Child of the Universe by 2Luni Media

Child of the Universe to our parents with love

Mom-Me Time Montessori at Home Healing & Meditation Food Synergy & Home Exercise How well do we know our Youth of the Nation?

ISSUE 6

6th EDITION CONTENTS MONTESSORI METHOD HEAL YOUR LIFE WELEDA & NATURALLY-YOURS WELLNESS CENTRE MOM-ME TIME CHILDREN’S CIRCLE ALL THINGS GREAT & SMALL YOUTH OF THE NATION TOTAL HEALTH TEAM CARMEN JARDIM - Owner LINDA NAVON - Editor CLINT STEBBING – National Advertising ARIZONA QUINN – Writer & Researcher EDITORS LETTER In this edition, I am introducing a section called YOUTH OF THE NATION, which focuses on the issues our teens are facing in their lives, things we may not be aware of and can look out for. There are so many disturbing stories about peer pressure, bullying and intimidation, the daily stresses our youth have to deal with, and ultimately the suicide rate is rising at a horrifying rate. For those of you on holiday, take care on the roads. I Hope you are all snuggled up in your winter woollies. Linda

OUR RAINBOW NATION’S 11 OFFICIAL LANGUAGES By Linda Navon

Having been at a loss for words on many an occasion when I didn’t know how to respond to the simplest greetings I decided to start at the very beginning. This is probably going to be of more use to us parents, since our kids are all singing ‘Nkosi Sikelel iAfrika’ fluently, while some of us stand up at our favourite teams’ rugby games and mumble and mouth away through it, trying to look the part and hoping that the cameras are panning in on the chick throwing the naartjie! LANGUAGE ENGLISH AFRIKAANS ZULU NDEBELE XHOSA SEPEDI SESOTHO TSWANA SWATI VENDA

HELLO Hello Goeie dag Sawubona Lotjham Molo Thobelo Dumela Dumela Sawubona Ndaa

TSONGO

Avuxeni

THANK YOU Thank you Dankie Ngiyabonga Ngiyathokoza Enkosi Kea leboga Kea leboga Kea legoga Ngiyabonga Ndi a livhuwa

GOODBYE Goodbye Totsiens Hamba kahle Uhambe kakuhle Sala Kakuhle Gabotse Sala hantle Tsamayo sentle Sala kahle Kha vha sale zwevhudi Salani Kahle

Ndzi khense ngophu And for good measure, I am adding the Nkosi Sikelel iAfrika for those of us who didn’t learn it during the 2010 soccer!

The words of the national anthem of South Africa Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika Maluphakanyisw’ uphondo lwayo, Yizwa imithandazo yethu, Nkosi sikelela, thina lusapho lwayo.

Uit die blou van onse hemel, Uit die diepte van ons see, Oor ons ewige gebergtes, Waar die kranse antwoord gee,

Morena boloka setjhaba sa heso, O fedise dintwa le matshwenyeho, O se boloke, O se boloke setjhaba sa heso, Setjhaba sa South Afrika – South Afrika.

Sounds the call to come together, And united we shall stand, Let us live and strive for freedom, In South Africa our land.

Contributors to this edition Louise Hay Louise Hay's best-selling book, You Can Heal Your Life, has transformed the lives of millions of people worldwide. Her story is truly one of courage and triumph. Using the techniques described in her book, Louise transcended her abusive upbringing to create a life dedicated to helping others learn how to let go of limiting beliefs and create the life of their dreams! Kerry K Kerry K has been in private practice for the past 14 years, and is a qualified Reiki Master, has studied herbalism, energy healing, anatomy and physiology, and transpersonal psychology. Kerry has held seminars and lectured locally and internationally, and currently runs private consultations and work groups in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Mozambique. www.kerryk.co.za Jenny Schmal - Inner Life Skills (ILS) Change and Personal Transformation Coach. Jenny assists and facilitates individuals as well as small and large groups in questioning and reframing their current belief systems and redefining them to be consistent with their highest personal vision. Rejener8.

Carmen Arenas – On Letting Go Carmen Arenas is a teacher and director of The Montessori School at South Riding, which she opened in September of 2004. She lives in Loudoun with Nick (when he’s home from college), Sebastian 16, and Cristian 13. All three of her boys attended a Montessori program for their primary and elementary years and she credits their leadership skills and independence to those early years! Tamar Dakes Botes – New Age Children Tamar, the founder of Beaming Kids, is a mother of three, a yoga teacher, an energetic healer, the author or 2 children’s books, a Meditation CD and Positive Thinking Cards for Kids. Her gift and purpose is to help children connect with their higher selves and adults connect with their inner child.

KNYSNA MONTESSORI SCHOOL The Middle and High School had a Civvies Week as a fundraiser for the Matric Dance.

Montessori Method

A Foundation for Life

BIRTH TO THREE from "The Joyful Child" Michael Olaf's Essential Montessori for Birth to Three Applying Montessori Philosophy as Parents Now that we are in our fifties and have over thirty years of parenting experience behind us, we would like to share the core of what we have learned: First of all each child is unique, and there can be no easy recipes for how to treat her. Intellectual recipe advice is abundant and contradictory in every area of the child's life. The most important advice we can offer is from Dr. Montessori herself, to Follow the child. Her methods have always been based on direct observation of children, rather than from the intellect or in imitation of the philosophies of various social groups. Our main goal at Michael Olaf is to help parents and teachers learn to observe children, to discover clues to their unique set of needs and patterns of development. As we get to know our children at this deep level, we also get to know ourselves in a new way. Another area of advice we would like to offer is to think of the whole family when creating a nurturing environment for growth. Balance yourself, balance your primary relationships and friendships, and the balance of the rest of the family will happen much more easily. As we learn to provide an environment, which calls forth the best in our children, we begin to discover ways to call forth the best in ourselves.

The Changing Environment As the child grows and changes, the environment will change to reflect his needs, not only the physical environment but in the intellectual, social, and emotional environments. The child constantly grows in independence and responsibility, and it is a challenge to keep up with this growth. Parents who learn to observe their children will be able to tell if a toy is still appropriate, or if furniture is still of the correct size for the growing child. They will recognize when the child is ready for the next step in participation with the life and work of the family. Adults who are trying to learn to be good parents are doing so because they care about others. No matter how much we all try to be perfect we must learn to be easy

on ourselves, to not waste time wishing we "had only known," but must learn to laugh, to pick up the pieces, and to begin again. Those who know, have a responsibility to teach, and we hope that you will continue to learn, to enjoy your roles as caretakers of children, and to share your wisdom with others.

The Absorbent Mind Children in these early years literally absorb the life around them. We can never be too kind, too respectful, too wise, to be their role models. When they are not with us, we must have the highest standard of expectation for any adults with whom they spend time. The environment we create for our young children is the environment they are going to create for their children, and on, and on.

A Sense of Order In the first three years of life, children have a very strong sense of order - of both place and of time. An infant can become very upset over things that we would not notice, for example the baby who cried the first time a man who was not her father came into the room because she had experienced many women and no other men than her father. Or the child who cried because an umbrella which he had seen many times closed was opened for the first time. A child may become disturbed because she is bathed after a meal when she had become accustomed to being bathed before a meal. These children do not have any other motive than to try to make sense of the world, to create order. When the child figures out where everything belongs and how the day goes, he develops a feeling of security that allows him to go on to the next stage of development. Wise parents recognize this stage and support the child's internal creation. They put thought into the arrangement of the environment, and into daily routines, being sure that something begun can continue to be done in that way. Above all, they become good at putting themselves in the place of the child to try to understand what he is learning and to be able to respect his pace and needs. If you would like to see more information on Montessori theory and practice from birth to age 12 and beyond, links to lectures, information on Montessori teacher training, books and other materials for the home and school, and more, go to: The Michael Olaf home page The text on this page is reprinted from several different versions of The Joyful Child, with permission of The Michael Olaf Company.

On Letting Go By Carmen Arenas

It is so hard to let go of our children. Yet one of our responsibilities as parents is to allow our children to develop confidence, competence, and, ultimately, independence—to step away from us. It is up to us to show them the way as they get older and to help them deal with their changing world on their terms. It is kind of scary and sad for us to let go; but when the time is right, it needs to be done. When our children finally head off to college, we begin to experience this for real. And while we don’t completely let go then, we begin more and more to find that they are setting the pace, creating their own opportunities and beginning to engage the world on their own terms. I still remember the days, weeks and months trying to prepare and get used to the idea that Nick was graduating and off to college. I wanted to stop the time. I was not ready to let him go. He was my first-born, the one who made me a “mother.” I needed him here! Well …he will soon finish his second year away in college but, if truth be told, he was ready since before I even dropped him off that first day. It took me a little bit longer. It was not until I visited him in Williamsburg that I was humble enough to accept the idea that he no longer needed me …the day when my son became my guide and the teacher. The day he showed me the way around campus, the cafeteria, the library, the soccer fields, the dorms, the laundry room! The same one who later drove me around the historical part of Williamsburg teaching me a great deal about all the history of the town that was now his home. We spent the whole weekend together sharing little bits about his days and his new life. I was so proud to see the confidence and competence that he had developed. Driving back was not easy …tears kept rolling down my cheeks, but they were not tears of sadness anymore, but of joy! My little boy was all grown up! As parents, we must always remember that within our child is a treasure. We need to remind ourselves to have faith in that child and assist with the development of independence, remembering that we are not just raising a child we are ultimately raising an adult.

