Meet Nomi and Friends: Fresh Raw ideas FYI

You might think that as a raw food author and chef that she would think she had "tasted it all". But much to her delight,Nomi Shannon was tantalized by many of the recipes she discovered in inviting contributions from her universe. Adding several new spices, oils, and flavors to her own recipes, she said 'I was like a little kid in a candy shop!My already yummy marinara sauce became ambrosial by adding a few drops of essential oil of basil!)'

Try these recipes yourself and *dazzle* your taste buds.

Cantaloupe Cactus Cooler
(by Cecilia Kinzie, from her chapter in What do Raw Fooders Eat?)


Yield: About 32 ounces

1 Nopal Cactus Leaf (spines removed)
2 cups coconut water
2 cups chopped Cantaloupe
2-4 drops liquid Stevia
squeeze of lime

Carefully remove spines from the nopal cactus and chop
into pieces.Add all ingredients to the blender except for
the lime. Taste for desired sweetness and top off with a
squeeze of lime.

Luscious mango-cucumber soup with fresh citrus oil
(by Amy Bacheller)


Yield: 4 cups, 4 servings
Time: 30 minutes


2 mangos peeled and cut in chunks
2 cucumbers peeled and cut in chunks
2 Tablespoons Olive oil
1 lemon, juiced
¼ cup coconut water, filtered water or orange juice
¼ teaspoon Himalyan salt
¼ cup mint leaves
2-4 drops 'Citrus Fresh' Young Living Essential Oils
¼ cup sprigs of mint for garnish


Blend all but last two ingredients until smooth and creamy,
adding more liquid if needed. Add Citrus Fresh essential
oil to taste and blend briefly.


Garnish with mint leaves and serve. This yummy soup can be
stored in a covered container in the refrigerator for up
to five days.


Raw Coconut Yogurt
(by Amy Bacheller)

3 cups Thai young coconut meat (approx. four coconuts)
½ cup Thai young coconut water
¼ teaspoon Himalayan salt
1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
¼ teaspoon probiotic powder (I use Ejuva)
2 drops Ginger Young Living Essential Oil
1 drop Nutmeg Young Living Essential Oil


Blend coconut meat and coconut water until smooth, creamy
and slightly warm, adding more water as needed. Add
remaining ingredients, blend briefly. Pour the mixture into
a covered quart glass container, leaving room for expansion.


Place in a warm area, covered with a cloth. Allow to rest
for about 12 hours, depending on the desired tartness.
Store in a covered glass container in the refrigerator for
up to one week.


Comments: Try flavoring with different Essential oils such
as Cinnamon or Clove. Sweeten with Young Living Stevia
extract. Mix the yogurt with fruit and top with granola
or chopped nuts.


Both Amy's recipes above are adapted from the eBook: 'Using
Essential Oils in Raw Cuisine' by Amy Bacheller.

Many Species - One Planet - One Future
I See You ~ Namaste ~
Yours in Wellness, Gratitude, Vitality and the Rhythm of Nature,
Suzen Sharda Segall
This blog post can be reproduced in its entirety with the following information:© Suzen Sharda Segall 2010, CelebratingtheInnerHealer.com http://www.wellnesstraining.com/ http://www.celebratingtheinnerhealer.blogspot.com/ Suzen Sharda Segall, Wellness Personal Trainer/Consultant, designer and facilitator of BodyArts Therapeutics, has provided an integrated approach to health and wellness for a wide variety of populations, internationally,for over thirty-five years




http://tinyurl.com/rg-dressings

Great Vegan Cheese Sauce FYI

Welcome Spring Cheesy Broccali Soup I’m excited to share the Wayfare new ‘not cheese’ sauce product in this version of Creamy Broccali Soup. I’ve made the consistency feel rich and creamy in the past version presented to Gilda’s Club members for my Mindful Eating Workshop, using much higher caloric raw cashews. Happily, our EEFCoop is now featuring buy 2 get one free on this “I can’t say it’s cheese” sauce by Wayfare.

Details on the sauce ingredients – like all their products, whole grain oatmeal is the main thing(!) with coconut and sunflower oil, sesame, pimentos, nutritional yeast, sea salt, calcium carbonate and onion powder – I’m so impressed -- let me know how you enjoy it. (And don’t forget to use the coupons I’ve provided in past notes/newsletter/or even print off my blog entry from March 14 and purchase more of the Wayfare goodies for low-fat, low-sodium, high fiber and calcium rich vegan dairy alternatives.)

