A Place of Healing

Resolution vs Intention

2011-01-07T11:21:00.000-05:00

I used to create resolutions at the beginning of the year, but never really seemed to stick with it for a few reasons. Either it was too bold and not easily attainable or I simply didn't have behind me the true wanting to accomplish what I set out simply because creating a New Year's resolution is what you're supposed to do.

I prefer to set intentions. Maybe the same thing to some, but to me intention has a different feel to it. My intention this year is To live in faith and trust. And my theme is Success. For me this means no matter what comes my way I know it will be for my highest good and will bring me forward in my growth in all areas of my life - physical, spiritual, emotional.

If your resolution is to lose weight, quit smoking, have less stress, exercise, get a better job, get out of debt, improve relationships, etc. Will you consider creating a theme and intention to live by and take some pressure off yourself? What about a theme of health and intention to respect and love your body exactly the way it is now? Or a theme of love and intention to live with an open heart? Or a theme of joy and intention to live this year in happiness?

Imagine what you could call into your life without boundaries of resolving to fix something.

What theme calls to you? What intention feels right for what you want to feel in your life?

Wishing you much love, health, happiness, joy, abundance, passion, liberation, and more beyond what you have ever wished and wanted for in your life!

More Love for Cilantro!

2010-12-03T14:44:00.000-05:00

Free radicals are everywhere - in the water we drink, food we eat, and in the air we breathe. The main defense to free radicals (coming from pollution, x-rays, radiation, chemicals, heavy metals) are antioxidants. Cilantro leaves are rich in calcium, iron, carotenes, and vitamin C, which it happens are great antioxidants. A Japanese investigator, Yoshiaki Omura, has made the revolutionary discovery that cilantro can mobilize mercury and other toxic metals from the central nervous system if large enough amounts are consumed daily. Reuters reports that cilantro contains a chemical which has been found to kill the Salmonella bacteria that cause foodborne illness.

The heavy metal detox capabilities of cilantro should also make it of great use in the treatment of depression, Alzheimer's disease, lack of concentration and other related disorders. In other words, this herb can apparently help to keep you happy, focused, and sane!

See below for one of my favorite smoothie recipes.

Smoooothies! Gotta love cilantro

2010-12-03T14:41:00.000-05:00

My girlfriend bought herself an early Christmas gift - a Vitamix! It's an amazingly powerful blender and fantastic for quickly blending up greens into a smoothie. I'll be sharing with her some of my favorite recipes; I've shared this with other friends and they love it too! I got it from Sarma - the owner of Pure Food and Wine in NYC (awesome raw food restaurant). Leave a message if you try it.

Sarma's Cilantro Shake:

Pink Grapefruit
Cucumber
Cilantro
Lime
Pineapple
Agave Nectar or stevia
Vanilla Extract
BIG pinch of Cinnamon
Pinch of salt

Directions
In a blender, (Vitamix if you have one) throw a pink peeled grapefruit, peeled cucumber, lots and lots and lots of cilantro - like half a bunch, a lime, some pineapple, agave nectar or stevia, vanilla extract, BIG pinch of cinnamon, and pinch of salt. Blend well and enjoy! I top mine off with a shake of cinnamon on top too.

Inspiration

2010-10-08T13:56:00.000-04:00

Inspiration comes in many forms and always there to notice when you're open to it. Have you ever realized that once you decide to make a change in your life the Universe provides you with exactly what you need? Once you decide to change something in your life that is no longer working for you, the Universe lovingly assists you in making that change? Its really cool stuff what intention can do AND realizing how much the Universe loves and supports you.

I am often inspired by my friends and clients. I know each of us come together and cross paths for mutual benefit. I was truly inspired by my recent graduate client and today I'm deeply touched by the kind words she sent to me. With her permission I share them with you:

"Well, as I sit here eating my homemade caponata made with love from CSA veggies and drinking my coconut water diligently I can solidly say that NONE of it would have been possible without your gentle but insistent "nudging" to become creatively proactive about my health, body and LIFE! What I learned is so much more than just eating right and losing weight... it is about getting control of my life. I learned to find the things that really fulFILL me and to take it ONE day at a time!! So thanks for your amazing teachings, perspective and patience!"

Yay! I'm so proud of her!!! In a very short time working together she came a long way and has tools she can use for the rest of her life!

Holistic Health Counseling encompasses ALL of your life. In my work I do look at what you eat, but also at what FEEDS you. My mission is to inspire and empower my clients to create a life they love. And to be inspired back from them is the icing on the cake. ;)

Yup, its all good to eat cake too!

Relationship Mirrors

2010-10-06T19:40:00.000-04:00

This thought came to mind last night and I wanted to share it in hopes of enlightening you or sharing more about how I think, operate, and coach.

Relationships are the largest, most intense vehicle to our personal growth. For instance, romantic relationships come together because each of you is giving off an energetic vibration that matches each other. What the other person has, you also have. In the beginning each of you is seeing the best in one another. You can not recognize in another what you don't have in yourself. The lovely aspects you're attracted to in the other person is also the lovely aspect you have in yourself. Embrace that.

Additionally, as relationships grow, mature, and you get to know one another you begin to recognize in others characteristics and behaviors you may not consider so lovely. I encourage you to embrace that as well because YOU have those characteristics and behaviors too. You recognize them because you're familiar with them. Embrace them as well. As you embrace them you also embrace what you dislike in yourself. Embracing it = self love and self acceptance.

Debbie Ford describes these characteristics within us as beach balls. What we don't like we try to hold back, hide. And like a beach ball you're trying to hold down under water, eventually it pops out - you can no longer hide it.

We're all individuals coming here together to help each other learn about love, to grow, expand, and heal. There is no part of us that is "good" or "bad". As we evolve each of us is carrying around behaviors that we've used to protect ourselves, protect our hearts.

If you're in relationship now or in the next one and things are uncomfortable, don't run away. You WILL meet a similar type of person again until you've learned to love that aspect of you. Anything the other person does to trigger or upset you is simply something for you to look at within yourself. Do it with love and acceptance. As you give out more love and acceptance, more love and acceptance comes your way.

Dinner for Two

2010-10-06T16:57:00.000-04:00

I just love when cooking a meal all the pots and pans work perfectly together. Meaning, I could doubly use the bowls, strainers, pans for multiple things versus ending up at the end of a meal with a sink full of dishes. It was either coincidence last night or a well thought out meal.

I was gifted a few butternut squash from my good friends organic garden. It was the perfect excuse to make one of my favorite Fall side dishes - Butternut Squash Risotto. Its Gluten Free too!

Not sure what else to serve I asked my Facebook family for suggestions. I came up with Creamy Kale Salad (gotta have greens) and a lovely garlic encrusted, wild caught Halibut. Lots of healthy fats, proteins, and vitamins. And of course the secret ingredient - Love.

