ESSENTIAL OILS - MORE THAN JUST A PRETTY FACE

Aromatherapy uses highly concentrated essential oils extracted from plants to stimulate the healing process and to treat symptoms of illness. Applied topically on its own or in a blend, essential oils can ease cramps, gas, bloating, heartburn, indigestion, stomach pain and elimination difficulties. Because they are very potent, only a drop or two is needed to achieve results. Some of the best essential oils for treating digestive complaints include:

· Peppermint – one of the most well-known herbs for the digestive system, peppermint’s cooling and soothing properties categorizes it as an anti-inflammatory oil. Peppermint is widely used to reduce flatulence, cool ulcers and provide heartburn relief.

· Anise or Fennel – Anise or fennel essential oils are known as digestive tonics with anti-spasmodic and antiseptic properties. These can be helpful for easing gas pain, cramps, bloating and nausea. In addition, many practitioners use anise or fennel to help balance hormones.

· Cinnamon – A powerful antimicrobial essential oil, cinnamon is used to warm a cold, painful belly or to fight infection. More recent applications of cinnamon include boosting the metabolism and aiding weight loss. However, this oil must be used sparingly and with caution because it can be irritating to the skin.

· Ginger – The essential oil of this popular root helps warm and tonify the digestive system. Ginger oil is preferred when working with a client who has nausea or vomiting and has an abdomen that feels cold. In addition, using this oil on the lower back can help stimulate a sluggish large intestine.

An essential oil blend geared towards digestive health can add a unique therapeutic value to an aromatherapy massage. While only a therapist with specific training in aromatherapy is advised to prepare and apply essential oil blends, the following suggestions are easily incorporated into a session:

· Blend orange, peppermint and chamomile oils for a general digestive massage oil blend.

· When massaged into the abdomen, a blend of chamomile and lavender oils can help ease abdominal cramping and gas pains.

· Heartburn can be relieved by massaging the abdomen with a blend of orange and chamomile essential oils.

*Only professionals schooled in blending should work with mixing oils. A blend always consists of a few drops of essential oils in one or several ounces of neutral carrier oil.

As the most potent part of a plant, essential oils are being increasingly recognized as possessing substantial healing power. Since they are absorbed by the skin and incorporated into the circulation, the skillful, topical application of essential oils can add another healing dimension to any bodyworker’s practice. Whether addressing abdominal pain, flatulence, bloating, nausea, heartburn or constipation, aromatherapy can help ease your clients’ digestive woes.

Posted by Editors of Natural Wellness at August 21, 2008 10:06 AM

Foods That Fight Afternoon Slumps

Do afternoon blahs leave you slumped over your desk like an unwatered houseplant? When that happens do you reach for a supersized vat of coffee and/or a calorie-packed sugar snack? There are much better options, whether you need a quick lift to keep you from nodding off in a meeting or something to keep you going for hours:

WATER: Sometimes what feels like fatigue is just dehydration (often made worse by too much coffee). Drink 8 ounces of water, take a quick walk around the block or the parking lot (fresh air is an energy booster, too), and then down another 8 ounces when you get back.

WATERMELON: Like cookies and candy, watermelon is high in sugar, which metabolizes quickly, which gives you a rush. But watermelon's way healthier: Instead of guilt, you get fiber, a hit of vitamins A and C, plus all that fresh, juicy flavor for almost no calories (fewer than 50 a cup). To make your new zip last longer, eat it with some protein and a little fat -- as in low-fat cottage cheese or a fistful of sunflower seeds.

BRAZIL NUTS: They're off the charts in mood-lifting selenium and strong in fatigue-fighting magnesium. Just six of these nuts give you 4 grams of protein and some healthy plant fats, a combo that will keep you going far longer than you'd think.

A MEXICAN BAKED POTATO: Spuds are high on the glycemic index -- that is, they give blood sugar a quick boost -- which is bad for people with diabetes but good in moderate doses for other people in need of an energy surge. Heap on some salsa and top with a dollop of low-fat sour cream to enhance the effect. Spicy foods are stimulating, and hot peppers wake up more than your taste buds.

