Global Bucket Gardens

Here is a video showing a foolproof method of gardening that is similar to the wonderful EarthBox method. The difference is the Global Bucket method uses locally sourced free or low cost materials, ideal for developing nations.

Like the EarthBox system, Global Buckets:

• Uses 80% less water than traditional gardens
• Reduces weeds by 100%
• Takes very little time or effort.

thought for the day;

“The full extent of the problem of hunger is not obvious to most of us. We see the homeless, but there are a great number of working poor, struggling to survive, who don’t have enough money to put adequate food on the table. We must find a solution to this ever-increasing problem — and quickly.” –  Scott Glenn

Ayurveda

Interesting video on Ayurveda versus Western Medicine Approaches to Health Care.

quote for the day;

When diet is wrong medicine is of no use.
When diet is correct medicine is of no need.
– Ayurvedic Proverb

Body Scrubs

I love sugar body scrubs! They make your skin feel so nice and soft.

Finger Labyrinths

The finger labyrinth is a wonderful way to experience the healing and spiritual benefits of the labyrinth.

The portability and accessibility of these smaller versions of the labyrinth allow us to carry them wherever we go. Regardless of location, weather conditions, health or mobility issues.

I have used mine when traveling, waiting to see my doctor, and during those long stopovers between flights. They are wonderful, easy to carry and ready for use 24 hours a day.

Finger labyrinths have been around for centuries and some of these were said to be carved on rock walls and small stones. They were used to lead one to a deeper understanding of the self and a closer relationship with the divine.

Labyrinths can be used by everyone, regardless of their religious beliefs, traditions or background. They are a universal spiritual tool.

The three stages of the Labyrinth;

• Releasing -Letting go of the details of your life. This is the act of releasing thoughts and distractions. A time to open the heart and quiet the mind.
• Receiving – When you reach the center, stay there as long as you like. It is a place of meditation and prayer. Receive what is there for you to receive.
• Returning – As you leave, following the same path out of the center as you came in, you enter the third stage, which is joining with the Divine, your Higher Power, or the healing forces at work in the world. Each time you walk the labyrinth you become more empowered to find and do the work you feel your soul reaching for.

I received my finger labyrinth as a gift several years ago and use it for relaxation and meditation. It was purchased from The Shop at Grace Cathedral in San Francisco.

I am also very fortunate to have a seven circuit labyrinth within walking distance of my home. I love it!

thought for the day;

” The great need of our time is for people to be connected to spirit; for people to be connected to a core of feeling in themselves that makes their lives vital and full of meaning, that makes life a mystery evermore to be uncovered.” – Harold Stone – Sandplay

Echinacea

When we practice the art of herbalism, we touch the heart of Gaia, mother earth and learn a unique way of communicating with plants.

I love the magical feeling of enjoying the smell of things growing in the soil, and the rich aroma of plants and flowers wafting throughout the garden.

As an Herbalist, I enjoy making tinctures and one of my favorites is echinacea. We use it to stimulate the immune system during the cold & flu season.

I use the dried roots of E. augustifolia roots when making my tincture.

I fill a quart jar about 1/3  full of dried, chopped echinacea roots. Next, I add enough menstruum (100 proof vodka) to fill the jar completely and seal with a tight fitting lid.

I label it with the date and ingredients and place the jar in a cool, dark place and shake the jar daily for two weeks, and then let it macerate for about a year. I make a batch each year, so that we have a continuous supply of echinacea tincture.

quote for the day;

“Native Americans learned of Echinacea angustifolia by observing elk seeking out the plants and consuming them when sick or wounded, and identified those plants as elk root.” – Wikipedia

Read Our Disclaimer

Please consult a licensed medical health care provider for your health care needs.

You should not use herbs in place of your normal medical care or take them with current prescriptions or medicines without first obtaining professional advice by consulting a trained medical practitioner or qualified herbalist. Herbs should not be taken while pregnant or breastfeeding without checking with your medical practitioner first.