Category Archives: Health

When Stress Overwhelms Your Mind

When Stress Overwhelms Your Mind Feb2020

When Stress Overwhelms Your mind

Stepping out of one’s comfort zone can cause
a staggering effect on our thought process.

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The topic of overwhelming stress has been cropping up in my personal and business feeds quite a lot lately.I had been reflecting on what life was like when I was single in the 90s. I used to travel a lot solo or with work, to various locations around the globe, with confidence and a little bit of angst about the unknown.I would research the places I was about to discover, collating as much information about what I wanted to see and do.

In 1999, whilst based for work in Houston Texas for 3 months, I used my 12 weekends to explore surrounding areas, both near and far, making the most of my limited stay in the US.Grabbing a small bag, I’d drive to various places in Texas, or catch a flight to New Orleans for my 30th, Miami or head to the Mexican border .I had very little fear and almost everything was so much fun!

From 2000 to the beginning of 2003, I was based in the UK. I spent many weekends exploring not only the UK but headed off with my ‘Lonely Planet Europe Book’ to discover different cities on the mainland.Enjoying the history and so much of what Australia didn’t have, I spent time locating long-lost family members who I reconnected with their cousins back in Melbourne! I was often asked, ‘What’s in that city you’re going to visit?’… My reply was, ‘Tell you on Monday when I get back!’ These were the days of city maps, internet cafes and 36mm film in your camera!

It might sound really dumb, but lately, this aspect of planning and booking has become something my husband has done since we got married in 2004. I can’t believe how ‘lost’ I feel, trying to find the right deal, or plan ahead. Whilst I have loads of ideas, I am often overwhelmed by doing it all myself for the family.

As mentioned in the newsletter, I recently went to secretly visit my Uncle for his 90th birthday in Sicily. I was about to book the trip when my husband found a better deal than I would have otherwise missed. But once it was reserved, I suddenly realised that there was no public transport on a Sunday morning, and the panic set in. As stupid as it sounds, the logistics became my stress – and it consumed my mind, thoughts and sleep.
Totally crazy, right?

The reality is that often something that seems so silly or insignificant to others is what throws you off your own game.It makes you feel weak, incapable, unsure and questioning your inner strength. Should I accept th e role as ‘guest speaker’?What would people think of me at an Exhibition or event that I’ve been asked to attend? How do we overcome these feelings, step out of our comfort zone into our fears and take the ultimate plunge?

Whilst I was having my moment about the trip, I reached out to my Sicilian friend and another connected with Sicily, asking for their advice and help. I felt bad imposing myself on my relatives to take me on the 2+ hour journey back to Palermo airport. I considered driving a car, but again my fear of being alone and behind the wheel in Italy was so consuming that my brain went into overdrive: ‘What if they have snow, what if there’s no snow-tyres on the car, what if I get lost, what if …?’

My husband found a ‘Get Transfer Service’ and booked the trip back on a Sunday morning, and suddenly my fears of being lost, stranded and driving alone all vanished.

Image: Rocks of Love, Breathe Easy & Blissful Minds Products, Lesley Calvo, Pots of Magic.

“Sometimes we just have to be brave enough to ask for help and admit that we are scared in order to be reassured, encouraged or find an alternative solution”

I recently spoke to a dear friend of mine who shared this story with me. Lesley was invited to guest speak in the USA to over 400 women.She explained how anxious she became, to the point of not wanting to step onto the plane in the first place.She just wanted to turn around and go back home, but instead, she proceeded.At her UK stopover, the fear came back, and Lesley tried to convince herself that remaining was better than completing the flight to LA, as this apprehension increased.She went and succeeded in delivering her speech to the 400+ women!! This feeling of fear can be also used as a sign that you are ready to move, and as a sign to take action. It becomes your body’s way of telling you to push outside your comfort zone and expand your limit line.

Quoting from Lesley’s Instagram page:
‘When you feel the chaos and overwhelm, know that your next move is still a choice you get to make. The darkness inside is not to be avoided or hated. That within it there is a gift.It is your soul calling you to courage. Through it there is a strength in you that you haven’t even met yet. A desire for greatness that is pulling you through.Breathe. You Will Make it!’

What powerful encouragement – we need to be in tune and listen to our own inner voice and gut instinct. It is usually right and steers us where we should be heading.

“Trust Yourself, You Know More than You Think You Do” – Lesley Calvo

Lesley mentioned that the concept of stepping out of our comfort zones can make us feel uncomfortable, self-doubt and scared. It can cause hidden feelings from our past to resurface. This overwhelming nervousness can cripple us into non-action, provoking and deceiving us into thinking that ‘we’re ok to stay put or make no alterations to what is necessary for change’.

