Spring Into Better Health

April 23, 2018

As the weather begins to warm up and the days become longer, we may feel a shift in our body and mind. It’s very normal this time of year. It’s a time when our body wants to shed and eliminate things that may have been weighing itself down from the winter.

We yearn to feel lighter and refreshed in mind, body, and spirit!

As the seasons change, a cleanse could be very beneficial. Cleansing should occur at least once or twice a year. It’s suggested that as the seasons change, a good cleanse can better prepare us for the coming season. Just like the temperature, the foods we eat change throughout the year. Going from spring to summer, the body is preparing itself for some of the busiest months of the year.

Traditionally, cultures all around the world have practiced seasonal cleansing in different ways. Springtime is the time to give your liver some extra love too. The liver is how the body removes toxins. That is how the liver earns the spot of one of the hardest working organs!

The liver works with many other organs in our body to detox blood, produce bile and break down hormones. It acts as a storage facility for our vitamins and minerals. If the liver is not functioning properly, it affects many other areas of our body.

Spring Into Better Health #springcleanse #liverdetox #loveyourliver #springcleaning

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Some more important functions of the liver include removing old blood cells, helping the intestines process nutrients and chemical production for blood clotting. The liver is also responsible for the breakdown and metabolizing of alcohol and consumed medications, and the production of necessary proteins and cholesterol. When people hear ‘liver disease’, they typically think of alcoholism, but that is not the only cause of liver disease or failure.

Some other risk factors associated with liver disease include low potassium levels, drug use, exposure to certain chemicals, obesity, processed foods, viral infections, and autoimmune diseases.

If your liver is not performing at its best, you may experience gas, bloating or constipation. Other possible symptoms are heartburn, acid reflux, yellowish tint to skin and eyes, high blood pressure, difficulty losing weight, cognitive difficulties, dark urine, poor appetite, and chronic fatigue.

If you want to support your liver, there are certain foods you should focus on.

These foods include beets, carrots, tomatoes, grapefruit, spinach and citrus fruits. Cabbage, turmeric, walnuts and avocados are also beneficial. Apples, Brussels sprouts, garlic, dandelion root, leafy green vegetables. Also, broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, green tea, artichoke and olive oil pack many benefits too. Some examples for alternative grains are quinoa, millet and buckwheat.

There are several food programs, supplements and other programs available to cleanse your liver. It’s important to find the one that is best for you. Consult your doctor if you have any concerns or questions.

Below are some general tips that have worked for me:

Hydrate!
Eat clean, seasonal, and organic REAL food
Exercise regularly or incorporate some type of movement
Practice calming techniques like meditation and relaxation
Take a good quality probiotic
Get the proper amount of sleep
Avoid alcohol and tobacco products
Avoid processed foods and sugar

Adopting a healthier lifestyle or cleansing into the spring season may provide much more energy, improved digestion, healthier and brighter skin, better sleep, reduced stress, and better mental clarity and cognitive functioning; along with a boost to your immune system and more balanced blood sugar levels.

The spring season isn’t just a time for spring cleaning your closet. Especially relevant, it’s important to reflect on things that have been weighing you down or things that may be toxic. Consider different stressors in your life. They play a huge part in your health and body function.

In addition to a spring cleanse, I recommend considering products you may be using, people that are in your life, habits that may need some adjusting, and choices that may or may not be serving you well. Moving forward, listen to your “gut” and give some thought to where small changes could greatly impact your health and happiness.

There is no better time to Spring into Better Health!

XO,

KiM

To learn more about my Spring Seasonal Cleanse,

click below!

Spring Cleanse

Setting Intentions: 5 Tips to Create a Positive Change

May 4, 2017May 4, 2017

Setting intentions can have a powerful impact on our lives. As we begin a new month, we are given the opportunity for a new mindset, new results, a fresh start and new intentions.

Intentions are things that we plan to do or achieve. They help us create our own reality and guide us towards who we want to be and what we desire to do. Even though they are similar, intentions are different from goals. When you set a goal, a plan and destination is established. This usually creates a timeline, expectations and steps to achieve that goal. When setting intentions, it’s similar to a goal but you don’t have a plan or course of action. There isn’t pressure to achieve that destination. You’re creating an intention for what you want and leave the rest up to the universe. It’s about the journey, not about the destination.

