TheButtaFlyMovement~Holistic Healing, Massage and Empowerment~

Laughter (Come on, get happy!)

14 Dec 2011 Leave a Comment

by thebuttaflymovement in Uncategorized

“Laughter is the best medicine.”

A bit of a hackneyed old saying, but one oh so laden with truth. It could well be that many of life’s little problems can simply be alleviated by a bout of laughter, yet many of us lose the ability to laugh as readily as we did as youngsters. Children can laugh and giggle over a hundred times a day, whilst the average adult will be lucky to tally up twenty laughs, whether it be a slight chuckle or a hearty guffaw.
Charles Darwin described the effects of laughter and humour rather delightfully as ‘psychological tickling.’ As well as nourishing the psyche, it also has some noteworthy physical benefits.
Laughter and Health
Humour therapy, as purveyed by the famous American physician Patch Adams and now continued by the Clown Doctors who provide a glorious distraction for sick children in hospital, is now medically recognised. Research into the health benefits of laughter has scientifically proven that it can:

Reduce stress
Having a good chuckle decreases levels of stress hormones like cortisol, boosts circulation and expands those blood vessels that tend to constrict when we’re feeling troubled. Laughter harmlessly purges us of any pent up negative feelings.
Boost immune system
Negative emotions such as anger and anxiety are counter-productive to our immunity meaning that we are more likely to become ill. Laughter actually raises the level of antibodies thereby boosting the body’s capacity to ward off infection. Even with more severe illness and disease which compromise the immune system (such as cancer and AIDS), laughter has been shown to have a significant effect in keeping infection at bay. When we laugh, natural killer cells that destroy tumours and viruses also increase. Medicine for thought indeed.
Alleviate depression
Cases of depression (which can lead to other problems such as insomnia and breakdowns) are on the increase. This could be a combination of the strains that can accompany modern day living coupled with more research and knowledge into psychological disorders. Heartfelt laughter has been shown to benefit those who had previously relied on heavy anti-depressant pills and tranquillizers.
Works as a natural painkiller
Endorphins are those marvellous, natural painkillers that have a tendency to surge through our bodies at will and, unlike over-the-counter pills, are completely free. Endorphins released as a result of laughter may help to reduce the intensity of pain in those suffering from arthritis, spondylitis and muscular spasms. (When I was convalescing after major surgery on the spine, my speedy recovery can be attributed as much to the repartee of friends along with re-runs of ‘Will and Grace’ as to the strong hydrochloride and paracetemol tablets prescribed after being discharged from hospital and which now sit – many still in unopened packets – in the first aid cabinet.)
Improve stamina
Laughter is an aerobic exercise (so if you really want to go for the burn, wholeheartedly follow an Oz Aerobics routine and find the funny side of it; you’ll be burning twice as many calories!) Our heart rate increases, our body is fuelled with all-important oxygen, lung capacity is stimulated and our internal organs are, in effect, given a jolly good massage.
Note: 1 minute of belly laughter is equal to 5 minutes on a rowing machine.
Promote a more youthful look
Nobody with a poker face looks particularly youthful, even the young. A youthful face, no matter what age, is animated with a twinkle in the eye and has toned facial muscles as a result of laughter. When you laugh, your face is fed with an increased blood supply which nourishes the skin and makes it glow. A recent study conducted in Norway found that those who allow more laughter into their lives also often live longer than those who are lacking in the sense of humour department.

Let More Laughter into Your Life
Think about what makes you laugh and what tickles those funny responses:

List 5 things that are guaranteed to make you laugh. Keep the list somewhere like your wallet or desk drawer and refer to it when necessary. (If you’re not one for lists, a humorous newspaper clipping, cartoon strip or photo will do just as nicely.)
Play your all time funniest choice of DVD or audio recording.
Organize to meet up with a friend you can always rely on for a giggle
Allow yourself to laugh when you cock up occasionally.
Join in with an informal laughter club gathering. (These are based on the laughter yoga idea of Dr. Madam Kataria in India and are now held all over the world.)
Fake a laugh if you’re feeling glum. This will often lead to genuine laughter.

Laughter is also one of life’s best modes of communication because it is by nature both universal and innate. It works as an instant social ice-breaker and helps us relate to and connect with others (as long as we’re laughing with one another and not at each other.)
It is a powerful way of coping in the face of adversity, making us more buoyant when times are tough. Laughter naturally enhances self-confidence and motivates us to engage outwardly with life rather than being weighed down by too many moments of self-absorption and introspection which can lead to depression.

Health and happiness really do go hand in hand. Now there’s something to laugh about!

Fulfilling My Dream….Healing My Family….it’s ‘Dr. Buckley’ to you!

07 Sep 2011 Leave a Comment

by thebuttaflymovement in Uncategorized

I am a true testament to the power of Acupuncture and the blessing of Natural Health Alternatives, and for this reason alone, I am answering my life’s call to practice acuppuncture and Oriental medicine. Four years ago, I was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. After two years of trying to get pregnant, repeatedly getting sick and running to the hospital, I was told that having children would not happen through my own efforts and I would need the intervention of modern medicine to assist in my desire to have children.

Throughout the years of pain, guilt, embarassment, frustration and confusion, I decided to study Natural Health alternatives, while pursuing a certification in Massage Therapy.

I refused to give in to modern Western medicine, I refused to have surgery and have my ovaries removed, I refused to have my God-given right to motherhood snatched away from me. I sought the expertise clinical services of a Doctor in Georgia. I assure you within three months of acupuncture combbined with Traditional Chinese Medicinal Herbs…..I was healed! I started acupuncture with the Doctor in January of 2010, and in June 2010 I became pregnant!

Acupuncture proved to me that I did not have to succumb to the majority and take my diagnosis as an end-all. I am a strong believer that our body is more than capable of healing itself, given the opportunity…and this beautiful earth and all of its natural resources is the one true original pharmacy. My treatment in acupuncture taught me life lessons in how to manage stress, how to make wise choices about what I feed my body, and how to identify the emotional burdens that weigh heavily on my mind, body and spirit through an appropiate, healthy perspective.

Nevertheless, I would love to practice acupuncture and Oriental medicine in efforts to make available a similiar peace of mind and rich education to others. Specifically, I am most interested in one day owning my own herbal pharmacy and teaching the holistic practice of Traditional Chinese medicine to youth and young adults. I also want to encourage and empower women, young and old, in the importance of proper womb-care and the advantages of maintaining BALANCE within their body, mind and spirit.

With this education and I plan to use my experiences at ACAOM as leverage to continue to live holistically as an example for others and a living testament of the healing power of Acupuncture!

I love this Blog!!!…..follow the flow…

07 Sep 2011 Leave a Comment

by thebuttaflymovement in Uncategorized

The Seed of Your Soul

22 03 2010

There is love in your heart. Do you feel it?

There is an inner knowing that cannot be disputed. It is planted deep within the very soil of your existence.  It is  up to you how you choose to nurture or starve that potent wonder.   This seed has the potential to sprout with abundant and expansive energy.  It can grow without abandon, and grow stronger with every joyous gift you give it.

Or it can retreat; shrivel up into a very dark and dying existence.  The sprout is there underneath the soil forever at your disposal.  How will you take care of it?  Feed the seed with passion and abundance every single day, and you  expand and you will feel that greater part of you.

