How peace became my purpose

It's been 8 years since it all started. Since I threw myself into the world of Energy Healing, Chakras, Quantum Physics and never looked back. I have become an Reiki Master Teacher, An integrative nutrition health coach, a mentor, teacher and facilitator to many people, holding a space for them to heal.

I have had my heartbroken, had another child, been diagnosed with a chronic illness, had both my children put into care, survived a pandemic and still have an open heart to explore all the beauty that life has to offer.

Lately I have been thinking about what truly matters to me, what lights me up on a soul level and how I want to show up in life especially in my work.

I guess what I really look for is my life and how I measure my success is how peaceful I feel, how soothed my nervous system is and how quickly I can walk away from the things that don’t align with my peaceful state.

Although I have never officially had an ADHD diagnosis I have always suspected that I just saw life very differently, whilst my younger years I was constantly craving dopamine and not always healthy habits, I take pleasure in a trip to the gym, a stroll on the way to the coffee shop to get my favourite coffee, planning a trip with my children. I take life a lot slower, I savour the small simple pleasures, I take my time rather than rush into everything, I have developed more patience. I am healthier, happier but I am not as wealthy as I used to be. But with peace , you don’t have to be.

You see I measure my success on how much quality time and magical moments I share with my children. How much deep rest I get, how many belly laughs I can have.

I have worked with many wealthy people and I have seen and known first hand how chasing the paper and constantly on the hustle can do to us. Especially burnout in which I see so many people experience, especially women and even more so ADHD women.

If we could measure our success on how much peace, how much time and how much joy we had would we really be successful?

I also appreciate how different we all are. That we all have different life goals. But take a moment to pause and think about your life, your creation.

Did you smile?

Are you proud?

How do you feel in your body?

Often enough we can deny our role in how our life is being played out, we are unware of how our thoughts and feelings contribute to the actions we take or don’t take. We are powerful beings, we are the creators of our reality. And if we don’t like something we can change direction, we can become someone new, we can start again.

I decided to leave a peaceful life, away from the should do's and have to's, away from the pressure of societal norms. I decided to create my own peace of Heaven on Earth.

Keep checking in on what feels good and what doesn’t and this is how you can create your own bliss too.

I am delighted to announce the launch of London Soul Retreat, a space to come and escape the matrix. A place where you can put your soul on the agenda. Follow on Instagram or sign up for my newsletter for more info

If you are looking for a way to improve your health and general wellbeing book a free consultation. Quantum Health is my signature program where I coach you to optimal health.

Book a free consultation now

Sending you Love + Light and infinite wisdom

How to hack your hormones and boost metabolism even over 40

Dear friends,

I am not going to lie aging can be scary and dangerous we all hear about the stories of our bodies deteriorating. But lucky for me I already recovered from a chronic illness and was confident I took take my health to another level.  I knew hormones were connected to our metabolism.  I wanted to feel I did in my 20's and 30's and I was now in my 40's. I knew with enough patience I could see what I could do
As you get older there is a decline in hormones…

• Then slower metabolism…

• Then age-related inflammation…

• Then unexpected joint pain…

• Then there's the wrinkles

I know personally it was the struggle everyday to find the motivation.  Even the lack of libido and sex drive was lacking.No matter what I was doing I had serious uncomfortable, uncontrollable fat-storage. I am a health coach, I eat well, I manage mt sleep,  I work out. I don't over endulge in processed food. I rarely drink. I have done gut testing.  I understand the human body but I felt like a hypocrite and I knew I could look and feel better.  So I went on a mission to understand at a deeper level how to hack my body at a cellular level to optimize my health and I knew this was hormone related.

The solution to all my belly fat struggles was lying dormant inside EVERY cell of my body—waiting to be "reawakened. And this is possible for you in your 40's, 50's and even 60's.

This is all to do with how your body functions at a cellular level. It increases your sexual desire,  it breaks down and burns stubborn body fat, I also noticed a reduction in my cellulite, my skin was getting tighter and even I had less inflammation in my body. Which was measured through blood tests. I was sleeping more deeply. I was handling my stress and feeling way more calm than ever. My mood was elevated, my periods were better and overall I just felt like I had way more energy, the same kind of energy I did have in my 20's and 30's. The bonus is that this simple hack was actually reversing aging. I no longer even have to worry about age related issues. This has nothing to do with how much you eat or how much you exercise I know because I was doing that and so were all of my clients. This is a simple daily protocol which is going to awaken your cells to boost your metabolism and actually get the results you need and fast. I dropped at least 7lbs in the first 10 days.

Because if growing old catches you by surprise, like it did me, you don't have to beat yourself up anymore! You don't have to suffer through another bout of painful, boring exercise. You don't have to slave away in the kitchen cooking healthy meals. You don't have to give up your social life.Or sacrifice your favorite foods.And you don't have to resort to dangerous diet pills, expensive procedures, or deadly medications.

Instead all you have to do is turn on this ONE RECEPTOR hidden inside your cells. Not only that because my time is precious in fact it's one of my core values,  I don't even exercise everyday because I am single mum of 2 and between the home and clients I just don't have the time. You can easily reset your hormones and it's easy, cost and time effective and you will get the results you want fast. I am sure like me you have tried every diet under the sun.

Mediterranean.

Nutrisystem.

My Fitness Pal.

Paleo.

Keto.

Plant-based.

None of these things worked for me (or my clients) either. Sure, you might lose a few pounds when you first start but this is almost always very temporary. Because they don't focus on aging metabolism and some diets even damage your metabolism. It's not common knowledge these days, but if you have unexplained weight-gain if you're struggling to lose weight and nothing seems to be working.It always means it's a hormonal problem.

The truth is once people pass the age of 40, the hormones responsible for regulating your body weight steadily decline. Which means lower energy, unexplained fat-storage, lack of focus, and cravings for junk food…Unless we take proper action. Once we solely focus on hormones you are guaranteed to lose weight faster and maintain a healthy weight especially compared to those who crash diet.

This is the reason why you can't lose belly fat, and why it's not your fault this is happening.It's just your hormones that's all.Your primary care doctor won't even mention this imbalance, because they're taught to treat the symptom not the disease.

Even though it's the one and only thing that really matters.And dieting can really only make things worse in my opinion.When you cut out certain food groups, like carbs, it only suppresses hormones even causing more metabolic slowdown.There are two ground-breaking clinical trials below confirm exactly what causes severe weight-loss plateaus after 40. It's the same reason every person over 40 struggles with stubborn pockets of fat no matter how hard they diet or exercise.

The first study was published in the prestigious journal Obesity, and the second was from the New England Journal of Medicine. For any person 40 years old wondering why their body won't respond like it did in their 20s and 30. After just 8 weeks of completely ignoring dieting and exercise and just optimizing hormones instead.These same dieters also had a 34% decrease directly from their waistline.

The next study reveals the second (and even more problematic) hormonal challenge for people beyond 40. In fact, the low-carb dieters in one eye-opening peer-reviewed research paper still had inadequate weight-loss hormone levels over ONE year later.Remember when you were young and you could still stay thin no matter what you ate? Well, that's because your thyroid gland was functioning properly. But when we get older, you don't produce adequate thyroid hormone. So your body just "hangs on" to every ounce of fat. Of course, AGE is just part of the problem but today's most popular diets only make it worse in my opinion.

It's the Vicious Cycle of yo-yo dieting every adult beyond 40 experiences .You start a low-cal or low-carb diet and your Thyroid hormones plummet, your metabolism actually slows down then your body fuels weight "regain" This leads to what the New England Journal of Medicine calls:"Obesity Relapse"

You see, all the years of toxic buildup from the foods we eat. The water we drink and even the very air we breathe each day contribute to a slow-functioning thyroid.Hazardous substances like insecticides,2 PCBs,3 flame retardants, dioxin, BPA, phthalates, 4 cadmium, lead, and mercury

ALL of these are regularly found in the urine and blood of even the most fit and healthy people.MOST harmful toxins are structurally similar to thyroid hormones.

Every cell has a receptor for thyroid hormones, which is responsible for fueling your entire hormonal system.So when your thyroid gland is functioning optimally. You lose weight twice as fast, while feeling focused, energized, and pain-free.But when it's off, you'll feel beyond rotten.

The reason this happens is because it's your body's master fat burning gland

It performs 3 critical functions.

First: Thyroid hormones regulate your ability to control bodyweight

Second: Thyroid hormones increase the speed of your metabolism

Third: Thyroid hormones are responsible for rebalancing ALL other fat-burning hormones.

This means your insulin,cortisol,leptin,ghrelin even your growth hormone. These are all controlled and optimized by one thing your thyroid gland. By increasing thyroid hormone production automatically helps 'rebalances' all your weight-management hormones.

How your body and organs function at the cellular level.

How well you sleep

How much sexual desire you have.

How you metabolize and absorb the foods you eat.

How young you look and how fast your body ages.

How well your body can fight off diseases and viruses.

How you break down and burn stubborn body fat.

