Yoga for Lymph Flow : A Gentle Practice to Support Your I mmune System

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Yoga for Lymph Flow : A Gentle Practice to Support Your Immune System

By Tiffany Cruikshank, www.draxe.com Yoga for lymph flow isn’t a common topic, but with so many superbugs and contagious diseas es floating around thes e days, it ’s pretty astounding that one of the most critical components of our immune system — the lym phatic system — is so seldom talked about. The lympha tics, as sort of the passive circulatory system of our immune system, is one of our most potent innate tools offering protection from the daily challenges our internal physiology m eets. In ad dition to nutrition and sleep, yoga can be an effective and accessible tool to maintain a healthy lympha tic and immune system tha t doesn’t cost a lot of money or require any fancy products.

Why the Lymphatic System Is So Important The lymphatic system is an essential component of our immune system that helps eliminate toxins and waste from the body. You can think of it as your clean-up crew. Our lymphatics are responsible for transporting waste and toxins out of the tissues back to the bloodstream and regulating the immune response as a local communication mechanism within the tissues. Your lymphatic system creates an essential link for the immune cells to both monitor and respond to signals to increase or decrease immune and inflammatory responses. This also helps protect the body from threats like infections, bacteria and cancer while balancing fluid levels.

The first two areas contain lymph nodes right under the skin, whereas the abdomen houses deeper lymph nodes throughout the digestive tract. These lymph nodes are important to help trap pathogens so the immune system can promote a defense response. However, research suggests that lymphatic flow is also an important part of a healthy immune response.

How Yoga for Lymph Support Works An intelligently created system, the superficial lymph nodes are strategically congregated around the joints to allow the changes in pressure with movement to facilitate lymphatic flow through the nodes, bathing them in immune cells. The lymphatic system depends on this changing pressure to pump lymphatic fluid through the system with valves that keep fluids moving in one direction. The flow through these nodes is what drives our capacity to both mount an immune response and to sound the alarm for other needed immune cells.

Any sort of movement practice (gentle or vigorous) can act as an important pump for this system, however yoga can be especially helpful with its capacity to be both specific to these congregated lymph areas, regulating the breath as a pump and also helping to regulate stress which we know can dampen the immune response. Yoga adds in the component of gently compressing some of these more superficial lymph nodes to stimulate circulation of lymphatic fluid here.

The inversions add a powerful assist to the lymphatic flow of the extremities and torso that work against gravity. The use of diaphragmatic breathexercises and breath-centric movements in a yoga practice help to magnify the effects on the lymphatics as the diaphragm acts as a central pump for the deeper lymphatics.

Key Components of the Yoga for Lymph Support Practice To create a yoga practice targeted to lymphatic system support, keep these components in mind. The first and probably the most important is to focus on deep, relaxed breathing throughout, as this creates the internal pump driving this more passive system. Another thing to keep in mind is that our purpose is creating superficial circulation under the skin, so it’s important that all of the movement and breathing be done with a sense of ease rather than actively pursuing strength or flexibility as you might in other yoga classes.

The series of poses below incorporates both traditional practices and movements inspired by research. This practice is done in a specific order that helps to support lymphatic circulation, starting by releasing tissues around the thoracic duct as the main outlet for this system, so there’s an exit pathway for this lymphatic flow. Then, we move down through the torso, work our way out to the extremities and end back where we started to encourage good lymphatic drainage at the thoracic duct under the clavicles.

As with any movement practice, these movements should be pain free. If not, back off or stop and consult your healthcare provider before continuing. Though these practices are relatively safe, if you havea known illness, injury, cancer, lymphedema or significant health concerns, it’s Conscious Life Magazine

A Home Practice to Support Your Lymphatic System

Diaphragm Breathing

We’ll begin by freeing up the diaphragm as the central pump for our work here, something we’ll come back to during the practice. Start in a comfortable position on your back with your hands on your belly. As you inhale feel your belly expand and press into your hands, as you exhale feel your belly relax back toward the floor. Continue for 1 to 2 minutes, feeling your body drop back into the floor as you relax here.

Lymphatic Booster in Sukhasana(Easy Seated Pose)

This gentle, breath-guided movement helps to support lymphatic flow through the neck, under the clavicles and near the thoracic duct to free up the outlet for the lymphatics, creating an exit route for the toxins and wastes being eliminated through the lymph.

This is also a great one on its own to boost lymphatic flow around the nodes in the n eck if you’re feeling a bit run down or start to feel a sore throat coming on.

This one takes some extra time to wrap your head around, but once you get the movement, it’s a simple and effective one to come back to.

Start in an easy cross-legged position. I f this is difficult for you, try sitting on the edge of a pillow or bolster to elevate your hips. You can also sit on the edge of a chair with the feet flat on the floor.

Place your right hand on the floor or chair behind you, and your left hand somewhere along your right leg.

As you exhale turn your shoulders into a gentle twist to the right as you turn your head forward toward your left shoulder.

Stay here as you inhale lean your head back slightly to the left to feel a slight tug under the skin on the right side of the neck (to enhance this you can shrug your right shoulder down gently).

Stay for the exhale.

I nhale come back up to the starting position with your hands in the same place.

Repeat 5 times on one side, then repeat on the second side.

Interoceptive Belly Roll

This pose is helpful to stimulate the deeper lymph in the abdomen along with the diaphragm. Note: I t’s not a traditional sphinx pose, so the legs are relaxed and elbows are underneath you anywhere that feels comfortable. Conscious Life Magazine

Begin by rolling up a towel to about 2 to 3 inches in diameter. Place the roll across your yoga mat and lie on your belly with the roll across your belly. Make sure the roll is placed in the soft part of the belly, between the ribcage and pelvis.

Place your elbows on the floor anywhere that feels comfortable. Inhale as you press the belly into the roll, exhale as you relax the belly and let the roll sink into the belly.

Repeat for 1 to 2 minutes, relaxing a little more with each exhalation.

Low-Lunge Lymphatic Pumping

This gentle movement is a great way to pump the lymphatics through the arms and chest to encourage a healthy lymphatic flow and immune response.

Photo by Polina Tankilevitch

As you inhale, let your pelvis sink toward the floor as you take your arms out to the sides like a cactus and clench your fists, opening across the chest. (The key is making sure the hands reach above heart level as you clench the fist to pump lymph down the arms.)

As you exhale, release your hands and arms, relaxing them down by your sides as the hips come back.

Repeat 5 times moving slowly with the breath, then do the sameon the second side.

Think gentle, easy movement with the fists clenching and releasing to drive the lymphatics.

Bridge Pose

This common yoga pose provides a gentle backbend to stimulate the deeper lymphatics in the torso, along with a mild inversion to encourage lymphatic flow and some gentle compression to the lymphatics of the neck.

Start on your back with your knees bent and feet on the floor. Gently lift your hips and spine off the floor to a comfortable height as you press down through the arms and shoulders to feel a gentle lift and opening through the chest.

I f you’re comfortable here, you can clasp the hands behind your back to open the chest more.

Stay for 5 deep breaths, then slowly lower the hips to the floor.

