Herbal Formula Tinctures
Our formulas are 2 oz. for $21.00
Acne Support Burdock, Black Walnut, Chaparral, Blessed Thistle, Red Clover.		Heart Support Hawthorne Berry, Motherwort, Comfrey root, Ginger, Tienchi Ginseng, Horsetail.
Brain Food Ginkgo, Gota Kola, Blessed Thistle, Siberian Ginseng.		Herpes Help Echinacea, Oregon Grape root, Chaparral, Black Walnut, Myrrh.
BreathEasy Lobelia, Pleurisy, Marshmallow, Mullein, Coltsfoot, Licorice.		Immunity Astragalus, Pau D'Arco, Suma, Dandelion root, Oatstraw, Kelp
Blood Purifer Pau D' Arco, Red Clover, Yellow Dock, Burdock, Sarsaparilla, Dandelion, Cascara Sagada & Buckthorn.		Infection Echinacea, Yarrow, Myrrh, Goldenseal, Black Walnut, Marshmallow, Plantain & Cayenne.
Chill Out Valerian, St. Johns Wort, Passion Flower, Scullcap, Blue Vervain.		Male Power Korean Ginseng, Tienchi Ginseng, American Ginseng, Siberian Ginseng, Mura Puama, Nettle, Astragalus, Saw Palmetto.
Circulation Support Hawthorn berries, Ginger, Angelica, Bayberry Bark, Hyssop, Prickley Ash bark, Cloves, Cayenne.		Menopause Support Wild Yam, Kelp, Chaste Tree, Motherwort, Blue Cohosh, Dong Quai, Red Raspberry, Damiana, Licorice
Colds & Flu Echinacea, Goldenseal, Cayenne.		Mood Support St. Johns Wort, Chamomille, Schizandra, Oatstraw, Avena Sativa.
Cleanse & Detox Burdock Root, Buckthorn Root, Chaparral Leaf, Dandelion Root, Red Clover Blossoms, Cascara Sagrada, Nettle Leaf, Milk Thistle Seeds, Ginger Root.		Mensamends False Unicorn, Dong Quai, Damiana, Red Raspberry, Blessed Thistle, Fo-Ti.
Colds & Flu Echinacea, Goldenseal, Cayenne.		Mood Support St. Johns Wort, Chamomile, Schizandra, Oatstraw, Avena Sativa
Cough Calm Horehound, Elecampane, Comphrey root, Wild Cherry Bark, Eucalyptus, Chickweed, Slippery Elm, Licorice.		Muscle Calm Wild Yam, Black Cohosh, Crampbark, Scullcap, Angelica, Peppermint, Turmeric
Digest Aid Peppermint, Dill seed, Chamomile, Gentian, Fennel, Ginger, Parsley.		Nerve Strength Oatstraw, Black Cohosh, Scullcap, Avena Sativa, Pleurisy root, Catnip, Lobelia.
Echinacea & Goldenseal Echinacea & Goldenseal.		Night Cap Valerian, Hops, Scullcap, Passion Flower.
Echinacea & Oregon Grape root Echinacea & Oregon Grape root.		Passion Muira Puama, Yohimbi, Maca, Avena Sativa, Damiana, Guarana.
Essiac Burdock, Sheep Sorrel, Turkey Rhubarb & Slippery Elm.		PMS Support Dong Quai, Wild Yam, Crampbark, Squawvine, Black Haw, Casteberry, Blue Cohosh.
Eye Strength Bilberry, Eyebright, Red Raspberry.		Prostrate Support Saw Palmetto, Buchu, Parsley root, Hydrangea, Cornsilk, Horsetail, American Ginseng.
Ginseng Energy American, Korean, Siberian & Tienchi Ginseng.		Wake up Kola Nut, Guarana, Damiana, Ginkgo, American Ginseng.
Headache Support White Willow Bark, Feverfew, Chamomile, Peppermint, Scullcap, Catnip, Fenugreek.		Women's Balance Chaste Berry, Dong Quai, Red Raspberry, Dandelion, Blessed Thistle, Gota Kola, Kelp & Licorice.

Herbal Formula Tinctures These are a combination of herbal extract tinctures blended together for specific ailments. The blend the best of single herbs together to create a very potent herbal formula. Choose from: Product Name: Herbal Extract Combinations- 2oz bottles $21.00 Add to Cart Product Name: Herbal Extract Combinations- 4oz bottles $38.00 Add to Cart * Send a Check or Money Order

Herbal Granules Chinese herbs are the most advanced combinations of herbal medicine in the world today. They are combined into a formula, which usually contains between 8 and 12 ingredients. It is the "herbal synergy" that seems to be the strength behind Chinese herbal medicine. These herbs have been ground and put into an easy-to-use container with scoop. They are packed in small quantities to preserve quality and freshness. Utilize these wonderful formulas for treating many disorders and for healing and maintaining a balanced life. Herbal granules come in 100-150 grams per jar . Approximately a two week supply. Simply blend two scoops of granules into hot water to make a tea and drink. These formulations are categorized by disorders and symptoms. Use our simple diagnostic system to choose the proper formula for you. Product Name: Chinese Herbal Granules $35.00 per bottle. Add to Cart * Send a Check or Money Order

