Chapters in Life

Chapter 1 - Tuesday – July 26,2011

It was 78 degrees last night during my run.  It did however seem more tolerable since the sun had long been gone and the beauty of night was glimmering!

Unfortunately, my taste tester is still dealing with an a slight injury and unable to run with me…or so I thought!

The run was a simple 4.5 mile run.

I recently have begun to really push myself the last mile or so of the run. I figure next month I will push at 1.5 miles prior to the end and continue until I am running at a faster pace each mile of the run!  This should help me on race day…

My mind was thinking about so many topics while I ran.

Things like: Fueling my body ALOT better.  - Making the “FUEL” commitment to my running is really important.  The fact is I haven’t taken THIS particular commitment seriously. BOOO for the Veg888 Blogger!

That’s not to say I am eating sugar, candy, soda, sweets, etc.  It’s just that I know I need to take my consumption up about 5 notches!  But I am aware and I will do something about it!

As I approached the end of my run, I saw my taste test jogging toward me.  He finished the last mile of the run with me.  Unfortunately he was in pain and sniffling like he had a cold! Hmmm….

Once we were inside and I looked at him, I knew it!  A cold had found him and I wanted NO PART OF IT!

Despite my diligent effort not to catch my taste tester’s cold – I GOT SICK! >:(  Very upset to say the least!  I tried cleaning everything after he used it with thyme and tea tree essential oil.  I sprayed the rooms and the bed with this same concoction…

Stop the Cold Bug Disinfectant Spray

10 oz Distilled Water

6 Drops Organic Thyme Oil

6 Drops Organic Tea Tree Oil

Fill a clean spray bottle with the distilled water.  (I use distilled since it won’t mold or smell after a few weeks time.)  Add the essential oil to the water and cover with spray nozzle.  Shake before each use.

NOTE: My taste tester and I generally use this spray on our bed in the a.m. when we are fixing it and getting ready to go.  This spray is also really good in the kitchen, however I add lemon essential oil to that spray.

Unfortunately, I didn’t think to get the light switches or the steering wheel to the car! UGH!

On Thursday I woke up sneezing and felt the germ coming on!  I was determined to fight it!

Chapter 2 – Sunday – July 31, 2011

By Sunday the cold had vanished and I was healthy again!  Luckily!

We had purchased tickets to see Ziggy Marley at the Hollywood Bowl that night and I was truly excited!

I made Jerk Tofu with Red Beans and Rice in honor of Jamaica!

We sat and enjoyed a truly moving, captivating and dynamic show by Ziggy!  A true professional and a true musician.

More often than not, I am ALWAYS disappointed when Bob Marley’s kids start singing their father’s songs! How many times is Damian, Stephen or even Ky-Mani for that matter going to sing “We’re Jammin”! Ugh! Bob did it – it was part of his repetoire! However, that was then – this is now!

Both Ziggy and Ky-mani have great works independently and DO NOT NEED TO SING BOB’S songs.  Anyone feel me on this one???

As the evening ended I was truly calm and serene.

I really enjoy having a meal and watching live music.  Note to self: I think I will host a function at the store as such.  It is REALLY calming and healing! I have the back yard area…why not?

Chapter 3 – Tuesday – August 9, 2011

Today marks a few symbolic goals I have decided to fulfill!  Things have been changing around here at the Veg888 Blog…Within, Without, Interior, Exterior…

First – Today is the 8th – ( that’s right 8 – Don’t I love 8′s!) day of a 14-day Organic Detox!  I am embarking on a DETOX FEST for the next 6 months! I will take you on my journey of these Detoxes and discuss what is happening as a cause of this cleansing fest.

Second – Today was the third – ahem – Colonic appointment I had.  Yes Readers you read that correctly.  Don’t worry, I won’t give you much more information than that.  I will however discuss why I am opting to have a colonic each week for the next few weeks.

Third – The realization of age and keeping your body in working order!  I noticed there were a few uncomfortable poses while practicing yoga.  Not uncomfortable because I couldn’t do them, but much more of an organ pain…if that makes sense???  I decided to listen to what my body was telling me and make some poignant changes to my life.  Yes it will be hard work and I will need dedication, but I have to do it.  I got one body at birth!  I need to take care of it from head to toe!

Chapter 3 – Tuesday – September 5, 2011

I successfully finished the 14 day detox!  Next is the kidney detox!

I have also reached #6 in my Hydrotherapy endeavor.

Have any of you ever had a colonic before???

It is quite an interesting experience.  But I would have to say this will add another chapter to the “Recipe for Illness” Series I have going on the blog!

The Hydrotherapist I have been working with is a wonderful woman.  She is truly a beam of light!  I am happy with the results I am feeling and experiencing.

What are the changes?

1. Body odor has changed completely. Not that it was bad, just different.
2. Fatigue prior to menstruation TOTALLY gone.
3. Day1 or Day 2 Headache which usually comes with my menses – GONE!
4. My skin is clearer and my hair is growing a bit faster.
5. I am VERY aware of my chewing patterns.  Am I chewing enough, did I swallow that piece of food to fast, etc.
6. My desire for foods has changed.   I had already dropped the sweets thing, but now I don’t want anything that would “plug” my system up.
7. Although having a colonic once a week has effected my running a bit, I don’t think there is any need to worry.  Mostly my abdomen is sore the day after my appointment and I don’t run.
8. I have been CLEANING around my house.  Feeling the need to get rid of clothes, clean my fridge out and various other cleaning endeavors. Basically just get rid of JUNK!
9. Looking at everything I have in a new light.  A positive light!
10. I feel more in control of my body than I did a few weeks ago!

