Mapping the Inner Journey

Journaling as Meditation

A powerful OM today. Connecting heaven and earth. ~j

Of the countless forms of meditation we can use, journaling offers its own unique benefits. Most meditations help empty the mind of concerns and bring positive ideas from our mental landscape, but journaling helps us anchor that experience in the material world. Not every person is attracted to meditating in seated silence, and journal meditation is a nice alternative as an active meditation. It allows us to trace our journey and see where we have grown and what lessons we may be repeating. By employing a different part of the brain than creative or inspired thought, writing or typing a journal can create a greater sense of connection and union with our physical selves and the world around us.

In working through challenges, it can be helpful to first empty all worries from our heads onto the safe pages of our journal. Fears can be brought to light rather than allowing them to haunt the dark corners of our subconscious. We may even feel heaviness dissipate once our heads are free from clutter, leaving space for inspiration and the creation of positive images in their place. Often in the process of writing out all the details of an event that troubles us, something that had been forgotten will come to the surface, providing a missing piece of the puzzle. Then we can truly begin to come up with answers, and write them down beside the worries to map the way from concern to constructive thought.

For capturing guidance and flashes of inspiration, journaling is ideal. This is especially true in the case of dreams, which often fade as we awaken. While working toward goals, keeping track of progress as well as guidance from readings or divination tools can be encouraging. Though it can be difficult to keep all of our guidance in the front of our minds, if we write it down it can serve as a reminder whenever we need it. We can also use our journals to converse with our higher selves or even the universe. Journaling offers yet another way to unburden mind and spirit, while also creating a record of the present and preserving our hopes and dreams for the future.

"We have the capacity to consciously evaluate our responses to environmental stimuli
and
change old responses any time we desire...
once we deal with the powerful subconscious mind.
We are not stuck with our genes or our self-defeating behavior!"

~Bruce Lipton, Ph.D., author of The Biology of Belief

Hey gang!

I know that I have been MIA with the commentary lately. That facebook thing is so fast and available. But I feel that there is such a shift rising on the swell that I will be spending more time here. So thanks for your patience!

Everything is in a constant state of change. Making a conscious change includes the whole package the physical and mental/emotional/spiritual. Changing your lifestyle for good is about consistency.

• A dishonest yes to someone else is a no to yourself (Byron Katie). Be true to yourself or at least start learning what that means. Take care of yourself because if you are sick, weak or otherwise distracted in the past or the future, you can't be present in your life. Don't miss out!
• Share and extra ordinary action or a kind word with those that are part of your sacred circle, family, loved ones, your peeps, pals or just best buds.
• Find your integrity in your community, even with those that you don't know. Our celebrity examples are certainly showing us what not to do! We are all connected in this life and when you dishonor yourself you dishonor others and vice versa.

Keep it real.

With a grateful heart and a vital force! ~j

Auburn Black & White Ball

Summer Nights - It's America, Anywhere USA

We'll be there! Our first time to attend this local event. Hope you'll join us if you are in town :-) ~j

http://www.partyauburn.com/

Some Swine Flu With Your French Fries?

Russian Scientists: H1N1 linked to Genetically Modified Food

Be aware, be prepared...this is an eye opener folks. Stop eating GMO foods, give your body a chance, keep your immune system healthy so that it can take protect us from these nasty man-made viruses. If you don't know about genetically modified foods, get in the know, now.

Scouting motto: Be prepared...in body and mind. ~j

Below is an excerpt from Winston Kao's newsletter connecting the swine flu virus and fast food french fries. This is one of the number of things that the virus appears to be specifically designed to be triggered by.

The molecular formula of Amylopectin, the responsible enzyme in these potatoes, is variable according to wikipedia.com. Best course of action...first, stop eating fast food french fries (additionally the rest of the fast processed foods too)! Then consider how to detox all those chemicals out.

Amylopectin — Molecular Formula: VariableAccording to http://en.wikipedia .org/wiki/ Amylopectin

Scientists from Russia's Ministry of Health are warning in a secret report to Prime Minister Putin that they have discovered a 'critical link' between the H1N1 influenza (Swine Flu) virus and genetically modified amylopectin potatoes that are consumed in massive quantities nearly exclusively by Westerners and sold in fast food restaurants as French Fries.

