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12/25/2020

Can Compassion can change your brain?

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"Compassion is in our blood" -The Dalai Lama

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Compassion is truly a phenomenal and miraculous entity. When embraced as a core foundation of how we navigate life, compassion positively impacts our brain function and thus the quality of our reality!  Some may see compassion as an emotion, others a religious/spiritual application, while positive psychology scholars see it as a strength for thriving and Buddhists see it as a way of life. So, how do you see it? What does compassion mean to you?

"Compassion is in our blood," the Dalai Lama says. Living in a state of compassion is one of the Buddhist sublime states. After a meeting with the Dalai Lama, neuroscientist, Richard Davidson, stopped studying anxiety and depression pathologies and instead began researching and examining compassion and loving-kindness. He was fascinated with his findings, concluding that "compassion is a kind of state that involves the body in a major way." Studies and research shows that engaging in a compassionate state, specifically through compassion meditation, activates the anterior insula part of the brain, an important center where brain-body coordination takes place. During this state you find high-amplitude gamma-oscillations in the brain, which increase the brain's capacity for change, learning and resilience.

In energy medicine, the Anahata heart chakra represents love and compassion for ourselves and others. So, a balanced heart space is lovingly accepting the self and feeling compassionate to others in spite of the pain or sadness in our lives. In western medicine, compassion-focused therapy (cft) is a life changing method of treatment for mental illness that helps patients gain control over self-criticism and self-doubt. Compassion is has proven to be a miraculous therapeutic tool of wellness, spiritually, physically and mentally in all schools of thought around the world!

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Practicing Compassion

​Compassion is a heartfelt wish that all beings be free from suffering and the causes of suffering. Consciously practicing empathy towards the self and others leads to compassion and compassionate states of being.

1. Generosity
Showing kindness and generosity to help those who need us is a powerful way to practice compassion. "There are systematic changes in the brain that are associate with acts of generosity," Davidson says. Generosity when you are able is a way to engage in the energetic homeostasis of our world and to help others. When we put out good intentions and energy into the universe, it feels good because it is good. Just like a tree will share its nutrients if it's neighbor tree is sick, so will it receive the same in return when its ecosystem is thriving again. Give where you can, and when in need, receive as well!

2. Self-examination 
Growing and evolving through compassion involves engaging in a deep rigorous compassionate process of self-examination which lends clarity to your mind and heart. To access and practice compassion, take inventory of your heart space and engage in the process of making peace with anything that may be holding you back from the full power of compassion. Ask yourself: What prevents me from feeling love and compassion? This process is largely highlighted in yoga philosophy, through practicing the niyamas and yamas, which are methods of how to conduct the self within the self and conduct yourself within your environment. 

3. Embody Courage
Why do some people feel worthy of compassion and love while others don't? The answer to this question lies in the positive psychology strength of courage. To expand the consciousness through compassion,  courage to be imperfect has to be practiced. It involves embracing vulnerability and being compassionate to the self. Have courage to ask yourself hard questions, and have courage to confront and heal whatever it is that is holding you back. A compassionate state, within the self and outside of the self, requires a sense of courage to see that what makes you vulnerable makes you beautiful.

4. Gratitude
Practice the power of GRATITUDE! Through gratitude and a grateful heart, embracing compassion towards the self and all beings comes naturally! For more education on the power of gratitude and how to practice, check out our blog article Is Gratitude a Super Power !

5. Empathy
Compassion is born from empathy. Empathy is about taking a moment to put yourself in someone else's shoes, to listen and try to genuinely understand where they are coming from. Once you access empathy for all beings, you can ignite your inner compassion and send them loving, compassionate energy. Tied into empathy is the concept of judgment. Judging the self or others harshly can be a heavy burden and a dark habit, it is a tendency of the ego. When we put the judgment down and pick of the torch of empathy and compassion, it is like a new power within is lit and liberation pours over the self. 

6. LOVE
See through a lens of love. Put on your love glasses, ESPECIALLY when you don't want to! Try to see all beings and situations with love. This ties in with the practicing empathy and setting the self free through non-judgment.

7. Meditation
Many of the studies mentioned above were done on groups after practicing compassion meditations and on spiritual monks who actively live compassionately on a daily basis. Check out the compassion meditation below!

COMPassion Meditation

Begin by breathing deeply and using the breath to access the sensation and sentiment of compassion. Use compassion to clear your mind of worry.
Become aware of a loved one, some who you love deeply and notice how this love feels in your heart. Notice any sensations within the heart space while love is present. Allow yourself to sincerely wish them well, even saying "May you be free, may you be free from suffering, may you be happy, truly truly happy, may you be free." Feel compassion pour from the self to that person, visualizing extending a golden light from your heart to that person.
Repeat this practice with a neutral person (acquaintance)
Repeat with someone with whom you have difficulty in your life (an enemy perhaps)
Repeat this towards all beings of the universe
Repeat this towards the self 

Allow compassion to envelope your entire body and consciousness. Deep breaths as you send compassion to all beings, to the self and to the world.