You could starve yourself and nibble on bibs of lettuce all day long or pound away on the treadmill, torturing yourself day after day.,

NONE of these things will do a thing to change how your body looks, until you "reawaken" your thyroid gland.So,unless you know how to activate the full, fat-burning potential of each cell inside your body, with adequate thyroid hormone production you'll continue to struggle with excess belly flab, inflammation, and chronic fatigue.

Now you can hopefully start to see what was happening inside my body that was stopping me from "releasing" all that stubborn belly fat.It's the same thing that is probably happening inside your body too.However, here's the great news if your thyroid homones are being produced at full capacity weight loss becomes virtually effortless

It doesn't matter if you have hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)  or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) or if you're like most people you might be just dealing with age-related fat-storage (like I was). Or maybe you're taking thyroid medication it doesn't matter every person beyond age 40 can burn 10x more fat just by "turning on" the thyroid receptors inside each of their cells.Things like thyroid meds can artificially stimulate your thyroid but they're really just a band-aid covering up a bigger problem, they just treat the symptoms and not the root-cause, not to mention the unwanted side-effects such as racing heartbeat, shakiness, hunger, anxiety, sweating, thinning hair, and fatigue.So whether you're on thyroid medicine or not—it's irrelevant.

Now you guys know I am an integrated nutrition health coach. I completed my training in 2019. Prior to that I have been studying the mind, body connection and learning and teaching about the Chakra System. Also this is all very much connected, thyroid issues can also come from having a blockage in our Throat Chakras. I already knew a lot about the Thyroid but started to research more into what key nutrients could balance this gland.

And that's when I learnt  about the key nutrients to add to my daily. After age 40, the thyroid receptors inside our cells are shut off. And how this special combination of nutrients will turn them back on. This is the "key" to unlocking all the fat trapped inside every cell of your body and finally get the flat belly, slim body, and fast metabolism you so deeply desire. And also this will be music to most of your ears of course don't overeat the bad stuff, like sugar, but stop worrying about how many calories you eat, and don't be afraid to eat carbs.

Now I've always been a science geek. I been biohacking my body for years, I know I look at least 5 years younger because of all the information I have learnt but this is where things got really interesting. I started to research what key ingredients to hack my hormones and burn fat.

The first nutrient I want to talk about is Iodine.

Iodine deficiency is surprisingly common and affects nearly a third of the world's population. Which means there's a very strong chance you're one of them.Unfortunately, today's toxic world has stripped our diets of nutrient dense food sources containing iodine.

In fact, over the last 40 years, average iodine levels in people's diets have declined by 50 per cent. Your body can't make thyroid hormones without Iodine. When there is insufficient (or no) iodine in the foods you ea. Your thyroid gland doesn't have the raw material it needs to do what it is designed to do.Since your body cannot make iodine on its own, the ONLY way to get the right amount is through outside sources.But if you provide your body with the adequate levels of iodine it needs it will improve your overall metabolic health in several different ways.

Converts thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) into its active, usable form to help regulate body weight and increase resting metabolic rate (RMR) a powerful antioxidant protection (as potent as vitamin C) responsible for preventing thinning hair and brittle nails and reduces thyroid gland inflammation.It's safe to say, Iodine is more than just essential in order for you to optimize your body's master fat-burning gland.It's pretty much mandatory.

The 2nd Thyroid Hormone Booster Is Called Selenium

Selenium and Iodine have a synergic relationship that makes this another "essential" nutrient for thyroid hormone production.It also helps the body produce the powerful antioxidant known as glutathione. This protects the thyroid gland from free radicals.This reduces inflammation and combats oxidative stress and most importantly Selenium Converts Your T4 Inactive Thyroid Hormones Into The T3 Active Form Your Body Can Readily Use. 

This, in turn, allows this trace-mineral to "activate" your thyroid hormones so they can be used by all the cells of your body. As you can see Selenium is critical for thyroid health for a variety of evidence-based reasons.

Protecting your thyroid gland from toxins and inflammation. Guarding your cells from damage and infections and ultimately making sure your body can convert T4 into T3, arguably the most important part of thyroid gland health.

Top food sources of Selenium are Brazil Nuts ( just one a day and your hitting your RDA (recommended daily allowance) Tuna ( Yellowfin) Lean Pork Chops, Beef Skirt Steak, Lean Chicken Breast, Firm Tofu, Wholewheat Pasta, Shrimp, Shitake Mushrooms 

The 3rd thyroid hormone booster is Zinc.

It's pretty common knowledge nowadays if you're over 40, there's a 95% chance you're deficient.The research also shows Zinc deficiencies are associated with DECREASED thyroid hormone levels and lower resting metabolic rate. However, participants in one study who took zinc for 12 months had T3 levels come into the normal range.What I never realized over the years is that Zinc helps thyroid hormones to regulate your metabolism. It achieves this goal by signaling the thyroid gland to release thyroid hormones.Further accelerating your body's ability to burn resistant body fat.

Top food sources of Zinc are Oysters, Beef, Chicken Leg, Firm Tofu, Lean Pork Chops, 

Hemp Seeds, Lentils, Low Fat Yoghurt, Oatmeal, Shitake Mushrooms

Although these first three ingredients are extremely powerful, there's two things that can potentially blunt their effect. Stress and depression, how many times have you sabotaged your diet because you're stressed out or depressed? Stress and depression are two hidden causes of thyroid inflammation.So if you don't manage your stress levels properly or decrease your symptoms for depression. Your thyroid gland can take a serious hit. 

That's where the fourth powerhouse nutrient, ashwagandha, comes in. Ashwagandha is an incredibly healthy medicinal herb that's classified as an "adaptogen". This simply means it will help you manage your mood and stress levels. Leading to a healthier master fat-burning gland. Also Ashwagandha has been shown to increase circulating levels of T3 and T4 thyroid hormones. I use this supplement and it’s been definitely keeping my active life balanced.

The next rarely-talked-about thyroid booster is Bladderwrack…This nutrient is one of the world's highest iodine containing sea vegetables. It has such a high bioavailability.Bladderwrack effectively delivers thyroid hormones to every one of your cells. I have been using this supplement for a couple years now. But remember you don’t want to overdo it. Too much of a good thing is also a bad thing. It would be wise to check on your thyroid and monitor your iodine levels.

The last nutrient is a neurotransmitter called, L-Tyrosine.While we already know iodine is essential for a healthy thyroid it cannot create thyroid hormones without the help of its fat-fighting friend, L-tyrosine.This amino-acid helps the body produce the three most important thyroid hormones: T3, T4, and T2.

This is precisely why the latest research studies show a strong link between insufficient L-tyrosine levels and low amounts of thyroid hormones. Simply put, if you don't have enough L-tyrosine inside your body. Your thyroid can't make the hormones your body needs in order to burn fat for fuel. All these nutrients on their own are extremely effective.But when you combine them all. It creates a "synergistic" effect that will dramatically boost your thyroid hormones.

I tend to get all my nutrients from food and this is easy because I  am not Vegan or Vegetarian I get a good mix from plants and animal products.  Vegans and Vegetarians will benefit from supplementing and in most cases it's absolutely necessary. 

Top sources of  Tyrosine in food are Beef ( Skirt Steak) Lean Pork Chops, Fish (Salmon) Lean Chicken Breast, Firm Tofu, Milk, Low Fat Ricotta Cheese, Large White Beans, Squash Pumpkin Seeds, Wild Rice.

Now I have been trying this protocol for a while now combined with a parasite protocol because I know parasites feed on Zinc and also steal all your nutrients.  To be honest, I think doing a Parasite Cleanse is in everyone's best interest. What's been happening to my stomach and waistline has blown my mind, my stomach looks like I am in my 20's I am 41 and have two children,  to be honest I didn’t think I could look or feel so good. I do cardio/weight sessions 3x a week. I eat well but I don't really restrict, if I want the croissant I will eat the croissant. I don't count calories,  I still drink alcohol but week after week I am getting tighter and my stomach is getting more flat. I am beyond excited for the possibility long term, not to mention I feel amazing with the same level of energy I had on my 20's plus an extremely healthy libido.

If you're in your 40s, 50s or 60s wondering why your body won't respond like it did when you were younger. It can do the exact same thing for you too. All I did was take a few seconds each day to use this blend of thyroid-hormone-boosting nutrients before my first or second meal each day.That's the only change I made and it's been phenomenonal. 

If you're over 40 years old, I want you to think back through all the years you've been on this planet. All the stress, toxins,processed food and things like alcohol. Plus the body lotions, shampoos, soaps, shaving creams, deodorants, Even the air we breathe,and the water we drink. All these daily conveniences contain hundreds of hidden toxins that are routinely found in our blood and urine and they're all inside your body right now, causing inflammation of your thyroid gland.In other words if you have a pulse, if you breathe and eat, and if you're over 40 years old your thyroid gland has been compromised.So, if you ever want to get the firm, flat belly you've always desired.