Legs Up the Wall

Inversions are a great way to enhance lymphatic return back to the heart, an efficient way to support the lymphatics throughout the body.

To begin, roll a towel to about 3 to 4 inches in diameter.

Then, sit with one hip against the wall and your rolled towel nearby.

Carefully roll onto your back as you swing your legs up the wall.

Find a comfortable distance from the wall so your legs can easily rest on it.

Bend your knees and place your feet on the wall so you can lift your hips enough to place the roll under your pelvis there.

Then rest your pelvis on the roll and extend your legs up the wall to relax there.

Stay for 3 to 5 minutes, using your exhalations to help relax.

Supine Reclined Twist

Twists are a great traditional way to stimulate lymphatics through gentle compression. This one targets the thixotropic quality of the connective tissue in a gentle movement. Thixotropic means that the connective tissue becomes more liquid with movement and more viscous as we become sedentary. Since the lymph lives in the connective tissue, this more liquid environment allows for better lymphatic flow.

Begin on your back with your knees bent and your feet on the floor.

Walk your feet a little wider than your hips. As you exhale, let your knees gently swing to the right like a windshield wiper, keeping your feet on the floor.

Let the inhale come back in naturally as the legs come up. Then exhale swing the knees to the opposite side. As you continue, allow there to be as little effort as possible.

If you’re happy here, find a little momentum in the movement as you move more quickly (but still effortlessly).

Repeat for 2 minutes, then extend the legs for savasana.

Take a few minutes in a still savasana to take it all in and allow your body time to absorb the effects here.

Final Thoughts on Yoga to Support Your Lymphatic System

Yoga can be a simple, accessible way to support your lymphatics.

Deep diaphragmatic breathing acts as a pump for the deeper lymphatics.

Simple movements create changes congregate to drive lymphatic flow. in pressure around the joints where the lymph nodes

Simple breath-centric lymphatic flow. movements performed with ease can be a great way to encourage

Twists and simple inversions arean efficient way to support the lymphatics. Less is more with this more subtle system.

Tiffany Cruikshank (@tiffanycruikshank), L.Ac., MAOM, E-RYT, is the founder of Yoga Medicine® (@yoga_medicine), a community of teachers focused on fusing anatomy and western medicine with traditional yoga practices to serve the medical communities. She has trained thousands of teachers around the world and is regularly featured in major media outlets. An author with a background in acupuncture and sports medicine, Tiffany has worked with celebrities, athletes and corporate professionals alike in her own private clinics and Nike World Headquarters. Tiffany also founded and continues to run two nonprofits — one conducting research on yoga’s therapeutic benefits and the other supporting a shelter for women rescued from trafficking in Delhi, India. Conscious Life Magazine

The Sivananda School of Yoga was founded in 1956 by a small group in Johannesburg who were inspired by one of the greatest yogis of the twentieth century, Swami Sivananda of Muni Ki Reti, Himalayas. The School's voting members are the t rustees of its property, the committee, and currently serving teachers, who serve without remuneration. Shunning all the hybrid inventions, adaptations, and variously named "yogas" which have appeared in recent decades, our teachers are faithful to authentic Yoga in the Hindu tradition: the only Yoga the Sivananda School recognises as such.

Yoga Classes Hatha Yog a Morning Classe s:

Mon day, Wedn esday a nd Friday 09h00 10h30

Saturday and Sunday 08h30 - 10h00

Hatha Yoga Evening Classes: Monday to Friday 17h30 to 19h00

The m onthly subsc ription (see yoga fees) gi ves unlimited att endance t o all classes of every kind. New stud ents do not n eed to book for Hatha (yoga exerci se sessi ons); just arrive five minutes early.

Going

The First Ten St eps

Photo by Daria Shevtsova from Pexels

By Alice Beckett, Greenpop Communications Intern courtesy of www.greenpop.org

We all know tha t ‘going green’ is an essential thi ng, how ever it can be difficult to do. So here are ten small choices that can be made to your day to day life that create a big impact for the environment.

1. Recycle your waste

Divide your recycling bins into glass, plastics, paper and cans. (Remember to clean and rinse the objects before).

2. Turn the light off

One of the easiest ways to save energy and also money is to turn off the light!! By turning off your light you could be saving between 10-20 percent of your household electricity usage.

3. Green your transportation

By greening your transport you can save yourself a ton of money and the best way to travel to work is to walk or cycle, not only can you count this as your daily exercise but you are also making your carbon footprint smaller. If work is too far to do this, then why not pick up a work colleague on the way, this saves petrol and money.

4. Ban the bottle

Ban the plastic bottle from your routine! This may be the most difficult task for someone ‘going green’, however once you make this your habit you will not turn back! Get yourself a reusable bottle to use everyday and you will keep mother earth and your wallet happy and healthy.

5. Stop junk mail arriving through your letterbox

The estimated decomposition of paper takes two to five months. By putting an end to your junk mail arriving through your post box you are saving not only paper but – water, fuel and energy as these resources are all used in order to send you a catalogue you forgot you signed up for. A sapling takes a minimum of 15 to 20 years to grow into a tree but less than ten minutes to be felled. For every ton of paper that is recycled 17 trees are saved.

6. Conserve water

There are over a hundred ways to conserve water in your household, here are just a few for a first time greener… • Find and fix those annoying leaks you have never got around to fixing. • Turn the water off before a vacation • Switch to a low flow shower head • Always fill the dishwasher for maximum use • Capture rainfall to water your plants later on • And finally… always support local conservation efforts.

7. Eat local foods

Become a ‘Locavore’, these are people who choose to eat seasonal and locally grown food. This is the tastiest and most efficient way to shop as you are supporting the local economy also! (You could even take your reusable bag with you).

8. Compost

Making the choice to compost has incredible benefits for you and your home – small choice, big impact. This idea is inexpensive as there is no need for fancy equipment, as you can make your own or buy one for a minimal cost. So get composting now!

9. Embrace meatless mondays

Studies suggest that by cutting out meat for one day or more a week it can halve your chances of chronic illness such as obesity and diabetes. Not only will meatless monday impact your own health but also the environment as the meat industry generates so much of the greenhouse gas emissions. This is also the perfect chance to try out some amazing and delic ious vegan or vegetarian recipes.

10. PLANT A TREE

As you have now completed your first nine steps to becoming greener it is now your opportunity to give back for the time you were not so green. This is by far the most enjoyable and rewarding step, so head outside to plant a tree in your garden. Or come and plant a tree with Greenpop! Sign up here to receive updates on our tree planting volunteer opportunities!

By Laura Klapperich courtesy of www.greenpop.org

With ever yone’s favourite holida y right around the corner, Greenpop is here to remind you that w hile Halloween may be spooky, the future of our planet doesn’t have to be! Halloween is a fun holiday thatPhoto by Daria Shevtsova can b efrom Pexels enjoyed b y peopl e of all ages, but unfor tuna tel y can also be quite wasteful. Follow thes e simple tips and tricks to keep your Halloween green (not ghostly)!

It’s all about Reducing, Reusing & Recycling!

