Naturally Savvy

What do you want your life's work to be?Have you ever been stuck in a job that you feel neutral or even depressed about? You may have had a feeling that you weren't fulfilling your true calling.  One question to ask yourself to get out of this rut is this: what do you want your life's work to be? Jennifer Noel Taylor, author of Love Incorporated: The Business of Doing What You Love, joins host Andrea Donsky to share what inspired her to follow her own dream, as well as how you, too, can learn to do what you love. Jennifer also discusses her work with energy healing.

The goal of the Day Off Diet is to no longer be handcuffed to a diet that causes you to pull out of your life.If you've already faltered with your New Year's resolutions, you may have deemed yourself a failure. Having that attitude will definitely not help your cause. Registered Dietitian Ashley Koff says that "as soon as you acknowledge yourself as a failure, you can no longer realize success." The recurring pattern of making resolutions and not sticking to them is one of the reasons Koff jumped on the "Day Off Diet" program with other nationally recognized health experts, including Dr. Oz. The premise of the Day Off Diet is that you get one day per week to fall off the wagon; however, the next day you get right back on.... because, no matter what, life is going to happen. It's not your fault when circumstances are out of your control.  Koff says that the goal is to no longer be handcuffed to a diet that causes you to pull out of your life. You still have to put in the effort, but you do have that wiggle room. Listen in as Koff joins host Andrea Donsky to share more about the Day Off Diet, including how it is structured, how you can get involved, and why it's working so well.

Dr. Bhupendra O. Khatri fears the essential doctor-patient relationship is in peril of being destroyed."Doctors today often depend more on computers than on their own instincts and experience in caring for patients. We are now pulled in so many different directions that it's no wonder the major complaint of patients is that their doctors do not spend enough time with them." Those are the words prominent neurologist, Dr. Bhupendra O. Khatri, uses to describe practicing medicine in today's digital age... meaning that it is so highly regulated and changing that it adversely affects the patient-doctor relationship. In fact, he fears this essential relationship is in peril of being destroyed.  In his newly published book, Healing the Soul: Unexpected Stories of Courage, Hope, and the Power of the Mind, Dr. Khatri explores the power of the subconscious mind in healing. Stories of spirit, valor, and inexplicable medical miracles reflect his 30 years of practicing medicine and treating patients with complex neurological disorders such as MS. Simultaneously, Dr. Khatri discusses the sobering challenges inherent in practicing medicine today. These include the influence of the healthcare industry, healthcare insurance, government regulations concerning pain treatment, an increasing reliance on electronic health records, and the rise in alternative medicine/options. Encouraged by many colleagues, journalists, and patients to share his stories as well as his research into the many issues he raises, Healing the Soul sheds light on little-known contradictions in the U.S. healthcare system, while highlighting what Dr. Khatri calls "the incredible power of the subconscious to heal, postpone death, and deal with unspeakable circumstances." He comments, "Healing the Soul is intended as a reminder that there is no substitute for observation, listening, and touching if you truly want to heal your patients' souls as well as their bodies." Listen in as Dr. Khatri joins hosts Andrea and Lisa to discuss the importance of healing patients from all perspectives.

What truly occurs in the depths of your unconscious mind?So many people are suffering because of a lack of a deep inner life. But, the world of dreams, intuitions, feelings, even visionary encounters can bring you wonder and great wisdom.  For over a hundred years, in psychotherapy rooms across the globe, therapists have helped their clients interact with their deeper selves. While this therapeutic context is, and continues to be, a great service to the world, you need not shut yourself off from your personal experience of inner life. According to Dr. Mary Harrell, author of Imaginal Figures in Everyday Life: Stories from the World Between Matter and Mind, it's time for the nurturing of soul life to move beyond the consulting room.  Suffering, the inescapable common denominator of the human condition, is never pleasant. But, Dr. Harrell says that if you tend it well, that very suffering can transform into human compassion and love. It is so common that during times of suffering the imaginal world, animated by a host of figures, guides you in finding your personal path to transformation.  The confounding and increasing violence in the world, especially as expressed in mass shootings, is signaling a need to return to the deep wellspring of inner life. The trustworthy guides in the imaginal can become the antidote to isolation and confusion that results in so many young people who become lost to themselves.  Listen in as Dr. Harrell joins hosts Andrea and Lisa to share more about her book, as well as what can occur in the depths of the unconscious and why it's so important to acknowledge its importance.

