This is an excellent liver cleanse recipe for springtime to keep the liver in optimal health!   It’s supercharged with potent cleansing and antioxidant benefit/ ingredients. The main ones are in bold to highlight the essentials. I would recommend doing this over a weekend, and in the mornings. It is particularly effective if you have undertaken some light exercise such as gentle yoga,walking or jogging prior to the liver cleanse as this helps to get the toxins moving out of the body and invigorates the lymph system. After the juice I would also recommend some breathing exercises to help the lymph flow on its way!

Serves 2

2 large grapefruits

4 lemons

300ml of distilled water (or filtered)

2 tablespoons of cold pressed flax oil

1 teaspoon of acidophilus

1-2 cloves of fresh garlic

2 inches of fresh root ginger

Optional: a dash of cayenne pepper!

Directions

Squeeze the juice of the grapefruit and lemon into a blender

Next, grate the garlic and the ginger, and then using a garlic press, squeeze this into the juice

Now add the water, flax oil and acidophilus powder and blend for 30 seconds

Add more ginger/garlic to taste

This juice contains all of the most potent liver cleansing ingredients, and gives your liver a gentle flush and the opportunity to heal itself. There are no side effects to this drink, apart from a bit of garlic-breath for a while. However, the grapefruit removes most of the odor.

Happy Cleansing,

Claudia ~

Ah, spring, nature’s birthing season- a season of regeneration and renewal! For most it happily brings us out from the more introspective time of winter with a sense of  new life and spark all around. However, for some may be feeling a bit more reluctant to come out of hibernation. Nature makes it look smooth and easy to transition  but for us humans it’s not as easy to transition gracefully from one season to the next—especially from winter to spring. Introducing in more cleansing dietary and exercise suggestions into your life  can help you weather this seasonal transition smoothly and emerge feeling transformed and ready to get your spring on.

Spring is the perfect time for cleansing and rejuvenation for overall health and well-being.  According to the philosophy of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Spring  is the time when your liver and its complimentary organ the gallbladder is particularly activated.  This would be the perfect time to get Qi (energy) flowing and moving. The liver is responsible for the smooth flow of Qi, among a million other functions, throughout the body. The liver helps to detoxify the body and when detoxification in the body goes into high gear, it can lead to both physical symptoms (digestive issues, skin issues, fatigue) and emotional symptoms (anger & sadness). When the liver functions smoothly, physical and emotional activity throughout the body also runs smoothly. Essentially, it stores and distributes nourishment for the entire body. Here are some great ways to support your body and mind to release that which it needs to release and flourish with the season.

Springtime Renewal:

Cleansing is a great way to detoxify yourself and clear out toxins from your system and get Qi flowing! It can help with anything from your complexion to just losing a bit of excess weight. This is the perfect way to get in tune with your body and really get back to basics. It forces you to give up the vices that you take for granted, break your bad eating habits and start again from the beginning. A good cleanse gives you clarity on what your body really needs, not craves. This process normally  induces changes in your shape, energy and attitude.

• Cleansing- Cleansing the body means to get rid of excess waste. This is done via resting from foods and drinking juices of fruits and vegetables and/ or water only for a period of time.  Springtime Liver Cleanse Recipe - a great one that is very simple to try. If this would be your first time embarking on a cleanse please consult a professional.
• Fasting-Fasting has been used throughout history for many reasons. It’s actually an instinctive response to many illnesses, colds, the flu and intestinal problems. (Animals do this often) This has also been employed for greater religious  and spiritual awareness.
• Juice Fast: A juice fast is great way to nurture your body, rebuild your immune system and restore yourself to a healthy way of living.Raw fruit and vegetable juice contains many cleansing elements such as minerals, vitamins, enzymes and antioxidants to heal and detoxify the body safely. Little energy is used by your digestive system during the cleanse, allowing the body to focus on rebuilding, renewing and healing. You might be surprised by how much energy you have.
• Colon Hydrotherapy- Colonics are performed to remove accumulated waste from the colon. Proponents of colon hydrotherapy believe that fecal matter can accumulate and harden in the colon. This buildup of fecal matter may prevent the absorption of water and nutrients, lead to constipation, allow harmful colon bacteria and yeast to grow. Lack of fiber, excess sugar, and a diet high in red meat are believed to contribute to the problem. Health professionals are divided over the use of colonics. The majority of conventional health practitioners do not feel colonics can improve overall health. I’ve listed this because I believe for some it can be useful.

Springtime Diet:

Your body’s most important energy source and fuel-FOOD. The way you eat is a significant part of a healthy diet. Eat with the seasons and eat more natural, or whole foods. If you eat properly and balance your intake with regular elimination and exercise, you will experience optimal health.

• Eat Your Greens- Consider eating more greens including dandelion, parsley, kale and chard. Steaming beet greens is also detoxifying and great for digestion. Chlorophyll-rich leafy greens have the new, active, ascending nature of spring within them to help detoxify and de-stagnate our bodies in this season of renewal.  On an emotional level, dark green leafy vegetables have both a grounding quality and a “releasing” property—calming an edgy-irritable system and helping us let go of sluggish, stuck, negative energy.* Avoid Dandelion if you suffer from Seasonal Allergies.

