Deliciously Healthy Facial Masks

I have been meaning to share some things, I have found to be good for your skin, for some time now. It is one thing to read it, and have it make logical sense to you; but in order for it to be truth, you have to try it!! So, that is what I had to do before I posted this.

Everything I have read says "ANTIOXIDANTS, EAT THEM"!! Well, antioxidants have also been reported, on many accounts, to be beneficial to your skin as well. From my personal experience, it has really checked out to be true. So when I discovered these organic, all natural, homemade masks I fell in love!! They are easy to make! Cheap! Chemical free! Oh, and....healthy!!

If you don't have time, and you don't mind paying the money for a good quality product....
CLICK HERE

Here are a few. I will add more as I try them out!


Anti-Aging
Fresh or dried:
Rose hip
Jasmine
Myrrth

Boil water, add ingredients, boil for :30. Cool down. Once cooled to a warm temp. Apply gently to face with a clean cloth. Leave mixture on face for :20 before rinsing. Do this 2 times a week.


Pore Reducer/ Oily Skin mask
Myrtle 
Lavender
Ginseng
1/2 tbl. sp. of lemon juice

Boil the herbs in the water for approx. 1 hour. Then stir in freshly squeezed lemon juice. Apply mask once mixture cools. Leave on for 20 min. before rinsing. 

Daily Protein Mask  
1/4 cup of cucumber juice
2 tbls. of low fat organic milk (can sub water instead)
mix together and apply to neck and face. 

Use daily. 

Clean Pores/ Tone Skin
 1 organic egg white with 1 tbs. of corn flour. Apply to face. Leave on for 15-20 min.

Use 2 times a week.

What should you incorporate in your own homemade, organic facial mask?

Make sure all ingredients are organic. You really should consume only organic ingredients, also. Organic ingredients are good for both your skin, but also your body and health over all. Coincidence? I think not.

Basic Guidelines For The Different Skin Types

For Oily skin
Be careful not to use masks with too much olive oil, avocado, or herbal oils. It is definitely fine for you to consume them, but not necessarily for your skin, due to the tendency to breakout. So instead stick to masks with acidic ingredients, such as lemon, orange, tomato, grapefruit, and cranberries. 
After mask use an oily skin moisturizer to balance out the PH levels.

Acne Prone skin

Same as oily skin, but add St. John's Wort in with ingredients.

Dry skin

Use ingredients such as avocados, olive oil (sparingly), flax-seed oil (sparingly), honey, green tea, banana. 

Sensitive skin

Cucumber and green tea. 

My review so far, on "Emotional Freedom."

Every morning I go for coffee. This has been a ritual of mine for the past 3 years. It's my get away, or time to think in the car about my strategy for the rest of the day/week/near future. This particular morning, I went to Starbucks, and noticed for the first time, there is a little building, that has a sign in front, which says 'Quest Books'. At first I was like, "Really? An adult book store across the street from Starbucks...pathetic." Then as I read, in small print it say "Books for the Mind, Body and Soul." So, I ventured in there. They have a lot to see. They have gemstones in raw form, jewelry, candles, incense, and a ton of books. If you are really into yoga, meditating, or just unique stores, you will like this store.


I was kind of skeptical, as to what kind of place it was. As I continued to slowly browse, I found a couple books I thought looked interesting.

I started reading one of the two books I purchased, as soon as I got home; while laying out in the yard. The one I chose to start with is called "Emotional Freedom." I read a few pages while in the store and it seemed like just the kind of book I needed to read. I will admit, I did judge the book by it's cover, but so far I have to say it too, is exceeding my expectations. I absolutely recommend getting your hands on it. I'm not done yet, but I will be, in a few hours.

The book captures thoughts, ideas and feelings, which I have experienced myself. I've been struggling with the feeling 'the missing information' to bring everything together for me. Basically, to confirm I was on the right about all these things I have 'picked up' throughout my life.

It starts out by the author, Judith talking about how she is an only child, and both of her parents were physicians. They did things the 'old school way'. Her mother operated her own practice for years and was loved by many, but at the age of 70 her elderly mother decided it was necessary for her to take the National State Board Exam. These feelings were driven by a self feeling of inadequacy.  Little did she know, proving this to everyone, would end up putting so much stress on her, it is thought to have caused Leukemia development; and shortly thereafter, she died. Although she did pass her test, she admitted towards her last few days, she most likely would have lived longer, had she not let the negative thoughts bother her so much.

As the book goes on, Judith tells of how she was rebellious growing up, which hit close to home, because, I too was rebellious. Though my parents loved me (same as hers), as a wild and crazy teenager, I felt suffocated by their very conservative way of life; and how they wanted me to be. My parents are religious, so they made me go to  a Christian school and youth group, which I really didn't appreciate very much; although I knew deep down (though I wasn't always as in tune with it), there was a Spiritual world out there. I knew this since I was a child. Not only because I was taught to, but I experienced it. The thing with sending me to the Christian School, and youth group, is... it didn't bring out getting in touch with any of that, in me. In fact, it pushed me away from it. It actually made me more angry and judgmental being there, which to me was hypocritical, of what I should be feeling at a Christian school. I didn't fit in, and that was ok with some people. Those people were who mattered. The problem was I still felt inadequate. Even though deep down I didn't want to fit in, I was happy I was my own self. When I transferred to a public school (of all places), I realized what spirituality really is. The only negative judgement being placed on me, was from me. I figured out what that saying "don't get in the way of your own success," really meant. Removing me from the people I had grown up with, since kindergarten, is what it took for me to tap into who I was. Once I figured that out, I decided who, and where I want to be.

