AmandaGore http://www.amandagore.com Wed, 16 May 2012 00:29:08 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=3.1.3 The most important thing in your life! http://www.amandagore.com/the-most-important-thing-in-your-life/ http://www.amandagore.com/the-most-important-thing-in-your-life/#comments Wed, 28 Mar 2012 01:21:57 +0000 admin http://www.amandagore.com/?p=746 THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IN YOUR LIFE…..

It’s a big statement…BUT…I believe it’s true!  The most important thing is life is how you feel about yourself!

Think about it….if you have ever been in love – how did you feel in the early days of the relationship?  Fabulous! Life was great – everything looked wonderful; things just flowed; people were nicer and kinder and more interesting!; you laughed more; others loved being around you – you vibrated at a higher level which was very attractive to others.

All because ‘someone loved you’.  No – it was because Read more

]]> THE MOST IMPORTANT THING IN YOUR LIFE…..

It’s a big statement…BUT…I believe it’s true!  The most important thing is life is how you feel about yourself!

Think about it….if you have ever been in love – how did you feel in the early days of the relationship?  Fabulous! Life was great – everything looked wonderful; things just flowed; people were nicer and kinder and more interesting!; you laughed more; others loved being around you – you vibrated at a higher level which was very attractive to others.

All because ‘someone loved you’.  No – it was because YOU FELL IN LOVE WITH YOURSELF!

When you are surrounded by the adoration of another who thinks you are amazing, witty, funny, sexy, charming, clever and capable and all those others things we think our perfect partner is, you feel wonderful!

And every thing else changes!

Or think of a time when you were filled with purpose and meaning – you were on a mission! You were working towards something you really believed in or you enjoyed doing. Other people were not nearly so aggravating! Things flowed. People thought you were interesting!  Life was great!

THE THREE MAIN FEARS THAT UNDERPIN MOST PEOPLE’S LIFE ISSUES.

I believe that they three key unconscious fears that drive people’s lives are

1. I am not good enough/I am not worth loving

2. I am unsafe in some way

3. Death or separation

Remember, most of us are unconscious of those fears…and there are many layers between them and our awareness and many things we can ‘blame’. But keep digging down from the issues we have in our lives and I bet you end up in the darkness of “I am not good enough” or “I am not worth loving”.  With those core fears driving us a huge range of negative states emerge…

Jealousy

Depression

Anxiety

Stress

Anger

Poor self esteem

Needing endless approval

Never trying anything new

Beating ourselves up as failures

Resenting others

Fearing change

Unhappy relationships

Divorce

Alcoholism or drug dependancy

Feeling a lack of control

Being a control freak

Performance anxiety

And about a zillion other issues people deal with daily!

AL ANON AND FAIRY STORIES

At 53, I found myself in someones home, where there was a history of alcoholism. They had the AL Anon ‘Bible’ on the table and I wondered what it was! Glancing through it began life part 2 for me! I realised that although I believed I had a great childhood, my father was an alcoholic (they split when I was five)and according to this book, I was exhibiting a whole lot of ‘adult children of alcoholics’ behaviour!

Then when my Mum died, I learned that she has been ill and left us for a year when I was about three. Along with many other pieces of a puzzle, I realised that at 3, I told myself the fairy story that I was not worth loving cos Mummy had gone away and Daddy didn’t love me!  Neither of which was true – but at 3, that’s all that made sense to me. And so the belief became the ‘fairy’ story I told myself about myself!!  That I was not worth loving.

And it has brought me many great lessons in life!!

It’s interesting that these fears really are fairy stories we tell ourselves! It’s not the truth – it’s just the perception of a three or four year old.

I had no capacity at that time to discern or understand that neither my mothers absence nor my fathers drinking were my fault! But you don’t know that when you are 3 or 4!

In fact – I didn’t realise it till I was at my Qi Gong retreat in November last year! I was 57!!!

WHAT’S YOUR FAIRY STORY?

If your life is not everything you wanted and you are not feeling joyful, satisfied and fulfilled, what is the ‘fairy story’ you are telling yourself that is driving all your unhappiness?

It’s most likely one of the above 3 fears!

WHY IS IT WORTH DELVING?

Because once you find that core fear embedded in your fairy story, you can question it! You can see if your behaviour and need for acknowledgement and unhappy relationships are linked to this fear (They are!).

One you stop blaming others or circumstances and being a victim, and realise the truth of what is really driving your behaviours – unconscious fears – then you have choice back again!  You can choose to behave like an adult! You can CHOOSE to stop behaving like a 3 year old needing attention and needing to prove yourself worthy of loving or good enough and accept the wonderful person you ALREADY are.

You are an ‘astonishing being of light’ – in a poem by Hafiz, translated by Daniel Ladinsky in “I heard God Laughing” , the sun says

“I wish I could show you,

when you are lonely or in darkness.

the Astonishing Light

of your own Being!”

No matter what fairy story you tell yourself about yourself and your life, it’s ONLY A PERCEPTION! And a judgement! You TRULY are an astonishing being of light! When you were madly in love and they loved you – that’s what it’s like to live at your highest vibration – the vibration of love – unconditional love for yourself and others.

Believe that – isn’t that a better fairy story to tell yourself? If everything is based on a fairy story, then at least pick a GOOD fairy story that has a joyful ending!

And as long as unconditional love – or just real love – is involved, there is always a joyful ending…and more importantly, the journey TO the ending is WAYYY more joyful!

YOUR MISSION TODAY, IF YOU CHOOSE TO ACCEPT IT!

Take an inner exploration and wake up to what your current fairy story is.

Then question it – it’s not true!

Change your fairy story to one that is the story of a lovable person who has had many learnings and done the best they can along the way. Love yourself.

Oh yes…remember to forgive yourself – you did the best you could!

Loving yourself is the most important thing you can do in life. EVERYONE else benefits!  At work, in your life and at home.

Zooties,

Amanda

PS. If you would like to watch Amanda talk about this click here.

 

 

 

 

 

 

]]> http://www.amandagore.com/the-most-important-thing-in-your-life/feed/ 0 Joy Spot – Part 10 – Who taught you how to love? http://www.amandagore.com/joy-spot-part-10-who-taught-you-how-to-love/ http://www.amandagore.com/joy-spot-part-10-who-taught-you-how-to-love/#comments Tue, 13 Mar 2012 04:59:00 +0000 The Joy Blog http://www.thejoyproject.com/_blog/The_Joy_Blog/post/Who_taught_you_how_to_love/ Once upon a time, many years ago, I went out with a man called Hugh. (The names have been changed!) During that time I learned a big lesson about how we give others love!


