A man dreamed, “I see a soft bluish light emitted from wounds and sores on someone’s body. I’m to understand that there is a luminescent component to all wounds and to the organs of the inner body. Fascinated, I show this to my children.”

One of the things that make this dream so interesting is that it challenges us to see wounds and illnesses in a way that we usually don’t. Wounds cause suffering, and we generally want to be rid of them as quickly as we can. But, as light is a symbol of consciousness, this dream implies that our wounds can be a portal to consciousness and the wisdom of our inner self. To examine the light emitted from the wounded body, as did the dreamer with his children, is to discover some of the meaning behind suffering.

Paradoxically, suffering can make us more aware of the force of healing active within the psyche, the body and outer life. For example, a cut on your skin triggers your body’s natural healing process (e.g., clotting of blood, scab formation and skin regeneration). A burned forest is re-populated with plants that will protect and re-stabilize the soil, minimizing erosion and providing food
for animals. Emotional and psychological injuries call forth healing dreams, support from friends (or strangers) or the care and assistance of a therapist. It is likely that you have been an instrument of healing to the people and world around you on many occasions. Was this done only out of a sense of obligation or from a more instinctual urge of compassion and love? If we care to see it, we will find that this transcendent force of healing and redemption seems hardwired into the very fabric of the universe and our psyches. Our wounds and illnesses can help us develop a personal awareness of the forgiving, redeeming and regenerative background of life.

Despite this innate urge toward wholeness, healing does not always take place. Sometimes, for a variety of reasons, we will suppress the natural movement of this healing energy and wisdom. At other times we may earnestly assist in the healing process, but the healing we hope for does not occur. Perhaps not all wounds or illnesses are meant to be cured. For example, a terminal illness or injury may be the specific vehicle of our birth into the next “world.”

Various religions have different explanations for persistent wounds and illnesses. For example, they may be interpreted as bad karma, or a retribution/punishment for past sins. Others explain them as a disharmony in our body which reflects disharmony in our relationship with God. In light of these perspectives it can be helpful to also realize that our wounds and illnesses are never just our own. From a deep psychological standpoint, our wounds and illnesses are borne on behalf of humanity as well. In this regard, modern physics found that consciousness and the psyche are non-local phenomena. That is, they are not tied to a specific body, but experience effects, and have effects upon other entities, across the universe. We are one mind and part of a shared mind at the same time. We are one body and the “cell” of a much larger body simultaneously. To illustrate, it is not uncommon for one member of a family, often a child, to develop behaviors or illnesses that reflect unconscious tensions residing within the family as a whole. Within larger society, one segment of the population may act out some of the anger or aggressive tendencies repressed by its other, more law-abiding, members.

Thus, the way that we work with our own wounds and illnesses affects all of humanity. When we carry our wounds and illnesses with creativity and humor, when we try to learn from our symptoms for the sake of growth and consciousness, we give an invaluable, although often uncelebrated, gift to the world. We transform our own suffering, and clear a path that may be helpful to others.

Another positive aspect of our wounds and illnesses is that they reconnect us to our humanity. The word human, like the words humility and humble is derived from the Latin word humus, meaning earth. To be human is to be of the earth. We are mortal; not gods or God. We are vulnerable, incomplete, immensely fallible and in need of redemption and healing. Through our wounds and the awareness of our inherent incompleteness we are, paradoxically, made more whole and free. When we labor under the illusion that we are God, or should be God, rather than human beings, it becomes an insidious, oppressive burden. Although it can be hard to accept, we need our wounds and illnesses, our compulsions, phobias and neuroses, our nagging ailments, our scars, our unreliable cars, leaking roofs, annoying neighbors, defiled nature, dying loved ones and all of the things that we would like to control but cannot.

Sometimes it is only through suffering, and the recognition of our limitations and finite power, that we are most fully opened to the pain of others and the depth of our own capacity for love and forgiveness.
To be human means that we suffer for others and others suffer for us. There is really no way around this; it is the nature of life in this universe. However, we will sometimes try to get around this reality by refusing to ask for help, even when we really need it. Sometimes there is an element of pride, or egocentricity involved here. Do yourself a favor; ask for help. When we admit our dependence on our fellow (wo)man by asking for help, we give others permission to acknowledge their own limitations and dependence, thereby strengthening the feelings and fabric of the human community. In truth, it frequently takes more humility and courage to ask for help than to refuse it.

References:

1. Levy, Paul. The Wounded Healer, Part 1, 2007; www.awakeninthedream.com/artis/woundedhealer1.html
2. Levy, Paul. The Wounded Healer, Part 2, 2007; www.awakeninthedream.com/wordpress/?p=157&print=1
3. Mindell, Arnold. The Dreambody in Relationships. Routledge & Kegan Paul, Inc.: NY 1987.

For more info, contact Dr. Andy Drymalski, Reno and Carson City psychologist at (775) 786-3818.

Yosemite’s Half Dome is not only the signature landmark of the park, it appears on the 2005 US Quarter representing California to the world.

It is one of the most popular day hikes in the country and is both a goal and a journey for fit visitors. The 12-hour marathon hike is completed by over 50,000 people a year. The peak stands 8,842 feet above sea level and was first climbed in 1875 by use of a knotted rope erected by Scottish immigrant George Anderson. The famous steel cable “handrail” was put up in 1919. Today well over 50,000 people manage the 16-mile round trip to the top each summer. It is hard due to the 4800 ft vertical rise and the final 425 feet ascent at 45-degrees on the rock itself.

We seem to love it to death. The severe overcrowding on busy weekend days and the bottleneck that can result when people try to get down if the weather rapidly turns bad quickly. In January, the Superintendent issued an interim directive to begin a permit process for the hike up the cables on Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays in 2010 and 2011. The permits were gone within nine minutes of their availability last spring. The permit system worked well this summer as only 400 were allowed to go up, drastically reducing the wait time. Previously, wait lines up to an hour long were not uncommon. As might be expected, weekdays are now taking the load.

