As we sat quietly, I sipped broccoli soup and ate a delicious couscous - chick pea salad. After several minutes, we began to speak, first about the weather and the adorable small children playing nearby, and then about how nourishing the food felt that we were enjoying. And then Sahanna winced. “Are you ok?” I asked her.

“I’m getting another bad headache. It feels like a vise tightening across my temples and the sides of my head. I’ve been getting these a lot lately,” she told me. She paused. “My Dad’s had me at the doctor’s office and the hospital for all sorts of tests, but so far, nothing.”

Sahanna’s dad, Robert, approached from behind and fluffed her hair as he sat down in the chair that someone had just vacated on her other side. “Hey, Dad! We were just talking about you! I was just telling her that you can’t resist dragging me to every doctor in Boston to see what’s causing my headaches!”

Robert’s soft smile transformed immediately to concern. “Got another one?” he asked.

“Yeah. But don’t worry, Dad, it’s not that bad.” Sahanna got up, tickling one of the toddlers as she passed by them.

“Raising a daughter alone is a full-time job… and then some,” Robert offered as he began to sip his soup.

“Yeah; I have two daughters. I know what you mean.” There was a moment of silence as we ate. “Hey, I don’t want to butt in,” I said to Robert as he nibbled at his fried rice, “but I may have some insights I could share with you about chronic headaches, if you’re interested. I’m an herbalist and I’ve worked with several young people with various health concerns, including chronic headaches.”

“You’re an herbalist? I just got a card from Gina… Is this you?” He pulled a flowery business card from his pocket.

“That’s me!” I said.

“I was going to call you later to make an appointment for Sahanna and me to discuss her health and what might help her headaches. Gina said you may be able to help her with the teenage acne, too!” Robert and I planned a consultation for the next morning.

After asking several questions, then hearing Sahanna’s story of enduring her mother’s almost two year struggle with breast cancer, promising to always be good for Daddy, then watching her pass while she and her Dad held her Mom’s hands, tears dropping from their cheeks, I was beginning to get a sense that this sweet, soft, gentle young lady was tied in knots inside.

“You’ve both been through a lot. When did your wife pass?” I asked, looking toward Robert.

“It’s been almost two years ago now.” He reached over and held his daughter’s hand. “Sahanna’s headaches started about six months later. Nothing serious at first, but then she had a bad reaction to baby aspirin and was hospitalized for four days! That just about did me in! I couldn’t leave her side. I don’t think I even used the restroom the first day! I couldn’t move or even look away for a second.” He slowed and took a deep breath. We all sat and breathed long, slow deep breaths for a few moments.

“Sahanna, do you drink much water?” I asked.

“Not really,” she answered quietly.

“Do you drink soda?”

“Mom didn’t let me have soda. We didn’t ever eat white sugar or anything with corn syrup when she was with us. She used to tell me to drink water all the time. She’d say, ‘It’s gooooooood for youuuuuuu’ with her funny pursed lips!” She paused, deep in thought; then smiled. “I forgot about that… until now. Does water help with headaches?” she asked.

“It sure does!” I answered. “In fact, most headaches are due to either dehydration or excess stress. And water is excellent for both! Makes a lot of sense, doesn’t it!” Their eyes widened. I went on, “I know how teens think it’s cool to drink soda, but it can be quite hard on our bodies. Drinking soda can increase dehydration, especially heavily caffeinated ones like cola.”

“Wow. Mom was right!” Sahanna looked directly into Robert’s eyes. “You know, I think I was kind of mad at her for not being here, so I wasn’t going to do what she always told me to do. I kind of stopped drinking water. Dad, I’m sorry; I’ve been drinking soda with my friends, too. I know you and Mom always said it’s bad for me. I’m really, really sorry.”

“That’s ok, Hon,” Robert whispered as he hugged her. “I’m just glad you didn’t stop brushing your teeth, or putting on clean clothes in the morning, too! That would have been bad!”

We talked about the importance of drinking pure, fresh water. They were concerned about sediment and mineral contamination in their well water. I told them about the two superb quality water filtration systems that I sell. Robert was certain that he would invest in one of them, especially when I added that the clean, pure water they’d be drinking would only cost them six to seven cents per gallon and no plastic jugs to pollute our beautiful Earth.

Here are a few of the facts that I shared with them:
Our bodies are composed of 70 to 80% water.
Brain cells are 75-85% water. Drinking clean, fresh water is believed to improve the mind and brain function.
The brain prefers to use electrical energy generated by hydrolysis, rather than by blood sugar (glucose).

“There are other major benefits to drinking enough water when you’re a teen, too.” I said. “You may get less PMS and less bloated and possibly even less acne. And you may feel less sad and blue, too. That’s because water helps to plump up and nourish our cells and wash away the toxins so they don’t build up and make us feel bad.”

“I feel like I’m stressed all the time” Sahanna blurted out. “I have school, and soccer, and piano, and my friends… and way too much homework! My bag’s too heavy when I come home every night. It all feels so stressful sometimes. My stomach feels tied in knots.”

“Yeah, I remember when my daughter, Kaia, felt that way, too.” I responded, and then paused. “There are some great herbs to help us feel calm and feel less stressed and anxious. They make a nice tasting herb tea that you can drink warm or cool.”

“I could use something like that, too,” Robert said. “Could the same herbs work for my stress?”

“I would think so,” I assured him. We decided to walk over to the co-op so I could show them the various possibilities. As we walked, I explained to them that herbs really only work effectively if we use a high quality product. I suggested that they read my articles called “Quality is Everything” and “Seven Steps to a Worry Free Day” when they had a few moments.

We first looked at the Ginger Honey Tonic (also called Ginger Wonder Syrup and Digestion Ginger Honey Tonic; same great product with differing names for different sections of the supplements department) made by New Chapter. I suggested that my daughters and I have found it very helpful whenever stress tied our stomachs in knots or caused us to feel indigestion (reflux). We usually mix it into mineral water or a warm tea, but sometimes we enjoy it directly from the spoon.

We looked at all the new flavors of Tulsi Tea from Organic India.” Tulsi,” I explained “is the Sanskrit name for Holy basil (a cousin of culinary basil), and excellent for assisting us with attention, focus and completion of tasks. It helps to calm the mind, giving us a break from that endless loop tape that plays over and over when we’d prefer to rest, meditate or relax. It’s great for the immune system, for when we feel overwhelmed and over stimulated by light or noise or touch or anything; and it helps to calm a nervous stomach, too. Holy basil tea may be sipped throughout the day to protect against excess stress, and is soothing just before bedtime to support restful sleep.”

