Thyroid.

Thyroid supplementation, a’ la Broda Barnes, MD, in his book Hypothyroidism: The Unsuspected Illness, and many other authors, must be geared to the adrenal status of the patient: low adrenal, use little thyroid. I always use the cup of coffee rule of thumb. If a patient can drink a pot of coffee before bed and sleep easily, one can give higher doses of thyroid. If the patient sips a cup of coffee and is awake for two days, or is obviously very sensitive to any stimulation, one should start with 1/16^th of a grain of thyroid or less, and increase by 1/16^th grain every few days or week.

A grain of thyroid is an old apothecary measurement that is roughly equivalent to 60 mg. The patient who can stand stimulation can be started with ½ grain and increase to two grains after two to four weeks. Overdose of thyroid, due to insufficient adrenal cortical reserve, causes adrenalin symptoms such as anger, nervousness, fast heart rate and insomnia, and in cardiac patients: angina. But, it can also create more calmness, great energy, improved emotional tolerance and relief of fatigue and fibromyalgia by improving nutrient absorption and mitochondrial status. 

Mitochondria are the energy manufacturing plants of our cells. They make ATP, the body’s energy currency. Each of our 100 trillion or so cells has 1,000 to 4,000 mitochondria. Thyroid increases the size and number of mitochondria. I have used a brand that has less additives and more T₃ (the active thyroid in the human body) than other brands for 36 years. If a patient has high reverse T_{3 (}which blocks regular T₃₎ or other high autoimmune problems, I have to substitute with L-thyroxine (T₄) and/or T_3. I avoid Synthroid, it is not bioidentical and may block L-thyroxine. I also test everything on EAV (ElectroAcupuncture by Vol), which was developed in the late 1930’s in Germany to make sure the dosage and hormone are compatible with the patient. 

Guaifenesin.

Fibromyalgia can arguably be looked at as an energy deficiency syndrome in the musculoskeletal system. Both deficiency and toxicity issues are usually present. R. Paul St. Amand, MD, a UCLA endocrinologist, makes a good case for phosphate retention in the muscles and ligaments as the root cause of fibromyalgia. In his book, What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Fibromyalgia, he recommends increasing dosages of guaifenesin, the cough expectorant, which theoretically removes the phosphates. It has many successful patient responses but requires a diet avoiding salicylates, which involves more than 1,000 different foods and herbs, and inhibits patient compliance with his regimen. Committed patients have had moderate or good success with his program but progress is usually gradual and aggravating, especially early on in the therapy, requiring careful titration of the guaifenesin.

At the risk of forgetting one of the hundreds of things that can cause CFS and/or Fibromyalgia, here are a few of the more common causes that I see. One needs to have an extremely broad outlook on medicine. The causes can range from genetic defects, parasites, heavy metal intoxication, dental pathology, chronic sinus infection, chronic tonsil infection, circulatory damage/sticky blood, coagulation defects, multiple hormonal deficiencies, allergy, psychological issues, grief and loss, inherited weakness, leaky gut, parasites, digestive disturbances, Candida, toxic liver, chronic viruses, Lyme, musculoskeletal issues, autoimmune diseases, immune system weakness, endobiontic (fungi that normally occur in our blood) disturbance, other chronic diseases, chronic pain, surgical stress, acupuncture meridian dysbalances, scars, need for the proper homeopathic remedy (especially for miasms and inherited constitutional weakness),  overwhelming environmental stress in the home or work place, physical or sexual abuse, the standard American diet (SAD), nutritional depletion, amino acid deficiencies, organic acid dysbalance, old injuries impeding full recovery, neurotransmitter deficiencies either stress induced or drug induced, toxicity from pesticides, herbicides, volatile organic hydrocarbons, PCB’s and other industrial waste, plastics, solvents, fire retardants and many more.

Far infrared sauna and sweating therapy is one of the only ways to rid the body of the hundreds of chemical toxins we all carry, according to Sherry Rogers, MD in her excellent book Detoxify or Die. EAV devices such as BioMeridian, Vega, Asyra, LSA/Zyto with LED, Laser Energetic Detoxification, Autonomic Response Therapy/Kinesiology can help to unravel this very complex landscape. Regular laboratory testing is also important to diagnose or confirm diagnoses. Many great labs are deep into this process and are very important to the success in treating chronic fatigue and fibromyalgia.

References:

1. Barnes, Broda, M.D. Hypothyroidism: The Unsuspected Illness. Harper Collins Publisher, 1976.
2. St. Amand, R. Paul, M.D. What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Fibromyalgia. Warner Books, 1999.
3. Rogers, Sherry, M.D. Detoxify or Die. Prestige Publishing, 2002.

For More on this Topic:

Read Part I of the Series

Read Part II of the Series

Contrast (the difference between what you want and what you have) is necessary in order for you to get real clear about what you really do want. If there was no contrast, how would you know what you prefer?

Preferences are being born within you every moment as you walk through life. Identifying what you want to do, and who you want to interact with is easy. It’s determined by how you feel when you think about it. Does it feel good or bad? Your built-in emotional guidance system will tell you what you really want–then it’s up to you to consciously take action to make that happen. But, getting clear about what you want is the first step.

For many years, you may have been told that you can’t have what you want because you can’t afford it, or because you don’t have the smarts, the training or the necessary opportunities. They’ve said you might as well “settle for” what you have and stop making yourself miserable by wanting something different. Society, culture or family may have programmed you to believe that what you want is really out of reach.

But is it? Can you see yourself doing it? Can you feel how you would feel if you were living it? Thoughts are things, and beam out beyond our bony skulls to affect everything around us–especially thoughts accompanied by emotion. They attract to us the people, conditions and situations that can make our dream come true or prevent it from ever coming true. However, most of us engage in such chaotic thinking that we’re sending out opposite signals instead of focused intentions of what we really want. Our thoughts are mostly disorganized, flitting from one subject to another and therefore attracting more chaos and disorganization.

We think about 50,000 thoughts each day, but they’re almost always the same thoughts. As a result, we create the same day over and over. In the process, our lives go by, while we experience mostly boredom or mediocrity. If you don’t like what’s going on in your life right now, you can begin to change it by consciously focusing on what you do want–by pivoting your mind to a clear picture of what you want to experience, instead of thinking the same old thoughts, telling the same old stories or focusing on what you don’t like about your life.

