Studies show that noise has a powerful physical effect on our brains, causing elevated levels of stress hormones. Noise has also been linked to high blood pressure, heart disease, tinnitus, and loss of sleep.
But now science has proof that not only noise HURTS, but that silence HEALS. Silence relieves stress and tension in our bodies, is replenishing, and nourishes our cognitive resources. Noise makes us lose our concentration, cognitive powers, and causes decreased motivation and brain functioning.
Perhaps the ancient masters had it right. Spending time in silence can immediately relax us, promote healing, and balance the body and mind.
Community News
Gut Feeling
Poor gut health has been linked to fatigue, mood disorders like depression and anxiety, and a variety of conditions associated with nutrient deficiencies, such as anemia. Fibre is a great way to keep things regular and increase the elimination of toxins and waste from your digestive tract. Eat a variety of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains and grasses. If reaching the recommended 10 servings of vegetables per day seems unattainable, consider adding a greens powder to your daily routine to make things easier. Look for a product that is gluten-free, contains probiotics, and is cold-pressed, as this maintains enzymes that improve the digestion and absorption of nutrients.
4 Tips to Sleep Like a Baby!
Did you know that we spend one-third of our lives sleeping? It’s an integral body process that helps heal, restore and protect our many intricate systems and vital organ functions. When we sleep, our body is able to repair and recharge itself, leaving us with energy for the following day (and who doesn’t want more of that!?)
Take note of all of the following 4 behaviors that are proven to enhance sleep, and many of which are simple to incorporate starting tonight!
Tip # 1 There are various essential oil combinations that can promote restful sleep! Essential oils like Lavender and Bergamot are rich in linalool and linalyl acetate, compounds that have well-known relaxing properties. These oils can be diffused aromatically in the bedroom to create a calming and peaceful environment, perfect for getting a good night’s sleep. You could also try Vetiver, Roman Chamomile or Cedarwood.
Tip # 2 Shut off screens at least 1 hour before you want to go to bed (including iPads, phones, computers, TV)
The blue light that is emitted from our screens can actually disrupt sleep! Either shut down all devices or buy a pair of Blue Light Blocking Glasses. This will help to your body regulate its preferred sleep cycle.
Tip # 3 Invest in a sleep mask and a pair of ear plugs.
Though it may not be the most attractive way to sleep, imagine how deep your sleep will become when the world is silent & there is no light being emitted from your alarm clock, street lights or the stars. You could also invest in a pair of Blackout Blinds, which hide any light from outdoors, and make your bedroom a dark cave!
Tip # 4 Avoid sugars, alcohol, chocolate and candy 2 hours before bed.
Our body is sensitive to sugar, stimulates and simple carbohydrates (it gives us an insulin spike). In order to optimize the quality of your sleep, stop eating all food 2 hours before bed, and be especially conscious of the foods listed above in the 2 hour window before sleeping, as they can disrupt a good nights rest.
Ready, set, ZZZ!
Book Club: Hack Your Anxiety
How to Make Anxiety Work for You in Life, Love, and All That You Do. What if anxiety is not a monster to be tamed, but a resource to be tapped? In this revolutionary book, Dr. Alicia Clark recognizes anxiety as the unsung hero in the path to success and happiness. It can become the motivating force that will lead to a better you, and The Anxiety Advantage aims to restore anxiety to its rightful place as a positive resource. Reclaim your anxiety as a powerful energy source, and bring yourself peace, growth and success.
Words to Live By
“There are only two ways to live your life, one is as though nothing is a miracle, the other is as though everything is a miracle.”
-Author unknown
Laughter is the Best Medicine
My Doctor told me I should cut more carbs. So, I bought a new pizza knife. FUN FACT: Cutting carbs from your diet may help improve or even prevent serious health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and cardiovascular disease.
Clean Eating: Matcha Green Smoothie Bowl
Ingredients: 2 frozen ripe bananas, 1/4 cup chopped ripe pineapple, 3/4 – 1 cup light coconut milk, 2 tsp matcha green tea powder, 1 heaping cup organic spinach or kale. Topping ideas: Fresh berries, coconut flakes, banana slices, chia Seeds, slivered roasted almonds. Instructions: Add frozen banana slices, pineapple, coconut milk, matcha powder, and spinach to a blender and blend on high until creamy and smooth. Add only as much coconut milk as you need to help it blend. You want this smoothie somewhere between scoopable and drinkable. Divide between two serving bowls and top with desired toppings. Enjoy!
Black Seed Oil
Black Seed Oil
Black seed (Nigella sativa) is the new preferred therapeutic oil prized for its immune-boosting and antibacterial benefits to reduce respiratory, viral, and digestive ailments. This oil has been used medicinally in Middle Eastern cultures for millennia. Anecdotally, it’s been said to “cure everything except for death!” And the research is starting to back that up. Studies show that this versatile oil can regulate the immune system, benefit blood sugar, and has anti-cancer activity (Butt et al, 2010). Even though it’s known for its medicinal power, it can be used in cooking and food preparation. Look for a coldpressed black seed oil and for a synergistic blend, use oregano oil and black seed oil together. Look for a combination with vitamins A and D added to give your immune system the best tools to beat the bugs!
Giving Without Expecting in Return
To give fully means we let go of our need to be in control and give from the heart, welcoming in the most selfless form of generosity trusting that which is needed shall be received. “Giving like nobody is watching” offers a profound joy and way of being that stands alone without conditions or expecting to receive in return. Being in relationship we learn to both give and receive. When it becomes an automatic expectation that we deserve to receive in return, it ceases to be a gift and becomes a mutual exchange based on expectations and desire. Once gifted it no longer belongs to us, when we have difficulty divesting ourselves of expectations or find ourselves disappointed with unexpected results, then it’s time to re-align our expectations and adjust where we are giving from.
Benefits of Resistance Training
Many people associate resistance training with strictly muscle growth, but there are many other benefits from incorporating this type of training into your exercise regimen. Resistance training builds strength and tone to help protect your joints from injury. It improves balance to help you remain independent and reduce the chance of falls. Resistance training helps with weight management, as your body will burn more calories when you gain more muscle mass. Talk to your doctor to see if you are healthy enough to begin resistance training. An exercise professional can then help you develop a safe and effective program.
Citrus Oils Are Happy Oils!
Besides smelling amazing, citrus oils like bergamot, grapefruit, lemon, lime, and orange offer many health benefits. Limonene or D-Limonene, a natural compound found in citrus oils, has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Citrus oils have a positive effect on the lymphatic system, which helps your body detoxify. This can also help with problems such as poor circulation, allergies, cellulite, and fluid retention. The scent of citrus oils is a great mood booster, and you can add these oils to dish soap, hand soap, a carrier oil (for massage), or room freshening spray to enjoy them all day long!