A FEW DRIED DATES: They were traditionally used in the Sahara to provide quick energy to camels. Like potatoes, dates are a high glycemic snack, but rich in minerals, too -- especially potassium. Split the dates and fill with a tad of low-fat cream cheese to slow the sugar absorption.

PB&J ON WHOLE WHEAT: The all-American sandwich is also an all-around pick-me-up, thanks to its amazingly complete mix of carbs, good fats, protein, and whole-grain fiber. Just make it a one-slice fold-over to cut the calories down to about 200.

RealAge July, 2008

If you would like to know more about beating the afternoon "slumps", contact us for a free consultation. www.dolkarwellness.com/recipes

Soothe Yourself with This Pizza Topper

For a little bit of cell-soothing nutrition, add an extra sprinkle of these zingy flakes to your slice: oregano. That’s right -- oregano doesn’t just add pizzazz to your pizza sauce. It may have the power to prevent tissue-damaging inflammation, too.

The essential oils in oregano are rife with a substance called (E)-beta-caryophyllene -- or (E)-BCP for short. These compounds bind to certain cell receptors in a way that could mean less inflammation, according to mouse studies. Good news, since inflammation has been fingered in a bunch of bad health outcomes, from heart disease to cancer. Researchers suspect (E)-BCP may have a similar inflammation-fighting benefit in humans.

A Little Dash Will Do Ya? It’s not clear how much (E)-BCP is in oregano, but surprisingly, the lowest dose of the compound was often the most effective in a recent study. Black pepper, rosemary, and cinnamon all have the compound, too. When your spice shakers are on E, try these other inflammation-fighting foods, too:

Anthocyanin-packed cherries and berries
Omega-3-rich fish, like salmon and tuna
Flavonol-loaded dark chocolate
Oleocanthal-crammed olive oil
RealAge August 2008

At Dolkar Wellness, we can help you with healthy, delicious food menus....most prepared within 30 minutes or less.

REVEAL YOUR INNER GODDESS BY GOING BACK TO BASICS

Over 70% of American women are overweight and unhealthy because we live in a country that pushes processed foods, empty calories, saturated fats while it minimizes the importance of fresh fruits and vegetables. Because of this, our PH levels are totally out of balance which causes excess bloating due to inflammation. You know….that fat around our middle…this is called “false fat because it is caused by inflammation.

If we bring our bodies back into proper PH balance, everything will change. You’ll be healthier, shed excess weight, have more energy, feel younger…and be more radiant than ever! The most unbelievable thing is that getting there is easier and more enjoyable than you’ll ever imagine.

We at Dolkar Wellness have a phenomenal health plan which will help you take charge of your health and manage your PH. This plan actually takes you back to a carefree time – a pure time as free as the day you were born. When you make unprocessed, natural foods the cornerstone of your diet, you’ll love the way you feel and look.

We can guide you to eat your way to phenomenal health and beauty – not by starving and depriving yourself….but by enjoying “prepared in 30-minutes or less” culinary delights. Once you experience these healthy foods that look and taste like guilty pleasures, you won’t crave high-fat, highly processed foods any longer.

We can help you unlock the door to optimal health…all you need to do is walk through our virtual door. Contact us for a FREE CONSULTATION for new Clients in the month of August. Bon Appetite!

ESSENTIAL OILS - NOT JUST ANOTHER PRETTY FACE

In the beginning, oils and scents (aromatherapy) were used to anoint kings, queens and holy men. In fact, priests may have been the first to market them! Today, the healing properties of essential oils are simply a given. More and more we hear about their healing natures….as an alternative to western medicine. So how do we get the most out of this enchanting gift from nature?

Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of volatile liquid plant materials, known as essential oils. Inhaling them can affect your mood or health. The psychological effects of aroma can be rapid, and may be relaxing or stimulating. Essential oils may also be applied topically to the skin and may elicit a rapid physiological effect (i.e., cooling or warming).

There are no scents specifically associated with the seasons, though certain healing oils can be linked to the typical health issues that arise throughout the year. But we can look to Traditional Chinese Medicine to understand which organs tend to be out of balance during any given season. Summer dazeThe best approach for keeping cool in the summer is a combination of essential oils and hydrolats, or distilled plant waters that can be sprayed on the face and body. Wonderfully cooling hydrolats include neroli, rose otto and lavender. One spray is refreshing. Palmarosa, sandalwood, vetiver, neroli and cypress are more cooling scents.

Year round healing oils:

Yarrow is used to reduce joint inflammation and relieve cold and influenza symptoms.

Basil is used in perfumery for its clear, sweet and mildly spicy aroma. In aromatherapy, it is used for sharpening concentration, for its uplifting effect on depression, and to relieve headaches and migraines. Basil oil should be avoided during pregnancy.

Bergamot is one of the most popular oils in perfumery. It is an excellent insect repellent and may be helpful for both the urinary tract and for the digestive tract. It is useful for skin conditions linked to stress, such as cold sores and chicken pox, especially when combined with eucalyptus oil.

Black pepper has a sharp and spicy aroma. Common uses include stimulating the circulation and alleving muscular aches and pains. Skin application is useful for bruises, since it stimulates the circulation.

Clove is a topical analgesic, especially useful in dentistry. It is also used as an antiseptic and antispasmodic.

Finally, experts warn that it is extremely important that consumers know the quality of the oils they are purchasing. Many essential oils on the market are adulterated, meaning they contain both 100% pure essential oil as well as synthetic adulterates. These synthetic adulterates not only detract from the therapeutic qualities of the oil, but can also add stress to the body.
We at Dolkar Wellness use only the finest organic, 100% pure Young Living essential oils.

ORDER NOW: www.dolkarwellness.com/essoilspricelist

EAT HEALTHY AND SAVE MONEY

Do organics judiciously!

We know, we suggest and harp on organic options a lot – and for good reason. But in this economy, some organics count more than others in terms of your personal health. (Sure, we understand and support “organic” as a socially conscious consumer commitment, but not everybody can make that choice all the time.) Meats and high fat dairy, eggs, and soft skinned fruits and veggies are organic priorities. Other items not so much. In terms of personal health, a tomato should be organic (or at least hydroponic – which uses less pesticides), an avocado doesn’t matter as much. As for nut butters: buy raw if you can but forgo organic (except peanut butter) to save a few dollars. Or, buy an organic version for the kids and conventional for the adults in the house. And skip organic for items you use only occasionally like condiments.

-Mark Sisson's Daily Apple

If you would like some help with your healthy meal planning, contact us at

www.dolkarwellness.com/services

Grow Muscles with Peaches?

Getting toned arms and legs sounds like a job for Mr. Nautilus. But Mr. Peach? Maybe. Seems potassium-rich produce -- like peaches -- gives your muscles what they need to stay toned, healthy, and able to do their jobs. It's a BalanceA diet heavy in proteins and cereal grains can cause blood to become too acidic. When this happens, muscle tissue can waste away. Fruits and vegetables, though, make your body's pH more alkaline -- mostly thanks to their high potassium content. So it makes sense that people in a recent study who loaded up on potassium-rich produce had more lean muscle mass than their produce-shirking peers.

Some foods high in potassium:

Baked potatoes with skin – 1,082 mg
Baked sweet potatoes with skin - 694 mg
White beans ½ cup - 595 mg
Low fat yogurt – 8oz. - 531 mg
Beets – 1 cup - 519 mg
Banana - 422 mg
Kidney Beans ½ cup 328 mg
Peaches – 1 cup 323 mg
Raisins – 1.5 oz 322 mg
Blackberries – 1 cup 233 mg


Exercise, as we all know, is also very important to the strength and tone of our muscles. But my opinion is different than some folks. What does all the bulk and muscles do for us anyway….besides make us LOOK fit….that doesn’t mean we ARE fit. My approach to exercise it variable range of motion. Exercise the entire body with large, varying movements. This brings general health….not specific muscles.

