By Sierra Bright Medicinal plants grown in your own gardens can reduce your dependence
on drugs, if not completely eliminate them. But growing random herbs
with medicinal properties doesn’t help. It is a common myth that all herbal preparations are safe by virtue
of being natural. This is far from true. A typical example is foxglove
or Digitalis purpurea. It has a positive effect on heart
function, with the cardiac drug digitalin extracted from the plant.
However, ingesting any part of the plant can induce nausea and vomiting,
and can even lead to total collapse from digitalis intoxication and
death. Accessibility is another issue, as in the case of rosy periwinkle Catharanthus roseus/Vinca rosea from
which anticancer drugs vinblastine and vincristine are obtained. You
don’t benefit from growing this plant unless you are an experienced
herbalist who can put it to good use. Otherwise, it will just remain a
display specimen in your garden. You need to grow plants whose goodness
you can access through simple preparations such as teas and infusions,
poultices and powders. Some medicinal plants are to be used for treating specific ailments,
while others have a generalized positive effect on our health when used
regularly. Many herbs belonging to the latter group have found their way
into our culinary scene as flavoring agents. Your medicinal garden
should ideally have such plants that have practical uses for the common
man besides being easy to grow. Here’s a practical guide to a few of the accessible herbs that have stood the test of time:
1. Aloe vera
Aloe vera is
well known as a skin-friendly plant. It is one medicinal plant people
really make use of, since it is generally safe and requires no
processing before use. It is a must-have in every garden whether you
grow it in pots or in the ground. Aloe vera plants grow well in a sunny location in warmer areas
where there is not much danger of killer frosts. Being a succulent,
this drought resistant plant requires very little care and thrives in
poor soil. It suckers freely, so you can start with just one or two
plants sourced from a reliable supplier. There are several aloes around;
not all of them are edible or have the medicinal properties attributed
to Aloe vera. The jelly-like, colorless pulp of mature leaves can be applied to
minor cuts and burns and to dry, inflamed, or damaged skin due to eczema
or other skin conditions. It is an excellent moisturizer with
anti-inflammatory and mild antimicrobial effect. The leaf pulp can be
eaten too. Regular use can prevent constipation and relieve other
digestive problems, including ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel
syndrome. Recommended Reading:10 Reasons Every Home Should Have An Aloe Vera Plant
2. Peppermint (Mentha × piperita)
This natural hybrid of spearmint and watermint is widely use in
dental hygiene products, mouth fresheners, soothing balms and candies.
Quite possibly the oldest medicinal herb to be used by man, there’s
evidence that peppermint has been used for thousands of years. Grow it
in a part of the garden where the plants are assured of water and give
it plenty of room to spread. Sip a tea made of a handful of peppermint leaves to calm stomach
upsets and relieve pain and discomfort due to gas. Carry a few sprigs of
peppermint when you travel. Sniffing on it every now and then will
prevent nausea and vomiting associated with motion sickness. The active ingredient menthol found in abundance in peppermint, as
well as in many other aromatic members of the mint family, has a cooling
effect on the skin. Make a poultice of the leaves and apply it on the
skin to relieve itching and burning resulting from skin allergies and
inflammatory conditions. It has mild analgesic action, and relieves headaches and muscle cramps.
3. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
This perennial herb with tiny, aromatic leaves is a great addition to
any medicinal herb collection. Thyme is easy to grow in a sunny
location and thrives between rocks and boulders, braving summer heat and
winter freezes. The characteristic scent of thyme comes from the
volatile oil containing thymol, which gets released at the slightest
touch. Many herbs contain this powerful antiseptic phenolic compound,
but thyme oil has more than 50% thymol content. Use an infusion of thyme as a gargle to get rid of bad breath and
mouth sores. It can help with tonsillitis and laryngitis. Crushed fresh
thyme applied on the neck is said to reduce throat infections. Inhaling
the vapors reduces nervous exhaustion. The most important use of thyme is to treat respiratory tract infections. Thyme extract is taken orally to relieve bronchitis,
chest congestion, asthma, and whooping cough. A teaspoonful of thyme
extract mixed with equal amount of honey can be given in divided doses
to young children.
4. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
Rosemary is
more of a woody shrub, but it deserves a place in every herb garden for
its medicinal and culinary uses. Although it doesn’t look anything like
other mint plants, it belongs to the same plant family. From the
suffix officinalis, it is clear that rosemary has been counted as
a medicinal plant from long ago, but in our medicinal garden, it is to
be used for general health and wellbeing, rather than for specific
problems. Long known as the herb of remembrance, the claim that rosemary enhances memory has
had a boost from recent research findings. The carnosic acid in the
herb has been shown to prevent brain damage and neurodegeneration of the
hippocampus induced by beta-amyloid peptides. These peptides are
implicated in Alzheimer’s disease. In separate studies Rosemary oil has been found to improve cognitive function and reduce brain aging. Its potential in cancer treatment also has been promising. Grow Rosemary in a pot or plant several in a line to form an aromatic
hedge in the garden. Use the leaves regularly in cooking and herbal
teas to derive maximum benefit. Recommended Reading:21 Magical Uses & Benefits For Rosemary Essential Oil
5. Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile)
No medicine chest is complete without chamomile flower heads. They can be made into a soothing tea that can calm a troubled mind as
well as a colicky baby. Its widespread use across many cultures and for
many ailments is proof enough for its safety and effectiveness. There’s more than one type of chamomile, but the one we want is the Roman chamomile Chamaemelum nobile. This
hairy plant has finely divided leaves and white daisy-like flowers with
bright yellow centers, but that description doesn’t help much in
telling it apart from German chamomile. That’s why scientific names are
important for identifying medicinal plants. When you grow chamomile, you can make a tea from fresh flower heads
or dry them for later use. Take a handful of flowers in a bowl and pour
boiling hot water over them. Allow to steep for 15-20 minutes and drain.
