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Holistic Health Tips For The Coronavirus Times

Preventative Tips on Staying Healthy

There is so much frenzy going on regarding the cornonavirus. I won’t belabor what is wrong.

So with that said, I felt I wanted to share with you MY tips to keep yourself healthy and boost your immune system. We forget that our bodies are designed to heal themselves. What I want to propose are ways to help strengthen your mind, body, and spirit during this crisis.

First, outside the basics of what is already flooded everywhere on the internet and social media such as good hand washing, minimize social contact, stay home if sick etc, there is more. I will NOT go into all that, but instead I will go into the OTHER stuff that sometimes is not addressed in the mainstream.

Are you ready for some of my home remedy tips?

Before we start, I would like to say, I do NOT do all of these at once. I pause. I listen to my body for what it needs intimately. Over the years in healing myself and my body, I have learned the power of building a relationship with my body and know what various emotional triggers, sensations, pains etc represent to me.

I encourage you to build a relationship with your body as it knows best what it needs. The body carries within it, infinite wisdom for your healing needs.

With that said, I will usually do a combination of these based on what I feel my body needs at that time. In this post I will address:

  • The herbal and vitamin tips
  • Things to increase
  • Eat more …
  • Things to avoid
  • and final thoughts

Here are my general recommendations:

The Herbal and Vitamin Tips

  • Elderberry: Elderberries have been used traditionally, and in some observational and clinical studies, as supportive agents against the common cold and influenza. (NCBI)
  • Turmeric (click here) has long been recognized for its medicinal properties. It aids in the management of oxidative and inflammatory conditions, metabolic syndrome, arthritis, anxiety, and hyperlipidemia. (NCBI). My favorite way of taking this is: turmeric root shaved 1 tsp (if only have access to spice powder then substitute), dash of cracked pepper in 6-8oz of hot water. Seep for 5min. Drink all. This is a chemical thing. Personally. I have found this combo work as effectively as other anti-inflammatories without the added side effects of liver and/or kidney damage. Click here for other top 10 evidence based benefits.
  • Vitamin D and Vitamin K2: Vitamin D has important roles in addition to its classic effects on calcium and bone homeostasis as well as immunity. I personally take 6000 IU of Vitamin D3 with added K2. Vitamins D and K are both fat-soluble vitamins and play a central role in calcium metabolism. Studies suggest that optimal concentrations of both vitamin D and vitamin K are beneficial for bone and cardiovascular health.  (NCBI)
  • Zinc and vitamin C: Supplementation of vitamin C was found to improve components of the human immune system such as antimicrobial and natural killer cell activities, lymphocyte proliferation, chemotaxis, and delayed-type hypersensitivity (PubMed). Likewise, zinc also plays a role in immune function.
  • Probiotics: A prospective study of probiotic supplementation results in immune stimulation and improvement of upper respiratory infection rate (NCBI). Considering the coronavirus attacks the lungs, this might be something very easily dismissed in its role by the mainstream. We forget that gut health is paramount for overall health.
  • Honey: Honey clasps several medicinal and health effects as a natural food supplement. It has been established as a potential therapeutic antioxidant agent for various biodiverse ailments. Studies show it exhibits strong wound healing, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiviral, and antidiabetic effects. It also retains immunomodulatory, estrogenic regulatory, antimutagenic, anticancer, and numerous other vigor effects. Research also shows that honey, as a conventional therapy, might be a novel antioxidant to abate many of the diseases directly or indirectly associated with oxidative stress (PMC). Personally, I choose raw organic unfiltered honey that is local or manuka honey for therapeutic treatment. Manuka honey has shown it kills bacterial pathogens.
  • EZC Pak –  This is a physician directed tapered immune support pack with high concentrations of organic Echinacea, Zinc, and Vitamin C.  EZC Pak (click here) is one of the main things I personally took  (on top of the other recommendations above) in December 2019 with some odd virus that was unlike anything I have ever had after travelling abroad in the fall. It was so odd, I actually researched “international diseases” for travelers aka warnings etc.  Was it COVID19 I had? … I am not 100% sure, but my symptoms matched it perfectly, and I am sure this is also was killed my beloved Ava. 

Things to Increase:

Rest & Sleep:

Have you noticed that when you do not get enough sleep, you are prone to getting sick? Not getting enough sleep can lead to higher levels of a stress hormone. It may also lead to more inflammation in your body.

Most of our body’s ability to repair itself happens when we are at rest. So ensuring we get enough rest is important. Also, increasing the dosage of sleep might be needed as forecast moving through the energies of 2020.

One new study has explained how sleep contributes to the proper functioning of the immune system (Medical News Today).

Meditation

Meditation boosts antibodies. A recent study confirmed that, after being given weekly meditation training for 8 weeks, 48 biotech workers had significantly higher levels of antibodies than the control group.

Meditation stimulates immune system brain-function regions. Mindfulness meditation has shown increases in electrical activity in the prefrontal cortex, the right anterior insula, and right hippocampus, all parts that control positive emotions, awareness, and anxiety. These are also the areas of the brain that act as a command center for your immune system. When stimulated, they make the immune system function more effectively (The Chopra Center)

DON’T KNOW HOW OR STRUGGLE: Practice being present and try some mindful breathing or go into nature and UNPLUG from your devises. Sometimes 5-10 min a day is all the body needs.

Reiki

Reiki is a Japanese complementary alternative mind body medicine therapy that works with the human body’s bioenergy field.

Our bodies are designed and fully equipped to heal themselves, but many of are so use to looking for external solutions, we may have forgotten. Reiki taps into those innate healing abilities. By doing to, it can also promote the body’s natural immune response.

