Here is a great article written by my friend Matt Marshall over at Tried and True Fitness. I hope you enjoy it.
Here is a great article written by my friend Matt Marshall over at Tried and True Fitness. I hope you enjoy it.
I think so……

Several years ago I heard a guy by the name of Dr. A. W. Martin talking on the radio about the benefits of Oil of Oregano. Since then I have done some of my own research on this stuff. It can be a strong anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-parasitic oil that can reduce pain and inflammation and effectively fight off infections.
The best thing it has done for me is help fight of colds. All you have to do is at the first sign of a cold is put several drops on your tongue and then swish it around for 10 or 20 seconds, then swallow. I warn you, this is going to burn a bit (maybe a lot) but is well worth the effort. Because of this process I rarely catch a cold or the flu.
“Oil of Oregano” Smells like a pizza, goes down like Buckley’s and Tequila. Give it a try.
Dr. Martin’s Natural Flu Shot
The most important thing during the cold and flu season is to protect and build your immune system. The best way to prevent winter viruses is through natural supplements. We strongly recommend these four powerful remedies that work together to achieve maximum immune-building during the cold and flu season:
1. Oil of Oregano
Oregano is high in antioxidant activity which is probably the origin of the many health benefits of oregano oil. Oregano oils, thymol and carvacrol are believed to be the main sources of its benefits. The most widely known and spread benefit of oregano oil is its ability to cure mild stomach problems. It is also well known for its cough-clearing qualities. However oregano has many other benefits, among these: exterminating fungus, digestive problems, migrane headaches, athlete’s foot, sore throats, breathing problems, dandruff (and other skin problems). These two phenols work “synergistically” and that is the reason oil of oregano packs a double punch in antiseptic power and explains why it is infinitely more potent in microbial killing power.
All of this helps make oregano oil a significant factor in treating internal and external fungi, including athlete’s foot. Skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema can be improved with the treatment as well. Ingram explains the astonishing discovery that “oil of oregano outright destroys all varieties of fungi and yeasts, regardless of where they reside.”
In addition to fighting various fungi, oil of oregano is useful to fight against bacteria and parasites. As Ingram asserts, “oil of oregano’s antiseptic powers are immense… it inhibits the growth of the majority of bacteria, something that prescription antibiotics often fail to accomplish.” In the case of parasites, oil of oregano has had success neutralizing worms, amoeba and protozoans.
Additional uses for oregano and oil of oregano are multi-dimensional. They have been found helpful in combating diarrhea, intestinal gas and idgestion problems, as well as sore throat and breathing difficulties. Oil of oregano can be of immediate help against bee stings and many venomous bites until medical attention can be reached. Oil of oregano has been suggested as a treatment for dandruff, diaper rash and other skin disorders.
Numerous university studies (Georgetown, Cornell, Tennessee) and independent research have shown oregano oil to be a potent antimicrobial. The ever growing body of evidence is showing oregano oil to be useful as an antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal agent rivaling even pharmaceutical antibiotics such as streptomycin, penicillin, vacnomycin, nystatin and amphotericin in it’s ability to eliminate microbes. Remarkably it accomplishes this without promoting the development of drug resistant strains and other problems often attributed to the use of standard antibiotics.
In addition to this already impressive list of abilities, oregano oil is also a powerful parasitic expellant; is valuable as a food preservative; and has been used to decontaminate foods from potentially harmful pathogen’s. Carvacrol has been identified as the chief constituent behind oregano oil’s extraordinary properties and is thought to work synergistically with the other components found in Wild Mediterranean Oregano Oil. These findings have been published in various scientific functions.
READ MORE….
Meditation refers to a state where your body and mind are consciously relaxed and focused. Practitioners of this art report increased awareness, focus, and concentration, as well as a more positive outlook in life.
Meditation is most commonly associated with monks, mystics and other spiritual disciplines. However, you don’t have to be a monk or mystic to enjoy its benefits. And you don’t even have to be in a special place to practice it. You could even try it in your own living room!
Although there are many different approaches to meditation, the fundamental principles remain the same. The most important among these principles is that of removing obstructive, negative, and wandering thoughts and fantasies, and calming the mind with a deep sense of focus. This clears the mind of debris and prepares it for a higher quality of activity.
The negative thoughts you have – those of noisy neighbors, bossy officemates, that parking ticket you got, and unwanted spam– are said to contribute to the ‘polluting’ of the mind, and shutting them out is allows for the ‘cleansing’ of the mind so that it may focus on deeper, more meaningful thoughts.