Pure Green Energy Powder A concentrated formulation of the super green wholefoods. An easy way to get your greens in our busy life style. Add to our Smoothies to increase your greens or use our capsule machine and make your own green caps. Ingredients: Spirulina, Chlorella, Barley Grass, Wheat Grass, Klamath Blue Green Algae. These ingredients contain the most powerful combination of nutrients ever known in any grain, herb or food. They contain almost all of the vitamins, minerals, proteins and enzymes necessary for the human diet, plus chlorophyll. These necessities are bio-available which means that they are easily assimilated throughout the digestive tract, giving our bodies instant access to vital nutrients. Product Name: Pure Energy Green Powder 3.5 oz $24.00 Add to Cart Product Name: Pure Energy Green Powder 1 lb. $79.95 Add to Cart * Send a Check or Money Order

Pure Energy Smoothie with Green Powder Ingredients: Soy Protein Powder, Bee Pollen Powder, Psyllium Husks, Lecithin Powder, Chlorella, Spirulina, Klamath Blue Green Algae, Barley Grass, Wheat Grass, Alfalfa, Kelp, Acidophilus, and American Ginseng. Just add 1 tablespoon powder to your favorite juice for a delicious and nutritious high energy start to your day. Commonly reported benefits of using our Smoothies include: • All day energy • Greater focus under stress • Sense of well-being • Strengthened immune system • Fewer food cravings • Optimum synergistic balance of essential nutrients for total health Product Name: Pure Energy Smoothie with Green Powder 1 month supply $39.95 Add to Cart Product Name: Pure Energy Smoothie with Green Powder 2 month supply $59.95 Add to Cart * Send a Check or Money Order

Cleansing Smoothie with Green Powder A Natural Cleansing Formula for a Healthy Digestive System. Ingredients: Psyllium Husks, Lecithin, Chlorella, Spirulina, Barley Grass, Wheat Grass, Dandelion, Red Clover, Milk Thistle, Buckthorn, Burdock, Cascara Sagrada & Acidophilus. Just add 1 tablespoon to your favorite juice for a gentle cleansing effect. Most natural health practitioners agree that periodic internal cleansing is an essential key to radiant health. Maintaining a healthy digestive system is the goal of a regular cleansing program. Without a proper functioning digestive system we are unable to absorb the nutrients we eat or effectively or eliminate toxins that our bodies generate. Pure Energy Cleansing Smoothie contains a combination of fiber, nutrients and herbs to gently support the body's natural cleansing process. One of the many benefits of regularly cleansing your system and nourishing it is weight loss and reduced appetite. Many people also report improved skin condition and energy levels. Product Name: Cleansing Smoothie with Green Powder 1 month supply $39.95 Add to Cart Product Name: Cleansing Smoothie with Green Powder 2 month supply $59.95 Add to Cart * Send a Check or Money Order

The Peacefulmind Complete Detox System Cleansing your body from the inside out is a great place to start for beautiful, clear skin! We are proud of this wonderful system which includes: • Information on WHY we detox our system • HOW to gently cleansing your organs •WHEN to detox your system in order to maximize your body's healing potential. We include: • Andrew's booklet: "100 Ways to Detox Safely and Naturally" • Internal cleansing and detoxification recipes • 4 oz Detox AromaThera-Tea: This powerful formula will help remove accumulated toxins in the body. Strong antioxidant, cleanses the colon, reduces cramps, and stimulates circulation. Rosehips, Red Clover, Ginger, Nettle, Alfalfa, Dandelion, Goldenseal Leaf, Echinacea, Pan D'Arco, Burdock, Clove, Stevia. • A Tea Ball for a single cup of tea • French Tea Press to brew up to 4 cups of tea at a time • Our Angel's Mist Essential Oil Detox Bath Blend : this phenomenal blend of essential oils helps in detoxing the lungs and the body's largest organ: the skin. Product Name:The Peacefulmind Complete Detox System- $59.95 Add to Cart * Send a Check or Money Order

SinuCleanse - For Easier Breathing Natural, drug-free relief of nasal congestion. The complete SinuCleanse Sinus system is a gentle and effective method of nasal irrigation for adults and children. Developed by a leading Ear Nose and Throat Physician who was inspired by the "Neti Pot", a similarly designed tool made from fragile ceramic or glass. Used for general nasal cleaning and nasal problems - shown to improve the function of the nasal lining and speed the transport of mucus through the nose. Made of unbreakable, dishwasher-safe, FDA-approved plastic. Comes complete with 10 pre-mixed natural saline solution packets and instructions. Product Name: SinuCleanse - For Easier Breathing $29.95 Add to Cart * Send a Check or Money Order

