Humans have used aloe vera therapeutically for over 5,000 years. It is truly a medicinal plant, full of nutritional benefits. It contains 20 minerals, 19 of the 20 amino acids required by the body, and 12 vitamins. Aloe vera also provides the enzymes lipases and proteases, which aid in digestion; saponins, which are substances that exert a powerful anti-microbial effect against bacteria, viruses, fungi, and yeast; and salicylic acid, which when used topically helps to break down dead tissue. When taken orally, aloe vera acts as an anti-inflammatory. No wonder it is used for such a wide range of remedies.
Tips for Improving Mental Health
Studies show that people with untreated mental health problems visit a doctor twice as often as people who receive mental health care. One study of people with anxiety disorders showed that after psychological treatment, medical visits decreased 90%. Excessive anxiety, depression and stress can contribute to physical problems including heart disease, ulcers, headaches and musculoskeletal problems. Here are some ways to take care of your mental health:
• Exercise: Exercise reduces symptoms of stress, depression and anxiety.
• Ask For Help: Assess your mental health and ask for help if needed.
• Have Fun: Do something you are passionate once a week.
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!
Words to Live By
“Success is how high you bounce when you hit bottom.” -General George Patton
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.
Gramma’s Home Remedy
Did your gramma ever put honey on your skin when you got scrapes and bruises as a child? The saying is that putting honey on our wounds will help them heal faster and reduce the appearance of scars. The honey is antibacterial and will kill germs and bacteria on your face. Dermatologists agree that it will help scars fade, especially ones caused by acne. Some have found that honey in face masks has done beautiful things for their skin. Natural Ingredients that have partnered well with honey are lemon, aloe vera, coconut oil, and apple cider vinegar. (Not intended to replace consultation with a qualified medical professional) Maggie Makaruk DD, Anna’s Denture Clinic
Laughter is the Best Medicine
Q: Where did the hippo go to study about the brain? A: The hippocampus!
FUN FACT: The hippocampus is a region of your brain that helps form, organize, and store memory. It is the most sensitive area to stress.
Words to Live By
“Be more concerned with your character than your reputation, because your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.”
-John Wooden
Clean Eating: Matcha Green Smoothie Bowl
Ingredients: 2 frozen ripe bananas, 1/4 cup chopped ripe pineapple, 3/4 cup coconut milk, 2 tsp matcha green tea powder, 1 cup organic spinach or kale. Topping ideas: berries, coconut flakes, banana slices, chia seeds, almonds. Instructions: Add frozen banana slices, pineapple, coconut milk, matcha powder, and spinach to a blender and blend on high until creamy and smooth. Enjoy!