That emotion you feel when you’re thinking unhappy thoughts is your emotional guidance system clicking in. That discord, that feeling of frustration or aggravation is telling you what’s coming! The emotions you feel in response to your thoughts are a quick clue to what you’re attracting, and therefore what will be showing up in your life, depending on how often you think those thoughts. Wow! A built-in guidance system you’ve had all your life, but didn’t know how to use? Well, better to know about this late than never!

Okay, so how do I change what I’m attracting? Change your thoughts. Decide on a goal so juicy and delicious that when you think of it, it’s strong enough to override the usual tapes that repeat in your head. Focus on it; smell it; feel it, hear it, see it. Use colors and shapes, spatial relationships, and feel how it would feel to experience it! Remember, desire is the engine, but emotion is the fuel. Use positive emotion to attract your dream even faster. Regularly pivot your mind to what you do want, focus on it as often as possible every day and leave the complaining and negative stories behind. Appreciate the positive qualities, situations and people in your life now. And take some physical action every day to make your dream come true. Some little (or big) action that will propel you further along on the track toward what you want.

If you’re really serious about reaching your goals, you’ll have to leave most distractions behind. Are you watching too much TV, associating with negative people, overeating or drinking too much? Those are all immediate gratification, or “habit” distractions. Leave the “bread and circuses” behind. Focus only on what you want, appreciate the positives in your life and take action every day.

The following story is a perfect example of someone who made a fabulous life out of a miserable start:

An out-of-work and broke actor once drove to the top of the hill that overlooks Hollywood. As he gazed over the movie lots, he reminisced about his hard life as a teenager, when he went to high school in the daytime and then worked as a janitor in a factory at night. Then there was the time his family was forced from their home and had to live out of a VW camper van. He refocused his attention into the present moment, and then did something really provocative: he wrote himself a check for ten million dollars! On it he wrote, “For services rendered as an actor” and forward-dated it five years. He then carried that check with him everywhere to remind himself of his goal, and then simply got on with doing what he loved most: acting!

Five years later, on the very date that he had written on his check, that young actor was earning well beyond ten million for each film that he starred in. And the name on that check? Jim Carrey.

Not everyone is into millions of dollars or lots of bling, but you can use the same tools he did to reach your goal. Just decide what you want, focus on the goal instead of the negatives, appreciate your talents and abilities, take some action toward your dream every day, and you can be, do and have what you want too!

References:

1.  Harrington, Paul. The Secret to Teen Power. Simon and Schuster. 2009.

2.  Hicks, Esther and Jerry. Ask and It Is Given: Learning to Manifest Your Desires. Hay House. 2005.

Ingredient watch

Written By Lissie Lyles |

A hot steaming mug of hot cocoa is a classic winter comfort. As this month’s Herbs and Spices article points out, there are some troubling conditions for many people who harvest the world’s chocolate. From a nutrition standpoint, sugary, stimulant beverages, such as hot cocoa are not meant to be a part of the daily diet. Once in a while, a high quality hot chocolate is still a luxurious treat many of us like to indulge in. Buying fair-trade, organic hot cocoa reduces the chances that the cacao beans we are consuming were treated with dangerous chemicals during cultivation, or were grown on farms that use exploited labor and trafficked children.

Most well known grocery store hot cocoa brands are not fair trade, or organic; many contain all sorts of strange additives and fillers. Here’s a list of some popular hot cocoa mixes, contrasted with an organic, fair trade option.

Swiss Miss Chocolate Flavor Hot Cocoa Mix:

Ingredients: sugar, modified whey, cocoa (processed with alkali), hydrogenated coconut oil, nonfat milk, calcium carbonate, less than 2% of: salt, dipotassium phosphate, mono- and diglyderides, artificial flavor, carrageenan. Contains milk.

Pros: I’m just going to type a little smiley face here: ☺ (Cute isn’t it?), instead of typing something snarky.

Cons: The first ingredient listed is sugar. This cocoa is not certified organic, and could contain cocoa powder sourced through child slavery. If that weren’t reason enough to make you want to put down the box, the hydrogenated oil, chemical additives and long ingredient list are further reasons to never consume this beverage.

Nestle Hot Cocoa mix (fat free):

Ingredients: dairy product solids, nonfat milk, cocoa processed with alkali (dds insignificant amount of fat), Calcium Carbonate, Cellulose Gum, Salt, Artificial Flavors, Sodium Aluminoilcate, Sucralose, Sodium Phosphate, Scesulfame Potassium (Non-nutritive Sweetener).

Pros: Nonexistent.

Cons: As delicious as “dairy product solids” sounds…DPS are modified dairy products obtained by the removal of protein and/or lactose and/or minerals from milk or whey. Removal is accomplished by physical separation techniques, such as precipitation or filtration. PH adjusting chemicals are then added to this powdered ash and protein. Sodium Aluminoilcate contains the dangerous heavy metal aluminum. Scesulfame Potassium is an artificial sweetener that research has shown negatively impacts insulin levels, and may even contribute to some forms of cancer. If all that’s not enough to make you want to put this box back on the shelf, this hot cocoa has the same problems mentioned above. There is an extremely high chance the cacao was sprayed with dangerous pesticides, by child slaves.

Ghirardelli Double Hot Cocoa:

Ingredients: Sugar, Cocoa, Unsweetened Chocolate, Soy lecithin (an emulsifier), Vanilla

Pros: Only five ingredients, four of which are pretty much actual food.

Cons: The sugar, cocoa and vanilla are not organic, or fair trade sourced. While Ghirardelli’s website makes lots of lofty claims about their high quality beans, there is no mention of the actual source of their beans.

Equal Exchange Hot cocoa mix:

Ingredients: Organic evaporated sugar cane juice*, Organic nonfat dry milk powder, Organic cocoa powder*, processed with alkali, organic guar gum, sea salt, organic carob bean gum, organic vanilla powder, Organic vanilla extract, organic maltodextrin, organic gum arabic. (*=fair trade ingredient).

Pros: Organic and fair trade sourced ingredients. Member of The Fair Trade Federations (FTF), which is one of the most reputable groups in the fair trade movement.

