http://www.yogajournal.com/dailyinsight/103006.html
You’ve may have heard the saying, "Calories don't count when you're with friends." That may be a wonderful reminder to let loose and have fun while you're visiting friends. Unfortunately, however, the calories, fat, and sugar you take in during that time count just as much as they do during your lonely digressions.
A little indulgence is natural at friendly gatherings and parties. But get carried away and you'll end up bloated, tired, and bummed-out. According to Ayurvedic principles, there's a physiological reason for this: When you eat in moderation, your body and mind are happy. But when you eat too much, you overwhelm your agni (digestive fire), creating chaos in your belly and inviting unpleasant imbalances such as gas, weight gain, and depression.
The key to making sure you're not eating too much in the company of friends—or anywhere else your attention is diverted—is to bring your awareness back to the task at hand, your food. As a rule of thumb, any time you're ready to sit down to eat, remove yourself from distractions. Turn off the television, step away from your computer, hang up the phone, or step away from your friends so you can really focus on what you're taking into your body. That way you'll be able to savor the flavors, and you'll be able to tell when you've had enough. When you're done, you can rejoin the party feeling nourished, but not weighed down.
An Ancient Cure for Modern Life
http://www.yogajournal.com/health/647_1.cfm?ctsrc=nldn
Choice Eats
http://www.yogajournal.com/health/2022_1.cfm?ctsrc=nldn
Eat, Drink, and Be Healthy
http://www.yogajournal.com/health/1925_1.cfm?ctsrc=nldn
Yoga Journal
Monday, October 30, 2006
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Macro Beauty Cutie!
Q: What is beauty?
A: Beauty is your birthright to be your best natural self (not covering up the truth with cosmetics or plastic surgery). Beauty reflects your day-to-day life, and when a person is in balance, it comes from deep within, radiating your deepest spiritual self. Beauty is being in harmony with nature.
Q: What creates your appearance from day to day?
A: Daily life, food choices, exercise, activity, environment, attitudes, emotions
Q: What factors most influence your beauty?
A: Clean air, water (drinking, bathing, cooking), sunlight, lush green vegetation, peaceful setting, and daily diet. Food creates your cells, muscles, tissues, and bodily fluids!
Q: What factors do you have control over? What can you do?
A: Follow some type of whole foods diet such as the Standard Macrobiotic Diet (see handouts), avoiding extreme foods in particular, live a healthier lifestyle, and do a body scrub daily, if possible.
Q: What tools are there for creating your beauty?
A: Balanced diet, exercise, daily grooming, natural body care, positive attitude
Check out the book Glow, by Christina Pirello, for more information and great recipes.
A: Beauty is your birthright to be your best natural self (not covering up the truth with cosmetics or plastic surgery). Beauty reflects your day-to-day life, and when a person is in balance, it comes from deep within, radiating your deepest spiritual self. Beauty is being in harmony with nature.
Q: What creates your appearance from day to day?
A: Daily life, food choices, exercise, activity, environment, attitudes, emotions
Q: What factors most influence your beauty?
A: Clean air, water (drinking, bathing, cooking), sunlight, lush green vegetation, peaceful setting, and daily diet. Food creates your cells, muscles, tissues, and bodily fluids!
Q: What factors do you have control over? What can you do?
A: Follow some type of whole foods diet such as the Standard Macrobiotic Diet (see handouts), avoiding extreme foods in particular, live a healthier lifestyle, and do a body scrub daily, if possible.
Q: What tools are there for creating your beauty?
A: Balanced diet, exercise, daily grooming, natural body care, positive attitude
Check out the book Glow, by Christina Pirello, for more information and great recipes.
check out this rare film clip
Chuck Berry, John Lennon, Yoko Ono make macrobiotic food
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1u63Q4pCfKg
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1u63Q4pCfKg
Tuesday, October 10, 2006
Think and Grow Rich, by Napoleon Hill
Self Confidence Formula
First. I know that I have the ability to achieve the object of my Definite Purpose in life; therefore, I DEMAND of myself persistent, continuous action toward its attainment, and I here and now promise to render such action.
Second. I realize that the dominating thoughts of my mind will eventually reproduce themselves in outward, physical action, and gradually transform themselves into physical reality; therefore, I will concentrate my thoughts for 30 minutes daily upon the task of thinking of the person I intend to become, thereby creating in my mind a clear mental picture of that person.
Third. I know that through the principle of autosuggestion that any desire that I persistently hold in my mind will eventually seek expression through some practical means of attaining the object back of it; therefore, I will devote ten minutes daily to demanding of myself the development of SELF-CONFIDENCE.
Fourth. I have clearly written down a description of my DEFINITE CHIEF AIM in life, and I will never stop trying until I shall have developed sufficient self-confidence for the attainment.
Fifth. I fully realize that no wealth or position can long endure unless built upon truth and justice; therefore, I will engage in no transaction that does not benefit all whom it affects. I will succeed by attracting to myself the forces I wish to use and the cooperation of other people. I will induce others to serve me because of my willingness to serve others. I will eliminate hatred, envy, jealousy, selfishness, and cynicism by developing love for all humanity – because I know that a negative attitude toward others can never bring me success. I will cause others to believe in me because I will believe in them and in myself.
Sixth. I will sign my name to this formula, commit it to memory, and repeat it aloud once a day, with full FAITH that it will gradually influence my THOUGHTS and ACTIONS so that I will become a self-reliant and successful person.
First. I know that I have the ability to achieve the object of my Definite Purpose in life; therefore, I DEMAND of myself persistent, continuous action toward its attainment, and I here and now promise to render such action.
Second. I realize that the dominating thoughts of my mind will eventually reproduce themselves in outward, physical action, and gradually transform themselves into physical reality; therefore, I will concentrate my thoughts for 30 minutes daily upon the task of thinking of the person I intend to become, thereby creating in my mind a clear mental picture of that person.
Third. I know that through the principle of autosuggestion that any desire that I persistently hold in my mind will eventually seek expression through some practical means of attaining the object back of it; therefore, I will devote ten minutes daily to demanding of myself the development of SELF-CONFIDENCE.
Fourth. I have clearly written down a description of my DEFINITE CHIEF AIM in life, and I will never stop trying until I shall have developed sufficient self-confidence for the attainment.
Fifth. I fully realize that no wealth or position can long endure unless built upon truth and justice; therefore, I will engage in no transaction that does not benefit all whom it affects. I will succeed by attracting to myself the forces I wish to use and the cooperation of other people. I will induce others to serve me because of my willingness to serve others. I will eliminate hatred, envy, jealousy, selfishness, and cynicism by developing love for all humanity – because I know that a negative attitude toward others can never bring me success. I will cause others to believe in me because I will believe in them and in myself.
Sixth. I will sign my name to this formula, commit it to memory, and repeat it aloud once a day, with full FAITH that it will gradually influence my THOUGHTS and ACTIONS so that I will become a self-reliant and successful person.
Friday, October 06, 2006
Rise and Shine
The starting point for your healthier lifestyle can be your breakfast. Your brain and body need healthy fuel to function efficiently. Eating a healthy breakfast has many benefits, such as increased energy and concentration.
