December 2014

Hello, and welcome to this edition of my Natural Healing E-zine!

I hope you will enjoy reading this issue.

If you like this e-zine, please do a friend and me a favor and “pay it forward!”

If a friend DID forward this to you and if you like what you read, please subscribe by visiting my web site.

If you did not receive my last newsletter, than there are e-mail filters at work preventing legitimate e-mails getting to you. It is important that you add my e-mail address to your “white l!ist” or contact your Service Provider.

********************************************
There is No Other Present for You on Earth
Better than Your Life and Health.
*******************************************

IN THIS ISSUE:

1) LIVING LIFE AT A HIGHER VIBRATION

2) SURVIVING AND THRIVING IN A WORLD FULL OF VIRUSES

3) 8 IMPRESSIVE HEALTH BENEFITS OF TURMERIC

4) UNIQUE CHAKRA AND KUNDALINI SUITES

***********************************************************
“Natural Forces Within Us Are The True Healers” ~ Hippocrates

1) LIVING LIFE AT A HIGHER VIBRATION
by Gord Riddel and Kathy Ryndak

As we are settling into the energies of the Great Awakening, more of us want to consistently live our lives in a higher vibration. A lot of us have done cleansing and purging so we can reside in a higher dimension of being. A very popular theme amongst spiritual authors right now is choosing joy and practising kindness.

I was blown away when I heard an interview with Oprah and reality TV producer/mogul, Mark Burnett, saying that reality TV could be kind rather than humiliating. Mind you, Burnett’s wife of six years is Roma Downey (Touched by an Angel) and they just finished producing the blockbuster TV series The Bible. Being kind and paying it forward are cool now versus going by the adage “nice guys finish last.” Bitch and drama queen are out, and compassion and love are in, at least in some circles.

Likewise, we have found that our students at Trans­formational Arts, having healed their past and inner child, are yearning for ways to live at a higher vibration. To that end, this article provides tips for doing so. One of the most important things to remember is that when we move from victimhood to empowerment we usually have a choice about our emotional states, and definitely about the attitudes and thoughts that we have.

Love vs. Fear

A Course in Miracles states that there are only two emotions – love and fear. When we are in fear we are coming from our negative ego. When we are in a state of love we are connected to our soul and source. With awareness, we can choose love over fear.

An acronym for FEAR is False Expectations Appearing Real. If you are in fear, be kind and non-judgmental with yourself. Dialogue and send love to the part of you that is fearful. Our emotional states are good indicators of where our vibration can be found. We will drop in energy when we come from fear, shame, doubt, or judgment.

Gratitude

Make gratitude a daily practice. It is difficult to be worried and be grateful at the same time. Gratitude begets hope and optimism, and positively influences the law of attraction. When you do not have what you want in life, be grateful for what you do have in the present moment. This will start the flow of abundance. It is important not to go to lack or scarcity.

One of the most important prayers we can say to the universe is “Thank you.” Always begin your day with something to be grateful for. End your day with a prayer of thanks, sending a blessing of love and light to those in your life.

Joy

You can make joy a daily practice too. Journal about what brings you joy – usually it is the smaller things in life and being around people who you love. Every day when you rise, hold the intention of doing a few things that bring you joy.

Donald Altman’s book, The Joy Compass, gives us eight ways to experience more joy: laughter, gratitude, forgiveness, music, meditation, affirmations, grounding in the here and now, and love and social connections.

Uplifting People

Be around people who uplift you and inspire you. Love yourself enough to make this choice. When this is not possible, stay neutral and detached from people whose energy can be draining and dense. Don’t get hooked by their drama and antics to engage you. If you are getting triggered by them, do some self-reflection to find the root cause. You can set boundaries for how long you will be in their company. By no means ever accept abuse.

Surround yourself with the purple shield of Archangel Michael for protection when you are around negative people. Send them light and love before an encounter. Then bless them and accept them for where they can be found.

Colour, Crystals, and Scents

Colour is very important in raising your vibration. The colours of the upper chakras, such as green, turquoise, blue, indigo, purple, and magenta, help us to lift up. When deciding what you wear every day, intuitively choose the colour that you need. Crystals and scents also play a role. You can wear crystals or place them throughout your home. Organite crystals help to transform negative EMF energies and radiation from cell phones. Place one by your computer. Higher vibrational scents such as jasmine, neroli, and lavender enhance our moods and are wonderful to use in meditation. You can make hydrosol sprays from essential oils and water to clear your space and make it smell pleasant.