Judith goes on to say, after some counseling, she too learned  that her intuitive way of thinking, and getting in touch with her spiritual self; is how you find what you are  passionate about in life; and what you are meant to do. So she set out to become who she was meant to be. A psychiatrist. She intertwined her spiritual intuitions into her psychiatrist practice. It is her goal, in life, to help people find their inner spiritual self (by methods of meditating), so they can find love, and treat others in the same compassionate way. Needless to say, she spreads love to others, because she genuinely has love for herself. It shows, and people are attracted to her for that reason.

As a Psychiatrist, working in this day and age, she is encouraged, by her peers (like most other psychiatrists and Dr.'s) to prescribe her patients a pill, which will mask their symptoms. However, Judith would much rather treat the real, core issue in people's lives....THEM! 

 

I agree with all of what she has to say so far, and have had theories similar to hers, so it is awesome to hear what she has to say, as far as the successes she has helped create. She basically did all the research for me, and put it together in this book, answering questions I was needing to have answered. I agree with her school of thought regarding negative energy vs positive; and so far everything she explains, about the spiritual realm.


There is medical research which has examined nuns and monks brains while meditating or praying. The results are astonishing!

The thing is, if you look around, with all the hatred and anger in the world, you will notice the more disease and cancer that plagues people. When there is so much drama and negativity surrounding you, it will suck all of the calm feelings out of you.

Your brain's emotional center, the amygdala, starts reacting to a situation (that is really not that big of a deal), as if you were running for you life. Things like getting pissed off, and screaming when someone cuts you off. Screaming at people (especially loved ones), and saying things you can't take back, in an attempt to make a point. These actions all cause your adrenaline to pump, blood pressure to rise, and the fight or flight instincts kick in. This is only supposed to happen when you are in danger. If you continue to live like this, you are poisoning yourself by having your body set off these messages in your brain. What does this cause: anxiety, hyper-tension, depression, some cancers etc. Why? Because your stress hormones now become worrying thoughts.

This book is seriously awesome! For me it  is concluding a lot of ideas I've had, and answering some important questions for me. Throughout life I have always "thought outside of the box" and kept an open mind. After taking a Religion class, learning more about all the different types of religion, on top of what I already knew; there are many notable things I have discovered between them all. I will let you figure out the rest, but I highly suggest you seeking out what you believe in, as a starting point to emotionally free yourself (and spread it).

 I really hope more people will spread love, by beginning with loving themselves. I also hope jealousy will be recognized for poor self-esteem, so more people (especially girls), can fix it. If you want to learn how to better yourself, check it out.

Do you Breath, Think, and Stand Properly?

How Breathing, Posture, and Thinking Effects Your Whole Body

Monday, August 23, 2010

        There are 3 basic things we do in our daily life. We do them every day, automatically, without putting much thought into it. All three of these things, have a HUGE impact, on how we feel!

      The three things, many people do not pay enough attention to, are: their posture, breathing, and thinking patterns; at any given moment, of everyday. Doing any one of these improperly, causes an imbalance, on the other two. It is a balancing act. Just like anything in life!
     You need to make sure everything is balanced, in order for everything to function smoothly.
 Believe it or not, your thinking effects you’re breathing. For example, if you are suffering from mental stress (panic attack or anxiety), it can lead to dysfunctional breathing patterns. Dysfunctional breathing patterns will then lead to postural distortion; and “kinetic chain” dysfunction (the kinetic chain is made up of your muscular system, skeletal, and nervous system).
     So, say you are stressed/worried about something (it happens), it will cause your breathing pattern to be dysfunctional. Meaning, you are taking short, shallow breathes, which makes your secondary respiratory muscles work more than your diaphragm. Causing overuse, of the secondary respiratory muscles (the scalene, sternocleidomastoid, upper trapezius, and levator scapulae), and those muscles are not meant to be used in the breathing process, however they do play a key role is posture.
      As I mentioned, what is termed the “kinetic chain”, is made up of your nervous system, muscular system, and skeletal system. They all work together, in the overall physiology of the body. Logically this is why if one is "off" the other will be as well. An example of this is: when someone suffers a stroke, it usually physically impairs them as well.
      Just so we are all on the same page, here is a basic overview: your nervous system is made up of neurons and neurotransmitters, which are electrical impulses going from your nerves, to your muscles. Your skeletal system is made up of bones and joints, and your muscular system, is what allows movement; of your skeletal system.
       Continuing to breathe dysfunctionally, will most likely lead to altered carbon dioxide and blood oxygen content. This is what leads to feelings of anxiety. Breathing short, shallow breathes, can cause a lot of tension headaches, lightheadedness, and dizziness.
       In life, there are periods of time, when everything may seem to be overwhelming. It is normal, everyone goes through this at one point, or another in their life. The important thing is, how you handle those problems. Good stress management skills are essential, not only for you mentally, but physically, as well. 
       When things start to be too much, take a deep breath!! Make sure you take a breath from your diaphragm, and not your chest.
      Working out is an excellent way to release stress. Breathing correctly, is very important while working out as well. Try to stay conscious of your breathing patterns; it will make a huge difference!!








                                                                         Reference

      Clark, Micheal, Scott Lucett, and Rodney J. Corn. NASM Essentials of Personal Fitness Training. Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer Health/Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, 2008. Print.

Whatcha Eatin'? This App That Will Make Grocery Shopping Fun!

After getting my new phone and downloading this app called “Fooducate”, I decided I should share what I learned from this app with others.

                So let me explain this first. The app is really cool! You take your iphone and scan barcodes on food products, and it grades the product by how healthy it is for you. When you scan the product, it beeps, so beware!  You might want to turn your volume down, so you and whoever you may be shopping with is not embarrassed, or perhaps just ditches you (this is coming from someone who knows). It scans the barcode by using the camera.

