preserve your hair, skin and nails.

until next time,

Jan

Beautiful Skin Secret....

2010-08-16T19:55:00.000-07:00

I don't believe that I have ever met a person that didn't want beautiful, healthy glowing skin...Have you?

I know for myself I have tried every cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and exfoliator on the market. I got into the whole skin regime when I was about 13...So that is a lot of years of products!

Over the past few years though, I have done a lot of research and trial and error testing of things that I would have never considered using back in my younger days. Even though now I really wish I had!

So what have I discovered??? Omega 3 oils... From what I understand (and just bear with me, not trying to make you feel like you are sitting in your high school science or biology class) the human body does not have the capability to produce and store Omega 3's. So you must get it from an outside source.

Omega 3 is considered an absolutely necessary fat for keeping the skin healthy, beautiful, and radiant.

People who suffer from Omega 3 deficiencies have skin problems, such as dryness, itching, and skin thinning, along with nails cracking, and hair falling out.

Other problems that are a result of low Omega 3's in your body are depression, diminished immune system, hypertension, and irregular heart beat.

The best source of Omega 3's is in flaxseed oil, flaxseed meal, hempseed oil, hempseeds, avocado's and some dark leafy vegetables.

I take flaxseed oil everyday, along with flaxseed meal, hempseed oil and hemp seeds. I put all of these in my smoothie that I make in the morning. My skin has become so supple and radiant since I have started doing this. I only buy oils that are cold pressed, organic and unrefined. You do not want the oils to have been heated because heat destroys the liolenic acid, which is what gives your skin that radiant glow.

If you only want to start out with one oil, I would recommend flaxseed oil. If you are not mixing it in a smoothie, you will probably want to chase that tablespoon of oil with some juice.

So if you are not taking in some source of Omega 3, you can consider yourself deficient even if you haven't seen the signs yet.

So what are you waiting for?? Begin adding some flaxseed oil daily to what ever skincare routine you follow, and your skin and body will thank you.

Until next time,

Jan

Celebrities, what are they eating?

2010-08-10T07:31:00.000-07:00

If you have been following my blog, you know that I am a raw food eater..

So last week I was just curious as to how many celebrities are either vegetarian, vegan, or raw...

I was very surprised at how many celebrites that included..So I thought I would just share with my readers some of these famous names and faces!!

Demi Moore will be 48 this year! She has been eating the raw diet for over 10 yrs.

Super model Carol Alt is 50! She has been on the raw food diet since she was 34.

Alicia Silverston began eating a vegan diet when she was 21, that was 12 years ago. She looks incredible and has written a vegan cookbook, "The Kind Life"

Woody Harrelson is 49, hear what he has to say:

The designer Donna Karan will be 61 this year! She has been on the raw food diet for 9 years.

Actress Angela Bassett is a knock out at 52! She has been on the raw food diet for 8 yrs.

I have only been on a raw diet for a little over a year, and it has changed everything about me. From my hair to my toenails. I can't wait to see the results after another 5-10 years. From looking at these pictures, life looks pretty good on the raw diet!!

Untill next time,

Jan

Softdrinks ????

2010-08-02T19:11:00.000-07:00

My daughter Amy just had a baby, so I have been in NC for the last week helping her with the newest addition to the family, Hannah, and her big brother Jackson. One of the topics that came up while I have been here is the subject of Coke and Diet Coke.

Amy loves to drink Coke with her pizza or Mexican food... So I felt the need to inform her of some of the information that I had read about sodas. And actually I took it a bit further and did an at home experiment, using a piece of steak covered in Coke for 5 days, so that she could see the results!

Well the results were not pretty. Pictures will show you what I mean. I took pictures everyday for five days and you can be the judge for yourself. The Coke actually ate away ate the steak.

Day 1

Day 4

Last day #5

The Coke began to eat away at the steak, shrinking it's size and leaving the remains in the bottom of the glass dish.

I haven't had a soda in 6 yrs, but the steak experiment would have cured me for sure.

But if that didn't do it for you, here are a few facts that might help:

*In many states the highway patrol officers carry gallons of Coke around to clean up blood stains after

a wreck

*Coke has been used to remove rust stains from car bumpers.

*Coke has been used to remove corrosion from car batteries.

*You can use Coke to help loosen a rusty bolt.

*It will remove road haze from your windshield.

*Empty a can of Coke into a load of wash, add detergent and wash: helps remove grease.

*Last but not least, pour Coke into your toilet and let sit for an hour, then flush..helps remove stains from bowl!

There are so many other things that Coke can and will do, but I think you get the point.

O wait, one more bit of info: it takes 30 eight oz glasses of water to balance your acidic level for every Coke you drink.

How in the world could this product be good for human consumption??

Well it's not!!

So if you are a soda drinker there are so many other choices....

Cold turkey was the best approach for me.

Don't take my word for it, research it for yourself.

I drink lots of water, and coconut water along with San Pelegrino.

I'm leaving in 2 days and going back home and my daughter Amy hasn't had a Coke since I've been here.

I think the experiment worked!

She is a believer!!

Until next time,

Jan

What is in your dreams....

2010-07-26T20:32:00.000-07:00

Ever since I went to see the movie Inception I have been so much more aware of my dreams. So I thought I would post a few interesting facts about what is going on when the lights go out and the mind shuts down and the subconscious kicks in and the dreams begin.

We dream about 5 to 7 times a night. According to research you dream every night whether you remember your dreams or not. If you have had a stressful worrisome day or you have been involved in an intense learning situation or something traumatic has happened you will dream more.

If you are like me it is hard to remember most of the time what you dreamed. So if I wake up in the middle of the night, or when I wake up first thing in the morning, I now lay in bed for an extra few minutes trying to make myself remember what I dreamed before I jump out of bed, because once I am up and going I can't seem to remember them.

Here are a few hints for dream interpretation....
Our dreams use vocabulary of symbols and allegory to convey their message.
Your dreams are messages sent from your subconscious to you, trying to show you something about yourself.
If you pay attention you will see that dreams are always about you and your circumstances-where you are stuck, or what you are missing, or what you are avoiding, ignoring or where you are needing to go.
Through dream study they have found out that 95% of the time the characters, creatures, monsters, or strangers are representing you. Dream interpreters say that you should assume that all the people in your dreams are representative of you unless you recognize them as your spouse, children, parents, co-workers, etc.
Also, don't try to translate your dreams too literally. If you dream you are driving fast in a sports car along dangerous curves and lose control and die, don't presume that that is literal. It's far more probable that your dream is telling you something much less literal about yourself. Possibly, you need to get control of a certain part of your life, or the path you are taking is putting you in danger. Or you need to slow down the fast pace that your life is on. Death usually means the end of one part of your life and the beginning of another, or transition and change, or that change is coming very quickly-Intuitively you will know, because you are the dreamer and it is coming from your subconscious.

Nightmares are usually your subconscious trying to shock you into taking a look at some aspect of your life.
Dreams that repeat themselves are usually messages from your subconscious trying to get through to you.

I am definitely making more of an effort to remember my dreams. I believe that dream interpretation is a dialogue between me and my subconscious, which lets me know that I am connected to something powerful and infinite.

Just a little food for thought before you lay your head down on the pillow again!

Until next time,

Jan

Mind Power

2010-07-20T22:53:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I went to see the movie Inception yesterday starring Leonardo DiCaprio!! All I can say is WOW!

A must see...

It takes about 30-40 minutes to figure out what is going on, but after you do, you are sitting on the edge of your seat wondering what is going to happen next, and by the end of the movie you realize that you have been sucked into the whole plot of the movie and the dream sequence and you didn't even see it coming!! It's all about the power of the subconscious and our dream state!! My daughter in law Megan will love it!!

This movie has prompted me to talk about a book that I am reading called,

"Mind Power Into The 21st Century" by John Kehoe

Techniques to harness the powers of thought

The book presents a remarkable and specific guide to harness the powers of your Subconscious mind

Tap into your creativity

Improve your self image

Develop a prosperity consciousness

Interpret your dreams along with so many other things.

The book aligns itself with a quote that I live by,

"Your thoughts are a preview of your life's coming attractions"

Getting down to the nitty gritty of life we can truly see that our outer world is just a reflection of our inner world, which is our thoughts.

Everything that happens in our life begins with a thought.

Our thoughts are the power behind what is being created in our lives, which then becomes our reality. Nothing in our lives happens without the power of thought!

I think that it is probably fair to say that we could all use a dose of more positive thoughts in our lives.

I have personally discovered that if I don't like the way things are going in my life, the first place that I check is my thought process that has been going on in my head for the past 24 to 48 hrs. I call it " the stories I tell myself." Sure enough I realize that I have been thinking thoughts that have put me in that state of mind or bad mood. So what do I do, I begin to shift the way I think, and that changes the way I act and feel. Negative thoughts produce negative feelings and emotions. Positive thoughts produce positive happy feelings and emotions.

Changing our lives through the power of thought is a process and it doesn't happen overnight. But if you want to learn more about how your thoughts and your subconscious can be the tools to create the life that you want for yourself, pick up this book and give it a read.

A verse from the Bible says"Whatever things ye pray for and ask for believing that ye have received, ye shall receive them. Notice that it says that you must believe you have received them-not that you will receive them, but that you have received them. This is more than just hoping or wishing, this is claiming what you want in the inner world, the world of thought and creative energy, a very powerful process."

Until next time,

Jan

Eating for Beauty!

2010-07-12T09:54:00.000-07:00

In August I will doing another weekend workshop in Memphis on Eating for Beauty. So I thought I would use my blog to give everyone a little preview of what's to come.

An amazing fruit that I just personally discovered today was the "papaya"!!

I sent my husband to the grocery store to buy me my first papaya! Yes my first! I was stunned at the beauty of this gorgeous fruit!

I cut into the papaya and was smitten at the site of this succulent, sexy velvet looking, orange juicy, yummy fruit full of seeds that are actually unbelieveably healthy for you!

So, why am I so sprung on this papaya?

For soooo many reasons, but here are just a few.

To start off with I decided to use the fruit for a facial!!

Papaya is known for it's extensive skin care therapy. When applied it feeds and nourishes the skin and reduces wrinkles.The vitamin A accelerates the formation of new skin cells and exfoliates the old skin cells. It is also loaded with vitamin C, an antioxidant, and with the beta-carotene which protects the skin and promotes skin elasticity. Try out this recipe for an amazing facial that loosens dead skin cells, which improves the elasticity and also helps stimulate collagen production.

1 cup of fresh pineapple

Half a cup of fresh papaya

1 tbl of honey

Puree fruit together. Add honey and mix into a paste. Leave on as a mask for 15-20 min. Then rinse completely.

So I tried out this facial today and walked around with fruit all over my face for 20 min! I felt and smelled pretty delicious!! When I rinsed my face I was so happy with what I saw. My skin was tighter and firmer and my husband kept going on about how radiant and glowing I was!! The proof is in the pudding!!

So after my facial I cut up the other side of the papaya into cubes and set and ate it up. It has somewhat of a honeydew melon taste ( which I am not really fond of) but I could see how I could aquire a taste for this, especially because of all the wonderful things that it does for you.

When you eat the wonderful fruit it cleanses and soothes your digestive tract. It is very good for indigestion.

David Wolfe says "After eating 2 medium sized papayas each day for a week, one will feel remarkably cleansed from the inside out. Papaya greatly enhances skin beauty, nail strength and hair luster."

If your insides are clear and clean it will show in your skin.

Papayas also have anti cancer properties. The enzymes eat the protein-laden material surrounding certain cancerous tumors. They have been know to be perscribed to women with breast cancer.

So treat yourself to an at home facial, and then eat the remains to protect your skin against wrinkles and eliviate skin damage!!

Until next time,

Jan

Pesto with sundried tomatoes and artichoke hearts

2010-07-05T08:05:00.000-07:00

I have had a lot of requests for the recipe of the pesto spaghetti that was served at the workshop my daughter and I hosted last weekend in Memphis. This would have to be one of my favorite raw dishes, and can be made in less than 10 minutes. In order for you to make the raw zucchini pasta you will need to purchase a spaghetti spiraler.

I purchased mine through Amazon for around $29.00. (Also kids love to watch and help spiral fruits and vegetables)
I spiral one zucchini for every person.
Pesto
2 cups of fresh organic basil (stems removed tightly packed)
1/4 cup of olive oil
2-3 cloves of garlic
1/3 cup of organic pine nuts

Place all ingredients in food processor except nuts and pulse till completely processed.
Soak pine nuts for about 10-15 min and rinse before adding to food processor.
Add soaked and rinsed nuts to basil mix and pulse till done.

Mix pesto with 2 large zucchini spiraled and add sun dried tomatoes and cut up artichoke hearts and toss. (the amount of sun dried tomatoes and artichoke hearts is totally up to the individual.)

