I hope you all had a Happy and Healthy Thanksgiving! A time for counting our blessings, and sharing with friends and families. I took a little break from my day-to-day life, and headed down to Morgan Hill for some R & R. While I was there, I decided to put together some very simple, cancer prevention meals! One favorite meal was Pepper Tumeric Salmon with Sauteed Swiss Chard and Sauteed Sweet Potatoes & Carrots. Yum! I posted the recipes under "Retreat Recipes".
Eating healthy can be very simple and flavorful . . . if at all possible, buy organic! Fresh vegetables and fish, if prepared right, taste great!
Don't be afraid to eat greens, which should be eaten every day - sauteed in garlic and oil even the kids will love them . . .
It affects everyone!
Three Baskets of Asheville
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Sunday, November 21, 2010
It is a privilege to work with you . . .
Since I last posted on the blog autumn has began it's transition into winter here in the Adirondacks. The leaves have all fallen, and the early morning frost has halted all signs of life. The only thing left blooming in our garden are three very resiliant pansies that refuse to give up their lovely brightness despite Jack Frost's frequent icy kisses . . .
Three Baskets has also begun it's exciting transition . . . into education and healing, leaving us practioners feeling awed, inspired and privileged. Having been placed in the public eye by a very nice article written about Three Baskets in Saratoga Today (a local newspaper), we received a phone call from a lovely young woman recently diagnosed with liver cancer after having just recovered from colon cancer. She asked for our "Cellular Restoration" treatment, which consists of three sessions of reiki and massage (practiced on the patient at the same time).
What an empowering experience we had! This young woman was a ray of sunshine - she had a wonderful positive attitude, and great energy. She was so receptive to our healing touch that we all healed together on many levels.
Our new friend will be having surgery in a couple of weeks and we are privileged to have been invited to work with her while she recovers from surgery and begins chemotherapy. In the meantime, we will keep her in our hearts and prayers.
Three Baskets has also begun it's exciting transition . . . into education and healing, leaving us practioners feeling awed, inspired and privileged. Having been placed in the public eye by a very nice article written about Three Baskets in Saratoga Today (a local newspaper), we received a phone call from a lovely young woman recently diagnosed with liver cancer after having just recovered from colon cancer. She asked for our "Cellular Restoration" treatment, which consists of three sessions of reiki and massage (practiced on the patient at the same time).
What an empowering experience we had! This young woman was a ray of sunshine - she had a wonderful positive attitude, and great energy. She was so receptive to our healing touch that we all healed together on many levels.
Our new friend will be having surgery in a couple of weeks and we are privileged to have been invited to work with her while she recovers from surgery and begins chemotherapy. In the meantime, we will keep her in our hearts and prayers.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Breast Cancer walk in Albany
We did it! My first ever breast cancer walk with the ACS (american cancer society)
The walk was in downtown Albany and was packed to the hilt, what a turnout of support.
I will do this again!
The walk was in downtown Albany and was packed to the hilt, what a turnout of support.
I will do this again!
Thursday, October 14, 2010
Experience with Cancer
This is my first time blogging so here it goes!
I don't know where to start, other than to tell my story regarding cancer. It is not only my story, but my family's.
Watching someone you love die is the worst one can do. All there is to do is watch & try to deal with the insanity of it all while keeping your sanity. Seeing first my Father & then my sister die 7 years later has been life changing. Trying to describe it is virtually impossible; my Mother, brothers, nieces, nephews & myself still feel the empty spaces when we are together knowing that we are no longer whole and never will be again. We don't talk about it, but it's there. We do talk about Dad & Kelley often with lots of laughter & some tears.
While we were in the midst of it all, there were no resources to really explain to us what was going on. No offering of spiritual guidance, no where to go to deal with it all as a family and as individuals. There was no talk of taking care of oneself so that we could take care of our dying loved ones, no place to turn in our desperation and time of need.
I know that Morgan Hill Retreat will be the place that we needed back then and will help many people through such enormously difficult times, whether the prognosis is good or bad, it will be a place of refuge for the soul.
I don't know where to start, other than to tell my story regarding cancer. It is not only my story, but my family's.
Watching someone you love die is the worst one can do. All there is to do is watch & try to deal with the insanity of it all while keeping your sanity. Seeing first my Father & then my sister die 7 years later has been life changing. Trying to describe it is virtually impossible; my Mother, brothers, nieces, nephews & myself still feel the empty spaces when we are together knowing that we are no longer whole and never will be again. We don't talk about it, but it's there. We do talk about Dad & Kelley often with lots of laughter & some tears.
While we were in the midst of it all, there were no resources to really explain to us what was going on. No offering of spiritual guidance, no where to go to deal with it all as a family and as individuals. There was no talk of taking care of oneself so that we could take care of our dying loved ones, no place to turn in our desperation and time of need.
I know that Morgan Hill Retreat will be the place that we needed back then and will help many people through such enormously difficult times, whether the prognosis is good or bad, it will be a place of refuge for the soul.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Gentle Touch Massage, Cancer and Gratitude
This past weekend I had the privilege of attending a three-day workshop entitled "Massage for People Living with Cancer". It took place at the Onondaga School of Therapeutic Massage in Rochester, New York. It is the first of many workshops, and many hours of training required to become oncology certified in massage.
