Micro of the Macro

Notes on My Beloved AZ

*A tree bloom on Sedona’s West Fork hiking trail*

During my first extended visit to Northern Arizona, it stole my heart. It was early springtime, and the trees were budding and blooming and releasing sublime fragrances. The hiking trails were numerous, and lined with boulders, multi-colored sandstone, red cliffs, huge ponderosa pine trees, alligator junipers, small cactus shrubs, and aspen groves. Some trails featured Native American cliff dwellings, mud-walled structures, and petroglyphs. Other trails crossed creeks or lead to lakes, big and small. The most interesting trail I hiked, Cathedral Wash (a workout for both body and mind due to the trail dropping between 5 and 30 feet in areas, leaving you to figure out how to descend) ends at the Colorado River, just outside the Grand Canyon.

*Cathedral Wash Trail. Look closely and you will see me (dwarfed, but waving!)*

I find that a great number of people are unaware of Arizona’s elevation changes, the presence of trees, and the dramatic climate differences in the state. If you think of a featureless, sandy, flat state with no water, trees, flowers, or beauty when you hear someone speak of Arizona, this post is for you.

You may have heard of the lovely red rocks of Sedona. Before beginning my 3-year road-trip adventure years ago, friends suggested I visit Sedona due to its incredible beauty and reputation as a spiritual hub. I took that advice, and they were right: its splendor is unforgettable, and with a guide, I was able to access a remote area that felt very sacred. But, did you know that Sedona sits at 4000 feet above sea level? And that it has a big, beautiful creek running through it, much of it recreation-accessible? (See this post for more on that.) During the late fall and early winter, trees along the creek turn spectacular shades of red, orange, and yellow. When snow falls on the red rocks, the sight is nothing short of glorious.

Speaking of snow, the highest point in the state, Humphreys Peak, topping out at 12,633 feet in elevation, sits among The San Francisco Peaks to the north of the small town of Flagstaff. At about 7000 feet above sea level, Flagstaff is one of the snowiest areas in the country, getting an average of 100 inches annually. Each of the seasons could not be more beautiful in Flag, as the locals call it. After winter covers Humphreys Peak with a bright white blanket, a lovely springtime arrives, bringing with it happy meadowlarks, woodpeckers, blue jays, hummingbirds, wrens, robins, warblers, finches, sparrows, and juncos. When summer takes over, there are a couple weeks of 90+ degree temps, but most days are cooler. It is possible during the summer to need a jacket at night, as high desert summer temps can drop into the 40s. Beginning around the first week in July, the area gets super-saturated with rain as a result of monsoon season, which lasts through September. The heavy precipitation encourages a myriad of wildflowers to pop up in meadows & canyons, alongside roads, and on hiking trails, once again transforming the beauty of the little mountain town. And then, fall arrives, causing local leaves to sing with vibrant colors.

*The San Francisco Peaks overlooking a field of wildflowers in Flagstaff.* *Humphreys Peak is on the far left.*

The drive north from Flagstaff reveals an other-worldly topography. Most of the land in the northeast corner of the state belongs to Navajo Nation and is largely undeveloped. About 90 minutes north of Flagstaff, you will see the turn-off to the Grand Canyon, which is a must-see. Carved by the Colorado River over millions of years, the Canyon is immense, sporting an elevation change of 8000 feet between its highest point and the mighty Colorado.

About an hour farther north, you will discover Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell, and Antelope Canyon. A boat tour on Lake Powell (located in both Arizona and Utah) offers spectacular views of the red, orange and white sandstone cliffs surrounding the water. With a Navajo guide, a walk through the narrow, beautifully formed Antelope Canyon will astonish you. The slot canyons are the happy result of flash floods having eroded the soft sandstone.

*Horseshoe Bend, part of the Colorado River that runs through the Grand Canyon*

As for points farther south, you will find them uniquely interesting as well. A drive south on I-17 just north of Phoenix yields a plethora of saguaro cactus plants at a certain point, and although I’ve yet to witness it, I’m told their beauty is astounding when they’re all in bloom. Tombstone, made famous by outlaws like Wyatt Earp and Doc Holliday, is a cool little town where gunfight reenactments are performed in the unpaved streets. It has been designated one of the best-preserved rugged frontier towns of the late 1800s. And Tucson offers an extensive Botanical Gardens network, Saguaro National Park, and Mt. Lemmon, a jewel that rises over 9000 feet out of the Sonoran Desert.

*Part of the set from the gunslinger performance*

If you have always pictured the state of Arizona as hot, sandy, and drab, I hope this post has forever changed that image. The state’s diverse and distinctive terrain is an eye-popping Mecca for outdoor enthusiasts. Experience its unique history and allure, and you may find yourself writing love notes, as well.

Blessings for Arizona Beauty,

Lisa

Note: My beloved state is currently aflame. At the time of this post, there are more than 130 fires burning around the state; the largest 7 encompass over 400,000 acres, and many of the fires continue to grow. If you plan to visit Arizona this year, I strongly advise that you wait until the fires have subsided and air quality has improved.

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The original version of this post, entitled Arizona: A Love Letter, was published in May of 2020.

The content of this article is for educational and informational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice. Please consult with a qualified health care professional before acting on any information presented herein. Any statements about the possible health benefits of any subject discussed have not been evaluated by medical professionals or the Food & Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or illness.