Top with cracked pepper /Serves 2-4 people

For those who want Parmesan, grate raw cheese on top.

If you are not a big pesto fan, you can could make a marinara sauce instead.

In a blender or food processor with an S blade add:

1 organic red pepper

1 organic tomato

1/4 cup of sun dried tomatoes(soak for 15-20 min before adding)

1-2 cloves of garlic chopped up

1/3 cup of dry basil (or to taste, more or less)

oregano to taste

salt

pepper

I throw all of this into my blender and blend into a liquid. Then put over spiraled pasta.

Raw zucchini is a rich source of antioxidants, fiber, calcium and beta carotene.

The pine nuts are an excellent source of iron and vitamin D.

If you don't have a spiraler or you aren't ready to buy one, try grating your zucchini with a cheese grater. You won't get the true spaghetti noodle but you can will get the same taste.

Let me know what you think.

Until next time,

Jan

A weekend of Raw Food and Yoga

2010-06-29T17:21:00.000-07:00

This past weekend my daughter Hannah and I hosted our first Raw Food and Yoga workshop at her studio in Memphis TN. It was such a fun filled weekend full of off the chart yoga and out of this world raw food and superfood smoothies. We served raw zuchinni pasta with pesto, sundried tomatoes and artichoke hearts on Friday night. Hannah taught yoga and I spoke on introduction to raw food eating. We ended the night with dark chocolate and a lot of happy people.
On Saturday after our yoga session I demonstrated how to make superfood smoothies with my recipe of superfoods!! I talked about each different superfood, then I made them for everyone. ( I learned a valuable lesson...don't pass out the smoothies until the very end-the energy level and the talking level went up 100%!)
It turned out to be an amazing weekend. Here are some pictures of how it all came together.

What a great way to spend a weekend, learning how to eat healthier, feel better and improve the quality of your life!!!

Until next time,

Jan

PS: A special thanks to Olivia Lomax for all her help and support!

The little pink pill

2010-06-21T09:42:00.000-07:00

I have been hearing and reading about this little pink pill for weeks. I haven't really heard a lot of good things about it , actually more negative than positive. Some of the information coming from the associated press states:

"A pink pill designed to boost sex drive in women-the latest attempt by the drug industry to find a female equivalent to viagra-fell short in two studies, federal health regulators said Wednesday.

The FDA also noted increased side effects like depression, fainting, and dizziness among the women taking the pill.

According to the report there is no other treatment currently on the market to help women suffering from a low sex drive."
The pink pill (flibanserin) came up for approval from the FDA last Friday June 18 and did not pass, so they were sent back to the drawing board...

The Female Viagra, flibanserin, disappoints FDA

June 21, 2010 at 11:11 am by Shawn Alff

The FDA advisory panel agreed that flibanserin wasn’t significantly better than a placebo and that its slight benefits don’t justify its side effects: dizziness, nausea, fatigue, and depression.

As reported by CBS news, the FDA needed to be convinced that the drug increased sexual desire regardless of the occurrence of sex. However, an independent study revealed that the women taking the drug only reported a slight rise in sexual satisfaction.

So what are women to do that actually suffer from a low sex drive?????

Well there may not be a pharmacutical drug to boost a low sex drive in women, but there is a plant called maca root that that has helped women for centuries.

I have written about maca before, but I felt like is was worthy of a repeat in light of all the attention on womens low sex drive and this little pink pill.

The results of clinical research has proven that maca helps in sexual performance and helps boost libido. Clinical case studies have shown that Maca can help relieve the discomforts of PMS and menopausal symptoms.

New York-based Dr. Viana Muller introduced Maca to other medical doctors at the 1997 Anti-Aging Medical conference and noted that Maca Root had been used successfully by Peruvians to regulate hormonal imbalances, menstral irregularities, fertility, and menopausal symptoms, including loss of energy and libido and temporary depression.

I have been taking Maca for 3 yrs, and there is no low libido in my house!!!

Maca is also considered an adaptagen, which means it has the ability to balance out your hormones, and free yourself from PMS and menopausal symtoms. Some people who take maca see immediate results, others may take up to 30 days.

So if you suffer from low libido or have problems with PMS or menopausal symptoms-run get yourself some maca root. I believe every woman needs this in their daily diet even if they aren't experiencing these symptoms. By the way it works great for men also.

I buy organic raw powder and put 2 heaping tsps in my smoothies everyday.

Get some balance and fun in your life-get some maca!!

Until next time,

Jan

A few smoothie recipes

2010-06-14T09:48:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I have been bombarded with requests for smoothie recipes. So here are a few great recipes to beautify, energize and radiate your life.

These are simple recipes and you can use a regular kitchen blender. Put all ingredients in the blender and mix on high until fully blended. Add as much or as little coconut water as you want for thickness.

Banana Coconut Goji
8-10 cubes of ice
2 organic bananas
5-7 organic strawberries
2 heaping tsp raw organic maca
15-20 organic dried goji berries
1/2 dropper of marine phytoplankton (liquid form)
1-2 cups of coconut water

I squirt the marine phytoplankton in the bottom of my glass then pour the smoothie on top and stir.

Banana Strawberry Bee Pollen
8-10 cubes of ice
2 organic bananas
5-7 organic strawberries
1 large organic peach peeled and quartered
handfull of organic blueberries
2 heaping tsp of raw organic maca
2 tsp of organic bee pollen
1/2 dropper of marine phytoplankton
1-2 cups of coconut water or if I want a milk base I substitute coconut water for organic almond milk.

The marine phytoplankton is clear and almost tasteless and is a very good protein source along with many other benefits. It has been so amazing for my skin. You can check out a lot of these ingredients and their benefits in my archives.

If you are not picky about taste and the color green doesn't bother you, add a 2 tsp of organic spirulina powder to the smoothie.
Some children will not drink the smoothies if they are the color green-not sure why, but I know quite a few that won't-so by using the liquid marine phytoplankton they will be getting protein and it doesn't turn the smoothie green.
You can add and subtract any of the friut, if there are some that you
like more than others. Also if you have a sweet tooth you might want them sweeter so you can add some type of organic raw sweetener like agave.

If you have a vita mix or blendtech blender you can make the same smoothies and add a handful of fresh organic kale or organic spinach or both.

Try these out and see what you think-
Also sometimes it is easier to drink these with a straw.

If you are pregnant, do not add the maca root to your smoothies.

Until next time,

Jan

Smoothie for a Soldier

2010-06-06T17:19:00.000-07:00

My daughters husband John is in the Army and currently deployed. I think about him so much and pray for a safe mission and speedy return. You really have no idea what these military families go through unless you know them personally or you are related to them. John is an amazing husband and father, and I am so happy that he is part of our family.

Of course being the health nut that I am, I was concerned about him and his ability to get good nutritious food while he is deployed. He is very conscientious about his diet and exercise, so I asked her if he was happy with the food that he was getting. She told me that he has had a hard time getting his hands on good healthy food . So I suggested to her that she buy him a blender and the 10 superfoods and ship it to him. This way he could make superfood smoothies every day and be assured that he was getting everything he needs nutritionally on a daily basis, So that day she ordered everything and shipped it to him, and he couldn’t be happier!!

Here are a few of the 10 superfoods that she sent him, ( I have already blogged about 4 of them, just check the archives.)

Blue Green Algae-The benefits are endless-

Loaded with chlorophyll

Contains 40 major trace minerals which are necessary in the building of every tissue including hair,
skin, nails, and bones!

Excellent source of B vitamins which is needed for energy, stamina and endurance.

Great source of PROTEIN
A complete source of protein containing 60% protein-18 amino acids

PEA="The love chemical" Helps to create feelings of euphoria, excitement and attraction

I buy the Klamuth Blue Lake blue green algae.

Another superfood is Aloe Vera Gel

Here are the benefits...

Lubricates the joints and skin

Great for the digestive system.

Reduces inflammation

Normalizes blood sugar

Hydrates your cells

Reverse the aging process, feel incredible, look younger, and have more energy than you can imagine! Drink yourself some GREEN!!

The best part of this whole post came from my conversation with Amy today when she told me that her husband was so thankful to have the superfood smoothies because he pretty much lives off of them.

How rewarding to know that you are contributing to someones happiness and health and making the quality of their life better. Just makes me SMILE...:-))))))))

John, we miss you, and look forward to your safe return. O, I just wanted to let you know, I've got you covered on the labor and delivery of baby Hannah! She will be in good hands with her Nonnie!

Until next time,
Jan

PS...If any of you readers are near the Memphis area, my daughter Hannah and I are doing a weekend workshop on Yoga and Introduction to raw foods and superfood smoothies on June the 26th at Give Yoga Memphis.

Sunscreens-What to do?

2010-05-31T09:34:00.000-07:00

Since we are moving into summer, many of us are deciding what sunscreens to use, or whether to even use sunscreens at all. Are they safe? Do they play a part in causing cancer? What are we supposed to put on our children? Here is a little information that I have come across that might help to answer those questions.

I have been a sun worshiper my whole life. Of course back when I was growing up sunscreens hadn't been invented. I never used sunscreens until after my children were born and all the hype and commercials starting telling the general public that the sun was bad and we must guard ourselves and cover ourselves up so as to not expose our skin to these harmful ultra violent rays. So I started buying sunscreens because I was scared of what could happen if I didn't. But it never crossed my mind at that time that there could be chemicals in the sunscreens that could be hazardous to my health.

I began using sunscreens somewhere between 1980 and 1984, and from that point on I was never in the sun without them. I also became even more concerned about my face, so I bought the sunscreens especially made for your face-never checking out the ingredients.

In 2003, after 20 years of sunscreen use I was diagnosed with basil cell carcinoma on my face, a form of skin cancer. Thank goodness it was found out early and removed immediately. I had quite a chunk cut out of my face under my left eye, but the doctor did an amazing job and was able to go deep enough and scrape out all the cancerous cells. I was monitored for the next year and then was given a clean bill of health.

Do I believe that the sunscreens played a part in the skin cancer? Most definitely I do. After the surgery, I never used a sunscreen again on my face, and I began to do my own research on the effects of sunscreens. Here is some infromation that I have recently found out about the use of sunscreens.

According to the natural news the FDA has refused to publish safety standards for sunscreen products. So non profit groups are having to get involved to inform the public. One of these groups is the Environmental Working Group that has compiled a list of 700 name brand sunscreens along with the toxic chemicals they contain, They report that many sunscreens contain cancer causing chemicals that get absorbed through the skin. The EWG reports that 84% of sunscreens are harmful to consumers. The link between sunscreens and cancer is due to the fact that sunscreens block UV rays which generate the anti-cancer nutrient vitamin D in human skin. Vitamin D is simply the worlds best anti-cancer medicine, and recent studies have shown that it can prevent nearly four out of five cancers in all women, including breast, cervical, lung, and skin cancer.

The EWG ground-breaking research is based on nearly 400 peer-reviewed studies of the 17 sunscreen chemicals approved for use in the US. Ironically some popular sunscreen chemicals break down when exposed to sunlight and must be formulated with stabilizing chemicals. Others penetrate the skin and present significant health concerns.

So what are we supposed to do?

The EWG has posted a list of sunscreens that they recommend:

Loving Naturals SPF 30+
Heiko Kids SPF 40
Goddess Garden Kids Natural SPF 30+
California Baby Sunblock SPF 30+ Stick No Fragrance (Their other products in this line did not have as good a rating.)

The following came in second to the above:

Badger Sunscreen face stick SPF 30
Soleo Organics All Natural SPF 30
Purple Prairie Botanical Sun SPF 30
UV Natural Baby Sunscreen SPF 30
Suntegrity Skincare All Natural Moisturizing Face Protection SPF30

I'm sure you noticed as I did that the major brands that you see in Target and Walmart are not among the ones that are listed!

The sun is not our enemy, in fact we need a little sun everyday to help our body produce vitamin D. And also the best sunscreen is internal sunscreen built from antioxidants, which include spirulina, chorella, and the superfoods that I have written about. These foods help you to build up a natural internal sunscreen that blocks excessive UV rays naturally.

I could have given you a lot more facts about the harmful chemicals in sunscreens, but I think you get my point!! Don't just take my word for it, do your own research and come to your own conclusions. Check out http://www.naturalnews.com/ and type in sunscreens and www.ewg.org/sunscreen.

Until next time,

Jan

Passion-Find out Yours through Numerology

2010-05-27T12:31:00.000-07:00

My daughter sent this to me this morning (it came to her from Ana Brett and Ravi Singh). I thought that it would be a great follow up to my post on Passion. Take a few minutes and follow the instructions and see what your passion is accourding to numerology. All you need is your birthday. Every person that I have checked out has been right on the money...See what you think!

