Patti Friday

TORONTO Blue Jays: FULL CEREMONY - Toronto celebrates 50 years of Blue Jays baseball and 2025 team in EPIC pregame ceremony!

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Sat, 28 Mar 2026 14:14:00 +0000

Last night’s Toronto Blue Jays game felt bigger than just the season opener, with the crowd roaring as they powered to a 3-2 finish that set the tone for the year ahead. The energy in the ballpark was electric, but it was the pregame ceremony—celebrating the 2025 American League pennant winners and marking 50 years of Blue Jays baseball ahead of MLB Opening Day—that truly stole my heart. As the tribute rolled and memories filled the stadium, I unexpectedly teared up thinking of my Dad and brother braving that unforgettable snowstorm to attend the very first game 50 years ago. In that moment, it felt like the past and present were stitched together under the lights, making last night not just a game, but a full-circle family memory.

Reactive Abuse

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 13:14:00 +0000

Reactive abuse is a term used to describe a situation where someone who is being abused reacts emotionally—often with anger, yelling, or even aggression—and the abuser then uses that reaction against them.

In simple terms:

One person is repeatedly mistreated (emotionally, verbally, or physically).
After being pushed over time, they “snap” or react strongly.
The abuser points to that reaction as “proof” that the victim is the problem.

This can make the victim look like the abusive one, especially to outsiders, and it can create confusion, guilt, or self-doubt.

A few key points:

The reaction doesn’t happen in a vacuum—it’s usually the result of ongoing stress, manipulation, or harm.
Abusers may provoke these reactions intentionally to shift blame or avoid accountability.
It’s commonly seen in emotionally abusive or manipulative relationships (like gaslighting dynamics).

Example:
Someone is constantly criticized and belittled by their partner. Eventually, they lash out and yell. The partner then says, “See? You’re the abusive one,” ignoring their own behavior that led up to it.

It doesn’t mean the reaction is healthy or okay—but it does mean context matters.

'Folkstead': Clean Country Comfort -15 Ways to Achieve the Trending Comeback of Much-loved 1980s Country Decorating Style

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Sun, 07 Dec 2025 15:56:00 +0000

I've been thinking a lot about what I'm seeing in magazines, on home networks and online. Everyone seems to be leaning in to what I'm calling,

Folkstead: Clean Country Comfort

...and I'm excited!

What is Folkstead?

In a world where interior-design trends loop back every few decades, Folkstead emerges as a fresh but deeply familiar aesthetic: a modern, clean, and enduring revival of the 1980s country decorating style. The name merges “folk” — evoking handmade charm, warmth, and tradition — with “stead,” a nod to homesteads, steadiness, and rooted comfort. But instead of the heavy frills, clutter, and pastel overload of the 1980s, Folkstead is pared down: calm, curated, and quietly timeless. It’s country comfort reimagined for today — simultaneously nostalgic and refined.

Folkstead isn’t a reaction against minimalism. Instead, it’s a bridge between cozy heritage and contemporary restraint: handcrafted details, natural materials, and sentimental motifs — but used sparingly, thoughtfully, and with purpose.

Why Now? The Return of Country & 1980s Influences

Design observers are noting a resurgence in 1980s-inspired colors like warm terracotta, soft rose tones, and deep forest greens — but re-imagined in modern, sophisticated palettes. (Homes and Gardens)
Similarly, what once was considered “over-the-top country” is being re-evaluated under the lens of cozy authenticity. The rise of “vintage farmhouse revival” and “eco-friendly elegance” show that many homeowners crave comfort, craftsmanship, and a slower pace — but with modern materials and updated styling.
As a reaction to overly minimal or cold contemporary interiors, Folkstead offers warmth, personality, and a sense of rootedness — but without nostalgia’s risks of clutter or kitsch.

In short: it’s been roughly 40 years since the 1980s country craze. Enough time has passed for those once-beloved motifs to feel vintage rather than dated — and for a new generation to reinterpret them with fresh eyes.

The Folkstead Style

Folkstead = Clean Lines + Handmade Warmth + Heritage Character.

Key principles:

Intentional simplicity: fewer objects, but ones with meaning — a handmade ceramic pitcher, a woven basket, a framed family textile, a well-worn wooden table.
Natural materials: wood (whitewashed or warmed), linen, cotton, matte pottery, woven textiles, soft-worn metals.
Muted, warm palette: no loud brights. Instead, soft neutrals, earthy tones, and gentle nods to 1980s country colors.
Graphic restraint: patterns and motifs from traditional folk or country design — but scaled back, used as accents or in abstracted, modernized forms.
Functional heritage: furniture and objects that feel lived-in and lasting — heirloom-ready, not disposable.
Light + air + texture over clutter: airy rooms, natural light, tactile layering instead of heavy ornamentation.

Folkstead Colour Palette

Here’s a curated palette — combining classic country warmth, muted 1980s nostalgia, and contemporary sensibility.

Folkstead Colour Palette (Featuring Pantone 2026: Cloud Dancer)

Pantone Color of the Year 2026 — PANTONE 11-4201 Cloud Dancer

A soft, clean, elegant white with a gentle warmth. Perfect for Folkstead’s “clean comfort” aesthetic. Use it generously on walls, trim, cabinetry, and textiles to achieve the breezy, contemporary clarity of this style.

Swatch / Name	Approx. HEX	Use
Cloud Dancer (Pantone 11-4201)	`#F0EFEA` (approx.)	The ultimate Folkstead base color — walls, trim, ceilings, cabinetry, slipcovers. Soft, clean, warm.
Soft Cream	`#F9F6F2`	A warmer companion white — use for contrast trim, accessories, or layered whites.
Warmed Linen	`#E8E3DA`	Upholstery, curtains, bedding, cushions — adds depth to a Cloud Dancer room.
Muted Sage	`#A9B8AA`	Accent walls, painted furniture, throws — soft greenery without overpowering.
Dusty Rose	`#D8C5C3`	Small accents: pillows, candles, pottery — a gentle nod to 1980s country pastels.
Terracotta Clay	`#C77E58`	Pottery, vases, rustic lamp bases — adds grounded warmth.
Forest Fern	`#4B5A50`	A deeper anchoring green for cabinetry, statement furniture, or rugs.
Weathered Pine	`#B8A58C`	The wood tone of Folkstead — natural, sun-softened, not orange or yellow.

How Cloud Dancer Elevates Folkstead

Creates a clean, bright canvas that still feels warm and livable.
Works with the revived 1980s country palette without feeling retro.
Enhances natural materials like pine, oak, rattan, linen, and matte pottery.
Allows muted colors and folk motifs to stand out without loud contrast.

Cloud Dancer becomes the light and air of Folkstead — the modern ingredient that makes the revival feel current rather than nostalgic.

Patterns, Motifs & Textiles

Folkstead avoids maximalism. Here are favored motifs and when to use them:

Scaled-down gingham / miniature check: in table linens, napkins, or a single cushion — for a subtle country echo.
Abstracted folk florals or stylized wildflowers: not busy floral prints, but simplified silhouettes on pillows or curtains.
Muted plaid or patchwork: re-imagined in neutral tones for quilts, throw blankets, or rugs.
Natural stripe: linen or cotton stripe fabrics — simple and timeless.
Hand-drawn folk art symbols (hearts, simplistic geese or animal silhouettes, wheat sheaves, primitive stars): used sparingly — maybe one framed graphic print, or a motif on a ceramic jug.
Textured weaves: linen, hemp, homespun cotton, hand-loomed rugs — texture replaces flashy patterns.