“Sounds like the whole world could use that!” Robert piped in.

“I know I could use everything you just mentioned,” Sahanna added.

“Robert, you may prefer the capsules from New Chapter. This product here.” I pointed to the Holy Basil in the 90 v-caps bottle. “New Chapter makes two excellent Holy Basil products, but the one that seems to work best for the stress, anxiousness and irritability is the one in the veggie caps,” I explained. “I pop one when I’m feeling really stressed and in about seven minutes, I feel renewed and revived!”

I suggested that Rhodiola, Bacopa, Ashwagandha or Eleuthero (formerly called Siberian ginseng) may also be helpful. I explained the nuanced differences in the effects I have observed with each of them so that they could make an informed choice.

“I find that I choose Rhodiola if I need to cram for a test, when I need to retain a lot of organized or random information, or if I need to perform some task in a very exact manner. I can be a bit clumsy,” I laughed as I thought about it. I suggested they read “Attention and Focus Go to School with our Kids”. I showed them the Rhodiola Force 100 from New Chapter, and suggested that a capsule emptied and stirred into hot water makes a refreshing pick-me-up. It’s good in tulsi, peppermint, chai or other teas, too.

“Bacopa helps us to become ‘complete’ with those things that can drain our energy. This can help us get into the deeper REM sleep, the restorative sleep that is so important for good health. It was very helpful for me after a traumatic experience a few months ago,” I shared. “It helped me let go of the fear and return to being a good, deep sleeper.

“Ashwagandha and Eleuthero, both adaptogens, help to restore the deep well that most of us have long ago let run dry. Ashwagandha is a very popular Ayurvedic herb that helps us deal with physical, mental and emotional stress, and it supports immune and nervous system health. Most people take it during the day, which also helps us sleep more deeply at night.

“Eleuthero, formerly known as Siberian ginseng but not truly in the Panax ginseng family, is well known the world over to be helpful for stress, too. Research shows it to help folks with headaches, sleep problems, clear thinking, inflammation and strenuous physical performance.

“Organix South makes a great product that I find helpful called Day Stress Formula. It contains Ashwagandha and another cool herb called Shatavari. Their Night Stress Formula is mostly Bacopa,” I explained.

They picked up a couple bottles of the Ginger Honey Tonic and several bottles of mineral water. Robert thought that he could use both the Day and the Night Stress Formulas. He also figured he should have some of the New Chapter Holy Basil (in the v-caps) on hand for when they needed it.

Sahanna liked the idea of the Tulsi Tea a lot. She chose three flavors; Chai, Pomegranate and Honey Chamomile. I mentioned to them that when we make a medicinal herbal tea, we must put a lid on the tea cup (or pot) while the tea steeps, if we want the full benefits. She also wanted to have a bottle of Rhodiola Force 100 on hand for exam time, to take some of the pressure off.

“The Omega 3 essential fatty acids are shown to be an essential part of good brain and nerve health, too,” I continued. “We must consume the Omega 3 fats; we cannot produce them in our bodies. Found in fish, hemp seed, flax and algae, my favorite source for consuming Omega 3 fatty acids is organic hemp seed. It’s delicious! Hemp seeds are a rich source of many important nutrients, including complete protein, one of the only vegetarian sources; a perfect balance of the essential fats and they’re rich in several important minerals such as magnesium, iron, manganese and potassium. Magnesium’s great for helping with stress, too. You can sprinkle the seeds on salads, veggies, toast, soup, in smoothies, anything, even ice cream!” I showed them the organic hemp seeds from Nutiva, and pointed out the hemp oil and protein powder, too. Robert tossed two bags of the whole seeds and a bottle of the oil into the cart. “Is it better than flax?” he asked.

“Organic Hemp Oil provides the ideal ratio of the Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, helpful for virtually all cells in the body. It is easier to digest and more shelf stable than flax, and we don’t need to worry about heavy metals like we do with fish. And hemp protein powder is not very processed, high in fiber and has no added sugar. It’s great in smoothies or baked into muffins.” We walked over to the café and sat down to sip some tea.

“There is a wealth of research showing that the practice of meditation is helpful for reducing excess stress. Quieting the mind for just twenty minutes a day, whether walking in the woods, jogging along the river or sitting peacefully with closed eyes, is found to relax the body and reduce inflammation and pain.” I sat back and took a deep breath. I sighed, smiling, as I exhaled.

“It all sounds so easy! We can do this!” Sahanna exclaimed. “Dad, this’ll be fun! We can help each other, right?” They hugged one another. I’m sure I was smiling ear to ear; and I’m pretty sure a felt one tear leap from my right eye as I watched them.

A week later, Robert, Sahanna and I did a private whole foods cooking class. I taught them how to make a basic miso vegetable soup, sautéed garlic and greens and my famous rice-quinoa salad. They enjoyed learning these basics and worked quite well together in the kitchen.

Three months later, I spoke to Robert and Sahanna. She had had only one more headache, and she told me that when she felt it coming on, she filled a large glass with the delicious filtered water that now flows from their tap, drank most of it and a few minutes later she realized that her headache was gone! “And no more soda for me,” she added proudly.

General Health and Wellness

Nourishing Traditions Fallon (adv), (also a cookbook)
Healing With Whole Foods Pitchford (adv)
Food and Healing Colbin
The Life Bridge Sarnat, Schulick & Newmark
Anatomy of an Illness Cousins
Beyond Aspirin Newmark & Schulick
Lick the Sugar Habit Appleton
Your Body Knows Best Gittleman
French Women Don’t Get Fat Guiliano
The Web That Has No Weaver Kaptchuk (adv)
Your Body’s Many Cries for Water Batmanghelidj

Specialized Health and Wellness

Renew Your Life Watson
Gut Solutions: Natural Solutions To Your Digestive Problems Watson, Smith, Holt & Stockton
Foundations of Health Hobbs
Nourishing Wisdom David
Fats That Heal, Fats That Kill Erasmus (adv)
Probiotics: Nature’s Internal Healers Trenev
The Body Ecology Diet Gates (also a cookbook)
Food and Our Bones Colbin
Healthy Bones Appleton
The Cure for All Diseases Clark
The Cure for All Cancers Clark
Stopping Inflammation Appleton

