With my new vision of creating a healing center, I feel motivated. I am inspired to get more specific about the vision of the Wilberforce Village. I believe that Holy Spirit dropped this vision into my heart just at the right time. He has done this many other times before in my life.
I have spent hours writing this article, including asking Leo, my AI assistant, to help out. I know there are probably typos, grammatical areas, and confusing parts. But I just can no longer be attached to getting this article to be just right. I hope you enjoy all the details!
I am now researching wellness centers which are plant-based. This makes me feel reinvigorated to change and lengthen my intermittent fasting time. I believe this change is essential for health. I started learning about natural healing and basic lifestyle practices 50 years ago from Cliff Mikkelson, my first former husband. Even though I have had this knowledge for a long time, I have at times fallen into bad habits. I still eat things I don’t think are good for me. I eat for emotional reasons. I also eat at night when I know it is not healthy.
Now it is time for me to go to another level of discipline. I will practice the things I believe to be good for me. This includes 17 hours of intermittent fasting and all the things described in this article. Over the past week I have made some big changes. I feel an increase in my energy, enthusiasm, joy and resilience. I’m overjoyed to find Utchee Pines Institute which has provide some grounded information and inspiration. As I pursue this goal of building a holistic healing center I hope to find mentors.
An Intergenerational School where students of all ages learn the skills of life which are all practiced in the village which contribute to making a world where all of life can thrive.
A Permaculture Farm consisting of a web of food forests woven among pods of mini-cohousing units along with community gardens and orchards.
A Farm Animal and Pet Rescue Sanctuary which serves as a healing center for animals and offers natural veterinarian care for locals. It also offers healing opportunities for human trauma victims who often can relate better to animals then to humans in their healing journey.
A Christian Monastery where monastics share all things in common and dedicate their lives to helping the Holistic Healing Center, Intergenerational School, and Permaculture Farm projects.
This is a book that inspired Cliff and I immensely. Return to Nature by Adolph Just, written in 1903. We practiced many of these teachings including healing with clay. This knowledge has been invaluable in my healing journey.
I am imagining that people from all over the world, but especially Madison County and the Prayer Lake neighborhood, are finding the healing benefits of a plant-based diet and living in all ways that are in alignment with God’s laws. I am finally ready to start writing a description of the healing center and sending it out to people who I think might be interested.
Uchee Pines Institute is a a healing center which is committed to assisting people through the use of simple, natural methods, using exercise, vegetarian nutrition, hydrotherapy, massage, the rational and judicious use of some herbs and supplements, and firm faith in the Divine Healer. I’m excited to get involved in their online community where people of all backgrounds and faiths can join together in encouraging a path of faith and wellness. It is Christ-centered, yet I am glad that anyone who follows the guidelines can join. Here is a link if you are interested in joining. It is free and donations are accepted of course.
When I read about all that is involved in their 17 day wellness program, I long to attend, even though I am very healthy!
I felt very inspired by the description of the health retreat inspired by the Hallelujah Diet as developed by George Malkmus. I want to incorporate many of their ideas, along with the practices and teachings of Les and Kathie Bauer, founders of the White Creek Wellness Center in Tennessee.
Here is a video about their health retreat based on the Hallelujah Diet.
I’ve followed the Hallelujah Diet folks for about 25 years and so that is why I trust these folks.
Here is a video where Cathie Bauer, co-founder of White Creek Wellness Center shares here wisdom.
I also am planning on reaching out to the vegan doctors listed in this article to see if they might know of anyone who would like to get a plant-based holistic center started. I look forward to receiving great responses.
Uchee Pines Institute is a a healing center which is committed to assisting people through the use of simple, natural methods, using exercise, vegetarian nutrition, hydrotherapy, massage, the rational and judicious use of some herbs and supplements, and firm faith in the Divine Healer. I’m excited to get involved in their online community where people of all backgrounds and faiths can join together in encouraging a path of faith and wellness. It is Christ-centered, yet I am glad that anyone who follows the guidelines can join. Here is a link if you are interested in joining. It is free and donations are accepted of course.
Writing a description of the ideal business partner, friend and Christian mentor hopefully help me find the perfect person! You can find that here.
Here are some scriptures that inspired me to want to create a plant based holistic healing center so that people who get healing will be inspired to adopt a vegan lifestyle. At first people often are desperate to heal, but then they get a chance to realize that eating animals contributes to suffering of not only animals, but all of life. Inspiring people to become vegan when they have a profound healing experience is a wonderful way to get people to become plant-based.
With God’s help, I hope to help bring about His coming kingdom. I pray that this healing center, along with the monastery and intergenerational school will help bring to fruition this kingdom.
