Gigi's Health Tips

The Sexual Health Chronicles: Sex Key to Emotional Connections

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Thu, 17 Apr 2014 02:00:00 +0000

Sex is the essential ingredient for emotional health to exist within any romantic partnership. Physical relations form a key foundation for emotional connections to strengthen; as a result, couples should always make time for intimacy in their hectic daily lives. As it turns out, intercourse can keep two individuals bonded through any degree of chaos. This useful guide explores the various ways that frequent sexual interactions can enhance the emotional aspects of a relationship.

Establish Communication

The successful pursuit of shared enjoyment requires a keen focus on each party's needs and impulses. Responsive listening is a useful skill that can be learned through repeated romps in the bedroom. The ability to openly express personal sexual information creates a pure line of truthful communication that can be applied to all other arenas of life.

Build Acceptance

Two people are perhaps the most exposed during a sexual encounter. Embracing one another in a moment of exclusive nakedness allows both parties to feel emotionally accepted on a primal level. Being able to fully share passion is an exquisite luxury that unites people in profoundly transcendental ways, and the deep mental link can never be broken by lesser trivialities. Sexuality gives everyone a chance to experiment with unconditional love, which does wonders for emotional health.

Create Sense of Belonging

The basic wiring of human psychology causes people to rely on stored memories for attributions of pleasure, which means dependence will be bred in a Pavlovian manner. Orgasms will continuously reinforce the need for close proximity. Maintaining pleasurable forays during busy times will ensure a peacefully intertwined lifestyle.

Ingrain Self-Confidence

A high frequency of intimate encounters naturally boosts one's own sense of desirability, which automatically induces an increase in personal optimism. An increased rate of sexual interactions facilitates an increase in pheromone production, which will garner positive reception from audiences of the opposite gender without even consciously trying. Furthermore, afterglow grants real benefits too; mainly, skin complexion will start to clear after a vitamin release caused by incorporating multiple orgasms into a regular regimen.

The Motivation of Mutual Satisfaction

The routine occurrence of sexual bonding can make an arduous work schedule seem much more rewarding. Conventional wisdom is simply wrong when it declares a busy schedule to be a valid excuse for infrequent intimacy; in fact, the human brain is designed to be more productive once basic needs are fulfilled. Scheduling a sexy evening can make a long work day go by a lot faster. On a physiological scale, sex helps foster a balanced hormonal state for clearer thinking skills and harmonious emotional perspectives.

Learn Patience

Sex is not always easy or straightforward. Romantic activities are not always going to consist of non-stop unbridled passion. There will be plenty of obstacles, but a loving partner will take the time to discover heightened states of consummated bliss. During times that render intimate moments difficult, it helps to have a compassionate significant other that is willing to explore new ways of creating personal bonds.

Take good care of yourself!

Roasted Avocado over Couscous

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Tue, 15 Apr 2014 23:30:00 +0000

I found this recipe on the Examiner. I made it and it was absolutely yummy. Good fats, good grains, and good for you. What more could you ask for? I had no idea you could roast avocado. Here are the details. Courtesy of: http://www.examiner.com/article/roasted-avocado-over-couscous-salad

Ingredients
2 avocados
1/2 cup couscous
1/4 small red onion, peeled and diced
1 tbsp. lemon juice
2 handfuls mixed greens
½ cup water
Salt and pepper
Olive oil

Instructions
Preheat oven to 400º. Cut avocado into quarters and take the pit out. Peel the quarters and discard the skin. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Bake for 15 minutes. While the avocado is in the oven, prepare your salad. Bring the water to a boil and add in the couscous and onion. Add some more salt and pepper and about ½ tsp. olive oil. Once couscous has cooked, remove from heat and cover. Mix the lemon juice with another tablespoon of olive oil and a bit more salt and pepper to make the salad dressing. Once your avocado is finished in the oven, fluff the couscous with a whisk, toss the greens in the salad dressing, and mix the coated greens with the couscous. Top with your roasted avocados and enjoy!

Take good care of yourself!

The Sexual Health Chronicles: Spice up the Bedroom with Toys

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Tue, 15 Apr 2014 02:40:00 +0000

Sex toys are fun. Is there a better reason for trying them out? Perhaps your time in the bedroom isn't what it was in the beginning. Maybe you're simply curious about the hype surrounding sexual toys. It's also possible that you want to fulfill some secret fantasy that wouldn't be possible without a sex toy. Whatever the reason, one thing is certain about incorporating toys into your intimate life: things will get spicier because new is exciting.

Why Some People Are Reluctant About Using Sexual Toys

While the thought of using sex toys can really make some people's hearts race, others aren't so sure about the idea. Some individuals might perceive using objects for arousal to be unnatural or even taboo. Many men see dildos and vibrators as competition with uncanny size and stamina--and that intimidates them. They're afraid that their partners will develop unrealistic performance expectations after getting used to battery-powered toys. There are also individuals out there who question the safety of putting foreign objects into very private areas. It's also possible that certain sexual toys are too pricey for many people's tastes, or that being unfamiliar with the vast selection of sexual implements and their operation can be quite off-putting. The list goes on, but unless you're completely against the idea of experimenting with them, it's worth giving it a shot to see how things pan out. Your initial impressions could change very quickly.

Take Your Intimacy to the Next Level

If you currently find intercourse to be boring or can't seem to climax anymore, it's obvious that being intimate doesn't arouse you as much as it should. Toys can change all of that if you're willing to try.

Sexuality isn't just a physical matter. It also has everything to do with the mind. Trying something new and unfamiliar can be extremely arousing for many couples. Frankly, that's why people are so prone to cheating. It's the idea of being with a complete stranger and having a brand new experience with that individual that's so exhilarating. Of course, cheating on each other is the last thing that a committed couple would ever want or think of doing. Toys, however, can have the same thrilling effect on a couple's dying relationship.

The Best Toys for Couples Just Getting Into It

If both you and your partner are on the same boat about playing, you're going to have to stop by a toy store to stock up on goodies. Here are a few common toy types that might strike your fancy.

> Dildo

Dildos are phallic objects made from a soft plastic material. They're the most basic of bedroom implements and must be manually operated by the individual receiving or giving. Dildos come in all shapes, sizes, and colors, so select a form that both partners find to be pleasing.

> Vibrator

The vibrator is a toy that creates vibrations when activated by a switch or remote control. Vibrators may also come in phallic shapes, but they can also exist in various different forms from finger pads and "bullets" to things that are more complex. Originally designed as a woman's private companion, vibrators are inserted into the vagina and may also include a part for stimulating the clitoris.

> Penis Ring

The penis ring is usually a stretchy band that slides down the shaft of a penis to the base. It also vibrates and stimulates both the male and female partner during intercourse.

> Anal Beads

Couples interested in back door fun could find much enjoyment in using anal beads--plastic spheres of varying sizes attached to a string. The spheres are inserted into the anus one at a time and are meant to cause sexual arousal during both insertion and pull-out.

Have some fun and take good care of yourself!

Healthy Sex Chronicles Part I: 4Play All Day Long

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Fri, 04 Apr 2014 02:32:00 +0000

You've probably heard that good foreplay is the secret to great sex. Well, it's true, but foreplay doesn't just refer to the brief fondling that occurs minutes before intercourse. Experts believe that it also includes every suggestive action that occurs throughout the day between partners before leading up to sex. Keeping your partner primed for what's to come is the surest way to have him or her begging for the big finale.

Why does all-day foreplay work?

Imagine that you're cooking steaks for dinner. Would you rather throw it on a skillet right away, or would you prefer to let it marinade in an awesome blend of spices overnight before savoring it? The latter obviously sounds more appealing, right? The same reasoning applies to sex. Foreplay is the marinade that makes everything taste so much better.

The power of suggestion is one that's very hard to resist. Foreplay is all about suggestion. Doing little things here and there to entice your partner over the course of the day is the way to build up carnal desires. Sex is as much a mental game as it is a physical one. The brain is an amazing thing, and without thinking about sex beforehand, the sexual activity wouldn't be nearly as enjoyable as it could be. When your partner is lusting for your touch, the level of arousal that he or she feels when you both finally make contact will be seriously magnified. That's exactly what you want.

