Norma's Journal

Awesome Potato Salad

2009-06-18T07:05:00.000-07:00

I love this potato salad! Make a few hours ahead of time or let chill overnight to allow flavors to mingle. If you like sweet, use sweet pickles or add sugar.

Serves 6

5 medium red or new potatoes, boiled until done, chop into bite sized pieces

4 eggs, boil 10 minutes, peel chop into smallish pieces

1 T or so Tabasco

3 ribs celery, chopped fine

3 half sour pickles, chopped fine

Handful of parsley, chopped fine

Small red onion, chopped fine

½ bunch of scallion, chopped fine

1/2-1 cup mayonnaise

1 juice from lemon

Salt and pepper

Black or green olives, chopped (optional)

While potatoes and eggs cooking, mix all vegetables. Cut potatoes and add lemon when hot. Mix Tabasco with a bit of mayonnaise. Mix eggs and potatoes with vegetables, add salt and pepper. Stir in mayo and Tabasco and extra mayo. Chill.

Kale Pie

2009-06-04T06:14:00.000-07:00

Really good and a different way to eat kale. I served with sweet potatoes.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

1 large bunch kale, or 2 medium, chopped
1 medium red onion
1 T olive oil
1/4 cup milk
6 oz sheep feta cheese, crumbled
6 eggs, beaten
Pepper
Pie crust

Saute onions until translucent and add kale. add a bit of water and cover on medium. Stir and watch water. Continue to saute, about 15 minutes or until tender.

Mix remaining ingredients and add kale. Place mixture in pie crust and bake 45 minutes.

Blackened Tofu on Caesar Salad

2009-05-21T07:59:00.000-07:00

This is a great and easy meal and I serve it with a good, warmed bread. Recipe yields several cups of blackened mixture; store in an airtight container. I use this mix on chicken and fish, too. I order organic bulk spices from Mountain Rose Gardens--cheap and fresh!

Extra firm tofu, cut into 1" cubes.
Blackened Mix
Canola oil

Coat tofu on all sides. Use a cast iron pan and coat it with some oil on a medium flame. Cook until tofu is nice and dark. Serve on a big Caesar salad.

Blackened Spice Mix

1 cup Garlic Powder

1 cup onion powder

2/3 cup paprika

1/3 cup cayenne

2/3 cup oregano

1/3 black pepper

1/3 cup cumin

2/3 cup lemon peel

1/3 cup tumeric

salt

Caesar Dressing

1 ½ olive oil/canola

2 T white vinegar

anchovy paste

2 garlic pressed

3 T lemon juice

2 T Dijon mustard

2 t white pepper

½ cup parmesan cheese

2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped

Add all ingredients except eggs and whisk or blend in a blender. Stir in eggs.

Fiddlehead Fern Recipes

2009-05-14T05:56:00.000-07:00

I love this time of year because, among other things, fiddelhead ferns are available! They have an earthy flavor, somewhat like asparagus. You may be able to get them from your local farmer, and Whole Foods carries them.

Do not eat them raw. Rinse thoroughly, and remove the brown scales with your fingers. Cut off the brown tips and excess stems.

Simple Fiddlehead Recipes

Fiddleheads
Salt
Butter
Steam 10 minutes or boil 5 minutes fiddleheads. Melt butter in a saute pan and lower hea, stir several minutes, allowing butter to brown. Toss fiddleheads into pan and add salt.

Fiddleheads
Oilive Oil
Salt
Heat oven to 425. Dry fiddleheads thoroughly and place on a tray, one layer deep. Toss fiddleheads with salt. Rub olive oil on ferns. bake about 30 minutes, tossing twice, until fiddleheads begin to brown.

You can add ingredients like lemon and garlic, but I keep this treat nice and plain.

Your Home Can Help or Hinder you Landing a Job

2009-04-30T07:45:00.000-07:00

Is your home cluttered and dirty? Is your home unwelcoming? If you answered yes to either of these questions and you are looking for a job, your home could be hurting your chances at success. Clean, remove clutter, and organize your home. Next, use the magic of Feng Shui and simple manifestation techniques to help you land the job of your dreams!

A home that is dirty, filled with clutter and unorganized is not a happy place to live in. The energy is stagnant and negative. Consequently, the people living in this environment will suffer. Clutter will literally bog you down and you will feel stagnant, unable to move on in your life. It will make you inefficient, because you are constantly searching for things. Stress, because searching for things causes anxiety. Lack of productivity and energy, as negative energy of clutter depresses.

This environment is hardly conducive to aiding you in a job search.

If you are living in these conditions, begin by cleaning your home thoroughly.
Next, get rid of the clutter. Clutter is anything that isn’t used or liked.

Sometimes, we hold onto stuff for sentimental reasons. Clutter can also be just too many objects on a given surface. If you collect stuff and don’t wish to get rid of those objects, another option is to rotate them. For instance, if you have six objects on a side table all vying for attention, store three away for half the year. Now, the three objects will look nice and you won’t have that cluttered look.
If you have things around that aren’t being used or enjoyed, that stuff is not giving off good energy and will make you feel stagnant in your life.

If the prospect of organizing is akin to a trip to the dentist, start with a small space. If cheap psychological tricks—like rewarding yourself for a job done—work, employ them. Conversely, do not try to organize a space so large that the project could take weeks—forcing you to look at depressing piles of things waiting to be organized or removed. Take that large space and divide it into easily managed projects.

The payoff for a clean, organized home or workplace free of unwanted clutter is immense. The energy in your home or workspace will change—stale and negative energy will be replaced with positive, powerful, life-enriching energy. The space will feel lighter. And that good energy will make you feel more energetic and happier. When you know where to find your belongings, you will find yourself with more time—to be more productive or to actually relax. Finally, a clean home—one that is as free as possible from dirt, mold and allergens—is a healthier space.

Once your home is organized and clean, you are ready for the fun and exciting part of your journey—using Feng Shui and manifestation to help you get your job. The following is a basic introduction to Feng Shui.

It is beyond the scope of this posting to give more than a rudimentary explanation of Feng Shui, but I hope this will interest you to study this remarkable practice further. Feng Shui is based all about energy, or chi and the placement of objects to increase good energy.

There are two levels of Feng Shui; the visible and the invisible. Moving, removing or adding objects is visible, but changes also occur on the invisible level. When I go to my chiropractor because my back hurts and he realigns it, I instantly feel great. One reason is because the pain is released, but the other reason is that energy is now flowing properly throughout my whole body, so it adds to my sense of well-being. When an object is in the correct place, it too exudes positive energy, which radiates and fills the space. When a room is in proper alignment, you cannot help but to feel good in it.

Another aspect of the invisible level of Feng Shui is to first visualize a particular outcome that you would like as a result of making a change. For example, you will learn how to add objects to a room to strengthen or bring love into your life. When adding these objects, you need to focus your thoughts on the object and visualize having a strong and happy marriage or finding your soul mate.

