Global Climate Engineering- Geoengineering

   Although thought to be on the more speculative end of contributing factors towards global warming, many studies have proven that the practice of Climate Engineering is verifiably dangerous. Not only because of the most blatant aspect of the program, which is the purposed and intentional motives of programming the climate at desire or leisure.  However, even more glaring is the knowledge of science interfering with nature and the balance as has been sustainably successful since before the agribusiness and geoengineering geniuses became involved. 

   What? Global Climate engineering, also referred to as geoengineering, is the deliberate and large-scale intervention in the Earth’s climatic system with the professed aim of reducing global warming.

   Where? Various systems are utilized thorughout all of the nations and continents. Yes, my friend, this is on a global scale. Worldwide. This is not isolated to a certain area of the planet. 

   Why? Many are ignorant or poorly informed of the status of our planet in terms of the destruction of eco systems and habitats for wild game and plant life. I was also lacking in education regarding these matters at one time. After eagerly researching and becoming more acclimated with the destruction and desolation in the wake of corporate motives to assess more property for the market sector, all while destroying naturally occurring areas of land and natural resources in the pursuit of profits. Due to these devastating effects, many of the companies remain active in attempts to misinform and fraud the public from being aware of the ramifications. One of those being the fact that there is a very active and dire situation on Earth known as global warming. The planet is suffering due to the toll these abusive corporations place on our precious planet Earth. Our sole Ozone layer has been burned through at basically acidic levels, with little disregard for the future complications this may bring upon the atmosphere. The lax administration guidelines developed by government lobbyists for government agencies are simply in place to present the perception of accountability. However, the lobbyists,  personal interests and potential ROI tend to overshadow the grave status of the climate patterns. The practice of "geoengineering" involves directly administering commands to an advanced system coined HAARP (High Frequency Active Auroral Research Program) to "produce" weather, climate, conditions and even mimic natural disasters in an effort to encourage cooler temperatures throughout the globe. The reason is simple, the damage is beginning to become obvious so in lieu of cleaning up their act the big business throw money into a system that can temporarily hide the issue of rising planet temps. 

   How? HAARP. The(High Frequency Active Auroral Research Program). This is an ionospheric research program jointly funded by the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Navy and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). That's how. If you can, take note at least three times a week towards the sky. If you are familiar with commercial air traffic then you are aware that there is not a train of grey mist/dust that trails behind it. This is only I seen when there are a multitude of chemicals being deposited into the atmosphere. A majority of the team the trails being left behind in our skies are an active ingredient as defined in Chemistry as Barium. Another lovely agent that is invited to the party is Ammonium. The combining of these elements can provide an environment for immediately frigid temperatures. This is only one of the created climate scenarios programs utilize on an almost daily basis. There are  techniques utilized for the creation of air, water and extreme temperature scenarios. This program is kept relatively quiet and lacks any media coverage or informed facts for the public. I encourage anyone to take the time and inform themselves about this program. It is controversial both in it's use and the ultimate purpose. This practice is in essence a poorly maneuvered effort to mask the  destruction and effects of our wasteful consumption habits. The HAARP system is an attempt by agribusiness supporters, corporate cronies and government lobbyists to hide their hand and renounce  all involvement in the horanous activities that continue to destroy our ecosystem and deplete our natural resources.  There is an additional process utilized in Europe as well. Coined the Stratospheric Particle Injection for Climate Engineering or SPICE,  is a United Kingdom government-funded geoengineering research project that aims to assess the feasibility of injecting particles into the stratosphere from a tethered balloon for the purposes of solar radiation management. What could be the reason for this otherwise thre is another grave issue. Why else would there be additional concern for all of the other elements of the practice? Why are the executives intent on hiding and allowing the masses to be misinformed of these gregious offenses towards the society and towards the balance of nature. There have been too many instances where there are other factors. There should always be certain concerns when giving the ultimate decision 

   Who? You and I. We can bring a stop to these horrific acts of blatant disregard for all of our self-ordained right to enjoy our land as best we see fit. 

   When? NOW. Check out the links/articles below to learn more:

http://www.geoengineeringwatch.org 

http://www.sciencedaily.com/terms/climate_engineering.htm 

 

There are also other additional websites that support many other initiatives such as at change.org. 

Thanks for reading! 