With all of the fad diets and diet "buzz words" out there, choosing one can be overwhelming and confusing.Have you ever jumped into a diet without really researching it? You wouldn't be alone. With all of the fads and diet "buzz words" out there, choosing one can be overwhelming and confusing. For instance, many people have jumped on the "gluten-free" wagon with the hopes of losing weight. However, many gluten-free products contain more fat and calories than foods with gluten and may cause weight gain instead of weight loss. Carol Alt follows a raw diet for her health, as well as to maintain her optimal weight. But, she agrees it may not be the best fit for everyone. Every person is different; the key is to truly understand how your body responds to various foods. Listen in as Carol joins host Andrea Donsky to share more about finding the right diet for you.

Most (if not all) conventional deodorants and antiperspirants contain harmful chemicals and other toxic ingredients.Your body absorbs 60 percent of what you put on it, and that includes your deodorant or antiperspirant.  Unfortunately, most (if not all) conventional deodorants and antiperspirants contain harmful chemicals and other toxic ingredients... some of which have been linked to cancer, birth defects, skin irritation, allergies, and more. These ingredients include: Aluminum: Clogs your pores and has been linked to breast cancer and higher risk of Alzheimer's disease.  Parabens: Hormone disruptors linked to early puberty and hormonal cancers, including breast cancer. Propylene Glycol: Damages your nervous system, liver, and heart. Main ingredient in antifreeze. Fragrance: Can hide hundreds of chemicals, including phthalates.  Sweating is good for your body, because it helps you eliminate these toxins. But, if you're using conventional deodorants and antiperspirants, you're putting those chemicals back in just as fast. If you're looking for a non-toxic deodorant, beware of the word "natural." This term is not overseen by any authoritative source. Instead, look for Certified Organic (not just "organic"). Certified Green Building Professional, Lisa Beres, joins Naturally Savvy hosts Andrea and Lisa to share more about the dangers of toxic deodorants, as well as some specific brands she loves to use as an alternative.

What does "getting clear" really mean?2016 is the "Year of Emergence."  What does that mean? Certified LifeLine Practitioner, Ariana Bahret, explains that ultimately it's a time when you can truly step into who you really are, as well as your purpose on this planet. It's what she calls "becoming clear," which can be accomplished through energy work, re-programming of the subconscious mind, remembering your truth, coming from a place of love instead of fear (in every life circumstance), and loving yourself unconditionally. How does energy healing factor in to this process? Bahret says that everything is energy; electricity is constantly running through you. Energy healing involves releasing or "clearing" lower vibrational energy that may be keeping you down. This allows you to get to a higher vibration, a state that's closer to how you came into the world... without judgement or negativity; with unconditional love and compassion.  Listen in as Bahret joins hosts Andrea and Lisa to share more about how you can get clear this year, as well as why Mercury retrograde is a good time to reflect and slow down, despite the bad reputation if often receives.

Could you go vegan for one month?Many people make the choice to go vegan or vegetarian for their health, but some individuals also make that decision based on a love for animals or to help protect the planet.  Launched in the UK in January 2014, Veganuary (pronounced vee-gan-uary) is a global campaign that encourages people to try vegan for January.  Veganuary aims to reduce the suffering of animals by inspiring and supporting people across the globe to go vegan. As a non-profit organization, Veganuary is dedicated to changing public attitudes, while providing all the information and practical support required to make the transition to veganism as easy and enjoyable as possible. Veganuary has had an incredible degree of success in a very short time and is changing lives all over the world. Clea Grady is Veganuary’s Marketing Manager. A vegetarian since the age of 12, she became a vegan after participating in Veganuary. Describing herself as “an unconscious vegetarian, but a very conscious vegan,” Clea is passionate about sharing information and ideas, and inspiring others to take part in Veganuary. Clea joins Andrea and Lisa to share more about the organization, as well as how you can get involved.