Above is the Bagua Map, used in Black Sect Feng Shui. to help you find a job, you will concentrate on the Career, Wealth and Helpful People categories. Picture the Bagua placed over your entire home or a single room. The door to the home or room must be in one of the three quadrants—career, knowledge or helpful people.

· Water flowing represents cash flow:
o Put a water fountain in entry room of your home..
o Put a water fountain in the wealth corner of the home or in the wealth corner of a room, like the entry or bedroom.
o Photograph or art depicting water
· Flowers
o Put fresh flowers anywhere in home for bright energy and to uplift spirits
· Fresh plants and bird feeders outside represent growth—as in career
When you add any of these objects, visualize yourself accepting the job of your dreams. Look at these objects on a daily basis and keep those positive thoughts in mind.

By the author of the award winning book,

Harmonious Environment: Beautify, Detoxify & Energize Your Life, Your Home & Your Planet, copyright 200

Susan Boyle Reveals our Misassumptions

2009-04-23T13:27:00.001-07:00

The first time I saw the YouTube video of Susan Boyle, I was pretty much blown away by her voice and the energy she invoked from the audience.
But what sticks with me is the reaction of the very attractive judges—first of mockery when she stood before them, then once they heard Susan’s voice, of delight and amazement.

Why is there amazement that an ordinary looking woman can hold a tune and have a beautiful voice? Why on earth would people make the assumption that an average looking person, or a disabled individual, or even terribly disfigured soul can’t sing?

Statistically, more ordinary people have great voices than very attractive ones do. It’s simple—let’s say that 75% of the population is ordinary looking and the rest fall on either side of the spectrum. Does it make any statistical sense that only the gifted in looks would also be gifted in voice?

Of course, ones singling ability has nothing to do with ones looks. What set Susan Boyle apart was her willingness—her courageousness—to face an audience and judges so warped as to assume only good looking people could sing.

The reality is, we have lots of famous singers who are pretty mediocre (at best) singers. They do, however, have other attributes: good looks, confidence, and performance ability. Virtually all of today’s female icons that could not even begin to compete with Susan’s voice. Instead, they know how to wear attention grabbing clothing, to dance and move; and they look great. These singers pick easy songs to sing that anyone who can carry a tune could pull off.

So why is the world so amazed with Susan Boyle? Certainly, she can sing and has a lovely voice. But are we amazed at her voice or is it her courageousness—her chutzpah—to stand before judges as an ordinary looking woman and ask to be given the chance that floors us? If so, shame on us.

On the other hand… many people, listeners of popular music only, may never have heard such a fine voice as Susan’s. Many are simply moved by her angelic voice.

Fiddlehead Fern Fever Recipe

2009-04-21T10:37:00.000-07:00

I love fiddlehead ferns! Every year, I look forward to the few weeks that they are available. Just called White Plains, NY Whole Foods and they said they'd be available in 1-2 weeks. A local farmer may have them in your area. Keep your eyes peeled for them and try them if you haven't already.

Fiddleheads are earthy and nutty--a cross between asparagus, artichokes and yum. I like my fiddleheads with salt and butter only, but you can add garlic, red peppers, or lemon.

Fiddleheads
Salt
Lemon, optional
Butter or a light oil, like canola or grapeseed

Trim stem down to 1-2" and remoce any mushy parts. Soak and rinse several ties, to remove dirt.

Bring water to boil and cook 1 minute. Drain and rinse with cold water. Heat oil or butter in a saute pan, add fiddleheads and cook 5 minutes, or until they begin to brown. Salt to taste and lemon juice, optional.

Avoid the Convenience Foods

2009-04-20T07:34:00.000-07:00

We are a nation that loves convenience and speed. Precooked frozen dinners, dehydrated food, meal-in-a-bag or can or box and microwave everything food. You can buy a frozen, microwavable egg and bacon breakfast! Or, how about luncheon meats with cheese and crackers all in one nifty package and ready to eat? We even have instant rice that takes five minutes to cook.

The length and names on the list of ingredients on most of these convenience foods is astounding. Unless certified organic, most prepared foods contain preservatives, artificial (chemical) flavors and colors, loads of salt, sugar and hydrogenated fats. Not listed would be pesticide residue from the ingredients in the product. I shudder to think about the meat source in processed food.

But these foods are a great time saver, you might argue. This instant rice takes only five minutes to cook! While the rice only takes five minutes to cook, everything else will take a half hour or more. How difficult is it to boil water or broth, add rice and allow it to simmer while cooking the rest of dinner? Instead of ending up with some pasty white stuff that has been stripped of most of its nutritional value, you can sit down to some wholesome and delicious real grains of rice.

The manufacturers of processed food want you to believe that you are saving a great deal of time and energy by buying their products. But, cooking healthy, tasty meals does not have to take a long time. If you plan well, you can cook for more than one meal at a time. The damage to the environment of excess packaging, the high cost of purchasing ready-made food and the low nutritional value (or downright unhealthy food) should convince you to make your own meals. In my opinion, processed food just tastes awful. Even if the stuff were nutritious I couldn’t eat it. Believe me, once you get used to the taste of real food, you will not want to eat processed food.

Raw, organic food tastes better than non-organic! Organic apples, sans the wax coating, actually taste and smell like apples! The clear, clean tastes of organic produce are unbeatable.

Most organic food is no longer much more expensive than non-organic and the gap is getting smaller every day. Buying raw ingredients instead of prepackaged is less expensive. Additionally, the long-term costs to our health and to the health of our planet should be an incentive to pay a little extra for organic ingredients. Also, if you invest in healthy organic food, you will probably save in doctor’s bills because your body will remain healthier.

Possibly the best reason to cook from scratch (or close to it) is that you add your love to the meal which affects everyone who eats your food. Think about when you have eaten meals prepared by happy, loving cooks. No matter what the meal was, it probably tasted good. Likewise, if you can avoid doing so, don’t cook if you are angry or depressed. The negative energies that you emit will enter the food.

Earth Day is April 22

2009-04-20T07:06:00.000-07:00

Earth Day is April 22. This year, make a vow to switch to reusuable tote bags instead of paper or plastic!

The following paragraph was in my first book, Harmonious Environment, published two years ago. Before the book came out, I rarely saw people using reusable shopping bags--now I see them everywhere! I'm not saying this paragraph made the difference (although I am hoping it made some..)The point is, consciousness about the need to green up our lifestyles has firmly taken root.

Tote Bags for Shopping
A monumental waste of resources and a source of pollution are the billions of plastic and paper shopping bags we dispose of after one trip to the store. Try collecting some tote bags and use them when shopping instead of plastic or paper. Once you get used to them, you will love them! They can hold a ton of stuff and are tough—so no more ripped open bags with your purchases scattered everywhere. For the holidays this year, buy them for your friends and family—let’s start a revolution!

By the author of the award winning book, Harmonious Environment: Beautify, Detoxify & Energize Your Life, Your Home & Your Planet, copyright 2007.

