 This blog provides an ongoing dialogue about the medicinal and folk uses of herbs, tried and tested home remedies and a look at alternate types of holistic treatments. In this first issue I will provide you with information on my background and why I decided to create this vehicle (Helen’s Holistic Healing) for sharing and discussion. We all learn from one another, so I look forward to your feedback, insight and sharing as we grow in our knowledge and practice of holistic healing. Please Note: The information contained in this blog is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease, medical ailments or to replace medical advice and guidance. It is designed to provide a look at herbs, supplements and practices that promote natural healing and wellness. Please consult your physician or medical provider and follow their recommendations and/or advice.  Who is Helen? I am a self-taught herbalist and I embrace a variety of holistic practices from ancient to present times. However, as I go through this journey called life, there are situations and times when I don't always follow the knowledge I've learned about wellness and I fall victim to indulging in quick meals, chocolate chip cookies and periods of limited exercise. This blog is about personal growth towards holistic living for me and you. We will explore and discover ways to bring about healthy and holistic changes in our lives. I became a life-long student of herbology in 1975, after being diagnosed with a life-threatening blood clot. I underwent the typical treatment including venograms with contrast, hospitalization, intravenous medications including blood thinners and pain killers, aqua heating pads and related standard treatments. Although that particular blood clot was eventually contained and dissolved, I continued to have related problems with circulation, phlebitis as well as complications from each of the treatments I was given. Surprisingly, no-one seemed concerned with the underlying “cause” of the problem. I was fortunately conscious enough to recognize if the cause isn’t identified and eliminated, that the problem would continue. Thus, I sought out alternate types of treatment. As the saying goes, “When the student is ready, the teacher appears.” There was no exception in this case. I was spiritually led to Dr. John Moore, an herbalist at the former Tree of Life Bookstore in Harlem, NYC. He introduced me to the world of herbs. After a brief consultation with him, he prescribed an herb that is a powerful blood purifier and told me to become pro-active and learn how to heal myself. He urged me to begin my journey into natural healing by purchasing the book: Back to Eden, by Jethro Kloss. I was on a roll ― eager to learn, hungry for knowledge and ready to take control of my health and life. That book became the catalyst that led me to study herbs and natural healing for the last 35 years. One of the first important realities I learned early on is the limitations of American medicine. Generally speaking, American or “western” medicine is not focused on “healing.” Often when people have an illness, ailment or disease in this country, the medical practitioner either attempts to anesthetize the patient, which in effect “masks” the pain, remove the problematic organ (which causes systematic imbalances), or develop a maintenance plan. Rarely, does the dialogue talk about healing. Is there any wonder? The entire medical system in America basically makes money when you are ill. Therefore, to maintain your support of the medical industry, individuals with problems are often put on maintenance plans. This generally requires the use of medication (which provides the financial support to the pharmaceutical industry), continued visits to the Dr. (financial support for the physicians) and or testing at laboratories and hospitals (additional fees). Additionally, the ongoing ingestion of medication especially over time generally taxes other organs and causes additional ailments. Obviously, there is a place and need for many of the services and methods of the American medical industry. However, we must all become knowledgeable and vigilant about our health. Our future rests in our hands. In these conversations, I will explore various herbs, their physical characteristics, medicinal and folk uses and related trivia. I will also share interesting and noteworthy information pertaining to health. Finally, there will be suggested readings, guest bloggers and unlimited possibilities that will emerge. I look forward to sharing this blog with my readers and for us to collectively learn from one another’s experiences. As a mother of 4 adult children and 5 grandchildren, I will also include, where appropriate, anecdotes of my journey and my trials and tribulations trying to raise healthy, wholesome, conscious children in a fast-paced world. Come join me as we explore Helen’s Holistic Healing. CommentsJennifer 02/17/2010 17:26
Congratulations on creating this vehicle for teaching. I am looking forward to learning from you. Edwin 02/18/2010 20:07
Nice piece Helen.Don't stop enlighting 02/20/2010 14:39
this is great Helen, I had that book "Back to Eden" during my college days & have lived a herbalist life style ever since! what i'm doing these days is removing metals from my temple, replacing the old style tooth fillings, herbs, homeopathics, etc. so. keep me posted, & thanks for this sight, Aloha! Fantasia Owens 02/21/2010 06:32
Thank you Helen. I really need this. Dumisani Kambi-Shamba, L.Ac, Chinese Medicine practitioner & Homeopathy 02/22/2010 07:17
Hey Helen, Very insightful understanding of holistic health. Keep up the good work. I'm preparing for the spring cleanse...give me a call, maybe I can give you some ideas. Mary Robinson 02/22/2010 19:47
I'm so proud of you Helen. This is so cool. Can't wait to learn more. 02/23/2010 17:32
Place me on your mailing list. I'm interested. You've come quite the distance for yourself. Congrats. Evette 02/25/2010 13:32
Helen - VERY interesting! I can't wait for me... Pam 03/01/2010 10:54
All the best with your divine venture. Looking forward to all you have to share. Kendall 03/03/2010 05:36
May Allah bless this blog to luminate all who are interested in spiritual development. Valerie Ferguson 06/07/2010 07:08
Dear Helen: Leave a Reply | Helen TinsleyHelen Tinsley is an educator, writer and artist who is committed to health, wellness and quality education for all. ArchivesApril 2010 CategoriesAll |
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