As an educator, I do tend to give some credit to the school system. After all, think of all the hours our children spend there. Granted, I’m biased and a firm believer in the Montessori program, where my own children have been taught. I remember, as if it was yesterday, when Nick first started and I watched him concentrating on different activities and repeating those activities as many times as he felt he needed and wanted to. It was during those early years where he developed what Maria Montessori called “normalization” … a love of order, a love of work, a profound spontaneous concentration, an attachment to reality, a love of silence and working alone, a generosity, and the ability to make good choices!! WOW!! Now many years later, I saw all of these integrated in my man-child. So hold on for now with the knowledge that, soon enough, the day will come when your child will leave. Even when you don’t think they are ever going to grow up, they really do. And then we find ourselves, quietly in the recesses of our minds, wishing for the days when they were still little and needed us for everything. And we remember those moments fondly and often especially on snowy, wintery, blizzard of the century, cold days. “We are thrilled to be recognized nationally as an AMI school that adheres to the true Montessori philosophy,”said Carmen Arenas, directress at MSSR. The Montessori School at South Riding The AMI school recognition program was started in the United States to assist parents in making choices about Montessori schools and classrooms. An AMI Certificate of Recognition indicates the school upholds the highest standards in Montessori education: Standards that are directly aligned with Maria Montessori’s original principles and practices. It provides credibility to a school’s status within the Montessori and larger educational community and confirms that the school is faithfully putting Dr. Montessori’s principles and practices in effect. • One teacher for each class to support a child’s desire for activity but enable independence as well so that the teacher may never be an obstacle between the child and his/her experience; • 3-year mixed aged groups to facilitate communication, harmony and enthusiasm for learning between age groups; • Class sizes between 28-35 students so that differences of character show themselves more clearly and wider experiences can be gained; • Three hours of uninterrupted work enabling the child to freely enjoy tasks without interruption; • One set of materials for each class to teach respect for each object and patience. The idea of respecting others and waiting one’s turn becomes a habitual part of life which always grows more mature.

THE MONTESSORI HOME ENVIRONMENT Children want, children need, their parents time and attention more than anything else. Recently there have been many 1-minute bedtime story type books on the market; what is that message to families? And toys that are advertised for children to use all by themselves alone in their room, fantasy toys where children can create a perfect world where there are many people who share their daily lives! Or electronic items where they learn to turn to a machine instead of other humans for happiness. Or plastic toys that give the message that children are not worth the real thing or the best quality. Where is this heading? Each year the Michael Olaf Montessori Company has reduced the number of items they carry for children, focusing on better and better quality items that families can use together, or that teach about the real world of plants, animals and humans, and the beautiful world of the arts. The following text is adapted from the Michael Olaf publications, Please feel free to share anything on this page with friends, teachers, family, anyone who wants the very best for the next generation. Preparing the Environment Constant preparation and adaptation of the environment to the ever-changing needs and tendencies of growing children is essential in the Montessori Method of raising and educating children. The first consideration is physical safety, and then the proper support for free movement, exploration, making choices, concentrating, creating, completing cyclesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;all of which contribute to the optimum development of the child.

Natural materials instead of plastic, and attention to simplicity, muted colors, beauty, all contribute to the mental and physical health and self-respect of the child. Reflecting the Child's Culture and Introducing the World It is important that the environment reflect the child's heritage but also introduce the world. Look for items that are made by local artisans, or make them with your children, explore ethnic neighbourhoods. Make your home a unique reflection of your own unique part of the world. Include music, books, foods, crafts, stories from your parents and grandparents lives, but also include the same elements of cultures from around the world so your child learns that everyone is connected and he is a member of an international community. Birth to Three When parents are getting ready for the first child, they will be overwhelmed by ads on what they "need" for that child. It seems that these ads are aimed at selling things far more than providing what is really good for the child. Many items are not only over stimulating for the young child (too many objects, uncomfortably bright colors) but they hamper the natural development of important abilities such as language (pacifiers) and movement (cribs, swings, and high chairs) and even sometimes can be dangerous (walkers and off-gasses from plastic). A simple, natural, and gentle environment, that encourages feelings of safety, and encourages the child to communicate with others and to moveâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;that is the superior environment for the child from birth to three..

Safety A child will develop more fully—mentally, emotionally, and physically—when she is free to move and explore an everenlarging environment. But in order to give the child this wonderful freedom, we must explore the home or day care environment with a fine-tooth comb. When a child is free to leave his floor bed and to move about his room, and later the other rooms—careful attention must be paid to covering plugs, taping wires to the wall or floor, removing poisonous plants and chemicals, and removing any objects that could harm the child. As the child begins to crawl quickly and to walk, the adults must continue to childproof the house. General Environment Principles Here are some things to keep in mind when organizing a child's environment. (1) Participation in Family Life: Even from the very first days, invite the child into the life of the family. In each room—the bedroom, kitchen, dining room, living room, front hall, and so forth. (2) Independence: The child's message to us at any age is "Help me to do it myself." Supporting this need shows respect for and faith in the child. Think carefully about family activities in all areas of the home, and arrange each space to support independence. A coat tree, or low clothing rod or hook wherever the child dresses or undresses (front hall, bathroom, bedroom, etc.); a stool or bench for removing shoes and boots; inviting shelves for books, dishes, toys. (3) Belongings: This brings up a very important point. It is too much for anyone to care for or enjoy belongings when there are too many out at one time. In preparing the home

environment for a child, have a place to keep clothing, toys, and books that are not being used. (4) Putting Away & The Sense of Order: "Discipline" comes from the same word as "disciple" and our children become disciplined only by imitating us; just as we teach manners such as saying "thank you" by modelling this for our children instead of reminding, we can teach them to put away their books and toys only by gracefully and cheerfully doing it over and over in their presence. People are always amazed at how neat and beautiful a child's environment can be with the right guidance. The Environment & The Absorbent Mind During the first years the child will absorb, like a sponge, whatever is in the environment, ugliness or beauty, coarse behaviour or gentleness, good or bad language. As parents we are the first models of what it means to be human. If our children are in a childcare setting or an infant community, we must exact the same high standards. Quality and beauty of the environment and of books and materials are very important in attracting, satisfying, and keeping the attention of the child. If the child is exposed to beautiful mobiles, posters, rattles and toys, made of wood and other natural products, as an adult she will help create a world with the same high standards. Toys, rattles, puzzles, tables, and chairsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;made of woodâ&#x20AC;&#x201D; develop an appreciation for nature and quality and protect the child from unsafe chemicals that are found in many synthetic materials. Pictures on the wall, hung at the eye-level of the child, can be beautiful, framed art prints, or simple posters. All of us have been influenced by our first environment, and nothing helps create beauty in the world as much as giving beauty to the very young.

Toy Storage Rather than tossing toys into large toy boxes, it is more satisfying to the child to keep them neatly on shelves, hung on hooks, kept ready to work with on wooden trays or small baskets. This also makes putting away much more logical and enjoyable. The Chinese art of placement, Feng Shui, teaches that clutter, even hidden under a bed or piled on the top of bookcases, can cause stress. The Outside Environment Sometimes we forget that daily life was first carried out in the outdoors, people coming into their homes for shelter from the elements. This is still the instinct of the child. In the first days of life, just a breath of fresh air and a look at the tree branches moving in the wind each day is sufficient; soon a daily walk in the baby carrier or stroller; and before you know it, walks led by the child, where each new thing—cracks in the sidewalk, parades of ants, puddles, brick walls, weeds and thistles—many details which we as adults previously overlooked, will enchant the child and make a short walk into a long drawn out discovery. Sometimes a "walk to the park" can take an hour, and one may not even get past the front sidewalk. It is very good for us adults to slow down, forget our plan, and follow the child as he discovers, smells, sees, hears, and touches the outside world. Welcome the child to your outside work—washing the car, working in the garden, whatever you can do outside instead of inside—there is always some little part of the real work that a child can do. Try to create an outside area where the child can not only do outside activities such as playing in a sandbox, but

activities he would be doing inside, such as washing his hands or the dishes, looking at books, doing a puzzle. Age 3-6 Children at this age often prefer to work on the floor instead of at a tableâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;on rugs or pieces of carpet that can be rolled up or put out of the way when not in use. This marks the workspace just as would a table. Toys, books, and materials can be attractively arranged on trays and in baskets, on natural wood or white shelves according to subjectâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;language, math, geography, history, science, music, and art. Each object has a special, permanent place so that children know where to find it and where to put it away for the next person when finished. Tables and chairs that support proper posture are important at every age. Age 6-12 This child is interested in right and wrong, in the far distance past, cultures, countries, great people, exploring with the mind. He wants to explore with his mind and now has the imagination to do so. Give him books and projects, coop games, real work in the real world. He is building the groundwork for a valuable, interesting and enjoyable future. He needs space for silence and uninterrupted time to think great thoughts. Whereas at age 3-6 the world was brought into the house of children, now the child begins to go out into the world, for field trips such as shopping at the grocery store for a cooking project, getting office supplies, interviewing subjects for history projects, or visiting museums, and so forth.

