Healing Radius

Healing Radius is an information hub for users to easily find, book and review therapists focused on bettering individual health and wellness. Our mission is connecting you with the resources to create your personal wellness path.

[healingradius]

Spring is Here and We’re Challenging YOU to Make Room for New Growth in Your Life

Start Fresh this Spring by Clearing Your Mind, Body and Soul

“Spring won’t let me stay in this house any longer! I must get out and breathe the air deeply again.” -Gustav Mahler

After a long winter, all of us look forward to seeing the sunshine again in the springtime. Spring is the time to start fresh and adapt to new, healthy changes in your life’s routine. Whether its spending time with your pets, planting a garden, or spending more time outside of your home with friends or family, staying active is healthy for your heart and mind wellness!

You might normally think of a spring clean for your home that includes getting rid of the clutter and dust inside your home, but a spring clean can apply to your body, mind and spiritual health too. Check out my suggestions below!

Body Detox for Optimum Energy

Starting fresh for better health and wellness for the warmer months can start with a juicing or raw diet cleanse for your body. You’ll be surprised how delicious juicing or blending daily fruits and vegetables can be for your taste buds. In combining flavors of vegetables and fruits, you’re more likely to find a blend that you like best. You might not imagine drinking a blended kale drink by itself but in adding in flavors like ginger, lemon and apple, you’ll gain a sweet blend that is easy to swallow.

New studies show that consuming the peels or skins of certain fruits and vegetables is highly beneficial to fiber and blood sugar levels in the body. The fibers of fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots found in the skins is taken away in juicing and the loss of important totals of polyphenols and flavonoids are replaced by the natural sugars in the food. The natural sugars in fruits and vegetables may not be harmful like cane or processed sugars but can still cause the blood sugar levels in the body to spike. Consuming the entire fruit or vegetable through a blending method helps the body gain balanced natural sugars and the essential dietary fibers needed for digestion. If you’re looking to gain some of your daily fruits and vegetables nutrients, a little sugar boost and a smooth consistency, try juicing. If you’re more interested in gaining higher levels of antioxidants in your created blend and don’t mind a little pulp, stick to blending.

Experimenting with a Raw Diet for Wellness

Another option to consider for a springtime body cleanse is adapting to a raw diet. A raw diet consists of no processed foods, sugars, caffeine, bread or grains and alcohol. This diet cleanse takes discipline and you may find better success in trying it for a short period of time and working your way up to a longer period of time if you find you are satisfied by the foods allowed.

A raw diet body cleanse is structured to cleanse the body from harmful toxins left by processed foods or fatty, greasy foods. Before starting a raw diet, you should speak with your personal doctor or holistic provider to make sure this route is a safe one for you to follow. If you have serious existing vitamin or mineral deficiencies, then the raw diet is not recommended.

The raw diet doesn’t consist of any cooking or heating food over 118 degrees, which is thought to help maintain better food nutrients and vitamins. In order to detox, you need to alkalize the blood so that it will encourage the body to let go and push out existing toxins.

Since this diet consists of organic fruits and vegetables, you may need kitchen tools to help you make “cooking” inventive. Try a juicer or dehydrator to experiment with your food and learn to make signature blends of your own. Also, try making friends with your local farmers market vendor or farmer. You’ll consume a heavy amount of fruits and vegetables every day so you’ll need a variety of fresh, locally sourced foods.

To further cleanse for springtime, focus on getting your body moving and getting a good amount of rest. Introduce a new daily activity to your routine that gets your body moving whether its an early morning walk or a yoga routine with a pal after work. Good Luck!

Brighten up Your Mind & Emotional Health

Winter can be harsh on your body and mind. The constant cold, harsh winds, never ending snow or ice can be exhausting. We all get to the point where we just can’t muster up the energy to shovel a driveway or windshield of ice anymore. Winter can be tough on your mental health too and getting your body moving outside is a great way to begin to combat winter depression or the blues.

Finding a new hobby can be a start to bringing more light into your spring lifestyle. If your schedule is busy due to your children, your job or prior obligations, that’s okay. Finding a new hobby can be one of little or big standing but should simply serve as a new challenge for your brain. Now’s the time to step away from your latest game app on your smartphone and try something that involves moving around or interacting with others.

New Hobbies to Consider:

Featured Yogi: @Meeshyxx

Taking a crossword puzzle and a blanket to the nearest park, don’t leave until you finish at least half of a puzzle (take a friend or spouse to help out if needed!)

Sign up for a crafting or cooking class that you’d like to learn more about

Look into intramural sports at your local gym or YMCA

Locate a local winery and take a weekend tour

Buy yourself a new yoga mat and an at home DVD. Try to get active at least 3x per week!

Spend time volunteering with a local shelter in need

Challenge yourself with a language or visual arts class at your local community college

With a new, warmer environment, try and address an emotional problem that may have been dragging you down this past winter. Maybe you have trouble letting go of something about a friend or family member that bothers you. Try to teach yourself to forgive. Forgiveness is difficult, especially when everyone’s situation is a different one. Taking baby steps towards beginning to forgive someone is a step forward in a positive direction and will certainly help put a spring back in your step for the warmer season.

Now that you’ve got a few tips and tools to lighten up your winter blues and encourage health and positivity for the spring, I hope that you’ll find a wellness practice that works for you. As always, HealingRadius is open to comments and suggestions on what works for your wellness path!

[landregan]

[healingradius]

Natural Remedies to Create Your Own Healing Tea Blends

Green, White, Herbal and More! All Natural Tea Blends are full of Delicious Complexity and Healing Power

Herbal tea blends of all kinds can be as tasty or simple as you like them. Unlike coffee, tea blends can be as creative and enhanced with multiple flavors as you please. If you’re not familiar with tea then experimenting with different types whether herbal, floral, green, black or white is a good place to start. You also may think that teas only exist in the simple little tea pod or bag sold in grocery stores. Interestingly enough, tea blends of better quality and blends are sold as loose leaf teas and commonly steeped in a tea ball or diffuser. Different tea blends require different temperatures and amounts of time to steep correctly. Some teas are delicate compared to others and steeping too long or in too hot of kettle water can harm the nutritional and flavor benefits of that blend.

Health Benefits Galore!

The added health benefits of tea are endless! Tea blends for many people are considered natural remedies or preventive remedies to avoid problems with digestion, menstrual cramps, headaches, fertility, minor, common viruses and much more. Locating a specialty tea shop in your area is a great way to start investigating new tea blends and which contain ingredients that could be beneficial to a health issue or interest you have.

