 The liver is truly the KING of your internal organs. A healthy well functioning liver is crucial to detoxification and the body's ability to maintain a strong immune system. This blog will help you understand more about the importance of your liver, what helps it, what harms it and the many health issues that can arise from a congested liver. Within our culture in the US the rise in liver dysfunction is increasing at an alarming rate in ages as early as the 30's. Liver congestion is responsible for a wide range of immunity issues, from allergies to arthritis, cancer, sleep disturbances, anxiety, digestive issues, constipation, high blood pressure, brain fog and memory problems. A healthy liver is the guardian of the body. In spite of the many toxins we encounter from environmental pollution and chemical...a healthy liver will keep you glowing. How do you know if your liver needs help?
Here's the BAD NEWS...If you answer yes to three or more of these questions it is a strong indication that your liver is not happy! Here's the GOOD NEWS....the liver is extremely responsive to proper care and when you get things moving in the right direction it's often amazing how quickly health issue will turn around!  Understanding your liver. It's many functions and the role it plays in detoxification:
Liver disease and failure are progressive over time and are commonly associated with lifestyle and dietary choices. Treatment for liver dysfunction primarily focus on making changes to lifestyle and eating habits. Modalities such as lymphatic massage, acupuncture, Chi Nei Tsang, targeted whole food nutritional supplements, colon hydrotherapy, poultices, fasting and cleansing/detox protocols. Stages of Liver Dysfunction
 That's a lot of heavy information, but it's crucial to understand that the average age of liver disorders onset in the US population is... age 40 - 50 years. However the dietary issues, constipation and lifestyle choices , use of drugs, alcohol made in your 20's and 30's are the "set-up" for the decline in function and the development of liver disease. additional complications arise from the use of prescription medications and over the counter drugs that tax the liver. Bridge to Health is rolling out a Liver Reboot/Restore Protocol that offers an affordable way to heal and restore the liver with the assistance of Certified Wellness Consultant, Vanessa Goldeen. With over 45 years experience studying and guiding others through the changes needed to reverse liver disorders and achieve a new vibrant level of health. Connect with Ms. Goldeen for a Free 15 Minute Wellness Consult, to get answers to questions you may have about your current state of health.  Just a few of the healthy foods that are able to heal and restore the liver!
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 There are so many different therapeutic massage modalities to choose from. Many of them offer sustainable relief from pain and circulatory issues. But often it's challenging to understand what the options are and how to choose what's best for you. The questions are:
This blog article will provide information to support your choice to add Therapeutic Massage to your self care menu! Therapeutic massage incorporates a variety of advanced modalities that enhance the body's natural restorative functioning. Light to firm touch is used to release tension, relax muscles, increase blood and lymph circulation, and increase production of serotonin...a neurotransmitter and your body's antidote to too much adrenaline! Below are the massage modalities offered through Bridge to Health by Brittany Craven LMT. She has 7 years of active experience and has put together this information to educate clients and readers about therapeutic massage modalities, which therapies are best for your needs and how to know whether the therapist you are choosing is qualified. Regulations for training in massage therapy have expanded in the past twenty years, most states and some cities require licensing and certain levels of certification. Organizations such as ABMP & NCBTMB help ensure standards of practice throughout the profession. Having a short conversation with the therapist before making your initial appointment is crucial. It's your opportunity to ask about their credentials, training and years of experience. Additionally it is recommended that you check out their website and reviews. Bridge to Health offers a Free Fifteen Minute Consult for all clients. This allows you to get to know the therapist and allows them to make recommendations based on your symptoms or needs. The massage session will/should focus on your major areas of concern. A well trained therapist will also allow time to round out your session with other complementary modalities. Conditions which will benefit from therapeutic massage modalities are:
Therapeutic massage differs from "spa like" massages in that they are specifically targeted to relieve pain and bring improvement to the acute or chronic issues that arise in the body of almost everyone at some time. Spa massages generally are high in the "feel so good" response. They are relaxing and indulgent, but are not the best choice for those with chronic or acute pain, or other health issues. Practitioners of quality pamper who offer spa like sessions are providing a level of relaxation on the level of a mini-vacation. Sessions with an excellent relaxation massage therapist are a delight to the senses and will leave you smiling! However, a massage therapist whose practice focus is to lead you into sustainable relief from pain, stress or other concerns, will provide the "feel good" response and sustainable relief leading to facilitation of healing potential. The modalities listed below can be integrated into therapeutic massage sessions.  Lymphatic Drainage Massage: The lymphatic system cycles fluids with toxins from our tissues and intestines, it is a key component of the immune system Similar to the circulatory system, the lymphatic system is a network of vessels that transport lymph fluid and pathogen fighting cells to the tissues of the body. However, it does not have a heart to pump it so it requires movement in order to flow properly. Lymph vessels are very thin so it is easy for them to become partially clogged by dead cells and proteins or constricted by surrounding connective tissue tensions. For lymphatic drainage, gentle techniques are applied to release tissue tension to encourage lymph fluids to release clearing the internal clogs. The intestinal lymphatic system serves vital functions in the regulation of tissue fluid homeostasis, immune surveillance, and the transport of nutrients, and conversely this system is affected by, and directly contributes to disease processes within the intestine. Lymphatic Drainage Massage and Visceral Manipulation work well together to improve overall immunity and fluid clearing.  Visceral Manipulation: Most people are unaware of the invaluable healing support massage modalities can offer, Visceral Manipulation is a key therapy to alleviate and in many cases promote a cure for many symptoms of the gut as well as improving function of the internal organs of the abdomen. Visceral manipulation focuses on the internal organs in the abdomen and their interdependent relationship. Physical and emotional traumas such as car accidents, injuries, grief, PTSD and even everyday stressors can cause the tissues in the gut to constrict and twist in a pattern referred to as chronic holding. These restrictions will interfere with the movement of the stomach and bowels leading to conditions like heartburn, bloating, GERD, constipation, intestinal torsion (volvulus), and symptoms of IBS. For more information on the benefits of visceral manipulation visit this article, "Trust your Gut" from the Natural Health Practitioners of Canada Level of pressure is guided by the client with the intention of gradually being able to move deeper into the abdomen to maximize benefits. Feedback from the client is crucial in all modalities, especially visceral manipulation.  Myofascial Release Myo...latin derivation for muscle, fascial...the fascia tissue of the body. Fascia is an network of tissue that runs throughout the entire body. it is interconnected through every cell, organ, and body cavities. You could remove all the bones, organs and muscles leaving only the fascia and your body would still be the shape it is now. The fascia is the amazing organ that literally holds you together! Fascia can become injured, dehydrated or restricted. Causes of fascial restriction are numerous, but can be boiled down to injuries, repetitive movements (tennis elbow, etc..), poor workplace ergonomics, surgeries, scar tissue and emotional trauma which can also develop into chronic holding. An example of chronic holding is finding yourself clenching your jaw...holding your breath, shoulders are up to your ears...everyday stresses of life tend to produce chronic holding as does lifetime traumas or abuse. This holding causes the restriction in the fascia, reduces the flow of blood and lymph leading to chronic pain anywhere in the body. MFR is the "king" of pain relief modalities and is recognized by many professionals and researchers as highly effective. In addition to being effective for a wide variety of issues, a good therapist will also give you "homework" in the form of self treatment options to further promote healing. This modality is most effective when sessions are frequent and close together.  Cranio-sacral Therapy Pioneered by Osteopathic Physician, John E. Upledger, during his tenure years at Michigan State University where he served as professor of bio-mechanics. He developed the foundational techniques of Cranio-Sacral Therapy used today. During CST treatment the therapist evaluates and enhances the functioning of what is called the cranio-sacral system. This system is comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Using these techniques practitioners release tension and restrictions in the cranio-sacral system allowing the body to relax and self correct, freeing the central nervous system to perform at it’s best. A truly unique experience this modality produces sustainable relief and a high level of something more than relaxation....it is somewhat indescribable when done with a well experienced therapist.  