If you want to wake up in the morning bursting with energy, ready to leap out of bed like a kid on Christmas morning. If you want to look in the mirror every day and be proud of what you see.If you want your friends and family to be shocked and "in-awe" of how thin you've become.If you want to restore your confidence and self-esteem back to the days of your youth.If you want to eliminate the worry or need for expensive doctor visits and dangerous medications.If you want to button up those skinny jeans without having to suck in that belly. Now I had to search high and low through dozens of medical literature and of course we take into consideration I am a health coach, a Reiki Master who understand what the Thyroid needs from a Metaphysical perspective. it's actually easy when you understand everything from all angles.  You see the Throat Chakra is all about openess and fluidity and self expression is how we communicate our needs to the world. A healthy metabolism keeps us moving through life. It's key to our longevity and a way of us continuing our unique individual creations. 

These are the key ingredients your Thyroid needs are: Iodine,Selenium,Zinc, Ashwagandha, Bladderwrack, L-Tyrosine

But to enhance even further I also recommend  B12 (supports thyroid energy production to eliminates fatigue) 

Magnesium (helps convert T4 into the active thyroid hormone T3)  Food Sources include Spinach, Squash/Pumpkin Seeds, Hemp Seeds, Lima Beans, Tuna, Brown Rice, Quinoa, Almonds, Brazil Nuts, 85% Cocoa Dark Chocolate.

Schizandra (fights against thyroid free radical damage) You would need a supplement and I highly recommend adding to your life for the many health benefits outside of it’s potential for the thyroid.

Copper (helps the thyroid gland function optimally) you can find this Liver, Oysters, Spirulina, Wheatgrass, Moringa, Shitake Mushrooms, Almonds, Cashews, Lobster, Leafy Greens, Dark Chocolate. I would focus on food because you only need in small amounts.

Manganese (further reduces thyroid inflammation) and is responsible for several functions of the body including metabolism and anti oxidant properties as well as bone health and development, wound healing. You can find in nuts such as almonds, pecans, beans, legumes, oatmeal, bran cereal, Wholewheat bread, Brown Rice, leafy green veg such as Spinach. Fruits such as Pineapple and Acai, Dark Chocolate.

Molybdenum (prevents toxic buildup of fluoride, which can damage the thyroid).You probably haven't heard of this trace mineral but it is essential to your health, your body only needs small amounts and you can find Legumes, Black eyed peas, Lima Beans, Leafy Veg, Wholegrains, Rice, Nuts, Potatoes, Banana's, Dairy, Beef, Chicken and Eggs. 

Cayenne Pepper (naturally boosts and supports metabolism) I love adding to food and even a bit in my hot water with lemon and honey with my seamoss in morning. 

Which leads me nicely on to Seamoss also. I recently started making my own with Shunghite and Lime as a Powerful potent thyroid balancing ritual but also Seamoss has 92 of the minerals the body needs to function.  Often minerals are overlooked, but knowledge is power! But be mindful too much iodine isnt good. If you been using regularly for a while and your still struggling with weight loss then stop and just focus on the other minerals and vitamins suggested.

If you are Vegetarian or Vegan it might be that you need to supplement. I recommend the following supplements that have been tried and tested by myself and many clients. Often enough food is overlooked when it comes to the Thyroid and we know in the functional medicine world that everything is connected so I always recommend doing blood tests, gut testing and dealing with the emotional issues that can often create dysfunction.

The purpose of this post is to educate and inform, our lives become better through knowledge and action. It's through years of studying and practice that I am in the health I am today and it's my mission to empower humans to great health and optimal vitality.If you feel you could do with additional expert support on your new health journey it would be an honour to support you.

Email to book a free consultation.

To your health and happiness 

Quantum health coaching for optimal living

10 Reasons why you should breathe through your nose

We as humans have evolved to breathe through our noses but only a small number of us actually utilise this, 30-50% of adults breathe through our mouths, mostly because we don’t really understand the health benefits of nose breathing let me tell you nose breathing is optimal and I am about to tell you why.

We have heard the professionals, and most of the research points out to it-breathing through your nose is the correct and most optimal way for you to breathe. Your nose is a specifically designed organ and a part of our respiratory system. Just because you can take air in and out of your mouth as well does not make your nose redundant!

Did you know that our bodies are designed for nose breathing?

The mechanisms through which we inhale and exhale through nose breathing correctly as well as consistently- has numerous health benefits.

1. It humidifies the air

Your lungs don’t tolerate dry air very well. We have small structures in our nose called turbinates which help to humidify the air you inhale. This actually prepares the air for our lungs. This is why mouth breathing whilst we sleep can cause dry mouth and scratchy throat. Putting a tape over your mouth whilst you sleep is one way to ensure you breathe through your nose.

2. It warms the air

Your nose helps to warm up the air before it gets to our lungs, we know that our lungs don’t really like cold air ( I know this from running outside in winter) if you consciously breathe through nose it will keep you warmer and prevent a cough.

3. It filters the air

We have hairs & sticky mucus that line our noses we protect us from pollutants, dust, allergens, viruses, bacteria etc

4. Increases your oxygen uptake

Nose breathing adds a whopping 50% more resistance than mouth breathing. This resistance is what maintains elasticity in our lungs. This basically means that they inflate and deflate properly. Nitric oxide from your nose relaxes & widens your blood vessels. Increasing oxygen uptake by 10-20%

5. It prevents over breathing

Over breathing happens when we get take in too much air from our mouths. This causes us to lose too much carbon dioxide from our blood. Carbon dioxide helps stimulate breathing, regulates the PH of your blood, and promotes oxygenation of your tissues/organs. Where as resistance from nose breathing helps to prevent this from happening.

6. It redirects airflow

As you open up your nose, you also open up your lungs. This helps to redirect air deep down into your lungs

7. Helps with better brain function

The hypothalamus, also known as the Brain's brain, is responsible for many functions in our bodies, particularly those that we consider automatic: heartbeat, blood pressure, thirst, appetite, and of course, the cycles of sleeping a waking. The hypothalamus is also responsible for generating chemicals that influence memory and emotion. The nasal cycle, which is part of an overall body cycle, is controlled by the hypothalamus.

Sympathetic dominance on one side causes nasal vasoconstriction of the ipsilateral turbinate, while parasympathetic dominance on the other causes nasal vasoconstriction of the contralateral turbinate. Increased airflow through the right nostril is correlated to increased left brain activity and enhanced verbal performance; whereas increased airflow through the left nostril is associated with increased right brain activity and enhanced spatial performance." (Shannahoff-Kalsa, 1993. The ultradian rhythm of alternating cerebral hemispheric activity. International Journal of Neuroscience 70, 285-298) Breathing through the nose also limits air intake and forces one to SLOW down. Proper nose breathing reduces hypertension and stress for most people. Kind of like a speed control (governor) on a car engine.

8. Nose Breathing can prevent snoring and sleep apnea

Our nasal passages have afferent stimuli- the nerves that regulate breathing. When inhaled air passes through the nose, nasal mucosa carries the stimuli to reflex nerves that control breathing. When you breathe through mouth you bypass nasal mucosa and it predisposes you to loud snoring and irregular breathing. Snoring is a precursor to sleep apnea and apnea a precursor to low cellular oxygen, almost any illness including heart attacks and death in one's sleep. Think sleep apnea.

9. Nose breathing heightens some of life’s pleasures

Think of all the beautiful smells we enjoy with our nose. Smell influences our behavior, our memories, and many autonomic nervous system functions which are below the level of conscious awareness.

This is because the receptors in the nose, known as olfactory bulbs, are direct extensions of a part of the brain known as the hypothalamus, Each of our nostrils is innervated by five cranial nerves from a different side of the brain. Each nostril functions independently and synergistic in filtering, warming, moisturizing, dehumidifying, and smelling the air. Maintaining a keen sense of smell is very important for enjoying life and for safety and social acceptance.

10. Nose breathing can improve your appearance

Mouth breathing can produce an anterior open bite, a longer face, and some suggest that because of poor sleep quality produces a baggy appearance under the eyes. Mouth breathing also accelerates water loss increasing possible dehydration.

As you can see so many health benefits to nose breathing, it can be difficult to adjust but once you do, you won’t want to go back to mouth breathing.

A great tip for better sleep is to tape your mouth, I have noticed deeper sleep when I have tried this because it will force you to use your nose.

Are my Chakras blocked?

Did you know, that at every moment of every day even as you read these words there’s an energetic current flowing through you?

An energy so powerful that it influences every aspect of your human experience.

From your desires, your emotions, your strengths and your weaknesses.

This flow of energy circulates through you —starting from your tailbone, and ending at the crown of your head — forming seven distinct “wheels” of swirling energy known as the 7 chakras/ And each chakra governs a key aspect of your life.

Problem is, most people live their entire lives never realizing just how much influence their chakras have on elevating (or diminishing) everything from their abundance, their love lives, their own sense of personal power, their relationships, and even their intuition.

But when your chakras are allowed to flow freely, creating your ideal life becomes as effortless as breathing.

Question right now is…

“Are Your Chakras Open or Are They Blocked?”

But most importantly, do you know how to influence your chakras at will?

Imagine it you had the ability to tap into the power of your chakras at any given moment to elevate a key area of your life instantly. Looking to get that next promotion or raise in your career?