Infographic courtesy of http://www.climateviewer.com 

Food for Thought: Eating Sustainably for Environmental Sustainability

  Environmental sustainability sounds intimidating and catches many off guard. It's really a quite simple and applicable concept. By definition: 

Environmental Sustainability -  The maintenance of the factors and practices that contribute to the quality of environment on a long-term basis.

It's a great foundation upon which to build useful and purposed habits and enjoy the benefits of an improved lifestyle.  Eating sustainably means the production of your food doesn’t hurt the environmental systems that we depend on. We must take some level of accountability for our wasteful and degenerative practices in agriculture. There are many ways each of us can carry on a comfortable lifestyle, while improving our environment, supporting our local agricultural economy, improving health and reducing our carbon footprint! If this sounds like something you wouldn't mind devoting effort to, take a look at these quick tips! 

Environment.

   The environment is ours to nurture and allow to flourish. One way we can help our planet earth remain in the natural balance is to eat seasonally. Seasons are a part of the life cycle in many areas of the planet. This allows plant and even animal life to almost seamlessly move through the process of regeneration and rebirth with the beauty only the balance of nature can provide. Through eating seasonally, we allow the ground to replenish the nutrients necessary for a variety of crops to grow healthy and successfully with mineral rich soil. Non-seasonal foods require bending of nature's rules in order for them to survive the improper season in which they are brought into the world. Therefore, these foods are often full of pesticides, waxes, preservatives and other chemicals which naturally compromises the nutritional level of the food. Eating seasonally is not only good for our health and the environment, it can also taste better! A tomato during the  peak of summer season tastes amaze next to any other time of year. Don't take our word for it, try it for yourself and experience the difference. 

 

Community.

   Another easy way to do our part is to eat locally and support our community.  Regardless of where we live, we can consciously purchase locally. For example, I only purchase honey that has been gathered from local bees in our area. This is the concept of "community" that promotes sustainability. When goods are purchased from local farmers, ranchers, and any other eco-agricultural entity in our area, we keep the cycle of a market economy on a smaller scale within our own local community. This provides stability in both the goods and the future viability and sustainability of those providing those goods. Local food is also fresher and tastes better than food that has been trucked or flown in from thousands of miles away. By buying foods grown and raised closer to where you live, you help maintain farmland and green space in your area and help to reduce our  carbon footprint. Knowing where your food is from connects you to the people who raise and grow it and you develop smaller connections to more food sources, as opposed to one grocery chain.  As a manager of local farmers markets, it's great to hear a farmer share with me the joy in realizing there would be no waste on a recent harvest due to community needs. 

Organic.

    Organics. Now that we know about eating seasonally and locally, we can incorporate organics into the mix. Organic food has become quite popular. The term organic actually refers to the way the agricultural products are grown and processed. Making a committment to healthy living fits right in line with the efforts for a more sustainable lifestyle. Organics are better for our planet because organic crops must be grown in safe soil, have no modifications and farmers are not allowed to use synthetic pesticides, bioengineered genes (GMO's), pertorleum based rtilizers nor sewage sludge based fertilizers. Organic livestock must have outdoor access and be nourished with organic feed. This food is usually fresher has more nutritional value and is better for the environment. Organic food promotes environmental sustainability by adhering to production methods that protect the natural habitat. No brainer. 

The R's.

   Recycle, Reuse or Repurpose. The most frequent use of the term sustainability is affiliated with biological or human systems in the context of ecology. Recycling is the cornerstone of sustainability. If we continue at the rate at which we are consuming the Earths natural resources, the Earth will be left depleted unless we change our consumption methods. Composting is an easy and beneficial way to reuse or repurpose. For example, after I finish juicing I have mountains of fiber from the fruit and veggies! Primarily I use it to bake a fresh loaf of brad or a batch of muffins, and usually there is still excess to utilize. The fibrous pulp breaks down quickly and infuses compost with a variety of nutrients. Once the scraps have turned into compost, add them to the garden for healthy soil and robust, high-yielding plants. Just a brief example of how we can reuse, recycle and repurpose just about anything! 

Fair-Trade. 

   The production of some goods, for example coffee, tea and even chocolate, can be detrimental to the environment.  Environmental destruction can include tearing down rain forests, excessive air pollution as well as water pollution. Fair Trade is a system of exchange that honors producers, communities, consumers, AND the environment. It is a model for the global economy rooted in people-to-people connections, justice, and sustainability. Fair trade supports farmers and craftspeople in developing countries who are socially and economically marginalized. Fairtrade certification is a product certification system claiming that products with its brand meet certain environmental, labour, and developmental standards. Therefore, we are guaranteed that we are receiving goods at a fair price and we can contribute to the sustainability of our global community and market economy. 

