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I'm juicy.

Do you juice?

With the summer months approaching and 
the garden growing, I plan on juicing more and more.

Here are my favorite juicy concoctions.


#1 - sweet potato, gala apple, and ginger 



#2 - beets, gala apple, and ginger



#3 - kale, granny smith apple, pear, sweet potato, carrot, 
and ginger



#4 - golden beets, pear, granny smith apple, and turmeric 


I also love to combine carrots, parsnips, and ginger. 

You may have noticed I add a pinch of ginger to 
almost every juice. 
It's good for you and perks up the taste. 

Beets and sweet potatoes are my favorites to experiment with. 
Oh-and cabbage! 

What are your favorite juice recipes? Please share!

*************
Are you facing a huge transition in your life?
Are you ready to release your obstacles and step forward into the life of your choosing?
Are you kind of lost as to where to even begin? 

Book your free 20 minute consultation with me today.

Click here.


Peace, Inspiration, & Love,
~Amy
 Amy Riddle, C.C., Holistic Alchemist and Manifestor of Dreams is a life coach, tapping facilitator, reverend, creatress, teacher, writer, herbalist, and all out muse. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Alternative Medicine with an emphasis on herbs. She is a certified professional life coach with the Life Coach Institute of Orange County. Amy craves to inspire others to be healthy and whole in body, mind, and spirit. She has an affinity for striped socks, stinging nettle, and all things faery.

I Heart Herbs - Dandelion

*Please note - The information provided is collected from my various herbal books, classes, and personal research. I am not a doctor. Always, always, always consult your physician or qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment. Do your own research and think for yourself. Don't believe everything you read. Questions are good!


Dandelion
Image Credit

Latin Name: Taraxacum officinale

Plant Family: Asteraceae

Character: Bitter, cold, sweet

Constituents: asparagin, bitter glycosides, carotenoids, choline, inulin, iron and minerals, pectin, potassium, salts, selenium, sterols, tannins, vitamins A, B, C, D, E, volatile oil, and zinc

Actions: antirheumatic, cholagogue, diuretic, liver and digestive tonic, mild laxative

Parts Used: the entire herb; flowers, leaves, root

Harvest throughout growing season.


Dandelion Fairy by Cicely Mary Barker
Some people think that dandelions are just weeds - oh no - no - no.

Dandelion is medicine.

Eat it, drink it, and use it for 
healthy benefits!

The whole plant is edible.

Dandelion is great with eggs, salads, and tossed into stir fry.


Dandelion Knowledge


The name dandelion was invented in the 15th century due to the shape of the leaves resembling a lion's tooth "dens leonis".

In China, dandelion is called 
pu gong ying.

Dandelion clears heat and toxins from the blood and 
is used as a diuretic.

The leaves are rich in potassium.

The white sap from the root can be used as a 
topical wart remedy.

Dandelion root is an effective detoxifier.

The root is a wonderful liver stimulant and is used as a gentle tonic cleanser for a range of health issues.

Add fresh leaves to salads for a bitter cleansing remedy.

Puree the leaves to make a juice when diuretic action is needed.

The infusion is a great cleansing remedy for toxic conditions and a gentle liver and digestive stimulant.

The tincture from leaves is used for a failing heart to ensure adequate potassium intake.

From the root you can make a tincture or decoction for toxic conditions like acne, eczema, or gout.

Also great for liver disorders since it it a liver stimulant.


Dandelion Folklore


If you would like to experience more vivid dreams 
place dried dandelion flowers under your pillow 
or you can create a dandelion dream pillow.

Drinking dandelion tea on the full moon 
increases psychic abilities. 

Dandelion helps release blocked emotions.

It is considered good luck to carry dandelion in a wedding bouquet.



Image Credit Unknown

Folklore says that you can see 
the status of your relationship by blowing dandelion seeds.

If you blow all the seeds off 
with only one blow,
you are loved with 
a passionate love.

If some seeds remain, 
your lover has reservations about the relationship. 

If a lot of the seeds still remain,
you are loved very little or not at all.


Have you ever had a massage with dandelion oil?

It's splendid.

Dandelion oil is an excellent pain reliever that helps with back tension, stiff necks, arthritic joints, and sinus headaches.

Energetically, dandelion clears away negative energy.

It releases all emotional past yuckiness hanging around 
in your energy field.


Make Your Own Dandelion Massage Oil


All you need is dandelion flowers, jojoba oil, and a mason jar.

Jojoba oil makes an excellent base for massage oils.

Since jojoba oil is so similar to human skin oil, it tricks the skin into thinking it has produced enough oil and 
thus balances oil production.

