Posts Tagged ‘Shannon Leone’

Today, The World Suddenly Got Alot Smaller

Monday, March 8th, 2010 by admin

To all the multi-tasking mamas who are the peacemakers, the boo-boo kissers, the tear wipers, the lull-a-bye singers, the grocery shoppers and menu makers, the domestic engineers and working Wonderwomen, the visionaries who see the best in our children and work tirelessly, invisibly…the list of our titles and duties goes on and on…

wish-banner-slimTODAY is International Woman’s Day! And I invite you to join with me and about 10,000 other women around the world, in a celebration of our womanhood! We are gathering like women have done since time immemorial to tell our stories, share our collective wisdom and concerns, offer support and solutions, and have communion- united communication in the spirit of building community.

Tera and I have been excitedly working together to produce the biggest, most world-class event of its kind to celebrate Women’s Day. It’s called WISH Women’s International Summit for Health.

If you enjoyed the raw Mom Summit you are going to love this!

We have included over 40 of the world’s most sought after speakers for this, in and outside of the raw community including Marianne Williamson, Dr Mercola, David Wolfe, Janet Attwood, Tonya Zavasta, Marci Shimoff, Victoria Boutenko, and many, many more!

We discuss all the things on the minds of modern women today: Finances, Health, Beauty, Relationships, Self-Worth, Parenting, Sustainability, Spirituality etc etc and yes, it is available for FREE over the next 10 days.

WISH Women’s International Summit for Health

They say it takes a village to raise a child, well, the global village just got smaller because we are bringing a stellar line up of world speakers right to you. With this online banquet of delicious topics and speakers, all made with love for you to be lavished with and enjoy, my hope is that you feel as I do, that the world is getting smaller and that women are getting closer. Our connection regardless of our physical proximity is enhanced when we can come together in the spirit of celebration and empowerment, and that is what WISH is all about.

christine_aruyloThese people I interviewed and their contributions just opened my world to so many things, it is truly a gift that will keep on giving as I continue to assimilate everything I learned. For example, I’ll leave you with this teaser which came from one of the calls that just blew me away that will be made available as a BONUS~

One of the key distinctions I became aware of just this week which has actually CHANGED MY LIFE came as I interviewed Christine Arylo who wrote the book Choosing Me Before We- It is that Self-Esteem is NOT the same thing as Self-Love…Do YOU know the difference? Overwhelm and exhaustion are sure signs you may not…Please post your answers below.

Happy Women’s Day!

xoShakaya

YOU ARE A DREAM… A WISHED FOR DREAM.

Wednesday, March 3rd, 2010 by admin

terainbluebellsMy mom used to whisper sweet things in our ear when we were young, and I love to do this too whenever my boys are falling asleep or heading out the door…One day I must share with you our night time ritual which is just so special…Even though my boys are getting bigger at 10 and 12, they still ask for it and says it helps them fall asleep.

In the meantime, let’s talk about wishes…Cinderella says a wish is a dream you have kept in your heart. Every mother has a dream in her heart for her children. These dreams are our guiding light to give us strength when we need it, to brighten our lives when we lose hope, and to sweeten our steps of this overwhelmingly intense journey we find ourselves on.

Have you ever written out what you wish for? What you dream of? Have you given any loving attention to your rich inner world? Women have the power to birth life and build communities; we are naturally imbued with a sacred heart. If we do not take time to center ourselves there, the inheritance of our ancestors cannot prevent that power from being leaked and drained away from us.

I recently had the honour of interviewing Marianne Williamson for WISH which I’d like to share about. WISH is a world-wide empowerment party for women and you are all invited! Tera had a dream in her heart to build community and empower women for many years and has actively been engaging herself in that mission.

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What is the Optimal Diet for Your Family?

Sunday, February 28th, 2010 by admin

Judgement is like an eclipse of the sun…It blocks the light. ~ Marianne Williamson

shakaya-feb-2010Have you noticed there seems to be a movement sweeping through the raw community..? Many people are discussing it, many are doing it, and some are advocating it. I’m talking about the idea of widening our conception of what in fact is the healthiest diet. Let me ask you something, do YOU know what the optimal diet is? Most of us here would say a raw diet. Buuuuut, what exactly is a raw diet? How raw are you supposed to be to be considered raw? Is it all or nothing, or how important is the percentages of raw to cooked ratio for health? Does being raw mean being vegan? How healthy is the struggle of striving for a particular ideal, only to fail time and time again? How about when you desire certain goals, but the stress of striving for them outweigh the results? What about if there is judgement from other people or YOURSELF? Are there issues that lie underneath that aren’t being addressed through diet alone? Is focusing solely on diet as the means of obtaining health balanced? Or can it become toxic? What about the kids?? What does all the hyper-focus on the food mean to them? Is being raw a rawligion? What does it really mean to YOU?

There are truly amazing people in the raw movement who seem to be quite adept in their ability to trust their instincts and do due diligence with their research- using both hemispheres of the brain to ascertain what is right for them on their health journey- and we have learned much from them and been so inspired. However, it was always what worked for THEM that they did and eventually espoused. Of course, when anyone has the clarity and passionate beliefs and acts upon them with conviction, the innate strength and rightness of being which one is imbued with naturally shines a light outwards- not only guiding them onwards, but also attracting others.

