16.01.12
Day 10 of 10 day liver detox
Well, feeling very pleased to get through a very socialable week end drinking beet root juice instead of red wine! - it was actually very easy ....
Gradually increasing vegetable protein - pulses, lentils soya and reducing liver support supplements.
Sleeping well,feeling calm, good energy, all previous bloating and fluid retention has disappeared, skin looks good, - NO cravings, NO hunger in fact could continue this very easily...
I look forwarrd to supporting you in detoxification - which I feel is essential to good health and vitality!
12.01.12
Day 5 of 10 Day liver detox
Well, I've gradually eliminated all acidic foods & am now just having vegetables, organic fruit, seeds, nuts and brown rice......lots of herbal teas & lemon in water. However, its also essential to support phase 1 and phase 2 liver pathways with vitamins, minerals & amino acids - so I'm also taking Nutri Ultra Clear Plus ph.
Day 3 was the worst - lethargic, lack of motivation - obviously missing the caffeine !
Now - feeling calm & relaxed, sleepng well and lost all the bloating and fluid retention following Christmas indulgence.
Just a bit concerned about unexpected social committmemts this w/e & have brought organic beetroot juice to replace the wine!
I look forward to supporting you in your individual & personl detox programme. Choose a time when you can really focus on yourself & give your self a little bit of pampering - you deserve it!
02.01.12
New Year by a Naturopath
Well, like most people the seasonal festivities have left me feeling a little lethargic and heavier, made worse by recent foot surgery which made all exercise difficult. I do not normally recommend detoxification until the spring when we naturally feel our energy rising with changing seasons. For most people, the winter is a time rest and restoring adrenal energy( kidney qi).
However, I am planning to do a 10 day express detox and will support any one who would like to do this with me. This basically means an abundance of alkaline foods and elimination of all acidic foods. For me the challenge is my daily ' good quality coffee' and glass of wine! I know that after 3 days I will begin to feel better and will feel fantastic after a week.
Once my foot has recovered - I look forward to the challenge of running again & building strength and stamina - but most of all I look forward to being outside with Nature again!
21.12.11
Winter Soltice by a Naturopath
As darkness falls in the mid afternoon, twinkling Christmas lights brighten our hearts with the anticipation and excitement of seasonal festivities.
However, it is in the countryside with the stark silhouette of bare trees against the winter sky, flocks of roosting birds and the beauty of the sunset and winter sky which truely lifts my spirit.
Returning home to warmth, comfort good food and rest is always to be appreciated.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine - the winter is associated with kidney energy - so closly related to adrenal function in western medicine. So I urge you to connect with the energy of the universe - and nourish yourself with good food, and rest at this dark time of year. I promise that you will feel the benefit when days begin to lengthen and the energy of Nature grows.
07.11.2011 Life in the fast lane
As a Naturopath living in the modern world – I am as vulnerable to the stress of a busy life as all those who come to see me for advice. However, I am very aware of the warning signs and for me this is always digestion, sleep – and bit of emotional instability. For others it might an increase in pain, stiffness, sore throat & colds or out break of spots.
It is so important to listen to your body – and although it would be easy to either ignore or just take a pill to suppress the symptoms and allow you to continue your busy life – you will only become more ill in the long term as your body continued to shout at you!
At busy times -it is even more important to eat regularly with good sources of protein and I always supplement with extra B vitamins, magnesium, zinc, chromium, vitamin C to support the adrenal glands. Adding in herbs such as Rhodiola & Aswagandha for a short time, really does take away the feeling of just having too much to do.I also use Alpha Stim microcurrent therapy - proven to promote sleep & relaxation by inducing alpha brain waves.
In Chinese Medicine, the kidney energy becomes depleted – leading to low energy, anxiety and aging. Interestingly, in Traditional Chinese Medicine, winter is associated with the kidney energy – so consider it a time to rest and restore your energy.
If you would like to know more about how to survive life in the fast lane:
Book now for THE ULTIMATE LIFESAVER WORKSHOP Thursday 23rd November 9.00am – 12.00md @ The Letchworth Centre for Healthy Living
Limited places £65.00 www.glenyscollings.co.uk/pages/events.php
Call 01462 678804
21st October 09
Seasonal Changes by a Naturopath
As darkness falls and the days become shorter, many people feel low in energy and low in mood. Remember that in Nature, Autumn begins the time of hibernation and sleep. For health and wellbeing, it’s important to listen to our bodies and embrace the seasons.
