healthyholisticliving--2020-12-21--To Save the Planet Expert Suggests “The Best Thing You Can Do is Stop Buying More Stuff”

Over the course of our lifetime we accumulate many belongings .
Trinkets , ornaments , clothing , work tools , electrical goods and even unwanted gifts are sometimes stored away to gather dust in the bottom drawer , attic or garage .
By and large , people tend to be hoarders .
Our possessions gain sentimental value or we think they ’ ll come in handy at a later date .
Every so often we clear it out by discarding unused items , having a yard sale or donating to a thrift store .
As we get older we may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ‘ junk closet ’ for once-cherished bits and pieces .
We pack them off and try to minimalize our lives , only to start accumulating once more .
Should we be gathering all these possessions in the first place ?
According to Adam Minter , author of Secondhand , “ The best thing you can do is not buy more stuff ” .
( 1 ) After his mother passed away in 2005 , Minter recalls two periods of grief .
The enormous sadness of her death , coupled with the challenge of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ her life.
” Minter and his sister sifted through their mother ’ s possessions for a year until all that was left was her beloved china .
Neither wanted it but couldn ’ t bear to throw it out .
Instead they made the decision to donate .
While waiting in line at Goodwill , Minter wondered what would become of the china .
“ It occurred to me this is a very interesting subject ” , he said .
“ Nobody really knew what happened beyond the donation door at Goodwill.
” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the secondhand market , both in the U.S and in Africa and Asia .
Thrift stores are a booming industry .
In the U.S alone they share a market size of $ 10billion annually , trending towards a projected upward climb over the next five years .
With an estimated 25,000 stores throughout the U.S , employing approximately 122,300 personnel it ’ s big business .
( 2 ) There is no longer a stigma attached where only the least well-off or poorest in society buy second-hand goods .
Thrift stores offer everything @ @ @ @ @ @ @ many at bargain basement prices .
Minter visited Goodwill donation centers throughout the U.S and observed their sorting process : what goods are accepted , how they are priced to which ones are destined for the trash , or even sent to recycling centers .
He said , “ Your average thrift store in the United States only sells about one-third of the stuff that ends up on the shelves , the rest of the stuff ends up somewhere else.
” Where Unwanted Goods Go To Die Of the two-thirds of donations that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ store-front , most end up in landfill or the incinerator .
Eventually , everything goes this way once it becomes worn-out or obsolete .
With today ’ s obsession for mass-consumerism buying more stuff has its environmental issues as we constantly replace old , unwanted or outdated goods with the newest fashion accessory or latest technology .
We throw away more stuff than ever , thus increasing our carbon footprint .
All this on top of the fact many of our purchases are not made to last longer than just a few years @ @ @ @ @ @ @ really cared for like in days-gone-by .
We just go out and buy new .
So perhaps Adam Minter is correct .
The best thing we can do is not buy more stuff .

Over the course of our lifetime we accumulate many belongings. Trinkets, ornaments, clothing, work tools, electrical goods and even unwanted gifts are sometimes stored away to gather dust in the bottom drawer, attic or garage. By and large, people tend to be hoarders. Our possessions gain sentimental value or we think they’ll come in handy at a later date.
Every so often we clear it out by discarding unused items, having a yard sale or donating to a thrift store. As we get older we may wish to downsize by rummaging through the ‘junk closet’ for once-cherished bits and pieces. We pack them off and try to minimalize our lives, only to start accumulating once more.
Should we be gathering all these possessions in the first place? According to Adam Minter, author of Secondhand, “The best thing you can do is not buy more stuff”. (1)
Grief
After his mother passed away in 2005, Minter recalls two periods of grief. The enormous sadness of her death, coupled with the challenge of sorting through “the material legacy of her life.”
Minter and his sister sifted through their mother’s possessions for a year until all that was left was her beloved china. Neither wanted it but couldn’t bear to throw it out. Instead they made the decision to donate.
While waiting in line at Goodwill, Minter wondered what would become of the china. “It occurred to me this is a very interesting subject”, he said. “Nobody really knew what happened beyond the donation door at Goodwill.” As a result he began looking into the secondhand market, both in the U.S and in Africa and Asia.
Thrift Stores
Thrift stores are a booming industry. In the U.S alone they share a market size of $10billion annually, trending towards a projected upward climb over the next five years. With an estimated 25,000 stores throughout the U.S, employing approximately 122,300 personnel it’s big business. (2)
There is no longer a stigma attached where only the least well-off or poorest in society buy second-hand goods. Thrift stores offer everything from designer clothing to antique furniture, many at bargain basement prices.
Minter visited Goodwill donation centers throughout the U.S and observed their sorting process: what goods are accepted, how they are priced to which ones are destined for the trash, or even sent to recycling centers. He said, “Your average thrift store in the United States only sells about one-third of the stuff that ends up on the shelves, the rest of the stuff ends up somewhere else.”
Where Unwanted Goods Go To Die
Of the two-thirds of donations that don’t make it to the store-front, most end up in landfill or the incinerator. Eventually, everything goes this way once it becomes worn-out or obsolete. With today’s obsession for mass-consumerism buying more stuff has its environmental issues as we constantly replace old, unwanted or outdated goods with the newest fashion accessory or latest technology. We throw away more stuff than ever, thus increasing our carbon footprint. All this on top of the fact many of our purchases are not made to last longer than just a few years. Everything is replaceable so nothing is really cared for like in days-gone-by. We just go out and buy new.
So perhaps Adam Minter is correct. The best thing we can do is not buy more stuff.


healthyholisticliving--2020-12-21--First Animal To Domesticate Another Species Discovered

We humans have taken advantage of animals to assist with our labors from donkeys to camels and dogs to moths since before 3000 BC .
From riding animals such as asses and horses to using moths to create silk , humans have ruled over animals as laborers to suit our needs .
That doesn ’ t even include the domestication of animals for food or as pets !
So it might seem surprising to hear that animals do the same thing to other species of animals .
I guess one could consider the life of a parasite as a good @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about an animal actually domesticating another species to help provide a food source through farming .
Meet the farmer , longfin damselfish , and their domesticated friends , mysid shrimp .
( 1 , 2 ) Although we have seen animals using each other for food sources or even modes of travel , the idea of one animal domesticating another is new .
In fact , this recent discovery by researchers in Australia is the first of its kind .
Domestication between groups of animals .
( 2 ) Researchers from Griffith and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ shrimp to farm algae as a food source .
They made the discovery on an expedition to the coral reefs in Belize .
( 2 ) Longfin damselfish are actually thought of as “ farming fish ” .
They grow algae for food .
It is interesting to imagine any form of animal being so productive .
However , not only are they productive as farmers , they also have formed a mutually supportive relationship with mysid shrimp .
The shrimp provide fertilizer for the algae farms and are provided with a safe @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Researchers confirmed this to be the case in lab tests at Carrie Bow Cay Research Station .
The shrimp are not big fans of the smell of non-farming fish .
As a result they are drawn to the damselfish .
So not only do they assist in algae production , but also like to hang out around damselfish to avoid the smell of other fish .
( 1,2 ) This is considered a mutually beneficial arrangement as the damselfish protect the shrimp .
During the lab tests researchers put the mysid shrimp in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ outside the algae farm .
If fish tried to eat the shrimp placed inside the algae farm , the damselfish came to their rescue .
( 2 ) From the damselfish standpoint , the algae farmed by the mysid shrimp was of a higher quality .
Tests showed it provides more health benefit for the damselfish compared to algae farms without the mysid shrimp farmers on the job .
( 2 ) According to lead author of the study , William Feeney , the studies show it is indeed a mutualistic relationship .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the signs of domestication compared to animals used to assist in farming by humans .
( 3 ) Feeney says this is the first time researchers found proof there is non-human vertebrate domestication of another species .
This is also the first time experimental evidence showed how the domestication of mysid shrimps evolved .
( 3 )

We humans have taken advantage of animals to assist with our labors from donkeys to camels and dogs to moths since before 3000 BC. From riding animals such as asses and horses to using moths to create silk, humans have ruled over animals as laborers to suit our needs. That doesn’t even include the domestication of animals for food or as pets! So it might seem surprising to hear that animals do the same thing to other species of animals. I guess one could consider the life of a parasite as a good example. But I’m talking about an animal actually domesticating another species to help provide a food source through farming. Meet the farmer, longfin damselfish, and their domesticated friends, mysid shrimp. (1, 2)
Farmer Fish Domestication
Although we have seen animals using each other for food sources or even modes of travel, the idea of one animal domesticating another is new. In fact, this recent discovery by researchers in Australia is the first of its kind. Domestication between groups of animals. (2)
Researchers from Griffith and Deakin Universities discovered longfin damselfish use mysid shrimp to farm algae as a food source. They made the discovery on an expedition to the coral reefs in Belize. (2)
Farmer Fish And Shrimp
Longfin damselfish are actually thought of as “farming fish”. They grow algae for food. It is interesting to imagine any form of animal being so productive. However, not only are they productive as farmers, they also have formed a mutually supportive relationship with mysid shrimp. The shrimp provide fertilizer for the algae farms and are provided with a safe home in return. (2)
Lab Tests For Farmer Fish
Researchers confirmed this to be the case in lab tests at Carrie Bow Cay Research Station. The shrimp are not big fans of the smell of non-farming fish. As a result they are drawn to the damselfish. So not only do they assist in algae production, but also like to hang out around damselfish to avoid the smell of other fish. (1,2)
Farmer Fish Protect Shrimp
This is considered a mutually beneficial arrangement as the damselfish protect the shrimp. During the lab tests researchers put the mysid shrimp in clear bags which they placed inside or outside the algae farm. If fish tried to eat the shrimp placed inside the algae farm, the damselfish came to their rescue. (2)
Farmer Fish Quality Algae
From the damselfish standpoint, the algae farmed by the mysid shrimp was of a higher quality. Tests showed it provides more health benefit for the damselfish compared to algae farms without the mysid shrimp farmers on the job. (2)
According to lead author of the study, William Feeney, the studies show it is indeed a mutualistic relationship. He also says the shrimp have all the signs of domestication compared to animals used to assist in farming by humans. (3)
Farmer Fish First Case
Feeney says this is the first time researchers found proof there is non-human vertebrate domestication of another species. This is also the first time experimental evidence showed how the domestication of mysid shrimps evolved. (3)


healthyholisticliving--2020-12-21--Cozy Tiny House In The Backyard Brings Extra Income For This Woman