What can I do to tease my partner?

There are many ways to wet your partner's sexual appetite. On the day that you plan to get freaky, here's what you can do.

> Give your significant other a juicy smooch before heading off to work

Instead of the typical peck on the cheek, use your lips and tongue with this one. Take your time, and don't be afraid to ruin your lipstick. You can always reapply it.

> Leave a sexy note in your partner's purse or briefcase

There are few surprises more pleasant than letting your partner know what you want to do to him or her after work. Sticky notes carefully placed in pants pockets, wallets, or even on a laptop screen should do the trick.

> Send each other "sexts" throughout the day

Sexy text messages will surely have your significant other yearning for more after you've stimulated that mind repeatedly.

> Surprise your partner by sending seductive photos over email

Like they say, pictures are worth a thousand words. In this case, risqué self-shots could be worth the best sexual experience you've ever had.

Enjoy and take good care of yourself!

Blood Type Key to Wellness and Weight Loss

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Sun, 30 Mar 2014 16:53:00 +0000

Obesity and weight loss. These words have the power to strike a chord of dread even in the most fearless of people. Most people at some point in their lives have tried some type of “diet” that may work in the short-term, but more than likely has very little to zero long-term benefits.

The reasons that most weight loss programs do not work in the long-term are varied. There are not very many people who can sustain themselves very long on a cabbage soup diet or a plan that strictly prohibits you from eating a variety of different foods. People are not wired that way. To top it all off, the recommendation is to engage in some form of moderate to intense exercise program. The problem with this is that if a person has not had proper nourishment, there is positively no way that any type of exercise program is going to happen, let alone be successful. Just imagine this scenario: You have been eating cabbage soup for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Now, you are supposed to work out at an intense enough rate to keep your heart rate up, as well as strength training. You probably barely had enough strength just to make it through your day after your healthy” cabbage soup "meals." Exercising is not going to be an option because you are just too beat to do anything more than what you absolutely have to do. This whole scene is discouraging and is a setup for failure.

To make matters even worse, when you go to see your doctor and he or she advises you that you need to need to eat better to improve your health. You then ask the usual questions, but mainly you want to know how to lose the excess pounds for your overall wellness. Your physician then proceeds to tell you that the only way to shed those excess pounds is through vigorous exercise and calorie restriction. You try to explain to your doctor that you have already been on that ride, did not find it fun, and could he please advise something better for you. His reply is probably going to be to tell you to just stick with it. Your mind is screaming, “Are you kidding me right now?”

Being obese has many negative health implications. The most obvious of these is that obesity is not physically attractive. Everyone wants to be able to look and feel his or her best. This does not necessarily mean that you have to be excessively thin, as that has its own set of problems. However, achieving numbers that are suitable for your age and gender is ideal and reaching your goal may not be as difficult as you previously thought.

Losing extra pounds with the blood type program could possibly be the answer to you finally getting to your ideal goal. I recently read Eat 4 Your Blood Type, developed by naturopathic physician, Dr. Peter D’Adamo. The basic way that this works is by finding out your type, A, B, O, or AB. Once your type has been determined, you are given an eating plan that is both satisfying and nourishing.

Blood Type Weight Loss

The blood type weight loss plan addresses individuals and does not assign a one-size-fits-all type of “diet” to everyone. This plan is really tailored to an individual person's needs at the cellular level. It addresses things such as allergies, disease susceptibility, food combining, etc. Once you know your blood type, you will know which foods will specifically help you to lose body fat safely and effectively. Another bonus to Dr. D’Adamo’s plan is that you do not have to wait for a long period of time before you start to see results. Many have seen results in as little as two weeks. Remember the strenuous exercise program that was discussed earlier? This plan even addresses that. Based on your type, you may be pleasantly surprised to find that the exercise plan that you need may not be as difficult or as time-consuming as you had been previously told by other physicians.

A person with a Type A blood is likely to predisposed to diseases such as heart disease and cancer. Therefore, these types should concentrate on eating foods that are organic. An eating plan that is rich in organic fruits and vegetables is best. Type A’s prefer exercises such as tai chi and yoga for calmness and centering.

Someone who is Type B has a very strong digestive and immune system. Also, someone who is type B, tends to be more resistant to chronic illnesses. These types best benefit from moderate exercise like hiking and tennis.

Type O people tend to respond well to intense physical activity like running, martial arts, and contact sports. Foods rich in animal proteins work best, while grains and dairy tend to contribute to gaining excess pounds. Gluten is a major contributor of weight gain in Type O.

Those who are type AB are more biologically complex. A combination of both the A and B program is well-suited to them.

If you or someone that you know is obese, Dr. D’Adamo’s plan may be just what you need to improve your overall health and wellness. Doing so will lead you to a healthier, happier, and more vital life. Hey, I started following the plan for a Bloody Type A and I'm 10 lbs down in less than 2 weeks!

Take good care of yourself!

Thoughts = Life

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Fri, 28 Mar 2014 05:47:00 +0000

A few months ago I ran across a coupon for a group hypnosis class for weight loss. I've tried practically every diet out there so why not add this one to the list. Well to my disappointment I didn't get reprogrammed to hate carbs as I had initially hoped. I did however get some much needed instructor-led meditation along with the following message repeated throughout the session. "Be careful what you say to yourself because yourself is listening." That concept really resonated with me. The average person can have more than ten thousand thoughts in one day and majority of those thoughts are negative. Have you ever listened to your self-talk...the thoughts running wild in your head?

"Why did I do that? I'm so stupid"
"I'm fat/wide/ugly/too skinny"
"I can't do [fill in the blank]"
"I wish I had his/her [fill in the blank]"

"I'm so tired"
"I don't have the money"
"I'm stuck in this position"
"I'll never be/have [fill in goals]"
"Things never go right for me"

It's so easy to be critical of self, but ironically you wouldn't speak to a close friend or loved one in this manner so why do we tear ourselves down? After the hypnosis class I started to pay more attention to my thoughts. I learned that I am extremely hard on myself and impatient. At 35 I am just recognizing that my thoughts and words are little seeds that I am constantly planting in my life. I think, "I'm tired"...my body responds by sitting on the couch for hours at a time. I think, "I don't know as much as my colleague"... my confidence shrivels and I don't speak up in the meeting. I think, "my stomach looks huge"...I now struggle to believe and accept the compliments from my husband.

Okay, so the class didn't prevent me from loving bread and pasta, but it did so much more. It made me conscious of the power of my thoughts. I can control my thoughts. My attitude towards life and ultimately my happiness are within me. From now on I'm planting positive seeds. I'm only depositing GOOD STUFF in this body - physically and mentally. Just like Being Mary Jane, I started leaving post-it notes all over the house with positive affirmations and reminders to be kind and patient with myself.

A couple of books are helping me through the journey to absolute self-love. There are tons of resources on the subject. My favorite are the Hay House books. Louise Hay is the queen of the feel-good!

Take good care of yourself.

Am I hoarder?

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Mon, 04 Feb 2013 01:49:00 +0000

I was preparing to make a little masterpiece in the kitchen today. I pulled out all my ingredients to make a bacon carbonara pasta dish (I know and I don't even want to hear it) and that's when I noticed the expiration date on the parsley container. 05MAR11. Yes, I was and have been using some freakishly old seasoning. As much as I detested throwing out my three-quarter full container, I knew it was for the best. Then I went on to review all of my spices. Do you know I threw out more than 15 containers, large and small. Then I started going through my baking ingredients and found myself ditching flour, vanilla extract bottles, and even cookie sprinkles. My whole dang kitchen was OLD. I couldn't believe it. Now at this point the spring cleaning spirit was in me and was running around the house tossing anything that remotely looked dusty into trash bags. I reviewed every item in the pantry, and the refrigerator. At the end of my cleaning rampage I threw out more than 4 tall trash bags of condiments, spices, pasta, popcorn, jello, vitamins, over-the-counter and prescription drugs (except for my Vicodin and Percocet...I would never throw out the good stuff), and hair and skin products. But seriously when is the last time you did an inventory of your kitchen, your medicine cabinet, your makeup bag, and under your sink? A lot, if not all, of these articles have an expiration date. When it comes to perishable foods it is easy to tell when they go bad because they usually develop mold or have a foul order. It's harder to tell when seasonings or processed food go bad because they might look and taste okay. Truth is when you go past the "Best by or Use by" date, the food's nutritional value decreases and the taste may not be as tasty as it once was. Likewise with medicine, it's best to throw out old vitamins and drugs as they lose their potency after the expiration date and what's worse they could potentially cause illnesses or other conditions. Unlike food, cosmetics may not display an expiration date, however, they go bad just the same. Old cosmetics can cause eye infections and skin blemishes. As a tip, when you buy a new cosmetic item immediately mark it with the date purchased with a marker. Did you know mascara goes bad at around 3-4 months? When's the last time you switched out that basic beauty item? Check out the guidelines for the basic types of make up products.

