Ramadan is a special month for many of us. It revolves around the time; the biorhythm of nature. The Holy Month begins and ends depending on the phase of the moon and fasting happens from sunrise to sunset. Similarly, the Holistic Lifestyle encourages us to reconnect with time and the flow of nature.

Traditionally and spiritually this month is about moving away from overabundance to support our body, mind and soul through having the correct food, the right amount and at the appropriate time.

In order to achieve this, what we need, is our consciousness. When we are conscious about our actions and particularly the food that we put into our body, balance and harmony are easily within our reach!

Rather than adopting a mentality of overeating to compensate for the time spent fasting, spending this month to develop mindful eating habits and discovering other sources of energy is a wonderful practice that will only benefit us! This month is our chance to develop ourselves and blossom our relationship with God, with our loved ones and of course our own body, mind & soul.

Here are some Holistic tips to consider while fasting:

While fasting (before Iftar):

• Light exercises; partake in breathing outdoors (by the sea) right before Iftar. This will promote detoxification and help clear the mind.
• You can enjoy a short nap in the afternoon if necessary. However avoid switching your days and nights.
• Some Relaxing treatments can help cleanse the system as well as relax the body and mind. Ayurveda treatments during this time are best as they detox and nourish the body inside out.

Breaking your fast (during Iftar):

• Break your fast with 1 glass of warm water with slices of lemon and 1 or 3 soaked dates.
• Have a bowl of soup and then take a 15-30 minute break before continuing on with the meal. This will help you avoid overeating.
• Opt for fruits (papaya is perfect) as a snack an hour or so after Iftar. Have sweets in moderation, no need to deprive yourself but try limit to 1-2 times a week.
• If still hungry before bed, have a bowl of vegetable or fish broth, or a baked apple.

Preparing for next day of fasting (Suhour):

• Suhour: this meal is very important, just like breakfast! And it is best not to skip it! An ideal suhour would be porridge with 1 or 3 soaked dates, and a ripe banana.
• Hydrate: water is vital, but not as helpful as you may think when you drink a large amount at a time! Instead have your fluids (ideally water) spaced out throughout the evening by sipping gradually.
• Caffeine: this will drain you of your energy and make you more lethargic while fasting. Replace this with water, herbal teas, or even better a green juice!

Prepare for Ramadan with a Reflexology, Visceral Therapy & Oil Enema

Whether you are fasting or not, Ramadan is a time where everything slows down and you have more time to focus on you. It is the perfect month to nourish yourself with healthy meals, detoxify your body and rebalance your energy. So, where to begin?

Our Holistic programs are running as usual, however we have created a special protocol for you to enjoy the luxury of pampering yourself while detoxing. Cleaning out your system has never been more enjoyable!

This Ayurvedic experience begins with a reflexology, a foot massage that stimulate the organs and blood flow through the body. It is then followed by a visceral therapy, a speciality stomach massage to activate, release stagnation and tonify the organs.
You finish off with an oil enema which is a simple, pain free procedure to cleanse and remove any build-up in the colon.

The release of toxins will be activated through the massages and then removed from the body with the oil enema. Any stagnation in the body will be flushed out. It is the most powerful way to release physical blockages like constipation or bloating as well as emotional feelings of anxiety, fear, restlessness, hypersensitivity.

If you are the type to usually have symptoms such as dizziness, headaches, heart burn or fatigue during fasting, this could be a sign that toxins are being released and may need some support to leave the body. This protocol is the perfect way to encourage a healthy and enjoyable detoxification.

The key to glowing skin, healthy hair & feeling zen

Liver according to Traditional Chinese Medicine

Did you know that our Liver is the organ that is most affected by excess stress or emotions? According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Liver is the organ responsible for the processing of toxins and the smooth flow of emotions, Qi (energy) and blood.