Seasonal Asian Teas Our Asian Herbal Teas imported direct from China, are aromatic herbal teas ready to be brewed into a delicious, healing cup of goodness! This soothing organic tea has been grown and cared for under the strict standards of the State Drug Administration of China. They contain no preservatives, pharmaceuticals or artificial colors. This is a specific blend of tonic herbs that yield about 4 cups of tea, which are taken over 2 days time. Choose from: Spring, Summer, Late Summer, Fall, Winter. Product Name: Seasonal Asian Tea $9.95 Add to Cart * Send a Check or Money Order

Herbal Teas * Herbal teas are the easiest form of herbal remedy for long term use. The herb's powerful ingredients are either "infused" or "decocted" in water when made into teas. * It is crucial that we care for our bodies before we encounter illness. These herbal teas are made from the freshest herbs, organically grown. These are LOOSE teas. Loose tea is more aromatic and contains all the parts of the medicinal portions of an herb, unlike tea bags, which, for the most part, contain only the left over portions of the herb. * These herbal teas are hand-crafted, grown, and blended in small quantities to preserve quality and assure freshness. Only the finest quality herbs are used in these products. * Loose teas look and smell better, and naturally disperse stronger flavor and medicinal properties better. FREE TEA INFUSER BALL with 1 lb tea purchase!! Enjoy these powerful blends of our freshest quality herbs in ready-blended teas and tea prescriptions for optimum health! Visit Our Herbal Tea Page

Tea Basket Sampler Tea is the most popular drink in the world! This is wonderful chance to experience a variety of our unique tea blends! We have created an herbal tea sampler to enhance your mind, body and spirit! This delightful gift set includes 4 tea variations such as our Aromathera-Tea Remedy Blends, convenient Herbal Granule Tea, the Asian Tea Collection and our ever popular Metaphysical Tea. This includes a Gemstone Tea Ball, a 4 cup French Tea Press and our Tea Booklet with infusion instructions, tea stories and "how to make a perfect cup of tea"! Product Name: Tea Basket Sampler $49.95 Add to Cart * Send a Check or Money Order

French Tea Press This beautiful 4 cup French Press is made of sturdy chrome and heat resistant glass. This is fantastic for brewing more than one cup of tea using our fresh, loose herbs. Add desired amount of herbs into press. 1-3 teaspoons per cup. Boil water. Pour water into press. Place cover over. Steep for 5-10 min. Then, hold handle with one hand, and press top down slowly with other hand, pressing herbs to bottom. Product Name: French Herbal Tea Press $35.00 Add to Cart * Send a Check or Money Order

Spring Herbal Medicine Chest

Spring brings cleansing and rejuvenation. Most often the liver is the target of a cleansing herbal regimen, since the liver is one of the most important organs in the body. It processes our hormones, contributes to proper digestion, cleanses the body of toxins, and many other important duties. A good cleansing regimen, however, will also cleanse and support other vital organs, such as heart, kidneys, blood, and digestive system. It will also do wonderful things for your spirit! It is vital to consume lots of water, with lemon is ideal, and get fresh air to flush these toxins out of your system.

DANDELION ROOT: Dandelion Root can be made into a bitter tea (don’t sweeten it, the bitterness is how it works – you’ll get use to it) as an excellent tonic for the liver and blood purifier. Dandelion roots are very high in vitamins and minerals. The common dandelion is an unusually nutritious food. Its leaves contain substantial levels of vitamins A, C, D, and B complex as well as iron, magnesium, zinc, potassium, manganese, copper, choline, calcium, boron, and silicon. Worldwide, the root of the dandelion has been used for the treatment of a variety of liver and gallbladder problems. Other historical uses of the root and leaves include the treatment of breast diseases, water retention, digestive problems, joint pain, fever, and skin diseases. The most active constituents in dandelion appear to be eudesmanolide and germacranolide, substances unique to this herb.

MILK THISTLE: Milk Thistle is the best in cleaning our blood and liver and is a traditional way to get our health back on track and revitalize and nourish our entire internal ecological system from the ravages of winter. Milk Thistle is an excellent cleansers for the liver. Cleansing is one of the more important roles of Milk Thistle as it helps to prevent a host of problems our bodies can acquire from internal and external toxic overload.

BURDOCK ROOT : Burdock root helps to purify blood and restore the liver to aid in a restful sleep. Helps to reduce build up of toxins in the skin resulting in boils. Helps gallbladder functions and stimulates the immune system. Seed forms are also used.

NETTLE: Nettles are invaluable as a food, rich in vitamins and minerals. Only the young, tender tips are suitable for cooking, the stalks and lower leaves are not edible. They can be cooked then pureed for soup or vegetable accompaniment. Nettles make a valuable tonic after the winter and are an excellent remedy for Anemia, their vitamin C content ensures that the iron they contain is properly absorbed. Nettles increase the quality of the blood helping to give a healthy glow to the skin.

