By Karen Smith In the mid to late 1990s my life took some interesting twists and turns, particularly as it related to my health. I was always rather thin, but I became thinner. My allergy symptoms were out of control—sneezing, runny nose, itching ears and swollen joints. I had problems digesting my food properly and eliminating on any consistent basis. Some days I was just MISERABLE! It was also during this time that I found a lump in my breast. Needless to say, this shook me because my thoughts immediately took me down the path that I possibly had cancer. The update some 20 plus years later is that I did not have cancer. The lump that I had in my breast went away. I rarely suffer with allergy symptoms or swollen joints. And my digestion and elimination has greatly improved. A number of changes took place in my life then. As I prayed for answers during that time, I believe that God sent one of the answers through an elderly lady who spoke to me about the benefits of AIM BarleyLife. She was consuming it at the time and she looked fabulous. I remember telling her that if I lived to be her age, I wanted to be and look as healthy and vibrant as she did. I took her advice and started using it and I never looked back. Because of its great nutritional profile, I continue to consume it to this day. What is AIM BarleyLife? AIM BarleyLife is an all-natural, green barley grass juice powder concentrate. It is harvested from young green barley grass leaves that are grown without the use of pesticides or herbicides. There are many barley grass products on the market today to choose from. Several are made from the powder of green barley leaves, while others take the juice of barley leaves and turn it into a powder. The latter method is preferred because it allows the nutrients to become more bioavailable. If you’re like me, once you find a great product, you don’t really feel compelled to try others. I have found this to be the case with AIM BarleyLife. AIM BarleyLife is an outstanding whole food that’s also an ideal “fast food”. You don’t usually find these two phrases used together—particularly when referring to a food that’s good for you. I emphasize that AIM BarleyLife is a whole food. This is not a product formulated in a laboratory, but one that’s grown and harvested from the Earth. It’s also a “fast food” because all you have to do is mix one rounded teaspoon with water or your favorite juice and you have a liquid meal, full of nutrition. It has consistently produced great results in my life and many others. By sharing some of its benefits, I hope that you are encouraged to give it a try to see what it can do for you. Around the 1960s, Dr. Yoshihide Hagiwara, a Japanese research pharmacologist, through a series of events focused his research on the juices of the green leaves of plants. It ultimately led him to the discovery of the health-promoting food extracted from the young leaves of barley. He found that it contained a wide spectrum of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, proteins, enzymes, chlorophyll, and phytonutrients. Why Barley Grass Juice? The fibrous material of grass can’t really be broken down by our digestive system. When chewed, we really can’t break down all the cells within the plant; so we don’t get much benefit from eating grass as is. Therefore, juicing becomes beneficial because it extracts the vital nutrients from the plant cells and putting it in a powder form makes it convenient for everyone. Barley Grass Juice— A Super Storehouse of Nutrients Chlorophyll There is an extraordinary similarity between chlorophyll in green leaves and human blood. The basic difference between the two pigments is that iron is the central element of hemoglobin, while magnesium is the central element of chlorophyll. Chlorophyll can be viewed as the green blood of plants. Chlorophyll is so similar to hemoglobin, that it has been studied for its potential in stimulating red blood cells. In addition, research study has found that chlorophyll reduces the absorption of some dietary carcinogens. It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps to remove carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide. This latter point is particularly of interest to me due to our current state of mask wearing. Although not publicly addressed through mainstream media, there is concern that the wearing of masks greatly increases carbon dioxide levels. If this is so, then chlorophyll-rich foods would certainly be beneficial to help minimize any harmful effects the increased carbon dioxide levels have in the body. Enzymes Many enzymes can be found in green barley leaves. Enzymes are the catalyst for the many chemical changes that take place in the living body. Without enzymes digestion would not be possible. The cessation of bleeding during an injury and the creation of new cells would also not be possible. Basically, without enzymes, all bodily functions would fail. A very important enzyme is superoxide dismutase (SOD), which has been measured in AIM BarleyLife. SOD is a powerful antioxidant that plays a major role in fighting free radical damage and inflammation. In addition, it also relieves arthritis symptoms, boosts skin health, and helps fight cancer. Vitamins Vitamins are important for health because they assist enzymes within the body, which promote metabolism. Vitamins are also important in helping the body to ward off diseases and other conditions. Minerals The balance and maintenance