What you give your seed will determine what fruits are bared .  Reach into that very deep profound space of knowing and hold that seed with loving kindness. How magical is this?!

How you hold, care and nurture this seed is your choice.  Your seed responds with joy when appreciated, loved and respected.  Your seed answers when asked for guidance.  Your seed grows stronger in the inner awareness of knowing exactly what you need for this life.

Your seed is your inner light.

It grows brighter with every attempt you make to love it and support it.   It grows stronger with every effort you make to believe in it and watch it through.  It grows more expansive every time you heed its call.  It is the greatest part of you!  I want to shout that on the highest mountain top.

It is your most wise self that answers all your queries and concerns.  Allow your light to shine without limits.  Your light has no borders and does not desire to remain within the lines of your self- imposed barriers.  It wants out.  Allow it to sprout in any direction you find joy and pleasure.  It will take you to the places you need to go.  It will be your constant guide and companion, even when all else seems to have failed you.  The living sprout within you offers you indestructible truth.  The truth you desperately grasp for yet find unattainable.  The truth you desperately seek yet often settle for the temporary fix of the material world.

What does your sprout look like today?  Take a moment now to really reflect on this.

Is it hiding?  Has it retreated?  Is it yearning to be fed? Is it yearning for the light and love you have to offer?

Hold that seed now and ask it what it needs. Ask the seed how best you could serve it today.  Take a moment to go within.

Close your eyes and be with the moment.

Look lovingly at your seed, and offer your support.  Tell your seed you are now here and willing to love and offer whatever it needs. Give your seed your complete and total attention. Feel the connection you have made with it.  Now with closed  eyes , and a very open heart, just listen.

The answer is revealed.

Your Travelling Yogi

Piera
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Traveling Tips For your Next Trippy Trip

17 03 2010

Please note:  I wrote this just after my ordeal of missing my cruise ship on my recent vacation to the Caribbean.  There is fowl language, crude remarks and some minor sexual content.  I present my raw thoughts on THE BEST trip I have ever taken in my life. I am usually well mannered but in light of the circumstances I found myself,  the irritated B*tch came out. There were many ZEN moments, and times where I just used my yogic training to relax and get centred.  Here is the UNzen side of me. I want to be quite genuine with all my readers

Trippy Traveling Tips

I went on a trip solo for the first time in my life. I had traveled solo before but for business and work. Never for pleasure or vacation. As a single female traveling I LEARNED A HELL of a lot. LOSING my luggage for 2 days was not fun but it taught me OCEANS of lessons. I learned the most about myself and my inner strength.

So now that I can laugh about my trip here are my suggestions, JUST IN CASE you lose your luggage, a flight, a train, or a big CRUISE SHIP (like I did) :

1) ALWAYS bring an extra pair of underwear or two or three! Nothing is ever guaranteed when you travel and so be prepared for anything. That means losing your LUGGAGE and having to rough it till you do. Make the roughing it not so rough by having at least 1 pair of underwear in your carry on or backpack. Running around trying to find underwear in tourist areas where no one speaks english for a single traveling female is both unsafe and fucking irritating!

Asking a Mexican man selling sombreros on the street, who doesn’t know one word of english where *MUTANDI are sold really gets you know where, and if you show the dude your own underwear he thinks your a prostitute needing some cash. AND Trust me, going commando in tropical climate temps is not fun past the first 20 minutes. Moving on….

*(Italian for underwear, I tried this , as I thought perhaps there was a slight chance it was said the same in spanish- umm not really, actually not even close.)

2) PACK a toothbrush & toothpaste in your purse or carry on. Stress makes halitosis a new reality even if you never had it before. If your mouth smells NO ONE WILL WANT TO TALK WITH YOU! and the last thing you need is for people to ignore you when your lost, stranded, or missing your luggage and don’t know how the fuck you will ever get it back!

3) While on the topic of what to pack in your carry on, I suggest the following for the ladies CONCEALER- you sure will need it, because you won’t sleep, eat or relax until you finally get to your destination, or find your bags or get on that cruise ship you missed at the first port of call ( umm ya had to add my own experience). IT MIGHT BE DAYS, OR EVEN A WEEK!! So in order to hide the hell you already look like, grab the CONCEALER LADIES.

It will save you from looking like death to the world as you travel your cute ass from airport to airport, bus shuttle to hotels, and train stations or endless taxi rides to your desired port of call. CONCEALER will at least make you semi attractive so that if you need the help of a passerby he will actually consider speaking to you and not wonder if your a bag lady in desperate need of an asylum, next….

4) Always bring FOOD! I don’t care how heavy it makes your bag. Running around airports, hotels and bus shuttles, screaming at airline personnel, calling and telling off your travel agent, CRYING because you can’t find UNDERWEAR, requires ENERGY.

Unless you want to prepare for the Survivor auditions, I suggest you pack some non perishable items IE: crackers, trail mix, nuts, and dried fruit. The last thing you want to do is pass out in some god forsaken land, where they wouldn’t even know how to take your temperature- yes this is reality in some countries. EAT and then you can move on…..

5) ALWAYS carry a cell phone and camera. The cell phone is so you can tell off every travel agent, travel insurance company, cruise ship and airline you have to deal with. The camera is take pictures of the mess your in. Not only will this help with insurance claims, but a cam can really capture those moments of INSANITY which later you’ll want to FACE BOOK, FLICKER, TWITTER and MYSPACE your ass off so that all your friends can laugh with you later of course.

6) As for CONDOMS, you can leave packing those in your luggage. If you lose your luggage don’t worry about the chance of having sex. The last thing you’ll desire is to get jiggy when you haven’t showered in days, your hair is looking like a nest, your wearing the same pants and socks for God knows how long and all you want to do is bite every person head off. I assure you its not the time to get laid…

Bon Voyage, and good luck….

Your traveling Yogi

Piera
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Yoga Boosts Athletic Performance

20 02 2010

When I first walked into a yoga class I scoffed at the idea that I was going to get anything more than some light stretching to loosen my tight sports addicted muscles.  In a previous post I explained how humbling yoga made me that very first time.  Actually it still does in each and every practice

What I also learned about yoga, is that it is a perfect complement to sports and athletic training.  Many professional athletes incorporate Yoga into their training regimes.  Instead of viewing it as just a way to “stretch” tight hamstrings, athletes and coaches are realizing that Yoga has way more to offer for the specific purpose of  enhancing the mental and physical states needed for all kinds of sports.

A  fellow yoga instructor and dear friend I know teaches the military. Yoga specifically helps by increasing focus, strength, stamina and balancing out heavy duty physical training that can leave soldiers very tight, and prone to injuries.

Yoga does wonders for RUNNERS, triathletes, swimmers, golf enthusiasts, hockey basketball and baseball players, and many other competitive sports.  Many OLYMPIC athletes have included regular yoga practice to get the edge they are looking for when it comes to improving focus, concentration, breathing and strength.

