More Bitter Foods, Less Bitter Attitude

So, Let's Talk Bitters

I must be candid and speak of my utter passion for bitters!  I also must say that I was extremely surprised at the reaction of my dear friends (not that I doubted them for a second), as I witnessed their growing love for bitters, as well.  This is all good and well, but you may be asking yourself, "What the heck are bitters... and what's the big deal?"

BIG DEAL:

Have you ever been to a bar and someone offered you bitters and soda water to help relieve a stomach ache?  Or you may be familiar with Angostura bitters which are added (a few drops, mind you) to certain alcoholic drinks to add a certain depth to the flavor of a drink?  Before I learned about bitters, this was the only type of bitters I was familiar with... and I really had no interest in them at the time. 

When I started traveling and learning about the cultures and cuisines of different countries,  I started getting schooled about bitters and their medicinal properties.  One of the first things I noticed was that almost every country in Europe had some form of bitters, or digestives, that they used almost DAILY, whether it was in the form of an aperitif before the meal (used to stimulate hunger), a bitter vegetable or herb in the meal (like dandelion or turmeric) or a digestive drink at the end of the meal (to aid in the circulation and digestion of fats).  When I took my first bitters drink in France, I was told that I would never like it because I was American and we only liked sweet or salty things.  Although it was true that I made a face at the bitterness, I soon learned to love it and, even more, rely on it for its digestive aid.

I then took many courses on healing herbs and, once again, was introduced to the medicinal properties of bitters and told numerous stories of the wealth of healing that the bitters give us. 

I can remember one such story told to me that really made me a true believer.
"A lady and her husband moved to France one year to spend time abroad.  That year, they indulged in all the wonderful foods of France, like the creamy cheeses, the local wines, the pastries, as well as the incredible greens and salads that came from their local farm.  The lady had suffered from severe allergies most of her life  and noticed that her allergies completely disappeared the year she lived in France.  As soon as she moved back to San Diego, her symptoms returned.  So she started eating all the same foods that she ate in France thinking that the cause was the food change.  She even went as far as getting the same brands of cheese, breads, and wines that she ate there (she had that luxury living in California).  However, her symptoms continued.

One day, she remembered that there was one missing element that she hadn't thought of that might be the missing link.  So she went to Whole Foods and bought some Dandelion Greens to put in her salad.  She had remembered that she ate dandelion greens almost daily in her salads.  Dandelion greens are very bitter and are eaten often in many French salads (many of us are more familiar with the bitter ENDIVE).  To her greatest surprise and delight, it took only a week to see a big difference in her allergies.  She is happy to report that her allergies are gone, and she says it all had to do with bitter greens." 

That story prompted me to go on a couple of missions for some bitters.  Not only bitter greens--like Dandelion, Belgium Endive, Chicory Root, etc.--but I also wanted to try the bitter herbs--like Gentian Root, Goldenseal, Angelica, Aloe Vera, Rhubarb, Swedish Bitters and the many other bitter herbs that make up most bitter formulas.  I set out to make the "bitters drink" that I had tried one time in Southern France (which was comprised of 40 different herbs), and mixed it with ginger ale.  I made my own version, and I started to really enjoy it after meals. Not only did I feel less full after a large meal, but my digestion worked so much stronger.  I also could literally feel my stomach working, and circulation was improving as well.  Bitters start working as soon as they enter your mouth.   We call them a sialogogue, which means it increases saliva, thus, increasing digestion.  
One of my favorite tests to do in herb class was to eat a big meal, take a teaspoon of bitters (we generally used Gentian Root), and then notice how fast it would take me to feel hungry again.  Just as a side note: being hungry is a very good sign!  I find that we, as Americans, try to stave off hunger, but hunger is a sign of desire.  You will be hard pressed to find any Europeans that don't like to be hungry.  Hunger for real food is synonymous with a hunger for life.  You may be surprised to know that the more real food we eat, alongside bitters, the more our metabolism improves.  This is where the French Paradox comes in. 

"How can they eat the way they do and stay so thin?" 

There are many answers to this question. 
To sum it up--in my opinion:
1.) They are particular about the quality of their food.
2.) They eat only until they're full... so that they can eat again when another tasty treat comes around (80% full method).
3.) They supplement with BITTERS.


WHAT DO BITTERS DO?

Treat loss of appetite (great aid in Anorexia)
Liver and Gallbladder Tonic
Aid Digestive Problems
Stimulate Taste buds
Promote Saliva and Digestive Juices
Treat Flatulence
Aid Peristalsis (movement in the intestines)
Treat Constipation
Increase Circulation
Increase bile (breakdown of fat)
Assist Seasonal Allergies
Purify the blood
Promote Sleep or Make you Alert (depending on what you need)
Strengthen the nerves
Speed wound healing
Strengthen and calm the digestive tract
Aid in skin problems (especially acne and rosacea)
My favorite Metabolism booster!
The list can go on...


