February 25, 2011
August 11, 2010
Upon reviewing our recent poll about stress, I found the results interesting. Behind mental and emotional stress, environmental stressors are a huge concern that people feel encumber their well being.
After living in Southern California for 7 years, I understand!
The seemingly mundane tasks that everyone perform daily require much greater attention than the average person allots. For instance, getting ready for a day of errands involves a shower and primping. If the water comes from the city system, then that relaxing hot shower is in fact full of disinfectant chemicals that react with organic material in toxic ways. The hot shower is delivering harmful chemicals, like fluoride and chlorine, for the body to absorb via the skin and breath. Then, there’s the soap, shampoo and conditioning products used. Sadly, even the “natural” products are still full of unpronounceable, toxic ingredients. Following that cleansing shower, often comes the body lotion, deodorant, styling aides and makeup. All of which can become very troublesome when zero attention is applied to the list of ingredients. Go figure that a trip to the grocery store could be more harmful than expected before stepping out the door.
If you wonder how impactful these things are, I encourage you to watch this video about The Story of Cosmetics put out by the Story of Stuff Project: http://storyofstuff.org/cosmetics/ . I can say first hand that the impact of such toxic chemicals has a debilitating impact on a person’s health. I’ve watched my mom, a career cosmetologist and makeup artist, suffer health-wise for decades.
But if you are also like me, you may think, “that’s not happening to me, because I do a good job keeping my home free of disease-causing agents.”
I am writing to say, think again.
I recently tried a new hair care system, because it was paraben free, sulfate free and organic. It said it was cruelty free, and, yes, the packaging was pretty. I was sucked in.
After a month trial, I thought my new shiny mop was looking better and feeling healthier! Sadly, I was wrong. After entering the list of ingredients into a database, I discovered that on a scale of 0—10 (0 – harmless essentially edible versus 10 – toxic-related disease guaranteed) my new fabulous shampoo was a 6!
The horror!
Then, I got even more concerned that If I was duped once that I was probably wrong about other items in my home. (Concerned is a nice way to say I became obsessed!) After checking my toiletries, let’s just say I went shopping. (I rediscovered a great line too, check it out: http://www.divineresponse.com.)
Why would anyone want to knowingly increase their chances for cancer or some other form of organ failure?
Convenience is one answer. And yes, it’s not convenient to avoid the major stores to shop for choice items. But now, there’s the internet. We can get anything from anywhere with a click.
So here’s my challenge, look up your products in the database (if they aren’t listed you can search by pasting the ingredients into a form). See if you are safe or if you are a doctor’s visit waiting to happen. Yes, it takes some time, but it is well worth the confidence and security in your health.
http://www.cosmeticsdatabase.com/
Let me know what you find, too!
To less stress…and NOT being duped,
Erica
August 4, 2010
The Power of Meditation…continued
Posted by shenlife under General, Living, Meditation, Self Improvement, spiritualLeave a Comment
In my last article, I spoke of the importance of “attention” in building the Kundalini Fire (fundamental life force) for personal and spiritual development.
Remember why it is crucial?
Because energy follows attention, and wherever your attention is at any moment, your energy will be there, also. Therefore, it is vitally important to understand and practice “present-centered attention” (or PCA).
What does “present-centered attention” mean? Is it a type of prayer, a meditation, mindfulness, or some other transformational technique?
The proper application of attention or as I call it, PCA (present-centered attention) is none of the above. In fact, it has nothing to do with the use of the mind or the instruments of the mind.
You may wonder now, “So, if PCA has nothing to do with the mind, then how do you do it?”
Well, that is just it you don’t do it. It does you. You allow it to happen by giving up over and over! You could say it’s a form of surrendering. You see, to be in the present moment, you can’t be there or at least the “you” who you’ve come to identify yourself as can’t be there.
Get it?
The “you” who you’ve come to believe is you is a seeker — a seeker of experiences. The pre-sent moment is what exits prior to the seeker and its seeking. It’s pre-sent or before. So, this seeker must go. The pre-sent moment is what exists when the seeker gives up, surrenders or collapses.
I like to refer to the seeker as the Bull$hit Artist, B$A for short, because it’s insidious, constantly fooling us, like a con-artist!
The challenge is dismantling the B$A. The difficulty lies in the holographic nature of it all. The B$A is not separate from what it seeks. In fact, it is what it seeks. And since the B$A is built upon its past or past experiences, what it seeks in the imaginary future is really just projected memories. Therefore, any new experience in the imaginary future simply reinforces its existence and thus creates a perpetual feedback loop keeping it stuck in the past! It’s similar to kicking a dog and getting bitten. Then turning around and kicking the dog for biting you, only to get bitten again. Each time, the kicks and the bites get harder and reinforce the cycle or madness. This is bull$hittin.
I dive into this deeper in our upcoming book, Shen Life. In it, I point out the importance of realizing the problem of seeking and the deeper implications of seeking before beginning the practice of “present-centered attention.” The danger is an unchecked practice breeds a new and more insidious form of seeking– spiritual seeking.