5 Benefits of Yoga For Athletes and Sports Fanatics Alike

1. Improves Mental Concentration and Focus:

A more settled breath, means a more settled mind.  Each and every time you practice Yoga you are inducing the relaxation response and you train the mind to become more still and centered.  Athletes can utilize this method of training the mind to increase focus, concentration and enhance mental states.  They say competing is 80% mental or more.  Why not let Yoga improve your mental state as you climb those steep hills or power through the last few miles of your marathon run. Its at those most intense times when fatigue begins to play with your mind.  Yoga helps you still the mind, and OBSERVE it rather than get pulled into its grip.

2. Improve Core Strength and Integration

Its all about the CORE.  How many times have we heard this? I know, but its actually quite significant and relevant in sports.  Your core is the center of your power and ability to maintain balance.  A loose core, means loose everything.  Sports require balance, and alot of co ordination.  A strong core helps your upper and lower body’s muscles to work synergistically and in better unison.  Yoga is about integration on all levels.  The core is one of these levels.  Yoga requires a strong core to keep the spine in proper and balanced alignment.  

3. Improves Flexibility and Increase Range of Motion:

Increasing flexibility is probably the most well known benefit of Yoga.  For athletes this means better slam dunks, home runs and faster pace time.  Also repetitive training regimes can cause muscles to become tight and prone to injury.  Yoga helps to release scar tissue from over use and repetitive actions.  Also getting that golf swing perfected requires a substantial range of motion.  Yoga will improve tight deltoids, rhomboids, traps and lats which are all involved in upper body movement.

4. Improves the Mind Body Connection:

Yoga helps us to really get in tune with our bodies.  You begin to awaken to subtle shifts in your energy and body.  Your awareness of your body gets stronger and this can help any athlete to know their bodies on an even deeper  level.  Connecting with the body is synonymous with communicating with our bodies.  Our bodies give us signals everyday and often if we are not attuned to this language we will ignore pertinent information.  Yoga helps you to really LISTEN to what your body needs, and desires.  

5. Helps Prevent INJURY- the Nemesis of all hardcore training athletes

Improved flexibility means less stains, sprains and  torn ligaments and tendons!  Every athlete can confirm that injuries are not fun and apart from being physically problematic they are detrimental to one’s mental and psychological state as well .  It’s not an easy or wise endeavor to “train around an injury”.  Yoga helps keep muscles more flexible thereby putting less strain on ligaments and tendons and joints.  Less strain means less stress and a greater range of motion without compromising the integrity of the body.

So get on the mat!

Improve your running time.  Increase your speed.  Jump higher.  Hit farther.  All of this with LESS risk of injury.  Keep your body healthy and your mind and spirit follow suit.

Keep walking lightly,

till the next asana…..

Namaste

Piera
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Stretch Like a Pigeon

11 02 2010

I’m on a hip opening kick.  Have you noticed?

Recent events have brought me to the awareness that my hips and hip flexors truly need attention.  If I am going to really address my lower back pain, I need to really focus a good part of my practice to releasing the tightness and tension I hold here.

Lower back pain is very much influenced by the state of your hips.  Chances are if you suffer from lower back pain, your hips, hip flexors, and ilio psoas muscles are tight.

The hip flexors run from the front of the pelvis to the rear or posterior pelvis and attach to the vertebral spine.  So the tight muscles will pull on the lower back, and cause tension and stress on those muscles as well.  Hence the development of chronic low back pain.

Psoas or Hip flexors

Because most of western society sits a hell of a lot, our hip flexors are constantly contracted.  Ideally we should either sit on the ground with knees open to the side, or stand, walk or be more active.

The hips directly affect the whole spinal alignment in every pose.  Whether you are in a standing, sitting or twisting asana the hips are very important and you must have full awareness of their alignment.

For example if you are performing a balancing pose and you sacrifice the alignment of the hips to get that hand to toe position, you are surely going to compromise the whole alignment of the spine.

You would do far better to use a prop such as a strap, and keep the hips leveled and aligned.  This will encourage the hips to open and actually get you to perform the pose without a prop in a safer and more effective way.

Remember that whenever your spine is out of alignment, you really fail to get the most therapeutic effects of yoga.  The whole key in every pose is to allow the spine to open, release, and expand with every breath.  Your spine can’t do that if its off center, torqued and compromised by tension and overexertion.

Listen to your body, it will communicate exactly what you need.

King of Hip Openers

In my opinion the Pigeon pose and all its lovely and delicious variations is the Reigning master of hip openers.

Benefits of the Pigeon Pose:

• Opens hips in a very deep yet safe manner.  You can easily go as far as your body will allow.

• It allows the force of gravity to mainly do the work.  So this pose allows you the opportunity to truly focus on the breath, on relaxing, and LETTING GO. This is a pose that teaches me, time and time again the importance of just letting  go, and allowing my natural rhythm to flow with the pose.

• Encourages the ilio psoas muscle to relax, elongate and release as well.  This very deeply situated muscle, is one of the most difficult to relax, and release.  Once this muscle can relax, the door opens to so much more space to be made.  This means you can do deeper in all your asanas.

Tips:

• Begin by keep the front bent leg more angled, by keeping the foot closer to the pelvis.  Eventually the goal is to get the shin to be parallel to the front of your mat. This takes time, and deep long breaths!

• Also in the beginning you may find that you cannot fold over the front leg, as in the picture above.  This is ok!  Keep the spine upright, and the chest open.  This will strengthen the back and give you a great chest opener as your hips get stretched. Eventually you will be able to go down to the elbows, and then right down placing your head on the mat. Be patient

• Use the back leg that is outstretched behind you to help you align and keep the hips straight in this pose.  Just because this a more passive pose doesn’t mean you lose touch with the alignment of the hips

• I find pressing into my toes and elevating the heel very helpful to feel the placement of my hips.  By pressing my toes into the mat I can use this leverage to straighten my hips and go deeper once I feel my hips releasing.

• Above all play and have fun with this pose.  I often see so much suffering during this pose.  It shouldn’t be painful! PULL BACK.  And find the flow and rhythm of the BREATH.  This will change your experience of this pose like magic!  The more conscious you are of the breath in this pose, the more you will get out of it.  Breath deeper, longer, and find a sweet RHYTHM.

Then watch the magic.

There is opening, expanding and releasing like a lotus flower!

Namaste

Piera
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One Love- Remembering Bob Marley

6 02 2010

Bob Marley -  February 6, 1945 -  May 11, 1981

Happy Birthday Bob!

In remembrance of a great artist and soul I dedicate this post to Bob Marley.

YES to all of that. And that’s what keeps me on my mat everyday. Through the thick and the thicker.

So I’ve made it my intention to broaden my practice and accept that Yoga is not just Ashtanga or a certain style on the mat.  Yoga is the union with the greatest part of ourselves.  The divine Self if you may.  So as a Travelling Yogi I invite changes and new experiences on my path everyday.  Hot yoga is one way that truly is getting me out of my “safe” space.

Ready to get hot?

Sweaty?

Fit?

Toned? and DETOXIFIED?  Then stay with me here and read on!

Why Hot Yoga?

I believe incorporating hot yoga a few times a week,  really can offer you an experience that may bring you benefits you may not receive through just regular gym workouts, or sauna therapies.  It also can improve your RUNNING, WEIGHT TRAINING,  and all SPORTS training.

The 5 Hot Benefits of Hot Yoga!

1)  Encourages Detoxification!

