Fear

Dealing With Fear At the Source
by Jonathan on December 8, 2009


Have you ever wondered where fear comes from? Most people feel some sort of fear on a regular basis, but it’s rare that anyone questions the source of that fear. Since fear wears so many different faces, is it possible for all fear to come from the same source?

Before we look at the actual source of fear, let’s talk about three of the more common broad categories of fear. I think you will find that most fears fit into one of these general categories:

Impending danger. This is the fear associated with the “fight or flight” response. Much of what happens in the face of impending danger is automatic. That doesn’t mean that we all respond the same way, not by a long shot. Just that our response in the face of real impending danger is usually dictated by our own unique emotional reflex. Some will feel paralyzed by the fear, while others will take flight. But whatever the response, it tends to be automatic.

Unexpected tragedy or loss. When we are forced to face unpleasant situations, it can easily trigger feelings of fear. This often happens in the face of loss or tragedy. It might be the loss of a job, a loved one, or an opportunity we were depending on. It could also be a serious disease or accident. Whenever circumstances take an unexpected and unwelcome turn, we can easily see things in a fearful light.

Uncertainty, the what if syndrome. This is the broadest category and it includes many of the most common types of fear. For example: fear of failure, fear of loss (not the same as actual loss), fear of rejection, fear of embarrassment, fear of loneliness, fear of disease, and so on. This category is unique because none of the huge variety of fears included in it are based on existing realities. Instead, they are the result of dwelling on a possible negative outcome. They are all based on an imaginary “what if.”

A common source?
Realizing that fears come in such a wide variety, it might seem unlikely that they could all stem from on e common source. Especially considering that some are based on real situations, while others are nothing more than figments of our imaginations.

Well, as unlikely as it might seem, all fear is based on one core emotion. In fact, it is the granddaddy of all human emotions. What is it? It is the inherent and insatiable desire to feel safe and secure. Anything that threatens that sense of security creates feelings of insecurity, and all fear is based on insecurity.

Real or imagined, it doesn’t matter
Let’s go back and identify how insecurity is involved in our three categories of fear. When it comes to impending danger, on an emotional level we feel like our very existence is being threatened. The “impending” aspect means there is a strong sense of urgency involved. This is why we tend to react automatically. It’s programmed into our survival instinct. Our sense of security is directly linked to our survival instinct on the deepest level.

Tragedy and loss rock the very foundations of our world. Our sense of security is deeply rooted in our physical wellbeing and our close relationships with loved ones. Any threat or loss in these areas triggers a corresponding sense of insecurity.

Uncertainty has a different relationship with our sense of security than the other two categories. Fears included in this category are an expression of an existing sense of insecurity that is being projected into the future. If you want to reduce the level of fear in your life, this is the place to start.

Dealing with the “what if syndrome”
Changing the way we deal with impending danger or tragedy is very involved. These are either major emotional events that involve a healing process, or sudden, unexpected situations. However, most of the crippling effects of fear that limit people on a daily basis fall under the heading of uncertainty.

There are an almost limitless host of emotional conditions that depend on the what if syndrome for their existence. Anxiety is one of the more prevalent. Even depression is often based on a sense of hopelessness about the future. Changing the emotional anchors we attach to our perception of the future can work wonders.

Negative thoughts produce negative results
What if syndrome is a negative mindset being expressed in a future tense. Since the mind is only creative, this is an extremely dangerous way to project your energy. It can easily become a self-fulfilling prophecy.

This is true even if your thoughts are something like “I hope I don’t… (lose my job, get cancer, spend the rest of my life alone,etc).” What you are really projecting is “I’m afraid I might…” So, right away your creative mind goes to work looking for a way to manifest the very result you are fearful of.

Change your focus, change your outcome
The obvious solution here is to stop projecting fear into your future. I suggest a twofold approach. First, you need to shift your focus in a more productive direction. Additionally, it’s a good idea to identify things that encourage feelings of insecurity and eliminate them from your life. This second step can have a huge impact on your overall outlook.

Replace negativity with curiosity
What’s so great about curiosity? Several things! It allows for many possibilities without trying to dictate or force an outcome. Curiosity is almost emotionally neutral, leaning slightly to the positive. And curiosity is inquisitive instead of judgmental.

The ability to view life as a journey is greatly enhanced by a curious nature. This mindset allows life to unfold naturally. Once we are comfortable with the unfolding nature of life, we begin to feel secure in the process. Change becomes something to embrace, rather than something to fear.

Reduce your exposure to negative input
What do you gain by watching distorted sensationalism on the nightly news? How is your outlook improved by long conversations that focus on problems you can’t do anything about? How does listening to chronic complainers and fault finders help you adopt a less fearful mindset?