Here is the Butternut Squash Risotto recipe. For a new spin on stuffing or mashed potatoes, Butternut Squash Risotto makes for a wonderful gluten-free replacement.

It is oh so yummy!
If you have a hard time finding goat or sheep parmesan cheese, you can omit it and add diced 1/4 cup chantrelle mushrooms to add savory flavor.

Ingredients

6-8 cups gluten-free chicken broth (Chicken or Turkey broth work well) - If you make your own it is even more rich!
3 Tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cups butternut squash, peeled, and finely diced
2 cups arborio rice
1 cup dry white wine (such as Sauvignon Blanc) - you can skip this part
1/2 cup freshly grated Goat/Sheep Parmesan cheese (Cow Parmesan can be used if no dairy allergy) - this can often be found at Whole Foods or Central Market
6 Tbsp hemp or flax oil
Salt

Method
Heat oven to 400 degrees.

Heat broth in medium sized saucepan and keep warm over low heat. Heat 3 Tbsp of olive oil in a large saucepan; add onion. Cook over medium heat until onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Cover butternut squash cut into bite-size cubes with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and place in oven for 35 minutes.

Add rice to onion. Cook 1 to 2 minutes. Add wine. Cook, stirring constantly until wine has been absorbed by the rice or evaporated. Add a few ladles of hot broth, just enough to barely cover rice. Cook over medium heat until broth has been absorbed. Continue cooking and stirring rice, adding a little bit of broth at a time, cooking and stirring until it is absorbed, until the rice is tender, but still firm to the bite, about 15 to 20 minutes.

During the last minutes of cooking, add tablespoon of hemp or flax oil, 1/3 cup Parmesan (goat or vegan). At this point the rice should have a creamy consistency. Add salt to taste. Serve with remaining grated Parmesan.

Serve with the remainder of the white wine and enjoy!

Raw Chocolate Balls

2010-09-13T14:08:00.001-04:00

Indulge your chocolate fantasies with guilt free raw cacao!

In its raw, unadulterated state, chocolate is actually a valuable potent super-food loaded with nutrients and neuro-peptides very similar to the ones our bodies create when we are in love!

RAW CACAO POWDER contains many rare key nutrients that enhance physical and mental well-being. RAW CACAO POWDER also contain more ANTIOXIDANT flavanoids than any other food tested including Red Wine, Green Tea and Blueberries.

Other essential minerals present in Cacao are Calcium, Zinc, Iron, Copper, Sulfur, and Potassium. Cacao also contains many chemicals that enhance physical and mental well-being, including alkaloids, proteins, magnesium, beta-carotene, leucine, linoleic acid, lipase, lysine, and some neurotransmitters such as dopamine and anandamine.

Satisfy your chocolate craving and do your mind, body and spirit a favor in the meantime!

Ingredients:
 1/2 cup Raw Cacao Powder
 1/2 cup Coconut oil (I also use some coconut butter too)
 Raw Cacao Nibs
 1 teaspoon Maca Powder (optional)
 Organic Goji Berries
 1/2 teaspoon Cordyceps (Its a mushroom - optional)
 Organic Shredded Coconut
 Sunflower or Hemp Seeds or Walnuts (any nut/seed is optional)
 1/4 cup Agave Nectar

Preparation:
Mix coconut oil, agave, and raw cacao powder together.
Stir in remaining ingredients
Form bite size balls and roll into shredded coconut or seeds
Place in refridgerator until solid

Have fun with this! Mix in what you like! Eat your superfoods in a fun, delicious way!

Flour-less Brownies!

2010-09-10T16:32:00.000-04:00

A delicious dessert for my gluten free friends! You don't need to be gluten free to enjoy these either.

I made these for a get together last night - they had no idea the secret ingredient was Black Beans! Of course I told them. Try them out and leave a comment about what you thought of them.

Ingredients

1 (15 ounce) can no salt added black beans, drained and rinsed
3 large eggs
1/3 cup melted butter, more for baking dish
1/4 cup cocoa powder
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 teaspoons gluten free vanilla extract
1/2 cup cane sugar
1/2 cup gluten free semi sweet chocolate chips (I leave some aside to put on top)
1/3 cup finely chopped walnuts (totally optional)

Method

* Preheat oven to 350 degrees F

* Butter 8 inch baking pan (I prefer glass).
* Place black beans, eggs, melted butter, cocoa powder, salt, vanilla, and sugar in the bowl of a food processor and blend until smooth.
* Remove blade and carefully stir in chocolate chips and walnuts. This is where I put the few extra chocolate chips on the top (so you get some in every bite :)
* Transfer mixture to the buttered pan.
* Bake brownies for 30 to 35 minutes, or until just set in the center.
Cool before cutting into squares.

The last 2 batches I used a combination of chocolate and peanut butter chips. MMMMM.... Just made another batch for tonight's gathering.

Enjoy!

Magical Maca

2010-09-09T11:15:00.000-04:00

A facebook friend recently posted her excitement about discovering Maca. It IS exciting!! She was mostly excited about the hormone balancing effects, but there is so much more to Maca.

It is considered a Superfood. It grows at the highest elevation on earth and can stand extreme daily temperature fluctuations - sunset at 64 degrees down to 14 degrees (freezing conditions). Imagine what eating that kind of food, with that kind of stamina can do for your body!

According to studies, Maca can increase energy, endurance, oxygen in the blood, physical strength, neurotransmitter production, and libido (yeah, natural viagra!). Its magicallness supports the endocrine system, the adrenals, and the thyroid. It typically improves mood, and helps support healthy hormone production.

Maca is member of the cruciferous family. Huh?? It's in the broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, turnip, and radish family. It is found in capsule form, but I highly recommend getting it in organic powder form. You can easily add it to smoothies, tea, coffee - any beverage really. It has a light nutty flavor.

Maca is rich in Vitamins B1, B2, C, and E. It is rich in calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, sulfur, sodium, and iron. It contains trace minerals including zinc, iodine, copper, selenium, bismuth, manganese, tin, and silicon.

No wonder they call it the Superfood! When our bodies are getting the dense nutrients like this our bodies can naturally heal, perform efficiently, and feel satisfied.

There is more... Its slightly more than 10% protein, 8.5% fiber, and approximately 59% carbohydrates (our bodies need good carbs). Dried maca powder contains 20 amino acids and seven essential amino acids ("essential" meaning it can't be synthesized, but our bodies need it). Although it is not a complete protein, it is a great source of hormone precursors and amino acids that it provides many of the same effects created by a high-protein diet.

Enough with the details... I'm so NOT a detail oriented person, but this is good info to know!

