It’s that time of year again where chocolates and roses and fancy dinners prevail. Everyone posts on social media about how much they love their partner, and while yes, of course, having a significant other is so special, we believe that ultimately self love is where it’s at. It’s really important to make sure you give yourself love and attention, too, because that’s truly how you’ll be able to give and love more with others. So how can you start to cultivate more self love this
month? Whether your single or committed or somewhere in between, we’ve got some tips for you.
This is the “ugly” side of self love. Or at least the boring side, in most cases. Real self love is about taking care of business now so you don’t have to worry about it later. Do the things you don’t want to do so your future self can relax and move on knowing it’s already done! File your taxes early. Fill out the paperwork you’ve been putting aside. Change the oil in your car. Clean out and organize the pantry. Those things you know you need to do? And that you’d be so happy
to see done? It’s time, love!
If you’re here reading this, you probably have a good grip on your health already, but it’s so important that we have to bring it up! Go to the gym, take a yoga class, get outside for a hike. Move your body every single day. This is seriously one of the most loving things you can do for yourself. Whatever it looks like for you, prioritize your wellbeing. Maybe you decide to finally work with a holistic wellness practitioner to get yourself on track for the year ahead. Maybe you just make sure you’re eating healthy, whole foods and getting plenty of high quality vitamins and minerals in your diet. And remember, we have your back when it comes to getting your daily dose of herbs in!
Treat yo’self, because pleasure is actually a necessity. We need to experience pure pleasure and fun in order to stay sane. It allows us to minimize stress and find joy in the little things. So make sure you’re not too hard on yourself this month (or ever, honestly)! Epsom salt baths, massages, dark chocolate, Netflix marathons, solo trips to the mountains, that dress you really want… whatever it might be that makes you feel good, go for it and don’t look back. Give yourself the space to enjoy the pleasures of life simply because you can and you deserve it. Life is meant to be lived, sis.
Remember, when we cultivate love and compassion for ourselves, we’re better able to share that with the rest of the world. And ultimately, that’s what it’s all about, right? So, especially this month, when there’s so much emphasis on relationships and loving others, remember that the first and most important relationship you have is with yourself. Take good care. <3
With love,
Emily
Welcome to Aquarius season, loves! We’re here until February 18th and we’re not looking back!
Aquarius is a fixed air sign, meaning the energy is determined and focused, but in a friendly, inventive way. It’s ruled traditionally by Saturn (which we talked about in Capricorn season) and in the modern world, Aquarius falls under Uranus— which governs things like originality, liberation, and expression. Here are some things to focus on during this time:
Aquarius is all about groups, teamwork, humanitarianism, and society. As an air sign, it’s extremely communicative and friendly, and we’re invited to bring more of that energy into our own lives now! So get out there and make connections with new people. Join some sort of meet-up group, or an online community that you vibe with, and share yourself with a new set of humans. The friendships and connections you make during Aquarius season are bound to be lifelong and fruitful.
Technology and communication are running high right now. How can you use that energy to move forward with your message? After all, Aquarius is extremely future-oriented, and everything it does is for the betterment of the future, especially for the collective. Last season we buckled down to integrate our morals, values, and truths into our daily lives, and began the deep work on living our legacy. Well, Aquarius season wants us to start sharing that with the world! Harness the power of social media and use your voice in a productive, inspiring way. Network within your community like nobody’s business and share your offerings with the world through events, newsletters, park meet-ups, vlogs, or whatever feels right for you!
Aquarius is a quirky, rebellious, free spirit. Forget the traditionally “correct” way to live your life and make your own path, even if no one else understands just yet. It’s the season of the visionary! If you’ve been sitting on a “crazy idea”, get a plan written up and dive into it!
Aquarius rules innovation and loves fun, new inventive designs. It’s the perfect time to expand your creativity and think outside the box. How can you embrace your originality and express your unique point of view through everything you do? The more you show your true colors, the happier you’ll be, and the more others will resonate with your message!
Doesn’t Aquarius season sound fun and exciting? We can’t wait to see what you all bring forth to the community within the next few weeks. Remember, it’s all about expressing your unique voice, being yourself, and expanding your circles. Looking for some herbs that will align you with the astrological season? Our Go Getter Bundle will give you the confidence and energy needed to forge ahead in true Aquarius fashion.
With love,
-Emily
About Emily O'Brien:
Emily is an Ayurvedic practitioner, yoga teacher, and mother with an overall “crunchy” approach toward life. Writing about what she’s learned throughout years of study is her favorite way to share with others. She hopes her articles can spark awareness and inspiration within readers to lead happier, healthier, more peaceful lives.
Find out more about Emily at https://www.emilyobrienwellnesscom/
Before we dive into the real good stuff, let's talk about the most important part of all of this!! When we refer to chocolate in this blog post, we are talking about DARK chocolate! This is very important because, the benefits mentioned below will have minimal to no effects if you have a bar full of sugar and dairy. The best kind is going to be a dark chocolate bar of at least 80% - for all the milk chocolate lovers out there, an essential tidbit of information is that consuming chocolate with dairy prevents the absorption of polyphenols meaning you wouldn’t actually be getting much benefit at all. A chocolate bar that is 80% or higher will typically contain no dairy (cocoa butter is NOT dairy) and much less sugar than your average candy bar - that bar will be your safest bet for store-bought chocolate.
If you choose the chocolate bar route, Stonegrindz and Lily's are Wild Sun's two ultimate favorites or you can enjoy it in a good dose of either our Afternoon Delight & Loco Cocoa Herbal Powder.
So, now that you know what kind of chocolate to enjoy, let's find out why we should be consuming MORE!!!
Theobromine, tyrosine, phenylethylamine, and anandamide are the four phytochemicals that are present in only raw cacao. In fact, they can easily deteriorate when roasted, so these stars are only applicable to raw cacao, which you can find in our Afternoon Delight & Loco Cocoa Herbal Powder. Let's dive into each one:
When it comes to raw cacao, it’s not just these powerful phytochemicals that are beneficial to our health - it is also the rich source of minerals such as magnesium, Sulphur, and chromium that intensify the health benefits as well.
Flavonoids & polyphenols are different types of antioxidants found in cacao. We will be focusing particularly on epicatechin, catechin, and procyanidin. They are essentially the stars of the show when it comes to cacao's powerhouse of nutrients, in fact, these babies are what gives cacao its clout for being one of the most potent, antioxidant-rich foods found on plant Earth.
Bitter is one of the 5 universal tastes, and one the the 6 tastes of Ayurveda (you can find more about that here!). It is a taste we all recognize, and if we are being honest, most Americans turn away from it, it is not really a preferred taste among many. It is, though, one of the most beneficial tastes for our bodies. Our bodies have bitter receptors throughout, not just in our mouths, and these sites have different benefits, depending on where they are located. The ones in our mouths tend to stimulate digestion as it promotes the secretion of saliva. The bitter receptors on our lungs regulate their innate immune defenses and with that, they decrease inflammation, increase mucous clearance, and directly kill bacteria. In traditional western herbalism, bitters are used for liver and gallbladder congestion, as they stimulate the production of bile and enhance detoxification through these accessory digestive organs.
That sums up our deep love for chocolate and why it is quite possibly the best food on the planet. Please share with us your favorite chocolate experiences and recipes below in the comments section!
Sending BIG Love,
Joey
]]>
-Emily
About Emily O'Brien:
Emily is an Ayurvedic practitioner, yoga teacher, and mother with an overall “crunchy” approach toward life. Writing about what she’s learned throughout years of study is her favorite way to share with others. She hopes her articles can spark awareness and inspiration within readers to lead happier, healthier, more peaceful lives.
Find out more about Emily at https://www.emilyobrienwellnesscom/
Hi loves! Welcome to Capricorn season!
Capricorn comes right after sweet and fun Sagittarius and brings a bit more seriousness into the air. The symbol for Capricorn is the sea goat— a half goat, half fish creature that is both deep and grounded. It’s a cardinal earth sign, meaning it initiates, especially in regards to worldly matters. Capricorn thrives when there is structure and order. Here are some ways to get the most out of this season.
Capricorn is ruled by Saturn, and Saturn is known as the teacher. If you’re familiar with Hinduism or yogic philosophy at all, Saturn can be likened to Ganesha in this way. We know Ganesha as the mover of obstacles, but he’s also the creator of them. Saturn, too, teaches by way of obstacles and limitations. These lessons tend to show up in our lives in very trying ways, and
the best way to get through them is by cultivating self-discipline and creating structure. It’s a good time to focus and concentrate on the work that needs to be done. What lesson is being thrown on our path right now? Embrace those struggles and tests. It’s necessary for your evolution.
Last season, we explored our morals and philosophies and came to better understand what it is we believe in and stand for. We were focused on growing, exploring, and expanding consciousness. Now Capricorn invites us to bring it all back in for reflection and maturation. In Capricorn season, we contract. We integrate our belief systems and morals into our daily life and mindset in a more meaningful way. Shave off the parts of your life that don’t align with the path
you want to be walking. It’s time to release those aspects that are distracting you from your purpose here. Get serious about your goals, intentions, and projects, and start living the life you envision for yourself.
Capricorn corresponds to the 10th house, which is all about vocation, career, external authority, and legacy. This season encourages you to double down on your life’s work. What are you on the earth to do? What’s your job here? Either continue to work toward actualizing that purpose or take the time to consider what it might be. (We all have one.) This season encourages you to take responsibility for the outcome of your life. You’ve arrived where you are now due to all the decisions you’ve made and actions you’ve taken up until this point. Humans are incredibly powerful beings, and Capricorn wants us to acknowledge that. This time gives us the push needed to use our power in service of the world. Hone in on that and make moves!
Capricorn season is all about integrity. So be true to yourself, be real with others, work hard, and stand up for what you believe in. Find a daily routine that emphasizes productivity and stick to it this season. Time to buckle down and get to work, friends!
With love,
-Emily
About Emily O'Brien:
Emily is an Ayurvedic practitioner, yoga teacher, and mother with an overall “crunchy” approach toward life. Writing about what she’s learned throughout years of study is her favorite way to share with others. She hopes her articles can spark awareness and inspiration within readers to lead happier, healthier, more peaceful lives.
Find out more about Emily at https://www.emilyobrienwellnesscom/
]]>
Welcome to Sagittarius season, loves! We had a pretty good Scorpio season, and hope you did, too. Luckily, regardless of how last season went for you, Sagittarius is here now with so much goodness to offer!
Sagittarius is ruled by Jupiter, which relates to expansion, growth, faith, and
optimism. Sag is a mutable fire sign and is known for being progressive, restless (both, physically and mentally), and inspired. It’s very yang energy!
Here are some tips for making this season the best it can be.
Sag is in the 9th house, which is all about personal beliefs, higher consciousness, education, travel (literal and metaphysical), philosophy, and religion. One of the main themes of Sagittarius season is truth and honesty. Reconnect to your own morals, ideals, and philosophies during this time. Question your beliefs, sift through your opinions and facts of the world, and check in with yourself that you’re living in a way that is truly aligned with what you preach. This is a good time to open your mind and consider other points of view as you dial in on your own philosophies, while respecting those that differ from yours. Our Connected aromatherapy roll-on is perfect for this!
Sagittarius is the traveler! Both literally and spiritually, Sagittarius brings new horizons to explore and grow from. This season encourages us to move forward and progress on a personal level by stepping out of our comfort zone on a regular basis. This is a great time to take that leap of faith in work, relationships, and new projects. What new mountain (or hill) can you climb today? Keep your eye on the bigger picture as you make moves toward your next level of self
discovery and success. Don’t worry, optimistic and friendly Jupiter is on your side! If you need a little extra oomph, our Go Getter Herbal Bundle is a literal godsend.