Freado-Book

2009-04-17T08:33:00.001-07:00

Cold Noodles and Sesame over Salad

2009-04-06T16:03:00.000-07:00

I have adapted this from the traditional Szechwan Chinese dish. Serve this with a salad, below. Warning: This is addicting! It is also a vegan recipe.

1 pound Chinese-style dried noodle (found in Asian food stores, the noodle looks like spaghetti, fettuccini or angel hair, but tastes different) or spaghetti/fettuccini
5 cloves garlic, minced
1-2 tablespoons ginger, minced
3 tablespoon black or white sesame seeds
1 bunch scallions, chopped
1 cucumber, cut into long thin shreds

Sauce:

2 tablespoon San-J® All Purpose Szechuan Hot and Spicy Sauce
1 cup crunchy or smooth natural peanut butter
3 tablespoons soy or tamari sauce
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Hot pepper flakes to taste
Water

While heating water to cook pasta; sauté ginger, sesame seeds and garlic. Adjust heat to low and add ingredients for sauce, stirring well. Add small amounts of water until you like the consistency—should be thin enough to coat the pasta easily. Taste the sauce, as you may want to add more of one or more ingredients. If it is too hot and spicy, add more peanut butter. Cook pasta, drain and toss in the sauce. Embellish with cucumber. Serve room temperature or warm.

Soy Dressing

This is excellent dressing for a salad served with cold noodles and sesame. Also, try as a dressing for cold cooked vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus.

3 parts olive oil

1 part white rice vinegar

1 part soy sauce

crushed garlic

Pepper

Your Home Can Help or Hinder you Landing a Job

2009-04-03T07:38:00.000-07:00

A home that is dirty, filled with clutter and unorganized is not a happy place to live in. The energy is stagnant and negative. Consequently, the people living in this environment will suffer. Clutter will literally bog you down and you will feel stagnant, unable to move on in your life. It will make you inefficient, because you are constantly searching for things. Stress, because searching for things causes anxiety. Lack of productivity and energy, as negative energy of clutter depresses.

This environment is hardly conducive to aiding you in a job search. If you are living in these conditions, begin by cleaning your home thoroughly.

Next, get rid of the clutter. Clutter is anything that isn’t used or liked. Sometimes, we hold onto stuff for sentimental reasons. Clutter can also be just too many objects on a given surface. If you collect stuff and don’t wish to get rid of those objects, another option is to rotate them. For instance, if you have six objects on a side table all vying for attention, store three away for half the year. Now, the three objects will look nice and you won’t have that cluttered look.

If you have things around that aren’t being used or enjoyed, that stuff is not giving off good energy and will make you feel stagnant in your life.

If the prospect of organizing is akin to a trip to the dentist, start with a small space. If cheap psychological tricks—like rewarding yourself for a job done—work, employ them. Conversely, do not try to organize a space so large that the project could take weeks—forcing you to look at depressing piles of things waiting to be organized or removed. Take that large space and divide it into easily managed projects.

The payoff for a clean, organized home or workplace free of unwanted clutter is immense. The energy in your home or workspace will change—stale and negative energy will be replaced with positive, powerful, life-enriching energy. The space will feel lighter. And that good energy will make you feel more energetic and happier. When you know where to find your belongings, you will find yourself with more time—to be more productive or to actually relax. Finally, a clean home—one that is as free as possible from dirt, mold and allergens—is a healthier space.

Once your home is organized and clean, you are ready for the fun and exciting part of your journey—using Feng Shui and manifestation to help you get your job. The following is a basic introduction to Feng Shui.

Bagua Map

It is beyond the scope of this posting to give more than a rudimentary explanation of Feng Shui, but I hope this will interest you to study this remarkable practice further. Feng Shui is based all about energy, or chi and the placement of objects to increase good energy.

There are two levels of Feng Shui; the visible and the invisible. Moving, removing or adding objects is visible, but changes also occur on the invisible level. When I go to my chiropractor because my back hurts and he realigns it, I instantly feel great. One reason is because the pain is released, but the other reason is that energy is now flowing properly throughout my whole body, so it adds to my sense of well-being. When an object is in the correct place, it too exudes positive energy, which radiates and fills the space. When a room is in proper alignment, you cannot help but to feel good in it.

Another aspect of the invisible level of Feng Shui is to first visualize a particular outcome that you would like as a result of making a change. For example, you will learn how to add objects to a room to strengthen or bring love into your life. When adding these objects, you need to focus your thoughts on the object and visualize having a strong and happy marriage or finding your soul mate.

To help you find a job, you will concentrate on the Career, Wealth and Helpful People categories. Picture the Bagua placed over your entire home or a single room. The door to the home or room must be in one of the three quadrants—career, knowledge or helpful people.

· Water flowing represents cash flow:

o Put a water fountain in entry room of your home..

o Put a water fountain in the wealth corner of the home or in the wealth corner of a room, like the entry or bedroom.

o Photograph or art depicting water

· Flowers

o Put fresh flowers anywhere in home for bright energy and to uplift spirits

· Fresh plants and bird feeders outside represent growth—as in career

When you add any of these objects, visualize yourself accepting the job of your dreams. Look at these objects on a daily basis and keep those positive thoughts in mind.

Roasted Kale

2009-04-03T06:30:00.000-07:00

This recipe is addictive. Eat with your fingers like french fries! One bunch 2 people.
Preheat oven to 425.
Kale, spine removed, wash and dry very well.
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Sprinkle some salt and pepper on kale and coat with oil and place on a baking sheet. Bake 510 minutes, turn kale and bake approximately 10 minutes. Kale should be crisp but not brown.

Tuna Steak with Sesame Seeds, Roasted Broccoli and Black Japonica Rice

2009-03-23T11:08:00.000-07:00

This is a simple and delicious meal. Japonica rice and wheat berries are nutty and chewy and this dish works really well with the tuna. Black sesame seeds taste the same as white, but look far more dramatic. The peanut oil withstands high temps and works well with seeds.

Tuna Steak with Sesame Seeds
4-6 ounces tuna per person
Black or white sesame seeds (black available at Asian markets)
Oil to cover pan, I prefer peanut
Salt & pepper
Wasabi Mayonnaise
Heat a cast iron pan until hot. Mix sesame seeds, salt & pepper and coat tuna with mixture. Cook until medium rare, 2 minutes a side.
Serve with wasabi mayonnaise--purchase already made or make your own.

Black Japonica Rice
1 cup rice
¼ cup wheat berries
2 ½ cups chicken or vegetarian broth
1 onion, chopped
1 teaspoon butter
Salt
Sauté onion in butter until wilted, boil water, add rice and berries and simmer on low, 50 minutes. Sit 10.
Roasted Broccoli
1 head broccoli
2 cloves garlic, minced
lemon, juice and zest
Salt and pepper
2-3 tablespoons olive oil

Preheat oven to 425. Cut florets from stems, trim tough part of stems and slice into bite sized pieces. On a baking sheet, combine broccoli, garlic, salt and pepper, olive oil. Bake in oven 20-25 minutes, until broccoli begins to brown, stirring once or twice. When broccoli is done, toss with lemon juice and zest.