I’ve been interested in how healing the vagus nerve is an important key to optimal health. Here are some tips that scientific studies prove to be helpful for
* **Eating a well-balanced diet**: Consuming plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables can contribute to vagus nerve health. Patricia says, “Of course I totally support a whole food, plant based diet. “
* **Exercising regularly**: Engaging in at least 30 minutes of exercise several times a week can help maintain vagus nerve health
* **Managing chronic health conditions**: Conditions such as high blood pressure or diabetes should be managed to support vagus nerve health
* **Practicing mindfulness**: Mindfulness, meditation, or various forms of stretching can help calm the nervous system and promote vagus nerve health
* **Taking prebiotics and probiotics**: These supplements can help maintain a healthy gut biome, which is linked to vagus nerve health
* **Singing**: The vibrations from singing can stimulate parts of the vagus nerve in the throat, contributing to its health
* **Deep breathing**: Exercises like deep breathing can stimulate the vagus nerve
* **Humming**: This activity can also help stimulate the vagus nerve
* **Meditating**: Meditation is another way to stimulate the vagus nerve. There are many ways to meditate if you are a Christian. https://wccm.org/meditate/how-to-meditate/
* **Massaging the outer ear**: This can be a simple method to stimulate the vagus nerve
* **Gargling water**: This exercise can also help stimulate the vagus nerve
* **Splashing your face with cold water**: This can be an effective way to stimulate the vagus nerve
These activities and practices can help maintain and improve the health of your vagus nerve, which plays a significant role in various bodily functions including heart rate, digestion, and stress response
Cold Exposure for Healing
**Acclimatization and Adaptation**
Human bodies can become resistant to cold temperatures through acclimatization and adaptation. Here are some ways to achieve this:
* **Gradual exposure**: Gradually exposing yourself to cold temperatures over a period of time can help your body adapt.
* **Cold showers**: Taking regular cold showers can help increase your body’s tolerance to cold temperatures.
* **Exercise in cold weather**: Engaging in regular physical activity in cold weather can help your body adapt to the cold.
* **Diet and nutrition**: Eating a balanced diet that includes foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and other nutrients can help support your body’s ability to adapt to cold temperatures.
* **Sleep and rest**: Getting adequate sleep and rest can help your body recover from the physical demands of cold exposure.
* **Stress management**: Managing stress through techniques such as meditation and deep breathing can help reduce the negative effects of cold exposure on the body.
Based on the results from Brave Search, it appears that walking barefoot in the snow can be done safely and has several health benefits. However, it’s essential to be aware of the risks and take necessary precautions to avoid frostbite.
To walk barefoot in the snow, you can follow these general guidelines:
* Start by gradually exposing your feet to cold temperatures to acclimate them.
* Be aware of the air temperature and ground temperature, as these can affect the risk of frostbite.
* If your toes start to feel numb or change color from pink to white, it’s a sign that frostbite is approaching, and you should warm up your feet immediately.
* Move your feet regularly to maintain blood flow and prevent cold-induced vasodilation (CIVD).
* Consider wearing warm socks or boots if you need to walk in extremely cold temperatures or for extended periods.
Some people have reported benefits from walking barefoot in the snow, such as increased sense of well-being, improved balance, and weight loss. However, it’s crucial to consult with a doctor before attempting to walk barefoot in the snow, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
**Physiological Adaptations**
When exposed to cold temperatures, the human body undergoes several physiological adaptations to conserve heat and maintain homeostasis. These adaptations include:
* **Increased brown fat**: Brown fat is a type of fat that generates heat when broken down. Exposure to cold temperatures can increase the amount of brown fat in the body.
* **Increased shivering**: Shivering is a natural response to cold temperatures that helps generate heat.
* **Increased blood flow**: Cold exposure can cause blood vessels to constrict, but repeated exposure can lead to increased blood flow to the extremities.
* **Increased muscle thickness**: Regular exposure to cold temperatures can lead to increased muscle thickness, which can help insulate the body.
* **Increased mitochondrial density**: Mitochondria are the energy-producing structures within cells. Increased mitochondrial density can help the body generate heat.
Wild Edibles As An Integral Part of Our Diet
Wild Edibles: Nutritional Powerhouses
Wild edibles, such as berries, greens, and mushrooms, are often high in nutritional value due to their evolutionary adaptation to their environment. Over time, these plants have developed unique characteristics to survive and thrive in harsh conditions, which has led to the accumulation of beneficial compounds.
- Antioxidants and Polyphenols: Wild edibles are rich in antioxidants and polyphenols, which help protect against oxidative stress, inflammation, and cell damage.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Many wild edibles are excellent sources of essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.