                It allows you to compare between two products, so you can pick between two snacks you want, to see which one is healthier, has less fat, less calories, etc. It also gives to healthier alternatives.

                My favorite feature is that it tells you if it contains Trans fats, artificial flavors, citric acid, high-fructose corn syrup, etc. You can read about the additives in the foods and it tells you what the purpose is of that particular un-natural substance found in that product.

                Are you aware of the fact that companies add things such as natural/artificial flavors to foods to make them taste better? Many times it’s because it masks the lack of flavor from lack of natural ingredients. Artificial flavoring is found in products such as fruit snacks, frozen foods, and prepared meals. Home cooked meals, fruits, and vegetables don’t need artificial flavoring added to them, because they are natural ingredients.

                Any artificial coloring found in foods is bad for you. Companies that used coloring to help make their product look more appealing to buy used to use natural coloring; like beet juice for red and other natural foods for other colors. Now companies are mainly concerned about cutting costs, so they add cheap, un-natural colors. Some of them have been discovered to cause hyper activity (ADHD) in children, as well as cancer and allergies.

                Citric acid is a common one. This is not to be mistaken for vitamin C. Citric acid is responsible for tart and sour tastes to mimic the lemon or lime flavor. Companies use this because it is so cheap to manufacture…because it’s artificial!

                Beware of ( BHT) Butylated hydroxytoluene. It is an additive used to retard rancidity in oils and food that contain oils and fats. Surprisingly, BHT as well as some other very terrible things, are found in none other than products such as Kellogg’s fiber bars. Just goes to show you, when you think you are getting something healthy and on the box it says “with anti-oxidants”, you need to read the label and see what kind of ingredients it has in it. Studies have shown this is one additive that is best to avoid.

                                      Choose this over....

This!

                When there are more than 35 ingredients in any product, you should probably not get it, especially if you can’t pronounce most of them.

                Hope you learned something new about what is in your food!

Train Your Brain For Success!

According to the book "The Greatest Book of All Time," which has taught me some new things, about creating your life to be what you want it to be.  Much of this, I've already put in to play, but I always try to learn something. And I did. For example, did you know, "human beings think 65,000 thoughts a day? Eighty-five percent of these thoughts are the same exact ones you thought the day before. Due to the fact day after day, you spend most of your time thinking the same exact thoughts. "Essentially you are a robot repeating the same loop of thoughts." Did you know, "what you think about, you become?"

Ninety-five percent of your thoughts are sub-conscious, meaning, you think these thoughts, and don't even know it. Kind of like when you drive to work; you drive the same route everyday, not putting much thought into getting there. You just do it.

As kids, our brains soak up information (good/bad); like a sponge sucking up water. The things you learn get placed in your brain; where all your beliefs, emotions, attitudes and opinions (perspective on life), gets stored....in your subconscious.

All the times you were told you have a big nose, your fat, ugly, stupid, too short....those opinions of you, live in your sub-conscious. These are part of the 65,000 thoughts you think daily. They are part of the 95% (your sub-conscious), that are on the repeat playlist.

"Thoughts create beliefs, and beliefs create reality."

Don't want those same negative things to continue to poison your brain? Do you want to be successful? Well, when things aren't making you happy, you have to change it; to get new results. If you aren't willing to change, you will get the same results. In fact the reason why most people's lives never change, is because those same thoughts continue to loop in their head. They have settled with not being happy.

How to re-program yourself? Figure out two things to start out with, things you want to change. For example I said, "being late." I worked on this starting 3 years ago, and have mastered it. Everyday I work towards a list of goals, that are important to me. You would be surprised what a good feeling you experience at the end of the year, when you lived everyday of your life, for the things you love, and want in life. If you work everyday towards making everyone else happy, or just to "get by", you probably don't feel too accomplished. So Change it!

Figure out what you want to change and after 28 days of working on it, it will become permanent. So if you want to lose weight say, " I deserve to be 28lbs. lighter." Believe it. Say it out loud for 28 days. Work at it! You will do it, I guarantee it. "You can do anything you put your mind to."

"Happiness comes from facing challenges, going out on a limb, and taking risks. If you are not willing to take a risk for something you really care about (you), you might as well be dead." - Andrew Shneider

 Happiness also comes from people. It is important to have friends and family. People that don't have others, aren't happy. This is why it is important to forgive those who have hurt you. We are all humans. We all make mistakes, have faults, weaknesses, and the like. Instead of harvesting resentment against your family, friends, or co-workers, just forgive them. It's easier. Why cause negative feelings for you and them? It's inevitable you won't get along with everyone you come across in life, but why continue to add to your list of enemies, if you can choose to not let it bother you? Resentment burdens you with pain, stress and negativity. Treat others how you want to be treated. If there are times in life you thought you deserved a second chance, give others that chance you wish you got. Be the better person.

Go out on a limb and make new relationships (as well as maintain/mend old ones). You would be surprised, there are some really cool people strolling the same streets you are.  Don't be the typical shut off, jerk walking down the street. Ask people how there day is, hold the door, be kind.

Not only do humans make mistakes, but just like all things in life, they die. Another good reason to forgive people, especially ones you know you will regret not saying you love them to, before they pass away; and you never see them again. Make sure you tell your siblings, parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, kids, dog, kitty, fish, etc. that you love them. Make sure they know, and you know they know. Even if you are fighting. Still let them know, you love them regardless of the fact you don't see eye to eye.

Create your subconscious loop of thinking, to only include positive, true things! Forgive yourself and forgive others, no one is perfect. Also, eliminate the BS in your life. Stay away from drama. Grow up. Accomplish things....like.... your dreams!! Concern yourself with YOU and those who support you, and take responsibility for YOUR life!