Naturally, as the sun rises in the morning, so do you. Eating foods that contribute to that fresh, uplifting, energized time of day are the most beneficial. In contrast, loading your body with heavy, greasy, salty, and dry foods common in the Standard American Diet can create sluggishness and mental fogginess, as well as hunger and cravings as your body attempts to balance these extremes.
Enjoying warm, whole grain cereals made from tasty grains such as millet, brown rice, quinoa, or oatmeal, and a variety of lightly blanched or steamed vegetables in the morning, will start your day off right!
When I started eating vegetables in the morning, and stopped eating granola with soymilk, I was less hungry throughout the day, lost weight, and decreased symptoms such as bloating and gas (ICK!). Those were wonderful unexpected improvements in my own health.
On weekends, (especially in the fall) I enjoy a heartier breakfast, such as a tofu scramble and some kind of muffin recipe. The smell of muffins baking is so cozy.
Here is my recipe for the scramble:
Tofu Scramble
1 package firm tofu
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 onion, diced
1/2 cup organic corn
1/2 cup mushrooms
1 tsp sesame oil
shoyu
scallions, as garnish
Heat a frying pan and saute the vegetables in the following order: onion, carrot, mushroom, celery, corn. Crumble the tofu into the pan, add shoyu, cover, and simmer for about 5 minutes. Take off the lid and toss in some chopped scallions. If you'd like fresh scallions, sprinkle on top.
Vegetables can be varied according to your personal taste, and you might also want to top it with some kind of roasted seeds or nuts.
Naturally, as the sun rises in the morning, so do you. Eating foods that contribute to that fresh, uplifting, energized time of day are the most beneficial. In contrast, loading your body with heavy, greasy, salty, and dry foods common in the Standard American Diet can create sluggishness and mental fogginess, as well as hunger and cravings as your body attempts to balance these extremes.
Enjoying warm, whole grain cereals made from tasty grains such as millet, brown rice, quinoa, or oatmeal, and a variety of lightly blanched or steamed vegetables in the morning, will start your day off right!
When I started eating vegetables in the morning, and stopped eating granola with soymilk, I was less hungry throughout the day, lost weight, and decreased symptoms such as bloating and gas (ICK!). Those were wonderful unexpected improvements in my own health.
On weekends, (especially in the fall) I enjoy a heartier breakfast, such as a tofu scramble and some kind of muffin recipe. The smell of muffins baking is so cozy.
Here is my recipe for the scramble:
Tofu Scramble
1 package firm tofu
1 carrot, diced
1 celery stalk, diced
1 onion, diced
1/2 cup organic corn
1/2 cup mushrooms
1 tsp sesame oil
shoyu
scallions, as garnish
Heat a frying pan and saute the vegetables in the following order: onion, carrot, mushroom, celery, corn. Crumble the tofu into the pan, add shoyu, cover, and simmer for about 5 minutes. Take off the lid and toss in some chopped scallions. If you'd like fresh scallions, sprinkle on top.
Vegetables can be varied according to your personal taste, and you might also want to top it with some kind of roasted seeds or nuts.
Yoga Journal's Daily Insight
I thought this was interesting. Don't know if it's true or not.
Cured with Candy
Tutankhamen was buried with it to guard him from evil spirits in the underworld. Greek and Roman legionnaires chewed it to quench their thirst as they marched through the desert. Even the Kama Sutra recommended drinking it with milk and sugar as an aphrodisiac. Far from being an ancient nutritional fad, the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra—more widely known as licorice—remains one of today's most extensively used and scientifically investigated herbal substances.
Licorice has been shown to soothe bowel and kidney irritations, cleanse the colon, and strengthen the liver. It provides a mild laxative effect and expels mucous from the lungs, making it helpful in the treatment of bronchitis, laryngitis, and sore throats—especially when taken as a tea.
Learn more about the healing powers of licorice.
Come Clean
http://www.yogajournal.com/health/660_1.cfm?ctsrc=nldn
A Candy and a Cure
http://www.yogajournal.com/health/71_1.cfm?ctsrc=nldn
Cured with Candy
Tutankhamen was buried with it to guard him from evil spirits in the underworld. Greek and Roman legionnaires chewed it to quench their thirst as they marched through the desert. Even the Kama Sutra recommended drinking it with milk and sugar as an aphrodisiac. Far from being an ancient nutritional fad, the root of Glycyrrhiza glabra—more widely known as licorice—remains one of today's most extensively used and scientifically investigated herbal substances.
Licorice has been shown to soothe bowel and kidney irritations, cleanse the colon, and strengthen the liver. It provides a mild laxative effect and expels mucous from the lungs, making it helpful in the treatment of bronchitis, laryngitis, and sore throats—especially when taken as a tea.
Learn more about the healing powers of licorice.
Come Clean
http://www.yogajournal.com/health/660_1.cfm?ctsrc=nldn
A Candy and a Cure
http://www.yogajournal.com/health/71_1.cfm?ctsrc=nldn
Monday, August 14, 2006
Tumors Use ‘Hijacking’ Trick to Evade Attack by Immune Cells
The following release about gene activity pattern discovery was
sent to reporters under embargo on Wednesday. The embargo
lifted today:
Department of Health and Human Services
National Institutes of Health
National Cancer Institute
CONTACT:
NCI Media Relations Branch
(301) 496-6641
ncipressofficers@mail.nih.gov
Monday, August 14, 2006
5 pm EDT
Tumors Use ‘Hijacking’ Trick to Evade Attack by Immune Cells
Researchers have identified a potential mechanism by which tumors
in miceescape attack from antitumor immune cells. This escape is
facilitated when tumors produce a molecule called adenosine that
inactivates antitumor immune cells by binding to receptors on
their cell surfaces, the researchers found. Consequently, the
immune cells behave as though the tumors are normal tissue, and
an attack is averted. This research was conducted by scientists
at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the National Institute
of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), both part of the
National Institutes of Health (NIH), and their collaborators.
Theresults are reported in the August 14, 2006, online issue of
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences*.
“This work may be complementary to efforts of cancer
immunologists who have developed many clever ways to improve the
development of antitumor T cells,” said NIH Director Elias A.
Zerhouni, M.D. “The cross-fertilization of research between the
field of immunology and cancer is a fruitful one that is paying
dividends with this new finding.”
“Tumors have hijacked a mechanism that evolved to protect
normal tissues from collateral damage that occurs when the body
mounts a defense against infection,” said lead researcher Misha
Sitkovsky, Ph.D., who until recently was at NIAID. Sitkovsky is
now at the New England Inflammation and Tissue Protection Institute,
a consortium at Northeastern University in Boston, Mass.
The findings extend research published in Nature in 2001 by
Sitkovsky and colleagues into the role of adenosine in regulating
inflammation. Inflammatory chemicals produced by the immune
system in response to infection or injury must eventually be
switched off so that excessive tissue damage can be avoided.
Sitkovsky and his colleagues have shown that one consequence of
inflammation -- a drop in oxygen levels in the inflamed
tissues -- triggers the release of adenosine from surrounding
cells and serves as atissue-protecting stop signal. This is because
when adenosine binds to so-called A2A adenosine receptors on
immune cells in the inflamed region, the production of
damaging inflammatory molecules is slowed.