Dry the dandelion flowers.
(tip: make sure the flowers are fully dry, 
remember water and oil = bad)

Stuff the mason jar full of the flowers. 

Cover the plant material completely with jojoba oil.

Let it sit for 4-6 weeks. 

Strain and enjoy!



Dandelion Plant Spirit Prayer

from "Plant Spirit Journey"
by Laura Silvana

Image Credit

"Joyful Spirit, full of glee, fill me, embrace me, and shelter me. 
Make this magic of the most high, grant my dreams 
unto the sky."

*************
Are you facing a huge transition in your life?
Are you ready to release your obstacles and step forward into the life of your choosing?
Are you kind of lost as to where to even begin? 

Book your free 20 minute consultation with me today.

Click here.


Peace, Inspiration, & Love,
~Amy
 Amy Riddle, C.C., Holistic Alchemist and Manifestor of Dreams is a life coach, tapping facilitator, reverend, creatress, teacher, writer, herbalist, and all out muse. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Alternative Medicine with an emphasis on herbs. She is a certified professional life coach with the Life Coach Institute of Orange County. Amy craves to inspire others to be healthy and whole in body, mind, and spirit. She has an affinity for striped socks, stinging nettle, and all things faery.

The Muse News 4-27-15


Another week is upon us - so that means it is time for
The Muse News, my newsletter.

Click here to read it!

Want it delivered directly to you?
Get on the list.
Sign up to receive The Muse News - weekly inspirations, affirmations, tapping tips, smiles, and good times.

Enjoy!
*************
Are you facing a huge transition in your life?
Are you ready to release your obstacles and step forward into the life of your choosing?
Are you kind of lost as to where to even begin? 

Book your free 20 minute consultation with me today.

Click here.


Peace, Inspiration, & Love,
~Amy
 Amy Riddle, C.C., Holistic Alchemist and Manifestor of Dreams is a life coach, tapping facilitator, reverend, creatress, teacher, writer, herbalist, and all out muse. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Alternative Medicine with an emphasis on herbs. She is a certified professional life coach with the Life Coach Institute of Orange County. Amy craves to inspire others to be healthy and whole in body, mind, and spirit. She has an affinity for striped socks, stinging nettle, and all things faery.

The Curse of Asheville


Dear Asheville,

I release you. It breaks my heart to let you go, but I must.
You are only an illusion.
You tricked me with your come-hither energy.
You won me over, body and soul.

You seduced me and all I could think about was you. 
I had to come to you. I have to move to you. It burned me up inside. I became obsessed with mountains, craft beer, herbs, cowboy boots, beards, bears, and all types of New Age healing.

You promised me all that and more. So, I moved. 
On May 1, 2009, I left Orlando for you. 

The first year our relationship was fantastic. 

I explored, I reveled in the mountain energy eager to find my community, where I belong. I got a great job with a nutrionist. I fell deeply and madly in love with a bearded god.

Cold Mountain beer flowed in abundance. Herb school became a reality. Experiencing all four seasons and having my own personal garden gave me utter joy.

Then things began to unravel.

I started 2nd guessing herb school, something didn't seem right, especially the lack of learning. 
I was let go from my job because she couldn't afford an assistant, which spiraled into the whole 

"I'm in Asheville and I can't afford ______ Syndrome".

I got 2 part time jobs to supplement my income. I was split between 2 homes dating the bearded god. 2 jobs, 2 homes, and herb school all started to make me very, very grouchy.

I spent a lot of time in SHOCK.

And it takes quite a bit to shock me. However, herb school became an utter disaster. My classmates and teachers disrupted the entire learning process. I began to realize the purpose of the school was not to learn, but to 

"bond and connect and share rainbow moments".

I'm serious about knowledge. I'm serious about learning and herbs are my true passion. One of the reasons I moved to Asheville was for herb school. I barely learned a thing. It was utterly ridiculous.

Herb school shattered my heart and cracked open a giant hole in Asheville's appearance. The door flew wide open and I began to see more and more of the negative side of this fantasty town.

It happens in all relationships, where the veils come down and you truly see who the other person is.

Asheville, I saw you were in trouble and going down a spiral.

More and more folks seduced by Asheville's whimsy have moved here - just like me.