Here are some of the conditions Maca is known to improve:
Anemia
Chronic Fatigue,
Depression,
Infertility and sterility in humans and livestock
Lack of libido
Malnutrition
Menopausal symptoms
Menstrual discomfort and disorders
Poor memory
Stomach cancer
Stress tension
Tuberculosis

With anything new try it for a month or so to see the effects. I did my own experiment for a straight month and noticed a big difference in my hormone balance (skin, pms). I put it in every smoothie I make.

I truly believe our bodies have the ability to heal when given the best ingredients to do so. So, if you're suffering with any adrenal, endocrine, hormonal, thyroid, infertility condition (or what I listed above) - give maca a try for a month or so. I love to see people come off medications and heal from natural resources.

Have a Maca-licious Day!!

My love for smoothies

2010-07-13T12:11:00.001-04:00

Summer is here and fresh veggies and fruit are abundant. I love making smoothies because they are quick, delicious, easy clean up, and easy for my body to absorb/digest!

In the last couple of weeks I've been replacing at least 1 meal with a smoothie. The below recipe is one of my favorites right now. Try it! It has cleansing properties, great help for digestion, and it's really tasty.

The original recipe is from Sarma, but I've added a few delicious things my body and taste buds enjoy.

Cilantro Shake:

• Pink Grapefruit
• Cucumber
• Cilantro
• Lime
• Pineapple
• Agave Nectar or stevia
• Vanilla Extract
• BIG pinch of Cinnamon
• Pinch of salt

I also add in a shot of Mmun (for my immune system) and a couple of spoonfuls of vegan protein powder.

Directions:
In a blender, (Vitamix if you have one) throw a pink peeled grapefruit, peeled cucumber, lots and lots and lots of cilantro - like half a bunch, a lime, some pineapple, agave nectar or stevia, vanilla extract, BIG pinch of cinnamon, and pinch of salt.

More Love for Cilantro!

Free radicals are everywhere - in the water we drink, food we eat, and in the air we breathe. The main defense to free radicals (coming from pollution, x-rays, radiation, chemicals, heavy metals) are antioxidants. Cilantro leaves are rich in calcium, iron, carotenes, and vitamin C, which it happens are great antioxidants. A Japanese investigator, Yoshiaki Omura, has made the revolutionary discovery that cilantro can mobilize mercury and other toxic metals from the central nervous system if large enough amounts are consumed daily. Reuters reports that cilantro contains a chemical which has been found to kill the Salmonella bacteria that cause foodborne illness.

The heavy metal detox capabilities of cilantro should also make it of great use in the treatment of depression, Alzheimer's disease, lack of concentration and other related disorders. In other words, this herb can apparently help to keep you happy, focused, and sane!

I'd love to hear what you think or what your favorite smoothie is.

Cheers!

Dairy free deliciousness

2010-06-15T09:29:00.001-04:00

Summer is here and who doesn't love the refreshing deliciousness of ice cream? In my course of experimenting what works for my body and what doesn't, I found dairy isn't the best thing for me. Although I eat it in moderation (did someone say pizza???) I have found really great alternatives to traditional dairy foods.

Here is a recipe I've shared and enjoyed with my nieces. It is fun to make and refreshingly light in my belly. You can buy or freeze your own fresh fruit (banana, strawberry). I also added in really good quality dark chocolate chunks too. Experiment with frozen fruits you like and let me know what you come up with. Enjoy!

Mango Blueberry Sorbet

Prep time: 5 minutes
Serves: 6

1 bag frozen mango

1 bag frozen cherries

1 tablespoon agave nectar

¼ cup apple juice (I use MonaVie Mmun)

Put all ingredients into a blender or vita mix

Blend until creamy, about one minute.
You may have to scrape the sides of the machine down a few times if using a regular blender

Serve immediately
Put the rest in the freezer to enjoy later.
When serving later on, take out a bit before serving.

My passion for MonaVie

2010-06-09T11:01:00.002-04:00

People typically ask me how I got involved with MonaVie, but why I'm still with MonaVie 3 years after my introduction is where I feel the significance is.

In Dave Lettermen style, I'll count down the top 10 reasons why I LOVE MonaVie.

10. They inspire and encourage personal growth. It is a relationship business. As you improve your relationship with yourself, you improve your relationship with others. As you grow, you help others grow. They suggest reading material from leaders like Napoleon Hill, Robert Kiyosaki, Zig Ziglar. At conventions they have speakers like Dr Myles Munroe, Rex Crain, Keith Cameron Smith

9. MonaVie is always ahead of the market - knowing what the Baby Boomers and consumers want and need.
     ~ Active blend has the only GRAS (generally recognized as safe) glucosamine available. It is US produced from a vegetarian source. Did you know most glucosamine tablets are made from shellfish (which most people have allergies to and why MonaVie found a vegetarian source)?
     ~ Pulse blend was created with your heart in mind. Formulated with 19 fruits, including the acai berry, the heart healthy blend delivers powerful antioxidants to nutritionally support your cardiovascular system. (my friends cholesterol lowered over 30 points in just 3 months!)
     ~ Mmun MonaVie (M)mūn™ is a beneficial blend of 19 fruits and Wellmune®—clinically shown to promote proper immune function. Formulated with antioxidant rich MVāo2™ a proprietary complex featuring the superfruits açai and maqui, this delicious juice helps protect your body year round. Everyone needs this product for their immune system!
     ~ EMV - Health energy drink! No jitters. No crash. Long lasting, sustainable energy. Just pure, natural energy. Free of synthetic stimulants. I drink this before a workout with a shot of Pulse and a shot to Active.
     ~ EMV lite - a reduced calorie alternative to the original EMV. Tastes great with a shot of Mmun in it!

~ Kosher - MonaVie is an International company and are looking into various cultural and religious certifications.

8. It is convenient!!
     ~ I drink a minimum of 2 ounces in the morning and 2 ounces at night which keeps the antioxidant level in my body even all day.
     ~ Liquid form helps my body easily assimilate the nutrients (versus taking supplements my body needs to break down - and if digestion isn't working properly all of that is lost anyway)
     ~ They have gel packs I take with me when I travel

7. Every day I get the antioxidant equivalent to 13 fruits and vegetables in just 4 ounces a day!
     ~ MonaVie has 100's of nutritional compounds that you don't get in your daily diet.
     ~ We all know we need our fruits and veggies, but with the pesticides and forced ripening are we really getting the nutritional value we think? I doubt it.

6.  I am getting the best acai available.
     ~ The Acai Berry is processed within 48 hours of picking - 2 processing plants right in Brazil to maintain 99% of its nutritional value. It is a very delicate berry and if not processed correctly, the amazingness of the berry is lost.
     ~ They spare no expense when it comes to research and development. Scientists put the blends together. $250 million was spent on their newest blend Mmun
     ~ MonaVie has high standards for all their beverage blends. The Acai is in every blend - each blend having 19 different berries in it. Drink all 3 at once and you have about 90 different berries floating around in your body!