The park’s planning group is chartered with developing a permanent solution called the Half Dome Trail Stewardship Program to take effect in 2012. The goals are to institute appropriate management that will protect and enhance the natural and cultural environment of the area around Half Dome and establish appropriate conditions along the trail leading up to the Half Dome cables. Half Dome is officially in the wilderness and is protected by the Wilderness Act of 1964. The law states that wilderness areas are to provide for solitude or a primitive and unconfined type of recreation. Clearly Half Dome no longer allows a natural environment.

Besides needing a permit (enforced by rangers at the base) there is only one “rule” about getting to the top of Half Dome: the National Park Service prohibits camping overnight on the top (that ended in 1992). No one is in charge; no rangers and no posted etiquette rules. Generally, people go up on the right side and down on the left. Some go up outside the cables to avoid the crowds and utilize the better granite footing. Remember that the cable route has been there for over 90 years and is worn smooth. Tennis shoes are not advised.

It’s obvious that many hikers have Half Dome on their Bucket List. It’s our Mt. Everest. Only four hours from Reno, the hike is done by many seeking to realize a goal. It’s not an easy goal. The hike is classed as “extremely strenuous.”

Anyone can do this hike with education, preparation and motivation. Learn about water treatment, proper footwear, use of trekking poles and other gear. Train on hills and you should be able to reach this goal. Do it because YOU want to do it and don’t be pressured if it is beyond your capability. Download Mr. Half Dome’s presentation: Hike Half Dome: Anyone Can* from Mindbites at http://mindbites.com/ What’s on YOUR bucket list?

About the author: Rick Deutsch lives in San Jose, and is an author, speaker and outdoor adventurer. He has hiked Half Dome 27 times and has written “One Best Hike: Yosemite’s Half Dome.” See www.HikeHalfDome.com

For more info, visit Rick Deutsch online at www.HikeHalfDome.com.

ASTROLOGICAL ALCHEMYsm
The Astrology of Self-Transformation®

The Sun enters Virgo this month on August 22. This is the last month of the summer season. The heat is stimulating. It enlivens and animates the spirit. This should manifest as motivation to improve our lives.

Virgo is The Virgin, which symbolizes purity. Out of all the signs of the zodiac, Virgo is the one that rules health and healing. Now is the time to focus on improving your health. Virgos tend to be more concerned with cleanliness, orderliness and health. When this is taken to a negative extreme, the result is the hypochondriac. The key is balance.

Virgo specifically rules the processes of cleansing and purification. The human body has built in systems to release toxins and pollutants. Systems work better when they are not fouled by the death principle. The life principle is in a constant battle with the death principle, or as physics describes it, the law of entropy.

The intestines are the primary organ for the elimination of toxins from the body. Now is a perfect time to have a focused regimen of cleansing the body. Fasting, diet, liver cleanse, sauna, hot mineral springs, colonics, massage, etc., bring very significant results at this time.

The planetary ruler of Virgo is Mercury, the planet of mind. At a more spiritual level, the need is to cleanse and purify our thinking. This addresses the fundamental issue of human nature. The word “man” is derived from the Sanskrit word manas, which means “to think.” The essence of humanity is that we are thinking beings. As we think, so we are. This forms the basis of our being. The keyword for Mercury is to think.

Esoterically, there is a direct connection between the brain and the intestines. The health of our excretory system has a subtle but profound effect on the development of higher states of consciousness.

If our thinking is not aligned with divine thinking, then our life is out of harmony with nature. This disharmony will result in disease and ill health. When we observe the state of health of the American populace and the trillions of dollars spent each year on health care, we must conclude that something is seriously wrong.

The true source of health is based in purity of thought. This is the primary principle of Virgo. Cleansing and purifying our minds of untruth and ignorance is the true goal. The quest for truth and living it in every thought, feeling, and action should be a priority. Placing value on honesty and truthfulness in our lives and demanding it of others is a prerequisite for the achievement of true health. It is very important to live one’s life where personal integrity is of the utmost importance.

The archetype of Virgo is that of the teacher/healer. We teach each other most profoundly through example. Knowing and living truth is a powerful support for health. It is time to consciously align our lives with the rhythms and cycles of nature. Get back to a true understanding of the cosmic essence of life as presented to us by the stars.

THE ABOVE IS NOT MEANT TO BE TAKEN AS MEDICAL ADVICE. YOU SHOULD ALWAYS CONSULT YOUR HEALTH CARE PROFESSIONAL.

2010 All Rights Reserved, Robert Ayres

Robert Ayres is an internationally known astrologer with over 40 years of experience. He can be reached for personal consultations at (530) 550-1118 or at his website at astrologicalalchemy.com

Dear Jen,

Dear Wondering,
The exclusivity conversation is very important. I always recommend people actually have this conversation instead of just assuming their partner is exclusive, so you are definitely on the right track. The timing of the conversation is important. You don’t want to have it too early in the relationship or wait too long. I think four months is plenty long enough. Choose a time when the two of you are alone, having fun and are relaxed. Make sure you are going to have enough time for a good conversation so you both can express how you feel. Keep in mind that it’s normal to develop feelings after four months and you have a right to know where you stand, so go into the conversation feeling confident in your decision. Start your conversation by explaining that you have developed feelings and would like to be in an exclusive relationship. Tell him that you want to make sure you are both on the same page. Stop and Listen carefully. His initial response will tell you what to say and do next. Good luck. I hope you find out that he feels the same way you do.
—Jen

If you would like Jenifer’s advice, email your question to Dating@HBmag.com

Jenifer Rose, Owner of It’s Just Lunch (registered trademark) Personalized Dating Service is also the Creator and Producer of The Plush Life on Channel 2, Sundays @ 5:30 pm. Listen to Jenifer on The Buzz 1270 am on Sundays at 11:00 am. Her live radio show “Skirted Issues” covers dating, relationship, intimacy and romance topics.