Sacred Space

Create sacred space in your home and garden. The home should be a place where our soul shows up and we can rejuvenate by surrounding ourselves with colours, textures, lighting, shapes, and energy flow that make us feel good. When you come home, it is great to feel that you have created a sanctuary for yourself to relax and rejuvenate in. Decluttering also increases your vibration as energy can now flow and it cultivates inner clarity.

In your garden, choose flowers and colours that you resonate with. Add statues that are spiritually meaningful for you such as Buddha, St. Francis, or Goddesses. Hang ornaments on your shrubs and trees that reflect light. A water feature will attract singing birds, butterflies, and little critters that are delightful to watch.

Develop a profound appreciation for beauty. Everywhere you go, find beauty by seeing the Divine in all. When you walk around your neighbourhood, see beauty in the smallest thing – a raindrop reflecting light on the petal of a flower. Revel in the beauty of a flower and connect to its essence with a sense of wonderment and awe. Honour the divinity in nature, animals, and your pets. See beauty in simplicity.

 
Source

Establish your reconnection to Source whenever it weakens. An easy way to do this is to place your right hand on your heart and chant ‘Ah.’ Your heart is the portal to your soul. “All is well” is a powerful mantra to keep you in alignment.

As this topic is vast, stay tuned for more to follow. Living from a higher vibration enhances your experience in life, letting you reside in more heavenly and divine energy.

About the Authors: Gord Riddell and Kathy Ryndak are therapists and co-founders of the Transformational Arts College of Spiritual and Holistic Training. The College offers professional training programs in Spiritual Psychotherapy, Spiritual Director, Holistic Health, Coaching, and psychospiritual courses through a 10-part program ‘Discovering the Total Self’. For more information on these programs, call the College at 416-484-0454 or toll free 1-800-TAC-SELF or visit www.transformationalarts.com. To receive our monthly e-newsletter email marketing@transformationalarts.com

*********************************************************

I am as close to changing my life as my current positive thoughts. ~Louise L. Hay

**********************************************************

2) SURVIVING AND THRIVING IN A WORLD FULL OF VIRUSES
by Michael Vertolly, RH

The recent Ebola outbreak has brought the issue of a potential viral pandemic back into the public’s awareness. As scary as Ebola is, the likelihood of a global pandemic is relatively low because it’s a slowly mutating virus and not easily transmitted between humans. It was  the poverty, poor sanitation, and insufficient medical resources in the ‘hot zone’ which caused the outbreak to become so serious. Had the global community mobilized quickly with money and resources, instead of waiting for some future pharmaceutical solution, the epidemic could have been brought under control more quickly.

Nevertheless, any number of potential global pandemics are far more likely in modern times due to global warming, habitat destruction, human overpopulation, extensive global trade and travel, and poor diet and lifestyle practices among much of our population – due to poverty in some regions and affluence and over- consumption in others.

Probably the greatest threat is the H5N1 avian influenza virus. There could be severe consequences if this virus mutates into a form that is easily transmitted between people. Unfortunately, conditions that increase the risk of continue to exist in Asian markets where overcrowded and stressed out wild and domestic animals and humans co-exist in close quarters.

What’s important is that we not lose sight of the bigger picture. Firstly, no one really knows if a global pandemic is going to occur, and if it does – when, where, what kind, and how severe it’s going to be. There’s no point worrying about something that may or may not happen and over which we have no control. What we need to do more of is live each moment to the fullest and embrace the mystery. We will be happier, healthier and feel more fulfilled if we do.

The same thing applies to death. We’re all going to die. What we don’t know is where, when and how. Traditional cultures get this. They may mourn death, but they also accept it as a fact of life. In modern Western culture we see death as something evil and like to pretend that it isn't going to happen. Maybe there will be one or more pandemics, and maybe one of them is going to kill us. All the more reason to live our lives to the fullest right here and now!

That said, there are basic principles and practices that will increase our resistance to viruses and other pathogens. The more of these we put into practice, the better the results. It doesn’t mean that we won’t get sick, but we’ll get sick a lot less, it will be shorter and less severe when we do, and if some new disease for which we have no immunity does come around, we’ll have a much better chance of surviving it. Overall, it is best if we follow these guidelines as a means of living well rather than out of fear of illness. Here are my recommendations:

1) Diet – Eat a healthy diet focusing on whole, natural, certified organic foods including lots of vegetables and fruits. Eat grains and grain-like seeds whole as much as possible, not as flour products. Reduce consumption of processed foods, greasy foods, animal products, and simple carbohydrates (sugar and white flour). If you eat dairy and/or animal protein, purchase good quality organic products and consume small serving sizes of these foods. If you have any food sensitivities, avoid those foods as much as possible, preferably completely.

