Plum Blossom Wellness eNewsletter :: July 2008 |
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MSM Benefits the Entire Body
In a time when we are so accustomed to looking for additives, preservatives, and chemicals in our foods, most of us have adopted a rule for opting out certain foods. The general rule is “if you can’t say it, don’t eat it”. However, a few long and hard-to-pronounce words slip in that are actually extremely beneficial. Methylsulfonylmethane, or MSM, is a prime example. MSM is an organosulfur compound that occurs naturally in some plants and is clinically proven to improve joint health. This is especially important for athletes, those who suffer from arthritis or inflammation, and the elderly.
MSM Benefits at a Glance
• a key to healthy connective tissue
• reduces inflammation
• great for athletic performance and
injury recovery
• improves joint health and relives
pain
• great for skin, hair, nails
and cartilage
• sulfur helps muscles heal after
a workout
• anti-aging
Plum Blossom Wellness offers more than a dozen MSM products, both internal and external.
My personal favorite is the MSM body lotion in Orange Ylang Ylang, and the Old Fashioned Peppermint Liniment. Try the MSM powder as a great value!
Tell me more!
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Neem Oil for Health & Beauty
By Celeste Brinson, MSc
Nutritional Consultatnt
Neem is a life giving tree in India. Known as "Divine Tree", "Heal All", and "Village Pharmacy", Neem has proven medicinal properties being anthelminitic, antifungal, antidiabetic, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-infertility, anti-inflammatory, and sedative. Neem oil is highly nourishing to the skin, hair, and nails and its antimicrobial properties manage skin conditions such as acne. It also improves skin elasticity. The antiseptic qualities of the Neem tree make it highly useful in oral health care, such as toothpaste and mouthwash.
Dr. Hauschka skin care founder Elizabeth Sigmund returned from India in 1964 with a new understanding of the Neem tree and its healing properties and began incorporating it into the holistic skin care line. The Neem Nail Oil is offered in an oil pump and a nail-stick, great for traveling and on-the-go easy use. This nourishing oil is a luxury treatment for the skin and nails and can be used daily to beautify the hands. Neem Hair Lotion and Neem Hair Oil are also both available for scalp health, hair loss, and dry/damaged hair repair. Weekly deep conditioning treatments with the Neem Hair Oil will deliver beautiful, radiant hair.
Banyan Botanicals offers a Neem supplement that is great for nervous system disorders and skin disorders. They also offer Neem Oil, perfect for massage and conditioning the skin. Plum Blossom offers a Neem Mouthwash that is great for plaque build-up and gingivitis, as well as daily oral health care.
Take the wisdom of Ayurvedic Medicine and the essence of India and incorporate it into your daily health regime! Neem has been used for over forty different ailments and is the best oil available for skin, hair, and nails!
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Celeste’s Basil Feta Couscous
2 Cups whole wheat couscous
8 oz Middle Eastern Sheep Feta
8 fresh Basil Leaves
1/4
C Bariani Olive Oil
3T Lemon Juice
Pinch of Himalayan Pink Crystal Salt
Directions:
Boil couscous and allow to cool (add olive oil to keep couscous from clumping). Divide the Feta cheese and chop basil leaves. Add all ingredients together in a bowl and chill overnight. This is so refreshing for the summertime and is great with Orzo salad and Hummus!
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In-Store Exhibit
Our current art exhibit by Karin Dreyer, entitled "the decisive moment", is currently on display. Please stop in and view this gorgeous body of work during store hours.
www.karindreyer.com
Smoking Cessation with Karen Hansen, Licensed Acupuncturist
Group acupuncture for smoking cessation, fee on a donation basis.
Download a flyer here |
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Happy Independence Day!
Our store will be closed Friday, July 4th for Independence Day. We wish you and your loved ones a happy, safe, and fun celebration and look forward to seeing you during regular business hours, which resume Saturday, July 5th. As a reminder, our store is open Monday – Friday from 10 am to 7 pm, Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm, and Sunday from noon to 4 pm.
Introducing Pattern Body Wash - at 20% off!
 Like all our Bath & Body and skin care products, Pattern body wash contains no parabens, no artificial fragrances, colors or dyes and is not tested on animals. These gentle, moisturizing cleansers do not dry the skin and are made with the finest fragrances, essential oils and plant extracts. For hair, face and body. Available in Black Pepper, Citrus, Cucumber and Eucalyptus. Treat yourself, avoid those chemicals and save!
 Fiberzon
What is your "gut" telling you about your health?
Fiberzon is a synergistic blend of fibers and botanicals that have been used for centuries for their detoxifying, energizing, and revitalizing effects. Fiberzon works as an internal broom to gently remove toxins and unwanted wasted from the digestive tract and colon. For better mental clarity, hormone balance, weight management, and improved digestion, add Fiberzon to your daily health program! Attend our Amazon Herb event on July 24th for more information about this entire line of products! See events listing for more info.
 Amber Agave
Raw Amber Agave and Dark Agave provide more sweetness than sugar without the blood sugar spike! Use only 1/3 cup of agave to every cup of sugar in cooking and deliver bold sweetness to your recipes healthfully. These raw agaves are mineral rich and unprocessed and are perfect for teas and cooking.