Constant exposure to these things will only make you feel less secure about your life and your future, why go there? I’m not suggesting that you hide your head in the sand. I am simply saying that being bombarded by negativity will increase your feelings of insecurity and fear.

Get over the “what if syndrome”
Most of the things people tend to worry about never happen. And, even if they do, worrying about them never helps. It just robs you of your joy and fills you with fear. Truth is, most fear is nothing more than a figment of our imaginations. It’s an expression of insecurity based on pointless speculation.

In other words, most of the time “there is nothing to fear but fear itself.” Do yourself a giant favor, let it go!

www.learnnaturalhealthonline.com

Introduction to Natural Health and Healing
www.learnnaturalhealthonline.com
http://AlternativeHealingCourse.blogspot.com
This online course introduces you to the principles of natural healing. We will discuss the various stages of health and illness. You will begin to understand that true health means wholeness of the mind, body and spirit. You will begin a personal health journal to self-evaluate your current lifestyle. Throughout the course, you will be able to observe how your behaviors can affect your health.
You continue your understanding that physical, emotional, and spiritual factors make up your whole being. You will learn that you handle these three sectors can determine our stress levels and healing rates. You will begin to take charge of your health and healing. We discuss what to expect when going to a Natural Health Therapist.
Natural Health and Healing
Attention Natural Health enthusiasts! Are you interested in learning more about natural health, but don't know where to start? Are you trying to improve your and your family's health naturally? This is the course for you.

Lesson 1 - This lesson introduces you to the principles of natural healing. We will discuss the various stages of health and illness. You will begin to understand that true health means wholeness of the mind, body and spirit. You will begin a personal health journal to self-evaluate your current lifestyle. Throughout the course, you will be able to observe how your behaviors can affect your health.

Lesson 2 - Naturopathy is introduced in this lesson. You will learn that the basic philosophy of Naturopathy seeks ways for the body to heal itself. You will learn about proper breathing techniques that enhance health. You will learn the values of hydrotherapy, diet, biorhythms and fasting.

Lesson 3 - We will explore ways of using the power of the mind and the placebo effect. You will begin to understand the power that the mind can have in healing the body. We will learn about brain function tests, visualization, and relaxation therapies. We will discover the power of belief.

Lesson 4 - This lesson will teach you to look at nutrition and it healing effects. We explore basic nutrients, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and free radicals. You will learn basic requirements needed to promote a healthy diet. You will be able to develop menus to improve health.

Lesson 5 - In this lesson, we will briefly explore the history of herbal healing. You will have the opportunity to identify the most popular herbs and learn ways to prepare herbal mixtures. You will have access to herbal charts to help you to understand herbal remedies.

Lesson 6 - Today we will explore Aromatherapy. You will not only learn about the benefits of Aromatherapy, but you will also learn how to blend oils for medicinal uses. You will discover how to make and use poultices, compresses, tinctures, and infusions. Essential oil charts are included to help you create wonderful blends.

Lesson 7 - You will soon discover the wonders of Body Therapies. You will learn about many therapies and their benefits. We discuss massage techniques, osteopathy, chiropractic, and T'ai Chi, Reflexology and yoga. You will discover the main theme of body therapies is to regain and maintain balance and well being.

Lesson 8 - Today you will learn about natural energy fields. You will learn how energy can be manipulated to include using magnets, TENS, Feng Shui and Therapeutic Touch. You will learn how to center your consciousness, and have the opportunity to try energy modulation. You will learn how to feel your own energy between your hands!

Lesson 9 - In this lesson you will be able to identify pollutants in your environment. We discuss indoor pollutants, and ways to clean indoor air. We discuss drinking water purification systems and allergy testing methods. You will gain an understanding of the relationship between your immune system and the health of your surroundings. Many pollutant charts included for reference.

Lesson 10 - Today you will discover how to use natural remedies for common emergencies, illnesses and injuries. Some of the topics discussed include cuts, bruises, fractures, burns, breathing emergencies, fainting and travel illnesses.

Lesson 11 - You will begin to understand the effect that light, color and music can have on mood and behavior. You will learn methods of healing and relaxing by practical applications of these therapies. You will be able to use energies that are inherent in light, color and sound to improve your overall well being. We discuss using chakras and colored light in healing.