Typically, meditation, prayer and other self-help techniques have an intention to get somewhere, or achieve something—to seek something in the imaginary future, like enlightenment, spirit, wealth, health, etc. In fact, the more intent the attempt to fix the B$A, make it better, or get something in the great out-there, the stronger it becomes. In PCA, nothing is sought, nothing is avoided nor resisted, not even pain, anguish, anger, loss, failure, or fear. All is welcome, good, bad, or whatever. Nothing is held onto, not even bliss, ecstasy nor delight. Attention is allowed to jump, hop, move, and do its thing. After all, it’s the chronic fixation on experiences, internal and external, good and bad, healthy and unhealthy, that is the real problem. So, the key is to allow the chronic fixation to dislodge and run its course. All states are recognized as temporal, nothing to be loved or feared, just allowed to pass. Until, even attention itself relaxes. Here (a non-local “here”), Shen reveals itself as you.
Here’s an exercise you can try.
Sit and watch how attention jumps from thoughts, to emotions, to sensations, to external phenomena, and so on. Just watch. Then, as it begins to slow down, watch “who” is doing the watching. And so on and so on and so on.
This can be exhausting!
Finally, after much watching, an “irritable discontent” ought to arise. Now you are getting somewhere. Simply, fall, sink, relax, let go, surrender, melt, or whatever into the irritable discontent, over and over and over and over until Shen reveals itself as You.
Shen can be likened to the Supreme Unknown, the Absolute, Undifferentiated Awareness, the Great Beyond, Ultimate Reality, or Absolute Freedom. It is here, Shen, which is everywhere and nowhere at the same time, where what is referred to as healing, transformation, and conscious evolution takes place.
Just to be clear, conscious evolution or healing doesn’t happen in linear time as we think of it either. It’s more like a falling away of conditioned time that reveals what has always been there unchanged by time, the pre-sent moment, Shen.
Think of it like this… you are in a dark room, or at least you think it is dark. The truth is it is dark, because you have a bag on your head. It takes you a while to figure it out, since that bag has been on your head for years and you’ve become used to it. You grown so accustom to it that you think it is part of your being, who you are; hence the Bull$hit Artist. When you finally get it off, you realized that there was always light in the room, only the bag kept you in the dark. Now, during your struggle to figure it out, time passed. This is what is commonly referred to as the healing process, the removal of the bag, letting go of your personal story, your memories—bull$hittin’. However, in the big scheme of things, neither the bag (the B$A) nor your process (bull$hittin) did anything to change the absolute fact that the room was full of Light. The B$A and its B$ just obstructed your awareness of what was already present or pre-sent.
Once you understand seeking is the problem and it’s the B$A’s modus operandi, that is moving and jumping around like a cat on a hot tin roof seeking one experience after another, like a junkie looking for the next fix, then you’ll be ready to let it go; thereby, letting go of the B$A. Of course, this usually has to be realized over and over. Not until “frustrated incorporated” becomes your general experience will the “sense of urgency” be great enough to finish the job.
Remember, PCA is just a tool, and Shen Life is just a map, not the destination or territory. So, don’t fixate on these items, just discard them once the collapsing is done.
There you have it…now have fun!
~Stephen
July 4, 2010
Let’s Talk about SEX, baby…
Posted by shenlife under General, Health Related, Lifestyle, Living, Self Improvement, sex, spiritual[2] Comments
There is so much confusion and misinformation regarding sex within the human potential and spiritual growth movement. Is it bad? Is it good? Is it the key to development and spiritual growth? The questions keep going.
So, what is the real truth about sex and it’s relation to human development and spiritual growth other than the obvious – pleasure and procreation?
First, let’s define what I am referring to when using the term sex. I prefer– copulate. To copulate, means to engage in sexual intercourse, derived from the Latin word, copulare, which means, to join together. So, there it is. The true meaning of sexual relations is to join together.
What is being joined together? Is it just man and wife, the male and female gender or any two adult human beings?
Suppose I should put out a disclaimer here: I am not making any value judgments regarding sexuality. This article is purely to provide another perspective on copulating besides the common one.
Allow me to explain.
As I have mentioned before, while incarcerated almost two decades ago, I experienced a Kundalini Awakening. (I’ll get into that further below.) In East Indian Spirituality, a Kundalini Awakening refers to an activation of the dormant energy that lies coiled at the base of the spine. When awakened, the energy travels upward in a serpentine fashion along the spinal column through several pathways until finally reaching the top of the crown. This process liberates an individual’s awareness to allow him/her to experience a greater connection to Self, others and the rest of the world. Yes, many other cool changes and exciting healings happen, too.
Typically though, an Awakening doesn’t transpire in one quick explosion. Rather a series of ongoing bio-energetic transformations strung together that can last for many years is the common occurrence. It depends on each person’s lifestyle choices.
Yes, I said choices.
The Kundalini process is either expedited or impeded by lifestyle behaviors. The primary lifestyle habit that will either speed up the process or slow it down relates to sexual behavior. The energy referred to as the coiled serpent is none other than the sexual energy or Kundalini. As we, humans, move into adulthood, more and more of this vital energy is spent in the game of life, particularly in sexual relations (either personally or with a partner). As a result, the Kundalini Energy Reservoir is very deficient in most people. Weak reserves will make any Kundalini Experience almost impossible, never mind a full-blown Kundalini Awakening.
This correlation reflects the reasoning behind why some monks, priests, and other religious zealots guard against sexual relations all together. Sadly though, most of these folks don’t possess the true understanding of the relationship between the sexual energy and their spiritual practice. Many times the true knowledge is replaced with fallacies like, “sex is bad” or “unholy behavior except in marriage.” This outlook on sex or copulating creates a host of health problems and relational issues. (But, that is another topic for another time.)