In the new study, the researchers tested whether the same
mechanism protects cancerous tissues from antitumor T cells
by evaluating the effects of genetically deleting A2A adenosine
receptors in mice. The experiments showed that antitumor T cells
that lack A2A adenosine receptors can overcome tumor defenses and
eradicate tumor cells.
“We showed that if antitumor T cells do not express A2A
adenosine receptors due to a genetic deletion, then these antitumor
T cells can overcome adenosine-based tumor defense mechanisms.
As a result, the majority of these mice rejected their tumors and
survived significantly longer,” said co-researcher Scott Abrams,
Ph.D., of NCI’s Center for Cancer Research. By comparison, normal
mice that had antitumor T cells with intact A2A adenosine receptors
experienced uncontrolled tumor growth and died. Abrams added,
“These proof-of-concept experiments also raise the idea that this
type of tumor escape mechanism may serve as a target for
therapeutic intervention.”
To begin to explore that idea, the researchers pharmacologically
inactivated the A2A adenosine receptor using substances such as
caffeine and others to make antitumor T cells less susceptible
to inhibition by tumor-produced adenosine. The majority of mice
in these experiments had much better antitumor immune responses
and delayed tumor growth.
The genetic inactivation strategy was not effective in about 40
percent of the mice, however. The researchers suggest that one
reason may be the existence of other adenosine receptors in these
mice, and identifying these molecules will be a focus of future
research.
“Now we may be able to prevent a hostile tumor microenvironment
from inhibiting the antitumor T cells. I have been extremely
fascinated and puzzled by the paradoxical coexistence of tumors
and anti-tumor immune cells in the same cancer patient,” added
Sitkovsky. “I have been considering this contradiction for the
past 30 years.”
“Greater understanding of the tumor microenvironment and its
relationship to other cells in the body is not just enhancing
our knowledge of cancer; it could eventually lead to new treatments
and better ways to monitor those treatments,” said NCI Acting
Director John E. Niederhuber, M.D.
###
* Ohta A, Gorelik E, Ronchese F, Lukashev D, Prasad SJ, Wong MKK,
Huan X, Caldwell S, Liu K, Smith P, Chen JF, Jackson EK, Apasov S,
Abrams S, and Sitkovsky M. A2A adenosine receptor protects tumors
from anti-tumor T cells. PNAS. Online August 14, 2006.
The NIH -- The Nation's Medical Research Agency -- includes
27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department
of Health and Human Services. It is the primary federal agency for
conducting and supporting basic, clinical and translational medical
research, and it investigates the causes, treatments, and cures
for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH
and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.
For more information about cancer, please visit the NCI Web site at
http://www.cancer.gov, or call NCI’s Cancer Information Service at
1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237).
NIAID supports basic and applied research to prevent, diagnose
and treat infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and other sexually
transmitted infections, influenza, tuberculosis, malaria and
illness from potential agents of bioterrorism. NIAID also supports
research on basic immunology, transplantation and immune-related
disorders, including autoimmune diseases, asthma and allergies.
sent to reporters under embargo on Wednesday. The embargo
lifted today:
Department of Health and Human Services
National Institutes of Health
National Cancer Institute
CONTACT:
NCI Media Relations Branch
(301) 496-6641
ncipressofficers@mail.nih.gov
Monday, August 14, 2006
5 pm EDT
Tumors Use ‘Hijacking’ Trick to Evade Attack by Immune Cells
Researchers have identified a potential mechanism by which tumors
in miceescape attack from antitumor immune cells. This escape is
facilitated when tumors produce a molecule called adenosine that
inactivates antitumor immune cells by binding to receptors on
their cell surfaces, the researchers found. Consequently, the
immune cells behave as though the tumors are normal tissue, and
an attack is averted. This research was conducted by scientists
at the National Cancer Institute (NCI) and the National Institute
of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), both part of the
National Institutes of Health (NIH), and their collaborators.
Theresults are reported in the August 14, 2006, online issue of
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences*.
“This work may be complementary to efforts of cancer
immunologists who have developed many clever ways to improve the
development of antitumor T cells,” said NIH Director Elias A.
Zerhouni, M.D. “The cross-fertilization of research between the
field of immunology and cancer is a fruitful one that is paying
dividends with this new finding.”
“Tumors have hijacked a mechanism that evolved to protect
normal tissues from collateral damage that occurs when the body
mounts a defense against infection,” said lead researcher Misha
Sitkovsky, Ph.D., who until recently was at NIAID. Sitkovsky is
now at the New England Inflammation and Tissue Protection Institute,
a consortium at Northeastern University in Boston, Mass.
The findings extend research published in Nature in 2001 by
Sitkovsky and colleagues into the role of adenosine in regulating
inflammation. Inflammatory chemicals produced by the immune
system in response to infection or injury must eventually be
switched off so that excessive tissue damage can be avoided.
Sitkovsky and his colleagues have shown that one consequence of
inflammation -- a drop in oxygen levels in the inflamed
tissues -- triggers the release of adenosine from surrounding
cells and serves as atissue-protecting stop signal. This is because
when adenosine binds to so-called A2A adenosine receptors on
immune cells in the inflamed region, the production of
damaging inflammatory molecules is slowed.
In the new study, the researchers tested whether the same
mechanism protects cancerous tissues from antitumor T cells
by evaluating the effects of genetically deleting A2A adenosine
receptors in mice. The experiments showed that antitumor T cells
that lack A2A adenosine receptors can overcome tumor defenses and
eradicate tumor cells.
“We showed that if antitumor T cells do not express A2A
adenosine receptors due to a genetic deletion, then these antitumor
T cells can overcome adenosine-based tumor defense mechanisms.
As a result, the majority of these mice rejected their tumors and
survived significantly longer,” said co-researcher Scott Abrams,
Ph.D., of NCI’s Center for Cancer Research. By comparison, normal
mice that had antitumor T cells with intact A2A adenosine receptors
experienced uncontrolled tumor growth and died. Abrams added,
“These proof-of-concept experiments also raise the idea that this
type of tumor escape mechanism may serve as a target for
therapeutic intervention.”
To begin to explore that idea, the researchers pharmacologically
inactivated the A2A adenosine receptor using substances such as
caffeine and others to make antitumor T cells less susceptible
to inhibition by tumor-produced adenosine. The majority of mice
in these experiments had much better antitumor immune responses
and delayed tumor growth.
The genetic inactivation strategy was not effective in about 40
percent of the mice, however. The researchers suggest that one
reason may be the existence of other adenosine receptors in these
mice, and identifying these molecules will be a focus of future
research.
“Now we may be able to prevent a hostile tumor microenvironment
from inhibiting the antitumor T cells. I have been extremely
fascinated and puzzled by the paradoxical coexistence of tumors
and anti-tumor immune cells in the same cancer patient,” added
Sitkovsky. “I have been considering this contradiction for the
past 30 years.”
“Greater understanding of the tumor microenvironment and its
relationship to other cells in the body is not just enhancing
our knowledge of cancer; it could eventually lead to new treatments
and better ways to monitor those treatments,” said NCI Acting
Director John E. Niederhuber, M.D.
