living roots wise

This Site Has Moved...

2012-01-16T18:36:00.002-05:00

Hi All! So I have finally combined my blog and my website into one site! I will no longer be posting on this site so if you would like to continue 'following' my posts then feel free to do so at: Roots Wise Wellness Hope to see you all on the other side!!! Meg

The Daily Practice! Insomnia and the Art of Rest!

2011-12-19T12:20:00.007-05:00

Every few months I battle a bout of insomnia. It's not fun and it sure ain't pretty! It takes a hold from seemingly out of nowhere and then a few days fly by and I'm feeling funky, feeling down, overwhelmed and can't seem to catch up. I learn a lot every time. I learn that I am only human, that I can only do so much, that I am in love with life more than I know and that just because I want to live it fully and share it fully does not mean that I have to do so in one week and that by not doing so does not make me any less of a woman. I learn that I have to intervene before it comes on, that I need to not stress on the things that I can't control and that I need to let go. I learn that each day I need to take time to reflect, to slow down and let life happen. More often than not I sleep with no problems as my body is often so damn ready for it, but then moments like last week happen and I need to refocus. Sleep is so important, it is our ally. Without it we get caught in a viscous cycle of up, down, up down....stimulants to keep us going and going which makes us more wasted and in more need. Adequate sleep is a must in any attempt to live a healthy life. It is just as important in the clean living - healthy living cycle as quality nutrition, movement and stress reduction. While we sleep at night, we heal and recuperate from the wear and tear of our day. Our liver and digestive system gets to catch up on all we gave it to deal with throughout the day. While we sleep is when our liver is alive, detoxifying and reinvigorating. Unfortunately, more and more people find it necessary to cut back on their sleep. The consequences for their health and quality of life can be devastating. "Clinical studies have shown that sleep deprivation can be a contributing factor to a number of lifestyle-related illnesses – among them obesity, diabetes, hypertension and heart disease. Patients with persistent sleep deficits have routinely shown alterations in their metabolism, inhibiting their ability to manage glucose levels by making their cells increasingly insulin resistant.

Sleeplessness can lead to imbalances in the release of stress hormones, such as cortisol. Potential consequences are weakening of the immune system, risk of a variety of chronic illnesses as well as psychological effects, such as memory loss, mood swings and depression. Sleep deprivation may also have a significant impact on one’s life expectancy."

Damn if that ain't enough to convince you to get some quality sleep....what then do you need?!

Here are a few tips to help you get a good night's sleep:

Exercise....yes! It’s actually known to help you sleep better. Your body uses the sleep period to recover its muscles and joints that have been exercised. Twenty to thirty minutes of exercise every day can help you sleep, but be sure to exercise in the morning or afternoon. Exercise stimulates the body and aerobic activity before bedtime may make falling asleep more difficult...at least that's what I find sometimes.

Stick to a schedule: Sticking to a schedule allows your body to set its internal rhythm so you can get up at the time you want, consistently, every single day....this I need to work on!

Taking a hot shower or bath before bed helps bring on sleep because they can relax tense muscles.

Avoid eating just before bed. Give yourself at least 2 hours from when you eat to when you sleep. This allows for digestion to happen (or at least start) well before you go to sleep so your body can rest well during the night, rather than churning away your food

Avoid caffeine at night....duh right? Not always easy to remember to do for me when I want to keep going....Mate is just soooo good!!

Drink an herbal tea blend for sleep...see below.

Read a book in bed. Not only are you learning alot but you can take your mind away form your own life

Avoid alcohol before bedtime. It’s a depressant; although it may make it easier to fall asleep, it causes you to wake up during the night. As alcohol is digested your body goes into withdrawal from the alcohol, causing nighttime awakenings and often nightmares for some people and it makes your liver have to focus on that and not all the other stuff it needs to focus on while doing it's job over night

Here is an exercise I find very helpful to practice every evening before bed (I just need to do it more!):

Lie down in a quiet place and place a glass of water beside you
Relax the muscles in your body. Go through and consciously relax your legs, butt, abdomen, back, shoulders, arms, neck and face
Let all the tension of the day subside and bring your attention to your breathing
Let your inhalation naturally become a little deeper and your exhalation a little longer
As you take 3 slow breaths imagine your body becomes filled with water, as pure as a mountain stream. Feel the water regenerate all your cells, removing toxins and filling them with vitality
Bring your attention back to reality and sit up. Slowly drink the glass of water. With each sip taste the water and be aware that the major constituent of your body is water. Be aware that this water is purifying and detoxifying.
Now go pee before you go to bed!

Herbs for sleep:

Being an herbalist, I have experimented plenty and have worked with many people on a wide variety of issues. One of which is often the sleep issue. Here is a quickie on 2 herbs for sleep, addressing either the mind or the body...but be in touch if you want/need more specifics for YOU! However, nothing should replace the need to get to the root of why you are not sleeping.

Passionflower: One of my personal favorites! Passionflower is great for folks who have trouble with sleep because their brain won't slow down. It helps to reduce some of the brain chatter as well as the anxiety and nervousness that may go along with it.

Valerian Root: Valerian is great for those who's body won't let them sleep. Those whose muscles are ticking away or digestive system is overworking. Valerian helps to reduce the amount of time it takes to slip into a deep sleep.

Sundown and Slowdown: For years I had a medicinal tea business. The teas were available throughout New England and this was one of my best sellers! It is a blend of chamomile, skullcap, passionflower, hope and california poppy. A great blend! And still available in bulk at Healthy Living in Burlington.

For kids having trouble sleep...Lemon Balm is often a great and tasty choice, either as tea or as a glycerite.

So my challenge to you for this week's Daily Practice is to mindful of your sleep!

The Daily Practice...Conscious Gifting

2011-12-13T11:37:00.010-05:00

Tis the time of year that many people are in search of the perfect gift to pass on to a loved one, a friend or a family member. I have to admit that I have a real hard time with this time of year, the concept of gift giving and with the amount of waste that abounds. We stopped giving gifts in my family a long time ago and we all are thankful. There are certainly ways of giving that don't require excess waste, dollars we don't actually have to be spent, and gifts that support the environment rather than exploit it. We have all heard this over the years, with every Christmas season that comes around: "Give the gift of love" and "Think about the needy" and "We don't need to show people we love them with gifts"....redundant right? We know it yet more often than not, do not follow it right because it really does feel good to give! I challenge you to live this. To continue to be the giver of yourself and your services, the environmentalist, the doer, etc...just do so by living it through this time of year as well. Christmas doesn't have to be an exception to your values and to doing what you know is right. At the risk of sounding "righteous" or a "downer" on christmans...think consciously about what you buy: is it really needed? Is is a waste of plastic? Don't you think kids and adults too, would rather have a full day - play date with you then get yet another toy that will only cause more clutter, create more use of hazardous plastic and ultimately end up tossed aside and then in the landfill. Teach them how to ride a bike, climb a tree, snowboard, play music, make art, cook etc...gifts that last and create incredible people! One of my favorites is to do IOU's! I owe you a garden in the spring, I owe you a night out dancing, I owe you a home cooked meal, I owe you a poem, I owe you a handmade scarf, I owe you a nutrition consultation, I owe you a movement program....share your talents, your passions and exploit the dreams of your loved ones!!! Get creative! Make something out of 'nothing'!! Turn your junk into art! Check out this video about making something out of seemingly nothing and giving back to the environment at the same time. Great video, great message, well worth the watch! One Beach Video This week and next week's Daily Practice is about cutting back on the waste, getting creative with gifts and being mindful of the waste you are creating. Give the gift your talents, your services or donate to a cool nonprofit in there name! If you want to check out non profits to donate to in someone's name, here are a few spots that have great lists: One Percent for the Planet or check The Year of Giving Adventurously Give the Gift of Living Life Alive!! Give the gift of the BEST F-ING YEAR!

