"On the Run" Power Bar

Whenever my brother and his wife come for a visit I am reminded of the challenges that many people face when traveling. One of them is trying to maintain good healthy nutrition while traveling.

It can be even tougher if you are an athlete, like my brother is. He runs about 60 miles a week. For years I have seen him stock up on Power Bars to meet his nutritional needs while on the run.

Being an advocate of whole, living and nutrient rich foods I finally approached this subject with him a few weeks ago. While power bars can be "the lesser of all evils", I have continued to wonder where is the life force in these foods. They taste like chemicals to me, so artificial. They are prepackaged, processed and full of preservatives.

Much of my health research has gone into the damaging long term effects that these factor can have in creating inflammation and aging in our bodies. So I have had great incentive to create a simple, quick and easy recipe for an "On the Run" ,real food, power bar.

Not to worry, they taste great and there is a chocolate version. They are loaded with foods high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties to enhance and sustain long term energy.......now that's powerful.

I make up a batch, cut them in squares and throw them in the fridge or freezer. They travel well and will fit in a purse or carry on bag.


The Natural Health Maven "On the Run" Power Bar

1 cup dried figs
1/2 cup
1 cup chia seeds...(yes, Chia, like the Pet) one of the most nutrient dense seeds on the planet!
1/2 cup hemp seeds
1/2 sesame seeds
water


optional: you can add some raw cacoa powder, and/or cayenne pepper for a little heat and spice....or put a few drops lemon, orange,or peppermint essential oil for all natural flavor variety.
Soak figs and dates in water until softened., about 1 hour. Drain the fruits and process in a food processor. Slowly add the seeds an pulse to incorporate the mixture. You can play with the amounts ...if it's too sticky add more seeds.

Press the mixture into a pan lined with plastic wrapand chill until firm, at least 1hour. I sometimes toss them in the freezer if I'm in a hurry......Okay, most of the time.

Cut into squares and store in the fridge or freezer. these don't last long in my house so they are usually fine in the fridge.

So simple and so good......superior nutrition for any one on the run.

Prefered Outcomes.......Seeing Your Self Healthy

We live in a world of infinite potential. We need only look around us to see that things we never would have imagined 50 years ago have indeed become manifest as reality.

What does this have to do with health and your well being?
Simple. If you are living with less than perfect health what would you like it to be? What is your preferred outcome?

Yesterday I was reminded of the importance of this. I was also reminded that with our intention we can, and do, create our circumstances. What is your intention for your health and your life?

Many of you know that I am quite outspoken about the state of our health care in the U.S........and not always in an embracing manner.

Yesterday I began my day by dreading the fact that I was going to have to sit in the emergency room of a local hospital for 6+ hours, waiting for my dad to be admitted. I've been a nurse for 20 years. I know the drill. I was all geared up to fight the battle, to deal with confusion, chaos, and incompetence.

And then I caught myself. "Does it have to be this way?' I immediately changed my thoughts and the direction of our day. I said a prayer, called my mastermind partner, and changed the energy around the situation.

From the time we got to the hospital there were nothing but friendly, helpful, efficient people there to serve our needs. But here is the best part. I was so clear, calm, centered and relaxed, I was able to send healing light and love to others that were having a less than desirable experience.

One man stood waiting in the hall for hours, as his wife wretched in pain. No one seemed to be caring or attending to his physical or emotional needs. So I began intending it for him. I saw the nurses bringing him a chair. I visioned a kind soul comforting him. Someone brought him water and a blanket.

And so it went. My dads needs were so well met that I was able to spend the whole time there offering healing energy and thoughts to others in the ER. I sent ease and grace to the staff and the ambulance drivers......I saw them getting raises and appreciation for their skills and efforts. The whole time we were there I just kept sending thoughts of Peace, health, and healing.

I overheard the nurses saying how odd it was that they were filled past capacity but everything was running so smoothly.

What are you experiencing in your body and mind right now. Are you seeing the health you want? Or are you imaging a less than desirable outcome. Are you seeing your health care team as happy, helpful and catering to your needs and wants. Are you asking for what it is you really want?

It is possible to change your health right now, with your intentions and thoughts. Energy follows thought. What you think about with positive emotion will come to pass. What you think about with negative emotion will come to pass. What will you choose today?

For more information on creating your preferred outcomes visit
Mary Robinson Reynolds

" Gas Guzzler" Smoothie Recipe

No doubt some of the recent economic events could take a toll on peoples health.

Here is Natural Health Maven's solution to high gas prices at the pump and home heating fuel increases .