HERBS AND FOODS THAT ACT AS BITTERS:

Dandelion Greens
Endive
Chicory Root
Broccoli Rabe
Radicchio
Arugula
Frisee
Kale
Rhubarb
Gentian Root
Angelica Root
Aloe (can be a mild laxative, so use wisely)
Goldenseal (used as a natural antibiotic, as well)
Senna leaves
Coffee
Carline Thistle leaves
Saffron
Turmeric
Myrrh
Dandelion Root or Leaf Tea (The root is used for Liver, and the leaf for Kidneys)
Orange and Lemon Peel (please use Organic only)
Rosemary
Barks
Ginseng
These are just a few, but they are some that are readily available to you (so now you have no excuse not to try them! :)

I will say that some bitter formulas like Swedish Bitters and Angostura, as well as other herbs such as Gentian Root and Goldenseal usually come in a mixture of grain alcohol both to preserve and release the potency.  You may choose to get them without alcohol or just eat the bitter plants, but the alcohol increases the potency of the bitter qualities.  The key is to taste the bitter, so do your best not to drown out the bitter taste with other ingredients.

Please note bitters may be contraindicated in ulcers, alcoholic syndrome or pregnancy.  Check with a specialist or your Doctor if you have any questions.

So, go ahead and explore the world of BITTERS!  It may take a little while to adjust your taste buds, but when you do, you may be pleasantly surprised to see how much your body thanks you!

Here's to A Healthy Digestive Tract and a Happier Liver!

Start Fresh Every Day!

A New Day with No Past Mistakes

I remember when I used to watch the movie "Pollyanna"--one of my favorites-- as a child, and the phrase that always stuck with me was that "Each day was fresh with no mistakes!"

How easily we forget this. Each morning we pile on the "backpack" of our past days filled with our saddest memories and guilty moments. Everyday we carry this and think that we are being "responsible" in carrying OUR load. It's almost as if we carry more of a loyalty to those things we did poorly or those times where we fell short, rather than to those things and times that keep us healthy and strong!

Yes, it is true that we must learn from our past in order to keep from learning the same painful lesson over and over. However, how can we properly see or utilize these lessons if they reside in a bag bound with guilt,shame,and resentment? No wonder we keep them bagged up and on our back. Soon they become a mixed bag of emotions and we can't quite remember which memory they belong to. We just know we should feel "bad" for all those "past things" we've done. Is is more that we won't forgive what we've done, or does it affect us more that other's won't forget our past faults?


So, how do we get back to that child-like energy and thought process? How do we tap into that "Pollyanna" existence? One of my favorites things about this life is that we have choice AND we have change EVERYDAY! There isn't a moment that goes by that we can't choose a new existence...a new path, a new life. Maybe the one thing we should remember is how to think as a child. Whoever told you that it takes forever to rid yourself of your past, is mistaken. You can see easily in children that a painful moment is easily forgotten (and most times, for good!) If we awaken the dead of our past, then we choose to live with those skeletons in our present...and so half the day we feel dead, right along side them. Why not leave them where they are...and create a new thought process right now. A single thought that will affect the rest of our day and future. The thought is: "I start each day fresh with no mistakes!"

With time we will find that there are no skeletons to bury and no backpack of shame to carry. Each day is fresh, new, and completely detached from the mistakes of yesterday.
Let's make this life simple--not in a lazy way--but in a freeing, more loving way! Of course you could always continue wearing that bag and complaining of back pain, as you relish in the sometimes-loved-drama of your past! Again, you have the choice.

Perhaps with this new day--fresh with no heaviness from our past--we will feel free and light enough to make all the mistakes we want! But they shall only last a day, my friends, only a day!


*I recently watched a client die. As he was dying, I could see him smile as he retraced each year and memory of his life...as if he were replaying and reliving it. At the end (with his last breath) he smiled and said "Wow, I wish I knew it could be that easy."
I personally believe he was referring to "letting go" of those things that held him back.

It is a new day today! You are alive! Make it fresh with no past mistakes!

With Endless LOVE,
Christy~

The Power of Magnesium

The Power of Magnesium

Do you crave chocolate? Have you ever suffered from acute anxiety, nervousness, tight muscles/cramping, or even bouts of heart palpitations?  There may be a super (or macro) mineral that could be your next favorite hero!  This Super Mineral is called Magnesium!  
It's called a macro-mineral due to the fact that it is so prevalent in the body.  We all need minerals in a perfect ratio for the body to function properly, and magnesium ranks fourth in overall abundance in the human body.  In fact, it's easier to show a deficiency in a mineral than a vitamin; although, many of us only think vitamins when we want to improve our health.

It might be interesting to note that magnesium is the main mineral found in the "blood" or chlorophyll of plants.  Just as iron runs through our veins, magnesium runs through the veins of plants.  Hence, all dark green plants are rich in Magnesium!  We need these dark, leafy greens to assist our bodies in obtaining healthy levels of this wonderful mineral, magnesium. 