When you retire , your financial situation becomes instantly more precarious .
Few of us can hope to have a pension large enough to support our retirement needs .
Therefore , it ’ s always good to try to find a side hustle .
However , not everything works as well .
Luckily for one woman she ’ s found a profitable–and cute–solution .
Let ’ s say you wanted to retire off the funds from renting out tiny houses .
How would you even begin ?
Well , looking at this retiree ’ s strategy , maybe we can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you ’ re a retiree , you ’ re probably at least in your mid-fifties , if not older .
Unfortunately , while some of us can keep up with the marketing , social media presence , and other considerations of renting out tiny houses , some of us will be completely lost .
That ’ s where a supportive younger relative comes in .
In Atlanta , Georgia , the retiree in question has not one tiny house , but two .
They ’ re built in her backyard , but the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Brandi .
She says that she “ built these to support my elderly mom who lives in the main house.
” It sounds then like the retiree , unnamed in the article , might actually have little to do with managing the business , leaving her free to enjoy her retirement .
( 1 ) Sadly , even if you have the greatest product in the world , it won ’ t matter if nobody knows about it .
Luckily , in the internet age , marketing is easier than ever .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ backyard have their own website–Field Trip ATL .
( You might notice the contact email is under daughter Brandi ’ s name–chalk up another for the benefits of relatives ! )
The website not only has photo galleries of both houses , it has a list of places to eat , drink , and tour while you ’ re in the area .
Strategically , the website mentions how conveniently located these tiny houses are to the action .
Having other websites support you helps .
Travel website Narcity ran an article in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ second house ) .
Titled “ You Can Stay At This Adorable Atlanta Tiny Home For Less Than $ 25 Per Person A Night , ” it certainly makes this vacation destination seem affordable and worthwhile .
( 2 , 3 ) Field Trip ATL has a review section on their site , where you can read about past guests .
As savvy consumers , most of us know to check independent review sites before we book .
Still , reading happy reviews from satisfied consumers is likely to put us in a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you haven ’ t already booked this trip…you should do so ASAP .
I ’ m already planning another trip back , ” says one reviewer .
( 2 ) Renting out a tiny house does you no good if you don ’ t actually have a tiny house .
The houses of Field Trip Atlanta were designed by Tru Form Tiny , an Oregon-based company .
They build both tiny homes and travel trailers , and their travel trailers even have the opportunity to get instant quotes on some standard customizations .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ chat box .
“ I ’ m happy to help .
We love talking tiny houses , and hopefully can answer your questions.
” ( 4 )

When you retire, your financial situation becomes instantly more precarious. Few of us can hope to have a pension large enough to support our retirement needs. Therefore, it’s always good to try to find a side hustle. However, not everything works as well. Luckily for one woman she’s found a profitable–and cute–solution.
The Tiny House Rental Retirement Plan
Let’s say you wanted to retire off the funds from renting out tiny houses. How would you even begin? Well, looking at this retiree’s strategy, maybe we can pick up a few tricks.
The Relatives
If you’re a retiree, you’re probably at least in your mid-fifties, if not older. Unfortunately, while some of us can keep up with the marketing, social media presence, and other considerations of renting out tiny houses, some of us will be completely lost. That’s where a supportive younger relative comes in.
In Atlanta, Georgia, the retiree in question has not one tiny house, but two. They’re built in her backyard, but the management mostly falls to her daughter, Brandi. She says that she “built these to support my elderly mom who lives in the main house.” It sounds then like the retiree, unnamed in the article, might actually have little to do with managing the business, leaving her free to enjoy her retirement. (1)
The Marketing
Sadly, even if you have the greatest product in the world, it won’t matter if nobody knows about it. Luckily, in the internet age, marketing is easier than ever.
The tiny houses in our retiree’s backyard have their own website–Field Trip ATL. (You might notice the contact email is under daughter Brandi’s name–chalk up another for the benefits of relatives!) The website not only has photo galleries of both houses, it has a list of places to eat, drink, and tour while you’re in the area. Strategically, the website mentions how conveniently located these tiny houses are to the action.
Having other websites support you helps. Travel website Narcity ran an article in November 2019 (before completion of the second house). Titled “You Can Stay At This Adorable Atlanta Tiny Home For Less Than $25 Per Person A Night,” it certainly makes this vacation destination seem affordable and worthwhile. (2, 3)
The Reviews
Field Trip ATL has a review section on their site, where you can read about past guests. As savvy consumers, most of us know to check independent review sites before we book. Still, reading happy reviews from satisfied consumers is likely to put us in a positive frame of mind. “If you haven’t already booked this trip…you should do so ASAP. I’m already planning another trip back,” says one reviewer. (2)
The Tiny House Itself
Renting out a tiny house does you no good if you don’t actually have a tiny house. The houses of Field Trip Atlanta were designed by Tru Form Tiny, an Oregon-based company. They build both tiny homes and travel trailers, and their travel trailers even have the opportunity to get instant quotes on some standard customizations. “Have questions” asks their pop-out chat box. “I’m happy to help. We love talking tiny houses, and hopefully can answer your questions.” (4)


healthyholisticliving--2020-12-21--Meet the ‘psychobiome’: the gut bacteria that may alter how you think, feel, and act

The “ Psychobiome ” may sound like a futuristic science fiction film .
But in fact , it ’ s real , present-tense , and residing inside every one of our bodies .
( 1 , 2 ) Up to a thousand types of bacteria live in the human intestine , along with other microbes like viruses , fungi , and archaea .
These microbes and all of their genetic material are known as the gut microbiome .
( 2 , 3 ) The gut microbiome actually weighs more than the human brain and is able to influence it , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , metabolic , and immune signaling , as well as through the release of endocrine substances .
This connection between gut microbes and the mind has been dubbed the psychobiome .
( 1 , 2 ) There has long been an awareness of a correlation between the gut and brain .
For example , people with irritable bowel syndrome often have depression , patients with Parkinson ’ s tend to deal with constipation , and people with autism often have general digestive problems .
( 1 , 2 ) Now , growing evidence @ @ @ @ @ @ @ connection between gut bacteria and disorders usually associated with the brain , such as Parkinson ’ s , Alzheimer ’ s , autism , depression , and anxiety .
Researchers are working to learn about the psychobiome and use it to treat these conditions .
( 1 , 2 , 3 ) The link between gut bacteria and psychological disorders has led researchers to question if they can use certain microbes to treat them .
Many of the available studies on the psychobiome have been done on animals .
But in 2019 , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Catholic University of Leuven , and his team analyzed the health records of two groups of people that had participated in surveys of their gut bacteria .
( 2 , 4 ) The first group consisted of 1,054 people who had participated in the Flemish Gut Flora Project and also had a diagnosis of depression .
The researchers looked for groups of microorganisms that corresponded either positively or negatively with mental health .
They noticed that the subjects who had depression usually had low levels of two bacterial species , Coprococcus and Dialister @ @ @ @ @ @ @ type of antidepressant treatment they were taking .
( 4 ) Raes ’ research team validated the first group ’ s data by comparing it to two other groups .
One was an independent cohort of 1,063 individuals from the Dutch LifeLinesDEEP study .
The other was a group of patients with clinical depression at the University Hospitals Leuven , Belgium .
The subjects in both of the other groups also had deficits of those two types of bacteria .
( 4 ) In another study led by Raes , the research team @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a microbial community constellation , that was common in patients with Crohn ’ s disease .
The enterotype , Bacteroides2 , is characterized by low microbial count and biodiversity .
In their study on the connection between depression and gut bacteria , the researchers found a similar community type connected to depression and decreased quality of life .
( 4 ) Mireia Valles-Colomer , one of the authors of the study , said , “ Many neuroactive compounds are produced in the human gut .
We wanted to see which gut microbes could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ modifying these molecules.
” ( 4 ) Valles-Colomer continued , “ Our toolbox not only allows [ us ] to identify the different bacteria that could play a role in mental health conditions , but also the mechanisms potentially involved in this interaction with the host.
” ( 4 ) Neurological disorders like Parkinson ’ s , Alzheimer ’ s , and Multiple Sclerosis have been increasing globally .
But it is unclear what is leading to the rise in patients with these disorders , and researchers have been unable to find successful @ @ @ @ @ @ @ However , there is evidence that some of the microbes that reside in the gut and how they communicate with the central nervous system could have some responsibility for the development of these neurological disorders .
And it ’ s possible that gut microbes could play a role in treating them , too .
( 3 ) Some studies involving rodents have set out to explore the connection between the psychobiome and neurological disorders .
When mice and rats receive fecal transplants from people with Parkinson ’ s , schizophrenia , autism , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ rodent version of the same disorder .
( 2 ) But when the mice and rats are given fecal transplants from healthy humans , they sometimes relieve their symptoms .
Studies like these have led some researchers to believe that gut microbes could be used as a treatment for neurological disorders .
( 2 ) One way to encourage a healthy gut microbiome is to regularly take a probiotic .
Probiotics are known to support digestive health , but the right one can also provide immune system support and promote a healthy microbiome @ @ @ @ @ @ @ probiotic drink with eight clinically-studied strains of live lactic acid bacteria , prebiotic nutrients , and 19 supportive herbs .
Not only does it provide targeted digestive and immune health benefits , but it also offers advanced microbiome support .
ecoProbiotic is a fermented liquid formula , and because of this , it offers greater potency and bioactivity than other probiotics .
ecoProbiotic ’ s liquid form makes it more bioavailable and helps it to deliver faster digestive relief than capsule-based products .
Its invigorating , tart berry taste can be enjoyed straight @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Eight different clinically studied probiotic strains are included in ecoProbiotic : • None produces vitamin K and other nutrients that support a healthy microbiome .
It also supports metabolic balance and immune function .
• None converts a variety of carbohydrates to lactic acid for a healthy GI environment and supports the immune system through interaction with the gut mucosa .
• None produces beneficial amounts of lactic acid and bacterial metabolites that promote a healthy microbiome .
It also supports immunity and cardiovascular function .
Working along the probiotics are prebiotic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ healthy bacterial populations .
Rounding off this powerful probiotic formula are 19 supportive herbs that provide additional benefits for digestive wellness and healthy immune function .

