Wednesday, February 29, 2012

Day 6/ Reintegration: Wild thing... I think I love ya....

I was so wired on high energy and sauerkraut last night I had to get my 'Dandelion Tincture' out and root back down.....Happy Leap Day!!!!

Last day of February.... I don't know about you, but this winter has just flown by me. Tomorrow is March ,  which to me means Spring is around the corner! So get spotting.. our wild things will soon be here!
I love wild things. Wild foods are an important and forgotten part of our diet. They are the richest in nutrients, life force, and have survived mother nature's cycles without 'our help'. They are tough, and gentle at the same time, and our bodies thrive on them. By incorporating Wild foods into our diet, we become one with the natural world. "Wild foods, microbial cultures included, possess a great, unmediated life force, which can help us adapt to shifting conditions and lower our susceptibility to disease."- Sandor Katz. Author of Wild Fermentation.


Benefits of Wild Edible Plants

There are numerous benefits to eating wild edibles such as:
  • They are free.
  • They are genetically stronger than other food.
  • Nutritionally speaking they are beyond organics!
  • Longer root systems make most weeds drought-resistant.
  • Most edible plants and weeds are more nutritious than hybridized store produce.
  • Eating local wild plants means that the plant fights off the same organisms as your body therefore making them highly beneficial for the immune system.
Last night, or rather, quite early this morning, I took out my Dandelion Tincture I made last May. They last for a very long time and this year I made a huge batch of it! Dandelion is well known for its diuretic and blood purifying properties. It helps flush toxins and excess salt out from the kidneys. It helps build immunity and strengthens the liver and gallbladder and aids in their detoxification. It's bitter taste stimulates the digestive system.


Making your own Tincture is easy and well worth the effort, so put away your spray and get your shovel! Dandelion roots here you go!


Dandelion Tincture Recipe:



  • Gather several dandelion roots from your garden and chop them up into small pieces (i am tempted to say sidewalk too, but depending where you leave that may not be such a good idea!).
  • Fill a quart-size jar halfway with dandelion root. Pour 80-90 percent proof vodka over the root until 2 - 3 inches above the root. Cover with a cheese cloth and then close tightly. Place in cupboard (away from light).
  • Shake daily for a month. If the root expands above the liquid add more vodka. Keeping the root submerged in alcohol keeps the root from breeding bacteria.
  • After a month, place cheese cloth in a mesh strainer over a measuring cup. Pour tincture through strainer. Pour into a dark coloured bottle with a dropper lid. Voila!! A few drops in your tongue is all you need.


  • __
    "Deep in their roots, all flowers keep the light."
    - Theodore Roethke, poet

    __

    Tuesday, February 28, 2012

    Day 5/ Reintegration: Holy Kraut! I am full of it!

    Yes I love my Krauts... Sauerkraut's that is!


    Nothing like unpasteurized (raw) bubbly Sauerkraut... rich, spicy or not, sweet or tangy on the tongue... It's filled with oodles of probiotics for the gut, making your intestines happy, and your body shine from the inside out! There is really no comparison between the "live" version of probiotics and the "over the counter" version.


    Sauerkraut is the name given to the process of fermenting vegetables, cabbage is a common ingredient but it doesn't have to be the only one! In the lacto-fermentation or "culturing" process the friendly bacteria already present in the vegetables convert the starches and sugars into lactic acid creating more Lactobacilli (probiotics). There are lots of options when it comes down to it, and lots of different health benefits that stem from your choices as always.


    Sauerkraut, Kim chi, Fermented coconut water kefir, Rejuvelac all have a number of common well known health benefits on their resumes... worth taking a look?


    They are well known for:
    ∗ Increasing nutrient bioavailability: increasing your body's ability to absorb the nutrients you consume.
    ∗ Boosting our immune system: probiotics help friendly bacteria colonize the intestines and keeping potentially harmful bacteria in check. 
    ∗ Decrease inflammation: eating small amounts of Sauerkraut daily can help with inflammation of the colon. It also helps to keep Candida in check.
    ∗ Regular bowel movements
    ∗ Very high in Vitamin C and digestive enzymes.


    Ready for the goodness? Get your mason jars out, or undust your grandmother's ceramic crock if you got one .... here are two delicious recipes my family loves... yeap.. my kids fight over it!


    Simple Sauerkraut Recipe:
    3 heads of green Cabbage, shredded in food processor (keep a few outer leaves intact aside)
    6 large carrots, shredded in food processor
    3 inch piece of ginger, peeled and chopped
    6 cloves of garlic, peeled and chopped
    4 cups of water
    Several 1 Litre wide mouth mason jars sterilized in the dishwasher.


    Mix all ingredients together in a large bowl. 
    Remove 3 cups of the shredded mix and place together with the water into blender. Blend until smooth to create the 'Brine'. It should look like a thick juice.
    Mix 'Brine' back into the bowl with the shredded vegetables and massage well.
    Tightly pack vegetables and brine into the mason jars. (Use your hands or wooden spoon). Leave 2 inches at the top.

    Press the cabbage down firmly to cover it with the Brine and place the cabbage leaves you had left aside on top. Roll them up to create "logs" and place them down against the top of the jar. 
    Place a cheese cloth with an elastic band around the mouth of the jar and close the jar with the lid.

    Let the culture sit at room temperature (about 70 degrees is best) for at least 3 days, a week is even better. The longer they ferment the more "pickled" they will taste. Refrigerate to slow down the fermentation process.