Your Secret Passion

There exists a secret desire which enlivens us and which we look for people to woo us with. If you're honest, and give this gift to yourself, you'll have passion in your life everyday. Hegel said that, "Nothing great in this world has been accomplished without passion." Martha Graham said, "What makes a dancer great is not their technique but their passion." Your secret passion is what gets you out of bed in the morning.

We're not advocating quitting everything to "follow your bliss." Passion of course should be tempered with sobriety. The union of the two equals Wisdom. Invest what you do with your passion in the context of your life right now.

So, how do you find your passion? Sometimes the right clue can make everything fall into place. Sometimes we desire intensely but we're not sure what exactly we desire!

Your Heart Number

There is a simple calculation in the system called Tantric Numerology (part of the teachings of Kundalini Yoga) which you can use to ascertain your secret passion. It's called the Heart Number.Your Heart Number is calculated using the number (reduced to one digit except for 10 and 11) of the month you were born added to the last two numbers of the year you were born. Confused? Okay, if you were born on June 8th 1987, then you would add 6 (June being the 6th month) + 8 + 7 (the last two numbers of 1987). 6 + 8 + 7 = 21. Then you would add 2 + 1. which makes your Heart Number a 3. If you were born on November 26th, 1992 the you would add 11 + 9 + 2, which equals 22. It just so happens that 22 is considered a Master Number, so in this case the answer would be 4 (2 + 2) and 22 simultaneously.

So, what does each number mean?

1. Heart Number 1: (you would've had to have been born in January of 1900 or 2000). Your secret passion is innovation, non-conformity, and creativity. You're always on the lookout for creative, original, soulful people. What opens your heart is simultaneously honoring tradition and being ahead of your time.

2. Heart Number 2: Your secret passion is partnership, relationship, learning at the feet of a Grand Master, and pure devotion. You're always on the lookout for geniuses, professors, teachers, experts. Therapy for you is connecting with people one on one, learning new things, and being a perfect student. What opens your heart is being validated by an expert in something you aspire to.

3. Heart Number 3: Your secret passion is expression, nurturing, the deep psyche, and giving hope to all. You're always on the lookout for exuberant, giving, positive people, and well as deep thinkers and writers. Therapy for you is raising everyone's morale. Pomp and circumstance doesn't impress you. What opens your heart is getting down in the trenches, as it were, and making a difference.

4. Heart Number 4: Your secret passion is logic, clarity, and "just the facts." You're always on the lookout for down to earth, clear-minded, rational people, and people with big hearts. In spite of yourself, very matter of factly, you live with an open heart in a way that transcends your own logic. Therapy for you is figuring out how things work. In spite of yourself what opens your heart is selfless service.

5. Heart Number 5: your secret passion is athleticism and pushing the envelope." You're always on the lookout for people who take it to the limit. Therapy for you is hiking up a steep mountain. What opens your heart is teaching.

6. Heart Number 6: Your secret passion is focus and speed. You're always on the lookout for fierce self-directed people. Therapy for you is making a list of the the things you want to accomplish and getting it done. What opens your heart are people who, for all intents and purposes, are secretly angels.

7. Heart Number 7: Your secret passion is being the center of attention. You're always on the lookout for fabulous, funny, entertaining people. Therapy for you is being the life of the party. 7's can also be loners, but need to feel they're sought after. What opens your heart are people who shine.

8. Heart Number 8: your secret passion is inspired leadership, the art of the deal, working tirelessly to achieve your goals. You're always on the lookout for powerful, driven, fearless people. Therapy for you is being financially successful.What opens your heart are people who pay you well for your work.

9. Heart Number 9: Your secret passion is art music, and subtle mastery. You're always elegant , refined, genius type people. Therapy for you is giving voice or expression to something inexpressible. What opens your heart is great art and anything sublime.

10. Heart Number 10: your secret passion is discipline and going up against impossible odds. You're always on the lookout for other warriors in whatever guise. Therapy for you is getting your butt kicked in an advanced fitness or martial arts class or organizing your community to stop greedy developers. What opens your heart is a fight worth fighting.

11. Heart Number 11: Your secret passion God. You're always on the lookout for spiritually driven people who can direct you to the path of the Saints. Therapy for you is prayer, meditation, and spiritual inspiration. What opens your heart is the Ultimate Truth.

My passion number was 3, so true!!

Until next time,
Jan

PASSION IS EVERYTHING....

2010-05-24T08:07:00.000-07:00

Passion....what does it mean? No, I'm not talking about your passion for someone...I'm talking about your passion for your life.

If you look up passion in the dictionary it says:
A strong feeling or emotion...
Something that is desired intensely...
An irresistible motive for a belief or action...

We all have a passion for something...but do you live your passion, or just dream about living your passion?

Recently my daughter Amy, (writter for her own blog, http://www.clickclackmom.com/) told me about a book "Crush It".

The book was written to help you recognize your passion, discover how to make it your life's work, and then actually make a living off of it. If your work is your passion, you never feel like you are working...

The author of the book, Gary Vaynerchuck, starts out by saying that there are 3 simple rules that he lives by...
Love your family.
Work super hard.
Live your passion.

Well, I had the first 2 down pat, but I knew that I wasn't quite doing #3...Living my passion.

First of all we have to determine what our passion is...and for myself, I believe my passion in life has grown and changed as I have grown and changed. When I was a stay home mom raising my children, my life passion was to be the best mother that I could be.
Nothing was more important to me than fulfilling my role as a mother. And if you are a parent, you know that there is no harder job.
But after my children were raised and gone, I had to spend some time with myself and do some soul searching.....But I didn't have to search too long.....
Sure, I've worked different jobs over the years, did they make me happy?..Yes, they made me happy..
Did I enjoy working those jobs?...Yes I did...

But was I just working for the sake of working, or was I living my passion? If I am honest I would have to say that I was working for the sake of working and not living my passion. I quickly found out that if I wasn't living my passion, I was following someone else's dreams.
It wasn't until the last couple of years that I realized that my passion, my love, my irresistible motive for a belief was right in front of my nose..(literally),
My love of raw food and what I call the raw lifestyle.

The reason I know that it is my passion is because I think about it 24/7 in some shape form of fashion...When I wake up in the middle of the night I'm thinking about it. I talk about it constantly. I never stop expanding my knowledge of the subject and I can't wait to share what I have learned with anyone that will listen. Eating raw, and living this raw lifestyle has changed my life more than anything...ever!!!

And now my passion has become my work....I am using my passion to help change lives!! People are seeking me out to learn through a guided program how to improve their lives by changing the way they eat and the way they think. I am seeing them lose weight, find happiness, receive emotional and physical healing and improve the quality of their lives.
This isn't work for me, it is sheer JOY!!!

In June my daughter Hannah, who owns Give Yoga Memphis, in Memphis Tn and I are holding our first of many weekend workshops on Introduction to Raw Food and Kundalini Yoga.

I have also started writing a book about my life, and all the amazing events that have happened to me to bring me to where I am today. My hope for this book is that it will inspire and motivate readers to live their truth, follow their hearts, and live their passion!!

So what is on your mind 24/7? What do you think about, talk about, eat, drink, and breathe? That would be your passion....what are you doing with that passion? Zero in on your passion and make it your life work, instead of working at something you don't love just to make a life....Do your own soul searching and find your passion in life..the world is waiting for you to share....

This post is dedicated to my amazing children, they live their passions everyday and never stop inspiring me....

Topsy Turvy

2010-05-17T07:41:00.000-07:00

For those of us that do not have the space for a garden or maybe you just don't own a rototiller, you will be excited to know that you can still grow a few of your own organic vegetables with a device called a Topsy Turvy. My plan for the post this week was to show you step by step with pictures how I put my tomato and red pepper plants in my Topsy Turvy. But the week got away and no pictures were made and then I ended up going out of town with my husband for 5 days....So this week you just get to hear about it and hopefully next week you can actually see the pictures. But until then, I thought you might enjoy this instructional video from youtube.

I love the Topsy Turvy because it's an easy way to grow tomatoes, along with red and green peppers. I think I use more tomatoes and red peppers than any other vegetables, except maybe zucchini. But zucchini doesn't grow in one of these.

As she said you just buy the Topsy Turvey, (check with Home Depot, or Lowes) place your plant through the bottom hole, roots on the inside. Then fill it up with organic potting soil, and then water. After you get it put together find a place to hang it that has adequate sun and wow, watch it grow!!!

I love eating fresh vegetables that I have grown!!! The taste is so amazing...

So if you want to get your hands dirty with a little do it yourself organic gardening, try out a Topsy Turvy!

Give it a try, and see what you think.....

Until next time,

Jan

Shea Butter

2010-05-11T07:08:00.000-07:00

Okay, so 2 weeks ago I ordered a tub of raw organic Shea Butter from Africa.....Wow!!! It has far surpassed what I was expecting.....The butter arrived in a clear plastic tub and looked like some form of puddy or paste with a light yellow color. I couldn't wait to stick my hand down in the tub and scoop up a big glob and slather it all over my skin, and scoop away I did. I absolutely love it!!! I have to ask myself ,"why haven't I been using this product for the last 20 years"??????!! I can't get enough of it...

Shea Butter is extracted from the Shea-Karite tree in Africa, which doesn't even bear fruit till after 15 years, and some trees take up to 30 years to bear a quality crop that has a high quantity of irremovable fatty acids.
The fats are what give the butter it's amazing unique healing properties and makes it superior to coconut butter or other vegtable butters.

Shea Butter nourishes the skin with vitamin A and E and F. These vitamins help with any sun damage and it helps with premature wrinkles and facial lines. Vitamin F acts as a skin rejuvenator and protector. It soothes chapped, dry, rough skin, and adds an incredible softness. This is due to the high content of unsaponifiables (a type of fat).

I normally use olive oil on my skin, but now that I have my hands on this raw organic Shea Butter, my life is going down a new road. Ahhhhhhh.....I am so excited about my new find.

I put the butter on my skin twice a day. You will have to get used to the thickness of the butter, it's really more like a paste than a butter. I put it on at night and my skin is so supple when I get up in the morning.
(I only put it on my face at night, because it is too thick for me for daytime.)

O and I forgot, the 1 lb tub that I ordered only cost me $6.15 plus shipping. Now that's a bargin!!
I ordered it through Amazon from Renee's Online Store. I will have to say that it does take a couple of days to ship after you place your order, but be patient if you order some from this site, you will get your product.

So if you have dry skin, or just need a moisturizer that really moisturizes, try it and see what you think. Now, it does have a distinct scent, but I have gotten used to it.

Don't take my word for it, go ahead and get some, and see for yourself...then let me know.

Until next time,

Jan

Reverse Aging...Is it really possible?

2010-05-04T07:35:00.000-07:00

My answer to this question would be YES!!! Based on everything that I have read, and all that Iam personally experiencing!!

First of all, reversing the aging process is possible because the body is designed to heal and repair itself.....along with the aid of proper nutrition. There are 2 vital materials which are needed , energy and raw material....
These are needed to maintain our cells proper function.
The body is made up of cells, and all cells are living.
All living things need food! What we eat or don't eat is the biggest contributor to the aging process!
Cells die and replace themselves at various intervals, so to understand anti-aging, you need to know that when a cell replaces itself it has 3 options...........

1) DEGENERATION-When a cell replaces itself with a weaker cell-this will happen if the body doesn't have the right nutritional foods-

2) SAME CELL REPLACEMENT-This happens when a cell replaces itself with the same strenghth cell, but this means that the body doesn't improve-considered to have a chronic condition

3) REGENERATION-When your cells replace themselves with a stronger and better cell. This will happen only if the cell has an abundance of energy and the right raw materials-This is the place where reverse aging takes place...

In order for your cells to regenerate and reverse the aging process, you must eat the food that contributes to regeneration and not to degeneration.

So check out the list of foods that are causing you to age because they weaken and toxify your cells:

SUGAR
HOMOGINZED MILK AND CHEESE
CAFFINE
CIGARETTES
WHITE FLOUR
MICROWAVEABLE FOOD
ARTIFICIAL SWEETNERS

PROCESSED FOOD
ADDITIVES
MEAT
MSG
MARGARINE
CHIPS
FRENCH FRIES
EGGS
GENITCALLY MODIFIED FOOD(ABOUT 50% OF ALL SOY AND CORN)
FOODS WITH LEVELS OF MERCURY-FISH
OILS THAT ARE NOT COLD PRESSED

Okay, don't freak out on me, some of you are probably saying, O man that looks like stuff I eat everyday!!
I definitely could say that of days gone by. Some might be wondering what is left to eat???
Well here is the list of foods that contribute to your optimum health and reverse aging...