The Daily Practice! The Great Caffeine Debate!

2011-12-05T19:39:00.006-05:00

I feel as though lately, I have had alot of people ask me my thoughts on coffee and caffeine, esp as alot of people are doing the Roots Wise cleanse and talking about eliminating coffee from their diet. My take is that caffeine in and of itself is not a bad thing...rather it's how we incorporate caffeine into our lives that can make it harmful. Along with excess caffeine consumption seems to come excess stress. We create a vicious circle of stress and fatigue with the use of excess stimulants, for our bodies to have to deal with. Often lack of energy starts with sub-optimum nutrition leading to fatigue which leads to the use of stimulants for energy.... leading to an over use of stimulants causing stress, anxiety, mood swings and even more fatigue from the crash....leading to a dependence on stimulants causing exhaustion, depression, chronic fatigue and an inability to cope with stress....all of which ultimately leads to withdrawal and all the BS that comes with that!!! Sounds like a damn good time eh?! Key to all of this is the word EXCESS. There are so many debates going on about whether or not caffeine is good for you or not and so much research being done to prove both points. After so much research and experimenting on my own, I believe that since caffeine is something that has been ingested for thousands of years (via various herbs around the world) there has to have some redeeming qualities...If I didn't think so, I would have started an Energy Tea Company! In an attempt to continue to keep the Daily Practice posts brief, here is a quick summary:

Caffeine in moderation can be good for us on so many levels
Caffeine in excess, in any form, can lead to adrenal burn out, chronic fatigue, depression, etc, etc, etc!!!
Make your caffeine count by choosing sources that are richer in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants such as green tea or yerba mate
If you crave real - long lasting energy: decrease your caffeine consumption, increase your water intake, get plenty of sleep and MOVE!!
Limit coffee or tea to no more than 2-3 cups/day...remember a cup is 8 oz not 24!

There are various sources of caffeine and an energy boost out there...know what you are ingesting and make the best choice. Moderation is the key to living a long, healthy, energized life! Your challenge this week for the Daily Practice: be conscious of your caffeine intake from all the various sources that surround us, do some of your own research, cut back as best you are able and take time to enjoy it...there are tea rituals all over the world for a reason....but it's how and when we ingest that determines how it affects us. Live a life with less stress!

The Daily Practice!! This is SERIOUS!!!!

2011-11-20T18:38:00.006-05:00

Your Daily Practice for every day for the rest of your life....reduce your consumption of plastic as drastically as you can!

Plastic has taken over, taken control of our lives and soon will be the death of us as a species after it kills our oceans...Sound a little dramatic I know but it's not at all. What we have created, plastic, will ultimately destroy us. The evidence is undeniable and devastating. We have already heard of the dangerous effects that the chemicals in plastic have on humans...

Direct toxicity, as in the cases of lead, cadmium, and mercury
Carcinogens, as in the case of diethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP)
Endocrine disruption, which can lead to cancers, birth defects, infertility issues, immune system suppression and developmental problems in children.

But what about our environment, our oceans and all of marine life... Have you heard of the Great Pacific Garbage Patch?? It is destroying our ocean...and we can take action!!

"Most of our waste today is comprised of plastic. Plastic, which is made from petroleum, is a material that the Earth cannot digest. Every bit of plastic that has ever been created still exists, except for a small amount that has been incinerated, releasing toxic chemicals.

In the ocean, plastic waste accumulates in swirling seas of debris, where plastic to sea life ratios are 6:1; where birds and mammals are dying of starvation and dehydration with bellies full of plastics; where fish are ingesting toxins at such a rate that soon they will no longer be safe to eat.

The largest of these garbage swills is known as the Pacific Gyre, or The Great Pacific Garbage Patch. It is roughly the size of Texas, containing approximately 3.5 million tons of trash. Shoes, toys, bags, pacifiers, wrappers, toothbrushes, and bottles too numerous to count are only part of what can be found in this accidental dump floating midway between Hawaii and San Francisco."

Please, please watch this video: Great Pacific Garbage Patch This utterly disgusts me, infuriates me, makes me want to do everything I can....hence why I am sharing this with you. This time of year plastic surrounds us at even more alarming rates. Black Friday is around the corner...boycott it! Cut your consumption of plastic, eliminate the use of so many plastic bags and so many plastic water bottles. With an estimated trillion single use plastic bags being consumed around the globe every year, earth's fragile eco-systems are crying out for help. Countless species are suffering from the litter of plastic bags which are designed to be used only once and then tossed into the heap. This christmas, give more by giving life. Think about your purchases before you swipe the card...even better don't swipe them at all. Give gifts that mean more, that last a lifetime...gifts of friendship, time spent, health, a cleaner environment/home for your kids and grandkids. Instead donate to a your favorite organization working to clean our oceans in your loved one's name. Here are a few examples:

The 1% for the Planet website has a great database of non-profits to check out. Right now is the time for so many reasons. We as a society are fired up right now, not just aobut the state of our environment but also the state of our economy and class division. This last quarter is what the giant corps, that we are fighting against, are literally banking on! Boycott Black Friday. Boycott consumerism. Boycott plastic. Do what you can, even if it's only a little right now...every bit helps. Please, pretty please!!

Best F-ing Year!!

2011-11-17T05:56:00.013-05:00

“The Best F-ing Year”-A bold new concept designed with the sole purpose to inspire people worldwide to have the best year of their lives and spread the message to others.

This is NOT a business idea and the goal of this is not to generate income but instead to generate positive ACTION in peoples lives. This is not at all solely about fitness or health or losing 30 pounds. It is about each and every persons interpretation of living each and every day fully culminating into a years worth of those experiences.

We are trying to start a revolution of living life fully for everyone. Most of us here are blessed to know how to live fully and full of adventures but we are living in a world of 1 in 3 obesity and rampant unhappiness. let's help those people, ourselves and everyone else looking for a little inspiration!

T-Shirts Are Available!!

We started with a small batch to see and now need more! People are stoked and want to spread the word! Your "F-ing" can mean whatever you want it to!

We will be placing another shirt order on or around December 5th. Get your order in now! Gift giving season is around the corner....why not give those you care about the gift of inspiration! Forget about material itmes and inspire instead...it lasts a whole hell of alot longer! A portion of the procedds from each T-shirt sale will go to various charities as the word spreads. The first organization we picked will be the Maple Street Bike Park in Essex, Vt. The bike park will be a rad community gathering spot to hone your skills, get out and learn to ride a bike, practice your dirt jumping technique and straight up just move!!