Since Sagittarius season is such a magnetic and expansive time, it’s perfect for making plans and goals for the future! Plant those seeds now, while the conditions are most fertile, and you’re bound to see great growth in the months to come. Be it a trip out of town, a lunch with new friends (Sag is super social!), mapping out action steps for a new project, or a shift in your overall life plans, now is the time to set the intention and put that baby on the calendar.
Sagittarius is often represented as the archer— aim at your target and shoot! The odds of you succeeding are top notch.
We love Sagittarius season, and not just because the holidays (and our birthdays…) are on the horizon. This is such a special time to expand and grow into the next greatest version of Self, in a space that feels light hearted, nourishing, and compassionate. Align with the energies of the season and you’ll come out the other side with stronger intuition, unyielding love of self and
others, and a deep-seated sense of security and joy. We could all use a little more of that this year, right?!
With love,
-Emily
About Emily O'Brien:
Emily is an Ayurvedic practitioner, yoga teacher, and mother with an overall “crunchy” approach toward life. Writing about what she’s learned throughout years of study is her favorite way to share with others. She hopes her articles can spark awareness and inspiration within readers to lead happier, healthier, more peaceful lives.
Find out more about Emily at https://www.emilyobrienwellnesscom/
Ginger is a common rhizome (continuous, horizontally growing root) that we are all mostly familiar with in one way or another. Whether it is your favorite part of sushi night, a key player in last week's stir fry, your favorite part of the pumpkin pie spice blend, or your chosen digestive tea... we have most likely all had our own experience with this pungent, warming rhizome.
Ginger grows naturally in tropical parts of Asia, mostly found throughout India, China, and Indonesia. It prefers a warmer and extremely humid climate. Ginger is part of the Zingiberaceae family of plants, some plants you may recognize from that family are turmeric and cardamom. You can actually find all three of these herbal superstars in our Stay Golden Herbal Powder, if you'd like to give them a try.
Today, we are going to get into some of ginger's most sought after benefits... Let's dive in.
Ginger contains several anti-inflammatory compounds, 2 of the most effective are called gingerol and zingerone. A PubMed study on 3 plants in the Zingiberaceae family explains, "Mechanisms of action include modulation of leukotriene and prostaglandin synthesis, and inhibition of NF-κB." Meaning, these components of the ginger root are able to regulate the lipids and chemicals in our bodies that cause inflammation at the site of pain. **Queue sheer amazement 🤩**
Women's health practitioner and advocate, Aviva Romm, MD, says, "Ginger is shown to be as effective as NSAIDs for relieving pain and inflammation, the dose is 500-1000mg, 1-2 times daily." If you don't know the term, NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are over the counter drugs like ibuprofen, advil aleve, etc.
In fact, ginger can be used at this dose, or even a bit higher to tame inflammation and pain caused by arthritis, muscle overuse, joint pain, tummy troubles (like IBS), post-surgery, and to all the ladies out there, it works superbly to reduce pain caused by periods.
Ginger, as you may know from personal experience, gets us SALIVATING! It is known to start the digestive process through smell and taste, from there it upregulates the secretion of digestive acids and even promotes bile production. It also helps to decrease intestinal gas and bloating and support the overall digestive process. All this wonderful support from a root that tastes good, too? Mother Nature is spoiling us <3
Ginger has been used in traditional medicines across the globe for centuries. One of its main uses being a strong, warming stimulant. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is used for weak pulse and ailments caused by cold, damp weather. In Ayurveda, it is used for heart disease to reduce clotting in the arteries. In Western tradition, it was used to break up congestion and is currently used as a circulatory enhancement in many herbal formulas. Donald Yance, CN, MH, RH (AHG) says ginger, "Significantly reduces serum and hepatic cholesterol levels and possesses potent cardiotonic activity. It is a well known synergistic herb that potentiates, harmonizes, and improves the deep circulation of other herbs."
Ginger has long been used for its anti-emetic properties and for its effectiveness in reducing the feeling of nausea and actual vomiting when it comes to motion sickness, morning sickness, and post-chemotherapy stomach upset. The chemical components that act specifically for the anti-emetic effects of ginger are the gingerols and shogaols. Effective doses vary and it is recommended to play with the dose after discussing using ginger for these reasons with your healthcare practitioner.
Ginger is BIG on the immune game, it is best to use its fresh root & fresh root juice to achieve optimal benefits from what it has to offer. It is great to boost overall immunity from a systemic level because, initially it works on the gut to cultivate a healthy climate for healthy bacteria to thrive in. Besides that, ginger is fantastic for breaking up mucus and phlegm, in Traditional Chinese Medicine it is used to "dissolve phlegm" and warms the lungs. In fact, Stephen Harrod Buhner (author of Herbal Antivirals) says he makes a ginger concoction (see below for recipe) at the onsite of a sore throat, drinks it throughout a couple days and the infection will end within just a few days. He also mentions that if it doesn't get rid of it entirely, it will at least protect the mucous membranes from potential damage.
STEPHEN HARROD BUHNER'S FRESH GINGER JUICE TEA
So spicing up your life with a little bit of ginger may be a really good idea for, well, just about every aspect of your health. Give it a try in our Stay Golden Herbal Powder and see all the wonders for yourself. If you are feeling like going all out, we dare you to make our Golden Ginger Molasses Cookie recipe and try to understand how they are so delicious and so healthy at the same time.
I hope you enjoy this read! Please share your favorite gingery recipe or any other comments in the space below!
Sending BIG love,
]]>
The Four Goals of Life is a valued concept in Hindu culture, and a key aspect of the philosophies behind yoga and Ayurveda. It’s said that when these four goals, or purusharthas, are sought after and achieved, a person leads a happy, fulfilled, and therefore successful life. By incorporating these goals into a daily practice, you’ll notice a greater sense of peace and purpose in your own
life. Each one builds on top of the other, so take it one step at a time.
Here they are:
Artha essentially means “wealth,” and it refers to material security. This is the foundational goal of having our basic needs met as humans. We need to be able to support ourselves and our family, and even other people as well, at least from time to time. It’s our innate right as humans to feel secure. You deserve, just as much as anyone else, to feel taken care of. You deserve to have all the things you need (i.e. healthy, fresh food, safe shelter, clean clothes, a good job, perhaps a car to get you to that job, etc.) so that you can focus on the bigger things like following your heart’s desires and digging into your Soul Work.
Remember, we may be spiritual beings, but we are having a human experience, so denying ourselves basic worldly needs is not recommended! If you have any sort of lack mentality, see if you can start working through that shadow. Give yourself permission to have and enjoy all the things you really need in order to thrive.
Kama means pleasure. It’s the goal of embracing the joy and pleasure of being human. Having desires is not a bad thing. In fact, it’s a necessary part of life (hence it making the cut for this ancient list!). Our desires give us drive. Even the smallest inclinations provide clues to the path we’re meant to take during our time on earth. Follow your heart, listen to your soul’s desires, and you’ll uncover your life’s purpose.
Life isn’t meant to be lived without fun or even occasional indulgence. We’re here to enjoy greatly and love deeply! We’re here to really live! Finding joy in daily life and fulfilling our deepest desires is an important aspect of fully coming alive as a human. We actualize our highest potential first by getting in touch with our desires, and then honoring them. But it's important to distinguish between pure desire and pleasure, which brings you closer to your truest soul essence, and your materialistic, ego pleasures which are superficial and fleeting by nature.
Dharma has many different definitions, but in this context, dharma means “life purpose.” This is something the human psyche has always yearned to understand. What are we here for?
Everyone’s dharma will look different, but ultimately, it will serve the greater good of humanity and the world at large. The goal of dharma is to find your life’s work and then give your everything to it. This may be your vocation or career, but not necessarily. Dharma is work that aligns with your moral values, lifts you up and makes you feel good, all while selflessly serving and enriching the lives of others. Basically, it’s a win for everyone!
Moksha means liberation. Becoming free from suffering is one of the biggest drives for taking on a spiritual path. We come to yoga, meditation, Ayurveda, and all other spiritual practices, looking for more connection with ourselves, the earth, and spirit. We want peace and freedom and answers.
Moksha is inner freedom; total liberation from worldly attachments and aversions. The aim is to maintain a deep seated sense of peace, regardless of what life throws your way. Moksha is the ultimate goal, as it essentially transcends this body and life by looking at the bigger picture.
You’ll still have ups and downs, of course, but you won’t be so shaken by them. You’ll know in the deepest part of your soul that everything is going to be okay. You can let go of your expectations, fears, and desires, and truly experience peace in the present moment. Moksha is a surrendering to the infinite. When you achieve this utmost sense of freedom, you will know peace from the inside-out, and nothing can take it away from you.
Which of the four goals do you feel you need to focus on most? Which one comes naturally to you? Let us know in the comments!
With love,
-Emily
About Emily O'Brien:
Emily is an Ayurvedic practitioner, yoga teacher, and mother with an overall “crunchy” approach toward life. Writing about what she’s learned throughout years of study is her favorite way to share with others. She hopes her articles can spark awareness and inspiration within readers to lead happier, healthier, more peaceful lives.
Find out more about Emily at https://www.emilyobrienwellnesscom/
Welcome to Scorpio season… and beware! Here in the Northern Hemisphere, we may be giddy about the crisp air, apple picking adventures, and pumpkin spiced everything right now, but remember Scorpio season, however exciting and festive, can have a bit of a sting to it! (It’s still our fav, though, not gonna lie.)
Scorpio is a fixed water sign, which means it’s deeply emotional, persistent, and magnetic. It’s associated with the 8th house and Pluto, AKA all things sex, intimacy, power, resources, debts, death, and perhaps most important of all, transformation— especially in regards to our relationships.
So it’s kind of a big deal. Here are some key elements to keep in mind as you stay afloat this season.
We all have a dark side and this is the time to dig deep into it. Scorpio has a tendency to trigger the shadow and then invites us to come to terms with our pain. If we don’t allow ourselves the opportunity to sit with the uncomfortable, scary parts of our own past and psyche, we allow it to fester and wreak more havoc in our life long-term. Scorpio season wants us to face our shadow, do the work around it, heal, and move on. So make space this season to let the difficult stuff surface. Take a yoga class, get involved in a moon ceremony, or create your own shadow work ritual that allows you to focus on your own self while consciously clearing out the emotional, energetic pieces that are holding you back. Breathe into it, look at it, write it down, shake it out, meditate on it, and send it off. Our Connected Aromatherapy Roll-On is the perfect addition to this work!
Scorpio needs deep, soulful connection, and one of the best places to do this is in the bedroom. Explore your intimacy, whether you have a sexual partner or not. Scorpio season is all about becoming raw, vulnerable, and totally seen. It’s where we expose our deepest secrets, our truest selves, and merge with one another in a holistic, magical, uninhibited way. Let yourself unravel a bit. Get to know your desires and don’t be afraid to act on them right now! This is the time to let down your walls, get personal, and get sexy! Our Big Love Bundle
will give you that extra oomph this season.
Scorpio is both the death and the rebirth; the Phoenix and its ashes. Out of Scorpio season comes the evolution of the soul. We spend time in our shadow work and uproot deep-seated beliefs, traumas, and fears. We unhook our personal reservations and up-level our core relationships. We build self confidence and gain personal magnetism. All of that is really beautiful, but it can only happen if we’re willing to say goodbye to our old way of being. Scorpio season brings on the death of our personal ego. It requires that we let go of our attachments and step forward without knowing the next move. We can’t evolve if we resist change, and sometimes that means saying goodbye to things that we don’t necessarily want to leave behind.
But this is a time of serious transformation. And if we hold on to something for too long, we just get dragged. So be brave and let go! The good parts will stick, and the best is waiting for you on the other side.
Scorpio season is a powerful one, loves! Are you ready for some serious up-leveling?! Stay
present, do the work, and drink your herbs. ;) You got this.
With love,
-Emily
About Emily O'Brien:
Emily is an Ayurvedic practitioner, yoga teacher, and mother with an overall “crunchy” approach toward life. Writing about what she’s learned throughout years of study is her favorite way to share with others. She hopes her articles can spark awareness and inspiration within readers to lead happier, healthier, more peaceful lives.
