Conscious Life Magazine ed 25 july

Conscious Life Magazine www.childoftheuniverse.co.za

ed’s letter Hello Conscious Life friends Firstly let’s pay our respects ABOUT US www.childoftheuniverse.co.za PUBLISHER 2Luni Media EDITOR Linda Navon 071 346 8138 linda@childoftheuniverse.co.za OUR “Little Boss” Carmen Ché Jardim SUB–EDITOR, NATIONAL SALES & MARKETING Cj Stott Matticks 082 900 1010 candida@childoftheuniverse.co.za ADVERTISING SALES Clint Stebbing 076 657 4139 clint@childoftheuniverse.co.za DISTRIBUTION & RESEARCH Lee Coulter WRITER Dani Jardim dani@childoftheuniverse.co.za CONTACT NUMBERS TEL: (011) 462-2900 0110 262 643 0110 468 737 DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this publication are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the editor, advertisers or endorsers. While every effort has been made to ensure that the contents of this publication are both accurate and truthful, the publisher and editor accept no responsibility for inaccurate or misleading information that may be contained herein.

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to Madiba with a big fat HAPPY BIRTHDAY! What will you be doing on Mandela Day? This month we feature the fantastic Johnny Clegg and the story of his successes – of which there are many. I am in total awe of this man, what an icon for our country.

We have included a YouTube clip of Johnny on stage with Nelson Mandela. Enjoy, may it bring a joyful tear to your eye!

For the past 5 years July has been ‘the dreaded month’ for me, as I lost my son in 2011, just 1 week after his 26th birthday. I was interviewed about loss and grief in a previous edition, and never actually read the article myself until last night. I have edited it and shared my journey with you. There is an old Buddhist saying that we should turn every tragic situation into something which can be celebrated. Along my journey back to life and clarity, I have launched Child of the Universe magazines.

This week I launched YOUTH OF THE NATION in honour of our youngsters. I believe our youth are in trouble generally with life and would like to use this magazine as a platform to make a difference. So to wrap July up, a very HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my son, Vincent, who would have been 31, and also a very BIG HAPPY BIRTHDAY to my daughter, Cj, who is my business partner, and my precious girl – the one I have screaming matches with during our deadlines as we both strive for perfection, in our different ways.

So my friends, please take care and remember that no matter what happens, there really is a ‘divine plan’ and you need to TRUST the process.

With much Love

Linda

Contributing Team & Experts

LISA RALEIGH

LOUISE L. HAY

HANNA KOK

SUE VISSER

ALANA JAMES

SERGIO SALOTTO

ANTHONY WILLIAM

LAUREN CORLETT

LINDA NAVON

Cj MATTICKS

DEBBIE ADLARD

ROSIE MOTENE

PAULA QUINSEE

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MARGI McALPINE

JUDY BEYER

PENNI DU PLESSIS

HALEY RITZLMAYR

ANJI WOODLEY

HEATHER PICTON

NICK ORTNER

Conscious Life Magazine

Johnny Clegg Johnny Clegg just completed a 36 show tour of USA and Canada, travelling 17,000 miles in 42 days in March & April 2016.

On Friday 12th June 2015, Queen Elizabeth II honoured Johnny Clegg with the Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).

British High Commissioner to South Africa, Mrs. Judith Macgregor said: “This is a recognition of Johnny’s unique services to the Arts, vulnerable people and children and to democracy in South Africa. I am particularly pleased that we are able to celebrate his achievements of the past three decades. We continue to work with Johnny and others to ensure that the positive change that they have secured will continue to have long-lasting impact on generations to come.”

On hearing the news, Johnny Clegg said: “It’s a tremendous moment for me to receive this honour and acknowledgement expressed in this award.

It has been a long journey of more than 30 years, from when I first began to experiment with truly South African cross-over music, and at the same time becoming a cultural activist in the struggle against apartheid.

Our music was banned or restricted on national radio, as well as shows being closed down from time to time by apartheid’s security police; we were faced with many obstacles that we had to contend with.

Having worked with The End Conscription Campaign, the Trade Union Movement and the Free the Children in Detention Campaign, resisting forced removals of rural communities, fund raising for the United Democratic Front amongst other progressive causes, this award reenergises those dreams and commitments in a very special way.”

Standard Bank Joy of Jazz honoured Juluka with an award on Saturday 6th September 2014 in recognition of the contributions Juluka made as musicians.

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On 28th August 2014, Minister of Arts and Culture Mr. Nathi Mthethwa Honoured Johnny Clegg with an award for the contribution he made in the South African Music Industry, as a Musician.

Over Johnny’s 40 year career he released two dozen albums and in early 2014 he released a new unplugged album from his sold out shows at The Baxter Theatre in September 2013, titled JOHNNY CLEGG BEST, LIVE and UNPLUGGED. Johnny Clegg has sold more than five million albums worldwide. He has wowed audiences with his live shows, including performances with Nelson Mandela, and won a number of national and international awards for his music and for his outspoken views on apartheid and migrant workers in South Africa.

Johnny Clegg is a dancer, anthropologist, singer, songwriter, academic, activist and French knight. Whilst all of these tags are fitting, none of them can accurately describe the energetic, passionate human being who has become one of South Africa's greatest musical exports. He has campaigned against the injustice of apartheid South Africa and been instrumental in putting the new South Africa on the map as a cultural ambassador. Clegg is an icon of South African music.

He has been awarded three honorary doctorates from Dartmouth College, CUNY and University of the Witwatersrand, and on Freedom day, the 27th of April 2012, Johnny Clegg received the presidential IKHAMANGA award as part of the National Orders ceremony. The National Orders are the highest honour a citizen can receive for his/her contribution to South Africa.

With a career spanning 40 years, Johnny Clegg, one of South Africa’s most prolific musicians and performers is no stranger to the music industry, with over two dozen albums released.

During the three decades he's been making anthemic hits, Johnny has proved himself to be an outstanding musical ambassador for his country and is known for his energetic stage performances. By combining African music structures with Celtic folk music and international rock sounds, Johnny pioneered a new and unique sound, establishing himself as South Africa’s biggest musical export. From Europe to the States, from Australia to Potchefstroom, audiences in sold out venues have danced to “Cruel, Crazy Beautiful World”, “Scatterlings of Africa”, “I Call Your Name”, “Impi”, “Great Heart”, and “African Sky Blue”.

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Johnny Clegg is a patron of the Paleontological Scientific Trust (PAST) which is a non-profit organisation dedicated to the preservation, protection and promotion of Africa's ancient natural and cultural heritage for the benefit of Africans and humankind in its entirety.

Johnny Clegg performed his highly acclaimed A SOUTH AFRICAN STORY at the Royal Albert Hall on Wednesday 27th March 2013. This story covers Johnny’s life through his music, and is an inspiring and uplifting voyage.

Johnny was the first Solo South African act to ever perform at The Royal Albert Hall. Says Johnny Clegg: "The Royal Albert Hall is a very prestigious venue and the last time I played there, I was a support act for Steve Winwood in 1989. It's with great excitement and anticipation that I look forward to headlining my own show in this venue some 23 years later."

On 16th April 2014 Johnny Clegg was honoured by the University Of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) with an Honorary Doctor of Music degree. “His musical career demonstrates pride in the African heritage and his role is pioneering in its mediation between pervasive power asymmetries imbued by modernity to Africa and South Africa in particular…….. Through his musical talent, musical performances and anthropological research, articulated the dynamicity of both industrial and changing Zulu culture in the contemporary era. His pioneering scholarly research has delved into the most contentious issues of Zulu cultural adaption, including adaptive social performance practices and indigenous forms of conflict resolution.

Clegg – who campaigned against the injustices of apartheid and was instrumental in putting the new South Africa on the world map - has performed at all four of Nelson Mandela’s 46664 Aids Awareness Concerts in South Africa and Norway.”

In 2015, Henley Business School announced the opening of acceptances for the scholarship of the two year Johnny Clegg Music and Creative MBA; the creative programme is a world first.

The programme will develop and grow the skills of current and future creative and music industry leaders as well as innovators and entrepreneurs in any industry or walk of life.

On the 28th September 2012 Johnny Clegg performed for Prince Albert, The Sovereign Prince of Monaco and Princess Charlene in Monte Carlo, to standing ovations.

Conscious Life Magazine

On 27th April 2012 (Freedom Day), Johnny Clegg was Awarded the Order of Ikhamanga for his excellent contribution to and achievement in the field of bridging African traditional music with other music forms, promoting racial understanding among racially divided groups in South Africa under difficult apartheid conditions, working for a non-racial society and being an outstanding spokesperson for the release of political prisoners.

National Orders are the highest awards that a country bestows, through the President of the Republic of South Africa, upon citizens and members of the international community who have contributed meaningfully towards making the country a free, democratic and successful nation, united in its diversity.

Johnny’s last studio album. Human, was released in SA in September 2011.

Johnny Clegg’s 30th Anniversary concerts in Johannesburg in November 2011 and Cape Town in August 2011 were sold out.

The original Juluka band was reunited for these shows, and the hit songs of Juluka and Johnny Clegg which spanned his 30 year career were performed to an emotionally ecstatic crowd.

In the first half of 2010 Johnny recorded a 13 part documentary series, A Country Imagined, for SABC2 which was broadcast in mid 2010 with a re-broadcast currently being screened.

In June 2010, Johnny released the ultimate collection of songs, Spirit is the Journey celebrating 30 years of Johnny Clegg. This 30th Anniversary compilation is a double cd of his best-loved songs combined with an exclusive DVD entitled “My Favourite Zulu Street Guitar Songs”, which includes Johnny’s personal take on the various traditional street guitar songs that influenced him, what they mean to him and then performing them acoustically with some of his hostel mates. The DVD is a rare look inside Johnny’s musical mind and completely exclusive to this release.

Conscious Life Magazine

On 27th April 2012 (Freedom Day), Johnny Clegg was Awarded the Order of Ikhamanga for his excellent contribution to and achievement in the field of bridging African traditional music with other music forms, promoting racial understanding among racially divided groups in South Africa under difficult apartheid conditions, working for a non-racial society and being an outstanding spokesperson for the release of political prisoners.

National Orders are the highest awards that a country bestows, through the President of the Republic of South Africa, upon citizens and members of the international community who have contributed meaningfully towards making the country a free, democratic and successful nation, united in its diversity.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MADIBA.

WE SALUTE YOU AND HONOUR YOUR LIFE. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE HELD FONDLY IN OUR HEARTS AND MISSED FOR AN ETERNITY.

Conscious Life Magazine

History

JOHNNY CLEGG, born in Rochdale, England in 1953 was raised in his mother’s native land of Zimbabwe before immigrating to South Africa at the age of nine.

At the age of 14, Johnny began to learn to play the guitar. Through his interest he met CHARLIE MZILA, a Zulu flat cleaner who played street music near Clegg’s home. For two years Johnny learned the fundamentals of Zulu music and traditional Zulu INHLANGWINI dancing with Charlie. He was 13 years old when he saw the dancers for the first time.

Equipped with his guitar, Johnny accompanied Mzila to all the migrant labour haunts – from hostels to rooftop shebeens.

However, Johnny’s involvement with black musicians often led to him being arrested for trespassing on government property and for contravening the Group Areas Act, (an apartheid law forcing different races to keep to their own residential and recreational areas).

In this difficult and complex political landscape, Johnny managed to navigate a path, which enabled him to enter the hidden world of the Zulu migrant labourers. These men lived in a number of huge barrack-like hostels around Johannesburg, serving Johannesburg’s insatiable appetite for cheap black labour.

During this period he developed a reputation as a competent Zulu guitarist in the MASIKANDE (from the Afrikaans “Musikant”) tradition.

This reputation reached the ears of SIPHO MCHUNU, a migrant Zulu worker who had come up to Johannesburg in 1969 looking for work.

Intrigued he challenged Johnny to a guitar competition, sparking off a friendship and musical partnership destined to alter the face of South African music.

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Sipho was born in Kranskop, Natal, in 1951.

Although he had no musical training as a young boy, he had made himself a variety of musical instruments; his favourite being a three stringed guitar fashioned out of a paraffin tin.

Soon he became extremely adept and well versed in Zulu street guitar music. He later also formed a traditional Zulu dance team and found a vast outlet for his creative energies. Sipho investigated this young white boy who danced and also played Zulu street music and looked him up at his apartment one day. A strong friendship developed out of this meeting as for the first time Johnny was playing with a street musician his own age. Johnny was sixteen and Sipho eighteen.

Together they worked, often subjected to racial abuse, threats of violence and police harassment. As places where they could perform were limited by the apartheid laws, they had to stick to the street and private venues such as church and university halls.

When Johnny finished his schooling he went to University, graduating with a BA (Hons) in Social Anthropology and pursued an academic career for four years lecturing at the University of the Witwatersrand and the University of Natal.

In 1976 Johnny and Sipho secured a major recording deal and had their first hit sing entitled, “Woza Friday”.

A period of development followed, during which Johnny worked on the concept of bringing together English lyrics and Western melodies with Zulu musical structures. The formation of JULUKA, meaning “sweat” in Zulu, was in total contravention of the Cultural Segregation laws of the time, which emphasized the separation of language, race and culture. (Juluka was the name of Sipho’s favourite bull, because like all migrants, Sipho practiced some cattle farming in the rural areas). Their music was subjected to censorship and banning and their only way to access an audience was through live touring.

In late 1979 their first album “Universal Men” was released.

Johnny Clegg and Sipho Mchunu launched their second album “African Litany” in early 1981. Although their work had been largely ignored by the South African Broadcasting Corporation due to Juluka’s mixing of languages and African and Western music forms, “African Litany” became a major breakthrough Album for the band through word of mouth and live performances. “Ubuhle Bemvelo” was their immediate follow-up Album and was entirely in the Zulu language, but mixing Western and African styles of music.

In 1982 and ’83, Juluka toured the USA, Canada, the UK, Germany and Scandinavia. In 1983 they released “Work for All” and in late 1984 they released “Musa Ukungilandela”.

Juluka split in 1985 – Sipho went back to his farm in Zululand where he was born.

In 1986, Johnny went on to form another crossover band “SAVUKA” (We have risen), mixing African music with Celtic folk music and international rock sounds, and the album “3rd World Child” was borne. In 1987 SAVUKA was the leading world music group touring the francophone countries.

Three years later, Savuka’s hard work and tenacity had finally paid off and the band was reaping its rewards, with an ever growing fan base and phenomenal album sales! By the end of 1989 Savuka had sold over 1 million copies of their debut album, and their 2nd release had already sold over 700 000 units. The band’s popularity was reflected in the music charts, and in an incredible moment on the album and singles charts, SAVUKA held the #1 and #2 position on the album charts with the 1st and second album at the same time, and on the singles charts held the #1 and #7 position with their singles " Asimbonanga " and "Scatterlings of Africa". In 1993 Savuka received the recognition they deserved by being nominated for a Grammy Award for Best World Music Album.

