" Chocolate ... "

This could be the very minute

I'm aware I'm alive

All these places feel like home

You're the only thing that I love

It scares me more every day

On my knees I think clearer

Goodness knows I saw it coming

Or at least I'll claim I did

But in truth I'm lost for words

A simple mistake starts the hardest time ...

~ Snow Patrol ~ Chocolate ~

***

During our recent trip to Costa Rica, we had the opportunity to learn about raw cacao and how to make 90% dark organic chocolate within the rain forest Eco-resort we lodged at.  

What is Cacao ...

The botanical name for the tree that chocolate comes from is the Theobroma Cacao.  The word cacao comes from the Olmec people from what is now Mexico.  History shows that chocolate was passed on from the Olmecs to the Mayans and then to the Spanish.  

Cacao is a top source of antioxidants, and it contains an abundance of magnesium and iron.  Cacao powder has been an important food in South America for thousands of years.  Free of any sugar or fillers, raw cacao powder provides a healthy abundance of antioxidants.  Cacao is usually inter cropped with other plants and trees, such as plantains, maize and spices.  

“ ... Cocoa trees grow to between 12 to 15 metres high, and it is about 3-4 years before the flowers first appear. The tiny blossoms are so intricate that insects have difficulty finding their way inside to fertilise the pollen. Because this vital journey to reach the flowers' stamen is so difficult, out of the 10,000 blossoms produced by each tree, only about 20 - 30 are pollinated and become cocoa pods. Each pod contains about 40 seeds which become cocoa beans. It takes one tree's whole crop for the year to make three big bars of Divine ... “

How Chocolate begins ... 

Chocolate begins with the harvest of the cacao pods. Because the pods grow in all degrees of ripeness and at any location on the tree, most harvesting is done by hand with machetes ... 

The pods are split open to reveal the cocoa beans which are surrounded by the fruity pulp of the pod.  This pulp is sometimes used to make drinks or desserts, as it has a 

pleasant fruity taste with subtle chocolate flavour   

The beans and pulp are scraped from the pods and left to ferment in baskets for two to eight days. This step is crucial, as the fermentation process mellows the flavor of the beans and imparts the fruity undertones of the pulp. Without fermentation, the beans would be too astringent and bitter to enjoy. Many high-quality chocolates undergo a long fermentation process, which can be tasted in the floral, fruity notes of the final product. 

After fermentation, the beans are spread in a single layer and left to dry completely, usually in direct sunlight.Then, they are roasted to bring out the most intense chocolate flavors and colors. After roasting, the shells of the beans are removed and the “nibs”remain which is the essence of the cocoa bean that’s full of cocoa solids and cocoa butter.

The nibs are ground to a thick, rich paste called chocolate liquor (a misleading term, since the product contains no alcohol). This liquor is the foundation for all chocolate products, and at last begins to resemble and smell like conventional chocolate. The liquor is pressed to remove the cocoa butter, which leaves a powdery disc known as “cocoa press cake.” 

Press cake, when pulverized, becomes common cocoa powder. At this point, the chocolate process differs depending on the recipe and formulation of the manufacturer. If the chocolate is low quality, the pulverized press cake will be mixed with vegetable fats, sugar, and flavorings to become substandard chocolate. If the chocolate is going to be higher quality, cocoa butter will be re-added to the chocolate liquor, along with other ingredients like sugar, vanilla, and milk ... 

The final step in determining the ultimate flavor and texture of the chocolate which is up to the creator.  Finally, the chocolate is poured into molds and cooled for up to 4-6 hours until set.  

One ounce organic raw cacao powder contains:
Calories: 120, Calories from Fat: 23
Total Fat: 2.5g, 4% Recommended daily value
Saturated Fat: 1.5g, 7%
Sodium: 20mg, 1%
Total Carbohydrates: 19.0g, 6%
Dietary Fiber: 7.0g, 28%
Protein: 5.0g

 www.walkstrong.ca

" Coconuts … "

Brother bought a coconut 

He bought it for a dime. 

His sister had another one * 

She trade it for the lime. 

She put the lime in the coconut 

She drank them both up. 

Put the lime in the coconut, 

You drink them both up 

Then you feel better ...

~ Harry Nilsson ~ Coconuts ~

***

Years before, I remember going to the movie theatres and shunning the popcorn because it was popped in coconut oil.  Why?  Because coconut oil was to be avoided due to harmful saturated fats.  Yet research is showing that coconut oil actually can be a source of healthy fats, along with being a versatile ingredient that has dozens of uses beyond cooking.