Find out more about Emily at https://www.emilyobrienwellnesscom/
We’re in vata season, friends! But what does that mean? In Ayurveda, it’s understood that thefive elements (earth, water, fire, air, and ether) are the foundation for everything in the universe, including our own minds and bodies. The elements are then combined and further broken down into what we call the doshas; the three physical, tangible forces that establish specific qualities,
tendencies, and behaviors within our own mind-body, as well as the natural world around us.
They are vata (air and ether), pitta (fire and a smidge of water), and kapha (earth and water).
Vata season is autumn. It arrives during the transition from summer to fall, when the winds pick up, the air cools down, the flowers start to fade, trees become bare, and animals begin to harvest for winter. And it lasts until early-to-mid-winter, when kapha season starts to kick in.
Ayurveda medicine is founded on the fact that “like attracts like and opposites pacify.” The qualities of vata season are dry, cold, rough, flowing, unstable, subtle, and light. When these qualities are in excess or get out of hand, they wreak havoc within us (think colds, flus, cracked skin, anxiety, depression, constipation, inability to concentrate, insomnia, etc.). If we’re not mindful of the transition happening within nature and our own bodies, vata season can shock our immune system and throw us out of balance.
And nobody wants to be sick or gloomy during fall. After all, it’s the most wonderful time of the year, am I right?!
By slightly shifting our daily habits at this time to pacify those qualities, we can align our mind-body with autumn and stay healthy, grounded, and peaceful the whole season long.
Here are some simple ways you can keep your vata dosha balanced right now.
This one is HUGE! Food is powerful medicine. To combat vata’s dry, rough, cold, light qualities, eat foods that are warm, soft, hearty, and full of nutrition. Soups, stews, curries, chili, oatmeal, and kitchari should be a household staple during fall season. Focus on grains like rice and root veggies like potatoes, yams, carrots, turnips, parsnips, beets, turmeric, ginger, and garlic. Broccoli, cauliflower, kale, and other leafy greens are great during this time too. If you shop at your local farmers market, this is essentially what should be available anyway! (Remember, local, seasonal foods are best for your health!) Our warming, grounding Stay Golden Herbal Powder is going to be your number one go to during vata season!
Abhyanga, or Ayurvedic oil massages, are your best friend during the dry season of autumn! By practicing abhyanga every day or at least a few times a week, you’ll keep your skin and tissues moisturized, as well as strengthen your immune response by draining the lymph system and improving circulation in general. Abhyanga is an incredible self-care tool that cultivates love and
gratitude for your body. The best oils to use will depend upon your dominant/imbalanced dosha, but sesame seed oil is a nice choice to pacify the qualities of vata dosha. We’ve talked about abhyanga in previous blog posts, so if you’re not sure how to do it, go here for a quick tutorial!
Routine is so incredibly important throughout the entire year, but especially during vata season. Vata dosha does extremely well when there is regularity within your schedule. Try to create a daily routine and stick to it. Cultivate sacred, joyous rituals in your normal life that bring you a sense of ease. Here’s an example of a daily routine: Rise before the sun, scrape tongue, practice
yoga and meditation, do your oil massage, and bathe. As the day goes on, do your work with gratitude and take breaks when you need to. Mindfully cook and eat three meals (inspired by the foods above) at the same time every day. Relax in the evening with your loved ones. Go to bed before 10pm.
You know we had to put this one in here. We’re in love with herbal remedies! Drink more hot herbal tea during vata season to keep your body hydrated and mineralized. Some great plants to incorporate into your daily life at this time are elderberry, ginger, olive leaf, chaga, reishi, cacao, turmeric, cinnamon, clove, goji berry, and eleuthero. Luckily, our herbal blends are filled with amazing immune boosting, mind-body supportive ingredients like these, so we’ve got you
covered there.
These simple tools will keep you balanced and well during vata season. Practice them and feel the difference yourself! If you have questions, comments, or concerns regarding anything in this post, please feel free to drop a comment or send us a private message. We’re here to support you in all the ways we can.
Cheers to your health!
With love,
-Emily
About Emily O'Brien:
Emily is an Ayurvedic practitioner, yoga teacher, and mother with an overall “crunchy” approach toward life. Writing about what she’s learned throughout years of study is her favorite way to share with others. She hopes her articles can spark awareness and inspiration within readers to lead happier, healthier, more peaceful lives.
Find out more about Emily at https://www.emilyobrienwellnesscom/
]]>
Happy Libra season! We’re officially out of Virgo’s practical, analytical, organizational vibes and have shifted into Libra’s balancing, harmonious energy. Yay! Libra is all about justice, peace, and equality, particularly in relationships and partnerships. Here are a few ways you can align with the energy of Libra season and get the most out of this time.
Libra’s astrological symbol is that of the balancing scales. This is the time to find a happy balance between work and play, exercise and rest, and yin/yang energy in general. Libra is the cardinal air sign that instigates Autumn, so it’s time to often up on that summery, vibrant Virgo energy and be a little more gentle with yourself. A big weather shift is upon us, which means it’s important to hone back in and re-calibrate a bit. This is the perfect time to commit to a gentle Ayurvedic cleanse to reset the body and mind. Better yet, since Libra is centered around
relationships, get your family and friends to join you! It could be a great opportunity to grow closer… and have moral support! Our Rooted Aromatherapy Roll-On will help you stay grounded and centered during this seasonal shift.
Libra is the peacemaker. Tie up loose ends, get closure, apologize, forgive. Be the person who you needed during your darkest times. Be the one who helps heal a situation, rather than salt old wounds— your own or otherwise. If there is any resentment in your current relationships, find a way to civilly discuss and resolve them. This is the time to rise up into a kinder, more generous, patient, compassionate version of yourself. There’s no more room for holding onto a past that is hurting you. It’s time to heal and liberate. Libra is ruled by the planet Venus, which relates to beauty, harmony, justice, and love. Embody those themes. Everywhere you go, embrace the beauty and do one small thing to leave it a little sweeter. Our Connected Aromatherapy Roll-On is perfect for this high vibe, peaceful Venus energy!
Libra rules the 7th house, which is all about relationships and partnerships. This is a great time to focus on your family, friends, and coworkers. How are your relationship dynamics? Since Libra is all about balance, we have a great opportunity here to notice where the scales might be tipped a little too far in one direction.
Do you give more than you receive in your relationships, perhaps to the point of resentment or burnout? Are you being taken advantage of at work or in your home life? Or are you too often taking your job and your loved ones for granted? We’re called to balance the scales of power, control, equality, and creative input now. Get everyone on equal grounds! Libra encourages us to build healthy, loving, balanced relationships with everyone in our life. Our Loved Aromatherapy Roll-On will be your best friend for this!
This is a very important season! If we can focus on creating balance within ourselves and our relationships we’ll be setting ourselves up for a successful, joyful future. Take some time to meditate on where in your life the scales are uneven, and communicate with your people on productive ways to make everyone feel worthy, cared for, and satisfied. Enjoy your Libra season!
With love,
-E
About Emily O'Brien:
Emily is an Ayurvedic practitioner, yoga teacher, and mother with an overall “crunchy” approach toward life. Writing about what she’s learned throughout years of study is her favorite way to share with others. She hopes her articles can spark awareness and inspiration within readers to lead happier, healthier, more peaceful lives.
Find out more about Emily at https://www.emilyobrienwellnesscom/
]]>
For the past several years, we’ve been practicing Intuitive Eating over here at Wild Sun Wellness. What does that mean? Basically, we’ve said goodbye to diets, rules, or guilt regarding our food choices. We eat what we want, when we want, and we feel good about it.
But that doesn’t mean we’re eating a bunch of junk food every day. On the contrary!
The truth is, our body knows exactly what it needs in order to be healthy, happy, and balanced. It has the wisdom and power of the natural universe in it, and it works endlessly for us so that we can thrive at greatest capacity under all conditions. It’s seriously amazing.
If we can quiet our mind and the outside noise, dig into the primal language of the body, and act in a way that aligns with it, we’ll be on track to achieving ultimate health and wellness in our own personal life, regardless of what anyone else says. Because everyone is different. Some bodies do great with grains; others not so much. Some bodies thrive on fruit; others can’t handle it. Animal products can be nourishing for some people while causing total chaos for others. Nothing is right for everyone all the time.
***There is one guideline we believe everyone should try to stick to: eating real, natural, whole foods that are minimally processed at least 90% of the time. Bonus points if it’s local!***
So. How do you find out what your body really wants and needs? Here’s what’s worked for us.
Even if it’s only five minutes, or even five full deep breaths to start. Before you eat, when you start to feel hungry, pause and feel. Connect with your body. Notice the sensations that are arising within you, and then consider several different food options. Ask your body what it wants. The more in tune you become, the more you’ll notice your body’s response to each option you present to it, even if the presentation is just a thought. This part might take a while to get the hang of, especially if you haven’t spent much time connecting to your body in this way before.
After you eat, once your food has settled just a bit, close your eyes again and reflect. How does the body feel now? Nourished, yet light and awake? Still hungry or unsatisfied? Sluggish or tired? Does your mind feel clear and present or dull and foggy?
These are all signs of whether the meal worked for you or not. It may take a little bit of time to make the right food choices for your body. Be patient with yourself and keep practicing!
Write down all the foods you eat and make notes of your meditations. Write down what you thought your body wanted, what you ended up eating, and how you felt afterward. Note your digestion and elimination functions following meals. This will help you start to see patterns— maybe after a few weeks you realize your body and mind always feel fatigued after eating bread. Okay! Now we know intellectually that bread probably isn’t the best option at this time, so we
can take a break from it and see how the next couple weeks go. We can also pay close attention to how our body reacts when we offer it bread so we can start learning its language more efficiently.
Practice yoga every morning. The effects of your food choices from the day before will reveal themselves very quickly! Being physical with your body and pushing your limits (in a mindful, loving way) will highlight the kinds of foods that are serving your body’s performance for ultimate health and wellness. And, of course, it’ll help you see (and feel) the foods that are causing you more physical stress. (Write down your findings in your food journal!)
This one always trips people up. First, we need to state that if you KNOW you have an allergy to, let’s say eggs, please don’t eat eggs! But the rest of it? The things you’re not eating because someone else said it’s bad for you? Not off limits anymore.
That could mean maybe one meal you eat raw vegan. Another meal you eat paleo. And yet another you’re putting cheese on your sourdough sandwich. No rules! (And if you haven’t tried our amazing adaptogenic desserts yet… do yourself a favor and check them out. They’re made with real, whole foods and our herbal powder blends. We also encourage you to do your meditation and food diary practice around our herbal supplements, so you can see just how beneficial they really are for the mind-body-soul!)
The only thing you want leading your decisions when it comes to food is your own inner knowing and your body’s reaction to foods. Turn your awareness inward. If nothing is off limits, if there are no judgements, rules or diets to follow, what would really serve your body right now? It’s important to keep your meditation and food diary consistent because this new terrain might be a little murky in the beginning, especially if you’re coming at this as a long-term dieter or strict eater! Eventually, you’ll know the perfect meal for your present situation and it’ll a be a breeze to choose it.
The basis of intuitive eating is cultivating a healthy, compassionate relationship with yourself. You’re an intuitive eater when you listen to the wisdom of your body, trust in that wisdom above all else, and answer its call. This can be tough in the beginning, but with consistent practice, patience, and self love, it is totally possible. Before you know it, you’ll be eating in a way that serves your highest good— every single time.
With love,
-Emily
About Emily O'Brien:
Emily is an Ayurvedic practitioner, yoga teacher, and mother with an overall “crunchy” approach toward life. Writing about what she’s learned throughout years of study is her favorite way to share with others. She hopes her articles can spark awareness and inspiration within readers to lead happier, healthier, more peaceful lives.