2) Exercise– Get lots of exercise. Walk a lot and include at least 30 minutes of moderate to strenuous aerobic exercise three to four times per week. Also, minimize the amount of time spent sitting at computers, watching TV, or driving for long periods of time. When these are unavoidable, stop, get up, move around and stretch for a couple of minutes every 20-30 minutes.

3) Rest and Relaxation – Many of us are sleep deprived and some rely on caffeine to stay alert. Ideally, for most adults seven to nine hours of sleep is optimal, depending on the person. Children, adolescents and people who are sick need more. We also need down time. Watching action or violent TV shows and movies, playing video games, or text messaging are not down time. Taking long walks, especially in nature, or just sitting quietly in a park or our backyard is. The key is to do something we enjoy that is calming, relaxing, and doesn’t involve too much excitement or mental chatter.

4) De-stressing – Most people are way too stressed out. Being chill about microbes, exercising, and getting sufficient sleep and down time is a start. We also need to learn to be fully present in our life. We don’t need to be accessible 24/7, nor do we need to be constantly updated about everything our friends are doing. As a result, one of the best ways many people can reduce stress these days is to keep their cell phone turned off most of the time.

We also need to realize that we create most of the stress in our lives through automatic maladaptive stress-response patterns that we have repeated for decades. Most stress isn’t inherent in situations. We create it through the stories that we tell ourselves about those situations. These patterns are learned and they can be unlearned by becoming more mindful and/or replacing them with better response patterns. Disciplines such as meditation, prayer, yoga and tai chi can be helpful, as can a good counselor or therapist.

5) Connecting With Nature – Although the modern paradigm tries to convince us otherwise, we are natural beings and we need to nourish our connection with nature just as much as we need air, water, food, shelter, exercise and love. Being in and with nature both fulfills an inherent need and is one of the best ways to reduce stress. However, racing around in nature on ATVs, snowmobiles, and noisy motorboats isn’t as beneficial.

6) Probiotics – When it comes to microbes, we need to stop seeing them as our enemies and realize that for the most part they are our friends. Life would not be possible without them, and most of them are directly or indirectly beneficial to us. Even potentially pathogenic organisms are mostly good for us. We are exposed to them every day and many of them live in and on our body all of the time.

Mostly, they just provide ‘exercise’ for our immune system, which is necessary for proper immune function.

That said, it is essential that we have a healthy population of friendly microorganisms living in and on our body. We are intimately connected to the world we live in, physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Our body functions more like an ecosystem than an individual entity. The microorganisms that normally live in and on us work together with our cells to help create an environment that is mutually beneficial to both. They also work with our immune cells. In a way they are part of our immune system.

There are many things that disturb our internal ecology. Antibiotics are the worst and they should be used only when necessary, which is very rarely, possibly never for some people. Excessive ingestion of natural antimicrobials can have a similar affect, especially when they are very concentrated such as essential oils. We also need to eat lots of fibre and have a strong, healthy digestive system. When our digestive system isn’t functioning well it will lead to changes in our gut flora. The most important contributors to poor digestion are overloading the digestive system by eating too much, too often, or too close to bedtime. This system needs to rest – regularly! The other major cause of poor digestion is too much stress.

A good probiotic supplement should contain at least five to six strains of bacteria, including Lactobacillus rhamnosus. A good potency is 10 billion active cells or more. Probiotics must be refrigerated, and in capsule form, because the capsule helps to protect the culture from moisture and oxygen. It is essential that you open up the capsule and mix it with water  because it is necessary to get the culture into your mouth and throat. From there it can spread deeper into your respiratory system. Getting the culture into your mouth, throat, and respiratory system is the most important factor in terms of preventing viral infections as most viruses enter our body via this route. Swishing the water with probiotic culture around in your mouth before swallowing it will facilitate the culture getting established in your mouth and throat.

Probiotics should be taken on an empty stomach at least four hours after eating, one hour after drinking anything other than water, and 30 minutes before eating or drinking anything other than water. Empty the capsule into 6 - 8 oz of water that doesn’t contain chlorine. What works even better is to add it to warm water with a tablespoon of organic psyllium husks or whole flax seeds, as these help the culture to adhere to mucus membranes and support its growth. In my view, the best time to take probiotics is first thing in the morning.

Even if we eat well and have healthy digestive function, there are lots of things that can throw off the balance of our internal microflora. For that reason it’s a good idea to take a good probiotic supplement for three to four weeks, three to four times per year as a prophylactic. We should also take it any time we feel like we are getting sick, for the duration of the illness and at least one week afterwards. In some ways this is even more important than taking herbs – but taking both is best. Probiotics are also recommended any time we travel a significant distance, starting a week before we leave and ending a week after we return.

