Naturally Savvy

Orthorexia is a new term to describe the obsession with maintaining a healthy diet.When you've made the decision to get healthy, it's easy to get wrapped up in all your new habits. But, most people learn to back off and create balance. Certainly there's no such thing as being too healthy, right? Wrong. Orthorexia is a new term to describe the obsession with maintaining a healthy diet. While it hasn't been clinically diagnosed yet as an eating disorder, it has the markers of one.  Those who struggle with orthorexia are determined to eat clean. The initial goal may have started out to eat healthy and natural, but the obsession can lead to unhealthy behavior.  For example, these individuals become fearful of eating anything they don't prepare themselves. They may cut out complete food groups or eat the same thing every day. Concern develops around the connection of certain foods and negative health effects. "I ate grains and I'm tired, so it must be the grains making me tired." This is a way to validate cutting out foods. Feelings of shame and self-loathing bubble to the surface if they "mess up." Sufferers of orthorexia also want others to eat clean. This can create rifts in families and relationships. Even if someone with orthorexia doesn't intend it or is not conscious of it, she may give off a sense of superiority and appear judgmental of others' choices.  Marci Warhaft-Nadler, body image advocate and eating disorder survivor, joins hosts Andrea and Lisa to explain what orthorexia is and what steps you can take if you or a loved one is suffering from this disorder or any other disorder. She is also the founder of the Fit vs. Fiction body image workshops for schools. In the workshops, Marci uses images and real-life stories to break down the dangerous myths related to beauty and fitness in an image obsessed world.  "An eating disorder is a horrible thing to live with; it does not mean you're a horrible person for battling it," says Marci.

Medical Intuition involves powerful scanning techniques and visualization skills to identify the root causes of imbalances, illness and disease.Medical Intuition is a revolutionary new modality for fast intuitive health assessments and is a growing area of expertise for healthcare providers. Powerful scanning techniques and visualization skills identify the root causes of imbalances, illness and disease. This approach offers a unique perspective in mind/body medicine, as stand-alone techniques or as a support to any Integrative, Functional, Complementary and Alternative, and Holistic health care practice. Wendie Colter, Certified Master Healer, Medical Intuitive, Clairvoyant Practitioner, Teacher, Minister and Transformational Coach, joins hosts Andrea and Lisa to explain what Medical Intuition involves, as well as the training programs she offers through her company, The Practical Path.

There is growing evidence that translating stressful events into written language improves both brain and immune system functions.Through spontaneous writing with “loaded words” and person-to-person sharing, three women embarked on a transformative journey in which secretive and painful images and interpretations were exposed to the light, were accepted, and became less painful. Liz Crocker and coauthors Polly Bennell and Holly Book curated a collection of their writings and created an invitation to others suffering in their book, Transforming Memories: Sharing Spontaneous Writing Using Loaded Words. Whatever your past burdens, you can use the technique of spontaneous writing to address your own memories. Transforming Memories is not just for children of alcoholics, but for anyone who has experienced challenges or trauma in their lives. Alcohol abuse in a family is not the only experience that sets up feelings of abandonment, fear, emptiness, or constant guardedness. The healing effects of spontaneous writing are not trivial. In addition to offering emotional relief and a sense of burdens being lifted, there is growing evidence that translating stressful events into written language improves both brain and immune system functions. Liz joins hosts Andrea and Lisa to discuss the book, as well as share six tips to heal trauma through spontaneous writing. Sit down and write. Overcome your need to be perfect. Write about events you associate with stress or trauma. Write continuously for a short period of time. Use loaded words and phrases as writing prompts. Establish a ritual around writing.