The Environment for all children. There are two important things to keep in mind in organizing a child's environment in the home. (1) Have a place in each room for the few, carefully chosen child's belongings: By the front door a stool to sit on and a place to hang coats and keep shoes. In the living room a place for the child's books and toysâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;neatly, attractively organized. Think out the activities and the materials for all living spaces and arrange the environment to include the child's activities. (2) Don't put out too many toys and books at one time. Those being used by the child at the moment are sufficient. It is a good idea to rotateâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;taking out those books and toys that have not been chosen lately and removing them to storage for a time. Children grow and change and they need help to keep their environment uncluttered and peaceful. The Environment & the Mind Everyone at every age is affected by their environment. Habits of organizing the environment reduce stress and aid the development of an organized, efficient, and creative mind. A child who joins in the arrangement of an environment, and learns to select a few lovely things, will be aided in many ways with this help in creating good work habits, concentration, and a clear, uncluttered, and peaceful mind.

www.michaelolaf.net

bio - soul Wellbeing with purpose Karen’s business bio-soul - Wellbeing with Purpose, incorporates all her therapies offering a holistic experience to empower people through Body and Mind, releasing a unique wisdom present in everyone in order to create caring habits. Her interest in alternative therapies began in 1993. Her need to assist others on their journey of selfdiscovery was intense so she embarked on her own journey of self-discovery by attending courses and seminars which have paved the way for her to share and integrate her knowledge and skills. Karen says “We are all beautiful, unique human beings, it is my job to bring awareness to each and every person I meet. Their journey becomes an extension of my journey – we are constantly evolving as change is the only constant in life.” Any alternative treatment will require a willingness to change ones thought patterns and habits to facilitate healing on a physical, emotional and spiritual level. She offers Heal Your Life® weekend workshops for teenagers and adults based on the philosophies of Louise L Hay. These workshops are held on a monthly basis as well as one on one session’s according to her client’s needs. Her treatments incorporate Core Regeneration which is based on the same principle as Body Talk and works on all levels – physical, mental, spiritual and emotional. Core Regeneration forms part of the overall treatment and is followed by Energy Balancing Massage on the feet, hands and arms, décolleté, neck, face and scalp. Back and neck massages and Reflexology also form part of her treatments. Beaute Pacifique which falls under the umbrella of Prana Products is a cosmeceutical product which she uses in her rejuvenating facial and massage treatments. The products are geared towards healing problem skin such as acne, psoriasis, eczema as well as normalising skin that tends towards oiliness, dryness and ageing. The products are manufactured in Denmark a leading country in skin wellness. Karen is a licenced and certified Heal Your Life® Facilitator and a Core Regeneration Practitioner registered with the Natural Healers Association and a Skin Wellness Planner for Prana Products. Accreditations: Natural Healers Association www.naturalhealersassociaton.co.za; Prana Products www.pranaproducts.co.za; Camelot International Health and Beauty School www.camelothealth.co.za; International Institute of Reflexology www.reflexology-usa.net

Naturally Yours Therapists Rose Rock Hair Design I Quit Smoking Sacred Geometry Mandala Paint Workshop What to do if you lack energy

Dr Alain Sanua Homeopath Dr Bradley Sandler Chiropractor

Mauritz Kruger Homeopath

ADD/ADHD/IMUNISATION TREATED NATURALLY

Dr Simon Workman Chiropractor Yvonne Munshi Transformation Therapy/Hypnotherapy

Dr Bulotov Homeopath/Iridologist Bridget Berjak Psychologist

Jaques van Jaarsveld Body Pulse Machine

Tasneem Hassen Podiatrist

Mia Du Toit Clinical Psychologist

The Colon Clinic Sr Jenny Canham

Chamilla Sanua Pharmacist Consultant

Dr Nadhir Biseswar Prothedontist

Nicolette Jordan Clinical Psychologist

Merryn Manley Physiotherapist

Willem Smuts Allergy & Fatique Therapist

Tamara Sayers Clinical Psychologist Dr Rohan Budree Homeopath

Bridget Berjak Psychologist

Annelise Bunce 7.5 Homeopath

Kerryn Williams Pilates

Dr Nozuko HIV Management

Edlyn Karam I Quit Smoking

La Petite Pizzeria - Rose Rock Hair design - Age Smart - Chez Girard Bistro Bryanston 011 463 3604 Info@naturally-yours.co.za www.naturally-yours.co.za www.weledapharmacies.co.za

Rose Rock Hair Design Situated in the heart of the Weleda Naturally Yours Wellness Centre, beats the pulse of Rose Rock. Not your 'typical' hairdressing salon by any means, this shop is beautifully presented with handmade glass mosaic mirrors, natural cement screeded floors, natural light and abundant fresh air, complimented by the ever present magnificent fresh flowers. From the moment that you walk through the doors, you are transformed by the incredible energy of the shop. A haven from the crazy Jo'burg pace, that sets the tone for many high street salons due to their location in a major shopping mall. Hot foamy cappuccinoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and magnificently iced cupcakes welcome you as you enter what can only be described as one of the most indulgent hair salon escapes in the northern suburbs, or if a glass of crisp white wine is what you need to unwind at the end of a busy day, coupled with a complimentary hand and foot massage at the basin, then this is without doubt the place for you. With over 20 years of experience, as a stylist, make-up artist and hair stylist, Yoland or Yo as she is known to all of her clients, will make you feel welcome the minute you step through the doors. You will soon realise that it is her personal positive energy that fills the shop, promising each 'guest' her undivided attention. Not one to 'delegate' the approach of the stylists is 100% 'hands on', offering you that personal one to one attention from start to finish. For the ultimate hair salon experience book your hair appointment today! We look forward to pampering you! Phone (011) 463-5363 Hair Styling Colour Hair Treatments Manicures and Pedicures Make-up workshops

What to do if you’re lacking energy Firstly, check your sugar levels. They may be too high or too low. Have you eaten recently? If you are hungry, get a good healthy meal. First generation foods are best for your health, such as fruit and vegetables or salads and clean proteins like fresh fish, chicken, eggs or meat (avoid processed foods such as colorants flavourings, preservatives and nonnutritive foods such as sugar and salt). Decrease the sugars and refined carbohydrates. Have some nuts on hand such as almonds or snaky foods such as a Provita. Often a tall glass of water will do the trick. Don’t get dehydrated especially in summer or air conditioned workspaces. If you are falling asleep after a meal it usually means the liver and gall bladder may need some fine-tuning. Choleodoron by Weleda or Naturally yours Liver and Gallbladder drops will help. It may be a problem of hyperglycaemia i.e. you may have just eaten a meal with too much sugar-chocolates, coffee, coke or alcohol. This tends to make one feel sleepy as the insulin tried to sort out the high sugar rush into the blood. So if you have checked your sugar levels, had a glass of water, gone for a walk and still feel a lack of energy you may need to check your iron levels, thyroid or hormone status.

Anxious before bedtime Anxiety usually also has to do with sugar levels. Make sure you have eaten within two hours of going to bed. If work is stressful or you have emotional problems have a hot steamy bath with some relaxing aromatherapy oils such as lavender oil or yang yang. Take some relaxing herbs such as Avena sativa, Passiflora or Valeriana officionalis Tinctures and up your B-group vitamins such as Nutri-B Anti Sress by Vita Force. These will relax the body. There are also Neutroceutical substances like lTryptophan, 5-HTP, SAMe and GABA that will help anxiety that is more chemical based. My answer is always to try to live in the moment. Bless all that is good about your life and situation. Best, also, is to start an exercise program even if it is just a short walk in nature daily. Don’t underestimate the bad effects of coffee, chocolates, alcohol and sugar on anxiety. Focus on the out come you want ONLY the way will become clear. This is a law. So in summary have a hot cup of relaxing tea, have a hot bath, make love, take some calming herbs and bless your life before you go to bed.

Mom-Me Time

Viva La Boobies! 7 Things to Know About Breasts By Kara Maria Ananda

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Breasts are amazing – they are beautiful, they nourish babies, and they have an intelligence of their own. Breasts have so many incredible benefits for the health of humanity, the power of women, and the nurturing of the future generations. Your breasts deserve a medal of honor – plus nurturing, pampering and respect. Yet, our breasts are suffering from the dangerous effects of rising environmental toxins in our food, water, air, and toiletries, degrading media, restrictive fashion, and lack of empowering health education for women. I had a dream a few weeks ago that I was at a conference and the organizers asked me to get up on stage and speak about breast health. They said it was vital that we get more people to understand and value the importance of caring for our healthy breasts and that in order to get people’s attention I needed to be topless to speak. While I was still pondering whether I felt comfortable with being topless on stage, I woke up. A few days later Angelina Jolie announced her decision to have her healthy breasts surgically removed because of her potential cancer risk. This action has inspired me even more to realize how vital it is that we join in this conversation and speak about how to naturally care for our breasts, how our environment, diet, and lifestyle impact our health, and why breast health is more important than every before. Thus, my intention is to share positive inspiring information to support women to love their breasts and learn about ways to naturally care for our amazing breasts. Let’s uplift breasts to the status level they deserve!

7 Amazing Things To Know About Breasts Breasts want freedom Bras restrict the movement of lymphatic fluid through the breasts, underarm, and shoulders, thus causing toxins to build up in the breast tissue. Underwire bras are the worst culprit, as the metal also can disrupt the energy flow through the breast area. A recent French study has shown that women who don’t wear bras actually have perkier breasts even as they age. Exercising, dance, and rebounding without a bra also allows the body’s movements to support lymphatic flow and proper drainage of the breasts. The natural movement of the breasts as the body exercises and moves is another essential component to lymphatic health in the breasts.