Product	Toss it after. . .
Mascara	3 - 4 months
Concealer	12 months
Water-based Foundation	12 months
Oil-based Foundation	18 months
Blush or bronzer	18 months
Cream blush	18 months
Eye shadow	3 years
Pencil Eyeliner	3 months
Powder	2 years
Lipstick/lip gloss	18 months
Lip liner	12 months
Nail polish	12 months
Makeup sponges	Wash weekly,discard monthly

So let the spring cleaning spirits be with you so that you can prevent any illnesses or at the very least not be featured on an episode of Hoarders.

Take good care of yourself.

A Fruitcake....no a Fruitarian? Oh I see!

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Tue, 29 Jan 2013 05:49:00 +0000

I'll take the fruitcake on this one. So apparently Ashton Kutcher who is playing Steve Jobs in the upcoming biopic jOBS, immersed himself into the role so much so that he adopted Steve Jobs' fruitarian lifestyle. Quick study: Fruitarianism is the practice of only eating fruits, seeds and nuts. Some die hard fruities will only eat fruit that has fallen from the tree because they don't want to harm the tree or plant. Yes, this is for real. It's hippee gone to heaven, literally. Apple founder and genius, Jobs, died of pancreatic cancer and Kutcher eerily landed himself in the hospital doubled over in pain from this diet with his "pancreatic levels out of whack." The moral of this story is moderation. And for the record I do hate the term "moderation" or maybe I fear it. I have addictive tendencies and don't want to admit to myself that I will have to police my eating habits for the rest of my life. From the high-protein, no carb Atkins diet to the master cleanse lemonade diet, ....I am the queen of extreme diets because I am the D student when it comes to balance and *arrgh* m-o-d-e-r-a-t-i-o-n. I will let Ashton Kutcher and Steve Jobs be a lesson to me and anyone in the same boat that extreme diets can cause major harm to your body. I've never ended up in the hospital in pain from a diet, but carrying around yo-yo diet pounds all day, every day is like living in a casket. Okay that was depressing...but it's real deal holyfield here. So one more time for the road. M-O-D-E-R-A-T-I-O-N

Take good care of yourself!

Stress@work

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Thu, 24 Jan 2013 05:46:00 +0000

I'm back!! Took some time off from blogging but I'm rested and ready to talk. So let's get to it.

There's a lot in the news these days about mental health, wellness and the impact of stress on the mind and body. Job stress can be the worst especially in this unstable economy. Most of us carry a certain amount of work stress and we cope with it by engaging in good and bad activities. Some of us exercise (GOOD) and some of us drink our problems away (BAD)...but I'm not pointing fingers at what you do to get by. I just refuse to believe that merely getting by should be the norm. Well here's what my daddy told me when I was just knee-high to a grasshopper. He said to get relief from stress on your job...get a second job! I don't care if you are an attorney by day and have a paper route on the weekends. My daddy's thinking is that having multiple streams of income actually helps you sleep better at night. Not just because you are tired as heck from working "10 jobs mon" but because you know that you are no longer completely dependent on ONE paycheck. Even if you are only making chump change on your side hustle, the point is your self confidence is boosted because you know you have other skills and means to fall back on or could potentially grow into a primary source of income if you ever lost your main job. People that have multiple streams of income tend to be more creative and offer more "out of the box" solutions to their company's problems and show more initiative. Why? These self-starters are not afraid of making a mistake. They know to succeed you have to fail but you have something to fall back on if things got tough. Hey, if you don't want to believe my daddy, you can believe God.

Ecclesiastes 11:6

Plant your seed in the morning and keep busy all afternoon, for you don’t know if profit will come from one activity or another—or maybe both.

Free your mind from work stresses. It may go along way for your career endeavors and your overall health and well being.

Take good care of yourself.

Get Shiny and Thick Hair in Your Kitchen

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Tue, 24 Jul 2012 02:17:00 +0000

Three months after giving birth to my little one, I noticed my hair looking rather dry and dull. I heard that while pregnancy does wonders for your hair, postpartum has quite the opposite effect. Many of my girlfriends with children complain about hair loss after birth. The rise in hormones during pregnancy keeps you from losing your hair. After delivery, the hormones return to normal levels, which allows the hair to fall out and return to the normal cycle. The normal hair loss that was delayed during pregnancy may fall out all at once therefore freaking you out! I don't know if any remedy to stop postpartum hair loss, but I have a great solution for dry and dull looking hair and getting you back on the road to hair growth. All of the ingredients are in your kitchen or local grocery store.

In a blender, add the following ingredients:

1/3 cup of olive oil
1 avocado
1/4 cup of honey
1 - 15oz can of coconut milk (full fat)

Blend all these ingredients until extremely smooth. Work the mixture into your dry hair (no need to wash hair). Put a shower cap over hair and let sit for 30 minutes to 2 hours. Rinse hair thoroughly. You can wash hair with a regular conditioner if you don't like the smell of the deep conditioner, but do not use shampoo to rinse. Style as usual. Get ready for some serious shine and moisture. Repeat once a week for best results. You can refrigerate the mixture you don't use.

Other quick tips:

Drink plenty of water.
Avoid hair and skin products that include the ingredient "Sodium Laureth Sulfate." It's a strong detergent that causes dull hair and other damage.

Take good care of yourself.

The Fibroid Invasion

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 00:24:00 +0000

I recall the early morning that I arrived at Holy Cross Hospital in October 2008. I was scheduled to have my two cantaloupe-sized uterine fibroids removed. I wasn’t scared, if anything I was relieved to finally to be getting rid of these unseen gremlins who had attached to my uterus and caused all types of physical pain and emotional worry. It was troubling. What was more troubling was there were several other young women in the waiting room that morning. The nurse told me there were nearly 35 patients scheduled that day for the same surgery I was having. I realized then that the fibroids are taking over.

Fibroids, most commonly uterine fibroids (although there are also breast fibroids), are non-cancerous tumors that grow on or within the muscle tissue of the uterus. According to the A.D.A.M. Medical Encyclopedia, “as many as 1 in 5 women may have fibroids during their childbearing years (the time after starting menstruation for the first time and before menopause). Half of women have fibroids by age 50.” Fibroids are more common among African-American women. Some statistics indicate that up to 80% of African-American women will develop uterine fibroids. These growth aliens can cause infertility and pregnancy complications if not treated.

Some woman can go through life with fibroids and never have a symptom and will never need treatment. We not so lucky gals will have one of the following symptoms that can upset your quality of life if not treated:

Spotting/ Bleeding between periods
Heavy menstrual bleeding sometimes with the passage of blood clots
Menstrual periods that may last longer than normal
Increased frequency of urination
Pelvic cramping or pain with periods
Sharp pains in the stomach
Fatigue due to anemia
Sensation of fullness or pressure in lower abdomen
Pain during sex

The causes of fibroids are unknown, but we do know that fibroids are sensitive to the hormone estrogen and therefore a woman with fibroids who is menstruating will continue to have growing fibroids. Or if you are a heavy meat eater or can't put down the milk and cheese then you are also likely to create a safe haven in your body for fibroids to thrive. Animal flesh, dairy, and other foods have natural estrogen and added hormones (thanks to the major food manufactures for the extra growth boost! NOT!).

