How to Understand Calories

by Sam Suska

The conventional American perspective on nutrition uses calories as a tool to evaluate food and make dietary suggestions. In general, the conventional American perspective makes the ill-advised assumption that all calories are equal; hence the saying "a calorie is a calorie". This flawed assumption has built a nutritional outlook that focuses on the quantity of calories while directly overlooking the quality within the calories. As a result the dietary advice from the conventional perspective focuses on reducing calories in order to "improve diet" and possibly meet goals like losing weight or improving health.

The conventional American focus on the number of calories has been confusing, damaging and ineffective for the overall health of Americans. The best-selling books, "In Defense of Food" by Michael Pollan and "Good Calories, Bad Calories" by Gary Taubes investigate the flawed conventional American nutritional advice in two completely different manners. Along with the vital text "The pH Miracle" by Dr. Robert Young, these profound books played an essential role in the forming of the nutritional principles within the holistic self-care perspective I have formed.

The holistic self-care perspective will be explained and detailed in the forthcoming text, "The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Holistic Self-Care". Holistic nutrition plays an instrumental role in the overall lifestyle holistic self-care, and is focused on the quality within calories and completely overlooks the quantity of calories! As a result the holistic nutrition focuses on replacing foods that are low quality (which may or may not be high calories) with high quality foods (which may or may not be high in calories).

"In Defense of Food" and "Good Calories, Bad Calories" do a fantastic job of investigating the conventional American nutrition perspective and explaining the many flawed assumptions which are used to build the conventional perspective as a whole. Michael Pollan and Gary Taubes make valuable contributions towards understanding calories and food more practically and rationally but overlook the most powerful factor of food; the pH influence of the specific food within the human body.

Prior to moving forward I must state that I am not completely condemning the reducing of calories in order to lose weight. I am condemning calorie reduction and focusing on calories because this does not focus on the quality of foods and the resulting health implications. Caloric reduction can be a significant first step for individuals who are intimidated or uncomfortable with significantly improving the quality of the foods chosen for consumption. It is very possible to reduce bodyweight, even significantly, simply by reducing the overall number of calories while continuing to eat the same poor foods. However, as both "In Defense of Food" and "Good Calories, Bad Calories" observe and conclude that caloric reduction while eating low quality foods does not lead to a healthier, happier individual. Caloric reduction, if practiced with low quality foods will negatively impact the metabolism and lead to regained weight and/or chronic health issues; and this is only the 'tip of the iceberg' of health issues resulting from poor quality foods, no matter the amount consumed.

"The pH Miracle" does not truly investigate the conventional American nutritional perspective, instead focusing on simply stating the pH-based perspective on foods and calories. The single most important realization from Dr. Robert Young is that the body does not actually "run" on calories, but on the electrical energy held within calories. The conventional American nutritional perspective is built on one flawed assumption that the body "runs" on calories.

Dr. Young observes the laws and conclusions of physics when considering calories. The reality is that all matter, whether living or inanimate is made up of electrical energy containing protons and electrons. The protons and electrons within foods is what provides the 'energy' from food; more specifically electrons provide the body with lasting 'energy' while protons, at best may only be able to stimulate the body for short-term 'energy'. The short-term 'energy' of protons can be observed in proton-dense components of processed foods like sugar, caffeine and additives like aspartame or MSG which provide immediate stimulation but have clear long-term detrimental effect on the human body.

The electrical energy content of foods generally corresponds with the pH implications of the food within the human body, thus electron dense foods generally raise pH. The electrical energy content of foods can be found by measuring the vibration of solids or the oxidative reductive potential (ORP) of liquids. "Raw Food Life Force Energy", by Natalia Rose has a good chart which summarizes the findings from multiple scientific studies. Dr. Young himself has measured the ORP of a good deal of liquids, including waters and many commonly consumed beverages.

A great deal of electron-dense foods and liquids, but certainly (and importantly) not all have the ability to raise the pH of the human body. The pH implications can be demonstrated by the ash left by the food upon digestion (which has been scientifically studied multiple times), but this method does not take into the overall effect of the food on the whole body. Dr. Young considers the net effect of the food on the pH of the body by observing the impact on the blood following the consumption of foods by viewing the blood with a high-powered microscope. As a result the holistic nutrition plan in "The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Holistic Self-Care" is mostly influenced by the work of Dr. Young with addition input from "In Defense of Food", "Good Calories, Bad Calories", "Raw Food Life Force Energy" and "Healing with Whole Foods".

"Healing with Whole Foods", by Paul Pitchford presents a great deal of the Asian perspective on nutrition. The Asian nutritional perspective is not based on calories or pH implications, instead focusing on how foods impact the overall 'energy' flow of the body and manifests as emotions and symptoms, both positive and negative . The holistic nutrition plan presented in "The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Holistic Self-Care" is very individualized, practical and asks the reader to never consider calories ever again.

The reader will evaluate foods based on the electrical energy content (electron dense vs. proton dense), the internal pH implications and the overall flow of 'energy' within the whole body. The reader will freely eat avocado's, fresh hummus and raw almond butter (which are high in calories) and avoid processed foods advertised as 'fat-free' or 'low-calorie'. The reader will also look for ways to add high calorie liquids like olive oil and hempseed oil to their meals which help raise pH while eliminating low calorie liquids like diet soda's, vinegar dressings and coffee which severely lower the pH within the body.

In addition, the reader will determine their own individualized holistic nutrition plan which suggests the proper balance between raw and lightly cooked foods in order to adequately generate and balance the 'energy' flow within the whole body. In combination with a multitude of other skills the reader will learn of practical ways to avoid the most damaging foods (called negative 'stressors') and realistic manners of implementing the holistic nutrition plan as a step-by-step process.

One can start their holistic nutrition plan today by replacing dairy, animal foods in general, processed foods and drinks with high quality foods which may or may not be high in calories. These high quality foods are green leafy vegetables, low-starch vegetables, sprouted nuts and seeds, specific nut and seed butters, a few grains (quinoa, buckwheat, millet and brown rice) and fatty fish. The following links are for articles previously written which specifically make some recommendations to start off a basic, soon-to-be individualized holistic nutrition plan

http://truehealthservices.blogspot.com/2010/06/10-holistic-nutrition-tips.html

http://truehealthservices.blogspot.com/2010/07/holistic-nutrition-shopping-list.html

http://truehealthservices.blogspot.com/2010/08/by-sam-suska-lifestyle-of-holistic-self.html

So, until "The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Holistic Self-Care" is published in 2011 the inspired individual can easily e-mail me directly at truehealthservices@gmail.com for direct information and holistic lifestyle consultations.

Furthermore, the ultra-inspired reader can directly read "The pH Miracle: Revised and Updated" by Dr. Robert Young first and follow that with "In Defense of Food" by Michael Pollan, "Good Calories, Bad Calories" by Gary Taubes. Furthermore, if one were so inclined and time efficient "Healing with Whole Foods" by Paul Pitchford and "Raw Food Life Force Energy" by Natalia Rose are also recommended. Finally, "Never Be Sick Again" by Raymond Francis, "Food Combining and Digestion" by Steve Meyerowitz, "The Ultra-Mind Solution" by Dr. Mark Hyman and "The China Study" by T. Colin Campbell offer valuable perspectives and practical suggestions on nutrition.

Best wishes in your holistic self-care, I encourage you to e-mail me with questions or comments. Thanks for reading and remember to be kind, not right when interacting with others and try to help at least one other person every day!