The hot environment of a hot yoga class induces more sweating and you therefore can release more toxins from your body.  Sweating is good for you.  Just be aware of how much you do lose during a class.  Bring a water bottle and add  a good electrolyte supplement if you are one of those people that excessively sweat or have low blood pressure.  Always go by how your body feels.

2)  Helps Cardiovascular Fitness

Hotter temperatures increase your heart rate naturally.  So during a Hot Yoga class you will feel your heart rate soar higher than a regular Hatha style class.  Again proceed with caution if you have cardiovascular health issues.  If you have hypertension or high blood pressure it is not advised to do hot yoga.  For those that are healthy otherwise you will find your cardio system will get stronger and you will have more endurance in all other activities you perform.  I personally found that my running has improved significantly since practicing hot yoga. I can run longer and with more stamina. Not to shabby!

3)  Encourages Flexibility:

Like all types of yoga, Hot Yoga encourages muscular flexibility.  The hot temperature helps get muscles warmed up and hot  throughout the practice.  I find this especially inviting in the winter months when I feel more stiff and cold internally.

There are caveats to this extra flexibility.   Being in a warm room may place you at risk of OVER stretching.  So as much as its so tempting to go beyond what you normally can do in a regular yoga class, DON’T! Trust me on this one.  You don’t want to pop a hamstring or knee joint because you feel more loose.  Do what you normally are capable of doing.

Actually my advice here is DO LESS when you first begin hot yoga classes. This means PULL BACK a bit in your poses and don’t go all out.  Less is definitely more in YOGA.  You still reap all the benefits, and it will give you more room to really focus on the breath!

4) Improves Metabolism and Digestion:

Many report that hot yoga helps boost the metabolism and also curbs over eating.  Improved digestion also is big one with many hot yoga practitioners. I’ve noticed since incorporating more hot yoga classes, that my appetite has diminished significantly and is more stable.  So I don’t hit sugar lows or  raging cravings as much! Very nice

Also, it appears that the increase in circulation and enhanced detoxification  really help to improve the digestion, assimilation and elimination of food through the system.  Yoga improves peristalsis action of the colon with poses such as twists, forward bends and inversions.  The heat increases the heart rate and thus raises the metabolism more so than a gentle or regular yoga class.  So if you are struggling with some extra pounds or digestive upset hot yoga may help improve your weight management goals too!

5)  Improved Circulation and Raises Core Body Temperature

All yoga helps with circulation and stagnant energy.  Hot Yoga provides an added element – HEAT that helps those with circulation problems get warm and stay warm all day.  I’ve noticed personally a huge difference in my tolerance for cold weather.  I normally am always feeling very cold. My hands and feet are often like ice! But with temperatures below freezing lately here in Toronto, I’ve actually been outside more!  Now this is like headline news in my life.  I usually hibernate indoors or the yoga studio all winter.  I’ve been outside more, and exploring the winter delights.  Thank you HOT YOGA

I want to hear your HOT YOGA story! Get down and sweaty with this.  Tell me what it does for you, how it has improved your life or just how much you struggle with it.  Lets hear it all

Keep the deordant handy, lots of towels, and drink drink drink the H2O…..

Namaste

Piera
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3 Yoga Poses to Relieve Stress in Just 20 Minutes a Day!

28 01 2010

I know time is valuable.  Time is now a precious commodity.  Sometimes there isn’t time to breath it seems. And some of us really aren’t breathing much at all.    How you breath sets  your whole mental, emotional and physical state for the day!

Deep lower belly or diaphragmatic breathing is the most beneficial way you can regain your focus and calm during harried times and circumstances.  So when the kids are screaming, deadlines have to be met and your mother in law is coming over for the weekend, get on the mat to stay sane and your best amazing self.

YOU don’t need hours of YOGA to gain benefits!

MAKING time for Yoga should be a no brainer.  Yoga will encourage you to breath in PURE  energy enhancing PRANA.  Yoga will “reset” your whole state so you are BALANCED, FOCUSED and CLEAR.  And you don’t need hours of Yoga to gain the benefits! You actually will be more efficient and therefore need less time to do all those “must do” tasks.

Actually a good 20 minute session will do you a world of a difference when life gets really hairy and you feel tied up in knots.

So lets get those knots unraveled, that breath flowing and your JOYFUL heart brimming with energy.

3 POSES + 20 MINUTES +AWESOME INTENTION= A STRESS BUSTING PRACTICE

Here are the three poses I believe are some of the best for receiving the most out of a yoga practice in a short amount of time.

These poses are often considered foundational to any Yoga practice.  You will gain strength, increase flexibility and encourage cleansing of the whole system.

Pose  #1 Warrior Pose:

Any warrior pose can be implemented and choose to do all three for maximum benefits.  Warrior poses are standing poses and as such encourage the building of strength and stamina.  They also nurture INTERNAL strength and are excellent to improve self esteem.

In Warrior poses be very conscious of the alignment of your hips, you want to direct them so that they remain equal and not off center.  If your right leg is forward for example, encourage the left hip to come forward, and not sway back putting the lower torso out of proper alignment. Hips are huge in this pose!  Keep them squared and equally balanced.  Also remember to keep shoulders relaxed, and not hunching up to your ears.  Think of lowering the shoulders, yet keeping them engaged inwardly.

Pose # 2  :   Parivrtta Parsvakonasana Or Revolved Side Angle Pose

This is a twist type of asana.  Twists are very beneficial for the health of the spine and organs.  Twists encourage spinal circulation and help relieve blocked energy channels to the spine.  Twists also DETOXIFY organ systems.  Digestive organs get massaged and are helped to digest, assimilate and eliminate food.  Also the whole LYMPHATIC system is stimulated and encouraged to release toxins and waste products.

Again be conscious of the hips in this pose.  Keep them aligned and the spine long and straight.  Open the heart center as you twist to the side and keep the shoulders balanced with the hips.

Pose #3   Sarvangasana  or Shoulder Stand:

I’ve included this particular pose because its a very effective nerve and glandular balancing inversion.  It helps in so many ways to detoxify and re balance the whole system.  Shoulder stand will help you release toxins from the organs and lymph system.  In addition to this it has a very healthy effect on the hormonal system because it helps to regulate the thyroid.  A very special gland that regulates the metabolism and hormonal system of the body.  Shoulder stand also calms the nervous system, encourages SLEEP and tranquility.  Don’t we all need a great night sleep?

If you just do these three poses,  you have a well rounded practice you can do in just 2o minutes!  Even if you only have 15-20 minutes, THE EFFECTS are amazing.

Get on your mat!

5 minutes becomes 10 minutes.  10 minutes becomes 30 minutes, and 30 minutes becomes  a life time!

It did for me

keep walking lightly,

Namaste

Piera
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Healing Pain without pills and medications!

25 01 2010

How does pain and suffering affect your life?  How do you deal with pain?

Instead of going on auto pilot mode, please stop and feel the pain and put down the pain relief meds for a moment.  Read the following instead……

Some pain is physical.  Some pain comes from emotional blocks and unresolved issues.  Some pain is inflicted upon us from seemingly unforeseen causes.  Consciously you may not know why, but subconsciously you are holding a pattern that enables the pain to manifest again and again.  Pain may come in different forms, but they all seem to have this common thread.

