hotchickpea

Elaborating. Holistic nutritional coach, children's book author and child-whisperer, raw food enthusiast (and general food enthusiast).

[thishotchickpea]

Flush da fat

Contrary to popular belief, the simple formula of calories out vs. calories burned is not complete in itself for weight loss. The process of breaking down fat is very much dependent on what you're consuming. (Duh, Tory. But do you know how many people count calories and think a 100 calorie apple is equivalent to a 100 calorie pack of artificially sweetened mini brownies?!)

The process begins with your liver. You know how people pack on the 'freshman fifteen' when they suddenly start drinking obscene amounts in college? This isn't only due to caloric intake, it also is a consequence of taxing the organ that is responsible for flushing fat! 

Everyday your liver produces about a quart of a yellowish liquid called bile.  Bile acts as an emulsifier, breaking down fats and oils so they can better mix with water for metabolizing. If fats and oils were left intact, they'd get stuck in the liver part way through the flushing process. After bile mixes with the fats, oils and water you've ingested, this lovely concoction is pumped into the small intestine. If you're eating enough fiber, this unwanted fatty mixture will stick to the fiber and be easily released through the bowels. Goodbye fat!

As you see, the quality and quantity of bile is essential to the fat-removal. It is the liver's job to produce said abundant, high-quality bile. The liver can be impeded in numerous ways:

1. Bile is made up of water, electrolytes, lecithin, cholesterol, and bile salts. If the liver is not provided with the all of these nutrients, bile cannot be produced.

2. If the body is dehydrated due to lack of filtered water, the liver will produce thick, sticky bile that cannot flush fat.

3. If the liver becomes clogged with excessive toxins (think processed food additives, cigarette smoke, pollution, non-organic/non-natural body lotion), it cannot produce enough bile. 

Unhealthy liver = no bile = no fat-flushing. 

If you cannot flush fat, it will begin to store around your liver. Surprise-- your liver is located in your abdomen, hence you will start gaining a roll of chub around that area… and then everywhere else. 

Here are ways to IMPROVE LIVER FUNCTION, WOOOOO:

1. DARK LEAFY GREENS: This comes up often. I think you might have noticed by now that I LOVE DARK LEAFY GREENS. Eat them up! They help with breaking down toxins and purifying the blood.

2. Cruciferous vegetables: Cabbage, broccoli, bok choy, kale, and brussel sprouts contain sulfur. Sulfur attaches to certain unneeded chemicals in the body and turns them into water-soluble non-toxins. Get that shit out of there!

3. Other sulfur-y things: Eggs, garlic, onions, red peppers. WE LOVE SULFUR. Also, eggs, garlic and onions encourage additional bile secretion. 

4. Asparagus, avocados and walnuts: These superheroes contain a compound called gluthathione that seeks out ugly toxins, attaches itself to them, and escorts them out the pooper. 

5. Citrus fruits: Oranges, lemons and limes contain Vitamin C which stimulates the production of our pal, gluthathione ^. 

6. SOLUBLE FIBER: We also love fiber! Remember, fiber attaches to fats in the small intestine and, ah hem, gets things moving. Pears, apples, oat bran, and legumes are great sources of soluble fiber. 

7. Beets: Beets contain betaine, which thins bile and makes it more productive.

8. Artichoke hearts: Artichoke hearts contain antioxidants called flavonoids that protect your precious liver cells. 

9. Brown rice: Think of brown rice as the custodian. It cleans, buffs and makes those intestines shine. 

10. TUMERIC: Feeling spicy? Don't answer that. This spice is the highest known source of beta-carotene (an antioxidant), and it protects your little liver from stupid toxins. 

11. Dandelion: You can use this herb in teas, take it as a supplement, juice the greens, or as a tincture mixed with water. Dandelion stimulates bile production, as well as assists in the breaking down of fat. 

12. I'm out of breath. MILK THISTLE: This herb has been used for 2,000 years for liver-healing. it contains an ingredient, silymarin, that can protect the liver from alcohol and other dangerous toxins. Silymarin boosts gluthathione levels in the liver by over 33%! (Milk thistle tea will not work, the silymarin is not water soluble. Get your milk thistle fix through capsules or tincture). 

Fear not if you've encountered the freshman 15! Or the 26-year-old 15! Take care of your liver, and it will take care of your chunky thighs.

If you would like LOADS more info of this sort, check out The Science of Skinny. It is NOT a book about dieting, it is a LIFE CHANGER. 

For questions, feel free to email [email protected].

[thishotchickpea]

Get out of your way.