• It detoxes your body from toxins & harmful substances
• The eyes are the sensory organ related to the Liver. If you have any eye issues, including blurry vision, red or dry eyes, itchy eyes, it may be a sign deep down that your Liver is not functioning smoothly.
• The tendons are the tissues associated with the Liver. TCM says that strength comes from the tendons, not muscles. Be like the cat that is strong, agile, and flexible, not the cow, which has huge muscles but little real strength.
• The taste that corresponds to and supports the Liver is sour. If you crave sour foods, that may be your Liver asking for an extra boost. Include high-quality vinegar and lemon in your diet.
• Anger is the emotion associated with the Liver. If you are often irritable, get angry easily, have trouble unwinding from the day’s activities, have trouble going with the flow and letting things go, this is connected with your Liver function. Experiencing these emotions excessively can contribute to unbalancing the function of your Liver.

Simple Tips for Everyday Liver Health:

• Stay calm and try to let go of any stressful situations. Try focusing on your breath to help relax.
• Take things easy and go slow; take a nice long walk in the park or do other gentle exercises to relax your mind, body, and spirit.
• Avoid alcohol! Because the Liver is responsible for metabolizing alcohol, drinking in moderation can go a long way towards preserving your Liver’s energy and giving it a break.
• Engage in gentle exercise, such as swimming or walking, instead of hard and fast exercises which overwork the tendons and whole body

Acupressure for Liver Health

Rub the acupressure point called “Taichong” (Liver 3) which stimulates a key point on the Liver channel. It may be sore, but this means you’re hitting all the right spots! You are unblocking your Liver Qi (energy). It’s located on top of your foot where the big toe bone meets the second toe bone (about an inch back from the skin between these toes). Using your thumb, press and massage this spot on both feet. Try to do this every day for a few minutes.

Liver Detoxing:

Getting a liver detox will release any stagnation in the liver and flush out toxins. This will relieve the liver from feeling overloaded and allow it to return to its natural healthy state and function. All patients see benefits from doing this process, reporting a increase in energy, better digestion, glowing skin, thicker hair, feeling less angry and an overall sense of happiness.

Applying time-proven ancient principles to bring you into your ideal weight

Are you trying to stick to rigid diets to lose weight? Or counting calories without enjoying your food? What we put into our body is important but HOW and WHEN we do so is key. If we eat with frustration and restriction, that is how our body will receive our food. Instead if we eat with love, on time and in a peaceful environment, we will open our body to optimal digestion and absorption. The Holistic Diet & Lifestyle approach is based on ancient knowledge that originates from Ayurveda and Chinese medicine. We blend this wisdom with a modern day understanding to optimize your health and naturally balance your weight.

According to Ayurveda, every person is born with a constitution that is made up of a unique combination of the five elements (space, air, fire, water and earth). Some people are born with large bones, some with small bones while some people build muscle easily while others do not. Your body is the “vehicle” for your soul and it was made for you to function optimally in this lifetime. Just as your constitution is unique, so is your ideal weight. Too much over your optimal weight indicates accumulation of fat and strains your vital organs. Too much under and you lose the protection that fat and muscle provide for the organs.

Give yourself the opportunity to finally see the results you are looking for once and for all by forgetting restrictive dieting and enjoying a Holistic lifestyle. Applying time-proven principles to eating and living on a consistent basis will align you with nature, resulting in natural weight loss, a healthier body, a clear mind and the space to thrive long-term. Say hello to a healthier, happier you that feels great both inside and out.

Here are some Holistic Diet & Lifestyle principles you can start introducing into your life today:

• Favor foods that are light, dry and warm
• Eat lots of vegetables, preferably steamed, roasted or stir-fried
• Enjoy meals at the same time each day
• Avoid eating after 7pm
• Eat only until 75% full – enjoy feeling satisfied rather than stuffed
• Cold drinks should be avoided as they dampen the digestive fire
• Enjoy Home-cooked foods as they are cooked with love
• Listen to the signals your body is sending you
• Spend time outdoors
• Say grace or express gratitude before your meals
• Focus and enjoy your food
• Eat and live with love!

Have you ever heard the phrase, “Choose your words wisely?” Research has proven how the words we use literally shape the world around us and create the life and body we live in. The impact of positive and negative emotions might be more powerful than you think.

