Soul Temple Newsletter

2011-05-09T13:40:00.000+10:00

Greetings!!

School holidays are over! Hallelujuah!! Funny how just before the holidays I am sooo looking forward to them... sleeping in (what a joke!!), spending quality time with my gorgeous li’l cherubs, taking a break from the manic school morning (“Come on, it’s time to get up, sweetheart; Come on, it’s time to get up; Come on, get up; Get up; GET OUT OF BED NOW!!!) and then once they are here I can hardly wait for them to be over. It’s kinda like Xmas in that sense. Anyway I did have a nice break spending a lovely Easter weekend with some family in Bowral, drinking wine around the fire in the backyard, meditating at Fitzroy Falls and having coffee in the main street.

I know it was a rather contentious issue but the heap of scrap metal has gone down in Avoca Beach. I must admit I didn’t want it going down (I’ve been telling my kids for years you just don’t throw your rubbish in the ocean) and donated quite a number of massages to the No Ship group for their fundraising effort. I did go down to watch the hoop-la and was so glad someone bothered to spend the $5 on the firecrackers and coloured smoke or it would have been even more boring than it was. I liked the writing in the sky “shame shame” and just loved the dolphins’ last ditch efforts to halt the sinking... God love them :)

Hope you are all making the most of the sun when it’s out. Remember it is important for your Vitamin D intake, especially those of us who tend to feel a bit flat/depressed over the cold part of the year. Make sure you are getting your Vitamin C intake with oranges and mandarins, and even half a lemon in warm water first thing in the morning will give you some vitamin C and also kick start your digestion.

Happy reading,

Allison

Europe Bans Hundreds of Herbal Remedies

2011-05-09T13:38:00.004+10:00

A law to ban hundreds of herbs has now been approved in Europe. The reason for this, the governing bodies say, is to regulate the industry and to protect consumers. Certain herbs will not be able to be bought over the counter and will have to be prescribed by 'regulated' herbalists.

It sounds great that authorities are worried about your health but lets put things in perspective. According to the US National Poison Data System there were no deaths from herbs in 2008. Nor were there any deaths from vitamins and minerals. On the other hand modern medicine, according to Dr Gary Null and his medical researchers in their 'Death by Medicine' report, is responsible for almost 800,000 deaths per year... in the U.S alone !!! For the full report have a look at http://www.whale.to/a/null9.html. You'll be very surprised. Not just at the number of deaths but also the amount of money that is being wasted.

In this age where we have access to so much information and education regarding our health we are being treated like idiots. Why? Why are they banning herbs that cause no damage when taken as recommended? I think it's because Big Pharma is worried about losing the monopoly it now has in the market. More and more people are using natural medicine. More people are questioning and taking responsibility for their own health. Herbs, vitamins and minerals cannot be patented so there is little money to be made from them. Big Pharma is about making money... and boy, do they make heaps of it!

Some interesting links:
Quarter-Million Doctor-Induced Deaths Annually
2009 in review: A year of FDA censorship & Big Pharma crimes
Doctor Yourself

Please find 7mins to watch this video...

Glued Meat

2011-05-09T13:34:00.002+10:00

Another shocking expose in the meat industry.... You may be eating glue with your steak.

Some meat producers are deceptively selling off-cuts of meat, that would be too small to sell, and 'gluing' them together to then sell off as normal sized, full portions. The 'glue' is made from an enzyme known as transglutaminase and is so toxic that people working with it must wear gloves and masks. But it's ok to put in your belly? No... Transglutaminase can cause food poisoning and the bacterial contamination of glued meats is one hundred times higher than quality cuts of meat.

Transglutaminase has been banned in Europe and Japan but is still known to be in use here in Australia. Unfortunately, food labelling laws do not require this glue to be mentioned on labels so you, the consumer, can never be sure whether or not the portion of meat you are consuming is held together by this toxic substance or not.

According to Today/Tonight (yes, that reputable current affairs program ;) ) it appears that restaurants are one of the main culprits who use glued meat which means you may not be getting that sumptuous bit of quality meat you are paying for. Catering companies are another group guilty of passing off this substandard meat. Obviously most people don't ask the chef or waitress about ingredients when ordering (though I believe we should) and who can really be bothered making a fuss about what you are being served up at your best mates wedding? Today Tonight made claims that places such as Sizzler and Lone Star use these glued meats and mentioned that if you have been to any catered events, weddings or balls lately chances are you have been eating this toxic poison. In fact, glued meat has been used for the last decade!

Again, this shows big business and industry deceiving the consumer to make bigger profits. And it's allowed! It's bad enough that 'quality' meat is already treated with antibiotics, preservatives, colours and contaminated with pesticides, now there is another toxin added. It is up to you, the consumer, to be health-wise and vigilant about what you purchase. Meat is expensive and western countries eat far too much of it, hence the high rates of cancer and heart disease. Eat less meat so you can buy organic.

Click on video to watch the Today Tonight report:

July 2010 Newsflash

2010-07-27T13:49:00.006+10:00

Hi Everyone,

Hope this finds you all happy and healthy. Hope you like our new-look newsletter. I have been awake days and nights fiddling with colours, layouts etc and I think it looks pretty good, though I couldn't get the logo smack in the middle, yet...