Herbals

New Holistic Herbal Hoffman
Medical Herbalism Hoffman (adv)
The Book of Herbal Wisdom Wood (adv)
Sacred Plant Medicine Buhner
Indian Herbology of North America Hutchens (adv)
Family Herbal Gladstar
Herbal Antibiotics Buhner
Nature’s Children Levy
Herbal Healing for Women Gladstar
New Menopausal Years, The Wise Woman Way Weed
A Woman’s Book of Herbs Soule
Sastun Arvigo
Growing Gourmet and Medicinal Mushrooms Stamets (adv)
Medicinal Mushrooms Hobbs
MycoMedicinals Stamets (adv)
Tibetan Ayurveda Sachs (adv)
Flower Remedy Book Shapiro
Flower Essence Repertory Kaminski
The Rhodiola Revolution Brown, Gerbarg, Graham
Dandelion Medicine Mars

Cookbooks

The Book of Whole Meals Colbin
Wild Fermentation Katz
Meals That Heal Turner
The Healthy Kitchen Weil & Daley
Fields of Greens Somerville
Greens Glorious Greens Albi & Walthers
Not Milk, Nut Milks! Cole
Natural Gourmet Colbin
Book of Miso Shurtleff (now out of print)
Sea Vegetable Celebration Erhart & Cerier
Recipes from an Ecological Kitchen Sass
Roots Mayes & Gottfried
Low-Carb Cooking With Stevia Kirkland
365 Ways to Cook Vegetarian Morse
Whole Meals Weber
Amazing Grains Saltzman
Asian Vegetables Brown
The Sacred Kitchen Robertson & Robertson
The Crockery Cook Hoffman
The Schwarzbein Principle Cookbook Schwarzbein
Ayurvedic Cooking for Self Healing Lad & Lad
The Self Healing Cookbook Turner
All Moosewood Cookbooks Katzen
The Sprouting Book Wigmore
Almost Vegetarian Shaw
The Joy of Pickling Ziedrich
Hot Vegetables Carpenter
The Kripalu Cookbook Levitt
New Laurel’s Kitchen Robertson
The Nutritional Yeast Cookbook Stepaniak
Recipes from the Moon Beardsworth
Peaceful Palate Raymond
Stonyfield Farm Yogurt Cookbook Hirshberg
The Tempeh Cookbook Bates
Curries Without Worries Koul
Round-The-World Cooking at the Natural Gourmet Stark
Herbal Soups Bass
Olives Table English, Sampson, Tremblay
The Wild Food Gourmet Gardon
New Vegetarian Baby Yntema
Vegetarian Children Yntema

Uplifting

The Man Who Planted Trees Giono
The Alchemist Coelho
Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff Carlson
Peace Is Every Step Hahn (and all his other books, too)
The Good Heart H.H. the Dalai Lama (and all his other books, too)
The Bioneers Ausubel
Son-Rise Kaufman
Son Rise: The Miracle Continues Kaufman

Children

The Dandelion Seed Anthony
Dear Children Of The Earth Schimmel
All I See Is Part of Me Curtis
Fun Is a Feeling Curtis
A Kid’s Herb Book Tierra

Political Regarding Health, Herbs & Foods

Fast Food Nation Schlosser
Food Politics Nestle
Food Fight: The Inside Story of the Food Industry Brownell
Mad Cowboy Lyman
Our Stolen Future: How We Are Threatening Our Fertility, Intelligence and Survival Colburn
Against the Grain: Biotechnology and the Corporate Takeover of Your Food Lappe/Bailey

“My friend, Shelley, suggested I call you. She said you helped her and her daughter learn how to stop getting chronic sinus infections, and you could probably help me, too,” he exclaimed. And then, in a timid voice, he asked me if he had to believe in these herbs and natural things, ‘cause he didn’t really think he did. I told him that I thought they would probably be able to help him, even if he didn’t believe in them yet. After all, he was willing to meet with me and purchase the herbs at our local co-op, so it seemed he did have a bit of faith.

“No,” he said. “I really don’t. I’m only doing this because Shelley won’t stop talking about you and how much better she feels. I just want to be able to talk about other things, and she doesn’t want to see me suffering all the time. I’m just doing it for her.”

We met that afternoon, and at the end of our session, he told me that he was only willing to take one thing; one product. This was a challenge, since I have found that herbal and nutritional programs seem to help more than the ‘one thing at a time’ method. But I understood that so many folks have had bad experiences with medications and such in the past, and need to feel comfortable with their herbal plan. I suggested that, in my opinion, the best products, if only one was going to be chosen, would probably be one the following:

Sambu Elderberry Concentrate (or Sambu Guard) by Flora
Elder Flower Glycerite by Avena Botanicals, and
Nasal Support by Eclectic Institute.

He decided to purchase the Sambu. We talked about the simplicity of the formula and the special qualities of the three ingredients; Elder flower, Elderberry and honey. Elder flower tincture or syrup helps to calm and restore the nervous system. It is a powerful herb for helping to settle the sinuses when they feel inflamed and over-reactive. It’s very high in bioflavonoids, including quercetin, helping to alkalize the sinus region.

Elderberry is an ancient remedy for cold and flu, and the latest research shows those vibrant purple berries that the birds love so much to be a powerful tool against viruses and for optimizing the entire immune system.

Honey has been used since the earliest recordings as a remedy for numerous ailments. Folk medicine has hailed honey a cure-all for centuries. Soothing and nurturing, Flora uses only the highest quality honey and the finest herbal ingredients in all of their superb products.

“In your grandmother’s time,” I said, “they would have offered someone with a chronic sinus problem just a teaspoon or so of their homemade Elderberry and flower syrup every time the pain and discomfort began to return.” And then I was sure to tell him that I couldn’t actually suggest that he do this and disregard the instructions required to be printed on the label. “It is not legal for me to do,” I explained.

Three days later, I got a call from Martin. He called to say that he was
“… guardedly optimistic about his sinuses.” He told me that this was the first time he had had three consecutive days where he was not in nearly constant discomfort. He had just visited the co-op for his second bottle of Sambu.

I heard from this sweet elder gentleman three more times. About seven and a half months after his first (and only) Wellness Consultation, Martin called me to say that he was finally a true believer in the herbs and in holistic healing! He hadn’t had a ‘bad day’ in those seven months! He told me that he once visited the co-op for his Sambu and they were out of it. He panicked! The girl there had told him that they couldn’t get it for him for at least a week. He said he drove almost an hour away to buy a bottle so he wouldn’t run out, and that from that day on, he would be buying them three at a time!