    Your culture should be alive and bubbly !!!


    Live Kim chi
    3 heads Napa Cabbage, shredded in food processor or chopped into 1/4" strips (keep a few outer leaves intact aside)
    3 cups of water
    5 tablespoons dried paprika powder
    6 large cloves garlic
    10 Medjool dates
    1 - 3 inch long piece ginger
    3 TBS salt
    1/4 cup lemon juice
    3 hot peppers
    1 packet vegan kefir starter (available health food stores)
    1 sterilized glass gallon jar (wide mouth jars are best!). I sterilize mine in the dishwasher.


    Tightly pack the cabbage into the glass gallon jar leaving about 2 inches at the top. (Use your hands or a wooden spoon)
    Blend all remaining ingredients for 1 minute until smooth to create the Brine, and pour into gallon jar, completely submerging the cabbage. 
    Shake and move the jar around to make sure the Brine reaches all areas of the jar. 
    Press the cabbage down firmly to cover it with the Brine and place the cabbage leaves you had left aside on top. Roll them up to create "logs" and place them down against the top of the jar. 
    Place a cheese cloth with an elastic band around the mouth of the jar and close the jar with the lid.


    Let the culture sit at room temperature (about 70 degrees is best) for at least 3 days, a week is even better. The longer they ferment the more "pickled" they will taste. Refrigerate to slow down the fermentation process.


    Your culture should be alive and bubbly !!!




    Now I know there are only so many of us Kraut lovers who can open up a jar and eat it up straight.... mmmh, but to those of you who are not quite ready for that just yet, there are many ways to integrate your Krauts, Kim chi's and other fermented goodies into your life. I often add them to salads, roll them up into my kale rolls, or simply add to them as a side to any meal.


    Here is a simply recipe for an explosion in your mouth kinda salad. I made it yesterday and was happy to welcome back my dear friend the Kraut into my life.




    Rainbow explosion in your mouth kind-a salad:
    a few hand fulls red cabbage sprouts (any sprouts will do)
    3 Celery stalks, chopped
    1 grapefruit
    1/2 cup blueberries
    2 TBS black sesame seeds
    a few TBS of Sauerkraut (trust your tummy)
    small strip of Dulse (seaweed, cut into small pieces)
    Flax seed or Hemp seed Oil (optional- I left those out yesterday)


    Mix all ingredients together and get ready for a one of a kind taste sensation in your mouth! 




    So there you go, tonight I am full of it!, full of recipes for you that is.


    As the days go on I will continue to post, but will focus on new explorations in the kitchen, all things yoga, meditation, breath and health! I will not be posting so much my every bite, but more so my every inspiration!
    __
    "Exploration is really the essence of the human spirit."
    Frank Borman
    __


    It's been a full and busy day and I have been exploring new taste sensations in my kitchen so much I don't remember all I have had! It's been good. I've continued juicing,  I have reintegrated greens and salads yesterday and today. Tonight I was daring and tried my delicious dahl (cooked lentil recipe) and have not had any reactions!!!! So far so good.






    Monday, February 27, 2012

    Day 4/ Reintegration: soothe the skin you are in!

    I have been soothing my skin with  a Salve I made here at home that is making the rash on my right hand go away and it's making my skin sooo smooth, it's just pure lovely goodness: all natural, no un welcomed gifts, no chemicals, no side effects!

    So here is the Magic Skin Salve:

    Irish Moss (small piece)
    1/2 cup Water
    1/4 cup Aloe Vera Juice
    2 TBS Coconut oil (if it's hard gently heat to melt- careful not to boil.)
    5 drops Essential oil of your choice. (optional)

    There is two ways to prepare Irish Moss, one is raw, one is cooked.

    Raw preparation of Irish Moss:
    Rinse the Irish Moss throughly several times until there is not sand in it. Soak the small piece of Irish Moss in the 1/2 cup of water overnight. Blend together to create a paste.

    Cooked preparation of Irish Moss:
    Rinse the Irish Moss throughly several times until there is not sand in it. Place the small piece of Irish Moss in a pot along with the 1/2 cup of water. Bring to boil and simmer for 15 min. Turn off. Let it cool down a bit, blend to create a paste.

    Blend together all the ingredients. Store in glass jar in a cool place or in the fridge for 2-3 weeks.


    Now what on earth is Irish Moss... yes yes... I can hear you think too!

    Irish Moss is a little miracle I discovered a few months back. It is a seaweed superstar!!!

    Irish moss is now thought to contain 15 of the 18 essential elements that make up the human body. This includes great amounts calcium, iodine, sulphur, and potassium as well as Vitamins A, D, E, F and K. This is why this most amazing seaweed is thought to be able to cure everything from bladder disorders, bronchitis, bad breath, intestinal disorders and glandular problems to swollen joints, lung difficulties, thyroid conditions, tuberculosis, tumors, and ulcers. It is antibacterial and antiviral, it soothes the mucous membranes in the body and aids with digestion discomfort. When used topically it is be helps to soothe skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, dermatitis, sunburn, and chapped skin. 

    Not bad at all!!

    I make lots of things with it, from putting it in my tea brews, chai's, to using it as a binding agent in rawlly good desserts that everyone loves! It's taste really blends well with anything.