I could go on, but I will stop there for now.  If you have any questions about colonics feel free to email me or comment on the post!

The thing about my body is this.  I am willing to do whatever natural work I need to do!  The Detox, the herbs, the baths, Hydro-Therapy, Eating the Correct foods for my body, etc.  So I will keep you updated on any news, discoveries and findings.

Thank you for reading!  I have missed you!

Love and Light!

Namaste!

Rejuv*e*LACK there of !

All last week I DID NOT HAVE REJUVELAC!

Talk about feeling like I LACKED! And definitely the Healing Elixr of 2011 on the Veg888 Food Blog!

Luckily, I had buckwheat on hand and was able to sprout it!

Sprouted the buckwheat and made REJUVELAC in the usual three batch method.  LOTS AND LOTS of jars in the FRIDGE! YES!

Did I feel a difference without the REJUVELAC?

YES! YES! YES! ABSOLUTELY!

Although I was quite busy last week, the emotional strain of the week, compounded with no LIFE in my body was horrible! (RE: Rejuvelac – still had live foods of other sorts!-salad, E3 Live, etc)

Last Monday I received a call from my mother telling me about a family member going into the hospital.  Since this is the only forum where I share EVERYTHING, I thought I would tell you what has been happening.

My cousin was admitted into the hospital Sunday evening with a swollen liver and extreme fluid retention.  Within 12 hours the entire family was called and informed he had 3 hours to live.

Now, me being me I knew that this is and was totally NUTRITIONAL! or I suppose LACK THEREOF!  It hurt me.

It hurt me to know what his body was going through.

It hurt me that he isn’t even 50 years old and his liver was that of a severe 70 year old alcoholic.

It hurt me that I don’t speak to him unless I happen to come across him at a family function.  Which in and of itself is a RARE OCCURANCE!

To cut a LONG STORY SHORT…HE IS ALIVE AND WELL!   Not out of the woods so to speak, but coming back!

All last week my taste tester and I sent him healing energy and just kept telling him to fight and live!

I had been telling my taste tester that I felt like something was going to happen.  I didn’t know what and I couldn’t tell to whom…

I never expected it to be him.  Not because of any reason other than his age, I don’t see him.  Etc.

So, I don’t know how I will reach him but I will try.  If nothing else maybe tell him “You are loved and love yourself!  Take your life and nutrition to an entire NEW LEVEL! Love You cousin and I hope you will read this one day!

Now on to the Veg888 Kitchen Update:

The rejuvelac made out of buckwheat is quite sweet smelling, however tastes the same!

I am currently sprouting some wheat berries and will make the next batch from wheat.  I am planning on trying the Quinoa next.  I saw a BLACK quinoa at Whole Foods the other day and may mix the red and black together.

What will I do with the sprouted buckwheat you ask?

MAKE CHIA ENERGY BARS!

I found a great recipe in the Brendan Brazier book “Thrive Fitness”!  I will be making these tonight and hope to update tomorrow.

What about the wheat sprouts I dried?  I will have to update with my pictures tomorrow, however for the time being, I will tell you!

First I placed the DRIED the wheat sprouts (Thanks to my Excalibur), I then placed the dried wheat sprouts into the Food Processor which turned into a FLOUR!  I then made a dough with the wheat flour, olive oil and sage.  From this dough I made 2 bagels, 2 pizza crusts and 1 “french” loaf.  They were in the Dehydrator for 5 hours on Sunday and another 4 hours yesterday.

I will update my pictures of culinary delights tomorrow!

In other news of the Veg888 Kitchen - CHIA!

Now yes I have spoken about Chia before, however I would like to discuss it a little more and discuss what my plans are for the next two weeks as I get ready for the 10k I hope to do on January 29, 2011.

The initial post I did regarding CHIA seed is HERE!

Chia gel causes a slow release of carbohydrates and an equally slow converting of carbohydrates into glucose (blood sugar) for energy. The outer layer of chia seeds is rich in mucilloid-soluble fiber, intended to keep the seeds from drying out in desert air. When chia seeds are mixed with water or stomach juices, a gel forms that creates a physical barrier between the carbohydrates and the digestive enzymes that break them down. The carbohydrates are digested eventually, but at a slow and uniform rate. There is no insulin surge or spike needed to lower the blood sugar level after eating chia.

I am hoping to do at least 12 races this year.  Maybe one a month.  Not all 5k and 10k’s.  There is a 13.1 Half Marathon hosted by Disneyland in Anaheim.  That seems quite interesting to me.  Least a fun filled day! Although known as the happiest place on earth…it will be the most tiring place on earth that day!  I am sure there are many PARENTS who feel that at the end of the day with their KIDS! Am I right?

I’m just really trying to be fit and centered. Whew!  That is always a challenge, however it is one that I am up and ready to do!

I ran on Sunday.  38 minutes for the usual course.  1 minute off of the New Years time and 3 minutes OFF of the desired time.  I will hope to add .25 miles each day until next Wednesday.  The race falls on a Saturday and I am hoping to be up to 4-5 miles by then.  Considering that the race is a 6 mile race, I certainly should be ready! (Fingers Crossed!)

