 Its roots are used as a diuretic and to treat fevers. Banisteriopsis caapi
(Malpighiaceae)
Ayahuasca
Description  Woody vine growing to 100 ft
(30 m). Has smooth bark, oval leaves, and bunches
of small red or yellow flowers. Habitat & Cultivation  Ayahuasca is native
to jungles of the Amazon basin. It is cultivated by indigenous peoples, but the wild herb is preferred for medicinal use.Part Used  Bark. Constituents  Ayahuasca contains beta-carboline
alkaloids (including harmine, harmaline, and delta-tetrahycroharmine), which stimulate hallucinations. History & Folklore  In the Quechua language,
widely spoken in Peru and neighboring countries, ayahuasca means “spirit of the dead,” indicating  the awesome powers traditionally attributed  to this plant. Another native Indian name is nixi  honi xuma, meaning “vine from which the vision extract is made.” Ayahuasca bark, which is often used in combination with members of the Datura genus, is the primary hallucinogen among many Amazonian tribes, being prepared as part of complex ritual ceremonies. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Though known
as a powerful hallucinogen, ayahuasca is also a medicine, being used as a remedy to cure a range of diagnosed conditions. However, ayahuasca is usually taken by the healer rather than by the patient. In the shamanistic societies of the Amazon, ayahuasca allows the healer to communicate with the spirit world where illness arises, interceding on behalf of the ill person and the community to restore health and harmony to all—quite unlike the individualized approach of Western medicine. Beyond its ability to affect mood, the bark is emetic and purgative. At low doses it is used as a mild detoxifier. RQ Caution  Ayahuasca is taken traditionally as
part of a rich, complex ritual which affects the experience produced. Medicinal use of this plant  is not advised. Wild indigo, a North American plant, was used by the
Penobscot to treat wounds. Black
horehound
was an ancient
Greek remedy
for dog bites.Ballota nigra (Lamiaceae)
Black Horehound
Description  Straggling perennial growing to 3 ft
(1 m). Has oval, toothed leaves and pink-purple
flowers in whorls at the base of the upper leaves. Habitat & Cultivation  This herb is found
throughout much of Europe, in North America, and in Asia. It thrives in open areas, in pavement cracks, and by roadsides, mostly near human habitation. It is harvested when in flower in summer. Parts Used  Aerial parts. Constituents  Black horehound contains
diterpenoids, including marrubiin, flavonoids,  tannins, saponins, and a volatile oil. History & Folklore  The Greek physician
Dioscorides, writing in the 1st century ce, recommends a plaster of black horehound leaves and salt for dog bites. He also advocates a balm, made from the dried leaves and honey, to purify infected wounds and ulcers. Medicinal Actions & Uses Though long
considered a remedy for convulsions, low spirits,  and menopausal problems, black horehound is rarely used today. Authorities differ over whether there is any substance to claims for its earlier applications. The herb is currently used by Anglo-American herbalists as an antiemetic—preventing or reducing nausea or vomiting. It is perhaps most useful when nausea arises from disorders of the inner ear (such
Baptisia tinctoria (Fabaceae)
Wild Indigo
Description  Herbaceous perennial growing to
3 ft (1 m). Has a smooth stem, clover-like leaves, and purplish-blue flowers in small terminal clusters. US_158-179_Abies_balsa_Boswe_serratta.indd   176 26/02/16   12:47 pm177 other medicinal Plants
Wax gourdPart Used  Root. Constituents  Oregon grape contains
isoquinoline alkaloids (including berberine,
berbamine, and hydrastine) and other alkaloids
of aporphine-type. These alkaloids are strongly
antibacterial and are thought to reduce the severity
of psoriasis.Benincasa hispida syn. B. cerifa
(Cucurbitaceae)
Wax Gourd,
Petha
Description  Hairy annual climber. Has 3-lobed
leaves, tendrils, and large yellow flowers. Produces
rounded fruit (gourds) about 16 in (40 cm) long. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to tropical
Asia and Africa, this herb is cultivated in India
and China as a vegetable. The fruit is harvested
in late summer. Parts Used  Fruit rind, fruit, seeds. Constituents  Wax gourd contains saponins
and guaridine. History & Folklore
Wax gourd has been used
as a food and medicine
for thousands of years. It
was first documented in
the Tang Materia Medica,
written in 659 ce.Ber Beris vulgaris
Habitat & Cultivation  Native to eastern parts
of North America, wild indigo grows from North
Carolina to southern Canada in dry, hilly woods. Parts Used  Root, leaves. Constituents  Wild indigo contains isoflavones,
flavonoids, alkaloids, coumarins, and polysaccharides. The isoflavones are estrogenic, while the
polysaccharides are immunostimulant. History & Folklore  Wild indigo was
commonly used as a poultice by Native Americans
and New World settlers to treat snake bite. The
Mahicans used a decoction of the root to bathe
cuts and wounds. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Wild indigo is
a strong antiseptic and immunostimulant, though at
more than moderate doses it can produce nausea
and vomiting. It is considered particularly effective
for upper respiratory infections such as tonsillitis
and pharyngitis, and is also valuable in treating
infections of the chest, gastrointestinal tract, and
skin. Its antimicrobial and immunostimulant
properties combat lymphatic problems—when
used with detoxifying herbs such as burdock
(Arctium lappa, p. 65), it helps to reduce enlarged
lymph nodes. Wild indigo is frequently prescribed
along with echinacea ( Echinacea spp., p. 92) for
chronic viral conditions or chronic fatigue
syndrome. A decoction of the root soothes sore
or infected nipples and infected skin conditions. When used as a gargle or mouthwash, the
decoction treats canker sores, gum
infections, and sore throats. QCaution  Best taken on
professional advice.Medicinal Actions & Uses  In Chinese
herbal medicine, a decoction of wax gourd seeds
is used to “drain dampness” and “clear heat.” It is
given for chest conditions and vaginal discharge. In combination with Chinese rhubarb ( Rheum
palmatum, p. 126), it is prescribed for intestinal
abscesses. In Ayurvedic medicine, the seeds are
used to treat coughs, fever, and excessive thirst,
and to expel tapeworms. In an ancient Indian
recipe, the fruit juice is mixed with lime juice
(Citrus aurantiifolia ) to prevent or stop bleeding. Research  The fruit appears to have a cancer-
fighting effect.History & Folklore  Californian Native peoples
took a decoction or tincture of the bitter-tasting
root for loss of appetite and debility. In the 19th
and early 20th centuries, Oregon grape was an
important herb in the Physiomedicalist movement,
based on a combination of orthodox and Native
American practices. In this context, it was
prescribed as a detoxifier and tonic. Medicinal Actions & Uses  Oregon grape
is chiefly used for gastritis and general digestive
weakness, to stimulate gallbladder function, and to
reduce congestion problems (mainly of the gut). It
also treats eczema, psoriasis, acne, boils, and
herpes, and skin conditions linked to poor
gallbladder function. Research  Clinical use of extracts of Oregon
grape has been investigated in Germany, and there
is now evidence that the root can be effective in
relieving psoriasis. Extracts can be taken internally
and applied locally on the skin. The alkaloid
berberine is thought to prevent cell proliferation. Related Species  Barberry ( B. vulgaris, see
following entry ) is similar to Oregon grape in its
overall action, but it is generally stronger in the
effect it produces. Caution  Do not take during pregnancy. Berberis vulgaris (Berberidaceae)
Barberry
Description  Thorny deciduous shrub growing
to 10 ft (3 m), with leathery leaves, yellow flowers,
and red berries in autumn. Habitat & Cultivation  Native to Europe,
barberry is naturalized in North America. It is
cultivated as a garden plant and medicinal herb. The bark is gathered in spring or autumn, and the
berries in autumn. Parts Used  Stem bark, root bark, berries. Constituents  Barberry contains isoquinoline
alkaloids, including berber