Avoid: large busy florals, dense wallpapers, neon colors, overly glossy or synthetic prints. The aim is calm, not clutter.

Furniture & Materials Guidelines

Solid wood over veneers: pine, oak, maple or even birch — preferably with a gentle patina or a lightly whitewashed finish. Warm weathered pine fits beautifully.
Avoid overly ornate carving or heavy distressing: go instead for simple silhouettes, gentle curves (soft backs on chairs, rounded table corners), and smooth craftsmanship.
Handcrafted & heirloom-ready: choose pieces that can age with your home — a handmade dining table, a woven chest, a painted pine cupboard.
Mixed seating: pairing a rustic wood bench with soft upholstered chairs, or a simple spindle rocking chair beside a streamlined sofa.
Subtle metalwork: wrought iron or matte-brass hardware — simple drawer pulls, modest light fixtures — nothing flashy or industrial-heavy.
Natural or matte finishes: matte pottery, unglazed ceramics, woven baskets, linen slipcovers — avoid high-gloss varnishes or overly polished metals.
Functional craftsmanship: pieces that are meant to be used — e.g. a farm table, a bench with storage, woven laundry baskets, wooden bread boards.

15 Ways to Bring Folkstead Into Your Home

Looking to try Folkstead? Here are practical ways to bring it to life:

Paint walls in Soft Cream & add Matte-White Trim — instantly brighten and open your space while giving a neutral canvas.
Swap heavy curtains for linen drapes in Warmed Linen or Muted Sage — lightweight and airy.
Introduce a handmade wooden dining table or farmhouse bench — keep it simple, sturdy, and central.
Use one statement painted piece (e.g. a dresser or cabinet) in Forest Fern or Terracotta Clay to ground a living area or bedroom.
Add woven baskets or pottery in earthy tones — perfect for storage and visual texture over clutter.
Update textiles with muted plaid or gingham pillows — small accents hinting at country roots without overwhelming.
Layer with a handmade soft quilt or throw blanket — plaid or patchwork, but in subdued tones.
Incorporate handcrafted ceramics — jugs, vases, bowls — simple shapes and matte finishes.
Use matte or brushed metal hardware on furniture and kitchen cabinetry — no shiny chrome, but soft brass or black iron.
Add natural fiber rugs — jute, sisal, or low-pile wool in neutral tones, under seating or tables.
Hang one piece of folk-style wall art — e.g. a simple silhouette of a goose, a wheat sheaf, or a primitive heart — as a meaningful nod to tradition.
Mix seating styles at the table — one wooden bench + a couple of linen-upholstered chairs + a spindle rocking chair — for a relaxed, collected feel.
Let woodgrain show — avoid covering everything with slipcovers or paint. If you paint wood, do so gently, preserving some grain or distress for warmth.
Use functional decor — baskets, breadboards, pottery — instead of purely decorative knick-knacks. Let items have purpose.
Keep circulation and light in mind — fewer, more meaningful pieces so spaces don’t feel cluttered; let natural light and texture do the work of making the room cozy.

Folkstead: More Than a Trend — A Living Aesthetic

Folkstead isn’t about recreating grandma’s house — or replicating 1980s country exactly. It’s about reinterpreting that warmth, that sense of home and hearth, for today’s lives. It values authenticity over kitsch, craft over mass-produced decoration, and longevity over passing fad.

In a design world often oscillating between cold minimalism and maximalist nostalgia, Folkstead offers a balanced third way: cozy but clean, rustic but refined, wistful but grounded.

Whether you’re starting from scratch or slowly editing your home room by room — Folkstead can become more than a style. It can become the quiet, comforting story your home tells.

Let Go and Let God

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 13:32:00 +0000

A softer way to move through hard days....

You’ve probably heard the phrase “Let go and let God” at some point—maybe on a card, a bookmark, or from someone trying to offer comfort. It’s simple, but when life feels overwhelming, it can also feel impossibly vague. How do you actually do that? How do you release something that’s wrapped so tightly around your thoughts?

For me, this phrase has always been less about giving up and more about loosening my grip. It’s the reminder that I don’t have to hold onto every worry as if the entire outcome depends solely on my strength. There are moments when we do everything we can—every phone call, every conversation, every bit of effort—and still, the situation is bigger than us. That’s where this idea comes in: trusting that something beyond our own hands is at work.

Letting go doesn’t mean you stop caring. It doesn’t mean sitting back and expecting life to sort itself out while you do nothing. It simply means recognizing the limits of your control. You take the steps that are yours to take, and then you breathe. You soften. You allow space for what you cannot see or predict.

When we cling tightly to fear or outcomes, we wear ourselves down. We replay the same thoughts, revisit the same worries, and carry weight that was never meant to be ours. But when we let go—even a little—we invite a sense of relief. Sometimes, answers arrive unexpectedly. Sometimes clarity comes when we stop forcing it. And sometimes the situation doesn’t change immediately, but we do. We feel lighter, steadier, more anchored in trust than in fear.

“Letting God” is a way of saying: I’ve done my part. I’m releasing the rest. It’s an act of faith, yes, but also an act of kindness toward ourselves.

None of this is easy. It’s a practice we return to again and again. Some days we’re good at it. Other days we tighten our grip without even realizing it. And that’s alright. The point is simply to keep trying—to remember that we are not meant to carry everything alone.

When we let go, we make room for grace, guidance, and gentler possibilities. It’s a small surrender, but a powerful one.

Peace Love Create Art and Gather,

Patti xo

The Faux-Naive Charm of Patti Friday’s Canadian Folk Paintings

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 12:05:00 +0000

Coming in 2026....more paintings!

Patti Friday’s paintings are playful works on paper and canvas inspired by Canada, folk art traditions, cultural storytelling, and deeply personal symbolism. Rendered in a faux-naive style, they celebrate bold colours, simplified forms, and a strong visual charm that feels both expressive and warmly accessible. Her work lives at the intersection of fine art and decorative art, offering pieces that are rich with meaning while beautifully enriching the spaces they occupy without pretence or pedigree. Patti creates free-spirited narratives that honour place, memory, and the handcrafted spirit of folk expression.

Vase: A Poetry Collection: A Body Filled With Memory, Desire, and Decades of Womanhood

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Mon, 01 Dec 2025 14:35:00 +0000

Vase: Bold, sensual, unflinching. Poems of desire, love, heartbreak, and the fierce power of the female body—celebrating what it holds, creates, and gives.

Suddenly, when faced with endometrial cancer, (Sept. 2025), it was as if the archive of my life insisted on being seen. The female vessel—the vase that holds so much, creates so much, carries so much—was under threat, and with that came an urgent, electric clarity. My body spoke. My memory stirred. My heart answered.

Vase , by Author Patti Friday, is a daring, intimate collection of poems spanning decades, exploring desire, love, loss, and the fierce, tender power of the female body. Written in a raw, sensual, and sometimes abstract voice, these poems honor the body as vessel, memory, and source of creation, while tracing the joys, heartbreaks, and revelations that shape a woman’s life. From clandestine youthful encounters to mythic reflections on intimacy, Vase celebrates the fullness of living, loving, and being entirely seen.

The Art of Seeing: Defining My Photographic Voice Through Three Words

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Thu, 13 Nov 2025 16:38:00 +0000

From Observation to Emotion: The Journey to a Journalistic, Cinematic, and Poetic Lens

In developing my photographic voice, I spent time doing what I call creative mining—a process of style excavation to uncover the essence of how I see and express the world through my camera. It wasn’t about choosing trends or mimicking influences; it was about digging deeper into what feels true, what consistently shows up in my work, and what emotionally resonates with me. I sifted through thousands of my images, looking for recurring moods, visual rhythms, and themes. Slowly, patterns began to surface—threads that revealed not only what I photograph, but how and why I photograph.