What I experienced there was inspiring - I spent three very full days, 8 hours a day, in a room with 20 other bodyworkers. We were all there for one purpose - to learn how to best provide massage and comfort to those who are suffering, or who have suffered with cancer. I learned how cancer affects people not only physically, but emotionally, and spiritually. I learned that the gift of Gentle Touch is one of the greatest gifts we can share with those who suffer with cancer - from the first diagnosis to the last treatment and beyond. Gentle massage helps to maintain quality of life, positive spirits and, most importantly, hope and dignity.
We were honored to have a guest come in and share her body and experience with us. She had a double mastectomy with no reconstructive surgery. She courageously showed us the scars on her chest, and spoke of her emotional scars that were not so visible to our eyes. She shared how massage has helped her to cope through her treatment, and how it continues to help her cope as a cancer survivor today.
At the end of the workshop, we were all able to work with someone who is, or was, suffering from cancer. I had a moving experience massaging a woman who had cancer in her left breast. She went through chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. She still lives with the very real fear of reoccurance. The best gift I received from her was her sharing with me from her heart - she told me how she lives each moment as fully and completely as she possibly can, and how she has found a level of peace and joy she has never had before as a result of her gratitude for life. What a profound lesson for us all.
What I experienced there was inspiring - I spent three very full days, 8 hours a day, in a room with 20 other bodyworkers. We were all there for one purpose - to learn how to best provide massage and comfort to those who are suffering, or who have suffered with cancer. I learned how cancer affects people not only physically, but emotionally, and spiritually. I learned that the gift of Gentle Touch is one of the greatest gifts we can share with those who suffer with cancer - from the first diagnosis to the last treatment and beyond. Gentle massage helps to maintain quality of life, positive spirits and, most importantly, hope and dignity.
We were honored to have a guest come in and share her body and experience with us. She had a double mastectomy with no reconstructive surgery. She courageously showed us the scars on her chest, and spoke of her emotional scars that were not so visible to our eyes. She shared how massage has helped her to cope through her treatment, and how it continues to help her cope as a cancer survivor today.
At the end of the workshop, we were all able to work with someone who is, or was, suffering from cancer. I had a moving experience massaging a woman who had cancer in her left breast. She went through chemotherapy, radiation and surgery. She still lives with the very real fear of reoccurance. The best gift I received from her was her sharing with me from her heart - she told me how she lives each moment as fully and completely as she possibly can, and how she has found a level of peace and joy she has never had before as a result of her gratitude for life. What a profound lesson for us all.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Living Mindfully in Changing Times
Sue was introduced to me as a mortgage broker back in 2008 when I was searching for a place to set up a meditation center in western North Carolina for Bhante U Jotika Bhivumsa, a Burmese Buddhist monk. When we finally met, it was not to talk about finances but to get together to meditate. From that first meeting onwards, we met weekly at Sue’s house for meditation under Bhante’s guidance. Although I knew Sue could help me secure a mortgage loan, we hardly even talked about finances.
After a few weeks Sue offered her home for us to stay while searching for a place. We were very grateful as she hardly knew us. We never did get to accept her offer. Soon afterwards, we found a place to live in Arden. In early 2009, we found a suitable place for our center in Mills River. It was during that time that I lost track of Sue. She had temporarily moved back to New York. We sent Sue our programs hoping she would find the time to come and visit us and sit with us. Some of our mutual friends came but Sue did not show up. I remember I felt a deep sadness then. In the crossroads of a lifetime, I met someone who is warm, helpful, sensitive, courteous and kind. Then, she was gone. If I had known what Sue was going through then, letting go of a business and planning a new life for herself, maybe I might not have been so sad.
Now, more than one year later, I am on Morgan Hill Retreat’s website, catching up with Sue’s work, and feeling a great sense of joy for her. I guess in a way we all are destined to do what has been carved out as our destination in life. It takes a lot of courage and resilience to do what Sue is doing now. Dealing with one friend, one patient, one colleague with cancer can be overwhelming. Nevertheless Sue has chosen this path where she will meet and help people who have cancer, or are recovering from it. I will do all I can to help her.
After a few weeks Sue offered her home for us to stay while searching for a place. We were very grateful as she hardly knew us. We never did get to accept her offer. Soon afterwards, we found a place to live in Arden. In early 2009, we found a suitable place for our center in Mills River. It was during that time that I lost track of Sue. She had temporarily moved back to New York. We sent Sue our programs hoping she would find the time to come and visit us and sit with us. Some of our mutual friends came but Sue did not show up. I remember I felt a deep sadness then. In the crossroads of a lifetime, I met someone who is warm, helpful, sensitive, courteous and kind. Then, she was gone. If I had known what Sue was going through then, letting go of a business and planning a new life for herself, maybe I might not have been so sad.
Now, more than one year later, I am on Morgan Hill Retreat’s website, catching up with Sue’s work, and feeling a great sense of joy for her. I guess in a way we all are destined to do what has been carved out as our destination in life. It takes a lot of courage and resilience to do what Sue is doing now. Dealing with one friend, one patient, one colleague with cancer can be overwhelming. Nevertheless Sue has chosen this path where she will meet and help people who have cancer, or are recovering from it. I will do all I can to help her.