Competition: If you would like to go into the draw to win a 1hr Remedial Massage for you or a friend read through this newsletter and find out what my 'Pet Hate' is this month. Email your response to allisonamey@gmail.com by 31/7/10. Good Luck!!

Remember the 2010 Business Achiever Awards are on again so take a minute to vote for us at www.businessachieverawards.com.au. It would be wickedly awesome to win this year... I may even get into a frock and stiletto's and go to the Awards. Hmmm ... that may be dangerous.
May lots of blessings be bestowed upon you all,
Alli

2010-07-26T21:24:00.011+10:00

NEED CALCIUM? FORGET MILK!

When most people think of calcium they think of dairy products- milk, cheese, yohgurt. And if you asked most people how they would combat osteoporosis their likely response would be to eat more dairy products, meaning milk, cheese and yohgurt. Those marketing people have really done their job in promoting the Dairy Industry but what about your health?

Our bodies have heaps of calcium stored in our bones and teeth. Only when our bodies are not receiving adequate calcium from our diets will our bodies start to extract the calcium it needs from the bones and teeth.
But a diet high in dairy products gives us calcium, right? That's what we are told, right? Dairy products do contain calcium but unfortunately it is not the type the body requires and in fact it actually depletes the body's own reserves of calcium (the cause of osteoporosis in the first place). Western women consume the most dairy products in the world yet have the highest incidence of osteoporosis. Can anyone see a link? In fact, respected and famous physician, Colin Campbell, author of The China Study on his website quotes "In a 12-year Harvard study of 78,000 women, those who drank milk 3 times per day actually broke more bones than women who rarely drank milk" www.tcolincampbell.org

Have you ever noticed that humans are the only animals that continue drinking milk past infancy? And we drink the hormonally and chemically controlled breast milk of another species! I know it's considered 'normal' but it is kinda weird if you think about it for longer than 10seconds and forget about tradition. And we all know how important it is for a breast feeding mother to be vigilant about what she eats because it affects her baby yet we really have no idea what is in the cup of cows milk we give our 2yr old and the rest of the family. It makes no sense. Seems we have just become accustomed to it.

So, where do we get the RIGHT calcium?

Well, let's think about it. Where do cows get calcium? Milk? Cheese? Yohgurt? No! No! No! Cows get calcium from plants, of course! Grass is high in calcium so unless the cow is being fed grain and corn, which is not good for the cow or you, the green grass provides them all the calcium they need.

Get your calcium from brocolli, butternut pumpkin, sweet potato, onions, chick peas, tofu, baked beans, almonds and brown rice amongst others. Your body is able to absorb and use the calcium from these foods and they won't wreak havoc on your digestive system and leave you feeling bloated, cramped and nauseous. Our bodies love plants, especially well grown organic ones.

As Robert Cohen says "How ironic it is that the dairy industry continues to promote the cause of bone disease as the cure". Ironic? I'd call it shamefully dishonest and misleading.

2010-07-26T20:31:00.004+10:00

POVERTY

"The poverty of our century is unlike that of any other. It is not, as poverty was before, the result of natural scarcity, but of a set of priorities imposed upon the rest of the world by the rich. Consequently, the modern poor are not pitied... but written off as trash. The twentieth-century consumer economy has produced the first culture for which a beggar is a reminder of nothing." John Berger

2010-07-26T17:18:00.006+10:00

1 million Women www.1millionwomen.com.au

This is a campaign for all women to participate and join forces in helping the Earth deal with Climate Change. Global Warming is real and is happening right now and whilst many people want to be skeptical, cynical and even argue about whether global warming is 'natural' the fact remains that if we continue to live this way- polluting our air and waterways, raping the soil, destroying farming and agriculture, and treating animals as commodities our future generations will suffer. That's your children, your grandchildren.

Statistics show that women make approx 70% of the economic decisions within the household. What to buy, where to shop, what names to buy, what cleaning products to buy. We need to use our purchasing power to make statements about what we will and won't consume in an effort to support this sick, groaning planet of ours.

Check the website www.1millionwomen.com.au for information on this great program. And in the meantime buy local fruit and veg, use your reusable bags, have a browse in Vinnies and on Ebay and buy second hand, use recycled building materials, boycott unnecessary packaging, get a worm farm, eat less animal products, organise a clothes swap, go to a farmers market, swap veges with neighbours.

Alli's pet hate... If you are in the fruit section do not use those rolls of plastic bags unless extremely necessary. There is no need to put your 4 apples in one bag, 3 bananas in another, your 4 mandarins in another and your 4 tomatoes in another. Just pop them all in your green bag and toddle off to the checkout. Then you can walk away tall and proud knowing you have limited your toll on planet Earth. And let me tell you, she sends her thanks :)

"Mothers have as powerful an influence over the welfare of future generations

as all other Earthly causes combined" John S.C Abbott

My friend Simon had this to say, "CO2.. Hmm.. that comes out your mouth yeah? So if 1million women spoke less they could have a profound contribution in negating global warming" . I'm still not sure if I'm giggling or going to punch him in the nose. Oh, that's right, violence is not the answer....