    You can purchase Irish Moss online at www.upayanaturals.com
    __
    "Beauty, to me, is about being comfortable in your own skin. That, or a kick-ass red lipstick."
    Gwyneth Paltrow.
    __

    Morning: Arugula, carrot, celery, apple, lemon. 16 oz.
    Mid morning: Bowl of raspberries, mango, hemp seeds, raw honey, sprouted flax and chia seeds. Tea: Burdock root, Chaga tea. "Almond Toast" (dehydrated).
    Lunch: grapefruit, celery, blueberries, dulse, unpasteurized Sauerkraut, black sesame seeds super salad!
    Afternoon: Almonds.
    Dinner: Orange, carrot, ginger Juice. 28 oz.






    Sunday, February 26, 2012

    Day 3/ Reintegration: creating change in your world.

    Change happens slowly for some, fast for others. What kind of changes have you noticed in your life lately?

    We often are focused on getting to the yoga matt, on getting the meditation class, on getting to the place of stillness away from the 'world'. But what happens to the world around us as we begins to change? Most often it changes with us.

    I have noticed a huge ripple effect stemming from my choices and actions during the past 40- so days and I am sooo delighted to see those changes in my family, my parents, and my friends! One juice at a time, one smoothie at a time, one veggie and fruit at a time! It actually happens.

    So a pat on the back to you! for embarking on the journey of change, on the journey of taking better care of yourselves and those around you. Love your new juicers, love your new commitment, and make it as delicious as you can !!! when the changes feel good, and we you begin to see the goodness that comes into your life ... those changes become easier to integrate as your lifestyle.

    But what happens if change is hard for us? What happens when we are overwhelmed and resist the change? Most often, struggle, stress and conflict happens. If you find yourself in this space, breathe, deeply breathe. Anything is possible. Make the steps on the journey you seek smaller so they are easier to manage. And tap into the community you seek. You are never alone on this journey. Seek the support you need and trust the process. Those who may not understand or support you now, might have an "ah Ha" moment of their own as they witness your journey. This is about you, not them. In your hands you hold the gift of your life. LIVE WHAT YOU LOVE.

    __
    "Be the change you want to see in the world"- Mahatma Gandhi.
    __

    Morning: Celery, cucumber, purple kale, carrot, apple, lemon. 40 oz.
    Mid morning: red pear, cucumber. (not juiced)
    Lunch: Bowl of strawberries, blueberries with hemp seeds, almonds. Tea: burdock, astragalus, chaga tea.
    Dinner: Purple Kale, apple, pear, ginger, 5 oz wheatgrass. 40 oz. Few pieces of celery and cucumber.



    Saturday, February 25, 2012

    Day 2/ Reintegration: Making your brews!

    I love making my tea brews. Getting to know your herbs, roots and the power of their combinations is truly liberating. Most commercial teas have added gifts just for you that you may not want. Buying the herbs and roots on their own or in small combinations without any additives is best!. Here are a few herbs and their healing powers for you to start experimenting with.

    Chaga Mushroom
    Astragalus root
    Burdock root
    Catnip
    Cat claw
    Goji berries
    Palo d'arco

    Let the herb steep in hot water for about 5 -10 min. then enjoy. Some people like to simmer the herbs/roots for 20 min or so to pull all the 'goodness' out of them, then let it sit and enjoy!. For me I just do the steeping, otherwise it gets too strong for me. It's a personal choice. Get to know your body.

    Here is a recipe for the Best Chai Ever! using the tea from above as a starting base. Use any and/ or all the herbs or in combination.... see what you like.

    The Best Chai Tea ever!
    4 cups of brewed tea from the herbs above (one or in combination).
    1 cup of almonds (soaked overnight in water)
    1 1/2 Tbs Ginger
    2 tsp cinnamon
    1/4 tsp. nutmeg
    1/2 tsp. cardamon
    1 tsp. all spice
    1/4 tsp. black pepper or 4 black pepper balls
    pinch sea salt
    1 tsp. Vanilla extract
    1/4 cup soft dates (medjool works great)
    2 Tbs. raw honey

    Rinse soaked almonds and blend with the tea and all other ingredients at high speed until smooth. Pour through a fine strainer or nut milk bag. Adjust taste if necessary. Gently heat it up and warm your soul! It's sooo rawllygood!

    __
    "Live what you love."- Unknown.
    __

    Morning: blueberries and a few raspberries. Tea of the day: burdock root, astragalus root, Chaga, catnip.
    Mid morning: Melon.
    Soon After: Parsley, fennel, celery, carrot, orange, grapefruit, ginger, 5 oz wheatgrass. 50 oz.
    Lunch: Red grape, green apple, grapefruit. 16 oz.
    Soon After: Collard, spinach, celery, cucumber, lemon, apple. 40 oz.
    Dinner: Spinach, celery, carrot, apple, ginger. 16 oz.
    As I write: cup of hot water with Unpasteurized Miso.


    Friday, February 24, 2012

    Day 1/ Reintegration: harder than juicing!

    Now that I know the juice fast is done, I found it challenging to only have the prunes... so I ate an apple too! I was hungry for lots of them, but I stuck with one in hopes that my system copes with the process of reintegration.

    Tomorrow I will be able to dig into water based fruits and I am so looking forward to that!

    Coping. Stress. Words we are all familiar with. Here is a video I have found touching and inspiring. It is about the implementation of Meditation as a tool for coping with stress in a troubled school in San Francisco. 


    "Surrounded by poverty and escalating violence, a San Francisco middle school committed to peace and embraced a program of meditation that has made students feel safer, teachers more productive, and brought unity and purpose to the school."

    Incredible, isn't it?

