Shen Life

It works!

2012-02-17T11:15:00.002-07:00

Here's a story from a recent Shen Life Coaching Client, in his words:

"Back on the 13th of November 2011 I had the opportunity to reconnect with two people that dramatically changed the course of my life. I met Stephen and Erica, and the early stages of the Shen Life teachings/principles 7 years ago at their studio in Montrose, CA. I knew even back then what they taught and represented was full of integrity and had the potential to change my life, but, at the time, I was too headstrong to embrace it fully. I lost touch with them for a while but the messages and teachings of their workshops continued to saturate and drive my awareness.

I love the old adage, "when the student is ready the teacher will appear;" that is exactly what happened. I have been studying consciousness for quite some time when I landed in Chinese Medicine School in the fall of 2008. Shifting out of my first two careers as a professional volleyball player and coach took some major work. To put it plainly, I was lost and on a reckless road of self destruction and self sabotage. I was completely depressed, in spite of having what appeared to be a successful life on the surface. I have amazing athletic talent, I'm tall, personable, and likable, but inside I was dying, driven by an emptiness, a void that eventually led me back to myself and the Shen Life program.

In November, Stephen, Erica and I sat down and began to engage in a series of conversations that sparked an internal fire and truly reignited my desire and passion to live and love life. I immediately signed up for the initial 3-month coaching program with Stephen. (I even used my December rent money to do it.) I had a deep knowing that with the guidance of Stephen and the principles of Shen Life that I would easily make the money back and more. And boy has that proved to be true!

We started out with some basic awareness tools and set some visions. Then, my life began to take on a totally new direction. In reality it was the direction I wanted my life to go, but I was too stuck to move. After just a couple weeks, things just started happening. All the work we had done began to take shape: inexplicable chance encounters, job opportunities, the right girlfriend, greater spiritual awareness, and most importantly a sense of purpose and a renewed passion for life. We finished our 3 months of coaching last week.

As I looked back over the visions, every one of them has manifested perfectly! I am staying on board for another 3-month series to continue to build my own inner strength and to keep riding this momentum as long as I can...hopefully for at least another 50 or 60 years.

Thank you Stephen, Erica and Shen Life. Love you guys!"

~Zack from California

Open Your Roots

2011-12-10T15:41:00.001-07:00

Look at your feet. You’ll probably find five toes on the left foot and five toes on the right. Wiggle those digits and spread them wide. It might feel liberating or it might feel a bit straining (especially if you haven’t stretched your toes in a while). Now, appreciate the design of your body; there is an intention for how we are made. Our toes, each significant, separate to allow us to grip the ground, spring our bodies into motion, and help us stand still and straight.

However, whether for fashion, fitness, hygiene or comfort, we put our feet into shoes forcing our toes to squeeze in and act as one unit, like a hoof. The foot contains 26 bones, 33 joints, 107 ligaments and 19 muscles. One fourth (1/4) of all the bones in the human body are down in your feet. When these bones are out of alignment, so is the rest of the body. According to foot.com three out of four Americans experience serious foot problems in their lifetime – like plantar fasciitis, bunions and hammer toes.

One of the best ways to improve your foot health is simple: spread your toes. Manual separation, with or without the help of a product, like toe socks, helps to increase circulation in the feet, to properly align the bones, and to strengthen foot muscles.

This video shares another reason why it's important to spread your roots.

It is amazing how important our feet are relative to our general well being!

When you are scratching your head for a thoughtful stocking stuffer, remember your feet.

ToeSox is committed to creating functional footwear products that enhance the health of the feet and overall body wellness.

Try ToeSox today and use coupon code ‘ShenLife’ to receive 20% off your order. http://www.toesox.com.

30 Days to Greater Wealth

2011-10-08T11:07:00.000-06:00

Nine years ago in Orlando, Florida, I enrolled in a Shen Life Course taught by Stephen and Erica Rogers. Shen Life is a spiritual approach to healing and personal growth and it’s completely life-changing! All areas of my life improved especially my health, my relationships, and my sense of direction and purpose. I knew right away that the awareness and vitality I'd gained from doing "the work" outlined in the course was so profound that I wanted to devote my time and energy to it. So I did.

For the next five years or so, I apprenticed with Stephen and Erica at their studio in Los Angeles. What kept me engaged through those years was their powerful approach to living and healing. Most people know that true growth and change are easy to talk about, but not as easy to make real and permanent in our lives. I witnessed in others and myself what some people would describe as miracles.

I continue to practice the healing approach I learned from Stephen in my own business. In Los Angeles, I owned and operated a holistic wellness center built upon the Shen Life principles. Today, I continue to share the wisdom I learned from Stephen in my practice here in Connecticut where I currently reside.

What I love about the Shen Life approach is that it covers everything and it works holistically. As Stephen says, "the human organism, that is the body and its parts—the mental, emotional and sensational—is a reality generating organism. Once these three aspects are brought into balance, through the development of awareness and lifestyle changes, then we can just as easily choose a reality of healing instead of disease or a reality of wealth instead of poverty."

After three years of working in my business, I took time to visit Stephen and Erica in Montana. Admittedly, I had backslid a bit in my personal practice. During the visit I was inspired once again to continue the practice earnestly. I signed up to start a private coaching program with Stephen to get back on track. Signing up for such a committed program given my history with Stephen was easy. I know he is results-oriented, plus I'd achieved amazing goals with him before. But as comfortable as I am working with him, I still had butterflies in my stomach. My guts knew that a lot of growth and change were fast approaching.

Instead of stretching the program over the typical three-month period, we agreed to fast-track it in one month. Tired of the stagnation in my life, especially the financial debt, this intense approach made sense to me. We set up a plan to engage over the phone or web daily.

After some soul searching, I set a number of goals. The primary goal we set was to get back on track with my spiritual practice, because without that foundation the other goals would not be attained with integrity or grace. My secondary goal was to be more financially stable so I could invest in a home and pay off my debts. Stephen explained that, "Financial debt is one of the primary vacuums that robs life force. Life force is key for developing awareness: the more freely life force flows, the greater the awareness, the greater the awareness, the easier it is to choose a new reality." I could relate. The constant anxiety of managing debt was exhausting my life force; I allowed it to go on too long.

We figured that in order for me to be out of debt and ready to invest in a home, I would need to gross over $9500.00 a month for one year. At first, I balked at the idea. I thought, "Really? How many massage therapists or yoga instructors make that much money? Besides, I am in school two full days a week on top of my full schedule teaching 6 yoga classes and 12 massages a week." I shared the obstacles I perceived with Stephen. At the time, my income hovered around $4000.00 a month, which is pretty solid for someone in my field. To imagine more than doubling my present income in one month seemed a bit grandiose, to say the least.

Thankfully Stephen did his job and coached me through the details of making this goal happen. He reminded me of what I had seen with my own eyes over the years at his LA Studio where people reached seemingly impossible goals, whether it was healing disease, mending broken relationships or resolving financial issues. That pep talk strengthened my faith. After all, I was one of those folks who'd experienced this stuff. We set a stipulation too: the increase in my income would require a minimal increase of my workload.

Soon after engaging in the "Core Practice" of the Shen Life Model, I was able to see opportunities in front of me that I had not perceived before. And even though the Lifestyle Practice was very familiar to me, Stephen pointed out a few areas that could help to strengthen my overall energy, vitality and well-being. That was very important so that I could keep up my new productivity pace.

Over the month's time, I experienced numerous bio-energetic shifts; many more moments of feeling centered and present; and more memorable days where I felt like the whole day was an effortless flow. It was a remarkable experience to see myself build momentum as my awareness grew. Many new and exciting opportunities developed as a result of me having a greater awareness of my situation.

Although there were a few bumps along the way, with the help of Stephen's coaching, I earned over $10,000 in 30 days. But, Stephen, being the stickler he is, clarified that when we set the intention, it stated that I’d, “receive over $9500.00 gross income in hand within 30 days." Even though I'd earned it during the 30-day period, I wasn't able to collect one of my checks. Two days later, I collected $1900.00, which would have bumped my total over my goal. When I added it all up, I collected $10,100.00 for the month. Surprisingly, much of this income came from unexpected sources and with little extra effort on my part.

By the end of the program, I felt very accomplished, and even more inspired to continue the work. I can't deny that as much experience I have and as many influential people I am blessed to have in my life, it really, really helps to have an enlightened coach that can effectively communicate the principles of holistic creation and work with me to set a plan to achieve my goals. I stayed the course and followed through with action.

Going through the program, I realized an even greater understanding of the process of healing and creative manifestation. I was also better able to identify my pitfalls and sabotage triggers. Fortunately with Stephen's guidance and encouragement, I created a plan to reach my dreams, established healthy lifestyle habits to maintain the path, and allowed myself to be stretched. I am so grateful and excited! Granted the Shen Life approach is not for the faint-hearted, especially if you plan to enroll in one of Stephen's Coaching Programs, but to achieve profound growth sometimes it takes profound help.

To our health and growth,
Alli in CT

For a complimentary initial Shen Life Coaching consultation, email: Stephen (at) shen-life.com

Healing Miracle or Common Sense

2011-08-26T17:56:00.003-06:00

Matthew, NC—March 4, 2011—Local senior resident facing renewed quality of life thanks to the unorthodox help of healing practitioner Stephen D. Rogers and his system, Shen Life.

One week ago Sherry Mulcrone was unable to care for herself and had to resort to crawling on all fours to get around her room at Willow Grove Independent Senior Living Center. She sought help from over sixteen medical specialists over the last nine years, including the top staff at Duke University’s Medical Center, but she found zero relief from the pain associated with her condition. After numerous diagnoses, some of which were Parkinson’s and Peripheral Neuropathy, and treatment with numerous painkillers and other medications, Sherry’s health continued to decline. She commented, “On a scale of one to ten, ten being insufferable, the pain’s intensity regularly hovered at a level eight and spiked to ten frequently throughout the day.” Certain that her condition was degenerating; she had lost almost all hope of living pain free or being able to walk again.

Finally at the behest of her loving son, Tom, she agreed to take an unconventional approach. Healing educator and long time friend Stephen D. Rogers received Tom’s call. Trained in Classical Chinese Medicine, mind-body and hygienic therapies, Mr. Rogers flew to Charlotte from Montana to work privately with Sherry for eight days implementing his program, Shen Life—a model that fuses personal development and spiritual exploration with a biological focus for healing and transformation.

“My approach is not to treat or diagnose,” Stephen explained. “Rather, my goal is to help remove the obstacles that inhibit the body’s innate healing ability. Whether mental, emotional, physical or spiritual blockages, once they are alleviated, the body will heal…provided the person has not passed his or her healing threshold.”

To the surprise of the other residents and staff at Willow Grove, Sherry’s condition improved remarkably in the short time she worked with Stephen. Within two days, with the aid of a walker, Sherry was walking around her apartment and to the dining hall. By the fifth day she was walking around the entire grounds with the use of a cane only. And by the seventh day, Sherry was walking around her apartment, to the dining hall twice daily, and around the facility grounds all her own, with neither walker nor cane. She further increased her activity by exercising thirty minutes a day on a stationary machine.

When asked what Stephen did, he responded, “I educated her about how her body and its parts (the physiology, the emotions and the mind) are tools for self-expression, and that her awareness is the commander of them all. From a biological perspective, I explained how humans are reality-generating organisms, and that we can just as easily generate the reality of optimum health as we can an existence of disease. With that awareness, she realized that she had much more control over her situation than she previously thought. A little bit of awareness goes a long way.” A key to healing, according to Mr. Rogers, lies in the direction of a person’s attention inward on body’s energy system to activate it completely. This often overlooked system is recognized in alternative medicine and many ancient healing practices.

Dietary and exercise adjustments helped her stabilize her moods so she could employ her attention to develop a deeper awareness of the mind-body connection. Now, Sherry understands how to utilize this deepened awareness to better care for herself and her body’s vital energy while going about her daily routine. The most welcomed result is that Sherry’s pain levels drastically decreased; she manages her pain with the techniques Stephen taught her and a minimal amount of medication. The transformation is miraculous to Sherry. She continues to maintain her renewed well being with confidence and looks forward to enjoying one of her favorite hobbies—traveling the world.

Excited that Sherry is functional again, Mr. Stephen Rogers returned to his Montana home and continues to promote the Shen Life System online at http://www.shen-life.com and works privately with select clients. Contact 1-866-497-7436.
---------------------------------------
An Update
The Work Continues...

Matthew, NC—June 14, 2011—After regaining her basic mobility in March with the help of an unconventional healer, a few months later Sherry Mulcrone decided she wanted to reach greater goals: to be able to walk on her own without the use of a cane or walker a mile each day, to be able to stand balanced on her own for two minutes at a time, and to be able manage her pain levels better. To do so, she again called on Mr. Stephen Rogers—a teacher, healer and consultant who utilizes a unique system, called Shen Life. This time Stephen brought with him his secret weapon, his lovely wife and business partner, a trained physiotherapist and wellness counselor, Erica Eddleman Rogers.

At the core of their approach are the conservation, cultivation, and optimization of vital force (also called life force, qi or prana). A good analogy to understand vital force in the body is similar to water in a garden hose. Like water flowing through a hose, life force flows through specific circuits in the body. When the circuits are blocked, it’s similar to having a kink in the water hose leaving one side rigid and the other side limp. Applied to the body, the rigid or stagnant portion of the circuit develops diseases of excess while the limp side develops diseases of deficiency. Stephen explains that there’s a reciprocal relationship of regeneration and degeneration going on all the time in the body. This balance becomes lopsided by energetic blockages or kinks in the flow. Then the rate of degeneration exceeds regeneration, and we get into trouble. The key to maintaining this balance is the well-orchestrated flow of life force.

“My job as a healing practitioner is really more of an observer,” shares Mr. Rogers. “I observe where vital power (also called life force or qi) is deficient and/or excessive within the body-mind organism. Additionally, I note what lifestyle habits are connected to the power disruption. Then, I point it out and share information about eliminating the problem. The real work begins when the client takes the action steps to alleviate the blockage and everything that reinforces it, to re-establish the flow of his or her vital force."

Sherry’s 6-day session began in the usual manner; Stephen observed her daily habits to find out where she was losing vital power or wherever her attention was chronically fixated since the chronic fixation of attention leads to excessive energy loss. Once identified, then the work began. Immediately, he took away Sherry’s cane and walker to force her to be more aware of each step and more importantly to help stabilize her attention within the body. As Sherry moved around, Stephen moved by her side constantly reminding her to keep her attention or mind focused on the work at hand…attending to her gait, step, posture, and breath. "As a spectator it appears to be a simple process, however it’s quite the contrary, since keeping attention on anything longer than a few seconds is difficult for most people,” points out Stephen. “In Sherry’s case, it’s even more difficult when taking into consideration her pain levels. Yet, bringing attention back into the body and its functions is the key to success in mind-body medicine. Attention held long enough removes the energetic blockage allowing the optimum flow of vital force, eventually, even the stuff the blockage is attached to, people, places and things releases…usually, people first! This is the reason why letting go can be difficult.”

Needless to say, Sherry met her goals. On the sixth day, she walked over a mile without any assistance from a cane or walker. She stood in a stationary position for over 2 minutes at four different instances. And though she still experiences pain, Sherry is acutely aware of its source and triggers. Is her healing process complete? Not hardly, but she is on her way. Like the rest of us, she is learning that healing is a life-long process that must be consciously engaged. And the development of awareness is the cornerstone of true healing. As Stephen says, a little bit of awareness goes a long way. But, a lot of awareness takes us all the way. By bringing our awareness closer to home, in the body, we again are able to restore optimum function, and regain our health, and well-being."

For those interested in reaching any seemingly impossible goals, be it centered around healing, financial prosperity, relationship health, personal development or longevity, Stephen and Erica have worked with over 2,000 people helping them to reach their goals and better embody their full potential; they are available to help you too! Contact 1-866-497-7436 ext. 103 or send an email to: service @ shen-life.com for details.

XXX

Shen Life
2504 W. Main Street, Ste i-105
Bozeman, MT 59718
1-866-497-7436 ext. 103
www.shen-life.com

ShenTrition Reviewed by Dr. Therese Walsh Van Keuren, Ph.D., L.Ac.