Find out more about Emily and her beautiful work at https://www.emilyobrienwellness.com/
Did you enjoy this blog? Please share with friends and family that you feel can benefit from learning about intuitive eating! We would also LOVE to hear from you, please let us know your experience with intuitive eating in the comments below!
]]>Hey friends!
Today we’re saying goodbye to Leo season and embracing the Virgo energy all
around us! We hope your Leo season was everything you needed and more (it definitely was for us!), and now it’s time to shift gears a bit. Virgo season is August 23rd to September 22nd, and it’s all about organization, analytical consideration, structure, health, and contribution. It really contrasts that playful, childlike Leo energy we’re coming out of! Here are some tips for making
the most out of this season.
It’s time to get those messy parts of life sorted out. Virgo thrives on practicality and productivity, so take some time to analyze your current life situations. What’s working? What have you been putting on the back burner? Where in your life is there room for greater structure and order? It might be tightening up your schedule, minimizing your wardrobe or cleaning out those junk drawers. It might even be putting boundaries up around toxic relationships that are distracting
you from achieving your greatest potential. This is the time to get serious about where you’re going in life and how you’re going to get there. If you don’t already use a daily planner, Virgo season is a great time to start!
Virgo is ruled by the 6th house, which is the house of health. Hopefully we’re always prioritizing our health in day to day life, but sometimes other things (work, family, etc.) take precedence, and understandably so. Life is busy and nobody is perfect. If you’ve fallen off the wellness wagon, Virgo season is the perfect time to get back on track. Recommit to your health now. Amp up your self care practices, stick to an exercise routine, eat more fresh veggies, hydrate your body, and try out our herbal supplements so you can show up as your best, most vibrant self this season.
Service is a huge component of Virgo. While it’s imperative that we focus on organizing our lives and prioritizing our own health, Virgo is really encouraging us to live in a way that serves the greater good of our community. In a big way, Virgo’s efforts toward wellness and self management are driven by the fact that when we feel our best, we can make a greater impact in the world. When we take care of ourselves, we can show up for others with presence, compassion, and support. So yes, work on your own stuff, but help other people work on theirs
too. Step up for a friend in need, volunteer at a shelter, write that e-book, or spend the whole afternoon totally focused on quality time with your kids. Service can look like so many different things. Show up and contribute however you can during this season.
We are more connected to the stars and planets than most of us realize. The more we align with the cycles of the earth and the themes that arise with them, the more harmony we’ll experience in our life. We aren’t separate from nature— we are nature. When we acknowledge that, we can flow effortlessly through the seasons with peace and patience. Life is good, and everything happens as it should, when it should.
Happy Virgo Season! <3
With love,
-Emily
About Emily O'Brien:
Emily is an Ayurvedic practitioner, yoga teacher, and mother with an overall “crunchy” approach toward life. Writing about what she’s learned throughout years of study is her favorite way to share with others. She hopes her articles can spark awareness and inspiration within readers to lead happier, healthier, more peaceful lives.
Find out more about Emily and her beautiful work at https://www.emilyobrienwriter.com/
]]>
Goji berries are adaptogenic berries that truly are SUPER. They are super anti-inflammatory, super nutritive and super strengthening.
Goji berries, also known as lycium fruit are native to northern China. Lycium is a woody shrub that grows to be 1-3 meters tall. It is the mature berry that is harvested and consumed as food and medicine. This plant is part of the Solanaceae family of plants, the family that is also known as the nightshade family (which also includes peppers, tomatoes, potatoes, etc.). Traditionally used in Chinese medicine, these super berries were used to nourish Liver Qi, Kidney Qi, vital essence and blood.
Goji Berry is a key ingredient in our endurance building herbal powder: Power Hour for numerous reasons... Let's take a look:
Goji berries are packed with nutrients!! They contain high amounts of polysaccharides, carotenoids (SUPER antioxidants). Goji berries also contain avitamins B1 & a small amount of B12, betain, beta-sitoterol, and Vitamin C. (Yance)
Goji berries are full of carotenoids and flavonoids that help support eye health and vision through strengthening and stabilizing capillaries. These antioxidants also help to strengthen capillaries, veins and arteries throughout the entire body. These SUPER berries can also be consumed regularly to strengthen weak muscles and ligaments. (Winston)
As an adaptogen, goji improves nonspecific regulation of the endocrine and nervous system. This, in turn regulates stress hormones and supports the body in strenuous physical activity. On top of that, Goji is known to promote a healthy cardiovascular system by strengthening blood flow through stabilization of connective cardiovascular tissues.
A protein complex naturally occurring in Lycium has been studied and, according to Donald Yance, "may induce immune responses and possess potential therapeutic efficacy in cancer treatment." They are also known to enhance nonspecific immunity, which classifies them as an adaptogen.
Goji is also a great part in an herbal blend to support dry cough as it is a moistening herb and can help relieve lung dryness. (Winston).
Eating about a handful of goji berries a day, or enjoying a good dose of it through our Power Hour, will also help support healthy gut flora, balanced cholesterol levels, and support blood sugar regulation.
As you may have collected while reading this, Goji Berry can be an amazing addition to just about anyone's daily routine, further, it can highly benefit athletes and those who push themselves to their physical limits!
Now it's your turn, give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!
Sending BIG Love,
Joey
Resources:
https://www.herbalist-alchemist.com/shop-products/new-products/b4-adaptogens-herbs-for-strength-stamina
Hoffmann, David, 1951-, Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Rochester, Vt.: Healing Arts Press, 2003.
Svastha is a Sanskrit word that translates to being “established in the lower physical self and the highest soul Self.” It implies that in order to have perfect health, we must be fully in our body, grounded in the physical world, while simultaneously being deeply connected to, and established in, Spirit. One connection without the other is incomplete and imbalanced.
It sounds intense and maybe a bit intimidating. How can we consistently stay on top of nourishing our whole being, both physically and spiritually, when we have jobs and families and the everyday business of life to tend to?
Luckily, Ayurveda’s most prominent classical text, the Caraka Samhita, outlines what’s known as the “Three Pillars of Life.” The text states that when we align with these pillars, we create the foundation for a long, happy, and healthy life. These pillars are the basis for svastha, and they’re actually pretty simple to incorporate!
The gut is everything. Studies suggest there’s a direct correlation between the state of our gut microbiome and the overall health and well-being of our mind-body. An unhealthy gut can cause systemic, pathogenetic, and even mental diseases such as Parkinson’s, IBS, depression, and so much more. The food you eat becomes the tissues that make up your being, so it’s important to be mindful of your intake.
The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all diet. Not every food is “right” for every individual, even if it’s considered healthy by the vast majority. Eating food that fits your personal constitution is imperative to lasting health (a local Ayurvedic practitioner will be able to give you personal guidance on this!). While everyone’s dietary needs are going to vary based on their own physical make-up, here are a few general Ayurvedic guidelines that will aid in optimal nutrient absorption
and proper digestion — which is paramount to a healthy body and mind.
Tip 1: Stick to whole, unprocessed, local, and seasonal foods 90% of the time. Cook your own meals at home and try to make more things from scratch (bread, tomato sauce, salad dressings, etc.). A cheat here and there isn’t the end of the world. Balance is key! (Check out our recipes for some seriously yummy, wholesome treats.)
Tip 2: Make lunch (between 10am-2pm) your biggest meal of the day. That’s when your digestive fire (agni) is at it’s peak, so the body is more capable of transforming that food into nourishment.
Tip 3: Eat only until you’re about 2/3 full. Consuming too much in one sitting causes the body to become overwhelmed and sluggish. Give your stomach some space (literally) to effectively process meals. Plus, if you pause when you think you’re “still hungry,” chances are a few minutes later you’ll realize, actually, you feel pretty full! (And if you’re still hungry after a few minutes, by all means, please go eat more! It’s really just a matter of slowing down and
communicating with your body during the process of eating. We are naturally designed to feel full after a meal and have space in our bellies still. This is not about starving or restricting ourselves at all.)
Ever wonder why you sleep so much more when you’re fighting an infection? Sleep is absolutely essential for your well-being. Unfortunately, it’s often overlooked in our fast-paced, go-getter lifestyles. Research shows us that getting proper sleep each night drastically improves both mental and physical health. When you sleep, your body goes into repair mode, where it is able to detoxify, heal, and destress. It even regulates hormones and metabolism, aiding in healthy
weight, digestion, and more.
At the same time, your mind uses the downtime to assess and absorb recent impressions it’s taken in, and transforms experiences into knowledge. That means sleep enhances memory, improves mental and emotional stability, and resets the nervous system. Adults should do their best to get an average of eight hours of sleep every night in order to fully show up during waking
hours. Here are some simple sleep guidelines from the Ayurveda experts:
Tip 1: Begin wrapping up your day around 6pm, when kapha energy (slow, heavy, calm) begins to rise. Do your best to finish your work for the day before then so you can let go mentally as well. Minimize screen time and artificial lights, and focus on soothing activities such as reading,
enjoying a hot bath, or chilling out with family.
Tip 2: Take our Slumber Party Herbal Powder to support your body and mind in achieving deeper, more restful sleep every night. It’s best to fall asleep before 10pm, when pitta energy (productive, powerful, transformative) begins to rise, which can give you a second wind and disturb your quality of sleep for the night. However, if we fall asleep before 10pm, that productive pitta energy is put to good use by healing the body and mind in the ways mentioned
above.
Tip 3: Wake up by 6:00 am. If you can, go outside to watch the sunrise to get the proper hormones flowing through your body. During the summer this may be more challenging as the sun can rise very early! It doesn’t have to be super rigid, but getting out of bed (and stepping outside) no later than 6:00 am is generally a good rule of thumb.
Many people know this word as “celibacy.” While that’s not entirely incorrect, it’s also not the whole picture. The actual translation of brahmacharya is “walking with God” or “actions that are consistent with the Creator.” Think of it like this: we are all creators, co-creating with the universe every single moment. You’re either spending your precious energy in a way that serves the well-being of yourself and the world, or you’re not. Brahmacharya is living with consciousness and discipline. Discipline isn’t a bad or repressive practice. In fact, when we are able to practice self-discipline, we find more freedom.
Brahmacharya gives us more time to enjoy the small things, greater health and energy to experience life on a daily basis, and the capacity to be more successful in our work. It brings fulfillment, inspiration, and balance to all things.
Here are a few tips for practicing Brahmacharya:
Tip 1: Stay consistent with the first two pillars! (Wink wink.)
Tip 2: Create without attachment to the outcome. Paint, write, sing, dance, cook… whatever. It could even be creating curriculum or software! If it sparks something inside you, make it. And get loosey-goosey with it— make things solely for the sake of creating. Because you can. Because it’s fun. Because there is an artist in all of us, waiting to be actualized. Who knows? You might end up with a masterpiece.
Tip 3: Give. To yourself, your family, your community, and the earth. Offer your love. Be of service. And be yourself. We need you that way.
When we boil things down, we can see that perfect health lies in the beauty of simplicity. Proper food, a good night’s sleep, and conscious, disciplined, creative living are the gateway to a holistically healthful life. Align with the above practices and experience svastha for yourself.
With love,
-E
About Emily O'Brien:
Emily is an Ayurvedic practitioner, yoga teacher, and mother with an overall “crunchy” approach toward life. Writing about what she’s learned throughout years of study is her favorite way to share with others. She hopes her articles can spark awareness and inspiration within readers to lead happier, healthier, more peaceful lives.
Find out more about Emily and her beautiful work at https://www.emilyobrienwriter.com/
]]>
About Emily O'Brien:
Emily is an Ayurvedic practitioner, yoga teacher, and mother with an overall “crunchy” approach toward life. Writing about what she’s learned throughout years of study is her favorite way to share with others. She hopes her articles can spark awareness and inspiration within readers to lead happier, healthier, more peaceful lives.