Monday, September 13, 2010
With autumn comes change . . .
As autumn begins to ripen, and the harvest moon hangs heavy in the sky, we all feel a sense of change in the air. My ten year old and I made our first visit to the local apple farm for our favorite fresh picked Honeycrisp apples (read about apples and cancer prevention at www.webmd.com/cancer/news/20041018/apple-day-for-cancer-prevention ).
I also attended a wonderful yoga/detox/meditation class at my very favorite yoga studio in Glens Falls, New York - Lemon Tree Yoga (www.lemontreegyoga.com) - and enjoyed over four hours of sweating and detoxification - spiritual, emotional and physical!
This cancer retreat continues to evolve - Sue Hayden is currently working on an inspired new name for the retreat, and on all the legalities involved with New York and North Carolina states. I have gone back to school to continue my education and to get my degree in management & wellness. One of my courses this semester is Nonprofit Management! Very exciting stuff.
On the healing side, I am also very excited to be taking my first course towards getting my certification in oncology massage. I will be attending a course entitled "Massage for People Living with Cancer" at the Onondaga School of Therapeutic Massage in Rochester, New York the first weekend in October (www.massage-school.com).
On a sad note, my life continues to be touched on an almost daily basis by those suffering from cancer. At my current job (I presently work in the HR office in a large school district) I see many suffer from this crushing disease. We recently lost two employees - one to non hodgkin's lymphoma at age 53, and one to brain cancer at age 43. There are three employees that I know of who have been recently diagnosed - and these are young women in their 30's and 40's - a school nurse with pancreatic cancer, a teacher with colon cancer, and yet another teacher with stomach cancer. I feel there is such a tremendous need for what this cancer retreat will offer - complimentary/alternative healing (also known as CAM - complimentary/alternative medicine - read more about it at http://nccam.nih.gov/health/whatiscam/) that I feel blessed to be motivated to do this work, and to follow in the footsteps of Sue's inspiration.
I encourage all of you who are reading this blog to post your stories, ideas and inspirations about cancer, healing, wellness, etc - if you are interested in posting, and have not already been invited to be an author (this allows you to post), please contact Sue at info@morganhillretreats.com.
And if you are inspired to help out with this endeavor, and become part of the Morgan Hill Retreat team, please contact us.
On a final note, I encourage you all to invite wellness into your lives. Begin with a good green drink every day (we suggest Vibrant Health's Field of Greens - easily purchased on www.amazon.com), an exercise routine that you enjoy, and a spiritual practice that inspires you.
Enjoy the last days of summer, and the first of autumn's harvest bounty!
I also attended a wonderful yoga/detox/meditation class at my very favorite yoga studio in Glens Falls, New York - Lemon Tree Yoga (www.lemontreegyoga.com) - and enjoyed over four hours of sweating and detoxification - spiritual, emotional and physical!
This cancer retreat continues to evolve - Sue Hayden is currently working on an inspired new name for the retreat, and on all the legalities involved with New York and North Carolina states. I have gone back to school to continue my education and to get my degree in management & wellness. One of my courses this semester is Nonprofit Management! Very exciting stuff.
On the healing side, I am also very excited to be taking my first course towards getting my certification in oncology massage. I will be attending a course entitled "Massage for People Living with Cancer" at the Onondaga School of Therapeutic Massage in Rochester, New York the first weekend in October (www.massage-school.com).
On a sad note, my life continues to be touched on an almost daily basis by those suffering from cancer. At my current job (I presently work in the HR office in a large school district) I see many suffer from this crushing disease. We recently lost two employees - one to non hodgkin's lymphoma at age 53, and one to brain cancer at age 43. There are three employees that I know of who have been recently diagnosed - and these are young women in their 30's and 40's - a school nurse with pancreatic cancer, a teacher with colon cancer, and yet another teacher with stomach cancer. I feel there is such a tremendous need for what this cancer retreat will offer - complimentary/alternative healing (also known as CAM - complimentary/alternative medicine - read more about it at http://nccam.nih.gov/health/whatiscam/) that I feel blessed to be motivated to do this work, and to follow in the footsteps of Sue's inspiration.
I encourage all of you who are reading this blog to post your stories, ideas and inspirations about cancer, healing, wellness, etc - if you are interested in posting, and have not already been invited to be an author (this allows you to post), please contact Sue at info@morganhillretreats.com.
And if you are inspired to help out with this endeavor, and become part of the Morgan Hill Retreat team, please contact us.
On a final note, I encourage you all to invite wellness into your lives. Begin with a good green drink every day (we suggest Vibrant Health's Field of Greens - easily purchased on www.amazon.com), an exercise routine that you enjoy, and a spiritual practice that inspires you.
Enjoy the last days of summer, and the first of autumn's harvest bounty!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
My Sister.............My Teacher
With 1 week left of a 10 week school holiday I feel a sense of desire to know what I have accomplished these past 9 weeks and how it will move me forward in this journey we call life. The questions are many and most unanswered. My mindfulness reminds me of the process of simply being, of the presence of that pesky ego and of the many doubts I harbor. Where am I going, when, with whom, am I on the right road, is it Gods will and how will I know? After a meditation or prayer session I feel the peace and the desire for extended quiet. I am reminded of my place in this universe and of being other than all of my physicality's, yet I am equally drawn toward the doing of more, of different, of better ideas, plans, suggestions for myself and others. I ponder how to fix, support, change, accomplish and heal. OH MY GOODNESS, here I go again, out of the present and into the past and future.