Cons: Non-fat dry milk powder makes it not suitable for vegans, or those who are lactose intolerant. Because of the long-ish ingredient list, the milk powder and emulsifiers, this should still be considered a processed food. Meaning, that it’s best consumed occasionally, not regularly.

Chocolate was once considered a luxury food, something we did not eat every day. Being mindful of the great distances that chocolate must travel, as well as the intense labor required to grow, harvest and process this treat, makes the extra dollars spent on fair trade organic chocolate well worth it. Cheap chocolate, at the expense of exploited child labor, is far too high a price to pay.

References:

1. Fallon, Sally. Nourishing Traditions. New Trends Publishing. Washington DC, 2001.

2. http://www.minimus.biz/Swiss-Miss-Hot-Cocoa-F20-1002301-7100.aspx

3. www.amazon.com

4. http://shop.equalexchange.com/ProductInfo.aspx?productid=10505

5. www.wikipedia.org/cocoa

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup (2sticks) softened organic unsalted butter

2 cups natural granulated sugar

5 large farm fresh eggs

4 squares of Bakers Chocolate (melt with ½ stick butter)

½ teaspoon Sea Salt

2.5 to 3 cups of Arthurs unbleached sifted flour

½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon of baking powder

½ teaspoon baking soda

1 cup organic sour cream or organic yogurt

¼ cup of poppy seeds

HOW TO PREPARE:

Mix flour, salt, baking powder, soda together and set aside.

Cream together softened butter and sugar. Blend into butter and sugar 5 large eggs one at a time.  Then alternate flour and sour cream to mixture.  Fold in1/4 cup poppy seed if so desired.  The poppy seed gives it a nice texture.  Pour batter into Bundt pan.

Bake in 300 degree oven for 1hour and 15 minutes or until toothpick comes out clean.  Cool at least 10 minutes in pan before removing to a cake plate.  Serve with ice cream, coffee tea or milk.  Enjoy.

Enjoy!

Dawn Gowery

Vital Life-Giving Ideas In A Time Of Profound Change

Written By Eric Francis |

February is the month that Neptune enters Pisces, where it will be until 2025. Outer planet transits have a way of coloring the whole world, and all of perception. Nobody alive has ever experienced Neptune in Pisces, though we got a little taste of it last year when it made its first tentative visit. The Neptune in Aquarius transit from the late 1990s until right now immersed us, over our heads, in the technological world. In 1998, you might have checked your email. Today, we live in “the cloud.” You might connect to the network on five different devices in the course of a day. Neptune in Pisces seems poised to bring a softer tone to the world; a more spiritual vibration that connects us without the electronics. It is the last of the major 2012 planetary transits to settle into place in time for the big event.

Aries (March 20-April 19)

What at first seems like routine news may turn out to be more meaningful. Therefore, I suggest you think in terms of the implications of what you learn, and the possibilities of what it might represent for you. You seem to be pushing for big changes, or they seem to be calling to you. Anything you learn, any information that comes your way, has the power to lead to new ideas, and thus may represent a turning point. You will have to listen; pay attention to the details. There are two distinct sides to any news that may seem strange or jarring, and I am not saying this as a truism. Look for the silver lining and keep thinking in that direction. It is not a side benefit; it is the whole point.

Taurus (April 19-May 20)

Remember your negotiation skills. I only remind you because negotiation is not in vogue these days–making demands is; typically, in the style of all or nothing. Given that nobody needs it all, but nothing is not suffice, keep in mind that the essence of negotiation is making sure everyone gets the basics covered. You can afford to think with a little more foresight than necessary. Devise a way of consciously prioritizing. And you will have to be the one who rises above any atmosphere (or perceived intention) of less than pleasant psychology. Part of being a professional is contributing to reducing tensions. The question is, “What if everyone acted this way?” Many people don’t realize it but they are waiting for someone else to set a good example–you’re that example.

Gemini (May 20-June 21)

You seem to be at the mercy of what a partner is experiencing–and you probably think you have little influence over the outcome. The more appropriate thing to wonder is whether you want any influence, and if so, what. The situation seems clearly designed as something you need to adapt to, which is another way of saying you’re dealing with a force larger than yourself. What you experience may seem like you’ve reached a turning point in a relationship, but in truth you’ve arrived at a point of no return in your own life–and the relationship is just a reflection of that. Remember the Serenity Prayer, and remember the most important part is the wisdom to know the difference–and I would add: then you must use that information well.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

Pay attention to what aspects of a relationship or partnership situation are working, and which are not. You don’t want to wait around to find out what happens when you’ve got all the information you need. Meanwhile, there are ways you can contribute toward a positive outcome. Much of what you’re dealing with are your “hidden tendencies” coming to the surface—tendencies, I would imagine, you would let go of, if you could. The time has come to evaluate everything you say and do on the basis of whether it adds or detracts from your quality of life and your quality of work. Many factors are compelling, you to rise to the occasion of your life, as it is today–not how it was yesterday, or how you wanted it to be 10 years ago.

Leo (July 22-Aug. 23)

You need to strike a balance in a relationship situation between idealism and cynicism. That would come in the form of “none of the above” or in a compromise between the two. Rather, a spirit of working from common ground, common values and a shared vision will help you make the most of your situation. Give this a week or two to work itself out, as your emotions are currently under the influence of projection. When Neptune leaves your opposite sign early this month, you will gain a more realistic perspective, and more breathing room. To sum up, you have made a long series of compromises; it’s now time to begin reversing them, though this will not happen overnight. It may take years, but it will help immensely if you know the specifics of what you’re working with.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sep. 22)

There should be a word for “fear of depth,” or perhaps paranoia connected to curiosity. Anyway, neither will be particularly helpful right now and either could become detrimental. Therefore, go deep, and encourage your curiosity. You’ve been on a project the past few years of gradually letting go of your inhibitions. Now is an excellent moment to take advantage of what you’ve learned, and go deeper to experience something new. Your sense of adventure may be mingled with questions about whether you’re exceeding your boundaries; or, some code of decency you’re being held to but nobody had the courtesy to inform you of. There are no actual rules and regulations, and to the extent if there were, Pluto–currently your best friend–has taken care of them. All you need are basic ethics and your “common” sense.

