Anne LaMantia

Best Retreat in Portland, Oregon

February 6, 2017September 22, 2017Leave a comment

I had the opportunity to travel to Portland, Oregon in the Spring of 2016. I went there for a retreat for 5 days with a beautiful community of people. It was a retreat given by Matt Kahn and Julie Dittmar. I have been following Julie and Matt for several years now. They are spiritual teachers whose humor and grace will capture you unwillingly. I felt totally loved and nurtured the entire time I was there. Not only by Julie and Matt but everyone at the conference. My barriers came down whether I liked it or not. I also felt I was in a safe place to allow my emotions to surface. Imagine being in the company of 330 or more people! Knowing that the person sitting next to me was probably going through the same thing I was gave me such relief and comfort. By day 5 I was lighter, happier, confident and radiant. Would I do it again? Absolutely! I have been to a lot of retreats and I would say this was one of my favorites.

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The retreat was held at the “World Forestry Center” in Portland Oregon. I was captivated by the beautiful trees which surrounded the center. It was a hop skip and a jump from where I stayed. I stayed at the Marriott Center in downtown Portland. I was surprised of the short distance from the Marriott to the Forestery Center. I took the Max Light Rail Terminal. It was less than a 10 minute walk from the Marriott to the terminal. Food in downtown Portland was delicious and fresh. I don’t remember the names of the places I ate at but I can reassure you it was delicious. One of my favorite dishes was a blend of rice, vegetables and sauce ( I wish I remembered the name of this place). I ate there more than once and I found it soothing on my digestive tract. The breakfast at the Marriott was good and the staff was very accommodating. Can it get any better than eating breakfast and viewing Mound Hood. I found Portland to be very clean and nourishing. I was surprised of the amount of homeless people. On my last day I was gifted with meeting several homeless people. It’s hard to put into words how I felt. My heart cracked open and I found the 2 men to be very wise souls. Looks can be deceptive! If you ever have the opportunity to travel I would highly recommend Portland, Oregon. There was nothing I did not like about it!

Cilantro; Removes Toxic Heavy Metals!

January 8, 2017August 15, 20181 Comment

I have been surprised to find out that there is a food that removes heavy metals and toxins. Not one of us is exempt of having heavy metals in our systems, particularly the liver. Heavy metals come in the form of aluminum, nickel and copper. Just imagine over a life time drinking soda out of a can or eating foods from an aluminum can. Also the apparatus we use to cook and serve food. The list goes on and on. I was elated to know there is a way to rid these chemicals from our bodies.

What is Cilantro? It is an Herb and is also called coriander and Chinese parsley.

Benefits of eating Cilantro:

1. Detoxifys the brain.

2. Extracts heavy metals, toxins from body systems and organs, in particular the liver.

3. Supports the Adrenals.

4. Balance blood glucose levels.

5. Helps with memory issues, brain fog.

6. Anti-viral, Anti-bacterial.

7. Supports chronic or undiagnosed illness.

8. Many other benefits.

* Anthony William a best selling author has written a book called: Life-Changing Foods. IfMM your interested in a in-depth description of this go to his book and read about Cilantro.

According to Anthony William living water comes from its stems and leaves of cilantro. It passes the Blood-Brain- Barrier and in the living water are minerals called, potassium, sodium and chloride and are bound to potent phytochemicals. These salts travel all throughout the body. They bind to amino acids forming neurotransmitters. Phytochemicals are responsible for removing Toxic Heavy Metals from the brain .

Foods to eat with Cilantro:

-Guacamole

-My favorite shake: 1 handful of Cilantro

1 Cup of Wildblueberries

1 Banana

Orange Juice

-Works for any salad

– Used as a garnish for any vegetable or meat.

Traveling Abroad, England, Ireland & Scotland

October 12, 2016September 22, 2017Leave a comment

Recently I had the opportunity to travel to the UK and Northern Ireland with a group of wonderful people from the East Coast on a Tour with CIE. I hesitated doing a tour knowing how much I like to be in control…but knowing I did not have to make any arrangements such as booking hotels and places to visit was a big relief. My 2 week agenda was all taken care of and so was my breakfast and dinners.

Our first stop was in London! I had the opportunity to ride on a Panoramic Bus to visit famous landmarks in Central London. Taking pictures was not a problem because of this. What I liked most about this City Tour was the history and the buildings dating back to the 1080’s. I was awestruck! My favorite sight was the “Tower of London” ~ The Tower was started in the early 1080’s by William the Conqueror. As time went on Palace buildings were being added into the 16th century. Check out the picture below and know that is only a snapshot of the enormity of it. Over the years so much went on in the castle such as keeping prisoners, executions of 3 english Queens , Coins were made there for England and so much more. I definitely would go back for their was so much I did not see.