Have a cup of this soothing brew when you feel anxious or unsettled, or
before bedtime in case you have difficulty falling asleep. A tablespoonful or two should calm babies and young children having
colicky pain or stomach upsets. Use it as gargle to relieve mouth
ulcers. Bathe the skin affected with eczema several times a day with
cooled chamomile tea. Recommended Reading:14 Reasons You Should Have A Cup Of Chamomile Tea Right Now
6. Pot Marigold (Calendula officinalis)
Pot marigold with its yellow and orange flowers is a delightful
addition to any garden. Not very finicky about soil fertility or pH, it
can be grown easily from seeds and can be treated as an annual or
perennial depending on your growing zone. The edible flowers can be used to treat almost any problem related to skin. Use a poultice of the petals to relieve sunburn and to clear up acne and blemishes on
the skin. Use it as an antiseptic on cuts and bruises. It stops
bleeding and reduces inflammation when applied on nicks and cuts. Many
skin ointments contain pot marigold extract as the active ingredient. A tea made of the flowers is taken to get relief from varicose veins and to ease digestive problems.
7. Sage (Salvia officinalis)
Plants of the salvia family have a long history of being used medicinally, as is evident from their family name. Salvia officinalis is
the common sage that has slightly thick and elongated grey green leaves
used in cooking, and for good reason. It can improve appetite and
prevent flatulence. This plant has a hormone regulatory effect on women.
A tea of the leaves can relieve dysmenorrhea and symptoms associated
with premenstrual syndrome and menopause. Inhaling an infusion of sage
gives relief to respiratory problems, including asthma. It reduces
excessive sweating and salivation too. Sage is neuroprotective, and is used to treat Alzheimer’s, dementia, and depression.
8. Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia)
This herb is
worth growing for the delightful fragrance of its tiny flowers alone,
but it can be used therapeutically as a pick-me-up. Inhaling the
fragrance of the flowers is sufficient to get relief from headache and
depression. The essential oil extracted from the flowers has an
important place in aromatherapy. Add a handful of lavender flowers to the bathwater or place pouches
of dried flowers under the pillow to get relaxed sleep. Make the best of
the antiseptic and antibacterial properties of lavender by infusing the
flowers in water and using it to wash face and damaged skin. It can
clear acne and accelerate wound healing. Recommended Reading:20 Magical Ways To Use Your Bottle Of Lavender Oil
9. Echinacea (E. purpurea / E. angustifolia)
The purple coneflower Echinacea is
a stalwart in the native North American herbal medicine. It has an
immunostimulatory action that enables the body to fight bacterial and
viral infections. Commercial Echinacea products are in great demand
during the flu season. Regular users swear by their efficacy as
vehemently as conventional medical practitioners try to discredit them. Native Americans used the roots to treat wounds, insect bites, burns,
and even snake bites. Now flower buds are more commonly used as a cold
and flu remedy. Of the many different purple coneflowers native to North
America, E. purpurea and E. angustifolia are the two most
favored species. You can grow either of them in a sunny location in
your garden. These biennial plants flower only in the second season. Use fresh flower buds to make an infusion to prevent and treat cold
and flu. A tincture made with alcohol is considered more potent. It
involves steeping the flower buds or roots, or both, in pure,
concentrated alcohol for 4-6 weeks, and then filtering out the liquid. Recommended Reading:16 Reasons To Have A Cup Of Echinacea Tea This Winter
10. Comfrey (Symphytum officinale)
This is another vigorously growing herbaceous plant that has a weed
status today in most places. However, the roots and leaves of comfrey
are traditionally used to treat ligament injuries and broken bones,
earning it common names like boneset and knit bone. Other uses of the
leaf and root poultice include relief from arthritic pain and varicose
vein ulcers. Although comfrey extract has a history of being used internally to
treat excess menstrual flow, gastrointestinal problems and stomach
ulcers, only topical application is recommended today. The allantoin in
the plant can aid tissue repair and regeneration. Gargling with an
infusion of comfrey leaves helps relieve sore throat and gum disease.
11. Broadleaf plantain (Plantago major)
This plant is
considered a weed, but it has several medicinal properties including
antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and wound-healing ability. The fresh
leaves are mashed and applied as a poultice to wounds, insect bites and
skin sores for pain relief and to promote healing. The allantoin in the
plant is a cell growth promoter. Another bioactive compound aucubin is a
mild antibiotic, and the high mucilage content soothes the injured skin
and relieves pain. A tea brewed from fresh leaves is astringent, and helps control
diarrhea. The leaves are eaten by people suffering from gout since
aucubin increases uric acid excretion by the kidneys. Read Next: How To Make a Plantain Salve
12. Great Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)
This tall plant growing up to 2 feet high stands out anywhere it
grows. But if you offer it a place in your medicinal garden, you can
harvest the leaves and the flowers. They have been used for over 2,000
years to treat respiratory tract problems. Mullein tea made
with leaves or flowers is an excellent expectorant. It is used to
relieve cough associated with bronchitis and consumption. The mucilage
in the plant helps loosen the phlegm and the saponins help flush them
out. When the infection has affected the lungs, mullein leaves are
rolled up and smoked to relieve chest congestion. The roots are used to treat skin infections, including warts and
athlete’s foot. Powder the dried roots and apply it on the affected area
several times a day. Mullein flower tea is also effective in treating
warts. Note: All herbs should be used with caution because they
contain powerful bioactive compounds. Start with small quantities
initially to test your tolerance. Watch out for allergic reactions.