7) Hygiene – Connected to the probiotic issue is the health of the microflora of our skin. One of the biggest challenges in this regard is our current obsession with sterility – a result of our microbe phobia. Yes, it is important to wash our hands whenever they are ‘dirty’, however the use of antimicrobial soaps, hand sanitizers and similar products is detrimental to the health of skin and the organisms that live on it. Soap alone is antimicrobial enough, and even too much soap is a bad thing.

For women, disturbances of the microflora that occur from washing their genital region with soap, or getting chlorinated and/or soapy water into the vagina while taking a bath, are among the leading causes of vaginal infections. The only time that soap is warranted (externally) is during menstruation.

For both women and men, washing with soap after sexual intercourse can help to prevent STDs, but practising safe sex with safe partners is better.

If you are concerned about microbes on your hands, periodically washing them with plain yogurt will help to keep your population of skin microbes healthy, which is an important natural way of preventing infection. Yogurt is also good for our skin!

A special note here to parents: these guidelines also apply to our children. Not only will our paranoia about cleanliness encourage them to grow up to be anxious, fearful adults, but there is a growing body of evidence (officially called the ‘hygiene hypothesis’) that infants and young children need to be exposed to microorganisms from their environment, especially soil, in order for their immune systems to develop properly. Excessive hygiene at an early age is correlated with an increase in autoimmune conditions later in life. Go figure!

8) Supplements – The issue of supplements is too complex to cover in detail here, but there are many that can help boost immune function. At the very least I recommend a good quality low potency multivitamin with minerals; non-acidic vitamin C (I prefer mineral ascorbates over ascorbic acid); polyphenols such as flavonoids, anthocyanins and catechins; zinc; selenium; and omega-3 fatty acids.

Melatonin is also important, but it is better to support the body in producing a sufficient level of its own melatonin rather than taking it as a supplement. This means plenty of exposure to outdoor light (without sunglasses) during the day, as well as sleeping in a spot that is completely dark at night. It is best if people who usually need to get up at night learn to navigate their way to the bathroom in the dark rather than turning on lights. Or use a red night-light that isn’t very bright. The red light spectrum doesn’t shut off melatonin production as readily as other colours. One of the reasons that immune dysfunction is so prevalent today is that our melatonin production atrophies with age, largely due to stress, lack of sunlight, and sleeping in environments that aren’t dark enough to maintain consistent melatonin levels all night long.

9) Reduce Exposure to Toxicity – This includes pollutants in our environment, workplace and home such as chemical solvents, air pollution, and household cleaning products. It also includes agricultural and food processing chemicals. It is also best to reduce our use of social and pharmaceutical drugs. This includes cigarettes, marijuana, ‘hard’ drugs and pharmaceuticals (especially antibiotics). If you consume caffeine and/or alcohol, do so in moderation. Once per day is acceptable, although it isn’t good to have either of these every day. Two cups of tea in a day is OK as they contain roughly the same amount of caffeine as one cup of coffee. It's also better to drink dark roasted coffee because it contains less caffeine. Caffeine containing "energy drinks" are never recommended.

10) Immune Stimulating Herbs – Immune stimulants are short-term immunomodulators that stimulate an immediate response of our immune system to any type of stressor. To give the immune system a boost, it is best to combine four to five of them and take them for short periods of time followed by a break. Their effectiveness drops off if they are used for more than a week or two. An immune stimulant formula is taken three to four times per day. In general, herbs are best taken on an empty stomach for adequate assimilation. So, we take the immune stimulants three to four times per day on an empty stomach for one to two weeks and then stop taking them for at least another week. For the average person, that might mean taking them one week per month during the time of year when they are most susceptible to infections, probably September to April for most people.

For a stronger boost, immune stimulants can be taken one to two weeks on, followed by one to two weeks off, for several cycles. This is called pulsing them. Taking them continuously for a longer period doesn’t increase their effectiveness, but pulsing them more does.

Immune stimulants can also be used to treat an infection in progress. The sooner we start using it, the more effective the results. When treating an acute infection in progress, begin by taking the formula every couple of hours, or maybe even every hour if the symptoms are intense. Then gradually decrease the frequency of the dose when the symptoms start clearing up. Sometimes people who use immune stimulant herbs obtain poor results. It’s usually because they weren’t taking enough and/or they started too late. For acute infections, it is even more effective if we combine immune stimulant herbs with herbs that treat the specific kind of infection that is present.