Mantra Chant

Chant aloud, feeling the vibration of your voice empower the mantra through your mind and body
"YAM" (YAHM)
Want to kick up your meditation practice and see how it can affect your life? Join us for our Heavily Meditated class on Wednesdays, live-streamed for access wherever you are! To reserve your spot, click HERE
Can't make a saturday class? We have meditations on demand! Explore HERE

Sources and Medical Journals:
Shonin, E., Van Gordon, W., Compare, A. et al. Buddhist-Derived Loving-Kindness and Compassion Meditation for the Treatment of Psychopathology: a Systematic Review. Mindfulness 6, 1161–1180 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s12671-014-0368-1
 
Lutz A, Brefczynski-Lewis J, Johnstone T, Davidson RJ (2008) Regulation of the Neural Circuitry of Emotion by Compassion Meditation: Effects of Meditative Expertise. PLoS ONE 3(3): e1897. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0001897
 
R. J. Davidson and A. Lutz, "Buddha's Brain: Neuroplasticity and Meditation [In the Spotlight]," in IEEE Signal Processing Magazine, vol. 25, no. 1, pp. 176-174, 2008, doi: 10.1109/MSP.2008.4431873.



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12/4/2020

10 reasons why you need rosemary in your life

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The rich therapeutic benefits of Rosemary

Let’s talk about Rosemary! What’s the deal with this little puzzle piece to our health that grows plentiful from our Earth? Rosemary is a favorite herb for cooking to kick in some extra flavor, but it also offers an array of health benefits. It is interesting to think that this herb tastes good to us because our body is trying to encourage us to take part in it. Native to the Mediterranean, rosemary is now embraced in cultures and medicine all over the world. Let’s explore the best ways to use Rosemary, the benefits and how it can be a game changer for your mind and body!
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Methods of Rosemary Intake:
  1. Topically- Rosemary can be infused into salves, bath soaks and oils! Massage your favorite rosemary lotion/salve into your skin for nourishment or soak in infused bath salt. You can explore all CBD enhanced rosemary topicals HERE including salves, soaks and aromatherapy roller bottles!
  2. Tea- Steep your favorite rosemary tea and enjoy!
  3. Extract- This method of Rosemary intake allow you to add it to your water or juice up to 5 times a day! 
  4. Cooking- Add dried rosemary and/or rosemary infused oils, broths, and sauces to your recipes! Check out some recipes HERE!
  5. Aromatherapy- Add Rosemary essential oils to an aromatherapy diffuser! You can also rub a rosemary infused oil into your palms, cup over your face and take deep breaths. You can find a pure Rosemary infused oil HERE​