Breasts need massage There is no muscle tissue in a women’s breasts, so breasts need assistance to enhance circulation through the breast. A woman’s breasts are mostly fat tissue along with milk ducts, connective tissue, nerves, and lymph glands. Self-breast massage is an important regular practice for women to support their blood and lymph circulation and reduce build-up of toxins and hormones in the fatty tissue of the breasts. Massage your breasts daily with a natural cold-pressed vegetable oil, such as coconut, almond, or jojoba oil. You can also add pure essential oils such as rose, jasmine, or clary sage to your massage oil base. I’m not talking about “man-handling” here, I’m talking about gentle self massage in which you get to know what your breasts feel like, notice any changes, and use gentle lymphatic and circulatory movements to enhance health.

Breasts are hot It has been well documented that a woman’s breasts will synchronize with her newborn baby to become the perfect temperature. When a mother and baby are skin-to-skin postpartum, her breasts will naturally adjust their temperature to regulate the baby’s body temperature optimally. A mother of twins will have each of her breasts match the ideal temperature for each one of her twins. Women’s breasts are more reliable and efficient than any baby warmer. So breasts are totally hot – just not in the way people usually talk about.

Breast milk has a gazillion medicinal uses Breast milk is pretty much the most amazing food substance available to mankind. Mother’s milk is unique and not possible to replicate (despite what you may have heard from the formula companies). It actually changes minute by minute, day to day, to provide exactly the right nourishment and immunities that a baby needs as determined by the breast through receiving information from the baby’s saliva on the areola. There are over 400+ identified nutrients in human breast milk, including probiotics and an abundant source of stem cells. The first milk that comes out is colostrum, which is rich with immune factors and is considered to be “liquid gold”, and extremely important for the life-long health of the baby. Breast milk is also used by wise mamas for many purposes including putting on diaper rash, earaches, pink eye, sore throats, and many other healing needs. When a women breastfeeds the breast milk bathes her milk ducts as it passes through to her baby, thus providing increased breast health and preventing breast cancer in direct relation to how long she nurses.

Breasts are energy centers Traditional Chinese Medicine is a complete system of health that has been practiced for thousands of years, based upon the movement of energy through the body on the meridians (energy lines) and acupoints (nodes of energy on the meridians). There are six meridians that run through the breast area, and three of them are the Kidney, Liver, and Stomach meridians where most breast lumps and cancer develop. TCM treats breast cancer by addressing the energy stagnation and movement of Qi. Acupuncture and TCM are holistic ways to promote breast health and can be used in combination with other health care treatments as well. Massaging the acupressure points along the meridians, or holding these energy points around the breasts, can help with promoting breast and whole body health and vitality. Underwire bras can also interfere with the energy moving through the meridians in the breasts, another reason to let your boobs go free, or invest in a soft supportive natural fiber bra.

Breasts are a lot like canaries You’ve heard about the canary in the coalmine? Miners would take canaries down in the mines with them, because the birds were so sensitive that if the environment was toxic the canaries would die, and then the miners would know to get out of there immediately! Breasts are extremely sensitive, they receive information from the environment and their tissues collect toxins and hormones, like jet fuel and flame-retardants. When breastfeeding, the saliva from the baby is absorbed into the areola and the breasts then immediately respond by providing the nutrients and immune factors that the baby needs based upon the breast’s incredibly sensitive receptors. Breast cancer is now the most common form of cancer for women in the US, and it’s not because breasts or our genes are the problem. Our breasts are the canaries letting us know that our environment is toxic and we must make changes in our health, diets, exposure, and detox. Due to the over 70,000 chemicals now used in the US over the last 100 years, we are living in a toxic soup and exposed to chemicals in our air, food, water, homes, cars, clothes, and more. Our breasts are letting us know that we need to create a healthy change for our longevity and the future generations.

Breasts are beautiful Your breasts are perfect for you. All kinds of breasts are beautiful. Breasts change in shape and size over life, and that’s okay. Some men like large breasts, others prefer small breasts, and some like medium sized. Whatever shape or size of your boobs is just right. Love your breasts! They have superpowers, they are intelligent, and they are amazing! In Mongolia, when a baby fusses, everyone lifts up their shirt and shakes their breasts for the baby, and the baby calms down and looks around amazed. Everyone laughs and smiles shaking their boobs, including mom, grandma, and grandpa too! So smile and love your boobs, they are awesome.

Viva La Boobies! About the Author

Kara Maria Ananda is a women’s health visionary and the author of the book “The Sacred Nature of Birth: Natural Wisdom for Conscious Birthing” and the Founder of Birth Emissary. Please visit her excellent website on women’s health, http://karamariaananda.com/.

TEN POINTS 1.

Move on. Life is too valuable to get stuck.

2. Attend to little things before they get bigger. 3. Earn the trust of those around you. 4. Share your love, your wisdom and your wealth. 5. Listen carefully to what is meant, not just what is said. 6. Life is about the journey, not the destination. 7. Inspire others to be happy. 8. Compliment everyone you deal with. 9. Discover the power of self-forgiveness. 10. Live as if you are on holiday â&#x20AC;&#x201C; savoring every minute and collecting memories like photos.

The Benefit of Meditation Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not just a hippy-dippy practice anymore. A growing body of research supports the idea that we can all benefit from 15 minutes of meditation. By Kathryn Clark

Think meditation is just for former Beatles and people with too much time on their hands? Think again. This underrated practice could be one of the most valuable medical devices you're not using. Research has shown that it can help with everything from getting over a stressful day to staving off a potentially fatal heart attack. There are a lot of other reasons why you should shut out the world for 15 to 30 minutes with meditation. Meditation can make you more productive. If you feel like you're just not as sharp as you used to be, give mindfulness meditation a shot. A study in the journal Emotion found that mindfulness, a meditative practice that requires you to sit quietly for a few minutes focusing on your breathing and other specific physical sensations without letting your mind wander, was highly effective in improving people's working memory; working memory is the short-term memory system we tap into for managing information, controlling emotions, problem solving, and complex thought. The best part? The study found that you can reap all these benefits with just 12 minutes of meditation per day. Article from www.rodale.com

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Circle

It might look as if ADD is nothing but trouble, but consider some of the positive traits associated with people, including children, who suffer ADD or ADHD: 

Creativity - Children who have ADD/ADHD can be marvellously creative and imaginative. The child who daydreams or has ten different thoughts at once can become a master at problem-solving or creative expression. Someone with ADD can be a fountain of ideas, an invaluable asset in brainstorming sessions. In a creative or problem-solving situation, divergent thinking can be very useful in coming up with multiple possible solutions and allows for rare insights in such fields as art, music, business, and science. Children with ADD may be easily distracted, but sometimes they notice what others don't see.

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Flexibility - Because children with ADD consider a lot of options at once, they don't become set on one alternative early on and are more open to different ideas.

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Enthusiasm, spontaneity, liveliness - Children with ADD are rarely boring! They're interested in a lot of different things and have lively personalities. In short, if they're not exasperating you (and sometimes when they are), they're a lot of fun to be with.

Energy, drive, and tenacity - When youngsters with ADD/ADHD are motivated, they work or play hard and strive to succeed. It actually may be difficult to distract them from a task that interests them, especially if the activity is interactive or hands-on. Keep in mind, that ADD/ADHD has nothing to do with intelligence or talent but many children with ADD/ADHD are intellectually or artistically gifted.www.highonlife.co.za

YOGA FOR YOU AND THE CHILD IN YOUR LIFE Beaming Kids was born in 2010 and through a series of empowering classes, courses and products has helped 1000ds of children and adults stretch and strengthen their bodies, minds and spirit. Children's yoga uses stories, games, music, dance and singing to create a playful connection to the inner self and the natural world. The owner, Tamar, is a mother of three, a yoga teacher, an energetic healer & a self published children’s author. Her passion and purpose is to help children connect to their higher selves and adults connect to their inner child. Beaming Kids teaches children the tools they need to become responsible, powerful and lighter human beams.

Beaming Kids Yoga Classes teach good body posture, stretching and strengthening, effective breathing, positive thinking, relaxation and meditation.

What Yoga can do for you and your child...          

Improve focus and concentration Improve low muscle tone, increase flexibility, strength and co-ordination Alleviate aches and pains Assist in sleep difficulties Improve low self esteem, increase self worth and build confidence Help with depression and anxiety Balance energy levels Encourage love for oneself and acceptance of others Develop personal responsibility and inner discipline Help find inner peace

Whether you want to stack tables indoors ,

stand on a table on the beach,

or just sit quiet and BEAM...