People who have ragweed allergy may have similar reactions to medicinal
plants belonging to that family. When you feel good with a recommended amount of a given herb, it
doesn’t necessarily mean that you will feel better with larger
quantities or a stronger brew. To derive maximum benefit out of the
herbs you grow, try to learn as much about them as you can. Rosemary Gladstar’s Medicinal Herbs Book is a great place to start. Source: Natural Living Ideas
Via: Nexus Illuminati
…and Creates a Distinct Network of Anti-Againg Genes!
By Kalee Brown Science is now catching up to the knowledge outlined in the Vedas,
Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, and other ancient texts. For approximately
5,000 years people have been practicing meditation, proving the positive
impact it can have on the body and mind. Science has now accepted that
meditation can have powerful effects on human health, as more research
is exposing these mind-blowing benefits. Some experienced meditators
have even been referred to as “superhumans” because of how their
practice has affected them (check out our article here). A study recently published in Translational Psychiatryproved just how beneficial meditation can be for human health, as the molecular signature of meditators was found to be significantly different from those who don’t meditate on a regular basis.
How Meditation Can Improve Your Cellular Health
A group of American researchers performed a study on
participants at a 5-day retreat offered regularly by Deepak Chopra’s
infamous Chopra Center for Wellbeing (Carlsbad,
CA, USA) at the vacation resort OMNI La Costa Resort and Spa.
Researchers invited women between the ages of 30 and 60 who did not have
experience meditating to participate in the study and then divided them
into two groups: those who would participate in the retreat (“novice
meditators”) and those who would simply stay at the resort
(“vacationers”). Researchers compared their results against each other
and also to those of women already enrolled in the retreat who were in
the same age bracket and meditated regularly (“regular meditators”). The
participants’ health was examined before and after five days of staying
at the resort and then maintenance assessments were completed one month
and 10 months later. Standard psychological measures were used to determine participants’
depression symptoms and perceived levels of stress, mindfulness, and
vitality. Participants also had their blood drawn on days one and
five of the study. For more information on specifics of the blood draw,
processing, biomarker assays, and RNA sequencing of blood samples,
click here. Although all three groups experienced significant improvements in
mental health, novice meditators showed much greater improvements in
regards to depression in comparison to the vacationers, especially at
the 10-month marker. It is clear from these findings that short-term
vacation effects improve well-being; however, it is evident that there
are long-term benefits from learning meditation as well. While on vacation, genes that are typically required for dealing with
stress, wound healing, and injury are down-regulated. Among the ones
that were down-regulated post retreat/vacation were MME and FOXO3,
both of which are referred to as stress-related genes. This study is
believed to be the first documentation that a stress reduction
intervention can decrease FOXO3 expression. Researchers also identified what they referred to as a “meditation
effect,” whereby the regular meditators were found to have a distinct
network of genes with cellular functions that may be associated
with anti-aging. Even though a vacation often benefits the expression of
gene networks in regards to well-being, the “vacation effect” cannot be
sustained throughout life because you cannot go on vacations all of the
time. In contrast, the “meditation effect” can actually be sustained if
you’re practicing meditation regularly, so you can continuously reap
the rewards. You can read the full study here.
More Studies Proving Meditation Can Better Your Body and Mind
A study conducted
by Harvard University determined that meditation rebuilds the
brain’s grey matter in only eight weeks. This incredible discovery was
made by taking magnetic resonance images (MRIs) of the 16 participants’
brains both two weeks before the study and after it was completed. Another Harvard study found
that meditation can even mitigate symptoms of Irritable Bowl Syndrome
(IBS) and improve gut health. The study showed that by inducing the
“relaxation response,” which is essentially the scientific term for
meditation, participants showed reduced symptoms of IBS as well as
decreased anxiety and overall better quality of life. You can read more about these two studies in our article here, and read how meditation drastically improved a CE team member’s IBS here. If you’re unfamiliar with meditation, keep an open mind and know that
it truly is a practice meant for everyone. There is no skill involved,
it is simply the act of silencing the mind and finding inner peace.
Remember, it is not about stopping thoughts from happening in the first
place; it is about letting them pass, without judgement or attachment. It is said that Buddha was once asked, “What have you gained from
meditation?” To which he responded, “Nothing! However, let me tell you
what I lost: anger, anxiety, depression, insecurity, fear of old age and
death.” You too can free yourself from these emotions and attachments. If
you’re looking for further guidance, you can check out the following
articles:
By Andrea Schulman Did you know that bedtime is an awesome opportunity to raise your vibration and to set yourself up for more positive manifestations? While we sleep we disconnect our consciousness from the physical world and instead we connect more deeply with our higher self. This connection helps us create with greater ease. There’s a reason why people tell you to “sleep on it” when you have a
big decision-in our dream state we gain clarity and understanding. We
are awesome creators from our sleeping state! In addition to helping us solve our problems and deliberately create,
sleep makes us feel good, boosts our immunity, and helps us heal from
injury and illness. So, whenever it’s possible, it’s a good idea to take
advantage of sleep. Here are 20 things you can do at bedtime to raise your vibration and become a better deliberate creator. Enjoy!
Bedtime DOs:
Do give big hugs to the people you love before bedtime, if you live with them.
After a rough day, do take a shower or bath before bedtime to wash off the stress and elevate your vibration before drifting off.
Do get some water to put on your nightstand. Sometimes at night we get thirsty, and we always feel better when we’re hydrated.
Do take a moment to snuggle into bed, and appreciate how comfortable your bedding and pajamas are.
Do spend a few moments appreciating what went well during the day.
Do ask a question of the universe before bed. We get lots of clarity from the dream state.
You could ask something like “what should I do about that problem at
work?” or “what kind of present would my best friend love for her
birthday?”
Do set your intention to enjoy the next day.
Do create a peaceful atmosphere in your bedroom. Peaceful places inspire peaceful feelings.
