Category: Health

A Lucky Shake for St. Patrick’s Day! (Hold the Polysorbate 80, Please!)

It’s time for me to fess-up a bit here.

I work in a health food store but haven’t always eaten healthy. When I was a kid, I used to look forward to seasonal holiday treats from fast food chains. My all-time favorite was when March would roll around. My mom would take my brother and I to our favorite fast food place for a St. Patrick’s Day-inspired shake we’d order off their seasonal menu. This was so cool because the shake was a lovely shade of bright green and tasted like sweet minty goodness.

I carried this tradition into my teenage years with my friends and then into early adulthood. That is, until I woke up to how the food I was eating was effecting my health. Let me shed a little light on exactly what is in this green cup of “goodness”. According to the nutritional facts for the shake listed on the company’s website, the shake includes the following ingredients:

Phew… still with me? That is an awfully long list that leaves me with a few questions: Why is it called whipped “topping” and not whipped cream? And why does the cherry have a list of ingredients- isn’t it just a cherry? Also, do green sugar crystals grow out of the ground? Might I add that there isn’t actually any mint in this minty-tasting beverage?

As if this wasn’t enough information to scare you away, check out the nutritional facts associated with a small and large shake:

That’s why we created the Lucky Mint Chip Shake – available at both of our locations for a limited time. Our shake uses none of the above and is actually healthy and naturally energizing and detoxifying. Here’s OUR ingredients: At Basil Bandwagon, we think everyone should be able to enjoy a holiday treat without having to dowse themselves in artificial colorings, flavorings and 3 days-worth of sugar in one glass.

Organic Banana

Organic Spinach

Spirulina

Organic Mint Leaves/Extract

Organic Coconut Milk

Organic Cacao Nibs

Come visit our café to enjoy this delicious shake today!

March 6, 2017
How to Make your own Immune Boosting Tonic
Jenna shows you how to throw together your own Immune Boosting Tonic full of virus-busting goodness!

Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 medium onion, peeled and rough chopped
- 1 head of garlic, peeled and rough chopped
- 3 inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon dried echinacea root
- Apple cider vinegar (organic with “the mother”)
- Raw organic honey
- 2 teaspoons ground cayenne pepper
- cheese cloth (enough to cover the top of the jar with a couple layers)
- A large glass container of some sort. We used a quart-sized mason jar.
Step by Step Instructions
1. Place onion, garlic, ginger and echinacea root in a mason jar.
2. Add apple cider vinegar to cover the herbs.
3. Cover with cheese cloth and screw on the band to hold it tight. (don’t use the lid portion- your tonic needs air!)
4. Leave in the jar for 2-3 weeks, preferably in a sunny or slightly warm place.
5. Strain and discard the herbs.
6. Mix with equal parts raw honey and add cayenne powder.
7. Store in the fridge and take 1 teaspoon as needed daily or whenever you start to feel run down.
There is more you can do with this tonic:

• Immune Boosting Tonic is amazing alone- BUT there are some fun ways to use it:

• Use it to make a quick Bloody Mary: add to a mixture of tomato juice spirit of you choice

• It’s a super FLAVOR boost for soups and sauces. It’s the not-so-secret ingredient in my chicken soup and a fix-it for spaghetti sauce that needs a little kick.

• Bone Broth to the MAX: add this to your bone broth!
February 14, 2017
Heart Health Favorites

February is Heart Health month! It’s a good idea to take care of your ticker, and there’s plenty of easy and tasty ways to do so.

Oats

That bowl of oatmeal you had for breakfast might be more powerful than you think. Oats contain beta-glucan, a potent soluble fiber with blood sugar regulating benefits. Oats are also high in Vitamin E, which has long been found to be a protective vitamin for the heart.

Lentils

Beans, beans, they’re good for your heart, the more you eat them, well….. you know the rest. There is actually much science behind this popular rhyme. Lentils are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which helps keep your arteries clean, reducing your risk of heart disease and stroke. Lentils are also excellent sources of magnesium and folate – two big promoters of heart health. Magnesium in particular improves blood flow, oxygen and nutrient distribution within your body.

