healthyholisticliving--2020-08-05--The World’s Longest-Living People Share This Hobby – Why Studies Say It Can Help Add Years To Your L

The World’s Longest-Living People Share This Hobby – Why Studies Say It Can Help Add Years To Your Life

In certain parts of the world known as “ Blue Zones ” , people tend to live a lot longer .
In fact , well beyond 100 years is fairly common .
It ’ s no secret that life expectancy is much higher in these regions… the secret is in why it ’ s so .
Dan Buettner is a longevity expert , and the author of The Blue Zones Kitchen , a special kind of cookbook .
It brings together the science of longevity and the diets followed by residents of Blue Zones .
( 1 ) In his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ live into the triple digits , he has noticed certain similarities .
Gardening is one of them .
Want To Live Beyond 100 Years ?
Build A Garden .
“ [ In ] all Blue Zones , people continue to garden even into their 90s and 100s , ” said Buettner .
“ Gardening is the epitome of a Blue Zone activity because it ’ s sort of a nudge : You plant the seeds and you ’ re going to be nudged in the next three to four months to water it @ @ @ @ @ @ @ And when you ’ re done , you ’ re going to eat an organic vegetable , which you presumably like because you planted it.
” ( 2 ) As you might expect , people who lead healthier lives tend to live longer .
In studying the behavior of Blue Zones inhabitants Mr. Buettner has been able to pinpoint certain key areas that make a big difference where longevity is concerned .
Those who garden find themselves checking a few of the important boxes .
Folks who live a long and healthy life @ @ @ @ @ @ @ But this doesn ’ t mean they spend an hour a day at spin class , or that they never skip leg day .
They may not even have a leg day or a regular gym .
People who “ move naturally ” do things like walk to work , and take the stairs instead of the elevator .
Of course , there is nothing wrong with setting aside an hour for the gym , or setting the intention of working out every day .
The point with “ moving naturally ” is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ body are a natural part of your day and your life .
There is an ebb and flow to your activity , it ’ s not just go-go-go all the time .
With the garden , you can just water your plants , then move on to something else .
Come back later and do a little weeding .
The garden becomes a part of your life .
( 2 ) Sew The Seeds Of Mental Health With A Garden Turns out that gardening is great for your brain , too .
A @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , in particular daily gardening , helped to stave off the effects of dementia .
( 3 ) It makes sense ; being outdoors in the fresh air , moving naturally , and caring for another living thing is a great way to keep yourself in the here and now .
Tying it all together is the fruits of your labor : the actual edible food that you have moved naturally and cared selflessly to bring about !
This food is your creation .
You worked in tandem with Mother Nature to invite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Each day you visit , water and weed these plots of earth , coaxing more life from each plant until one day it bears food that in turn gives you life .
You see how very integral you are to the ecosystem , and to your own good health as well .
You appreciate the work that went into this tomato or pepper or head of lettuce , and you have a relationship with your food… the source of your body ’ s nourishment .
In this way , it ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ garden can contribute to longevity .
It would be hard for it not to !
With so many important pillars of a healthy lifestyle built right into the activity , it ’ s like we humans were practically made to commune with the land .

In certain parts of the world known as “Blue Zones”, people tend to live a lot longer. In fact, well beyond 100 years is fairly common. It’s no secret that life expectancy is much higher in these regions… the secret is in why it’s so.
Dan Buettner is a longevity expert, and the author of The Blue Zones Kitchen, a special kind of cookbook. It brings together the science of longevity and the diets followed by residents of Blue Zones. (1) In his studies of the lifestyles of people who live into the triple digits, he has noticed certain similarities. Gardening is one of them.
Want To Live Beyond 100 Years? Build A Garden.
“[In] all Blue Zones, people continue to garden even into their 90s and 100s,” said Buettner. “Gardening is the epitome of a Blue Zone activity because it’s sort of a nudge: You plant the seeds and you’re going to be nudged in the next three to four months to water it, weed it, harvest it. And when you’re done, you’re going to eat an organic vegetable, which you presumably like because you planted it.” (2)
As you might expect, people who lead healthier lives tend to live longer. In studying the behavior of Blue Zones inhabitants Mr. Buettner has been able to pinpoint certain key areas that make a big difference where longevity is concerned. Those who garden find themselves checking a few of the important boxes.
Tending A Garden Means Moving Naturally
Folks who live a long and healthy life tend to move their bodies often. But this doesn’t mean they spend an hour a day at spin class, or that they never skip leg day. They may not even have a leg day or a regular gym. People who “move naturally” do things like walk to work, and take the stairs instead of the elevator.
Of course, there is nothing wrong with setting aside an hour for the gym, or setting the intention of working out every day. The point with “moving naturally” is that the movements you make with your body are a natural part of your day and your life. There is an ebb and flow to your activity, it’s not just go-go-go all the time. With the garden, you can just water your plants, then move on to something else. Come back later and do a little weeding. The garden becomes a part of your life. (2)
Sew The Seeds Of Mental Health With A Garden
Turns out that gardening is great for your brain, too. A 2006 study found that maintaining physical activity, in particular daily gardening, helped to stave off the effects of dementia. (3) It makes sense; being outdoors in the fresh air, moving naturally, and caring for another living thing is a great way to keep yourself in the here and now.
A Garden Gives You Good Grub
Tying it all together is the fruits of your labor: the actual edible food that you have moved naturally and cared selflessly to bring about! This food is your creation. You worked in tandem with Mother Nature to invite these little seeds to grow and thrive. Each day you visit, water and weed these plots of earth, coaxing more life from each plant until one day it bears food that in turn gives you life.
You see how very integral you are to the ecosystem, and to your own good health as well. You appreciate the work that went into this tomato or pepper or head of lettuce, and you have a relationship with your food… the source of your body’s nourishment.
In this way, it’s so easy to see how tending a garden can contribute to longevity. It would be hard for it not to! With so many important pillars of a healthy lifestyle built right into the activity, it’s like we humans were practically made to commune with the land.


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-06--“What’s Wrong With My Cat?” Online Group Owners Posting Pics of Their Malfunctioning Cats

Depending on how often you browse the internet , and the collection of sites you visit , you may or may not be familiar with the website Reddit .
Today ’ s story comes from there , about one of the most wholesome subreddits you could ever hope to find : goofy cats .
Reddit is a website with a multiplicity of different views .
However , nothing brings the internet together like a place to look at cats –especially cats misbehaving .
If you aren ’ t familiar , it may help to conceptualize Reddit ( stylized as Reddit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be familiar with .
Reddit is closer to a bookstore of websites than a website in and of itself .
Under the banner of Reddit are themed boards for posting , known as subreddits , each with their own topics .
Reddit tends to be a hands-off site , so the subreddits don ’ t all have a consistent theme .
Because of this , you can have subreddits dedicated for women , like r/trollxchromosomes , whose heading proclaims , alongside LGBT+ and Black Lives Matter flags , “ TrollX : It ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ your cells , it ’ s about the X chromosomes in your heart , ” alongside subreddits which refer to women as “ hamsters , ” because of the supposedly circular and inferior logic of their thinking .
In fact , Reddit has been in trouble for hosting subs that violate the safety of others , such as subreddits that encourage mass violence against people in relationships , and subs used to share child pornography .
In June of 2020 , however , Reddit banned 2,000 of these dangerous subreddits .
( 1 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is as divisive .
r/WhatsWrongWithYourCat , unlike other subreddits , has no list of rules for users to follow .
It has no introduction to what the community is .
Its header is “ that ’ s just not right.
” At first , it seems to be a mysterious place .
Should you turn here for advice on a sick cat ?
( 3 ) But a scroll through the subreddit reveals a more wholesome and happy purpose .
r/WhatsWrongWithYourCat is a place to post pictures of the goofy things your cats @ @ @ @ @ @ @ underwear as you use the bathroom to perching on your car mirrors .
Some are videos of cats , some are still pictures .
Some cats are given names , and some are referred to as “ lumps.
” Some cats are posted with explanations , and some posts let the cats speak for themselves .
( 3 ) r/WhatsWrongWithYourCat has a birthday coming up .
The subreddit was started nearly three years ago–August 11th , 2015 .
As of August 5th , 2020 , it has 208,370 members in the group .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ post a picture .
Like Facebook , a Reddit user will have a “ feed ” when they log in , collecting new and “ hot ” ( or trending ) posts from the subreddits they subscribe to in one central location .
But there ’ s a lot of posts–and you can spend your time in quarantine seeing if you can see all the posts about cuddly cats that the subreddit has to offer .
( 3 )

Depending on how often you browse the internet, and the collection of sites you visit, you may or may not be familiar with the website Reddit. Today’s story comes from there, about one of the most wholesome subreddits you could ever hope to find: goofy cats.
Reddit is a website with a multiplicity of different views. However, nothing brings the internet together like a place to look at cats –especially cats misbehaving.
What Is Reddit?
If you aren’t familiar, it may help to conceptualize Reddit (stylized as Reddit) as different from websites you may be familiar with. Reddit is closer to a bookstore of websites than a website in and of itself. Under the banner of Reddit are themed boards for posting, known as subreddits, each with their own topics.
How Do Subreddits Work?
Reddit tends to be a hands-off site, so the subreddits don’t all have a consistent theme. Because of this, you can have subreddits dedicated for women, like r/trollxchromosomes, whose heading proclaims, alongside LGBT+ and Black Lives Matter flags, “TrollX: It’s not about the X chromosomes in your cells, it’s about the X chromosomes in your heart,” alongside subreddits which refer to women as “hamsters,” because of the supposedly circular and inferior logic of their thinking. In fact, Reddit has been in trouble for hosting subs that violate the safety of others, such as subreddits that encourage mass violence against people in relationships, and subs used to share child pornography. In June of 2020, however, Reddit banned 2,000 of these dangerous subreddits. (1, 2)
r/WhatsWrongWithYourCat
But not ever subreddit is as divisive. r/WhatsWrongWithYourCat, unlike other subreddits, has no list of rules for users to follow. It has no introduction to what the community is. Its header is “that’s just not right.” At first, it seems to be a mysterious place. Should you turn here for advice on a sick cat? (3)
Cats And Cuteness Cuteness Overload
But a scroll through the subreddit reveals a more wholesome and happy purpose. r/WhatsWrongWithYourCat is a place to post pictures of the goofy things your cats are doing, from hiding in your underwear as you use the bathroom to perching on your car mirrors.
Some are videos of cats, some are still pictures. Some cats are given names, and some are referred to as “lumps.” Some cats are posted with explanations, and some posts let the cats speak for themselves. (3)
Neverending Cats
r/WhatsWrongWithYourCat has a birthday coming up. The subreddit was started nearly three years ago–August 11th, 2015. As of August 5th, 2020, it has 208,370 members in the group. Not every member of a subreddit will post a picture. Like Facebook, a Reddit user will have a “feed” when they log in, collecting new and “hot” (or trending) posts from the subreddits they subscribe to in one central location. But there’s a lot of posts–and you can spend your time in quarantine seeing if you can see all the posts about cuddly cats that the subreddit has to offer. (3)