Libra (Sep. 22-Oct. 23)

How far will you go for love? Perhaps too far–however, the dream you’re following will soon lead you to a new feeling, emotional experience or depth of healing. This may feel like going down the rabbit hole, but unlike the one Alice discovered, the dimension you’re entering makes more sense and is better suited to your nature than the brainy abstraction (or odd psychological tension) of the past few days or weeks. The theme of your life shifts clearly and somewhat boldly in the direction of healing, though what you may have forgotten is the extent to which that involves imagination and creativity, rather than some kind of technique. Both you–and your relationships–need space that is reflective, sensual and creative, rather than adorned with too many ideas or chilly intellect.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 22)

You may notice an odd sensation in your life, as your ruling planet Mars slows down to a retrograde. This may feel like the soundtrack is out of alignment with the frames of the movie, or the air is getting thick. Take the cue and slow down. This is not the time to blaze forward, but rather, for a careful reassessment. Mars retrograde lasts between Jan. 23 and April 13–giving you a chance to look back on the past two years, and prepare for the astonishing events of mid-2012. Take this opportunity to work out any hang-ups, disagreements or conflict over the most important thing you can do with your mind–deciding what you want. Remember, you don’t have to make all your decisions at once. You have some time–use it consciously.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 22)

You’re about to have an opportunity to develop your financial resources; to either make money, get a gig, or tap into some existing resource. The key to financial success, for you, is grounding. You don’t necessarily like the “material” world, and you know there’s more to life than that–but when it comes to money or wealth in any form, your success will come from a practical, planned-out, and in some ways traditional approach. As the next few days develop, I suggest you take any conversations slowly and patiently, particularly with bosses or clients. Small successes can lead to much larger ones, though you must take things one step at a time, no matter how brilliant or innovative an idea or proposal might be. Make no assumptions, and keep a close eye on the timing of commitments.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 20)

Any secrets you may be keeping from yourself will soon come to light–and you may wonder what the hush was about. What you’re about to discover–either about yourself, or something deeply meaningful to you–has the power to shift your perception of life and thus the path of your life. Often seemingly little revelations are forgotten as fast as they emerge; it’s time to recognize the power of an idea. Ideas are like seeds and not everyone recognizes the value of these. In the present case, we’re talking about an idea equivalent to an heirloom seed. It will need to be cultivated, which takes time, patience and continuity. The initial excitement of possession must develop into something more mature–focusing on continuity and respect for the growth of living creatures.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19)

You are certainly getting a tour of the light, the dark, the beautiful and the beastly. While I could be philosophical and say it’s all part of the kaleidoscope of human experience, I am sure you would rather have life be simpler. I know you’re getting exhausted spending your days experiencing the kinds of extremes that have characterized the past few months. You are at the end of a long, challenging phase of existence–a phase that began in the late 1990’s. You will recognize this more clearly once it’s over—which by the way, happens in early February, around the time of your birthday. Being a long phase there will not be an abrupt transition; tune in quietly and you will feel the subtle motion, ephemeral though it may be.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

One thing I know from living through a lot of astrology is that when Venus enters your birth sign, that’s good. It’s a moment of appreciating the finer things in life, and having them within reach. In a sense they always are; we’re often too busy or distracted to notice. But this is a special moment, as Venus makes a conjunction to Neptune and then ingresses Pisces. Then, Neptune enters your birth sign. No matter how fast you may be going at the moment, or what challenges you face, this is a moment to slow down and make space for “who” and “what” you want most. Share your abundance with others you care about. Within the madness of life, so much of it unnecessary, take a long moment and feel how beautiful your existence can be.

Eric Francis Coppolino, founder and editor of Planet Waves, is a professional astrologer and journalist. A pioneer in the field of new planet discoveries, he has worked with clients and written about astrology for wide audiences since 1995. Read Eric Francis daily at PlanetWaves.net

Historically, circumcision is quite an ancient practice; ancient Egyptian mummies dating back to 6,000 BCE show evidence of circumcised men. Australian aborigines, Muslims, and some African tribes, have used circumcision to convey a covenant with God. Within the Jewish tradition, a religious rite called bris is practiced according to scripture (Genesis 17:9-27), which calls for a male infant to be circumcised on the eighth day after birth. Followers of Islam have a long-standing tradition as well, while circumcision is relatively uncommon in Europe today. About 57 percent of 417,282 male newborns are circumcised in the United States. An important side note worth mentioning is that a common theme runs through each of the aforementioned culture’s traditions: circumcision was/is thought to decrease masturbation, which, could very well lead to sexual pleasure.

What does the medical community have to say? In 1975, the American Academy of Pediatrics (APA) and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists issued a statement declaring that there is “no absolute medical indication” for routine circumcision. Additionally, in 1999 and 2005, the APA also said that data was insufficient to recommend neonatal male circumcision. So far, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have not issued formal guidance on the practice. However, in regards to HIV prevention, the CDC and World Health Organization are currently studying circumcision as a way to protect against HIV (especially in Africa where HIV prevalence rates are the highest). The research on its effectiveness in reducing HIV has found conflicting results thus far. Given the fact that the Bush administration, and Pope Benedict XVI, falsely claimed that condom use increased the spread of HIV and that abstinence is the only solution, we might have a difficult time convincing Africa to believe in anything we preach.

Other reasons why people may believe that circumcising infants is necessary are “cleanliness” and “so he’ll look like his dad”. A circumcised penis is not cleaner than an uncircumcised one, and parents can discuss cleanliness with their teen son once he is able to retract the foreskin. As for “looking like dad,” research does not show that little boys are traumatized if their penis doesn’t look like their dads.

After reviewing the information that I covered regarding this controversial topic, perhaps the choice for circumcision should be left up to a consenting adult who can make an informed decision. I wonder how many eighteen-year-olds would opt for this procedure?

References:

1. Baur, K., & Crooks, R. Our Sexuality. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth Cengage Learning. 2011.

2. (n.d.). In History of Circumcision. Retrieved January 5, 2012, from http://www.historyofcircumcision.net/

I know, I know. It is February, the month of love and Valentine’s Day. So, why am I writing about the right time to end a relationship?