Many people noticed this light in these particular individuals, and started to investigate this idea of becoming Raw for themselves. And for a decade now, many of us have been raw. The effects of changing our diet, our personal standards about not only food and nutrition, but also the ethos and ethics of our choices, and the consequences socially- for many of us have been profound. Some have found their purpose. Some have regained their health. Some have been released of the burden of excess weight or addictions. Some have reversed disease. The list goes on and on of the (more…)

GODDESSES IN EVERY WOMAN

Monday, February 22nd, 2010 by admin

4332556145_09faf62b34_mEven though I have been running rawmom for quite a while behind the scenes already, now that I am officially the owner, it feels like a thrilling but daring adventure, and I feel excited and nervous! I do not consider myself a business woman. I identify with one role, my calling, being a mom. However, I’ve have heard that people born under my sign in both the Western and Chinese horoscopes make good leaders and can lead successful enterprises, and as my children are growing up, it’s the perfect time for me to gradually transition back out into the world…I’d like to believe I can learn what I need to, and attract people to help me. If am to grow to the corners of my potential as a fully realised woman, as well as facilitate my mission to make a difference, I must have courage. I feel alot of changes coming…it started with changing my name from Shannon to Shakaya, and even endowing myself with a second name, one of the elements, Breeze. I didn’t consciously choose these names, they seemed to just find me.

The archetypal images of the Goddess come to mind. When I interviewed Susun Weed for WISH, I asked her which Goddess archetype she most identified with and she said for a long time it was Artemis, autonomous Goddess of the Hunt, Nature, Birth, a protector plants and animals and a Super Sexy Virgin who never bowed to the rule of any man. Powerful! I have always been fascinated by Goddess archetypes since reading ‘Goddesses in Every Woman’ when I was in my 20’s and later work by Caroline Myss. Here are some of the archetypes as described by Myss whom I have identified with- perhaps you will see yourself in some of these- and some others whom I feel the desire to connect more deeply with so as to draw from their well for my growth and expansion that I feel is needed now:

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4 Easy Steps to a Self-Pampering Home Spa

Tuesday, February 2nd, 2010 by admin

Hi my loves! I had the best time ever on a recent mini-detox and want to share with you the keys to my success so you can experience them for yourself and REV UP your own Mama Mojo, namely: have MORE energy, softer, smoother skin, a flatter tummy, deeper more restful sleep, and experience a nice break from even having to think about trying not to eat at nightime if that is an issue for you (which I have made the commitment to accomplish this year!)

So what is the best way to get started?

Here’s what I like to do to set the tone and get me super motivated:

STEP #1 Repeat THE UNIVERSE IS MADLY IN LOVE WITH ME

Doesn’t that feel amazing already?

STEP #2 DECIDE when and HOW LONG you will go.

I like between 3 and 11 days, although I did do a 33 day juice feast last year which was amazing. Next, decide WHAT kind of program you are most into doing.

For example: A juice feast of all fresh pressed veggie juices.

Or perhaps the Master Cleanser which only consists of pure water, fresh squeezed lemons, cayenne pepper and some sweetener like stevia, agave or honey (I personally don’t use any sweetener when I do this, buuuut that doesn’t mean you can skip this. I have been raw for 8 years and have fasted for many years before that and have experience with fasting, and also I have no blood sugar issues and can go for days without any sugar in any form and not feel weak or shaky or have headaches. PLEASE do not even attempt the MC unless you are really healthy and ready on all levels.)

Personally, my favourite thing to recommend to people starting out is a few days on Green Smoothies because they are so convenient- which means easy to stick to and succeed with- and so nourishing which is what most people really need. Stripping away toxins is a demanding job and most people are so deficient as it is, nutritionally and energetically. This is why I also do HERBAL INFUSIONS and decotions and other elixirs and will be doing a couple of programs here on rawmom with Daniel Vitalis and Susun Weed (who is also a guest speaker for WISH www.wishsummit.com) so you can learn how to make your own healing drinks.

STEP #3

When it is a day or so before the scheduled commencement date of your little detox diet, get rid of anything in your house that would seriously tempt you. Times might get a little tough and you don’t need the extra pressure. Set yourself up to succeed and don’t skip this important step.

STEP #4

I like this one. I put up on my fridge a piece of paper listing down the side all the days that I have planned for my detox, like this:

DAY 1~

DAY 2~

DAY 3~ etc…

…and that way I have a visual cue which serves not only as a reminder but also encouragement. Each day I tick off at bedtime as well as writing down throughout the day what and when I drank my smoothies or juices or whatever, including how much water I drank that day. You may also wish to chart your bowel movements, your sleep pattern, any symptoms that crop up, along with the healing modalities I am going to suggest you take advantage of using during your special customized program you are creating.

NETI POT

neti-potThis is a little ceramic (there are plastic ones too for travel) that looks like a little white tea pot without a lid. This a nasal irrigation device based on Auyervedic tradition that helps with sinus problems or allergies. I don’t have either problems- maybe that is because of my healthy diet, or maybe its because I use my neti pot. I only use it once in a while though, unless I’m doing a cleanse, then every other day. It’s super easy to use. You fill it up with warm water and a small amount of ground sea salt and ensure that the salt is dissolved. Then tip the spout into one nostril as you lean over the bathroom sink, and just allow the water to travel along the nasal passage and flow out the other nostril.