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-10--Man Builds Incredible Off-Grid Cave Home In Mountains Of Utah

Grant Johnson is definitely one of those people that you would describe as “ inspirational ” .
With a rugged and outdoorsy vibe , a strong sense of self , and an articulate demeanor , Grant has always known what he wanted in life .
And the time it takes to get what he wants has never been an issue either .
Not one to rush things , Grant spent more than 20 years creating his cave home .
The purpose with which he lives his life is evident in every nook and cranny of this incredible 5700 square foot @ @ @ @ @ @ @ if you happen to be in the neighborhood , you can stay there too .
As you might be thinking , 5700 square feet is an awful lot of space .
So he carved out a 2 bedroom rental for guests to come share the experience with him .
( 1 , 3 ) Right in the thick of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah , is where the 40-acres that Grant calls home is located .
In 1977 when he put a trailer here , the whole area was little more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ now it ’ s home to three gardens , an orchard , pasture land , and a whole menagerie of animals .
He has created an entire ecosystem in his little haven off the beaten path .
But the real star of the show is this mind-blowing cave .
( 2 ) Blasted out of a 60-foot-tall 150-foot-wide rock , Grant ’ s cave home is truly a sight to behold .
A labor of love stretching from 1980 to 2003 , it took a lot of time , effort , and resources @ @ @ @ @ @ @ blasting with dynamite .
Then it would sit for long periods of time while he went off to work , and get the money he needed to take the project to the next step .
( 1 , 2 ) When he began working the land , one of the first things he did was plant the orchard .
Knowing it would take a long time for the trees to bear fruit , it was important to get that going right away .
He also hooked up an irrigation system to the pond @ @ @ @ @ @ @ gravity and a water wheel , he was able to generate electricity for his homestead .
He grows all manner of fruits and vegetables and has pigs he raises for meat too .
He has plenty of pastureland for his cows so that they are well-fed and contribute to the whole ecosystem .
These are some of the many ways that Grant and this land work together to provide a healthful , natural life out in the middle of nowhere , Utah .
( 1 , 3 ) Grant says he is surprised @ @ @ @ @ @ @ homestead of his .
It ’ s a happy side effect to be sure , and he certainly does find it inspiring too , but that wasn ’ t something he set out to do… provide an inspiring place .
Instead , Grant set out to live his life the way he knew he always wanted to .
It took him a while to get there , but perhaps that ’ s what is so inspiring about this home and Grant ’ s story too .
He did always know what he wanted… @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , even if slowly .
Many of us don ’ t have the luxury of knowing what we want , or the time to realize our true dreams .
So when guests come to stay in Grant ’ s cave home , perhaps that ’ s what they ’ re feeling : that they too have all the potential in the world , and it ’ s time to go out and get it .
They recharge here .
Grant says that life in the cave is “ positive living in a negative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a perfect way to put it .
( 1 )

Grant Johnson is definitely one of those people that you would describe as “inspirational”. With a rugged and outdoorsy vibe, a strong sense of self, and an articulate demeanor, Grant has always known what he wanted in life. And the time it takes to get what he wants has never been an issue either.
Not one to rush things, Grant spent more than 20 years creating his cave home. The purpose with which he lives his life is evident in every nook and cranny of this incredible 5700 square foot dwelling near Boulder, Utah. And if you happen to be in the neighborhood, you can stay there too. As you might be thinking, 5700 square feet is an awful lot of space. So he carved out a 2 bedroom rental for guests to come share the experience with him. (1, 3)
Home Sweet Cave Home
Right in the thick of the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument in Utah, is where the 40-acres that Grant calls home is located. In 1977 when he put a trailer here, the whole area was little more than sand dunes and rocks. But now it’s home to three gardens, an orchard, pasture land, and a whole menagerie of animals. He has created an entire ecosystem in his little haven off the beaten path. But the real star of the show is this mind-blowing cave. (2)
Blasted out of a 60-foot-tall 150-foot-wide rock, Grant’s cave home is truly a sight to behold. A labor of love stretching from 1980 to 2003, it took a lot of time, effort, and resources too. He spent 8 winters there blasting with dynamite. Then it would sit for long periods of time while he went off to work, and get the money he needed to take the project to the next step. (1, 2)
When he began working the land, one of the first things he did was plant the orchard. Knowing it would take a long time for the trees to bear fruit, it was important to get that going right away. He also hooked up an irrigation system to the pond up the hill from him. Using gravity and a water wheel, he was able to generate electricity for his homestead. He grows all manner of fruits and vegetables and has pigs he raises for meat too. He has plenty of pastureland for his cows so that they are well-fed and contribute to the whole ecosystem. These are some of the many ways that Grant and this land work together to provide a healthful, natural life out in the middle of nowhere, Utah. (1, 3)
Positive Living In A Negative Space
Grant says he is surprised at how inspiring his guests find this homestead of his. It’s a happy side effect to be sure, and he certainly does find it inspiring too, but that wasn’t something he set out to do… provide an inspiring place.
Instead, Grant set out to live his life the way he knew he always wanted to. It took him a while to get there, but perhaps that’s what is so inspiring about this home and Grant’s story too. He did always know what he wanted… he was always moving in that direction, even if slowly. Many of us don’t have the luxury of knowing what we want, or the time to realize our true dreams. So when guests come to stay in Grant’s cave home, perhaps that’s what they’re feeling: that they too have all the potential in the world, and it’s time to go out and get it. They recharge here.
Grant says that life in the cave is “positive living in a negative space”, and that’s a perfect way to put it. (1)


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-10--Heart Damage Found In Coronavirus Patients Months After Recovering From COVID-19, Study Says

A German study has found evidence that COVID-19 may impact the heart even after patients have recovered from the virus .
Researchers found heart damage in COVID-19 patients months after their recovery .
( 1 , 2 ) The study , published in the peer-reviewed journal JAMA Cardiology , examined 100 patients from the University Hospital Frankfurt COVID-19 Registry .
The ages of the patients ranged between 45 and 53 .
Two-thirds of the patients in the study were able to recover from the virus at home .
The other 33 patients required hospitalization .
( 1 , 2 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ asthma , hypertension , diabetes , known coronary artery disease , and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease .
However , none of the patients had known heart failure or cardiomyopathy before contracting COVID-19 .
( 1 ) Researchers examined cardiac magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI ) taken two and a half months after the patients were diagnosed with the virus .
They compared them with imaging from healthy volunteers who had not had COVID-19 .
The volunteer groups were matched by age and sex and separated by healthy volunteers and risk factor-matched patients .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ heart abnormalities in 78 of the patients .
A group of 60 of those patients showed ongoing myocardial inflammation .
Researchers wrote that these findings were “ independent of preexisting conditions , severity and overall course of the acute illness , and the time from the original diagnosis.
” ( 1 ) This is a preliminary study that has some limitations .
However , as the researchers note , “ These findings indicate the need for ongoing investigation of the long-term cardiovascular consequences of COVID-19.
” ( 1 ) Without this study , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ possibility of heart damage from COVID-19 .
In the standard clinical setting , practitioners usually use an echocardiogram , which wouldn ’ t have seen these heart abnormalities .
The MRIs were necessary to find them because none of the patients in the study showed any symptoms .
( 2 ) “ When this came to our attention , we were struck , ” Dr. Clyde Yancy told USA TODAY .
Dr. Yancy is the chief cardiologist at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and an editor at JAMA Cardiology .
( 2 ) “ We @ @ @ @ @ @ @ heart failure… but it presents early evidence that there ’ s potentially injury to the heart , ” Yancy said .
( 2 ) The body has a high inflammatory response to COVID-19 .
According to Dr. Thomas Maddox , the chair of the American College of Cardiology ’ s Science and Quality Committee , ongoing heart inflammation could cause weakening of the cardiac muscle .
He told USA Today that , in limited cases , it could also cause irregular heartbeats .
( 2 ) While the study brings up an important @ @ @ @ @ @ @ community to consider , more studies are needed to confirm that the virus can cause heart damage .
Additionally , it would be helpful to have imaging of patients before they become sick .
This will help establish that COVID-19 can cause heart abnormalities .
( 2 ) “ We need to understand longer term clinical symptoms and outcome that might occur in patients who ’ ve had it and recovered , ” Maddox said to USA Today .
“ That will just take some time to look at as more and more @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( 1 )

