Dr. SAM's Raw-habilitation Blog is intended to help inspire, motivate, and empower you towards better health and well-being!
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Dr. SAM- On Movement, Exercise & Fitness
In this video, there is some good wisdom as well as humor as it pertains to movment, exercise & fitness. Dr. SAM provides some valuable points about the importance of each and how they all are necessary for optimal health. Learning to move correctly is the first step. Once this is achieved, then exercising is much easier as one is less injury prone. Without being fit, one cannot be healthy. Therefore, investing time each day exercising is important.
Move well. Exercise often. Be fit. Be healthy!
In loving service,
Dr. SAM
Why the 'Holy Grail' approach to health
doesn't work!
All too often, people go on a wild goose chase looking for the 'Holy Grail' of health! They think the answer is in some magic place, pill, or person, when the answer is really in just following a simple system of health. This system should be comprised of daily healthy lifestyle habits and behaviors. Although health can be a journey, one doesn't need to look too far and wide to find the answers desired. Health is simple. Keep it simple. Don't fall victim to all the hype, fear or snake oil being pushed your way.
Invest in your health daily. If you give Nature a little, she will give you back a huge return. Just be consistent and persistent in your daily health behaviors and habits and you will have good health. If you're still in need of some coaching or guidance to help you achieve the level of health you desire, then please join me on my next RAW-habiliation Retreat in Costa Rica. More details here>>> Retreat Info
In loving service,
Dr. SAM
Healthy Weight Loss
A new year is upon us and many people will set good intentions on improving their health and well-being. As such, weight loss will be one of the most common goals set for this endeavor. Many people know that losing some excess weight can improve health and well-being in many ways (physically, mentally, and spiritually). However, what many don't realize is that the problem with a goal of 'weight loss' or 'fat loss' is that it's symptom-based.
Our society appears to be obsessed with weight-loss programs. Every week a new weight-loss method or program seems to make its way into the media. These programs are often full of unsound advice and false promises. The trouble with most of these programs is that they are focusing on the wrong thing. The excess weight is not the problem; poor health is the real issue!
When it comes to weight loss, one of the keys to being successful is to focus on building better health, as opposed to focusing on burning fat or losing weight. Excess body weight is a symptom of decreased health. Therefore, instead of treating the symptom with dangerous drugs or supplements, or trying to take short-cuts or using quick-fixes, efforts would be better spent on treating the cause(s) of the problem (poor health).
Bottom line: If a person is healthy, he or she won't be overweight!
A 'health building program' (a.k.a. 'Weight-loss Program') should be comprised of the following:
Proper Nourishment- A diet that is comprised of primarily whole, natural, raw and living plant-based foods (such as fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, sprouts, and herbs). Adequate calories and nutrients must be taken in. Remember, the goal is to gain health. Starving oneself will lead to weight loss, but to poor health as well. Eating only when hungry, avoiding overeating, and not eating right before bedtime is recommended as well. Clean water to drink and bathe in is a must. Adequate fresh air, sunshine, and good hygiene habits are imperative too. Healthy weight loss will be very difficult to achieve when deprived of all these nutrients.
Proper activity and rest ratios- Both exercise and rest are important factors in a health building program. Exercise is simple. Pick something that is desirable and do it. Make it fun and enjoyable. Playing (instead of "working out") is the key to staying committed. Rest is just as important. Besides sleep, quieting the mind every day is also valuable (e.g. meditation). Without proper rest, the body can't repair and transform. Inadequate rest leads to elevated stress levels, which can lead to weight gain. Harmonizing the body with the ‘master rhythm' (up with the sun, and down with the sun) is important. This will help to keep the body's weight-management hormones functioning correctly.
Loving Relationships- One of the biggest reasons people fail with their New Year's resolutions is a lack of loving support. People are often a product of their environment. Loving support from family, friends, and others on the better health journey can act as the spark that helps to keep one on track. So, get the support you need and you will be more likely to succeed.
In loving service,
Dr. SAM
Should I get a flu shot?
Flu season is upon us. Yes, it's that time of year again when some mysterious bug flies around and makes everybody ill. Millions of people will flock to the nearest flu-shot center and inject a bunch of chemical garbage into their bloodstream with wishful thinking that this somehow is a solution to minimizing the evil wrath of the flu bug. It's also the time of year when people over-indulge in junk food, alcohol, other drugs, late night partying, a lack of sleep, a lack of exercise, too much time indoors, and other health degenerating things. So, it's either one or the other, or both, that will make an individual run down and sick.
As mentioned in past newsletters:
* NATURAL HEALTH CAN'T BE BUILT FROM UN-NATURAL MEANS!
* THERE ARE NO SHORT-CUTS FOR BUILDING A HEALTHY IMMUNE SYSTEM.
* YOU MUST EARN GOOD HEALTH!
By injecting a vaccine into the body, the first four lines of normal immune defense are by-passed:
* Skin
* Mucous membranes
* Gut lymphoid tissue
* Lymphatic neutralization
This abnormal introduction of pathogens and junk into the blood stream does not 'trick' the immune system; but it does contaminate it!