This is the perfect time to clarify what you want in your relationship. Valentine’s Day can offer you an opportunity to pause and reflect more deeply on your life. Either affirm your intention to enjoy and celebrate your relationship, or get straight with yourself and your partner that your relationship is not working, and it is time to end it.

Maybe you simply aren’t sure one way or the other. So, how do you know which way to go? Love has us experience an intense physical attraction, changes in our brain chemistry, and a profound psychological state of longing for the other person. In our ancestral past, love served to ensure that we would mate, conceive, and stay together in a harsh environment long enough to care for our weak and dependent offspring. So are our relationships and experience of love today only dictated by this ancient chemistry?

Artists, psychologists, writers, philosophers, and the rest of humanity, have been trying to define love for as long as we have felt it. We know that we can have familial love, platonic love, religious love, and we can create love–love for our country, our career, our community, and others. Greeks managed to define “what is love” into four types: agape: unconditional love; eros: passionate love; philia: love and loyalty for your friends, family and community; and storge: natural affection for your family.

So what are we talking about when we talk about “falling in love”?

Most popular songs croon about it, half of our books and films obsess over it, and everybody wants it. Most of us have had the experience that on one hand, falling in love can lift us up; on the other, it can destroy us.

Psychologists describe this kind of falling in love as having three components: desire, passion, and intimacy.  In order to move from “falling in love” into a thriving, successful relationship I assert there are two more elements needed commitment and compatibility.  Commitment is deciding, dedicating, applying, devoting and promising to create a thriving successful relationship. Compatibility means having affinity, closeness, harmony, rapport, and empathy for the other person. The long term success of experiencing love in your relationship will be in direct proportion to being committed to, and compatible with, the person that you have fallen in love with.

This brings us back to the question, “When is it time to end a relationship?” First and foremost, your relationship should add to the quality of your life. If you are ambivalent about your relationship, it means your relationship is sick. How sick is it?

I highly recommend that couples ask themselves these questions:

1. Are you fighting most of the time? Do you feel continuously frustrated about your relationship? (This is not about whose fault it is–are you unhappy more than you are happy in this relationship?)
2. Do you have goals that are incompatible? If there is no resolution to your incompatible goals then it will be impossible for you to have a fulfilling relationship no matter how much you love them. Example: If you want children and your partner doesn’t, your relationship is headed for trouble.
3. Are you being abused mentally (your partner is constantly telling you that you are a failure, no good, belittling you, etc.); emotionally (is your partner routinely cold or angry, yelling, calling you names, not respecting you or your boundaries, etc.); or physically (does your partner threaten violence, strike you, throw things, etc.).  If you answer yes to any part of this question, I highly recommend that you end this relationship. Being in an abusive relationship will cost you your self-worth, and could possibly cost you your life.
4. Are you finding more reasons to spend time apart, and more pleasure being apart than together?
5. Are you changing your core values, beliefs and goals to accommodate your partner, or to please them? Are you living in hope that your relationship will stop being problematic?
6. Are you constantly changing your appearance to please your partner–hoping they will approve of you, or find you attractive?
7. Can you communicate without bickering, arguing or fighting? Is there respect and listening in your relationship?
8. Do you have fun and mutual dreams for the future with your partner?
9. Are you habitually chasing after your partner with no reciprocity? Do you have a growing feeling of emptiness about your life?

When you ask yourself these questions, you can see if your relationship is enhancing your life, or draining it. At the very least, you should be happier in your relationship than outside of it.

A sick relationship can be worked on and transformed. However, both partners need to be willing to commit to work on it and put in the effort. If one partner in the relationship does not admit or recognize the problem that the other partner has brought up, finding a solution will be nearly impossible. It is essential to any healthy relationship that each person in the relationship be able to see and understand their partner’s point of view or side of the argument. This willingness and ability will allow for greater affinity, love, and understanding in the relationship.

Often, when someone has strong feelings of love for their partner they think it is better to ignore the problems in the relationship. Usually the problems get worse. Eventually the problems will have to be dealt with, or the people in the relationship will be miserable. Don’t wait for the problems in your relationship to get severe enough to show you that the relationship is over–that is the hard way to do it. You can love someone and not have it be in your best interest to stay in the relationship. Is your relationship enhancing your life?

One last thought: Don’t let yourself be confused about whether or not you should leave your current relationship, with whether or not you might find a new relationship. If it’s clear that your current relationship should end, as painful as it might be, have the courage to end it–endings always offer up new beginnings.

“Relationships – of all kinds – are like sand held in your hand.
Held loosely, with an open hand, the sand remains where it is.
The minute you close your hand and squeeze tightly to hold on, the sand trickles through your fingers.
You may hold onto some of it, but most will be spilled.
A relationship is like that.
Held loosely, with respect and freedom for the other person, it is likely to remain intact.
But hold too tightly, too possessively, and the relationship slips away and is lost.”  Kilem Hasmate

References:

1. Richo, David. How to Be an Adult in Relationships: the Five Keys to Mindful Loving. Shambhala. 2002.

2. Kirshenbaum, Mira. Too Good to Leave, Too Bad to Stay. Plume. 1997.

“Simply Music,” an integrative and revolutionary Australian-developed piano and keyboard method that offers a breakthrough in music education, is now available in the Reno and Truckee communities.  This program has students of all ages playing a variety of musical styles, with a curriculum of contemporary, jazz, classical and accompaniment songs, learning 30-50 songs their first year.  Play great-sounding music from day one!  For more info and a FREE INTRODUCTORY SESSION, go to www.tahoepianolessons.com or call (530) 414-4464.

Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) is a way of learning to become aware of whatever is happening in this moment.  By developing this skill it is possible to begin to take charge of one’s own life by simply noticing what is happening in the mind and body while it is happening. equilibrium-mbsr offers an eight week program that will help integrate the qualities of mindfulness into your day-to-day life.  Allowing you to experience deeper feelings of connectedness and happiness.  Find out more about mindfulness or our free introductory class visit our website or give us a call today. equilibrium-mbsr  775-322-8181

www.equilibrium-mbsr.com

Attention: Massage Therapists, Spas, & Healing Centers

Touch, smell, and feel first. No more ordering on-line.