This was a momentous achievement for the group out of South Africa and in 1990 they received the "Victoires" award from the French recording industry for the biggest selling international artists over two years. They also received in that year the world music award for the biggest selling world music group internationally. In 1990 they completed a nine-month world tour and in 1991 took off six months to rest.

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SAVUKA went to record their fourth album and this, their last album was nominated for a Grammy Award for the best world music album in 1993. The band broke up in 1994.

Johnny and Sipho began looking at reforming JULUKA. This came to fruition in 1996 when they went into the studio and they commenced recording “YA VUKA INKUNZI”. Johnny Clegg continues to collaborate with Sipho Mchunu from time to time.

In October 2002 Johnny Clegg released a new solo CD titled “New World Survivor”, and completed a very successful run of a theatre show, A South African Story, in South Africa playing to over 40,000 people in Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town.

In July 2003, Johnny Clegg embarked on a very successful tour of France and Germany. At one festival, 140km north of Paris, Johnny Clegg played to 60,000 people, breaking all previous attendance records for this biennial event. In Germany, Johnny blew the crowds away and had to perform no less than three encores for the enthralled crowd before they would leave.

Early 2004 saw Johnny Performing A South African Story Part II, to sell out audiences in South Africa. He then embarked on a successful three month tour of Europe and USA. Johnny released his much awaited new album “One Life” in 2006, which features his first ever Zulu-Afrikaans crossover song as well as the first song (ever?) written in three languages French, Zulu and English. One life is an album containing both political and personal songs.

Johnny says, “We are all given one life which is precious and unique. At the same time, all Life on the planet is inter -linked and connected into a single planetary force. The private and political choices we make affect how our ONE LIFE influences the greater whole and so the songs look at the politics of betrayal, love, power, masculinity, the feminine, and survival/work.

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Our one life is connected to the One Life. We each have a story to tell and many of the songs take on a narrative structure to emphasize the story telling nature of how we make meaning in the world. Sometimes this is in the first person, sometimes as a report.“ 2006 saw Johnny performing sold out “One Life” concerts across the country. He was backed by the Soweto Gospel Choir on the shows at the Nelson Mandela Theatre - these shows were recorded, and later released as a Live CD and DVD “Johnny Clegg Live at the Nelson Mandela Theatre”.

In the same year, Johnny also launched his community website www.scatterlingsclub.com which features a monthly newsletter from Johnny, a series of documentary DVD’s on Zulu Guitar music, Zulu war dancing, many other cultural artifacts from Zulu fighting sticks, pots and other items which shape Johnny Clegg’s life as well as all the standard CD’s, DVD’s, T-shirts, caps, jackets and other products related to his music – some of which are only available from this website.

Johnny is known for his live and energetic stage performances, and in 2008 he produced a new show “HEART OF THE DANCER” which looked at the role of dance in Clegg’s career and how certain songs were shifted towards choreographic presentations when they were played live. It also looked at the history of one particular dance that became widely used in the JULUKA and SAVUKA periods. Once again these shows were sold out and extra shows had to be added!

JOHNNY CLEGG - SOUTH AFRICAN AWARDS & HONOURS 1986 1987 1987 1988 1988 1989 1990 1999 2000 – 2006 2007 2007 2008 2012 2013

Scotty Award: Master Music Maker Communication Contribution Award The Autumn Harvest Music Personality Award OK TV Best Pop Music Award CCP Record Special Award: In recognition of exceptional achievement in promotion of South African music internationally Radio 5 – Loud & Proud Award – South African Music Ambassador of the Year FOYSA Award (Four Outstanding South Africans) Junior Chamber of Commerce Avanti Award – Best Music Video “Crocodile Love” NOT UPDATED South African Music Award for Best Adult Contemporary Album Awarded an Honorary Doctorate from WITS University.

2008 SAMA Nomination for Best Live DVD. Awarded The Order of Ikhamanga Honorary Doctor of Music degree (University of KwaZulu-Natal)

JOHNNY CEGG - INTERNATIONAL AWARDS 1988 1988 sold in 1989 1990 – 1991 1990 1991 1994 1998 1999 – 2010 2011 2012 2014 2015

The Mayor’s Office of Los Angeles Award: For the promotion of racial harmony Le Victoire French Music Industry Award for biggest International record album France between 1987 and 1988 Honorary Citizen of the town of Angouleme, France French Music Industry Award for the biggest selling African record album in France Humanitarian Award : Secretary of State Ohio, USA Awarded the Chevalier des Arts et Lettres (Knight of Arts and Letters) by the Government of France Billboard Music Award “ Best World Music Album KORA Award : Best African Group NOT UPDATED Honorary Doctorate of Law degree from CUNY (City University of NY) Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from Dartmouth College (USA) The Brand Laureate Award for Brand Personality (Asia) Most Excellent Order of the British Empire by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

Conscious Life Magazine

My Journeys with Vincent Is There Life After Losing a Child?

Vincent was the heart and soul of my life, always up to some mischief and terrifying me by living on the edge.

His flame burned so hot, but it burned for such a short time.

By Linda Navon I vaguely heard my phone beep a message in the night. I think it was around 04h30. I reckoned that it was Vincent and his wife, Christy, getting home as I had asked them to text me when they got in. So I went back into a peaceful sleep without reading the message. When I woke the next morning, I saw that it was a ‘please call me’ from Christ. Vincent had not arrived home after they left the club which they had gone to after my daughter’s birthday party. They had travelled in separate cars and Vincent took his own route but never got home. Candida’s 30th birthday party was a themed ‘Down the Rabbit Hole’, everyone dressed up and all the guys went as Mad Hatters.

Very soon Candida and I started phoning around to try find Vincent. We checked hospitals, police stations and eventually tried the morgues, which were closed on a Sunday. I was supposed to be going off to do my 67 minutes for Mandela Day (it fell on a Sunday that year, 2011, same as it does this year 2016), but that very quickly went out the window. I popped a few messages on Facebook to the effect that Vincent is AWOL, and asked if anyone had perhaps allowed Vincent to cool off on their couches.

His friends started to phone and the worry increased. This date was Sunday, 17 July 2011 and it is indelible in my mind. My brother was also on his phone trying to locate Vincent through all his connections. It seemed everyone was on the hunt for him. I secretly hoped that Vincent was just having ‘a moment’ and would pitch up shortly. No-one on Facebook knew where he was either.

By now the whole family was together, since we had organised a braai at the house to further celebrate Candida’s birthday. Her family from Cape Town were visiting with us. As I sat there phoning around, and looking at the preparations going on in the lapa next to the pool, I just knew something was very wrong. The thought crossed my mind that if something had happened to Vincent, then at least the whole family would be together for strength.

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(THIS IS THE LAST PHOTO TAKEN OF VINCENT AND I TOGETHER – JUST HOURS BEFORE HIS ACCIDENT) Around midday I popped over to the Spar to get some supplies for the braai, and standing there in the store I suddenly felt like throwing up, and left without buying anything. I went back to my partner’s restaurant and whilst sitting there I received a call from the daughter of a friend who the SAPS had contacted. Apparently their address was registered in his ID book as he used to live with them at one point in his life.

Megan wasn’t making much sesnse on the phone, just something about the police calling and someone passing. It took her what felt like 20 years to find the cop’s number for me. I then handed the phone to the restaurant chef to speak to the cop in his own language, and as I watched him trying to spell the word ‘Hillbrow’, my world turned dark, and all hell broke loose.

The first call I had to make thereafter was to Vincent’s father, who was totally oblivious that his son was missing. I had put off calling him for a while still. He had not been with us at the party the night before. I remember sitting on the grass on the pavement in front of the carpark and calling Eddy, and to this day I will never forget the shock and pain that came over the line.

I went into ‘zombie mode’ and tried to get the girls to quieten down as the restaurant patrons were all watching these proceedings. My next call was to my brother Robert, who I had to tell that we had found Vincent… in the morgue. All I wanted then was my brother, who shot through to Joburg in a flash.

The next few hours were a blur of all the family guys going through to Hillbrow and insisting on confirming that it was indeed my son lying on that cold slab. Noone says NO to my brother.. They returned with the few belonging that Vincent had on him, minus his shoes and some jewellery – yow, you would think that people would not steal from the dead!

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Candida and Vincent on stage at Cool Running with their band called Child of Ash

Someone called the family doctor for sedatives and my daughter-in-law at that point said that she should not take anything as she suspected that she was pregnant. PREGNANT! Two days later we confirm that there was indeed a little light at the end of a very long tunnel. The idea that a part of my son was going to be born, kept me from either taking my own life or going totally insane.

People deal with tragedies in mysterious ways, some don’t want to know too much, while I am the type of person who wanted every last detail.

I remember the chaotic feelings and emotional denials. How could this happen? What happened, when did it happen?

Since Vincent was the 2nd car to hit the overturned vehicle on a dark stretch of the highway, we were able to ascertain that he died at 4.17am. Chatting to my sister a little later in the night, she told us that her then 3 year old had sat up at that exact time, vomited over the edge of her bed, and gone back to sleep. She is a very tuned in little girl – what you may refer to as a Crystal child with psychic abilities.

The bottom fell out of my world and the next few years dragged by in a blur. It was so surreal, like a concrete tube had descended around me and I was emotionally unavailable. Don’t get me wrong, I cried buckets of tears in my more lucid moments, but I generally wandered through life for the next few months, until my grand daughter was born.

‘They’ say that when a person is a dire situation you either fall into FIGHT or FLIGHT. I did neither, and only later learnt that there is the FREEZE reaction as well. One counselor I consulted with told me that my Soul is broken and she couldn’t work with me…. I still wonder about that statement, as I have never felt like a ‘complete’ person again.

If this article seems a bit jumbled it’s because I am reading and editing this interview that was done by Hilda de la Rosa in our 13th edition. This is the first time I am reading it, so I am adding details as I go along. I am ready to share my story now.

Vincent’s funeral was large. There were so many people. Eddy was in charge of who carried Vincent into the church and out again – there were men from both sides of the family. I was told later that I didn’t cry during the funeral, just carried on with the motions. I had sunk below the surface of human feelings. I was not even in a position to think what impact this would have on Vincent’s sister, Candida. I knew she was suffering as much as I was, but it seemed that my heart was just too full of sadness to be able to offer her any real comfort. Candida and Vincent had enjoyed a very close relationship and he often turned to her when he was in trouble. They played in a band together and moved in the same circle of friends. She is missing Vincent more than we know. She is a strong power-girl, someone we all go to when we need advice or just to laugh. She is especially missing her almost daily interactions with her brother.

On the Monday after the funeral, I went back to work. Actually I did not go to work at all. My body just showed up there. I was numb. I could not process that the world just kept on turning and life just seemed to be continuing at its own relentless pace. There seemed to be no tomorrows for me. There was only pain, sadness and a hollow feeling inside me that nothing could fill.

I don’t remember all the people who called or visited to pay their respects, but I do recall thanking them and saying that there are just ‘no words’ but the gestures were appreciated. Three years later…There are still no words. No words that could comfort, or alleviate what I am feeling. I have a massive emptiness inside of me – a big void.

This was Vincent’s corner in the garden, the quiet space where we all added something to decorate the space. My little nieces hung their necklaces on the tree. It was a peaceful retreat, especially at night, alight with lanterns and candles.

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At some point I had the overwhelming need to find out what Vincent was listening to on his last journey on this planet. Everyone around me thought I had gone crazy. Leighton took me to the car Vincent’s had been driving. There was so much broken glass. I just remember all the glass – shattered, like my life. I found a lone beer glass. The only piece of glass that was unbroken.

I took a part of the steering wheel home. I thought that perhaps this was the part that had impacted Vincent when he crashed.

The first time I went to see the car at the pound I was alone, and I wanted to sit in the seat where he had died. Crazy but not crazy… whatever!

We used a crowbar to pry the radio out of the dashboard and once it was out I retrieved a CD the last sounds that my beloved son heard. I found two of Vincent’s teeth, Christy’s ring and other bits and pieces. I was gathering the last pieces of my son’s life, including his entire CD collection, most of which has now been shared by us three women in his life.

I have kept the clothes that Vincent wore on his last journey – his shorts, the long pants and the army socks. I still sleep in them, especially in July, so you can all guess what I will be wearing on the night of the 16th of July… Vincent's army socks!

The shirt he died in was full of blood, and after trying to wash it out it was so faded that we dried it, and one evening we all sat around the fire and burned his shirt. Passing bits around the fire and wishing Vincent all the best. We have a very non-conservative family to say the least, we were never brought up with any religious guidance, but we all believe in a Higher Power and that when you die, you are not really gone.

The bloody water from his shirt was ceremonially poured on the ground in a special place in the garden. That became Vincent’s corner – a quiet space that we could all go to and feel a little closer to him. We decorated the area with flowers, beads from the kids, glitter on the ground and many little precious things. Most of us went there everyday. It was just outside my bedroom so I felt some comfort, plus I had collected his ashes and they are still always close by.

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Vincent had taught himself to play the guitar at a very young age. He was good at it and become an accomplished and versatile guitarist. This was his passion - his music and his collection of guitars. Candida is a singer and Vincent used to play lead guitar in her band called ‘Child of Ash’.

After he died I took his Ovation guitar, which I had watched and listened to him playing for many, many hours, days and years. It stands in my bedroom along with his ashes to this day.

Candida has the Studio guitar, Christy has an electric guitar and the amp, and one and his dear friends, Ryan, has one, which he had framed and is hanging on his wall at home – forever reminding him of our Vincent.

Christy spent most of her pregnancy with her parents in Mozambique, but returned to South Africa to get ready for the birth. So many people had rallied around to help her prepare for the arrival of her and Vincent’s baby.

She was pretty much set up with everything before Carmen Ché duly arrived – a little early – in a hurry, just like her daddy. I was in the theatre for the birth and what an honour that was to cut the cord and hand Vincent’s daughter to her Mommy. This was definitely one of the most overwhelming moments of my life and I am thankful that I was blessed with the opportunity to be there when my son’s daughter came into this world.

I will never ever forget that feeling – a feeling of hope and connection. Unforgettable it was.

Vincent had been a Montessori student and I witnessed how the “Montessorians’ brought out the best in him. When he was going through a tough time in ‘normal’ school, who wanted to put him on drugs so that he could be manageable in the class I basically told them to f-off and put him into the Montessori Academy in Pretoria, with Glen in charge… that woman was one of the biggest blessings in my son’s life.

He learnt to trust in himself again and found his self-esteem.

