Oley's Thoughts: 2012 - Year of the Dragon

Of all the animals in the Chinese zodiac the Dragon is considered the most auspicious. As a powerful symbol of creativity, transformation and good fortune, I'm sure we are all ready to welcome the Year of the Dragon.

In Classical Chinese thought Dragons were considered as clouds and it is in this way that we can gain insight into the energetic dynamics that will be supported in the year to come. Clouds are a manifestation of the moment to moment dynamic interaction between the Heavens above and the Earth below. They are not static nouns. They are active verbs. They do not spend time plotting their next move. They are vital in the infinite present. They do not process the past before they create the future. They are spontaneous and complete right now. They are an authentic expression of a power that includes them and is more than them. They allow for the full expression of this power by not getting in the way with any kind of personal agenda, but letting it move through and beyond them. Can you imagine a rigid cloud, unwilling to move with the wind and expand with the sunlight?

In the Year of the Dragon spontaneous authenticity is paramount. Acting to conceal your intentions will only get them exposed that much faster, and if they are not honest and true the energy of the Dragon will break them down and transform them so that you may be held accountable to yourself and the rest of the universe. It is in this way only that we can grow and develop and expand beyond old paradigms and belief systems that no longer serve us. Now is the time to speak from your Heart. Now is the time to express what you know to be true. Now is the time to hold yourself accountable to the highest standards of honesty and integrity. Dragons can walk on land, swim in the ocean, and fly in the sky. Now is the time to harness their energy and go for a ride.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

Ancient Wisdom Meets Evidence-Based Medicine
An evening with Dr. Stacy Mulkey

This talk will include some topics specific to cancer and much, MUCH more! Dr. Stacy will explore several time-honored nature cure therapies that have been used to reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system for centuries.

Many of these therapies can be used to treat and prevent cancer, as well as any other chronic disease involving inflammation, such as diabetes, heart disease, arthritis, allergies, hormone imbalance, migraines, auto-immune disease, to name just a few!

She will also discuss other therapies newer on the horizon of cancer treatment, such as intravenous (IV) vitamin C and mistletoe, and the roles they play in Integrative Oncology.

Join us Tuesday, January 17, 2012 at 6:30pm at the Durango Public Library.
Call Namaste at 247-2043 to RSVP.

Jess' Corner

Durango Nutrition's Jess Kelly, Master Nutrition Therapist, will be offering the following classes:

Nutrition & Fertility - Conceiving & Hormone-Free Prevention:

If your goal is to have children or prevent conception, learn strategies and nutrition protocols that allow this to happen naturally, without hormones. Learn how to go off birth control pills and gain a better understanding of the Fertility Awareness Method. Learn which foods both men and women should avoid if trying to conceive. Finally, learn how to prepare and taste meals rich in fertility and hormone balancing specific nutrients.

Date: Thursday, Feb 9th, 6-8pm at Hippocrates Kitchen at Namaste
Cost: $75 per person/$130 per couple. Includes a nutrition seminar, power point handout of information and recipes, cooking demo/tasting, and 30-minute individual consult.

Three Week (Custom) Private Cooking Series

What: Three, 90-minute sessions - over 4 hours of cooking instruction!! Learn how to make 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners - all gluten free (other allergens and preferences also addressed if needed) and all under 30 minutes!

Cost: $195 - includes hands-0n prep and cooking instruction, the cost of food (99% organic and 100% gluten free), and printed recipes to take home.

For either of these classes, contact Jess Kelley at 970-903-9271 or email jess@durangonutrition.com.

Steve is cooking again!

For those of you that have already had the pleasure of cooking with Steve, you know what fun it is! Grab a friend and join us for more amazing gluten-free dishes, witty conversation and endless laughter. Each class will be held on a Tuesday evening from 6-8 and the fee is $65 each, except for the Valentine night special.

Tues, January 24th - Breakfast!!

Tues, January 31 - How Sugar Stacks Up

Tues, Feb 7 - Seductive Foods to Cook for Your Special Lady Friend

Tues, Feb 14 - Cooking For Couples - Valentines Day Special (only $120/couple)

Call Namaste Health Center at 247-2043 to sign up.

Julia's Jewels

Looking for that perfect Valentines Day gift for your sweetie? A gift certificate for a Shiatsu massage is a one-size-fits-all gift that keeps on giving. Call Namaste for more details or to schedule an appointment with Julia.

Also....Stay tuned for a February gluten-free support group with speakers, food, and recipes! Time and venue to be announced.

And speaking of gluten...Check out this month's "Living Without" magazine for an article written by a pharmacist detailing facts about gluten-containing prescription drugs. Knowledge is power.