In the right context, sex and the sex energy can be a huge asset to our potential, both in health and growth. Mindful copulating will encourage and build the vital force that leads to a Kundalini Experience, and even possibly a full-blown Kundalini Awakening. As you may know, there are a great many sexual practices that foster the growth of the Kundalini Energy. Some of them are Sexual Qi Kung, Tantric Practices, and Spiritual Coupling. Careful though, one must guard against sexual addiction or abdicating personal responsibility onto the partner for spiritual development. Each of these practices help (and I’ve personally gained from them), however, I found a spiritual aspirant will develop faster once he/she can let these practices go and learn “true coupling” within.
The true coupling I am referring to is the joining of the male and female energies within ourselves.
How do you do this?
Well, it’s rather simple, but it is not easy!
Let’s go back to my experience. When I first arrived in prison, I was overwhelmed by where my life ended up and who I’d become – a drug and alcohol addicted, a violent-tempered criminal, a first-class mess. From rock bottom, I reconciled to find out why I’d made such poor choices, and to discover how to never to make them again.
Unknowingly, I began a contemplative practice.
Up to that point, my life experience was focused outward. Then, I took a 180-degree turn inward. There is the key. My “attention” was staying home so to speak. I minimized the loss of any vital power of the Kundalini Force (sexual energy), and that reservoir began to build, strengthen and compound.
Along with the contemplation practice, my lifestyle was more balanced. I went to bed at the same time and got up at the same time. I ate three balanced meals at the same time. I exercised each day by walking, stretching, and light strength training, plus I breathed much deeper while doing so. I no longer watched television nor engaged in fruitless conversation. And most importantly, I did not participate in any sexual activity.
Well, unknown to me, the combination of that radical lifestyle change and abstinence built up a brew of powerful energy. After about 9 months of this practice, a huge explosion happened within me…at least, that’s how it felt. A powerful surge of energy shot up from my pelvic floor all the way up to my skull and beyond. Following, a complementary force began from somewhere above my head and moved downward along the same path. My general experience was of pure exhilaration and ecstasy.
Two other experiences occurred that are worth noting. A great sense of connection to everything or whole oneness washed me, like a coupling or joining together of all my parts. Plus, time seemed to slow down to near slow-motion. Of course, all of these cool experiences didn’t last very long. After the big bang, I was left with a surging force that, for much of the time, was torturous physically, emotionally, and mentally. From time to time, I would have the more enjoyable experiences, but for many years afterward, there was mainly the excruciating surging force. Until one day, I noticed my general experience had shifted into an expansive feeling of delight accompanied with a sense of wholeness or unity – true spiritual coupling.
In one word, the key to all of this is attention.
Energy follows attention, and if attention is focused on material life from moment-to-moment, energy follows it. The more I relaxed attention inwardly, the stronger the Kundalini grew. Therefore, it is imperative to gradually bring attention back home into the body, so that the Kundalini can build and eventually lead to total liberation.
Hopefully, you can see how important the sexual energy is in reaching your full potential – both spiritually and humanly. Without it, we won’t get very far.
In my next article I’ll outline the basic practice of attention, which is taken from the section, The Work, in my upcoming book, Shen Life, Reach For It, The Next Step In Human Potential.
Until then, keep it in your pants! 
June 13, 2010
The Fountain of Youth, A Review
Posted by shenlife under General, Health Related, Informational, Lifestyle, LivingLeave a Comment
By: Erica Eddleman Rogers
Recently, I stumbled onto a book that shared some simple information to improve health and stretch the common concept of aging. I truly enjoyed the emphasis of the book—our well being and vitality depends on the integrated, balanced relationship of our unseen bio-energy (chi, ki, prana or lifeforce). When all the centers of bio-energy are active and harmonious, then we experience the magic of life and even the fountain of youth. 
Written by Peter Kelder, Ancient Secret of the Fountain of Youth shares the personal story of his relationship with Col. Bradford. The colonel becomes the ultimate before-and-after testimony to the power of life force on our health. Peter met the colonel in a random encounter when Mr. Bradford was in his late sixties. Then, the colonel sets off on a trip. In the midst of the colonel’s travels, he chose to trek to the source of a myth. He heard that the fountain of youth could be found in a village in the Himalayas. Without spoiling the story line too much, I’ll say that he discovered healing practices that reversed aging, not an actual water source. Peter goes on to describe what he learned when the colonel returned. It is inspiring!
In case you don’t plan on reading the book, I’m going to cut to the chase. The colonel discovered a village where no one appeared old. The secret lied in the energy-exercises everyone did that restored youth to old bodies. These rites are very effective. The power accessed is not in the muscular development of the exercises so much as the effect of stimulating the bio-energy centers. When the body’s major energy centers are turned “on” and in balance with one another, it is like turning on all of the power stations in a city, so there’s ample electricity flowing throughout.
Let me get to it. There were 5 rites to practice daily. With consistency, they will reverse the symptoms of aging. If you’ve ever practiced yoga, or the like, then the moves will be familiar. The number of repetitions varies per person. For beginners or challenged individuals, start with a cycle of 3, then 5, then 7, and so on working up in intervals of 2 week-by-week, until reaching 21 repetitions total. Even if you know that the movements are doable, start slow then work up. (The spinning rite will indicate where best to start.)
Here are the rites:
- Spinning—like a top, the first move is to twirl around as a child would. Arms extend to sides in a T, feet flat, spot a wall like a dancer, spin and breathe. Rotate toward the right only (clockwise). In the beginning, spin to the point of dizziness and stop; note how many turns it took until dizziness sets in, say 7, then that is your count to use in the other rites.