Be Kind, Not Right

by Sam Suska

Holistic self-care is a commitment to holistic-intentions which guide our choice-making process and lead us to giving ourselves balanced loving care and attention. This care is provided to our mind, body and spirit which are the equal aspects of our whole 'being'. Holistic self-care is the lifestyle I have designed to help any willing individual take control of how their body feels, how they think and manage emotions and ultimately find peace of mind and happiness.

Our mind, body and spirit of a person can be provided balanced loving care and attention by making 'optimal choices' in our 'basic functions'. The basic functions consist of everything we need and can possibly do, which can be categorized as one of the following; breathing, thinking, choosing, moving, eating, drinking, sleeping, eliminating, grooming and socializing. The 'optimal choices' are defined by the manners and sources we use to fulfill and perform the 'basic functions'; with the holistic-intentions of holistic self-care we willingly make these choices.

"True Health with Holistic Self-Care", my forthcoming book provides the reader with basic plans for implementing the lifestyle once he or she understands the basic philosophy and commits to the 'Stages of Empowerment'.

making the optimal choices in performing and fulfilling the basic functions. The individualized plans are holistic nutrition (eating, drinking), holistic living (sleeping, eliminating, grooming, socializing), holistic exercise (breathing, moving) and holistic planning (thinking, choosing).

The plan referred to as "holistic planning" focuses on the basic functions of thinking and choosing. These basic functions enable and govern the practice of holistic self-care as a whole. Whether or not one commits to making the optimal choices and provide balanced loving care and attention to each aspect of the 'being' depends on this. "Holistic planning" mainly employs the the mind and spirit; which interact to determine the process one uses to think and ultimately make decisions.

Conscious thinking is actually the process of considering, evaluating and determining options in concert with the outlook of the individual. The thought process is within control of the individual; with commitment to rational thought process one can evaluate and possibly address the feelings which form emotions. Emotions are generally the result of feelings, which are formed within the thought process and outlook; however, when the individual is applying an irrational thought process they may feel as though they are 'slaves' to their own emotions. But, with patient and persistent application of "holistic planning" one can 'take control' of thought process and outlook.

Complementing the thought process is the outlook used by one to form perceptions and reactions of everything experienced. The perception of each situation affects the amount of information gathered, the instant reaction and how this information will be recalled. The outlook of the individual varies from the undesired negativity to the positive outlook for combination with a rational thought process to implement and maintain holistic self-care.

The mind of the individual operates the thought process and outlook with a steady interaction with the body, but significantly more from the spirit. The spiritual aspect of the individual is represented to the conscious mind and physical 'being' with deeper feelings. The feelings can be found within the sub-concious or deep within the conscious and consist of dynamic states of spiritual outlook and conflict.

The state of spiritual outlook can vary from extreme control to extreme lack of control; with preference of moderate control. The resulting feelings can be happiness, sadness, anger, despair or the desired contentment. With moderate control the individual can be 'in the moment' while taking non-extreme measures to care for one's self which over time the result can be spiritual contentment.

The spiritual state of conflict is usually deeper within the person, regulalry emerging to the conscious mind when making choices or applying thought process in quickly arising situations. The state of conflict can be expressed in situations which immediately 'stress' the individual with obstacles and noticeable difficulties. The state of conflict varies as well, from extremely conflicted to extremely thoughtless and uncaring. The preferred state of conflict is one of minimal conflict referred to as peacefulness.

The spirit desires the underlying states of contentment and peacefulness; both are very even-keel with a medium temperament. The foundational principle is that the whole 'being' can reach and maintain 'optimal function' with a content and peaceful spirit. 'Optimal function' is the 'holistic health status' which forms vitality, productivity and wellness. 'Optimal function' is the goal for holistic self-care and occurs when the mind, body and spirit each reach and maintain the overall states which form this overall status.

The mind desires the state of rational thought process with a positive outlook to enable 'optimal function'. The body reaches 'optimal function' with sustained alkaline pH and adequate, balanced 'energy' flow. These require the aforementioned spiritual states of peace and contentment; which can be initiated with a few simple measures that can resonate to the deeper states of conciousness or sub-conciousness.

Patience and persistence are the pre-requistes necessary to implement these simple measures to provide balanced loving care and attention to one's spiritual self. Patience is always required in self-care because the focus is on improving the underlying conditions, which generally develop over long periods of time. Noticeable symptoms referred to as the flu or a headcold may seem to quickly arise; but the truth is the underlying conditions of the person which enable these expressions of 'challenged function' developed slowly over time. Improving these underlying conditions generally requires a period of time; there is no magic pill in holistic self-care.

The first simple measure to address the spiritual aspect is the identification of one's own ego and the overall impact this has on life as a whole. In terms of holistic self-care the ego is viewed as the aspect of the individual with self-centered intentions. The self-centered intentions are not focused on nourishing the individual, but pleasing the personality, usually in the immediate time frame expressed by "I want". Holistic self-care consists mostly of one "should" be doing (positive 'stressors'), and with persistence the "should" will become "I want" as taste buds and energy levels evolve.

Simply noticing the balance of "wants" and "shoulds" will show the powerful impact the ego can have on 'holistic health status' and self-care as a whole. The follow-up measure consists of applying the holistic self-care principle of "be kind, not right". The kindness applies to how you perceive experiences and information, how you take care of your self and how/if you judge and interact with others. Socializing is a basic function and does impact the well-ness of the person as a whole, in fact conventional studies in the United States have repeatedly found individuals with satisfying social lives to live longer and with better quality.

"Be kind, not right" can be most readily applied to socializing during regular discussions like how and what people choose to eat. Foods and drinks are routinely discussed between people and this is a practical opportunity to "be kind, not right". The food choices of many people are formed by a combination of misguided advice and willingness to please one's personality. The pleasing of one's personality generally occurs with an irrational thought process in order to justify the choice of what one "wants".

These individuals generally use the conventional medical perspective on nutrition, which can be easily misconstrued due to it's basis on 'scientific reductionism'. Holistic nutrition is quite simple to understand and practical to implement, whereas the conventional medical perspective on nutrition can be understood many ways with difficulty to implement due to reliance on 'scientific reductionism'. For better understanding of 'scientific reductionism' please refer to "In Defense of Food", by Michael Pollan and please refer to the forthcoming text "The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Self-Care", by myself for holistic nutrition information.

When discussing foods and drinks one should not focus on "being right"; this generally does not help inspire others to implement holistic self-care. The focus on "being right" usually drives other people away from the principles discussed, and initiates an adversarial nature between outlooks on nutrition. However, one can readily focus on "being kind", by simply referring to the basic principles of 'holistic nutrition' and the intended states of 'being' within just the human body (alkaline pH with balanced, adequate 'energy' flow).

One can easily get tripped up into defending their principles and explaining the science behind them, but this generally does not inspire others to 'take control' of their lives with holistic self-care. The mind needs to be open and the willingness to improve one's self must exist within a person to consider, investigate and implement holistic self-care. When those traits surface it is usually noticeable, otherwise the best one can do is simply plant the seeds for others to empower themselves with holistic self-care.

So, make "be kind, not right" a frequent self-affirmation in your life as you commit to holistic self-care. Recall this affirmation when discussing many of the basic functions you may perform and fulfill with others such as eating, drinking and moving. Simply stating the principles behind what one does and the bodily intentions along with reserving judgment of what others do and follow will enact "be kind, not right" and lead to inspiring others to take steps towards their own holistic self-care.