2011-08-15T16:55:00.002-06:00

ShenTrition is the perfect product for anyone who has trouble taking pills or sticking to a wellness program that involves more than one product.

This unique combination of superfoods provides the support to multiple systems of the body: overall energy and stamina that is a result of all systems working together harmoniously, digestive function, and immune strength and adaptation, which is primarily an adrenal function.

The taste of the product is completely palatable and the benefits are noticeable in the first few days. The high fiber content improves bowel movements and supports the Large Intestine motility and eases the passage of waste material. The stevia will not spike blood sugar levels nor increase triglycerides levels, and so can be used by people with diabetes and high cholesterol.

Using this product daily helps one to ingest more greens/chlorophyll and more phytonutrients that battle oxidation, as it is rich in anti-oxidants. This is well -known as an anti-aging strategy.

Carefully constructed with the five major internal organs in mind, Lung, Heart, Liver, Kidney, and Pancreas, this product fulfills the needs of the body by sourcing whole superfoods to acheive reinforcement and health.

~Therese Walsh-Van Keuren, Ph.D., L.Ac.
321 Los Gatos-Saratoga Rd.
Los Gatos, CA 95030
408.583.7964
Truechi.com

An Apple A Day...

2011-05-13T14:41:00.001-06:00

By: Stephen Rogers

Most of us have heard the saying, "an apple a day will keep the doctor away." Well, this is more valid than you may realize, and I'll explain why shortly. But, first let's take a look at some of the more well-known health improving aspects of apples, and then I'll tell you the biggest reason why apples may keep the doctor away and save your life.

The pectin in apples have been shown to lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol, lower blood sugar levels, and promote healthy weight loss.*
Some researchers found that a certain flavanoid, phloridzin, is great for increasing bone density, and apples contain plenty of it!*
Since apples are rich in fiber, they help digestion and stomach disorders, constipation and other bowel disorders, heart disease, and diabetes.*
Another great health benefit of pectin is that it provides galacturonic acid, which has been shown to lower the body's need for insulin. This is great reason for those suffering from diabetes to eat apples.*
Another great benefit of eating apples is their catabolic nature, which encourages weight loss. Catabolic foods are believed to utilize more calories during the metabolic process than they contain; this is the opposite of anabolic foods that help build bodies bigger. Apples happen to be one of the best catabolic foods!*
Apples are great anti-aging foods, since they are loaded with antioxidants such as polyphenols, which help to combat free radicals. Also, apples give us a shot of vitamin C.*
Apples are great for dental care. While eating apples the teeth and gums are given a quick cleaning by crushing through the fiber in the apples. Plus, apples have anti-viral properties, which help to clean viruses and bacteria on the teeth and gums.*
Apples are great to include in any cleansing and detoxing program. They provide a healthy dose of fiber to cleanse the bowel. And, they are rich in iron, which is good for strengthening hemoglobin in the blood; iron helps to clean the blood.*
Apples are a great source of life force or qi. They help to restore vitality in those who are suffering from weakness, malaise, and fatigue.*
An apple’s seeds and peel tend to be bitter, and bitter is something most Americans are missing from our diets. According to Chinese Medical Philosophy, in order to have a balance diet, one must make sure that all the five flavors are present per meal in adequate forms. Bitter flavor is great for balancing the heart, small intestine, liver, gallbladder, and cleansing the blood along with helping to balance the bio-energetics between the organs systems.*

Although, all the above are great attributes of apples, perhaps the best attribute of apples is found in the amazing healing properties their seeds. Contained within apple seeds is a vitamin known as B-17, also called laetrile or amygdalin. B-17 therapy is one of the most popular natural, alternative cancer treatments; however to receive these treatments, someone would have to venture outside of the US.

Based on the work of several doctors, most notably Ernst T. Krebs, Sr., M.D. and his son Ernst, amygdalin (B-17) as a anti-cancer treatment works in the following way. When amygdalin comes into contact with certain enzymes, it breaks down into two molecules of glucose, benzaldehyde, and hydrogen cyanide (which is poisonous). Due to the molecule of free hydrogen cyanide, those who oppose B-17 as an effective cancer treatment often claim that it is toxic. And, yes, they would be correct if it weren't for an enzyme called, beta-glucosidae. Only cancer cells produce the beta-glucosidae enzyme. And, amygdalin only releases the cyanide when it comes into contact with beta-glucosidae from cancer cells. This means the cancer cells are the only cells that accept the cyanide. If a body is free of cancer cells, then the beta-glucosidae enzyme is not present, thus the cyanide will not be released from the B-17 present in apples.

Additionally, the body's healthy cells have another safety mechanism to work against the cyanide, an enzyme called rhodanese. Rhodanese neutralizes amygdalin by keeping it from releasing cyanide and instead converts it to glucose. But since cancer cells are devoid of this enzyme, the cyanide is released and leads to those cells’ demise. Therefore, it takes a considerable amount of amygdalin to be effective, since rhodanese is present in our healthy cells.

This awesome process is the explanation for why it is beneficial to eat lots of foods with naturally occurring amygdalin. It seems that several cultures having been doing this for quite some time, and now B-17 reveals one of their secrets to minimal cases of cancer. Some such culturals are the Eskimos, Hunzas, and Abkasians. Of course, there are other reasons these peoples are cancer-free, such as a low stress lifestyle, lower toxic load, and diets full of more organic foods. In western culture, where cancer rates are highest, we've have all but removed B-17 containing foods from our diet.

Here are some of the foods containing high concentrations of B-17: kernels and seeds of fruits like apple, plum, pear, peach, apricot, nectarine, cherry; nuts such as macadamia, cashew, and bitter almond; beans like chickpeas, lentils, lima, mung, preferably all of them sprouted; and some grains, seeds, and grasses like alfalfa, milkweed, wheatgrass, chia, flax, sesame, barley, whole grain brown rice, buckwheat, millet, and wheat berries. Of course, it’s important to not take the apple seeds (or other pits and seeds) out of the apples nor to eat a pound of them at once. Eating three apples each day, whole—seeds and all, should be enough B-17 for daily intake.

A great book discussing this topic is, "World Without Cancer," by G. Edward Griffin.

Here are some cautionary tips:

Apples are one of the most highly sprayed fruits…with pesticides, insecticides, etc. so make sure to eat organic ones!
The best apples are the ones you will eat! (I prefer Fujiis and Pink Ladies.)
One way to make apples more appetizing is to add a small serving of peanut butter; this is my favorite snack.
When you buy apples make sure they are firm. Do not buy apples that have wrinkles, because these apples have lost most of their health benefits and nutritional value.
Always eat them raw…never cooked.

The old adage, “an apple a day will keep the doctor away,” certainly has some efficacy.

For the sake of full disclosure, its important to note that cancer is a complex disease best dealt with from a holistic perspective; it is important to treat the whole person. I do not promote B-17 as a lone treatment for cancer or any other disease. If you are suffering from cancer or any other disease, you should seek the aid of a primary healthcare physician. And most importantly note that this information is solely for educational purposes. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease, nor is it intended to replace the advice of a qualified, licensed physician.

SOURCES

G. Edward Griffin. World Without Cancer: The Story of Vitamin B17, Revised Edition. 2010, American Media (CA).

Jay M. Patel: A Review of Potential Health Benefits of Flavonoids . Lethbridge Undergraduate Research Journal. 2008. Volume 3 Number 2.

http://www.lurj.org/article.php/vol3n2/flavonoids.xml

P. Knekt, R. Järvinen, R. Seppänen, M. Heliövaara, L. Teppo, E. Pukkala and A. Aromaa.“Dietary Flavonoids and the Risk of Lung Cancer and Other Malignant Neoplasms” American Journal of Epidemiology, 1996, 146, 3 Pp. 223-230.

http://aje.oxfordjournals.org/content/146/3/223.short

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC541214/

http://www.nyapplecountry.com/heartstudy.htm

http://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/fruit/health-benefits-of-apple.html

http://healthmad.com/nutrition/health-benefits-of-apple-4/

S. Bonnet¹, S. L. Archer¹^,², J. Allalunis-Turner³, A. Haromy¹, C. Beaulieu⁴, R. Thompson⁴, C. T. Lee⁵, G. D. Lopaschuk⁵^,⁶, L. Puttagunta⁷, S. Bonnet¹, G. Harry¹, K. Hashimoto¹, C. J. Porter⁸, M. A. Andrade⁸, B. Thebaud¹^,⁶ and E. D. Michelakis. “A Mitochondria-K⁺ Channel Axis Is Suppressed in Cancer and Its Normalization Promotes Apoptosis and Inhibits Cancer Growth.” Cancer Cell, Volume 11, Issue 1, 37-51, 1 January 2007

http://www.cell.com/cancer-cell/abstract/S1535-6108%2806%2900372-2

http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jf058010c?prevSearch=%2528apples%2Bhealth%2529%2BNOT%2B%255Batype%253A%2Bad%255D%2BNOT%2B%255Batype%253A%2Bacs-toc%255D&searchHistoryKey=

http://pubs.acs.org/action/doSearch?action=search&searchText=apples+health&qsSearchArea=searchText&type=within&publication=40026026

The Oh Sh*t! Bag

2011-04-07T16:01:00.001-06:00

Be Safe and Respect the Law!

We at this website from Shen Life, Shenology Inc, Shenergy Holdings, and its officers do not condone any kind of illegal activity. We do not support acts that threaten the government or its officers and representatives or peace & order. The intent of this website is to provide education and information that may be of use if ever such a crisis would arise.

All techniques, advice, ideas, & messages written and shared here are provided at your own risk and we will not at all be responsible for accidents, legal and moral losses or any consequence that come from anything found on this website made by the author, his partners or third parties.

We will not assume responsibility for anybody's failure to exercise caution or to practice safety procedures

Be it manmade or natural disasters, sh*t happens, and usually it does so without any warning. Earthquakes, tsunamis, floods, tornados, blizzards, nuclear meltdowns, hurricanes, power grid failures, pandemics, biological warfare, terrorist attacks, dirty bombs, and financial collapse are just some of the sh*t that happens. It all happens when we least expect it too.

Most people never concern themselves about these things. Even more unfortunate, most people do not have a survival plan of any kind for the day when these things happen. And why should they? This is the kind of drama that third-world countries face. (Ha.)

Tell that to the people in Japan who just experienced a deadly earthquake, a cataclysmic tsunami, and a nuclear disaster all in one month, and face more quakes and flooding today. Explain that cavalier attitude to the folks in New Orleans who had to ride out one of the worst hurricanes in recorded history only to be followed by some of the most severe flooding ever experienced in this country. Unlike Japan though, the situation grew dire in New Orleans when roving gangs and irrational individuals looted stores, robbed homes, and killed a few people for good measure.

Still think sh*t is unlikely to happen here in North America?

In this complex modern society, the chance for chaotic upheaval may be even greater than in third world countries. The simple reason is that the amount of supplies and food to maintain our continent’s lifestyle is large and sourced from all over the world. On average, food travels 1200 to 1500 miles before it reaches your plate. What would happen if there is a truck drivers’ strike or deliveries stop, because the price of fuel is too high? You guessed it; just about the whole country shuts down within three days. Not to mention, the populations of third-world countries know how to live a lifestyle that is appropriate for their climate without technology.

Before you accuse me of being a doom-and-gloom guy, let me explain my rationale. I consider myself to be an optimist, and as an optimist, I try to be prepared as much as possible. Of course, it’s impossible to prepare for everything, but we can certainly be ready for a number of things. That’s my approach. If any variety of scenarios arises, I am not going to be part of the crowd of people who are standing around freaked out wondering what to do. Like Mr. Squirrel, who worked diligently all fall packing away nuts for the winter, I too have a stash to get me through a tough season. I have a plan!

Another prepared example to note is the president. The secret service has numerous contingency plans in place for the president and his cabinet for just about every possible man-made and natural disaster. In fact, there are safe houses and underground bunkers mapped out in every city he visits, just in case. Why? The government knows good and well that sh*t happens, and it happens on a regular basis.

Considering everything, it is wise to have an oh sh*t bag ready to go so all you have to do is head to your secret storage place, grab your bag, and go.

Before I get into what goes in this survival bag, let’s talk about where to keep it. Storing your oh sh*t bag nearby is important. If you are going to work 5 days a week, then have it with you, and bring it home on the weekends; be mindful of the local temperature and climate though. Sounds overzealous huh? Not really. What if you are in a similar situation as some of the people in New Zealand a few months back who were at work when the earthquake hit and got stuck with no home to return to get their bag? Whoops. Do yourself a favor, stash it where you can grab it and go within 15 minutes—wherever you may be.

Let’s say this is a dress rehearsal. You have your bag. Now, where do you go?

Well, the ties that link people back to a family farm are practically non-existent now. So if there are hard times, people do not have a safe rural place to hang out. Hopefully, whatever the catastrophe, it will be short and things will normalize within a few weeks. This means you won't have to go too far; perhaps a motel in a nearby town will be sufficient. They best plan is to have at least 5 people/places within a 100-mile radius that you can trust with your life; head to one of these places to weather the emergency.

If those places are compromised, then you'll need to head to your long-term retreat. (This is a whole other scenario. I will address this next month in an upcoming article.)

What happens if you don't have a long-term retreat and all of your five people/places are compromised? Then it's time to go camping—just like our ancestors did not too long ago. Don't worry though, because within your oh sh*t bag everything is available for this contingency plan.

Let’s take a look at a list of the basics you'll need to have in your oh sh*t bag to survive for three weeks wherever you end up.

1. The Bag

First, you'll need to get a bag, and I am not referring to a shopping bag from your favorite department store. You'll need to get a real backpacker's bag, one that will hold 30 – 40 pounds easily. It needs to be compact, lightweight, and waterproof. If you can't find a waterproof one, then make sure your rain poncho extends over your backpack too. You can find these at any of your outdoor gear stores. REI.com has a huge selection. The lightest ones I know of are at online at Golite.com.

2. A Buddy

I believe the most important things you'll need is a buddy. Why? Things are much easier if you have support! Someone of like-mind can be of great help when confronted by robbers and they certainly can be a great emotional support if things get really tough. And the best thing about having a buddy is if you run out of food, then you can eat him/her…just kidding!

3. A 20 - 30 Day Food Supply.

Many survivalists suggest that it is best to get high-calorie foods. You can do this if you choose, but I'd rather have nutrient-dense foods that are calorie-low. My reasons are simple; I don't want to weaken my immune system by eating calorie-dense crap, especially if the reason I am leaving town is due to some freak pandemic. They best way I know to do eat this way is to buy certain micronutrient plant powders. My favorite is Shentrition.com. It is a superb, nutrient-dense, food source, plus it has over one dozen kickass adaptogenic herbs. Another great powder to carry is hempseed protein. In both cases, these are great because they can fit in ziplock baggies and they easily store in your backpack. When you are hungry, just add water and go!

Here is a list of the food I have in my bag:

About 5 cannisters (3lbs) of ShenTrition in ziplock baggies
3 lbs of hempseed protein powder in ziplock baggies
10 lbs of nuts and dried fruit
4 packages of Nori (dried seaweed sheets) to eat once a day to advert nuclear fallout problems
1 package of organic red miso (dried fermented soy paste) to eat one teaspoon a day to again advert nuclear fallout issues.

All in all, this is about 17 lbs of food. Yes, you'll lose some weight following this kind of diet, but who couldn't stand to lose a few pounds? Remember, this is to keep you alive and vital for three weeks.

4. A knife…actually two knives are better.

A Swiss Army Knife (swissarmy.com) is a great multi-use tool. Don't buy a knock-off; if you want to know why, just watch the movie "127 Hours." The best complement to a Swiss Army Knife is a Ka-bar knife (ka-bar.com). It can be used as protection (from wild animals and such). It can serve as a saw. It’s great for hunting or cleaning fish.

5. Mobile water purifier & tablets.

Get a hand pump filter, which can be picked up at REI or another outdoor store. Also pick up some water purifying tablets. These are a bit harsh to the taste, but they get the job done if something happens to your water filter. They can almost make ditch water drinkable. Both of these items can be found at your local camping store.