I liked their philosophy and approached the then CEO, Sharon Caldwell, to find out if the Montessori Association of SA (SAMA) had an official Montessori magazine. She loved the idea and immediately gave me her full co-operation and support. The name was inspired by a song

by Barkley James Harvest – Child of the Universe, which you can click and listen to on the website.

Child of the Universe is dedicated to the memory of Vincent and our real CEO is little Carmen Ché, who has been featured on many covers over the years. She motivates me to be the best I can possibly be and to produce a magazine that will inspire and encourage the teachers at Montessori and the Montessori moms and dads.

A magazine that will make a difference in people’s lives. A magazine that supports living a conscious, healthy lifestyle and this includes integrity on all levels. Being associated with Montessori South Africa has certainly opened some doors for Child of the Universe. I published the first edition in September 2012.

After Carmen’s birth, it was time for reevaluation. What would I do with my life? What could I do to honour my journey and the life of my son? I knew that I could never again work for someone else. I needed to dance to the rhythm of my own drum. I took stock of what I knew and wondered how I could use that knowledge to create a business for myself. Child of the Universe was conceived. I was planning on studying to be a Montessori teacher so I combined my own interest in Montessori with my skills in digital marketing, advertising sales, and taught myself the rest.

Conscious Life Magazine

Child of the Universe has continued to grow, and we now have 4 online magazines. My daughter has joined me in the business and between us we pull together our monthly magazines. We encourage and inspire people to be better parents and be happier healthier, more earth-conscious readers.

I am now beginning to learn to cope again. It has been five years since Vincent’s untimely death. I am learning to ‘eat this elephant in little bites’, and also to be gentle with myself.

The hardest thing to cope with is that he’s never gonna walk through that door again with that big, naughty grin on his face and asking for petrol money - as usual. That boy had me wrapped tightly around his little finger!

Vincent lived on the edge. He was always game for an adventure and didn’t want to miss out on anything. He liked people and they were drawn to him in return. His whole life was lived to the maximum. He was fearless. Trouble seemed to find him, even when he was laughing in its face.

Flames that burn so hot never seem to burn for very long... He did some silly things.

My future is connected to Carmen’s, and that is how it should be. I want to be available to both Christy and Carmen, to help where I can financially and be a part of Carmen’s childhood years. Christy has been to hell and back, she is young and still has the guts to fight for what she wants.

Conscious Life Magazine

I have 3 girls in my life – all Cj’s: Candida Julia, Christy Jardim and of course Carmen Jardim.

Together we will pull through, its not always easy but we are a family. We have had some very rough times though somehow manage to keep our relationships intact. Christy is now dating one of my son’s friends, who loves both the girls very much.

Carmen is a well-adjusted, highly intelligent and captivating child. When she was younger than 3 she used to tell us that her Daddy used to talk to her in her sleep. She told us things about Vincent that she could not possibly have known, other than directly from him. She passed us a few messages from him from time to time. Now that she is growing up, that psychic connection seems to be fading. She is loved by so many people, lacks for nothing and has travelled more than most people my age! She loves to act and dance and manages to pull of pranks with a straight face – her sense of humour comes from all sides of our combined families.

For many years I lived in anxiety, with this constant feeling that there was a large boulder in my chest – and I do need to re-assure others who have lost loved ones, that time certainly helps you put things into perspective. Somehow we learn to live without our precious lost ones. I know that Vincent is around, we have all experienced definite signs, and it’s comforting to know that he is watching over us. He is here, just not in the physical sense. I do believe in a higher power and I know that Vincent’s spirit is always near. I know he is safe and happy where he is now, and that we will meet again.

Through all of this loss and pain I learnt TRUST & FAITH. Trust that our Creator knows what He is doing and faith that everything happens at exactly the right time. However awful it may be.

We talk to Carmen about her Dada often and she knows her daddy is in heaven. We share our special moments with her and show her pictures and videos of her dad. When she was around 2 years old, she pointed to a car that looked exactly like Vincent’s and said, “Daddy’s car”. We don't really know where she got that from. We don’t question it.

What gives me a sense of equilibrium is knowing that I have a mission. I have a great deal I still have to achieve. Making Child of the Universe a magical magazine is one of them. I also know that this magazine can be produced anywhere in the world, and I plan on travelling and helping other people. I have a path that I am meant to follow, and I am going to go where I am needed - I am completely selfsufficient and self-supporting and can work from anywhere in the world. My dreams are now becoming my reality.

My advice to parents who are going through this pain is to try to avoid taking any medication to “help you cope”. All this does is defer or mask the pain and makes you dependent. I have been through it all, the medical profession loves to use you as a guinea pig and I have now had enough… on to natural remedies and support. Take your time. Get over this at your own pace. There is no-one who can explain to you how long this should take. And there is no particular order that you need to follow.

Mourning the death of a child is the most difficult thing to face. Be kind and gentle to yourself. And if you need help – there is so much available out there – reach out and find someone you would like to work things through with. Call us, we can recommend a whole whack of people as well as discuss the various healing modalities.

In a nutshell, I lived through years of self-destructive behaviour. 15 months ago I gave up looking at the world through copious bottles of red wine. My family have encircled me and my daughter has mollycoddled me throughout her own grief. My ex-husband (not Vincent’s father) is always here for me. This year I know I am healing, I am achieving things that I had no interest in doing in the past, and I am learning to live in gratitude. I am living in the NOW! I am trusting the process of my journey though it is one that I would never wish on anyone else. You should never have to outlive your children.

There is life after losing a loved one, I have come to terms with it and am focusing on looking forward, while still cherishing all the memories of Vincent. After all, I have had the pleasure of sharing my life with Vincent twice, once as my baby brother, and then as my son. He clearly had not completed his journey on this earth with me. This train of thought may completely freak you out, but I will save it for another day.

This month my son would have been 31 years old, and it feels like just that other day that I was chasing him around to change his poo-bum!

Cherish your children, that’s all I can say.

Blessings Linda Conscious Life Magazine

What does it mean to be pure spirit? When we are pure spirit, we are pure in heart. We are at the highest level of our being and at the highest state of love. In this space, we find our true happiness. We are living in our truth and we are able to spread loving kindness to others no matter their regard toward us. We are unaffected by the fears and rejections of the world. The world is a wonderful, lovely place dear ones. You just have to find your true spirit and live in full happiness.

You’re spiritual wellness is your personal matter involving your values and beliefs. Let go and hug compassion. Embrace compassion for people, animals, and the environment. Within compassion and altruism we discover a love of ourselves and for all. The light energy within us is shining and making our lives and the world a better place. I know it’s not easy to be in this state every single minute of every day, but each day we can practice moments of self-reflection and inner peace.

You are a shining light of love dear ones. Living in spirit releases the limitations you hold on yourself. No matter how difficult things may be, when you’re at the center of your being, you are safe and whole. True beauty lies within you. Take time in your day to sit with yourself. Close your eyes and dive deep within to rest with your light. This is a safe place. This is a peaceful place. Your light is always there.

When we stay closer and closer to this shining spirit of ours, we spread the love without knowing it. When you’re loving yourself, others can feel this energy radiating from you.

Let’s affirm: I let my whole being vibrate with light.

I am absolutely glowing with this beautiful colored light, which is my love and healing energy. I let the light radiate from me into my special place in the world.

ARCHANGEL ZADKIEL

By Margi McAlpine Archangel Zadkiel works with the Golden, Silver, Violet flame which was returned to earth for mankind to utilise by the intercession of St Germaine. By using this very powerful energy, you are able to transmute anything that is negative in your life including things that are happening to the planet. Transmutation means that you are able to turn a negative into a positive. By saying the Violet Flame decrees regularly, we are able to release our negative karma and transmute it into love and light.

In this way you are able to rid yourself of any negative karma that you might still be carrying which accelerates your Ascension process. This in turn accelerates the Ascension process of the planet and all of mankind.

Each morning, ask Archangel Zadkiel to pour his violet light of transmutation into your aura, filling you with positivity, joy and tolerance as well as unconditional love and forgiveness.

Thank him that your life is filled with light and abundance which you have activated by living in absolute gratitude and bliss. Thank him for transmuting your negative karma which allows you to live as an Ascended Master in training.

Conscious Life Magazine

At this important and auspicious time in planet Earth’s history, Archangel Zadkiel allows us to transmute our old energies into the new energies that will be needed in this new dispensation. Simply ask to be taken to his Etheric retreat over Cuba, in your sleep at night and ask that his Angels of Transmutation work on you and your energies, enabling you to release without hesitation, all of the old and be completely filled with the wonderful new energies that they are waiting to give you. In this way you will be ready for all the exciting and new possibilities that are being brought in.

Archangel Zadkiel is also known as the Angel of Freedom. By learning to forgive unconditionally you secure your individual freedom and thereby the freedom of the planet, for everything you do has an impact on those around you, as well as Mother Earth. This should not only apply to forgiving others, but most importantly to forgiving yourself as well. There are no degrees of forgiveness. It has to be all or nothing.

Allow the Angels to create miracles in your life by calling on them to assist you.

Zadkiel says: “When you invoke the light of the Golden, Silver, Violet-Flame legions, know that millions of Angels of the seventh ray respond to your call immediately. We see the rise, the fall and the ebb of the tide of world karma daily, as Keepers of the Flame worldwide invoke the Golden, Silver, Violet flame and therefore mitigate the effects of mass karma�

We can also request that this powerful energy is sent to others, places or the planet so that they too can receive this healing and release.

Angel light and blessings Margi McAlpine

Angel Connection

Conscious Life Magazine

PLANETARY MOVEMENTS The energies are shifting in a new direction as of 6 June 2016, as a result of Neptune having gone retrograde a few days ago. This means that our connection with Spirit through our intuition will become stronger, and more on point.

For the next 5 months, we will be guided to go deep within ourselves and do the inner healing work that will continue to clear the path to the highest vision we would like to create for our lives.

If we've been in unhealthy relationships, or have created a type of debt/imbalance in our finances... the energies these coming months will not allow us to ignore these imbalances anymore. We will be guided to actually 'do' something about restoring the balance in a big way. So get ready!

This is also a time of getting clear on what is truly important to us. Are we sharing our gifts and talents openly in a way that feels satisfying? Are we being our most authentic and honest self in the world? Are will aligning with our bliss? This is the time to reflect on these areas of our lives, and then take action towards anchoring them in our lives.

With love, Emmanuel — with Adriana Onisor.

Conscious Life Magazine

with Penni du Plessis Divine Space

RED

Red is a strong high impact primary colour and it is also an emotionally intense colour. It is the lowest of the seven colours in the visible spectrum and is known as a ‘warm’ colour. It is the first colour you lose sight of at twilight.

What is interesting about red is how it has two almost direct opposite associations - passion and aggression.

Its effect is physical; it stimulates us and raises the pulse rate, giving the impression that time is passing faster than it is. It can activate the "fight or flight" instinct.

It can be stimulating, lively and very friendly. At the same time, it can be perceived as imperious and belligerent.

DECORATING WITH RED: It can be used in any activity area but red needs careful choice of tone and depth and the space in which it is to be used as it can make a space look smaller and can be claustrophobic or oppressive. However, used well, red and its variations, can make a space feel warm and comfortable.

The best rooms to include the colour red would be your kitchen and dining rooms; as red stimulates the appetite and encourages the body’s ability to metabolise the food consumed.

Should you wish to encourage a busy and dynamic social life, then include this colour in your entertainment areas. Avoid using this colour in the bedroom, as it is energising, and the occupant would find it difficult to relax and sleep peacefully.

RED IN BUSINESS: Red can be used to stimulate people to make quick decisions. It is a perfect colour for 'Buy Now' or 'Click Here' buttons on internet banners and websites. In advertising red is often used to evoke erotic feelings (red lips, red nails, red-light districts etc). Red is widely used to indicate danger e.g. high voltage signs. This colour is also commonly associated with energy, so you can use it when promoting energy drinks, games, cars, items related to sports and high physical activity.

Positive aspects Increases enthusiasm, can provide motivation, will-power, initiative, focusing on attention to detail Negative aspects Defiance, strong-willed, malice, power hungry If used in balance it can be good for: listlessness, lack of drive, negativity, shyness.

WEARING RED: o o

o

o

Red is one of the top two favourite colours of all people.

-Don’t wear this colour if going for a job interview, as the person interviewing you may feel threatened.

Avoid using the colour red for babies or infants. The vibration is too hectic for them and will unsettle them. This is both in their clothing or decorations in the room.

Red is a fantastic colour to wear when socialising – not only will you be the life and soul of the party, it will give you energy to live life to the fullest. Remember too; it is the colour of passion, so you may be inviting lots of sexual attention.

From a spiritual perspective: Red relates to the BASE chakra situated from the feet to the base of the spine. This chakra relates to self-awareness, meaning our awareness of ourselves as human beings and our place on earth. It is the area of survival, and has to do with the amount of abundance we allow in our lives.

HEALING WITH COLOUR Using the Red Oil of Transformation on this area of the body will invite drive and passion, so you can begin to create a life of ease. It gives you the willpower to continue with a dynamic push that drives you to achieve greater things. It clears blockages – where things have been in the pipeline, but are just not moving. It is stimulating and energising, while at the same time assisting with being more grounded.

Because it is absorbed through the skin it gently releases deep and hidden emotional issues that may have been locked away for a long time. These are specifically linked to unreleased anger and frustration, which may lead to apathy, exhaustion and depression.

The Earth Angel spray gives an instant boost when sprayed around a room or body. It immediately invites grounding and energy, but does not address the emotions buried beneath the surface. This is a quick fix help around the home or office.

Conscious Life Magazine

Conscious Life Magazine

By Sergio Salotto

Much is written and spoken about on how and what we need to do in order to embrace and practice unconditional love of Self. It seems however that whilst this can be easily spoken about, putting it into practice becomes more difficult and challenging.

The reason for that could be because we may not have a true understanding of what is required and how to internalise it – what it really means to unconditionally accept ourselves.

In my view, it seems that much of what is said about the process of accepting ourselves unconditionally is based on the principles of (broadly speaking) positive thinking. Adopting the practice of telling ourselves that “I am ok” – convincing ourselves; creating a sense of “false reality” when in fact we still experience feelings of non-ok’ness. Other ways are:  adopting a defensive attitude and belief whereby “if we feel hurt by someone, it is not about us but about them” – defending ourselves in relation to an event/emotion;  believing that our experiences are part of the life lessons we are meant to have - a life journey of accepting that it is our ‘fate’, that we are meant to learn lessons of forgiveness / forgiving ... raises the question about what freedom of choice we can/are exercising for our life  changing our thinking to be OK with “however we are” because we want to believe it is who we are, what we are destined to be in this life and the world.

Conscious Life Magazine

But is that what unconditional acceptance and love of self is really all about?