Please e-mail me at truehealthservices@gmail.com with any questions, comments or feedback. I am presently completing "The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Holistic Self-Care" which will be an easily understood and practical handbook to 'take control' of one's own well-ness, vitality and health as a whole.

Holistic Health Status

by Sam Suska

There are multiple forms of ongoing healthcare available to the modern public. Ongoing healthcare is basically all healthcare outside of emergencies and acute situations which require immediate attention. The conventional American medical perspective is adept at handling these emergencies and acute situations with extraordinary results that have saved millions of lives. However, the conventional American medical perspective requires assistance from commplementary forms of ongoing healthcare to maximize effectiveness.

Ongoing healthcare is any manner of dealing with persistent health issues or ensuring optimal health, this includes caring for the mind and body. The modern public generally employs the conventional American medical perspective for ongoing healthcare, using medical professionals and medical services for addressing specific issues or regular check-ups. The definition of health used by the conventional American medical perspective guides the fundamentals, practices and tools employed and available to the medical professionals in this field.

The conventional American medical perspective generally defines health as "the absence of disease". The definition of health by the conventional American medical perspective leads medical prodessionals to focus on diagnosing disease at check-ups and applying the tools they are familiar with in order to manage the noticeable symptoms when addressing specific issues. There is a complementary form of ongoing healthcare available to the modern public which is built on an expanded definition of health that offers specific check-ups and a variety of tools in addressing specific issues and helping patients reach and maintain optimal health.

The holistic self-care perspective defines health as "the efficiency of the whole 'being' in 'adapting' to 'stressors' ". Holistic self-care observes health to be a dynamic, constantly changing 'status' that is based on how the mind, body and spirit deal with the inevitable 'stressors' in living. The holistic self-care perspective observes the majority of specific issues to be caused by inefficiency in 'adapting' to the 'stressors', therefore this ongoing healthcare perspective focuses on improving the functional ability of the whole person.

However, one does not need specific issues to seek or apply holistic self-care. Holistic self-care is simply an active form of taking control of the underlying causes and conditions of the whole person which determine health and influence the vitality and productivity of each individual person. The whole person consists of mind, body and spirit; these aspects work together in determining the functional ability of the individual. Holistic self-care addresses each aspect with safe, natural, effective manners including holistic professional care (holistic lifestyle coach, acupuncturist, chiropractor, reiki master, etc.) and holistic self-care (holistic nutrition plan, holistic exercise plan, holistic living plan, holistic planning).

The holistic self-care perspective addresses the underying conditions of the mind, body and spirit of the individual to improve the functional ability of the individual. The functional ability of the individual is referred to as the 'holistic health status', which can vary from 'optimal function' to 'challenged function'. The holistic self-care perspective provides the individual with a 'holistic health status' and an individualized plan to address the underlying conditions of the mind, body and spirit with professional care and a detailed self-care plan. The detailed holistic self-care plan is a process of improving the manners and sources the individual uses to fulfill and perform the basic functions (breathing, thinking, choosing, moving, eating, drinking, eliminating, sleeping, grooming and socializing).

The underlying causes of 'holistic health status' are generally found within the manners and sources the individual uses to perform and fulfill the basic functions. The basic scientific principle of finding causes guides the ongoing healthcare of holistic self-care; this means that many conventionally recognized diagnoses can be addressed, possibly alleviated. Holistic self-care does not claim to treat any conventionally recognized diagnoses; in fact holistic self-care uses a completely different understanding of disease or 'challenged function'. Conventionally recognized diseases likely fall into a stage of 'challenged function' which has less than optimal states of mind, body and spirit that are different for each individual person. Two individuals with the same conventional diagnosis very likely have a 'holistic health status' in differing stages of 'challenged function' with different states of mind, body and spirit that form this underlying condition of the whole person.

Each individual person has different genetics and capabilities with a variety of expressions of 'challenged function'. Holistic self-care is very individual based and uses a variety of professional care that cater to the individualized needs of each patient. Acupuncture, chiropractic, reiki and the foundational care of holistic lifestyle coaching apply different tools of treatment to each individual and put together individualized plans for holistic self-care.

'Challenged function' arises regularly throughout modern living and is generally expressed differently by each person; two people with identical lifestyles can go on to develop two different conventional diagnoses and two different stages of 'challenged function' as well. Holistic self-care is not focused on the expression of 'challenged function' but the underlying conditions of the 'holistic health status' and the basic functions which are the underlying causes that form and maintain the less than optimal states of mind, body and spirit.

The whole person can reach and maintain 'optimal function' when the mind, body and spirit are in specific states of 'being'. The mind requires a state of rational thought process and positive outlook for 'optimal function' to occur and maintain. The improvement of state of mind can occur with commitment to specific ideals and principles which seek to improve the outlook one has and the way they go about a thought process.

The spirit requires states of peacefulness and contentment for 'optimal function' to occur and be maintained. The improvement of spiritual state requires patience and is generally the product of commiting to nourishing one's self with optimal manners and sources of performing and fulfilling the basic functions. This commitment is the hallmark of holistic self-care and is a processs that is highly individualized and capable by all people regardless of present condition. "The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Holistic Self-Care", the forthcoming book I am in the process of completing describes this commitment while providing significant scientific rationale.

The final aspect of the whole 'being' is the body, which is generally the focus of the modern public. The modern public generally has a limited outlook on health and function because the body is generally considered a separate entity from mind and spirit; if mind and spirit are even considered at all. Holistic self-care is built on the principle that everything occuring life, including the state of the human body has underlying causes.

The underlying causes of 'holistic health status' and the state of the body specifically, are in almost all cases, found within the manners and sources the individual uses to perform and fulfill the basic functions. The human body can reach and maintain 'optimal function' when the states of alkaline pH and adequate, balanced 'energy flow' are persistent. The 'optimal function' state of the human body is ultimately determined by the choices made by the individual, which itself is a basic function (choosing).

As a result, the state of the body is the expression of the mind and spiritual states of the individual. The thought process and outlook employed by the mind and the states of conflict and outlook within the spirit integrate to determine and present options to the character of the individual which gathers this information to perform the basic function of choosing. Choosing is the basic function that determines the manners and choices one uses to perform and fulfill the rest of the basic functions.

'Holistic health status' can then be observed as the cycle of living; the states of mind and spirit make the choices which determine the state of the body and greatly influence the state of mind and spirit as well. The key to addressing the cycle of living which impacts and ultimately determines 'holistic health status' is to make the commitment to nourishing one's self with optimal manners and sources used to perform and fulfill the basic functions. This commitment is an individualized process, different for everyone but with univeral implications on health, vitality, productivity and performance as a whole. The peace of mind, satisfaction, relaxation and sense of controlling the feeling and function of the body results from holistic self-care.

I am currently completing a text entitled, "The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Holistic Self-Care " which will enable the reader to determine their own personal 'holistic health status' and a plan of holistic professional care and holistic self-care to address the underlying conditions and causes of the present status. The process begins with improving thought process, outlook and spiritual status in order to determine better options and make optimal choices of the manners and sources used to fulfill and perform the basic functions.