Corned Beef Leftovers

2009-03-16T09:11:00.000-07:00

Irish or not, many of us make corned beef this time of year—myself included. If you don’t know what to do with leftovers—or if you want something new, read on.

I buy corned beef once a year and usually make it with the traditional stuff—cabbage, potatoes and carrots. This year, my husband and I weren’t into the boiled stuff, so I got a small hunk of free-range corned beef and made Reuben sandwiches.

I’m obsessed with the desire that all dishes I make for a meal playing nicely with each other. My husband and I were thrilled with what I paired with the sandwiches—roasted kale. If you have never had it, you are missing a real treat. The kale gets crispy and you eat it with your fingers—like French fires—only better and far more healthy. This recipe is addictive!

Roasted Kale: for two

Preheat oven to 425.
1 bunch of kale, remove spine
1-2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt & pepper
Wash and dry very well. Sprinkle a small amount of salt and pepper on kale and toss. Coat kale with oil and place on a baking sheet. Bake 10 minutes, turn kale and bake approximately another 10 minutes. Kale should be crisp and lightly brown, but not burnt.

Reuben—per person
¼ pound corned beat, fat trimmed
1 ½ slice of swiss cheese
Sauerkraut
2 pieces rye bread

1000 Island dressing
Mix approx. 2-1 mayonnaise and ketchup. Add some diced pickles.

Preheat oven to broil and rack on top rung. Put bread on an oven safe rack. Put meat on one slice. Cheese on the other sclice of bread and top with sauerkraut. Broil until cheese melts. Add dressing, and put two sides together. Yum!

Cioppino Recipe

2009-03-13T06:18:00.000-07:00

This dish is so easy to make and delicious! Serve it with a good bread and either salad or throw a bunch of spinach in the dish. Use a nice dry white wine like Unoaked Chardonnay or a Bordeaux.
½ lb shrimp
½ lb scallops
2 cans clams
½ head of garlic, minced
1 cup dry white wine
1 can whole tomatoes, chopped
1 teaspoon oregano
2 bay leaves
Salt & pepper
Handful parsley, chopped
Baby spinach, optional
Sauté garlic, add clam juice and reduce to about half. Add wine, tomatoes and spices and cook 5 minutes. Add seafood, cook 3 minutes or until done. Add parsley and spinach, allowing spinach to just wilt. Serve with bread.

Your Home as a Safe Haven

2009-02-24T12:25:00.000-08:00

In these times of economic upheaval, it’s tough to keep stress levels down. Most of us know some ways to keep stress in control; eat right, get plenty of sleep, exercise, meditate. But, did you know that making your home a safe haven can also be extremely beneficial?

The other day, Oprah had Peter Walsh, the organizational expert on her show. The segment was about clutter and how it’s the last thing we need in troubled times, as clutter makes us feel unsafe and anxious.

As an eco-friendly interior designer and Feng Shui expert, I have had the honor of helping many clients transform their lives by changing their homes. Living in a home filled with positive energy, with beauty, a home that is clean, organized and clutter-free makes the occupants feel safe. In safety comes freedom; freedom to be creative, to be motivated and energetic.

Best of all, it doesn’t need to cost a fortune to create your sanctuary. I recommend the following steps to create your safe haven:

· Eliminate harmful products and replace them with eco-friendly ones. This step will improve your health and the health of the planet.

· Clean your home well and get rid of clutter! This is huge and you can even make money by selling your stuff! A clean home is a healthier home and just feels good. Clutter, as mentioned previously, causes stress, confusion, depression and lethargy. Get rid of anything you don’t love, need or have used for over a year.

· Clear your home of negative energy with smudging or dowsing. See a previous post of mine on smudging.

· Get rid of processed food and eat wholesome and organic.

· Allow energy, or chi, to flow unobstructed throughout your home. Don’t crowd furniture.

· Use color to your benefit. The cool colors, like blue and purple, are great in the bedroom because they lower blood pressure and help us relax. Social rooms, like the kitchen and living room, benefit from the warm, expansive colors like yellow, red, and orange.

· Place objects in the Bagua to attract whatever you want—love, money, fame.

· Balance each room with all four elements—earth, air, fire, and water.

· Houseplants add great energy and suck up indoor air pollution.

· Treat yourself to flowers every week—simply my favorite way to make my home feel like a sanctuary.

· Learn to decorate with confidence! Don’t worry about what’s in style—decorate to please your unique style.

One last suggestion--have fun while doing this! Transforming your home into a sanctuary is really enjoyable—something we all need a bit of now.

By the author of the award winning book, Harmonious Environment: Beautify, Detoxify & Energize Your Life, Your Home & Your Planet.

Interview on The Benefits of getting Rid of Clutter

2009-02-11T08:15:00.000-08:00

Love To Know posted their interview with me about the benefits of getting rid of clutter. I discuss the benefits of cleaning and getting rid of clutter, how to decide what is clutter, and tips on getting rid of stuff. Get an early start to spring cleaning and read interview!

Have a Green Valentine’s Day!

2009-02-06T06:57:00.000-08:00

First, some bad news…those roses that are such popular Valentine’s Day gifts are probably from Columbia in South America, where they are heavily doused with chemicals. Pesticides usage isn't regulated in Columbia and they pose a great threat to the health of the workers. Pesticide run-off also poisons the waterways and land, sickening fish and wildlife. Even the handling of the roses by florists isn’t safe. If you see white residue on roses—or other flowers—those are pesticides. So, if you are going to buy roses for V-day, make them organic and/or from the US or Holland.

The following are some green alternatives for the holiday. With few exceptions, even a green gift leaves some imprint on the planet. Instead of exchanging material gifts, an eco-friendly option is to exchange services. Something romantic, like massages, or breakfast in bed, or trade favors.

If you give or receive any gift that isn’t liked, it isn’t green, as it is unwanted and will not be used. My husband and I do an alternative to gift exchanging. When we first met, we bought each other gifts. As the years went by, however, we realized that gift-giving was nearly impossible.

However, my husband and I do enjoy artwork and hand-made crafts and buying them together. Just after we moved into our new home, we found a beautiful, eco-friendly, wall fountain that was perfect for our entryway. So, we bought it for our birthdays, which are 12 days apart. Somehow, the fountain feels more special because we bought it together to celebrate our births.

We stick to natural hand-made products and artwork—so it’s green. Plus, because we buy only what we love, we will have these things forever—they are objects that someone will always want and art will never find its way into landfill.

You can find art in your local community, at art and craft fairs, on vacations, even online. You don’t necessarily need to spend a lot of money and your purchases helps support the individual and the arts. And, you get to live with unique and beautiful pieces.