To digress for a moment, a little over twenty years ago I had a life-changing experience from which I realised that we possibly have a misunderstanding of what it means and takes to internalise and practice unconditional acceptance of Self. And that what makes it difficult to internalise and practice is that we are not really addressing the underlying root cause for us not automatically or naturally accepting ourselves unconditionally. While positive thinking may assist us to some degree in getting us to change our mind-set, beliefs and what we think about ourselves, it does not guide us to identify and eliminate the underlying root source of our problem. This practice of self-acceptance requires us to continuously be aware of and manage our thinking, feelings and emotions on a daily basis, in every moment as they get triggered by the varying circumstances and situations we encounter. What this means is that it makes our well-being dependent on the circumstances, that it is, conditional. To truly accept ourselves unconditionally, our well-being cannot have or be dependent on any conditions or circumstances – that just makes us victims of our circumstances.

The practice of true love can therefore defined as:

The Unconditional Acceptance of What Is (no judgements, no expectations, no pre-conceptions, no discrimination of any kind, no provisos) Conscious Life Magazine

By this I don't mean accepting how you look, what you think and believe, how you behave etc. It also does not relate to cultural, religious or philosophical beliefs, personal points of view and attitudes, social status, career or professional achievements or anything else of such nature. Now ask yourself whether or not you truly accept yourself unconditionally according to this definition?

Unconditional acceptance of who or what we are comes from committing ourselves to living our life to fulfill that which is really important and meaningful for our life - our innermost, heartfelt life “dreams” - living our life purpose.

Such a commitment means living our life in true integrity and being authentic with and about who we are. Without accepting ourselves unconditionally at this level, we are not truly unconditionally accepting (loving) ourselves – and that will not allow is to equally unconditionally accept anyone or anything else.

It simply is not available to us because we are not experiencing its “power” and what it really means. To achieve this, we need to take responsibility to exercise our real freedom of choice for our life to be who and/or what we are regardless of all/any circumstances or fears of possible consequences. To unconditionally accept ourselves will also eliminate our emotional needs that trigger our fears of needing to compromise ourselves for fear of possible consequences.

Your life can be different.

For more information, Workshops and Consultations, contact Sergio on +27 (0) 82 412 3524 contact@sergiosalotto.co.za

The Earth Expo brings you a realistic environment to journey through your day engaging with the products and services that will help you to #MakeBetterChoices and be a more conscious and responsible consumer. It’s not just up to the world leaders, corporations and governments to address climate change it is up to each and every one of us. From the most simple change of your cleaning products to going off the grid, building green and everything in between.

The show will host a number of workshops within our 5 main categories namely; Food, Beverage & Nutrition, Interior Design, Décor & Landscape, Fashion & Beauty, Technology and Building.

“The misunderstanding of sustainability meaning only organic or natural products, will be demystified…”

Our speakers will bring the education on sustainable living to life addressing multiple subjects in sustainable living and the lifecycles of the things we live with daily in any built environment in which we spend our time. The misunderstanding of sustainability meaning only organic or natural products, will be demystified to display the entrepreneurs, SME’s and organisations making a concerted effort in promoting economic growth, skills development, job creation and those addressing their core business principles, material selections and processes to become more environmentally friendly and sustainable in the long term. The process includes encouraging and guiding those businesses not yet the darkest shade of green to address these core elements and become industry leaders in sustainable innovation.

To add true integrity Earth Expo have partnered with Innogreen Build and their partners to build one of the show structures comprising only truly green building materials and elements.

These will all be donated to a worthy and need social responsibility project after the show.

As shows are generally wasteful, the Earth Expo team have made it a priority to reduce and off-set their carbon footprint by partnering with and introducing a number of initiatives such as; A paperless system for information sharing and interaction between our visitors and exhibitors which eliminates expensive and wasteful printing of marketing materials, Uber ride sharing for car-pooling to the show which will be reported on post-show, Off-grid energy to run the show and energy requirements and a percentage of all ticket sales will be given to GreenPop for their treevolution planting initiatives to offset what we are unable to avoid.

Our exhibitors are covering every element of living and showcasing an exciting and diverse variety of products within the rooms of the home which include; Garden, Patio, Kitchen, Dining Room, Lounge, Bedroom, Bathroom, Walk-in-Cupboard, Kids Room, Office, Health & Wellness in the home, and our Building & Technology to be hosted in our Innogreen Build structure.

Join us on our Journey for Change.

The Earth Expo takes place between 11 -14 august at Montecasino in Johannesburg.

For more info check out www.earthexpo.co.za or find us on Facebook

Conscious Life Magazine

Fulvic Acid: Why we need it FulvicForce tonic is a fulvic acid solution extracted from the primeval South African coal deposits in Waterberg. Its primary and key active component, fulvic acid, is the final product of the natural humification process – the decomposition of once-living matter, mainly plants. All humic substances, particularly fulvic acid, being used as natural remedies for a very long time, are known for their biological activity and beneficial properties.

Fulvic acid is critical to the existence, growth and wellbeing of plants. It absorbs minerals, nutrients and biologicallysignificant elements present in soil as a result of microbial action, transforms inorganic minerals and trace elements into bio-available forms, and easily transfers its rich pristine content inside plants’ living cells.

It benefits humans in exactly the same way. The valuable properties of fulvic acid are well documented. For example, research shows that it has anti-viral, antimicrobial, anti-bacterial and antiinflammatory effects. Its usefulness for a wide variety of skin related conditions has also been demonstrated. But the spectrum of nutritional and remedial support of fulvic acid is much wider.

FulvicForce dietary supplement is manufactured in South Africa using a patented process of re-oxygenation of coal back to its humic and fulvic content. Thus, the product may be considered an extract from ancient plants, carrying their substantial mineral, nutritional and remedial value, from long before human industrial activities started the destruction of the Earth’s natural food resources.

Conscious Life Magazine

Conscious Life Magazine

By Heather Picton - ADHASA Founder

It is now commonly accepted that eating the right foods can make us healthier.

However few people recognise the huge impact that the right foods (and the way we combine them) can have on our health, physical ability, behaviour, concentration, mood and social interaction. The benefits that we gain depend upon our own unique make-up and the extent to which we are meeting our particular dietary needs.

There are several dietary principles to be observed in improving nutritional status. Ideally we should be following them all, but for some this could be introducing too much too soon. If this is the case for you then make it more do-able by tackling one area at a time and then build on it.

“Avoid over-processed products” A good place to start is by eating real foods – you should still be able to recognise what they are. Avoid over-processed products.

A. Supplement with EFAs Eighty percent of the western world has essential fatty acid (EFA) deficiencies.

 Omega 3 - Fatty Fish Oil e.g. unflavoured cod liver oil. Capsules: halibut liver oil, cold pressed salmon oil. Flaxseed oil contains both the omega 3 and omega 6 series of EFAs  Omega 6 - There is much controversy about omega 6 with claims that we get too much damaged omega 6 from junk and fried foods – these damaged oils are bad for the body. At the same time many people take supplements which include undamaged omega 6. A note of caution - it has been said that people with temporal lobe epilepsy should avoid evening primrose oil (a source of omega 6).

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 Remember to add the vitamins and minerals needed to metabolise EFAs (not necessary for fish oil). Use a good multivitamin and mineral supplement and make sure that it is free of synthetic colourants and synthetic flavourants.

Some supplements contain EFAs, but usually not enough.

B. Avoid that which prevents the body from using EFAs, or prevents the body from functioning at optimal levels.  Artificial colourants and artificial flavourants.  Synthetic Antioxidant preservatives, eg EDTA, BHA, BHT, TBHQ. Avoid confusing them with antioxidants in Vits A,C,E which are OK.  Calcium Propionate – research in Australia showed that Calcium Propionate (added to bread) can interfere with concentration and, although rare, can cause wild mood swings in some children.  Benzoic Acid, Benzoates, Sulphur dioxide, Sulphates, Sulphites.  MSG (Monosodium Glutamate)  At all times avoid bought cakes and pies, bought hamburger patties, fish fingers, packet soups and sauces, processed meats and polonies, iced tea (in tins), cordials, fruit squashes and fizzy drinks. They usually contain the above additives. Try to find equally tasty but healthier alternatives so that you never feel deprived.

C. Maintain Stable Blood Glucose Levels by

D. Adequate numbers of Intestinal Flora

eating meals consisting of mainly low GI carbohydrates (that release glucose slowly into the bloodstream), combined with a small portion of protein.

assists digestive function and keeps us more comfortable.

Maintain Stable Blood Glucose Levels by eating meals consisting of mainly low GI carbohydrates (that release glucose slowly into the bloodstream), combined with a small portion of protein.

1. Start the day with a balanced breakfast: apple slices, rolled oats porridge (see the ADHASA food list) cooked in milk, OR scrambled egg on toast with a slice of tomato or cucumber), or boiled egg with ryevita. Smoothies made with intermediate or low GI fruit and full cream greek-style yoghurt are great, and even ‘healthy’ leftovers are fine.

2. Eat three balanced meals a day. Many people need a small (healthy) snack between meals and sometimes a snack before they go to bed. This is especially the case if dinner is very early.

Balanced meals and snacks can be prepared by using mainly slow releasing carbohydrates such as dense heavy breads; tasmati, basmati or brown rice, legumes(dried beans, lentils, peas); rolled oats (make sure you can still recognise the grain), oat bran; citrus fruits (oranges, lemons, naartjies); deciduous fruits (apples, pears, peaches, cherries, plums, apricots etc); kiwi fruit, small portion of grapes; sweet potato, mealies, corn and pasta made from durum wheat/semolina. Most green vegetables.

To this add smaller portions of carbohydrate with intermediate glucose release such as boiled new baby potatoes (with skins), beetroot, sweet corn, marog, tropical fruits, rye bread, and add protein: lean meat, fatty fish, chicken, eggs, cheese, milk and yoghurt.

The smallest portion of any meal should come from the foods that release glucose rapidly into the bloodstream: anything with cake flour as the main ingredient, large potatoes, bread and rolls, sticky rice, samp, mealie meal, matzos, pretzels, melon family and watermelon. Melon and watermelon provide healthy nutrients. Keep the rest to a minimum.

Oil, butter, salad dressings, nuts should be used in moderation. Avocado pear is excellent.

“The smallest portion of any meal should come from the foods that release glucose rapidly”

Can improve absorption of nutrients and also support immune function. May improve smelly winds/breath.

A FEW TIPS TO HELP YOU ON YOUR WAY:  Get into the habit of choosing unprocessed and unrefined foods.  Eat plenty of fruit, vegetables and protein. Avoid fried foods and a high intake of coffee, tea or alcohol.  A small snack between meals such as a sandwich, an apple, plain popcorn, plain biltong (preferably game), a few nuts or cheese – may help maintain concentration and stabilise emotions and mood.  Keep sugar to a minimum and never eat sweets or sugary biscuits on an empty tummy. If eating sweets, avoid those with colourants. The World Health Organisation has suggested that sugar intake should be reduced – but more about that in a future edition.  Keep fried food to a minimum – grill instead.  Spoil yourself go out and find those healthier and tastier foods to replace the junk.  Read labels! Join ADHASA and use their food list.

This is a list of foods free of the additives most likely to affect sensitive people. ( It doesn’t tackle GI levels).  Many people have food allergies and/or sensitivities, and often these are to wheat and milk. They may also react to other foods. If you become more irritable after eating a certain food it may be that it disagrees with you. You might need to have it checked.  Ideally the whole family should be involved with healthier eating – ultimately everyone benefits.

Obviously there can be many reasons for people not functioning at their best levels. Diet is not the only reason however it can be a most important factor. So when moving to a healthier eating lifestyle try to recognise the improvements that are taking place. It might be the extra organisation that could creep into your life, or that your thinking seems more clear. Are your children coping better? Do they settle down more easily with their homework? Are frustration levels in the home lower? Improvements differ from person to person depending upon the extent to which their own nutritional requirements and being met.

It is often only when people (adults and children) experience the difference that healthier eating has made in their lives, and how much better they feel, that they take responsibility for what they eat.

Conscious Life Magazine

So you’re looking for an effective birth control method that best suits your body and your lifestyle?

You know about the pill, the Mirena and the injection, but all of these are hormonal contraceptives that will disrupt your endocrine system in order to work effectively. So what other options are out there?

I find that alternative birth control methods are not a topic that I hear very often in women’s daily conversations, and women sometimes ask me: “What happens if I do not want to take a hormonal contraceptive?”

“The Justisse Method has an effectiveness rate of 99.6% when used correctly – exactly the same as the pill.“

Well, what did women do before the invention of the pill a mere 54 years ago?

What are the benefits of The Justisse Method Of Fertility Awareness?

They had an effective method to avoid pregnancy which has been improved over the years and has developed into an effective, scientific method called Fertility Awareness Methods (FAM).

There are a variety of methods that fall under the FAM umbrella, including the Billings Method, the Sympo-Thermal Method, the Creighton Method. They all differ slightly, this article is going to focus specifically The Justisse Method of Fertility Awareness. However these scientific methods should not be confused with the Rhythm Method, which is simply a mathematical calculation and not an effective birth control method.

“…these scientific methods should not be confused with the Rhythm Method, which is simply a mathematical calculation and NOT an effective birth control method.”

Conscious Life Magazine

The Justisse Method has an effectiveness rate of 99.6% when used correctly – exactly the same as the pill. However, the benefits of this natural method go far beyond just a means to avoid pregnancy.

Women who use the Justisse method as a birth control method find notice the following benefits: • The overall costs are far cheaper as there is just a once-off cost to learn the method, and once you have understood and grasped the method there are no further financial costs involved.

• As you are not ingesting any chemical hormones it doesn’t kill your sex drive. Women experience their sexual libido naturally and therefore couples who use this method report having sex more often than couples using hormonal contraception.

• It’s a complete health care option – if your body is not functioning optimally you will be able to see it on your charts. It also enables you to monitor stress levels, helps to keep your lifestyle choices on a healthy path, and provides an early clue to potentially devastating diseases, which enables you to practice preventative medicine.

• There are no side effects (such as weight gain, deep vein thrombosis, breast cancer or strokes).

• The knowledge you’ll gain from this method is empowering, and understanding the ins and outs of your body is liberating.

• This method is a highly effective birth control option, but when you are ready to start a family or grow your current family you will know exactly when to have sex in order to fall pregnant.

“In the past there was very little research conducted into alternative birth control methods…”

So if this method is so effective and there are so many benefits, why have we not heard about it in main stream media, from our doctors or from our moms?

The answers are simple.

In the past there was very little research conducted into alternative birth control methods, which resulted in many unplanned pregnancies. However, times have changed, extensive research has gone into the Justisse method, and we now sit with a highly effective method to avoid pregnancy, achieve pregnancy or simply monitor your reproductive health. The other reason that Justisse method is not spoken about more often is that it takes time to learn this method and doctors do not have the time to sit and teach their patients.

