The Cacao Dilemma - with Cacao recipes!

The Cacao Dilemma ..... includes some simple Cacao recipes! 

I felt compelled to write a blog post on cacao, having read and heard so much about raw chocolate.

My reason for getting attracted to it recently was that After 5 months of being on wheat free/dairy free/sugar free 80% of the time, I was still getting chocolate cravings! I'd kept on with my dried figs and fresh fruit on all sweet cravings, but chocolate just has that smooth, velvety texture that it couldn't help but creep back into my imagination.
 
I had heard mostly good things about Cacao and only one negative, so I decided to buy some Cacao powder. I had been feeling really tired one day after my workout as I was about to come on my period. I was looking for something I could take that could balance out my hormones. So I made a Cacao, hemp seed, lucuma, banana, manuka honey and water smoothie. I've got to say that it was powerful stuff! whoa! You definitely can have too much of it! I listened to my body for the next few hours and noticed a significant improvement in my energy levels. By the evening I felt back to my usual self. My Conclusion - what a fab pick me up! I think this is due to the high content of magnesium in cacao which is what most women start lacking during the time of their period.

5 days later I had a cacao, lucuma, manuka and soya *warm* mug of chocolate. It was good!

5 days after that I had a water, cacao 1tbsp, hemp 2 tbsp, lucuma 1 tsp, mace had tsp, banana, melon smoothie :0) :0)

2 days later I tried this mousse: water, cacao 1 tbsp, 1 avocado, 1 banana, 1 tbsp hemp seeds, 1 tsp lucuma, half tsp maca - YUM! Oh this one is SO recommended!

A few weeks later I was looking online and for some reason everyone seemed to be talking about how cacao is this amazing health food and how it can cure illnesses. For me, it seemed like something good, but I couldn't see how having a cacao smoothie over a spirulina smoothie (for example) could be just as beneficial for my health. Something didn't seem right. So I decided to call up some nutritionist friends and ask their opinions. I was speaking to one particular nutritionist friend and he was saying that cacao can stimulate the adrenals and thus some people can have a hyperactive response to consuming it.

One month later I had been considering this cacao dilemma and in the process wanting to experiment with some new superfoods. So I bought some wheatgrass powder and barleygrass powder. In 2007 I had experimented with growing wheatgrass, but didn't keep it up for any length of time due to the technicalities of growing it. Instead of using cacao when I came on my period, I decided to use spirulina, wheatgrass and barleygrass in my morning water based smoothie. 2 days before I was due on, I was feeling my typical energy slump, so I made this smoothie. That evening, I had so much energy that I went for an extra workout! I never usually work out on that particular evening, but I just felt driven to do so! It was really amazing. This was the turning point for me, I realised that simply eating more superfoods is all you need to do to keep your energy levels up.  
Now that its been nearly a year since I've been consuming superfoods on a daily basis, I can say that without a doubt, superfoods have massively contributed to my consistent energy levels and wellbeing.

Since then I have still made my own raw chocolates and cacao based smoothies. Cacao is obviously a million times better for you than the 'chocolate' that is sold on the mass market as it contains no dairy and no sugar. So if you want guilt-free chocolate, then this is the only way to go! Food is both nutritional and social isn't it? So its fun to have fun with it and not be so serious all the time. Once you've got into the swing of your new way of life (for me it was 90 days no wheat no dairy no sugar) its great to live by the 80/20 rule - eat the high nutrition based foods and foods you grow yourself 80% of the time, and then enjoy the odd glass of wine, raw chocolates etc, 20% of the time. 

If you haven't read it already, here's my 6 month update: http://createyourtruelife.blogspot.co.uk/2012/11/6-months-on-detox-lifestyle.html
My One year update is coming shortly!

Thanks for reading, till next time, 

Much love,








Leona x
 Helping you to live your most authentic life
http://www.createyourtruelife.com

Effective Goal Setting and Creating Fulfilling New Years Resolutions

Happy New Year everyone! 

Today I uploaded a new Video talking about New Years Resolutions and Goal setting. 

I talk about a new approach to this, one thats more heart-based and will make you breathe a sigh of relief! 

Its all about non-attachment, flexibility and enjoying the process. I know what you're thinking - Sounds good already!

Enjoy!

With Much love,


Leona.
Inspiring you to Create Your True Life.
www.createyourtruelife.com

3 ways to have a Happy Family Christmas

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Christmas Holidays can be exciting for many, but also daunting too. With so much going on it can be easy to loose yourself and get caught up in unnecessary and unbeneficial dramas.

Here's my top 3 tips on  
How to make Christmas Holidays with the family run smoothly:

1 - Prepare.

Try to ask yourself as much questions as possible about your expectations of the Holidays. 