2010-07-24T21:15:00.012+10:00

ENVIRONMENTAL TIP OF THE MONTH.........PLANT A VEGE PATCH

I soooo miss having a vege patch so if you have a patch of grass that gets all day sun then make one for me!! There is nothing like home grown tomatoes, beans, snow peas and strawberries and if planted with a bit of manure and love are probably better than shop bought organic (no transport, packaging and heaps fresher). Spring will be here before we know it so start planning now. Remember, don't dust the tomatoes but grow some basil around them instead. Get a book on companion planting to naturally protect your loving plants from pest and disease.
"It is good to be in a garden at dawn or dark so that all it's shy presences may haunt you and possess you in a reverie of splendid thought" James Douglas

June 2010 Newsflash

2010-06-17T19:35:00.008+10:00

Hi Everyone,

The rain has stopped, the sun is out and there is a brisk, little chill in the air making my nose cold. It's funny how we all feel the cold differently; I was in Terrigal early this morning dressed snuggly in cardigan, jacket and scarf when two teenagers walked past me soaking wet, bare chested, bare footed, wearing half a wet suit. They were laughing innocently, not a care in the world, oblivious to the ferocious icy wind, whilst I watched in dismay wondering whether I was perhaps in a parallel universe. It must have something to do with youth; my children wouldn't even know it was winter if I weren't constantly telling them to put a jumper and slippers on, and to eat their vitamin C tablet.

Speaking of vitamin C, there are lots of delicious mandarins and oranges in season right now so stock up; it's what your body needs over winter to help fight colds and flu's. Look for organic, or at least locally grown.

In health and happiness,

Allison
Ps.. I am away from Thurs 1st till Sat 10th July but Helen and Colin, aromatherapist and remedial therapist respectively, will be working as usual. Feel free to try them out!

Re the B.P Oil Spill.... As a U.S comedian said,

"You know what happens when windmills collapse into the sea?.... a splash"

THE BOOK SHELF

I have just received some great books from Amazon. It felt like Xmas as I skipped out excitedly and took the packages from the bemused postman. The DVD's include:

Food Matters... questioning current beliefs on health care and medical establishments.
The Gerson Miracle... preventing and treating cancer naturally. A must see for anyone dealing with cancer.
Food Inc... exposing the ugly side of the food industry. What the big corporations don't want you to see.
What the Bleep do we know?... An introduction to quantum physics.
Consciousness... 20 scientists, 9 hours, 5 DVD's... when's the next rainy weekend? :)
The Quantum Activist... Dr Amit Goswami challenges our notions of existence and realtiy.
The Celestine Prophecy... based on James Redfield's best selling novel.

You probably won't find these titles in your local video shop so come and borrow them from the clinic. A donation of $5 for DVD's and $2 for books is appreciated and will enable me to keep The Book Shelf stocked with an awesome variety of interesting topics for your family's health. Very educational, they'll give you a new perspective on things.

"With access to better information people invariably

make better choices for their health..." Food Matters DVD

WHAT IS MEDITATION?

Forget the stereotypical images of cross-legged, skinny men sitting for hours in a loin cloth, eyes closed, looking like they have just smoked some good opium. Meditation does not have to be so structured or as painful as you may believe.

Meditation is the art of allowing all thoughts to disperse from your mind revealing your True Self which is buried under all these thoughts. And like any art, practice makes perfect.

Our True Self, our pure Divine Self, is encased in our physical body while we live on this beautiful planet Earth. Our True Self has all the wisdom of the universe, all the answers you will ever need. Our bodies eventually die but our True Self is eternal. Our body allows us to experience the physical world around us and our minds allow us to discern, judge and memorise our physical experiences. But we are not our bodies and we are not our minds. As Teilhard de Chardin, French priest, philosopher and mystic said "We are spiritual beings having a human experience".

Have you ever noticed the thoughts that run through your mind when driving, washing the car, trying to sleep? We have imaginary conversations, we replay events and have imaginary arguments. Sometimes it's just ongoing scatter-chatter like "...pick up kids...need carrots...far out, she annoys me...hope it doesn't rain tomorrow...oops, forgot to call mum...gee, I'd love to go to Borneo...maybe I should dye my hair red... oh, look at that beautiful cloud...blah, blah, blah...". Our human thoughts distract us from our True Self. Meditation is a tool which you can use to return to your True Self and in doing so bring you to a place of heightened awareness, peace and serenity.

SO, HOW TO MEDITATE?

Ease into it. Aim for 5-10mins, morning and night, initially. Find a quiet, warm place to sit comfortably with your spine erect and your neck relaxed. Close your eyes and begin to notice your breath. Breathing in, breathing out. Don't force the breath, just become aware of it. Hear the sound of the in-breath, the sound of the out-breath. Feel your belly rise and fall with the breath. You will notice your breathing slowing down. You will also become aware of the incessant thoughts trying to infiltrate the peace and quiet you are creating. That's OK. Let the thoughts come and let them go. This is not thinking time... anything important you will think again later. Don't analyse or berate yourself, just let all thoughts and judgements go. Continue to breathe for as long as you can letting go of any interruptions by your mind about sore legs or numb bum. Some people find it easier to repeat a chosen word (mantra) on each out-breath like "peace", "calm" or ''letting go" which may stop the mind wandering or wingeing about being bored.