And we are met with a brutal reality of:
- extremely low pay
- pricey restaurants (due to Asheville's excellent food and 
  popularity they all raised their prices)
- now a fight over cold mountain beer (it's getting crowded!)
- unprofessionalism
- good intentions, but no follow through
- nothing exciting to do, a boring life, unless you love banjos
- difficult to get into craft fairs
- difficult to network and most folks are all doing the same thing
- you are not unique here, everyone is "weird", so now "weird  is the new normal" 
- there is an overabundance of babies and dogs and their owners will take them EVERYWHERE, even places where babies and dogs do not belong
- it's a transient town and almost all the cool people you meet  will move away within a year or two
- now there is traffic, lots of traffic which creates traffic jams (so I have become creative and mindful with when I do things and what route I take)

So much has changed due to Asheville's popularity. Asheville is all over the food network, Good Morning America, travel magazines, and the #1 town for _______ (insert popular online list here). 

It's a blessing and a curse living here. 

It's been six years. Life changes. Asheville, you've changed and I cannot be so into you anymore.

We need a break.

I have to let you go.

You don't serve my soul anymore. You do not provide me stability financially. You do not provide me a stable community of friends. The grief and frustrations outweigh the goodness.

I'm done with you.

In closing, I would like to leave on a positive note.

Asheville, I would like to thank you for:
- Hestia, my 1st NC home
My bearded god
My lucsious garden
- NC wine country
- Max Patch, waterfalls, and mountain adventures
- My Bitch experiences
- Malaprops
- Putting me on my life coaching path
- Forcing me to find community online (all over the world)
- Forcing me to figure out multiple streams of income
- My love for kickboxing

So what now? Do I stay? Do I go?
I either need to move or travel a whole hell of a lot.
The thing is - I don't know where I want to move to yet.

For now I will focus on what I do love here and let the rest go.

Hugs and kisses,
~Amy

*************
Are you facing a huge transition in your life?
Are you ready to release your obstacles and step forward into the life of your choosing?
Are you kind of lost as to where to even begin? 

Book your free 20 minute consultation with me today.

Click here.


Peace, Inspiration, & Love,
~Amy
 Amy Riddle, C.C., Holistic Alchemist and Manifestor of Dreams is a life coach, tapping facilitator, reverend, creatress, teacher, writer, herbalist, and all out muse. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Alternative Medicine with an emphasis on herbs. She is a certified professional life coach with the Life Coach Institute of Orange County. Amy craves to inspire others to be healthy and whole in body, mind, and spirit. She has an affinity for striped socks, stinging nettle, and all things faery.

The Muse News 4-20-15

Happy Monday!
Another week is upon us - so that means it is time for
The Muse News, my newsletter.

Click here to read it!

Want it delivered directly to you?
Get on the list.
Sign up to receive The Muse News - weekly inspirations, affirmations, tapping tips, smiles, and good times.

Enjoy!


"Look deep into nature, 
and then you will understand everything better."
~Albert Einstein

*************

Are you facing a huge transition in your life?
Are you ready to release your obstacles and step forward into the life of your choosing?
Are you kind of lost as to where to even begin? 

Book your free 20 minute consultation with me today.

Click here.


Peace, Inspiration, & Love,
~Amy
 Amy Riddle, C.C., Holistic Alchemist and Manifestor of Dreams is a life coach, tapping facilitator, reverend, creatress, teacher, writer, herbalist, and all out muse. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Alternative Medicine with an emphasis on herbs. She is a certified professional life coach with the Life Coach Institute of Orange County. Amy craves to inspire others to be healthy and whole in body, mind, and spirit. She has an affinity for striped socks, stinging nettle, and all things faery.

The Muse News 4-13-15

Happy Monday!
Another week is upon us - so that means it is time for
The Muse News, my newsletter.

Click here to read it!

Want it delivered directly to you?
Get on the list.
Sign up to receive The Muse News - weekly inspirations, affirmations, tapping tips, smiles, and good times.

Enjoy!



"Take care of your body. It's the only place you have to live."
~Jim Rohn
Tweet that.

*************
Are you facing a huge transition in your life?
Are you ready to release your obstacles and step forward into the life of your choosing?
Are you kind of lost as to where to even begin? 

Book your free 20 minute consultation with me today.

Click here.


Peace, Inspiration, & Love,
~Amy
 Amy Riddle, C.C., Holistic Alchemist and Manifestor of Dreams is a life coach, tapping facilitator, reverend, creatress, teacher, writer, herbalist, and all out muse. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Alternative Medicine with an emphasis on herbs. She is a certified professional life coach with the Life Coach Institute of Orange County. Amy craves to inspire others to be healthy and whole in body, mind, and spirit. She has an affinity for striped socks, stinging nettle, and all things faery.

Essential Oils for Meditation

Aromatherapy can be used to deepen 
your meditation experience.

I love incorporating smell with my meditations. 

Essential oils have been an integral part of religious and
spiritual practices throughout history.