- Straight leg raises—for the core, lie on the floor flat (on the back facing up). Start with the legs together on the ground and the hands under the hips for support. Use the breath exhaling to lift the legs and head simultaneously. The chin will tuck to the throat and the legs should stop once vertical at a 90 degree angle from the floor. Then, with the breath, lower down to return flat. If the movement strains the back, do it with bent legs and gradually work the legs toward straight. Also, leaving the head down the whole time is an easier option. Continue with the breath to do as many as your count indicates, like 7 from the example in rite #1.
- Camels—to be done immediately after the leg raises, start with the body upright kneeling. Knees hip width apart, tops of the feet on the floor and hands on the hips. From this neutral position, exhale forward into a rounded position, like trying to touch the forehead to the navel. Don’t bend at the hips, just the torso. Then, inhale back to neutral. Next, exhale arching back with the arms supporting the low back or the back of the thighs depending on ability. Arch as far as the spine can go without any pinching or pain sensations. Inhale back to neutral and repeat.
- Swinging table top—from a seated position, plant the hands alongside of the hips, and extend the legs straight out, shoulder-width apart. Start by pressing into the hands and bending the legs to get the feet on the floor. Follow by swinging the weight toward the feet, lifting the hips off the floor and moving the torso towards a horizontal position, flat like a table. The head can stay tucked, chin to the chest, or if comfortable looking backward. Once lifted as high as possible, breathe and pause. Then, return. Swing down to the seated position. Next, round the upper body forward, forehead toward the navel while exhaling. Finally, inhale to return up to neutral. Repeat.
- The Dogs—start in Downward Facing Dog. (To find your down dog, kneel on all fours—hands lined up and the shoulders and knees under the hips. Then stub your toes to shift the weight back and lift the hips up in the air, ultimately looking like an inverted V.) Ideally the limbs are straight, but bending the knees helps ease the intensity. With the breath, float forward to a plank (push up position) and ease further into Upward Facing Dog, where the body arches open. The hips sink down, and the shoulders and head lift up, while pressing into the hands and feet. Then, return back to down dog by exhaling and squeezing the navel to the spine. Of course this can be challenging, so bend the knees in either Dog to ease the position. Repeat.
There was in fact a sixth rite explained in the book. However, I think that it is best to leave it to the author to share. Or better yet, I’ll pass that off to Stephen to write about in the next installment. I will give you a hint: it requires a lifestyle commitment and it harnesses the most potent bodily force we all have to work with in life.
All in all, the book was a very easy read. And even though the author didn’t touch on it, I’d add that a whole lifestyle would support the power of the rites—balanced breathing, eating, drinking, sleeping, eliminating, and copulating along with moving. Additionally, I recommend getting a boost from nature in my favorite adaptogenic formula, ShenTrition.
There you have it. Now, make time to access your own fountain of youth. It is pretty easy. After all, who wouldn’t mind the wisdom gained from living long, as long as we don’t have to suffer helplessly old.
Live long and prosper!
May 5, 2010
Introducing a New and Improved ShenTrition Formula!
Posted by shenlife under GeneralLeave a Comment
We reformulated the ShenTrition formula, which enables us to discontinue the rest of our product line. Of course, if anyone lives a careless lifestyle there is no all-in-one nutritional product that would work for them. However, you are likely utilizing the Shen Life Teaching Model, a truly holistic lifestyle, so ShenTrition is the perfect supplement for you! It serves as a great snack and a healthy energy boost. ShenTrition is micronutrient-dense, calorie-low nourishment! It is mind- calming, stress-relieving, and it serves as a daily detoxing formula.
There you have it – ShenTrition, Shen Tonic, Shen Cleanse, Shen Agua, and Shen REM all in one! Just take a look at the ingredients list and what they do and decide for yourself. There are 40 power-packed ingredients!!!
Drum roll please…here they are:
Holy Basil
One of the most powerful adaptogens is Holy Basil. Its origin is India, and has been known for its incredible medicinal value for thousands of years. It’s the chief herb of Ayurveda medicine and is heralded for its ability to reduce stress and restore homeostasis. It’s the all-in-one herb in Ayurveda and is used for all kinds of ailments including lifting one’s consciousness in one’s spiritual pursuits.
Lycium Fruit
Lychii fruit is also known as Goji berry or Wolfberry. It is a superior tonic herb, longevity herb and another great adaptogen. It is a powerful immune stimulator and immune modulator. Lychii’s been used for thousands of years to strengthen sexual vigor, fertility, and it is wonderful for the skin. It has strong endurance qualities and is a favorite among martial artists and athletes. It is said that Lycium will brighten the eyes, promote happiness, and strengthen vitality! In essence, it restores and builds the hormones that keep us vital and youthful!
Polygonum Multiflorum / Fo Ti
Also called Fo Ti or He Shou Wu, this herb has incredible adaptive and restorative affects. It is often used to bring about mental clarity and to invigorate the brain. However, its real claim to fame is its ability to restore youth to a tired, old body! In China, it is said to help return an aged person to youthfulness. One of the reasons for this is it is a blood tonic. It is believed to increase sperm quality and quantity in men and sexual vitality in women. Therefore, it is a powerful sexual tonic. For this reason, the hair, nails and skin have been shown to return to their youthful state from regular use of this herb. Polygonum Multiflorum has been shown to be a mild cleanser of the blood, too. It is a fundamental herb for spiritualists who desire to strengthen the inner fires of the procreative force.