    __
    "Root out the violence in your life, and learn to live compassionately nad mindfully. Seek peace. When you have peace within, real peace with other is possible." -Thich Nhat Hanh
    __

    Before juicing: 6 oz prunes soaked in water and their water.
    Morning collard, chard, lemon,apple,ginger. 10 oz.
    Soon after: parsley, purple kale, cucumber, apple, coconut water, 5 oz. wheatgrass. 50 oz.
    Lunch: 6 oz prunes soaked in water and their water.
    Mid Afternoon: Pak choi, asian pear, celery, lemon, arugula sprouts, carrot. 40 oz.
    Later: sliced apple. (not juiced).
    Dinner: Pear, apple, ginger, cinnamon. 20 oz.

    Note: way too many prunes!!!! wooo.

    I have a rash on my right hand. It came a few days back, but today it is bigger. Red, hot and it is making my right hand very dry, almost like sand paper dry. Not sure what it is. Hoping it is part of the healing.

    Thursday, February 23, 2012

    Day 40/40: can you see the extra bounce in my step? this RAWllygood thing is here to stay!





    DAY 40 OF 40!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and the sun is shining!

    Can you see the extra bounce in my step? the extra big smile on my face? I have done what I set out to do and more!

    Today I completed my 40 day Juice Feast, my 40 minutes for 40 days Meditation practice and my yoga Asana practice. What a ride!

    The last 40 days have been the beginning of a new journey for me. All I have done is here to stay. The juices will stay, obviously not as much daily. I will do 2 daily after my reintegration period. The 40 min a day Meditation practice is here to stay, as is my Yoga Asana practice, which I actually would like to lengthen. 

    I have loved the whole journey. I have written about this before, I have approached this journey from a different place in my heart, a place of peace, where my mind and body together made the choice, a place of surrender to life's mystery. I have felt carried, supported and loved the whole way through. I did not struggle overall with the Juice Fast in the way I had previously struggled before when I had done 10 days and 7 day Juice Fasts. I felt constantly riding the wave, at times challenged by it, but the commitment within was so strong that there was never questioning thoughts of what I was doing or thoughts of not going all the way.

    The meditation gave me the gift of sweetness, of space, of learning to be the witness to 'my story' while living it!, of feeling more grounded. It connected me with my breath, with it's power to heal and transform. It has given me 5 precious minutes with my kids at night before they go to bed, where we sit and meditate together, connecting with each other at the heart. It has given me the power to rejuvenate after I have been up through the night with my toddler. (yes, the little sweet rascal did it again last night!!#@#!!!). It has allowed me to get to know my mind at a deeper level, my habits, my patterns of thought and behaviour, what I see as my 'limits' and the ability to go beyond them. I feel more at peace with myself and the world. Over the last 40 days, I have sat for 40  minutes a day. I have tried to do 30 min in the morning and 10 before bed. I have found that to work best for me. The 30 min. get me ready for the day, the 10 min. allow me to reconnect before bed. There is a different flow to my days. I know I will take care of myself, no matter what I will sit, and it's made a huge difference in my world.

    The yoga asana, has allowed me to connect with my breath while moving. I see it as a moving meditation. It has allowed me to connect deeper with my energy and with the energies around me. It also allows me to go deeper into my meditation practice, as I usually do it before I sit to meditate for 30 min.

    The Juice Feast, has provided my body with oodles and oodles of liters of fresh vegetable and fruit juices. A super High nutrition that I would never be able to eat my way through. It has given my internal organs a break from their 'jobs' to gather and collect their energies for the benefits of my whole body. As much as they have been 'on vacation', they have been working on breaking down the cells that are no longer healthy or useful, repairing and rebuilding. A fast forward jump to the next level!.

    The synergy of the 3 together has been exponential! The one feeds and supports the other, all allowing me to connect with my inner warrior, with my strength, courage, edge, peace, love, acceptance, laughter and compassion. My own true nature and the source of my being: my spirit. At times when I felt challenged, one of them, if not all supported the process. They have allowed me to heal deeply in ways I am not yet conscious of. They have given me the gift of experiencing that anything is possible.

    As I sat in meditation today I felt a lot of gratitude, for everything and everyone!! I feel grounded and happy. I broke the fast with the sweetness of the water I soaked the prunes with. It was like drinking nectar, sweet delicious, an explosion in my mouth. Then, slowly I ate the organic prunes. I have to admit I was a bit giddy to be eating them! What a sensation to be eating again! I have noticed through the fast my sense of smell getting stronger and sharper. Yes, I can tell you what you had for breakfast today right now! (just kidding). The texture of the prunes was so soft and welcoming. I had 8 oz of prunes soaked in water for 8 hrs. That will be my meal of the day. Before and after "da meal" I continued to juice.

    I started this journey weighing 138 pounds. I am now 125 pounds. I have lost 13 pounds. I did not start the Juice fast with the intention of loosing weight, nor did I really think I would loose this much!. But I am not worried about it, as I start to reintegrate foods into my days, the weight will come back and the body will balance itself out. 

    Now onto the great news!... This RAWllygood thing is here to stay!!! yeap. I will be writing about my process of reintegration over the next week or so. Then I will continue to share with you all things health, yoga, asana, meditation, and delicious plant based mainly raw foods from my kitchen to yours!!!

    My husband always says I am a bit of a mad scientist in the kitchen, I use every dish and appliance... and voila!!! It seems as if the Tazmanian Devil has been through my kitchen.... I love it! mmmhhh so RAWllygood. Now I have an excuse to invite MR. TD over  more often!!!! Ha!