Does it really make sense to bombard the body with synthetic garbage, when the body has the ability to provide selective immunity on it's own (something NO vaccine can guarantee)? If you wouldn't voluntarily drink a shot of this same stuff (vaccine contents), then why would you voluntarily inject it directly into your bloodstream?
So, what does help build a strong immune system? Healthful living-of course.
I know I mention the concept of 'healthful living' in many past newsletters and blog posts, but it's a concept that still appears to be foreign to many people. They want to 'take everything,' but a proper dose of healthful living measures. A proper diet and lifestyle can build and maintain a strong immune system. This IS the best defense a person can have!
When not feeling well, just ask yourself which health essential is missing? For example, proper diet, fresh air, sunshine, sleep, movement, hygiene, love and support... what's missing?
Then, take more of that thing!
Taking a flu shot is a personal choice. However, before doing so, I would recommend highly doing your own research so that you can make a conscious choice-- one that serves you best.
In loving service,
Dr. SAM
The Health Model: A New Direction in Healthcare!
There is no doubt that a new direction in healthcare is needed. However, this direction should be a simple one. What is needed most is a "Health Model"--a model that promotes health, not that treats symptoms or ignores causes. This health model should be: sound in philosophy, in harmony with nature, in accordance with the principles of vital existence, correct in science, grounded in ethics, and in agreement with common sense.
In this video below I discuss such a "Health Model" vs. "The Other Model"
Enjoy!
In loving service,
Dr. SAM
The Great SAM-Genie presents: 'Bad Health Be Gone!'
I must admit that have an alter ego. That's right! His name is the "Great SAM-Genie." In order for me to stay sane on most days when in the clinic, I have to call upon him to help me solve health problems quickly. You see, in today's world, people want everything yesterday. Healing is no exception. People want the quick fix! They don't have time to be sick or injured. They have too much other stuff to do or get done. So, to meet this need, I just call upon the Great SAM-Genie for some magical healing powers. You see, with the crossing of my arms, and then the blinking of my eyes combined with one head nod, I can transform all bad health habits, diseases and/or injuries. I just say the magic words: "Bad health be gone!" And then, so it's done!
No health problem is a problem for the Great SAM-Genie! Diabetes? No problem! Cancer? No problem! Chronic Fatigue? No problem! The Great SAM-Genie can do it all. He can warp time and space. He can access past lives and heal all genetic lineages as well. Don't believe me? Well... here is a recent testimonial from a one satisfied customer.
"I couldn't believe it when my Chronic B.S. Syndrome disappeared instantly after one session with the Great SAM-Genie. All he did was cross his arms, flip his head, and then in a blink of an eye (literally), my 'bad health be gone'. I can't thank you enough Great SAM-Genie for your healing magic!"- Imfullofit Always (Fromnowhere, GA)
So, I would like to let you know that the Great SAM-Genie is available for phone consultations and distant healing sessions also. No need to call. Just picture him in your mind and he will be there. He will help to serve all your healing needs.
Let's not kid each other. The real magic is in the body itself! The body IS, and WILL ALWAYS BE the one calling the shots. HEALTH IS EARNED! Stamp this on your freakin' forehead. Read it. Live it. Know it. Only then, will you stop wasting time, money and energy looking for the holy grail of healing or healers. The search is over people. It's time to awaken to the true divine self! The same power that created you is the same one that will heal you.
Embrace it!
Love it!
Heal Yourself!
The Great SAM-Genie has spoken! (And I'm now sane again!)
In loving service,
Dr. SAM
An 'adequate fat' diet:
Fats are important for many reasons. They are needed for normal hormone production, insulation of the body, proper functioning of the cardiovascular system, brain and nervous system, and vital organs; building of cell membranes, formation of our skin, and the absorption of certain nutrients (such as Vitamins D, E, K, and A). Fats also supply energy to the body. Fats are comprised of smaller units called fatty acids. Some are considered essential, and others non-essential. The essential ones need to be part of a diet as the body cannot make them.
Let's now discuss how much fat is needed to be healthy? Answer: It depends! Yes, that's right, it depends on your body's needs at a given time. 'Low-fat diets' are becoming more popular and I'm glad to see this trend, as I feel that the average diet is much too high in fat and low in good quality carbohydrates (fruits and veggies). I don't believe high-fat diets are healthy. (And... NO, the 'Mediterranean Diet' is not healthy because of all the olive oil they eat. It's healthy because they eat a large amount of fruits and veggies). I don't advocate eating all the butter, cheese, oils, bacon and lard that you want. Stick with plant fats. They are much healthier and much easier to digest.
Dr. SAM hodling a Durian- (a.k.a. "King of Fruits")
Most whole natural foods have some fat in them, so if you are eating a healthy diet comprised of a variety of natural, organic, whole foods, it's pretty hard to be on a 'no-fat diet.' However, I've seen many people shun overt fats (foods that obviously contain fats) completely. This combined with not eating enough food overall, usually leads to not getting 'adequate fat' in one's diet. Consequently, one's health begins to suffer.
If you are a vegan/vegetarian, I would consider keeping the following foods (overt fats) in your diet: avocados, raw nuts and seeds, coconuts, durian, etc. These foods are healthy and worth eating. So, how much fat is good? I recommend no greater than 15% of total calories come from fat for most adults (Note: Fat % may be higher in infants and children). How will you know how much you are eating? You have to keep track. The body naturally does this, and it will tell you how much fat to eat. However, since many people are out of tune with their body's signals, one may have to keep track in a food journal. For the little time it takes to write down what you eat throughout the day, it's totally worth it as this will help you maintain a healthy diet.