American Ginseng
By far the most popular adaptogen, Ginseng (pronounced “gin-sing”) is considered the most lucrative legal crop in the world. Ginseng has been used for thousands of years to prevent an extraordinary amount of problems, from premature aging, to low libido, low energy and cancer. It has been shown to boost energy, induce mental alertness and increase endurance. It can, to a certain extent, be supported with scientific research regarding its anti-carcinogenic and antioxidant properties. American Ginseng is the best variety of the ginsengs because of its neutral healing properties. For this reason, American Ginseng is very popular in China. In fact, the Chinese buy most of the American Ginseng produced and find it far superior to their Ginseng. People who tend to run hot–that is, have faster metabolisms and more energy–do well on American Ginseng. They gain the adaptogenic benefits without the overheating that comes from Asian Ginseng. It thus provides energy, adaptability and heightened alertness. It is especially appreciated for its endurance-increasing capacity and heightened awareness in meditators.
Astragalus Root
Astragalus has been considered one of the most potent immune tonics by ancient physicians and modern researchers alike. For over 2,000 years, it has been used for lifting the mood, strengthening muscles, increasing metabolism, reducing stress, and strengthening the body as a whole. It has been shown by researchers to be a superior immune tonic. In Chinese Medicine, it is said to strengthen the Protective Qi, which circulates under the skin and in the myofascial tissue and thus creates “an armor” against external pathogens. This makes it a great adaptogen. Astragalus strengthens the body’s adaptive energy. It also strengthens the upward flow of life-force that strengthens posture, organ position, and strengthens the connective tissue. Astragalus induces a mild diuretic action, which helps the skin to release toxins.
Atractylodes
Atractylodes is a powerful energy tonic and adaptogen. It is also well-known for balancing the digestive system. It is widely used by athletes and those interested in weight loss, because of its mild diuretic action, its ability to increase metabolism and vitality, plus it removes toxins. Atractylodes is utilized by athletes, martial artists and spiritualists to increase energy, remove toxins, and increase powers of concentration.
Licorice Root
Licorice root is one of the most commonly used adaptogens, and it has been used for thousands of years to rid the body of unwanted toxins. It is known to rid the body of over 1200 toxins! Licorice increases energy and digestive power. Also, it strengthens muscles, balances blood sugar, and strengthens the adrenal glands. One of its most common uses in Chinese Medicine is as a harmonizer of herbal formulations. Licorice enhances the synergistic relationship in multi-herbal formulas. It has been shown to be a natural mood modifier and muscle relaxant, too. It helps the body deal with stress. When speaking of adaptogens and stress, and their ability to relieve stress, licorice must be at the top of the list. However, it is important to note that according to Western physicians, Licorice is unwise for patients on blood-pressure medications or for individuals who are at risk of high blood-pressure.
Rhodiola
Rhodiola grows in one of the harshest environments on the globe (Tibet). Because of this Rhodiola evolved to develop powerful phyto-nutrients that enable it to survive and thrive! The story goes that those who regularly took Rhodiola lived to see 100 years. It is known as a chief longevity herb and a powerful immune stimulator. Science has now proven this herb to have powerful longevity attributes, and it helps control stressful situations that lead to chronic diseases. Rhodiola also has been observed by researchers to have a potent detoxing affect on the body’s systems. Tibetan monks have used this herb for centuries to strengthen their concentration, physical endurance and spiritual power. It’s been shown to improve oxygen absorption, memory and mental clarity. It’s used as a mood lifter and even believed to be more powerful than St. John’s Wort.
Ashwagandha Root
Ancient physicians have used ashwagandha for everything from hiccups to cancer. No doubt it has impressive adaptogenic properties. This powerful herb is one of the best adaptogenic herbs for restoring homeostasis and relieving stress! Also, it has been shown to be a powerful immune tonic as well.
Dang Shen
Dang Shen is another powerful adaptogen. It has been used as an energy tonic, blood enhancer, immune stimulator and immune modulator, and a digestive tonic. It has been shown to restore homeostasis and relieve stress.
Longan Fruit
Longan fruit has been used for centuries to enhance physical beauty. It is believed to be great for the skin, which shows it has mild blood cleansing effects along with being a great blood tonic. It’s been shown to nurture the heart and brighten the eyes, which would make sense since opening the heart’s emotional energy would add to one’s beauty. Again, this would give credence to the fact that is has been widely used by both men and women as a sexual tonic.
Reishi Mushroom
Reishi is one of the most powerful, potent adaptogenic herbs known to man. It is an immune booster, energy tonic, stress reliever, mood regulator and mild detoxifier. Widely used among meditation practitioners for calming the mind and inducing expanded states of consciousness. It is the most revered herb in Asia for longevity, spiritual growth, mental concentration, and vitality. To many in the East, it is known as the “elixir of immortality.”
Shiitake Mushroom
Shiitake mushroom, one of the most highly prized botanicals of Chinese and Japanese Herbalism, is used to improve energy, blood circulation, and strengthen the body as a whole. It is a great energy tonic as well as having a mild detoxifying effect on the cells and tissues of the body. Another powerful adaptogenic mushroom, it is a superior immunomodulator and immunostimulator. It balances the body’s systems and lowers stress and anxiety. Shiitake’s calming effects allow one to reach higher levels of awareness.