I've had a heavy heart for the past two days because a situation is unfolding very differently from how I expected, and how I wanted. Seeing *real* pain around me, people experiencing death, disease, poverty, real danger, has left me feeling silly and very guilty. 

Trying to be the person I encourage others to be, I know this is a learning experience. And through the tears, I would muster a bit of courage and positivity- then fall victim to my heavy heart again. I knew a blog post would come out of this- but I thought it'd be along the lines of 'Channeling sadness into productivity' or 'Meditating to find happiness.' 

But then, as it always turns out, the answer was plopped into my lap. I can't manipulate my feelings. The only real change I can make is to genuinely accept and embrace what's happening. 

Gabrielle Berstein, one of my idols, posted this video yesterday. In short, she came to the epiphany that 'a miracle is not getting your way, a miracle is when you get out of your way.' Genius.

So, get out of your own way. Get over yourself. LET GO of the ideas you created about the way things 'should' be, and let them unfold as they were *meant* to be. Enjoy the ride.

(Thanks, Gabrielle!)

[thishotchickpea]

No foo' to Tofu.

I've been vegetarian, mostly vegan, for quite a while now. (Note, I am not against eating meat- especially when done in an EDUCATED way. Research what you're putting into your body!) Most people know this about me, and consequently, are VERY excited to tell me when they have opted out of eating meat. Unfortunately, the misconception is that soy products- fake meats- are the healthy alternative. Sometimes I don't have the heart to squash their genuine attempts- but the truth is, soy ain't doing you no favors.

The soy industry began when manufacturers were in need of a cheap oil. Thus, soy beans were planted in hopes of extracting soy oil. The process, though, produced a residue- a soy protein byproduct. Because this soy protein could not be fed to animals, manufacturers looked for another huge market… human consumption! Lucky us.

The endless masses of useless soy byproduct motivated a multi-million dollar advertising campaign and FDA lobbying that resulted in over 74% of US consumers believing soy was nutritional. 

There are two types of soy, unfermented and fermented. Within these two groups there are two subgroups, organic and Genetically Modified. In North America, between 75-89% of soy beans are grown genetically modified. NEVER EVER EVER NEVER EVER EAT GENETICALLY MODIFIED SOY. End of story. As with most products, always aim for organic!!!!

Unfermented soy is the damn devil. Unfermented soy products such as tofu, bean curd, soy milk, soy infant formula, soy protein powders, and soy meat products are made from hydrolysed soy powder, which derives from the soy bean. Soy beans are from the legume family, as are many other beans. Legumes and all whole grains (rice, wheat, barley, etc.) contain phytic acid. In the body, phytic acid bonds to minerals, proteins, and starches, making them less absorbable for nutrition. So, in large amounts, phytic acid can block the absorption of substances that are needed for most processes within the body.

This can lead to a myriad of issues, including, but not limited to:

contributing to thyroid disorder (especially in women)

promoting kidney stones

weakening the immune system

contributing to food allergies and digestive intolerance 

contributing to pancreatic disorders

disrupting endocrine function and potentially causing infertility

potential early onset of puberty

potentially promoting breast cancer in adult women

increasing the body's need for B12 and D vitamins 

And it doesn't end there! Have you ever heard someone say soy can give men 'man boobs'? Unfortunately, this is true. Perhaps the most disturbing effect of soy consumption is from the phytoestrogrens it contains. These little buggers mimic the female hormone, estrogen. For a reference point, drinking two glasses of soy milk a day for only one month puts enough phytoestrogens in the body to alter a women’s menstral cycle. Babies who are fed only soy formula are estimated to ingest the equivalent of five birth control pills worth of estrogen A DAY. 

 But what about fermented soy? 

Well, when soy undergoes the fermentation process, the phytic acid is neutralized- making FERMENTED SOY something worth eating. In fact, fermented soys- such as organic miso, organic tempeh, soy sauce- are very friendly to the helpful bacteria in one’s lower intestine. So, ORGANIC FERMENTED soy is the only *nutritional* option. 

I'll post next week for other dairy and meat free options, sans soy. For now, check here for a quick and delicious alternative to dairy and soy milk! 

For any questions, feel free to email me at [email protected]. 

[inhabitude-deactivated20231116]

When I speak of love I am not speaking of some sentimental and weak response. I am not speaking of that force which is just emotional bosh. I am speaking of that force which all of the great religions have seen as the supreme unifying principle of life. Love is somehow the key that unlocks the door which leads to ultimate reality.

