naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-04-27--Healing the Immune System: Autoimmune Breakthroughs Offer New Hope

Yet there is hope on the horizon , as scientific discoveries unlock important insights about the manifestation and progression of autoimmune diseases leading to new treatments and prevention tips .
Evidence is also mounting around the role of diet and lifestyle in autoimmune conditions , giving patients new avenues for taking charge of their health instead of simply waiting for a cure .
“ I ’ m excited about our progress toward prevention .
We are working to understand those tipping points in transitioning into disease that help us understand who is at highest risk , and helps give very @ @ @ @ @ @ @ She found an early version of what would become known as the autoimmune protocol ( AIP ) , and in following its guidelines , began to find relief .
Trescott connected with other women and started a private Facebook group to share information on what was improving their condition from which the AIP community sprung .
AIP , an elimination diet that seeks to reset the immune system by cutting out inflammation-causing foods and treating leaky gut , has much in common with the paleo diet and promotes vitamin- and nutrient-rich foods .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the AIP process with a customized diet .
For Trescott , “ Gluten is a forever-no , and I am also allergic to dairy and sensitive to a lot of nightshade vegetables , like tomatoes and peppers.
” It took three years to recover most of her functioning , and although she had been a personal chef , it was still challenging to determine a new approach to eating that didn ’ t include the grains and legumes that had been staples of her diet .
Trescott is still on medications , including @ @ @ @ @ @ @ relied on from the start .
“ There is a misconception that the AIP is an alternative to conventional medicine .
We really pride ourselves on using all the tools in our toolbox , including surgery , medication and lifestyle changes , ” she says .
Anecdotal successes like Trescott ’ s have led researchers to pursue funding to test the AIP ’ s efficacy .
In a pilot study of 18 individuals with an average sick time of 19 years that didn ’ t respond to traditional medication , 73 percent were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the trial , having followed the AIP .
“ It was a small sample size , but the results are promising , ” says Trescott .
Though Wahls had been a vegetarian on a low-fat diet for 20 years , she went back to eating meat and gave up all dairy , wheat and grains , but still wasn ’ t improving .
Delving back into the science of her condition , Wahls realized that mitochondrial support was key , and the speed of her decline slowed while taking a cocktail of vitamins @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ t until she took a comprehensive approach to optimize everything she could take in through her food rather than relying on supplements that she saw radical results : Her brain fog , fatigue and pain went away and she biked around the block for the first time in six years .
“ Taking in nutrients in the form of food rather than supplements , you get related compounds and thousands of others in biologically anticipated ratios , ” explains Wahls .
“ I still do take some supplements , but the magic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , says Wahls , include magnesium , zinc , selenium , sulfur , amino acids , cholesterol , omega-6 and omega-3s , fats , carnitine and creatine .
Her rule of thumb for daily intake is three cups of leafy green vegetables ; three cups of sulfuric vegetables like cabbage , mushrooms and onions ; and three cups of deeply pigmented vegetables , plus sources of protein for meat eaters and vegetarians .
While her work was initially not accepted , today she has funding from the National MS Society and her research @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
“ Basic science is now showing that the microbiome has a huge impact on the immune system activity and the brain ; the food we eat can turn gene expression on and off , ” says Wahls , who hasn ’ t taken any drugs for her autoimmune condition since 2008 .
Buckner cautions against patients trying to manage disease with lifestyle changes alone , without giving available allopathic treatments a fair try .
“ People do better if they are treated early and aggressively .
They are reliant on fewer medications @ @ @ @ @ @ @ have permanent damage if they seek treatment early.
” At-risk individuals should be aware of factors under their control , adds James .
“ If someone is worried about autoimmune disease running in their family , monitoring and maintaining adequate vitamin D levels and avoiding smoking and other high-risk behaviors can help improve their chances.
” Even sleep patterns can play a role in disease manifestation , says the researcher .
In one study , individuals at high risk for autoimmune disease that slept less than seven hours per day were more likely @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to James .
There are some clear links between autoimmune diseases , such as the genetic predisposition that runs in families .
“ Someone with rheumatoid arthritis may have a sister with celiac disease , for example , and one individual may suffer from multiple autoimmune conditions .
We can learn from these common genetic links , ” says Buckner .
These common links can serve as important clues .
For example , Buckner says they are able to demonstrate changes in T cells in diabetes and MS that are the same , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the two conditions .
While the process from basic scientific discovery to development of effective treatment can be slow , there are some concrete breakthroughs autoimmune researchers are excited about , having demonstrated ability to both prevent and delay disease .
Citing a recent clinical trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine , “ They have demonstrated in kids at high risk for developing Type 1 diabetes the ability to delay onset for at least two years .
It ’ s an incredibly exciting finding , ” says Buckner .
Mackay @ @ @ @ @ @ @ addressing specific immune system abnormalities linked to inflammatory problems .
“ Lupus is very challenging to diagnose and treat because it can affect every system in the body , ” says Mackay , whose research team has focused on lupus for decades .
“ The only forms of treatment have been very immune-suppressive medications that shut down the immune response .
None of these medications are specific , so in shutting down the immune response to treat lupus , they in turn interfere with the body ’ s ability to fight off infection @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in on single cells from biopsies that indicate which proteins are abnormal , thereby helping develop more selective therapies , she says .
Some 23 million Americans suffer from one or more autoimmune diseases—a category comprised of more than 80 conditions , including fibromyalgia , Hashimoto ’ s disease , psoriasis , rheumatoid arthritis and Type 1 diabetes .
These pernicious disorders are notoriously difficult to diagnose , even harder to treat and can be debilitating , diminishing the quality of life for sufferers .