Unblock your 1st chakra.

How about heating up your sex life so you can experience toe-curling orgasms?

Just work on your 2nd chakra.

Need to boost your self-esteem and strengthen your self-worth?

The solution lies in your 3rd chakra.

Maybe you’re preparing to make a speech or a presentation, and want to project unshakable confidence when you speak? Easy.

Just allow your 5th chakra to flow freely.

This is the essence of the ancient science of the chakras. And as a leading chakra expert, I will help you discover proven exercises and techniques to allow you to effortlessly balance the flow of your chakras, overcome even your most stubborn personal barriers, and improve any area of your life you wish at will.

“Which Of Your Seven Chakras Needs The Most Attention Right Now?”

Each of your chakras has its own unique “personality”, each controlling a specific aspect of your life. So if you’re experiencing any form of physical or mental shortcomings, limitations or challenges in your life, there’s a high chance one of your chakras is weak or blocked.

But how do you tell which of your chakras are strong, and which need repairing?

Simple–take a good look at the circumstances in your life. Use the guide below and evaluate yourself:

Crown Chakra-Connection to the divine

Located at the crown of your head, it deals with your connection to the divine within you and all around you. Physically, it supports your central nervous system and deep brain functions. Your Crown Chakra may be weak if you: Feel disconnected to a higher power have feelings of loneliness and insignificance Are stuck in an unfulfilling and unrewarding career and have a strong attachment to possessions and relationships, and define yourself by what you have. You might experience frequent Migraines and tension headaches

Third Eye Chakra -Intuition, sense of purpose and direction in life

Located right in the center of your forehead and deals with intuition, your sense of purpose and direction in life. Physically, it supports your upper frontal sinuses, eyes, ears, and the outer layers of your brain. Your Third Eye Chakra may be weak if you: Feel lost when it comes to having a sense of purpose in life Are indecisive, uncommitted and unconfident of the decisions you make .Have an active imagination, but not in a good way as you spend much of your day in analytical mode Experience headaches and a feeling of tension in your brow area

Throat Chakra-Self-expression

Location right in the center of your throat. It deals with issues of honesty, integrity, truth, expression and communication. Physically, it supports your neck, jaw, teeth, gums, mouthm lower sinus, throat and thyroid gland.

Your Throat Chakra may be weak if you: Are often afraid to speak up and voice your opinions around others Settle with following other people’s opinions Are likely to be the “quiet one” in your professional and social circles Experience sore throats, swollen glands, sinus problems, disorders of the throat, mouth, teeth or gums

Heart Chakra- Love, relationships and self-acceptance

Located along your spine right in the center of your chest next to your physical heart. It deals with issues of love, compassion and belonging. Physically, it supports your heart, lungs, upper torso, shoulders, arms and hands.

Your Heart Chakra may be weak if you: Are guarded and closed and rarely allow yourself to open up to others Sabotage your relationships with distrust and anger

Are unable to let a situation rest because it didn’t go your way. You are clingy and needy in relationships and anxious that your partner doesn’t need you as much as you need them . You experience heart disorders, chest pain, asthma, allergies, circulation problems.

Solar Plexus Chakra -Personal power and ability to channel

Located along your spine it deals with issues of willpower, ambition, and action. Physically, it supports your liver, pancreas, gallbladder, stomach and spleen. Your Solar Plexus Chakra may be weak if you: See yourself as powerless and struggle with self-esteem issues. You have different ways of shaming yourself and feel embarrassed by what people think of you. Feel like a victim in the world, and often feel powerless to circumstances and other people’s desires.Suffer from frequent stomach pains and stomach anxiety

Sacral Chakra- Sexuality and pleasure

This is where we awaken our kundalini energy. Located in our hips, sacrum and genitals, it is where we experience the joys of intimacy, creativity, pleasure, our desires and sexuality.

Your Sacral Chakra may be weak if you: Struggle to see yourself as “sexy:, and sometimes wonder how anyone could desire you.

Find it difficult to open up in relationships

Have a tendency to end up in sexually incompatible relationships and find yourself wondering if you’ll ever find “the one”. Rarely have the time or desire to have sex

Root Chakra- Career, money mindset and sense of belonging.

Located at the very base of your spin, is the most common chakra to be weakened. It deals with physical survival, safety, security, fear and insecurity. Your Root Chakra may be weak if you: Feel a general lack of physical energy and vitality. Are stuck in an unfulfilling and unrewarding career Find that your well-being is highly dependent upon external circumstances Believe that money creates security Suffer from eating disorders, adrenal fatigue, foot and leg pains/injuries, rectal or colon problems, immune disorders or bone disorders

So now I really only have one question for you

Why wait for your life to be great?

The Health Benefits of Infrared Sauna

We know that having a good old sweat is good for us, we know exercise is good for us. To live healthier lives we need a bit of movement. Scientists have discovered that increasing our body temperature creates a stress response ( a healthy one) there are physiological changes that happen at a cellular level. When we raise our body temperature we release a variety of proteins that maintain health.

However, as a large number of people are unable to exert themselves due to age, injuries or chronic diseases (such as osteoarthritis, obesity and spinal cord injuries). They aren’t getting the proteins they need through adequate exercise.

What are Heat Shock Proteins?

Heat shock proteins (HSP) are the proteins produced when your body experiences stressful situations such as exercise. It helps to promote homeostasis ( this is basically being in it’s balanced, optimal functional state) they form new proteins and repair and abnormal malformed proteins. In short, they help perform maintenance checks on other proteins at a cellular level and ensure their survival. It also helps metabolic diseases and cellular stress, helping diseases such as type 2 Diabetes, Obesity, atherosclerosis. I have personally helped people with Diabetes and Parkinsons. Infra Red Sauna is an effective method used to induce heat stressors, when we are exposed to the Sauna’s heat, it triggers the release of HSP’s which produce the same cardiovascular hormonal and extra cellular protein responses as ones released during exercise.

Benefits of Heat Shock Proteins

In the following study, participants sat in a heat stress chamber in high heat (73°C, 163.4°F) and no heat (26°C, 78.8°F) for 30 minutes.

Blood samples were extracted before and after the exposure and results concluded that it increased the heart rate by 60% and actively stimulates the nervous system and blood pressure to boost the heart’s cardiac output. In addition to improved circulation, increased HSP levels is also proven to mitigate clinical conditions such as cardiovascular diseases. Those suffering from congestive heart failure and cardiac arrhythmia were measured to have reduced levels of hydroperoxide, BNP levels and an increase in nitric oxide metabolites.

It has also shown to significantly reduce the risk of acquiring these diseases by 66% in middle-aged people. Similarly, it also reduces the risk of developing dementia or Alzheimer’s, improved their overall mortality rate and many more. Exposure to the heat stress chamber also increased levels of chaperone HSP72 by up to 50% and other factors that positively influence endocrine functions. HSP72 is one of the various heat shock proteins produced which prevents cells in the body from undergoing apoptosis, or cellular death.

Heat stress increases levels of norepinephrine, which regulates blood pressure by narrowing the blood vessels and increasing the heart’s blood output. It is also released to enhance the contractions of skeletal muscles and the heart. These proteins are proven to be therapeutic towards rheumatological diseases, muscular dystrophy and other conditions that weaken skeletal muscles that come with age or injury.

Aspiring athletes would be delighted to know that having a sauna bath after they exercise would increase their plasma volume for up to 4 days and concentrations of hemoglobin which allows for greater transmission of oxygen into the body.

Another heat shock proteins study that exposes rats to 41°C (105.8°F) of hyperthermic treatments for 30 minutes shows that HSPs are correlated to 30% more muscle regrowth than their control group. Once a person has been acclimated to high temperatures, they have been known to have higher production of heat shock proteins concentrations when followed by exercise.

Finally, the study also found that those who were suffering from conditions that range from rheumatological diseases, chronic pain to depression experienced significantly less adverse symptoms. Participants who suffered from chronic headaches were reduced by 44% within 6 weeks and those with chronic pain are more likely to return to work within 2 years.

Even those suffering from clinical depression had reported improved appetites, relaxation and somatic symptoms. Individuals suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, chronic fatigue syndrome, and fibromyalgia reported decreased pain and stiffness and improved quality of life, all due to the effects of regular sauna bathing.

Infrared Saunas and the Release of Heat Shock Proteins

Saunas are the best way to enhance the production of HSPs in your body. It has been used as a popular form of thermotherapy throughout history for a variety of purposes which extend their physiological benefits such as in hygiene, social and spiritual connection.

Widely known traditional Finnish saunas provide exposure to temperatures of up to 80-100°C (176-212°F) and increased humidity for 5 to 20 minutes. It uses heated stones and water to create this hot and humid atmosphere. In comparison, infrared saunas have particularly risen in popularity as they utilize infrared wavelengths which penetrates the skin with the advantage of lower temperatures of 45-60°C (113-140°F).