Tools of the (Tea) Trade

Outside of your standard tea cup and favorite tea blend, there are several different ways to brew and better enjoy a teapot of tea. Whether you’re a fan of hot or iced teas, there are specific tools of the trade that can help better your tea making experiences. If you’re interested in specialty iced tea blends, most people will stick with floral or herbal blends that contain fruity ingredients like passionflower, blueberry, pineapple or basic black teas. These tea blends are popular for iced blends because of their ability to adapt well to added flavors like sugar, stevia sweetener, citrus like lemons and oranges and mint.

When you've decided on a good blend, you’ll need to double your tea amount because once the tea cools down from the steeping process, the flavors will weaken. In order to keep strong and fragrant flavors, use double the amount of your normal tea blend. Try brewing your iced tea blends in larger quantities too. Amounts over 32 oz or even in larger pitchers is a good way to get the most out of your iced brewing process. If you buy a specialty iced tea pitcher from a tea shop, most will feature a strainer or element that allows the user to skim over the loose tea particles so that don’t even up floating around in your tea cup or glass.

Hot Tea Blends as Natural Remedies

When exploring tea blends for hot teas which can be used as natural remedies to heal the body, the possibilities are endless! Many specialty tea shops or distributors will feature organic, fair trade tea blends with natural ingredients for an overall better cup of nutritious tea. Blends can be targeted for health issues or for immunity boosting properties. Upon further investigation it may seem like the blends contain a lot of complexities but tea experts combine the ingredients for overall benefits that compliment one another and don’t weaken any included flavors. Tools that beneficial for loose leaf tea blends are a tea ball, infuser, timer and even a hand held frother.

An example of one of my favorite tea blends to steep and infuse for a cup of hot tea include, organic spearmint, cramp bark, vitex berries, skullcap, marshmallow root, passionflower and ginger root. All included elements that are beneficial to soothing the body and muscles. You may assume that teas are primarily for creating a soothing user experience but tea blends can also be used to energize and combat depression. If you’re looking for a tea to energize try a blend featuring citrus, St. John’s Wort, ginseng or gingko biloba.

Also, if you’re an allergy sufferer or looking a natural sweetener to add to hot or cold blends, use local, organic honey. Honey is a great way to add sweetness without calories and unnatural bleached sugar. Look to add or froth some of your favorite milk to a tea blend too. Almond, soy or hemp milk froth well and are super flavorful additions to teas like matcha and English breakfast.

Additional Fun Flavors

There several additional nutritional flavors or natural additives to help accelerate your tea tastings. Fruit flavors from apples, oranges, limes and pineapple are great ways to kick-start your taste buds. Brew hot or iced and then include a few slices of some of your favorite fruit flavors. Due to the heat of teas, the fruit may start to break apart so including the fruit in a portable tea ball will help in keeping the liquid and solid separated.

If you’re feeling adventurous and need an added superfood boost of fiber and protein, then try adding chia seeds to your tea too. Chia seeds can be sprinkled in just about anything from tea, oatmeal, smoothies and soups. Chia seeds provide natural fiber, protein and antioxidants and will absorb the liquid surrounding them. The absorption of the liquid helps the seeds to swell and be easily swallowed and absorbed into the digestive system.

Now that you've gathered some interesting tea info and benefits, it’s time to explore and find the perfect blend for you! Tea blend flavors are an excellent way to harness the healing properties of nature to treat your body with gentle kindness. Feel free to share any of your own tea blend suggestions or favorites anytime on our HealingRadius blog, we’d love to hear from you!

[healingradius]

Beyond The Box

How CrossFit Shapes Athletes Mentally and Physically

Maybe you’ve seen the videos of CrossFit athletes in their “Box” lifting tires and throwing medicine balls in and out of squats. Maybe you’ve sat next to a couple of CrossFit athletes at a coffee shop and ease dropped into their conversation about burpees and thrusters? Whatever the cause, you’re here now reading this article to learn a little more.

I didn’t know much of anything about CrossFit before I started to research it. Once I dove into the written and video research, I found myself engulfed in the wealth of information available to learn about it. First off, I learned that CrossFit is intense! CrossFit is a stylized and intensive physical conditioning regime that looks to shape your body, mind and diet. The CrossFit athletes I’ve spoken to have told me, anyone can start CrossFit but you have to be willing to keep going and to keep pushing yourself to see continued progress. Progress in CrossFit can start to be seen in your daily workouts, at up to 6 days per week and through a mostly strict paleo diet.

The typical diet of a CrossFit athlete requires what might seem like an absurd amount of protein to normal folks.The diet of some of CrossFit’s most devoted athletes is quite meticulously maintained. Small and frequent meals throughout the day are encouraged which commonly includes foods like bananas, avocados, eggs, chicken, grass fed beef, bacon and sweet potatoes. This diet doesn’t support a need for processed sugars, dairy, bread or grains. Many CrossFit athletes may not completely adapt to a paleo diet and most likely still consume dairy like cottage cheese or greek yogurt for protein or have some “cheat days” during the month.

To me that seems harsh (Goodbye, precious breakfast croissant and morning latte!) but when you look closely at exactly what an athlete is consuming on a daily basis, you quickly realize they are feeding themselves plenty and well. The diet of a CrossFit athlete is a strict regime because of the importance to recuperate after an intense workout and help continue to build muscle.

Are you ready for your WOD?

The typical CrossFit workout routine consists of physical and intensive drills that are designed to test you physically and mentally. The routines are similar to those used in police academy and military training and are designed to push you to reach new heights in strengthening all over your body. The workout of the day or (WOD) change weekly for each group of athletes within that person’s fitness and training abilities (which change based on progress and completion of certain workouts).

Each group and individual work closely with people within their assigned group as well with a team workout trainer. The workout leader is an employee of the CrossFit gym, a trained CrossFit athlete and serves as a motivator and mentor to the box’s athletes. CrossFit boxes are continually popping up within big and small cities all over the United States and the community created by the athletes is something of great pride to all participants. The community helps to motivate their “team mates” by providing emotional encouragement for each to work towards reaching their physical goals for the day and continuing to grow stronger, faster and more disciplined. If you’re a person that goes to the gym to work up a sweat alone on a treadmill, then CrossFit is not for you.

Is there a right type of person for CrossFit?

The great thing about CrossFit opposed to a regular gym membership is that you’re encouraged to try it out first for an hour training session for free before signing up for a weekly or monthly membership. One of the reasons the owners of CrossFit boxes offer this free session to help people see right away the discipline required (this is not fun and games!) and levels of intensity of what may lie ahead for someone adapting to their lifestyle. Average costs for a CrossFit affiliate box membership is $125 per month, with discounts frequently offered for teachers, public service officials and students. Most CrossFit athletes make time for CrossFit almost every day with one to three workouts per day. The high intensity workout routines range from 20 to 45 minutes each time and include reps of moves like the burpee, handstand push-up, box jump, clean & jerk, wall ball and pistol.