If we take our health as an example: When we know we are not well, our body will constantly tell us we have pain or discomfort. Instead, we pretend, make excuses, ignore the warning signs that stop us from changing old habits which could eventually have longer-term and detrimental effects. Imagine if we all made small changes that could actually improve and extend our Healthy Life Expectancy? Here are some words of advice:
1. Be honest with yourself and admit you are unable to do certain things on your own;
2. Seek out those who can genuinely help you reach your goals, even if it’s one small step at a time;
3. Be kind enough to give yourself the time and space to reach what you’re capable of doing; and
4. Notice how much stronger, braver and capable you are of becoming.

What other techniques can we apply to help us overcome the stress that consumes our mind? There are a few things we can do to assist the improvement of our overall well-being:
1. Take on a relaxing form of exercise, like Yoga or Pilates. This can help release endorphins in the brain which not only lift our mood but act as natural pain-killers.
2. If you’re able to take on more, do dance-related exercise which will increase your heart rate and improve your overall fitness;
3. Some find meditation and prayer their personal choice for a peaceful mind, as well as dealing with anxiety and stress;
4. For those willing to try Acupuncture, this technique can free blockages to the energy flow in your body;
5. Having regular massage can assist with releasing knots and built-up tension, particularly the neck, shoulders and lower back;
6. Ensure your diet is full of the necessary nutrients, which will help your brain deal with stress, and assist your body’s total functionality;
7. Seek techniques like Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) to help deal with stress and depression that can have a negative effect on your body;
8. Write your thoughts and feelings in a diary to keep track of what is causing stress;
9. Connect with people, friends, nature, taking time out to be around and with those that make you happy;
10. Use your blends and essential oils to improve your overall well-being, reduce the feeling of anxiety and stress on the body.
11. Stress can affect our whole body, from digestion, skin and hair loss too.

Writing lists is something I have been doing for a long time, and I found that it frees my mind from stressing or over-thinking particularly whilst I sleep. Eating healthier and slower, being more conscious of what is consumed can also prevent your body from overworking and becoming sluggish. The food awareness tends to go out the window whilst we’re socialising, travelling and in company with others, enjoying what life and adventures have to offer, though the reconnecting element can be a wonderful key element to overcoming stress.

Pampering yourself with deep tissue massage can release built-up tension and relieve knotted areas. Speaking to friends who know you, offering words of encouragement and support during your time of anxiousness can be a huge step towards a peaceful mind.

Be aware that stress affects our bodies. Our hormones can become imbalanced as the blood flow to our skin, hair, teeth and throughout the body is hindered. A common reaction to stress is Eczema, Acne, Hives, Psoriasis, Rosacea, gum disease and hair loss. Trying to get our body back in control will help overcome this. Often, simply controlling the foods we eat can have a tremendous result for our body’s recovery process.

And for those that enjoy the natural things in life, there are the Essential oil blends I make, that can clear a congested nose and aid with breathing to allow a decent night’s rest. For the children, there’s the Kids Breathe Easy Concentrate, whilst for grown-ups, Adults Breathe Easy Concentrate. For headache sufferers, there’s the Blissful Minds concentrated serum, together with the Anxiety Pick Me Up inhalers. All of these products are made using 100% natural ingredients, containing no hidden nasties or chemicals in the blends.

This year I have decided to do some things differently. I will update you in the coming months, but for now, I’m writing my lists, seeking the help of those who know better than me, asking for advice, and taking one day at a time. I hope that 2020 becomes a different kind of year and that you all get to be part of it, right here! It’s time for me to overcome those fears and just go with it. Watch this space and keep you posted.

Should you need help with finding your feet, don’t ever hesitate to book the Consultation session to fast track your steps to wellness.

Should you wish to contact Lesley Calvo, please message me  support@essentiallylili.com

Images: Healthy Living Chart & Concentrated Serums Blissful Minds & Congestion for Adults/Kids

Health Flowchart

BLOG PARTICIPATION:

  • What part of this blog resonates with you?
  • Has your stress overwhelmed you so much that you stopped following an activity or event through?
  • What technique do you find is the best stress reliever for you and your family?

“Why I make Essentially Lili all-natural Products.”

About Lili & Essentially Lili
My 40 years of personal experience is the foundation of Why and What I do at Essentially Lili.
My aim is to help you get the results you want as I have already been on that hard journey to overcome the autoimmune disorder.If you wish to know more about Clinical Nutrition and how to kick start your health, book a Private Confidential Paid Consultation.
Please send an email to <a” href=”mailto:info@essentiallylili.com”>info@essentiallylili.com should you need further assistance.