Join us for KIDS CLASSES or PARENT CHILD YOGA CLASSES in Sundowner or Parkmore, JHB. For class times and other venues visit our website on www.beamingkids.co.za Or contact Tamar on 083 307 7011 or tamar@beamingkids.co.za

NEW AGE CHILDREN INDIGOS AND CRYSTALS AN EVOLUTIONARY PROCESS by Tamar Dakes Botha (Founder of Beaming Kids) Does your child get bored easily? Are they difficult to calm or settle? Do they need constant stimulation? If your answers to these questions are yes then your child may be an Indigo Child. Is your child highly sensitive, yet easy going? Do they display unprecedented levels of kindness and compassion to the world? Did they speak late in life? Do they have a fascination for rocks and crystals and a deep love of animals? If your answers to these questions are yes then your child may be a Crystal Child. INDIGOS Indigos have warrior like spirits and are often confused with having ADD (Attention Deficit Disorder) or ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder). They are actually highly intelligent, possess huge amounts of energy and are here to usher us into a new world of integrity. They are called Indigos because they have lots of indigo blue in their auras. This is the colour of the 3 rd eye chakra which regulates clairvoyance and the ability to see visions and energy. Indigos collective purpose is to break old systems that no longer serve us and squash governmental, educational, and legal systems that lack integrity. In order to do this they need tempers and tenacity. They can sense dishonesty, they know when they are being manipulated and are unable conform to dysfunctional situations at home. They cannot dissociate from their feelings and pretend that everything is okay – unless they are sedated or medicated. The truth is our children are super sensitive, highly intelligent beings and when they are medicated; they often lose their beautiful sensitivity, spiritual gifts and warrior like energy. Indigo Children have been incarnating on the Earth for the last 100 years. The early Indigos were pioneers. After World War II, a significant number were born. They were the hippie generation in the 60’s and 70’s. In the 1970s a major wave of Indigos were born and from the 80’s to date they are coming through in very large numbers. So we now have three generations of Indigos, some who are in their late twenties and early thirties and who are about to take their place as leaders in the world. Indigos continued to be born up to about the year 2000, with increasing abilities and degrees of technological and creative sophistication. CRYSTALS Crystal Children began to appear on the planet from about 2000, although some date them slightly earlier. They have large hypnotizing eyes that look straight into your soul and they are wise beyond their years. They are called Crystal children because their aura is opalescent with lots of rainbow colours in it. This generation of light workers are very telepathic and intuitive. These are extremely powerful children, whose main purpose is to take us to the next level in our evolution, and reveal to us our inner power and divinity. They still have tantrums but are easily forgiving. They function as a

group consciousness rather than as individuals, and they live by the" Law of One" or â&#x20AC;&#x153;Unity Consciousnessâ&#x20AC;?. They are a powerful force for love and peace on the planet. They are often judged by the medical world as having speech problems or are labelled as Autistic. Both Crystal and Indigo Children are highly sensitive with psychic abilities and important life purposes. These are a generation of children unlike any other we have seen before. They are here to heal our planet and it is their time. They are totally receptive to their environment and are affected by their surroundings in profound ways. They are influenced by so many external factors such as; parental pressure, stress, peer pressure, school pressure, competitive sports, TV, videos, game consoles and other electronic devices, chemicals and pesticides in foods, bad eating and more. They should not be labelled or medicated. Instead we should be changing the way we do things; breaking old habits and finding ways to accommodate this new energy. Parents and teachers need options; we need to make choices that work for us in our already busy lives. The choices we make as parents, teachers and caregivers will either assist them on their journey or make it more difficult. AN EVOLUTIONARY PROCESS The exciting thing about these evolutionary developments, for ordinary people, is that the Indigo and Crystal beings bring these vibrations to the planet in order to share them with others. By their very presence, they assist others to move into these new vibrations and open up to their full potential as well. The journey from Indigo to Crystal is available for us all if we so choose. We already have higher levels of consciousness and are much more aware of our intuitive thoughts and feelings. Communication is becoming faster, more honest and more centred in love and compassion. We are growing in our psychic abilities and are more fascinated by the para-normal and extra terrestrial life than ever before. Adult Indigos are now making the transition to Crystal Consciousness; a spiritual and physical transformation is taking place that facilitates this awakening. Those who were born without these qualities are accessing higher levels of consciousness and intuition through a process of their own hard work and the discipline of following a spiritual path. As we evolve from 3rd dimensional beings into 4th and 5th dimensional, we find that we no longer have time or need for things such as fear, worry and victim dramas. We prefer to spend our time creating the kind of reality in which we will be happy and content. More human beings are being drawn to spiritually based careers and relationships that donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t serve us are being challenged or broken down. These are exciting and challenging times. As we evolve it is becoming easier to access both the material and spiritual realms. There is no longer any need for intense meditation, since the access to the spirit realm is immediate and evident. It is vitally important as we make the transition into awareness to remember we are human and remain well grounded in the material dimensions. The whole point of the Transition is to bring "Heaven" to "Earth" and birth a culture of respect, peace, harmony and creativity.

WHAT CAN YOU DO – FOR YOU AND YOUR CHILD – TO FACILITATE A POSITIVE TRANSITION?  Eat mainly raw foods or vegetarian diet, consider the Feingold diet www.feingold.org  Limit or cut out their sugar in take  Limit TV and video games  Teach them positive self talk  Spend time being a kid with your kid  Be hands on  Find out what interests them  Encourage lots of physical activity  Encourage lots of time outdoors, close to nature  Enrol them in yoga  Use soothing music to self calm  Sing with your child and use sound effects  Teach visualisation techniques  Find your child’s best alert time  Teach them relaxation techniques  Use touch to calm them  Help them get organized  Be prepared and take care of yourself  Teach your child to focus  Teach them breathing techniques  Distract them or give instructions in attention grabbing ways  Remove allergens, chemicals, flavourants and colorants from their diet  Use natural and logical consequences  Use time out or the thinking chair in positive ways.  Give them immediate feedback  Use positive reinforcement  Consider family therapy (Imago or Play Therapy)  Give your child age appropriate responsibilities  Give them real life tasks to establish trust and responsibility  Give them choices.  Help your child develop socially  Have your child teach or help a younger child  Have a positive image of your child Contact Tamar Tel: (+27) 83307011 Email: tamar@beamingkids.co.za

I Think, I Am!: Teaching Kids the Power of Affirmations is now available as a children`s eBook for iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad. As a special bonus, Louise L. Hay provides the audio narration for this fantastic adaptation. Your thoughts create your life! This is the message that Louise Hay has been teaching people throughout the world for more than 27 years. Now, children can learn and understand the powerful idea that they have control over their thoughts and words, and in turn, what happens in their life. Within the pages of the "I Think, I Am!" eBook, kids will find out the difference between negative thoughts and positive affirmations. Fun illustrations and simple text demonstrate how to make the change from negative thoughts and words to those that are positive. The happiness and confidence that come from this ability is something children will carry with them their entire lives! Available from www.hayhouse.co.za

GOT A FUSSY EATER IN THE HOUSE? Fussy eating facts Fussy eating is very common. It can help to know why children sometimes fuss about their food: 

Children’s appetites are affected by their growth cycles. Even babies have fluctuating appetites. Between 1-5 years, it’s common for children to be really hungry one day and picky the next.

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Children have different taste preferences (or palates) from grown-ups.

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Sometimes life for children seems too exciting to spend time eating.

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Children learn by testing the boundaries of acceptable behaviour. They can be very strong-willed when it comes to making decisions about food (to eat or not to eat, and what to eat). It’s all part of their social, intellectual and emotional development.

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Sometimes your child will refuse food just because it gets an interesting reaction – from you! If children refuse to eat a food, it doesn’t necessarily mean they dislike it (after all, they might not have even tasted it yet). They might just be putting on a show of independence to see what you’ll do. Try to stay calm when this happens.

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Children – especially toddlers – have a strong need for rituals and for what’s familiar. If your child asks for pasta without the sauce, this might just be a way for him to get simple, easily identifiable foods that boost his sense of security.

Introducing new foods 

Put a small amount of each food on the plate so your child isn’t overwhelmed.

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If you keep offering a particular food, your child is more likely to try it and eventually like it – in fact, she might have to see a food on the plate 10-15 times before accepting it. Even if your child doesn’t take the first step in accepting the new food, continue offering it at other times and on other days.

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When possible, have your child share meals and snacks with other children – he might be more willing to try a food if other children are tucking in.

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Serve your child the same meal the family is eating. If your child doesn’t eat it, say something like, ‘Try it, it’s yummy’. If she still doesn’t want it, calmly say, ‘OK, we’ll try it another time when you’re hungry’.



Serve new foods along with foods your child already likes – for example, a piece of broccoli alongside some mashed potato.



Encourage your child to touch, smell or take a lick of the new food, then praise him for having a go. Then encourage him to take a bite. Again, offer praise for trying it. For more information go to: www.raisingchildren.net.au

Fussy Eaters It's hard finding recipes to try that will tempt a fussy eater and mean clean plates all round. Why not try some of these recipes and adapt them by removing or replacing any ingredients you know your little ones won't like. Browse all Netmums recipes.

Frittata Eggs are a handy fridge stand by, and you can hide all sorts of things in a delicious frittata...including last nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leftovers! Another dish that is great eaten hot or cold (ideal for slower fussy eaters).

Wraps Wraps are a welcome alternative for parents of fussy eaters who won't eat sandwiches. Try 50/50 wraps that look white but have the goodness of wholemeal. Let your child pick the fillings (within reason) and roll it all into a wrap. If they don't like butter or spread, try cream cheese. Begin with what your child likes and sneak in new things gradually.

all creatures great and small

Grief in animals: It's arrogant to think we're the only animals who mourn.

There is no doubt that many animals experience rich and deep emotions. It's not a matter of if emotions have evolved in animals but why they have evolved as they have. We must never forget that our emotions are the gifts of our ancestors, our animal kin. We have feelings and so do other animals. Among the different emotions that animals display clearly and unambiguously is grief. Many animals display profound grief at the loss or absence of a close friend or loved one. Nobel laureate ethnologist Konrad Lorenz writes: "A graylag goose that has lost its partner shows all the symptoms that [developmental psychologist] John Bowlby has described in young human children in his famous book Infant Grief . . . the eyes sink deep into their sockets, and the individual has an overall drooping experience, literally letting the head hang . . ." Sea lion mothers, watching their babies being eaten by killer whales, wail pitifully, anguishing their loss. Dolphins have been seen struggling to save a dead infant and mourn afterward.