I look for home comforts and warming food. Seasonal autumnal casseroles, soups, warming spices such as cloves, cinnamon and ginger, log fires, and glowing candles become essential to my wellbeing. I love to use the rustic colours of Autumn to warm my heart and lift my spirit.
Yet, it’s really important for me to spend time out of doors, and I recomend that everyone wraps up and takes time out doors to gain Vitamin D, which is essential for many aspects of health.
It’s no surprise that in ancient Chinese Medicine, winter is associated with kidney energy which is the water element and associated with the colour black and cold. I translate this as adrenal energy in which so many people become deficient, as they work and play too hard.
It is important to resist the temptations of the 24 hour material society in which we live, with fluorescent lights, shopping and internet access made possible by excessive stimulation of drugs, alcohol, caffeine, nicotine and quick sugar fixes
So, as winter approaches it is a time of hibernation, for replenishing energy stores and conserving qi which is really important for our wellbeing. Embrace the seasons and enjoy!!
September 2011
Changing seasons
I hope you are feeling energised by holidays, the light and warmth of summer, and are looking forward to the new season. Although, the days are becoming shorter and darker - I urge you to appreciate all that nature brings...... abundance of fruit, berries and vegetables to provide you with all the nutrients you need to fight the viruses so common at the start of the new term. Its no surprise that in Traditional Chinese Medicine - this season is associated with the lungs and the nose!
Enjoy the changing colours - not just in nature but in the clothes you wear and your living space aswel.
And if you have an inner desire to make changes or learn something new -well now is the time...consider this to be a new start and time to work towards fulfilling your dreams..
May 2011
Toxicity – by Naturopath
My recent research in Australia has made me even more aware of the impact of environmental chemicals on health. In fact, I believe that environmental chemicals are a major cause of obesity & disease in 21st Century. There has been an unprecedented rise in man -made chemicals over the last 30 years which are being absorbed into our bodies. Of course, it is impossible to avoid all chemicals, but as a Naturopath, I believe that we should make every effort to choose natural products in all areas of our personal lives.
Personally, I also recognise the health benefits of regular detoxification at intestinal, liver, kidney and cellular level. I have recently completed a 7 day detox and find this also helps mentally and emotionally. This time of the year is perfect for a ‘Spring Clean’. Warmer weather, an abundance of green vegetables makes the alkaline diet easy and enjoyable.
Add in bowel cleansing herbs, liver support supplements, pro- biotics together with skin brushing, saunas and optional coffee enemas and you will feel so much better with more energy and a clear mind.
Plan to do this at a time when you can really focus on yourself – and give your body all that it needs – you deserve it and it will bring life- long benefits........
Hay Fever by a Naturopath....
It’s Spring again – although I adore sunshine, flowers and blossom – it also brings Hay Fever with itchy eyes, runny nose and sneezing. Enjoying life out- doors is essential to my well being, so the usual advice about closing windows and staying indoors is not an option – neither is taking anti – histamines which cause drowsiness.
I guess I should have started my natural remedies earlier but like most people - I don’t really think about prevention until it’s too late! So for me its New Era Bio-Chemical Tissue Salts which always relieve runny nose and sneezing spasms. I recommend a combination of magnesium phosphate, sodium chloride and silicon dioxide, 4 tablets repeated every ½ hour as required.
Itching eyes can be a particular problem especially if wearing contact lenses, so it’s always a daily eye bath of 2 drops of Neals Yard homeopathic Euphrasia in water to relieve eye symptoms. Euphrasia can also be take internally as an infusion.
I include bee pollen and local honey for extra minerals, vitamins enzymes and a possible homeopathic effect.
Nettle tea is always a favourite and at this time of year the abundance of fresh nettles provides a more concentrated source of minerals and quercetin (a natural anti histamine)
Daily saline nasal washes will always help to clear the sinuses and maintain a clear nose.
So enjoy all that Nature brings this Spring and use Natural remedies to relieve Hayfever symptoms.