I didn’t run last night since I had to get some paperwork ready for my taste tester.  He needed to be ready and out the door by 8am so we were in bed pretty early! (least early for us!)

I will run this evening and update tomorrow!

Love and Light!

Namaste!

:) haPPineS (: —> Come Forth!

Well readers here we are!  Another year!

I wish you THE BEST YEAR you could possibly have!

You are ALL BEAUTIFUL SOULS!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Quite a bit has changed around here at Veg888 headquarters since last year!

I will continue to seek out longevity and healing & will ALWAYS INCLUDE YOU along my journey!

Thursday Night Run…

I headed out for my run about 5 min till 11pm.  It was cold but there wasn’t a wind factor to contend with! Whew!  Since it was so late, I was unable to take more than 1 picture of the run!  I will miss the holidays!  It is the only time the streets are illuminated with lights and creativity.  One of the houses decorated their palm tree with various colored lights!  Hopefully I will be able to take a picture of it before the lights are taken down!

I plan on running into the new year!  I will be out there thinking of the wonderful world we live in and all the beauty it posses!  Not that there aren;t bad things happening around the world, but I will release love into the world tonight!  I hope you will join me!

Raw Cashew Adventure – Part II – Update

When I got home, I went to look at my cashew cheese.  It smelled different than the eve before.

Projected Problems:

- I think I should have placed the cheese on top of the cheesecloth and allowed it to drain, this way I would have ensured a firm cheese.  (This is all theoretical until I can experiment!)

-The blender I have has seen better days.  Actually, it saw better days a year ago!  All the RAW FOOD PREPARATION over the last year has worn out the blades in both my blender and my Food Processor.  I think if I had a better blender it would have ground the cashews better and I would have had a “thicker” firmer cheese. (Again my theory!)

With these factors in mind, I added lemon, onion powder, cayenne, salt, dehydrated leeks, scallions, and shallots.

I mentioned my “antique” molds and I wanted to use them for the cheese…

Here they are before the process…

Next I lined each mold with plastic wrap and filled each mold with cheese.  Filled the molds with the cheese and covered.  I had hoped the cheese would firm up by morning, but 8 hrs later the cheese is still soft!  I have seen on the Raw Forums this problems occurs and I hope this is not like my adventure in making Gnocchi!  In one word… DISASTROUS!  I have NEVER ATTEMPTED it at home AGAIN!

Rejuvelac Front – Update

This is my third batch of Rejuvelac and I am quite PLEASED!!!  Tonight will be the last batch I can make with what is brewing.  I saved the other sprouts and hope to experiment with the next batch ALL TOGETHER!  I am also going to DEHYDRATE the “spent” sprouts and make a bread!

I have noticed some profound differences since I have begun conuming REJUVELAC!  My running times have contined to get BETTER! YES!  Last night I ran the 2.8 miles in 38 minutes!  For the last few weeks, between the REJUVELAC and the E3 I have felt enormous differences.  I have cut my time by 8 minutes!  I’ve got to get to 35 minuted!  Once I do that, I will be able to start with intervals.  Intervals will change my time and strength while I am in a race!  10 k – HERE I COME!!!

Hopefully I will be able to conquer a 4-5 miler this weekend!  I will let you know!

Another positive and maybe negative ALL AT THE SAME TIME – MY SENSE OF SMELL!  I know this seems strange, but I have a keener sense of smell and sharper vision.

My stomach seems to feel really good all of the time and the “Taste Tester” has definitely experienced some changes as well!  Love It!

Love and Light!

Namaste!

Last Years Holiday Wish! Read It and Know I still mean it!

Thursday’s Kitchen Report

Things have been moving along nicely in the Veg888 Kitchen lately.

Last night I jarred the THIRD BATCH/LAST BATCH of Rejuvelac.  This is the last and final batch before it will turn into a “bread”.

The wheat berries have tails that are about 2.5 cm.  They are happy little things!  They have turned a really interesting color.  Much like a cream color? or an eggshell color?  not white, but almost there???  The tails have tiny little fuzzy roots!  They also smell very “green” and VERY FRESH!

I placed the “spent” wheat berries into a glass container and popped them into the refrigerator.  This is supposed to slow down the sprouting process and since I have made ALL THE REJUVELAC I can…I am awaiting to RECYCLE & REUSE!

I will make the “bread” this evening and place it in the dehydrator over night.  I am planning on making RAW BAGELS with this batch.  My favorite non-raw bagel is an EVERYTHING BAGEL so that is what I am going for tonight!  Since my schedule it usually chaotic – I wasn’t able to make my Bagels/Essene bread.  I will update the process and the taste!

On Sunday (Dec 19, 2010) I began soaking more wheat berries and sprouted them over the next 2 days.  This allowed me to begin a new batch of Rejuvelac immediately after the final batch.

I was also able to wash the large container and refill it with “NEW” REJUVELAC within a 10 minute frame.  Of course this was going on at about 1:30 am.

Most of my kitchen experiments go on between the hours of 9:30pm – 3:00 am.  ESPECIALLY since running became part of my schedule in the evening.  When you go to bed at like 3 or even 4 am it is quite difficult to wake up at 6 or even 8 am. I am hoping to change my schedule a bit this next year.  My goal will be to get a good portion of my workouts done in the morning before I open the store.  In order to do this, I will have to have dinner AT THE STORE and get to bed by 11pm – Midnight.  Fingers Crossed I will meet this goal! (Along with all of my other goals on my list for 2011! )

Overall Rejuvelac Review

Although time consuming the rewards I feel from the Rejuvelac seem well worth the wait.  My tummy feels really good, I am very clear in my mind.  I don’t forget things AS MUCH!  I am able to execute tasks on my list for the day.  I am also able to keep a very good energy level sustained throughout the day.  No word on gray hair/dark hair – yet.  But a very good addition to my diet.