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., 1967 (via inhabitude)

[selenemooneffe]

We often forget that WE ARE NATURE. Nature is not something separate from us. So when we say that we have lost our connection to nature, we’ve lost our connection to ourselves.

Andy Goldsworthy (via selenemooneffe)

Truth!!!

(via healinglifenaturally)

[thishotchickpea]

GMOs?

A GMO, or a genetically modified organism, is an organism whose genetical makeup has been altered- such as mutating, deleting, or adding genetic material. 

This means that GMOs are plants, animals or microorganisms whose genetic code has been altered to give it characteristics it does not naturally possess. 

So.. what's the problem? Although there have been attempts to modify organisms to enhance nutritional benefits, the majority of our food is modified to increase tolerance to herbicides and to insects. When plants are grown with herbicide-tolerant genes injected, farmers can spray large amounts of weed killer directly on the plants without the risk of also killing the crop. This means that the farmer can spray massive amounts of chemicals directly onto the fruits and vegetables you eat. Also, Insect-resistant GMO crops produce pesticides within the plant, killing or deterring insects from eating the plant. Although the farmer no longer has to spray pesticides on the plants, the crop itself is toxic with the pesticides residing within. This means you're eating pesticides.

The biggest issue with genetically modifying anything is that the long term effects are completely unpredictable. Mother nature has constructed the organisms on our Earth in a precise and delicate way, and we are all interconnected in very complex and interdependent way. We know we can change one gene to reflect a desired trait- but we have no idea how this can spiral out of control, creating a domino effect on not only the crop- but the specimens that ingest the crop, and every organism tied to that crop through nature. 

There has never been a complete and conclusive study on the effects of GMOs on humans. We DO know that these mutated foods are alien to our insides, as our bodies have not evolved to understand and utilize them. We don't even know if the Frankenstein genes in the GMO crops can end up mutating our own genes in the long run! 

We also know the long term effects on animals tested with GMO products, and the results aren't pretty.

-  Severely damaged villi, finger-like projections of the intestinal lining that absorb nutrients. This means we cannot extract the nutrients from food that we need to LIVE.

- Skin problems

- Fertility complications (infertility, miscarriage, premature births, low birth weight.)

- The 'pesticides' formed within GM crops are designed to kill insects from the inside out, so it's probably killing our gut bacteria. Gut bacteria is needed for ALL of our systems, including digestion and the immune system. 

- The bacteria and virus resistant genes in GMOs mix with our gut bacteria genes, creating antibiotics resistant gut bacteria. This not only can make us resistant to antibiotics, but we may become more susceptible to viral and bacterial infections, or even cancer. 

And this is just the beginning, sadly. Even if a farmer doesn't intend to grow GM crops, wind carries the toxins to new crops. The effects of GM crops will outlast global warming and nuclear waste.

So, how do can we change this? Stop buying GMO products. If even 5% of of consumers stop buying GMOs, food producers and suppliers will be forced to change! Also, be wary of eating out. It can be exhausting, but ask your waiter to cook your food in butter, olive oil or ghee instead of GMO soy oil and canola oil. This market shift occurred quickly and successfully in Europe, we can do it!!

Here are the biggest GMO culprits, STEER CLEAR!:

Soy

Corn

Canola

Cotton

Beet sugar

Zucchini and crookneck squash

For a full list, visit here. Want to learn more? (There's SO MUCH MORE TO LEARN!) Check out the movies Food Inc., The Future of Food and King Corn.  

For questions, please feel free to always email me at [email protected]. 

[livinghappilyeverafter]

[thishotchickpea]

There are a lot of vague, confusing terms used in holistic healing. So, what do they all mean?

Western medicine: A system in which medical doctors and other healthcare professionals (such as nurses, pharmacists, and therapists) treat symptoms...

[thishotchickpea]

Hey captain-skeptica and biologyweeps!

I get it, it sounds like a bunch of bullshit. First off, I am a student, I am learning. I am figuring out what resonates, and what doesn't... and there's no shame in that. Hell, I am on antibiotics right now, in no way am I saying that Western Medicine is useless and there are some magical plants out there that'll solve the world's problems FOR THE LOW COST OF $99.99! 