   These are just a few of the ways we can help build a more sustainable future through a lifestyle committed to strengthening community, promoting the natural order of farming and livestock while protecting the environment in its natural habitat. Hopefully, these may provide an easy introduction to living environmentally sustainably with Organic plus Green!

Happy eating and thanks for reading! 

CC

SOME INFORMATION SOURCED FROM HTTP://WWW.SUSTAINABLETABLE.ORG. AND HTTP://WHOLELIVING.COM AND HTTP://SUSTAINABLE.ORG 

Wanna Yoga?

  

  The age old practice of Yoga is still present. What comes to mind when the word "Yoga" is brought up in the midst of conversation? Hipster? Fad? Boring? Expensive? While these may all be quite certain possibilities, there seems to be a varied perception about the ancient art of Yoga. I am quite aware that this has become a more mainstream initiative with a slew of additional agendas and marketing platforms centered around it. That being shared, the beauty of the mind and body connection from the excercising is one of many benefits. It helps reduce stress, promote vitality,serves as a mood enhancer, increases physical strength, crystallizes mental focus and also keeps us in great fitness. 

  I began practicing almost a year ago. So I'm really considered a newbie, baby yogi, and several other terms of endearment. However, it doesn't take years or decades to experience firsthand the benefits physically, mentally and emotionally that are the result of a decision to practice Yoga. It was right before the Christmas holiday and I had already been on an intense "body journey" that entailed a personal fitness regimen, a guided nutrition plan as well as formatted mental and occasional spiritual excercises. Nothing creepy, just allowed most behaviors or interactions to consciously come from an organic place a kind of genuine awareness about the body, mind, and being as well as my role in it. In the midst of those personal agendas, I also 

juggled hats of a business owner, wife, mother, daughter, friend etc. So, it could not have been introduced to me at a better time! I found a lot of inspiration from a bivy of articles, videos and odd assortments of random information. I also visited local yoga studios to experience the "community" aspect of yoga, which I really enjoy. It was that simple for me. 

  If you are trying to decide if Yoga is the right fit for you, do some research. The most glaring benefit is that it actually benefits both the mind and body! Yes,   it actually improves the cognitive function as well as builds strength and flexibility physically. Recent studies have even suggested that it could limit the genes associated with inflammation, may reduce the aging process on a cellular level, boosts immunity and even ease migraines. If these amazing uses don't suit your fancy, then maybe you could benefit from a better nights sleep? Yoga can significantly improve the sleep quality for many even those suffering from insomnia. Personally, mornings when I  dial in during my session and sequences, I tend to sleep like a log that evening. So from experience, this is a great effect of regular practice. If you are contemplating yoga for weight loss, be mindful that any weight loss goal should be incremental and appropriate for your height and age. However, the practice of yoga definitely allows you to curb certain food cravings  all while boosting sexual performance as well! Yoga soothes chronic back pain, reduces symptoms of depression and for Diabetics lowers blood sugar while speeding up nerve impulses. Awesome. If there is a downside, I don't see one. 

  Ultimately, the personal decision to pursue any fitness regimen, including Yoga is a pivotal one. I started and never looked back and encourage others to do the same. Join in the "Bend don't Break" movement and join the rest of the baby yogis of the world! 

Happy Bending! 

CC

Health, Fitness and Wellness

 

      As the chill gives way to warmer mornings and longer days give us more hours of light to enjoy, this also provides more opportunities. Meaning, this can sometimes bring about a change of heart regarding many areas of improvement. Like many others, I ordinarily see the cliche-laden oaths to "start new" or "change" and will always advocate the decision to simply self improve. I mean, that's exactly how my epiphany became my defining moment. My health via nutrition, my physical fitness as well as my emotional and spiritual wellness all became glaring areas in my life demanding immediate attention by me. For myself, it's almost as if the weather change incites a sense of growth or new beginnings demanding some element, even on a small personal scale, to Evolve. 