Pain is universal to human beings.  We all feel pain during different times in our lives.  How you deal with your pain is very significant and often determines how well you get through and heal it.

Pain warns you.  Pain notifies you that things are not right and that you MUST take attention to your body, mind and soul.  Pain is a difficult thing to comprehend sometimes, and we often feel victims when we don’t know how to handle it.

Speaking from personal experience from dealing with intense pain, I now have come to a very great appreciation for pain.  Pain is a teacher.  Pain has been one of my greatest teachers.

What I have learned from pain:

• Physical pain tells me I need to STOP, and step back and realize I am not present
• Emotional pain tells me I am human, and encourages me to start ASKING questions about what is going on in my life
• Emotional upsets and pain also alert me to taking a moment to realize I am not PRESENT, and that I need to feel the emotions and allow them to just be.  Eventually they dissipate just as they came on.
• Physical pain also alerts me to the reality that I need to take a BREATH and become still in order to HEAR the VOICE of my pain

Your pain and my pain has a VOICE.  It is one way your mind, body and spirit COMMUNICATES with you.

Next time you find yourself in PAIN and are suffering do the following:

1) Just STOP: yes pause and completely stop yourself from moving.  In stillness there comes clarity

2) BREATH:  Once you have stilled the body, STILL the mind and everything else follows.  Remember the BREATH is your direct link to connecting with your INNER GREATNESS.  Breath into the pain, BREATH to release the stress, and breath to FEEL your whole body.  The mind follows the breath. Slow the breath, and you slow the mind.

3) Ask and Assess: Now that you are core connected, still, and more clear, things are given a chance to shift.  You have opened your channels to receive the answers you need to make better choices for yourself and alleviate the blocks that are causing you pain.  Pain is blockage. More precisely pain is a blockage to energy channels due to repressed feelings, emotions and issues.

Implement the three steps above every time you find yourself in pain or anxious with emotional turbulence.  Each step takes your through the pain,  instead of SUPPRESSING the pain.  Medication is a very disadvantageous way to deal with pain because it SUPPRESSES  pain. Meds do not HEAL your pain. Please know that you can feel your pain and not be destroyed by it!

Yoga also is a great way to relieve stress and manage pain.  It utilizes the breath and brings you to experience more PRESENCE in your life.  Each time you step on your mat, you are given the opportunity to Stop,  TUNE  in, and breath through the resistance.

I’m always here to hold your hand   Reply with questions or your own thoughts   Love it all!

Namaste

Mad loves

Piera
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Categories : Uncategorized

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“A Cup of Chi, please?”

18 Apr 2010 Leave a Comment

by thebuttaflymovement in Uncategorized

Chi (pronounced chee and also spelled qi or ch’i) is energy – the life giving energy that unites body, mind and spirit. Everyone has Chi. When you die, your Chi is no longer there.

It is a lifetime (or many lifetimes) of study to understand, develop and direct one’s Chi as the Masters do. However, great strides can be made to increase and direct one’s Chi with simple exercises and practices. It is always worth the effort. It is amazing how well our body responds to proper care even if we’ve neglected it or been abusive for a long time. This is part of the function of Chi.

When your Chi is strong, balanced, flowing and focused you exude energy and good health. Good health and strong, balanced Chi are almost one and the same. In Chinese Medicine one of the causes of ill health is the stagnation or blockage of Chi.

In the best-selling Between Heaven and Earth, A Guide to Chinese Medicine, authors Harriet Beinfield and Efrem Korngold write,

“That which animates life is called Qi. The concept of Qi is absolutely at the heart of Chinese Medicine. Life is defined by Qi even though it is impossible to grasp, measure, quantify, see or isolate. Immaterial yet essential, the material world is formed by it. An invisible force known only by its effects, Qi is recognized indirectly by what it fosters, generates and protects.

Matter is Qi taking shape. Mountains forming, forests growing, rivers streaming, and creatures proliferating are all manifestations of Qi. In the human being, all functions of the body and mind are manifestations of Qi: sensing, cogitating, feeling, digesting, stirring, and propagating. Qi begets movement and heat. It is the fundamental mystery and miracle.”

So, what disrupts Chi?

Chis is considered the transformation and transportation agent in the body. Chi=the Energy, Life Force becomes stagnate or blocked with:

• Emotions
• Stress
• Seasonal Changes
• Accidents
• Grief
• Fear

In traditional Chinese medicine, emotions and physical health are intimately connected. Sadness, nervous tension and anger, worry, fear, and overwork are each associated with a particular organ in the body. For example, irritability and inappropriate anger can affect the liver and result in menstrual pain, headache, redness of the face and eyes, dizziness and dry mouth.

A diagnosis in traditional Chinese medicine is highly individualized. Once an organ system is identified, the unique symptoms of the patient determine the practitioner’s treatment approach.

Using the liver again as an example, breast distension, menstrual pain, and irritability during menses are treated with certain herbs and acupuncture points, and migraines headaches, dizziness, and inappropriate anger with redness of the face point to a different type of liver pattern and is treated in a different way.

What does the liver have to do with migraines? Organ systems in the traditional Asian sense may include the Western medical-physiological function, but are also part of a holistic body system. The liver, for example, ensures that energy and blood flow smoothly throughout the body. It also regulates bile secretion, stores blood, and is connected with the tendons, nails, and eyes.

By understanding these connections, we can see how an eye disorder such as conjunctivitis might be due to an imbalance in the liver, or excess menstrual flow may be due to dysfunction in the liver’s blood-storing ability. Besides emotions, other factors such as dietary, environmental, lifestyle, and hereditary factors also contribute to the development of imbalances.

Spleen

• Emotions – worry, dwelling or focusing too much on a particular topic, excessive mental work
• Spleen Function – Food digestion and nutrient absorption. Helps in the formation of blood and energy. Keeps blood in the blood vessels. Connected with muscles, mouth, and lips. Involved in thinking, studying, and memory.
• Symptoms of Spleen Imbalance – Tired, loss of appetite, mucus discharge, poor digestion, abdominal distension, loose stools or diarrhea. Weak muscles, pale lips. Bruising, excess menstrual blood flow, and other bleeding disorders.

Lung

• Emotions – grief, sadness, detached.
• Lung Function – Respiration. Forms energy from air, and helps to distribute it throughout the body. Works with the kidney to regulate water metabolism. Important in the immune system and resistance to viruses and bacteria. Regulates sweat glands and body hair, and provides moisture to the skin.
• Symptoms of Lung Imbalance – Shortness of breath and shallow breathing, sweating, fatigue, cough, frequent cold and flu, allergies, asthma, and other lung conditions. Dry skin. Depression and crying.

Liver

• Emotions – anger, resentment, frustration, irritability, bitterness, “flying off the handle”.
• Liver Function – Involved in the smooth flow of energy and blood throughout the body. Regulates bile secretion, stores blood, and is connected with the tendons, nails, and eyes.
• Symptoms of Liver Imbalance – breast distension, menstrual pain, headache, irritability, inappropriate anger, dizziness, dry, red eyes and other eye conditions, tendonitis.

• Emotions – lack of enthusiasm and vitality, mental restlessness, depression, insomnia, despair.
• Heart Function – Regulates the heart and blood vessels. Responsible for even and regular pulse. Influences vitality and spirit. Connected with the tongue, complexion, and arteries.
• Symptoms of Heart Imbalance – Insomnia, heart palpitations and irregular heart beat, excessive dreaming, poor long-term memory, psychological disorders.