Effective immune stimulants that are versatile and easy to use include purple coneflower herb and root (Echinacea spp.), elecampane root (Inula helenium), plantain herb (Plantago spp.), pot marigold flower (Calendula officinalis), boneset herb (Eupatorium perfoliatum), yarrow herb (Achillea millefolium), black elder flower (Sambucus nigra), and stinging nettle herb/rhizome (Urtica dioica).

11) Immune Tonic Herbs – Immune tonics work more slowly and deeply than immune stimulants. They must be taken continuously, three to four times per day, for at least two to three months. Immune tonics are not recommended for acute infections, but are very good for chronic auto-immune conditions and as long term tonics to boost overall immune function. They work best when following a period of time pulsing a good immune stimulant formulation.

Some of the immune tonics that I often use are North American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius), Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus), Chinese milkvetch (Astragalus membranaceus), turmeric rhizome (Curcuma longa), and a number of fungi including lacquered polypore or reishi (Ganoderma lucidum), artist’s conk (G. applanatum) hemlock varnish shelf (G. tsugae), birch polypore (Piptoporus betulinus), tinder fungus (Fomes fomentarius) and turkey tail (Trametes versicolor).

12) Antiviral Herbs – Many herbs have antiviral properties. They are important to include, along with immune stimulants, in formulations for the treatment of viral infections such as colds and influenza. During an outbreak of a particularly nasty viral infection, they can be pulsed along with immune stimulants to boost resistance. Although the action of antivirals doesn’t wear off in the same way as with immune stimulants, if they are used continuously there is a risk that viruses that we repeatedly come in contact with could develop a resistance to the herbs that we are using. Taking them continuously is not recommended and it’s best not to use the same herbs all the time.

Some of the common and effective antiviral herbs include all of the immune stimulants that I mentioned above with the exception of plantain and elecampane. Other excellent antivirals include: lemon balm herb (Melissa officinalis), hyssop herb (Hyssopus officinalis), heal-all herb (Prunella vulgaris), mad-dog skullcap herb (Scutellaria lateriflora), peppermint herb (Mentha x piperita), St. Johns Wort herb (Hypericum perforatum), blue vervain herb (Verbena hastata), oregano (Origa-num vulgare), marjoram herb (O. majorana), wild bergamot herb (Monarda fistulosa), sage (Salvia officinalis) and cinnamon bark (Cinnamomum verum).

When using antivirals for serious conditions it is necessary to add a potentizing antiviral herb to the formulation. These herbs are less tonic and more intense and, as a result, tend to have side-effects and potential toxicity associated with them. We usually only include one of these herbs in a formulation, at a proportion of about 20%, supported by some of the more tonic antivirals listed above. The high potency herbs are associated with a greater potential for toxicity and should only be used under the guidance of a qualified herbalist, so they will not be discussed here.

The medium potency antiviral herbs that I use include black walnut leaf or fruit husk (Juglans nigra), creosote-bush or chaparral leaf (Larrea tridentata), and myrrh resin (Commiphora myrrha).

All of the immune tonic herbs that I mentioned are antiviral as well. We don’t use them in immune stimulant formulations or for acute infections, but we do get additional antiviral benefits from immune tonic formulations. In general, I prefer to use tinctures made from fresh herbs. Although other forms will work, these will get the best results.

Anyone who is pregnant, nursing, has a serious health condition, or is taking pharmaceuticals should consult with a qualified herbalist or other health care professional trained in the use of herbs before using any of these protocols. If you try any of these herbs and have an unusual reaction or don’t get sufficient results, your condition may be too complicated for self-treatment and it’s best to consult with a practitioner. The issue of infectious disease is complex. Just remember that there are a lot of positive things we can do if we choose to. So, live well, be aware, and most importantly, don’t succumb to fear!

About the Author: Michael Vertolli is a Registered Herbalist practising in Vaughan (just north of Toronto). He is the Director of Living Earth School of Herbalism which offers in-class and online general interest courses, certificate and diploma programs. For more information: 905-303-8723. Website: www.livingearthschool.ca. Blog: michaelvertolli.blogspot.ca

3) 8 IMPRESSIVE HEALTH BENEFITS OF TURMERIC
by Dr. Edward Group

Turmeric, or Curcuma longa, is an ancient spice used traditionally among the peoples of India and Asia as far back as 2,000 BC. The spice belongs in the ginger family and has been highly prized in the culinary traditions of these ancient cultures for millennia. Turmeric imparts a vibrant yellowish hue to curry dishes, and the spice is also used as a natural dyeing agent for cloths. In Persia, turmeric comes from the word saffron and is closely related to the spice.