My Health Studies include from 2016-2019 Diplomas in Aromatherapy, Holistic Skincare Products, Clinical Nutrition, Stress Management, Reflexology, Holistic Pain Management, Member of International College of Holistic Medicine.Currently studying Clinical Nutrition for Over 50s.

At Essentially Lili, the Products made are all using 100% Natural <a” href=”https://essentiallylili.com/ingredients/”>Ingredients. See the wide variety of Help Skin Assistance available on the webpage.

Should you need help in deciding, start by reading the Reviews & Testimonials about other Customers who have dared to try them out. We have had some amazing Before & After results with their using the All-Natural Skincare products. Please don’t forget to write your comments and reviews on our pages to share the love with others.

See the Blog Library for previous writings about how to deal with Anguish of Acne/Rosacea, How to deal with Cystic Acne and Understanding Your Body. Your feedback allows us to improve the content and information provided and products made. We look forward to hearing from you, With Much Love Essentially Lili.

What Your Face Reveals About You

Acne Face Map Dec19

What Your Face
Reveals about you

As the skin maps out your body,
telling amazing truths.

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History & Genesis of these techniques:

History & Genesis of Face Mapping techniques, as used by the ancient Chinese & Ayurvedic medicine helps determine one’s health based on acne patterns.

This practise is over 3,000 years old and is otherwise known as ‘face reading or mien shiang’ which is based on the flow of energy along specific meridians throughout the body.Disturbances to this flow of energy affects the ‘Qi’, which then manifests on the face with breakouts, redness, spots, or other issues.

Face Mapping technique observes the person’s complexion, whether there is colour, dullness, breakouts, as well as checking the expression and the health of their tongue.With Ayurvedic methods focuses on the person’s body type (Dosha) whilst Chinese medicine involves manipulating the body’s meridians.When the main organs are not functioning properly, it can affect the overall health of the body.For example, increased redness, inflammation and breakouts could be the result of poor liver health and a build-up of toxins in the liver.Other digestive organs that could cause problems include the spleen, intestines, kidneys and stomach.Skin health is also subjected to diet, lack of sleep, use of medications, emotional anguish combined with high stress levels.

This process is similar to Reflexology.In the 1930’s, Eunice Ingham, a physiotherapist for Dr. Joseph Shelby Riley, became an advocate for Zone Therapy which she studied and used on her patients.She found that the feet responded well to the therapy due to their extreme sensitivity.Applying pressure to varying trigger points which corresponded to an area to the feet, her patients were able to feel less pain.This Body Mapping onto the feet became the Genesis of Reflexology.

In the early 20th Century, publishing about Zone Therapy was done by Dr. William Fitzgerald, who showed how applying pressure to certain parts corresponded to other parts of the body.Dr. Edwin Bowers, his colleague, validated this theory using dramatic demonstrations. Whilst administering pressure to the area in the hands, a sticking pin was entered onto the face, corresponding to the area being treated, without causing pain.This ‘Acupuncture’ process is closely linked to Reflexology and Face Mapping, where it assists relieving the flow of energy throughout the body.Executing pressure to the trigger points related to the various organs in the body allow for the meridians to be released.

What’s fabulous about Reflexology is an alternative therapy is that it can bring relief to so many areas, when performed correctly.
• It can help unblock tensions built up in the muscles and organs, releasing deposits, knots and other hindrances;
• It can assist the whole body’s natural flow and progression, from digestion to increased blood flow, allowing for nutrients to be circulated and carried throughout the system; and
• It can work as a natural pain killer by releasing endorphins.

Images: Face Mapping used by Traditional Chinese Medicine & Reflexology Foot Map.

Chinese Face Mapping Dec19
Reflexology Foot Map Dec19

Modern Uses of Face Mapping Techniques:

Today it is generally used for helping with problems like Acne, because the flare ups tend to happen in the same locations like the chin and forehead. It can also be used to treat puffiness, lines, wrinkles, redness and rashes caused by food allergies. The face is zoned out, just like the feet in Reflexology, to help indicate what could be the underlying problems for the skin:
• A stressed or poor functioning liver or imbalanced kidneys, stomach, bladder or spleen can result in breakouts, lines or wrinkles between your eyes and eyebrows, or the nose area;
• Breakouts on the forehead could be related to how the small intestine and bladder functions, in conjunction with poor digestion, stress levels and lack of sleep;
• Acne around the mouth, jaw or on the chin could be related to the stomach, large intestine and colon, as well the reproductive system being imbalanced;
• The whole digestive system, spleen and kidneys not working efficiently, or building up toxins could result in acne appearing below the lips and on the lower chin;
• Gut related problems or inflammation of the small intestines could result in breakouts near the nostrils;
• Spots or pimples around the cheekbones could be the result of immune issues, allergies, respiratory concerns or smoking;
• These could also be due to hormonal issues, stress and the reactions to our immune system.