If you like to watch television before bedtime, do be mindful of the
programming you select. When we sleep, we often dwell on our last
thoughts of the day, so be sure to select programming that’s light and
makes you feel good.
Do close the blinds or invest in heavy curtains if you want to sleep
in the next day. The light of day is hard to ignore when it’s shining
on your face!
If you’ve got a few dollars to go shopping, do invest quality
bedding. It’s easier to enjoy your sleep when you are comfortable! Being
well-rested will help you manifest greater abundance, so comfy bedding is worth every penny.
Do select a soothing alarm for the morning. Awaken to pleasing music or ringtones to gently transition into the daytime.
Do choose to forgive and forget before going to bed. A fight that
isn’t resolved at night will just pick right back up in the morning. Why
tarnish your tomorrow over something that happened today?
Do invest in an eye mask and earplugs if you are a light sleeper or if your partner snores.
Do try out a sleep mediation or sleep hypnosis, especially if you could use a boost!
Do avoid social media before bedtime. There are a lot of things
running through your newsfeed, some of which may have the potential to
rattle your cage while you are wanting to relax.
Do take it easy if you find yourself wide awake. Instead of trying
to fall asleep, go along with the wakefulness without struggling. You
can tell yourself “I’m just going to relax and take this opportunity to
fantasize about pleasant things” and “when my body needs sleep it will
shut me down.” The less you struggle, the easier it is to unwind. After
all, if you’re going to be awake, you might as well be awake and happy!
Do choose to review your “to do list” in the morning instead of at night. You can’t get tomorrow’s work done today.
Do choose to go to sleep at
a reasonable time (whatever that means for you of course!). Sometimes
there are reasons we have to stay up extra late, but when you have the
opportunity to enjoy a good night’s rest, take advantage of it!
I hope you like these bedtime tips for raising your vibration and becoming a more deliberate creator!
If you have any other nighttime suggestions, feel free to comment below and share them with me. XO, Andrea Click here for more articles by Andrea Schulman! Andrea Schulman is a former high school psychology teacher and the creator of Raise Your Vibration Today,
which provides free and easy Law of Attraction techniques. She will be
available for group educational seminars and webinars starting in the
summer of 2015. Source: In5D
(The Mind Unleashed) As I lay there on a massage table, I began
drifting into a deep meditative state. Based on my education and
experience with meditation, I knew there was a predominance of theta
waves occurring in my brain. It was so peaceful, an almost dream-like
state, and I could feel the wonderful effects of endorphins being
released in my body. I had just met Brenda, the therapist, and really
didn’t know much about her. Just as a I felt myself drifting off to sleep, I heard “Andy, Andy,”
and then I heard “Andy’s sister.” Hearing this pulled me to a slightly
higher level of consciousness, which stopped me from falling asleep. I
let myself be pleasantly curious about what I was experiencing, and then
I heard it again. “Andy, Andy,” and “Andy’s sister.” This voice wasn’t
male or female; it was just there, but very adamant. I made a mental
note to ask Brenda about Andy once we were done, and then I drifted off
to sleep only to be awakened by the sound of my own snoring. After I got dressed, I met Brenda outside in the waiting room, and I
asked her “Do you know a guy named Andy?” Brenda said, “No, but my best
girl friend in Maryland is named Andy.” It kind of takes your breath
away when you have an experience like that, and then I said, “What’s
going on with Andy’s sister?” Brenda responded, “Her sister just entered
hospice with breast cancer.” What I just described is one of many nonlocal intuitive experiences
I’ve had in my life. Nonlocal intuition is an unexplained knowing that
defies logic and is not explained by pattern recognition or memory
retrieval. It’s one of the great mysteries in life that is so
unexplainable, professional skeptics weigh in by saying that the
possibility doesn’t even exist. I’m an advocate of healthy skepticism, which is a key part of the
scientific method. The truth is that the scientific method is limited by
the technology and methods through which it is applied. Just because we
don’t have scientific evidence for something, doesn’t mean it doesn’t
exist. A lot of skeptics sometimes forget that part of the equation in
their quest for truth through a lens of academic arrogance. As a physician board certified in Internal Medicine who graduated
with honors from medical school, I understand and appreciate the
scientific method. I also appreciate the great mysteries in life, and am
humble enough to admit the possibility something does exist even when I
don’t understand it. More important, when I do have an experience that
defies logic, I’m going to do my best to try and come up with a rational
explanation for how it might have occurred, however silly it may sound. When someone who is mentally sound has a personal experience that
defies logic, they know it happened because it was their experience. So
when I hear someone say that the parapsychological phenomenon of
nonlocal intuition doesn’t exist, I remind myself that they have either
never had the experience, or they had a nonlocal intuitive experience,
but the phenomenon is just not part of their belief system. It’s your choice what to believe, but if you take skepticism to the
point of cynicism about nonlocal intuition, it shuts you out of very
real experiences that have the potential to empower your life. After
all, having powerful intuition lets you become your own authority on
many levels. Nonlocal intuitive experiences happen every day to ordinary people.