Jikiden Reiki practitioners, for instance, are trained to sense levels of toxins present in the physical body. Reiki is then used to intensively promote detoxification and a return to the body’s normal homeostasis. When minor sicknesses, such as coughs and colds are being treated, they will typically move through the body much faster than usual.

Yoga

Yoga is a mind and body practice with a 5,000-year history in ancient Indian philosophy. Various styles of yoga combine physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation or relaxation. (Medical News Today)

Research published in the Journal of Behavioral Medicine suggests that yoga can be helpful way to boost your immune system and decrease inflammation in the body. (Psychology Today)

Massage

There is growing body of research indicates massage therapy can benefit the immune system. Researchers have reported people who undergo massage experience measurable changes in their body’s immune and endocrine response. (Science Daily)

Thai Chi, Exercise, etc

With age, our immune systems become less nimble and not quite as ruthless. The number of T cells drop. The B cells also start to wind down, making fewer antibodies that respond to outside intruders and more errant ones that turn on the body itself.

Small studies have yielded some evidence that exercise seems to re-energize the immune system (Harvard Medical School)

Tai chi might have a strong effect on the immune system because it manages to bring exercise, relaxation, and meditation together in “one behavioral intervention,” the researchers said. They theorized that tai chi enhances T cell activity by quieting the nervous system’s “fight or flight” response, which can, in certain circumstances, interfere with the immune system. (Harvard Medical School)

Shin Rin Yoku

This is a Japanese term otherwise known as “forest bathing”. Current literature supports the comprehensive health benefits of exposure to nature and green environments on human systems on something that has been incorporated as part of the Shinto culture in Japan to decrease undue stress, potential burnout and “technostress.” (NCBI)

Studies have also found that “forest bathing” has “positive physiological effects, such as blood pressure reduction, improvement of autonomic and immune functions, as well as psychological effects of alleviating depression and improving mental health” (NCBI).

congerdesign / Pixabay

Eat more …

  • leafy greens such as spinach and kale,
  • bone broth is the secret ingredient in our mother’s chicken soup with all sorts of yummies for our immune health,
  • seaweed ( I like sneaking it in soups),
  • organic “berries” such as raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries
  • fresh rosemary,
  • holy basil,
  • fresh parsley,
  • ginger root – in teas, soups, dishes,
  • raw garlic has been shown to help fight viruses and bacteria. I eat this generously on the daily whether on toast or in dishes. It is one of my favorite go to foods.

… Things to Avoid …

Stress – Avoid or Minimize

Stress or at least work towards minimizing and taking steps to release stress when necessary. When we’re stressed, the immune system’s ability to fight off antigens is reduced. That is why we are more susceptible to infections. Check out Stress, Illness and the Immune System.

WHAT TO DO: You can try CBD to help cope with stress which targets the endocannabinoid system.

Some studies suggest that cannabinoids like THC and CBD are immunosuppressant, which can explain the relief experienced by medical cannabis users with autoimmune diseases and chronic inflammation. Other studies have shown that regular cannabis use can increase white blood cell counts in immunodeficiency disorders such as HIV, suggesting an immune-boosting effect.

You can also try taking Ashwagandha if you feel you need added support for your stress which supports adrenal type stress. This is one of my personal go to adaptogenic herbs that have helped me and others I know with underlying causes for stress such as PTSD. You can read here “Why Ashwagandha Root Could Be The Cure For The Western Epidemic of Stress Related Illness”.

Processed Foods: Avoid or Minimize

Research shows that dietary habits influence disease risk. Poor diet quality is implicated in almost every disease and health issue.  Processed foods harm your gut bacteria and promote insulin resistance, chronic inflammation, and overall disease risk (NCBI).

WHAT TO DO: Research indicates that diets abundant in plant foods and low in processed products strengthen your health (Healthline). Choose whole grains and things that do NOT come in a box.

Alcohol: Avoid or Minimize

Clinicians have long observed an association between excessive alcohol consumption and adverse immune-related health effects such as susceptibility to pneumonia and more recently to a greater likelihood of acute respiratory stress syndromes (ARDS), sepsis, alcoholic liver disease (ALD), and certain cancers; a higher incidence of postoperative complications; and slower and less complete recovery from infection and physical trauma, including poor wound healing (NCBI).

Alcohol can cause dehydration and lower immune system function, which may worsen cold symptoms as well as adversely affect other cold and flu medications. Therefore, reducing alcohol consumption would be a wise move at this moment unless you are a hot toddy type of person.

EXCEPTION: Some suggest the warm beverage’s ingredients of a hot toddy are known to alleviate cold symptoms. Whiskey, specifically, also contains the antioxidant ellagic acid, which studies suggest may help treat viral and bacterial infections (Fatherly)

Processed Sugar: Avoid or Minimize

A high-sugar diet (HSD) induces Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and obesity, which severely threaten human health including immune response. (PubMed). Eating or drinking too much processed sugar curbs immune system cells that attack bacteria.

WHAT TO DO: When it comes to viral infections, eat healthier forms of sugars found in fruits, vegetables, and honey (as mentioned above), which are rich in nutrients like vitamins C and E, plus beta-carotene and zinc. Go for a wide variety of brightly colored fruits and vegetables, including berries, citrus fruits, kiwi, apples, red grapes, kale, onions, spinach, sweet potatoes, and carrots (WebMD)

Dairy: Avoid or Minimize

Dairy is a known inflammatory food and gut disruptor that can aggravate health conditions, such as: eczema, asthma, acne, mood disorders, autism, many autoimmune conditions, especially type 1 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease and more.