If I stay on a good rotation, I think everything will work out fine.  Last night as I began sprouting more Sunflower Seeds and Radish Sprouts, I began to think of what I was REALLY doing.  I knew I also needed to begin sprouting NEW wheat berries Thursday evening, this way I would be ready with proper wheat berry sprouts once the next THIRD batch is ready.

I also want to add more “Sprouted Greens”  to my diet.  While reading the “Thrive” book by Brendan Brazier I came across some helpful information on Sprouted Greens.

“RAW enzyme rich sprouts are plentiful in all three food components: simple carbohydrates, amino acids and fatty acids.  They are predigested so the body does not need to produce it’s own enzymes, plus the nutrients are in a usable form-a considerable net gain of total energy suppled by the food.” Brendan Brazier, Thrive

It also went on to say “The sprout occupies a transitional phase in the plant life cycle.  Having yet to form roots, the sprout, a new growth from the germinating seed.  Once activated by moisture, enzymes begin to utilize nutrients supplied in the seed as a rapid growth fuel.  The plant equivalent to mother’s milk, densely packed nutrients in the seed quickly convert the sprout into a plant with leaves…throughout the sprout’s rapid growth phase, digestive enzyme inhibitors are expelled; proteins are converted to amino acids, and fats to essential fatty acids, making a very efficient food.  Power packed with vitamins, minerals, chlorophyll and enzymes, since sprouting enhances the efficiency and nutrient value of the seed.  Sprouts, because of their HIGH pH level, will also help alkalize the body ” Brendan Brazier, Thrive

I have to kick training up a notch if I am going to finish the 10k which will be January 29, 2011. (Not that far away mind you!) So there will be more recipes to come!

There doesn’t seem to be the usual excitement for Christmas this year.  I don’t even hear people say they are going to buy gifts -or- that they are celebrating Christmas!?  I wonder if it’s the rain or the finances???

No Christmas Tree in my shop or at home.  Just lots of Sprouts!  Life!

The rain seems to have subsided -for now-.  I woke up to the Sun this morning but it seems to have disappeared since!

Love and Light!

Namaste!

Into the Future…

It has been a long time since my last posting!  How are you?  Are you grounded? Frustrated?  Happy? Sad?  Me?  I’m alright.  Getting my next set of goals together in my mind!

First off – I am still leading a Vegan/Vegetarian lifestyle!  18+ years and going strong.  Not all RAW but all Animal Free!   Still scouring books and the information super highway to help keep my health in order.  I am also getting ready to do another parasite cleanse.

One of my newest endeavors will be to run my first “organized” – 13.1 miles.  I will be doing the Carlsbad Half Marathon in January.  Since the event will take place on the 23rd, I think I will do the paracleanse roughly 2 months prior.  I will also be working on various menu plans to keep healthy, strong and motivated.

Obviously yoga will be a large part of my future.   Before and after running.  I think it will be REALLY important and keep me from injuries.

Acidic/Alkaline is also a VERY VERY important balance to maintain during training.  I will be participating in this event with some family members.  That part is exciting as well.

I have been trying to figure out the part of my brain that enables me to stick to various commitments while at the same time NOT sticking to others.  Factors like: waking up early, running each day, making a schedule I will actually stick to? – things like that are difficult for me.  Things that are easy for my Brain? Being a vegetarian daily, wanting to be better and better as the years go by (and trying to be better ), opening my store everyday, helping my parents, telling my parents I love them MULTIPLE times a day, maintaining a good relationship with my sister and those around me.  Thos types of things are just natural.

Along the way, I found these key points you may find helpful…

1. Love Yourself. Understand that your path to your goal is a process with steps to completion.  Loving and accepting yourself TODAY (even if there are things you’d like to change) will shift your perspective away from making yourself wrong, to one where you deserve to have the life you want.  Hey – why not you?  Once you’ve embraced yourself and your right to live a life you love, you will be more empowered to create a real commitment to Rewrite Your Tomorrow.
2. Don’t Make Excuses. It is easy to round up and say, “I will start tomorrow” or “next week is soon enough!”  If you make excuses on why today is not the best day to start, then you will always find reasons.  Too little time, too much to do.  If not you, who? If not now, when?  Get going.
3. Give Yourself a Break. Change is scary. We have to give up what’s familiar and comfortable – even if we know it’s not good for us.  Realize that lasting change is not an easy, overnight dream come true.  Every successful change requires you to work to really feel the power of achievement.  So, when it gets hard and you need a little break, plan a treat into your schedule to celebrate your successes and give you motivation to keep going.
4. Don’t Abandon Ship. By accepting responsibility for your actions and being honest about your reasons for acting as you did, you will be better prepared for the next time you want to stray from your dedication.  Excuses are a slippery slope of not dealing with the reality of a situation.  Be honest with yourself in order to learn, move past the mistake and start again!
5. Get Going Again. Many times one small misstep leads to a long downward spiral.  Accept your slips as just that…small errors.  You can even celebrate your mistakes and hurdles, because once you have identified them, they can be overcome.  Remember, you know where you want to go, you just may need some support to get there.  So, build yourself a support network, recommit to your vision and goals and get moving again.
6. Take Smaller Bites. Someone once said it was better to have small successes than ambitious failure.  Break your efforts into small, digestible milestones and build some positive momentum.  It is hard to think of trekking uphill, both ways in the snow (although my dad swears he did it barefoot to get to school every day. Yours too?)   But, when you walk along the path one step at a time, pretty soon you can look back and realize how far you’ve actually come.  So, give yourself credit for the mileage you’ve tallied and enjoy the progress instead of dreading every step.