Research suggests that you can improve your chances of having nonlocal
intuitive experiences by honing practices associated with mindfulness
and meditation. (McCraty, 2004) Science is finally proving what the
ancients taught over a thousand years ago by documenting clairvoyance as
described in the Yoga Sutras. The third book of the Yoga Sutras described siddhis, or
supernormal powers, that can be attained through meditation. These
powers, such as clairvoyance, are actually normal powers of every human,
and can be honed through various mind-body practices. Most people who have nonlocal intuitive experiences write them off as
coincidences, when in fact, those experiences involve simply tapping
into an energetic field of information that is available to us all. This
energetic field of information that permeates the entire universe is
called the unified field, and scientists are struggling to come up with a
mathematical model to prove its existence. The method for tapping into this energetic field of information
varies from individual to individual. Some people, such as legitimate
psychics, are naturally good at it. Other people have to work at honing
this skill, but everyone is capable of it. I don’t consider myself a
psychic, but I’ve had multiple experiences like this. If you want to sharpen your skill of tapping in, I suggest the following:
(1) First, truly believe this is possible. Belief produces
resonance, which facilitates an alignment of energies for an optimal
exchange of information to take place. (2) Know that you are an energetic being in a universe that is made up of energy, and that all energy contains information. (3) Eat healthy and exercise regularly as these practices support
the energies of your physical body. Food is energy, and the study of
epigenetics shows that the phytonutrients in food literally turn your
genes on and off to create wellness or disease. (4) Regularly do some type of mind-body practice, such as
mindfulness and meditation, as this helps you to focus your energies for
tapping in. When you practice mindfulness and meditation, you are
creating coherence in your body’s systems and training your
consciousness, which is energy, to align. Coherence is like when members
of an orchestra play in tune and at the same tempo. (5) Set the intention for your Higher Mind, also know as your Higher
Self, to align with the layers of consciousness contained in your
physical body. The study I cited showed that it is the consciousness of
your heart that initially receives the nonlocal intuitive information,
even before the consciousness of your brain. (6) Get really good at triggering your relaxation response, which is
the opposite of your stress response. Triggering your relaxation
response with any mind-body practice causes your autonomic nervous
system, your autopilot, to go into a state of balance. You can trigger
your relaxation response by simply belly breathing instead of chest
breathing. (7) Set an intention to receive nonlocal intuitive information when you do these practices. (8) And finally, practice, practice, practice:) Belief, intention, and trust are keys to being successful at this. You can do it! Sources: Mccraty
R, Atkinson M, Bradley RT. Electrophysiological evidence of intuition:
Part 2. A system-wide process?. J Altern Complement Med.
2004;10(2):325-36.
Dr. Keith Holden is
a physician who is board certified in Internal Medicine and trained in
Functional Medicine. He has a special interest in parapsychology,
mind-body medicine, and spirituality in medicine. His popular course on Udemy.com, “Power of the Mind in Health and Healing,” teaches how to use the power of your mind to heal your body and maximize your intuition.
By Claire Bernish For over 100 days in 2016, Costa Rica has generated all of its
electricity from hydro, wind, solar, biomass, and geothermal sources —
100 percent renewable energy. In fact, the small Latin American nation has gone at least 121 days without resorting to fossil fuels to power its electric grid — and plans to finish the year powered only by green energy. Considering the country’s astonishing record last year, perhaps the news isn’t surprising: For all of 2015, Costa Rica sourced 99 percent of its power from renewables — including a full 285 days 100 percent free from fossil fuels. As Inhabitatexplains:
“Costa Rica is able to take advantage of a multitude of
renewable energy sources because of its unique climate and terrain. Most
of the nation’s renewable energy comes from hydropower, due to its
large river system and heavy tropical rainfalls. Solar, wind, biomass,
and geothermal energy also play key roles.”
During the first three months of 2016 — despite crippling drought
conditions — Costa Rica still managed to generate 97 percent of its
energy without the help of polluting fossil fuel sources. According to an April article in the Tico Times, the country’s state-run Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE) “now considers fossil fuels a backup energy generation source.” Costa Ricans whose personal solar panels generate a surplus are able
to store the excess in the national grid under a program started in
March. Although the small nation certainly leads the fight to reduce fossil fuel energy generation, it by no means stands alone. Sweden draws half of its power from renewables, as the prime minister applauded the country’s attempt to become the “first fossil fuel-free” nation in the world, the Independentreported.
Denmark became the planet’s leader for energy sourced from wind — nearly 40 percent of the nation’s electricity came from its extensive wind turbine installations in 2014. Even Portugal managed to run for 107 straight days without using any fossil fuel-based sources earlier
this year. Coal and natural gas had provided the bulk of Portugal’s
energy until a push toward solar, wind, and hydro left non-renewable
sources in the dust. Of course, in unfortunate contrast to Costa Rica, Denmark, and many
others, the United States continues not only heavy reliance on fossil
fuels, but thwarting attempts by individuals and renewable energy
startups to move toward greener energy. In an act of astonishing hubris and greed, Wyoming’s state legislature decided earlier this month it, in fact, owns the wind —
a decision made so the state could tax startup renewable companies out
of existence to allay the ‘threat’ to fossil fuel giants. Nevada arbitrarily hiked its tax on solar power by 40 percent in
January — effectively quashing every effort by individuals and small
companies to break from dependence on fossil fuels. Worse, as The Free Thought Project reported, the sudden tax increase was applied retroactively — killing investments in the burgeoning industry.
“It will destroy the rooftop solar industry in one of the states with the most sunshine,” said SolarCity
CEO Lyndon Rive at the time. “There is so much wrong with the decision.
The one beneficiary of this decision would be NV Energy, whose monopoly
will have been protected.”
Wyoming and Nevada aren’t the only states to suppress the move toward
renewables, but they’re glaring examples of the U.S. government’s
hypocritical attitude about green energy. President Obama constantly feigns concern about the warming climate,
but the U.S. has not made major moves in support of clean energy —
instead opting to continue subsidies for fossil fuel corporations, while
proposing only negligible steps to breaking dependence on coal and
natural gas. Indeed, a recent report found
the United States managed to generate 16.9 percent of its energy from
renewable sources — amazing, considering the obstacles against green
energy, but paltry when compared with the effort the rest of the world
has put into renewables. Source: The Free Thought Project
(In5D) According to the numerous wisdom teachings, Lao Tzu, Edison, Gregg Braden, Carl Jung,
Joseph Campbell, the Buddha, Ken Wilber, Louis Hay, the Dalai Lama,
Paramahansa Yogananda, Dr. Wayne Dyer, and a thousand other experts,
both ancient and modern, our inner world affects the outer world. This
is the great secret that every other culture knows except the West –
Egypt, Bolivia, Tibet, Polynesia, China, Japan, Peru, villages in the
Andes mountains, etc. – until now. Our past scientific assumptions have been erroneous more than once.