A Holistic Approach to Herbs for Healthy Teeth and Gums

A great many herbs and natural substances promote tooth and gum health by tightening the gum tissue, promoting circulation, and removing plaque and debris from the mouth. To name just a few, these include resins such as myrrh and the anti-viral bee product, propolys, which stimulates the production of new mouth tissues, usnea, a lichen stronger than penicillin against strep and staph bacteria, bloodroot, and plantain, a common weed which eases mouth abscesses and inflammation. High-tannin-content herbs such as krameria and oak apples also enhance tooth and gum health. Hawthorn extract, used over time, tightens the gum tissue. Echinacea extract, an antimicrobial immune strengthener, fights bacteria in the mouth. Extract of aloe vera also soothes and benefits the mouth tissues. Licorice root is anti-inflammatory and antibiotic, inhibits plaque growth, and tastes pleasant, so it is often added to toothpastes and mouthwashes. The essential oils of many healing plants are naturally antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal, and increase blood flow to the gums. Dental-health-enhancing essential oils include tea tree, peppermint, spearmint, eucalyptus, orange, clove, cinnamon, ginger, sage, rosemary, thyme, anise and fennel, to name a few.

Many traditional cultures make natural, disposable toothbrushes and gum stimulators from the twigs or roots of healing plants. Bay, fir, juniper, eucalyptus, oak, willow, and neem-tree twigs have served this purpose, as well as the roots of marshmallow, horseradish, alfalfa, and licorice. Health-food stores often sell a rough equivalent, wooden toothpicks soaked in healing essential oils. You can even make your own by placing undyed wooden toothpicks in a glass jar and covering them with a dental-health-enhancing essential oil. Let them soak in the oil overnight, then allow them to air-dry.

To prepare a simple homemade toothpaste, mix a small amount of baking soda with just enough hydrogen peroxide to form a paste. Apply this paste to the gum line, both inside and out, then place the rubber point of the gum stimulator between the teeth, and rotate in a circular motion for several seconds. Repeat this routine twice a day. Many tooth and gum problems occur when the pH inside of the mouth is too acidic, and baking soda alkalinizes the mouth. You can also add small amounts of zinc sulfate, folic acid (you can grind these to a powder in a coffee grinder or using a mortar and pestle), liquid vitamin E, one to two drops of peppermint or tea-tree essential oil, or hawthorn, echinacea, or aloe vera extracts. Experiment to find the particular mixture that best suits you. Other effective tooth powder ingredients are alum, salt, blackened eggplant, myrrh gum, turmeric, and white-oak or prickly ash bark. In some cases of severe gum disease, wrapping tooth powders in gauze and placing them in the corners of the mouth nightly has healed the condition in just a few months.

Herbal teas or extracts can replace water in your oral irrigator or serve as mouthwashes, for added benefits. Even the commercial mouthwash, Listerine contains anti-bacterial thymol, which is derived from the thyme herb. Since thymol reduces gingivitis, Listerine also works well in the oral irrigator. You can also prepare homemade mouthwashes by steeping dried herbs in vodka or apple cider vinegar. Good mouthwash herbs include cloves, coriander, dill, sage, peppermint, spearmint, eucalyptus, cinnamon, rosemary, fennel, sage, basil, cardamom, parsley, ginger, blackberry leaf, calendula or chamomile flowers, echinacea or marshmallow root, mint, raspberry leaf, basil, sage, thyme, and yarrow, to name a few.

As this overview shows, you can easily enhance your tooth and gum health naturally by combining herbs with proper diet and nutrition. For further information, including specific recipes, consult the sources listed below.

References:

1. “Herbal Care of Teeth and Gums,” by Karta Purkh Singh Khalsa, in The Herb Quarterly, Issue 79, Summer 1998.
2. “A Natural Remedy for Gingivitis, Toothaches, and Mouth Sores,” by Rudy Silva, on ezinearticles.com.
3. “Herbs for Dental Health” by Christopher Hobbs L.Ac., A.H.G., on www.healthy.net.
4. “Periodontal Disease” by Janet Zand L.Ac., O.M.D. on www.healthy.net.
5. “Herbal Therapy in Dentistry,” by Flora Parsa Stay D.D.S., from The Complete Book of Dental Remedies.
6. Beauty By Nature, by Brigitte Mars.
7. Living on the Earth, by Alicia Bay Laurel.

Debbie Hart is a writer, teacher, and student of nutrition and alternative healing. She co-runs the online University of Yourself for the study of dreams and the I Ching, with Dr. Ron Masa, www.universityofyourself.com/contact.html.

Zea Maize, the giant tropical grass more commonly known as corn, is currently the dominant species found in our western industrialized food system.

Domesticated by the indigenous peoples of Mesoamerica, corn was first cultivated by the Aztec and Mayan peoples. Between 1250 A.D and 1700 A.D, the crop spread over the North American Continent. A valuable trade asset, corn kernels were carried back to Europe in the late 16th century. Today, corn is grown on every continent in the world, with the exception of Antarctica.

Americans grow about 332 million metric tons of corn annually, 80 percent of which is genetically modified to exhibit agronomical desirable traits, notably resistance to herbicides and insect pests. Corn is the top crop for agriculture subsidy payments. About 60 percent of the corn grown in the U.S. is fed to livestock.

Of the 45,000 items in the average American supermarket, almost one third of them contain some form of corn. Michael Pollan observed the prevalence of corn within our food system, in his book, “The Omnivore’s Dilemma” and he reports that, “the great edifice of variety and choice that is an American supermarket rests on a remarkably narrow biological foundation: corn. It’s not merely the feed that the steers and the chickens and the pigs and the turkeys ate; it’s not just the source of the flour and the oil and the leavenings, the glycerides and coloring in the processed foods; it’s not just sweetening the soft drinks or lending a shine to the magazine cover over by the checkout. The supermarket itself–the wallboard and joint compound, the linoleum and fiberglass and adhesives out of which the building itself has been built–is in no small measure a manifestation of corn.”

What are the consequences of allowing one crop to dominate our nation’s farm lands and food supply? What is the over-consumption of this grain doing to our bodies, to our planet? How did we come to be so dependent on one plant?