Soup ingredients start with the Miracle Mineral Broth with my additions for upping the healing power with both dried shitake and pears (for the lungs). I also used Trader Joe’s organic broccali florets, heads , slaw and baby broccali. Yukon gold potatoes and sweets , fresh basil, fresh cracked lemon pepper, yellow onions, sea salt and a blessed pinch of cayenne complete the simple and quick ingredients in this one. I’ve garnished with some Spring pea sprouts, baby broccali, dried shallots and paprika.

I’m rethinking the plan for the month of May – Firstly, the kitchen will be closed the first week (there are 4 weeks to follow) I’ll be on retreat in Ann Arbor the last April week-end. We’ll be holding a special Friday Evening chanting for healing ourselves, healing the world– from the ancient Jain tradition guided by Meditation Master, Gurudev Shree Chitrabhanu. Stay tuned!

For more great spring recipes and menus - do click on the PCRM banner above - we're just in the midst of the 21 day kick-off and you can still register.

Buon apetito! L’Chaim, In Joy!! Your singing-soup-maker, Sharda

Many Species - One Planet - One Future I See You ~ Namaste ~ Yours in Wellness, Gratitude, Vitality and the Rhythm of Nature, This blog post can be reproduced in its entirety with the following information:© Suzen Sharda Segall 2010, CelebratingtheInnerHealer.com http://www.wellnesstraining.com/ http://www.celebratingtheinnerhealer.blogspot.com/ Suzen Sharda Segall, Wellness Personal Trainer/Consultant, designer and facilitator of BodyArts Therapeutics, has provided an integrated approach to health and wellness for a wide variety of populations, internationally,for over thirty-five years

Daiya™ Foods is featured on Oprah as Kathy Freston’s Favorite Vegan Cheese

Click on this link for video clip of Oprah and Kathy Freston, New York Times best-selling author and vegan of seven years. Oprah and her 378 staff members committed to a vegan lifestyle for one week. On February 1st, Kathy led the challenge, which included a shopping trip to Whole Foods Market for vegan tips. Freston featured Daiya products as her favorite vegan cheese alternative and Oprah got a chance to taste test Daiya 's tapioca based Cheddar Style Shreds making a snack with pumpernickle bread.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_EeMpCxRXq0

With an average of 6 million viewers per episode, Daiya Foods has witnessed first-hand what the "Oprah effect" has done for their growing company. Their website alone has seen more than two and a half times their regular traffic.

Daiya products are a deliciously dairy free alternative that melt, taste and stretch like dairy based cheese. Daiya is free of many of the common food allergens including; gluten, dairy, (casein and lactose), soy (common to many other non-dairy cheese alternatives), egg, wheat, barley, whey, peanuts and tree nuts (excluding coconut oil). Daiya products are free of animal products, cholesterol, trans fats, and preservatives. I'm looking forward to their March launch of the third variation on this outstanding vegan fun food. To find out more visit www.daiyafoods.com . In the 'burgh, find Daiya at Community Market on Freeport Road (the best price in town- yippee!)
as well as at East End Food Coop on Meade Street and Whole Foods. (What are ya waitin' for Big Bird?)

I've given samples of the mozzerella version to my Vegan Healing Soup Subscribers and will add the cheddar version when I deliver the Chili at the end of the month.

Do you have a different favorite vegan cheese alternative?

Many Species...One Planet...One Future
~I See You ~ Namaste ~
Yours in Wellness, Gratitude, Vitality and the Rhythm of Nature,
Suzen Sharda Segall

This blog post can be reproduced in its entirety with the following information:

© Suzen Sharda Segall 2010, CelebratingtheInnerHealer.com


http://www.WellnessTraining.com
http://www.celebratingtheinnerhealer.blogspot.com/
Suzen Sharda Segall, Wellness Personal Trainer/Consultant, designer and facilitator of BodyArts Therapeutics, has provided an integrated approach to health and wellness for a wide variety of populations, internationally,for over thirty-five years

YES! More on Soup

Back in the 1940's a Dr. Akizuki, who personally drank miso soup daily to strengthen the frail body he was born with, got his whole family and hospital staff in Nagasake to drink miso soup regularly. For two years after the atomic bomb hit Nagasake, Dr. Akizuki and his staff worked very closely with fallout victims in areas that had the highest radiation levels. When neither he nor his staff got radiation sickness as would be expected, Dr. Akizuki speculated that perhaps this was due to miso soup. Many years later, in 1972, a study by Japanese scientists intrigued with Dr. Akizuki's writings, found that miso contains zybicolin (dipicolinic acid) which grabs onto heavy metals (radioactive strontium being one) and discharges them from the body.