5. MonaVie is a successful company that grows every year
     ~MonaVie came in #18 over all in Inc. 500's 2009 magazine! It is only a 5 year old company!
     ~ It took Microsoft 8 years to come in at #80 (wouldn't you have like to have a piece of Microsoft back then?)
     ~ They are #1 in Food and Beverage
     ~ They are #3 in Revenue!

4. The best leaders are helping me succeed!
     ~ The CEO Dallin Larson was named Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year.
     ~ They call him the distributor CEO - he is always looking out for the distributors by creating amazing pay plans, creating bonuses and incentives and encouraging us to put God first, Family second, MonaVie third.

3. I get paid great money to share the health benefits of the product and to identify leaders who want crazy money to do the same - create a residual income for themselves where they can Will it down to their children. Creating a future for myself and a future for my family.
     ~ This is the only company I've worked for that pays me more the better and more I help others succeed. You're in business for yourself, but not by yourself.

2. It helped my mom's health
     ~ She sleeps better (used to be up every couple of hours)
     ~ Her knee and back pain have dissipated (she takes MonaVie Active with liquid glucosamine)
     ~ Her moods are better (I hope she isn't reading this ;)

1. It helped my health.
     ~ I no longer take meds or suffer from allergies
     ~ My hypoglycemia went away
     ~ Chronic aches and pains disappeared
     ~ My skin cleared up and looks younger every day
     ~ I've rarely been sick
     ~ My energy is high and my sleep is great!
     ~ My nails and hair are healthy and growing like crazy

Paul Zane Pilzer is a world renowned economist and says the next generation of millionaires will be in the Wellness and Network Marketing industries. MonaVie is both!

Are you read you ready to create a fortune for yourself instead of working at a J.O.B for someone elses fortune?

Contact me today with your questions. No obligation what so ever! This opportunity isn't for everyone. I'm looking for leaders who have ambition, motivation and want to help others succeed.

Are you being exposed?

2010-06-07T10:26:00.001-04:00

To chemicals and toxins?

Last night I caught part 2 of a special Dr. Sanjay Gupta did on CNN - "Toxic Childhood". It was about how babies are being exposed to toxic chemicals before they are even born! Harmful chemicals are found in the air, home, and common household cleaners. 80,000 chemicals and only 200 are tested - scary! The health of our children is changing and Richard Denison says that child cancers are rising.

Chemicals are in everything we use - soap, shampoo, makeup, the numerous household cleaners we use, fertilizers, bug sprays, pesticides... No wonder the disease rate is rising. There are better choices and options available to us.

After the show couldn't believe what I did (but it did prompt me to write to about what I know). I really needed to unwind and get to sleep so I sprayed a couple of shots of this lavender spray aromatherapy (I found while cleaning this weekend) onto my pillow. The worst thing I could have done!! This aromatherapy spray went right through my body - I felt it in my nose and I was soon tasting it! Only 2 squirts - on my pillow and it was in my body!! I was not that close when I sprayed and I was tasting it!!! It blows my mind!

I'm obviously sensitive because I've used that spray in the past. I think its because I've been trying to clear / detox my home and my body and lessen the exposure I have to toxic chemicals that I was so sensitive to the spray. I threw it out and will be sticking to my Happy Spray for my aromatherapy.

Concerned about toxic chemicals you and your family are exposed to? Here are a few simple things you can easily start doing to clear your home.

Take your shoes off when you enter your home to keep from tracking in chemicals, garden pesticides, lawn fertilizers and herbicides. Especially if you have children who play on the floor or like me do yoga and stretch on the floor.
Use a carbon filter pitcher to remove lead, chlorine and bacteria from your water.
Use cast iron or stainless steel pans for cooking. The non-stick has a chemical PFOA that is starting to show up in our blood.
Use stainless steel water containers (this also saves the earth from the billions of plastic water bottles we toss every year).
Store your leftovers and food in glass containers. If your plastic container has a #7, assume it has the chemical BPA in it unless it is specifically BPA free.
Get a house plant. It can eliminate up to 90% of the toxic chemicals in our air.
Open your windows and let the house air out. Indoor air is 2-5 times more polluted than outdoor air.

Another concern is pesticides on our produce. With summer here we're all eating a lot more fruits and veggies, but it can be costly when buying organic. You can wash and peel your fruits and veggies although pesticides can be taken up from the root and into the plant and cannot be removed.

The Environmental Working Group is a nonprofit focused on public health, scoured nearly 100,000 produce pesticide reports from the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to determine what fruits and vegetables we eat have the highest, and lowest, amounts of chemical residue. They've developed a list of the Dirty Dozen which have the most pesticides.

Buy these Organic:

Peaches
Apples
Sweet Bell Peppers
Celery
Nectarines
Strawberries
Cherries
Lettuce
Grapes (imported)
Pears
Spinach
Potatoes

They also have a list of the Cleanest 12 (lowest in pesticides)

Onions

Avocado
Sweet corn (frozen)
Pineapples
Mango
Sweet peas (frozen)
Asparagus
Kiwi
Bananas
Cabbage
Broccoli
Eggplant

Print this and keep it on your fridge. Always wash your produce regardless of which list it falls on.

Start slowly. It may feel overwhelming when you're in the market looking through all the "green" cleaners. Take a look at Young Living's natural cleaners Thieves. It works incredibly well!! It took mildew out of my shower with barely a scrub - better than the bleachy chemicals I had tried in the past. You can use it everywhere. I also love their waterless hand sanitizer. It smells good and I don't have to worry about putting my nieces putting their hands in their mouth after they've used it. If you decide to buy, enter 1097012 as your referring distributor id.

You may pay a little more now to keep your body and home clear of these toxins, but I feel it is better to pay a little more now (preventative) than pay a heck of a lot more later (illness and disease).

To your health! Live long and happy!!

Out of this World Energy Healing & Balancing!

2010-05-11T20:25:00.003-04:00

Energy Therapy with Kelly Ann & Karna!
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Lack of energy, feeling stuck, know you need change, something just doesn't feel right, wishing you could have a different life, or just need to release some energy and bring your bodies back into balance?

Imagine TWO energy bodies simultaneously channeled into a vortex of high frequency energy assisting you in the releasing, centering, and re-balancing all of your energy fields. Ahhhh....

One client said it was "out of this world - amazing!". Another said it was "like a massage of my energy field, I'm sooo relaxed". The session effects could last for days following.

