Thursday 22 November 2012
I Got Sick.
Almost 10 yrs of a perfect bill of health, with no family doctor contact. The only known issue I had to deal with during that time was a case of anemia that came and went depending on my diet choices. Since the birth of my son 10 yrs ago, I have been struggling to regain control over fluctuating weight. So, it was only natural to think that my growing belly, was a result of weight gain and a poor diet. I began exercising and watching portion control trying to get back a shape. One day I had plans to travel a couple of hours away to meet one of my cousins for the first time, on my Native mothers side. I was quite excited by feeling very bloated at the same time. I figured that I ate something disagreeable the night before, or perhaps it was the result of nerves and the uncertainty of this family meeting. It turns out, my cousin and her daughter were fantastic! We bonded very well and by the end of the day, I was happy and exhausted and had forgotten about the bloating. I came home and took a brief nap to sleep off the days excitement.
Then it happened...
I woke up in excruciating abdominal pain. My stomach bloated larger than it ever had and I could see my ribs stick out on the other side. It looked as if I was 6 mths pregnant. The pain was too unbearable. I alerted my husband and we made for the emergency room promptly. My blood was tested, as well as my vitals and all appeared to be normal. I was in tears from the pain, but nobody took me seriously. I told the on call doctor that I felt pregnant and he just looked at me as if I was crazy. I remember just sitting in the waiting chair, looking at him dumbfounded. I do not, as a rule, make trips to the hospital unless I feel like I am dying, and this was that time. I felt so angry and humiliated with the way I was treated and even felt defeated. Luckily, the doctor took the initiative to schedule an Ultra Sound to check over my Uterus. I came in the next day for my Ultra Sound and I could barely keep the pee in me. The pain was so intense that I ran to a nurse and begged her to release some or I would make a huge mess on the waiting room floor. Well, at least that would have made the story a little more interesting ;) After waiting for what seemed like an eternity (under an hr), I was finally called into the little room to have my Ultra Sound done. The nurse was very nice, made some small talk and all seemed normal until she scrunched up her face and flipped me on my side as she rolled the wand from the front of my belly, to nearly the middle of my back. I remember from pregnancy, that regular Ultra Sounds are using done on the belly only. I disregarded my suspicion and continued with the small chat. The nurse had told me that she wanted to get a second opinion from the floor doctor, she said it was normal. She was so genuine that I just took her word for it. The doctor entered the room and gave the same scrunched up look on his face....something began to feel very wrong.
I was sent downstairs to emerge to wait for my results. Again, I waited for what seemed an eternity, this time ONLY 2hrs had passed.
I was called into a makeshift room with a blue curtain that was drawn for "privacy"". The emerge doctor was very friendly but had a distinct look of confusion on her face, not quite like the scrunchy face, but close. Her first words to me were "I don't know how to say this to you". I told her to give me the news straight up, I have been waiting far too long for the results...
She told me that I had a 2 inch Cyst on my ovary. At the time, I swore I heard 2 feet! Nonetheless, the whole weight of the thing was nearly 13 pnds when removed.
I had a Vertical Laparotomy, a rather invasive surgery, to remove the gargantuan monster I dubbed "Alien Baby".
It has been over 6 mnths since my surgery. I don't really feel "normal", but I ma feeling better than I was. If I could give you some advice, it would be to always follow your instincts. I felt like I was pregnant, because I had a heavy weight on Uterus that should not have been there. I was always tired and pale because my body was feeding this "Alien Baby". If something does not feel right, don't allow others to talk you out of your own health. Most importantly, don't talk your own self out of your health. Only you know your body. Go with your instincts.
Sig.
I am just Me.
Ok, Seriously. I am a 30 fricken yr woman still working on my childhood dreams. Every year that passes, brings new challenges. Yet with every new year I think, this is it! This is the year it's going to happen, Man...AND BAM! A new challenge shows its ugly face. What the Hell? Then I go on this big tirade, start to feel all sorry for myself and fall backwards into that all too familiar pit of darkness. I get to cry, stomp my feet, all of that. That darkness can be quite addictive actually, but only if I let it...
See, I am fierce! Possibly a little weird as well, but mostly fierce! I know what I want, and dammit I am going to get if it kills me. I have even contemplated the idea of marrying some rich, very old Billionaire who would give me the footing I needed to achieve these goals. Awe, who am I kidding? I don't know any Billionaires! Ok. I kid, my morals always seem to give me a swift kick in the ass when needed. I guess that means I should put these stripper heels back into the closet while I'm at it. Reality sucks sometimes.