6 Reasons I Choose Clean Eating

Clean eating is a term that is broadly & loosely defined, I’ve learned while writing this post. It can relate to not only food & drink, but also exercise, sleep, stress management, and spending time with loved ones, all of which are important for a happy, healthy life. But, to me, clean eating refers to only the consumption portion: choosing closer-to-the-Earth foods & drinks that are whole and organic, either unprocessed, or minimally processed with nothing artificial added. This practice provides my body with what it really needs. As a result, I am the best possible steward of my health, which I believe to be my greatest asset.

There are many reasons I have made clean eating a lifestyle, and I want to share 6 of the biggies with you.

Eating whole, clean foods is the manner in which our ancestors ate, and the way Nature intended. Only in the past 150 years has the practice of adding artificial flavors, colors, fillers, and other chemicals made in a lab become the norm. Because we evolved eating whole foods in their natural state, our bodies don’t recognize the man-made additives, and therefore don’t know how to process them. Many times, they are tucked away in our fat stores, but sometimes, they make their way into our vascular system and organs, and have the potential to cause disease. I don’t want to take that risk.

*Birthday cake made from black beans & dates, with avocado, date & cacao frosting* – *DELISH*!

Committing to buying organic fruits and vegetables keeps genetically-modified foods out of my body. Due in large part to government subsidies in this country, GMO food production is on the rise. This is true even though there have been no long-term studies done on human consumption, and short-term studies have yielded frightening results. According to the article 10 Scientific Studies Proving GMOs Can Be Harmful to Human Health, consuming GMO food & drink may contribute to various cancers, gluten sensitivity, autism, Parkinson’s, and Alzheimer’s.

*Mineralizing water with cucs, berries*, *and Himalayan salt*

Nutrient-dense whole foods are high in fiber, the preferred food of my gut’s microbiome. Keeping my gut bugs happy is a priority, since they wield such power over my cravings and, therefore, my health in general. (Go to this article for more on that.) According to Michael Greger, MD, author of the book How Not to Die, eating the Standard American Diet, (which is high in processed foods, meats, & dairy, and low in high-fiber whole plant foods) can result in needing 4 or more days for digestion and elimination, whereas plant-based eating requires only one to two days. The slower process is undesirable for many reasons. For example, when those 4 or more days are passing, we don’t stop eating and wait for clearance; we continue eating more of the same hard-to-assimilate foods, placing an even larger burden on all body systems. It’s no wonder that the US spends more than any other country on healthcare (or disease management, to be precise.)

Eating clean allows me to avoid taking most supplements. That saves me money. It also helps me avoid more man-made additives. In The China Study: Startling Implications for Diet, Weight Loss, and Long-Term Health, T. Colin Campbell, PhD, Professor Emeritus at Cornell University, asserts that obtaining nourishment from a variety of whole plant foods is superior to taking supplements due to the symphony of nutrients released from plants that all work together, versus the single extracted vitamin or mineral that works on its own or with its manufactured ingredients.

*Cherry tomatoes ready for a light sauté*

Whole foods have a good amount of structured water in them, a different type of water molecule that is deeply hydrating and contributes to the optimal function of my body. In his book Cells, Gels, and the Engines of Life, Dr. Gerald Pollack states that water is essential to each and every cellular process. Most processed foods & drinks have little to no water content that can be used for cellular hydration. (If you’d like to know more about the critical importance of hydration, check out this article.)

Clean eating contributes to a healthy pH balance in my body. Processed foods cause the blood to become overly acidic, throwing off homeostasis. When this occurs, the blood can leach minerals from the bones to reestablish its set point. This can contribute to thinner bones and osteoporosis. Additionally, blood that is constantly exposed to excess acid can become a breeding ground for cancer.

Eating clean is a way to help meet your body’s essential needs while avoiding a tangle of harmful effects. You were designed to eat real, whole foods. By following Nature’s protocol, you are taking responsibility for your health, your greatest asset.

Blessings for Healthy Choices,

Lisa

Spiralized Veggies with Thai Peanut Sauce

I first tried raw spiralized zucchini noodles at a deli in a Whole Foods Market near Austin, Texas years ago. There was a choice of raw tomato sauce or spicy peanut dressing to top the noodles, and of course, I had to try some of each. The peanut dressing was better, hands-down! The bold, piquant flavors of that sauce haunted me, until finally, a few years later, I found a recipe that could be modified to taste similar. (Regrettably, I didn’t record the name of the cookbook or author, so I cannot properly credit the person whose recipe I altered to create this fabulous sauce!)

Since that day at Whole Foods, I’ve experimented with many veggie noodle recipes. In addition to zucchini, I’ve spiralized other vegetables, including cucumbers and sweet potatoes, and thrown in all kind of nuts, fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, and coconut. Sometimes I lightly sauté the noodles in olive oil with garlic, other times I leave them raw. I’ve even cooked grain spaghetti and mixed it with raw noodles. I’ve found that the colorful, raw combination shared below is my favorite.