Some practitioners even shut out all sensory input – no sights, no sounds, and nothing to touch – and try to detach themselves from the commotion around them. You may now focus on a deep, profound thought if this is your goal. It may seem deafening at first, since we are all too accustomed to constantly hearing and seeing things, but as you continue this exercise you will find yourself becoming more aware of everything around you.
If you find the meditating positions you see on television threatening – those with impossibly arched backs, and painful-looking contortions – you need not worry. The principle here is to be in a comfortable position conducive to concentration. This may be while sitting cross-legged, standing, lying down, and even walking.
If the position allows you to relax and focus, then that would be a good starting point. While sitting or standing, the back should be straight, but not tense or tight. In other positions, the only no-no is slouching and falling asleep.
Loose, comfortable clothes help a lot in the process since tight fitting clothes have a tendency to choke you up and make you feel tense.
The place you perform meditation should have a soothing atmosphere. It may be in your living room, or bedroom, or any place that you feel comfortable in. You might want an exercise mat if you plan to take on the more challenging positions (if you feel more focused doing so, and if the contortionist in you is screaming for release). You may want to have the place arranged so that it is soothing to your senses.
Silence helps most people relax and meditate, so you may want a quiet, isolated area far from the ringing of the phone or the humming of the washing machine. Pleasing scents also help in that regard, so stocking up on aromatic candles isn’t such a bad idea either.
The monks you see on television making those monotonous sounds are actually performing their mantra. This, in simple terms, is a short creed, a simple sound which, for these practitioners, holds a mystic value.
You do not need to perform such; however, it would pay to note that focusing on repeated actions such as breathing, and humming help the practitioner enter a higher state of consciousness.
The principle here is focus. You could also try focusing on a certain object or thought, or even, while keeping your eyes open, focus on a single sight.
One sample routine would be to – while in a meditative state – silently name every part of you body and focusing your consciousness on that part. While doing this you should be aware of any tension on any part of your body. Mentally visualize releasing this tension. It works wonders.
In all, meditation is a relatively risk-free practice and its benefits are well worth the effort (or non-effort – remember we’re relaxing).
Studies have shown that meditation does bring about beneficial physiologic effects to the body. And there has been a growing consensus in the medical community to further study the effects of such. So in the near future, who knows, that mystical, esoteric thing we call meditation might become a science itself!
Have you ever heard of Seth Godin? Here is a great lecture on standing out in the world of marketing and business.
Seth Godin from dov weisman on Vimeo.

There are lots of reasons to get into shape. You hear these things all of the time.
• It makes you feel good
• You have more energy
• Improves confidence
• And over all health
These are all great reasons, but I believe there is a greater and more compelling reason.
If you have children, parents, a spouse, or anyone who loves you, then you owe it to them and to yourself, to be in the best shape and health that you can be.
Here’s the good news and bad news and bad news about getting into shape. The good news is that it is easy to get into shape. The bad news is it is easy to get into shape. Just Do IT!!! That is what the NIKE commercial says and it is so true.
I used to do some personal training and was quite involved in bodybuilding. I’ve spent a lot of time learning how the body ticks and how to produce results. It is amazing what you can make your body do if you are willing to push yourself.
Now I am not expecting you to train like a bodybuilder. Just know that if you are willing to push yourself, even a little, I guarantee you will be amazed.
Here is a basic yet extremely effective fitness program I’ve developed.
Step 1 :This is the most difficult part of the entire program. If you can master this, then the rest will be a piece of cake. By the way, don’t eat the piece of cake it’s just an expression. Beat your alarm clock and get up 35 minutes earlier. That’s it… that is the hardest thing in my program.
Step 2 : Once you’re up, put on your sweats, grab a glass of water and ride your exercise bike that you conveniently placed in front of the TV set & for 30 minutes. You should have a good sweat going by the 15 minute mark. This must be done on an empty stomach, doing so greatly increases the fat burning process.
Do not push yourself so hard that you are out of breath. You should be able to talk normally while riding. If you cannot ride for 30 minutes, start off where you can and build up from there.
After riding do a cycle of 20 pushups followed by 20 free squats followed by 20 abdominal crunches. Rest for 30 seconds and repeat the cycle 1 or 2 more times. Remember; build up to 2-3 cycles at your own pace. Step #1&2 should be done 5 times per week.
Note: you can use any kind of cardio equipment that you have around the house. A treadmill or elliptical machine will work just fine too. If you don’t have anything than you should be able to buy a good used one, real cheap on Kijiji, Craig’s List, or in the newspaper. Or better yet just borrow one from a friend.