And then it hits me, like that time when my son was only 4yrs old, and he threw a metal, toy car right at my forehead. One of those coma induced reality checks kicks in. I am one lucky lady. I have a wonderful son. Ok, he has the ability to land me in the poor house with his appetite for food. And, every time I enter into his room, I swear a bomb has gone off. The shrapnel being bits of clothing and toys everywhere, but I still love him to death. He was my best, planned decision at the tender age of 19yrs old, and I don't regret a thing.
I am not a perfect person, nor do I pretend to be. I make mistakes, I feel sorry for myself, and I pick up the pieces only to start all over again from square one. I am just me. And, I don't care if nobody likes it. I am not changing for anyone.
Sig.
Wednesday 14 March 2012
The Sisterhood - Welcome Sister's!
I have always been inspired to motivate and to create change. So, that is exactly what I am attempting to do. I have recently created a facebook page, with the help of my cousin Margaret, to connect women of all walks of life. I believe in the power of women and the impact that we can make when we come together.
Woman are strong, loving and caring. We create balance in a male dominated society. We are needed to make change. We are a great support system for each other.
My idea is to bring women together to discuss topics of importance ie. coping s tragedies for full time working mothers, to give each other motivation with words of wisdom and experience, to provide guidance through past experience, to educate each other on healing remedies, natural living, ways to care for the environment, etc.
Women are full of so much useful knowledge and it would be great to have the experienced, guide the inexperienced.
I wish to connect the souls of women. I look forward to having social gatherings, where we can discuss important topics while bonding.
Perhaps in the future, we can start an organization to fund charities. The possibilities are endless!
Sometimes, women just need a place to feel safe, to share stories and to get some "womanly" advice. This page is designed to do such a thing.
I would like to take the opportunity to invite women to join this new journey. Add your wonderful insight and knowledge to this page. Help it grow as a supportive network for women who need it. If you don't need support, perhaps you are a great motivator!
We welcome you all as individuals, equals and a sister's!
Hope to see you there,
Much Love
Sig.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-SisterHood/325492084166146
Woman are strong, loving and caring. We create balance in a male dominated society. We are needed to make change. We are a great support system for each other.
My idea is to bring women together to discuss topics of importance ie. coping s tragedies for full time working mothers, to give each other motivation with words of wisdom and experience, to provide guidance through past experience, to educate each other on healing remedies, natural living, ways to care for the environment, etc.
Women are full of so much useful knowledge and it would be great to have the experienced, guide the inexperienced.
I wish to connect the souls of women. I look forward to having social gatherings, where we can discuss important topics while bonding.
Perhaps in the future, we can start an organization to fund charities. The possibilities are endless!
Sometimes, women just need a place to feel safe, to share stories and to get some "womanly" advice. This page is designed to do such a thing.
I would like to take the opportunity to invite women to join this new journey. Add your wonderful insight and knowledge to this page. Help it grow as a supportive network for women who need it. If you don't need support, perhaps you are a great motivator!
We welcome you all as individuals, equals and a sister's!
Hope to see you there,
Much Love
Sig.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-SisterHood/325492084166146
Sunday 11 March 2012
Homemade Salve - Yes You Can!
I make salve all of the time. It's a great thing to have around the house for ailments such as: mild burns, bug bites etc.
I have been saying for a very long time, that I should someday share some of my recipes. Many I have searched online, but just tweak them a bit to make them my own.
Here is a very basic recipe, of which you can tweak on your own, once you become more comfortable with making it.
-Basic Peppermint Salve-
makes approx 250 ml
* 1 Cup shaved beeswax ( I by it in a puck and shave it off as needed. You can use pellets if you prefer.
* 1/4 - 1/2 cup of favorite oil. I prefer extra virgin olive oil. You can use, grape seed oil, sunflower oil etc as long as it can handle being heated. I also have a bad habit of eye balling my measurements, you may need to tweak the amounts according to your preference.
* I also prefer to fuse my oil with fresh or dried herbs. For example, I harvested a bunch of peppermint and hung it to dry. I removed all of the leaves and stored in a seal proof container. I use the leaves in my peppermint salves. All you do is, place a handful ( or desired amount) of herbs into an oven proof dish, add oil enough to cover the herbs and cook on a low setting for 3hrs. Once cooled off, drain the herbs by using a cheesecloth and use the peppermint oil in your salve recipe. You can do this with many types of herbs.
* You can add a couple of gel Vit E capsules if you are worried about shelf life, although salves last for a very long time in the open air, as the components take longer to break down without things like water being added. Either way, keeping in in the fridge is ok too, it keeps the salve tougher and acts like a cooling cream. Also, the Vit E is a great skin softener.