Find out more about Emily and her beautiful work at https://www.emilyobrienwriter.com/
Eleuthero is a crowd favorite over here at Wild Sun, and it is a prime ingredient in our Power Hour Herbal Powder and wow, is it ever awesome!
Sometimes known as Siberian ginseng, Eleuthero is a well-known adaptogen that improves several functions of the body. This plant is part of the Araliaceae (Ginseng) Family of plants and the plant part most often used and most abundantly researched is the root of the eleuthero shrub. Eleutherococcus senticosus is found in the Taiga region of Russia (East Siberia) and is the most potent version of all the eleutheros. Although, it does have several cousins that work similarly and grow throughout other regions of Russia and through Northern Asia, today we will be talking about the wonderful actions and benefits of mighty Eleuthero.
Being very well-studied, eleuthero has been recognized as a root that exhibits anti-stress effects throughout the body. According to Donald Yance, "Eleuthero is believed to support adrenal gland function when the body is challenged by stress", in fact, he goes on to say that Eleuthero increases hormones noradrenaline and serotonin to encourage quick recovery from acute stress and that is regulates overall endocrine function. Essentially, "it enhances the ability to energize and mobilize the protective mechanisms of the body." ... Which brings us to our next bullet point...
Eleuthero was one first herb to be coined an "adaptogen" in the mid 1900s because of its normalizing effects on several systems in the body, particularly in the endocrine system (including several glands & the hormones they secrete) and the immune system. A normalizing effect means that if a part of the body/ system is working at a subpar level, it will help give it the boost it needs to get back on track, OR if the body/ system is overworking itself, it provides the support to bring it back to its normal, balanced state.
Who doesn't want increased stamina and enhanced mitochondrial activity when it comes to training or overworking your body? Eleuthero is a star at supporting the body in recovering quickly and effectively from harsh training and intense workouts. It can also be applied to those who go, go, go! Stamina is stamina, whatever shape it comes in, and when you have a crazy busy schedule, eleuthero will be your best friend.
Eleuthero strengthens overall immunity by regulating the immune system, protecting and enhancing it. It is widely known as a disease-preventative herb because if its antiviral actions in the body. Yance says, "The anabolic effects of eleuthero contribute to an enhanced immune system response. The extract increases general immunogenesis and in particular interferon production and is thus antiviral." It is also known to be protective against cancer cells because of its ability to enhance the immune response to cancer.
There have been studies that show that extracts of eleuthero show neuroprotective effect along with showing the ability to regenerate neurities and rebuild synapses in rats with damaged neurons by beta-amyloid. The part of eleuthero that can be attributed to these actions is Eleutheroside B. Although, the entire root extract plays a role in overall neuroprotective health through anti-inflammatory actions.
I hope you enjoyed this post on Eleuthero, one of our fav adaptogens here at Wild Sun Wellness! Have you ever tried Eleuthero? What did you notice? How did you like it? Let us know in the comments below :)
Sending BIG Love,
Joey
Resources:
https://www.herbalist-alchemist.com/shop-products/new-products/b4-adaptogens-herbs-for-strength-stamina
Hoffmann, David, 1951-, Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Rochester, Vt.: Healing Arts Press, 2003.
We’ve put together three easy DIY face masks that will leave your skin smooth,
hydrated, and clear. All the ingredients are clean and actually good for you! And the best part is:
If you’ve already got your WSW herbal powders in your pantry, you’re halfway there!
Before we jump into the recipes, here are a few of the health and beauty benefits of the ingredients we used.
BENEFITS OF RAW HONEY:
Honey is anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial, which means it promotes clean, healthy skin and prevents acne. Plus, when it’s 100% pure and raw, it’s a great exfoliator. Yes, please.
BENEFITS OF YOGURT:
Yogurt is cooling and soothing for the skin. It hydrates, softens, and helps to prevent breakouts. Some research even shows yogurt helps to reduce wrinkles and signs of aging.
BENEFITS OF ALOE VERA:
Aloe vera has been a fan favorite throughout history. With it’s anti-inflammatory, hydrating, and healing properties, it’s no wonder aloe is in so many cosmetic products.
BENEFITS OF LEMON JUICE:
Lemon juice is powerful! You only need a small squeeze to experience the brightening, cleansing, and toning effects it has on your skin. Add lemon juice to your face mask to reduce pigmentation and get that fresh, clean feel.
BENEFITS OF ROSEWATER:
Rosewater is commonly used in Ayurveda skincare and beauty regimens. It helps your skin maintain a healthy pH balance, and the anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties reduce redness, acne, psoriasis, and other skin issues.
BENEFITS OF AVOCADO:
Avocados are full of fatty acids that support healthy, soft skin. Research has shown that avocados reduce signs of aging and accelerate wound healing. They also provide important vitamins and minerals which, when applied directly to the face, give your skin that fresh, dewey look.
BENEFITS OF OUR HERBAL POWDERS:
It’s a running list, really. Each herbal powder that we offer is a unique blend of powerful plants that promote health and well-being from the inside out. The ingredients are purposefully used together to enhance one another’s medicinal properties. They’re anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic, and altogether rooted in wellness. By consuming them as tasty drinks AND incorporating them into your skincare routine, you’re getting double the goodness.
Without further ado, here are three face masks you can make at home today!
INSTRUCTIONS:
With each one, mix ingredients until blended into a thick paste. You may need to adjust the measurements of each ingredient to make the perfect amount of thickness for your own preference. Apply mask evenly on clean face, keeping out of the eyes. Leave on for about 10 minutes, then wipe off with a clean, warm washcloth.
Power Hour Mask
Cleanse | Invigorate | Awaken
1 tsp Power Hour Herbal Powder
1/2 tbsp honey
1/2 tsp rosewater
Stay Golden Mask
Cool | Soothe | Brighten
1 tsp Stay Golden Herbal Powder
1 tbsp yogurt (Greek, whole fat, or coconut— no added sweeteners!)
1 tbsp aloe vera gel (preferably straight from a plant or at least 100% pure)
1/2 tsp lemon juice
*use this one at night because the turmeric might stain your skin for a little while :)
Loco Coco Mask
Nourish | Hydrate | Soften
1 tsp Loco Coco Herbal Powder
1/4-1/2 avocado, mashed
1/2-1 tsp rosewater
Let us know if you try one of these recipes, or if you have your own! We’d love to hear from you.
With love,
-E
About Emily O'Brien:
Emily is an Ayurvedic practitioner, yoga teacher, and mother with an overall “crunchy” approach toward life. Writing about what she’s learned throughout years of study is her favorite way to share with others. She hopes her articles can spark awareness and inspiration within readers to lead happier, healthier, more peaceful lives.
Find out more about Emily and her beautiful work at https://www.emilyobrienwriter.com/
]]>
A new astrological season is upon us! Cancer season begins on the summer solstice (June 21st) and ends July 22nd. It’s all about inner feelings, personal needs, and emotional nourishment. Cancer is in the 4th house, which rules our home and family life. That means this is a time to focus on home; both our ancestral roots, physical living spaces, and closest relationships (including the one we have with ourselves). Here are some themes to incorporate throughout Cancer season. Focus on these, and you’ll make the best out of this time.
Like, really, really get in there. Cancer is ruled by the moon, which is moody, intuitive, and powerful. Feel your feelings and follow your instincts. Cancer season lights up our intuition and emotional sensitivity. It connects us to our deepest personal needs and gives us the opportunity to work through patterns and beliefs that are no longer serving us. This is the time to get uncomfortable and dig deep. So take the opportunity to regularly go within and allow your subconscious to show you where you need to let go, heal, and rise up. We recommend using our Slumber Party herbal powder to make this a gentler season on your nervous system.
Cancer is commonly seen as the mother archetype; nurturing, protective, and feminine. Cancer season invites us to become softer, to hold ourselves and our loved ones in fierce compassion and acceptance. It deepens our capacity to listen and really hear, without bias, like a mother soothing her child. But the Cancer archetype is simultaneously seen as that little child. Remember, Cancer season is extremely sensitive and emotional. It calls out our needs to be seen, heard, and cared for. So open up and hold space. Give and receive. Be the mama for someone, just like you’ll need someone to love and support you as you work through your own struggles. If you need a little extra motivation and support, our Zen Soul Aromatherapy pack will be your best friend.
Since Cancer rules our home life, let’s focus on that this season. This is the perfect time of year to make your house a home. Prioritize nurturing your family relationships. Start a game night. Cook dinner together. Go for family walks.
A comfortable home is super important for your ultimate wellness, so find ways to give your living spaces more attention. Maybe you add a new blanket or plant to create a cozy atmosphere. Maybe you treat yourself to a cute new mug to start off your mornings with a little extra goodness. Whatever speaks to you. Our homes should be our place of refuge, creativity, and joy. How can you make your home reflect those qualities, both within the physical space, as well as in your relationship dynamics?
When we align with nature, incredible things happen. The seasons, stars, and planets provide us the perfect blueprint for how we can best show up during any given time. The more we can tune in to that wisdom, the greater our sense of peace, purpose, and wellness will be. Wishing you all the best Cancer season ever. You got this!
Enjoy this post? Let us know in the comments below. We would LOVE to hear from you <3
With love,
-E
About Emily O'Brien:
Emily is an Ayurvedic practitioner, yoga teacher, and mother with an overall “crunchy” approach toward life. Writing about what she’s learned throughout years of study is her favorite way to share with others. She hopes her articles can spark awareness and inspiration within readers to lead happier, healthier, more peaceful lives.
Find out more about Emily and her beautiful work at https://www.emilyobrienwriter.com/
]]>
Here at Wild Sun Wellness, we are passionate about passionflower!! This herb is has been used in traditional herbal medicine for hundreds of years. Herbalists continue to use passionflower because of its wonderfully soothing effects on the nervous system. It falls under the herbal category of nervines, or nerve tonics, that are calming, relaxing and balancing to the nervous system.
Passionflower is a tropical vine that is native to South, Central and North America, and Southeast Asia. This is the same plant that the passion fruit comes from.
Passionflower is a key player in our relaxing herbal powder: Slumber Party, for several reasons... Let's dive in:
Passionflower is one of our best herbal allies for shutting off the mental chatter going on inside our heads. This is often a main concern for people who have extreme stress in their lives at any given moment - they just can't turn their brain off when their heads hit their pillows.
Passionflower supports the nervous system by reducing anxiety, a study hones in on the properties of the flavonoids and how they act once inside the body, "Along with other flavonoids, chrysin has been shown to bind to benzodiazepine receptors sites and acts as an agonist for GABA activity, especially at A type GABA receptors. This has an inhibitory effect on the brain, accounting for passionflower’s anxiolytic properties." Meaning that passionflower's flavonoids have been proven to reduce anxiety because they bind to the same receptors that a pharmaceutical anxiolytic would, they go into that receptor site and act similarly, but don't cause the same type of side effects that pharmaceuticals are known for. Kind of a win-win if you ask me.
According to Herbalist David Winston, Passionflower is the nervine with the most sedative effects. This is because of the alkaloids and flavonoids naturally occurring in the flower - they are Alkaloids: harmine, harman, harmol, harmaline, harmalol and passiflorine; Flavonoids: apigenin, homoorientin, isovitexin, kaempferol, luteolin, orientin, quercetin, rutin, saponaretin, saponarin and vitexen. (Hoffman). These chemical consituents work to depress the central nervous system and in turn, calm it down.
The best part about passionflower being sedative is that you wake up actually feeling refreshed, rather than feeling groggy or tired.
As mentioned above, passionflower has constituents that depress the central nervous system. Because of this action, passionflower tends to have antispasmodic effects while in your system. It has been traditionally used for nervous system disorders such as Parkinson's disease, seizures or hysteria. It can even be used for neuralgia and nerve pain. (Hoffman)
As you can see, Passionflower is very nurturing to the nervous system, and it is for this reason that it is a prime ingredient in our relaxing herbal blend. Go ahead - give it a try!