“Tower of London”

Our tour came to a close in Liverpool, England where Paul McCartney and John Lennon lived. We were able to tour their homes AND Penny Lane is a real Street.

I was surprised that we ate the same food for breakfast in England, Ireland and Scotland. Sausage, bacon, eggs, bread and baked beans were the staple items. I loved the Irish Stew in Ireland and skipped out on “Haggis” in Scotland. Hotels and accommodations were excellent. Everything ran so smoothly. There was not one hiccup. If your itching to go “Just Do It”.

Scotland was one of my favorite places in the UK. The mountains, villages, Castles and hills are something to marvel at. It really is as beautiful as it looks on television. A second trip is on my agenda. Ireland was beautiful as well. There was no place where I did not see beauty! The Cliffs of Moher will put you in “awe” and the grounds where the Blarney Castle nestles was jaw dropping. Ireland really is an historic place. History goes back to the Roman times and the Castles are still standing. I would go back just to visit the Castles in a heartbeat.

“The Cliffs of Moher”

Living Your Authentic Truth

August 23, 2016September 22, 2017Leave a comment

It is not a straight road to be authentic. In fact there has been many of twists and turns along the way. We live in a world where we are shunned or rejected when we speak from the heart. I have learned it is not about fixing, healing or changing myself. This only creates frustration. My blueprint for authenticity is…. Being radically honest with myself and others. It began with food choices. I realized what I really wanted was water instead of coffee. I believe it was the the taste of coffee I was addicted to. As I learned to honor my food choices I realized where I was not honoring other areas of my life. The word ” Integrity” came to mind. I was aligning myself with people, places and scenarios which did not serve me.. I wanted to be liked. I was a people pleaser. I had to stand up for myself and say “NO”. “True to thine own self.”

The ingredients to being authentic also include: Commitment, Courage, and Perseverance. There have been many times when I considered myself a “failure” but I would not let that define me it is only a part of me. I had to learn to make friends with my EGO and see it for what it was. I have learned and I am still learning to turn my attention toward what is true and right for me. I call that my inner knowing. I learned how to set myself straight and that required Courage. Courage to blaze my own trail. The courage to know what gave me joy, ease and grace. I believe I was such a people pleaser to the extent that I let other peoples needs come before mine. I considered myself selfish when in fact it is the opposite. I am learning to embrace what I love and when I do that I feel Joy! In fact it is as simple as laughing whole heartily. Imagine the implications it has on the people around you. When you shift your energy you shift your life. It is the small things in life that matter the most. It’s not about going to a third world country to feed the hungry.

When Fear arises let it. When Anger arises let it. When Sadness arises let it. The opposite of resistance is allowing. You would have considered me the “resistance queen”, I resisted everything in life. Why? I was afraid. I was afraid to make a mistake, to be judged, to be vulnerable. I finally had to make the decision to be myself. As I allowed myself to feel I started to feel healthier and started to accept myself. My confidence muscle was growing. I was less afraid to speak up for rejection of what others may say. It wasn’t about changing myself or anyone else but being okay for what is presenting itself in any given moment.

A wise friend once told me we are more alike than different.

Be the change!

What is Body/Mind Integration?

August 14, 2016September 22, 2017Leave a comment

starts-with-you I truly believe I am beginning to understand the meaning of “Body/Mind” Integration. Being peaceful & grateful is essential in my daily living circumstances. It has been a gradual process. Let me explain:

You may ask what got me to this place? Commitment, letting go of drama, and noticing how I respond to triggers.

Letting go of drama involves allowing life to play out without getting involved in other peoples situations and at the same time being a good listener. We as human beings “feel” better when we seemingly fix other peoples problems. I know that I do not want anyone to fix me or tell me what is best. Letting go of drama also includes letting go of our stories, ie. past hurts, regrets and gossip. To notice what you are noticing without judgement.

Triggers: We all get triggered by events and situations. It’s important to notice when one blames another for a perceived misfortune. This is what I experience when I have been triggered. 1. Somatic response to a situation, i.e.. gut feeling or feeling heavy. Most of the time it is a emotional response to a situation such as hurt, anger, sadness, and fear. Integration occurs when one allows the emotion to surface through completion. The key is to notice the emotion as best as you can without judgement, and breathe and allow. Sometimes a memory will “trigger” an emotion. When this happens I immediately try to micromanage it which only creates frustration. I have also “distracted myself” from feeling. i.e. going to the fridge, stifling it etc. Most of the time it has nothing to do with what is happening in the moment.