The Psychobiome
The “Psychobiome” may sound like a futuristic science fiction film. But in fact, it’s real, present-tense, and residing inside every one of our bodies. (1, 2)
Up to a thousand types of bacteria live in the human intestine, along with other microbes like viruses, fungi, and archaea. These microbes and all of their genetic material are known as the gut microbiome. (2, 3)
The gut microbiome actually weighs more than the human brain and is able to influence it, too. It does so through endocrine, metabolic, and immune signaling, as well as through the release of endocrine substances. This connection between gut microbes and the mind has been dubbed the psychobiome. (1, 2)
There has long been an awareness of a correlation between the gut and brain. For example, people with irritable bowel syndrome often have depression, patients with Parkinson’s tend to deal with constipation, and people with autism often have general digestive problems. (1, 2)
Now, growing evidence from international studies is scientifically establishing the connection between gut bacteria and disorders usually associated with the brain, such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, autism, depression, and anxiety. Researchers are working to learn about the psychobiome and use it to treat these conditions. (1, 2, 3)
Mental Health and the Psychobiome
The link between gut bacteria and psychological disorders has led researchers to question if they can use certain microbes to treat them. Many of the available studies on the psychobiome have been done on animals. But in 2019, Jeroen Raes, a microbiologist at the Catholic University of Leuven, and his team analyzed the health records of two groups of people that had participated in surveys of their gut bacteria. (2, 4)
The first group consisted of 1,054 people who had participated in the Flemish Gut Flora Project and also had a diagnosis of depression. The researchers looked for groups of microorganisms that corresponded either positively or negatively with mental health. They noticed that the subjects who had depression usually had low levels of two bacterial species, Coprococcus and Dialister. This was true no matter what type of antidepressant treatment they were taking. (4)
Raes’ research team validated the first group’s data by comparing it to two other groups. One was an independent cohort of 1,063 individuals from the Dutch LifeLinesDEEP study. The other was a group of patients with clinical depression at the University Hospitals Leuven, Belgium. The subjects in both of the other groups also had deficits of those two types of bacteria. (4)
In another study led by Raes, the research team had found an enterotype, which is a microbial community constellation, that was common in patients with Crohn’s disease. The enterotype, Bacteroides2, is characterized by low microbial count and biodiversity. In their study on the connection between depression and gut bacteria, the researchers found a similar community type connected to depression and decreased quality of life. (4)
Mireia Valles-Colomer, one of the authors of the study, said, “Many neuroactive compounds are produced in the human gut. We wanted to see which gut microbes could participate in producing, degrading, or modifying these molecules.” (4)
Valles-Colomer continued, “Our toolbox not only allows [us] to identify the different bacteria that could play a role in mental health conditions, but also the mechanisms potentially involved in this interaction with the host.” (4)
Psychobiome and Neurological Disorders
Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, and Multiple Sclerosis have been increasing globally. But it is unclear what is leading to the rise in patients with these disorders, and researchers have been unable to find successful treatments for them. (3)
However, there is evidence that some of the microbes that reside in the gut and how they communicate with the central nervous system could have some responsibility for the development of these neurological disorders. And it’s possible that gut microbes could play a role in treating them, too. (3)
Some studies involving rodents have set out to explore the connection between the psychobiome and neurological disorders. When mice and rats receive fecal transplants from people with Parkinson’s, schizophrenia, autism, or depression, they often develop the rodent version of the same disorder. (2)
But when the mice and rats are given fecal transplants from healthy humans, they sometimes relieve their symptoms. Studies like these have led some researchers to believe that gut microbes could be used as a treatment for neurological disorders. (2)
Supporting The Psychobiome with Probiotics
One way to encourage a healthy gut microbiome is to regularly take a probiotic. Probiotics are known to support digestive health, but the right one can also provide immune system support and promote a healthy microbiome.
ecoProbiotic from ecoNugenics is an organic probiotic drink with eight clinically-studied strains of live lactic acid bacteria, prebiotic nutrients, and 19 supportive herbs. Not only does it provide targeted digestive and immune health benefits, but it also offers advanced microbiome support.
ecoProbiotic is a fermented liquid formula, and because of this, it offers greater potency and bioactivity than other probiotics. ecoProbiotic’s liquid form makes it more bioavailable and helps it to deliver faster digestive relief than capsule-based products. Its invigorating, tart berry taste can be enjoyed straight, or mixed with water or juice.
Eight different clinically studied probiotic strains are included in ecoProbiotic:
Bifidobacterium lactis ( B. lactis ) supports nutrient absorption, defends healthy bacterial populations, and promotes healthy intestinal function and digestion.
Bifidobacterium longum promotes a healthy gut environment, supports GI lining integrity, and supports healthy immune function and mood.
Lactobacillus acidophilus produces vitamin K and other nutrients that support a healthy microbiome. It also supports metabolic balance and immune function.
Lactobacillus casei supports GI lining integrity and promotes colon cellular health and metabolic balance.
Lactobacillus rhamnosus supports digestive health, respiratory health, and immunity.
Lactobacillus salivarius supports digestive health, oral hygiene, and immunity.
Lactococcus lactis converts a variety of carbohydrates to lactic acid for a healthy GI environment and supports the immune system through interaction with the gut mucosa.
Streptococcus thermophilus produces beneficial amounts of lactic acid and bacterial metabolites that promote a healthy microbiome. It also supports immunity and cardiovascular function.
Working along the probiotics are prebiotic nutrients from citrus pectin, which nourish healthy bacterial populations. Rounding off this powerful probiotic formula are 19 supportive herbs that provide additional benefits for digestive wellness and healthy immune function.
ecoProbiotic is a powerful formula that encourages a healthy gut microbiome.


healthyholisticliving--2020-12-24--Fresh From Her Journey Around The World, Bend Woman Tells Her Story

For six years she traveled around the world on foot .
A wanderlust that saw her walk 20,000 miles across four continents , 13 countries , and a few islands .
Angela Maxwell , a 39 year old woman from the small city of Bend , Oregon USA , saw the global journey as a personal challenge , and a way to raise money and awareness for a nonprofit organization that supports sheltering and educating victims of sex trafficking .
Hoping to raise $ 20,000 , Maxwell set off on her ‘ walking voyage ’ on May 2 , 2014 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a small bike trailer , and leaving her career as a business consultant and life coach behind .
She said , “ I had to let go of everything .
I just have a box of things at my friends house .
Other than that , I don ’ t have a home .
Literally , everything I own fits on the cart.
” ( 1 ) Maxwell has supported and championed women ’ s empowerment causes throughout her life .
She previously led an effort called ‘ Project SHE Thrives , ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ interview successful women on perseverance and how they made their dreams come true .
While walking , Maxwell would think how many women around the world have little or no freedoms or opportunities like those in the United States .
This inspired her to continue to raise as much as possible for the ‘ Her Future Coalition , ’ an organization that creates a positive change in the lives of women and girls suffering from gender violence , poverty and exploitation .
( 2 ) During her journey , Maxwell never used any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ two feet .
She wore out three pairs of boots each year , walking 20 miles a day , and always tried to carry enough food and water .
She mainly dined on basic provisions such as dried noodles , rice and beans – her goal to survive on a daily budget of just $ 5 .
For the woman who “ wanted to feel the world ” there were other challenges too .
Heatstroke in Australia , Dengue fever in Vietnam and being caught up in extreme types of weather would slow @ @ @ @ @ @ @ perseverance .
Tragedy would also strike on a spring night in Mongolia in what Maxwell would describe as “ the longest night of her life ” when a Mongolian nomad entered her tent and brutally assaulted her .
( 3 ) Her determination however , was resolute and her strength of will endured as she recalls some of the wonderful people and lifelong friends she made along the way .
A woman she met in Italy asked if she could be her child ’ s godmother .
And a sheep farmer from Sardinia @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to learn local farming techniques .
“ You just have that special connection that lasts a lifetime , ” she said .
( 1 ) As Angela Maxwell completed her astonishing around-the-world journey on December 20 , 2020 , she looked forward to meeting old friends .
She has plans to write a book about her trip , and hopes to pitch an idea for a TV show that centers on the diverse roles and jobs of women around the world , from ancient traditions to modern professions .
After these projects , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ lead .
“ I keep myself open , ” she said .
“ I ’ m ready for the next adventure.
” ( 1 )