Don't B snippy. B Happy!

     I learned a lot this week. About myself. Trust me, the way I learned it, was not in the best of ways...let me tell you. Being so frustrated, and upset over EVERYTHING! Stressed to the max, snippy....not fun (for anyone). I really wondered what was wrong with me. I felt like something was just not right. This was not me, but yet I couldn't help it.

 For the sake of those I love. I did some research, in search of what this missing "thing," that made me feel not myself was, and I found my answer! I was deficient in vitamin B, specifically B12. Who knew? It was crazy, because I have been doing really good about running 5 days a week, and I've been eating very light, clean meals, drinking green tea, and water more than normal. I just didn't get it. I didn't take my vitamins a couple of days in a row, and all the sudden Tuesday I felt like a volcano, ready to errupt.

     In my research I found these things, which really convinced me, this is no joke.

• According to: http://www.healthylife-healthyplanet.com/b-vitamins.html, "When was the last time you went through a day without sugar, processed foods, alcohol, caffeine or STRESS?  Everyone of these, depletes your body's supply of vitamin B."

•  The benefits of Vitamin B is: converting food to energy, forming healthy red blood cells, reducing the risk of heart disease, reduce or even eliminate PMS symptoms, reduce or eliminate anemia, minimize and even eliminates depression, preventing birth defects. 

• If you experience the following symptoms, you may be suffering from vitamin B defiency: Mood changes, irritability, nervousness, fatigue, depression, headaches, dizziness, trembling, loss of appetite, insomnia, and sugar cravings.

     So, before you decide to individually treat each of these symptoms, separately, with things such as pain killers, anti-depressants, Midol, or cookies; get yourself some vitamin B. Many people are deficient in this very important vitamin. Processed food, and food once it's heated; strip the vitamin B out of the food (this is why the raw diet is beneficial). Your body depletes of vitamin B the fastest, and if you continue to not treat it, it can cause serious health problems.

Here's the breakdown of all the B vitamins:

• energy booster .....B12
• immune system booster ....B complex
• blood pressure regulator .....B3
• helps lowers cholesterol ....B3
• helps promote weight loss .....B6, B12
• helps body process protein .....B1
• adds moisture to skin .......B2
• encourage glowing skin ...B5
• strengthen nails protects from breakage ......B5
• soothing and natural calming agent .....B6
• energy production ....B1, B2
• stress fighter .....B5
• helps prevent Alzheimer ......B1
• helps alleviate Crohn's disease discomfort .....B3, B6
• Joint disease reliever ....B3
• Athletes performance booster & muscle builder ....B6,B2
• Emotional well-being and staple of nervous system .....B12, B1, B6, B3, B5  

    If you are on a vegetarian (and especially vegan diet) it is VERY important to take a B vitamin (B complex, B12, B6) everyday! I believe this was somewhat the cause of my problem. I have cut down on eating dairy, and meat in the past few months, and that is where most people get (some) B vitamins from. I am not vegan, I just have been eating lighter meals, because it's so hot out. You'll find vitamin B in things like meat, eggs, milk, and shellfish.

    Extreme deficiency, in vitamin B, can actually lead to brain damage. So make sure if you take action, if any of this sounding like maybe you have signs of deficiency.  Check out:  http://www.amway.com/AmyFiedler/Shop/Product/Category.aspx/Vitamins-Supplements.

What Is Your Perspective?

Typical dinners with my family usually include lots of stories about past times, where there is usually some debate about how someone remembers something totally different than the other person. For example, " I was grounded for like 2 weeks." "No way, we never grounded you for 2 weeks." Or "I remember when I was like 5...." "You weren't 5 you were 9."

It happens with friends too, when someone recalls a funny story, there is always that one person like, "noooo, we drank like 10 beers......and we were with Tony not Jon." It's funny how every person involved in the convo/debate could have been there, but their view of the situation, is different from the next persons. Sometimes, really different.

In life everyone has a different perspective of what life is, beliefs, ways of looking at things (pessimist/optimist). Even, like I mentioned, your own family members will have a different perspective than you do sometimes.

Something else I've noticed is, perspective is everything to a person. Just like you can't convince me Kim Kardashian should be famous, you can't convince a person their perspective is wrong. This is different than their opinion, it goes deeper than that. Perspective is based on a person's view of life, who they trust and why, based on positive and negative experiences.

Two people could walk into a store together (but separate) and person #1 is greeted with a "hello (smiling), how can I help you today?" but person #1 is having a crappy day, one of those days where everything is going wrong. Person #1 is so focused on how crappy of a day he is having, he doesn't even acknowledge the fact anyone just said hello, and smiled at him. Person #2 walks in at the same time, and is greeted in the same way. Person #2 is polite and smiles back, takes time to genuinely acknowledge that the person standing at the door, is in fact a human being, who is greeting people with a genuine spirit. Do you think if you asked person #1 and person #2 if they had a good experience they would say the same thing? Would you be surprised if person #1 would say he wasn't greeted, if asked?

I am guilty of being person #1 when I have those day, weeks, or months; when everything I do seems to be getting me no where, but backwards (so it seems). The problem with this is, when you focus on the negative things in life, you dwell on all that is not good. You let the pleasant things go unnoticed. It is very important to not get stuck in the rut of negativity. Always wondering when the next problem is going to come up. Assuming negative things about people. I personally can take blame for that. Having worked in the service industry, I have seen and dealt with all kinds or personalities, attitudes, etc. Sometimes it is hard for me to not assume things about people, because there are so many tall tale signs of how a person will be, just based on their body language, and few first words that come out of their mouth. So, based on what I have experienced with people, I tend to pre-judge sometimes. I forget I need to treat people how I want to be treated, and not how I have been treated by other rude people I have come across in life.