What: Out of this world Energy Balancing!
Where: A Place of Healing, Wallingford
Call: 203.687.2554 or
Email: aplaceofhealing@yahoo.com for your appointment
Investment: $125, plan 75 minutes for your session
Dates: Mon, 5/24 Tues 5/25/ Wed 5/26
some evening appointments available

Ultimate Self-Care for Every-Body ~ Massage

2010-05-11T20:21:00.002-04:00

Karna is back! Massage from Sweden

It was serendipitous how Karna and I met. I was living in CT and she lived in Sweden; we met at a chocolate for charity function in NYC where she gave me the most amazing massage! Chocolate, NYC, Massage... fantastical evening!! Turns out us meeting wasn't so random after all (more on that another time). Recently I learned it was an additionally magical night for Karna. Besides meeting me that evening ;-) she also met her now Fiance' KB (pic below - don't they look SO happy?).

For a short time, Karna will be in CT holding appointments for therapuedic, healing massage. For those of you who came last time, you know what an amazing massage you recieved. For those who couldn't get in, call now and reserve your space!

Whether you need stress relief, to relax, or loosen those tight muscles, you'll leave the massage table feeling amazing!

Additionally, Karna and I are coming together creating an unique opportunity for you to receive simultaneous energy and healing therapy. See above post for details.

What: Massage!
Where: A Place of Healing, Wallingford
Call: 203.687.2554 or
Email: aplaceofhealing@yahoo.com for your appointment
Investment: $75 / 1 hour
Dates: Mon, 5/24 Tues 5/25/ Wed 5/26
some evening appointments available

This is what happened for me!

2010-04-09T09:51:00.000-04:00

First, mark your calendar with these dates and call me to register....this is some good stuff!

Workshop: DOWSING 101 ~ Explore the earth energies with Krista Polinsky
April 23, 6pm - 9pm and April 24, 9:30am - 4:30pm

At A Place of Healing ~ Wallingford, CT
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Here is what happened - Yesterday, Krista came over and did a clearing of my home and property. I didn't know what to expect, but immediately I felt a shift in both my home and within myself. Most of you know I am an energy worker and sensitive to energies not seen with the eye. I was amazed at what Krista was able to pick up using the dowsing rod and her intuition. She confirmed some challenges I'd been having, picked up on energies in and around my house - both metaphysical and geographical from now, previous occupants, and visitors! After asking a series of questions, she cleared what was ready to be cleared. I feel lighter already!!

It was neat to observe my cat Lily follow us around the whole time - cats naturally help release negative energy (she is an amazing cat! - just sayin') and then she spent about an hour laying outside in an area that needed some extra clearing. I knew when Krista left yesterday it would be an historical day... I'm excited to see what else begins to shift in my life.

Krista is an Energy Medicine Pracitioner and Feng Shui Consultant. During the clearing she also suggested some Feng Shui adjustments to help the flow of chi in my home. I FEEL the changes we made already! Last night I slept like a baby and woke with a feeling I just can't find words for at this moment...but, I want you to feel this way too!!

Join us in this workshop and learn how you can do this for you, your home, and your property and experience the shifts in and around you.

Krista says "In essence, dowsing is a tool for helping us to expand our awareness of what exists beyond the naked eye, it’s a means to uncover and release that with which keeps us from expressing our own unique essence in the world".

In this weekend workshop you will begin learning how to locate geopathic and metaphysical disturbances in the environment and ultimately how to bring more balance back into the space. You will learn techniques on how to use a L-rod and a pendulum to locate and clear these energies. Feeling 'off' or out of balance and not sure why? Ready to release what is holding you back and express your uniqueness? Come to the workshop and know you'll get exactly what you need and intend for.

Register today and receive discounted pricing of $188, after April 16th $209. Or join with a friend and receive an additional discount! This is an incredible price for a weekend workshop where you'll leave with knowledge and tools to help you create shifts in your energy and home.

Register Today! Call Kelly Ann @ 203.687.2554 or aplaceofhealing@yahoo.com

Self-Care: Dry Skin Brushing

2010-04-06T17:55:00.000-04:00

Dry Skin Brushing has been used for hundreds of years to boost the lymph system and remove dead skin cells from the body without removing the protective oils. Stimulation of circulation and lymphatic system are 2 of the “hidden” benefits. Lymphatic fluid contains waste material, and when this system becomes sluggish the results can be seen in the form of cellulite, dull complexion and poor skin tone. The backup of toxins in the lymphatic fluid puts extra stress on the other organs responsible for elimination. When dead skin cells are removed, the skin can function more effectively as an eliminative organ. It speeds up the internal cleansing of the body and reduces the stress to kidneys, lungs, and colon, which also assists in the elimination of waste (our skin is the largest elimination organ we have).

The technique of skin brushing is easy, yet important. Each stroke should be firm, yet gentle and always brush toward the heart (avoid rashes or broken skin). It is okay to improvise for your own satisfaction, just remember to work toward your heart. Before the bath or shower, while you are dry, massage your body using a dry bath brush (don't wet it). Follow with a bath or shower to rinse away the dead cells leaving softer, smoother skin.

I start at my feet and with long strokes I work my way up covering all areas of my body. The areas above my heart I start at the top of my neck and stroke downward - again toward my heart. Take extra care when brushing under the armpits and upper thighs as this is an area where the lymphatic ducts become clogged. Areas that should not be brushed are nipples, and genitals. Be gentle on the face – there are smaller brushes specific for the face.

Benefits:
 Tightens the skin and improves texture providing a firm, toned appearance
 Aids digestion

 Helps remove cellulite
 Stimulates circulation to the skin
 Increases oxygenation

 Increases cell renewal

 Drains and cleanses the entire lymphatic system

 Detoxifies the entire body

 Removes dead skin layers creating beautiful, glowing skin

 Strengthens the immune system

 Improves exchange between cells
 Reflexive stimulation of the glands
 Stimulates dry skin oil production

It is really worth the short time it takes. I've seen and felt the benefits of regular dry skin brushing - my skin is soft, smooth, and I can feel my heart pumping and my blood flowing.
What a lovely act of self-care you can do for yourself in just minutes a day.

Kale Chips!

2010-03-16T14:21:00.000-04:00

Kale, a beautiful, green leafy vegetable loaded with nutrients that could help with those cravings!

The first time I was introduced to Kale was when I started Nutrition School (I'm over 30 years old!) and I am in love with it! It’s one of the most nutritious vegetables you can find, filled with vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, phytonutrients (those handy cancer-fighting nutrients), fiber, calcium, and all kinds of essential amino acids and it is tasty!!

Potato chip lovers – Kale chips are a great swap for chips and a great way to get in your daily greens. Kids, husbands, & even my mom loves them!

Here is a great link with more of the health benefits of kale.

Try this this week!
* Preheat oven to 350

* Take 1 head fresh kale, wash and remove center stem/vien
* In a bowl pour a small amount of Olive Oil over Kale to slightly coat
* Mix well
* Place kale on baking sheet and sprinkle on seasonings of your choice. Try Mrs. Dash, garlic and pepper, chili pepper - experiment!
* Bake for 10 minutes, then flip. Bake another 10 minutes or until edges are brown and Kale is crispy when moved in the pan
* Sprinkle with sea salt to taste
* Enjoy!!