How can you make the most out of the coming year?With the new year comes exciting possibilities.  How can you make the most out of the coming year? A big part of that is discovering what you love and how to make more time for that. Oftentimes, it can be as simple as one word, such as "balance."  Another tactic is to identify your old belief systems and work on changing them. For example, if you're constantly berating yourself with negative self-talk, try listening to yourself like you are your own best friend. Would you say to a friend, "You're worthless" or "You can't do anything right"? Not likely. You need to learn how to speak to yourself in a loving way. Shaman Isabella Stoloff, founder of the Orange County Healing Center in Southern California, joins Naturally Savvy hosts Andrea and Lisa to share more about how you can make the most out of this year, as well as specific ways you can leave the negative behind.

Which smartphone apps will give you the best results?There are so many smartphone apps available these days, it can seem quite overwhelming to choose the ones that you'll actually use and benefit from.  Digital lifestyle enthusiast Kelly Wonderlin has a background in social media, marketing, and video, which has kept her up to date on the latest technology, apps, gadgets, how-to’s and more. Kelly joins Andrea and Lisa to share some of her favorite apps for managing your life, travel, and finances. LIFE Baby Connect: Keep a journal of every nap, dirty diaper and bottle. Keep your tiny one on a nice, consistent schedule. Life360: Use the GPS in your phone to track your family’s whereabouts. Time Hop: This app is designed to remind you of memorable moments in your life. It can track one, two, five, even 30 years back. Pet Phone: Here you can keep track of your pet's health and vet appointments. TRAVEL Foursquare: Check in at your location and see where your friends are. TripIt: Get organized for all your upcoming trips. Simply forward your travel confirmations to plans@tripit.com and TripIt automatically creates a detailed itinerary for you. MONEY Mint: Get a hold on your finances ASAP with Mint. Figure out where you are spending your hard-earned dollars.

The very concept of "change" can subconsciously indicate you're doing something wrong. Instead, Ashley Koff, RD, suggests focusing on exchanges.Transitioning into a new year can be inspiring, but it can also be discouraging. All around you are blasts encouraging you to change: "new year, new you" is just one of the popular phrases. But, the very concept of "change" can subconsciously indicate that you're doing something wrong. Instead, Registered Dietitian Ashley Koff suggests focusing on exchanges, not changes. Start off by thinking about what you're doing right or where you're finding success. Recognizing that will help you continue that success and promote forward movement. Also, decide how you want to invest your time and feel good about it. Don't beat yourself up for not cooking every meal for yourself or your family if you don't enjoy spending time in the kitchen. You can still focus on proper nutrition by incorporating certain ingredients in simple meals. One of Koff's favorite ingredients is hemp seed, which is what she calls a nutrient balance enabler. It's also a great source of protein (complete protein) and essential fatty acids, including the "glamour fatty acid," GLA. Listen in as Koff shares more nutrition nuggets, as well as her take on what the new year can mean for you.

Up to 60 percent of women are not getting enough magnesium on a daily basis.With our compromised soil and the over-processing of modern-day food, research suggests that there's been a 30-90 percent reduction in magnesium intake over the past few decades. And, up to 60 percent of women are not getting enough magnesium on a daily basis. Why is magnesium so important? According to Registered Dietitian, Ashley Koff, magnesium is like Mother Nature's muscle relaxant. Remember, you have many different types of "muscles" in your body... your heart is a muscle just as your bicep, and your entire digestive system works as a muscle to "move things through." Certain minerals, especially calcium, work in opposition of magnesium. Think of your digestive system. If you're combating your magnesium intake with calcium intake and it's out of balance, you may experience constipation. On the other hand, when that balance is corrected, you will feel the ease of healthy digestion. Koff says that magnesium in tablet or capsule form is not as effective, because your body needs to break it down first before it can be useful. She prefers either powder or liquid form. If you're looking to get some magnesium in food form, good news.... cacao (chocolate) is extremely rich in magnesium. Listen in as Koff joins hosts Andrea and Lisa to share more about the benefits of magnesium, as well as why it's so important for optimal health.