As for health-giving qualities, raw foods have significantly more enzymes, vitamins, minerals, alkalizing properties, and structured water than cooked foods. From various sources, I’ve read that, owing to these beneficial factors, 50 to 70% of our regular diet should be raw. When I first learned about raw foods from the life-changing book Conscious Eating by Gabriel Cousens, MD, the recommendation was for 100% raw – too radical for me, but I’ll admit, the people I’ve known who can manage that lifestyle are incredibly healthy. As much as I love to cook, going completely raw would take away my favorite creative endeavor. But I do shoot for 50% raw each day. My morning fruit and vegetable smoothie accomplishes most of that goal. I also eat quite a few salads and avocados, & often snack on raw veggies while I’m prepping them to cook. During the hotter months, there’s nothing I find more refreshing than a cool slab of watermelon. Additionally, I’ve started making various dessert balls by combining oats, nuts, dates, & other raw ingredients in the food processor. They are so yummy, I give them as gifts!

On to the recipe. My sincerest thanks to the cookbook developer whose name I did not record; this sauce was inspired in large part by the recipe Soba Noodles with Peanut and Ginger Sauce.

(Those of you with peanut allergies can sub almond butter & top with chopped almonds. I’ve made the sauce this way many times, even though I’m not allergic.)

Yield: 2 Large Servings

Ingredients (use all organic/non-GMO if possible)
8-10” long zucchini, spiralized
6” long daikon radish, spiralized
Large carrot, spiralized or cut into thin strands with a veggie peeler
Large red bell pepper, cored, seeded, & sliced into thin strips
1/4 medium red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
2 tbsp tamari
2-3 tbsp maple syrup (to your preferred sweetness)
1 tbsp freshly grated ginger
2 tsp freshly grated garlic
1 1/2 tbsp toasted sesame oil
1/4 tsp cayenne
6 tbsp peanut butter
1/3 – 1/2 cup water (to your desired consistency)
salt to taste, if needed
chopped peanuts for the top

Directions
Mix all the vegetables in a medium bowl. Put the next 7 ingredients (tamari through peanut butter) in a small blender cup & spin until creamy and well combined. Add part of the water & spin again. Stop and check consistency. Add more water (or don’t) until you’re happy with the thickness. Taste for salt, adding a dash or 2 if needed.

Split the veggie noodles between 2 bowls and top with *sauce & chopped peanuts. Enjoy!

*You will have leftover sauce. Try its deliciousness on any green salad, or simply spiralize more veggies! Or, how ’bout using it as a dip for fresh rolls? It also works beautifully as a stir fry sauce. It might even be good on chocolate ice cream😊! It will thicken after refrigerating, so whisk in an extra tablespoon or so of water as needed the next day.

Little-Known Weight Loss Strategies

A few months after the pandemic first started wreaking havoc, internet searches worldwide began showing a significant increase in the quest for weight loss information, according to Google Trends. It seems covid robbed us of not only our individual freedoms, but also our willpower. Many of us have put on weight as a result of gym closures, more time at home, fewer social interactions, and higher stress levels. In addition, several news stories at the inception of the virus focused on increased consumer demand for comfort foods such as hamburgers & fries, hot dogs, pizza, and ice cream. These foods, which are often filled with artificial ingredients, salt, sugar, fat, and excess calories, can offer a brief sense of stress relief as a result of their effects on the brain’s reward center, much like cocaine or heroine. But once that fades, we can be left with a sugar crash, extra calories to burn (or store as fat), an unhappy gut, guilt, and an overall sense of feeling worse than before we ate them.

So what can we do to feel better and drop the extra weight? Learn to work with, rather than neglect, the needs of our bodies. As you may have already discovered from past articles, the health information shared on Micro of the Macro is well outside the box, based on new or unpopular scientific studies. The star of this article, the gut’s microbiome, has become an area of extensive study over recent years, and the findings are changing the way we understand the concepts of health and disease.

I’ve written before on the importance of this colony of bacteria in our guts (check out this article for my tips on immunity). What I didn’t mention in past posts is the fact that these microbes are often in charge of the foods we crave and those we choose to eat. Yes, you read that right, in charge. According to an article from the US National Library of Medicine/National Institutes of Health entitled Is Eating Behavior Manipulated by the Gastrointestinal Microbiota?, the gut bacteria that we “host” can manipulate not only the brain’s reward center, but also our tastebuds, cravings, and mood. Furthermore, the less diverse the bacteria colony (largely a consequence of antibiotics and nutrient-depleted foods), the more power the bacteria has to manipulate us, increasing our chances of obesity. In fact, the control our gut bacteria has over us is so exacting that the article refers to them as puppet masters! Frightening, huh?

In order to regain mastery of your cravings and relationship with food, and therefore your weight, it is necessary to diversify your microbiome. Making healthy choices, such as organic fruits and vegetables, local and seasonal if possible, is a great first step. Introducing new foods to your diet results in new bacteria in your gut. Probiotic food and drinks, such as miso, sauerkraut, tempeh, kombucha, and kefir result in greater numbers of diverse healthy bacteria. Fiber-rich prebiotic foods, such as onions, garlic, leeks, asparagus, artichokes, dandelion greens and jicama support the growth of those good bacteria. And a healthy, diversified colony of microbes can help you make healthier food choices in the days, months and years ahead.

Fiber is extremely beneficial for gut bacteria, according to Justin & Erica Sonnenburg, PhDs, researchers at Stanford’s University of Medicine. Fiber is actually a carbohydrate (something worth considering if you’re doing keto or another low-carb diet) that is indigestible. The Sonnenburgs’ research team has done long-term studies of the gut bacteria of a hunter-gatherer tribe in Tanzania, whose members, young and old, are considered models of vitality. Their studies revealed that each member of the tribe consumes between 100 and 150 grams of dietary fiber daily. Most Americans, it pains me to say, get about 15 grams per day.