Showing someone else we love them is not something most of us do consciously-we just do it!

Only when things are not going right or we have split up with someone do we ever think about HOW THE OTHER PERSON WANTED TO BE LOVED!

Let me explain!

As a child, my Read more]]> Once upon a time, many years ago, I went out with a man called Hugh. (The names have been changed!) During that time I learned a big lesson about how we give others love!


Showing someone else we love them is not something most of us do consciously-we just do it!

Only when things are not going right or we have split up with someone do we ever think about HOW THE OTHER PERSON WANTED TO BE LOVED!

Let me explain!

As a child, my Mum used to shower us with gifts on our birthdays and we were mini celebrities for days before! For Hugh, his whole family gave him 2 tea towels for his 30th birthday! Even though they loved him! This was the way they shoed they loved him.

It was very different from my way of being loved!

My Mum used to do silly things like write little notes or give me cards that said “I wuv you” or stick notes in my lunch box. So of course, I thought everyone did that! And that everyone would appreciate that!

Well….one day with Hugh, just before he was about to go to a meeting, I had a wonderful idea. I emptied a whole packet of tiny, heart shaped confetti into his briefcase.

Of course, I was imagining how delighted he would be as he opened his briefcase in front of all these people and hundreds of little hearts would fall out. I was seeing the jealousy of all his colleagues who were thinking how lucky he was!!!

Apparently it didn’t happen quite like this!

So once he started speaking to me again, it dawned on me that we learn to give love from our parents – yet no one consciously talks about giving love – or how we do it or how we might differ!

Hence this newsletter – I am starting a world wide movement on finding out what you need to do to make your loved ones feel loved!

Even your children. You may think that making them a special lunch does it when really what works for them is when you sit down at the end of the day and listening to them share their day.

So the most important question I think to ask each other in a relationship is this…

‘what do I do that makes you feel that I love you?’

And then listen. REALLY listen.

Listen for the feelings behind the words. Do not judge. Accept what they say. Ask questions to make sure you understood exactly what they said.

If they say “I feel loved when you hug me.’

Do not respond with ‘no, sorry, you knew I was not a hugger when we got together; never have been; never will be.”

If you do that, don’t ask the question in the first place!

If you ask the question, you have to be truly ready to hear the truth and it may surprise or shock you – but it is THEIR feelings we are exploring – not YOURS!

Today, why not make your partner, child or friend a card and write on it “What do I do, that makes you feel, that I LOVE YOU?’


And inside it create a blank list for them….and make a series of vouchers to go with it that they can fill in with requests!

Make 12 vouchers, one for each month of the year.

At the end of the year, your partner or child will feel SO loved that you will want to do this each year!

Zooties from us all at the Joy Project!

PS The best way to love someone else unconditionally is to love yourself unconditionally! But more on that later! ]]> http://www.amandagore.com/joy-spot-part-10-who-taught-you-how-to-love/feed/ 0 what would i do without fear? http://www.amandagore.com/what-would-i-do-without-fear/ http://www.amandagore.com/what-would-i-do-without-fear/#comments Mon, 27 Feb 2012 10:27:00 +0000 The Joy Blog http://www.thejoyproject.com/_blog/The_Joy_Blog/post/what_would_i_do_without_fear/ A friend of mine Jana Stanfield has a beautiful voice. One of my favorite songs is "what would I do......

This made me think about a very useful exercise!


Fears hold us back in so many ways. Most of us are living lives of habits and patterns ruled unconsciously by fear.

It's time to WAKE UP to our fears and begin to live our lives from a conscious basis of love - not an unconscious basis of fear!

SO...here goes....here is the Read more]]> A friend of mine Jana Stanfield has a beautiful voice. One of my favorite songs is "what would I do......

This made me think about a very useful exercise!


Fears hold us back in so many ways. Most of us are living lives of habits and patterns ruled unconsciously by fear.

It's time to WAKE UP to our fears and begin to live our lives from a conscious basis of love - not an unconscious basis of fear!

SO...here goes....here is the exercise....find a piece of paper and write at the top.....'what would I do if I was not afraid?'

Write down all the areas in your life.

Answer these questions for each area:

What would you do at home if you were not afraid?

How would you behave?

In what ways would your behavior be different from now?

How would your world look in the new fear free scenario?

How would others behave around you?

How would you feel?

What would you hear and see? How would you move?

Answer the same questions for work, family, around friends, in the community, at school - and any other place I have left out!

Then do this with your children - it would be one of the greatest gifts you can give them. Make it a regular exercise - each month go through the same routine BUT.... you MUST MAKE THE ENVIRONMENT SAFE for the children to be honest.

You are there to help them see how fear holds them back and is unnecessary in most cases.

If you become angry with them for speaking their truth - rather than trying to understand them and asking what makes them feel fear - or they are ridiculed or mocked, the fears will be heightened and more destructive - and validated in their minds.

One of the most destructive and prevalent fears that underpins many of our destructive or other than positive behaviour patterns is the fear that we are not worth loving.

Which brings me to part 2 of the exercise! NOW do the same thing answering this question"
If I was not afraid, I would love myself enough to ......"

If there is someone in your life whom you really trust and feel safe with, go through the exercise together.

It may change your life! Shine the light on your fears and watch them evaporate!

Someone recently sent me a youtube clip of Anita Moorjani and I am including it here for you to see how her experience outlines how fear dominated her life - and how dying and coming back to life showed her that we ARE love and are meant to see ourselves as magnificent beings of love! The fear skews our true vision - or our vision of the truth.

Live your life fearlessly - do the things you would do if you were not afraid.

And be sensible - there are some things where timing is important or safety must be considered! To live in fear of being diagnosed with cancer or any other illness causes you to focus on that and bring it towards you as Anita discovered. To fear what others think allows them to rule your life. To fear being your true self jams up all flow in your life.