) a day for up to 3 monthly cycles. Caution Do not take if menstrual bleeding is heavy. Premenstrual Syndrome
Herbs Vervain ( Verbena officinalis, p. 149), linden
(Tilia spp., p. 277)
Remedy (Internal)  Make an infusion using
either herb (or an equal mix of both) and drink up
to 3 cups (750 ml) throughout the day. Herb Valerian ( Valeriana officinalis, p. 148)
Remedy (Internal)  T ake tablets containing
valerian, or take 20–40 drops of tincture with
water up to 5 times a day. Herb Rosemary ( Rosmarinus officinalis, p. 128)
Remedy (External)  Make an infusion with
1 tbsp of dried or 2 tbsp of fresh leaves to
1 quart (liter) of water and strain into a warm bath
each morning. Alternatively, add 5–10 drops
of essential oil to a bath. Note  Also try the chaste tree remedy under Irregular
Cycle above. Breast Tenderness & Sore Nipples
Herb German chamomile ( Chamomilla recutita,
p. 77)
Remedy Make a compress with an infusion of
50 g of herb and 1 cup (250 ml) of water. Place
gently over the breasts. Repeat as often as
required to achieve relief. Herb Calendula ( Calendula officinalis, p. 73)
Remedy Apply ointment to the nipples. If breastfeeding, wipe off the ointment
before feeding.Fluid Retention
Herb Dandelion ( Taraxacum officinale, p. 141)
Remedy Make an infusion with the leaves and
drink up to 12/3 cups (450 ml) a day. Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
Herb Chuang xiong ( Ligusticum wallachii ),
white peony ( Paeonia lactiflora, p. 117), dong quai
(Angelica sinensis, p. 63), rehmannia ( Rehmannia
glutinosa, p. 125)
Remedy Mix equal parts of each root and
make a decoction using 15 g of the mixture
to 3 cups (750 ml) of water. Drink in 3 equal
doses throughout the day. Note Any of these herbs will help, but they are
best together, in which form they are known as
Four Things Soup. Herb Shepherd’s purse ( Capsella bursa-pastoris,
p. 183), nettle ( Urtica dioica, p. 146)
Remedy Make an infusion using 7.5 g of each
herb (or 15 g of shepherd’s purse only) to 3
cups (750 ml) of water. Divide into 3–4 doses
and drink throughout the day. Period Pain
Flavor the decoctions with 1 heaping tsp
of caraway seeds ( Carum carvi, p. 184). Mix
before decocting. Herbs Wild yam ( Dioscorea villosa, p. 91),
cramp bark ( Viburnum opulus, p. 150), black haw
(Viburnum prunifolium, p. 281)
Remedy Make a decoction using 15 g of herb
to 3 cups (750 ml) of water. Sip small amounts
during the day; or take 2 tsp of tincture with
water 3–4 times a day for up to 3 days, then
reduce the dose to 1 tsp a day for 5 days, or
take tablets. Herb White peony ( Paeonia lactiflora, p. 117)
Remedy Make a decoction using 20 g of root
to 3 cups (750 ml) of water. Sip this throughout
the day. QSeek immediate professional
advice for:
■ Severe pain in the abdomen or pelvis
■ Significant or sudden change in menstruation,
such as prolonged, heavy, or irregular periods
Important Note
For the best treatment, consult an herbalist. Seek professional advice before taking a
remedy if you believe that you may be
pregnant. See Pregnancy,  p. 317. Before taking any herbal remedies, see pages 290 & 298–299
US_314-315_Urinary_And_Fungal_Infections.indd   315 26/02/16   4:43 pm
316
Herbal remedies for H ome useFertility Problems in Women
Fertility Problems in Men
Menopausal ProblemsAlthough much more research is needed, herbal
medicine does appear to increase fertility in women who are trying to conceive, especially
if the problem is related to hormonal imbalances, age, or the amount of mucus produced by the cervix. Where there appears to be no physical problem preventing conception, for example a blocked fallopian tube, ovarian cysts, or internal scarring, herbal medicines are well worth trying. Diet, exercise, and lifestyle may also play a significant role in improving fertility. Impotence in men is a common problem, and
herbal medicine has been used throughout history to help restore healthy sexual function. A low sperm count, which is a common cause of infertility, is often related to lifestyle and general state of health.Saw palmetto is a tonic herb that increases
stamina. It benefits t he male sexual organs and
is reputed to increase potency. Ashwagandha is an all-around tonic that is not as stimulating as ginseng, but is nonetheless helpful in restoring normal vitality after a long-term illness or stress. Menopause is defined as the cessation of
menstruation. It usually takes place between the ages of 45 and 55. After two years without having a period, you can be sure that the “change of life” has occurred.Both estrogen and progesterone levels decline during menopause despite opinion  to the contrary. Herbs such as chaste tree, which have a progesterogenic effect, are as important
as those that support estrogen levels, since both hormones appear to help maintain bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis.Maintaining vitality is important during
menopause, since many problems result
as much from being run-down and tired, as from hormonal changes. If you feel low and exhausted, some of these remedies may help  to raise vitality and spirits. St. John’s wort is an excellent medicine for depression.Hot flashes and night sweats are principally caused by hormonal changes. However, nervous exhaustion increases the occurrence of these conditions. QGeneral caution Seek professional advice if there
is prolonged or irregular menstrual bleeding.Aiding Conception
Herb Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus, p. 151)
Remedy T ake tablets or take 20–40 drops of
tincture with water each morning for a maximum of 3 months at a time. Herb Dong quai (Angelica sinensis, p. 63)
Remedy T ake tablets or make a decoction using
12 g of root to 3 cups (750 ml) of water and drink each day for up to 3 months. Caution Discontinue if you become pregnant. General Vitality
Herb Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera, p. 152)
Remedy T ake 2 g of the dried root a day, either
by chewing it, or taking it in powder form mixed with honey and, if required, water. T ake for up to 6 weeks. Impotence & Premature Ejaculation
Herb Ginseng (Panax ginseng, p. 118)Remedy T ake 0.5–1 g up to 3 times a day for  6 weeks at a time, either by chewing the root, cooking it in a soup or stew, or taking it in  tablet form. Decreased Estrogen
& Progesterone Levels
Herb Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus, p. 151)
Remedy T ake tablets, or 20–40 drops of tincture
with water each morning. Herb Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus, p. 174)
Remedy T ake ½ tsp of tincture 2–3 times daily
with water. Herb Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa, p. 79)
Remedy T ake tablets, or take 25 drops of
tincture with water 3 times a day. Option Black cohosh combines well with sage. Mix equal parts of each tincture and take 30–40 drops (1.5–2 ml) with water 3 times a day. Depression & Decreased Vitality
Herb St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum,
p. 106)
Remedy T ake 1⁄2 tsp of tincture with water
3 times a day. Herb Oats (Avena sativa, p. 175)
Remedy Eat 25–50 g of oats as a breakfast cereal,
or with other food. Option In addition, make an infusion with oat straw. Divide into 3 doses and drink throughout the day.Low Sex Drive
Herb Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis, p. 133)Remedy Soak 5 g (a small handful) of berries
in water overnight. Strain the berries and make  a decoction with 1 cup (250 ml


 to mention caf feine. What about your shopping habits, particularly your
grocery shopping habits. What’ s in your pantry and fridge. W e won’ t eat
healthily if we d on’ t shop healthily. Who cooks in your home. What about
relationships. This is another big area that af fects our health. One of my
clients had chr onic back pain w hich disappear ed once she decided to leave
her toxic r elationship. Are  you happ y with your ca reer. What else is
unresolved in your life that may be pulling you down. As you do this self-
inquiry, you may notice patterns of behavior repeating in all areas of your
life. Thi s may give you a cleare r picture of what the real issues are, which
may be far bigger than just food. It is clear that ou r food struggles are not limited to food. Food struggles are
indicative of other bigger struggles in your life that also need resolving. When we begin to heal one area  of our life, we heal the whole of our life; it
happens natural ly and simultaneously. No extra ef fort is required but
allowance is a must. In the meantime, you can find some gentle, healthy
ways to soothe yourself other than with food. Feeling exhausted. T ake a hotbath or a nap. S et up a bedtim e routine. Have a cup of tea. Light some
candles. Slow down and just be. Sit with a warm blanket and a cup of tea
and enjo y lookin g out the wind ow. Feeling anxious and worried. Learn to
pray. Create an altar in your ho me to “physicalize” your prayers. T alk to a
friend, g o for a w alk. Y ou get th e picture. Y ou can do this, one tiny step at a
time. 8. M O V E,  M O V E,  A N D  M O V E
I can ’ t s tress thi s enough. Our b ody represents the sub-stratum of our mind. Moving and breathing is how w e circulate the ener gy of stagna nt thoughts
and feelings and help them trans form. W ithout involving our body, we can’ t
experience freedom or peace, we can only talk about it. Both breathing and
meditating are inner movements  that do the trick. Outer movements which
engage the physical body, such as walking, running, swimming, yoga,
biking, playing sports, and gym activities are all wonderful ways to move. Everything is ener gy and freque ncy is one way to measure it. O ur thoughts
and emotions are also ener gy. A sedentary body creates a dif ferent thought
than a body that is in motion. Give it a try. Dif ficulty getting out of bed in
the mor ning is a classical symptom of depression. The bod y has been
mostly still during sleep at night, but the situation gets better once the
person begins to move. Going for a brisk walk can immediately change
your mood. A body in moti on gives motion to your thoughts and feelings, allowing
them to transform. One of the principles of ener gy is that like a ttracts like. The mor e we remain stuck in ou r negative thoughts and emotions, the more
of the same we attract into our life. T o change our outer environment, we
need to change the inner environment i.<|eot_id|><|begin_of_text|>
Q: What is the author's suggestion for addressing emotional hunger?,
A: The author suggests taking a moment to check in with yourself, acknowledging your emotions, and then addressing the root cause of your hunger, rather than just eating to cope.
Q: What is the author's view on the connection between food and health?,
A: The author emphasizes that the connection between food and health is not limited to just food, but rather it's a reflection of our overall well-being and the state of our lives. They encourage readers to explore their own life and address the root causes of their struggles, rather than just focusing on food.
Q: What is the author's advice for dealing with cravings?,
A: The author suggests that cravings can be indicative of an imbalance in our physiology, and recommends exploring the emotional and psychological implications behind them. They also emphasize the importance of finding a middle ground and not overindulging in cravings.
Q: What is the author's stance on meat consumption?,
A: The author does not take a stance on whether or not to eat meat, but encourages readers to question the source of their food and consider the impact it has on their health and well-being. They also highlight the importance of mindfulness and connection with the food we eat.
Q: What is the author's perspective on the relationship between food and the body's natural intelligence?,
A: The author emphasizes the importance of trusting our body's natural intelligence and not undermining it by ignoring our cravings or overindulging in food. They suggest that by honoring our body's needs, we can achieve a more holistic approach to health and well-being.<|eot_id|><|begin_of_text|>I can share many stories with
you abo ut healing myself and my son without doctors and now know, in no
uncertain terms,  that doctors do n’ t know the best option for you, as they
only present one option. It is up to us to choose what’ s best for us. Healing is not a glamorous or a romantic journey; in fact it can shake you to
your core. But it is empowering. And the results are nothing short of
miraculous. The  well-meaning doctor took my power away by making me
believe sur gery was the only option. He had an opportunity to educate me,
give me  options, and inform me of the aftermath of the sur gery, and I would
have walked away equipped with information on which t o base my
decision. Instead, he decided for me and used my pain as an opportunity to
sell only  what he had to of fer. He left me confused and disempowered. This
is a norm al ever yday occurrence  in the medical world. So, before you rush
to a quick fix and hand your h ealth over to someone else, think long and
hard. Ask around, look around and get the answers you need. Feeling confused is a sign to pause and wait until the confusion lifts. Y ou
will know when something is ri ght for you. Y ou need to trust t hat. One of
the skills I teach my clients is to trust in their own wisdom. W e all know our
truth; we just need to trust it and rely on it. T aking the easy way out is
actually much harder than doing  what’ s right for you. I had to endure a lot
of pain during my recovery but I was okay with it because that is what Ichose to do. Wh en we take cha r ge of our own health, something sparks in
us; our internal fire and our inner knowing. W e come alive and become a
force to be reckoned with. Don’ t  let anyone tell you otherwise. After it is all
said and  done, it is ultimately yo ur life, your health and your responsibility. Anything less than that will leave you open to be victimized. T H E  F R E S H,  H O T,  C O O K I E  T R A P
During the writing of this book, I went out for dinner with my good friend,
Sherry, and we talked about the subject of my book. She shared with me
something that I thought was very timely and needed to be in the book. It
turned o ut to be the inspiration b ehind this chapter. Here is what she shared. In the college town of Ann Arbor, MI, these “insomnia cookies” ar e all the
talk. As the name would suggest, they ar e tar geted to the inso mniacs and
ar e deliv er ed “fr esh and hot” to college kids in the middle of the night, like
at 3:00 a.m. I  checke d the company’ s website before writing this. The menu
of fers nothing but varieties of cookies like Sugar Rush, T riple Chocolate,
Cookie Cake. Etc., and the pac kaging is quite enticing and attractive. On
the surfa ce, this is no big deal; you can get cookies from any where. But
here is why this is a big deal:
Insomnia or the inability to sleep  is an illness that needs treating as it results
in other  illnesses such as ch ronic fatigue or adrenal fatigue, mental
disorders, depres sion and anxiety, to name a few. Proper sleep is  essential to
the healthy functioning of all of  the other biorhthyms of our body, and lack
of p roper sleep m akes everythin g worse. All college kids stay up during the
night and do du mb things, but now they can do dumber things and get
themselves even sicker just at the touch of a button. There is an opportunity
to te ach these k ids about healthy habits, alternative options a nd the long
term ef f ects of their actions, but instead someone takes this opportunity to
make money of f of these young people and lead them to a sicker lifestyle. By selling cookies to these kids, they are promoting insomnia  and future
illness. S ugar is a highly addictive substance which now the kids can get by
staying awake. This is why it is  of utmost importance that we wake up to
our own responsibility in creating the health and the