The condition of your face and skin can determine whether or not you’re consuming plenty of vegetables, are prone to high blood pressure, drink too much coffee, don’t sleep enough or lack the vitamins required for your body to function healthily. Treating the root causes can ultimately assist with achieving an acne free life, irrespective of your age.

Science, however believes that the ancient methods are not as useful or exact for everyone.Looking closely to the skin, asking about lifestyle and the environment you work and live in will determine a better understanding for resolving issues:
• Our lifestyles are more demanding and stressful, impacting our facial skin and its appearance;
• Changes in the ingredients and how our foods are made, together with high levels of processing;
• Our gut health could require re-balancing with probiotic bacteria to help eliminate the toxins clogged in the intestines;
• Imbalanced or increased production of androgenic hormones, like testosterone, can over create excess secretion of sebum, which can drastically affect how our body reacts;
• The accumulation of sebum and bacteria inside the pores can become infected or inflamed, causing clogged skin cells, pimples or cystic acne;
• Dead skin cells can also cause blockages, creating whiteheads, blackheads and varying kinds of acne;
• Poor hygiene, sweating or not cleaning excess oils gently can affect our skin;
• Immune or allergic reactions to modern skincare, makeup and hair products can create irritations to our skin;
• We tend to sleep less or have poor sleep habits;
• Family history and genetics can determine the time process for new skin development and likelihood of acne breakouts;
• For some, the environment they are exposed to can cause the pores to become blocked and prone to acne breakouts;
• Exposure to the sun can irritate the skin for some; and
• Other health issues like diabetes and poor circulation can also have adverse effects on the skin.

Some of the above mentioned factors will have nothing to do with the results of Face Mapping and the condition of one’s internal organs.It does give an overall guide for where to begin the process for well-being, a way to promote natural health products which may not necessarily address the actual cause for the acne breakouts.

Youth Face Balm, Evanesce Balm, Magic Serum, Cleansing, Nourishing Face Balm, Frankincense Face Serum, Vitamin Rich Products & Cool Eyes.

“Beauty is how you feel inside, and it reflects in your eyes”. Quote By Sophia Loren.

In all things, common sense should be applied first and foremost. Start with the basics:
• Cleanse your face with gentle products at night time, to remove environmental pollutants from your skin;
• Remember that these can cause a build-up of dirt, accumulation of sebum which could become infected;
• Protect your skin from the sun during the day with a decent sunblock;
• If you have any skin infections, treat these with products that will soothe and balance the skin;
• To prevent transferring bacteria to other parts of your face and body, try not to touch your face and skin throughout the day, unless your hands are clean;
• Look more closely at lifestyle and diet, making changes where necessary, especially if you notice reactions or allergies to foods, drinks and other commercial products;
• Eating a more balanced healthier diet should assist in achieving the results you want;
• However, if the symptoms carry on despite good hygiene and healthy eating, it would be worth seeking the assistance of a consultant specialising in Face Mapping.

In conclusion, whilst the concept of Face Mapping has been used for a long time by the Chinese and Ayurvedic practitioners, the results may not necessarily be as black and white as believed.
A combination of poor organ functionality with lifestyle stresses, environmental and diet related issues could also be the culprits to the lack of healthy glow of your skin.Be sure to look at your overall health in a holistic way. Try to deal with stressful situations and lifestyle concerns which will ultimately make you feel better in the longer term.Take care of your skin, consume the right kinds of foods and drink water to help flush the toxins from your digestive tract.

If you are seeking Product to help resolve Acne concerns:
• I would recommend cleansing your skin only at night time, to remove pollutants and environmental build-ups in your skin.This allows the pores to be cleared and impurities removed.New skin cells are generated whilst we sleep, so cleansing in the mornings will remove these, which we don’t want to do. Cypress Cleansing Balm which is made with Beeswax, Butters and Essential Oils or the Oil based Sunflower Cleanser.
• The Frankincense Face Serum is gorgeous on the skin, and has Ylang Ylang to help combat the occasional breakout;
• However, the Magic Serum helps treat more problematic Acne prone skin;
• For Acne/Rosacea prone skin, we have Vitamin Rich Mens Face Balm and Vitamin Rich Womens Face Balm if your skin needs more tender loving care due to irritation or damage;
• For treating Acne alone, Evanesce Balm;
• For Youths who only have Acne breakouts, Youth Face Balm;
• For hydration, there are a few varying products: For men over 30, there’s the Hydrating Face Balm;
• For women over 30, there’s Nourishing Face Balm; and
• For women over 50, Diamond Era Balm.