Therefore, it heats up faster in 30 minutes and consumes less energy. Because of this, it is currently the cheaper alternative to traditional saunas and much more comfortable to sit in for a longer duration. One of the biggest differences is that infrared saunas do not generate any humidity, which results in longer and drier heating sessions (while producing a better sweat).

It is much easier to stay in an infrared sauna longer. Bathing in infrared saunas releases the toxins inside your body by excreting sweat and inducing other hormonal stress responses, also known as detoxification. After the session, they usually incorporate cooling periods in which people can take cold plunges and rehydrate to continue their next heating session.

If the body is repeatedly exposed to the sauna’s heating sessions, it is considered as hyperthermic conditioning. Combining exercise with saunas would result in a synergized homeotic response that has been commonly standardized in massage clinic, spa and salon regimens.

Due to the busy lifestyles that we all have, we may not have the time to gain the boost of heat shock proteins that we need from exercising.

By spending time in saunas, you would not only allow your body to synthesize more heat shock proteins, but can also spend half an hour each session as a way to wind down and relax with your loved ones (or meditating alone!).

If you are in a relationship sharing activities in intimate settings can strengthen and deepen the relationship. Many people in lasting relationships reported a higher quality of life and happiness than those who are single because of the shared experiences. Marital and relationship counselors recommend the establishment of shared activities as a means of increasing affinity and connection. 

Far infrared saunas are the perfect venue for shared activity for couples, for the emotional sense of well-being. It would be an honour to welcome you into my space for your Infrared Experience. Since purchasing the Infrared Sauna it has made such a difference to my life, I can’t wait to share this joy with my clients. Any further info please reach out and connect with me.

You can find the Sauna and reviews on Treatwell who I have partnered with to offer my holistic services.

My gut healing journey

The past couple of months I have been on a “gut healing protocol” following my microbiome testing with a company called Viome I was rather impressed with the accuracy of the results, generally its all good but unfortunately the intestinal barrier needs improving. In functional medicine they call it “leaky gut” and in the medical science world it’s still rather new territory. We are learning more and more about the microbiome and why gut health is so important.

Hippocrates said “ All disease starts in the gut” he was definitely right. I wanted to share with you, in these unprecedented times the importance of gut health on our immune system. 70-80% of your immune system is in your gut. So what we eat is literally taking us closer or further away from optimal health. I say optimal because we are falling a little bit short of the possibility for lives.

Our cognitive health lies in the gut due to the gut/brain axis. Of course if you been following me for a while you will know what we eat is a piece of the puzzle in terms of overall health. We can improve our lives substantially through awareness, managing our emotional state, dealing with our trauma, balancing our chakras, and moving our bodies. I cover this and much more in my work with clients and know for sure with my own healing journey what’s possible when we take action. It’s easy to feel powerless in these times, but my hope is with this knowledge that you can feel empowered to take action over your health with these food recommendations that have been scientifically proven to boost immunity, heal the gut and increase longevity.

Let food by thy medicine.

Before my gut healing journey, I knew nothing about butyrate but now I can’t stop talking about it, and I am making conscious decisions everyday to increase it. Butyrate is a short chain fatty acid produced by the bacteria in our colon. It is also the starting point of fatty acid production in the body. It supports the formation of friendly bacteria that help promote digestive health. Butyrate helps cleanse the liver, the gallbladder and the billiary tree.

It also help withs with the removal of renegade fats that accumulate as we get older. Research shows that butyrate reduces inflammation helps with oxidative damage, increases mobility, balances blood sugar and nourishes the gut lining.

The sources that were recommended to me were ghee, which contains butyrate and spirulina, olive oil, avocados because they both contain essential fatty acids which are critical for a stable microbiome, they increase microbial diversity and beneficial butyrate producing bacteria.

Another key component to healthy microbes is inulin. Inulin is a Prebiotic fiber which nourishes the microbes, a bit like a fertiliser for the gut. It has been reported that inulin increases microbial diversity, prevents constipation, helps manage weight and regulates blood sugar and aids with gastrointestinal distress.

Foods that contain inulin are artichokes, leeks and my favourite right now is Chicory root. It’s popular for its coffee-like flavor. I actually had to cut out coffee to help heal my gut and it’s been tough! Approximately 47% of chicory root fiber comes from the prebiotic fiber inulin.

The inulin in chicory root nourishes the gut bacteria, improves digestion and helps relieve constipation It can also help increase bile production, which improves fat digestion. Additionally, chicory root is high in antioxidant compounds that protect the liver from oxidative damage. I definitely have seen a difference in my waistline and feel way more energised,even without the coffee!

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that plays a key role in immune system function, collagen production, and healthy aging. So no surprise it’s beneficial for our gut health too. It promotes nutrient utilisation and can protect against cardiovascular disease. It has been reported that Vitamin C affects the function of bifidobacterium and Clostridium species. I was recommended to eat Brussel Sprouts, which I do enjoy but hard to find this time of year, other sources of Vitamin C that I am enjoying are citrus fruits, strawberries, broccoli, kiwi, kale, yellow peppers, parsley and thyme.

If you been following me on Instagram you will know from my stories I have been sharing about the benefits of bone broth. I will go into more detail about bone broth in another blogpost but the main reason why it’s so good for the microbiome is amino acids.

Amino Acids are protein building blocks and important for energy regulation your gut bacteria ferment dietary amino and produce molecules which modulate your immune system, cell function and metabolism and nourish your gut lining.

Cabbage is a great source of glutamine which is also an amino acid. Glutamine is used by specific bacteria in your gut, such as bacteroidetes & firmicutes species. It’s also a precursor to Butyrate. I enjoy sweetheart cabbage and regularly eat it regularly. Looking forward to homemade summer coleslaw and I am a huge fan of purple cabbage.

Chard was recommended as a superfood because it contains kaempforal. Kaempforal is a flavanoid released following microbial metabolism. It balances the microbiome,encourages growth beneficial to the lactobacillus & bifidobacteria species & inhibits growth or harmful or pathogenic bacteria. Studies indicate that Kaempforal decreases inflammation & benefits many biological systems including the gastrointestinal hormonal, neurological occular & immune systems. I have been taking Quercetin supplements for some time and knew of the benefits for the immune system.

Raspberries were recommended as a superfood for my microbiome because they contain Quercetin.
It influences bacterial function & leads to the activation of specific antioxidant biological pathways that decrease inflammation & contribute to microbial detoxification. It has been reported that Quercetin promotes hormone production & cardiovascular wellness. In fact, low plasma levels of Quercetin have been associated with increased risk of heart disease. I have been recommended a variety of foods based on their polyphenol content.

Polyphenols balance your microbiome It balances the microbiome,encourages growth beneficial to the lactobacillus & bifidobacteria species & inhibits growth or harmful or pathogenic bacteria. Studies indicate that Polyphenols decrease inflammation & benefit many biological systems including the gastrointestinal hormonal, neurological occular & immune systems. Foods high in polyphenols which I was recommended are Sage, Oregano, Endives.

Sunflower Seeds were another superfood for the microbiome, they contain Vitamin E which is a fat soluble vitamin.Vitamin E promotes gut barrier strength, prevents dysbiosis, alter immune response and decreases inflammation. Research shows that your microbiota transforms Vitamin E into different isomers, each with it’s own health benefits. Some of these benefits include neurol protection, enhanced athletic performance & better cardiovascular fitness.

I was told to increase my Spinach, which is fine because I really enjoy spinach. I tend to eat it everyday with a meal. Spinach contains phytonutrients which are beneficial plant nutrients. Phytonutrients are large compounds that are metabolised. Studies indicate that phytonutrients are also anti inflammatory antioxidant and neuroprotective.

Turkey is a superfood for my microbiome because it contains Tryptophan. I also take a supplement of Tryptophan which is an amino acid. Your microbes are capable of producing some tryptophan but they also use it to make a large number compounds including neurotransmitters like seratonin and indole-3-propionate which is anti inflammatory & promotes brain health. Adding Tryptophan rich foods make sure you are getting enough if it everyday.

Lentils are good for the microbiome because they contain magnesium. It can increase the abundance of bifidobacterium species. These microbes help digest fiber which produces butyrate. Studies indicate that magnesium decreases inflammation protect your heart and is essential co factor many different enzymes.

Ginger is a superfood for my microbiome as it contains Gingerol, which is a polyphenol. Ginger like other polyphenols is metabolised by the microbiome, once converted it reduces inflammation and improves digestion. There are many foods that have been recommended to me and some to minimise and avoid. By no means am I recommending you follow what I eat, there are obvious health benefits to the food I eat and I have lost weight, increased my metabolic fitness and generally feel good. I have now completed my 90 day program and will be retesting next week and finding out if I have increased my butyrate production and improved the quality of the lining of my gut.

UPDATE 15th July 2020

On 3rd June I retested and learnt I had improved the lining of my gut. This was good news, all the hardwork and effort paid off. I do have a little issue with methane production, I have slight changes to what I can eat, I can add in certain foods again such as Coffee and Yogurt. I have to remove some of nightshades that can trigger this response such as tomatos, potatoes, peppers. My supplements will stay the same but I am now taking extra probiotics to help build up diversity in the gut. I am will most likely retest in November/December.