In many ways the jump in corn production can be traced to the post World War II era. In 1947, a munitions plant in Muscle Shoals, Alabama found themselves with a surplus of ammonium nitrate, a principle ingredient in the making of explosives. This chemical also happened to be a source of nitrogen for plants, and so the surplus was used as a chemical fertilizer. Corn, a crop that is highly dependent on nitrogen rich soil, saw its yield explode.

High fructose corn syrup was developed as a cheap alternative to sugar. Today this highly processed sweetener can be found in most soft drinks, juices and processed foods. The rise in consumption of high fructose corn syrup, parallels the rise in Type II diabetes, which has sky rocketed in the last 20 years. In the book, “There is a Cure for Diabetes”, Gabriel Cousens MD points out that, “Corn Syrup has been singled out by many health experts as one of the chief culprits of rising obesity, because corn syrup does not turn off the appetite. Since the advent of corn syrup, consumption of all sweeteners has soared, as have people’s weight.”

In the past we have seen that over-dependence on corn has had a negative effect on public health in the US. In the late 19th century, over-consumption of corn, led to an epidemic of pellagra, characterized by a deficiency of niacin and key amino acids. Today, children in many low income neighborhoods are being diagnosed with rickets, a severe vitamin D deficiency. Many of these children also happen to be obese. The resurgence of a disease, we thought we had overcome in the past, can in part be attributed to the fact that it is less expensive for low income families to consume sodas and juices containing high fructose corn syrup, than it is for them to drink milk.

The use of corn as animal feed is also linked to negative effects on our health. For instance, cows have traditionally grazed on grass and are not able to digest the corn they are fed. This increases the amount of methane gas that they produce. On a global level, more greenhouse gasses come from feedlots than from automobile exhaust. Cows fed on corn also need to be fed more antibiotics and supplemental proteins in order to keep them alive. Their meat is higher in saturated fat, nearly twice as much as the meat from a grass-fed steer.

Ecologically speaking, the practice of mono-cropping is having a devastating effect on the soil and water. Each year, the nitrogen used to fertilize corn, leaches from Midwest croplands into the Mississippi River and out into the Gulf of Mexico. This fertilizer is killing everything from algae to sea life, creating what is known as “the dead zone,” which extends through Alabama and Texas, a total area that is roughly the size of the state of New Jersey, and it continues to grow.

There are several things you can do to be an ethical corn consumer. If you are going to eat corn, eat organic corn, as close to its natural form as possible. For example, corn meal is OK, pop corn is OK; corn oil, corn syrup, not so much. Speaking of which, avoid all food products that contain high fructose corn syrup, or other corn derived food additives.

If you eat meat, choose grass fed, it tastes better, is better for you and better for the planet. Avoid pet food products that contain corn, as cats and dogs do not have an easy time digesting corn either. It can cause bladder infections and kidney troubles in your furry friends. If possible, buy corn from local farmers. Better yet, grow some in your own back yard. Choose heirloom varieties, such as blue corn, increasing bio-diversity. We have the power to create change both with our dollars and dinner forks.

References:

1. Pollan, Michael, The Omnivore’s Dilema, Penguin Press, New York, 2006
2. Cousens, Gabriel, MD, There is a Cure of Diabetes, North Atlantic Books, California, 2008
3. www.wikipedia.org
4. Pollan, Michael, “What’s Eating America,” www.smithsonianmag.com/archives, June 15, 2006

The distinctive flavor of cardamom, reminiscent of its cousin ginger with the slightest hint of pine, is a surprisingly versatile ingredient used in cuisine around the world. In its native India, it is instrumental in creating delicious curry and masala chai. Individual seeds are sometimes chewed to freshen the breath. Cardamom flavors both sweet and savory dishes throughout the Middle East and central Africa, and is even added to coffee. It is widely used in baking in Scandinavian pastries and sweet breads. It can be found in rice and bean dishes in Guatemala too.

Cardamom enhances squash, sweet potatoes, lentils, beans, basmati rice, pickling brines and pastries. It combines well with cumin and coriander.

Cardamom seeds are extracted from larger pods, which can be white, green or black. Green is the most common form, used either whole or ground. The seeds contain an essential oil that is rich in terpenes, terpineol and cineol, making cardamom a stimulant. Even so, when used in Ayurvedic medicine, cardamom is said to be calming to all doshas. Apart from refreshing the breath, chewing green cardamom seeds relieves indigestion, flatulence and treats infections of the teeth and gums. Using a few drops of pure cardamom oil can be even more effective, but it can be difficult to come by.

The delicate and spicy aroma of cardamom is wonderful in sachets and potpourris to freshen linens and dresser drawers. It can be added to sea salts for an invigorating bath experience as well. See below for some other delicious recipe ideas that include cardamom:

Mango Lassi: (Serves 2)

• 4 cups frozen or fresh mango chunks
  1 can coconut milk
  2 tsp fresh ground cardamom pods

Combine in blender until smooth, chill until ready to serve, garnish with fresh slice of mango.

Fruit Salad Dressing:

• 1/2 cup vanilla yoghurt
  1 TB honey
  1/8 tsp ground cardamom
  2 TB shredded coconut

Combine ingredients in a small mixing bowl and serve over fresh berries or mangoes.

References:

1. Kowalchik, Claire, and William H. Hylton, Rodale’s Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs, Rodale Press, Pennsylvania, 1987
2. Morningstar, Amadea with Urmila Desai, The Ayurvedic Cookbook, Lotus Press, Wisconsin, 1990
3. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cardamom

Raw honey that is unheated, unprocessed and unfiltered is very effective and has many health benefits. Here are a few:

1. Beat bloat with honey. This sticky sweet contains lactobacillus and bifidobacterium, probiotics that enhance digestion and reduces GI bacteria.
2. Raw honey helps to get rid of bacteria that causes diarrhea.
3. Post nasal drip and runny Nose: Take up to a tablespoon of raw honey before breakfast. Then, drink a glass of water. Throughout the day try to drink at least 8 glasses of water. Instant results may not be noticeable, however that doesn’t mean it is not working; be diligent and give this natural remedy a chance to work.

References:

1. http://www.ehow.