ALTERNATIVES: Healthier options include goat milk, flax seed milk, hemp milk. If you MUST do the dairy thing, I suggest things like yogurt and butter are generally ok, but avoid milk, cheese, ice cream.

… Finally,

What I have provided here is just a guide. There are so many other alternative and complimentary therapies that would be beneficial. I just wrote about what is in my filters of knowledge and expertise backed by research and other credible information.

I would sincerely like to know if what you found here was helpful to you during these crazy frenzied times we are currently in.

I was told my my wise Osteopathic physician father who has been practicing medicine for over 40+ years tell me, prevention is the best medicine.

Prevention includes making life style changes as well because a pill, an herb, a treatment session is still just a band aid in many situations if you do not correct the underlying culprit.

And as I stated earlier, this is a BIG year energetically where we are being called to do the needed inner spiritual work.

Spiritual bypassing will no longer be an acceptable route to take moving forward. If you missed my 2020 energetic forecast earlier this year, you can click here for the full post including tips to help you navigate these energies.

If you are unsure as to what works and doesn’t work for you, book an integrative holistic health appointment with me today.

Thank you for supporting me and my work

With appreciation,

Laura

Spiritual Medium, Healer, Speaker, Writer, Metaphysician, Advocate, Holistic Health Practitioner, Facilitator, Trauma Specialist, Empowerment Specialist and Spiritual Badass.

For more information about classes, click here and our events calendar, click here.

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Disclaimer

Please note that content on this website is intended for informational purposes only, and is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional, not is it meant to diagnose or treat a health problem, symptom or disease. Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your health care provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read on this website. Information provided on this website DOES NOT create a doctor-patient relationship between you and any doctor affiliated with our website.

References

6 Foods That Cause Inflammation; Healthline; Franziska Spritzler, RD, CDE on November 12, 2019

10 Proven Health Benefits of Turmeric and Curcumin; Healthline; Kris Gunnars, BSc; July 13, 2018

A comparative study of the physiological and psychological effects of forest bathing (Shinrin-yoku) on working age people with and without depressive tendencies; National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine; Akemi Furuyashiki, Keiji Tabuchi, Kensuke Norikoshi, Toshio Kobayashi, and Sanae Oriyama; June 22, 2019

Adults demonstrate modified immune response after receiving massage, researchers show; Cedars-Sinai Medical Center; Science Daily; September 9, 2010.

Alcohol and the Immune System; National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine; Dipak Sarkar, Ph.D., D.Phil., M. Katherine Jung, Ph.D., and H. Joe Wang, Ph.D. ; 2015

A high-sugar diet affects cellular and humoral immune responses in Drosophila; PubMed; 2018 Jul 15;368(2):215-224. doi: 10.1016/j.yexcr.2018.04.032. Epub 2018 May 1.

Alterations in brain and immune function produced by mindfulness meditation; National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine; Davidson RJ, Kabat-Zinn J, Schumacher J, Rosenkranz M, Muller D, Santorelli SF, Urbanowski F, Harrington A, Bonus K, Sheridan JF. ; 2003

A nutrition strategy to reduce the burden of diet related disease: access to dietician services must complement population health approaches; National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine; Leonie Segal and Rachelle S. Opie; 2015

Biofield Science and Healing: An Emerging Frontier in Medicine; National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine; Shamini Jain, PhD, John Ives, PhD, Wayne Jonas, MD, Richard Hammerschlag, PhD, David Muehsam, PhD, Cassandra Vieten, PhD, Daniel Vicario, MD, Deepak Chopra, MD, FACP, Rauni Pritten King, RN, MIH, CHTPI, and Erminia Guarneri, MD, FACC; 2015

Can Food Act as Medicine? All You Need to Know; Healthline; Jillian Kubala, MS, RD on August 8, 2019

Cannabinoid-induced apoptosis in immune cells as a pathway to immunosuppression; National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine; Sadiye Amcaoglu Rieder, Ashok Chauhan, Ugra Singh, Mitzi Nagarkatti, and Prakash Nagarkatti; 2010

Curcumin: A Review of Its’ Effects on Human Health; National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine; Susan J. Hewlings and Douglas S. Kalman; 2017 Oct 22

Dairy: one of the biggest immune system stressors; Darou Wellness; Dr. Shawna Darou, ND;

Elderberry Supplementation Reduces Cold Duration and Symptoms in Air-Travellers: A Randomized, Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial; National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine; Evelin Tiralongo, Shirley S. Wee, and Rodney A. Lea ; 2016 Mar 24

Honey as a Potential Natural Antioxidant Medicine: An Insight into Its Molecular Mechanisms of Action; National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine; Sarfraz Ahmed, Siti Amrah Sulaiman, Atif Amin Baig, Muhammad Ibrahim, Sana Liaqat, Saira Fatima, Sadia Jabeen, Nighat Shamim, and Nor Hayati Othman; January 18, 2018

How does yoga work?; Medical News Today; Hannah Nichols; September 25, 2018

How Meditation Helps Your Immune System Do its Job; The Chopra Center;  Deepak Chopra, M.D 1/14/15

How sleep can boost your body’s immune response; Medical News Today; Maria Cohut, Ph.D; February 13, 2019

Immune-enhancing role of vitamin C and zinc and effect on clinical conditions; PubMed; Wintergerst ES, Maggini S, Hornig DH. ; 2006

In Brief: Tai chi gives immune system a boost; Harvard Medical School; Harvard University Publications; 2007

Is a Hot Toddy Really Good for a Cold? Doctors Explain; Fatherly; Lauren Vinopal;  Nov 11 2018