Compost organic waste

Don’t throw away your organic waste, compost it! This Halloween, instead of letting your leftover food & treats rot in a landfill, turn them into nutrient-rich fertiliser for your plants and trees. And don’t forget – you can compost your pumpkins and gourds too! The more you chop the pumpkin the easier is the decomposing process. Let the microbes celebrate their own Halloween pumpkin feast.

Upcycle & reuse decorations

Repurpose household items you already own to create your Halloween decorations this year. Turn toilet paper rolls into bats. Transform tin cans into ghosts. Create pumpkin magnets out of bottle caps. You can also upcycle your candy wrappers, which are not recyclable, and turn them into chunky beads, bookmarks or even bracelets. Your options are only limited by your imagination. If you’re not into handicraft works, then stuff your plastic and other non-recyclable waste into an ecobrick till it’s tight, and drop it off at a collection point (like Greenpop’s Nursery).

Vegan recipes

Don’t throw your pumpkin leftovers away! You can either toast the seeds for tasty treats or prepare some delicious things like pumpkin pie, muffins, bread, soup or stew. Moreover, a lot of Halloween-inspired vegan recipes can be found online. Find a new favourite recipe or come up with your own and share it with us. Witch Fingers are a fun Halloween treat which look fantastic and are easy to make. There are few ingredients needed, and your friends, colleagues and kids will love them!

DIY costumes

Looking for a Halloween costume that will completely transform your look? Get your friends together and participate in a costume swap! Not only will this save you some money, but it will reduce waste as well. Nearly 6,250 tons of landfill waste are created by costumes each year, so do your part to reduce this by giving your old costumes to friends! I f you have a costume that is in good shape but you don’t feel like wearing it anymore, upcycle it or donate it! Or have a look at the second-hand shop next door. Be creative and mix different pieces of clothing to make your own fantastic costume!

Plastic-free party

For a truly eco-friendly Halloween party say goodbye to plastic cutlery and crockery. Use real dishes – if you don’t have enough ask your guests to bring their own. Biodegradable ones are an alternative too. I n order to keep the quantity as low as possible, use a marker to identify the cups so that guests can re-use their own cup. Moreover, provide beverages in plastic-free containers such as glass containers.

Why Solar Geoengineering Should Be Part Of The Climate Crisis Solution Q&A w ith Climate Scientist David Keith

Photo by Johannes Plenio from Pexels

By Betsy Mason 09.16.2020b courtesy of www.knowablemagazine.org

The controversial technology of reflecting sunlight away planet could help blunt the worst impacts of climate change.

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For decades, climate scientist David Keith of Harvard University has been trying to get people to take his research seriously. He’s a pioneer in th e field of geoengineering, which aims to combat climate change through a range of technological fixes. Over the years, ideas have included sprinkling iron in the ocean to stimulate plankton to suck up more carbon from the atmosphere or capturing carbon straight out of the air.

Keith founded a company that develops technology to remove carbon from the air, but his specialty is solar geoengineering, which involves reflecting sunlight away from Earth to reduce the amount of heat that gets trapped in the atmosphere by greenhouse gases. The strategy hasn’t been proven, but modeling suggests it will work. And because major volcanic eruptions can have the same effect, there are somereal-world data to anchor the idea.

In the near future, Keith and his colleagues hope to launch one of th e first tests of the concept: a high-altitude balloon that would inject tiny, reflective particles into the layer of the upper atmosphere known as the stratosphere. The place and time for the experiment are still to b e determined, but it would be a baby step toward showing whether artificial stratospheric particles could help cool the planet the way eruptions do naturally.

But the idea of using a technological fix for climate change is controversial. Talking about — let alone researching — geoengineering has long been considered taboo for fear that it would dampen efforts to fight climate change in other ways, particularly the critical work of reducing carbon emissions. That left geoengineering on th e fringes of climate research. But people’s attitudes may be changing, Keith says. He argues that while geoengineering by itself cannot solve the problem of climate change, it could help mitigate the damage if implemented carefully alongside emissions reductions. Conscious Life Magazine

In 2000, Keith published an overview of geoengineering research in the Annual Review of Energy and the Environment, in which he noted that major climate assessments up until that point had largely ignored it. Earlier this year, he spoke in Seattle about the current state of the field at the annual meeting of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. Knowable Magazine talked with Keith about how the scientific, technological and geopolitical landscape has changed in the intervening decades.

This conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

Twenty years ago you calle d geoengineering “deeply controversial. ”

How has the controversy changed since then?

Back then it was something that a pretty small group of people who thought about climate knew about — and mostly agreed they wouldn’t talk about. And that was it. Now it’s much more widely discussed. I think the taboo is reduced, for sure. I t’s certainly still controversial, but my sense is that there has been a real shift. An increasing number of people who are in climate science or in public policy around climate or in environmental groups now agree that this is something we should talk about, even if many think it should never be implemented. There’s even growing agreement that research should happen. I t feels really different.

Why was there a taboo against talk ing about geoengineering, and do

you think was it valid?

I think it’s well-intentioned; people are right to worry that talking about geoengineering might reduce the effort to cut emissions. I don’t think this concern about moral hazard is a valid reason not to do research. There were people who argued that we shouldn’t allow the AI DS triple-drug cocktail to be distributed in Africa because it would be misused, creating resistance. Others argued against implementation of airbags, because people would drive faster. There is a long history of arguing against all sorts of potentially risk-reducing technologies because of the potential for risk compensation — the possibility that people will change behavior by taking on more risks. I think it’s an ethically confused argument.

For me, the most serious concern is some entities — like big fossil-fuel companies that have a political interest in blocking emissions cuts — will attempt to exploit the potential of geoengineering as an argument against emissions cuts. This concern has likely been the primary reason that some big civil-society groups want to block or contain discussion of this stuff so it doesn’t enter more widely into the climate debate. For me the concern is entirely justified, but I think the right answer is to confront it head-on rather than avoiding debate. I don’t want a world where decisions are made by elites talking behind closed doors.

Has the amount of geoengineering research increased in the past two decades?

Dramatically, even in the last couple of years. When I wrote that Annual Reviews paper in 2000, there was virtually zero organized research. There were a few researchers occasionally getting interested and putting in like 1 percent of their time.

What has been the biggest surprise over the past 20 years in how solar geoengineering might work?

The big surprise has been recent results, including two studies I was involved in, showing that the effects of a global solar geoengineering program wouldn’t be as geographically unequal as was feared. What matters for real public policy is who is made worse off.

For one paper published last year in Nature Climate Change, we used a very high-resolution computer model, and we compared, over all the land surface, two worlds: one world where we have two times preindustrial levels of carbon dioxide and the oth er world where we have enough solar geoengineering to reduce the temperature change by half. For each of the 33 geographical study regions designated by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, we tried to look at whether solar geoengineering would move a particular climate variable back toward preindustrial levels, which we call “moderated,” or move it further away from preindustrial, which we call “exacerbated. ” We focused on some of the most important climate variables: change in extreme temperature, change in average temperature, change in water availability and change in extreme precipitation. And what we found seems almost too good to be true: There wasn’t a single variable in a single region that was exacerbated. That was a surprise.