Spring by a Naturopath
Spring has finally emerged – and as we all struggle with stress and anxieties of everyday life – it is uplifting to experience the reassuring cycle of Nature. For me, it’s the seeing the daffodils, green shoots, blossom, hearing the birds sing and the smell of newly mown grass that lift my spirit and connect me with the healing power of Nature.
It is no surprise that in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Spring is associated with the wood element- the colour green and is related to the liver energy. So the perfect time to be thinking about detoxifying the liver, especially with all those green vegetables and dandelion leaves in abundance.
Life today exposes us to many more chemicals and toxins which over time can accumulate and become a cause of ill health so now really is a good time to consider a cleanse and detox.
The wood element is also associated with ligaments and tendons so as you feel your energy rising with longer and warmer days - think about increasing your exercise. Regular exercise will not only increase stamina & strength but will eliminate toxins and calm the mind.
More importantly, as you physically cleanse and detox – you will find that mentally and emotionally you will be able to let go of negative thoughts and emotions.
And remember that a good spring clean of material clutter will also enhance your feeling of well being.
So now is the time to Spring clean body, mind and soul and to appreciate t he healing power of Nature.
Keeping warm by a Naturopath
Keeping warm in winter is a challenge for many, including myself. In Traditional Chinese Medicine this may be considered a deficiency of kidney yang and in western medicine a possible symptom of adrenal deficiency – no surprise that the adrenals glands are sitting just above the kidneys!
So how does one ‘tonify yang ‘ and support the adrenal glands.
Well although I understand the energetics of raw food – it is the wisdom of the ancient Chinese sages that makes more sense.
I always ensure some daily raw food for essential vitamins and enzymes but to stay warm I need an abundance of warming ‘yang’ foods – whole grains, warming stews and soups with plenty of root vegetables and sweet pungent spices to encourage warm circulation of the body. Nourishing meals with pulses and lentils to provide essential vitamins and minerals to support the adrenal glands.
Remember that cold water will extinguish your fire so choose hot drinks especially warming herbals with ginger, cinnamon, or liquorice.
Keep putting fuel on the fire with frequent healthy snacks of nuts, seeds, oatcakes.
Of course daily exercise increases metabolism and boosts circulation to increase body temperature. If energy levels are low – beware of over exercising which will deplete energy levels.
Surround yourself with aroma of cinnamon or orange essential oils to lift and warm the spirit.
And remember that wearing warm colours will brighten your day and lift your mood.
And I would not miss my weekly sauna to deeply heat and tonify yang!
New Year – by a Naturopath
The New Year brings longer days, melted snow and soon there will be snowdrops – so much to look forward to.....
Yet the challenges of ill health, financial insecurity, relationship breakdown, bereavement, fear of loss and separation can hit us all.
So I urge you to make three resolutions to bring you happiness and joy in 2011.
1. Give your body all that it deserves- good food, pure water, clean air, sunlight, exercise and rest. Believe in the healing power of Nature – remember that cells rejuvenate – you can have a new body!
2. Be in the present and have appreciation for all that is good in your life. Leave negative thinking behind and focus on positive thoughts which will lead to action and good feelings. Be generous with love, kindness and good deed – and have gratitude for all that you receive back.
3. Make time every day to be still and quiet – listen to the silence – hear your breathing and heart beat – feel the energy within and without – know your soul!
I give you all my good wishes for health, happiness and inner peace - I hope that you will share this with all who touch your life.
Glenys
Darker days by a Naturopath
For many people the onset of darker days, cloudy skies and cold bring doom and gloom. I urge you to embrace the seasons and be grateful for all that winter brings. Take time to rest, sleep longer and appreciate the warmth and comfort of home. Relax with warming colours, textures, candle light and log fires.
Nourish yourself with warming winter food seasoned with lots of herbs and spices and share with friends and family to uplift your spirit.
Also take time to appreciate the beauty of Nature – as Autumn leaves fall -the silhouette of dark branches against the fading light of dusk, flocks of roosting birds and sun set make winter time so special.
So wrap up in winter thermals, woollies, and boots – make time to enjoy fresh air and make the most of daylight hours it really will make you feel better.
Remember – now is the time to give your self the all rest and nourishment you deserve – you are worth it....
23.09.2010 - Bereavement by a Naturopath
Loss of loved ones is of course so sad, especially if unexpected or before life has truly blossomed. So take time to grieve and let those tears wash away the pain – it’s healthy and better than suppressing your emotions...
