Reflections

" “You are God. Everything in the Universe is yours. Stretch out your arms and embrace it with love. If you ever felt you wanted to do that, you have felt God.” "
- Vivikenanda

Lifestyle

Essential Oils

THERAPEUTIC ESSENTIAL OILS

BERGAMOT Citrus bergamia - fruit rind
Anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-depressant

BITTER ORANGE Citrus aurantium vulgaris - fruit rind
Anti-bacterial, sedating

CHAMOMILE Matricaria recutita - flowers
Analgesic, anti-spasmodic, anti-microbial, anti-anaphylactic
Oil contains azulene, and should be blue in color

EUCALYPTUS Eucalyptus globulus, E.spp - leaves
Antiseptic, balsamic, expectorant, hypoglycemic, rubefacient, stimulant, vulnerary
Can be used neat topically - watch for hypersensitivity

GERANIUM Pelargonium odorantissimum - herb
Analgesic, astringent, anti-septic, anti-depressant, diuretic, hemostatic, sedative
Stimulant of the adrenal cortex

Read more: Essential Oils

 

Flower Essences

Self-Help Guide to the Bach Remedies

AGRIMONY - For those not wishing to burden others with their troubles and who cover up their suffering behind a cheerful façade. They are distressed by argument or quarrel, and may seek escape from pain and worry through the use of drugs and alcohol.

ASPEN - For those who experience vague fears and anxieties of unknown origin, they are often apprehensive.

BEECH - For those who while desiring perfection easily find fault with people and things. Critical and at times intolerant, they may overreact to small annoyances or idiosyncrasies of others.

Read more: Flower Essences

 

Nasal Lavage

Indications:
  • The nasal lavage is a simple and effective home treatment for the following complaints:
  • Sinus infections (acute or chronic)
  • Nasal congestion
  • Allergies to inhaled substances (dust, pollens, mold, etc.)
  • Colds, flu
  • Nasal passage irritation

Read more: Nasal Lavage

   

Steam Inhalation

THERAPEUTIC USE OF VOLATILE OILS

STEAM INHALATION - TENT METHOD

 

  1. Boil 2-3 cups of water, and remove from heat.  You may transfer water to a heavy porcelain or glass (Pyrex) bowl to reduce chances of accidental burning.
  2. Add 5-10 drops of essential oil
  3. Position self so that head is above container of water, no closer than 9 inches, and drape towel (bath size best) over head and bowl, forming a tent.
  4. Inhale vapor with slow, deep breaths for 5-10 minutes.
  5. Repeat as directed (2-3 times a day)

Read more: Steam Inhalation

 

Weight Loss Tips

EATING FOR HEALTH - TIPS FOR LOSING WEIGHT
  • Set yourself a realistic target, usually 1 to 2 pounds per week is recommended.
  • Make up your mind to take off and keep off excess weight by healthy eating.
  • Get to know your eating problem areas.  Start a food record for a week.  Review it to spot special problems like high-calorie snacks, mood related eating, and lapses on weekends.
  • Use calorie charts to count the calories until you know where the problem are.
  • Plan ahead, never leave the content of your meals to chance.
  • For the first few weeks measure your portion sizes so that you are sure you’re not eating too much.
  • Eat smaller portions instead of giving up favorite foods.
  • Serve meals on smaller plates.
  • Keep a supply of prepared fresh vegetables and other low calorie snack on hand to nibble on.
  • Avoid second helpings.
  • Reduce or cut out concentrated calorie sources high in sugar, alcohol, and fat, such as butter, cream, fatty meats, salad dressings, rich cakes, and pastries.  Substitute vegetables, fruits, and dilute juices, which are higher in bulk and protective vitamins and minerals.
  • Avoid eating and drinking while watching TV.
  • Spice up your cooking with low-calorie Herb’s and spices instead of high-calorie gravies and sauces.
  • Omit the cocktail hour and cut down on alcohol generally.
  • Drink plenty of water, 8-10 8 oz glasses per day.
  • Eat more slowly, chewing at least 20 times per bite.
  • Avoid temptation by keeping high-calorie items out of your house.
  • Don’t feel guilty if you slip now and then, just get back on track.
  • Get moving, aim to increase your physical activity and exercise by at least 30 minutes a day more than you do now.
  • Eat a mini-meal every three to four hours throughout the day.  You’ll speed up your metabolism, and stay full all the time.
  • Believe in yourself, you can and will succeed.