Holistic self-care is an empowering process that has personally impacted myself and many clients I have professionally guided in their journey to health and well-being. Thank you for reading this article, I hope to inspire each and every person I come in contact with in this life, and the process of writing this book has been rewarding. With my best wishes and thoughtfulness this text on holistic self-care will help a multitude of individuals reach 'optimal function' and inspire others to take an active role in health and well-being.

Please e-mail me at truehealthservices@gmail.com with your comments and questions. I am willing and able to converse or assist anyone. Thank you and best wishes.

Basic Function: Elimination

by Sam Suska

Holistic self-care is an active lifestyle of performing and fulfilling the basic functions (breathing, thinking, choosing, moving, eating, drinking, eliminating, sleeping, grooming, socializing) with optimal manners and sources. The optimal manners and sources of the basic functions are positive 'stressors', which form acids in the human body but with benefits that outweigh this negative result. When the basic functions are not performed in optimal manners and sources they are generally classifed as negative 'stressors', which form more acids than benefits they promote, if any.

Absolutely everything a human 'being' does is a 'stressor', classified as positive or negative, and fits into at least one of the categories of basic function. The balance between positive and negative 'stressors' plays the largest role in determining the 'holistic health status' of the individual. In addition, the balance between 'stressors' or acids formed within the human body and 'stressors' or acids eliminated from the human body plays a nearly equal and significant role in determining the 'holistic health status'.

Optimizing the basic functions, or practicing holistic self-care is essential, but many indidividuals in the 'holistic health status' of 'challenged function' need to go a step beyond by ensuring the elimination function is consistent and efficient. The basic function of elimination occurs through four modes of body function including respiration (breathing), urination, defecation (passing stool) and perspiration (sweating). A very integral aspect of holistic self-care is specifically supporting these modes regulalry and intelligently.

Supporting elimination can be as simple as maximizing the basic function of movement with consistent and faithful practice of holistic exercise and holistic nutrition plans. The holistic exercise will immediately increase the elimination through respiration (requiring more breathing) and perspiration (sweating). The holistic nutrition will immediately increase elimination through urination (from the gallon per day of alkaline water) and defecation (from dense, fibrous foods rich with antioxidants).

In order to ensure maximizing elimination with holistic exercise the focus needs to be on maintaining a full body sweat for 20 minutes. This means actually sweating for this amount of time; it may take 20 minutes to warm-up and initiate a sweat. The overall time period does not matter, what is important is full-body sweating and staying in an aerobic zone. When exercising in the aerobic zone, the acids formed are far outweighed by the benefits of conditioning the entire body and promoting elimination thus making it a positive 'stressor'.

However, exercise can also be performed in the anaerobic zone, which is considerably more vigorous and forms acids that generally outweigh the benefits making this a negative 'stressor'. Anaerobic exercise or what I constantly refer to as vigorous exercise has a plethora of potential benefits when performed in a holistic fashion. In my forthcoming text, "The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Holistic Self-Care", I describe and detail a variety of holistic exercise plans which maximize vigorous exercise by balancing it correctly with relaxing exercise and specific techniques that help clear the acids formed by anaerobic exercise.

For this article we will only refer to aerobic exercise, which is a very simple and efficient manner of maximizing the basic function of movement to stimulate the body to increase elimination of 'stressors'. Staying within this zone is as simple as checking the heart rate during exercise, which is quite easy to do in modern gyms on the lower-impact forms of cardio recommended for holistic exercise. The elliptical machine, the rowing machine and treadmills with think, cushioned treads are lower-impact machines in nealry all gyms that people may be able to check their heart rate. Staying between 110 bpm and 150 bpm will ensure that most people are in the aerobic zone, and remember to get a full body sweat for 20 minutes.

Maximizing elimination with holistic nutrition can be easily and painlessly performed with cost-effective supplementation. Quite simply adding chlorophyll drops and alkalizing drops to the gallon of water one aims to drink every day is quite an effective start. Chlorophyll drops can be purchased in many health food stores, this is simply an extract from plants, it is the nutrient that gives plants a green color. Chlorophyll can help loosen the mucus and fecal matter that generally line the 9 feet of small intestine and 3 feet of large intestine where most individuals seem to hold the waste from the Standard American Diet (SAD). One may notice a green tint to stool once they have been following this for a few days, that is expected and showing the improvement of elimination.

Complementing the chlorophyll with alkalizing drops is essential to not only ensure the water is alkaline, but also supplies the muscles which line the small and large intestines with minerals. The small and large intestines are basically internal muscles, and like all muscles they function optimally when 'loose' (think of your neck, what is worse than a 'tight' neck?). Alkalizing minerals like sodium, chloride, potassium and magnesium are what creates the conditions inside the muscle that allow relaxation and 'loose' feeling. The alkalizing drops, which are available through my business True Health Services, contain these nutrients which can help improve elimination by improving the function of intestinal muscles that push stool out of the body through the mode of defecation.

Holistic self-care is broken into 4 basic domains which I thoroughly describe and outline in "The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Holistic Self-Care", holistic nutrition, holistic exercise, holistic living and the ultra-important holistic planning. These 4 domains cover a variety of manners and strategies to perform and fulfill all of the basic functions in optimal fashion. Holistic nutrition covers eating, drinking and eliminating. Holistic exercise covers breathing, moving and eliminating. Holistic Living covers sleeping, grooming, socializing and eliminating. Finally, Holistic Planning covers thinking and choosing.

To round out this brief discussion of maximizing the basic function of elimination we must discuss the Holistic Living plan. Bathing is the simplest and often times the most effective manner to improve elimination through the mode of perspiration, as hot water opens the skin pores. A simple, effective bath for elimination purposes must be very hot and include alkaline minerals. These can be performed daily, the following bath is a morning bath which I refer to as 'energy' promoting, while also stimulating elimination.

Start with hot water, add 32 oz. of 3% hydrogen peroxide and 1 lb. of aluminum-free Baking Soda (Bob's Red Mill brand is great) and 1/2 lb. of epsom salt. This combination of alkaline minerals and hydrogen peroxide will open the skin pores to eliminate the acids stored directly under and within the skin. More importantly, the alkaline minerals and hydrogen peroxide will stimulate the external body to generate 'energy' flow while also providing the skin and connective tissues directly with minerals needed for optimal function. The internal body actually produces hydrogen peroxide as a means to assist in alkalization by multiple means such as improving oxygen flow and 'energy' flow.

In addition to bathing for elimination purposes, one can also sleep with elimination purposes by wearing food pads during the 6 to 8 hours of time when restoration and alkalization of the body occurs. The foot pads can assist these functions by drawing acids out of circulation, they are somewhaty cheap, easy to use and quite effective, especially since there is an extreme amount of blood flow through the legs and feet especially. Acuped is a noted brand which makes foot pads.

The preceeding manners and strategies to support the basic function of elimination are just scratching the surface. "The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Holistic Self-Care" details and describes these and many other (some more intense, some quite simple) strategies to eliminate 'stressors' from the body. Recall the balance between 'stressors' formed in the body and 'stressors' eliminated from the body is vital in determining the overall 'holistic health status' of an individual. Paying close attention and practicing the strategies described in this article is a very good step in taking control of one's health and wellness to improve vitality and productivity!

The first step in Holistic Self-Care

by Sam Suska

Initiating holistic self-care is a process of identifying one's negative 'stressors' and steadily replacing them with positive 'stressors'. Holistic self-care begins with making a very conscious effort to employ a rational thought process with a positive outlook. This includes focusing on the aspects of life and situations one is in control of while 'letting go' of focusing on what is out the individual's c0ntrol. Adequately responding to emotions will follow, and as one begins to take control of how they think, the emotions will become more rational as well.