"Fear ambushes me." Those words, written by Andrea Petersen in her book, On Edge: A Journey Through Anxiety, resonate with many individuals."Fear ambushes me." Those words, written by Andrea Petersen in her book, On Edge: A Journey Through Anxiety, resonate with many individuals. Andrea was a sophomore in college when she had her first noticeable encounter with anxiety. One moment she felt fine. The next, her heart rate spiked, she was short of breath and broke into a sweat, and was experiencing visual changes. She had an overwhelming terror that she was about to die. At the time, had no idea what she'd experienced was a panic attack. For the next month or so, she experienced those intense physical sensations and dread. Unfortunately, Andrea was not diagnosed correctly for a full year.  That was in 1990. There is more awareness now among the medical and general communities as to what anxiety entails. But, anxiety also manifests in physical symptoms that can mirror other conditions and confuse a definitive diagnosis. So many different factors can contribute to anxiety, including: Childhood trauma or illness (e.g., asthma or bronchitis) Adult trauma Certain kinds of parenting Genetics High-reactive temperament In the throes of anxiety, individuals may come off as selfish, because they're so consumed with their own worry and fear that they have no time or energy for anyone else. Andrea describes it as being in an isolation chamber, separated from those you love. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is one way to address symptoms. With CBT, you systematically and gradually expose yourself to the very things you're scared of in order to prove to yourself that the terrible things you believe will happen won't. Varieties of medication can also be helpful in the appropriate situations. Some medications work immediately to address panic attacks.  Natural techniques including yoga, mindfulness meditation, massage, or anything that grounds you in the present moment can help prevent relapse of attacks. One of the activities Andrea finds comfort and ease in is baking. Quality sleep is imperative for reducing both frequency and duration of anxiety spells. Listen as Andrea shares her own personal journey with anxiety, as well as options for managing symptoms in daily life.

The Twitter hashtag #theysaid recently went viral with the premise of women sharing hurtful and damaging statements said to them over the years.#theysaid This Twitter hashtag recently went viral with the premise of women sharing hurtful and damaging statements said to them over the years. "You'd be pretty if you lost weight." "No one likes fat girls." "I've seen you put away more pasta than an NFL linebacker." "I didn't know they made bras that small." "You should eat a sandwich." Some individuals can easily shake off such comments, but others can be impacted in a life-long damaging way. Body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) is often a devastating result. According to the Mayo Clinic, some symptoms of BDD include:  Being extremely preoccupied with a perceived flaw in appearance that to others can't be seen or appears minor. Strong belief that you have a defect in your appearance that makes you ugly or deformed. Belief that others take special notice of your appearance in a negative way or mock you. Engaging in behaviors aimed at fixing or hiding the perceived flaw that are difficult to resist or control, such as frequently checking the mirror, grooming or skin picking. Attempting to hide perceived flaws with styling, makeup or clothes. Constantly comparing your appearance with others. Always seeking reassurance about your appearance from others. Having perfectionist tendencies. Seeking frequent cosmetic procedures with little satisfaction. Avoiding social situations. Being so preoccupied with appearance that it causes major distress or problems in your social life, work, school or other areas of functioning. The disorder can even be as severe as entertaining suicidal thoughts. Joyce Knudsen, PhD, joins host Lisa Davis to explain what body dysmorphic disorder is, as well as ways to address the disorder and other body image struggles. 

Learn practical advice for approaching life in a more balanced, spiritually informed manner.Ellen Tadd believes that instead of relying on intellect or instinct, individuals should learn to perceive their circumstances through an objective lens, what she refers to as your “third eye.” Drawing on the counsel from her spiritual guides, Ellen provides practical advice for those seeking to approach life in a more balanced, spiritually informed manner. Listen in as Ellen joins host Andrea Donskey to share the following: Developing the skills of deep focus and deep listening. Tuning into others in order to understand their perspectives and needs. Integrating spiritual practice with chores and other daily tasks. Sustaining genuine positivity in order to protect ourselves from negative surroundings. Nurturing an attitude of “newness” in order to clear away our distorted perceptions.

Discover why “letting go” is the worst advice for healing, and how to really move on.Leah Guy believes that disconnection is the root of all fear, and the attempt at letting go causes more problems than it solves. Debunking the myth of detachment and other popular New Age ideologies, she emphasizes that there’s no escapism in emotional healing. Rather, the process is about putting the personal pieces of your heart, mind, and soul back together again. Her book, The Fearless Path, offers a radical approach that helps heal trauma, fear, heartache, and mental and physical health. Overcoming anxiety, sexual abuse, eating disorders, and addiction using the principles in the book, Leah has spent her life helping others find relief and freedom from personal afflictions. Listen in as Leah joins host Andrea Donsky to share information from the book, including: Why “letting go” is the worst advice for healing, and how to really move on. How to understand the stories your energy system tells about your mind, body, and spirit―and how to rewrite the script. How to transform fear and anxiety into love and inner peace. Why the law of attraction isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Find strength and serenity in the midst of a personal storm.