Another commonality is the increased prevalence of autoimmune disease in women versus men; in the case of lupus, for example, a nine-fold difference. Some early indicators are that this may be related to a “gene dosage effect”, as men with XXY chromosomes have the same risk of developing lupus as other women, and women with XXX chromosomes (known in medical parlance as “superwomen”) have an even higher risk of autoimmune disease, according to Judith James, chair of the Arthritis & Clinical Immunology Program at the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, in Oklahoma City
Yet there is hope on the horizon, as scientific discoveries unlock important insights about the manifestation and progression of autoimmune diseases leading to new treatments and prevention tips. Evidence is also mounting around the role of diet and lifestyle in autoimmune conditions, giving patients new avenues for taking charge of their health instead of simply waiting for a cure.
Autoimmune diseases are chronic and can affect almost any part of the body, including the heart, brain, muscles, skin, eyes, joints, lungs, kidneys, glands, digestive tract and blood vessels. Each disease carries its own set of symptoms, but inflammation is nearly always present, and are all connected by how the immune system attacks the body’s healthy tissues. “Those shared characteristics hold the potential for shared treatments, and ultimately potentially common cures,” says Jane Buckner, president of the Benaroya Research Institute (BRI), at Virginia Mason, in Seattle, which works to advance the prediction, prevention, reversal and cure of immune system diseases.
“I’m excited about our progress toward prevention. We are working to understand those tipping points in transitioning into disease that help us understand who is at highest risk, and helps give very directed therapies,” says James.
Self-Healing from Autoimmunity
By her early 20s, Mickey Trescott, of Willamette Valley, Oregon, was bedridden and had lost her job to autoimmune disease. At one point, doctors thought it was multiple sclerosis (MS); she was dizzy, numb, falling over and slurring her speech. Eventually, she was diagnosed with both Hashimoto’s and celiac diseases, affecting the thyroid and small intestine, respectively. Trescott, a nutritionist, chef and author of The Autoimmune Paleo Cookbook , had been vegan for 10 years, but had a feeling that her body needed something different.
She found an early version of what would become known as the autoimmune protocol (AIP), and in following its guidelines, began to find relief. Trescott connected with other women and started a private Facebook group to share information on what was improving their condition from which the AIP community sprung. AIP, an elimination diet that seeks to reset the immune system by cutting out inflammation-causing foods and treating leaky gut, has much in common with the paleo diet and promotes vitamin- and nutrient-rich foods. However, every individual comes out of the AIP process with a customized diet.
For Trescott, “Gluten is a forever-no, and I am also allergic to dairy and sensitive to a lot of nightshade vegetables, like tomatoes and peppers.” It took three years to recover most of her functioning, and although she had been a personal chef, it was still challenging to determine a new approach to eating that didn’t include the grains and legumes that had been staples of her diet.
Trescott is still on medications, including the same thyroid support she’s relied on from the start. “There is a misconception that the AIP is an alternative to conventional medicine. We really pride ourselves on using all the tools in our toolbox, including surgery, medication and lifestyle changes,” she says.
Anecdotal successes like Trescott’s have led researchers to pursue funding to test the AIP’s efficacy. In a pilot study of 18 individuals with an average sick time of 19 years that didn’t respond to traditional medication, 73 percent were in clinical remission at the end of the trial, having followed the AIP. “It was a small sample size, but the results are promising,” says Trescott.
Physician, Healed Thyself
Like many physicians, Terry Wahls focused on treating her patients with drugs or surgical procedures—until the Iowa City doctor was diagnosed with MS in 2000. Within three years, despite conventional medical treatments, her back and stomach muscles had weakened to the point where she needed a tilt-recline wheelchair, and by the summer of 2007, she could no longer sit up.
bluedog studio/Shutterstock.com
Though Wahls had been a vegetarian on a low-fat diet for 20 years, she went back to eating meat and gave up all dairy, wheat and grains, but still wasn’t improving. Delving back into the science of her condition, Wahls realized that mitochondrial support was key, and the speed of her decline slowed while taking a cocktail of vitamins to support its functioning.
It wasn’t until she took a comprehensive approach to optimize everything she could take in through her food rather than relying on supplements that she saw radical results: Her brain fog, fatigue and pain went away and she biked around the block for the first time in six years. “Taking in nutrients in the form of food rather than supplements, you get related compounds and thousands of others in biologically anticipated ratios,” explains Wahls. “I still do take some supplements, but the magic is the food.”
Those key ingredients, says Wahls, include magnesium, zinc, selenium, sulfur, amino acids, cholesterol, omega-6 and omega-3s, fats, carnitine and creatine. Her rule of thumb for daily intake is three cups of leafy green vegetables; three cups of sulfuric vegetables like cabbage, mushrooms and onions; and three cups of deeply pigmented vegetables, plus sources of protein for meat eaters and vegetarians.
While her work was initially not accepted, today she has funding from the National MS Society and her research has been published in numerous peer-reviewed journals. “Basic science is now showing that the microbiome has a huge impact on the immune system activity and the brain; the food we eat can turn gene expression on and off,” says Wahls, who hasn’t taken any drugs for her autoimmune condition since 2008.
Buckner cautions against patients trying to manage disease with lifestyle changes alone, without giving available allopathic treatments a fair try. “People do better if they are treated early and aggressively. They are reliant on fewer medications down the road and don’t have permanent damage if they seek treatment early.”
However, even researchers focused on pharmaceutical approaches acknowledge the importance of diet and lifestyle. Meggan Mackay , professor of Molecular Medicine at the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, at Northwell Health, in Manhasset, New York, believes this can play a critical role in disease management. She cites numerous studies showing exercise as a stress-buster positively influencing disease outcomes, as well as a more specific study looking at the benefits of adding fish oil and vitamin D to the diets of lupus patients. “The rise in obesity, which is linked to increased inflammation in the U.S., may be one of reasons we are seeing more autoimmune disease than ever,” says Mackay.
At-risk individuals should be aware of factors under their control, adds James. “If someone is worried about autoimmune disease running in their family, monitoring and maintaining adequate vitamin D levels and avoiding smoking and other high-risk behaviors can help improve their chances.” Even sleep patterns can play a role in disease manifestation, says the researcher. In one study, individuals at high risk for autoimmune disease that slept less than seven hours per day were more likely to develop an autoimmune condition, according to James.
Common Links Serve as Research Clues
There are some clear links between autoimmune diseases, such as the genetic predisposition that runs in families. “Someone with rheumatoid arthritis may have a sister with celiac disease, for example, and one individual may suffer from multiple autoimmune conditions. We can learn from these common genetic links,” says Buckner. These common links can serve as important clues. For example, Buckner says they are able to demonstrate changes in T cells in diabetes and MS that are the same, which might lead to common treatments for the two conditions.
fizkes/Shutterstock.com
While the process from basic scientific discovery to development of effective treatment can be slow, there are some concrete breakthroughs autoimmune researchers are excited about, having demonstrated ability to both prevent and delay disease. Citing a recent clinical trial published in the New England Journal of Medicine, “They have demonstrated in kids at high risk for developing Type 1 diabetes the ability to delay onset for at least two years. It’s an incredibly exciting finding,” says Buckner.
Mackay is hopeful about advances in basic science addressing specific immune system abnormalities linked to inflammatory problems. “Lupus is very challenging to diagnose and treat because it can affect every system in the body,” says Mackay, whose research team has focused on lupus for decades. “The only forms of treatment have been very immune-suppressive medications that shut down the immune response. None of these medications are specific, so in shutting down the immune response to treat lupus, they in turn interfere with the body’s ability to fight off infection and cancer.” Researchers are now honing in on single cells from biopsies that indicate which proteins are abnormal, thereby helping develop more selective therapies, she says.
Connect with Washington, D.C. freelance writer April Thompson.
Seeing progress in the lab is one thing; seeing it in the waiting room is another, and that’s where autoimmune scientists and clinicians are really beginning to note a difference. “I’ve seen patients for 25 years, and when we started, we had very few options in my clinic, which was full of wheelchairs,” says Buckner. “In the last 20 years, we have seen an explosion in research and available treatments. I don’t have wheelchairs in my office anymore.”
Some 23 million Americans suffer from one or more autoimmune diseases—a category comprised of more than 80 conditions, including fibromyalgia, Hashimoto’s disease, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis and Type 1 diabetes. These pernicious disorders are notoriously difficult to diagnose, even harder to treat and can be debilitating, diminishing the quality of life for sufferers.


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-04-27--The Matrix of Life: Boosting Collagen for Better Health

In studies , collagen supplements show promise for joint pain , arthritic conditions , osteoporosis and heart health .
A Penn State study of 147 student athletes found that those that took 10 grams of collagen hydrolysate daily for 24 weeks had significantly less joint pain while walking and at rest compared to a placebo group .
A 2012 study featured in Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that 1,200 milligrams of collagen hydrolysate taken daily decreased joint pain in older people by 20 percent compared to a placebo .
In a 2018 study , post-menopausal women that took five grams @ @ @ @ @ @ @ better bone buildup and less bone degradation .
A 2017 Japanese study of 31 healthy adults found that those that took 16 grams of collagen daily had more flexible arteries after six months .
Collagen health starts with our diet .
Leafy greens and jewel-toned , lycopene-rich vegetables , like beets , red peppers , tomatoes , berries and pomegranates , as well as seeds , including chia , sunflower and pumpkin , all pack a collagen punch .
Schoenfeld recommends bone broth , too , for its joint-lubricating molecules called glycosaminoglycans , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ water .
Also important , according to Petrucci , is vitamin C : “ If you ’ re depleted of vitamin C , your body won ’ t make any collagen .
Experiment with broccoli , kiwi , tomatoes and various citrus fruits .
Bioflavonoids also improve the ability of vitamin C to be absorbed and utilized.
” Schoenfeld recommends chicken , including the skin ; omega-3-rich fish with edible bones , such as sardines and canned salmon ; and proline-rich , aged cheeses and yogurt .
“ Gelatin is also a fantastic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ collagen and can be added to foods high in water like soups , stews , hot cereals , as can bone broth and collagen powders , ” she says .
A 2019 review of 11 studies published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology found that oral collagen hydrolysate or tripeptide at dosages ranging from 2.5 grams to 10 grams a day increased “ skin elasticity , hydration and dermal collagen density ” and showed promise for wound healing and skin aging .
Aloe vera , ginseng , berries , garlic , hyuralonic @ @ @ @ @ @ @ collagen production , according to osteopathic physician and author Joseph Mercola .
For vegans , British homeopath Melissa Foreman recommends homeopathically-based minerals known as tissue salts at low potency , “ which offer the benefits of meat-derived collagen and bone broth without having to ingest a meat product.
” She personally relies on a combination of Nat phos , Calc phos and Kali sulph to promote new skin cells and improve the skin cell matrix .
“ These remedies are totally animal-free , ” she says .
“ You can produce a supplement @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the same health benefits of bone broth.
” Homeopathic physician Melissa Foreman , of Brighton , England , recommends the following tissue salts : Calc phos for strengthening bones and easing stiff joints , is particularly recommended for active people , aging athletes and menopausal women .
It supports growth , builds cells , supports teeth and nail strength , and helps ease irritable bowel syndrome .
Calc fluor promotes elasticity and flexibility .
It ’ s essential for tendon and bone health ; softens , strengthens and tones the skin ; and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ their elasticity and become compromised .
Silica is found in hair , nails and bones .
It decreases inflammation , eases painful joints , supports and strengthens nails , encourages new hair growth and improves the length and quality of eyelashes .
Nat Mur brings moisture to the skin and regulates the moisture content of every cell in the body .
It promotes hydrochloric acid , helping to prevent heartburn , bloating , colic and flatulence .
Nat phos is known as the antacid of the biochemical world and like collagen , can @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Collagen , a protein , holds us together from the inside-out , helping to build bones and providing the scaffolding that knits our bones and organs together .
Stress and poor lifestyle habits , such as smoking and eating too much sugar , can contribute to its breakdown and accelerate the aging process , but strategic dietary choices and supplements can have a significant positive impact on our skin , as well as underlying conditions .