Whether you've fallen off the wagon or are starting to exercise for the first time, what is the best way to reach your fitness goals?Getting to the gym is one of the biggest resolutions people make in the new year. Whether you've fallen off the wagon or are starting to exercise for the first time, what is the best way to reach your fitness goals? Bedros Keuilian is the founder and CEO of the world's fastest growing indoor fitness boot camp franchise: Fit Body Boot Camp. He joins Andrea and Lisa to share his best advice for getting your best body, this year and beyond. First, Keuilian advises 30 minutes of high intensity interval training (HIIT), 3-4 days a week. This type of workout will burn up to 600 calories as well as create the after-burn effect for up to 32 hours post-workout. The key is to make sure you surpass the "fat burning" zone at points in your workout. Second, it's important to set short-term goals (30 days) as well as long-term goals (3-6 months). At Fit Body Boot Camp, the theme is "accountability and community," which sets the environment for success. You look forward to going, because you're with other people who are striving for their own goals. Third, the fastest path from A-Z in terms of weight loss/fat loss is HIIT and a proper diet. But, you will still get results if you aren't doing the high intensity training. And, you'll realize all the other benefits of fitness, such as stress reduction, better sleep, and more energy. Finally, Keuilian shares some tips for staying on track of your fitness goals: Plan out your workouts ahead of time to make sure you leave yourself enough time to get in a good workout. Don’t overdo the dieting; make sure you allow yourself a planned “cheat day” to reward yourself for your hard work. Don’t get discouraged if you miss a workout or two, just make sure to jump right back into your routine. Although you may eat more throughout certain times of the year, try to stay on a consistent eating schedule to keep your metabolism up and running. it’s okay to have dessert, just remember portion size and try not to overindulge in anything. If you can't get to the gym, be sure to get as much of a workout in as possible at home, even if it’s only a couple sets.

Why do some people have such sensitive skin?If you suffer from chapped, cracked, dry hands, redness and flushing, or if your skin is easily irritated by chemicals or other elements in the environment, you might have been diagnosed as having sensitive skin. Those individuals with eczema are especially subject to irritation. Dr. Cheryl Lee Eberting is a board-certified dermatologist and a past clinical research fellow of the Dermatology Branch of the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health (NIH). She has conducted years of research on the underlying causes of sensitive skin, and has discovered that certain individuals do not make the lipids necessary to optimize the skin barrier. Dr. Eberting has studied (and developed) technology which replaces these lipids and protects the pH of skin. These products both avoid the chemical reactions to ingredients of everyday products (itching, burning, redness, etc.) and address the underlying cause.  Listen in as Dr. Eberting joins hosts Andrea and Lisa to explain more about her research, the solutions she's developed, and how you can overcome sensitive skin to achieve skin that's youthful, soft, and free of wrinkles.

Whether you use coffee as a kick-start to your day or you drink it simply because you love the taste, there are certain health detriments you'll want to consider.Whether you use coffee as a kick-start to your day or you drink it simply because you love the taste, there are certain health detriments you'll want to consider before you pour your next cup. For instance, coffee is very acidic to the body. It takes 35 cups of alkaline water to neutralize one cup of coffee or cola. Also, even if your coffee is labeled "organic," it's difficult to guarantee that the beans were grown, harvested and shipped properly.  Coffee can put extreme distress on your adrenals, which can lead to all sorts of hormonal and body imbalances. True, coffee does have some benefits, such as its antioxidants, but so do things like fruits... particularly berries.   Many types of tea have caffeine as well, so if you're drinking coffee for the "kick," you can do it in a healthier way. Listen in as Carol Alt joins hosts Andrea and Lisa to share more about the problem of coffee, as well as ways you can get your "kick" in a healthier fashion.