In addition, one of the greatest benefits of the rational thought process with a positive outlook is the ability to determine the best options and make the optimal choices in fulfilling and performing the basic functions. How and what the individual breathes, thinks, chooses, moves, eats, drinks, eliminates, sleeps, grooms and socializes (the basic functions) plays the ultimate role in 'holistic health status' for many individuals.

Following employment of the rational thought process with positive outlook is becoming aware of and slowly instituting holistic nutrition. Holistic nutrition can be found in my forthcoming book, "The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Holistic Self-Care". But in short, holistic nutrition for the beginning holistic self-care includes reducing meats, eggs, dairy, gluten products, soy, vinegar, peanuts, sugary fruits, alcohol and caffeine products. This will be a process for most people, but health and peace of mind are the notable direct effects of eliminating these 'stressor' food and drinks and replacing them with vegetables, low-sugar fruits, nuts, seeds and fish.

Holistic exercise is the obvious step to complement the thinking and eating improvements. The key is to balance the types of exercise used (vigorous and relaxing) and improve the connection between mind and body. Relaxing exercise is absolutely necessary and quite overlooked, especially by the regular gym rats. This includes but is not limited to all forms of stretching, rebounding on a trampoline, yoga, qi-gong and tai-chi. This needs to be equally balanced with vigorous exercise which includes time efficient resistance training and cardio work preferably of low-impact variety and suited to one's individual conditioning level. Finding the optimal holistic exericise balance and using one's time efficiently are the keys to maximizing the effectiveness of exercise. The great benefit is increasing the basic function of eliminating 'stressors' which can lead to fat loss and improve body composition and functional status.

Finally, a holistic living plan which addresses the manners one uses to sleep, groom, socialize and encourage elimination. Simply using more "natural" products around the house and on the body is the first step for grooming. This includes toothpaste, deodorant, cleaning supplies and detergents. Next, organzing the sleeping area is essential, this can be done by reducing the electrical appliances in the sleeping room, and removing clutter. Socializing can be focused on by making the goal to have a positive interaction with one stranger and one associate or family member each and every day. Finally, supporting elimination with fiber and mineral supplementation, taking cleansing bath and wearing food pads to sleep in will help balance the positive and negative 'stressors'.

These are all direct and easy to employ initial steps in holistic self-care and are best used with a lifestyle journal which details each aspect. The holistic lifestyle journal is included in my forthcoming book, "The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Holistic Self-Care" and is quite proficient at reminding individuals to pay equal attention to the many aspects of living. Making these initial changes is quite possible regardless of the present situation of any individual. Just keep the mind on the prize......taking control of health, vitality and productivity. I personally have found this, along with many of the clients I personally work with. Now is the time to start your plan.

Holistic Resources

by Sam Suska

A lifestyle of holistic self-care requires time, planning, patience and some guidance. Please purchase the forthcoming text, "The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Holistic Self-Care" for in-depth guidance to initiate, build and maintain holistic self-care. For now, this is a brief introduction to help a motivated individual improve the quality of the sources used to fulfill and perform the basic functions of life.

I have personal experience using the following resources; I have employed, used or purchased all of the following. I have categorized the following resources by the basic function in which they support. The function of eating has a detailed list, I have more resources and reviews which I may expand upon in a future article. I also provide some insight with each resource; briefly outlining why and how to employ each resource.

1. Breathing
Improving the efficiency of breathing takes practice and some resistance. Using this apparatus adds resistance to either inhalation, exhalation or both at the same time. Use this exercise tool to improve the lung capacity and diaphragm strength. I personally use this a few times per week, focusing on diaphragm breathing; which is simply described as filling the stomach with air.
http://www.powerlung.com/

2. Thinking
Employing a rational thought process with a positive outlook is absolutely essential to making the commitment to nourishing the mind, body and spirit that signifies holistic self-care.
The following blog I previously authored is a solid introduction.
http://truehealthservices.blogspot.com/2010/08/rational-thought-process-w-positive.html

I was personally inspired by Dr. Pucci a few years ago and instituted the principles of rational thought to my life with great benefits and rewards. Please take this quick test and begin using the suggestions offered free of charge. This test can help you understand the rational thought process and how to use it in your life.
http://www.rational-thinking-score.com/

3. Choosing
Holistic self-care is the actual process of making the optimal choices to nourish, care and love your own mind, body and spirit. “The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Holistic Self-Care”, the book I am currently completing is basic professional guidance to making the optimal choices.
The following blog I previously authored is a solid introduction to choosing.
http://truehealthservices.blogspot.com/2010/06/options-and-choices.html

In addition to reading and employing the principles and tips in my book, I recommend two additional books which continue to motivate my personal holistic self-care lifestyle. “The pH Miracle: Revised and Updated”, by Dr. Robert Young is the single best source of scientific rationale on the pH balance of the human body, which is monumental in holistic self-care. Maintaining an alkaline pH with balanced, adequate ‘energy’ flow are the goals of holistic self-care and signify the mind and spirit commitment to nourishment and self-care as a whole.
Be sure to purchase the revised and updated version, which was released this year.
http://www.amazon.com/pH-Miracle-Balance-Reclaim-Health/dp/0446556181/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1281799782&sr=8-1

4. Moving
Holistic exercise is essential for reaching the ‘optimal function’ level of ‘holistic health status’ which signifies good health, vitality and peace of mind. Holistic exercise balances vigorous and relaxing forms of exercise on a regular basis without the need for extremely long gym time investment. In addition to “The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Holistic Self-Care” which details the scientific rationale and practical employment of a holistic exercise program, I recommend the following books which I refer to in my book.
Please read this blog I have written providing brief outline of holistic exercise:
http://truehealthservices.blogspot.com/2010/06/basic-function-moving.html

One can find a variety of vigorous exercises that can be performed nearly anywhere in this book.
http://www.rosstraining.com/nevergymless.html

The following book has a variety of relaxing exercise that can be performed nearly anywhere.
http://www.amazon.com/Energy-Now-Vitality-Overcome-Tension/dp/0028626753/ref=sr_1_7?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1281800841&sr=1-7

This book features a wealth of information on exercise from a mind-body perspective performed in order to honor posture and muscle balance. After browsing this text and feeling the results from applying many of his exercises and strategies I decided to use his company, The CHEK Institute, for some training and became certified as a holistic lifestyle coach.

http://www.amazon.com/Movement-That-Matters-Paul-Chek/dp/1583870024/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1290675918&sr=8-4

5. Eating

For an introduction to holistic nutrition please refer to these blogs I have written, the first one is long, the others are shorter and more concise.

This blog explains the acts of eating and digestion and how they determine food choices.
http://truehealthservices.blogspot.com/2010/06/basic-function-eating.html

This blog provides a brief intro to evaluating foods from a holistic perspective.

http://truehealthservices.blogspot.com/2010/10/how-to-understand-calories.html

This blog is a brief suggestion of some meals, foods and strategies for a holistic nutrition plan.

http://truehealthservices.blogspot.com/2010/06/10-holistic-nutrition-tips.html

This is simply a list of some foods to purchase for implementing a holistic nutrition.
http://truehealthservices.blogspot.com/2010/07/holistic-nutrition-shopping-list.html
The following foods meet the basic holistic nutrition requirement by providing significantly more benefit (alkaline pH and ‘energy’) than cost (acidic pH and deficient or imbalanced ‘energy’).