I like to place a little bit of sesame (unroasted) oil, or plain olive oil or even coconut butter on the tip of my ring finger and gently coat the inside of my nostrils AFTERWARDS which acts as a barrier is soothing. I recall Dr Dean mentioning the benefits of this in her wonderful Doctor of the Future 50 week health program where she gives all kinds of little great health information…so I have been doing it ever since when I neti pot, though I can’t exactly remember why! The feeling of clarity and sense of well-being is the result.

OIL PULLING

I heard about this from Tonya Zavasta while reading her e-book called TEETH; Tonya is one of our guests for the exciting world-wide event coming this Spring called WISH Women’s International Summit for Health. Go now and register- It’s FREE!

tonya-picOil pulling is another ancient Auyervedic system that is used to remove toxins from the body by way of the saliva. Swishing about a tablespoon or 2 into your mouth for about 15 minutes first thing in the morning on an empty stomach is all it takes. You do not gargle with the oil, just vigorously swish it around in your mouth while you open the mail or file your nails or whatever multi-tasking you like, and then spit out into the sink and rinse. It is apparently good for just about every condition known. The theory is that it exerts a powerful detoxification effect on the entire body through picking up germs and bacteria in our mouth and even beyond by pulling them through the mucous membranes in the mouth from the body. These toxins enter our saliva through a process of enzymatic action in the bloodstream and are drawn up and eventually out of our body with the oil that captures them. Never swallow the oil as it becomes toxic. And the key with this as with most health practices is consistency. Apparently, it is really effective. I am doing it several times a week and am enjoying it. Use cold pressed organic sesame oil (un-roasted) or Olive or coconut oil. This is an act of self love.

TONGUE SCRAPING

compromised-teeth-picYou are already doing this daily I hope. It’s as simple as taking a spoon and scraping your tongue to remove excess film that is loaded with bacteria and plaque building micro-organisms. I use an actual device called a tongue scraper that I got from the Health food store and that and brushing/flossing my teeth first thing in the morning is the KEY to me waking up my body-temple in the morning and feeling ready to face the day. Oral hygiene is so important. I have a heart condition which makes it even more so, but anyone will add years to their life if they take good care here. That is an actual fact. Affirm when you do it ‘I enjoy taking care of my self.’

CASTOR OIL PACK

I used to highly recommend this to people when I was a Colon Hydro Therapist, and its great for anyone who wishes to assist their own bowel cleanse whether they are doing colonics or enemas or not. Taking a break from eating solids and nourishing yourself with liquids for a few days weeks or even months (check with your doctor or health practitioner first) really helps most people get more in tune with their bodies. Using castor oil packs can really help soften impacted fecal matter that can build up in people who are not moving their bowels enough. Most people are constipated but don’t realise it. Ideally, we would move our bowels shortly after eating or ingesting food due to what is called peristalsis- and wave action of the bowel that moves everything along stimulated by the act of eating. Therefore, if you eat 3 times a day, ideally you would have waste eliminated 3 times a day too. Most people do not even move their bowels once a day! Imagine the build up inside. This can cause prolapsed colons which also produce protruding bellies. I do a massage for my colon when I am lying down and I can feel what is going on there.

A castor oil back is done when you have at least 20 minutes or more to rest. You take the castor oil and pour about ½ c onto a folded wool or cotton piece of fabric and place that on your tummy. Place a towel underneath you so in case of dripping. Then place plastic wrap on top of the pad, then a little hand towl on top of that. Finally a hot water bottle or heating pad on top of the towel. Just rest and relax and let the process do its thing. People find this deeply relaxing and effective and often have wonderful and satisfying bowel movements later that day or next day that are very comfortable and substantial. Mmmmm, relaxation is so pleasurable…

ENEMAS/COLONICS

This is a controversial modality for some. However, if done properly, I believe it is very safe and effective. I am not going to explain in detail because this is really something you need to read up on if you haven’t had either one already. What I will say is that by allowing water into the lower part of the colon through a rubber hose which enter the rectum, the water creates peristalsis and helps wash out the bowel of trapped gas, mucous, parasites like tapeworms, and old, impacted fecal matter. I know some people do these regularly, but I don’t recommend that at all. I do think it is a good idea whenever you are doing a cleanse, every other day or a few times per week. It really depends on you. There are so many myths about this such as its addictive, or it will cause your natural peristalsis to disappear or it strips out all your good intestinal flora, etc. I am not going to explain here why these are inaccurate because my intention isn’t to teach a class about intestinal irrigation so much as just letting you know what tools exist, which ones I personally believe are effective for most people, and allowing you to do due diligence and research anything you aren’t familiar with if it resonates with you.

I personally haven’t felt the need to do colonics for several years now and would only do an enema a couple times a week while on a cleanse. They aren’t as effective as colonics, but I am so in tune with my body that I can hold in enough water and actually feel it moving not only in the lower bowel but also along the transverse colon and down into the ascending colon right to my cecum where the large and small intestine meet. I enjoy being in tune with my organs.