Mandala Massage Supply & Apothecary offers massage supplies and specializes in carrying natural bulk products for crafting massage oils, aromatherapy blends, soaps, lotions, and natural medicines. Mandala can help you customize your own blends to help make your practice complete, give your clients fresh, pure, healing products and aromatherapy scents.  Prices are lower or comparable to online without the shipping. Local business support is always a plus for the community. Free consultation with a professional aromatherapist and herbalist. Mandala Massage Supply & Apothecary 775-322-3252

The Nevada Women’s Expo celebrates its 10th anniversary on

March 31-April 1

at the Reno-Sparks Convention Center.  One of the many features for this year’s event will be the the EXPO-nential Woman Awards program, recognizing women who have made positive contributions in our communities.

Nominations are open through February 15, 2012, and anyone may submit a nomination. Nominees and their nominators will be recognized on the Expo website, at the Expo, be eligible for a $100 shop the show drawing and also will be eligible for show prizes.

Details for nominations available at:

http://www.facebook.com/NevadaWomensExpo (Expo-Nential tab) http://www.NevadaWomensExpo.com

Organic Farming Expert Eliot Coleman

Bestselling author, researcher and farmer Eliot Coleman presents two days of workshops for the Western Nevada College Specialty Crop Institute.  “Four Season Farming” meets Saturday, Feb. 11, 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m., at Reno High School Theater, Cost is $75 by January 27, and $85 afterward. Lunch is included.

Sunday, Feb. 12, at Rail City Garden Center, 1720 Brierley Way, Sparks. Session 1 is 10:30 a.m.-noon, and Session 2 is 1:30-3:00 p.m. Cost per session is $45 before January 27 and $50 afterwards.

Registration is required as enrollment is limited.   Ann Louhela -775-351-2551 or louhelaa@wnc.edu.

Nevada Humane Society Launches New G.I. Dogs Program

Transforming Abandoned Animals into Service Dogs and

Pets for Veterans

Thousands of Nevada’s military personnel are returning home confronted with reintegration into civilian life at a time when our country and especially our state is facing tough economic challenges. On top of that, many of these men and women also face the burden of physical and psychological disabilities.

It has been shown that pets help decrease signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression, even decreasing the amount of medication used to control such conditions as Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Science is confirming what animal lovers knew all along—people with pets live healthier, happier lives.

Nevada Humane Society’s G.I. DOGS program was the brainchild of Mitch Schneider, a veteran, experienced dog trainer, and former manager of Washoe County Regional Animal Services. It will provide both service dogs and companion pets for Nevada’s military veterans at no cost to the veteran. The most suitable animals will be selected for this program from the thousands of animals that are abandoned each year. Service dog requests will be made through appropriate veteran services organizations and these dogs will be trained to perform specific tasks that meet the needs of the individual veteran. Companion pets are completely free to all military veterans as well as the immediate families of active duty and fallen military personnel.

All pets are spayed or neutered, micro-chipped and vaccinated; veterans will also receive free pet food and a starter kit of supplies. Veterans requesting a companion dog will be assisted in the selection of their dogs through an experienced dog trainer.

Pets help people weather stressful experiences, including loss and loneliness. This program will take these benefits to a new level—transforming abandoned animals into service dogs and pets for the benefit of our veterans. It saves the lives of homeless pets and gives veterans a chance to lead happier, healthier lives.

For more information on the G.I. DOGS program, call at 775-856-2000.

Peripheral neuropathy, vertigo, anxiety, autism, chronic pain and fatigue …Call the chiropractor? Perhaps. A chiropractic neurologist? Even better. Randall Gates, D.C., D.A.C.N.B., of Power Health Rehab and Wellness in Reno, is just that. “It’s basically personal training for your brain,” he says. “Sometimes that will include chiropractic adjustments. I am a chiropractor by training, but just as within any profession there are post-graduate degrees to get advanced certification.”

With an undergrad in Biology from California State University, Chico, this Grass Valley native went on to pursue a Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) at the Life Chiropractic College West in the San Francisco Bay Area; Gates graduated in 2009 as valedictorian of his class. Amidst his chiropractic studies, Ted Carrick, a renowned chiropractic neurologist, visited the school and gave a presentation. “I was frankly blown away,” says Gates. He immediately began taking extra classes on the weekends in addition to his regular training. By mid 2010, Gates passed the exam to become a Diplomate of the American Chiropractic Neurology Board (D.A.C.N.B.) and has been living his dream at Power Health for the past two years.

“I absolutely love it,” says Gates. “I work very long hours, but it doesn’t bother me because I love what I do. Anytime you start getting patients better–who were told that they can’t get better–and see them get excited about getting over conditions that they didn’t think they could have any progress with…it’s incredibly rewarding.”

About 25 years ago, brain training past adolescence was hardly even considered. “The notion was that once your brain had developed, it was relatively unchangeable,” says Gates. “Your brain can actually change, grow new connections and become more powerful; not that you grow more brain cells, but they can get stronger.” This idea is commonly referred to as neuroplasticity. “We can excite the areas of the brain that have been damaged and see if we can get those areas working again.”

Power Health takes a lot of time to diagnose a possible healing regiment for new patients, time that a regular practitioner may not have. “Most of our patients remark that the initial exam is one of the most thorough exams they have ever received,” says Gates. “With any new patient we go through a 17-page history, general physical exams, I do a quite in-depth neurological exam–we try to figure out which part of their nervous system is not working properly. From there we typically do one to three trial treatments to figure out if we can make a change. Realistically, we can’t help everybody.”

When he’s not helping others, Gates does a lot of work on himself. “I love Olympic lifting and power lifting,” he says. No big deal. “I played football and track in high school, some track in college, lifting was just always a hobby. It’s quite a stress relief.” To relax he enjoys spending time with his wife and their dog, Bailey. Being close to the mountains he loves and going out to the Sierra Valley to take it all in. “I think it’s one of the most beautiful places on earth,” he says. “I really like the natural surroundings.”

In case you’re wondering, Gates goes to the chiropractor just like anyone else. “I get adjusted at least once a week,” he says. “We actually have four chiropractors at Power Health, so I get adjusted by one of the other three. They’re fantastic doctors.” So fantastic that with over 25 years of operations, Power Health is attracting patients from North Carolina, Arkansas, even Germany. Some patients have actually moved to Reno for prolonged treatments at Power Health.