Greens for Liver-Gallbladder Stimulation and Health: Great Greens Recipe Book- Greens Glorious Greens by Jonathan Albi and Catherine Walthers

• Arugula
• Radicchio
• Collards
• Kale
• Endive
• Escarole
• Spinach
• Parsley
• Watercress
• Red or green mustard greens
• Dandelion greens
• Nettles

• Eat Whole Foods-Eat simple, natural foods that are close to the source. The simpler, less processed food we eat, the better for us. Eat foods that are grown seasonally and locally.They have the most vital energy, nutrients and vitamins.

• Juicing-is the key to radiant skin and health. Also referred to as cellular cleansing, juicing is preparing and drinking fruit and vegetable juices. The many health benefits of juicing far exceed those of eating solid fruits and vegetables. At the most basic level, juicing gives us the opportunity to add far more vegetables to our daily diet. Juicing allows us to up the amount of raw food we consume which gives the body energy and boosts the immune system and the body’s cleansing process. Green juices contain lots of chlorophyll which is significantly effective in detoxifying our bodies. Chlorophyll can help make our bodies strong bydetoxifying the liver. This detoxification will purify and help to rebuild our blood cells, remove mold, parasites and myco/exotoxins from the body. Many studies have shown that green juices containing chlorophyll can help prevent and remove cancer cells.
• Herbs: Herbs are especially valuable for spring use. You can make wonderful spring tonics made from *Dandelion, Peppermint and Milk Thistle( helps to support and disinfect the liver) or take as a supplement or tinctures.
• Water: Keeping fluids running through your system can flush away toxins. Try adding fresh lemon juice to the water to detoxify.
• Foods for Seasonal Allergies:

1. Ginger: Ginger is a natural antihistamine and decongestant. It may provide some relief from allergy symptoms by dilating constricted bronchial tubes.
2. Apples: Some foods contain the flavonoid quercetin that can cross-react with tree pollen. Quercetin can reduce allergic reactions by having an antihistamine effect. It also decreases inflammation. Quercetin occurs naturally in certain foods, such as apples (with the skin on), berries, red grapes, red onions, capers, and black tea.
3. Carrots: Carotenoids are a family of plant pigments that include beta-carotene. A lack of carotenoids in the diet is thought to promote inflammation in your airways. Good sources of carotenoids include apricots, carrots, pumpkin, sweet potato, spinach, kale, butternut squash, and collard greens.
4. Omega-3: Omega-3 essential fatty acids can counter the formation of chemicals that cause inflammation of the air passages. Good natural sources include flaxseed oil and salmon and sardines.
5. Bee Pollen: Bee Pollen is rich in proteins, enzymes and many vitamins; it is known as one of the “Super Foods” because of its high nutritional content. Bee Pollen has been mentioned throughout history as a highly prized food. It is used for stress, allergies, fatigue, building the immune system and other conditions and has an antimicrobial effect in the body. *If you suspect an allergy to Bee Pollen, try a very small amount first and watch for any reactions.

Exercise:

Spring Clean your exercise routine and clear out your body and mind of toxins.

• Exercise and sweat regularly to help with liver detoxification.
• Yoga poses that combine twists literally  “squeeze and soak” the abdominal organs. Yoga twists are the most important poses to aid the body in detoxification. Twists stimulate digestion and facilitate the elimination of impurities and waste products from the body. Circulation of blood and of lymph is also promoted. The abdominal organs are squeezed during twists, stimulating the kidneys and liver, and forcing out blood filled with metabolic by-products and toxins. When the twists are released, then fresh, clean blood enters these organs, bathing the cells in nutrients and oxygen. Twists have a cleansing, refreshing effect on the abdominal organs and the associated glands.

Skin -  If you are experiencing rashes and unusual breakouts  spring may be the culprit. All of these  tips and guidelines will aid the skin is staying healthy with the changes in season. It may be time to transition  your skincare regimen and get in for a seasonal facial!

SPRING IN-BALANCE

Beginnings, cleaning the body and home, elimination, exercise,garden,greens,sprouts,creativity,enthusiasm.

SPRING IMBLANCE

Excess, congestion,laziness,weeds,drugs,overeating, same old stuff.

Stay healthy and flourish with the change in season -this means keeping the liver and gallbladder happy. Pay attention to your nutrition and  exercise habits and your skin will benefit too. Keep creating and enjoy the season of new growth and  beginnings!

Until next time

Claudia

Bruce Lee a famous baby dragon. His Chinese name literally translates to Li Little Dragon.

Happy Chinese New Year-The Year of the Dragon

Will this year be fierce, full of surprises, magnificent or menacing? Will it delight, bewilder or intimidate you-just like a dragon? It’s all in your eyes!

The Chinese are obsessed with the dragon and highly revered in their culture. It is the only figure in the Chinese zodiac, that is a fantasy creature. One legend about the twelve-year zodiac/New Year cycle holds that Buddha summoned the world’s animals to him, and the first twelve that heeded the call were given the honor of having a year dedicated to their species; the order of the zodiac signs corresponds to how quickly each respective creature arrived. In our Western culture dragons have come to connote evil, synonymous almost with the serpent in terms of their capacity for malice. Not so in Chinese mythology. There, the dragon is associated with vibrant health, luck, regal bearing and personal achievement, as well as increased opportunity, optimism, imperial power and intelligence. It swims into the ocean and flies above the clouds to spread its rain-making power to ensure a prosperous Year of the Dragon on earth.