In a paper published in March in Environmental Research Letters, we did the same analysis with another model, and we found that with solar geoengineering, everything is moderated in all regions except four. But all four of those are dry regions that get wetter. So my guess is many residents of those regions would actually prefer that outcome because in general people are more worried about getting drier than wetter.

Now, what the model shows may or may not be true in the real world. But if there is a single reason to really look at these technologies and evaluate them in experiments, it’s results like this that show you can reduce almost all or many of the major perturbations of climate without making any region significantly worse. That’s quite a thing.

How would your planne d real-world experiment, known as t he Stratospheric Controlled Perturbation Experiment (SCoPEx), work?

SCoPEx is a stratospheric balloon experiment to put aerosols in the stratosphere and measure their interaction over the first hours and the first kilometer or so after release in a plume. I t involves a high-altitude balloon that will lift a gondola carrying a package of scientific instruments to an altitude of 20 kilometers. I t will release a very small amount of materials such as ice, calcium carbonate (essentially powdered limestone) or sulfuric acid droplets known as sulfates. The gondola will be fitted with propellers that were originally made for airboats so that it can fly through the plume of released materials to take measurements.

The amount of released material will be on th e order of 1 kilogram, which is far too small to have any direct health or environmental impact once released. The goal is not to change climate or even to see if you can reflect any sunlight. The goal is simply to improveour models of the way Conscious Life Magazine

aerosols form in the stratosphere, especially in plumes, which is very relevant for understanding how solar geoengineering would work. We hope to launch the experiment soon. But when and where that will happen depends on balloon availability and recommendations from an advisory committee.

We know there are healt h risks related to sulf uric acid pollution in the lower atmos phere. Are there potential healt h risks from inje cting sulfate aerosols into the stratosphere?

Anything we put in the stratosphere will end up coming down to the surface, and that’s one of the risks we must consider. A full-scale solar geoengineering program might involve injecting around 1.5 million tons of sulfur and sulfuric acid into the stratosphere per year. This could be done using a fleet of aircraft; roughly 100 aircraft would need to continuously fly payloads up to about 20 kilometers (12 miles) altitude. You would not be wrong to think this sounds crazy. We know that sulfuric acid pollution in the lower atmosphere kills many people every year, so putting sulfuric acid into the stratosphere is obviously a risk. But it’s important to understand how much 1.5 million tons a year really is.

The 1991 eruption of Mount Pinatubo, in the Philippines, poured about 8 million tons of sulfur in one year into the stratosphere. I t cooled the climate and had implications for all sorts of systems. Current global emissions of sulfur are about 50 million tons a year into the lower atmosphere, and that kills several million people every year from fine particulate air pollution. So the relative risk from solar geoengineering is fairly small, and it has to be weighed against the risk of not doing solar geoengineering.

How quickly could a full-scale s olar geoengineering pr ogram get off the ground?

I t could happen very fast, but all the ways it happens very fast are bad cases, basically where one country just jumps on it very quickly. I t’s obvious that what would be best is for countries not to just start doing it but to articulate clear plans and build in checks and balances and so on.

If there were much wider research over the next half-decade to decade — which is possible because attitudes really are changing — th en it’s plausible that some coalition of countries could begin to inch toward real implementation with serious, visible plans that can be critiqued by the scientific community starting by the end of this decade. I don’t expect it will happen that fast, but I think it’s possible.

How does geoengineering fit in with ot her efforts to combat climate change s uch as reducing fossil-fuel e missions and removing carbon from the air?

The first, and by far the most important, thing we do about climate change is decarbonizing the economy, which breaks the link between economic activity and carbon emissions. There’s nothing I can say about solar geoengineering that changes the fact that we have to reduce emissions. I f we do not do that, we’re done.

Then carbon removal, which involves capturing and storing carbon that has already been emitted, could break the link between emissions and the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. Large-scale carbon removal really makes sense when emissions are clearly heading toward zero, and we’re getting toward the harder chunk of the economy to mitigate. And then solar geoengineering is a thing that might partially and imperfectly weaken, but not break, the link between the amount of carbon dioxide in the a tmosphere and climate changes — changes in sea level, changes in extreme events, changes in temperature, etc.

So if you look at the curve of overall greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, you can think of emissions cuts as flattening the curve. Carbon removal takes you down the other side of the curve. And then solar geoengineering can cut off the top of the curve, which would reduce the risk of the carbon dioxide that is in the air already.

Some people think we should use it only as a get-out-of-jail card in an emergency. Some people think we should use it to quickly try to get back to a preindustrial climate. I ’m arguing we use solar geoengineering to cut the top off the curveby gradually starting it and gradually ending it.

Do you feel optimistic about the chances that solar geoengineering will happen and can make a difference in the climate crisis?

I’m not all that optimistic right now because we seem to be so much further away from an international environment that’s going to allow sensible policy. And that’s not just in the US. I t’s a whole bunch of European countries with more populist regimes. I t’s Brazil. I t’s the more authoritarian I ndia and China. It’s a more nationalistic world, right? I t’s a little hard to see a global, coordinated effort in the near term. But I hope those things will change.

10.1146/knowable-091620-1 Betsy Mason is a freelance journalist based in the San Francisco Bay Area cartography. She is the coauthor, with Greg Miller, of All Over the Map: A Geographic, 2018). who specializes in science and Cartographic Odyssey (National

Essential Oils for Pets: The Best & Worst Oils to Help Your Furry Friends

By Annie Price, CHHC, www.draxe.com Essential oils are naturally occurring, volatile aromatic compounds tha t come from the s eeds, bar k, stems , flowers and roots of plants. If you’ve used them before, I’m sure you’re alrea dy familiar with how incredibl y potent, frag rant and beneficial they can be to your health, but have you ever tried essential oils for pets?

According to the American Kennel Club, “Preliminary research suggests that these potent oils may have some health b enefits for dogs and humans, and many holistic veterinarians incorporate essential oils into their practices. ” Many pet owners today are turning to essential oils for a variety of health concerns in their pets, including flea and tick prevention, skin issues, and behavior problems like anxiety. (1)

While using essential oils for pets is known to have its benefits, it’s vital to know which oils are safe to use, how to use them, and to remember that, like people, each animal is different and may react uniquely to a particular essential oil. Similar to the use of oils with children, it’s absolutely crucial to remember that a little goes a long, long way with pets.

Are Essential Oils Safe for Pets? If you’re wondering about the safety of essential oils for pets, the answer is that some essential oils are considered OK for use with pets. There are a good amount of essential oils that have been deemed safe and, even better helpful, to pet health. However, there are also many essential oils toxic to dogs and cats (and animals in general), which I will talk about later in this article. But first, are you ready to learn all about the best essential oils for pets, specifically dogs and cats? Conscious Life Magazine

Essential Oils for Pets: 5 Best Oils + Uses for Dogs What essential oils are OK for dogs? The following oils are not only OK for dogs, but they ’re also known to have somereally impressive potential benefits!