• Emotions – fearful, weak willpower, insecure, aloof, isolated.
• Kidney Function – Key organ for sustaining life. Responsible for reproduction, growth and development, and maturation. Involved with lungs in water metabolism and respiration. Connected with bones, teeth, ears, and head hair.
• Symptoms of Kidney Imbalance – Frequent urination, urinary incontinence, night sweats, dry mouth, poor short-term memory, low back pain, ringing in the ears, hearing loss, and other ear conditions. Premature grey hair, hair loss, and osteoporosis.

‘Chi’-Therapy;  There are  a host of Alternative Medicine Practitioners that give free consultations for your personalized treatment plan in balancing you Chi-and releasing/reversing dis-eases in your body. Services such as, Acupuncture, Herbal medicine, Tuina massage therapy, TensioTherapy and Well-Being Retreat (self-care)  are good therapies that teach patients new skills to take care of themselves and become a holistic well-being. 

So, if your emotions are making you sick, find your nearest Natural Health Practitioner(Acupunturist, Massage Therapist, Chiropractor, etc) and ask for, “A Cup of Chi, Please?”

April Shower Me with Homeopathy!…Holistic Remedies for Sinus/Allergy Relief

05 Apr 2010 2 Comments

by thebuttaflymovement in Uncategorized

It’s a wealth of Information but you will appreciate it!!

Natural Relief from Allergies

Millions of people suffer some type of allergy symptoms. The most common being respiratory ailments brought on by reactions to molds, pollen, dust mites, etc.
Symptoms commonly include watery eyes, runny nose uncontrollable sneezing, sinus headaches, itchy hives or rashes, and other irritations of the skin. Some also experience shortness of breath and wheezing.
Other symptoms may be internal and include diarrhea, chronic indigestion, and nausea.
 FYI:
•Avoid all sources of MSG and artificial sweeteners; both are known to damage the cells that make up your nervous system.
•Take a high quality probiotic on a daily basis; this is the easiest step that you can take right away to improve the strength of your immune system.
•Consider doing a juice fast to help remove stored toxins from your tissues, particularly from the insulating sheath that surrounds your nervous system.
•Ensure adequate vitamin D status. Vitamin D is essential for optimal nervous system and immune system health.

1. Nasal Passage and Sinus Washing: The Neti Pot
The Neti pot naturally cleanses and refreshes the nasal passages to help relieve allergy symptoms. A simple saline solution works well to wash out allergens and thin nasal mucous, but you can boost the effectiveness of the wash by adding a tonic of goldenseal and freeze-dried nettles. The goldenseal acts as an astringent and has some anti-microbial properties. I usually recommend a Neti Pot cleanse once or twice daily.
2. Quercetin: The Anti-Allergy Bioflavanoid
Quercetin, a naturally occurring bioflavanoid, has properties that reduce the inflammation associated with allergies and control the release of histamine. Quercetin is non-toxic, but barely soluble in water and therefore is not absorbed very well. I usually recommend combining it with bromelin, an enzyme from pineapple, to increase its absorption. Quercetin dosed 1,000 -2,000mg per day in 4-6 divided is optimal for reducing allergies. Vitamin C also helps to reduce histamine.
3. Acupuncture/Massage Therapy
Based on the idea that stimulating points outside the body can change or initiate reactions inside, in this case treatment is thought to affect the immune system, where allergic reactions begin. In a small but significant study of 26 hay fever patients published in the American Journal of Chinese Medicine, acupuncture reduced symptoms in all 26 — without side effects. A second study of some 72 people totally eliminated symptoms in more than half, with just two treatments.

Sinus Massage: It is not always necessary to commit to a full body massage. Many spas and private practitioners will offer or accommodate a sinus massage. This massage concentrates on the face, head, neck and ears to move along blocked residue as well as enhance blood flow to get the sinus cavity clear and healthy. By gently rubbing under the eyes and pushing toward the ears, any sinus obstructions will move to and out the Eustachian tube. Working along the neck (especially the throat area) will continue the process. In addition, the head, jaw, feet and hands (feet and hand work is called reflexology) will also offer areas to be opened.

4. HEPA
A simple HEPA filter placed in your bedroom, where you spend significant hours daily, is beneficial for reducing airborne allergens brought in from outside and well as those that reside indoors. If you are particularly sensitive, washing your outdoor clothes and even your hair after spending significant time outside can help reduce the allergens brought into the house.
5. Eat Well!
A diet rich in anti-oxidants from fresh fruits and vegetables and Omega-3 fatty acids from fish or flaxseed are important in controlling the inflammatory response associated with allergies.
BONUS: Locally produced honey can possible be beneficial in helping those who suffer from allergies. Theorized to work similarly to the “vaccine” the honey made from the flowers and plants in your local area may help ward off your reaction to allergies. I would consider dosing 1-3 spoonfuls per day for 1-2 months prior to allergy season.
CHAMOMMILE Tea is used to reduce duration of hay fever attacks.
EPHEDRA Relieves congestion & bronchial spasms.

EUCALYPTUS Used in steam inhalation to ease congestion.

EYEBRIGHT Tincture or capsules reduce hay fever symptoms.

GINGER Reduces inflammation, antimicrobial.

LICORICE ROOT Reduces inflammation, antiviral, antibacterial.

NETTLE Extract acts as an expectorant, reduces sinus inflammation.

ROOIBOS Has antihistamine properties. A tea is sometimes helpful in relieving symptoms.

ST. JOHN’S WORT Capsules are used to relieve sinus headache.
Other Herbs/Teas/Tinctures for Sinus/Allergies
Astragalus * Echinacea * Elder * Eucalyptus * Eyebright * Garlic * Myrrh * Oregon Grape * Peppermint

Fight Allergies with Homeopathy

It was actually a homeopath–Dr. Charles Blackley–who, in the 1870s, first drew the connection between seasonal allergies and pollen. These days, self–prescribed homeopathic remedies for allergies can be found in your local health food store, and are best purchased in a 6C, 9C, or 12C potency.

Allium cepa

This is made from red onions. When we peel onions, tears pour out, our eyes get itchy, and we want to rub them. People needing Allium cepa will often also have a profuse acrid watery nasal discharge that burns the skin around their nose. They feel better outside and worse inside in a warm room.
Nux vomica

People needing Nux vomica tend to feel quite irritable and intolerant of others when their allergies are bothering them. A draft of cold air can trigger a bout of sneezing and they generally feel chilly. There is irritation, too, in the nose, mouth, and ears. They sneeze and their nose runs a lot during the day, with lots of watery mucus. At night, they are stuffy and congested.

Wyethia

With Wyethia, sufferers have an extremely itchy upper palate, extending to the throat. They try to scratch it with their tongue. Their throat feels dry and scalded and they clear their throat a lot, though ineffectively.

Sabadilla

Sabadilla is good for a person with an itchy palate, who also suffers frequent violent sneezing attacks and possibly an itchy anus.

Gelsemium

People needing Gelsemium (yellow jasmine) are worn out by the sneezing and coughing. They just want to lie down, and may have a dizzy headache, and feel nauseous. Gelsemium is often needed with a change of seasons, especially in spring and at the end of summer.