Here's one of my favorite facts: Cocoa contains 500 mg of magnesium per 100-gram  serving (unsweetened, unprocessed, plain cocoa powder).  Research has found that,  "Women especially crave chocolate during the second phase of their menstrual cycle (post ovulatory) which is known to be a time when they are especially low in magnesium; PMS is known to be characterized by irritability, feelings of anxiousness and tension...all of which are clinical signs of magnesium deficiency."  
Chocolate consumption for health purposes (and for the best magnesium source) is best via raw and low sugar/high cocoa content with a minimum of 65% cocoa.  Many times,  women crave both ice cream and chocolate during their cycle, sometimes denoting a deficiency in both minerals, calcium and magnesium. 

Magnesium is a relaxing mineral so it allows a feeling of "calm" and "relaxation."  Its action is to relax the muscles and has a great affinity to the heart muscles and intestines.  So much so that you will most certainly know if you have taken too much magnesium...evident in loose stools.  Magnesium is water soluble, and the body finds a natural way of ridding itself of excess quite efficiently, which makes magnesium wonderful for anyone suffering from constipation or cramping.

Signs of Magnesium deficiency include: Confusion, disorientation, loss of appetite, depression, muscle contractions and cramps, tingling, numbness, abnormal heart rhythms, coronary spasms, eye spasms, and seizures.

"Magnesium experts estimate that at least 50% of sudden heart attacks may be due to magnesium deficiency.  Intravenous magnesiumm given as soon as possible after a heart attack, may provide the best protection for the heart regarding degree of damage done."

Ever had a "Charlie-Horse"? Try some Magnesium!

Magnesium is found in the following foods in order of prominence:
Kelp, Wheat Bran, Wheat Germ, Chocolate/Cocoa, Cashews, Filberts, Peanuts, Almonds, Brazil Nuts, Pecans and Walnuts; Molasses, Brewer's Yeast, Buckwheat, Dulse, Millet, Wheat, Rye, Tofu, dried Coconut Meat, Brown Rice, dried Figs, Apricots, Dates, Collard Greens, Shrimp, Corn, Avocado, Cheddar Cheese, Parsley, dried Prunes, Sunflower Seeds, Barley, Dandelion Greens......

Please note it is very important that one's levels of calcium and magnesium be maintained in balance.  Magnesium can be taken alone, but calcium should always be taken in conjunction with magnesium.  Typically, the proper ratio to maintain this balance is two to one, calcium to magnesium; although, this can vary in certain health situations.  

21 Days Breaks A Habit

21 Days Breaks a Habit

"I find a surprising correlation between eating "junk" and complaining. The body's inner wisdom has such creative ways of expelling toxins."
~Christy Marsh~


We have enough research to show that 21 days makes or breaks a habit. New neuro-pathways are developed in the brain after 21 days, to create or break the habit we have set in motion.
Well, many of us love to start new diets, exercise more, cleanse our bodies, stop eating junk food, etc... However, I have recently found a new exercise that has helped me to start setting all of my new-desired habits in motion. It's called "The Complaint Free Diet."

Try not complaining for 21 days! Sound easy? Try it out.
To help you along the path, wear a bracelet on your right wrist (I personally love to wear my Wonder Woman silver bracelet as my reminder), and when you've complained that day...you move it to your left wrist. (Don't get down on yourself for complaining...just be aware of it and start new the next day.) The next day you can start fresh again, with the bracelet on the right (remember that you get to start the 21 days over if you complain about anything that day.)

I heard about this wonderful exercise at Unity Church in North Kansas City. The minister at that Unity--Will Bowen--introduced this to his church as an exercise, and the stories were absolutely life changing and incredible! If you are interested in more details, go to http://acomplaintfreeworld.org/


I have tried it numerous times, and I must be honest and say that it was more difficult for me than I imagined it would be. I think the first time I really tried it, I got through 3 whole days and that was it! It's hard to believe how much we complain about each day...and how many times we rationalize our complaints to be "okay." The real reason I loved this exercise was the way that it created a new habit with everything else I did. I didn't see it at first, but soon after I started to see that it was the catalyst for a lot of other change. I started to see a correlation between complaining and my laziness or inactivity. I noticed-of course-the connection between complaining and my negative thinking. I also noticed that when I complained, I also made poor excuses. However, the one that surprised me the most was the connection between complaining and what I chose to EAT! It seemed that the more I complained about this world, my life, etc....the more I chose poor quality foods. When I let go of complaining, I instinctively started choosing healthier foods, and wanted less junk in my body. Was this a coincidence? Could there be a link between cleansing the mind and cleansing the gut?

It just so happens that many Doctors are now discovering the link between the mind and the gut. Dr. Laura Thompson, a Hormone specialists here in Southern California states that the brain has secret "brain like" functions. A New York times article (January 23,1996)points out that 95% of the brain chemical, serotonin, is manufactured in the gut. Other brain chemicals like dopamine, GABA, histamine, and acetylcholine are also manufactured in the gut. Dr. Thompson states that "the gut plays a major role is happiness, as well as misery." "The GI Tract not only converts our food to fuel, but it is also a crucial chemical factory for our thoughts and emotions."