       Around this season, sometime ago I also had a pivotal moment of realization regarding my life, health, nutrition and overall wellness. I gradually transitioned from the habit of purchasing food and household products based solely on pricing or marketing exposure, instead purchasing based on actual nutritional content or chemical content. This began my quest down the "rabbit hole" so to speak. I started small with simply reading the table of contents on any products that I wanted to purchase. After realizing that most items in cans and/or boxes are loaded with tons of preservatives and pumped full of sodium, I quickly came to the understanding that buying as many food items that are fresh as opposed to canned or boxed is the better option. This small change was immediately reflected both physically as well as mentally. I felt less tired and more energized, certainly not lethargic or fuzzy in terms of focus. I also experienced a change in appetite towards more fresh foods and high nutritional content items. Eventually, this led to a complete overhaul in how I shop, where I shop and when I purchase food. Some great options include farmers markets (discussed in depth in a January article) , wholesale farmers as well as the fresh selection that is provided locally and offered at grocery chains that support sustainable agriculture initiatives. That way you can be certain there will be many year-round seasonal produce options offered, fresh dairy, and poultry/beef not obtained from a CAFO (Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations). Over the course of several months the information I encountered regarding the business of agriculture forced me to acknowledge the lengths to which the agribusiness is  willing go in pursuits of profit. The foods that have been modified or have had some elements of managed growth processes do not provide as much nutritional value as those that are naturally and organically grown. Armed with that information, the decision was made to only buy those items that have been verified as sustainably resourced as well as not genetically modified. However, any naturally derived products are better by far than any processed products.  Regardless of all other factors, the choice to care for your body properly through nutrition is one of the most instrumental decisions each of us as individuals can make! I encourage anyone I encounter to take that first step towards owning our bodies via purposeful nutrition. 

        Fitness can umbrella so any areas. Sometimes leading to feelings of an overwhelming wealth of information, however with little direction or guidance as to how to incorporate this into a lifestyle. Basically, fitness can include any means by which an individual may remain healthy and physically fit. This also defines the capability of our bodies to effectively distribute inhaled oxygen to muscle tissue during increased physical effort. Simply put, being in appropriate shape to handle a specific task without dying or passing out from sheer lack of capacity. Pushing beyond limits can not only be reckless but may also serve to be dangerous in some scenarios. For example, many years ago my mother invited me to accompany her to a new and local yoga studio in her area. We were excited and actually enjoyed the session thoroughly, until my mom quietly leaned over and whispered "I feel like I can't breathe. I'm running out of air". Now, truthfully I was certain she could in fact breathe and that there was no shortage of oxygen specifically around her as I was breathing comfortably. However, on the same token I understood that she was at a point of severe fatigue and sheer exhaustion. She was advised by the class facilitator that a brief moment for her to regain composure was perfectly welcome and even understandable. We enjoyed the class and ended up having a terrific experience together. However, I shared this memory only to convey that regardless of whatever fitness regimen you decide on....begin gradually.  We should familiarize ourselves to the stages of growth in that particular area, develop our skills correctly and effectively through guarded repitition, educate ourselves regarding the process of being successful in that area and most importantly listen to the body. Whether you fancy basketball, hockey, dance, soccer or are an avid runner, the principle of gaining your fitness remain the same. Even when I'm in a slump or not feeling particularly fantastic about my progress in an area, I always come back to the realization that - It is a process. Dedicate the time to develop, invest the energy to educate and provide the committment to become physically fit. The path to fitness is paved with sweat and determination so don't hesitate, activate! 

          Wellness is an approach. It is the process by which a person actively pursues a balance. Moreover, it is the quality and state of being healthy in body AND mind especially as the result of a deliberate effort. I am an advocate of the approach to health care that focuses on preventing illness and prolonging life, as opposed to simply treating disease. Wellness chooses a more holistic approach to life and living. You can control the outcome of experiences by maintaining proper diet,excercising and lifestyle habits. As I'm sharing I feel the overwhelming urge to either shout, cry and even jump...lol. Mainly because  I have and am personally applying these techniques and working on these same virtues day in and out. Wellness kind of encompasses all of the results of making the aforementioned changes, maybe in how you eat or in deciding to hop on the treadmill twice a week. It's the fundamental Joy and Love we begin to develop in and of ourselves for ourself. It's quite empowering! The understanding is grounded in the concept that we must nurture both our mind and body to fully experience our most loving, giving, trusting and accepting self, so that we may encourage others. The coupling of the mind and body can provide wonders to both self-esteem and self-actualization. Mental health can be described as a state of well-being in which an individual realizes their abilities and can cope with life stresses, work productively and fruitfully as well as able to make a contribution to their community. Kind of hard to change the world or make a positive impact in the lives of friend and family, when we are not balanced within. 