After much reflection, I discovered that three words best describe my artistic approach: Journalistic, Cinematic, and Poetic. These words became touchstones, each representing a facet of my creative identity.

Journalistic speaks to my desire to capture authenticity and truth—to photograph life as it unfolds, candidly and without artifice. It reminds me that storytelling through observation is at the heart of my practice.

Cinematic reflects my love of atmosphere, drama, and visual storytelling. It’s the part of my art that thinks in scenes rather than stills, where lighting, framing, and emotion combine to create a sense of movement and narrative beyond the frame. This word captures the way I aim to make photographs feel like moments from a film—real yet heightened, intimate yet expansive.

And finally, Poetic represents the quiet pulse of my work—the softness, symbolism, and emotion that underlie each image. It’s about expressing mood and meaning through nuance rather than clarity, letting suggestion speak louder than statement. Together, these three words form a compass for my photographic journey: Journalistic for truth, Cinematic for story, and Poetic for feeling.

Excavating My Style: How I Found My Three Words—Journalistic, Cinematic, and Poetic

Journalistic photography fits within the realm of art photography by transforming real events into powerful visual narratives that balance truth with creative expression. While it remains candid and documentary in nature—capturing unstaged, authentic moments—it also draws on artistic choices in composition, light, and emotion to tell stories that move viewers as much as they inform them. In this way, it bridges fact and feeling, journalism and art.

Cinematic photography fits within art photography through its use of storytelling, atmosphere, and emotion inspired by the language of film. It transforms still images into scenes that feel part of a larger narrative, using dramatic lighting, rich color grading, and intentional composition to evoke mood and tension. While grounded in realism, cinematic photography heightens reality, creating an artful blend of visual poetry and storytelling that feels both intimate and cinematic.

Poetic photography fits within art photography by expressing emotion, mood, and meaning through subtle visual language rather than direct representation. It often focuses on atmosphere, symbolism, and the beauty of ordinary moments, inviting viewers to feel rather than simply see. Through softness, abstraction, and a sense of contemplation, poetic photography transforms images into visual poems—intimate, interpretive, and deeply personal works of art.

NEW Canadian Poetry Book for Holiday Gifting 2025 by Author Patti Friday The Pirate Code

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 12:49:00 +0000

Amazon

Dear Friends,

In the last 4 weeks I gathered up almost every poem I'd ever written since 2010. I'm happy to share with you that all of these poems are now in this new book!

Set your compass for uncharted emotional waters. The Pirate Code is a fiercely imaginative collection of poems that blends nautical mythology with intimate inner voyages. Patti Friday explores courage, desire, rebellion, and the hidden laws that govern every heart. From storm-tossed longing to the quiet anchor of hope, each poem reveals the wild territories we dare to claim as our own. Bold, lyrical, and deeply human—this is a treasure map for anyone navigating life’s restless seas.

Order from Amazon EVERYWHERE!

Peace Love Create Art Gather,

Patti xo

Christmas Gift Ideas for Children 2025: Lucky the Christmas Mushroom Book by Patti Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Sat, 11 Oct 2025 10:36:00 +0000

"Lucky The Christmas Mushroom" is hoping you will make his story part of your holiday traditions!

Pine Tree Island is a magical place. Lucky The Christmas Mushroom lives there. He has a very important seasonal project to wrap up with his team of forest friends! A fun, folktale that is sure to become part of your family's holiday traditions! A festive story for kids of all ages!

Available HERE.

Reproductive Cancer: Anatomy of the Spirit The Seven Stages of Power and Healing

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 13:11:00 +0000

Caroline Myss devotes thoughtful attention to the second energy center, or sacral chakra, in Anatomy of the Spirit. While she doesn’t single out reproductive cancers by name in a diagnostic way, she uses them as symbolic reflections of the issues connected to this chakra’s domain: emotional intimacy, creative expression, sensuality, and guilt.

Here’s an expanded interpretation drawn from her framework and related teachings:

The Sacral Chakra (Second Energy Center)

Location: Lower abdomen, pelvis, reproductive organs
Sacrament (Christian parallel): Communion
Kabbalistic Correspondence: Yesod — the foundation of connection
Theme: Relationships, pleasure, creativity, and the power of choice
Core lesson: Balancing intimacy with independence; learning how to give and receive love, energy, and pleasure appropriately.

Energetic Symbolism and Emotional Dynamics

The sacral chakra governs our emotional identity — how we form relationships, express desire, and share energy with others. It’s the center of:

Sexuality and sensual pleasure
Fertility and creativity (both literal and symbolic — birthing ideas, art, or new beginnings)
Emotional honesty and boundaries
Guilt and shame related to pleasure, body, or sexuality

When this energy center is blocked, suppressed, or wounded, it often reflects long-held emotional conflicts such as:

Feeling unworthy of love or intimacy
Experiencing sexual trauma or repression
Guilt about pleasure, creativity, or self-expression
Losing oneself in caretaking or codependent dynamics
Suppressing creative urges to please others
Living with chronic shame about one’s body or desires

Reproductive Cancers and the Sacral Chakra (Symbolic View)

In Myss’s framework, reproductive cancers (ovarian, uterine, cervical, prostate, testicular, etc.) can symbolize energy that has turned inward destructively because of unresolved emotional or relational wounds.

She describes this not as blame but as a spiritual metaphor:

“When creativity or emotional truth is chronically denied, the life force begins to stagnate or decay, expressing itself through the body.”

In other words:

A woman who suppresses her creative calling to meet everyone else’s needs might eventually feel “lifeless” in her center of creation (the womb area).
Someone who associates intimacy with pain or betrayal may unconsciously close off this energy, leading to numbness or energetic congestion.
Guilt over sexuality, abortions, infidelity, or body shame may translate into cellular “messages” that the body is at war with itself.

The spiritual healing journey, then, becomes about clearing guilt and shame and reclaiming the sacredness of creation and pleasure.

Healing Lessons for the Sacral Chakra

According to Myss, healing the energetic patterns tied to the second chakra involves:

Forgiveness and Emotional Honesty
- Acknowledge and release emotional pain connected to relationships or sexuality.
- Forgive yourself and others for past experiences that created shame or guilt.
Creative Expression
- Engage in art, writing, dance, or other forms of creation — these acts awaken the flow of life force.
- Creativity is not indulgence; it’s how your spirit manifests vitality.
Reclaiming Pleasure and Joy
- See pleasure as sacred, not sinful.
- Restore balance between giving and receiving — allow yourself to experience joy without guilt.
Healthy Boundaries
- Honor your emotional truth.
- Learn to say “no” or “yes” from a place of integrity, not fear or obligation.
Body Reconnection
- Practices like gentle yoga, breathwork, or mindful movement can reconnect you with this center physically and energetically.

Key Affirmations (from Myss’s teachings and chakra tradition)

“I deserve to feel pleasure and joy.”
“My creativity flows freely and safely.”
“I honor my body as sacred.”
“I release guilt and embrace my right to feel alive.”

In Myss’s view, when energy begins to flow again through this center — when guilt is released and creative power is reclaimed — the body’s own healing intelligence is reactivated.

