Sunday, February 22, 2015


 
 
Bi-Weekly Tarot Reading:  2-22-15 through 3-7-15
 AND
 Blog #37:  The Dangers of Soy
 
LEGACY OF THE DIVINE TAROT
 
 
5 OF WANDS:  We all experience defeat and disappointment at some point, but the main thing to remember is that we learn more from these experiences than if everything always went our way.  Also, if we accept the challenge and move forward, we find that we can indeed persevere, and things eventually will turn around.
 
7 OF COINS:  When working on a project or a long-term venture, our natural desire is for things to happen quickly.  That is not the way things work, however, and the main point is that the most important things are the ones that take a little bit longer than instant manifestation and gratification.  So if you are feeling discouraged that you have not yet seen the results of your hard work, just hang in there, continuing to move ahead, and envision the great things that are in the works.
 
KNIGHT OF WANDS: This wonderful high-powered energy will be with you for the next two weeks, so take advantage of a higher motivation, a desire to work harder, or just the feeling that you can accomplish one thing that perhaps you have been putting off.  The fire of enthusiasm will burn brightly, so allow what may now just be a spark to ignite into something truly amazing.
 
BI-WEEKLY THEME: Do not be disappointed because of a minor setback. Instead, see this as a sign that whatever you desired was not meant to be, and there is something better waiting for you. Give yourself credit for pushing ahead despite the challenge. Be patient with looking for results of projects that may take longer to manifest, for this is part of lessons we are learning. Visualize the outcome you want, continue to put forth effort to achieve your goal, and then enjoy the results when they appear.  This is a good time to get ahead, because the Knight energy and the fire energy are a powerful combination.  You are feeling enthused, motivated, and ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
 
Blog #37:  The Dangers of Soy


Retrieved from www.gizmag.com
 
In the past and still today, soy has been touted as a healthy food that is good for us.  But have you ever heard that this may not be the case? Research shows the many dangers associated with soy consumption.  Here are just a few of them.

Ø  Soy is high in phytoestrogens, which are plant-based estrogens that mimic the estrogen in our bodies.  When our bodies have too much estrogen, some of the possible harmful effects include breast cancer, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, infertility, and low libido.  Plus, this fake estrogen can disrupt normal endocrine functions and lead to disruption of the menstrual cycle.

Ø  Soy includes goitrogens, which prevent the normal production of thyroid hormones by hindering the thyroid from getting the required amount of iodine. This could lead to possible hypothyroidism and thyroid cancer.  Some babies fed soy formula developed autoimmune thyroid disease.

Ø  Soy is high in phytates, which are enzyme-inhibitors that block the absorption of minerals in the digestive tract—specifically calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, and zinc.  In order to be digestible for humans, soy needs to be properly fermented.  If you choose to eat soy, then it is better to consume fermented products like miso, tempeh, natto, or tamari (a naturally fermented soy sauce).  In fact, fermented soy is a good source of vitamin K2, which when mixed with vitamin D can help prevent osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, dementia, and different types of cancer.

Ø  Soy contains many trypsin inhibitors.  Our bodies need trypsin to properly digest protein, so if we don’t have it, then we can experience stomach cramps, diarrhea, and bleeding, including possible future pancreas problems.

So, if you enjoy edamame or tofu, it’s fine to eat these products sparingly. Just be aware that there are dangers associated with too much soy.  However, if you have any thyroid issues, it is best to avoid it completely.

Asians eat only about two teaspoons of highly fermented soy a day, usually as a condiment, which is why they have not had any trouble with it.  They also eat it with foods that are rich in nutrients and minerals.

Be aware that soy is an ingredient in soy burgers, ice cream, milk shakes, and artificial cheese.  Food manufacturers make the milk and ice cream look white and creamy—very enticing. However, a look at what these products are made of includes soy protein, sugar and vegetable oil.  Often they have many additives in them so they have the flavor of the real foods they mimic.

As if all this weren’t bad enough, over 90% of the soybeans grown in the U.S. are genetically modified and sprayed.  When shopping, it is preferable if you look for products that are clearly labeled “non-GMO”.  (See Blog #29 for more information on GMOs.)

In conclusion, if you really enjoy soy products, try to limit your intake of them.  And read the ingredients on any product that contains soy.  Of course the best option is to avoid them altogether.