Meaning of the legend:

The Chinese people from the beginning of time had shown a remarkable ability to understand the intricate working of nature. The relationship between rain and oceanic wind pattern. They know that water vapor were originated from the sea and endowed the dragon with rain making ability. Chinese dragon is benevolent in their spirit and benefit the people—contrasting to the western myth of a cold lecherous lizard-like dragon who captures virgin and hog treasure perhaps it is a religious backlash in the west toward the Older religious practice of the Serpent Power, as in Kundalini of the Hindu Yoga. It also reflected the difference attitude between East and West toward sexual energy and impulses—the dragon symbolizes fertility and life, just like the snake in the biblical story of Eden.

Chinese Medicine & Your Health:

This is the time to sweep away past resentments and bad luck, and to manifest good fortune and wellbeing for the year to come. Traditional Chinese Medicine with it’s beauty and simplicity  can help us do the same for our bodies, by not only addressing injury and disease, but also preparing and protecting our bodies for long-term wellbeing.

Changes brought by each new season correlate with the Chinese Five Element theory. Each Element is important for specific body organs, which can become especially vulnerable with each new season. According the Chinese Five Element Theory, Winter is related to the  element of water. In this season this element is the most dominant. Winter’s power is deep in *yin. It is a time to conserve energy and resources and not be wasteful with your active, outward *yang energy. You need special care in the form of nutrition, warmth and rest. The bladder and kidneys, which deal with the body’s water, are the organs associated with winter and it’s element, both of which process the most *yin element, Water.

To evaluate the health of the kidneys, examining the overall color, clarity and tone of the skin is helpful. Besides the kidneys and bladder the skin is our largest organ of elimination. When the kidneys are clearing toxins poorly or have too much to handle, the skin may have to work harder to help clear these wastes. This is when skin rashes and breakouts can occur. To strengthen the water energy and keep these organs and body in balance it’s important to keep warm. A great way to  do this is with the proper winter diet.

Nutrition:

• If one is on a high raw or 100% raw food diet, add spices such as garlic,ginger to juices and cinnamon to foods. Gently warm vegetable or miso soups and eat plenty of well-blended food, as blended meals are easier to digest. Fresh cranberries make a nice addition to juices or purees this time of year while protecting the bladder and kidneys from infection.
• Eat more root vegetables during the winter such as parsnips, carrots, turnips, beets to fortify your immune system.These winter vegetables are naturally at their peak in this season. Not only do they help keep your body warm, but they are also rich in anti-oxidants.
• Cooked Whole Grains make an excellent staple in the winter diet. These complex carbs burn well in the body as fuel and are good for the intestines and for elimination. Azuki beans and black beans are beneficial for the kidneys. Millet is also good choice for balancing water energy this time of year.

• Ocean Food such as, ocean (salt water) fish, low in fats with high amounts of protein, minerals and vitamins, Ocean seaweeds like kelp, dulse, nori and hijiki are high protein vegetables, high in Vitamin E & A. Rich in calcium, potassium, iron, iodine, and other minerals. The nourish the endocrine system, especially the thyroid and adrenal glands.
• Drinking plenty of liquids is key to blood and lymphatic circulation. It is also essential for cleansing the body through the kidneys and bladder.
• Adding Herbs during the winter can be very cleansing for the body and blood as well as strengthening specific systems.  Examples: Burdock root good for the lungs and mucous linings, marshmallow root soothing irritations or inflammations in the kidney and bladder. Ginger Root another good heater to help with circulation and increase the Fire Element. Flaxseed & Nettle to name a few more.

Wellness:

• Acupuncture: Winter is a wonderful time of year to get acupuncture, especially if you notice any of symptoms or imbalance  in the skin and body. I highly recommend my acupuncturist- Paulette Pettorino at www.spiritcenteracupuncture.com
• Exercise : Get plenty of rest but exercising  is still very important, perhaps trying Yoga or Tai Chi. Creating new habits will replace older ones. These disciplines will help you gain balance, strength, flexibility and a wonderful vitality.
• Facial and Massage: Lymphatic Drainage and the use of essential oils can be helpful to support you during the winter.

Winter is a cold and contractive time, but with my help and recommendations you can bring light and balance back into the long dark season. After the excess of the holiday season, we relish a little down time to cleanse and support, nurture and nourish the kidneys this winter season. As we enter what is believed to be the most auspicious year in the twelve-year Chinese zodiac cycle, I look forward to it with joy and optimism, as I continue my path to personal and professional success. Hopefully, the soaring and awe-inspiring dragon and it’s rainmaking ability can disperse the shower of power unto you in the Year of the Dragon.

Winter: in-Balance

keep warm, stay quiet, sleep well, be at home, look within, preserving-giving

Winter: imbalance

overactive,late nights and parties,lack of rest and sleep, dissipation, frustration, hoarding

Love & Light,

Claudia

***Yin yang is widely known as the two opposites that complete the whole. Yin is the shady place (North) (Feminine energy) while yang is the sunny place (South) (Male energy). Each relies on the other. The theory of yin yang helps define the inner workings of nature. It gives us a concise explanation of why there is night and day, light and dark, good and evil, right and wrong, male and female, etc. In other words, it creates a framework so chaos has order. Without this concept, life would seem sporadic and it would be difficult to see the patterns and logic behind the functions of life.