* Last but not least, add a generous (10-14) drops of your desired essential oil. I sometimes mix them depending on the purpose of the salve.
"Pain Relief: Peppermint oil can be used externally for providing relief from pain. It is believed that the presence of calcium antagonism in peppermint oil aids in removing pain. It is cooling in nature and therefore helps reduce fever." Peppermint has many more healing benefits.
Peppermint blends well with various other essential oils including eucalyptus, rosemary, lemon, marjoram, etc.
Research your oils and their purpose before mixing different kinds together for an effective salve, or you can ask me and I will be more than happy to help :)
Once you have all of the needed ingredients.....
Use an old pot on a stove top to melt the wax. Wax will burn and is flammable so be careful! You only need it to melt down on a medium heat setting. Once the wax is melted, add in the virgin olive oil. Take the mixture off of the heat and add in Vit E and oils as preferred. mix together with a wooden spoon and slowly pour it into a 250 ml sterilized, glass jar. Allow to cool with the lid off. When completely cool, it is safe to use or refrigerate.
Good Luck! I hope this works for you! If not, I can still whip you up a couple of batches ;)
Much Love,
Sig.
I have been saying for a very long time, that I should someday share some of my recipes. Many I have searched online, but just tweak them a bit to make them my own.
Here is a very basic recipe, of which you can tweak on your own, once you become more comfortable with making it.
-Basic Peppermint Salve-
makes approx 250 ml
* 1 Cup shaved beeswax ( I by it in a puck and shave it off as needed. You can use pellets if you prefer.
* 1/4 - 1/2 cup of favorite oil. I prefer extra virgin olive oil. You can use, grape seed oil, sunflower oil etc as long as it can handle being heated. I also have a bad habit of eye balling my measurements, you may need to tweak the amounts according to your preference.
* I also prefer to fuse my oil with fresh or dried herbs. For example, I harvested a bunch of peppermint and hung it to dry. I removed all of the leaves and stored in a seal proof container. I use the leaves in my peppermint salves. All you do is, place a handful ( or desired amount) of herbs into an oven proof dish, add oil enough to cover the herbs and cook on a low setting for 3hrs. Once cooled off, drain the herbs by using a cheesecloth and use the peppermint oil in your salve recipe. You can do this with many types of herbs.
* You can add a couple of gel Vit E capsules if you are worried about shelf life, although salves last for a very long time in the open air, as the components take longer to break down without things like water being added. Either way, keeping in in the fridge is ok too, it keeps the salve tougher and acts like a cooling cream. Also, the Vit E is a great skin softener.
* Last but not least, add a generous (10-14) drops of your desired essential oil. I sometimes mix them depending on the purpose of the salve.
"Pain Relief: Peppermint oil can be used externally for providing relief from pain. It is believed that the presence of calcium antagonism in peppermint oil aids in removing pain. It is cooling in nature and therefore helps reduce fever." Peppermint has many more healing benefits.
Peppermint blends well with various other essential oils including eucalyptus, rosemary, lemon, marjoram, etc.
Research your oils and their purpose before mixing different kinds together for an effective salve, or you can ask me and I will be more than happy to help :)
Once you have all of the needed ingredients.....
Use an old pot on a stove top to melt the wax. Wax will burn and is flammable so be careful! You only need it to melt down on a medium heat setting. Once the wax is melted, add in the virgin olive oil. Take the mixture off of the heat and add in Vit E and oils as preferred. mix together with a wooden spoon and slowly pour it into a 250 ml sterilized, glass jar. Allow to cool with the lid off. When completely cool, it is safe to use or refrigerate.
Good Luck! I hope this works for you! If not, I can still whip you up a couple of batches ;)
Much Love,
Sig.
Friday 13 January 2012
Being a Highly Sensitive Person (HSP)
For as long as I can recall, I have been told that I was too sensitive. I suppose that description was not too far off. It turns out that I am Sensitive...Highly Sensitive.
Firstly, there is nothing wrong with being a sensitive person. Sure, in today's world, it may seem like a weak trait. Highly sensitive people are in fact, far from being weak.
Allow me to explain...
HSP's are not superior, nor are we inferior to the rest of the world. We are just wired differently. Everything we hear, see, smell etc. is heightened incredibly. We can only take in small bits of information, as we get over-whelmed easily.
Here is a more accurate, written description of what it means to be a HSP. http://ezinearticles.com/?Highly-Sensitive-People---Traits-and-Characteristics&id=81866
For many years, I thought that my suffering was a result of a mangled childhood. It took me many years to stumble across the idea of actually being a sensitive person.
For me, being an HSP goes deep to my core. I consider my heightened abilities to be "gifts". Why else would I be given these abilities?