I am guilty of being person #1, but for the most part, I try really hard not to judge people. I try to give people the benefit of the doubt. I try to be a good example of a loving person. I really do try to notice all the "little" blessings in life, daily.

What may be a "little blessing" to me, is a big one to someone else. For example, when I run in the morning, I think to myself sometimes, "wow, I am thankful I have legs that work." How often are you thankful for your limbs? Most people who are fortunate, don't think about this. That is sad. It's like they say, "Don't know what you got til it's gone?"

Being  thankful for your health, is another thing. If you are a healthy person, you are fortunate. Suffering is not fun. This is a HUGE reason why it is important to not take a healthy body for granted; stuffing it with a bunch of junk and bunch of chemicals.

I am sure I am not the only person that is guilty of being like person #1. In fact I know so. Here's the thing though, being like person #1 is not productive. Being too consumed with your own problems is totally normal. Allowing your problems to effect your perspective of life (and all that surrounds you), and viewing things in a negative light, causes the spread of anger, depression, hatred, self doubt, self pity, and just plain miserable, ugly, crap. It doesn't need to be polluting your mind, soul and perspective; of what life really has to offer you. So don't let it!

Being like person #2 takes a conscious effort. It is important not to punish everyone around you for the pain others have caused you. Spread the attitude of thankfulness, joy, love, and generosity. It makes you feel better.... and the people around you; so it is productive x's 2. Trust me, it will get you further in life! Everyone looks better with a smile!

Garlic Zucchini!

I am not a fan of most stir fry's, or veggie sautes which include zucchini in them. In fact without them... I love sautes. So when the request for Zucchini was mentioned, as a suggestion, for a side dish for dinner the other night; I was really dreading the thought of eating them. It's the one, and only vegetable I really didn't enjoy. So, I decided to try to change my own mind about them about them, and gave them another shot (this time being prepared by me).

Well..... I succeeded! I really liked it!

In this version (below) I didn't include any garlic powder, because I was told it was too garlicy. I liked it, and if you like garlic...add it in.

 What you need:

• 2 sliced Zucchinis'
• 1/4 cup of Extra virgin Olive Oil
• 1/2 tbsp. of minced garlic
• 1 tbs. of greens seasoning (veggie seasoning)
• sprinkle with celery salt
• sprinkle with Parmesan cheese (optional)
• 4-5 drops of soy sauce
• 2-3 drops of balsamic vinegar
• sprinkle lightly with bread crumbs (optional)

Take a medium sized frying pan, with a little bit of olive oil in it. Add Garlic and Zucchini. Saute for 3-5 minutes (just a hint of browning). Then transfer to a baking pan. Add  another 1/4 cup of Olive Oil, Soy sauce and balsamic vinegar. mix around. Add seasoning (greens seasoning and celery salt).  And stir around getting everything mixed in. Add bread crumbs and top with Parmesan cheese.

Bake in oven at 350 degrees F for approximately 15 min. Every oven is different, so just be sure to check on them. Once the bread crumbs and cheese starts browning, it's done.

serves: 1-2

Cherry Tomato/Cucumber Salad!! Mmmmm.....

Wow, ever since school is done with for the semester, and I am somewhat settled into our very temporary home; I have been a cooking machine!! Whippin' up new healthy stuff left and right!! The best thing about it, I have someone else to enjoy eating it with finally!

Since my boyfriend refuses to eat anything BUT what a child around the age of 5 eats. LOL! He refuses to try new things.... and veggies.....the thought, and sight of them, make him cringe. It got to the point, I was making two dinners. Then, I put my foot down, and taught him how to make his own hamburger helper. Don't get me wrong, I love him, so in no way am I disrespecting him; but we most definitely have different eating habits.

So, back to what I was saying about having someone to enjoy healthy food with....since it is obviously not A, it's his dad!! He loves all the recipes I make up, and try out. So I hope you do too!!

                                                              Cherry Tomato and Cucumber Salad
         What you need:

• 1/2c. extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4c. white wine vinegar
• minced garlic
• 1/2 package of cherry tomatoes chopped in 1/4ths
• 1 chopped cucumber (1/4 slices)
• 1 tsp. seasoning salt
• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
• pepper to taste
• 1/4 tsp. celery salt   
• Medium Salad bowl                                                
  

Add Cucumber and Tomato to Salad bowl. Season with all seasoning. Pour in olive oil and white wine vinegar. Mix together! Amazing!!

Serving size: 1-2

Now the thing with this is, this is only a portion of the real recipe! The real deal is Take a pita shell, fill it with garlic hummus, brown rice, this salad, and grilled chicken!! To die for!! A meal like that can be heavy, so when I want something light and refreshing I just make the salad part and eat it like there is no tomorrow!!

Finding Peace And Taking Time To Relax

Some people struggle with ways to keep themselves busy, while others struggle with ways to get all they have to get done, done.

I am one who struggles with getting everything done. It's not because I am unorganized it's because I have a million things going on consistently. I am not complaining either. I like that I am busy. I would rather be out accomplishing my dreams, totally ready for bed at the end of the day, with a happy, accomplished spirit; everyday of my life. So that is what I do.

On the flip side. Having a cram packed schedule, a million appointments, two jobs, homework, the normal daily grind, and a regular workout schedule, can get tiring and stressful. It also makes it very hard to be patient with people that have nothing going on in their life. I have little to no patience for people who take their sweet time, call you constantly, or just have no sense of many things urgency, common sense, common decency, etc.