If you are just getting into a green lifestyle, I know it can be confusing to determine what is and isn’t green. The following is a basic guide.

· The closer to home the better—less transportation equals less pollution from transportation.

· Products made from renewable resources are good; non-renewable, meaning only finite amounts of the product are available, are bad.

· Avoid the use of petrochemicals whenever possible. Petrochemicals come from oil which is a finite resource. When burned—like in your car—it emits CO2, which is bad for the environment. Used in a wide variety of products, chemicals can outgass into your home and make you sick; plastic containers in the microwave leech into food. Finally, petrochemical-based products take forever to disintegrate and as they do, they leech into the ground and water. All plastic, synthetic products, chemicals and more come from oil. Whenever you can, avoid using.

· Recycled anything is good—paper, aluminum, glass, etc.

· Wood from sustainable, renewable forests is good. Bamboo is good.

· Think natural, non-toxic, abundant, and biodegradable.

Harmonious Environment: Beautify, Detoxify & Energize Your Life, Your Home & Your Planet.

Shredded Vegetables

2009-02-02T09:30:00.000-08:00

I am always looking for new vegetables and recipes to keep them interesting. I love this recipes, because it tastes great, cooks quickly and is easy to prepare if you have a food processor. I've tried many different combinations, but last night used celery root, broccoli stems and choyote and my husband and I loved it!

Use any of the following and shred in food processor:

Carrots, peeled
Broccoli stems, remove hard outer coat
Celery Root, peeled
Jicama, peeled
Zucchini
Choyote, pit removed

Shred vegetables and cook 5-10 minutes in a bit of olive oil. Remove from heat, add salt and pepper to taste and some lemon juice.

How to Sell Your Home: Interview with Mike Eastman and Jill Westfall

2009-01-30T07:52:00.000-08:00

In preparation for my new book, I have been interviewing real estate industry experts. This interview is with Atlanta Realtor, Mike Eastman and author, Jill Westfall. Their contact information is at the end of this post. Sign up for the newsletter, to the right of the blog, for book updates and other information.

1. HHow would you describe the market in Atlanta on January 28, 2009.

Mike Eastman, Atlanta Realtor, www.TheIvyRealtor.com, says, "This is the year of the Hot Deals for my clients.” He recently negotiated a contract during the last week of December on a brand-new home in a new development by Decatur, which was finalized at $200,000 below the original list price. At the closing, the builder (who had gone belly up, as had the bank financing the deal) was counting his blessings - his health and his family, while letting my client know he was broke. There would be no opportunity to get any more work done on the house after closing as builders will traditionally do. My client was very respectful of his position and situation, as was I. She got the home for $575,000 with an all-cash offer (a very powerful bargaining chip) even though the builder was assuming a material loss for anything below $650,000 on a home originally listed at close to $800,000. He was essentially paying her to buy his house. Understand that builders like this one make tons of money some years and have years like 2008, its part of the game. Still, we felt his pain. The positive side of that is that the market is so soft right now that some very striking deals are available. They are not everywhere and going into this, even I had no idea how much this builder would come down in price. But this turned into a dramatic example of what is possible in this market. There is actually still one brand-new home by this builder left in this new development where my client bought."

By the way," this buyer actually didn't approach her search looking for bargains. She looked for an entire year with a very critical eye towards the type of house she was willing to buy. Once she found the house she could love, she switched gears and negotiated hard for the best price and was supported by the strength of an all-cash offer. We did have some clue that a bargain might be had with this home, however, as the builder had turned off the home's utilities - to save money."

"This is an excellent case study of someone who truly got a sizzling hot deal. She plans to live in the home long-term and is likely to profit from the deal by well over the $200,000 she saved by making her move in 2008 - the best climate for buyers that we will ever see in our lifetimes, which is continuing into 2009."

Mike says, "This is the best market buyers will ever see. Sellers looking to move up are likely to have to sell at a marginal loss. I found a home in Huntcliff this week that resold after less than two years at a $75,000 loss, but that buyer is likely to more than make up for it on the purchase of a new home. Huntcliff is otherwise a very stagnant market."

2. What is the average length of time a house sits on the market before it is sold? Mike: “It depends entirely on the price. I just submitted an offer for a client on a home that was in foreclosure, priced $200,000 below its actual value ($600,000-plus) and the home received seven other offers at the same time. My client offered $40,000 above the asking price – and still didn’t get the home. I’m taking on a listing for another client, which has been on the market for over 18 months. This is an executive home she bought for around $394,000 and renovated, hoped to make a profit on, with a starting price around $714,000. She’s a seasoned investor and three to four years ago this may have worked very well for her. But not in this market.”

3. What percent of the homes are being sold that are either in foreclosure or bank owned versus sold by owner? Question 3 to 7: Mike covers the metro Atlanta market so this would be a hard generalization to make, but there are a tremendous number of homes in foreclosure right now. Here are some examples of what we are seeing:

There is a $1.125 million home (zillow estimate) on the market for $585,000 - near Collier Hills – a coveted, expensive area in metro Atlanta. The home has an unfinished renovation that will require $30,000 to $40,000 to complete.

There is a gorgeous home in the Rivermont subdivision in North Fulton, which was in foreclosure last winter for $290,000. The home remains on the market and is now a steal at $220,000. The home has a gorgeous, renovated kitchen and shows extremely well.

There is a “Street of Dreams” in Atlanta steps from Morehouse College and The Atlanta Beltline, where homes sold for $200,000 and up two, and five years ago and are now going for $50,000, $40,000, $30,000 and even as little as $12,000. The Beltline is predicted to spark a dramatic rise in properties bordering it, which makes this such a sweet deal.

4. What is average cost of a home in your area? See above

5. What was average cost of home 3 years ago? See above

6. How does that compare to 5 years ago? See above

7. How does that compare to 10 years ago? See above

8. What is the average price paid for a home over or under the asking price? Under the asking price

9. When you list a home, do you make suggestions to seller on things they can do to improve home to sell it? Rarely, Mike works with clients in the executive-home market ($400,000s and up), and they tend to be very on top of landscaping, interior decorating, power washing and painting their homes. Atlanta is really into fancy interior design and this is the norm for most homes.

10. If so, what are common recommendations that you make?

The first place to start with any project is to clean, remove clutter and depersonalize the home. A property must be appealing before potential buyers will visually place themselves in the home and this begins with the outside. Trim bushes and plants, remove dead plants, branches and greenery, roll up hoses, add a welcoming doormat, consider adding a planter with seasonal color, and power wash and freshen paint as necessary. Consider painting the front door a welcoming color, like red.

Donna Mathis of DMD Studios suggests the following techniques: “Upon entering the home, study what the first impression will be. Where space does your eye travel to? Remove the clutter so that the buyers mentally visualize the room with their own belongings. If the room seems stuffed or overcrowded, remove the larger pieces of furniture to visually open up the space. Short-term rental furniture is often a fix for oversized or outdated furniture. Several short-term leasing options are available that can help to transform a space for a relatively small cost. Updating the look of your home broadens the appeal to potential buyers and helps occupied or older properties compete with newer homes.”