Declare exactly what you want because the universe responds to clarity.

Setting Intentions: 5 Tips to Create a Positive Change #intentions #holistichealth #setintentions

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Intentions are a wonderful way to help you stay focused and committed to what matters. Using your intentions for motivation will help the most when you’re feeling down and unmotivated. As we grow and change, our intentions may do the same. There are several things to consider when creating intentions.

1. EVALUATE YOUR CURRENT SITUATION

As you evaluate your current situation, it’s important to settle into a place of non-judgement and unconditional love. Think about your life at this moment. Are you satisfied with your career and relationships? Think about how you may feel if things were different. Are you feeling a desire towards change in other areas of your life? Write down your thoughts about your health, happiness, relationships, spirituality, career and self love. Do you see areas where change or improvement may help?

2. be clear with what you want

As I mentioned before, the universe responds to clarity. Focus on setting intentions that are easy to understand. Avoid things that may be confusing, vague or have different meanings. For example, steer away from things like, “I want a more fulfilling life.” That can mean a lot of things. What does a fulfilling life mean to you? What does it look like? Practicing visualization techniques or creating a vision board may help bring clarity.

3. Practice gratitude

Gratitude is an amazing, incredible force. One that can expand our happiness, create better relationships and enhance our health. What are you grateful for? Are you practicing gratitude on a daily basis?

Finding meaning and joy in our own lives can help with great inner transformation. There are many ways to practice gratitude. When you wake up in the morning, write down three people that you will kindly reach out to that day. Before you go to bed, make a list of things you’re grateful for. Writing thank you cards and hand written notes to others is another way to express gratitude. Not only will these selfless acts inspire and warm others, it will contribute to your own health and happiness as well. Who knows, you may have some new discoveries and intentions along the way.

4. declare your intentions out loud

Whether you say them to a friend, your loved one or yourself, voicing your intentions out loud will help you fulfill them. Stretch your imagination and take note of your feelings during and after expression. As the words and ideas come together, an amazing energy will be formed.

5. leave the details up to the universe

Have you ever wanted something before and found yourself disappointed or unhappy because it didn’t happen or you didn’t get it? Only to later discover that something more amazing crossed your path. This has happened to me many times and I’ve found the experience to be pretty incredible.

Sometimes we put so much energy and control into things that we want to go a certain way. Things that may not be the best thing for us or that may keep us from experiencing something even greater. When you set your intentions, have faith that incredible things will happen. If you’re feeling a lack of spirituality and faith, nurture this area. It will help bring positive energy and confidence that things will work out as they are supposed to. The universe has an incredible way of making things happen. Especially when you declare good intentions.

do you set intentions in your own life? i welcome any comments or feedback below. writing down intentions can be very powerful. for a copy of my free “intentions sheet,” click on the link below.

Free Sheet

“Intentions compressed into words enfold magical power.”
~Deepak Chopra

XOXO,

KIM

Healthy Homemade Bone Broth Recipe

April 27, 2017

If you’re not making Bone Broth at home, I highly encourage you to try this simple and healthy Homemade Bone Broth Recipe. Not only is it delicious, but it provides many benefits. Bone Broth contains a high collagen content and is an excellent source of minerals.

When I first started learning about gut health, I was introduced to bone broth. I was a little intimidated when I thought about making it but gave it a try anyways. Since that day, it’s become a staple in my home and in my nutrition plan. It stores well in the fridge (up to 7 days) and can freeze for up to 6 months. Bone Broth is great to have in your freeze when an illness hits your home.

some of the many benefits of Bone Broth:

Improves gut health and digestive issues
Supports joint health
Helps to overcome food intolerances and allergies
Boosts detoxification
Improves the appearance of healthy skin, hair and nails
Supports brain and immune health
Acts as a natural anti-anger
Helps to improve sleep
Reduces Inflammation
Improves mood

Healthy Homemade Bone Broth #guthealth #immunebooster #crockpot

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where to find stock and broth bones:

Your local butcher (pasture raised and grass fed, if possible)
Your local farmers market (pasture raised and grass fed, if possible)
Leftover from a meal you roasted

bone broth recipe (slow cooker)

ingredients:

2-4 lbs of bones (bison, beef, turkey or chicken carcass, etc)