I come to the ocean, my place of infinite possibilities. Robert Moses State Park (field 3), a beautiful day; quiet, breezy, sunny and tranquil. Perfect! I have had many days here. Some 50 plus years ago I was brought here by my parents on a ferry from Long Island. The bridge yet to be built. In the fall of 2006, I brought my father here shortly before his death. I didn't know then, as he walked toward the ocean and stood alone gazing into the vastness that he was saying goodbye to a place he courted my mother and taught his children to ride the surf. His strength and confidence gone that day. Today, I find it lives inside of me as I sit here remembering the many gifts he shared by loving the ocean as he did.
This summer has been remarkable in ways I seem to dismiss when I focus on tomorrow. The "Angels" helped me to manifest my dream beach house, a vacation I shared with my children and grandson. My son and his wife conceived a child and remained faithful when they were told the pregnancy was at risk. They endured the fear that news provoked and triumphed in the end. Our "butternut" will arrive in the late winter and our family is rejoicing at the glory of God and the miracle this baby has already become.
As August approached I sensed a need to go deeper into my being. I had a desire to establish a practice of self care that would sustain me through the next phase of my life. As I recommitted myself to the practice of yoga on my mat I opened up to the idea of embracing my sister Susan Hayden as my teacher. Susan has been studying mindfulness meditation with her teacher at a monastery in North Carolina. I knew I needed to spend more time in meditation yet I found it increasingly difficult to sit still for any amount of time. I also knew that if I wanted to be true to a healthier life style I needed to take a seriously look at the foods and thoughts I allowed access to my body. Susan had spent the better part of a year establishing Morgan Hill Retreat House. After our fathers death and a near fatal car accident she retreated to her home in the mountains of North Carolina. Her time there brought great healing, insight and a commitment to serve. I asked her to help me, she humbly agreed.
On July 24th (2010) I returned from the beach house and went directly to her home in Bay Shore. It was on her porch that day that we continued on our journey as sisters, friends, student and teacher. My sister has always been a person I adore. As her 8 year senior, I remember the night she was born. I treasure her beautiful being and the uniqueness she has carried with her from the beginning of time. It is an honor to be able to say this and it comes from a place deep inside of me. It has not always been easy for us to be who we desire to be in each others lives. The blessing is that we always return and in each return the gift that is offered is received. As women approaching the 2nd half of live, we have committed to walk together and I know this is Gods will for us.
In many ways Susan has not changed from the generous, courageous, insightful, heart centered 2 year old that danced around our house in her topless bathing suit and cowgirls boots. She entertained us, befriended all she met, stole the hearts of many, brought home the weary, challenged herself to greatness, bore her burdens silently and continued to dream of making a difference. It does not surprise, yet delights me that she travels to those that need her support and healing. Life has taught her much about pain and suffering as well as strength, mercy and rejoicing.
So here we are, on her porch and I am learning about sitting still, honoring my experiences, listening to my body and breathing. We share our thoughts and ideas for what seems like minutes and yet hours have gone by. Being in her presence is timeless. She is honest, forthright, confident, humble and open. She explains to me that we are partners in this journey. She teaches me to listen and trust myself.
Susan traveled back and forth from Long Island to Saratoga to North Carolina all month. We kept in communication often as I shared my experiences of all we were working on together. With her guidance I began to emulsify veggies and fruits and I began to practice mindful mediation. At those moments, and there were some duzzies, when I simply forgot the power to balance my mind by breathing I would call her. Her calm voice instructed me on the steps I need to take in order to change the patterns that were established long ago. Without judgment or impatience she listened. I gathered the courage to be honest and authentic with her and she listened some more. I found myself relaxing and more willing to allow the newness to embrace me. Maybe, just maybe I can let go a bit more? It is similar to the postures I struggle with on the yoga mat. My lack of flexibility on the mat mimics the struggle I have with my mind and emotions. I am slowly learning to trust the breath. Having a teacher in invaluable......having your sister as your teacher is the ultimate blessing.
Today is September 1st. I return to work tomorrow and my "teacher" prepares to return to her home in North Carolina for a more extended period of time. As she renews her vows to herself surrounded by the very nature that brought her wholeness as a child I pray that God blesses her with the knowing the she is exactly where she needs to be, doing the will of our father in heaven.
With deep gratitude and love that you have chosen me as your sister,
Debra
I come to the ocean, my place of infinite possibilities. Robert Moses State Park (field 3), a beautiful day; quiet, breezy, sunny and tranquil. Perfect! I have had many days here. Some 50 plus years ago I was brought here by my parents on a ferry from Long Island. The bridge yet to be built. In the fall of 2006, I brought my father here shortly before his death. I didn't know then, as he walked toward the ocean and stood alone gazing into the vastness that he was saying goodbye to a place he courted my mother and taught his children to ride the surf. His strength and confidence gone that day. Today, I find it lives inside of me as I sit here remembering the many gifts he shared by loving the ocean as he did.