There will be something for everyone who wants to help deal with how their skin looks and feels.

BLOG PARTICIPATION:

  • What are your thoughts about Face Mapping?
  • Did you have a Reflexology session for specific problems, and what was the outcome?
  • If you had acne problems, what kind of products did you use to resolve it?

My Health Studies include from 2016-2019 Diplomas in Aromatherapy, Holistic Skincare Products, Clinical Nutrition, Stress Management, Reflexology, Holistic Pain Management. I’m a Member of International College of Holistic Medicine.I’m currently studying Clinical Nutrition for Over 50s.

My aim is to help you get the results you want as I have already been on that hard journey to overcome the autoimmune disorder. If you wish to know more about Clinical Nutrition and how to kick start your health, book a private Consultation. Please send an email to info@essentiallylili.com should you need further assistance.  At Essentially Lili, the products made are all using 100% Natural Ingredients.  See the wide variety of Products available on the webpage.

Should you need help in deciding, start by reading the Reviews & Testimonials about other Customers who have enjoyed using the products.  We have had some amazing Before & After results from Clients using the All-Natural Skincare products.  Please don’t forget to write your comments and reviews on our pages to share the love with others.

See the Blog Library for previous writings about Alopecia Areata, Face Mapping, Dry Skin in Winter, Raiding Your Fridge, Keratosis Pilaris Tips, Anguish of Acne/Rosacea, How to deal with Cystic Acne & Understanding Your Body. Your feedback allows us to improve the content and information provided and products made.

We look forward to hearing from you, With Love Essentially Lili x

Autoimmune Issues Dirty Foods

Carrot Seed

Autoimmune Issues
Dirty Foods

What to consume
to help these related issues

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In the last blog we shared about ‘Autoimmune issues’ as there’s been a lot of talk regarding what it means to you. Please note that you should get yourself diagnosed by a Doctor or Nutritional Expert as the scientific evidence is constantly evolving.

Start with getting additional help – if you need to get certain tests done, whether they are blood or excrement tests, have them done by the right specialists. This will allow the doctors and specialists to check for various imbalances. Whilst autoimmune issues can be quite disheartening and stressful, you can start by changing your diet and making notes about how you feel after eating certain foods. If you have any of these common symptoms, hopefully they are not that serious and will go away with time. However, if they are persistent, please get yourself checked out. You might think that leaky gut only affects the digestive system, but the truth is, it can affect the body is so many other ways.

The main organs, tissues that are affected by autoimmune issues are:

    • Skin – with symptoms like Rashes, red bumps on facial skin or red flaking skin. Other skin concerns are Acne, Rosacea, Eczema, Psoriasis, Dermatitis;
    • Digestive tract upsets – Stomach cramps, Gas or bloated stomach, Diarrhea or constipation, may indicate irritable bowel disease;
    • Brain – Anxiety, Stress, Headaches, Brain Fog, Fatigue or hyperactivity, feeling weird, tired or even exhausted;
    • Red blood & blood vessels;
    • The Glands – affecting organs like the Pancreas for Type 1 Diabetes; the Thyroid, where underactivity causes Hashimoto’s disease or overactivity causes Graves’ disease. These activities usually result in Weight loss or gains;
    • Connective Tissue – with conditions like Multiple Sclerosis and Lupus;
    • Muscles & Joints – with symptoms like Rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia symptoms, giving pain, weakness, stiffness or other discomfort;
    • Other symptoms include Attention Deficit problems, Asthma, Dry mouth, frequent colds, allergies, Feeling depressed.

So what’s eating dirty about? To support a healthy gut and encourage immune system response, we need to ensure our body has the right organisms. Our body needs a daily dose of elements, minerals, and nutrients to regenerate cells and function well. These include oxygen, iron, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus and more, in addition to the water we should consume.

Images Leaky Gut issues & the affects, Essentially Lili all-natural products for Psoriasis, Market selection at Barcelona Spain.

When we have foods that are rich in Soil Based Organisms (SBOs), these plants are grown in environments where the soil is rich and containing high active microorganisms. The organisms should protect the plants from becoming contaminated or undernourished.Have you ever seen giant healthy veggies grown in someone’s loving backyard or allotment?

Scientific literature often references soil-based organisms. Foods that are healthy, rich in nutrients, elements, amino acids, vitamins, and calcium can assist with how one deals and treats certain health conditions. Disclaimer:This is by no means an instruction for readers to stop seeking medical advice or to stop taking medication prescribed by doctors.