Recently, I found myself kind of at the point of restlessness. On edge. Waking up in the middle of the night, to add to the to-do list, or write something in my agenda. I realized I needed to relax. I needed to work hard to clear out my schedule, and make time to just not do SO much. I kept the things like my runs in the morning going, which I enjoy so much. I found my new favorite place in town, and on the way found a beautiful bird sanctuary. It's the little things that make me happy!

My new favorite place in town Honey has organic everything including my favorite....coffee!

This year is going to be crazy. I know that. There is no way around it. Between all I have mentioned, along with weddings, baby showers, moving (most likely one more time in the pretty near future)....ya! It's life.

Thankfully I have found peace among the craziness. I am coping with all the change that are going on in my life, and I am doing SO much better than I was in the beginning of April. Lately, I continue to find myself just really appreciating everything that is going on right now.

 If you don't enjoy the NOW, life will just pass you right by. Something I learned is: if you don't enjoy the process, of all of what it takes to get where you want to be in life ("the journey"), then what is the point in working so hard?

I am super thankful for this Summer weather we have been blessed with lately, because I am in love with my morning runs! On that note....I'm going for one right now!

A Couple New Recipes

Cherry Tomato/Avocado Salad

         You will need:

• 1 package of organic cherry tomatoes chopped
• 1 avocado chopped
• 1/2 tbs. minced garlic
• 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup of white wine vinegar
• 1 tbs. of seasoning salt
• 1/2 tbs. onion powder
• 1/2 tbs. garlic powder
• black pepper to taste
• Medium size mixing bowl

In Bowl combine Tomatoes, avocado, and garlic. Season with seasoning salt, onion powder and garlic powder. Separately mix olive oil and white wine vinegar, then drizzle over all ingredients in bowl and stir around.

Serves: 1-2


                            Sauteed Mushroom/Spinach
                    
          You will need:

• 1 package of Portabella sliced mushrooms
• Approx. 30-50 leaves of fresh spinach
• 1 tbs. minced garlic
• 1/4 cup of vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 tsp soy sauce
• 1/4 tsp worsheshire sauce
• celery salt
• parsley
• garlic salt
• medium sized frying pan

 Add olive oil, soy sauce, and worseshire sauce. Saute mushrooms
and garlic. Season with celery salt, garlic salt and parsley.
Once the garlic starts looking brown, add vegetable broth

and spinach. Cover and cook until spinach is wilted.

serves: 1-2

Signature Body Diva Recipes, soon to be added to www.thebodydiva.com

Shamrock Shuffle 8k 2012! My Results!

     Although I've been athletic most of my life, I will admit, running distances was never my cup of tea. Sprinting, yes, (that is what I did most in gymnastics), but distance NO.

I remember my first time running a mile, In 5th grade, my time was like 11 min. I couldn't run the whole thing. A couple of years ago, when I decided I was going to make myself like running, my time was 13 min.

This was my starting point. 13 mins.

    The competitive side of me decided one day, that I would be running races. I hated distance running. My new and extreme goal for myself was, I would to learn how to fix that. I was on my "fix what I don't like," mission.

     In one year's time, I went from walking 2-3 miles, to running 1-2 miles, 5 days a week, gradually working up the courage to run 5 miles a couple of times (can't remember my times, but I'm sure it was nothing impressive). The next year (last year), I was running, on average 3-4 miles, 3 days a week, while doing other cardio; such as ballet and Zumba. I increased my distance to 8 miles, toward the end of last years season, finishing the 8 mile run in 1:15 which is an average pace of 9:22. I also accomplished my PR for running a mile in 8:39. I am far from a record breaking runner, but every time I get out and do it, I get better.

So before I give you my results I must say this....

      I know it's the beginning of the season, and I shouldn't let it bother me, because it was for fun, but ending last years season with an 8:39 mile, and then running a 5 mile race in 52 min. is not good at all. It's a big disappointment. I did 3 more miles last year and had better time than that. I know I should have trained more (I definitely didn't train very much), and I know I shouldn't have picked up the shift at work, resulting in me arriving home at 1am (when we had to be out of the house by 7am that morning). There were some other factors as well, but most importantly, this is a starting point for this year.

       I know what to fix. I know I can do SO much better, and that is what I need to focus on going forward. Lesson learned, without proper training, sleep, and positive mindset; you will be garbage on race day.

      On the other hand, the people I went with did well, and I am happy for them! We are already planning a 10k. This time, I will make sure I am more prepared. Need to get started on those longer distance runs!

11 Easy Things To Incorporate In Your Life To Be Happy, Healthy and Successful!

 11 Ways To Be Happy, Healthy, and Successful     

 Amy Fiedler  

Here are 11 ways to better your life. If you find yourself in a slump, see if you are doing all of the following things. If you aren't, try incorporating them in your life, and I guarantee you will feel so much better!   

1.) Eat Breakfast Every Morning. "Breakfast Eaters are the champion of good health." Research has shown those who eat breakfast, tend to take in more vitamins, minerals, and not as much fat. There is less chance of over eating or craving unhealthy snacks (ie. in the vending machine at school or work).    
A good breakfast includes carbs, protein & a small amount of fat. Some good ones are: Cottage Cheese & fruits, a veggie omelet, toast with peanut butter, oatmeal
*Best if all eggs, meat, fruit, and peanut butter; are organic. The meat--antibiotics and growth hormones free, and grass fed.