            The power of any journey towards a goal begins within. 

CC

                

      

     

To Juice or not to Juice

       Kale, Spinach & Celery- Mean Green 

    

        

  Initially considered a passing fad, juicing has become a hit amongst health gurus and fitness aficionados across the globe. Most commonly this is seen in a lot of celebrity diets, health detox programs and organic lifestyles. Truth is, I hesitate to support any extreme "diet" or spontaneous "cleanse" with no clear purpose as to the benefits and/or dangers. In general, appropriately planned and purposed detox events or fasts in conjunction with a well balanced nutrition plan can work wonders. Some can regulate pH levels, aide in blood flow and provide the immune a system boosts for increased energy levels. Juicing and juicing "diets" have been around for a while and many people have used them as a springboard towards a healthier lifestyle. Juicing is somewhat like fasting, which can be healthy if done in moderation and only for a short period of time.

    Primarily, juicing is great for the body. There are more positive effects than negative when determining the usefulness of incorporating this into a healthy lifestyle. Juicing provides all the same vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients as eating whole fruits and vegetables, and the water content can help you stay hydrated. Juicing is an easy way to shower your body with concentrated amounts of nutrient-packed vegetables and fruit. Plus, these drinks are automatically low in ingredients to avoid, like toxic fats, added sugars and salt. Juicing in moderation can help you consume essentials nutrients, however there's no sound scientific evidence that extracted juices are healthier than the juice you get by eating the fruit or vegetable itself. It is encouraged when juicing to focus on the vegetable intake as opposed to the fruits. There are three main reasons to consider vegetable juicing: first, as stated, it allows absorbtion all the nutrients from vegetables, second it  allows consumption of an optimal amount of vegetables in an efficient manner, and a variety of vegetables can be incorporated into a diet.While you can certainly juice fruits, being overweight, having high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol provides risk. It is best to limit using fruits until these conditions are normalized. A juice cleanse can help to provide a certain degree of mental clarity and increase focus. This may even serve as the opportunity for some to prioritize their life or reflect on things that they'd like to change. Seems purposeful indeed. 

   One of the reasons behind recommendations for  only short-lived juicing events is due to the nutritional content. Juicing sacrifices fiber. When juicing fruits and vegetables, nutrients and water are extracted from the fibrous pulp, which is usually discarded. Unless used as  pulp for soups, salads or some other food, this is essentially throwing away fiber which is a very important part of a nutritious diet. Without fiber, digestive health problems become a risk. Fiber also helps provide a full and satisfied feeling. You’ll need a lot of juice to satisfy your hunger if you aren’t getting enough fiber. Ok so, juicing can get expensive when compared to eating whole fruits and vegetables. Mainly because it requires special equipment, including a juice extractor, quality knives and storage containers. Inevitably, because of the quantity of veggies and fruits needed to properly juice, plan to spend spend more money on produce. In addition to quantity, there's also the quality of food to consider. Advocats of juicing tend to encourage buying organic fruits and vegetables , a much pricier option than standard produce. Another factor to consider is the risk of contamination. Raw fruits and vegetables contain microbes, some of which may cause food poisoning, gastroenteritis or even death. E. coli, salmonella and other deadly microorganisms can be lurking in produce and contaminate fresh juices. Without heat sterilization, there is nothing to protect against sickness. For this reason, people with weakened immune systems or those on low microbial diets should not drink raw juices.

    One universal warning regarded during research is that it is not recommended to  engage in a juicing diet if it lasts over three days. After this period of time the body will begin to suffer because there is a lack of nutrition. Juicing extracts the fiber and other essential elements of the fruit that are found in the skin and pulp, therefore it is not the same nutrition as when you simply eating fruits and vegetables. There are certain limitations made by conditions and other autoimmune deficiencies that may not allow some to enjoy the benefits. For example, anyone suffering from Diabetes, Iron deficiencies, those receiving chemotherapy for cancer or even some forms of kidney disease would not benefit from this method. Mostly because of the malabsorption complexities involved with these illnesses. Juicing or juice fasting for those with diabetes could send blood sugar levels through the roof. For those with kidney disease, high levels of potassium and minerals can build up in the blood to hazardous levels. And for people undergoing chemo, juicing is not recommended because of the high levels of antioxidants and low levels of protein when juicing. 