Lesson 12 - You continue your understanding that physical, emotional, and spiritual factors make up your whole being. You will begin to understand that how you handle these three sectors can determine our stress levels and healing rates. You will begin to take charge of your health and healing. We discuss what to expect when going to a Natural Health Therapist.

law of attraction

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Saturday
Jan032009
Is There A Real Law Of Attraction?
Saturday, January 3, 2009 at 10:13AM
Is there really a Law of Attraction in the Universe? The movie the Secret and the writings of Abraham-Hicks have brought this idea of a law into our awareness over the last few years. We know gravity is a law because we have tried and proved it. Is the Law of Attraction something we can try and prove or disprove? Of course it is.

The challenge of this law however is that it is complicated because it means consciously directing our thoughts and emotions toward a level of vibration that will attract what we want. I don’t know about your experience of directing your thoughts, but my experiences tell me that this can be a challenge.

Let’s do an experiment for the next 30 days and see how this Law of Attraction (LOA) can work for us. Choose something that you want to attract into your life. It could be: more money, a loving relationship, your ideal body weight, a job you like, peace of mind, or whatever would make you feel good. Here are the guidelines for the experiment:
• You have to use your mind to imagine and feel what it would be like to have what you want in your life now. It needs to feel real to you.
• You must avoid thoughts and feeling that would indicate that you lack what you want. Lack only attracts more lack.
• You can think that you are beginning to feel what it feels like to live your life with what you want in it. It can feel uplifting to have what you want.
• You can enjoy life and feel the relief of moving towards what you want. If you can imagine it you can make it happen.
• You need to take time each day to visualize what you want and visualize or sense the vibrations necessary to attract this desire. When you wake up, before you go to sleep, and throughout the day are good times to visualize/sense.
• You must do your best not to make this an effort. This is not about doing something effortful but rather effortlessly.
• You need to have an open heart in this experiment. An open heart is part of the vibration of attraction.
• You also must engage your spirit, your higher power, your connection to the source of the universe. This spirit in you is more powerful than your ego/personality, which should not be involved in the attraction.
• You can do this best if you enjoy what you are doing. Make this fun and do it lightly with joy as a powerful vibration in you.

Yes I know this is a challenging list but I know you can do it. Please remember that being effortless in your effort is important here. Let your thoughts come into alignment, your heart make you joyous and your spirit expand your consciousness and very soon you will see results if this Law of Attraction is truly a law you and I can live by.

insomnia

Natural Solutions for Insomnia
By Dr. Casey Adams on 01/12/2009
Every night 5% to 10% of us wrestle with problems like this, usually followed by an inability to stay awake and alert the next day. Pharmaceutical options may seem easy, but they also come with side effects and the risk of dependency.

Fortunately humans have been sleeping soundly for thousands of years, long before pharmaceuticals came onto the scene. This means nature offers a wide range of safe and simple strategies to help us achieve sound sleep night after night.

Sleep Basics

There are two general types: NREM (non-rapid eye-movement) and REM or (rapid-eye-movement) sleep. NREM prevails, especially in the beginning, while precious REM stage sleep increases with each cycle. A full night’s sleep typically stacks four about-ninety minute cycles of increasingly deeper sleep. REM sleep is critical to mental and physical well-being, as it facilitates healing processes and memory consolidation. A complete four-cycle night’s sleep gives us that magic six-to-eight hour envelope research has linked to longer and healthier lives.

Our body clocks are not irreversibly ‘set’ to be “evening people” or “morning people.” In a recent study of 1572 children from 4th to 8th grades, those claiming to be “evening people” simply drank more coffee, had less parental monitoring, had more environmental disturbances, and tended to be older than did self-determined “morning people.”

Biochemical Rhythms

Sleep is an intrinsic biorhythm, and our bodies secrete biochemicals periodically to stimulate energy and relaxation alternatively. Four decades of sleep research confirms that sleep directly relates to environmental rhythms of light, diet, mood, body temperature, activity, and stress. When light strikes the pineal gland first thing in the morning, it stimulates biochemicals that either orchestrate relaxation (namely melatonin, serotonin, dopamine and GABA), or drive heightened activity and alertness (cortisol, adrenaline, thyroxine and insulin). Melatonin is the central sleep biochemical, while cortisol is pivotal for our active cycles. Melatonin levels rise slowly after nightfall, peaking around midnight, and falling thereafter. As melatonin rises, core temperature drops and metabolism slows. Melatonin levels fall to a low point at about three a.m., just as cortisol levels begin to rise in anticipation of our body’s awakening. During the day, cortisol levels rise and fall through the afternoon and early evening, ushering melatonin’s slow rise after dark. Supporting melatonin’s functions are serotonin, dopamine and GABA—biochemicals that help relax the body and nerves, and help us submerge into the depths of sleep. As these biochemical messengers connect with receptors lying on cell membranes, the cells slow down and cool off.