When I refer to "abilities" I mean: My natural ability to be empathetic, sympathetic and caring. I love everybody and I don't hold grudges. I am creative, I have a natural "knack" for many things such as; healing, herbs, art, music and my heightened senses allow me to perceive things differently.
As mentioned earlier, I am by far not a Super Human. I have my faults, one being a wicked, short term temper. We all have our personal faults, I continue to try to improve on mine.
Going back to the "gifts"..
I have mixed blood, however I identify mostly with being Native American. Many things come to me so naturally, it almost seems to be a gift from my ancestors, or perhaps from the Great Spirit himself.
I use my gift of empathy and my knowledge of herbs, to heal. I use my experience from a dark, twisted past, to help others through their dark and twisted times. I am sort of a "wounded healer".
Highly sensitive people can be very useful in society. Here are a few ideas to elaborate further on the concept http://www.helium.com/items/270798-understanding-highly-sensitive-people
If you are a HSP, know that you are not alone. Don't become introverted because nobody understands you. If you are reading this, I understand you! Don't change who you are, just learn to work with what you have.
I am on a path to become a healer. I plan to merge Conventional medicine with Natural and Spiritual Healing. I believe that the answer to our health care needs, lay in the balance of Mind, Body and Soul. My ability to perceive things differently, leads to change.
Good luck to all of my fellow HSP'S! We are all unique in our own ways, even if we aren't Highly Sensitive. Everybody has a role in life, go seek out yours and make a difference! <3
Here are a couple of links to describe what it means to be a Highly Sensitive Person:
http://denmarkguy.hubpages.com/hub/hsp
http://healing.about.com/od/empathic/a/HSP_hallowes.htm
Firstly, there is nothing wrong with being a sensitive person. Sure, in today's world, it may seem like a weak trait. Highly sensitive people are in fact, far from being weak.
Allow me to explain...
HSP's are not superior, nor are we inferior to the rest of the world. We are just wired differently. Everything we hear, see, smell etc. is heightened incredibly. We can only take in small bits of information, as we get over-whelmed easily.
Here is a more accurate, written description of what it means to be a HSP. http://ezinearticles.com/?Highly-Sensitive-People---Traits-and-Characteristics&id=81866
For many years, I thought that my suffering was a result of a mangled childhood. It took me many years to stumble across the idea of actually being a sensitive person.
For me, being an HSP goes deep to my core. I consider my heightened abilities to be "gifts". Why else would I be given these abilities?
When I refer to "abilities" I mean: My natural ability to be empathetic, sympathetic and caring. I love everybody and I don't hold grudges. I am creative, I have a natural "knack" for many things such as; healing, herbs, art, music and my heightened senses allow me to perceive things differently.
As mentioned earlier, I am by far not a Super Human. I have my faults, one being a wicked, short term temper. We all have our personal faults, I continue to try to improve on mine.
Going back to the "gifts"..
I have mixed blood, however I identify mostly with being Native American. Many things come to me so naturally, it almost seems to be a gift from my ancestors, or perhaps from the Great Spirit himself.
I use my gift of empathy and my knowledge of herbs, to heal. I use my experience from a dark, twisted past, to help others through their dark and twisted times. I am sort of a "wounded healer".
Highly sensitive people can be very useful in society. Here are a few ideas to elaborate further on the concept http://www.helium.com/items/270798-understanding-highly-sensitive-people
If you are a HSP, know that you are not alone. Don't become introverted because nobody understands you. If you are reading this, I understand you! Don't change who you are, just learn to work with what you have.
I am on a path to become a healer. I plan to merge Conventional medicine with Natural and Spiritual Healing. I believe that the answer to our health care needs, lay in the balance of Mind, Body and Soul. My ability to perceive things differently, leads to change.
Good luck to all of my fellow HSP'S! We are all unique in our own ways, even if we aren't Highly Sensitive. Everybody has a role in life, go seek out yours and make a difference! <3
Here are a couple of links to describe what it means to be a Highly Sensitive Person:
http://denmarkguy.hubpages.com/hub/hsp
http://healing.about.com/od/empathic/a/HSP_hallowes.htm
Wednesday 21 December 2011
How to Age Youthfully
Lets face it, we live in a world that focuses on beauty and youth. In the bigger picture, it truly doesn't matter. You can't be a beautiful person, without a beautiful heart and soul, and youth doesn't last forever. Regardless of all of that, our culture still manages to judge each other, based on looks and age. It can be very difficult at times, nobody likes to feel like an outcast. That being said, here's a few ideas on how to rejuvenate your youthful appearance.