In kitchens and bathrooms, remove the clutter of everyday living and leave open space for the eye to visually take in. Make sure that the walls are freshly painted and inviting. In the bathrooms, consider adding some appealing items like scented soaps, candles, fresh fluffy towels tied with ribbons and yummy facial creams and lotions – the type you might see at the spa. In the kitchen, consider buying flowers – either fresh or a beautiful silk flower arrangement. Gravitate towards bright and cheerful colors – oranges, reds and yellows. Add a bowl of lemons and oranges. Consider an essential oil diffuser and choose scents by the season. Set your dining room table using your finest linens.

Personal expression tends to be emphasized in the bedrooms, especially kids’ rooms; consider painting them neutral; this low-cost item that is more labor intensive but is worth it. Look at furniture placement in the rooms and remember to remove any pieces that overcrowd the room. Let the potential buyer visualize the space in the manner that they would use it. Again, consider flower arrangements (for color) and essential oil diffusers. Everything should look and smell clean, bright and fresh. Make sure the window treatments don’t obstruct light or view. If they do, consider taking them down - and make sure the windows are clean!

11. What are some of the biggest mistakes people make when putting their home on the market? Overpricing the home. Also trying to go it alone (for sale by owner), it’s very hard for homeowners to be objective in terms of the relative value of their homes.

12. Are buyers asking about green features in homes? (Solar panels, Energy Star rated appliances, programmable thermostats, sustainable wood floors, etc.) Yes, there is keen interest in this in Atlanta. Our government policy when it comes to “green” ranks among the worst in the nation, however, the consumer interest in green ranks extremely high.

13. Do homes with green features sell for more? Yes, we included the following information from McGraw Hill Construction in “Green Matters” –

The major findings of the 2008 survey, which is co-sponsored by the

National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), include:

- The residential green building market is expected to be worth $12 billion

to $20 billion (6 percent to 10 percent of the market) this year.

- In five years (2012), the market is expected to double to 12 percent to

20 percent market share, or $40 billion to $70 billion.

- 40 percent of builders think green building helps them market their homes in

a down market.

Quality has emerged in this down market as the most important reason for building green. Previously, builders were motivated by energy cost savings of green homes and doing the right

thing, which still came in #2 this year. This is likely due to green home

marketing and how it improves quality of life.

“We have hit the tipping point for builders going green,” said Harvey M. Bernstein, McGraw-Hill Construction vice president of Industry Analytics, Alliances and Strategic Initiatives. “This year, the number

of builders who are moderately green -- those with 30 percent green projects -- has surpassed those with a low share of green -- those who are green in less than 15 percent of their projects. Next year, we will

see even greater growth, with highly green builders -- those with 60 percent green projects -- surpassing those with a low share of green. This year has seen an 8 percent jump over last year, and we expect

another 10 percent increase next year.”

“It’s official. Green has gone mainstream,” said Ray Tonjes, chair of the Green Building Subcommittee for NAHB. “And now, the NAHB National Green Building Program is making it easier for home builders to provide sustainable, environmentally friendly homes for their customers. We’re ready for the market transformation that McGraw-Hill Construction estimates.”

As a realtor, do you point out green features (or are they written on the sell sheet)? Yes, green is a hot issue in Atlanta.

What are the most popular features people are looking for in homes today? Updated kitchens, hardwoods, open floor plans, green features, and generous natural light.

What are the most unpopular features? Open floor plans continue to be highly popular in Atlanta so boxy floor plans with poor lighting are very unpopular.

Do people prefer carpet or wood flooring? Wood flooring

What is the favored type of flooring? Hardwoods, cork is also becoming increasingly popular and is considered green.

What green renovations would you suggest? Better insulation (you can drill right into the walls and apply spray foam over fiberglass), compact fluorescent lights, dual-flush toilets, plumbing for gray water (easy and affordable), sealing ductwork (not with duct tape but a paste called Mastic), sealing crawl spaces, solar hot water, low-E windows, tank-less hot water heater, geothermal heat pump.

Do you have any numbers for money saved or percentages for specific renovations? (Windows, insulation, etc.) A home renovated to the max when it comes to green can expect energy savings of 50 percent or more.

Can you add a geothermal system to an already built home? Costs? That’s a good question. Yes, we interviewed someone for our book who was considering adding a geothermal system to an existing home. The average cost is $7,500.

Costs for solar panels? For solar hot water heating, $3000; to power the entire home, around $40,000. The former is practical to do today; the latter is not there yet, from a cost-savings perspective. People tend not to go all the way with solar power and only invest $10,000 to $20,000 in solar panels. Expect a revolution, here, in five to ten years.

Would a house with solar panels/geothermal be worth more? How much more? That’s very debatable right now and you could argue it either way.

Michael Eastman is an award-winning Yale-educated Real Estate Specialist in Atlanta. He is a columnist with GreenBuiltBlog.com and AtlantaRealEstateForum.com, was the 2008 President of the Yale Club of Georgia and is the Founder of TeamIvy, a 12-year-old professional networking group comprised of 2,000 alums from the Ivy League Universities and Seven Sisters Colleges. Board members include graduates from Yale, Harvard, Bryn Mawr, Emory, Cornell and the Wharton School of Business. He is a member of the Million-Dollar Club and an award recipient for multi-million dollar sales volume. He has 20-plus years sales experience, has generated over $80 million in revenue and is currently with Solid Source Realty, The Ivy Realtor.

Jill Elizabeth Westfall is a Financial Columnist for MomCorps, a bylined Contributor to Money magazine for 15 years, and has shared investing and cost-cutting tips with HGTV's The Front Door, Glamour magazine, Woman's Day Online, Home Improvement Magazine, MediaBistro.com, BobVila.com and The Publicity Show. Her work has been featured in People, MORE, Time, Newsweek, Newsday, The New York Times, The New York Daily News, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Newsday, CNN International, Rocky Mountain News, The Asbury Park Press and The Anchorage Daily News.

Her original reporting has been subsequently picked up by The Today Show, CNN, The Discovery Channel, German television, radio stations (from Canada to South America), the BBC, and talk shows nationwide. She has worked on four book projects as ghostwriter, and first wrote on 'green' for the best-selling book “The 100-Year Lifestyle" by Eric Plasker - published by Adams Media in March 2007. The book sold out multiple times on Amazon, and was marketed as a hot item by the publisher.

A passion for green (and publishing) runs in the family, her father is the retired CEO of Newsprint South. Under his leadership, the $350-million company (formerly owned by GE) was the greenest manufacturer of newsprint in the United States. The book is dedicated to him. Upon its acquisition by Bowater Incorporated in 2000, Arnold Nemirow, Bowater's Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer cited it as ‘one of the best newsprint mills in the world.’

