BELIEF, FAITH, TRUST

What do you believe in? What do you have faith in? What do you trust? I've noticed, as the years race unapologetically by, that everything from landscapes to belief systems change. Today you may very well believe in dragons - tomorrow...? Not so much. I can't help but wonder though... if time can alter so much of what can be seemingly permanent why then are we so surprised, hurt and betrayed when it changes us? Could it be that we spend to much time evading the present? Think about it. We spend so much time "planning" the future (with our endless to do lists and day planners awaiting what may happen) that we brush off our present ignoring the very place from which we can create/manifest our life experiences in moments, days, hours, months and years to come. Perhaps the present is just that...the gift. Whooooa! - put that in your pipe and smoke it! I'm puffin' away at this very moment.

PILATES

I must say...as much as I rave about Yoga, I have completely regained my devotion to Pilates. Since going raw 23 days ago I've seen and felt my body change, not only has it reduced it size, I can actually see (from the 1st few days) things (fat) disappearing. Shapes reforming, CUTS ever so gradually emerging - I'm THRILLED!!!

I currently practice Pilates 4-7 days per week. Yes! u too have the time, each workout is only 20 minutes long. I'm finished by the time my child wakes up a 7 a.m.

RAW VS. COOKED

GOLDEN OM

Golden Om Yoga Studio of Brooklyn, NY where a lovely array of vegetarian delicacies were offered after a super yoga class was definitely the place to be this morning. The Yoga/Brunch which featured both raw (made by yours truly) and cooked culinary delights was a complete success.

Breakfast Scramble Delight

BABY STEPS

I've had many inquiries lately in regards to Raw Food, it's benefits, what to eat etc... This has prompted me blog on how to start on the road to a healthier, happier body and life by simply taking small steps at a time.

Step 1: Increase your water intake, invest in a filter and a reusable (portable) water bottle. Eliminate all soft drinks from your kitchen and mouth at all times, satisfy you sweet tooth with fresh juice. Your body, mind and spirit will thank you.

Step 2: Invest in a juicer if you haven't already (Macy's is currently having a sale on these very items) and if you do have one... make a decision to use it daily.

Step 3: Visit local bookstore and take home a book on juicing from which you will select 7-10 recipes. Create a shopping list of ingredients required.

Step 4: Pop in to the *organic section of your local grocery store and go to town!

Step 5: Prep items for busy mornings the night before (ie. peel your oranges, rinse your celery etc.) and store in bowl in fridge for easy morning juicing.

ENJOY!!! you'll wonder why haven't been doing this all of your life. Your Kids will LOVE it! I also freeze juice in popsicle trays for a refreshing treat. My son can't get enough of these, especially after coming home from his soccer game.

*Why organic? Well for me it's kind of a no brainer. Pesticides are poisonous (and I certainly don't want anything of that nature on or in (berries) my food. Also, pesticides are designed to damage the reproductive systems of these pests (which some can happily survive a nuclear war). If we are ingesting this...then? Ever wonder why infertility is at an all time high? As well as so many other horrific diseases. Just a little food for thought.

Conventional farmers	Organic farmers
Apply chemical fertilizers to promote plant growth.	Apply natural fertilizers, such as manure or compost, to feed soil and plants.
Spray insecticides to reduce pests and disease.	Use beneficial insects and birds, mating disruption or traps to reduce pests and disease.
Use chemical herbicides to manage weeds.	Rotate crops, till, hand weed or mulch to manage weeds.
Give animals antibiotics, growth hormones and medications to prevent disease and spur growth.	Give animals organic feed and allow them access to the outdoors. Use preventive measures — such as rotational grazing, a balanced diet and clean housing — to help minimize disease. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/organic-food/

THE TROUBLE WITH COOKED

Just had some brown rice, corn, edamame (in total about 1 cup). My only recurring craving since going raw 13 days ago... so far I've fallen of the wagon about 3 times. Boy - am I nauseous. It's been about 15 minutes since I swallowed the last fork full of rice. Although the nausea a bit better, I am now experiencing utter exhaustion. I literally feel that I would not be able to keep my eyes open long enough drive to the store - about 12 miles away. It really makes no sense to give my body cooked food if it's not going to make me feel alive and vibrant.

To think, I've been eating like this (cooked) all my life, so have most people. Why? Whoops! just took a mini nap with my fingers still on the keyboard... big RED FLAG.
**Just increased my intake of water & Fortune Delight. Must take 15 minute nap if I am to function.

RAW

Zucchini Marinara made by Cira Lara
As of yesterday, I am proud to say, I have become a certified Raw Food Chef. My journey began with researching a highly nutritional diet for my mom who's health requires a jump start all together. I thought if I could feed her in the most nutritious way her body would do the rest. While discussing this with a colleague she suggested I look into raw food and it's benefits as a compliment to the exceptionally *regenerative herbal foods I was about to introduce into her life style.

I did some research and quickly registered for a class in my area. Well...was I surprised! My body felt so light and satisfied (no hunger whatsoever) from eating the foods that were prepared by my instructor that I've decided to "go raw" for the next 30 days. This will also allow me to experience what my mom's body will...some what at least - as we have very different diets.

* to Regenerate - • bring into renewed existence.