6. Clothing.

Get two changes of really durable outdoor clothing, plus some winter weather layers, even if you live in Florida. When on the trail, I wash one set of clothes and tie the other to my backpack to dry, while I am wearing the other. I prefer the quick-dry Patagonia pants and tops. They seem to outlast everything else. The kicker is you do not want any cotton or denim items, because if they get wet you are going to be very cold for a long time. And don’t forget your underwear layers; get two sets of microfiber quick dry under layers and long johns.

6. Duct tape

Don't ask me for what purpose; duct tape can be used for almost anything. Trust me, you'll use it! It may be that your buddy has a good case of diarrhea of the mouth, in which case duct tape is very handy...(LOL).

7. A water bladder.

This is a modern version of the buffalo stomach. You can place this plastic sack in your back-pack and feed the water hose out, so you can keep moving. This is so convenient if you have a substantial distance to travel. You can get these at any outdoor or sporting goods store. Some people prefer a water canteen or Nalgeen bottle. Personally, I feel that a bladder is the easiest way to go and they can carry larger quantities of water than a bottle.

8. Boots.

You want some really good backpacking boots. They need to be all-weather. Wear them for a few days after you buy them to break them in and to be sure that they fit. This way you have time to return them and try another pair. You don't want shoes that cause your feet to hurt. You may have to walk 10 – 20 miles a day. I prefer REI simply because they have a trained staff that will fit your feet to the right boot, and if you aren't satisfied they have a 100% guarantee. When you select your shoes, get the steel-toed boots with strong heels; don't get casual hiking boots, because you could roll your ankles with the weight of your pack. Another reason for steel-toes boots is in case your buddy gets that "jaw-jacking” condition and may need a swift kick in the ass. These boots work well for that too! Another optional item to consider getting with your boots is a pair of gators. These are sleeves that cover the top of your boots and calves to keep pebbles or water from creeping into your shoes.

9. A coat.

Truly, you need a heavy, warm, water-proof coat with a hood. You never know when rough weather comes! Again, a visit to a local outdoor store will fix you up. My favorite is Patagonia…again. They understand the elements and how to make gear that will survive and outlast the others. Yes, Patagonia is expensive, so I suggest hitting any of their outlet stores. You can find a list online, patagonia.com

10. A wide brim hat.

This is great for sun protection (and mystique), and there are tons of styles all over the place.

11. A sleeping bag.

Your bag needs to be a sub-zero sleeping bag made out of microfiber or synthetic fibers, because if it gets wet it will still keep you warm and dries out easily. Even though the goose-down bags are great, once they get wet, you freeze your ars off. Once that happens, the goose bags will then smell like dirty socks. I know this from experience! Since bags can be heavy, I recommend shopping around. Try Golite.com or REI.com.

12. A rain poncho.

An awesome poncho is essential for any wet weather gear. Get the ones that extend over your backpack. These can be a lifesaver in case you don't have time to build a shelter.

13. A tent.

A light-weight, 2-man tent with a rain fly is a must. Why a 2-man tent? Well, you must have room for your buddy, of course. Again, Golite.com has the lightest ones.

14. First Aid Kit.

There are plenty of first aid kits that are pre-made on the market available at drug stores, camping supply centers, and medical supply stores.

15. A simple sewing kit.

Basically, you just need a needle and thread from any sewing store. This can be handy for fixing tears in clothing, or in case you have to go Rambo and give your buddy or yourself a few stitches.

16. Aspirin or other medications.

These can be handy if the swift kick in the ass doesn't shut your buddy up, and your head is pounding from his constant jaw jacking. It may be included in the first aid kit.

17. A burner with gas.

Ya gotta eat, so you’ll need a makeshift kitchen. The burner is for cooking fish or other wildlife. You can find these at any camping store.

18. Protection.

Many people will choose a gun, which is their choice. However, I strongly suggest you rethink this position. Why? Well, if you've never shot a gun, much less never shot a person, it’s a lot tougher than you think. If you come up against someone who has handled a gun in these situations, chances are they are going to take it from you and use it on you. Besides, shooting a gun will draw unnecessary attention to you. A knife or heavy flashlight works great as protection if you know how to use them. You may want to take a few defensive training courses. I suggest taking these from police officers or survival experts, not martial artists. The goal is to drop the invader like a hot rock, not dance around like Bruce Lee. Defensive survival techniques are just that—to defend yourself and survive, not to look cool. If you've never been in a fight, then rest assured from someone who has been in plenty, fights usually don't last very long and the winner, in most cases, is the one who lands the first few punches to the face or other vital areas. As the great Mike Tyson said, "everyone has a plan until they get hit(s) in the face." Basically, you just want to temporarily disable the person, which gives you enough time to get the hell out of there. (So, yes, you want to be physically able to run a few miles. Do a little cardio a week to keep your legs and lungs ready.)

19. A sierra cup

These multi-purpose cups are great for all sorts of uses like cooking, drinking a beverage, shaving, brushing your teeth, plus they are lightweight. You can find these at some camping stores; definitely at REI.com.

20. Toiletries.

About 2 rolls of toilet paper will get you through three weeks, unless you are like me, then you'll need one roll per day. J A toothbrush, toothpaste, sunscreen, dental floss and lip balm are also important. Other items you may want are: shampoo, conditioner, lotion, sore muscle salve, and bug spray (or a bug net to throw over your hat). Keep in mind that it’s wise to chose products that are biodegradable or chemical-free like divineresponse.com, so you don’t pollute the land as you go trekking. (If you need help reading the labels, Cosmeticsdatabase.com rates products’ chemical toxicity levels.)

21. Hand shovel.

A hand spade shovel works as a great trenching tool for digging a fire pit or burying your doodie. There are lightweight plastic ones, but they may prove to be useless if you have to dig into rocky ground. Go with a metal one.

22. A flashlight and head lamp.

I prefer the heavy tactical flashlights used by the police, which can be used as protection, too. However, if you already have a knife, then there are the friction-charged flashlights that do not require batteries. Just shake them and viola you have light! A really good headlamp is very handy. Get ones that are extra light-weight for extra ease and safer night travel. I love headlamps. They are easy to use in place of a flashlight a lot of times. Check at hardware stores or camping outlets.

23. Batteries.

Whatever gear that needs a battery, make sure you have replacement batteries (ie. your headlamp and flashlight). If they have been sitting a while, test them every so often.

24. A hand-crank emergency radio.

This item isn't a must, but I have one just in case. You never know when you might need to know what is going on around you, especially if you are cut off from the rest of the world. Plus, there may be public announcements from the government that you'll need to be aware of, especially, if there are announcements saying to go to the nearest FEMA camp. If this happens, then you'll know to go in the opposite direction. J

25. Compass and Topo map.

Lensatic compasses are more accurate than the run-of-the-mill orienting compasses. I strongly suggest you learn how to use this piece of equipment (ie. Brunton 9077 Lensatic Compass at REI.com) If you live near an REI, they offer courses on this subject. Make sure you have local maps and a continent map.

26. Rope.

Get nylon rope about 100 ft. This stuff is great for making a shelter, a make-shift poncho, or tying up your buddy before you get ready to eat him. J

27. Fire-starters.

Remember that before fire, life in the cave was rough. Fire is a must. There are several types of fire starters that I keep around. On my key chain I have a magnesium fire-starter, and in my pack I have water-proof matches, a fuel lighter, and pre-manufactured kindling. All of these items are at a camping store like rei.com.

28. Fishing Line and Lures.

Just in case the “emergency” lasts longer than your food supply lasts (or in case your buddy didn't have an oh sh*t bag), then fishing for food will help stretch your supply. It’s pretty easy; find a body of water and drop the line and lure in. These simple fishing setups can be found at any camping store.

29. Emergency blankets.

Wool or micro-fiber blankets are optional. They come in handy if someone is injured and needs to be kept warmed. Personally, I plan to unzip my sleeping bag and use that for warmth since its sub-zero. But just in case, there are the emergency reflective blankets found in most wilderness first aid kits.

30. A warm cap.

If your coat has a hood this will do. However, hoods can sometimes be problematic. So, I have a beanie just in case. Make sure it is either wool or microfiber. If these get wet they will still keep you warm.

31. Cash or silver.

Keep a small stash of $500.00 in small bills. You never know when the banks may shut down and cash may come in handy. You can likely find this is your buddy's bank account—lol. Since our government is inflicted with the “printing disease,” hyperinflation is a possibility, which could lead to collapse of the dollar. If this happens, then the economy most likely will collapse, and no one will accept paper bills. In this case, you’ll need another form of currency. The best option is always going to be food, but your food supply is limited, therefore, silver is the next best option for currency, not gold. Why not gold? Who is going to be able to give you an even trade or change for an ounce of gold, which is currently hovering around $1500.00 per ounce?

32. Emergency care skills.

Take a class that covers wilderness first aide, cpr, and the like. Most outdoor stores offer these courses. Knowing how to stabilize someone who is experiencing shock, how to apply a tourniquet, etc. are good to know in a fix. A small handbook is useful to put in your pack to act as a reminder if needed.

33. A pencil and pad of paper.

A small pad of paper and pencil can be handy if you need to let leave a message for someone. Yes, a pen will do the job, but pencils don’t run out of ink.

And there you have it, everything necessary for an equipped oh sh*t bag.

Again, let’s intend for the best in life, while being prepared just in case there are a few chaotic bumps in the road.

Your prepared friend,

Stephen

Too Much!

2011-02-14T08:57:00.000-07:00

Is there another activity that we participate in daily that has as much damaging satisfaction as eating the American way? Even when the choices are healthy, the relationship most Americans have with food is destructive. The problem is we just eat way too much!

Generally, Americans eat past the point of nourishment and gorge ourselves in the realm of satiety and sensory exploitation. This practice brings to mind another civilization that was renowned for decadent pleasure, the Roman Empire. Roman courses would flood the tables like a conveyor belt of edible widgets; likewise similar lavish spreads are now common place for Americans. Advancements in technology and transportation make it possible to eat our heart’s desire year-round just as a Roman aristocrat.

The fact is that the human stomach is approximately the size of a clenched fist (respectively). In order for optimal nutrient absorption to take place, the stomach needs space during digestion. If the stomach is completely full, then it is not able to break down the nutrients. Instead, it reacts to the food as if it is an infection to be rid of quickly. If there’s room for the organ to do its job, then digestion and assimilation occurs. That’s it. The issue is we eat more than the body can use.

Varied research is underway to address the growing size of Americans. Some doctors say that the body needs one thing and another group of researchers show a different issue. The process of sorting it out could last for decades. A more logical approach is simply to look for living case studies: people who reflect the desired results. There is a popular athlete that is a shining example of simply eating less.

Herschel Walker is a famous college and professional football player who competed in the Olympics, studied ballet and earned a black belt in Tae Kwon Do. Now approaching fifty-years-old, he is engaged in a successful career in mixed-martial arts fighting. To date, he’s won both of his fights by knockout, and some say that his incredible endurance makes it possible. To say he is a physical specimen is an understatement. Yes, he is an exception and most people cannot maintain his schedule. However, what is most interesting about Mr. Walker was recently revealed in a few interviews: he only eats one meal a day, dinner. On the menu are soup, salad and toast. He has stuck to this routine for decades. Contrary to what nutritional science professes, he maintains an intense workout regimen in addition to managing his large business and philanthropic endeavors on a very low calorie diet. In acknowledgment of his hard work, ESPN selected him to pose nude for The Magazine’s Body Issue. Herschel Walker is a great example of what humans are capable when we don’t bog down our bodies: he is productive, physical and eats much less than experts recommend.
(http://www.cnn.com/2010/HEALTH/10/11/herschel.fitness.martial.arts/?hpt=C2; http://www.examiner.com/mma-in-san-francisco/mma-fighter-herschel-walker-talks-about-his-diet-ballet-and-the-nfl-playoffs; http://thenewsoftoday.com/herschel-walker-diet/3571/)

Even though most people are not built like Mr. Walker, the average person could serve their health tremendously by simply eating less. But, this may raise a number of questions. “How much food is too much?” “Am I getting what I need as far as nutrients?” “Should I cut back all at once?”

Remember its best to approach any dietary changes in moderation. Drastic actions do not always produce healthy results. When approaching a smaller diet, also keep in mind that the body needs nutrients to function. A smaller diet should not be mistaken for a starvation plan. Foods that are nutrient-dense, but calorie-low are the key to eating less and giving the body what it needs. Bearing in mind that the stomach is the size of a fist and it needs room for digestion, only eat until the stomach is two-thirds full.

Oh, but wait. Did you hear that? A mental tantrum just took place in someone’s mind. That inner voice just whined in protest against the eating less suggestion.

And, there it is the culprit behind our society’s vast problems: the menace that demands more when clearly we’ve gone beyond the day’s means. It is the egocentric-me! Well, it is time that we all put the spoiled personality in its place. Reflect on that a moment. Isn’t it disturbing that we use food as a way to appease that selfish personality? Why do we eat one more handful of chips when our belts are about to bust? Why do we schedule lunch dates, then dinner dates followed by after-dinner munchies? Overeating creates a feeling of temporary fulfillment. It seems that the quickest escape from the human condition or hole in our hearts is a stuffed stomach.

Along those lines of thought, another tactic for eating less requires much more introspection and personal accountability. Do so by following a simple line of inquiry. When choosing a meal, answer this question, “Will the food in hand support the regeneration of my body’s cells, tissues and organs or will the food contribute to its degeneration?” Put even more simply, “Will the food in hand encourage the healing or dying of my glorious body?” The answers uncovered will help select foods that will help repair and regenerate the body, instead of wasting its precious bio-energy on metabolizing and eliminating excess food. When eating less, the amount of bio-energy, life-force or power that can be reclaimed is astonishing!

And there we have it the most important benefit of eating less, besides the weight loss effects, is the amount of life-force saved. After all, in order to create the many wonders of life, we need life-force to do it and lots of it. The greater amount of life-force accumulated indicates vibrant health whereas a lack thereof reflects poor health. So, choosing a food regimen that supports life and vitality makes sense and we don’t have to wait for researchers to prove it.

Perhaps the factor that separates each of us from achieving our wildest potential is the amount of food lying on our plates?

~Erica Eddleman Rogers

A Case for Immortality, Part 2 and Part 3

2011-01-27T21:37:00.002-07:00

In Part 1 of this series, we looked at some of the experts in the field of anti-aging and heard what they have to say about aging. Go here if you missed it. Now, in Part 2, we're going to take a closer look at the field of gerontology (the study of aging) their theories about aging and some methods for slowing it down. In Part 3, we'll investigate an entirely different approach to slowing and even reversing aging.

A Case for Immortality, Part 2

In the study of aging, gerontology, there are two main groups of thought. One group believes that aging is a natural process programmed in the body. Meanwhile, the other group believes aging is unnatural and it’s the result of cellular damage accumulated over time.

Those who believe that aging is a natural process and the body is programmed to age and die generally believe in one or a combination of the following theories. Of course, there are more theories, but these are the main ones:

• Hormonal Changes—The body’s many changes in the hormones levels are the key to its balance, and their eventual decline leads to aging and death.

• Immune System Decline—The immune system breaks down or deteriorates and that leaves people vulnerable to all kinds of pathogens and disease, which lead to death.

• Gene Determinant—The body’s cellular code holds certain aging genes that turn off and on at a specific time; essentially, aging and death are hard-wired into our DNA.

For those who believe aging is an unnatural process brought on by accumulated damage to the body's systems, the reasons are not limited to, but include:

• Inertia or lack of movement can lead to blood and lymphatic fluid stagnation. The stagnation allows waste to accumulate leading to toxemia, and the lack of movement inhibits nutrients and oxygen from reaching the cells and tissues.

• Chronic destructive movement takes a toll. The body's ability to continually repair the damage or degeneration hits a threshold or tipping point. At which point, general motion declines.

• Accumulated distress (mental, emotional, physical, and environmental) eventually destroys the reserve life-force or adaptive energy in the body. This depletion leads to disease, decay, and death. In essence, we lose our ability to adapt and survive.