I asked Martin if he was ready to take the next step in helping his body to restore its overall health, integrity and harmony. His response surprised me. He told me that he loved taking the delicious Sambu Elderberry Concentrate every morning and evening. He said he had come to rely on it as his ‘vitality tonic’, reporting that the feeling he got from it was similar to when his Mom and Dad took Geritol [for the younger generation: this was an over-the-counter supplement advertised on early television for the relief of ‘iron poor blood’] when they were in their latter years! He said that “… if it’s not broken, why call the repairman. I don’t know how long I have on this Earth; years I hope! I think I’ll just stick with the Sambu.” He paused. “And if anything else ever breaks down in this old body, I think I’ll call you first!” We both chuckled.

The stifling heat of summer is another story. We know that we should take it easy when it’s hot and humid, and that we should be very diligent about drinking enough water, although not enough of us do. I hope you’re doing what you can to experience a balanced body, mind and spirit, wherever you may be.

Let’s go on to the wonderful blog posts and articles included in this week’s Carnival of Healing.

We begin this edition with Raymond David Salas’ fine article about a truly potent and safe way to help alkalize the body. The Benefits of Celtic Sea Salt is posted at ZenChill Power Tools Blog. Here’s another simple way to take in electrolytes and trace minerals to help keep the body’s fluids in balance during extreme heat.

A brilliant collection of valuable resources may be found in Kevin Bedell’s A simple step you can take: Eat more locally grown food posted at 21st Century Citizen. This is truly a key piece of the solution to better health for ourselves, our families, communities and our beautiful planet.

Do you work at a desk? Are you wanting to take off a few nagging pounds around the middle or from your thighs? Has Dianne M. Buxton got the answer for you! Healthy Office Space Workoutsis one of the most brilliant and practical ideas to come down the path in a long while! Find it posted at manifestingsuccess and enjoy!

Craig Harper is simply delicious! Reading any of his posts is as good as a hot fudge sundae made from organic ice cream! Life Beyond the Physical… Exploring the Oogabooga (part one) will likely tickle you in places you forgot were there. Find this and so much more at Motivational Speaker - Craig Harper.

Mary Kearns suggests we Park It the next time we have a free afternoon or want to get away for the weekend. After all, the US is a vacation deprived nation, and our national parks are an amazing resource and they make the perfect setting for nurturing our minds, bodies and spirits. Check out Becoming Your StellarSelf.

My entry, found here at Wisdom of Healing, is a recipe for daily detoxification and yummy, easily utilized nutritional foods blended into a smoothie. Energy Drinks, Delicious and Green! gives you dozens of healthy options to combine to your taste or needs. I hope you enjoy these as much as many of my students have.

Alvaro Fernandez brings to our attention how science is ‘proving’ what we know in our hearts to be so; gratitude is good for us. Please check out Mental Training for Gratitude and Altruism, found at Brain Health Blog.

edithyeung addresses all those folks, young or mature, who are now awakening to the reality that the mundane life of a typical western citizen is not truly satisfying (no matter how much stuff we may collect), and it’s not what we’re really here for. How to Find Your Greatness (Inspired by Barbara DeAngelis) a simple personal growth assignment for those who choose to find meaning and purpose in life, may well change your life! You will find it posted at Edith Yeung.Com: Dream. Think. Act.

I love everything I’ve read from Aparna. (I must meet you!) Fenugreek (methi) for health and beauty is a delightful list of simple and practical uses for a spice that most of us have in the cupboard, but we have no idea how to use it. You may find this and other great lists and articles posted at Beauty and Personality Grooming.

Debra Moorhead gives us a reminder about the importance of Recharging Your Batteries to nurture the spirit and improve performance. Find it at Debra Moorhead . com.

therapydoc is always entertaining and thought provoking; an excellent therapist I am certain. Todays topic, Can You Cry Too Many Tears?, is a relevant question for many, and may be found posted at Everyone Needs Therapy.

Eric presents us with valuable information for outdoor enthusiasts everywhere in How To Relieve the Pain of a Bee Sting in Under 30 Seconds posted at Husbandhood. Thank yous are coming to you from parents everywhere, Eric, I am sure.

Craig J. Phillips tells us a very personal and deeply emotional story of his recovery from a traumatic brain injury resulting from a childhood car accident and his ability to overcome adverse attitudes and circumstances in My Journey thus Far, found at his site Second Chance to Live.

Tupelo Kenyon brings up how important it is to Take Time for You so that you may do your best to give care for others. It’s posted at Tupelo Kenyon.

Cade Krueger suggests that Mixing Up Your Exercise relieves boredom. It’s found at Write To Right Your Home Based Business Opportunity.

Patricia Singleton says “I wrote this about that magical, mystical part of myself that wants to heal herself, me and the world…” in Keeper Of My Creativity, posted at Spiritual Journey of a Lightworker.

Karen Halls presents a checklist so that you may better choose The Best Drug Treatment Programs and Drug Addiction Treatment, posted at Addiction Recovery Blog.

Jimmy Atkinson gives us 12 Reasons Medical Tourism Is So Popular | Medical Tourism Guide, posted at Medical Tourism Guide.

Certainly a lot of great information for you here! I hope you’ve enjoyed it. Please access the
Carnival of Healing archives, or visit last week’s carnival at Debra Moorhead . com and next week’s carnival at Wellness Through Wisdom. Have a good week!

Dozens of people have told me that I make the best green smoothies they’ve ever tasted. The recipe has been tweaked over the years, but they continue to win the taste buds of even the more skeptical people who dare to take that first small sip.

First, I make homemade almond milk. Actually, I make a combination Sunflower seed/Pumpkin seed/Almond and Brazil nut milk (recipe below). I make up two or three days’ worth of nut milk at a time. (It’s also great on cereal.)

I mix up my powders in a large canister in advance, since I can be a bit clumsy in the morning (fewer things to locate or knock over this way).

My current recipe is as follows:

1 ½ Cups Homemade Nut/ Seed Milk
1 TBSP Tohum Sesame Tahini (or organic almond butter)
¼ Cup Organic Whole Milk Plain Yogurt
1-2 tsp Ginger Wonder Syrup by New Chapter
1 tsp Mulberry Syrup by Tohum
1-2 TBSP Hemp Oil by Nutiva
3-4 TBSP Green Powder Mix (recipe below)

Blend on high for 30 to 60 seconds.

Green Powder Mix
Mix equal parts of the following:

Spirulina by Pure Planet
Berry Green by New Chapter
Sweet Whey Powder by Bernard Jensen
Fiber Smart (Triple Fiber or Organic Bowel Cleanse) by Renew Life
Hemp Protein by Nutiva or Rice Protein by Nutribiotics
Nutritional Yeast

To this, I currently add ½ part of the following herbs:
Red Clover
Nettles, organic, of course.