5 mins may be enough at first but if you continue this practice regularly you will soon experience your beautiful inner calm, your True Self, and you will find you can sit for longer periods. In the initial stages your mind may resist your attempts to meditate with negative comments like "I don't have time", "it's too late", "it's not working". This is completely normal; it's just the mind competing for your attention like a child. And, like an interrupting, annoying child we just ignore. Eventually it will lose power and stop.

Remember, everyone is different and we all have different thoughts, pressures and expectations of ourselves so try not to let the mind compare you to others. Wherever you are in your meditation practice is perfect. And remember, practice makes perfect.

"Meditation brings wisdom; lack of meditation leaves ignorance.

Know well what leads you forward and what holds you back,

and choose the path that leads to wisdom"

Guatama Siddharta 563-483B.C

MEDITATION AND SCIENCE

# Meditation helps kids with ADHD

http://www.abc.net.au/science/articles/2007/11/30/2106111.htm

# Meditation decreases anxiety and depression

http://www.psychologytoday.com/articles/200105/the-science-meditation
# Meditation reduces stress, anxiety and panic disorder

http:/www.columbia.edu/itc/hs/medical/cp4/client_edit/topic4/sg3b-1.pdf

# Meditation can slow down HIV progression

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/07/080724215644.htm

# Meditation can reduce pain

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/11/091110065909.htm

# Meditation helps heart disease patients lower cardiac disease risks by 50%

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2009/11/091116163204.htm

"Meditation is not a way of making your mind quiet.

It's a way of entering into the quiet that's already there-

buried under the 50,000 thoughts the average person thinks everyday" Deepak Chopra

ENVIRONMENTAL TIP OF THE MONTH

Eat Less Meat
According to renowned scientist David Suzuki (David Suzuki's Green Guide) beef production requires up to 70,000 litres of water for every kilo of meat eventually produced (yes, cows drink water, too) and chickens require 6,000 litres per kilo of meat eventually produced. Commercial animal farming also pollutes rivers and streams via manure run-off, and the atmosphere via methane gas (farts).

Help save our environment by eating less meat and animal products. Substitute one or two meat meals a week with a healthy vegetarian option. Easy recipes when converting from meat are vege lasgane, vege curry, vege pie and minestrone soup. Make your mince dishes with half red lentils (no one will know!). And always buy organic.. better for you and the beautiful animal.

May 2010 News Flash

2010-05-06T22:56:00.042+10:00

Hi Everyone,

Wow, almost half way through the year.

There is a rumour going around at the moment that time is actually getting faster. The other day I read that a recent earthquake has caused the Earth to spin faster on it's axis; someone else told me that it is the lead up to (thunder and lightening sound effects) 2012!!!; my son, Jordan, told me it only seems that way because I'm getting slower.

Whatever the reason, the change of season, temperature and daylight should mean that our bodies naturally slow down becoming like the big old hibernating bear who retreats to her cave with all sorts of yummy, fattening foods and warm, comfy cushions and pillows on which she can guiltlessly rest her head and fall into a deep slumber. Sounds lovely, doesn't it?

Remember that winter is a time of energy conservation, resting, keeping warm. If you put on a few kilos don't fret, you're like most of us putting on an extra layer for warmth. If the coldness and darkness feels gloomy to you at times, that's normal too... put it down to SAD- Seasonal Affective Disorder. It's the circle of life ... nothing lasts forever and it will be spring before we know it.

Blessings,
Allison

Now... where have they put my cave this year?

"The happiness of one's own heart alone cannot satisfy the soul;

one must try to include, as necessary to one's own happiness,
the happiness of others." Paramahansa Yogananda

MAY SPECIAL ... Aromatherapy Massage $50

Helen Piazza, Aromatherapist, has joined us at Soul Temple and would like to offer you all a wonderfully relaxing full body massage, using 100% essential oils blended especially for your physical and emotional needs on the day. This is a blissful treatment you will thoroughly enjoy.

Helen also specialises in pregnancy massage, so if you know of anyone expecting a handful, tell them about Helen or better still buy them a Gift Card.

OUR DEEPAK EXPERIENCE

Rut, Frances and I had a memorable time at the Convention Centre in Darling Harbour recently hearing Deepak Chopra speak in an all day seminar on health, science and spirituality and the intertwining of them all. It was a great day; the vibe was exciting and the atmosphere electric, testament to the fact that all is energy and that in a group of like minded people the calibration of that vibration increases exponentially.

Surprisingly, the artist that came out onto the stage to introduce Deepak was Jimmy Barnes, apparently a good friend of his. He sang a soft, soulful melody accompanied by an Indian harp and guitar... there was not one screech to be heard. Needless to say, though never a fan of Jimmy, when we had morning tea the groupie in me came out and I had to get a photo. How funny :D

NON ATTACHMENT

One of the things that resonated for me during Deepak's talk was the idea of non attachment. Non attachment is the concept of living life without always trying to control the outcome. It's allowing the energy of the universe, which is a much more determined and powerful force than you (after all it makes flowers grow and volcanoes erupt), to guide you through life and in doing so open you up to more amazing and boundless possibilities than your li'l old mind could have ever imagined.