For example, when my Grandparents and parents were young and growing up in Italy, they hardly ever had any kind of skin conditions. Their base ingredients were grown in the garden without pesticides, the butchers and farmers were using real feed for their animals, and the foods were made at home with love.(This doesn’t mean they didn’t have other health issues growing up, though most of these have been treated with modern medicine.) Before refrigerators, foods were often buried in the ground or maintained in a dirt cellar. The microbes in the soil helped preserve the foods whilst the lower temperatures kept bacteria away.

We used to play in the dirt, in vegetable and flower gardens, touching feeling and enjoying the earth between our finger. Instead, we are more obsessed with over Sanitising and killing any kind of bacteria – Note, it is necessary after using bathrooms and before eating! The introduction of fast foods, processed ingredients, an abundance of sugars, salts, and E-numbers have seen a new generation of health concerns from weight gain, skin issues, and more.

If you were to do an experiment to see if there’s a difference in your health status, it would involve increasing the intake of foods that are high in soil-based organisms and maintaining a healthy balanced diet. For example, if you had conditions like allergies, irritable bowel syndrome, flatulence, indigestion, autoimmune & inflammatory diseases, fungal infections and nutrients deficiencies, see what happens if you changed your overall diet for a while.

Soil-based organisms will help nourish the cells in the colon and liver and allow for the creation of compounds like Vitamins B, K2, antioxidants and enzymes . They will also help balance the immune system, reducing inflammation as well as fight off harmful bacteria like Candida, fungi, and parasites which could block or damage the lining in the gut.

How to start eating dirty:
• Start by not sanitising your foods.
Wash your vegies that you buy fresh with running water, but don’t scrub them with brushes and produce washes. The carrots will contain beneficial microbes and some 500 milligrams of dirt, which is about the size of an average supplement capsule.
• Include Probiotic Foods to your diet like Kefir, Yoghurt, Sauerkraut (which is cabbage cut fine, salted, and allowed to ferment until sour). The pasteurizing process destroys microorganisms that are not desired by applying heat to control the rate at which fermentation takes place. This process is applied to drinks such as milk, wine, beer, cider as well as foods such as cheese and crab meat. Destroying the enzymes could be why many of us have developed an intolerance to lactose. Kefir could assist with improving digestion or malabsorption of lactose.

• Raw Honey & Bee Pollen consumption has helped many with seasonal allergies, hay fever and inflammation. A good friend of mine has been taking & administering to her family 2 teaspoons of honey every day to prevent allergies.The natural immunization of the microbes contained in the honey and pollen becomes part of your gut, nourishing any gut bugs as it allows you to adjust to the seasons and environment.I will have to start this with my husband!

• Incorporate and Live Life Outside – Swim in the ocean or lakes, play in the parks and gardens, get yourself grounded. Get a dog (if you are not scared of them like me!) take your shoes off and walk on the grass and feel the earth between your toes for a dose of ‘microbes’.Remember the film, ‘Pretty Woman’ when she says, “Let’s Cop a Squat and take a day off’ as she took his shoes off to touch the grass!

• Eat Dirt Apparently the best dirt-based supplement is ‘Shilajit (she-lay-jit) which comes from the bordering Indian & Tibet regions of the dense, nutrient and mineral-rich soils of the Himalayan mountains. This supplement contains over 85 minerals, humic and fulvic acid which help the body to carry minerals through the thick cell walls and assists the longevity of the cell’s life. It is often used by the agricultural industry as a soil supplement.

So whilst we try to eat a healthier balanced diet, including foods that have high active microorganisms will assist our bodies to repair internally.They will help regulate the immune system, reduce inflammation of the gut naturally as the walls are strengthened and protected.And as we start to enjoy life outside, back to our roots, consuming foods as they were intended to be eaten.Ideally, removing foods that can cause damage to the gut is necessary. Replace these with foods that help heal, repair, and rebalance with probiotics and supplements.I will write more about microbiome, foods that heal and probiotics in the coming blogs.

Begin a new page – seek alternative methods if you don’t want to take medications as there are plenty of new options.Whether these options are through the Nutritionist, Specialist, Acupressure, Reflexology, Herbal teas & medicines, Homeopathy pills as well as Conventional medication.Your goal should be to find a solution that gives you well-being to your Mind, Body & Spirit a Holistic balance of all these.

BLOG PARTICIPATION:

    • What do you do with the veggies that you buy?
    • Have you always had a balanced healthy diet?
    • What did your parents used to eat when they were growing up?