Maitake Mushroom
Maitake mushroom, like all adaptogens, has a dual-directive activity on the body’s systems. Meaning, whether the body or its systems are deficient or excessive, Maitake helps to bring them back to homeostasis. Maitake’s greatest benefit is on the immune system. Similar to Reishi mushroom, it has a mild calming effect as well as a detoxifier. Additionally, it is a strong energy tonic and anti-aging food!
Shilajit
Shilajit is an incredible adaptogen used in Ayurveda medicine. In Sanskrit texts, they describe it as the “destroyer of weakness.” Its rediscovery was made by Himalayan villagers who observed monkeys chewing the semi-soft substance oozing from between the layers of rocks giving them incredible strength, vitality, wisdom and longevity. Later research studies showed that the substance is a combination of organic plant matter combined with the decomposing rocks, containing over 85 minerals in ionic form along with fulvic and humic acids. Shilajit enhances overall strength and stamina, and relieves stress and anxiety. It is a powerful rejuvenator and cleanser, too.
Schizandra Berry
Schizandra is an adaptogen that does just about everything. It is known as an herb that enhances physical as well as spiritual beauty. It’s a powerful blood tonic, as well as a blood cleanser, which is why it is said to make the skin soft, moist, and glowing. And, it protects the skin from the harsh effects of the wind and sun. It also strengthens sexual energy and functions in both men and women, and is an incredible endurance tonic for athletes—the two benefits often coincide. Though Schizandra sharpens the mind, improves concentration and enhances memory, it also has mild calming effects. In other studies Schizandra has been shown to improve vision and hearing.
Jujube
Jujube works as a great harmonizer with other adaptogenic herbs! It’s one of the best all-around energy and nutrient tonics known. Also, it acts as a blood cleanser, a mild laxative, a mild relaxant, and restores proper energy flow to the acupuncture meridians. Traditionally, Jujube has been used to lengthen lifespan and restore energy reserves.
Acerola Cherry
Acerola Cherry is a fruit that is a powerful healer! It strengthens the immune system, because it is very rich in antioxidants, namely vitamin C. In fact, it is one of the most concentrated forms of Vitamin C in nature. In fact, there have been over 150 constituents discovered in Acerola Cherry, and many of these have been identified as rich in antioxidants, carotenoids, vitamins, phyto-nutrients, and minerals that promote overall health and well-being. Acerola Cherry expedites wound healing, protects against cancers, and helps as a preventative against heart disease. Also, it’s a great energy and endurance enhancer.
Acai Berry
The Acai Berry is one of the most nutritious fruits in the world. Along with its wonderful fruity and cocoa taste, it is chock-full of anti-oxidants, amino acids and essential fatty acids! This berry is a super stress-relieving fruit, and incredible energy-boosting food! Perhaps this berry is most known for its ability to provide greater endurance to athletes and aide in appetite control for those trying to manage their weight.
Organic Hemp Seed Protein
Hemp seed protein is one of the few plant proteins that is a complete protein source – meaning all of the essential amino acids are present and in the right synergistic balance. Hemp seed protein is one of the most easily digestible protein sources. It’s loaded with essential fatty acids and it has a perfect balance (3 to 1 ratio) of omega 6s and 3s. Hemp seed is loaded with plant enzymes. Enzymes are the body’s little workers. They have thousands of functions. Hemp seed is great for the immune system, too. Good quality hemp seed protein is full of friendly bacteria. Friendly bacteria (flora) help to break down proteins properly in the intestines so that the body can get the right amount of amino acids in its tissues. Makes the whole body strong! Especially, the immune system! Another great thing about hemp is that there is no other protein source that contains such a high chlorophyll count. Chlorophyll is a great detoxifier along with bringing the body to a more alkaline state. Chlorophyll alkalizes the tissues, organs and blood, and energizes the cells. Lastly, Hemp seed is great at tissue repair and stimulating healthy hormone production.
Organic Spirulina
Spirulina is a blue-green algae and is being touted by many as the “food of the future” because it is an incredible nutrient-dense food source, more than any other algae. In fact, it is a more complete protein source (all of its amino acids are in perfect balance) than beef, which is only 22% protein. Spirulina is 65-71% protein. It provides dense concentrations of other micro-nutrients that are in an easily-assimilated form such enzymes, trace minerals, and amino acids. Plus, it is extremely high in chlorophyll, a powerful, natural and effective system detoxifier, which makes spirulina extremely alkalizing, too!
Organic Purple Dulse Weed
Purple Dulse Weed is the most mineral-rich plant known to grow in the ocean. In fact, every known mineral (trace and macro) exists in Purple Dulse Weed. This mineral-rich sea vegetable is one of the easiest vegetables to assimilate and digest. It effectively oxygenates the cells along with detoxifying and alkalizing the blood and other tissues.
Organic Kale
Kale is another mineral-rich and vitamin-rich plant. The chlorophyll-rich leaves are a great source of fiber along with being a great alkalizing and detoxifying vegetable. It’s loaded with vitamins A and C, folic acid, calcium, and other phyto-nutrients. Kale is a great energy and immune booster, too!
Organic Collards
Collards are a nutrition powerhouse. Very similar to Kale, they are loaded with Calcium, fiber, vitamin C, minerals, and phyto-nutrients. They are a great detoxifying plant, because of the ability of the fiber to scour the bowel along with the alkaline, chlorophyll-rich content in the leaves. Like Kale and other green leafy vegetables, collards help in weight loss, because they are high in fiber and nutrients, but low in calories.