Cancer Books: Anatomy of the Spirit: The Seven Stages of Power and Healing

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 13:03:00 +0000

Caroline Myss discusses cancer in Anatomy of the Spirit, but not as a medical manual. She speaks about it primarily in spiritual and energetic terms, rather than biological ones.

Here’s how she frames it:

1. Cancer as an Energy Imbalance

Myss views cancer as a manifestation of deeply held emotional or energetic blockages — often linked to:

Long-term resentment, grief, or guilt
Loss of personal power or identity
Suppressed anger or forgiveness issues

She explains that when we hold these energies over time, they can “congeal” into physical illness. The body mirrors the spirit’s struggles.

2. Emotional and Chakra Correlations

While she doesn’t claim that every cancer is caused by a specific chakra imbalance, she suggests certain emotional patterns may weaken related energy centers:

Breast or lung cancers → often tied to heart chakra (love, grief, forgiveness)
Digestive cancers → linked to solar plexus chakra (self-esteem, power, control)
Reproductive cancers → linked to sacral chakra (intimacy, creativity, guilt)

She emphasizes that these connections are symbolic tools for self-awareness, not a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment.

3. The Spiritual Lesson

Myss suggests that people facing serious illness like cancer are often being invited to undergo a profound spiritual awakening — to examine how they have used their power, where they’ve given it away, and how they can reclaim their spirit’s vitality.

Healing, in her view, involves:

Radical self-honesty
Forgiveness
Releasing fear and resentment
Choosing to live from spiritual integrity

4. Myss’s Stance on Medicine

She is not anti-medical treatment.

She insists that physical treatment (surgery, chemotherapy, etc.) should go hand in hand with spiritual and emotional healing. Her approach is complementary, not alternative.

Anatomy of the Spirit: The Seven Stages of Power and Healing

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Thu, 09 Oct 2025 12:41:00 +0000

Here’s a clear, insightful summary of Anatomy of the Spirit: The Seven Stages of Power and Healing by Caroline Myss — a foundational book connecting spirituality, energy, and health.

Overview

Published in 1996, Anatomy of the Spirit weaves together psychology, spirituality, and medicine, presenting a powerful framework for understanding how emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being influence physical health. Caroline Myss—an intuitive medical author—argues that illness originates not only in the body but also in energetic and emotional imbalances.

She integrates:

These systems align with what she calls “the seven centers of power”, forming a spiritual anatomy that mirrors the physical one.

The Seven Energy Centers (and Their Lessons)

First Chakra – Tribal Power (Root / Sacrament of Baptism)
- Theme: Connection to family, community, and identity.
- Lesson: Learning to honor the tribe while discovering individuality.
- Imbalance: Fear, insecurity, family wounds, survival struggles.
- Physical ties: Immune system, bones, legs, rectum.
Second Chakra – Relationship Power (Sacrament of Communion)
- Theme: One-on-one relationships, creativity, sexuality.
- Lesson: Balancing intimacy and independence.
- Imbalance: Guilt, shame, power struggles.
- Physical ties: Reproductive organs, lower back, bladder.
Third Chakra – Personal Power (Sacrament of Confirmation)
- Theme: Self-esteem, willpower, autonomy.
- Lesson: Developing self-respect and personal responsibility.
- Imbalance: Low self-worth, anger, control issues.
- Physical ties: Digestive system, liver, pancreas.
Fourth Chakra – Emotional Power (Heart / Sacrament of Marriage)
- Theme: Love, forgiveness, compassion.
- Lesson: Healing emotional wounds and embracing unconditional love.
- Imbalance: Grief, resentment, jealousy.
- Physical ties: Heart, lungs, circulatory system.
Fifth Chakra – The Power of Will (Throat / Sacrament of Confession)
- Theme: Speaking one’s truth, faith, choice.
- Lesson: Aligning will with Divine will.
- Imbalance: Lies, repression, inability to communicate.
- Physical ties: Throat, thyroid, mouth, jaw.
Sixth Chakra – The Power of Mind (Brow / Sacrament of Ordination)
- Theme: Intuition, perception, wisdom.
- Lesson: Seeing truth beyond illusion.
- Imbalance: Illusion, fear of self-awareness.
- Physical ties: Eyes, brain, nervous system.
Seventh Chakra – The Power of Spirit (Crown / Sacrament of Extreme Unction)
- Theme: Spiritual connection, divine awareness.
- Lesson: Trust in the greater pattern of life; unity with all.
- Imbalance: Cynicism, spiritual disconnection.
- Physical ties: Central nervous system, brain.

Core Teachings

Your biography becomes your biology.
Every thought, belief, and emotion shapes your body’s health. Chronic negative emotions can manifest as illness.
Healing is about power.
Health depends on reclaiming personal power lost to fear, resentment, guilt, or dependency.
Forgiveness is medicine.
Letting go of blame restores energy flow and invites physical and spiritual renewal.
Intuition is your guide.
Learning to trust your intuitive self is essential for spiritual growth and healing.

Purpose of the Book

Myss encourages readers to view themselves as energetic beings whose life experiences—past and present—are imprinted on their bodies. Healing requires conscious awareness, emotional maturity, and spiritual integrity.

Ultimately, Anatomy of the Spirit offers a map for self-healing, connecting traditional faith practices with modern holistic medicine.

Order book HERE.

The Light Therapy Book: Using Light to Live Longer

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 11:07:00 +0000

ORDER: The Light Doctor

The light we see is as important for our health as the food we eat, the water we drink, and the air we breathe. For most of human existence, our ancestors lived with the natural 24-hour light-dark cycle, spending each day in natural daylight and sleeping in the dark at night. But since the widespread introduction of electric light, more than 90% of our time is spent indoors, under unhealthful and human-unfriendly electric light, which disrupts our circadian clocks and greatly increases the risk of cancer, obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and hundreds of other diseases.

Today’s LED fixtures, light bulbs, and screens are designed to produce cheap light with little regard for human health. Like DDT and asbestos, they are dangerously flawed technologies. THE LIGHT DOCTOR reveals extensive scientific evidence establishing the risks of blue-rich artificial light at night. Furthermore, it provides the practical information you need to counteract these risks at home, and in workplaces, schools, hospitals, and senior care facilities.

Here is how to find and install healthy light bulbs and fixtures for both residential and commercial spaces, how to obtain the lights you need for evening and night use versus daytime, and how to obtain energy-efficient light that is also safe and healthy. You will also learn which outdoor lights to install to avoid harmful effects on wildlife, another inadvertent consequence of the LED revolution.

NEW Book: Tommie's Tomato Stand by Patti Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Sun, 21 Sep 2025 17:40:00 +0000

Love, Laughter, and a Historic Leap Across the Atlantic

Tommie never thought her little farm stand—stacked with tomatoes, fresh bread, and pies—would place her at the heart of small-town history. But Wasaga Beach in the 1930s was full of surprises. Between barn dances lit with twinkling lights, chocolate tomato soup wedding cake, cousins strumming banjos, and neighbors raising toasts, Tommie discovers not only her love story but also her place in a community bound together by courage and kinship.

Amid the laughter and farm-fresh charm unfolds an extraordinary event: the legendary 1934 transatlantic flight that roared into the skies from Wasaga’s sandy runway. Ordinary people—beachers, farmers, families, tourists, and dreamers—played their part in a moment of aviation history that carried the spirit of a small town all the way to England.

Blending humor, folklore, and heartfelt storytelling, Tommie's Tomato Stand is a celebration of family, community, and the way love takes root in the most unexpected places.