What are these moves and how do they work?

Below is a small snippet of some of the most popular moves for your budding CrossFit vocabulary.

Pistol: Single leg squats (Yes, single legs..)

Rope Climb: Just like the thick rope that you remember (or dreaded) from your high school gym class. Rope climb is a CrossFit staple and requires athletes to climb to the top using arm and leg strength.

Wall Ball: Holding a 14lb to 20 lb medicine ball, participants must squat and throw the ball over and over to a 8ft or 10 ft wall target.

Muscle Up: Using two wooden rings hung from the box’s ceiling, some of the more highly trained and conditioned athletes use the rings to pull themselves up by the rings to essentially hold up their body weight by the pressure put in the rings.

Workouts in the Box are about speed, agility and grit. The CrossFit outlook is on weight training, mental discipline and always trying to beat your previous time or speed. Many other workout methods and routines exist and to further your own CrossFit lingo knowledge look to sites like this one.

Many CrossFit boxes, if not all, require speed and agility but also promote a safe fitness environment for all athletes and want their athletes to reach their physical goals without causing too much strain or physical pain.

The Importance of a Community

One of the facts you may be taking away from this article is that CrossFit is tough. CrossFit is intense and their athletes train hard. The last fact I hope that you’ll take away from this, is something I learned right away in researching and talking to athletes about their CrossFit lifestyle. I learned the extreme importance of a box community and having a supportive set of teammates is a no brainer necessity. Without the community of their peers, most CrossFit devotees do not feel they could workout and reach their goals alone. Like in many methods of alternative medicine and fitness techniques, CrossFit is built on a devotion to one’s community.

As a runner myself, I believe that having friends to run with (especially when it’s cold and you just want to stay in bed on a Saturday morning) is essential. The community of people you surround yourself with are your biggest supporters and those rely upon your encouragement as much as you depend upon theirs. If you’re a CrossFit athlete or if you’re reading this because you’re interested in starting in a “box” near you, I applaud you! Reaching your fitness goals and changing your lifestyle is a different path for everyone but essential to a driven and ambitious life.

Looking for more great reads on fitness and wellness options? Check out the HealingRadius Wellness Blog.

[healingradius]

Create Your Own Personal Path to Wellness

Approaching the Four Areas of Wellness with curiosity and authenticity: Spiritual, Emotional, Mental and Physical

Reaching toward my 27th year, I've become more aware of the importance of maintaining good health and wellness for my overall well-being. To do so, it’s necessary to create a consistent wellness path to follow in the years to come, ultimately setting myself up for a healthy lifestyle as I get older.

Are you interested in creating your own wellness path as well?

First, let’s tackle this concept and why it’s important for our well-being. Maintaining health and wellness is critical to live a quality and fulfilling life, as it affects our everyday actions and emotions. When your wellness is at its peak, you understand your importance in society, you feel motivated to enhance personal relationships and important friendships, and so on. When your wellness is at its low, you increase the risk of stress, anxiety and illness. You may also feel too discouraged to exercise or keep up with your diet.

It’s often viewed that our soul, feelings, mind and body are separate entities, when in fact, they are all connected. You must feed each of those areas every day to stay on your wellness path, whether it’s reading before you fall asleep, writing in a journal to express your feelings, going for a walk, eliminating junk food or talking to a close friend.

This holistic approach will ultimately balance and improve the different aspects that make you a whole person. You’ll be able to understand yourself better, cope with different challenges, and much more. All you need is time, determination and perseverance to achieve four areas of wellness: spiritual, emotional, mental and physical.

Spiritual Wellness

Imagine yourself meditating in a peaceful open field. Now, take a deep breath. You, my friend, are on the path to experiencing spiritual wellness, a state of harmony with yourself and others. You can also travel, pray, practice yoga, or think positive thoughts in order to explore your spiritual core, achieve inner peace and ponder the meaning of life.

Emotional Wellness

Do you want to give and receive forgiveness, build positive relationships, feel more love and compassion, and ultimately experience happiness? Improving your emotional wellness will help you do just that! Distract yourself from negative thoughts, write in a journal, manage stress, and accept your mistakes to have a more positive attitude, a strong sense of self, and most importantly, inner strength.

Mental Wellness

When you improve your mental wellness, you also improve your capacity to live a full and exhilarating life regardless of its inevitable changes. Pick a fulfilling hobby, read captivating stories, participate in memory and mind-stimulating tasks, and display acts of kindness. Just remember to smile through the pain, because, after all, laughter is said to be the best medicine.

Physical Wellness

It’s very important to keep yourself in top condition for optimal well-being. Achieving physical wellness means taking quality care of your body through proper nutrition, exercise and rest. Some ways you can do this are getting consistent sleep, listening to your body, adopting healthy eating habits, controlling meal portions, drinking alcohol in moderation, and avoiding sugary, salty and fatty foods.

Even though you are the only one responsible for your health, the Gurus of Healing Radius would like to help you create a wellness path through our beneficial platform, allowing you to research healers and connect with others in your area. You’ll be able to find and book appointments with different yoga studios and treatment centers to achieve spiritual and physical wellness, or use our management and organization tools to reduce stress and find peace of mind.

We Gurus inspire you to work on these four areas every day, making each one better than the last.

Let your journey begin!

Xo

Alicia Lepore

[purplebuddhaproject]

I’m not in search of sanctity, sacredness, purity; these things are found after this life, not in this life; but in this life I search to be completely human: to feel, to give, to take, to laugh, to get lost, to be found, to dance, to love and to lust, to be so human.

 C. JoyBell C. (via purplebuddhaproject)

[healingradius]

Red-Hot and Healthy Food for Your Valentine's Day

Romancing with food

Dinner for two? Rather than going out to eat this Valentine’s Day, consider staying in and creating a red-themed menu comprised of nutritious and aphrodisiac-packed food for you and your loved one. That way, you’ll be able to get the benefits of eating healthy, homemade fare while spending quality time with each other. To assist you in your menu decision-making, I’ve put together a selection of in-the-mood food for your romantic holiday:

Cherry Charmer

Whether sweet or sour, fresh cherries contain many antioxidants that help reduce belly fat, prevent cancer and heart disease, and lower the signs of aging. Cherries also boost melatonin and lower body temperature which can increase your time spent in bed. Try two tablespoons of tart cherry juice as a tasty sleep aid, leaving more cuddle time with your significant other. Also consider these delicious cherry-loaded recipes for you and your valentine:

Cherry, wild rice and quinoa salad

Pork medallions with cherry sauce

Cherry cheesecake shooters

Cherry mojitos

Strawberry Satisfaction

Strawberries are jam-packed (get it?) with vitamin C and folate, which helps improve eye and prenatal health, prevent cancer, fight wrinkles and reduce inflammation. Wondering how to indulge in this sweet fruit on Valentine’s Day? Whip up some chocolate-covered strawberries for you and your other half, but make sure to use dark chocolate because it has been shown to cause a spike in dopamine, inducing feelings of pleasure. You should try these other tasty dishes, too:

Filet mignon and balsamic strawberries

Spinach and strawberry salad

Strawberry parfaits

Strawberry and avocado salsa

Savor the Spice

Cayenne pepper contains antifungal properties, vitamin C, vitamin B6, vitamin E, potassium, manganese and flavonoids, which boosts metabolism and helps the brain release endorphins. This red Guinea spice also contains capsaicin, an active component that brings upon the hotness and causes your mucus membranes to react. Try these savory recipes to spice up your romantic night:

Spicy beef chili

Blackened chicken with fettuccine alfredo

Cayenne-candied bacon

Cajun shrimp and rice

Tomato Temptation

Roma tomatoes, cherry tomatoes, heirloom tomatoes, grape tomatoes—whatever your heart desires this Valentine’s day, keep in mind that you’ll be consuming a great amount of antioxidants that lower total cholesterol, reduce risk of heart disease and support bone health. To get the right amount of vitamins, folate and potassium from this juicy and fat-free food, consider making these delicious meals for your special night:

Fresh bruschetta

Caprese salad

Pasta with cherry tomatoes and basil

Pizza with homemade marinara sauce

Pomegranate Power

Pomegranate is an exotic, vibrantly colored fruit that is recognized for its antioxidant, antiviral and antitumor properties. Such antioxidants have been known to prevent cancer and heart disease, improve blood flow and aid in weight management. So, what’s an effective way to incorporate this red fruit into your Valentine’s Day-inspired menu? Here are some ideas:

Pomegranate martini

Lamb kebabs with pomegranate-cumin glaze

Roasted brussel sprouts with pomegranate seeds

Pomegranate guacamole

Pepper Passion

Sweet red bell peppers are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that promote growth and development, and keep your cells feeling healthy and happy. In fact, red peppers have more beta-carotene, vitamin A and vitamin C than the green ones. This delicious red food is good for snacking, dipping, roasting, steaming or adding to a stir-fry. Try these recipes for a nutritious and hearty Valentine’s Day:

Quinoa-stuffed red peppers

Roasted red pepper pasta

Sweet pepper poppers

Creamy red pepper and cauliflower soup

The Gurus of HealingRadius hope you and your other half enjoy a cozy night in with these tasty treats. You can also refer to this list beyond February 14—whenever you feel the need to excite your companion and add a little romance to the evening.

That’s amore!

[healingradius]

12 Natural Remedies for the Common Cold

Staying Healthy This Winter, The Natural Way

Winter is approaching and we’re beginning to feel the joy and magic of the holiday season—old traditions, new traditions, festive parties and family gatherings—but what are we not merry about? Yes, it’s the dreaded cold. Although colds can occur any time of the year, they’re most common during the winter months. Fortunately for us, there are ways to fight back using proper techniques. Bring it on, influenza!

Common Cold & Flu Symptoms: Fever

When your body temperature fluctuates, and you feel hot one minute and chilly the next. Oh, and don’t forget about the discomfort from that awful headache.

1. Draw a bath: Taking a relaxing bath in lukewarm water helps your body temperature cool down and your fever to reduce. Add Epsom salts to release toxins and for extra health benefits.

2. Stay hydrated: This is one of the most important procedures you can follow. Staying hydrated allows you to fight bacteria and help your body operate at its best. Stock up on water and even try chicken soup as an anti-inflammatory agent. Chicken contains an amino acid that helps thin mucus while the combination of vegetables, meat and broth makes for a powerful remedy. Make sure to avoid alcohol, carbonated drinks and coffee.

3. Wet sock treatment: Considered one of the strangest but most effective home remedies for a fever, the wet sock treatment helps increase blood circulation and stimulate the immune system. Soak your feet in warm water for about 5 to 10 minutes while a pair of thin cotton socks soak in ice water. Next, wring the socks out thoroughly before putting them on. Place a pair of dry wool socks over the wet cotton socks and wear them while you sleep.

Sinus Infection

When you feel tight pressure behind the eyes, accompanied by slight dizziness and a headache.

1. Apple cider vinegar: This type of vinegar contains a wide range of beneficial nutrients, including vitamins A and E, calcium, potassium and magnesium, that help eliminate congested mucus and clear sinus cavities. Mix 2 teaspoons with 6 ounces of lukewarm water, and drink two to three times a day until mucus is cleared.

2. Cayenne pepper: Place this flavorful red spice, also known as the “miracle herb,” on your food to clear sinuses and break up congested mucus.

3. Grapefruit Seed Extract (GSE): This safe and natural liquid extract helps relieve nasal congestion and eliminate infection, as well as bacteria and fungus. Place a few drops of GSE in a half cup of warm water and inhale it. You also can place a few drops of the herbal supplement in a Neti Pot to wash your sinuses out.

Runny Nose

When you can’t stop the runny fluid coming from your nasal passages. “Nobody likes a Mr. Sniffles.”

1. Steam inhalation: Not only does this technique help with the common cold, but it also helps with allergies, asthma and bronchitis. Drape a towel over your head, lean over a bowl of warm-to-hot water and inhale the steam. Be careful not to burn yourself!

2. Garlic: This cold-fighting ingredient contains allicin, an active component that is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties. Maximize the amount of allicin by chopping or crushing fresh garlic—make a soup or eat it raw.

3. Ginger root: This antioxidant is popular for loosening mucus and phlegm. You can choose between eating raw ginger slices, making ginger and honey tea, or boiling pieces of ginger in water and inhaling the steam.

Itchy or Sore Throat

When you feel pain in the throat, difficulty swallowing or just can’t seem to tame your coughing. Ouch.

1. Gargle warm salt water: This procedure is also a popular one, as it reduces swelling in the throat while killing bacteria. Place salt in a glass of warm water and stir until it dissolves, then gargle for several seconds.

2. Honey: Considered to be more effective than cough medicine, honey is a popular remedy for taming nighttime coughing. Make a cup of tea with hot water and a generous teaspoon of honey.

3. Peppermint tea: Menthol, an effective decongestant and expectorant, is the main ingredient in peppermint. Together, they help thin mucus, eliminate coughing and calm sore throats. Peppermint is available in several forms, including capsules, creams and herbal leaves.

We’re confident that if you follow these natural and safe techniques, you’ll be finding anything but germs in your stocking this year.

Let HealingRadius guide you on your wellness path! Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest

.