The Collagen Diet: Rejuvenate Skin, Strengthen Joints and Feel Younger by Boosting Collagen Intake and Production. Collagen is mostly found in tendons, ligaments and skin, and is also abundant in bones, cartilage, muscles, corneas, blood vessels, the gut, vertebrae discs and teeth. Although celebrated for its cosmetic effects, “Most people are surprised to learn that collagen is equally important for blood vessels and tissues surrounding and supporting the internal organs,” says Pamela Schoenfeld , a dietitian and nutritionist in Raleigh, North Carolina, and author of. Collagen is mostly found in tendons, ligaments and skin, and is also abundant in bones, cartilage, muscles, corneas, blood vessels, the gut, vertebrae discs and teeth.
In studies, collagen supplements show promise for joint pain, arthritic conditions, osteoporosis and heart health. A Penn State study of 147 student athletes found that those that took 10 grams of collagen hydrolysate daily for 24 weeks had significantly less joint pain while walking and at rest compared to a placebo group. A 2012 study featured in Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that 1,200 milligrams of collagen hydrolysate taken daily decreased joint pain in older people by 20 percent compared to a placebo. In a 2018 study, post-menopausal women that took five grams of collagen daily for a year had better bone buildup and less bone degradation. A 2017 Japanese study of 31 healthy adults found that those that took 16 grams of collagen daily had more flexible arteries after six months.
Essential Foods
Collagen health starts with our diet. Leafy greens and jewel-toned, lycopene-rich vegetables, like beets, red peppers, tomatoes, berries and pomegranates, as well as seeds, including chia, sunflower and pumpkin, all pack a collagen punch. Schoenfeld recommends bone broth, too, for its joint-lubricating molecules called glycosaminoglycans, which hold many times their weight in water.
Dr. Kellyann’s Bone Broth Diet, concurs: “Bone broth is more than a soup. It’s concentrated healing and contains a bioavailable form of collagen your body can use immediately. It contains calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin, amino acids and so much more.” She also recommends sulfur-rich foods like eggs, broccoli, onions, garlic and cauliflower, as well as shellfish and red meat in moderation for copper. “Copper activates the enzyme that is critical in producing collagen,” she explains.
Kellyann Petrucci , a naturopathic doctor in Philadelphia and author of, concurs: “Bone broth is more than a soup. It’s concentrated healing and contains a bioavailable form of collagen your body can use immediately. It contains calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, collagen, glucosamine, chondroitin, amino acids and so much more.” She also recommends sulfur-rich foods like eggs, broccoli, onions, garlic and cauliflower, as well as shellfish and red meat in moderation for copper. “Copper activates the enzyme that is critical in producing collagen,” she explains.
Also important, according to Petrucci, is vitamin C: “If you’re depleted of vitamin C, your body won’t make any collagen. Experiment with broccoli, kiwi, tomatoes and various citrus fruits. Bioflavonoids also improve the ability of vitamin C to be absorbed and utilized.”
Schoenfeld recommends chicken, including the skin; omega-3-rich fish with edible bones, such as sardines and canned salmon; and proline-rich, aged cheeses and yogurt. “Gelatin is also a fantastic way for the whole family to enjoy collagen and can be added to foods high in water like soups, stews, hot cereals, as can bone broth and collagen powders,” she says.
Supplements
A 2019 review of 11 studies published in the Journal of Drugs in Dermatology found that oral collagen hydrolysate or tripeptide at dosages ranging from 2.5 grams to 10 grams a day increased “skin elasticity, hydration and dermal collagen density” and showed promise for wound healing and skin aging. Aloe vera, ginseng, berries, garlic, hyuralonic acid and red light therapy also boost collagen production, according to osteopathic physician and author Joseph Mercola.
Nat phos, Calc phos and Kali sulph to promote new skin cells and improve the skin cell matrix. “These remedies are totally animal-free,” she says. “You can produce a supplement similar to collagen powder and it has the same health benefits of bone broth.”
For vegans, British homeopath Melissa Foreman recommends homeopathically-based minerals known as tissue salts at low potency, “which offer the benefits of meat-derived collagen and bone broth without having to ingest a meat product.” She personally relies on a combination ofandto promote new skin cells and improve the skin cell matrix. “These remedies are totally animal-free,” she says. “You can produce a supplement similar to collagen powder and it has the same health benefits of bone broth.”
Maya Whitman is the author of several books.
Homeopathic Collagen-Boosters
PhotoSGH/Shutterstock.com
Calc phos for strengthening bones and easing stiff joints, is particularly recommended for active people, aging athletes and menopausal women. It supports growth, builds cells, supports teeth and nail strength, and helps ease irritable bowel syndrome.
Calc fluor promotes elasticity and flexibility. It’s essential for tendon and bone health; softens, strengthens and tones the skin; and helps when the digestive organs have lost their elasticity and become compromised.
Silica is found in hair, nails and bones. It decreases inflammation, eases painful joints, supports and strengthens nails, encourages new hair growth and improves the length and quality of eyelashes.
Nat Mur brings moisture to the skin and regulates the moisture content of every cell in the body. It promotes hydrochloric acid, helping to prevent heartburn, bloating, colic and flatulence.
Nat phos is known as the antacid of the biochemical world and like collagen, can protect the gut by neutralizing acids. Homeopathic physician Melissa Foreman , of Brighton, England, recommends the following tissue salts:for strengthening bones and easing stiff joints, is particularly recommended for active people, aging athletes and menopausal women. It supports growth, builds cells, supports teeth and nail strength, and helps ease irritable bowel syndrome.promotes elasticity and flexibility. It’s essential for tendon and bone health; softens, strengthens and tones the skin; and helps when the digestive organs have lost their elasticity and become compromised.is found in hair, nails and bones. It decreases inflammation, eases painful joints, supports and strengthens nails, encourages new hair growth and improves the length and quality of eyelashes.brings moisture to the skin and regulates the moisture content of every cell in the body. It promotes hydrochloric acid, helping to prevent heartburn, bloating, colic and flatulence.is known as the antacid of the biochemical world and like collagen, can protect the gut by neutralizing acids.
Collagen, a protein, holds us together from the inside-out, helping to build bones and providing the scaffolding that knits our bones and organs together. Stress and poor lifestyle habits, such as smoking and eating too much sugar, can contribute to its breakdown and accelerate the aging process, but strategic dietary choices and supplements can have a significant positive impact on our skin, as well as underlying conditions.


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-04-16--Virus Fighters: Essential Oils for Challenging Times

The mixture of five oils : eucalyptus , clove , cinnamon , lemon and rosemary , is known as Thieves .
As the story goes , in the 1500s , as the Black Death decimated Europe , when four unemployed spice merchants that turned to robbing the bodies and homes of the dead were captured and threatened with being burned alive , they confessed to the judge their secret to avoiding infection—the spice blend that they rubbed on their hands , ears , feet and temples .
They were all hanged , but their formula survives as Thieves , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ essential oil blends in the market , sold under that name and also as Five Guards , Health Shield and Fighting Five .
Although shown to sharply reduce three kinds of airborne bacteria in 10 minutes , its antiviral properties have not been extensively studied .
Its components , however , have proven antimicrobial , antiseptic and antiviral properties : Adding five drops of the blend , along with water in a diffuser , can waft the scent throughout a room and diminish airborne odors and germs .
For respiratory support , put @ @ @ @ @ @ @ steaming , but not boiling , water , drape a towel around the cup and face , and breathe in the fumes .
Add it to a carrier oil like jojoba oil or coconut oil at a 1:30 ratio ( such as one-half ounce Thieves to 15 ounces jojoba ) and rub it on pulse points in the wrist and neck .
But do not ingest the blend .
If a child under 10 is in the house , don ’ t diffuse it or use it topically on them , because rosemary @ @ @ @ @ @ @ child , advises Christina Anthis , author of The Beginner ’ s Guide to Essential Oils : Everything You Need to Know to Get Started .
In these coronavirus days , an essential oil mixture with legendary origins in the Bubonic Plague offers soothing scents for the homebound and might add some viral protection.
, long used for respiratory infections , has been proven effective against a number of viruses , particularly the swine flu and herpes type 1 viruses.has exhibited strong antiviral activity against such viruses as the adenovirus type 3 respiratory @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and can prevent pneumonia due to influenza.oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties , and is often used in cleaning products.eases stress and has antiviral , antimicrobial and antidepressant qualities .
• 35 drops lemon • 20 drops cinnamon leaf • 15 drops clove bud • 15 drops eucalyptus • 10 drops rosemary

The mixture of five oils: eucalyptus, clove, cinnamon, lemon and rosemary, is known as Thieves. As the story goes, in the 1500s, as the Black Death decimated Europe, when four unemployed spice merchants that turned to robbing the bodies and homes of the dead were captured and threatened with being burned alive, they confessed to the judge their secret to avoiding infection—the spice blend that they rubbed on their hands, ears, feet and temples.
They were all hanged, but their formula survives as Thieves, and is today one of the most popular essential oil blends in the market, sold under that name and also as Five Guards, Health Shield and Fighting Five. Although shown to sharply reduce three kinds of airborne bacteria in 10 minutes, its antiviral properties have not been extensively studied. Its components, however, have proven antimicrobial, antiseptic and antiviral properties:
Thieves can be purchased in natural health stores or online. For a homemade blend, Jennifer Lane, an aromatherapist, registered nurse and founder of Loving Essential Oils , recommends combining these essential oils:
Adding five drops of the blend, along with water in a diffuser, can waft the scent throughout a room and diminish airborne odors and germs. For respiratory support, put a few drops into a cup of steaming, but not boiling, water, drape a towel around the cup and face, and breathe in the fumes. Add it to a carrier oil like jojoba oil or coconut oil at a 1:30 ratio (such as one-half ounce Thieves to 15 ounces jojoba) and rub it on pulse points in the wrist and neck. But do not ingest the blend. If a child under 10 is in the house, don’t diffuse it or use it topically on them, because rosemary and eucalyptus can be unsafe for a child, advises Christina Anthis, author of The Beginner’s Guide to Essential Oils: Everything You Need to Know to Get Started.
In these coronavirus days, an essential oil mixture with legendary origins in the Bubonic Plague offers soothing scents for the homebound and might add some viral protection., long used for respiratory infections, has been proven effective against a number of viruses, particularly the swine flu and herpes type 1 viruses.has exhibited strong antiviral activity against such viruses as the adenovirus type 3 respiratory virus, poliovirus and coxsackievirus.shows antiviral activity and can prevent pneumonia due to influenza.oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties, and is often used in cleaning products.eases stress and has antiviral, antimicrobial and antidepressant qualities.• 35 drops lemon• 20 drops cinnamon leaf• 15 drops clove bud• 15 drops eucalyptus• 10 drops rosemary


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-04-16--Finding Calm During Trying Times