Personally, I find it helps to recall all those special moments shared – the fun, laughter, the good times , and difficult times that have made that relationship so special and appreciate that my life has been touched in so many ways.
I find comfort in the belief that the soul retains its individuality after death. If we consider our bodies to be a cage and the spirit a bird – we can see that when the cage becomes broken, the spirit continues to exist and flies to greater freedom – a paradise and realm of light.
So celebrate the life that you have shared with your loved one, be grateful that you have been part of it and believe in the re-birth of the Spirit.
At the same time, appreciate every moment of life, take time to nurture all those relationships that are special to you. Be kind, be thoughtful, be loving and show your care and love.
Life is precious -be grateful and appreciate....
August 2010 -My Sleep by a Naturopath
Sleep for many people comes naturally – for others including myself, sleep can be a challenge. Often disturbed sleep can be blamed on external factors – babies, children, worrying about the whereabouts & safety of teenagers, the neighbours, snoring partners, the cat, dog, birds and anything that goes bump in the night. Even when all the external factors are eliminated - it can be that busy mind, hot sweats and vivid dreams that frequently wake and can leave one tossing and turning throughout the night only to fall into a deep sleep when it is time to get up.
In Chinese Medicine, insomnia can be related to deficiency of yin which is associated with a busy and hectic lifestyle and ‘ living life in the fast lane’, worry and anxiety all damage the yin. In modern western society when, stimulants such as caffeine, sugar, nicotine, alcohol and drugs are used as a quick fix - the body’s reserves of yin energy are depleted. Similarly, in western medicine – it’s the adrenal glands which become depleted and can manifest as insomnia.
So – how to achieve that deep undisturbed sleep and awake with that ‘feel good factor’...
Firstly, have a day with no stimulants at all – eliminate all caffeine, high sugar snacks or drinks, alcohol and drugs – if you have withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, tiredness or foggy mind – just rest & drink plenty of water. Optimum nutrition is essential to provide essential minerals /vitamins and to balance blood sugar levels. For me its my daily fix of 'good quality coffee' that has to go..
Ensure some daily physical exercise in the fresh air - make it relaxing & meditative - yes even the running - slow it down....& and be mindful of nature...
Then start the bedtime wind down 2 hours before you plan to go to sleep – switch off all electronic stuff –computers/television - plan some ‘me time ‘ relaxation – what ever works for you – relaxing music, meditation, warm salt bath with lavender or chamomile....
Try a herbal teas containing vervain, chamomile or hops or if it is more than 2 hours since you have eaten have a milky drink with a small carbohydrate snack.
If all this fails – there are natural herbal supplements which can be recommended and occasionally hormonal imbalances need to be addressed.
Late Summer 02.08.2010
As we approach late summer –it is no surprise to me that in Traditional Chinese Medicine – this time of year is associated with the earth energy, the colour yellow, sweetness, singing, transformation and digestion. As yellow fields are harvested and later the earthy small of freshly ploughed soil fills the air, we are reminded of the changing seasons and the essence of our energy.
Digestive symptoms and low energy are increasingly common, usually caused by nutrient deficient processed food and stress. So, enjoy the abundance seasonal fruit, and vegetables, local food, prepare with love and take time to relax and eat - not only your digestion but your energy and well being will benefit.
July 2010-07-18
How quickly the summer passes –already the blossoms of a few weeks ago have gone to seed and hips, haws, sloes, elderberries and black berries are adorning the hedgerows in readiness for ripening in the late summer sun. The fields are abundant with golden wheat, barley, oats and rape- soon to be harvested. How essential to our wellbeing that we appreciate the present and have gratitude for all of Natures gifts. So much time and energy is lost by dwelling on regret, resentment or anger from the past or feeling anxious or worried about the future. A few moments each day connecting with Nature and being grateful and appreciative for all that we have will only bring more of what we need and that is good for us. So just for today- listen to the birds, see the changes in Nature, taste some freshly picked fruit or vegetables, feel the natural touch of grass or sand between your toes......and breathe fresh air... enjoy the Summer.