FRESH FRIUT
FRESH GREEN VEGTABLES
RAW SEEDS OR NUTS SOAKED AND SPROUTED OR DEHYDRATED
BROWN RICE...SOAKED FOR 22 HRS (BECOMES AN ALKALINE)
GOJI BERRIES
BEE POLLEN
BLUE GREEN ALGAE

SEAWEED
WHEAT GRASS
ALOE  VERA
OLIVE OIL
EVENING PRIMROSE
ROYAL JELLY
MACA
RAW CHOCOLATE
COLD PRESSED OILS
HEMP SEEDS
RAW COCONUT OIL
MARINE PHYOPLANKTON

AND OF COURSE, SOME FORM OF EXERCISE, THAT GOES WITHOUT SAYING!

So in the list of food that contributes to anti- aging there really is a lot of variety-All different types of vegtables and friuts, nuts, etc. There are so many vegan and raw cookbooks out and online, with amazing ideas of how to put together foods that increase the quality of your life and reverse the aging process. They will be a must when you make the choice to begin to eliminate the foods that are contributing to aging, sickness and disease. Also check out my blog rolls, these blogs on raw and vegan lifestyles are very helpful and informative.

These food lists are not just someones idea, they have been researched and scientifically proven.

The truth of matter is, "THE FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH" or "THE FOUNTAIN OF AGING" all comes down to you, and what you choose to eat. It's all in the regeneration of your cells!! For decades we have believed that we can do whatever we want, eat and drink what ever we want, then when we get older we can just take some vitamins and buy some expensive anti-aging, anti-wrinkle creams and abra kadabra, we look like we did in our 20's and 30's.

Just look around and you will know that isn't happening...

What a concept....reversing the signs of aging naturally instead of resorting to a plastic surgeon!!!

I have spent the last year slowly elimating all the foods that contribute to aging and sickness and disease.
It has transformed my life.....Like I continue to say...I have not been sick one day in over a year, not even a runny nose. My skin and hair definitely reflect the change I have made, I am happy, healthy and full of energy!! What more could I ask for????

Meat...Some facts you might not know

2010-04-27T22:52:00.000-07:00

In preperation for a Introduction to raw foods workshop that I am doing in June I ran across some very interesting facts about "meat". So I thought I would share this information with my readers.

I think the most asked question I receive when people find out that I eat a raw food diet is"what do you do about getting enough protein if you are not eating meat?" In my mind I am so glad they asked because it just opens the door to share a lot of great infromation.

Actually if the truth be told...most meat is 75% fat and somewhere around 15-18% protien.

Shocking,,,, but bee pollen and blue green algae are complete protein sources. Blue green algae contains 60% protein which is easily digested by the body as compared to meat which is very very difficult for the body to digest. And bee pollen contains all 22 essential amino acids and is an energy rich source of complete protein.

Here are a few facts to think about before ordering that next grilled chicken, steak or ribs...

In a research study by Paavo Airola (nutritionist, naturalpathic physician, educator, and award winning lecturor) he discoverd that overconsumption of meat protein contributes to the creation and cause of most common diseases....

Kidney damage
Arthritis
Cancer
Heart disease
Atherosclerosis
Schizophrenia
just to name a few..........

Other research has linked high meat intake with organ, tissue, and cell degeneration and premature aging...

High meat intake creates Amyloid....a by product of protein metabolism. When this is deposited in the connective tissues it causes cell and tissue degeneration, which contributes to the aging process!!!!

The metabolic combustion of high meat intake produces the by product ammonia.....which is directly toxic to the body. It has been proven to create free radical damage and cross linking (a process associated with wrinkles and aging). It also depletes the body of energy.

Another danger of high meat intake is osteoporosis....Meat is much higher in phosphorus than plant food.
The high phosphorus in meat draws the calcium out of the bones which creates a loss in bone density.

Also the meat is high in fat and the fat blocks the calcium uptake.

Female vegetarians have only 7% bone loss as compared to nonvegetarian which have 35%.

These are only a few of the reasons that I have chosen an all plant diet....

We can get every vitamin, mineral, and protein that we need from a plant based diet.

I will be 55 on my next birthday and I have slowly converted to a raw diet....I started out vegetarian, then vegan, and then to a completely raw diet. Personaly speaking I feel better, look better and definitely act better. I have lost a good amount of weight, my skin is clear and glowing and I have energy for 10.

When you are eating a plant based diet you are as close to nature as possible...I don't know how we got so far away from nature and it's rich sources of food, and replaced it with eating factory farmed meat.

I encourage everyone to do their own research...don't stick your head in the sand, and continue to feel bad, have low energy and fight sickness and disease. There is a better way to eat. and Im living proof!!!

Until next time,

Jan

Earth Day....Celebrate and Give Back

2010-04-22T09:11:00.000-07:00

Since today is Earth Day I wanted to share a quote that I ran across

that pretty much sums up how I feel about the day and life in general!

Happy Earth Day! : "When we look at an orange tree we see that

season after season it spends its life

producing beautiful green leaves, fragrant blossoms, and sweet oranges.

These are the best things an orange tree can create and offer

to the world. Human beings also make offerings to the world every

moment of our daily lives, in the form of our thoughts, our speech and

our actions. We may want to offer the world the best kinds of thought,

speech, and action that we can—because they are our continuation,

whether we want it to be so or not. We can use our time wisely,

generate the energies of love, compassion, and understanding, say

beautiful things, inspire, forgive, and act to protect and help the

Earth and each other. In this way, we can ensure a beautiful

continuation." Thich Nhat Hanh....

So take some time today in honor of Earth day and make sure you are doing

everything within your own personal power to be responible for the space of Earth that you occupy!!

Until next time,

Jan

Bottled Water...What you don't know!

2010-04-16T22:38:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I was fortunate to be able to attend the movie "Tapped". All I can say is I was shocked at what I saw. This documentary totally exposes the bottled water industry. I can honestly say that I was one of those Americans that bought into the idea of bottled water, hook, line, and sinker. In our home we always had bottled water-tap water was a no, no!

But after seeing the movie, I can no longer buy into the whole bottled water idea. I first have to ask myself-
why am I buying water? Just turn on my water faucet and fill up my own personal water bottle!! If you don't like your tap water, then you couldn't like the bottled water distributed by Nestle, Coke, or Pepsi ( Nestle purified water, Dasani, and Aquafina)-because tap water is what is in those bottles of water that you are paying $1.00 to $2.00 dollars for. The only difference is, you pay for the water that comes out of your faucet, and these big corporations don't pay for the water that they take from the municipal water source. So needless to say, back in 2008 when the movie was filmed, the bottled water business was raking in 11.5 BILLION DOLLARS in profit!!!

While these corporations are making billions, our local water sources are being depleted at an alarming rate.
Only 20% of the plastic bottles make it to a recycling bin, so the majority of the plastic bottles end up in the ocean. This is causing major problems with marine life and the eco system.

But one of the most alarming facts that I learned from the movie is that the plastic bottles are made from chemicals that cause cancer-that is not a theory-that is fact....So you have plastic bottles with cancer causing ingredients that seep into the water inside the bottle and then we drink it and not only that, we give it to our children, friends and family.

So please take the time and rent this movie and be responsible for your water source and your enviroment.
We can make a difference.....buy your own personal water bottle and fill up your own bottle. Stop contributing to the bottom line of these big corporations!!!

For more information on our drinking water please check out The water filter lady's blog that has been added to my blog roll...www.purestdrinkingwater.blogspot.com.

Until next time,

Jan

Diabetes and the Raw Food Diet

2010-04-10T21:15:00.000-07:00

Im sure all of us know at least one person that has diabetes.....

This week as I was reading about the disease and I ran across a documentary by Dr Gabriel Cousens on curing diabetes with a raw diet, and I wanted to share a 5 min section from the movie. Personally I had no idea that diabetes was such an epidemic, but I was very happy to see what can happen to diabetics on a 30 raw diet....Watch for yourself.

Since I wasn't quite sure the causes of diabetes, I had to do some research....
In the most simple terms, diabetes is a metabolism disorder refering to the way our bodies use digested food for energy and growth. Most of what we eat is broken down into glucose, a form of sugar in the blood.
When the glucose makes its way to the bloodstream our cells use it for energy and growth. Insulin must be present in order for the glucose to enter the cells. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas. When you eat, the pancreas automatically releases an adequate amount of insulin to move the glucose from our bloodstream to our cells and lower the blood sugar level.

A person with diabetes has elevated quantities of glucose. This is because the body does not produce enough insulin, or no insulin, or the cells are not responding to the insulin that the pancreas is producing-the result, too much glucose in the bloodstream that eventually passes out through the body. The result, the cells are not getting their energy and growth. Long term effects of diabetes could lead to cardiovascular diease,chronic kidney failure, nerve damage, and possibly as extreme as amputation for gangrene.

I am not a doctor, nor do I expect anyone to take this blog as the gospel-
but what I do know is that if I had a condition like diabetes, and I knew that there were people being healed by changing their diet, I would certainly take a hard look at other alternatives, instead of a life being dependent on perscription drugs. Please take some time and do your own research, and see what you find out....then pass it on..

Until next time,

Jan

Raw diet featured on Tyra Banks show!

2010-04-05T20:18:00.000-07:00

The other day I was on youtube and decided check out raw diets....
I ran across a piece from the Tyra Banks show and thought you would be
interested in taking a peek...

My favorite line, "it's like turning back the hands of time"!

The raw diet does all that and more!

Let me know what you think.....

Until next time.

Jan

Thoughts for the week!

2010-03-28T20:31:00.000-07:00

I ran across a book in by bookcase this week that I bought years ago . The name of the book is "The Secrect of The Ages" by Robert Collier. I picked it up and started reading it this week and ran across a section that I thought would be something that we all could relate to, so here goes, read and enjoy.

" Every condition, every experience of life is the result of our mental attitude. We can do only what we think we can do. We can be only what we think we can be. We can have only what we think we can have. What we do, what we are, what we have, all depend upon what we THINK.....

We can never express anything that we do not first have in mind. The secret of all power, all success, all riches, is in first thinking powerful thoughts, successful thoughts, thoughts of wealth, of supply. We must build them in our own mind first.

William James, the famous psychologist, said that the greatest discovery in a hundred years was the discovery of the power of the subconscious mind. It is the greatest discovery of all time. It is the discovery that man has within himself the power to control his surroundings, that he is not at the mercy of chance or luck, that he is the arbiter of his own fortunes, that he can carve out his own destiny. He is the master of all the forces round about him. As James Allen puts it: "Dream lofty dreams, and as you dream, so shall you become. Your vision is the promise of what you shall one day be; your Ideal is the prophecy of what you shall at last unveil.""

So what I personally take from this quote is thinking is creating......Everything created began with a thought...

We are a product of our thoughts....good, bad, or indifferent.

If you doubt this, the next time you are down or depressed, or unhappy, stop and check out what has been going through your mind for the 30 minutes or hour prior to feeling that way. Our emotions are directly tied in to our thoughts. The same goes for happy, excited, or joyful feelings...

Look around your life, and if you don't like what is going on, work on changing your thoughts and bringing them in line with what you do want. Also if you do like what is going on, keep the creative juices flowing!

Take time this week and practice being present with yourself and your thoughts....Check out your life and see what YOU have created.....

You will gain a wealth of infromation.....

Until next time,

Jan

CHAKRAS

2010-03-20T22:22:00.000-07:00

The Chakra System

Chakras can be described as spinning wheels of light. There are seven main chakras that begin at the base of the spine and end at the crown of the head. They are found in the aura, an electromagnetic force field which surrounds every living being. Each chakra governs specific body parts, emotions, mental attitudes, and spiritual concerns. The work of the chakra is to translate information from the universe into the body in a language we can understand. Chakra imbalances are created in the body through negative or fearful thoughts, stress, guilt,or trauma, and left unbalanced will eventually manifest as physical illness.
There are very few healing methods available to help us bring the imbalanced energies back into balance. But one method that I use personally are chakra bags.
There are 7 different bags that contain chakra specific organic herbs, organic essential oils, crystals gemstones, and color for the healing and balancing of each different chakra.

These bags are tools to awaken and balance the chakras. Balancing our chakras enables us to discover more about our individual and collective purpose, heal our lives, and fulfill our true potential. The chakra bags heighten and intensify spiritual awareness. By working with these bags you can improve relationships with family, friends, lovers, partners, and colleagues. These chakra bags aid in releasing blockages around such issues as fear, guilt, doubt, trust, sex, love, money, and connection to spirit. They will help you find greater satisfaction in your work, and increase clarity by nurturing the courage to make life changes. In addition, these chakra bags enhance confidence and improve physical health to create radiance and vitality. The chakra specific crystals, gemstones, organic herbs, organic essential oils, and organic fabric resonate and vibrate with the same frequency of a perfectly balanced chakra system.
Directions: Lie on your back and place the bags on the correlating chakras, gemstone side down, to receive the vibrational medicine and the chakra alignment. Repeat daily for maximum support.