For six years she traveled around the world on foot. A wanderlust that saw her walk 20,000 miles across four continents, 13 countries, and a few islands.
Angela Maxwell, a 39 year old woman from the small city of Bend, Oregon USA, saw the global journey as a personal challenge, and a way to raise money and awareness for a nonprofit organization that supports sheltering and educating victims of sex trafficking.
Hoping to raise $20,000, Maxwell set off on her ‘walking voyage’ on May 2, 2014, selling all her belongings, except a small bike trailer, and leaving her career as a business consultant and life coach behind. She said, “I had to let go of everything. I just have a box of things at my friends house. Other than that, I don’t have a home. Literally, everything I own fits on the cart.” (1)
Championing Women
Maxwell has supported and championed women’s empowerment causes throughout her life. She previously led an effort called ‘Project SHE Thrives,’ where she traveled to different cities to interview successful women on perseverance and how they made their dreams come true.
While walking, Maxwell would think how many women around the world have little or no freedoms or opportunities like those in the United States. This inspired her to continue to raise as much as possible for the ‘Her Future Coalition,’ an organization that creates a positive change in the lives of women and girls suffering from gender violence, poverty and exploitation. (2)
Turning Trials, Tribulations And Tragedy Into Triumph
During her journey, Maxwell never used any type of transportation other than her own two feet. She wore out three pairs of boots each year, walking 20 miles a day, and always tried to carry enough food and water. She mainly dined on basic provisions such as dried noodles, rice and beans – her goal to survive on a daily budget of just $5.
For the woman who “wanted to feel the world” there were other challenges too. Heatstroke in Australia, Dengue fever in Vietnam and being caught up in extreme types of weather would slow, but never halt or dampen her perseverance.
Tragedy would also strike on a spring night in Mongolia in what Maxwell would describe as “the longest night of her life” when a Mongolian nomad entered her tent and brutally assaulted her. (3)
Her determination however, was resolute and her strength of will endured as she recalls some of the wonderful people and lifelong friends she made along the way. A woman she met in Italy asked if she could be her child’s godmother. And a sheep farmer from Sardinia invited her to stay for a month to learn local farming techniques.
“You just have that special connection that lasts a lifetime,” she said. (1)
Journey’s End Or New Beginning?
As Angela Maxwell completed her astonishing around-the-world journey on December 20, 2020, she looked forward to meeting old friends.
She has plans to write a book about her trip, and hopes to pitch an idea for a TV show that centers on the diverse roles and jobs of women around the world, from ancient traditions to modern professions.
After these projects, she is unclear what direction life will lead.
“I keep myself open,” she said. “I’m ready for the next adventure.” (1)


healthyholisticliving--2020-12-24--Maternal Grandmothers Are So Important For A Child. Here’s Why.

In real life both the maternal and paternal grandmother holds a special place in the structure of most families .
Yet with clichés , old wive ’ s tales and folklore often suggesting the maternal grandmother should be top of the love chain when it comes to family hierarchy , should we listen , or brush this off ?
Should we ever serve this attitude as a vehicle for the formation of family and cultural meaning , or is it disrespectful to the other grandmother ?
Maternal grandparents are the mother ’ s parents .
Paternal comes from a French @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ” so the paternal grandparents of a child are their father ’ s parents .
( 1 ) All four of my grandparents are deceased , and as a Scottish lass living abroad , I often think about family , ancestry and roots .
There is a fun song from Scotland called ‘ Ye canny shove yer grannie aff a bus !
’ The lyrics jab at the cultural identity of family trees , suggesting that the grandmother from the mother ’ s side of the family is more important ; ‘ Cause @ @ @ @ @ @ @ mammie.
’ A further verse suggests ‘ Ye can shove yer other grannie aff a bus- cause she ’ s just yer daddie ’ s mammie ’ .
The purpose of the song is to raise sarcastic fun , of course !
But with studies now proving that there is a strong genetic bond between maternal grandmothers and their grandchildren , the unique role this lady brings to the family table may be more than once thought .
According to scientists , apart from their love and affection , there is something remarkable @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Genes are simple inherited units composed of DNA .
Grandparents share an average of 25 percent of their DNA with their grandchildren , with the exact amount depending on the DNA swap .
We inherit our genes from both our male and female grandparents , but it is maternal grandmothers who have the greatest degree of control on the offspring .
( 3 ) This is because there are different types of DNA chromosomes in our cells , are some in compartments called the nucleus in our cells .
Other mitochondria ( mtDNA @ @ @ @ @ @ @ almost like mainstays , for our cells .
The mitochondrion has its own DNA to do its work .
The catch is that from their mother , children get all of their mtDNA .
It ’ s not the normal split of 50/50 between mom and dad .
In reality , if we include mtDNA , a child always shares a little more from mom ’ s side .
To throw more into the mix , a doctoral student in the Department of Biological Anthropology of Cambridge has found out that grandmothers ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not inherited equally between their grandchildren , which may explain why some do better with each grandmother than others .
( 4 ) Discoveries and theories support the idea that grandmothers have played an important role in human evolution .
The reason human females live far past menopause is generally assumed to be so that grandmothers can spend their resources in raising the offspring of their children , rather than risking their own further pregnancies .
Maternal grandparents tend to be closer to grandchildren than the paternal sometimes because despite advances in gender @ @ @ @ @ @ @ guide the activities of their children .
Communication with their own parents may be of increased importance to them .
Geographical closeness is important , a grandparent ’ s employment status , health , economic status , and their personality can also be influential factors .
A cute survey , also from the UK showed the main reasons for kids preferring either grandma were that she spoils them ( 79 percent ) , they always get their own way with her ( 50 percent ) , and she ’ s a better cook @ @ @ @ @ @ @ grandmothers : there are shortcuts to ranking favorite !
( 5 , 6 ) The “ grandmother hypothesis ” indicates that all grandchildren benefit from their early childhood involving any of their grandmothers .
Studies therefore appear to have failed to support the theory with clear or consistent evidence , that either grandmother should be the favorite , despite DNA being closer .
( 4 ) Nowadays with high divorce rates , multigenerational living and even second marriages , anything goes when it comes to family .
Nurturing a meaningful relationship with any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ They inspire and precipitate our accomplishments .
Our lives are encouraged by them , and so is our emotional and spiritual development .
Perhaps we should all simply feel blessed -whilst any of our grandparents are still around .

In real life both the maternal and paternal grandmother holds a special place in the structure of most families. Yet with clichés, old wive’s tales and folklore often suggesting the maternal grandmother should be top of the love chain when it comes to family hierarchy, should we listen, or brush this off ? Should we ever serve this attitude as a vehicle for the formation of family and cultural meaning, or is it disrespectful to the other grandmother?
Maternal grandparents are the mother’s parents. Paternal comes from a French word meaning “of the father,” so the paternal grandparents of a child are their father’s parents. (1)
All four of my grandparents are deceased, and as a Scottish lass living abroad, I often think about family, ancestry and roots. There is a fun song from Scotland called ‘Ye canny shove yer grannie aff a bus!’
The lyrics jab at the cultural identity of family trees, suggesting that the grandmother from the mother’s side of the family is more important; ‘Cause she’s yer mammie’s mammie.’
A further verse suggests ‘Ye can shove yer other grannie aff a bus- cause she’s just yer daddie’s mammie’.
The purpose of the song is to raise sarcastic fun, of course! But with studies now proving that there is a strong genetic bond between maternal grandmothers and their grandchildren, the unique role this lady brings to the family table may be more than once thought.
Maternal Grandmother DNA Mystery
According to scientists, apart from their love and affection, there is something remarkable we get from our maternal grandmothers.
Genes are simple inherited units composed of DNA. Grandparents share an average of 25 percent of their DNA with their grandchildren, with the exact amount depending on the DNA swap. We inherit our genes from both our male and female grandparents, but it is maternal grandmothers who have the greatest degree of control on the offspring. (3)
This is because there are different types of DNA chromosomes in our cells, are some in compartments called the nucleus in our cells. Other mitochondria (mtDNA) in other areas make energy, almost like mainstays, for our cells. The mitochondrion has its own DNA to do its work.
The catch is that from their mother, children get all of their mtDNA. It’s not the normal split of 50/50 between mom and dad. In reality, if we include mtDNA, a child always shares a little more from mom’s side.
To throw more into the mix, a doctoral student in the Department of Biological Anthropology of Cambridge has found out that grandmothers’ female “X” sex chromosome is not inherited equally between their grandchildren, which may explain why some do better with each grandmother than others. (4)
The Rank Of Maternal Grandmothers
Discoveries and theories support the idea that grandmothers have played an important role in human evolution. The reason human females live far past menopause is generally assumed to be so that grandmothers can spend their resources in raising the offspring of their children, rather than risking their own further pregnancies.
Maternal grandparents tend to be closer to grandchildren than the paternal sometimes because despite advances in gender equality, mothers are still likely to guide the activities of their children. Communication with their own parents may be of increased importance to them.
Geographical closeness is important, a grandparent’s employment status, health, economic status, and their personality can also be influential factors. A cute survey, also from the UK showed the main reasons for kids preferring either grandma were that she spoils them (79 percent), they always get their own way with her (50 percent), and she’s a better cook (20 percent).
Note to grandmothers: there are shortcuts to ranking favorite! (5, 6)
The Grandmother Hypothesis
The “grandmother hypothesis” indicates that all grandchildren benefit from their early childhood involving any of their grandmothers. Studies therefore appear to have failed to support the theory with clear or consistent evidence, that either grandmother should be the favorite, despite DNA being closer. (4)
Nowadays with high divorce rates, multigenerational living and even second marriages, anything goes when it comes to family.
Nurturing a meaningful relationship with any grandparent is always a great privilege. They inspire and precipitate our accomplishments. Our lives are encouraged by them, and so is our emotional and spiritual development.
Perhaps we should all simply feel blessed -whilst any of our grandparents are still around.