NEW! Sheng Zhen Qigong Classses with Francie Shimaya
Wednesdays, July 23, 2008 through September 24th
7:15 pm - 8:15 pm
 In the ten one-hour class sessions of Sheng Zhen Qigong (The Qigong of Unconditional Love), you will learn two seated, moving forms. Some standing movements will be interspersed so the body can remain flexible and relaxed. The class will end with a 15 minute meditation. See our event listing below for more information.
 Skin and Body Treatment Specials with Mary Ellen Milks, LMT, Esthetician
Dr. Hauschka Summer Facial
Now is the perfect time to give your skin that extra hydration for beautiful healthy summer skin. A 45-minute Dr. Hauschka facial to hydrate, renew and nurture your skin is only $65 for the month of July!
Dr. Hauschka Custom Facial and Massage
Deeply nurturing facial and massage with Dr. Hauschka, customized for your skin and body. Massage oil choices are: Rose for balance, Lemon to refresh and lifts the spirits, Lavender for deep relaxation or Birch Arnica for sore muscles. Treat yourself to this lavish 2-hour treatment! July Special, $150.
Baby Belly Facial for Pregnant Moms, just $50
Nurture your self and your new baby with this relaxing treatment. Yes, Steam, Cleanse, Mask and Massage your beautiful belly. Only the purest, finest products will do for you and your little one, so only Dr. Hauschka holistic products are used in this treatment. July Special $50.
To take advantage of these specials, you may book your appointment directly with Mary Ellen at: (512) 447-1944.
 $10 off Acupunture Treatment with Kevin Laux, L.Ac.
Take advantage of this great offer from seasoned acupuncturist, Kevin Laux, specializing in allergy elimination, stress management and pain relief. July Special for new clients, $60.
To take advantage of this special, you may book your appointment directly with Kevin at: (512) 506-1179. |
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Hitchhikers Guide to the Aquarian Age with Donna Woodwell, MA
Saturday, July 12: 10 am - 2 pm
"We’re at dawning of the Age of Aquarius" the song goes. But a look at the news shows rising oil and food prices, economic recession, and environmental crisis. What does this transition to the Aquarian Age really mean for us? How do we prepare?
In this class, we’ll look at the astronomy behind the astrological ages, the history of past ages, as well as what the future may hold for us as a society and as individuals. We’ll also talk about strategies to help you navigate the coming changes.
Cost is $25 per person. Please call 306-7344 to reserve your spot as space is limited!
Donna Woodwell, MA, has received metaphysical training in Western, Eastern and indigenous philosophies. She is an Initiate of the Australian branch of The Hermetic Order of the Brotherhood of Light, has studied Earth-based spirituality with international author and eco-feminist Eileen "ike” West, and is practitioner of Usui Reiki and Hatha Yoga. Donna Woodwell is the founding president of the Astrological Society of Austin and a member of the national board of the largest U.S. astrological association, NCGR.
Jin Shin Jyutsu Five-Day Basic Seminar with Anita Willoughby
July 16-20, 2008
Anita is a fun and vibrant teacher who brings the art of Jin Shin Jyutsu to life for each of her students.
Jin Shin Jyutsu is an ancient, hands-on healing art. It is used to harmonize the life energy in the body, bringing it into balance while promoting optimal health and well being. It facilitates our own profound healing capacity. It is the perfect compliment to conventional as well as other alternative healing methods. It is a method that can be used by both lay and professionals. Truly, an art for EVERYONE.
Part I is the foundation to the work. It introduces the 25 Safety Energy Locks and delves into the physio-philosophy of Jin Shin Jyutsu.
Part II covers the 12 Basic organ flows, pulses, and helps us understand how all of these contribute to harmonizing the body, mind and spirit.
Basic Seminar for New Students $850 ($100 deposit)
Part I: $510 – July 16-18, 2008 (prerequisite for Part II)
Part II: $340 – July 19-20, 2008
Review Students $550 (Part I $330 & Part II $220)
For information and registration contact Georgia Shaw at 512-699-4319 or gshaw@austin.rr.com.
Sheng Zhen Qigong with Francie Shimaya
Wednesdays, July 23, 2008 – September 24th: 7:15 pm – 8:15 pm
In the ten one-hour class sessions of Sheng Zhen Qigong (The Qigong of Unconditional Love), you will learn two seated, moving forms. Some standing movements will be interspersed so the body can remain flexible and relaxed. The class will end with a 15 minute meditation. View our calendar for more information.
Cost is $18/class or $150 for the 10-class series. Please call 306-7344 to reserve your spot as space is limited.
Amazon Rainforest Herbs: Personal and Global Health
Thursday, July 24, 2008: 6:00 pm – 7:00 pm
Discover the healing and restorative plants of the Amazon rainforest and how these healthful products can also help sustain indigenous communities, protect their land and preserve their wisdom. Over 350,000 acres saved! Experience complimentary Amazon Herb Company products: teas, herbs, supplements, and healthy chocolate and take advantage of special offers. Share the benefits--bring your friends and loved ones to Plum Blossom Wellness, Thursday, July 24th at 6pm. FREE EVENT!
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Living La Vida Luna with Donna Woodwell, MA
Saturday, August 2: 10 am - 2 pm
Want to live in closer harmony with the natural world? Learn to follow the cycles of the Moon. In this class we’ll discuss Moon signs, working with the phases of the Moon, void of course Moons, the progressed Moon, lunar return charts and more. Celebrate your sacred luna-cy!
Cost is $25 per person. Please call 306-7344 to reserve your spot as space is limited!
Interested in renting our space? Call 306-7344 for info |
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