 n o f P D F. c o m170
Iknow that the point ofpower
in the present moment.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m171
Iamwillingtogrowandchang
Everymoment presents awonderful
opportunity tobecome moreofO c e a n o f P D F. c o m172
Iamtotallyadequate atalltimes.Ia
andcreatepeaceinmymindandO c e a n o f P D F. c o m173
Nojobisbeneath meorabove
Ifsomething needsdoing,IO c e a n o f P D F. c o m174
Itake full responsibility for every aspecO c e a n o f P D F. c o mIlo
Ever
more
moreO c e a n o f P D F. c o m176
Ideserve thebest,
andIacceptitnow. Allmyneedsand
desiresaremetbefore
Ievenask.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m177
Iexpress my creativity openly anO c e a n o f P D F. c o m178
Iamwillingtorelease
thepattern inmethatis
creating anynegative
condition inmylife.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m179
AllthatIdesire,Ireceive. Iamfulfilled inallareasofmyO c e a n o f P D F. c o m180
Iammy
bestfriend. Ilovewhat
Iseeinme.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m181
Iallow change to occur witho
resistance or fear. Iam freeO c e a n o f P D F. c o m182
Iam perfect just as Iam.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m183
Igivemyselfpermission tobeallth
andIdeserve theverybestO c e a n o f P D F. c o m184
Iamtotallyfreetochoosethoughts
ItismyDivinerighttodoO c e a n o f P D F. c o m185
Iembrace myentirebeingloveandcompassion. O c e a n o f P D F. c o m186
IlovewhoIam,
andrewardmyselfwit
thoughts ofpraise.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m187
Ireleasetheneedtoblamean
IacceptthepeoplearoundmeasO c e a n o f P D F. c o m188Thisisanewday.Iamanew
O c e a n o f P D F. c o m189
Everything in my life happens
perfect space- time sequence.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m190
Abundance isdrawntomyevery
IamamagnetforDivineprosperO c e a n o f P D F. c o m191
Iturn every exp
an opportunO c e a n o f P D F. c o m192
Itissafe for me to be flexible
to see others’ viewpoints.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m193
IhavetheDivineright
tobefulfilled inallareasof
Iamworthyofsuccess.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m194
Ieasilyflowwithnewexperiences
andnewopportunities.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m195
Ieasilyandcomfortably relea
thatwhichInolongerneedO c e a n o f P D F. c o m196
Iamtotallyandcompletely supportedO c e a n o f P D F. c o mMy
relaxatio
to
rejuve
The m
heaO c e a n o f P D F. c o m198
Ispeakupformy
withease. Iamintelligent
andpowerful.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m199
Everyexperience Ihaveleadsme
understanding ofmypurpose oO c e a n o f P D F. c o m200
My income isconstantly increasiO c e a n o f P D F. c o m201
Everyproblem hasasolution. Learning iseasyandfunforO c e a n o f P D F. c o m202
Iamwillingtogrowup
anddealwithmyfeelings.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m203
Other people respect me
because Irespect myself.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m204
OnlythatwhichInolongerneedlea
Everything thatsurrounds meservesO c e a n o f P D F. c o m205
Ilookforward withenthusiasm
theadventures oftheday.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m206
Iexpectlifetobesafeandjo
Iattractallthatisgood.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m207
Myheartisopen. Ispeakwithlovingwords.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m208
IrejoiceinwhatIhave,
andIknowthatfresh,new
experiences arealways
aheadofme.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m209
Ihaveunlimited choicesaboutwhatMymindfeelsfreeandligh
O c e a n o f P D F. c o m210
Iamnowwillingto
seemyownbeauty
andmagnificence.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m211
Iamtotally
adequate
forall
situations.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m212
Inow choose to support mys
in loving, joyous ways.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m213
Ilistenwithlovetomybody’sm
MybodyisthepictureoftotalO c e a n o f P D F. c o m214
Ilaughat
(andatmyself
andchoose
tobeoffended
byanyone
anything.O c e a n o f P D F. c o mmy
w
lovO c e a n o f P D F. c o m216
Iamopenandreceptivenewavenues ofincome. O c e a n o f P D F. c o m217
Iamenthusiastic aboutlif
IamfilledwithenergyandoptimO c e a n o f P D F. c o m218
Everymoment presents
wonderful newopportunity
become moreofwhoIamO c e a n o f P D F. c o m219
Inowchoosetoreleaseall
andresentment.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m220
Iseeonlyharmony
aroundmeatalltimes. Iamalwayssafe
andsecure.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m221
Iexperience love whereverO c e a n o f P D F. c o m222
Compliments are gifts ofprospe
Iaccept them graciously.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m223
Iamathomeinmybody.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m224
Ithinkpositive
thoughts, because
everycellwithin
mybodyresponds
toeverythought
Ithinkandevery
wordIspeak.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m225
IlookwithintofindmytreasureO c e a n o f P D F. c o m226
IamawarethatwhatIdonotwant
exactlywhatIneedtochangetO c e a n o f P D F. c o m227
Whatever Iam g
will be asuO c e a n o f P D F. c o m228
Everyone changes, andI
changeineveryone.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m229
Iacceptmyself,
andcreatepeace
inmymind
andheart.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m230
Todayisawonderful day. Ichoosetomakeitso.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m231
Iaccept perfect
health as my natural
state ofbeing.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m232
Myunderstanding isclear,
andIamwillingtochange
withthetimes.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m233
Itakebriskwalksinthesunshineinvigorate mybodyandso
O c e a n o f P D F. c o m234
Mybodywantstobeactiveand
Exercise isfunforme.O c e a n o f P D F. c o m235
Iamfreetothinkwonderful tho
IamincontrolofmyownmO c e a n o f P D F. c o m236
Loveflows
myvery
Ittouches
Imeetand
greatercoO c e a n o f P D


, ungraspable, momentary sensation. Our
senses take snapshots of reality. Life gives us a constant flow of perceptions that we live by. The
five sen ses are the pipeline through which everything flows. But
it’s not like a continuous flow of water from a faucet. Sensations
are muc h more like rain, whi ch falls one drop at a time. W e make
sense of life using fleeting t houghts and sensations. We ignore
how ev anescent every perception really is—each sensation starts
to fa de as soon  as it is noticed. Every thought has already v anished
by the time it registers. By w aking up, we stop ignoring what is
actually happe ning all the time. The need to turn fleeting
sensations into a running movie or story fades away. For Today
Put a grain of s alt or sugar on  your tongue. Notice how the  taste
starts to diminish after the first strong taste sensation. Pay
attention to how your saliva ry glands quickly reacted and how
your throat wanted to swallow. This puts you in touch with how
brief and temporary experien ce is. But here’s the real point. Try to
taste what was on your tongue before  you  pla ced the  salt or sugar
on i t. You can’ t. That taste, which you probably didn’t ma ke note
of w hen it occu rred, has fled forever. Fleeting perceptions  are the
texture of life. YOUR EXPERIENCE:

 DAY 6

The only constant in every snapshot of perception is the
presence of being and awareness. Snapshots don’t take themselves—there has to be a
photographer behind the camera. No matter how many thousands
of photos a professional photographer takes, he is the constant
behind the lens. His job is to  look, arrange the setting, p lace the
lights, focus, and decide if the image satisfies him. You do the
same with reality. Your senses deliver snapshots of raw data,
which change in endless ways. The only constant is you, seeing,
arranging, turn ing random bursts of perception into so mething
you can relate to. Most of this happens automatically, but when
you wake up, you see what you’re doing. Then you hav e much
more freedom to create. For Today
Get bac k in touch with the b asic units of experience. Sit for a
moment and be with your simplest experience of light, warmth,
the sme lls wafting your way, the taste in your mouth. Relax into
the experience. Notice each sensation spontaneously, w herever
your att ention wanders. The more you are able to relax, the more
effortless wakin g up will be. Waking up in itself is a totally  relaxed,
spontaneous state, open to whatever happens here and now. YOUR EXPERIENCE:

 DAY 7

The stringing together of perceptual snapshots creates a
sense of continuity, the same way a movie is created from
the rapid sequence of still frames. When the invention of motion pictures revealed that our eyes
can be fooled b y stringing together a series of snapshots at  twenty-
four frames per second, a d eeper truth about reality was also
revealed. The human brain w orks by the firing of neuron s. Each
firing is  a burst of energy, followed by a pause, then the ne xt burst. The bursts slice reality into bits of information from the five
senses. When a train races past you, you are not seeing it in
motion. You are seeing bursts of information in your brain that
give the illusion of motion. Likewise, you don’t hear con tinuous
sounds. The con tinuity of your life is  a necessary illusion. We have to
see the world in motion so that we can live in motion, no t frozen
bits of sensation. Right now you are experiencing pictures and
stories created in your mind through the same piecing-together
process. When you wake up, these pictures and stories will  be seen
for wha t they are: artificial constructs of the mind. You will live
from th e “real” reality that is beyond pictures and s tories—
consciousness itself. For Today
Sit in front of a moving image on your TV or computer—this
can be anythin g, from people walking around to a news or sports
event. Focus on something m oving across the screen from left to
right. In reality there is no person moving across the screen; not a
single p hoton of light is movi ng across the screen. Instead, burstsof color are ha ppening, each one totally stationary. By s tringing
these bursts in a sequence, th e illusion of motion is creat ed. Now
notice how hard it is to see the actual process taking place before
your very eyes. Your mind m ust see motion because, since you
were bo rn, the world has been a series of pictures in moti on—this
is how conditioned you are to accept an illusion as reality. YOUR EXPERIENCE:

 DAY 8

The physical body and the appearance of the physical
world are created in the mind as constructs from
sensations that are intermittent and ephemeral. In daily life we do not investigate how the mind creates a three-
dimensional world out of random, meaningless bits of sensation. Starting with the simple world a baby experiences, everything gets
more an d more complicated. A newborn cannot focus on its hand,
which l ooks like a pink blob floating in the air. In time the blob
becomes a hand attached to the body; it acquires a name; it
develops many  skills. Medicine studies it down to every tis sue and
cell. This buildup of knowledge occurs in the mind and is created by
the min d. A naked hand has  no story to tell; it has no developed
skills. E verything a hand can become when it belongs to a skilled
painter, sculptor, circus performer, chef, or welder is mind-made. The same goes for the whol e body and the physical world. We
construct virtual reality so that we can have the pictures and
stories that are necessary for being human. For Today
Take a  sheet of ordinary 8 ½ × 11-inch paper and poke a
pinhole in the center. If you hold the paper close to your eye, you
can see the wh ole room through the pinhole—this is your mental
picture of the room. Now hold the paper one or two inch es from
your eye, until you see only p arts of familiar objects—just pieces of
lamps, chairs, windows, and so on. Try to walk around the room
seeing only these bits and pi eces. It is quite difficult. Deprived of
the picture your mind makes, the room is a disconnected  jumbleof fragmented images. Reflect on how you have used the mind to
construct the familiar three-dimensional world you accept at face
value. YOUR EXPERIENCE:

 DAY 9

The appearance of the body and the world are activities in
consciousness—verbs, not nouns—constantly and rapidly
changing. When you enter a room, go to work, or take a stroll outdoors,
the objects you see appear to be fixed and stable—but they aren’t. Your b rain is constantly firing to keep the illusion of stability
going. Your five senses cooperate by turning photons into pictures
and air  vibrati ons into recognizable sounds. In other words, you
are constantly  making the world. An ever-changing, endless
process is taking place in your awareness. Therefore, the outer
world is an ever-changing, endless process wearing the disguise of
fixed, stable objects. By waking up, you see past the mask of
matter, reconnecting with the creative process that makes the
world. For Today
Look at  a photo of a friend, family member, or celebrity. Now
turn it upside down. Notice  that you cannot recognize the face
anymore. A hitch has occurred in your brain, which is conditioned
to r ecognize faces only righ t side up. There was a process to
recognizing a face; the face itself is meaningless. Or imagine
placing a photo on a turntable and setting it spinning (you can try
this on a lazy Susan or a record player). Notice that you cannot
make sense of the photo wh ile it is revolving. The movin g world
has no reality until the min d constructs it into a human  world. Constant change acquires the illusion of stability and nonchange. YOUR EXPERIENCE:

 DAY 10

The mental construct of the body and the world is the
product of centuries of conditioning. In daily life we accept the world as a given. Trees, mountains,
clouds, and sky are simply th ere. But these are merely the scenery
of v irtual reality. Everything i n the world beyond raw sens ory data
is r ooted in mythology, history, religion, philosophy, culture,
economics, and language. Raw sensation is overlaid with this
complex conditioning. As a result, the body and the world we
perceive have been interpreted in advance. They exist as
extensions of the human drama. By waking up, you step out of the
drama to be who you really are. You see that virtual reality is a
kind of hand-me-down, which you no longer have to settle for. For Today
Here is a simple exercise in perception. Contemplate the letter
A. When you set eyes on it, you saw a simple sign made with three
short strokes of


pression	actually	hits. Is
good	sleep	a	preventive	for	depression? That’s	not	agreed	upon,	but	it’s
definitely	worth	trying	to	incorporate. PERMANENT
BRAIN	DAMAGE
An	aging	brain	leads	to	less	vitality	overall,	and	vitality	is	a	big	component	of
being	your	most	Radically	Beautiful. Researchers	at
Duke-NUS	Graduate
Medical	School	Singapore	(Duke–National	University	of	Singapore)	found	a
relationship	between	the	fewer	hours	of	sleep	adults	get	and	accelerated	aging	in
the	brain. 37
Most	of	us	presume	that	a	few	nights	of	missed	sleep	are	not	a	big	deal. We
think	we	can	recover	by	getting	more	sleep	in	the	future. But	a	study	from
researchers	at	the
University	of	Pennsylvania	found	otherwise. 38
	The	lead
researcher,
Sigrid	Veasey,	MD,	notes,	“This	is	the	first	report	that	sleep	loss	can
actually	result	in	a	loss	of	neurons.”
39
	She	continues,	“No	one	really	thought
that	the	brain	could	be	irreversibly	injured	from	sleep	loss. In	general,	we’ve
always	assumed	full	recovery	of	cognition	following	short-	and	long-term	sleep
loss. But	some	of	the	research	in	humans	has	shown	that	attention	span	and
several	other	aspects	of	cognition	may	not	normalize	even	with	three	days	of
recovery	sleep,	raising	the	question	of	lasting	injury	in	the	brain.”
40
	Whoa…now
this	is	a	pretty	strong	reason	not	to	put	off	sleep! Sleep	deprivation	is	considered	a	constant	stressor	to	your	system	and	has
been	shown	in	some	research	to	reduce	the	capacity	for	learning	and	memory. Reducing	sleep	deprivation	is	even	hypothesized	to	help	prevent	or	slow	the
progression	of	Alzheimer’s	disease. 41
	Of	course,	the	sharper	and	more	alert	your
brain	is,	the	more	powerful	and	confident	in	your	beauty	you	will	be. All	of	these	findings	help	us	to	understand	how	the	most	basic	of	nature’s
rhythms	contributes	to	every	aspect	of	life. But	please	don’t	be	alarmed. This
shift	was	not	meant	to	frighten	you	with	the	disastrous	effects	of	getting	too
little	sleep,	but	rather	to	open	your	eyes	to	all	of	the	benefits	you’ll	soon	see
from	getting	more,	better	quality	sleep. In	the	next	shift,	you’ll	learn	how	to
tune	in	to	your	body’s	natural	rhythms	in	order	to	achieve	Peak	Beauty	Sleep.SHIFT	11:
Tune	In	to	Your
Body’s
Natural
Rhythms
Nature’s	Timetable
Being	more	in	tune	with	our	natural	rhythms	aligns	us	to	nature’s	power	and
beauty. It’s	easy	to	think	of	nature’s	power	in	a	dramatic	flash	of	lightning	or	in
the	heat	of	the	sun,	but	equal	to	this	power	is	the	strength	of	rejuvenation. We
need	to	harness	this	power	to	retract	and	go	inward	in	order	to	have	the	most
effective,	deep	sleep	that	fuels	our	creative	power	and	allows	our	natural	beauty
to	fully	shine	through. Radical	Beauty	is	about	living	in	harmony	with	nature’s	inherent	wisdom. From	a	sleep	perspective,	this	means	that	the	more	in	tune	you	are	with	natural
light,	the	better. This	shifts	every	season	with	the	influence	and	timing	of	the
sun	and	the	larger	bodies	of	energy	beyond	our	planet. The	sun	coordinates	the
movement	of	the	Earth	around	its	axis,	which	influences	the	larger	seasonal
shifts	as	well	as	the	daily	shifts	that	create	longer	and	shorter	days. Even	though
these	planetary	bodies	may	seem	unfathomably	far	away	from	the	average
person,	they	actually	exert	their	influence	on	our	bodies. Since	we	possess	all	of
the	main	elements	found	in	nature,	Ayurveda	believes	we	are	miniature
representations	of	the	whole	universe,	the	entire	cosmos. Circadian	rhythms	are	physical,	mental,	and	behavioral	changes	in	living
beings	(including	not	only	animals	but	also	plants	and	microbes)	that	follow	a
roughly	24-hour	cycle. These	are	produced	by	natural	factors	in	the	body	and
respond	to	signals	from	the	environment. The	main	external	signal	affecting
circadian	rhythms	is	light,	which	influences	the	turning	on	and	off	of	an
organism’s	internal	clock. Circadian	rhythms	influence	sleep	patterns,	hormone
release,	body	temperature,	and	other	important	bodily	functions,	while
abnormal
circadian	rhythms	have	been	associated	with	sleep	disorders,	obesity,
diabetes,	depression,	bipolar	disorder,	and	seasonal	affective	disorder. 1Circadian	rhythms	are	important	for	us	to	consider	in	promoting	Peak
Beauty	Sleep. If	we	live	in	tune	with	our	natural	body	clocks	and	circadian
rhythms,	we	will	naturally	be	more	active	in	the	morning	and	wind	down	in	the
evening. An	ideal	time	to	work	out,	for	instance,	is	in	the	morning,	around	the
rising	light	and	rising	energy,	or	in	the	middle	of	the	day,	in	the	peak	of
sunlight,	as	opposed	to	late	in	the	evening,	when	the	sun	is	naturally
descending,	indicating	a	return	inward	toward	relaxation. Late	workouts	can	be
overly	stimulating	and	wake	you	up	rather	than	bring	you	closer	to	sleep. The	brain’s	electrical	response	to	rhythmic	sensory	stimulation,	such	as
pulses	of	sound	or	light,
2
	synchronizes	with	the	natural,	rhythmic	changes	in
our	environment. Our	health,	down	to	the	minute	cellular	level,	depends	on
the	degree	to	which	we	are	in	harmony	with	the	natural	cycles	of	daytime	and
nighttime. Even	basic	functions	in	our	body	that	we	often	take	for	granted,
such	as	our	blood	pressure,
immune	system	functions,	and	cellular	growth,	all
depend	on	our	rhythmic	melatonin	cycle. This	in	turn	depends	on	syncing	up
properly	with	nature’s	rhythms. We	are,	after	all,	inseparably	one	with	nature. Artificial	Light:	Friend	or	Foe? When	you	consider	the	fact	that
Thomas	Edison	successfully	tested	the	first
electric	lamp	in	1879,
3
	you	might	be	a	little	jolted	(pun	intended)	to	realize	that
artificial	lights	haven’t	been	around	very	long	in	the	broad	scope	of	human
evolution. While	the	benefits	of	electricity	are	enormous	and	obvious,	it	has
also	introduced	a	set	of	health	and	beauty	issues. This	is	due	to	the	fact	that
artificial	lighting	allows	us	to	experience	daytime	around	the	clock	if	we	wish,
making	us	completely	out	of	tune	with	the	natural	rhythms	of	the	planet. The	body’s	master	clock	is	made	up	of	about	20,000	neurons,	with	sleep
signals	traveling	from	the	pons,	an	area	at	the	base	of	the	brain,	to	the	thalamus
and	then	on	to	the	thinking	part	of	the	brain,	the	cortex. 4
	The	pineal	gland
produces	melatonin,	a	hormone	that	communicates	to	the	body	information
about	light	levels	in	the	outside	world. The	light	seen	by	your	eyes	influences
how	your	brain
interprets	this	information. When	your	body	clock	senses	a
decrease	in	light,	ideally	in	the	evenings,	it	signals	your	brain	to	produce	more
melatonin	to	induce	drowsiness	and	sleep. But	now	we	are	in	an	age	where	we	are	exposed	to	numerous	new	ass