• Free radical damage is the result of oxidative stress. Since oxidation is a part of metabolism, as the body degenerates it ability to manage the free radical damage declines.

• DNA damage is a dangerous reality with the impact technology has on the body. Cells malfunction because of genetic mutations, and the mutations take over the replication pattern.

• Toxemia is another theory that explains the body's ability to keep up with metabolic waste and other toxins declines as we age, and eventually leads to death.

• Death Urge relates to beliefs about death where an individual has an unconscious urge to die due in part to some genetic basis and environmental conditions.

Regardless of the belief system, both groups agree that there are certain ways to slow and even reverse the signs of aging. Some of them are:

• Foods that are loaded in anti-oxidants can offset the damage done by free radicals in the oxidative process when eaten frequently.

• Mindful exercise practiced daily can slow down the muscle and bone loss and help to regulate hormone balance.

• Positive thinking has been shown to increase life span by as much as a decade.

• Placing ones’ self in a healthy environment can increase life span. This includes clean air, a peaceful setting, supportive relationships and a health-minded community.

• Hormone replacement therapy can help re-establish balance. Since our vital hormone secretions decline as we age, another way to offset the symptoms of aging is hormone replacement therapy. (A good resource for learning about this is Integrative Endocrinology; The Rhythms of Life, by Dr. Don Beans.)

• Dietary supplementation is emerging as a very popular approach. Utilizing products that include longevity herbs (adaptogens), vitamins, minerals, and other micronutrients can have an impact. ( A new resource focused on this in part is No Age is the New Age, And action Plan to Ageless; A Longevity Guide for Men and Women 25 to 125, by Karen Norris and Eve Michaels.)

• Calorie Restricted Diets are very effective. Studies have shown that mice fed a calorie restricted diet (30 percent fewer calories per day) extended their lives up to 50 % longer than mice fed an ordinary diet.

While I believe it is much better to live a healthy lifestyle and make the above behaviors part of your overall routine, I do not believe that any of the above practices will extend your life beyond 120 years, particularly not in functional years. It makes complete sense, though, to live a healthy lifestyle, as promoted above, simply for better quality of life, if for nothing else.

Why do I believe the “healthy lifestyle” approach by itself will not solve the aging problem?

Let's look at a modern example.

Ever hear of a man by the name of Jack LaLanne? If you’re over 40 or concerned with fitness or aging, the chances are you know exactly who he was. Jack Lalane was best known as one of the earliest fitness and nutrition gurus. As a chiropractor and fitness trainer, he was a wellness pioneer and promoted physical exercise and eating healthy fresh juiced vegetables and fruits. His late night infomercials promoting his juicer and the miracles of juicing were memorable. In fact, to prove his point, he staged incredible endurance and strength events. Most notable, he swam great distances while pulling multiple boats with a rope in his mouth and his hands bound. On January 23, 2011, however, this great health advocate passed at 96-years young. Let’s take a moment and give him a round of applause please. He lived his message and was in great condition until he passed.

For the purposes of this longevity discourse, the hard question at hand is, “did his approach work in regards to slowing or reversing the aging process and did he look younger than the average 96 year-old person?”

Surely, he lived beyond the national average life span, but in my opinion, he did not look any younger. He looked fit, a fit ninety-something-year-old man. Although he was still very active in his nineties, his body just wore out and he fell to pneumonia.

Before over-reacting or chastising me for saying such things, I want to be clear that I am not here to discredit old Jack. I love Jack. He was one of the reasons I became a fitness trainer and wellness counselor, and that was a major stepping stone for me in my journey into Holistic Medicine and the Human Potential Field. I owe Jack a lot. The point I am making is that no matter how much exercise and eating healthy foods someone does, the body will still wear out…unless you are able to become an exception.

A Case for Immortality, Part 3

Whether you've read about them in the Bible or in some ancient Taoist Text, history is full of stories about the individuals who lived well beyond a hundred years, the exceptions. Some people believe these stories are true, while others believe they are simply allegories with little historical accuracy. Regardless of your belief, let’s agree that they are stories revealing incredible possibilities for humanity.

The account of Ponce de Leon and his search for the Fountain of Youth in Florida is one such story. Mr. de Leon heard through the 1511-grapevine that a remote body of healing waters could cure aging. Though the tales of his search for this Fountain of Youth weren’t added to his exploration until after his death, many accounted that Ponce de Leon wanted to drink from this fountain to cure his old age and restore eternal youth.

This is a perfect example of allegory, a story or parable trying to reveal a greater divine truth. Yes, there is a fountain of youth, but it’s not in a land to be conquered. Rather, it is inside you.

Modern science has revealed that around the age of 12 years, or at puberty, our pineal gland begins to calcify. Once it calcifies the vital hormones, especially the ones that keep us youthful, vital, and healthy, begin to decline and decline rapidly. This is about the time the body cannot manage the rate of decay. At this point, the body is dying faster than it can repair the damage. In conjunction, this is the time when the body begins to stink, or leak metabolic waste through the lymphatic system, tissues and skin. At this time, dark circles under the eyes and lines on the forehead appear, and even the hairline begins to recede. This is the onset of the death process.

In my opinion, this happens because at that blossoming age the sex organs become highly active. Instead of the vital sexual or core energy circulating throughout the body and flowing upward to stimulate the pineal gland, it now flows outward. The sign of this happening in both genders is obvious—in males via the ejaculatory secretions and in females via the monthly passing of an egg. Of course, these functions are a part of the natural process of procreation; however, most of the vital core force that supports these functions is wasted on pursuits of the senses. Before sounding like an abstinence commercial, let me clarify. A waste of the vital core force varies according to our five senses. The visual expenditure could be due to watching too much television, playing video games or extended computer work; auditory expenditure can be due to listening to any sounds for extended periods that are too loud (voices, music, or machinery); the taste expenditure is simply too much food, rich or otherwise; olfactory expenditure could be due to toxic fumes, strong hygiene products or chemical gases; and the physical sense expenditure can be attributed to lack of touch, over-exercise, even lack of space, and yes excessive sexual activity.

Almost every religious doctrine and school of philosophy guards against the loss of this vital core force. Some teachings even instruct how to sublimate and redirect its flow for spiritual transformation. The Taoists and Qi Gong Masters teach Sexual Qi Kung, while some Yogis teach Tantric methods for this purpose. In Qi Gong, one of the main goals is to return to the state before puberty. This certainly reveals their deep knowledge of the pineal gland and its decline after puberty.

Once this powerful core force is redirected upward, it flows through several acupuncture meridians and through the center of the spine via the cerebral spinal fluid. At its apex, it reaches the pineal gland where, after some time, the energy dissolves the calcification and releases powerful healing hormones and secretions—a liquid. This “liquid” has been called many things for thousands of years. Some references are, “the manna from above that fed the Israelites in the desert.” The ancient Siddhi Physicians of India called it, “muppa,” and said it was, “the ultimate elixir that bestows immortality upon those who consumed it regularly.” Mystics referred to it as, “liquid light.” The early Christian Saints called it, “the blood of Christ,” “the anointing oil,” and “rivers of living water.” Ancient Yogis called it, “amrita—the food of the gods.” Even the early Catholics knew it to be the “true holy water” that would purify the mind, open the heart and heal the body. This fluid has been known for thousands of years by Naturalists as well as Spiritualists and Inner Alchemists as the powerful healing and transformative agent in spiritual development.

In Rick Strassman's work, The Spirit Molecule, he points out that DMT, a psychoactive brain chemical, is released from the pineal gland during meditation and near death experiences and that it increases the flow of other vital and youth-giving brain chemicals. He called it “the Spirit Molecule” and further explained that "Endogenous Dimethyltryptamine (DMT), the naturally occurring chemical cousin of serotonin, is a widespread and essential brain neurotransmitter.” Rick Strassman proposed that the pineal gland is responsible for manufacturing DMT. The pineal gland has the highest levels of serotonin, as serotonin is the precursor to melatonin. Melatonin is the primary pineal hormone, but Strassman thinks that the gland also creates DMT. "Because it possesses the highest levels of the necessary enzymes and precursors, the pineal gland is the most reasonable place for DMT formation to occur," page 67. He says DMT may be released during dreams, near-death, death, birth, and during meditation and mystical experiences.

"DMT increases all pituitary hormones and beta-endorphins, Vasopressin, Prolactin, Growth Hormone, and Corticotrophrin (cortisol). It is proposed that DMT induces a surge of beta-endorphins that creates the sense of euphoria. Serotonin receptors are activated by DMT and Serotonin receptors regulate heart rate, blood pressure, body temperature, and pupil diameter. Apparently DMT is a small molecule not much larger than glucose and Strassman says that it is like brain food that is rapidly transported across the blood-brain barrier."

Of course it will take modern science many more years to reaffirm the work of Rick Strassman, and in turn validate what the ancient Siddhi Physicians of India knew, that the vital hormones released during powerful meditative experiences have the ability to return a tired old body to a youthful state. If you want to wait for some guy in a lab coat to synthesize these brain chemicals into a pill, then go ahead. But, if you want learn how to release them naturally, the same way the Biblical Teachers, Qi Gong Masters, and Yogis taught, then please read on.

An ancient theory that works, awakening the Kundalini.

Over fifteen years ago the redirection of this powerful sexual force or core energy happened in my life along with the beginnings of the release of the youth-giving fluid. At the time, I was engaged in a lot of meditation and contemplation, plus I was living an incredibly disciplined lifestyle. I ate choice foods in the correct balance at the same time every day. I practiced mindful walking, mindful stretching and deep diaphragmatic breathing (as in Hatha Yoga), plus I got plenty of sound sleep. When those conditions were in balance, it happened, the redirection of the core energy force. Later when apprenticing under a Japanese Shinto Priest and Acupuncturist, I discovered this was a spontaneous awakening of the Kundalini. Kundalini literally means coiled, but the term describes an unconscious, instinctive or libidinal force lies coiled at the base of the spine that rises up the spine like a serpent. The process of this energetic transformation led me into Chinese Medicine College and extensive studies into this bio-energetic phenomena.

In a nutshell, here are the basics of the Kundalini experience:

"During very deep meditation when awakened, the Kundalini Serpent (the sexual or core force) rises up the spine and associated acupuncture meridians. During this process the internal fires melt the conditioned tissues surrounding the heart leading to profound heart expansions and feelings of love-bliss. Additionally, the fires release the nervous system thus creating a lightness and flexibility in the body. As the Kundalini reaches it's apex, the crown of the head, the pineal gland and other brain centers are stimulated to release a powerful liquid tonic into the bloodstream, which leaves one with the feeling of euphoria, mind expansion, a youthful appearance, and unlimited power and vitality."
~SDR

I have tasted this powerful secretion, moreover its power has increased over the years. It increased from what could be likened to an IV drip into a constant flow or fountain, like a fountain of youth, overflowing from the center of my skull. The liquid flows downward into the heart center and moves throughout my body leaving a euphoric or peaceful, easy feeling. As for its youth-giving properties, I'll let you be the judge of that. As they say, "a picture is worth a thousand words." Here is a photo of yours truly. I am 40 years young in this photo.

Just awakening the Kundalini (redirecting the core force) is not enough. It must become stabilized from moment-to-moment. If not, then the "rejuvenating liquid" will not be released or at least not enough to turn back the clock. My program, Shen Life, The Foundational Practice, demonstrates exactly "how to" activate this process and "how to" stabilize the Kundalini so that the "fountain of youth" will flow constantly.

What makes me an expert?

Well, experience afforded me to opportunity to be in the right place at the right time. I was fortunate…fortunate to be locked up in prison. In there, my lifestyle became very disciplined. It was rigid enough to create the “right conditions” for this Awakening to begin, plus the duration, the length of my sentence, was long enough to fan the inner fires, so they kept on burning and stimulated the "fountain of youth."

Of course, I don’t suggest anyone needs to go to prison in order to activate this process. Nor do I suggest anyone should move off in the woods or an ashram. It’s not necessary. All you have to do is create the “right conditions” wherever you are, whether it is in a busy city or in a remote rural area—you can do it!

In the words of another great, albeit fictional, super-centenarian, “live long and prosper!”

A Case for Physical Immortality

2011-01-04T10:19:00.001-07:00

The average life expectancy in the United States is around 70 years for men and 73 years for women. If you are fortunate enough to be born with great genetics then 90 to 100 years may be a possibility for you. Is 70 to 80 years the best outlook for our longevity?

I think not!

My experience leads me to believe that we've barely scratched the surface of our life potential. Let's take a brief look at some of the expert leaders in the fields of gerontology (the study of aging) and longevity and see what they have to say.

Ray Kurzweil who considers himself a Futurist is a healthy and vibrant 62-year-old who believes that humanity is standing on the brink of physical immortality. He estimates that he only needs to hang on long enough (20 more years or so) before some new health technologies will address the problem of aging. He looks for technology to enhance gene therapy (inserting genes to replace mutated ones) and establish health-related nanotechnology (where minuscule robots move throughout the body ridding it of unwanted waste and toxins, plus repairing cellular damage). Amazingly, these are real solutions that may offer humanity the fountain of youth according to Kurzweil.

Before scoffing at this man’s ideas as science fiction, look at his background. Kurzweil gained recognition as an inventor in the software engineering field, then later as a research scientist in the health and wellness field, where he overcame Type 2 Diabetes and authored a series of best sellers. His accomplishments speak for themselves.

Wikipedia notes (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ray_Kurzweil):
"He was inducted in 2002 into the National Inventors Hall of Fame, established by the U.S. Patent Office. He received the $500,000 Lemelson-MIT Prize, the nation's largest award in invention and innovation. He also received the 1999 National Medal of Technology, the nation's highest honor in technology, from President Clinton in a White House ceremony. He has also received scores of other national and international awards, including the 1994 Dickson Prize (Carnegie Mellon University's top science prize), Engineer of the Year from Design News, Inventor of the Year from MIT, and the Grace Murray Hopper Award from the Association for Computing Machinery. He has received twelve honorary Doctorates and honors from three U.S. presidents.

He has received seven national and international film awards. Ray's books include The Age of Intelligent Machines, The Age of Spiritual Machines, and Fantastic Voyage: Live Long Enough to Live Forever. Four of Ray's books have been national best sellers and The Age of Spiritual Machines has been translated into 9 languages and was the #1 best selling book on Amazon in science."

Although you may not agree with his ideas, he points out that other technologies, such as space flight and mass agriculture, would have been inconceivable not too many years ago.

In an interview, Kurzweil shares (from http://www.realwaterhealth.com/2008/09/ray-kurzweil-and-anti-aging/), “We’re beginning to understand biology and health, disease and aging, as information processes,” he explains. “We’re learning very precisely the sequences of steps concerning genes, proteins, and enzymes—and the sharing of information from one biochemical step to the next—that underlie aging and disease.”

And then there is Aubry de Grey, the Chief Scientific Officer at SENS Foundation and formally at the Methuzela Foundation (http://www.sens.org/users/aubrey-de-grey). He is also the Editor-in-Chief of Rejuvenation Research, currently the world's only peer-reviewed journal focused on reversing aging. Some of his research focuses on such things as the over accumulation of metabolic waste and its pathogenic side effects. These side effects are one of the key factors in aging. Aubrey's focus is to come up with ways to repair this “damage” or stop it all together. SENS or Strategies for Engineered Negligible Senescence (SENS) is his plan for doing just that. His premise is that through applying the principles and actions of SENS, one has the potential to extend a healthy life indefinitely, providing one doesn't have a fatal accident. Like Kurzweil, Aubrey believes that nanotechnology and stem cell research hold great promise in the healing and longevity fields. In 2007, Aubrey released his book, Ending Aging.

If technology isn't enough to stay off aging and usher in an era of eternal life, then there is Professor Bruce Lipton's ground-breaking work, "The Biology of Belief", which is changing our understanding of the evolutionary process (http://www.brucelipton.com/biology-of-belief-overview).

Since DNA was discovered, we've thought that our DNA was fixed; meaning everything is gene determinant—genes determine who and what we are, what deficiencies and diseases we may have, and so on. In Mr. Lipton's book, he states that our potential is not pre-programmed by our genes, rather by our beliefs. He calls his work "New Biology," and he points out that we have the power to change our health and many other things by our beliefs.