Step 3 Nutrition : Nutrition is defined as the process of absorbing nutrients from food and processing them in the body in order to keep healthy and to grow. To simplify this “you are what you eat”. If you want to be healthy than eat healthy. This can be done simply by drinking lots of water, 8-10 glasses per day, taking a multi vitamin and following a sound nutrition plan low in sugar and refined carbohydrates. Read the nutritional information in the post “Fat Loss Tips for the New Year” and watch the free Diet Solution Video. This information will really get you started.
You owe it to yourself, and to the ones you love, to be as fit & healthy as possible. Consistency is the Key.
Remember:
• Step 1 – get up 35 earlier don’t let the snooze on the alarm clock keep you from being in shape.
• Step 2 – empty stomach, ride that bike for 30 minutes, do the cycles. The more you push yourself, the better the results.
• Step 3 – Nutrition – you are what you eat.
…..Just…Do…It!!!
Well it is that time of the year again, and almost everyone has a New Year’s resolution. For a lot of people it is to lose weight and get into better shape. Over the next few days I will be posting some great information on how to do just that. In the meantime here are a few tips to get you started.
Tip 1
Focus on small changes, weight loss is not simply a diet change, but a lifestyle change. Since this can be overwhelming, try and start out with baby steps like going on a short walk around the block three or four times a week for thirty minutes. Get started with something you can easily do and quickly get used to. Then push the limit up a bit, once you are comfortable with what you are doing.
Tip 2
Say goodbye to fast food. These are loaded with harmful fats, preservatives, and chemicals.
Tip 3
Stay away from refined foods such as sugar and enriched products like white flour, white rice, white bread, and pasta. These have no nutritional value. Try sprouted grain breads, and whole grains, they do not spike your blood sugar, are filling and delicious.
Tip 4
Eat lots of colorful fruits and vegetables. It’s hard to argue with the health benefits of a diet rich in vegetables and fruits: Lower blood pressure, reduced risk of heart disease, stroke, and probably some cancers, lower risk of eye and digestive problems, and a mellowing effect on blood sugar that can help keep appetite in check.
Most people should aim for at least nine servings (at least 4½ cups) of vegetables and fruits a day, and potatoes don’t count. Go for a variety of kinds and colors of produce, to give your body the mix of nutrients it needs. Best bets? Dark leafy greens, raw or cooked tomatoes, and anything that’s a rich yellow, orange, or red color.
Tip 5
The power of protein…..The moment it leaves your fork, protein starts to eat away at your waistline. High-protein foods take more work to digest, metabolize, and use, which means you burn more calories processing them. They also take longer to leave your stomach, so you feel full sooner and for a longer period of time. The cumulative effect has obvious benefits for anyone who is watching their weight. Proteins are considered incomplete or complete proteins. Complete proteins contain all the essential amino acids, while incomplete proteins don’t. Good sources of complete proteins come from animals. For instance, eggs, milk, beef, chicken and fish all contain complete proteins. Healthy food choices for incomplete proteins include, nuts and beans.
Robert H. Lustig, MD, UCSF Professor of Pediatrics in the Division of Endocrinology, explores the damage caused by sugary foods. He argues that fructose (too much) and fiber (not enough) appear to be cornerstones of the obesity epidemic through their effects on insulin. Series: UCSF Mini Medical School for the Public [7/2009] [Health and Medicine]
The prophet Mohammed reportedly said that seeds of the black cumin plant could cure “anything but death itself”. While that may seem to be quite the tall order, black cumin (Nigella sativa) does in fact have remarkable healing and health properties that make it one of the most powerful medicinal plants known to man.
Black cumin is a part of the buttercup family and the seeds are dark, thin, and crescent-shaped when whole. The seeds have been used for many centuries in the Middle East, the Mediterranean and India. Today, black cumin seeds are used as a seasoning spice in different cuisines across the world due to their nutty flavor.
The seeds of the black cumin plant contain over 100 chemical compounds, including some yet to be identified. In addition to what is believed to be the primary active ingredient, crystalline nigellone, black cumin seeds contain: thymoquinone, beta sitosterol. myristic acid, palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, stearic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, linolenic acid, arachidonic acid, protein, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, folic acid, calcium, iron, copper, zinc, and phosphorous.
Black cumin seeds have a particularly long and strong history of use in Egypt. When archaeologists found and examined the tomb of Egyptian boy-king Tutankhamen (King Tut), they found a bottle of black cumin oil, which suggested that it was believed to be needed in the afterlife.
Physicians to the Egyptian pharaohs frequently used the seeds after extravagant feasts to calm upset stomach. They also used the seeds to treat headaches, toothaches, colds, and infections. Queen Nefertiti, renowned for her stunning beauty, used black seed oil, likely due to its abilities to strengthen and bring luster to hairand nails.