2.) Introduce Fish and omega-3 fatty acids, to your diet.  It is recommended you have a serving of fish-- twice a week.  Fish is a good source of protein. It is also relatively low in bad types of fat such as saturated fat. Fish contains omega -3 fatty acids, which have been proven to reduce the risk of heart disease. In addition to heart benefits, there has been some evidence proving omega-3 fatty acids have reduced allergies, asthma, eczema, and auto immune disorders.     
     Although, I haven't found anything saying, "consuming fish during pregnancy or (omega-3 fatty acids) has helped cut down on allergies or eczema in newborns and infants", it would make sense to think that it does.    
     There was a study done, where they took a group of pregnant women, and gave them a 400mg daily of DHA omega-3; throughout their pregnancy. Those mothers delivered healthier babies then all of those that did not.  At one month, the babies from the mothers who took the 400mg of omega-3 had 25% less sick babies with colds and coughs. At the age of 3 months the babies in the experiment were found to have less chance of diaper rash, being severely sick with flu symptoms, were found to be heavier and 3/4cm. longer then the babies who's mothers did not consume omega-3, by the age of 18 months. (Emory University)

3.) Get Enough Sleep.  32 Million people said they have fallen asleep driving. Each year, more than 100,000 car accidents are due to people sleeping at the wheel. Sleep is vital to having emotional well-being, and a clear and focused mind. Sleep deprivation can negatively affect memory, learning and logical reasoning.     
Children and teens need at least 7-10 hrs. of slumber a night. Newborns - infants need the most sleep, in order to make their brain grow properly. Teenagers also require more sleep than adults. It is important that teenagers get no less than 8 hours of sleep, a night, to be able to cope better with mood swings, and changes due to puberty.

4.) Find a Social Connection. Volunteer. Go to Church. Take a photography class, but whatever you do make some new connections with people.     
Having more connections with people, helps to have new, and interesting, perspectives on what others live like. More connections, means more opportunities; to learn new things. You never know who you will meet.

5.) Exercise.  Everyone knows the benefits, but still so many people choose not to do it. More then 60% of the country don't exercise and more than 60% of Americans are obese. Coincidence? I think not! Here is a review of the benefits. Weight Control, Reduces Premature death....  Should I keep going? Just in case you aren't convinced.... Reduces risk for disease (high blood pressure, diabetes, cardio vascular disease).   

• Helps gain self-confidence     
• Anti-ager    
• Helps reduce effects of old age     
• Makes for strong bones, muscles, and joints     
• Good for stress management and mood  

6.) Practice Good Dental Hygiene.  "Flossing your teeth could add 6.4 years to your life." How? Plaque develops bacteria which causes inflammation and the bacteria enters the blood stream and blocks blood vessels, which causes heart disease.     
There have also been links between oral bacteria and pre-term babies, strokes, diabetes, and low birth weight babies.      
Not to mention, it helps better present yourself. Adds self confidence. Plus, bad breath is really repulsive.

7.) Find A Hobby.  Find something you enjoy doing, that brings you relaxations, and happiness. If you have always enjoyed watch dancing, sign up for a class on groupon, or at your park district. My Grandma always wanted to learn how to tap dance. I remember her telling me this from the time I was about 3 years old. About 10 years ago, she decided to sign up at the park district, and she loves it! You only live once, learn how to do the things your always wanted to learn and participate in. Who knows, maybe you'll end up doing it for a living, after you discover you are good at it!

8.) Snack Healthy.  Instead of eating potato chips and dip, exchange the chips with carrots, tomatoes, cucumbers, or any of your favorite veggies.     
If you have a sweet tooth, get some strawberries, melon, blueberries or any other type of your favorite fruits.     
Cheese and crackers are fine too, yogurt, cottage cheese, brushetta. Get creative! 

9.) Drink Lots of Water. Less-active person should drink 2 water bottles of water at least, a day. A moderately active person 4, and a very active person at least 6-8.     
Drinking water helps tremendously with weight loss. Most importantly water is essential for life. It is what your body is mainly made up of. By not drinking water (much similar food), your body goes into "survival mode" and stores it and you retain it. For girls, this is really proven around "that time of the month". If you are bloated, drink more water!

10.) Go For A Stroll.  Depending on where you live, this may not always be something you can do. You can always find somewhere to go and take a walk; to enjoy life and the things around you. If you have a pet, take them with! It is a great way to stay active, enjoy the nature around you, and force yourself to relax. It's best to be outside and watch the animals scurry around. You will be surprised what you can see.      
It's always refreshing when you can take time to appreciate life and what surrounds you, rather then always be in a hurry to rush through life, and be on your way to the next thing.

11.) Plan and Make Goals.  In order to live a successful life, you need a direction to a end goal. Do some soul searching and figure out what you're good at. What are you passionate about? Once you have figured out those two things, figure out what actions you can take to accomplish those things. Maybe your hobby or social networking will help supply the answer.      

Build and create your life. It's your life, so in the end what matters is that you feel full-filled. In order for that to happen, you need to accomplish your goals. Accomplishing goals and getting opportunities that you have always dreamed of, is how you gain self-confidence. When you have self-confidence, people respect you, and you find it easy to talk to just about anyone. All of these 11 things correlate and produce a happy, healthy, successful you!    

Works Cited  

Zamora, Dolce. "13 Healthy Habits to Improve Your Life." MD.com - Your Online Medical Resource. Www.md.com, 14 June 2004. Web. 18 Aug. 2011. <http://www.md.com>.  Emory University (2011, August 5). Omega 3 fatty acids have protective benefits when taken during pregnancy, study suggests.

One of my blessings went to heaven

Unfortunately on 3/4/3012, at about 9pm, I was informed my "Aunt Dolly," which was actually my great Aunt, had passed away. Her name was actually Stephanie, but because of her happy loving spirit, the name Dolly fit her better.