Reflexology and Trigger Point Therapy Reflexology and trigger point therapies are similar and yet different. Reflexology focuses on the areas of the body that are junction points for the energetic meridians of the body. This therapy is applied primarily to the feet and hands, but is also used on other parts of the body especially along the neck, shoulders, arms and legs. Similar to acupressure the goal is to relieve congested energy improving the flow of chi or energy in the body system. Trigger point therapy consists of the practitioner focusing on "hot spots" in the body, commonly referred to as trigger points. Pressure is applied to these painful, sensitive areas in order to alleviate the pain. Active trigger points can cause what is called "referred pain", meaning the constriction at the trigger point may be responsible for pain in other parts of the body. This brings us back to the fascia....restrictions in one part of the body can cause pain in another part of the body! The therapist finds and applies pressure at painful trigger points which will relax the muscle and affected tissues. When pressure is applied on the trigger point, it may cause discomfort, though it does sometimes produce the odd effect "it hurts so good"!  Therapeutic Stretching
This modality is especially helpful for clients who suffer with "range of motion" issues due to injuries, lack of exercise, too much intense exercise or age related to limited movement capability. During a session of therapeutic stretching the practitioner will initially assess the clients needs and work progressively on the areas of greatest concern. As with MFR this modality becomes more effective when sessions are regular and clients continue to support the session work by doing recommended practices at home between sessions. The relief that comes from having someone else stretch you out is amazing! The therapist is able to help you make gains in flexibility and improved range of motion that might not otherwise be possible for you to do on your own. The goal with therapeutic stretching is restoration of movement and improved overall flexibility.  Chronic constipation is nearly the norm in modern societies. But, what exactly is constipation...how do we define it? con·sti·pa·tion| ˌkänstəˈpāSH(ə)n | noun * A condition in which there is difficulty in emptying the bowels, usually associated with hardened feces. * A high level of restriction; a pronounced lack of ease. Constipation is defined by transit time. Essentially from the time you ingest food until it comes out as stool should ideally be within 24-48 hours. Anything longer than that and you are constipated. Anything time shorter than that you may have Irritable Bowel Syndrome, which is a variation of constipation with the same treatment protocols. See the PDF below for a test to determine your transit time. Chronic constipation effects more than 20% of the US populations and is as common in children, teens adults and the elderly. For those who care for the elderly it is critical to pay daily attention to their bowel functions and seek professional help from someone who can bring a healthy solution to the problem. In my practice I have seen that MD's and Emergency Rooms are not equipped with a proper understanding to solve impaction or chronic constipation. They often recommend products that will cause the colon to balloon above the impaction with disastrous results! Bridge to Health offers Emergency Colonics for situations in which a client is impacted. Why is constipation a problem.....
Learn more about colon function read this article Those who suffer from chronic constipation experience these common symptoms...
What are the causes of chronic constipation?
Is it possible to reverse chronic constipation? Yes, but with all things related to the manifestation of symptoms, we must first be willing to understand that the symptom is the body talking to you....what is your body saying it needs? Just what does it need? The answers can be very individual, but there are tendencies and patterns that I often see in my Wellness and Colon Hydrotherapy practices. Explore the Pooping 101 and Chronic Constipation/IBS Recovery Protocols What will help alleviate chronic constipation?
Bridge to Health offers Online Courses to teach you how to Learn & Heal. If you are uncertain your constipation issue is chronic consider purchasing a Learn and Heal Consult with Vanessa Goldeen Certified Wellness Consultant and I-ACT Certified Colon Hydrotherapist. FDA Warning: This information is for education only and is not meant to diagnose, treat or prescribe for any disease or medical condition 
My interest in educating you about artificial sweeteners is a subject of a recent recovery success story in my practice and..... a painful story with a sad ending from my younger days. My closest and dearest friend was an artificial sweetener junkie. Back then it was saccharin which was a trade name for a chemical, benzoic sulfimide. (if you follow this link you'll see who supports it's continued use...these same organization encourage the use of other non-foods as healthy for humans). Sodium saccharin is an artificial sweetener with effectively no food energy. It is 300–400 times as sweet as sucrose with bitter or metallic aftertaste, especially at high concentrations. Saccharin was used to sweeten products such as drinks, candies, cookies, and medicines. One of the principle reason soft drinks use artificial sweeteners...is that they have a low volume. Meaning they can add more water and make more money, sugar takes up too much room!