I got into holistic medicine after I experienced 4 cancer diagnoses in my social/familial circle within 2 months. That scared the shit out of me, and prompted me to start questioning the medicinal paradigm. I don't have it all figured out, and I won't ever. But there are flaws to every system, and unfortunately there are a lot of flaws with our pharmaceutical paradigm. Just yesterday I went to pick up a prescription and the pharmacist told me my doctor had prescribed triple the dose 'just in case,' and threw in two other prescriptions to off-set the 'side effects' from my antibiotic. Not to mention, he initially told me I had strep throat (which I knew couldn't be correct given my symptoms...) and I had to call him back into the office to take another look. This is an issue. It's not so much an issue with people like you or myself, people who question the what and the why-- but it's an immense issue for people who are incredibly naive and believe every word that comes out of their doctor's mouths. There's no denying profit plays a huge role in American drugs- and this is not going away. But, if I can advocate for people to pause for a moment, do some research, spend some time with themselves and take inventory, before automatically reaching for the pills- than I've made a little bit of progress.

As for quacks who have no fucking idea what they are doing and take innocent people's money-- I hate them too. I am a student, I MAKE ZERO DOLLARS off of holistic anything at this point. I wouldn't EVER claim to treat someone if I wasn't qualified to do so. There ARE people who have their PhD in Homeopathic medicine. Much of Europe uses homeopathy on up to 40% of their clients. I get it if it's not for you- but the point is, healing is an individual thing. When we start clumping everyone into one, clean solution... we make a big mess. I just want people to start being proactive about their own bodies. 

Thanks for the input. It's one thing to work within a bubble of solely holistic people, never challenging ideas or concepts- it's another to gain some real life perspective from people who are passionate about the other end of the spectrum. 

[thishotchickpea]

What is Homeopathy? (And other useful info.)

There are a lot of vague, confusing terms used in holistic healing. So, what do they all mean?

Western medicine: A system in which medical doctors and other healthcare professionals (such as nurses, pharmacists, and therapists) treat symptoms and diseases using drugs, radiation, or surgery. (Also called allopathic medicine, biomedicine, conventional medicine, mainstream medicine, and orthodox medicine.)

Alternative medicine: Approaches to healing that are non-traditional (not Western medicine) that are used IN PLACE OF ‘traditional’ medicine.

Complementary medicine: Approaches to medicine that are non-traditional that are used in conjunction with Western Medicine.

Integrative medicine: The practice of medicine that focuses on the whole person and makes use of all appropriate therapeutic approaches, healthcare professionals, and disciplines to achieve optimal health and healing.

Holistic: Referencing the importance of the whole and the interdependency on it’s parts. In holistic medicine/holistic healing, if there is a dis-ease (something not at ease) within the body, we do not treat just the issue- but rather the whole body. Not only is the physical body apart of a person’s ‘whole,’ but the health of one’s mind and body are also essential to a person’s wellness.

Naturopathy/Naturopathic medicine: Naturopathic medicine recognizes the inherent healing intelligence in every human body. Doctors do not use surgery or synthetic drugs, but rather natural herbs, natural therapies (such as massage, acupuncture), particular diets, heat, the sun, etc, to aid in the healing process. Naturopathic doctors are educated in Botanical medicine (plant medicine), Homeopathy (we’ll get to that next), Nutrition, Physical medicine (massage, physical therapy), Oriental medicine (acupuncture, acupressure), Environmental medicine (detoxing from environmental toxins, immune restoration), Counseling and Stress Management, and minor surgery (such as superficial wounds, removal of cysts, etc.).

OK. So, What is Homeopathy?

Homeopathy is a form of alternative medicine that is holistic, scientifically based, safe to use, inexpensive, and can cure chronic disease. Homeopathy remedies utilize the body’s inner wisdom to self-regulate and self-heal.

Homeopathy was founded by Samuel Hahnemann over 200 years ago, although the principles on which it was based have been utilized in healing for thousands of years.

OK, So. Um. What is Homeopathy?

The word Greek words ‘Homio’ and ‘Pathos’ mean similar and suffering… so homeopathy is similar suffering.

Some examples:

What happens when you cut an onion? Your nose starts running, your eyes get teary. These symptoms are similar to the common cold or an allergy attack. So, in homeopathy, this would mean we would treat someone with a cold/allergies with a remedy made from onion… Allium cepa. How does this make any sense?! I know, I know.

It’s undeniable that our bodies are incredibly intelligent. In fact, they are far more intelligent than we give them credit for. When we feel like shit, it’s our bodies telling us something is wrong. When our eyes water, it is our bodies getting rid of something from the eye. When we have discharge, it is the body getting rid of something nasty. When we experience swelling after an injury, this is the body alerting us that the body part is not well- and, it’s the body rushing white blood cells and protective fluid to the scene. Every organism survives because it has incredible adaptive capabilities, and one of the ways an organism adapts is through the creation of symptoms.