The main phytochemicals that give turmeric its most impressive and wide-ranging health benefits are curcuminoids. Amazingly, over 9,000 medical and clinical research studies have been conducted on this amazing spice and its extracted curcumin in recent years, with most finding significant physiological benefits.

There are 3 primary phytochemicals in the curcuminoid family credited for its health benefits: diferuloylmethane (or curcumin, the primary curcuminoid responsible for turmeric’s vibrant yellowish color), demethoxycurcumin, and bisdemethoxycurcumin. In addition to these three chemicals, turmerone is another of the potent volatile oils found in the root.

Research has proven these curcuminoids exert powerful health-promoting effects via 160 mechanisms and pathways in the body such as antioxidant, neuroprotective, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, epigenetic, and adaptogenic properties.

8 Health Benefits of Turmeric

Turmeric provides an abundance of antioxidants capable of supporting cellular health, but what does that mean for you? Here are some of the most well-researched benefits of turmeric.

1. Mood Balancing
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study in the Journal of Affective Disorders showed noticeable and promising results with turmeric for symptoms of depression. Two groups were studied over 8 weeks. The first group received curcumin (the main therapeutic constituent in turmeric) daily, while the other received placebo. After 8 weeks, the depression and anxiety score tests completed by all of the participants showed significant symptom improvements compared to placebo. Could turmeric be a potential new option in your cabinet for stabilizing mood? Only future and more in-depth research can determine for sure.

2. Wound Healing
A study in the Sept 2014 issue of Life Sciences performed an extensive review on curcumin and wound/injury healing. Researchers found turmeric (curcumin) to have beneficial properties that appear to speed the wound healing process. These modes of action include the modulation of inflammation and oxidation, the ability to improve granulation tissue formation, tissue remodeling, and deposition of collagen. As new studies come to light showing turmeric’s ability to potentiate the body’s natural healing processes and outcome, the possible breadth of applications for this could be enormous.

An exciting study in the Oct 2006 issue of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry demonstrated the efficacy of a topical turmeric application for wounds in rat models. The results showed that turmeric increased collagen synthesis rates, improved wound contraction, and increased remodeled tissue tensile strength and cell proliferation around the wound site. Turmeric also showed antioxidant properties thought to contribute to a better healing process outcome.

3. Pain Relief
An impressive multicenter study completed and published in the March 2014 issue of the Journal of Clinical Interventions in Aging looked at the effect of turmeric on knee osteoarthritis pain and function. Two groups were randomized and divided; one group received turmeric extract, while the other group received the daily UL (upper limit) dose of the NSAID pain-reliever ibuprofen. The study was conducted for 4 weeks and thorough questionnaires were given pre- and post-study completion to assess effectiveness.

Results showed that the turmeric group experienced pain relief to an equal extent as the ibuprofen group. The turmeric group, however, seemed to enjoy more relief from joint stiffness compared with the participants taking ibuprofen. Those taking turmeric reported significantly less side effects than those taking NSAIDs. A double-blind, placebo-controlled study in the December 2011 issue of Surgical Endoscopy looked at turmeric supplementation on postoperative pain and fatigue in patients who had gallbladder surgery. Patients taking turmeric experienced significantly less pain and fatigue (per pain scale log assessments) at intervals of 3 weeks, as compared to placebo.

4. Blood Sugar Optimization
A novel investigative study published in the Nov 2014 issue of The Journal of Endocrinology looked at the effects of turmeric (curcumin, specifically) on the insulin-producing cells of the pancreas called Beta cells (or B-cells) and Islet cells, in relation to type-2 diabetes conditions. Researchers treated B-cell lines and human Islet cells with preparations of turmeric and found impressive insulin secretion improvements, improved insulin sensitivity, and a reduction of PDEs, enzymes that are deleterious to health and function in the pancreas. This study, among others, suggest that curcumin may aid future approaches to type-2 diabetes.

5. Soothing Properties
Turmeric has been shown in studies to be valuable in helping the body modulate and buffer excess inflammation. The inflammatory response is a healthy and natural mechanism the body uses to usher soothing compounds in acute times of crises or repair. It’s believed that most people in today’s toxic, stress-laden environment are under constant inflammatory conditions, and a growing number of individuals in the health community now believe this to be the origin of many disease processes.

A review study published in the 2007 issue of Advances of Experimental Medicine reviewed studies looking at the mechanisms of turmeric to come to an understanding of how it likely works. Researchers discovered the anti-inflammatory effect of turmeric (curcumin) is likely exerted through its ability to inhibit inflammatory enzymes including cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), lipoxygenase (LOX), and nitric oxide synthase (NOS), among others. These three are particularly important enzymes that mediate and inform the inflammatory processes, though if poorly regulated can possibly lead to disease. Turmeric shows promise in helping the body adapt and regulate these enzymes.