If you want more information or you would like to purchase your own personal bags, contact Melissa Massey.....the creator of the chakra healing bags.

Melissa has spent over 10 years creating and perfecting this chakra healing method, and has used her bags to successfully bring healing and balance to many many people.

Feel free to contact her at superspunirtha@gmail.com

Until next time,

Jan

Food for thought.....

2010-03-12T16:52:00.000-08:00

Well, Im happy to say that after 15 years of being with my husband he has finally chosen to go vegetarian!!
For those of you that are raw, vegetarian, or vegan and have a significant other that does not eat the same diet as you, or even close, understand that it can be very challeging and upsetting when you watch someone you love eat food that has no nutritional value and is damaging their health....But this little movie Food Inc. definitly sealed the deal for him......

I know that Im a little behind most of you as far as watching the documentary Food Inc., but Keith and I finally watched it last week and WOW, such an eye opener, especially if you are one that is still eating animal meat. So I can't let this week go by without giving some facts and information from the movie. I would reccomend everyone watch this film!!

The purpose of the film was to educate people to trace the food they buy back to it's source.
In 1970 5 meat packing companies controlled 25% of the market....
Today 4 companies controll 80% of the market....Tyson-Swift-Cargill-and National beef
Tyson is the largest meat packing company in the HISTORY of the WORLD!!!!
They have changed the entire way that chickens are raised....
In 1950 it took 70 days to raise a chicken.. In 2008-48 days, BUT TWICE AS BIG!!!
So much of this is because of genitically monitered corn....

30% of our land is farmed for corn, driven and backed by the government.
This corn is used to feed the factory farmed cows, chickens, and pigs, and is in 90% of the products on the grocery store shelf , in the form of high fructose-maltodextrin-xanthum gum-gluten-sucrose-fructose-sorbic acid..
Some of the everyday products are: Ketchup, OJ, Motrin, Coke, Cheese Its, Twinkies, Peanut Butter,
Jelly, Salad dressing, and FAST FOOD.
Of course all of this sugar in our food contributes to the obesity epidemic that our country is experiencing...

Since corn is subsidized by the government, it is sold below the price of production, to keep the factory farming up and running, to provide meat to the public to the tune of an average of 200 lbs of meat per person, per year!!! And never mind that cows are not designed by evolution to eat corn, they are designed to eat grass!!!! (Thats a whole other blog on the effects of corn on factory farmed animals)!

If you have never witnessed what goes on in our American factory farms-you must see this film..They were able to get into the actual factories and film the terrible conditions that these animals exsist in prior to going to slaughter and ending up in your grocery and on your table. It's estimated that there could be over a thousand different cows meat ground up ,( healthy, sick, or dying,) in the making of one hamburger that ends up on your plate.

So if 80% of the meat packing industry is controlled and monopolized by 4 companies, a lot of people feel hopeless for change. But there are many things we can do as consumers to bring about the necessary change.

First and far most: Educate yourself on the adverse effects of meat to the human body.
Investigate the positive outcome for yourself by becoming a vegetarian, vegan, or  raw foodist.
                             Buy from companies that treat their workers, animals and enviroment with respect.
                             Buy foods at your grocery that are in season.
                             Buy organic.
                             Read labels

                             Buy foods that are locally grown.
                             Shop at a farmers market.
                             Plant your own garden.

And know that everyone has the right to healthy food!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have only covered a fraction on this huge topic. Hopefully it has raised enough self intrest to make you do your own investigation.

Until next,

Jan

Medicine from Flowers.....

2010-03-03T09:36:00.000-08:00

BACH FLOWER THERAPY

Bach Flower Therapy is a form of energy medicine....It can be used to help ease daily stress , calm anxious feelings , mood swings and help reduce frustration and anger. They are designed to help with any negative emotional state......

The "remedy: consists of' water that has been patterned with the energetic vibrations of one of 38 different flowers. (Flowers have the highest vibration of any plant)
They are not medicinal and can be taken along with any food, herb or medicine without causing any interaction.
Bach's treat the unhealthy emotional tendency. They do not act preventatively like medicine or vitamins, but more like a process that undoes a energetic knot.
For example.....Someone can be experiencing a lot of stress from their job to the point that it keeps them awake at night, and possibly being bothered with minor anxiety attacks during the day-taking the Bach's Flowers may help in the short run by settling the mind so one can sleep and calming the anxiety during the day.

Bach's Flower therapy can be used safely as a self help tool by any one-infants, pregnant or nursing mothers, the elderly and even people with allergies to flowers!! The flower preperations have been used succesfully in Britian since the 1930's.....

Here are some of the negative emotions that can be addressed by Bach's Flower Therapy...
vague anxieties, specific phobias, procrastination, worry, irritability, rage, sadness, despair, hoplessness, despair, uncertainty, self-doubt, shyness, daydreaming....the list goes on and on.

I discovered the flower essence about a year ago-and I can truely say that they work...

Check out http://www.bachcentre.com/ and it will list all 38 remedis and what emotional state each one is directed to.

From my experience with taking them, I have found that they gently restore the balance between mind and body by casting out negative emotions, which interfere with the equilibrium of the being as a whole. Rememdies allow peace and happiness to return to the sufferer so that the body is free to heal itself.

But don't just take my word for it, give them a try. You can purchase them at any Whole Foods.
I order mine on line from vitacost.com-they sell them for quite a bit less.

The bottles have the directions on the side. A few drops in some water several times a day-pretty easy-I actually just squirt the drops in my mouth without the water-either way, it works.

So if you struggle with anxiety, anger, self doubt, sadness or any of the other negative emotions,
help yourself out and make your life easier with the simple help of flowers.

PS,,,If you start taking them just be diligent and consistent.

until next time,

Jan

Coconut....Superfood #4

2010-02-26T14:17:00.000-08:00

Ahhh the coconut....

Back before I ate raw I LOVED fresh coconut cake... I mean loved it!!!!! I would eat anything cooked that had coconut...Coconut shrimp, pie. cookies,etc....
Little did I know that raw coconut was considered a superfood, and had amazing health benefits!

So why is coconut considered a superfood you ask....Well from what I can uncover....

Coconut in sansckrit ( ancient language of India), is known as the tree that supplies all that is needed to live. WOW!!!
Coconut water is almost identical to human blood plasma, which makes it a universal donor.

The "meat" of the coconut has the ability to rejuvinate age-related oxidative tissue damage-helps prevent aging and degenerate diseases.

Improves the functioning of the nervous system
Very useful in weight loss, because it increases the metabolism.

Also strenghtens the immune system and improves digestion.

You can actually apply topically to a bruise or wound and helps with the healing.

For women who are concerned about their calcium being absorbed-coconut will help your body absorb what ever form of calcium that you are taking.

I buy organic coconut oil and add it to my morning smoothies-about 2 tbl.. I keep the oil in my refigerator, so it is in a hardened state when I am scooping it out, but will dissolve in the blender.

I haven't been buying fresh coconuts yet, but that is on my list of to do's-After researching the benefits of the coconut water, I am ready to learn how to pop a hole into the shell and insert a straw and drink the water......

These are only a very few benifits of the coconut....it would take many blogs to list them all!

And to be honest, besides all the health benefits of coconuts-the raw truth is, it just makes me feel like Im on a tropical vacation every morning when I open the jar of coconut oil and smell that incredible smell...

So if you haven't tried out the superfood COCONUT, take a little trip to Whole Foods or your grocery store and pick up a couple of coconuts and drink some juice or add coconut oil to your smoothie and let me know what you think!!!

Untill next time,

Jan

Bee Pollen # 3 Superfood

2010-02-18T20:46:00.000-08:00

BEE POLLEN.......

Bee Pollen is one of the most complete foods found in nature......

So you ask "what exactly is bee pollen?"
Bee pollen is the dust-sized seed found on the stamens of all flower blossoms...The bees collect the dust on their legs as they go from flower to flower. Bees secrete nectar and special enzymes into the flower powder to create what is known as bee pollen. The dust is collected off the bees by a special device placed at the entrance of the bee hive that brushes from the hind legs of the bees into a collection vessel.

Well now you ask"what is in bee pollen?"
Bee pollen contains just about everything-that is why it is a superfood!
It contains 22 amino acids, vitamin C and B complex, enzymes and and all the major antioxidants that have so far been discovered!!! WOW!!!! With one spoonfull you begin to eradacate free radicals from your body. It also has trace minerals iron, zinc,maganese, copper,calcium, magnisium and potassium....
Bee Pollen contains every single nutrient that is needed to sustain human life. It is 40% protien, nearly all of which is usable by the body without any further breakdown or metabolism-So here we go saving our energy and digestion enzymes!! All that in one little spoonfull....

Of course the next question on everyones mind is "what will it do for me?"

Bee Pollen will boost your immune system...
Build resistance to allergies...
Helps to cope with stress...
INCREASE ENERGY AND ENDURANCE........
Assists in reversing aging and wrinkling....

I absolutely love love love bee pollen...You will have energy coming out of your finger tips!!!!
I put bee pollen in my morning smoothies.....
It can be purchased at Whole Foods or online.

If you have never tried it run and get some....you will not be dissappointed!!!!

until next time,

Jan

Spirulina Superfood #2

2010-02-12T21:27:00.000-08:00

Today I was watching a couple of daytime tv shows and the topic of the shows was "Superfoods".
I m not at all surprised at the attention they are getting due to the amazing results that come from these superfoods.

SPIRULINA..........

Spirulina is a single-celled blu-green spiral algae. It grows in lakes and waterways around the world.

It's green color comes from chlorophyll and the exotic blue color comes from phycocyanian. Spirulina has a long history of helping to sustain and develop the food chain.

Why is Spirulina so good for us?

* It has the highest concentration of protein found in any food-65-71 percent protein.
*An amazing source of natural enzymes, chlorophyll, and pytonutrients.
* Complete source of protein-It contains all eight essential amino acids, and eighteen total.
* It contains as much iron as red meat.
* Contains the following antioxidants: Beta-carotene,:Increases life span and builds the immune system.
    Chlorophyll: blood builder and purifier
     Zeaxanthin: the most important antioxidant for improving vision.
* Best known source of GLA-gamma-linolenic acid: essential fatty acid for a healthy nervouse system.
    Because it is a fatty acid it makes ones skin and hair shinny and strong but soft.

Okay, so Im thinking that you get the picture as to why this algae is considered a superfood.
I get Spirulina in powder form (pure hawaiian) and add it to my smoothies-but you can buy it in tablet form also.
For raw foodies, vegatarians and vegans, it is a perfect source of protein.
Also a great source of iron for anyone that is iron deficient.

So check it out and do your body a favor and add Spiralina to your diet-it will only benefit you!

Keep checking back 8 more to go......

Until next time,

Jan

Medicine of the Future

2010-02-04T20:10:00.000-08:00

No, I m not talking about perscription drugs.... Im talking about Superfoods!

For those of you who may not be familiar with the term Superfoods, Im here to let you in on one of natures most incredible gifts....Foods that prevent sickness and also heal. They are rich vibrant foods that promote excellent nutrition, health, beauty, radiance, and well being.

Maca...Peruvian Aphrodisiac....

Maca has been growing in the Peruvian Andes of South America for over 2000 years. It is grown at altitudes of 9 to 12 thousand feet above sea level! It is grown for the root which resembles the radish but is off white or yellow in color. The root is so hearty that it can withstand extreme cold or hot weather. The Andes shamans say" when the maca is consumed the spirits are close"

The benifits of maca are almost too numerous to name.........

Probably what maca is best known for is it's reputation for being an adaptogen.... which means its ability to balance and stabilize the body's endocrine, nervous, and cardiovascular systems. An adaptogen was first defined in 1947 by a russian scientist, Nikolai Lazarev as a nutritive substance that counters adverse physical, chemical or biological sources of stress by raising nonspecific resistance, allowing the organism to adapt to stressfull circumstances...
In David Wolf's book "Superfoods" he states " According to research, maca as an adaptogenic superfood increases energy, endurance, oxygen in the blood, physical strength, neurotransmitter production, and libido. It supports the endocrine system, the adrenals, and the thyroid, typically improves one's mood and helps support healthy hormone production."
Maca does not contain hormones itself, but provides a unique set of nutrients that directly fuel the endocrine system and help the glands to produce vital hormones in precise dosages predetermined by one's own body.
Aside from all that it :
Increases energy and endurance
Alleviates chronic exhaustion
Boost the Libido
Reduces hormonal dysfunction during menopause
Reduces PMS
Aids in alleviating depression
Speeds up wound healing and reduces anemia

WOW!!!! Ill take a triple dose!!!