Western medicine recognizes symptoms, and assumes they must be inhibited, suppressed, and controlled. (Fevers must be reduced, inflammation must be suppressed, discharge must be stopped.) Because these symptoms are being expressed for an explicit reason, impeding the process can cause short term relief— but long term health problems. Treating the symptom is like unplugging the smoke detector. Sure, the beeping stops- but there is still a fire.

Homeopathic medicine utilizes medicinal substances that cause and mimic these symptoms or defenses to augment a person’s healing abilities.

Take immunizations and allergy shots- we inject ourselves with the actual sickness/allergen to teach our bodies how to fight it. (Immunizations and allergy shots are the two typical ways Wester Medicine utilizes homeopathy.)

That was JUST THE TIP. I’m not encouraging you to throw away all of Western Medicine, but I next time you think PILLS are the only way… try something a bit less.. poisonous.

Take a look at this simple graph for Eastern Vs. Western Medicine.

Take a look at the Oscillococcinum I’m taking for my cold. The ‘remedy’ is carefully and scientifically obtained, diluted and sprayed on to these mini pellets. You then eat the pellets!

[thishotchickpea]

Antibiotics.

I grew up as the Antibiotic Queen, I used to go through up to 10 rounds of  each year for sinus infections. I had absolutely no idea how much irreprible damage I was creating within my body.

Before we begin, to be clear, there are no 'side effects,' to drugs- there are just straight 'effects.' We take a pill, and consequent processes take place. From this day forward, consider ALL effects when taking medication. 

So, what is an antibiotic? An antibiotic is a chemical or collection of chemicals that are used to destroy or inhibit the growth of bacteria within the body. 

Yes, this is good- especially considering we used to die from many of the small sicknesses antibiotics can now cure. The issue lies in our society's over-prescribing of antibiotics. The usage comes with a price.

Antibiotic overuse: By using antibiotics that aren't warranted, your body becomes accustomed to the drug, lessening it's effectiveness. This means that next time, you'll need more.

Antibiotics can't differentiate between good or bad bacteria: Our bodies, specifically our intestines, rely on 'healthy' bacteria to function properly. Antibiotics not only destroy the flora (healthy gut bacteria), but they promote yeast (or 'Candida') growth which can lead to Candida overgrowth. Candida is the cause of ENDLESS ailments including, but not limited to, exhaustion, fungal infections, skin rashes, digestive issues, autoimmune diseases (Lupus, MS, Rhumatoid arthritis), anxiety/depression, vaginal infections (UTI, yeast infections), and severe allergies. In 2006, it was estimated that 70% of people suffer from Candida- and this number is only increasing as we continue to consume processed foods, refined carbs and more MEDS. 

Over-prescribed: I had sinus infections so frequently that I'd go to my doctor and she'd prescribe me antibiotics without even looking at me. Now, I make sure they take a peek- and 2/3 of the time, my headaches are due to migraines- not even sinus infections. Many moms feed their children antibiotics 'just in case' at the hint of sickness. Colds, flus, bronchitis, and many sore throats DO NOT warrant antibiotics. Next time, insist your doctor take a close look before popping pills.

Antibiotics in your food: Most of the meat consumed in the US comes from farms that are overpopulated and, quite frankly, filled with really sick animals. To aid in preventing/curing sickness, farmers feed their animals antibiotics regularly. Guess what! You are what you eat. The antibiotics you consume from animal meat still wreaks havoc on your body. 

This is just the tip (JUST THE TIP!) of the issue. Knowledge is power, DARE to not do drugs.. unless it's warranted. OMG is it Friday yet. 

[thishotchickpea]

Other Mammals' Bodily Fluids

I know, you’ve been told all your life that milk is essential to your diet.

A liiiiiiittttlllleeee bit about milk:

-Even cows don’t drink their own mother’s milk past infancy.

-ALL COW’S MILK, organic or conventional, contains 59 hormones, up to 52 powerful antibiotics, dioxins, pesticides, herbicides, blood, feces, pus, bacteria and viruses.

-YOU’RE DRINKING THE BODILY FLUIDS OF ANOTHER MAMMAL. Imagine drinking someone else’s breast milk, (barf). APPLY THE SAME PRINCIPLE…to a dirty animal. :)

Think about it. The environment these cows live in is FILTHY. They are regularly sick, cramped, and their raw utters are used far more than nature intended (sores, pus.) The milk comes from those udders. The end.

(I went easy on you. Want to know more? Google!)

Solution! Nut milks! If you’re new to nut milk, I suggest you make your own. The store bought brands won’t impress you. If you’ve only tried store bought, make this ONCE and I promise you at least humor the idea of ditching your cow’s nipple juice.