Dark Chocolate

Cocoa beans – from which dark chocolate is created – are rich in a class of plant nutrients called flavonoids. Flavonoids help protect the body from environmental toxins and damage. Flavanols are the main type of flavonoids found in cocoa. Research has shown flavanols to promote healthy blood pressure, improve blood flow and manage healthy blood clotting function.

Garlic

Garlic possesses a myriad of health benefits, but one of the most significant is its positive effects on heart health. It serves as a preventative agent against many different conditions: hypertension, diabetes, thrombosis, etc. For heart health, garlic consumption helps reverse plaque build up in arteries. Sure, you may need some gum afterwards, but loading up on this powerhouse is SMART!

Avocado

Avocados are not only an excellent source of protein and fat, but a heart-healthy superfood. Cholesterol, trans fat and sodium free, avocados are one of the few whole foods that are an excellent source of monounsaturated fat. For this reason, they may help lower your blood cholesterol level when consumed in place of saturated fat.

Berries

Blackberries, blueberries, and strawberries are not just delicious snacks or toppings on your favorite cereal, oatmeal or yogurt. They are an excellent source of polyphenols, which are associated with improved heart health. Polyphenols protect cells and body chemicals against damage caused by free radicals.

Pomegranate

These beautiful fruits contain juicy seeds that are as nutrient-dense as they are delicious. The juice is a rich source of polyphenols, which double as antioxidants, protecting our cells from damage and lowering inflammation in our bodies. The juice is also believed to protect LDL (bad) cholesterol from damaging our arterial walls.

Sardines

These little guys are PACKED with heart-happy fats and nutrients. Sardine are full the omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA, which have been found to lower triglycerides and cholesterol levels.

Flaxseed

These tiny seeds pack a ton of punch when it comes to heart health. A mere teaspoon of the seeds contains nearly 2 grams of heart-healthy Omega-3 essential fatty acids. Flax seeds are also one of the best sources of plant-based foods for lignan’s, which have strong antioxidant qualities, helping support heart health.

February 6, 2017
Helpful Hints for a Healthy Heart

At the core of your livelihood is your heart. Your trusty heart. Think about it: it never misses a beat, pumping oxygen and nutrients into all of your cells and tissues constantly from the time you were born. A symbol for love and happiness, how can we NOT cherish our hearts and treat them with care?!

At Basil Bandwagon, we are in tune with what makes you beat. We have a wide array of supplements to help support a healthy cardiovascular system and we are passionate about sharing our knowledge.

Pictured here are some of our Heart-Healthy faves:

Hawthorne, Rose Hips, Fish Oil, Red Yeast Rice, CoQ10, Astaxanthin, Reishi, Garlic, Grape Seed, etc.

Come visit one of our stores to chat with one of our friendly team members.

Save BIG in February: all Nordic Naturals Supplements are 25% Off!

January 24, 2017
The Whole Scoop on the Whole 30

Everyone makes some sort of pledge around the New Year. Almost every one of those pledges has to do with eating and fitness. How trite! How over-played, right? Most of the time- these resolutions don’t even make it out of January alive. This year, I’ve been determined to challenge that norm.

Before January 1, my family and I decided that we were going to do the Whole 30 dietary program. A few years of stress have taken their toll. Despite working at an AMAZING natural market that I love, with access to some of the best food around, my eating habits have really suffered. I’ve struggled with migraines and heartburn, and almost NO energy at the end of every day. I decided it was time to do something about that.

We bought the Whole 30 book, made grocery lists, loaded the fridge with organic meat and veggies and buckled in for the ride. In case you aren’t familiar, let me explain what The Whole 30 is. I’d describe it as a diet reset: no grain, no alcohol, no legumes, no dairy, no sugar, no SWEETENERS, no soy, no yeast, etc.

Here’s how my experience has been going with this program:

Day One: Awesome! We made some great meals, felt really full and proud of ourselves.

Day Two: It was the day before the kids had to go back to school, and Grandpa wanted to take everyone to the Museum of Natural History in NYC. We loaded in the car, bags full of fruit, Epic Bars, and the handful of Whole 30-approved bars. “We’ll make it.” I said.