SEA SALT
These brands are both high quality, but the pH miracle brand is actually a colloidal forms of sea salt, with all its minerals not just NaCl. I highly recommend the pH miracle colloidal salt to spray onto salads, cooked veggies, cooked fish, raw fish, basically everything. The body needs salt to conduct the 'energy' running it; a healthy body will have around one pound of salt! Many of the cravings (sugars, starches) and urges (meats) people deal with on a regular basis are actually the body telling the mind it needs salt, and it needs salt badly. Salt is the primary ingredient used by the body to not just conduct 'energy' but alkalize itself as well (sodium bicarbonate). Support the body by consuming these sea salts daily.
http://phmiracleliving.com/p-211-phlavor.aspx
https://www.realsalt.com/shop/realsalt-granular/realsalt-pouch.html

ORGANIC hempseed oil
I recommend to add a tablespoon to a salad or cover nuts and seeds with this delicious oil. The goal is to get in 1 tablespoon of this oil daily to help the body eliminate 'stressors' or use acids for energy. Essential oils, like this one easily bind to acids in the blood and can be burned cleanly for energy.

http://manitobaharvest.com/cartshop/productview.asp?key=3
http://www.worldpantry.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/ProductDisplay?prmenbr=655972&prrfnbr=708962
http://www.vitacost.com/Living-Harvest-Organic-Hemp-Oil-8-45-fl-oz-Each-Pack-of-6

ORGANIC macadamia nut oil
I recommend to get at least a tablespoon of macadamia nut oil on a regular basis. I personally cover a serving of nuts or seeds with this oil; I do not prefer to use this with salads or veggies. http://www.nowfoods.com/Products/ProductsbyCategory/Category/M043295.htm?cat=Natural%20Foods%2c%20Organic

ORGANIC rice protein concentrate
This is a quality vegetarian form of protein that can be added to a cup of water to ensure one is receiving enough of the amino acids needed for 'optimal function'.
http://www.nutribiotic.com/organic-rice-protein.htm

ORGANIC hemp protein concentrate

Hempseed protein is a wonderful vegetarian form of protein which also provides a healthy serving of fiber with it. There are 2 brands I recommend, one is very fiber dense and the other still contains fiber, but much less. Use hemp protein, rice protein or pea protein concentrates to supplement or assist your diet in fulfilling your amino acid needs. Remember, these supplements are only capable of assisting your diet, not playing a major role. Use wild fatty fish, spinach, avocado, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, quinoa, sesame seed butter (quinoa), chickpeas, brown rice, millet, artichokes and all green leafy veggies as your key protein sources.

Fiber dense hemp protein:

http://www.vitacost.com/Manitoba-Harvest-Certified-Organic-Hemp-Pro-Fiber

Less fiber dense hemp protein, very cost-effective as well:

http://www.vitacost.com/Nutiva-Organic-Hemp-Protein-50-3-lbs

ORGANIC pea protein concentrate
One should consistently alter the sources of protein in the nutrition plan. Even mixing two or three types of protein concentrate in one drink is a good strategy to supply the body with a multitude of amino acids.
http://www.sourcenaturals.com/products/GP2258/

Essential Oil Blend
This is an oil that can be added to salads, already cooked foods and nuts and seeds. This oil blend uses flax, sesame, sunflower and evening primrose for omega 3, 6 and 9.
http://www.florahealth.com/flora/home/USA/Products/R67980.htm

ORGANIC shelled hemp seed (whole)
These are very small and can be added as toppings to salads, cooked veggies or even eaten with nuts and seeds. These are protein packed, and are acually a whole food, so they have a nice serving of hemp oil as well.
http://nutiva.com/products/7_hempseeds.php

ORGANIC flax seed, cold-milled "powder/flour"

This is like a flour or powder you can use to add to a soup, make a breakfast with or simply bake with.

http://flaxusa.com/products.php?page=organic

ORGANIC grapefruit
Organic grapefruit taste considerable better than the new-fangled conventional pesticide version. These are from one of the most prominent organic farms located just outside of San Diego.
http://phmiracleliving.com/p-154-grapefruits-organic-box-of-20-25.aspx

ORGANIC sprouted pumpkin seeds
I always recommend to sprout seeds to maximize the 'energy' content and alkalinity.
http://www.goraw.com/products/Sprouted_Pumpkin_Seeds

ORGANIC sprouted sunflower seeds
These seeds, along with pumpkin seeds are quite protein dense, and can be combined with one of the oils for a quality meal.
http://www.goraw.com/products/Sprouted_Sunflower_Seeds

ORGANIC sunflower oil

This is also a high quality oil as long as it made in a high quality fashion, which means it is expeller processed and organic. Sunflower oil can be used for stir-fry and added to foods as well. Sunflower oil is a great oil to add variety to your nutrition and provide your vegetable, nuts and seeds with a different taste.

http://www.worldpantry.com/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/ProductDisplay?prmenbr=121121&prrfnbr=629659

ORGANIC coconut oil
This oil is very affordable, but the quality is the same as other coconut oils. Use this to cook your foods and even drink or eat a tablespoon with an all-fruit meal to maximize 'energy', stimulate metabolism and detox the body. In fact, coconut oil has been shown to do a multitude of health promoting things; make organic coconut oil a regular part of your life.
http://www.vitacost.com/NSI-Extra-Virgin-Certified-Organic-Coconut-Oil-54-fl-oz

ORGANIC dried peas
These are protein dense, but a starchy as well; so keep the serving sizes small. You can add these to top off salads and cooked veggies.
http://www.justtomatoes.com/OJPEAS-P.html

ORGANIC almond butter
Almond butter is a great tool to replace peanut buttter, which is a mold product and has no business in a health promoting diet.
http://www.gohunza.com/product_info.php?cPath=31&products_id=153

ORGANIC sesame seed butter (TAHINI)
Tahini is a wonderful source of iron, calcium and protein that can be easily absorbed by the body due to the raw process this company uses to make this product.
http://www.livingtreecommunity.com/store2/product.asp?id=10&catid=44

ORGANIC apricot kernels/seeds
These seeds are quite delicious, and have a sweet taste to them despite having little sugar. They are full of protein and essential fats; add to your rotation of nuts and seeds to spice up your diet a little bit.

http://www.gohunza.com/product_info.php?cPath=21&products_id=35
http://www.sunorganicfarm.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=N151&Category_Code=AK&Product_Count=0

ORGANIC fenugreek seeds
Fenugreek seeds hve been gaining notoriety lately due to many healing properties. These can even be added to salads as they combine well with other non fatty foods. http://www.sunorganicfarm.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=S031&Category_Code=SEE&Product_Count=12

ORGANIC shelled walnuts/shelled brazil nuts/shelled pecans/shelled pistacchios
Shelled nuts are the preferable manner to buy them. Simply break the shell and soak in water over night prior to making a meal out of them. It is always preferred to soak nuts to ease the digestion and maximize the availability of nutrients held within nuts. http://www.sunorganicfarm.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Category_Code=NUT

ORGANIC olives
These organic olives are wonderful to add to salads or lightly cooked veggies.
http://www.foodmatch.com/Products.aspx?id=a4&c=ORGANIC&pc=ORGANIC