Its important to remember when you are commited to healing it can go up and down. Significant changes happen in 6-12 months of continuous work and I see this often in my work also.

Although there’s still a few issues I am making progress in the right direction. That’s what it’s all about. No doubt I will updating this blogpost again by the end of the year.

All the love

*All links are affiliated

5 Signs your Sacral Chakra is blocked

The Sacral Chakra is your second chakra and it’s objective is Sexuality, the nature of your relationships, freedom from guilt, pleasure and nurturance, sensation and creativity.

In order for the Sacral Chakra to shift collectively we must expand beyond our sexual energy to an expansive creative energy.

These are the key areas where we get blocked in this Chakra

1 Getting lost in your fantasies

This is hugely common and this is an imbalance because we fantasise about much maybe we aren’t in our NOW enough enjoying what is going on around us. Keep balanced by enjoying as many moments as possible and try being spontaneous too! 

It’s quite possible that you may lose yourself in sexual fantasies instead of connecting physically with your actual partner. You may also be obsessed with connecting sexually or romantically with every attractive person that you cross paths with.

2  Excessive indulgence and addictive behaviour. 

Now if every desire is about indulgence we can easily cause an imbalance, we can satisfy this Chakra with creating desires that don’t cause us to not to forget to be a spectator and rather observe the world and how we can also contribute. This chakra is largely connected with how we express ourselves, we can indulge but we wary of getting carried away in funland. Whether it’s food, games, shopping, or television, it affects the chakra negatively when you become addicted to it.

3 Lack of gratification and insatiable desires

You gotta love yourself, be grateful for being here, accept yourself and appreciate the journey. Delight yourself in the simple pleasures without getting too attached is essential in promoting a balanced sacral chakra. Where you are most satisfied you feel it in your mind, but also you will feel the sensation in your body, just pay attention. Desires are important but any over indulgence will cause an imbalance. Healing occurs when we can safely regulate consistently.

4.Codependent behaviour 

Your relationships require healing, they need harmony and balance. We can easily carry strong charges here, the dynamics of family life can cause disruption. When we approach them as self as others, we are less likely to be so offended. We run rackets with our families more than other beings but it’s important we do work on bringing harmony into the home so we can create harmony in the world.

To normalize and heal this chakra, you need to develop a discrimination when it comes to energy drains caused by people and their bad habits, including family but we can do this in loving way. We don’t always have to be aggressive but it’s not easy breaking these habits 

5.Negative and damaging emotions

If you have feelings of rage, anger, jealousy or envy then this is a clear sign we are imbalanced. If you tend to overactive to people especially if someone has detrimental feelings of rage, anger, jealousy, and envy are characteristics of an imbalanced sacral chakra. You overreact when someone poses a challenge to you or has a different opinion. You feel rage and frustration very easily.

There are many ways we can balance this Chakra. Self awareness and self regulation is key. Don’t let your emotions run wild, but rather run through you. This Chakra is about being a creator, think fun but have the ability to reel yourself in if you find yourself ungrounded. 

Journalling your thoughts and feelings may help you to process them. 

I work one to one to facilitate rapid transformation through balancing the Chakra’s.

Reach out to book a free consultation

Remember this is your one life to create whatever you desire, you absolutely can have it all

All the love

Top Anti Viral Herbs and their uses

There are many types of viruses that exist in the world, with sub-strains and new strains appearing constantly. From the common cold and influenza (seasonal flu) to more serious chronic illnesses. We know antibiotics don’t work on viral infections and in the case of HIV and now Coronavirus there isn’t a medicine that has been able to cure. Although anti viral drugs work to reduce replications and can help boost your immune system.

Mother Nature has always provided us with what we need, and throughout the ages has never let us down. These anti viral herbs aren’t common knowledge and I feel like it’s my duty to educate and empower people into a possibility, if you want to stay health all year round you might want to consider adding these herbs to your army of supplements.

What Are Antiviral Herbs?

Antiviral herbs are plants that contain properties to help ward off and fight virus-based infections. Viruses are pathogens, that want to rapidly produce and can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, even death if not treated or we have a weakened immune system, it’s going to be likely that if we are exposed. Viruses are pathogens that can only survive inside the cells of another living organism. They look for hosts to proliferate in, which causes a wide range of unpleasant symptoms in humans.

Antiviral herbs have the ability to fight infections as well as prevent them, by strengthening the immune system. Many of the active properties of antiviral herbs are not water-soluble, and so it is advised you seek out a tinctured extract or use as tea if using in raw plant form.

Antiviral Herbs And

the Immune System 

Many antiviral herbs also have a potent ability to support your immune system, meaning that your body has more strength to battle against any type of invader. This is important because viruses can infect a host in so many different ways that your best defense is indeed a resilient body. Some infections enter through the blood (like HIV), others are transmitted by couching or sneezing (the flu or cold), while others are caught through oral-fecal transmission due to poor sanitation (like gastroenteritis).

Although taking preventative measures to limit your exposure to these inflammatory viruses, ultimately a strong immune system will always be your best defense mechanism.

Nature has provided us with a wide range of natural ways to fight viral infections. This list is not enxaustive but many of the most potent and accessible antiviral herbs. Some of these ingredients can be consumed raw, others are best used boiled into a tea, and others are best consumed in tinctured form. Ultimately tinctured herbs will provide you with a more bioavailable ingredient.

Garlic

Garlic is one of the most classic antiviral herbs and takes first place on the list because most people already have it sitting in their pantry. Garlic can be used internally or topically but should be kept raw to maintain its medicinal value. 

What is Garlic Used For?

Kills bacterial, viral, and parasitic infection 

• Fights ear infections

• Fights eye infections

• Reduces and potentially reverses hair loss

• Fight cancer

• Support cardiovascular health

You can essentially consume as much garlic as you can handle. To get the most out of it medicinally, crush the garlic first, to release it’s healing properties (called allicin).

You can do this using the back of a knife, or mince it finely before taking it. Consuming it raw ensures the garlic keeps its strong medicinal value. You can also make potent garlic oil by crushing then chopping a handful of garlic cloves, and letting them sit in olive oil overnight. This oil can be used for dressings, drizzles on soups or any savory dish. If you cannot bear the taste, garlic can also be purchased encapsulated.

For viral skin infections, you can create a paste from the raw garlic and apply it directly to the skin, and wrap it in gauze. If the infection doesn’t heal within two weeks, seek medical advice.

Oregano

Oregano is a delicious cooking herb that is also a potent healer. For medicinal purposes, wild oregano should be used, as an essential oil extract. This distilled oil is generally found in a tincture made with a base of olive oil. Over 1,000 pounds of wild oregano is used to make one pound of essential oil. Wild oregano oil has been shown to be more successful at treating bacterial infection than antibiotics, but these results also apply to viruses and parasitic infections. This is thanks fo the powerful compounds of thymol and carvacrol. Unlike pharmaceutical medications, oregano oil has no side effects. Wild oregano oil is one of the most well studied antiviral herbs available today.

What is Oregano Used For?

• Kills parasitic, viral, and bacterial infections

• Reduces inflammation

• Fights cancerous cells and tumors

• Oil of wild oregano is very potent.

You can take 1-4 drops taken twice daily in water, or it can be applied topically. Generally, this oil is already diluted in olive oil, but if you’re using it in pure essential oil form, ensure to dilute it before applying it topically or taking it internally.

Ginger

Ginger is one of the holy ingredients of Ayurvedic medicine. This ancient Indian wisdom loves ginger particularly due to it’s warming properties in the body. This fire helps cleanse the lymphatic system, stimulates digestion, boosts the immune system, and has a positive influence on a wide range of viral, bacterial, and fungal infections.

What is Ginger Used For?

• Warms the system

• Boosts digestion

• Stimulates the immune system

• Reduces pain

• Balances blood sugar levels

• Relieves nausea

• Reduces inflammation 

Ginger can be used in so many different ways, both raw and cooked, for medicinal benefits. You can simmer ginger in hot water to drink as a tea, nibble on a small piece of raw ginger to stimulate digestion before a meal or to calm nausea. Ginger can also be consumed as a dried powder, or simply used in cooking. To harness the medicinal benefits of ginger for many of its uses, have a little (either raw or as a tea) before a meal. 

Elderberry

Elderberry is the extract that comes from the dark purple berries of the elder tree. This popular cold and flu remedy is often rendered into a sweet-tasting syrup. Its lesser-known benefits include pain relief from a wide range of ailments.

What is Elderberry Used For?

• Fights viral and bacterial infections

• Supports the immune system

• Fights herpes, influenza, the common cold

• Relieves sinus pain, back and leg pain, nerve pain, and chronic fatigue syndrome

• Relieves constipation

• Heals gum inflammation 

Elderberry is often found as a syrup and used for cold and flu symptoms. It is especially good for children since its naturally sweet flavor is much more pleasant than many other antiviral herbs. Used topically, elderberry can be rubbed on the gyms to reduce inflammation. For cold and flu, elderberry can be taken four times daily (15ml) for 3-5 days. For constipation, it can be taken in 15mls diluted in 150ml of boiling water, three times a day for five days.