And I add ¼ part:
Nori or kelp flakes (sea vegetable)

Homemade Nut Milk or Seed Milk

(This recipe is for Sunflower Seed Milk, but any truly raw nut or seed may be substituted.)
Note: In the US, ‘raw cashews’ are not really raw, and very soon, ‘raw almonds’ will not be raw, either.

2 Heaping TBSP raw organic sprouted sunflower seeds (see below)
1 quart filtered water
1 TBSP hemp seed oil (or sunflower oil)
1-2 TBSP organic sweetener, (if desired)

To sprout the seeds:
Soak the seeds in a glass jar ½ filled with water overnight.
Discard the soaking water; rinse the seeds, strain and place in a blender.

To blend the nut milk:
Add ½ cup of the filtered water.
Blend on high for 30 to 60 seconds.
Add the balance of the quart of water, oil and sweetener, (if desired).
Blend on high for one minute more.
Enjoy!

Note: If you choose to use Brazil Nuts, they are ideally soaked for a full 48 hours! (Change the soaking water once after 24 hours, when possible.)

Below, you will find other possibilities. Honestly, there are hundreds or even thousands of other products to choose from, but we should always remember that quality is the most important factor when selecting a nutritional product.

Create Your Own Ideal Energy Drink

Energy drinks are ideal for breakfast, lunch or even dinner.
Put desired ingredients in blender and mix on high for 30 to 60 seconds.

As the Base:
Measure 1 to 1 ½ cups of liquid per person, combining any of the following:
Almond milk (or pecan, walnut, Brazil nut, pumpkin, sesame or sunflower seed milk)
Rice milk
Oat milk
Hazelnut milk
Amasake
Fruit juices may not be ideal in northern climates. You may want to use ½ water and ½ juice.

The Green (and other) Powders:
Add ¼ tsp to 1 TBSP of a combination of any of the following:
Spirulina (chlorella or other algae powder)
Nutritional yeast (or brewer’s yeast)
Hemp protein powder (rice or whey protein powder)
Fiber Smart, Triple Fiber or Organic Bowel Cleanse (Renew Life) or other seed based, non-psyllium natural fiber product
Hemp seed (or flax seed, fresh ground)
Sweet whey powder (Bernard Jensen’s) or Capra Mineral Whey (Mt. Capra)
Fresh or powdered herbs (nettles, red clover, milk thistle, cinnamon, etc.)
Berry Green (New Chapter)
Kamut, wheat or barley grass powder, (or other pure greens, no isolated nutrients)

Health & Flavor Enhancers:
Then add any of the following:
2-4 TBSP Organic plain whole milk yogurt or kefir
1 TBSP nut butter: almond, cashew, sunflower or tahini (Tohum)
2 tsp raw honey, agave nectar, goji juice or mulberry syrup (Tohum)
½ -2 TBSP hemp (Nutiva), rice bran, flax, pumpkin seed oil
1-2 tsp Ginger Wonder Syrup (New Chapter)
½ - 2 tsp Chyawanprash rejuvenative paste (Nature’s Formulary)
2 TBSP blueberries or other organic fresh or frozen fruit
½ or 1 ripe banana
¼- ½ tsp Any desired tinctures or mushroom extracts
handful fresh sprouts
¼- ½ tsp vanilla extract, (or almond, peppermint, cinnamon or other flavoring)
¼- ½ tsp rose water (or orange or lavender water)

A little note regarding bee products:
Many people enjoy using bee pollen or royal jelly in energy drinks, but I discourage their use, as too many bee hives are becoming weaker each year due to excessive harvest of the bee products and replacement with sugar water, medication, etc. We need healthy bees in order to have healthy plants, so let’s give the bees a break and choose to use the many potent plants instead.

The Carnival of Healing is a collection of articles and thoughts found on blogs and websites from around the globe on topics of holistic health, wellness, spirituality, and self empowerment. It is once again being hosted here at Wisdom of Healing. I wish you well and hope that you enjoy the journey. Here we go…

Aaaaaaah, water; from which all life comes forth. Golbguru gives us 10 Health Reasons Why You Should Drink More Water. You will find this post at the amazing site The Tao of Good Health. I think I’ll go drink a sparkling, delicious glass of water right now!

Kendra suggests that Insurance Coverage for Doula Services is an idea whose time is now! And we are the change, through our conversations and action. Check out more at vbacadventure.com.

Speaking from a very personal place, Raymond David Salas explores the freedom to be found in The Power of Letting Go. You will find it at ZenChill.com Power Tools Blog.

If you are drawn to many interests, love learning new things, and want to do everything you love all at once, you might be a ’scanner’. This post introduces valuable resources and success strategies especially for people who may be scanners. Refuse to Choose - Success Strategies for Scanners, written by Hueina, is posted at her delightful site, Intensive Care for the Nurturer’s Soul. I can say honestly that I fit this concept rather nicely.

My contribution this week is My Introduction to Healing Herbs, which tells the brief story of my first miracle with alternative healing and herbs. I’ve had dozens since! It may be found right here at Wisdom of Healing.

Megan Bayliss exposes her soul as she puts out a call to action for her own life and the well-being of the future generation. Although the title is a bit intense, I can understand the message well. Smoking is Child Abuse posted at Imaginif…. If you’re interested in a natural way to becoming smoke-free, I’ve written about a tried and true method that several folks have used with success called Quit Smoking for Good.

Karen Halls suggests something that approximately two thirds of Americans and millions of other world citizens may want to consider. Weight Loss Without Cravings And No Diet offers tools to get to the core of the issue of being overweight (and often underweight, too). You’ll find it posted at Addiction Recovery Blog.

Linda Martin offers us a very powerful healing tool that may be used virtually anywhere and anytime for physical, emotional and psychic wellness. Check out Chakra Healing Using Spheres of Energy, found at Geniyyah Energy Healing. Thank you, Linda.

I love everything I’ve read from Craig Harper! Here’s a guy with a good attitude, if there ever was one (and he’s so adorable, too)! I’ll bet you’re going to enjoy You’re Not the Boss of Me. posted at Motivational Speaker, too.

Tracee Sioux makes some strong points for moms of daughters to consider in Second Generation Mean Girl posted at So Sioux Me. I hope that there wil be more conversations between moms and daughters, moms and other moms, and moms with school boards to address this important concern. I feel blessed to have two wonderful young adult daughters with a good and compassionate set of values and a consciousness of how all that we say and do affects the whole. Thank you, Tracee.

therapydoc presents her ideas to all the new therapy docs recently graduated from school and ready to begin practice. Alcohol and Your Therapy Doc may be found posted at Everyone Needs Therapy.