###
* Ohta A, Gorelik E, Ronchese F, Lukashev D, Prasad SJ, Wong MKK,
Huan X, Caldwell S, Liu K, Smith P, Chen JF, Jackson EK, Apasov S,
Abrams S, and Sitkovsky M. A2A adenosine receptor protects tumors
from anti-tumor T cells. PNAS. Online August 14, 2006.
The NIH -- The Nation's Medical Research Agency -- includes
27 Institutes and Centers and is a component of the U.S. Department
of Health and Human Services. It is the primary federal agency for
conducting and supporting basic, clinical and translational medical
research, and it investigates the causes, treatments, and cures
for both common and rare diseases. For more information about NIH
and its programs, visit www.nih.gov.
For more information about cancer, please visit the NCI Web site at
http://www.cancer.gov, or call NCI’s Cancer Information Service at
1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237).
NIAID supports basic and applied research to prevent, diagnose
and treat infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and other sexually
transmitted infections, influenza, tuberculosis, malaria and
illness from potential agents of bioterrorism. NIAID also supports
research on basic immunology, transplantation and immune-related
disorders, including autoimmune diseases, asthma and allergies.
Thursday, August 10, 2006
Dessert! Yum!
This picture shows a cous cous cake with a blueberry topping, a green tea mousse with an azuki bean topping and mochi dumplings, and a strawberry parfait with tofu whipped cream.
Recent meals
Here are some of the things I've cooked lately: red lentil loaf with sesame gravy, tempeh stew, and spinach ohitashi
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Leslie, Mie, and Reni
Reni and I got to see our respected teachers Mie and Hiroyuki Naka at the KI Summer Conference. Here's beautiful and talented Mie. Does she look about 16 years old? She's 43!
Reni, Leslie, Paige
I'm so lucky to have two such wonderful macrobiotic friends. Thanks, Reni, for coming to visit, and thanks, Paige, for all the time we worked together!
Cooking Class Team
Paige (left) and I (right) co-managed a team of 8 cooking class volunteers. These were a few of our great team members, Kevin, Ceri, Barbara, and Anita. They helped us a lot doing a really demanding job.
Leslie at the Kushi Institute in Becket
This was my first ever trip to the KI. I was super exhausted after a week of working 12 to 17 hour days non-stop as the KI Summer Conference Cooking Class Team Leader. The reason for going up was to help put away the cooking utensils and food from the 5-day conference. It was great to be in Becket and to finally see what the KI is like. The food is sooo yummy!
A message from the KI Summer Conference
“Macrobios Global”
spoken by Michio Kushi on 7/29/2006 at the Kushi Institute Summer Conference
Michio’s Goals
1) Health recovery in the next 2 years. His ascending colon was 98% blocked which caused a water control problem for him. Since they removed part of the upward colon, where it was attached to his small intestine and appendix, this has been causing trembling and weakness in his legs. Left untreated, his condition could have led to a heart attack. His B-12 synthesis has been reduced and sometimes he requires shots. In the next couple of years, he’ll remain on a reduced schedule and try to recover his health. He said he’s been getting better and better all the time.
2) He’d like a comprehensive book of “Macrobios Whole View” or infinity from beginning of time to the end
3) He’d like a World Macrobiotic Federation with about 100 senior macrobiotic leaders from all over the world. The goals of this WMF would be to:
a. have 2 – 3 days of special studies with group tours between countries
b. hold more international events
c. have the countries/centers do their events (e.g., summer conferences) at different times to enable people to attend everything
d. make borders obsolete
e. create a world Constitution (i.e., Declaration of Independence-like document) and present to current world leaders in 2 to 3 years.
4) He’d like the current form of energy to change or to have another Industrial Revolution. At the moment, we’re using too much energy, digging too many minerals and oil, and burning too much oil, causing extensive pollution. The additional developing countries are now adding to this pollution. We need to avoid more global warming, and he makes this a 10-year goal. We need a new energy source such as:
a. the energy of Earth’s rotation
b. the transmutation of atoms from the 8 light elements into heavier elements
5) We need to recognize our ultimate purpose of having a spiritual and peaceful human kind, and practice self-love and love towards others. Religion, in his estimation, is not making a definite contribution to peace. The focus should be removed from the physical and instead should be refocused on more developed spiritual and mental states. He estimates this will take approximately 2000 years to accomplish. Health should overcome violence, sickness, and conflict, creating a new civilization.
While Michio is still alive, he plans to teach more. One example of this would be to teach a new type of visual diagnosis. For example, currently, each part of the face represents a different organ. Another way to do this is to take the whole face to read each organ. Specifically, if you’re looking at a woman’s face and wanting to diagnose the reproductive system, the eyes represent the ovaries, and the area around the eye represents the fallopian tubes. The nose is the uterus, and just below the nose is the cervix, the lips the vagina, and around the mouth is the endometrium. Another example is the lungs; the right side of the face is the right lung, and the left side the left lung, respectively. He’d like to be able to teach several styles of visual diagnosis to us all.
He wants a teacher’s health curriculum.
He thanks everyone for the work they have been doing and though he may not remember names, he remembers faces.
spoken by Michio Kushi on 7/29/2006 at the Kushi Institute Summer Conference
Michio’s Goals
1) Health recovery in the next 2 years. His ascending colon was 98% blocked which caused a water control problem for him. Since they removed part of the upward colon, where it was attached to his small intestine and appendix, this has been causing trembling and weakness in his legs. Left untreated, his condition could have led to a heart attack. His B-12 synthesis has been reduced and sometimes he requires shots. In the next couple of years, he’ll remain on a reduced schedule and try to recover his health. He said he’s been getting better and better all the time.
2) He’d like a comprehensive book of “Macrobios Whole View” or infinity from beginning of time to the end
3) He’d like a World Macrobiotic Federation with about 100 senior macrobiotic leaders from all over the world. The goals of this WMF would be to:
a. have 2 – 3 days of special studies with group tours between countries
b. hold more international events
c. have the countries/centers do their events (e.g., summer conferences) at different times to enable people to attend everything
d. make borders obsolete
e. create a world Constitution (i.e., Declaration of Independence-like document) and present to current world leaders in 2 to 3 years.
4) He’d like the current form of energy to change or to have another Industrial Revolution. At the moment, we’re using too much energy, digging too many minerals and oil, and burning too much oil, causing extensive pollution. The additional developing countries are now adding to this pollution. We need to avoid more global warming, and he makes this a 10-year goal. We need a new energy source such as:
a. the energy of Earth’s rotation
b. the transmutation of atoms from the 8 light elements into heavier elements
5) We need to recognize our ultimate purpose of having a spiritual and peaceful human kind, and practice self-love and love towards others. Religion, in his estimation, is not making a definite contribution to peace. The focus should be removed from the physical and instead should be refocused on more developed spiritual and mental states. He estimates this will take approximately 2000 years to accomplish. Health should overcome violence, sickness, and conflict, creating a new civilization.