A clear, glowing complexion is at the top of every woman’s beauty wishlist. Right now, you probably have some of the gentlest yet effective skin care ingredients sitting around the kitchen. Foods are often the source of  skin care ingredients but have you ever considered just putting the raw version on? These inexpensive and natural beauty fixes straight from your kitchen will nourish and brighten the complexion. Want to here how to achieve this? Before I get to these special formulas a few tips and tricks to support for total radiance!

Beauty Tricks: First things first, if you want to  have beautiful glowing skin you must have efficient digestion and elimination. Both are central to health and beauty; good looks will not be possible without optimal functioning.The mouth is the first organ of digestion, being the first place where food enters the body.

• Upon waking in the morning, prepare a warm cup of water with the juice of half a lemon and a dash of cayenne pepper. Drinking lemon juice regularly will aid the bowels in eliminating waste more efficiently, control constipation thus creating a more alkaline state in the body and supplies nutrients that assist in detoxification and digestion.
• Use a tongue cleaner/scraper to clean any bacteria from your tongue. The tongue is the mirror for the condition of the intestines. It’s important to get rid of all the bacteria in your mouth before you eat anything.
• Chewing well and thoroughly to taste food is also essential to good digestion. Flossing and brush the teeth to keep them strong and clean. Avoid soft drinks, sucking candy or chewing sweet things that stick to your teeth . They not only erode the protective enamel of the teeth, but leech precious minerals out of the body.
• Gargle each day to clear mucous and soothe a sore throat using a pinch of salt and turmeric in a cup of warm water.

Everything you eat becomes a part of not only your inner being, but the outer fabric of your body as well. The healthier the foods are that you consume, the better your skin will look. Read this Halloween Post from last year and follow these food rules to keep your body and skin beautiful. You can wake up your taste buds and spark up the skin with herbs and spices. Cooking with herbs and spices will enhance the flavor of healthy foods without adding fat, salt, sugar, or calories. Most of the ones  I list  have anti-inflammatory properties as well as benefiting the digestive system.

• Ginger: Anti-inflammatory and great for digestion. Add fresh ginger to juices, teas, and pretty much any vegetable dish.
• Cumin: Supports healthy blood sugar levels and is an anti-oxidant. It’s a great mild spice for curry dishes.
• Cinnamon: An anti-oxidant and supports healthy blood sugar levels. Add to cooking and healthy sweet treats.
• Turmeric: Contains curcumin, plus it boats anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-oxidant properties. Great in curries, rice and veggie dishes.
• Rosemary: Is an anti-oxidant and has anti-cancer properties. Add to veggie pizzas and tomato-based vegetable dishes.
• Thyme: Is a natural antibacterial, rich source of polyphenols and flavonoids and improves digestion. Great added to any vegetarian meal.
• Cayenne: Destroys bacteria and enhances your immune system, improves blood flow, has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiseptic, diuretic, analgesic, expectorant, and diaphoretic properties. Add to soups, stir-fries, curries and rice veggie dishes.
• Garlic: Helps to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, control triglycerides (fats) and thin the blood, reducing clotting in high-risk heart patients. It also supports general immune function, has a natural antibacterial and antifungal action, acts as an antiseptic, fights infection and contains chemicals that help to prevent cancer. Great in pretty much anything you cook!

Kitchen Treats: Face packs made of variety fruits and vegetables improve circulation, soften and cleanse the entire face. The juices of the fruits and veggies tone and provide enzymes that help balance and cleanse the skin. You can mash or pulp the fresh fruit and vegetables, then add fruit pectin, clay or oat flour to firm the mixture so it does not slide off the face.Remove with cool water and a clean wash cloth after 20-30 minutes.

Dry & Mature Skin Pack- try apple, avocado, banana, carrot, pear, grape.

Oily & Blemished Skin Pack-try cucumber,lemon, pear, strawberry or tomato.

Quick Preps To Treat:

• A mixture of tomato juice and lemon juice and applied on the face regularly to get a soft, brightening and glowing skin. Or Tomato juice with garlic paste on a blemish works wonders!!
• Applying mint juice and basil leaves  can help in brightening stains from the skin .
• Lemon juice, honey and olive oil  or coconut oil mixed together can be used as a moisturizer for dry skin.
• Turmeric powder mixed with coconut milk purifies the blood and gives a glow to the skin.
• Aloe Vera juice gives skin a natural glow and gives it a youthful appearance.
• A mixture of cucumber juice and milk works as a good cleanser.

This Halloween and beyond treat yourself to these tasty temptations! If these at home beauty tips and tricks are just not cutting it for you, maybe it’s time to seek out a professional treatment- Contact me to set up an appointment today!  When you are ready to discover just how beautiful you truly are, do not be distracted by the latest fads or quick fixes that promise to reveal some magic secret. Instead, make an investment. Go beyond only watching, or listening. Talk with a professional and discover the only important beauty secret — yours.