Home business offers refuge from recession

2010-03-07T11:08:00.000-05:00

The latest economic indicators may bring some hopeful tidings, but also some significant concerns. The U.S. unemployment rate is as high as it has been in 25 years, and there is continued concern about job growth.

I was laid off from my corporate job a year ago and was blessed to have been introduced to MonaVie 2 years prior. I am grateful my home based business was in place and has grown during the recession. I partnered with MonaVie, a nutritional beverage company featuring the Acai Berry. This year in the Inc, 500 magazine, MonaVie placed number 1 in Food and Beverage, number 3 in Revenue, and overall number 18 in the top 500! (it took Microsoft 8 years to get in as #80). How would you have liked an opportunity to be a part of Microsoft when they began?

MonaVie is the fastest growing home based business, over a billion dollar company in just the 5 short years they’ve been in business. MonaVie’s compensation plan provides distributors with 9 ways of making a substantial income from home. Instead of paying advertisers or retailer to get the word out about their product, MonaVie pays you for doing what you would anyway – sharing an outstanding product that will bring better health to everyone you know, and so on and so on and so on. How often do you share a good movie, book, or restaurant? Imagine being paid to share something you love.

While I’m sharing better health with everyone, I’m also teaching them to do the same, introducing people to a better way of earning an income and a better life. I am not only a distributor, but a sponsor. I sponsor those I introduce to the business and lock arms with them and teach them how to share the company and sponsor others.

The timing is perfect. Baby Boomers are aging and not only want to create a legacy for their family (you can Will your business to your children), but also want better health and to free from pharmaceutical drugs. They even want to look younger too!

There is a great sense of security knowing my business is backed by leadership in the industry with over 20 years experience. The CEO, Dallin Larson, won Ernst and Young’s Entrepreneur of the year in 2010.

In the 2 ½ years I’ve been with MonaVie they’ve consistently upgraded, improved, and add more ways for distributors to make income. Currently they are holding a Bronze to Emerald promotion with the opportunity to make an extra $10,500 from now to June 2010.

Dallin Larson says “In order to receive a blessing, you better be a blessing”. MonaVie gives back to Brazil, where the Acai Berry comes from. They’ve built homes, schools and taught parents trades to help them get off the streets and create better lives for themselves and their families. 100% of donations are given to the M.O.R.E project – MonaVie pays the administrative fees.

I realize that many wives, husbands, mothers, fathers rarely or never get the chance to do the things they want with their families because of the demands on their time from simply earning a living. Or, they don’t have the money. For me, the rewards of network marketing have allowed me to build the relationships I cherish, work the hours that fit my lifestyle, and create a life I enjoy.

If any of this resonates with you, visit my website or call me for more information on the next tasting party and how you get started. www.mymonavie.com/kellyann

Water up the nose...

2010-03-01T17:33:00.007-05:00

...hurts!! I'm not sure how many times water got up my nose while swimming that I finally decided I needed to plug my nose and learn to swim with one arm. Who would have thought years later I'm purposefully putting water UP my nose?!?!

Yes! The netti pot or neti pot. I'd seen it many times at the natural / health food store, but never considered it until a fellow classmate posted love for hers on her facebook page. I had been doing a cleanse and thought I should consider cleansing my sinuses as well. In the air we inhale there are many pollutants, dust, dust mites, chemicals, and other unknowns, its worth considering if you have any kind of sinus problem, blocked nose, allergies, headaches, or just want to breathe better!

It is really simple. Fill the pot with warm water and add 1/4 teaspoon of salt (I prefer sea salt - make sure the salt is dissolved - it will taste like tears), tilt your head back and to one side, firmly place the nozel into your nostril, and pour. Breathe through your mouth! The water will come out the other nostril. Once the pot is empty - firmly, but gently blow out your nose, both nostrils open and preferrably into a sink. For me, the initial feeling of water passing through my nose is a milli-second of oddness compared to the longer benefits of cleansing my sinuses. It certainly helps my yoga practice.

Some of the benefits may include:

opens up nasal air passages - more oxygen in the body

relief from allergies, hay fever, common cold

promotes drainage of sinuses and speeds healing of inflammed tissue

relieves chronic mucus

headache relief - got migraines?

The results are immediate and consistent use may help the body heal all on its own.

As a Health Counselor I must add in what you eat may also have an affect on your sinus health. If you produce a lot of mucus or have allergies, you may want to take a look at what you're eating. Dairy, sugar, and wheat are the top culprits...

Breathe easy!

Serendipity - 1 choice and where it led me

2010-01-13T11:31:00.034-05:00

Such a fun word. Wikipedia translation states: "Serendipity is the effect by which one accidentally stumbles upon something fortunate, especially while looking for something entirely unrelated"

I've had such a profound serendipitous experience I had to share it with you today in hopes of you recognizing when it comes into your life or maybe you can look back and see when it has or maybe you want to pull it in for yourself - but beware you may be given something entirely different than what you are looking for. There is always something we can learn from our experiences.

2 years ago I went to Omega in Rhinebeck, NY to study with Debbie Ford for 5 days on The Shadow process. There were about 60 of us there. 1 woman left because of the intensity and a handful of others were 'put' there because the program they signed up for had been cancelled. Hmm... serendipity for them! And gosh, what a place to be put without warning!!

One evening I sat next to a woman (Alyse Rynor) who also went to The Institute of Integrative Nutrition. We had that in common, the belief in Debbie's work, and the desire to make change in our lives. We spent that evening doing a couple of exercises together and then the rest of the week just "hello's" in passing. If you are familiar with Debbie's work it is very deep and intimate; many of us became very close through those days and came to the end of the week different than when we entered.

Last year I was released from the corporate job I held for 12 years. It was a relief for me because my heart was truly being called to do pursue Health Counseling and Intuitive Energy Healing. Little did I know what else was in store for me!

A few months after my release I connected with Alyse through Facebook - a few of us from that week connected there (how great is Facebook for that?!). After that week at Omega Alyse decided to continue her studies with the Debbie Ford Institute to become an Integrative Coach. She contacted me to see if I'd be willing to participate in her program as she finished her certification. Sure!

Looking back now I see how that one event changed my life this year. I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to go through the Blue Print program with Alyse - which got me on TV! Shortly after that I did (finishing up now) the "Spiritual Divorce" program. Nope, I've never been married and didn't go through a marital divorce, but I have divorced some old beliefs and behaviors that were keeping me from living an extraordinary life.