   Juicing can be highly beneficial, when utilized in an appropriate and purposeful manner. Frankly, the benefits are appealing despite being short lived. 

Happy Juicing! 

 CC

   

  

 

  

What is Magnetic Therapy?

   

       

 I received my first piece of magnetic jewelry and really felt completely ignorant of its uses, affects and possible benefit for my health. I was immediately impressed by the appearance of the bracelet. I was admittedly skeptical. It is a beautiful piece of jewelry. My particular piece is the Magnetic Bracelet Scalar Energy Healing Power Hearts design. So, I started there in terms of beginning to educate myself. What is a magnetic scalar energy bracelet exactly, even more how can magnetic therapy improve my overall health? 

 Magnetic bracelets are thought to have therapeutic value because of their possible influence over blood flow around the wrist arteries. It is thought that the magnetism emitting from the bracelet increases the electrical conductivity of the blood and increases the amount of ions (atoms that carry electric charges). The ionization process is believed to improve the efficiency of blood flow. Supporters of magnetic bracelets and other types of magnetic therapy maintain the healing powers of magnets can speed up metabolism and produce a less acidic atmosphere in the body. Thereby balancing pH levels to a small degree. The American Cancer Society (ACS) says many proponents of magnets believe cancer cells cannot live in environment where acid is low, so magnetic therapy can therefore stop the spread of tumors. Proponents also maintain magnetic fields can adjust nerve impulses, reduce fatty deposits on artery walls, and even modify the thinking process to boost emotional well-being. Sounds like a win-win to me.

 So what is the therapy? Magnetic therapy is the attempt to improve symptoms and possibly treat illnesses naturally by the application of a magnetic field to the human body. This achieved by the use of therapeutic spot magnets or by the fashionable use of magnetic jewelry. Magnetic therapy is a safe, non-invasive method of applying magnetic fields to the body for therapeutic purposes. It has been found to speed the healing processes and improve quality of sleep without any adverse reactions. Magnetic therapy can be used independently or in conjunction with other treatment. Magnetic therapy has also been found to be very effective for the relief of discomfort due to joint and muscle pain, inflammation and stiffness. Magnetic therapy has been documented all through history. Many experts have noted Chinese medical text dating back 2000 years verifying the use of magnet's on the human body for the treatment of various conditions. More recently, clinical studies conducted in the United States, have shown magnetic therapy to be an effective method of relieving pain and discomfort. Some research has indicated that the application of a magnetic field to an injured area helps to restore the normal electro-magnetic balance, relieving pain and inflammation while promoting accelerated healing. 

 

  Although my experience is with the bracelet only, there are many forms of magnetic therapy that can be used as a means of non invasive relief for certain pains or conditions. Magnetic therapy should not be confused with pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMFT), which is used for bone healing and, more recently, for depression. In PEMFT, instead of a relatively weak static magnet, doctors use a special machine to apply pulses of intense electromagnetic therapy to the affected area to initiate healing.  For bone fractures, the pulses induce electrical signals at a subcellular level that stimulate chemicals in the cells to repair damaged tissue.This therapy dates back to the early 1900s and Nikola Tesla, one of the pioneers in the use of electricity.  With numerous supportive studies published, the medical establishment now widely accepts PEMFT for certain types of bone fracture repair.  PEMFT for pain management, wound healing and depression appears promising, according to medical studies, but this use of PEMFT is generally less accepted by medical practitioners. However, this technique also demonstrates the range is uses for magnetic therapy.

   I want to admit that I have felt a difference since wearing the jewelry. I feel just a bit less sluggish   and a touch more focused. Not certain if fully attributable to the bracelet, or if I'm simply wanting it to be more. I will continue to wear the jewelry in hopes of experiencing some tangible benefit. I'm open to it!

CC

   

  

 

  

Winter Blues and Sun Salutations

    Image courtesy of NutrtionResearch101  

    Winter Blues got you? There is more truth to this phrase than I had previously thought. It has been proven that certain geographical areas suffer a condition titled Seasonal Affective Disorder which as been attributed to the fluctuating swings in mood and disposition based on the climate. This is usually associated with low motivation and even some elements of depression. Why? Because the lack of exposure to Vitamin D (which is found in natural sunlight), can affect us in more ways than just skin tone. A trend of low Vitamin D levels or a Vitamin D deficiency is our reality. This is about health and wellness as a collective group.