Non attachment doesn't mean living a life of complacency or laziness, or having a 'whatever' attitude. You can still have dreams, goals and desires but, instead of exerting narrow minded control over every aspect of the course of your desire, you allow the intelligence of the universe to weave it's magic.

We meet people all the time who want to control their lives and everyone else's. Some people tell lies to maintain control of their lives; others have to organise everyone and everything, leaving nothing to chance; others manipulate people and situations to achieve the outcome they desire. When we are so controlling, so anxious for a specific outcome and things don't go according to our plan we become desperate, angry and feel out of control. This is because we are trying to force our plan into the natural plan of the universe and when we do this we are rejecting the many other exciting possibilities that destiny may have in store for us.

Instead, if we hold the intent of our desire/goal from the pure space in our heart and feel it with the entirety of our being and then just let it go, having no attachment to it, we can watch the results unfold. Of course, we still need to feed our idea/goal with love and attention and we are actively involved in manifesting the goal but we allow some universal creativity to abound and often, when this happens, we begin to notice synchronisation of events, good luck, welcome surprises, 'golden opportunities', we meet helpful people, things start 'falling into place' and we start smiling and singing "I've got a beautiful feeling, everything's going my way" from Oklahoma... (or is that just me?).

So, next time you feel like nothing is going right, try taking a step back and notice how attached you have become to expecting a specific outcome. Maybe there are some aspects you could let go of a little, or maybe you are trying too hard for something, or maybe it is just not the right time. Make sure you leave some room for universal creativity... you may get more than you bargained for!

A saying has just popped into my head.. "Let go and Let God". I'm sure this is from the Christian faith but it shows that this inherent wisdom is available to all of us.

"All the Buddhas of all the ages have been telling you a very simple fact: Be -- don't try to become.

Within these two words, be and becoming, your whole life is contained.

Being is enlightenment, becoming is ignorance." Osho

ENVIRONMENTAL TIP OF THE MONTH

Invest Ethically Ethical Investing is an investment strategy that seeks a high moral and social value as well as a great financial return. Typically, ethical investing favours companies that support a healthy environment, consumer protection, human rights and diversity, and steers away from companies which have blatant disregard for the health of people, the environment and the planet. Google 'ethical trading' or speak to your investment broker. And if he hasn't heard of ethical trading mention '100% renewable resources' or tell him to call me :)

April 2010 Newsflash

2010-04-10T14:48:00.069+10:00

Hope you all had a lovely Easter weekend and managed to catch up with friends, family and sleep. Speaking of which, the clocks have been begrudgingly turned back, and it seems like we have been plunged into darkness come 6pm. Oh, summer and warmth, why must thou forsake us?

On the upside, though, we have warm soups to look forward to, cosy fires, sleep-ins, flowering cyclamen and casseroles. Oh, and tracky pants and bed socks... such a classy time of year!

Mother's Day is just around the corner so why not purchase the special Mama's in your life a Soul Temple gift voucher? They will then go into the draw to win an Aromatherapy Pamper Pack from Le Reve valued at $150. With so many therapies to choose from she won't be disappointed.

And for all of you Facebook addicts, check us out and become a fan!

Many blessings,

Allison

"If there were no schools

to take the children away from home some of the time,

the insane asylum would be filled with mothers"

Edgar Watson Howe

SPECIAL : JAPANESE ACUPUNCTURE
Frances is offering a 50% discount ($40) on Acupuncture consultations this month.

Frances is highly trained in Traditional Chinese Medicine and is a bounty of health information.

Acupuncture treats myriad conditions including migraine, back and neck pain, nerve problems, menstrual and menopause conditions, irritable bowel and digestive disorders, high blood pressure, insomnia, stress, fatigue and addictions. It can also help with fertility and pregnancy.

Frances also practices cosmetic acupuncture which dramatically reduces lines and wrinkles, and improves skin tone.

Call the clinic 4384 4600 or Frances on 0400 361 581.

LETS LOSE TRACK OF TIME
I was thinking the other day about the idea that there is no such thing as 'time' in our universe. That time is actually just a man made concept to help us to understand the world around us, and categorise, seperate and differentiate our experiences.

Presumably the big old eucalypt in my back yard has no idea that it is monday; the magpie in my front yard, and the cricket it is eating, does not know it is 7.22am on the 8th day of April; the 12mth old baby surrounded by red wrapping paper has no idea it is Xmas, nor which millennium we are in. And, really, who cares? How blissful it must be to live such a here-and-now existence.

We get so caught up in the busy-ness of life. We are late for this, have to be there, got to do this, always in a hurry. Our heart rate increases, blood pressure and insulin levels rise, production of cortisol increases... Our bodies are in a state of stress. A bit of stress here and there poses no lasting problem to most of us; our bodies are strong and will cope. But some people thrive on this stress, this busy-ness. They can't relax, even feel guilty for it, and believe they are wasting time if not busy doing something. If we live this way, day in and day out, with high blood pressure, a stressed heart and stress hormones doing continuous laps around the body, should we be surprised if our bodies finally throw a tantrum by way of a life threatening heart attack?