The Museum was packed and we’d seen all the major exhibits. We were hungry. Our snack bags were empty and the sun was going down. We ducked out of the rain and into a delightful little Greek restaurant. The menu included a few things that were perfect- but, not palatable for the kids. My youngest got skirt steak with asparagus, my oldest got lamb sautéed with veggies. I was excited and got stuffed cabbage- forgetting that it had rice in it until I was about eight bites in. I decided to roll with it. “A little goof-up isn’t the end of the world”, I told myself. Then, my father-in-law ordered dessert while I was in the restroom. Baklava and Kaitifi. I didn’t say a word and devoured all of it. And a glass of wine. My husband and I looked at each other and declared a “do-over” the next day.

Day Three +: It wasn’t as hard as I thought over the next few days. I pre-cooked a lot of organic chicken, ground beef, and bacon. I stocked up on salad greens, veggies and fruit. We put our lunches together in the morning- assembling what were essentially “Buddha Bowls”. What are Buddha Bowls? Buddha Bowls are a life saver.

My favorite bowl to throw together is: cooked sweet potato chunks, diced pork or chicken, greens, chopped cashews and Tessamae’s Creamy Ranch dressing (PALEO and Whole 30-friendly!) This has been my go-to lunch. (see recipe below!)

After a few days, I noticed a few things: no headaches, more energy, and no heartburn.

Week Two: The second week brought challenges. We were having a hard time keeping enough food in the house to be able to build our meals. Without filler foods (bread, beans, pasta, grains), we were absolutely tearing through avocados, eggs, salads greens, and fruit. We had to rethink the way we shop. Instead of one big weekly grocery trip, we were finding ourselves re-stocking every few days. Admittedly, the cost was up, too. (I don’t have to tell you that meat costs more than beans.)

After observing our budget for the week, though, there was a savings in another place that we didn’t even consider: we hadn’t eaten out since we went to Manhattan. Not a coffee run, not a rushed lunch, not a desperate pizza order. The extra expense in the grocery budget hasn’t been an issue because we are making and eating all of our own food!

Another challenge I ran into during this time was when I neglected to eat breakfast and found myself nauseated. My instinct was to grab crackers or a piece of bread to soothe my tummy. I texted my husband who encouraged me to grab a bag of raw cashews instead. He was right- I just needed something in my stomach. It’s amazing the food we want to grab for comfort! I didn’t think the cashews would work, but they set me right and I was able to eat well the rest of the day. I learned that I HAVE to eat. I can’t skip meals.

Moving Forward: Now we’re not done with this program quite yet- we still have a week or two to go, but the results so far are enough that we want to keep going. Perhaps indefinitely. The biggest surprise for me is that I don’t miss dairy or bread as much as I expected to. The theory is that you won’t crave things as much if your body is receiving everything it needs.

If you are looking for a reset, or relief from chronic symptoms that have no answers- The Whole 30 is a solid place to start. It will challenge you, but it will also teach you what you need to truly nourish your body.

Easy Whole 30-Approved Lunch Bowl

This flexible lunch can be made ahead of time- and this makes good use of leftovers!

Cube the meat for easy eating. I was using leftover bacon wrapped pork roast.

Leftover a baked Purple Stokes Sweet Potato

I had some pea shoots from Blue Moon Acres to use as my greens. (Yum!)

Looks GORGEOUS already.

I added Cashews for extra crunch and good fats!

You can add any dressing you like, but my current favorite is Whole 30 approved and has a delightful dill flavor that I’m sort of addicted to. You can certainly make your own, of course!

January 23, 2017
Stocking Remedies for Kids

Bumps, bruises, scrapes, sore throats, tummy aches- every kids comes with them! Here are 10 of our favorite natural products to address your little ones’ needs in a flash. Stock up now and save on tears later 😉

#1: Elderberry Syrup

You’ve heard it by now, Elderberry Syrup is a serious contender in the world of cold and flu remedies. Even held up against pharmaceuticals, Elderberry stands tall. The best part is, it tastes GREAT, so it goes down easy. Just a teaspoon a day during cold and flu season can ward off viruses of all kinds, and bumping that dosage if they get sick can help shorten the duration of the cold.

Be sure to read the labels on Elderberry syrup- notice the sugar content and the additives- we love our brand because it contains neither!