T-shirts are black with White lettering across the front for the men and charcoal with white lettering for the ladies. The ladies will be a slimmer fitting women's shirt. (in the pic below Skye is wearing a men's brown with black and white design...these new ones will just be black and white like the logo)

$15 for short sleeve and $20 for long sleeve (men's only) (few more bucks this batch b/c we went with higher quality tees and this doesn't include shipping if you want us to ship)

Shirts come with some stickers too! Start tagging your own stuff or other people's stufff....below is a sample of what we have been up to!

Send a check to Megan Walsh or Skye Nacel at:

P.O. Box 897

Morrisville, VT 05661

And we'll get you your goods to you by Dec 20th one way or another!

If you want us to ship shirts to you...add $5.00 for S&H.

Fall Cleanse Complete and Feeling Like a Rock Star!

2011-11-17T05:49:00.008-05:00

So Skye and I just finished up our week long fall cleanse! And we are both feeling so incredible! The cleanse is an easy way to get back on track, clean out your system of sugar, toxins and general junk, and set a solid foundation to get back on track with healthy living! We are energized, feeling lighter and less bogged down. We ate alot of greens, soups, roasted veggies and desser was a Skye special...plain yogurt with blueberries, walnuts, chia, and flaxmeal..so damn good! Pics below along side our jugs of detox tea. We got a bunch of folks inspired to do the same and the feedback is rock solid. Check out a few posts ago for info on the cleanse or get in touch with me if you are ready to get yourself back on track! This is what Skye said of his experience: "Just finished up 7 days of this and feeling amazing in areas all over. Mental clarity, digestion, libido etc are some of the few areas things have really ramped up and relearned some new habits about eating that are gonna stay with me forever! You can teach an ol' dawg new tricks!"

The Daily Practice....Get outside!

2011-11-09T11:59:00.013-05:00

Hey all! This week the Daily Practice is all about being outside! We're lucky this week that the weather is incredible and it makes us crave being outdoors....but we are heading into winter. Soooo...in anticipation of your tendencies to stay inside, get practicing being outside! It is sooo important to keep moving outdoors all year round...Vitamin D is missing in a big way in our lives in the winter and spending some time outside each day will help the your mood and spirit throughout the winter. Fresh air, another good reason, no explanation needed! If you chosen to live in cold climates....deal with it right! Get outdoors and have some fun one way or another!

This week Skye and I hung out with some 8th graders at the Barnet School for their Movement Adventure class with Skye of Mocean365. It was freakin' crazy to see the kids in the classroom, which is where we started (only for intros though) vs outside. They had these glazed over looks on their faces, and they looked annoyed, bored and fairly uninterested. Then Skye got them outside as soon as possible to MOVE...and instantly their faces lit up, their personalities appeared and they were laughing and running around like the awesome animals they are!

So for the next week...my recommendation for all of you is to get outside for as long as you can each and every day....and then DO NOT stop there when the weather turns...keep heading out, dressed accordingly and your body and mind will thank you! Hit us up for all the winter movement adventures we will be leading around VT and NH!

Fall Cleanse...Doing It Up!

2011-11-06T18:21:00.024-05:00

A couple times a year, Skye and I get all wild and crazy (a different kind of wild and crazy from our norm!) and do cleanse for a week or so. The 2 best times to do a cleanse (in my mind) are in the fall and in the spring. Going into winter we want our bodies to be in great shape...clean living kind of shape... so we can shred all winter! If we have to deal with the cold yet again (before we head out of dodge for warmer weather in the winters!) why waste that time being sick, feeling dragged down, stuffed up and pissy. It's so important to go into winter with strong bodies and strong immune systems. Our bodies take a beating, both good and bad, every day with what we put into them, how we treat them and how we move them. Cleansing helps our bodies recover, replenish and become reinvigorated so we can keep doing the things we love with all the energy we want! So what follows is the current cleanse we are about to start following (as of tomorrow!). Follow along with us or hit me up for more info if you want guidance or meal/food recommendations. It's not hard at all, just takes a little commitment and consciousness.

Fall Cleanse Rules

Drink 16 oz lemon water upon waking before anything

Each day aim to drink 1/2 your body weight in ounces of water

Have 1 tblsp of psyllium seed powder each day mixed in something (like a smoothie)

Drink at least 32oz of Roots Wise Detox Tea every day (counts toward total water intake)

On the lightest day (of activity) have nothing except The Master Cleanse Supercharged Water

Avoid Entirely!

All meats

All dairy (except plain yogurt with active cultures)

No corn (read labels...though if youhave to read a label, you probably shouldn't be eating it)

No wheat (read labels)

No added sweeteners

No caffeine (except green tea if needed)

When in doubt...Nothing White! (pasta, flour, crackers, potatoes, sugar etc)

No soda (ever!)

No vinegar (salad dressing can be olive oil and lemon)

No processed anything!

Enjoy Freely!

Fresh fruit (esp apples/pears/grapefruit)

Fresh veggies (raw or lightly steamed)

Add beets, leafy greens (kale/chard/spinach), seaweed

Limit grains to: brown rice, quinoa, oats

Breakfast Ideas:

Smoothies

Oatmeal with fruit

Grapefruit with yogurt

Snack Ideas:

Fresh fruit!

Veggies and Hummus

Guacamole

Nuts

Apples/pears with nut butter

The Master Cleanse Supercharged Water

1 quart water with 1 lemon squeezed in it then add 2-3 tblsp of maple syrup and cayenne to taste

Lemon wakes up the liver to detoxify, syrup provides glucose for energy since you aren't eating anything and cayenne provides warth and gets your blood pumping!

Drink ONLY this one day during your cleanse...no food, just this all day! Do this on a day that will be light in activity and when no important decisions are to be made!

The Daily Practice

2011-11-05T15:38:00.008-04:00

The Daily Practice is just that...about what we want and need to practice each day to create a life full of passion, learning, adventure and inspiration. We all have things we need to get better at or want to get better at...that could be anything from learning an instrument, how to cook or learning another language, to being more patient with those around you or practicing a better way of life. It came out of a conversation my man and I's had about our continuous desire to be better people by being more well rounded....I want to learn spanish so when we travel to the places we love, so I can show more respect to the people of that country and so I can laugh away with the kids we always end up playing with. I want to dig into more creative outlets, surf better and be a better health practitioner....so many things! In order to do these things, it takes daily practice, time and thought. The Daily Practice was also inspired by the many people that I have worked with over the years who have worked damn hard to get back on track with their health. It's not easy to go from the couch to your first 5k or your first adventure race and it sure as hell is not easy to go from eating like you know you shouldn't to eating REAL FOOD, especially when your surrounded by so much American food crap! It takes Daily Practice! We all have it in us but somehow we forget so easy...do the work, the practice and make life more passionate, inspiring and fun! I KNOW that this practice will turn us into better people, to be apart of a better community living in a better world, treating each other and our earth with more respect. Reminds me of a conversation we were having about getting our nephews into surfing, 'practicing' surfing...an amazing experience that can't help but turn them into stewards of the oceans and the earth. The Daily Practice was started on Roots Wise's Facebook page but I decided to move it to this medium so as to try to spread it to more people...so people can 'share' it and refer to it as much or as little as you want. That to me is what facebook should be about....spreading inspiration and stoke to all! So, I will post each week and link it to FB. Please feel free to comment or share pics of you in 'practice'! Each week I will post a thought or mission for you for that week....so far they have ranged from getting creative to being positive to eating more fruits and veggies. Random thoughts from a random woman! Do the work and make it happen!