BAREFOOT WALKS

snow-fun-webOOOOoooOOoO I LOVE THIS ONE! Our feet contain many meridians of energy that are stimulated and activated when we walk barefoot which help discharge Electromagnetic Pollution as well as invigorate all the organs which correspond to the reflex points on the soles of the feet. I started doing this several years into my raw life as I noticed I naturally felt so much stronger and heartier especially in the cold weather and even winter snow. I have recently learned that my natural urge to be barefoot is actually a true health practice which people like David Wolfe and Daniel Vitalis have been sharing a lot about recently. This is my 4th year and I have to say its such a pleasure to go barefoot out in Nature. Please do it with extreme mindfulness if you wish to try it. I don’t recommend doing it in urban areas. Learn to step with care and confidence. Love your feet, love your journey.

DEEP BREATHING

Like green smoothies, and veggie juices, deep breathing is not only detoxifying, but also so nourishing. Isn’t it amazing how shallow we normally breathe? Its good to be reminded to take deep breathes throughout the day. I do this at night time with my children. It sets off a yawning symphony and really does help us relaxxxxxx.

MASSAGE AND GET MASSAGE

There are deep healing benefits to touching and stroking our children and partners, and having them reciprocate. The power of touch is well known but under utilized. I love to cuddle with each of my boys for a few minutes at bedtime and we also like to give full body hugs throughout the day. If you don’t have time or energy left for sex with your mate or are not in a relationship, touching people be it our friends or family, is extremely healthy and healing. Stroking the hair, playing footisies under the table, light head massages….find ways to touch and be touched more, for health and pleasure!

I hope you enjoy some of the fun and healing methods I typically use on a cleanse that I’ve outlined here. I would love to know which ones YOU use, these or others.

Enjoy your SPA Days.

You are worth it!

Blissings xoxoxoShakaya

“Coconut Kids” Smoothie & Keeping Cool

Monday, January 25th, 2010 by admin

by Joanne Newell

Delia & Lana Raizon

Hello everyone! A belated Happy New Year to you – has your 2010 started off well? Don’t you love the start of a fresh new year?

It’s been hot, hot, hot here in Melbourne. Well, some days it’s hot, some days it’s chilly – and it can be four season in one day in this lovely city!

To keep cool, we’ve been whipping up some ice-cold drinks, including a phenomenal smoothie created by an amazing Aussie mum called Delia Raizon. Delia writes recipe books with her sister, Lana (their latest book was published by The Five Mile Press, who also publishes my books in Australia), and Delia has posted a few high-raw recipe videos on the “Lana & Delia Raizon” website.

You’ve gotta check out the videos – SO cute, and inspiring. Delia’s at the start of a raw journey, and I just love that there’s another voice out there promoting the health benefits and taste of green smoothies and high-raw foods to Australian families.

You can see Delia’s “Coconut Kids” smoothie video here, but if you’d like to give it a go, here’s the recipe itself:

Coconut Kids Smoothie

Ingredients

  • 1 young Thai drinking coconut
  • 5 frozen bananas (if your blender isn’t powerful, you might need to chop the bananas before freezing)
  • 3 or so pitted dates, soaked, with the soaking water
  • 2 handfuls soaked almonds
  • extra water
  • ice cubes

Method

  1. Tip the flesh and juice from the coconut into a blender.
  2. Add the frozen bananas, pitted dates (and their soaking water) and almonds, and blend.
  3. Add extra water and ice and blend to achieve your desired consistency.

This smoothie has become a favorite at our house!

In our continuing quest to keep cool on these dreamy, long summer holidays, the girls and I have also been whipping up a few treats from Ani’s Raw Food Desserts (by Ani Phyo), including “Chocolate-Covered Bananas” (choc-coated frozen bananas on skewers, found on page 77 of the book) and “Key Lime Kream Bars” (page 25).

Surprisingly, when making the banana ice lollies, the kitchen didn’t become covered in chocolate – most of it actually went on the bananas (or into little – and big – mouths). The girls weren’t quite so keen on the kream bars, but I adore them, and have been cutting off little wedges every now and then as a zesty, creamy snack.

I’ve yet to try out the enticing-sounding “Raspberry-Ganache Fudge Cake”, which Raw Mom Shannon tried when Ani’s book first came out. Can’t wait to sample that one. Thanks, Ani, for such a beautiful little book!

If you’re after some lively raw inspiration, I highly recommend Ani’s book, and popping over to Delia and Lana’s website.

Take care, everyone, and hug your babies!

Love Jo

DO YOU KNOW WHAT TO DO IF YOUR KIDS GET SICK?

Saturday, October 3rd, 2009 by Lisa

Hmmmm, does the very thought make your heart beat a little faster?
None of us relish the thought of our little lovebuds getting sick, but knowing exactly what to do really helps. I have found since we are high-raw for 8 years now, this isn’t even an issue. It is soooo rare to see my kids less than bubbling little energy balls! Both my sons have only been sick a couple of times in their entire lives, and judging by friends and family, they are experiencing unprecedented health. It is not all about the food, but the food is the foundation and actually helps to create other little changes here and there which also add to the increased quality of health in a big way. This is a fundamental drive of mine- to just allow them a childhood of freedom from pain and illness as much as possible so they can always remember what real health feels like, as most people no longer know for themselves…

I myself was always sick as a kid, became a very sick teenager, and had bottomed-out before I was 30. Now, in my mid-forties, I feel so strong and healthy, and its an incredible feeling to have never worrying about my health anymore.