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms,you should contact your primary physician or OB/Gyn as soon as possible. Back in the day, the only option to get rid of the fibroids was to have a hysterectomy. Science has come a long way and there a lot of less-invasive options available that will have you in and out of the hospital with all your goodies still intact and with the ability to conceive down the road if you choose.

Whether you have fibroids or not, there are things you can do to help prevent these nasty buggers from coming back or at least slow down the growth rate.

Maintain a healthy weight
Avoid foods that contain estrogen (here’s a list http://dogtorj.tripod.com/id45.html)
Discuss with your doctor the option of limiting birth control usage, hormone replacement drugs, spermicides, etc.
Avoid alcohol and tobacco products
Try stress reduction techniques
Incorporate apple cider vinegar/ lemon juice in your diet everyday to help eliminate toxins

Take good care of yourself.

Walking for the Mind

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 02:48:00 +0000

A walk in the park can do more than just burn a few calories. In times like these when we are staring upon an unstable financial market, record high rates of unemployment, and unusually harsh weather patterns, anxiety and stress can throw you into an overwhelming downward spiral. Equally important to your physical health, your mental health and spirit help you work through the challenges you encounter daily, cope with major stresses, and keep you thinking positive and smiling.

A stroll outside is just what the doctor ordered. Walking acts like an anti-depressant but without the nasty side effects and for once no health insurance is needed! A leisurely walk has therapeutic benefits that span all levels— physical, social, and psychological. When you move your body your brain releases endorphins that naturally make you feel full to the brim with happiness, confidence, and energy. Pharmaceutical companies couldn’t bottle this natural mood lift if they tried. According to a Public Health Report, The Relation of Physical Activity and Exercise to Mental Health, physical activity and exercise appear to alleviate symptoms associated with mild-to-moderate depression, improve self-concept and confidence and social skills, reduce symptoms of anxiety, and may alter some aspects of the stress response and ‘Type A’ behavior.

Get moving today! Three 10-minute walks a day can do wonders for your mind. There are several beautiful parks with scenic trails and walking loops in the Prince Georges area. To find the park closest to you, visit www.pgparks.com. Here are a few of my favorite walking spots. Hope to see you on the trails.

Watkins Regional Park – is located between MD-214 and MD-202, near the First Baptist Church of Glenarden. This park features a 2 mile walking loop trail. Several of its facilities are available to the public year-round: tennis courts and a baseball field, campgrounds and hiking trails, Old Maryland Farm and the Nature Center. During the summer there is a carousel, a working miniature train and a mini-golf course. A Festival of Lights is held each year, between November and December. 301 Watkins Park Drive, Upper Marlboro, MD 20774

Chesapeake Bay Critical Area Tour – The tour is open daily for hiking and bicycling, and open Sundays for vehicles. The tour connects Jug Bay Natural Area with Merkle Wildlife Sanctuary and features educational displays, observation towers and a 1,000-foot long wooden bridge across the marsh. Visitors can pick up a self-guided tour brochure from the Patuxent River Visitor's Center, and guided programs are available by reservation. 16000 Croom Airport Road, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772

Woodrow Wilson Bridge Trail – A 3.5 mile trail that extends from Oxon Hill Road across the Potomac River to the Huntington Metro Station in Virginia. The trail connects to the network of trails in Northern Virginia, including the Mount Vernon Trail. To access the trail in Maryland, there are at-grade road crossings at Oxon Hill Road and National Harbor Boulevard. For more information, call 301-669-2255.

Take good care of yourself.

What Do You Know About St. John's Wort?

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Wed, 18 May 2011 03:44:00 +0000

I received a request for information on St. John's Wort. I'm happy about this request because I have taken this herbal remedy (a yellow flowering plant) on and off for about 9-10 years. St. John's Wort, also known as Hypericum Perforatum, has absolutely nothing to do with warts and everything to do with stabilizing moods. For over 2,000 years, people have used St. John's Wort to treat mental disorders, nerve pain, depression, sleep disorders, and to treat wounds, burns, and bites. The main use of the herb today is to treat mild to moderate depression. The herbal remedy comes in a tablet/capsule, liquid extract, and in tea bags.

There is an ongoing debate around the effectiveness of St. John's Wort. Some tests have shown that it's useful in treating mild to moderate depression and even severe depression, while other studies say it is no more effective than a placebo. In my personal experience with the herbal remedy, it is effective for treating minor bouts with depression and regulating moods. As a Gemini, my mood swings can be a little off the hook and I have used St. John's Wort to decrease my anxiety and keep my mind calm. The plant has practically no side effects and more affordable and safer than prescription antidepressants. I've included the formal definition and symptoms of depression below. And for the record, most adults will deal with some degree of depression at some point in their lives.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, depression is " a medical condition that affects nearly 21 million American adults each year. Mood, thoughts, physical health, and behavior all may be affected. Symptoms of depression commonly include:

Persistent sad, anxious, or "empty" feelings

Feelings of hopelessness and/or pessimism

Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and/or helplessness

Restlessness or irritability

Loss of interest or pleasure in activities that the person once enjoyed

Fatigue and decreased energy

Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and/or making decisions

Insomnia, early–morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping

Overeating, or appetite loss

Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts

Persistent aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease with treatment.

Depression comes in several forms and its symptoms and severity can vary from person to person. For example:

In major depression (also called major depressive disorder), people experience symptoms that interfere with their ability to work, study, sleep, eat, and take pleasure in activities they once enjoyed. Symptoms last for at least 2 weeks but frequently last for several months or longer.
In dysthymia (also called dysthymic disorder), a less severe, but more chronic form of depression, people experience symptoms that are not as disabling but keep them from functioning well or feeling good. Symptoms last at least 2 years. Many people with dysthymia also have episodes of major depression.
In bipolar disorder (also called manic–depressive illness), people have periods of depressive symptoms that alternate or may co-exist with periods of mania. Symptoms of mania include abnormally high levels of excitement and energy, racing thoughts, and behavior that is impulsive and inappropriate.

In addition, milder forms of depression exist that fall into the category of minor depression. In minor depression, people experience the same symptoms as major depression, but they are fewer in number and are less disabling. Symptoms last at least 6 months but less than 2 years continuously."

You can take anywhere from 200mg - 1000mg of St. John's Wort daily. I recommend starting at 200mg and working your way up to 1000mg so that you can monitor the effects. I'm a big fan of journaling and if you are having major ups and downs in your life, I encourage you to write down your day's events and how you felt/handled different situations. Journaling will help you see patterns and trends, and help you monitor the effectiveness of the herb.

Do not mix St. John's Wort or any other herbal remedies with prescription antidepressants or other prescription drugs like birth control pills. However, if you do decide to mix drugs please consult your doctor to see if the drug interactions are harmful.

Take good care of yourself.

Where did my roll go?

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Wed, 11 May 2011 03:46:00 +0000

Most people get on the scale to measure their weight loss progress. Me...I actually count my back rolls. I'm down a roll! Ohhhh Yeaaahhh! Or for some people....they try on their skinny jeans. Whatever your method for determining if your dieting and exercise is paying off, do you ever wonder where the fat actually goes? I mean we hear the term "burn" the fat. But where does the melted fat go?

Well I did some research and here's what the Mayo clinic says:

When you burn more calories than you consume, your body uses fat (triglycerides) for energy. This causes your fat cells to shrink. In turn, triglycerides are broken down into two different substances — glycerol and fatty acids — which are absorbed into your liver, kidneys and muscle tissue. From there, the glycerol and fatty acids are further broken down by chemical processes that ultimately produce energy for your body. These activities generate heat, which helps maintain your body temperature. The resulting waste products — water and carbon dioxide — are excreted in urine and sweat or exhaled from your lungs. [http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/body-fat/AN01327]

So to sum up...fat turns into heat and then whatever is left over comes out in your urine, sweat, and breath. So now we know and this underscores the importance of drinking lots of water everyday to help your body remove the fat through our URINE. It's key to exercise to remove the fat through our SWEAT. We have to breathe deeply and fully to push the fat out through our BREATH.