Below is a short list of essential oils that experts say are safeto use on dogs:

1. Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is a popular choice among humans so maybe you already have this incredible essential oil on hand for your furry friend. If you’re looking for essential oils for dog odor, lavender is a great scent that pet owners tend to love too. Plus, studies demonstrate lavender’s amazing helpful effects on cases of PTSD as well as its anti-anxiety ability, so it will likely calm both you and your pet. (2, 3)

For pets like dogs, lavender essential oil’s calming effects can be very helpful for anxiety (often induced by visits to the vet or car rides), car sickness or sleep troubles. A 2006 clinical trial looked at th e effects of lavender essential oil on 32 dogs with a history of travel-induced excitement in their owners’ cars. What did they find? The dogs exposed to the scent of lavender oil spent a significant amount more time resting and sitting and a lot less time moving around and vocalizing. Overall, the researchers conclude, “ Traditional treatments for travel-induced excitement in dogs may be time-consuming, expensive, or associated with adverse effects. Aromatherapy in the form of diffused lavender odor may offer a practical alternative treatment for travel-induced excitement in this species. ” (4)

Lavender oil is a great topical remedy for canine skin concerns like a llergies and burns. I t’s also a common choice of essential oils for dog wounds and essential oils for dogs itching. (5)

2. Peppermint Oil

You may already be familiar with this popular, refreshing essential oil. Will peppermint oil hurt dogs? Peppermint is one of the top recommended essential oils to get rid of fleas in dogs. You’ll actually find peppermint as one of the more commonly used essential oils for dog flea repellent for sale in pet shops and online today.

According to Dr. Janet Roark, a veterinarian and the owner of Hill Country Mobile Veterinary Service in Austin, Texas, “Peppermint essential oil can be used to cool sore muscles, energize tired animals, and soothe upset stomachs. I t refreshes the air when diffused and can freshen breath with taken internally. This oil can open the airways and promote a hea lthy respiratory tract, as well as soothe aching joints. ”

As an energizing oil, it can be a great mood booster for animals too. Roark, who is also known as the “Essential Oil Vet,” instructs that peppermint oil is best used topically with dogs. (6)

The American Kennel Club has a great essential oil dog shampoo recipe that includes several recommendations for essential oils for dog fleas prevention, including peppermint. Check out it Flea-Repellent Dog Shampoo with Essential Oils, which includes simple ingredients you may likely have on hand already. Using a shampoo like this regularly is the perfect way to use essential oils to kill fleas on dogs.

3. Chamomile Oil

Roman chamomile oil is a wellknown anti-inflammatory that is a great choice for both humans and dogs alike if the problem is a skin irritation, burns, wounds, ulcers or eczema. (7, 8) This is a very gentle essential oil that can also help calm a stressed-out dog. (9)

If you’re looking for essential oils recipes for dogs using chamomile oil, check out this super easy Calming Spray Recipe that also includes lavender oil.

4. Frankincense Oil

Can you use frankincense oil for dogs? For most dogs, the answer is “yes!” I n fact, Dr. Richard Palmquist, chief of integrative health services at Centinela Animal Hospital in I nglewood, Calif., says that using frankincense oil in some cases of cancer and tumors can be very helpful. (10) The use of frankincense oil in pet cancer isn’t that surprising when you consider that research has shown the powerful potential for frankincense oil to help fight some forms of human cancer, including bladder cancer. (11)

Frankincense oil is known to have potent antimicrobial abilities, making it a great choice for germ fighting and immune boosting too. (12) Research using animal models (mice) also shows that this ancient oil has powerful antidepressive effects. (13)

5. Cedarwood Oil

According to Dogs Naturally Magazine, cedarwood oil (Cedrus Atlantica or Cedrus deodara) is a

terrific natural pest repellent. Cedarwood essential oil when used in dogs also can act as an antiseptic for the lungs, expectorant for coughs (like kennel cough), circulation stimulator (making it helpful for bodily pains and arthritis), hair growth booster and dandruff reducer, diuretic, and a general calming agent that can help with behavior concerns like shyness or nervous aggression. (14)

Essential Oils for Pets: 5 Best Oils + Uses for Cats What are some of the best essential oils for cats?

According to Palmquist, the following oils can typically be safely used with cats (and dogs) on a shortterm basis: (15)

1. Spearmint Oil

Somewhat similar to peppermint oil in terms of its scent and uses, spearmint oil can really come in handy with cats for a lot of different concerns, including nausea and diarrhea. For overweight cats, some vets use spearmint oil to balance the metabolism, and in felines with gastrointestinal problems, the oil can be used to improve unwanted symptoms. Like most essential oils, spearmint oil should be diluted before application.

2. Frankincense Oil

According Palmquist, frankincense essential oil has shown itself to be helpful in some cases of cancer. He’s also seen it reduce tumors and external ulcers. Frankincense oil may also boost blood supply to the brain, but it may make high blood pressure

3. Cardamom Oil

Just like with humans, cardamom oil is a great digestive aid for pets. I t can help ease heartburn while also encouraging a healthy appetite level. I t also has natural antimicrobial properties and can be helpful for coughs.

4. Helichrysum Oil

Helichrysum essential oil has many benefits to pets thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, antibacterial and antifungal properties. (16) For pets, it’s excellent for decreasing bleeding due to accidents and for general skin rejuvenation as well. Helichrysum oil is also used to support the nervous system and boost heart health.

5. Fennel Oil

Fennel essential oil has a sweet smell similar to licorice and is commonly employed to treat digestive issues in humans. In cats, it may be able to help balance the pituitary, thyroid and pineal glands. I f your cat has a buildup of fluid and/or toxins in its tissues, topical application of diluted fennel may help break up that unhealthy buildup and get things back to normal.

How to Use Essential Oils for Pets You should only use 100 percent pure essential oils for pets and always dilute them before application unless otherwise directed by your veterinarian. How much oil should you use? Recommendations vary, and you should ask your vet if you’re feeling unsure, but a safe bet is starting with a single drop of essential oil in 50 drops of carrier oil, such as coconut, olive or almond oil. Another recommendation is to use three to six drops of essential oil(s) to one ounce of carrier oil.

Of course, it’s important to adjust the amount of oils you use depending on your pet’s size and age. Use less of a diluted oil with smaller dogs and cats, as well as puppies, kittens and senior pets.

To enable your pet to benefit from the scent of essential oils, put one to two drops of essential oil in a diffuser and allow the aroma to permeate the living spacefor 10 to 15 minutes.

Here is somecaution with using essential oils with cats or dogs: • Be familiar with your pet’s health status, and check with your vet to make sure no essential oils are contraindicated for your pet due to its breed or a health condition. • Observe your pet’s reaction to essential oils, and stop using them if you observe any adverse reactions. • Never use essentials oils for pets around delicate areas, including the eyes, ears, nose and genitals. • Do not add essential oils to your pet’s food or drinking water unless instructed to by your vet. • Do not useessential oils with puppies under 10 weeks of age. • Do not use oils on epileptic pets who are prone to seizures.

If your pet is pregnant or nursing, check with your vet before using any essential oils and be especially careful with introducing her to essential oils (that includes your own use in her vicinity).