One healthy way to add more water and fiber to the diet is through soups, which can be served in many ways -- not just to start a meal. Miso soup, particularly, is wonderful not just at the start, but sipped during the meal as well, for it's digestive support. Have you ever had soup as a side dish? a dessert? A meal in itself?

Participants in a weight-loss study at the Institute of Behavioral Education (King of Prussia, Pennsylvania) found soup to be an efficent weight control. Compared to non-soup eaters, those who made soup a regular part of their meals -- at least four times a week -- lost wieght more readily and were more likely to have maintained their weight loss one year later. Researchers have confirmed my opinion, soup is generally calorically less dense than solid foods, which explains why they found that the larger a role soup played in a meal, the fewer calories would be consumed. Annother slimming factor about soup is that sipping soup slows the pace, giving the brain a chance to register satiety before too many calories are consumed. The chewing and swallowing and taking a long time to eat (chew at least 32 times/50 times/a minutes time to liquify then swallowing) are factors in setting off the satiety system in the brain to make a person not only feel full, but also making that feeling of satiety last for a longer period of time.

Although the reasons aren't entirely clear, studies have shown that the activities of chewing and swallowing in themselves increase electrical activity in the part of the brain connected with satiety. It seems to take about five minutes after food first enters the mouth for any feeling of satiety to begin to register, and around twenty minutes before all mechanisms coordinate to communicate that the stomach is full, no matter how much food is eaten. Even if we are all not fast eaters, who hasn't experienced quickly gulping down a meal in ten - fifteen minutes, only to suddenly feel uncomfortably stuffed five to ten minutes later ( as the body's satiety mechanisms caught up). Slowing down, with more chewing and chewing well, comes with the territory of meals consisting of fiber-rich foods.

Dietary fiber is bulk, which makes us feel full - stays in the tummy longer than processed foods and takes up more room, without calories! In addition, this fiber acts like a broom, sweeping out a lot of fat, cholesterol and chemical toxins from the bloodstream, removing them from the body. More on fiber and mindful eating later!

Non-soup eaters were found to consume one-third more calories per minute than soup eaters. So, sip away, my slimming soup companions!

Bon Apetito!! L'Chaim!! In JOY!!

From you I receive, To You I give, Together we share and From this we live
Many Species...One Planet...One Future
~I See You ~ Namaste ~
Yours in Wellness, Gratitude, Vitality and the Rhythm of Nature,
Suzen Sharda Segall

This blog post can be reproduced in its entirety with the following information:

© Suzen Sharda Segall 2010, CelebratingtheInnerHealer.com

Listen at: http://tinyurl.com/

Blog: www.celebratingtheinnerhealer.blogspot.com

Or on its unique radio channel at:

Suzen Sharda Segall, Wellness Personal Trainer/Consultant, designer and facilitator of BodyArts Therapeutics, has provided an integrated approach to health and wellness for a wide variety of populations, internationally,for over thirty-five years

Taoist Astrological report for January 6-February 3

I'm sharing Phil Janetta's current report fyi:

General Outlook January is a paradoxical month. Marking the beginning of the year on the solar calendar, it brings a keen sense of anticipation and restlessness. Who isn’t ready for a “fresh start” and a new beginning. We are likely eager to work on heart-felt resolutions to fashion a more satisfying life for our selves and loved ones.

But something essential is missing from January’s anticipation - a key without which all our hopeful expectations sour into frustration and disappointment. The missing element is simple: The new energetic year will not begin until February 4th 2011. This date marks the actual turning of emphasis and influence. For practical purposes, it is the true beginning of a new growth cycle in our lives.

The fact is, whatever our intentions, January is a period of transition – a time when, like the frozen vegetation, the old withers and fades, to make way to the new. This shift is best spent in planning and preparation, while carefully continuing with daily routines. Gardeners and farmers know the importance of timing. They struggle with the temptation to plant at the first signs of spring, and worry about the real possibility of a late killing frost that will make a mockery of their efforts.