Go ahead - do the exercise - if you are afraid of the answers - it's even more important you do it! ]]> http://www.amandagore.com/what-would-i-do-without-fear/feed/ 0 How to Get Your Mojo Back – Cyndi O’Meara http://www.amandagore.com/how-to-get-your-mojo-back-cyndi-omeara/ http://www.amandagore.com/how-to-get-your-mojo-back-cyndi-omeara/#comments Mon, 27 Feb 2012 07:50:00 +0000 The Joy Blog http://www.amandagore.com/?guid=42f13a6647c88f328b16dc3fc417e672 Some peoples Mojo is so far gone that they’ve forgotten what it is all about, while others have just lost their spark. There are extremes of this condition of ‘my mojo has gone’, but I believe no matter how far away it is the steps are always the same to get it back.


There is an incredible vibrant young man in the US, his name is Daniel Vitalis, he doesn’t have a formal education but he has wisdom beyond his years. He became a vegetarian at 15 and then soon moved on to being a vegan, taking Read more]]> Some peoples Mojo is so far gone that they’ve forgotten what it is all about, while others have just lost their spark. There are extremes of this condition of ‘my mojo has gone’, but I believe no matter how far away it is the steps are always the same to get it back.


There is an incredible vibrant young man in the US, his name is Daniel Vitalis, he doesn’t have a formal education but he has wisdom beyond his years. He became a vegetarian at 15 and then soon moved on to being a vegan, taking out more and more foods from his diet. His health was deteriorating and one day it dawned on him that perhaps he shouldn’t be taking foods out of his diet but putting them back in. He now learns his lessons from nature not from a book and everything he does is based on the natural cause and effect of the human body. In other words he eats wild meats, wild greens and root vegetables, local foods, seasonal nuts and seeds, his exercise is based on natural movement and he spends as much time as he can in the outdoors.

I had the privilege of interviewing Daniel last year and I’ve posted the hour interview on my Healthy Living Club sight available through www.changinghabits.com.au. You see Daniel got it, he realised if he continued to do what he was doing then he would continue to get the same results. So if you have lost your mojo or your spark and you haven’t changed then expect your mojo to be lost for a long time.

Change is the most important thing you can do. Change when you go to bed and wake up in the morning, change your morning routine, eat different foods, drive a different way to walk, better still ride a bike or walk. Stop watching TV and start reading books, learn how to download podcasts and put them on your MP3 and listen to them in the car instead of the radio (and the doom and gloom of the world). Treat people differently, treat yourself with respect, don’t take things personally, don’t make assumptions, be impeccable with your words not only to yourself but the words you say to your self in those quiet moments. Ask the famous question of Byron Katie - it that really true????

I’ve never thought I’d lost my mojo but last year I had the privilege to speak on the same stage as the incredible Dr Sherill Sellman. She made me question many things, she is a woman in her 60’s that oozes mojo and anything else you can ooze. She told me about a program that she did many years ago that changed everything for her. It was an eating regime that was discovered in the 1950’s. I was very skeptical of it but decided to do it. I can’t tell you how incredible it was and how it changed everything for me.

I’m turning 52 this year, I’ve always been someone who really looks after myself I do key things in order to enhance health not detract from it. For many years I would do a yearly juice fast but I noticed a couple of years ago that it wasn’t really helping me in my health so I stopped, I noticed that over the years my clothes were becoming uncomfortable, just a little tight and my wardrobe for comfort and looks was diminishing in size. I’d put something on in the morning and it looked blah so I’d take it off and wear what I knew worked.

I decided even though I was skeptical about the program Sherrill spoke of I’d do it and 21 days later I was a new woman, not only physically, but I had a euphoria in my mind that just kept growing, everything looked shiny and bright and great and my energy boosted tremendously. I looked forward to challenges and I could hardly wait to get up in the morning to go for a walk and get ready for my day.

The program is not unlike what Daniel Vitalis did, just getting back to the basics, stripping back away from the technology and science of eating and living and going back to basics.

I was so excited by this program that I decided to tell everyone about it, so it is now available from the changing habits website. It’s called the 4 Phase Fat Elimination HCG Protocol. It’s changing lives, firstly physically and then mentally and if you do it properly it will get your mojo well and truly back.

Happy Changing Habits



]]> http://www.amandagore.com/how-to-get-your-mojo-back-cyndi-omeara/feed/ 0 aromatherapy for lovers – Fleur Whelligan and Kim Morrison http://www.amandagore.com/aromatherapy-for-lovers-fleur-whelligan-and-kim-morrison/ http://www.amandagore.com/aromatherapy-for-lovers-fleur-whelligan-and-kim-morrison/#comments Mon, 27 Feb 2012 07:47:00 +0000 The Joy Blog http://www.thejoyproject.com/_blog/The_Joy_Blog/post/aromatherapy_for_lovers_-_Fleur_Whelligan_and_Kim_Morrison/ Who needs a day in the year to tell your soul mate you love them? Is it a great reminder? And a special chance to do something nice? Or is Valentines Day just some big marketing ploy to get you to spend truck loads on flowers, chocolates and champagne!! Whatever your thoughts and regardless of February the 14th as a date - it is a reminder about a divine truth and that is LOVE!


So here is your chance to celebrate the romantic love between two people. Why not go one step further than the aphrodisiac and Read more]]> Who needs a day in the year to tell your soul mate you love them? Is it a great reminder? And a special chance to do something nice? Or is Valentines Day just some big marketing ploy to get you to spend truck loads on flowers, chocolates and champagne!! Whatever your thoughts and regardless of February the 14th as a date - it is a reminder about a divine truth and that is LOVE!


So here is your chance to celebrate the romantic love between two people. Why not go one step further than the aphrodisiac and mood enhancing qualities of dark chocolate and delve into the timeless art of Aromatherapy.

Aphrodite, the goddess of LOVE, is said to have used exquisite Rose petals as she knew they were uplifting and had a wonderful aroma that helped connect to her own femininity.  Rose is also ruled by the planet Venus, which represents all things love and beautiful. The essential oil of Rose can help open the heart and support deep emotional wounds or fears to heal.

In ancient Indian traditions, one in particular, Ayeurvedic Medicine there are seven energy centres or chakras in the body. The heart chakra is related to love and is the integrator of opposites within the psyche. For example - mind and body, light and dark, male and female, ego and unity. It is well known that those with a healthy heart chakra love more freely and have a deeper sense of self and centredness.