of minerals in our body is fundamental to health, with potassium, magnesium, and calcium being essential. We receive minerals into our body through the food we eat. A neglect of a proper intake of minerals will cause the body not to function with vitality. Proteins Although I eat meat, there are times when I may want to reduce my meat intake or completely go without it for a period of time. It is during these times, that I’m thankful for AIM BarleyLife because it provides a good source of protein molecules that are easy for the body to assimilate. Alkalinity (pH) So much of today’s foods is acid-forming in the body—particularly processed foods. The body works more efficiently when there is a healthy acid-alkaline balance. When this balance is lacking, cell metabolism is affected and conditions such as fatigue become evident. Green barley grass has a powerful alkalizing effect. AIM BarleyLife benefits and features:
AIM BarleyLife was and still is part of my dietary intake. It helped provide the much needed nutrition I needed during that time when my digestive system was weak and not assimilating food properly. Today, I continue to take it to fill in any nutritional gaps I may have that I’m not aware of. If I’m unable to prepare a meal, I drink a cup of BarleyLife and it provides me with an abundance of nutrition. In addition, my blood sugar is regulated and any cravings I may have are reduced. Based upon what I’ve seen it do for me and the testimonials of so many others who have tried it, I encourage you to try AIM BarleyLife as well. Think of it as the ideal “fast food”, with many benefits. Sources
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By Karen Smith Several years ago I went on a family reunion cruise. One of our stops was in the city of Ocho Rios, Jamaica. While there, we decided to do a guided tour of various parts of the city. One of our stops was a brief visit to the beach. It was a visit I’ll never forget. Not because it was an earth-shattering event, but because a natural phenomenon took place that left a lasting impression on me. Let me first begin by saying that I am a city girl—born and raised in New York City. Beaches were never a spot I frequented as a child and very few times during my adulthood. My encounters with beaches were primarily through viewing photographs, television, and/or movies. As I visited the beach that day, I drew close enough to the ocean water to have it run over my feet. It was very hot and it felt so good and refreshing to have my feet cooled by the water. After some time, we headed back to the vehicle for the remainder of our tour. It was there in the vehicle that I began to notice this sensation of tingling in my feet. My feet felt so alive or “electrified.” It was an amazing feeling--a strong sense of well-being all over my body. It was some time later that I found out that the experience I had was actually the result of something known as Earthing. Although Earthing can be a controversial subject, there are many who proclaim wonderful benefits from it while critics state that more scientific studies are needed to support this practice. What Is Earthing/Grounding? Earthing, or grounding as it is also called, is the discovery of being able to harness the natural energy from the earth by simply walking or sitting barefoot outdoors. Throughout history, humans have had direct, physical contact with the earth through walking, standing, sitting or sleeping on the ground. It is through this contact that electrons from the earth are transferred into the body—providing a natural healing energy. Through this practice one is able to revitalize the body—reducing inflammation and pain. Why Are We Disconnected? Unfortunately, as we have progressed as a society and become more sophisticated, we are indoors more often than not. We have taken advantage of the modern conveniences of today, which ultimately minimize our need for outdoor activities and limit our contact with the earth. Even when we are outdoors, what direct contact do you have with the earth? Because of the shoes we wear, vehicles we drive, and clothing we wear, many will say that there is little to no direct contact with the earth. How Does Earthing Work? Your body soaks up electrons from the ground when you practice Earthing or Grounding. The electrons move throughout your body and provide “electric nutrition”2—a term used by the Earthing Institute. Why is it even important to have an abundant source of electrons? Our bodily functions like breathing, digesting food, and eliminating wastes are daily activities that take place to keep us alive. The biological processes by which these functions happen is called metabolism. Metabolism converts the food and drink we consume into energy which allows for our growth, movement and reproduction. A natural byproduct of metabolism is the production of free radicals. Some free radicals are beneficial, but others—particularly in excess—can do quite a bit of damage in the body. Free radicals are created when electrons, which like to be in pairs, lose its partner and make them unstable. They will wreak havoc on the body as they seek to find other electrons they can pair with. This process causes damage to cells, proteins and DNA3. So, in order to avoid undue damage to the body, it’s beneficial to have a healthy balance of free radicals and electrons. Hence, grounding can be a simple but beneficial way of replenishing our electron deficiencies. What are the Benefits?