[healingradius]

Uses and Benefits of Turmeric

Uses and Benefits of Turmeric, the Powerful, Orange Spice!

With a plant based and/or veggie friendly diet, you can truly eat the rainbow!

Natural foods and nutritional supplements for better health come in many colors and sometimes discovering new ones venture out and add to your diet is not only delicious but beneficial to longevity and immunity power. One of the colorful spice supplements that is on the rise for food trends in 2015 is turmeric. Turmeric, is a plant of the ginger family that grows primarily in Southeast India. When seen in its non-powdered form it appears like a knotty root piece of ginger, but once cut open, you’ll notice turmeric’s vibrant, deep yellow color. Some people will peel turmeric of its rough exterior and toss it into the blender for wellness elixirs and juices like jamu. Others use the organic powdered form of turmeric, found in the grocery’s spice aisle, to sprinkle on just about anything. Turmeric is also available to take in a caplet form, similar to the shape of a multivitamin and can easily be incorporated into your daily health regime. 

Natural Beauty with Natural Power

You may be thinking, but I already take a multivitamin? That’s okay too! Using turmeric in your foods or taking it as a supplement can be very effective for wellness throughout the year (especially during cold and flu season!) as well as beneficial for long term health for prevention or treatment for diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, irritable bowel syndrome and inflammation. Debilitating diseases like Alzheimer's and cancer have been thoroughly studied and continue to be tested for treatment in easing symptoms. Some studies suggest that turmeric could be more beneficial for pain reduction or inflammation from these diseases than the actual western drugs that are typically prescribed. One thing is for sure alternative healers, some western physicians and those that look for a more holistic approach in health care agree on, these experts say that use of turmeric in your everyday diet before or after a disease diagnosis can be greatly beneficial to your quality of life.

How Do I Use Turmeric?

There are many different ways to incorporate turmeric into your diet and health regime. To start, it is wise to always look for organic turmeric whether in the whole, powdered or supplement form. Turmeric powder can be sprinkled on many foods, but is especially tasty when added to eggs, curries, soups or pastas. It can have a subtle smoky taste, but some people also prefer it in sweets like smoothies. An excellent way to use turmeric in something sweet is to make a cup of warm almond or coconut milk in the evenings and add a tablespoon of honey, a teaspoon of cinnamon and a teaspoon of turmeric. Not only will the warm milk help prepare the brain and body for a good night’s rest but the intake of turmeric is disguised as something sweet.

Also, try this excellent holistic tea detox recipe for helping to fight the inflammation of cold and flu symptoms and promote immunity boosting power. 

Jamu for You

Another way is to make your own jamu. Jamu is an Indonesian tonic that many refer to as a healing turmeric juice. Jamu has been used and practiced in countries like Indonesia for centuries and many healers in the country use jamu recipes that have been passed down for many generations within their families. Traditional recipes by alternative healing practitioners use turmeric as their primary ingredient in addition to ginger, water, coconut, honey, lime and many dried or fresh herbs. Their recipes in most cases are unknown because of the secrecy to their recipes and traditions. However, you can make a simple jamu elixir of your own!

Blend whole pieces of peeled turmeric, whole peeled pieces of ginger, lime juice and water. Many people also add honey to sweeten the juice since the turmeric can make it bitter. You may also find other nutritional additions you prefer to add in. Other suggestions would be apple, fresh mint or basil and coconut water. Expect your juice to be a cheerful, bright orange!

If you’re not familiar with any turmeric cooking or additives, please note your fingers may turn bright orange! Turmeric is a beautiful orange color but may stain your hands temporarily after chopping it up.

Turmeric for my Pup, too?

When many people think of pet food they don’t normally consider fruits, vegetables and spices. However, some of your domestic pets can enjoy some of the same nutritional foods that we do for better health and taste. Turmeric is one of these!

Turmeric is said to be greatly beneficial for pets internal wellness for heart health, joint inflammation, irritable bowel and overall pain. Depending on weight, up to ¼ teaspoon of organic powdered turmeric can be added to your dog’s evening meal. (Check for reference or simply ask your holistic veterinarian).

I recently began serving turmeric to my two Boston Terriers for dinner and they seem to really love it. Just to give you an example of how I prepared it, check out below.

In addition to a ½ cup scoop of their grain, soy and corn free dog food, I cooked two organic chicken tenderloins, four small baby carrots, ¼ teaspoon of organic turmeric powder, 1 Tablespoon of virgin olive oil and ¼ cup of organic chicken broth. Once the chicken was fully cooked, I let it cool down and then added ½ cup of organic whole milk plain yogurt. I tossed it all together and watched them snort and wag their tails in joy! 

(Keep in mind, the weight of your dog is important to the actual amount of turmeric you use. Also, using yogurt in addition to turmeric will help in preventing an upset stomach and help in preventing the bright orange color of the turmeric in temporarily staining your dog’s mouth.)

Natural Skin Care Remedies with Turmeric

The use of turmeric is a smart decision to incorporate in your kitchen and even in your beauty routine! Turmeric’s power against inflammation, joint pain, menstrual cramp problems, skin burns and soothing elements to the stomach and intestines are just a few of the benefits of eating turmeric but adding it as part of your beauty routine could be helpful too for fighting pimples, wrinkles and oily skin. You can apply turmeric directly onto a troublesome pimple by making a small amount of turmeric paste with the spice and water. Let the paste dry and rinse off in 15 minutes.

Another avenue for using the spice is by making a facial mask with organic plain yogurt, turmeric and honey. With turmeric’s natural powers to combat inflammation and easily exfoliate the skin, makes it a great skin care mask for wrinkles and oily skin. You only need to use a turmeric facial mask once a week due to the spice’s natural color power, using it too often can tint your face slightly yellow. Also, users should take close note to only leave turmeric on the body for less than 10 minutes because the of the spice’s natural power to actually burn the skin.

I’m planning on my own use of turmeric by mixing a tiny dash into my night facial moisturizer. Turmeric has natural antimicrobial powers and will work it’s magic while I get some shut eye! It is suggested that mixing it in your night moisturizer is suggested for once or twice a week and always wash your face with a gentle cleanser in the morning to start with a fresh, clean face.

Tender, Loving Care with Ayurveda and Turmeric

In Ayurveda health practices, turmeric is a very commonly used addition to oils and spices for relaxation and stress melting services. Turmeric has been used and is continuously used in traditional Indian cooking and Ayurvedic practices. Studies show that due to the use of the powerful spice used in daily in Indian cooking, it has resulted in India having one of the lowest rates of Alzheimer’s in the world (less than 1% of the population). Curcumin, one of the main and most powerful elements that make up turmeric’s ingredients help significantly in boosting the body’s antioxidants and help cells fight off diseases like Alzheimer’s and cancer and viruses like the flu.