Do you have goals you would like encouragement with? What are your plans for the future?  Any training tips??? Talk to me out there! I would really like to know!

Aren’t these beautiful?  I had never seen so many evening cactus flowers! Much less white ones! 

Here is an action shot!  There is a street called Abbot Kinney inVenice, Ca.  There were so many people out on the street waiting in line for various food trucks!  Unfortunatly the ONLY vegan food truck out there RAN OUT OF FOOD!   So we settled on a small glass of champagne and hit the road to PURE LUCK! (A vegan restaurant on Melrose!)

I saw this beautiful Peacock the other day!!! He was actually quite funny! He was playing games with one of the new pea fowl chicks! Nature! So Wonderful, huh?

Well get in touch me through this website or visit the facebook page!

Thanks for reading!

Namaste!

Ch-Cha-Cha CHIA!!! – Part 1

Have you ever seen a commercial for this product? The Chia Pet???

I used to think about how ridiculous this seemed when I was younger.  Especially when I would see one for Mr. T., Barabara Bush, Saddam, and other such people.  Of course there were animals as well…

As silly as it seemed at the time, I found out I should have taken it a bit more seriously.

A bit of History before we begin…

An Ancient Food Source Recently Rediscovered. Chia seeds have been a staple food source for the American Native people for centuries (long before the Chia Pet hit the market). Aztec warriors would eat chia during hunting trips, and the Indians of the Southwest would eat only chia seed mixed with water as they ran from the Colorado River to the Pacific Ocean to trade products.

This brings us back to the Chia Pet! Chia seeds are too sticky for conventional sprouting jars (remember all the talk about chia gel), but sprout very easily when spread out on earthenware. Thus the Chia Pet was born in Mexico in the CHIApas region (Chiapas was named after the chia seed and means “Water of Chia”). The Mexicans have long made earthenware in the shapes of Chia Pets, and yes, you can eat the sprouts that grow on the Chia Pet. They taste like watercress (but better), and are full of vitamins and minerals, just like the seeds.

IDEA: Much like flax, the chia seed begins to gel up.  This seemed like the perfect addition to fresh fruit to make a RAW JAM/JELLY type of food.  I would like to plan a BRUNCH based on a few of the newest foods I have been experiencing on the RAW FOOD SIDE OF LIFE!

Chia is easy to digest, has very little taste but one of Nature’s most nutritous foods. They are high in protein, minerals and enzymes, fiber and calcium.

Both the Chia seed and oil naturally contain more than 60% Omega-3 fatty acid, this is the highest percentage of Omega-3 of any commercially available source. The body converts Omega-3 from chia into EPA and DHA. Chia has no odor, doesn’t go rancid, easy to store, easy to use, has very little flavor/taste and is not contaminated with pesticides, chemicals or heavy metals.

High in Protein Chia seed is a complete source of dietary protein, providing all the essential amino acids. Compared to other seeds and grains, chia seed provides the highest source of protein, between 19 to 23 percent protein by weight. One of the unique qualities of the chia seed is its ability to absorb more than nine times its volume in water or other liquid. This ability can prolong hydration and retain electrolytes in body fluids, especially during exertion or exercise. Normal fluid retention ensures electrolyte dispersion across cell membranes, maintains fluid balances, and aids normal cellular function.

Chia seed produces a thick mucilage in water, absorbing up to 30 times its weight in water. This soluble fiber cleans the intestines by binging and transporting debris from the intestinal walls so that it can be eliminated efficiently and regularly. A daily dose of chia seed provides an excellent fiber source and most people notice a different in less than a week.

Chia contains the usual Vitamin C, ferulates and Vitamin E but the real secret is the Cinnamic acids that guard the omega-3 oils from oxidation. This is why chia is a stable product for years! With no gluten, virtually no sodium, nor reported allergic reactions, grown without pesticides or toxicants. Chia has a high energy to weight ratio (more than wheat, corn, rice or oats) that makes it a favorite choice of long distance runners and other athletics .

Chia seed contains large amounts of B vitamins and calcium. By volume, one ounce of chia contains two percent B-2 (riboflavin), 13 percent niacin, and 29 percent thiamin, and trace amounts of all B vitamins. In roughly two ounces of chia (100 grams), there are 600 milligrams of calcium, contrasted with 120 milligrams of calcium in the same amount of milk. That’s five times as much calcium than milk!