I've seen both ends of what I like to call the 'fat disconnect' spectrum (including both inside and outside of the raw food world). The 'disconnect' means that what a person thinks he/she is doing is not the same as what is being done. So, I've seen people that tell me they are on a 'low fat diet,' and yet 60% or greater of their calories come from fat! Then, there are the people telling me they are getting enough fat in their diet, yet they try to shun all fats and end up not getting enough. In both cases, I've seen their health suffer.
So, pay attention and strive for an "adequate fat diet".
In loving service,
Dr. SAM
Meet Billy: Man's 'Other' Best Friend:
I don't know about you, but I like to eat-- and eat well! So... although I thoroughly enjoy hanging out and playing with dogs, I would say that man's 'other' best friend is a farmer. With food prices going up and the food supply being heavily adulterated, I would recommend highly getting to know your local farmers really well. I have made friends with several farmers in my local area and it gives me great peace of mind to know where my food is coming from. I do grow some of my own food; and I highly recommend that as well. However, you can't know too many farmers. The guy in the picture with me is "Billy." He's been living in my part of town most of his life. He has been farming the land he lives on for many years, and he has some great figs, tomatoes, cucumbers and other delights.
So, how and where do you meet the farmers near you? One good place is at a "farmer's market." A farmer's market is simply a place (indoors or outdoors) where people gather at a scheduled block of time to meet and talk with the farmers (or people representing them), and buy food from them directly. This can be a fun experience. If you have never shopped at a local farmers market, I would suggest doing so sooner than later. I've learned some great things from the farmers I've met (about farming and about many other things as well). I've even had a chance to do some hands-on healing with some of them. It gave me great pleasure to serve those that are feeding me well.
How do you find a farmer's market in your area? Two simple ways would be: to ask around town if such a thing exists; or to do a search on the computer for farmer's markets in your area. If you have no luck, then you may want to start one yourself.
People often ask me:
"Where do you shop? What stores do you buy your food at?"
My reply is usually: I like to shop at Billy's, Scott's, Floyd's, David's or Husein's.
"Where is that? I've never heard of those stores," they reply.
"They are not stores. I buy directly from the farmers," I say.
"Wow, you are so lucky," they often reply.
"It's not luck; it's a choice," I tell them.
As much as possible: GROW YOUR OWN FOOD!!!
As much as possible: Buy local! Eat seasonal! Eat organic!
If more people would do these things, it could vastly improve the health of people and the planet immensely. If you need some help in doing this, make friends with your local farmers.
In loving service,
Dr. SAM
Microwaves: A modern-day inconvenience.
Most people who own and use a microwave consider it a convenience. They believe this because they feel it saves them time when they want to heat something up quickly, such as food or water. However, this so-called 'convenience' may really be an inconvenience.
Here's why:
Microwaving destroys the nutrients in your food. Even the structure of water is altered in a way that makes it unhealthy to consume. Remember, this is RADIATION we are adding here. Once a food is microwaved, and then ingested, the body usually mounts a severe immune system response to it. What does this mean? It means the body is significantly rejecting this kind of food. It's treating it like a foreign invader. Consideration should be given to the potential leakage of numerous toxic chemicals from common microwavable foods packaging as well. This is one more reason to just stick with Nature's real fast, convenient foods-- RAW FRUITS AND VEGGIES!
Microwaves are used in the field of gene altering technology to weaken cell membranes. Scientists actually use microwaves to break cells apart. Read that last sentence again. Okay, again. Has it registered yet? Okay, let's say it this way: When your tissues are directly exposed to microwaves, violent deformations in your cells can occur. This can also lead to what is known as "microwave sickness."
Microwave radiation can come at a cost, including but not limited to:
* Insomnia, night sweats, and various sleep disturbances
* Headaches and dizziness
* Swollen lymph nodes and a weakened immune system
* Impaired cognition
* Depression and irritability
* Nausea and appetite loss
* Vision and eye problems
* Frequent urination and extreme thirst
By the way, microwaves are not just emitted from microwaves. There is ample data emerging that people are suffering (to various degrees) from these kinds of symptoms who are living next to cell phone towers and other high-frequency radiation emitting antennas as well, which emit microwaves around the clock. Cordless phones (especially the base towers) emit unhealthy frequencies as well.
Of course, I have often heated this kind of rational: "Well.. we have radiation all around us, so you really can't get away from it." Yes, we do live in a modern-day sea of radiation. SOOOO... why would you want to voluntarily add to this? You definitely can't control everything around you, but there are some things you can control. Since human beings are all now exposed to such pervasive radiation, there are no longer any control groups. What does this mean? Lack of a control group makes it very challenging to conduct any meaningful health studies. However, we have all the evidence we need in my opinion. By the way, were you aware that microwaves are banned in some other countries? There must be a good reason for this.
Some recommendations:
- Stop using your microwave completely.
- Don't walk around with your cell-phone glued to the side of your head all the time. Keep the phone away from your head, and use the speaker option.