healthyholisticliving--2020-12-28--Behavioral Disorders in Children tied to Gut Bacteria, Study Shows

Young children are not afraid to express how they feel .
They enjoy life , playing , and exploring .
They love to be happy and to be loved .
This is what we all want to see from our kids , and what we want for them .
Although we may want this , and relish it when it happens , children can also be disrespectful , disobedient , or have explosive tantrums .
Behavioral meltdowns can be due to a combination of many factors in reaction to everyday environments and circumstances .
Searching for recognition , pushing limits @ @ @ @ @ @ @ power and control can all contribute to destructive actions .
There may also be depression or unhealed trauma , pure boredom , and negative peer factors .
Recent research out of the University of Oregon and Oregon State University has concluded behavioral disorders in children could be tied to children ’ s gut health .
( 1 ) Research worldwide is conducted every year to analyze the behavior of children .
This recent report comes courtesy of a published 2020 study from mBio , journal of the American Society for Microbiology .
( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ development ( between the ages of 5 and 7 ) was the focus of the study , and the goal was to understand the links between gut health and behavioral development .
Much of our understanding of children ’ s gut microbiome comes from studies of the earliest years ; the majority of reports focusing on perinatal and postnatal .
Not only that , but most of the data is from animal models , not humans .
This study set out to look at 40 kids in the Pacific Northwest .
The parents @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , self-reporting on home dynamics , and collecting stool samples .
Scientific reasoning pointed towards tummy happiness and children ’ s overall demeanor being tied .
As anticipated , the published results confirmed this gut instinct .
Perhaps more unexpectedly , no obvious link to diet and children ’ s gut health was found .
( 1,5 ) Parents were instructed to obtain a small stool sample from their child .
Samples had to be 2-4 weeks following any antibiotic use or illness , with no stool irregularities .
No anticipated stressors were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be during a week with a typical diet .
To ensure the children understood , a visual representation of the study ( coloring book ) was used , and during home visits parents filled out questionnaires .
Parents were asked to fill out a diary of food categories eaten at breakfast , lunch and dinner in the week prior to collections .
The categories of food included : grains , vegetables , fruit , meat , other protein types , dairy , yogurt ( other than dairy ) , beans/nuts/seeds , sugars/fats/oils .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( based on an income-need ratio ) , any stressors or chaos in the home , family disease , crime in the community and any division of families .
An overall total ranking was tallied .
Self-recordings from parents on the children ’ s temperament characteristics included the positives : Negative behaviors they were asked to record were : They discovered kids with behavioral issues had different microorganisms in their guts than those who did not .
Not only were there significant associations between household socioeconomic status and gut health , but the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ stress had statistically moderated the results .
The next step for the researchers is to expand the study to more children and then track those children for several years to see if changes in their intestinal bacteria are connected to changes in behavior over a period of time .
The hope is to find ways to alter micro-organisms in the G.I .
tracts of children using what ’ s already inside their young bodies naturally , not by using any drugs .
( 1 ) How To Help Children ’ s Gut Health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , vegetables , whole grains , nuts , and legumes is often a sensible idea , ensuring that the developing gut microbiome has lots of nourishment .
( 2,3 ) Eating good bacteria or consuming live and active cultures such as those found in yogurts , kefir , kombucha , sauerkraut , pickles , miso , tempeh , kimchi , etc.
, is also extremely beneficial .
( 4 ) Unfortunately , some foods can be particularly challenging .
Not only can children be picky eaters , but certain flavors and textures may @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clever idea is getting kids more involved in the planning , preparation , and presentation of meals .
Letting them be mini chefs goes a long way in teaching them that they are what they eat .
On other days , for a nutritious meal to please all tummies , the final food order may have to include some imaginative disguising or hiding of certain foodstuffs .
If this is too much hassle , or if family life gets in the way , specific probiotic formulas with prebiotic nutrients can be an easier @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in family gut health .
ecoProbiotic contains 8 different cultures of living lactic acid bacteria , organic acids , and herbal extracts .
It ’ s a natural , certified organic probiotic formula , containing no preservatives , sugar , or dairy .
It provides advanced microbiome support , with digestive and immune health benefits , all in a family-friendly liquid form .
With children , it is prudent to keep an eye on ‘ unusual ’ behavior , especially if any are new occurrences , occur regularly , or if children exhibit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ into a behavioral disorder .
When we see a child acting up destructively , it ’ s hard not to be judgmental ; Simultaneously it can be easy to sympathize .
Our stance , as adults , depends on how we are feeling and therefore acting on any given day .
As has been illustrated , conditions and stressors seem to have intrinsic , connective links in family gut health .
It may be the right time to find intestinal heaven for all ages , for a happy and healthy family unit .

Young children are not afraid to express how they feel. They enjoy life, playing, and exploring. They love to be happy and to be loved. This is what we all want to see from our kids, and what we want for them.
Although we may want this, and relish it when it happens, children can also be disrespectful, disobedient, or have explosive tantrums.
Behavioral meltdowns can be due to a combination of many factors in reaction to everyday environments and circumstances. Searching for recognition, pushing limits, levels of fatigue, or even power and control can all contribute to destructive actions. There may also be depression or unhealed trauma, pure boredom, and negative peer factors.
Recent research out of the University of Oregon and Oregon State University has concluded behavioral disorders in children could be tied to children’s gut health.(1)
Gut Feelings As Data Points
Research worldwide is conducted every year to analyze the behavior of children. This recent report comes courtesy of a published 2020 study from mBio, journal of the American Society for Microbiology. (1)
A critical period of child development (between the ages of 5 and 7) was the focus of the study, and the goal was to understand the links between gut health and behavioral development.
Much of our understanding of children’s gut microbiome comes from studies of the earliest years; the majority of reports focusing on perinatal and postnatal. Not only that, but most of the data is from animal models, not humans.
This study set out to look at 40 kids in the Pacific Northwest. The parents had active roles, including collecting data, self-reporting on home dynamics, and collecting stool samples.
Scientific reasoning pointed towards tummy happiness and children’s overall demeanor being tied. As anticipated, the published results confirmed this gut instinct. Perhaps more unexpectedly, no obvious link to diet and children’s gut health was found. (1,5)
Children’s Gut Health Connections
Parents were instructed to obtain a small stool sample from their child. Samples had to be 2-4 weeks following any antibiotic use or illness, with no stool irregularities. No anticipated stressors were to be included and collection was to be during a week with a typical diet.
To ensure the children understood, a visual representation of the study (coloring book) was used, and during home visits parents filled out questionnaires.
Parents were asked to fill out a diary of food categories eaten at breakfast, lunch and dinner in the week prior to collections. The categories of food included: grains, vegetables, fruit, meat, other protein types, dairy, yogurt (other than dairy), beans/nuts/seeds, sugars/fats/oils.
The questionnaires collected information on household poverty (based on an income-need ratio), any stressors or chaos in the home, family disease, crime in the community and any division of families. An overall total ranking was tallied.
Self-recordings from parents on the children’s temperament characteristics included the positives:
Positive Anticipation
Smiling/Laughter
High-Intensity Pleasure
Activity Levels
Impulsivity
Negative behaviors they were asked to record were:
Shyness
Discomfort
Fear, Anger/Frustration
Sadness
Soothability
Inhibitory Control
Attentional Focusing
Low-Intensity Pleasure
Perceptual Sensitivity
They discovered kids with behavioral issues had different microorganisms in their guts than those who did not. Not only were there significant associations between household socioeconomic status and gut health, but the quality of the parent-child relationship and parental stress had statistically moderated the results.
The next step for the researchers is to expand the study to more children and then track those children for several years to see if changes in their intestinal bacteria are connected to changes in behavior over a period of time. The hope is to find ways to alter micro-organisms in the G.I. tracts of children using what’s already inside their young bodies naturally, not by using any drugs. (1)
How To Help Children’s Gut Health
Feeding children a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and legumes is often a sensible idea, ensuring that the developing gut microbiome has lots of nourishment. (2,3)
Eating good bacteria or consuming live and active cultures such as those found in yogurts, kefir, kombucha, sauerkraut, pickles, miso, tempeh, kimchi, etc., is also extremely beneficial. (4)
Unfortunately, some foods can be particularly challenging. Not only can children be picky eaters, but certain flavors and textures may not appeal to young palates.
A clever idea is getting kids more involved in the planning, preparation, and presentation of meals. Letting them be mini chefs goes a long way in teaching them that they are what they eat. On other days, for a nutritious meal to please all tummies, the final food order may have to include some imaginative disguising or hiding of certain foodstuffs.
If this is too much hassle, or if family life gets in the way, specific probiotic formulas with prebiotic nutrients can be an easier solution to help make a positive shift in family gut health.
ecoProbiotic contains 8 different cultures of living lactic acid bacteria, organic acids, and herbal extracts. It’s a natural, certified organic probiotic formula, containing no preservatives, sugar, or dairy. It provides advanced microbiome support, with digestive and immune health benefits, all in a family-friendly liquid form.
Happy Insides For Happy Families
With children, it is prudent to keep an eye on ‘unusual’ behavior, especially if any are new occurrences, occur regularly, or if children exhibit behavior that looks like it may grow into a behavioral disorder.
When we see a child acting up destructively, it’s hard not to be judgmental; Simultaneously it can be easy to sympathize.
Our stance, as adults, depends on how we are feeling and therefore acting on any given day. As has been illustrated, conditions and stressors seem to have intrinsic, connective links in family gut health. It may be the right time to find intestinal heaven for all ages, for a happy and healthy family unit.