Chia also contains boron, which is needed for bones. With much of the nation’s soil boron depleted, we simply are not getting enough boron in our daily diets. Boron is needed to aid the metabolism of calcium, magnesium, manganese, and phosphorus in bones and for muscle growth. Boron also can increase the levels of natural estrogen.A Dieter’s Dream! The gel-forming property of chia seed tends to slow digestion and sustain balanced blood sugar levels, which can be helpful in preventing or controlling diabetes. Whole, water-soaked chia seeds can be easily digested and absorbed. This results in rapid transport of chia nutrients to the tissues for use by the cells. Chia also facilitates the growth and regeneration of tissue during pregnancy and lactation, and aids the regeneration of muscles for conditioning athletes and bodybuilders. For the dieter, this means feeling full with no more peaks and valleys in blood sugar levels.

The fastest and easiest way to take chia seed is to add one tablespoon chia seed into an eight-ounce glass of water or juice, stir to break up any lumps, let sit about five minutes, stir again, and then drink. You can also use it to make a versatile gel, which can be added to jams, jellies, peanut butter, milkshakes, nut spreads, smoothies, hot or cold cereals, yogurts, mustard, catsup, tartar sauce, barbecue sauces, etc. as a fat replacer, for energy and endurance, or for added great taste.

Here’s how to make the gel, which has a slightly nutty flavor:

Put nine parts water in a seal able plastic container. Slowly pour one part seed into the water, then mix with a wire whisk or fork. This process will avoid any clumping of the seed. Wait a few minutes and stir again to break up any clumps, let stand ten minutes, and stir again. Store up to two weeks in the refrigerator. Add the gel, between 50 to 70 percent by volume, to any of the above-mentioned foods, mix well, and taste. You will notice a very smooth texture, with the integrity of the flavor intact, but you have added 50 to 70 percent more volume to your food and have displaced calories and fat by incorporating an ingredient that is ninety percent water!

Chia gel causes a slow release of carbohydrates and an equally slow converting of carbohydrates into glucose (blood sugar) for energy. The outer layer of chia seeds is rich in mucilloid-soluble fiber, intended to keep the seeds from drying out in desert air. When chia seeds are mixed with water or stomach juices, a gel forms that creates a physical barrier between the carbohydrates and the digestive enzymes that break them down. The carbohydrates are digested eventually, but at a slow and uniform rate. There is no insulin surge or spike needed to lower the blood sugar level after eating chia.

RECIPES FOR YOU TO TRY!!!

These were ALL found on the Gone Raw Website!!! The link is located to the right under the BLOGROLL!

1) Blueberry Strawberry Chia Pie with Almond/Hemp Crust which you can see here. I will try to make this sometime this evening or over the weekend and post the picture and the process!

2) Vanilla Soft Serve – Here is the link

3) The Purple People Healer.  I thought this was a great one!  Here it is!

So there you have it folks! Some info for ya!

Thanks for STOPPING BY!!!

Namaste!

*Chia For Health

The New Raw Review – Number 2 :)

It has been quite sometime since I posted anything…

My days have been filled with the usualy fast pace of life and reading.

The three books I have been reading are: Juice Fasting and Detoxification by Steve Meyerowitz, The Sprouting Book by Ann Wigmore, The Hippocrates Diet by Ann Wigmore

This is the first book I read.  It is an easy read with lots of information regarding the why? what? when? how? questions about Detoxing your body.

The book is informative and offers guidelines for those who ordinarily wouln’t know what to do.  A Great Book for First timers.

I appreciated that the book went into Water Fasting, Juice Fasting, Detoxification, Weight Loss, Drink Recipes, Healing Crisis, Organs of Elimination, Excercises, and Coming off the Fast. These are usually areas that are unknown unless you read this book or one similar that would really go into what is happening before, during and after.

If you have about a day or two free then I would suggest this book.  I was able to ger through most of it in one sitting, but since life has so many responsibilities I had to finish it the next day.

I figured this was the best one to start with since I am planning, and have been planning another cleanse.  It is almost time for another parasite clease as well.  Usually every 6 months they should be done -or- if there was significant travel then you should do one every three months.

BOOK #2

This book was written by the late Ann Wigmore.  There was a plethora of information regarding the effects of Live Sprouts on the body.

For instance, Did you know Potassium is noted as the “Youth Mineral”?  Potassium helps the body maintain smooth tight skin.  It also helps maintain the proper alkalinity of the blood. Almond, Sesame, sunflower, mung, and cow pea sprouts supply more potassium than many other fruits and vegetables.

Alfalfa, fenugreek, lentil, adzuki, and mung sprouts are good sources of iron needed for red blood cell formation and the transport of oxygen from the lungs to the cells.

Alfalfa sprouts and sprouted pumkin seeds are high in zinc.  Zinc is essential for the synthesis of protein, liver function and in the healing of cuts and wounds.

When hemoglobin molecules circulate in the bloodstream, they carry oxygen to the cells throughout the body.  What is most like hemoglobin?  Chlorophyll!  That’s right.  A combo of Celery, Spinach and Parsley is great for our bodies.  (P.S. Just like Coconut Water is like our blood Plasma!;) Isn’t nature beautiful!)

Toxicity of blood, which is the cause of most illnesses like cancer is reduced in every case.

Antioxidants such as vitamins A,C, and E prevent the oxidation of fats in the blood, threby inhibiting the formation of free radicals in the body.  Vitamin C prevents free radicals from being formed and keeps Vitamin A and E from being destoyed.

Since food enzymes abound in sprouts, they are our best bet against againg!  The more cooked food we consume-the less enzymes we intake-therefore the quicker we age! (NO THANK YOU!!!)

Lastly, Enyme rich foods like sprouts, fresh fruits, veggies and their juices are the most important factors in slowing the aging clock!!!