Olive Leaf

Olive leaf extract is a polyphenol rich supplement that is well known for its ability to lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Although many of the studies have been conducted on animals, pre-clinical human studies are showing lots of promise as well. Olive leaf is revered in Mediterranean diets but used medicinally olive leaf should be consumed as an extract.

This essential oil is often found in a syrup form, often targeted at relief from the common cold, sore throats, or the flu virus.

What is Olive Leaf Used For?

Fights viral, bacterial, and parasitic infections

• Boost the immune system

• Destroys a wide range of pathogenic organisms

• Stops the spread of pre-existing pathogenic organisms

• Treats the common cold, candida, chronic fatigue, tuberculosis, malaria, pneumonia, HIV-1, gonorrhea, shingles, dental, ear, and urinary tract infections

• Lower cholesterol and blood pressure Olive leaf is a gentle herb that can be used without harming the good bacteria in the body. The dosage depends on what goal is trying to be achieved. A standard dose hovers between 500 and 750 mg per day. It can be found in liquid or capsule form.

Astragalus Root

Astragalus root is revered in Traditional Chinese Medicine for its antiviral properties. It has been used for centuries to fight infection and boost the immune system. As an adaptogen, astragalus helps reinstate balance in the body.

Topically, astragalus is known to help speed up the recovery of wounds.

• What is Astragalus Root used for?

• Antiviral, antifungal, and antibacterial properties

• Boosts the immune system

• Anti-inflammatory properties

• Fights the common cold, influenza, and herpes simplex virus

• Adaptogenic qualities

• Lowers cortisol

Astragalus root is best used as an extract, either in tinctured or dual-extracted powder form. A properly extracted powder can then be used to make tea or used topically by making a paste and covering the wound with gauze. Tinctures can be taken 1-4 drops twice a day in a glass of water. Astragalus root can be taken preventatively during cold and flu season to boost the immune system.

Goldenseal

Although it can be slightly more expensive, goldenseal is a top contender for antiviral herbs. This herb contains an active ingredient called berberine that is a powerful antibacterial, viral, and parasitic agent.

What is Goldenseal Used For?

• Antiviral, antibacterial, and antiparasitic properties

• Heals digestive disorders like gastritis, colitis, diarrhea, constipation, peptic ulcers, hemorrhoids, and gas

• Boosts the immune system

• Fights the common cold and other upper respiratory tract infections.

Goldenseal can be taken in capsule or tincture form but should be used mindfully.

The berberine found in goldenseal kills bad bacteria but can also kill the good bacteria, so it should not be used for more than a week or two at a time.

Used cyclically, goldenseal can offer powerful antiviral results. The dosage will vary wildly based on age, condition, health status, and other factors; follow the guidance of a funcitonal medicine practitioner. Avoid completely if pregnant.

Cat’s Claw

Despite its name, cat’s claw does not actually come from cats. This powerful antiviral has been used by South Americans for centuries to treat a wide range of health problems. Today it can be found in tincture or raw form. In its natural state, cat’s claw resembled fine wood chips and has a surprisingly pleasant taste. 

What is Cat’ Claw Used For?

• Treat viral, parasitic, and bacterial infections

• Is an antifungal and anti-inflammatory

• Heals the digestive tract and leaky gut Reduces fever

• Treats stomach ulcers, arthritis, herpes, IBS, colitis, dysentery

This antiviral herb is best consumed as a tea. You can boil a teaspoon of cat’s claw in 16 oz of water for about 5-10 minutes, let it cool, and then drink like you would any tea. Applied topically, opt for a cat’s claw tincture, that you can then use directly on the skin (or combined with a cream or oil).

Calendula

Calendula comes from a flowering plant also known as marigold that has been used medicinally for hundreds of years. The high flavonoid content of calendula provides the body with antioxidants that fight free radicals in the body. You will often see calendula listed in natural topical creams and ointments due to its powerful skin and wound healing properties. 

What is Calendula Used For?

• Fight viral and bacterial infection

• Reduces inflammation

• Heals infections, cuts, wounds, and burns

• Reduces damage caused by free radicals.

There are various uses for calendula, all of which are best executed by following the directions on the product itself. Calendula can be used to treat ear infections, and dosage will depend on the strength of the products. Used topically, calendula can be applied (properly diluted) multiple times per day. This gentle herb does not boast any known side effects. 

Echinacea

Echinacea is a well-known all-star for cold and flu season, and for a good reason. This flower has a wide range of benefits that fight off the bad whilst helping support the good. This immune-boosting herb is often found as a tincture or in syrup form and can be taken preventatively or reactively for anything from signs of viral infection, to pain relief, and used topically to soothe the skin.

What is Echinacea Used For?

• Fights viral and bacterial infections

• Boots the immune system

• Prevents bacteria and viruses from invading healthy cells

• Relieves pain

• Reduces inflammation

• Soothes the skin

• Treats upper respiratory tract infection

• Controls blood sugar

• Helps manage anxiety

Echinacea can be used to make tea, as a tinctured extract, or used topically to heal skin irritation or wounds. Liquid tincture extracts can be taken up to 10ml per day, spread out in two to three doses. 

St. John’s Wort

St. John’s Wort is often known for its powerful effects to combat depression. Unlike many pharmaceutical anti-depressants, St. John’s Wort has no negative side effects, but it should be taken in conjuncture with the support and guidance of a functional medicine practitioner. 

What is St. John’s Wort Used For?

• Antiviral and bacterial

• Boosts the immune system

• Relieves depression

How to Use this Antiviral Herb

St. John’s Wort can be a powerful natural anti-depressant when used properly and in conjuncture with a healthy lifestyle. It can be taken as a liquid tincture or in capsules. A standard dose is approximately 300mg taken three times per day. Avoid using St. John’s Wort if you are currently taking an MAO or protease inhibitor. 

LIcorice Root

Licorice root has been used in Chinese medicine for hundreds of years for its antiviral properties. The triterpenoids in licorice root give it this medicinal quality. Since the root in raw form isn’t very bioavailable, it is best to consume licorice root as a tincture (generally extracted in alcohol). 

What is Licorice Root Used For?

• Potential benefits in treating influenza, HIV, and hepatitis C

• Supports the female reproductive cycle

• Boosts the immune system

• Relieves sore throat and cough

• Reduces adrenal fatigue

• Relieves pain

• Heals leaky gut

• Reduces damage caused by free radical

Depending on the reason for using licorice root, the dosage will vary. Follow the instructions on the bottle, and opt to use licorice root at the first sign of a throat infection.

Using licorice root to support reproductive health should be done in conjuncture with a protocol tailored for you by a functional medicine practitioner. 

Sage

Sage contains compounds that inhibit the growth of the drug-resistant bacteria. Studies indicate the ursolic acid in sage can be stronger than ampicillin. Sage is often added to soups, stuffings, tomato sauce, pork, chicken, pasta and other foods. I like to finely chop and drink as tea or add it when making bone broth.

Ginseng

Ginseng is a staple of traditional Chinese medicine, having been used for centuries to treat viruses. Animal studies indicate Korean red ginseng stimulated the production of natural killer (NK) cells in animals with herpes simplex virus (HSV). Researchers noted that Korean red ginseng extract “rendered recipients more resistant against HSV, including decreased clinical severity, increased survival rate, and accelerated viral clearance. Gingseng can be eaten raw or steamed for teas or taken in supplement form

Peppermint

Peppermint contains menthol and rosmarinic acid, two ingredients that have shown strong anti-viral, antimicrobial, anti-oxidant and anti-tumor properties. Studies testing the effectiveness of peppermint on herpes simplex virus type 1 and herpes simplex virus type 2 found peppermint oil “exhibited high levels of virucidal activity” against both type 1 and type 2 herpes viruses. Researchers concluded using peppermint oil topically might be a viable option for recurrent herpes infections.

Basil

Basil has been used to treat viruses for centuries. Preliminary studies on sweet basil show signs of antibacterial activity on a wide variety of viruses, including herpes, hepatitis B, RNA, and enterovirus. The ursolic acid and apigenin in the basil appeared to have the greatest impact on the viruses. Fresh basil is often sprinkled over salads or added to sauces, pesto, or vinegar

ROSEMARY

Rosemary is high in oleanolic acid (OA), which has exhibited antiviral activity. Known as a “free” acid, oleanolic acid has been studied extensively on the following viruses: Influenza. OA has shown to be an effective “entry inhibitor of influenza viruses.” It has also shown to prevent the binding of the virus protein to healthy host cells in Hepatitis C (HCV). In preliminary studies on hepatitis C, OA decreased the duplication of HCV genotypes, making them potential treatments for the virus

The demand for antiviral herpes drugs has increased over the years. This is partly due to the potentially toxic effects of the long-term use of traditional medications. Research is ongoing, but OA has shown “moderate antivirus activity. Rosemary is often added as seasoning to dishes such as soups, salads, stews, and casseroles. It can also be added to pork, steak, and fish.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm (also known as balm mint) is a lemon-scented herb that is often consumed in teas. Many use this herb to treat anxiety and insomnia, but it also has antiviral qualities as well. In several studies, lemon balm extract reduced the potency of HIV virions. Virions are the complete, infective form of host cells with a core of DNA or RNA.