#2: Mullein Garlic Ear Oil

Earaches hurt, and ear infections are one of the biggest culprits for the over-prescription of antibiotics out there. Try soothing the ear canal at first signs of symptoms with this time-tested remedy. Mullein is a flower that you’ve likely ignored or pulled out in your yard- but it’s potent antibacterial qualities can help it heal an irritated ear canal. Garlic is one of nature’s “antibiotics” for the same reason. Together, the two (suspended in olive oil) are a fantastic way to soothe and heal troubled ears.

Be sure to warm the oil first. Do this by placing the whole bottle in a mug of hot water for a few moments, then shake to ensure an even temperature.

#3: Arnica Gel & Tablets

A healthy, active child will definitely encounter some bumps and bruises! Treat minor aches and pains with arnica gel applied to the area affected. It will help take the edge off the discomfort after a fall off a swing or a bruised shin. Tablets can be used internally – taken through the mouth – to do the same and work especially well with less localized discomfort.

#4: Wiley’s Wild Alaskan Fish Oil

Focus is important for kids- and sometimes it seems impossible to get it. Without enough quality omega fatty acids in the diet, focus can be severely impeded. Fish oil is an easy way to achieve healthy levels and is easy to take nowadays- even tasty! We like Wiley’s in Mango-Peach flavor. It delivers a good dose of both EPA and DHA needed for brain health and mood health and comes from wild-caught Alaskan Fish that you can trust.

#5: Redmond Clay First Aid Cream

This is one of the simplest and most useful products! Bentonite clay is extremely absorbent- this makes it useful for drying out rashes from poison ivy or shallow scrapes from falling off a bike. This super-hero clay will take the sting out of a wasp bite or minor burns. The best part? ZERO chemicals. Two ingredients: just pure, clean clay and purified water. You can also make it yourself out of the dry powder- but having it in this tube form is worth it!

#6: Rescue Remedy

Anxiety can strike kids just as often as it can strike adults. Pressures of school and sports and friends can compound into a full blown meltdown. Soothe worries with Rescue Remedy! Rescue Remedy is not a sedative- it’s a simple, homeopathic remedy that helps calm the nervous system. Here’s one way we’ve heard it described by a 13-year-old, “It’s like a everything is wrinkled, but then…after a few minutes…it’s smooth again.”

#7: Olbas Oil

This icy-cold essential oil blend is strong stuff- but when blended with any carrier oil, it becomes a magic tool for slowing coughs! Slather it on the feet and cover with socks to stop a nagging nighttime cough. Dilute it further and massage onto the chest to help open up stuffy noses! In the summertime, it can make a cooling rub for hot car rides or in the car after a sweaty sports game.

#8: Amazing Grass Kidz Superfood

We love kale! You probably like it- at least in a smoothie! Kids, though, might struggle to get the benefits of eating lots of greens without a little help. Amazing Grass makes it easy with these packets. They pick a wallop of fruits, vegetables and probiotics that will fill in the cracks of a kid’s diet and make them feel, well,…amazing!

#9: Nux Vomica

Homeopathy can seem like another language sometimes. Some of the remedies sound like Harry Potter spells! Nux Vomica works like a charm 😉 Nausea can have a myriad of causes, and stopping it involves asking a lot of questions. In the meantime, you have a miserable little person. Nux Vomica can take the edge off nausea and bring comfort until the larger picture becomes clear.

#10: Calm Child by Planetary Herbals

Maybe you’ve tried the Fish Oil and you still have an issue with a fidgety or anxious kiddo. This herbal syrup uses soothing botanicals like chamomile, hawthorn, lemon balm, and catnip. All of these combine to help calm over-stimulated little people without the use of chemicals.

January 16, 2017
Building Your Natural Medicine Cabinet

When was the last time you cleaned out your medicine cabinet? If you’re like many others, you may have a few bottles of expired product, unused product, or product you’re not sure how you acquired. You may not have benefitted from using some of it and some over-the-counter pharmaceutical products may have even generated some unwanted side effects for you. What a waste of money! (And space!)