5 Daily Longevity Habits From Quintuple Board-Certified Physician Dr. Monisha Bhanote

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 20:53:00 +0000

Dr. Bhanote, the visionary founder of WELLKULÅ, is a quintuple board-certified physician and best-selling author, widely recognized for her expertise in Integrative Lifestyle Medicine, Functional Culinary Medicine, and Cytopathology. Her work, deeply rooted in health and wellness, has made her a sought-after expert, enriching lives through her speaking engagements and insightful written contributions.
In her dedicated pursuit of wellbeing, Dr. Bhanote harmoniously integrates ancient wisdom with modern mind-body science. Her dedication to plant-powered nutrition is central to her groundbreaking research on gut, brain, and cellular health, underscoring the critical roles of the microbiome and inflammation management in the journey towards longevity. Combining mindful practices with scientific precision, Dr. Bhanote's approach paves the way for sustained health and mental clarity, advocating a lifestyle that enriches both body and mind, leading to comprehensive cellular wellbeing.
Order her book here.

The 5 daily habits of a longevity doctor

To sum up Bhanote's behaviors for longevity, here's what she does daily for her overall health and wellness:

For her body: Healthy eating, mindful movement, brain-healthy activities, optimal sleep and social connections
For brain health: No ultra-processed foods, eating mainly home-grown fruits and vegetables, meditating and walking four or five miles a day
For social fitness: Connecting with people virtually multiple times a day, networking at speaking engagements
For her daily diet: Plant-based, gluten-free foods that are the different colors of the rainbow. 10 different kinds of fruits and veggies in each meal
For her media diet: Podcasts and audiobooks

Deepak Chopra’s Seven Spiritual Laws of Success Summary

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Sat, 30 Aug 2025 18:03:00 +0000

1. The Law of Pure Potentiality – You are pure consciousness

Your essence is infinite, creative, and connected to all life.
Practice: Spend time in silence or meditation daily. Appreciate nature. Connect with your inner self before acting.

2. The Law of Giving – The universe operates through exchange

Giving and receiving create abundance. Share freely—love, attention, or resources.
Practice: Compliment someone, offer help, or express gratitude each day.

3. The Law of Karma (Cause and Effect) – Every action has a consequence

Every choice generates results. Make conscious, mindful choices.
Practice: Pause before decisions. Ask: “Will this action bring happiness or harm?”

4. The Law of Least Effort – Effortlessness comes from acceptance

Accept things as they are; don’t resist. Respond instead of reacting.
Practice: Let go of unnecessary struggle. Focus on actions aligned with love and purpose.

5. The Law of Intention and Desire – Intentions have power

Thoughts and intentions shape reality. Set clear, positive intentions.
Practice: Write down your goals and visualize them daily. Release attachment to the outcome.

6. The Law of Detachment – Freedom comes from letting go

Letting go of control creates openness to infinite possibilities.
Practice: Accept uncertainty. Trust that life can unfold in ways better than you imagine.

7. The Law of Dharma (Purpose in Life) – Everyone has a unique gift

Fulfillment comes from using your talents to serve others.
Practice: Discover your natural strengths. Ask: “How can I contribute?” Align work and daily actions with this purpose.

In short: Chopra teaches that success and happiness arise naturally when we connect with our inner self, live consciously, give freely, and act with love and purpose.

50 Top Herbal Medicine Plants

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 22:42:00 +0000

Here’s a professional herbalist’s list of 50 top plants commonly used in Western herbal medicine. These are among the most relied-upon botanicals for their therapeutic value:

50 Top Herbal Medicine Plants

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) – calming, digestive aid
Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) – digestive, antispasmodic
Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea/angustifolia) – immune support
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) – anti-inflammatory, nausea relief
Turmeric (Curcuma longa) – anti-inflammatory, liver support
Garlic (Allium sativum) – antimicrobial, cardiovascular health
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) – sleep and anxiety
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) – anxiety, insomnia
Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) – nervous system tonic
Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna/laevigata) – heart and circulation
Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) – liver protection
Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica) – nutritive, anti-allergy
St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) – mood balance, nerve healing
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) – liver, digestion
Licorice Root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) – adrenal, respiratory, digestive
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) – skin healing, lymphatic
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) – relaxation, antimicrobial
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) – circulation, memory, antioxidant
Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) – respiratory, antimicrobial
Sage (Salvia officinalis) – throat, memory, hot flashes
Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) – wound healing, fevers, circulation
Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) – calming, antiviral, digestive
Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) – adaptogen, stress, vitality
Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) – adaptogen, energy, mood
Ginseng (Panax ginseng/Panax quinquefolius) – adaptogen, stamina
Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica) – cognitive, wound healing
Holy Basil/Tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) – adaptogen, respiratory, stress
Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum) – blood sugar balance, warming
Cloves (Syzygium aromaticum) – antimicrobial, digestive
Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) – digestive, lactation
Cardamom (Elettaria cardamomum) – digestion, circulation
Hops (Humulus lupulus) – sedative, digestive
Kava (Piper methysticum) – anxiety, relaxation
Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) – digestion, dream tonic
Oregano (Origanum vulgare) – antimicrobial, respiratory
Plantain Leaf (Plantago major/lanceolata) – wound healing, soothing
Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra) – demulcent, digestive
Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis) – soothing, mucous membrane health
Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) – topical wound/bone healing
Black Cohosh (Actaea racemosa) – menopause support
Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) – lymphatic, women’s health
Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) – women’s health, blood tonic
Blue Vervain (Verbena hastata) – stress, muscle tension
Eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus) – adaptogen, endurance
Ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba) – circulation, memory
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) – antiviral, immune support
Elderflower (Sambucus nigra) – fevers, colds, sinus health
Cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon) – urinary tract health
Cornsilk (Zea mays stigma) – urinary soothing
Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) – connective tissue, diuretic

Well-being: The Ancient, Modern, and Very Necessary Pursuit of Feeling Good

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Sat, 16 Aug 2025 17:10:00 +0000

Let’s be honest: “well-being” is one of those words that gets thrown around so much it almost sounds like a fancy spa treatment. (“Excuse me, I’ll have the aromatherapy massage with a side of well-being, please.”) But underneath the buzzword-y glow, well-being is one of the most important, timeless, and universal human quests—something we’ve been chasing since we figured out fire was useful for more than roasting marshmallows.

So, what is well-being, really?

At its core, well-being is the state of being comfortable, healthy, and happy. It’s not just the absence of sickness or stress—it’s the presence of positive stuff: energy, purpose, connection, meaning, resilience, and, yes, maybe even a good night’s sleep (unicorn-level rare, I know). It’s physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, and even financial. Basically, well-being is the whole kit and caboodle of being human.

A (very quick and fun) history of well-being

Well-being isn’t a new idea. Ancient Greeks were already pondering it, using the word eudaimonia, which roughly translates to “human flourishing” (and sounds like a fancy olive oil, but it’s not). Meanwhile, in ancient India, well-being was baked right into Ayurveda and yoga—entire systems designed around harmony of body, mind, and spirit. The Chinese had qi and balance, Indigenous peoples everywhere practiced holistic well-being through community and connection to nature, and medieval monks wrote about the joy of contemplation.

Fast forward to today, and we’ve got well-being apps pinging our phones, workplace “wellness initiatives” with free granola bars, and self-care trends that range from green smoothies to goat yoga. We might chuckle, but the truth is: humans have always been obsessed with feeling good, staying healthy, and living meaningful lives.

Why is well-being important?

Here’s the short answer: everything works better when we’re well.