Galphimia glauca

Galphimia glauca is for someone who is very sensitive to the change of seasons. It is a remedy about which we know very little specifically. It has, however, helped sufferers with a broad spectrum of symptoms including hay fever, bronchial coughs, and hives produced in reaction to an allergen.
Nettle (Urtica dioica): Nettle has enjoyed a long history as a treatment for seasonal allergies. Dr. Andrew Weil, author of Natural Health, Natural Medicine (Houghton Mifflin, 1998) reports success with this herb to treat his own allergies. Be careful not to confuse this herb with another species, U. Urens, which contains high levels of leukotrienes and histamine.

Ephedra (Ephedra sinicia): Those requiring Euphrasia (eyebright) experience the reverse symptoms. The tears are acrid and the nasal discharge is bland and watery. Also known as mahuang, the generic name of this herb may be familiar since a synthetic version of it is primary alkaloid, ephedrine, can be found in many conventional remedies as pseudoephedrine.  This herb has been used to treat bronchial and inflammatory disorders in Chinese medicine for more than 5,000 years. In fact, ephedra is often used to treat asthma. Note: Ephedra can raise both systolic and diastolic blood pressure and can cause excitability in some individuals.

Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea): Also known as purple coneflower, this Native American herb is one of the best immune enhancing supplements you can take.  Echinacea has been the subject of more than 50 years worth of study and has clearly demonstrated an ability to increase the production of a number of T-cells and their distribution in the blood.

Garlic (Allium sativum): The antiviral properties of garlic have been well examined for many years. In Russia, the herb is known as “Russian penicillin” where it was once used to treat respiratory disorders in hospitals. Recent Japanese studies have found that aged garlic extract stimulates NK activity and a potent antimicrobial action against bacteria and yeasts.  Garlic owes its efficacy to allicin, a byproduct derived from the amino acid alliin reacting with the enzyme alliinase. The biosynthesis of these constituents however, can be unstable in their natural state. Raw garlic is certainly good for you and has several health benefits to offer otherwise, but the enzyme necessary to produce allicin is usually destroyed in the stomach before the conversion can take place. For this reason, enteric-coated tablets of dried or powdered garlic tablets is the best form of supplementation to take advantage of this herb’s immune-boosting qualities.  Note: Garlic, and other alliums can raise or lower blood sugar levels. Consult your health care practitioner if you are diabetic or hypoglycemic.
And a word about colds:
According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, the more social ties you have, the greater your resistance to upper respiratory illness. The 1997 study gave 276 healthy subjects aged 18 to 55 one of two rhinoviruses via nose drops. Those subjects with 6 or more varied social contacts had a significantly reduced susceptibility to colds, regardless of their age, sex or the type of virus to which they were exposed. So, the next time you feel a had cold heading your way, get a foothold on prevention and get together we people you admire.

Dosages:
Stinging nettle – 250 mg. freeze-dried extract every 2-4 hours or until symptoms subside
Ephedra: 12.5 – 25 mg. 3x day
Quercetin – 400 mg. 2x day between meals
Echinacea – 350 mg 3x day
Garlic – tablet equivalent of 10 cloves of garlic
Human Beings – As many as you can tolerate
***With this overload of information, don’t just scan through the note and ignore the power that it holds, If you don’t want to help YOU…then at least healp someone else!

Love&Light Beautiful People!

Kitchen: The Poor Woman’s Spa

22 Mar 2010 2 Comments

by thebuttaflymovement in Uncategorized

Compliments of http://consciouschicknyc.blogspot.com   … Good stuff!

Just like much of the country, I’m living life on a budget. I used to love going to spas for a quick massage, the salon to get my hair did and occasionally, I would travel to a retreat for a full weekend of wellness. Well, my budget now dictates that I go no further than my apartment for beauty treatments So, this weekend I indulged at Spa Conscious Chick.

First up was the pre-conditioning of my hair. Instead of looking for recipes, I created my own based on my knowledge of moisturizing properties. Avocado, Coconut Milk, Sesame Oi,l Apple Cider Vinegar, Egg Yolk~ Make sure the avocado is ripe and easily smoothed. I found out the hard, messy way with chunks of it all over my bathroom floor and sink. Saturate either dry or wet hair with the paste, cover with a shower cap, and cover that with a towel or site under a hair dryer for about 20 minutes. Shampoo hair as usual.

While the conditioner was doing it’s thing, I gave myself a facial which started with exfoliation. I used an Agave Nectar scrub from Beija-Flor Naturals and washed with one of their fabulous Organic Soap Bars.

 Next up, is the steam. Boil water Empty a tea bag (eucalyptus is perfect) Place a towel over your head and voila!- you got a spa treatment.

After about 10 mins or so rinse with cool water and apply mask. The mask of choice was another concoction of mine. 1/2 Cucumber(chopped) 1 Egg White 1 tablespoon Honey Blended (w/ a blender) together, this mask is so soothing and cool. I ended up putting a couple of slices of cucumber on my eyes while the mask dried to reduce the puffs. After washing off the mask with cool water, I used a toner made of tea tree oil and witch hazel and moisturized with Beija-Flor’s Acai Light Moisturizer.

 Now the nails. Grab a handful of dry oats, pour milk (any variation will due) into palm of oats and use to exfoliate and soften you hands. It would help to warm up the milk a little before using. Lastly, rub olive oil on nail cuticles to soften and nourish. Before bed, I brushed my teefahs with baking soda and hydrogen peroxide which whitens and removes plaque.

Finishing off with a swish of the peroxide as mouthwash completes the dental portion. Make sure you rinse once more with water to get rid of the foam. Last but not least, I created my own lip balm using raw shea butter, coconut oil, Vitamin E and a touch of glycerin and coconut essential oil for fragrance. It works great but it won’t stay solid at room temperature. I’m looking for some beeswax to complete the concoction. I felt relaxed and beautyfull… all for no more than $20!

All that you need is just a few cabinets away in your own house….no more excuses! Thou Shalt Pamper Thyself by any means necessary!

Ase’.

WATER~Become Your Own Healer!

22 Mar 2010 Leave a Comment

by thebuttaflymovement in Uncategorized

Hello Beautiful people!!! I wanted to share with you an article by a beautiful and wise healer. Her story, experience and expertise is empowering and I know you will love her movement!…so enjoy!

Don’t Treat Thirst with Medication!!

“When the body is well hydrated, all of the physiological and hormonal prerequisites to a satisfying sex life and more-than-adequate libido will be in place. In addition, one or two glasses of water before the “event” will help in achieving a firmer and sustained erection in men and the joys of participation in women.”
Peace be with YOU!

I have been a Holistic Health Practitioner for over 15 years. I am a healthy 43 year old woman. Most people are stunned by my age and ask me what my secret is. I tell them plenty of water and plenty of sleep. Of course it’s just words to them. But to me it’s my life, my body and my entire well being. I kid you not when I say that water has been my preventative medicine and a big part of my daily and sacred rituals. Simply put, I just can’t live without water. (And i am not selling anything so if you are wise you will read every word I have written – carefully.)