Melatonin levels slow with age. Reduced melatonin is tied not only to insomnia, but also to a number of degenerative diseases including cancer and arthritis. This means that higher melatonin levels are critical to the body’s well-being. We might conclude that supplemental melatonin is the solution. Not so fast, Sherlock. Recent studies have confirmed that endogenous (produced by the body) melatonin is necessary for falling asleep, but exogenous (supplemental—not produced by the body) melatonin is not much better than placebo—although it can sometimes help in delayed sleep phase syndrome. Indeed, like other non-bioidentical hormone replacement, the long-term safety of exogenous melatonin use remains unclear.

Sleepy Foods

A number of foods stimulate the body to produce these biochemicals, and thus promote sleep. Foods containing the amino acid L-trytophan are used by the body to produce serotonin, a hormone that promotes positive moods and relaxation. Serotonin also happens to convert to melatonin. Foods that contain tryptophan include milk, cheese, whole grains, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, soy foods, cottage cheese, cooked beans, rice, peanuts, hazelnuts, spinach, pumpkin seeds, wheat germ and encourage insulin release by reducing amino acids in the bloodstream competitive to tryptophan. Calcium-containing foods increase conversion of tryptophan to serotonin and melatonin.

Eating tryptophan-rich foods early in the day can dramatically affect sleep quality. In a randomized study of seventeen healthy adults, a lack of dietary tryptophan during the mid-morning caused a drop of 71% serum serotonin at three p.m. and a 44% drop at nine p.m., resulting in falling asleep an average of 26 minutes later, and a 58% increase in waking episodes during the night.

A number of foods also contain phytomelatonin, which increases endogenous melatonin. Montmorency tart cherries have some of the highest levels, along with oats, sweet corn, rice, ginger, tomatoes, bananas and barley.

Nutrients that help maintain proper levels of serotonin and melatonin include B vitamins, calcium and magnesium. A calcium/magnesium supplement prior to bedtime has been known to almost immediately relax the body. Magnesium deficiency, on the other hand, stimulates brain neurons—increasing our tendency to overthink things when we should be sleeping. Magnesium-rich foods include bananas, barley, milk, oats and beans.

Foods and drinks that disturb sleep include refined sugar and carbohydrates, chocolate, coffee, black tea, carbonated drinks, and eating too much too late. Caffeine takes several hours to clear the bloodstream so should not be taken in the evening. Despite alcohol being a central nervous system depressant, it can cause rebound insomnia.

Herbs to Sleep By

A number of well-researched herbs effectively promote sleep. Research has shown that the phytonutrients in these plants work variously to stimulate particular biochemicals and receptors, soothe nerves, cool body temperature, and safely slow metabolism. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) has been used for thousands of years. Numerous controlled studies have illustrated its effectiveness for many sleep issues. It was included in the U.S. National Formulary as a sleep aid and anxiolytic agent for many years until being bumped by pharmaceuticals. Over 150 active constituents have been identified in valerian. Passiflora (Passiflora incarnate) has been found to elevate mood and decrease anxiety and overthinking. Its relaxant effects have been observed over thousands of years of use, and research has confirmed its ability to increase sleep quality. Hops (Humulus lupulus) has been recognized to relieve tension and anxiety-related sleeplessness. Research has shown subjective sleep quality improvements and quality of life improvements comparable to pharmaceutical benzodiazepines, without their side effects and dependency issues. Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) has been used traditionally as an antispasmodic, sedative and anticonvulsant. Its leaves and blue flowers also stimulate a cooling of the body.

A number of other herbs support sleep by relaxing the body and nerves, and reducing pain and inflammation. These include wild lettuce (Lacuca virosa), known traditionally for its mild sedative, antispasmodic, bitter and stomachic effects. Asafoetida (Ferula asafetida L.) has also been used traditionally for its antispasmodic, carminative, nervine, and sedative properties. California poppy (Eschscholzia californica) contains natural alkaloids known for muscle relaxing and pain relief. Poppy seeds from Papaver somniferum contain small amounts of the alkaloids codeine and morphine but not enough to influence dependency or other effects known from restricted extracts. Poppy seeds provide sedative, hypnotic and anodyne effects, used frequently in traditional herbology as a tincture. Lavender (L. angustifolia or L. officinalis) is well known for its sedative effects in tinctures, infusions and aromatherapy applications. Kava (Piper methysticum) has been used traditionally for its sedative, psychotropic and nervine effects. The raw powder (mixed with water, by tincture or capsule) relaxes and calms muscles, soothes tensions, and improves moods. Wild oats (Avena fatua) has been used traditionally as a nervine, tonic, sedative and demulcent to strengthen and soothe nervous exhaustion insomnia. Catnip (Nepeta cateria) has been used traditionally for its antispasmodic, sedative, diaphoretic and cooling properties, to relax muscles and slow metabolism. Sage (Salvia officinalis) contains volatile oils known for their cooling effects upon the body.