Be sure to take time out, time to potter. You know, a day when you have nothing on, nowhere to be, no reason to rush. Where you can wander around your front yard like the magpie, where you can enjoy the wind rustling through your hair like the big old eucalypt, and be in the present moment, like a small child, feeling the immensity of nature all around you. Feel how your skin feels, how your heart feels, how beautiful everything is around you... and hold on to that feeling for as long as you can. Try and find time every day to breathe in, and be awestruck by, the present moment... after all it's the only moment there is. And if you are bored stiff after a few moments it means you need to do it more often.

'Let my soul smile through my heart and my heart smile through my eyes,

that I may scatter rich smiles in sad hearts'

Paramahansa Yogananda

ENVIRONMENTAL TIP OF THE MONTH
Share Your Garden with the Natives

It's really beautiful enjoying your morning cuppa amidst the chirping and busy-ness of all the other animals beginning their day, so liven up your garden by planting native trees and shrubs to encourage native insects, birds and wildlife to your yard, creating a living habitat you can all enjoy. Bottle brushes, grevillea's, boronia's and Australian daisies are beautiful, colourful plants that need little water, once established, and create a lavish feeding ground for lorikeets, king parrots and many other native birds.

Check out the endangered species of Australian plants at http://asgap.org.au/atrisk1.html

March 2010 News Flash

2010-03-18T21:14:00.021+11:00

Welcome to this months blog.

The mornings are beginning to get cooler and darker. I know this because I have been waking at 6am to start the day with an hour of gentle stretches, some yogic breathing and meditation before I am barraged by demands for breakfast, last minute permission notes, early morning fights and general hysteria (sometimes mine). I am well and truly into my fourth week and have noticed some obvious improvements, most notably the feeling of clarity in my mind. I feel calmer, clearer and more motivated. I am tired by 9pm and asleep by 10.30 and I am sleeping better than I have in a long while. I feel more decisive and powerful, yet feel placid and humble, if that makes any sense at all. Don't misunderstand me.. my kids still drive me nuts, I'm often doing far too much, I need a cook and a cleaner but I feel more content, more accepting of my life.

Needless to say, I'm keeping it up.

I better get some warm slippers :)

Blessings,

Allison

DEEPAK CHOPRA AUSTRALIAN TOUR

2010-03-18T21:08:00.025+11:00

Frances (acupuncture), Rut (kundalini yoga) and I are heading down to Sydney next month to hear Deepak Chopra in a one day seminar intensive. I am so looking forward to it, having read a number of his books. He is a qualified medical practitioner and endocrinoligist as well as a traditional Indian ayurvedic practitioner so his knowledge is bountiful. Mixed with his expertise in quantum physics and his spiritual background, the day should make for one memorable event. I will provide the run-down next newsletter.

Anyone wanting to join us please call Allison 0431 950 569.

www.deepakchopratour.com

SPECIAL !!!

Come in for a massage this week (mon 22nd) and receive a 1kg bag of Epsom Salts valued at $10. Softens, de-stresses and de-toxifies. And gives you 20mins of peace and serenity in the bath :)

ENVIRONMENTAL TIP OF THE MONTH

2010-03-18T13:58:00.020+11:00

Check out your local BUSHCARE group. They meet once or twice a month to plant trees, regenerate bushland, encourage environmental awareness, and maintain our wetlands, lagoons and beaches. For more info check out

http://copacabana.nsw.au/copalinks/copa-bush-care-group/

or Council’s Bushcare Officers (4325 8222)

"The ultimate test of man's conscience may be his willingness to sacrifice something today for future generations whose words of thanks will not be heard."

— Gaylord Nelson, co-founder of Earth Day

WHAT NEW YEARS RESOLUTION?

2010-03-18T11:39:00.023+11:00

How are the New Years Resolutions going?

I don't do New Years resolutions anymore, mostly because they ended with me feeling guilty and like a failure for finally giving in to whatever vice I was trying to abstain from. Now I just try to live a moderate lifestyle so that I can enjoy a bit everything. Whether it be chocolate, red wine, ice cream, a late night, gossip or second helpings, I try to keep a balance on all these things by listening to my body. My body, not my mind. Keeping the balance is difficult unless we truly decide to honour ourselves (honour... such a lovely word!). Abusing our bodies and minds is not honouring ourselves and only leaves us feeling disappointed, angry and resentful with ourselves which then culminates in the cycle of feeding our habit. We know we should say no to the extra Wagon Wheel, the third late saturday night in a row, the rest of the bag of greasy potato chips, the destructive relationship. So what is the best way to make those changes so they last?

Deepak Chopra talks about first being clear on the habit you want to change. Secondly, when you are engaged in that behaviour or habit, give it your full attention. Whether smoking, gossiping, or over-eating, notice your thoughts and emotions, and feel how your body feels. Do it without judgement, just experience the sensations. Thirdly, close your eyes, inhale deeply and visualise in your mind the changes you need to implement. Imagine clear lungs, saying no to the extra glass of alcohol, staying calm in a heated conversation, buying healthy food. Write down the changes you would like to make and check it every day. Fouth, when you are feeling strong in your resolve, pick a day that will support your change, being careful not to consciously or sub-consciously saboutage your plan. Fifth, have something to fill the void of your habit. Go for a walk, meditate, write a journal, eat some sweet grapes and hold the vision of yourself free from this habit. See yourself happy, healthy, liberated and proud. Feel how that feels and hold onto it as long as possible. Sixth, and this can be tricky, distance yourself from those people with whom you associate the habit and surround yourself with positive people. Be honest with your friends and family, telling them how committed you are to this change. If they love you they will understand and support you. You may just be the example they need.