Fire Cider...Winter Tonic

2011-10-29T02:00:00.000-04:00

This time of year always begins with a batch of Fire Cider brewing and the brewing continues until the first sign of spring, though of course there's really no need to stop brewing no matter what time of year. Fire Cider... other names include Cyclone Cider, Dragon Water, etc., is a sweet, spicy, and sour blend of zesty herbs. Traditionally the recipe included ginger, horseradish, garlic, onion and cayenne in a base of apple cider vinegar. It has been attributed to many herbalists over many years and now you see it listed as a must in any kitchen, apothecary, outdoor adventurist's pack, hardy winter working hands, skiier, snowboarder and anyone else who wants to shred all winter and keep warm! I first fell in love with it living in California where I would devour it by the bottle and only until I noticed there was 1 or 2 gulps left, did I actually slow down and gingerly sip it, until I knew the next batch would be ready. Upon moving back to the east coast and true winters...I learned of it's true prowess. Fire Cider does just that! Fires you up! It gets the circulation pumping from the core out to your fingers and toes, it activtes the mind and body so you are alive and ready for whatever comes your way! What's the point of living in Vermont if you can't continue to enjoy the outdoors through each and every season! It also keep you immune system in action and ready for what my come your way. Since when did a winter cold and flu become the norm?! Our bodies can be kept strong and ready so as not to succumb to the bug out there...keep moving, get outside and breathe fresh air, sleep well, smile and drink fire cider for your health! The herbs I use today, mirror the traditonal herbs utilized, though occassionally I will add a variation. Ginger, for too many reasons to mention, is one of my favorite herbs and I will say I do go a bit heavy here. The beneficial properties of Fire Cider are well rounded and varied. As I mentioned above, most of the herbs have some degree of antibacterial properties and circulatory stimulating effects...it is an excellent tonic to see you through the winter months, helping you to ward off colds and flus and also keeping your blood warm. I will only scratch the surface here of their benefits...

Ginger helps to stimulate peripheral circulation, keeping your hands and feet warm and your brain active. It also provides added warmth to your second chakra center, (ah that's the loins by the way...!) which is always of benefit in these cool winter months! Ginger also aids in stomach issues including nausea and vomiting and sluggish digestion.

Horseradish, yet another favorite, has excellent antibacterial properties and is of much benefit in respiratory tract and urinary tract infections. It is also effective for promoting stomach secretions and is often used as a digestive agent. Garlic, ahhhhh garlic, what more need I say!

On to cayenne, which offers a more intense stimulating effect on the circulatiory system than say ginger and is very useful to promote the movement of mucous from the body as well as acting as an antiinflammatory, which often our whole body needs, both inside and out. So, all of this in a base of apple cider vinegar and bam! What you are left with, after a few weeks of patience and tempered desires to just open the damn jar, is a stimulating, fire inducing, antimicrobial, immune stimulating kick to the blood flow which will keep you warm, help remove wastes from the body and fight infection at the same time.

A basic recipe: Chop: 1/4 cup fresh horseradish root, 1/2 cup fresh ginger root, 1/2 cup of onion, 1/8 -1/4 cup of garlic (depending on your likes), and 1/2 -1 fresh cayenne pepper. (if you can't find fresh cayenne pepper, feel free to use freshly dried cayenne pepper) Place all of the above in a glass quart jar and cover with apple cider vinegar. To avoid the metal rusting on your metal mason jar lid separate the lid from the jar with a piece of unbleached parchment paper...or don't use a metal lid! Allow this yummy concoction to seep for at least 2 weeks or up to 3 months. My favorite results come after 6-8 weeks of seeping when the layers of ginger and horseradish have been allowed to fully unfold. The flavor will change as you go. Of course dive in at any point if you must.

When you have decided it's time to dig in...strain the goods from the vinegar into another glass jar. May be kept out of the fridge as vinegar is a natural preservative. If your blend is to spicy or you like it sweet...add some honey.

How to Use Fire Cider: My favorite way is to gulp, though since I know that's not the best way...I advise you to sip! 1-2 tblsp/day is a great dose as a tonic. It can be taken up to 3x/day with the first signs of a cold or upper respiratory tract infection. Another way to get your daily dose in is to use it as a base for a salad dressing or to flavor steamed veggies. Fire Cider can be used externally as a compress for sore muscles or to aid peripheral circulation. So, gather your roots together and spice up your life!

New Roots Wise Website!!

2010-06-06T17:56:00.004-04:00

After a solid year of working on this thing...going from being super stoked on it to being incredibly frustrated...the website is up and running! Here you can find info about Roots Wise Wellness consultations, RW herbal teas, RW classes and latest adventures as well as a blurb and link to Mocean Mate! You can also check out some links to some awesome businesses that I love and support on the contact and links page.

www.rootswisewellness.com

Mocean Mate Launch Party!!

2010-05-17T22:03:00.005-04:00

Mocean Mate is alive and kicking and we are ready to share the goods and spread the good word!! Join us on June 19th in Morrisville, VT for the Mocean Mate Mud City Mayhem Kick Off Celebration!! All day fun including biking on some of the Mud City trails practically out the back door, plenty of other events to keep ya entertained, music and bonfire at night, over 200 acres to play on and camp out on!! The Mocean Mate tent will be set up for you to taste our all new All Natural Energy Drink! And there will be Mocean Mate T-shirts for sale and free bumper stickers for you to plaster around! We are super stoked on our new venture and hope you will be too...it is NOT to be missed!!

All About Herbs Class!

2010-04-24T21:05:00.004-04:00

What better way for me to stay on top of herbal information and share the incredible information, than to teach about it!! Starting May 6th I will be teaching a 3 part series on Herbs A - Z. The classes will run May 6th, 13th and 20th from 6-8pm and will be held at Sweet Hollow Herbs in Johnson, VT. Throughout this three part series we will explore a wide range of herbs with an emphasis on herbs that are either native to New England or that can be easily grown here. We will go over things like parts used/actions/traditional & modern uses/how to grow/how to harvest/how to prepare etc for each of the herbs. If you are interested in herbs or already have experience with working with herbs, come check it out...it will be of benefit to both the beginner and the experienced! The fee for all 3 classes is $75.00 ($25/class) or $60 for the series if you preregister by May 4th. Preregister with me at megewroot@yahoo.com or by calling 802-888-6262. Also check out the previous blog for the list of other classes in April and May!

Roots Wise Class Updates!