There shouldn't be any question in regards to turmeric’s health benefits and proof of healing properties. The only question you should be asking yourself is, Where’s the blender? This article has put me in the mood for a turmeric detox smoothie to power me through my day!

Austin Lange is a part of the HealingRadius team as a resident digital content manager and wellness blogger. Her current interests include researching pet acupuncture and learning to make the perfect omelet. Austin dreams of someday owning her own Tuscan vineyard and hopes to someday actually finish the Sunday New York Times crossword.

Looking for a yoga class, wellness center or a professional with a holistic approach? We can help you find your way to wellness! Use HealingRadius to find alternative healing solutions near you.

[healingradius]

Matcha Packs a Punch

The Alternative Healing Power in Your Teacup

     It is said that Buddhist monks drink matcha to provide better concentration during meditation. I say, if the Buddhist monks are drinking matcha then I need to figure out why, asap!      Matcha leaves plenty of room for experimentation outside of a hot brewed cup of the brilliant green powder. Getting creative with matcha powder is easy when you consider you can use it in food or drink. The great thing about matcha is that even 2 oz. (a common weight in which matcha is sold), can last a significant amount of time before you have to buy again. In 2 oz. of matcha powder, you can get at least 20-24 small cups of hot brewed tea. Matcha is of high potency and only a little (generally ½ teaspoon) is plenty for a flavorful cup. There are many positive benefits to consuming matcha whether you’re looking for a natural energy boost outside of the usual caffeine jitters or looking to boost immunity and ward off the flu virus.

Move Over, Kale

     Matcha powder is rising in popularity within the alternative medicine and has been hailed as one of the foods to watch in 2015. There’s good reason to pay close attention and educate yourself on the powers of matcha powder for your diet too. Matcha isn’t just your average cup of joe, there is an interesting history to the use of the powerful green tea leaf powder starting as far back as the 12th century. With more antioxidants than spinach, goji berries and blueberries, matcha tea is a go to for a major antioxidant dose and immunity boost. Even though it contains some caffeine like other teas, matcha tea provides energy over as long as six hours and doesn't cause the coffee caffeine jitters that many people disfavor. If you’re currently expecting a little one, then it’s best to ask your doctor or physician if matcha is okay to have in your diet for a source of energy and minimal caffeine. Typically, a cup of hot brewed matcha only contains 34 mg per cup and pregnant women should not have more than 200 mg caffeine per day.      Matcha has been recognized in multiple recent publications as a food trend to watch in 2015 along with the rise of turmeric, kalette and maple srichacha flavorings. If 2014 was the year of Kale, then 2015 is surely to surprise you with another good for you green, Matcha!

A Taste of Matcha History

     The finely ground green tea leaf powder has been used in Japanese tea ceremonies for many centuries. Traditionally in tea ceremonies, the matcha tea is blended, whisked and then passed to guests. Guests are instructed to first rotate the bowl, sip the tea, wipe the bowl and then pass to the next guest. A Japanese tea ceremony usually lasts approximately four hours and features a three to four course meal in addition to drinking matcha together. Warriors and Buddhist monks have also used matcha powder for many years as ways to either provide energy for battle or a better sense of concentration for meditation.

A Place for Matcha Outside of Tea

     Matcha leaves plenty of room for experimentation in the kitchen outside of just drinking it from a teacup. Chefs, food bloggers and nutrition enthusiasts have been experimenting with the bright green powers of matcha powder in their kitchens, so now it’s time to try it for yourself. If you’re a matcha traditionalist and want to stick to sipping it from a cup, that’s okay too!

Here are some matcha mixed recipes that I really favor.

Try some for yourself and let me know in our comments section what you think, I’d love to hear!

Almond Milk Latte

     One of the simplest and purest ways to use matcha is to create a sweet latte. Brew your traditional matcha tea with ½ teaspoon with ½ cup of hot water (85 degrees is ideal, matcha tea should never be used with boiling water because it will cause the tea to taste grassy) and then froth some original or vanilla flavored almond milk. Add to your existing matcha mixture and stir. A sweet, antioxidant filled treat! (You could also get really fancy and add additional flavors like mocha or peppermint for a winter treat!)

Matcha Sugar Cookies

I adore this matcha sugar cookie recipe. The cookies can be a festive addition to a holiday party too without the use of unnatural food coloring dyes. Follow the link above or your own traditional sugar cookie batter recipe and just add 3 tablespoons to your cookie dough before rolling the dough out for cookie cuttings. Who knew that cookies could pack a healthy punch at snack time (in moderation, of course).

Breakfast Bowl

Creating your own oatmeal or quinoa warm breakfast bowl is an excellent way to start your day. Once you’ve created your bowl of oatmeal or quinoa, add berries and bananas, a drizzle of honey and a teaspoon (or tablespoon) of matcha powder. Stir the powder in and enjoy. Get ready for a bowl full of energy to take on your work day!

Matcha Green Tea Popsicles

Ready for a fun to eat, special treat? You’ll need just a few materials to prepare.

Popsicle tray of your choice

Wooden popsicle sticks

Can of condensed milk

2-3 Tbsp of matcha powder

-Matcha powder whisk (You can use a standard metal whisk but the matcha whisk is much easier to mix the materials more thoroughly) Mix your matcha powder with hot water (85 degrees) and mix well with whisk. Separate the matcha mixture into the popsicle tray (should fill each tray about ¼). Add condensed milk to each popsicle tray and then place a wooden popsicle stick in each. Freeze for approximately 4-6 hours. Pull gently from the popsicle tray by stick and get ready for your new favorite dessert treat!

Benefits Abound

As you begin your own matcha search, make sure to look for pure ingredients and if available, organic matcha powder. A little matcha powder can go a long way, so use sparingly. You can certainly drink matcha tea everyday but even a cup per week is beneficial to your health and immunity levels. Using matcha powder as part of your diet around cold and flu season can be beneficial in building up good immunity for flu prevention. Some people suggest that matcha or green tea gargling is also beneficial for preventing illness. How ever you plan to use matcha, I hope you’ll find new wellness adventures with this powerful and beautiful tea and maybe even discover new ways to incorporate it in your diet and personal wellness path.

Looking for a yoga class, wellness center or a professional with a holistic approach? We can help you find your way to wellness! Use HealingRadius to find alternative healing solutions near you.

[healingradius]

5 Natural Remedies and Genius Uses for Apple Cider Vinegar

Five Great Ways to Use Apple Cider Vinegar

     You might use Apple Cider Vinegar as an ingredient in salad dressings, marinades or vinaigrettes, but what most people aren't aware of is that ACV can also be used as a secret weapon against health-related issues. This inexpensive and natural remedy has antibacterial and anti-fungal properties that help treat diabetes, boost weight loss, cure hiccups, detoxify your body, clear acne, and much more. Who would've thought that a certain type of vinegar had so many proven benefits?