So, as I think well....I eat well! Try it out for a day, see how you feel after not complaining. If you're brave enough (and I highly recommend it) try not complaining for 21 days. Or in the words of Yoda, "Do or do not, there is no try."

To your greatest Health,

Christy~

The Ultimate Blood Cleanser

My Father lives in Valencia, Spain; and it has been over five years since I've seen him or the rest of his family. In the last few years of working with clients on serious health issues; I have found one curious thread that pushes me to further investigate my connection to my family.

The Thread: I have found the most fascinating connection between blood disorders (Blood pressure, Anemia, Leukemia, other Cancers, etc...) and the emotional distress that comes from being estranged to our blood relations.

Could our Blood Dis-orders be related to our Family Discords?

I find it uncanny how many clients with blood disorders tell stories of their estrangement to a Mother or their Father, or even separation from their own children. Most of my clients are taking many medications for their ailments or disorders. My usual protocol is to recommend an array of healing foods or herbs to alkalize the blood, and to bring the body back to homeostasis (alongside their Doctor's Recommendations.)

I started to see the emotional link when one client (on his own accord) decided to call up his estranged Mother and tell her that he loved her. I remember finding it refreshing that he never mentioned what she said in return. He just focused on the peace that was felt from saying those three throat-aching words. He told me that "being sick had put his ego to rest", and his vulnerable state had allowed him to feel what was truly poisoning his blood. I then started to see similar correlations in many of my other clients. So, it made me think; "there really could be a correlation here that is truly exciting and empowering"--IF we could only heal from it!

We Are Our Most Powerful Medicine, or Our Own Greatest Poison:

I started to look back at my life and think about the Blood "disconnections" that I might have--and not even know about. The one that kept sneaking up was my distance with my own Father. He lived in Spain; I lived here. I talked with him every few years but we really didn't have a relationship. I had no ill will towards him, if anything; I felt an apathy towards him (which can be almost worse than feeling contempt for him because it generally means that you are repressing something.)
However, I made very little attempts to really have him in my life. He had shown so little interest in my life... and it seemed that I could feel okay with that. However, when I really checked in with my feelings; I felt very sad that I knew so little about my own flesh and blood.
I promptly told my husband, Sage, that we should take a little journey to Europe to cleanse the blood! (I don't really need an excuse to go to Europe, but this certainly felt like a GREAT one!)

I know now that with any true healing comes great accountability. It will never be what I receive from him, because I may never receive anything from him. I won't be able to ever control his actions or his feelings; but I can and I do control my own. There is already an incredible resonance of peace from feeling and knowing this. The healing begins when you extend yourself. I don't have to see him to know that my blood is clearing and healing... but I CHOOSE to see him to relish the moments I didn't choose with him before. Also, if I can extend an ounce of health to him by reconnecting... than I have helped two people, and both of us can rejoice with cleaner blood!

Simple?
Do you let your family members "off the hook" from all their mistakes in order to help yourself heal? Or, is it more accurate to say that we are lifting OURSELVES "off the hook" that inevitably strangles us--and them--in the end? The only obstacle is your own pride, ego, and the satisfaction of watching others suffer for what "they've done to us."
Is it worth a lifetime of sticky blood?


I love you, Dad!

The Magic of Tithing

MAGICAL TITHING!

As the Holiday lights go up and the festive music starts playing... I can't help but drift into a  state of Holiday bliss.  It's almost impossible not to be swept up by the cheerful energy that surrounds you as you smell the sweet aroma of baked goods and see the colorful lights as everyone prepares for the festivities.

I can remember the giddiness and uncontrollable giggles that I felt as a child--without an ounce of patience--for Christmas Day which, ultimately, meant loads of gifts.  As I get older, I have started embracing that same giddiness by giving abundantly. That feeling of being a child and the heart-pounding excitement have returned even greater than before.  I  have decided to start a new tradition of prosperous giving.  It has forever changed my life! The best part: it takes almost no money... and it involves an adventure and true, childlike giddiness.  The act has yet to have a proper name put to it, but for the time being, I've been calling it, "Magical Tithing"!  Why? The rewards feel like magic!

HERE'S HOW YOU DO IT:

STEP 1: Look in your purse (or couch) for any extra dollars. This could be a single dollar or maybe even a five-dollar bill (we usually spend that much on coffee anyway, so why not?).  You may ask, "What constitutes an "extra dollar"?  Most of us don't feel we have these "extra dollars;" however, if you think about it, you usually have that extra dollar--or dollars--that are folded or scrunched into your wallet.  If you don't have any extra dollars in your purse, then be brave a get a couple of dollars out of your account.  It will be worth it!

Step 2: Write an affirmation on your dollar(s).  I usually write it in pencil, so that it can be seen but erased if need be.  The affirmation will need to be one that is heartfelt and has energy behind it.  Essentially, you will be blessing another with what you would wish for yourself. This works well since we're all extensions of each other.