Now that was back in the early 70's...a clue to my age and experience. I started studying Chinese Medicine in my 20's as a hobby and had always been a closeted science geek. I knew that saccharin was not a good idea. There had been a number studies demonstrating that it clearly caused bladder cancer in animals who were feed drinks containing this potent artificial sweetener. Over the years I encouraged my friend to STOP using that S#%T. She would wave her hand and tell me in her kindest words that I was a somewhat neurotic health nut! Because of my interest in natural lifestyle and healthier diet! I was a weirdo to most of my friends, bless them!! She continued to use saccharine until it was discontinued. Switching to Equal, Sweet & Low, Not that the new alternatives were any better. She found herself gaining more and more weight...which was a result of the way the body processes artificial sweeteners. By the time we were in our late 30's I received sad news from her that she had been diagnosed with cancer. It had gone undiagnosed for some time so she was at stage 3. The cancer had started in her BLADDER.....remember those rats! It spread and she died within a year. Her passing shook all of us, friends and family. It pains me when I think of how many people, wave their hands and dismiss what is only common sense. ANYTHING TOO FAR FROM NATURE TO WORK WITH THE BODY'S NATURAL PROCESSING MECHANISMS AND WILL CAUSE DAMAGE TO THE LIVER KIDNEYS AND GUT FUNCTIONS. IT'S A RULE!! Now, to the present. A client recently came to see me because in spite of the fact that she is only in her early 30's she had presented with elevated liver enzymes and evidence of a fatty liver. She came to me as recommended by a close friend who thought I might be able to help her. Remember, I said I am a science geek, so the first thing I do is a little detective work. I immediately researched issues relating to fatty liver in individuals who do not fit the usual profile. She didn't drink other than occasionally, her diet was fairly healthy and she was not a big junk food eater and fairly active...the most common factor in fatty liver disease in alcohol and poor diet. Upon reviewing her intake info I discovered that she had been eating a protein drink product "Gold Standard Whey" chocolate flavor for at least the past 3, maybe up to 5 years. This product contains acesulfame whose sweetening effect is even higher than saccharine. Acesulfame is currently being studied as it is implicated that is may be causing liver damage! Additionally she was taking inorganic vitamin supplements, an iron supplement and had occasional IV nutrient infusions to boost her energy and detox her body. All of which also may cause liver damage. IV nutrition has been widely used in hospitals, but recent studies indicate long term use of IV infusions are leading to liver damage. IV infusions are a popular fad these days...we'll be reporting more on this in future blogs. I set her up with a liver restoring protocols, she began a series of colonics to push the detox, and is also having regular Chi Nei Tsang sessions to help improve her biological functions, increasing serotonin and reducing adrenaline...the true secret to real health! After only 2 months she present her last liver enzyme test to me and her test ratios where nearly normal. Her doctor was AMAZED, stating that she "had rarely ever seen anyone reverse in this way and certainly not this quickly". My client has been diligent and dedicated as her serious health risk threatened everything that means the most to her...her family!
A little note about liver enzymes....
The liver is a powerful organ, able to be restored to healthy function and is highly resilient when you provide it what it needs!
The Bridge to Health Winter Detox focuses on liver health. Look for our upcoming Liver Restoration Protocol which will guide you through all facets of improving liver function. All the BTH Protocols give you access to questions and answer via our members only Protocol Forum...is like having a Certified Wellness Consultant in your pocket...ie, your phone!
The label above doesn't say artificial sweetener. Many of the foods you may be eating daily could contain artificial sweeteners. Unless you know that acesulfame is what it is, you wouldn't recognize it.
They are added to foods such as...
Here's a few more facts about artificial sweeteners....
The following links support evidence that artificial sweeteners. * Acesulfame potassium affects the gut microbiome and body weight gain. *Aspartame intake causes changes in the trans-sulphuration pathway, glutathione depletion & liver damage LEARN MORE ABOUT STAYING HEALTHY SUBSCRIBE TO THE BTH WELLNESS & RECIPE BLOG Having had a recent exposure to Covid at the Bridge to Health office we have decided to post this blog to help clients understand more about when and when not to come in for appointments. The client thought their symptoms of LOSS OF TASTE AND SMELL were associated with allergies... In truth this client was four days into a case of COVID and tested positive the next day! Every person with active symptoms can expose many others who will then pass it on to their families, friend and co-workers. Many of those can be elderly, immune compromised or young children.  Refer to the chart above for a better understanding of symptoms associated with Covid. FOLLOW THESE GUIDELINES AND PASS THEM, NOT THE COVID, ONTO EVERYONE YOU KNOW!