I would also like to mention that I will be 30yrs old tomorrow, and I still get I.D'd! It's not completely due to good genes.
Lets start from the inside...
1- Have a positive attitude!
How we act/react weights heavily on our outward appearance. We have all heard it before, stress adds years and is the cause of weight gain and illness. This is absolutely true! We all get into a funk at times, but don't allow it to consume you. Take a walk, exercise, meditate or whatever you need to do to get rid of the negative energy build-up.
2- Smile!
Be happy from the inside out. Spread positive energy to the people around you. Smiling, will instantly add a glow to your face :)
3- Eat properly.
Not always easy, I would know! However, you can't give up. Not only will you be healthier, it will also show in your skin and body. Eat plenty of fruits and veggies and limit your meat intake. Avoid too many sugars and caffeine (guilty), these are unhealthy and can age you very easily. Of course, if you're a smoker, it's going to have the same effect only more rapidly.
4- Drink plenty of water!
I struggle with this one sometimes. Even though I know that I should be drinking more water, I don't like the feeling of being bloated. On the other hand, I drink too much caffeine and retain water, so the most obvious choice is to just drink the damn water! The adult human body is composed of approximately 55 to 60% water. The brain is composed of 70% water, as is skin. Blood is 82% water, and the lungs are nearly 90% water, these are just approximations. The point is, water is an important part of our make-up and we need it to replenish our bodies, and it keeps our skin clear and youthful. So many times, I see older women with dried out skin and hair, this could be reversed by drinking more water! In fact, I'm going to get a glass right now.......
And...I'm back!
5- Get plenty of rest.
Over exertion will cause you to crash and burn. You need your rest, so your body can replenish itself. Even as you sleep, your body is working to create a stable environment on the inside. Plenty of sleep, will give you more energy making you feel more youthful. When you feel youthful, you appear youthful.
Now that we got the big things out of the way, lets start discussing the little tricks that will help our bodies from the outside......
6- A lack of water and rest, usually results in bags under the eyes. Products with caffeine added, are available for purchase. The idea is that caffeine will stimulate blood circulation in the micro-capillaries around the eye. Thus lessening the appearance of under eye circles. Personally, I prefer to use products that are as natural as possible. Many of our average day beauty products, are filled with chemicals that we can't even pronounce! Not to mention, we most likely absorb some of these chemicals through our skin.
I like to use lemon juice after washing my face, 2 times a day. Be careful not to get too close to your eyes for obvious reasons. For a toner, I use witch hazel, which tones and softens my skin.
7- Wear less makeup.
I hate to leave the house without "putting my face on". It's more habitual than anything. When I'm at home, I try to wear no makeup as much as possible. I allow my skin time to breathe and to replenish itself with healthy, new cells. Try not to rub your face and eyes with your hands, you will be spreading the naturals oils around your face and potentially cause breakouts.
Always apply moisturizer, even if you have oily skin! Just find one that meets your skins needs. A moisturizer will act as a barrier between your skin and the elements, or your skin and your makeup.
8- Go natural.
I have touched on this in other the other points. I believe that it's safer to use items from their most natural state possible. This goes for foods (avoid processed), cosmetics etc. I would rather make my own cream, than purchase one full of chemicals. Who knows what we are applying to our skin?! I also enjoy using LUSH Products, they are very close to a natural state. If you're comfortable with your products, go for it! Perhaps I'm just too sensitive with chemicals.
9- Condition your hair/moisturize your skin.
Every so often, I like to use Extra Virgin Olive oil and some sort of essential oil, to condition my hair. It can be a little heavy, so only use 1-2 tbsp max depending on your hair. The olive oil will act as a moisturizer and carrier oil for the essential oil. Most essential oils like, peppermint, orange blossom etc. need to be diluted to use on the skin and hair. Lavender oil, is one of the few essential oils that doesn't need a carrier oil. The Ancient Egyptians used Olive oil in many of their beauty treatments, it works as an excellent moisturizer as well. A little bit, is often enough.
Well, this is all that I can think about off of the top of my head. I know that I have plenty more tips and tricks, but these are the main ones.
These things work for me, perhaps they won't work for you, but at least they are worth a try if you're experiencing these problems.
There are tons of naturally healing and beauty tips floating around, just be sure to research them well before attempting them.
Beauty and youth are really not that important. I loathe living in a society that bases it's judgement on your character, by looks alone. However, I understand that it can be a bit of a struggle at times. Some of these things are quick fixes. What truly matters, is what's on the inside. Stay true to who you are, be a good person and your beauty will shine through no matter what.
Much Love,
Sig.
I would also like to mention that I will be 30yrs old tomorrow, and I still get I.D'd! It's not completely due to good genes.