And if it all falls apart and you find yourself back at Step One, be kind with yourself. You wouldn't scold someone else who slipped up. Just start again.. the stronger the vision you create of your 'contented' self the easier it gets... believe me.

Honouring yourself is acknowledging that you have every right to be happy and fulfilled. Honouring yourself is the most important change you can implement as it gives you back your beautiful power and your wise, inner control. When you honour yourself others begin to honour you, too.

"Everything in the universe is within you,

Ask all from yourself" Rumi

February 2010 News Flash

2010-02-12T17:12:00.006+11:00

Hope you are all enjoying this delicious weather at the moment... Delightful summer days with warm, radiant energy from the sun topped with the magnificence of thunder storms and pelting, drenching rain. The grass at my place loves it... almost a little too much !!

Welcome to our second newsletter. I hope you find it helpful and interesting. Thank you for your feedback and comments for articles... I think I have enough suggestions to keep us going for the next few months but keep them coming anyway.

Blessings,

Allison.

THE JOURNEY

2010-02-12T16:51:00.012+11:00

KERRIE WEBB... JOURNEY THERAPIST

Kerrie Webb, now at Soul Temple, is a qualified Journey Therapist who has undergone extensive training with Brandon Bays.

WHAT IS THE JOURNEY?

The Journey is the life work of international best-selling author, speaker and mind-body healing expert Brandon Bays who, in undergoing her own healing journey from a basketball-sized tumour without drugs or surgery, pioneered this work to now help thousands of others worldwide.

The Journey has been known to help people with issues such as anxiety, depression, stress, chronic pain, anger, low self-esteem, issues relating to abuse, relationships, and physical disease or illnesses. It is a practical, down-to-earth tool that gets results and helps people clear blockages in their life, allowing them to discover their own infinite power and wisdom.

ARE YOU READY FOR THE JOURNEY?
Is fear, anxiety or stress prevalent in your life?
Are you feeling stuck or feeling that there is more to life?
Are you facing ill health or ongoing physical issues?
Do you have unhealthy behaviours that keep repeating, leaving you depressed, flat or even hating yourself and life?
Do you want more fulfillment in your relationships?
If you answered YES to any of these questions, then this is an invitation for you to take action in your life and dive in for some true healing with lasting change for yourself. Call the clinic on 4384 4600 or Kerrie on 0416 225 675.

" Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being, and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. " ~World Health Organization, 1948

ENVIRONMENTAL TIP OF THE MONTH

2010-02-10T14:18:00.011+11:00

Stop buying plastic bottles of water.

Why did we ever start doing this? They are hard to break down and end up as land fill, leaking toxic residue into the earth and polluting waterways. Also, the distance that most of the water has to travel has dire implications on the environment by way of transportation costs and packaging. Buy a water filter for your kitchen tap and have filtered, clean water instantly, and use re-usable stainless steel, glass or leach-free aluminium bottles. It is better value, environmentally sustainable and fresh.

EAT YOUR SEEDS !

2010-02-10T12:06:00.039+11:00

Having grown up in a typically Celtic Australian family, dinner when I was a child usually consisted of a portion of meat, some potatoes and maybe two serves of vegetables. I don't remember ever seeing a seed in any of my meals unless it was the sesame seeds on the odd hamburger bun. Now, as a parent and Queen of the kitchen, I have jars filled with all sorts of seeds that I throw into all sorts of dishes. Here's why...

Seeds are the beginning of a new plant making them packed full of essential nutrients. They are full of vitamins, minerals, healthy oils, proteins, amino acids and dietary fibre making them excellent additions to our diets. Best of all, they're cheap!

Always buy quality organic seeds, where possible, and store in a cool dark place or refrigerate. Crush linseeds and sesame seeds to take full advantage of their goodness and to increase absorption.

Remember, you only need a small amount of seeds. A handful into an average meal is great.

Sesame Seeds

High in calcium, magnesium, iron, B1 and zinc. Also containing sesamin and sesamolin, sesame seeds are believed to lower blood pressure, cholesterol and protect against liver damage.

Flax Seeds (Linseed)

An excellent source of Omega 3, flax seeds are thought to help in preventing heart disease, and lowering blood pressure and cholesterol. They are known to have anti-inflammatory properties and contain antioxidants. Can also be bought as an oil from health food shops (it should be in a brown bottle and kept in the fridge) making it perfect for smoothies. Only crush what you need to maintain freshness from the seed.

Sunflower Seeds

High in Omega 3, 6, 9 , folic acid, selenium, iron and zinc. Sunflower seeds are also a good source of Vitamin E, an antioxidant, helping to eradicate free radicals within the body.

Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds contain a high amount of vitamin A, calcium, iron and Omega 3 and 6. They promote health of the prostate and bladder, can help to lower cholesterol, and their anti inflammatory properties may help sufferers of arthritis.