High quality therapeutic grade essential oils can be used to help bring awareness to the heart. And what better time to make the time to do it than in the month of love. The simple act of lighting your vaporiser, or even a candle, creating a beautiful blend especially for your lover, putting on special music, creating an exquisite meal or running an aromatic bath are all euphoric and powerful aphrodisiacs for the soul.

The most potent aphrodisiac oils are Rose, Jasmine, Patchouli, Ylang Ylang and Sandalwood.

Rose has a very strong, dense and rich aroma. It blends beautifully with most oils in particular Patchouli and Sandalwood. Rose is known as the Queen Of Essential Oils and is especially amazing for women. It can help balance hormones, has a tonifying effect on the reproductive organs and can certainly enhance sexuality. Although it carries a high price tag only one drop is needed to enjoy the healing and very nurturing effects of this oil. As a perfume it is exhilarating.

If Rose is the Queen then Jasmine is the King of essential oils. A rather exotic and fruity aroma it helps to relieve tension and relax the mind. With beautiful euphoric qualities it is said to help enhance sexual confidence. Only a very small amount is needed of this very intense but intoxicating aroma. It is arousing and transforming and helps one to feel connected and in the moment.

Patchouli has always been associated with love. This sensual, harmonising oil has a rich, earthy scent that is captivating without a doubt. It blends beautifully with Orange and Ylang Ylang and is known to help us feel in the present and connected to source.

Ylang Ylang is a beautiful soul connecting and love making oil. A strong, dense floral and fruity aroma only a small amount is needed for effect. Rather tranquilising and calming it helps bring confidence with ease. The perfect oil to have in a massage blend or a few drops in the bath.

The deep, woody and rich aroma of Sandalwood is highly concentrated and grounding. It helps induce a sense of calm, strength and serenity. It is considered a sexual restorative for both men and women. It is a delight to wear on its own or in a combination of other oils like Lavender or Geranium.

We are excited to say that our amazing Romance and Intimacy blend is one of the most amazing aphrodisiac and self-nurturing oils we have. With oils of Rose, Ylang Ylang, Orange, Rosewood, Patchouli and Sandalwood here are some special ways you can use it for your loved one.

Make up a loving Massage Blend using 30ml Carrier Oil and 15 drops Romance & Intimacy and combine together.  Create a beautiful environment, light candles and put on some music that means something to you both. Invite your partner in. There is no right or wrong in how you massage your partner. As long as you touch with love and care there is a lot of communication without words. It is the most precious way to tell someone you care. The Love Me Tender gift pack is ideal!

Run an Aromatic Bath... Fill a bath with warm to hot water. Set the room - light candles, put on some music, roll up a towel for each of you. Add 6 drops of Romance & Intimacy into the bath and agitate to disperse the oils. Pour a glass of bubbles or a cup of herbal tea and immerse yourselves at opposite ends to enjoy an aromatic indulgence.

Create a beautiful loving, sensual aromatic environment. Fill the top of your ceramic or glass Vaporiser with water, add 6-8 drops of Romance & Intimacy and light the candle. Place this on the table over a beautiful meal together - it is a magical way to create a romantic mood. You can also place a vaporiser in the bedroom and make it a love making haven. We have a very popular Ultimate Romance Gift Pack that might just be perfect here!!

Make up a loving Massage Blend using 30ml Carrier Oil and 15 drops Romance & Intimacy and combine together.  Create a beautiful environment, light candles and put on some music that means something to you both. Invite your partner in. There is no right or wrong in how you massage your partner. As long as you touch with love and care there is a lot of communication without words. It is the most precious way to tell someone you care. The Love Me Tender gift pack is ideal!

Run an Aromatic Bath... Fill a bath with warm to hot water. Set the room - light candles, put on some music, roll up a towel for each of you. Add 6 drops of Romance & Intimacy into the bath and agitate to disperse the oils. Pour a glass of bubbles or a cup of herbal tea and immerse yourselves at opposite ends to enjoy an aromatic indulgence.

Create a beautiful loving, sensual aromatic environment. Fill the top of your ceramic or glass Vaporiser with water, add 6-8 drops of Romance & Intimacy and light the candle. Place this on the table over a beautiful meal together - it is a magical way to create a romantic mood. You can also place a vaporiser in the bedroom and make it a love making haven. We have a very popular Ultimate Romance Gift Pack that might just be perfect here!!

The fact our sense of smell is so closely linked to our emotions shows reason why Aromatherapy is the perfect mood enhancer. Contrary to popular belief we are attracted to our lovers through their smell more than their looks. What better way to seduce, nurture and love your partner by incorporating these beautiful gifts from nature into these romantic rituals.



Kim Morrison and Fleur Whelligan

]]> http://www.amandagore.com/aromatherapy-for-lovers-fleur-whelligan-and-kim-morrison/feed/ 0 how to kick-start your sex drive with libido boosting foods -by Ross McClain http://www.amandagore.com/how-to-kick-start-your-sex-drive-with-libido-boosting-foods-by-ross-mcclain/ http://www.amandagore.com/how-to-kick-start-your-sex-drive-with-libido-boosting-foods-by-ross-mcclain/#comments Sun, 26 Feb 2012 10:25:00 +0000 The Joy Blog http://www.thejoyproject.com/_blog/The_Joy_Blog/post/how_to_kick-start_your_sex_drive_with_libido_boosting_foods_-by_Ross_McClain/ If you're experiencing a decrease in libido, you are not alone. For most people, sex drive is like a roller coaster - one minute it's up, the next, it's down.


A drop or decrease in sex drive is usually caused by changes in lifestyle or is a side effect of taking certain medication. Experts say that a lack of interest in making love - even with partners we adore in many other ways - is not as unusual as we might think.

So how do you coax your sex drive out of hiding? Below Read more]]> If you're experiencing a decrease in libido, you are not alone. For most people, sex drive is like a roller coaster - one minute it's up, the next, it's down.


A drop or decrease in sex drive is usually caused by changes in lifestyle or is a side effect of taking certain medication. Experts say that a lack of interest in making love - even with partners we adore in many other ways - is not as unusual as we might think.

So how do you coax your sex drive out of hiding? Below I have highlighted a few foods that are renowned for helping boost the libido.

Sex-drive boosting libido super-foods:

 • Celery: considered an excellent food to ramp up sexual stimulation. The reason being that it boosts a powerful substance known as androsterone – an odourless hormone released through male perspiration. ‘Yuk’ I hear you. Well, this is one of those kind of sweats that has that strange effect on women…the same effect that I understand a dozen red roses has.