According to these reports, the protease enzyme genetically modified in the potatoes being sold through Western fast food restaurants as French Fries to protect against Potato virus X causes an "explosive" replication of the H1N1 influenza virus in the body.

Evidence confirming these dire findings is also supported by the World Health Organization who in their reporting on the current Influenza Pandemic, clearly show that the H1N1 virus is nearly totally confined to those Western Nations allowing their citizens to consume these genetically modified potatoes, and which include: The United States with over 17,000 cases being reported with 45 deaths; Canada with 2,978 cases; the United Kingdom with 1,226 cases; and Australia with 1,823 cases.

Important to also note about the World Health Organization' s statistics on the spread of the H1N1 Pandemic influenza virus is that Chile is the only country in the World outside of The United States, Canada, United Kingdom and Australia to allow the planting of these genetically modified potatoes due to their Free Trade Pact with the US and who are reporting 1,694 cases of this disease.

Most of the World's largest Nations do not allow the planting of these genetically modified potatoes and therefore are reporting very limited outbreaks of the H1N1 Pandemic influenza, including Russia with 3 cases, China, the world's most populated country, with 318 cases, and India, the World's second largest country, with 16. Who consumes the majority of these GMO French fries? Our kids! This was recently confirmed by the Washington Post News Service that reported:"Of the 5,000 confirmed and more than 100,000 probable cases of swine flu, the average age of infected people is 15; two thirds are younger than 18.

"These reports further warn that though the genetic history of this insidious man-made influenza seems to initially offer some protection for those Nations not consuming these genetically modified potatoes, to believe so would be a "grave mistake" as new evidence is emerging that this H1N1 Pandemic influenza virus is rapidly mutating, and as we can read from these two reports:"The new strain of influenza appears to have mutated to become more infectious for humans."

From the online edition of science magazine Nature reported last Monday, referencing research by a team including Prof. Yoshihiro Kawaoka of Tokyo University's Institute of Medical Science. The surface of influenza virus particles are covered with thorn-shaped proteins, which allows the virus to stick to human cells. After analyzing multiple samples of the new flu virus, the team ascertained that in some cases the new H1N1 strain has mutated, allowing the strain to stick to human cells more easily.

According to Professor Kawaoka, the same mutations have been found in, the highly virulent bird flu, which kills about 60 percent of those it infects. Kawaoka said the virus is still in the process of mutating into a form even more infectious to humans."More ominously to be examined in these reports is the response of the United States to this Pandemic which, to date, is the World's largest infected Nation (reporting 7 more H1N1 flu deaths today) and which has already declared a Public Health Emergency and, just yesterday, passed a bill in Congress allocating $7.7 Billion to prepare themselves for this catastrophic disease.

Here are a few websites so that you can at least see and learn the truth about vaccines rapidly:

• National Vaccine Information Center http://www.nvic.org/
• Kids Need Options With Vaccines www.know-vaccines. org
• Vaccination Liberation - Exemption Information www.vaclib.org/ exemption. htmVideo: Swine Flu 1976 & Propaganda - The Devastation, The Victims Who Took The Shots Back In 1976 - "WARNING" "WARNING" - 16 Min http://loveforlife. com.au/node/ 6636

“Every beauty which is seen here by persons of perception

resembles more than anything else

that celestial source from which we all are come."

~Michelangelo

Seeing Your Perfection
Letting Your Light Shine

We are each born into this world with unique gifts. Within us is a glimmer of the divine, a light that can potentially make the world a more beautiful place. But in many, that light lies dormant, snuffed out by fears and feelings of inadequacy. To spark it is to attract attention, face the possibility of rejection or the responsibility of success, and risk being labeled immodest. Yet when we undermine the light by hiding our aptitudes and quashing our dreams, we deny ourselves and others a wealth of experiences. Your abilities are a part of who you are and when you take pride in them, you affirm the love, esteem, and trust with which you view yourself. Moreover, as you express the light within, you grant others permission to do the same, freeing them to explore their own talents.

For some, we are taught to hide our light from the world since childhood. Relatives caution us that the professions associated with our aptitudes are unattainable. Our peers may be envious of our skills and thus overly critical of the activities we instinctively enjoy. And authority figures admonish us to be humble and avoid showing off. But there is a vast chasm that separates those who let their light shine and those who seek only to draw attention to themselves. When you dare to share your light with the world, the beauty and perfection of your soul become clearly visible. You become a whole being葉he literal embodiment of your vast potential. Whether you are a wonderful dancer, a first-rate cook, quick with numbers, or a natural negotiator, you値l come to understand that you do the world no favors when you hold yourself back.