In addition to being a favorite food of your good gut bacteria, fiber also helps your body eliminate toxic chemicals, such as artificial food additives, pesticides, and environmental pollutants. These toxins, often stored in fats, interrupt the body’s normal functionings of blood sugar and cholesterol, which can lead to diabetes and obesity. (For more on this, check out Environmental Pollution and Diabetes: a Neglected Association.)

Proper hydration makes your microbiome happy, as well. (For additional info, see my article Hydration – Does It Really Matter?) Healthy fats like seeds, nuts, and avocados are deeply hydrating and should be a part of your daily intake. Drinking plenty of mineralized water (made with fresh lemon juice and/or Himalayan salt) & eating lots of melons, cucumbers, celery, grapes, peaches, berries, & other water-rich fruits keeps your cells & fascia hydrated. When your body is not properly hydrated, you become unable to regularly eliminate food and toxins. You have less energy. You can feel dull and heavy. Your blood thickens, making your heart and kidneys work harder. (For more on that idea, check out New York Times best-selling author Anthony William’s book Liver Rescue.) A poorly-hydrated body cannot function optimally, and may very well thwart your weight loss efforts.

Eating fewer flesh foods, dairy, and eggs may also help. Not to say that you need to become vegan, but I’d like to share my experience with you. I adopted a whole foods plant based vegan diet in stages. I became vegetarian first, and lost so much weight, so fast, that it scared me. In fact, I started binging on granola to stop the weight loss! Years later, after learning about the evils of animal protein, I gave up cheese and eggs, which made me totally vegan. Again, I lost a lot of weight in a very short period. A testament, I believe, to the power of good plant food bacteria crowding out animal food bacteria in my gut.

The folks that live in Blue Zones, the places that have the healthiest, longest-lived populations in the world, typically eat whole food plant based diets. Usually, if they do eat meat or dairy, it’s only a few times a month, and in very small portions. In these areas, it is common for people to age without the chronic diseases that plague the majority of Americans, and to have leaner builds.

Weight loss is something many of us struggle with, especially when we turn to food as a source of comfort. Choosing to supply your gut’s microbiome with what it needs goes a long way in helping you accomplish your weight loss goals and feel better in general. And, not just for now, but for a lifetime.

Blessings for a Healthy Microbiome,

Lisa

Note: The content of this article is for educational and informational purposes only, and is not intended as medical advice. I am not a medical professional. Please consult with a qualified health care professional before acting on any information presented herein. Any statements about the possible health benefits of any subject discussed here have not been evaluated by medical professionals or the Food & Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or illness.

And Another Note: The original version of this post was shared in July, 2020.

Green Exercise? Yes, Please!

*View from O’Leary Peak trail, Northern Arizona*

According to an article from Woodland Trust, the largest woodland conservation charity in the UK, Exercise . . . releases endorphins, improves both physical and mental health and helps you sleep better. . . But did you know that where you exercise can make a real difference? Exercising outdoors in a green space, studies show, results not only in profound benefits for physical health, but can also boost mental health in as little as 5 minutes. Five minutes!

The term green exercise was coined in a paper from 2003 by researchers at University of Essex. Their writings include an idea set forth by the American Biologist E. O. Wilson, called the Darwin of the 21st century, that humans have an innate connection with Nature, and therefore, time outdoors increases well-being in general and can even be transformative. Coupling that with the merits of exercise, this paper was the first to address body movement in the great outdoors, declaring it doubly beneficial.

*Peeking through a rock at the water’s edge, Southern California*

I prefer exercising outside whenever possible, probably because I so enjoy being near plants, natural waters, wildlife, and looking at the sky. Hiking and trail riding are activities that we enjoy on a regular basis. If I must exercise inside, I make sure there’s a view and fresh air if possible. When I belonged to a regular gym, I would focus on the trees outside the window while lifting or on the treadmill. At my climbing gym, all the doors are propped open to allow the wind to blow through. In our home workout room, I like to open the window and watch the birds while I’m on the boxing bag or glider. Yoga is best practiced, in my opinion, with an outside view. In fact, many classes are now offered in park settings. I used to attend classes at a studio with windows revealing a direct view of the San Francisco Peaks, Arizona’s tallest mountains. On snow days, it was particularly lovely and inspiring.

*Beautifully flowered rock found on a high desert hike*

An article entitled The Great Outdoors: How a Green Exercise Environment Can Benefit All from the National Institute of Health states we may be still genetically designed to be hunter-gatherers in the great outdoors, (but) we are not being stimulated physically or mentally in the same way and this may be detrimental to health . . . maybe green exercise should be used to facilitate physical activity to improve health. Going to the farmer’s market just doesn’t do it! The article goes on to say that, owing to various factors, outdoor exercise can be perceived as less demanding. (Maybe that’s another reason I prefer it?!)

Although there aren’t a great number of studies on green exercise, the research that has been done shows it yields many benefits physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. Alive, a leader in natural health publishing for almost 50 years, shared a write-up encouraging outdoor exercise due to its ability to reduce stress and confusion; improve self-esteem, mood, and focus; and offer better recovery from training. It can also reduce behavioral problems, especially in children. Plus, limited sun exposure enhances vitamin D levels, which can help us avoid cancers and heart disease. And, bonus, due to outside sights and sounds being more interesting, green exercise increases the chances that we will stick to our exercise routine. When you find you’re short on motivation, this might be the perfect fix.