• Maca: this is a less common food, but is no less potent. Having only recently been introduced to the Western world you will be forgiven for not finding it in your local supermarket. I had not heard of this until very recently when it was hailed as a Natural Viagra . Like anyone else, this claim made me curious. According to some it is believed to improve sexual performance, the frequency with which people desire sex and can be effective in increasing sperm count! Not only that, but guys should expect an increase in testosterone, a helping hand in any fight against erective dysfunctions and impotency and it also makes you feel younger. Quality! Fear not ladies – for women, maca is renowned for increasing sex-drive and fertility! What a stormer!

• Pumpkin Seeds: Pumpkin seeds contain zinc, which is important in testosterone production for men and also helps to sustain sexual desire in women. Pumpkin seeds are also rich in the essential fatty acid omega 3, which acts as a precursor of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that play a key role in sexual health. Word on the street is that a diet rich in pumpkin seeds will enhance potency, drive and fertility.

• Saurkraut: an unlikely inclusion, but a vital key in unlocking your libido according to the Scottish diet guru Gillian McKeith has deemed sauerkraut sexy, citing a U.S. study that reported 90 percent of men were more “active” after eating it. Not as saur or krauty as you though eh?!

• Bananas: help to boost male libido largely due to the presence of the enzyme ‘bromelain’ . Bananas are also a good source of B vitamins like riboflavin and potassium, which increase the body's total energy levels. However, they are also very rich in potassium and B vitamins, which are vital for sex-hormone production!

• Almonds: Almonds are another major source of essential fatty acids. Almonds provide the basis for the healthy production of male hormones that are important in regulating sex-drive (among other things obviously!). The smell of almonds is found to arouse passion in female. Although I am not 100% convinced by the latter!

• Avocado: The Aztecs called the avocado tree ahuacatl or “testicle tree.” Interesting fact. Avocado helps to increase both male and female libido. As it contains very high levels of folic acid, it assists in metabolising proteins, thus providing you more energy – which is obviously good all round. Avocado also features vitamin B6 (a nutrient which improves male hormone production) and potassium (which helps to regulate a woman's thyroid gland).

• Asparagus: it is not only the ever-so-slightly suggestive shape of asparagus that acts as a libido booster – asparagus also happens to be very high in vitamin E, which has long been thought of as ‘the sex vitamin’. The Vegetarian Society suggests “eating asparagus for three days for the most powerful affect”.

• Chilies: may heat up your sex life too, due to capsaicin, the substance that gives kick to peppers, curries and other spicy foods. Triggering the release of endorphins, capsaicin is therefore a feel good chemical for your brain! It also stimulates nerve endings and raises your heart rate. IMPORTANT: if you chop the chilies yourself - make sure you wash your hands very very thoroughly - if you don't you will know why.

• Basil: basil increases circulation, stimulates the sex drive and boosts fertility! It is also said to produce a general sense of well being for body and mind. But most curiously of all, its scent is supposed to drive us wild! In fact, basil oil was once employed by Mediterranean prostitutes as a perfume to attract customers! Personally, the scent of basil makes me want to drive to the nearest Italian restaurant, but that’s just me.

• Cardamom: Cardamom is an nicely aromatic spice. In many cultures it is viewed as an intensely powerful aphrodisiac and also beneficial in treating impotence (mix with maca for some ‘interesting results’). It is high in cineole, which can increase blood flow in certain important areas! Try it in a chai tea to incorporate all the Ayurvedic potent spices.

• Figs: rather crudely, some sources suggest that figs work as an aphrodisiac because of their appearance being similar to certain sex organs, but not I. Figs are very high in amino acids, which are critical to increasing your libido and boosting sexual stamina.

• Garlic: bad on the breath but good on the sex drive. Maybe this is one for long-term couples who don’t have as much worry over little matters such as garlic-breath (as long as you both munch it, you’ll be OK). Garlic contains high levels of allicin, a compound – that can improve blood flow to the sexual organs. But note – don’t just munch on big cloves of raw garlic! Allicin is only produced once garlic has been chopped as it is produced through an enzyme reaction. As a bonus, allicin is also has great anti-fungal properties.

So go forth! Read, eat and enjoy!!!

Source: Many thanks to our friends at Food Matters for allowing us to share this blog.

]]> http://www.amandagore.com/how-to-kick-start-your-sex-drive-with-libido-boosting-foods-by-ross-mcclain/feed/ 0 Top 10 ways to get your Mojo back! – Dr Greg Emerson http://www.amandagore.com/top-10-ways-to-get-your-mojo-back-dr-greg-emerson/ http://www.amandagore.com/top-10-ways-to-get-your-mojo-back-dr-greg-emerson/#comments Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:48:00 +0000 The Joy Blog http://www.thejoyproject.com/_blog/The_Joy_Blog/post/top_10_tips_to_get_your_mojo_back_-_Dr_Greg_Emerson/ I remembered three things as I sat down to write this article, on my small permaculture farm deep in the rolling green hills of the Gold Coast Hinterland... 


I remembered that I have seen a lot of life and death. I remembered that I never write about anything I am not passionate about or have no experience of, and I remembered that life rarely turns out the way you expect it to! But that is where the magic and excitement of life is found. And in the end, it’s in the magic and excitement that “mojo” is Read more]]> I remembered three things as I sat down to write this article, on my small permaculture farm deep in the rolling green hills of the Gold Coast Hinterland... 


I remembered that I have seen a lot of life and death. I remembered that I never write about anything I am not passionate about or have no experience of, and I remembered that life rarely turns out the way you expect it to! But that is where the magic and excitement of life is found. And in the end, it’s in the magic and excitement that “mojo” is found.

I have delivered a lot of babies in my career. In 1986 I found myself working in the Goroka Hospital Obstetric Department in the Highlands of Papua New Guinea. Seeing the magic of new life arrive into the world is a unique experience.

I then spent the next 20 years of my life working in major Emergency Departments around the world seeing far too much of life departing this world. Eventually I left that career behind for several reasons. I am so grateful for it leaving me with an un-extinguishable excitement and gratitude for life. That’s the source of my mojo and the reason it will never decline.

If you had asked me back in those days if I’d ever be dividing my time between a small permaculture farm and a clinic devoted to solving the mysteries of chronic illness, I would have laughed.