Take good care of yourself.

My pee is yellow...Am I taking the right multivitamin??

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Mon, 09 May 2011 01:48:00 +0000

Multivitamins are a big source of confusion for most folks. There are so many options to choose from and how can you really be sure that your body is absorbing all the good minerals and nutrients. To start multivitamins are not to replace a healthy diet of fresh vegetables, meats, and grains. Rather supplements should be used to fill any gaps that you are not getting from your diet. Supplements are becoming more and more important as our food is less nutrient dense due to the lack of nutrients and minerals in soil.

First, when shopping for a multivitamin check the label to ensure it offers at least 100% of the daily value of the following vitamins:

B1 (thiamin)
B2 (riboflavin)
B3 (niacin)
B6 (at least 100 mg)
B12
Vitamin C
Vitamin D
Vitamin E (less than 100 mg)
Folic acid
Iron (18 mg)
Magnesium (at least 100 mg)
Beta-carotene (no more than 15,000 IUs, with no more than 4000 IUs coming from retinol. Retinol can be toxic)
Copper (0.9 mg)
Selenium (50 mcg)
Zinc (11 mg)
Calcium (Take a calcium pill separate from your multivitamin. You need about 1000-1200 mg daily of calcium and that won't won't fit in a multi. The best calcium supplements contain vitamin D as well for better calcium absorption.)

You don't need anything else in your multi!

Here are some other tips for choosing your multi.

Look for the fake stuff. Check the label for artificial color, flavor, sugar, or synthetic ingredients. If you see anything fake or sugary...don't buy it.

What else is in your multi other than the vitamins and minerals listed above? Make sure there aren't a ton of other ingredients. If so, do your homework and look up those items.

Vitamin E is a tricky one. Manufacturers love to put synthetic vitamin E in your multi. But here's what to look for: d-alpha tocopherol is the natural good form of vitamin E; dl-alpha tocopherol is the synthetic version. There are other forms of vitamin E....so just make sure to get the d-alpha kind!

Minerals. Minerals that end in -oxide or -sulfate are lower quality. Avoid!

There are 20 different types of calcium. Avoid calcium oxide because you can't freaking absorb it. Also skip calcium carbonate as it can cause kidney stones and bone spurs.

My pee is yellow! Your pee should be yellow after taking a multi. All this means is your body has absorbed the B2 (riboflavin) and is getting rid of the excess vitamin that it couldn't absorb. It's normal and okay!

Take a multi with a meal. It's best to take a multi with a meal so that you don't get a tummy ache.

Drink lots of water. When taking a multi, be sure to drink lots and lots of water. You don't want to put any extra strain on your liver by ingesting lots of minerals and vitamins.

Take good care of yourself!

My lunch sucks today

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 03:28:00 +0000

Once and awhile I find myself pissed at what I brought for lunch. Baked chicken and boring green beans. I was so disappointed last week I almost skipped lunch altogether, and I'm not one to miss a meal:-) Not wanting a repeat of last week's last minute throw-together crap, I got on it today. For 2 hours this afternoon, I planned, bought, and cooked my lunch for a 4-day work week. At first 2 hours seemed like a major time commitment during my precious weekend, but I just saved myself a whole bunch stress, headaches, and probably some money by preparing my lunches and snacks in advance...that I'm actually excited to eat. By all means batch cooking isn't a novel idea, but in busy times we tend to ignore our healthy habits and fall back on what's quick and easy. Problem with the "open it and microwave it meals" (processed TV dinners or fast food or carryout) is that they include way too much salt, sugar, and crappy oils. Not only can it burn up your behind...but your wallet too.

One thing I've learned in my many readings on nutrition and mental wellness, you need to make food a no-brainer. Once you give your mind time to think about what to eat, you are more likely to deviate from healthy meals and give in to cravings. Until healthy eating becomes part of your permanent lifestyle like showering in the morning, it's best to take the guess work out of diet and prepare your meals early.

Pictured above are my meals for this week. I prepared AM and PM snacks, and an entrée for lunch. AM snacks consist of 2 boiled eggs and a piece of fruit, lunch consists of 2 broiled cilantro and onion turkey burgers on top of a pile of kale mixed with a tad bit of olive oil and apple cider vinegar along with a few cherry tomatoes, and the PM snack is a can of tuna or sardines mixed with mustard and black olives, and a sliced red/orange bell pepper. Veggies and protein baby!...veggies and protein.

2 hours in advance = lunch is gonna be good this week.

Take good care of yourself.

Getting to know L-Carnitine...your weight loss buddy

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Sun, 20 Mar 2011 22:51:00 +0000

Carnitine, often referred to as L-Carnitine, is an essential element that breaks down fat within the body and helps to transport fat through the body to be converted into energy. Proper levels of carnitine in the body will help to promote overall physical fitness, as any fat you eat will be efficiently used to fuel the functions of the body. L-carnitine is widely used as a natural method for weight loss since it enables the burning of fat at much higher speeds. It can also decrease your food cravings, increase your energy during exercise, and increase your metabolic rate. In the same way, carnitine is used to promote heart health and in treating and managing angina, arrhythmias and other heart ailments. It is also used by athletes to promote further sports endurance. And word on the street is it can also support male fertility…way to go Carnitine!

For the folks that need a scientific explanation… l-carnitine is an essential amino acid. Amino acids are used in every cell of your body and are used to build the proteins you need to survive. L-carnitine transports long-chain fatty acids across the mitochondrial (mitochondria are known as the powerhouses of the cell) membrane to be metabolized. L-carnitine aids in the release of stored body fat, triglycerides, into the bloodstream for energy.

L-carnitine is available in the following food sources: red meat, diary products, avocado, and tempeh. With a well-balanced diet, you should have sufficient amounts of l-carnitine in your body. But then again how many of us are eating well-balanced diets? That said, adding about 500 - 2000 mg of L-carnitine to your daily regimen will ensure you have a full army of fat transporters to get your body right for the summer…or for the men, help get your little soldiers in order.

How to Take L-Carnitine. Start by taking two 500 mg capsules of l-carnitine before or with breakfast. After one week the dosage can be increased, if needed, to two 500 mg capsules before breakfast and lunch. Increase your dose of l-carnitine gradually until you see a difference in weight loss, energy and overall well-being. Taking l-carnitine after 4:00 pm may make it harder to fall asleep at night, so try not to take carnitine then. This is the only side effect of taking too much carnitine is too much energy. When possible, use l-carnitine in the carnitine tartrate form, which is the purest available. You can find l-carnitine at your local vitamin store...make sure to get L-Carnitine and not Acetyl l-carnitine (different supplement).

Take good care of yourself.

For my soda drinkers....a healthy substitute

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 05:02:00 +0000

Don't want to give up your soda, but could do without the 10-15lbs that soda can add to your waistline each year? You might want to try out Zevia. It's a delicious carbonated soda sweetened with stevia instead of the dangerous high fructose corn syrup or artificial sweeteners like aspartame, Splenda, Nutrisweet, etc. Unlike most sodas and diet drinks, Zevia contains no artificial colors, no sugar substitutes, or preservatives. It has NO CALORIES, no net carbs, little to no sodium (depending on the flavor), and no fat. Tastes like a soda, but no harmful effects...uh, I'll drink to that!!

Zevia comes in the following flavors: Cola, Ginger Root Beer, Black Cherry, Orange, Twist (lemon/lime), Dr, Zevia, Ginger Ale. You can pick up a 6-pack of Zevia at your local health food store.

For those wanting a little bit more info on Stevia. Here is the quick and dirty. Stevia is a South American herb that been used as a sweetener for ages. The leaves of this small green plant have a delicious taste that can be 30 times sweeter than sugar. The body does not metabolize the sweet glycosides from the stevia leaf or any of its processed forms...so there is no calories! Stevia doesn't adversely affect blood glucose levels and is safe for diabetics. In the United States, Stevia is sold as a nutritional supplement. Therefore if you want to pick up bottle or packets of Stevia for the house to include in your everyday cooking, check the vitamin aisle at your local grocery store or health food store.

Take good care of yourself.

deTOXify!!