IF YOU HAVE BEEN EXPOSED TO AN ACTIVE CASE.....
So I hope you are all getting the import here....get tested regularly, use your commonsense and focus on building your immunity and your consciousness in order to help yourself and others! Below is a chart showing the most common symptoms of Covid.   As a I-ACT Certified Colon Hydrotherapist I most often recommend clients undertake a series of sessions close together, at least six. This is not a "sales pitch" but a recommendation that enables the colon to be cleansed of accumulated biofilms, bacteria and older hardened stools. Additionally colonics help relieve constipation, strengthen the colon and improve peristaltic motion. The detoxification from one colonic equals three days of fasting. As a Certified Wellness Consultant, cleansing the colon is the first recommendation I make for those interested in restoring or improving their health. Let's break down why a series is beneficial. Biofilm, what is it? and why should I be concerned about it?
 Biofilm Development How do we get biofilms in the first place?
 Biofilms removed during colonic session The long and the short of it is biofilms harbor bacteria of all sorts, lyme, E-coli.....on and on, as well as parasites. These bacteria disrupt the immune system and rob your body of nutrients to support their growth. A series of colonics is like soaking a crusty casserole dish in hot soapy water.....the more often the sessions. Sessions closer together in combination with dietary recommendation and certain superfoods that will help break down these biofilms. You will begin to see a wide variety of mucoid biofilm plaques loosen from the colon tract and flow out of the body if you proceed this way! After completing 6-12 sessions over 1-2 months a maintenance program of 1 colonic per month will ensure along with dietary changes, that your colon will be free of the mucoid biofilms. Learn more go to the Colonics Modality link Improving constipation and colon motility
 Anatomy of the Colon How does a colonic detoxify the body...
 Polyps start with the deposits of biofilms To summarize....Your colon is the most amazing organ in your body!
Learn more about your colon: Wikipedia, ER Services, The Second Brain, Michael D. Gershon MD  The colon has a massive interior surface area  Rebuilding probiotics in the colon is a game changer in terms of immunity and recovery from gut issues. Many folks are suffering disruptions in micro flora due to antibiotic/antifungal therapies including heroic treatments for Lyme and co-infections. Heroic treatments for lyme include antibiotic and antifungal agents that severely impair the healthy flora of the entire body, not just the digestive tract. Other medications disrupt the microbiome as well. Healthy probiotic are also discouraged by the use of excessive hand washing/sanitizers. Immunity begins with your hands and mouth as the vehicles for continual challenges to your immune system. Areas of the body needing to have flora re-established include...the nose, sinuses, ears, throat, vagina, scrotum, small intestine and colon. Re-establishing flora to nasal passages and sinus can easily be done by simply inhaling small amounts of a probiotic rich solution such as packaged probiotic powders or juice from fermented vegetables which will make it way to the sinuses as well. You may also use fermented vegetable juice to gargle with which will restore flora to the throat. Kefir can be used by swabbing it into the ears and nose. Additionally kefir can be applied to the vaginal area and scrotum to restore flora in those locations. For vaginal application simply apply a coating of kefir and put on your underwear leaving the kefir on for a couple of hours. Women can apply the kefir to a small thin pad and wear throughout the day. For day to day boosting of intestinal probiotics nothing beats probiotic rich foods to support healthy probiotic balance. See the blogs on this subject, Fermented Foods and the DIY Recipe for making Kim Chi & Fermented Veggies! Bridge to Health offers implants and infusions with colonics as a boost to detoxification and immunity. Learn more about the benefits on infusions and implants. Probiotic that are dehydrated and powdered can be used for a colon implant. These need not be terribly expensive. I use the Garden of Life brand, Fitbiotic. The advantage of these powders in the number of organism present in the concentrated powder, 50 billion count of 12 probiotic strains. Directions for self administered implants See the pictorial directions below as well.
I recommend doing a probiotic implant 2 x's per month for 3 months, then down to 1 x per month for three month. If all goes well and you are eating plenty of fermented foods and protecting your flora continue to do a probiotic implant every three months are a general rule to maintain a strong colon flora. Step by Step Pictorial Instruction Cleaning the tip after use.