   The major source of vitamin D occurs naturally from the sun, so limiting our exposure to it has the biggest impact on vitamin D deficiency. We have all heard about the dangers of skin cancer and the need for sunscreen to protect us from possibly developing this condition. Unfortunately, no one discusses the dangers of NOT getting vitamin D from the sun and ways to compensate for it. Using a sunscreen with SPF of 30 decreases vitamin D synthesis in the skin by more than 95%. Even if you do have access to the sun, the total amount of vitamin D you can produce is affected by the season, time of day, ozone amount, latitude, and number of clouds in the sky.   After investigating and further researching the prevalence of this in our population, it was surprising to discover that this is more common than originally speculated. I have years of studio dance and now currently a Yoga/Pilates aficionado with frequent Zumba use and subsequently now find myself curious about my bone health and the severe stress I may have inflicted on my frame. I also, wanted to discover natural and organic measures to in a sense "re-build" and "maintain" a healthy vitamin D intake through simple organic remedies and more effective habits through nutrition.

        

  Vitamin D helps your body absorb calcium. Calcium is one of the main building blocks of bone. A lack of vitamin D can lead to bone diseases such as Osteoporosis and a Rickets. Vitamin D also has a role in your nerve, muscle and immune systems.  You can get vitamin D in three ways: through your skin, from your diet, and from supplements (not recommend)ed regularly). Your body forms vitamin D naturally after exposure to sunlight.   In humans, the most important compounds in this group are vitamin D3 and vitamin D2. The most common deficiency experienced is from the Vitamin D3.Many of the causes of deficiency include but are not limited to many of the following factors. Most obviously, not consuming the recommended levels of the vitamin over time can be considered most common. However, this is more likely if following a strict vegetarian diet, because most of the natural sources are animal-based, including fish and fish oils, egg yolks, cheese, fortified milk, and beef liver. Another simple fix is limited sunlight exposure. Because the body makes vitamin D when your skin is exposed to the natural sunlight, there may be a risk of deficiency if you are homebound, live in northern latitudes, or have an occupation that prevents sun exposure. Also, deficiencies can be the result of the inability of kidneys to convert vitamin D to its active form. For some, as they age their kidneys are less able to convert vitamin D to its active form, thus increasing their risk of vitamin D deficiency.

Certain medical problems, including Crohn's disease, cystic fibrosis, and celiac disease, can affect your intestine's ability to absorb vitamin D from the food you eat. This may be associated with other malabsorption type conditions. There are other holistic remedies that can be implemented to aide in the control of this condition.

   There are some creative, natural and enjoyable measures that can be taken in an effort to combat low levels. Outdoor activities are fun, since even as little as up to ten minutes in the sun can serve a benefit health wise. However, the most effective method can be devised through proper nutrition and healthcare and may also be maintained through attention to diet and consumption. Foods that can help contribute to low levels of Vitamin D can be used to aide in combating deficiencies. Mostly the nutrient rich fruits and vegetables needed may be found at the local farmers markets. However, be sure to check seasonal offerings as some may be unattainable.Essential oils do not contain vitamins. Why?Vitamins are either fat/lipid soluble or water soluble. Since essential oils do not contain water or fat/lipid, they would not be able to ‘hold’ vitamins within them and so would not serve as necessary dietary vitamins. Would have really enjoyed sharing the benefits of essential oils, but here are some other great sources of the vitamin.

   Cod liver oil has been a popular supplement for many years and naturally contains very high levels of Vitamin A and D. Caviar is a common ingredient in sushi and more affordable and accessible than you may think. Eggs.In addition to vitamin D, eggs are a good source of vitamin B12 protein. Mushrooms are more than just a high vitamin D food, mushrooms also provide Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) and copper. Lightly cooked white button mushrooms provide the most vitamin D. Fish is the most common source. Various types of fish are high in vitamin D. Typically raw fish contains more vitamin D than cooked, and fatty cuts will contain more than lean cuts. Further, fish canned in oil will have more vitamin D than those canned in water. Raw fish is typically eaten in the form of sushi. Raw Atlantic Herring provides the most vitamin D.

Oysters. In addition to vitamin D, Oysters are a great source of vitamin b12, zinc, iron, manganese, selenium, and copper. Oysters are also high in cholesterol and should be eaten in moderation by people at risk of heart disease or stroke. These are just some and not an exhaustive list of natural sources of Vitamin D.

  As in all things, use moderation and discernment when addressing health and wellness. Sun Salutations

CC