Finding Calm During Trying Times

But something happened .
A tornado touched down in the neighborhood .
Or a train derailed in a cousin ’ s hometown .
Or , like now , an invisible killer stalks the globe , threatening to take our life or the life of someone we know .
Within seconds , we are flooded with horror and helplessness .
Unable to stop the cascade of acute stress hormones , our bodies shift into fight-or-flight mode or leave us frozen like deer in the headlights .
Whether we see what is happening online , on screen or in real time , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Although disturbing images can be swiped away , when something bad happens to us , we don ’ t know what to do .
We can ’ t change the channel .
Even during these tough times , we can find opportunities to develop new strengths and grow individually and together .
To start with , we need emotional first aid to help us find calm quickly .
We can do this by locating the tension points in our body and asking them what color would help them feel calm .
Then @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it find its way within to soothe our cells , and exhale our stress by breathing out a different color .
We can repeat this technique as long and as often as needed .
Teachers at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School , in Parkland , Florida , report that this really works for kids , too .
To heal means to make whole .
It doesn ’ t mean to make something go away .
Hardship is part of life ’ s journey .
Even this global pandemic can serve as our spiritual @ @ @ @ @ @ @ traditions heal from life-shattering events .
Five gifts offer us the keys to wholeness : - Growth lets us look back with thanks for what we learned when the journey of life was anything but comfortable and easy .
From the moment we wake up and log on to our day , we are flooded with news about people whose days started off much the same , with an expectation of going from point A to point B , to lunch , to point C and then back home.- Humility helps us accept @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the edge off when the hurt lasts longer than we want.- Empathy keeps us connected for the long haul.- Forgiveness means forgiving ourselves , our leaders and God.Let ’ s journey together.The Five Gifts : Discovering Hope , Healing and Strength When Disaster Strikes .

But something happened. A tornado touched down in the neighborhood. Or a train derailed in a cousin’s hometown. Or, like now, an invisible killer stalks the globe, threatening to take our life or the life of someone we know.
Within seconds, we are flooded with horror and helplessness. Unable to stop the cascade of acute stress hormones, our bodies shift into fight-or-flight mode or leave us frozen like deer in the headlights. Whether we see what is happening online, on screen or in real time, we feel unsafe in our own skin. Although disturbing images can be swiped away, when something bad happens to us, we don’t know what to do. We can’t change the channel.
Even during these tough times, we can find opportunities to develop new strengths and grow individually and together. To start with, we need emotional first aid to help us find calm quickly. We can do this by locating the tension points in our body and asking them what color would help them feel calm. Then we can inhale that color, letting it find its way within to soothe our cells, and exhale our stress by breathing out a different color. We can repeat this technique as long and as often as needed. Teachers at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, in Parkland, Florida, report that this really works for kids, too.
To heal means to make whole. It doesn’t mean to make something go away. Hardship is part of life’s journey. Even this global pandemic can serve as our spiritual wake-up call to learn how different spiritual traditions heal from life-shattering events. Five gifts offer us the keys to wholeness:
- Growth lets us look back with thanks for what we learned when the journey of life was anything but comfortable and easy.
From the moment we wake up and log on to our day, we are flooded with news about people whose days started off much the same, with an expectation of going from point A to point B, to lunch, to point C and then back home.- Humility helps us accept what we cannot change.- Patience takes the edge off when the hurt lasts longer than we want.- Empathy keeps us connected for the long haul.- Forgiveness means forgiving ourselves, our leaders and God.Let’s journey together.The Five Gifts: Discovering Hope, Healing and Strength When Disaster Strikes.


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-04-16--Coronavirus Pet Safety: Facts and Tips for Dog and Cat Owners

Cats have their own coronavirus that , like dogs , usually causes an asymptomatic infection , or may cause mild diarrhea or mild respiratory infection ( especially in kittens ) .
However , this coronavirus , for unknown reasons , can mutate in the GI tract and transform into the ( usually ) lethal feline infectious peritonitis ( FIP ) virus ( this occurs in about 10 percent of infected cats ) .
Again , this feline coronavirus will not infect dogs or people , and only infects felids .
( A curious note is that cats can become infected @ @ @ @ @ @ @ naturally , but do not become ill , and the original SARS virus was suspected to have originated from a mongoose . )
As with human coronaviruses , canine and feline coronaviruses can survive outside of the pet ’ s body for a period of time , especially in a colder environment , but are easily killed with most soap or disinfectants .
Dogs and cats that develop their own coronaviral diseases will not infect people .
However , by serving as fomites ( objects that can carry an infectious organism on the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ potentially carry a virus on their coat or skin if an infected family member gets infected material ( saliva , respiratory droplets , etc . )
onto the animal .
Like any other surface in the home , the virus could transfer from the surface of the pet to other uninfected family members .
( This is usually by hand to face transfer . )
To be safe , it may be wise to keep the family pet away from the infected family member , or at least have the infected family member @ @ @ @ @ @ @ coat with a wet washcloth before the pet is exposed to uninfected family members .
Keep in mind that maintaining proper blood levels of vitamin D in people and in pets is important in minimizing infectious diseases .
Shawn Messonnier , DVM , is the owner of Paws & Claws Holistic Animal Hospital , in Plano , Texas , and an award-winning author and host on Martha Stewart Radio .
There are many types of coronavirus .
COVID-19 is new—a novel coronavirus—and there are currently no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in dogs or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a canine coronavirus .
It is fairly species-specific and will not infect people , but can infect cats ( without causing clinical disease in naturally infected cats ) .
Most infected dogs do not show symptoms and recover without showing signs of infection ; young puppies may exhibit mild diarrhea .

Cats have their own coronavirus that, like dogs, usually causes an asymptomatic infection, or may cause mild diarrhea or mild respiratory infection (especially in kittens). However, this coronavirus, for unknown reasons, can mutate in the GI tract and transform into the (usually) lethal feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) virus (this occurs in about 10 percent of infected cats).
Again, this feline coronavirus will not infect dogs or people, and only infects felids. (A curious note is that cats can become infected with the human SARS coronavirus experimentally and naturally, but do not become ill, and the original SARS virus was suspected to have originated from a mongoose.) As with human coronaviruses, canine and feline coronaviruses can survive outside of the pet’s body for a period of time, especially in a colder environment, but are easily killed with most soap or disinfectants.
Dogs and cats that develop their own coronaviral diseases will not infect people. However, by serving as fomites (objects that can carry an infectious organism on the surface), dogs and cats could potentially carry a virus on their coat or skin if an infected family member gets infected material (saliva, respiratory droplets, etc.) onto the animal. Like any other surface in the home, the virus could transfer from the surface of the pet to other uninfected family members. (This is usually by hand to face transfer.)
To be safe, it may be wise to keep the family pet away from the infected family member, or at least have the infected family member bathe and/or wipe the pet’s coat with a wet washcloth before the pet is exposed to uninfected family members.
Keep in mind that maintaining proper blood levels of vitamin D in people and in pets is important in minimizing infectious diseases.
This is an evolving topic. As new discoveries and research arise, check the Centers for Disease Control website for the latest advisories and recommendations.
Shawn Messonnier, DVM, is the owner of Paws & Claws Holistic Animal Hospital, in Plano, Texas, and an award-winning author and host on Martha Stewart Radio.
There are many types of coronavirus. COVID-19 is new—a novel coronavirus—and there are currently no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in dogs or cats. Dogs can become infected with a canine coronavirus. It is fairly species-specific and will not infect people, but can infect cats (without causing clinical disease in naturally infected cats). Most infected dogs do not show symptoms and recover without showing signs of infection; young puppies may exhibit mild diarrhea.


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-04-27--Soul Nourishment: The Kitchen As Sacred Space