These can be taken as tinctures, hot teas, tablets or capsules. Combinations of three to five are recommended—with at least two of the first group above—as they tend to synergize each other in the right combinations. A number of herbalist-formulated combinations of these can be found in health food shops.

Light Therapy

Our body’s sleep patterns can be adjusted naturally through light therapy. The easiest form of light therapy is to stand, sit or walk in direct sunlight early in the day—preferably just after sunrise—for 10-15 minutes each day for a few weeks. This resets the pineal-driven body clock, and alters our cortisol and melatonin cycles, helping us become sleepier earlier in the evening.

Another form of light therapy is rotational therapy. This is done by going to sleep later and later on progressive days until we cycle into the next evening. Sleep researchers typically recommend falling asleep three hours later each day to accomplish this. This effectively rotates the body clock forward a few hours a day until we reach our desired bedtime. This can be exhausting and difficult to do without being on a week’s vacation.

Other Sleep Strategies

Sleep research has revealed a number of simple lifestyle changes to increase our sleep quality. Vigorous daytime exercise tends to increase sleep quality. White noise or natural sounds can help in a noisy environment. Relaxation techniques such as guided imagery and progressive relaxation are helpful. Self-guided imagery might include visualizing a beautiful peaceful island, a waterfall or clouds floating across the sky. Books of landscapes can also be used for this purpose, to flip through before going to sleep. Progressive relaxation alternates the contraction and relaxation of major muscle groups one by one, typically moving from head to toe.

A warm-hot bath an hour before bedtime has been shown to increase sleep quality. The bath will relax and soothe muscles and nerves, followed by a cooling of core body temperature as our metabolism slows. Light massage—done preferably by our mate—is also a great way to relax and soothe muscles and anxieties. Professional massages are not recommended. They tend to be too rigorous and often require a financial transaction—to be avoided any time near bedtime. Soothing massage oils include olive oil and sesame oil with a few drops of St. John’s wort oil or lavender oil. Target zones tend to be the trapezius muscles, lower lumbar region, and occiput (base of the back of the skull).

Lowering core body temperature is critical to falling asleep. The best sleep environment is slightly cool (65-72 F range), and well ventilated with clean, fresh air. Loose-fitting pajamas that breathe and linen sheets will help prevent overheating.

As the evening proceeds, we should steadily dim lights and appliances. No bright bathroom lights to brush by or late night visits to the bright lights of the fridge. These can lower melatonin levels and stimulate cortisol release—retarding our sleep. The electronics around our bedroom can also have this effect. They should be off or dimmed when we sleep. The best sleeping room is uncluttered and simple. Our bedroom should be our escape. Desks, phones, mirrors, electronics, bookshelves, photos, wallets, animals, and calendars are all entrapments, reminding us of our daily responsibilities. Our bedroom should usher our minds and bodies effortlessly into a drift off to dreamland. Sweet dreams!

laughter

Feature Stories


Editor's Note: A team of University of Maryland School of Medicine researchers, led by Dr. Michael Miller, has recently shown for the first time that laughter is linked to healthy function of blood vessels. See news release


Laughter is the "Best Medicine" for Your Heart
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Get answers to your heart disease prevention questions.
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Note: This is for informational purposes only. Doctors cannot provide a diagnosis or individual treatment advice via e-mail. Please consult your physician about your specific health care concerns.





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Can a laugh every day keep the heart attack away? Maybe so.

Laughter, along with an active sense of humor, may help protect you against a heart attack, according to a recent study by cardiologists at the University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore. The study, which is the first to indicate that laughter may help prevent heart disease, found that people with heart disease were 40 percent less likely to laugh in a variety of situations compared to people of the same age without heart disease.

"The old saying that 'laughter is the best medicine,' definitely appears to be true when it comes to protecting your heart," says Michael Miller, M.D., director of the Center for Preventive Cardiology at the University of Maryland Medical Center and a professor of medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine. "We don't know yet why laughing protects the heart, but we know that mental stress is associated with impairment of the endothelium, the protective barrier lining our blood vessels. This can cause a series of inflammatory reactions that lead to fat and cholesterol build-up in the coronary arteries and ultimately to a heart attack."