Throughout the years of my practice, I have seen, treated and coached 2 – 3 hundred clients. What I find common in every last one of them is their lack of sufficient water consumption and their belief that they are drinking plenty of water. Add their illusions and misunderstandings around the power and properties of water and you get a dried up prune trying to dance. Constipation, migraine headaches, low libido, tumors, arthritis, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, back and neck pain, asthma, allergies, cancer, obesity, depression – just to name a few – are all signs of dehydration in the body. Those imbalances and cries from the body have only been given names and titles that have now taken on a life of their own.

The mental thinking is drugs for pain; surrender to someone else to take care of the imbalance rather than an active participation and understanding of the way one’s body functions. (And when you get to understand that powerful temple you live in then you have mastered one of life’s greatest lessons and mysteries.) Everyone knows that water is good for the body. They seem not to know how essential it is to one’s well-being. They do not know what happens to the body if it does not receive its daily need of water.

The truth is dehydration is the underlying cause of diseases. The rest is the scientific and medical community stroking their egos with massive words and the titling of some imbalance in the body that they, in fact, do not quite understand themselves. “Medical professionals of today do not understand the vital roles of water in the human body. Medications are palliatives. They are not designed to cure the degenerative disease of the human body. Medicine doe not cure diseases. They only mask them.
The current practice of clinical medicine is based on the application of pharmacological chemistry to the human body. At the medical school, more than six hundred teaching hours are allocated to the use of pharmaceutical products. Only a few hours are allocated to instructions on diet and nutrition.

“We misinterpret thirst signals as pain, and treat them with drugs which silence instead of cure the problem. Because dehydration eventually causes loss of some functions, the various signals given by water distribution system regulators during severe and lasting dehydration have been translated as indicators of unknown disease conditions of the body. I discovered that histamine is a vital chemical messenger in the brain. Histamine has a most important function not written about in medical textbooks. It is in charge of water intake and drought management in the body. It is less active when the body is fully hydrated, and becomes increasingly active when the body becomes dehydrated. To hush the body’s call for water by masking the symptoms with drugs is like turning out the dashboard light that signal us that our car is about to overheat.”

“Every function inside the body is regulated by and depends on water. Water must be available to carry vital elements, oxygen, hormones, and chemical messages to all parts of the body. Without sufficient water to wet all parts equally, some more remote parts of the body will not receive the vital elements that water supplies. Without sufficient water to constantly wet all parts, your body’s drought-management system kicks into action. The histamine-directed chemical messenger systems are activated to arrange a new, low quota of water for the drought-stricken area. When histamine and its subordinate “drought managers” come across pain-sensing nerves, they cause pain. This is why dehydration produces pain as its first alarm signal. If the dehydration persists and is not corrected naturally with water, it becomes symptom-producing and, in time, develops into a disease condition.”

I am also a mother and I apply my natural health practices and beliefs in my role as a mother. I can not afford expensive medical bills and frankly do not fully trust a system and industrial complex that is based on capitalism and profits while gambling my health away. So I use the natural resources of the earth to restore balance and to remedy any issues that my family and I may have or encounter.

My son’s gum recently began swelling. I knew that his body was fighting an infection as a result. I paused and asked for guidance from the divine healer within. My son had not brushed properly and a piece of food had been stuck in his teeth that had caused the swelling and canker sores in his mouth. I knew that if I took him to the dentist they would put him on an antibiotic that would get rid of the harmful bacteria as well as the ones that his body needs. And I would walk out with a big bill. Empowering the Dentist while dis-empowering me and my pocket book.
So I did my research and chose the healing herbs and methods that I knew would work. My son even played an active role when he walked straight up to a homeopathic remedy, picked it up and said, “Here Mommy”. When I looked it up it was exactly what he needed to cure the canker sore in his mouth. I applauded and thanked him for listening to his inner healer. So I made him drink plenty of water. At least a huge cup full every other hour. (room temperature) I wanted him to go to the bathroom and clean out the toxic from the months before and from traveling to Brazil with his father, being away from me for a while. I also gave him Echinachea (tincture) to take care of the infection. And I had him rinse his mouth with hydrogen peroxide – making sure he doesn’t swallow it. This alone is so powerful in drawing out the toxic from any punctures or wounds in the body. The very next day the swelling began to diminish. And of course I got him back on track with brushing twice a day and flossing. This is only one of our natural remedy stories throughout our 10 years together. Ask any one who knows me and they will tell you that when i was told my son needed steroids I grabbed him and ran out of the hospital daring anyone to touch us. Believe me when I say that i am a Doctor’s worst nightmare because I challenge them and ask them questions that not only leave their heads spinning but also provokes them as well.

Please…. when I say that water is so so powerful I am not whispering it. I am screaming loud at the top of my lungs hoping all humans would hear me. And that it can prevent even the most horrific diseases that man still does not understand like..cancer, diabetes, etc. As well, the healing industry has taken on a fast pace life of its own with everyone telling you their way or the highway. Don’t be fooled. It is so simple! We only make it complicated. And all the therapies are worthless without the proper consumption of the purest and most readily available element and remedy- WATER!!. YES!! And I am not here to convince you at all. I am just here to share because if I don’t then it would only be selfish of me and I would not be in alignment with my true purpose.
I am a living testimony to curing myself of “fibroid tumors”,” infertility” and “Bells Palsy”. I only wish you greater wisdom and healthy choices in living and loving. And today I am giving you information to make that decision.

Of course, readiness plays a vital role and one must be ready and willing to make a change and put “love” in action”.

To begin… You must get the book!

Your Body’s Many Cries for Water

by Dr. F. Batmanghelidj, M.D

Visit his website at: http://watercure.com

Get his book today! I could not afford to send a copy to everyone I know so please accept this as a gift of life and love to you!!

BEFORE YOU BUY OR TAKE ANY MORE DRUGS OR GO RUNNING TO THE DOCTOR. CONNECT WITH YOUR INTERNAL HEALER!!! AND GET THIS BOOK TO SUPPORT YOU!!!

PLEASE READ HIS BOOK!! YOU MUST!!!

In the spirit of wellness,

Angelique Shofar
Holistic Health Practitioner
Sensual Living Artiste
soulfullliving@gmail.com

Live & Love Out Loud….

Mind, Body, Heart & Soul!

How to begin pursuing knowledge in Holistic Health…..

“African Wholistic Health”, Dr. Lliala O. Afrika
“Heal Thyself”, Queen Afua
“You Can Heal Your Life”, Louise Hay
“Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome”, Joy Leary
“The Seven Laws of Spiritual Success”, Deepak Chopra

Try these on for size. I have a library of books, however those will keep you busy for a while.

Don Muguel Ruiz….The Four Agreements

22 Mar 2010 Leave a Comment

by thebuttaflymovement in Uncategorized

So my list is in no particular order. But in the last decade I have discovered the writing of Don Miguel Ruiz. I found his work to be inspiring and in many ways life transforming. The Mastery of Love is probably the most honest book I have ever read. I recommend it to all. I am also a big fan of the Four Agreements.

1. Be Impeccable With Your Word.
2. Don’t Take Anything Personally.
3. Don’t Make Assumptions.
4. Always Do Your Best.

THIS VIDEO HAS SOME OF THE MAIN CONCEPTS OF HIS WORK WHICH ARE ROOTED IN THE TOLTEC TRADITION.