Summary

Viral infections can be caught in various different ways. Although proper hygiene and mindful living can reduce exposures to such viruses, it is essentially impossible to avoid them altogether. The best defense is a strong immune system, which can be supported by the use of antiviral herbs. Antiviral herbs will boost the immune system as well as help fight any signs of infection. Harnessing the power of these herbs enables the body to be resilient without the host of side effects caused by mainstream medical interventions. Since the properties of these herbs generally aren’t water-soluble, opt for tinctures to get the most benefits for your health.

As always I encourage you all to work on cleansing your aura, work on all four bodies to obtain optimal health for living your best life.

Wishing you great health during these challenging times

All the love

The Health Benefits of Turmeric

Turmeric has been used in India for thousands of years as a spice and medicinal herb, it is the spice that gives curry its yellow color. Well the Indians have been telling us that it has medicinal properties and now recently science has started to confirm that. It has to do with these compounds which are called curcuminoids, the most important of which is curcumin.

Curcumin is the main active ingredient in turmeric. It has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a very strong antioxidant. However, Most of the studies on this herb are using turmeric extracts that contain mostly curcumin itself, with dosages usually exceeding 1 gram per day. I mean I love Turmeric and would easily probably consume that in Turmeric Lattes. But It would be very difficult to reach these levels just using the turmeric spice in your foods. Therefore, if you want to experience the full effects, you need to take a supplement that contains significant amounts of curcumin. Unfortunately, curcumin is poorly absorbed into the bloodstream. It helps to consume black pepper with it, which contains piperine, a natural substance that enhances the absorption of curcumin by 2,000% . The best curcumin supplements contain piperine, substantially increasing their effectiveness.Curcumin is also fat soluble, so it may be a good idea to take it with a fatty meal.

Curcumin Is a Natural Anti-Inflammatory Compound

Inflammation is incredibly important

It helps your body fight foreign invaders and also has a role in repairing damage. Without inflammation, pathogens like bacteria could easily take over your body and kill you. Inflammation is beneficial, short term. But can become a major problem when it becomes chronic and inappropriately attacks your body's own tissues. It is now believed that chronic, low-level inflammation plays a major role in almost every chronic, Western disease. This includes heart disease, cancer, metabolic syndrome, Alzheimer's and various degenerative conditions That means if we can add more anti-inflammatory foods to our diet then potentially we have a chance of preventing and even treating these diseases. Curcumin is strongly anti-inflammatory. In fact, it’s so powerful that it matches the effectiveness of some anti-inflammatory drugs, without the side effects NF-kB is a molecule that travels into the nuclei of your cells and turns on genes related to inflammation. Curcumin blocks NF-kB. NF-kB is believed to play a major role in many chronic diseases

Turmeric Dramatically Increases the Antioxidant Capacity of the Body

The main reason antioxidants are so beneficial is that they protect your body from free radicals. Oxidative damage is believed to be one of the mechanisms behind aging and many diseases. It involves free radicals, highly reactive molecules with unpaired electrons. Free radicals tend to react with important organic substances, such as fatty acids, proteins or DNA. Curcumin is a potent antioxidant that can neutralize free radicals due to its chemical structure In addition, curcumin boosts the activity of your body's own antioxidant enzymes. In that way, curcumin delivers a one-two punch against free radicals. It blocks them directly, then stimulates your body's own antioxidant defenses.

Curcumin Boosts Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (aka BDNF) Linked to Improved Brain Function and a Lower Risk of Brain Diseases

One of the main drivers of this process is brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which is a type of growth hormone that functions in your brain. It helps to increase and multiply Neurons that are forming new connections. Many common brain disorders have been linked to decreased levels of this hormone, including depression and Alzheimer's disease.

Interestingly, curcumin can increase brain levels of BDNF By doing this, it may be effective in delaying or even reversing many brain diseases and age-related decreases in brain function. It may also improve memory and make you smarter, which seems logical given its effects on BDNF levels. We still need more human studies to confirm this.

Curcumin Should Lower Your Risk of Heart Disease

Heart disease is the number 1 cause of death in the world

Researchers have studied Heart Disease for many decades and learned a lot about why it happens. It is incredibly complicated and various things contribute, although when it comes to mind/body it’s a Heart Chakra blockage. Curcumin may help reverse many steps in the heart disease process

Perhaps the main benefit of curcumin when it comes to heart disease is improving the function of the endothelium, which is the lining of your blood vessels. It’s well known that endothelial dysfunction is a major driver of heart disease and involves an inability of your endothelium to regulate blood pressure, blood clotting and various other factors In addition, curcumin reduces inflammation and oxidation (as discussed above), which play a role in heart disease as well.

Turmeric Can Help Prevent (And Perhaps Even Treat) Cancer

Cancer is a terrible disease, characterized by uncontrolled cell growth.Curcumin has shown to affect many types of cancer. It has been found to affect growth, development and molecular structure. Through studies it has shown to contribute to death of cancerous cells and r reduce angiogenesis (growth of new blood vessels in tumors) and metastasis (spread of cancer)

Curcumin May Be Useful in Preventing and Treating Alzheimer's Disease

Alzheimer's disease is the most common neurodegenerative disease in the world and a leading cause of dementia. The good news on the horizon because curcumin has been shown to cross the blood-brain barrier It’s known that inflammation and oxidative damage play a role in Alzheimer's disease, and curcumin has beneficial effects on both In addition, a key feature of Alzheimer's disease is a buildup of protein tangles called amyloid plaques. Studies show that curcumin can help clear these plaques

Arthritis Patients Respond Very Well to Curcumin Supplements

Arthritis is a common problem in Western countries.There are several different types, most of which involve inflammation in the joints. Given that curcumin is a potent anti-inflammatory compound, it makes sense that it may help with arthritis.

Studies Show That Curcumin Has Incredible Benefits Against Depression

Curcumin has shown some promise in treating depression. In a controlled trial, 60 people with depression were randomized into three groups One group took Prozac, another group one gram of curcumin and the third group both Prozac and curcumin. After 6 weeks, curcumin had led to improvements that were similar to Prozac. The group that took both Prozac and curcumin fared best. According to this small study, curcumin is as effective as an antidepressant.

Depression is also linked to reduced levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and a shrinking hippocampus, a brain area with a role in learning and memory. Curcumin boosts BDNF levels, potentially reversing some of these changes There is also some evidence that curcumin can boost the brain neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine.

DELICIOUS AND NUTRITIOUS

A great way to start the day… I been drinking these instead of Coffee and feel very alert

Curcumin May Help Delay Aging and Fight Age-Related Chronic Diseases

If Curcumin can really help prevent heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer's, it would have obvious benefits for longevity. For this reason, curcumin has become very popular as an anti-aging supplement. But given that oxidation and inflammation are believed to play a role in aging, curcumin may have effects that go way beyond just preventing disease

The Bottom Line Turmeric and especially its most active compound curcumin have many scientifically-proven health benefits, such as the potential to prevent heart disease, Alzheimer’s and cancer. It’s a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant and may also help improve symptoms of depression and arthritis.

It’s recommended to find a product with BioPerine (the trademarked name for piperine), which is the substance that enhances curcumin absorption

I use this supplement

I have been getting great results, noticeably in my cognitive ability and even with my workouts. I don’t seem to be so sore. More studies need to be done with Curcumin but it’s so promising and a very inexpensive way of improving your health.

To your health, wealth and happiness

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Turmeric Latte (Golden Milk)

So since having my microbiome testing with Viome. I have had to ditch the coffee and I would be sad but these Turmeric Lattes aka “ Golden Milk “ are comforting and in Ayurveda has been used for thousands of years for medicinal purposes. If you’re looking for a fat burner that also increases happiness then look no further. First you will make the paste then add milk of your choice. I like to use Cows Milk or Soya if I want something a bit sweeter. It’s a delicious blend of warming spices that really rev your agni ( an Ayurvedic term for digestion) typically associated with Sacral/Solar Plexus Chakra.

Turmeric Paste ( Makes 12 )

60G ( 2 oz ) Ground Turmeric

1/4 Cup of Coconut Oil

120mls ( 4fl oz ) Water

1cm (1/2 inch) Freshly grated Ginger

1/2 Teaspoon Cinnamon

1/2 Teaspoon Vanilla Powder

1/4 Teaspoon Ground Cardamom

TURMERIC LatTe

Makes 1

1-2 TBSP Turmeric Paste

240mls ( 8fl oz )

Milk of your choice

2 drops of liquid natural fruit sweetener or 1/2 tbsp Coconut Sugar

1/4 tsp Ashwangdha ( optional)

I tend to put everything in small pan and heat and then just froth up to blend it all together

Top with Ground Cinnamon

I hope you enjoy this recipe.

Let me know in comments if you try.