If you have hidden your light for so long that it has shrunk to an ember, make a list of everything you do well, however impractical, silly, or seemingly inconsequential. Then ask yourself how you can positively utilize those abilities in your daily life. The gifts you were born with were not granted to you arbitrarily. While you may never discover what impact your light has had on others, you can be certain that when you embrace your talents and share them with others, you will spread illumination in the world.

Environmental Toxins and Women
~Ladies, it's time to get real!

Anyone close to you recently diagnosed with Cancer, Heart Disease, Thyroid, Digestive disorders?? This one is too good not to share...I have been a bit behind on blogging...sorry, but it is really time to pay attention to the mounds of toxins that are breaking down our bodies and hindering our quality of life!! Not only pay attention, but take action, do something that is well within your power and every day you will be taking a step toward wellness rather than illness.

In time ~j

Whenever you need the facts on how toxic our world has become and what these toxins are doing to us, please always go to www.EWG.org. They are world class experts in sounding the alarm with FACTS. This link leads to review on BISPHENOL A that I am certain will help you become more ENVIRONMENTALLY aware for yourself, your family and your dear friends.

http://www.ewg.org/featured/218/.

Environmental Toxins and Women’s Health
Lyn Hanshew, MD
6/11/09

The exponential increase of diseases and symptoms is directly related to the increase in environmental toxins. Over 100,000 toxic chemicals have been released into our environment since World War II 1. A new study by the Environmental Working Group completed in May of 2009 2 found up to 48 toxic chemicals commonly used in everyday consumer products in blood and urine samples of five prominent women environmental activists who live across the U.S. "In everyone we found fire retardants, Teflon chemicals, fragrances, bisphenol A or BPA, and perchlorate" stated Sonya Lunder, MPH. These chemicals have been linked to birth defects, hormonal dysregulation and increased cancer rates. Anila Jacob, MD, MPH notes that health trends in the U.S. suggest that the chemical load plays a role, citing growing rates of autism spectrum disorder, diabetes, and certain cancers. "These chemicals are showing up in people. They can be potent at very low levels of exposure; we know that from animal studies." While the rising number of chronic diseases has many roots, she says, the increased exposure to chemicals is one factor.

“We are walking, talking toxic waste sites,” Nancy Evans from the Breast Cancer Fund stated in 2001 1. Her comments were regarding the CDC report published in 2001 documented the widespread pesticide contamination, high levels of Mercury and phthalates across the U.S.

“I feel stupid, fat and tired” is a common lament of American women. Obesity rates have skyrocketed in the past 20 years with the CDC reporting in June 2009, with 1/6th of Americans overweight and an estimated 39.8 million people affected. Fifty percent of women in the U.S. age 20 to 74 are overweight or obese (The National Women’s Health Information Center). The incidence of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome is 1/544 Americans and an estimated 500,000 are affected 12. Thorough evaluation of these people will invariably reveal heavy metal toxicity and correlated neurological, immune and endocrine dysfunction. The disruption these toxic chemicals cause in the metabolic pathways of the neurological, immune and endocrine are well-described and include:

a)Interference with the GTP energy molecule in neurons preventing the proper structure and function of neurons and resulting in neurofibrillary tangles, pathognomonic for Alzheimer’s disease and decreased neurotransmitter production 3. Symptoms would include Anxiety, Depression, Bipolar Affective Disorder, and Sleep and Mood disturbance, Addiction, MS, Dementia and Parkinson’s.

b)Interference with thyroid hormone metabolism: Mercury, Lead, Cadmium, and Arsenic block conversion of Free T4 (which is inactive in the body) to the active Free T3. Free T3 is responsible for balanced mood, energy, metabolism, regulation of Glucose and Cholesterol levels, temperature regulation of the body (cold hands and cold feet), central obesity and gut motility required for proper elimination 9,10.

c)Interference with production of ATP energy molecule in mitochondrion of cells: Mercury specifically competes with Magnesium to block the release of chemical energy from the ATP bonds resulting in fatigue, weight gain and low metabolic activity.

d)Toxins negatively affect cell-mediated immunity and antibody production resulting in infection and tumor development.

e)Toxins affect the metabolic pathway of equilibrium of Omega 3 fatty acids and Omega 6 fatty acids resulting in an increase of histamine and leukotrienes. This is the basis of inflammation, allergy and auto-immune reactions.

f)Specific to women is the increased rate of miscarriage. This is reflective of the truism that pregnancy is the number one detoxification protocol for women. The toxins pass from the mother through the placenta to the fetus. The average newborn in the U.S. has over 206 toxic chemicals. Toxins from the mother pass through the breast milk to the newborn, as well 11, 14, 15, 16.