If we push ahead with new initiatives in January, we will likely meet resistance and create unexpected complications for ourselves. Quite early in the solar new year, we could despair of progress, and resign ourselves to the “same old thing,” as our resolutions and hopeful intentions dissolve. We may blame our selves or others, karma or god for our misfortune. Sadly, we might mistakenly conclude that we are unable to influence the course of our lives.

Energetics – December had a decidedly winter feel, matching the actual season. January brings the opposite - a summer-like influence in mid-winter - that will color our perceptions, emotions and interactions. This will be both enjoyable - as relationships and friendships are highlighted – and challenging, as our judgment and patience will be tested. More energy will be in our head (eyes and brain) and less in the “centering” and “grounding” area of the abdomen.

Implications – If we are not careful, this summer-feel could prompt us to behave prematurely, in ways that run contrary to our well-being. With a certain naivety, we could forge ahead before we are ready or before conditions are right. January is a classic “lean” month. This year, the realm of balance is rather narrow. It will be easy to slip into extremes, which could create a new set of complications to deal with.

On the other hand, if we ignore the enthusiasm and activity January’s energy will engender, we could miss genuine opportunities – specifically, shining a light on the reality of our circumstances, the quality of our expectations, and the practicality of our approach.

The advice is to reflect on insights and possibilities as they present themselves. Expand your vision of the possible. Remind yourself that, to be successful, new initiatives and activities must be carried out in an orderly fashion. January is certainly not a month for recklessness or superficial behavior or commitment.

Symbols and Associations – An awareness of traditional symbols and associations can help us understand our own evolving needs, drives and emotions as the months and seasons progress.

Those living in temperate climates are keenly aware of January’s severity.

December’s light, color and human warmth now give way to more somber symbols and subtle associations.

Nature reminds us that “stillness” balances activity, contemplation completes sociability.

Ice – The flowing nature of water is now frozen on the surface. We know, of course, that under the ice, deep water retains the wonderful fluidity of liquid. The lesson for us is for outer stillness, while exploring and expressing the depths of our inner being.

Snow – Softens landscapes and quiets any environment, while insulating / protecting the interior. Again, an example we can adopt in our own life – an exterior softness enables a peaceful interior.

Snow also has a cold purity – undue passion and emotional volatility are extremes that exact a great price now.

Wind – Is both a harbinger and bringer of change. January’s wind can be cutting, penetrating to the very bones. Our foundations now need to be maintained and protected.

Associations
The Return of Light – One minute at a time, each day finds dawn coming earlier, dusk later. This progression is subtle, but brings a sense of hope for things to come. (It will be more apparent in February.)

A Pause / Transition - The forces of life are now in flux. It is a time heralding endings and beginnings, while being neither. Transitions allow us to leave old patterns behind, while offering visions of what can be. This is a paradoxical situation. The old is not yet finished, and the new is not yet here. Be patient. Exercise the discipline to follow your best instincts.

Waiting / Drifting – This is not a primary month either for initiating new activities or for forcefully responding to circumstances. Rather, calmly adjust / respond to situations and demands. Do this in appropriate ways and in a timely fashion.

Human Image – Whatever we do now requires extra planning and preparation, and more time in execution. Care, even caution, are called for. The very young and very old, the frail and sick (on the physical, psychological and spiritual levels) are at risk. Even those in the fullness of life cannot act with disregard for natural forces without endangering their inner resources.

It is a time to:

Concretely envision what we want for ourselves in the coming year;

Make and fine-tune preparations in whatever ways we can;

Commit and dedicate ourselves to doing what it takes to realize our

aspirations;

Ask for and be willing to accept spiritual guidance and support.

Commentary – 2010 has been a year characterized by the image of “Revolution.” Hopefully, we have had insights and experiences that enabled us to improve the quality of our lives in ways large and small. But change, even positive change, must be consolidated, made an innate part of our outlook and routines. Use the month of January to reinforce and fortify whatever growth or progress you have accomplished. We all know how quickly even powerful ideas and positive habits can fade if not properly nourished.

Food (The basic way we adjust to changing environmental influences, remain in touch with ever-shifting energies, and nourish our selves through the various stages of life, is with daily diet.)

After the celebrations and possible excesses of the holidays, the pendulum shifts to counter this - it is time to simplify. Of course we still desire warming, energizing foods, yet it is time to satisfy these needs in simple, wholesome ways. Soups can be mainstays now. Examples include green split-pea, green/brown lentil, and Italian white-bean, and vegetable Minestrone. (Deep-fried croutons add extra richness.) Risotto is actually simple to make and is quite appetizing. Fried rice, fried noodles and sautéed vegetables are quite satisfying now. Breakfast on oatmeal or other grain porridges to energize your mornings.

