Health – Anne LaMantia

How a “Boating” accident impacted my family!

January 23, 2018Leave a comment

I was in an boating accident on the weekend of July 4th, 2017. In my wildest dreams I never thought this would happen to me, worse yet my entire family (except my son). My children are in their 20’s. Intuition is powerful ~ When I stepped on the boat I had a feeling to not go on the boat ride but my stubbornness overrode this feeling.

We came upon a boat that needed towing. I immediately said “yes” which is not like me. I sat at the tip of the boat with 2 of Megan’s (my daughter) friends. We threw a line to the boat and it was probably 3 minutes into the tow when myself and the 2 other gals had a premonition something was about to happen! …and out of the blue “my husband says they are going to hit us.” I looked up and saw a boat headed straight towards us. No time to think or do anything. They hit the right side of our boat where my husband was driving and ripped out the right side of our boat. Thankfully we all survived.

We stood there in disarray for a moment and it was completely quite. The windshield on the right and left side of the boat was shattered in very small pieces and my thought was. .. oh know someone died! I began to panic as I saw blood on myself and some of the others. My eyes were open but I did not want to see. I did a head check and everyone was accounted for. I saw Megan’s friend crying and she wanted to get out of the boat. Yep, I felt responsible for everyone! Always a mother! I was scared due to the fact I did not know if someone got injured very badly. Everyone was scared, in shock and crying, even my husband who never shows his feelings. I was confused because the boat that hit us stayed at bay and did not even offer to help. Eventually someone did come to help and got the girls who were crying off the boat and towed us into land. Grateful there was no injures to the boat we were towing but one quick look I could see that they were also in shock.

When I arrived on land I was very grateful and was relieved I was no longer on the boat. From what I saw everyone had that feeling! I felt powerless due to the fact I saw my daughter crying and some of her friends. I felt sad that we had this experience. What I noticed within myself is that I could not form a sentence. I did this for a few days. Fear, and anger was my best friend. It was hard to comprehend what had happened.

Several of us went to the hospital and everything was okay. What kept going through my mind was how precious life is and it could be gone in an instant! I also realized none of us were meant to die.

On the way back to my Lake House I was scared that we were going to get in a car accident and my daughter’s felt like that too. When I arrived back to the house we were humbled, frightened and grateful for this experience. It’s been 6 months and yesterday I finally (6 months later) I went to the Lake House and I was glad I did cuz I cried and cried the fears and emotions of what had happened came barreling in. I had no idea of the amount of fear I carried around with me for 6 months. that I had that was crippling me until I came face to fa

Benefits of Yoga Nidra

January 6, 2018January 6, 2018Leave a comment

What is Yoga Nidra? It is a technique which places your attention on different parts of the body for relaxation. The idea is to get out of your head and come into the awareness of body sensations. I became a Yoga Instructor in 2008 and this is what I learned ~ When I work with students I have them lie on the floor and use props to support there back. I guide them to focus on various parts of the body for 15- 20 minutes. Yoga Nidra can be used for shorter periods or longer periods. I have been a student and teacher of this technique and the benefits I reaped were;

Calming the mind
Observing my thoughts
relaxation of my muscles
Flowing with life instead of pushing against life
Expansion of breath
Calmer Digestive system
Headaches subsided
Problem solving: Awareness
Getting in touch with that deeper part of myself
Flow of prana
Body sharing with me of how to “eat” better
Put me in touch with my emotions and vulnerability

more benefits…

Calming the nervous system
Lenghtening the spine
Relaxation of the internal organs
Letting go and softening
And many other benefits

This is a great practice if you are looking for ways to deal with stress and a great way to to get out of your own way so new ideas can flow into your awareness.

Please contact me if you are wanting to learn more about Yoga Nidra at annelamantia@verizon.net

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

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

Does the environment affect our digestive system?

August 14, 2016September 22, 2017Leave a comment

I’ve come to realize that our environment plays such a huge role on my digestive system. What I mean is I went to the nail salon today and I almost passed out with th Trees e smell of the environment and my stomach found it offensive. I had to leave and get some fresh air. It made me wonder how often we are bombarded by toxins and don’t even know it. Taking care of ourselves involves not only being mindful of the foods we ingest, exercise and releasing emotions but environmental hazards as well. Research has shown that computers and cell phones disrupt our electro-magnetic fields. We keep a clean body by bathing and I believe we have to keep a clean energy field. Outside stimuli is the new norm and it is unfortunate.

Take the time to slow down, breathe and relax. Nourish your system with good foods and find time to nourish your soul, whatever that may be ~ nature, having fun or being creative.

Posted on March 20, 2015 by Anne Lamantia

Panaseeda ~ Black Cumin Oil

August 14, 2016September 22, 2017Leave a comment

The Black Cumin seed (Nigella saliva) has been used for centuries to promote health and panaseeda-black-cumin fight disease. The extra virgin oil of the seed is the key! Black cumin has been written about in every religious text ever published.

Hundreds of medical studies have been published in the Middle East, Asia, Europe and the United States. It focuses on it’s immune-enhancing properties. It is also highly effective for healthy weight management.