For ourselves: When we prioritize well-being, we have more energy, clarity, and resilience to handle life’s curveballs (including in-laws, taxes, and Wi-Fi outages).
For our families: A well-balanced parent, partner, or grandparent sets the tone for the whole household. When one person invests in their well-being, it ripples through family dinners, bedtime routines, and even the dog notices.
For the economy: Believe it or not, well-being is big business. Healthy, happy people are more productive, creative, and less likely to burn out. Countries that prioritize citizens’ well-being often see stronger economies (and less money spent on preventable healthcare crises).
For society: Communities with higher well-being tend to have lower crime, better education, and more civic engagement. Translation: well-being makes people more likely to vote, volunteer, recycle, and maybe even smile at strangers.

The bottom line

Well-being isn’t just a personal indulgence—it’s a collective investment. It’s history, science, culture, and community rolled into one. And while we can’t control everything (hello, global news cycle), we can choose to water our own little well-being gardens: moving our bodies, eating something that grew in the ground, connecting with loved ones, getting enough rest, finding meaning in our days, and yes—sometimes splurging on that latte because joy counts, too.

If you’ve ever wondered if your pursuit of well-being is selfish, let me reassure you: it’s not. It’s contagious. It strengthens not only you, but your family, your community, and even the economy. (And who knew your bubble bath could be so patriotic?)

So, let’s raise a green smoothie—or a glass of red wine, both valid—to well-being: the ancient, modern, and absolutely necessary art of feeling good.

To flourish in the context of well-being means more than just “getting by” or “surviving”—it’s about thriving in every layer of life. Physically, it’s having the energy and strength to move through your days with vitality. Mentally, it’s cultivating clarity, curiosity, and resilience. Emotionally, it’s feeling balanced, connected, and able to navigate ups and downs with grace. Spiritually, flourishing means living with a sense of purpose or connection to something greater than yourself. And yes, even financially, it’s about stability and freedom—the ability to make choices that support your health and happiness. To flourish is to live fully, with all these dimensions in harmony, so your life feels expansive rather than constrained.

JOIN my private Friday Flourish Facebook Group HERE.

To flourish is to thrive—body strong, mind clear, heart steady, spirit grounded, and finances free enough to support it all.

After: A Doctor Explores What Near-Death Experiences Reveal about Life and Beyond Book by Dr. Bruce Greyson

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 09:27:00 +0000

The world's leading expert on near-death experiences reveals his journey toward rethinking the nature of death, life, and the continuity of consciousness.

Cases of remarkable experiences on the threshold of death have been reported since ancient times, and are described today by 10% of people whose hearts stop. The medical world has generally ignored these “near-death experiences,” dismissing them as “tricks of the brain” or wishful thinking. But after his patients started describing events that he could not just sweep under the rug, Dr. Bruce Greyson began to investigate.

As a physician without a religious belief system, he approached near-death experiences from a scientific perspective. In After, he shares the transformative lessons he has learned over four decades of research. Our culture has tended to view dying as the end of our consciousness, the end of our existence―a dreaded prospect that for many people evokes fear and anxiety.

But Dr. Greyson shows how scientific revelations about the dying process can support an alternative theory. Dying could be the threshold between one form of consciousness and another, not an ending but a transition. This new perspective on the nature of death can transform the fear of dying that pervades our culture into a healthy view of it as one more milestone in the course of our lives. After challenges us to open our minds to these experiences and to what they can teach us, and in so doing, expand our understanding of consciousness and of what it means to be human.

Buy: After (Amazon)

The Signs by Tara Swart MD PhD

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 09:21:00 +0000

The neuroscientist, medical doctor, and powerhouse author of The Source shares the lost art of listening to your intuition and allowing the signs around you to guide the way to achieving the life of your dreams.

"This is more than a book, it’s a healing experience." — Jay Shetty, #1 New York Times bestselling author and host of On Purpose Podcast

Buy: The Signs (Amazon)

Have you ever thought of someone just before they called? Or experienced a coincidence that felt too unlikely to be true?

It’s all too easy to dismiss synchronicities or signs like these as chance. But what if they weren’t? And what if, by learning to tune into them, you could access a guiding wisdom that would help you overcome challenges and cultivate personal growth?

In this groundbreaking book, world-renowned neuroscientist Dr. Tara Swart explains how. Bringing together breathtaking real-life stories with teachings from cognitive psychology, near-death experiences, and much more, she’ll show you how to:

Tap into your most important decision-making tool: your intuition.
Break free from the distractions and stress of modern life and focus on what matters most.
Shift your mindset from fixed thinking to openness and wonder, so you can see life’s limitless possibilities.

With compelling theories about the nature of consciousness, and transformative tools to create a deep connection with the signs around you, let this book empower you to trust your instincts and thrive like never before.

India Reads: Blue, bold, and divine—your favorite Hindu Gods just got a 21st-century upgrade

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 00:07:00 +0000

Imagine if the Hindu Gods walked among us in 2025—liking memes, sipping creamy blue lassis in hip cafés, navigating 21st-century chaos, and still finding ways to save the day.

Blue Lassi is a dazzling, genre-bending collection of short stories where timeless legend collides with surreal modernity, splattering divine brilliance across the unpredictable, endlessly scrolling landscape of our times.

Here, Krishna drops irresistible DJ sets in secret basement clubs that move bodies and awaken hearts. Durga sparks a blue lassi uprising so audacious it flips the world upside down. Kali channels her fierce energy in the kickboxing ring, unstoppable as ever. Hanuman skyrockets to viral fame, flexing both his colossal strength and a kindness as boundless as the horizon.

Woven through each tale is the color blue—otherworldly, eternal, electric—a shimmering thread binding every divine adventure. It is the hue of endless skies, sacred waters, and the lassi that seals their shared vow of joy, rebellion, and unstoppable vitality.

Told with whimsical wit and reverent depth, Blue Lassi reframes the holy for our messy, modern lives—revealing that the divine doesn’t just dwell in temples or sacred texts. It hides in midnight text threads, gridlocked streets, bustling bazaars, and impromptu street parades. Magic is here. Always. You only have to notice.

Whether you’re drawn by the gods, the color, or the glorious pandemonium, you’ll leave with more than stories—you’ll leave with a reminder: the sacred can be playful, the profound can be cheeky, and the blue is always waiting for you.

Blue Lassi by Lee Sunday – Available now worldwide on Amazon. Join the movement. Savor the wonder. Drink the blue.

These tales reimagine the divine, inviting readers to find the sacred not only in temples and scriptures—but in late-night texts, traffic jams, messy lives, and joyful revolutions.

Blue Lassi is a love letter to the Gods, to India, and to everyone searching for magic in the mundane.

ORDER Kindle or Paperback

Amazon USA

Amazon Canada

Amazon India

Amazon UK

Amazon Australia

Plants & Herbs I’m Loving Right Now Thanks to Herbalist Simon Mills and DOAC

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 22:18:00 +0000

I’ve always believed that plants aren’t just for looking pretty in a vase or brightening up a windowsill. They’ve been looking after us for thousands of years—helping us heal, feel better, and even think more clearly. Lately, I’ve been reading and listening to herbalist Simon Mills (a walking encyclopedia of plant wisdom!) and I just had to share some of the herbs and spices he recommends.

Here’s the lovely thing: you don’t need a rare jungle root or an expensive tincture to start. Many of these are right in your spice rack or growing in your garden.