Here are some examples:

"You attract large sums of money just for being you."

"Money flows to and from you freely."

"You are beautiful and prosperous."

"You are rich in so many ways."

"I believe in you."

Be creative, and use whatever inspires you!

Step 3: Place the dollar(s) in between your palms and send it (them) love.  The key here is to start to shift the way we see money.  Instead of working for money, we are allowing the money to work with and for us.  Adding loving energy and intention transmutes a small piece of green paper into something much greater.  We can start to free our fear and death grip around money, and instead, start to open our hearts and hands to giving and receiving it freely.  To me, the exercise truly put a spin on my own perspective of money.  It made me realize just how much I had been attached to it, or tried to control it.

It's simple, take a spare dollar and give it away to someone who may need to hear that affirmation.  Suddenly, that one dollar carries an energy with it... an energy of prosperity, versus fear. Poof, the magic!

Step 4: Stick tape on the back of the dollar/s.

Step 5: (My favorite part) Go to your nearest store or to a place that inspires you.   Stealthily, stick the dollar(s) on the back of whatever calls to you.  For instance, it can be placed on the back of a good book that you love.  You can place it on the back of your favorite cereal box.  Place it on the very item that you wish you could buy, or are asking for, for Christmas.  I even like to stick it in the produce isle on the back of my favorite fruits.   Mango's are always fun!  Whatever you do, HAVE FUN, and try to avoid anyone seeing you.  

Here's the important part: It's important not to look back after you place the dollars to see who discovered it.  The whole point is to give freely and stay unattached to the outcome. Give and receive freely!

Step 6: Walk away, and SMILE.  You are already receiving before you know if anyone got the dollars.  The excitement is in giving it.  You have already increased the quantum field of prosperity and abundant thinking by taking this action.

Step 7: See your life change prosperously!  Since I started doing this five years ago, I have yet to feel poor.  So many great rewards are felt and received from it.

*Note: There are other ways you can do this, of course, but I find this way works very well.  You can also choose to "pay it forward."  For example, while in line for coffee, choose to pay for the whole line of people behind you (remember to keep yourself anonymous).  Another one I like to do is pay for someone's parking ticket if you see it on their car.  Just take the parking ticket and send in the payment anonymously.  Other times, I give 10% of what I make each week--or month--to a PERSON that feeds me, whether emotionally or spiritually. This one is so fun and feels so great for both of you!

In a society where many of us grow up fearing money and what it represents, I think it's high time we change that way of thinking.  Let's start seeing money as empowering and overflowing.  We can have and be anything we want!  I grew up saying, "I don't need any money!"  That was the product of seeing what it could do to some people. The truth is, we DO NEED money... and I have truly enjoyed spreading love everywhere money flows. Try it, it might just change your life as well.

Since I started "Magically Tithing," I have felt a new awareness around money.  I feel it has a positive energy around it now.  It just keeps on flowing, and I give and receive it lovingly.

When you give this Holiday Season, are you also truly receiving?

To a Prosperous Year~

*This idea was inspired after reading, "Four Spiritual Laws of Prosperity" by: Edwene Gaines.  If you would like an incredible gift idea for yourself or others, this is one that will shift the way you view money and the world. 

Native American Sage Tea

With the season so heavily pointing to fall, and the weather suddenly shifting to cold... I find my body shifting and changing also.  This is when we should congratulate our bodies for working, rather than getting upset for "getting sick." As a great teacher of mine used to say whenever I felt "off", "lean into the feeling, and then find the medicine within you to cure it."  After all, we are our best medicine!

I woke up today with a slight tingling in my throat and when I swallowed it felt a bit sore.  So, I leaned straight into the "congratulations body!" a bit begrudgingly at first, but then I remembered that I have the power to change how I feel.

One of my favorite remedies for the mouth or throat is the herb, Sage.  I had some growing outside, and we had just brought it in from the cold to dry.  I took a handful of the drying sage, warmed up some water for tea, and placed a heaping teaspoon of raw honey in the mug I would use for the tea.  This instantly warmed my mouth and I sighed from just the feeling of the warmth going down my throat and eventually to my stomach.  I closed my eyes and truly thanked by body for showing me what to focus on for healing today.  Just like magic, the warm cup and the beautiful thoughts lifted my spirits and suddenly the sore throat was no longer crying out.  It would be gone fully in an hour. 

Try it for yourself!  It's a wonderful remedy I learned from a Native American teacher.  She used to use this for mouth and throat cancer also.

Ingredients:
A large handful of fresh culinary Sage (organic is best!)
Boiling water, enough for a cup or 3 of tea (the hot water alone can kill bacteria)
1tsp-1 Tbsp of Raw Honey (antibacterial)

Directions: Heat water on stove to boiling point.  Place handful of sage in a warm mug.  Pour boiling water over sage and then stir in the honey. 
Place a cover (like a lid or plate) over the mug to let the sage fully infuse into the water (about 3-5 minutes). No need to strain, but you may if you prefer.  Drink and allow the warmth to heal, as well as nurture your soul.