Heart Damage Found in COVID-19 Patients
A German study has found evidence that COVID-19 may impact the heart even after patients have recovered from the virus. Researchers found heart damage in COVID-19 patients months after their recovery. (1, 2)
The study, published in the peer-reviewed journal JAMA Cardiology, examined 100 patients from the University Hospital Frankfurt COVID-19 Registry. The ages of the patients ranged between 45 and 53. Two-thirds of the patients in the study were able to recover from the virus at home. The other 33 patients required hospitalization. (1, 2)
Some patients had preexisting conditions, including asthma, hypertension, diabetes, known coronary artery disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. However, none of the patients had known heart failure or cardiomyopathy before contracting COVID-19. (1)
Researchers examined cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) taken two and a half months after the patients were diagnosed with the virus. They compared them with imaging from healthy volunteers who had not had COVID-19. The volunteer groups were matched by age and sex and separated by healthy volunteers and risk factor-matched patients. (1, 2)
Researchers found heart abnormalities in 78 of the patients. A group of 60 of those patients showed ongoing myocardial inflammation. Researchers wrote that these findings were “independent of preexisting conditions, severity and overall course of the acute illness, and the time from the original diagnosis.” (1)
This is a preliminary study that has some limitations. However, as the researchers note, “These findings indicate the need for ongoing investigation of the long-term cardiovascular consequences of COVID-19.” (1)
MRIs Find Heart Damage After COVID-19
Without this study, we may not have learned about the possibility of heart damage from COVID-19. In the standard clinical setting, practitioners usually use an echocardiogram, which wouldn’t have seen these heart abnormalities. The MRIs were necessary to find them because none of the patients in the study showed any symptoms. (2)
“When this came to our attention, we were struck,” Dr. Clyde Yancy told USA TODAY. Dr. Yancy is the chief cardiologist at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and an editor at JAMA Cardiology. (2)
“We’re not saying that COVID-19 causes heart failure… but it presents early evidence that there’s potentially injury to the heart,” Yancy said. (2)
The body has a high inflammatory response to COVID-19. According to Dr. Thomas Maddox, the chair of the American College of Cardiology’s Science and Quality Committee, ongoing heart inflammation could cause weakening of the cardiac muscle. He told USA Today that, in limited cases, it could also cause irregular heartbeats. (2)
Ongoing Studies Necessary
While the study brings up an important possible impact of COVID-19 for the medical community to consider, more studies are needed to confirm that the virus can cause heart damage. Additionally, it would be helpful to have imaging of patients before they become sick. This will help establish that COVID-19 can cause heart abnormalities. (2)
“We need to understand longer term clinical symptoms and outcome that might occur in patients who’ve had it and recovered,” Maddox said to USA Today. “That will just take some time to look at as more and more people get the infection and recover.” (1)


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-10--Why Growing Up On A Farm Is Good for Your Immune System

There ’ s been an idea , prevalent for years , that country living makes stronger kids .
The ‘ farm boy ’ archetype is a strong , tall , broad , and healthy boy .
But what ’ s the truth behind that ?
Is there something better on a farm ?
Is there a magic bullet that boosts the immune system ?
Interestingly , it turns out the answer is yes–but if you were guessing it was something as simple as “ air quality , ” you ’ re wrong .
“ Innate Immunity and Asthma Risk ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Medicine published a study on August 4th , 2016 , entitled “ Innate Immunity and Asthma Risk in Amish and Hutterite Farm Children.
” The study looked at two groups–the Amish community in Indiana and the South Dakota Hutterites .
These communities have “ lifestyles [ which ] are similar with respect to most of the factors known to influence the risk of asthma , including large sibship size , high rates of childhood vaccination , diets rich in fat , salt , and raw milk , low rates of childhood obesity @ @ @ @ @ @ @ exposure to tobacco smoke and air pollution , and taboos against indoor pets.
” However , there is one major difference–the Amish live on individual dairy farms , and use horses for plowing ; the Hutterites live on “ communal farms ” which use more modern , industrial farming techniques .
( 1 ) The Results Of The Farm Article On The Immune System When the results of the study came in , they were shocking .
The researchers compared 30 children from the Amish community and 30 from the Hutterite community .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ times more likely to have asthma than the Amish children .
What is the reason for it ?
So , what causes these white blood cells ?
There is one difference between these two communities ; consequently , it ’ s to this difference in farming practices we can turn .
The dust in Amish households , interestingly , is filled with bacteria from the farm animals .
Because the Hutterites use more modern technology , and the Amish use horses to plow their fields , there are more of these animal mores @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Amish children “ are exposed to an environment rich in microbes , showed exceedingly low rates of asthma and distinct immune profiles that suggest profound effects on innate immunity.
” The researchers even suggested that this research be used to create an immune system-boosting spray .
( 1 , 2 ) The Immune System , Farm Life , And The Hygiene Hypothesis Up to 10 % of school-aged children have asthma according to The New York Times .
Upsettingly , asthma is incurable and can cause lifelong issues .
Some children ‘ grow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
However , many don ’ t .
So , how could this spray prevent breathing issues ?
The spray works on the ‘ hygiene hypothesis ’ .
Children don ’ t get exposed to those microbes that pump up those neutrophils–and boost the immune system response–if their environment is too clean .
( 2 )

There’s been an idea, prevalent for years, that country living makes stronger kids. The ‘farm boy’ archetype is a strong, tall, broad, and healthy boy. But what’s the truth behind that? Is there something better on a farm? Is there a magic bullet that boosts the immune system?
Interestingly, it turns out the answer is yes–but if you were guessing it was something as simple as “air quality,” you’re wrong.
“Innate Immunity and Asthma Risk” On The Farm
The New England Journal of Medicine published a study on August 4th, 2016, entitled “Innate Immunity and Asthma Risk in Amish and Hutterite Farm Children.” The study looked at two groups–the Amish community in Indiana and the South Dakota Hutterites. These communities have “lifestyles [which] are similar with respect to most of the factors known to influence the risk of asthma, including large sibship size, high rates of childhood vaccination, diets rich in fat, salt, and raw milk, low rates of childhood obesity, long durations of breast-feeding, minimal exposure to tobacco smoke and air pollution, and taboos against indoor pets.” However, there is one major difference–the Amish live on individual dairy farms, and use horses for plowing; the Hutterites live on “communal farms” which use more modern, industrial farming techniques. (1)
The Results Of The Farm Article On The Immune System
When the results of the study came in, they were shocking. The researchers compared 30 children from the Amish community and 30 from the Hutterite community. Surprisingly, Hutterite children are almost four times more likely to have asthma than the Amish children. What is the reason for it?
The New York Times explains:
[The Amish children] all had a large proportion of neutrophils — white blood cells that are the immune system’s paramedics and are part of what is known as the innate immune system. These children’s neutrophils were newly emerged from their bone marrow, evidence of a continual low-grade reaction to microbial invaders.
(1, 2)
The Farm-Fresh Difference Of Immunity
So, what causes these white blood cells? There is one difference between these two communities; consequently, it’s to this difference in farming practices we can turn. The dust in Amish households, interestingly, is filled with bacteria from the farm animals. Because the Hutterites use more modern technology, and the Amish use horses to plow their fields, there are more of these animal mores brought into the house. Therefore, Amish children “are exposed to an environment rich in microbes, showed exceedingly low rates of asthma and distinct immune profiles that suggest profound effects on innate immunity.” The researchers even suggested that this research be used to create an immune system-boosting spray. (1, 2)
The Immune System, Farm Life, And The Hygiene Hypothesis
Up to 10% of school-aged children have asthma according to The New York Times. Upsettingly, asthma is incurable and can cause lifelong issues. Some children ‘grow out of it’ with lessened symptoms. However, many don’t. So, how could this spray prevent breathing issues? The spray works on the ‘hygiene hypothesis’. Children don’t get exposed to those microbes that pump up those neutrophils–and boost the immune system response–if their environment is too clean. (2)


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-10--Few People Know That Father’s Day Was Created Because Of A Mining Accident In West Virginia During T

Few People Know That Father’s Day Was Created Because Of A Mining Accident In West Virginia During The 1900s

“ Hallmark holidays ” get a bum rap .
Deemed fake by people believing they exist for the sole purpose of gift and card sales , often mistrust is directed at deserving holidays like Mother ’ s and Father ’ s Day .
However , each of these days has a legitimate reason we commemorate the most cherished people in our lives .
While Mother ’ s Day became an official holiday through President Woodrow Wilson in 1914 thanks to the persistence of a woman named Anna Jarvis , Father ’ s Day has a far sadder story .
( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was the Monongah Mining Disaster in 1907 that inspired Father ’ s Day .
It began with a church service the following year , honoring the 250 fathers killed in the West Virginia accident .
Although the death toll was 360 , the loss of 250 fathers left more than 1000 children fatherless .
( 3 ) There were only four people that survived the tragic explosion on December 6 , 1907 at the Fairmont Coal Company of Monongah , West Virginia .
While all but four men working in the number 6 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ four survivors recovered from the site died later .
As one of the worst mining accidents in American history , the mourning lasted for years .
( 3 ) With so many families now without their fathers , town resident Grace Golden Clayton felt something needed to be done .
Although unrelated to the accident , Grace had also recently lost her father , and understood the pain suffered by the children left behind .
To help ease their grief , she convinced her church pastor to hold a service in honor of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Grace thought a service in memory of the lost fathers would help heal not only the pain of her fellow townspeople but also her own .
The single service took place on July 5 , 1908 in what is now West Virginia ’ s United Methodist Church in Fairmont .
While it seemed that was that , the service proved to be the catalyst for an official Father ’ s Day almost 70-years later .
( 3 ) Two Years After The Mining Accident Two years after the single service in Fairmont , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ another woman had a plan .
Sonora Smart Dodd , a woman raised by a single father along with her five siblings realized the important role dads play in their children ’ s lives .
She began petitioning for an official Father ’ s Day around town and spoke to government officials about her idea .
As a result , Washington state became the first state to honor Father ’ s Day on June 19 , 1910 .
( 3 ) Although it took longer to gain traction than Mother ’ s Day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ encouraged states to follow suit .
In 1966 , President Lyndon Johnson launched the proclamation to make the third Sunday in June Father ’ s Day .
However , the final proclamation wasn ’ t signed to make Father ’ s Day permanent until 1972 , by President Richard Nixon .
( 3 ) The trick to honoring the ones we love doesn ’ t lie in honoring them a single day each year .
Instead , we should all make the effort in our everyday actions to show how much our loved @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mothers and fathers .