Masaru Emoto a Japanese researcher explained how the human consciousness has an effect on the structure of water and food. He showed how water could react to positive thoughts and words and that polluted water could be cleaned through prayer and positive visualization. He also did a similar experiment on jars of cooked rice. Rice stayed clean and eatable when it was appreciated, but the rice that was hated or ignored, turned black and moldy.

That is why it’s true when they say that food made with love always tastes better. Who prepares our food, and how it is cooked will effect not only how much we enjoy it but its ability to nourish us. 10 people can cook the same recipe but its taste will differ! This difference comes from the energy that was put into it — some may call that the “art of cooking with love”! That may explain why food made by our grandmothers or mothers always tastes the best.

Traditionally, people prayed before their meals. Showing gratitude for food before eating, is an ancient practice with proven benefits. By thanking nature and everyone involved in providing for the meal, the senses open up and prepare the body for proper digestion. When we are conscious and we smell, see, taste and fall in love with what we are putting into our body, our food becomes more delicious and nutritious!

Whether it is towards water, our food, ourselves or other humans, words we use, thoughts we have and intentions we set, have a powerful affect on everything around us!

The Holistic Lifestyle and Holistic Cuisine considers all elements around eating, making it a truly HOLISTIC approach. How you prepare your food, how you eat your food and with whom you eat it is more important than what you actually eat. Try implementing the following Holistic tips to support your health and happiness:

• Have food in a peaceful environment
• Listen to classical music when cooking
• Eat when you are relaxed
• Chew food properly
• Enjoy eating with good company
• Indulge with all your senses
• Concentrate & enjoy every bite
• Support digestion by taking a light walk after meals

Healthy dessert recipes to satisfy your sweet tooth!

Holistic Cuisine encourages enjoyment rather than restriction. Every now and then indulging in something sweet can help keep you balanced! Natural fruits like baked apples and dates are the best resources to satisfy sweet cravings. Other desserts can be enjoyed occasionally, however they are best eaten on their own rather than after meals.

A modern trend based on ancient traditions

If your friends told you to go jump in a frozen lake, would you do it? If you are like most people, the very idea creates an instant draw back! Nothing could be more nerve-racking. Yet, this type of cold exposure has been used throughout much of human history as a potent tool for health. Today, science is backing up those ancient traditions with studies showing that cold conditioning might just be one of the simplest and most effective methods to positively shift your mental and physical health!

Have you noticed how athletes use ice baths or ice packs after physical exercise? This is one way of speeding up their recovery as it significantly reduces inflammation, swelling and sore muscles! Exposing one’s body to cold temperatures has been receiving an increased popularity among health devotees. Professional athletes, bodybuilders, and celebrities swear by something called: whole body Cryo therapy. This therapy puts you in a cabin for a short amount of time, while extremely cold air is circulated around you.

This technique is nothing new to traditional practices in northern countries like Scandinavia or eastern Europe. People keep themselves fit by rolling in the snow followed by stepping into a warm jacuzzi or jumping into ice water after the sauna. Other ancient traditions have recommended cold showers to increase blood circulation and boost energy. All these come from the same understanding of how beneficial it is to shock the body with the cold for a short amount of time.

Since we don’t all have the ability to roll in the snow or jump into an ice bath, Cryotherapy is allowing us to not only experience extreme cold exposure but also optimize it! In just 1-3minutes, this rapid decrease of temperature leads to accelerated healing including cellular renewal, cleaner and more oxygenated blood, improved sleep quality, and an increase of optimal energy and vitality.

With so much information out there on how to be the “perfect parent” we are here to support you every step of the way! Holistic parenting is an ongoing journey that will need continuous adjustment and development as we go along. Our children are the future of this world and it is our responsibility to do the best we can for their development, health and happiness, so that eventually they do the same for future generations This is one way we can help create a happier and healthier world!

“You cannot fight fear, stress, anxiety or tension. It has to be understood. The moment you fight fear, you accept fear as an object and you create it’s existence. Darkness doesn’t exist — it is a lack of light! Fear doesn’t exist, — it is a lack of experience. And so, stress also does not exist — it is a lack of awareness and a fear of failure! Stress is your reaction to adapt. If you know how to adapt, mentally and physically, you will not feel stress.” – Dr. Ludmila