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 04:30:00 +0000

Are you tired, sluggish? Gaining weight? Feeling confused, distracted or disoriented? Dealing with acne breakouts? Or just got off track from your health and wellness goals? You might need to detox. There are a lot of different levels and intensities of detoxification that depend on the time you want to commit to the detox regimen, money you want to spend on ingredients and products, and what your goals are. I'm going to try and provide tips for a variety of situations and lifestyles. That said, detoxification is like meatloaf. It's only as good as what you put in it...so don't expect long-term results from a quick one-time change. Several small changes repeated over time are better and more sustainable in the end.

I Need a Quick Pick Me Up, Not Looking for Any Lifestyle or Diet Changes. If you fall into this boat you don't have a lot of time and just need something simple to boost your spirits and get your mind right.

Google infrared saunas in your city and make an appointment to sit in the heat for 20-30 min. Infrared heat is awesome, it's like sitting on the beach but under an umbrella. You get the heat without the unhealthy ultraviolet rays. These saunas have so many detox benefits including relieving pain, sweating out fats and toxins, reducing stress. You'll feel GGGREEAATT! [In my tony the tiger voice]
Invest in Green Vibrance. This product is amazing. I've been using it for years and it provide a serious pick me up and quickly. I add a scoop of it to my protein shake or you can make mix it with apple juice. Green Vibrance pretty much improves everything from your digestive system to your bones. And it has a ridiculous amount of trace vitamins and probiotics. Check the link above for more info. You can get at most major health food stores.
Add an air purifier or air filtering houseplants to your home and office. It makes a huge difference in the quality of air ....that goes to your brain and circulates your blood more effectively. Plants to consider are the Peace Lilly, English Ivy, and the Spider Plan. Honeywell and Whirlpool make pretty decent room purifiers.

I've been overdoing it on processed/fast food and alcohol lately. I need to get my body on track. Here's where we get serious. If you fall into this category, you are willing to commit to a 2-week regimen where you'll make reasonable diet and lifestyle changes to help you get back into your regular routine. Suggested regimen [from Dr. Ann Louise Gittleman's Fat Flush Plan] to follow for 14 days consecutively, includes:

Mix and drink 56oz of water with 8 oz unsweetened cranberry juice per day.
Eat the following per day:

8 oz of lean meats (e.g. free range, and hormone free chicken and turkey, grass-fed beef, lamb)
Unlimited vegetables (e.g. kale, asparagus, broccoli, mushrooms, tomatoes, etc.)
2 whole portions of fruit (1 cup of berries, apple, 1/2 grapefruit, orange, peach)
2 eggs per day (whole egg; omega 3 enriched)
1 tablespoon of flaxseed oil twice daily (can't cook with this oil, but you can pour on salad, add to protein shake)
No dairy (e.g. milk, cheese, yogurt)
No sugar, carbs, or starches (e.g.bread, pasta, potatoes, corn, candy, cereal)
No sodas, artificial sweeteners, the only exception is SteviaPlus
No alcohol
No salt and pepper, this includes seasonings that include salt and pepper. Instead use cayenne, dried mustard, garlic, cinnamon, ginger, cumin, apple cider vinegar, lemon, dill, cloves.

Every morning and before you go to bed, mix and drink 8 oz of unsweetened cranberry water with 2 teaspoons of psyllium husks or 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseeds.
Also in the morning, drink 1 cup of hot water with juice from half a lemon.
Take the following vitamins: evening primose oil (balances hormones and burns fat), a multi-vitamin, L-carnitine, and chromium.
After 2 weeks, feel free to continue on the regimen until you are near your goal weight or transition back to wellness plan that you were originally one. You can also move to the second phase of the Fat Flush Plan. For more information, meal plans, and recipes, check out the Fat Flush Plan book. I'm a huge fan of this regimen because it truly detoxes your liver and kidneys allowing those organs to do what they are supposed to do which is remove toxins and fat from your body. The cranberry juice and supplements help to balance your hormones which cause weight gain and among other issues. And in case you're wondering, when you do this fat flush plan you will lose water weight and fat quickly. I lost 15lbs in 2 weeks and had tons of energy!

Please Help! I'm Out of Control! Something Has to Change! If this is you, then you need to take a deep breath, close your eyes, and visualize the life you want. You've yo-yo dieted all your life and are sick of it. You have gotten used to feeling like "shyt" and have accepted your current situation. You are in need of an emotional, spiritual, and physical detox.

Draw a picture of the life you want. Breakout the crayons and draw the kind of house you want to live in, what you do for a living, what your partner looks like, what you look like...the idea is to visualize it and then CLAIM it. Tape this picture to your bedroom door or someplace that you will see everyday.
Go for a 20 minute walk outside everyday, no matter the weather. Getting outside to breath fresh air and getting sun on your face rejuvenates you! Every 2 weeks increase your walk time, until you reach an hour. Then start speeding up your pace.
Clean out your house. Get a trashcan and go through each room and throw out negative items (alcohol bottles, items that bring bad memories, any food with over 4 grams of sugar per serving, potato chips, white flour, white sugar, salt shaker, vegetable/canola/peanut/safflower oil, old cosmetics, old clothes that you haven't worn in over a year, old hair products, products that have parabens or sulfates in them). Throw out the negative stuff, so you have room for the good stuff as it comes into your life.
Tell your loved ones that you are making a change. Once you tell people you will feel more obligated to stick with your word.
Follow the regimen listed above until you are within 10lbs of your goal weight. Then start adding salt, healthy carbs (sweet potatoes, spaghetti squash, beans) and fats (olive oil, nuts) into your diet.

Take good care of yourself.

“You think too much.”

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 22:04:00 +0000

That’s what my momma told me back when I was about 13 years old. I’ll never forget it because at the time I thought it was a strange and absurd statement. What can possibly be wrong with thinking things through, planning ahead, working it out…? I mean I was an honor student, loved to read, fast learner, just an intellectual person. So needless to say I thought my momma was crazy and maybe even a bit jealous of my mental skillz. Well, as they say…momma is always right! What I thought was a blessing, nearly 20 plus years later, feels more like a curse. I will analyze something as small as what kind of vacuum to buy seven different ways to Sunday. Over-thinking is one of the main reasons I hate sitting in traffic…. I have way too much time alone with my thoughts. My mind looks like fireworks on the 4^th of July….freaking chaotic! Problems, people, reminders….continually popping off in my fragile mind.

And you may ask, what does thinking a lot have to do with health? Mental wellness plays a huge part of your overall health. There is nothing wrong with being thorough, planning ahead, and being conscious of you and your family’s needs. Especially for woman, we just naturally are more emotional, nurturers, and more likely to over-think. Plus we are more likely to define ourselves based on our relationships with others (e.g. I’m a mother, daughter, wife, banker, etc.) which gives us that much more to worry about with our many roles. But like everything else it’s a balancing act. Over-thinking, anxiety, stress, and worry can cause lack of sleep, binge eating, over indulgence in alcohol, hair loss, depression, etc. How do you know if you suffer from over-thinking, anxiety and worry. Have you ever done any of the following?

Couldn’t fall asleep or wake up in the middle of the night because you just got a $1500 medical bill in the mail?
Went on a first date and as he ordered the appetizer, you said to yourself this guy would make a good husband, provider, father for your current or future children?
Bought 50 rolls of toilet paper because they were on sale? Or 3 sets of your favorite lip gloss because you just know they will discontinue it?
Packed a large suitcase filled with 5 outfits for an overnight trip?
Stalked someone whether on the internet or drove by their house?
Went to a party and sat against the wall the whole time because everyone was lame, except for you of course?
Put off completing a job, doing an assignment, writing a paper because it seemed too complicated?
Took 30 min to decide between Colgate extra whiting with baking soda and Crest extra whiting with fluoride?
Got 8 second opinions before you decided to get that mole removed from your arm?
Instantly think something is wrong with you when someone is staring at you.
You’re still playing this statement from your co-worker in your mind, “girl, your hair color is interesting and suits you.” …she made the statement over a year ago.
You told your man you love him, and he responded with “ditto.” You call all your girlfriends to help you decipher or not if he’s cheating on you.