The good news is that the diseases and symptoms stemming from environmental toxins are relatively simple to identify and correct. If the problem is toxicity, then by definition the solution is detoxification. Sub-micronized clinoptilolite zeolite irreversibly binds toxic heavy metals and other toxins and is excreted through the urinary tract without any side-effects. In my research and clinical use, ACZ nano® has proven the most effective chelating agent available to remove toxic heavy metals, chemical toxins and free radicals. Urine provocation studies using this nanomized clinoptilolite zeolite are also an effective way to accurately test and detect the presence of toxic heavy metals. Examples of urine provocation studies can be found at www.resultsrnaresearch.com.

Another key aspect of detoxification is addressing the pathogen load associated with a compromised immune system. ACS 200® by Results RNA® is the only antimicrobial I am aware of, shown to be effective in killing all pathogens tested, including Candida. Candida and other fungi store Mercury in their cell walls. In order to decrease the body burden of Mercury, it is critical to kill the Candida, and to bind and excrete the released Mercury using ACZ nano®.

As the toxins and pathogens are eliminated from the body, the cells, tissues and organs can begin to heal and function. The key to facilitating the healing process is in supporting the endocrine system. Proper laboratory testing must be done. This includes checking Free T3 and Free T4 levels as well assessing the Adrenal function by checking DHEA-SO4, Total Testosterone, Estradiol and Progesterone levels. It is important to understand that the references ranges on the lab report refer to an ill population and do not reflect the optimal ranges necessary for optimal health and function. Bio-identical hormone supplementation is usually required to support the endocrine system as it heals and begins to regain its critical role.

Let’s examine pathogenesis. If a person understands that toxins are truly the etiology of most modern diseases and symptoms, it is then possible to trace the biochemical pathway of cause and symptoms. Fibromyalgia was first described in the Psychiatric literature as a mental disorder only in women. It is now defined as a fatigue and pain syndrome of unknown cause occurring in both sexes with no known cure. In this example, the symptom of pain is often caused by toxins interfering with biochemical pathways involving Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids conversion resulting in increase histamine and leukotriene production causing inflammation and pain. Toxins also generate free radicals and an acidic environment which is damaging to tissues resulting in pain. The fatigue aspect of Fibromyalgia can be caused by interference of toxins with the production of ATP necessary for cellular function and interference with the conversion of Free T4 to Free T3. It has been my experience that when the body is detoxified using ACZ nano® and pathogen load is reduced using ACS 200® and the hormones are optimally balanced that “diseases” and symptoms resolve.

References

1-Lowry, Joan. “We are walking, talking toxic wastes sites”. Scripps Howard News Service. Seattle Post Intelligencer. March 22, 2001

2-Jacob, A, Lunder, S, et al. The Chemical Body Burden of Environmental Justice Leaders. Environmental Working Group. May 2009

3-Duhr, E.F., Pendergrass, J.C., Slevin and Haley,B. HgEDTA Complex Inhibits GTP Interactions with the E-Site of Brain b-Tubulin. Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology 122, 273-288. 1993.

4-Ruzicic, J, “No more tears….just cancer causing chemicals.” EWG. May 2009

5-Environmental Working Group. The Environment: Body Burden. www.EWG.org. June 2009

6-Ngim,CH, Devathasan,G. Epidemiological Study on the Association Between Body and Kidneys in Relation to Idiopathic Parkinson’s Disease. Neuroepidemiology 8, 128-141, 1989.

7-Seidler,A et al. “Possible environmental or occupational factors for Parkinson’s Disease. Neurology, 1996; 45 (6) 1276-84.

8- Ma,R., et al. “Association between dental restorations and carcinoma of the tongue”.
European J of Cancer. Part B Oral Oncology. 1996; 31B (4):232-4.