With Love and a Native American "Aho",

Christy~

Go on, use herbs.  It's fun! :)

Lighten Up

On the path of holistic discovery, there are many inspiring tools I have picked up, placed in my bag-o-tricks  and enjoyed trying on and practicing to enhance my life.  This particular exercise was passed on by a goddess pioneer named Carol Hansen Grey back in 1993.... 1993?!  When I learned it, I asked "Where has this been all my life"?  Well, it's here right now, and time is relative when it comes to great wisdom.  Use it joyfully, and please pass it on.  I firmly believe that when we receive wisdom that allows us to stretch, evolve and be even greater than we were, it is our duty to pass it on! :)

THIS ONE blows me away and works when practiced consistently (the magic to this is consistency).  If it feels uncomfortable or odd at first, then please stretch your mind, and know that it is only because many of us have been programmed to think poorly about our bodies.  Please stop what you are doing right now.   Take a deep breath, and surrender to a more positive way of thinking.  Just do it.  Your true self knows how good it feels, and I can say this has changed the way I feel about my body (inside and out) entirely!

Practice Makes Us See Perfectly:
First Step - Facing Yourself:  First thing in the morning or whenever the time is available, take off all of your  clothes (yes, all of them... no cheating allowed ;) and take a good look in the mirror.  You will obviously want this time to be with just yourself as to not have other distractions.  Next, go through every body part one by one, starting with your head and moving down to your feet (don't forget your backside), and tell each body part how beautiful it is and how grateful you are for what it does for you.  For example, "I love you arms, you are so beautiful and graceful and you help me do so many things throughout the day."  Say whatever resonates best for you; only you will know what your body does for you.  Remember you are affirming to your body what you want to love, so even if you don't love it right now, you are affirming that you do.  Affirmations are powerful and they become living energy when practiced with conviction and feeling.  So, breathe into what you are saying, and feel it with conviction.  Trust me, you will get there. We are all getting there together.

(You will only have to do this once, and it will take the longest amount of time... but, it is essential to the process).  Much like a computer, this exercise will reboot the way the mind thinks and appreciates the body.  New neuropathways in the brain will be created, and the magic of the process will begin.  Don't leave this step out!

Second Step (This literally takes 5 minutes a day):
Once, you've done the first step, you won't need to do it again unless you stop the practice and need to start over again.  I recommend you just stick with it. ;)

Take any lotion you use daily, and you will be using loving affirmations while you apply your lotion.  It's that simple, but must be done daily as your regular routine. Did you read the part where I said, "It must be done daily"??

Yep, it's that simple...just apply lotion.  For most of us, this is easy because we apply lotion a lot.  Just apply the lotion to each body part and say loving and affirming things like, "I love you, knees; you serve me so well in walking and running and doing all the things I love, like dancing."  You do not need to be staring into a mirror for this second step, just the affirmations and the lotion will suffice.  If you are in a hurry or do not like using lotion for this, you can use the liquid soap in the shower to do the same thing.  Please make sure you go to each body part and feel the conviction of what you are saying.  It's not enough to just rush through the process and not feel it.  I use my shampoo for my hair to do the same thing.  That's it!  Just do this 5 minutes a day as part of your regular routine.  I'm pretty sure this costs close to nothing and is priceless in its action!

In time, you will see a huge difference in how you see your body and you will also notice that your body morphs and changes to what is the most healthy for you.  If you need to lose weight, you will lose weight.  If you need to gain, you may gain.  It's set up to give you the healthiest results. This is IDEAL!  Carol Hansen Grey, the pioneer who started this, didn't change anything else and lost 20 pounds and also discovered her blood pressure and cholesterol lowered significantly.  She also noticed that she craved healthier foods and was drawn less to heavier foods and even coffee.  If you like coffee, this doesn't mean you have to give it up... remember this should be joyful and you will just effortlessly release what is no longer useful for you. Magic!

I noticed a change in my attitude about my body immediately.  I noticed that I didn't mind walking around naked anymore, and that I was proud of the body I chose.  Suddenly, I was appreciating other people's bodies also and recognizing how beautiful everyone looked around me. Interestingly, I observed they smiled back at me also.  Much like Carol, I was drawn to healthier food and found that I got great pleasure from eating and laughing with people over food.  Food took on a different color, and eating became a new adventure.  I was also more aware of what my body did for me.  I became so very grateful for each body part and almost overnight--well, more like a month, but who's counting?--my eyes saw a different body in front of the mirror.  I am happier, I have better posture, I am kinder; I have lost 7 pounds from just consistently doing this exercise... but to me, it was more about how I felt in my own skin!  YIPPEE!  I loved the girl staring back at me.  Nothing was impossible once I linked the light of my soul with the light of my body.  We are all light beings, and we deserve to see that in ourselves and in the mirror of each other.

