Category: Health

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Food for Brain Health – Kathleen Russell

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Many people who choose recovery find themselves battling depression. Often it has been an underlying problem that becomes more apparent when they stop their addictive behaviors. For many  years  our drug or behavior of choice took our attention away from our mind and body and as a result our physical, mental and emotional health suffered greatly. When dealing with depression often the diet can be overlooked. Through addiction our bodies vital resources are depleted in many ways. Studies have linked Omega 3 fatty acids, {ALA,DHA,EPA} to be part of  the reason some people with depression feel worse. Taking them in a supplement form can be hugely supportive to brain health. It is important to note that the fish oils should come from uncontaminated waters and be as pure as possible. Keep in mind, the quality of the water the fish live in determines the quality of the oil they produce.… Continue reading

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Boosting Your Immune System In Recovery.

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After years of abusing our body with drugs and alcohol and neglecting our health, our immunity will have taken a beating and we will need some extra help to protect ourselves. With the Flu season upon us there are many things we can do to protect ourselves from getting sick. We are encouraged by the FDA to have our Flu Shot and our media reinforces hand washing and antibacterial gels that are surrounding many of our supermarkets, medical facilities and hospitals. We ultimately make our own decision regarding a flu shot and millions choose to follow this suggestion. My  personal concerns are recent studies that show that,s levels of mercury in the vaccine are incredibly high. Mercury is a metal and therefore is toxic to the body. It is wise to do our own research and investigation of what we are putting in our bodies. So if this is not… Continue reading

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Nutrition for Detox and Optimum Health

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It is beneficial to plan a detox to flush out unwanted toxins in our body accumulated from our addictive behaviors. When we cleanse our system it allows us to absorb more nutrition from the foods we eat, therefore improving our health overall. For three days leading up to your detox diet, it is typically recommended to eliminate alcohol, sugar, dairy, wheat, artificial sweeteners, trans fats, and packaged, boxed, canned or fast foods. You may also want to take this time to rid your kitchen of any foods or beverages that might tempt you during your detox diet. If you’re unable to buy all organic produce, purchase a fruit and vegetable wash to help rid your produce of pesticide residues, waxes, and other undesirable chemicals. I recommend that this is a regular practice with fruits and vegetables whether you are detoxing or not. Here is a sample menu for detoxing: First… Continue reading

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Advice from our Nutrition Coach Kathleen Russell

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Creating new ideas and habits around food is the easiest way for implementing change that sticks and no longer feels like a chore. Learning that we matter and deserve good health is the first step.  When struggling is our daily reality it becomes normal and neglecting ourselves is a result of that struggle. Recovery reminds us to live one day at a time or in this case, one meal at a time. This philosophy is a way to simplify our thinking and to remain mindful of our choices. Our journey in recovery teaches us that our addictions blocked us from reaching our spirit selves. The quiet voice within was rarely heard. Learning to have a new relationship with food is not by any means easy and as with any change, requires a conscious commitment to take the necessary steps. Daily meditation is a powerful way to enhance our attitude towards… Continue reading

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A Daily Reprieve From Drinking – Not From Life

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So here I am not quite 34 years old, a mother of 2, wife, musician, Reiki Master and Alcoholic/Addict. Labels and more Labels. I have recently been diagnosed with Functional Neurological Disorder (FND) so I now also carry the label “disabled.” I came into the program of AA when I finally realised that I needed help and I had nearly ripped apart my family unit with some very stupid choices. We made a hasty move from our village to a nearby town. I was still drinking but it turned out to be one of my better decisions despite it being a pretty terrible time for us. The outside world knew nothing of my addiction. I knew nothing of my addiction – but my husband knew. I blamed depression and anxiety. Also drinking was normal, everyone I knew was a drinker. I worked as a musician playing in pubs, after gig… Continue reading