4 stalks of organic celery, roughly chopped

4 organic carrots, roughly chopped

1 large organic onion, cut in half and quartered

4 cloves of garlic, peeled and chopped

2 Bay Leaves

Handful of fresh herbs (I like to add parsley)

4 Tablespoons Apple Cider Vinegar (helps draw in more of the goodies from the bones)

1 teaspoon whole peppercorns

Dash of salt (or more if desired)

Filtered water

*Optional: Chicken Feet

directions:

If you’re using bones with marrow (like bison or beef), roast your bones in a dish or on a baking sheet at 375 degrees for 45-60 minutes. Turn your bones half way through the cooking time. Roasting these hearty bones is important! This process delivers a beautiful color and TONS of flavor.

Place your bones of choice into your slow cooker. I love to use the slow cooker, but you can also use a pot on your stove or an Insta Pot.

Add in your veggies, garlic, bay leaves, salt and pepper (if desired) and apple cider vinegar. Fill your crock pot with filtered water, leaving about an inch or two of room at the top. Some of the liquid will slowly cook down, so don’t worry about it boiling over.

Set your slow cooker to Low Heat and cook for 24-48 hours. I like to cook mine for a long time. Not only does it enhance the flavor but the kitchen smells incredible too! Don’t worry about overcooking.

During the last 30 minutes, add your fresh herbs. Some people like to add the garlic here, but I like mine during the entire cooking process. Discover what works for you and your taste buds.

Once the broth is done to your liking, turn off the heat and allow it to slightly cool. Carefully remove and discard bones and any additional ingredients with a slotted spoon.

Using a colander, strain the rest of your broth into a bowl. Scoop out any additional pieces that still may be present.

Ladle your broth into jars and refrigerate promptly. I like to use Mason Jars when storing in the fridge. If you’re freezing your broth, do so now. Depending on how often you plan to enjoy it, you may want to freeze half of the batch and refrigerate the rest. Personally, I keep it in the fridge because I enjoy it everyday.

Note: Once the broth has cooled, you will see the fat rise to the top. This is a healthy fat. If you do not desire to consume it, wait until the broth has chilled in the fridge. It will form into a chilled layer and can easily be removed.

If you’re broth turns into a gel form, it’s a good thing. ?

Bone broth is just as delicious when served alone as it is with other ingredients. This broth makes an incredible soup. Lately I’ve been a fan of bison broth but I enjoy many others. The variety of color depends on how long you’ve cooked it and what kinds of bones you’re using. I get my local bison bones from Gunpowder Bison & Trading Company

Have you made bone broth yourself? What kind of bones do you enjoy the most? I welcome your comment and feedback below.

XOXO,

Kim

How to Detox Negative People From Your Life

March 27, 2017April 4, 2017

Negative people weigh us down and keep us from achieving greatness, better health and much happiness.

Have you ever felt overwhelmed because of the negativity or negative people that surround you?

In this world, there are negative people that are hard to avoid. These people drain your soul, and leave you feeling like they are constantly sucking the life out of you. I call these people Qi suckers because they can suck you dry and deplete your vital life force, otherwise known as Qi.

I WANT TO ASK YOU A FEW QUESTIONS…

Are you feeling supported by the people in your life?
Do the people in your life add value to your existence?
Looking at the people in your life, do you feel they love you unconditionally?
Are you accepted for who you are?

If you answered no to any of the above, then you may be surrounded by toxic or negative people.

There are many things in life that are toxic, including food and chemicals; however, there are also negative people who are just as toxic. You must be clear on who lifts you up and who hurts you. Toxic people significantly impede our happiness and contribute to our high-stress levels. This leads to digestive issues, poor sleep, headaches and weight gain.

If you know you have negative people in your life, it may be best for your health to set clear boundaries for them so you can continue to thrive.

HERE’S HOW TO DO IT:

1. Take 5-15 minutes to write down three boundaries you want to set in your life.

2. Now, think of 5 people who are crossing them. There may be more, but I want to be realistic about what we can accomplish during this exercise.

3. How will you know when these boundaries are crossed? Often, you’ll feel uncomfortable when boundaries are broken, and you get that “gut feeling” that a particular person is not good for you.