“Hallmark holidays” get a bum rap. Deemed fake by people believing they exist for the sole purpose of gift and card sales, often mistrust is directed at deserving holidays like Mother’s and Father’s Day. However, each of these days has a legitimate reason we commemorate the most cherished people in our lives. While Mother’s Day became an official holiday through President Woodrow Wilson in 1914 thanks to the persistence of a woman named Anna Jarvis, Father’s Day has a far sadder story. (1, 2, 3)
The Mining Accident That Inspired Father’s Day
It was the Monongah Mining Disaster in 1907 that inspired Father’s Day. It began with a church service the following year, honoring the 250 fathers killed in the West Virginia accident. Although the death toll was 360, the loss of 250 fathers left more than 1000 children fatherless. (3)
One Of America’s Worst Mining Accidents
There were only four people that survived the tragic explosion on December 6, 1907 at the Fairmont Coal Company of Monongah, West Virginia. While all but four men working in the number 6 and 8 mines died instantly, the four survivors recovered from the site died later. As one of the worst mining accidents in American history, the mourning lasted for years. (3)
Mining Accident Triggers Grieving
With so many families now without their fathers, town resident Grace Golden Clayton felt something needed to be done. Although unrelated to the accident, Grace had also recently lost her father, and understood the pain suffered by the children left behind. To help ease their grief, she convinced her church pastor to hold a service in honor of the lost fathers. (3)
A Single Service Commemorates The Mining Accident
Grace thought a service in memory of the lost fathers would help heal not only the pain of her fellow townspeople but also her own. The single service took place on July 5, 1908 in what is now West Virginia’s United Methodist Church in Fairmont. While it seemed that was that, the service proved to be the catalyst for an official Father’s Day almost 70-years later. (3)
Two Years After The Mining Accident
Two years after the single service in Fairmont, many miles away in Spokane, Washington another woman had a plan. Sonora Smart Dodd, a woman raised by a single father along with her five siblings realized the important role dads play in their children’s lives. She began petitioning for an official Father’s Day around town and spoke to government officials about her idea. As a result, Washington state became the first state to honor Father’s Day on June 19, 1910. (3)
Although it took longer to gain traction than Mother’s Day, in 1924, President Calvin Coolidge encouraged states to follow suit. In 1966, President Lyndon Johnson launched the proclamation to make the third Sunday in June Father’s Day. However, the final proclamation wasn’t signed to make Father’s Day permanent until 1972, by President Richard Nixon. (3)
The trick to honoring the ones we love doesn’t lie in honoring them a single day each year. Instead, we should all make the effort in our everyday actions to show how much our loved ones mean to us — especially our mothers and fathers.


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-10--Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies

Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies

Dear Reader : These are extraordinary times we ’ re living in , and while we always have a view toward health and wellness , sometimes the concept of self-care and wellness becomes a little different .
As our needs shift , self-care might look like an over-the-top blanket fort in the living room… or decadent treats that aren ’ t normally a part of your diet .
We believe that sometimes it ’ s OK to forego the usual self-care routine .
That ’ s why the Pandemic Pantry series includes some “ yummy but maybe not for every @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Enjoy !
When I think of the word “ cookie ” , chocolate chip always springs to mind .
Of course , there are a thousand and one different kinds of cookies with nary a chocolate chip in the recipe , but for whatever reason , the stock photo in my head of a cookie is the old familiar brown on brown chocolate chip cookie .
So when I saw the recipe photo for these beautiful lemon cream cheese cookies , I did a double-take .
They ’ re so… light , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sunshine on a plate , and thanks to their tangy citrus icing they taste exactly like you would expect summertime to taste .
They are pretty enough for a baby shower or afternoon tea , but easy and approachable enough for a backyard BBQ with neighbors .
The cream cheese gives these a light , cakey texture that you ’ ll really love .
In fact , it may even get you brainstorming other ways to add more cream cheese into your life .
• None Heat your oven to 350 F and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or silicone baking mat .
• None In a medium bowl , combine the flour and baking powder and set aside .
• None With an electric mixer , beat the butter and cream cheese in a large bowl until light and fluffy .
• None To this , add the sugar and beat for about 3 minutes , until light and fluffy again .
• None Next , beat in the egg and 1 tablespoon of lemon zest .
• None Add the flour mixture , lemon juice , and lemon extract @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a cookie scoop or tablespoon , drop the cookie dough onto the baking sheet .
• None Coat the bottom of a drinking glass with sugar .
Use this to flatten each cookie a little .
• None Make the icing while the cookies are in the oven .
Combine the confectioners ’ sugar , lemon juice , and lemon zest in a bowl and stir well until smooth and silky .
• None Cool the cookies slightly on a wire rack .
Drizzle each one to taste with a lemon icing .

Dear Reader: These are extraordinary times we’re living in, and while we always have a view toward health and wellness, sometimes the concept of self-care and wellness becomes a little different. As our needs shift, self-care might look like an over-the-top blanket fort in the living room… or decadent treats that aren’t normally a part of your diet. We believe that sometimes it’s OK to forego the usual self-care routine. That’s why the Pandemic Pantry series includes some “yummy but maybe not for every day” recipes for you to try. Enjoy!
When I think of the word “cookie”, chocolate chip always springs to mind. Of course, there are a thousand and one different kinds of cookies with nary a chocolate chip in the recipe, but for whatever reason, the stock photo in my head of a cookie is the old familiar brown on brown chocolate chip cookie.
So when I saw the recipe photo for these beautiful lemon cream cheese cookies, I did a double-take. They’re so… light, and bright! They look just like sunshine on a plate, and thanks to their tangy citrus icing they taste exactly like you would expect summertime to taste.
They are pretty enough for a baby shower or afternoon tea, but easy and approachable enough for a backyard BBQ with neighbors. The cream cheese gives these a light, cakey texture that you’ll really love. In fact, it may even get you brainstorming other ways to add more cream cheese into your life.
Ingredients For Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies:
For the cookies:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 stick salted butter, softened
4 ounces cream cheese, room temperature
1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
1 large egg
1 tablespoon lemon zest
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon lemon extract
For the Icing:
1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 to 3 teaspoons lemon zest
Instructions For Lemon Cream Cheese Cookies:


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-10--Roasted Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini, Squash and Tomatoes

Ahhhh , roasted veggies… there is something about that warm , nutty flavor that is just so pleasing when paired with a wide variety of dishes .
Burgers , fish , chicken , and steak too , all are made better with the addition of savory roasted vegetables .
Here we bring you zucchini , squash , and tomatoes roasted with garlic , parmesan cheese , and herbs .
It ’ s so easy and flavorful , you ’ ll want to have roasted vegetables all the time .
And with literally hundreds of flavor combinations , there ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ This dish is simple and beautiful with its vibrant summertime color palette .
The red of the tomatoes pop against the crisp green zucchini and bright yellow squash , creating a mouth-watering and pretty dish you ’ ll be proud to share with family or a neighborhood barbecue .
Summer is a time of abundance , and this is one way to celebrate it .
With a big sheet pan full of nutrition packed goodies straight from Mother Earth to your belly .
The cheese and garlic definitely doesn ’ t hurt either @ @ @ @ @ @ @ bringing out the richness and character of whatever you ’ re cooking up .
If you have veggie haters in your family , you ’ ll definitely want to give this method a try .
You may even find that the veggie nemesis of children everywhere , Brussels sprouts , become nutty and flavorful with roasting .
Here is what you ’ ll need to make this wonderfully cheesy roasted vegetable medley .
• None Preheat the oven to 400 degrees .
Prepare an 18×13 rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum @ @ @ @ @ @ @ oil , garlic and Italian seasoning in a small bowl .
Let sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to come together .
In a large mixing bowl , add the zucchini , squash and tomatoes .
Pour the olive oil mixture over everything and gently toss to coat evenly .
• None Spread the veggies in an even layer on the baking sheet .
Season to taste with salt and pepper .
Sprinkle parmesan generously over the top .
Roast until everything is tender and the cheese is golden brown , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with parsley and serve warm .
For a little variation , try adding some of these yummy extras .
And you aren ’ t limited to just these , of course !
Get creative with your own favorite flavors , or whatever you ’ ve got in the fridge : • None Romano cheese , or any other hard , salty cheese that you love that grates well • None Add some spice with red pepper flakes , paprika , chili powder or oil , and cumin • None Try some thinly sliced @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fragrance and spice Roasted zucchini , squash , and tomatoes is certainly a hit with the masses , but there are plenty of other veggies that deserve some time in the spotlight too .
As seasons and availability changes , try these other options :

Ahhhh, roasted veggies… there is something about that warm, nutty flavor that is just so pleasing when paired with a wide variety of dishes. Burgers, fish, chicken, and steak too, all are made better with the addition of savory roasted vegetables. Here we bring you zucchini, squash, and tomatoes roasted with garlic, parmesan cheese, and herbs. It’s so easy and flavorful, you’ll want to have roasted vegetables all the time. And with literally hundreds of flavor combinations, there’s no reason you couldn’t!
Roasted Zucchini, Squash & Tomatoes
This dish is simple and beautiful with its vibrant summertime color palette. The red of the tomatoes pop against the crisp green zucchini and bright yellow squash, creating a mouth-watering and pretty dish you’ll be proud to share with family or a neighborhood barbecue.
Summer is a time of abundance, and this is one way to celebrate it. With a big sheet pan full of nutrition packed goodies straight from Mother Earth to your belly. The cheese and garlic definitely doesn’t hurt either.
Roasting has a special way of bringing out the richness and character of whatever you’re cooking up. If you have veggie haters in your family, you’ll definitely want to give this method a try. You may even find that the veggie nemesis of children everywhere, Brussels sprouts, become nutty and flavorful with roasting.
Here is what you’ll need to make this wonderfully cheesy roasted vegetable medley.
Ingredients:
Zucchini
Squash
Tomatoes
Parmesan cheese
Garlic
Italian seasoning
Dried parsley
Salt and pepper
Roasted Garlic-Parmesan Zucchini, Squash and Tomatoes
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Prepare an 18×13 rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Whisk together olive oil, garlic and Italian seasoning in a small bowl. Let sit for 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to come together. In a large mixing bowl, add the zucchini, squash and tomatoes. Pour the olive oil mixture over everything and gently toss to coat evenly. Spread the veggies in an even layer on the baking sheet. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Sprinkle parmesan generously over the top. Roast until everything is tender and the cheese is golden brown, about 25 – 30 minutes. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.
But Wait, There’s More!
For a little variation, try adding some of these yummy extras. And you aren’t limited to just these, of course! Get creative with your own favorite flavors, or whatever you’ve got in the fridge:
Romano cheese, or any other hard, salty cheese that you love that grates well
Homemade breadcrumbs from leftover bread
Fragrant herbs like oregano, basil, parsley, and thyme
Add some spice with red pepper flakes, paprika, chili powder or oil, and cumin
Try some thinly sliced red onion for a solid hit of fragrance and spice
Equal Opportunity Roasted Veggies
Roasted zucchini, squash, and tomatoes is certainly a hit with the masses, but there are plenty of other veggies that deserve some time in the spotlight too. As seasons and availability changes, try these other options:


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-11--Spellbinding Image Captures Rare Comet, Northern Lights, Milky Way, And Bioluminescence In B.C.