I'm coming into 2010 looking at life with a new set of eyes, a different perspective, feeling lighter, stronger, and more confident than I ever have! Looking back it was the decision to study at Omega that this serendipitous meeting occurred. I encourage you to see where you are holding yourself back, where are you saying "no", where you are waiting til...you have enough money, lose some weight, get a better job, *insert self defeating decision here* - those times may not come. Could 1 decision to let go and say "yes" open your life up to possibilities you couldn't have ever imagined?

Take a look at Alyse's work and see if it feels right for you. She is in Chicago and the phone work we've done together has been seamless. www.soulchoicecounseling.com

If you are looking for some face to face coaching, get in touch with me. The work I do is similar and a collaboration of education and personal experience. I'm happy to talk with you to see if what I do is a good match for your personal growth and healing.

So, if you are ready to live an extraordinary life, perhaps this is your serendipitous moment.

Live Large!
Kelly

PS I'd love to hear about your serendipitous moments - please share below.

What is your inner voice telling you?

2009-12-30T14:23:00.011-05:00

Don’t compromise yourself. You are all you’ve got.
-Janis Joplin

Beautiful Body Types
Almost all of us have a distorted image of our body, often due to the importance our culture places on outward appearance and the onslaught of media images of airbrushed models and celebrities. On a daily basis, we talk to ourselves in ways we would never speak to another. Imagine speaking to a child the way you speak to yourself about your body. It would devastate and squelch a child. It affects you similarly, causing stress and emotional pain in your body, which can make improving your health or losing weight even more difficult.

Our culture’s preferred body type shifts every decade or so, but whatever it is, it is usually unattainable without spending enormous amounts of time, energy and money. Think of all the intelligence, creativity and time you spend on improving, altering and judging your appearance. Who would you be and what could you accomplish if your valuable resources weren’t used this way? Constant emphasis on the external makes us discount the great presence and intelligence that is housed by the body. It makes us forget the magic of our internal rhythms and fail to acknowledge the beautiful bodies we have.

The body you have right now is incredible! It never misses a heartbeat, it maintains homeostasis and it miraculously digests whatever you put in it. It is your instrument for expressing your creativity, intelligence and love. By focusing on the 1% you don’t like or wish was different, you may be ignoring the remaining 99% about your body that is beautiful, unique and delightful.

What would your life be like if you were simply at peace with the body you have? You may wish to make your body healthier and stronger, but could you do that out of love and respect for your body instead of the opposite? Could you begin to treat yourself with kindness, to limit the negative self-talk and to reconnect with your inner wisdom? Take a minute to imagine what that would feel like. It would mean celebrating your body rather than punishing it. It would mean nourishing your body rather than depriving it. It would mean a chance to watch your body flourish just like a child flourishes when treated with care and respect.

Even when I was 100 pounds heavier I thought I'd be happier with myself if I could just lose some weight. I did lose weight, but was still unhappy - that place of bliss wasn't there 4 sizes smaller! Every pound lost I thought I'd be closer to happiness. But the truth is I needed to love myself exactly where I was with the body I had. And when that shift occurs, the weight releases. Losing weight isn't just a body process, it is a mind and soul process.

Are you ready to flourish? Today choose one part of your body to focus on. With your attention and breath send it love and compassion. Do this daily for a week, especially when you catch yourself looking at it in a negative light. Then let me know how sending love and compassion to that area has changed how you feel about yourself and your body as a whole. If you want to love yourself more, this is a good place to begin. Because no one can love you more or give you more love than you give yourself.

Namaste~

Kelly Ann

Relaxation and Exercise

2009-08-10T11:03:00.002-04:00

Summer is often a time for serious play, time off and deep relaxation. Many of us use the summertime to rebuild our reserves for the rest of the busy year. In our work-crazed society we can lose sight of the benefits of slowing down and taking time to rest.

Now that summer is in full swing, it's time to enjoy the restorative powers of reconnecting to your body through movement and relaxation. Summer is a unique time of year when we can do both our relaxation and our movement out in nature. Take a nap in a hammock and enjoy the smell of freshly cut grass. Go to the park and meditate or read under a favorite tree. One of the greatest places to rest in the summertime is by the water. There is something magical and restorative in water, and we naturally crave to be near it, by it or in it. Heading to the water, whether it is the beach, a lake or a kiddie pool, can be relaxing and rejuvenating. Just as much as the body loves to relax, the body loves to move.

Even though our body is healthiest when it is getting appropriate physical activity, we often feel dread and boredom when we hear the word "exercise." Think for a moment of what type of movement you would consider fun as opposed to torturous. Perhaps you loathe the idea of a gym, but miss taking dance classes. Maybe you secretly want to try yoga or rollerblading. You could play touch football with your kids, walk with a neighbor in the mornings or go for a swim. The summer offers so many choices - it's simply up to you to choose which style of movement excites you. Your heart will thank you, your soul will be gratified, your limbs will be more fluid and you'll sleep better at night.

Whether you are relaxing, exercising or both, notice that being outside in nature has a profound way of quieting the mind and reconnecting us to ourselves. Often this relaxation and peace of mind are what our bodies crave the most. So while summer is with us, strap on your sandals and enjoy to the fullest the rich elements of sun, wind and water and the nourishment that they bring.

Focus Food for August: Water

2009-08-10T10:59:00.002-04:00

Most of us are aware of the importance of drinking enough water. Getting our daily requirement of water helps our organs perform their functions, keeps our skin clear and hydrated, allows physical action in our bodies to flow smoothly, and helps our bodies release fat. Even with this knowledge, it can still be challenging to drink all the water our bodies deserve daily.

In the summer, when we tend to play hard, sweat and spend prolonged time in the sun, drinking plenty of water is critical. Those who are not drinking enough may experience poor digestion, sluggish thinking, skin breakouts, headaches, bad breath and general fatigue. To start your day right, set a large glass of water by your bed each night and drink it when you wake up. When the first thing that flows through your body each morning is water, it pulls out toxins left over from the previous day and freshens your system for the day ahead. Keep a bottle of water accessible throughout the day, whether you are on the go or at a desk. Having one close by will remind you to take a sip when thirsty. The first sip will usually let you know how much more water you need. A sip or two may be enough, or you may need a big glass. If you drink most of your daily water before early evening, you most likely will not be thirsty before bed. This is good, because drinking before bed and then waking to use the bathroom disturbs your peaceful night's sleep.

What about quality? Some people like bottled water, while others prefer filtered water. The key is to like the taste of the water you are drinking, and the water should agree with your body. If the taste of plain water is unappealing, experiment to see how you can make it tasty and drinkable. Try adding a few mint leaves, a wedge of lemon, a sprig of parsley, slices of cucumber, a twist of lime or a squeeze of orange to make water more tempting, or to jazz up your routine. Also, drinking tea or juice and eating raw fruits and vegetables contribute to the hydration process.