2010-04-18T22:08:00.012-04:00

Through Roots Wise and hopefully through my own choices, I am attempting to contribute to a healthier community. So, in a continued attempt to do so I am adding more free classes (or for a minor fee for supplies!) to bring info and education to anyone and everyone regarding herbs, nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. Classes in April and May will be held at Sweet Hollow Herbs in Johnson, Vt and Buffalo Mountain Coop in Hardwick, Vt. Check out the new list below! At Sweet Hollow Herbs in Johnson Vermont: All about Energy! - Donations will be accepted Wed April 28, 5pm – 7pm ~ Megan Walsh, Roots Wise Herbals Taking care of ourselves isn't always easy but when we take care of ourselves we have more energy and when we have more energy it's easier to take care of ourselves! Join Megan of Roots Wise in a discussion about energizing foods, herbs and nutrients that not only provide healthy, sustained energy but also support the body systems that nurture that sustained energy. Nourish and Support Your All Important Joints! - Donations will be accepted Tuesday May 11th, 5:30-7:30- Megan Walsh, Roots Wise Herbals Take care of your joints now to have years of injury and pain free movement throughout your life. In this class, we will discuss why joint nourishment & health is so crucial to living a fullfilling & adventure filled life & what herbs, foods, & supplements support the health of our joints. You will also learn a quick & easy movement series specific to joint nourishment & lubrication. Join Megan of Roots Wise in this discussion & hopefully decrease your joint pain now or learn how to avoid it all together! At Buffalo Mountain Coop in Hardwick, VT: If you missed the Cleanse & Detox class in March at Sweet Hollow Herbs...check it out at Buffalo Mountain Coop...a great class for anyone!!... Spring Cleanse and Detoxification Class - Megan Walsh Spring is a great time to cleanse the stagnation and debris that has accumulated over the winter. Learn about the food and herbs that make for a great spring cleanse to boost energy and rebuild that strong and vibrant mind, body and soul. We will discuss the physiology of detoxification and proper liver and digestive support. You will be presented with a step by step dietary plan, a quick, fun and simple movement sequence to get the blood flowing and you will go home with 3-5 days worth of a yummy detox tea! Megan Walsh is an herbalist and nutrition consultant. She sells teas at the Co-op (Roots Wise Herbals). She has taught various herb and nutrition classes over the years, lives in Morrisville and is a member of the coop! Fee - $10 Date and Time – Saturday, May 8th 6pm Place – Co-op Café To register contact megewroot@yahoo.com Joint Health Class - Megan Walsh Nourish and Support Your All Important Joints! Take care of your joints now to have years of injury and pain free movement throughout your life. In this class, we will discuss why joint nourishment & health is so crucial to living a fullfilling & adventure filled life & what herbs, foods, & supplements support the health of our joints. You will also learn a quick & easy movement series specific to joint nourishment & lubrication. Join Megan of Roots Wise in this discussion & hopefully decrease your joint pain now or learn how to avoid it all together! Fee - Donation Date and Time – Saturday, May 22nd 6pm Place – Co-op Café To register contact megewroot@yahoo.com ...please register with me via email for the Buffalo Mountain Coop classes at: megewroot@yahoo.com I will also be teaching a 3 part series class on "Herbs A-Z" on Thursdays May 6th, 13th and 20th. This class will focus on as many herbs as we can fit in, with an emphasis on herbs that are either native to New England or that can be easily grown here. We will go over things like parts used/actions/traditional & modern uses/how to grow/how to harvest/how to prepare etc for each of the herbs. Exact times to be announced but it will be an evening class on those nights for about 2 1/2-3 hours each night. I will send of a more detailed write up when i get to it!!! If you are interested in herbs or already have experience with working with herbs, come check it out...it will be of benefit to both the beginner and experienced!

Camps, Classes, & Events!

2010-03-06T11:01:00.029-05:00

It's time to give you all an update with the happenings of Roots Wise... First off, starting on March 9th (this tuesday! get geared up and sign up!)is the first in a series of Adventure Conditioning Camps put on by Skye of Mocean365. Throughout the camps Roots Wise will be offering nutritional support and counseling for all those who preregister to fuel the fire and keep you active and healthy! What Mocean365 has to say about the camps: They will be on Tuesdays outside from 5-30- 7pm in Waterbury VT. The first camp called "Base Camp" is just that. Setting a base with general conditioning in a group setting outside. Nutrition work will be done by Roots Wise so you can get your machine running smooth. Movement and diet in one shot! Work the body in all planes of movement as we prepare for the more challenging work to come. Lots of fun, play based moves as well that will have you laughing as you are challenged, imagine that?! No stuffy gyms here, just fresh air, the elements(snow, rain, or shine) and preparing our body so we can do the stuff we love better and longer. Like ride our bikes, ski/board, or maybe just chase around the kids and be generally more fit and healthy and prevent injuries before they happen. We are also pleased to have some great sponsors providing support in the surrounding community. The Alchemist, Vermont Peanut Butter, I-Ride, Five Hills Bikes, and IdeRide will be adding to the goodies with some discounts and schwag as well! Big thanks to all of them! Did we mention the camps are right next to the Alchemist so lots of good food after and maybe a cold drink! Contact us asap to sign up for any of the three series of camps. Camp One- "Base Camp" March 9th-March 30th 4 session- $80 Camp Two- "Shreddy Ready Camp" April 20th-May 25th 6 sessions- $100 Camp Three-"Ready Rippers Camp" June 15th-July 20th 6 sessions- $100 Contact mocean365@gmail.com or call (802)888- 6262 to reserve your spot NOW! On March 13th come check out Roots Wise and many other incredible Vermont producers at "The Taste Of LACE". If you haven't checked out LACE yet, they are must...a hardworking crew of people all about supporting the community that sustains them. They are a grocery store, cafe and community kitchen all wrapped up in one and they fully support local agriculture, food producers and crafters in every way they can. Then on March 14th, I will be teaching a Spring cleanse class at Sweet Hollow Herbs in Johnson, Vt...come join me...it's FREE!! (but I do accept donations!) Spring Cleansing Class - Donations will be accepted Sun. March 14, 12pm – 2pm ~ Megan Walsh, Roots Wise Herbals Spring is a great time to cleanse the stagnation and debris that has accumulated over the winter. Learn about the food and herbs that make for a great spring cleanse to boost energy and rebuild that strong and vibrant mind, body and soul. We will discuss the physiology of detoxification and proper liver and digestive support. You will be presented with a step by step dietary plan, a quick, fun and simple movement sequence to get the blood flowing and you will go home with 3-5 days worth of a yummy detox tea! Sweet Hollow Herbs 50 Main St. Johnson – please pre-register 802.635.2355 In late April, I will be teaching a series of classes at Sweet Hollow Herbs. The series will cover a multitude of herbs from A-Z (focusing on those that grow in this area or can be grown in this area) and will inlcude such information as parts used, actions, traditional uses, modern uses, how to grow and how to harvest and prepare. this class will be of benefit to beginner and advanced herb students alike! More info to come! March 21st: TEA TASTING! At Healthy Living Market in Burlington, VT Healthy Living is a large health food store that is greatly supportive of local goods. I will be doing a tea tasting there on the 20th from 1-3 pm. Healthy Living Market sells my teas in bulk, which is a great, cost effective way to stock up! Check out there website at: http://www.healthylivingmarket.com/ On March 27th...Roots Wise will be featured at the Vermont Healers Expo! "Join us for our Spring Expo in Montpelier on March 27th from 9 am to 4:30 pm. This event is free to the public and will include: keynote speaker Gwen Hallsmith, workshops, demos, vendors, and more!" This event is put on by the Vermont Healers Organization and is a great chance to meet health care practitioners of all sorts and it's FREE and will be chock full of great information and education! Check out there website at: http://www.vermonthealers.org/ Soooo...lots happening, come on out and play. The time is now for health... to create a healthy lifestyle, to live that healthy lifestyle and pass it on...to have fun and live passionately in the meantime!!