For example, What kinds of situations do you not want to get into and why? What's kinds of things are you worrying about? Who or what do you avoid at this time and why? 

Then answer these questions in depth. Get a notebook and write it down. Confronting them in your mind first before they happen, will make it much easier to deal with at the time. Writing them down also helps put your issues into perspective and can help you look at things in a different way. Try to think of different kinds of solutions to your issues.


If you're in doubt ask, "If I were someone dealing with this situation in the best possible way, what would I do?"

2 - Let go.

If you have issues with particular people you are about to spend time with, the best thing you can do for the moment is let it go. Put your issues to one side and practice forgiveness. Whatever has happened in the past is for now, in the past and imagine this day is like a fresh start. Really imagine it. Close your eyes and run the whole thing over as if its gone the best way it could. Repeat this until you really believe that its a possibility and that you're ready to make it happen.

If the issues run deep or are more pressing, then ask to meet the person for a calm discussion before the holidays. Choose a neutral meeting point where you both feel relaxed. Never get into a heated debate on Christmas day, where the alcohol is flowing and you'll probably say things you'll regret.

On the Day, if you're doing the best you can and the other person is not thinking or acting in a good way, then rise above it, at all times. Remember the promise to yourself to let it go and make it run the best you can. You are the most important person in your life, be kind and gentle with yourself and stay true to yourself in every experience.


3 - Contribute.

Contribute to the celebrations in some way whether its a small or large gesture. Find something you can offer and offer it. Whether it be bringing a dish you have prepared, a game you can all play or a playlist for the party. There are endless ways!

If you're going to a party, then think about the hosts, what would they really appreciate from you? Maybe its as simple as helping with the washing up? Or why not ask them if there's anything you can do for them? Saying certain things can also be a form of contributing. Try telling someone that you really appreciate them. It doesn't even have to be for a particular reason!

When you contribute it makes you feel part of the action and you have a renewed sense of belonging. Plus it makes you feel really good!

Remember it's your Christmas. Celebrate it how you want to, not how everyone expects you to. Bring your personality to the occasion. Try doing something differently. Give others a break and allow yourself to relax. The Christmas Holidays can be a tense time, but they can also be one of the most rewarding times of the year.


With Warm and Sparkly Wishes





Leona x

Dedicated to helping you Create Your True Life
Empowering Self Development Sessions in person or via Skype
www.createyourtruelife.com

6 Months on the Detox Lifestyle!

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6 months on the Detox Lifestyle!

I thought I'd share with you what I've learnt over the last 6 months with the view to inspire you to take up a detox lifestyle of your own.

How you organise your detox lifestyle is up to you and its different for everyone. Its fundamentally about getting rid of old habits and adopting new beneficial ones in your mind, body and spirit. If you're not sure of what habits you have or would like to change, make a diary for a week of the kind of excercise you do, food you eat, etc and then review it after the week is through. You'll soon see what patterns you have and what you'd like to change.

For me, I wanted to change my eating patterns. I was exercising quite regularly and was pleased with my habits there. However, I wasn't happy about my habits with food.

For my detox lifestyle to become more balanced, I wanted to change 3 main eating patterns:

1- Drinking a glass of wine most evenings.

2- Eating a bar of chocolate most evenings and

3- Eating toast every morning for breakfast.

So I decided to give up wheat, dairy and sugar for 30 days. 


Then 30 days turned into 6 months! :D
 

Here's the lowdown on my 6 month journey:

1- How much did you stick to the wheat free, dairy free and sugar free challenge?

In the first 30 days, I did about 98%. The 2% discrepancy was mainly to do with things that happened by accident! You would be amazed at how much sugar there is in food, even in those little spice mixes you get! Unbelievable.

In 60 days, I stuck to the detox about 90%. This was due to me wanting to try the things I hadn't been having for such a long time! (When I did, they didn't taste that great anymore anyway).

In 90 days, I stuck to it about 85% of the time and beyond 90 days I've kept to this percentage. The only times I'm ever eating wheat, dairy or sugar is when I'm out with friends, or if someone buys me lunch and they didn't realise the new lifestyle I'm into.

2- What were the highlights?

Day 20 was the first highlight for me. I could literally feel my legs thinner in my jeans! It was weird but good!

Day 30 was the second. I was so pleased that I had committed to the challenge and followed through to this milestone day! *proud*

Day 43 was the third highlight. It was an exciting day as I bought lots of new superfoods to try and was super excited to give them a go!

Day 63 was the fourth. I had gone down 3 notches on my belt! Amazing!

3- What were the lows?

Day 15 - Obsession. What was I going to eat and when was I going to eat it?