    So stay connected 'cause there is more to come!

    Thank you for being my community and a big part of my strength in this process. Thank you for your calls, your emails, your words of encouragement. I have loved and cherished them all. Thank you for sharing your stories of inspiration with me. Thank you for taking the time to see what is possible for you.


    __
    "We all have possibilities we don't know about. We can do things we don't even dream we can do."
    Dale Carnegie.
    __



    Morning: Collard, celery, carrot, orange, strawberry, gooseberries, 5 oz. wheatgrass. 60 oz.
    Mid morning: coconut water. 18 oz.
    Lunch: cup of Honeybush Vanilla tea.
    Mid afternoon: Kale, celery, cucumber, mint, green apple, ginger. 40 oz.
    Dinner: Kale, celery, fennel, carrot, orange, grapefruit. 50 oz.
    As I write: 3 cups of hot water with Unpasteurized Miso.




    Wednesday, February 22, 2012

    Day 39: finding my inner warrior.... one day left!!

    Today, I had to dig and find my inner warrior. That place of greater strength, determination, knowing, awareness, love: my edge.


    Today, I feel there is nothing in this world I can not do. I am one day away from my 40 day Juice Feast and 40 day meditation commitment to myself. I feel as though I am about to receive a big present! and I am the sender of the gift. I feel strong and as much as yesterday was one of my most challenging days on the Juice Feast, the challenge has allowed me to tap on to greater strength.


    As I think and feel my way through the last 39 days, what a journey it has been! It has gone by so fast. Really, it has. 


    I heard someone say today that "when there is conflict in the body it is because what we feel with our body and what we think with our mind is different. That what we feel deep in our bodies is our truth."


    What I have experienced in the last 39 days is the coming together of my body and my mind. Is the ability to connect deeper with my mind, getting to know more of it's nature. At the same time, allowing my body to be nurtured deeply through high nutrition. In the process I have tapped onto my truth, both in my body and in my mind. I have discovered my inner warrior, my edge, love, gratitude, and more.


    As I gather myself for my last day I am trying to remain present in the moment, trying to not think too much of what my wishes and expectations were prior to the process, but rather allowing the natural flow of life to present itself to me. Thankful of the process and of were I am today. 
    __
    "The path of the Warrior is lifelong, and mastery is often simply staying on the path."- Richard Strozzi HecklerIn Search of the Warrior Spirit
    __
    Morning: Cucumber, celery, kale, broccoli sprouts, parsley, carrots, apple, pear, lemon, 5 oz wheatgrass. 60 oz.
    Mid morning: coconut water. 34 oz.
    Lunch: Carrot, orange, ginger 32 oz.
    Mid afternoon: Parsley, endive, radicchio, celery, apple, lime, carrot. 40 oz.
    Dinner: two cups of Honeybush Vanilla tea.




    Tuesday, February 21, 2012

    Day 38: desire has set into my mind...

    Day 38, only two to go, and I have struggled today in ways I have not during the entire fast. I was reading about desire yesterday. Desire for lasting happiness. Desire that takes us out of the moment into the future or the past or whatever the object of our desire is.


    Today, my Desire was for food. I started craving all the things I want to eat when the fast is done and I had one of the hardest days yet. I can see the finish line, and perhaps that is why I have allowed desire to come into my thoughts. I felt agitated by it and I don't particularly like it.


    Another desire I have been thinking about today is healing. Health, optimal health. I want it. I want to stop the cycles that have created physical conditions. I want to stay with the feeling of total liberation, which is in itself another desire. 


    I had to remind myself to breathe deeply today. To stay focused. To trust that I can do this. I was battling my mind today, and I am tired. Perhaps the 4 hour sleep I had last night didn't help either.


    __
    "Everything is perfect in the universe - even your desire to improve it."Wayne Dyer
    __


    Morning: spinach, carrot, ginger, parsley, celery, fennel, green apple, 5 oz wheatgrass. 35 oz.
    Soon after: clementine, celery, carrot. 30 oz.
    Before lunch: cup of hot water with Unpasteurized Miso.
    Lunch: Kale, cucumber, celery, mint, cabbage, pineapple. 40 oz.
    Mid afternoon: cup of throat formula tea.
    Later on: cup of hot water with Unpasteurized Miso.
    Dinner: cup of homemade ginger tea.

    Monday, February 20, 2012

    Day 37: Lady Luck came to me... and a bird pooped on my face!!!

    Lady Luck came to me today, teaching me about the beauty and healing powers of laughter. Not just the friendly smile, deep gut belly hurting laughter that makes you cry, that doesn't let you speak, that doesn't let you laugh anymore because your abdomen hurts so much. OH! so good.


    I haven't laughed this way in a long time. It has been a good teaching to let it all go and feel it deep in my gut. So thank you Lady Luck for the happy laughter.... that is until we got outside and oh my god! what! as I am strapping my toddler son into his seat I feel this splat on my face near my eye, I was ready to get my other son in trouble because I thought he had thrown snow at my face, when I heard him scream in laughter .. "Mama, mama a bird just pooed on your face!!!".... baaaahhhhhhhhhh .. so what do you do next? but burst out laughing yet again at the absurdity of the moment. Think of all the things I had to do today to be at the right place, at the right time, for a bird to poo on my face. Pretty unbelievable.