Lets start from the inside...
1- Have a positive attitude!
How we act/react weights heavily on our outward appearance. We have all heard it before, stress adds years and is the cause of weight gain and illness. This is absolutely true! We all get into a funk at times, but don't allow it to consume you. Take a walk, exercise, meditate or whatever you need to do to get rid of the negative energy build-up.
2- Smile!
Be happy from the inside out. Spread positive energy to the people around you. Smiling, will instantly add a glow to your face :)
3- Eat properly.
Not always easy, I would know! However, you can't give up. Not only will you be healthier, it will also show in your skin and body. Eat plenty of fruits and veggies and limit your meat intake. Avoid too many sugars and caffeine (guilty), these are unhealthy and can age you very easily. Of course, if you're a smoker, it's going to have the same effect only more rapidly.
4- Drink plenty of water!
I struggle with this one sometimes. Even though I know that I should be drinking more water, I don't like the feeling of being bloated. On the other hand, I drink too much caffeine and retain water, so the most obvious choice is to just drink the damn water! The adult human body is composed of approximately 55 to 60% water. The brain is composed of 70% water, as is skin. Blood is 82% water, and the lungs are nearly 90% water, these are just approximations. The point is, water is an important part of our make-up and we need it to replenish our bodies, and it keeps our skin clear and youthful. So many times, I see older women with dried out skin and hair, this could be reversed by drinking more water! In fact, I'm going to get a glass right now.......
And...I'm back!
5- Get plenty of rest.
Over exertion will cause you to crash and burn. You need your rest, so your body can replenish itself. Even as you sleep, your body is working to create a stable environment on the inside. Plenty of sleep, will give you more energy making you feel more youthful. When you feel youthful, you appear youthful.
Now that we got the big things out of the way, lets start discussing the little tricks that will help our bodies from the outside......
6- A lack of water and rest, usually results in bags under the eyes. Products with caffeine added, are available for purchase. The idea is that caffeine will stimulate blood circulation in the micro-capillaries around the eye. Thus lessening the appearance of under eye circles. Personally, I prefer to use products that are as natural as possible. Many of our average day beauty products, are filled with chemicals that we can't even pronounce! Not to mention, we most likely absorb some of these chemicals through our skin.
I like to use lemon juice after washing my face, 2 times a day. Be careful not to get too close to your eyes for obvious reasons. For a toner, I use witch hazel, which tones and softens my skin.
7- Wear less makeup.
I hate to leave the house without "putting my face on". It's more habitual than anything. When I'm at home, I try to wear no makeup as much as possible. I allow my skin time to breathe and to replenish itself with healthy, new cells. Try not to rub your face and eyes with your hands, you will be spreading the naturals oils around your face and potentially cause breakouts.
Always apply moisturizer, even if you have oily skin! Just find one that meets your skins needs. A moisturizer will act as a barrier between your skin and the elements, or your skin and your makeup.
8- Go natural.
I have touched on this in other the other points. I believe that it's safer to use items from their most natural state possible. This goes for foods (avoid processed), cosmetics etc. I would rather make my own cream, than purchase one full of chemicals. Who knows what we are applying to our skin?! I also enjoy using LUSH Products, they are very close to a natural state. If you're comfortable with your products, go for it! Perhaps I'm just too sensitive with chemicals.
9- Condition your hair/moisturize your skin.
Every so often, I like to use Extra Virgin Olive oil and some sort of essential oil, to condition my hair. It can be a little heavy, so only use 1-2 tbsp max depending on your hair. The olive oil will act as a moisturizer and carrier oil for the essential oil. Most essential oils like, peppermint, orange blossom etc. need to be diluted to use on the skin and hair. Lavender oil, is one of the few essential oils that doesn't need a carrier oil. The Ancient Egyptians used Olive oil in many of their beauty treatments, it works as an excellent moisturizer as well. A little bit, is often enough.
Well, this is all that I can think about off of the top of my head. I know that I have plenty more tips and tricks, but these are the main ones.
These things work for me, perhaps they won't work for you, but at least they are worth a try if you're experiencing these problems.
There are tons of naturally healing and beauty tips floating around, just be sure to research them well before attempting them.
Beauty and youth are really not that important. I loathe living in a society that bases it's judgement on your character, by looks alone. However, I understand that it can be a bit of a struggle at times. Some of these things are quick fixes. What truly matters, is what's on the inside. Stay true to who you are, be a good person and your beauty will shine through no matter what.
Much Love,
Sig.