This summer has been remarkable in ways I seem to dismiss when I focus on tomorrow. The "Angels" helped me to manifest my dream beach house, a vacation I shared with my children and grandson. My son and his wife conceived a child and remained faithful when they were told the pregnancy was at risk. They endured the fear that news provoked and triumphed in the end. Our "butternut" will arrive in the late winter and our family is rejoicing at the glory of God and the miracle this baby has already become.
As August approached I sensed a need to go deeper into my being. I had a desire to establish a practice of self care that would sustain me through the next phase of my life. As I recommitted myself to the practice of yoga on my mat I opened up to the idea of embracing my sister Susan Hayden as my teacher. Susan has been studying mindfulness meditation with her teacher at a monastery in North Carolina. I knew I needed to spend more time in meditation yet I found it increasingly difficult to sit still for any amount of time. I also knew that if I wanted to be true to a healthier life style I needed to take a seriously look at the foods and thoughts I allowed access to my body. Susan had spent the better part of a year establishing Morgan Hill Retreat House. After our fathers death and a near fatal car accident she retreated to her home in the mountains of North Carolina. Her time there brought great healing, insight and a commitment to serve. I asked her to help me, she humbly agreed.
On July 24th (2010) I returned from the beach house and went directly to her home in Bay Shore. It was on her porch that day that we continued on our journey as sisters, friends, student and teacher. My sister has always been a person I adore. As her 8 year senior, I remember the night she was born. I treasure her beautiful being and the uniqueness she has carried with her from the beginning of time. It is an honor to be able to say this and it comes from a place deep inside of me. It has not always been easy for us to be who we desire to be in each others lives. The blessing is that we always return and in each return the gift that is offered is received. As women approaching the 2nd half of live, we have committed to walk together and I know this is Gods will for us.
In many ways Susan has not changed from the generous, courageous, insightful, heart centered 2 year old that danced around our house in her topless bathing suit and cowgirls boots. She entertained us, befriended all she met, stole the hearts of many, brought home the weary, challenged herself to greatness, bore her burdens silently and continued to dream of making a difference. It does not surprise, yet delights me that she travels to those that need her support and healing. Life has taught her much about pain and suffering as well as strength, mercy and rejoicing.
So here we are, on her porch and I am learning about sitting still, honoring my experiences, listening to my body and breathing. We share our thoughts and ideas for what seems like minutes and yet hours have gone by. Being in her presence is timeless. She is honest, forthright, confident, humble and open. She explains to me that we are partners in this journey. She teaches me to listen and trust myself.
Susan traveled back and forth from Long Island to Saratoga to North Carolina all month. We kept in communication often as I shared my experiences of all we were working on together. With her guidance I began to emulsify veggies and fruits and I began to practice mindful mediation. At those moments, and there were some duzzies, when I simply forgot the power to balance my mind by breathing I would call her. Her calm voice instructed me on the steps I need to take in order to change the patterns that were established long ago. Without judgment or impatience she listened. I gathered the courage to be honest and authentic with her and she listened some more. I found myself relaxing and more willing to allow the newness to embrace me. Maybe, just maybe I can let go a bit more? It is similar to the postures I struggle with on the yoga mat. My lack of flexibility on the mat mimics the struggle I have with my mind and emotions. I am slowly learning to trust the breath. Having a teacher in invaluable......having your sister as your teacher is the ultimate blessing.
Today is September 1st. I return to work tomorrow and my "teacher" prepares to return to her home in North Carolina for a more extended period of time. As she renews her vows to herself surrounded by the very nature that brought her wholeness as a child I pray that God blesses her with the knowing the she is exactly where she needs to be, doing the will of our father in heaven.
With deep gratitude and love that you have chosen me as your sister,
Debra
Saturday, August 28, 2010
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Breast Cyst, Reiki & Super Green Drinks
I want to first and foremost want to thank Sue for her time, healing and advice. She is a gifted and perceptive healer, and I am grateful to have her help!
Secondly, I want to introduce myself; my name is Terri Balog, and I am a NYS licensed massage therapist. I look forward to posting more information to this blog, and supporting Sue and the Morgan Hill Retreat.
Back in June, I went to my doctor's for a routine physical and discovered I had a large cyst on my right breast. To be certain it was benign, I followed up with a sonogram, and discovered that it was indeed a fluid-filled cyst, and thankfully non-cancerous. The recommended treatment was aspiration - injecting a needle into the breast, and draining out the fluid.
Upon doing some research I discovered that not only is aspiration invasive but there would be no guarantee the cyst would not return so I opted to look for alternatives. In the meantime, the cyst continued to grow larger until it was visible below the skin, and my skin had become red and swollen.
I discussed my situation with Sue, who is a certified Reiki Master, and she suggested daily reiki treatments, and an addition to my diet - a super green drink. She graciously offered to come and stay with me for a few days to administer reiki treatments, and to help put together a "green" drink that I was to drink once or twice a day.
After just a day of reiki treatments (twice a day for about 10 minutes), and drinking my green drink twice a day, the cyst was smaller. The redness was gone, and the cyst was no longer visible. After three days, the cyst appeared to be nearly gone.
After leaving me, Sue continued to do distance reiki on me, and I continued my green drink. After about a week, I could not feel the cyst at all. Wanting to document this healing, I made my annual mammogram appointment, and went to get verification that the cyst was no longer there. I am happy to report that the cyst is indeed gone!