A severe deterioration is happening in the collective health of our nation's children. But, drugs should be a last resort, not an automatic response.A severe deterioration is happening in the collective health of our nation's children. 1 in 10 has ADHD (more than half received diagnosis by age six) 1 in 10 has asthma 1 in 9 has seriously contemplated suicide 1 in 8 suffers from depression 1 in 6 has been diagnosed with a developmental disorder 1 in 3 is obese or overweight 40 percent of kids under age 18 have food allergies Colitis has tripled, diabetes has quadrupled and Crohn's disease is up 79 percent Food choices have a lot to do with these spikes, particularly GMO foods (soy, corn), gluten and processed foods. You may see a significant shift by removing these foods from your kids' diets.  Fragrance and other chemicals in cleaning products, air fresheners, body sprays, deodorants, etc. is also a huge culprit.  Reducing screen time can even have a positive benefit for kids struggling with mental and emotional disorders. To reduce EMF exposure, turn phones to airplane mode at night, and switch off WiFi at night as well. Drugs should be a last resort, not an automatic response. Find a holistic pediatrician or other healthcare provider who will invest in your child's health. Beth Greer, Super Natural Mom®, joins host Andrea Donsky to explain the multi-factorial reasons for the rapid increase in kids' chronic disease, as well as viable options for addressing these conditions in a safe and natural fashion.

New research sheds light on the dangers of oxybenzone, a chemical found in conventional sunscreens.Natural sunscreens have always been the better choice. But, it's now known to be even more important to avoid chemical sunscreens in light of recent research indicating that oxybenzone, a harmful chemical used in many conventional sunscreens, is absorbed directly into the bloodstream. Oxybenzone has been associated with an increased risk of hormone disruption and closely tied to endometriosis and fertility problems in both adults and children. Mineral sunscreens are a viable natural alternative. Listen in as Nova Covington, Founder and CEO of Goddess Garden Organics, joins host Andrea Donsky to explain the dangers of conventional sunscreens, specific chemicals to watch for, and which natural sunscreens are good for both your body and the planet.

When you're not being mindful, you miss out on small moments that are often incredibly valuable... be it a beautiful park that you walk through on your journey to work or the taste and texture of a delicious meal.Many people find it difficult to simply appreciate the present moment. We either dwell on the past or worry about the future, moving mindlessly from one activity to the next. When you're not being mindful, you miss out on small moments that are often incredibly valuable... be it a beautiful park that you walk through on your journey to work or the taste and texture of a delicious meal. In mindfulness meditation you can pay attention to your ongoing experience, whether it is: Pleasant: appreciating a beautiful sunny day Unpleasant: a disagreement with a loved one Neutral: doing household chores. Anna Black's new book, The Little Pocket Book of Mindfulness, is the perfect introduction to mindfulness and is packed with easy-to-follow tips and suggestions that will allow you to incorporate simple mindful moments into your daily life. Listen in as Anna joins host Lisa Davis to discuss why being mindful is so essential to whole-body health, as well as tips from her book.

If you struggle with your eating habits, getting proper nutrition and achieving whole health is also a challenge.If you struggle with your eating habits, getting proper nutrition and achieving whole health is also a challenge. Joan Gregerson, Holistic Health Coach, thinks the answer lies in looking first at why you eat, then how, then what. It makes sense to say that the "why" is for survival, sustenance, nourishment -- essentially, living. Why is living important and why is your life, specifically, important? What is your purpose? What you eat should be the result of answering those questions. It's the key to figuring out how you can bolster your life with your food choices.  For example, choosing fast food creates a different world than sprouting your own seeds.  Listen in as Joan joins host Lisa Davis to explain her philosophy around food issues, as well as how you can set up an easy plan to get your habits on the healthy path. She also discusses "Finding Food Freedom" with these four points: Bioindividuality: What works for one individual may not work for another. Spirituality: Mindful eating, choosing food based on how it is raised and knowing how your choices impact the environment. Community: Overcoming isolation, loneliness and experiencing love; belonging and purpose is as important as food in keeping people healthy. Ingenuity: Looking to nature as a model to follow; the awe and elegance of eating... simply as people have done for thousands of years.

Most of us know how important it is to put good things in our bodies to help us stay strong. What if it was as easy as drinking tea daily?Most of us know how important it is to put good things in our bodies to help us stay strong. But, not everyone knows the best way to get those elements into a daily regimen. Bigelow Teas' newest line, Benefits, is designed to help support your well-being, all while allowing you to enjoy the amazing flavors for which Bigelow Tea is known. The line focuses on these seven health concerns: Calm Stomach Sleep Stay Well Balance Refresh Radiate Beauty Good Mood Listen in as Cindi Bigelow, CEO of Bigelow Tea, joins host Andrea Donsky to explain why the company developed this new line, as well as the benefits of each variety.