In a presentation he gave, captured on YouTube (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iB81L9zGLjE), Dr. Lipton explains his work, "...Recent advances in cellular science are heralding an important evolutionary turning point. For almost fifty years we have held the illusion that our health and fate were preprogrammed in our genes, a concept referred to as genetic determinacy.”

If this is true, then think of the implications surrounding aging and disease. We can re-program our genes so that life could continue on and on with optimum health. How exciting!

In the field of gerontology there is the late great Roy Walford, the former head of Gerontology at UCLA. Through his research in CR (Calorie Restriction) with mice he claims that it is possible to live beyond 120 years with optimum health. He is best known for his book, Beyond the 120 Year Diet : How to Double Your Vital Years.

Wikipedia explains (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Calorie_restriction):
"Calorie restriction, or caloric restriction (CR), is a dietary regimen that restricts calorie intake, where the baseline for the restriction varies, usually being the previous, unrestricted, intake of the subjects. Calorie restriction without malnutrition [1] has been shown to improve age-related health and to slow the aging process in a wide range of animals and some fungi. CR is one of the few dietary interventions that has been documented to increase both the median and maximum lifespan in a variety of species, among them yeast, fish, rodents and dogs. There are currently ongoing studies to investigate whether CR works in nonhuman primates, and its effects on human health and metabolic parameters associated with CR in other species. The results so far are positive,[2][3] but the studies are not yet complete, due to the long lifespan of the species.

Dr. Walford is credited with significantly furthering research on the discovery that laboratory mice, when fed a diet that restricted their caloric intake by 50% yet maintained nutritional requirements, could almost double their expected life span."

Of course, I must mention Alexis Carrel whom was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1912 "in recognition of his work on vascular suture and the transplantation of blood vessels and organs." His views on cellular growth created much controversy in the twentieth century. He claimed that all cells are able to grow indefinitely. This was met with great resistance and is not longer believed to be true by the much of the scientific world.

Wikipedia shares (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alexis_Carrel):
"On January 17, 1912, Carrel started an experiment where he placed tissue cultured from an embryonic chicken heart in a stoppered Pyrex flask of his own design.[8] He maintained the living culture for over 20 years with regular supplies of nutrient. This was longer than a chicken's normal lifespan. The experiment, which was conducted at the Rockefeller Institute for Medical Research, attracted considerable popular and scientific attention.

Carrel's experiment was never replicated, and in the 1960s Leonard Hayflick and Paul Moorhead proposed that differentiated cells can only undergo a limited number of divisions before dying. This is known as the Hayflick limit, and is now a pillar of biology.[7]

It is not certain how Carrel obtained his anomalous results. Leonard Hayflick suggests that the daily feeding of nutrient was continually introducing new living cells to the alleged immortal culture.[9] J. A. Witkowski has argued that,[10] while "immortal" strains of visibly mutated cells have been obtained by other experimenters, a more likely explanation is deliberate introduction of new cells into the culture, possibly without Carrel's knowledge."

Without repeating the experiment, it is uncertain who is correct, but the information does raise some interesting questions.

…

Stay tuned for the next installment of "A Case For Physical Immortality."

The S. 510 Sandwich

2010-12-15T10:45:00.003-07:00

The fact that I am writing this message depresses me greatly. Stephen and I have written about a bill S.510 – the FDA Food Safety Modernization Act. I know many FB Friends took action when we called for help in communicating resentment for this bill and such wide sweeping Federal Actions.

Sadly, last week the Senate passed the bill – 73 votes to 25, 2 not voting.

The House would have then been charged with debating the bill. However, a few days after the Senate passed the bill, the bill’s entire language got stuffed into another bill the House was voting on, The Omnibus Appropriations Act aka the Consolidated Appropriations . There on page 1685 of 1924 is Division M – Food Safety. The short title referenced in section 6001, sub section (a) the “FDA Food Safety Modernization Act.”

Yes, it is the same language as in the original Senate Bill 510.

The bill looks to reclassify food retail establishments to include road side stands, farmers markets and the like, plus enforce stricter standards for all food retailers. Of course, we want to ensure that food retailers sell contaminant-free items to consumers. However, when the regulations that large corporate food processors must now be met by small local farmers the impact is catastrophic to that small farmer; in essence, they’d have to pay 50% of their revenue to the government.

This is a tactic that is very similar to the recent supplement manufacturer regulations that passed a few years ago and took full effect this past June 24. The largest pharmaceutical and supplement manufacturers had to comply in 2008. Next, the medium sized manufacturers had to comply in 2009. And finally, the smallest manufacturers had to comply this year. The amount of paperwork and cost of certified compliance put many smaller manufacturers out of business. In fact, a few of our favorite products fell into oblivion as a result of these stricter regulations.

Here in Montana, the local farmers are able to feed entire valleys. And, in Montana, I think there are many people who won’t abide or recognize an immoral law. However, I am concerned that the lifeline of most small communities in this country will be regulated out of business leaving an individual’s source of food to be only from a semi-truck transport from a big agri-farm.

If your food supply is in the control of a governmental agency and big business, would you feel “safer” about your “modernized” food supply?

We clearly are not legal experts that can dissect the bill’s shenanigans or Congress’ sneaky tactic, but I cannot urge you enough to reconsider the importance of our inherent rights to LIFE, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. If you value them, please start conversations with your friends and neighbors. When the social salutation arises and it does every day, “Susan, how are you today?” Let everyone know how depressed or upset you feel, because the Federal Government is looking to regulate your local food co-op or farmers market.

This is happening in this country.

What will you do?

Resources:
Email your senators: http://salsa.democracyinaction.org/o/568/p/dia/action/public/?action_KEY=5303

Dark Eye Circles?

2010-11-08T12:42:00.001-07:00

Ever look in the mirror and wonder, “Where did those eye circles come from, ugh?” What is really going on inside the body that makes those damn circles and droopy bags appear around the eyes? And, what about the indentions or recessed tissue surrounding the eye socket, what brings this about?

Generally, dark circles are a sign that not all is good in the house called, “ME.” Dark circles can be caused by several things, but are usually a sign of overwork and over-stressed, and/or just plain burned-out. In TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), dark circles almost always represent a Kidney Energy Deficiency. In Western terms, this means the energies and vital hormones in the Kidneys, namely the adrenal glands, are becoming or are already depleted. This explains why dark circles typically appear with feelings of exhaustion. When the adrenals are exhausted, we don't have enough gas in our tank to get the job done, because when we are overstressed, the adrenals release constant flow of cortisol, a stress hormone, into the bloodstream. This stress cycle depletes the adrenals and weakens the overall kidney energies and essences.

So, what does that have to do with the recessed indentions around my eyes?

Well, those eye patterns indicate severe depletion.

Fortunately, there is a natural solution!

In TCM, tonic herbs will help fix the problem. In the West, these herbs are called, adaptogenic herbs. Adaptogens are a unique classification of herbs that among their many benefits, they stimulate the adrenals. In fact, they stimulate the adrenal glands better than any other herb or superfood! Once the energies and essences are restored in the kidneys and adrenals, then the dark circles begin to disappear and the weakened collagen surrounding the eyes begins to repair and fill in.

So, the marketing hype behind those harsh creams will not fix the problem. Neither will going under the knife to fill those recessed, dark circles. The answer is to stop depleting the adrenals, and give yourself a wide array of adaptogenic herbs (with a significant milligram dosage). This should do the trick! Of course, my favorite adaptogenic supplement, ShenTrition, has the widest array of adaptogenic herbs and the highest milligram dosage I know.

Enjoy!

Hemp Can Help!

2010-10-07T12:06:00.002-06:00

There is a lot of negative press about using any form of cannabis in the United States, even for logical solutions. When considering the many benefits this plant offers, it is important to reconsider its populous image. Hopefully, with the power of this information, the face of hemp will change.

First, it is important to point out the family genus, cannabis, has different species and subspecies strains. The crucial distinction is determining the rope variety from the dope. Cannabis sativa sativa was cultivated for its long fibrous qualities where as cannabis sativa indica gained popularity for its THC content. For purposes of clarity, hemp is often used when referring to the fibrous plant whereas cannabis is more popular for the other plants and preferred over the derogatory term, marijuana.

In fashion, hemp is making a real splash. The long fibers from the stalk of the plant can be woven into durable and comfortable fabrics. Depending on the process, this utilitarian fabric can be made to feel like linen, jean or silk. In fact, you may already have been wearing hemp unknowingly. In the June 1995 Issue of The New York Times, designer Ralph Lauren revealed that he has been using hemp fiber in his clothing since 1984. In the same article, Calvin Klein admitted, “I believe that hemp is going to be the fiber of choice in home furnishings and fashion.”* This incredible statement is attributed to the functional strength of hemp over cotton. Hemp bundle fibers are up to fifteen feet long, whereas cotton fibers are merely three-quarters of an inch, which makes hemp 8 times the tensile strength and 4 times the durability of cotton.

What about paper? Well, looking at it historically, paper has come from trees for only 160 years. Before the mid 1800s, paper came from cloth rags and crops of papyrus and hemp. Going back to that method could in effect make huge strides in healing the earth; the crisis of deforestation, soil erosion and environmental changes is no longer a casual issue on the back burner for future generations. If the prohibition on hemp is lifted, the economic advantage in using hemp would force manufacturers to go green with hemp plus allow for nature’s other resources to rejuvenate.

Perhaps the most exciting area that hemp can help is in manufacturing and building. The possibilities are mind boggling, like a car made out of hemp (except for the steel frame), a house made of hemp, and super strong composite board. It’s amazing! There’s a patented non-toxic process that turns stalk into insulation, called Isochanvre. And then there’s the colossus of potential, bio-degradable plastics and bio-fuels can be made from hemp. Considering the implications on the world’s consumption of oil and plastics, this is an amazing application! One I hope to see soon even though the technology is largely novel.

So far, the uses of hemp have been based on the “rope” strain of the cannabis plant. The plentiful uses continue into food and medicine. Now let’s dive into the application of the cannabis “rope” and cannabis “dope” strains. The nutritive value of sterilized hemp seed powder and oil could rock the agricultural industry. Can you think of another bio-available, balanced, plant protein source with all the amino acids and essential fatty acids that’s energetically neutral and healthy and that is drought resistant and pest resistant? There is no other. It’s hemp. All vegetarians and vegans should have stock in hemp seed protein to balance out their diet. It’s no wonder why so many supplements, like ShenTrition, are using hemp seed protein powder in their formulations. There are even stories of famine survivors mixing hemp seed and rice for a meal. Talk about saving lives; hemp can help.*

The medicinal uses are overwhelming. The references of cannabis treatments go back to 2300 B.C.E when Emperor Shen Nung prescribed female cannabis for the treatment of constipation, gout, malaria, rheumatism and menstrual problems.* Female cannabis was even regarded by Nung as one of the superior elixirs of immortality.* In ancient Ayuruveda and Indian Medicine, there are many noted cannabis cures.* Depending on the preparation method and ailment, the narcotic effects can be neutralized. The therapeutic powers of cannabis reportedly help for cases of diarrhea, constipation, epilepsy, delirium, gastritis, anorexia, consumption, fistula, nausea, fever, diabetes, anemia, menstrual pain, tuberculosis, asthma, gout, malaria, rabies, hemorrhoids, and skin diseases.* Of course there is the use for pain, arthritis, glaucoma, depression, headaches and convulsions or spasms (as in cases of muscular dystrophy, multiple sclerosis and varieties of paralysis). With that kind of effect, it’s no wonder that the AMA and FDA are concerned. The economic impact of shifting patients from pain killers and anti-depressants to cannabis could cripple the pharmaceutical industry. Anyone interested in the applications of medicinal cannabis should consult their physician and state law. Some states, like Montana, allow for non-residents to get a “green card” when an appropriate medical condition exists.

Whether Federal lawmakers will listen to the individual states by repealing the prohibition remains unclear; however, it is ironic that the original drafts of the Constitution and Declaration of Independence were written on hemp paper, and that until the 1800s hemp paper was used for printing money. In fact, the US Government encouraged farmers to grow hemp to help win World War II. Clearly the plant has not changed in the last 80 years; only the public’s perception is that fickle. Shifting the public image of hemp requires individuals re-branding this amazing plant in their minds and communication. This may be one of the best approaches to helping hemp’s resurgence. Make a difference and educate others on the benefits of rope and dope.

Sources:

*The Great Book of Hemp, The Complete Guide to Environmental, Commercial and Medicinal Uses of the World’s Most Extraordinary Plant, by Rowan Robinson

What will happen next?

2010-10-01T14:35:00.001-06:00

In the spirit of Mr. Emanuel’s principle on crisis, Mr. Obama signed a version of Codex Alimentarius’ legislation during the Gulf Oil Spill distraction. The date was June 10, 2010 and it is executive order #13544. Though, the language is ambiguous, there are some particular portions that I think are particularly worrisome:
(f) contains specific plans to ensure that all Federal health-care programs are fully coordinated with science-based prevention recommendations by the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; and
(g) contains specific plans to ensure that all prevention programs outside the Department of Health and Human Services are based on the science- based guidelines developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention under subsection (d) of this section
(c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person.

The item that draws tremendous concerns is point (g). This provision gives full authority to a presidentially appointed panel to determine what is a viable or a "science-based" treatment modality. In other words, one man gets to pick a committee of favored men (not necessarily qualified professionals from the natural and alternative health fields) to determine what EVERYONE in the country is allowed to do with regards to their health care choices. This committee will certainly place the burden of proof and efficacy on double-blind studies (which in part is good science). However, any therapies outside of that standard will fall out of favor and be regulated as such. So, the thousands of years of anecdotal evidence about natural medicine will be tossed out the window.

Many of us in the alternative health and wellness field do not have the hundreds of thousands of dollars and in many cases, millions, to have double-blind studies performed in an FDA approved facility. And they know it. We rely on the information from "trial and improvement" evidence that has been gathered over hundreds and sometimes thousands of years to give us the validity needed to practice healing treatment modalities. If a therapy has worked successfully without any casualties or side effects for centuries, why not go with it?

