The Most Critical Moment

There have been several science fiction writers that have told the story of a time when the existence of our planet is threatened by an external force. All of humanity joins together as One to protect the very essence of life as we know it. We put aside our differences. Differences in religion, politics and opinions in general. We finally realize how close we truly are and how much our world depends on our Unity.

The boundaries that we had created across the land, within our minds and within our hearts...simply vanish...as if they never existed. We know at that very moment, that we are part of a global family. That we are meant to share this vast and beautiful world with all the life that it has to offer.

And as we look towards the horizon, we appreciate it for all that it is.

...Our home...
Realizing that no individual, no group and no region should be seen as separate. That we are all connected and it is intended that we support one another. We know that we must defend our home and our family with all the energy and resources that we have. That we must comfort and care for those that are suffering, regardless of their origin.

These writers of science fiction, have peered into a future that brings forth the most critical moment. A moment that forces humanity to embrace one another and open our hearts to the comfort and power of boundless Unity.

I often look towards the past for lessons, so that I can make better decisions now.

If we look at the history of humanity to clearly understand the impact of the mistakes we’ve made (and continue to make). The decision to draw lines between each other and our environment, may present one of the most valuable lessons we can apply to human life as it stands today. And better yet, apply to all life as we know it.

The lesson is simple. We must recognize and resist the illusion of separateness, and live each day as if we have reached the most critical moment.

For many, the magnitude of reaching such a goal on a global scale creates a feeling of discouragement. But why? All the inspiring, yet large scale changes that have come to pass, started with a light shining in the mind of a highly spirited individual.

Each and every one of us carry the light of Unity within...we simply need to let it shine.

So that one day, the realization described above, is not one of fiction. But rather the basis of a world where future generations can look upon ours, as the bringers of absolute peace. And they can always look towards us for the most valuable lessons of all.

Simple Remedies for Common Ailments - Issue #1

After nearly a decade of research dedicated to holistic health and supplements, it seems that I've inadvertently made myself into somewhat of a supplement/herbal remedy "guinea pig". Through many years of trials with both successes and failures, there have been a few remedies that have proven quite positive for me. Some of those "failures" have been due to side effects that just were not something I wanted to tolerate and some just didn't do anything at all.

The following include some of those remedies that for me, have been highly effective with no (or minimal) side effects. This list will build over time, so look forward to updates in the near future. But please note that this is based on my own personal experiences and although I am currently training to be a Holistic Health Practitioner, it's important to remember that everyone's body is quite different. Therefore it is recommended that you consult your doctor (who knows your current medical status best), prior to trying any of these for yourself. 

1) Oil of Oregano (Pure, combined with extra virgin olive oil)

For many years I suffered from sinus infections, seasonal allergies and general upper respiratory ailments. I discovered this remedy about two years ago and it has completely eliminated my seasonal allergy symptoms and stopped every sinus infection I've had in it's tracks (or at least reduced the duration if I started the remedy a bit late). The process is quite simple, as soon as I have symptoms I begin my course of Oregano Oil until the symptoms subside. For me, the dosage is four drops under the tongue, three times per day. It tends to create a fairly intense sensation after about 30 seconds, so I usually drink a glass of water shortly after. Often, the very next day I will wake and be completely amazed that I no longer have symptoms and others, I at least find that the symptoms have been reduced significantly. 

Studies have shown that Oil of Oregano is a promising treatment for bacterial, fungal, and parasitic infections. I personally have not yet found this to be effective on gastrointestinal viruses. Although, those seem to be one of the most difficult common illnesses to treat - even conventional medicine has yet to offer any options. However, it is important to note that when your body is compromised by a virus, there is a strain on your immune system. So this is a time when bacteria can gain an advantage over your defenses. So if possible, I use this to assist my immune system during this time of extreme stress.  

To maximize the benefits, it's important to drink eight glasses of water each day that you use Oregano Oil.

I've also used Oregano Oil topically (with success) on the following:

• Psoriasis
• Insect bite
• Blemishes (never close to the eyes or nasal passages)
• Muscle Aches
  

I prefer the Natural Factors brand, due to the reasonable cost and quality of the product. I've found others to be quite costly, although they use the same ingredients. If you happen to purchase another brand, it's important to choose one that has "wild-crafted Mediterranean species", is mixed with olive oil and has a minimum of 80% carvacrol. 