Jill was a weekly Contributing Writer to The Atlanta Journal-Constitution's real estate section for eight years, has reported on hundreds of communities throughout Atlanta, and has frequently contributed real estate reporting to Money - including "Best Places to Live" and "Best Places to Retire."

Contact:

Mike is with Solid Source Realty in Atlanta, www.TheIvyRealtor.com

Jill: Email: jillwestfall@aol.com

How to Sell Your Home: Interview with Landscape Designer Chris Cipriano

2009-01-29T07:06:00.000-08:00

As I mentioned in my last past, I am writing a book on how to sell your home in this market and have been interviewing industry experts. The following is my interview with Landscape Designer Chris Cipriano.

1. What are the most popular features you install for your clients?

Installing urns loaded with flowers and custom fountains are incredibly popular and a great way to increase your home’s sales appeal. For those on the more creative side, installing an outdoor kitchen is a great way to differentiate your home and make it more unique to buyers. In terms of adding value, renovating an out of date swimming pool will provide favorable return on investment.

2. What are the most important features a homeowner can add to their property to add value?

It is incredibly important to have a professionally tuned outdoor landscape. Creating a natural and comfortable outdoor setting by adding the right combination of shrubs, trees, flowers and natural stone is certain to add value and an essential element of selling the home.

3. What are the biggest mistakes people do to detract value?

The biggest mistake people make is ignoring the outdoors. Too often, homeowners that want to sell their homes focus all their time, energy and money on fixing up and staging the indoors of the house. A poor outdoor landscape will negatively influence potential buyers before they even enter the home, thus detracting from the home’s value and appeal.

4. Describe the features that would give a home good “curb appeal.”

Curb appeal is essential. The view from the street is the first, last and most important impression on all potential buyers. If a home does not have curb appeal, potential buyers will drive right by without stopping to take a second look.

If you want loads of curb appeal, great layering of plants, trees and flowers is essential. Use groups of the same plant types to create a natural look, and be sure to install an abundance of color. Color sells!

5. When dealing on a budget, what elements on the property are the must-do’s to sell a home?

For those staging their outdoors on a budget, it is often just as important what they take away from their property as opposed to what they add. Make sure that all old equipment, tools and clutter are put away and that everything looks professional. Mow the lawn professionally and remove weeds and debris.

Pressure wash porches, decks and the siding to create a clean look for the buyer. Spruce up the gardens by adding a variety of color and install a few hanging plants to the front porch. It is also affordable, and incredibly beneficial, to fix up the front walk or install a new pathway leading to the front door.

Finally, install outdoor lighting that reveals your home’s most favorable characteristics, even in the dark. Remember, most people go house shopping after work when it is dark out. If they can’t see the home, they will pass it right by.

6. Describe a dream landscaped property.

A dream landscaped property would have all the latest features: a custom pool and fountain, a nice porch or deck, an outdoor kitchen, an entertainment area and a great assortment of shrubs, stones, greens, trees and flowers. It will look well thought out and natural at the same time.

7. Do you see any changes with what people want over the past 5 years?

Recently, homeowners have begun to look for more unique elements to add to their outdoors like kitchens, entertainment areas, cabanas, fountains and spas. With the down economy, more people are “staycationing” (staying at home instead of going on vacation). As a result, they try to create a vacation-like resort in their own backyards.

8. Are people spending the same, more or less (adjusted for inflation) than they were 5 years ago?

In general, homeowners are looking for value and prioritizing spending on luxury landscaping as compared to five years ago.

Due to the challenges in the real estate market, people are prioritizing curb appeal and spending more money on home staging services.

9. Are people interested in “green landscaping?”

Yes. A great new “green landscaping” technology are rain gardens.

The rain garden reduces rain runoff by filtering storm water and allowing it to soak into the ground as opposed to the tradition method of allowing it to flow into storm drains or seepage pits. By absorbing and filtering the water, rain gardens significantly reduce the amount of pollution reaching creeks and streams.

10. Is there anything else you would like to add

When performed correctly, staging the outdoors will increase the value of your home and help it sell quicker on the open market. To ensure ROI, consider investing in a certified landscape architect’s home staging services.

I also happen to be a passionate gardener and my husband and I have been working on our property for several years. Here are some photographs:Property.

Contact:

Chris Cipriano
Cipriano Landscape Design
43 Spring St
Ramsey, NJ 07446
Web: www.plantnj.com
Phone: 201-785-0800

How to Sell Your Home: Interview with Bill Golden, Atlanta Realtor

2009-01-27T06:54:00.000-08:00

This is the first post in a new series about what you need to do to sell your home in this market. In virtually the entire country we are currently facing difficult times for sellers. The situation was enough to compel me to write a book about how to sell your home in this economy--and still make some money.

I decided to reach out across the country to get first-hand knowledge of the real estate situation and have had many realtors, designers, stagers and other professionals in the business share their experiences with me.

Bill Golden is a Re/Max Realtor in the Atlanta Metro Cityside region. He has been in the business for 22 years He can be reached at bill@billgoldenhomes.com and 404.634.7728. The following is our interview. Please feel free to post any comments to either Bill or myself on this blog and either of us will respond.

1. How would you describe the market in Atlanta on 1/23/09?
The market here is definitely slow, though it varies according to area and price range. The prices in most areas haven’t really dropped, but they have not appreciated as they have in the past.

2. What is the average length of time a house sits on the market before it is sold?
This too, depends on the area, but in the “intown” Atlanta market in the last 6 months, a single family residential home has sat on the market for an average of 76 days.

3. How does that compare to 5 years ago?
Five years ago, that number was most likely more like 45 days.

4. How does that compare to 10 years ago?
Ten years ago, the market was very strong here, so I would say it was closer to 30 days.

5. What is the average price paid for a home over or under the asking price?
In the same market for the last 6 months, the average List Price/Sale Price ratio was approximately 93%, which is definitely down. That number is usually around 96%.

6. When you list a home, do you make suggestions to seller on things they can do to improve home to sell it?
Absolutely!

7. If so, what are common recommendations that you make?
Usually a lot of de-cluttering, cleaning, fresh paint/carpet if necessary, freshened landscaping, staging if necessary.

8. What are some of the biggest mistakes people make when putting their home on the market?
Number one mistake people make is overpricing. Many times homeowners try to justify that by saying they’re not in a hurry. Unfortunately, that logic doesn’t work. If the home sits on the market a long time, you generally end up getting less than if you had priced it right from the start.
Of course, one of the other mistakes some folks make is trying to sell their home without a Realtor, or using a cut-rate service. In this difficult time, sellers need a professional marketing their home more than ever.
Another common mistake is spending money on “improvements” that they then want to recoup in the sales price. Before you make any improvements to sell your home, it’s best to contact a Realtor who knows the market and can tell you accurately what changes are worth making, and which ones aren’t.