My personal story above is anecdotal and there are many others that can tell their story about the benefits they received from Earthing. According to the Earthing Institute, the following are benefits you can receive from Earthing.4
Before you write off this practice as absurdity, I encourage you to try it. You can go to the beach and get in the water, or at a minimum allow the water to run over your feet or walk on the wet sand. Another option is to stand or walk on the grass barefoot in your yard or sit in a chair with your bare feet touching the earth. I've done this and experienced the same feeling I had at the beach. This is particularly invigorating during the early morning or evening when there is dew on the ground or after rain showers or a storm. I think you will be amazed at how you feel. Try it for 30 minutes. If you don't have 30 minutes, then any amount of time is beneficial. Of course, the longer you do it, the greater benefits you will receive. If you don’t have access to the beach or may not be able to get outdoors as often as you like, you can still benefit from the Earth’s energy in the privacy of your own home through various Earthing products (i.e. mats, bands, sheets, etc.). I utilize these products and am thankful for them when I sleep and perform other indoor activities or when it’s just not convenient for me to be outdoors barefoot. Visit our Resources page to access the link to The Earthing Movie that explains the science behind Earthing. Don't let the simplicity of the practice cause you to write if off. Give it a try. Happy Grounding! Happy Earthing! Sources By Karen Smith A visit to the dentist was never one of my favorite places to go. If you’re honest, I think you would agree that it is probably not one of your favorite places to visit either. Growing up, a visit to the dentist was primarily had when a problem arose—like a cavity or toothache—or perhaps if the school requested a visit should be made. Other than these, the importance of routine oral care was not dinner-table discussion. It was not until I got older and began to read and study health-related topics that I truly started to understood the importance of oral care. Did you know that your mouth is a gateway to the health of your body—or that problems in your mouth can affect other areas of your body? Research has shown that decline in your oral health, which leads to inflammation, is associated with several diseases. What can you do about it? Oral health and overall health: What’s the connection? Your mouth is filled with bacteria—mostly harmless—and it’s kept under control with proper oral hygiene. However, bacteria can build up on teeth which make gums open to infection. The immune system moves in to fight the infection which causes inflammation. If the infection is not brought under control, the inflammation will continue and can lead to dental caries or severe gum disease, known as periodontitis. Inflammation also affects other parts of the body. In addition, certain medications-- such as decongestants, antihistamines, painkillers, diuretics, and antidepressants1—can reduce your ability to produce saliva. Saliva helps to wash away food and to neutralize bacterial acids that promote bacterial overgrowth that may lead to disease. What conditions may be linked to oral health? According to Mayo Clinic2, your oral health may affect, be affected by, or contribute to the following diseases and conditions:
Six (6) ways to protect your oral health:
Sources by Karen Smith What is Kefir? Kefir, pronounced “Kee-fur” or “Kuh-feer” is a fermented, enzyme-rich beverage that’s filled with friendly bacteria, known as probiotics. The word kefir is derived from the Turkish word “keif,” which means “good feeling.” Probiotics are live microorganisms, such as bacteria or yeast, which provide health benefits to the host when consumed. Probiotics is derived from the Greek language meaning “pro life.” Kefir is like a drinkable yogurt—but far more nutritious—with a tangy, slightly fizzy taste. It can be made with all kinds of milk—dairy or non-dairy. Kefir has been around for hundreds of years and has many preventive and curative properties. Kefir is rich in calcium, Vitamin B12, magnesium, folate, protein, and enzymes. A large amount of good bacteria populate the milk causing harmful bacteria to be suppressed. The kefir microbes consume sugars as food, causing the milk to become sour, but in turn creating a health-filled beverage teeming with life. Kefir Benefits Kefir, as already stated above, has many benefits that are both curative and preventive. It has both antibacterial and antifungal properties. It affects many body systems and is known to treat numerous disorders:
Types of Kefir Milk Kefir vs. Water Kefir Kefir “grains” are actually not grains at all but are so called because of their appearance. Kefir grains are used to make both milk kefir and water kefir. Milk kefir grains have a creamy, cauliflower-like appearance. The grains “eat” the milk sugars (lactose) out of the milk, which may make this a perfect drink for the lactose intolerant. Cow milk is commonly used in kefir but other sources can be used as well, such as goat or sheep. Coconut milk, nut and seed milks may also be used for those who prefer a non-dairy option. Water kefir grains look like translucent crystals and are placed in sugar water. It can be made from organic sugar or coconut water. The end flavor of your water kefir will be largely determined by the type of sugar you use. Water kefir has a sweeter taste, but the longer it ferments the less sugar remains. Water kefir is also another non-dairy option. It has a lighter texture How to Make Milk Kefir
How to Make Water Kefir
Tips for Handling Kefir