- Keep all cordless phone bases out of your bedroom and not right next to you all day long.
- Keep all alarm clocks away from your head.
- Go wired vs. wireless in your house and business if possible. If you are wireless, shut it off at night when you are sleeping.
Although a modern-day convenience may seem like it saves you time up front, there is always a price to pay in the long run--one that will usually cost much time, money and energy as it pertains to your health. Therefore, it's really an inconvenience.
In loving service,
Dr. SAM
New Energy Drinks- Don't Believe the Hype!
Every day in the clinic I see somebody (either a patient or a co-worker) sipping on an "energy drink." If you haven’t noticed yet, there is a big push for a new generation of energy drinks on the market. These drinks are touted as giving you the same benefits (which are practically none) as other so-called energy drinks, but without the caffeine. They are “all-natural” energy drinks. The primary concern about these energy drinks is that there is very little regulation in regards to what is put in them.
In other words, companies are allowed to mix just about whatever they wish together to form an energy drink (with very little regard to its general effects or safety upon the public). The infamous “all-natural” marketing slogans will sure to be running rampant to promote these beverages.
Why is this occurring? Most likely, for two reasons: First, there is a market for these drinks as many Americans continue to need more energy. Second, the real dangers of caffeine are starting to finally surface. So, it is only logical that new energy drinks be brought onto the market to replace the old ones.
However, caffeine is “all-natural;” it’s just not safe. It doesn’t give you energy, it just stimulates your nervous system, only to further exhaust your body and make you more tired. These new so-called, caffeine-free energy drinks will do the same. They will drain you, whether or not they are made from caffeine, or from ginseng, ephedrine, guarana, echinacea, or any other all-natural stimulants.
Bottom line: More energy comes from getting enough sleep! Breathing properly, being nourished (and hydrated) correctly, getting adequate sunshine, keeping your body physically fit, not polluting your body with toxins, regulating your stress properly, and cultivating loving relationships in your life are all important as well.
You can’t undo the effects of poor living habits with an energy drink--no matter what's in it! So, don’t believe the hype. It’s the same thing; different drug!
Simply put: If you want more energy, take better care of yourself!
In loving service,
Dr. SAM
Are you getting "De's" on your Health Report Card?
Remember when you got your last report card? It's probably been years ago. Nobody wanted a D on their report card. It meant that you were not performing too well in one area or another. Well, one of the things I do with my patients and clients is grade their overall health. Well... here is what I've found on many report cards: LOTS of "De's".
Let me further explain what I mean by "De's" as it pertains to health. I have found that there are four main De's that will govern whether or not a person suffers from poor chronic health--a.k.a. "De"-generative disease conditions.
Here they are:
1. De-hydration-- not enough water.
2. De-mineralization-- not enough minerals.
3. De-polarization-- not enough chi (life force energy).
4. De-oxygenation-- not enough air.
So, how can one go from De's to A's on his/her health report card? I could go into a long explanation as to the why's, but since many people get too caught up in trying to know instead of do, I thought the how's are more important to discuss.
Following these simple steps every day may help to improve your health grades:
1. Sunbathe (preferably nude) every day for at least 10-15 minutes; and without sunscreen or sunblocks whenever possible.
2. Eat plenty of whole, organic, raw and living plant based foods (fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, sprouts, legumes, tubers, herbs, wild edibles) in proper combinations. Eat only when hungry and emotionally stable; and stop when full.
3. Drink and bathe in clean water every day (natural spring water, well water, distilled water, or filtered and structured water).
4. Touch the earth with your bare hands and feet for at least 10-20 minutes every day. If you can't walk barefooted, then stand with your bare feet on the bare earth and hold some bare earth (soil) in your hands. In general, don't spend the majority of your day with shoes on if possible.
5. Breathe slowly, fully and deeply most of the time.
6. Sit in a quiet place and receive Divine guidance.
7. Minimize your overall exposure to toxic chemicals, people, technology and places.
8. Exercise, stretch, dance, move, and engage in occasional strenuous physical activity.
9. Get plenty of rest and sleep in a well ventilated, low-no EMF (electromagnetic field), sleeping environment.
10. Send and receive LOVE to everything around you!
This 10-step plan is not that hard to do. You don't have to be perfect; you just have to do better than you are doing now if you want to see improvements in your health. TIME will be the crucial factor in this process. These simple steps compounded over time will work!!!
In loving service,
Dr. SAM
Nutrition: A 'Limited Approach' to Good Health
Let me first say this: NUTRITION IS IMPORTANT! There, I said it. Okay?
However, now let's talk about how nutrition may be a 'limited approach' to improving your health. First, let's rephrase the old saying: "You are what you eat." Why? Well... because it's not totally true. You are not what you eat, but rather, you are what you assimilate (digest and absorb from what you eat). You can be on the best diet possible and still not be optimally nourished. If you have poor assimilation, you will not be healthy.