healthyholisticliving--2020-12-28--Trees Communicate And Even Recognize Their Offspring

It is often said that the world is becoming more interested in nature , but what does this mean ?
Steps are certainly being made globally to ‘ save the trees ’ , yet if trees could talk and had a catchphrase , might it be ‘ this can ’ t be right ’ or would it be ‘ hurry up , it ’ s too late ’ … The quiet , cohesive ways of the woods notice commercial harvesting or industrial replacement .
Aspens and birches are being replaced in some countries by more commercially viable pines and firs @ @ @ @ @ @ @ those used for veneer purposes .
Walnut trees have long been one of the most sought after trees in the timber industry .
Oaks maples , cereals , and ashes are also profitable .
( 1 ) The cutting of wood that is in violation of national laws is known as illegal logging .
This includes the harvesting of protected trees , felling of protected species , or exceeding quotas for logging .
In countries with weak governance and law enforcement , illegal logging often takes place .
China has become a significant @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of global illegal timber imports according to one study from 2015 .
As a result of weak forest governance , illegal timber accounts for over 70 % of some countries ’ timber exports , such as Peru , Bolivia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo .
In Brazil and Indonesia , lower proportions of the total timber produced is illegal ( Brazil – 25 % , Indonesia – 50 % ) .
Illegal logging is mostly carried out by local communities in countries such as Cambodia or Peru , which receive limited @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ringleaders receive most of the income .
( 3 ) USA , UK , Finland and Uruguay come out on top as sustainable developers both in planned harvesting and educated regeneration legislation .
Responsible approaches have led to better results in both industry and forest land , and are a testament to the beneficial effect of treating nature with respect .
( 2 ) One forest ecologist , Suzanne Simard , has put in three decades of research into Canada ’ s forests .
Her experimental efforts have concluded that trees talk to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , favor their own kin and families .
They are apparently not impressed when we simply try to replace them- especially with a different species .
( 4 ) She set about experiments , and grew mother trees with seedlings of kin and strangers .
She also deliberately injured and poisoned a tree and used carbon isotopic tracing to study messages the dying tree would send out .
With larger mycorrhizal networks , the dying mother tree tried to colonize it ’ s kin .
Simard found changes in the tree ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , even defense emissions !
To make elbow room for it ’ s children , the tree even decreased its own root rivalry .
The carbon moved down her trunk into the mycorrhizal network and into her neighboring seedlings .
The compounds sent increased the resistance of kin seedlings to future stresses .
The tree remembered it ’ s family .
It ’ s defense signals were clear .
Simard hopes to help forests deal with climate change .
Mycology research is one of the largely untapped fields she wishes to explore , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to learn about fungal networks and mycelial ‘ internets.
’ ( 4 ) Trees are the foundation of forests ; viewpoints of magnificent glory , towering with brilliant branch networks , making woodland walks wondrous .
Yet when it comes to laws of nature , the branches , soil and underground house another whole world , sometimes screaming to survive .
A forest is much more than what we see .

It is often said that the world is becoming more interested in nature, but what does this mean? Steps are certainly being made globally to ‘save the trees’, yet if trees could talk and had a catchphrase, might it be ‘this can’t be right’ or would it be ‘hurry up, it’s too late’…
Trees Trusting In Us
The quiet, cohesive ways of the woods notice commercial harvesting or industrial replacement. Aspens and birches are being replaced in some countries by more commercially viable pines and firs.
The most valuable trees worldwide are those used for veneer purposes. Walnut trees have long been one of the most sought after trees in the timber industry. Oaks maples, cereals, and ashes are also profitable. (1)
The cutting of wood that is in violation of national laws is known as illegal logging. This includes the harvesting of protected trees, felling of protected species, or exceeding quotas for logging. In countries with weak governance and law enforcement, illegal logging often takes place. China has become a significant market for timber, accounting for half of global illegal timber imports according to one study from 2015. As a result of weak forest governance, illegal timber accounts for over 70% of some countries’ timber exports, such as Peru, Bolivia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. In Brazil and Indonesia, lower proportions of the total timber produced is illegal (Brazil – 25%, Indonesia – 50%). Illegal logging is mostly carried out by local communities in countries such as Cambodia or Peru, which receive limited economic benefits, while timber operators and ringleaders receive most of the income. (3)
USA, UK, Finland and Uruguay come out on top as sustainable developers both in planned harvesting and educated regeneration legislation. Responsible approaches have led to better results in both industry and forest land, and are a testament to the beneficial effect of treating nature with respect. (2)
One forest ecologist, Suzanne Simard, has put in three decades of research into Canada’s forests. Her experimental efforts have concluded that trees talk to each other, and just like humans, favor their own kin and families. They are apparently not impressed when we simply try to replace them- especially with a different species. (4)
It’s True, Trees Talk
She set about experiments, and grew mother trees with seedlings of kin and strangers. She also deliberately injured and poisoned a tree and used carbon isotopic tracing to study messages the dying tree would send out. With larger mycorrhizal networks, the dying mother tree tried to colonize it’s kin. Simard found changes in the tree’s carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, water, even defense emissions!
To make elbow room for it’s children, the tree even decreased its own root rivalry. The carbon moved down her trunk into the mycorrhizal network and into her neighboring seedlings. The compounds sent increased the resistance of kin seedlings to future stresses. The tree remembered it’s family. It’s defense signals were clear.
Simard hopes to help forests deal with climate change. Mycology research is one of the largely untapped fields she wishes to explore, because of what we are now beginning to learn about fungal networks and mycelial ‘internets.’ (4)
Trees are the foundation of forests; viewpoints of magnificent glory, towering with brilliant branch networks, making woodland walks wondrous. Yet when it comes to laws of nature, the branches, soil and underground house another whole world, sometimes screaming to survive. A forest is much more than what we see.


healthyholisticliving--2020-03-27--‘Here’s How I Avoided All Viral Illness After My Bone Marrow Transplant, And How You Can, Too.’

March 2020 has been a tumultuous month throughout the United States .
In the throws of a pandemic , every person is questioning their daily routines and individual values .
But what if you are elderly ?
Suffer from a chronic illness ?
Or are considered especially vulnerable to coronavirus ?
Understandably , every concern the general public has is heightened when the risk of illness and death is higher for you .
One vulnerable person , A. M. Carter , has written a powerful blog on Medium ( an independent idea-sharing website ) about her experiences in preventing viral @ @ @ @ @ @ @ journey and offers up specific tips to keep vulnerable persons safe .
( 1 ) Carter has a degree in journalism from the University of Florida , enjoys running , and likes to keep her hair short .
But Carter is also defined by her experience with cancer .
In 2017 , she received a bone marrow transplant to treat a genetic form of cancer impacting her immune system .
( 2 ) In addition to her bone marrow transplant , a process that replaces foundational blood cells found within large human bones @ @ @ @ @ @ @ chemotherapy was used to essentially ‘ erase ’ her then-bone marrow , which was diseased and making her ill. With the old bone marrow gone , the transplant would also have a greater chance of being effective .
The major drawback of this process was Carter ’ s immune system was essentially non-functional during this time .
For a month before and months after the transplant , any viral illness could make her incredibly sick .
Although this period of vulnerability for Carter was way before coronavirus came into existence , Carter has @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Carter writes , “ Everyone is scared of COVID-19 ( the disease caused by novel coronavirus ) .
I get it .
I ’ ve been in the hospital a lot in my life , and I definitely don ’ t want to go back.
” ( 1 ) But she feels her everyday tips for avoiding viral illnesses are of extreme importance for everyone because of the pandemic .
While she waited for her new immune system to ‘ kick-in ’ , Carter had to be careful .
But not as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ writes , “ You might think that there were a bunch of crazy rules I had to follow , and maybe that I had to live in a bubble or travel around in a hamster ball .
As fun as the hamster ball might have been , that was not the case.
” In fact , Carter was told to follow ( strictly ) three basic rules .
• Constant , thorough cleaning and sanitizing of surfaces that I touched .
Essentially , these tips mean not skimping on how you wash your @ @ @ @ @ @ @ taking protective measures in public .
To effectively wash your hands , sing ‘ Happy Birthday ’ or wash for at least 20 full seconds .
Give special attention to washing the backs of your hands , around your thumbs , and your nails .
Per Carter , wash your hands anytime you want to touch your face , change environments , after using an electronic device , before working with food , and if you can ’ t remember the last time you washed them !
For cleaning surfaces , clean all @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and then continually go back over them as people come and go from the house .
One example is a busy morning routine in the kitchen – give the touch surfaces in this area a clean before moving onto the rest of your day .
If going out in public , assume touch surfaces have not been clean and avoid them as much as possible .
Stay at least 6 feet away from people in public areas too .
And remember , foolproof protection from the public is always staying home .
( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ not completely stop for those fighting cancer .
Though some patients may be able to delay or avoid certain immune-compromising procedures at this time , others will have to continue treatment .
However , there may be some light at the end of the tunnel .
Immunotherapy is considered one of the safest treatments right now for cancer patients since this treatment relies upon the patient ’ s own immune system to fight cancer .
Patients receiving immunotherapy do not become more susceptible to coronavirus because they do not have their natural defenses @ @ @ @ @ @ @ who are not eligible for immunotherapy , which is the case for certain cancer types , researchers are working to make treatments safer during the outbreak .
For instance , new limitations on bone marrow transplants have been put in place to diminish risks to patients .
If you are a cancer patient , stay in close contact with your medical team to get the most up to date information .
( 3 )