9-Baier, VW, Hertoghe, J,Eeekhaut,W. “Thyroid Insuffiency. Is TSH the only diagnostic tool?” J Nutr Envir Med 2000;10, 105-133.

10-Dommisse,J. T3 is at least as important as T4 in all hypothyroid patients. J Clin Psychiatry 1993; July.

11-Oaskarsson, A et al, “Exposure to toxic elements via breast milk”, Analyst, 120(3):765-770; 1995

12- Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, NIAID Fact Sheet: NIAID

13-Obesity and Overweight Statistics CDC June 2009

14- Armenian Medical Network June 2005 Miscarriage: An Overview. www.health.am

15-Gracia C, Sammel M, Chittams J, Hummel A, Shaunik A, Barnhart K (2005). "Risk factors for spontaneous abortion in early symptomatic first-trimester pregnancies". Obstet Gynecol 106 (5 Pt 1): 993–9

16-Furneaux EC, Langley-Evans AJ, Langley-Evans SC (2001). "Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy: endocrine basis and contribution to pregnancy outcome". Obstet Gynecol Surv 56 (12): 775–82.

Fuel That Nurtures
Eating Right to Feel Better

At its simplest, food is fuel. Though our preferences regarding taste and texture can vary widely, we all rely on the foods we eat for energy. Most people are aware that it is vital we consume a diverse assortment of foods if we aspire to maintain a state of physical well-being. However, the intimate connection between diet and our mental well-being is less understood. Just as the nutritional components in food power the body, so too do they power the mind. Some foods can impair cognitive functioning and sap our energy while others heighten our intellectual prowess and make us feel vigorous. What we eat and drink can have a powerful effect on our ability to focus, mental clarity, mood, and stress levels.

Food allergies, which don’t always manifest themselves in forms we recognize, can also play a significant role in the maintenance of mental health. Thus, for most of us, even a simple change in diet can have a profoundly positive impact on our lives. Taking the time to explore whether anxiety, muddled thoughts, or inexplicable tension can be linked to a food allergy or food sensitivity can empower you to treat your symptoms naturally. The benefits of a healthier, more personalized diet are often felt immediately. Sugar, saturated fats, wheat, and dairy products are frequently allergens and can stress the body. For people that are allergic, consuming them can cause imbalances in the physical self that have a negative effect on the body’s ability to nourish the brain. Water, fiber, nuts, unprocessed seeds, raw fruits and vegetables, and vegetable proteins, on the other hand, support physical and mental functioning by providing those nutrients we do need without additional subs! tances we don’t.

A balanced, natural diet can ease mood swings, panic attacks, anxiety, and mild depression. Intellectual clarity and agility is improved when the mind receives proper nourishment. Even those individuals who are blessed with the ability to consume almost any food can benefit from a healthier and simpler diet. Since the mental and physical selves are closely bound to one another, we must feed each the foods upon which they thrive.

Change in all things is sweet. ~Aristotle

Get fired up!

Benefits of Brain Exercises

Did you know that the human brain starts slowing down as early as age 30? The good news is that you can speed it up, and improve even your most basic cognitive abilities at any age. Keep your brain performing at its best with Lumosity, a brain training program consisting of engaging brain games and exercises developed by some of the leading neuroscientists in the country.

Enjoy these Brain Training Games! Go for it, they aren't just for kids you know. ~j

It's confirmed: Matter is merely vacuum fluctuations - physics-math - 20 November 2008 - New Scientist

It's confirmed: Matter is merely vacuum fluctuations - physics-math - 20 November 2008 - New Scientist

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Our Paths Crossed Here, before CrossFit...Was your workout wasting your time?

Great article reposted thanks to CrossFit San Elijo...

Take a peek, if you still reside in a Big Box Gym culture you may take a few points into consideration.


Wiped in 24 minutes today.~ j

A Little Perspective...

The Planets











Now, THIS is really fascinating -
it's rather dazzling to see it presented this way.












BEYOND OUR SUN . IT'S A BIG UNIVERSE.












HUBBLE VIEW OF COUNTLESS GALAXIES



















HUMBLING, ISN'T IT?

NOW HOW BIG ARE YOU?

AND HOW BIG ARE THE THINGS THAT UPSET YOU TODAY?

KEEP LIFE IN PERSPECTIVE.

WOW! ~j

Feeling a bit stressed?