Although an extremly interesting book with tons of knowledge, I could have done without the animal testing citations!!  It seemed sad to think about the monkeys that were given certain foods to attain clogged arteries, only to be given sprouts to help their predicament.  Of course I don’t think Ann Wigmore conducted the study, I still felt sad for the animals…

This book was a great read and perfect for those interested in beginning to SPROUT!!!

This was quite a book.  It explains all of the necessary food for optimum health.  It also goes into the complete system used at the Hippocrates Optimal Health institute as well as break down each food and why it is good for you and your body.

I think if you read this book, you may not need to read “The Sprouting Book”. Just my opinion!

Again there were citations of studies done on animals.  Not my fave as far as reasons to believe the facts, but still helpful and informative!!  I noted this above as well.

There are only a few days left for the GIVEAWAY!!! You can see that information here.

Don’t forget to enter and learn to leave less of a footprint on this earth we live on!!!

Namaste!

Enter the Cilantro!

Well Readers…I finally decided to try KELP NOODLES.  The package says their RAW, but I am a little skeptical about that fact…

Anyway, I decied to make a Cilantro Pumpkin Seed Pesto for the Kelp Noodles.  More than anything I wanted 1) to know what they tasted like and 2) I didn’t want to attach any one countries cuisine to the noodle until I had tasted the noodle.

Initially these noodles are kind of chewy and crunchy in a strange sort of way.  I know that sounds ridiculous, but it’s true.  The more they soak in whatever sauce you use, they begin to be much more like a glass noodle found in Asian Cuisine.

So here is the package of the noodles…

Here are the noodles after I rinsed them…

Since the noodles looked a bit like a Glass Noodle I borrowed the cilantro from Thai food flavors + Borrowed the Pesto / Herb Paste type of sauce from Italian Food + and a bit of Mexican with the Serrano Chili and Pumpkin Seeds = Cilantro Pumpkin Seed Pesto.

Cilantro Pumpkin Seed Pesto

1 Bunch Cilantro

1 Serrano Chili

Juice of 1 Lime

Juice of 1 Lemon

2 Cloves Garlic

8 Cherry Tomatoes, Halved

1/4 cup olive oil

1 splash toasted sesame seed oil

1 Handful of Black Sesame Seeds,

Preparation: Halve Cherry Tomatoes and set aside.  Place all ingredients, (except Black Sesame Seeds) into Food Processor and process until you have a nice fragrant paste.  Mix into noodles and add the Black Sesame Seeds. Serve on two plates and garnish with Tomatoes.

Here is the finished plate!

I added a salad on the side.  I used the sauce you see around the noodles as the dressing.

Notes: I don’t know that I will buy these noodles ever again.  However the next time I make this type of Pesto, I will use a Zucchini Noodle instead.

Sprout Update

Sunflower

The sunflower sprouts have filled the jar.  I needed to give them more space and have moved 3/4 of the jar into a colander, and left the 1/4 of the jar filled with Sunflower sprouts .

Here is the Colander filled with the other sunflower sprouts…

The next morning this is what the Sunflower sprouts looked in the jar…

And the Colander…

Radish

Lot’s more little green leaves!! Yeah! This is so exciting!!! Darker green as well.  The jar is at 3/4 of the way full! Wow!  There are some that are a really pretty red/magenta type of color.  Can you see them?  Those must be the China Rose Radish Seeds.

The next morning this is what the radish sprouts looked like! These are almost ready to eat!!!

Peas

These tails are about 2″ at this point.  The first set of leaves are forming and barely beginning to turn green.

Look at the incredible Green color that emerged in the morning!! The second set of leaves are emerging! This is wild stuff!

I will update the sprout pictures as they grow.  Tonight when I arrive home the Radish will be ready to eat.  I admit I sampled a taste and they were SPIIIICY! YUM! LOVE IT!

Thanks for reading!

Namaste!

Quantum “Cinco” Salsa a la Guaca!

This year all of the usual festivities for Cinco de Mayo were pretty much non-exsistent.  Usually people are making a big deal about the Beers and Taco Special, Margaritas and Chips, Guacamole & Salsa.  Not this year.  Maybe it is the economy, maybe it is the political issues occuring in society in regards to Mexico, who knows.

So, I thought – I will celebrate it in a very “Quantum” fashion…

quan·tum (-t)

1. A quantity or amount.

2. A specified portion.

3. Something that can be counted or measured.

So I came up with the Quantuam “Cinco” Salsa a la Guaca! giggle..giggle!

Before I give you the recipe, I will tell you a little about the genesis of this recipe, besides being silly on Cico de Mayo.

In Los Angeles you can find a Mexican Restaurant, Taco Stand (Taqueria), Taco Truck, and even a Taco Cart all over the city.  Probably in closer proximity to each other than a McDonalds is.  There are loads of different places to have Mexican Food.

There is a place called CIRO’S.  This was the first time I had a chunky guacamole.  It was much more like a heavenly bowl of chunky avocado soup!  Since then, I make a chunky style of my own.  Definitly Natural, Definitly Tasty and Definitly KICK ASS!

QUANTUM “CINCO” SALSA

Servings 2

1 Serrano Chile

1 Yellow Chili

3 Tomatillos

Juice of 1 Lemon

1 cup Cilantro

2 tbs. Mint

8 Cherry Tomatoes, Halved

2 Avocados, cubed

Preparation: Cube the Avocado and Halve the Cherry Tomatoes last.  Add all of the other ingredients to the Food Processor and process until chunky.  Be careful not to make it smooth!! Add the chuncks of Avocado and the cherry tomatoes.