Here are my tried and true tips for preventing issues, or maintaining superb health.

AT FIRST SIGNS

shannon-son-1Whether you notice a runny nose, little cough, or just red eyes, these are all signs that your angel might be coming down with something. I have never taken my children’s temperature other than with the palm of my hand on their face, yet as soon as I feel a fever coming on, or any sign that they might be run-down, I stop everything for a moment and think about the last few days, what has been happening in their reality. Have they been staying up late, getting behind in sleep? Has there been celebrations and other functions where they have been eating differently than usual? Has there been any emotional stresses for them lately? Maybe ther is something going onthat they are anxious about…Just reflecting about their SLEEP, DIET and EMOTIONS gives me just about everything I need to know to understand what has been the catalyst for their physical symptoms.

liam-and-leopy-smallI do not give any fever medication as I know the fever is ‘burning off’ any little critters and is actually a sign their immune system is functional. To thwart this natural response by giving ‘fever medication’ only serves to reduce the SYMPTOMS and their discomfort, but doesn’t strengthen the body. I like the discomfort! Otherwise, they are still running around when what they obviously need is rest. There are natural ways to keep a fever in check, and still allow the body to let Nature take its course; a cool cloth to the forehead, a cool bath in the tub or sponge bath, wearing wet woollen socks that have some lemon juice or lemon essential oil in the water wrapped in a towel while lying in bed, all these methods work to help the fever stay in safe range while it is doing its work.

TAKE ACTION

shannons-drinksStep 1:
The next thing I do is create a space with my child for some mama-and-me time, where we can sit and ‘chat’. I ask them how they are feeling, and let them tell me all about what is going on with them, how it all feels for them. I just be there and just create a cozy moment with them, gathering essential details before rushing in with any talk or solutions. They feel heard and met, and their healing has already begun.

Step 2:

I know the body needs rest when it is unwell- illness is Nature’s command for silence and stillness, gentleness and peace. I create an environment either in the living room or their bedroom where they can rest which is tranquil and beautiful- clean and clutter-free, aired out, fresh flowers or even a little vase with a pretty little branch of leaves or tall grasses, and/or a candle. I always keep essential oils on hand for my cleaning, skin-care and even raw culinary preparations, and my favourite is always Lavender for an anxious or sick child. It is so soothing and relaxing and healing. Another I love is Clary Sage as it is ultra soothing when one is not feeling well. Just find one you like that is not over stimulating. However, if there is flem or infected sinuses or congestion, then Rosemary or Eucalyptus or Ravensara are great. The main idea here is to create an atmosphere of calm and comfort.

Step 3:

Serve only water, lemon/ginger tea, or fresh juices- usually cucumber with some fresh orange juice or apple- something simple and sweet so they will drink some. They may not want any, but to avoid dehydration, especially with fevers or flu, getting regular sips into them is important.

Avoid eating food as it takes a lot of energy needed for healing. Unless they are really hungry, then fruit, fresh or mashed up is great, or a healing broth of veggies and garlic and onions and herbs. The main thing here is not to clog up the system and forestall healing.

Step 4:

Avoid over-stimulation- which is one of the reasons they may be under-the-weather already. This means, no media TV/video games/computer time. Lots of rest, eyes closed, laying down, will help rally their vital forces and speed up healing. With really young kids I would suggest you take little naps with them or create lots of opportunity for ‘cuddle time’ with a book or story just to get them still, and that will often induce peaceful sleep, or at least rest. A little Classical music, or just humming/singing quietly to our little lams, is soothing and healing. Short walks to get some fresh air is really good as long as it doesn’t over-tax them, or at least, keep a window open. Offering to massage their feet or rub their back, or stroke their hair may be really appreciated.

SORE THROATS

Could be Strep Throat which is caused by bacteria called Streptococcus or a sign that chicken pox or the measles might be on the way. If you do feel it is worth taking an anti-biotic for, ensure to give the child plenty of Probiotic capsules in his food or drinks to replace his good bacteria that will be killed off.
A scratchy, sore throat is soothed with the following:

- warm drinks: lemon/ginger and honey tea

- fresh juices: a simple mixture of ¼ greens and the rest fresh orange, apple,   pear or pineapple juice

- chewable zinc lozenges with Vit C

- Slippery Elm Bark powder- take 1T and dissolve into hot water with some honey for a really soothing tea to the inflamed throat

- Keep a little pot of boiling water in the room if you don’t have a humidifier to add steam into the air (maybe with a few drops of Eucalyptus) and help moisten the dry tissues of throat and nose

- Herbal Honey- by the teaspoon or in teas: add a drop of essential oils (must be organic, pure and food grade) SAGE, EUCALYPTUS, MINT to a couple teaspoons of honey and mix thoroughly before giving to your child

COLDS

The main thing here is to avoid further congestion of the liver or bowels as the system is already clogged up, so avoid:

- eating and especially over-eating

- cooked starches, flesh foods, sugar, dairy

- keep a little pot of boiling water in the room if you don’t have a humidifier to add steam into the air (maybe with a few drops of Eucalyptus) and help moisten the dry tissues of throat and nose

- Get lots of fluids into kids, and maybe some nice warm garlic laden vegetable broths

- Gargle with warm salt water with a drop of Oregeno Oil

- use a Netti Pot (most children won’t do this)

- put a little cocnut butter or sesame oil in the inside of the nostrils

- Homeopathics: Belladonna; Arsenicum; Aconite; Antimonium tartaricum.