Here is the language in its entirety:

Executive Order 13544 of June 10, 2010 Establishing the National Prevention, Health Promotion, and Public Health Council By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including section 4001 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Public Law 111–148), it is hereby ordered as follows: Section 1. Establishment. There is established within the Department of Health and Human Services, the National Prevention, Health Promotion, and Public Health Council (Council). Sec. 2. Membership. (a) The Surgeon General shall serve as the Chair of the Council, which shall be composed of: (1) the Secretary of Agriculture; (2) the Secretary of Labor; (3) the Secretary of Health and Human Services; (4) the Secretary of Transportation; (5) the Secretary of Education; (6) the Secretary of Homeland Security; (7) the Administrator of the Environmental Protection Agency; (8) the Chair of the Federal Trade Commission; (9) the Director of National Drug Control Policy; (10) the Assistant to the President and Director of the Domestic Policy Council; (11) the Assistant Secretary of the Interior for Indian Affairs; (12) the Chairman of the Corporation for National and Community Service; and (13) the head of any other executive department or agency that the Chair may, from time to time, determine is appropriate. (b) The Council shall meet at the call of the Chair. Sec. 3. Purposes and Duties. The Council shall: (a) provide coordination and leadership at the Federal level, and among all executive departments and agencies, with respect to prevention, wellness, and health promotion practices, the public health system, and integrative health care in the United States; (b) develop, after obtaining input from relevant stakeholders, a national prevention, health promotion, public health, and integrative health-care strat- egy that incorporates the most effective and achievable means of improving the health status of Americans and reducing the incidence of preventable illness and disability in the United States, as further described in section 5 of this order; (c) provide recommendations to the President and the Congress concerning the most pressing health issues confronting the United States and changes in Federal policy to achieve national wellness, health promotion, and public health goals, including the reduction of tobacco use, sedentary behavior, and poor nutrition; VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:18 Jun 15, 2010 Jkt 220001 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4705 Sfmt 4790 E:\FR\FM\16JNE0.SGM 16JNE0 mstockstill on DSKH9S0YB1PROD with PRESDOCE033984 Federal Register/Vol. 75, No. 115/Wednesday, June 16, 2010/Presidential Documents (d) consider and propose evidence-based models, policies, and innovative approaches for the promotion of transformative models of prevention, integra- tive health, and public health on individual and community levels across the United States; (e) establish processes for continual public input, including input from State, regional, and local leadership communities and other relevant stake- holders, including Indian tribes and tribal organizations; (f) submit the reports required by section 6 of this order; and (g) carry out such other activities as are determined appropriate by the President. Sec. 4. Advisory Group. (a) There is established within the Department of Health and Human Services an Advisory Group on Prevention, Health Promotion, and Integrative and Public Health (Advisory Group), which shall report to the Chair of the Council. (b) The Advisory Group shall be composed of not more than 25 members or representatives from outside the Federal Government appointed by the President and shall include a diverse group of licensed health professionals, including integrative health practitioners who are representative of or have expertise in: (1) worksite health promotion; (2) community services, including community health centers; (3) preventive medicine; (4) health coaching; (5) public health education; (6) geriatrics; and (7) rehabilitation medicine. (c) The Advisory Group shall develop policy and program recommenda- tions and advise the Council on lifestyle-based chronic disease prevention and management, integrative health care practices, and health promotion. Sec. 5. National Prevention and Health Promotion Strategy. Not later than March 23, 2011, the Chair, in consultation with the Council, shall develop and make public a national prevention, health promotion, and public health strategy (national strategy), and shall review and revise it periodically. The national strategy shall: (a) set specific goals and objectives for improving the health of the United States through federally supported prevention, health promotion, and public health programs, consistent with ongoing goal setting efforts conducted by specific agencies; (b) establish specific and measurable actions and timelines to carry out the strategy, and determine accountability for meeting those timelines, within and across Federal departments and agencies; and (c) make recommendations to improve Federal efforts relating to preven- tion, health promotion, public health, and integrative health-care practices to ensure that Federal efforts are consistent with available standards and evidence. Sec. 6. Reports. Not later than July 1, 2010, and annually thereafter until January 1, 2015, the Council shall submit to the President and the relevant committees of the Congress, a report that: (a) describes the activities and efforts on prevention, health promotion, and public health and activities to develop the national strategy conducted by the Council during the period for which the report is prepared; (b) describes the national progress in meeting specific prevention, health promotion, and public health goals defined in the national strategy and further describes corrective actions recommended by the Council and actions taken by relevant agencies and organizations to meet these goals; VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:18 Jun 15, 2010 Jkt 220001 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4705 Sfmt 4790 E:\FR\FM\16JNE0.SGM 16JNE0 mstockstill on DSKH9S0YB1PROD with PRESDOCE0 Federal Register/Vol. 75, No. 115/Wednesday, June 16, 2010/Presidential Documents 33985 (c) contains a list of national priorities on health promotion and disease prevention to address lifestyle behavior modification (including smoking cessation, proper nutrition, appropriate exercise, mental health, behavioral health, substance-use disorder, and domestic violence screenings) and the prevention measures for the five leading disease killers in the United States; (d) contains specific science-based initiatives to achieve the measurable goals of the Healthy People 2020 program of the Department of Health and Human Services regarding nutrition, exercise, and smoking cessation, and targeting the five leading disease killers in the United States; (e) contains specific plans for consolidating Federal health programs and centers that exist to promote healthy behavior and reduce disease risk (includ- ing eliminating programs and offices determined to be ineffective in meeting the priority goals of the Healthy People 2020 program of the Department of Health and Human Services); (f) contains specific plans to ensure that all Federal health-care programs are fully coordinated with science-based prevention recommendations by the Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; and (g) contains specific plans to ensure that all prevention programs outside the Department of Health and Human Services are based on the science- based guidelines developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention under subsection (d) of this section. Sec. 7. Administration. (a) The Department of Health and Human Services shall provide funding and administrative support for the Council and the Advisory Group to the extent permitted by law and within existing appropriations. (b) All executive departments and agencies shall provide information and assistance to the Council as the Chair may request for purposes of carrying out the Council’s functions, to the extent permitted by law. (c) Members of the Advisory Group shall serve without compensation, but shall be allowed travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsist- ence, as authorized by law for persons serving intermittently in Government service (5 U.S.C. 5701–5707), consistent with the availability of funds. Sec. 8. General Provisions. (a) Insofar as the Federal Advisory Committee Act, as amended (5 U.S.C App.) may apply to the Advisory Group, any functions of the President under that Act, except that of reporting to the Congress, shall be performed by the Secretary of Health and Human Services in accordance with the guidelines that have been issued by the Administrator of General Services. (b) Nothing in this order shall be construed to impair or otherwise affect: (1) authority granted by law to an executive department, agency, or the head thereof; or (2) functions of the Director of the Office of Management and Budget relating to budgetary, administrative, or legislative proposals. VerDate Mar<15>2010 16:18 Jun 15, 2010 Jkt 220001 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4705 Sfmt 4790 E:\FR\FM\16JNE0.SGM 16JNE0 mstockstill on DSKH9S0YB1PROD with PRESDOCE0 33986 Federal Register/Vol. 75, No. 115/Wednesday, June 16, 2010/Presidential Documents (c) This order is not intended to, and does not, create any right or benefit, substantive or procedural, enforceable at law or in equity by any party against the United States, its departments, agencies, or entities, its officers, employees, or agents, or any other person."

As I pointed out, the wording of this order is ambiguous thus leaving it wide open for interpretation and dependent on the eye of the beholder.

Now, let's assume that our government, Codex Alimentarius and the FDA are benevolent with the best interests of the consumer in mind. In that case, everything is fine. Right? I wish that were the case. The facts point otherwise. These are the same folks that allowed thymerisol (the mercury based stabilizer) in vaccines, genetically modified foodstuffs (and soon animals), aspartame and more into the marketplace under the pretense that it is safe for human consumption. With that track record, do they really have our best interest in mind? You be the judge.

We already know their intent as stated; the goal is to "harmonize" the US laws with those of the UN. If any question arises about what does that mean, then Norway and Germany are the present example. The rest of Europe is on its way, which means an almost total negation of their health freedoms. Translation, our freedom of choice is on the line.

Personally, I think it's all about greed. Big Pharma wants to control the 60 billion dollars-a-year-in-business globally that we generate in the Natural Medicine Industry. Since most natural remedies can't be patented, they simply over-regulate them and place them out of the consumers’ reach (unless prescribed by an MD). Alternatively when possible, they design a synthetic copy to patent and capitalize.

It's sad, but true. This swift regulatory action is happening right under the American public's nose. In fact, they have come to rely on our self-absorbed culture. Their attitude is “who gives a $h!t?”

Clearly, the citizens of Canada gave a large pile, because they revolted and stopped this type of regulation from becoming law in their country. And though, I don’t agree with many of the tenets of socialism, I am grateful that Canada is an example for the US in this area.

So, “who gives a $h!t” in the USA anymore?

Well, that remains to be seen.

Get MOVING... and prepare

2010-09-13T20:24:00.000-06:00

By: Stephen Rogers

The most overlooked step in the creative process is taking action. Not just any action, but the right action steps necessary to make real, lasting change.

Many people have fallen under the spell, "If I just ask, pray, hope, wish, envision, or whatever, Universe, Source, Spirit or the Universal Law of Attraction will bring to me, give me, attract to me whatever I want."

Though being clear about what we want is crucial to achieving what we want, it is but one step in the creative process. Once we are clear about what it is we want, and have enough emotional fire or passion to sustain this vision, we must walk through the doors and windows or opportunities that our vision opens for us. And, this is the toughest part.

Why?

Because taking the right action steps means walking through fear, pain, rejection and all of the other obstacles that manifest themselves when we embark in a new direction.

Plus, many times the new path isn't clear, which can lead to indecision or a feeling of being stuck. Most of us have heard the saying, "When one door closes another opens." Well, this is true. But, I also heard a preacher once say, "its hell in the hallway." Meaning it feels like a living hell waiting for the new door open after we've closed the old one.

Why must change be so tumultuous?

Well this is the case when we haven't prepared or taken the right action steps that would clearly open a new door. For this reason, instead of moving forward towards our dreams, we get caught up in the dilemma, "Should I stay or should I go?"

This debate inevitably prolongs the experience from one door to the next, and we almost always end up going back to the same old door for comfort (or at best making a lateral movement by going through a side door). The only thing that changes in the side door is the names and faces of the people and places, but the situations stay the same.

To ensure successful growth and avoid the time spent in the hallway, it is so important to not just move, but to prepare.

How?

In the words of an old mentor, "Do the next right thing!" The next right thing is whatever is in front of us left unfinished. It's usually something we don't want to do, because its new or unknown, and therefore, it's likely painful at first.

So, if you find yourself stuck, in a holding pattern, or "in the hallway," do the next right thing, the unfinished thing. Once this is done or almost finished, the new door, not a side door will begin to reveal itself. This is the preparation that creates and opens the door. And, it seems that the faster you can finish the next right thing, the shorter your duration in the hallway will last.

Onward!

Thoughts to share

2010-09-07T20:15:00.002-06:00

Recently a few more customers tried ShenTrition and reported back their experience. (Their experience is pretty typical.) Well, we love to hear that people feel the difference ShenTrition can make when taken regularly. Even if its just a half a serving regularly, ShenTrition will impact the way you feel. Here's what they said:

"I love, love ShenTrition...I tell all my family and friends about it. Now that I have been taking it consistently for over a month I can feel its healing and nutritional power. I feel more energetic and clear headed with a more positive attitude :) This is just what I needed."

~Jessie from California

"One of the first things I do in the a.m is take my ShenTrition. I love the taste and truly feel so much better ( I have been taking for approx 2 months). It is hard to describe the feeling I get from it...it is not like an energy boost but I feel more energetic. My mind is clearer and I have a feeling of...lets see....I guess you could say CONTENTMENT and it is great. Enough for now...thanks so much for a great product and a wonderful feeling!"

~Susan from Montana

Have you tried ShenTrition yet?

Do you need to go shopping too?

2010-08-11T13:13:00.002-06:00

Upon reviewing our recent poll about stress, I found the results interesting. Behind mental and emotional stressors, environmental stressors are a huge concern that people feel encumber their well being.

After living in Southern California for 7 years, I understand!

The seemingly mundane tasks that everyone perform daily require much greater attention than the average person allots. For instance, getting ready for a day of errands involves a shower and primping. If the water comes from the city system, then that relaxing hot shower is in fact full of disinfectant chemicals that react with organic material in toxic ways. The hot shower is delivering harmful chemicals, like fluoride and chlorine, for the body to absorb via the skin and breath. Then, there’s the soap, shampoo and conditioning products used. Sadly, even the “natural” products are still full of unpronounceable, toxic ingredients. Following that cleansing shower, often comes the body lotion, deodorant, styling aides and makeup. All of which can become very troublesome when zero attention is applied to the list of ingredients. Go figure that a trip to the grocery store could be more harmful than expected before stepping out the door.

If you wonder how impactful these things are, I encourage you to watch this video about The Story of Cosmetics put out by the Story of Stuff Project: http://storyofstuff.org/cosmetics/ . I can say first hand that the impact of such toxic chemicals has a debilitating impact on a person’s health. I’ve watched my mom, a career cosmetologist and makeup artist, suffer health-wise for decades.

But if you are also like me, you may think, “that’s not happening to me, because I do a good job keeping my home free of disease-causing agents.”

I am writing to say, think again.

I recently tried a new hair care system, because it was paraben free, sulfate free and organic. It said it was cruelty free, and, yes, the packaging was pretty. I was sucked in.

After a month trial, I thought my new shiny mop was looking better and feeling healthier! Sadly, I was wrong. After entering the list of ingredients into a database, I discovered that on a scale of 0—10 (0 - harmless essentially edible versus 10 - toxic-related disease guaranteed) my new fabulous shampoo was a 6!

The horror!

Then, I got even more concerned that if I was duped once then I was probably wrong about other items in my home. (Concerned is a nice way to say I became obsessed!) After checking my toiletries, let’s just say I went shopping. (I rediscovered a great hair care line too, check it out: http://www.divineresponse.com.)

Why would anyone want to knowingly increase their chances for cancer or some other form of organ failure?

Convenience is one answer. And yes, it’s not convenient to avoid the major stores to shop for choice items. But now, there’s the internet. We can get anything from anywhere with a click.

So here’s my challenge, look up your products in the database (if they aren’t listed you can search by pasting the ingredients into a form). See if you are safe or if you are a doctor’s visit waiting to happen. Yes, it takes some time, but it is well worth the confidence and security in your health.

http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/

Let me know what you find, too!

To less stress...and NOT being duped,

Erica

Dear Senator...Bill S510???

2010-08-05T09:48:00.002-06:00

Dear Senator,

I am writing to express my concern with your sponsorship of Senate Bill 510.

This bill not only represents a blatant and insidious attempt to place more power into the hands of centralized government, taking away individual liberties, but it allows for the manipulation of our food supply. No other country in the world, not China and not Cuba, would be so brazen and uninformed as to allow governmental
intrusions into individual rights by allowing authorities to take away one's freedom to grow, sell, and buy food, and making these things crimes punishable by imprisonment.

Please ponder the following questions: why are we becoming less of a free nation and moving towards one of unchecked governmental rules, restrictions and regulations? What is it about the current legislative body that is propelling us in that direction? Most importantly, who would willingly choose to live in a country where it is a crime to simply grow (natural, unadulterated) food and share it with friends and neighbors?

This is especially problematic, in light of the problems facing the health care industry and associated costs, most of which will fall onto the backs of taxpayers. We can do a great deal of good in respect of our collective health, and reduce costs, by (i) educating the public on the benefits of live (unprocessed) food, and (ii) ensuring access to such foods. That should be where the legislative process works its magic to do good things. This bill takes us in the entirely wrong direction.

Please do the right thing and remove your sponsorship from Bill S510.

Please help those of us who are well-informed about nutrition, and stand up for individual rights and liberties by defeating it.

Thank you.

Sincerely,
Concerned Citizen Q

FIND OUT WHERE TO SEND THIS LETTER. YOUR SENATOR'S CONTACT INFO IS HERE!

The Power of Attention...continued

2010-08-04T18:26:00.018-06:00

In my last article, I spoke of the importance of "attention" in building the Kundalini Fire (fundamental life force) for personal and spiritual development.

Remember why it is crucial?

Because energy follows attention, and wherever your attention is at any moment, your energy will be there, also. Therefore, it is vitally important to understand and practice "present-centered attention" (or PCA).

What does "present-centered attention" mean? Is it a type of prayer, a meditation, mindfulness, or some other transformational technique?

The proper application of attention or as I call it, PCA (present-centered attention) is none of the above. In fact, it has nothing to do with the use of the mind or the instruments of the mind.

You may wonder now, “So, if PCA has nothing to do with the mind, then how do you do it?”

Well, that is just it you don't do it. It does you. You allow it to happen by giving up over and over! You could say it's a form of surrendering. You see, to be in the present moment, you can't be there or at least the "you" who you've come to identify yourself as can't be there.

Get it?

The "you" who you've come to believe is you is a seeker -- a seeker of experiences. The pre-sent moment is what exits prior to the seeker and its seeking. It’s pre-sent or before. So, this seeker must go. The pre-sent moment is what exists when the seeker gives up, surrenders or collapses.

I like to refer to the seeker as the Bull$hit Artist, B$A for short, because it's insidious, constantly fooling us, like a con-artist!

The challenge is dismantling the B$A. The difficulty lies in the holographic nature of it all. The B$A is not separate from what it seeks. In fact, it is what it seeks. And since the B$A is built upon its past or past experiences, what it seeks in the imaginary future is really just projected memories. Therefore, any new experience in the imaginary future simply reinforces its existence and thus creates a perpetual feedback loop keeping it stuck in the past! It's similar to kicking a dog and getting bitten. Then turning around and kicking the dog for biting you, only to get bitten again. Each time, the kicks and the bites get harder and reinforce the cycle or madness. This is bull$hittin.