Other Implant Options for the Colon Along with probiotic implants there are other ways to boost immunity by taking advantage of the colon's ability to absorb nutrient via it's extensive capillary network.
Wheatgrass Implants Instructions: Use fresh or frozen wheatgrass. I prefer the Dynamic Greens WheatGrass, learn why
Coconut Oil/Castor Oil Suppository Instructions
Purchasing Guide (Links are embedded) If you are under the care of a medical provider, it is crucial to review any
recommendations with them before integrating them into you lifestyle. FDA Warning: This information is for education only it is not meant to diagnose, treat or prescribe for any disease or medical condition
The microbe is nothing, the matrix is everything... My recent experience over the past few years has brought me into contact with many folks dealing with ongoing microbial infections, in particular Lyme. Lyme disease seems to have been burgeoning in recent years. But, it has been with us for a long time as an undetected and often misdiagnosed illness. A number of medical professional are now understanding this is a real illness and although it seems to elude treatment, it is indeed treatable. Many folks have gone undiagnosed for many years and can really end up in a serious spot with a symphony of symptoms that seem to define understanding. It is important to note that of all the population that may carry Lyme bacteria and other co-infections, only approximately 30% -35% of the population become symptomatic. Why is this, is the question? In my experience almost everyone who becomes symptomatic have experienced undue levels of stress, burned the candle at both ends for too long, possible addiction issues with drugs or alcohol, aging, junk food, not enough sleep, etc.. All these things lower the immune response making one susceptible to infections. All pathogenic microbes and viruses are parasitic in nature..... Meaning they are more able to get a foothold in a body that is suffering from enervation/adrenal fatigue, is toxic, overweight, undernourished. This ties into the basic tenant of naturopathic medicine of yester years in which the understanding of the day, believed the microbe is nothing, the matrix that allows the microbe to proliferate is everything! In our modern world we are indeed challenged to maintain a healthy microbiome and strong immunity that can fend off microbial invasions. Overuse of antibiotics and general genetic decline attributable to poor nutrition and tissue clogging fast and convenience foods are a sure fire recipe to find oneself in trouble. The blog post, State of Health and Wellness in America goes into depth about this phenomenon. Many folks with Lyme and the myriad of other bacterial or fungal infections may have been suffering for many years before they finally receive a valid diagnosis. They have gone untreated or mistreated from the wrong thing, sunken into a morass of symptoms and residual side effects from prescription medication. Like a tangled chain it seems impossible to sort it all out. Intensive heroic allopathic measures are often the treatment option that is best suited when someone has first contracted Lyme, however most people are not aware of the initial onset event. Antibiotic and antifungal treatments eventually imbalance the body's natural ecology pushing the patient into deeper symptoms. Beyond these heroic measure one must learn to support improved immunity to ultimately vanquish these invisible foes. Bacterial infections can be eradicated, but in the case of Lyme and it's coinfections success is often found in finding an equilibrium that allows one to live as symptom free as possible. Botanical offer powerful healing support from bacterial and viral infections The botanicals below are useful for many types of infections. I have used a number of them over the past forty years in which I have been able to stay antibiotic free by treating infection with sound natural therapies and fasting. Nature provides us abundantly with sources of healing potential. The list below includes link to research documentation for a deeper level of confidence!
The gallery below offers links to purchase the botanical above. Click on the image, the link will activate. These botanicals are potent medicine and are best used under the direction of a ND, Wellness Practitioner or experienced Herbalist. Acute infections require immediate stronger dosages. For those with chronic infections it's advisable to start with a low dose and build up to the maximum dose over a period of a week to 10 days. If no adverse reactions occur move onto the next option.
It is important to note that you may begin to experience herxing or die-off reactions as these herbs begin to affect the bacterial growth. To prevent excessive herxing, back down dosage, if symptoms lighten or abate, it was die-off and not an adverse reaction.You may need to consult with your ND, MD or Wellness Consultant to determine if you are having a reaction or die-off symptoms. To learn more about how these herbs may benefit you with your health challenges connect with Certified Wellness Consultant and Educator Vanessa Goldeen, see the booking link below and schedule your Free 15 Minute Phone Consult today! Also learn more about Adaptogens. Powerful herbs and fungi sources that help modulate immunity, endocrine balance and reduce inflammation. WARNING: If you are under the care of a medical provider, it is crucial that you review any recommendations with them before integrating them into you lifestyle. Recommendations on this blog are not intended to diagnose or treat medical conditions.