The endocrine system (adrenal glands,thyroid, pancreas, thymus,hypothalamus, and ovaries) are deeply connected to the immune system. So if the the endocrine system is in balance, your immune system will be in balance and you will stay well and healthy.

I have been taking maca for over 2 years and I swear by it!! I buy it in powder form (organic and genlantinzed). I also give it to my husband eveyday. It works the same for men and women.
I have been buying maca from starwest-botanicals.com, it's alittle pricey for the amount that I take a day, so I am searching for other organic distributors.

I mix 2-3 teaspoons in some cranberry juice 2 to 3 times a day. It tastes like butterscotch to me. You have to shake it up in a container to get it to completely dissolve or otherwise it is lumpy.

What I personally get from maca is a feeling of energy, well being, and increased libido. It really seems to mellow me out and life is just really good!! For women who are menopausal, it balances out your hormones and diminishes the effects of hot flashes, night sweats and moodiness. Maca has been used to enhance fertility in people and animals.
I reccomend it to everyone I know!!!
So if you are lacking energy, libido, or just feeling somewhat depressed, go and buy some and get started down a different path-even if you are not lacking any of that-get some-you will only enhance your life!

Start out with 1-2 teaspoons a day, and then increase it as you see fit-Maca has not shown any signs of toxicity or adverse effects in the studies that have been done-In animal studies the more maca that was consumed the stronger the libido!!!!!

Keep checking back we have 9 more super foods to explore!

Until next time......

Jan

Eden's real raw story........

2010-01-31T19:20:00.000-08:00

When I started school this year I weighed 100 pounds. I am an 11 year old sixth grader, and I am 5'2 ".
I began to eat school lunches and at the end of the second quarter I weighed 130 pounds (just shows you
what school lunches can do to you) . Meanwhile my mom was doing this raw diet and she was nearing my weight. She had just had a baby and was losing her pregnancy weight on the raw diet. I wasn’t worried because I distributed my weight very well in my hips and thighs, and also because I am tall for my age, but my diet wasn’t healthy. I also wasn’t getting much exercise except for gym class, I had to think of a plan and fast!

My mother, aunt and, grandmother were all doing raw. One night after eating a big pasta dinner, I
awoke to find that I had PUPPY FAT, it was the last straw I was going raw. By the time I decided to go
raw my mom weighed ten pounds less than me. We made a plan for lunch at school. I would pack a salad
with a side of honey mustard, air popped pop corn, raw nuts and dried fruit. I will post pictures as I continue lose weight and improve my health.

For the longest time I have had asthma, but now I’m taking everything out of my diet that could make my asthma worse ( like wheat ) I hope to grow out of it soon. Hi my name is Eden Massey I hope to be an inspiration to children everywhere who can’t lose weight. Well here’s a way, this is what works for me.

Keep checking back...... I will continue to blog about my progress!!!

Shining the light

Eden

Green Juice

2010-01-20T17:05:00.000-08:00

High Octane Green Juice
4-5 rainbow chard leaves
3-4 collard green leaves
4 apples
1 lemon with peel
1 inch of ginger
All the ingredients through the juicer, stir and enjoy.

The combination of apple, ginger, and lemon create a sweet and tart taste to counter the taste of the green leaf. It is delicious! It makes drinking greens a very enjoyable experience, if not an addictive one. I believe in mixing raw food all the time, changing up what I blend or juice. Eating seasonal produce that only comes around once a year is fun to do. I just found the prettiest light purple kale. Last week I found black kale. For juicing these days, I am really enjoying the recipe at the top. The rainbow chard is packed with chlorophyll, I can feel the light when I drink it. The collard greens are the same. Drinking juice that is so filled with live enzymes and organic hydration brings feelings of clarity, radiance, and positivity. The chlorophyll or the light helps you to see what is real and what is important, cutting through the foam.

The food we put in our body has a direct affect on our mood and our behaviour. This is a great reason to choose a raw food life style. We can depend on raw food to digest which helps to keep our attitude positive. We can also count on raw food to simply make us feel good. Cooked food cannot digest very easily beause the digestive enzymes are dead Therefore, this waste sits in the body, very heavy. This heaviness is linked to a heaviness in mood. These moods can create heavy patterns. Patterns create beliefs. Then we become what we believe. All the while by simply changing our food and the way we view food, we can harness our own power. The power to bring us back to into our light and lively, fun and happy self. It is right there beneath sugar, dairy, meat, and processed renditions of food, insulting our intelligence for all its worth. Organic raw food, juice, and smoothies are our birthright. We are all worth it. Go get a juicer and make one. You wont believe how much you are going to like it!

Just another tool in the toolbag. Helping to support times of higher vibrations and frequencies that are embodying all inhabitants on the planet right now. This is what this blog site is all about. Sharing our tools, because we believe life should be lived conscious, abundant, alive, and free!

keep it raw -
Melissa

Raw at 54

2010-01-14T03:03:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Mom

This is a tribute to my mother, the Real Raw Woman, on her 54th Birthday.

How Many Mornings

by Melissa Massey

How many mornings did you wake up before dawn

How many mornings did you lace up those tennis shoes before dawn

How many mornings did you sit in quiet still meditation, pranayama

How many mornings did you roll out your mat

How many mornings did you make 4 lunches

How many mornings did you take us to 4 schools

How many mornings did you make love to that first sip of coffee

How many mornings did you and Keith sit on your back deck and talk about life

How many mornings did you drink carrot juice

How many mornings did you down a handful of vitamins at once

How many mornings did you shine your "it's a brand new beautiful day" light

How many mornings did you carve Krishnamacharya's message into my soul

How many mornings did you never give up the eternal quest of true self

I measure success by how deeply you love and how deeply you are loved in return

Your life is a Total Success

what a beautiful life you have lived

take a look at what you have created over the years...

Hey Hannah, that cannot be your mom! She looks like she could be your sister.

Good times!

So many roads to lead me home - Grateful Dead

I am wishing that all your dreams come true this year.

We all love you so deeply, mom

Happy Birthday!

Surviving the Cold

2010-01-10T08:52:00.000-08:00

As we head more into winter I am finding that surrounding myself with things I love is very important. I am from the south and have not been around alot of snow, but last year we moved further north and today I am looking out my window at 6-7 inches of the beautiful white stuff on the ground and temperatures of 0 degrees. I think that the first day of newly fallen snow is awesome, but then as it lingers on the ground and you spend more time in the house than out, those overcast cold days begin to wear on you. So here are a few things that I do to stay sane.

1) When I open my eyes in the mornings and contemplate getting out of my extremely warm flannel sheets , I remind myself to be thankful for another day to live, breathe and love, and that I am truely blessed!

2) I snuggle with my sweet little dog Max and carry him down stairs-also very thankful for my pet and all the happiness that he brings me.

3) I light candles first thing in the morning and also late in the afternoon-lit candels create a beautiful aura as the sun is rising and setting.

I love the smell of hazelnut and pumpkin in the winter.......

4) Music! We can't get enough of it!! After I light my candels in the morning I turn on some awesome music-
and keep music playing in my house all day-even when Im gone I leave it on for Max!

5) I buy myself a dozen roses each week to put on my kitchen table-I thought Walmart had a deal at $10.00 a dozen-but I found them at Kroger last night for $8.80 a dozen-to me thats a deal! I usually buy the tropicana colored ones-I smile everytime I walk in my kitchen and see them sitting on my kitchen table.

6) It seems like that alot of people have been going through some rough times, so I try to send out encouraging notes and emails to help brighten peoples days, even when I am having a hard time-it always helps to give out from yourself to help someone else.

7) And of course I end my day with salt baths with essential oils........

So if you need a little winter time shift try out some flowers, candels, music and salt baths-but most of all a happy, positive thankful heart!

Until next time,

Jan

Choose Water

2010-01-04T11:36:00.000-08:00

I've talked to alot of people that have shared a desire to give up carbonated drinks,(soft drinks).

So I thought I would share alittle information that I came across that might help you make up your mind for good. Im not trying to frighten anyone, but nothing is better than information to guide us, and as I always say, don't take my word for it , research it yourself!

Here is a list of some of the toxic compounds found in soft drinks:
SUGAR
Back in the 1900's the average consumption of sugar was 1/2 lb per person per year; it's estimated now that we consume 180 lbs per person per year! The average soft drink has 10 teaspoons of sugar per drink.
ASPARTAME
For the diet soda drinkers;Aspartame is a low calorie artificial sweetner that has the effect of lowering your body's metabolisim and has been linked to depression, insomnia, migraines, and mood changes. For more information about artificial sweetners go to http://www.sweetpoison.com/ .
FOOD DYES
CARBONATION
Carbonation causes calcium loss in the bones
1) The carbonation irritates the stomach
2) The body responds by getting calcium from the blood to cure the irratation.
3) The blood becomes low on calcium, so it takes it away from your bones.
PHOSPHORIC ACID
This is the substance that causes the bubbly in the soft drink;(not the same as carbonation, which is carbon dixoide mixed with water.) This substance also depletes the body of calcium.
SALT
The salt in these bererages can reduce the amount of water in your cells-which leads to dehydration.
If you drink alot of sodas that may be reason for dehydrated skin.
This is just a drop in the bucket of the information that is available on the dangers of soft drinks.

I haven't had soft drinks in 6 years, and I used to be a diet soda addict, so I know that it is possible to quit, and be good to your body. Always remember we are what we eat and drink.

But the positive note is the benifits of water:
The National Institure of Health reports that 75% of Americans are chronically dehydrated-even mild dehydration slows down your metabolism, speeds up aging, and reduces resistance to disease.

The NIH reports also adds that daily water comsuption (8 glasses a day) reduces the risk of colon cancer by 45%, reduces the risk of breast cancer by 79%, and bladder cancer by 50%.
Water has no harsh chemicals, it hydrates your cells, improves your skin, and helps with weight loss!
The best way for me to drink plenty of water a day is not only through carrying water around everywhere I go, but also through juicing of green leafy vegtables, because of their water content.

It's really just a choice-choose water!

Until next time, google it, read about it, talk to a friend, then go out and do it!

Jan

Happy New Year!

2009-12-31T13:48:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a liberating year it has been!
I am thankful for so many things......To start with I am so thankful that my daughters and daughter in law have their own blogs and websites and deeply inspired me to create real raw women and share my love and ideas about living the raw lifestyle.... Hannah's website, http://www.giveyogamemphis.com/, Amy's blog, http://www.clickclackmom.com/, (which by the way she was just interviewed by the Tronto Tribuune for one of her posts)...very proud mom!!! My daughter Melissa writes for realrawwomen, and my daughter in law Megan's blog is http://www.prettyinpinkmegan/. All of these women are amazing in their own rights, and blogs, and I am so thankful that they are part of my life!

Moving forward into 2010 I plan to continue to inspire my readers to live life on a higher frequency.......

Even though the blog didn't get off the ground until November of this year, there was alot to digest......

How to begin to eat healthier and transition into a vegatarian, vegan or raw diet and all the beneifits through Natalia Rose's books....

Supplements, avocado masks, body brushes and eco friendly cleaners.....

You found out about dead sea salt baths, chocolate, MSM powder, juicing and Milk Thistle for saving your liver!!!!

Last but not least....how important it is for all of us to be responsible and RECYCLE and take care of our planet!!!

These posts are only a drop in the bucket to what is ahead in 2010!

Thank you all who have been a part of this journey with me....Looking forward to an amazing 2010!

Happy New Years to all! CHEERS!

Jan

Detox your liver for the New Year

2009-12-28T06:19:00.000-08:00

While I was at my daughter Hannah's house for Christmas, I noticed that she was taking an herb called Milk Thistle. I personally was not taking this herb, so I was very intrested in finding out it's benifits and properties. After researching Milk Thistle I came to the conclusion that this herb should be part of my daily regiment. I always encourage everyone to read and gather information for themselves, but I will give you alittle jumpstart to wet your appetite.
Milk Thistle is a member of the the sunflower family, the seeds hold the magic key. An active ingredient within the seeds is called silymarin, which is where the theraputic benifits derive from. One of the main benifits is it's antioxidant abilitiy, which is more potent than most vitamins.(Antioxidants remove free radicals....Free radicals cause cell damage which is the root of diease and premature Aging......)

But perhaps the most important benifit of Milk Thistle is the effects on the liver....and I don't know too many people that couldn't use some major benifits for their liver.
Milk Thistle detoxifies, and protects the liver from toxins and alcohol.
It promotes regeneration and repair of liver cells, and reverses liver damage.

Literally hundreds of research studies, mostly in Europe have confirmed the remarkable abitlity of Milk Thistle to protect the liver against virtually all types of damage, toxic side affects of medication, hepatitis, and our own self infliction and overindulgence of rich food and alcohol. The Europeans have been using the herb for over 2000 years.