The first wrong assumption is that the space around us is empty. It
isn’t. It is full of a living essence, which we are just beginning to
understand. This essence is like a conduit that is affected by our
thoughts. Nuns and Monks know this. That is what they use prayer and
meditation for. It charges thought to interact with this essence. We
call it miracles, but it is getting in touch with this conduit – this
empty space, which carries our mental frequencies out into the field of
possibility. The second wrong assumption is that our external
circumstances just happen. They don’t. We create them. Like oscillations
of a bowed string, the notes we play do matter. You’ve been hearing it everywhere. Your vibration, or the pattern of
your thoughts, attitudes and actions, is what creates your reality. If
you want to change what you experience then you need to change your
vibration. There are a million ways to do this but here are just a few: There is a learning curve. You can’t give up the first time you try
to change your thoughts, and thus your vibration. You have to practice
it – over and over again. So take out a journal and write your new
thoughts – the ones which reflect your experiences as you would like to
see them happen, not necessarily that which your current vibration is
creating. There are thousands of neurons, which are recruited to
physically write down a thought, instead of just typing it into a
computer screen. Find something of beauty and just appreciate it. It can be a flower
growing from a crack in the sidewalk. It can be the glint in a lover’s
eyes. It can be your child’s smile, or a newly organized shelf of books.
Just one thing. That’s all you need. Make a list of all that you are grateful for. The reason gratitude
journals and thankfulness lists work is because, just like cognitive
behavioral training, you can make neuro-pharmacalogical and
neuro-biological changes with a shift in your focus on gratitude. Start
with a few things: I can take a breath. I am here, now. I have at least
one friend. I am able to change myself with my own will. Then expand to
make your list your own. Meditate. Think of nothing. This is more than likely a more neutral and therefore more positive place to take your vibration. Related: What to do BEFORE You Meditate Do something for someone else. Giving to someone
else shifts your thinking from “I don’t have enough, to I have more than
enough to give to others.” Abundance is a high vibration. Change your DNA. It has a vibration too. There are
sound frequencies which when listened to frequently, shift your
vibration with 528 hz. There are recordings all over the internet. Listen to music you love. Music shifts your frequency by making you happy. Stop complaining and gossiping. Are the things you are talking about bringing you more of what you want? Stop complaining, and start finding ways to rejoice. Move. Exercise. Get active. Dance! Not only does
movement change your perspective, it also creates endorphins which help
you to feel happy. The happier you feel, the more you will draw happy
experiences to yourself because you are operating at a different
frequency. Do something a little crazy. Have you always wanted
to go sky-diving? How about learning to dance? Have you always wanted to
try public speaking – find an open mic night and go for it. You
probably feel like you have nothing to lose – so dive right in. Just
doing something new rewires your brain.
Listen to the ancient chants from Buddhist and Gregorian monks. They are designed to shift your frequency. Not sure where you are vibrating? Just check in. How do you feel right now? Just observe it and then you can change it. Perception starts with awareness. Do mental reps. Say to yourself 100 times a day. I
am happy or I am prosperous, or I am unafraid of change. You may not
believe it yet, but with practice you will. Your 100 repetitions could
just be, I can change my mind.
Do Yoga, Reiki, or Qigong or another of the martial arts. All these practices aim at shifting your mental vibration and raising your Qi. Realize that you have more control over your life than you thought.
You are not a victim to circumstance, past, family upbringing, trauma,
or anything else. You can change your life in an instant. Just realize
this. In many wisdom traditions this is called “total responsibility.”
No one is responsible for how you feel right now but you. It isn’t a
curse. It’s a blessing because it gives you your power back. Breathe. Just sit and try to make your breath
longer, fuller, and more relaxed. It has a direct affect on your nervous
system and helps to calm you down. A calm vibration is a high
vibration. Drink energy charged water. Dr. Masaru Emoto made
this practice mainstream with his pictures in Messages from water. But
it is also a practice from Chinese healers from ancient lineages. You
can hold your water with the thumbs and middle fingers touching on
either side of the bottle (heart Mudra) and send the water love. Then
drink it. Practice Mudra. Mudras are ancient hand gestures
that redirect energy, or prana, back into the body in much the same way
that light is refracted/reflected from a cliff face or glacial wall. By
learning specific ways in which to hold your fingers, you can direct
positive energy into your body. Jump up and down. It is said that the simple action
of jumping excites the cells in the body and makes them healthier. Have
some fun on a trampoline. Practice Ho’oponopono. The ancient Hawaiians
believed that sadness, depression and dis-ease only occurred when we
perceived ourselves as separate from the Oneness, the Divine. One of the
practice’s main themes is forgiveness. Forgive yourself or someone else
and raise your vibration. Hug someone. The American Psychosomatic Society
published a study saying that just 10 minutes of positive physical
contact with another human being can greatly reduce stress.
Vibration…raised.
Christina Sarich is a musician, yogi,
humanitarian and freelance writer who channels many hours of studying
Lao Tzu, Paramahansa Yogananda, Rob Brezny, Miles Davis, and Tom Robbins
into interesting tidbits to help you Wake up Your Sleepy Little Head,
and *See the Big Picture*. Her blog is Yoga for the New World . Her latest book is Pharma Sutra: Healing The Body And Mind Through The Art Of Yoga.