Transformation of Eli - LOVE in Action, Vanessa Goldeen 2015 Upon reflection of the why I am setting about to do the work I am doing in this field of health and healing where there appears to be so many voices one could listen to....what do I have to say that's different, new or supremely useful?
Meditating on these questions has given me the opportunity to clarify my purpose. Which I can sum up in one word..... COMPASSION
It is my belief that I have arrived at a certain wisdom founded in love that is useful to others. It is my heart felt intention to share this wisdom whether esoteric or practical in application to help meet the needs who are trying to find their way through the maze of chronic illness. I myself have experienced being down the rabbit hole of chronic illness in my life. Through the circumstances of my life I have been led, in part by necessity to choose to find my own way out of that hole. I was young, on my own and did not insurance for health care, which meant seeing doctors was out. Additionally I had had so many negative experiences with MD's who simply were not listening to me or could not admit they had no answers, so I just stop going in that direction. Being a little Hippy Girl, I was already turned onto whole foods and detoxing. This gave me a foundation to expand my knowledge beyond support through food, to herbs and other healing modalities. I avidly studied Chinese Medicine, Ayurveda, Louise Hay, the famous 12 Steps and more. I explored health and wellness through every avenue I could find! I began early on to understand that folks who become ill usually have a crisis of sorts proceeding their decline. It may have been dramatic or subtle. A broken heart, a stressful work of home situation. Happiness falling into your lap as it did in my case. I suffered a major set back within weeks of marrying my husband and love of my life, David. With all the layers of heartache and trauma I had experienced in my life previous to this, my body literally could not contain the joy! Mold found me and took me down. For the second time in my life I was back in the rabbit hole after having gotten myself out once before. Initially it took awhile to narrow down what was happening, but through prayer and perseverance it became clear I was reacting to high levels of mold on the Central Coast of CA. I'll post that story later in an upcoming Mold Recovery Post! Over the past 20 years I have been able to pull together all my research, wisdom and experience into what I believe are key foundational requirements for anyone with chronic illness to move toward recovery. These components take into account the "whole person" and reach into every corner of your heart to help you find the courage to ask for and find the help you need. It is my sincerest desire to share this wisdom with others, because I have learned that LOVE never fails! When you are willing to make changes, stick to protocols, learn the think in a new way in your heart and have faith to believe that what has gone awry can be reversed and that health and happiness can be restored, that's LOVE and Faith in action!  The concept of adaptogens was originally created in 1947 to describe a substance that may increase resistance to stress. Adaptogenesis was later applied in the former Soviet Union to describe remedies thought to increase the resistance of organisms to biological stress. Another definition for an herb to be considered an adaptogen requires that it must be nontoxic, nonspecific, and thought to affect physiology of the organism. Wikipedia - Support Wikipedia There has been debate among the scientific and medical community for many years over the proof that these herbs and super foods have any true benefit. The problem of proof arises when we fail to understand that the forms of medicine from which the knowledge to these herbs are based on observational study over 1,000's of years! In Asia, the Middle East, South America and Europe plant based medicine has been refined and adapted for generations and generations. We forget that previous to the "scientific age" all knowledge was past down orally or in written form from one healer to another. It is through this long chain of experience that we have come to know about the power of these plants. So, I am not going to offer proof per se, however at the bottom of this post you will find some research links because we are now entering a new age of reason and commonsense. Researches are, more than ever interested in unlocking the ancient knowledge and wisdom of letting food, ie plants, be thy medicine! Below you will find the tried and true adaptogens for immunity and stress. For questions about how you can personally integrate these plant based therapies into your regime you may want to seek advice and guidance form a Wellness Consultant, ND, Herbalist or Chinese Medical Doctor or Acupuncturist. Adaptogens take time to create change, they are meant to be used as a tonic on a daily basis over a period of time. It is also advisable to