You can buy Milk Thistle in liquid or pill form. I buy the liquid from The Vitamin Shoppe, but it can be purchased on line or at Whole Foods.

What a great way to start the New Year by being loving and kind to your body and organs. Then reap the benifits of a healthy productive liver which in turn produces beautiful vibrant skin and complexion.

Google it, read about it, talk to a friend, then go out and do it!

Until next time,

Jan

Recycling-It's what's hot this season

2009-12-22T15:33:00.001-08:00

Melissa put up this post last holiday season, and I thought it was definitely worth reposting!
What's Hot....Recycling
This time of year is so geared around consumerism and excess that we have to work extra hard to do our part. This year, lets all delight in recycling boxes, wrapping paper, Starbucks cups, food containers, and everything else that needs to be recycled.   It feels so rewarding to be responsible and sustainable. I know I harp on this a lot, but I consider the health of the planet the most fundamental of all issues. If any of you have children, know someone who does, or have ever even seen a child, you can understand how important this is.

I started recycling 10 years ago. My husband and I lived in an apartment without a garage.  I remember storing one months worth of recycling in our truck (with a topper).  We drove 3 hours round trip to the closest recycling center.  It was our monthly Sunday drive. Now, we live in a city that cares so much about recycling and being green. We can recycle everywhere, finally.  If it is very inconvenient in your city to recycle, then make a public stink about it. You would be surprised how much power you have to make changes.

What's Not Hot...Throwing away anything that can be recycled.

Recycling Facts
Recycling one ton of paper saves 17 trees, and saves energy equivalent to 185 gallons of gasoline. When recycling post consumer paper, 50% less energy is used, and 75% less water. Recycling reduces poisonous greenhouse gases. Recycling preserves the rainforest which is losing approximately 137 species EACH DAY due to de-forestation. The US has 5% of the worlds population, yet we produce half the world's trash.

Conscious Deliberation
I formerly worked in an office with 20+ employees. I was disgusted by the amount of paper being thrown away each day. So, I bought everyone a waste basket from the dollar store. They all complied, and I recycled heaps of paper daily with a huge smile.

Imagine a completely treeless, barren wasteland with dirty water...this is where we are headed, if we don't make ch ch ch ch changes!

Come on Everybody, It's Time

    Let's all set our New Year's Resolutions to be the greatest Recyclers we can be!

                 *******************   Happy Holidays   ********************

Keep it Raw -
Melissa

Chocolate-Jan's guilty pleasure!

2009-12-20T09:02:00.000-08:00

Wow, here we are winding down the year, and I can't think of a better time to talk about something in life that makes me very very HAPPY...............

CHOCOLATE.......just makes my day! Actually I love to eat chocolate after dinner at night...

There are sereral types of chocolate that are part of my daily diet.

Raw chocolate nibs and Dark chocolate bars...According to research studies dark chocolate-can lower high blood pressure, and has nearly twice the antioxidants of red wine and up to three times those found in green tea. Antioxidants protect the body from all those free radicals which speed up the aging process.

Chocolate also contains more magnesium than any other food. Magnesium is the number one mineral deficiency in the west. It is the most powerful stress relieving mineral. It relaxes the muscles and builds strong bones and teeth.

Okay, so let's think about this...raw and dark chocolate do all of these wonderful things for us.
lower blood pressure
fill us with antioxidants
provide a very necessary mineral for stress relief,and building of bone and teeth

But there is one catch....Im not talking about snickers bars or M&M's!!! Im talking about real raw chocolate, which is pretty bitter or 70% + dark chocolate.

You can order raw chocolate nibs on line..(Live Superfoods.com) I gind these up in a coffee grinder into a powder and make "hot chocolate with almond milk"... except my hot chocolate means barely warm...enough to dissolve the cocolate... but if you are not full swing into a raw diet yet ....heat it on up... I warm the milk and add 2 teaspoons of the ground raw chocolate, add some raw agave and then pour it through a strainer to remove any little floating chocolate pieces.

For the dark chocolate bars I buy Black and Greens or Dagoba dark chocolate bar. You can buy them at Whole Foods, or I have found Black and Greens in the Health food section of Kroger. Also if you ask these grocery stores that have a health food section to order items for you, them are more than happy to help!

So show yourself some love and enjoy some dark chocolate during the Holidays and keep the tradition going through 2010, it's really good for you!........ Just one other little catch-PORTION! Don't go crazy with it, just enjoy it!

Until next time....
google it, read about it, talk to a friend, then go out and do it!

Jan

Avocado-The Raw Holiday Stress Reliever

2009-12-15T18:02:00.000-08:00

Ahh, the beatiful green avocado! It has so many uses.....But one of my favorite uses of the avocado is as a fask mask. There is nothing better than applying a avocado face mask to relax and relieve stress....
Avocados are high in sterolins, which are reputed to reduce age spots, help heal sun damage and scars.
The sterolins (plant steroids) in the oil help to soften the skin and imparts a superior moisturizing effect. The reason the avocado oil has the advantage over other plant oils is because it has the highest skin penetration rate. It is an extremely good moisturizing and nourishing compound, assisting in the regeneration and rejuvenation of the skin. So with all that being said here is how easy it is to make.............

1 avocado
(scoop out the contents into a bowl)
1 tea honey

Smash the avocao until creamy and mix in the honey
Apply over face, keeping away from the eyes
leave on for 15-20 min
Rinse face and cleanse

I cut 2 pieces of cucumber to put over my eyes and the relaxation begins....................

(I look like an alien but it feels amazing!)

Just find a place in your home where you can be by yourself for 15-20 min and turn on some music, use some aromotherapy, and relax. The cumcumbers have an amazing cooling effect, and they help you to relax because they block out the outside world. You might just find yourself doing some meditaion!

When your time is up, just rinse your face in warm water and clease as normal. I moisturize my skin with avocado oil because it penatrates the skin so well and leaves my skin soft and supple.

( I took this picture right after I rinsed the mask off)

So take a little time for yourself and be treated to a wonderful relaxing experience!

Also don't forget about the salt baths and camomille herb tea.................
P.S. I have been known to enhance the relaxation with a chilled glass of wine!!

Until next time,

Google it ,read about it, talk to a friend, then go out and do it!

Jan

Dead Sea Salts-Spoil Yourself!

2009-12-11T17:31:00.000-08:00

For all of you that have never been to Hot Springs Arkansas, or somewhere like it , I would highly reccomend a road trip. Over Thanksgiving I went to Hot Springs with my daughter Hannah and her family. It was am amazing experience. A spa package was included with my room and on Thanksgiving morning I headed down to the spa. Not like any spa morning I have ever had. I was greeted at the desk and given a card with my personal attendants name (personal attendant?...didn't know quite what to expect!). I found the locker room and was told to put all my clothes in a locker and wrap this large white sheet around me, and wait for my "personal attendant". Within minutes Jackie appeared and said" follow me". She took me to my own private room with a bath tub being fiiled with natural mineral water pumped in from the springs. She took my sheet and I stepped into this incredible water ...... Traditionaly called "the healing waters"....So for the next 30 minutes I soaked and detoxed. Then after the bath I was wrapped in hot towels drenched in the hot spring waters. Then on to a full massage. No words to describe the wonderful experience. I left the bath house feeling renewed and cleansed.

Which leads me to the subject of salt baths. Dead sea salt baths are the same as getting a mineral bath from one of these wonderful resorts. The waters of the dead seas are renowned for their theraputic effects. The dead sea salts contain various minerals, magnesium, potassium, callcium chloride and bromides.

Why are all these minerals beneficial you ask? Well, magnesium is known for combating stress and water retention, slowing skin aging and calming the nervous system. Calcium is effective at preventing water retention, increasing circulation, and strenghthing bones and nails. Potassium energizes the body, helps balance skin moisture and is a crucial mineral to replenish following intense workout. Last but not least bromides to ease muscle stiffness and relax muscles.

So how do you get these amazing effects in your own home???... It's as easy as a click of the internet. I have been ordering dead sea salts for years, and enjoying all of their benefits. There is nothing more relaxing than coming home after a long day and soaking in a bath tub full of dead sea salts along with essential oils.

I order my salts from http://www.sfbsc.com/, the San Francsisco bath salt Co. You can buy your salts in bulk, and they come with a zip lock contained bag. I throw about a cup in my tub along with 20 to 30 drops of my favorite essentinal oil., light some candles, and turn on some great music! I would reccomend this treat for everyone-I often catch my husband snatching my salts because they are that good!! They make a great gift for the Holidays or birthdays.

So what are you waiting for? Treat yourself to a salt bath and reap the tremendous results!
Who knew how great salt could be for you? It does so much more than just season your food!
Writting this post made me realize I needed to replenish my stash. So I just got on line and ordered 20 lbs of the fine grain for myself...They are running a limited special, if you place an order now there is free shipping!

Oh, and fyi, drink lots of water, its a natural detoxer, and to get the full benefit, take your bath when you can stay in the tub for at least 20 minutes.

P.S. Thanks to my son in law Herb for a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Until next time,
Google it, read about it, talk to a friend , then go out and do it!

Jan

Eco Friendly Green Cleaning

2009-12-08T20:52:00.000-08:00

CONSCIOUS DELIBERATIONS

I put a lot of thought and emphasis into my raw food diet. Thinking about what's in the fridge, when am I going to juice my green drink, what's raw for dinner tonight? I think about how much I understand food and digestion now. Lots of thought towards the raw food life. So, I started thinking about how I would like for all aspects of my life to be as clean, organic, and thoughtfully deliberate as my choice of food. This is an evolving journey that is always improving with the goal to make my whole life as clean and green as the food I eat.

I will share many conscious deliberations over the course of the blog. Today, I will share conscious liberation from toxic household chemicals. Cut and dry... get rid of all of them, please recycle the bottles. So what do I use? Glad you asked. I am always checking labels, but right now Seventh Generation products. They are environmentally safe, non toxic products. You can buy laundry and dishwashing detergent, dishwashing soap, bathroom and kitchen cleaner, and trash bags. They sell non toxic diapers and wipes, also 100% recycled, 80% post-consumer toilet paper and paper towels. I seriously do not want another tree cut down for toilet paper. The brand Marcal, another paper company, has been saving trees since 1950. Their paper is also from 100% recycled material, check them out. Yes, you will pay a few dollars more, but there is something to say about treading light, leaving a small carbon footprint, or just being responsible. Not to mention what a great investment into your health by preventing toxic chemicals in your home, in your lungs, and on your skin. You can find Seventh Generation at Whole Foods or online at http://www.seventhgeneration.com/, or for discounts http://www.vitacost.com/, and I get Marcal at Fred Meyers or Kroger.

A great non toxic cleanser you can make in your own home is:
1 cup vinegar
1 lemon juiced
1/4 cup of salt
1 tablespoon of non toxic soap
2 liters of hot water
Mix all the ingredients together and get to work

I clean floors, walls, counters, cabinets, refrigerator, bathrooms and more with this concoction. I use it in a bucket and a spray bottle.

Join the Revolution...
Protect Our Earth, Protect Our Health, Protect Our Children

Keep it Raw-
Melissa

Jan's little bag of magic

2009-12-06T21:43:00.000-08:00

PART 2

Hey everyone,

I had such a great response on part one of my little bag of magic, I decided to go ahead and post part two, sooner than I thought. In this post I am going to be sharing with you my daily supplements that I take for my hair, skin and nails. If I hadn't seen amazing results I wouldn't even waste your time! But I think you will be very interested!
The largest organ on the human body is our skin, so it would stand to reason that we would do every thing in our power to protect, nourish and keep it healthy. So in honor of my skin...... these are some of the things that I do along with my raw diet.

I start my day off with these Raw vitamins-Vitamin Code for Women.

  It almost goes without saying that I choose Raw One because it is made from premium Raw ingredients....*Uncooked, untreated,unadulterated
                     * Binder Free-No fructose,Maltodextrin (food additives),
                        Magnesiumstearate (lubricant, delays the absorbtion of nutrients)
                     * No Corn Starch (filler)

The benifits are directed specifically for women:
                          *  Breast Health
                          *Reproductive System
                          *Bone Stength
                          *RAW Energy
                          *Healthy Heart
                       ***Healthy Skin***

If you are looking for a new multivitamin, or you are not happy with your current one, give this one a try-
You can find Raw One at Whole foods or you can go online -It is made by Garden of Life.

........Another supplement that I take is MSM powder which is short for a big word (Methlsufonylmethane)

Whoa.... I can't even pronounce that-so for all intents and purposes-MSM!

What is MSM you ask? It is a relatively new dietary supplement form of sulfur that is found in living tissues. It has unique action on body tissues decreasing the pressure inside the cells and removing fliuids and toxins.   MSM is an organic form of sulfur taken from the ocean.