Herbal Wellness and Nutrition Consultations

2009-12-17T14:53:00.015-05:00

I have a commitment to health, to fostering that in myself as well as doing what I can with the "tools" I have to foster that in others. I am passionate about health and wellness in the many ways it presents itself and in the many ways we can manifest that for a well rounded self, society, family, and community. This is where the change happens, the personal and community revolution can begin! As an herbalist I attempt to give people an alternative to choices about health, the knowledge to put their health back into their own hands with the help of herbs and nutrition, and the guidance as a practicing clinical herbalist to do so. Nutriton and what we physically put into our mouths is one of the most crucial elements in the health of our body. So much of the 'fuel' we put into our bodies comes directly from the foods we eat, from the nutrients we ingest. So if you want to get the most out of your body for your every day, if you want to feel ALIVE, if you want to keep rockin' in everything you do...then you must look more closely at food as your fuel! As part of the Wellness Consultations, Roots Wise offers nutrition counseling to get REAL food back into your life and your lifestyle. The nutrition consultations take a look at how food fits into your life, what foods fit into your life, how your food choices affect your overall health or any specific health issues you may have and how you can incorporate healthy choices into each meal to get the most out of life! The main goals of the consults are to facilitate lifestyle awareness, explore alternative and practical options to promote healthy lifestyle decision making and to pass on the tools to take appropriate action. Food is also your fuel for action, adventure and FUN! Movement and physical activity is the other crucial component to health. Roots Wise has teamed up with Mocean365, an action and adventure based movement powerhouse, who offers "Personal and Group Training to get you prepared for ripping in the outdoors no matter if you are hucking cliffs or chasing the kids. Led by a trainer who lives and breathes Action each and everyday possible. The workouts are done outside whenever possible and are designed to be effective, complete and though challenging; are very FUN! It is possible to take a creative, systematic and progressive approach to your physical conditioning." Check out their website at www.mocean365.com. Together Roots Wise and Mocean365 will inspire, educate and get people moving and feeling better than ever by offering dynamic workshops centered around physical health through movement and nutrition. Keep an eye out for updates on the when and where of these workshops. In the meantime to set up an Herbal and Nutrition Wellness Consultation, contact me at 603-674-7249 or via email at: megewroot@yahoo.com. Also be sure to keep posted on Mocean365's incredible movement/fitness classes and adventure opportunities at their website listed above. It's time to rock the life you dream about! Photo credits to Jean Jennings (first 2 pics) and Mocean365 (last 2 pics)

Tea Tasting!

2009-12-03T00:48:00.003-05:00

Hey everyone! Come on down to the Blue Moon this Saturday, the 5th, from 2-4pm for a Roots Wise Tea Tasting!! Sip on various samples of my herbal tea blends, talk tea with me, learn about the many ways loose leaf tea can be brewed and have fun with me!! For anyone around Vermont next weekend, I will be doing tea tastings on Saturday the 12th at LACE (Local Community Agricultural Exchange) in Barre, VT from 10-1pm then from 2-4pm at Buffalo Mountain Coop in Hardwick, VT.

In fundere...

2009-11-17T20:46:00.007-05:00

The word infusion comes from the latin "in fundere" meanning "to pour in". Pour in the water, seep the tea and strain. Simple, effective, enjoyable. Last weekend I had the opportunity to sample out my herbal tea blends at the local market. We talked tea, drank tea and appreciated tea. This was a great chance to get with the employees and locals and hash over what makes an herbal tea, why herbal teas, why loose leaf tea vs tea bags and how they can be easy to enjoy. I feel as though, all too often, loose leaf tea blends are looked at as too time consuming, messy or inconvenient and this was a chance for me to demonstrate that that certainly doesn't have to be the case and often is not. There are so many infusion methods/materials out there these days that support the process of simple, effective, and enjoyable. We also discussed the benefits of loose leaf tea over tea bags, which are plenty, and how medicinal herbal teas are best served as loose leaf infusions to maintain integrity of the plant material and provide you with optimal nutrients and medicine. I was totally stoked to see the interest, the "oh yeahs!", and frankly the conversion!!! Once provided with more information, people can then go and make better informed choices for their health and the health of those that surround them...if you are curious though skeptical...ask! You will not merely being drinking a cup of tea but rather preparing and administrating an easily assimilated medicine, food, and supplier of water! I will doing a tea tasting at the Blue Moon Market in Exeter, NH on Dec 5th (I think it will be around 2-4pm, but will keep you posted), so if you want to come sample, hash over, or do whatever else you can think of regarding tea...come on by! Special props to Skye Nacel for the kick ass photo work!

It's been awhile!!

2009-11-03T22:27:00.006-05:00

Hey everyone.... I am feeling back on track with Roots Wise these days as the transition to Vermont is no longer really in transition anymore! So I figured it's about time to share some thoughts and an update or two...First off winter is imminent and that means FIRE CIDER! If you aren't familiar check out the post on my blog a few posts or two back and get the low down so you can be fiery warm and healthy throughout the winter months...esp with the threat of the flu being forced down our throats. Personally I am not one to use the term the "cold and flu season" so readily anymore b/c what it really is about is keeping healthy throughout the year and winter just means you have to get outside more and breathe in some fresh air! There are so many ways to do this and to be comfortable doing so...grab the boots/snowshoes/x-country skies, whatever, and tromp around any which way you find enjoyable! With fire cider on board and your blood moving from MOVING, you'll be warm in no time. Then!....come on back inside and enjoy a warm cup of tea! Now that I'm nestled in Vermont, I have been working on getting Roots Wise Herbals' teas back out there in the stores. Being in Vermont I've realized that medicinal herbal teas blended by an herbalist are not that hard to come by...which is great on many levels but also has made me reflect upon what is it about my tea blends that are so special, why do I stand behind them and why should you??!! "From early on in herbal tradition, the infusion and the decoction have been the predominant form of extraction of medicinal plants and their properties." (James Green). My passion for herbs and teas stems from my growing of herbs...getting to know the herb through it's life cycle, from seed to seedling and from whole plant to infused herb. You learn about exceptional quality vs good quality herbs and about the true taste a plant should leave on your tongue. I have chosen the blends very thoughtfully, taking into consideration their "constitutional" qualities and how all the herbs in a particular blend will work synergistically. They are not blended with "filler" herbs just for flavor but rather with medicinal herbs for their therapeutic properties and they are loose leaf to ensure maximum extraction of those therapeutic properties. Whether you just want some tea to wind down or are looking for some deep immune support...Roots Wise Teas offer a variety. I also love putting together custom blends so feel free to hit me up with whatever ails you! Get to know your local herbalist and where your herbs come from!! This Saturday I am doing a tea tasting at the Green Top Market in Morrisville, VT...a great local market, chock full of goods (most of which are local), and good people! If you just happen to be in the area...swing on in!

Celebrate the Earth that supports us!