Sweet Dreams,
Joey
Resources:
https://www.herbalist-alchemist.com/shop-products/new-products/b4-adaptogens-herbs-for-strength-stamina
Hoffmann, David, 1951-, Medical Herbalism: The Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine. Rochester, Vt.: Healing Arts Press, 2003.
]]>
We believe holistic wellness should be easily accessible for everyone. That’s why we’ve put together this short list of self-care practices you can start today. These simple rituals come from Ayurveda, India’s holistic medicine system, and they’ll undoubtedly bring a greater sense of wellness and peace to your life. And the best part? They’re totally affordable.
Benefits:
As our bodies digest and detox overnight while we sleep, a residue of toxins, or ama, accumulate on the tongue. If you wake up in the morning and instantly drink water or coffee, you’re actually just sending that gunk back into your body, where it reabsorbs into your bloodstream and causes disease. Gross. Tongue scraping removes those toxins, while simultaneously improving digestion, stimulating the internal organs, and curing bad breath. You’ll also be able to taste your food better! Practice tongue scraping first thing every morning before you eat or drink anything— even water— to give yourself a little extra cleansing love.
You can purchase a tongue scraper online for fairly cheap, or just use a spoon from your kitchen.
---> Here’s a tongue scraper from a fellow conscious, female-founded company.
How to:
Scrape from the very back of your tongue, gently pulling the scraper forward, rinse off any ama and repeat 5-7 times. Once finished, rinse tongue scraper and place in a safe, dry place when finished.
Benefits:
In Ayurveda, oil is directly related to love. Giving yourself some solid TLC with an oil massage is the perfect way to kickstart your day. Besides the mental calm and inner peace it provides, abhyanga also improves circulation, lubricates the joints and internal organs, detoxifies the body, and even strengthens your immunity. It’s a win-win-win for the mind-body-soul.
How to:
If you know your dosha, use a body oil that corresponds with it. Otherwise, sesame oil is traditionally used. Pour a small amount (2-3 tbsp) into a bottle or jar. Heat your oil up by placing the bottle/jar under warm water for several minutes. This helps the oil seep into your body more efficiently.
Traditional abhyanga starts from the top of your head and moves down to the tips of your toes (you can skip oiling your hair/face if you want, but still massage these areas well). Apply even pressure that feels comfortable and kind. Use long, straight strokes along your limbs, and round circles on your body otherwise.
For your belly, it’s best to massage in circles starting at the bottom right, and moving up —> left —> down —> right again. This will support healthy digestion. And don't be afraid to spend extra time where needed and do what feels right for you. This is your self-care time, and in the end, there’s no “wrong” way to do it!
***You can do abhyanga before or after you bathe, depending on preference. The oil moisturizes your skin, so you can use it in place of body lotion. Your skin will soak up the oil fairly quickly. If you’re not into feeling oily, massage before bathing and rinse off in the shower/bath. You’ll still have a nice moisturized feel to your skin afterward.***
Benefits:
Ohhh so many! Research has shown meditation reduces stress, anxiety, and depression, while improving memory, focus, and even the capacity to love and heal. And it doesn’t even have to be a long session. Five dedicated minutes in the morning can set your day up for greater success and happiness.
How to:
Prepare a quiet, comfortable space. Sit in an easy position with your spine tall, either on the ground, a meditation cushion, or in a chair. Close your eyes and pay attention to your breath. As you inhale, mentally say to yourself, “I know I’m inhaling.” As you exhale, “I know I’m exhaling.” When you notice the mind has wandered off, gently guide it back to your breathing.
That’s it! It may be challenging at first, but with practice comes ease.
To come out of your meditation, take a few full, deep breaths and make small movements with your fingers and toes. Stretch the body awake and open your eyes again. Take note of the immediate benefits! Practice meditation every day to create lasting, positive change.
We hope this helps bring some inner peace to you, enjoy experimenting with these wonderful rituals!
With love,
E
About Emily O'Brien:
Emily is an Ayurvedic practitioner, yoga teacher, and mother with an overall “crunchy” approach toward life. Writing about what she’s learned throughout years of study is her favorite way to share with others. She hopes her articles can spark awareness and inspiration within readers to lead happier, healthier, more peaceful lives.
Find out more about Emily and her beautiful work at https://www.emilyobrienwriter.com/
What are these fascinating herbs known as adaptogens, and should you be taking one?
]]>There are several categories of herbs out there… we have digestive herbs that help support the digestive system, we have nervines which help support the nervous system, we have stimulants that give you energy in one way or another, we have antibacterial herbs help fight off bad bacteria, the list goes on!! But there is one category of herbs that has been popularized in recent years known as adaptogens…
Adaptogens are natural substances (typically plants, but can be made of other natural materials as well) that essentially, enhance the body’s ability to regulate the stress of everyday life and experiences. Here are a few important points that may shed some light on this amazing category of herbs…
This means that an herb classified as an adaptogen has the ability to bring the body back to homeostasis after it has been exposed to a stressful situation or a stressful environment. One of the most unique tidbits about adaptogens is that they work in both directions to normalize the body - if the stressful situation has overworked a certain system in the body, it can bring that system back up to where it should be, and if the stressful situation has caused the body system to underperform, the adaptogen will give it a boost to make sure it is working at the appropriate rate. It is almost as if the adaptogen is reading our bodies, as if it has a special intelligence and knows exactly what our body needs at that point in time. (NATURE IS A FASCINATING AND BEAUTIFUL THING!!!)
An herb can only be classified as an adaptogen if it is nontoxic over time. With herbal medicine, patience is very important, we cannot expect the herb we take in the morning to magically fix us by the end of the day. This is why it is important that adaptogens are nontoxic over time. They need to be consumed for a few weeks to allow your body to begin adjusting to their effects. An herb that is potentially dangerous when taking consistently cannot be considered adaptogenic.
The neuroendocrine system has to do with the nervous system and the endocrine system. Adaptogens help to calm this connected system, particularly the adrenal glands by helping to regulate the secretion of cortisol. This, in turn, helps the body adapt to its stressors, hence the name “adaptogen”.
Adaptogenic herbs tend to increase adaptive energy in the body, which according to traditional medicine systems like Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda, can be called tonic. Tonic herbs are known to tonify a system in the body by alleviating conditions of weakness. Tonics are a very important aspect in TCM because they mitigate deficiencies and increase energy and well-being.
Adaptogens help our bodies to build strength. They enhance anabolic processes happening in the body. In his book, Adaptogens in Medical Herbalism, Donald Yance states:
The process of anabolism influences bioenergetics, cell communication, cell proliferation, endocrine function, including behavior and mood. I think of anabolic metabolism as an energy-inward process that keeps the body and mind running smoothly.
So being that adaptogens are anabolic, they tend to build strength where they resonate most in the body, and different adaptogens have affinities for different part of the body. For example, ashwagandha will have a strong impact on the thyroid and the sexual glands, whereas eleuthero will improve stamina and the ability to build muscle, furthermore, astragalus will build up a very strong immune system.
This bullet point overlaps with others, but I separated it because I think it is a very important and notable benefit of adaptogens. Several adaptogens, possibly all, are known to ward off disease because not only do they support the regulation of the entire immune system, they also help us to manage internal and external sources of stress, therefore causing less oxidative damage to our bodies on a cellular level and increasing the body’s overall immune response. Adaptogens also increase the body’s production of certain cells that strengthen the immune system, such as cytotoxic T lymphocytes, macrophages, natural killer cells, interleukin-2 & interleukin-12...when these are activated, the overall immune system is more apt to fighting off diseases caused by oxidative stress.
Adaptogens are quite rich in antioxidants. These antioxidants are a big part of the reason and method in which these herbs work the way they do. The antioxidant properties of adaptogens are known to (as mentioned above) inhibit disease from developing or to help tame some illness that already exists in the body.
Needless to say, adaptogens are loved by many different systems of medicines throughout the world. If you feel like you are having a difficult time managing your stress or you just want to give one a shot, check out literature by David Winston or Donald Yance. They have loads of wonderful and insightful information on how you can begin your journey to optimal well-being stat!
If you want to give adaptogens a shot, check out Wild Sun Wellness’s Loco Hot Cocoa Herbal Powder or the Stay Golden Herbal Powder.
I hope you all enjoyed this informative read. Keep learning and exposing yourself to nature’s wonders! Until next time…
Sending BIG Love,
Joey
Stevia… What is it and is it even good for you? Find out the answers to all the questions you have ever had on this interesting and non-caloric sweetener!
]]>Ahh, sweet, sweet stevia <3 The wonderful stevia is a plant native to South America. Commonly referred to as “sweet leaf”, stevia is part of the Asteraceae family of plants (same at the sunflower). Stevia has come to the market in full force in the last 10 or 12 years, known to most as an all-natural, zero-calorie sweetener. You can check almost any natural product’s label whether it be a packaged tea, snack or treat, more often than not, you will find stevia on the label.
No!! Praise be, stevia is NOT a sugar! The human body does not digest stevia as a sugar and it has no effect on blood sugar levels.
The stevia leaf contains 11 types of Steviol glycosides. These glycosides are what give stevia such a sweet taste, so sweet of a taste that the leaves are 40 times sweeter than sugar and the extracts can be anywhere from 250-300 times sweeter(!WOWZA!). The two glycosides in particular that give stevia its strongly sweet taste are Stevioside and Rebaudioside A (aka Reb A). Sometimes, one or the other of these two glycosides will be extracted and used on its own, instead of using the full leaf as a sweetener.
Stevia has been used in South American cultures for hundreds of years. Historically, they have not found it to be harmful or detrimental to health in any way. In fact, recent studies have also found that stevia may play a role in reducing obesity when used in place of sugar. Furthermore, another study shows results that look promising for stevia in regulating insulin levels in diabetes and other insulin resistance related syndromes. It is also a good alternative sweetener in conditions dealing with bacterial overgrowths in the gut or other places in the body.
This is where things get a little tricky… leave it to the FDA to make things clear as crystal, am I right? (-_-)
There are several versions of stevia available…
Stevia Leaf, Fresh or Dried
Obviously, this is the number one choice - anything in its most whole, organic form is going to be best and easiest for the body to understand. Some people try to avoid this because it tends to leave an odd aftertaste according to many. I will also say, use this with caution, as it is always sweeter than you anticipate!
Stevia Liquid Extract
This is typically the cleanest version of stevia extract you will find. I like to give the example of vanilla extract, it is just like that but with stevia leaf instead of vanilla bean. If you are familiar with tinctures, it is essentially the tincture of the stevia leaf. It will typically contain only 3 or 4 ingredients: water, alcohol, stevia, and occasionally, glycerine. Again, use this with caution as only 3-4 drops typically do the trick!
Stevia (Reb A)
This is an extracted glycoside from the stevia leaf. It can be up to 250-300 times sweeter than normal table sugar, which means you only need a teensy tiny amount when using it. This extract is not bad in itself, but it is not easy to come across on its own as it is extremely pricy and typically (as you will read in the next bullet point) diluted with filler ingredients, so it is good to always check your ingredient labels to be sure of what ingredients are actually in your stevia(!!!).
Stevia Sweetener Packets
So those little packs that you see at your favorite coffee shop or in your office break room are actually not as amazing as they’re made out to be. They are typically a powdered extract of the glycoside Reb A, which that in itself is okay, but on top of that ingredient is also something like maltodextrin, sucrose, or dextrose which are all synonymous for fillers/ sugars. This would be my last recommendation for stevia choice - honestly I skip this kind of stevia all together.
According to PubMed, the acceptable daily intake (ADI) should not exceed about 12mg of high-purity stevia extract per kg of body weight per day. This means we really don’t have to worry at all about the amount of stevia we are ingesting because… take this example provided by PubMed:
For example, to put the ADI for high purity steviol glycosides into perspective, a 150-lb (70-kg) person would need to consume approximately 40 packets of a table top stevia sweetener that contain 21 mg steviol glycosides per packet daily for a lifetime to maximize the current ADI.