Read more: http://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/animal-emotions/200910/grief-inanimals-its-arrogant-think-were-the-only-animals-who-mourn

AIRGUN VIOLENCE AGAINST ANIMALS Do you know that living in your neighbourhood, in your road and possibly right next door to you are killers – killers who have no conscience, no compassion and no remorse for the terrible pain, suffering and death they cause to innocent victims of their mindless violence. We refer here specifically to those morally retarded and socially dysfunctional morons who think nothing of taking shots at monkeys with airguns (also commonly known as “pellet guns”). Almost every day we rescue monkeys suffering severely debilitating, frequently fatal, injuries from the lead pellets that have smashed through skin, muscle and bone, ripping holes through intestines and into eyes, body organs and brains. Imagine the pain, the fear of a monkey that has had its thigh bone shattered by a pellet. That monkey still has to follow the troop around as they forage for food. If the monkey can’t keep up and lags behind death is inevitable. But death only comes after a few days or even weeks – days and weeks of terrible, terrible suffering. Imagine the anguish of a mother monkey blinded by a pellet in her brain, trying to follow her troop by sound and instinct alone, fearful for her baby she can no longer see. Can you even begin to understand how a monkey feels as it tries to drag itself along, desperate to follow it’s troop, paralysed by a pellet through the spine, eventually reaching a barrier it cannot negotiate, by which time its mouth and throat are parched with thirst, its stomach is cramping from hunger, and the skin and flesh on its knees are scrapped through to the bone. It is alone, terrified and helpless to protect itself against dogs or other violent people. Those monkeys lucky enough to be found by someone who contacts the Monkey Helpline will be captured as gently as possible and then taken to a vet where their suffering will end when they are mercifully euthanised. These are some of the tragic scenarios that confront the Monkey Helpline rescuers every day. The number of monkeys being shot with airguns is mind-

boggling. Not requiring a license, airguns can be bought almost anywhere, by anyone, and there is no meaningful control over the use of these dangerous weapons, which is why over eighty percent of the hundreds of monkeys rescued by the Monkey Helpline every year have lead pellets lodged in various parts of their bodies. Yes, that means that at least eight out of every ten monkeys you see have been shot with an airgun, some as many as fifteen times. And the violent yet cowardly people responsible for this vicious cruelty do it close to where you, your children and your pets, live and play! Fact is that the use of an airgun in residential areas, or anywhere else that holds the risk of injury or damage to person or property is a crime punishable by the courts. This is very clearly spelt out in the Firearms Control Act, Act 60 of 2000, Section 120, Paragraphs 3(b) and 7. Amazingly, most South African Police Service (SAPS) officers have very little understanding of that part of the Act that limits the use of airguns and most attempts to lay an airgun use related charge at a police station are met with resistance by the police official based on obvious ignorance of the contents of the Firearms Control Act insofar as airguns are concerned. Monkey Helpline cannot bring an end to airgun violence against monkeys and other animals, and potentially even your children, without the cooperation of the public. We need to be notified of any person discharging, or reasonably suspected of discharging, an airgun in a residential area, and charges must be brought against that person by the witness to the incident. Successful prosecution of airgun offenders is the only way we will be able to protect innocent animals against the indefensible cruelty that results from airgun violence. SO, DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T WAIT UNTIL THE NEXT TIME YOU SEE YOUR NEIGHBOUR USING AN AIRGUN. ACT NOW AND PREVENT ANY FURTHER AIRGUN VIOLENCE AGAINST ANIMALS!! This adult female, who was already blind in her right eye, was rescued from Road 703, Chatsworth. She had had been sitting on an outside-mounted geyser for a few days before a neighbor saw her and reported her plight to Monkey Helpline. We rescued her and discovered that she was totally blind. She had a new pellet entry wound in her left temple, the pellet having then exited through her left eye socket. We are not sure if she has permanently lost sight in her left eye. Under treatment now, only time will tell if she is doomed to permanent blindness!

This adult male was rescued by Monkey Helpline after he was noticed spread-eagled in the fork of a large tree in Lewis Drive, Amanzimtoti. He had been in the caller’s garden since the previous day. We rushed him to our vet but he died literally as we carried him through the door. He had been shot with an airgun, the pellet entering his left side, passing through both lungs and lodging just under the skin on his right side.

This perfect four year-old male Vervet Monkey was rescued by Monkey Helpline after the caller found him lying in her garden in Olympic Road, Bluff and unable to walk. We rescued him and rushed him through to our vet where he was euthanised after it was discovered that he had been shot with an airgun and had his thoracic spine smashed by the lead pellet, thus being rendered instantly paralysed in his lower body. He was in terrible pain, groaning pitifully as we raced to the vet. We know who shot him and after confronting the shooter we reported the incident to the police who are now dealing with the incident.

Monkey Helpline contact details (24/7): Steve – 082 659 4711 or steve@animalrightsafrica.org Carol – 082 411 5444 or carol@animalrightsafrica.org

Youth of the Nation

What are our youngsters up to?

Do you censor the music your teenagers listen to? By Linda Navon (J.A.M. –Just Another Mother) I had my children at a very young age, so effectively I grew up with them and whether this was a good or a bad thing.... well they were happy with it and so was I. I started taking my son to festivals when he was 7 or 8 years old and that kicked off his interest in music. Being a youngster who was ‘diagnosed’ incorrectly with ADD and put on Ritalin, I rebelled against this route and removed him from ‘conventional’ schooling and enrolled him in the Montessori Academy where he excelled.... but that is a whole other story. Through testing we knew that Vincent had an above average IQ yet he didn’t read very well. At the age of about 11 he was given his first guitar and taught himself to play, just by listening to all the music that he could lay his hands and ears on. Most of my CD collection ‘mysteriously’

relocated to his bedroom. My neighbours were constantly on my case about the loud music he was blaring out on his amplifier. All I could do to calm them down was trip our electricity as his door was usually locked! Still I have to admit that it was an experience to watch him learn and become a very accomplished guitarist. As we did, my kids grew up amongst many SA musicians and through the years we went to festivals at Rustlers Valley, Woodstock, Oppikoppi and many live bands and gigs, both local & international. My daughter, Candida, also went into the music industry. She started her own band called â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Child of Ashâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. As a vocalist she is brilliant and very at home and confident on stage. Vincent played rhythm and lead guitar for the band. To see my two kids perform together is a memory I will forever cherish.

I don’t consider myself a prude when it comes to music and will listen to pretty much anything. In fact, I think blanking out the profanity in songs on the radio is rather stupid. Everyone knows Pink didn’t have a “sh__ day,”... she had a ‘sh!t’ day. Along these lines, I never told my kids they weren’t allowed to listen to any particular music. Why? Glad you asked. 1. These songs are everywhere: every radio station plays them, they’re literally impossible to escape. If I had tried to restrict the music my teens listened to, they would have been hearing the same songs somewhere else anyway, and I would have just be the repressive parent who didn’t understand them. 2. Music is a form of self expression. Different people like different types of music, and the beautiful thing is that there are as many diverse types of music as there are preferences. Letting kids choose what type of music they listen to helps them form their own individuality. My teenage son tended toward Metallica and

Nirvana, and some Joe Satriani and my daughter more to Barbra Streisand and other female vocalists. My mother brought us up on a strict diet of music, Tom Jones, Englebert Humperdink, Shirley Bassey and Ella Fitzgerald among others. There always was, and still is, music in our homes. 3. They aren’t necessarily going to do what they hear in songs. I’m a mature mom who likes loud rock music but I have never beaten anyone up or danced on the ceiling! I understand that teenagers may be more impressionable than me, but my experience is that even if they listen to music with language and activities that I don’t condone, it doesn’t mean they’re going to go out and do the same things. 4. They hear worse at school. It really doesn’t matter what socioeconomic class you’re in or where your high school is located. Pretty much every high school is going to have its share of drinking, drugs and other illicit activities. (This is also a whole other topic that we will be covering in future editions). As with #3, it doesn’t mean they’re going to make those choices.

5. Parents still have a bigger influence over their kids’ behavior than music does. Raising kids is a process, obviously. Ideally parents will still model behavior they want their kids to emulate and I like to think that even during the moody teenage years parents still yield a bit more influence over their kids than a pop star. I was not and am still not a conventional parent. My daughter on the other hand was my ‘leveller’... she would be the one to ‘reign us in’, line us up and march us home. Candida, your social skills and savvy in those days were superior to other teenagers and am grateful for that. Just wait till you have a daughter that I can take out – mind you, I doubt I will be allowed into any sort of club by then. Now that I have opened this ‘can of worms’ I would love to hear your feedback on how you handle your teenagers. P.S. I am now handing this article to my daughter to edit before publishing.... OMW.... here comes the dreaded red pen!