YELLOW DOCK : Yellow Dock is applicable to all the purposes for which the other species are used. The root has laxative, alterative and mildly tonic action, and can be freely used as a tonic and laxative in rheumatism, bilious complaints and as an astringent in piles, bleedings of the lungs, etc. It is largely prescribed for diseases of the blood, from a spring eruption, to scurvy, scrofula and chronic skin diseases. It is also useful in jaundice and as a tonic to the stomach and the system generally. It has an action on the bowels very similar to that of Rhubarb, being perhaps a little less active, but operating without pain or uneasiness. Rumicin is the active principle of the Yellow Dock, and from the root, containing Chrysarobin, a dried extract is prepared officially, of which from 1 to 4 grains may be given for a dose in a pill. This is useful for relieving a congested liver, as well as for scrofulous skin diseases.

ECHINACEA : First used by the Indigenous North Americans who harvested the plants for extensive use in the treatment of infectious wounds and burns or eruptive skin complaints. It enhances the phagocytic activity of white blood cells- identifying and retiring bacterial, viral and fungal infections, in addition to the clearance of these from the lymphatic system. Higher doses are often used for affecting acute immune responses.

ASTRAGALUS : To be used after colds or infection to rebuild immunity, Astragalus is a sweet tasting herb effective in restoring both resilience to future respiratory infections, and efficiency of metabolism to ensure optimal nutrition for immune reserves to fight off those spring colds. This herb is the best for restoring energy to the body very quickly.

GARLIC : Garlic was worshipped by the ancient Egyptians, chewed by Greek Olympian athletes and thought to be essential for keeping vampires at bay! But it is also good for zapping bacteria, keeping your heart healthy, warding off coughs and colds. Garlic is an antibiotic that can actually kill infecting bacteria and at the same time protect the body from the poisons that are causing the infection. It is known that the most sensitive bacterium to garlic is the deadly Bacillus anthracis which produces the poison anthrax. Vapor from freshly cut garlic can kill bacteria at a distance of 20 cms!

MARSHMALLOW : Marshmallow stimulates the immune system and the production of white blood cells. It also soothes inflammation, slows production of mucus, and reduces sugar levels in the body.

Spring Essential Oils

Spring is a time of new beginnings, new growth, planting seeds, purification, and for clearing out the old. Following the rhythms of nature and developing harmony with the ways in which nature cares for itself, we can also create balance within our own lives. Trees, plants, grasses and seeds that have laid still throughout the winter slowly emerge from their dormancy. Buds develop and grow into new leaves and flowers, plants and grasses emerge through the ground from their resting roots, and seeds sprout; all from the extended sunlight, warmth, rains, and fall’s nourishment.

Jasmine
Jasmine is a bold, sweet scent. Jasmine is the greatest aphrodisiac of all. These night blooming flowers are picked at their height to bring out one of the most sexy scents. Associated throughout history with the compassionate Goddess of the Moon, Jasmine, grown along the Nile in ancient Egypt, is represented Isis, the Egyptian Mother Goddess who held the secrets of fertility, magic and healing.

Patchouli
Patchouli is a sweet, earthy scent. Its smell is intense and spicy. From an energetic point of view, Patchouli, like Jasmine, is warm and yet anti-inflammatory in action. It combines a calmative property with a gentle stimulating effect that uplifts the spirit! Patchouli is a sweet and grounding harmonizing fragrance!

Neroli
Neroli is distilled from bitter orange trees. It has a refreshing, spicy aroma and is known for its sensual, exotic effect. Neroil oil is emotionally unifying and soothes with harmonizing effects. Described as both sensual and spiritual, Neroli helps to restablish the link between a disconnected mind and body. Neroli paves the way for a gradual release and allows us to recall hope and joy!

Rose
The Mother of All Flowers, the Rose has amazing powers of love, trust and self acceptance. Roses are representative of faith, hope and love and has the qualities to restore the very center of one's being. A gentle tonic of the heart, Rose oil's psychological properties lie mainly in its effect on the mind, the center of our emotional being. Rose oil calms and supports the heart and helps to nourish the soul!

Peppermint
Peppermint oil is the most extensively used of all the volatile oils, both medicinally and commercially. The characteristic anti-spasmodic action of the volatile oil is more marked in this than in any other oil, and greatly adds to its power of relieving pains arising in the alimentary canal. From its stimulating, stomachic and carminative properties, it is valuable in certain forms of dyspepsia, being mostly used for flatulence and colic. It may also be employed for other sudden pains and for cramp in the abdomen; wide use is made of Peppermint in cholera and diarrhea.

Lemon
Lemon is a fresh sunny scent that is cold pressed from the rind itself! Lemon has antiseptic-like properties and contains compounds that have been studied for their effects on immune function. It may serve as an insect repellent and may be beneficial for the skin. Diffuse it in your house for a fresh alternative to air spays. It compliments the Oil of Oregano to neutralize the over growth of Candida. Put a few drops on a tissue and vacuum it into your vacuum bag to freshen the smell of your carpets and furniture coverings. 1 drop is also very refreshing and purifying when taken in a glass of water.