Posted on March 16, 2015 by Anne Lamantia

What I know about Heart Disease

August 14, 2016September 22, 2017Leave a comment

I am going to start this conversation with a testimony. It begins with Eugene Carns who is my father. He is 79 years old and was diagnosed with heart disease when he was in his early 30’s. He had a heart attack. He was very thin and smoked cigarettes and drank Genesee beer. He sought the advice of his Dr. and was given a diet to adhere to. It included skim milk, magarine and lean meat. Yep, I remember drinking skim milk due to the fact it tasted like water. Oh yeah I forgot to mention my grandmother had artheriosclerosis. I don’t know alot about her circumstances. As a child I never understood why he would have heart disease at such a young age and being as thin as he was. Moving forward ~ 10 years later (age 40) he had another one. He had awoken in the middle of the night with indigestion that would not go away. The end result ~ Open Heart Surgery. When he arrived home he looked 20 years older and Mom began balling her eyes out. I knew he was going to be fine but I was afraid. My Aunt Mary Pat who was taking care of me and my 4 siblings was afraid too. Again, he needed to adhere to diet and exercise. He slept on the second floor and was told not to climb stairs. I remember he would never lift anything heavy (Dr’s orders). I had to haul wood from outside and up a flight of stairs into the second floor! Luckily there was 5 of us for this hard labor. He healed rapidly and was back to his old self. What went through my mind was: ” I don’t understand why he has this disease he is so skinny.” I did understand one thing ~ he had a blockage in his vessels which impeded his blood flow. I never understood how diet was related due to the fact he was a very thin man. When I look back at all of this I can see how afraid he was of dying. He always spoke about it and seemed cautious with life to venture out and try new things. Ten years later he had open-heart-surgery once again. Same protocol as far as diet and exercise. He was always mindful of what he was suppose to eat or not eat. He did cheat with bacon. He drank alot but did not smoke cigarettes since he was 30. Fast Forward; since than he has had another heart attack and stents put in and struggles with his body temperature and shortness of breath. In the past he has been on a beta blocker and has gone off of it due to the fact he was barely alive while taking it. Side effects are atrocious!

My observation;

I have always questioned what has caused his narrowing of his vessels and blockages. We all know it does not help to be type A personality. On a scale of 1-10 I would rate my Dad a 7 maybe a 8. What I do know about my Dad is I rarely saw him cry and he seemed angry and sad alot. He also was very controlling. It makes sense to me when we do not allow are feelings to flow we constrict and become tight and are vessels do the same. According to Panache Desai emotions are energy in motion and when they do not flow they get stuck in the body and this creates density. I read a study once and it said when we are stressed are DNA tightens up and when we are calm it relaxes.

Helpful hints: Breathe and relax. Let go of the outcome of situations and let go of control. Let go and let God. Feel your fear, anger and sadness. In the past it was easy for me to step aside from my feelings labeling them bad or wrong. A dear “old” friend reminded me that these feeling were the doorway to my humanity. Thanks to this “dear” friend of mine I feel free, alive and learning everyday in every way to love who I am.

Posted on July 29, 2013 by Anne Lamantia

Digestive Health

August 14, 2016September 22, 2017Leave a comment

According to the Mayo Clinic on Digestive Health. Digestion is one of the critical functions that your body has to perform in order to survive. Food supplies the necessary nutrients that provide your cells with sustenance and energy, allowing your body to grow and develop, and to repair and maintain itself.

This is what I have come to know about healthy digestion:

1. What are you thinking while you are eating? For example if you are angry or sad your body is registering this and this will impact how your food is digested.

2. Be mindful of your conversation and the stimulus that is around you. ie. What are your distractions? Television, conversation that you are having with others or the conversation you are having with yourself.

3. Notice the portion of food you put on your plate and are you introducing different food groups? Do you sit down and eat or eat on the run? Do you eat at regular times throughout the day?

4. Intuition plays a key role for me. I eat 3 meals a day and snack in the mid morning and snack in the mid afternoon and also before I go to bed because I know my body needs this in order to sustain myself. I make it a habit to snack on fruits and veggies and cut back on sugar. It’s important to get the nutrients to sustain my mental and physical health.

5. I have tried many diets and concluded that it is important to trust what I know my body needs and this includes eating more meat on some days, drinking more water and introducing fruits and vegetables. Some days I crave Mexican food and I just go with it.

6. I believe evolution plays a key role. I am now 50 and menopausal and my eating habits have changed or better yet I remind myself to take better care of myself with my eating habits.

7. Best diet for me has been the Mediterranean diet. This includes reduction of carbs and sugars. Fresh fruit, vegetables, meat and drinking plenty of water.

What I have noticed with this change of diet:

1. Better digestion and more energy.

2. Snacking before bed assists with digestion, increasing metabolism and maintaining blood sugar level.

3. Supplementation with vitamins and minerals is important. Magnesium, Calcium and Potassium is important to all of the organs. These minerals are excreted on a daily basis.

Posted on January 23, 2013 by Anne Lamantia