Motivation can be hard to come by, especially if you're living a stressed-out, frenzied life.Motivation can be hard to come by, especially if you're living a stressed-out, frenzied life. And, just because you accomplish tasks throughout the day, doesn't mean you have motivation. Joyce Knudsen, PhD, author of the book, Refusing to Quit, joins hosts Andrea and Lisa to share her five steps to ramp up your motivation. 1) Think about purpose. Most people don't have one, or aren't focused enough on one. Start by performing deeds that improve the lives of others. You can have more than one purpose, but you have to complete one before moving on to the next. 2) Pretend that you've already reached your goal. Visualize yourself achieving that goal. Focus on the appreciation of success, rather than the obstacles. 3) Talk to a positive and supportive friend. Social media can be a beneficial avenue for syncing up with people who are like-minded and who might be able to share their own experiences. Unfortunately, women are often unsupportive of other women, so seek out a support system that really cares and can lift you up. 4) Read inspiring books that feature success stories. There is an unlimited supply of information out there; find an author who speaks to you.  5) Create positive energy rituals. Start your day with a practice that clears your mind and sets the stage for the day, such as guided meditation.

Thinking of changing up your diet? Learn about five foods you might think you need to eliminate, but don't!Thinking of changing up your diet? Here are a few foods that you might think you need to give up, but don't! Dark Chocolate. Should be at least 70% dark. Aim for organic and fair trade. Eggs. Try to get pasture-raised, organic. Keep the yolk soft (sunny-side up). Cook in an oil with a high smoke point (avocado, tigernut). Healthy Fats. Get via foods such as avocado, as well as healthy oils. Helps to address inflammation. Potatoes. Contrary to popular belief, potatoes have a lot of powerful nutrients. Just don't load them with sour cream or melted cheese! Sweet potatoes are also incredibly healthy. Salt. Use Himalayan salt (pink, grey), which has a massive amount of minerals. Try to stay away from the typical table salt. Listen in as Naturally Savvy hosts Andrea and Lisa chat about the benefits of these five foods. Andrea also discusses some of the new trends that popped up in the most recent Natural Products Expo West.

We all get an itchy scalp from time to time, but imagine a burning, painful sensation (similar to a sunburn on your scalp) that never goes away.We all get an itchy scalp from time to time, but imagine a burning, painful sensation (similar to a sunburn on your scalp) that never goes away. It's a condition referred to as burning scalp syndrome. Unfortunately, many doctors have a hard time diagnosing (and thus treating) the condition, leaving sufferers frustrated and at their wits' end.  Symptoms include burning, itching, scalp sensitivity, pain when combing/brushing/styling, and may even result in hair loss. Causes of Burning Scalp Syndrome The number-one cause of burning scalp syndrome is chronic stress, whether from daily stressors or anxiety, depression, and even recovering from an injury.  A neuropeptide called Substance P is the culprit. Substance P is the key "first responder" to stresses in your life. When stress becomes chronic, Substance P builds up and becomes too excessive for your body to handle.  Aside from burning scalp syndrome, other issues such as restless leg syndrome, digestive woes, vaginal discomfort, hives for no reason, and even conditions such as fibromyalgia can all be caused by excessive amounts of Substance P. Treatment Options After studying the syndrome, Dr. Ward Bond has come up with certain protocols to address it. Your diet is extremely important. Eat as naturally as possible and stay away from artificial ingredients and bad fats. Good fats have been found to bring relief to some patients, particularly flax oil and borage oil. Magnesium is crucial as well. Low magnesium levels enable excess Substance P to respond. Dr. Bond prefers the Natural Vitality brand Natural Calm and advises to take it in morning and again in the evening. You can also ingest cayenne internally. This tricks the nervous system into thinking an injury has occurred, but triggers the release of excess substance P. Quercetin removes Substance P from the nervous system as well, and is also a natural antihistamine. Acetyl L-Carnitine gets the left and right sides of the brain to communicate more efficiently and also reduces Substance P levels. This improves focus and optimizes release of serotonin and dopamine. Regular exercise and stretching can also be beneficial, as well as focusing on the good in your life. Listen in as Dr. Bond joins hosts Andrea and Lisa to share information on burning scalp syndrome, the other health concerns associated with excess Substance P, and how you can use nutrition to address your symptoms.