In the study, researchers compared the humor responses of 300 people. Half of the participants had either suffered a heart attack or undergone coronary artery bypass surgery. The other 150 did not have heart disease. One questionnaire had a series of multiple-choice answers to find out how much or how little people laughed in certain situations, and the second one used true or false answers to measure anger and hostility.

Miller said that the most significant study finding was that "people with heart disease responded less humorously to everyday life situations." They generally laughed less, even in positive situations, and they displayed more anger and hostility.


"The ability to laugh -- either naturally or as learned behavior -- may have important implications in societies such as the U.S. where heart disease remains the number one killer," says Miller. "We know that exercising, not smoking and eating foods low in saturated fat will reduce the risk of heart disease. Perhaps regular, hearty laughter should be added to the list."

Miller says it may be possible to incorporate laughter into our daily activities, just as we do with other heart-healthy activities, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator. "We could perhaps read something humorous or watch a funny video and try to find ways to take ourselves less seriously," Miller says. "The recommendation for a healthy heart may one day be exercise, eat right and laugh a few times a day."



By Michelle W. Murray

Herbal Remedies

Natural herbal remedies from the most popular herb garden herbs
June 13, 12:02 PMTampa Bay Sustainable Agriculture ExaminerRobin MontanyePrevious
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Herbs can be used in refreshing and healing teas
Image: flickr - thebittenword.comHerbal remedies have been used for centuries to provide relief for a variety of ailments. Home remedies can stop a headache, ease a stomach ache, relieve stress and help with an abundance of aches and pains all with the use of simple herbs from the garden. View the slide show below to see the beauty of herbs and to learn how to identify some of the more commonly used herbs.

In the Tampa Bay area, herb gardens can be maintained all year long and what's a better way to cool off on a summer day than a refreshing glass of peppermint tea?

Herbs and their uses


Calendula, a type of marigold, is applied externally in home remedies as salves and ointments for skin irritations. When used in tea it is used to relieve heartburn and to treat ulcers because of its ability to reduce stomach acid. Make an infused oil for use on minor skin irritations by combining 2 parts extra-virgin olive oil and 1 part dried Calendula blossoms in the top of a double boiler and simmer for 1 hour. Strain the cooled mixture before use. If stored in a cool, dark place, this oil will last for 3 to 6 months.

Chamomile is a white flower with a yellow center, very similar to a daisy, and makes a very relaxing tea. Use a tea infuser to brew the dried flowers into a tea. Chamomile can be added to bathwater to soothe fussy babies or for a great way for adults to relax before bed on a stressful day.

Echinacea, a purple coneflower, boosts the immune system. Simply brew the roots by boiling in water for 20 or 30 minutes and strain. Sweeten with honey if desired.

Garlic, although not as pretty as the others, if a very powerful and useful herb for both culinary experiences and for use in natural home remedies. Garlic is an antibacterial and anti-viral, and has cardiovascular benefits. It has also been said that garlic has cancer fighting properties. It is wise to note, that it is believed that once it is cooked garlic loses some of its antibacterial and anti-viral properties.

Ginger has been used to treat digestive difficulties for more than 25 centuries. Ginger root relieves nausea, motion sickness and indigestion and its anti-inflammatory benefits aids with rheumatoid arthritis. Ginger is cooked into foods, made into candy, used to make ginger ale, and used to make ginger tea, among a variety of other uses.

Lavender, a deep purple flower, is used for its relaxing scent and is used to treat insomnia, headaches and burns. Use lavender oil in compresses or in a bath or as a mild tea. Store dried flowers in a pillow for relaxation and to help insomnia.

Lemon Balm is a lemony scented leaf that is used as a tea or as a garnish for relieving headaches and stress. Use dried lemon balm in a tea infuser to make a refreshing lemon-favored tea.

Peppermint leaves are used to relax the muscles of the digestive tract this allows it to soothe stomach aches, and is excellent for indigestion. Use the leaves in a tea infuser or use peppermint oil.

St. John's Wort is a vivid yellow flower with deep green foliage. When infused, St. Johns' Wort makes a dark red oil. Place 2-3 ounces of dried or fresh-wilted St. John's Wort leaves in 1 pint of olive oil. Place the jar in a warm spot – a sunny windowsill works great – for 2 weeks. Gently shake the jar every 2 or 3 days to mix the oil. After the 2 week period, strain and press the oil from the st. John's wort. Allow the remaining oil to sit until any residual water separates out, then poor off the oil and store in a dark location. This oil will keep for 3 to 6 months.