    Laughter is a powerful antidote against stress, pain, and conflict. It is said that "nothing works faster or more dependably to bring your mind and body back into balance than a good laugh". Laughter lightens the heart, relaxes the body, boosts the immune system, releases endorphins, and keeps us grounded. 


    I certainly feel that way today. Light in my heart, grounded, connected with myself and those around me.


    When was the last time you had one of those tear breaking, good belly rolling laughs? seek them, find them, make them happen.... they are so worth it. Let me know what absurdity life brings to you to take your laughter to the next belly roll over!
    __
    Laugh as much as you breathe and love as long as you live.”- Unknown.
    __


    Morning: Spinach, carrot, celery, apple, ginger. 40 oz.
    Before Lunch: 3 cups of hot water with Unpasteurized Miso.
    Lunch: Carrot, kale, celery, cucumber, asparagus, garlic, ginger, apple, pear. 50 oz.
    Before dinner: Cup of hot water with Unpasteurized Miso.
    Dinner: Collard, celery, cucumber, cilantro, ginger, green apple, 5 oz wheatgrass. 40 oz.
    As I write: cup of hot tea.

    Sunday, February 19, 2012

    Day 36: 4 to go, countdown is on! I dedicate this one to you!

    I am in disbelief at how fast the last 36 days have gone by. I am surprised at how smooth this ride has been, yes a little bumpy at times, but in general I have had the privilege to ride it with wind beneath my wings.

    I believe it has been that way thanks to the meditation practice. It has made all the difference in allowing me to continue to feel grounded and supported through the process. It has added a whole new dimension to my days and given me the space and perspective I needed to deal with came up for me personally, emotionally and so on during the fast.

    I also think you, have given me the strength. Writing everyday has been a big part of my healing process. Sitting down to gather my thoughts and my heart, at the end of the day most of the times, sharing it with you and the world has been a liberating experience. It has given me a wonderful community of powerful, sensible, inspiring people!! so thank you for showing up and sharing my experience with me!

    I continue, 4 days to go!, with an open heart, feeling every one of my blessings.

    Thank you. With much gratitude, I raise my glass to you. Salud!


    __
    "Gratitude is the memory of the heart."--Massieu
    __

    Morning: Tangerine juice. 16 oz.
    Soon After: Kale, collard, parsley, lime, green apple, celery, cucumber, ginger. 50 oz.
    Mid morning: Pak choi, celery, orange, tangerine, grapefruit, gooseberries, cilantro, kale, 5 oz wheatgrass. 62 oz.
    Lunch: Cucumber, celery, lime, purple kale, apple, coconut water, 5 oz wheatgrass. 40 oz.
    Mid Afternoon: 3 cups of hot water with Unpasteurized Miso.
    Dinner: Orange, raspberries, cranberries, ginger. 20 oz.
    After dinner: Orange, grapefruit. 16 oz.

    I have been fighting a cold and sore throat the last couple of days. I craved oranges and citrus today! can you tell? I followed my cravings and I am feeling much better tonight. It's been a high Vitamin C day... I rarely just do tangerines or oranges, but today that's what my body wanted. Sometimes you gotta follow those cravings with all your heart!..



    Saturday, February 18, 2012

    Day 35: it's just so good to see rawllygood long lost friends again!

    Sometimes life gives you the opportunity to reconnect with long lost childhood friends. It's as if time has not past, allthough 7 years have past since we saw each other last. Time passes, life passes, but the friendship, the love, the care is the same as it was when we were kids growing up. 


    That funny thing called time and space, that binds us and separate us all at once. I have heard my parents say it over and over, in our hearts we still feel like we are 20, yet the world is different, kids have had kids, the 'space' or environment that surrounds us has changed... but deep within we are still the same. We want those honest, free flowing connections that bring so much warmth and joy to the heart. 


    I find childhood friendships grounding. They are my roots, my past, the web that holds my life together. They are not only were I come from, they support whom I have become. Our paths may be completely different now, but the emotional connection is so strong that we can reach out and find the common in the different. I always feel rejuvenated after seeing my old childhood Venezuelan friends, seeing them connects me with a very happy time in my life. Happy, free, adventurous, and with a lot of love. 


    As I move forward with Day 35!!! I meditate on happiness, on the simplicity I witnessed as a child, on the feeling of warmth in my heart, and of creating warmth in the hearts of those around me. 
    __
    "A table, a chair, a bowl of fruit and a violin; what else does a man need to be happy?"
    Albert Einstein
    __

    Morning: Spinach, carrot, apple, ginger, garlic, cayenne pepper. 30 oz. (I woke up with a sore throat.. a little spice to kick it out!)
    Mid Morning: cup of hot water with Unpasteurized Miso. 
    Lunch: Kale, cucumber, celery, pineapple. 40 oz.
    Mid Afternoon: cup of hot water with Unpasteurized Miso.
    Dinner: Kale, fennel, celery, orange, grapefruit, 5 oz wheatgrass. 40 oz.
    As I write: cup of tea. (Throat formula)

    Friday, February 17, 2012

    Day 34: Make it happen!

    As I breathed deeply last night I thought about how to make those really challenging days better. How to make the 'taking care of myself' part of the day happen, because it's the first thing that goes when the storm hits. I have been wanting to get up before the roosters croak for a really really long time. But it always seemed a far away desire, because I've been up through the night or I had a late night or so on.