Coconut Cashew Milk :

1. soak 1 cup raw, organic cashews in water for at least 4 hours (can soak overnight)

2. Soak 2 organic dates for 4 hours

3. Add soaked, drained cashews to blender

4. Add 3 cups filtered water to blender

5. Add soaked, drained, pitted dates to blender

4. Add one dash cinnamon to blender

5. Add one tablespoon real maple syrup to blender

6. Add one sprinkle of sea salt to blender

7. Add 1 cup organic, shredded coconut (or don’t!)

8. BLEND

If you have a super blender, your milk will be the consistency of whole milk. Tweak it to fit your preferences! Add more water, more maple syrup, more coconut, some cocoa powder… go wild, you can’t mess this up.

If your blender is not producing a smooth milk, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth (or small-netted, CLEAN, not-dyed material).

ENNNNJOOOOYYYY. I use my nut milks in smoothies, on my granola, for homemade hot chocolate.. or just as a cold drink.

Have questions? Email me at [email protected]

[thishotchickpea]

hotchickpea using chickpeas.

Everyone asks if I have posted how to make hummus… you're all just so witty. Here is the quickest hummus recipeeeeee everrrrr.

Materials:

-1 can ORGANIC chickpeas

-quality olive oil

-salt and pepper

-lemon cut in half 

-food processor or blender 

Open your chickpeas and strain the excess liquid. Add chickpeas to blender/food processor. Blend. Drizzle one swoop of olive oil, sprinkle some salt and pepper, squeeze one squeeze of lemon juice out of your lemon. Most likely it'll look a bit like this:

(Notice is plastic cupcake and ice-cream cone. Those are important materials too.)

This is a bit clumpy, so add one more swoop of olive oil. Taste and add another squeeze of lemon if needed. Blend again.

The end.

Other fun ingredients to try:

-I add cayenne pepper to mine

-a drizzle or two of tahini

-paprika

-chopped garlic

-olives

You've seen hummus before, mimic your favorite kinds. The difference in making it yourself is that you KNOW every that is going into your mouth. If buying hummus, read the labels and do not purchase if there's any additional crap inside. (Most likely there will be.)

Enjoy. 

PS. My boss made this hummus. She would like to be credited. ;-)

[thishotchickpea]

MISSION COMPLETE.

I made it through the week of detox! But, admission, I cheated a bit. Over the weekend I ate A CUPCAKE and had some alcohol. The great news, though, is that when you start training your body to crave alkalizing foods, you can quickly get back on track. 

My Skin: Cleared up! I am actually surprised about this, as with detoxing you usually get messier before it clears up. (Toxins that are released through the skin can cause irritation and acne). My butt is still a work in progress, I will post at the end of the month to see if refraining from processed foods has changed anything! I have been using my homemade lotion bar all week, even on my face, and my skin feels AMAZING. In the past I've only used coconut oil for lotion, and in the process of detoxing it makes me itch like crazy. 

My insides: I was already peeing a 7.5 by Wednesday, I have been at a stead 8 since then! I've also lost 4 lbs (this could be due to a variety of things, especially as a woman) but most importantly I just feel LIGHT and energized. 

My mind: I meditate every morning and most nights before bed. I'd like to get better about meditating on the weekends, though- and to incorporate long meditations once in a while. (I like to do 15 minutes.) Despite the absolute chaos of my life, I am feeling quite relaxed and together.

My room: It's already messy again. This is a weekly process! Continually clean your space.

Another admission. I usually eat like this all of the time. Of course I cheat… and sometimes often… but there's a major difference between cheating when you REALLY want something, and maintaining your integrity for the rest of the week, and with just eating crap because it's there. I hope you were inspired to try a couple of this week's approaches, it's never too late to start :)

Ps. If you consciously cut out MOST processed food, your life and your health will change. Try it! 

[thishotchickpea]

Make your own poison-free lotion!

The ingredients/materials needed:

-raw, organic, virgin coconut oil

-raw, pure cocoa butter

-organic beeswax 

-double-boiling system, I just used a large glass jar within a pan

-a mold. I used mini brownie and fondant molds. I like the bendy ones because I can pop out the lotion bars easily. 

-measuring cups

-mixing stick, I used one wooden chopstick

This is easy. All ingredients are 1:1- I used 1/2 cup of each ingredient. Dump them all into your jar/bowl/whatever you're using to double-boil.

Next, melt. 

Stir and melt some more. You want to get everything melted to liquid. 