Here is a great technique for implementing stress reduction, and it really works :-)

Seems a little corny if you aren't used to Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) and there are other variations to the patterning, but when I came across this one I found it rather enjoyable. Gary Craig is the founder of this emotional, needle free version of acupuncture. There are many wonderful stories from quit smoking, losing weight to healing old emotional wounds and healthier living. Take a peek.

Daily practice can really make a difference. How long, well that is up to you. There are practitioners available to help you through the process, especially when there are deep seeded emotional concerns, but the online introductions are simple and effective. This you tube is a focused just on the stress, but you'll get the jist nd if you browse a little at tapping.com or emofree.com you will find some other forms of resolution are available to explore.

Here's to living a little lighter:-) hmmmmmm, hmmmmmm, hmmmmm, hmmmmm, hmmmmmm ~j

Introduction to Tapping - sorry! only have a link to this one. It has more of an explanatory introduction :-) than the embedded version below.

Velvet Green Smoothie

Velvet Green Smoothie

1 bunch dandelion greens
1 bunch parsley
3 mangoes
3 cups water
Blend well.

Yields 2 quarts

©2009 Copyrighted material!
Please reference this source when sharing this information: www.rawfamily.com

Blending vs. Juicing

A chapter from Victoria’s up-coming book “Green Smoothie Revolution”

After I published my first book about green smoothies, I have received many inquiries from my readers asking whether blending was preferable to juicing. I also heard that some nutritionists were concerned that blending might accelerate the oxidation of the food. I was very curious to find the answer for myself and decided to seriously research this question.

I conducted a simple experiment. I chose potatoes for my experiment because it is easy to observe the process of oxidation in potatoes. You probably remember an instance when you left a slice of raw potato on your cutting board and observed it turning brown within several minutes. That is why my grandmother used to put peeled potatoes in water, to prevent browning or oxidation.

First, I peeled two potatoes so that the color of their peel wouldn’t interfere with the results of my experiment. I then juiced one potato in a twin-gear juicer and blended the other one in a Vita Mix blender with one cup of water. I placed both cups of fluid on the table and took a photograph of them. I was taking photographs frequently for two days. The potato juice started to turn brown within a matter of minutes and became dark brown by the end of the first hour. The blended potato stayed almost white for two days. The top of both liquids, which was exposed to the air, turned dark almost instantly. I repeated this experiment three times with different kinds of potatoes and various shapes of glasses. The results were the same.
Potatoe Experiment

It was clear that the juiced potato oxidized much faster than the blended potato. Since I am not a professional scientist, I decided to seek the opinion of someone with the appropriate expertise. I went to the local university and consulted with Gregory T. Miller, professor of chemistry of Southern Oregon University. After researching this matter, he wrote the following:

The browning is the result of oxidation of specific biomolecules in the fruit or vegetable. My students study this in lab so I have some familiarity with the process (albeit they are studying the enzymatically regulated oxidation). My wife is also a winemaker and deals with oxidation of her juice/wine or a regular basis. I also possess a huge number of resources on the oxidation topic in the form of biochemistry, medical, and nutritional books. Here are my thoughts:espiratory tract ailments.

Many people believe that the blending process will cause increased oxidation due to thousands of tiny air bubbles getting mixed into the "juice". This effectively increases the surface area of oxygen in the liquid and facilitates the oxidation process. However, in grapes at least, I have observed the opposite to be true. The blended grape stays a truer color much longer. I believe this observation in grapes to be a result of numerous antioxidants released as the grape is blended (breaks open more cells than juicing). I believe this is what you are seeing with the potato, as well.

Potatoes contain numerous antioxidants. This may come as a surprise to many people because of the pale color of many varietals. Among others, potatoes are rich sources of phenolics, flavonoids, carotenoids, and anthocyanins. The concentration of each vary with the type of potato. Since your potatoes are skinless (where the greatest concentration of the tyrosinase enzyme is located), I believe the blending process releases a much higher percentage of these antioxidants from the tissue than the juicing process.

It is also possible that, in many fruits and vegetables, the bulk of the fiber released during blending reduces the oxygen saturation in the solution but, if true, I think this is a secondary issue.