If this sounds familiar, you’re probably interested in seeking alternative natural solutions to managing your health. We think that’s smart! Save your health AND money… and read on to save your time making selections. We’ve got our top picks for building a fully-stocked natural medicine cabinet with a good solution to nearly all of your wellness needs. Read on…

Starting with our top shelf, left to right:

1. XLear:

If you’re prone to sinus problems or allergies, you need this product; this gentle nasal spray contains xylitol – a sugar alcohol that sends bacteria to the grave

2. Boiron Oscillococcinum:

Always keep a pack handy for when flu-like symptoms hit; this homeopathic remedy is best used at the onset of symptoms and can help you get back to feeling yourself again simply by working with your body’s own natural defense systems to spur needed action

3. Aura Cacia Organic Eucalyptus Oil:

So many uses for this aromatherapeutic gem; add a few drops to a humidifier in cold months, or to a facial steam bath to help relieve nasal congestion discomfort

4. Boiron Nux Vomica:

When nausea strikes, Nux Vomica is to the rescue; this homeopathic remedy is popular for relieving discomfort from hangovers and more and is easily taken by dropping a few tiny pellets under the tongue to dissolve

5. Rescue Remedy:

Available in spray, pastille, gelcap or liquid form, this flower essence remedy is used for addressing mild anxiety, nervousness and tension

6. Fire Cider:

Put some pep in your step or boost your immunity with this food-based tonic filled with anti-inflammatory, cold-busting nutrients; one shot and you’ll feel all the goodness this tonic has to offer

7. Deep Sleep:

A favorite of those who have trouble sleeping, this formula contains an array of herbs known to help promote restful sleep without groggy, cranky side effects that no one wants to deal with

8. MigreLief:

Antioxidants, minerals and vitamins combine forces to help relief symptoms associated with painful migraine headaches without any caffeine or stimulants

9. Aller-Aid:

A beautiful blend of herbs and powerful antioxidants that helps address symptoms that so many with allergies suffer with needlessly

10. Herbalist & Alchemist Peppermint Tincture:

Peppermint is an herb that has been used for thousands of years to help calm an upset stomach; simply drop this liquid into water, tea, or a comforting beverage

11. Enzymedica Acid Soothe:

This formula uses powerful digestive enzymes to break down foods that may cause acid reflux symptoms in sensitive individuals; this product addresses the root cause of the discomfort

12. Jason Vitamin E:

Known for its skin healing properties, liquid vitamin E is a great solution for addressing scarring and other troublesome skin issues

13. Urban Moonshine’s Digestive Bitters:

This liquid promotes your body’s own production of salivary amylase, which helps break down certain types of food you consume, potentially helping relieve symptoms like gas, bloating and mild digestive discomfort

14. Oregon’s Wild Harvest Namaste:

An organic blend of adaptogenic herbs, this liquid tincture is a great solution to help your body best cope with the stressful demands of everyday life

15. Grapefruit Seed Extract:

Address fungal issues with power; this liquid can be ingested, applied topically, or even used as a laundry additive or food-grade cleanser

16. Arnica Montana:

Used to help relieve discomfort associated with bruising, muscle soreness and inflammation, this homeopathic remedy is often prescribed after falls, injuries or surgery

17. Arnica Gel:

A topical version of this homeopathic remedy that is often used on bruises and areas of swelling

18. Sovereign Silver First Aid Gel:

Complete with colloidal silver, this topical solution suggests usage on skin requiring protection from bad bacteria

19. Banyan Nasaya Oil:

Dry nasal passages or bloody noses? This oil is intended to be swabbed on the inner tissues of the nasal passageway to provide needed moisture

20. Tea Tree Oil:

This essential oil has too many benefits to list! No cabinet is complete without it!

At Basil Bandwagon, we have a variety of facial, dental, and skin care products free of the chemicals and preservatives you want to avoid. Don’t forget to make these a part of your natural medicine cabinet, since your skin absorbs what you put on it!

Not pictured, but another great addition to your medicine cabinet is activated charcoal. A well-known antidote for food poisoning, this supplement is also used for whitening teeth (when added to toothpaste) or as a natural detoxifier.

As with any substance, you should always check with a doctor or medical professional before use, especially in an emergency or life-threatening situation or if you have any underlying health problems.

Love this post? Click HERE for a printable shopping list of these items!

January 3, 2017
Allergy Friendly Holiday Classics!