*A walk along the dog beach in South Florida*

I’ve shared in past posts some of the many benefits we derive from simply being among trees, wildflowers, near waterfalls, and at the beach. (Check out my Categories link for more.) Incorporate those benefits with the value of physical activity and you have a combination that’s hard to beat. Not to mention, being outside makes exercise so much more fun!

The many advantages of green exercise, even if limited to only 5 minutes at a time, shows a great deal of promise for improving our lives. You are intimately connected to Nature; being active in this nurturing environment is a practice from the distant past that can easily transform your future.

Green Space Blessings,

Lisa

Let’s Get Lost in a Forest!

*Autumn at Wheeler Peak in Carson National Forest, NM*

If you go off into a far, far forest and get very quiet, you’ll come to understand that you’re connected with everything. ~Alan Watts

The above quote describes the experience I had as I began hiking in the forests of the Western US. What a difference it’s made in my worldview! The hundreds of miles I’ve trekked among trees, boulders, rushing waters, shrubs, and wildlife have felt healing from the start, as if the forests have wrapped me in a maternal embrace.

*Chama River in* *Carson National Forest, NM*

The first forest to ever steal my heart was Carson National Forest surrounding Taos, New Mexico. I’ve spent a good bit of time in the area, taking in much of its untamed beauty. I’ll never forget a late fall hike at Wheeler Peak, New Mexico’s highest mountain, looking at acres of Evergreens and Aspens in the distance with their streaks of dark green and vibrant yellow. I also have fond memories of picking piñon nuts and learning to prepare them inside their shells. The area’s forest includes Aspens, various Pines, Firs, Spruce, fragrant Sage, Rabbitbrush, and sometimes a gazillion wildflowers. Part of the Chama River runs through the forest, occasionally flanked on one side by mountains. I was, and still am, head over heels with the Carson NF area. In fact, after years of talking about my love for northern NM, friends and family were puzzled that I chose to move to Arizona instead.

The clearest way into the Universe is through a forest wilderness. ~John Muir

*Hiking Trail inside Coconino NF*, *Arizona*

The Coconino National Forest played a key role in my selection of northern Arizona. Humphrey’s Peak, which tops out at 12,633 feet and is sometimes snow-capped for long periods, can be seen throughout much of the forest, and became iconic in my mind. Between the time I first felt at home here & the year I was able to become a resident, I missed Mt. Humphrey’s like a far-away loved one. The forest has plentiful hiking trails and encompasses the country’s largest stand of Ponderosa Pine Trees. With a climate similar to that of northern New Mexico, Aspens, Spruce, Firs, and Junipers can be found here, as well as a few ancient Bristlecone Pines and Cypress trees. Due to a great number of blooming trees and bushes, Springtime delivers an intoxicating fragrance to the air. As a bonus, the Red Rock-Secret Mountain Wilderness is part of the forest, running parallel with Oak Creek between Flagstaff and Sedona. This part of Red Rock Country is not as touristy as Sedona proper, yet its beauty could be superior.

*A warm hike inside Dixie National Forest, Utah*

Speaking of red rocks, southern Utah has its share inside Dixie National Forest. From the first time I explored the area, I was struck by the gorgeous contrast between the burnt red of many of its rocks and the bold greens of surrounding trees, bushes, and grasses. I’ve done quite a bit of hosteling, camping, hiking, and exploring of National Parks in and around the forest. Bryce Canyon NP’s many hoodoos are unlike anything I’ve ever seen. The simple act of driving through the beauty of Zion NP is a soothing experience, and hiking is even better. Arches NP has some really unusual red rock formations, including, of course, arches! Dixie National Forest’s desert-type terrain is dotted by plants, lakes and streams.

I absolutely believe in a greater spiritual power, far greater than I am, from which I have derived strength in moments of sadness or fear. That’s what I believe, and it was very, very strong in the forest. ~Jane Goodall

*Bridger-Teton National Forest, Wyoming*

Further north and east lies the state of Wyoming. After my first time driving almost the entire length of the state thinking what’s all the fuss about?, I came to the Bridger-Teton National Forest. The nagging question disappeared from my mind, replaced by Oh, my . . . wow! . . . gorgeous! The area contains 7 of the world’s largest glaciers, hundreds of alpine lakes, and a number of sweeping valleys. Many headwaters can be found in the forest, including Two Ocean Creek, which is split by the Continental Divide to eventually make its way to both the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The Grand Tetons are part of this stunning forest. Considered an adolescent range due to their age of 10 million versus the Rockies’ 50-80 million years, the Tetons have experienced much less erosion, which accounts for their jagged tops.

This post would not be complete without mention of Los Padres National Forest in California, which includes the breathtaking coast of Big Sur. This forest includes over 200 hiking trails, 100 peaks, 150 springs, and almost 300 camping areas. Impressive, huh? If you ever visit the area, you will never forget its extraordinary beauty. My first visit involved a month-long work-study program at Esalen Institute. Each morning, I walked among the trees near the cliffs of the Pacific Ocean from the boarding house to the main property, taking photos & imprinting on my soul the aesthetics of this wondrous forest by the ocean.