Thursday 17 November 2011
Dream World: Dream Analogy
I have always been a big dreamer. Not only do I have big goals in mind, I also have some fantastic journeys when sleeping. Now, before you read on, keep in mind that this is only an opinion. Not everybody will agree with my opinions and ideas and that's cool. I will be basing this opinion on experience, some psychology, symbolism and intuition.
Follow along if interested......
Supposedly, the Cree tribe is known to be blessed with dream analogy. Not sure if this is completely factual, but it would explain the intuition part. Recently, I have had the pleasure of assisting a few people with their dreams and dream analogy.
I believe that our dreams serve different purposes.....
Some are Symbolic: These types of dreams are a way for our sub conscience to communicate with us when we are in distress. Many of us have become skilled at suppressing information throughout our day that may be harmful to ourselves, or that may potentially cause us pain. We are completely unaware of this most of the time. Suddenly, you may find yourself having vivid, aggressive dreams. Your sub conscience is trying to reach out to you. Some of the information that you suppress, seeps out of your sub conscience into your dreams. It comes in bits of information and it's up to us to decode it.
The best way to analyze this type of dream: Dream recall is essential. In order to analyze any type of dream, you need to be able to recall the information. Practice dream recall nightly. Once you are able to recall most of the information from your dreams, pick out the things that stand out to you the most. For example, if you recall a certain color "blue" and your dream seem to be really focused on that color, it's likely that the color has some sort of symbolism or meaning to it. Pay attention to the things that stand out most to you. Once you have come up with a few things that stood out in the dream, research their meaning. I suggest: Using dream analogy books, online resources and symbolism. Symbols usually have different meanings than dream meanings. Once you've compiled a list of meanings for your items, see if you can figure out a common denominator.
For example, Dreaming about Fishing+ Water, lets say that both of these elements stood out on their own. A loose interpretation of dreaming about water: To see water in your dream, symbolizes your unconscious and your emotional state of mind. to dream of Fishing: To dream that you are fishing indicates that you are confronting and bringing your repressed emotions to the surface.
The common denominator of these two elements would be "Suppression". The unconscious mind is responsible for hiding and storing information, at the same time, you're fighting to bring your emotions to the surface. What information are you fighting with? what is it that you so badly don't want to confront? Perhaps, this dream is trying to tell you that you have some unresolved issues that need to be acknowledged. For these types of dreams, you need to reflect on the issues of your waking life. Have you been, or are you going through something traumatic? Are you stressed out?
Another type of dream is Religious/Spiritual: Whether you choose to believe in these or not, I believe that they do happen for a reason. The best way to identify these types of dreams, is again to pay attention to the specific elements that your dream allows you to recall. Find the meaning of these elements and again, find the common denominator. This is why I suggest finding the symbolic meaning of elements as well as the dream meaning, both can have two different meanings. Always cross reference your meanings with other sources. Use books, the internet and any other resources that you can get your hands on. Never assume that the first meaning you find, is the correct one.
Some dreams are meant to guide us in the right direction. These dreams often include an animal or familiar face, who acts as our guides. These are very special dreams, they are meant to keep us on our path. Sometimes, we get warnings in our dreams, listen to them carefully. I'm not saying that a passed relative is necessarily trying to communicate a message. I'm saying that we are somehow being warned of things, perhaps by our own instinctive selves.
Other dreams are random. They are just a way for our complicated minds to de clutter. These types of dreams, are just random things with no specific acknowledgment to certain elements. If nothing stands out to you in this dream, it's not anything that needs to be addressed.
As stated previously, this as all completely based on my opinion alone. You don't have to agree with it, or think that it's an exact depiction of your dream world. Perhaps you don't care about your dreams, which is not likely since you have read this far....
Dreams can be quite complicated to decode. It takes practice to dream recall, find the common denominators and find their correct meanings. However, once you have figured things out, it will allow you to cope better with your issues in the waking life (your every day life).
Once you learn to separate dreams from reality, and listen to your sub conscience, you may even be able to understand "lucid dreaming". Some of us have done this without even realizing it, but it's something that can be done on demand with practice......
Lucid Dreaming: Lucid dreaming is defined as dreaming while knowing that you are dreaming. You are literally able to identify as dream as not being your true reality. You will have control over your actions and reactions in this type of dream. I don't know about you, but I love the power of being able to control my own actions, even in a dream state. I have some tips and experience, on the topic of lucid dreaming.
Some resources that I have mentioned for dream meanings: Dream Moods Dictionary: http://www.dreammoods.com/dreamdictionary/a.htm , Signs and Symbols- an illustrated guide to their origins and meanings- Covent Garden Book (book), The element of Encyclopedia of secret signs and symbols- Adele Nozedar (book).