I believe that the combination of the reiki healing, and drinking the powerful green food drink, was important. Reiki healing is a natural therapy that gently balances life energies, and brings health and well being to the recipient. Reiki healing can help with acute and chronic problems, as it did with my cyst. And below is an excerpt from an online article on a website called http://www.stomachcancersymptoms.net/ about super green foods:
Green foods have recently become a focus of modern natural health practices across the United States. Juice bars and natural health food markets boost smoothies with spirulina, vegetable juices with chlorella, and power shots of wheatgrass. Naturopaths have been known to prescribe super green foods to aid in the treatment of diseases ranging from asthma, to HIV, to lupus. While the incredibly rich mossy color of these supplements don't always look appealing, just how good they are for you may prove surprising.
One pound of wheatgrass is the nutritional equivalent of 25 lbs. of quality vegetables. Blue-green algaes, such as spirulina, have not only high levels of vitamins and minerals, but, pound-for-pound, more protein than meat or soybeans, adn in laboratory tests, have proven instrumental in increasing the survival rate of cancer-infected mice.
Please feel free to ask any questions, or to share any similar experiences you may have had!
Secondly, I want to introduce myself; my name is Terri Balog, and I am a NYS licensed massage therapist. I look forward to posting more information to this blog, and supporting Sue and the Morgan Hill Retreat.
Back in June, I went to my doctor's for a routine physical and discovered I had a large cyst on my right breast. To be certain it was benign, I followed up with a sonogram, and discovered that it was indeed a fluid-filled cyst, and thankfully non-cancerous. The recommended treatment was aspiration - injecting a needle into the breast, and draining out the fluid.
Upon doing some research I discovered that not only is aspiration invasive but there would be no guarantee the cyst would not return so I opted to look for alternatives. In the meantime, the cyst continued to grow larger until it was visible below the skin, and my skin had become red and swollen.
I discussed my situation with Sue, who is a certified Reiki Master, and she suggested daily reiki treatments, and an addition to my diet - a super green drink. She graciously offered to come and stay with me for a few days to administer reiki treatments, and to help put together a "green" drink that I was to drink once or twice a day.
After just a day of reiki treatments (twice a day for about 10 minutes), and drinking my green drink twice a day, the cyst was smaller. The redness was gone, and the cyst was no longer visible. After three days, the cyst appeared to be nearly gone.
After leaving me, Sue continued to do distance reiki on me, and I continued my green drink. After about a week, I could not feel the cyst at all. Wanting to document this healing, I made my annual mammogram appointment, and went to get verification that the cyst was no longer there. I am happy to report that the cyst is indeed gone!
I believe that the combination of the reiki healing, and drinking the powerful green food drink, was important. Reiki healing is a natural therapy that gently balances life energies, and brings health and well being to the recipient. Reiki healing can help with acute and chronic problems, as it did with my cyst. And below is an excerpt from an online article on a website called http://www.stomachcancersymptoms.net/ about super green foods:
Green foods have recently become a focus of modern natural health practices across the United States. Juice bars and natural health food markets boost smoothies with spirulina, vegetable juices with chlorella, and power shots of wheatgrass. Naturopaths have been known to prescribe super green foods to aid in the treatment of diseases ranging from asthma, to HIV, to lupus. While the incredibly rich mossy color of these supplements don't always look appealing, just how good they are for you may prove surprising.
One pound of wheatgrass is the nutritional equivalent of 25 lbs. of quality vegetables. Blue-green algaes, such as spirulina, have not only high levels of vitamins and minerals, but, pound-for-pound, more protein than meat or soybeans, adn in laboratory tests, have proven instrumental in increasing the survival rate of cancer-infected mice.
Please feel free to ask any questions, or to share any similar experiences you may have had!
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Healers need healing too
No matter how healthy your habits and health may be healing and quiet is needed.
I spent a few days in NC meditating with Bhante U Jotika a Theravada Buddhist Monk from Burma.
A perfect opportunity for insight and peace.
Many thanks to Bhante and Suzanne for their generosity of home and wisdom.
Horses are coming to the Morgan House along with Rodeo Pro Nathan Best. Together we hope to design a therapeutic horse experience into the retreat house.
I am returning Sunday July 25 to begin the sanding and priming of the healing space on the ground floor.
Then to Omega on the 30th for a workshop in starting a holistic not for profit- I hope there is a lot of info on writing business plans and grants!
I spent a few days in NC meditating with Bhante U Jotika a Theravada Buddhist Monk from Burma.
A perfect opportunity for insight and peace.
Many thanks to Bhante and Suzanne for their generosity of home and wisdom.
Horses are coming to the Morgan House along with Rodeo Pro Nathan Best. Together we hope to design a therapeutic horse experience into the retreat house.
I am returning Sunday July 25 to begin the sanding and priming of the healing space on the ground floor.
Then to Omega on the 30th for a workshop in starting a holistic not for profit- I hope there is a lot of info on writing business plans and grants!
Saturday, June 26, 2010
On the road.....
Annie ( faithful canine companion) and I have been traveling to Long Island and upstate New York to do Reiki work with persons either terminally ill or struggling in some other fashion. The work is on a donation basis so clients are asked to visit the site www.mountainreiki.org for their support of service.