Most everyone has heard that stress can cause digestive troubles in the form of indigestion and, can even lead to ulcers and polyps.

So here is my natural health solution to increased stomach upset or gas. It offers more energy and immune boosting power that you just can't get from Tums, Nexium, or Prilosec. Here is a recipe to put out the fire at the pump, the stomach pump that is.


"GAS GUZZLER" SMOOTHIE RECIPE

1/2 cup fresh apple juice
1 apple, peeled, cored, chopped
1/2 cup fresh papaya
1 handful chlorophyll rich greens or sprouts, (I like pea sprouts and parsley)
1/4 teaspoon crushed cumin seeds ( I grind all my seeds in the coffee mill)
1/4 teaspoon crushed fennel seeds
1/8 teaspoon crushed mustard seeds
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Combine all ingredients in a blender and process til smooth.
Enjoy!

Spiritual Health / Natural Health.....a Prayer for my Country

As the "Natural Health Maven" , I can only do what feels most conducive to health and healing on any given day and encourage, support and empower others I come in contact with.

The best way I know to do this is to hold a higher vision in the present moment. Here is what I do to keep the stress from permeating my life and maintain a grounded, centered presence when the media and politics try to threaten my highest good.

Each morning I include this affirmation/prayer in my meditation. Each day just seems to get better and better. More abundance, health and energy come my way. Now isn't that naturally better for our health than buying into fear and distress?

Believing in the Divine destiny of the United States of America and in the preservation of liberty, security, and self expression for all, I offer this prayer for my country.

" I know that Divine Intelligence governs the destiny of the United States, directing the thought and the activity of all who guide it's affairs.

I know that success, prosperity, and happiness are the gifts of freedom and are the divine heritage of everyone in this country.

I know that success, prosperity, and happiness are now operating in the affairs of every individual in this country.

I know that Divine guidance enlightens the collective mind of the people in this country, causing it to know that economic security may come to all without the loss of either personal freedom or individual self expression.

I know that no one can believe or be led to believe that freedom must be surrendered in order to insure economic security for all.

The All-Knowing Mind contains the answer to every problem which confronts this country. I know that every leader in this country is now directed by this

All -Knowing Mind and has the knowledge of a complete solution to every problem. Each is compelled to act upon this knowledge to the end that abundance, security, and peace shall come to all. And I know that this spiritual democracy shall endure, guaranteeing to everyone in this country personal liberty, happiness, and self expression."

Ernest Holmes

Healthcare Reform~~ Don't miss this!

I was soooo moved and inspired last night by something I listened too.

I gotta share it with you.

As many of you know I have seen some profound transformations since eating a primarily raw , living foods diet.

I continue to study and expand my knowledge. I found that there was just as much "confusing" info and opinions among the raw food experts as there was any where else. I knew I had to do as I've always done and sort it out for myself, and keep within the wisdom of my Ayurvedic and Energy Medicine training.

So last night I tuned in to the free "Rawkathon" webcast, expecting to get a little info, while multitasking a million other things around the house.

Hah! I was mesmerized and glued to my seat. ( I even turned off Desperate House Wives and Brothers & Sisters, that never happens).

I listened to Mike Adams and was so moved. It has less to do with raw foods and more to do with my philosphy about healing our diets, our bodies, our communities, our food chain, and increasing our commitment to sustainability.

Needless to say, although the Rawkathon runs live each night this week, and it's free, the information, integrity and quality of last nights premier left me with no other option but to grab a copy of the discs to have in my reference library.

I wanted to pass this along because it is just that great and as always my purpose for being here on this earth is to educate and empower others to their best, including natural health and vitality. The politicians can talk about healthcare reform but this is where it all starts with us and our choices, and a few visionaries.

====> Here's what you need to do<==========


1.Click on the link below and type in your info.

2..It will take you to a sales page. not necessary to get the live, free presentations all this week.

3. check your email inbox for an email from Kevin Gianni.....click on the link to confirm and get access to the shows. That's it! you can listen each nite this week . Read the email for your instructions and access.

http://www.1shoppingcart.com/app/?Clk=2632262


Let me know what you think, I'll be listening to all of them.

Lotsa love, hugs, and health
Martha

50 is the New 30!!

I'm tooting my own horn here, as I turn 50 today. Doesn't seem possible, doesn't seem any different than yesterday, or two years ago.

Well okay, maybe it does. I'd like to think I am a little bit wiser......and I certainly am more calm and grounded.

So today I'm sharing one of my favorite tips for anti aging!!!