More Precautions, Including Oils to NEVER Use for Pets To be on the safe side, you can always talk to your veterinarian before using essential oils for animals. Cats are especially at risk for essential oil reactions. I t’s vital that you choose 100 percent pure, therapeutic-grade and certified USDA organic essential oils free of adulterants and additives for use with your pets.

Both cats and dogs have very sensitive senses of smell so essential oils should always be used in extremely small amounts and diluted with a carrier oil. I t’s also important to remember what oils you can and cannot use in an oil diffuser around your pet. When using aromatools like a diffuser, make sure to provide an escape route so your dog or cat doesn’t feel trapped. I t’s also not recommended to force the use of any oils on pets when they clearly do not like them.

The list of toxic essential oils varies between cats and dogs. I t’s also important to remember that each pet can react differently to certain essential oils and could have a negative reaction even if the oils aren’t on th is list below. The following two lists are not exhaustive but include some common essential oils known to be problematic for dogs and cats.

Which ess ential oils are toxic to dogs? Essential oils that are toxic/NOT recommended for use with dogs: (17) • Clove • Garlic • Juniper • Rosemary • Tea Tree • Thyme • Wintergreen

Which essential oils are toxic to cats? Essential oils that are toxic/NOT recommended for use with cats: • Cassia • Cinnamon • Clove • Eucalyptus • Lemon • Lavender • Peppermint • Spruce • Tea Tree • Thyme Some pet owners may be interested in trying essential oils with other furry friends so this is another helpful essential oils guide for animals in general below.

30 Essential Oils You Should Never Use on Any Animal: (18) • Anise • Birch • Bitter Almond • Boldo • Calamus • Camphor • Cassia • Chenopodium • Clove • Garlic • Goosefoot • Horseradish • Hyssop (Hyssopus sp. with the exception of Decumbens) • Juniper (Juniperus sp. with the exception of Juniper Berry) • Mugwort • Mustard • Oregano • Pennyroyal • Red or White Thyme • Rue • Santolina • Sassafras • Savory • Tansy • Tea Tree • Terebinth • Thuja • Wintergreen • Wormwood • Yarrow

How do you apply essential oils to dogs and cats? According to Dog Oiler, the best carrier oil to use in combination with essentials oils for your pets is coconut oil. (19) Not only does the use of a carrier oil like coconut reduce the likelihood of skin irritation, but it’s also helps to nourish your pet’s skin — plus research has shown it has helpful antifungal properties. (20)

According toPalmquist, “ To reduce the chances of sensitivity and organ toxicity, we generally use an oil for no more than two weeks and then provide a rest period. Under certain circumstances — like in the treatment of cancer — we will use oils for longer periods, but this is something best left to those trained in the use of oils. ” (21)

Signs and symptoms of essential oil poisoning in pets can include: (22) • Difficulty breathing • Drooling • Lethargy or weakness

Muscle tremors Pawing at the mouth or face Redness or burns on the lips, gums, tongue or skin Trouble walking or an uncoordinated gait Vomiting

Always store essential oils out of the reach of pets and children. If you suspect that your pet has been poisoned by essential oils, immediately contact your veterinarian or the 24/7 Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661). Bring the suspected essential oil offender with you to the vet in a sealed container. Seeking treatment as quickly as possible will typically lead to a better outcome for your pet. If you believe your pet swallowed the oil, inducing vomiting or giving activated charcoal are not recommended as this may make the situation even worse.

Final Thoughts on Essential Oils for Pets • You can use certain essential oils for pets safely to boost their physical as well as emotional well-being, while there are other oils that you specifically should not use with dogs and cats or animals in general. • What essential oils are good for dogs? Some top choices include lavender, chamomile, frankincenseand cedarwood. Peppermint is also a top choice of essential oils for dogs fleas. • What essentials oils are helpful to cats? Beneficial oils for cats include spearmint, frankincense, cardamom, helichrysum and fennel. • I t’s vital that you choose 100 percent pure, therapeutic grade and certified USDA organic essential oils for pets. • There are many important cautionary tips to know before using essential oils for pets, and it’s also important you include your vet on essential oils for pets choices, especially if your pet is very young, old or has an ongoing health concern.

Welcome To The Angel Connection School of Africa

The Ang el Conn ection Scho ol of Africa, establish ed as a non-pro fit organisati on, fo r the high est good o f all, will incorporat e all forms o f Spirituality continuing with the basic teachings of Ang els, Ascen sion, Atlantis etc. which we all know to be Universal. The t eaching s o f va riou s mod alities will how ever, b e enhanc ed by adding th e speci fic requirements of our culture and ethnicity, whilst retaining flexibility.

The mission statement of the school is:“To Light up Africa so that Africa can Light up the World”

The Beautiful Hopi Indian Labyrinth at Thirsty Falls Guest Farm

The Ant bear Drakens berg Lodge is a thatched, whitewashed lodge built high on a nat ural platfor m overlooking the Bushman's River and Giants Castle.

Antbear Drakensberg Lodge offers various Drakensberg accommodation options in en suite double rooms, luxury suites, family units and also boasts a luxury cave too. Antbear Dra kensberg Lodge is one of those smaller intimate kind places which has been lovingly put together. The natural setting of the accommodation is stunning and we have managed to encase all this beauty with an atmosphere of comfort and ease. The cottages are smartly appointed and individually designed and the fact that we are a small place makes for an intimate and personal accommodation expe rience. Each of the accommodation units are different and are decorated with uniquely eccentric and artistic wooden furniture.

It is a bit off the beaten track and is more of an insider tip than just another bed and breakfast. We cater for small intimate groups and never have more than 45 guests at a time. It's a laid back, lovingly cared for kind of place where you feel a sense of happiness and peace. Honeymoon stays turn into anniversary comme morations just as guests become friends. Even foreign tourists return for a second and third taste.

Attractions

Drakensburg Hiking Trails Bushman Rock Art Giant’s Castle Kamberg Weenen Game Reserve Royal Natal National Park Drakensburg Boys Choir Horse Trails Injasuti Nature Reserve Monks Cowl Natal Midlands Tugela Falls Sani Pass Fly Fishing

Retreats

The Antbear Dra kensberg Lodge is the ideal retreat venue where we can provide all the services and accommodation for your retreat. Situated 4 hours from Johannesburg and 2 hours from Durban with easy access from the N3 Antbear Lodge is easy to get to but has the feeling of being far from the madding crowd. This wonderful place for group retreats offers spectacular views, vast spaces, wild winds, rain, sunshine, clouds and rainbows and in all of this – silence and peace.

Retreat groups can book the whole lodge for their exclusive use. The Lodge can accommodate 44 persons in 15 separate accommodation units

Antbear Dra kensberg Lodge has a spacious dining room with a wood-burning fireplace, a comfortable lounge with a fireplace and spectacular views, a breakaway meeting room, a large veranda and a large meeting room for re treat, team building or training activities. We provide excellent meals and will fit our menu to your expectations.