Summer by a Naturopath
Longer days, warmer temperatures, blue skies, flowers and green countrside fill me with energy and joy. It is no surprise that in Traditional Chinese Medicine, Summer is associated with the Heart energy, the emotions of joy, sounds of laughter, growth and heat. It's time to energise and enjoy the abundance of seaonal fruit and vegetables, as well as the great life out doors.
The hedgerows are abundant with flowers thet are good for our health. Dandelion leaves can be infused to make a refreshing tea which will help to eliminate excess fluid, nettle leaves are full of minerals, and will relieve hay fever, support immune system and healthy joints. Elderfowers are beginning to bloom- and it's time to be thinking about making a cordial - elderflowers contain bioflavenoids and will regulate excess mucus production.
And as Ossie Osbourne says (Sunday Times 06.06) if you want to go organic - grow your own - its easy, fun and even a window sill or a small patio will provide a small harvest!
Have gratitude and appreciate for all that Nature provides for us...
Hay-fever....... by a Naturopath April 2010
The emergence of Spring with flowers, tree blossom, green shoots and singing birds will I’m sure uplift the spirit and bring joy to all. However, for some (including myself) it can also bring sneezes, itchy eyes and a runny nose.
Determined to treat these symptoms naturally and resist OTC anti- histamines and nasal steroid sprays and eye drops, - I look for natural alternatives.
First it is essential to address the diet and eliminate all mucus forming and intolerant foods such as dairy, wheat, caffeine and alcohol.
More important is an abundance of foods rich in minerals and anti –oxidants to prevent inflammation. So lots of coloured fruit and vegetables, and natural grains are essential.
I include bee pollen and local honey for extra minerals, vitamins enzymes and a possible homeopathic effect.
Green food powder which contains barley grass, spirolena, chlorella, and chlorophyll can be added to water to support an alkaline diet.
Nettles contain quercetin which has been shown to have an anti-inflammatory and anti-histamine effect. Fresh nettels can be picked and made into an infusion. It never ceases to amaze me how Nature provides fresh nettles at the time when we need them most!
I always take Euphrasia as a tincture (available from Neal’s Yard) to prevent redness and itching of my eyes.
New Era tissue salts blended for Hay Fever containing magnesium phosphate, sodoum chloride, and silica will always stop those sneezing spasms of runny nose.
As for nasal congestion –well daily saline nasal washes help to clear the sinuses and maintain a clear nose.
I'm looking forward to happy and healthy Spring and Summer with lots of outdoor fun.
Easter 2010.... .. .....by a Naturopath
As a Naturopath, my connection with the seasons and Nature is very close to my heart and essential to my wellbeing. The extreme Winter has delayed the onset of Spring to coincide perfectly with Easter. So the death of Winter and emergence of New Life relates so closely with the death of Christ and the resurrection.
Naturopaths work closely with the healing power of Nature – yet we recognise that death is a natural experience for us all to face. In my work I hope to support people in that transition when the body can no longer heal itself.
Personally, this Easter makes me feel uplifted spiritually as the transition of Nature from Winter to Spring colours my world with flowers, blossom and green leaves. It brings new energy and life which I hope to share with all those in my life.
Successfully fighting a virus naturally – by a Naturopath!
- it’s that familiar feeling of slightly aching glands, shivers, sneezes and feeling tired that makes me aware of an imminent ‘cold wind invasion’ as they say inTraditional Chinese Medicine, especially when associated with runny nose and white coated tongue...... so determined to fight the invasion – I start taking 1000mg Vit C 2 hourly and 0.6mls of A Vogel Echinacea 3 times a day , some Chinese herbs from www.acumedic.com and a hot toddy with an early night and some positive affirmations- I’ve won the battle – the next morning I’ve regained most of my vibrant energy. Well enough to work , go for a swim & sauna – nothing like a stretch & a sweat to warm & move some qi!
20.01.10
Running by a Naturopath
Well, running has always been an important part of my life. I always enjoyed sports at school but like many people did not really continue after I had left. It was around 30 that I felt the need to get fit and regain my body after pregnancies and breast feeding. It was a real challenge at first. As I gained fitness and stamina - I became aware my competitive nature. I was soon counting miles and clocking the times and began to enter local 10 K’s. The running continued becoming a very important part of my life – there was even a time when I would make sure that I ran as many miles as units of alcohol I drank – my way of controlling – I guess.