This time of year can wreak havoc on your system. Comfort food is everywhere: scents of baked goods, sugary delights and holiday candles abound. Choosing better ingredients and allergy-friendly options can minimize the side effects of the holidays. Here’s some of our favorite alternatives:

Silk Almond Nog

Can’t have dairy? Can’t have Soy? There’s still a nog option for you!

Kite Hill Cream Cheese Style Spread in Chive

Everyone else is having cheese and crackers- but you can’t do dairy. This spread from Kite Hill makes it easy with their almond-based spread. Pick up some crackers and dip away!

Dandy Blend Instant Beverage

Cold evenings call for warm beverages- and coffee is a favorite! If you can’t drink coffee, or you are looking to cut down, Dandy Blend is an EXCELLENT alternative! It’s rich and smooth and plays well with your favorite creamer and sweetener. The best part is how easy it is- just mix in!

Pascha Organic Chocolate Rice Milk Chips

What’s so amazing about these Chocolate Chips? Check out whats NOT in them! Nut Free, Dairy Free, Wheat & Gluten Free, AND Soy Free. This makes these safe for a crowd!

Aleia’s Savory Stuffing Mix (Gluten Free!)

Don’t miss out on stuffing! Aleia’s makes Gluten Free EASY- and yummy. It’s also dairy free, corn free and non-GMO.

TruJoy Candy Canes

Everyone wants candy canes this time of year- but check out the ingredients! Our candy canes are free of dyes and other junk that you don’t want, but have all the minty goodness you crave.

Wholesome Sweeteners Organic Coconut Sugar

One sprinkle of this, and you’ll find yourself forgetting to use brown sugar! Coconut sugar is low-glycemic and still offers that warm sweetness you look for on top of sweet rolls, and cookies.

November 29, 2016
Guest Post: Developing Your Personal Health Plan
A Chiropractor’s Guide to Creating Health & Happiness This Fall & Beyond

By Dr. Michele Gardner of Gardner Family Chiropractic, Flemington, NJ

Have you ever attempted to program your GPS and found it searching for satellite? It won’t show your travel route until it first knows where you are… Finding your way in life is incredibly similar! You cannot get to where you want to go without first knowing where you are. In helping you develop your Personal Health Plan, we’ll talk about where you are on your journey to health, different philosophies of health, and actions to ensure your future wellbeing.

Because we are all at different places on our journey to health, we will each have a different plan. You will tailor your own program to suit your lifestyle. The idea behind a Personal Health Plan is that it is a decision to stay healthy and take steps toward insuring your future success. (Madeira, 2006) My favorite definition of health is one that includes physical, social, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing – not merely the absence of disease. (WHO, 1948) Health is a lifelong journey and requires a bigger picture view of life to be in view at all times. With this in mind, know that you are building awareness here. You are defining your interpretation of yourself and getting specific about what you want.

Some of us are healthy and want to stay that way. Some of us are facing a health challenge or crisis that is new. Some of us are managing chronic illness. Whether you have survived a health crisis and want to insure it never comes back, or want to take your current health to new heights, a Personal Health Plan will help you succeed. No matter where you are on your journey, I want to encourage you to make your choices from a place of self-love. A frantic push toward a desired end with a rigid list of to-do’s will not serve you and is not sustainable. Plus, you’ll miss out on the gifts you have the potential to receive – even while in crisis.

If you owned a million-dollar race horse, what would you feed it? Would you exercise it? Would you keep its environment clean? Would you give it plenty of rest, sunshine, and fresh air? Of course you would! The reason you would is because this isn’t just any horse… this is a million dollar race horse! (Madeira, 2006) Have you guessed it already? Yes, you are the million-dollar race horse! Why would you do any less for yourself? For the parents reading this, I know you want the best for your children and you know they learn through observation. Lead by example. Love yourself enough to treat yourself as you would your children so they can learn to do this for themselves. Our ability to love is infinite. I promise you, if you love yourself more you won’t be taking anything away from them. You’ll be giving them more than you can imagine.