I have traveled a few thousand miles already and have established clients in Saratoga, New York and Long Island, New York. My next destination is Florida to stay with a woman diagnosed with leukemia.
During the visit I will help her design a diet that is pleasant to the palette and helpful to her body.
It is unfortunate that a common side affect of chemotherapy is the altering or loss of taste. The lack of pleasure in eating promotes a carelessness about the fuel put into an already strained body making the work needed for white blood cell production among many other critically needed functions difficult.
I have also observed a common theme among some of the family members to treat the ill member as if nothing is wrong. This seemed odd at first until I remembered that denial is a family disease and a common mechanism for coping. The unfortunate result is the negligence of a much needed proactive change in diet and habits. The person undergoing chemo or radiation is often depleted of the energy required for "up spirits" motivation or energy to research, shop or cook, no less clean and deal with what feels like mundane day to day drama. However, whether due to guilt, fear or their own denial the cancer patient falls in line with the role the family creates regardless of the impact on their recovery.
Shockingly I have seen family members encourage a drink, a cigarette and a meal at a fast food restaurant to the chemo patient. The absurdity of these acts in light of the circumstances might make you think the family is thoughtless and unloving and in a sense you would be right however, the culprit is denial yet again.
In my visits to the patient I also work with the family and the purpose is to discuss the spiritual, emotional and psychological aspects of what's going on within each person. No healing work can have any lasting benefit if patterns of dysfunction reign, not for the patient or the family
I chose terminally ill diagnosed persons and 12 step recovery people for one simple reason, the potential willingness to make life altering changes needed to heal the soul, body and mind requires a force of great magnitude. I believed diagnosis with a terminal illness is one such condition needed for a spiritual awakening. I am witnessing however that our western medical approach puts little if any value on the condition of the mind and spirit. Those in the medical profession that I have met with that proclaim their belief in the body mind spirit paradigm seem only to carry a prescription pad in their lab coat pocket and not a comprehensive list of professionals in the holistic healing, counseling or spiritual fields.
I have traveled a few thousand miles already and have established clients in Saratoga, New York and Long Island, New York. My next destination is Florida to stay with a woman diagnosed with leukemia.
During the visit I will help her design a diet that is pleasant to the palette and helpful to her body.
It is unfortunate that a common side affect of chemotherapy is the altering or loss of taste. The lack of pleasure in eating promotes a carelessness about the fuel put into an already strained body making the work needed for white blood cell production among many other critically needed functions difficult.
I have also observed a common theme among some of the family members to treat the ill member as if nothing is wrong. This seemed odd at first until I remembered that denial is a family disease and a common mechanism for coping. The unfortunate result is the negligence of a much needed proactive change in diet and habits. The person undergoing chemo or radiation is often depleted of the energy required for "up spirits" motivation or energy to research, shop or cook, no less clean and deal with what feels like mundane day to day drama. However, whether due to guilt, fear or their own denial the cancer patient falls in line with the role the family creates regardless of the impact on their recovery.
Shockingly I have seen family members encourage a drink, a cigarette and a meal at a fast food restaurant to the chemo patient. The absurdity of these acts in light of the circumstances might make you think the family is thoughtless and unloving and in a sense you would be right however, the culprit is denial yet again.
In my visits to the patient I also work with the family and the purpose is to discuss the spiritual, emotional and psychological aspects of what's going on within each person. No healing work can have any lasting benefit if patterns of dysfunction reign, not for the patient or the family
I chose terminally ill diagnosed persons and 12 step recovery people for one simple reason, the potential willingness to make life altering changes needed to heal the soul, body and mind requires a force of great magnitude. I believed diagnosis with a terminal illness is one such condition needed for a spiritual awakening. I am witnessing however that our western medical approach puts little if any value on the condition of the mind and spirit. Those in the medical profession that I have met with that proclaim their belief in the body mind spirit paradigm seem only to carry a prescription pad in their lab coat pocket and not a comprehensive list of professionals in the holistic healing, counseling or spiritual fields.
Healing Space
The Healing space is awaiting painting, a shower floor and shower doors, yahoo!
The septic issue has been looked at by a plumber and it seems the work needed to bring the natural spring water house back into operation is financially feasible. The work will commence after the summer season when I return from the road.
The septic issue has been looked at by a plumber and it seems the work needed to bring the natural spring water house back into operation is financially feasible. The work will commence after the summer season when I return from the road.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
The Healing Space is almost done!
The journey of a thousand miles begins with the first slow and painful steps.
Construction of the healing center where Reiki, Counseling and Massage for our guest is almost complete!
This has been a long and costly process, a thousand thanks to our valued benefactors Allison Boyd for her generous heart, deep compassion.
There is still so much to do and much time, effort and money needed to do it.
This Saturday at the Morgan Retreat House will be a dinner for those and with those interested and able in contributing to the creation, development and pursuit of this healing place if you are interested please join us. You can email me at info@morganhillretreats.com for details.
Next items on the “to do” list is another visit from the County Health Department to evaluate our alternative water source as a solution to digging a new septic, next week (keep your fingers crossed)
On July 29, I will be attending a class at Omega Institute entitled Developing a Holistic Learning Center or Wellness-Related Business
For more information visit www.eomega.org
Construction of the healing center where Reiki, Counseling and Massage for our guest is almost complete!