4. When these boundaries are crossed, how will you handle it? You deserve to be happy and fulfilled from the people in your life. If there are people who are not contributing to your happiness, it may be time to let them go or lovingly detach. You do not need to remove this person entirely from your life, but you need to create a healthy distance.

For example, if you want to say no to a party, event or lunch where you know this person will be, you have to make a strong decision to put yourself first. Can you hold onto your sacred space if you attend or do you need to say no? Saying no to something that does not serve you may bring up feelings of guilt, but the more you say yes to your existence and happiness, the more freedom you’ll have when you say NO. In addiiton, the greater quality of life you’ll experience.

5. Bring in the Positivity! Bring in people and relationships who lift you up, encourage you and show positive support. When you have dreams, plans and goals, these are the people who encourage you to live that kick ass life that you deserve!

“Detachment means to remove one’s mind from all sorts of desires. As the mind is removed from desires, the energy that was being destroyed in running after these desires is saved, and it becomes a flame.” -Osho Quotes

If you’ve started your own healthy detox or plan to soon, please share below. Comments and feedback are always welcome. ?

XOXO~

Kim

Boost Your Immune System with Detox Baths

March 20, 2017April 4, 20172 Comments

Detox baths are a great way to cleanse the body, eliminate toxins and boost the immune system.

This time of the year, so many people are getting sick and feeling run down. Yes, the dreary and cold days can contribute to our mood and health, but so do the toxins that we’re holding onto and the ones that we are constantly exposed to.

Our lives are crazy busy, and most of us rush through the day without a thought to alleviating all the damage that is being done to our bodies: By what we eat, the air we breathe, and the stress inflicted upon us.

A detox bath can sweat out those toxins and alleviate their harmful impact. They will boost your immune system too!

Boost Your Immune System with Detox Baths #detox #immunesystem #health #wellness #winterwellness

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The process for a detox bath is really quite simple. Detoxers immerse themselves in a tub filled with very hot water and essential ingredients, some active and some soothing. As you soak, the toxins are pulled to the surface of the skin and then washed away.

The key to a successful detox bath is preparation. It is very important to properly hydrate before

you begin. The day before you plan to detox, increase your fluid intake (water) and avoid dehydrating ingredients, such as caffeine and alcohol. This will ensure that no damage occurs to your body as the impurities are drained from your body.

Detox baths require very hot water. As hot as your body can tolerate, but please don’t burn yourself. Warm water or reasonably hot water will just not work. It is essential that the body sweats during the detox process, and that won’t happen if the water is too cool.

To actively draw out toxins, detox baths should to contain at least one strong, active ingredient and several soothing ones. For example, harsh ingredients such as apple cider vinegar or hydrogen peroxide might be offset by essential oils. The ingredients you choose will determine the benefits to your body. Many recipes are available on the Internet. One of my favorites is listed below.

Most recipes call for a soaking of more than 20 minutes. You need to give those impurities time to float to the surface! I recommend a bath time of 40-60 minutes. The first 20 minutes gives your body time to remove toxins. The remaining 20 to 40 minutes allows time for your body to absorb the minerals in the water.

When you have completed the recommended stay in the water, gently wipe off your skin and drink water. Give your body time to recover from the strain of detoxification. That will enhance the benefits and enhance your well-being. Completing a detox bath will help you feel rejuvenated and healthy.

MY FAVORITE DETOX BATH:

ingredients

1 Cup Epsom Salt

1 Cup Baking Soda

10 Drops of Lavender Essential Oil

*Note: I also like to use Bentonite Clay (in place of the baking soda).

directions

Pour your ingredients into hot bath water.
Soak your body for at least 20 minutes (as much as you can, up to your neck).
Once you are done with your bath and have dried off, avoid eating for at least 20 minutes.
Drinks lots of water.

Note: Skin brushing before taking a bath or shower is very beneficial. Especially before a detox bath. If you’re pregnant or have any health concerns, please consult your doctor before performing a detox bath.

WHILE IT MAY BE TEMPTING TO QUICKLY DIP INTO A HOT TUB AND DRY OFF, THE LENGTH OF TIME SPENT IN THE TUB WILL DETERMINE THE SUCCESS OF YOUR DETOX.

If you have any questions about detoxing or a detox bath, please comment below. You’re welcome to message me as well. I enjoy detox baths all year, but they are especially beneficial during the harder, winter months.

Wishing you much health and happiness!