6. Arthritis Relief
A randomized, pilot clinical study was published in the November 2012 issue of Phytotherapy Research. The goal of the study was to see the effectiveness and/or difference in the relief of active arthritis pain in treatment groups. One study group received the standard-of-care medication (diclofenac sodium), while the other received turmeric. Patients were given symptom score sheets (DAS/ACR) to assess results. Turmeric outperformed diclofenac sodium on all levels, including being relatively free from adverse side effects.

7. Cholesterol Optimization
Turmeric’s ability to help the body regulate and balance cholesterol levels has been hypothesized and studied since the 1990s with varying levels of benefits. A couple of these studies show an impressive reduction in lipid profiles and cholesterol markers in turmeric-supplemented groups. One randomized, single-blind clinical study published in the November 2011 issue of Phytotherapy Research set out to investigate turmeric’s effect on cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

Group participants were given either turmeric (curcumin) in low or high doses, and a control group was given vitamin E only. After just seven days, the results proved statistically significant. Low-dose turmeric showed the most improvement as compared to the other two groups, with serum cholesterol levels being reduced by 17% and triglycerides being slashed a whopping 47%!

Another study conducted a similar seven day trial. Results showed the turmeric (curcumin) supplemented participants had reduced serum cholesterol by 12%, reduced lipid peroxides (cholesterol byproduct marker) by 33%, and increased HDL cholesterol (the good kind) by an impressive 29%. Most importantly, these studies show that turmeric is consistently safe and has very low risk of side effect.

8. Gastroprotective (Ulcers)
India has long used turmeric in curry dishes as a taste and color enhancer. Another key reason turmeric has been used in so many cultural dishes in the East for millennia is because of its soothing properties on digestion. Researchers wanted to test the protective effects of turmeric on the lining of the stomach against acidic preparations (ethanol) used to induce stomach ulcers in test animals (representative of humans).

A preparation containing the essential oils from turmeric was administered prior to the ethanol and the results were impressive. Turmeric inhibited stomach ulcer formation by an impressive 85%. Lesions, tissue necrosis, and hemorrhaging were also greatly reduced. In addition, turmeric also appears to offer some impressive protection for stomach ailments.

Some information out there suggests turmeric has hundreds of therapeutic and beneficial health properties, and as science advances and further studies are conducted on this amazing spice, the applications seem extremely exciting.

Source: www.globalhealingcenter.com

4) UNIQUE CHAKRA AND KUNDALINI ACTIVATOR SUITES

* New Chakra Tuning, Clearing and Energizing Products

* Unique Musical Composition incorporating Potent Brainwave and Chakra Harmonics;

* No need for meditation, headphones or mantras. You can even play this while sleeping or watching TV;

* No distracting vocal content, subliminals or hypnosis;

* No harsh single tones or white sound;

* Optional Kundalini Awakening Frequency

Click on a link for more information or to download a no cost sample of a Chakra Kundalini Suite

Learn more about Kundalini

********************************************************

GAMES FOR FUN

Play these games for fun and entertainment only.

Games such: Discover what color is your Aura and Which Chakra are you guided by....

Play here and have fun

Thank you for reading.

Livia
https://www.reiki-for-holistic-health.com
http://natural-health-and-healing.com
Brampton, Ontario, Canada

******************************************

Comments? Ideas? Feedback? I’d love to hear from you. Just reply to this e-zine.

***********************************************************
SUBMIT YOUR REIKI HEALING STORY, AURA PICTURE or YOUR ARTICLE
I am inviting you to submit your healing story, your experience with Reiki , or to upload your Aura picture. If you are a Reiki practitioner (or energy healer) you may submit your article, what is a great opportunity for you to advertise your practice/business.
Please go to Your Reiki Healing Storyweb page and submit your story. I would love to hear about them. Upload your Chakra Picture here, or submit your article here.

Upcoming Online Programs and Events

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS AND RESOURCES:

"USUI REIKI HEALING MASTER™" is a digital program that teaches you how to learn to Practice Reiki from the very basics up to Reiki Master Level. You can become a certified Reiki Master by learning Reiki in the comfort of your home.  You may teach others...Or simply learn Reiki for yourself in order to improve your own health...or maybe you always had an interest in becoming a healer...In any case, this program is for you.

PURE REIKI HEALING MASTERY

LEARN HOW TO SEE AND READ AURAS: You'll go from a novice to expert, with Auras Guide, a 4 part audio course.