*Pacific Coast Hwy shrouded in fog, Los Padres NF, California*

What an irony it is that these living beings in whose shade we sit, whose fruit we eat, whose limbs we climb . . . are so poorly understood. We need to come, as soon as possible, to a profound understanding and appreciation for trees and forests and the vital role they play, for they are among our best allies in the uncertain future that is unfolding. ~Jim Robbins, author of The Man Who Planted Trees: Lost Groves, Champion Trees, and an Urgent Plan to Save the Planet

Forests have indeed changed my perception of myself and that of the world. I have no doubt now that I belong; I am a part of Nature, as are you. During my many hours among the trees, I have come to know a healing embrace: that of our Primal Mother.

Blessings for Forest Healing,

Lisa

The Waterfall Effect

As long as I live, I’ll hear waterfalls and birds and winds sing. I’ll interpret the rocks, learn the language of flood, storm, and the avalanche. I’ll acquaint myself with the glaciers and wild gardens, and get as near the heart of the world as I can. ~John Muir

*Inside Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument*, *Utah*

When I see the word waterfall, it evokes exquisite and peaceful yet powerful scenes of Nature. When I see an actual waterfall, I often catch myself holding my breath, as if the awesome, wild beauty I’m witnessing might disappear if I breathe too loudly. Do you have a similar response?

Through the years, I’ve visited a great many waterfalls, oftentimes reached by hiking trails. Niagara Falls, between New York and Canada, is probably the largest I’ve seen; I seemed to capture more spray than falls in every photo I took! Multnomah Falls in Oregon is one of the most striking, and the entire area around Portland is home to a host of waterfalls, large and small, lending itself to some amazing hikes. You may remember my photo of Hanging Lake in Colorado, a small green paradise a little over a mile up a canyon wall. Glacier National Park in Montana showcases some spectacular cascades. Yosemite National Park in California is known for its wealth of waterfall beauty. In the Navajo Nation of northern Arizona, you will find Grand Falls, often called chocolate falls due to its muddy water from the Colorado River. And in southern Utah, a sweet waterfall and shallow lake can be found at the end of a hiking trail in Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.

In past posts, I’ve shared the idea that time near a waterfall is good for the gut’s microbiome and has a positive effect on immune function. This post will give you more reasons to seek out waterfalls and bask in their glory. Studies dating back to 1892 show that the natural force of water molecules crashing can cause electrical charges to separate. As a result, some molecules gain an extra electron, and negative air ions, or NAIs, are formed, which studies show can be most valuable for health. This process is referred to as spray electrification, or simply, the waterfall effect.

According to an article published on the National Institute of Health site, the beneficial effect of NAIs include activation of natural killer cells and improved mental health, . . . which may reduce pain, including chronic pain. The article goes on to say that the changes made to the microbiome by NAIs (mentioned above) may also influence pain outcomes. If helping with pain were the only benefit they offered, I’d say that’s reason enough to visit these spectacles of Nature. But there’s more.

A PubMed article states that studies reveal NAIs significantly reduced resting heart rate. Further, it suggests that NAIs have a positive effect on the body’s circadian rhythms, which help regulate our sleep-wake cycle. Could time at a waterfall resolve insomnia?

For a Healthline article entitled The Effect of Negative Ions, various research studies from the past century were examined. Exposure to NAIs, the science shows, have resulted in reduced depression symptoms, improved cognitive performance, lessened stress, and increased fat metabolism. The article goes on to say that it is the natural form of NAIs, not the manmade ones, that provide benefits, as there are risks associated with using electric ionizers in your home or office.

You may have asked yourself, what about beaches and rapids and other waters that crash? Negative air ions can be found there as well, but at lower levels. This is due to the stronger force of gravity on waterfalls versus ocean waves or other crashing waters. But, hey, if you’re within 10 miles of the sea and over 100 miles away from the nearest waterfall, by all means, catch some NAIs at the beach!

*Grand Falls, aka Chocolate Falls, Arizona*

Spending time near waterfalls not only puts us in a state of awe owing to their magnificent beauty, but also helps improve our health. Whether you’re seeking relief from pain, sleep disturbances, or stress, or looking to boost immune function and fat metabolism, the waterfall effect may be reason enough for you and your family to plan a relaxing, healing excursion to one of these natural beauties.

Cascades of Blessings,

Lisa

Mindfulness: What’s in It for Me?

Mindfulness is a way of being present: paying attention to and accepting what is happening in our lives. It helps us to be aware of and step away from our automatic and habitual reactions to our everyday experiences. ~Elizabeth Thornton

If you’re a regular reader of Micro of the Macro, you know that I often touch on the subject of mindfulness in my posts. Jon Kabat-Zinn, who studied under Thich Nhat Hanh and co-founded the Cambridge Zen Center, defines mindfulness as purposeful, nonjudgmental attention placed on the present moment. A more practical explanation, in my opinion, is paying attention as opposed to allowing unconscious behaviors to run your life. We are such creatures of habit that it’s easy to slip into mindlessness. Have you ever driven your car home from work (or vacation!) and later realized you don’t remember the drive? That’s an example of an unconscious habit taking over.

So what does it matter if your life is controlled unconsciously? Well I’m glad you asked. The big-picture answer is that by living in this manner, you are sleepwalking through your time on the planet. Each of our lives takes place within a cosmic embrace of love and blessings, if only we take the time to notice. The sound of crickets, birdsong, ocean waves, a child’s laugh; the sight of butterflies, wildflowers, and a star-lit sky; the smell of blossoming plants; the taste of fresh foods; the gentle touch of a beloved friend: all exquisite details that can be taken for granted or completely missed when we’re in auto-pilot.

Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life? ~Mary Oliver

But there’s more to that answer. Living unconsciously means that you miss out on the profusion of benefits for physical, mental, and emotional health that mindfulness offers. According to an article from the American Psychological Association, over 200 studies have shown that mindfulness is effective at boosting immune function, decreasing chronic pain, reducing stress, and helping with depression. These benefits, the article states, could be due to changes in the brain’s regulation of emotions, resulting in decreased rumination on negative thoughts. Whether you meditate, practice yoga, do tai chi, watch wildlife, work in a garden, or evoke presence in some other manner, you may discover that you’re doing wonders for your health and peace of mind.

UC Berkeley’s Greater Good Magazine shares a write-up addressing mindfulness studies that have shown positive impacts on relationships between couples as well as those between parents & children. Additionally, mindful parenting is . . . linked to more positive behavior in kids, the article says. The reduction of stress through better emotional regulation seems to be a recurring theme.

In a study from Central Michigan University, subjects that listened to mindfulness recordings were found to have decreased age and race biases as compared with control subjects. The practice allows us to rely less on previously established associations, the abstract indicates. To me, this implies that these prejudices can be broken down rather quickly, an idea with great potential for our times.

A US News & World Report article on addiction recovery speaks to the effectiveness of mindfulness meditation for reducing substance abuse, including trials that are linked to reductions in impulsivity, cravings, and relapses. A hallmark (of addicts) is that they’re very rarely in the now. They’re either regretting the past . . . or dreading the future, according to Katie Witkiewitz, professor of psychology at the University of New Mexico. The practice of mindfulness, therefore, could play an important role. However, as with most holistic modalities, more research is needed before it can be incorporated into standardized treatment.

Fortunately, research on the power of mindfulness is expanding. A Mindful Magazine essay examines the directions of a few of the leaders in the field. Planned studies include exploring the effects of mindfulness on childbirth, neurological development, memory preservation, cellular aging, and inflammation. Perhaps these researchers are working from the premise that our bodies simply function better when we pay attention to our lives. What do you think?

Learning to be present can enrich your existence and improve your health on every level. Awareness of life’s moment to moment offerings can result in big, positive results, helping you to recognize your life’s beautiful cosmic embrace. From reducing stress to strengthening relationships to helping with recovery from addiction, the benefits of mindfulness practices for you and those you love cannot be overestimated.

We need to awaken ourselves. We need to practice mindfulness if we want to have a future, if we want to save ourselves and the planet. ~Thich Nhat Hanh

Blessings for Presence,

Lisa

The Generosity of Plants

This week, I’ve begun reading The Well-Gardened Mind: The Restorative Power of Nature by Sue Stuart-Smith. The book presents various research findings on working with Nature and draws beautiful parallels between gardening and developing a healthy mindset. Stuart-Smith is a psychiatrist and psychotherapist, and her book was chosen by The Times, Britain’s oldest national daily newspaper, as one of the best books of 2020. I guess you can tell I’m pretty excited about it, as I’m not even halfway through, but already wanting to share!

Early on, the author asserts that our species emerged in the savannah landscapes of Africa, and over the course of evolution, our nervous and immune systems have been primed to function best in response to various aspects of the natural world. These aspects, she says, include the microbes we eat and breathe, the amount of sunlight we are exposed to, and the natural vegetation around us. Further, she states, When we work with nature outside us, we work with nature inside us.

Stuart-Smith shares research done with many subjects in diverse environments. She’s visited prisons to witness the difference that gardening programs have made for inmates, in some cases offering them opportunities to find work as gardeners post-release, which has been shown to lessen chances of recidivism. She also writes of a garden project done for inner-city 7-year-olds with a high rate of learning disabilities, which not only resulted in a sense of pride and accomplishment for the little ones, but also transformed their sense of self-esteem and motivation. Additionally, she addresses the use of therapeutic horticulture for those with depression, trauma, and anxiety, as studies have shown that the benefits of regular gardening are similar to those of cognitive behavioral therapy.

I am enjoying the book immensely not only because it supports the ideas of Micro of the Macro, but also because of the memories it evokes. As a small child, I often worked with my grandmother and uncle in our family garden. No matter what was going on, working in the garden brought me into the present moment, with the sweet smells of tomato vines and dark soil, the intense feel of the sun on my skin, and the sight of bumblebees attracted to the yellow squash and cucumber blooms. Years later, when I began hiking on a regular basis, I learned to treasure the smells of mountain tree blossoms and spruce needles, Ponderosa Pine bark, and an occasional deliciously earthy whiff of unknown origin. Being present in this manner provides a calming escape from past regrets and worries of the future, wouldn’t you agree?