9. Are buyers asking about green features in homes? (Solar panels, Energy Star rated appliances, programmable thermostats, sustainable wood floors, etc.)
I don’t see it that much in the market I work in, which is mostly comprised of older homes. I’m sure it has more of an impact on new homes.

10. Do homes with green features sell for more?
Unfortunately, no. At least not in my market. They may, however, help your home sell faster. In other words, a buyer may not pay more for those features, but they may choose a home with those features over one that doesn’t have them.

11. As a Realtor, do you point out green features (or are they written on the sell sheet)?
Absolutely, I will point out any green features of a home, and they should also be written on the flyer/brochure for the home.

12. What are the most popular features people are looking for in homes today?
As has been the case for a long time, kitchens and baths seem to really sell homes. Even if they’re not totally renovated, if they are clean and move-in ready, that’s appealing to a buyer. Also, most buyers like a floor plan where the kitchen is open to the family room or some other space where folks can gather.
Most buyers today prefer hardwood floors over carpet, and also a low-maintenance yard.

13. What are the most unpopular features?
Most buyers don’t want choppy floor plans where rooms don’t open to each other. They also don’t like laminate floors, stippled ceilings, or bathrooms with outdated “gold” fixtures.

14. Do people prefer carpet or wood flooring?
Definitely wood flooring.

15. What is the favored type of flooring?
Real wood floors.

16. Do beige walls really sell?
Not necessarily, but definitely when compared with strong colors.

17. What colors do you recommend on walls?
I generally recommend light, muted tones, in the khaki/green family, depending on the furnishings of the home. Also, white or very light moldings and trim.

18. Do you like particular colors for different rooms? For example, a yellow kitchen?
No. Each situation is different.

19. Do you think staging works to sell a home?
In some cases, absolutely. If a home has all fresh paint and gleaming hardwood floors, it may show just as well vacant. Staging definitely helps in cases where the home has an odd floor plan, or oddly shaped/sized rooms. It helps define those spaces. If a home is decorated in a very specific style, it may help to neutralize it somewhat, so a buyer is able to picture their own style in the home.

20. What elements of staging are most successful?
See above.

21. Do you think Feng Shui helps to sell a home?
I’ve never had it come up!

22. What elements make a home feel good?
Cleanliness and a pleasant smell.

23. What elements make a home feel bad?
Dirt, messiness, and bad odors.

24. Is there anything else you would like to add?
Only that in this market, where there is so much competition, a seller needs to make their home stand out, either with the presentation or the value. Or better yet, both!

To get notification of more interviews and news on new book, please sign up for the newsletter, to the right of this post.

Flowers Improve Your Health! Part II

2009-01-22T07:24:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I wrote a post on why you need flowers in your home. See: Why You Need Flowers in Your Home. Today is about research the shows how flowers improve our health and well being.

Both plants and flowers elevate our energy and when plants are flowering, their energy is strongest. Because their energy is so powerful, the use of flowers in your home or workspace is the one of the best ways to bring in vibrant energy to help improve your life.

In the early 1930'3, Edward Bach, an English physician, discovered that he could heal patients of emotional and psychological difficulties using thirty-eight different flower remedies. Today, these flower remedies are used worldwide. (See the www.Bachcentre.com for more information.)

I use Bach’s Rescue Remedy when I feel stressed and nervous while driving—or anytime. Bach’s flower essences can be found in most natural food stores. Just four sprays or drops onto your tongue and you will feel instantly calmer. Rescue Remedy has helped me go from clenching the wheel and cursing my situation to relaxed, happy thoughts in a matter of seconds.

A behavioral research study conducted in 2000 at Rutgers State University of New Jersey found that flowers improve our emotional health. The presence of flowers, it was discovered, triggers happy emotions, improves feelings of life satisfaction and affects social behavior in a positive manner.

A team of researchers studied the link between flowers and life satisfaction in a ten-month study of participants’ behavioral and emotional responses to receiving flowers. There was a universal reaction of delight and gratitude when receiving flowers, indicated by “true” or “excited” smiles.

The experiment found that flowers have a long-term positive effect on moods. Study participants reported feeling less depressed, anxious and agitated after receiving flowers, and demonstrated a higher sense of enjoyment and life satisfaction.

According to Dr. Haviland-Jones of the Rutgers study: “Flowers bring about positive emotional feelings in those who enter a room and they make the space more welcoming and create a sharing atmosphere.”

The next post will show you how buying flowers can be eco—friendly and actually help you buy less stuff.

For more on how to create a sanctuary, read my book, Harmonious Environment: Beautify, Detoxify & Energize Your Life, Your Home & Your Planet

Why You Need Flowers in Your Home

2009-01-19T08:13:00.000-08:00

In these times, it may seem foolish to spend money on something as frivolous as fresh-cut flowers, but there are several reasons why doing so is what will lift your spirits. The next few posts will address why flowers are important, how to arrange them yourself, caring for them and more.

In 1996, I was getting paid a pittance to work as the event director at a holistic education center called Wainwright House in Rye, New York. I loved the job, however and one of the perks was that employees could take classes for free. So, I studied Feng Shui and instantly fell in love with the practice. (Since then, I have refined Feng Shui to be more applicable to the 21st century and to include eco-friendly techniques, color theory and much more—I call it Harmonious Adjustments.)

Feng Shui taught me about the importance of real, fresh-cut flowers. So, even though I made little money, I purchased two vases and bought flowers once a week for my office. The flowers brightened my office and made me feel pampered and good about myself.

After I left that job, I took a position in a non-profit organization in New York City. The highlight of my week was the commute home on Fridays, and the best part of that was stopping at my favorite kiosk in Grand Central Station for flowers. So many gorgeous flowers—my challenge was to pick only one bunch! My husband got into it and looked forward to coming home to see the week’s pick.

At this point, my home just doesn’t feel right unless there are flowers in it. With the incredible amount of joy they provide, they are essential to my life.

Flowers enhance whatever space they occupy. They engage most of our senses; we see them, smell them, touch them and can even eat some of them. The actual vibration of flowers feeds us and feeds the Spirit! The energy that emanates from flowers literally has the power to elevate your mood! We enhance our most special occasions, like weddings, with flowers, not only because they are beautiful, but, because they are a physical manifestation of divine love.

Centuries ago, the Japanese created a special branch of Feng Shui called Feng Shui Seika. Feng Shui Seika is the practice of enhancing fortunes by using flowers in a particular fashion. The art was developed by a school of Ikebana called Enshinka International Ikebana.

Practitioners of Feng Shui Seika utilize grass, wood and flowers, as well as minerals, crystals and mirrors, to balance yin and yang. Followers believe that the energy within plants and flowers can best be channeled into one’s environment when they are arranged in a particular way. Based on Ikebana, the theory is that certain arrangements make it easier to receive the energy of the plants and flowers and that these auspicious arrangements will transform the recipients’ fortunes. Talk about flower power!

Tomorrow I’ll post about the research that proves flowers make us feel better.