Sources



 

 

Sunday, February 8, 2015


Bi-Weekly Tarot Reading:  2-8-15 through 2-21-15
 AND
 Blog #36:  Houseplants That Purify the Air
 
LEGACY OF THE DIVINE TAROT
 

 
 8 OF COINS: Preparation and contemplation of what direction you want to go in are still important, so don't lose sight of the value of planning.  You can achieve much this year, so focus on at least one goal that you would like to accomplish and spend time discovering the best way to go about this.
THE CHARIOT: Believe in yourself, being assured that you are exactly where you were meant to be. You are traveling on the path you have chosen for yourself.  If it is not to your liking, you can change direction and will be able to deal with any opposing forces that you meet. Remember to go with the flow and let things unfold in their own time, according to divine plan.
THE HIGH PRIESTESS:  During the next two weeks, it will be important for you to trust your intuition and go with your inner truth. Listen to your feelings and believe that your gut instincts will show you what you need to know. It is all about faith and belief in yourself, for you already have all the answers; you just need to recognize this.
BI-WEEKLY THEME: Continue to lay plans and a firm foundation for the year. Set at least one achievable goal that you can accomplish and give yourself a deadline.  Then follow your plan, knowing that this is part of your journey forward. Let the Chariot energy move you ahead as you trust and believe in yourself and your intuition. This can be a powerful time for you if you allow it to be so.
 
Blog #36:  Houseplants That Purify the Air

 Retrieved from countrysideimages.com
 
If you are a plant-lover, chances are that you have a home filled with beautiful green plants.   They are not only pleasant to look at, but research has shown that they can help relieve tension and reduce stress levels.  But did you know that, in addition to these benefits, there are certain plants that do a really good job of cleansing the air in your home?

In fact, NASA has conducted an official study on air-purifying plants and even assigned a score to each on how well they can eliminate chemical vapors and how easy they are to maintain. The study recommended that for optimal air cleaning, a house or apartment should have at least 15-18 plants for an 1800-square foot dwelling.  However, if you don’t want to care for that many, you can choose any number you want, knowing that the plants listed below will provide you with a cleaner home atmosphere.

Here are some of the top recommendations for air-cleansing houseplants that are not only beautiful but provide you with some wonderful health benefits.

Ø  English ivy—This plant has amazing abilities to filter air, such as helping to remove harmful chemicals like formaldehyde.  It is on NASA’s list and was given a rating of 7.8 on 10-point scale.  It is easy to grow, very adaptable, can be grown in a hanging pot or one on the floor, and does well in small spaces with moderate to little sunlight.

Ø  Peace lily—This is one of the few flowering plants that helps purify the air of toxins.  It is not only beautiful, but is also low maintenance (requires only weekly watering).  It is very forgiving, and lets you know when you have forgotten to water it, because it gets droopy.  It helps rid the air of VOC (volatile organic compounds) benzene, a carcinogen found in paints, furniture wax, and polishes.  It also helps eliminate acetone given off by electronic devices, adhesives, and some cleaners.  However, it should be kept out of the reach of pets, as it is harmful to them.  Its NASA purifying rating is 7.5.

Ø  Spider plant (also called airplane plants)—This plant is good for beginners, because it reproduces quickly and can recuperate easily from a lack of attention.  It has long, green and white striped leaves that can grow 12-18 inches long.  A mature plant has many plantlets on long stems.  It helps get rid of formaldehyde, carbon dioxide, and benzene.

Ø  Golden pothos—This beautiful plant grows best in cool temperatures and low sunlight levels.  It is fast-growing and very flexible. It has dark green leaves with golden streaks and marbling, and is good for clearing the air of formaldehyde, carbon monoxide, and benzene.  If you keep one near an entryway by your garage, it will help with clearing your home of the toxicity from car exhaust fumes that may get into the house.

Ø  Red-edged dracaena—This plant grows slowly, but can reach up to 15 feet eventually, so it is good for decorating and placing in corners.   The red color looks beautiful in the midst of other green plants.  It does best in moderate sunlight and will help clear the air of xylene, trichloroethylene, and formaldehyde, which get into the air through lacquers, varnishes, and sealers.  NASA purifying score is 7.8.

Ø  Aloe plant—This plant can do double-duty, for it is mostly known for the ability of its gel to soothe sunburns, stings, or cuts.  It also helps clear the air of toxins found in chemical cleaning products.  In fact, a unique quality is that its leaves will turn brown if there are too many harmful chemicals in the air.  It prefers bright sunlight.

Ø  Rubber tree—This is one of the easiest to grow, so if you have a “black thumb” but want to purify the air in your home, you may want to consider this one.  They thrive even in dim lighting but prefer brighter light that isn’t too hot.  They are good for removing formaldehyde and other toxins from the air.  But if you have pets, be sure to keep this plant out of reach.

Ø  Snake plant—This plant can grow without much light or water and absorbs carbon dioxide.  An interesting fact is that it releases oxygen during the night, so it’s possible that keeping one in the bedroom may help give a slight oxygen burst that could result in better sleep. Most plants release oxygen during the day.

Ø  Philodendron—This one is popular because it is easy to care for and can grow lovely vines. As with other plants mentioned, they are good at absorbing formaldehyde.  They can last for many years with proper care, preferring moderate water and some sunlight.

This is only a partial list of some of the best air-cleaning plants.  You can visit the websites given below for more information.

Sources