EARACHES

I have had the experience when I was a nanny for a house with 6 kids of being woken in the middle of the night to screams from little ones suffering from intense ear pain. Here is what works like a charm and its best if you have this on hand so you don’t have to keep your child waiting while you make it:

Garlic Oil - put a few cloves of peeled garlic into a few ounces of Olive Oil and let infuse for a week. Then remove the cloves and place the oil into fridge. All you need to do is warm up the whole jar by placing it into hot water for a couple minutes and then when it is liquid again and warm (not hot! Make sure to test before putting into your child’s ear) take a teaspoon full of the oil and have the child lie down on her side with a towel under her head, and slowly tip the oil into her ear. Have a cotton ball ready to catch the excess.

If you haven’t this on hand and an earache strikes, do this:

Peel a clove of garlic and juice it then put into a few Ounces of Olive oil and stir around. Put about ½ a teaspoon into your child’s ear as above.

You can buy in the Health Food store a little dropper bottle of a preparation already made up with garlic, oil and Lobelia herb which works too and is convenient.

- Homeopathics include Aconite, Hepar Sulph

STOMACH UPSET

It seems obvious that the body is trying to tell us not to eat right now. It needs a rest. Simple, easily digested nourishment and calm is mostly needed here. Replenish fluids if vomiting or diarrhea.

MOST IMPORTANTLY

Whatever ails your child, what helps them the very most is if you are calm and centered, content and secure. This will set a mood and will reassure them that everything will soon be back to normal again and before they know it they will be all better. Walk and talk gently and calm, and keep your voice hushed and relaxed. It’s a time of quietude and healing and your presence will support that more than anything else.

Let’s teach our kids how our bodies speak to us…and that any pain, illness or discomfort is our body’s way of getting our attention and letting us know what we need. Sometimes, getting sick is our way of creating a time of rest, or a space of love for ourselves. (ILL=I lack love) Sometimes it is a simple reaction to foods that aren’t healthy, or perhaps an unsettled emotional conflict.

This is just what I do, and I hope it might offer some insight, and is not meant to be medical advice. If you are worried, and you know your child better than anyone, then by all means seek advice from your Naturopathic or medical health practitioner. Whatever the issue, keeping a little medicine chest of Homeopathic Remedies, Bach Flower Remedies, healing Herbals like Echinacea, garlic, slippery Elm Bark, etc., and Essential Oils with a companion guide is so helpful here. The better informed we are, the more empowered we feel.

Shannon Shakaya Breeze Leone

A Clutter-Free Kitchen (Better for you, and your child’s I.Q.)

Tuesday, September 8th, 2009 by Lisa

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Ahhhhhh, the carefree frolic that is summer is closing in… for some of us busy moms September means BACK TO SCHOOL for the kidlets and back to productivity for US. I’ll miss those perfect lazy reading/painting/ hiking/ biking/ friend’s visiting/ lollygagging/ beach days…Well, everything has its season, and we are into gearing up for a new one..! What if I told you investing just 3 hours could translate into time and money savings, stress-reduction and even making your kids smarter…Would you be curious? It’s a fact that a clean and clutter-free environment reflects a logical and clear mind. I devote a section to this in my DVD RAISING CHILDREN RAISES US Studies show that just streamlining workspace increases productivity. It stands to reason that if we allow extraneous ’stuff’ to accumulate around us in our homes, cars, desks etc., that we will be wasting effort either dealing with it, or avoiding dealing with it. This is stressful and undermines us whether we are conscious of this or not. Below are 3 simple steps anyone can use to empower themselves and their family. Let’s start with the kitchen TODAY! Systematically we can work each room of the house eventually getting to every drawer and surface. INSTANT GRATIFICATION- You’ll see!

STEP 1~ Approximately 1 HOUR

SEARCH AND DESTROY

The kitchen is the Heart of the Home and is such a hub of activity it is natural to need some shaping up once in a while. Start with the fridge and food cupboards, and then work to the dishes cupboards, drawers and under the sink. With a large garbage bag for what gets tossed on one side and a box for what gets passed on, decide on what stays by keeping only what you actually USE.

Free yourself of unwanted, unnecessary stuff and let the rest go!

HAPPY RAWMOM USEFUL TIP: ORGANIZATION CREATES INSPIRATION!