Albert helps us to determine the differences between listening to the voice of intuition and listening to all the other forces at work in situations both big and small. The most dangerous mistake in tapping your intuition is found at Urban Monk.

Patricia suggests that Being Honest With Yourself is the first giant step in making things better. Find this article posted at A Better You Blog.

Aparna provides us with an idea to take off those few nagging pounds that are making our clothing feel snug. Lose weight by reading sensational novels is posted at Beauty and Personality Grooming.

Kate Carvalho offers insights as to how we can be Remaining sane in the 21st Century, found at Radio Sri Chinmoy Blog.

Brandon Peele has been inspired by the writings and philosophy of Richard Rose, offering us Psychology of the Observer Book Review posted at Generative Transformation.

I hope you’ve enjoyed the carnival! Check these links to access the Carnival of Healing archives, last week’s carnival found at OptimistLab or next week’s carnival to be held at Becomin Your StellarSelf.

For the first time, I will be hosting the “Healthy and Fit Family” carnival this month, and it is full of interesting, and sometimes tasty, little gems for those of us who choose to make a vibrant contribution to the next generation’s well-being. Enjoy!

Stephanie suggests that Family Fun on the Water may be an ideal way for anyone and everyone to stay in shape while having lots of fun! You don’t need a pool or the ocean nearby; just a few towels and swimwear and off you go. This post may be found at Time for Exercise.

The Great Doula Search, found at vbac adventure provides us with Kendra’s personal story as she readies her family for a blessed addition. Afterall; family health begins with a happy and healthy entry into the world. And one of the best ways to give birth to your baby is with the help of a loving doula.

An extremely well researched piece by Expat Chef, A Childhood Nutrition Series: Complete Index is a nine-part series covering the childhood obesity epidemic, food marketing to kids, and what parents can do about it. I especially enjoyed the chapter on solutions, and look forward to much more on the topic.

Wild Greens is as delightful little post on one of my most favorite topics and activities to do with children (and grown-ups, too) of all ages. Greens, especially wild ones, provide us with some of the most easily digested and utilized calcium, magnesium, iron, vitamins, (other) minerals and phytonutrients available. And it’s a lot of fun! Try putting a handful in your salad, omlette or quiche. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, try Stephanie’s recipe, substituting sauteed tempeh pieces for the bacon. Yum!

My contribution this month is a bit of welcome information for most families. Just Say NO to Mosquitoes helps folks to understand how we can safely keep the biting little pests off our loved ones without the use of potentially dangerous chemicals. Aaaaah; I can hear your sighs of relief from here!

Common sense coupled with thriftiness; this post is about adults, but introducing these habits for the whole family sounds like a great way for everyone to be healthy. 12 Cheap Ways To Keep Fit And Stay Healthy offers a sound approach and good information.

Who’d have thought that Dirt is good for your child? Here are some of the research links to prove that it’s true. Today, just tell the kids, “Go play in the dirt!”

Get this; cows are being bred to produce low-fat milk! What’ll they think of next? Meet Marge: The World’s First NonFat Dairy Cow tells us of this lone dairy cow (and her daughters) from New Zealand and the possibilities she possesses.

Exercise should be intergenerational. Resistance training can make Grandma’s and Grandpa’s, and even our own, muscles youthful again. Resistance Training Reverses Aging will tell us how!

And even the smallest babies can enjoy a good walk in nature. Check out the great photos in Hiking in the Marsh on Sunday. Happy baby!

Submissions may be sent for the “13th Healthy & Fit Family” carnival, to be hosted at Babylune on July 3rd, and you may enjoy the Healthy and Fit Family archives, as well.

Enjoy the family life and please be well!

I guess my very earliest introduction was when I was very young, maybe when I was five or six years old. Our elder neighbor, Mr. Vachon, a master gardener taught my Dad, siblings and me about the importance of organic gardening, far before its emerging popularity.

As a retired widower, Mr. Vachon spent much of his time outdoors and in his small greenhouse growing flowers and vegetables. He was the first one to tell me that we could eat some of the weeds that we pull out of our gardens. He often put them in his sandwich. He also showed me how we could nibble on specific tiny spring leaves and flowers. He said that they were believed to be very good for us, and I always believed everything this very wise man told me.

My paternal Grandmother also shared little tidbits about herbs and their healing abilities. Trained as a nurse, it felt to me that she downplayed this ancient wisdom. But she firmly believed that the scent or sight of flowers soothed the emotions and strengthened the nervous system. And she talked to me about the beliefs of Native Americans more than once, hinting that this information had real merit.

But my greatest early teacher was my Great Aunt Merle. She was diagnosed with Type One Diabetes at an early age. Although she suffered with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA), it was not yet recognized as a real condition in the medical community. She found that the information given to her by her allopathic doctors often seemed to cause her body more pain and discomfort, leading to worsening her conditions and increased her need for medication. Examples were when she was told to always carry sugary candy bars in her purse to eat if her blood sugar dropped, but she was told to never eat carrots, parsnips, beets and most other root vegetables.

Aunt Merle began to go to some of the early alternative health practitioners, often traveling long distances to do so. The family called them ‘the quacks’, but for Aunt Merle, they were true healers and real health providers.

The alternative medical community recognized JRA long before their conservative counterparts got on board with the idea. Their information provided her with a better understanding of her conditions, and their recommendations seemed to help her health and energy levels. She often shared their insights with me, since I seemed to have similar health concerns.

Then when I was fourteen, I sprained my right ankle. Within the following six months, I had sprained it three more times; each time it became progressively more painful and took longer for me to recover. Then, about three months later, I sprained my left ankle. I needed to walk with crutches off and on for more than nine months.

I was very interested in three dimensional art, creating many sculptures and functional art during my teenage years. My friend, Dee, and I went to the art supply store nearly every Wednesday to stock up on the following week’s clay, plaster, string, dyes or whatever we were in need of for our current projects.

Next door to our favorite art supply store was a very well stocked little health food store. We would stop in there each week after the art store for some delicious, healthy snack foods to enjoy during the following week.

On the Wednesday trip to the health food store that followed my spraining of my left ankle, I limped in on crutches. One of the clerks behind the counter looked me up and down and said, “How are you today? Not so good by the looks of things. You’ve been hobbling in here a lot lately.”