It is sometimes difficult to maintain your focus on what you want to accomplish when everyone around you is talking about how bad things are. The only way to do this is to develop the habit of controlling your own thoughts. This is easier to do than you might think. However, most people are in the habit of doing what everyone else does. So the attitudes and opinions of family, friends, colleagues, and certainly the media, intrude on our thoughts until we begin to parrot what everyone else is thinking and saying.
We think those are our opinions, but mostly they are opinions that we have heard so frequently that we have become convinced they are true. We parrot them to others, which perpetuates the cycle of bad news. It takes conscious awareness of what is happening, in order to get out of that cycle and take your power back. That conscious awareness includes certain mental techniques that are easy to adopt.

We now know that everything is energy and that it manifests as different vibrational frequencies. For a hundred years, our greatest physicists have been trying to figure out how these different frequencies create and affect matter. In fact, every organ in your body has a different vibrational frequency, every bit of cartilage and every bone. There is now a medical device (invented in Germany) which has the healthy frequencies of every part of the human body programmed into it. When an organ becomes dysfunctional, that organ emits different frequencies than when it is healthy. The purpose of this device is to beam healthy frequencies for individual organs, bones, etc., toward that dysfunctional part of the body, thereby entraining the frequencies back to a state of natural health for that organ. Therefore the body heals itself. The device is called Ondamed (pronounced on-da-med) and the website is www.ondamed.com. It is used extensively in sports medicine, as professional athletes need to heal as fast as possible. That is just one example of how we are beginning to use our knowledge of the energy that surrounds us: to heal ourselves.

Actually every thought also has a vibrational frequency. We have free will to think the thoughts we want to think, the thoughts that make us feel good. So why not use that free will, instead of thinking what others think, doing what others do and being a slave to their opinions, attitudes and ideas?

Three things happen when we think a thought. The first thing is, the vibrational frequency of that thought, like a radio signal, goes out into this energy soup we live in (which physicists call the Field of All Probabilities) and attracts back to us the people, conditions and situations which match the thought. That same thought also causes the emotions to match. Our emotions drive our words and actions, and our words and actions go to make up our life. Well, that is scary. If we are thinking negatively, we will automatically attract negative people, conditions and situations.

The second thing that happens when we think a thought is the vibrational frequency of that thought goes from our conscious mind into our subconscious mind. The subconscious cannot tell the difference between real and pretend, so it assumes that thought we’re thinking has actually happened to us today, which gives us the emotions to match. Our emotions drive our words and actions, and our words and actions go to make up our life. Well that’s scary too because if you remember negative situations, you create the same emotions you felt during those times and attract more negatives. If you remember positive situations, you recreate happy emotions and attract positives.

The third thing that happens when you think a thought is the vibrational frequency of that thought floods all 100 trillion of your cells, and causes that pharmaceutical company in your body to create chemicals and hormones that match the thought. So if you are thinking positive thoughts, your body is manufacturing endorphins, the pain killing hormone as well as serotonin, the feel-good hormone. But if your thoughts are worried or negative, you are creating cortisol, the stress hormone, which was designed to be in your cells only a few moments, like running from a Sabor Tooth Tiger. Nowadays it is not socially acceptable to run away screaming when you are stressed out by your boss, traffic, colleagues, family or the economy. So the cortisol just sits there, damaging your cells and compromising your immune system. Well that is scary too because your thoughts are actually having an adverse affect on your health.

Doctors know that around 85 percent of their patient’s complaints stem directly or indirectly from stress. A movie that shows exactly how thoughts affect the cells in our body is What the Bleep Do We Know?

There are many techniques you can use to pivot your mind away from negative thoughts. These techniques became a precise science to those who studied or developed them. Knowing what you want, and visualizing it regularly, is very effective. Engaging in a Rampage of Appreciation is another. Surrounding yourself with positive people or interacting only with positive people will change your life for the better. There is no reason or purpose to live as a mental slave of those around you or as a robot driven by fear and judgment perpetuated by the media, unless you choose to. Many people think they have no choice. That is because they have not explored the ways in which they can take their power back. It never occurred to them.

The first step in any kind of change is to consciously WANT that change, to consciously WANT to feel better, to be more productive, to have more energy and to be happier. We can all start by being very aware of our thoughts. Thoughts are things. They have a powerful energy and they affect other people around us, as well as our own bodies. They affect everything. It is time that we learned how to use this beautiful built-in system we were born with, this beautiful mind…and to begin to have more conscious control over our own lives.

References:

1. Dr. Quantum’s Little Book of Big Ideas – Where Science Meets Spirit by physicist Fred Allen Wolf; Moment Point Press, Massachusetts, 2005
2. Evolve Your Brain – The Science of Changing Your Mind by Joe Dispenza, D.C. Health Communications Inc., Florida, 2007
3. The Molecules of Emotion – The Science Behind Mind-Body Medicine by Dr. Candace Pert, Simon & Schuster, 1999
4. Ask and It Is Given – Learning to Manifest Your Desires by Esther Hicks, Hay House, California 2004

For more info, contact June Milligan at (775) 786-9111 or visit online at www.joyfulchanges.com.

Tattoos are practically as old as time. For thousands of years this art form served as adornments, status symbols, declarations of love, religious rites, coming of age rituals, even punishment for cultures all over the world. Early examples of tattoos were found on female Egyptian mummies dated to circa 2000 B.C. It is believed that the intricate patterns, typically found on the belly, legs and breasts were meant to serve as protective amulets for women in childbirth. Tattoos were traditionally used in Celtic, North African, Chinese, Japanese, Maori, and Polynesian cultures. After James Cook’s expedition to Tahiti in 1769, tattoos became fashionable among Europeans, particularly sailors. The word “tattoo” stems from a Polynesian origin, “tatau.”

Tattoos are experiencing resurgence in popularity today. It is estimated that 14 percent of all North American adults are tattooed. As of late, tattoo artists, tools and techniques have become increasingly more sophisticated. At one time, tattoos carried a lot of negative stigma; today they are increasingly being recognized as legitimate art.