Spices: Your Everyday Kitchen Medicine

Every time you sprinkle cinnamon on your oatmeal or stir turmeric into soup, you’re doing more than making food taste delicious—you’re adding little plant powerhouses into your day. These “phytonutrients” (fancy word for the good stuff in plants) help calm inflammation, keep your gut happy, and even give your brain a boost.

Some favourites:

Ginger & Cinnamon – Warm, cozy, and so good for digestion. Ginger has a zing that wakes you up, while cinnamon feels like a hug from the inside.
Rosemary (and Sage) – Just sniffing fresh rosemary can wake up your mind. It’s amazing for memory and focus. I sometimes add a sprig to hot water for a gentle tea—or even just inhale the steam.

I order my pure rosemary essential oil from here. I do breathwork inhaling it a few times just by opening up the cap!

I diffuse a POWERHOUSE pure essential oil blend called ARMOR. I get it here.

Armor up against whatever’s going around with this protective blend! It’s always there for us during cold weather with its warm, spicy, and camphor-like aroma. Armor contains a powerful blend of cinnamon, clove, eucalyptus, lemon, and rosemary. Try diffusing it to help freshen your environment or simply rub it into your palms and take a few deep breaths.

Yes, Chocolate Counts

You’ll be happy to know that Simon Mills gives a thumbs-up to dark chocolate—but not just any bar from the candy aisle. We’re talking at least 75% cocoa. The higher cocoa content means more flavonoids, those wonderful plant compounds that help your heart, circulation, and even mood. A small square or two after dinner can be both a treat and a little dose of plant medicine. It’s rich, it’s indulgent, and it’s doing more good than guilt—if you keep it in moderation.

The Calm Energy of Green Tea

I’ve always loved the gentle lift from a cup of green tea. Unlike coffee, its caffeine is paired with L-theanine, an amino acid that smooths out the jitters and helps you focus. Simon points out that it’s also brimming with antioxidants that support brain and heart health. Whether you like it hot, iced, or whisked up into a frothy matcha latte, green tea feels like an easy daily habit that your body will thank you for.

Coffee, Done Right (I order mine from The Wellness Club)

Good news for my fellow coffee lovers—coffee can be a health ally, too. Simon says it’s not just about the caffeine kick; it’s packed with polyphenols that can protect your cells from damage. The trick is to keep it real—skip the sugary syrups and heavy cream, and aim for a clean, quality brew. Two cups a day is a sweet spot for many people. For me, that first morning cup is less about the caffeine and more about the comforting ritual—the aroma, the warmth, and the slow start to the day.

Happy Gut, Happy You

Your gut is more than a food tube—it’s home to your immune system, mood support, and overall health. When you feed it well, everything else benefits.

Meadowsweet – A gentle, stomach-soothing herb that’s much kinder than aspirin. Perfect after a big or rich meal.
Eat the Rainbow – No, not candy. I mean colourful fruits and veggies—deep greens, reds, purples, oranges. Each colour brings a different kind of healing magic.

Herbs for Warming & Comfort

Feeling a bit under the weather or chilled to the bone? Herbs can help you warm up and get your immune system moving.

A simple ginger and cinnamon tea is a go-to for me when I feel a sniffle coming on. It warms you from head to toe and just makes you feel cared for.

Helping the Heart & Mind

Some herbs work quietly in the background, keeping your circulation, heart, and brain healthy.

Ginkgo – Known for helping blood flow to the brain, which can keep your mind sharper.
Hawthorn – A gentle, heart-supporting herb that also helps with blood vessels. It’s like a quiet guardian for your cardiovascular system.

Try This Week

Make a “Spice Mix” – Turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, maybe cardamom or fennel. Stir into soups, curries, or even smoothies.
Rosemary Tea or Steam – Steep a sprig, sip slowly, or inhale the scent—it’s uplifting.
Meadowsweet Tea – Gentle and soothing for digestion.
Cardamom in Coffee or Tea – Subtle and comforting.
Ginkgo or Hawthorn – If you’re curious about heart or brain support, chat with a qualified herbalist and give them a try.

Plants are everyday magic. They don’t shout about what they can do—they just quietly show up for us. Maybe this week, try adding one of these herbs or spices to your routine and see how you feel.

And if you have a favourite plant or spice you swear by, tell me. You know I’ll want to try it too.

View The Wellness Store Info

A Rising Tide of Kindness: Why Service Is Life’s Greatest Work

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Sun, 10 Aug 2025 23:38:00 +0000

To Enhance the Lives of Those We Touch by Helping People Reach Their Goals.

“A rising tide lifts all boats.”

It’s a proverb meaning that when conditions improve—such as economic growth, community well-being, or shared opportunity—everyone benefits, not just a select few.

LEARN one way to serve others here.

It’s often used in economics and politics, but it also works beautifully as a philosophy for service: if you focus on lifting the whole, everyone—including you—rises together.

Service to others is often described as the highest calling because it shifts the center of life away from self-absorption and toward contribution. When you focus on service, you align with something larger than yourself—whether that’s community, humanity, or even the well-being of future generations.

Here’s why it’s so powerful:

It gives meaning beyond personal gain. Material success and personal achievements can bring joy, but their satisfaction often fades. Acts of service create enduring fulfillment because they’re rooted in purpose, compassion, and shared human connection.
It builds deeper relationships. Service fosters trust, gratitude, and reciprocity. People naturally gravitate toward those who uplift and support them, which strengthens both personal and communal bonds.
It expands empathy and perspective. Helping others pulls you out of the narrow lens of your own challenges. It opens your eyes to diverse realities and teaches humility, resilience, and understanding.
It creates a legacy. What you do for yourself often ends with you, but what you do for others ripples outward—affecting families, communities, and sometimes entire generations.
It transforms you. Service shapes character. It replaces ego with humility, fear with courage, and isolation with connection. Many people discover their truest selves not when they’re striving for their own gain, but when they’re working to improve someone else’s life.

It’s not about grand gestures. Service can be as simple as kindness in conversation, sharing knowledge freely, or helping a neighbor. Over time, these acts accumulate into a life of richness and significance.

If you live in service, you don’t just leave the world better than you found it—you also live better while you’re here.

Service is the quiet art of living for more than yourself.

It is the steady turning outward—toward the needs, hopes, and burdens of others—like a flower bending toward the sun.

When you give of your time, your attention, your hands, or your heart, you enter into an ancient rhythm: the same one that’s kept villages alive, healed strangers, and carried humanity through its darkest winters. Service makes you part of something infinite.

It dissolves the walls of “me” and “mine,” letting you see the great weaving we’re all caught in. Every thread you lift strengthens the fabric for someone else, and in doing so, your own strand grows brighter, stronger, more unbreakable.

A life spent in service is not a smaller life—it is the largest one possible. For when you give, you do not lose; you multiply. Every kindness sows seeds in soil you may never walk upon, yet the flowers will bloom, and their scent will carry your name long after you are gone.

Serve not for recognition, but for the quiet knowing that you have been a light in the lives of others. For in the end, all we leave behind is the love we gave away.

“Live to lift. Give to grow. Love to last.”

Service to Others.

Ditch & Switch: Is one way to help others. Show them how easy it is to ditch the toxic products they have in their homes and switch to cleaner, greener, safer products from The Wellness Club.

You will be serving families as they improve their overall well-being and income too. Learn more here.

The Mind Diet: Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay Boost Brain Health Reduce the Risk Alzheimer’s Disease and other Dementia

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 15:12:00 +0000

The MIND diet is a way of eating designed to boost brain health and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.

Its name comes from Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay, because it combines two well-studied diets:

Mediterranean diet – emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and healthy fats like olive oil.
DASH diet – designed to lower blood pressure, rich in vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and low in salt and processed foods.