Organic Broccoli
Broccoli is a powerful immune booster on account of its antioxidant activity. Broccoli increases the levels of glutathione in the body, which is the body most powerful antioxidant. It stimulates enzyme activity that is imperative for proper cell function, along with having powerful detoxifying effects.
Organic Spinach
Spinach is one of the best natural blood tonics! Spinach is concentrated nutrition. It regenerates red blood cells, oxygenates the cells and tissues of the body, and is loaded with blood-building nutrients such as iron, vitamins A, C, E, K, and Folic acid. Additionally, it’s loaded with calcium and potassium! Spinach is also a powerful detoxifier because it is rich in chlorophyll!
Organic Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are loaded with sulforaphanes, which stimulate enzyme activity. Enzymes are necessary for assimilating nutrients along with detoxifying the cells. Additionally, brussels sprouts are rich in chlorophyll — another great way to detoxify the blood and other tissues!
Organic Wheat Grass
Wheat grass is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and other phyto-nutrients. Another great detoxifier since it is chlorophyll-rich. Lastly, wheat grass is a natural energy and immune-booster. Wheat grass is harvested before gluten is formed, which makes it gluten-free!
Organic Barley Grass
Incredible amounts of minerals and vitamins and other phyto-nutrients are found in young barley grass! Barley grass is a natural immune booster because it is loaded with several powerful antioxidants. Barley grass is another chlorophyll-rich plant, which makes it a powerful alkalizing and detoxing agent.
Organic Alfalfa Grass – Alfalfa grass is known as one of the most nutritious foods on the planet! Alfalfa is loaded with enzymes, fiber, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and other phyto-nutrients, which make it an energy powerhouse and super immune-booster. Because of its deep roots (they can reach a depth of 250 feet), alfalfa can absorb an incredible amount of minerals that are absolutely necessary for optimum bodily function. Again, like the other grasses it is rich in chlorophyll, which makes it a great detoxifier and alkalizer!
Organic Flax Seed
Considered by many as a miracle food, flax seed is rich in alpha-linolenic acid (a plant source of omega-3 fatty acid very similar to fish fatty acids). Some studies show that flax seed lowers bad cholesterol levels, lowers blood triglycerides, and lowers blood pressure. Flax seed is rich in lignans. Lignans are a type of phyto-nutrient (antioxidant) that has been shown to have strong disease-fighting abilities!
Organic Beet Roots
Like spinach, beet root is a superb blood tonic. It oxygenates the blood and other cells, which gives an energy boost along with increasing the removal of toxins. Because of their nutrient-dense qualities, beet roots are considered a superfood!
Organic Radish
Radish is a great source of vitamin C and is rich in many trace minerals. It is known to have many antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities, which make it a super-boosting immune food. Radish acts as a great harmonizer in herbal formulas because of its “moving” qualities when using tonic herbs.
Organic Strawberry, Organic Cherry, Organic Raspberry, Organic Blue berry, and Organic Pineapple
Along with stevia (see below), these organic powdered concentrates add a deliciously low-calorie sweetness to the taste of the ShenTrition formula. Plus, they provide natural antioxidants!
Organic Stevia
Stevia, known as the “sweet leaf,” is about 200 times sweeter than sugar and is very low on the glycemic index! It’s been used as a natural, low-calorie sweetener in parts of South America for hundreds of years. Unlike other sweeteners, which are considered “empty calories”, stevia is loaded with proteins, minerals and other health-boosting phyto-nutrients! Stevia is truly a healthy substitute for sugar.
Well, if you are like me, then you’ve counted the ingredients twice and found 39 instead of 40. We promised you 40, not 39, and that’s just what we are giving you. The 40th ingredient and the most important is… Love! ShenTrition has been a labor of love for Erica and I. We hope you love the new and improved formula just as much as we do!
Enjoy,
Stephen
We reformulated the ShenTrition formula, which enables us to discontinue the rest of our product line. Of course, if anyone lives a careless lifestyle there is no all-in-one nutritional product that would work for them. However, you are likely utilizing the Shen Life Teaching Model, a truly holistic lifestyle, so ShenTrition is the perfect supplement for you! It serves as a great snack and a healthy energy boost. ShenTrition is micronutrient-dense, calorie-low nourishment! It is mind- calming, stress-relieving, and it serves as a daily detoxing formula.
There you have it – ShenTrition, Shen Tonic, Shen Cleanse, Shen Agua, and Shen REM all in one! Just take a look at the ingredients list and what they do and decide for yourself. There are 40 power-packed ingredients!!!
Drum roll please…here they are:
Holy Basil
One of the most powerful adaptogens is Holy Basil. Its origin is India, and has been known for its incredible medicinal value for thousands of years. It’s the chief herb of Ayurveda medicine and is heralded for its ability to reduce stress and restore homeostasis. It’s the all-in-one herb in Ayurveda and is used for all kinds of ailments including lifting one’s consciousness in one’s spiritual pursuits.
Lycium Fruit
Lychii fruit is also known as Goji berry or Wolfberry. It is a superior tonic herb, longevity herb and another great adaptogen. It is a powerful immune stimulator and immune modulator. Lychii’s been used for thousands of years to strengthen sexual vigor, fertility, and it is wonderful for the skin. It has strong endurance qualities and is a favorite among martial artists and athletes. It is said that Lycium will brighten the eyes, promote happiness, and strengthen vitality! In essence, it restores and builds the hormones that keep us vital and youthful!