“ If we don ’ t touch the transcendent—emotionally and spiritually—physical nourishment won ’ t fill us up , ” says Ronna Kabatznick , Ph.D. , former psychological consultant to Weight Watchers International and the author of The Zen of Eating : Ancient Answers to Modern Weight Problems .
“ Seeing the kitchen as sacred is something that represents gratitude , beauty and blessings.
” Preparing meals the old-fashioned way can slow us down and foster mindfulness , but Kabatznick emphasizes that cooking is irrelevant .
“ Look at the kitchen in terms of possibilities : ‘ What can I @ @ @ @ @ @ @ don ’ t have to turn into Julia Child , ” she says , adding , “ You could be eating Chinese takeout or a prune ; it ’ s all about mindset and simple rituals like saying a blessing , appreciating what we eat as a great gift.
” Kabatznick encourages everyone to eat with dignity , and this includes using the good dishes , putting fresh flowers on the table and eating with awareness .
Preparing food , whether a healthy smoothie or a gourmet weekend dinner for two , is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and others .
Baron loves the presence of plants , lovely ceramics and interesting platters and dishes , and notes , “ Families can definitely shop , chop , cook and meal-plan together to make the kitchen a fun place to be .
Doing these things together is very bonding and sends the message that looking after yourself is important.
” Meal prep can be enjoyable and even relaxing in a calm environment .
For Baron , organization is key .
She advises , “ Having all the ingredients you need and working @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the experience rewarding.
” The smallest of kitchens can be abundant and organized with the help of a little innovation .
A simple bookcase can offer additional shelf space for dry goods , bowls of produce or favorite cups .
A small end table can hold a favorite tea pot and a jar of gourmet dark chocolate .
A beautiful basket can hold go-to spice jars , and a pretty pitcher near the stove can accommodate a multitude of cooking utensils .
“ If you can ’ t fit it all out of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ glass jars , fill them with grains , flours and legumes and line them up on the countertop .
It will be neat , and you can see what you have , ” suggests Larkin .
In the end , a well-nourished body and spirit fosters a beautiful life and inspires the same in others .
An advocate for supporting the hungry in all communities , Kabatznick underscores local efforts and seeing the big picture of our relationship with food : “ Taking out the garbage and cleaning up is also a sacred @ @ @ @ @ @ @ it .
Food connects us to the Earth , the moon and the stars .
From the seed to the truck driver—everything and everyone involved—the process of food is miraculous.
” Yields : 4 servings 4 cups water 1½ cup red lentils 1 tsp sea salt 1 medium-size organic carrot , chopped in bite-size pieces 2 soft , dried apricots , chopped , or 1 Tbsp golden raisins or 2 dates , chopped ¼ tsp ground cloves ¼ tsp ground turmeric ¼ tsp ground coriander seeds or ½ tsp crushed coriander seeds ½ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ pepper 1 tsp smoked paprika 1 tsp crushed or ground cumin seeds 2 tsp extra-virgin , cold-pressed olive oil Bring water , carrots , apricots and all spices and seasonings to boil .
Add red lentils , stir once and set heat to low .
Cover pot with lid .
Cook for 20 to 25 minutes , remove from heat .
Add olive oil and allow to sit for five minutes before serving .
Optional toppings for each bowl : finely chopped red onion , red pepper flakes , fresh cilantro and/or a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or green leaf lettuce 8 medium-large organic strawberries , thinly sliced , or 2 small packages of fresh organic raspberries Handful of fresh , chemical-free flowers from the garden or store ’ s produce section : nasturtium , pansies and/or calendulas ; gathered wild : spring violets and dandelion blooms In-the-Bowl Dressing : Juice from one fresh tangerine 1 part organic apple cider vinegar to 2 parts avocado oil Dash of sea salt Add avocado oil , apple cider vinegar and salt into a large bowl , swirl around twice .
Tear ( @ @ @ @ @ @ @ add to the preliminary dressing .
Squeeze tangerine juice over lettuce and toss lightly until well-dressed .
Place strawberry slices over salad .
Sprinkle ( don ’ t toss ) flowers on top or artfully place where desired .
Serve immediately .
½ cup organic whole-wheat flour , sifted ( protein-rich , gluten-free option : 1 cup organic brown rice flour and ½ cup organic soy flour or 1 cup organic brown rice flour and ½ cup garbanzo flour ) ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder ½ cup coconut sugar , evaporated cane juice @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fresh baking powder 1 cup water or unsweetened non-dairy milk ( or half of each to make a cup ) 2 tsp extra-virgin , cold-pressed olive oil or cold-pressed sunflower oil 2 organic eggs , beaten ( for vegan option : ¼ to ½ cup unsweetened apple sauce ) 2 tsp natural vanilla extract 1½ mashed ripe bananas 2 tsp molasses 1 tsp ground cinnamon ¼ tsp cloves ¼ tsp dried ginger 2 dashes of nutmeg 1 dash of allspice ( optional ) Pre-heat oven to 400° F and grease muffin tin with @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with cupcake papers ) .
Sift flour and cocoa powder into bowl .
Add baking powder , salt , sugar and spices ; mix well .
Combine water/milk , vanilla , molasses , oil and eggs ( or apple sauce ) , and add to dry mixture .
Stir , lifting the spoon high with each stirring to get air into the mixture .
Do not beat or overmix .
Leave it a bit lumpy .
Fold in bananas .
Fill muffin cups half to three-quarters full and bake for 25 to 30 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ clean .
Place muffin tin on wire rack and allow to cool for 15 minutes before removing each muffin by hand ( avoid turning tin over to get muffins out , or the extra-moist , fruit-filled muffins might come apart ) .
Optional treat : Dip muffin tops into melted coconut oil and roll in coconut sugar or turbinado .
Add a sprinkle of cinnamon .
In our busy lives , grabbing food on the run or eating while standing at the kitchen counter is often the norm .
Designating the kitchen as @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of food not only makes it more conducive to maintaining a healthy lifestyle , but also gives our spirits much-needed satiety .

“If we don’t touch the transcendent—emotionally and spiritually—physical nourishment won’t fill us up,” says Ronna Kabatznick, Ph.D., former psychological consultant to Weight Watchers International and the author of The Zen of Eating: Ancient Answers to Modern Weight Problems. “Seeing the kitchen as sacred is something that represents gratitude, beauty and blessings.”
Delia Baron, co-author of Better Together Kitchen: Beautiful Recipes to Share With People You Love and the host of seasonal food workshops with partner Ronnit Hoppe in Melbourne, Australia, concurs, “The kitchen is often the heartbeat of the home and the best place to gather, feast, chat and create beautiful memories and rituals. The kitchen is also a place to connect to our food source.”
Fun and Felicity
Preparing meals the old-fashioned way can slow us down and foster mindfulness, but Kabatznick emphasizes that cooking is irrelevant. “Look at the kitchen in terms of possibilities: ‘What can I create in this space?’ You don’t have to turn into Julia Child,” she says, adding, “You could be eating Chinese takeout or a prune; it’s all about mindset and simple rituals like saying a blessing, appreciating what we eat as a great gift.” Kabatznick encourages everyone to eat with dignity, and this includes using the good dishes, putting fresh flowers on the table and eating with awareness.
Ancient Wisdom for Balanced Living, in Corrales, New Mexico. “Turn off the TV and give everyone in the family a job. Laugh throughout the meal preparation. Dance as you cook. Do the same thing if you live alone.”
Seeing the kitchen as the inspired nucleus of the home, it’s natural to add favorite items like art prints, colorful jars, sentimental treasures, dried flowers and other seasonal delights to nourish daily contentment. Conjuring an element of joy adorns the mundane. “Put on some music to put you in either a peaceful or joyful mood,” says Molly Larkin , author, healing practitioner and blogger at, in Corrales, New Mexico. “Turn off the TV and give everyone in the family a job. Laugh throughout the meal preparation. Dance as you cook. Do the same thing if you live alone.”
Preparing food, whether a healthy smoothie or a gourmet weekend dinner for two, is a way to express love for ourselves and others. Baron loves the presence of plants, lovely ceramics and interesting platters and dishes, and notes, “Families can definitely shop, chop, cook and meal-plan together to make the kitchen a fun place to be. Doing these things together is very bonding and sends the message that looking after yourself is important.”
Practical Magic
Meal prep can be enjoyable and even relaxing in a calm environment. For Baron, organization is key. She advises, “Having all the ingredients you need and working in a clean space also helps make the experience rewarding.”
The smallest of kitchens can be abundant and organized with the help of a little innovation. A simple bookcase can offer additional shelf space for dry goods, bowls of produce or favorite cups. A small end table can hold a favorite tea pot and a jar of gourmet dark chocolate. A beautiful basket can hold go-to spice jars, and a pretty pitcher near the stove can accommodate a multitude of cooking utensils. “If you can’t fit it all out of sight in a cabinet, get some glass jars, fill them with grains, flours and legumes and line them up on the countertop. It will be neat, and you can see what you have,” suggests Larkin.
In the end, a well-nourished body and spirit fosters a beautiful life and inspires the same in others. An advocate for supporting the hungry in all communities, Kabatznick underscores local efforts and seeing the big picture of our relationship with food: “Taking out the garbage and cleaning up is also a sacred act if we bring that attitude into it. Food connects us to the Earth, the moon and the stars. From the seed to the truck driver—everything and everyone involved—the process of food is miraculous.”
SACRED SERVINGS
Moroccan-Spiced Red Lentil Soup
photo by Marlaina Donato
Yields: 4 servings
4 cups water
1½ cup red lentils
1 tsp sea salt
1 medium-size organic carrot, chopped in bite-size pieces
2 soft, dried apricots, chopped, or 1 Tbsp golden raisins or 2 dates, chopped
¼ tsp ground cloves
¼ tsp ground turmeric
¼ tsp ground coriander seeds or ½ tsp crushed coriander seeds
½ tsp cinnamon
½ tsp coarsely ground black pepper
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp crushed or ground cumin seeds
2 tsp extra-virgin, cold-pressed olive oil
Bring water, carrots, apricots and all spices and seasonings to boil. Add red lentils, stir once and set heat to low. Cover pot with lid. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, remove from heat. Add olive oil and allow to sit for five minutes before serving.
Optional toppings for each bowl: finely chopped red onion, red pepper flakes, fresh cilantro and/or a sprinkle of turmeric.
Spring Fever Salad with Flowers and Fruit
photo by Marlaina Donato
Yields: 4 servings
1 head romaine or green leaf lettuce
8 medium-large organic strawberries, thinly sliced, or 2 small packages of fresh organic raspberries
Handful of fresh, chemical-free flowers from the garden or store’s produce section: nasturtium, pansies and/or calendulas; gathered wild: spring violets and dandelion blooms
In-the-Bowl Dressing:
Juice from one fresh tangerine
1 part organic apple cider vinegar to 2 parts avocado oil
Dash of sea salt
Add avocado oil, apple cider vinegar and salt into a large bowl, swirl around twice. Tear (don’t chop) lettuce and add to the preliminary dressing. Squeeze tangerine juice over lettuce and toss lightly until well-dressed. Place strawberry slices over salad. Sprinkle (don’t toss) flowers on top or artfully place where desired. Serve immediately.
Whole-Grain Dark Chocolate-Banana Muffins
MIKHAIL MAKOVKIN/Shutterstock.com
Yields: 12 muffins
1½ cup organic whole-wheat flour, sifted (protein-rich, gluten-free option: 1 cup organic brown rice flour and ½ cup organic soy flour or 1 cup organic brown rice flour and ½ cup garbanzo flour)
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
½ cup coconut sugar, evaporated cane juice or turbinado
½ tsp salt
3½ tsp fresh baking powder
1 cup water or unsweetened non-dairy milk (or half of each to make a cup)
2 tsp extra-virgin, cold-pressed olive oil or cold-pressed sunflower oil
2 organic eggs, beaten (for vegan option: ¼ to ½ cup unsweetened apple sauce)
2 tsp natural vanilla extract
1½ mashed ripe bananas
2 tsp molasses
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp cloves
¼ tsp dried ginger
2 dashes of nutmeg
1 dash of allspice (optional)
Pre-heat oven to 400° F and grease muffin tin with sunflower or olive oil (or line with cupcake papers). Sift flour and cocoa powder into bowl. Add baking powder, salt, sugar and spices; mix well. Combine water/milk, vanilla, molasses, oil and eggs (or apple sauce), and add to dry mixture. Stir, lifting the spoon high with each stirring to get air into the mixture. Do not beat or overmix. Leave it a bit lumpy.
Fold in bananas. Fill muffin cups half to three-quarters full and bake for 25 to 30 minutes or until wooden toothpick comes out clean. Place muffin tin on wire rack and allow to cool for 15 minutes before removing each muffin by hand (avoid turning tin over to get muffins out, or the extra-moist, fruit-filled muffins might come apart).
Optional treat: Dip muffin tops into melted coconut oil and roll in coconut sugar or turbinado. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Recipes by Marlaina Donato, author of several books and a composer.
In our busy lives, grabbing food on the run or eating while standing at the kitchen counter is often the norm. Designating the kitchen as a practical sanctuary and seeing the sacredness of food not only makes it more conducive to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, but also gives our spirits much-needed satiety.