(Note that January is the last month emphasizing strong energy and heat. Soon we will be craving fresher tastes and foods that relax, in response to the energetic shift towards spring’s up and outward movement.)

Special Energy Days – There are days each month when the energy is especially active and bright, and others when it is slow and dull. This is true generally, and is not specific to individual natures. (Rather than basing your actions on the following dates, review them once they are past to see if this rings true in your own life.)

January’s Fortunate Dates – 9, 15, 21, 27 Feb 2

Inauspicious Dates – 8, 14, 20, 26 Feb 1

© Phil Jannetta 2011


Note from Sharda:
February 2nd is actually Chinese New Year's eve, and part of the special energy is because it is also Candlemas or Mid-winters day or as we refer to it Groundhog's Day. So many faiths will be celebrating on this special day -- and YOU??



From you I receive, To You I give, Together we share and From this we live
Many Species...One Planet...One Future
~I See You ~ Namaste ~
Yours in Wellness, Gratitude, Vitality and the Rhythm of Nature,
Suzen Sharda Segall

This blog post can be reproduced in its entirety with the following information:

© Suzen Sharda Segall 2010, CelebratingtheInnerHealer.com

Listen at: http://tinyurl.com/

Blog: www.celebratingtheinnerhealer.blogspot.com

Or on its unique radio channel at:

Suzen Sharda Segall, Wellness Personal Trainer/Consultant, designer and facilitator of BodyArts Therapeutics, has provided an integrated approach to health and wellness for a wide variety of populations, internationally,for over thirty-five years

Bless yourself: Nature Meditation

Give yourself a gift of less than six minutes to breath deep and enjoy yourself
welcoming the New Year with Will's guided meditation and beautiful visuals.






From you I receive, To You I give, Together we share and From this we live
Many Species...One Planet...One Future
~I See You ~ Namaste ~
Yours in Wellness, Gratitude, Vitality and the Rhythm of Nature,
Suzen Sharda Segall

This blog post can be reproduced in its entirety with the following information:

© Suzen Sharda Segall 2010, CelebratingtheInnerHealer.com

Listen at: http://tinyurl.com/

Blog: www.celebratingtheinnerhealer.blogspot.com

Or on its unique radio channel at:

Suzen Sharda Segall, Wellness Personal Trainer/Consultant, designer and facilitator of BodyArts Therapeutics, has provided an integrated approach to health and wellness for a wide variety of populations, internationally,for over thirty-five years

December 8 – January 5, 2011

Once again, I'm sharing the Taoist Astrological Monthly Report produced by Phil Jannetta

As we celebrate the holidays, there is much opportunity for personal health and well-being. What we do (or fail to do) now will greatly influence our experiences in the new year. I hope these reports help you thoroughly enjoy the season and find renewed meaning and purpose as we turn towards the new energy year.

I join Phil in wishing you the very best over the holidays – however you celebrate them.

Phil Jannetta is an author and teacher in the fields of macrobiotics and Far-Eastern Energetics who lucky for me, lives in my neighborhood in Pittsburgh. He has an interesting online service providing monthly kernals of wisdom from Taoist astrology that I'm finding very affirming -- perhaps you too will find some useful support in the report covering the time frame from December 8 through January 5 .

General Outlook
Clearly, the holiday season - the period leading up to them, celebrating them, and unwinding and recovering from them – dominate our experiences in December. Ironically, the month is notorious for its potential for increased stress and sadness that can deepen into depression. Part of this dynamic is the spreading darkness that creeps into both ends of the day - dawn and dusk - as we drift towards the year’s shortest days.
Another factor is the operation of the dynamic of “misdirection,” found throughout life. At a time when natural forces are directing our attention inward – toward quietness and self-reflection, taking stock and making plans - social forces focus on the decidedly external activities that test our judgment and best intentions. The full force of advertising is now turned on young and old alike. Messages stoke the fires of material and emotional perception. Issues of self-image and self-worth are heavily employed in the attempt to have us to act in ways (buying and spending, excess and indulgence) that may not be conducive to our own and our family’s present and future well-being. The failure to address our inner self can result in frustration and deep-seated dissatisfaction that could last well into spring.
Emphasizing the material, we collectively (cultures and communities, families and individuals) fail in the essential task at this time of year for renewing the spirit. Too often we mistakenly seek to satisfy the genuine need for meaning and purpose, hope and comfort, family and friends, from sources bound to disappoint.