Day 35 - Boredom. After getting a routine going, things seemed samey. I researched new ways of doing things and got to changing things up. This was a crucial step and now I do this regularly.

Day 47 - Dehydration after consuming wheat and sugar. Realisation - this old food is not good for me!

4- What things did you notice changing other than the physicality of your body ?

I felt lighter, happier and more in control. I gained more determination, more eagerness and a great sense of achievement. I felt a strong sense of centredness.

5- What drove you to keep going?

- Remembering what it was like before, that 'not bothered' attitude of what I'm putting in my body. 
- The willingness to get to a place of noticeable change. 
- The feeling that I could inspire others if I really made a difference to myself.

6- What would you say to people looking to do their own detox?

That in order for you to see and benefit from the results, you must do at least 30 days of whatever it is you want to change at 100%. After 30 days you don't have to be as hard-core and in fact its better for your well-being to realise that perfection is simply an illusion. Doing your best, as much as you can is what matters.

7- What kinds of replacement foods can you recommend for wheat free, dairy free and sugar free?

These are just some suggestions, its not an exhaustive list, just things that work for me. Experiment! Try your own.

Instead of chocolate = dried figs! (or any dried fruit without preservatives)
Instead of toast/bread eat = maize, rye bread or rye crispbreads
Instead of milk = rice or almond milk
Instead of yogurt = coconut butter
Instead of sugary or salty snacks = fruit, seeds, dried fruit, nut mixes
Instead of vinegar = olive oil
Instead of butter = olive oil
Instead of cheese = tofu or nuts, depending on the dish
Instead of tea/coffee = herbal tea (literally freshly chopped herbs)
Instead of frying = steam
Instead of meat = fish
Instead of sugar = manuka honey
 
So there you go! My 6 month summary with some suggestions for you. What do you want to change in your life? You can do it, I believe in you. Give it a go today! There's never a *perfect* time to start, except for now! :D

If you'd like to see my in depth blog about the first 90 days, it starts here. Or go to the Healthy Eating pages and scroll down. Enjoy!

Till next time,

Much Love


Leona.
http://www.createyourtruelife.com

5 advantages of being Emotionally Sensitive

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It's an interesting thing, sensitivity. I was brought up with the belief that emotionally sensitive people are vulnerable. In my experience I have found is that the reverse is actually true. Now I believe that without some level of sensitivity, you cannot be a truly fulfilled human being. Being sensitive has massive lasting benefits that are often overlooked.

It's the initial point of interaction that can be difficult for someone who is sensitive and that's what we tend to hang onto. If you're emotionally sensitive you can take what someone says as personal to you and even harmful. Once this reaction is understood and worked with, it can be powerfully and positively harnessed and used for maximum benefits. For example, when you understand that there is no benefit in taking what someone is saying to you personally and then you put a new reaction into practice repeatedly, you gradually gain a sense of empowerment. I have worked with hundreds of adults and children and all those who demonstrated sensitive qualities, turned out to be the most interesting, talented, resilient and successful in the long term.

The wonderful Jim Rohn (1930-2009) said a beautiful quote which I came across win the middle of writing this post. He said, "The more you care, the stronger you can be".

With that in mind, here are my 5 advantages of being sensitive:

1- You gain an enriched, magical quality to life. Have a unique viewpoint to offer and/or creative way of looking at the world.

2- You have a deeper understanding, inherent compassion and a strong connection in relationships with others.

3- You have a natural connection to all living things; nature, animals, 'source' and/or god.

4- You feel very fulfilled in what you do and/or you feel an importance to attain complete fulfilment in life.

5- You have or look to gain a sense of responsibility to others around you (including animals), your community and/or the planet at large.


So in conclusion, if you feel that you are sensitive - embrace it. Without sensitive people this world would be a cold and empty place. If you feel alone in your sensitivity then begin to understand more about yourself; when, how and why you act the way you do. Think about possible ways to overcome your actions and how you can really use your sensitivity to enhance your life experience. I promise that when you do, your life will become more balanced and enjoyable that you thought possible. If you need some tools to show you how then simply get in touch.

If you feel you are not a particularly sensitive person, then I urge you to take the time to experience humility. Get in touch with your emotions by purposefully putting yourself in situations that you know would evoke an emotional response, so that you can explore these feelings. You'll find that you become a fuller, more enriched human being as a result.

With Much Love and till next time,

 


 
Leona
Helping you to create the life you've always wanted.
http://www.createyourtruelife.com/

10 ways to stay happy in the Winter

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1- If its working, keep doing what your doing.