Now, however, I have learnt to expect the unexpected and to embrace the challenges that life brings to me. I still see new life arrive… it’s just different.

These days I spend a few evenings per week trawling through the mud of a pigpen, checking the appearance of my two sows for signs of pregnancy. I’m pleased to announce that this week there is evidence, so I’m now eagerly awaiting the arrival of 8-10 new Saddleback piglets.

There is no doubt that 2012 will be a year of great challenge, but I expect that it will also be the year of a new beginning of a much more peaceful and sustainable world.

So in order to enjoy the new world, let me talk about the 10 top ways for men and women to maximise their ‘mojo’.

Mojo is not just about sex and libido, although those are pleasant components of it, mojo is about an excitement for life. An excitement that has the potential to be expanded exponentially when one is in an extraordinary intimate relationship.

TOP 10 TIPS FOR WOMEN (in no particular order)

1. Great health: with health comes energy. There are not many women who are chronically tired and plagued with chronic infections who feel like their life is full of excitement and sexual intimacy. The best thoughts, the best water, the best organic food and daily exercise form the basis of good health.

2. Great self-esteem: to have a passion for life and a passion for intimacy, women have to feel really good about themselves. Everyone is unique; everyone has something to give the world and everyone has been given the gift of life for a reason. If you don’t feel that way, find a personal development course that will open your eyes to those universal truths.

3. Great communication: love is communicated in many different ways. Graham Chapman wrote a great book called the 5 Love Languages. The 5 languages are words of affirmation, physical touch, quality time, acts of service and gifts. If your primary language is quality time and your partner’s primary language is acts of service, then even though you love each other, no one will realise. Find each others love language.

4. Balanced hormones: environmental toxins have so affected the balance of women’s hormones that conditions such as low thyroid, adrenal fatigue and estrogen dominance are now epidemic. Find a health professional who can guide you through this maze.

5. Tonic herbs: tonic herbs are those herbs that can be taken on a daily basis to increase health and energy. They are usually adaptogenic in nature so they restore balance. Maca, deer antler, longan fruit and shizandra berry have a long history of use as sexual tonics for women.

6. Great selection: if you want a great partner to share an extraordinary life with, then make sure you choose the right one.

7. Great mood: hormone, mineral and neurotransmitter imbalances can cause anxiety and depression. Often they can be easily fixed.

8. Magnesium: magnesium is frequently deficient in most women. In my opinion, transdermal magnesium therapy can revolutionise how a woman feels about herself and the world.

9. Love and passion: "Love without passion is dreary; passion without love is horrific."
- Lord Byron

10. Living the life that you are meant to live: If you don’t know what that is yet, it doesn’t matter. Believe that you are on the right track. It’s the belief that counts!

TOP 10 TIPS FOR MEN

1. Great health: health brings energy, confidence, and a freedom from pain (and all your organs work optimally).

2. Confidence: Austin Powers got his mojo from his very hairy chest. It doesn’t matter where you get your confidence from but confidence brings charisma and charisma brings mojo.

3. Great communication: see above.

4. Testosterone: there are many reasons a man’s testosterone levels decline over time. My patients with high levels of testosterone are out climbing mountains when they are 70, my patients with low testosterone are sitting in a chair with a beer in their hand at the age of 50 watching people climb mountains. Optimising weight, zinc and tonic herbs can be used to optimise levels.

5. Tonic herbs:  deer antler, pine pollen, tongkat ali and he shou wu are my favourites.

6. Zinc: “the man’s mineral.” Studies have shown that the lower the level of zinc, the lower the level of a mans testosterone and the higher his risk of prostate disease.

7. Stress reduction: stress causes cortisol to be produced in the body rather than testosterone. This is know as ‘cortisol steal.’

8. Avoiding prescription drugs that deplete energy and libido: anti-depressants, beta-blockers and statin drugs are the most common.

9. Love and passion: men may deny it but it’s the same for us!

10. Living the life you are meant to live: “I do not think the measure of a civilisation is how tall its buildings are, but rather how well its people relate to their environment and fellow man.” - Sun Bear of the Chippewa Tribe.


Dr Greg Emerson
]]> http://www.amandagore.com/top-10-ways-to-get-your-mojo-back-dr-greg-emerson/feed/ 0 Single but desperate! http://www.amandagore.com/single-but-desperate/ http://www.amandagore.com/single-but-desperate/#comments Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:41:00 +0000 The Joy Blog http://www.thejoyproject.com/_blog/The_Joy_Blog/post/Single_but_desperate!/ We all know someone who is , has been or will always be single, but desperate!  Of course, we have never been like that ourselves, but we can recognise it in anyone else!


What is it that tells the world that someone is desperate to be un - single? Non verbal communication- that's what!

We all think we know what non verbal communication is because we have read about body language.  But body language is a relatively small part of non verbal communication.  Much more comes through our voice tones, vocal variety, micro muscle 
Read more]]> We all know someone who is , has been or will always be single, but desperate!  Of course, we have never been like that ourselves, but we can recognise it in anyone else!


What is it that tells the world that someone is desperate to be un - single? Non verbal communication- that's what!

We all think we know what non verbal communication is because we have read about body language.  But body language is a relatively small part of non verbal communication.  Much more comes through our voice tones, vocal variety, micro muscle  and colour changes in our face and our breathing.

Think of the last time you walked into a room and no one said a word but you knew something was wrong.  So you ask "what's wrong" and the answer 'nothing' comes back.  But the way  the word nothing was said let you know there was a major problem. (And probably your fault!)  

In fact, we can say 'nothing' about fifteen different ways and each time we say it, it has a different meaning.  Be warned!  Our non verbal communication is 80-93% of everything we communicate; our words are the rest.  
 
I like to describe it as if we all walk around with invisible fish bowls on our heads and in this fish bowl are 'sparkly bits'.  My sparkly bits and your sparkly bits talk to each other all the time. We cannot hide them. If what comes out of my sparkly bits doesn't match what comes out of my mouth, then other people will ALWAYS pick up the sparkly bit message.   

What ever we are thinking, saying to ourselves or imagining about another person as we are talking or listening to them, will shine through loud and clear to them via the sparkly bits. 

For example,  have you ever met someone at a party and spoken to them for a while only to walk away thinking 'I don't know, they seemed really nice but something didn't click/ feel right etc'?  Trust those feelings because what you picked up was the sparkly bit message from that person - the truth -  and it didn't match what came out of their mouth.   