Energetics – There could be a “wintry” feel to December, not simply in the actual weather, but in our mood and levels and physical vitality as well. The energetic imperative now will be for:

1) Conserving resources - be prepared for unexpected demands of various types,

2) Replenishing yourself – physically, psychologically and spiritually, and

3) Purification – the letting go of mistaken impressions, assumptions and expectations that have accumulated over the year.


Implications – December highlights a pair of complementary activities. To benefit from the month’s mystery and yes, even magic, the advice is to consciously and enthusiastically participate in the duality this duet performs. In nature, abundance and fullness are invariably balanced by scarcity and emptiness. If we are wise, we can avoid the subtle hazards of overabundance and the obvious risks that come with insufficiency.
In preparation for the year-end celebration, the advice is to make the effort to first “empty” yourself of excess, wherever and in whatever form you find it. Do this in ways that reflect your own sensibilities, not in conformance with conventional sensibilities. Experience the genuine and profound sense of lightness that comes by giving away items you no longer use, and recycling what is no longer in working order.


Symbols and Associations – An awareness of traditional symbols and associations can help us understand our own evolving needs, drives and emotions as the months and seasons progress. December brings two powerful symbols (and their numerous associations):
The Winter Solstice – Arriving this year on December 21 (and accompanied by a total lunar eclipse), the solstice marks the year’s longest night and the start of winter on the solar calendar. Interestingly, it is also a major turning point towards light (the daylight hours slowly begin to lengthen, minute by minute).
Representing a journey’s full circle, the winter solstice is both an ending and a beginning – a two-edge sword that can be wisely or harmfully used. In this case, knowledge and awareness are crucial.
The New Year (and the End of the Current Year) – Bringing an affirming combination of hope, expectation, and celebration, the new year is a milestone marking a major shift of emphasis and influence.
Associations - Endings and Beginnings / Death and Rebirth / Past and Future - winter’s somber feel now shifts towards hopefulness and joy.
Light and Color – The seasonal colors are both magical and powerful.

Green (think of evergreens) represents renewal, youthfulness, the promise of spring, growth and vitality. In winter, green mysteriously adds a feel of warmth when the natural landscape is otherwise bleak. (In hot weather green brings fresh, cool relief.)


Red is a symbol of celebration and happiness throughout Asia. To all, it brings a welcome feel of warmth and stimulation. A strong heart and robust blood are bodily representations.
Ironically, red is related to complimentary images – the merriment and benevolence of Santa Clause, and the horror of hellish beings and of hellish states of being. It is our own condition that determines how we perceive, interpret and experience the implications of red.


Human Image – The qualities of purification and renewal will be highlighted this December.
1 Red reflects the valuable process of “going through the fire.”
This act serves to remove (burn off) what is unnecessary, harmful or mistaken in our perceptions and behavior. In the heat of high summer this occurs spontaneously (a involuntary process). As the year winds down, it is a voluntary process – it is up to us to clear the way for the new influences of the coming year.
2 Green speaks of renewal and rebirth – the promise of fresh opportunities, new areas of emphasis and a lightening of spirit. Just remember that the green energy of shrubs and trees depends on deep, healthy roots. Attend to your own roots.


Commentary – The irony at this time of year is that without the activities summarized by the red color, the promises associated with the green color are limited – growth must be preceded by consolidation, roots grow before foliage, renewal is born from letting go.

Suggestions include:
~Just as we discard the shell to enjoy the nut it contains, it is now time to actively release the superficial aspects and embrace the essential meaning of our experiences over the past year.
~Joyfully practice the spirit of kindness and charity – give of your time and talents, energy and experience, as appropriate.
~ Celebrate and delight both in the season’s enchantment, and in the awareness of fellowship that reminds us that we are members of a great web of beings with the creativity to make our world a safe, supportive family.


Food (The primary way we adjust to changing environmental influences, remain in touch with ever-shifting energies, and nourish our selves through the various stages of life, is with daily diet.)
December brings two points of focus – Simple yet strong foods (and cooking styles) are followed by the Foods of Celebration that herald the Year-End holidays. We are now actively compensating for the sun’s retreat by using food to stoke our “internal fire.” We need more high-quality oil (an essential nutrient), slightly more sea salt (another dietary essential), complex carbohydrates, and rich dishes (a continuation from November).