“…without this mucus you actually cannot fall pregnant, so this mucus is very important.”

How does the NFP method work?

This method requires a woman to observe, chart and interpret menstrual cycle events that tell her when she is fertile or infertile.

Conscious Life Magazine

Each day, you take your temperature with a special basal body temperature (BBT) thermometer and chart what we call cervical mucus.

Cervical mucus is the white, opaque gel-like substance that you have probably noticed on the toilet paper after going to the toilet. Perhaps it even freaked you out a bit. The good news is that you do not have an STI. It is completely normal for all women to have this and it is the basis to understanding when you are fertile and when you are not. Let me highlight here that without this mucus you actually cannot fall pregnant, so this mucus is very important.

“…you will learn how to identify when you have ovulated, when you are fertile, how long your luteal phase is, when to expect your next menstruation…”

Writing down these notations each day will eventually create a fascinating picture of what is happening in your body during each cycle. While learning to chart, you will learn how to identify when you have ovulated, when you are fertile and infertile, how long your luteal phase is, when to expect your next menstruation, how to identify if you are pregnant or not, or if you are eating food that you are intolerant to.

Did you know?

A fact that surprisingly few people know is that a woman is only fertile for a couple of days (sometimes as long as a week) during each cycle, and it is only during this time that she can fall pregnant.

Men, on the other hand, are fertile every single day of the month.

So if a women is only fertile for such a short duration, how do so many women have unplanned pregnancies? Well a man’s sperm can live in a woman’s body for up to five days in the right conditions, so you could have sex today but only conceive next week.

“…a man’s sperm can live in a woman’s body for up to five days in the right conditions…”

A window into your well-being The Justisse method is a very useful way to monitor and improve your reproductive health.

It’s important to be aware that: “The menstrual cycle is a window into the general health and well-being of women, and not just a reproductive event. It can indicate the status of bone health, heart disease, and ovarian failure, as well as long-term fertility.

“The menstrual cycle is a window into the general health and well-being of women…”

“…it is the first sign that something else could be going on” Therefore, if a woman is not having her period, bleeding excessively or having severe menstrual cramps it is the first sign that something else could be going on.” (Paula Hillard, M.D., Professor of Obstetrics & Gynaecology & Paediatrics, University Of Cincinnati College Of Medicine) Understanding that there are alternative effective birth control options that have been around for a long time gives women confidence in their ability to choose the method that is right for them.

Don’t be scared to ask questions. Don’t be coerced into a using method that you do not agree with, and make sure you know the pros and cons of the method you choose.

Article written by Claudia Slattery Justisse Holistic Reproductive Health Practitioner MA (PTA) Human Movement Science claudia@butterflywings.co.za www.butterflywings.co.za

Conscious Life Magazine

Seven reasons why you want to change to a MOONCUP

Menstrual cups are starting to make way into women’s lives. The Mooncup, a reusable silicone menstrual cup and worn internally like a tampon. It is a worry-free option that lasts up to eight hours – and can hold three times more than a conventional tampon or pad therefore doesn’t need changing as often. So from start to finish you won’t need to spare a thought for your sanitary protection.

The Mooncup is the original medical grade silicone menstrual cup, made in the UK by a certified ethical business. Why are women making the change?

1. Once it’s in – you don’t need to carry extra products for the day.

2. You only need to change it every 8 hours. A Mooncup holds 30%more blood than any tampon of sanitary pad therefore you have to change it less.

3. Most sanitary products can dry you out and leave fibres behind while the Mooncup is designed to respect your natural balance.

4. It doesn’t leak in your sleep. No more waking up to sleeping in a pool of blood.

5. You feel sexy while menstruating 6. You can carry on your life – sport is a breeze.

7. No need for a sanitary pad or tampons draw anymore.

It’s not easy to research feminine hygiene products because manufacturers of tampons and sanitary pads are not required to disclose the ingredients used in their products .The two biggest culprits proven to cause health problems in non-organic tampons are rayon and dioxin.

• Rayon is commonly chlorine-bleached, and is a highly absorbent fibre. Did you know that common brands of tampons are made mostly from rayon?

• Furthermore, dioxin, a toxic carcinogen, is a byproduct of all chlorine bleaching methods and is also found throughout the environment in varying levels as a by-product of pesticide spraying and pollution from incinerators that has been on the rise since the 1940’s. But it’s not just from farming methods that dioxin finds its way into your sanitary ware – it is also a by-product from chlorine bleaching. Dioxin will leave detectable residuals in any product that has been bleached with any type of chlorine bleach.

Published scientific reports have shown that evidence is growing that even low levels of dioxins may be linked to cancer, endometriosis and immune system suppression. Considering a woman may use as many as 11,000 tampons in her lifetime, she may be subjecting herself to additional dioxin exposure

Conscious Life Magazine

By Lisa Raleigh

Your body needs calcium to build and maintain strong bones. Your heart, muscles and nerves also rely on calcium to function optimally.

If you don’t get enough calcium, your body suffers the consequence of weak bones and related ailments.

Children might not reach their full potential adult height, whilst adults may have low bone mass, which is a high risk factor for osteoporosis.

When we think of “calcium”, many of us immediately think of “milk” Whilst there are benefits worth mentioning in the right kinds of milk, majority of our milk products today contain toxins like bovine growth hormones and antibiotics.

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Homogenized and pasteurized milk in particular may have high amounts of this important mineral, but it is not necessarily well absorbed or utilized in the body.

“…majority of our milk products today contain toxins…”

Dark Leafy Greens Spinach takes first prize as a rich amongst greens as a source of calcium, but green leaves like kale, collards, bok choy and rocket will all pack a health punch.

The facts: Spinach in particular offers around 290gs of calcium per cup.

Make it happen: Tossing baby spinach in garlic, chilli and olive oil and frying makes a surprisingly simple and delicious side dish. Switch up your regular ice berg lettuce with dark leaves and rocket in salads.

Sesame Seeds These small white seeds seen frequently atop breads and rolls very high in calcium, as well as other important vitamins and minerals.

The facts: Raw sesame seeds contains a hefty 1000mg of calcium per 100 gram serving. Popular Tahini pastes and butters are sesame seed-based, containing 426mg per serving of 100 grams.

Make it happen: Sesame seeds are easy to throw into salads and veggie mixes. Also add them into your daily smoothie for added goodness. Including them into your crumb mixture for chicken strips also makes a delicious option.

Tinned Sardines Apart from regular fish, sardines are particularly rich in calcium as the bones are eaten as well.

The facts: 125g tin of sardines contains roughly 575mg calcium.

Make it happen: Since they are already in a tomato sauce, combining sardines with thin noodles and a pasta sauce makes a tasty meal. Dehydrating / drying them out will give a crunchy, chip-like texture - a Portuguese delicacy.

“Raw Sesame Seeds contain a hefty 1000mg of Calcium per 100g serving�

The facts: Raw - whole or ground - almonds contain about 266mg of calcium per 100g.

Make it happen: Enjoy almonds on their own in a trail mix with seeds, nuts and dried fruit. Dry frying almond flakes very briefly will add a delicious crunch to salads and stir-fries, even pastas.

Calcium supplements

Quinoa

Quality supplementation is one of the easiest ways to guarantee you meet your calcium needs. Here is a quick guideline of your daily recommendations.

Underestimated and underutilised, quinoa is a light and healthy wheat-free wholegrain.

Men

Daily RDA

19-50 years 51-70 years 71 and older

1,000 mg 1,000 mg 1,200 mg

Women

Daily RDA

19-50 years 51 and older

1,000 mg 1,200 mg

The facts: One cup of cooked quinoa provides between 60-100 mg of calcium, as well as potassium, protein and zinc.

Make it happen: Quinoa is an equal to cous cous and barley in salads, veggie mixes and stir-fries.

Remember to rinse thoroughly before cooking.

Daily upper limit 2,500 mg 2,000 mg 2,000 mg

Daily upper limit 2,500 mg 2,000 mg

Oranges More commonly recognised for their Vitamin C benefits, oranges and fresh orange juice also pack a great calcium punch. In addition to this, they are a great source of potassium and beta carotene.

The facts: One cup of freshly-squeezed organic orange juice provides roughly 72mg of calcium.

Make it happen: Great on their own or freshly squeezed, skip the preservative-laden store bought juices and make your own. Orange cubes, yoghurt, a few torn mint leaves and a drizzle of honey makes a delicious snack.

White Beans Many common beans are high in calcium, and white beans are particularly rich.

The facts: Most white beans have roughly 175mg of calcium per cup serving.

Make it happen: Beans make a great soup base, particularly with fussy eaters. Dry roasting them briefly in the oven before tossing into chopped tomatoes, red onions, a green chilli, coriander and lime juice makes for a delicious salsa.

Almonds Almonds are another set of unsung heroes when it comes to nutritional value.

Conscious Life Magazine

The Six Stages of Mental Strength

Many people think that mentally strong people are simply born that way.

That from the moment their feet hit the ground, they are simply endowed with some almost supernatural skill that allows them to face challenges bravely. Others think that mental strength is like a light bulb – it is either turned on or turned off. And if yours happens to be off, you are out of luck.

What most people don’t know is that mental strength it is neither a genetic gift, nor a character trait. It is a skill that is perfected through the constant interface with adversity. And like any other skill, it is developed through a series of stages. Stages where we face the disconnect between what we don’t know and what we want to know. Stages where we feel incompetent. Stages where we don’t know what to do. Stages where we try new things with no idea if they will work or not. And finally, stages where we begin to define ourselves differently – as people who can and do face challenges, and are made stronger for them.

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Here are the six stages of mental strength: Disruption.

We don’t get stronger when things go our way, and the cards ceremoniously line up in our favor. We get stronger when we face events that scare us, challenge us, and ultimately, force us to rise. But the first stage of facing any challenge is feeling unraveled by it. It is when the world you know, and all of the beliefs that maintain it, are shattered. It is when you acknowledge that what you knew is no longer true, and your life can no longer be put back together as it was.

And as much as this state of disruption is uncomfortable, it is also unavoidable. Because in order to learn to be stronger, we first have to let go of what we thought was true – about ourselves, about the world, and about other people.

Uncertainty.

Uncertainty is what happens when we don’t have the answers, when nothing seems clear, and there is no approach that guarantees success. But uncertainty is also how we learn. Without uncertainty, there is no space for new information, because we already have the answers. It is in not having the answers that we ask the questions that lead to a better understanding. It is also in not having the answers that we learn to trust ourselves. We learn to face our doubts, our fears, and our insecurities, and we learn that we are not defined by them.

Reconsideration.

Reconsideration means stepping back, using a wide angle lens, and taking a second look. It means thinking over everything you thought to be true, the decisions you made, the priorities you lived by, and the life you want going forward. It means not having to be perfect, accepting that some choices and some beliefs are not serving you. It is in reconsideration that we become willing to consider new approaches – without the promise of success. Because what we learn is that we can always step back, learn from the past, learn from the decisions we made, and make new decisions with the hope that they will be improved by the process.

Search for Meaning.

If you ask mentally strong people about their lives before and after feeling strong they will tell you two things: their strength is in direct proportion to the challenges they faced, and their lives now have much more meaning. What they are telling you is that it is in the search for meaning that results from facing challenging – and even devastating – events that they were made strong. It is in having to find a reason to go on, when it doesn’t seem possible that they develop a new perspective about what is most important in life. Because what is not working may not be what is supposed to work. It may not be what is most important. And it may not be what really matters.

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Recrafting the Narrative.

A life narrative is what we say to ourselves about our life. It is what we tell ourselves about our self-worth, our ability, and our mental strength. And for people who are mentally strong, it is dramatically different from what it once was, because life narratives are not handed to us, and they are not static either. Instead, they are carved out through the lives we lead, the choices we make, and the attributions we assign to events that happen in our lives. And what mentally strong people will tell you is that there was a time when they didn’t feel strong, when they didn’t see themselves in the way they now do. But they will also tell you that in order to get to where they are now, there was a recrafting process. They had to challenge their life narrative.

They had to redefine and recraft who they were, how they saw themselves, and what they said to themselves. Ultimately, it was they who defined themselves as strong.

Building Agency.

Mental strength doesn’t exist in a vacuum, and even the strongest people need others to recognize and validate their strength, because mental strength needs a place to attach. It needs something larger than itself to give it purpose. A superhero, after all, needs a village to save. And the reason is that people feel best when they are using their strengths to help others. And people feel even better when they are using their unique strengths – the ones most closely tied to the challenges they faced – to help others through similar challenges.

Becoming mentally strong isn’t about having all the answers, never feeling weak, or never admitting defeat. It is about being willing to face challenges – owning all of the uncertainty they bring – and being willing to be made better for them.

Claire Dorotik LMFT is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist specializing in optimal experiences and positive self growth. With a wealth of experience in trauma, family life cycles, addictions, and most importantly, post traumatic growth, Claire uses a positive psychology approach incorporating her personal experience in ultra running and fitness to help demonstrate the power of human potential.

Conscious Life Magazine

What every grandparent needs to know

Time sharing your grandkids

Would you know how to respond, for example, if your grandchild asked where babies come from? Most of us have found ourselves in at least one of the following situations.

Are the “other” grandparents more involved with your grandkids than you are? It happens, and it’s tough to deal with.

Step back to gain a little perspective, and cultivate other relationships and interests. You can also ask (nicely) your adult children and their spouses for more time with the grandchildren if you feel you’re being shortchanged. Also refrain from making too many comparisons to the other grandparents and know that your grandbabies will never know — or care — which of their grandmothers was most on the ball about nappy rash, burping, and gas.

Move beyond name pain

It’s not a popularity contest

It isn’t easy to embrace fully a baby who has been named after a relative you hated, or who was cruel to you, but experts say the process begins with forgiving the relative who wronged you.

Forgiving someone is not the same as saying that their behavior was okay. It simply recognizes that they were in so much pain and confusion that he or she acted in ways that a loving person could not. This allows for the possibility that when you speak your grandchild’s name, you can do so with love and joy, not with waves of pain and hurt. The child may just be the catalyst that motivates you to do the healing that will help release the burden you’ve been carrying.

Are your grandchildren’s parents jealous of their kids’ affection for you?

Do your grandkids throw a fit when it’s time to leave your house and go home?

The intensity of their fondness for you can be a bitter pill for parents. Here’s some advice: • Let your daughter and son-in-law know that as flattering as it is to be so adored by your grandchildren, you are as eager as they are to take steps to reduce the outbursts and tantrums. • If your grandchildren insist on staying at your house, let them to express themselves but answer firmly: “I know this is not what you want to hear, but tonight you’re sleeping at your house.”