I told her of my recent troubles with spraining my right ankle four times within six months, and how I had just sprained my left ankle a couple of days before. She asked, “Do you know about comfrey tea?” I shook my head ‘no’. “There’s nothing better for our bones than comfrey,” she continued. She motioned with her hand. “Follow me”, she urged.

As we walked, I remember thinking, ‘What is she talking about? Isn’t there only black tea and peppermint tea?’ I had no idea that there were any other teas at that time. I followed her into the back room where there were dozens of gallon and half gallon jars containing dried roots, leaves, barks and seeds, labeled with green or black calligraphy. The room smelled wonderful.

She led me to the third row of shelving where she lifted a jar labeled ‘Comfrey Root - local’ down from the top shelf and placed it onto the counter. As she poured some of the contents into a small sandwich bag, she told me how to make an herbal tea from roots. She told me to place two tablespoons of the comfrey root into a stainless steel or glass pan with a quart of water and cover. She said that I should bring it to a slow boil, and simmer the tea for about twenty or thirty minutes, then let it cool for a half hour or so and sip three to four cups each day, warm or cool, until my ankle was completely better. My left ankle was very sore, so I figured ‘what do I have to lose?’

When I arrived home that afternoon, I began to make my very first herbal decoction (a simmered herbal tea, usually made with roots or barks). My mother commented that the whole house stunk, but I thought it smelled wonderful; earthy and green.

When my comfrey tea was ready to drink, I tasted my first cup. Although I wasn’t fond of the flavor, I was somehow attracted to it anyway. I sipped the first two cups while it was still warm, and then I had a third cup a few hours later after it had cooled off.

In the morning, when I woke up, I couldn’t believe it. There was absolutely no pain left in my ankle! I stepped down on it again turning a bit as I did, and still no pain! I went downstairs and drank down the last cup of cold comfrey tea that I had made up the night before. I danced about the kitchen, smiling and shrieking that my ankle felt better! Those crutches were history!

I became a great fan of the powerful abilities of comfrey on that day, and have at least 100 more comfrey stories that I hope to get to share someday. Comfrey has been used by millions over the centuries, and was nicknamed ‘knit-bone’ for its healing properties. I have used it ever since, in a wide variety of ways, and I guess I always will.

Now, I have to tell you that I cannot urge you to drink comfrey tea, however. A few years after that glorious day, some foolish young ladies were experimenting with herbs, drugs and alcohol. One of the herbs they were using at the time was comfrey. They all developed serious kidney problems. The FDA outlawed the use of comfrey taken orally, due to this unfortunate incident. Although I do not agree with this decision, I also cannot jeopardize my freedom by suggesting that it is safe, and recommending its use.

We can, however, use comfrey homeopathically or topically in salve, oil or tincture form. Homeopathic comfrey is called by its Latin name, Symphytum Officinale. If you or a loved one chooses to use the homeopathic form, just follow the directions on the tube for a few days, taking a break for a few days, and then evaluate whether you may need a few days more.

In salve form, please look for the Herb Pharm easy to travel tin called Herbal Ed’s Salve or the Gaia Comfrey Compounded Salve. You may apply these as desired to the regions where your bones or joints needing strengthening. These products have no known side effects. To your bone health!

Have you continued to use DEET-based (N, N-diethyl m-toluamide) insect repellents because you thought that it was the only thing that can really prevent mosquito and black fly bites? The good news is that it looks like we may finally have other serious options.

‘So, what’s the problem with DEET?’ you ask. Both the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the American Academy of Pediatrics have recently implied that DEET may not be as safe once thought.

The EPA website states:
“As long as consumers follow label directions and take proper precautions, insect repellents containing DEET do not present a health concern. Human exposure is expected to be brief, and long-term exposure is not expected.”

Brief? Where do you suppose those people live, anyway?

The EPA report also requires manufacturers to remove any child safety claims from products sold with low levels of DEET.
“The scientific data on DEET does not support product label claims of child safety based on the percentage of active ingredient.”

And products that contain both DEET and sunscreen may be a more significant concern for us,
“since directions to reapply sunscreens generously and frequently may promote greater use of DEET than needed for pesticidal efficacy and thus pose unnecessary exposure to DEET.”

Now,the American Association of Pediatrics still recommends the use of DEET to repel mosquitoes and prevent disease; as long as you adhere to the following precautions:
• In formulations of less than 10 percent.
• Applied sparingly, according to product label instructions.
• Only to exposed skin, and not to a child’ face, hands or skin that is irritated or abraded.
• After the child returns indoors, treated skin should be washed thoroughly with soap and water.

Now that’s not exactly what one might call a glowing endorsement!

Prevention is an excellent avenue for mosquito bite control. The following suggestions may help:

• Wear long sleeves, long pants or slacks, and long socks when outdoors if weather permits.
• Reduce or eliminate mosquito breeding locations. Empty any standing water around your house, including toys, containers, flower pots, drainage ditches, tires, etc.
• Change water in bird baths and splash pools every two to three days.
• Replace or repair all screens. Even a small tear can let a tiny hungry mosquito into your home.

Now, let’s get back to the good news that I mentioned earlier.

There are several botanical essential oils that may be found in ‘natural’ bug dope products. One is now FDA approved. Another should be. The rest may work a little bit, but I wouldn’t want to rely on some of them out in the deep woods, (and I’ve tried).

A couple of products containing lemon eucalyptus essential oil [researchers identify the active ingredient as: p-menthane 3,8-diol (PMD)], are now registered with the EPA. In two recent scientific publications, oil of lemon eucalyptus was tested against mosquitoes here in the US. It was shown to provide protection similar to repellents with low concentrations of DEET.

Another potential solution is neem. For centuries, people in Asia have used neem to keep mosquitoes away from their rice fields, crops, villages, homes and themselves. The US National Institutes of Health (NIH)’s database, includes a 1993 article from the Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association:
“Two percent neem oil mixed in coconut oil, when applied to the exposed body parts of human volunteers, provided complete protection for 12 hrs from the bites of all anopheline (mosquitoes that carry malaria) species. Application of neem oil is safe and can be used for protection from malaria in endemic countries.”

Neem is also shown to be helpful for dry, cracked skin, rashes, acne, psoriasis and eczema, so those with sensitive or problem skin will have a safer option to choose.

A report from the National Research Council, published by the National Academy Press, stated that neem
“deters certain biting insects more effectively than the synthetic chemical called DEET”.

But what is neem and is it truly safe?