So, what causes poor assimilation? There could be many factors, such as a deficiency in HCL (hydrochloric acid) in your stomach, poor pancreatic function (decreased digestive enzyme production), and vitamin and mineral deficiencies (B-12, magnesium, chromium, for example). Inadequate chewing, eating in a stressful manner, and eating foods in poor combinations can also impair assimilation. Eating late at night, eating when not truly hungry, or when upset can alter assimilation as well. Structural factors, such as muscle tension, bone misalignment, or nerve interference in various parts of the body (especially at the base of the skull, upper neck, diaphragm, and pelvic regions) could be impairing your digestive and assimilative functions also. Poor breathing and poor posture should be considered too.
As I mentioned in my last blog post on detoxification (see Detoxification Made Simple Part 2- found below), one's emotional and spiritual diet is just as important as his/her physical one. So, what you put into your mind and spirit is just as crucial as what you put into your mouth. It also means that trying to correct your so called 'nutritional deficiencies' with food and/or supplements won't work when what you really need is some cognitive reconditioning or spiritual growth. In other words, you can't be optimally nourished when your mental/spiritual diet (thoughts/emotions, self-talk and overall vibration) is poor. Pay attention to what comes out of your mouth, as this is just as important as what goes in.
Optimal nourishment will be lacking if/when you are also lacking correct amounts of: sleep, sunshine, exercise, clean air and water. If your home and work enviroments are toxic (physically and mentally), and/or you do not have loving, meaning relationships with others on this planet, good nutrition will be hard to attain. Remember, food (your physical diet) is only one nutrient that makes up total nutrition. These other factors just mentioned above are part of the nutrition formula as well.
As I've shared many times before: YOUR HEALTH CAN ONLY BE AS STRONG AS IT'S WEAKEST LINK(S)! This means all the links are interdependent and equally important; and nutrition is no exception to this rule!
So, here is a good take away for you: If you are going to test for everything under the sun that you could be 'deficient in' to remedy your health, taking a more global look at your overall nutrition first may help you determine where the true causes of your health challenges may really be. Simply trying to fix all your health problems with just a nutritional approach is not only limited, it's very often unsuccessful.
In loving service,
Dr. SAM
Detoxification Made Simple: Part 2
In "Detoxification Made Simple: Part 1," we discussed the first six ways that your body will detoxify itself naturally and safely. To review, here they are again: Poo, Pee, Move, Breathe, Rest, and Sleep. Now, in Part 2, we will discuss six more ways the body detoxifies itself.
7. BATHE- Bathe every day in all or at least one of the following: water, air and sunlight. Your body will thank you for it. Your skin is one of the largest detox organs you have, and it likes a bath on a daily basis. Wet and dry skin brushing can also be a great addition to one's detox regimen. When you do bathe, avoid using harsh, irritating chemicals on your skin (including certain soaps, sun blocks, perfumes/body lotions and deodorants). Taking a 'sound bath' may be beneficial as well. This could be done by surrounding yourself with healing sounds of nature, or by toning the sacred vowel sounds (as was discussed under the BREATHE section in Detoxification Made Simple: Part 1).
8. SWEAT- Speaking of skin, allowing your skin to breathe and purge is a good idea. Working up a sweat is a great way to detoxify the body. Get in the sun or a sauna; or just move around until you sweat. If your body odor is strong and malodorous, you may have an overload of toxins in your body. Sweating them out (as opposed to holding them in) is a good idea. Therefore, antiperspirants are not recommended. You need to sweat. If you want something to absorb moisture (and possibly odor) safely, then try using some aluminum-free baking soda.
9. LOVE- Love conquers all! Yes, it's true. So, love yourself, love others, and love the planet. LOVE is a very cleansing energy. Don't be afraid to love or be loved. Hug at least one person every day (with his/her permission of course). Love yourself enough to consume a healthy diet and have a healthy lifestyle. Express tears of joy or sorrow when needed (crying is another great way to detox). Surround yourself with loving people, and help to create a loving atmosphere wherever you go. Live your life from a loving space. This will help you from becoming toxic in the first place.
10. CLEAN- Keep your body, home and work environments clean (and once again, without the use of harsh, irritating chemicals). You are a product of your environment--both internal and external. Therefore, keeping your environment clean is an important part of the detox process. Put another way: IT WILL BE MUCH EASIER TO KEEP YOUR ENVIRONMENT CLEAN IF YOU STOP CONSTANTLY POLLUTING IT!
11. DRINK- Keep your body well hydrated with plenty of clean water (natural spring water or filtered water will do). A diet rich in fresh fruits and veggies can also help you meet your water needs. Besides water, the addition of some fruit smoothies and green veggie juices can aid the detox process nicely as they are full of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients needed to keep the body healthy. Alcohol, coffee, most teas, caffeinated beverages, diet drinks (with artificial sweeteners), sodas and most commercial sports drinks are not recommended, as they are often full of false promises and do more harm than good.
12. EAT- What should you eat to help detoxify the body? Whole, natural, organic plant-based foods (fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, sprouts, legumes, tubers, herbs, and wild edibles). What about supplements? Yep, when and if you think you need them. Just remember, supplements are NOT substitutes (they should help complete your diet, not compete with your diet).
What you don't eat is just as important as what you do eat! As mentioned above, if you don't put garbage in your body, it will not have to work so hard (detox) to remove it. Things recommended to avoid: PROCESSED FOODS- such as refined sugar, refined starch and grains, hydrogenated oils/trans fats, processed meats and dairy, most spices and condiments and GMO's.