I took a photography course when I was in college .
That was before digital cameras were around .
Setting your camera to get the right light and effects was somewhat more complicated .
Night photography was even harder .
When I graduated , I headed north to Lake Superior to camp .
In the evenings I was overwhelmed by the night skies .
Because the sunsets are much later up north , you have to stay awake long enough to get in some stargazing .
To get a good night shot you had to allow the little bit of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ which always proved a challenge .
But with a little luck you could sometimes get in a few good images .
We also got a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis , a heart-stopping flow of otherworldly colors swirling overhead .
However , the recent images captured by astrophotographer Liron Gertsman put my measly pictures to shame .
He witnessed a rare occurrence forever frozen in time with his images of the comet Neowise .
( 1 ) Named after NASA ’ s Neowise infrared space telescope , the comet first made an appearance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this point it was closest to the sun , causing it to flare as the sun ’ s heat burned gas and dust on the comet ’ s surface .
( 1 ) “ This very close passage by the Sun is cooking the comet ’ s outermost layers , causing gas and dust to erupt off the icy surface and creating a large tail of debris , ” explains NASA .
“ And yet the comet has managed to survive this intense roasting.
” ( 1 ) Gertsman , a 19-year-old astrophotographer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ something like this .
The last time a comet like Neowise was in this neck of the woods was in 1997 before his arrival on our little blue planet .
He missed seeing Hape-Bopp ’ s appearance in the northern hemisphere .
( 1 ) “ I ’ ve spent all recent nights with clear skies observing and photographing this impressive spectacle , ” says Gertsman .
“ On the night of July 13 , while photographing at Harrison Lake ( a short distance from Vancouver ) , I was treated to what @ @ @ @ @ @ @ event ; the Aurora Borealis ( Northern Lights ) showed up , “ photobombing ” my comet shot.
” ( 1 ) According to Gertsman , he could only see the comet for about 30 minutes .
“ The colors were hard to see , but the pillars were clearly visible dancing across the northern sky , ” he says .
( 1 ) He also captured images of the comet the night before when it appeared over English Bay .
Gertsman points out that stargazers need to look at the skies when @ @ @ @ @ @ @ best views of the northern horizon .
He had a killer view from a spot away from Vancouver with fewer bright lights to interfere with his view .
( 1 ) “ If you have clear skies , it ’ s hard to miss the comet even from heavily light-polluted cities , ” says Gertsman .
“ As always , I hope my images will inspire people to get out and experience stunning natural phenomenon such as this.
” ( 1 ) Although these rare occurrences are briefly visible with the naked eye @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
( 1 )

I took a photography course when I was in college. That was before digital cameras were around. Setting your camera to get the right light and effects was somewhat more complicated. Night photography was even harder. When I graduated, I headed north to Lake Superior to camp. In the evenings I was overwhelmed by the night skies. Because the sunsets are much later up north, you have to stay awake long enough to get in some stargazing. To get a good night shot you had to allow the little bit of starlight to hit the film longer, which always proved a challenge. But with a little luck you could sometimes get in a few good images. We also got a glimpse of the Aurora Borealis, a heart-stopping flow of otherworldly colors swirling overhead. However, the recent images captured by astrophotographer Liron Gertsman put my measly pictures to shame. He witnessed a rare occurrence forever frozen in time with his images of the comet Neowise. (1)
Night Photography Of Neowose
Named after NASA’s Neowise infrared space telescope, the comet first made an appearance on July 3, 2020. At this point it was closest to the sun, causing it to flare as the sun’s heat burned gas and dust on the comet’s surface. (1)
“This very close passage by the Sun is cooking the comet’s outermost layers, causing gas and dust to erupt off the icy surface and creating a large tail of debris,” explains NASA. “And yet the comet has managed to survive this intense roasting.” (1)
What a night! With the potential for some aurora action & Neowise fading day by day, I decided to head up here last night … the comet, bioluminescence, the Milky Way and even a bit of aurora – just wow ❤ #Tofino #BC @TamithaSkov @HelloBC @tourism_tofino @StormHour pic.twitter.com/woCxumwwVj — David McColm (@davidlmccolm) July 25, 2020
Night Photography By 19-year Old
Gertsman, a 19-year-old astrophotographer had never had the chance to shoot something like this. The last time a comet like Neowise was in this neck of the woods was in 1997 before his arrival on our little blue planet. He missed seeing Hape-Bopp’s appearance in the northern hemisphere. (1)
Pure Luck With Night Photography
“I’ve spent all recent nights with clear skies observing and photographing this impressive spectacle,” says Gertsman. “On the night of July 13, while photographing at Harrison Lake (a short distance from Vancouver), I was treated to what might be a once in a lifetime event; the Aurora Borealis (Northern Lights) showed up, “photobombing” my comet shot.” (1)
Comet Neowise in & around Tofino, BC continues to impress … and change from night to night! Here’s to getting out as often as possible to enjoy (and shoot) this stunning & rare deep sky event! @tourism_tofino @HelloBC @StormHour #NEOWISE pic.twitter.com/lvb9g2z8zR — David McColm (@davidlmccolm) July 18, 2020
Ideal Set-up For Night Photography
According to Gertsman, he could only see the comet for about 30 minutes. “The colors were hard to see, but the pillars were clearly visible dancing across the northern sky,” he says. (1)
He also captured images of the comet the night before when it appeared over English Bay. Gertsman points out that stargazers need to look at the skies when it is very dark to get the best views of the northern horizon. He had a killer view from a spot away from Vancouver with fewer bright lights to interfere with his view. (1)
“If you have clear skies, it’s hard to miss the comet even from heavily light-polluted cities,” says Gertsman. “As always, I hope my images will inspire people to get out and experience stunning natural phenomenon such as this.” (1)
To be able to see & shoot the stunning comet Neowise over Tofino, BC the last couple of days has been an incredible bucket-list experience & then last night it even came with a wee bit of aurora #justwow @TamithaSkov @tourism_tofino @HelloBC @StormHour #cometNEOWISE pic.twitter.com/v5RobhNwKs — David McColm (@davidlmccolm) July 14, 2020
Although these rare occurrences are briefly visible with the naked eye, binoculars make it easier to spot. (1)


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-11--Spellbinding Image Captures Rare Comet, Northern Lights, Milky Way, And Bioluminescence In B.C. (Pho

Spellbinding Image Captures Rare Comet, Northern Lights, Milky Way, And Bioluminescence In B.C. (Photos)

It ’ s been a tough year for everyone .
So , it ’ s only natural we would turn to anything that could brighten our spirits .
In a sense , these photos out of British Columbia , Canada , are a perfect metaphor .
Being able to see such breathtaking natural phenomena in a year as dark as this one stands out the way the comet does against the sky !
David McColm went out into the night on July 24th , 2020 .
The comet that NASA has named NEOWISE was the closest to the earth that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ appeared below the Big Dipper constellation .
McColm , who is a landscape and nature photographer , wanted to capture the moment .
Luckily , he succeeded–with some absolutely gorgeous images .
“ What a night !
With the potential for some aurora action & Neowise fading day by day , I decided to head up here last night , ” he tweeted .
“ The comet , bioluminescence , the Milky Way , and even a bit of aurora – just wow.
” This was not the only night that David McColm @ @ @ @ @ @ @ as early as July 14th , he had been posting images of the comet onto his Twitter account .
Although his earlier images have some aurora , this is the only one with the Milky Way and bioluminescence present .
( 1 ) While McColm ’ s photo has been attracting attention for the number of incredible phenomena captured within it , there have been other stunning images as well .
19-year-old Liron Gertsman is a nature photographer , as well as a fan of astronomy .
Excitingly , when he was in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in Vancouver , British Columbia , he saw something rare .
While photographing , he “ was treated to what might be a once-in-a-lifetime event.
” Surprisingly , “ the Northern Lights showed up , ” he says , “ ‘ photobombing ’ my comet shot.
” There hasn ’ t been a comet as visible as Comet NEOWISE since 1997 , prior to Gertsman ’ s birth .
“ The colours [ of the Aurora Borealis ] were hard to see , ” he says of his photo .
“ But the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ northern sky.
” It isn ’ t his only viral comet photo , however .
He took a picture of the comet streaking over English Bay , in what he calls “ a very ‘ Vancouver ’ landscape image.
” ( 2 ) Photographer Nicole Howell says that “ it ’ s a very rare opportunity in a lifetime to be able to see something like this.
” She had her camera set up to take images over the course of a night , tracking the progress of the comet .
Her camera @ @ @ @ @ @ @ images per 18 seconds .
“ It ’ s amazing , ” she says , “ seeing something so clearly and differently than you can see with the naked eye.
” JJ Kavelaars is an astronomer in Canada ’ s National Research Council .
“ NEOWISE is about five kilometers across and is a giant snowball ” which has “ been orbiting around the sun for four billion years .
That is now evaporating away , ” he says .
NASA explains that a “ very close passage by the Sun is cooking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , “ the comet has managed to survive this intense roasting.
” ( 3 , 4 )