Because food is an important part of your stay

Meals are part of the real surprises that the Antbear Lodge has to offer where home grown cooking is part of the deal. We like to use our own home grown organic vegetables and if we haven’t got, then we lean heavily on those local providers with similar attitudes to our own. Conny and Andre w both like cooking and are up to changing just about anything to suit tastes or philosophies. Our cooking experience is in part a journal, a record of events and me mories expressed in recipes. In the course of our travels we have filed away many recipes and with them images of people and places and their lives. How food tastes has much to do with the associations we make and if you would like to hear the tales of our meals we would love to tell them.

Sustainable & responsible tourism is our social responsibility and what we do to give something back to our c om munity and environment

We believe in sustainable tourism and social responsibility. We live is a spectacularly beautiful place called the Drakensberg and our standard of living here is exceptional. But around us lie contrasts of poverty and lack of development. If we are to keep our way of life then it surely follows that we must do everything in our power to contribute to the upliftment and prosperity of this rural area. We believe that the future of South Africa is linked to the prosperity of the people, and that upliftment is linked to education. And as such we have chosen to support our local primary school called Vulakani Primary School.

Pet friendly accommodation Drakensberg

One of the few pet-friendly places in the Drakensberg. Beautiful, vast views of the Drakensberg with plenty of ground for my dogs to roam. Walk for hours. Your dogs will be happy with lots of dams to swim in and horses to discover. One of the accommodation units at Antbear Lodge is fenced in so its really easy to leave your dog behind if you would like to explore some of the sights where pets are not that welcome. If country life is for you and you would love to take your pet with you then Antbear Lodge is a great accommodation choice. Your hosts will advise you on all the activities available. Antbear Lodge prides itself on being both family-friendly and petfriendly.

CONTACT

Mobile 076 441 2362 Email: reservations@antbear.co.za Web: www.antbear.co.za

The Buddhist Retreat Centre, where people of all religions, and none, come to experience peaceandtranquility.

How to Retreat

The Buddhist Retreat Centre offers various types of retreats, ranging from those investigating Buddhist thought and philosophy, through to practice retreats where the emphasis is on meditation; as well as retreats featuring bird watching, cooke ry, drumming, potte ry and photography. At first glance the latter might appear to be unrelated to Buddhism but even these retreats will contain some ele ment of meditation, of mindful awareness, refracting the chosen subject matter through a Buddhist lens.

People from all walks of life come to these retreats with a variety of motivations and expectations. Perhaps they want to dee pen thei r me ditation practice, to take some time out from a hectic working life; to reflect on a tense domestic situation; to consider the trajectory of their lives; to make a decision about a way forward. Maybe they just want to learn how to take a good photograph. Each person will have a different reason for going on a retreat. Different paths will have led them to this place.

We all need to ma ke an appointment with ourselves from time to ti me. To re-connect with who we are; to maintain balance; to recharge exhausted batteries. To make time to go on a retreat is a necessary and healthy step for anyone.

General Information

The Centre has been established on an exquisite 125-hectare country estate near the village of Ixopo, KwaZuluNatal 90 kilometers south of Pietermaritzburg, one and a half hours’ drive from Durban.

Set in hilly grasslands amongst dams, indigenous bush and forests, it overlooks one of the great valleys in the Umkomaas river system. CNN featured the BRC as one of the ten finest retreat centres in the world. It was awarded Natural Heritage status by President Nelson Mandela in recognition of its success in establishing indigenous vegetation on the prope rty and providing habitats for wildlife to return, including the endangered Blue Swallow. It is a birder’s paradise with more 160 species recorded.

Walks lead to many interesting sites and viewpoints on the prope rty, including evidence that Bushman lived there and Voortrekke rs and Settlers passed through. In 2000, the BRC facilitated the founding of Woza Moya, the community-based NGO, located in Ufafa valley. It continues to support the organisation in a variety of ways.

Fifty retreatants can be accommodated in single and twin-bedded rooms, en-suite cottages and thatched chalets overlooking the secluded valleys on the prope rty – a short distance away from the dining room, office, library, studio and meditation hall.

The Centre is justly famous for its fine lacto-ovo vegetarian cuisine which is featured in its own bestselling recipe books, Quiet Food, The Cake the Buddha Ate and Plentiful: The Big Book Of Buddha Food. The BRC menu includes organically grown vegetables and farm-baked bread.

Observances

The Retreat Centre offers a tranquil environment for the study and practice of philosophy, psychology, meditation and the arts associated with Buddhist culture. The Centre therefore encourages adherence to traditional Buddhist moral principles during retreats, such as respect for all forms of life and abstinence from alcoholic drinks and hallucinogenic drugs. Noble Silence is maintained from the last meditation at night until the first session after breakfast in the morning. During some retreats, Noble Silence is maintained throughout. Pets are not allowed at the Centre. Only some retreats are suitable for children: please check with the Administrator.

Forthcoming Retreats:

For full details of each retreat please go to the we bsite page: http://www.brcixopo.co.za/retreats/detailed-list-ofretreats.html

Email: brcixopo@futurenet.co.za Tel: +27(0)39 834 1863 or 0878091687 Mobile: 082 579 3037 www.brcixopo.co.za

EVERY HOME NEEDS A LOVING PET! THERE ARE SO MANY BEAUTIFUL ANIMALS WAITING TO BE ADOPTED – PLEASE REACH OUT! WE ALSO ENCOCURAGE YOU TO REACH INTO YOUR HEARTS FOR THOSE WHO ARE LESS FORTUNATE AND REALLY NEED OUR HELP.

Help us bring hope to girls without and choices to those with none.

Founded in 2000 by Khanyisile Motsa, and run under her diligent care ever, Home of Hope for Girls is an autonomous, self-started initiative to provide real care for exploited, trafficked and abused children in the city of Johannesburg.

I t is more than just a residential shelter; it is a loving home where dignity is restored, the past is healed and the girls are given the tools to take control of their futures. Home of Hope also reaches out to the community offering the most vulnerable members support, practical help and a lifeline.

The Background to Home of Hope

An estimated 10,000 children are prostitutes in Johannesburg and this figure is increasing.

When Khanyisile Motsa relocated to Hillbrow she was shocked to observe girls as young as nine working as prostitutes and selling drugs on the streets at night. Th e truth about these forgotten children is:

Criminals pay agents to recruit children They usually target often orphans or/and those from very disadvantaged rural communities Victims are trafficked or seduced to leave with lies about a life in the city Their I Ds are frequently taken from them to make escape and identification difficult Their IDs are often sold on the black market ‘Owned’ by their exploiters they are prostituted, abused, made to sell drugs

Email: info@hopehome.org.za Mam Khanyi: 073 250 2086 Telephone: 011 614 0861

Call 012 430 7775

Lines open 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday

Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. In South Africa and around t he w orld, we w ork every day to give children a h ealthy start in life, th e opportunity to l ea rn an d prot ectio n from ha rm. When crisi s st rikes, an d children are most vuln era ble, we a re always among th e first to resp ond an d th e last to l eave. We ensu re children’s uniqu e needs are met and their voices are heard. We deliver lasting result s fo r millions o f children, including tho se h ard est to reac h. We do whatever it takes fo r children – every day and in times o f crisis – tra nsfo rming thei r lives and th e future we share.