Happy Halloween

Claudia ~

It’s summer time and what better way to cool off than with homemade popsicles! Popsicles, are a deliciously refreshing treat on a hot summer day. They are lightly sweetened and made with fresh fruit which makes them a healthier alternative to popsicles with artificial colors, flavors and sweeteners. These fruity popsicles are a summertime favorite around my house.  They remind me of my childhood- every summer my mom would make Paletas de Tamarindo- Popsicles made of Tamarind and we would experiment with other fruits. Below are my two favorite popsicle recipes and  I’ve decided to share them both with you!  Recipes Courtesy of Glutton for Life

You know the song but when temperatures rise and the skin aint looking so pretty, what’s a girl or boy to do? Exfoliation, protection and good nutrition is the main mantra to keep the skin healthy. During summer months, the skin sweats more, so clean your face frequently using a gentle face wash. Avoid harsh soaps that can make the skin rough by removing the essential skin oils. Summer is  often a difficult time for the skin; proper care is necessary not just to cleanse the pores that are purging but also protection from the ultra-violet light is imperative. The skin will form a natural protective layer and tends to thicken to protect it from the effects of the environment. This layer is made up of sebum, dead cells and perspiration which gradually dries out the skin and forms a coating on the skin clogging the pores more easily.

Summer Skincare Tips:

Exfoliation: Skin tends to become more oily as  temperatures rise, this means normal to dry skin types will likely develop into normal to oily during the summer.If you have oily skin, keep it clean by washing every time you step out or do physical activities that cause you to sweat. Choose a moisturizer with a lighter texture during the summer months; the moisturizer should still contain important ingredients that will moisturize the skin effectively. These ingredients include vitamins, humectants and botanicals. As for cleansing, more oil can lead to more clogged pores and break outs, be sure cleanse the skin properly. At bedtime, remove all make up and lightly cleanse in the morning and after any sport or exercise. A cleanser that is effective and not drying is important!  It is important to exfoliate regularly to avoid clogged pores and keep your complexion looking even. An at-home exfoliant, such as a facial scrub can be added to your beauty routine a few times a week to keep your skin at its best. However, I recommend for optimum results a professional facial treatment and with the proper care and guidelines a milder peel can be effective and safe in the summer months too.

Sun Protection: Avoid going out in the sun between 11 AM and 2 PM during the summer months, the intensity of the sun  is more and apart from generating searing heat, the suns rays also radiate high amounts of ultra-violet radiation. UV rays are intense and damaging to the skin thus sun protection is necessary to avoid long term damage and sun protection no lower than SPF 30 should be applied to the face and body to avoid the damage caused by ultra-violet light. UVA rays are the rays that cause wrinkles and skin aging, while UVB rays produce tans and burns. Look for a sunblock that is dual-spectrum, meaning it blocks both UVA and UVB rays. Zinc and/or Zinc Oxide are powerful sun protectors that naturally reflect the sun’s harmful rays, unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb UV rays to prevent them from damaging the epidermal layer. Overexposure to the sun can also result in retinal damage to your eyes, highlighting the importance of sunglasses and hats to shield the eyes, the skin around the eyes is the most delicate and should have extra protection. Sunglasses/Hats that block sun rays are a great investment and they also reduce squinting as a result of sun glare which can cause crows feet or fine lines while the intense summer rays can cause pigmentation to the delicate skin.

For a more in depth look and to answer all your questions regarding sunblock- view my post: Are you getting the most from your Sun Protection?

Antioxidants: Antioxidants are essential for healthy summer skin because they help repair skin and combat free radicals caused by air pollution and sunlight. As the body’s first line of defense against oxidation—a chemical response that can produce cell-damaging free radicals—antioxidants inhibit potentially destructive reactions before they have a chance to snowball out of control and protect the skin from what ages it. Internally, free radicals are believed to be linked to cancer, heart disease and a host of other life-threatening conditions. Externally, evidence suggests a strong link to premature aging, suggesting that oxidative damage plays a major role in the loss of skin firmness, smoothness and luminosity. The human body produces antioxidants naturally and acquires them through dietary sources, however, environmental factors and lifestyle choices greatly increase free radical production and can quickly use up the body’s natural levels of antioxidants. When environmental threats (i.e. UV rays and pollution) and lifestyle choices (i.e. smoking, excessive drinking and poor diet) overwhelm the body with free radicals and exhaust its antioxidant reserves, it often leads to a condition known as oxidative stress. See here for Antioxidant Rich Serums that will save your skin all summer long and beyond!

Nutrition: Summer is a great season to enjoy what nature has to offer – fresh fruits and vegetables. Whether you’re trying to lose weight or just want to eat healthy, summer provides your pick of produce. Summer fruits and vegetables in addition to having lower calories than snack foods, offer antioxidants. Eating Antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables are another way to receive these skin benefits.

Fruits: Berries (Cherry, blackberry, strawberry, raspberry, crowberry, blueberry, bilberry/wild blueberry, black currant), pomegranate, grape, orange, plum, pineapple, kiwi fruit, grapefruit, apple and pears -this fruit has a high water content and filled with antioxidants that are needed to flush a free agent from your body. Trimming calories by taking advantage of the beneficial effects of fiber in your digestive tract.