Sometimes, the best diet is no diet at all. Now and then, your body will turn off it's hunger signals and want you to skip some meals (this is called fasting). It's wise to listen to your body. If you are not hungry, don't eat! (no matter what the occasion, time of day, what your friends are doing, etc.) When the body loses it's hunger, it's because it wants to catch up on house cleaning. Let it do it's job.
Your emotional and spiritual diet is just as important as your physical one. What you put into your mind and spirit is just as crucial as what you put into your mouth. Be aware of your thoughts, and think before you take action as all actions have consequences (some more favorable than others).
So, in summary:
ALL you need to do to detoxify your body safely and naturally is: Poo, Pee, Move, Breathe, Rest, Sleep, Bathe, Sweat, Love, Clean, Drink, and Eat. For most people, this is usally the best place to start. Why? Because it's not that hard, not that time consuming, and not that expensive! Oh yeah... and it works!
In loving service,
Dr. SAM
Detoxification Made Simple: Part 1
The word "detoxification" has become a huge buzz word in the last several years. Many people seem to be on "detox diets" and "detox programs". However, there seems to be much confusion on how to best perform the detox process. Guess what? Your body is built to detoxify itself. Think about its design. The largest organs (e.g., liver, lungs, kidneys, stomach, spleen, bowels/bladder, and skin) are detox organs. So, all one needs to do to detoxify the body is cooperate with it by treating it correctly.
Or, you can choose to complicate the matter by investing large amounts of time, energy, and money in expensive, complicated detox products that are often unnecessary, unsafe and ineffective. Do you really think other species make the concept of detoxing really difficult? They just follow their instincts; and so should we!
In most cases, I don't suggest that there are any special foods (e.g., herbs), or procedures (e.g., colonics), that are needed to detoxify the body. Trying to speed up this natural process via unnecessary tonics, herbs, drugs, mixtures, concoctions, potions, or crazy detox diets is often a waste of time, and in many cases can do more harm than good.
If a person really wants to aid the detox process, then adopting healthier dietary and lifestyle habits is a much wiser choice, and it will serve him/her better in the long run as well. Unhealthy dietary and lifestyle habits are usually the main reason why a person's body gets overburdened with toxins to begin with, so it would only make sense to correct this cause.
The body has its own methods for detoxing naturally. In this blog post (Part 1), I will discuss the first six methods. In "Detoxification Made Simple Part 2," I will discuss the remaining six ways the body detoxifies naturally.
1. POO- WHEN YOU HAVE TO GO... THEN GO! It's amazing to me that people will suppress this urge for minutes, hours, or even days on end! Worse yet, then take a bunch of "detox tonics," swallow some pills, or jam a hose up their butt to try and fix their poor internal health. Newsflash: Having a couple of bowel movements EVERY DAY is normal! Yes, that's right. You are supposed to go poo every day. And, at least 1-2 feet of it should be moving through you as well. As unbelievable as that may sound, that is normal bowel health.
When you have to go, then please assume the correct position (which is a deep squat). Since the average person cannot squat down deeply, placing one's feet on a small stool so that the knees are above the hips while sitting on the toilet will suffice. This places the body in a position so that the bowels can empty themselves out correctly. Whether you are an adult or child, sitting on the potty with your legs dangling and feet off the floor is not conducive to performing a bowel movement efficiently (so you will retain more toxins).
2. PEE- Same as Number 1- (no pun intended); WHEN YOU HAVE TO GO... THEN GO! No, it's not an inconvenience; it's your body's way of helping you remain healthy. Yes, that's right. Peeing several times a day is NORMAL! If you think this is inconvenient, try having bladder, rectal, or urogenital cancer.
Voiding (pooing and peeing) is an act of survival. Without it, the body will not function properly. Therefore, this instinct of self-preservation should NOT be suppressed. It's always sad to hear when a child is not allowed to go to the bathroom and made to "hold it," when there is no good reason to do so. What does this accomplish? Not much, other than making a child self-conscious about a natural act that helps to keep him/her well. If this bad habit ("holding it") is carried into adulthood, it can definitely lead to poor health as the body's sanitation department is not allowed to do its job correctly.
3. MOVE- That's right, MOVE! Get up off your gluteus maximus and do some exercise. What kind? Any kind that you will do that's safe. Exercise helps bodily fluids (blood, lymph, cerebrospinal fluid) flow better, as well improves the strength of your muscles and bones. I personally like rebouding, yoga, resistance training and hiking to name some. However, one of my favorites is just working outside in my garden and orchard. I also love to just play. You don't need any fancy equipment (that's just an excuse not to take action). Put on some music and dance. Make something up. You can even call it the "Detox Dance." There, I just gave you a good name. Now, you just need to make up some cool dance moves to go with it.
4. BREATHE- The quality of air your breathe and the quality of how you breathe is paramount for detoxification to occur properly. Your lungs can remove up to 65% toxins in your body! (Yes, go back and read that one again.) Seeing as you may breathe up to approximately 20,000 times per day, any slight improvement in the way you breathe would be of benefit to you. Laughter is also a good form of therapeutic breathing. So, laugh every day!