I dive into this deeper in our upcoming book, Shen Life. In it, I point out the importance of realizing the problem of seeking and the deeper implications of seeking before beginning the practice of "present-centered attention." The danger is an unchecked practice breeds a new and more insidious form of seeking– spiritual seeking.

Typically, meditation, prayer and other self-help techniques have an intention to get somewhere, or achieve something—to seek something in the imaginary future, like enlightenment, spirit, wealth, health, etc. In fact, the more intent the attempt to fix the B$A, make it better, or get something in the great out-there, the stronger it becomes. In PCA, nothing is sought, nothing is avoided nor resisted, not even pain, anguish, anger, loss, failure, or fear. All is welcome, good, bad, or whatever. Nothing is held onto, not even bliss, ecstasy nor delight. Attention is allowed to jump, hop, move, and do its thing. After all, it's the chronic fixation on experiences, internal and external, good and bad, healthy and unhealthy, that is the real problem. So, the key is to allow the chronic fixation to dislodge and run its course. All states are recognized as temporal, nothing to be loved or feared, just allowed to pass. Until, even attention itself relaxes. Here (a non-local "here"), Shen reveals itself as you.

Here's an exercise you can try.

Sit and watch how attention jumps from thoughts, to emotions, to sensations, to external phenomena, and so on. Just watch. Then, as it begins to slow down, watch "who" is doing the watching. And so on and so on and so on.

This can be exhausting!

Finally, after much watching, an "irritable discontent" ought to arise. Now you are getting somewhere. Simply, fall, sink, relax, let go, surrender, melt, or whatever into the irritable discontent, over and over and over and over until Shen reveals itself as You.

Shen can be likened to the Supreme Unknown, the Absolute, Undifferentiated Awareness, the Great Beyond, Ultimate Reality, or Absolute Freedom. It is here, Shen, which is everywhere and nowhere at the same time, where what is referred to as healing, transformation, and conscious evolution takes place.

Just to be clear, conscious evolution or healing doesn't happen in linear time as we think of it either. It’s more like a falling away of conditioned time that reveals what has always been there unchanged by time, the pre-sent moment, Shen.

Think of it like this… you are in a dark room, or at least you think it is dark. The truth is it is dark, because you have a bag on your head. It takes you a while to figure it out, since that bag has been on your head for years and you've become used to it. You grown so accustom to it that you think it is part of your being, who you are; hence the Bull$hit Artist. When you finally get it off, you realized that there was always light in the room, only the bag kept you in the dark. Now, during your struggle to figure it out, time passed. This is what is commonly referred to as the healing process, the removal of the bag, letting go of your personal story, your memories—bull$hittin’. However, in the big scheme of things, neither the bag (the B$A) nor your process (bull$hittin) did anything to change the absolute fact that the room was full of Light. The B$A and its B$ just obstructed your awareness of what was already present or pre-sent.

Once you understand seeking is the problem and it’s the B$A’s modus operandi, that is moving and jumping around like a cat on a hot tin roof seeking one experience after another, like a junkie looking for the next fix, then you'll be ready to let it go; thereby, letting go of the B$A. Of course, this usually has to be realized over and over. Not until "frustrated incorporated" becomes your general experience will the "sense of urgency" be great enough to finish the job.

Remember, PCA is just a tool, and Shen Life is just a map, not the destination or territory. So, don’t fixate on these items, just discard them once the collapsing is done.

There you have it...now have fun!

~Stephen

Let's Talk About SEX, Baby...

2010-07-07T16:53:00.000-06:00

There is so much confusion and misinformation regarding sex within the human potential and spiritual growth movement. Is it bad? Is it good? Is it the key to development and spiritual growth? The questions keep going.

So, what is the real truth about sex and it's relation to human development and spiritual growth other than the obvious – pleasure and procreation?

First, let’s define what I am referring to when using the term sex. I prefer– copulate. To copulate, means to engage in sexual intercourse, derived from the Latin word, copulare, which means, to join together. So, there it is. The true meaning of sexual relations is to join together.

What is being joined together? Is it just man and wife, the male and female gender or any two adult human beings?

Suppose I should put out a disclaimer here: I am not making any value judgments regarding sexuality. This article is purely to provide another perspective on copulating besides the common one.

Allow me to explain.

As I have mentioned before, while incarcerated almost two decades ago, I experienced a Kundalini Awakening. (I’ll get into that further below.) In East Indian Spirituality, a Kundalini Awakening refers to an activation of the dormant energy that lies coiled at the base of the spine. When awakened, the energy travels upward in a serpentine fashion along the spinal column through several pathways until finally reaching the top of the crown. This process liberates an individual's awareness to allow him/her to experience a greater connection to Self, others and the rest of the world. Yes, many other cool changes and exciting healings happen, too.

Typically though, an Awakening doesn't transpire in one quick explosion. Rather a series of ongoing bio-energetic transformations strung together that can last for many years is the common occurrence. It depends on each person’s lifestyle choices.

Yes, I said choices.

The Kundalini process is either expedited or impeded by lifestyle behaviors. The primary lifestyle habit that will either speed up the process or slow it down relates to sexual behavior. The energy referred to as the coiled serpent is none other than the sexual energy or Kundalini. As we, humans, move into adulthood, more and more of this vital energy is spent in the game of life, particularly in sexual relations (either personally or with a partner). As a result, the Kundalini Energy Reservoir is very deficient in most people. Weak reserves will make any Kundalini Experience almost impossible, never mind a full-blown Kundalini Awakening.

This correlation reflects the reasoning behind why some monks, priests, and other religious zealots guard against sexual relations all together. Sadly though, most of these folks don't possess the true understanding of the relationship between the sexual energy and their spiritual practice. Many times the true knowledge is replaced with fallacies like, "sex is bad” or “unholy behavior except in marriage.” This outlook on sex or copulating creates a host of health problems and relational issues. (But, that is another topic for another time.)

In the right context, sex and the sex energy can be a huge asset to our potential, both in health and growth. Mindful copulating will encourage and build the vital force that leads to a Kundalini Experience, and even possibly a full-blown Kundalini Awakening. As you may know, there are a great many sexual practices that foster the growth of the Kundalini Energy. Some of them are Sexual Qi Kung, Tantric Practices, and Spiritual Coupling. Careful though, one must guard against sexual addiction or abdicating personal responsibility onto the partner for spiritual development. Each of these practices help (and I've personally gained from them), however, I found a spiritual aspirant will develop faster once he/she can let these practices go and learn "true coupling" within.

The true coupling I am referring to is the joining of the male and female energies within ourselves.

How do you do this?

Well, it's rather simple, but it is not easy!

Let’s go back to my experience. When I first arrived in prison, I was overwhelmed by where my life ended up and who I'd become – a drug and alcohol addicted, a violent-tempered criminal, a first-class mess. From rock bottom, I reconciled to find out why I'd made such poor choices, and to discover how to never to make them again.

Unknowingly, I began a contemplative practice.

Up to that point, my life experience was focused outward. Then, I took a 180-degree turn inward. There is the key. My "attention" was staying home so to speak. I minimized the loss of any vital power of the Kundalini Force (sexual energy), and that reservoir began to build, strengthen and compound.

Along with the contemplation practice, my lifestyle was more balanced. I went to bed at the same time and got up at the same time. I ate three balanced meals at the same time. I exercised each day by walking, stretching, and light strength training, plus I breathed much deeper while doing so. I no longer watched television nor engaged in fruitless conversation. And most importantly, I did not participate in any sexual activity.

Well, unknown to me, the combination of that radical lifestyle change and abstinence built up a brew of powerful energy. After about 9 months of this practice, a huge explosion happened within me...at least, that’s how it felt. A powerful surge of energy shot up from my pelvic floor all the way up to my skull and beyond. Following, a complementary force began from somewhere above my head and moved downward along the same path. My general experience was of pure exhilaration and ecstasy.

Two other experiences occurred that are worth noting. A great sense of connection to everything or whole oneness washed me, like a coupling or joining together of all my parts. Plus, time seemed to slow down to near slow-motion. Of course, all of these cool experiences didn't last very long. After the big bang, I was left with a surging force that, for much of the time, was torturous physically, emotionally, and mentally. From time to time, I would have the more enjoyable experiences, but for many years afterward, there was mainly the excruciating surging force. Until one day, I noticed my general experience had shifted into an expansive feeling of delight accompanied with a sense of wholeness or unity – true spiritual coupling.

In one word, the key to all of this is attention.

Energy follows attention, and if attention is focused on material life from moment-to-moment, energy follows it. The more I relaxed attention inwardly, the stronger the Kundalini grew. Therefore, it is imperative to gradually bring attention back home into the body, so that the Kundalini can build and eventually lead to total liberation.

Hopefully, you can see how important the sexual energy is in reaching your full potential – both spiritually and humanly. Without it, we won't get very far.

In my next article I'll outline the basic practice of attention, which is taken from the section, The Work, in my upcoming book, Shen Life, Reach For It, The Next Step In Human Potential.

Until then, keep it in your pants! ;-)

Let us know what you think...

2010-04-20T11:39:00.000-06:00

So tell us what do you think? Click the link to fill in the survey and get entered in the drawing for a free bottle of ShenTrition. (Applies to ShenTrition users only!)

CLICK HERE TO FILL OUT THE SURVEY

We're going to randomly pick an email address on June 1st. So, fill it out now so you don't forget!

And here's another ShenTrition story:

"I finally decided to try ShenTrition. The ShenTrition, once you get past the looks of it, rewards with a wonderful fruity taste in purified water. I even drink the water I use to rinse out the glass! I noticed on my first glass of ShenTrition, that I felt something good come over me! I couldn't put my finger on it--but I felt something good. I've been taking it every day, and can say there is truth to your claims, because I can feel the results after every dose. I like it!"

~Mike T Sr.

Just Breathe

2010-03-19T08:19:00.000-06:00

The brilliance of the human organism astounds me each day. Whether we, humans, are studied under a microscope or from afar, we are all certainly gorgeous.

I find the interconnected relationship of our many dimensions most interesting. For instance, the relationship between the mind affecting the body and vice versa ; or how emotions can warp the appearance of everything; and how the body can determine what we are capable of in certain situations is all fascinating. I consider the study of that inner-dimensional connectedness within the human experience a lifelong experiment. My inner lab assistant observes everything, notates reactions and outcomes, and accumulates any data that supports the hypothesis of how to live life more whole.

There are various experiments scientists perform in the laboratory. When transitioning to the lab of life, there are many tools to apply that will enhance our inner connectedness. In fact, there is one surefire tool that you already use daily in life that, if applied correctly, can help dramatically.

Any guesses?

It’s a simple one, breathing.

The process of breathing is so simple it is often neglected. Knowing how the breathing process is supposed to work, I can tell you that most people do not breathe correctly. Oftentimes, we only pay attention to our breathe when we’re performing tasks such as exercise, meditation and singing. Equal consideration needs to be applied to breathing throughout the day. When we drive the car, wash dishes, or take out the trash, there is a correct method to breathe.

Called deep abdominal breathing or the natural breath, the process starts from the diaphragm. Air gets pulled into the body by the suction created from muscles in the torso that expand the thorax and abdomen. Likewise, as the diaphragm relaxes, air is exhaled from the body. This exchange ideally travels through the nose. Contrary to average shallow breathing, the chest is not the focal point. Rather, the lower core is at the core of the breathing process.

When breathing, I use a few check points to monitor my breath efficiency. First, I take notice of my nose. To encourage breathing from the nose, I rest my tongue gently on the soft palette of the roof of the mouth. This will connect the flow of life force (qi) in the body too. Inhaling the air, I make sure to allow the belly to move and feel the air travel to my tailbone. The abdomen must expand along with the back and lower ribs to take a full breathe. But, the chest moves opposite—it descends on the inhale. When exhaling the chest and spine rises, and the belly and ribs deflate.

There you have it.

Inhale through the nose. Let the abdomen and lower ribs expand. Then exhale, chest rises and the abdomen deflates. Let the air flow in a smooth, penetrating rhythm. Flow is crucial. When the breath flows, life-force flows. Think of the breathing process as a small illustration of the flow of life.

When observing the entire breathing process, the situations that impede the natural breath become clear. Anxious, frenzied emotional states impact the flow of breath tremendously. Even more amazing is the impact of poor (or unhealthy) breathing on our choices and actions. I always notice when my choices turn into burdensome obligations, because my breathing becomes shallow and short. Anytime my breath becomes shallow, short or imperceptible, that’s a trigger to BREATHE (and reconsider my actions). It is not a coincidence that the definition of anxiety is, “to choke out or to suffocate.” Anxiety and the obstruction of the breath go hand in hand. This is one reason why it is important to pay attention to regulating the breathing process.

A secondary approach to support the breathing process is with the of use herbs, specifically adaptogenic herbs or simply, adaptogens. Adaptogens are specialized herbs that help us to adapt to stressful situations. By using adaptogenic herbs regularly, anxiety, which is a byproduct of stress, can be alleviated and better managed, which makes natural deep breathing much easier. Do some research, but you’ll probably agree ShenTrition is one of the best supplements to get a wide array of adaptogens. It’s my favorite, hands down!

Study how your breath works throughout the day. The flow of this common process is extremely vital to our health and personal growth. Remember to let it flow and just breathe.

Adapting to Stress

2010-01-15T12:39:00.102-07:00

To create a satisfying life, we must build a solid foundation of health. What kind of foundation? We must invest in a foundation of health. I’m referring to our whole health, or wholeness, as the origin of the word denotes. The online etymology dictionary defines health as "wholeness, a being whole, sound or well." (http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=health )

Whole health encompasses much more than allopathic medicine’s concept of health. Wholeness is beyond even the treatment goals of acupuncturists and naturopaths. True whole health requires the highest level of personal responsibility. It incorporates all the dimensions of our being: physical, emotional, mental, energetic and spiritual. Whole health is the result of embodying whole consciousness. And that is a whole lot.

Many systems outline a path toward wholeness. Likely, you have a routine that works for you. It may include exercise, meditation and a nutrition regimen, and when followed diligently, it works. But there are times we don’t work at it as well as we should. And frankly, there are times when maintaining healthful habits simply seems impractical.

Why? What happens then? Why are those times tougher than others?

Something gets in our way, right?

Simply put, that thing is stress. Just say the word, stress. It sounds like a mischievous goblin looking to sabotage everything that hard work builds. Think about it. When someone describes an obstacle, typically stress is the culprit. Call it an invisible sidekick to adversity. Fortunately, stress isn’t a masked bandit running amok; we can manage its impact on our lives.

For many of us, the word stress is somewhat ambiguous. Wikipedia states that “stress is how the body reacts to a stressor, real or imagined, a stimulus that causes stress.” According to another definition, stress relates to the pressure, pull or other force exerted on one thing by another. The source of the tension is a stressor, and the quantity, quality and duration of the tension helps to categorize it as a specific type of stressor. To better understand stress, we need to take a closer look at some of the main stressors:

Mental stressors—all mental illness, chronic unresolved issues, major life changes, excessive responsibility, self-image issues, and obsessive thinking

Emotional stressors—anger, rage, irritability, worry, anxiety, fear, fright, terror, depression, desire, lust, sadness, grief, and overexcitement

Physical stressors—too much strenuous activity such as overwork and too much exercise, trauma, starvation, medical issues, suffocation, alcohol and drug use, lack of sleep, illness, and childbirth

Environmental stressors—sudden changes in climate or exposure to severe climate conditions, electromagnetic waves (wi-fi networks), excessive exposure to sun, exposure to microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, molds, and parasites), exposure to chemical toxins (pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, heavy metals, household and industrial chemicals); also, nutritional deficiencies such as refined foods, nutrient-depleted foods, genetically modified foods, irradiated foods, trans fats, caffeine and other stimulants

Spiritual stressors—loss of direction and life purpose

As we can see, there are many stressors. Certainly, it is important to minimize our exposure to unnecessary stressors; however, because stress and stressors are a part of life, our focus should be on how we process stress. Our bodies metabolize it in two different ways: either as helpful eustress, which is anabolic in nature (meaning it builds us up), or as destructive distress, which is catabolic (meaning it breaks us down). The old saying is true: “What doesn’t kill me makes me stronger.”