Note: If you choose to purchase commercial kefir products, look for a high-quality brand that is preferably organic and low in sugar. Remember that they usually contain added sweeteners and/or other additives and may lack in the quantity of bacterial strains available. Always check the label. Sources Do you drink kefir? What benefits have you experienced from it? Have you ever wanted to press pause, rewind, and start over in life? To have a complete makeover? Probably, we have all had that thought cross our mind at some point in our life. Those times may have been caused by something you did or because of what someone else did to you. Either way, you wanted to change the outcome to escape the pain, frustration, hurt, embarrassment, anger and any other emotion you can name. No matter how much you wanted a “do over” at that time, it wasn’t happening. You basically had to face the grim reality of the moment and start from that point to make any necessary adjustments. You hoped that the situation or relationship would improve--all the while accepting the fact that there were no guarantees on the outcome. If I think of the many times that I would have welcomed a do over, one day stands out where I was actually provided the opportunity to press pause, rewind and start over in life. My past mistakes--sins and all--were completely erased and forgiven. I was able to start life over with a clean slate. You may have never experienced freedom like this unless you can identify with what I’m about to share. You may be asking, “What happened or how can you have this happen in your life?” I’m glad you asked. It’s in the message of the Gospel, which means “Good News.” In the beginning, God… – Genesis 1:1 God created mankind—Adam and Eve—and placed them into a perfect environment, the Garden of Eden. He gave them freedom to enjoy life—to be fruitful and multiply. There was only one restriction; God commanded that they could not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. Adam and Eve submitted to the command and were obedient until one day Satan started talking to Eve when she was alone. He started to make her question what God had requested of them. Satan planted a seed of doubt in her mind and caused Eve to distrust God. He began to make her think that God did not have her best interest at heart. For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord – Romans 6:23 Eve succumbed to Satan’s temptation and encouraged her husband, Adam, to do the same. They disobeyed God and both ate from the tree of knowledge of good and evil. Because of their disobedience, they “died.” It wasn’t an actual physical death at that moment, but a spiritual one. Their relationship with God was broken since sin disrupts fellowship with God. And the rest is history. For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God; - Romans 3:23 Mankind has been in a downward spiral ever since. Because of Adam and Eve’s disobedience, they immediately became afraid and ashamed and hid from God. Their relationship with God was forever changed. Instead of them approaching God with openness, they now felt fear and wanted to hide. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us. – Romans 5:8 But God never withdrew from them; instead, he pursued them. And he still pursues us today. This is the Good News. God loved mankind so much that he wanted the relationship restored. Only how could a perfect God have fellowship with imperfect mankind? God had an answer—through His Son, Jesus. He did not wait for us to get it right before he provided a solution. Even when our heart was far from Him, He sent His Son to die for us. For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life. – John 3:16 Jesus is the true manifestation of God’s love to mankind. In order to restore the broken fellowship between God and mankind, Jesus became the ultimate sacrifice for our sin. As sin entered the world through the disobedience of one man, Adam, salvation came by one man, Jesus Christ (Romans 5:17-20). Just as God required Adam and Eve to trust His "word” back in the Garden of Eden through simple obedience, He requires us to have the same trust in His Word (Jesus) today (John 1:1). Trust in the Word allows us to receive forgiveness of sin and to enter back into restored fellowship with God. Although Jesus through his true love made the ultimate sacrifice for us by His death on the cross, we are not forced to receive His love. As God did not make Adam and Eve robots—forced to love and obey him (the two actions can’t be separated)—neither does God today force us to receive His love. We have a choice. Trusting God’s son, Jesus, requires a measure of faith which God gives each of us (Romans 12:3). But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him. – Hebrews 11:6 Nothing we do can ever earn God’s love for us. Even before we thought about Him, He had us on His mind. We receive gifts for many occasions—birthdays, holidays, thank yous, etc. Because of the occasion, many of us may think that we deserve a gift. But God’s gift of salvation through His Son is different. We didn’t earn it; nor do we deserve it. God provided His gift purely out of His love for us. We all come with humility to receive this Gift. For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast. – Ephesians 2:8-9 So, would you like the opportunity to press pause, rewind and have a do over in life? If so, you can right now. You can pray a prayer as short as Peter did when he began to sink while walking on the water, “Lord, save me.” (Matthew 14:29-31) or if you desire to express yourself in more words, you may pray something along the lines of the following. Either way, God knows your heart and your desire for Him. Lord, forgive me for my sins and my disobedience against you. I believe that Jesus died for my sins and was buried and arose to bring salvation to humanity. Blot out every sin that I have committed against you and mankind and write my name in the Book of Life. Make me a new creation in You. I receive You into my heart. I trust You with my life. Now fill me with your Holy Spirit and empower me to be a witness for You through my words, thoughts and actions. Thank you, Jesus, for loving me and providing for my salvation. Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth. - Luke 15:10 If you made a decision to follow Jesus, you have now experienced the "ultimate makeover." Heaven is rejoicing! Click here to obtain information to help you begin your journey with Jesus. Also, share your experience with us by connecting with us through our contact page. Welcome to the Forever Family of God! Have you made a decision to follow Jesus? Please share something about your relationship. |
About UsHi! We're Mario and Karen, the "sunshine couple". We love each other and actually like each other too. As health enthusiasts, we share our experiences as it relates to culture, health, and faith. We hope that you are encouraged in making positive lifestyle choices for a healthier body, mind, and spirit. Archives
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