We don't know the exact message being sent but our sparkly bits pick up their sparkly bits (call it intuition if you prefer) and we sense something incongruent  (big word meaning we sense something doesn't fit, seem right).

No matter how clever we are, how good an actor we might be, we cannot hide our sparkly bit message.  That's why people know who is single but desperate! Out of these people's mouths are coming the words "I love being single;  having independence;  I can do my on thing etc etc";  meanwhile their sparkly bits are screaming out to everyone "PLEASE HELP ME, TAKE ME, I HATE BEING SINGLE!"  The day we change our sparkly bit message is the day we start attracting others!

Children are masters at picking up sparkly bit messages.  I remember a story by Stephen Covey in his book "The Seven Habits of Highly Successful People" in which he describes their children.  

Apparently the first five (he had six!) were wonderfully successful (according to his definition of healthy, happy and making money).  The last child had trouble keeping up at school; at sport; at making friends. But they loved him and supported him by offering encouragement and protection from taunts.  Until he was writing his book.  At which point he and his wife realised that they both deep down believed that something was wrong with this child. And that was the message he continually received from them.

The day they changed what they thought, and saw him as a 'normal and perfect just as he was' child is the day he started improving. He finished up being school and sport captain and very popular. Be wary of what you think, believe about or say to yourself about anyone - especially your children.

Animals pick up sparkly bits as well as children. They can pick your mood -often before you do! And cats haters know this better than anyone!

If you have a partner,  think about what your sparkly bits said to your partner in the early days of your relationship.  I adore you; I think you are wonderful; you are perfect;  you can do no wrong. There is no doubt that this brings out the  best in any person!  And they will move heaven and earth for you because no one else has ever believed in them so much!  Or sent them these messages.    

What do you say to yourself about your partner now?  Yet have they changed as a person? Are they really so different?  Or are you spending your time and energy focusing on their other than good points?  Try changing what you say to yourself or think/ believe about your partner and see what dramatic changes you notice in their behaviour as a result.   

We are not taught about the power of non verbal communication in schools, although we unconsciously know it.  Imagine the impact in interview situations - if you believe you are perfect for this job, that you are good enough it will shine through your sparkly bits!  And the interviewers will be impressed even if they can't quite 'put their finger on' why. If you go in hoping they don't find out how hopeless you are, don't bother going in! Because they'll pick up that message too!

And last, but not least. Sparkly bits are the way people become sleaze bags!  A man (of course, it could be a woman as well) can be talking to a woman and out of his mouth are coming that words 'my, what an intelligent, attractive, charming woman you are'.  Meanwhile his sparkly bits are sending out the message of 'WOW, great body'!  Yes guys, it's true, we know!  Of course, if a woman did the same thing she'd be very popular!!  Ha, ha just kidding! 

Anyway, think about what your sparkly bits are saying  - they're more important than you could possibly imagine!
]]> http://www.amandagore.com/single-but-desperate/feed/ 0 Where do men learn to be romantic? http://www.amandagore.com/where-do-men-learn-to-be-romantic/ http://www.amandagore.com/where-do-men-learn-to-be-romantic/#comments Mon, 13 Feb 2012 07:06:00 +0000 The Joy Blog http://www.thejoyproject.com/_blog/The_Joy_Blog/post/WHERE_DO_MEN_LEARN_TO_BE_ROMANTIC/ Unless a man had a romantic Father or mentor in his early years , where does he learn to behave in romantic ways?  He has had no model to observe and copy. So he grows up knowing that romance sounds great and appears to have dramatic impact on women but he doesn't know how to be romantic.


He can't go and have romance lessons! (Although I'm thinking of starting some - any interested men let me know!)   And men don't stand around in clumps taklking about the latest romance ideas they have come across!

Women Read more]]> Unless a man had a romantic Father or mentor in his early years , where does he learn to behave in romantic ways?  He has had no model to observe and copy. So he grows up knowing that romance sounds great and appears to have dramatic impact on women but he doesn't know how to be romantic.


He can't go and have romance lessons! (Although I'm thinking of starting some - any interested men let me know!)   And men don't stand around in clumps taklking about the latest romance ideas they have come across!

Women read novels full of small print and words that are romantic notions and ideas.  Men read Playboy!  (Of course, I'm generalising) And Playboy or similar magazines, in my experience do not focus a whole lot on how to be more romantic - from a woman's perspective!

It's not just men who might not know how to be romantic - there are women who haven't had much experience of romance either.  (But not as many as men!).

So what can we do about it?

Well, for starters lets define romance.  What is it?  Is it an 'it'?   I think romance is a decision.  A way of thinking.  A way of behaving that involves surprise, spontaneity, excitement, renewal of passion, thoughtfulness and commitment.

Lets face it folks, roamnantic behaviours take effort.  Even though we are frantically busy, we need to make romantic incidents a priority - it helps keep aour relationships alive and exciting.   Romance is what made our early courting days more exciting.  (OK so there was lust and passion then....who says it won't come back?!)

I know people are going to say 'how can you be romantic on demand?' and 'how can a planned event be spontaneous ?'.  Well, firstly, make a decision that you are going ot make the effort to be more romantic.  Then talk about your decision with yoru partner.   Ask each other 'what would you think would be romantic?'  - because what you think is romantic may not be so for your partner!

Then once you understand the sorts of things yourpartner likes, plan for them - but keep it as a surprise for your beloved!  Like a weekend away - tell them not to plan anything for that weekend but you are not saying why. Or don't even tell your partner - when you know they have a weekend free, arrange babysitters, pack her (or his) bags, book the venue and collect her (in a chauffer driven limo if you want to pull out all stops!) and take her away!!  Do everything you know she would have worried about/  used as an excuse if you had mentioned it beforehand!

Or just plan a picnic with champagne and his/ her favourite foods and candles and tablecloths - or even a bridgetable and chairs under a beautiful tree - romance doesn't have to cost any money.

What about wearing her/his favourite clothes one evening and cooking a spoecial meal together?  Or buying some special massage oil and lighting candles in the bedroom or in front of the fire and giving each other a sensous massage after a bottle of wine?

Or arrange for a masseur to come to your house and after a lovely dinner,  you both have a wonderful relaxing massage - make it a Friday night so you can stay up late!