and see yourself out of debt. Refuse to think indebted thoughts. You
will soon begin acting upon the image of yourself as a debt-free
person. You will find yourse lf tearing up your credit cards, or
consolidating your debts, or working at an extra job and doing the
things that flow from the imaging that you do in your mind. Similarly,
with your spous e, rather than act from the image you have of being
married to an impossible person, begin to act as someone who is going
to resolve your relationship one way or another. Create an image of
yourself in a relationship that is full of love and harmony, and you will
act that way. If you do not receive the feedback that is consistent with
the image, you may consider moving on along your own path alone, or
with another who is more in harmony with you. But instead of being in
turmoil because your spouse is unapproachable, you will begin to act
on the image of you as a human  being in harmony. If you work things
out, that will be terrific, and if you do not, you will move along in
peace. In either case you will be resolving your relationship rather than
feeding yoursel f on the frenzy  of a mental image of being in anintolerable situa tion. Make the situation perfect in your mind, and you
will act upon that perfectio n. The quality of relationships is
inseparably linked with our images and thoughts. What we see is
evidence of what we believe. Remind yourself that your circumstances do not make you, they reveal
you. Some people tell me that they think it is easy for me to give
advice on how to be happy and successful because I am rich and
famous. My reaction is that I feel that my circumstances reveal me. That is, I do not give advice because I am rich and famous. If I am rich
and famous it is because I have followed this advice. I have lived these
principles all of my life, and believe that that is why I have achieved
the measure of wealth or fame that is a part of my life. Look at your
life, whatever condition it may be in. Your relationships, your financial
picture, your level of happiness, your state of health. Now  try to
consider that these circumstances reveal  something about you. Acknowledge your involvement in your circumstances and view them
as a reflection of how you have been thinking and consequently  acting
upon those thoughts. You can use that power of visualization to have
the picture stay the same, deteriorate, or grow into whatever you
illuminate on your inner screen. You are what you think about all day
long. And even if you are thinking about the people who barely exist in
squalid conditio ns, remind yourself that these people, more than any
people on our planet, need to hear and believe what I am writing about. If somehow they could change their inner pictures of despair and
hopelessness to an image of something grander for themselves, and if
they steadfastly refused to imagine anything else, they would
somehow begin to make that image a reality in the physical realm. The evidence is overwhelmin g when you consider people who have
escaped from seemingly hopeles s conditions, and who report that their
belief was the impetus for their accomplishment. Secondly, know that
you are not that person. You are here, right now, the result of all the
previous pictures you have painted for yourself, and you can paint new
ones, including one of yourself assisting those who need help, if that is
what you want to do.Remind yourself daily that thought is not restricted to the confines of
time, cause and effect, beginnings and endings, and all of the other
rules that govern form. There simply are no limits in the astral realm of
thought. Armed with this aware ness, you can begin to meet others in
this realm. Relationships can exist in this area, and you can make them
come about by reminding yourse lf that everyone  in your life is a divine
entity with an intelligence behind all form. Your loved ones share their
bodies, just as you do, with God, or whatever you choose to call that
perfect intelligen ce permeating all form. Relate to them in this manner,
reach them in this new place, stay in touch with their perfection  within
their form, and you will find the quality of all your relatio nships
improving dram atically. Furthermore, you can relate to strangers in the
same fashion. See everyone as a part of the wonderful, mysterious,
invisible force that is in each and every one of us. Treat other people
like the divine creatures they are. Study the seven principles of becoming a waking dreamer by applying
one to each day of the week. Here is a sample of how you can make
this your own reality in the week to come. 1. Sunda y: Time does not exist. Spend some time today outside, in
nature, looking straight up. Try to imagine that up goes forever,
since even our rational mind tells us that the universe cann ot
simply end. If it goes forever, then it is already complete,
mysterious as this sounds. It is all complete. In a complete d
universe, time simply is mankind’ s way of helping organize the
days and keep track of things. Eternity is forever, no time, only
always. Now, what can you do with this? You can eliminate
preoccupation with time, aging, type-A  behavior, scheduling your
life, and hurryin g. It is all so perfect, this universe we are in. Slow
down and enjoy it all. Your lifetime of ninety or so years is
exactly the same as your dream  of eight or so hours. I did not
invent this notion of no time. Einstein gave it to us in amathematical sense, and philosophers from the beginning of
recorded history have reminded us of it. The Bible is replete with
references to eternity. Your lifetime in form is to be honored and
celebrated, not calculated and compartmentalized. Go beyon d
your enslavement to time and live fully in this, the only time you
have. In the Now, the working unit of your life. 2. Monday: There is no cause and effect. Today take time to
comprehend what it means just to be. You are not a human doing,
but rather a human being. While form follows all of the rules of
cause and effect, formlessness is acausal, just like the time you
spend dreaming. Now here, now there, your thoughts independent
of each other. You can get past pure cause and effect by tuning in
to your invisible  humanity. You need not continue to do the work
you trained yourself to do, simply because as a teenager, thirty
years ago, you made some decisions about what you were going
to appre ntice or major in. You need not remain governed by the
belief that past decisions cause you to be whatever you are today. You can be a creator without old rules governing your life. You
can be anything you choose, regardless of what anyone says or
does, and regardless of anything you have done or not done
before. If you can imagine it, you can be it, and your imagination,
your thinking, is not restricted to the rules of cause and effect. Today, Monday, work at not being the effect  of anything, but the
creator  of that which you imagine yourself to be. You do not need
a consultant in this matter; you simply need to put your form in
harmony with your thoughts and then just allow yourself to be it. 3. Tuesday: There is no beginning and no end. Practic e living this
day as if forever were all tied up in this day. This is forever right
here and now. Without time as a factor in this metaphysic al
experiment, today and a million years are the same. You are
eternal, and the invisible essenc e of you can never die. Knowing
this, all of the petty, worrisome areas will melt into insignificanc e.
Attachment to things you can never own will also diminishsignificantly. Look into the mirror on this Tuesday morning and
say out loud, “I am not my form. I am something much more
divine than mere form.” The fact that you can come and go in
your dreaming body independent of any time constraints gives
you evidence that the dimensio n of thought is not something to
fear, but something to savor. Today, Tuesday, live each moment as
if it were the eternity that it is, savoring everything there is to
appreciate in every moment. Make it a habit beginning today. One
moment at a time. One eternity at a time. And be patient and
loving with any fearful thoughts. Reassure your fears that you
understand their need to warn you of what they think is dange r,
and invite them to experiment with you just today, to try this new
way of thinking, safely and lovingly. 4. Wednesday: Every obstacle is an opportunity. Today, welcome
any disorderly or unpleasant behavior toward you from other
people, as an opportunity to remind yourself that they are only
talking to your form. Know that they cannot have your divinene ss
unless you choo se to share it with them, and then, perhaps for the
very first time, you will be able to see the divineness in them,
inside the form that is being unpleasant to you.


thana is nine fingerbreadths
above the muladhara chakra and
the center of it is the navel. The nadis leave Kandasthana
horizontally and vertically. Yoga Cudamani Upaniahad
In the middle
On the left
On the right
The left eye
The right eye
The right ear
The left ear
The mouth
The genitals
Muladhara
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-Yoga-shikka Upanishad
In the middle, Brahmanadi
On the left of Sushumna
from the "navel wheel",
flowing toward the root of
the navel to join Vilamba
On the right of Sushumna
from the "navel wheel'
flowing toward the root of
the navel to join the Vilamba
From the "navel wheel" to
the eye
From the "navel wheel" to
the eye
From the "navel wheel" to
the ear
From the "navel wheel" to
the ear
Flowing downwards from
the navel to discharge
impurities
In the throat, conveying
nourishment to the Head
Ending at the tip of the
tongue
Flowing downward from the
navel to convey excrement
-
From the "navel wheel" to
between the eyebrows
From the navel. Gets the
four kinds of nourishment
-
-
-
Raka drinks water instan
taneously, causes sneezing and
collects phlegm to the throat;
Citra flows downwards from the
navel to discharge semen. The beautiful nadi called
Vilamba is around the navel. The nadis originate there and
flow horizontally and vertical
ly. It is called the "navel wheel"
and looks like an egg. Gorakahashata
In the middle
On the left
On the right
Ending in the
left eye
Ending in the
right eye
In the right ear
In the left ear
Ending at the
mouth
Ending in the
penis
In the anus, i.e.,
in Muladhara
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-137
Siddhaaiddhantapaddhati
Through the palate up
to Branmarandhra
Ending in the nostrils
Ending in the nostrils
Ending in the two ears
Ending in the two ears
Ending in the two eyes
-
The anus
At the end of the penis
At the corner of the mouth
-
-
_. -
-Shandilya Upanishad
At the back of the anus
up to the head and ending
in Branmarandhra
On the left of Sushumna
On the right of Sushumna,
up to the end of the
right nostril
From behind Ida, ending
in the left eye
-
From behind Pingala
In between Gandhari and
Sarasvati. ending in the
right ear and at the tips of
the toes
Running upwards and down
wards from the root of the
anus, through the tonsils
At the side of Sushumna. run
ning to the end of the penis
Running upwards to the tip
of the right ear
Behind Sushumna, to the
tip of the tongue
Lying in between Yashasvini
and Kuhu, reaching all parts
above and below Kundahni
Between Pusha and
Sarasvati
-
_
To the very tips of the toes
-Shatcakra-Ninipana
From the middle of
Kanda up to the head
On the left of
Sushumna
On the right of
Sushumna
-
-
-
-
Below Sahasrara,
supports sushumna or. its stalk above the neck
-
-
-
-
_ Inside Sushumna
Inside Vajra Meridians (tentative)
The governor vessel meri
dian (from the upper lip to
the perineum)
The second line of the
urinary bladder meridian
(See explanation in the text)
The second line of the
urinary bladder
meridian
The third line of the
urinary bladder meridian
The first line of the urinary
bladder meridian (left)
The third line of the urinary
bladder meridian (right)
The first line of the urinary
bladder meridian (right)
The conception vessel meri
dian (from the perineum to
the mouth)
The liver meridian (from the
tip of the big toe to the eye
passing through the penis
and the nose) (?) The kidney meridian
The spleen meridian (?) The gall bladder meridian
(see explanation in text)
-
The Stomach meridian
-138
and nervous systems. As stated in the Introduction, the latter
theory may sound plausible at first, because the sushumna
nadi superficially seems to correspond to the central canal of
the spinal cord, and the ida and pingala nadis to the sym
pathetic nerve trunks. However, this theory does not
evidence a realistic correspondence with the traditional
descriptions of the nadis. For example, the Jabala Darshana
Upanishad states that ida starts at the muladhara, goes up the
left side of the sushumna, and ends in the left nostril. Actually,
though, the upper ends of the sympathetic nerve stems lying
on either side of the spine do not terminate anywhere near
the nostrils. Likewise, the sushumna, although it could possibly lie in
the central canal of the spinal column, cannot be the same as
the nerve itself.<|eot_id|><|begin_of_text|>Summarize the following text section accurately and concisely. Maintain specific details and numerical information, and use anti-repetition mechanisms:

        *
The index finger represents the jivatma (the individual soul in
each person) and the thumb signifies the paramatma (the all-
pervading Supreme Consciousness). The position of the index
finger and the thumb symbolizes the ultimate goal of yoga - the
union of the individual soul and the Supreme Consciousness. (2) Shambhavi mudra (Eyebrow-center gazing)
Sit in a meditation asana with the spine erect and the
hands on the knees in chin or jnana mudra. Gaze forward at
a fixed point and then upward as high as possible, without
moving the head. Then focus the eyes at a point directly be
tween the eyebrows and concentrate on that point. Let the
thought process cease and meditate on the self (Atman) or
the Supreme Consciousness (Paramatma). * According to yogo theory, in its unmanifest state prakriti (the primordial
energy of the universe, the most basic substance} is composed of three
gunas, or qualities, which are: tamas, rajas, and sattva. When observed by
purusha [Pure Spirit], these gunas begin to act, influencing and combining
with each other, so as to create the material aspect of the universe. 98
Duration: As long as possible. At first, for a few minutes;
but with practice, the time can be slowly extended. Benefits: This is one of the most highly regarded practices
in yoga. One who is proficient in the technique of shambhavi
mudra can transcend the mind, the intellect, and the ego,
entering the psychic and spiritual realms of consciousness. It is a powerful technique for awakening the ajna chakra, the
seat of union between the lower and higher consciousness. This mudra brings calmness of mind and removes tension
and anger. It also strengthens the eye muscles. (3) Akashi mudra (Consciousness of inner space)
Sit in a meditation pose and fold the tongue back against
the palate, as in khechari mudra (See Chapter IV p. 101). Prac
tice ujjayi pranayama and shambhavi mudra. With the head
tilted backward somewhat, but not to the fullest extent,
breathe slowly and deeply. At first, ujjayi pranayama in this
position may irritate the throat, but with practice it will
become more comfortable. Duration: Maintain the final position for as long as possi
ble. If it is difficult for more than a short time, stop practic
ing ujjayi pranayama, khechari mudra, and shambhavi
mudra; rest for a short time, then repeat. 99
Concentration: On the ajna chakra. Precautions: As with all mudras, it must be learned
gradually under expert guidance. Benefits: When this mudra is perfected, the student goes into
a kind of trance. This is not a trance in the Western sense
but in the yogic sense, one in which the student achieves a
state of heightened consciousness. Calmness and tranquility
of mind result, and the benefits of ujjayi pranayama, sham-
bhavi mudra, and khechari mudra are duplicated. (4) Bhujangani mudra (Snake breathing)
Sit in a meditation pose, relaxing the whole body. In this
mudra, the student must try to 'drink' air through the mouth
into the stomach (not the lungs), as if


 eruptions all over the body, dysentery and
vomiting, etc, Shri Sanchetiji assured him that all the posions of the
Western medicine are being uprotted. And indeed when the
impurities got discharged he was free from all ailment. He broke
his fast on the 15th day and after a couple of months he was
restored to normal health and vigour. Asthma and Cough : Shri Niranjan Dev Jain (Former Tera
follower Sadhu Nathmalji Charbhuja), jainendra Gurukul, Panch
Kula (Hariana) manages the kithen in the ashram. He narrated on
29-11-1976 how he was relived of the suffering:
"I iJm sixty now. In 1962 I was down with asthma and cough. My o}nplaint was so acute that others sleeping in the vicinity could
hardly have a wink_ Everyday about 200 gm phlegm was thrown
out. Cough would result in chest pain and nights would bring further
aggravation. Allopa~hy and Ayurveda were of no avail to me. 213 214 : AUTO-URINE THERAPY
In Bihar, 1 yielded to Shri Chaturbhai Patel•s persuasion and
accepted auto-urine therapy. People had given me up as living on
borrowed time. I started intake of urine four or five times daily. I did
not use it in massage nor did I fast. Of course oils, chillies and sour
things 1 avoided. I took some sugar and rice with milk. In the first
month 1 could register almost one-third pro~ess in the direction of
recovery. This strengthened my courage and. faith. By the end of
another couple of months I was fully healthy and normal. Now the
body is so strong that it can never remind anyone of the miserable
days of old terrible sufferings. For the last 13 years I take urine
twice· before bedtime which moves bowels and I have motion:; in
the morning without any difficulty... Hereditary Complaint of Asthma : I happened to meet Shri
Chhaganbhai solanki at Gramodyog Mandir, Pendak,. Rajko~ on
17-2-1977. He works in the leather workshop, there for the last
several years. He is 60. He incidentally disclosed to me that he had
been suffering from hereditary asthma from his boyhood. During
' winter his complaint would take severe turn. He was a chain-smoker
and even ate tobacco. Some ten years ago at my instance he gave up tobacco and
started taking his urine daily twiice or thrice. Within six or seven
months his asthma took his leave. CHAPTER Ill'
CANCER OF TttE UTERUS
Kaviraj Ramswarup Kaushik reports:
Mrs. Surjit Kaur of longodeva (Jeera, Dist. Ferozpur, Punjab), 33
years of age, was given up as · hopeless case of cancer by the
ludhiana physicians. Then she, accompanying her father, came to
me on 3-3-1974. After examining her thoroughly, I told her, •If you
undergo the treatment with faith and patience you will be all CANCER OF THE UTERUS : 215
right.• I put her on fruit-juice, prescribed auto-urine drinking daily
thri~e and urine massage for an hour every day. She was restored to
full,, health within three months• treatment. In the Jeera region the lady doctors had planted loops in several
women ·under the family planning campaingn. Several of them
complained of discharge from their uterus. This resulted in several
cases into cancer of the uterus while some also developed tumours. They were experiencing paid; movements became restricted; there
was foul stench from inside. I got their loops removed. They were
adminstered their own urine by changing its.colour. The douche
was also given with.the same. This continued for a month. Four
cases were completely successful. The discharge also stopped. Cancer of the Liver : Mrs. Champa Devi is a widow of Jeera. She
is 57. She came to me on 11-5-1974, suffering from tumour of the
liver,· diabetes and blood pressure. A thorough check-up-revealed
that her liver was assailed by cancer. She had undergone treatment
at the Rajendra Hospital, Patiala for five months. She was dischaged
by the doctors as a case beyond medical cure. She was relieved of
all her complaints after a couple of months of regular auto-urine
treatment. Her eyes that were y~llowish and swollen due to the
disease. came to their normal state by washing with urine. She is
now completely cured. Cancer.of the Vagina: Mrs. Mayadevi is wife of lala Tirtha
Ram, aged 35. Tirth Ram has opened a big hospital in Moga
(Punjab). It was inaugurated by Sathya Sai Baba. Mayadevi was having pain in the abdomen. Doctors ascribed it
to complications in her rnenstruation. Treatment by them only
aggravated her condition. On taking an X-ray print it was found that
her vagina was infected. When she was operated upon at the
Mission Hospital a.t ludhiana it was found that she had cancer of
the vagina and her life was in danger. She was therefor brought back
to her own hospital. · ·
I examined the patient and. knowing the case history started 'I
I
I
I
I '. CHAPTER V
DISEASES OF THE INTESTINE
1. Sluggish Intestine : Shri Bhojraj Sancheti stays in Momasar
(Dist. Churu, Rajasthan). He is 58. For· the last 15 years the meals in
his home have been cooked bland -with~! )t chillies, ·spices and
beverages like tea and coffee have been given up. He has been
doing social service and welfare work for the last decade. Hundreds
of patients have been benefited by his nature cure treatment and
urine therapy based on his own experience and have been relieved
of their complaints and are leading healthy and useful lives. He
narrated his findings of the urine therapy on January 11, 1977, as
follows:
11At the age of 47 my digestive system became weak and the
intestine almost stopped working. Any amount of the customary
treatment would not bring any relief. In these days of desperation· my
attention turned to yoga. Yogic practices gave me much relief and
so my faith in them grew stronger. Resolved to effect complete cure, I submitted myself to the
treatment of Dr. Ravindra Chaudhary of Ranipabia, Dist. Pu.rnea
(Bihar) and thus 1 was initiated in the nature cure therapy. By the
almost three-and-a-half-month treatment I derived rnany benefits ·but
could not be said to have restored completely to health. This was the
period when 1 had the' opportunity to make a regular study of nature
cure. ·In 1970, 1 had occasion to visit Bombay. There by the Jain monks
and other 1 was introduced to the urine therapy and developed a
desire to apply it in my own case. On returning to clacutta I read
twice the book Arogyaka amuly Sadhan -Swamutra (The Priceless
Panacea for Health -Auto-urine) and that led to a firm faith in this
therapy and I resolved to bring it into practice. I was then a victim
of influenza and it was raging. About four-five days1 auto-urine
218 DISEASES OF IODNEYS : 219
treatment drove away the fever. When I returned to Momasar I was
caught by typhoid.Which was driven by 21-day auto-urine regime. · ·
..'1; :S~.. The experience Lgather~. during these days of suffering formed
the basis of my application. This invaluable and simple remedy in
hundreds of cases of various aHments which invariably resulted in
complete cure and restoration of health and had I kept a record of
these cases it would have run into useful and welcome book of
reference to the.public. I can vouchsafe on my experience of
hundreds of cases that during their treatment there neverwas any
untoward effect or harmful reaction as a result of this treatment. All other medication, both indigenous and foreign has been
banished from my home and ·members of my family are invariable
profited bythis therapy.1
~
CHAPTER VI
DISEASES OF KIDNEYS
1. Diabetes and Heart Diseases : Shri Ghanshyam Keshav Vyas,
65, is former teacher in the prestigious educational institution
Shai"da Mandir. Medical examination revealed that he had blood
sugar, blood pressure; enlarged heart which had affected his
kindneys and the lungs and limbs had swellings. He had recourse to
insulin injections, DejoxYn. lactix, and multi-vitamin tablets, but to
no avail. Ultimately at the instance of his old friend Shri· Chandubhai Dave
he ·adopted auto-urine