Jikiden Reiki® Services; Healing With Spirit

Modulation of Gut-Specific Mechanisms by Chronic Δ9-Tetrahydrocannabinol Administration in Male Rhesus Macaques Infected with Simian Immunodeficiency Virus: A Systems Biology Analysis; National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine; Patricia E. Molina, Angela M. Amedee, Nicole J. LeCapitaine, Jovanny Zabaleta, Mahesh Mohan, Peter J. Winsauer, Curtis Vande Stouwe, Robin R. McGoey, Matthew W. Auten, Lynn LaMotte, Lawrance C. Chandra, and Leslie L. Birke; 2014

New Research On How Yoga Boosts Your Immune System; Psychology Today; Marlynn Wei M.D., J.D.; February 22, 2018

Prospective study of probiotic supplementation results in immune stimulation and improvement of upper respiratory infection rate; National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine; Hong Zhang, Chiajung Yeh, Zonglian Jin, Liwei Ding, Bryan Y. Liu, Li Zhang, and H. Kathleen Dannelly; June 2018

Shinrin-Yoku (Forest Bathing) and Nature Therapy: A State-of-the-Art Review; National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine; Margaret M. Hansen, Reo Jones, and Kirsten Tocchini; 2017

Stress, Illness and the Immune System; Simply Psychology; Saul McLeod updated 2010

Therapeutic Manuka Honey: No Longer So Alternative; National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine; Dee A. Carter, Shona E. Blair, Nural N. Cokcetin, Daniel Bouzo, Peter Brooks, Ralf Schothauer, and Elizabeth J. Harry; April 20, 2016

The Synergistic Interplay between Vitamins D and K for Bone and Cardiovascular Health: A Narrative Review; National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine; Adriana J. van Ballegooijen, Stefan Pilz, Andreas Tomaschitz,  Martin R. Grübler, and Nicolas Verheyen; September 12, 2017

Three Lessons 2019 Taught Us, Three Things To Know About Navigating the 2020 Energies, & What It All Means; Healing With Spirit; Laura Joseph; January 3, 2020

Vitamin D and the Immune System; National Center for Biotechnology Information, U.S. National Library of Medicine; Cynthia Aranow, MD, Investigator ; 2012 Aug 1

Why Ashwagandha Root Could Be The Cure For The Western Epidemic of Stress Related Illness; Healing With Spirit; Laura Joseph; November 28, 2018

© 2020 Laura Joseph. All Rights Reserved. This information is for general educational uses only. It may not apply to you and your specific medical needs. This information should not be used in place of a visit, call, consultation with or the advice of your physician or health care professional. Communicate promptly with your physician or other health care professional with any health-related questions or concerns. This article does not share the opinions of Healing With Spirit or its affiliates.  Be sure to follow specific instructions given to you by your physician or health care professional.

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Public Hearing: Why MA Bill S. 168 Matters to ALL MA Residents

In this post:

  • A synopsis of MA Bill S 168
  • Why This Matters
  • My Views on WHY I oppose
  • Public Hearing Information
  • Issues list
  • Addresses for Legislators
  • References

A Synopsis of MA Bill S 168

A hearing date, OCTOBER 28TH, has been announced for Mass bill S 168
“An Act Regulating Bodyworks” under the guise of preventing sex trafficking.

Who will be joining me at the public hearing on Monday, October 28th in Boston, MA? This is not just about reiki. This bill affects:

  • yoga
  • meditation centers
  • Buddhist centers
  • martial arts
  • thai chi
  • psychic mediums
  • spiritual centers
  • wellness professionals
  • reiki
  • reflexology
  • professional caregivers
  • indigenous shamanic healing
  • death doulas
  • hospice volunteers
  • vulnerable populations – homeless, those face with addictions, senior citizens, low income, victims of rape, sexual assault, domestic violence, terminally ill, immigrant populations dependent on THEIR own cultural practices.
  • basically ANYONE who does ANYTHING that alters chi using word or touch. That is the entire population!

S.168 Summary:

S.168 is a bill that has been filed in the Massachusetts legislature by Senator Montigny under the guise of a solution to end human trafficking.  

The bill, if passed, would require professional licensure for more than 200 alternative and complementary holistic modalities, and offers no direct route to licensure.  

There is NO grandfather clause for seasoned well established practitioners in any of these modalities

In addition, S.168 would dramatically reduce healthcare options for the citizens of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.

Considering that I have personally witnessed healing in people where our broken healthcare failed except driving up immense healthcare costs to those individuals including myself into the $100,000’s and creating a culture of addiction.

The bill redefines holistic healthcare occupations as bodywork and affects all modalities that direct movement or work with energy aka “chi” (1).  The bill proposes a Board of Massage Therapy and Bodywork that would have 3 massage therapists and two bodywork professionals on it.  

These two body workers would have to set the educational requirements of more than 200 holistic disciplines and spiritually based practices that are the religions for many in the Commonwealth.  

In addition, you can only become licensed if you take courses at “state licensed schools“.  There are currently no state licensed schools that offer courses in the majority of these disciplines.

How You Can Help SAVE:

REIKI & OTHER spiritual based healing and/or holistic health modalities in Massachusetts:

Why This Matters

If this bill were to pass, it would become ILLEGAL for anyone to practice Reiki, any spiritual or professional practice that can alter “Chi” without a license.

Those receiving volunteer services through hospice, hospitals, non-profits, elder care, etc will NO longer be able to provide these services for a variety of reasons as listed in this post.

LICENSES ARE EXPENSIVE and Practitioners including volunteers need to start your education AGAIN FROM SCRATCH. Considering the MAJORITY of practitioners are VOLUNTEER, this would be devastating to those receiving as mentioned earlier.