2009-04-22T11:55:00.024-04:00

Happy Earth Day everyone, today and everyday! It's inspiring to see so many movements towards, in supportive of and in praise of this incredible place we call Earth. While these movements, old and new, blossom and grow deeper, there still are many "movements" out there that are acting in direct opposition to the support of that which sustains them. Check out some of the great movements and organizations that are taking the time, energy, patience, dedication and respect that it takes to support that which supports them and spreading the good word along the way! www.seacoastgrowers.org www.mocean365.com www.seacoasteatlocal.org www.surfrider.org Supporting local is one great way that individuals can both support the local economy while reducing your carbon footprint, start simple or go all out , whatever works for you in your life...it's about the consciousness. Check out what Seacoast Local is doing to educate individuals about what easy steps they can make in their lives: www.seacoastlocal.org. Another great site is www.cuesa.org, the Center for Urban Education Sustainable Agriculture. An organization based out of San Francisco but with applicable info to all running rampant on their site. Roots Wise is about a way of life. Incorporated into this life, very integrally, is health to maintain this way of life. For me herbal medicine is a strong foundation for my health and thus the health of this planet. Herbs are medicines of the earth, the old ways of healing that have sustained cultures of the healthiest and strongest peoples in history. Medicinal plants can be found in every region of the world and the use of plants for healing has been prevalent in all cultures throughout history and continues to play an important role in medicine today. Ponder how your choices for health and healing effect this earth, this great planet that needs our support. A quote from the late, great herbalist Michael Moore: "In this country, the herb business mostly revolves around recently marketed substances, with new research and it comes to us from them. Whereas, we're trying to establish, as much as possible (in this lower level, if you will) the fact that we need to create a practice and a model that is impervious to faddism. We're trying to practice in a way that derives from practice rather than marketing. Not from above to below but from below around. Bioregionalism uber allies. Keep it local. No centralization because centralization kills everything. The largest axe that I grind in my work is to make herb users aware that herbs don't mysteriously materialize into capsules. It is so important to view botanical medicine as they do their produce and dairy products, the closer to the source, the better the quality." Get to know your local herbalist too!

Winter Farmer's Market Feb 7th!

2009-02-05T04:19:00.005-05:00

Early February may not exactly be the time that you would think to find a farmer's market....but February still holds the promise of stored goods...onions and garlic, winter crops...turnips, greens, potatoes and carrots, as well as incredible meats, poultry and pork, milk, yougurt and cheeses, wine, fresh bread, shrimp and lobster, maple syrup and tea! All local, all from your community! Check out seacoasteatlocal.rg for more details! "Health is more than simply the absence of illness. It is the active state of physical, emotional, mental and social well being" (as defined by the World Health Organization). I stand behind this defination with the belief that for a life of health, attention must also be given to our external relationships; including our community, and how we interact with our families, communities and environment. Go out and support what is around you, get involved, share and enjoy what is right in front of you!

Herb of the Month...Sambucus spp... Elder!

2008-11-19T09:46:00.015-05:00

So, for the first herb in the series I have decided to highlight Elder. Tis the season...Every year I make at least a gallon of elderberry syrup to see myself, my friends and my clients through the cold and flu season, where I feel elder can be of the most benefit. It is also the time of year that the smell of elder flower tea can be sniffed down the road...emanating from these parts! As the months carry on, with each herb, I will break them down into a modified classic "Materia Medica", that will include: Botanical Name, Family Name, Common Name, Parts Used, Physiological Actions, Specific Indications, Contraindications and Drug Interactions and Preparation and Dosage. All of the following info stems from either my experience with the plant or trusted herbalists/teachers' experience with the specific plant. And then of course I will rant a bit!! ELDER Botanical Name: Sambucus nigra, Sambucus canadensis Family Name: Caprifoliaceae Common Names: Elder, Elderberry, Black Elder, American elder, Flor Sauco Parts Used: flowers, berries (the leaves, bark, and root have a history of being used though can be toxic if not dosed properly and carry along side effects, so i will stick with what i know and use...the flowers and berries) Physiological Actions: Flower: diaphoretic (promotes perspiration), anticatarrhal (help the body remove excess mucus, either in the sinus area or other parts of the body), antispasmodic, alterative, mild nervine relaxant, diuretic, gentle stimulant. Berries: diaphoretic, diuretic, laxative, antirheumatic. Specific Indications: The elder tree encompasses many uses from berry to root...it was often considered a "medicine chest of the country people". As I mentioned earlier I will focus on the flowers and berries, my familiarity. The flowers, delicate beings, are extremely useful for many things from flower water for the complexion or as tea to drive out most any fever and clear the nasal and respiratory passageways of mucus build up. (Yummy!) Starting simple... Elder flower water can be made by filling a quart mason jar (or smaller) with fresh flowers, covering with near boiling water then cool slightly. When cooled slightly, add about 1-2 oz's of clear alcohol (vodka works well). Cover with a cloth and allow to cool completely and infuse for at least 4-6 hours, then strain, pour into your bottle of choice and voila...one of nature's best complexion remedies for anything from breakouts to sunburns or simply to keep the skin healthy and glowing! Don't get caught up in the millions of products laden with crap, "natural" or not, and just make some elder flower water to splash on daily! Elder flower tea has a multitude of uses, it should essentially be a household staple for anyone interested in incorporating herbs into their life and health. Elder flowers (dried) are very useful as a decongestant, with a long history, for reducing and removing phlegm from the nasal and respiratory passages and helps promote expectoration from the respiratory tract. So... good for hay fever, sinusitis, and the "wet" cold or flu. I have found it to be very relieving for those who suffer from plugged ears/deafness from this "stuffiness". Elder flower is also ideal for the common cold and for influenza, or the flu. For colds and flu's, the hot tea of the dried flower is the preferred preparation. Elder makes an excellent remedy for these "cold/damp" climates and conditions. Best taken during the first signs of achiness, sore throat, chills and fever...elder will help shorten the duration and intensity of colds and flu's. Elder flower also has excellent diaphoretic properties. For fevers, I have not seen any herb work as well as elder will, whatever the cause of the fever. In these instances, drink a cup or two of the hot tea just before going to bed, or while in bed...and elder will stimulate the circulation and promote free perspiration while cleansing the system of infection, by eliminating heat and toxins through the pores of the skin. I often suggest folks take a shower upon waking to cleanse these toxins from the surface of their skin. Elder combined with peppermint (and yarrow flower if available) is a great tasting, relaxing tea blend for fevers and the initial stages of influenza. Elder flowers also stimulate the action of the kidneys, our body's natural filter system, and help to remove edema especially when focused in the legs and ankles. Through the action of relieving fluid retention in the body, the flowers are also useful in reducing inflammation associated with arthritis, gout and rheumatism. (Use caution in large and excessive quanities...b/c of the diuretic effect, hypokalemia may result) Cold elder flower tea is extremely useful as an eyewash to relieve inflammation and irritation associated with conjunctivitis and sore eyes. I have used the cool tea as an eyewash after long motorcycle rides when your eyes are tired, red, sore and dry. I would also imagine it to be useful for snowboarders, surfers and the like after a long day out in the elements. Berries: The berries have similar actions as the flowers , though seem to possess a stronger quality as an antiviral. They act as an excellent general antiviral, possessing the ability to enhance cytokine production (cytokines are small proteins which mediate and regulate immunity and inflammation and are produced in response to an immune stimulus...such as an invading virus). Multiple studies suggest they may inactivate flu viruses by blocking them from replicating and by strengthening cell membranes so as prevent virus penetration of the cell. Not only are they useful as a tea, a syrup or an extract for colds and flu's but I have also seen them slow down herpes cycles and flare ups and spread apart acute episodes. Also of note, the berries are rich in organic iron and make an excellent tonic (great combined with blackberries for this purpose) to build up the blood and combat anemia. I like to add it to mineral rich teas or tea blends for osteoporosis. Elder Berry Syrup...an excellent and tasty tonic for the cold and flu season or to take when you've picked up a bug that's been going around. If buying a syrup or liquid preparation, consider the sweetener used and try to avoid sugar or sorbitol sweeteners. Making your own is easy!... Contact me for my favorite recipe! Then of course their is elder berry wine, jam... Contraindications/Side Effects: No drug interactions have been noted. As mentioned above, use caution in large quantities b/c of the potential for hypokalemia (decreased potassium levels in the blood) due to the diuretic action of the plant. Use caution with children with a history of high fevers and convulsions as elder may raise the body temperature to promote perspiration. Consult your local herbalist if you are pregnant or breast feeding. And I have to say...to cover my ass... *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and therefore are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease*