It’s been a tough year for everyone. So, it’s only natural we would turn to anything that could brighten our spirits.
In a sense, these photos out of British Columbia, Canada, are a perfect metaphor. Being able to see such breathtaking natural phenomena in a year as dark as this one stands out the way the comet does against the sky!
Comet NEOWISE
David McColm went out into the night on July 24th, 2020. The comet that NASA has named NEOWISE was the closest to the earth that it was going to get. It appeared below the Big Dipper constellation. McColm, who is a landscape and nature photographer, wanted to capture the moment. Luckily, he succeeded–with some absolutely gorgeous images. “What a night! With the potential for some aurora action & Neowise fading day by day, I decided to head up here last night,” he tweeted. “The comet, bioluminescence, the Milky Way, and even a bit of aurora – just wow.”
This was not the only night that David McColm went to photograph Comet NEOWISE. Since as early as July 14th, he had been posting images of the comet onto his Twitter account. Although his earlier images have some aurora, this is the only one with the Milky Way and bioluminescence present. (1)
Comet Neowise in & around Tofino, BC continues to impress … and change from night to night! Here’s to getting out as often as possible to enjoy (and shoot) this stunning & rare deep sky event! @tourism_tofino @HelloBC @StormHour #NEOWISE pic.twitter.com/lvb9g2z8zR — David McColm (@davidlmccolm) July 18, 2020
Other Comet Images
While McColm’s photo has been attracting attention for the number of incredible phenomena captured within it, there have been other stunning images as well. 19-year-old Liron Gertsman is a nature photographer, as well as a fan of astronomy. Excitingly, when he was in Fraser Valley’s Harrison Lake, in Vancouver, British Columbia, he saw something rare. While photographing, he “was treated to what might be a once-in-a-lifetime event.” Surprisingly, “the Northern Lights showed up,” he says, “‘photobombing’ my comet shot.”
There hasn’t been a comet as visible as Comet NEOWISE since 1997, prior to Gertsman’s birth. “The colours [of the Aurora Borealis] were hard to see,” he says of his photo. “But the pillars were clearly visible dancing across the northern sky.”
It isn’t his only viral comet photo, however. He took a picture of the comet streaking over English Bay, in what he calls “a very ‘Vancouver’ landscape image.” (2)
To be able to see & shoot the stunning comet Neowise over Tofino, BC the last couple of days has been an incredible bucket-list experience & then last night it even came with a wee bit of aurora #justwow @TamithaSkov @tourism_tofino @HelloBC @StormHour #cometNEOWISE pic.twitter.com/v5RobhNwKs — David McColm (@davidlmccolm) July 14, 2020
Responses To The Comet
Photographer Nicole Howell says that “it’s a very rare opportunity in a lifetime to be able to see something like this.” She had her camera set up to take images over the course of a night, tracking the progress of the comet. Her camera took photographs at a rate of 1,000 images per 18 seconds. “It’s amazing,” she says, “seeing something so clearly and differently than you can see with the naked eye.”
JJ Kavelaars is an astronomer in Canada’s National Research Council. “NEOWISE is about five kilometers across and is a giant snowball” which has “been orbiting around the sun for four billion years. That is now evaporating away,” he says.
NASA explains that a “very close passage by the Sun is cooking the comet’s outermost layers.” However, “the comet has managed to survive this intense roasting.” (3, 4)


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-11--This Small And Remote Scottish Island Is Looking For New Residents

Sometimes , we look at what ’ s going on in our country , wherever we ’ re from , and feel like , I have to move .
But emigrating is hard .
Wouldn ’ t it be nice if there was a place that would welcome you with open arms ?
There is .
It ’ s a Scottish island .
“ How would you like to live on Rum ?
” asks the Isle of Rum website ’ s March 7th , 2020 post .
It seems like a cute play on words .
But they ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ land owning Trust , who own most of Kinloch village , ” they write , “ is looking for dynamic individuals or families who are keen to fit into the island way of life and help drive positive change for this young and growing community.
” Scotland ’ s Rural and Island Housing Fund has contributed towards building four homes on the island .
These homes , which the website assures have affordable rent , have also been built to be eco-friendly .
The homes are located in Kinloch , the island ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 30 residents .
“ We need more families to fill our school , as well as to be the next generation of islanders , ” says Lesley Watt , who lives on the Scottish island .
( 1 , 2 ) If remote island living seems like it might be a challenge , that ’ s a fair reaction .
But don ’ t let fears of a lack of opportunity hold you back .
According to the site , “ the island has a wide range of job opportunities such as in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , fish farming or marine and mountain tourism.
” On the other hand , if none of those jobs are up your alley , the Isle of Rum will work with you .
“ If however , you have a trade , a skill or other business you could bring to the island to help diversify and grow the local economy , ” they say , “ then that would be seen as of great benefit.
” And , don ’ t worry about your kids .
“ Young families are always a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” the posts says , “ if you have young children they would find a wonderful island to play and learn in.
” ( 1 ) On March 16th , 2020 , the Island of Rum Community Trust put out a letter due to the amount of interest shown by prospective residents of the Scottish island .
Theoretically , the letter says , you could build your own home and move to the island -- but there will be restrictions .
The island ’ s board will “ consider applications from anyone @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) for shared equity house building plots .
You must , however , have a fully financed , business plan.
” The IRCT says they “ need entrepreneurs , people with the ability and drive to build their own home , set up new businesses , etc , too.
” However , they also know they “ have to be realistic and build on the experience of other Scottish community landowners.
” Their goal is to succeed “ in balancing attracting entrepreneurial energy and drive with maintaining some community control of a vital @ @ @ @ @

Sometimes, we look at what’s going on in our country, wherever we’re from, and feel like, I have to move. But emigrating is hard. Wouldn’t it be nice if there was a place that would welcome you with open arms?
There is. It’s a Scottish island.
The Scottish Island Of Rum
“How would you like to live on Rum?” asks the Isle of Rum website’s March 7th, 2020 post. It seems like a cute play on words. But they’re very serious. “The community land owning Trust, who own most of Kinloch village,” they write, “is looking for dynamic individuals or families who are keen to fit into the island way of life and help drive positive change for this young and growing community.” Scotland’s Rural and Island Housing Fund has contributed towards building four homes on the island. These homes, which the website assures have affordable rent, have also been built to be eco-friendly. The homes are located in Kinloch, the island’s only village which has only about 30 residents. “ We need more families to fill our school, as well as to be the next generation of islanders,” says Lesley Watt, who lives on the Scottish island. (1, 2)
The Island Opportunities
If remote island living seems like it might be a challenge, that’s a fair reaction. But don’t let fears of a lack of opportunity hold you back. According to the site, “the island has a wide range of job opportunities such as in childcare, food production, house maintenance, fish farming or marine and mountain tourism.”
On the other hand, if none of those jobs are up your alley, the Isle of Rum will work with you. “If however, you have a trade, a skill or other business you could bring to the island to help diversify and grow the local economy,” they say, “then that would be seen as of great benefit.”
And, don’t worry about your kids. “Young families are always a major contribution to isolated communities and so,” the posts says, “if you have young children they would find a wonderful island to play and learn in.” (1)
New Island Housing Applicant’s Letter
On March 16th, 2020, the Island of Rum Community Trust put out a letter due to the amount of interest shown by prospective residents of the Scottish island. Theoretically, the letter says, you could build your own home and move to the island--but there will be restrictions. The island’s board will “consider applications from anyone (including tenants for these new houses) for shared equity house building plots. You must, however, have a fully financed, business plan.” The IRCT says they “need entrepreneurs, people with the ability and drive to build their own home, set up new businesses, etc, too.” However, they also know they “have to be realistic and build on the experience of other Scottish community landowners.” Their goal is to succeed “in balancing attracting entrepreneurial energy and drive with maintaining some community control of a vital asset.” (3)


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-11--Propagating Succulents: How to Turn One Plant Into Hundred of Babies

Even for those without a green thumb , succulents are one of the easiest plants to care for and maintain .
Whether planted indoors in pots or nestled amongst rocks in a low-water garden , these adorably plump species are hardy and resilient .
Even better , you can save money by making more plant babies at home with a few simple techniques .
The great thing about succulents is their ability to reproduce from leaves and cuttings in a process is called propagation .
While some varieties can only be propagated from the stem , many others will sprout @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will take a bit of patience and care , using these techniques is an easy way to grow your succulent family .
( 1 ) For this method , you ’ ll simply want to take a fallen succulent leave or gently remove one from your plant .
It ’ s important to cut the leaf at the base with a clean knife to avoid transferring bacteria to your leaf .
You ’ ll want to let the leaves heal for a few days in a warm area with bright light–though not in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ callous ” to form over the wound where the leaf was cut .
Once this has formed , it ’ s time to propagate .
Place your leaves on top of a pot or tray full of succulent or cactus potting soil .
Keep them moist and warm , but again , not in direct sunlight as they may dry out .
Mist them with water when the soil is dry , just a few times per week , and wait for the magic to happen .
In a few weeks , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sprouts come up from the leaves .
Once the original leaf has dried out and died , the new succulents are ready to transplant .
( 2 ) After gently removing the dead leaf , place the new baby succulent into its very own pot .
As roots grow , they ’ ll need to be covered with soil to ensure they don ’ t dry out .
You ’ ll still want to mist them with water occasionally as they ’ re still establishing their roots .
( 1 ) Another method @ @ @ @ @ @ @ propagating from a cutting .
It ’ s best to make your cutting during its growth period , usually in the spring or winter months .
You ’ ll again want to use a clean , sharp blade so as not to damage the plant .
Choosing a short stem ensures active growth , and make sure to cut close to the parent plant .
After allowing a callous to form on your stem , you ’ ll want to replant it in a pot with plenty of light and not very much @ @ @ @ @ @ @ cut the rosette at the top of a stem , leaving just a short piece to replant .
The cutting on the parent plant will grow new leaves , as will the cut rosette .
Again , make sure to minimally water the plant for a few weeks until roots take hold .
( 2 ) While the growth of succulents can sometimes be slow , it ’ s amazing to watch their progress .
By following these easy steps , you ’ ll soon be expanding your collection of plant babies into @ @ @ @