Neem oil is pressed from the leaves of the Neem tree. The Neem tree is indigenous to India and Sri Lanka. The Indian people have revered every part of the neem tree for countless generations. Early writings of neem’s curative powers date back to 5,000 years ago. It has been used for countless conditions and has come to be known as “the village pharmacy”. There have never been any reports of side effects.

Neem has been used since antiquity as an insect repellent for people, their homes and food crops. Researchers have found that neem prevents mosquitoes from landing on us for up to twelve hours and may also keep ticks, biting flies and sand fleas from bothering us, as well. Several compounds in neem have been shown to be more effective insect repellents than DEET, and are probably much safer, too.

Organix South out of Florida has a great product called the Herbal Outdoor Spray containing high quality neem oil, along with some lemony essential oils. It goes on easily, smells great and seems to really keep the bugs away! It’s not allowed to be called a mosquito repellent, but it certainly acts like one! They also make Neem Oil for the Garden, and just like it sounds, it keeps pests from getting to your crops before you do. They also provide us with the only certified organic neem oil in the US (and they’re available in other parts of the world, too.)

I met a guy last week whose dog comes in with numerous ticks just about every day, nine months a year. When he uses the neem oil on her coat before she goes out, she returns tick-free. (See the spray recipe below.)

It would only make sense to replace potentially harmful chemical pesticides, repellents and fertilizers with health promoting botanical products. When we protect our environment, we improve our own health and that of all life on Earth. Neem has been used to keep the lawn, garden and plants healthy, all the while enhancing flower production and crop yields.

Eating raw garlic or taking a garlic supplement with the oils intact has been believed to prevent mosquitoes from landing on people or pets. The only garlic supplement that I use is Garlicforce from New Chapter; potent, powerful and I don’t smell like garlic because of the digestive herbs inside. Garlic is also believed to prevent fleas on people and pets. (Garlic powder, by the way, doesn’t work.)

Plant calendula, marigolds, lavender and mint around your yard. Biting insects don’t like them, so fewer will hang around.

Other essential oils used over the years to repel biting insects include:
Clove
Thyme
Cedar
Citronella
Lemon balm
Rose geranium
Pennyroyal
Lemongrass
Eucalyptus
Peppermint
Tea tree
Lavender

These essential oils may be added to high quality carrier oils, including almond, sesame, coconut, avocado or jojoba. Add 15-30 drops of a single or combination of the essential oils per tablespoon of carrier oil. If you use Oshadhi oils, you may only need 8-15 drops per TBSP.

To make a spray:
Fill an 8 oz spray bottle with the following:
5 oz purified water or witch hazel
2 oz aloe vera gel
Add 20-30 (or more) drops of neem or lemon eucalyptus oil.
150 drops of the essential oils listed above, if desired.
Shake well. Spray on and rub into exposed skin.

Maybe this year, you and your loved ones will finally be mosquito free and you’ll get to feel really good about it!

Always entertaining and inspirational, Craig Harper’s post this week begins ‘If you’re like many, then some days your mind is a war zone. Complete with the good guys (Mr glass-half-full) and the bad guys (Mr stay-in-bed-you-loser) fighting for your attention; your thoughts. Competing for valuable territory on your cerebral landscape…’ Read more of War of the Mind posted at Motivational Speaker. Enjoy!

It’s not easy on the body, mind and spirit to keep abreast of world news and the chronic violence in our communities. Raymond David Salas offers us a sensible approach to making it through the upheaval of emotions in How to Overcome Tragedy posted on his fine blog ZenChill.com Power Tools Blog.

Debra Moorhead writes an impressive list of tools for living life to the fullest. 7 Ways to be Happier and More Fulfilled in Everything You Do may be found at Debra Moorhead.com. Debra’s blog is an amazing gem; I urge you to have a little fun exploring it as soon as you can!

JoLynn Braley educates us about one of the most widely used ingredients found in most junk food on the market today that may well be contributing to the poor health of kids and adults alike. Please read these important facts in her well researched article What Is High Fructose Corn Syrup, and Why Is It So Bad For My Body? This article provides us with some background on high fructose corn syrup and why it can be detrimental to our weight and health. You’ll find it posted at The Fit Shack.

John Hill offers us Overcoming Shyness, which could also be called ‘Yet Another Reason to Smile’. Smiling is something we all can do to help stay happy and healthy. Find this and other introspective writings posted at Universe Of Success.

This week, my contribution is called Sleepless in Your Hometown found right here at Wisdom of Healing. Americans are a tired bunch these days, and safe, useful information about herbs and foods traditionally used for increasing deep and restful sleep may be helpful for millions of exhausted people, young and mature.

Speaking from her heart and her own experience, Christine Kane brings us Taking Action Makes you Happier. Here’s Why. Find this and other well written posts on a variety of tempting topics at Christine Kane’s Blog.

Patricia urges us to be aware and present so as to Make the Most of Every Moment: Lessons from the Terminal Illness That Wasn’t, found posted at A Better You Blog.

Aparna has suggestions that many young women may benefit from. Home Remedies for Delayed Periods has several safe and simple solutions for any woman to try. Find this and dozens of other excellent articles posted at Beauty and Personality Grooming.

Lexi Sundell brings us the important news on our small but important victory after the FDA’s outrageous attempt to erode our personal choice in alternative health modalities and use of food supplements. Freedom of Choice in Food Supplements Update is posted at Energies of Creation.
To continue to stay informed about the big pharma’s attempt to limit our access to holistic health approaches to wellness, please visit Democracy in Action. Send an e-letter and let your congresspeople know how important this choice is to you.

Although I usually skip newsletters in the carnivals, this one is certainly worth sharing with you. Boyd Martin offers us well-tested, scientifically sound techniques we can apply on ourselves to reduce pain, eliminate worry, restore equilibrium and bring back that natural state of well-being. Read and enjoy The Four Techniques, posted at Vibrant Living Newsletter Blog.

Vera Nadine provides a convincing case for recognizing and preventing Spiritual Hermit Syndrome, found posted at Vera Nadine - Discovering true hope through the magic of spirit.

David Maxwell presents a brief statement on taking supplemental Calcium, posted at Medical Health. Personally, I’m a big fan of the use of nourishing organic whole foods and herbs to get the nutrients needed by the body, just as the generations before us did.

Andrew presents us with his reasoning for adopting a vegan diet to prevent obesity and disease in Lifecrafting · Meat Part II: How It’s Layering You With Fat And Giving You Diabetes. You’ll find it posted at Lifecrafting.

Last week’s Carnival of Healing is found at Chakracises Blog, and you will find the Carnival of Healing will be up on May 19th at the fantastic change therapy. Enjoy your life!