- Fiber and Prebiotics: Wild edibles often contain high amounts of dietary fiber and prebiotics, which support gut health and promote beneficial gut bacteria.
- Phytochemicals: Wild edibles contain a variety of phytochemicals, including flavonoids, carotenoids, and terpenes, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties.
Wild edibles that are common and easy to access in the Ozarks
* **Amaranth**: An edible weed found in many parts of the world. All parts are edible, but boiling the leaves is recommended to remove oxalic acid and nitrates
* **Burdock**: A plant with large leaves and purplish thistle-like flowers. The leaves, peeled stalks, and roots can be eaten raw or boiled. The leaves are bitter, so boiling them twice is recommended
* **Cattails**: Found near freshwater wetlands, cattails have edible rootstocks, stems, and leaves. The female flower spike can also be eaten like corn on the cob
* **Clovers**: Common in open grassy areas, clovers can be eaten raw or boiled. They are a good source of nutrition
* **Chicory**: Found in Europe, North America, and Australia, chicory can be eaten entirely. The young leaves and roots are best when boiled
* **Dock**: Known as curled dock, it has a long, bright red stalk. The stalk and leaves can be eaten raw or boiled,
* **Dandelion**: A common weed with edible roots, leaves, and flowers. Young leaves are best eaten raw or boiled, and the roots can be boiled and used as a coffee substitute
* **Field Pennycress**: Found in most parts of the world, the seeds and leaves can be eaten raw or boiled. Avoid consuming it if it grows in contaminated soil
* **Plantain**: Found in wet areas and alpine regions, plantain has oval, ribbed leaves. The young leaves are best eaten raw or boiled and are high in vitamin A and calcium
* **Hairy Bittercress**: A common backyard weed with a mustard-like flavor. All parts are edible, and the young leaves are best eaten raw in salads or cooked
* **Wild Onion and Wild Garlic**: These plants have edible leaves and bulbs. They can be used like store-bought onions or scallions, but ensure they have an oniony or garlicky smell before consumption
* **Chickweed**: Common in nitrogen-rich soil, chickweed is edible and can be used in salads or cooked.
***Lambs Quarters are amazing.
***Dead nettle are precious.
Ways to Heal Spiritually
Patricia says: “One method that we shall use is the Immanuel Approach. Here is an article I wrote about this trauma healing with Jesus method.
AI says: This is a method for emotional healing and spiritual growth developed by Dr. Karl Lehman, a board-certified psychiatrist with over 40,000 hours of clinical experience. It combines ancient spiritual practices with insights from modern neuroscience to help people establish a direct, interactive connection with God.
**Key Principles:**
1. **Experiential Faith**: The Immanuel Approach emphasizes the importance of experiencing God’s presence in daily life, rather than just intellectual understanding.
2. **Interactive Prayer**: It involves a two-way conversation between the individual and God, where the individual can ask questions, share feelings, and receive guidance.
3. **Presence of God**: The approach emphasizes the idea that God is always present and available, and that individuals can experience His presence in their lives.
4. **Healing and Growth**: The Immanuel Approach is designed to help individuals overcome emotional trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues, while also promoting spiritual growth and development.
**Goals:**
1. **Establish a direct connection with God**: The Immanuel Approach aims to help individuals experience God’s presence and guidance in their lives.
2. **Overcome emotional trauma**: It provides a safe and effective way to process and heal from past emotional trauma.
3. **Promote spiritual growth**: The approach encourages individuals to deepen their faith and develop a more intimate relationship with God.
Overall, the Immanuel Approach is a holistic method that combines spiritual practices with psychological insights to promote emotional healing, spiritual growth, and a deeper connection with God.
Spiritual Practices
The monastery will be a Christian Monastery, and thus we plan on implementing practices that are Christian in nature. We will support anyone who participates in the community to do these practices if they wish.
Here are Spiritual Disciplines for Christians
* **Prayer**: Engaging in conversation with God to foster a deeper relationship and seek guidance.
* **Meditation**: Reflecting on spiritual truths and God’s presence to cultivate inner peace and understanding.
* **Fasting**: Temporarily abstaining from food or other activities to focus on spiritual growth and dependence on God.
* **Study**: Regularly reading and reflecting on scripture to gain knowledge of God’s truth and apply it to daily life.
* **Simplicity**: Embracing a simple lifestyle to reduce distractions and focus on spiritual priorities.
* **Solitude**: Spending time alone to connect with God and reflect on one’s faith journey.
* **Submission**: Yielding to God’s will and allowing Him to guide decisions and actions.