WE NEED YOUR HELP TO STOP THIS HORRIBLE BILL!  

Not enough practitioners and/or receivers/benefactors of these modalities have taken the time to contact their legislators.

It is CRUCIAL FOR YOU TO ACT NOW.

EVERYONE COUNTS.  

Laura Joseph, Health Care Lobby Day, June 2018

My Views

Speaking as a survivor of rape and domestic abuse who was subsequently diagnosed with CPTSD taking decades to reclaim my life as well as someone with years doing advocacy work in Massachusetts for victims, SADLY THIS HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH SEX TRAFFICKING AND WON’T STOP IT.

I’ve met personally with several state senators and representatives who agree that this bill will NOT do as promoted. It is a shame that the propaganda sold to Massachusetts residents is that if you do not support this bill, then you are harming victims of sex trafficking. THIS IS FAR FROM THE TRUTH.

I have worked with survivors in varying capacity for over 14 years. Yes, there needs to be better laws to protect victims, but how do we legislate bad behavior, colonization mentality of women, young girls, and children when the laws currently on the books are NOT enforced?

This is a regulatory bill to regulate “Chi”(1) through the use of word or touch. How does one regulate “chi”? Really? When we think about this, this is frightening to me and very triggering to someone who is a trauma survivor who depended upon these very practices to SAVE MY OWN LIFE when our traditional healthcare model almost killed me and caused more harm.

In my opinion as a survivor of abuse and rape, advocate, and healer, this is a slap in our faces. This is a gross form of systemic abuse to every victim who has ever been abused or raped.

I have personally dedicated the last 14 years of my healing Journey and helping other survivors of abuse to heal in a variety ways where AGAIN our system FAILED.

I see predatory behavior quite easily AND THIS BILL is PREDATORY.

The state does not have the expertise to set the curriculum of more than 200 disciplines that derive from various “culturally appropriated indigenous and non-colonized foreign cultures” . The American collegiate system is NOT a leading authority in these practices. Those with bloodlines from these cultures who apprenticed students into teachers over YEARS of dedication and training ARE the leading authority.

This in my view is also another attempt to “COLONIZE” sacred teachings further causing irreparable harm to many spiritual based, indigenous, and immigrant cultures not to mention it is racist when you look at the origins of these modalities and who their real targets are.

Issues List   

S.168 would arbitrarily and inaccurately redefine hundreds of holistic occupations as bodywork. The broad definition of bodywork affects more than 200 diverse disciplines and professions and many thousands of practitioners (many of whom are women) who now provide for their families working in this field.  

Due to the restrictive standards set forth in the bill, many will be forced to close their doors, adversely impacting their household and children and increasing unemployment claims and WELFARE assistance increasing the burden on taxpayers.

S.168 would dramatically reduce citizen options for tens of thousands infringing on freedom of choice.

The proposed board of massage therapy and bodyworkers only has 2 bodyworkers to represent more than 200 holistic professions.

You can only become licensed if you take courses at state licensed schools. There are no state licensed schools that offer training in all these disciplines.

The state does not have the expertise nor are the leading authorities to set the curriculum of more than 200 disciplines as stated above earlier.

Why bodywork licensure is not a viable approach to addressing human trafficking:

Contrary to the Massachusetts Interagency Human Trafficking Policy Task Force recommendations, S.168 seeks to reduce human trafficking supply through occupational licensure rather than reducing the demand for human trafficking through enforcement of existing “John laws” or the
promulgation of sensible new laws.

Occupational licensing has not been recommended in the Uniform Act on Prevention of and Remedies for Human Trafficking drafted by the National Conference of Commissioners on Uniform State Laws in 2013; or by the US Department of State (see ’15 Ways You Can Help Fight Human Trafficking’}

The National Human Trafficking database reports only 4 cases of human trafficking in Massachusetts at illicit massage spas.  There is no accurate data on the number of human trafficking cases at illicit massage spas in MA as many counties combine prostitution cases with human trafficking cases when reporting data.

What YOU Can Do:

LEGISLATORS NEED TO HEAR FROM YOU NOW.

The fate of Reiki and ALL spiritually based integrative healing, holistic health, spiritual practices, martial arts is in YOUR hands.

  1. Attend the Public Hearing and give support to the individuals testifying. (We need a very large crowd to attend to show a strong opposition)   
  2. Give oral testimony which is limited to three minutes in length in opposition to S.168.  (See attached Giving Testimony Instructions and Testimony Worksheet)    
  3. Prepare written testimony and submit it at the Public Hearing.
  4. Prepare written testimony and email it to the Joint Committee on Consumer Protection and Professional Licensure (email addresses  below):


Email addresses of the Joint Committee on Consumer Protection &
Professional Licensure:

paul.feeney@masenate.gov ; Tackey.Chan@mahouse.gov ;
James.Welch@masenate.gov ;Jay.Livingstone@mahouse.gov ;
Diana.DiZoglio@masenate.gov ; Barry.Finegold@masenate.gov ;
Joseph.Boncore@masenate.gov ;
Ryan.Fattman@masenate.gov ; Jon.Zlotnik@mahouse.gov ;
Adrian.Madaro@mahouse.gov ; William.Driscoll@mahouse.gov ;
mindy.domb@mahouse.gov ;tami.gouveia@mahouse.gov ;
david.leboeuf@mahouse.gov ; Jack.Lewis@mahouse.gov ;
Steven.Howitt@mahouse.gov ;
joseph.mckenna@mahouse.gov

You may also include the bill sponsors:

Mark.Montigny@masenate.gov ; ago@state.ma.us ;
Alicia.Rebello-Pradas@state.ma.us ;Patricia.Haddad@mahouse.gov ;
Michael.Moore@masenate.gov ; Jason.Lewis@masenate.gov ;
Danielle.Gregoire@mahouse.gov ; Antonio.Cabral@mahouse.gov ;
david.robertson@mahouse.gov ;Steven.Ultrino@mahouse.gov ;
Patrick.OConnor@masenate.gov ; Mike.Barrett@masenate.gov ;
Becca.Rausch@masenate.gov ; Walter.Timilty@masenate.gov ;
Sal.DiDomenico@masenate.gov ;Joan.Lovely@masenate.gov ;
james.hawkins@mahouse.gov

Hearing Information:

Hearing Date:             Monday, October 28
Hearing Time:            11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Hearing Location:     Gardiner Auditorium

LOCATION:

Boston State House
24 Beacon Street
Boston, MA  02133

References

  1. Chi definition; Merriam Webster Dictionary ; Noun (often capitalized); “vital energy that is held to animate the body internally and is of central importance in some Eastern systems of medical treatment (such as acupuncture) and of exercise or self-defense (such as tai chi) “ – Chinese (Beijing) qì, literally, air, breath

FALMOUTH: Meditation/Stress Reduction

Have you ever gone to your physician while not well only to be told “it is just stress, go home & relax?”

The challenge is if you knew how to relax to begin with, you would not be at your doctor’s office seeking help. Right?

Many people feel they are spinning their wheels, not getting better & searching for answers with no feeling of end in sight. There is a direct connection between stress and different diseases.

Come join instructor Laura Joseph to learn more.

Held on 10/15 at Lawrence School: Tues – 6-8 pm – 1 week $49

REGISTRATION & CLASS INFORMATION

Click here for details and registration through The Falmouth Community Schools.

Reiki Vibrational Healing Meditation at Szabo

Join us for a mid day boost of healing, self care and relaxation and discover how simple Meditation combined with a Reiki and the vibratory sounds of Tibetan Singing Bowls can bring about a powerful positive quantum shift in your life as well as stimulate a profound relaxation response.

The combined form of meditation is a powerful healing and spiritual experience that can bring about relaxation, clairvoyance, increased healing, enhanced awareness, greater ability toward visualization, reduce stress, balance your energy and aid you in reaching goals.

Want to learn more?

Visit our Tibetan Bowl Healing Page

Check out our blog post:   Medical Study of the Effects of Singing Bowl Sound Meditation on Mood, Tension, and Well-Being

What to Bring:

  • Wear comfortable clothes
  • Bring a yoga mat or towel (limited chairs available for those who prefer to sit)
  • Bring a pillow for support for head and legs (optional)

See what others are saying about this class:

“I have attended, one of Laura’s Reiki meditation and attunment evenings and came away feeling like a new person. The energy was like nothing I have ever experienced before. Thank you, Laura! I am truly grateful, you are so very gifted!”

See more testimonials, Click here 

FOR THE LATEST UPDATES, visit our Facebook Events Page

Please arrive 5-10min prior to start so there will not be any interruptions during meditation.

To pre-register:

RSVP to Szabo Fitness & Acupuncture via email  or call 781-925-1941 no less than 24hrs prior to class for $25 rate. Walk-in rate $30.00

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Current Energies, Wisdom of the Body, and a Guided Meditation in Nature

Good morning from Webb Memorial State Park in Weymouth, MA.

Please join us as we will be talking about the current cosmic energies, what is happening, how it is affecting all of us individually and collectively and why the wisdom of the body holds the key to the answers you seek.

We will also talk about trauma, the health links, healing trauma, and what is happening now.

We will end with some mindful breathing and meditation in nature. Please stay til the end. There is some magic to be seen.

I hope you will join me and together let’s raise the vibration.

( Recorded on Facebook Live August 9, 2019)

Please

✔ Join in the conversation
✔ invite others to join
✔ Share on your wall or group

Did you know we now have a YouTube channel?

Please subscribe to my channel and scroll for complete playlists on spiritual vlogs, spirit messages, energy updates, nature meditations, mindfulness in nature, reiki and more.

Click here to view my channel and to subscribe. 

With love and appreciation,

Laura

Follow me:

Twitter 
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Did you know we now have a YouTube channel?

Please subscribe to our channel and scroll for complete playlists on spiritual vlogs, spirit messages, energy updates, nature meditations, mindfulness in nature, reiki and more.

Click here to view my channel and to subscribe.

To schedule a private session, to book a corporate wellness event, or speaking engagement, please private message me

SIGN UP FOR MONTHLY E-NEWS

 © 2015-2018 Laura Joseph. All Rights Reserved. This information is for general educational uses only. It may not apply to you and your specific medical needs. This information should not be used in place of a visit, call, consultation with or the advice of your physician or health care professional. Communicate promptly with your physician or other health care professional with any health-related questions or concerns. This article does not share the opinions of Healing With Spirit or its affiliates.  Be sure to follow specific instructions given to you by your physician or health care professional.
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Breaking Free From The Chains Of The Past

Trauma …

Trauma … We have all been affected by trauma one way or another in our lifetime. However, we may not realize how a traumatic event may have affected our life or impacted our soul.

The challenge is trauma doesn’t affect us the way we perceive it. It affects us on a cellular and soul level and may not even be in our own awareness leading to chronic illness, cancer, pain, poor relationships, etc.