Although we can derive amazing benefits from plants, their compassionate actions aren’t exclusively for humans. In a delightfully-written article for Bay Nature, a 20-year-old publication advocating for the good of the environment, Endria Richardson brings our attention to the generosity of the California Redwoods. Their biology, she states, does not require open-heartedness or a daily decision to be kind; it simply is, as a matter of design. This biology, or blueprint for being, can give rise to collective wellbeing: needles drop, bark is shed, a rich duff develops that protects not only one tree’s roots, but the root networks of clusters of trees. During the time I lived among the Coastal Redwoods of Sonoma County, I was fascinated to learn about their root system; their underground support of each other allows them to grow to dizzying heights and withstand high winds. On hiking trails, I also witnessed new trees sprouting from old, seemingly lifeless trunks. Richardson continues her article by writing that acts of Redwood generosity help not only other trees, but also contribute to the lives of a variety of plants, animals, birds, and berries high off the forest floor.

In an article written for the US Forest Service, we learn the extent of selflessness of the humble wildflower. They support entire ecosystems . . . Butterflies and other insects, small birds, and animals depend on seeds, nectar, and pollen for their food supply and life support, according to the write-up. Are you noticing a pattern?

Believe it or not, even weeds can demonstrate generosity! A Mother Earth News article shares that some weeds can benefit surrounding plants by protecting the soil, pulling up water and nutrients from great depths, and helping with insect control. (Check out the article to determine which weeds you should keep!)

Nature provides us with an endless array of magnanimous acts. The plant kingdom supports not only our well being, but also the health of its various members as well as other life. This generosity seems to be part of Nature’s design of plants. Working with vegetation gives us access to that life-enriching bounty.

Blessings for Generosity,

Lisa

Pope Francis, I Disagree: A Tribute to Earth Day

Beauty without grace is the hook without the bait. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson

The original version of this heavily-edited post was first shared last year. The sorrowful effects of the pandemic are on the rise again in many countries and the senseless destruction of our planet continues. The message here becomes more urgent each day.

Since he was first elected, Pope Francis has been my favorite pontiff. I’m not Catholic, but I admire the fact that he’s not afraid to regularly speak out against corruption, specifically the neglect and exploitation of our natural environment for profit, as is common on a grand scale. For these reasons and many others, I feel he is a world leader in the truest sense.

Recently, the Pope expressed his belief that coronavirus could be Nature’s response to climate change. He was quoted in a UK periodical saying, “There is an expression in Spanish: God always forgives, we forgive sometimes, but nature never forgives.” I haven’t been able to stop thinking about the last part of that statement.

In honor of Earth Day, I present my defense of Nature, and therefore, my disagreement with the Pope.

The widespread death and health decline brought about by Covid-19 is unlike any other health crisis we’ve seen in the past 100 years. I’m on board with the idea that much of the fallout may be attributed to the (internal and external) functionings of Nature struggling from abuse and neglect; it’s hard for me to fathom how so many of us ignore the simple needs of our bodies and our Earth. But I don’t agree with the words Nature never forgives.

In my opinion, our external natural environment must attempt an ongoing balance of sorts, similar to our internal Nature’s constant drive for homeostasis. (For example, when we get too cold or too hot, we shiver or sweat, which reestablishes our normal body temperature set point.) The global warming callously caused by our species is like a disease to our planet. As a result, the natural world sometimes unfolds in ways resulting in death and destruction. I believe this devastation is related to rebalancing on some level more so than Nature’s unwillingness to forgive. What do you think?

*Hope springs eternal – a revegetated Sunset Crater Volcano, Northern Arizona*

In the podcast Food Independence and Planetary Evolution, Rich Roll, author of Finding Ultra: Rejecting Middle Age, Becoming One of the World’s Fittest Men, and Discovering Myself, talks with triple-board certified Zach Bush, MD, about the wretched state of our food supply. In large part, the conversation centers around the soil-decimating and gut-destroying glyphosate (the active ingredient in Roundup weed killer which is used extensively in non-organic and non-regenerative commercial farming.) Dr. Bush, after speaking more than an hour on the sad and unjust consequences of using glyphosate and other current farming practices, shared the concept of biological grace, which he defines as the ability to heal faster than injured.

His first example of this idea relates to the microbiome of the gut. He talks about some of his clinic’s patients who, after a lifetime of damaging disregard for their health, can make a few simple changes and see health problems improve or reverse in a matter of weeks or months. These changes, including physician-monitored short-term fasting and (largely) ridding their lives of harmful chemicals, give a much-needed break to their biological systems, allowing Nature’s healing force to rush in and restore health, instantly forgiving the former myriad of abuses.

*A table at a farmers market in Taos, New Mexico*

Dr. Bush goes on to address soil health within the same paradigm. Decades of using genetically modified seeds, applying glyphosate, mono-cropping, and tilling are killing the life in our soils, resulting in, among other calamities, smaller yields with greatly reduced nutrient content. His estimates show that about 98% of the earth’s soils are now depleted in a similar manner. According to Dr. Bush, if these harmful measures are stopped, biodiversity can return to the soil within a single growing season. His team has partnered with the Soil Health Academy, and together, they have witnessed this renewal in over a million acres. In my mind, this, too, epitomizes Nature’s forgiveness.

In light of this information, I would like to say humbly, Thank you, Pope Francis, for calling the world’s attention to our ailing planet during a time of darkness like none we’ve known. But science backed by experience disproves your statement “Nature never forgives.” This clarification could critically impact our ability to overcome and move forward. Although the pandemic continues to rage, regardless of its source, I choose to work daily to achieve biological grace for the health of my body and my Planet.

Blessings for Forgiveness & Grace,

Lisa

I do not at all understand the mystery of grace – only that it meets us where we are but does not leave us where it found us. ~Anne Lamott

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