As joyful as grand parenting is, there will inevitably come a moment when you’ll be at a loss for words, or just wish you could leave the room.

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Answering THAT question

Bedtime blues

Until adolescent hormones begin raging, a child’s interest in sexual behavior is usually nothing more than innocent curiosity. If your grandkids ask you questions, your responses should be simple. If your granddaughter asks why her little brother’s body is different from hers, don’t give her a college-level anatomy lecture; if she asks where babies come from, don’t give her a dissertation on intercourse.

A straightforward answer that girls are different from boys, or that parents who love each other know how to make babies, will likely send the kids happily on their way.

Your grandchildren’s bedtime is 8pm but they refuse to go to sleep. You don’t want to punish them but you want to do what their parents have asked. So what can you do? Hold firm. For the kids’ own good, stay faithful to their usual bedtime routine. Try to be as consistent as possible to what goes on at home. Limit the bedtime drama by standing your ground. Letting things slide comes with a price, usually in the form of inadequate sleep for your grandchildren.

Interfering much?

If your daughter (or son) tells you you’re a busybody, it will certainly hurt, but understand that they may have done you a favour by telling you their feelings instead of keeping them bottled up. Rather than taking the comment as an insult, look at it as a gesture they’re making to try to make things better. Ask if there are any specific examples of times when they felt you annoyed them, and then listen.

Make the conversation into an information-gathering mission, an opportunity for you to understand specifically what they’re talking about.

The clearer an idea you have of what they consider upsetting, the better you’ll be able to avoid doing those things in the future.

Are you over 55? You probably qualify for cheaper insurance! Speak to Indwe Risk Services today for a free home or vehicle quotation to compare to your current cover.

Call us on 0860 13 13 14 or visit www.indwerisk.co.za for more information.

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Years before my baby girl was born, I had a dream that I had a daughter.

She came to me and gave me a hug, told me I was her mother, and told me her name was Evelyn.

by Lindsay Curtis

That dream imprinted on my memory and my heart. So much so that when I found out I was pregnant, I knew I was carrying a girl, and she had already told me her name: Evelyn. Meaning wished for child, which couldn’t be more true!

In order to evolve, our souls come to Earth more than once. I know that as I’ve grown and changed and learned about soul contracts and reincarnation, my thoughts and beliefs have gravitated to this notion. For those of you who are on the fence about reincarnation, I invite to you to explore the idea that a soul is born into a (different) body for many lifetimes.

It is my belief that once a soul has made the decision to have (another) earthly incarnation, the first step is to decide on what kind of life they want. This is contingent upon what lessons they wish to learn. This involves being matched with a parent or set of parents. This process really depends on the soul’s purpose and desire for specific lessons and lifestyle.

For example, if two souls had been together before perhaps as a mother and daughter set, then they might wish to relive that experience again or perhaps relive it in reverse, so the daughter becomes the mother in the new lifetime. Sometimes the soul wishes to incarnate in a particular part of the world, and the choice will be less specific to the individual parent. As diverse as people are, so are our souls and what we wish to create and experience in our lifetime(s).

Once this connection to a potential parent is made, the soul then creates a connection to that person and is present around their energy, waiting to be born at the right time. When I do intuitive readings for clients, I often see the souls of their unborn children waiting for them. I can usually tell if the child is a boy or a girl, and may also get a sense of what they are meant to experience together in this lifetime.

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The book Spirit Babies: How to Communicate with the Child You’re Meant to Have is a collection of stories from an intuitive Gentleman who spent decades connecting parents with their unborn children. When I do a reading, I cannot guarantee I’ll pick up information about potential unborn children, but more often than not, I do ‘see’ them if they are with you and going to be joining your family in the future.

Of course, parents also have significant influence as to which soul joins their family through conception. Our daily thoughts, desires and purposes create a beacon for souls who respond to these energies. This is particularly true of the mother. According to the Edgar Cayce readings, a woman’s daily activities and inner thoughts during the gestation period create a field much like a magnet would, attracting souls to the field of opportunity life as her child would offer.

As far as families with more than one child, souls also make soul contract/agreements with potential siblings. The energy field and desire of the mother and the souls wanting to incarnate combine to make the decision as to who is born first. I like to imagine my sisters and I floating in the Ether on the “Other Side” deciding to go first, and I in my oldest child splendor and glory pushed through and said, “Me first, of course!” In the case of miscarriage, I’ve noticed that particular soul often comes in through a later pregnancy if the opportunity is presented. I’ve also seen one instance where the miscarried child from a woman went on to be born into her best friend’s family.

I’ve done readings for folks who have shared a myriad of past lives with the same group of souls – soul groups – all taking turns being siblings, parents and children. One thing I’m certain after doing hundreds of readings is…we certainly do choose our family members, the location we will incarnate, and the different life events that will take place. It is empowering and so very touching for me to know my family members and I chose each other. I feel especially honored that my daughter chose me.

What a gift she has given me in this lifetime.

My name's Lindsay.

I'm a spiritual intuitive, empath and Reiki practitioner. Armed with intuition and a desire to help others grow, I write the articles on The Daily Awe to do just that.

Conscious Life Magazine

Losing friends may sound like a bad thing at first, but in reality, it’s not bad at all.

It’s normal that friendships evolve over time. If you began to notice that you’re keeping regular contact with fewer people than you did a decade ago, there’s nothing to worry about. In fact, it’s probably a good thing. As we age, we tend to stay friends with those who really understand us. A sincere and deep connection doesn’t come around often, but chances are that people who are still your friends are very loyal and that your friendship stood the test of time.

Here are some things you might experience as you get older that affect the ways in which you view interpersonal connections and value friendship in life. These will also help you to understand that losing friends is completely natural and in most cases a good thing.

You don’t tolerate insincerity anymore When you were young, you were probably much more willing to turn a blind eye to the faults of people you met, choosing instead to focus on other aspects like their vitality or personality. As you grow older, you’ll have less patience for insincerity and shallow relationships. Age teaches us that it’s much better to have few sincere friendships, than a ton of superficial ones. An honest conversation is your priority in interpersonal relationships now – and that’s a good thing!

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You’ve got less time As you grow older, your time for socializing will simply shrink. It might have to do with professional demands or starting a family – the point is, you’ll simply have less time on your hands and chances are that with age you’ll learn to properly value it. That’s why you’ll choose not to waste it on people whose company you don’t really enjoy that much.

You’d rather save your time for people who matter to you and for relationships that you find rewarding. Losing friends that don’t matter so much isn’t a big deal in this case.

Your friendships deepened with time Throughout your life, you probably saw many friends drift away at the first sign of trouble.

Good thing is, as you age, you become surrounded by friends who were at your side through the good and the bad. You shared many experiences and that’s how you created a deep bond. You don’t need anything more than this in your life, so it’s only natural that you stick to your friendships even more.

You’ve got more experience on your back Over the years, you’ve learned how sometimes it’s alright to rely on your friends and other times to provide support yourself. This experience shows you who you can really depend on, helping you to decide into which friendships you should invest your time. It’s likely that only a few people will make it to the final cut – and for a good reason. Your life experience taught you about the value of interpersonal relations, so you’re able to tell who deserves your attention and time.

You lack the energy to form new connections When you were young, you had all the time and energy to go to parties and mingle with lots of new people in one night. These days, you probably see how fleeting and superficial all these relationships were. You have no patience for that anymore. Rather than go out and meet new people, you prefer to visit one of your friends and share a glass of good wine together.

Aging leaves less room for relationships that aren’t sincere or valuable, so it’s only natural that while some friends drift away, others stay firmly by your side. If you feel that your friend circle has shrunk over the years, there’s no reason to panic – this is something that happens to all of us as we grow older and make wiser decisions, including those about our friendships.

So, as you see, losing friends during your lifetime isn’t a bad thing at all – it’s just a result of knowing better what you want in life and becoming more picky with people.

You’re more protective As you get older, you might grow more protective of personal information and choose to share it with a select group of people. You no longer want to expose your personal life to everyone, but rather talk things over with your friends who you know you can rely on in any situation.

Author Bio: Mary Frenson is a Marketing Assistant at www.Checkdirector.co.uk a new source of information on UK companies. Mary is always happy to share her marketing ideas and thoughts on business issues. In her free time, she enjoys handicrafts.

Conscious Life Magazine

Managing negativity rebalances a brain that is out of balance or leaning toward the negative.

The prefrontal cortex (PFC) sits in the very front of the brain. It is your brain’s CEO, the part of the brain that when working well allows us to delay acting on our feeling and impulses in order to achieve long-term goals. In contrast, the limbic system deeper in the brain makes up the brain’s more primitive centers for emotions and urges. Emotions and urges “want what they want when they want it.”

The techniques to manage negativity strengthen the capacity of the PFC to offset the limbic system; they help to offset the negative default position of the brain. You are literally strengthening your PFC when you do these exercises. When you distract yourself and manage to get distance from your negative thoughts, and counteract the negative thoughts with more rational responses, you are enhancing your PFC’s control over the limbic system. And a stronger PFC ultimately helps check the emotional turmoil we feel from an out-of-control limbic system. A stronger PFC not only reins in the horses, it helps prevent them from bolting in the first place.

How Do We Manage Negativity?

1. Distance and Detach Remember, “You are not just your brain, you are not your thoughts.” Thoughts arise automatically, just like the heart beats automatically and we breathe automatically. We don’t control our thoughts. And yet they can control us if we let them. If we remind ourselves that our brain makes our negative thoughts, that we are not our brain, we gain much-​needed distance from our negative thoughts. They happen; that’s it.

Don’t fight them. But we can think about our thinking. We can put things into perspective: Our thoughts are not facts. With practice and experience, we can learn to more automatically gain distance from our negative thoughts. Try observing the flow of negativity in your mind, the way you might sit on the bank of a stream and watch the water flow by. You might even view your negativity as a scientist would: “Oh, how interesting that there are self-​critical thoughts occurring now.” Another way to create distance and detachment is what I call the “Ronald Reagan Approach.” In his presidential election debates with Walter Mondale, Mr. Reagan repeatedly and quite effectively said to Mr. Mondale: “There you go again.” Tell yourself: “There’s my brain being negative again.”

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2. Distract Yourself Pour yourself into something productive and positive or at least seek out a change of gears. When we are preoccupied with something we enjoy (a crossword puzzle, a good book, a game of catch) or even just find something to absorb us (take a coffee break or talk to a colleague), it gives our system a chance to calm down and our thoughts a chance to refocus from negative to more neutral, if not positive. Another distraction technique is something I call “Sole Therapy”: Focus on the bottom of your shoes as you walk. It moves your attention away from the negativity, distracting you.

3. Remember Your Values Remind yourself what your values are. If you are ruminating over negative thoughts and decisions, refocusing on your core values will help reduce the negativity.

4. Practice Gratitude Embrace an attitude of gratitude. Write down three things for which you are grateful. Studies show that simply writing down what you are grateful for can really change the brain and improve mood, moving you away from negativity.

5. Shun the Shower of Shoulds Get out of the “Cold Shower of Shoulds.” Among the torment of negative thinking that afflicts us often is a constant flood of “shoulds”—“I should do this . . . I should do that . . .” This cold shower of “shoulds” is nothing but destructive. Once we become more aware of our tendency to stay too long in this destructive shower, we have a better chance of stepping out of this negative shower stall.

6. Twist the Dial Imagine that there is a dial on the side of your head that you could use to turn down the negative thoughts. Imagine yourself turning down the negativity by twisting the dial.

7. Have a Laugh Can you find the humor in what the negative critic is saying to you? Laughter can be the best medicine.

Make fun of the negative thoughts. Laugh at them and yourself for believing them... but make sure that you do so gently.

8. Power Up Your Problem Solving If the negative thoughts relate to a clear problem (e.g., a serious health issue), make a list of the steps you can take to deal with the situation. Break down the potential solution into small, achievable steps you can take to improve things.

9. Find the Positive Try to find the positive in what seems to be a negative situation. Turning around a negative thought often shows us another side of the situation. A problem or crisis can even be an opportunity. Search for it.

10. Breathe Take slow, deep breaths. This relaxes the body and the brain and reduces brain over activity.

11. Move Do something physical; exercise. Don’t stay stuck and immobile, literally and metaphorically.

Conscious Life Magazine This article was written by Dr. Joseph Annibali, M.D. and originally appeared on MariaShriver.com

Rosie Motene shares the Celebration of The African Goddesses!

Goddess Mawu “Mawu’s themes are creativity, Universal Law, passion, abundance, birth, and inspiration. Her symbols are clay and the moon. Mawu arrives on an elephant’s back, expectant with spring’s creative energy. Hers is a wise passion and a timely birth, being ruled by natural laws and universal order. In Africa, She is a lunar-aligned creatrix who made people from clay. As a mother figure, Mawu inspires the universe’s abundance and every dreamers imagination.

Goddess Odudua In our journey of discovering and understanding African Goddesses, today we look at Goddess Odudua!

Odudua’s themes are kinship, unity, devotion, creativity, community, love and fertility. Her symbols are black items. In the beginning, Odudua created the earth and its people. In Yoruban tradition, She presides over all matter of fertility, love and community. Her sacred color is black.

Goddess Tenga “Tenga’s themes are balance, justice, morality and freedom. Her symbols are soil. Among the Mossi of Senegal, Tenga is a potent earth Goddess who presides over all matters of justice and morality. Today She joins our celebration by offering to right wrongs and restore the balance in any area of our life that’s gotten out of kilter.

These are the negative patterns that Tenga helps us to attack and transform with honest candidness (including being honest with yourself about shortcomings). You may not like what She shows you, but the results will be worth it.

Tenga improves your awareness of the Goddess in all things and all people.”

Conscious Life Magazine

Oshun: The African Goddess of Love and Sweet Waters Across many ancient civilizations throughout the world, love was placed under the domain of a certain deity, usually, but not in all cases, a goddess. In the Classical world, for instance, there were Venus and Aphrodite, love goddesses of the Roman and Greek pantheons respectively. In the ancient Near East, love was personified in such goddesses as Ishtar and Astarte. Further afield in West Africa, the Yoruba people believe in a love goddess by the name of Oshun.

Although Oshun governs love and the sweet waters, she is also regarded as a highly benevolent deity.

Oshun is said to be the protector of the poor and the mother of all orphans. It is Oshun who brings to them their needs in this life. Additionally, Oshun is regarded as a healer of the sick, the bringer of song, music and dance, as well as prosperity and fertility. Oshun is also depicted as a teacher, who taught the Yoruba agriculture, culture and mysticism. She also taught them the art of divination using cowrie shells, as well as songs, chants and meditations taught to her by her father Obatala.

“Ichar-tsirew".