We need your help to ensure that no child is left behind.

In a tough funding enviro nment , we have en sured w e have multiple avenu es of funding and are proud to have 11,000 generous in dividual donors con tributing monthly. We will continue to b e innovative in secu ring funding to en able us to reach more children and will work on increasing unrestricted and consistent funding streams. You can h elp us make a differenc e. Even ju st by becoming aware of our wo rk by reading our annual report.

To download and read the full annual report, click here.

Help us do whatever it takes to save the children.

Thank You Gugulethu Ndebele CEO

Hotel Hope Ministries is a fully registered South African non-profit organisation established with aim of ensuring that each and every child is brought up in a safe, happy and healthy home so that they can grow up and develop into responsible and positive adults. Although children are our main focus, we have a holistic approach to the problem of orphaned and abandoned children. We realise that we need to focus on the cause of the problem too and not only the symptoms. So we have projects to focus on assisting Mothers and Fathers, so that they can look after themselves and their children.

We group our projects under three focus areas:

BABIES IN NEED

Creating and supporting several small family style foster homes for orphaned and abandoned babies.

MOTHERS IN CRISIS

Providing young mothers facing unplanned pregnancies with counselling, guidance and practical support.

SOCIAL ENTERPRISE

Helping Mothers and Fathers to help themselves by providing jobs and skill development opportunities through our fundraising and trading projects.

As a fully registered South African charity we are registered with the following authorities:

· Section 21 company without share capital - 2010/006792/08 · Non-Profit Organization (NPO) number – 084 289 · Public Benefit Organization (PBO) number – 930 034 387

Mission statement:

To engage the local Church Worldwide to embrace its God given responsibility of taking care of destitute mothers and orphaned and abandoned children.

Vision statement:

To see a full service (either ourselves or in partner with others) covering: •Children’s homes •Adoption advocacy •Mothers in crisis •Counselling centres •Training Academy •Charity shops / trading

Our fundraising model:

We have a unique funding model in place where we are able to generate funds to cover 100% of our administrative costs through our Charity Shop(s) as well as the output of our carpentry workshop and sewing workshop. We are extremely committed to Social enterprise as it creates employment in South Africa, funds for the Charity, volunteering opportunities as well as a lowpriced outlet for customers from low-income groups. Furthermore we can assure donors that 100% of their support will directly benefit the children in our care as well as mothers in crisispregnancy situations.

Thank you to our donors and corporate sponsors:

As an organisation we are incredibly blessed to have many active supporters, individuals and corporates, who make it possible for us to do what we do and to make a difference. People often comment that it must be difficult to work in our environment hearing sad stories all the time, and it is sometimes hard, but it is also so rewarding to see those stories turning into stories of hope and it is so inspiring and such a privilege to witness people, like our supporters, coming forward to help and to give so generously. There are amazing people out there in the world, click here to see who some of them are and how they have made a difference…Click here

Our Sponsors:

DONATE FINANCIALLY Deposit or Electronic transfer directly into our account

First National Bank Account name: Hotel Hope Account number: 62194003382 Branch: Melville, Johannesburg Branch code (sort code): 256505 Account type: Cheque account SWI FT code: FI RNZAJJ (For international deposits) Reference: Donation (your name)

Dear Reader,

Because of animal lovers like you, Humane Society I nternational is working around the clock to fight the gruesome dog meat industry – to end it for good.

We’ve slammed the doors permanently on nine dog meat farms in South Korea and rescued more than 900 dogs. Not only that, but we’re lobbying hard for better laws throughout Asia to fight the cruelty, transition farmers out of the business of cruelty, and so much more.

Here is one transformation that we can't stop smiling about. Sophie was rescued just this year from a horrible life on a dog meat farm. Now, she is running free and playing in the grass, surrounded by the love of her forever family:

You can make a difference for dogs caug ht up in this br utal industry: Sign the dog meat pledge today.

With you by our side, we're committed to this huge fight against the dog meat trade. We’re closing farms and rescuing the animals; we’re raising public and political awareness of the cruelty involved; and we’re growing substantial support for a phase out and ban of South Korea’s dog meat farms. Become a part of the global campaign to end the dog meat trade—sign your name right now.

Thank you, for protecting animals from cruelty all across the globe.

Sincerely, Kitty Block President Humane Society I nternational

Who we are:

The Monkey Helpline, started in 1995, is a volunteer group, based in Westville near Durban in KwaZulu-Natal, but operating throughout the province and also anywhere else in South Africa and abroad where our assistance and advice are requested. Our team of dedicated rescuers and rescue assistants, veterinarians, educators, monitors, fund-raisers, administrative assistants and supporters is what makes this project the success that it is today.

Monkey Helpline is a registered NPO. 130-166 NPO

What we do:

As a team we devote our time to educating people about the reasons why the monkeys are here, why monkeys behave the way they do, the things people should do or not do when monkeys are around, and how to humanely keep monkeys away from those places where they are not welcome. Just knowing that monkeys will NOT attack and bite people, and that they DON’T carry rabies, is usually enough to change antagonism and fear into tolerance, and frequently into appreciation.

We also run a rescue operation and a “high care” unit. We rescue an average of three monkeys every two days, and their injuries range from wounds sustained during fights with other monkeys, dog bites, being run over by motor vehicles, electrocuted, snared, trapped or poisoned, shot with airguns (pellet/BB guns), catapults, paintball guns and firearms, as well as being caught or injured on razor-wire. Many are babies who are orphaned or injured when mother monkeys are attacked by dogs or other monkeys, or are severely injured or killed in human-related incidents.

Over eighty percent of the monkeys we rescue, irrespective of the reason why, have got air-gun pellets lodged in their bodies. Lead pellets cause terrible pain, suffering and a lingering death and no person, adult or child, should ever shoot monkeys, or any other animals, with an air-gun. As the only dedicated monkey rescue project in KwaZulu-Natal, the Monkey Helpline is available to do rescues 24 hours a day, every day! On any given day we are treating ten or more monkeys in our home-based high care unit – frequently in excess of twenty monkeys! Once they have recovered from their injuries these monkeys are released back into their home territory, transferred to a rehabilitation facility or placed in a sanctuary.

Education is a vital tool in our hands and we distribute thousands of information leaflets, and visit many schools (at least two schools per week) to do educational talks about the monkeys. During 2009 we spoke to over 40 000 school learners and their teachers. We also do talks to many other interest groups such as police cadets, garden clubs, public service groups, conservation bodies, body corporates, etc. In addition, we advise farmers, businesses, hotels and casinos, housing and golfing estates, botanical gardens etc on the best ways to manage human/monkey “conflict”.

Monkey Helpline networks with a number of other Vervet-related individuals, groups, and general primate- and animal-care NGO’s.

NB. There is no charge for the services we offer, but donations towards the cost of running the project are welcome. Without your support we would not be able to change attitudes and legislation in favour of the monkeys nor would we be able to rescue the hundreds that we do every year and alleviate their suffering.