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-04-27--Dancing To Your Own Drummer: The Healing Power of Movement

Valerie Durham , a modern dancer in Baltimore specializing in the Isadora Duncan technique , concurs , “ Birds don ’ t consider if they have talent for singing , they just sing .
They sing because they have a voice .
Similarly , dance is a right offered to anyone with a body.
” Going dancing on a Friday night also proves to nourish the brain .
A 2017 study published in Frontiers of Aging Neuroscience shows evidence that dance increases white matter that diminishes with cognitive decline .
An older study sponsored by the Albert Einstein College of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Journal of Medicine spotlights data gathered during a 21-year period and reveals that regular social dancing can reduce the risk for dementia in seniors by 76 percent .
“ A number of peer-reviewed research studies point to dance ’ s ability to improve motor skills and function of people living with Parkinson ’ s disease—balance , gait and tremor .
Dance is expressive , giving people a creative voice when it feels that their capacity for physical , vocal and facial expression is being taken away , ” says Leventhal .
Durham , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of Florida Shands Hospital Arts in Medicine Program in the 1990s , witnessed memorable responses from cancer patients .
“ We danced with patients who were attached to IVs and those even in the ICU , some who were partially or even completely paralyzed , people who maybe could dance only with their eyes .
And yet they danced , ” marvels Durham .
“ Getting the lymphatic system , endorphins and breath flowing all elevate the body out of pain mode.
” “ There ’ s a vast movement in the dance @ @ @ @ @ @ @ performance , but rather , is done for the joy of inhabiting a body in motion .
Ecstatic dance is a free-form conscious dance and is a vibrant global community for people who love music and movement , ” says Donna Carroll , founder of Ecstatic Dance International , in San Francisco .
“ When we can be courageous enough to turn away from our cultural norms that say you need ‘ talent ’ to dance , we get a chance to experience music through our bodies , and it can be quite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ one of the most effective methods to return to what matters , to our bodies , to our ‘ home ’ , and is accessible for people of all abilities.
” In her artistic sphere of performance art , Durham has seen her students blossom from the inside-out .
“ They are able to connect with the deep wisdom in their bodies , thereby releasing old energetic wounds .
Depression and anxiety are relieved during dance because you are so consciously consumed with the present moment of the steps and the music .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ joyful and at peace at the end of a dance session.
” For Leventhal , moving the body is a blessing for all : “ Dance should be accessible and enjoyable to everyone , regardless of physical or cognitive challenges.
” Movement comes in many colors , from modern dance to country line dancing , and there ’ s something for everyone , including those that claim to have two left feet .
Dancing is healthy for the heart and improves cognitive function by forging new neural pathways in the brain .
It @ @ @ @ @ @ @ improves flexibility and endurance .
Putting on dancing shoes also has a positive effect on depressive disorders , flooding the brain with endorphins that uplift mood and jumpstart motivation .
Dance has found its way into the clinical setting as a psychotherapeutic tool for healing trauma , eating disorders and addictions.All forms of dancing have the capability to free the spirit and heal deep emotional wounds buried in the memory-holding fascia of the body ’ s soft tissues .
Ecstatic dance , which has roots in ancient spiritual practices , is an unstructured @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
These days , ecstatic dance gatherings have been organized in cities around the world .

Dancing, in essence, is for everyone. “Dance is a human right, a feature of almost every culture in the world, and our natural inclination to dance is one of the things that makes us human,” says David Leventhal, program director of Dance for PD , a nonprofit Parkinson’s Disease program of the Mark Morris Dance Group, in Brooklyn.
Valerie Durham, a modern dancer in Baltimore specializing in the Isadora Duncan technique, concurs, “Birds don’t consider if they have talent for singing, they just sing. They sing because they have a voice. Similarly, dance is a right offered to anyone with a body.”
A Deterrent for Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s Disease and Cancer
Going dancing on a Friday night also proves to nourish the brain. A 2017 study published in Frontiers of Aging Neuroscience shows evidence that dance increases white matter that diminishes with cognitive decline. An older study sponsored by the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and published in the New England Journal of Medicine spotlights data gathered during a 21-year period and reveals that regular social dancing can reduce the risk for dementia in seniors by 76 percent.
“A number of peer-reviewed research studies point to dance’s ability to improve motor skills and function of people living with Parkinson’s disease—balance, gait and tremor. Dance is expressive, giving people a creative voice when it feels that their capacity for physical, vocal and facial expression is being taken away,” says Leventhal.
Durham, who worked with patients at the University of Florida Shands Hospital Arts in Medicine Program in the 1990s, witnessed memorable responses from cancer patients. “We danced with patients who were attached to IVs and those even in the ICU, some who were partially or even completely paralyzed, people who maybe could dance only with their eyes. And yet they danced,” marvels Durham. “Getting the lymphatic system, endorphins and breath flowing all elevate the body out of pain mode.”
Dancing from the Soul
“There’s a vast movement in the dance world that has nothing to do with performance, but rather, is done for the joy of inhabiting a body in motion. Ecstatic dance is a free-form conscious dance and is a vibrant global community for people who love music and movement,” says Donna Carroll, founder of Ecstatic Dance International , in San Francisco. “When we can be courageous enough to turn away from our cultural norms that say you need ‘talent’ to dance, we get a chance to experience music through our bodies, and it can be quite pleasurable and life-affirming. Ecstatic dance is one of the most effective methods to return to what matters, to our bodies, to our ‘home’, and is accessible for people of all abilities.”
In her artistic sphere of performance art, Durham has seen her students blossom from the inside-out. “They are able to connect with the deep wisdom in their bodies, thereby releasing old energetic wounds. Depression and anxiety are relieved during dance because you are so consciously consumed with the present moment of the steps and the music. Dancers will find that they feel more joyful and at peace at the end of a dance session.”
For Leventhal, moving the body is a blessing for all: “Dance should be accessible and enjoyable to everyone, regardless of physical or cognitive challenges.”
Marlaina Donato is an author, composer and painter.
Movement comes in many colors, from modern dance to country line dancing, and there’s something for everyone, including those that claim to have two left feet. Dancing is healthy for the heart and improves cognitive function by forging new neural pathways in the brain. It builds stronger bones, helps balance and improves flexibility and endurance. Putting on dancing shoes also has a positive effect on depressive disorders, flooding the brain with endorphins that uplift mood and jumpstart motivation. Dance has found its way into the clinical setting as a psychotherapeutic tool for healing trauma, eating disorders and addictions.All forms of dancing have the capability to free the spirit and heal deep emotional wounds buried in the memory-holding fascia of the body’s soft tissues. Ecstatic dance, which has roots in ancient spiritual practices, is an unstructured option that dilutes limiting, self-conscious habits. These days, ecstatic dance gatherings have been organized in cities around the world.