If pregnant or nursing, or taking medication, consult your healthcare practitioner before use

This statement has not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

 

Click Here for Natural Factors Oil of Oregano

 Some side effects may include:

• If you are allergic to thyme, basil, marjoram and of course oregano - you should avoid taking Oregano Oil
• Oregano could potentially reduce your body's ability to absorb iron
• Oregano oil may irritate sensitive skin

Wishing you well,
- Ivan Becker - www.AsSpirit.com 

Help for the Lakota

As I embarked on the As Spirit movement, I knew that we would need to quickly select a group that would receive contributions generated from our Spiritwear promotional items, as well as upcoming events that are currently in the planning phase. I must admit that it was not easy, as there are so very many in need and selecting just one felt so limiting. But we have to start somewhere and that somewhere seems to have found it's way into my heart, without me having to look too hard at all.

This whole initiative thus far has been driven by intuition, by just letting the ideas flow to the surface. Once again, that intuition has connected me to goals that feel so right, and I know that I must push forward. 

As I was simply navigating videos across the internet, I came across one that just stood out in the search results. It wasn't something I was searching for, yet I was immediately drawn to it. The video was focused on a group that has always triggered a deep emotional and spiritual energy within me. With that connection being so apparent, this video not only captured my attention....but locked me into a long standing research mission. A mission that for one, confirmed the information detailed in that video and also uncovered an incredibly sad and disgraceful history....A history that took place right here in the United States. A history, that I (and most people) had been shielded from in all the years I was in school and it was not included in any of the history books I had ever been exposed to. 

To say the least, I am completely blown away by truths that have been uncovered and the unfortunate reality, that the foundation of this nation is partially built upon such ignominious events.

The video was focused on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota. The land where the native Lakota people were "placed" after being "conquered" by Europeans that so selfishly and unnecessarily pulled the homes and land from beneath the Lakota's feet.  A people that were so dedicated to their environment and truly appreciated nature - so in touch with the energy of spirit - forced into and more so destroyed by a society focused primarily on material gain and personal (temporary) satisfaction, at any cost. And what a price that was paid, with lives of the Lakota and so many other native people across this continent.

I have seen many articles and videos that have indicated that these reservations should have in fact been named prison camps. As the twisted history continued on far beyond the days when they were forced to settle in these locations.
 
It brings me to tears to think of the suffering that these people have endured at the hands of greed, as it does in any similar situation across this planet. Where greed overpowers compassion to such extremes that humans view others as mere obstacles. Clearly, empathy was lost in blindness of human ego and the light and culture of a people that were more spiritually in tune with their surroundings than most could ever be at this stage - grew so dim....so dim that some have become almost completely consumed by darkness. 


I've shared some of videos and links below that I have found - please, if you have the time watch and read through them. 


Some might be quick to assume, that it's their fault at this point in time....But if you understand how they reached this reality you will realize how much (and how many times) they actually tried to rebuild what they once were and how they were constantly pushed back. 

What can you do when you are left with almost nothing? No resources, as they too were stolen completely from the land which was supposedly set aside for your people. 

I feel that we need to step up and help bring these people back into the light. 


I can only imagine how different this nation and this world would be if the culture and spiritual beliefs of the Native Americans had kept pace with our technological advancements - I can only imagine...

Some recent statistics around the Pine Ridge reservation:

• 90% live below federal poverty line
• The infant mortality rate is the highest on this continent
• 60% of homes are infested with black mold
• The life expectancy of a man is 46-48 years old (currently overall the US average is 78)
• 85-90% are unemployed
• Many freeze to death, as they do not have any source of heat at all 
  

As Spirit will donate 100% of all revenue received from our Spiritwear clothing throughout March of 2011 to help the Pine Ridge Reservation. Visit http://AsSpirit.com/shop.html



A very informative presentation from Aaron Huey (watch this first):

The video that first captured my attention:



 

• Follow Friends of Pine Ridge on twitter - http://twitter.com/FoPRR 
• Friends of Pine Ridge - http://friendsofpineridgereservation.org/

Perspective

"For just a moment look at someone you care about and consider that they are in fact a part of you...your "self"...That someone could be family, a friend, a pet...You may be surprised how easy it is to feel that this is true. Now imagine if this was how we looked at all those we see...how entirely different our world would be..." - www.AsSpirit.com - November 2010

When we finally realize who we truly are, our light begins to shine in all the life that surrounds us.

A plan for today

Today...

- I will resist greed & inhibit selfishness.
- I will do my best to help others & hurt no one.
- I will be true to my heart and not be limited to the restrictions of external acceptance.
- I will express my love in light, openly...and will not suppress it in the darkness of anxiety.

- I will evolve the very essence of my being, by exposing my spirit...as I continue to move forward through this human experience.