So, when I read the following quote, it struck me and gave me lots to ponder on and contemplate ultimately leading to this post:

“If your mind carries a heavy burden of past, you will experience more of the same. The past perpetuates itself through lack of presence.” – Eckhart Tolle

I am going on my 13th year when I made a crucial decision to leave an abusive relationship and begin my healing path for first time in my life.

One of the things that I have learned in my 13 years, is that the more I connected to the divine within, soul, inner child, it also reveals the root cause that wounded my core. I began to discover the roots to my fears, insecurities, and my own self sabotaging behaviors … to the place it all began … the seed that began decades before I married an abuser.

I began my healing journey broken wondering how to put all the pieces of me back together.

I began to employ traditional therapies (which didn’t help me much), support groups, spiritually based practices such as developing my sequestered intuition, meditation, reiki, acupuncture, journaling, dance, connecting to nature and more.

We have technology which is supposed to make us more connected than ever. However, we are actually more disconnected than ever. We are not connected to the very life that breathes underneath our feet, Mother Earth. We are not connected to our own BE-ing or essence.  We live in a society of wanting everything now, instant gratification, and a “plugged in” to that technology 24/7.

Unfortunately, healing doesn’t work like that. Employing a one day at a time mindset goes a long way as well as a lot of self-compassion. Learning new ways “to be” takes time. Discovering you again takes time. Developing new skill sets to heal takes time. Finding someone to help you who has the skill sets is huge if you can find that coach/healer.

Employing a mindset of presence helped me with my trauma, PTSD, anxiety and the physical illness that resulted from my trauma. There’s many ways to learn the art of presence whether through meditation or mindfulness-based practices, but from me, learning Jikiden Reiki changed everything for me. This is where I have seen the most growth in my life since I began this journey in 2005.

Want to learn more?

Please join me at one of these 4 events this spring:

Check out

Copy right 2018. Laura Joseph, Healing With Spirit.  All Rights Reserved. May not be copied or reproduced without expressed written consent

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LOTS of BIG stuff happening in MA & RI from as well as the launch of my spiritual mugs & t-shirt line. ..💜 Sun March 11th: SPRING HEALTH AND WELLNESS FAIR; Free Demonstration At 4:15pm; The Purple Cat Winery in RI. ..🇨🇮🎂 Fri, March 16th 6:30-9:30pm; join me for some played by my Arnie & his group & share my w me at Players in, Ma ..💙 Mon March 19th; REIKI VIBRATIONAL HEALING w/ in. ..💙 Mon March 19th; OPEN.. 💓 Sat March 31st 1-4pm; LEARN HOW TO BLESS YOUR JUNK AND TAKE YOUR LIFE BACK NOW. ..💜 Sun April 8th; HEALTHY LIVING EXPO AND CONFERENCE. Featured Presenter Through the System of Reiki at Hotel 1620 Ma ..💕 Sun May 20th; SURRENDER TO, JOURNEY INTO SELF DISCOVERY, & NURTURE YOUR SOUL – RETREAT w Laura & Deneen; Plymouth, Ma

LOTS of BIG stuff happening in MA & RI from as well as the launch of my spiritual mugs & t-shirt line. . . 💜 Sun March 11th: SPRING HEALTH AND WELLNESS FAIR; Free Demonstration At 4:15pm; The Purple Cat Winery in RI. . . 🇨🇮🎂 Fri, March 16th 6:30-9:30pm; join me for some played by my Arnie & his group & share my w me at Players in, Ma . . 💙 Mon March 19th; REIKI VIBRATIONAL HEALING w/ in. . . 💙 Mon March 19th; OPEN . . 💓 Sat March 31st 1-4pm; LEARN HOW TO BLESS YOUR JUNK AND TAKE YOUR LIFE BACK NOW. . . 💜 Sun April 8th; HEALTHY LIVING EXPO AND CONFERENCE. Featured Presenter Through the System of Reiki at Hotel 1620 Ma . . 💕 Sun May 20th; SURRENDER TO, JOURNEY INTO SELF DISCOVERY, & NURTURE YOUR SOUL – RETREAT w Laura & Deneen; Plymouth, Ma

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Surrender To Self Care and Nurture Your Soul RETREAT

Feeling depleted? Overwhelmed? Stressed? It is time to press pause. Let go of your obligations and responsibilities just for one day to replenish and tickle your soul. You ready to take some “you time”?

Women hold the medicine our world needs. Join us for a full day surrendering into self-care, journeying into self-discovery, nurturing your soul, and community.  Spend the day with us pampering the soul and lifting your spirit. This is about YOU.

This retreat is designed to help you create a deeper awareness and connection to the inner wisdom in a very nurturing environment.

Get back to you … Your authentic you.

Here is a small taste of your day:

  • A deeper discovery into self through an enrichment circle
  • Self-care and soul-fillment experientials
  • Renewal and reflection with Journaling and Creative Arts
  • Spiritual journeys of self-discovery and exploration in nature (earth, wind, fire, water)
  • Reiki vibrational healing meditationwith the Tibetan Singing Bowls
  • Quiet time in nature
  • Connect with like-minded community
  • Get out of your mind and into your body and heart through conscious movement, music, dance, and energetic explorations of a Journey Dance* guided by Deneen McQueen
  • Healthy lunch, light snacks, and water provided.

Empower yourself and your soul. This will be a powerful interactive day with built in quiet time to go within. You will no doubt leave more empowered and living more in vibrational alignment with your authentic truth. 

What previous attendees had to say:

“Highly recommend”
“Love it. An Awesome day! Thank you.”
“I loved the bowls (OMG)”

“This was the best retreat I have been to and I go to a lot.”

“Others should know how relaxed and calm you will feel.”

“This retreat exceeded my expectations”.