Vegetables: Kale, chili pepper, red cabbage, peppers, parsley, artichoke, Brussels sprouts, spinach, lemon, ginger, red beets and asparagus. Asparagus is rich in water and have no more than 4 calories. Regular consumption of asparagus to ensure proper hydration of our bodies. This factor also contributed to the ideal function of metabolism. In addition to taking full advantage of vitamin C and A content that increase energy and keep your immune system in top shape.

Dry Fruits high in antioxidants: Apricots, prunes, dates.

Legumes: Broad beans, pinto beans, soybeans.

Nuts and seeds: Pecans, walnuts, hazelnuts, ground nut or peanuts, sunflower seeds.

Spices: cloves, cinnamon, oregano

Water: Finally stay hydrated! Particularly during summer’s dog days, it’s important to make sure you remain hydrated by drinking plenty of water. Caffeinated beverages such as iced coffee or soda can be refreshing, but they also dehydrate the body and the same goes for alcohol. Water not only refreshes the body, it will also help you stay energized and avoid dehydration.

Ah, summer, what power you have to make us suffer and like it.~Russell Baker

Love & Light

Claudia~

In honor of Valentines’ Day this post is all about natural love potions. Popular herbs and aphrodisiacs to keep your libido strong and keep you both in the mood, increasing desire and everything else that comes after that. The best aphrodisiac is having a sexual partner who truly loves you isn’t it? Having sex can be a big stress reliever, releasing physically and emotionally, bonding and aiding in the release of endorphins. What about when stress is the cause of getting you out of the mood?

Many factors can contribute to a drop in one’s libido. Age, illness,hormonal cycles, nutritional deficiencies or even just the drain of everyday demands of work and relationships can create changes in a reduced sex drive. Besides eating right, getting enough sleep, exercising and reducing stress there are other ways to enhance your sexual desire; and herbs are a great way to start. Here are some  popular herbs used for many years to help increase desire and keep you in the mood!

Maca Root: Also called “Peruvian ginseng”, Maca is a folk remedy used to increase stamina, energy, and sexual function. As an adaptogen, Maca can provide more energy if it is needed, but will not overstimulate the body. This Superfood of the Incas is a nutrient-dense ancient medicine that has been prescribed for centuries by holistic Native American healers.

• As an adaptogen it restores the body’s homeostasis when undergoing stress, which means it has the ability to balance and stabilize the body’s systems (cardiovascular system, nervous system, endocrine system, musculature, lymphatic system, etc.)

• In women and men a powerful strength and stamina enhancer, as well as a libido-enhancing food-herb. Increasing sexual desire and fertility. Check out Cordyceps too (the Chinese longevity mushroom)

• In women and men, Maca assists in creating hormonal balance while not having a direct affect on serum hormone levels.

• Improves mental clarity, focus and eyesight sharpness

Ginseng Root:

• Increases stamina and energy

• Stress adaptogen that allows one’s body to adapt to and decrease the negative effects of stress

Damiana:

• A Mexican herb that  can enhance female sexual function via active constituents that have progesterone mimicking qualities.

LOVE PUT A SPELL ON ME

Try this love potion (found in the Yoga Journal)made from Ayurvedic herbs and foods to nourish the reproductive tissues and sexual fluids.

Recipe:

Simmer one cup of almond milk with the other ingredients (available at natural food stores) for 5 minutes. Pour into two demitasse cups and make a toast to your love.

1/2 teaspon of ashwgandha  powder-Used for centuries as an aphrodisiac and a rejuvenative for the male reproductive system, Ashwagandha is said to bestow upon the user the strength and virility of a horse. This potent herb is traditionally used to increase fertility and libido, and has been reported useful in treating impotence. The increase in vital energy provided by Ashwagandha can be used to improve sexual performance and control or can be rechanneled and transmuted into the vibrant energy associated with health and well-being.

1/2 teaspoon of shatavari  powder - Shatavari in Sanskrit means “one who can have a hundred husbands”. It is the main herbal rejuvenative for females but works on both sexes as well. Shatavari nourishes and cleanses the female reproductive organs and ovum.

1/2 teaspoon of ghee (clarified butter)

1/4 teaspoon of licorice root powder

1/4 teaspoon of dry ginger powder

1 date, minced

A pinch of nutmeg

“Love is a symbol of eternity. It wipes out all sense of time, destroying all memory of a beginning and all fear of an end”~ Author Unkown

Love & Light

Claudia~

Bundle up and protect that delicate skin!! Last year we were  giving  dry skin the cold shoulder (see entry)but this year the weather has taken a whole new battle. Is your arsenal of products and strategy up for the challenge?  You still want to follow the same rules of exfoliation, moisturizing and staying hydrated but following a stricter regimen. If you use active products like Vitamin A and Fruit Acids you can still use them but have common sense to avoid them if you are already feeling irritated from the elements or change the frequency  if you are feeling too sensitized. Winter can be harsh which means dry, cold, windy air leaving the skin cracked, peeling, irritated, red and raw. A proper  skin care regimen  is a must. I share with you  some reminders  essential for your skin to survive and avoid winter damage!

Winter Skin Survival Tips:

• Turn down the heat and layer up wearing natural breathable fibers.  The dry forced heat can really  dry out your skin and body.

• No control of the heat? Most of us  know this too well living in New York! Get a humidifier- Moisture in the air will limit the amount of water escaping from your skin compared to a dry environment where water will be more readily drawn out of the skin.