SPROUT UPDATE

Sunflower Sprouts

The first 1/4 of the jar was filled with the soaked sunflower seeds.  At this point the growth of the sprouts has reached 1/2.  They are starting to show a small root structure now!   I also read that you can eat these sprouts at any point of the process.  To wait for the greens stage the sprout must be 4″ tall.

The next morning the Sunflower Sprouts looked like this…

Approx. 1 1/2 inches higher in the jar than the night before!!! This is so exciting.  I find myself thinking about my sprouts when I am at my store.

Radish Sprouts

Green Tops are showing now!   Little leaves.  These seeds are part of a general group called Brassica seeds.  There are many different types.  I will be covering them as time passes.  Initially I put 2 T of seeds in the jar.  The jar is filled about 1/3 of the way.

The next morning this is what the Radish sprouts looked like…

More Leaves!! More Sprouts! More Life!!!

Now these guys are awesome!!! They have tremendously long tails and the jar is filled about 1″ higher than the peas were when this process first started.

And in the morning even Cooler!!! Check out these peas!!!

The jar is almost full of pea sprouts at this point! The jar was filled 3/4 of the way by morning! Love and Life is BEAUTIFUL!!!

Thanks for reading! Join the GIVEAWAY! Learn about being low impact on this wonderful earth!

NEW DVD Giveaway ~ Everfresh Organic Soup!

Since the weather has been heating up here in Los Angeles there are so many signs of life!!

Cactus Blooms…

Even some wonderful birds living in the back lot of my store!! They have a baby bird learning to fly.

Here is one of the parents.  Can you see them on the corner of the lattice?…

And here is the baby.  It’s hidden within the Morning Glory.  Can you see it?…

And of course my wonderful sprouts!!!

Sprout Update – 040410 – First Rinse

Last night I rinsed the sprouts right away!! All of them showed signifigant growth!

The Radish seeds were begining to show their tails!!!

The Peas Sprouts as well!!! Blurry, I know but you can get the idea, right? Can you see the little tail???

And the Sunflower sprouts!! I am so EXCITED about these!!! If I could sing a beautiful chorus, I would!! These make me feel so happy!   All of the white you see are the sprouts busting out of the black seed! L-I-F-E!!

Here is the pack I started with.  The Avocados in the background are in the soup I made below!

Sprout Update – 050510 – Second Rinse – (Morning )

Here are the Radish sprouts in just 12 hours from the first pix! Total of 24 hours at this point!!

Here are the pea sprouts! So exciting! In just 12 hours look how much these have grown!

The same with these wonderful little guys!!! Sunflowers seeds and sprouts!!! LOVE IT!

I was blessed with some DIVINE Avocados!  A customer brought them into the store the other day.  I was so pleased!!! I put them in a paper bag immediately and they were ready a few days later…

Last night I used those avocados to make a creamy soup that would not only be cooling to the body, but refreshing to the mind.

Everfresh Avocado Citrus Soup

2 Ripe Avocados, cubed

1 peeled cucumber, deseeded and cubed

Juice of 1 Lemon

Juice of 2 Limes

Juice of 1 orange

2 tbs. Fresh Mint

1/2 cup Fresh Cilantro, tightly packed

1/2 cup RAW Pumpkin Seeds

1/2 cup water

1 splash Sesame Seed oil

2 tbs Olive Oil

Preparation: Place the avocado, cucumber and RAW pumpkin seeds into the Food Processor and process.  While it is processing, add the lemon juice, lime juice and orange juice. Open the Food processor and scrape the sides down.  Add the cilantro, mint and sesame oil.  Process again.   I added the water a little at a time, just until the soup was smooth.

Tomato Corn Relish

8 Cherry Tomatos, cut in half

Kernals from 1 ear of Corn

1 tbs. Mint, cut into strips (chiffonade style)

1/2 cup Cilantro, chopped

Preparation: Mix all ingredients together and add to the top of the soup as a garnish!

Here is Bowl #1…

Bowl #2

After dinner the soup felt really good in my stomach.  All I was missing was some LIVE crackers.  I would like to make some Kale Crackers I think.  Maybe some sun dried tomato black olive crackers… Hmmmm..

Stay tuned…

And for the next giveway!  A DVD called NO IMPACT MAN

I used this image since it describes a little of what this Documentary is about.  It changed my view of packaging, and various other issues I hadn’t really thought about.  I’m not saying he had the perfect equation,  I think he should’ve gone raw, but I think you should see it!  I am giving this away since loving the earth is one of the main reasons I am a Vegan Vegetarian Raw Yogini.  (Though I admit, I need to work on the Yogini part  LOTS MORE!! – Patience Patience there will time for EVERYTHING!

—————> To Join the Raffle <——————

1) Send me a recipe – (I am still waiting for someone to send me a recipe to try and feature…Come on! Send me a recipe!!!!)

2) Comment on any blog posting after May 1, 2010.  The last day to enter the raffle is May 30, 2010 @ Midnight.

3)Subscribe to this blog!!!

That’s it! Simple!

Thank you for reading!!

I thought I would leave you with a picture of the Master of RELAXATION!

Live in Light and Love!!

Namaste!