Coconut oil got its bad reputation in part because of its use when hydrogenated.  Hydrogenated oils and trans fats are especially unhealthy because they raise our LDL (lethal cholesterol) and lowers our HDL (healthy) cholesterol.  

Experts say that coconut oil is considered one of the single most nutritious super foods you can put in and on your body.  Specifically look for organic, unrefined, expeller-pressed coconut oil.  This is the unprocessed product derived directly from the organic coconuts with minimal processing or modifications ... the more processed, the less health value offered.

Avoid low quality coconut oils as they are processed by chemical extraction using solvents which produce higher yields, is quicker and less expensive ... remaining oils contain chemical residues, hydrogenated, bleached and deodorized contaminants.

***

Coconut water or juice 

is the liquid inside the coconut.

Coconut milk 

is from the expressed juice of grated coconut meat & water.

Coconut oil  

is the fatty oil that comes from the coconut meat.

***

We’ve noticed that eating coconut oil on a regular basis has provided numerous health benefits ... healthier skin & hair, weight loss, boosts immunity, better digestion and supported metabolism.  Plus, there is loads of reports on how coconuts can provide relief from kidney problems, heart dis-eases, high blood pressure, diabetes, HIV, cancer and bone strength.  

Why?  ... because of high levels of lauric acid, capric acid and caprylic acid.  The presence of these acids contributes to coconuts antioxidant, anti fungal, antibacterial and antimicrobial properties ...

Also, some great uses of coconut oil include the following ...

• highest source of natural electrolytes
• substitute for butter, margarine and other spreads
• rich in medium-chain fatty acids (MCT) helps with weight loss
• loaded with vitamin E, great moisturizer from head to toe
• alternative choice for an all-natural diaper cream or baby salve (plus safe to use with cloth diapers)
• use for massages rather than other oils
• easily absorbed by hair, use as product to prevent protein loss and damage
• helps treat xerosis (dry, scaly and itchy skin)

Always check with your health care practitioner prior.  
This is for information purpose only.

" Full Pull ... "

Revving up my engines.

Lighting up the sky.

Red and yellow fire.

Burning in my eyes.

Full Pull!!!! Can you feel the power?

Full Pull!!!! Let me take you through the night.

Full Pull!!!! At a thousand miles an hour.

We're running hot and that's what you got.

Full Pull!!!!

Let's take it while we can ...

Ahh, This is just what we need ...

~ Kane Roberts ~ Full Pull ~

***

You may have heard about a traditional Indian folk remedy called “Oil Pulling”.  Originating from Ayurvedic literature, oil pull involves swishing oil in the mouth and is capable of improving oral health and treating systemic dis-eases.  And although “scientific evidence” may be “lacking” for some, there has been many studies to support these claims.

Since I was quite intrigued by this home remedy, I did my research and have made this part of my morning ritual.  It involves rinsing the mouth with 1 tablespoon of oil for 15 to 20 minutes and spitting it out.  

By helping the body get rid of toxins that have accumulated, 

oil pulling promotes self healing from within ...

Ayurveda advises oil pulling in the morning after brushing your teeth, cleaning you tongue and on an empty stomach.  To assist in healing, you can oil pull more than once a day but ensure that it is one hour after drinking or eating.  As well, when we do oil pull, the entire oil should become thin, like water, be white in colour and have no oily feeling should be left.  When that happens we would have utilized the entire oil for its purpose.  

The recommended oils to use are 

Sunflower or Sesame Oil, organic, cold-pressed, 

as it has been observed that other oils may not be as effective ...

Out of interest, a survey conducted in Andrha Jyoti (1996) asked practitioners to provide their personal data along with duration of practice and type of dis-ease cured.  Of the 1,041 people who practiced oil pulling and responded 89% reported a cure of one dis-ease or more.  The dis-eases reported included “allergies, common cold and cough, gum diseases, infections in the mouth, ear, nose, throat, eyes, and pains like headache, migraine, tooth pain, neck pain, back pain, lip cracking, fevers, and irritability ... all felt energetic, active and well.”

Some food for thought ... so if you are curious consider talking to your holistic health practitioner, your local health store or even checking uber sources online.  They’ll be sure to help you get started and give it a pull ...

" My Favourite Things ... "

"Girls in white dresses with blue satin sashes
Snowflakes that stay on my nose and eye lashes
Silver white winters that melt into spring
These are a few of my favorite things!"