* **Service**: Actively participating in bringing about God’s justice, peace, and restoration by serving others.
* **Confession**: Acknowledging sins and seeking forgiveness to maintain a pure relationship with God.
* **Worship**: Expressing adoration and reverence to God through various forms of praise and thanksgiving.
* **Guidance**: Seeking wisdom and direction from God through prayer, scripture, and community.
* **Celebration**: Rejoicing in God’s goodness and the blessings of life through acts of gratitude and joy.
These disciplines, as emphasized by Richard Foster and other experts, provide a framework for nurturing spiritual growth and deepening one’s connection with God
Being Vegan is a Lifestyle and Diet
Our healing center and all food eaten on the land will be plant-based, and animals will not be exploited in any way. A farm animal sanctuary as part of the school is envisioned, and companion animals such as dogs and cats will be accepted as well. There will be a screening process for companion animals as well as people.
There are many reasons why some Christians believe it is biblical to be vegan. Here are some of the key arguments:
* **The Bible’s original intention was vegan**: According to Micah Ben David Naziri, there is no Mitzvah to eat meat in the Torah, and the first dietary instructions in the Torah’s first chapter are to eat vegan.Genesis A
***The Bible describes the diet in the Garden of Eden as consisting of fruits, grains, nuts, and legumes. Genesis 1:29 states, “God said, ‘I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food.'” Additionally, Genesis 2:16 says, “The LORD God commanded the man, ‘You are free to eat from any tree of the garden.'”
In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve were strict vegans, eating only plants and fruits. This diet changed after the fall into sin, when God cursed Adam and Eve and they were required to eat herbs and cultivate the land. It is logical to think that God would want us to return to the original diet if we can do so.
***The Daniel Diet is a diet plan based on the biblical book of Daniel, specifically Daniel 1:8-14, where Daniel and his friends abstain from the rich food of the king’s table and eat only vegetables, fruits, and grains for 10 days. The diet plan is often associated with the principles of fasting, prayer, and spiritual renewal.
Some Christians adopt the Daniel Diet as a way to:
* Fasting and praying for spiritual renewal and growth
* Improving their physical health and well-being
* Following biblical principles of simplicity and humility
* Preparing for spiritual disciplines such as prayer, study, or evangelism
The diet typically involves eating only plant-based foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, for a period of time, usually 10 days. Some people also incorporate elements of the diet, such as abstaining from meat and rich foods, for a shorter period. But it seems like since Daniel was one of the wisest men in the Bible, if not the wisest (besides Jesus) it would be logical to follow his dietary plan.
* **Compassion for animals**: The Bible teaches compassion and kindness towards all creatures, including animals. For example, in Genesis 1:29-30, God gives humans permission to eat plants, but not animals.
* **Stewardship of the earth**: The Bible teaches that humans are stewards of the earth and have a responsibility to care for it. Veganism is seen as a way to reduce harm to the environment and promote restoration to the earth.
* **The example of Jesus**: Jesus taught that animals should be treated with kindness and respect. For example, in Matthew 10:29-31, Jesus says that even the smallest animals are precious to God.
* **The importance of gratitude**: The Bible teaches that everything we eat should be received with thanksgiving (1 Timothy 4:3-4). Some Christians believe that eating animal products is not consistent with this principle.
* **The biblical concept of “image of God”**: The Bible teaches that humans are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:26-27). Some Christians believe that this image is not limited to humans, but also extends to animals, which should be treated with respect and kindness.
* **The biblical prohibition on cruelty**: The Bible prohibits cruelty to animals, such as in Exodus 23:4-5, where it is forbidden to take the mother bird and her young together.
***Because God desires justice. Most workers in Concentrated Animal FeedingOperations and
slaughter houses are treated unjustly and the conditions are terrible.
***Because when we Christians have optimal health, we have more energy to serve. There are many scientific studies that show that a plant-based diet is opitimally healthy for humans.
**Scientifically Proven Health Benefits of a Whole Food, Plant-Based Diet**
A whole food, plant-based diet has been shown to have numerous health benefits, backed by scientific evidence. Some of the key benefits include:
* **Reduced risk of cancer**: A plant-based diet has been linked to a lower risk of certain types of cancer, including colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer.
* **Weight loss**: Plant-based diets tend to be high in fiber and low in calories, making it easier to lose weight and maintain weight loss.
* **Improved heart health**: A plant-based diet has been shown to lower blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and the risk of heart disease.
* **Reduced risk of type 2 diabetes**: Plant-based diets have been shown to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
* **Improved gut health**: A plant-based diet is high in fiber, which can help promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and improve overall gut health.