    Last night I went to bed very very late, with the intention of getting out of bed at 5.30 am to do my bowing, breathing, stretching and meditation. It takes me about 1.5 hrs to do my routine. I was up and moving, not feeling tired, but rather feeling gratitude for getting up, for taking care of myself before the day begun for everyone else. I loved it and I made it happen. That part of myself that was so frustrated yesterday, that feels anger and resentment when I have taken care of every one's needs but my own, was being nurtured and it felt so good.

    My practice ended at 6.40 am with my kids up and on my matt, playing 'London Bridge is falling down' as I was on downward dog and trying to finish my last Sun Salutation! Not bad for the end of my practice today and the beginning of what so far has been a wonderful day. My son, who has been the 'challenge' lately, sat on my lap, and hugged me. It was the first time in a little while that we were able to connect on a one on one without either of us being frustrated with each other. Truly beautiful.

    Making it happen has brought a few gifts for me already. It's only 10 am and I am writing!!!! whooaaaa, what a change!!!

    I fully understand that sometimes "Making it happen" seems impossible. I've really struggled with this one and I know I am not alone in that struggle, whatever "it" may mean to you. But going beyond what we think are our limits and potentials has allowed me to discover my will, my strengths, my commitment to myself. It's all good, it's all worth it. In the process, I have surprised myself. I have inspired myself to keep on going, not only with the Juice Feast (Day 34!!!! wooohoooooo!), the mediation, but other things that have been on that long list of "one day I would like to do". Being present in this moment. Doing them now has allowed me to tap into my vibrant being.

    __
    "Things do not happen. Things are made to happen."- John F. Kennedy
    __

    Morning: Spinach, watercress, clementine, orange, grapefruit, 5 oz wheatgrass. 30 oz.
    Mid morning: Spinach, carrot, gooseberries, orange, apple, celery, cilantro, cucumber, lemon. 40 oz.
    Lunch: coconut water. 18 oz.
    Mid afternoon: Pak Choi, kholrabi, beet, parsnip, cucumber, celery, cilantro, spinach, carrot, pear, lemon. 40 oz.
    Tonight: cup of hot tea.



    Day 33: challenged by Kali and Durga... and Gooseberries!


    The Hindu Godesses Kali and Durga came into my life during during the energy healing I did a few days ago. Little did I know that their presence came to stay for a little while. I am just starting to learn about them. but today I was challenged by them. 

    It was a day of chaos, of breathing deeply to the best of my ability but feeling challenged at the end of the day and feeling like my breath never went too deep within my body. I guess we all have them. Those crazy days. Totally unexpected, I was put to the test. 

    It is in the challenge that I phase that I realize how much more I need to sit and breathe, and breathe a lot!!!!

    Even my juicer exploded with Gooseberry juice all over the place!!! Man.... was I mad. But the Gooseberry delight that came after my first trial made the moment and that breath feel so much better. As I sipped my Gooseberry delight I was reminded of keeping the faith in the process, of staying in touch with the higher goals. With the intentions I set 33 days ago....

    So, almost midnight. I will go breathe some more now. It's a short one tonight. 
    __

    "Our attitude in the face of life's challenges determines our suffering or our freedom."  Tara Brach
    __
    Morning: Spinach, purple kale, celery, sprouts, carrots, radish, apple, lemon, 5 oz wheatgrass. 32 oz.
    Mid morning: cup of hot water with Unpasteurized Miso.
    Lunch: Arugula, celery, pineapple, broccoli sprouts. 40 oz.
    Mid afternoon: Gooseberries, raspberries, celery, orange. 20 oz.
    Dinner: Watercress, cucumber, orange, kiwi, celery. 20 oz.
    As I write: 16 oz. of coconut water. 

    Thursday, February 16, 2012

    A glitch in the system

    Dear friends:
    I published the latest post last night but due to life's mysteries it did not get posted. Enjoy the read and I will be writing you again tonight.

    Day 32: being proactive and a post Valentine's Day cocktail for you!

    I have been thinking today about my post yesterday, and there is one thing I would like to clarify. My personal lesson about 'getting out of the way the healing magic to happen' still means being proactive about your life and your health!.

    It is still important to try, with our best intentions and efforts forth, to help our bodies heal. To do all the hard and dirty work. To have patience with it, and to really pursue your journey as the front seat driver of your life, not just sitting in the back seat letting your life pass you by.

    'Getting out of the way' is listening to your body and your soul. Knowing the difference between laying down because you are exhausted vs. laying down avoiding what's going on for you. The later one is more like 'getting in the way' of your own path, growth, life!!!

    So please know, it is important to be proactive about your life! It's yours and it's the only one you got!. Change is sometimes hard, I understand that. But once we start reaping the benefits of our small changes the magic happens and we are ready to soar through the skies!!!!

    I had wanted to share a recipe or two for Valentine's but got caught in deep healing, so here is a post- Valentine Vegetable spicy Cocktail and a delicious sweet brain popping juice with a kick for you!!!

    Cajun Vegetable Cocktail

    3 tomatoes
    parsley (how much is up to you! I put half a pack of it or more!)
    3 celery stalks, with leaves if it has them
    1 clove garlic
    1/2 cucumber (if you want to make more juice, put a full one)
    1/2 lime
    small piece horseradish
    1/2 fresh chile pepper

    Juice all ingredients together!


    Happy Brain with a kick!


    1 cup of cranberries (fresh or frozen. If frozen allow to thaw out a bit so you get more juice out of them)
    1 cup of strawberries
    2 oranges
    3 carrots
    1 inch ginger (the optional kick!)