Eucaluptus
Eucalyptus was first employed by Australian aborigines, who not only chewed the roots for water in the dry outback but used the leaves to treat fever, cough, and asthma, and European settlers quickly adopted it as medicine. You can also use a few drops of eucalyptus oil in boiling water or in a bath as an inhalant. Eucalyptus is often used for - Sore muscles, Insect repellant, Tension headache, Cold, Cough, Sinusitis, Rheumatoid arthritis, and Strains/sprains.

Orange
Orange essential is obtained from the rind of the fruit and used principally as a flavoring agent Orange oil is an antidepressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative, digestive, febrifuge, phototoxic sedative, tonic. Orange oil helps spreads sunshine on gloomy thoughts and depression, has a very comforting and warming effect and dispels tension and stress and helps revive when feeling low on energy. Orange oil calms the stomach both for constipation and diarrhea. Stimulates bile which helps digestion of fats. Has a beneficial effect on colds, bronchitis and fever. Helps with the formation of collagen - vital for tissue repair and hair growth. Also helpful with muscular pains. Helps anxiety and insomnia. Possibly reduces blood cholesterol levels. Orange oil helps dry skin conditions softening wrinkles and dermatitis. An excellent skin tonic. Orange oil can make the skin photosensitive to sunlight.

Spring Detoxification

Detoxifying is the process of releasing accumulated toxins and waste products that build up throughout our system. From birth, we are bombarded by toxins, externally from environmental sources. Internally, our organs give off waste products that accumulate in our body. Imbalanced emotions also play a part in polluting our system with excess chemicals such as free radicals, homocysteine and cortisol.

Detoxifying is, in many ways, an easy process. Our body does much of the detoxification process through urination, defecation and perspiration. As our bodies age and our immune systems weaken from illness, poor diet and/or addictive substances, we sometimes need to give our system an extra helping hand. That is why conscious detoxing is great way back to optimum health.

One of the best ways to start your detoxification is with the body's biggest organ, the SKIN. A detox diet strengthens the organs involved in detoxification and releases stored toxins, expelling them through the organs of elimination: the skin, as well as the intestines, liver, lungs, kidneys, and lymphatic system.

TIPS FOR DETOXING

1. Eating a diet that focuses on fresh vegetables and fruits.

2. Eat whole grains, legumes, nuts and seeds.

3. Adopt a healthy lifestyle including regular exercise.

4. Avoiding drugs and alcohol.

5. Taking a high potency multiple vitamin and mineral supplement.

6. Take nutritional/herbal supplements to protect and enhance liver function.

7. Go on a three day fast, four times per year.

8. Fasting at the change of the seasons is a good rule to remember.

9. Take care of your skin and know your skin type.

10. Consider a self empowering affirmation to clear your mind.

Spring and Traditional Chinese Medicine

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, we have a healing methodology called the 5 Phases (Elements). In the Spring the weather is starting to warm up by the change in the sun's position. The botanical world is making its renewal known through growth and upheaval. The energy of the season is rising upward and outward and expressing itself with the freshness of a new start. This new growth is what is represented by the element of Wood.

The Spring is the time when the climate is represented by Wind. Wind Cold imbalances are those in which wind and cold play a role in disease. The Liver and Gall Bladder systems are the most vulnerable at this time. These imbalances are often expressed as hepatitis and cases of pink eye which, in TCM stems back to imbalances in the Liver and Gallbladder systems. The Liver governs the workings of the sinews and muscles and imbalances are more apparent at this time of year. The sound associated with Spring is shouting, while the emotion most prevalent tends to be anger. By being prepared with this knowledge, it allows us to be in tune with our own body systems and shows how our health can be influenced by nature.

Strengthening the immune system should be a part of any seasonal ritual! Any tonic formula that regulates Qi, nourishes the eyes and tendons and tonifies the liver is appropriate. Remember, the best form of medicine, is preventative. Consider Andrew's great Spring Tonic Tea.

Learn how to heal with the seasons and how Traditional Chinese Medicine will help you find remedies and bring your body back into balance!

The Liver and Gallbladder

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, The liver and gallbladder are associated with Spring. They belong to the element of Wood. The Liver "system" is the "farmer who cultivates". It stores blood, governs and regulates the blood, organizes the "free flow" of Qi energy to promote circulation which cultivates our emotions, soothes digestion, regulates menstruation and bile secretion. The liver changes harmful toxins into substances, which can be eliminated safely by the colon or kidneys. The liver is our master cleansing organ and the gall bladder is its mate. Enjoy a tall glass of water with a 1/2 lemon squeezed into it.

The Gallbladder system in Chinese Medicine is associated stores and excretes bile (as in Western medicine). The Gallbladder governs decision making and gives the courage and capacity to make decisions. Like the Liver, the Gallbladder controls the sinews by encouraging the Qi to the fascia. The Gallbladder also has an effect on our dreams. It is said that the Gallbladder effects the quality and length of sleep, if it is deficient, a person will wake very early and not be able to return to sleep. The Gallbladder's close relationship to the Liver is not only anatomical but they both play an essential role in the smooth flow of Qi throughout the body. In order to plan a good life (which is a function of the Liver), one needs good decision making skills (which is a function of the Gallbladder).