This has been a long and costly process, a thousand thanks to our valued benefactors Allison Boyd for her generous heart, deep compassion.
There is still so much to do and much time, effort and money needed to do it.
This Saturday at the Morgan Retreat House will be a dinner for those and with those interested and able in contributing to the creation, development and pursuit of this healing place if you are interested please join us. You can email me at info@morganhillretreats.com for details.
Next items on the “to do” list is another visit from the County Health Department to evaluate our alternative water source as a solution to digging a new septic, next week (keep your fingers crossed)
On July 29, I will be attending a class at Omega Institute entitled Developing a Holistic Learning Center or Wellness-Related Business
For more information visit www.eomega.org
Friday, April 9, 2010
The C- Word
Cloud Cottage and CarePartners Hospice fundraiser this coming Sunday April 11 at Jubilee! at 47 Wall Street in Asheville, beginning with a silent auction with some awesome items at 2:00, a one-woman show by Barbara Bates Smith, The C-Word, a Life Meets Art Cancer Experience at 3:00, and the four-person expert panel for Q&A to follow. Barbara says the C-Word turns out to be Compassion. If you are coming to help set up, please arrive at 1:00.
Follow the link above to schedule and scroll down to description of this Sundays event.
Follow the link above to schedule and scroll down to description of this Sundays event.
The Health Department
Well, the Health Department came to inspect the house all is well except for the septic tank which needs to be moved 15 feet further form the water pump.
Work to get the funds needed is underway this is a costly endeavor, my resolve is strong.
Many have come forward with great enthusiasm and support for this undertaking.
Work to get the funds needed is underway this is a costly endeavor, my resolve is strong.
Many have come forward with great enthusiasm and support for this undertaking.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
Out of darkness and into the light
This is the beginning of an inspiration that came to me while visiting my mother at her winter home in Saint Martin’s.
The changes happening in the economy have been like an earthquake, changing the landscape and boundaries of my world and so many other peoples.
It was during this period of forced deconstruction that I began to re-evaluate what and where I wanted to put my efforts for the future.
It has been a shocking awakening to realize that financial achievement though enjoyable is not necessarily fulfilling. My time over the last many years has been focused as many red blooded capitalist American in the direction of the acquisition of wealth and security. I was not always so driven but in the absence of faith in my spiritual interests providing a living or even being a legitimate form of self sufficiency I pursued the world of finance. A world built on sand.
After the collapse of the economy I found myself owning a company on a collision course for disaster. All my efforts to re assert myself into finance and the real estate industry where met with opposition from a voice deep within “It is time for something new, something more in line with my nature”.
So it was that I sat with my mother of 76 discussing what I would like to do, what I would like with all authentic sincerity to pursue.
I have begun the process of converting my beautiful home in Asheville North Carolina into a Family Retreat for those living with cancer and a healing bed and Breakfast for those seeking respite and tools for a more fulfilling life.
I am using this blog as a way to track my progress in research of cancer causes, prevention and treatment, both traditional and nontraditional (holistic) eastern and western.
This is day 10
The changes happening in the economy have been like an earthquake, changing the landscape and boundaries of my world and so many other peoples.
It was during this period of forced deconstruction that I began to re-evaluate what and where I wanted to put my efforts for the future.
It has been a shocking awakening to realize that financial achievement though enjoyable is not necessarily fulfilling. My time over the last many years has been focused as many red blooded capitalist American in the direction of the acquisition of wealth and security. I was not always so driven but in the absence of faith in my spiritual interests providing a living or even being a legitimate form of self sufficiency I pursued the world of finance. A world built on sand.
After the collapse of the economy I found myself owning a company on a collision course for disaster. All my efforts to re assert myself into finance and the real estate industry where met with opposition from a voice deep within “It is time for something new, something more in line with my nature”.
So it was that I sat with my mother of 76 discussing what I would like to do, what I would like with all authentic sincerity to pursue.
I have begun the process of converting my beautiful home in Asheville North Carolina into a Family Retreat for those living with cancer and a healing bed and Breakfast for those seeking respite and tools for a more fulfilling life.
I am using this blog as a way to track my progress in research of cancer causes, prevention and treatment, both traditional and nontraditional (holistic) eastern and western.
This is day 10
March 4, 2010 - Politics and Nutrition
In the hours following the first post I have been overwhelmed with support, suggestions and referrals, thank you!
Today’s task are varied and range from searching for a septic tank survey for the Health Department to preparing a menu that provides the nutritional ingredients recommended while not tasting like cardboard. Difficult tasks since most Americans are accustomed to processed food and consider French fries and the sliced tomato and lettuce on a Big Mac as a nutritious meal.
The first culinary goal is to include ingredients that increase immunity since those receiving traditional treatments are stripping their body of its ability to fight infection
I will keep you posted
Today’s task are varied and range from searching for a septic tank survey for the Health Department to preparing a menu that provides the nutritional ingredients recommended while not tasting like cardboard. Difficult tasks since most Americans are accustomed to processed food and consider French fries and the sliced tomato and lettuce on a Big Mac as a nutritious meal.
The first culinary goal is to include ingredients that increase immunity since those receiving traditional treatments are stripping their body of its ability to fight infection
I will keep you posted
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