EDIT BY CANDIDA (Cj) A word from â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;said daughterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; after editing my mom's article, (ha ha, nice to be the one with red pen). Growing up I watched many of my friends make the wrong choices, sneak around behind their parents backs, lie to them about where they were going, put on an act so as not to reveal their full personality lest they be scolded for their interests and ideas. What I witnessed was a wedge being drawn between these kids and their parents, with their parents never really knowing their kids or what they got up to. How dangerous this can be. My mom allowed us to be who we were and so neither my brother nor I felt the need to lie or put on an act. We didn't sneak out, as we knew that we didn't need to, we went to plenty of interesting and cool places with our mom, and most of them were festivals or venues which allowed parents to bring kids along. As a teenager I knew I was allowed

to go out to places that my friends went to so long as my mom knew where we were and who we were with. She usually dropped us off and picked us up. It was sometimes a drag, though thankfully she was always there to keep an eye on me and I never became a teenage rape/kidnap etc statistic. I am grateful for that upbringing, it has made me even more level headed in my adult life and I still know how to have fun and let my hair down when I feel like it. And mom, don't worry, I will take my own daughter out! Ha ha. Edâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s note: Thank you my lovely daughter, I am very proud of you and love both you and Vince to the moon and back. xxx

FAST FACTS ABOUT TEEN SUICIDE IN SOUTH AFRICA

1. 90% of people who attempt suicide have a diagnosable illness usually depression. 2. 75 % of teens tell someone first, either a friend or a family member. 3. Teens, however, are more impulsive. 4. According to the National Youth Risk Survey (2002), 25% of youth had experienced feelings of hopelessness; 19% had considered suicide and 17% had attempted suicide. 5. According to Dr C Lund in Cape Town, currently only 1.4% of the countryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s outpatient facilities are for children and adolescents. 6. Boys are more likely to succeed in their attempt to commit suicide. Boys tend to use means that are more lethal. However, up to four times more girls attempt suicide than boys do. 7. One in 10 learners who drop out of school does so because of repeated bullying. 8. As many as 7% of learners stay home at least once a month because of bullies. 9. Youth who have attempted suicide are often difficult to treat because they often leave treatment prematurely. 10. According to treatment described in the October 2009 edition of JAMA, intensive psychotherapy plus medication is a newly developed type of treatment. 11. It appears that teens need more intense treatment early on, which can reduce the risk of further suicide attempts. 12. Teens need help to develop a tolerance for distress. 13. Pursue additional coping strategies for teens that have experienced trauma or abuse as these youth are at greater risk for depression or attempting suicide. 14. According to research by Dr B Meel in the former Transkei, two-thirds of teens commit suicide by hanging. 15. There is a lack of accessible mental health care, especially in rural areas, which puts youth at risk of stigmatization. 16. According to Prof Schlebusch in KwaZulu Natal, young adults with a positive diagnosis of HIV /Aids show a disturbing rise in suicidal behaviour.

TEEN DEPRESSION - What do we need to do in South Africa • Fight the stigma that surrounds teen mental illness and getting help for mental health. • Increase commitment of mental health services so that people are able to receive adequate care at their primary care clinics. • Develop school based services for educational programmes encouraging teens to help each other and seek help for each other. • Develop early childhood programmes. • Increase school based counselling and support. Help establish peer group support in schools. • Keep youth educated on substance abuse and the accompanying problems. • MAKE sure TEENS know where to go for help 0800 567 567, sms 31393, or www.sadag.org • Locally know how to access social workers, educational psychologists, clinics with psychiatric care, and mental health care groups, or care in your area. • Ensure teachers, churches, youth groups and parents know how to do basic intervention skills.

What you can say that helps: • You are not alone in this. I am here for you. • I understand you have a real illness and that’s what causes these thoughts and feelings. • You may not believe it now, but the way you’re feeling will change. • I may not be able to understand exactly how you feel, but I care about you and want to help. • When you want to give up, tell yourself you will hold on for just one more day, hour, and minute - whatever you can manage. • You are important to me. Your life is important to me. • Tell me what I can do now to help you. • I am here for you. We will get through this together.

What you should avoid saying: • It’s all in your head. • We all go through times like this. • You’ll be fine. Stop worrying. • Look on the bright side. • You have so much to live for; why do you want to die? • I can’t do anything about your situation. • Just snap out of it. • Stop acting crazy. • What’s wrong with you? • Shouldn’t you be better by now? Emergency Lines: SADAG : 0800 567 567 (8am – 8pm) LIFELINE: 0861 322 322 (24 hours)

www.sadag.org www.youthvillage.co.za

TOTAL HEALTH

Supplements vs Superfoods Reconnective Healing Slimming Workouts Meditation with Kerry K Rejener8 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 8 Reasons for Change Health Products

Supplements vs Superfoods With cold season upon us, it is customary to remember about supplements. Sales and consumption of supplements grow significantly during winter months with people searching for a quick fix to fight flu and colds or to boost physical or mental performance. Why do we need supplements in the first place? We live in a technological era with advanced treatments for previously untreatable diseases, but humanity is getting sicker and many new diseases emerge which didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t exist previously. Although we are blessed with much easier and safer lives than our ancestors, our bodies are constantly deprived of vital nutrients. Supplements are affordable, convenient, save time and provide these nutrients. But do conventional supplement really benefit our bodies? This question has been debated from medical and alternative societies around the world for many years. Most supplements on the market are synthesized in a lab and their absorption by the human body is suspected not to be effective. Another problem with conventional supplements is added additives, preservatives and fillers. How to choose the best supplement and how to distinguish between natural and synthetic? In most instances one needs a chemistry degree to decrypt ingredients and usually we choose a product which has been advertised or recommended. Unless one has prior knowledge about specific product, brand or ingredients, it is almost impossible to make informed choices while shopping. The following points may be taken into consideration when choosing a supplement: 1. Balance in the body: Vitamins, minerals and other vital ingredients are in a balance in our bodies and supplementing just one will not necessarily improve health. To keep this very fine chemical balance one should supplement with caution. Vitamin C: Humans are one of the few animals who canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t produce their own Vitamin C and need to supplement it. This vitamin needs to be provided to the body at regular intervals. If the body receives a large quantity, it will only take the quantity needed at the moment and discard the rest as it doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have ability to store it. Instead of using a high dose Vitamin C supplement, Camu Camu powder can be used. It has much higher concentration of Vitamin C than citrus and red peppers and is very easy to include in drinks and meals. Camu Camu powder can be added to cooled homemade iced tea (any organic tea + honey) for a refreshing all day drink and steady intake of Vitamin C. 2. Alkalizing the body is amongst the most powerful tools for overall health. Drinking and eating green leafy veggies and soaking your body in Soda Bicarbonate are two simple, inexpensive and easy methods for alkalizing. Soak your feet in hot water with 2 spoons of Himalayan salt and 2 spoons of Soda Bicarbonate to ease the symptoms of flu and common colds and speed up recovery while helping the body regulate its own pH levels.

3. Eating yogurts and drinking Kefir and Kambucha will improve stomach and intestines balance. These products can be bought at selected health shops or made at home. 4. Old recipes for pickled veggies are another way of providing beneficial probiotics, bacteria and Vitamin C to the body without buying supplements. 5. Use Raw Superfoods (organic if possible) instead of supplements. Superfoods provide variety of live nutrients which are easy to digest and absorb. Superfoods are not called supplements as they are plant foods. The adjective “super” is added to describe their very powerful nutritional value. They are fairly easy to recognize, with simple to decrypt ingredients (usually just one). The best superfoods are raw, meaning they have been processed at temperature below 42 0C, thus keeping the nutrients intact. Superfoods found in shops are usually dried parts of different plants. They can be eaten fresh too if available locally. Some superfoods come from as far as South America (Goji Berries, Maca, Lucuma, Mesquite and Chia Seeds), while others are proudly South African (Baobab powder or pulp; Aloe Vera juice and gel, Moringa leaves).

When health is concerned, it is not wise to blindly trust big manufacturers, rather do your own research, ask questions and make informed choices. Our health is in our own hands and we can’t afford to be ignorant. For detailed information about superfoods and their health benefits, visit our website: www.OrganicChoice.co.za

Lilia Simeonova, Owner of Organic Choice

If it is not natural & organic, you won’t find it here.

New Frequencies of Healing We are in the midst of an encouraging new shift on the planet, one that allows us to tap into incredible new frequencies of healing and evolution. Dr Eric Pearl, a highly successful doctor in LA discovered these frequencies, Reconnective Healing. Healings first manifested through him one day when, after 12 years of practice, some of his patients suddenly began to report miraculous healings from birth disfigurements, chronic fatigue syndrome, arthritis cancers, AIDS-related illnesses, cerebral palsy, depression, addiction and arthritis, to name just a few. Gary Schwartz, PhD, William Tiller, PhD and Konstantin Korotkov, PhD, all prominent, renowned scientists have been researching these frequencies, as they attempt to explain their power, source and function. To date, Dr. Pearl and his staff at The Reconnection have taught this new level of healing to more than 75,000 people in more than 60 countries. They come from all walks of life, all age groups, and are able to carry this work forward at the highest levels. In addition, they, and their clients, report healings from all types of conditions, similar to those of Dr. Pearl’s own patients. Working with these frequencies is often a life changing experience. During a seminar weekend, you are “immersed” in the frequencies, and often continue to experience the healing vibrations well after the seminar has finished. Once activated by this work, your own healing and evolution continue at its own rate, every day, for the rest of your life. To explore either a new career as a Reconnective Healing practitioner, incorporate Reconnective Healing into your professional healthcare practice, or if you simply want to enjoy learning how to use Reconnective Healing for yourself, family and friends, go to www.TheReconnection.com Seminars are scheduled in Johannesburg 2 – 6 August.