Now I understand why it is commonly advised to drink squeezed juice within minutes of making it, and why smoothies can stay fresh for two or three days in the fridge. Even though I can clearly see the many benefits of smoothies, I still don’t want to completely disregard juicing. One of the main advantages of juice is that it requires next to no digestion and can be absorbed and assimilated immediately into the bloodstream, allowing the digestive system to rest. This important quality of juice allows it to be used by people who suffer from severe nutritional deficiencies or have highly irritable digestive system. People with these conditions often cannot tolerate any fiber at all, and juice may provide invaluable nourishment for them. Later, when their health will improve, these people can switch to drinking smoothies.

I agree with Dr. Doug Graham that juices are a fractured food, which is missing an essential component—fiber. When we consume enough fiber, we take a load off of our organism by improving our elimination. Toxins often build up in the colon and fiber cleans them out. When most toxins have been removed by fiber, then the body has a greater ability to absorb nutrients, thus improving digestion. Humans could not live on juices alone, whereas green smoothies are a complete food.

If I don’t have a blender around me, I juice. One time I gave my blender to my brother because I thought that he needed it more than I. While waiting for my new Vita-mix, I was juicing greens because I could not live without them. While I was juicing, I quickly got tired by the limited variety of flavors, in addition to that, I noticed that I I felt hungrier and I had to add more salads to my menu, as juices were not as filling as smoothies. Contrary to that, smoothies are very filling; I can live on them for days, and even weeks. I know of people who have chosen to live on smoothies for several weeks or months with beneficial results. You will find the extraordinary story of Clent Manich’s green smoothie experiment further in this book.

Standing Women

I received this from a dear friend of mine and thought I would pass it along to you all. ~j

In the midst of crisis, women, men, and children are standing for a better
world in countless ways...

Let us take a moment on Sunday May 10, Mother's Day in many countries, to make
this "movement" visible, to realize our unity... as the grandmothers did in
Sharon Mehdi's story... to stand together in silence to save the world.

Please read the story, register where you will be standing at www.StandingWomen.org,
and "... stand with us again for five minutes of silence at 1 p.m. your local time
on May 10, 2009, in your local park, school yard, gathering place, or any place
you deem appropriate, to signify your agreement with the statement below.

Please stand at a different hour with a different time zone if 1 p.m. is not your
preferred time. We ask you to invite the men who you care about to join you. We
ask that you bring bells to ring at 1 p.m. to signify the beginning of the five
minutes of silence and to ring again to signify the end of the period of
silence. During the silence, please think about what you individually and we
collectively can do to attain this world. If you need to sit rather than stand,
please feel free to do so. Afterward, hopefully you and your loved ones can
talk together about how we can bring about this world."

Blessings on us all as we come together through these times,
The Team at StandingWomen.org

P.S. Please pass on the invitation...
P.P.S And do let us all know about your experience...family always likes to
hear...

The Sun Is Always Shining
Remember the Sun

What a great OM for yet another day of fog in socal. It is sunny on the inside! ~j

There are times when gloom or darkness causes us to momentarily lose sight of the light. Although it is at these times when the thought of the sun can help us. Its warm, glowing rays brighten even our thoughts, and it’s good to remember that despite appearances the sun is shining right now. We may not be able to see it at this very moment, but if clouds block our view, they are only filtering the sun’s light temporarily. If darkness has fallen, we know that the sun is still shining at this very moment somewhere not too far away, and it’s only a matter of time before it will shine on us again.

When we remember that the sun is still shining, we know that things are still in motion in the universe. Even if life feels like it is at a standstill, sometimes all we need to do is have faith and wait for the time when everything is in its perfect place. Or we can we can choose to follow the cues of the sun and continue doing our work and shining our light, even when we can’t yet see results. In doing so we exercise our patience, making sure we are prepared when opportunity knocks and all other elements are in their right and perfect places.

The sun also reminds us that our own shining truth is never extinguished. Our light shines within us at all times, no matter what else occurs around us. Though the sun gives us daily proof of its existence, sometimes our belief in our own light requires more time. If we think back, however, we can find moments when it showed itself and trust that we will see it again. Like the sun, our light is the energy that connects us to the movements of the universe and the cycles of life and is present at all times, whether we feel its glow or not.

Is Your Brain Being Hijacked? Retrain it!

Great set of articles about former FDA chief Dr. David Kessler on the chemicals that are being put in our food (processed foods), that they know what they are doing and doing in with purpose and that it is in our court to retrain the brain so as not to get caught in the stress traps of unhealthy eating.Nice! Enjoy the read and stop to think...what are your stressors, what is your trap, what are your 'bad' food choices?