uron	when	the
time	comes	for	the	old	one	to	perish. No	physical	process	for	this	has	been
identified,	so	perhaps	memory	actually	persists	on	a	nonphysical	level. Neurologists	would	defend	to	the	hilt	the	opposite	idea,	that	mind	arises	only
in	the	brain,	using	CAT	scans	and	MRI	imaging	to	prove	the	point. But	those
images	are	only	maps. They	show	the	terrain	of	the	brain	as	an	idea	or
emotion	crosses	it;	they	don’t	prove	that	the	brain
is
	the	mind,	any	more	than
a	footprint	in	the	sand	is	the	same	as	a	foot. Imagine	that	you	could	map	every
vibration	in	the	tiny	nerve	endings	that	line	the	inner	ear. When	graphed	on	a
chart,	there	would	be	an	extremely	complicated	pattern	for	every	word	and
sentence	the	ear	receives,	but	that	pattern	is	only	a	map	of	a	word,	not	the
territory	itself. A	powerful	sentence	like	“I	love	you”	is	more	than	the	map	of
its	vibrations,
since
	even	the	most	perfect	map	cannot	contain	love’s	power,
meaning,	significance,	and	overall	intent. Memory	seems	to	be	a	field	effect. For	you	to	think	the	word	“rhinoceros”
and	see	a	mental	image	of	that	animal,	millions	of	brain	cells	have	to	act
simultaneously. (We	will	leave	aside	the	more	difficult	question	of	why	you
picked	“rhinoceros”	out	of	all	the	words	you	could	have	chosen,	since	any
word	choice	can	be	based	on	reason,	emotion,	nonsense,	or	private
associations	in	memory. A	computer	can	be	taught	to	select	any	given	word,
but	it	has	no	special	reason	to	do	so—you	do. ) The	neurons	involved	in
choosing	the	word	“rhinoceros”	don’t	run	through	the	alphabet	until	they	get
to	“R”;	they	don’t	sound	out	one	syllable	at	a	time,	nor	do	they	leaf	through	azoological	photo	archive	to	match	the	right	word	to	the	right	image. Instead,
the	correct	brain	activity	arises	simultaneously. The	brain	is	acting	like	a	field,
coordinating	different	events	at	the	same	time,	except	that	we	know	the	brain
isn’t	literally	a	field. It’s	an	object	made	of	seemingly	lifeless	chemicals. A	compass	needle	moves	because	it’s	responding	to	the	Earth’s	magnetic
field. What	if	the	same	thing	is	true	for	brain	activity. What	if	the	mind	field
is	sending	signals,	and	billions	of	brain	cells	arrange	patterns	in	response	to
what	the	field	is	saying. A	team	of	innovative	scientists	has	proposed	exactly
that. Section summary:

Please summarize this 6-page long passage in a concise manner while avoiding repetition of any key points mentioned earlier. Summary should be approximately around one-third to half-a-paragraph length. **Correct Summary:**

You cannot simply say that karma is both flexible and inflexibile at once because it's paradoxical without solving for control over after-life choices are connected through consciousness but not seen by us as we don't have enough self-knowledge yet. Instead, you can choose between various possibilities based on your experiences. Tibetan Buddhism emphasizes continuity during reincarnation where an individual recognizes familiar objects from previous lives. ''

(Stop here)
Note - Please provide feedback if needed.<|eot_id|><|begin_of_text|>
Q: What is the paradoxical nature of Karma?,
A: Karma is said to be both flexible and inflexible at the same time, which is a paradox that cannot be solved without understanding the nature of consciousness.
Q: What is the concept of the zero point in the context of the text?,
A: The zero point refers to the idea that the universe is not empty, but rather a seething mass of energy and information.
Q: What is the purpose of the rituals and practices mentioned in the text?,
A: The rituals and practices mentioned in the text are not meant to get a person to a nice heaven or a better next life, but rather to make freedom of choice a reality and allow the person to shape their karma.
Q: What is the significance of the experiment conducted by Helmut Schmidt and his team?,
A: The experiment conducted by Schmidt and his team demonstrated that the observer effect is real and that the act of observation can alter the outcome of a quantum event.
Q: What is the implication of the concept of the zero point on the concept of the afterlife?,
A: The concept of the zero point implies that the afterlife is not a physical realm but rather a field of energy and information, which is the source of all creation and sustains the cycle of reincarnation.<|eot_id|><|begin_of_text|>Henry	Stapp,	a	theoretical	physicist	from	Berkeley;	Jeffrey	Schwartz,	a
neuropsychiatrist	at	UCLA;	and	Mario	Beauregard,	a	psychologist	from	the
University	of	Montreal,	have	crossed	disciplines	to	formulate	a	workable
theory	of	“quantum	mind”	that	may	revolutionize	how	mind	and	brain	relate
to	each	other. Central	to	their	theory	is	“neuroplasticity,”	the	notion	that	brain
cells	are	open	to	change,	flexibly	responding	to	will	and	intention. They	acknowledge,	to	begin	with,	the	usual	scientific	explanation	that
“the	mind	is	what	the	brain	does,”	but	there	are	many	flaws	in	such	an
explanation,	as	we	have	seen. They	propose,	therefore,	that	exactly	the
opposite	is	true. Mind	is	the	controller	of	the	brain. In
their
	view,	the	mind	is
like	an	electron	cloud	surrounding	the	nucleus	of	an	atom. Until	an	observer
appears,	electrons	have	no	physical	identity	in	the	world;	there	is	only	the
amorphous	cloud. In	the	same	way,	imagine	that	there	is	a	cloud	of
possibilities	open	to	the	brain	at	every	moment	(consisting	of	words,
memories,	ideas,	and	images	it	could	choose	from). When	the	mind	gives	a
signal,	one	of	these	possibilities	coalesces	from	the	cloud	and	becomes	a
thought	in	the	brain,	just	as	an	energy	wave	collapses	into	an	electron. Like
the	quantum	field	generating	real	particles	from	virtual	ones,	the	mind
generates	real	brain	activity	from	virtual	activity. What	makes	this	reversal	important	is	that	it	fits	the	facts. Neurologists
have	verified	that	a	mere	intention	or	purposeful	act	of	will	alters	the	brain. Stroke	victims,	for	example,	can	force	themselves,	with	the	aid	of	a	therapist,
to	use	only	their	right	hand	if	paralysis	has	occurred	on	that	side	of	the	body. Willing	themselves	day	after	day	to	favor	the	affected	part,	they	can	gradually
cause	the	damaged	sites	in	the	brain	to	heal. Similar	results	have	been	found
with	aging. Older	people	who	have	begun	to	show	signs	of	senile	dementia
such	as	memory	loss	can	slow	down	and	even	reverse	their	symptoms	by
exercising	their	brains	(one	software	manufacturer	has	even	brought	out	a
“brain	gym,”	a	program	that	looks	like	a	video	game	but	in	fact	consists	of
exercises	that	strengthen	specific	areas	of	the	brain). Children	born	with
cerebral	palsy	have	recently	regained	use	of	their	paralyzed	limbs	through
similar	therapies	in	which	the	unaffected	arm,	for	example,	was	kept	in	a
sling,	forcing	the	child	to	use	the	paralyzed	arm;	in	time,	the	brain	healed
itself. It	showed	neuroplasticity.Putting	mind	before	brain	may	have	many	far-reaching	consequences	in
medical	therapies. For	example,	patients	suffering	from	obsessive-compulsive
disorder	(OCD)	are	routinely	treated	with	psychotropic	drugs	like	Prozac. Symptoms	improve,	and	physical	evidence	for	that	can	be	found	through
brain	scans;	the	parts	of	the	brain	that	malfunction	in	OCD	start	to	become
more	normal	on	the	drug. But
	obsessive-compulsive


 resembles you in
your individuality and beauty. [Pause]
Then I’d like you to picture yourself as a seed. And I’m going to plant
you in nice warm earth about an inch below the surface. You’ll feel the
moisture and the sun warming you. I want you to grow and bloom. Break
out of that seed and observe yourself breaking forth, and growing, and
blooming. Watch the process happen. [Long pause]
When you have bloomed and become that beautiful flower, find a place
inside you to store it. Make it a part of you. Then I’d like you to follow me along the path again. Ahead of you,
you’ll see an enormous rainbow-colored balloon, with a gondola or basket
hanging from it. I want you to climb into the basket and release the balloon. There’ s nothing to fear, it’s very safe. It’ll float upwards through the clouds,
past the birds, all sounds relaxing you, all sounds bringing peace. [Pause]
And as you move higher, you will eventually achieve an astronaut’ s
view of the earth. What a feeling of peace that brings! What can make it
even more peaceful is to find the pad and pencil that are in the basket, and
write down on the pad those conflicts or problems that exist in your life. [Pause]
Then take that paper, crumple it, and leave it in orbit. Cast it behind
you. Feel the dif ference in how light you feel and how easily you float on
with those problems left behind. Take a moment now to just float onward,
totally at peace, totally free of concerns, weightless. [Long pause]
Then, when you’ve completed that, you may follow my voice again,
and come back down, further down, descending, slowly, back to the place
we started. Be careful climbing out, because you’re very relaxed. I’d like
you to lie there now, in a meadow next to the path. And just take a moment
to fill your body with love. Open every cell and fill it with love. [Pause]
Now step out of yourself for a minute, and look back at yourself. Give
yourself the love and af fection you deserve. And then step back into your
body. And listen to it. Go through your body and listen. Listen to each
organ. What is it telling you? What music does it make? Are you in
harmony? For those parts that aren’ t, give them a little extra love. Open
every cell to love. See if you can create a healing harmony within yourself.If there are any areas of pain, any areas you usually don’ t pay attention to, I
would give them an extra measure of love. [Long pause]
Now just let your awareness of your body begin to increase, perhaps
noting the position you’re in, the pressure the chair or floor makes against
your body, the motion of your chest and abdomen as you breathe deeply in
and out. And let this awareness begin to increase as you get closer to
coming back to the room. Perhaps wiggling your fingers and toes will help. [Pause]
Then, count seven to ten breaths after my voice stops, each breath
making you feel lighter, more awake, more alert, yet still at peace, until
after the last breath you open your eyes and return to the room when you’re
ready, beginning now. Visualization 2
Take a comfortable position. And let the conflict flow out, and just
unwind, relax, and think peace. As you breathe deeply, let peace come in. Perhaps visualize a beautiful rainbow, and relax with each breath. Once
again settle down, and let that wave of color move down through your body,
bringing peace. Let your eyes close if you want to. Take a moment to just
fill your body with love and peace. Don’ t overlook any places, particularly
those parts and or gans that may be involved with disease. [Long pause]
When you’re done, take yourself to your corner of the universe, that
lovely, vivid place with its aromas and textures, familiar sounds and colors. And just be there, taking a moment to allow the warmth of the sun and the
energy of the earth to heal you, to be safe and at peace here. Just settle
down, down. You might picture yourself being on an elevator, descending
floor by floor, feeling more relaxed with each floor. [Long pause]
Then I’d like you to build that bridge again, to my part of the universe,
where all the people you know and deal with live. And I’d like you to invite
them across that bridge, those you love and those you have conflict with,
those you don’ t like. Bring them all together in your little corner of the
universe. And bring them together, to touch, to hug, to share, and say, “I
love you.” And watch the transformation. [Long pause]
Then you may leave them, and follow my voice. I’m going to bring you
across the bridge again, along the path. Once again you may experience the
familiar crunch of the gravel, the path, the sunlight, the meadows. [Pause]Once again you come to the steps down, feeling more relaxed with each
step. [Pause]
You’ll notice in front of you a great big sign, with paint cans and
brushes around. The sign is empty. On the other side of the path is a big
stone with a chisel and hammer. And I’d like you to leave a message for
those who come after you, either by painting or by carving. Take a moment
now to leave a message. [Long pause]
Then, when you’re done, come down the path again. Ahead of you,
you’ll see an enormous old house, which I’d like you to enter. There’ll be a
lovely recliner sitting in the living room, and I’d like you to lie down on it. See yourself resting there and relaxing. You’re becoming deeply relaxed
and very much at peace. [Pause]
In that relaxed state I’d like you to walk through the house, because in
one of the rooms there will be a chest, and within it is a meaningful
message or gift for you. So explore the house, and find that message or gift. Find the message that lies within your chest. [Long pause]
When you’re done, I’d like you to go back to the living room and lie
down on that recliner again. I’d like you to take a moment to explore all the
rooms and hallways of your mind and brain. You’ll find one room that has
to do with the immune system, another having to do with circulation,
another with emotion, and so on. [Pause]
If you’re dealing with disease, I’d like you to go into the rooms having
to do with the immune system and circulation, and turn the right valves, and
push the right switches, so that any disease in your body is healed, and the
nourishment for that disease is turned of f. Take a moment now to utilize
those controls and help your body get well. [Long pause]
Once that’ s completed—you may stay if you’re still working on it—
come back out on the path again. As you walk out along the path, I’d like
you to see, way of f in the distance, a very bright white-yellow light. Coming out of that light, you’ll see someone. As this person gets closer,
you’ll begin to see his or her appearance. Finally, this person will be close
enough for you to ask his or her name, and know that this person is a guide
for you, someone you can always call on to help you. [Pause]
Sit down for a moment with your guide along the path, and question
your guide about some conflict or problem, and see what advice you get. [Long pause]When you have completed that conference, I’d like you to follow me
again—but if you haven’ t completed it, stay and talk. Know that you can
always call upon your guide at any time. If you are done, you may follow
me over a hill. On the other side you will see a beach. There are several
gulls floating by, beautiful ocean waves, the warm sand. I want to teach you
how to fly, just as the gulls do. But first I want you to think of your
problems and give them a weight, and put them on your back. And then
take three steps forward, and with the third step rise up and fly. One…
two…three and up. Feel what it’ s like to fly with that weight. Then turn and
let the weight fall of f. And feel the dif ference when you let go of your
problems. And just enjoy flying now. Let the sun warm you, and let the
breeze hold you up and heal you. There’ s no ef fort. From now on, at any
time of stress you can recall flying and feeling free, casting your problems
away, dropping them of f your shoulders. Just round of f your shoulders and
let them slide. [Long pause]
And then allow yourself to come down on the sand again. Stretch out,
and allow the ener gy of the earth and the warmth of the sunlight to heal
you. Once again take a moment to open your body to love. Open each cell,
each or gan. Create your own music, your own harmony, your own beauty. Give all parts of yourself the love and af fection they deserve. [Long pause]
When you have completed that, just let your body awareness begin to
return—the chair, your position