If you’re tired of stress, excess drama or overwhelm, then grab your complementary copy of the Emotional-Mental Detox E-book today!

PRACTITIONER SUPPLIES: Find Healing Tools for Practitioners, Therapists and others. Learn about the advertising opportunity for your practice.

REIKI STORE

REIKI & THE LAW OF ATTRACTION: Judith and Chris Conroy are giving away a FREE gift ebook called "Reiki & The Law of Attraction" to offer you more insight into the Law of Attraction, and how you can work with Reiki for manifestation, as well as healing and transformation.

AURA HEALING WITH ISOCHIRAL FREQUENCES  
SILVA LIFE SYSTEM: Freedom from Disease, Recession-Proof Wealth, and a Life Awakened to Your Purpose! Download your no cost Training Program Now or Get a Home Study Course.

Learn to Heal Yourself with The Emotion Code!: Dr. Nelson's Body Code System for Ultimate Energy Healing and Body Balancing!

LEARN EFT: Emotional Freedom Technique.

TOOLS AND STRATEGIES TO HELP YOU ACHIEVE HIGHER LEVELS OF CONSCIOUSNESS, like the free Alpha audio we're giving away... Collect your free alpha audio!

Get Your Personalized No Charge NUMEROLOGY Reading

CORE ENERGY TECHNIQUERelease just about EVERY negative emotion you can imagine -- stress, anxiety, anger, sadness and depression ...and INSTANTLY connect with Source whenever you want to.

Download Your No Cost "20 Healthy Raw Snacks And Treats" Recipe Book.

A JOURNEY TO WILD DIVINE
The WILD DIVINE is the world's first "INNER-ACTIVE" video game made specifically for people on a spiritual path that incorporates "biofeedback" directly into the game. Wearing three finger sensors that track your body's heart rate variability and skin conductance, you move through enchanting and mystical landscapes using the power of your thoughts, feelings, breath and awareness. This is an incredible new tool for self-improvement and wellness! A perfect gift for any holiday .
Start the Journey to Wild Divine NOW!

OPEN YOUR THIRD EYE
Learn How To Open Your Third Eye.A unique, simple and safe technique opens your third eye in the comfort of your own home.

REIKI MASTER HOME STUDY COURSE: Become a Usui Reiki Master in the Comfort of your Own Home.

LEARN THE REAL HOW-TO ‘SECRETS’ TO ATTRACT ANYTHING YOU WANT! Here…

FIVE SECRET TIBETAN REJUVENATION RITES
Five Secret Tibetan Exercises to tone your muscles and supercharge your energy centers. Turn back the clock and rejuvenate your body!

WORLD OF ALTERNATIVES
Aura and Chakra tuning, Instant meditation, Past life regression, Astral projection, Manifestation ...easy way.

REIKI BOOKS, CDs, DVDs, MAGAZINES
Also other highly recommended books, exceptional self-improvement books, programs and courses. C.lick here:

A GUIDE TO COLOR HEALING and COLOR MEDITATION
Instructions and exercises to develop color consciousness.

47 SIMPLE HERBAL REMEDIES
Learn how to take care of your health naturally!

COOKING HEALTHY LESSONS

TUNE UP YOUR BRAIN WITH MP3

Get Your Personalized (and no charge) NUMEROLOGY Reading

OXY-POWDER
Oxy-Powder will help melt away and eliminate the compaction from the small intestine, large intestine and colon, safe and effectively. This is important because a clean intestinal tract is the beginning of obtaining optimal health. It will also provide oxygen directly into the bloodstream. 120 Vegetarian Capsules.
Buy Oxy-Powder Here!

NATURAL HEALTH STORE Offers selected alternative products for women’s and man’s health. Check it out!

DO YOU WANT TO BUILD AN EFFECTIVE WEB SITE?
I highly recommend Site Build It! If you wish to start a serious new business on the Net or just to build a second income stream, this product will exceed your expectations. SBI! Builds sites that WORK for ANY Small Business! Most people start wrong. No TRAFFIC –> Wrong PROCESS. SBIers have all the tools and process they need to ‘get’ it right and succeed! The “Worlds Best Shopping Cart” has ben also launched!
Find out more here!

********************************************

Your privacy is important to me. I will never sell or share your e-mail address with anybody.

********************************************

This newsletter is for educational purposes only. It is your right to educate yourself in health and medical knowledge, to seek helpful information and make use of it for your own benefit, and for that of your family. You are the one responsible for your health. You must educate yourself in order to make decisions in all health matters. My views and advises are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medicine, but simply a help you to make educated changes in order to help your body heal itself. If you have a medical condition or concern you should consult your physician.

********************************************