Summary By Shem El-Jamal In the recent past, there have been a number of headlines that have
revealed much more than the typical song and dance of the mainstream. In
contrast, these headlines have shown the most blatantly descriptive
evidence that the common media monotony is no longer the order of the
day.
There have been a number of these blatant signs in recent media
publications which show that something has most definitely changed
behind the scenes. One of these changes comes in the form of buzz-words
which seem to hint at the reality of E.T. life. When these news
publications refer to off-world locations they may use words such as
“structure,” “lights,” or “second Earth” in describing features of
planetary bodies. Wisdom Teachings with David Wilcock – NASA’s Quiet Disclosure Part 2
Within this collection of words, it seems that very few hold more
significance than the word “pyramid.” I would imagine that not many of
us would have ever thought that a mainstream media source would even
think to claim such a structure existed off planet. Yet they did, and
there was much more to the story. This subject was one of many which
this episode of Wisdom Teachings showcased.
The discussion started out with a review of the subject of Niara
Terela Isley, who is a former airman in the United States Air Force and
whistleblower on the reality of military abductions. Ms. Isley was the
unfortunate test subject of one of the SSP faction known as the Dark
Fleet—a group said to have originally been initiated by the Nazi
breakaway group that colonized the moon after the Second World War.
One particular detail within this discussion was helpful in defining
both the past and the current situations we see progressing out in space
and here on the Earth’s surface. We have heard throughout the Cosmic Disclosure series
of the various E.T. groups currently residing in our solar system. We
have learned that the Draco Reptilian group covertly manipulates much of
the Dark Fleet as well as the as various cabal-controlled governments
here on the surface. However, these Draco are not actually in control. Wisdom Teachings with David Wilcock – Draco Moon Base – Discussing Solar Systemic Changes, Military Abduction, and More In past episodes of both Wisdom Teachings and the Cosmic Disclosure series,
it has been discussed how long ago, the Draco Reptilians actually gave
up their free will to an A.I. control structure in exchange for a number
of benefits. From that point on, the Draco were subject to the will of
this A.I. which sought to conquer the galaxy and take over as many star
systems as possible. These Draco Reptilians initially seduced the Nazis into a partnership
and have been manipulating operations in our solar system to their own
advantage. This also includes the A.I. controlled Greys. These Greys are
actually a form of android, or PLF (programmable life form) which serve
as the medical staff of the Dark Fleet at the Reptilian lunar base.
This is said to be the reason why these Greys are reported by abductees
to be present during the painful medical procedures they describe.
Along with this recap, Wilcock made the announcement that those at
Gaia were working toward bringing Niara Isley in as a guest on the Cosmic Disclosure set
and to give her testimony first hand. In my view, this would prove to
be an extremely interesting conversation. Though this is still in the
works, we may be able to see this interview in the near future.
Old “Ghosts” Return
The first topic of discussion revealed some telling details on the
current financial situation here in the United States. The article of
focus gave a fairly descriptive explanation of this financial climate.
However, the most telling message within it is not necessarily overt in
nature. This message is more subtle. The article mentions the concept of
the “ghost of 1937”, but what does this actually mean? Wisdom Teachings with David Wilcock – Business not as Usual – Examining Clear Signs of Progress toward Planetary Liberation In the previous episode, it was discussed how at one point the
Federal Reserve had resorted to freezing the debt ceiling while
continuing to print worthless money behind the scenes. This appeared to
be a wanton act of fraud and would have been grounds for arrest if anyone else attempted it. However for the Fed, this crime simply represented business as usual. In light of this fraud, it becomes clear that the financial system is bankrupt.
Moreover, this fraudulent financial system is proving to large a degree
to be a significant liability as opposed to an asset, and not just in
the figurative sense. Here is CNBC with the article of interest.
In trying to steer the economy of 2015, the Federal
Reserve is fighting the foreboding spirit of 1937. Wall Street
strategists, in fact, are worried that the U.S. central bank is so
cautious over not making the mistakes of a long-ago ancestor that it may
miss a solid opportunity to normalize monetary policy after seven years
of decidedly abnormal times. “Many policymakers and market observers assert that the risk of the
Fed raising rates too early exceeds that of moving too late. This is the
specter of 1937, when the Fed raised rates prematurely and exacerbated
the Great Depression,” Michael Arone, managing director and chief
investment strategist at State Street Global Advisors, said in an
analysis for clients titled “Why the Federal Reserve Needs to Bury the
Ghost of 1937.” Most investors assume the prevailing lower-for-longer consensus is
bullish for both equities and bonds,” he added. However, Arone said his
“view is that a tardy Fed has a good chance of proving bearish for bonds
and, longer term, for equities as well.” The Fed’s Open Market Committee gathers this week at a meeting that
only a few months ago was expected to include the first rate increase in
nine years. However, slower-than-expected economic growth has taken
some of the urgency off the expected tightening. Now, traders at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange aren’t pricing in a
hike until December. While Arone said he doesn’t think the Fed should
move now, he believes the risks of waiting too long outweigh those of
tightening too soon. “Risks in this environment are growing, not shrinking,” he said. “The
longer the Fed stays on this path, the more aggressively it may have to
tighten and the crueler the asset price adjustment will be when it
finally comes.” What’s causing much of the consternation is fear that, like 1937, a
desire to avoid bubbles and normalize rates will come too soon and
plunge the economy back into a slump. The Fed took its short-term rates
target down to zero amid the financial crisis and the Great Recession,
and has been there since late 2008. http://www.cnbc.com/2015/06/15/the-federal-reserves-worst-nightmare-the-ghost-of-1937.html
As Wilcock explains, this article is a subtle way of both stating