     4. Cooking- Add dried rosemary and/or rosemary infused oils, broths, and sauces to your recipes! Check out some recipes HERE!!
    5. Aromatherapy- Add Rosemary essential oils to an aromatherapy diffuser! You can also rub a rosemary infused oil into your palms, cup over your face and take deep breaths. You can find a pure Rosemary infused oil HERE​
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Professionally designed therapeutic products infused with pure rosemary
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 Therapeutic Benefits 
  1. Improves brain function: Studies have found that when Rosemary enters the blood stream via any of the methods listed above, cognitive function is improved![1] It prevents the breakdown of acetylcholine, a brain chemical that is vital to our memory and concentration[2]. Due to the positive effects Rosemary has on neurological and cognitive function, research has found that Rosemary benefits those suffering with Alzheimer’s Disease![3] Rosemary compounds have also been shown to prevent the death of brain cells with neuro-cell protective properties. Not only does Rosemary improve brain function, but it inhibits brain aging and reduces inflammation in the brain.[4]
  2. Pain Relief: Rosemary has been used in medicine for pain relief forever! Research show these analgesic (pain relief) properties through studies of pain symptoms in stroke victims, animal studies comparing its effects to modern medications, localized pain surveys and so much more! [5]  Rosemary was proven to be even more effective than acetaminophen, the active analgesic ingredient in Tylenol that reduces pain and fever. [6] It is often a go-to for migraines and headaches in natural and herbal medicine. These studies inspired our Full Moon CBD Salve, a Rosemary salve aiming to relieve and soothe pain and tension in the body.
  3. Increases circulation: Using thermal imaging, studies show that Rosemary infused oils increase circulation. Rosemary dilates the blood vessels and relaxes the tissue, increasing fluid flow in our body. [7]
  4. Soothes stress, anxiety and depression: When it comes to grounding and having a tool on hand for low spirits, rosemary is your herb! While testing the effects of rosemary on memory, researchers also found that this herb soothed the nerves and reduced anxiety in nursing students going into testing.(2) Research shows that rosemary decreases cortisol levels, the hormone released in our body when we are in chronic stress! [8] We created the Grounded CBD Aromatherapy roller bottle as a tool you can tuck into your purse or briefcase for rosemary application on the go for those stressful moments!
  5. Reduces inflammation: Rosemary is a source rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds! Studies show it can reduce inflammation in our cells and tissues.[9] Specifically with different types of arthritis, rosemary has had incredible results reducing symptoms of inflammation and pain.[10] It can help as not only a treatment for ailments involving inflammation, but also as preventive and prophylactic care.[11] These studies inspired our powerful Sunrise CBD Salve, which pairs rosemary and wild orange with CBD infused oils to reduce inflammation and nourish the lymphatic system! Our Thunder CBD Bath Soak was also inspired by this, created specifically to help autoimmune ailments, arthritis and any condition that has symptoms of inflammation.
  6. Improves digestion: Rosemary can nourish our digestive and liver function.[12] Rosemary is specifically beneficial for our digestion with eating Rosemary in foods or as an extract additive or supplement, Rosemary has incredible benefits for the circulation and efficiency of our digestive system!
  7. Increases energy levels: This herb can reduce fatigue and mental strain! Changes in brain waves, breathing patterns and an increase in heart rate are attributed to this increase in alertness.[13] Research shows not only an increase in energetic feelings but also an increase in cheerfulness!
  8. Bug repellent: Rosemary is often used as a bug repellent, especially on plants as the herb does not harm the plant. Studies have shown it as an effective and natural repellent against mosquitos[14] and also ticks![15]
  9. Stimulates Hair Growth: The application of Rosemary on the scalp has been shown to increase hair growth and relieve symptoms of an itchy scalp![16] Many of these studies revolve around the condition Alopecia, a condition causing baldness. In these cases, rosemary prevents testosterone from attacking the hair follicles.[17] Most of these studies involve participants massaging rosemary into their scalp and hair every day for seven or more months! These studies are the inspiration behind our Flow CBD Hair Mask, an herbal product that incorporates 14 different ingredients also known for scalp and hair health!
  10. Anti-cancer and anti-tumor properties: WOAH, studies have shown that the compounds in Rosemary have the potential to fight cancer cells![18] In a study of cervical cancer cells, Rosemary was found to have cytoxic effects on cancer cells.[19] Further studies have confirmed the potential Rosemary has to fight cancer cells as an alternative medicine to integrate into Western medical treatment[20]
 
 
Precautions:       
It is always important to consult your physician before incorporating rosemary into your routine. We have seen that rosemary has the potential to be powerful, and it can be contraindicated for certain medications and conditions. It’s also important to start small with your intake of a new herb, to make sure you don’t have any adverse reactions, such as nausea, or allergies.