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-04-27--Jonathan Safran Foer on Conscious Eating to Save the Planet

He points out that there ’ s often a painful disconnect between the way we think of ourselves and the actions that we take that inadvertently and negatively affect the planet , and that science can help us make more informed choices .
For anybody who has even the tiniest amount of curiosity about human interaction with the climate , it ’ s something you can ’ t possibly avoid learning about .
The science is readily available now , and it ’ s extremely comprehensive .
It ’ s important to continuously come back to that scientific consensus to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s theory or perspective .
Ninety-seven percent of climate scientists agree .
There ’ s a lot that startled me .
A lot that scared me .
I was surprised by how wrong we have been and how wrong we often are about what matters… putting the emphasis in the wrong places or not knowing where to put it at all .
There are four activities that matter more than all others in terms of an individual ’ s relationship with the environment : having fewer children , eating less meat or animal @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
As somebody who has spent a lot of time recycling and not using plastic straws , I was surprised to learn that those activities are very low impact compared to the four I mentioned .
I was surprised by how broad that misunderstanding is .
Think about our response to coronavirus compared to our response to climate change .
The way governments are acting together to do what needs to be done for a virus makes it all the more puzzling how ineffectual the response to climate change is .
If people @ @ @ @ @ @ @ to be done , what small steps can they take that will have a collective impact ?
Why is it such a struggle for people to follow through on climate change goals ?
Climate change requires a different sort of moral imagination because , realistically , you and I aren ’ t going to die because of it .
Human nature makes it more difficult to have an energetic response for something less immediate .
We have a feeling of helplessness , a feeling that there ’ s nothing we can do , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can do and must do .
The easiest and most powerful way to begin is with what we eat .
That doesn ’ t mean you become vegan tomorrow , but tomorrow is a wonderful time to start eating fewer animal products .
It ’ s a journey , not an event .
Jonathan Safran Foer , the prize-winning author of bestselling novels that includeand , turned to nonfiction in his 2009 book , , about the morality of food choices in a factory-farm age .
His most recent book , , argues @ @ @ @ @ @ @ home and way of life , and it starts with what is on our plate.We all need to question what our own limits are , what we can do and then do that with rigor .
We don ’ t need to stop flying , we just need to do it a lot less .
I wouldn ’ t encourage anyone to suddenly become vegan .
I think a better idea is to eat as few animal products as possible , and if that amount is zero , great .
If it ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ day , then that ’ s a hell of a lot better than doing nothing .
Rather than measuring the distance from some ethical perfection , we want to measure the distance from doing nothing at all.I think that if we approach change as if it isn ’ t difficult , then we diminish our chances of being able to sustain change .
A lot of the things we need to give up are fun .
It ’ s a shame we can ’ t solve climate change by not eating broccoli ; @ @ @ @ @ @ @

He points out that there’s often a painful disconnect between the way we think of ourselves and the actions that we take that inadvertently and negatively affect the planet, and that science can help us make more informed choices.
For anybody who has even the tiniest amount of curiosity about human interaction with the climate, it’s something you can’t possibly avoid learning about. The science is readily available now, and it’s extremely comprehensive. It’s important to continuously come back to that scientific consensus to make clear that this is nobody’s theory or perspective. Ninety-seven percent of climate scientists agree.
There’s a lot that startled me. A lot that scared me. I was surprised by how wrong we have been and how wrong we often are about what matters… putting the emphasis in the wrong places or not knowing where to put it at all.
There are four activities that matter more than all others in terms of an individual’s relationship with the environment: having fewer children, eating less meat or animal products, flying less and driving less.
As somebody who has spent a lot of time recycling and not using plastic straws, I was surprised to learn that those activities are very low impact compared to the four I mentioned. I was surprised by how broad that misunderstanding is. Think about our response to coronavirus compared to our response to climate change. The way governments are acting together to do what needs to be done for a virus makes it all the more puzzling how ineffectual the response to climate change is.
If people can’t do everything that needs to be done, what small steps can they take that will have a collective impact?
Why is it such a struggle for people to follow through on climate change goals?
Climate change requires a different sort of moral imagination because, realistically, you and I aren’t going to die because of it. Human nature makes it more difficult to have an energetic response for something less immediate.
We have a feeling of helplessness, a feeling that there’s nothing we can do, but there is a lot that we can do and must do. The easiest and most powerful way to begin is with what we eat. That doesn’t mean you become vegan tomorrow, but tomorrow is a wonderful time to start eating fewer animal products. It’s a journey, not an event.
Jonathan Safran Foer, the prize-winning author of bestselling novels that includeand, turned to nonfiction in his 2009 book,, about the morality of food choices in a factory-farm age. His most recent book,, argues that only collective action will save our home and way of life, and it starts with what is on our plate.We all need to question what our own limits are, what we can do and then do that with rigor. We don’t need to stop flying, we just need to do it a lot less. I wouldn’t encourage anyone to suddenly become vegan. I think a better idea is to eat as few animal products as possible, and if that amount is zero, great. If it’s once a week or once a day, then that’s a hell of a lot better than doing nothing. Rather than measuring the distance from some ethical perfection, we want to measure the distance from doing nothing at all.I think that if we approach change as if it isn’t difficult, then we diminish our chances of being able to sustain change. A lot of the things we need to give up are fun. It’s a shame we can’t solve climate change by not eating broccoli; we would have done it already.


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-04-27--Flower Wow-er: Beautiful Floral Designing

Like a good meal , the ingredients of a bouquet are as important as how they are assembled .
Start with organic , pesticide-free buds .
“ Look for local , seasonal flowers , which will be fresher and last longer than those flown in , ” says Betty Ann Galway , a certified floral designer and instructor at the Norfolk Botanical Garden , in Virginia .
Farmers ’ markets , community supported agriculture CSAs and pick-your-own farms are all great places to find locally , sustainably grown flowers , according to Jentz .
To select for long shelf life @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , and firm heads on flowers .
Mums , carnations and asters will last up to three weeks , says Galway .
Prepping the flowers before arranging will also prolong an arrangement ’ s longevity , including cutting stems diagonally to provide more surface area for water , suggests Jentz .
She also recommends plunging flowers into cool water immediately after trimming their stems .
Leaves pump water up the stem , so leave a few on while clearing those from the bottom that would otherwise be submerged in water , adds Galway @ @ @ @ @ @ @ structure for an arrangement , most of which is often hidden .
Wilber stuffs chicken wire into an opaque container and then tapes down the top with a grid of floral tape to provide more control over the direction of the stems .
Ha uses floral foam , soaked to provide hydration , into which stems can be inserted at any angle to create a gravity-defying design .
Different styles of arranging draw from different principles , but many common rules of thumb apply ; for example , using odd numbers of each @ @ @ @ @ @ @ largest flowers first to create an anchor for the composition .
For a rustic , farm-to-table bouquet , look beyond just blooms to incorporate seed pods , grasses and other foliage from the backyard or woods , says Wilber .
These will not only fill in gaps left by thin-stemmed flowers , but also help create contrast in texture , she adds , recommending that 70 percent of the container be green .
Once the design is complete , fine-tune the arrangement by stepping back to see the big-picture look and making any @ @ @ @ @ @ @ greenery to any bald spots , says Wilber .
Many designers wrap large , flat leaves around the inside of a container for a clean , polished look that hides the stems .
Most importantly , don ’ t forget to stop and smell the lilacs .
Let the flowers lead the design and let go of any unattainable vision of perfection .
“ Appreciating the flowers and being thankful is an important part of the process , too , ” says Ha .
A healthy , professional-looking bouquet doesn ’ t take @ @ @ @ @ @ @ these tricks of the trade will help neophyte designers get started .
To loosen up tightly wound buds , breathe on them .
Hot breath will open buds up faster , says publisher and arranger Kathy Jentz .
An arranging technique Jentz recommends is clustering blossoms between the index finger and thumb of the less-dominant hand , resulting in a tight arrangement that can be held in place by a rubber band pulled up to the tops of the stems .
If working with hydrangeas or other flowers with woody stems , smash @ @ @ @ @ @ @ get more water circulation .
Consider upcycling common containers to make flower vases , Jentz says .
“ You can create recycled vases out of old jars and bottles , or use chalk paint to colorfully cover over a tin can.
” The secret sauce in flower food is simply sugar and citric acid , says Jentz , so a little lemonade mix added to the water of an arrangement will work fine in a pinch .
Fresh-cut flowers can elevate a space with color , scents and textures that draw the eye @ @ @ @ @ @ @ can be pricey .
DIY arranging , however , is an easy , fun and inexpensive creative outlet that can also help cultivate mindfulness .
Flower arranging is more than just a decorative art ; it ’ s a spiritual activity that helps create a kinship with nature and merge the indoors and outdoors .