March 2020 has been a tumultuous month throughout the United States. In the throws of a pandemic, every person is questioning their daily routines and individual values. But what if you are elderly? Suffer from a chronic illness? Or are considered especially vulnerable to coronavirus? Understandably, every concern the general public has is heightened when the risk of illness and death is higher for you.
One vulnerable person, A. M. Carter, has written a powerful blog on Medium (an independent idea-sharing website) about her experiences in preventing viral illness. She candidly shares her medical journey and offers up specific tips to keep vulnerable persons safe. (1)
Fighting Cancer And Coronavirus
Carter has a degree in journalism from the University of Florida, enjoys running, and likes to keep her hair short. But Carter is also defined by her experience with cancer. In 2017, she received a bone marrow transplant to treat a genetic form of cancer impacting her immune system. (2)
In addition to her bone marrow transplant, a process that replaces foundational blood cells found within large human bones, Carter received intensive chemotherapy. The chemotherapy was used to essentially ‘erase’ her then-bone marrow, which was diseased and making her ill. With the old bone marrow gone, the transplant would also have a greater chance of being effective.
The major drawback of this process was Carter’s immune system was essentially non-functional during this time. For a month before and months after the transplant, any viral illness could make her incredibly sick. Although this period of vulnerability for Carter was way before coronavirus came into existence, Carter has thoughtfully linked her experience to modern issues.
Carter writes, “Everyone is scared of COVID-19 (the disease caused by novel coronavirus). I get it. I’ve been in the hospital a lot in my life, and I definitely don’t want to go back.” (1) But she feels her everyday tips for avoiding viral illnesses are of extreme importance for everyone because of the pandemic.
Preventing Viral Illness For Cancer Patients 101
While she waited for her new immune system to ‘kick-in’, Carter had to be careful. But not as careful as you may think. She writes, “You might think that there were a bunch of crazy rules I had to follow, and maybe that I had to live in a bubble or travel around in a hamster ball. As fun as the hamster ball might have been, that was not the case.”
In fact, Carter was told to follow (strictly) three basic rules.
Constant, thorough hand washing and hand sanitizing. Constant, thorough cleaning and sanitizing of surfaces that I touched. Completely avoiding primary vectors of transmission.
Essentially, these tips mean not skimping on how you wash your hands, clean your home, and taking protective measures in public. To effectively wash your hands, sing ‘Happy Birthday’ or wash for at least 20 full seconds. Give special attention to washing the backs of your hands, around your thumbs, and your nails. Per Carter, wash your hands anytime you want to touch your face, change environments, after using an electronic device, before working with food, and if you can’t remember the last time you washed them!
For cleaning surfaces, clean all known touch surfaces once right away, and then continually go back over them as people come and go from the house. One example is a busy morning routine in the kitchen – give the touch surfaces in this area a clean before moving onto the rest of your day. If going out in public, assume touch surfaces have not been clean and avoid them as much as possible. Stay at least 6 feet away from people in public areas too. And remember, foolproof protection from the public is always staying home. (2)
How Is Coronavirus Impacting Cancer Patients?
Sadly, the world does not completely stop for those fighting cancer. Though some patients may be able to delay or avoid certain immune-compromising procedures at this time, others will have to continue treatment. However, there may be some light at the end of the tunnel.
Immunotherapy is considered one of the safest treatments right now for cancer patients since this treatment relies upon the patient’s own immune system to fight cancer. Patients receiving immunotherapy do not become more susceptible to coronavirus because they do not have their natural defenses lowered, but strengthened.
For patients who are not eligible for immunotherapy, which is the case for certain cancer types, researchers are working to make treatments safer during the outbreak. For instance, new limitations on bone marrow transplants have been put in place to diminish risks to patients. If you are a cancer patient, stay in close contact with your medical team to get the most up to date information. (3)


healthyholisticliving--2020-03-27--Virtual ‘Love Sweet Love’ From Quarantined Berklee College Of Music

Humans have a boundless capacity to pull together .
A crisis can bring out the worst in some people , but most of us become more vulnerable and loving with an enhanced desire to help .
It seems the coronavirus is the biggest challenge the world has faced since the risks posed by climate change .
Every day we hear stories of how people are trying to lift each other ’ s spirits .
Students at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee and Berklee College of Music created a virtual performance of “ What the World Needs Now Is Love ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ song can inspire us to stay strong .
When social distancing found Boston Conservatory student Shelbie Rassler back at home in South Florida , she longed to remain connected to fellow students .
She decided to use a vocal arrangement of “ What the World Needs Now Is Love ” that she prepared for a cabaret event to create a virtual performance to share online .
Shelbie enlisted student musicians across the country , took their individual submissions , and arranged them to create a single , unified performance .
The results were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ during these trying times .
Shelbie posted the orchestra idea on her Facebook page saying “ your job is to just take a video of yourself singing ( literally pick any part/the whole song/just 10 seconds/riff to the gods/up to you !
! )
, playing your instrument along to the track , choreograph a dance to the music , anything your heart desires , and I ’ ll cut everything up create an arrangement from what y ’ all send me , and share it with you all because WHAT THE WORLD @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ ALL LETS MAKE IT HAPPEN.
” She immediately had fellow musicians expressing their interest in participating .
Shelbie ’ s friend and pianist Eli Schildkraut surprised her as the first to respond saying , “ Sounds great .
I ’ ll play accordion.
” Shelbie found his desire to go for a less obvious instrument “ awesome.
” Percussionist Fausto Cape was without instruments at all , so he came up with another unexpected contribution .
“ He sent me a few videos of him playing some pots and pans and just @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” she says .
He ended up playing a saltshaker filled with rice .
“ My favorite part about all of this , though , is the people asking how it ’ s done , because they want to do something like this , ” she says .
“ While we ’ re in quarantine or whatever everyone is dealing with during these kind of scary and uncertain times , it ’ s the fact that we can still do the things that we love from our home .
We can still @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and be in touch with our friends and create art together.
” Composer of the song Burt Bacharach says he was proud and honored by the performance .
“ It ’ s great seeing them find ways to be creative and stay connected to each other while maintaining social distance , ” he says .
While social distancing might be keeping us apart physically , we are becoming emotionally closer every day .

Humans have a boundless capacity to pull together. A crisis can bring out the worst in some people, but most of us become more vulnerable and loving with an enhanced desire to help. It seems the coronavirus is the biggest challenge the world has faced since the risks posed by climate change. Every day we hear stories of how people are trying to lift each other’s spirits. Students at the Boston Conservatory at Berklee and Berklee College of Music created a virtual performance of “What the World Needs Now Is Love” as an example of how a simple song can inspire us to stay strong.
Bringing Community Together
When social distancing found Boston Conservatory student Shelbie Rassler back at home in South Florida, she longed to remain connected to fellow students. She decided to use a vocal arrangement of “What the World Needs Now Is Love” that she prepared for a cabaret event to create a virtual performance to share online. Shelbie enlisted student musicians across the country, took their individual submissions, and arranged them to create a single, unified performance. The results were magical, providing a source of inspiration during these trying times.
Facebook Call To Action
Shelbie posted the orchestra idea on her Facebook page saying “your job is to just take a video of yourself singing (literally pick any part/the whole song/just 10 seconds/riff to the gods/up to you!!), playing your instrument along to the track, choreograph a dance to the music, anything your heart desires, and I’ll cut everything up create an arrangement from what y’all send me, and share it with you all because WHAT THE WORLD NEEDS NOW IS LOVE SWEET LOVE Y’ALL LETS MAKE IT HAPPEN.”
Unexpected Ideas
She immediately had fellow musicians expressing their interest in participating. Shelbie’s friend and pianist Eli Schildkraut surprised her as the first to respond saying, “Sounds great. I’ll play accordion.” Shelbie found his desire to go for a less obvious instrument “awesome.” Percussionist Fausto Cape was without instruments at all, so he came up with another unexpected contribution. “He sent me a few videos of him playing some pots and pans and just creative things he found around the house,” she says. He ended up playing a saltshaker filled with rice.
Beyond Expectation
“My favorite part about all of this, though, is the people asking how it’s done, because they want to do something like this,” she says. “While we’re in quarantine or whatever everyone is dealing with during these kind of scary and uncertain times, it’s the fact that we can still do the things that we love from our home. We can still collaborate and reach out to our friends and be in touch with our friends and create art together.”
Burt Bacharach Honored
Composer of the song Burt Bacharach says he was proud and honored by the performance. “It’s great seeing them find ways to be creative and stay connected to each other while maintaining social distance,” he says.
While social distancing might be keeping us apart physically, we are becoming emotionally closer every day.


healthyholisticliving--2020-03-27--Supermarket Trashes $35,000 Worth Of Food After Woman Coughs All Over It