The health benefits of seeds are many. The above list only touches the surface of the nutritional and health benefits of these wonder foods. Like most things variety is the key so have a few varieties in the pantry. Use seeds in porridge, salads, rice dishes, curries, quiches, stir fry's, cakes, muffins, loaves... the list is endless. Be creative. If you have fussy eaters try crushing seeds first.

Challenge: Go to the Health Food shop and invest in a packet of each of the above. See how many meals you can get away with adding the seeds to without notice. You'll be surprised :)

"Every patient carries her or his own doctor inside."
Albert Schweitzer (1875 - 1965)

JANUARY 2010 NEWS FLASH

2010-01-18T21:55:00.005+11:00

Happy New Year!!! I hope you all had a cheery and loving Christmas and have lots of wonderful experiences to look forward to this coming year.

Welcome to our first Newsletter of 2010.

With each newsletter/blog I would like to supply you with interesting and new ideas on your health and body. We will look at nutrition, healthy living practices, new research, exercise and ways to deal with stress. We will also discuss different body therapies and how they can benefit us. With the environment being of concern to most of us looking to live a healthy lifestyle we will offer tips and advice on ways to help us be conscious dwellers on this beautiful planet we are so lucky to share.

As this site is dedicated to all of you and your loved ones I welcome all comments, questions and suggestions that will help make this newsletter an interesting and informative read. If you have an idea for an article please let me know.

Blessings,

Allison

ENVIRONMENTAL TIP OF THE MONTH

2010-01-18T21:45:00.011+11:00

This is easy and is best done with your kids or grand-kiddies in tow.

Take a walk along your nearest beach, lagoon or rock platform with a few garbage bags and collect as much rubbish as your bags and arms can hold. Set a great example not only to the children with you but to strangers watching. You never know... it may just become contagious :)

Of course, be careful and wear gloves if necessary.

BENEFITS OF REGULAR MASSAGE

2010-01-18T21:37:00.016+11:00

Since most of you are familiar with massage and how wonderful you feel after a massage I thought I might go into a little more detail as to what is actually happening to the body physiologically during a massage and WHY massage of all kinds is beneficial.

Firstly, the healing power of Touch cannot be over emphasised. Whether it be a massage, a hug from a loved one, an empathetic hand hold or a rumble with your grandchild, touch is necessary for all of us; our bodies respond beautifully to it.

Most of you know from experience that massage relaxes muscle, helps keep muscle supple, increases joint flexibility and reduces pain. At a chemical level during massage the body releases endorphin's, the body's natural 'feel good' chemical. The release of endorphin's reduces stress and anxiety (attributable for approx 90% of all illness and disease), boosts the immune system (helping to eradicate disease and cancer cells), helps relieve pain and brings a sense of calm to the body. The result is that heart rate and breathing slows down, and circulation improves, sending nutrients and oxygenated blood to tissues and cells. The flow of lymph increases, encouraging the body to rid itself of toxins and wastes. When this happens our bodies have the chance to work at optimum levels, aiding in digestion, respiration, elimination, cell repair and cell renewal.

Massage is no longer considered just a luxury or a treat. Massage is Body Maintenance. Regular massage is an investment in your health.

Interesting facts:

* Premature babies given nurturing touch and massage gain weight much faster than those who are not.

* Many hospitals incorporate massage to aid in pre operative patients and post operative care.

* Even a light massage can benefit people in hospices and it often seems that it is not the style of massage that is relevant, rather the simple association of touch in a loving, caring way.

* Deepak Chopra, in his book Quantum Healing, tells how a small reassuring squeeze to a patients hand during surgery registers positvely on heart and brain monitors, even though they are anaesthetised.

Massage is suitable and beneficial to all ages and can be modified for children and the elderly.

QUOTE OF THE MONTH

Realize deeply that the present moment is all you ever have. - Eckhart Tolle

HEALTH TIP

2010-01-18T21:35:00.008+11:00

WHOLE GRAINS ARE BEST

We all love our bread, pasta and rice and these foods often make up a substantial portion of our daily diets especially for those of us with children. Make the change from white to wholegrain, or whole meal, and your body will breathe a big sigh of relief.

White bread, pasta and rice are highly processed foods. White rice is produced after a high chemical treatment process whereby the husk from the grain is removed and many other nutrients are lost in the process. White rice has less Vitamin E, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folacin, Potassium, Magnesium, Iron and over a dozen other nutrients. Brown rice retains the husk, many nutrients and has at least 4 times more fibre, helping to keep our digestive system healthy and our bowels regular.

White bread is rather similar with about half of the healthy unsaturated fatty acids being lost in the milling process alone, and virtually all the vitamin E is lost with the removal of wheat germ and bran. This means that all that is left is poor quality proteins and a heap of fattening starch. And don't be tricked by packaged bread with labelling screaming 'high fibre'. You'll probably find it is full of synthetic fibre which is thrown in to compensate for the loss of the natural fibre during processing and which is not as useful to the body as natural fibre.

So where does that leave us? As with everything we put into our body look for foods with no additives, colours, flavours, preservatives and try to obtain your food from a local, natural and reliable source. Check labels and ask questions... of your baker, the green grocer, the butcher and avoid packaged foods as often as possible.