Personally I've been enjoying drops of Lemon and Tangerine, or Grapefruit essential oils in my water. You must be careful! These oils are great for detoxification, but you need to start off slowly. Contact me for more information and the best ways to blend them with water (oil and water don't mix well).

So, splash in the waves, swim in the sun, drink plenty of water and enjoy the summer fun!

If you want to know more about Young Living essential oils and how to use them for detox, healing and well-being give me a call today! 203.687.2554 or email me kellyann@aplaceofhealingllc.net

Why diets don't work!

2009-05-19T22:32:00.014-04:00

In my journey to release the last 100 pounds I lost, I tried most - if not all diets -you may have heard of. I did lose weight on the latest and greatest diet (notice the first 3 letters? DIE), but most times gained the weight back and sometimes even more! Not only was it damaging to my body, but to my emotions as well.

What is missing in these so called diets is individuality. Not one approach is going to work for everyone. Lifestyle, blood type, heritage, stress level, career, relationship status, and much more are a factor in good health. I found balance in my life and happily have kept off those pesky 100 pounds. When I find myself putting on a couple extra pounds I know its more about what is going on in my life than what I'm putting in my mouth and sometimes they are directly related. Where I am now is a place of awareness ~ what a great place to be!

Do you find yourself stressed out when thinking about what you can and can't eat on the diet? In turn, is food all you're thinking about? The reason diets do not work is because they are not sustainable. Our bodies want balance. Denial and deprivation only lead to devouring what you took out in order to lose weight and then throws your body out of balance. OR when we're depriving ourselves we end up hoarding what we have (IE keeping weight on).

When striving for weight loss or good health know that real change takes time and the key is discovering the right approach that works for YOU. Your body has the answers, you just need a guide to help you find those answers within.

What I've also come to discover in my personal journey and working with my clients is it's not just about what we eat, but what "feeds" us. Ever notice when you're in love, food isn't as important? Do you notice when you get stressed at the office or at home you suddenly need or want a candy bar or chips? What are your triggers and stresses that cause you to eat when you really aren't hungry? Do you have a comfort food you crave when you are feeling down or lonely? Do you have a habit of heading right to the fridge or snack drawer when you walk in the door? It happens to all of us. The key to eliminating these triggers is first realizing it, then getting to the bottom of why you are triggered - all while having compassion for yourself. Love, Friendships, and self-care are just a few ways to "feed" yourself what your body is craving.

Self sabotage is another way of preventing us from long term, sustainable weight loss. For me it seems I get to a level of satisfaction & happiness and inadvertently destroy it. I'd be happy how my clothes fit or my exercise routine is going well, or I land a really great gig and suddenly I'm binging on food and stopping the gym routine. Can you relate to any form of self sabotage?

Our health isn't only about our physical beings, its about our mental and spiritual beings. If there is a part of us that isn't comfortable or in fear another part of us will kick in to protect us. I've observed people put on weight to hide, put space between themselves and their partner, to keep themselves from getting the dream job, to keep themselves from being seen by the opposite sex, to feel safe, to test their partner (will they stay for better or worse?), to keep 'fitting' in with their family or friends OR to not lose weight for fear of losing friends. These are all emotional beliefs we carry around where a part of us believes we are actually protecting ourselves.

As you can see losing weight, gaining health, and bringing balance into your life goes deeper than the bag of chips we're looking for comfort from or the endless hours of exercise and boring salads. The reassuring news is - you can regain balance, attain better health and lose the weight forever by discovering what is keeping you unhealthy and (dare I say it?) fat.

Food it meant to be enjoyed and so is Life! If any or all of this resonates with you and you are ready for long term, sustainable weight loss and better health, without discipline or denial, contact me for an initial consultation. I'd be happy to share with you more about my approach and help you uncover what your body truly desires. Its a journey well worth going on...

Seasons of Change and Gratitude

2008-12-02T23:43:00.000-05:00

What is new and good?

I recently celebrated my 20 year high school reunion. Wow! I still cannot grasp how quickly 20 years went by. My classmates were a great crew; many Lyman Hall students after us admired what a tight group we were. I was touched by the amazing accomplishments we’ve all made and how well we all aged. I am so proud of all of you!

I looked back and reviewed what I accomplished in the last 20 years and realized the most significant changes were made when I set my mind to change. Makes sense, right? But I spent a lot of my years wanting change, but never really taking action until I’d had enough! Sure, we can think about all we want in our lives, complain about what we don’t have - what is holding you back from taking action? For me it was mostly fear – a 4 letter word!

I'd had enough when I was 100 pounds heavier and decided I wanted better health and lost the weight, when I was unhappy in my career I found a job to fit my lifestyle, when my relationships weren’t working I changed them and took time to discover who I am and what I really wanted out of life, and when my life’s purpose wasn’t clear I searched and asked and was led to finish college, attend energy medicine school, become certified in Usui and Shamballa Reiki, open a business, and graduate Nutrition school. Wow! and that was only in the last 5 years. But before then so much of my story was a “story” which kept me from realizing what I really wanted out of life. I was holding myself back. When I let go of my "story" real change happened in my life. Is there a ‘story’ you are holding onto that is keeping you from living your best life ever?

I remember times where I just “lived” – getting through the daily tasks of work, self-care (limited to shower & makeup and now it has such a broader, more fulfilling meaning), laundry, dinner, and sleep. When I started to live on purpose my life became a purpose! Now I guide and coach people to find themselves, get out of their ‘stories’, love themselves for who they are, create sustainable change, and a life they love! As we change those around us change. As Ghandi said, “Be the change you want to see in the world”. What change are you ready to see? What life do you want to live?

As we wrap up the Thanksgiving holiday, a time where giving “Thanks” is more prominent in our discussions, I am grateful for many things – my family, friends, health, home, my cats (one who is purring next to me as I write this), all the good times, and all the challenging times which pushed me to make change what I didn’t like in my life. Are you ready to open yourself up to change and see what appears in your life? I actually make it a practice to be grateful and thankful every day of the year – for all that comes into my life. As I show gratitude, more great things appear in my life.

I am excited to have had the chance to connect with my high school classmates – to connect with those I barely knew to those I knew since elementary school. How different we are, but how much we've remained the same. I am also excited for the holiday celebrations - to connect with family and friends. For me it is not only bout the food and gifts, but about really making connections, really ‘being’ with those close to me and getting to know those new to my life.

These last 20 years of experiences have been like ingredients in a recipe – a recipe of my life, ingredients which are always encouraging me to grow and be the best person I can be. What ingredients are you most grateful for? What experiences are you ready to add to your recipe of life?

My yearbook quote was “Life moves pretty fast, if you don’t move around once and a while you could miss it!” Who knew?!?! It took me a few years to catch up with that wisdom, but living life on purpose and in the moment has been very fulfilling. How will you live “on purpose” today?