Valerian grows wild in North America on plants that grow up to five feet. Valerian has long, fern-like leaves with small white to pink and lavender flowers that grow in clusters. Use one dropper full of tincture in some water at bedtime to benefit from its relaxing qualities. It is not recommended to make tea out of Valerian because of its foul odor. Many people prefer to just take it in capsule form to avoid the smell altogether. It can be used in combination with some other sweeter herbs to help disguise the taste; use with chamomile, catnip, peppermint and lemon balm as a soothing and relaxing tea or in a calming bath.

Stress

BEST WORKING THEORIES:

1. Fluoride poisoning causes chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia. Written by Jason Uttley and posted on 2/9/2007, this well written and compelling article is something you don't want to miss!

2. Acid reflux is most often caused by painkillers.

3. Certain brands of ice cream cause a fake flu (fever, chills, congestion) within 24 hours and a sinus infection within 48 hours. Are we crazy or brilliant? You be the judge.

4. The past 3 years mark a tremendous upsurge in BOILS and MRSA around the world.

5. Ingestion of Artificial Sweeteners can cause herpes outbreaks within 10 minutes.




BEST HOME REMEDIES

1. For cancer and viruses (including HIV) that linger on and on, we urge you to read Bill Munro's 3% Hydrogen Peroxide Inhalation method.

2. For sore throats that won't respond to antibiotics: Penny's Cayenne Pepper Remedy.

3. To break a high fever: the Egg White remedy.

4. For acid reflux: Apple Cider Vinegar and Baking Soda

5. For tricky fibroid tumors, check out Blackstrap Molasses.

6. For sinus congestion, you just can't beat Oil Pulling. We are coming to the conclusion that it may even be better than apple cider vinegar!

7. For depression and anxiety, we suggest you look into the fabulously cheap and effective Cold Shower Cure .



BEST CURE

Our Bangkok, Thailand contributor Ted has an amazing concoction of home remedies and supplements that cures Lupus, a deadly disease.



BEST CASE STUDIES PAGE

If you know anyone with Fibromyalgia, you might want to check out our Fibromyalgia Case Studies page. We have over 800 case studies that our readers have graciously written to us. Jason Uttley has furthered our research by compiling all of this valuable data into an Excel Spreadsheet.





BEST STRESS INDICATOR TEST ON THE PLANET (Would We Kid You?!)
Working too hard lately? Take our ultra-serious stress indicator test and let us know if you need to take a long vacation. If you fail the test, you might want to follow up with remedies to treat stress.

naptime

Seven Simple Rules for How to Take a Nap
By: Mental Floss (View Profile)

Birds do it, bees do it (we think), even educated monkeys do it. So let’s do it, people. Let’s fall asleep. We’ve talked about the whys of taking naps before—they improve mood, creativity, memory function, heart health, and so much else—but never, to my knowledge, have we discussed how to take a nap. In fact, whenever we write about naps, we always get a few comments from people claiming they’re unable to nap during the day; they just can’t fall asleep, or when they do nap, they wake up groggy and unable to work. In that case, read on, my sleepy friends.

1. The first thing you should know is, feeling sleepy in the afternoon is normal.
It doesn’t mean you had a big lunch, or that you’re depressed, or you’re not getting enough exercise. That’s just how animals’ cycles work—every 24 hours, we have two periods of intense sleepiness. One is typically in the wee hours of the night, from about 2 a.m. to 4 a.m., and the other is around 10 hours later, between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. If you’re a night owl and wake up later in the morning, that afternoon sleepiness may come later; if you’re an early bird, it may come earlier. But it happens to everyone; we’re physiologically hardwired to nap.

2. Naps provide different benefits depending on how long they are.
A short nap of even 20 minutes will enhance alertness and concentration, mood and coordination. A nap of 90 minutes will get you into slow wave and REM sleep, which enhances creativity. If you sleep deeply and uninterruptedly the whole time, you’ll go through a full-minute sleep cycle, and recoup sleep you might not have gotten the night before (we’ve all heard it a million times, but most of us don’t get enough sleep at night).

3. Try not to sleep longer than 45 minutes but less than 90 minutes.
Then you’ll wake up in the middle of a slow-wave cycle, and be groggy. I used to hate taking naps during the day for just this reason—I would always wake up in a fog. My problem was I hadn’t yet perfected the art of the 20 minute catnap.

4. Find a nice dark place where you can lie down.
It takes about 50 percent longer to fall asleep sitting up (this is why red eye flights usually live up to their name), and be armed with a blanket; you don’t want to be chilly. You also don’t want to be too warm, which can lead to oversleeping. (There was a kind of urban legend circulating when I was a kid: don’t fall asleep in the sun, or you’ll never wake up. Not true—but you might wake up three hours later with a ripe sunburn.)