Her themes are unity, community, justice, spirituality, purification, home, peace and organization. Her symbols are water, orderly items and peace amulets. In Ghana, this water Goddess flies into people’s lives, saturating them with peaceful intentions and tranquility, especially in the home. She reveals in good organization and any matters carried out in an orderly fashion.

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MEME “Meme’s themes are ghosts, joy, health, offerings, longevity and the harvest. Her symbols are beer and corn.

The Ugandan creatrix of life, Meme was also the first woman of the region. In Her human form She taught shamans the art of healing, and She continues to be called upon to aid in all matters of health and wellbeing.

The Misisi Beer Festival in Uganda takes place right after the millet harvest, with a plethora of beer, plantain, bullock and chicken. Any of these foods can be added to your diet today in thankfulness for Meme’s providence.

Follow Ugandan custom and join with your family or friends. The eldest member of the gathering should pour a libation to the ground in Meme’s name and then offer the rest to those gathered. This mini-ritual ensures long life and unity for everyone. It also ensures a good harvest the next year (of a literal or figurative nature).

To inspire Meme’s health or request her aid in overcoming a specific fall malady, carry a corn kernel with you today, and consume corn during your dinner meal. Bless the corn beforehand to ingest this Goddess’s vitality.

“Egungun-Oya’s " “Egungun-Oya’s themes are destiny, death, ghosts, divination, foresight and truth.

Her symbols are dance and fire. The Yoruban Mother of the Dead and mistress of spiritual destinies, Egungun-Oya helps us peek into our own futures, being a Goddess of fate. Traditionally She is venerated through folk dances that show Her guiding spirits in the afterlife with the flames of truth in one hand.

Conscious Life Magazine

“Asase Yaa’s themes are death, truth, morality, fertility, and the harvest. Her symbol is soil. In West Africa, Asase Yaa means ‘old woman earth’. As such, She governs the soil’s fertility, and consequently, the harvest. This Goddess represents the earth’s womb, who gives us birth and to whom we all return at death. In life She presides over and motivates truth and virtue; upon death, She cares for and judges our spirits. Thursday is the traditional day for honoring Her in the sacred space.

Asase Yaa (pronounced ‘ah-sah-see-yah’, and means ‘mother earth’) “is the earth Goddess of fertility of the Ashanti people of Ghana. She is the wife of Nyame the sky god. She gave birth to two sons, Bea and Tano. However, in their folklore She is also the mother of Anansi the trickster god. Asase Yaa is very powerful, though no temples are dedicated to Her, instead She is worshipped in the fields.

“Inna’s

themes are harvest, offering, protection, promises and justice. Her symbols are yams and harvested foods. In Nigeria, Inna ensures an abundant yam harvest for the Yam Festival, as well as good crops for farmers who honor Her. During the summer months, She appears as a protectress who oversees our lands, homes, promises and all matters of justice. Oaths taken in Inna’s name are totally binding.

Conscious Life Magazine

Conscious Life Magazine

Quinoa Vegetable Soup with Kale This healthy homemade vegetable soup is full of veggies, kale and protein-packed quinoa. Simple, healthy and yielding freezer-friendly leftovers, this soup makes a great weekly staple.

Ingredients: • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

3 tablespoons coconut oil 1 onion, chopped 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped 2 celery stalks, chopped 1 to 2 cups chopped seasonal vegetables, like zucchini, peppers, sweet potatoes or butternut 6 garlic cloves, crushed ½ teaspoon dried thyme 1 can diced tomatoes 1 cup quinoa, rinsed thoroughly 1 can kidney beans or chickpeas, rinsed and drained 1 cup or more chopped fresh kale or collard greens, tough ribs removed 1 teaspoon lemon juice 4 cups vegetable broth 2 cups water 1 teaspoon salt, more to taste 2 bay leaves Pinch red pepper flakes Freshly ground black pepper cheese or thinly sliced Kalamata olives

Method: • Warm the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, celery, seasonal vegetables and a pinch of salt. Cook until the onion has softened, about 6 to 8 minutes.

• Add the garlic and thyme. Cook for about 1 minute, then add in diced tomatoes and cook for a few more minutes, stirring often.

• Pour in the quinoa, broth and water. Add salt, bay leaves and red pepper flakes. Season generously with freshly ground black pepper. Bring mixture to a boil, then partially cover the pot and reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer.

• Cook for 25 minutes, then remove the lid and add the beans and the chopped greens. Continue simmering for 5 minutes or more, until the greens have softened.

• Remove the pot from heat, remove in bay leaves and stir in lemon juice. Taste and season with more salt and pepper to your liking.

Conscious Life Magazine

Creamy Chia Pudding Skip traditional sugar-laden pudding for this delicious and healthy alternative. Recipe yields 3 to 4 small servings.

Ingredients: • • • •

1½ cups water ¼ cup chia seeds 6 large dates ⅔ cup raw cashews (soaked if you don't have a high-powered blender) • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon • ½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract • Pinch of salt

Instructions: • In a bowl or jug, combine the water and chia seeds.

Set aside until the mixture forms a gel, about 20 minutes.

• If your dates need softening, place them in a bowl and pour hot water over them. Set aside for up to 20 minutes, or until the chia seeds are ready. Drain and pit.

• In a blender, combine the pitted dates with the cashews, cinnamon, vanilla and salt. Pour in the chia gel and blend thoroughly.

• Serve individual portions of pudding and top with any garnishes you'd like. Store leftovers in the refrigerator.

Below.: Salvia Hispanica – Commonly known as Chia

Conscious Life Magazine

Actress, Anji Woodley is no stranger to the lights, the cameras and the action. But what she really enjoys doing….

COOKING! She shares with us one of her very own recipes.

Homemade Basil Pesto If you have grown an abundance of basil here is a yummy recipe that you can make as often as you want.

If you haven’t yet explored the wonderful world of home-grown herbs, you can simply buy a fresh bag of basil from your local supermarket.

“I am all about fresh, natural and wholesome ingredients!” says Anji.

Ingredients: • • • • •

2 handfuls of basil leaves 1 small pack 50/75 gram pack of pine nuts 4 tbs olive oil 1/4 tsp fresh garlic Salt and pepper to season.

Instructions: • • • •

The method is incredibly simple…

Blend all together in a processor and Voilà basil pesto!

Serve on toasted ciabatta, in a salad, with soup, or in a pasta like I did for Green Monday’s.

ENJOY!

Conscious Life Magazine

Granny's cures for coughs, sniffles, colds and flu

By Nature Fresh

Granny does not get colds and flu anymore.

She shares her secrets with us.

Hulda Regher Clarke was a remarkable natural health researcher who was able to prove that the cold is spread by the adenovirus group. So obviously antibiotics are not going to kill them. What will? There are a number of natural substances that can knock out infections caused by viruses and olive leaf and fresh ginger are some of the most potent of these.

So at the first sign that somebody is coming down with a sniffle Granny makes a fresh juice out of fresh olive leaves that she picks from her trees. They must be fresh, she says, otherwise you kill the active components that kill viruses. The same applies to ginger. She adds slices of fresh ginger, water, honey and lemon juice to a handful of olive leaves in her blender.

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Juice is squeezed through an old cloth and given to members of the family to drink. She has not had a cold for about two decades, so now we understand why. But what about a bacterial infection? She laughs and points to her propolis tincture. I just add half a teaspoon of that and a few drops of Lugol's iodine to the juice and then I have something that works like an antibiotic. it has the same side effects in that the gut bacteria are also destroyed and one has to replace them with probiotics. She even makes her own sauerkraut and somehow it is part of her protocol - using fermented foods the old fashioned way.

Here are some more helpful old home remedies.

Coughs and sore throat Mix a tablespoon of honey with a tablespoon of lemon juice and a teaspoon of powdered cinnamon and ginger. Keep it handy and have a little bit when your throat feels rough.

Liquorice sweets are soothing to the throat and help to loosen a tight cough. Liquorice drops can be added to the honey and lemon juice mixture.

You can also sip a glass of hot water with a teaspoon of the mixture every two hours. It is nice to add a few slivers of fresh ginger and a slice of lemon to the drink.

For a mouth and throat gargle stir a teaspoon of the honey mixture into half a glass of warm water and add a pinch of salt. Gargle well and spit it out. Use the gargle mixture for sniffing up into the nostrils if they are congested. You can chew fresh sage or nasturtium leaves and they taste better with a little honey. The leaves contain natural antibiotics that kill germs. Chewing a lot of parsley is good for a sore throat as it contains a lot of chlorophyll that works like an antiseptic.

Conscious Life Magazine

Preventing colds and flu.

Garlic is one of the oldest and best known kitchen medicines. Eating one or two cloves of garlic every day helps some people to ward off colds and flu, but chew a lot of parsley afterwards. We need to boost our immunity at all times and this is why we eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables every day.

Try to avoid dairy products, bread, pasta, cakes and sweets because they make the system acidic and this can cause mucous in the nose and chest.

Herbs like Olive leaf and Artemisia Afra help to boost the immune system. Olive leaves attack the cold and flu virus head on and can even prevent a cold from developing. If you don’t have olive leaf tablets or drops, chew one or two olive leaves or you can wrap them in a cloth, bruise them and add to fresh fruit juice. Vitamin C helps to eliminate many pathogens that relate to colds and flu. Add Olive leaf supplements, Echinacea, vitamin C and zinc supplements to your shopping list.

Easing a tight chest and stuffy nose To a pot of boiling water add: 1 tablespoon of bicarbonate of soda and 1 tablespoon of hydrogen peroxide. Lean over the pot and inhale the fumes with a towel over your head for 10 minutes. You feel wonderful afterwards, especially if you splash your face with cold water.

Repeat a few hours later. This is a very effective decongestant and boosts the oxygen levels at the same time. The used pot of water can be used in your evening bath.

Make a steam inhaler with a pot of boiling water. Add sprigs of fresh thyme and mint to the water. The vapor eases nose and chest congestion. You can also use a few drops of mint or eucalyptus oil. After you have finished, tip the mixture into your bathwater for a steam bath.

An old remedy for a tight chest and a bad cough is a combination of onions and honey. Grate up two onions and place them in a jam jar. Mix in a pinch of salt and a tablespoon of honey.

Allow the juice to accumulate at the bottom of the jar and take a few teaspoons of this instead of a cough mixture. Make a new mixture every day and use the old grated onions for cooking.

Conscious Life Magazine

celery Juice: Two Ways If you've been following my work for any amount of time, you probably know that one of the things I most often recommend for healing is to drink straight celery juice daily. It might seem simple, but that's the best part - it is simple. With just some celery and a way to juice it, you can transform your health and digestion in as little as one week. Celery juice is that powerful for healing.

I have shared the many benefits of celery juice with you before, but my team and I get a lot of questions around how to make it, how much to drink, and when is best to drink it. That's why we created a short video showing you two methods for making celery juice that only take a minute. Just click this link to watch http://bit.ly/1Tx62AE

For best results, aim for 16oz of celery juice every morning on an empty stomach. If you find that is too much for you at first, even 4 or 8oz per day is a wonderful start. Over time you can work up to 16oz per day.

It's very important that you have your celery juice on an empty stomach. The best time is in the morning before you've eaten breakfast. This allows for optimal digestion and healing benefits.

I hope you enjoy the video and see how simple it can be to incorporate this powerful healing tool.

Watch now: http://bit.ly/1Tx62AE

Learn more about which foods can heal and restore your body in my new book, click here http://bit.ly/MM-book www.medicalmedium.com

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While basic trail mixes have been around for many years, usually based around fried peanuts etc, On The Go is a premium market brand using a wide range of choice grade fruits and nuts.

With interesting inclusions such as swirls, lemon twists, yoghurt drops, we have created a unique taste sensation.

Proud Sponsor of AVAILABLE AT THESE FINE STORES

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Contact On the Go Tel: +27 31 569 5424 admin@weronthego.co.za www.weronthego.co.za

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bone strengthening exercise

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TV Personality, Author, Lifestyle & Wellness Expert www.lisaraleigh.co.za lisa@lisaraleigh.co.za www.facebook.com/LisaRaleighSAFacebook LisaRaleighSA – Twitter LisaRaleighTV – YouTube

With Lisa Raleigh

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Try these three moves at home to sculpt lean legs: Stand with dumbbells in each hand and palms facing forward. With feet wide apart and toes pointed out, sink into a pliĂŠ squat. Pause for a moment then rise back up to your starting position. Aim for 3 sets of 10-15 reps.

Stand with your feet hip-width apart and forearms stacked at shoulder height. Take a big step back and to the side with one foot, sinking down into a curtsy. Pause for a moment then rise up and pull your back leg up and out to the side in front of you. Lower back down to your starting position and repeat with the opposite leg. Aim for 3 sets of 10-15 reps.

With one arm up in the air, step the opposite leg back and sink into a deep runners lunge. Rise back up and sweep your back leg forwards and across your body, drawing your raised elbow down to meet it.

Pause for a moment then return to your starting position. Aim for 3 sets of 10-15 reps on each side.

Conscious Life Magazine

5 Exercises to Strengthen Your Eye Muscles and Improve Your Vision

by Steven Aitchison 1.Blinking

2.Palming

Blinking is an often overlooked yet simple way to keep your eyes fresh and being able to focus longer. Computer users and television watchers tend to blink less, especially when they are intently focused on something. Try it just now as a simple exercise. For the next two minutes blink every 3 – 4 seconds. After you have done this for two minutes, mentally take note of how your eyes feel, are they strained, relaxed, tired. Now try and not blink for 30 seconds at a time for two minutes. Do you feel any difference?

This is done to relieve stress around the eyes and as a way to relax your eyes whilst taking a computer break.

Whenever you blink your eyes are going into a brief period of darkness which helps to keep your eyes fresh and discharges previous information ready for new information, this helps to reduce eye strain.

Your blink rate can also help with your communication skills. Think about someone who looked at you intently and you possibly felt threatened by them. What you may have missed is the fact that they had stopped blinking. When someone stops blinking and stares at you when you are talking it’s a sign of aggression. However whenever you are talking to someone and they are blinking at a 3 -4 second interval it’s a sign of a relaxed and friendly listener. Check out people’s blink rates the next time you are talking.

Conscious Life Magazine

Instructions for palming 1.

Take a few deep breathes before you begin.

2.

Make yourself comfortable whilst leaning forward on a desk or with your elbows resting on your knees. Close your eyes.

3.

Place your two hands over your eyes with the cup of your palm covering your eyes, your fingers on your forehead and the heel of your hand will rest on your cheekbone.

Make sure you can blink freely and you are not putting too much pressure on your eyes.

4.

That’s it. Palming gives you the opportunity to rest your mind and your eyes for a few minutes at a time. It may not sound much of an exercise but it can make a big difference in your working day if you stop for a few minutes and do this exercise.

3.Figure of eight This is to exercise your eye muscles and increase their flexibility. This is quite a simple exercise but a good one.