• Drink Water OR Coconut Water- Drinking water will help replace daily water loss and therefore help with hydration. Coconut water is super-hydrating and fortifies the body and skin with much needed potassium and electrolytes! Avoid dehydrating foods and beverages such as coffee, tea, cola, other caffeine containing drinks, and alcohol.

• Stay away from skincare containing harsh abrasives, chemical preservatives and synthetic fragrance. Keep mineral oil, petroleum, and coco butter off your skin and lips. If your lips are cracked and dry  look for  products that contain shea butter, avocado oil, and apricot oil. I love Jane Iredale’s Lip Drink!

• Keeping your face properly hydrated will mean adding a  face oil or serum underneath your normal moisture cream to enhance it’s richness or simply change to a richer cream. We want to enhance the NMF (natural moisture factor) in your cells. Fluid between the cells is imperative for healthy skin. It allows both what you are applying to be absorbed and waste to be expelled. It wouldn’t be a bad idea to use a re-hydrating mask at least twice a week.  See below for product suggestions.

• Change your shower routine-before the bath or shower dry brush. Dry brushing will not only remove all skin debris but it will also stimulate circulation and help flush toxins through the lymphatic system. Keep the bath or shower short and use lukewarm water. Be sure to exfoliate frequently (2-3 times x week). It will help remove the excess  surface cellular debris that the dry brushing pulled up and keep your skin soft and smooth. A sugar scrub is more delicate this time of the year. Look for scrubs with butters and oils, not glycerin or chemical additives. Purchasing a shower filter would be a smart idea too. I finally made the switch for myself and what a difference this is making! Unfiltered water contains high amounts of chemical compounds such as chlorine and fluoride which alkalize water. Alkaline water severely alters the skin’s pH causing more dryness.

• Consume a balanced diet rich in fatty acids, minerals, and green leafy vegetables most of which contain enough water to contribute to hydration. The water from fresh fruits and vegetables is more easily absorbed by our cells than drinking water and so are the nutrients they provide. Supplement if necessary with the EFAs. If your diet is not meeting your needs by taking mercury-free fish supplement. For vegetarians/vegans, you can find several algae-derived Omega- 3/DHA supplements in the market.  Example of foods rich in Omega-3: : salmon, cod, tuna, scallops, shrimp, halibut, flax seeds, walnuts, chia seeds, hemp seeds,  mustard seeds, tofu, kale, brussel sprouts, collard greens, spinach, romaine lettuce and winter squash.

• Be sure to get enough sleep which encourages regeneration of body cells and tissues. It helps the body metabolize free radicals,which accelerate aging.

• Exercise -it increases blood flow to every single organ of your body including the skin and will always produce an improved complexion and a beautiful healthy glow.

• Don’t skip the sunscreen. You may feel like you haven’t seen the sun in days, but harmful UV rays are still making their way through the clouds. Choose a moisturizer with sunscreen built in or layer up.

• Seek out an expert for a professional facial and advice.

There is hope for your ailing epidermis this winter if you follow my simple survival tips and outsmart father frost. Check out my winter product suggestions that will keep your skin healthy all winter long.

Love & Light

Claudia~

Making sense of skincare and nutrition labels can be very complicated and scary especially when you can hardly pronounce the ingredient names. Figuring it all out is no easy task when life gets in the way and all we want is to look and feel good. So what’s the answer? You can become an educated consumer and make a  shift in your lifestyle. I will briefly explain definitions of types of skincare ingredients and rules to follow to bust the label ghosts that trick and fool you everyday and help you make and educated decision on your next trip to the market or cosmetic counter.

Skin Ingredient Rules:

Chiral: Can be derived from natural or synthetic ingredients; causes the least amount of irritation and less chance for adverse reactions. Chirally correct products are never artificial and always recognizable by receptors. This is beyond organic and even more active.

Natural/Organic: Is created by nature however, contrary to popular belief, natural ingredients can cause irritation. In fact, anything can cause irritation. Additionally, the Food and Drug Administration does not regulate the term natural, so keep in mind that any and every company can claim its products are just that. Not all organic skincare or foods are created equal.

Artificial: Fake and foreign; may contain artificial fragrance and colors; may look or smell similar to natural ingredients but is not recognizable by the skin or body.

One of biggest misconception when reading skin care labels is that you can tell how good a product is from the ingredient deck alone. While it is important to know what’s in every product it’s the formulation that counts the most. Slight variances in the processing, concentrations and percentages can make all the difference. The list of ingredients does not tell you how labor intensive the product is to make—whether or not it was cold processed or cooked by an automatic cooker; mixed by hand or in a 500 gallon vat; or made fresh to order or pre-made and stored in drums. This will also decide the cost;bottom line a great product is not easy  or cheap to produce. Wouldn’t you rather  pay for labor and know your getting a good product and not be tricked by advertising and marketing scams or be spending your dollar  for packaging alone? If you have a question about an ingredient or product you need to contact a professional, the manufacturer or search the definition of ingredients on a reputable website such as: ewg.org. Furthermore, I learned this myself not to long ago if a company chooses to abide by INCI regulations, The International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients, they must use the chemical name for their ingredients. This is a system of names for waxes, oils, pigments, chemicals and other ingredients  found in cosmetics, based on scientific names and other Latin words so you may not recognize the name of a popular ingredient.