STEP 2~ Approximately 1 HOUR

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DON’T LET YOUR MESS MESS WITH YOU Already the process of establishing who is in control has begun here and you will notice the ecstasy of being Master of the Mess…It is similar to the ‘runner’s high’! LOL With excess stuff gone its time to wipe all the areas clean with hot soapy water and nicely arrange what is left. Next, deal with all the extra dishes and appliances, table linens and accessories. I used to entertain my husband’s large family a lot and they influenced how I set up my home…But over time, I realised it wasn’t really my style…we don’t just own our things- they OWN US because it takes time and effort managing it all. I believe the woman sets the tone in her relationship with her man and in the home, and she needs to feel gooood! Being a wife and mom and homemaker is sacred work, and she needs to set her workspace up in a way that creates FLOW and EASE. So I got rid of ALL that excess stuff and paired it all down to a few extra dishes for company, and our 4 wooden bowls, plates and cutlery that my family normally uses. I let my kids know that they each have 1 fork, spoon, cup, bowl and plate and that they ‘get’ to take care of it because it is theirs. So they wash and dry and put their dishes away after using them and PRESTO! Waaaaaaaay less work for me!

HAPPY RAWMOM USEFUL TIP: USE YOUR IMAGINATION AND SENSE OF DISCOVERY

ORGANISE AND BEAUTIFY TO YOUR HEART’S CONTENT

I’ll admit I was NOT organised and on top of things before having children; my husband’s efficient and tidy ways have rubbed off! I recall the panic I routinely created for myself in my single days like for instance when I was moving to HONG KONG for a year and packed the night before! Sheesh. Needless to say I was up all night looking for things last minute, left a huge mess behind, actually missed my flight- I was a disaster! I have found it is much less stressful to take bits of time and energy here and there to cultivate a ‘place for everything and everything in its place’ than constantly flying by the seat of my pants. If I can do this, ANYONE CAN! And don’t get me wrong, I still enjoy and seem to need some chaotic and random outlets for my creative juices to flow…now I allow that in my art and writing and adventures with the clan~ not my work spaces. Once you have pared down and retained only what is truly useful and necessary, it is time to organise yourself in a way that is not only functionally but aesthetically pleasing to you. Beauty elevates the spirit and that is what we need in our kitchen, office and laundry room or any place a lot of WORK happens. You will feel these areas are more inviting and pleasing to work in without all the draining mess and clutter. And for goodness sake, don’t be a Martyr -  ask your tribe to pitch in; they are great at sorting and filling jars and tossing stuff- in fact they can be really helpful in assisting you because they are less attached to the stuff and will encourage you to ‘just chuck it!’. Plus, they will feel great about contributing!

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HAPPY RAWMOM USEFUL TIP: KEEP THINGS YOU NEED ACCESSIBLE AND IN VIEW

I have found after being RAW for so long now, certain chaos and sabotaging habits just fall away. As much as we want to ‘cleanse and purify’ our bodies, this naturally starts to happen in our environments around us too. A little trick I picked up along the way is to store food in glass so not only can I see what is there, its not porous like plastic is and is easier to keep my cupboards tidy and uniform. I make GREEN SMOOTHIES, GREEN JUICES, HERBAL INFUSIONS and SALADS everyday, so I organize my kitchen in a way which facilitates all that. My BLENDER and JUICER and knifes and cutting boards are always on the countertops within easy access; so is my CD player so I can enjoy music while I work. However YOU prepare your family’s meals is up to you and so only YOU know what you need your kitchen to look like for you to feel happy and productive there. Take a little time to set yourself up for long-term success; save time and money and effort, cut down on waste, allow yourself to think clearly and work unfettered by creating the space you want to work in~ IN-JOY!

COLLECTING NATURAL SPRING WATER

Thursday, September 3rd, 2009 by Lisa

I have never met Daniel Vitalis, but I feel I know him.  I was fortunate to interview him for this blog months back, and then again for the RAW MOM SUMMIT, and his warmth, passion and sincerity are palpable.  He is a wealth of great information and ancient knowledge; I would even say wisdom.  If you haven’t already, you can youtube his name and see his videos.  They are always inspiring.  And of course, check out the incredible work of Dr Masaru Emoto and his beautiful water crystals that  react to the words like GRATITUDE.

He has a lot to say about raw food, air, barefeet connections, and health sovereignty.  He is especially known for his insights on WATER.  He only ever drinks Spring water that he has collected himself.  He has also set up a site called FIND A SPRING so everyone can post any Spring they know of so others can find one close to them.

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I can’t believe that I am in my mid-forties and have never done this before!  I just ‘trusted’ bottled water.  Now after being nearly 8 years RAW, I am finally realizing that as important as my raw diet is, it just isn’t complete without good quality water.  Water makes up 70-80% of our being, and our planet.  Daniel feels water is even MORE critical than food and he is correct because we can survive longer on water and would perish faster without water.