If any of the above or similar actions pertain to you then, you may suffer from over-thinking. And seriously, this type of mental traffic can cause physical and physiological issues if you don’t get it under control. Over-thinking typically consists of negative thoughts which just bring more negativity in your world. A few tips to break free from those negative thoughts:

Exercise. Ever heard the saying “a tired dog is a happy dog.” The same goes for humans. When you get moving during the day and burn some of that extra energy, you are literally too tired to focus on the petty stuff. Exercise distracts you from your problems and gets you high on those happy endorphins.
Schedule a time to over-think. Give yourself an hour a day to just go hog-wild with your thoughts then cut it off.
Start a journal. Write your thoughts down and close the book. Transferring your thoughts to paper can be very cleansing for your mind and you don’t feel like you’re ignoring or forgetting about your feelings, ideas, or thoughts. Writing down your commitments and thoughts is paying honor to those things.
Let go, let God. Pray on it. Enough said. And for the spiritual folks…meditate on it!
Stop comparing yourself. You are not the Jones and the Jones probably have a dead body in the basement. Try not to judge yourself based on others it only causes unnecessary upset. You are your own measuring tape. You set your own standards.
Stop throwing pity parties. Rather than waiting for someone to rescue you or change your situation. You have to help yourself. …you’d be surprised how many people will jump on your boat once you decide to do you!
Lower your expectations. Not everybody is going to measure up to your standards. You will have no friends or lover(s) if you don’t realize that not everyone shares your values. Accept people for who they are and move on. And please believe your folks probably have issues with you too, but love you just the same.
Just do it. If you have a problem, take action. A small step is better than no step.
Put positive affirmations everywhere. Negative thoughts can bring you down emotionally and physically and we don’t even notice because it’s part of our daily subconscious routine (it's deep). Stop it now. Take a dry erase marker and write “you are beautiful” on your bathroom mirror, change your computer password to “IAmAwesome#1,”put a post it on your refrigerator door “How did I get so freaking fine and fabulous!” Pinch yourself, every time you say something negative about yourself.
Forgive and move on. Somebody did you wrong. Don’t be like NeNe on the Real Housewives of Atlanta. Forgive people for their mistakes and go on your merry way. Nene needs to forgive Greg…it’s messed up her whole life, for real.
Listen to your thoughts. Is that your voice or other people telling you how to live your life? Recognize your voice. It’s the only one that matters in the end.

Take good care of yourself.

Low-Carb Mashed Potatoes...

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 14:21:00 +0000

Sike! Silly rabbit, there is no such thing as a low-carb potato, so sorry if I got you excited. However, the other night I made a really nice substitution that had the same "comforting feeling" as a creamy batch of mashed potatoes. And I could eat the whole pot if I wanted to....and in my usual greedy fashion, I wanted to and finished the job.

CAULIFLOWER. By itself, it's an okay vegetable. It's one of those vegetables that you never here the waiter mention as the "vegetable of the day", it's rarely on my grocery list, but I can deal with it as long as carrots and broccoli are mixed in with it. But Sunday afternoon after reading a bunch of Atkins success stories, I had a low-carb vision of my new body. Although I'm not following Atkins, I decided to incorporate some of the high-protein, low-carb practices into my routine. And before I knew I was giving thanks to the good ole' cruciferous flower bud that only contains goodness (per half cup):

15 calories
0 saturated fat
0 cholesterol
15mg sodium
3g carbs
1g fiber
1g sugar
and loaded with vitamin C! (45% of your daily needed value)

Here's the Sunday Night Cauliflower Special recipe! I'm sure it's good on the other nights of the week :)

1- 1 lb bag of frozen or fresh cauliflower
1- 3oz package of cream cheese
salt and pepper to taste

Boil the cauliflower for about 15 min, till it gets really soft. Then place the cream cheese in a separate bowl. When the cauliflower is nice and soft, drain the excess water, and poor the hot cauliflower in the bowl with the cream cheese. Mix thoroughly until smooth, or you can keep a little chunky....it's whatever you like! You can also break out the hand mixer and puree it if that's the texture you like. Then salt and pepper to taste. Optional ingredients that would go nicely but I didn't try are adding shredded cheese and/or sour cream to make it real rich. Again this is a low-carb recipe, not low fat. I'm not a big fan of low fat anything. GOOD FAT IS GOOD FOR YOU! However, cheese and sour cream do have saturated fat and lots of sodium, so take it easy on the dairy products.

If you care and want to keep reading, here are some benefits of eating cauliflower. In general cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli, brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and cabbage) may lower overall cancer risk, including colon and prostate cancer. Cauliflower contains a high amount of vitamin C, folate, fiber, and complex carbohydrates. And its even a antioxidant!

Cauliflower is available year round, but better and more plentiful in the Fall season. When selecting cauliflower, look for heads that are white or creamy white, firm, compact, and heavy for their size. There should not be any discoloration on the head or leaves. Like most fresh produce, for the best flavor and to get the most nutrients, eat as soon as possible. Cauliflower will keep for up to five days if stored in the crisper section of the refrigerator. Store it in an open or perforated plastic bag. Keep the head stem-side up to prevent moisture form collecting on it.

Take good care of yourself!

"O"MG....It's Ladies Night!

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Sun, 13 Feb 2011 20:02:00 +0000

Now ladies, it's real easy to blame your partner when you don't reach an orgasm. Ever said "I need more foreplay," "I can't just turn it on and off," "the romance needs to start during the day," "we need to switch it up...it's too routine," etc, etc? Well, I'm here to say that you can take control of your own pleasure experiences, regardless of your partner's endowment, creativity, or as Flavor Flav says "romantiCAL" abilities.

There are many reasons woman don't reach the big "O's" or have rather dull orgasms when they do climax. Yes, orgasms from oral sex is all good, but it's not the kind that make you want to cry, scream loud enough to wake your neighbors, or rush home and smack your mama! These tips are helpful for woman that have low sex drives, weakened pelvic muscles because of childbirth or age, or just want to spice up their love life.

Not to get all scientific and psychological on y'all, but a lot of woman suffer from slight depression and don't know it. We all get stressed out once and awhile, we eat poorly, don't exercise, or we engage in unhealthy lifestyles (excessive drinking, smoking, use of prescription drugs). I threw in prescription drugs because meds (e.g. birth control pills or meds for anxiety/depression) can interfere with your natural hormones causing a low sex drive. These unhealthy lifestyles can cause the following:

Low dopamine levels. Dopamine is the neurotransmitter from your brain that signals that whatever activity you just did was good one. It basically makes us feel good...so when we do things like eat a brownie or have good sex, dopamine is released in the brain.
Unbalanced serotonin levels. Serotonin is another neurotransmitter in the brain. It enhances alertness, improves mood, and makes people feel happy. A balanced amount of serotonin helps us handle stress, regulate appetites, and makes us feel energized. When your serotonin is rock bottom you are usually suffering from severe depression...when it's too high, you may be super efficient and getting things done; however, you are too amped to have sex because you're thinking about reorganizing your closet.
Low free testosterone levels. This is the hormone that makes you crave and desire sex. Men have way higher amounts of this hormone than woman which probably why they think about sex ALL THE FREAKING TIME. This is the mojo that you need to get your groove back. Free testosterone is the ratio of your total level of testosterone in your body and the level of sex-hormone binding globulin (SGBH) present. The lower the SGBH, the higher the free testosterone.

So now that we've had that brief science lesson. Here are some tips for getting your "O"MG!!