that the financial game is over, but that officials are busy looking for
a solution. More specifically, these officials are looking for a
self-serving solution that will continue the global game of monopoly
that we loosely term “economics.” Wilcock gives special attention to one
particular statement in this discussion. That is the statement which
referred to the Fed’s efforts stating, “…it may miss a solid opportunity
to normalize monetary policy after seven years of decidedly abnormal
times.” For some, this statement may pass as an acceptable string of
euphemisms. However, in essence, it seems to communicate the same
message we have been hearing. Zero Hedge – Yes, The US Government Really Is Bankrupt It has been discussed in previous episodes how the economic crash of
2008 left a significant hole in the world economy, specifically in that
of America. Ever since that time the corporate media has done everything
possible in attempt to communicate the concept of an “economic
recovery.” However, as David Wilcock states, there is no recovery. What
has been termed a “recovery” is actually nothing more than the
continuation of the printing of worthless paper for the purpose of
maintaining the illusion of recovery and success, and as it turns out,
the use of the idea of a “ghost” in the above article is meant to scare
the public into continuing the financial game that ended in 2008… Continue Reading →Source: Discerning the Mystery Featured Image: BlueRogueVyse
The whole Cabal enterprise is collapsing under the weight of
disclosure. The complexity of the world’s financial systems has been
crucial for maintaining control over the whole of humanity. And, as
David Wilcock reveals from the past year of disclosures, these
mechanisms of financial control are beginning to falter. What’s more, is
NASA’s reports of a pyramid on Ceres and life-favorable conditions on
Titan, Europa and Enceladus may be opening the door for full disclosure
of the prevalence of life throughout the cosmos. This presentation was
originally webcast August 29, 2016. Watch this Episode →
(Body Mind Soul Spirit) Many call it Japanese Water Therapy. Not only
is it insanely simple, but scientific studies have provided information
strongly suggesting that it can indeed work. 17 years ago, Dr. Fereydoon Batmanghelidj was serving a jail sentence
as a political prisoner in Iran. Being a doctor, the thing he knew best
was how to treat, ease, and cure illnesses. However, Dr. Batmanghelidj did not have access to professional workstations, tools, and medicines, except for one. Water. During his sentence, it was reported that Dr. Batmanghelidj had
successfully treated 3,000 inmates suffering from peptic ulcers. Since
then, the doc has gotten out of jail and has dedicated his career to
studying the harmful effects of dehydration. The discoveries that
followed helped thousands of people restore their health. So what kind of health benefits can water provide? Water has been proven to help prevent arthritis, back pain, angina, migraines, colitis, asthma, high blood pressure, and lowers cholesterol. The water treatment method is as follows: 1. Right after waking up in the morning, drink 640ml (about 4 glasses) of fluoride-free water. If you’re drinking water from a faucet, chances are it’s inevitable. However, scientists have recently discovered a natural de-fluoridation method using holy basil herbs. Other options are distilled water (make sure to add minerals back into the water, including some baking soda for alkalinity)
and reverse osmosis. Caution should be taken, as drinking too much
water can indeed kill you. If you feel you can’t drink a whole 4 glasses
in the morning, starting lower and tapering up to 4 never put anybody
to shame. This is the most crucial step, since it’s most likely you
didn’t eat anything for more than 8 – 12 hours. This is what many would
call an ‘empty stomach’. 2. Brush and clean your teeth and mouth without eating or drinking for 45 minutes. After 45 minutes has gone by, you’re free to eat and drink as you please.
3. Drink a cup of water half an hour before the meal. Do not eat or drink anything for 2 hours after each meal. 4. Feel your health start to improve. According to the Japanese Medical Society, this treatment would take 10 days to treat constipation, 10 days to treat some gastric issues, and 30 days to treat high blood pressure. The truth is here is water is
not a miracle cure. It is however a very vital part to a person’s
physical health and well-being. Simply put, taking care of your body,
keeping it hydrated and active, can work wonders for your health.
Dehydration isn’t as uncommon as some people might think and it comes in
many forms. Dehydration doesn’t necessarily mean you’re feeling
lightheaded and thirsty. Dehydration simply means the body isn’t getting
the water it needs to run to its fullest. Take care of yourselves, friends. Be safe and have a glass or 4 of water. Sources:watercure.comundergroundhealthreporter.comquantumbalancing.com via MassReport Source: Body Mind Soul Spirit
(Higher Perspective) I’ve been out of school for almost a decade now,
but I remember how stressful it was. Not just in high school, but all
the way back to kindergarden. So much is expected of our young people,
even at the age of six. Not only are there academic stresses, but you
have all of the tough stuff that comes with young people socializing.
Bullies, the desire to live up to expectations, and fitting in. But
meditation can help improve the school experience. Why?
1. Meditation reduces stress.
Stress is a huge problem for children. Not only is it unhealthy and
horrible to deal with, but it hinders their ability to learn. They can’t
focus well. They don’t do as well on tests. Stress in children leads to
violence too. But meditation is well known to curb stress.
2. Meditation increases a child’s focus.
As I said before, meditation reduces stress which helps improve
focus. Not only that, but meditation is about focusing. You often focus
on a certain thought or your breath.
3. Meditation increases a child’s empathy.
Meditation is well known to improve empathy for others, which can be
really important for kids. Meditation can help prevent bullies from
becoming bullies in the first place. They understand better that their
actions harm others.
4. Meditation calms kids down.
If you’ve ever been a parent or teacher, you know that when kids are
calm, their more optimistic and focus better. Calmness leads to a better
academic experience.
5. Meditation makes you happy.
Kids are meant to be happy. Mindful meditation has been used for
centuries to improve your outlook on life. When kids are happy, they do
better at everything. Source: Higher Perspective
.
. Other options are distilled water (make sure to add minerals back into the 
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