If we are not careful, strong cravings for (and indulgence in) sweets, alcohol, soft dairy foods, and other extremes, can now play havoc with physical and psychological health. As a result, the year’s most festive time, could find us suffering from the elimination mechanisms of fever and coughs, emotional ups and downs, and an acute sense of spiritual disconnect.
The advice is to be conscientious now.

1) Pay attention to (and anticipate) cravings, and satisfy them in wholesome ways.

2) Provide the nourishment and energy the body needs to cope with weather extremes.

3) Delight in the holidays in a mindful way and avoid the binging that inevitable imbalance body and mind.
Special Energy Days – There are days each month when the energy is especially active and bright, and others when it is slow and dull. This is true generally, and is not specific to individual natures. (Rather than basing your actions on the following dates, review them once they are past to see if this rings true in your own life.)


December’s Fortunate Dates – 12, 18, 24, 30
Inauspicious Dates – 11, 17, 23, 29
© Phil Jannetta 2010

Thanks, again, Phil, for the enlightening notes to ourselves! If you'd like to subscribe directly with Phil for 2011 - do contact him at:
E-Mail philjannetta@hotmail.com

21-Day Vegan Kickstart Less than a month till the next Kickstart! Perfect New Year's resolution! http://21daykickstart.org/
From you I receive, To You I give, Together we share and From this we live
Many Species...One Planet...One Future
~I See You ~ Namaste ~
Yours in Wellness, Gratitude, Vitality and the Rhythm of Nature,
Suzen Sharda Segall

This blog post can be reproduced in its entirety with the following information:

© Suzen Sharda Segall 2010, CelebratingtheInnerHealer.com

Listen at: http://tinyurl.com/

Blog: www.celebratingtheinnerhealer.blogspot.com

Or on its unique radio channel at:

Suzen Sharda Segall, Wellness Personal Trainer/Consultant, designer and facilitator of BodyArts Therapeutics, has provided an integrated approach to health and wellness for a wide variety of populations, internationally,for over thirty-five years

Widening Horizons: Step back and Clear the Path

Today's title references The opening of The Tai Ji Dance of the Five Elements - a practice that brought me to know and play with Phil Jannetta a few years back.


Phil Jannetta is an author and teacher in the fields of macrobiotics and Far-Eastern Energetics who lucky for me, lives in my neighborhood in Pittsburgh. He has an interesting online service providing monthly kernals of wisdom from Taoist astrology that I'm finding very affirming. I'm including his latest information below - even though it describes the whole month of November and just the first week of December -- perhaps you too will find something affirming by reflecting on the past month and useful now to support your transition from Fall to Winter - body-mind and or spirit.

General Outlook Horizons widen in November – both literally and symbolically. As the vegetation dies back and trees drop their leaves, the natural landscape exposes a forgotten side of its character. Features previously hidden and vistas obscured for long months now reveal themselves.

This “opening up” is as apparent in our back yard and neighborhood as it is on a walk or drive through the countryside.

Implications - Nature serves as a valuable reminder, through its own example, to psychologically step back, to view the circumstances, direction and path we have walked this year, with a detached perspective (to the extent that detachment is possible when it comes to personal affairs).

Such a review is a vital exercise. It is essential if we are to avail ourselves to the inspiration and stimulation, to the imperative for growth and connectedness that is the essence of creation and the stimulus for continued personal development as we move through our lives.

Symbols and Associations – An awareness of traditional symbols and associations can help us understand our own evolving needs, drives and emotions as the months and seasons progress. The obvious symbols include:

Fire and Light- Holiday candles, lights and color are appropriate ways to balance the sun’s seasonal retreat.

A Hard, Killing Frost- Heralds the end of the growing season and the inclination for our own attention to turn inward and toward the metaphysical.

First Snow- cold and ice – Beneath the snow and frozen ground, the forces of life renew itself for the coming of spring. Do the same for yourself.

Celebrating Abundance – The image of “plenty” includes our material, psychological and spiritual resources. Commemorate those things you treasure and that make life meaningful.

Charity and Donations – What more appropriate way to acknowledge our blessings – small and large - than by sharing with family and friends, and with the less fortunate.

Appreciation and Gratitude – By recognizing, acknowledging and expressing thankfulness for all that is positive in our lives, we foster the “Abundant Mind, Giving Heart” that mirrors the order of life.