“I loved it all – enough movement & contemplation – nicely balanced!”

“I thoroughly enjoyed Laura’s ability to guide me back to my inner self and appreciate me for all that I am.”

“Laura has a unique ability to guide attendees and help them become more in tune with themselves. She helps all see the beauty within and gives the tools to continue the work on your your own and carry it forward.”

“The journey dance experience was extraordinary”

What To Bring:

  • Dress comfortable with wear loose, easy to move in clothing for movement, but be mindful  and suitable of weather
  • Yoga mat
  • Comfortable shoes for movement and nature
  • Wear/Bring socks or bare feet for journey dance
  • A pen or colored pencils
  • Something for our sacred space (sage, flowers, herbs, crystals, etc)
  • Optional: Something to share with others for goodie bag (samples, biz coupons, etc)
  • An open mind
  • A smile

Retreat time:

Doors Open: 8:00 am

Social Gathering, Creative Time: 8am

Retreat:  8:30 am-5pm (with breaks for snack and lunch)

*About This Event’s Journey Dance Portion:

Get out of your mind and into your body and heart through conscious movement, music, dance, and the energetic explorations of JourneyDance.

Through a combination of dance, expressive arts, sacred drama, supportive mentoring, and contemplative process guided by Deneen McQueen, discover how to live your life with enthusiasm, passion, and purpose.

All are welcome to become part of this vibrant community and share this journey of self-exploration and self-acceptance.  Absolutely no dance experience necessary!

LOOKING FOR A WHOLE WEEKEND? 

Local accommodations at Nantasket Beach Resort located approximately 1-2mi from the retreat. On the beach with swimming pool and spa. Private units complete with fireplaces.

 

To Register:

Option 1:  Please mail a check made payable to “Laura Joseph” and mail to Cohasset Medical, Att: Laura, 256 Hull St, Hingham, MA 02043. Put in subject line Oct Retreat with email address.  

Option 2: Pay online via eventbrite. Click here to pay with credit card.

INVESTMENT:

$175    –  Healthy lunch, coffee, tea, water and snacks included

Plus, goodie bag for each attendee, raffle, custom notebook, and more.

For latest updates, please check out our Facebook Event by clicking here.

Vibrational Healing Meditation w/ The Tibetan Singing Bowls

Tibetan Singing Bowls have been used by Tibetan monks for centuries for healing and meditation purposes. These bowls create a range of sounds to restore the normal vibratory frequencies of diseased and out-of-harmony parts of the body, mind and soul.

Join us for an evening of healing and relaxation and discover the power of simple Meditation with the vibratory sounds of Tibetan Singing Bowls. Stimulate a profound relaxation response that bypasses the brain and targets the cellular tissues directly inviting powerful positive quantum shifts in your body, mind, spirit and life.

Experience a powerful healing and spiritual encounter that can

  • stimulate a profound relaxation response,
  • increase clarity,
  • achieve greater inner peace,
  • generate greater healing,
  • enhance awareness,
  • provoke greater ability toward visualization,
  • balance your energy
  • and aid you in reaching goals.

Want to learn more?

Visit our Tibetan Bowl Healing Page

Check out our blog post:   Medical Study of the Effects of Singing Bowl Sound Meditation on Mood, Tension, and Well-Being

 

Retreats & Events

See what others are saying about this class:

“I have attended, one of Laura’s Reiki meditation and attunment evenings and came away feeling like a new person. The energy was like nothing I have ever experienced before. Thank you, Laura! I am truly grateful; you are so very gifted!”

See more testimonials, Click here 

FOR THE LATEST UPDATES, visit our Facebook Events Page

Please arrive 5-10min prior to start so there will not be any interruptions during meditation.

MOST classes are facilitated sitting NOT lying down.

Investment: $25 with registration with at least 24 hrs. Less than 24hrs is the drop in rate.

**To Register via paying cash at the event, click here.

** Please note that if you choose this option, and you do not show up nor cancel with a minimum 24 hrs notice, you will be required to pay in advance moving forward.

To Register via credit card, visit eventbrite here.

Drop ins: $30 (Cash Only – NO Venmo)

ABOUT YOUR FACILITATOR:

Our facilitator is Laura Joseph of Healing With Spirit. She has a private office located on the water in Hingham, Ma where she has been providing spiritually based holistic health enrichment services and classes since 2006.

Laura has been combining all her trainings over the years that have led her to facilitate this combination style meditation since 2008. She continues to grow and transform as to follow her spiritual purpose offering this style of meditation in her office, in groups, during retreats and women’s circles, as well as in corporate wellness programs.

To learn more about Laura, click here.

Reiki Vibrational Healing Meditation

Join us for an evening of healing and relaxation. We chose to do this just prior to our reiki share. You may come to one or join us for both.

Join us and discover how simple Meditation combined with a Reiki healing attunement and the vibratory sounds of Tibetan Singing Bowls can bring about a powerful positive quantum shift in your life as well as stimulate a profound relaxation response.

The combined form of meditation is a powerful healing and spiritual experience that can bring about relaxation, clairvoyance, increased healing ability, enhanced awareness, greater ability toward visualization, balance your energy and aid you in reaching goals.

See what others are saying about this class:

“I have attended, one of Laura’s Reiki meditation and attunment evenings and came away feeling like a new person. The energy was like nothing I have ever experienced before. Thank you, Laura! I am truly grateful, you are so very gifted!”

See more testimonials, Click here.

To pre-register: Call 857-880-0365 or  Contact us. 

FOR THE LATEST UPDATES, visit https://www.facebook.com/events

Please arrive 5-10min prior to start so there will not be any interruptions during meditation.