I hope that this information helps decode some of your crazy dreams. Remember, if you find this difficult to do on your own, I'm always happy to help!
Peace
Sig.
Follow along if interested......
Supposedly, the Cree tribe is known to be blessed with dream analogy. Not sure if this is completely factual, but it would explain the intuition part. Recently, I have had the pleasure of assisting a few people with their dreams and dream analogy.
I believe that our dreams serve different purposes.....
Some are Symbolic: These types of dreams are a way for our sub conscience to communicate with us when we are in distress. Many of us have become skilled at suppressing information throughout our day that may be harmful to ourselves, or that may potentially cause us pain. We are completely unaware of this most of the time. Suddenly, you may find yourself having vivid, aggressive dreams. Your sub conscience is trying to reach out to you. Some of the information that you suppress, seeps out of your sub conscience into your dreams. It comes in bits of information and it's up to us to decode it.
The best way to analyze this type of dream: Dream recall is essential. In order to analyze any type of dream, you need to be able to recall the information. Practice dream recall nightly. Once you are able to recall most of the information from your dreams, pick out the things that stand out to you the most. For example, if you recall a certain color "blue" and your dream seem to be really focused on that color, it's likely that the color has some sort of symbolism or meaning to it. Pay attention to the things that stand out most to you. Once you have come up with a few things that stood out in the dream, research their meaning. I suggest: Using dream analogy books, online resources and symbolism. Symbols usually have different meanings than dream meanings. Once you've compiled a list of meanings for your items, see if you can figure out a common denominator.
For example, Dreaming about Fishing+ Water, lets say that both of these elements stood out on their own. A loose interpretation of dreaming about water: To see water in your dream, symbolizes your unconscious and your emotional state of mind. to dream of Fishing: To dream that you are fishing indicates that you are confronting and bringing your repressed emotions to the surface.
The common denominator of these two elements would be "Suppression". The unconscious mind is responsible for hiding and storing information, at the same time, you're fighting to bring your emotions to the surface. What information are you fighting with? what is it that you so badly don't want to confront? Perhaps, this dream is trying to tell you that you have some unresolved issues that need to be acknowledged. For these types of dreams, you need to reflect on the issues of your waking life. Have you been, or are you going through something traumatic? Are you stressed out?
Another type of dream is Religious/Spiritual: Whether you choose to believe in these or not, I believe that they do happen for a reason. The best way to identify these types of dreams, is again to pay attention to the specific elements that your dream allows you to recall. Find the meaning of these elements and again, find the common denominator. This is why I suggest finding the symbolic meaning of elements as well as the dream meaning, both can have two different meanings. Always cross reference your meanings with other sources. Use books, the internet and any other resources that you can get your hands on. Never assume that the first meaning you find, is the correct one.
Some dreams are meant to guide us in the right direction. These dreams often include an animal or familiar face, who acts as our guides. These are very special dreams, they are meant to keep us on our path. Sometimes, we get warnings in our dreams, listen to them carefully. I'm not saying that a passed relative is necessarily trying to communicate a message. I'm saying that we are somehow being warned of things, perhaps by our own instinctive selves.
Other dreams are random. They are just a way for our complicated minds to de clutter. These types of dreams, are just random things with no specific acknowledgment to certain elements. If nothing stands out to you in this dream, it's not anything that needs to be addressed.
As stated previously, this as all completely based on my opinion alone. You don't have to agree with it, or think that it's an exact depiction of your dream world. Perhaps you don't care about your dreams, which is not likely since you have read this far....
Dreams can be quite complicated to decode. It takes practice to dream recall, find the common denominators and find their correct meanings. However, once you have figured things out, it will allow you to cope better with your issues in the waking life (your every day life).
Once you learn to separate dreams from reality, and listen to your sub conscience, you may even be able to understand "lucid dreaming". Some of us have done this without even realizing it, but it's something that can be done on demand with practice......
Lucid Dreaming: Lucid dreaming is defined as dreaming while knowing that you are dreaming. You are literally able to identify as dream as not being your true reality. You will have control over your actions and reactions in this type of dream. I don't know about you, but I love the power of being able to control my own actions, even in a dream state. I have some tips and experience, on the topic of lucid dreaming.
Some resources that I have mentioned for dream meanings: Dream Moods Dictionary: http://www.dreammoods.com/dreamdictionary/a.htm , Signs and Symbols- an illustrated guide to their origins and meanings- Covent Garden Book (book), The element of Encyclopedia of secret signs and symbols- Adele Nozedar (book).
I hope that this information helps decode some of your crazy dreams. Remember, if you find this difficult to do on your own, I'm always happy to help!
Peace
Sig.
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