Hundreds of studies have been conducted on black cumin which have shown that compounds from the seeds help fight diseases by boosting the production of bone marrow, natural interferon, and immune cells.
Several of the studies have shown that black cumin seed extract could assist individuals with autoimmune disorders, and could possibly help to fight cancer. One recent study on black cumin seed oil demonstrated that it was effective against pancreatic cancer, one of the deadliest and most difficult to treat cancers. Black cumin is one of the very few botanicals that have shown such effectiveness (the other most notable one is oleander extract).
One of black cumin’s most popular and effective uses is the treatment of diseases related to the respiratory system, including asthma, bronchitis, rheumatism and cold symptoms. The seeds help increase body tone, stimulate menstrual period, and increase the flow of breast milk in nursing mothers.
Black cumin seed oil helps calm the nervous system, quells colic pain, stimulates urine production, helps treat pertussis, and helps prevent and lower high blood pressure.
The seeds are very effective in curing abscesses and tumors of the eye, abdomen and liver, probably due in great part to the anti-tumor compound beta-sitosterol found in the seeds.
Black cumin also:
*stimulates body’s energy and helps in recovery from fatigue and low spirits.
*is an effective cure for skin conditions such as allergies, eczema, acne, psoriasis and boils.
*is anti-parasitic.
*treats flatulence, diarrhea, hemorrhoids, constipation and dysentery.
NOTE: Those who decide to use black cumin seed oil should check labels and product information carefully. Black cumin is commonly referred to as black seed oil, black onion seed, black caraway, and black sesame seed, and other names, but only Nigella sativa is true black cumin.
There is a lot of debate as to what the greatest vitamin actually is. Each vitamin has its own essential functions that contribute to a person’s general health and well-being. It is impossible to actually state that one of these is the greatest vitamin. However there are a number of foods that provide the greatest vitamin quantities.
The greatest vitamin sources vary for each vitamin. It is important to have a balanced diet to ensure that the required amounts of each vitamin are obtained. However, it may be useful to list the greatest vitamin sources for each vitamin to be used as a guide.
* Greatest vitamin A sources are milk, eggs, butter, yellow fruits & vegetables, dark green fruits & vegetables, liver
* Greatest vitamin B1 sources are brewer’s yeast, whole grains, blackstrap molasses, brown rice, organ meats, egg yolk
* Greatest vitamin B2 sources are brewer’s yeast, whole grains, legumes, nuts, organ meats, blackstrap molasses
* Greatest vitamin B3 sources are lean meats, poultry & fish, brewer’s yeast, peanuts, milk, rice bran, potatoes
* Greatest vitamin B4 sources are egg yolks, organ meats, brewer’s yeast, wheat germ, soybeans, fish, legumes
* Greatest vitamin B5 sources are organ meats, egg yolks, legumes, whole grains, wheat germ, salmon, brewer’s yeast
* Greatest vitamin B6 sources are meats, whole grains, organ meats brewer’s yeast, blackstrap molasses, wheat germ
* Greatest vitamin B7 sources are egg yolks, liver, unpolished rice, brewer’s yeast, sardines, legumes, whole grains
* Greatest vitamin B8 sources are who1e grains, citrus fruits, molasses, meat, milk, nuts, vegetables, brewer’s yeast
* Greatest vitamin B9 sources are dark-green leafy vegetables, organ meats, root vegetables, oysters, salmon, milk
* Greatest vitamin B12 sources are organ meats, fish, pork, eggs, cheese, milk, lamb, bananas, kelp, peanuts
* Greatest vitamin B13 sources are root vegetables, liquid whey
* Greatest vitamin B15 sources are brewer’s yeast, rare steaks, brown rice, sunflower, pumpkin & sesame seeds
* Greatest vitamin B17 sources are whole kernels of apricots, apples, cherries, peaches, plums
* Greatest vitamin C sources are citrus, cabbage family, chilli peppers, berries, melons, asparagus, rose hips
* Greatest vitamin D sources are salmon, sardines, herring, milk, egg yolk, organ meats, sprouted seeds, sunflower seeds
* Greatest vitamin E sources are cold-pressed oils, eggs, wheat germ, organ meats, molasses, sweet potatoes, nuts
* Greatest vitamin F sources are vegetable oils, butter, sunflower seeds
* Greatest vitamin K sources are green leafy vegetables, egg yolks, safflower oil, blackstrap molasses, cauliflower
* Greatest vitamin Q sources are pinto beans, legumes, soybeans
* Greatest vitamin T sources are sesame seeds, raw seeds, butter, egg yolk
* Greatest vitamin V sources are raw cabbage, sauerkraut, leafy vegetables