Many associate MSM with helping arthritis or joint problems, but MSM has been called nature's"beauty mineral" because it is needed to keep the hair glossy and smooth and keeps the complexion clear and youthful...............

From what I have read, if there is insufficient sulfer in the body when new cells are being manufactutred, the new cells will be ridgid.  The end result of this means the skin experiences cracking, wrinkling, and scar tissue. If there is sufficient sulfer for new cells, the skin will be softer, smoother and more flexible. MSM has been scientifically proven to increase the growth of hair and nails!

Your body produces sulfer, but as you age you produce less and less, so Im just helping my body out with some extra sulfer that it needs.....

From my own personal experience of taking MSM powder, my skin is smoother and softer, my hair and nails are growing faster than when I didn't take it, and my hair has this amazing shine that it didn't have before....

I use a brand called Blue Bonnet-I've used other brands, but I like this one best. I put a teaspoon of MSM in cranberry juice or water-that's about 5200mg

You have to give it 2-3 weeks to begin to see results, but I couldn't be happier!
You can find this brand at Whole Foods and is fairly inexpensive.

What are you waiting for? Smoother skin, longer hair and nails-with no side effects! Wow

So now that you know a few of my supplements-in part 3 I will be sharing what I put on the outside of my skin to keep it healthy,smooth and vibrant.

Until next time- goole it, read about it, talk to a friend, then go out and do it!

Jan

Melissa's Real Raw Truth

2009-12-03T18:21:00.000-08:00

Raw Organic Hemp Seed

One of my favorite "SuperFoods" is the Hemp Seed. They are known to be the earth's most nutritious seeds. They are packed with 33% protien and 40% essential fatty acids, and are rich in iron. They are high in antioxidants such as naturally occurring chlorophyll and vitamin E complex.

Nutritional Information Serving size : 2 Tablespoons (19g), Calories 120 (calories from fat 90), Total Fat 9g, Saturated 1g, Trans 0g, Cholesterol 0g, Sodium 0mg, Carbs 2g, Protein 6g, Omega-3 2g,Omega-6 5g, Super Omega-6 GLA 4g, Super Omega-3 SD .2g

SuperFoods are claimed to be the powerful source of lots of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, clean protiens, enzymes, essential amino acids, and alot more nutrients. SuperFoods are linked to;

lowering cholesterol
improving your mood
reducing heart disease

The tasty little Hemp seed look like sesame seeds but have a subtle nutty rich flavor, and are delicious sprinkled on raw salads, cereal, and smoothies. But I just like to eat them by the spoonfull!

One of the many questions I get asked about concerning the raw diet is"what is your protien source"? Well, hemp seed is one of the best sources of protien that I have come across.You can buy them at Whole Foods, but if you want to buy in bulk, you can go online to http://www.livesuperfoods.com/ .

Hemp is all around the most useful plant on the planet. Hemp is food, clothing, paper, oil, medicine, and so much more. This plant has over 25,000 uses. We could build our homes, drive our cars, clothe ourselves, feed the world, stop deforestation, reverse global warming, and so much more...only if we could grow this plant in our own country. Planting just 6% of our nations farm land in hemp would end the demand for fossil fuels in America forever. Not to mention hemp enriches the soil for other crops and does not require the use of pesticides. This plant can actually save the planet! I have three children and I think about their future on this planet all the time. If I was not such a believer, I would be afraid for the health of the earth and the inhabitants (our children and grandchildren, mine and yours). However, I am a believer, and I know if we become educated about this plant we can turn the fate of this planet around and live incredibly sustainable abundant lives.

Do yourself a favor and eat some hemp seeds for their nutritionial value, but watch out for the side affects, you could be contributing to saving our planet.

Keep it Raw-

Melissa

Jan's little bag of magic

2009-12-01T16:41:00.000-08:00

PART 1

People ask me all the time,"what else do you do besides eat a raw diet"? They want to know what exercise I do, what supplements I take, what secrects I have for healthy, vibrant, glowing skin. So I thought I would take a few posts and share my little bag of magic and how a day in the life of Jan goes!

I wake up and start my day out with an amaxing cup of hot herbal tea, sweetened with raw agave and raw honey.... the brand of tea I am using right now is Mighty Leaf. I have 2 personal favorites, chamomile citrus, and african nectar. I started drinking the african nectar when I found out that it was made from the african rooibos leaves. I think you might be intrested in the amazing qualities of the rooibos leaves....Pronounced "roy-boss".

Studies have shown that this tea helps delay the aging process. (That got my attention right off the bat) It contains a mimic of the enzyme Super Oxide Dismutase, an antioxidant which attacks the free radicals.
It helps to relieve nausea, constipation and heartburn.
Increases the asorption of iron in the body
Often perscribed for tension and mild depression
Helps control your appetite
Last but not least-Helps Recoup after a Hangover!

So who knew all of this in alittle tea bag!!!
It can be purchased on line or Whole Foods. I have also found it in the health food section of Kroger

Next, head to the shower... but first I use my dry body brush-A very necessary part of my daily routine.

This is exactly the body brush that I have. And here is alittle lesson on how to use it:
Start at your feet and brush upwards towards your heart
Brush legs, arms,abdomen, chest, neck with a circular motion
Lift your arm over your head and brush the armpits,
Brush also behind the knee caps, then head to the shower.

The benifits of dry brushing are incredible...It helps clean the lymphatic system, removes dead skin cells,stregthens the immune system, tones the muscles and tightens the skin. And if that isn't enough, it improves the function of the nervous system, and stimulates circulation!! Wow, and all of that takes maybe 3 to 4 minutes a day, and your skin has been detoxed and exfoliated, and rejuvinated!
You can purchase the dry body brush on line, but I have found it to be cheaper at Whole Foods.

Well I can see that this could turn into a very long post if I don't stop...So for now I will save the vitamins and supplements for part 2.

Google it, read about it, talk to a friend, then go and do it!

Jan

Colonics-The trip I never thought I would take!

2009-11-29T08:48:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I finally went and did my first colonics treatment! OMG! Is all I can say.............

So here is how it went-I drove about an hour and fifteen minutes to get to there. I parked the car and actually set there for a second and said to self- "Whoa are you ready, here you go"!.... I pretty much knew
what to expect. I know people that have been through the treatment, and they had shared their experiences with me. Also, I had watched the procedure on YouTube that morning before I went-didn’t want any surprises, if you know what I mean! Don’t laugh; you will probably do the same thing.

I entered the front door and was greeted by the owner. She made me feel very comfortable and handed me a clip board with papers to fill out. After we talked, she took me into a room with a colonics table and began to tell me about what to expect. Pretty much I was told to take everything off from the waist down and handed a beach towel to use, then she showed me the sterile plastic tube that would be inserted in me, don’t freak out , only a couple of inches. Totally painless. I laid down on the table, and instead of me trying to explain what the table and setup look like, just google colonics or hydro-colon therapy and watch a video on youtube.

After the introduction speech, she walked out of the room and I did my own insertion of the tube, ( by the way, my experience was totally private and uninterrupted). When she returned she turned on the water from a cabinet on the wall above my head, she showed me the doorbell to push in case I needed her, turned on some music, pushed a cart of magazines over to me, (like I was going to read magazines while this was going on!)… It took less than a minute for the water to fill up the large intestine, and so the process began!! It’s an hour of filling up and eliminating. Everything runs down through these clear pipes and is taken to a waste dump. You lay there and watch all that comes though the tubes. I was honestly shocked at how much debris came out of my body. I had clear water with just bubbles for the first 5 or 6 minutes, then matter began to be dislodged and move through the tubes. There was nothing painful or uncomfortable about the procedure, really just amazement at what had accumulated and stuck to the inside of my body over all these years. Before I went raw, I considered myself a fairly clean eater, vegetarian for the good part of the last 15 years. But as I clearly” "saw", this procedure is extremely necessary, I believe it’s for everyone. In fact it will become part of my health regiment for the rest of my life. The instant physical results are astonishing. My skin looked younger, vibrant and glowing, the whites of my eyes were extremely white, toxins had been removed and I lost 3 pounds, all in one hour! Read up on it, Google it, YouTube it, then schedule an appointment and go do it!!

Hannah's Real Raw Groove

2009-11-25T12:38:00.000-08:00

It was a magical evening in early May of this year, I had just finished teaching my Wednesday night Kundalini Yoga class, I was feeling amazing, full of gratitude, blissed out and high from all of the good vibrations when when my husband called, he needed his specific soy creamer for his coffee that can only be found at our local Whole Foods. This is where it all began........
Let me back up a little and tell you a bit about my self, I have a wonderful Yoga studio in Memphis Tn and I have been teaching yoga since 2004. I am am married with a kick ass husband and two unbelievable children. I often think that it has to be weird to be married to me (we are like Dharma and Greg), and my children are too young, but when they get older they will either think I am the coolest mom in the world or they will be totally embaresed and wish they had a "normal mom"
So it was of no surprise to my family when I came home from Whole foods that night with Natalia Rose's book "Raw food detox Diet". I had heard of raw foodies before but it all sounded way to extreme for me, I had been extreme in my diet plenty of times in the past and had never been interested in going back to anything that felt like deprivation....I was at a point in my life where I did not need to loose weight and I did not want any restrictions laid on me, but there was something about this book , I do not know why, but when I saw it I did not even think twice, I just put it in my cart.....something in me knew.
For three years following my daughters birth my body had been in daily pain. I had never known pain in my body before and I had no idea what it was about......I tried everything from massages to different yoga techniques, hot tubs and saunas....nothing worked, my body was always hurting. The main places were in between my shoulder blades and in my low back. I think these are very common places for many people to feel pain in our modern world but it did not make sense to me because I spend very little time in front of a computer, I don't sit at a desk and I am pretty physically fit...it was driving me crazy.
The night I took home Natalia Rose's book I read the whole thing in one night and I knew this would be a part of my life. Although the more I think back on it, I have to admit that there must have been some part of me that was subconsciously remembering the Playboy edition that I saw of Carol Alt who has been a raw foodie for 13 years and looked like a freakin million dollars in her mid life. I know there was some vanity involved.
Anyway, I started the next day. I will not lie, the first two weeks were rough, the detox was intense and everything in my body felt different.....good different........ Here is the mamma jamma reason that I stuck with it, after only one week, going 90 percent raw, the pain in my body was gone....ALL OF IT. I mean it, three years of nonstop pain, Gone.
It is almost six months later and the pain has never come back, and all of the other transitions in my life have been amazing. I experience so much more clarity, my skin is clearer and more vibrant than it has ever been, and my energy levels are off the charts. This way of eating enhances every level of my life and has been a real blessing. There is a lot to understand about it, and there are shadow sides as well. With everything we do in life we must know ourselves, nothing is separate, everything is connected and if we have imbalances within us they will play out in every aspect of our lives including our relationship with our food. I feel that eating raw foods paired with either yoga or some kind of practice of awareness grants you the chance to live your greatest life, the ability to see and let go of all that does not serve you. It offers grace....... grace is realizing that are lives are full of endless possibilities, we CAN experience freedom while living and we can dance through our lives on a higher frequency......this is just the beginning, and this is my real raw groove.

A few of Jan's Thanksgiving recipes

2009-11-23T04:24:00.000-08:00

Before I went RAW, two of my favorite dishes at Thanksgiving were dressing and pumpkin pie. So I decided that I wasn't going to let a little thing like going raw keep me from enjoying them this year .... After much research I have come across a couple of recipes that I will be making this year and wanted to pass them on......

Raw Pumpkin Pie

Crust
2 cups pecans or walnut
1/2 cup of soaked dates
dash of seasalt

Blend the ingredients in food processor of high speed blender, then evenly distribute in the bottom of a pie plate.

Pumpkin Pie Filling
2 cups shredded pumpkin, butternut squash, or sweet potato ﬂesh

1 cup soaked dates
2 tsp. cinnamon
1 tsp. freshly diced ginger
1 tsp. nutmeg
1 tsp. coconut oil
Dash of vanilla
•1/4 cup almond milk or water to help blend

If you donʼt feel like shredding the pumpkin by hand, simply cube and place in a high speed blender or food processor until itʼs nicely chopped, then add rest of ingredients and blend till smooth/ might need a little more liquid-pour into pie crust and chill for 30 min.

(this recipe came from Raw Food Witch)

Thanksgiving Raw Dressing

2 cups golden raisins
1 cup apple juice
3 cups chopped apple
1&1/2 cupps chopped nuts
1&1/2 cups finely chopped sunflower seeds
1/2 tea cinnamon
1/4 tea nutmeg
pinch of sage
pinch of thyme

Soak raisins in apple juice for an hour....Mix with remaining ingredients... chill for several hrs.
(I always use organic friuts and vegtables)

Give these a try and let me know how they turned out!!
Wishing all of you Happy Holidays!!!