While Michio is still alive, he plans to teach more. One example of this would be to teach a new type of visual diagnosis. For example, currently, each part of the face represents a different organ. Another way to do this is to take the whole face to read each organ. Specifically, if you’re looking at a woman’s face and wanting to diagnose the reproductive system, the eyes represent the ovaries, and the area around the eye represents the fallopian tubes. The nose is the uterus, and just below the nose is the cervix, the lips the vagina, and around the mouth is the endometrium. Another example is the lungs; the right side of the face is the right lung, and the left side the left lung, respectively. He’d like to be able to teach several styles of visual diagnosis to us all.
He wants a teacher’s health curriculum.
He thanks everyone for the work they have been doing and though he may not remember names, he remembers faces.
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
An Inconvenient Truth
Roger Ebert, perhaps the country's premier movie reviewer,
said in his review of this film [An Inconvenient Truth]:
"In 39 years, I have never written these
words in a movie review, but here they are: You owe it to yourself to
see this film. If you do not, and you have grandchildren, you should
explain to them why you decided not to."
This is one of the most powerful and well-made movies to come along in a while. It's deeply profound and frightening to see what Al Gore presents. Please see this movie, and go to www.climatecrisis.net so that you can find out what you can do to reduce your carbon footprint on the earth.
Macrobiotic people are already doing some of these things, but we can always do more.
said in his review of this film [An Inconvenient Truth]:
"In 39 years, I have never written these
words in a movie review, but here they are: You owe it to yourself to
see this film. If you do not, and you have grandchildren, you should
explain to them why you decided not to."
This is one of the most powerful and well-made movies to come along in a while. It's deeply profound and frightening to see what Al Gore presents. Please see this movie, and go to www.climatecrisis.net so that you can find out what you can do to reduce your carbon footprint on the earth.
Macrobiotic people are already doing some of these things, but we can always do more.
Thursday, June 15, 2006
Macrobiotic "yajna": eco spirituality
Whenever I read my yoga magazines, I find so much overlap with what I learned in my macrobiotic studies. I loved this excerpt from Yoga International's March 2006 issue called Re-enchantment by Sandra Anderson. It said:
The Ritual of Life
"Yajna is ritual fire sacrifice on the one hand, but it's more general meaning is that which contributes to the beauty and well-being of creation. Yajna is that which sustains and nourishes the matrix of life. Swami Rama writes in his translation of the Bhagavad Gita, "In the universe, every action is a ritual, and the ritual is performed for the sake of sacrifice. The raindrop sacrifices itself to become part of the plant, the sun gives up its energy to give light and life to all beings." He was fond of saying "Giving is the law of the universe." Selfless actions, he would tell us, unconditional love, the offering of inner vitalities to the Lord of Life, working with less attachment to the outcome and more attention to our highest values -- these are yajnas."
Fragrant yajna offerings are burnt and the smoke ascends to the subtle realms "to nourish and propitiate the forces of nature. Acknowledging this interdependent matrix of life, the Bhagavad Gita says, "Beings are born from food; food is produced from the rain; rain is produced from sacrifice (yajna), and yajna arises from action." The actions of humans living in harmony with the environment nourish the atmosphere, keeping the rain in balance, and protecting the soil, plants, and entire food chain."
I feel good knowing that my dietary choices attempt to realign with nature and that somehow I am doing what I can to help nourish not just myself and the people that I cook for, but also the planet. Practicing macrobiotics is a form of yajna. I have a choice not to eat meat, dairy, sugar, and other extreme foods that would not only hurt my health, but in doing so also harm others.
The Ritual of Life
"Yajna is ritual fire sacrifice on the one hand, but it's more general meaning is that which contributes to the beauty and well-being of creation. Yajna is that which sustains and nourishes the matrix of life. Swami Rama writes in his translation of the Bhagavad Gita, "In the universe, every action is a ritual, and the ritual is performed for the sake of sacrifice. The raindrop sacrifices itself to become part of the plant, the sun gives up its energy to give light and life to all beings." He was fond of saying "Giving is the law of the universe." Selfless actions, he would tell us, unconditional love, the offering of inner vitalities to the Lord of Life, working with less attachment to the outcome and more attention to our highest values -- these are yajnas."
Fragrant yajna offerings are burnt and the smoke ascends to the subtle realms "to nourish and propitiate the forces of nature. Acknowledging this interdependent matrix of life, the Bhagavad Gita says, "Beings are born from food; food is produced from the rain; rain is produced from sacrifice (yajna), and yajna arises from action." The actions of humans living in harmony with the environment nourish the atmosphere, keeping the rain in balance, and protecting the soil, plants, and entire food chain."
I feel good knowing that my dietary choices attempt to realign with nature and that somehow I am doing what I can to help nourish not just myself and the people that I cook for, but also the planet. Practicing macrobiotics is a form of yajna. I have a choice not to eat meat, dairy, sugar, and other extreme foods that would not only hurt my health, but in doing so also harm others.
Monday, May 29, 2006
Quinoa, cranberry, and pecan pilaf
I LOVE quinoa. How did life get so far along without knowing about this? I tried it for the first time about 3 years ago. It's becoming more popular these days, and I often read about this being a good grain for people who want to lose weight because it's so high in protein so it's satisying and gives you energy. One of my students told me that her 70ish uncle fathered two children in his sunset years, and the US made him take a paternity test to enter the US. They thought he was lying, but he told them, "What do you think I eat? I'm not like Americans eating hamburgers. I'm CHILEAN. I eat QUINOA."
Grain pilafs with tart fruit, pungent green onions, crunchy nuts and veges, and a lemon dressing really turn me on!
Grain pilafs with tart fruit, pungent green onions, crunchy nuts and veges, and a lemon dressing really turn me on!
Tempeh curry
I've been looking for macro things to make for non-macro people and this was one of the yummy ones. It's great with brown rice.
Delcious dinner
Let's see, what did we have...? It was lentil loaf, millet mashed potatoes and gravy, arame with apple juice, brown rice, and steamed carrots and squash. Yum!
Azuki Bean Face Lift
If you read Macrobiotics Today, then you might have seen Ilanit Tof's recipe for the Azuki Bean Scrub. Well, I want to tell you that if you haven't tried it yet, you SHOULD. It's really amazing. I went out to buy a coffee grinder especially for this, and it was worth it. Your face feels super soft and even after doing it just once, it seems to improve you complexion. You can purchase Ilanit's entire full colour kitchen friendly book of great vegan macrobiotic healing recipes here:
https://littletree.securehost3.com/seasonal_variation.htm or at cybermacro.com
if you live in the USA
I purchased her book, and am excited to try the recipes :-)
Here's the azuki bean recipe:
Oriental Skin Polishing Pore Refresher
Ingredients
✓ ¼ - ½ cup raw adzuki beans
✓ 1 clean strong coffee bean grinder
Procedure
❦ Grind 1- 2 tablespoons of raw adzuki beans at a time
❦ If the grinder has a pulse mechanism you may like to use this
❦ Wait 20 - 30 seconds before opening lid to allow to settle and prevent a face-full of adzuki bean powder dust
❦ Place powder in an airtight glass jar
❦ Transfer several tablespoons into a small plastic container with a good seal for use in the bathroom/shower
Variations
• use chickpeas for a more moistening mix
Usage Suggestions
• mix with water to a paste after cleansing face
• use as a scrub and rinse off immediately (good for daily – 3 times a week use)
• or allow to remain on face until it dries and rinse off in the shower (use once a week and follow with a few drops of pure jojoba or rosehip oil on damp skin or leave skin bare overnight to rejuvenate and cleanse)
• can be used as a whole body scrub
All About Adzuki Beans
✱ Revered as an indispensable beauty aid both internally and externally in the Orient
✱ Powerfully rejuvenate the kidneys and heart when eaten or made into a kidney tonifying tea
✱ The bean’s astringent action is heightened in the raw state which is utilised in this pore refining treatment that will beat expensive lotions and potions hands down!