Through difficult times, I used my running to run away, create my own space, process my thoughts and find my inner strength. Like many people, I realised that I should make something positive come out of all that running. So I raised £2,000 doing a marathon run in 4h 23m – not really a club runner time but not bad for a lonely runner.
Since then my running has become as essential to my mental wellbeing as to my as my physical wellbeing. It’s much more meditative- a time to think, have my own space and appreciate nature.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine – cold and damp will settle in vulnerable place like joints and ligaments causing pain and stiffness, so it’s important to stay warm. Exercise will move qi so that one feels energised but over exercising will deplete qi – causing long term exhaustion, so I l don’t push to my body if I am really tired. Adequate nutrition is essential particularly minerals to eliminate lactic acid and maintain alkalinity. An awareness of these principals has kept me free of injuries and I hope to continue running for many years yet.
I aim to make running more fun & plan to run with my darling daughter who is just realising the joys of running – and we are going to have a laugh!!!!
18.01.2010
Is the winter over......
Well, I know it’s not exactly spring but the days are getting longer, and I can feel the energy rising.
It’s great to be running again after all that snow. There’s an awful lot of water around but according to Traditional Chinese Medicine winter is associated with water, cold, the colour black and the kidney element. It’s important for us to restore our kidney qi by resisting overwork and stimulation. It never ceases to amaze me how nothing has really changed since those wise sages wrote the ancient texts thousands of years ago.
However, after all that snow, it’s a joy to see the green shoots of spring flowers and to hear the birds singing. I’m really looking forward to the first snowdrops & early daffodils.
As I become energised by more daylight and signs of spring, I can feel the urge to clean, tidy and move forward. Of course, letting go of l clutter is important at a mental & emotional level as well as practically and physically.
So, even if the winter is not really over I am looking forward to Spring and achieving new goals.....
Health of a Naturopath 08.01.10
As a Naturopath I believe that physical or emotional symptoms are our body’s way of telling us to make some changes.
So when I suffered epigastric pain with loss of appetite & disturbed sleep five days ago, I knew I had to make some changes. I realised that this was due to a little festive over indulgence and some anxiety.
Digestive enzymes, slippery elm and some lemon in hot water with manuka honey soon relieved to acute symptoms. However, I knew that I needed to make some more changes for a long term healing and health.
I was also feeling a little bloated and foggy headed and knew that detoxification at a cellular level would be beneficial. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, I certainly would not recommend a juice fast or raw food diet at this time of year, especially if like me you are intolerant of cold. However, a regular diet of wholegrains, vegetables, pulses and lentils with lots of warming spices will restore alkalinity and cleanse the body.
I also drank lots of alkaline herbal teas & added mineral powder, as well as colon & liver support. Bentonite clay is not my favourite so I take with hot water & juice to really help the elimination of toxins.
I also reminded myself of The Serenity Prayer
God grant me the serenity
To accept the things I cannot change:
Courage to change the things I can;
And the wisdom to know the difference.
Again my appreciation of mind – body connection has been re- inforced – I recognise that by simply cleansing the physical body – the mind and emotions also become more clarified and positive.
I am now feeling healthy happy and energised........
31.01.2009
New Year by a Naturopath
Wow – New Year is even more exciting this year as it’s a ‘Blue Moon’ – the second full moon this month!
Christmas, for me this year, has been lovely but particularly busy – and I’m choosing to spend a quiet New Years Eve with my favourite food, drink, a special person and log fire...
.. I’m really looking forward to 2010 – can’t believe it’s 10 years since all those millennium celebrations.. hoping I’m finally going to get some ‘me ‘time .. some country walks and hopefully get to the beach..
New year fills me with new enthusiasm hope and passion to full fill everything that I believe is important not just for myself but for the world. This has got to be the year that we all become aware of the chemicals and toxins to which we are exposed and which are affecting our health and the health of the planet. We are all becoming victims of 21st century diseases which are caused by the increased toxicity to which we are exposed and to which our bodies are not adapted.
More about detox later - but please make a New Year’s resolution to make your life as naturally healthy as possible - just begin by eliminating all chemicals and material junk!