Feel free to comment and share your personal stories below.

About Lili & Essentially Lili

My Health Studies include from 2016-2019 Diplomas in Aromatherapy, Holistic Skincare Products, Clinical Nutrition, Stress Management, Reflexology, Holistic Pain Management. I’m a Member of International College of Holistic Medicine. I’m currently studying Clinical Nutrition for Over 50s.

My aim is to help you get the results you want as I have already been on that hard journey to overcome the autoimmune disorder. If you wish to know more about Clinical Nutrition and how to kick start your health, book a private Consultation. Please send an email to info@essentiallylili.com should you need further assistance.  At Essentially Lili, the products made are all using 100% Natural Ingredients.  See the wide variety of Products available on the webpage.

Shou ldyou need help in deciding, start by reading the Reviews & Testimonials about other Customers who have enjoyed using the products.  We have had some amazing Before & After results from Clients using the All-Natural Skincare products.  Please don’t forget to write your comments and reviews on our pages to share the love with others.

See the Blog Library for previous writings about Alopecia Areata, Face Mapping, Dry Skin in Winter, Raiding Your Fridge, Keratosis Pilaris Tips, Anguish of Acne/Rosacea, How to deal with Cystic Acne & Understanding Your Body. Your feedback allows us to improve the content and information provided and products made.

We look forward to hearing from you, With Love Essentially Lili x

Do you have Autoimmune Issues

Dr Axe Leaky Gut

Do You Have
Autoimmune Issues?

Or suffer with leaky gut syndrome?
What are the signs that you
could be developing these problems?

QR BLOGJAN19

Do You Have an ‘autoimmune problem’? There’s been a lot of talk lately regarding ‘autoimmune’ problems and what it’s all about. What does it mean to you?

Normally, the body should be able to fight against anything foreign that threatens the well-being or health of tissues and cells. This is regarded as the immune response which protects the body from harm. Autoimmune disease is when the body fails to differentiate between what is ok for the body and part of ‘self’ and what is not ok for the body and ‘non-self’.

The result of an autoimmune disease is that the body becomes in danger of being overcome by invaders, oxidants or diseases which it would otherwise fight against.  It can destroy body tissues and cells, affecting and changing the functionality of the organs. There is also a higher risk of getting bacterial infections when the autoimmune system is weak.

Did you know that 70% of your immune system is found in your ‘GALT’ – gut associated lymphoid tissues?

Your digestive system can become rather sluggish, clogged and unable to process what has been consumed without requiring additional assistance. What your body once considered ‘good foods’ is no longer recognised, where these become difficult to eliminate without other issues coming to the surface.

Autoimmune disease symptoms can often go undetected for a long time, where the conditions like Leaky Gut Syndrome develop without one realising anything is wrong.  (Note: Leaky Gut syndrome has been given the medical term – Intestinal Permeability”)

Diagnosing the conditions can also be just as frustrating.  Sometimes the process for receiving an official autoimmune diagnosis can take years of going to various doctors for different types of tests Often these tests will only touch the surface of what the culprit might be because the symptoms of these Autoimmune conditions can be so vague and contrasting.
What do you look for when trying to figure out if you’re suffering with Autoimmune disease symptoms?

Medical journals ‘British Medical Journal and International Journal of Gastroenterology’ ‘ have both suggested that problems with a Leaky Gut are causing a vast number of autoimmune diseases. These include conditions like ‘lupus, allergies, depression, eczema, psoriasis, rheumatoid arthritis amongst others. The rate of chronic health conditions rose in children by nearly 15% between 1994 and 2006 according to the Journal of American Medical Association where conditions like obesity, asthma, learning and behavioural problems had the largest growth during that time. Based on blood tests performed, it seems that youngsters are also five times more likely to have celiac disease symptoms as compared to their peers from the 1950s.

Normally, the gut would have lots of good bacteria like ‘Bacteroides fragilis’ which helps the immune system stay in balance like a referee would. Its function together with the ‘microbiome’is to keep the pro vs anti-inflammatory functions in order, restoring it when it goes off kilter. Testing and research have found the bacteria has become endangered and therefore has not been functioning as it once did.

Whilst this is a scary concept, it also means that Medical teams are working to better understand what’s happening, and how to ultimately improve autoimmune conditions. It will help understand why some people get really ill whilst others suffer less. The aim is to improve the longevity of our health but it will require healing the gut first.

Gallery: Image of Healthy Living flowchart, Renew Balm & Just Soothing, Wellness Positive thinking, Smoothie.