It ’ s hard to know where to begin with this one .
Amidst the constant barrage of news about coronavirus , and our individual worry at whether we could be next in line , is a story out of Hanover Township Pennsylvania about a woman who purposely coughed all over $ 35,000 worth of product .
Fresh veggies , meats , bakery goods , and sundries all had to be thrown straight into the trash thanks to this woman , who is known to authorities as a “ chronic problem ” in the area .
( 1 ) In @ @ @ @ @ @ @ understatements of the year , “ Today was a very challenging day ” was the opening line of a Facebook update by Joe Fasula , co-owner of Gerrity ’ s supermarket chain .
( 1 ) The Hanover Township authorities who are treating this as a terrorist threat , say the suspect is a local woman named Margaret Cirko .
According to their Facebook update , she was seen entering the store and making verbal threats that she was sick , while purposely coughing and spitting all over several areas .
( 2 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cirko was apprehended and removed from the area .
But not before she was able to contaminate a whole swath of the store , and tried to steal a 12-pack of beer on her way out .
Mr. Fasula says that “ While there is little doubt this woman was doing it as a very twisted prank … we had no choice but to throw out all product she came in contact with .
Working closely with the Hanover Township health inspector , we identified every area that she was in , we @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and disinfected everything.
” ( 1 ) According to their Facebook statement , the Hanover Township Police Department charged the suspect with 2 Felony counts of Terrorist Threats , 1 Felony count of Threats to use a “ Biological agent ” , and 1 Felony count of Criminal Mischief .
In addition to that , they added Misdemeanor counts of Criminal Attempt to commit Retail Theft and Disorderly Conduct as well .
Bail was set at $ 50,000 .
News stories don ’ t indicate whether the woman is believed to be mentally @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on to put her in a mindset of something like this being a good idea .
Regardless , it ’ s heartening to know that these acts are not being taken lightly .
The Hanover Township authorities will saddle a person with all the charges they can in order to drive the point home .
With everyone ’ s heightened state of awareness these days , it is not a stretch in the least to look at this as an act of terrorism .
Not to mention the heartbreaking loss… all that food @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the country are bare right now as it is , so there ’ s something extra cruel about this particular incident .
As for Mr. Fasula , he seems to have found a bright spot in all this .
He concludes , “ The only silver lining to this travesty is that it gave us the unfortunate opportunity to test our protocols and demonstrate how seriously we take your safety .
One thing is for sure , we will have the cleanest display and freshest produce anywhere in northeast PA. ” ( 1 @

It’s hard to know where to begin with this one. Amidst the constant barrage of news about coronavirus, and our individual worry at whether we could be next in line, is a story out of Hanover Township Pennsylvania about a woman who purposely coughed all over $35,000 worth of product. Fresh veggies, meats, bakery goods, and sundries all had to be thrown straight into the trash thanks to this woman, who is known to authorities as a “chronic problem” in the area. (1)
A Very Challenging Day
In what may well be one of the understatements of the year, “Today was a very challenging day” was the opening line of a Facebook update by Joe Fasula, co-owner of Gerrity’s supermarket chain. (1)
The Hanover Township authorities who are treating this as a terrorist threat, say the suspect is a local woman named Margaret Cirko. According to their Facebook update, she was seen entering the store and making verbal threats that she was sick, while purposely coughing and spitting all over several areas. (2)
Thanks to quick-thinking employees, Ms. Cirko was apprehended and removed from the area. But not before she was able to contaminate a whole swath of the store, and tried to steal a 12-pack of beer on her way out. Mr. Fasula says that “While there is little doubt this woman was doing it as a very twisted prank … we had no choice but to throw out all product she came in contact with. Working closely with the Hanover Township health inspector, we identified every area that she was in, we disposed of the product and thoroughly cleaned and disinfected everything.” (1)
Felony Charges For Terrorist Acts
According to their Facebook statement, the Hanover Township Police Department charged the suspect with 2 Felony counts of Terrorist Threats, 1 Felony count of Threats to use a “Biological agent”, and 1 Felony count of Criminal Mischief. In addition to that, they added Misdemeanor counts of Criminal Attempt to commit Retail Theft and Disorderly Conduct as well. Bail was set at $50,000.
News stories don’t indicate whether the woman is believed to be mentally ill, or what may be going on to put her in a mindset of something like this being a good idea. Regardless, it’s heartening to know that these acts are not being taken lightly. The Hanover Township authorities will saddle a person with all the charges they can in order to drive the point home. With everyone’s heightened state of awareness these days, it is not a stretch in the least to look at this as an act of terrorism. Not to mention the heartbreaking loss… all that food wasted. So many store shelves across the country are bare right now as it is, so there’s something extra cruel about this particular incident.
As for Mr. Fasula, he seems to have found a bright spot in all this. He concludes, “The only silver lining to this travesty is that it gave us the unfortunate opportunity to test our protocols and demonstrate how seriously we take your safety. One thing is for sure, we will have the cleanest display and freshest produce anywhere in northeast PA.” (1)


healthyholisticliving--2020-03-26--Missouri Walmart Coronavirus Licker Charged With ‘Terrorist Threat’

In Warrenton , Missouri , a man pulled a childish and disgusting stunt—with the potential to infect a wide swath of people .
Cody Lee Pfister , 26 , called out , “ who ’ s scared of coronavirus ?
” before licking a row of deodorant at the local Walmart .
( 1 ) Police took Pfister into custody after the video of him licking the deodorant sticks went viral on social media .
A Facebook post from the Warrenton Police Department stated that : This particular video , which won ’ t be shared here , has gained @ @ @ @ @ @ @ numerous reports about the video from locals , nearby residents , as well as people from the Netherlands , Ireland , and the United Kingdom .
We take these complaints very seriously and would like to thank all of those who reported the video so the issue could be addressed .
With the high transmissibility of COVID-19 , it is no wonder that so many complaints were lodged .
COVID-19 is a respiratory virus , which can be spread through discharge from the nose and mouth—which would include saliva .
Since COVID-19 could @ @ @ @ @ @ @ days , if Pfister had the virus , it could linger and infect other shoppers .
( 2 , 3 ) Pfister was charged in court on Tuesday , March 24 , 2020 , with making terroristic threats , second degree , which is a class E felony .
The terroristic threats charge was based on creating a belief of “ danger to life ” among those who had seen the video , as well as the possibility of “ evacuation , quarantine , or closure ” of the Walmart as a result @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the first time Pfister has been charged with a crime .
In 2013 , 2016 , and 2018 , Pfister appeared before the court of Montgomery County , pleading guilty all times .
The 2013 conviction was for robbery and stealing a firearm .
In 2016 , the charge was disorderly conduct .
The last charge was a DWI—driving while intoxicated—for which he received only probation .
Court records show that he broke the conditions of his parole and was subsequently imprisoned .
( 4 , 5 ) Cody Pfister ’ s lawyer @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that he can convince the court to see Pfister ’ s actions in a different light .
In a statement on March 25th , Coyne said that “ public conduct that was immature on March 10 looks completely differently through the lens of today .
Everything has changed at warp speed , but that should not work retroactively and convert a tasteless and impulsive act into a criminal terrorist threat.
” The significance of the date is a vital point of Coyne ’ s argument .
On March 11th , the World Health @ @ @ @ @ @ @ court documents say the video is from March 11th , the same day as this announcement .
If the video was made on the 10th , as Coyne suggests , and only posted on the 11th , Pfister might be able to claim he was unaware of how much panic his video could cause .
( 5 ) Whether COVID-19 was a pandemic or not changes nothing .
COVID-19 was still a highly infectious disease before it was a pandemic .
To lick things in a store during an outbreak of infection—or even @ @ @ @ @ @ @ immunocompromised person at risk .

In Warrenton, Missouri, a man pulled a childish and disgusting stunt—with the potential to infect a wide swath of people. Cody Lee Pfister, 26, called out, “who’s scared of coronavirus?” before licking a row of deodorant at the local Walmart. (1)
The Response
Police took Pfister into custody after the video of him licking the deodorant sticks went viral on social media. A Facebook post from the Warrenton Police Department stated that:
This particular video, which won’t be shared here, has gained some international attention and we have received numerous reports about the video from locals, nearby residents, as well as people from the Netherlands, Ireland, and the United Kingdom. We take these complaints very seriously and would like to thank all of those who reported the video so the issue could be addressed.
With the high transmissibility of COVID-19, it is no wonder that so many complaints were lodged. COVID-19 is a respiratory virus, which can be spread through discharge from the nose and mouth—which would include saliva. Since COVID-19 could live on surfaces for up to nine days, if Pfister had the virus, it could linger and infect other shoppers. (2, 3)
The Charge
Pfister was charged in court on Tuesday, March 24, 2020, with making terroristic threats, second degree, which is a class E felony. The terroristic threats charge was based on creating a belief of “danger to life” among those who had seen the video, as well as the possibility of “evacuation, quarantine, or closure” of the Walmart as a result of his actions.
This is not the first time Pfister has been charged with a crime. In 2013, 2016, and 2018, Pfister appeared before the court of Montgomery County, pleading guilty all times. The 2013 conviction was for robbery and stealing a firearm. In 2016, the charge was disorderly conduct. The last charge was a DWI—driving while intoxicated—for which he received only probation. Court records show that he broke the conditions of his parole and was subsequently imprisoned. (4, 5)
Defence
Cody Pfister’s lawyer, Patrick J. Coyne, is hoping that he can convince the court to see Pfister’s actions in a different light. In a statement on March 25th, Coyne said that “public conduct that was immature on March 10 looks completely differently through the lens of today. Everything has changed at warp speed, but that should not work retroactively and convert a tasteless and impulsive act into a criminal terrorist threat.”
The significance of the date is a vital point of Coyne’s argument. On March 11th, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic. The court documents say the video is from March 11th, the same day as this announcement. If the video was made on the 10th, as Coyne suggests, and only posted on the 11th, Pfister might be able to claim he was unaware of how much panic his video could cause. (5)
However. . .
Whether COVID-19 was a pandemic or not changes nothing. COVID-19 was still a highly infectious disease before it was a pandemic. To lick things in a store during an outbreak of infection—or even with no infection at all—still puts every immunocompromised person at risk.