If you enjoy being tattooed, or are considering being tattooed for the first time, what do you need to know about properly caring for your body art? Stephanie Cootware, a fantastic artist currently working at Reno Tattoo Company, offers some important guidelines:

Get tattooed by professionals: Be sure to find an artist that works out of a professional shop, instead of out of their home. It is important to be sure that the shop has impeccable hygiene standards. Be sure to see your artist using new needles straight out of the packaging, gloves and sterilized equipment. Do your research; check out your artist’s portfolio, and make sure you like their past body of work.
Immediately after being tattooed: Most artists will wrap your tattoo in Saran wrap. This acts like a layer of skin, and keeps the tattoo moist during its initial healing process. Stephanie recommends leaving it on over night before removing it and washing with anti-bacterial soap.

Keep it clean: Wash your tattoo thoroughly at least four times a day, with an anti bacterial or hypo-allergenic soap. Use hot water and pat it dry with a clean towel. Showers are preferable to baths as it is not a good idea to let the tattoo soak in water. Do not go swimming while your tattoo is healing either, it is one of the fastest ways to get an infection. Do not scratch or pick at your tattoo, no matter what!

Keep it moisturized: Use a good healing ointment for the first four days or so. Jason and Dr. Bronners both make organic healing salves that are great for tattoos. Vitamin E oil is another great choice. Apply ointment immediately after washing and drying. After about four days, when the tattoo starts to dry more, use a light, fragrance free lotion. Cocoa butter also works well.

Keep it out of the sun: “Sun exposure is the biggest destroyer of brand new tattoos” says Stephanie. Even after your tattoo is completely healed, it is important to protect it with sun screen, and be moderate about sun exposure.

Keep an eye on it: Some warning signs of infection are redness around the tattooed area, extreme pain, bumps or rashes. If you suspect your tattoo is infected, continue washing it regularly and get in to see a doctor as soon as you can. Some people experience allergic reactions from red ink. If you suspect that you are having an allergic reaction, get to a doctor immediately. Many artists are now using hypo-allergenic inks which have less risk of negative reactions. If you are concerned about this, talk to your artist about the type of ink that they use.

Stay tuned for a follow up article on long-term care of your tattoos and what to do if you decide you don’t like a tattoo anymore.

References:

1. http://www.smithsonianmag.com/history-archaeology/tattoo.html
2. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tattoo

It is estimated that 80 percent of people will suffer from back pain at some point in their life. The costs associated with back pain are estimated to be $50 billion a year. Back pain is the most common reason for missed work and the second most common reason for a visit to the doctor’s office, which is second only to respiratory infections. The personal costs of back pain can be immeasurable, interfering with the things that make up our life … from playing with our kids and/or grandkids, doing our favorite activities, being able to work, etc. Back pain can lead to a diminished overall sense of health and well-being and can affect us physically, emotionally and even spiritually.

The most common causes of back pain are mechanical in nature, originating from things like poor posture, bad body mechanics, repetitive stress, and/or acute injury. For most people, these things accumulate over time and eventually lead to back pain syndromes. Unless there is trauma such as a fall or car accident, most people cannot pin point any one particular cause. In fact, one of the most common reports goes something like this, “I don’t’ know what happened, I just bent over to tie my shoe and BAM – I could not stand up”. In truth, bending over to tie your shoe is not enough stress to cause an injury unless there is weakness or instability. Think of a paper clip. Bend that paper clip back and forth and then keep bending it back and forth. What will eventually happen? The paper clip will break. It was not that last bend that broke the paper clip though; it was the cumulative effect of bending it back and forth over time.

Tears in the spinal disc (either from an acute injury or a build up of something happening over time) can ultimately result in what is commonly called a bulging disc, or herniated disc. The spinal disc is a highly innervated structure which basically means if injured it can be a great source of pain, both in the neck and the low back.

Until recently, it was most commonly thought that the only way to correctly treat an injured disc was through surgery. However, there is an alternative FDA approved treatment called Spinal Decompression Therapy. This is a non-invasive treatment that has up to a 70 percent chance of the patient resuming a normal lifestyle. It can be used for both the neck and low back. Gentle decompression of the disc is performed with the use of a specialized table. The patient lies on a table, which then applies a distractive force to a targeted area of the spine (the injured disc). A computer controls the distractive force which is applied between periods of relaxation, gently pulling the spine and stretching. This creates a vacuum, pulling the disc back into its normal healthy shape. The decompression works in increments over time allowing the disc to re-shape and heal itself, taking pressure off both the disc and spinal nerves, acting as a natural pain reliever. This also helps the disc get the proper flow of nutrients, which help protect it against future injuries. Treatment sessions last for 15 minutes and generally take place over a four to six week period.

Signs and symptoms of a spinal disc problem can vary from moderate to severe back and neck pain, sciatica or leg pain, arm pain, numbness and tingling and/or muscle weakness.

If a spinal disc problem is suspected, accurate diagnosis by a physician is critical to ensure proper treatment protocols.

References:

1. American Spinal Decompression Association. www.americanspinal.com.
2. Hestbaek L, Leboeuf C, Manniche C: Low back pain: what is the long-term course? A review of studies of general patient populations. European Spine Journal 2003 , 12(2):149-165.

For more info, contact Dr. Jennifer Cardinal at (775) 829-8686.

Instant burn relief
Pleo Muc (Mucor racemosis friesen) cream from Germany is an extraordinary, FDA approved product that gives immediate relief from burns of all description and of course sun burn. Apply immediately after burns, then 20 minutes later and one hour later and that usually heals the burn without scarring. It also works by injection for frostbite in a few hours and prevents amputations. It has many amazing qualities. Topical heparin and vitamin C sprays are also miraculous for burns.

Brown Recluse spider bite cure
Brown Recluse bites can cause horrible disfigurement and disability, ulcerations and chronic pain. With two to four treatments of ozone gas injected under the ulcer after local anesthetic and then topical ozone gas over the top of the lesion they begin to heal and completely resolve. This also works for chronic lesions.