1. Treat Health Problems

     Apple Cider Vinegar is used for a variety of reasons, one being to help treat several health problems like heart disease, diabetes, sore throats and ear infections. For instance, in 2004, the American Diabetes Foundation published a study where 29 individuals were placed into one of three categories: healthy, those with pre-diabetic signs and those diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. Each participant took a dosage of ACV before meals to find that they all had better blood glucose readings afterward. Individuals with pre-diabetic symptoms benefited the most, cutting their blood glucose concentrations by nearly half, while those with Type 2 diabetes improved their blood glucose levels by 25 percent. I’d say the study’s results were significant!

2. Boost Weight Loss

     I have learned that Apple Cider Vinegar can boost weight loss by increasing your metabolism, lowering your blood sugar and suppressing your appetite. A recent study, published in the Journal of Functional Foods, states that sipping a tablespoon of ACV with 8 ounces of water before a meal may help lower your blood sugar and increase insulin sensitivity. In addition, AVC has strong properties that help fight candida, a form of yeast that causes most fungal infections. People who suffer from candida overgrowth usually experience cravings for sugar and carbohydrates, which often lead to weight gain.

3. Cure Hiccups

     There are many natural remedies for hiccups, such as consuming a spoonful of peanut butter, a teaspoon of honey, a dab of hot sauce, or breathing slowly and deeply into a small paper bag. One proven cure is no other than our admired ACV. All you need to do is sip a glass of warm water mixed with one teaspoon of the vinegar.

4. Detox Your Body

     When your body is going through toxic overload, you feel your systems begin to weaken and ache, also considered fatigue, constipation, muscle pain and skin abnormalities, among other discomfort. Fortunately, there is a way to release your insides of waste and chemicals with a safe ACV cleanse. You will need raw vinegar that contains “mother,” the leftover sediment from fermentation process. This remedy aids in digestion and cleaning of the intestines, allowing you to significantly reduce your level of toxins. To add flavor to this not-so-tasty cure, check out Dr. Axe’s detox recipe.

5. Clear Acne

     Acne may appear on your skin no matter what age you are. For me, I seem to get more blemishes at 26 years old than I did during my high school years. People who use ACV to treat acne say their skin is soft, pores are small and scars have faded. How? The malic and lactic acids found in AVC help soften and exfoliate skin, and restore and balance its pH level. Try this AVC “cocktail” recipe that is known to clear up complexions in just a few days.

However you use ACV, make sure to take in small dosages because consuming too much acetic acid may hurt your throat; it is recommended to mix one tablespoon in a glass of water or juice. Share your Apple Cider Vinegar natural remedies, recipes and wellness uses in the comments below!

Alicia Lepore is a proud part of the SBT team as a digital content manager. Her current interests include learning her mother's Italian recipes, reading romance novels and trying to keep up with the latest fashion trends. Alicia dreams of one day traveling the world and experiencing different cultures.

Looking for a yoga class, wellness center or a professional with a holistic approach? We can help you find your way to wellness! Use HealingRadius to find alternative healing solutions near you.

[healingradius]

Why Bananas are SO AWESOME!!

Bananas to the Rescue!

       At usually no more than $.75 cents per pound, bananas are a cost-efficient superfood for your new year wellness plan. Whether you’re a college student on a tight budget, a parent looking for a satisfying snack for you and baby or a working woman who struggles to step away from her desk at lunchtime, bananas are a real treat for your taste-buds and health. It’s time to start planning your new year wellness plan whether it’s to exercise more, focus on a healthier diet, train for a marathon or work on lessening the number of sick days you use at work. Bananas can help you out in a big way! The versatility of bananas is awesome too. You can fit a banana (or two) into any of your daily meals.

Natural Sugars = Natural Energy

     Bananas can give any candy bar, sugar-filled granola and cupcake a run for it’s money. The natural sugars in bananas help produce natural energy in the body for longer periods of time and allow your stomach to feel fuller longer. Bananas provide an excellent partner to have with eggs or toast or to satisfy a rumbling stomach before a 90-minute yoga class. Sometimes the struggle to stay on a healthier eating schedule is difficult due to an increase in stress or needing to eat in a hurry to get where you need to go. When in a rush, you may be tempted to pick up crackers or a chocolate covered energy bar, but a banana provides much more to hunger and the body’s balance of blood sugar than the other two ever could.

Kicking out the Heavy Hitters in Your Gut

     When you’re feeling bloated and sluggish from PMS, bananas are an excellent restorative source of minerals like potassium for calming an unhappy or anxious mood. The compound, tryptophan, is converted into serotonin which helps the body relax, makes digestion easier (bananas are natural soothers for the stomach) and normalizes healthy oxygen production for better brain function and alertness.

     Better balance in body and mind can significantly be stemmed from your gut. Many believe that good health and immunity start in your intestinal gut. Therefore, focusing on your intestinal health with less sugar, regular use of probiotics or foods with lactobacilli and bifidobacteria, and adding bananas to your diet, are extremely beneficial for stronger immunity. Lactobacilli and bifidobacteria can be found in foods like kefir, plain yogurt with active ingredients, non-processed cheeses and fermented vegetables found in kimchi, miso and tempeh.

     Gut health is essential for everyone, pets like dogs included. Adding a little plain yogurt to your dog’s morning breakfast can help settle an upset stomach. Bananas are also a wonderful addition to a dog’s diet whether it’s for a snack or as a substitute for a treat. Just be wise about how much banana you give to your dog. A small piece of banana or ⅛ of an entire banana is plenty for a treat. Too much banana can be translated in the pup’s digestion system as a hazardous carbohydrate.

Resist Starches or Resistance Starch...Wait, What?

   Resisting starches in your diet is wise. Starches are found in heavier foods like pastas, potatoes, rice, beans, peas and corn. Limiting the amount of starches you eat from carbohydrates is smart, especially for a healthier diet and for those with diabetes, since starches make blood sugar regulation much more difficult.

     Resistance starch is beneficial to your gut’s intestinal flora and proper digestion in the body. Avoiding all starches is not wise. Your body needs foods with starch to aid in digestion, to increase absorption of calcium and magnesium and increase food fermentation in the body (fermentation in the body is a good thing!). Just think wisely on which starch-based foods you choose to have. Raw potatoes, sweet potatoes, green bananas, beans, green plantains, onions, garlic and leeks are super sources for the good resistance starches. Of all the listed foods, bananas can be one of the most cost-efficient and easy to eat on-the-go (When was the last time you ate leeks on-the-go?)