Ms Ilanit Tof
B.A. (Psychophysiology/Psychology)
Advanced Diploma Healing with Wholefoods
PhD Holistic Nutrition (candidate)
Little Tree Oriental Healing Arts
Helping you grow to new heights of wellbeing
with Oriental Traditions and Modern Nutrition
ilanit@littletree.com.au
www.littletree.com.au
https://littletree.securehost3.com/seasonal_variation.htm or at cybermacro.com
if you live in the USA
I purchased her book, and am excited to try the recipes :-)
Here's the azuki bean recipe:
Oriental Skin Polishing Pore Refresher
Ingredients
✓ ¼ - ½ cup raw adzuki beans
✓ 1 clean strong coffee bean grinder
Procedure
❦ Grind 1- 2 tablespoons of raw adzuki beans at a time
❦ If the grinder has a pulse mechanism you may like to use this
❦ Wait 20 - 30 seconds before opening lid to allow to settle and prevent a face-full of adzuki bean powder dust
❦ Place powder in an airtight glass jar
❦ Transfer several tablespoons into a small plastic container with a good seal for use in the bathroom/shower
Variations
• use chickpeas for a more moistening mix
Usage Suggestions
• mix with water to a paste after cleansing face
• use as a scrub and rinse off immediately (good for daily – 3 times a week use)
• or allow to remain on face until it dries and rinse off in the shower (use once a week and follow with a few drops of pure jojoba or rosehip oil on damp skin or leave skin bare overnight to rejuvenate and cleanse)
• can be used as a whole body scrub
All About Adzuki Beans
✱ Revered as an indispensable beauty aid both internally and externally in the Orient
✱ Powerfully rejuvenate the kidneys and heart when eaten or made into a kidney tonifying tea
✱ The bean’s astringent action is heightened in the raw state which is utilised in this pore refining treatment that will beat expensive lotions and potions hands down!
Ms Ilanit Tof
B.A. (Psychophysiology/Psychology)
Advanced Diploma Healing with Wholefoods
PhD Holistic Nutrition (candidate)
Little Tree Oriental Healing Arts
Helping you grow to new heights of wellbeing
with Oriental Traditions and Modern Nutrition
ilanit@littletree.com.au
www.littletree.com.au
Tuesday, May 02, 2006
Emotions in and out of balance
Healthy conditions of the liver and gallbladder are connected with patience and endurance, while unhealthy conditions produce short temper and anger
Healthy conditions of the heart and small intestine are connected with gentleness,
tranquility, intuitive comprehension, spiritual oneness, and merry, humorous expression, while unhealthy conditions produce separateness excitement, and excessive laughter
Healthy conditions of the spleen, pancreas, and stomach, are connected with sympathy
wisdom, consideration, and understanding, while unhealthy conditions produce irritability skepticism, criticism, and worry
Healthy conditions of the lungs and large intestine are connected with a feeling of happiness, security, and wholeness, while unhealthy conditions produce sadness, depression, and melancholy
Healthy conditions of the kidneys and bladder are connected with confidence, courage
and inspiration while their unhealthy conditions produce fear, lack of self- esteem, and hopelessness
Healthy conditions of the heart and small intestine are connected with gentleness,
tranquility, intuitive comprehension, spiritual oneness, and merry, humorous expression, while unhealthy conditions produce separateness excitement, and excessive laughter
Healthy conditions of the spleen, pancreas, and stomach, are connected with sympathy
wisdom, consideration, and understanding, while unhealthy conditions produce irritability skepticism, criticism, and worry
Healthy conditions of the lungs and large intestine are connected with a feeling of happiness, security, and wholeness, while unhealthy conditions produce sadness, depression, and melancholy
Healthy conditions of the kidneys and bladder are connected with confidence, courage
and inspiration while their unhealthy conditions produce fear, lack of self- esteem, and hopelessness
Thursday, March 16, 2006
Environmental and Health News
CONGRESS BLINDFOLDS CONSUMERS- REMOVING RIGHT TO KNOW WHAT'S IN YOUR FOOD
On March 8, despite massive public opposition, including 50,000 calls and letters from supporters of the Organic Consumers Association, the House of Representatives passed the controversial "national food uniformity" labeling law, which would eliminate over 200 state food safety labeling laws. The law basically takes away local government and states' power to require food safety labels such as those required in California and other states on foods or beverages that are likely to cause cancer, birth defects, allergic reactions, or mercury poisoning. The bill would also prevent local municipalities and states from passing laws requiring that genetically engineered foods and ingredients be labeled. Under the bill, hundreds of state laws and regulations would be eliminated, including those relating to the safety of milk, fish, and shellfish. In order to become law, the bill will now have to go to the Senate for a vote. Because of the enormous public backlash against the bill, Washington analysts believe the bill will have great difficulty passing in the Senate. OCA and other public interest organizations have vowed to go "all out" to stop this anti-democratic, anti-consumer bill in the Senate. Take action here: http://www.organicconsumers.org/rd/labeling.cfm
FACT OF THE WEEK
In the 2006 election cycle, big agribusiness has already given $14,562,681 in campaign contributions to members of Congress. Source: http://www.opensecrets.org/industries/indus.asp?Ind=A
__________________________________
U.S. VOTES AGAINST 132 NATIONS ON GENETICALLY ENGINEERED FOOD
Biotech corporations are facing off against developing nations and most of the world this week in Brazil in a debate over the United Nation's Biosafety Protocol. The precedent-setting treaty is an international agreement signed in January 2000 by 132 of the world's nations. But the three main countries that grow genetically modified crops (the United States, Argentina and Canada) refuse to sign it, because the international law would require that countries be notified if the grains they are importing are genetically modified. Biotech companies want that language removed from the treaty, saying that developing nations and anti-GMO consumers in industrialized nations are not entitled to know whether their food is genetically engineered or not.
