Saturday, September 25, 2010

Hematite Properties and Clensing

Says I can't cleanse it in water.


Hematite:
Properties: This crystal is the most recommended stone for grounding and is associated with the Root Chakra, by encourages ones survival instincts and is centering. Hematite condenses scattered feelings, turns fuzziness into mental clarity, enhances concentration, memory, practicality, helps those who study, do bookkeeping, detailed work and helps with sound sleep. Considered the symbol of life energy, hematite allows for more confidence, will power and boldness. Helps us adjust to being physical. A protective stone and helps bolster low self-esteem. Hematite is known to deflect negativity. It restores equilibrium, stability and is also used for astral protection. It brings our awareness back to the body and helps one maintain their sense of self. If worn, Hematite should be placed near the base of the spine.
Folk Remedies: Hematite is associated with the Spleen, blood, and cleansing. The iron in this mineral has a strong effect on the blood. Used in supporting the kidney's blood-cleansing function. Recommended for those with anemia. Helps in tissue regeneration. Hematite is given to those who need to regroup after jet lag, stress, birth and anesthesia. Hematite aids absorption of iron in the small intestines and benefits all fluid functions in the body.
Feng Shui: Used in the Center area for balancing and grounding, in the Southeast for self worth and in the Northeast area for self-cultivation.
Crystal Cleansing: Do not cleanse this stone in water. It can be charged over night in a bowl of quartz, as this will release negative energy and increase its positive energy. Be careful as this stone will retain a "salt blemish" if washed in salt. Crystals react and energize by the light of the moon. The fuller the moon the more energized your crystal becomes. I would recommend your cleansing to be on or near the full moon so that the light can absorb into your crystal.
History: Hematite is silver-gray metallic, which is an iron ore (iron oxide Fe2O3). Found in the US, Brazil, and Canada. Hematite is derived from the Greek word meaning "blood". In soft powder or sedimentary form, this crystal is called "red ocher". Egyptians used hematite to calm hysteria and anxiety and was used for amulets. Roman soldiers wore it for protection. The Chinese see hematite as being more Yang in nature. Native Americans used red ochre for ceremonies and for war paint.
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Thursday, September 2, 2010

Cooking Healthy

So I was thinking to kinda give up bread and starchy stuff and start eating quinoa, barley, and such. I want to make a cold, Mediterranean salad, like the one I used to eat at IGA. I'd need chick peas, some japanese cucumber, some cherry tomatoes, some rice/grains/beans.


Mediterranean Grain Salad

I modified recipe to include stuff I like.

Ingredients
1 cup quinoa and/or bulgur
1/3 cup organic apple cider vinegar
2 tsp. olive oil or grape seed oil
1 medium clove garlic, minced
1/2 cup chopped Japanese cucumber
1/4 cup sliced  black olives
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
A few cherry tomatoes
A few chick peas
1/5 cup barley (to add)
1/5 cup rice (brown) (to add)
1/5  beans (to add)

Directions
  1. Cook quinoa, rice, beans, barley and rice (separately). When it's done,drain and rinse with cold water.
  2. Meanwhile, make dressing: in small bowl, whisk together vinegar, oil and garlic. Season to taste with salt and spices. Set aside.
  3. In large bowl, combine cucumber, olives, parsley, cherry tomatoes, chickpeas, beans. Mix well.
  4. Add dressing and toss to coat.
  5. Add quinoa, stir gently but thoroughly to combine. Refrigerate.

Notes:
Bulgur is made by soaking cooked whole wheat kernels (berries) which are then dried and part of the bran is removed. The remaining pieces are cracked into small pieces. Bulgar can be cooked and served as a grain or used in breads, soups, and even desserts.