After talking with Daniel I was determined to find a Spring.  I put the word out to everyone in my neighbourhood.  Finally, a herbalist named Tamara WhiteWolfe told me of one about an hour away so I packed up the kidlets and my huge glass bottles (that I purchased from a wine store) and off we went hunting for this water!  Alas, we couldn’t find it…As disappointed as we all were, I knew this was a temporary set-back.  I was showing my husband one of Daniel’s vids (my husband has little time so I hold up my lap top while he is shaving or dressing and ensure he gets up to speed on these things LOL) and suddenly he noticed a side-video that had the name of a town close to us.  So sure enough, it was the one Tamara was referring to.  My husband drove us there that day as we happened to be heading out of town ‘coincidentally’ (of course there are no coincidences) and we FOUND IT!

lovely spring11The really strange thing was that it smelled.  Reeeeeeally bad.  I spoke to the people in line there collecting their water, and many of them had been going to this Spring for 10-20 years!  Apparently the town tests the water regularly too.  So despite the awful sulphur smell (rotten eggs) I filled a bottle and took a sip.  It tasted weird.  I took two more sips, trying to get in tune with the water.  But my stomach said ‘stop’.  I just couldn’t drink this water!

How sad.  Well, there must be another one that doesn’t have this peculiar odour and taste, and I just know we will find it.  We will be guided…

mama and sumac22I noticed my hubs talking with a homeless man who was collecting his water in a small plastic water bottle that looked really worn.  He had dark, sun-leathered skin, and twinkly blue eyes that were just beautiful.  My husband and son were handing him some money.  I saw his face light-up and tears well in his eyes.  I went over and asked him how he liked the water and we got to talking…and then I said to him ‘You must know this area pretty well…any other Springs around here?’

He seemed to relish my question and jumped on his bike and told us to follow him in our car.  Within 10 minutes he led us to another Spring!  And guess what??? NO smell.  No funny taste.  This water was super COLD!  And DELICIOUS!

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What a gem he was!  Blessings on your journey Mr Blue Eyes…

I asked my friend Wayne Gendel who is a water specialist and raw fooder for over 15 years to test the water and it is amazingly clean.  I figured as much,  as the temperature alone must keep bacteria count down.  Daniel told me these Springs are connected to underground Aquifers which could be thousands of years old and are pure and pristine.

This water is all my family drinks now.  I make all my HERBAL INFUSIONS and GREEN SMOOTHIES with it too, and even wash my hair and face in it.

It’s such a blissing.  Really magical…Whatever water you are drinking, please bless it with your prayers and intentions because LOVE is the Universal solvent and will transform everything!

Shannon Shakaya Breeze Leone

FORAGING FOR WILD EDIBLES IN NATURE'S BANQUET

Wednesday, August 19th, 2009 by Lisa

My husband and I are serious about cutting down on food bills, and we have found a couple of ways that are easy and fun~ SPROUTING, GARDENING and FORAGING. You all know how to sprout and grow food for pennies right on your counter tops, right?

ShakayaBreeze-StreamIt’s so easy-peasy there is no excuse not to try it. I love to grow delicious broccoli/garlic/lentil/alfalfa micro greens. I used to grow ’sunnies’ and buckwheat greens and wheatgrass with the trays of soil, but my smaller house doesn’t permit the space required, so we buy those now. Also, simple and nutritious sprouts that I regularly grow are buckwheat and oat groats that make beautiful raw porridges with fresh berries, and cinnamon. Also, I do sunflower seeds and almonds to germinate them and make them more digestible. We also have a garden for our greens and tomatoes and herbs and garlic. I’m no expert, but every year we are learning a little more, and it’s a great way to supplement our grocery budget for all the salads and green smoothies that we consume.

But the most fun of all is foraging for wild edibles. Reading about the Boutenko’s hiking adventures 7 years ago really inspired me. Igor would bravely test out new found plants along the trail before his family would eat any. But I didn’t know how to get started with 2 very little ones on our short hiking expeditions (my hubs wasn’t into raw much then and was away at work while I was with the kids)…avo-the-famI really couldn’t just experiment on myself…Over the years I have gone on many wild walks with herbalists and dear friends like Shantree Kacera and David Wolfe, reading and studying their works along with Susun Weed and taking courses here and there, plus buying some helpful books and field guides…so I am feeling more confident.

My husband travels in his work (he builds massive waterfall systems on large estates and pieces of land) and is always outdoors, so he hunts around for wild edible flowers, roots, leaves, grasses and berries and brings them home. We enjoy making teas and soups and smoothies and salads from all his harvests. A favourite has to be wild Day Lillies which are those big orange flowers that taste like plums with a spicy after taste- very exotic. We used to always forage for wild asparagus because they are so easy to spot and we knew they weren’t toxic. But now we have ventured into things like sumac, golden rod, St John’s Wort (David Wolfe calls these ‘happy flowers’ because they are a proven antidote to depression) mullen, burdock, and many other local weeds. My husband recently brought home some hardened spruce tree resin that when you sucked it and softened it, it turned bright purple and became like a chewing gum that lasted all day!

You can see more great photos if you find me on Facebook and click on my album FORAGING FOR WILD EDIBLES.

The other day our youngest got stung in the face on the lip. It quickly swelled up 4x its size. Fortunately, I knew about a handy common weed called PLANTAIN which is fantastic for bites and stings. I found some not even 6′ away, immediately chewed it up into a paste and applied it to the area. Within minutes the pain subsided. When Liam didn’t stop crying I asked what was wrong and he said with big eyes full of tears “the poor bee lost its life and there is nothing we can do about it”…well, plantain is a miracle, but not that good!

Next post: COLLECTING YOUR OWN NATURAL SPRING WATER

Xo Raw Mom Shannon

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