Gates looks forward to an innovative career with Power Health, and sees its potential at an even larger scale. “I’d like us to become a center point for alternative-type treatments, and expand so that we can help more people,” he says. “We’re all given skills. If we can apply and hone our skill to their max abilities, to serve humankind, this world would be a better place.”

INGREDIENTS:

2/3 C. milk + 1 T. vinegar

1 2/3 C. sugar

2 eggs

1 ¼ C. pureed banana

¾ tsp. salt

2 tsp. vanilla

¾ C. butter, melted

2 C. unbleached white flour

¾ C. cocoa

1 ½ tsp. baking powder

1 tsp. baking soda

TO PREPARE:

1. Combine milk and vinegar; set aside

2. Cream together sugar, eggs, banana, salt, vanilla and melted butter in large bowl.

3. Sift together flour, cocoa, baking powder and baking soda in medium bowl

4. Alternately add vinegar milk and sifted dry ingredients to creamed mixture, about a third of each at a time.

5. Stir well to blend after each addition. Beat about 3 to 4 minutes.

6. Pour into two greased and floured heart-shaped cake pans, each equivalent to an 8” round pan.

7. Bake @ 350 F for 45 minutes.

8. Cool in pans for about 15 minutes before turning out on board or plate.

9. Cool completely before frosting one cake. Place other cake on top and finish frosting.

COBANA FROSTING for the SWEETHEART CAKE:

INGREDIENTS:

¼ C. butter, softened

½ C. cocoa

¼ C. pureed banana

3 T. milk or cream

1 ½ tsp. vanilla

4 C. sifted icing sugar

TO PREPARE:

1. Combine all ingredients together. Mix well.

2. Set aside, for later use on the SWEETHEART CAKE.

This issue of HB Magazine includes several articles that cover topics common to February. However, the angle or perspective is shifted. Instead of taking the standard route, our writers take a deeper look into the world of chocolate, love and other matters of the heart.

Some of the content might seem to pry at your belief system, begging questions you might not be ready to answer. Regardless of your point of view, I believe that many of you will find these topics to be engaging, and possibly, refreshing. You might even find yourself making a few “not-so-Valentine’s Day” decisions after all.

Cheers to a happy, healthy and lovely February!

Pause. Breathe. & Be Well,

Ffjorren Zolfahgar

Editor & Content Director

~Kates Kitchen

INGREDIENTS for SHELL:

1 14 oz. box Tenderflake frozen puff pastry (follow directions for thawing on box)

PUFF CRAB APPIE FILLING:

INGREDIENTS:

8 oz. cream cheese, softened

24 oz. real or imitation crab meat, minced

4 T. mayonnaise

4 T. parmesan cheese

½ C. cheddar, grated

½ C. grated mozzarella, grated

5 T. whole milk

2 T. green onion, finely chopped

1 T. Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp. paprika

Organic dried parsley (for topping)

TO PREPARE:

1. While frozen puff pastry is thawing (usually 2 hours at room temp.) mix together in large bowl all of the filling ingredients in order listed, blending well after each addition, except for the dried parsley.

2. Cut off small pieces of pastry dough and press into 24 2” butter tart, or equivalent, fluted molds.

3. Fill pastry with teaspoon, mounding slightly.

4. Sprinkle with finely crushed parsley.

5. Place on cookie sheet and bake at 375 F. for 15 minutes, or until filling puffs up a bit and pastry is golden brown.

6. Remove from oven, let stand for 5 or 10 minutes; remove from molds…see if you can eat JUST ONE! Enjoy!

The latest research into particle physics is proving that everything in our physical world, including the matter that makes up our bodies, is composed of infinitely small particles, vibrating at infinitely high frequencies. The specific frequencies that they vibrate at have everything to do with how our senses interpret that information, and how we (our bodies) interact with it.

Common medical therapies (prescriptions, treatments, etc.) usually lag 20-30 years behind the cutting edge research on the true nature of reality. This includes the theories about how our bodies function and create “health” or “dis-ease.”

What if I told you that technology exists right now that has taken the pursuit of health into alignment with the latest research in particle physics and electro-acupuncture. It does!

This is based on the original work by Reinhard Voll, M.D., a German physician who, in the 1950’s, was one of the first European doctors to realize that he could combine the ancient knowledge of acupuncture meridians with the latest in electronic testing equipment. This information was combined with facts learned from the growing science of lie detector equipment by Dr. Vaughn Cook, an Oriental Medical Doctor, to create this cutting edge technology.

It is not used to diagnose any disease. It is used to find incoherent (out of balance) responses to different digital challenges given to the body via the GSR (galvanic skin response). This is the electrical skin resistance in the palm and fingers of the hand.

Our conscious mind (the “thinking” part) is capable of processing about 2000 bits of information per second…pretty incredible, right. But, at this moment, your subconscious mind is handling about 400,000,000 (400 million!) bits of data per second. This technology enables the doctor to tap into the autonomic or subconscious mechanisms to ask your body what’s going on, and make sense of it all. Yes, it can actually ask your body which supplements or medications it prefers, and which have the best chance of helping it heal before you take anything!

Again, to be clear, this equipment does not diagnose any disease. But, when used by a trained medical practioner, it can be very helpful in finding which organs and/or glands are out of balance, and then determining what substances can be used to restore them to balance.

Recently, a hospital study in China was conducted that showed a correlation of 87 percent between the results of Zyto’s technology and organ/lab diagnosis by a licensed physician.

This exciting new technology is available for use today to better help people attain vibrant and radiant health more easily and efficiently than ever before.

References:

1. Klotter, Jule. Bioenergetic devices and Functional Medicine, Townsend Letter, January 1^st, 2009.

2. www.ZYTO.com

Is it true that as a culture we are suffering from a lack of true commitment in our intimate relationships? One could look at the divorce rate, estimated to be as high as 50 percent, or recent statistics that show more couples are choosing to live together than to marry. Could the reasoning for the latter be to facilitate an easier exit, generated by an apathetic attitude about whether the relationship works or not: a sort of easy-come-easy-go lethargy? Well, yes, that is one possibility of intent. It could very well be that these statistics reflect more superficial unions that are not given serious consideration and dedication. Maybe we are not the nation of nose-to-the-grindstone, focused, motivated, deeply committed people we once were, like during “the greatest generation.”