When everything is melted, you may add essential oils for different 'flavors.' 20 or so drops will do, go with the flow. I did not use any oils for this batch.

Next, carefully pour the liquid into your molds. 

I put mine into the freezer because I am an impatient child.

And,.. ta da! A lotion bar. Rub it on your skin and a layer of lotion will come off. I don't mind thick lotion, so this is perfect for me- I've even been using it on my face. If you'd like it to be LESS buttery, add a couple extra ounces of the beeswax. You can always re-melt and re-mold for tweaks to the recipe.

This lotion is NOURISHING to your skin because it doesn't have toxic chemicals or alcohol, perfect for detoxing! 

*Get some empty chapstick containers and make your own lip moisturizer with the same recipe!*

:) For any questions, feel free to email me at [email protected] 

[thishotchickpea]

Today's mission is simple.. and easy. Clean your sacred space. For me, my sacred space is my bedroom. Organize, throw away old magazines, hang up those posters that have been rolled up under your bed since you moved in, switch over your wardrobe to your winter clothes, wipe down surfaces, vacuum, swifter, put up curtains, throw away your ex's letters... Tonight, before bed, pack your bag for the morning. Make a smoothie and put it in the refrigerator so you have no excuse not to start your day with it tomorrow. Be the king/queen of YOUR space. It's impossible to feel organized, cleansed, ready for the new... when you're sitting in old junk. :)

[thishotchickpea]

Today's mission is simple, but not easy. Detoxing the mind, cleaning out the chaos, removing the negative, finding peace- it can all be attained through… MEDITATIIIIIOOOONNNNNN.

Pictured above is my meditation pillow and a sandalwood mala. Some people meditate while holding the mala and threading the string of beads through their fingers. As they reach each bead, they repeat a mantra. A mantra is just a word, phrase, or sound repeated over and over again to aid in concentration while meditating. 

I don't use malas while I meditate, but I love wearing my sandalwood mala because the smell it emits makes me feel calm and at peace.

Using a meditation pillow (or any pillow!) is not essential, but if you're going to be meditating often, it's a great idea because sitting on a hard floor and trying to maintain a straight back can get tiring. To use the pillow, sit on it with the backend of your butt and fold your legs in front of you like a paperclip. (Essentially 'Indian style' *the new terms is criss-cross, applesauce to be more PC*, but without your legs touching, they fall parallel to one another.) You do not want any body part, especially heavy legs, resting on one another because it could bring you out of concentration if something starts getting tingly.

HOW TO MEDITATE.

Sit on your pillow. Place your hands palm down or palm up on your thighs, or fold them in your lap. Straighten your back so your spine is stacked- meaning, do not flex your muscles to hold yourself up, make sure you're positioned so your spine just stacks upon itself.

Close your eyes. Breathe deeply. I like to use 'meditation music' (search for it on iTunes, basically just some swirly, calming noises). I also like the music to be coming from headphones, as I find it most effectively takes me out of bedroom and into meditation land. 

Once you're comfortable, let all thoughts fall away. This is easier said than done, but I promise it gets easier. The trick to meditating is to stay PRESENT. You must be fully present to keep tabs on your brain, as it tends to want to check out and let your thoughts run wild again. Every time this happens, just bring yourself back to the calm. If a thought occurs, observe it as if it were a cloud, do not indulge in it- and it'll pass. 

Here are some techniques I use personally: 

1. Put abstract pictures to the music you're listening to. I imagine swirling dark colors. Just sit back and observe. 

2. Imagine you're floating in space. Sometimes my head feels like a big balloon and I probably look like a lunatic as I move it around. While you're in space, just observe the stars- don't formulate full thoughts like 'oh look, there's Earth.' We want words and thoughts to take a rest for a bit.

3. Count from 1-10 over and over again. I like to imagine the number, get a good look at it, then let it dissipate… then I move on to the next number. Again, no complete thoughts. Just observe, let colors, shapes, and light take over.

4. Repeat a mantra. A good one to start with is 'Om.' Actually be vocal about it, say the Om aloud. I like to start with a powerful 'OH' then bring my lips together to hum the rest of the word. Let the vibrations feel good.

5. Imagine the air going in your lungs and traveling back out with each breath. No complete thoughts, just look at the air.

6. Imagine you're inside your brain. This one is what usually happens naturally to me. I am myself, seeing through my own eyes- and standing in my brain. My brain seems like a black empty cave, PS. This might be indicative, so maybe you shouldn't read my blog anymore.