Even for those without a green thumb, succulents are one of the easiest plants to care for and maintain. Whether planted indoors in pots or nestled amongst rocks in a low-water garden, these adorably plump species are hardy and resilient. Even better, you can save money by making more plant babies at home with a few simple techniques.
The great thing about succulents is their ability to reproduce from leaves and cuttings in a process is called propagation. While some varieties can only be propagated from the stem, many others will sprout new growth from leaves. Although it will take a bit of patience and care, using these techniques is an easy way to grow your succulent family. (1)
Growing Succulents From Leaves
For this method, you’ll simply want to take a fallen succulent leave or gently remove one from your plant. It’s important to cut the leaf at the base with a clean knife to avoid transferring bacteria to your leaf. You’ll want to let the leaves heal for a few days in a warm area with bright light–though not in direct sunlight. This will allow a “callous” to form over the wound where the leaf was cut. Once this has formed, it’s time to propagate.
Place your leaves on top of a pot or tray full of succulent or cactus potting soil. Keep them moist and warm, but again, not in direct sunlight as they may dry out. Mist them with water when the soil is dry, just a few times per week, and wait for the magic to happen. In a few weeks, you’ll start to see little sprouts come up from the leaves. Once the original leaf has dried out and died, the new succulents are ready to transplant. (2)
After gently removing the dead leaf, place the new baby succulent into its very own pot. As roots grow, they’ll need to be covered with soil to ensure they don’t dry out. You’ll still want to mist them with water occasionally as they’re still establishing their roots. (1)
Growing Succulents From Cuttings
Another method that works for more leggy succulents is propagating from a cutting. It’s best to make your cutting during its growth period, usually in the spring or winter months. You’ll again want to use a clean, sharp blade so as not to damage the plant. Choosing a short stem ensures active growth, and make sure to cut close to the parent plant.
After allowing a callous to form on your stem, you’ll want to replant it in a pot with plenty of light and not very much water. Alternatively, you can also cut the rosette at the top of a stem, leaving just a short piece to replant. The cutting on the parent plant will grow new leaves, as will the cut rosette. Again, make sure to minimally water the plant for a few weeks until roots take hold. (2)
While the growth of succulents can sometimes be slow, it’s amazing to watch their progress. By following these easy steps, you’ll soon be expanding your collection of plant babies into a whole brood.


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-12--Mexican State Bans Sale Of Sugary Drinks And Junk Food To Children

The Mexican state of Oaxaca has banned selling junk food and sugary drinks to children .
Lawmakers hope that the ban will curb the country ’ s obesity problem .
( 1 ) Oaxaca lawmakers passed a bill that will make it illegal to sell junk food or sugar-filled drinks to children .
The bill puts them in the same category as cigarettes and alcohol .
“ It ’ s important to finally put the brakes on this industry , which has already sickened our country and our children , ” said Magaly López Domínguez , the Oaxaca lawmaker who @ @ @ @ @ @ @ out that products from the drink industry are available in even the inaccessible parts of the state , “ where there ’ s often not even medicines , but there ’ s Coca-Cola , ” she told The Guardian .
( 1 ) In Mexico , 73 % of the population is overweight .
And diabetes and other related diseases are common .
Type 2 diabetes kills 70,000 Mexicans each year .
( 1 , 2 ) Mexicans drink more soda than any other country in the world with the average citizen drinking @ @ @ @ @ @ @ % more than the average in the United States .
( 1 , 2 ) The problem starts young .
In one region of Guerrero , 70 % of schoolchildren said they drank soda at breakfast .
Mexico has the highest rate of childhood obesity in the world ( 1 , 2 ) “ About 10 % of kids are being fed soda from zero to six months of age , ” Dr. Salvador Villalpando told the BBC .
Villalpando is a childhood obesity specialist at the Federico Gomez children ’ s hospital @ @ @ @ @ @ @ time they reach two , it ’ s about 80 % .
” ( 2 ) Some , like Alejandro Calvillo , the director of El Poder del Consumidor , connect Mexico ’ s soda issue to a lack of clean water .
“ When you go to these communities , what you find is junk food .
There ’ s no access to clean drinking water , ” Calvillo said in an interview with The Guardian .
( 1 ) But Villalpando believes that it ’ s a cultural issue .
“ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their homes as it shows they ’ re feeding them properly .
And they are so used to feeding them sodas , they don ’ t stop even when there is clean water.
” ( 2 ) Opinions aside , consuming large amounts of sugary drinks and junk food from a young age is having a real impact on Mexico ’ s children .
Junk food doesn ’ t provide children with the nutrients they need to develop physically and mentally .
And Villapando reports that many of the children he sees in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
( 2 ) In 2014 , Mexico established a 10 % tax on sugary drinks and an 8 % tax on high-calorie food .
Soda consumption dropped by 7.5 % .
But the COVID-19 pandemic encouraged lawmakers to take more drastic measures , especially because those most vulnerable to the virus have comorbidities like diabetes , obesity , and hypertension – all of which Mexico ’ s population struggles with .
( 1 , 2 ) “ This health emergency makes it even more evident the damage caused by the consumption of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said .
“ Its approval was timely.
” ( 1 ) Critics of the bill , such as representatives of Mexico ’ s drink industry , have accused López Domínguez of scapegoating soda and junk food for Mexico ’ s 40,000 COVID-19 deaths rather than taking a hard line on masks , testing , or contact tracing .
( 1 ) Whether or not junk food and soda are contributing to Mexico ’ s COVID-19 deaths , they ’ re certainly causing serious health issues for its citizens .
Curbing their consumption in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ longterm on Mexico ’ s health .
( 1 )

Oaxaca Bans Sale of Junk Food, Soda to Children
The Mexican state of Oaxaca has banned selling junk food and sugary drinks to children. Lawmakers hope that the ban will curb the country’s obesity problem. (1)
Oaxaca lawmakers passed a bill that will make it illegal to sell junk food or sugar-filled drinks to children. The bill puts them in the same category as cigarettes and alcohol.
“It’s important to finally put the brakes on this industry, which has already sickened our country and our children,” said Magaly López Domínguez, the Oaxaca lawmaker who introduced the bill. López Domínguez pointed out that products from the drink industry are available in even the inaccessible parts of the state, “where there’s often not even medicines, but there’s Coca-Cola,” she told The Guardian. (1)
Health Issues in Mexico
In Mexico, 73% of the population is overweight. And diabetes and other related diseases are common. Type 2 diabetes kills 70,000 Mexicans each year. (1, 2)
Mexicans drink more soda than any other country in the world with the average citizen drinking 163 liters annually. This is 40% more than the average in the United States. (1, 2)
The problem starts young. In one region of Guerrero, 70% of schoolchildren said they drank soda at breakfast. Mexico has the highest rate of childhood obesity in the world (1, 2)
“About 10% of kids are being fed soda from zero to six months of age,” Dr. Salvador Villalpando told the BBC. Villalpando is a childhood obesity specialist at the Federico Gomez children’s hospital in Mexico City. “By the time they reach two, it’s about 80%.” (2)
Some, like Alejandro Calvillo, the director of El Poder del Consumidor, connect Mexico’s soda issue to a lack of clean water. “When you go to these communities, what you find is junk food. There’s no access to clean drinking water,” Calvillo said in an interview with The Guardian. (1)
But Villalpando believes that it’s a cultural issue. “Mexican moms like having chubby kids in their homes as it shows they’re feeding them properly. And they are so used to feeding them sodas, they don’t stop even when there is clean water.” (2)
Opinions aside, consuming large amounts of sugary drinks and junk food from a young age is having a real impact on Mexico’s children. Junk food doesn’t provide children with the nutrients they need to develop physically and mentally. And Villapando reports that many of the children he sees in his clinic exhibit early signs of diabetes. (2)
Tax on Junk Food and Sugary Drinks
In 2014, Mexico established a 10% tax on sugary drinks and an 8% tax on high-calorie food. Soda consumption dropped by 7.5%. But the COVID-19 pandemic encouraged lawmakers to take more drastic measures, especially because those most vulnerable to the virus have comorbidities like diabetes, obesity, and hypertension – all of which Mexico’s population struggles with. (1, 2)
“This health emergency makes it even more evident the damage caused by the consumption of these sugary drinks,” López Domínguez said. “Its approval was timely.” (1)
Critics of the bill, such as representatives of Mexico’s drink industry, have accused López Domínguez of scapegoating soda and junk food for Mexico’s 40,000 COVID-19 deaths rather than taking a hard line on masks, testing, or contact tracing. (1)
Whether or not junk food and soda are contributing to Mexico’s COVID-19 deaths, they’re certainly causing serious health issues for its citizens. Curbing their consumption in childhood will hopefully have a positive impact longterm on Mexico’s health. (1)


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-12--Slovakian Doctor Takes 147 Diabetics Off Medication – With The NFI Protocol

Diabetics are faced with a grim regime of constant blood testing and medications .
However , a Slovakian doctor made local headlines in 2019 by prescribing a plant-based diet with great success .
( 1 ) Pravda , Slovakia ’ s biggest newspaper published news about the success seen by type 2 diabetes patients using a new advanced plant-based protocol .
According to the article , two leading diabetes experts introduced the Natural Food Interaction ( NFI ) protocol , as a successful intervention for treating type 2 Diabetes .
( 1 ) The NFI protocol provides a personalized whole-food @ @ @ @ @ @ @ David Hickman and biomedical scientist Zuzana Plevova .
By tailoring the diets based on a patient ’ s height , weight , age , sex , medication , and associated diagnoses the diet becomes highly effective .
( 1 ) The plan is nutritionally balanced , allowing blood glucose levels to normalize , while patients lose an average 3kg each week .
Diabetes researcher Professor Emil Martinka , Ph.D. , and physician Dr. Janka Lejavova , MD.
, describe the treatment as a ‘ natural and effective approach ’ to treating type 2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ NFI diet is based on plant food sources ( vegetables , fruits , nuts , pulses , mushrooms , etc . )
and at the same time temporarily excludes animal sources ( meat , milk , dairy products , eggs ) , ” says Prof. Martinka , the head of the National Institute of Diabetes and Endocrinology in Slovakia .
“ However , this is not a vegan diet .
A progressive specificity of NFI is the combination of plant food ingredients that are optimized for a particular patient.
” ( 1 ) @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , 147 patients following the protocol were off their medications in less than a year .
( 1 ) Diabetics Off Medication Must Be Compliant However , the most important aspect of the protocol is of course compliance according to Prof Martinka .
As with any diet , struggling to stick to the regime can make or break success .
Because the diet is so challenging , patients can easily get off track .
The fact it takes about 20 weeks to potentially be off medication for good , is an excellent incentive @ @ @ @ @ @ @ The NFI diet is absolutely safe , does not require any drugs or chemicals , does not induce any reactions in the body that could be risky in the diabetic or does not burden the body with excessive protein or fat intake with adverse effects on the kidneys or blood vessels , ” says Prof Martinka .
( 1 ) So how exactly does the NFI protocol work ?
“ NFI restores and corrects disrupted mechanisms , restores physiology , and achieves improvement at multiple levels of metabolic syndrome manifestations , ” explains @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lot of experience and very good results with the diet and I personally consider it a very suitable and welcome approach especially in the treatment of patients with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with advanced metabolic syndrome.
” ( 1 ) Hearing first-hand how the NFI protocol helps is perhaps the best way to measure success .
Brian Walsh had type 2 Diabetes and normalized his blood glucose levels in under eight weeks following the NFI protocol .
“ I did the NFI plan because like a lot of people , I was at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a change , and didn ’ t know where to turn , ” he says .
“ I ’ d wholly recommend it to anybody because this has made such a difference to my life , it ’ s hard to comprehend how quick the changes were.
” ( 1 )