~ Julie Andrews ~ My Favourite Things ~

***

During my wild journey this year, I have had the opportunity to explore a variety of "things".  And since tis the season, I thought I would put together ... a few of my favourite things to share with you.  Hopefully you may appreciate them just as much as I do.

FRESH LOCAL PRODUCE at Co-op, Amaranth, Planet Organic, Community Natural Food Store and Kingsland Farmers Market 
~ we are so fortunate to have a variety of stores to select our produce from ... Go Organic!! ♥

TINY DEVOTIONS 
~ These mala beads are sacred necklaces that have been worn for thousands of years in traditions of yoga, Buddhism and Hinduism.  They are gorgeous, and so hard to choose from, but my favourite ones are the Turquoise Ocean Mala, African Jade Mala, African Turquoise Mala, Transition Mala and the Mala of Fire.  Check it out ... you'll see why it is hard to pick just one ♥

JUIL 
~ I love these funky sandals and what JUIL represents ... ♥
" Life is energy. Energy is life. It's that simple. But as technology has connected us to the world all around us, we're very often disconnected from the most powerful, most rejuvenating energy source on earth: the earth itself. Ordinary shoe soles block us from what our bodies need most" ..

LULULEMON 
~ everyone loves Lulu, yoga-inspired athletic apparel ... fits every body with no judgement and no competition ... just like my yoga practice.  Namaste ♥

HOT YOGA ON CROWFOOT 
~ an amazing workout with loving and supportive teachers, this is my favourite yoga studio where I take a journey through my heart and let my breath guide my path ♥

COREPORATE CARE THERAPY 
~ for over 10 years, my healing support and my beautiful friend, Jolene Tse, has gifted me with various healing modalities.  
Truly an angelic experience ♥

AMATSU Eastern Healing Arts Clinic
~ Dr. Christian Perez embraces an Eastern approach to healing that safeguards health and longevity with early intervention.  Providing an  environment that has allowed me to recuperate and heal on my wellness journey, words cannot describe my gratitude ♥

APPLE 
~ My everyday life line ... my MacBook Pro, the best investment I ever made ... and as we know gift cards are great for apps, add ons, upgrades .... iLOVE ♥

ALBA BOTANICA 
~ One of the recommended brands by the Gerson Institute, Alba uses pure plant proteins, natural botanicals, vitamins, advanced sea enzymes and tropical fruit, nut and plant essences from the Hawaiian islands ... SO good for you ♥

NATURAL ESSENTIAL OILS 
~ finest and purest natural products, essential oils are considered nature's effective tools for stimulating and storing positive energy, and supporting our quest for a balanced, healthy and harmonious life ♥

BE.OLOGY T-SHIRTS 
~ word and thoughts carry energy ... pick an phrase and express yourself ... just BE ♥

SALON FLI 
~ a funky hair salon with award winning stylist ... my girl Naomi made me feel so special at a time when I didn't feel that special ... Much Love ♥

HEALING RECIPE EBOOK 
~ fearless Jess Ainscough, my fellow Gersonator compiled this holiday recipe book ... the aim is not only to provide us with 30 amazing recipes to try out during the holidays, but also to show us that the process of healing does not have to be carried out with deprivation and guilt ♥

UGG CLASSIC SHORT SPARKLES 
~ just check these out ... oooo shiny sparkles ... everyone deserves to sparkle ♥

O MAGAZINE 
~ one word ... Oprah.  enough said ♥

YOGA JOURNAL 
~ le sigh ... one day I WILL be able to complete the posture on the cover of YJ ... in the meantime, dare to dream ♥

SHAKTI MAT 
~ a new design of an ancient tool, this mat uses effective acupressure points from pain and discomfort to a pleasant feeling of relaxation ♥

NUMI ORGANIC TEAS 
~ nothing beats a blissful cup of tea, Numi preserves our earth's resources and protects the health of the farmers ... ensuring that what is going into our bodies is 100% natural, made the way nature intended ♥

BsaB CANDLES
~ BsaB recognizes life is a fragile and beautiful balance ... providing 100% natural products, they are committed to positively affecting the environment and humans ♥

CANADIAN SHEEPSKIN GLOVES 
~ c-c-c-old Calgary winters, and I mean minus 30 degrees Celsius require some serious protection ... and these cuties caught my eye and promise to keep my digits nice and toasty ♥

"Tea In The Sahara ..."