Then again, maybe it is not that black and white. Perhaps one significantly positive angle on this is that fear and judgment are just a bit less influential in our choices than they used to be. It is hard to imagine that the low divorce rate of 100 years ago was an absolute mirror reflection of multitudes of happy, healthy marriages. There is no question that social mores served as a harsh accuser, rendering the option of questioning or altering our commitments far less desirable–even damning.

Some would argue that our enhanced freedom to choose whether or not we remain in an intimate relationship has caused more harm than good, resulting in increased instability and social ills. Again, there is ample evidence to support this dismal viewpoint.

At the same time, if you look very closely, you may be able to recognize that the current relationship trends have the potential to embody compelling positive aspects. We may be moving toward being more “inner” than “outer” directed. That disposition, when combined with deep compassion for self and others, can result in even unimaginable positive outcomes, such as a “peace that passes understanding.”

For example, a marriage or partnership dissolution sometimes puts an end to generations-long, intractable patterns of discord, or even abuse that only served to weaken its participants. Other times, the perception of dedicated commitment is a façade, and one or both of the couple is not willing to be disingenuous any longer.

Commitment does fortify whatever is its focus. It is a fundamentally necessary ingredient for personal and collective accomplishment and stability. It has been said that “the unexamined life is not worth living.” It may be equally true that the unexamined commitment may be stagnant, inflexible, and not in our highest good. The natural arrhythmia of an optimally functioning human heart is believed to allow flexibility for the ebb and flow of changing physical conditions. So do humans function most efficiently when routinely re-evaluating the nature of what they are committed to and making adjustments as needed?

Healthy commitment begs the questions: Am I acquiescing to a “should” not of my own making, determined by others whose guidance and moral compass is only equal to my own? Am I constricting to make myself fit with the confines of this commitment? Or, am I authentically choosing, lifting my vision up like a giraffe to soak in the wide-angle view, and to choose who and what I will be committed to accordingly? It is about going into the unchartered territory of less programing and increased consciousness. Just maybe, we have untapped potential for making things infinitely better that was unavailable to discern until we learned to tune in to and trust our internal guidance. For most of us, this is an acquired skill that requires serious consideration to develop.

“Perhaps we are always looking for the secret, the gold-mine, the G-spot because we are afraid of the real G-word: Growth – and the energy it requires of us.” - Author Kelly Bryson

Like every other facet of life on our spectacular planet, our commitments are in a state of flux and require conscious re-evaluation and fine-tuning. Is your commitment worth the effort?

May your process, wherever it is taking you, bring you abundant love and light through the power of your authentic and heart-felt commitments.

References:

1. Weil, Andrew, MD. Spontaneous Happiness. Little, Brown and Company. 2011.

2. Bryson, Kelly, MFT. Don’t Be Nice, Be Real. Elite Books. 2010.

3. Burns, David D., MD. Intimate Connections. New American Library. 1985.

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is surprisingly common. The prevalence of occurrence is approximately 10 percent of the “adult” population. The diagnosis is often vague, but essentially RLS is:

1. Characterized by an irresistible urge to move the legs, particularly at night when lying or sitting down.

2. May be accompanied by symptoms of “skin crawling,” tingling, or a sense of pressure in their calf muscles.

3. Symptom relief when moving around

4. Waking up in the middle of the night with these symptoms again.

If symptoms occur more than twice a week, and result in severe disruption of sleep patterns and marked daytime symptoms, the case is severe and requires immediate investigation and intervention.

The causes of RLS are varied. Often, the “cause” is a combination of two or more of the following components:

1. Genetic, especially if appearing before the age of 30.

2. Secondary variations that are reversible (pregnancy, kidney failure, and anemia’s).

3. Associated conditions that exacerbate RLS and must be treated to resolve the condition (spinal cord compression, peripheral neuropathy, iron and B-12 anemia’s, kidney failure, iron deficiencies).

There are many lifestyle factors that make RLS worse. Central nervous system stimulants and depressants must be evaluated in a thorough history, and be reduced or eliminated for maximum recovery.

The mechanism of RLS is primarily dysfunction of a part of the brain called the basal ganglia. It controls neurological output from the brain and allows our central nervous system to be calm relative to body movements. When the basal ganglia is not functioning properly, excessive movement while at rest occurs in the body. A very well known and severe manifestation of poor basal ganglia function is Parkinson’s disease. RLS is a less severe manifestation of the same brain dysfunction.

The medical approach is to treat with dopamine medications, to calm down the basal ganglia and benzodiazapines to keep the patient asleep. The approach is typically successful, but the side effects of long term use of these medications can often create psychiatric side effects, and can damage internal organs.

There are other approaches. Functional medicine treats the body as a whole and evaluates all components–musculoskeletal, neurological (i.e. basal ganglia), and metabolic (i.e. anemia’s, iron deficiencies, diabetes, etc)–that contribute to destabilizing the basal ganglia itself, and thus allowing the excess movements to occur. Neurologically, other parts of the brain (cerebellum and frontal lobes) “fire” on the basal ganglia and cause it to work properly. If they are not functioning correctly, they need to be, and can be, “strengthened” through specific brain exercises. As they strengthen and function better, the basal ganglia calms down and can recover; so does the RLS.

The brain needs proper nutrients to function well. Those patients are evaluated metabolically for indicated nutritional and dietary changes, or herbal/botanical support that will allow the frontal and cerebella lobes to function better, and do their job in correcting the basal ganglia and subsequently the RLS. The advantage of the functional model: no medications, no long term side effects, and an individualized operating manual for that patient to follow, to control the condition permanently.

It is a very effective approach for those individuals interested in non-drug, cause-based alternatives if the medications don’t work or if side effects, present and future, are an issue.

References:

1. Watts RL, Koller WC. Movement Disorders Neurological Principles and Practice. 2nd ed. McGraw-Hiull Companies, Inc. 2004.

2. Fernandez HH et al. A Practical Approach to Movement Disorders Diagnosis and Surgical and Medical Management. Demos Medical Publishing. 2007.