Lighten up, my friends, and embrace your beauty!  You are worth it, and we all see it!

With Endless Love and Appreciation,
Christy~

(Don't waste another minute feeling heavy.)

I Am Lusting for Travel!

When I was 16, living in Spain, I left my shoes outside my grandparent's house and a group of traveling gypsy's decided they would take them on their adventures.  When I walked back inside the house to ask if anyone had seen my shoes, my grandfather calmly answered, "the gypsy's took them... better not leave your shoes outside."
I gasped for a good minute and then laughed at the idea that some gypsy was walking around in my shoes.  So, a gyspy I became myself that day as I deliciously imagined where my shoes were leading me.

I love all things travel. One of the things that entices my soul the most is diving into a new culture and widening my eyes to new things. I remember being called "daft" by my British classmates my eleventh year in highschool.  I am not "daft" I quickly retorted and scoffed at even the thought of being called such names.  Of course, I quickly ran home and looked up the definition of daft... and realized that I was indeed "ignorant" to many things.  We have so much to learn, and once we dance over own pride, we know this means great things to come.  My classmates did me a great favor that year and helped me stretch.
Ahhhhh!!! (That's me excitedly yelling). I am ready to dive in again pretty please! My gypsy shoes are on and I am perched on the edge of my own wanderlust.

So, this new idea is brewing within me these days like a tea pot that's about to explode from it's high pitched scream.  I am listening this time. The idea: I want to travel to countries where I get to learn traditional folk medicine from indigenous tribes and circles. All of the traditions, herbs, stories, circles, foods, teas, ceremonies are waiting patiently to be learned and passed on for our use.  I hear the natives and elders of such countries, like Guatemala, Belize, Ecuador, Peru, etc... are quite literally dying to pass on this medicinal information because their children and grandchildren may not wish to learn it and pass it on.  Wha-aaat?! 

YES and So Many PLEASE'S!
I am willing to travel and learn these things to pass on to future generations. I am not only willing to learn and use it, but also videotape it for future generations to use also.  Bring on the adventure and the juice of new ideas and breath of fresh wisdom! Sign me up for all of it.   Well, I think I will sign myself up for all of it because I am starting a new foundation with this very thought. 
"Full Circle Folk Medicine Foundation"!  A mouthfull?  Well, it certainly fills my heart.  Let's do this!  I am signing up to raise $22,000 for this foundation by January 22, 2013.  Be on the look out for the foundation and video on www.indiegogo.com

Maybe I'll even find the gyspy who graciously took my shoes and showed me a new world.

Keep on Lusting,

Christy~

I Still Love the Ride in Discovering Me!

Our only mission here on Earth, as I understand it, is to live an authentic life.  We learn things like love, compassion, and kindness in our first few years on Earth. This is learned in what I call,  Earth Kindergarten.  However,  as we ride the train farther down the road of living we learn through life lessons who we are meant to be fully.  Our truest character comes through knowing what we are, who we are, and what we must be as we put behind us what we are not.  What we are not can be fun lessons also, but let's get to good part.  Let's start living, please!

Hello self,  I just want you to be you!
Are you living an authentically "you" life?  Are you pleasing everyone else to avoid having to dissapoint them?  Are you avoiding your own happiness because you don't know who you are or what you want?  Do you believe you deserve to be authentically happy? Here's a secret: You can visualize and meditate until the cows come home, but you will not receive what you wish until you believe that you deserve it fully.  We attract to us exactly what we feel we are.  Do you believe you are worthy of your true self?

Start with these questions, to help discover who you are authentically:
1. What do I love to do?
2. What do I do that makes me feel the happiest?
3. If I didn't care what others thought, what would I say and do?
4. If I were dying, what would I say I wished I had done.
5. Do I say what I think others would want me to say, or do I speak from my heart?

Now, look at your answers and start living from the answers.  If you still don't have clear answers... start practicing living from your heart versus your ego or mind.  In other words, stop listening to everyone's opinion, and focus on your own passions and dreams. Soon, you will be asking yourself for answers rather than everyone else.  We are not living anyone else's life!

The Paradox:
Many of us are taught we are here to be martyr's and help everyone else before we help ourselves. That school of thought is over my dear friends!  I highly recommend that you put your own oxygen mask on before you assist your neighbor.  When we live an authentic life as our true selves, we give those around us permission to do the same... hence, true happiness all around.  Let's all toast with a glass of wine, please! Awe, big sigh...

What if your only mission here was to be truly yourself?  Go, Run... Be that... Be you! From this authentic place comes such divine happiness that you stoke the happiness of all those you encounter.  This fire within you attracts even more happiness, and suddenly the world is filled with authentically beautiful selves running around you.  Be you, that is all you are here to be.

(and please) Enjoy every second of the ride!

Christy~

Intention and Attention

It was a bright, Full Moon last night and the rituals and ceremonies of "ancient time" filled my head and heart.  We know that the moon affects many things on Earth, specifically the tide.  The human body is comprised of at least 60% water... so it only makes sense that the moon would affect our internal tide as well.  Many times our thoughts an emotions are riding the wave of this high tide.  I say ride it and celebrate!