Reflections

2008-11-06T14:13:00.025-05:00

Adjusting back to life in the states, grounding myself after an incredible trip with my twin sister to italy. Humbleness, graciousness and acceptance were the inital themes at the start of the journey as I attempted to manuveur my way in a foreign land. I thoroughly enjoy being thrown back on myself only to have to muster up what strength you know you possess and what strength you don't know you possess to make your way. I rented an old vintage bike to cruise the streets with...for the first 45 min or so the pedaling was adrenaline charged as I wide eyed my way through the streets. Then the pedaling settled as I settled. I found a place to crash for the night and went on the hunt for my sister who was attending the Slow Food International Conference - Terre Madre - in Turino. I made my way through the thousands of people from all over the world, speaking so many differnet languages, all smiling and all there to spread and share their declarations of agriculture as activism. People and music from Italy, Chile, Peru, Zimbabwe, everywhere...amazing and inspiring! Throughout the trip we traveled to the north, where in a little town called Oulz I played soccer with some great Italian kids. Not one of us able to speak the others language so with each great shot or goal scored, their were exaggerated falls to the ground in a show of triumph, if you try there are plenty of ways to communicate!! South to Firenze, or Florence, quite the city! Where we did most of our "sightseeing" at night with a bottle of wine in hand as we strolled through the streets, not having to share Neptune or Pan with others. The only true daytime art seeking we did was after MY David, well I guess he's Michelangelo's. I practically fell in love with Michelangelo about 7 years ago when I began carving wood. Though I only mastered spoons and ladels, I gained an incredible appreciation for the grains in wood and working WITH them to create your vision. So as I read and learned about this master of marble, of course I was impressed! Seeing David in Firenze, up close and personal shut me up quick! Michelangelo's David is essentially the essence of man to me...!! He is not portrayed in his typical "triumphantly victorious over death" pose, but rather in a triumphantly meditative pose. His pose encompasses a man who is strong, independent and free, graceful, a man willing to stand up for his rights and his passions, revered for his integrity and his intellect and with no need to be boastful along the way....DAMN Italy really does turn all into a sensual experience!! We then spent time at a goat farmer's place in Greve In Chianti, a great man and his family, living the good life and working damn hard for it! This region also just so happened to be the home of Chianti, when in Italy... Then out to the coast... where we experienced a true coastal fishing/port town, where we were truely the only (least it felt that way) English speakers there and where we really got the feel for the way the locals live, eat and play! Then next coastal town we traveled to and the sun came out...swimming in the Mediterranean sea, yoga on the beach at dawn...AHHHH! Back in the states, inspired and ready to continue on my path...keep in touch with the blog for updates, more photos will be posted on Picasa Gallery and soon we'll begin the first herb in the herb of the month series!!

Italia!!

2008-10-28T04:36:00.000-04:00

Buongiorno! Wow...I'm in Italy! So, I have been here for quattro going on cinque days and so many stories to tell!! Already! From learning the bus system inside and out in turino, (out of neccessaity as a solo traveler) to cruising the streets on a sweet old school bicycle. Scaling a stone monastary wall at 1 in the am and landing in their garden only to finally find the one unlocked door of where i was staying, which happened to be the arts and crafts room of the monastary, led to a night of laughter! That night an old jacket found and a piece of cardboard served as the sleeping pad while a roll of toilet paper served as a pillow!! this all after hanging out at the corner pub, dancing to italian style reggae, in a little town @ 20km from the french border in the mist of the italian/french alps!! I have so much to write about, though only 2 more minutes on this computer, so i will continue to write my thoughts and reflections on the scraps of paper i come across and share with you as i can!!

diggin' roots

2008-10-16T20:34:00.000-04:00

so...this past week has been filled with diggin in the dirt. codonopsis, echinacea, elecampagne, marshmallow, and pleurisy roots all rich with medicine and all yielding to my supple, respectful hands. roots teach us patience, instinct, humility, strength and well, i could go on...they also teach ya how good it is to get your hands really dirty! your fingernails filled with what feels like inches of dirt, soil, sod, you name it. your digging so deep that your fingers are numb from motion, from action. the smell in the air is pungent...the codonopsis is sweetness and the pleurisy diffuse while echinacea tingles through the air. this is medicine to me. a woman by the name of Laurel Luddite, also a student of the amazing herbalist Michael Moore, wrote an essay called "This is Anarcho Herbalism". check it out! http://swsbm.com/homepage/anarcho-herbalism.html an excellent summation, written over 5 years ago, never not relevant.

let's get it started!

2008-10-10T15:01:00.000-04:00

living roots wise is about living life passionately, consciously and with spirit and integrity. the idea stemmed from a desire to kick myself in the butt to do all of those things! i currently own and solely operate an herbal business called Roots Wise Herbals, of which i have dedicated about 10 years to. over the years the biz has taken various shapes and utilized various outlets to serve it's purpose and keep it alive. i have to say that in the last 2 years in particular, i've been in a rut with it regarding what i really want to see stem from it. Roots Wise Herbals has been an incredibly creative outlet for me over the years, keeping me busy and continuously scheming up new avenues with which to walk it down. it has been a tool that has led me to meet some incredible people and communities. it has opened me up to being more comfortable socially, spiritually and physically. and it's given me something to sink into over the years! i am a creature of thriving on keeping busy, hands always in one project or another. body and mind enthused by new challenges and new people. hence the blog...an outlet for me to share the changing shape of Roots Wise, the thoughts that go along with that metamorphosis, and for the people who have supported me and my business over the years...to keep up to date where they can continue to buy tea, extracts, oils or whatever. living roots wise, over time, will consist of a forum for info about health, nutrition, herbs and what's going on around you...how you can connect with people and events that are inspiring, passionate and digging into their roots! oh and travel! (hoping to use this forum as an outlet to have to go a travelin'). a huge kick for this blog has been all the incredible people i know doing incredible things! i hope to help spread their word and happenings and inspire people to live each day as fully as they can in that moment, by passing on what does it for me!