Food Rules:

The USDA’s Dietary Guidelines are due for another overhaul. The current version, called MyPyramid, is what the USDA thinks a healthy diet should look like, and every five years the government reevaluates what being healthy means. Unfortunately lobbyists have traditionally had a hand in what the USDA decides to promote in its healthy dietary formula. Shouldn’t you stop letting someone else or the government for that matter decide what you should be eating and be proactive about your health. Most people don’t think of inflammation as a catalyst for making food choices, but perhaps it should be. In today’s fast paced world, we often substitute health for convenience. By picking processed or ‘fast’ foods over natural, more nourishing choices, we create an acidic internal environment more prone to outward signs of inflammation. Inflammation is how our immune system responds to injury if you keep this in mind and refrain from eating  inflammatory foods this is a good first food rule. I’ve taken 4 other rules to follow from Michael Pollan author of The Ominvore’s Dilemma(a must read for everyone)FOOD RULES an Eater’s Manual.

#1 Eat foods high in anti-inflammatory properties:

• Fruits and Vegetables: Eat at least nine one-half cup servings of fruits and vegetables each day. The antioxidants found in green leafy vegetables and colored fruits help prevent free radical oxidation that contributes to inflammation. It’s best to eat these foods raw, as cooking destroys some of their beneficial enzymes and antioxidants.

• Healthy Proteins: Cell, muscle and tissue health depend on protein, and the best sources of proteins for an anti-inflammatory diet are omega-3 rich coldwater fish, free-range poultry and plant-based proteins such as beans, nuts and grains. Red meat contains pro-inflammatory arachidonic acid, and thus, should be consumed in moderation. Poaching and stewing methods are healthier ways to cook meat than frying and barbecuing, and replacing meat or fish with peanut butter or hummus once in a while creates a healthy change of pace.

• Healthy Fats: The fats found in olive oil, pumpkin and flax seeds, walnuts, almonds and macadamia nuts are sources of essential fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory properties. Avoid saturated and trans fats, as well as cottonseed, corn, peanut and soy oils, which contain omega-6 fatty acids that can compromise the beneficial effects of the omega-3 fatty acids.

• Super Foods/Greens: Superfood is a term sometimes used to describe food with high phytonutrient content. Raw plant foods are simple and contain thousands of health-giving nutrients, and conform to the biological design of the human digestive system. Super greens can help reduce acidity and restore internal equilibrium.  - Green Juice Recipes Here.

#2 Eat Food.” Easier said than done, when thousands of new products show up in the supermarket each year, all vying for your food dollar. But most of these items don’t deserve to be called food-I call them edible foodlike substances. They are highly processed concoctions designed by food scientists. Choose real food and avoid these industrial novelties.”

#3 Avoid food products that contain high-fructose corn syrup.” Not because HFCS is any worse for you than sugar, but because it is, like many unfamiliar ingredients in packaged foods, a reliable marker for a food product that has been highly processed. Don’t fall for the food industry’s latest scam:products reformulated to contain “no HFCS” or “real can sugar.” These claims imply these foods are somehow healthier,but they are not. Sugar is sugar”

#4 Avoid foods you see advertised on television. “Just like cosmetics marketers food marketers are ingenious at turning criticisms of their products-and rules like these-into  new ways to sell slightly different versions of the same processed foods. If you avoid products with big ad budgets, you’ll automatically be avoiding edible foodlike substances-Food Rule #2.”

#5 Get out of the supermarket whenever you can. “You won’t find any high-fructose corn syrup or anything microwaveable at the farmer’s market. What you will find is whole, fresh foods harvested at the peak of their taste and nutritional quality.”

Halloween can sometimes start the trend to giving in to the urge for sugar filled foods which can  last all the way through the New Year.  Breaking the rules once in a while is fine because it’s about everyday practices that will govern your quality of life and happiness. Your skin, body and pocket will agree and you can achieve effortless health & beauty for a lifetime.

Happy Halloween

Claudia~

Your skin is the largest organ of the body. What you eat effects how your skin feels and looks. Here is a quick look at foods and vitamins that can help your skin:

• Vitamin A-Strengthens skin to repair tissues, helps prevent dry skin and acne. Foods rich in Vitamin A: Eggs,whole milk,carrots,mango and spinach.

• Vitamin E-Prevents free radical damage to skin and helps strengthens skin elasticity. Foods rich in Vitamin E: Almonds,broccoli,spinach, hazelnuts, wheat germ,safflower oil and avocado.

• Vitamin C-Help’s heal wounds and damaged skin. Brightens and strengthens skin. Foods rich in Vitamin C: Oranges, guava,green peppers and sweet red peppers,kiwi, strawberries, tomatoes, brussel sprouts & cabbage.

• Vitamin D-Keeps skin tone healthy, helps relieve stress-related skin problems like eczema and acne. Foods rich in Vitamin D: Oatmeal,whole wheat, dairy products,meats, fish, sardines and liver.

• Zinc-Heals skin, helps over-production of sebum and acne. Foods rich in Zinc: Pumpkin seeds,sunflower seeds,spirulina,okra,french beans,brussel sprouts,avocado,blackberries,dates,pomegranate,raspberries and lentils.

Love & Light

~Claudia