The New Moon is traditionally for making wishes and setting your attention for the intentions you would like for the month.  Think of it this way, the moon has waned enough to a dark moon, and therefore is has room to build and increase in light and energy.  So we make our wishes when there is room for that energy to increase.  The Full Moon is when the light is bright, and this reflects the energy increase also within us,  and so we celebrate what we have intended for our life--back on the New Moon.  So, last night I celebrated all the beautiful things I intended for this month. It is truly mind blowing to see the workings of all the wishes and thoughts I manifest appear before my eyes.
Pay attention to what you intend! :)

This is important: "Where the mind goes, energy follows" 
Where are you putting your attention these days?  Everything is led by mind, based on mind, fashioned by mind.   First come the thoughts and then the action follows.  It is almost impossible to have a different action from what our thoughts really believe.  So! What are you thinking and intending for your life?
Do you believe good thoughts some of the time or most of the time?  Is positive thinking a good thing only in theory??  If this is the case... stop what you are doing right now, and notice your pattern of thought so that you can wake up out of them.  The key to transforming your life is by noticing your habitual pattern of thinking and changing them.  Do not become a slave to these old patterns!  You can create newones in a minute and a half!

Jill Bolte Taylor, the scientist and author who wrote "Stroke of Insight" tells us that when emotion arises, it takes about a minute and a half, after that you need thoughts to keep the emotion going.  This means that we make up thoughts to keep the emotions stuck within us to satisfy our ego and keep us distant from others.   A minute and a half only?!!  What the heck are we doing holding grudges and creating stuck thought patterns based on a emotion that only needs to be truly felt for a minute and a half?  I believe the magic comes after that minute and a half, when we choose to think differenly and create new neuro-pathways in our mind.  " Neurons that fire together, wire together."

Step out of the stories that keep you stuck in your old patterns of thinking, and instead choose to love the truth of clear and open hearted intentions.  You will feel more at home within yourelf.  Would you rather be right or feel happy?  Your attention will then lead to loving intentions that you intend on the New Moon and celebrate happily on the Full Moon.

We all need reasons to celebrate!  I celebrate daily, but the Full Moon gives me a time to see in action what I have intended with my thoughts and heart. 

"We don't see things as they are. We see things as we are."
~Anais Nin~

In Joy Today!

Christy~

Are you celebrating? Are you dancing?

Like Attracts Like

It is Fall and I am inspired!  As the tree leaves turn colors and fall to the Earth, the colorful inspiration in my heart rises and I look for ways to express what I feel.  It is said that "like energy attracts like energy", so if I were to practice this feeling then how would my day look?

In other words, what would I send out to the world that I could feel as I was sending it?  This begs the question "do we even need to wait for a return from what we send out?" 
In my opinion, the answer is firmly "no."  The return is felt in and through the giving.
However, we can recognize the universal law that honors energetic cycles... which is to say, "that which you send out ALWAYS returns to you." (Every time!)

Just as Earth expects and calls on the falling leaves to continue a cycle, our hearts call to us the energy we send out. 

So, to rejoice today... I am sitting with a warm cup of tea and looking at a recipe that a dear friend sent me this morning to simply warm my heart. (And warming it is).
The recipe: "Cashew Chai Tea"
http://nourishingourradiance.com/2012/10/cultivating-warmth-golden-cashew-chai/#.UIhHCau9FEs.facebook
(Thank you dear, Julie)*

I drove to the store promptly after receiving the recipe for this chai to try out the new flavors. I have learned in life not to wait for healing pleasure. My motto is: "Create it or make it now!!"  Luckily I was only in need of some spices, and I also wanted to try it out with coconut milk. ;)  Always keep your options open.

Around the corner from the store I spotted a car that had a parking ticket on the dashboard.  My face scrunched in that way it does when I can empathize with a situation. "Grrr" (as my grandmother often says) is most likely how the owner of that car will feel when they see the ticket.
So, instead of driving past... I decided it would be a fun adventure to stick the $50 bill I had just received from a session in the envelope that held the parking ticket.  On the bill I wrote, "Blessed with Luck!"

Later, I danced through the isles of the store getting my ingredients that would further warm my heart.  I sat in the awareness that I felt happy in my soul... not in the future of the chai tea or the past of paying someone's parking ticket.  But, in the present bliss of knowing love is exponentially growing all around us just by doing things that make us happy.  I do not know how that $50 returns to me, nor do I count on it or care.  I do however, know that the love I felt from sharing it filled my heart more than any bank account or $50 would.  I am richer from feeling this, and I am whole and inspired by living it.
Perhaps tomorrow I will just give of my services, but today this felt abundantly healing.

Go inward to your warmth, and reach out with what inspires you.
Here, you will find your best medicine.

With Love and Warm Chai,

~Christy~

Go ahead, warm your day further.  You have permission.