Saturday, January 28, 2012

Thank you.

My deepest thanks to my dear friend, Drew, for giving me the opportunity to be a co-contributor to this inspiring blog. I am Colina, a.k.a. Nikki, a.k.a, the Bean, a.k.a. whoever I am to you, and I am thrilled and honored to share my thoughts here. I am a big fan of creative outlets and am always searching for new means to express myself. And the opportunity to plug in to this one could not have come at a better time. 

It's a new year. I'm in a relatively new place - both geographically and personally. I'm experiencing new things at rapid speed, and with that comes an overwhelming onslaught of emotions, ambitions, inspirations, challenges, and oh so many other things. I feel myself changing every day, and at times it's hard to keep up. I am well aware that this is a positive change, and a very worthwhile journey, regardless of the sharp turns that I find myself relentlessly gripping to. I welcome you to roll down the windows, bump the stereo, hold on tight, and take this ride with me. I hope that during this creative process, I will learn even more about myself, and continue to grow - and maybe in some way, the sharing of my thoughts and experiences might ease the road for the travel of others. 

Cheers, and thank you! 

Friday, January 20, 2012

Value

I haven't known what to write since I lost my friend on Christmas Eve.  Value life.  Live yours fully while you're able.  Tell the ones you love how much you value having them in your life, as often as you can.  You never know when they might depart this world.

Monday, January 9, 2012

Food and Supplements

Over the past 4 years I've undergone some weird and shitty health problems/scares.  From serious acid reflux, to advanced psoriasis, to irritable bowels, to anxiety and panic, to clinical depression.  While prescriptions had some positive benefit they also created a slew of horrible side effects.  I've tried a number of natural cures to help get my health back in line.

I felt inclined to write this post because I'm feeling better than ever these days.  Instead of Aciphex for acid reflux I take a probiotic with every meal, refrain from drinking while eating and watch out for trigger foods.  For me they are red bell peppers, fresh garlic, and tomatoes.

Instead of a topical prescription ointment for Psoriasis, I use only 100% natural soaps and lotions.  More expensive but well worth the comfort.

Instead of Zoloft for depression and anxiety, I have adjusted my thought process and my diet.  I've been taking cod liver oil and vitamin D drops along with Brazilian nuts.  I drink 4-5 cups of green tea a day.  I have also been eating Hemp protein with fiber as a shake with some fruit.  I'm looking to add Hempseed oil now as well. 

My recent happiness and comfort proves what most of us believe inherently but seldom truly commit to.  You can heal your body by adjusting what you consume.  It doesn't take prescription drugs, at least in the long run in most cases.  The majority of the food and drink options in this country are filled with chemicals and processed "food" that is slowly breaking us down from the inside out.  Even if you remain overweight at first or continue to eat like crap most of the time, at least you know you're filling your body with healthy nutrients and vitamins as well. 

I've increased my exercise lately and have been focusing on kettle ball swings and yoga/body weight exercises.  There is no doubt in my mind that any bit of regular exercise can have a huge impact on your overall well being.

Start small and it will become habit.  Best wishes for good health in 2012 and beyond.

-Drew


Grateful

Start your day by writing down 10 things you're thankful for.  Do some stretching.  Eat a healthy breakfast.  Do all you can to begin life anew every day.  As a wise man once said, "you can choose to say Good Morning God or Good God Morning