Ikebana, the Japanese art of flower arranging, dates back to the seventh century, when floral offerings were made at Buddhist altars, according to Jeanne Ha, owner of the Washington Flower School , in Takoma Park, Maryland. In the 16th century, Japanese samurais practiced flower arranging prior to combat to help calm them and stay centered, a stress-reducing activity most of us can benefit from today. “Seasonal flowers are an important element of Ikebana,” says Ha, part of a longstanding Japanese tradition of appreciating plants and flowers throughout the four seasons.
Finding a Floral Style
As with any artistic medium, creative choices are important in floral arranging. We can opt for a fussy, formal style, a rustic farmhouse look or a modern, asymmetrical design. “The good news is you can’t mess up flowers. Whether multidimensional or one-sided, monochromatic or multicolored, you really can’t go wrong,” says Kathy Jentz, publisher of Washington Gardener Magazine and a flower arranging instructor in Silver Spring, Maryland.
Like a good meal, the ingredients of a bouquet are as important as how they are assembled. Start with organic, pesticide-free buds. “Look for local, seasonal flowers, which will be fresher and last longer than those flown in,” says Betty Ann Galway, a certified floral designer and instructor at the Norfolk Botanical Garden, in Virginia. Farmers’ markets, community supported agriculture CSAs and pick-your-own farms are all great places to find locally, sustainably grown flowers, according to Jentz. To select for long shelf life, look for fresh-looking stamens and foliage, and firm heads on flowers. Mums, carnations and asters will last up to three weeks, says Galway.
When selecting flowers, Ami Wilber, floral and event décor designer at the Washington, D.C., Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens , recommends starting with a color scheme, whether limiting the palette to one or two colors, using analogous colors like pinks and purples or selecting complementary colors like blues and oranges. “It’s also good to find a focal flower or a show-stopper that will immediately draw attention to a bouquet,” says Wilber.
Prepping the flowers before arranging will also prolong an arrangement’s longevity, including cutting stems diagonally to provide more surface area for water, suggests Jentz. She also recommends plunging flowers into cool water immediately after trimming their stems. Leaves pump water up the stem, so leave a few on while clearing those from the bottom that would otherwise be submerged in water, adds Galway.
There are many ways to create structure for an arrangement, most of which is often hidden. Wilber stuffs chicken wire into an opaque container and then tapes down the top with a grid of floral tape to provide more control over the direction of the stems. Ha uses floral foam, soaked to provide hydration, into which stems can be inserted at any angle to create a gravity-defying design.
Different styles of arranging draw from different principles, but many common rules of thumb apply; for example, using odd numbers of each type of flower and adding in the largest flowers first to create an anchor for the composition. For a rustic, farm-to-table bouquet, look beyond just blooms to incorporate seed pods, grasses and other foliage from the backyard or woods, says Wilber. These will not only fill in gaps left by thin-stemmed flowers, but also help create contrast in texture, she adds, recommending that 70 percent of the container be green.
Once the design is complete, fine-tune the arrangement by stepping back to see the big-picture look and making any adjustments, removing discolored leaves and adding greenery to any bald spots, says Wilber. Many designers wrap large, flat leaves around the inside of a container for a clean, polished look that hides the stems.
Most importantly, don’t forget to stop and smell the lilacs. Let the flowers lead the design and let go of any unattainable vision of perfection. “Appreciating the flowers and being thankful is an important part of the process, too,” says Ha.
Flower Arranging Tips From a Pro
Daria_Cherry/Shutterstock.com
A healthy, professional-looking bouquet doesn’t take years of flower designing to achieve; these tricks of the trade will help neophyte designers get started.
To loosen up tightly wound buds, breathe on them. Hot breath will open buds up faster, says publisher and arranger Kathy Jentz.
An arranging technique Jentz recommends is clustering blossoms between the index finger and thumb of the less-dominant hand, resulting in a tight arrangement that can be held in place by a rubber band pulled up to the tops of the stems.
If working with hydrangeas or other flowers with woody stems, smash open the stems along the length to get more water circulation.
Consider upcycling common containers to make flower vases, Jentz says. “You can create recycled vases out of old jars and bottles, or use chalk paint to colorfully cover over a tin can.”
The secret sauce in flower food is simply sugar and citric acid, says Jentz, so a little lemonade mix added to the water of an arrangement will work fine in a pinch.
Fresh-cut flowers can elevate a space with color, scents and textures that draw the eye and nose, but professional floral designs can be pricey. DIY arranging, however, is an easy, fun and inexpensive creative outlet that can also help cultivate mindfulness. Flower arranging is more than just a decorative art; it’s a spiritual activity that helps create a kinship with nature and merge the indoors and outdoors.


naturalawakeningsmagazine--2020-04-27--Eye Care for Kids: A Clear Path to Healthy Vision

Ophthalmologists and optometrists recommend having a child ’ s eyes tested at 6 months , 3 years and 5 or 6 years to detect nearsightedness , farsightedness , astigmatism , “ lazy eye ” ( amblyopia ) , crossed or misaligned eyes ( strabismus ) and other potential problems .
“ For signs of trouble , I ask parents if they have seen their child have an eye that wanders or if the child covers an eye regularly , they are rubbing their eyes or playing with their toys close to their face , ” says optometrist Nathan Langemo , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Hopkins , Minnesota .
If myopia becomes severe , it can lead to retinal detachment , premature cataracts and glaucoma in adulthood , but early detection is possible .
An Ohio State University study of 4,500 children found that myopia in eighth-graders could be predicted in the first grade by their eyeglass prescription .
Children at age 6 are naturally slightly farsighted , and those with normal vision are more likely to become myopic later .
A common medical treatment to slow myopia in kids is daily use of 0.01 percent atropine eye @ @ @ @ @ @ @ an eye before an exam .
It slowed down nearsightedness by roughly 50 percent in Singapore children .
A new , two-year study shows that combining the eye drops with nightly contact lens-wearing is 28 to 38 percent more effective .
For preschoolers with amblyopia , an iPad game called Dig Rush was shown to be helpful in a University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center study .
Hong Kong researchers report that 15 weeks of acupuncture beat out eye patches for treating children with lazy eyes , resolving the condition in 41 percent @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The simplest preventive strategy for myopia may be simply to shoo children outdoors every day , including involving them in outdoor sports .
Researchers aren ’ t sure whether it ’ s the vitamin D effect or the fact that when they are outdoors kids focus more on distant objects like trees and balls than when reading a book or screen , but recent studies in Taiwan and Denmark have verified that more time outdoors is linked to less myopia .
Even sitting in sunlight inside while reading or using full-spectrum light @ @ @ @ @ @ @ When outdoors , “ Make sure the child has 100 percent UVA and UVB sun protection for the eyes , ” advises Langemo , including using UV contact lenses .
Evidence is mixed on whether close-up reading brings on childhood myopia , but a study of 500 college students that heavily used computers found 53 percent reporting headaches , 55 percent with burning sensations in the eyes and 48 percent with tired eyes .
When kids focus on a computer , their eye-refreshing blinking rate slows from 10 to 12 times a minute @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , says optometrist Marc Grossman , of New Paltz , New York , author of Natural Eye Care : Your Guide To Healthy Vision and Healing He recommends taking breaks at least 10 minutes every hour , using homeopathic eye drops and gently massaging the eyes by moving fingers from the inner corner , around the upper socket and underneath , stopping about six times to massage each point for five to 10 seconds .
It ’ s also important to remove household hazards .
Medical emergency rooms increasingly report eye injuries in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , BB guns and paintball guns , as well as colorful detergent pods that preschoolers love to squeeze or bite , plus aerosol spray from paint , hairspray , cleaning products and bug repellants .
Feeding children the right foods , including lots of vegetables , fruits and grains , also benefits their eyes .
The omega-3s in fish oil , nuts and seeds help minimize dry eye , and leafy greens and eggs have the eye-protective antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin .
The blurry distant vision of myopia is a worldwide epidemic .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ 1971 to 42 percent , and in some Asian countries it affects 90 percent of teens and adults , reports the American Academy of Ophthalmology .
Eye doctors say the key time to pay attention is during childhood , because myopia and other eye and vision problems can be reversed or stabilized if addressed at an early age .

“Parents tend to assume that vision problems aren’t a concern for the young and healthy, but it’s never too early to promote healthful habits or to be on the lookout for potential vision issues,” advises ophthalmologist Sandy T. Feldman, M.D. , medical director of the Clearview Eye & Laser Medical Center, in San Diego.
Ophthalmologists and optometrists recommend having a child’s eyes tested at 6 months, 3 years and 5 or 6 years to detect nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, “lazy eye” (amblyopia), crossed or misaligned eyes (strabismus) and other potential problems. “For signs of trouble, I ask parents if they have seen their child have an eye that wanders or if the child covers an eye regularly, they are rubbing their eyes or playing with their toys close to their face,” says optometrist Nathan Langemo , of the Hopkins Eye Clinic, in Hopkins, Minnesota.
If myopia becomes severe, it can lead to retinal detachment, premature cataracts and glaucoma in adulthood, but early detection is possible. An Ohio State University study of 4,500 children found that myopia in eighth-graders could be predicted in the first grade by their eyeglass prescription. Children at age 6 are naturally slightly farsighted, and those with normal vision are more likely to become myopic later.
A common medical treatment to slow myopia in kids is daily use of 0.01 percent atropine eye drops, the medication used to dilate an eye before an exam. It slowed down nearsightedness by roughly 50 percent in Singapore children. A new, two-year study shows that combining the eye drops with nightly contact lens-wearing is 28 to 38 percent more effective. For preschoolers with amblyopia, an iPad game called Dig Rush was shown to be helpful in a University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center study. Hong Kong researchers report that 15 weeks of acupuncture beat out eye patches for treating children with lazy eyes, resolving the condition in 41 percent of cases, compared to 16 percent.
The simplest preventive strategy for myopia may be simply to shoo children outdoors every day, including involving them in outdoor sports. Researchers aren’t sure whether it’s the vitamin D effect or the fact that when they are outdoors kids focus more on distant objects like trees and balls than when reading a book or screen, but recent studies in Taiwan and Denmark have verified that more time outdoors is linked to less myopia. Even sitting in sunlight inside while reading or using full-spectrum light bulbs is protective, say researchers. When outdoors, “Make sure the child has 100 percent UVA and UVB sun protection for the eyes,” advises Langemo, including using UV contact lenses.
Evidence is mixed on whether close-up reading brings on childhood myopia, but a study of 500 college students that heavily used computers found 53 percent reporting headaches, 55 percent with burning sensations in the eyes and 48 percent with tired eyes. When kids focus on a computer, their eye-refreshing blinking rate slows from 10 to 12 times a minute to three or four times a minute, says optometrist Marc Grossman, of New Paltz, New York, author of Natural Eye Care: Your Guide To Healthy Vision and Healing
He recommends taking breaks at least 10 minutes every hour, using homeopathic eye drops and gently massaging the eyes by moving fingers from the inner corner, around the upper socket and underneath, stopping about six times to massage each point for five to 10 seconds.
It’s also important to remove household hazards. Medical emergency rooms increasingly report eye injuries in kids from popular toy weapons like Nerf, BB guns and paintball guns, as well as colorful detergent pods that preschoolers love to squeeze or bite, plus aerosol spray from paint, hairspray, cleaning products and bug repellants.
Feeding children the right foods, including lots of vegetables, fruits and grains, also benefits their eyes. The omega-3s in fish oil, nuts and seeds help minimize dry eye, and leafy greens and eggs have the eye-protective antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin.
The blurry distant vision of myopia is a worldwide epidemic. Nearsightedness has doubled in the U.S. since 1971 to 42 percent, and in some Asian countries it affects 90 percent of teens and adults, reports the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Eye doctors say the key time to pay attention is during childhood, because myopia and other eye and vision problems can be reversed or stabilized if addressed at an early age.