Hijacked Brain

"The food industry has figured out what works. They know what drives people to keep on eating," Kessler tells The Associated Press. "It's the next great public health campaign, of changing how we view food, and the food industry has to be part of it."

He calls the culprits foods "layered and loaded" with combinations of fat, sugar and salt — and often so processed that you don't even have to chew much.

Retrain Your Brain

At the crux of research on overeating is the question of how the brain is affected by different stimuli. There is increasing unanimity amongst neuroscientists in recent years regarding how the combination of fat and sugar excites dopamine receptors in the brain, releasing a pleasure-response (dopamine) similar to that initiated by alcohol or drugs.

check out the little video on this one. 5 ingredients or less, what would your grandma do? enjoy eating!

Enter a new form of training today! ~j

While Earth Day is a great way to celebrate our planet, it's important to remember that protecting our planet is more than just a once-a-year event. There are small steps we can all do every day at home to help preserve our resources. To provide some help on the dental side, here's a short list of "home dental" tips that can help you "go green":

1. Turn It Off! Don't leave the water running while you're brushing. Turn it only to rinse your mouth and your brush (you don't even really need to use water before you brush!)

2. Go Natural. Next time you buy toothpaste, pick a natural option like Tom's rather than your normal choice. Natural toothpaste breaks down easier and helps protect our water ways.

3. Compost! Yup... compost. Buy a composting (or biodegradable) toothbrush. Typically made of corn starch, these brushes won't clog our landfill (and some can even help your garden grow!)

4. Soft as a baby's.... Don't brush so hard, slow down and be gentle on your gums. Not only will it save your gums, it will also make your toothbrush last a lot longer, saving you money and reducing waste.

5. Floss! You hear it all the time: "Flossing is the most important thing you can do for your teeth." But did you know flossing can also help the environment? By flossing regularly you'll help prevent major dental work, saving you money and reducing amount of chemicals most traditional dentists use when filling cavities.

It's that easy... five steps you can take at home that will make a difference for our planet. Give it a try the next time you brush!

Dr. Marvin
The Center for Natural Dentistry
317 N. El Camino Real Ste. 106
Encinitas, California 92024
(760) 536-6795
http://NaturalDentistry.us/GoGreen

A little Omega from Natural News~

These are tidbits here pack a pretty good punch. How well are you replenishing your Omega fats? Are you using a reputable source? Please visit the webpage linked for more details. This is just a sampling that caught my eye.

What do I use? I prefer the Arctic Omega by Nordic Naturals. I have also been checking in to Marine Plankton, which is pretty amazing.

Get informed. ~j

Omega-3 consumption in the Western diet has become so low that researchers can't find it in lab sample tissues. A study of men found higher concentrations of omega-3s in blood serum samples taken from healthy males, with lower concentrations taken from men with prostatitis. The lowest rates were found in men with prostate cancer. Fish oil has about 30% omega-3 oil while flaxseed oil has about 60% omega-3 oil. So flax is the only oil that can correct the imbalance in omega-3 & 6 oils in the Western diet.
- You Don't Have to be Afraid of Cancer Anymore by Bill Sardi


Evidence suggests that the ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids should be no greater than 4:1, and 3:1 is even better. Most Americans have an omega-6 to omega-3 profile of 10:1 or greater. Evidence suggests that an imbalance of this type may increase the level of inflammation in the body and increase the risk of heart disease, arthritis, and certain types of cancer, including prostate cancer. For millions of years, humans evolved on a diet rich in natural omega-3 food sources, including free-range game, fish, marine mammals, nuts, and fresh seaweed.
- What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Diabetes: An Innovative Program to Prevent, Treat, and Beat This Controllable Disease by Steven V. Joyal

Omega-3 fish oils help the body in many ways. Omega-3 fish oil is an essential fatty acid. Some claim that it helps protect against a large number of diseases such as cancer, arthritis, heart disease, and many others. Of course, watch your diet and your weight. By all means, take a good multivitamin and mineral supplement every day. Be sure that you get vitamins and supplements from a trusted resource. There is no guarantee that following a healthy diet can prevent BPH or prostate cancer, but it will reduce the odds based on a plethora of published research data.
- Disease Prevention and Treatment by The Life Extension Editorial Staff