Don't pollute the air you breathe with nasty chemicals that claim to freshen the air. There is one great air freshener- FRESH AIR. That's right; open a window. Making the air smell differently with chemicals only pollutes it. If you need an air cleaner in your work or home environment on an occasion for some reason, then use one. Also, consider having some natural air fresheners around (they are called plants).
Speaking is a form of breathing also. Speak your truth. Say your peace. Don't hold it in. Express yourself. This can help you cleanse your mind, body and soul. If you have nothing to say, just making some noise can help release blockages (physical, emotional, spiritual) and cleanse you as well. You may want to learn to tone the sacred vowel sounds (uh, uu, oh, ah, eye, aye, ee) for up to 10 minutes one or more time per day.
5. REST- Yes, R.E.S.T. = Reliable Easy Safe Technique. The body needs rest in order to work correctly. Detoxification is no exception to this rule. In fact, when resting, the body will usually catch up on it's "house cleaning tasks." Many people have become conditioned to believe that taking a nap in the middle of the day or just lying down and resting for 10-15 minutes is a waste of time, as they have better things to do. Well, if not properly rested, it will be hard to accomplish these other things. Rest can be in the form of just sitting in silence, meditation, or just taking a break from a stressful or busy lifestyle. RESTING = HITTING THE RESET BUTTON
6. SLEEP- Sleeping is an advanced form of resting. However, some serious detoxing happens when you are sleeping. The body's cleaning crew shifts into hight gear when you go to sleep. So, get to bed at a decent hour every night (preferably by 10 pm at the latest). Oh yeah... there are no such thing as "night owls." If you think you are one, I encourage you to keep the main lights off in your house at night and see what happens. Yes, you go nighty-night pretty quickly! Don't fight the urge to go to sleep. Yes, you may wake up earlier if you go to bed earlier. That's the point-- your body will become more in tune with Natures' master rhythm (light-dark cycles), which helps to regulate the detox process as well by the way.
So, in summary:
The first six ways that your body will detoxify itself naturally and safely are: Poo, Pee, Move, Breathe, Rest, and Sleep.
This is not that hard, not that time consuming, and not that expensive!
Be on the lookout for "Detoxification Made Simple: Part 2" due out later this week, where I will discuss six more ways the body detoxifies itself.
In loving service,
Dr. SAM
Omega 3's may be growing in your Backyard
Fats are important for health for many reasons. They are essential for normal hormone production, insulation of the body, proper functioning of the cardiovascular system, brain and nervous system, and vital organs; building of cell membranes, formation of our skin, and the absorption of certain nutrients (such as Vitamins D, E, K, and A). Fats also supply energy to the body.
Fats are comprised of smaller units called fatty acids. They are found naturally this way in whole foods. There are different varieties of "essential" fatty acids. They are called essential because, like vitamins, the body needs them and cannot make them. Thus, we need to be sure we get enough from our diets. Omega-3 fatty acids tend to be the one that many people are lacking.
Well, guess what? You may have a source of Omega-3 fatty acids already growing in your backyard. It's called: "Purslane." It usually grows spread out flat on the ground. It can often be found growing in almost any unshaded area, including flower beds, vegetable fields, and even waste places. It grows in both cold (Canada) warm climate areas (e.g., the Caribbean).
Purslane has been used in salads and as a medicinal plant (for people) for hundreds of years. It is a vegetable green used in many Latin American countries (called "Verdolaga" in spanish). It is also popular as a salad green in France and other European countries. It can be eaten fresh or cooked. It tends to not have a bitter taste, which makes it appealing. It has a mucilaginous quality; and therefore some consider it a great addition for soups and stews.
Identifying Purslane: It's comprised of rosettes of fleshy, paddle-shaped leaves, each with a small (1/4" wide) yellow flower. It tends to grow low to the ground in large circular mats (up to 1.2m across). It's succulent with short leaves (<1" long) scattered along its brownish stems. The flowers tend to only open for a few hours in the morning sun. Purslane usually has five petals, but sometimes it may have four or six. Its seeds are ovate to triangular, reddish brown to black and are shiny. Purslane can usually be found in the months from June to October.
So, who cares?
Well... with the way food prices are going up, this info could come in very timely. Purslane is said to contain more Omega-3 fatty acids than any other leafy vegetable plants.
So, check your yard and some of the fields around you (only if they are pesticide free of course), as you may have a rich source of Omega-3's waiting for you. If you don't have it growing wildly near you, then consider planting some.
Note: Some other common names worldwide for Purslane include:
* Akulikuli-kula
* Ancharupa
* Beldroega
* Berbin
* Coupe-Pied
* Coupier
* Farfena (Central Oman)
* Gelang pasir
* Golasiman (Philippines)
* Krokot
* Ma Ch'Ih Hsien
* Ngalug (Philippines)
* Parpinah
* Perpine
* Pig weed
* Porcelana
* Pourpier Commun, Pourpier
* Purslane (U.S.)
* Pusley (U.S.)
* Rigla (Egypt)
* Semizotu
* Stilchi (Garo in India)
* Suberi-Hiyu
* Verdolaga (Dominican Republic)
* Vertolaga (Peruvian Amazon)
Going Bananas over Fruit! Featured
Going Bananas over Fruit!