I too, as I am sure you are, was shocked when I found this out. One could fully blow this out of proportion and take it for granted, sure - But as with all things in life, everything in moderation!… But as you can see from that study above, you can’t really overdo it on stevia with any ill health consequences, so shoot, go for it and have that 5th drop of stevia extract in your morning coffee!! ;)
So that wraps up my little blurb on my favorite sweetener. Don’t be afraid to get a bottle and experiment with it, it goes well in drinks like coffee, tea, and smoothie and you can use it in baked goods as well without having a huge spike in your blood sugars when you indulge in that treat!
If you have any comments or questions, feel free to comment in the section below. I would love to hear your thoughts on stevia and your recipes too :)
Big SWEET Love,
Joey
Other Resources:
https://pyureorganic.com/sweet-talk/health/does-stevia- help-with-weight-loss/
Curious about matcha green tea? This popular green drink everyone is pouring up has more to it than you might think!
]]>So, you may have been hearing a lot about matcha lately... I am here to shed some light on what exactly it is and why it can be a really amazing addition to your daily routine!
Matcha is a powdered type of green tea. Traditionally Japanese, matcha comes from young, shaded leaves of the tea plant, Camillia sinensis. The shading provides a slower photosynthesis process, enabling the plant to produce high levels of L-theanine, the amino acid attributed to the smooth, bold flavor of matcha tea. These leaves are harvested 88 days after the first day of spring, all apart of the matcha making tradition. Shortly following the harvest, they are steamed, and dried. At this point, the leaves are called tencha tea. This tencha tea is then stone-ground into the fine green powder known as matcha.
The leaves of the tea plant can be processed in many different ways, making it extremely versatile. The way the leaves are grown and processed can radically change the density of nutrients available in the plant once it reaches the teapot. This plant, no matter the processing is high in an abundance of nutrients. Green tea, the dried, unfermented version of the tea leaf is the most studied form of this nutrient powerhouse.
Matcha, being a form of green tea is grown, processed and consumed in a different way than classic green tea leaves. Matcha contains more potent variations of the potent antioxidants like catechins, due to the growing process, the way in which the leaf is actually processed and then the consumption method, in which the powdered green tea leaf is actually consumed. The most praised antioxidant in green tea is called -epigallocatechin-3-gallate or EGCG. In fact, studies show “that drinking matcha green tea will result in dramatically greater intake of EGCG compared to drinking other types of green tea”. Word on the street is that matcha green tea has 137 times more the available absorption of EGCG than regular old green tea! WHOA!!
The matcha tea beverage is made by taking one teaspoon of the finely ground powder and placing it in a sieve, sifting it into a mug to ensuring there are no clumps. Then, pouring one ounce of 175℉ water into the mug and whisking with a bamboo whisk into a loose paste, ensuring again that no clumps remain. Proceed to add another 3-7 ounces (depending on how strong of a flavor you want) of 175℉ water and continue to whisk till a bubbly foam forms the top layer. That is when the matcha is ready to drink.
It's as simple as that!
Have you ever had matcha green tea before? What do you think about it?
Please share your thoughts in the comments below!
Big Love,
Joey
Curious about the super herb that seems to do it all? Check out why we’re crazy about Ashwagandha…
]]>
In the traditional Indian system of medicine, Ayurveda, Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is a rasayana, meaning it is an herb that rejuvenates and restores, in Western Herbalism, we call it an Adaptogen [Adaptogens, in short, are herbs that help our bodies adapt to every day stress and support overall health.] In herbal medicine, we mostly use Ashwagandha’s roots, as they are found to be the most medicinal part of the plant, although its leaves and fruits have been used as healing tools as well. Ashwagandha has been used for thousands of years as a tonic in not only Ayurveda, but also in Unani-Tibb and other traditional systems of medicine.
Lately, this herb has experienced quite a bit of popularity… and for very good reason:
It Regulates Overall Immune Function
Ashwagandha is an immunoregulator. It will up-regulate the immune system if your body needs a boost, or it will down-regulate it if your body’s immune system is overworking (typically in the case of auto-immune disease). It significantly increases levels of immunocompetent cells, immune complexes, and immunoglobulins, which is why it has been used extensively for tumors, multiple cancers, and several auto-immune diseases. (Yance 364)
It is Rich in Iron
When taken in powder form, ashwagandha is very rich in iron. It can be used as a tool for bringing iron back up to an appropriate level with anemia - it is super tasty with some heated almond milk and a touch of molasses (also rich in iron!).
It Reduces Stress & Anxiety
As an adaptogen and a nervine, ashwagandha is known to significantly reduce stress by regulating the function of the endocrine system and relaxing the nervous system. Ashwagandha is a calming adaptogen that works over time, one would notice a difference in 2-3 weeks using it at the appropriate dosage. It is often effective for anxiety, brain fog, fatigue, insomnia caused by stress, and nervous exhaustion.
It Regulates Sleep Rhythms
Ashwagandha is a calming adaptogen, but don’t fret, it should not by any means make you sleepy, it will just chill your nervous system out so you are actually able to relax. Although it does not make you directly sleepy, it does seem to regulate sleep patterns over time, enabling the consumer to get a better night’s rest and wake up feeling more rejuvenated.
It is Neuroprotective & Rich in Antioxidants
Ashwagandha is packed with antioxidants, it seems to have a knack for supporting the body by reducing free-radicals, allowing the body to regenerate healthy tissue. It protects the brain, the heart, and the liver… just to name a few of the important organs the antioxidants help out.
It Supports a Healthy Thyroid
Ashwagandha is one of the few herbs that has a significant effect on the thyroid hormone. It is best used with hypothyroidism as it tends to increase thyroid function by stimulating the gland. (Winston 140) It is also best to avoid for those with hyperthyroidism as it can further stimulate the thyroid and cause more issues.
It Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Not only does this wondrous root help the thyroid out, it truly supports much of the endocrine system. That being said, it supports the pancreas by increasing the secretion of insulin, which means our blood sugar levels are more easily balanced. When blood sugar is balanced, our bodies feel more in balance, there are no blood sugar woes, dizzy spells or hangry outbreaks - now I know I'm not the only one who is thinking of the perfect candidate for Ashwagandha... ;)
As with everything, there are some precautions to take before beginning to use ashwagandha. It may interact with some medications such as immunosuppressants. It may enhance sedative effects of some barbiturates. It is not recommended for pregnant women. It is also not recommended for those who are hyperthyroid. Other than these minimal restrictions, ashwagandha is quite a safe herb to take regularly.
Essentially, ANYONE who passes the few restrictions in the paragraph above... This herb is truly a super herb, along with all of the greatness mentioned in this blog, ashwagandha is strongly anti-inflammatory, it is restorative after chemo-therapy, it’s anti-parasitic, and energetically, it is very grounding. The mechanisms of the actions of this herb are not all fully understood, but through thousands of years of use and observation, Ashwagandha has rightfully made its way to center stage.
Want to give this wonder herb a shot? Try Ashwagandha in our Stay Golden - Golden Milk Herbal Powder and let us know what you think about it in the comments section below!
Sending BIG Love,
Joey
Here are 3 tiny practices to make your 2019 THAT much better ;)
]]>Well folks, 2018 has come and gone so quickly! As we welcome in 2019 with open arms, it is a wonderful time to reflect on the past year and make goals for the year ahead. Here at Wild Sun Wellness, we are all about self-care, taking care of you comes first because if you’re not in good condition, you really can’t be of service to others. Putting “New Year’s Resolutions” aside (we all know those only last about 20 days…), get yourself into a practice or a ritual that you do for YOU!
Here are 3 ways to DO YOU in 2019:
Do one thing every day that makes you feel good in your head
Your headspace is one of the most important spaces you have - do everything in your power to nurture and grow that! And let me tell you, there are TONS of ways to do this, if meditation isn’t your style, grab a journal and jot down your feelings, maybe spend some time at the Float Spa, decompressing and letting your mind be still. Take that yoga class you’ve been meaning to get to, or take your friend up on that Sound Healing Gong Bath! Whatever it may be, do something every day, even for just 5 minutes, to clear that headspace and just be. You will be glad you did.
Do one thing every day that makes you feel good in your body
This can be so much more than getting over to the gym or that pilates class you signed up for, sure that always make you feel really fantastic in your body, but balance is key when it comes to this department. Give your body a break sometimes and pamper it - don’t be afraid to go to the spa sometimes, get a massage, do a breath technique, take a relaxing bath, look at yourself in the mirror and tell yourself something positive, take a scenic hike. Whatever it is, do one thing every day that makes you feel good in your body.
Do one thing every day that creates a feeling of gratitude
Gratitude has been studied for years and the findings are astonishing. A small daily practice of gratitude can increase self-esteem, boost careers, create happiness and overall optimism, it has even been known to improve both physical and psychological health. In my opinion, it makes a person more resilient and creates pathways for that person to do better in every area of their life. So why not practice gratitude daily? You can do it however it fits in your life, write 3 things a day in a notebook, find a “gratitude partner” and share something you are grateful for with each other daily, do some self talk in the mirror, really, anything you can think of, just remember to do it! You will slowly start seeing small shifts and changes in your every day life that directly correlate with your daily practice.
Three simple practices to add to your day that are TOTALLY and COMPLETELY doable! If you need some help along the way, we are always here to support you on your path to enriching your being, don’t forget it!!
I sure hope you all have a wonderful 2019 - peace and blessings to all!
BIG LOVE,
Joey Rea
Founder, Wild Sun Wellness
Learn how to support your body as we shift seasons with this amazing Ayurvedic kitchari cleanse!
]]>As of late, the western world has started to realize we are living lives that are not sustainable for our environment and not sustainable for our bodies. The recent discovery in the West of Ayurveda, the traditional and ancient science of Indian medicine has begun gaining traction for its potent healing abilities and thought-provoking spiritual rituals. One of these being a tasty dish suitable for all people called Kitchari.
The word Ayurveda can be broken down into two Sanskrit words - Ayur, which means science or knowledge and Veda which means life. So, Ayurveda is the science or knowledge of life. It has been studied for over 5,000 years and focuses in on the imbalance in the human being rather than the disease the human being has. There are three body constitutions or make-ups in this system of medicine (Vata, Pitta, and Kapha) and every person falls within a certain percentage of all three. This makes up a person’s Ayurvedic dosha. Knowing a person’s dosha is crucial in this system of medicine because the way in which a person lives their life can be balancing or unbalancing for their unique dosha.
Click here to find out your unique dosha!
According to Ayurveda, the agni is the body's metabolic fire, the strength with which one digests not only food, but experiences and emotions as well. The science of Ayurveda is based upon balancing out the agni in order to achieve vibrant, optimal health and well-being. In our world today, it seems almost rare to find someone that has never had digestive issues - whether it be something as simple as not eliminating regularly, to something as complex as SIBO. And so with this knowledge, we begin to look at how we can increase the agni, or digestive fire of the body... and as for me, I always look to kitchari.
Kitchari is a healing dish/soup that has the ability to balance out all three doshas. It is tri-doshic, meaning it is balancing and restorative to Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Kitchari is a dish made up of split yellow mung beans (mung daal) and white basmati rice. Different spices and herbs are added to or taken out of it according to a person’s dosha and their imbalances at that time. This dish is used for any type of illness in Ayurveda, it is fed to a sick person as a mono-diet for any amount of time because it is an incredibly gentle and nourishing food for the body, mind, and soul.
Doing a kitchari cleanse is an empowering way for one to take hold of their own health and begin to heal the body from the inside out, starting with the digestive system.
