NATURAL SLEEP REMEDIES

There is an entire industry devoted to the issue of sleeping disorders offering both drugs and natural sleep aids to allow you to rest in order to maintain good health.
Sleep-easy tips

• sleep in a cool room with proper ventilation for fresh air
• ensure the room and surrounds are quiet
• do not use caffeine, alcohol or eat heavy spicy foods for several hours before going to bed
• try to go to bed at roughly the same time every day
• exercise daily
• avoid using the bedroom as an office or work area
• ensure you get enough sunlight to maintain proper circadian rhythms which are necessary for sleep
• do not fight the need to sleep - if you are tired rest
• use rhythmic breathing or other meditative techniques to help fall asleep

These natural substances can assist;

• Valerian Root - a calming herb used as a natural sedative
• Chamomile - another herb used for relaxation
• Kava - used to promote muscle relaxation and aids sleep
• Tryptopham - an amino acid precursor to Seratonin and Melatonin, which are both involved in sleep
• Magnesium - a mineral that helps promote relaxation

Before using any of the above consult a doctor or naturopath who is knowledgeable about these substances.

Sleep is extremely important and a lack thereof can lead to problems ranging from difficulties with simple tasks to weakened immune function.

Last night's carrot bake

• steam and mash carrots (leave them still slightly chunky and rustic looking)
• chop onion, garlic, green/red/yellow peppers and chilli
• mix all the above ingredients and add salt 'n pepper
• transfer to a baking dish and cover with seasoned breadcrumbs and nutritional yeast
• bake until the topping is crunchy and enjoy together with boiled baby potatoes dunked in basil pesto........................ and a crunchy cabbage salad.

Today I am grateful for;

• one day closer to Christmas holidays
• my brother and Kathy returning from their holiday - back home - Yay!
• looking forward to Mish's birthday picnic bash at Kirstenbosch tomorrow
• my 'whopping' good health
• FIFA 2010 draw - looking forward to the excitement this evening. Cape Town has been buzzing all week with Celebs
• our 2010 stadium - I'm so proud

Quote

Even if there is nothing to laugh about, laugh on credit. - Unknown

Wisdom Card Reading

I am a harmonious being. I am in harmony with all of the people, places, and things that surround me in this world. I am at peace.

Today, spot the miracles with paws who laugh with their tails and join in raucously..........

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx

SHINY GLOWING RED PEPPERS

Christopher Columbus discovered sweet peppers on his travels in the New World. He thought he could make a fortune importing this delish veggie BUT sweet peppers grew fine in their new, Mediterranean home.

When young, sweet peppers or bell peppers are green. There are also yellow, orange, purple and brown varieties. Red peppers are actually green peppers left to ripen on the vine for a longer period of time. The sweetest peppers are red, yellow and orange, while green and purple peppers have a more tart flavour.

Peppers are full of vitamins and BONUS consist mostly of water so are low in calories.

Picking a pepper : Look for smooth, firm flesh that has a rich colour and no shriveled or soft spots. Avoid peppers with a hefty feel - this usually means they are full of seeds.

Pepper partners : Sweet peppers taste great with eggplant, tomatoes, summer squash, onions, garlic and corn. Other good flavour partners include basil, marjoram, olives, mozzarella, goat cheese, Parmesan and capers.

Yummy roasted red peppers

• red bell peppers
• olive oil
• garlic cloves
• chopped parsley
• salt and pepper

What to do;

Roast peppers until they have blackened spots, blisters and are tender. Place into a plastic bag and set aside to cool. Once cool remove the skin and seeds. Cut into strips. In a glass jar combine salt, pepper,olive oil, garlic and parsley. Add peppers and store in the fridge.

Great on pizza's, salads, in wraps or as a snack with a cheese platter.

Today I am grateful for;

• fab summer weather
• yesterday's yummy pizza
• my new laptop courtesy of the insurance :) and
• the mechanical mouse
• the conduit guys
• Pete's visit - was sooo scrumptious to see you
• my 2010 Kent calendar

This makes me smile

" When I think of how much I have to look forward to, I almost hyperventilate." - Mike Dooley.

Fabulous John Lennon Quote;

Time you enjoy wasting, was not wasted."

Wisdom Card Reading

I am a natural winner. I only listen to the winners - people who know what they are doing and who live a joyous, loving, prosperous life.

Love yourself, create your own paradise and throw in some ' spur of the moment fun' and live it........

Peace 'n whirlpools of luv

xxx