Imagine a giant figure of eight in front of you about 10 feet in front of you. Now turn the 8 on it’s side. Now trace the figure of eight with your eyes, slowly. Do it one way for a few minutes and then do it the other way for a few minutes.

It may seem very alien at first but it’s worth persevering with it.

4.Near and far focusing This is one of my favourite exercises as you can do it almost anywhere, I say almost as I couldn’t imagine doing it whilst stuck in traffic without getting strange looks from those around me.

5.Zooming This is another one of my favourites as it is very easy and quick to do.

Instructions for zooming 1.

Sit in a comfortable position

2.

Stretch out your arm with your thumb in the hitchhike position

Instructions for Near and far focusing.

1.

Sit in a comfortable position, or stand, this will only take 2-3 minutes at a time.

3.

Focus on your thumb as your arm is outstretched.

2.

Put your thumb about 10 inches in front of you and focus on it.

4.

Now bring your thumb closer to you, focusing all the time, until your thumb is about 3 inches in front of your face.

3.

Now focus on something else about 10 – 20 feet in front of you. .

On each deep breath switch between focusing on your thumb and the 10-20 feet object in front of you.

5.

Now move your thumb away again until your arm is fully outstretched.

6.

Do this for a few minutes at a time throughout the day.

4.

5.

This will strengthen the muscles in your eyes over time and improve your vision overall.

This exercise will strengthen your focusing skills and your eye muscles in general.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR Steven Aitchison is a Facebook Coach | Co-Creator of GuidedMind | Creator of The Magic | Creator of One of the largest personal development Facebook Pages with over 1.6 million followers and Author of 100 Ways to develop Your Mind. www.stevenaitchison.co.uk

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swinging ideas

Conscious Life Magazine

Conscious Life Magazine

The planet is in danger of being destroyed by our greatest threat, ourselves!!!! It’s up to all of us to ensure we do not destroy the environment in which we live and the future environment in which our children will live.

Recycling is as simple as separating home waste and educating our children to do the same.

If we all take this step, it will make a huge difference to our environment and ensure that the various recyclables are recycled and disposed of in the correct manner or sent to the correct facilities for re-use.

Recycling is a great way to save our natural resources and even generate energy.

At ECOmonkey they are taking the first important step to try and minimise harmful waste left in our environment, by working with communities to clean up our surroundings, namely local parks and streams to create a clean environment and further creating employment opportunities through this initiative.

Earth Probiotic help you to recycle your food waste into food for the soil with their Bokashi Recycling Kits.

Working together, these two companies do a great job in helping to ensure the health of the planet. Let them help you do the same…

We make a difference…

Do you???

Let's take the 1st step in creating a cleaner environment & ensuring our children have a brighter, cleaner future...

We collect your recycling & create employment: We collect & deliver the materials to various, community recycling projects we support, the materials are sorted & the income goes directly to the community members involved.

Who do we service?

Households, flats, townhouse complexes, estates, office complexes, industrial companies & shopping centres.

Ensuring recyclables are processed correctly & don’t end up on unsightly, dirty & negatively impacting land fill sites.

www.ecomonkey.co.za

Conscious Life Magazine

The immune system of cats, dogs and horses is the ‘security’ system of their bodies. It is constantly monitoring the body and recognizes foreign substances (e.g. bacteria, viruses etc).

Anything that does not belong to the body will be picked-up by the immune system’s ‘radar’, and the immune system will then go into defence mode to eliminate these foreign substances from the body.

The first line of defense of the immune system, is the skin, stomach acid, special chemicals in the saliva, mucous in the respiratory system, as well as certain cells in the body that will basically eat anything foreign that is in sight. Together they form the first line of defense, and have been designed to more or less keep everything out. Similar to high walls, electric fences, alarm systems and burglar bars, in our homes!

“Should the first line of defence not succeed…”

Should the first line of defence not succeed in eliminating the foreign intruder, then the second line of defence will be activated. This is a far more specific and targeted to fight off the specific foreign invader. In this phase various parts of the immune system communicate with each other, and develop and retain a memory of the invaders that they encounter. This helps the immune system to respond faster and greater, should a second similar invasion occur, and prevent the disease.

Conscious Life Magazine

There are two main ways in which mammals can acquire immunity. Firstly they acquire some immunity passively through antibodies received via the placenta when still in utero, as well as through antibodies received from the colostrum present in their mother’s milk. This provides only temporary protection, as these antibodies break down through natural aging or get depleted by fighting-off disease causing organisms.

Secondly the animal can build-up its own antibodies naturally through exposure to disease causing foreign invaders (or through vaccination). It is this adaptive portion of the immune system that remembers previous encounters, and will therefore mount a faster and a more aggressive defense should subsequent exposure occur.

“There are two main ways in which mammals can acquire immunity”

“…new-borns who do did not receive adequate amounts of colostrum are also immunodeficient.”

Genetic defects, as well as some viral infections (feline immunodeficient virus and canine parvovirus) can cause immunodeficiency. Similarly new-borns who did not receive adequate amounts of colostrum are also immunodeficient. They are in great danger of contracting a number of infectious diseases.

We can boost our pet’s immune system naturally by ensuring that they get adequate nutrition through a natural and healthy diet, as poor nutrition can also result in the suppression of the immune system. Just as we as human beings get ‘run-down’ and need from time to time an immune booster, our pets also benefit tremendously from some natural remedies to combat a depleted or weakened immune system.

“We can boost our pet’s immune system naturally…”

If your pet is suffering from repeated bouts of infection, or chronic allergic reactions, it will be advisable to give them something additional to boost their immune system. Long-term use of certain medication can also affect your pet’s immune system.

It goes without say that one should consult your vet to see what is amiss. Eco-Immune (from Eco-Vet) is one of those pet first aid remedies (along with Heal) that should always be on hand.

Neonatal diseases, Feline Aids, Parvovirus, African Horse Sickness, Strangles, West Nile Virus are but a few diseases where Eco-Immune has been recommended in conjunction with some of the other Eco-Vet natural remedies, to reduce the severity of the disease.

Take care of your pet’s immune system so it can function optimally to ward off disease, and keep him in tip-top condition.

We love animals, NATURALLY Erika Bornman CEO-Eco-Vet www.ecovet.co.za

Conscious Life Magazine

What did Loki say to Mowgli that made her laugh?

1st Frame: Loki: “Did you see we getting fish for dinner?”

2nd Frame: Loki: “Well! Did you?” annoyed look.

3rd Frame: Mowgli: “Yes. And I ate yours. Wahahaha” Loki: (In thought bubble) “Typical” Congrats to Lisa Southin for winning this awesome Eco Vet hamper valued at R1270!!

In the Hamper: Eco-Geriat 50ml, Eco-Teeth 50ml, Eco-Hair 50ml, Eco-Joint 200ml, and a Surprise product.

Conscious Life Magazine

Conscious Life Magazine

Medical Medium: Secrets Behind Chronic and Mystery Illness and How to Finally Heal

by Anthony William Anthony William, Medical Medium, has helped tens of thousands of people heal from ailments that have been misdiagnosed or ineffectively treated or that doctors can’t resolve.

He’s done this by listening to a divine voice that literally speaks into his ear, telling him what lies at the root of people’s pain or illness, and what they need to do to restore their health.

His methods achieve spectacular results, even for those who have spent years and many thousands of dollars on all forms of medicine before turning to him. Now, in this revolutionary book, he opens the door to all he has learned over his 25 years of bringing people’s lives back: a massive amount of healing information, much of which science won’t discover for decades and most of which has never appeared anywhere before.

Medical Medium reveals the root causes of diseases and conditions that medical communities either misunderstand or struggle to understand at all. It explores all-natural solutions for dozens of the illnesses that plague us, including Lyme disease, fibromyalgia, adrenal fatigue, chronic fatigue syndrome, hormonal imbalances, Hashimoto’s disease, multiple sclerosis, depression, neurological conditions, chronic inflammation, autoimmune disease, blood-sugar imbalances, colitis and other digestive disorders, and more. It also offers solutions for restoring the soul and spirit after illness has torn at our emotional fabric. Whether you’ve been given a diagnosis you don’t understand, or you have symptoms you don’t know how to name, or someone you love is sick, or you want to care for your own patients better, Medical Medium offers the answers you need. It’s also a guidebook for everyone seeking the secrets to living longer, healthier lives.

“The truth about the world, ourselves, life, purpose—it all comes down to healing,” Anthony William writes. “And the truth about healing is now in your hands.”

Conscious Life Magazine

Conscious Life Magazine

Real Concerts presents Johnny Clegg & Friends in Concert at Teatro, Montecasino on 15 & 16 July.

Johnny Clegg, one of South Africa’s most prolific musicians, with a career spanning more than 30 years will bring his electric energy to Johannesburg for a very special two-nightonly performance. The show will be opened by singer/songwriter Tailor; the three-times SAMA nominated songstress, who is famous for her energy as a live act. Tailor is a force to be reckoned with, her diverse voice will take you through an emotional yet happy journey which will leave you inspired.

It has been over three years since Johnny Clegg has performed at Teatro, Montecasino.

He returns with a show that promises to be a massive high quality production with all the best hits from Johnny Clegg, including Dancers and performances with Grammy winning Soweto Gospel Choir. Johnny will also be joined on stage by various musical friends such as Ross Learmonth of Prime Circle and Francois Van Coke, and stunning visuals which compliment Johnny’s hits throughout the years.

Johnny Clegg is hot off of his Spring Tour of North America, performing 35 shows in 42 days and travelled over 17,000 miles. He played in places like Alabama, Florida, Ohio, New York and Ontario amongst other places.

Johnny Clegg in Concert 15 & 16 July, 2016 at Teatro, Montecasino. Show starts at 8pm.

Tickets on sale now at Computicket.com/ 0861 915 8000

24 June, 2016 to 18 July, 2016

Arno Carstens live Event Date: 10 October, 2015 Arno Carstens will be performing LIVE at the Sasfin Plett Wine and Bubbly Festival on Sat 10th October at Plett Central Beach.

Date: Sat 10th Oct 2015 Time: TBA Venue: Central Beach - Plett Cost: R200 includes entry to Wine Festival and more Friday and Saturday festival goers will also enjoy the cheerful music of “The Sounds of Joy”, Plett’s popular Tigger Reunert, legendary Wendy Oldfield and Stellenbosch muso, Gerald Clark.

Friday’s performance will also include SAMA award-nominated Josie Field. The musicians will be complemented by the sounds of the surf on Central Beach during the 2nd annual Sasfin Plett Wine & Bubbly Festival on 9-10 October.

Click here to Book Tickets to Arno’s performance on the Saturday night

Rocking the Daisies Music and Lifestyle Festival is South Africa’s award-winning premier, eco friendly music festival. Marked on the South African calendar as the go-to weekend event to officially kick off the summer season, with a massive lineup that includes some of the best artists in South Africa and from around the world.

Incorporating comedy, art, film and a variety of multi-faceted and multi-sensory experiences, festival goers can expect an action-packed weekend of camping, good times, making incredible memories and jamming from dusk till dawn.

From 6-9 October at Cloof Wine Estate in Darling, make sure you join us for one of the biggest and best Daisies yet. With entertainment being our key focus this year, expect 4 action packed days and an adventure of a life time.

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CHRISTMAS COMES EARLY IN JULY WITH LCN HAMPERS CONSISTING OF:  Christmas Deluxe – Spa white Tea Hand Cream 30ml  Christmas Deluxe – Apple crumble Hand Cream 30ml  Christmas Deluxe – Pine Wood Foot Cream 30ml  Christmas Deluxe – Nail File  Christmas Deluxe – Apple Crumble Care Pen  Brilliant Power ‘Peach’ 8ml Nail Care  ‘Knitting Wool’ 8ml Nail Polish  ‘My Treasure’ lip Gloss

The hamper’s Value: R1300

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HOPE BEGINS WITH YOU Get ready for Sunflower Day: 16 September 2016 A new era has dawned for The Sunflower Fund, bringing with it fresh and exciting new transformations.

Along with the new tagline “Hope begins with you”, the organisation has given National Bandana Day a complete facelift. The Sunflower Fund together with our key sponsor, Pick n Pay are delighted to announce a brand new campaign, called “Sunflower Day”, which will be celebrated on the third Friday of September annually.

The campaign will run from August to the end of September, with the highlight being “Sunflower Day”, which will take place on 16 September in 2016.

The organisation’s iconic bandana has also undergone a significant change. Earlier this month, we unveiled our new commemorative product, known as the Tube of Hope - Tope, a revitalised version of the bandana, reflecting the renewed enthusiasm and excitement for our mission of increasing the number of stem cell donors in South Africa!

With its unique design, the Tube of Hope - Tope is an affordable, multipurpose article of clothing that can be worn as a headband, mask, scarf, cap or arm-band. Being broadly versatile, it may be used in a wide variety of sports or outdoor activities and will be available in 6 eye catching colours. The Tope offers practical functionality for the entire family. It also gives wearers the opportunity to show their support for this important cause.

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It will be available in a children’s size (R20.00 incl VAT) and an adults’ size (R25.00 incl VAT) and will go on sale at Pick n Pay stores nationwide, Round Table and several other retailers, including online store, Zando, in August 2016.

Please join in and celebrate Sunflower Day, launching on 7st August 2016, as Hope really does begin with you!

Ways you can help is to support the Sunflower Day campaign and buy your Tope, become a donor, or visit: www.sunflowerfund.org.za and click on the DONATE button to make a quick and easy cash donation.

ALANA JAMES CEO: The Sunflower Fund

HOPE BEGINS WITH YOU About The Sunflower Fund The Sunflower Fund, a South African NonProfit Company (NPC), is dedicated to creating awareness, educating the public and handling the registration process for people to join the South African Bone Marrow Registry (SABMR).

The Sunflower Fund pays for the test cost of people joining the SABMR. This is fundamental to saving the lives of thousands of South Africans each year. The chance of finding a matching donor is 1 in 100,000 – and as ethnic origin plays a significant role in the search for a donor, South Africa’s rainbow nation is at a distinct disadvantage, requiring a large pool of prospective donors.

The aim of The Sunflower Fund is to increase the number of donors on the current registry to at least 400,000 with proportionate representation of the four main ethnic groups in South Africa.

Should you wish to become a donor, support one of the fundraising projects or make a financial contribution, please contact The Sunflower Fund on toll-free number: 0800 12 10 82.

Visit www.sunflowerfund.org.za to learn more or look out for the DONATE button to make a cash donation via the website.

Media contact: Lauren Corlett Tel: (021) 701-0661 / Cell: 082 688 4788 Email: lauren@sunflowerfund.org.za

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with much appreciation to our advertisers, contributors, endorsers and our readers namaste

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