http://www.organicconsumers.org/ge/goliath060313.cfm
CANCER CAUSING CHEMICAL FOUND IN SOME SOFT DRINKS
The U.S., U.K. and China have launched investigations into benzene in soft drinks. Results of independent laboratory tests in New York, show a couple of soft drinks in the U.S. contain as much as four times above the legal benzene limit for drinking water. Benzene, a known carcinogen, is formed when two ingredients in the beverage react with each other: sodium benzoate (a preservative) and ascorbic acid (vitamin C). The FDA will not released the names of the beverages with high benzene levels but says the companies are being asked to change their ingredients. http://www.organicconsumers.org/foodsafety/benzene060303.cfm
On March 8, despite massive public opposition, including 50,000 calls and letters from supporters of the Organic Consumers Association, the House of Representatives passed the controversial "national food uniformity" labeling law, which would eliminate over 200 state food safety labeling laws. The law basically takes away local government and states' power to require food safety labels such as those required in California and other states on foods or beverages that are likely to cause cancer, birth defects, allergic reactions, or mercury poisoning. The bill would also prevent local municipalities and states from passing laws requiring that genetically engineered foods and ingredients be labeled. Under the bill, hundreds of state laws and regulations would be eliminated, including those relating to the safety of milk, fish, and shellfish. In order to become law, the bill will now have to go to the Senate for a vote. Because of the enormous public backlash against the bill, Washington analysts believe the bill will have great difficulty passing in the Senate. OCA and other public interest organizations have vowed to go "all out" to stop this anti-democratic, anti-consumer bill in the Senate. Take action here: http://www.organicconsumers.org/rd/labeling.cfm
FACT OF THE WEEK
In the 2006 election cycle, big agribusiness has already given $14,562,681 in campaign contributions to members of Congress. Source: http://www.opensecrets.org/industries/indus.asp?Ind=A
__________________________________
U.S. VOTES AGAINST 132 NATIONS ON GENETICALLY ENGINEERED FOOD
Biotech corporations are facing off against developing nations and most of the world this week in Brazil in a debate over the United Nation's Biosafety Protocol. The precedent-setting treaty is an international agreement signed in January 2000 by 132 of the world's nations. But the three main countries that grow genetically modified crops (the United States, Argentina and Canada) refuse to sign it, because the international law would require that countries be notified if the grains they are importing are genetically modified. Biotech companies want that language removed from the treaty, saying that developing nations and anti-GMO consumers in industrialized nations are not entitled to know whether their food is genetically engineered or not.
http://www.organicconsumers.org/ge/goliath060313.cfm
CANCER CAUSING CHEMICAL FOUND IN SOME SOFT DRINKS
The U.S., U.K. and China have launched investigations into benzene in soft drinks. Results of independent laboratory tests in New York, show a couple of soft drinks in the U.S. contain as much as four times above the legal benzene limit for drinking water. Benzene, a known carcinogen, is formed when two ingredients in the beverage react with each other: sodium benzoate (a preservative) and ascorbic acid (vitamin C). The FDA will not released the names of the beverages with high benzene levels but says the companies are being asked to change their ingredients. http://www.organicconsumers.org/foodsafety/benzene060303.cfm
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
Emoto Party
Here are many of the people who attended the party the night that I got to meet Dr. Emoto. They are all invested in alternative health, healing, and spreading love and aloha in their own ways.
Sunday, February 12, 2006
Leslie and Dr. Emoto
I was so blessed to be able to meet Dr. Emoto when he was in Honolulu. We enjoyed a wonderful party at Dr. Sandra Rose Michael's house (check out her Energy Enhancement System based on scalar waves on the web) filled with healers from all over Hawaii, China, and Japan. It was thrilling to have him stamp my book "Messages From Water" with "Love and Two Parts Gratitude" in Japanese.
Tuesday, January 24, 2006
Macrobiotic Cooking for Relationships and Sex
The energies of earth's force (yin) and heaven's force (yang) naturally seek balance. When couples make love, they find oneness and balance. The degree or quality of each determines attraction, love, repulsion, or dislike. Learn about what foods create a smooth flow of energy through the body and contribute to healthy and vital partners creating soulful, mindful, and loving sex. You won't hear "Not tonight honey, I'm too tired" any more!
February 11th 2006 Kapiolani Community College, $45 808-734-9211
February 18th, 2006 University of Hawaii, Hemenway Leisure Center, Hemenway Hall Rm 101, 956-6468 $45 students, $50 community
February 11th 2006 Kapiolani Community College, $45 808-734-9211
February 18th, 2006 University of Hawaii, Hemenway Leisure Center, Hemenway Hall Rm 101, 956-6468 $45 students, $50 community
Veg News about American "choice"
From Jan/Feb Veg News
Big Vegan Business
another reason to avoid processed foods is that many vegan companies
have been bought out by mega corporations that have less than
stellar reputations. Here are a few examples that might surprise
you:
Lightlife:
owned by ConAgra who is one of the nations top beef producers. In
2002, the company recalled almost 19 million pounds of beef due to
potential E.coli contamination. Also ConAgra is the parent company
of numerous meat-containing brands including: Hebrew National Beef
Franks, Chef Boyardee, Butterball Turkey, Hunt's Manwich and Slim
Jim.
Cascadian Farms and Muir Glen
Owned by General Mills who makes many nutritionally-deficient
cereals aimed at children. Also, the company's main shareholders
include Phillip Morris, Exxon-Mobil, General Electric, Chevron,
Nike, McDondald's, Monsanto, Dow Chemical and PepsiCo
Boca owned by Kraft. Kraft is owned by Altria, formerly known as
Phillip Morris. Do you really wnat your food dollars supporting
such a notoriously deceptive tobacco company? Also, most Boca
burgers are made with genetically-modified soy.
Odwala owned by Coca-Cola is notorious for contaminating the water
supply in developing countries such as India. Coca-Cola has also
been implicated in the murder of labor activists in Colombia. If
that's not enough, the company hooks children on its sugary,
nutrionally deficient beverages by forming exclusive contracts with
desperate school districts.
White Wave (Silk soy products) owned by Dean Foods. Dean Foods is
one of the nation's largest dairy companies and makes several
misleading claims about the health benefits of dairy, including
extolling its weight-loss benefits. Also, Dean Foods' main
investors include Pfizer, Phillip Morris, Exxon-Mobil, Coca-Cola,
Wal-Mart and PepsiCo
Finally, quite a few vegan products are now under the umbrella group
called "The Hain Celestial Group" including Terra Chips, Garden of
Eatin' Health Vally, WestSoy, Earth's Best, Westbrae Natural,
Imagine (Soy and Rice Dream) and Yves Veggie Cuisine. H.J. Heinz
owns about 20% of Hain, and other investors include Phillip Morris,
Monsanto, Exxon-Mobil and Wal-Mart.
In contrast, when you purchase organic, locally grown whole foods,
you support your local markets and farmers, thereby contributing to
the health and wellbeing of yourself, the environment and the local
economy all at once.
Big Vegan Business
another reason to avoid processed foods is that many vegan companies
have been bought out by mega corporations that have less than
stellar reputations. Here are a few examples that might surprise
you:
Lightlife:
owned by ConAgra who is one of the nations top beef producers. In
2002, the company recalled almost 19 million pounds of beef due to
potential E.coli contamination. Also ConAgra is the parent company
of numerous meat-containing brands including: Hebrew National Beef
Franks, Chef Boyardee, Butterball Turkey, Hunt's Manwich and Slim
Jim.
Cascadian Farms and Muir Glen
Owned by General Mills who makes many nutritionally-deficient
cereals aimed at children. Also, the company's main shareholders
include Phillip Morris, Exxon-Mobil, General Electric, Chevron,
Nike, McDondald's, Monsanto, Dow Chemical and PepsiCo
Boca owned by Kraft. Kraft is owned by Altria, formerly known as
Phillip Morris. Do you really wnat your food dollars supporting
such a notoriously deceptive tobacco company? Also, most Boca
burgers are made with genetically-modified soy.