PMS and menstrual cramp relief
Some women can become not only irritable but homicidal before their periods. Natural bio-identical progesterone (not progestins) relieves 90 percent of these symptoms within two menstrual cycles.

Instant headache relief
Neural therapy from Germany is well established, for over 100 years. It uses procaine, a local anesthetic, into every point in the body and is particularly powerful over acupuncture points. By injecting a small amount of procaine two fingerbreadths on each side of the occipital notch on the back of the head it stops 80 plus percent of headaches in 30 seconds or less.

Instant gallbladder pain relief
Neural therapy with procaine and Spascupreel, a homeopathic remedy from Germany, stops most gall bladder pain immediately by injecting acupuncture points under the right rib cage and over the liver. It saves most people from gallbladder surgery.

Instant kidney stone pain relief
Neural therapy with procaine and Spascupreel applied over the bladder and kidney meridian points at the base of the skull, middle of the back and on points around the knees provides immediate relief for the terrible kidney stone pain and nausea.

Instant asthma relief
Asthma sufferers are always sensitive to pressure on their shoulder blades. These tender points when injected with procaine and Spascupreel immediately relieve the most stubborn, shut down asthma patients and also greatly help with emphysema and pneumonia.

Instant sinus relief
By injecting “secret” acupuncture points over the sinuses with procaine and Pleo rec, Bacillis firmus, chronic sinus problems can be cured. Any sinus intervention interferes with the nerve functioning of the sinus, such as sinus ablation, polyp removal, allergy, turbinate surgery and nasal bones surgery. Procaine awakens the nerves to function properly again after they have been insulted by surgical intervention or allergy. Please do not drink milk if you have sinus issues.

Chronic fatigue relief
There are many was to help with chronic fatigue, especially with natural thyroid replacement, even with normal thyroid blood tests. The most important first step in everyone with fatigue is supporting the adrenal gland on top of the kidney. It is a major source of energy in the body. By giving weekly adrenal complex shots with B12 and folic acid in a time release matrix it gives energy, blood sugar, sleep, anti anxiety, memory, relief from cravings and much more for a week. Also oral adrenal cortex tablets (not adrenalin) are available from organically raised sheep from New Zealand and give energy for four to six hours. Patients love these interventions.

Stop colds in one hour
There are many great interventions for acute viruses but Pleo Rec suppositories are a great favorite. It is an extract of Bacillis firmus from Germany and turns most acute colds around in an hour.

Immediate food poisoning and GI flu relief
Pleo fort, Penicillium roqueforti, is very powerful to turn around acute food poisoning and GI flu. It is not related to regular penicillin and has no side effects. It is important to always take it along on foreign travel. It is great for children and babies who have a failure to thrive.

Amputation prevention
EDTA chelation therapy along with topical ozone bagging of feet and legs prevents most amputations in diabetics with impaired circulation and neuropathy to the feet and toes. We have many happy patients who still have toes after facing amputation.

Difficult virus and bacterial infection relief
Intravenous vitamin C and IV nutrients followed by oxidative therapy, IV peroxide or ozone, are very amazing to turn around
chronic viruses or very sick acute viral and bacterial patients. This has been done in Germany since 1918 when they saved 80 percent of the pandemic, equine encephalitis virus patients. Don’t we wish all hospitals had this available?

Instant knee and shoulder joint pain relief
Neural therapy with procaine, German, anti-inflammatory homeopathics with a little Kenalog (cortisone like preparation) and ozone ( O3 ) gas injected around and in the joints usually every week for two to six weeks relieves pain and prevents many surgeries on chronically painful joints.

Teeth saved from extractions and root canals
Infected teeth and failing root canals are a very, very common cause of chronic illness. Injecting next to the tooth with procaine, Germany pleomorphic remedies such as pleo not ( Penicillium notatum), Arthrokelan A ( Sophonispora molymorpha), Pleo pef ( Candida peripsilosis) and Pleo nig ( Aspergillosis niger) along with ozone kill the bacteria in failed root canal teeth and in cavitations under the teeth which can cause every imaginable illness. This technique frequently stops pain and infection and the need for tooth extraction or root canal therapy.

Depression relieved without drugs
Anti-depressant drugs have many side effects including weight gain, loss of libido and suicidal ideation. Amino acids are the food molecules for the same brain chemicals that are increased with antidepressant drugs that artificially increase serotonin and norepinephrine. By supplementing the amino acids 5 HTP ( 5 hydroxytryptophan) precursor to serotonin and tyrosine, precursor to norepinephrine, with the appropriate co factors we can turn up these same neurotransmitters with no side effects and fill the gas tanks of our neurotransmitters and relieve depression, anxiety, insomnia, OCD, adrenal weakness and much more.

Fertility restored
Many women are estrogen dominant and progesterone deficient. Bioidentical progesterone (for the pregnancy) is very helpful for conception and preventing miscarriage. Most gynecologists still don’t understand the difference between a progestin or progestogen and real progesterone which is most important to promote and retain the pregnancy. Thyroid deficiency is the other major, misunderstood player in infertility. Many physicians ignore blatant symptoms of low thyroid such as coldness, low blood pressure, fatigue, dry skin and puffiness. Replacing progesterone and thyroid helped many patients to conceive.

Congestive heart failure (CHF) relief
When the heart swells up and stops pumping efficiently the legs swell up, the lungs fill with water and the patient succumbs. There are many ways of combating CHF including CoQ10¬ and mercury removal. The CHF patient has 20,000 times more mercury in their heart than a normal young patient. Most interestingly far infrared sauna has been shown by studies at the Mayo Clinic to reverse CHF. This has also been our experience. Far infrared saunas are high tech, low temperature saunas that are well tolerated by the ill and elderly and give the radiation of sunshine which remove environmental toxins such as plastics, pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals, volatile, organic hydrocarbons, solvents and industrial waste and allows the heart nerves to function more normally.

Grief relief
We have seen many instances of acute grief and loss, family deaths, loss of jobs, divorce and severe disappointments helped immensely by the Heel Ignacia Hommacord injection and homeopathic Ignacia amara tablets. This coupled with adrenal complex shots have helped family members cope with difficult situations and bring families together to resolve and heal in these emotionally charged sistuations. For chronic grief and loss the homeopathic remedy Natrum mur is wonderful.