I was recently involved in a banana eating contest. I ate 17 in 30 minutes. (Yes, there is a reason they call me: "Monkey Boy.") This performance was not too shabby. However, I didn't win. More importantly, I didn't feel bloated, tired, or ill after engaging in this contest. In fact, I went back to work (some serious manual labor on the farm). Some video footage of the contest can be viewed below for your entertainment-- WE HAD FUN!
First, some more on fruit...
I LOVE fruit, and I highly recommend eating plenty of it.
Why?
Well....
- It's been eaten for over 10,000,000 years.
- It's considered a "perfect food" nutritionally.
- It's full of filtered and structured water.
- #1 BEST food for overall physical health.
- #1 BEST source of clean-burning calories for fuel.
- #1 BEST source of most vitamins.
- #1 BEST source of most enzymes.
- #1 BEST source of most coenzymes
- #1 BEST source of most antioxidants
- #1 BEST source of most phytonutrients
- #2 BEST source of most minerals.
- #2 BEST source of soluble fiber.
- It tastes GREAT!
- Many fruits can be eaten in their natural state.
- It never gets old or boring.
- There are so many awesome fruits in the world.
Besides all this, fruit promotes extreme biodiversity and provides a loving synergistic relationship with people, other creatures and the planet, fruit trees give high yields and create great topsoil, and fruit trees produce food for many years.
I have come to realize that the amount of fruit I eat in one meal is what many eat in a week. Either I'm eating way too much, or many other people are not eating enough (and I'm betting that the latter is true).
So, how much fruit should one eat? As much as your body cares for.
Fruit is NOT the cause of diabetes, cancer, chronic fatigue, candida, and so many other things people blame on fruit. When eaten correctly (more details here), fruit allows people to thrive optimally.
If I can eat 17 bananas at one meal, surely you could add a few more bananas to your weekly dietary regimen.
Enjoy the video of the contest!
Is 'natural healing' for the birds?
Okay, I'm sitting on my deck catching some life-giving rays of sun, when all of a sudden I hear this loud thud. When I opened my eyes, I saw that a bird had decided to kamikaze into my sliding glass door. Now, I don't know why he didn't see the window sticker I had placed on the door. I put it there so this kind of thing wouldn't happen. Anyway... the poor little guy was hurting pretty badly. He was really shaken up. He tried to fly, but it looked as though he was disoriented and his wing was injured. So, I did what any really dialed-in, intuitive, natural healing physical therapist would do. I did some hands-on healing with him.
As I approached the little guy, I told him that he was safe. I kept my voice soft. I told him that he had a bit of an accident, but that if he would just stay calm, his body would heal itself. As I touched his back, his feathers softened. His eyes closed peacefully. It was then that the real healing began. His body went into this deep state of relaxation. He remained there for about 20 minutes as I kept the area around him free of harm.
Then, I could see the life force come back into his body. His eyes opened. His movements become more lively. His awareness sharpened. His legs started to get stronger. His wings started to move. Then he tested his new found body with a practice run. It was a short flight from the deck to the fence--ranging about 20 ft. He then hopped down onto a nearby tree, then to the ground. He then went into another REST phase for about 30 more minutes. After this second bout, he was flying free again.
So, what is the take home message? Don't fly into my sliding glass doors. Seriously, the real message is that the body will heal itself if given the right conditions. Did I heal this bird? No, nature did (the bird healed himself). I just helped facilitate the process by removing any obstacles to healing. Accidents or injuries may happen in your life. If they do, consider using the "R.E.S.T. Method" as a large part of your healing process. This entiails just simply lying down and resting until you feel better. If you do not need any life saving emergency care, then this method will most likely serve you best.
REST is not a waste of time. In fact, it's a valuable use of time, especially when injured or ill. All too often, people try to short-cut this part of the healing process. There is only one way to rest--and that's to rest! You can't rest if you are over-stimulating your body with un-necessary drugs or other so-called: "therapeutic interventions." These things only delay the healing process.
The body is automatically programmed to heal itself. This is happening all the time (significantly at certain times more than others). For example, when you go to sleep every night, your body goes into a massive cleansing and healing mode. The same is true when injured or ill; and your body will require MORE rest to heal properly. So, the best thing you can do is give your body what it needs.
Dr. SAM's RAW-habilitation: Costa Rica Waterfalls & "Jacuzzi in the Jungle"
Hello again from Costa Rica. In this video, we will explore some amazing waterfalls as well as a "jacuzzi in the jungle" (a.k.a. "cool pools") at the Farm of Life Healing Center in Costa Rica. This is worth a few minutes of your time. So, sit back and take in this healing experience.
Enjoy!
More to come later this week.
RAW-talk with Dr. SAM
Here is another blog post from Costa Rica. This post contains a short video interview I did at Finca de Vida ("Farm of Life") with some guests from various geographical locations. You get to hear their opinions about the farm and how good they feel.
Enjoy the video.
More to come later this week.
Life on the Farm & RAW Events
As I mentioned in my last newsletter, I would be blogging from Costa Rica. This blog post shows Chris Kendall and I talking about Finca de Vida (The "Farm of Life" where I am now), the Woodstock Fruit Festival, and the results of Chris's blood work (The-Raw-Advantage).
Enjoy the video.
More to come later this week.