There are many ways to do a kitchari cleanse, I often follow and base my information off of Dr. John Douillard's 4 day short home cleanse. But traditionally, this cleanse is done for three days, eating kitchari for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, without snacking in between meals (if possible). Because of the gentle nature of this dish, it is very easy on the digestive system, allowing your body to focus on detoxifying multiple systems of the body including the lymphatic, digestive, the digestive accessory organs (gallbladder, kidneys, liver), and fat-soluble toxins that may be released during this cleanse. I will be explaining the 4 day cleanse and the way that I typically follow it.
This cleanse is definitely one of the more gentle ones out there, that being said, it is still a cleanse. Day 2 is usually the day where I begin to feel some aches and pains of the body detoxifying, but this is a good sign, a sign that the cleanse is working! It is best to rest as much as possible during the cleanse in order to allow the body to focus on releasing toxins. This cleanse will help to clear not only the body of toxins, but the mind as well, so if there are some emotional ups and downs, allow them to pass through and take the necessary time to reflect upon them. This will help all aspects of the detoxification process. If at all possible, plan to do the cleanse over a long weekend or at least day one and day two over a regular weekend - we wouldn't want the stressors of work coming in and rattling the emotions while we are trying to do something to stabilize and balance them!
It is also good to know that this cleanse can potentially constipate or slow bowel movements for many people. This is normal so do not be alarmed if this does end up happening. It will all come out by the end of the cleanse ;)
For the four days of the cleanse, kitchari will be the sole dish, eaten three times a day, garnished with some fresh cilantro. There will be herbal supplements that are recommended to enhance detoxification pathways as well, these will be taken before and after meals depending on the certain herb. And of course, let us not forget, the morning ghee.
Snacking should try to be avoided as best as possible, but if need be, some plain sprouted almonds or a piece of fresh fruit can be eaten. During this cleanse, going about everyday life should be totally doable, although keep in mind that the body is cleansing and some feelings of fatigue may occur. At that point it would serve best to listen to what the body is saying - if a nap is needed, then goodness, take one! Taking unnecessary stressors out of your life for these four days can be very helpful and supportive to your personal 4 day cleansing journey.
Each morning, upon waking up, a certain amount of ghee will be consumed. The amount increases daily. Starting your day with this will lubricate the entire digestive system, enhance the healthy flora in your intestines, stimulates fat-soluble cell detoxification. For a little more information on ghee and why it can help you transition into a new season, check out this blog post. The idea of consuming ghee may be a bit daunting or disgusting, so mixing it with a bit of homemade almond milk or very pure coconut milk and a touch of cinnamon is always a good idea!
Day 1: drink 2 teaspoons of melted ghee
Day 2: drink 4 teaspoons of melted ghee
Day 3: drink 6 teaspoons of melted ghee
Day 4: drink 9 teaspoons of melted ghee
Wait 30 minutes before consuming anything.
There are different herbal supports that can be taken before and after eating meals. They can vary depending on dosha - a predominantly Pitta person would most likely want to choose the cooling digest whereas someone who tends to be a cold person may want to choose the warming digest.
The cooling digest would be taken with meals, it is a warm cup of water with a pinch of each fennel, cumin and ginger powder. The warming digest also known as "ginger pizza" will be consumed 15 minutes prior to eating each meal - this is two slices of ginger with a squirt of lemon juice and a sprinkle of Himalayan pink salt.
Then we have a lymphatic supporting herb, the one traditionally used is manjistha, it has very similar effects to red root, this can be used as an alternative as manjistha is somewhat difficult to find without ordering it online. These herbs support the detoxification of the lymph throughout the cleanse. Capsules or tablets are the best form at about 400 mg each.
Turmeric capsules at about 500 mg each is the last herbal support, it helps to support stress response, build and nourish the blood, and also helps with full body detoxification.
The last night of the cleanse will call for prune juice - this will be used as a laxative.
Rise each morning with the sun, allow yourself time to prepare for the day. This will include cooking your kitchari in the morning, enough for the entire day. Fresh kitchari is best, but realistically it can be difficult trying to fit this into your morning routine. If that is the case, you can make enough for the entire cleanse, jar it in 16 oz mason jars and refrigerate or freeze them. This is normally what I do because it makes it easy to take to work, then I will heat it up at work in the toaster oven or in a double boiler.
Drink the correct amount of ghee for the certain day of the cleanse, melt it in warm water or warm coconut or homemade almond milk, add a dash of cinnamon for taste. Wait 30 minutes, then prepare the herbal digestive support (warming to be taken 15 minutes before eating and cooling to be taken with food). Have about 12 oz of room temperature water.
Eat your first bowl of kitchari, garnish is with some cilantro and a squirt of lime.
This will be the routine for breakfast, lunch and dinner - choose two meals in which the manjistha (or red root) and the turmeric capsules will be taken after. Two capsules will be taken after your two chosen meals. I do mine after lunch and after dinner.
Drink plenty of water during the cleanse, sipping on warm water rather often (every 15 minutes if possible) is great for hydration and also really supports all detoxification pathways. Any other water drank during the cleanse will have a greater detoxifying effect if it is consumed at room temperature.
Gentle exercise can be a wonderful support to detoxification - gentle forms of yoga, tai chi, chi gong, or just getting outside for a walk. Don't push too hard, the last thing we want to do is cause stress in the body!!
Take a warm epsom salt bath before bed if you have the time. This can be ultra relaxing and give your muscles and mind a nice break. Turn on some relaxing music and have a little you time!
Have dinner early (around 5-6pm) and get a good night of rest each night. Our bodies a detox and repairing machines while we are sleeping, so it is crucial to ensure we are providing the opportunity to ourselves.
One the last night of the cleanse, there is a "final flush". Two hours after having an early dinner, take a nice warm (epsom salt) bath or a long hot and steamy shower. Then, it will be time for the laxative. Prune juice is the laxative I have chosen to end this cleanse. There are different options - for those with sluggish digestion, dissolving 1 tablespoon of epsom salt in a cup of water then adding a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and a teaspoon of lemon juice may be a better option. After taking the laxative, head to bed. The laxative can take effect during the night, but generally will hit most upon rising the next morning. Waiting for the laxative effects to wear off before eating anything the next day to make sure the cleanse is effective, although if you have been eliminating rather regularly throughout the 4 days, you may not see a huge impact from the laxative.
Ease back into daily eating habits after this cleanse, maybe having a sweet potato or another gentle food will be best on your tummy the following day.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
This should make enough for the entire cleanse - As I mentioned earlier, this can be jarred up and put into the fridge or freezer (I prefer the freezer to keep it fresher).
Here's what you'll need
3 cups of split yellow mung beans
1 cup of rice
3 tbsp of fresh ginger (grated)
2 tbsp of Turmeric powder
2 tbsp of fennel seeds
1 tbsp cumin powder
1 tbsp black mustard seeds
1.5 tsp of fenugreek seeds
1.5 tsp of coriander powder
4 bay leaves
12 cloves
Rock salt and black pepper to taste
18-21 cups of water
**If you want to add in some veggies because this may not be satiating, that is always an option. Cook them with the kitchari or steam them separately (avoid cooking them with fats during the cleanse).
Here's what you'll do
1. Place all spices except cloves and bay leaves in the bottom of a large pot over medium heat. Allow the spices to slightly toast, till you can smell the aroma.
2. Measure out and rinse both the rice and mung beans until the water runs clear. Add them into your pot along with the bay leaves and cloves.
3. Add in your water, the amount can vary depending on the consistency you want, but the runnier the better, that's what I say at least.
4. Stir all ingredients and bring the mixture to a boil on high heat - then turn back to medium heat and allow it to simmer for about 30 minutes. At this point your kitchari should be ready to go! A very simple recipe if you ask me :)
I hope you all have transition as smooth as ghee into the Fall season! Enjoy this recipe and the cleanse too. If you want a more in-depth take on the cleanse I would recommend Dr John Douillard's E-book, check it out.
And please don't hesitate to comment and ask questions, I would love to hear from you all and what you think of it!
Happy Fall my friends, may this season bring you joy, self-love and happiness because you deserve it..... Ohhh and lots of pumpkin goodies too!
Love and Light,
Joey
Disclaimer: This cleanse should not be followed without the approval of your qualified healthcare practitioner.
]]>Get creative with your herbs this winter by enjoying this seasonal health tonic - the Peppermint Hot Chaga-late!
]]>I don't know about you but these chilly mornings and evenings have got me craving some classic hot cocoa! I decided to get super creative with this recipe, making it not only satisfying for my taste buds, but nourishing to my body as well! This one is vegan and sugar-free, but still rich and creamy. I used some super herbs to boost the health, turning this into a health tonic to keep us going all winter long!
Cacao Powder
Well we have all heard about this fantastic superfood, but do we really know what all the rage is about? Let me share, the cacao bean (technically a nut) has been used for centuries upon centuries stemming back to the Mayans. Chocolate is the highest source of antioxidants known in a plant on our earth, not only that, it is one of the highest natural sources of minerals such as iron, magnesium, manganese, chromium, phosphorus, zinc, and copper; all of these minerals are great for a well-nourished body! It is also one of the greatest foods for our hearts and our longevity. Pretttty awesome for all those chocoholics out there, huh?
Chaga Mushroom
As king of the mushroom empire, Chaga is an extremely healing and useful medicinal mushroom. It has been historically used for all types of ailments, specifically for digestive ones. It is known to support a healthy gut, clear out any intestinal worms, support the liver and heart, reduce stomach disease, and provide enormous amounts of antioxidants. And let's not forget how tasty it is, rich and slightly sweet, making a perfect addition to coffees and hot chocolates alike!
Peppermint Leaf
This is one of my favorite herbs, it is so dang tasty, it is cooling and it is FANTASTIC for digestion! Peppermint is one of our best herbs for abdominal bloating, gas and nausea. It also just really screams "Happy holidays" to me, so I thought it would be wonderful in this recipe.
Stevia Leaf
This sweet herb is the perfect gift from mother nature, it is a naturally sweet leaf. It has been used for hundreds of years in South America for all kinds of health issues, specifically for gum disease and diabetes (funny because regular sugar can cause these problems!). This nutrient-packed leaf contains glycosides, which are the reason it is so sweet, but at the same time provides no calories! According to research, our bodies do not metabolize glycosides; aka our bodies do not digest stevia as a sugar. Another awesome perk of this leaf is that it is full of inulin, a natural prebiotic that enhances the good bacteria in our gut! Can I get a woot woooot for stevia?
Yield: 20 oz Time: 40 minutes
Here is what you'll need
4 oz chaga decoction
16 oz unsweetened almond milk peppermint stevia infusion
1/4 cup cacao powder
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
Here is what you'll do
Chaga Decoction
Take 8 oz water and 1 tbsp of chaga in a heavy bottom pot. Bring the water to a boil, then turn the heat down to low and continue to simmer the mixture for 30 minutes or until it has gone down by about half. Once the time has passed and it has finished steeping, strain the chaga from the water (use a strainer, cheesecloth, or anything on hand) and press all the water out of the used chaga that you can. Discard (compost) the used mushroom and you've got a lovely chaga decoction! This can be done at the same time as the Almond Milk Peppermint Stevia Infusion!
Almond Milk Peppermint Stevia Infusion
Bring 16 oz of unsweetened almond milk to a boil then turn off instantly. Add 2 tbsp of peppermint and 1 tsp stevia leaf to the pot, place cover on top and let this steep for 30 minutes. This can be done at the same time as the chaga decoction. Once the time is up, strain away the herbs, put the infusion back into the pot.
Mix It Up
At this point, we can add the chaga decoction to the almond milk peppermint stevia infusion. Then add vanilla extract and sift in the cocoa powder. Whisk mix until thoroughly blended and there is a nice layer of foamy cocoa on top. Pour this mix into your favorite oversized mug, grab a nice book, a cozy blanket and curl up by the fire!
I hope you all enjoy this delicious and nourishing hot chaga-late! Please let me know what you think in the comments!
Sending BIG love,
Joey
]]>