    Juice all ingredients. It's gonna make you sing and dance and warn you, you may want to do it all over again! so have the ingredients at hand for the encore!

    __
     “Some people want it to happen, some people wish it could happen, others make it happen.” Michael Jordan.
    __
    Morning: Purple Kale, cucumber, celery, cilantro, green grapes, kiwi, prickly pear, 5.5 oz of wheatgrass, 2 droppers of Marine Phytoplancton. 50 oz.
    Mid morning: a cup of hot water with Unpasteurized Miso.
    Lunch: Tomatoes, parsley, green beans, celery, garlic, cucumber, lime, horseradish, chile pepper. 25 oz.
    Mid afternoon: Carrot, orange, celery, pak choi, buckwheat sprouts, ginger. 40 oz.
    Early eve: Cranberries, strawberries, orange, carrot, ginger. 20 oz.
    Dinner: cup of hot water with Unpasteurized Miso.

    Tuesday, February 14, 2012

    Day 31: Surrendering to the mystery of life! and Happy Valentine's Day!


    Over the last few days there has been a theme to my days. To surrender to the mystery, to learn to 'yield' to life, to witness and accept things as they are, because perhaps they are perfect already. It's hard for me to accept things as they are. My tendency is to try and fix them as I want them to be.

    The Feast has gone into another layer of healing. I was nauseous last night into this morning, my face is showing the signs of deep detox, and my right side has been acting up. I know it's part of the process.

    As the universe has it, today, Valentines Day! the opportunity opened up to do some energy healing work. My big lesson is to bear witness and get out of the way of the healing process. The reality is my right side pain has been my Teacher and it's time to come to terms with that. It's time to appreciate the invaluable lessons and detach the emotional hold I have on my right side.

    Sometimes our greatest teachers come in disguise. Sometimes, what we resist so much is what we need to learn the most for our spiritual growth. Today, I am thankful for the presence in my life of my Teacher.

    Both the Juice Feast and the meditation have allowed me the space and the energy to have a different perspective on my experience. Both together, are allowing me to connect to my inner strength, confidence and trust in life. They are giving me the courage to surrender to the mystery!

    As I meditate on the next 9 days, I open myself up to the next phase of healing. I accept that I don't know how it will happen, I don't know what may come. I don't know what may be the end of this journey of the Juice Feast and meditation. I know that my intention is to heal deeply, to heal this right side of mine. I accept that I must get out of the way, I yield and surrender....

    __
    "We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned, so as to have the life that is waiting for us." Joseph Campbell
    __
    Morning: Green Apple, celery, ginger. 18 oz.
    Mid morning: Cucumber, celery, apple, coconut water, 5.5 oz wheatgrass. 50 oz.
    Lunch: 2 cups of hot water with Unpasteurized Miso.
    Mid Afternoon: Strawberries, cranberries, orange, ginger, carrot. 40 oz.
    Before Dinner: Licorice Tea.
    Dinner: Green pepper, asparagus, tomato, collard, broccoli sprouts, dandelion, apple, lemon, horseradish. 30 oz.

    Monday, February 13, 2012

    Day 30: Breath: the 'marriage license' between mind and body.






    To me, the breath is really the 'marriage license' between mind and body. It is what allows my body to converse with my mind and vice versa. It's what allows me to settle one or the other. It is what allows me to discover aspects of my mind or my body I didn't know existed! or perhaps I had forgotten.  It is what today allowed me to find comfort in discomfort and move beyond both my mind and my body.

    I went to a hot yoga class today. For most of the 30 days that have gone by, I have done my own practice at home. Quite enjoying the space to intuitively create my own practice. But today, I thought I would venture out into the world and enjoy a class. Well, was I in for a lesson or what!

    I went to a studio I don't often go, but would like to. With a teacher new to me. As we began the class I felt great resistance. Resistance to being guided in a different way than what I do. Resistance to doing the asana practice faster, to the sun shining in my face making me more uncomfortable in the hot room, to the different sequence, to posses I don't often do. I was having trouble keeping connected with my breath. All I could hear was my mind chatter with judgement and resistance, which was making the practice so frustrating and not at all what I had hoped and intended for today's practice. I was truly in total discomfort.

    The class was an hour and half, thankfully. I would say about a third into the class I finally was able to give into my breath, to trust the process, to accommodate to a new sequence and a new teacher, to find comfort in the discomfort, to yield into the practice and to end it with a big smile. Letting go of the judge within, letting go of the chatter in the mind to be fully present in my body was my lesson and my gift today. It was challenging, but important to understand.

    How often do we find ourselves stuck in both mind and/or body, unable to move beyond. That fine balance between both sides of the marriage, the one that yields and the one that resists. Reconnecting with my breath is allowing me to understand and be more at peace with the movement between the two.
    "Learn how to exhale, the inhale will take care of itself."  ~Carla Melucci Ardito
    Morning: cup of hot water with Maca, lemon and raw honey.
    Soon after: Collard, celery, parsley, broccoli and alfalfa sprouts, prickly pear, mango, green grapes, 5 oz of wheatgrass. 55 oz.
    Lunch: 8 oz of coconut water.
    While I made my juice: cup of hot water with Unpasteurized Miso.
    Mid afternoon: carrot, fennel, orange, ginger, broccoli and alfalfa sprouts. 50 oz.
    Late afternoon: coconut water, mint, lime. 18 oz.
    Dinner: green tea.


    For the first time in 30 days, I am really nauseous tonight and feel as if something is moving through my throat chakra.