Odwala owned by Coca-Cola is notorious for contaminating the water
supply in developing countries such as India. Coca-Cola has also
been implicated in the murder of labor activists in Colombia. If
that's not enough, the company hooks children on its sugary,
nutrionally deficient beverages by forming exclusive contracts with
desperate school districts.
White Wave (Silk soy products) owned by Dean Foods. Dean Foods is
one of the nation's largest dairy companies and makes several
misleading claims about the health benefits of dairy, including
extolling its weight-loss benefits. Also, Dean Foods' main
investors include Pfizer, Phillip Morris, Exxon-Mobil, Coca-Cola,
Wal-Mart and PepsiCo
Finally, quite a few vegan products are now under the umbrella group
called "The Hain Celestial Group" including Terra Chips, Garden of
Eatin' Health Vally, WestSoy, Earth's Best, Westbrae Natural,
Imagine (Soy and Rice Dream) and Yves Veggie Cuisine. H.J. Heinz
owns about 20% of Hain, and other investors include Phillip Morris,
Monsanto, Exxon-Mobil and Wal-Mart.
In contrast, when you purchase organic, locally grown whole foods,
you support your local markets and farmers, thereby contributing to
the health and wellbeing of yourself, the environment and the local
economy all at once.
Tuesday, January 17, 2006
Macrobiotic Guilt-Free Dessert Class in Honolulu
Jan 21st, 2006
Guilt-Free Desserts
When we eat a good diet, we take the frontline to prevent disease, improve vitality, enjoy deeper sleep, support a healthy weight, and enable our brain to function smoothly. In short, we have a deep sense of well-being. Americans are reported to eat up to 20 teaspoons of sugar every day, and 150 pounds of sugar every year. Refined foods such as white flour and sugar in modern desserts take a tremendous toll on us. These simple sugars enter our bloodstream immediately and are metabolized quickly raising blood glucose levels and overworking our pancreas in an attempt to rebalance. Simple sugars equal quick energy followed by exhaustion. Whole grains support our health.
We'll discuss:
Effects of sugar and refined foods on the body
Why we have sugar and fat cravings
How to promote good health
Standard Macrobiotic Diet – what is it?
Balancing yin and yang in our diet – avoiding extremes
We'll make:
Cous Cous Chocolate Cake
Chocolate Mousse Parfait
Apple Compote with Almond Cream Sauce.
University of Hawaii, Hemenway Leisure Center, Hemenway Hall Rm 111, 956-6468 $45 students, $50 community
Guilt-Free Desserts
When we eat a good diet, we take the frontline to prevent disease, improve vitality, enjoy deeper sleep, support a healthy weight, and enable our brain to function smoothly. In short, we have a deep sense of well-being. Americans are reported to eat up to 20 teaspoons of sugar every day, and 150 pounds of sugar every year. Refined foods such as white flour and sugar in modern desserts take a tremendous toll on us. These simple sugars enter our bloodstream immediately and are metabolized quickly raising blood glucose levels and overworking our pancreas in an attempt to rebalance. Simple sugars equal quick energy followed by exhaustion. Whole grains support our health.
We'll discuss:
Effects of sugar and refined foods on the body
Why we have sugar and fat cravings
How to promote good health
Standard Macrobiotic Diet – what is it?
Balancing yin and yang in our diet – avoiding extremes
We'll make:
Cous Cous Chocolate Cake
Chocolate Mousse Parfait
Apple Compote with Almond Cream Sauce.
University of Hawaii, Hemenway Leisure Center, Hemenway Hall Rm 111, 956-6468 $45 students, $50 community
Tuesday, January 10, 2006
Ura Ura Rolls from Macro Seminar
Look at these luscious brown rice sushi rolls! Our dinner was soooo delicious!
Krishna Das and Kirtan
On Dec. 17th, Krishna Das was in Honolulu. I've been reading about him in Yoga Journal, and was thrilled to find out about his being here. He does "kirtan" which is a sing and response type of chanting. Every time I've read about it, it sounds like the whole group connects and great levels of joy and meditation are reached. During one chant, I was overcome with emotion and started to cry. I looked around at everyone chanting, and saw in them the same desire I have: a peaceful and happy world. They all seemed to care about the future of the planet and the people on it. It was a great way to celebrate the holiday season. I felt relieved and resolved to be in a spiritual place for the holidays, rather than one in the material realm going to parties, drinking alcohol, and eating sweets. There are other more important things in the world to attend to.
Invisible worlds, friends and enemies
This weekend, Hiroyuki and Mie Naka were in Honolulu to do a seminar about macrobiotic cooking and they gave some amazing lectures as well. Hiroyuki was talking extensively about the invisible world. I'm still reflecting on their visit, their lectures, and my talks with them. Meanwhile, I've also just downloaded the current version of Macrobiotic Today, and Carl Ferre has a wonderful article in it about friends and enemies being examples of yin and yang. He replaces yin and yang with these two words and then explains them in some detail. Friends and enemies all originate from the same source: infinity, and are first nurtured in the invisible world before they manifest in the visible. I started again thinking about our invisible world and how a person can nuture it, if this is possible? Meditating? Praying? I put on a CD that my great friend Reni gave to me -- it has she and several friends chanting in a samurai shinto temple in the foothills of Fukuyama, Japan. It felt like she was sitting next to me in my car as I drove to work.... I got out, and as I walked to my destination, I could hear the same sound in my ears (om), as though it was coming from everywhere at once. I am resolved to thinking more about the invisible world and energy.
Interesting quote about $
I finished reading a book called "Secrets of the Millionaire Mind" by T Harv Eker. He's (not?) macrobiotic per say, but his text describes macrobiotic principles of energy in relation to money and business. It's an excellent read, with exercises to do. The point is that before something in one's life can change, one must change ones thoughts. Here is one tidbit:
If you want to change the fruits, you will first have to change the roots. If you want to change the visible, you must first change the invisible.
T Harv Eker
If you want to change the fruits, you will first have to change the roots. If you want to change the visible, you must first change the invisible.
T Harv Eker
Sunday, January 08, 2006
Macrobiotic Seminar
Our macrobiotic seminar was sooo much fun. The Naka's are really incredible people. We had so much support from the students, and Mie and Hiroyuki mentioned that all the students were all really nice people and very interested, so they were so happy. All the meals that we cooked were extremely delicious. We're looking forward to doing a lot more in the future, and they plan to come back every 6 months or so.
My mission
My mission is to make the world a better place in some way by teaching macrobiotic principles. I'd like to share a sense of hope with students and tools to achieve how the body and mind can heal without surgeries and drugs. In addition, I'd like to share that we can gain radiant health, beauty and well-being by changing our diets. Long term health is a daily journey integrating spiritual values, diet, and lifestyle. Changing one's diet can change one's life and destiny for the positive, helping us seek and discover the divinity and oneness within and to feel this in all facets of our lives and in the world around us. In doing so, we'll build a community in the Honolulu area sharing similar goals, values, and dreams.
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