Kidding. Happy meditating. I still have yet to write WHY meditation is good for you, but for now, just know it's as essential to cleanse your brain as it is your body. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at [email protected] and I will do my best to answer them! 

[thishotchickpea]

Trying not to ambush you here… take a deep breath.

Here is the food cleanse I am doing this week. The rules are easy, the food variety is aplenty, the key words are *raw* and *alkaline*.

First off, 'raw' food is any fruit, vegetable, nut or seed that hasn't been heated beyond 118 degrees. 118 is a random number, Toryness. I know, my friends, I didn't make this up. After 118 degrees, many of the nutrients are destroyed by heat. In fact, up to 70% of nutrients can be destroyed. Air exposure, pesticides, herbicides and GMO-ness also destroy nutrients. This means if you're eating cooked non-organic zucchini that traveled to your grocery store from Columbia, it probably no longer contains ANY nutrients. For us, this means we need to consume mostly uncooked, ORGANIC, local if you can, vegetables, fruits, and raw nuts and seeds. 

This week (every week), I am aiming to eat 70% raw food in every meal. Your plate should look like this: 

 The remaining 30 percent be cooked! But they also must be alkalizing. (Raw foods are all alkalizing.)

So, alkalinity. Every food causes an effect within the body that falls along a pH scale. The word 'alkaline' is essentially the same as 'basic,' so we are looking at a pH scale that has ACID at one end and ALKALINE at the other. Unfortunately, you cannot determine how a food will react within the body by observing it's qualities outside of the body. For instance, a lemon is acidic in nature. Within the body, it is very alkalizing. How do we know, Tory? You google it. Seriously, I'm googling all day. You can also use this ugly boring chart for a reference: 

WHY DO WE CARE ABOUT ALKALINITY! Well, as you see on the chart, it appears that most 'healthy' foods fall on the alkaline side. This is because the *acid* that is formed within the body needs to be neutralized by chemicals within your body to maintain a healthy environment. The chemicals needed to neutralize the acid are needed in other places, though- so when you're eating crap, you're basically stealing nutrients from areas of your body to compensate for that crap. For example, when you drink cow's milk (that's full of gross chemicals to kill the bacteria passed along by the sick, poorly treated cows who produce it), it is acid forming. So, IRONICALLY, calcium is leached from your bones to neutralize the effect. Hmmm… more on this some other day. Oh, there's so much more to say. o_0

Basically, alkaline foods are CLEANSING, and provide you with nutrients.  Just remember that part. A fun way to check if you're doing a great job maintaining a happy environment within your body is to check the pH of your pee. Don't worry, I do it all the time. (Haaaa.) Seriously. 

As you see, as of Monday, the environment in my body is very acidic. I ate a ton of crap throughout the holidays. I got a 5.75 reading, that's poo. We are aiming for 7.5-8. Pretend it's a competition, that's what I do. Heck, let me know if you get an 8, we can celebrate.

I'll check at the end of this cleanse to see if I brought myself back up to 8! I KNOW YOU CAN'T WAIT TO KNOW!

Now that we got all of that out of the way, here's what's happening.

I am doing this 'cleanse' in addition to my alkaline eating. I've never done one before, I will let you know if I notice any differences. 

I start the day by dumping that little packet of dust into my mouth, and swishing it around with a sip of water for 45 seconds. Then I have to swallow it. It surprisingly tastes a lot like nothing, but with a hint of something not so good.

THEN. I drink warm lemon water and take my food-based, all natural, multi-vitamin. 

Then I take this wheatgrass shot and try not to throw up.

Before breakfast, I take 3 cleanse pills with water. 

For breakfast, I drink a whole juice (smoothie that's not frozen). The rule for your juicesmoothie is JUST ADD LEAFY GREENS. Make a smoothie, but make sure you have 2 cups of spinach or kale inside. 

Before lunch I take 3 more cleanse pills with water.

For lunch, I eat 70% raw, 30% something else. Here are some of my meals … totally doable. 

(Make sure your hummus doesn't have ingredients you can't pronounce. I'll make my own this week and post the procedure.)

I've also been eating lots of baked sweet potatoes, things with garlic in it, dates, some more salads and then a salad. Salad. 

SURPRISE, you can eat BARS that aren't processed, like Larabars!

Before bed, I mix one scoop of that powder featured in THE CLEANSE picture, with water, and drink it up. It also tastes a lot like nothing... and a little bit of dust.

AND THAT'S THE END! Here's a cat. I read this whole thing to her and she said it was OK to post. 

If you have any questions, please feel free to email me at [email protected] and I will do my best to answer them!