Below our some of our favorite and healthy bananas recipes here at the Healing Radius offices for any meal! 

Banana Nutella Toast: Spreading a softened banana and a tablespoon of Nutella on a piece of whole grain toast.

Banana Berry Oatmeal (or Quinoa): A hearty bowl of cooked oatmeal or quinoa mixed with a tablespoon of chia seeds, a teaspoon of honey, sliced bananas and as much almond milk as you desire.

Power Banana Smoothie: Blend one banana, honey, crushed ice, a tablespoon of matcha powder and any type of natural juice (without added sugar). Blend and you’re ready for your workout or 60 minute yoga class. Charge! (Note: Bananas are also a great way to cure a hangover or upset stomach because of their ability to soothe and calm your stomach)

Take a moment and jot down our favorite recipes, especially this one for Coconut Flour Banana Pancakes. We recommend for breakfast or dinner (because who doesn't love breakfast for dinner?!)

Coconut Flour Banana Pancakes

Ingredients Needed:

3 ripe bananas (if your bananas are not quite ripe, place them in a brown paper bag for the day, the paper bag helps to ripen)

3 eggs 

1 Tbsp vanilla extract

1 Tbsp cinnamon OR a handful of dark chocolate chips 

2 Tbsp coconut flour 

Directions:

Mash ripe bananas. Set aside and in another medium sized bowl whisk together eggs, cinnamon or chocolate chips and vanilla. Add spoonfuls of banana until all mixed together. Add both tablespoons of coconut flour and let the bowl set for 5 minutes. Your delicious pancake mixture will thicken naturally and let your flavors absorb together. Set your griddle or skillet on medium heat and use whatever you please to grease your pan (coconut oil, butter, etc). Spoon your pancake mixture into your pan (we like to make smaller silver dollar sized pancakes). Flip once one side starts to lighten brown and crisp. Serve with maple syrup or a natural peanut butter spread.

(Makes 12 silver dollar sized pancakes) 

Austin Lange is a part of the HealingRadius and SBT team as a resident digital content manager. Her current interests include researching pet acupuncture and learning to make the perfect omelet. Austin dreams of someday owning her own Tuscan vineyard and hopes to someday actually finish the Sunday New York Times crossword.

Looking for a yoga class, wellness center or a professional with a holistic approach? We can help you find your way to wellness! Use HealingRadius to find alternative healing solutions near you.

[laurirules]

#zen #meditateonthis #meditation #passion #spiritual #laurirules #positivevibes #buddah #angels #peace #truth #stress #worry #wellness #things #readings #om #yoga #psychicreadings

[purplebuddhaproject]

When people go within and connect with themselves, they realize they are connected to the universe and they are connected to all living things.

Armand Dimele (via purplebuddhaproject)

[healingradius]

A New Sense of Adventure for 2015

Creating and Keeping a Meaningful New Year’s Resolution 

New Year’s resolutions are hard to keep.

Sure, the first month or two, no prob. You’re keeping mindful, attentive and creative to keeping your goal(s). Then, boom! Stress, a breakup, an accident, a death. Something happens and completely blows you off your path of good intentions. Some think that if they meander off their set intention, they can’t go back and start over but you should know, your path is always one that can welcome you back. 2015 can be your year of finding and achieving multiple goals. No goal is too small!

Learning to Let It Go and Be Grateful

If you find yourself obsessing over your goal, it’s time to step back. You can focus on your goal and still have a life of different interests outside of it.

Remember to listen to your body, it can help give you insight into what you really need. If you’re trying to lose weight but are simply miserable on your current weight loss plan, then take a step back and reevaluate. Keeping your weight loss goal is still attainable even if you have a small amount of a food on your naughty list. Recognize the gift of choice and that you have the power to choose what you put in your mouth. If you miss the days of a big bowl of creamy, vegan mac and cheese, approach it differently. Make a smaller bowl, add in veggies like steamed broccoli or cauliflower and eat it with a steamy cup of a hot ginger tea on the side to stimulate digestion. By approaching something like healthier food choices a little differently, and not completely abandoning what you really enjoy, you can create a new habit of not overindulging.

If you’re focused on gratitude and making positive steps, whether little or large each day, then you’re more likely to reach the goal you've put in place. A new year’s approach to wellness through natural based healing methods like acupuncture, holistic medicine and Ayurveda treatments could be a good start to new year’s wellness. If your body is coping with pain, ailment or stress and being treated with harsh prescription medicines, trying alternative health methods through Healing Radius could be a new health outlook for your new year.

Find a Buddy

Finding someone to work together with towards a goal can be extremely helpful. Think of the person working on a goal with you as your superhero sidekick. That person will face similar struggles during your journey and share experiences with you that will make your mission and ambition more focused. As a pretty intermediate runner, it’s very helpful for me to have running pals that are experiencing the cold morning wind, watery eyes and shin splint pain with me. Sharing this time with someone brings each of us closer to one another whether we have similar goals outside of our running life or not. Even if my running buddy has a polar opposite personality, I know that person is going to share a laugh with me when our faces are frozen from a winter morning run and when I’m hitting a mental wall where I tell myself I can’t go any more. I know that person is going to tap me on the shoulder and say, “You've got this, let’s go!”

Taking your NYR to the Office

It doesn't matter if you’re a yoga studio owner, an administrative assistant or a corporate lawyer, workplace goals can be shared anywhere. If you’re trying to avoid eating lunch out every day or want to create more friendly engagement in your office, finding someone in your workplace who shares the same interest can help bring positive energy and good vibes. Choosing attainable goals that are engaging for you and others in the workplace is a good start. Make sure to not be forceful or competitive with your goals, it can scare others off. Everyone is different and many may not share your enthusiasm in achieving a new year’s goal but you can be welcoming and warm if they decide they do want to participate.

Approaching Change with an Open Heart

Changing the way you view food, exercise, meditation, saving money, negative thoughts or whatever path you've chosen as your own for a new year resolution, requires an open heart and acceptance of the good and bad struggles that may come. Accepting that you may be afraid of change is the first big step in working towards action in your new wellness goal. You may want to consider creating a personal mantra to help you focused on your goals and calm in your soul. Remember to not push yourself to extremes, but remain observant of how you are feeling each day and trust that each moment you promise to show up and be present.

I would love to hear about some of your own New Year wellness resolutions! In sharing our goals together, we work towards creating a healthy community of change and positive progress.

Cheers to a Happy New Year, Happy Adventures and a Happy New You! 

[laurirules]

Truth!

#letgo #lesson #loss #loving #truth #quoteoftheday #quote #mistake #learn #angels #angelguidance #wellness #fitness #yoga #meditation #readings #psychic

[themiracleforest-deactivated202]

[healingradius]

What a wonderful and mindful reminder :)