Whatever youre doing right now with your detox lifestyle that you love, keep doing it. The tendancy is to turn away from what you know and get into big hearty meals, load on sugar and slump on the sofa. Don't do it! Stay with your fab smoothies and juices for the reason why you did in the first place - they give you loads of energy and are packed with nutrition. If its not working, mix it up and research into new ways of doing things. Experiment with warming foods like ginger, cinnamon, dried fruit, Peppers, Oats, etc... More on detoxing.

2- Try Soup for Breakfast.

I know this sounds mental! but the Japanese have been doing it for centuries. Get some Miso soup or just make your own by experimenting with different combinations of veg. Use beans or lentils to thicken. Easy, warming, super tasty, nutritious and you can make batches enough for a couple of days if you like.


3- Go for walks in nature as often as possible. Get the sun on your face.

Get connected to nature at this beautiful time of year. Breathe in deeply when surrounded by trees. Top up on that vitamin D as much as possible. Supplement if you need to.

4- Keep your exercise routine up.

I know, you feel more tired when its dark - me too! But you know you feel a million times better after your workout.

5- Invest in a new coat, a snuggly blanket, a hot water bottle, new slippers and pure wool socks!

Ahhhhh! Treat yourself! These things make you feel snug and wonderful :D

6- Schedule in creative time. 

The Winter is the perfect time to get creative. Make a decoration for Christmas. Make a gift for someone. Make a pie. Whatever you fancy making, go do it. More on creativity.

7- Plan and visualise your future.

This is the perfect time to plan ahead. What would you like to achieve next year? What steps could you do to make this happen? What would love to to if time and money were no object? Dream a little....

8- Meditate

Find quiet time to breathe, centre and ground - often. You'll feel less lost and more like you.  More on meditating.

9- Do a good deed....or two!

Do something for someone that you know they'd love. It doesn't have to be a grand gesture - helping fix something for someone less able than you is a great way to show you care.

10- Embrace who you are and celebrate!

You are awesome! Just being you! Now go celebrate your awesomeness, just for the simple reason that you are alive. You're doing much better than you think.

With much love



Leona x
Dedicated to connecting you to who you are and your life purpose.
http://www.createyourtruelife.com/

Meditation - why bother?

Create Your True Life

I used to meditate everyday way back in 2007, but recently I was guided back into meditation through a friend of mine. What changed? Well, this guy offered me a completely different approach on WHY to meditate and this I wanted to share with you.

Before I used to meditate to clear my mind, relax and focus. I also used to do a lot of visualisations and used to find it benefited me creatively. However back in 2007 I had a lot of contradictions going on in my life - I saw that my creativity and my physical, practical life were quite separate. In fact it was my mission to get them to fuse together, but I wasn't making as much headway as I'd like. Meditation helped with this immensley.

When meeting up with my friend recently, he was doing a healing on me and let me know of a few things I needed to get straightened out - mainly things that I was overlooking. I immediately went into 'physical' mode - My response was "OK, I must do this then and that, and get this done asap!" However, THIS RESPONSE was what was the problem. Have you ever had that? Have you had so many things going on that you almost go into auto-pilot or 'do-do-do' mode?! I'm sure you have, its how most of us live in the Western World!

So my friend told me that its not about do-ing, its about be-ing. When you get into a meditative mode, you switch off your auto-pilot, your 'got to do this, that and the other' mode and you simply 'be'. Then, from this state of be-ing, you can begin to ASK. Asking is the key to this. And TRUST. When you ask, it is given. This is a natural law.

To put it another way, instead of creating more lists and goals from a physical perspective,  allow yourself to be who you are ALREADY, so that these things come out naturally and THEN get expressed. For some this might be difficult, - when was the last time you did something that was your passion, or what you really wanted to do? or When was the last time you did this thing regularly? It reminded me once of a quote I read "Do what inspires you first, then do everything else you have time for". Love this quote! Its helped me prioritise things in my life so much over the years.

Meditation gets you into your own space, free from internal chatter and into listening mode. When you ask "What do I need to know?" or "What would I really like to do now?" and then LISTEN - an answer will come. In my experience its not just one answer, but many. Then my advice to you is, go write your goals AFTER you've done this process, when you are truly in touch with what it is you want anyway - and WHY you want it. When you get excited about the things you are doing in your life, they literally pull you toward them, its irresistible!

www.createyourtruelife.com

It might take you a few goes until you really get into the meditation 'zone', but if you are serious about creating your true life, this is an invaluable tool for you. For me it usually takes around ten minutes to clear, I find deep breathing helps immensely. I actually love the feeling of stretching out my lungs and getting all that air to pass in and out. The great thing is that there are tons of ways you can create your own space and listen, not just through meditation.

If you want to find out more, I can show you how. Simply book a "Make Change Happen" programme with me today. All you need know is that you WANT to change something and the rest will flow.

Till next time, much love

Leona x
www.createyourtruelife.com/