Diabetics are faced with a grim regime of constant blood testing and medications. However, a Slovakian doctor made local headlines in 2019 by prescribing a plant-based diet with great success. (1)
“Pravda” Reports Diabetics Off Medication
Pravda, Slovakia’s biggest newspaper published news about the success seen by type 2 diabetes patients using a new advanced plant-based protocol. According to the article, two leading diabetes experts introduced the Natural Food Interaction (NFI) protocol, as a successful intervention for treating type 2 Diabetes. (1)
Diabetics Off Medication Using Tailored Diets
The NFI protocol provides a personalized whole-food plant-based diet plan, founded by businessman David Hickman and biomedical scientist Zuzana Plevova. By tailoring the diets based on a patient’s height, weight, age, sex, medication, and associated diagnoses the diet becomes highly effective. (1)
The plan is nutritionally balanced, allowing blood glucose levels to normalize, while patients lose an average 3kg each week. Diabetes researcher Professor Emil Martinka, Ph.D., and physician Dr. Janka Lejavova, MD., describe the treatment as a ‘natural and effective approach’ to treating type 2 Diabetes. (1)
147 Diabetics Off Medication
“The NFI diet is based on plant food sources (vegetables, fruits, nuts, pulses, mushrooms, etc.) and at the same time temporarily excludes animal sources (meat, milk, dairy products, eggs),” says Prof. Martinka, the head of the National Institute of Diabetes and Endocrinology in Slovakia. “However, this is not a vegan diet. A progressive specificity of NFI is the combination of plant food ingredients that are optimized for a particular patient.” (1)
Under the care of Dr. Janka Lejavova, 147 patients following the protocol were off their medications in less than a year. (1)
Diabetics Off Medication Must Be Compliant
However, the most important aspect of the protocol is of course compliance according to Prof Martinka. As with any diet, struggling to stick to the regime can make or break success. Because the diet is so challenging, patients can easily get off track. The fact it takes about 20 weeks to potentially be off medication for good, is an excellent incentive for compliance. (1)
Diabetics Off Medication Use Safe Diet
“The NFI diet is absolutely safe, does not require any drugs or chemicals, does not induce any reactions in the body that could be risky in the diabetic or does not burden the body with excessive protein or fat intake with adverse effects on the kidneys or blood vessels,” says Prof Martinka. (1)
So how exactly does the NFI protocol work? “NFI restores and corrects disrupted mechanisms, restores physiology, and achieves improvement at multiple levels of metabolic syndrome manifestations,” explains Professor Martinka. “We have a lot of experience and very good results with the diet and I personally consider it a very suitable and welcome approach especially in the treatment of patients with type 2 Diabetes Mellitus with advanced metabolic syndrome.” (1)
Diabetics Off Medication Praise NFI Protocol
Hearing first-hand how the NFI protocol helps is perhaps the best way to measure success. Brian Walsh had type 2 Diabetes and normalized his blood glucose levels in under eight weeks following the NFI protocol. “I did the NFI plan because like a lot of people, I was at the point where I needed to make a change, and didn’t know where to turn,” he says. “I’d wholly recommend it to anybody because this has made such a difference to my life, it’s hard to comprehend how quick the changes were.” (1)


healthyholisticliving--2020-08-12--Canada Will Let Terminally Ill Patients Use Psychedelic Mushrooms For End-Of-Life Care

Death is an inevitability for all of us–but we try not to think about it .
For a moment , though , let yourself dwell on that idea .
No matter what you do , your life is going to end .
Doesn ’ t feel good , does it ?
For those with terminal illness , that ’ s their reality .
The ever-looming reality that death is a certainty–and sooner than most of us have to worry about .
That ’ s why the Canadian government is taking unorthodox steps to help the terminally ill with their end-of-life-care @ @ @ @ @ @ @ TheraPsil put out a press announcement that Canada ’ s Minister of Health , Patty Hajdu , had granted permission for four Canadian patients with terminal illness to use psilocybin for their end-of-life care .
Psilocybin is a compound found in psychedelic mushrooms , more commonly known as “ magic mushrooms.
” But , who or what is TheraPsil , and why were they the first to announce this success ?
They are “ a non-profit coalition that advocates for legal , compassionate access to psilocybin therapy for palliative Canadians , ” according @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ supported patients with their applications to seek ministerial approval and has been advocating for compassionate access since 2019.
” The four patients are the first to legally use psilocybin since the compound became illegal in 1974 .
The Minister of Health granted them exemption through section 56 ( 1 ) of the Canadian Drugs and Substances Act .
( 1 ) Magic Mushrooms At The End Of Your Life Thomas Hartle feels stressed .
No one could blame him .
If suffering from cancer isn ’ t bad enough , he has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ : terminal .
As a result , his anxiety is crippling .
“ It gives you a rapid heart rate , ” he says .
“ It makes you feel terrible.
” He has tried more conventional ways to manage his anxiety .
He learned to meditate and started taking prescribed anti-anxiety medication .
However , it ’ s not having much of an effect .
He wants help to “ deal with problems and anxieties that I just don ’ t have another mechanism of dealing with , ” he explains .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ approved to start psilocybin treatments .
Another of the four is Laurie Brooks , who says , “ acknowledgment of the pain and anxiety that I have been suffering with means a lot to me , and .
.
.
[ hopefully ] soon all Canadians will be able to access psilocybin for therapeutic use.
” ( 1 , 2 ) The Journal of Psychopharmacology published an article , online January 9th , 2020 , about cancer patients given a single dose of psilocybin .
“ Reductions in anxiety , depression , hopelessness @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sustained at the first and second follow-ups , ” the researchers state in their conclusion .
“ At the second ( 4.5 year ) follow-up approximately 60–80 % of participants met criteria for clinically significant antidepressant or anxiolytic responses.
” The study ’ s participants “ overwhelmingly ( 71–100 % ) attributed positive life changes to the psilocybin-assisted therapy experience.
” Interestingly , participants called their dose of psilocybin one of “ the most personally meaningful and spiritually significant experiences of their lives.
” Hopefully , similar effects occur in these four Canadian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a wider range of end-of-life treatments .
( 3 )

Death is an inevitability for all of us–but we try not to think about it. For a moment, though, let yourself dwell on that idea. No matter what you do, your life is going to end.
Doesn’t feel good, does it? For those with terminal illness, that’s their reality. The ever-looming reality that death is a certainty–and sooner than most of us have to worry about.
Hardly a pleasant feeling.
That’s why the Canadian government is taking unorthodox steps to help the terminally ill with their end-of-life-care.
TheraPsil And End-Of-Life Care
On August 4th, 2020, TheraPsil put out a press announcement that Canada’s Minister of Health, Patty Hajdu, had granted permission for four Canadian patients with terminal illness to use psilocybin for their end-of-life care. Psilocybin is a compound found in psychedelic mushrooms, more commonly known as “magic mushrooms.” But, who or what is TheraPsil, and why were they the first to announce this success? They are “a non-profit coalition that advocates for legal, compassionate access to psilocybin therapy for palliative Canadians,” according to the press release. TheraPsil has “supported patients with their applications to seek ministerial approval and has been advocating for compassionate access since 2019.” The four patients are the first to legally use psilocybin since the compound became illegal in 1974. The Minister of Health granted them exemption through section 56(1) of the Canadian Drugs and Substances Act. (1)
Magic Mushrooms At The End Of Your Life
Thomas Hartle feels stressed. No one could blame him. If suffering from cancer isn’t bad enough, he has had to hear that worse of words: terminal. As a result, his anxiety is crippling. “It gives you a rapid heart rate,” he says. “It makes you feel terrible.” He has tried more conventional ways to manage his anxiety. He learned to meditate and started taking prescribed anti-anxiety medication.
However, it’s not having much of an effect. He wants help to “deal with problems and anxieties that I just don’t have another mechanism of dealing with,” he explains. He is one of the four patients approved to start psilocybin treatments. Another of the four is Laurie Brooks, who says, “acknowledgment of the pain and anxiety that I have been suffering with means a lot to me, and . . . [hopefully] soon all Canadians will be able to access psilocybin for therapeutic use.” (1, 2)
Psilocybin In Pharmacology
The Journal of Psychopharmacology published an article, online January 9th, 2020, about cancer patients given a single dose of psilocybin. “Reductions in anxiety, depression, hopelessness, demoralization, and death anxiety were sustained at the first and second follow-ups,” the researchers state in their conclusion. “At the second (4.5 year) follow-up approximately 60–80% of participants met criteria for clinically significant antidepressant or anxiolytic responses.”
The study’s participants “overwhelmingly (71–100%) attributed positive life changes to the psilocybin-assisted therapy experience.”
Interestingly, participants called their dose of psilocybin one of “the most personally meaningful and spiritually significant experiences of their lives.”
Hopefully, similar effects occur in these four Canadian patients, perhaps opening the door for a wider range of end-of-life treatments. (3)