Take lots and lots of fish oil everyday. Fish oil increases your dopamine levels. Consider it your holistic Viagra. When I say a lot, I mean 2500mg EPA, 2000mg DHA per day. Check the bottle to see how much EPA and DHA are in each capsule of fish oil. Be prepared to take over 6 capsules a day (2 at each meal). If you weigh more than 230 lbs, take up to 3400mg EPA and 2600mg DHA in your fish oil capsules.
Take a calcium, zinc, and magnesium (1000/400/15mg) supplement everyday.
Take an iron supplement (27mg) every 2-3 days.
Eat 1/2 oz of dark chocolate everyday to increase serotonin levels.
Eat nuts, and lean protein. Ever notice how men that eat a lot of meat have that "strong, manly, lumberjack" sex appeal. It's in the meat. Lean meat raises your free testosterone hormone levels.
Avoid the following things as much as possible because they kill serotonin levels and increase the SBGH:

Starchy and sugary foods
Anti-depressant meds
Caffeine and herbal teas that have caffeine (gingko and ginseng)
Excessive alcohol

2-3 days lift light weights. Added muscle also increases free testosterone levels. Don't worry light weights with many reps won't turn you into She-Ra!
Invest in vaginal cone weights or Kegel exerciser to strengthen your pelvic muscles. This will allow you to control your sensations during sex. I recommend: GyneFlex with VTP (R) - Regular Strength

I know this is a sensitive subject so feel free to send me a message if you have questions or leave an anonymous comment and I will respond. It's your right to have a great sex life and when that's in check, the usual daily annoyances don't seem so bad!

Take good care of yourself!

Are You a Drug Addict?

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 02:32:00 +0000

Are you addicted to drugs? You're saying, "of course not....I have the occasional drink, but that's all. And I may have smoked something green and funky back in the day, but in no way am I an addict." So you're not a drug addict, right...but have you ever found yourself intending to eat 1-3 cookies and then a few minutes later you've inhaled the whole sleeve of Girl Scout Cookies? Or have you started your morning with a bagel with cream cheese and then in the afternoon had an unrelenting taste for potato salad, or mac n cheese, or pound cake? If you're like me, you may not have even noticed the connection.

You, me, and most Americans are actually addicted to a drug. A legal drug you call SUGAR! Recent studies show that sugar has very similar addictive properties as alcohol and cocaine. You literally can't eat just one of anything with a ton of sugar or processed flour in it because your brain won't let you walk away. We are CRACKHEADS for sugar and flour....I can't lie...once in a while I catch myself doing a little two-step when I'm devouring a soft chewy cookie. I don't even dance when I get my paycheck...but I dance for cookies? WTF?

Why do our drug dealers AKA food manufacturers add so much sugar to our foods. I'll tell you why...MONEY. The American culture is trained to believe that lighter and whiter is better. But guess what, the real sugar cane is BROWN, the real wheat flour is BROWN, the natural desserts come in all SHAPES and COLORS just like the American population...apples, pears, strawberries, plums, bananas and grapes. Have you ever really seen a piece of WHITE fruit?? If you have, please show it to me. Our dealers didn't think Americans would buy BROWN stuff probably because BLACK and BROWN just weren't acceptable colors way back when. So our dealers processed the natural food stripping the fiber and healthy stuff, and adding more addictive chemicals so you'd keep buying their products over the competitors. And you're left with fat rolls you can't seem to shake, a weird obsession with sweets and carbs, crazy mood swings, fatigue, and a personal shame as if it's your fault.

Well its not your fault. We are the victims here and the best way to shake the addiction is to AVOID the WHITE stuff. Let me reiterate WHITE is BAD and COLOR is good...yes I said it. And this rule does not pertain to the color of the sugar packets in the office kitchen. The PINK packet (saccharin), BLUE packet (aspartame), YELLOW packets (splenda)...are seriously the devil in disguise. They cause all types of problems including headaches, menstrual irregularities, dizziness, MS, and fibromylagia. Have you ever noticed that people drinking diet sodas are usually overweight? You are better off having a regular Coke or Pepsi.

If you are participating in sugar binges on a regular basis, I suggest the following:

Remove all the white sugar and white flour from your home, and replace with Stevia and whole wheat flour. Stevia doesn't impact your blood sugar levels. Stevia is natural and extracted from the Stevia herb.
Remove white rice from your home. Replace with brown rice, quinoa, millet, barley, aramanth.
Remove all diet sodas from your home.
If you eat carbs (potatoes, whole wheat toast), pair the carbs with a protein (chicken, fish, eggs, beef) to keep your blood sugar levels stable.
If you eat a sweet potato or white potato, make sure to also eat the skin...you can mash the potatoes with the skin...it's just as good and you get the fiber that's in the skin.

Let's Talk Shyt!

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 18:58:00 +0000

How often do you have a bowel movement (BM)? I know a lot of folks don't like talking about the subject, but we're all human and we all do it. Some more than others and that's what this tip is about! I notice that my dog craps after every meal. He eats twice a day and he has a BM twice a day. This is the ideal pattern that most Americans don't enjoy. If you aren't going to the bathroom at least once a day, that means there is serious waste building up in your body which can cause a lot of issues. The backup of toxins in your body can cause acne, bad breath and body odor (some people's breath can really smell like shyt!), headaches, stomach pains, bloating, low energy and low spirits, weight gain, and other chronic illnesses.

There are lots of reasons why constipation can occur: lack of fiber, fats, and oils in your diet, insufficient water intake, stress, lack of good bacteria, too much processed foods and preservatives, caffeine, etc. Here are some tips for getting you regular:

Drink half your body weight in ounces of water per day. If you weigh 200 lbs, then you need to drink 100oz of water per day. Remember our body is made of mostly water...it's the best stuff on earth.
Eat at least one raw piece of fruit per day. It's important to eat fruit on an empty stomach, first thing in the morning and then have the rest of your breakfast 5 - 10 min later. The reason, fruit doesn’t combine well with other foods. Fruit contains simple sugars that require no digestion. Thus, they will not stay for a long time in the stomach. Other foods, such as foods rich in fat, carbs and meat, will stay in the stomach for a longer period of time because they require more digestion. So if you eat fruit after a meal, the fruit sugar will stay for too long in the stomach and ferment. This is why people experience digestive trouble when eating fruit that way.
Take 2 tablespoons of fish oil, flaxseed oil, or psyllium husks per day. This keeps your body lubricated!! And fish oil can lubricate everything ladies... I mean everything! (That's another tip for another day :))
Eat as much raw veggies as you can everyday. I don't care if you walk around the office with a carrot hanging out your mouth. Get it in!

I don't know about you but I like to take a good BM and afterwards...yes I will take a quick glimpse to check out the color, shape, smell, and anything else I can notice. Your craps can tell you a lot about your health believe it or not. If it floats you are eating too much oil and fats. A healthy stool should be medium brown or the color of what you ate last. It should be shaped like a banana and easy to pass. Passing several ping pong ball-sized stool can mean lack of fiber and your waste is spending too much time in the intestines. Pencil -thin stool is not good..could mean you have colon cancer. I found a good article on what you should look for: http://health.msn.com/health-topics/digestive-health/articlepage.aspx?cp-documentid=100182622

Take good care of yourself!

S.O.S! Save Our Skin...from Hot Showers!

noreply@blogger.com (GiGi) — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 14:04:00 +0000

I love starting and ending my day with a nice warm shower. For years I thought that was the "cleanest" part of my day. Then I started to notice my hair getting harder, my skin getting drier and rougher. The culprit...CHLORINE. Unfortunately, our water sources are heavily treated with chlorine to kill all the bacteria and nasty stuff. Chlorine (aka Bleach) is a toxic and abrasive chemical substance that irritates our skin and lungs. When you take a shower, the heat opens up your pores and your skin absorbs chlorine from the water and the steam. This heating process repeated over time causes skin tissue and cellular level damage to our bodies (e.g. dry skin, premature wrinkles, yeast infections, asthma, and even cancer). A hot shower can be compared to sitting in a gas chamber as you inhale hydrogen chloride in your lungs. No good.

We shouldn't be bathing in these chemicals if we can help it, nor should we be drinking this chlorine-infused water. You can keep your skin supple and soft, and save your health by adding a filter to your shower head. You can find filters at your local health food store or even at Home Depot, Lowe's, Target or Wal-Mart. Also, think about adding a water filter to your kitchen sink or if you want to spend a few more dollars...have water delivered to your home.

Shower Filter Recommendation:
http://enviroproductsinc.com/

Drinking Water Recommendations:
http://www.drinkmorewater.com/
http://www.culligan.com/

Take good care of yourself!