An opening occurs when we allow the emotions to cascade through our bodies. The more I STOP, SLOW DOWN and BREATHE without judging myself the more grace and ease I feel. Remember ~ not to take yourself seriously. Run towards yourself not away from yourself. Someone once told me being “uncomfortable” is your greatest teacher. If you feel scared or unsafe do what is necessary. It can be scary in the beginning especially if your not used to it. Call a friend, go for a walk. Triggers are fantastic and it is a gateway to one’s evolution. So trigger away!

Posted on May 7, 2016 by Anne Lamantia

Love Is Letting Go Of Your Children …

August 14, 2016September 22, 2017Leave a comment

I’m IMG_5088-1-300x225 53 and I cannot believe I am at this place again! Being “needy” so my children will love me. Bah humbug! I know my children love me so what is the issue? I remember after I had my first child my Mother was visiting and I noticed how much she wanted to be loved by me when I already inherently loved her. It felt like I was being suffocated. As I traced the thread back this started since the time I was born.

I swore up and down that I would never be like this! Wrong! Wanting to be loved at all costs. Yes, this is hard to admit. Now the declaration is to take conscious action. I started to notice I don’t say “No” when I need to out of fear I won’t be liked. i.e.. my daughter asked for money for the hundredth time when I clearly knew I needed to say “No” but I gave it to her anyway.

I know fixing a situation even with money is not empowering. My gut never lies. The only person I am in charge of is myself. Yep, our children are not ours they belong to God!

Posted on February 12, 2016 by Anne Lamantia

What is Prayer?

August 14, 2016September 22, 2017Leave a comment

I was raised Roman Catholic and for many years prayed the rosary and went to Church every Sunday and raised my children Catholic. My questioning began when my children were small and would refuse to go to Church. What really caught my attention was when my son ~ Michael did not want to make his confirmation. This is when I started IMG_0132-300x200 questioning God and prayer.

Today I realize that prayer is just as simple as saying “I love you,” “Thank You,” and more importantly loving whatever arises within me. Loving whatever arises within me has not been easy due to the fact I have been conditioned with the labels of “right and wrong.” It has been a longstanding pattern and when I fall into my labels I begin questioning “Is this true?” This helps disrupt the pattern. A wise person once told me “everything is God.” That was an eyeopener and very freeing! This lifted a great burden off of me and gave me permission to accept the greater version of myself. Freeing in the sense that every thought and emotion that arose within me was okay and that this happens with everyone. We are human after all! Being with my emotions altogether is a different animal! One thing I know for sure is I am more willing to allow my emotions to surface. Emoting has freed up space within me. I feel less depressed, compressed and stagnated. I feel more alive! It is as if weight has fallen right off of me. I am so happy to have discovered this within me and my hope is we all can do this for ourselves.

Posted on January 21, 2016 by Anne Lamantia

I Did A 21 Day Cleanse And lost 10 lbs. Here’s What I Learned

August 14, 2016September 22, 2017Leave a comment

I gave up all my vices – Coffee, Alcohol, Gluten, Sugar, Dairy And Meat for 21 days! I did this because I wanted to lose weight and feel better. I also needed to eat differently but I did not know where to be IMG_0082-300x200 gin. A friend told me about Dr. Junger’s 21 day cleanse and I decided to give it a go. I liked the idea that he was a Doctor and had written a cookbook called “Clean Eats” and I was curious to see if I had any food sensitivities.

Not eating after 8 at night I must admit was the hardest part along with omitting coffee and cheese. I’m usually “not going by the rules” kind of person but I was curious to see what the results would be when I was finished. Low and behold I was blown away with my experience.

Here’s what I learned:

1. My Bloating went away.

For as long as I can remember I have always had a bloated stomach. After 1 week I did not have a bloated stomach and my digestive tract felt cleaner and healthier. After the 21 Day I re-introduced Gluten back into my diet and I became bloated and “gassy.” That is proof in the pudding!

2. At night I felt at ease and slept better.

Having a nursing background I have always known that the body needs rest and nourishment during the sleep cycle and the digestive tract needs a rest from breaking down food. Having that 12 hour period without food was quiet time for my body and my body was not hyped up from caffeine, sugar or alcohol. I also felt keeping a clean diet was effective of not having my system raise havoc. I also woke up feeling like I had a good night’s rest.