For some of you, the following will be a big ah-ha moment. There are three different philosophies of health.
1. Mechanistic Philosophy: This is the one our culture is most familiar. The belief inherent in this philosophy is that living things are like complicated machines, composed of many parts lacking any intrinsic relationship to each other.
2. Holistic Philosophy: This is the one most familiar to Eastern cultures. This philosophy values the idea that living things should be viewed as wholes- not as collections of parts. Functioning cannot be fully understood solely in terms of component parts.
3. Vitalism Philosophy: The basic principle of this philosophy is that living things have an innate intelligence which animates, motivates, heals, coordinates and inspires them. (Glassey, 2010)
Our culture’s medical model is based in the mechanistic philosophy. It is the most beneficial in emergency scenarios. If your kidney if failing or you’ve broken a bone, this is the approach best utilized. However, when faced with chronic illness, the modalities steeped in holism may fair better. And vitalistic philosophy can help us choose to add actions and traditions to be utilized whether we’re sick or well. There really isn’t necessarily one right answer. It is what is right for you right now. And, that may change too. Life and growth are a dynamic evolution.

Directions for Creating Your Personal Health Plan:

Once you’ve chosen your primary philosophy of health, you’ll develop your personal health wheel. Some examples of a health wheel are shown here along with a blank one you can print to create your own.

You’ll notice there is a center circle on this wheel.

Out of your health philosophy, choose up to three traditions that support your philosophy.

Some examples are: Acupuncture, Aromatherapy, Ayurveda, Biofeedback, Chinese Medicine, Chiropractic, Energy Medicine, Faith Healing, Feldenkrais Method, Functional Medicine, Gestalt Therapy, Herbalism, Homeopathy, Hydrotherapy, Hypnotherapy, Iridology, Kampo Medicine, Massage Therapy, Meditation, Naturopathic Medicine, Osteopathic Medicine, Polarity Therapy, Pranic Healing, Prayer, Qigong, Rebirthing, Traditional Medicine, or Yoga Therapy.

Next you’ll choose facets of health that are important to you.

The most common are physical, spiritual, recreational, professional, social, emotional, mental, financial, romantic, creative, relational, environmental, and family. Within each category you can get specific and detailed.You have the ability to know what area of your life needs your attention to reach health goals. Simply evaluate yourself on the wheel. There is an example wheel that is multi-colored with tick marks to help quantify the level of health achieved in that category. (Baker, 2013) What do you want your life to be?

After you have chosen which areas to work on, you can decide what or who will help you with your action steps.

You are not meant to do this alone. Find practitioners within that can walk with you along your journey. They will help hold you accountable while giving you the support you need.

Get started right now:

Print one of the sample wheels. When thoughts come to you about what you want for yourself, journal them or use a voice recorder on your phone. You’ll build upon this with time and allow the specifics to unfold.

If you’d like support from me, don’t hesitate to reach out. Visit my website for more information on how to reach me. I can help you find a practitioner you are looking for or guide you through some choices. Lastly, I’ll leave you with a quote I like:

“If you don’t design your own life plan, chances are you’ll fall into someone else’s plan. And guess what they have planned for you? Not much.” – Jim Rohn

No matter where you are on your journey toward health, you can make choices today that will lead you where you want to go. Surround yourself with people who help you passionately move toward self-actualization!

Works Cited

Baker, B. (2013, September). Retrieved from http://www.startofhappiness.com/wheel-of-life-a-self-assessment-tool/

Glassey, D. (2010, September). The Vitalistic Healing Model. Retrieved from Pathways to Family Wellness: http://pathwaystofamilywellness.org/Holistic-Healthcare/the-vitalistic-healing-model.html

Madeira, J. (2006). Developing Your Personal Wellness Plan. Setting Things Straight (p. 1). Madeira Success Strategies.

Duke University (2014). Retrieved from Duke Integrative Medicine: http://triadintegrativehealthcoaches.com/

Unknown. (n.d.). Retrieved from Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/11892386492434313/

WHO. (1948). WHO definition of health. Retrieved from WHO International: http://www.who.int/about/definition/en/print.html

Wikipedia. (2016, August). Holism Philosophy. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Holism

Wikipedia. (2016, June). Mechanism Philosophy. Retrieved from https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mechanism_(philosophy)
October 20, 2016
Sweet Potato Toast 6 Ways

October 18, 2016