Autoimmune conditions can be quite disheartening and stressful, especially if you are unable to pinpoint what’s wrong with your body and gut. But rest assured, there are ways of finding out and putting order back into the current stressful situation. Start by being kind to yourself and accepting that something you’re having is no longer in agreement with your body.  This is hard to do, especially if you are not ready.  But once you accept that your body needs a change, it will be the beginning to finding the culprit of your well-being.

What can we do to help get to the bottom of this? If you have any of these common symptoms, hopefully they are not that serious and will go away with time. However,  if they are persistent, please get yourself checked out. You might think that leaky gut only affects the digestive system, but the truth is, it can affect the body is so many other ways.

The main organs, tissues that are affected by autoimmune diseases are:
• Skin – with symptoms like Rashes, red bumps on facial skin or red flaking skin. Other skin concerns are Acne, Rosacea, Eczema, Psoriasis, Dermatitis;
• Digestive tract upsets – Stomach cramps, Gas or bloated stomach, Diarrhea or constipation, may indicate irritable bowel disease;
• Brain – Anxiety, Stress, Headaches, Brain Fog, Fatigue or hyperactivity, feeling weird, tired or even exhausted;
• Red blood & blood vessels;
• The Glands – affecting organs like the Pancreas for Type 1 Diabetes; the Thyroid, where underactivity causes Hashimoto’s disease or overactivity causes Graves’ disease. These activities usually result in Weight loss or gains;
• Connective Tissue – with conditions like Multiple Sclerosis and Lupus;
• Muscles & Joints – with symptoms like Rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia symptoms, giving pain, weakness, stiffness or other discomfort;
• Other symptoms include Attention Deficit problems, Asthma, Dry mouth, frequent colds, allergies, Feeling depressed.

That’s quite a lot to consider for Autoimmune problems, and if you’re experiencing any of these, you are not alone. Start with getting additional help – if you need to get certain tests done, whether they are blood or excrement tests, have them done by the right specialists. This will allow the doctors and specialists to check for various imbalances.

In summary, Intestinal Permeability or leaky gut syndrome begins with inflammation in the gut and intestines, where it progresses to eventually preventing nutrients being absorbed or the sufferer becomes sensitive to foods or chemicals eaten. The autoimmune disease syndrome can affect all parts of the body, including:
• Joints, muscles, adrenal glands, Digestive tract functionality, the brain, skin, mouth, lungs, sinus & thyroids.
• If you have concerns about autoimmune disorders, start by removing foods and factors that can damage the gut;
• Replace them with dirty foods, healing foods as well as taking specific supplements and probiotics to help rebalance the gut.
• And remember that autoimmune disorders and leaky gut syndrome are not a ‘one fix fits all’ scenario.
• What works for one person and their family may not necessarily work for another.
• You can also choose from the Essentially Lili Help Skin Assistance Range of Products to bring relief whilst you are undergoing treatments and finding the culprit.
• Please remember not to the medications if you have been given them, but seek medical advice.  Resolving this is not as simple as taking supplements and Probiotics.

Ideally, removing foods that can cause damage to the gut is necessary. Replace these with foods that help heal, repair and re-balance with Probiotics and supplements. I will write more about dirty foods, microbiome, foods that heal and Probiotics in the next Blog.

Begin a new page – seek alternative methods if you don’t want to take medications as there are plenty of new options. Whether these options are through the Nutritionist, Specialist, Acupressure, Reflexology, Herbal teas & medicines, Homeopathy pills as well as Conventional medication.

Your goal should be to find a solution that gives you well-being to your Mind, Body and Spirit a Holistic balance of all these.

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  • Did you find you have an autoimmune disorder and what did you do to resolve it?<l/i>
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    About Lili & Essentially Lili

    My Health Studies include from 2016-2019 Diplomas in Aromatherapy, Holistic Skincare Products, Clinical Nutrition, Stress Management, Reflexology, Holistic Pain Management. I’m a Member of International College of Holistic Medicine. I’m currently studying Clinical Nutrition for Over 50s.

    My aim is to help you get the results you want as I have already been on that hard journey to overcome the autoimmune disorder. If you wish to know more about Clinical Nutrition and how to kick start your health, book a private Consultation. Please send an email to info@essentiallylili.com should you need further assistance.  At Essentially Lili, the products made are all using 100% Natural Ingredients.  See the wide variety of Products available on the webpage.

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    See the Blog Library for previous writings about Alopecia Areata, Face Mapping, Dry Skin in Winter, Raiding Your Fridge, Keratosis Pilaris Tips, Anguish of Acne/Rosacea, How to deal with Cystic Acne & Understanding Your Body. Your feedback allows us to improve the content and information provided and products made.

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