3. I pooped every day!

Need I say more.

4. I became more conscious of what I put into my mouth!

It forced me to be attentive to what I was buying and what nutritional value the food had. You would be amazed what sources of food has protein in it. It was also important to note how I felt after I ate certain foods. I felt much lighter overall and my digestive tract did not have to work as hard.

5. Brain fog went by the wayside.

My thoughts were clearer and I was less anxious.

6. My mood was brighter and my Central Nervous System was more at ease.

I’m attributing my calmness to no sugar, caffeine and who knows no gluten and dairy. I remember a week after I came off the cleanse I had a can of ginger ale and instantaneously I felt exhausted and my brain was in a fog. The first week of the cleanse “I was fit to be tied” and after that I felt more even keeled.

7. Put me on tract for a “better eating cycle”

I decided that my health was important to me and taking the time to investigate my eating choices was worth it to me. After 21 days I was more mindful of what I put in my mouth and how my body reacted to the food. IT was as if I broke an old habit and began a new one. I was making conscious choices and stayed on an eating schedule.

8. I became more Confident and looked better.

Doing something for myself and feeling healthier and lighter gave me a boost of confidence. Friends would ask what have I done differently and wanted information about this cleanse.

9. I loved my juices, smoothies and food choices!

The receipes are endless with this cleanse.

10. You don’t need to sign up and do his protocol (unless you find it helpful). I just got his information off line and did it on my own.

11. Your worth it!

Proper nutrition is important for your well-being.

12. Yes, you still can have dessert!

I love desert and that has always been the hardest part for me until I started experimenting with other options such as gluten free, whole foods and different replacements for sugar.

13. When you make conscious choices your life always improves.

With love, Anne

Posted on January 21, 2016 by Anne Lamantia

How To Keep The Heart Open!

August 14, 2016September 22, 2017Leave a comment

Why Do We Close our Hearts?

I can only speak from direct experience. First I would say that we are not brought up with the tools to keep an open heart. It is not something my parents taught me or I was taught in school. I’ve heard many times just open your heart ~ Well what the heck does that mean? At that point I became curious and I began noticing what I noticed. I noticed I would n IMG_0155-300x200 ot feel my emotions ~ for example my anger, sadness or grief, and I felt ill-equipped. I began to notice there was this heaviness I accumulated in my body and I believe it was because I did not process my own pain. As time went on I began to get in touch with my anger, sadness, hurt and fear. As I began to get in touch with these aspects I began to feel lighter and to my amazement less depressed. Oh here is another big one for me! I also noticed when I interacted with others I was too involved with their stories. Over the last 5 years I have been willing to acknowledge my feelings and as I do I unravel.

How to open your heart!

1. It has taken a lot of courage and trust to do this. A willingness to open to life and feel. It takes time and patience and a willingness to meet life from a brand new platform. It takes baby steps to put something new into motion. We all have our patterns so be gentle with the self.

2. If you have heard of that saying it takes a village to bring up a child I believe there is a lot of truth to that. Find support, people who are honest and who will empower you. Don’t take No for an answer. We are more alike than different. As mother Theresa says “do good anyways.”

3. I believe authenticity is vital to our well=being. It is so easy to get caught in societal roles and responsibility. when we are missing the point of just being ourselves.

4. Find something in your life to be grateful for. Make a list everyday. It takes time to change patterns.

5. Love on your pets!

6. Do good for someone in need!

7. Prioritze yourself. Spend an hour every day to nuture your spirit.

8. Walk away from people who drag you down.

9. If it does not feel good do not do it. The same goes for food choices.

10. Get out in nature.

11. Never go to bed angry.

12. Do more listening than talking.

13. Listen to your intuition.

14. Say I am sorry and as Mother Theresa has said, “forgive them anyway!”

Posted on November 1, 2015 by Anne Lamantia

What to Eat Instead of Meat to get Protein?

August 14, 2016September 22, 2017Leave a comment

I don’t know about you but I am constantly wondering what to eat as a protein substitute for meat. I used to eat a lot of meat. Probably 3-4 times a week. I no longer have an appetite for meat. I just no longer crave it like I used to. Pistachio-Pesto-crusted-salmon1-0693-300x200

Protein is a necessary building block to our body. Our cells are constantly dying and re-building and protein helps rebuild and re-energize us.

These are the foods I have found to be a good source of protein other than meat: Fish, cheese, tofu, beans, yogurt (greek has more protein than other yogurts), seeds.

https://annelamantia.wordpress.com

Posted on September 8, 2015 by Anne Lamantia