The Liver is the major organ treated in Chinese Medicine. It is the organ that rules the free flow of Qi. The primary symptoms of Liver Qi Stagnation include frequent sighing; inpatients, anger and temper outbreaks, a sensation of fullness or congestion in the chest, intercostal, or subcostal regions. Secondary symptoms include obstructed bowel movements; dry and distended eyes; feeling of something being stuck in the throat; self-doubts and crying; pain (especially intercostal and abdominal) that is characterized by moving, pulling, or penetrating sensations; in females; premenstrual breast distention; menstrual cramping and irregular menstruation.

The Wood Element

The element, Wood is associated with the Spring season and with wind.

The element is associated with the liver and the gallbladder, which regulates the smooth flow of Qi energy throughout the body and has a strong relationship with the reproductive organ system and the ability to nourish the body with blood.

Emotionally, wood allows you to be adaptable to life. It is the creativeness of the wood element that gets expressed when we are at our most artistic. Spring is the new life energy of growth, renewal and the life force sprouting upward and outward. Wood allows you to make a plan and stay true to that plan. It also allows you to be flexible, like a willow and adapt to the circumstances that intercept your plans and expectations.

Psychologically, wood is the element that represents our growth. Too much wood in the environment can produce excess growth, as in when a relationship moves too quickly or a business starts growing too fast without a strong foundation. Not enough wood in the environment and the results is expressed as stagnation or barrenness. Wood represents our creative urge to achieve, which can turn to anger, when frustrated. The wood element represents all the activities of the body that are self regulating and/or function without conscious thought such as heart beat, digestion, respiration and metabolism.

The Solar Plexus Chakra is in the third in the Chakra system and represents our power and will and autonomy, as well as our metabolism. When healthy, this Chakra brings us energy, effectiveness, spontaneity, and non-dominating power. It is your center of will. This Chakra deals with the human ego, emotions and self-love. Intuition is believed to begin in the area of our Solar Plexus Chakra. Although, the Third Eye Chakra is most associated with intuition, the "spark" is what is felt in the area of our solar plexus.

Spring Depression

The Vernal Equinox can be a very uneasy time for the human psyche. Patterns of sleep and energy have a tendency to shift back and forth with uncertainty. Mood swings from high to low, changes in eating patterns, fluctuating temperatures outside and the urge to "run away from it all" add stress to the mind and body and tend to occur when there are equal parts of both daylight and darkness. In Traditional Chinese Medicine , Anger is the emotion associated with Spring, and for good reason. Seasonal studies done at the National Institute of Mental Health in Maryland have shown, dramatic mood changes coincide with changes from the darkness of Winter to the extended light of Spring. Melatonin is a hormone in our body that helps to regulate our moods and energy. With increased light, melatonin decreases in our body. Decreased melatonin means higher and lower levels of mood and energy. Tempers can flare rapidly triggered by rapid mood changes. Faster changes increase good and bad impulse behavior.

We move from hibernation to growth in less than weeks. Increased mood and energy fluctuation brings with it lust, lethergy and love! According to the World Health Organization, conception is highest in April and May. Romance blooms. Energies that have been suppressed for months have a tendency to now move to the surface, equivalent to the growth of Spring flowers bursting forth.

For many people, the end of Winter brings an end to isolation and 'Winter Blues', brought about by lack of sunlight and cold weather. But, as Spring comes and wanes into Summer, some people will find their 'blues' or depression unchanged. Then, even stronger feeling of hopelessness follow. The US Center for Disease Control found that between 1969 and 1999, suicides were seasonal. Findings showed that feelings of suicide are above average all Spring and below average in Winter. This is contrary to beliefs that suicides are the highest during the Christmas holidays. The British Journal of Psychiatry agrees. They report that the pre-summer peak in suicides reflect the hope among the unhappy and lonely who seek change with Spring, but often feel no different as the Summer draws near.

Depression is the most prevalent of all the emotional disorders. Symptoms may vary from feelings of minor sadness to sheer misery and dejection. When sadness persists and impairs daily life, it maybe an indication of a depressive disorder. Depression brings together a variety of physical and psychological symptoms which together constitute a syndrome.

"Melancholia" which was, for centuries the encompassing name for all emotional disorders is considered Major Depression. Clinically, in major depression, five symptoms on a daily basis for at least two weeks are considered a diagnosis.

The most common symptoms of depression are feelings of acute sense of loss, inexplicable sadness, loss of energy and loss of interest. The patient usually feels tired and lacks interest in the world around him. Sleep disturbance is frequent. Usually the patient wakes up depressed and is unable to return to sleep. Other disturbed sleep patterns are difficulty in falling asleep, nightmares or repeated waking. Often, emotions of guilt, oppressive feelings and self-absorption are apart of this syndrome. Cases of severe depression may also be characterized by low body temperature, low blood pressure, hot flushes and shivering.