Love and Best Wishes for a Healthy and Happy 2010
12.12.2009
Christmas by a Naturopath
Yes – I love Christmas – I love the traditions, the preparations, the feeling of good will and all the twinkling lights which lift the spirit at this dark time of year. The aroma of roasted chestnuts, cloves, cinnamon, the fresh green pine of the Christmas tree and log fires bring nostalgic feelings of festive fun. I also love the winter sunsets, the cold crispness of winter and above all the stillness and peace of the night on Christmas Eve when I feel the true spirit of Christmas.
I love this time of showing appreciation and gratitude with gifts and good wishes to all those friends, family and work colleagues who are special in our lives.
For me traditional Christmas food made with love (or even bought last minute in the Christmas rush) and shared with loved ones is the essence of the spirit of Christmas.
A few days to relax and reflect, to feel warmth and energy and to spend quality time with loved ones and to renew our faith.
September 09
Sep 08
Well, I’m old enough & wise enough to realise that life is not a ‘bed of roses’ - having lived through the idealism of youth- the experience of raw foodism in the 80’s and subsequent vegetarianism – I now recognise that healthy eating depends on recognising one’s own genetic constitution and providing nutrition which supports one’s metabolism.
An ability to eliminate the toxins and acidity of the world in which we live is essential to vibrant health.
However, even more important, is the ability to promote positive energy when challenged by the stresses which are perceived from life’s crisis such as relationships, pain, ill health, financial or work fears and insecurities.
So – I would like to share a day in my life……….
In accordance with Traditional Chinese Medicine, I wake at dawn to sound of the dawn chorus and when I open my eyes I become aware of the changing seasons by the trees out side my window.
Hot water with lemon or nettle tea stimulate my metabolism – positive affirmations, deep breathing and stretching a great way to move ‘qi’.
Straight into work-out clothes ensure the morning exercise ritual – which includes body toner & abs followed by running, tai chi in the garden and yoga stretches – having experienced marathon & competitive training – I can now endorse the benefits of meditative repetitive exercise to clear the mind and stimulate endorphins!
Of course the domestics and laundry have to be fitted in as well - I only use natural products.
Tending my plants and herbs is essential to my wellbeing - I grow wheatgrass which I juice for super nutrition.
I then enjoy a wonderfully relaxing & hydrating green tea followed by my 'designer' nourishing breakfast – a muesli type mix of natural grains, maca, wheatgerm, flax seeds, bee pollen, goji berries cranberries, maple syrup & natural organic fat free yogurt - scrummy…
Skin brushing and my morning shower are my wake up to the day - note only natural organic products!
Every day, I focus on doing what I really want to do- my work is my life and fills me with joy and satisfaction. If I’m working at home – it’s e- mails, phone calls , research admin etc.. If I’m going out to work – and this may involve whole days out – I always take a flask of herbal tea and a packed lunch of salad, cous cous, vegetables, quinoa, rice, pasta, feta, nuts, seeds.
My weakness is my 11.00 coffee fix - if this can be a really good quality coffee, with a quality news paper or chat with friend - I consider it to be a luxury – occasionally , I admit to a take away coffee on the run ( a recognition of my addictive personality)
Lunch is a necessary break in my day – and I truly believe that the secret of longevity is regular eating habits - even more important is the ability to relax while eating in order to facilitate digestion & absorption.
An appropriate lunch is essential to avoid those mid afternoon sugar cravings or energy slumps – I have a mid afternoon snack of cereal bar, nuts, seeds and more herbal tea.
At 7.00, I am very aware of switching off in order to relax – I strongly recommend a change of clothes, relaxing music, lighting candles and burning incense to promote a feeling of true relaxation. Cooking for me is an emotional experience when I can relax and give love and energy through the preparation and sharing of food. I really enjoy wine but again have an awareness of how addictive this can become.
I relax spending time reading, listening to music, practicing yoga, reiki or meditation but am truly appreciative of special time spent with close friends and family and am always the last to leave a party!
Sleep is vital to my wellbeing & as I have advised many of my patients – a relaxing
I do take herbal & nutritional supplements - but am very much in tune with my own body and vary according to my needs. I also practice regular fasts & detox .However I recomend that fasting & detox is only practiced under supervision and will advise and support as part of therapy.
I truely practice all that I preach .
I hope to inspire and motivate you to achieve the health and well-being that you that you deserve.
Best in Health
Glenys