Try a variety of exercise – rotating them every day…..ab work, then leg work, then some kundalini yoga….works for me! STRETCH….it feels so good!

For additional assistance contact us at www.dolkarwellness.com/services2

7 Classic BBQ Sides Dishes Made Healthier

Watching your weight as weekend parties abound can seem like a real drag -- but you don't have to munch on celery sticks while everyone else is chowing down on creamy potato salad this summer. Just lighten up some of those traditional side dishes with these speedy makeovers.

1. Corn on the cob: All you need to do here is dodge the butter. Corn's terrific with a squeeze of lime juice and a little salt. Or try brushing it with a little olive oil and sprinkling it with red pepper flakes. Or roll those ears in some mixed herbs like basil and oregano or ginger and curry powder. If you just plain like your corn buttered, use a little pure, organic butter – not the synthetic stuff. And….don’t feel guilty – just enjoy it! If you've lucked into just-picked, unbelievably sweet, fresh summer corn, do the most delicious thing of all: Eat it naked.

2. Cole Slaw: Miracle Whip is not that high in fat if you want a creamy slaw dressing…so use a little but take it easy. Or try some creamy dressing-free dishes like broccoli salad or zucchini salad (check out the recipes on my website - www.dolkarwellness.com.) The secret to a great slaw is to make it the night before, so the veggies have time to absorb the dressing's flavors.

3. Baked beans: The nutritional wonders of antioxidant-rich, protein-packed beans can be undermined by the fattiness of added bacon. Ditch the meat and you’ll trim off as much as 16 grams of fat per serving. Add chopped onion, bell pepper, and vegetarian bacon strips – you won’t miss the pork at all!

4. Potato salad: This picnic favorite is notorious for its high glycemic index (GI), which sends your blood sugar soaring. To keep it on an even keel, cook the potatoes the night before and refrigerate them. The next day, make the salad German style, using white vinegar and olive oil rather than mayo. Use 2 parts oil to 7 parts vinegar, and season with mustard, parsley, and just a smidge of sugar. The refrigeration combined with the vinegar creates some nifty kitchen chemistry: It neutralizes the potatoes' blood sugar hit.

5. Pasta salad: Instead of refined white pasta -- another high-GI, low-nutrient food -- use whole-wheat pasta, which has a lower glycemic index, filling fiber, and more good-for-you nutrients.

6. Chips and dip: Serve pretzels or baked chips, and dunk 'em in salsa or a spicy bean dip.

7. The dessert buffet: Start with watermelon -- it's traditional, irresistible, and remarkably healthy, too. If you're ambitious, scoop out the insides with a melon baller, then mix the melon balls with berries and mint leaves, and use the watermelon’s shell as a serving bowl.Or go for grilled fruit -- the heat heightens the flavors, and it's fun to do as the embers die down. Brush the grill with light vegetable oil to prevent sticking, then lay out bananas in their skin (sliced lengthwise), sliced peaches, pears, pineapple, papaya, cantaloupe . . . any firm fruit will do.

For extra zing, baste the fruit with 1 1/2 cups of orange juice that has been cooked over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until it's reduced by half. Add a little brown sugar if you like. Serve the warm fruit with frozen yogurt and nuts for healthy summer sundaes.

For a baked dessert, make an angel food cake -- it's naturally low-cal and goes great with grilled fruit -- or whip up an old-fashioned apple crisp (leave the peel on to retain the antioxidants and fiber). Not bad for a party dessert!The payoff? Avoiding foods with saturated and trans fats, simple sugars, or processed grains -- everything we've sidestepped with these simple makeovers -- can help you shed weight and feel healthier than you have in years.