Yeast-free, gluten-free BREAD
There are a variety of breads to choose from here. The selection is absolutely phenomenal with a multitude of breads derived from quinoa, buckwheat, millet and many more quality ingredients.
https://bear.he.net/~grindst/epistore/index.php?category=Gluten+free&ref=

Yeast-free, gluten free ORGANIC CRACKERS

One can add these crackers to soups for taste and texture. These crackers work best as delicious, nutritious croutons added to salads and cooked vegetable mixtures. This company offers at least 5 different flavors, all are made with high quality ingredients.

http://lydiasorganics.com/product_list.html

ORGANIC salsa
Salsa is a quality dressing you can add to cooked veggies and salads. Be aware, many people have adverse reactions to the nightshade family, which includes not just tomatoes, but bell peppers, potatoes and eggplant. They can cause persistent, unrelenting inflammation in many people. If you have ongoing inflammatory issues I suggest to ignore these foods regularly for 28 days to observe the effect they have on you. You never know how good you can feel til you actually feel good; keep that in mind as you try the holistic nutrition plan. If you are not dealing with inflammation then you should definently give salsa a try.
http://www.amys.com/products/category_view.php?prod_category=16

ORGANIC buckwheat/quinoa/millet
These grains along with basmati rice and brown rice can be a part of a holistic nutrition plan. Just don't build your diet around grains (build it around veggies!) and keep the serving sizes moderate. Try to limit grains to once daily at most, but preferably every other day; and never consume acidic gluten grains like wheat, or acidic blood sugar spiking grains like white rice.
http://www.sunorganicfarm.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=CTGY&Category_Code=GRA

ORGANIC Brown Rice
Brown rice can really help bring a meal together and encourage powerful digestion and elimination. This grain is still somewhat acidic, so keep this in perspective and limit to smaller portions of meals at most every other day. This can really bring together a meal and help form the digestive harmony that forms and maintains 'optimal function'.
http://www.massaorganics.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=22&osCsid=f0b8ca0b4e033f67548fc46ff96aa278

6. Drinking
One gallon of alkaline water per day is a focus of holistic self-care. Many individuals have been chronically dehydrated for years, and will notice immediate benefits from simply increasing the quantity of water, even if it is not of proper quality. Using a filter is essential, I recommend the high quality versions.

WATER IONIZER with filter
The body runs on electrical 'energy' which is supplied by foods and drinks. All matter is composed of electrical energy, some in the form of protons and some in the form of electrons. Electrons have a negative charge and react with protons, which have a positive charge to generate or stimulate 'energy' in the human body. The human body is is largely made of protons, thus requiring a constant supply of electrons to generate 'energy'. While the body has the amazing ability to react with other protons like sugar and caffeine to stimulate 'energy', it has an intense need and desire for electrons. This water, along with holistic nutrition of raw and lightly cooked foods will help the body finally meet it's needs for electrical 'energy'.

This is the water ionizer I personally use to filter and provide my water with a negative charge, which also raises the pH to very high levels. This machine also can be easily adjusted to increase or lower the pH of the water you may drink or use to clean skin. Investing in this machine has been a rewarding and advanced step in my personal holistic self-care.

http://www.phmiracleliving.com/p-541-chanson-miracle-ionizer.aspx

In addition to simply drinking water, I recommend adding minerals to water as well.
WATER ALKALIZER
I also personally sell water alkalizer which has ionic elements of sodium, chloride and magnesium to add to your water to raise the pH and help the water more closely resemble the type of water we should be drinking. We should be drinking mineral water, our bodies are 60-70% water; drink a gallon of water each day with 40 drops of this added in.
e-mail me for ordering info: truehealthservices@gmail.com
ALUMINUM-FREE BAKING SODA
The preferred method of alkalizing within the body is by generating and secreting baking soda throughout the blood and into the tissues. Yes, the body produces it's own baking soda from sodium, chloride, water and carbon dioxide. Assist the body in alkalizing by adding 2 to 3 teaspoons to water each day. I recommend replacing conventioanl toothe paste with this as well; simply make a dense mixture with water and vigorously brush the teeth with this twice a day to alkalize the mouth.
http://www.bobsredmill.com/baking-soda.html
http://phmiracleliving.com/p-221-phour-salts.aspx

CHLOROPHYLL

Chlorophyll is quite similar to human blood, and has been shown multiple times as having the ability to readily convert to human blood once inside the human body. Chlorophyll has also been shown to build healthy red blood cells and promote oxygen content and flow within blood. This chlorophyll is very cost-effective and can be easily added to water on a daily basis. This chlorophyll is also free of the additives which make the majority of brands available poor choices.

http://www.phmiracleliving.com/p-541-chanson-miracle-ionizer.aspx

GREEN DRINK CONCENTRATE
I personally sell this concentrated dose of fruits and veggies which enables a person to get in up to 20 servings in one small drink. The peppermint taste is fantastic as well.
e-mail me for ordering info: truehealthservices@gmail.com
FRUIT DRINK CONCENTRATE
I also have red and purple fruit concentrated drinks which are low in sugar but may help an individual with sugar cravings or simply to stop drinking crap. This also has 10 to 20 servings of fruit in one scoop; powerful dose of antioxidants.
e-mail me for ordering info: truehealthservices@gmail.com

7. Grooming
SKIN BRUSH
The skin brush can be used on the whole body to assist the removal of dead skin and also generate the movement of lymph. I recommend brushing the whole body for 2 to 3 minutes before every shower, starting at the feet and brushing towards the colon.
http://www.earththerapeutics.net/prodinfo.asp?number=6970
DEODORANT
I personally sell a deodorant made from salts. This is preferable to conventional deodorants that actually prevent the lymphatic system from eliminating acids through the armpits. There is also considerable evidence that conventional deodorants are correlated with breast cancer; whether it is the aluminum or simply the act to prevent the body from natural detox, I do not know. But, get rid of conventional deodorants and try to support the natural function of the human body.
e-mail me for ordering info: truehealthservices@gmail.com

8. Socializing
The keys to building last social relationships are to remove the judgment and egotistical approach many live by, often times unknowingly. Equally important is to remove the self-centered outlook which forms perceptions and awareness. The following books can play a great role in forming the rational thought process which promotes these valuable characteristics.
I have read a few books by each author, I recommend browsing and purchasing those that may be most relevant to your own life; as each author has plenty of books, both in paper, on Kindle and on CD as well.
http://www.amazon.com/Albert-Ellis/e/B000APLUAE/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_5?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1281807956&sr=8-5

http://www.amazon.com/Wayne-W.-Dyer/e/B000AQ104Y/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_2?qid=1281808014&sr=1-2

9. Sleeping
We are intended to spend somewhere just short of 1/3 of our entire lives sleeping. The following book analyzes many aspects of life that impact the quality and quantity of sleep. The holistic self-care lifestyle seeks efficient sleep, which may take 6 hours for some, and up 9 hours for others. But the goal is to wake up feeling refreshed and positive. This book can help guide your investigation into all of the aspects of living that impact sleep, and provides solid, easy to implement solutions to maximize your sleep environment.
http://www.amazon.com/Alternative-Medicine-Magazines-Definitive-Disorders/dp/1587612631/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1281808160&sr=1-2