Reference:

1. Dosch, MD, Peter. Manual of Neural Therapy according to Huneke. Karl F Haug Publishers, Heidelberg, 1984.
2. Rogers, MD, Sherry. Detoxify or Die. Sand Key Company, Inc. 2002

For more info, contact the Gerber Medical Clinic at (775) 826-1900.

The greatest impact of the commercialization of feng shui is the awareness it brought to the West. Sadly, the feng shui taught and practiced here is not the authentic form found in the East.

Feng shui is a science that analyzes unseen environmental energies and the influence it has on people. It evolved over thousands of years, beginning with recorded observations of planetary energy movement and the compilation of formulas. An authentic assessment of feng shui considers form, direction, location, time and people.

Historically, feng shui Masters protected their knowledge while passing some of it to their disciples, retaining the most powerful secrets until they were near death. Early famous Masters safeguarded their lineage by writing classical poems that were encrypted with knowledge. Modern scholars are still attempting to accurately translate and comprehend these classics.

Most ancient cultures had energy workers, but China made feng shui famous. Throughout history, towns were strategically placed and designed to ensure lasting prosperity. In the 20th century, many powerful people around the world secretly used feng shui.

During the 1970’s, something new emerged… to be continued…

For more info, contact Rebecca Moore at Feng Shui Classical Consulting at (775) 830-8168.

Exercises that use a ball work on your body’s muscle groups from a strong central core, using good breathing techniques, strong mental focus, and smooth, flowing movements throughout, and mind-body connections. It’s an extremely safe, holistic, non stressful, and affective way to work out and can be performed almost anywhere, anytime, because the equipment is light, hardwearing, portable, and cheap. Working out with an exercise ball is also fun.

Key Benefits

The whole point about using an exercise ball is that it is an unstable base, which makes you work extra muscles and develop new skills– the simple at if sitting on the ball improves postural strength and awareness. Your abdominal and spinal muscles, which act as a splint around your spine, will become stronger, exercises will also help to strengthen and protect your back. Be patient overtime, your movements will become more fluid and graceful, and of course your fitness, strength, and stamina will all improve. As an added bonus, using a ball increases your proprioception– your unconscious perception of the world around you– improving balance and fine-tuning motor (movement) skills. Ball-based exercise is also excellent for reducing stress–stretching encourages greater relaxation, particularly when combined with mental focus and a good breathing technique.

References:

The mouth is the gateway to the immune system. Therefore, impeccable care of the teeth and gums is crucial to life-long health. With countless options available, many of which are cloaked in lofty health claims, what do you need to know about selecting the best toothpaste for you?
Here is a list of ingredients from three popular toothpaste products, including the pro’s and con’s of each product.

Colgate Total Toothpaste:

While this product is approved by the American Dental association and brags about its fluoride and antibacterial content, there are many reasons to reconsider the safety of this product. Debra Lynn Dadd says in her book, Home Safe Home, “fluoride toothpastes may contain ammonia, ethanol, artificial colors and flavors, formaldehyde, mineral oil, sugar, and carcinogenic polyvinylpyrrolidone plastic (PVP), the same plastic resin used in hairspray.” If that did not provide enough information for pause, consider this:

Triclosan: Antibacterial ingredient potentially contaminated with chemicals linked to cancer.

Sodium Saccharin: The FDA requires a warning on food products and chewing gums which contain this ingredient. It states that it has been shown to cause cancer in animal tests. For some reason the warning is not required on toothpaste.

Sodium Lauryl Sulfate: A known skin irritant and carcinogen. It is often used as an irritant in cosmetic testing to measure the soothing properties of other ingredients. It is commercially used in floor cleaners and engine degreasers.

Titanium Dioxide: Classified as an occupational carcinogen.

Tom’s of Maine Toothpaste:

This formerly independently owned cosmetic company is now owned by Colgate Palmolive. Though it claims to be a natural toothpaste product, it also contains Sodium Lauryl Sulfate. It contains Sodium Fluoride as well, which has been classified as toxic by both inhalation and ingestion. In high doses, studies show that it will affect the heart and circulatory system.

Jason Sea Fresh Toothpaste:

This product contains only plant and mineral based ingredients, none of which have been shown to be toxic. It contains several plant medicines that are especially helpful to the teeth and gums including:

Blue Green Algae: Naturally prevents infection of teeth and gums. Greatly enhances structure of connective tissue. Has a synergistic relationship with Vitamin C in building new tissue.

Aloe Barbadensis Gel: The anti-inflamatory action and high vitamin C content keeps tissue healthy and strong. It also soothes irritated gums.

Grapefruit Seed Extract: High vitamin C content and natural antibacterial and antimicrobial action helps prevent periodontal disease.

Parsley Extract: High in vitamin A, C, B vitamins, calcium and iron.

DIY Dental Hygiene:

You can further ensure the safety of your dental products by making your own tooth powders and products. Here are a few simple do-it-yourself projects:

Myrrh toothpowder: Equal parts powdered Myrrh and Goldenseal heals and prevents periodontal disease.

Baking soda magic: Add one drop of essential oil of spearmint to 1/4 tsp of baking soda before applying to toothbrush to gently polish teeth and freshen breath.

Gum joy oil:

1/4 cup coconut oil
1 tsp blue green algae

Massage into mouth after brushing to sooth gums and protect against harmful bacteria and microbes all day or night.

References:

1. Kowalchik, Claire, and William H. Hylton, Rodale’s Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs, Rodale Press, Pennsylvania, 1987
2. Wolfe, David, Eating for Beauty, Sunfood Publishing, CA, 2007
3. Dadd, Debora Lynn, Home Safe Home, Penguin, New York, 2004
4. www.wikipedia.org
5. http://www.ewg.org/
6. http://store.veganessentials.com/jason-sea-fresh-toothpaste-p1403.aspx
7. www.colgate.com
8. www.tomsofmaine.com