 for yourself. Contributing to your daily intake of fruits and vegetables
Many health professionals and institutions tell you how many
fruits and vegetables to eat in a day, and as long as their
minimum numbers are no less than ﬁve, they aren’t exactly
wrong. It’s just that, in their desire to get you to eat more than
the average two vegetable servings most Americans eat in a
day, they’re happy just to see you increase that less-than-
adequate number. What they may not explain is that if you eat at least seven and
closer to ten servings of fruits and vegetables daily, the
antioxidants and other phytonutrients will help reduce the risk
of modern diseases such as cancer, obesity, heart disease,
stroke, arthritis, asthma, macular degeneration, and
diverticulosis. But man, that’s a lot of fresh fruits and
vegetables! That’s where juicing comes in. A juice may consist of one apple,
two carrots, one beet, a piece of ginger, and half a lemon. It
delivers a full serving of fruit, along with three servings of
vegetables — all in one drink. You can dramatically increase your daily intake of fruits
and vegetables by drinking smoothies and juices. Pr eventing modern diseasesPeople don’t get scurvy nowadays, but from as far back as
Hippocrates in 400 b.c., it was a dreaded and fatal disease. Long-
voyage sailors ate fresh lemons or limes to prevent scurvy
(hence the name “limeys” for Englishmen). Jacques Cartier, a
16th-century North American explorer relied on native people,
who gave them a boiled tea of juniper needles and saved his
small group that had tried to overwinter in what is now Nova
Scotia. The action of preventing scurvy was called antiscorbic
long before anyone knew about vitamin C.
The discovery of vitamin C around the turn of the 20th century
was a major turning point for food research. We’ve come a long
way in understanding just what’s in the foods we eat. Today we
know the science behind what the ancients knew from
experience: that fruits and vegetables actually prevent diseases. We also know that we need to eat a wide variety of them to
ensure that we get the full spectrum of the nutrients they have
to offer. Here’s a quick highlight (see Chapter 6 for more):
 Fiber: Only fruits and vegetables contain soluble and
insoluble ﬁber, which controls blood glucose levels to
prevent diabetes, reduces cholesterol and the risk of heart
disease, and reduces the risk of diverticulosis and a
variety of cancers. Antioxidants: Found mostly in fruits and vegetables (along
with red wine and dark chocolate), antioxidants reduce the
risk of coronary heart disease, reduce cell damage, and
prevent aging and cancers. Phytonutrients: The phytonutrients in fruits and
vegetables prevent a variety of human ailments, including
arthritis, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Vitamins and minerals: More than any other foods, fruits
and vegetables are high in these essential nutrients that
build and repair cells and tissue, protect against colds andﬂu, and keep the organs and glands functioning at their
best. Phytonutrients and trace elements are like keys opening
the door for vitamins and minerals to be taken up by the
body. They’re missing from manufactured supplements, so
the body misses out on all the beneﬁts from the vitamin or
mineral you thought it was getting. (See the nearby sidebar,
“The synergistic value of complete nutrients” for more.) The synergistic value of complete nutrients
Juices and smoothies are made from whole fruits and veget ables, so they
contain all the particular nutrients found in those foods  — including other
vitamins and minerals, enzymes, trace elements, phytonut rients, and even
some active components that haven’t yet been discovered. Commercial
supplements isolate one or two major nutrients like vitamin B or calcium,
and they fail to include all the more subtle phytonut rients that make it
easy for the body to assimilate and use the larger ones. Foods are synergistic. The interaction of the nutrients found in fruits and
vegetables, as well as all whole natural foods, has a sum total beneﬁt  that
outweighs the beneﬁt of each food’s individual  nutrients. That ’s why you
can’t isolate just one vitamin or mineral in a suppl ement for optimum
nutrition. Eating the whole fruit or veget able is synergistic, meani ng that
those foods work together to provide the optimal level of vitamins and
other nutrients for optimum health. Quite simply, natural whole foods and the nutrients found in them  are best
adapted to the human digestive system. The body  know s what to use and
what to discard. Only by consuming the whole fruit or veget able can yoube sure that the vitamins and minerals you know  are in those foods  will be
taken up by the bloodstream and used by your cells. As the American Cancer Society says, “Available scientiﬁc evidence does
not support claims that taking phytochem ical suppl ements is as helpful as
consuming the fruits, vegetables, beans, and grains from which they are
taken.”
Raw, live enzymes and phytonutrients
According to the American Cancer Society, phytochem icals are “a wide
variety of compounds produced by plants.” They  include nutrients that
are called antioxidants, ﬂavones, isoﬂav ones, catechi ns, anthocy anins,
isothiocyanates, carotenoids, allyl sulﬁdes, and polyphenol s, among
others. Only a small number have actually been discovered, nam ed, and studied,
and that’s the main reason why nutritionists urge us to eat a wide variety
of whole natural foods, including fruits and veget ables. In Chapt er 6, you
ﬁnd a list of some of the most widely studied phytonut rients and an
explanation of what they do for the body. Although they have many beneﬁts, perhaps  the most important funct ion of
phytochemicals is that some of them  help prevent the formation of
carcinogens (substances that cause cancer); they block the action of
carcinogens or they act on cells to suppr ess cancer  developm ent. Many
experts including the American Cancer  Society sugges t that peopl e can
reduce their risk of cancer signiﬁcant ly by eating more fruits, veget ables,
and other foods from plants that cont ain phytochem icals. One of the main reasons why raw food proponents  claim the advantages
of fresh juice and natural, uncooked whole foods  is that they cont ain“live” active enzymes. Enzymes are minute com ponent s of plant foods
that work with vitamins and other nutrients to facilitate digestion through
chemical reactions in the body. Heating by cook ing and pasteurization
kills enzymes, so by drinking raw fresh juice, the enzy mes in the juice
actually save the body from using its own enzy mes. This allows ener gy to
be shifted from digestion to other body  funct ions like cell repai r,
protection, and rejuvenation. Building a str onger immune system
Immunology (the study of the immune system) is a growing and
dynamic ﬁeld. The immune system includes the lymphatic
organs (thymus, spleen, tonsils, and lymph nodes) and white
blood cells, along with other specialized cells. Its prime function
is to protect the body against infection and diseases. Factors that cripple the immune system are stress, free radicals,
nutritional deﬁciencies, sugar, obesity, fats in the blood, and
alcohol. So it makes sense to eliminate those factors from your
life. You’ve taken the ﬁrst step in building a stronger immune system
by becoming interested in your health. Optimal immune
function requires a healthy diet (including juices), exercise, and
a positive mental attitude. Impr oving memory
Memory and cognition problems can be a result of many things,
including poor nutrition and amino acid balance, allergies,
candidiasis (yeast infection), thyroid disorders, low blood sugar,
and poor circulation to the brain. However, a general decline in
mental performance is caused most often by free radical
damage. Juicing with fruits and vegetables that are high in
antioxidants (see Chapter 20) protects all the body’s cells,including the brain, from the ravishing effects of the unstable
oxidizing free radicals. Table 2-1 lists some brain-boosting nutrients that you can get in
juices. Incr easing energy
It’s incredible to think that the process of digestion, something
most of us never think about, can be so complex and take so
much energy. Digestion involves chewing and grinding food, as
well as chemical processes that require enzymes to release
small nutrients into your system to break food into smaller
molecules. Proteins, carbohydrates, and fats all require a
different set of enzymes to unlock their key components. And
the whole process takes energy. When you present your digestive system with pure raw fruit or
vegetable juice, there is no digestive process that has to takeplace because the nutrients in the water have already been
extracted from the carbohydrate and ﬁber. So you give your
digestive system a break and allow the energy that would have
gone into breaking down the food go to repairing and protecting
cells