10. Eliminating
The human body is constantly forming 'stressors' from all of the basic functions and all of the actions of the internal and external body. The elimination systems are responsible for eliminating the acids formed by the 'stressors' in order to preserve the state of the body which promotes, forms and maintains 'optimal function'. 'Optimal function' occurs in the state of alkaline pH with adequate, balanced 'energy' flow. Breathing, sweating, urinating and moving the bowels are the primary methods the body uses to eliminate anything in the body that jeopardizes the state of body which promotes 'optimal function'. Supporting the elimination systems can be a part time job; this can be done with holistic exercise, specific foods and of course by maintaining consistent hydration with alkaline water. In addition, the following products can be used to support elimination.
NETTI POT
This has been used for hundreds of years to flush the sinuses.
http://www.amazon.com/Aromatic-Salt-Ceramic-Neti-Green/dp/B0013GY8D0
FOOT PADS
These can be used during sleep to help eliminate circulating toxins in the lymphatic system and in the circulation system.
http://www.acupeds.com/
EPSOM SALT
Regular use of 'detoxing' baths are part of the holistic self-care lifestyle. Using epsom salt, baking soda and sea salt is an excellent mixture to open the pores of the skin to eliminate 'stressors'.
http://www.custombathsalts.com/pure-epsum-salts.php
PH TESTING STRIPS

The pH of urine and saliva tell a great deal about one's health and ability to handle and recover from 'stressors', whether they are foods or emotions. Regularly testing these pH will help one get a solid grip of their health and how they respond to 'stressors'.

http://www.vitacost.com/TriMedica-AlkaMax-pH-Test-Papers

Please remember these are all resources to supplement the holistic self-care lifestyle you may be currently employing, or hopefully in the process of instituting. “The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Holistic Self-Care”, the text I am currently putting the finishing touches on.

Invest in yourself by implementing holistic self-care which can lead to greater productivity and vitality due to the ‘optimal function’ of your whole ‘being’. Holistic self-care is a lifestyle of providing your whole 'being', which is composed of mind, body and spirit, with balanced, loving care and attention. This article can help the motivated individual to take small steps to improving their lifestyle and beginning holistic self-care. Hopefully, one or more of these resources can help inspire your personal commitment to holistic self-care and the powerful results of peaceful mind and bodily health.

Best wishes, and please feel free to e-mail me with any questions or comments. Best wishes in your path through life, please contact me at truehealthservices@gmail.com if you feel inclined.

Rational Thought Process w/ Positive Outlook

by Sam Suska

The motivated individual can improve 'holistic health status' and reach the state of 'optimal function' with holistic self-care. 'Optimal function' is the overall state of the whole 'being' which characterizes a powerful, vital 'holistic health status'. In order to reach 'optimal function' or simply improve 'holistic health status', the whole 'being' desires reaching and maintaining of specific states of mind, body and spirit.

The states of mind, body and spirit determine the efficiency in which the whole 'being' can 'adapt' to 'stressors'; which signifies 'holistic health status'. In order to improve health, vitality and well-being the individual needs to improve the states of mind, body and spirit. The states of mind, body and spirit are quite dynamic and usually very sensitive to the manners and sources the individual uses to fulfill and perform the basic functions. Holistic self-care is the process of empowering the individual to make the optimal choices of fuliflling and performing the basic function to improve the states of mind, body and spirit to ultimatley reach 'optimal function'.

"The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Holistic Self-Care", the forthcoming book by Sam Suska fully details the states of 'being' and explains how and why to make the optimal choices to perform and fulfill the basic function. Persistently making these optimal choices will, in time, form the states of mind, body and spirit which enable and maintain 'optimal function'. A brief summary of the states of 'being' which enable and characterize health, vitality, well-being and 'optimal function' has to begin with discussing the mind. As previously noted and described in the previous blog, "Options and Choices", the basic functions of thinking and choosing play the ultimate role in determining 'holistic health status'.

The states of body and spirit are very dependent on the state of mind, which uses the basic function of thinking to present options for the basic function of choosing to take action. The basic function of choosing makes the decisions of manners and sources used to fulfill and perform the rest of the basic functions: breathing, moving, eating, drinking, sleeping, eliminating, grooming and socializing.

Maintaining the state of mind which enables and characterizes 'optimal function' is a hallmark of holistic self-care. The mind desires and requires a rational thought process with a positive outlook to enable and maintain 'optimal function' or simply improve 'holistic health status'.

The rational thought process focuses on aspects of life that are relevant and within control of the individual. In addition, the rational thought process is a way of thinking that positively views situations, issues and emotions that directly influence the individual. The rational thought process is very simple and avoids over-thinking and over-reacting; two prevalent characteristics in modern living.

Over-thinking and over-reacting are often times characteristics resulting from anxiety and depression, which powerfully impact the day to day living of millions in the modern public. In truth, anxiety and depression impact nearly everyone in the modern lifestyle, with varying levels of influence. Many people refer to and blame "stress", "nervousness" and "fear", while some may simply express these with hostility to others or sleeplesness; these are often times just low-grade forms of anxiety and depression.

In the state of mind which enables, forms and maintains 'optimal function' the over-thinking and over-reacting which characterize anxiety and depression are very unlikely. Holistic self-care is not a form of therapy and does not claim to cure or treat these expressions of 'challenged function'. Holistic self-care is simply a lifestyle for the individual to 'take control' of the factors which affect health, vitality and overall quality of life. In actuality, thinking is a choice! More precisely, the way one thinks is a choice! Holistic self-care seeks to improve how an individual thinks, not what the person thinks.

The rational thought process with a positive outlook is a chosen way of thinking, evaluating and viewing situations, issues and emotions. In fact, the rational thought process with a positive outlook actually takes powerful control over the perceptions, viewpoints and underlying feelings that form and create emotions. Commiting to a rational thought process with a positive outlook is the way to address the underlying causes of emotions that many people blame for the actions and choices they make.

The emotions people experience are the result not the cause; emotions form as a result of feelings and perceptions. One is not a slave to their emotions; understanding this is an essential part of holistic self-care. The outlook complementing the thought process plays the greates role in feelings and perceptions which create emotions.

Also important for the individual implementing holistic self-care is to recognize that emotions are natural and should not be suppressed. Living 'in the moment' creates a personal environment for the individual to experience the result of their feelings and perceptions in order to formulate the adequate responses.

Implementing this aspect of holistic self-care requires patience and positivity. Please refer to the forthcoming text, "The True Health Lifestyle: Guide for Holistic Self-Care" for a more thorough explanation of rational thought process with a positive outlook, fully complemented with strategies and tips for succesful implementation in modern society.

Instituting the rational thought process with a positive outlook is a process requiring patience and persistence; while fully understanding this may not be easy and direct, the resulting improvements are sure worth it.

Before reading the holistic self-care book, one can make some improvements right now to begin the life of rational thinking, positive outlook, improved state of mind and 'optimal function' as a whole. Make mental notes to focus only on thinking about aspects of living that are within your control. Next, make a mental note to calmly, and directly evaluate any feelings or emotions that arise; with the intention of finding out why you feel the way you feel.

Finally, remember that you are in control of how you view everything that happens and affects you. You are in control of your perceptions, and if you view everything from a positive manner including your own feelings and emotions, you are empowering yourself to take control of them. Holistic self-care begins with a commitment to nourishing the whole 'being' with balanced, loving care and attention. Instituting a rational thought process with a positive outlook may be the single most influential way to give yourself loving care and attention on a regular basis.