Hans Selye outlined our stress response in more detail and earned the nickname “the father of stress research.” In what he called the General Adaptation Syndrome, Selye delineated a sequence of reactions the body goes through when responding to a given stressor. First, in the alarm stage, we experience an internal alert where the body prepares for action with adrenaline and cortisol. This is commonly known as the fight-or-flight response. If the stressor persists, the body goes into the resistance stage. Here the body reallocates its primary force to deal with the stressor. This is the “cope and adapt…or else” stage. If the tension persists, then the body will fall into the exhaustion stage. This is the danger zone. In the exhaustion stage, we are vulnerable to illness and weakness. Selye’s research proves that the key factor in our body’s survival is its ability to adapt, and our ability to adapt depends on our adaptive energy. Selye coined that phrase, because in situations when our adaptive energy is high, we move through stress unscathed. But when our adaptive energy is low, all things can go wrong and likely do. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stress_%28biology%29)

(Kudos to Hans!)

The importance of adaptive energy has been a part of ancient wisdom for centuries. Adaptive energy is the same force that mystics and sages have always realized as the foundation for spiritual growth, as well as for physical health and well-being. They called it prana, ki or qi (chi). Because of its vital significance, sages of antiquity sought ways to enhance chi. Guess where they found help? Yup, good ole Mother Nature had the solution—a group of rare botanicals that enhances adaptive energy more than anything else. These plants cultivated strong adaptive power because they grow and thrive in harsh conditions. When they are consumed, the body absorbs their extra adaptive power. In Chinese Medicine, these plants are called tonic herbs, for their tonifying effects. And this group of herbs is also found within Ayurveda’s Rasyayan Formulas for spiritual alchemy. As fate would have it, these botanicals were rediscovered in the West in the 1940s when Russian scientists unlocked their secret and named them adaptogens. The Russians used them to help alleviate the distress their Olympic athletes experienced from over-training. And they were used as healing aids after the 1986 nuclear spill in Chernobyl. Modern Russian research proves that adaptogens have the unique ability to bring the body into balance and lessen the effects of stress on a person, be it physical, emotional, mental or environmental stress.

"Adaptogens help the body regulate itself," says Harriet Beinfield, a licensed acupuncturist and Chinese herbalist who co-authored, Between Heaven and Earth: A Guide to Chinese Medicine, (Ballantine, 1991) with husband Efrem Korngold, a doctor of Oriental Medicine and co-director of a Chinese medical clinic in San Francisco. "One example of the amazing healing properties of adaptogens," she points out, "is that a person with low blood sugar will find an adaptogen raises their blood sugar to a normal, balanced level, while the same adaptogen taken by someone with high blood sugar will experience their blood sugar lowered toward normal levels."

In other words, adaptogens can help the body restore and maintain balance. These herbs are amazing. Just take a look at some of them and their benefits!

American Ginseng

By far the most popular adaptogen, Ginseng (pronounced gin-sing) is considered the most lucrative legal crop in the world. Ginseng has been used for thousands of years to prevent and treat an extraordinary number of problems, from premature aging to low libido, low energy and cancer. Scientific research supports its anti-carcinogenic and antioxidant properties. American Ginseng is the best variety of the Ginsengs because of its neutral healing properties.

Holy Basil

One of the most powerful adaptogens is Holy Basil. Its origin is India, and it has been known for its incredible medicinal value for thousands of years. It’s the chief herb of Ayurvedic Medicine and is heralded for its ability to reduce stress and restore homeostasis. It’s the all-in-one herb in Ayurveda, used not only to treat all kinds of ailments but also to lift one’s consciousness in spiritual pursuits.

Lycium Fruit

Lychium or lychii fruit is also known as Goji berry or Wolfberry. It is a superior tonic herb, longevity herb and another great adaptogen. It is a powerful immune stimulator and immune modulator. Lychium has been used for thousands of years to strengthen sexual vigor and enhance fertility, and it is wonderful for the skin. It promotes endurance and is a favorite among martial artists and athletes. It is said that Lycium will brighten the eyes, promote happiness, and strengthen vitality! In essence, it restores and builds the hormones that keep us vital and youthful!

Polygonum Multiflorum

Also called Fo-Ti or He Shou Wu, this herb has incredible adaptive and restorative effects. It is often used to bring about mental clarity and to invigorate the brain. However, its real claim to fame is its ability to restore youth to a tired, old body! In China, it is said to help return an aged person to youthfulness, because it is a blood tonic. It is believed to increase sperm quality and quantity in men and sexual vitality in women. Therefore, it is a powerful sexual tonic. For this reason, regular use of this herb has been shown to return the hair, nails and skin to their youthful state. Polygonum multiflorum has been shown to be a mild cleanser of the blood, too. It is a fundamental herb for spiritualists who desire to strengthen the inner fires of the procreative force.

Astragalus Root

Astragalus has been considered one of the most potent immune tonics by ancient physicians and modern researchers alike. For over 2,000 years it has been used for lifting the mood, strengthening muscles, increasing metabolism, reducing stress, and strengthening the body as a whole. In Classical Chinese Medicine, it is said to strengthen the Protective Qi, which circulates under the skin and in the myofascial tissue (the tendon-like shealth that supports the body’s structure and encompasses every muscle) and thus creates an “armor” against external pathogens. This makes it a great adaptogen. Astragalus increases the body’s adaptive energy. It also increases the upward flow of life-force that straightens posture, realigns organ position, and strengthens the connective tissue. Astragalus induces a mild diuretic action, which helps the skin to release toxins.

Atractylodes

Atractylodes is a powerful energy tonic and adaptogen. It is also well known for balancing the digestive system. It is widely used by athletes, martial artists and those interested in weight loss because of its mild diuretic action, its ability to increase metabolism and vitality, and its removal of toxins. Also, spiritualists use Atractylodes to increase powers of concentration.

Licorice

Licorice root is one of the most commonly used adaptogens, used for thousands of years to rid the body of unwanted toxins. It is known to rid the body of over 1200 toxins! Licorice increases energy and digestive power. Also, it strengthens muscles, balances blood sugar, and strengthens the adrenal glands. One of its most common uses in Chinese Medicine is as a harmonizer of herbal formulations; it enhances the synergistic relationship of the herbs in multi-herb formulas. It has been shown to be a natural mood modifier and muscle relaxant, too, thus helping the body deal with stress. In the list of adaptogens that relieve stress, Licorice must be at the top. It is important to note, however, that according to allopathic physicians, it is unwise for patients on blood-pressure medications and individuals at risk of high blood pressure to take Licorice.

Rhodiola

Rhodiola grows in one of the harshest environments on the planet, Tibet. Because of this, Rhodiola evolved to develop powerful phyto-nutrients that enable it to survive and thrive! The story goes that those who regularly took Rhodiola lived to see 100 years. It is known as a chief longevity herb and a powerful immune stimulator. Science has now proven this herb to have powerful longevity attributes, and it helps control stressful situations that lead to chronic diseases. Rhodiola also has been observed by researchers to have a potent detoxifying effect on the body. Tibetan monks have used this herb for centuries to strengthen their powers of concentration, physical endurance and spiritual development. It’s been shown to improve oxygen absorption, memory and mental clarity. It’s used as a mood lifter and is even believed to be more powerful than St. John’s Wort.

Ashwagandha Root

Ancient physicians have used Ashwagandha for everything from hiccups to cancer. No doubt it has impressive adaptogenic properties. This powerful herb is one of the best adaptogenic herbs for restoring homeostasis and relieving stress! And it has been shown to be a powerful immune tonic as well.

Dang Shen

Dang Shen is another powerful adaptogen. It has been used as an energy tonic, blood enhancer, immune stimulator and immune modulator, and a digestive tonic. It has been shown to restore homeostasis and relieve stress.

Reishi Mushroom

Reishi is one of the most powerful, potent adaptogenic herbs known to man. It is an immune booster, energy tonic, stress reliever, mood regulator and mild detoxifier. Widely used among meditation practitioners for calming the mind and inducing expanded states of consciousness, it is the most revered herb in Asia for longevity, spiritual growth, mental concentration, and vitality. To many in the East it is known as the “elixir of immortality.”

Shiitake mushroom

Shiitake mushroom, one of the most highly prized botanicals of Chinese and Japanese herbalism, is used to improve energy and blood circulation, and to strengthen the body as a whole. It is a great energy tonic as well as having a mild detoxifying effect on the cells and tissues of the body. Another powerful adaptogenic mushroom, it is a superior immunostimulator and immunomodulator (agents that stimulate the immune systems’ response and help regulate the immune responses). It balances the entire body’s systems and lowers stress and anxiety. Shiitake’s calming effects allow one to reach higher levels of awareness.

Maitake Mushroom

Maitake mushroom, like all adaptogens, has a “dual-directive” activity on the body’s systems. Dual-directive means that whether the body’s systems are deficient or excessive, Maitake helps to bring them back into balance. Maitake’s greatest benefit is to the immune system. Similar to Reishi mushroom, it has a mild calming effect as well as being a detoxifier. Additionally, it is a strong energy tonic and anti-aging food!

Shilajit

Shilajit is an incredible adaptogen used in Ayurvedic Medicine. Sanskrit texts describe it as the “destroyer of weakness.” Its rediscovery was made by Himalayan villagers who observed monkeys chewing the semisoft substance oozing from between the layers of rocks; the villagers found that when they ate the substance, it gave them incredible strength, vitality, wisdom and longevity. Later research studies showed that the substance is a combination of organic plant matter combined with the decomposing rock, containing over 85 minerals in ionic form along with fulvic and humic acids. Shilajit enhances overall strength and stamina and relieves stress and anxiety. It is a powerful rejuvenator and cleanser, too.

Schizandra Berry

Schizandra is an adaptogen that does just about everything. It is known as an herb that enhances physical as well as spiritual beauty. It’s a powerful blood tonic, as well as a blood cleanser, which is why it is said to make the skin soft, moist, and glowing. And it protects the skin from the harsh effects of the wind and sun. It also strengthens sexual energy and function in both men and women, and is an incredible endurance tonic for athletes—the two benefits often coincide. Though Schizandra sharpens the mind, improves concentration and enhances memory, it also has mild calming effects. In other studies Schizandra has been shown to improve vision and hearing.

There are a few more herbs that qualify as adaptogens. Since these herbs have such a great impact on our well-being, I call adaptogens my safety net or insurance policy. They help me stay in control of my reaction to stress. With their help, I avoid the desperate choices I could make when exhausted. And most often, adaptogens provide a boost of energy and clear mental calm.

Now we are fortunate to have access to these herbs with the click of a mouse. In the book Adaptogens; Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief, by Winston and Maimes, multi-herb formulas are recommended for their harmonizing and boosting effects. Though single-herb preparations are fine, a wide array of adaptogens proves to be more powerful and balanced. Because these herbs primarily restore balance in the body, they are safe to take on a regular, long-term basis, unlike “treatment” formulas.

Supplementing with adaptogens is the easiest step to take to support our health and wellness. Of the many choices, my personal favorite adaptogenic product is ShenTrition. I think it is the most powerful and effective formula on the market. Plus, its been mentioned in two books for its great effects (Integrative Endocrinology; The Rhythms of Life, by Dr. Don Beans and No Age Is the New Age; An Action Plan for Agelessness, A Longevity Guide for Men and Women 25 to 125, by Karen Norris and Eve Michaels.)

Do yourself a favor and take these herbs regularly! Safeguard your health and growth with adaptogens.

The Divine Marriage

2009-11-06T12:46:00.000-07:00

Marriage between two adults is a symbol or material example attempting to reveal the true marriage - the union between our divinity and our humanity. A common word used today that stands for this divine marriage is wholeness.

Wholeness involves the coupling of two polarities within our own selves, the yin and yang, female and male, non-physical and physical. Once these polarities are reunited, then we can begin our new life, our new existence, as divine beings in this material world while bringing fourth our offspring or divine creations. As whole beings, then and only then, are we able to create from a fully conscious place.
Romance in many ways is the lure that brings two people together so that they may work out this divine drama. However, rather than being a portal that takes us deeper within, romance can more times than not become an obstacle. Instead, of finding ourselves through relational interplay, we lose ourselves in the abyss of relational trauma and drama. However, if we can remain true to the path of wholeness, and view the relationship for what it is, then we are able to truly complete ourselves and thereby become fully functional beings.

The chief signpost of wholeness is undifferentiated love. Undifferentiated love is love without exception - meaning it's not contingent on any person, place or thing. It just is-Love! As complete, fully-functional beings, we not only begin to experience undifferentiated love, but it literally becomes who we are - that is we embody it. Some even say that undifferentiated love is the baseline of the universe, cosmos and beyond. Coincidentally, undifferentiated love resonates at 7.83 Hertz, which is known as the earth's pulse or what is commonly called, Schumann Resonance.

Wikepedia explains:
This global electromagnetic resonance phenomenon is named after physicist Winfried Otto Schumann who predicted it mathematically in 1952. Schumann resonances occur because the space between the surface of the Earth and the conductive ionosphere acts as a closed waveguide. The limited dimensions of the Earth cause this waveguide to act as a resonant cavity for electromagnetic waves in the ELF band. The cavity is naturally excited by electric currents in lightning. Schumann resonances are the principal background in the electromagnetic spectrum between 3-69 Hz, and appear as distinct peaks at extremely low frequencies (ELF) around 7.83, 14.3, 20.8, 27.3 and 33.8 Hz.
In the normal mode description of Schumann resonances, the fundamental mode is a standing wave in the Earth-ionosphere cavity with a wavelength equal to the circumference of the Earth. This lowest-frequency (and highest-intensity) mode of the Schumann resonance occurs at a frequency of approximately 7.83 Hz (earth pulse).

Once we've stabilized in wholeness, undifferentiated love puts us in sync with the earth's rhythm, vibe or flow; this is also synonymous with the idea of grace in Christianity, wu wei in Taosim, effortless action in Yoga or even what many athletes refer to as being in the zone. Being in this flow, or better said, "being flow" not only brings us into harmony with the earth's rhythms, but into connection with all sentient and non-sentient beings, harmonizes our biological systems, and, last but not least, carries us to our visions, intentions and goals with relative ease.

Our intentions are the offspring of this divine union. In our previous state, our intentions arose from the fear of being separate and a sense of lack. We felt disconnected, divided, and incomplete; so we sought people, places, and things in an attempt to fulfill ourselves. In wholeness, our intentions result from already being whole and therefore are an overflow or the "extra something" we have to give - they are our gifts.

If we are to seriously undertake the path towards this divine marriage, and move into flow, then we must consider the fundamental first step - taking care of the body. Our bodies are reality-generating organisms. Within our bodies the two polarities, male and female, commingle to produce their offspring or our divine intentions. If our bodies are in tip-top condition, then it is much easier for this process to flourish. If our bodies are weak or even worse sick, then our offspring (intentions) will not carry through to the full term of birth and instead lead to a miscarriage of sorts.

To ensure a fruitful union, we developed the Shen Life Starter Kit.

The Shen Life Starter Kit addresses the seven biological needs of the body. Once these biological needs are met, the body is on its way to optimum functioning and wholeness!
Watch this video to see more or email any questions. Make note of the role sexuality plays in the divine union as discussed in the video. I'll discuss that more next time...good stuff.
To whole living,
Stephen

Ancient wisdom

2009-10-17T17:10:00.000-06:00

Throughout history a rare few sages knew of certain herbal substances that would greatly enhance their spiritual awakening. In Yoga these revered herbs were called Rasayanas, alternatively, in Taoism they’re known as tonic herbs. In the West we call them adaptogens. Adaptogens enhance what Hans Seyle, the father of stress research, calls “adaptive energy;” this same energy is called prana in yoga, qi (chi) in China, ki in Japan, and in other mystical circles, it is called lifeforce. Our lifeforce is responsible for the optimum functioning of our bodies, minds and emotions. More importantly, when we have abundant lifeforce, then it is possible to ignite a spiritual awakening. The more lifeforce we have, the greater the awakening. However, even if a spiritual awakening isn’t the goal, these remarkable herbs restore balance and enhance our general health. To read more go to www.shentrition.com.