Here are 12 essential oils that you are going to wanna try out to take your meditation practice to new levels. 



12 Essential Oils that can 
Enhance your Meditation Experience 

Bergamot essential oil reduces worry and anxious feelings. It eases the stress of everyday life. 

Cedarwood essential oil calms and soothes the nerves. It is very grounding. 

Chamomile essential oil takes the heat out of any situation and can soothe frayed nerves. 

Clary Sage essential oil is purifying and cleansing. The sweet, soothing aroma brings tranquility to one's being. 

Eucalyptus essential oil clears the head and revives the body. 

Frankincense essential oil enhances enlightenment and connects the spirit with the divine. 

Geranium essential oil restores a sense of harmony and equilibrium. It is considered to be a great balancer oil. 

Jasmine essential oil relieves anxiety and uplifts the spirit with its exotic warm aroma. 

Lavender essential oil soothes and calms the mind promoting relaxation and natural balance. 

Neroli essential oil calms nerves and boost self-confidence. 

Rose essential oil soothes emotions and worries. 

Sandalwood essential oil brings a deep state of relaxation that takes place on the spiritual level. It calms, relaxes, lifts depression, and banishes anxiety. Sandalwood cools and calms the mind and body. Apply a few drops of sandalwood essential oil to the third eye to empower your meditation experience. It increases devotion and awakens intelligence. Sandalwood increases a sense of peace in meditation and prayer. The ultimate meditation essential oil, in my opinion, is sandalwood. 

Meditation brings deep relaxation, inner peace, and balance. 

Image Credit

When we are earthed, centered, and connected in a meditative state we are part of the universal whole.

For simple meditation guidance, read:
"Meditation is Good for the Soul".


*************
Are you facing a huge transition in your life?
Are you ready to release your obstacles and step forward into the life of your choosing?
Are you kind of lost as to where to even begin? 

Book your free 20 minute consultation with me today.

Click here.


Peace, Inspiration, & Love,
~Amy
 Amy Riddle, C.C., Holistic Alchemist and Manifestor of Dreams is a life coach, tapping facilitator, reverend, creatress, teacher, writer, herbalist, and all out muse. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Alternative Medicine with an emphasis on herbs. She is a certified professional life coach with the Life Coach Institute of Orange County. Amy craves to inspire others to be healthy and whole in body, mind, and spirit. She has an affinity for striped socks, stinging nettle, and all things faery.

The Muse News 4-6-15

Happy Monday!
Another week is upon us - so that means it is time for
The Muse News, my newsletter.

Click here to read it!

Want it delivered directly to you?
Get on the list.
Sign up to receive The Muse News - weekly inspirations, affirmations, tapping tips, smiles, and good times.

Enjoy!


*************
Are you facing a huge transition in your life?
Are you ready to release your obstacles and step forward into the life of your choosing?
Are you kind of lost as to where to even begin? 

Book your free 20 minute consultation with me today.

Click here.


Peace, Inspiration, & Love,
~Amy
 Amy Riddle, C.C., Holistic Alchemist and Manifestor of Dreams is a life coach, tapping facilitator, reverend, creatress, teacher, writer, herbalist, and all out muse. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Alternative Medicine with an emphasis on herbs. She is a certified professional life coach with the Life Coach Institute of Orange County. Amy craves to inspire others to be healthy and whole in body, mind, and spirit. She has an affinity for striped socks, stinging nettle, and all things faery.

Honor Your Individuality


Chris and I ventured to a special orchid show at 
The NC Arboretum last Friday.

I became entranced with their beauty. 
fell in love with each orchid, admiring their unique traits.

And I realized orchids are like us. 

Orchids come in all shapes, sizes, and colors.
All so different, all so beautiful. 

Just like us.

We are all unique. 



We are all beautiful. 

We are all blessed with our very own special characteristcs.

All different, all beautiful in our own way.

And that made me smile.



*************
Are you facing a huge transition in your life?
Are you ready to release your obstacles and step forward into the life of your choosing?
Are you kind of lost as to where to even begin? 

Book your free 20 minute consultation with me today.

Click here.


Peace, Inspiration, & Love,
~Amy
 Amy Riddle, C.C., Holistic Alchemist and Manifestor of Dreams is a life coach, tapping facilitator, reverend, creatress, teacher, writer, herbalist, and all out muse. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Alternative Medicine with an emphasis on herbs. She is a certified professional life coach with the Life Coach Institute of Orange County. Amy craves to inspire others to be healthy and whole in body, mind, and spirit. She has an affinity for striped socks, stinging nettle, and all things faery.