Most often people comment that I look like I'm in my late 30's. I often marvel at this because I think of my wilder days and wonder how I got so lucky to look so good at this age. ( maybe it's just good genes, the spry fella in the photo is my 86 year old father)

I have to attribute it to all the things I've done holistically to make up for the previous damage.

I use to sun with out protection, I used to smoke cigarettes, and it took me a long time to outgrow my college drinking days. After three back surgeries and lots of prescription drugs I thought the side effects would begin to show. But I really believe it's been my passion for natural therapies and whole foods that have kept me in the game of life, with narry a wrinkle.

So if I could give you one natural health tip that I can attribute my anti aging to, it would be super foods and super smoothies!!!!! Healing from the inside out, beauty from the inside out.

so here's my origianal smoothie recipe I made this morning.

"50 is Nifty" Smoothie

8 ounces nutmilk ( home made is best, Almond or Cashew)

3 fresh dates

3 fresh figs ( I buy them fresh and freeze them

1 tablespoon Spirulina powder

1 tablespoon Maca powder

1 cup fresh papaya

1 /2 cup pineapple

1 tsp ground cinnamon

1 small banana

handful of dulse flakes

1 teaspoon Tulsi powder

Whirl in the blender til smooth. Enjoy.

Hhmmm...can I have a little sliver of cake with that?

Talk to you tomorrow,

Martha

Cleansing and Purity

We are just winding down, week three of our Ayurveda Seasonal Cleanse. One more week to go.

This last week we've looked at ways to help our body rid itself of "toxins", or things that no longer serve us.

We are not only cleansing out physical toxins but also mental and emotional beliefs and thoughts that impede us from our highest good, our true self.

One of the ways we "flush" out toxins is with water. So it's only appropriate to wake up and read this piece from the Associated Press wire. Bottled water has never been a good choice. Filtered tap water with essential oils is what we're drinking during our cleanse.

Here is the article:

Tests on leading brands of bottled water turned up a variety of contaminants often found in tap water, according to a study released Wednesday by an environmental advocacy group.
The findings challenge the popular impression — and marketing pitch — that bottled water is purer than tap water, the researchers say.
However, all the brands met federal health standards for drinking water. Two violated a California state standard, the study said.
An industry group branded the findings "alarmist." Joe Doss, president of the International Bottled Water Association, said the study is based on the faulty premise that a contaminant is a health concern "even if it does not exceed the established regulatory limit or no standard has been set."
The study's lab tests on 10 brands of bottled water detected 38 chemicals including bacteria, caffeine, the pain reliever acetaminophen, fertilizer, solvents, plastic-making chemicals and the radioactive element strontium. Though some probably came from tap water that some companies use for their bottled water, other contaminants probably leached from plastic bottles, the researchers said.
"In some cases, it appears bottled water is no less polluted than tap water and, at 1,900 times the cost, consumers should expect better," said Jane Houlihan, an environmental engineer who co-authored the study.
The two-year study was done by the Washington-based Environmental Working Group, an organization founded by scientists that advocates stricter regulation. It found the contaminants in bottled water purchased in nine states and Washington, D.C.
Researchers tested one batch for each of 10 brands. Eight did not have contaminants high enough to warrant further testing. But two brands did, so more tests were done and those revealed chlorine byproducts above California's standard, the group reported. The researchers identified those two brands as Sam's Choice sold by Wal-Mart and Acadia of Giant Food supermarkets.
In the Wal-Mart and Giant Food bottled water, the highest concentration of chlorine byproducts, known as trihalomethanes, was over 35 parts per billion. California's limit is 10 parts per billion or less, and the industry's International Bottled Water Association makes 10 its voluntary guideline. The federal limit is 80.
Wal-Mart said its own studies did not turn up illegal levels of contaminants. Giant Food officials released a statement asserting that Acadia meets all regulatory standards. Acadia is sold in the mid-Atlantic states, so it isn't held to California's standard. In most places, bottled water must meet roughly the same federal standards as tap water.
The researchers also said the Wal-Mart brand was five times California's limit for one particular chlorine byproduct, bromodichloromethane. The environmental group wants Wal-Mart to label its bottles in California with a warning because the chlorine-based contaminants have been linked with cancer. It has filed a notice of intent to sue.
Wal-Mart spokeswoman Shannon Frederick said the company was "puzzled" by the findings because testing by suppliers and another lab had detected no "reportable amounts" of such contaminants. She said Wal-Mart would investigate further but defended the quality of its bottled water.
The researchers recommend that people worried about water contaminants drink tap water with a carbon filter.

Of course they are puzzled and defend their position, would they admit to knowingly selling something that was harming their customers?