The New Frequencies of Healing

Heather Proudfoot

8 reasons Rejener8 is about more than just life coaching and change facilitation, Rejener8 believes in the value of personal journeys, in finding the reason within yourself to change whatever it is that YOU need to change. Our 8 reasons for change are: Reason 1: Re:cover Anyone who has experienced a sense of loss - real or imagined -can heal from broken relationships, grief and past hurts as well as from physical issues relating to health. Reason 2: Re:create Change your thinking and change your life - create a new you from the heart not your 'thinking' Reason 3: Re:think Holistic body image and self image assessment so that self image issues are dealt with Reason 4: Re:call Recalling and rekindling your dreams and aspirations Reason 5: Re:charge Find and explore your hobbies, interests, loves and new, exciting ways to express your creativity Reason 6: Re:birth It's never too late to start afresh - prepare to look at life from a new angle, to create new beginnings and explore your potential Reason 7: Re:define Get back on the right track, 'readjust your settings' and reframe your destination, after all, life is about the journey! Reason 8: Re:joice Discover your inner joy and be happy

Jenny Schmal is an Inner Life Skills (ILS) Change and Personal Transformation Coach. She assists and facilitates individuals as well as small and large groups in questioning and reframing their current belief systems and redefining them to be consistent with their highest personal vision. Her strength is the ability to connect with her clients/audience with integrity and authenticity. Jenny believes in a hands-on approach, which guarantees a heart to heart investment in every client and their potential. She offers sustainable growth, support and training in personal transformation. Jenny has over 20 years experience and has studied and trained locally as well as internationally. She has worked closely with other transformational experts including Dr John Demartini, Baruch Banai and Colleen-Joy Page. She is currently a licensed trainer for ILS International and offers various workshops annually. Jenny's expertise ranges from health and wellness, relationships, emotional, financial as well as spiritual/purpose coaching. She is an admired and respected businessperson, author and motivational speaker. "At the core of every individual is limitless Joy, a natural celebration of life. This is what I share with those willing to choose it." Jenny Schmal Jenny is available for private coaching, corporate events and can be booked as a motivational speaker. Jenny Schmal ILS Change Coach/Trainer rejener8 www.rejener8.com Tel: 076 090 2452

MEDITATION The search of a child I was 12 years old and had heard about this magical thing called meditation but, frustratingly I had absolutely no idea what it was. All I knew was that it was meant to transport you to some transcendental place where spiritual Oneness was attained. What one did in that spiritual Oneness or how to get there was completely out of reach for me but my interest was piqued and a search began. In over 16 years of teaching and sharing guided meditation with thousands of people all over the world, I am still in awe of this sacred space called meditation. I remain entranced by it, mesmerized by its wisdom and in reverence of this profound teacher that I have come to know yet continually discovering with the delight and excitement of a child. What meditation isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t! Like any good search, there are twists and turns, wrong directions and dead ends. But in all of that I learned what meditation wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t and that became part of a very important understanding that I still share with people today. Meditation is not a struggle to quieten the chattering mind; many people begin there and give up before they ever discover the enchanting journey that lies ahead of them. Meditation must lead you; it is the teacher, the very Soul of your existence. Quietening the mind and enjoying stillness is a welcome side effect of meditation, and the result of tuning in to the heart. It cannot be the beginning point or the goal or else you will begin your meditation in a contest, and for those who have ever tried to hush the chaotic mind you will know that the mind is not one to give up easily. Radio stations The more you meditate the more you will naturally simplify an otherwise chaotic and confusing life. It stands to reason therefore that meditation itself must be a simple process.

If you think of the brain as one radio frequency and the heart as another, it simplifies everything. Rather than trying to shut down a radio station (the brain) you can simply tune in to another one (the heart). In the beginning it may feel like you are getting crossed signals and interference, you may tune in to the heart for a minute and jump back to the head, but very quickly, you will become so focused and eventually captivated by the language of the heart. When you tune in properly the brains chatter ceases to distract you, in fact at that stage you will be blissfully unaware of the ramblings that may be going on anywhere else (even the traffic outside will seemingly stop). Now you are in meditation, your teacher is speaking to you and the heart is its chosen channel of communication. The majority of people that I teach, and I have reached many thousands in just about every country of the world, have achieved this state in about 30 minutes or less. Even the corporate executives who claim to not know what itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s like to have stillness in the mind are entirely surprised at how easy it is to tune in to themselves and out of the brain. But what is the heart really? Of course, the heart that I speak of is not simply the physical muscle of the heart but something perhaps better described as the heart centre; the seat of emotional connection. In the meditative journey we clear out the cluttered emotions that may have piled up over the years, we reconnect to ourselves, become present and tune in, not only to ourselves and our inner wisdom but also the wisdom of the Universe. In meditation, without us ever realizing it, our heart centre aligns with the universal heart centre and we become bathed in Oneness. How do children meditate? Quite easily, thank you! My very best students are children, for them meditation is still a natural state of being, they are far less likely to have disconnected from themselves to the extent that adults have so they find it easier and simpler and very often all they need is a gentle nudge to remind them that they really are filled with wisdom. For them the wisdom is not something they can articulate in words so we use pictures to describe what their inner teacher has shown them. That wisdom then is relayed to the parents who often stand aghast, finally having proof of what theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve always known; that their child is truly a Child of the Universe. wishing you love and light

Kerry. K info@kerryk.co.za www.kerryk.co.za cell 082 948 7319

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JUST B Creation

7 Slimming Workouts For Small Spaces Get creative, fun workouts you can do at home in your living room By Jenna Bergen from Prevention Magazine

Kettlebells If you’re looking to trim and tone quickly, consider adding a kettlebell, a round weight that sort of resembles a small bowling ball with a handle attached to it, to your home gym equipment. “A kettlebell workout can be done in less than half the time of typical workouts and burns twice as many calories,” says Sarah Lurie, author of Kettlebells for Dummies. Here’s why it works so well: “Most kettlebell exercises give you a cardiovascular workout and a full-body strength workout at the same time,” says Lurie. “The basic kettlebell swing works every major muscle group and taxes your cardiovascular system at the same time. Even adding just two kettlebell workouts a week into your routine will transform your body.” Check out Prevention’s 20-minute kettlebell workout that delivers more fat-fighting and body-toning benefits than doing 30 minutes on the treadmill and 30 minutes of traditional weight lifting.

Jumping rope “Jumping rope is amazing for your body,” says Samantha Clayton, personal trainer and co-star of YouTube’s Be Fit In 90. “All you have to do is look at a boxer’s tight, toned body to know it’s a major fat-blaster.” You’re toning your upper and lower body at the same time, while quickly boosting your heart rate. Don’t have the room to swing the rope? Try “ghost jumping,” mimicking the movement without the actual rope. “This is just as effective in keeping your heart rate up,” says Clayton. To keep it interesting, try doing fast intervals with short recoveries in between, challenge your

balance by jumping on one leg, double-dutch with the kids, or jump to the beat of your favorite songs.

(Ed’s note: haha, this ghost jumping works for me since I have the co-ords of a wet dish cloth. No falling on your face in a tangled rope and all the kids laughing at you!)

Body-weight workouts No barbells, dumbbells, or resistance bands? No problem. “Your own body is the best piece of equipment you own,” says Clayton. You can get an amazing workout in a small space by mixing and matching basic moves like lunges, squats, mountain climbers, planks, and pushups. “Squats and lunges tone your legs and butt, and push-ups are great for your chest and arms,” says Clayton. Planks and mountain climbers are fantastic for your abs. Aim to do 3 sets of 10 reps for each move. To boost your calorie burn, keep rests between each move no longer than 20 to 30 seconds. To amp calories even more, add a 1-minute cardio blast—like jumping jacks—between each set.

Suspension training Loved by personal trainers and hard-bodied fitness types (a former Navy SEAL is credited with their development), these versatile nylon straps hook to any stable anchor—think your bedroom door or a sturdy pole or beam—and allow you to use your own body weight as resistance for more than 100 different exercises. They’re perfect for at-home exercisers because they require minimal space, weigh under a kg, and can be rolled up and stashed in a drawer or closet between sweat sessions. Because suspension strap moves require balance, your abs are constantly engaged, working your body from head-to-toe. In fact, they’re so effective that we featured them in the May issue of Prevention magazine and listed them as one of our 7 Exercises Women Don’t Try—But Should.

Indoor cycling If you love logging miles on the open road, consider setting up your bike in your living room. “You can put your favorite TV show or movie on the TV and pedal away,” says Andrew Bernstein, gear editor for Bicycling Magazine. “The most common set up is a rear-wheel trainer, which locks

onto the bike’s rear hub and elevates the back wheel a few inches off the ground,” says Bernstein. These devices use a resistance unit to simulate riding on a road. You’ll also need a “trainer block” to elevate the front wheel so that your bike is level. Whatever your setup, expect to sweat: An 80kg person burns between 159 calories to 476 calories in 30 minutes of cycling. “We recommend you get a rubber trainer mat to put underneath you to protect your floors, especially if you’re spinning on carpet,” says Bernstein.

Yoga If you have room to unroll a yoga mat, you have enough space for a challenging yoga session. To make yoga a great calorie-burner, focus on repeating moves that engage your largest muscle groups and get your heart rate up, says Tamal Dodge, RYT, star of the Element: Hatha & Flow Yoga for Beginners DVD. A few poses to try, in addition to the basic warrior I and II: Crescent lunge, chair pose, and extended side angle. Try our fat-blasting yoga workout for even more burn.

Barre work Long used by dancers to sculpt a lean, long body, barre work has become a staple in many exercise studios. The ballet-derived exercises are normally done using a stationary handrail, but you can do them with a chair, kitchen table, or even the back of your couch. Barre work strengthens your deepest abdominal muscles, pulling in your waist like a corset, while lifting your butt, trimming your thighs, and toning your arms. It also whips into shape your perfect-posture muscles, so you'll stand straighter. Get started with this three-part video series. Created by Barre3 exercise studio exclusively for Prevention, it’s easy to do at home and you’ll see results fast!

(Ed’s note: All wonderful and practical home exercises... though I am still looking for a workout that can be done while balancing my laptop on a mountain of duvets and cats!) |Reference: www.prevention.com

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