"My sisters and I
Have this wish before we die
And it may sound strange
As if our minds are deranged
Please don't ask us why
Beneath the sheltering sky
We have this strange obsession
You have the means in your possession

We want our tea in the Sahara with you
We want our tea in the Sahara with you"

~ Sting ~ Tea In The Sahara ~

***

Today I had the pleasure of sharing a cup of tea with a loving friend.  I love visits, they sure do make my day.  And it was not just an ordinary tea we shared, it was Tulsi tea.  I was fortunate to have my Mom give Russell and I this plant which we have growing in a pot near our kitchen window.  Growing up, I knew about the Tulsi plant, mainly because of references made in bollywood movies nicely wrapped with some religious connection.  And I would admire it from afar every time we visited my parent's home.  My Mom is very proud of her Tulsi plant and then one lucky day, she gave me one to grow and nuture.  Yaay me!

So what is Tulsi you may be wondering?  Well, Tulsi (Hindi: तुलसी ) is also known as the "Holy Basil".  It is an aromatic plant ... considered widespread as a cultivated plant and an escaped weed.  It grows tall with hairy stems and simple opposite green leaves that are strongly scented.  Tulsi is cultivated for religious and medicinal purposes, and for its essential oil.  It is widely used across South Asia as a medicinal plant and an herbal tea.  Commonly used in Ayurveda, it has an important role within the tradition of Hinduism, in which devotees perform worship involving Tulsi plants or leaves.  India recognizes this sacred herb because of its health benefits and healing properties.

So what's all the healing hubbub about?  ...  Well, Tulsi is known for its rich antioxidant properties that are known to promote wellness by building the body's immune system, reducing stress and promoting mental clarity.  By protecting cells from the damage caused by free radicals, Tulsi facilitates the cause and progression of various types of dis-eases; basically inhibiting the growth of cancer cells.  And on a daily basis, Tulsi can help with infections from viruses, bacteria and fungi.  Sounds pretty cool eh?

So why not give it a go?  Perhaps skip that coffee and try out some Tulsi tea.  Pop down to your local organic food store and explore the tea section.  There a loads of brands to choose from.  And remember, above all else, it tastes so SO good, especially on a gorgeous fall day with a loving friend ... ahh BLISS!

"Potatoes ..."

"I don't have time
To feel the pain
Why should I feel?
I can't complain ...
Heeeeey ...Potatos in the dark
Pickles in the light
Cabbage on wheels
Drive around"

~ Caffeine ~ Potatoe ~

***

Today as I was getting my tatters ready for baking I started to wonder exactly how many of these suckers I have eaten over the last 33 weeks.  On the Gerson therapy, we are required to have at least one baked potato for lunch and one for dinner.  So, loosely calculating ... close to 500 potatoes thus far on the therapy.  Holy tatters Batman!!! ~ that is a whole lotta carbs no?  And I say carbs for a reason ... you see for the longest time, I stayed away (as most of you do) from loading up on carbs.  The myth "carbs make you fat".  Well that sure as heck is not the case.  Carbs don't make you fat, the "toppings" make you fat ~ oils, butters, creams, dressings, dippings, and fixings.  And if you really think about it ... it makes sense.  Now this is referring to real carbs, not packaged, processed and canned.  We all know that well, that stuff is just not good for us at all.

One of the main principles in the Gerson therapy is to provide the body with a high potassium and low sodium diet.  Within Charlotte Gerson's book "Healing the Gerson Way", she writes about her father's discovery around these two minerals and how their imbalance in the body can lead to serious health issues.  Once sorted, our bodies can heal as they are made to do so.  Yet the average diet is far from this.  Most diets these days are rich in sodium which lead to various dis-eases including cancer.  So why is sodium so bad for us?  Well sodium itself is not "bad" but remember the saying ... everything in moderation?  To the point, excess sodium feeds tumours allowing them to grow.  

So back to why I ingest soooooo many potatoes.  Well, to get my diet back to the higher potassium and lower sodium ratio, the more potatoes the better ... because potatoes are enriched with potassium.  An average size potato has 110 calories and 750 mg of potassium compared to 10 mg of sodium.  Also as an added bonus, potatoes are the cheapest source of potassium.  As you know all of our produce is organic, but we can still purchase a 5 lb bag for ~ $8.  Not bad when you consider an average bevy at the Starbucks is ~ $5.

So as I eat my potatoes twice a day, I can't help but smile and think of a few potato funnies to share with you.  They may make you laugh, but at the very least, may peak your craving today for potatoes ...

• What do you call a baby potato? A small fry!
• What do you say to an angry 300-pound baked potato? Anything, just butter him up.
• What does a British potato say when it thinks something is wonderful? It’s mashing!
• Why did the potato cross the road? He saw a fork up ahead.