Personal Natural Image – November brings a valuable and fleeting (December offers its own emphasis) opportunity to enlarge perception and outlook – to see our lives in the context of the numerous relationships each of us exist within.

The month’s paradox lies in the fact that as the natural landscape opens up, energy is actually moving inward – it is being conserved, concentrated and refined.
Activity is polarized in November. In the plant world, the growth cycle has moved into a stage of dormancy. In the animal world, the picture can be opposite. Song birds have migrated. Many animals hibernate. For those that do not, however, there is a burst of activity motivated by the need to collect and store energy (calories) for the coming winter.

Human Image – The thrust of November’s influence revolves around two imperatives:

1. Taking Stock - reviewing our activities over the past months (the planting, growing and harvest seasons). Before the year ends, there is still time to further our goals, provided they are sharply focused and our efforts are consistently applied.

2. Getting Organized – The final weeks before year’s end are highlighted by the image of straightening up and cleaning out: of putting things in order in anticipation of Winter (both its seasonal and energetic natures.

3. Be Comprehensive - The year’s darkest and coldest days are ahead of us. Modern conveniences shield us from the extremes of physical discomfort. It is emotion and intellect, social and spiritual expression that many of us do a poor job of addressing. There is much to be gained now by examining each of these areas of personal expression. And, opportunities will be lost if we fail in this activity.

4. Acknowledge that there are tasks to be performed, promises to keep (to ourselves and to others) while the weather is still relatively mild. Use the month’s vibrancy to conscientiously set various aspects of your life in order.

Also, be sure to look ahead towards the year’s end and beyond. There is still opportunity for accomplishment, involvement and varied experiences before winter’s quiet sets in. We need only recognize that the time for completion is now at hand.

Commentary –Along with the obvious imperative to get things organized, several qualities support the suggested whole-person approach to self-examination as the year reaches its conclusion:
~ Take time each day to reflect on your experiences over the year. There are lessons, both general and specific, we can learn and apply in daily life based on both the positive and the painful. Do not waste these opportunities for growth. What you learn now will be put to use in coming seasons.

~ Identify key issues in your life that need or should be addressed. Late Autumn’s momentum (widening perspectives) makes this easier than at other times of the year. Do not procrastinate. Time passes quickly now and influences will change.

~Once you have clarified a topic or matter to work on, commit to resolving it. Be determined, intelligent and flexible in doing so.

Food – The primary way we adjust to changing environmental influences is with daily diet. We now naturally start to crave rich, warming foods - Autumn’s comfort foods are sweet, salty and oily, warm, moist and soft. The colors orange, gold and red invariably find their way onto our plate. It is time for warm and moist breakfast porridges. Thoughts may turn to thick soups and rich stews, noodles in a hot broth, and hearty Risotto (my autumn favorites include sweet- squash and mushroom, with daiya non-dairy mozzarelli Risotto). The baking season begins in earnest – for a naturally sweet taste, try baked apples, sweet potatoes or yams. At Phil's house, this is muffin season – primarily because they know how to make them without the eggs, milk, butter and refined sugar that we all avoid. Stay tuned here, I'm hoping Phil will gift us with a vegan muffin recipe soon! Breads and simple seasonal fruit pies round out his family's repertoire -- I've had fun preparing a simple baked fruit with oatmeal-walnut crumble top -- usually apples with either peaches or pinapple.

We turn to these warming foods to compensate for the sun’s retreat and the consequent loss of light and warmth. By exercising our judgment and will, we supply the materials to generate internal heat and light so we can remain active over the winter. Thank you Phil Jannetta!

How have you been celebrating the inner healer during this seasonal transition? Stay tuned for Phil's next Outlook for year's end and start of 2011.

Many Species...One Planet...One Future~I See You ~ Namaste ~

Yours in Wellness, Gratitude, Vitality and Reverence for All Life,

Suzen Sharda Segall

This blog post can be reproduced in its entirety with the following information:© Suzen Sharda Segall 2010, CelebratingtheInnerHealer.comListen at: http://tinyurl.com/Blog: http://www.celebratingtheinnerhealer.blogspot.com/ on its unique radio channel at:Suzen Sharda Segall, Wellness Personal Trainer/Consultant, designer and facilitator of BodyArts Therapeutics, has provided an integrated approach to health and wellness for a wide variety of populations, internationally, for over thirty-five years.