How about reading poetry to each other?  Oh well - I have more ideas!  Men are very visual ladies so anything you do with minimal clothing on - or romantic lingerie/ clothes is great - if he likes it!

Sometimes it's more romantic if we wear lots of clothes that hint at sensuality.

Send flowers with a secret rendevous invitation;  when he/ she arrives home, be waiting for them in a bubble bath - with champagne;  talk about your romantic fantasies and every few months fulfil one of your partner's fantasies;  sit down and tell each other all the qualities you love about each other;  phone each other just to say 'I love you' - not for any other reason.    

One man I know took his wife away for a weekend and covered the bed with long stemmed (de thorned!) red roses so they could make love on a bed of roses!  Hey - don't scoff until you've tried it!  Women usually love all that mushy stuff.

Why not have 'anything you desire' nights?  Where it's one partner's turn to have any wish they desire fulfilled!  Or leaving a little 'love present' on their car; at the front door etc;  or (I once did this!)  go to your partner's carpark and wrap the car with hearts and ribbons and 'I love you' note and fill it with 'I love you' balloons! (he was embarrassed but loved it!) Oh yes, I covered the windscreen with lipstick impressions of my lips!  (he wasn't so keen on that cos it was hard to clean!).

There are zillions of cheap and easy or expensive and exotic ideas for romance out there and they add a whole new dimension to your relationship if you haven't done them before or for ages.  So learn about these ideas by reading books, talking to each other and asking other friends 'what's the most romantic thing you've ever done or had done to you?'.     

Watch other couples who are romantic and watch people who are obviously in new relationships over dinners - you'll find ideas there. Like looking longingly and lovelingly into each others eyes; holding hands; laughing a lot; listening intently and responding animatedly to what the other one says etc etc etc!

Making the effort works both ways - you love the planning and anticipation and watching reactions;  they love and appreciate what you are doing and respond emotionally and physically;  you respond in turn; feel more loving and so on.   

Boy are you going to have fun!  Good luck!

]]> http://www.amandagore.com/where-do-men-learn-to-be-romantic/feed/ 0 How to have more time, energy + vitality and excitement in your relationships http://www.amandagore.com/how-to-have-more-time-energy-vitality-and-excitement-in-your-relationships/ http://www.amandagore.com/how-to-have-more-time-energy-vitality-and-excitement-in-your-relationships/#comments Tue, 07 Feb 2012 07:39:00 +0000 The Joy Blog http://www.thejoyproject.com/_blog/The_Joy_Blog/post/HOW_TO_HAVE_MORE_TIME,_MORE_ENERGY_AND_VITALITY_AND_MORE_EXCITEMENT_IN_YOUR_RELATIONSHIPS_AT_HOME_AND_WORK/ It seems to me that most people in our society want more time, energy and vitality and excitement in their relationships.   These are all aspects of wellness.


Time and the lack of it seems to be a great excuse for not doing wellness related activities like spending time with the family, spending time on yourself or exercise.   But how is is that some people seem to have more time than others or they accomplish more in the same time?  What's the difference that makes the difference?

The truth is that we all have the same Read more]]> It seems to me that most people in our society want more time, energy and vitality and excitement in their relationships.   These are all aspects of wellness.


Time and the lack of it seems to be a great excuse for not doing wellness related activities like spending time with the family, spending time on yourself or exercise.   But how is is that some people seem to have more time than others or they accomplish more in the same time?  What's the difference that makes the difference?

The truth is that we all have the same amount of time.  That's obvious.  How do we handle the time?  That's what makes the difference.  There are zillions of time management experts around the world who teach us how to be more efficient; how to prioritise; how to plan; how to delegate; how to sort and how to say no.  And these strategies are important.  

The single most important factor I think many of them miss is ..... what you say to yourself about time or how you programme yourself.  New research in the area of psychoneuroimmunology shows that what we say to ourselves about time often controls how effectively we use time.   

Are you suffering from 'hurry disease'?  Are you always saying things to yourself like..."I'm running out of time' or "I don't have enough time"  or "How will I ever fit this in', "I can't get all this done in that time"?  If you do, then it's on the cards that you are pumping yourself full of adrenalin and other stress chemicals that will eat away at you and somewhere down the track contribute to some stress related disease.

If "I'm running out of time" is you, then there is new evidence that suggests you may in fact be making your body age more quickly.  Just by what you say to yourself.  Becoming aware of your self talk is one of your most powerful wellness weapons and time management tips.   

The old adage 'more haste, less speed' is true.  If you tell yourself that you have plenty of time or you will fit everything in - as long as you have made a realistic list of things to do - then you have a much greater chance of achieving your target.  Even if you don't reach your target, at least your body won't be pumped full of adrenalin and other stress chemicals.  So you'll be 'weller'!  You may not be aware of it but you are in better chemical shape than someone who stressed themselves by constantly repeating comments about the lack of time.

Listen to what you say to yourself and to what words come out of your mouth. Once you become aware of how you are programming yourself you may choose to change it.  

When people ask you "how are you?", what do you answer?  "Rushed? Exhausted? Stretched? Stressed?"  All of these comments are sending messages to your subconscious mind programming you to be the way you say you are.  And they are causing stress chemicals to be released.  And stopping your effective use of time.

Of course, some people have more energy than others and can achieve more in the same time.  How do they have more energy? Is it genetic? NO!  high energy people usually make time to exercise - even if they have to get out of bed half and hour earlier.  They know that when they are fit they need about one and  a half hours less sleep per day.  They have more energy and vitality and less stress.  So they can do more in less time and they actually have more time than people who don't exercise.  But more of that another week.

In a nutshell,  two of the most powerful strategies for using time more efficiently are

1. to watch and listen to what you say to yourself and to others about time.  Change what you say and notice the difference!  

And 2. exercise on  a regular basis.  Or try making lists; and planning your day in the first few minutes after you wake up;  make a committment to yourself and allocate time for yourself somewhere during the day.  Take time to listen to your body and hear what it needs.   

As Michael Gerber wrote in his book "The E Myth", too many people are so busy working in their businesses, they don't take time to work ON their businesses. And often without this crucial planning, their businesses fail.   

The same applies to your life.  If you are so busy rushing around IN your life, coping with crises etc, and you never take time to work ON your life, the chances are you're not having much of a life.  

Are you making a life or making a living?  You do have a choice!
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