The MIND diet takes the brain-protective elements of both and focuses on foods linked specifically to slower cognitive decline.

Core Principles

It encourages 10 “brain-healthy” food groups and limits 5 “unhealthy” groups.

Eat often:

Green leafy vegetables (spinach, kale, etc.) – at least 6 servings/week
Other vegetables – at least 1 serving/day
Berries (especially blueberries, strawberries) – at least 2 servings/week
Nuts – 5 servings/week
Olive oil – primary cooking oil
Whole grains – 3 servings/day
Fish – 1 serving/week (fatty fish preferred)
Beans – at least 4 servings/week
Poultry – 2 servings/week
Wine – 1 glass/day (optional; red is common, but not required)

Limit:

Butter/margarine – less than 1 tablespoon/day
Cheese – less than 1 serving/week
Red meat – less than 4 servings/week
Fried/fast food – less than 1 serving/week
Pastries/sweets – less than 5 servings/week

Benefits

Linked in studies to slower memory decline and lower Alzheimer’s risk
Supports overall heart health (which benefits the brain)
Focuses on nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods

MIND Diet Food Guide

Brain-Healthy Foods to Enjoy

Food Group	Goal (Per Week/Day)	Examples (Canada)
Green Leafy Vegetables	6+ servings per week	Spinach, kale, Swiss chard, bok choy, romaine lettuce
Other Vegetables	1+ serving per day	Carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, cucumbers, tomatoes
Berries	2+ servings per week	Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries
Nuts	5 servings per week	Almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, pecans, cashews
Olive Oil	Use as primary oil	Extra virgin olive oil for cooking & dressing
Whole Grains	3+ servings per day	Brown rice, quinoa, oats, whole wheat bread, barley
Fish	1+ serving per week	Salmon, sardines, trout, mackerel, herring
Beans	4+ servings per week	Lentils, chickpeas, black beans, kidney beans
Poultry	2+ servings per week	Chicken breast, turkey
Wine (optional)	1 glass per day	Red or white wine (optional; drink responsibly)

Foods to Limit

Food Group	Limit	Examples
Butter/Margarine	< 1 tablespoon per day	Butter on toast, margarine in baking
Cheese	< 1 serving per week	Cheddar, mozzarella, processed cheese
Red Meat	< 4 servings per week	Beef, pork, lamb
Fried/Fast Food	< 1 serving per week	French fries, fried chicken, takeout burgers
Pastries/Sweets	< 5 servings per week	Cakes, cookies, doughnuts, candy

Serving Size Examples

Vegetables: 1 cup raw or ½ cup cooked
Berries: ½ cup fresh or frozen
Nuts: 1 small handful (about 1 oz or 28 grams)
Whole grains: ½ cup cooked (rice, oats, quinoa) or 1 slice bread
Fish: 3-4 oz cooked portion
Beans: ½ cup cooked
Poultry: 3-4 oz cooked portion
Cheese: 1 oz (about the size of 4 dice)
Pastries/Sweets: 1 small piece or serving

Tips for Success

Use olive oil instead of butter or margarine for cooking and salad dressings.
Snack on nuts and berries instead of chips or candy.
Plan 1-2 fish meals per week with fatty fish like salmon or mackerel.
Fill half your plate with vegetables at meals.
Choose whole grain breads, cereals, and pasta instead of white or refined.
If you drink alcohol, enjoy one glass of wine with dinner occasionally.

Can Plants Help My Heart? Let’s Talk Cholesterol + the Whole Food Plant-Based Life

noreply@blogger.com (Patti Friday) — Thu, 07 Aug 2025 13:07:00 +0000

You know when you hear something over and over again—like a whisper from the universe that turns into a full-blown shout? That’s what happened to me with cholesterol. It kept popping up in conversations, on lab reports, in quiet worried thoughts at 3 a.m. I tried 2 different statins and the side effects had me suffering with whole body aches that became unbearable. I called my Doctor and told him 'NO statins' for me! Hey Cholesterol! One day I decided to stop brushing it off like a dropped pea under the kitchen table and actually do something about it.

Enter: the Whole Food Plant-Based (WFPB) lifestyle. Not a diet. Not a trend. Just a more intentional, colorful, life-giving way to eat.

So, What is Whole Food Plant-Based Eating?

In the simplest terms:
Whole = as close to nature as possible (unprocessed or minimally processed).
Food = real food, not food-like substances.
Plant-Based = vegetables, fruits, legumes, grains, nuts, and seeds galore.

No animal products. No dairy. No oils (if you’re going all-in). Definitely no “cheeze-powder-dusted-fake-meat-crunchy-things” from the middle aisle of the grocery store.

It’s food your great-grandparents would recognize. You know… before everything came shrink-wrapped or pre-seasoned with words you can’t pronounce.

The Big Cholesterol Question

Can this lifestyle really lower cholesterol?

Yes. Yes. YES. (And I say this both personally and passionately.)

Here's why:

Animal products and processed foods are the main culprits in raising LDL cholesterol—aka the "lousy" kind. Plants don’t contain dietary cholesterol at all. And when you fill your plate with fiber-rich, antioxidant-packed foods, your body starts cleaning house. Arteries cheer. Heartbeats dance.

Some plant foods even act like little brooms, sweeping cholesterol out of your bloodstream. Hello, oats, beans, and flaxseeds—I see you working your magic.

THE JACKPOT:

When you cut out meat and dairy from your diet, you’re essentially giving your body a cholesterol vacation—in the best possible way. That’s because animal products are the only source of dietary cholesterol. Plants? They don’t come with any. None. Zilch. So by embracing a whole food plant-based lifestyle, you’re naturally eliminating cholesterol from your plate without counting a single gram or reading confusing labels. It’s like quietly removing the troublemakers from the party and suddenly the whole room feels lighter, calmer, healthier.

Real Talk: My Experience

Let me be clear. This wasn’t about perfection. I didn’t suddenly become a quinoa guru overnight. I stumbled. I craved cheese (don’t we all?). I googled “does butter count as a plant?” more than once.

But over time, something shifted. I started to crave how good I felt—lighter, clearer, more energized. And when I saw the numbers move in the right direction? That was the cherry on top (an actual cherry, not the maraschino kind swimming in syrup).

I became my own experiment—and my cholesterol levels thanked me.

What I Learned Along the Way

Fiber is your friend. It binds to cholesterol and helps usher it out of your system like a bouncer at a sketchy nightclub.
Nuts and seeds aren't the enemy. In moderation, they support heart health. Think: a sprinkle of walnuts, not a jar of almond butter with a spoon.
Reading labels is a full-time job. But it gets easier, promise.
Cooking at home is empowering. I never thought I'd get this excited about lentils.
Your taste buds change. What once tasted “too healthy” becomes deliciously satisfying.

Final Thoughts (With Love + Broccoli)

This isn’t about restriction. It’s about abundance. There’s so much beauty (and flavor!) in plants. A WFPB lifestyle isn’t just good for your cholesterol—it’s good for your mood, your sleep, your skin, your whole self.

And if you’re plant-curious, heart-concerned, or just tired of feeling blah—consider this your nudge.

You don’t have to go all in tomorrow. But maybe try a Meatless Monday. Or swap cream for oat milk. Or eat a rainbow that didn’t come from a candy wrapper.

Your heart (and future self) will thank you.

With leafy green love,
Patti

NOTE: This is my personal wellness experience and not intended as medical advice.