5. White noise can help you fall asleep.
Especially during the day when construction crews, garbage trucks, barking dogs and other noisy awake-world things can conspire to destroy your nap. Keep a fan on, or turn on a nearby faucet for a pleasing rushing-river sound. (Just kidding about that last one.)

6. Don’t nap too close to bedtime.
If you do, you’ll find it difficult to fall asleep later. Remember, your inbuilt sleepy window is sometime in the early to mid-afternoon—try to nap then.

7. Quit your job.
Quit that silly job where they don’t let you take naps during the day

How to Make a Tincture

How to Make a Tincture
by Bryan Shillington

It does not matter what size jar you use as long as the top one quarter is liquid. Dry herbs lose their potency within a year. Fresh herbs rot soon after harvest. Tinctures preserve and extract the medicinal properties of an herb in an alcoholic extract. Tinctures may last more than a hundred years.
You can purchase tinctures through Organic Solutions, or you can make your own. They are very easy to make, but the process is time consuming, and it takes months to brew a strong tincture.
All of our formulas are available to the public. If we lose business and gain competitors, so be it. We need more herbalists and natural healers in this horrid world of huge pharmaceutical companies and pill pushers in white coats. Be the family herbalist. Be your own doctor. Maybe if enough of you make your own herbal preparations, we’ll drive them out of business.
I’ll drink to that! (Herbal tea of course.)

Stuff for making:
Blender
100 proof alcohol (vodka works well)
Glass mason jar
Organic dried or fresh herbs Stuff for straining:
Wooden spoon
Fine kitchen strainer or cheesecloth
Bottle to put the finished tincture in

Note: Make on the new moon; strain on the full moon. Shake tincture at least once a week

It’s really easy:
Put herbs in blender. Add 100 proof alcohol to cover ¼ inch over the herbs. Blend well to a soupy consistency and pour into a glass jar. Screw on lid.
Let herbs settle for a day to see how much liquid is on top. 3/4 herbs to 1/4 liquid on top is best (see diagram). Screw the lid on and let it brew in the dark for at least 4 weeks or for months if you desire (but remember to strain on the full moon). To strain, pour the entire contents of the jar through your strainer and press all liquid out of the soaked herbs with a wooden spoon. Keep finished tincture sealed as the alcohol will evaporate if left unsealed. Cheers,
~ßryan
Journeyman Herbalist
Call 828-835-8071 if you have any questions on how to make a tincture.
www.organicsolutionsstore.com
How to Make a TinctureCopyright © 2009 Organic Lifestyle Magazine

power of life

Power of life
If I raise my head a little I see my wife sitting on the sofa by the window, our 2 dogs sleeping on the floor, a couple of flies buzzing, several trees growing outside and a few birds flying around. All that beauty available to me with hardly moving a muscle.

No-one knows how long life has been around on this planet, how widespread it is through the universe or what life will look like in the distant future. Much of this can be fun to hypothesise and imagine and remains, for the most part, the stuff of science fiction.

I grew up during the Cold War and the topic we discussed most passionately in student bars was the likelihood of war and whether we (the ‘good’ guys) and they (the ‘bad’ guys) would destroy each other. Mutually Assured Destruction (MAD) was the way we described it and it seemed a reality to our young minds that mankind had the power to destroy the planet. Or if not the planet, at the very least, all life on the planet.

Now, the Climate Change debate seems to have taken over the MAD concept and ‘destroying our planet’ has moved from Cold War rhetoric into Environmental rhetoric.

Let me be clear.

I abhor the wanton destruction of life and irresponsible use of the the world’s resources in the interests of profit.

But we do not have the power to destroy the planet.

I doubt we even have the power to destroy our own species, let alone life in all its forms. Life is deeply rooted into this planet of ours and is stronger than we are – and always will be.

Life itself is here to stay, it is enduring, adaptable and you and I are part of its intricate web. I also believe my life force, my soul if you like, is permanent and immortal.

This is not a reason to abuse our planet but even greater reason to treat life with respect. To be in awe of it, admire it and feel humble in its presence.

It is the strength of life that gives me a sense of purpose and permanence. A conviction that it is worthwhile making an effort to make something out of this life of mine, no matter how small and insignificant it might be in the grand scheme of things.

It is the fragility of life that brings to me this almost overwhelming joy and sadness when my younger daughter loses her first tooth and my elder daughter turns 17 …

… and it’s the power of life that helps me withstand the fact that I was not around to witness either