* **Reduced inflammation**: Plant-based diets tend to be high in antioxidants and other anti-inflammatory compounds, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
These benefits are supported by numerous scientific studies and reviews, including:
* The China Study
* Eat to Live
* A Guide to Healthy Eating: Strategies, tips, and recipes to help you make better food choices (Harvard Health)
* A Look at Plant-Based Diets (PMC)
* 9 Scientific Benefits of Following a Plant-Based Diet
* Is a Whole Foods, Plant-Based Diet Right for You?
* Whole-Foods, Plant-Based Diet: A Detailed Beginner’s Guide
* The Power of Plants: Is a Whole-Foods, Plant-Based Diet the Answer to Health, Health Care, and Physician Wellness? (PMC)
* Nutritional Update for Physicians: Plant-Based Diets (PMC)
Here are some more therapies that I will be exploring. I learned about these from the Hallelujah Diet Health Retreat:
- Ozone Therapies (insufflation, water, cupping)
- Rife Scan, Therapies and Ionic Foot Baths
- Vibration Therapy (Excellent for lymphatic cleansing and bone loss)
- PEMF (Pulse Electro Magnetic Field) Therapy (Excellent for oxygenating the blood cells, pain management and much more)
- HOCATT (10 therapies in one, in just 30 minutes! German clinics use this as standard)
- Zyto Scan (Find out which organs are stressed and what is stressing them)
- EVOX ( Change Your habits and Your Focus)
- Ionic Foot Baths (Eliminate toxins and improve your health)
- Whole Body Tuner (Helps re-calibrate your organs and works to rebuild your immune system)
- Far Infrared Saunas (internal temperature increases allow the body greater detoxification)
Fasting
Fasting is an essential part of the healing process including intermittent fasting. Fasting can offer a range of benefits, including spiritual, emotional, and physical advantages.
Spiritually, fasting can help individuals draw closer to God, as it allows them to focus more fully on seeking divine guidance and direction. It can also serve as a form of spiritual discipline, teaching the body to submit to the Spirit and breaking spiritual bondages. Additionally, fasting can foster a sense of unity and solidarity with others, especially during times of crisis or when praying for specific needs. Right now, Intercessors for America are calling for a fast, and this is in alignment with the scripture. Scriptures about fasting and praying for the nation include Joel 2, which calls for fasting as a means to achieve national repentance and revival. The passage states, “Now, therefore,’ says the Lord, ‘Turn to Me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning.'”
Emotionally, fasting can lead to increased self-control and patience, as well as a heightened sense of empathy. Some studies suggest that fasting can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, possibly due to changes in fatty acid levels and neurotransmitters, as well as other metabolic effects.
Physically, fasting can have several benefits, such as improving blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and aiding in weight loss. It also gives the digestive system a rest, potentially leading to better overall health. Fasting can offer several physical health benefits, including improved blood sugar control, weight loss, and better brain function. It may also help reduce inflammation, lower triglyceride levels, and improve heart health. Additionally, fasting can potentially delay the onset of tumors and reduce the risk of neurological disorders, though more research is needed to confirm these benefits in humans.
Fasting can be practiced in various ways, such as intermittent fasting, which involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting. Popular methods include the 16 method, where one fasts for 16 hours and eats within an 8-hour window, and the 5 method, where one eats normally for 5 days and restricts caloric intake for 2 days.
Laughter Yoga
Laughter yoga has several benefits, including:
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Boosts immunity
- Fights depression
- Improves sleep quality
- Increases circulation and exercises the muscles
- Invigorates the brain
- Reduces stress hormones and may help prevent heart disease
- Improves mental and physical health
Laughter yoga combines breathing exercises with deliberate laughter to promote relaxation and well-being. It’s a fun and accessible way to improve your health and reduce stress.
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Patricia says: “I have a practice of weeping with Jesus every morning. Here is the description of how I heal with Jesus, and I always have something to cry about.”
Weeping, or the shedding of tears, can have several healing benefits, including:
- Reducing stress and anxiety: Weeping can help release tension and promote relaxation.
- Releasing hormones: Crying can stimulate the release of hormones that help alleviate pain and promote healing.
- Improving mood: Weeping can help shift one’s emotional state and improve overall mood.
- Promoting social connection: Weeping can create a sense of empathy and connection with others, which can be beneficial for emotional and physical well-being.
- Reducing inflammation: Some studies suggest that weeping can help reduce inflammation and promote healing in the body.
It’s essential to note that these benefits are not unique to weeping and can be achieved through other forms of emotional expression and release.
Would you like to know more about the relationship between weeping and wound healing?