take breaks, allowing the body to integrate. This break taking will be a new post in the near future. Many people who have been chronically ill are feed up with protocols for good reason. Taking breaks is VERY IMPORTANT! Immunity Boosting Adaptogens  Cordyceps - Cordyceps sinensis This is the funniest looking fungi. Cordyceps is a genus of parasitic fungi that grows on the larvae of insects. When these fungi attack their host, they replace its tissue and sprout long, slender stems that grow outside the host’s body. Cordyceps increase the body’s production of the molecule adenosine triphosphate (ATP), essential for delivering energy to the muscles improving the way your body uses oxygen, Cordyceps and the following fungi, Reishi are often paired together in capsule form. See below for sources for these adaptogens.  Reishi - Ganoderma lucidum One of the most important effects of the reishi mushroom is that it boosts immunity This fungus has potential cancer-fighting properties. Helps with fatigue and depression by improving overall cellular function at the mitochondrial level, the power plant of your cells. It's also good for the brain and is currently being researched as a possible aid for those suffering from neurological disorders. In addition to all that goodness, it support regeneration of the liver improving the ability to capture and release toxic byproducts from the blood.  Eleuthero - Eleutherococcus senticosus The main active agents in Panax ginseng are ginsenosides, which are triterpene saponins. Beneficial effects include anti-inflammation, antioxidant. As well as inhibiting cancer growth. Clinical studies indicate that ginseng improves psychologic function, improving depression symptoms and elevating mood. Additionally ginseng helps regulate blood sugar, beneficial to those who may be borderline diabetic. It is generally well tolerated, but there can be contraindication to take in consideration. In particular it may interact with warfarin, oral hypoglycemic meds, insulin and phenelzine. It is advisable to consult with you health care practitioner and your medical doctor before adding this to you protocol. Maximum time to use 3 -4 month, then take a break and return to it if needed. Adaptogens for Stress & Mood  Holy Basil - Ocimum tenuiflorum Is an aromatic perennial plant native to the Indian subcontinent. It is a cultivated plant throughout the Southeast Asian tropics. Holy Basil maintains equilibrium among biochemicals associated with the stress system in the body. Ursolic, Rosmarinic acids and Eugenol have all shown antioxidant activity and support normal levels of inflammation. Highly revered in Ayurvedic Medicine, Holy Basil is the calm the F%@& - down herb! Taken as a tonic herb it supports the nervous system by reducing ennevation.. overstressed nerves! Jangled and overwhelmed feelings indicate the use of Holy Basil.  Ashwagandha - Withania somnifera Studies have shown that ashwagandha helps modulate the stress response of cortisol secretion. Cortisol is a "stress hormone" secreted by the adrenal glands in response to stress, as well as when your blood sugar levels get too low. With prolonged stress cortisol levels become chronically elevated, leading to high blood sugar levels and increased fat storage in the abdomen. Studies of chronically stressed adults, those who supplemented with ashwagandha had significantly greater reductions in cortisol, compared to a control group. Those taking the highest dose had a 30% reduction, on average. Ashwagandha is best taken as a tonic over a longer period of time to produce the most benefit.  Rhodiola - Rhodiola rosea
90 Rhodiola species exist world wide (55 of which are found in China, and 30 of which can be found in Tibet) all of which resemble sedum (Sedum sp.), the popular garden ornamental, and are members of the Crassulaceae family. Both of these genera are often referred to as 'stonecrops' due to their ability to survive in dry rocky areas. In Chinese medicine plants medicinal qualities are often linked to their survival habits. This wonderful herb can survive almost anywhere. It is tenacious and can out last any stress. What it is able to do in nature, it will do for you. Together these three herbs have been the best source of support for me in times of unrelenting stress! Sources Daily Stress Balance - Herb Pharm. Supplies all three stress adaptogens in one formula, along with ginseng. Dosages are moderate making it useable for a good long time to get the benefits. Use as directed Andrena Soothe - Herb Pharm is another good option, combining reishi and ashwagandha. Use as directed CordyChi - Host Defense. A simply blend of just these two potent healers cordyceps and reishi. Start with one cap two to three times per day. Studies NCBI & National Library of Medicine, National Institute of Health FDA Warning: This information is for education only and is not meant to diagnose, treat or prescribe for any disease or medical condition |
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