Sources:
[1] Moss, Mark, and Lorraine Oliver. “Plasma 1,8-cineole correlates with cognitive performance following exposure to rosemary essential oil aroma.” Therapeutic advances in psychopharmacology vol. 2,3 (2012): 103-13. doi:10.1177/2045125312436573
[2] McCaffrey R, Thomas DJ, Kinzelman AO. The effects of lavender and rosemary essential oils on test-taking anxiety among graduate nursing students. Holist Nurs Pract. 2009 Mar-Apr;23(2):88-93. doi: 10.1097/HNP.0b013e3181a110aa. PMID: 19258850.
[3] Jimbo D, Kimura Y, Taniguchi M, Inoue M, Urakami K. Effect of aromatherapy on patients with Alzheimer's disease. Psychogeriatrics. 2009 Dec;9(4):173-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1479-8301.2009.00299.x. PMID: 20377818.
[4] Habtemariam, Solomon. “The Therapeutic Potential of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) Diterpenes for Alzheimer's Disease.” Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM vol. 2016 (2016): 2680409. doi:10.1155/2016/2680409
[5] Shin BC, Lee MS. Effects of aromatherapy acupressure on hemiplegic shoulder pain and motor power in stroke patients: a pilot study. J Altern Complement Med. 2007 Mar;13(2):247-51. doi: 10.1089/acm.2006.6189. PMID: 17388768.
[6] Raskovic A, Milanovic I, Pavlovic N, Milijasevic B, Ubavic M, Mikov M. Analgesic effects of rosemary essential oil and its interactions with codeine and paracetamol in mice. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. 2015 Jan;19(1):165-72. PMID: 25635991.
[7] Von Schoen-Angerer T, Deckers B, Henes J, Helmert E, Vagedes J. Effect of topical rosemary essential oil on Raynaud phenomenon in systemic sclerosis. Complement Ther Med. 2018 Oct;40:191-194. doi: 10.1016/j.ctim.2017.10.012. Epub 2017 Nov 1. PMID: 30219447.
[8] Atsumi T, Tonosaki K. Smelling lavender and rosemary increases free radical scavenging activity and decreases cortisol level in saliva. Psychiatry Res. 2007 Feb 28;150(1):89-96. doi: 10.1016/j.psychres.2005.12.012. Epub 2007 Feb 7. PMID: 17291597.
[9] Andrade JM, Faustino C, Garcia C, Ladeiras D, Reis CP, Rijo P. Rosmarinus officinalis L.: an update review of its phytochemistry and biological activity. Future Sci OA. 2018 Feb 1;4(4):FSO283. doi: 10.4155/fsoa-2017-0124. PMID: 29682318; PMCID: PMC5905578.
[10] Gok Metin Z, Ozdemir L. The Effects of Aromatherapy Massage and Reflexology on Pain and Fatigue in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Pain Manag Nurs. 2016 Apr;17(2):140-9. doi: 10.1016/j.pmn.2016.01.004. Epub 2016 Apr 16. PMID: 27091583.
[11] de Oliveira JR, Camargo SEA, de Oliveira LD. Rosmarinus officinalis L. (rosemary) as therapeutic and prophylactic agent. J Biomed Sci. 2019 Jan 9;26(1):5. doi: 10.1186/s12929-019-0499-8. PMID: 30621719; PMCID: PMC6325740.
[12] Rašković A, Milanović I, Pavlović N, Ćebović T, Vukmirović S, Mikov M. Antioxidant activity of rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.) essential oil and its hepatoprotective potential. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2014 Jul 7;14:225. doi: 10.1186/1472-6882-14-225. PMID: 25002023; PMCID: PMC4227022.
[13] Sayorwan W, Ruangrungsi N, Piriyapunyporn T, Hongratanaworakit T, Kotchabhakdi N, Siripornpanich V. Effects of inhaled rosemary oil on subjective feelings and activities of the nervous system. Sci Pharm. 2013 Apr-Jun;81(2):531-42. doi: 10.3797/scipharm.1209-05. Epub 2012 Dec 23. PMID: 23833718; PMCID: PMC3700080.
[14] Gillij YG, Gleiser RM, Zygadlo JA. Mosquito repellent activity of essential oils of aromatic plants growing in Argentina. Bioresour Technol. 2008 May;99(7):2507-15. doi: 10.1016/j.biortech.2007.04.066. Epub 2007 Jun 20. PMID: 17583499.
[15] Rand PW, Lacombe EH, Elias SP, Lubelczyk CB, St Amand T, Smith RP Jr. Trial of a minimal-risk botanical compound to control the vector tick of Lyme disease. J Med Entomol. 2010 Jul;47(4):695-8. doi: 10.1603/me09283. PMID: 20695287.
[16] Harries MJ, Sun J, Paus R, King LE Jr. Management of alopecia areata. BMJ. 2010 Jul 23;341:c3671. doi: 10.1136/bmj.c3671. PMID: 20656774; PMCID: PMC3230136.
[17] Murata K, Noguchi K, Kondo M, Onishi M, Watanabe N, Okamura K, Matsuda H. Promotion of hair growth by Rosmarinus officinalis leaf extract. Phytother Res. 2013 Feb;27(2):212-7. doi: 10.1002/ptr.4712. Epub 2012 Apr 20. PMID: 22517595.
[18] Jardak M, Elloumi-Mseddi J, Aifa S, Mnif S. Chemical composition, anti-biofilm activity and potential cytotoxic effect on cancer cells of Rosmarinus officinalis L. essential oil from Tunisia. Lipids Health Dis. 2017 Oct 2;16(1):190. doi: 10.1186/s12944-017-0580-9. PMID: 28969677; PMCID: PMC5625792.
[19] Santos PA, Avanço GB, Nerilo SB, Marcelino RI, Janeiro V, Valadares MC, Machinski M. Assessment of Cytotoxic Activity of Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis L.), Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), and Ginger (Zingiber officinale R.) Essential Oils in Cervical Cancer Cells (HeLa). ScientificWorldJournal. 2016;2016:9273078. doi: 10.1155/2016/9273078. Epub 2016 Nov 30. PMID: 28042599; PMCID: PMC5155122.
[20] Wang W, Li N, Luo M, Zu Y, Efferth T. Antibacterial activity and anticancer activity of Rosmarinus officinalis L. essential oil compared to that of its main components. Molecules. 2012 Mar 5;17(3):2704-13. doi: 10.3390/molecules17032704. PMID: 22

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