For help with depression, find alternative answers at http://www.peacefulmind.com/depression.htm

Anger

Anger is the feeling we experience when events in our world are not going according to our plans. Anger is one of the most common and destructive delusions affecting our minds. Because it is based on an exaggeration, anger is an expression of our belief system and how we defend it. It's as if we have an inner idea of how things, events and people should be for us. When we get angry and either feel frustrated or try to change them, we tend to give away our power! Many of us remain a victim to our tempers all of our lives. In essence, anger is the feeling we get when we want to control the world around us.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine, anger is most prevalent in the Spring. It is considered the emotion of Spring. Although we can and do experience anger at any time or season, it is Spring when we are most easily angered. This is believed to be due to the changes of light and dark and the balance between them.

It is very important to identify the actual cause of whatever unhappiness we feel. If we are forever blaming our difficulties on others, this is a sure sign that there are still many problems and faults within our own mind. If we were truly peaceful inside and had our mind under control, difficult people or circumstances would not be able to disturb this peace, and so we would feel no compulsion to blame anyone or regard them as our enemy. To someone who has subdued his or her mind and eradicated the last trace of anger, all beings are friends.

Techniques for Managing Anger

1. The first step towards managing anger, is to identify which attitudes and convictions that many predispose us to being excessively angry in the first place! Once these beliefs have been identified, it is important to take steps to understand and correct them, if need be.

2. The second step is to realize that anger is a natural human emotion and it is not the emotion of anger that tends to be a problem. The problem is the mismanagement of our anger. Mismanaged anger and rage are the major cause of conflicts in our lives. This mismanagement often has roots from our childhood that prevents us from expressing our anger as appropriately as we should. These factors include fear, denial, ignorance and impatience. These factors can derail the appropriate management of our anger towards others. Learning to understand and change these factors in ourselves, will allow us to express our suppressed anger in a more appropriate way.

3. The third step is learning the appropriate ways of expressing our " honest and legitimate" anger at others so that we can begin to cope more effectively with anger provoking situations as they come up in our lives. When we are anxious or depressed, we are often experiencing the consequences of our suppressed anger. The problem is that we have suppressed our anger so deeply that we succeeded in concealing it from our own selves! All we are left with is the residual evidence of it, our anxiety or our depression. When we are depressed, very often we are also angry at ourselves without realizing it. Learning to appropriately manage our anger at ourselves is the antidote to much of alcoholism, drugs and sexual abuse.

4. The fourth step in the Anger Management process is to approach anger by taking responsibility for our own reactions and behavior. We can do this by addressing our anger with the following coping techniques:

1. Listen to other people, first: listen carefully to what is being said. Do not have a preconceived opinion before you hear what is being said. Remember, everyone is entitled to their own opinion.

2. Think carefully about what you want to say: before you say it. slow down. What is the underlying factor in your anger? Fear, denial, impatience?

3. Be clear about what you are going to express.: Your objective is not to belittle, berate, be sarcastic or attack someone, because their opinion is different than yours.

4. If their statement is pushing your anger button: know why! Try to understand the root of your own anger. Look at why they have formed such an opinion.

5. Express yourself by saying: "I feel angry with (you, them, this situation) because..." Stay calm in the face of your own and the other person's anger. The worse thing to do if someone is angry toward you is to shout back at them! Be patient and ask questions to get to the heart of problem. Try being carefully assertive, rather than aggressive.

6. Make lifestyle changes. Making small changes in your life can allow you to reap great rewards.

7. Get regular exercise: This can help to prevent the accumulation of tension and will give you regular time away from everyday stress.

8. Learn relaxation exercises such as yoga and meditation. These forms of exercise will help to release tension in a controlled, healthy way.

9. Change your environment. Find alternatives for situations which add stress to your life. Schedule time to relax and unwind.

10. Learn to express your feelings: either by talking to a friend or by venting feelings in other ways, perhaps creatively through painting, journaling or taking on a new hobby.

Forgiveness

The need to understand the power and place of forgiveness in our world is important in the healing process. It is urgent that we examine the steps that lead to justice and strengthen society. We need to understand how forgiveness improves the human condition. How do we choose to forgive? What are the effects of holding grudges and seeking revenge? We can find a way to balance our need for security with the potential for granting forgiveness. Forgiveness offers the possibility of two types of peace: peace of mind -- the potential healing of old emotional wounds, and peace with others -- the possibility of new, more gratifying relationships in the future.

Patience

Patience is a mind that is able to accept, fully and happily, whatever occurs. It is much more than just gritting our teeth and putting up with things. Being patient means to welcome wholeheartedly whatever arises, having given up the idea that things should be other than what they are. It is always possible to be patient; there is no situation so bad that it cannot be accepted patiently, with an open, accommodating, and peaceful heart.When patience is present in our mind it is impossible for unhappy thoughts to gain a foothold.

There are many examples of people who have managed to practice patience even in the most extreme circumstances, such as under torture or in the final ravages of cancer. Although their body was ruined beyond repair, deep down their mind remained at peace. By learning to accept the small difficulties and hardships that arise every day in the course of our lives, gradually our capacity for patient acceptance will increase and we shall come to know for ourselves the freedom and joy that true patience brings.