My Aunt Dolly was a very important person in my life. In fact, she was a very important person in many people's lives. I'm not referring to other family members, although that is very true as well, but other people.... that we don't even know. She was a sweet, generous, hospitable, fun, and a very loving person. Her smiling red lips and radiant personality, could never go unnoticed.

The one thing about my Aunt Dolly is, she never didn't have a smile on her face. She was always happy. There was no challenge she couldn't take on, or she didn't conquer. She was diagnosed with ovarian cancer and beat it. In the past year, she had two surgeries and survived, she suffered from osteoporosis, and lived with it for years. She lived to be 91 years old! That is a huge accomplishment! She was able to see 3 generations grow up.

I have some awesome memories with her. She used to always paint my nails when I was little, and make me paper doll families. One of my favorite things, that I absolutely LOVED doing was, walking around in her high heel shoes and wearing her clip on earrings. She would always pamper my sister  and I.

I just feel very blessed to have had such a wonderful role model, all these years. My Aunt Dolly was an incredible person! She took care of anyone and everyone, before herself. If you were sick, she cooked you her wonderful home cooked meals. She made everything from scratch, and it was always out of this world!! It is amazing to me, how God used this one person to touch so many lives, over the course of 91 years. She was making friends right up to the end.

Yesterday, when she was laid to rest, next to her husband (he passed in 1974), she was buried with her rosary and  Polish prayer book, as she requested. She prayed everyday, which is how I know she is in good hands now. Nonetheless, she will be greatly missed, but she is truly an inspiration to me. While I will never be close to as strong, brave, and slow to anger as she was...I will try a little harder, to adapt some of the characteristics she had, that I admired so much.

Your epidermis is showing...

We all know, smoking is bad for your lungs, but what it does to your skin is just ugly.

I used to smoke, but I quit. Why? There are tons of reasons, but just to name a couple big ones....I could NOT get over how it makes you get wrinkles (or that rough smokers voice).

Anyway back to skin, which is the biggest organ in your body, and just like any organ, it needs to be cared for, if you want it to stay in good condition.



Instead of a chemical peel, this stuff is the best. All natural, beautiful and noticeable results!


Click the link to do your skin assessment!http://www.amway.com/AmyFiedler/Shop/Product/Product.aspx/ARTISTRY-TIME-DEFIANCE-Vitamin-C-Wild-Yam-Treatment?itemno=E7313

There are certain vegetables and fruits, that are good for your skin. For example Eggplant, which I was happy to learn about, on the Dr. OZ show. Here's another article about how eggplant has treated skin cancer....http://www.nutritionresearchcenter.org/healthnews/home-treatment-for-skin-cancer-with-eggplant-derivative/ . Avocados (anti-aging), cucumbers, bell peppers (and some others), and leafy greens are some others. Oils such as Olive oil, are good for moisturizing and anti-aging also.

Water and Green Tea are very beneficial for your skin, over all health, and digestion. Digestion problems can cause things like blemishes on your face; especially around your lips. I was told this by my aestetrician. If you can buy organic food, it is really the way to go, because it has no additives, preservatives, or pesticides, meaning it is much better for your digestive system. So, your stomach and skin will benefit.

Stress causes breakouts, and pissed off faces cause wrinkles. Not very attractive. When I was young my dad always told me, "if you keep making that face, it might stay that way." Little did I know, when you get older, and you skin starts losing it's elasticity, it really will take the form of what facial expression it does most. If you are a angry, mad, or miserable, your face will stay like that. Make sure you smile! Smiling is the best thing you can ever do. Everyone loves a happy person, unless they're a miserable person.

Exfoliate your skin, messaging gently (especially gentle around the eyes), and moisturize it. It is important to rid your skin of it's dead cells. Doing this, in combination with the massaging motion, will help in keeping pores unclogged, as well. Once you unclog them, you need to make sure the lotion you put on your face isn't going to clog them again. Make sure you use a face lotion which also protects your skin. Even if it's just SPF 15, it's better then nothing.

Not that outer beauty and judging people on their skin is right, but when it comes to your outer appearance, make it as healthy and beautiful as possible. It's the skin you live in. Treat it nice and don't forget to smile! : )

Improving by the inches!

Many people don't know this about me, but I guess I can share this with the whole world.....

I was diagnosed with spinal scoliosis (curvature of the spine), at the young age of 5 years old. It was not super terrible, but it was monitored throughout my whole childhood. At one point, my parents decided to "brace me," for precautionary reasons; because every time I hit a growth spurt (in my pre-teen years) my spine would get worse.

<----- This is actually pretty accurate to what my x-rays looked like!

As a child (especially while in the bracing stages), I HATED the fact I had this "defect," that made me different. I was determined to find the cure, so I could be like everyone else. I embraced my difference, and was determined to fix myself.

At the age of 16 (I believe), I was learning about the skeletal and muscular system, in more depth than I had in the past, when I began thinking to myself, "Well, if my spine is made of bones, and it's not straight, and muscles are what supports the bones, then my right side of muscles (parallel to my spine)  vs. the left side of my muscles (parallel to my spine), must not be evenly distributing the same tension, which is why my spine isn't straight." The obvious solution...to strengthen the weak side!

For the past few years, I have been actively training in the gym. Participating in activities such as running, ballet, and aerobic exercises, to strengthen my core, as well as doing things like back extensions, and side extensions, to tighten the muscles keeping my back and spine in place.

About a year ago I had my sister measure my height, she said I was 5'2. Before I was 5'1 and 3/4. Just a few weeks ago....5' 2 1/2!!! Although I haven't gotten any recent x-rays, the flaws I always saw in the mirror (reminding me my back was not perfectly straight), have slowly started to diminish!!