De-Cluttering, Cleansing and Feng Shui

1. Cleansing the Body

This is one of three processes that should be done 4 times a year. Using the seasons as a guide, allows us to work with the "flow of nature" and change as our bodies change. Consider a healthy detox or work with the power of an herbal cleanser.
Here is a nice Detoxification Bath to get you started:


Detoxification Bath
2 Cups Sea Salt
2 Cups Baking Soda
4 Tbsp. Ginger Powder
Place all ingredients in a hot bath and bathe for 20 Minutes
Drink plenty of water. This bath withdraws impurities from your body
and helps you to feel better. This bath can be done
2 to 3 times in a week or as needed.


Psyllium is a bulk-forming laxative and is high in both fiber and mucilage. Psyllium seeds contain 10-30% mucilage. The laxative properties of psyllium are due to the swelling of the husk when it comes in contact with water. This forms a gelatinous mass and keeps the feces hydrated and soft. The resulting bulk stimulates a reflex contraction of the walls of the bowel, followed by emptying.

De-cluttering the space around you can make all the difference in the way you feel. Start small. Try organizing a drawer or desk, your closet or one room in your house, first. Then move on to a bigger project. Learn the secrets to de-cluttering and re-organizing your life with the proponents of Feng Shui

2. Cleansing the Mind

This is the 2nd in the trilogy. Learn how to think in "affirmations" that are positive! These are statements that you make either aloud or to yourself. Always approve and accept yourself. You cannot love yourself unless you first, approve of and accept yourself.

A disciplined mind is a free mind. Gain control over your thoughts and you maintain control over your life. Retrain your mind and you regain your freedom. Calming the mind is a behavioral technique used to interrupt, minimize and eliminate "psychological noise". Obsessive, repetitive thoughts, anxiety and fears are all apart of negative, self-destructive patterns that can benefit from the positive affirmations and mind quieting.


"Love Thy Self"
I am perfect, whole and complete NOW, the way I am.
I deserve all that I require.
I am worthy, loveable and strong.

3. Cleansing the Spirit

This is a life long lesson and third in the trilogy. Utilize the strength of yoga therapy. What is your belief system ? Does it serve you well? How about discovering some great meditations !
The Sun Salutation in yoga is a great wakening and cleansing exercise. This is a flowing combination of some of the asanas in hatha yoga.

Sun Salutation
Stand in Tadasana, take a deep breath, clasp thumbs in front of you
and raise arms in front of you over head. Arch back from the waist.
Now, fold over at the waist as you exhale, placing palms on the
floor, Uttanasana, step your right leg back into Lunge, step your
left leg back to Plank, come into Bhujangasana, flow into Adho Mukha
Svanasana, step your right foot forward to Lunge, left foot forward
for Uttanasana, inhale up to Tadasana. Repeat, stepping your left leg
back into Lunge.


Cleansing Meditation

Breath is life! Exchange of electrons. Flow of energy. Air is the
primary nutrient. Survival without it is measured in minutes. It is
so important that you do it without thinking. Your breathing is the
voice of your spirit. It's depth, smoothness, sound, and rate reflect
your mood. If you become aware of your breath and breathe the way you
do when you are calm you will become calm. Practicing regular,
mindful breathing can be calming and energizing. With the addition of
music and it's rhythm, the "musical breath" can even help stress-
related health problems ranging from panic attacks to digestive
disorders. Fall into the rhythm of the music and breathe. Focus on
your breathing and the music.

Focusing on the breath is one of the most common and fundamental
techniques for accessing the meditative state. Breath is a deep
rhythm of the body that connects us intimately with the world around
us.
Close your eyes, breathe deeply and regularly, and observe your
breath as it flows in and out of your body. Give your full attention
to the breath as it comes in, and full attention to the breath as it
goes out. Whenever you find your attention wandering away from your
breath, gently pull it back to the rising and falling of the breath.
Inhale through your nose slowly and deeply, feeling the lower chest
and abdomen inflate like a balloon. Hold for five seconds. Exhale
deeply, deflating the lower chest and abdomen like a balloon. Hold
for five seconds. Do this three or four times, then allow your
breathing to return to a normal rhythm. You will begin to feel a
change come over your entire body. Gradually you will become less
aware of your breathing, but not captured in your stream of thoughts.
You will become more centered inward. You will just "be there."

The Full Spectrum Diet

As a Nationally Certified Herbalist and Licensed practitioner of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine, Andrew Pacholyk, MS, L.Ac. has spent years developing a natural healthcare plan, which incorporates the benefits of fresh, full spectrum foods based on their color and their properties. A balance of attractive colors in the foods we eat, play an instinctual part as to what the body needs in the moment. The color energy of fruits, vegetables, vitamins and minerals all come into play when furnishing our bodies with the proper nourishment. Learn more about how to implement Andrew's outstanding "Full Spectrum Diet" into your lifestyle!

References

What is your experience with seasonal healing? Sharing your own experiences often helps others. We'd love to know in the Peacefulmind Community.

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