Polygonum Multiflorum / Fo Ti
Also called Fo Ti or He Shou Wu, this herb has incredible adaptive and restorative affects. It is often used to bring about mental clarity and to invigorate the brain. However, its real claim to fame is its ability to restore youth to a tired, old body! In China, it is said to help return an aged person to youthfulness. One of the reasons for this is it is a blood tonic. It is believed to increase sperm quality and quantity in men and sexual vitality in women. Therefore, it is a powerful sexual tonic. For this reason, the hair, nails and skin have been shown to return to their youthful state from regular use of this herb. Polygonum Multiflorum has been shown to be a mild cleanser of the blood, too. It is a fundamental herb for spiritualists who desire to strengthen the inner fires of the procreative force.
American Ginseng
By far the most popular adaptogen, Ginseng (pronounced “gin-sing”) is considered the most lucrative legal crop in the world. Ginseng has been used for thousands of years to prevent an extraordinary amount of problems, from premature aging, to low libido, low energy and cancer. It has been shown to boost energy, induce mental alertness and increase endurance. It can, to a certain extent, be supported with scientific research regarding its anti-carcinogenic and antioxidant properties. American Ginseng is the best variety of the ginsengs because of its neutral healing properties. For this reason, American Ginseng is very popular in China. In fact, the Chinese buy most of the American Ginseng produced and find it far superior to their Ginseng. People who tend to run hot–that is, have faster metabolisms and more energy–do well on American Ginseng. They gain the adaptogenic benefits without the overheating that comes from Asian Ginseng. It thus provides energy, adaptability and heightened alertness. It is especially appreciated for its endurance-increasing capacity and heightened awareness in meditators.
Astragalus Root
Astragalus has been considered one of the most potent immune tonics by ancient physicians and modern researchers alike. For over 2,000 years, it has been used for lifting the mood, strengthening muscles, increasing metabolism, reducing stress, and strengthening the body as a whole. It has been shown by researchers to be a superior immune tonic. In Chinese Medicine, it is said to strengthen the Protective Qi, which circulates under the skin and in the myofascial tissue and thus creates “an armor” against external pathogens. This makes it a great adaptogen. Astragalus strengthens the body’s adaptive energy. It also strengthens the upward flow of life-force that strengthens posture, organ position, and strengthens the connective tissue. Astragalus induces a mild diuretic action, which helps the skin to release toxins.
Atractylodes
Atractylodes is a powerful energy tonic and adaptogen. It is also well-known for balancing the digestive system. It is widely used by athletes and those interested in weight loss, because of its mild diuretic action, its ability to increase metabolism and vitality, plus it removes toxins. Atractylodes is utilized by athletes, martial artists and spiritualists to increase energy, remove toxins, and increase powers of concentration.
Licorice
Licorice root is one of the most commonly used adaptogens, and it has been used for thousands of years to rid the body of unwanted toxins. It is known to rid the body of over 1200 toxins! Licorice increases energy and digestive power. Also, it strengthens muscles, balances blood sugar, and strengthens the adrenal glands. One of its most common uses in Chinese Medicine is as a harmonizer of herbal formulations. Licorice enhances the synergistic relationship in multi-herbal formulas. It has been shown to be a natural mood modifier and muscle relaxant, too. It helps the body deal with stress. When speaking of adaptogens and stress, and their ability to relieve stress, licorice must be at the top of the list. However, it is important to note that according to Western physicians, Licorice is unwise for patients on blood-pressure medications or for individuals who are at risk of high blood-pressure.
Rhodiola
Rhodiola grows in one of the harshest environments on the globe (Tibet). Because of this Rhodiola evolved to develop powerful phyto-nutrients that enable it to survive and thrive! The story goes that those who regularly took Rhodiola lived to see 100 years. It is known as a chief longevity herb and a powerful immune stimulator. Science has now proven this herb to have powerful longevity attributes, and it helps control stressful situations that lead to chronic diseases. Rhodiola also has been observed by researchers to have a potent detoxing affect on the body’s systems. Tibetan monks have used this herb for centuries to strengthen their concentration, physical endurance and spiritual power. It’s been shown to improve oxygen absorption, memory and mental clarity. It’s used as a mood lifter and even believed to be more powerful than St. John’s Wort.
Ashwagandha Root
Ancient physicians have used ashwagandha for everything from hiccups to cancer. No doubt it has impressive adaptogenic properties. This powerful herb is one of the best adaptogenic herbs for restoring homeostasis and relieving stress! Also, it has been shown to be a powerful immune tonic as well.
Dang Shen
Dang Shen is another powerful adaptogen. It has been used as an energy tonic, blood enhancer, immune stimulator and immune modulator, and a digestive tonic. It has been shown to restore homeostasis and relieve stress.
Longan fruit
Longan fruit has been used for centuries to enhance physical beauty. It is believed to be great for the skin, which shows it has mild blood cleansing effects along with being a great blood tonic. It’s been shown to nurture the heart and brighten the eyes, which would make sense since opening the heart’s emotional energy would add to one’s beauty. Again, this would give credence to the fact that is has been widely used by both men and women as a sexual tonic.
Reishi Mushroom
Reishi is one of the most powerful, potent adaptogenic herbs known to man. It is an immune booster, energy tonic, stress reliever, mood regulator and mild detoxifier. Widely used among meditation practitioners for calming the mind and inducing expanded states of consciousness. It is the most revered herb in Asia for longevity, spiritual growth, mental concentration, and vitality. To many in the East, it is known as the “elixir of immortality.”
Shiitake mushroom
Shiitake mushroom, one of the most highly prized botanicals of Chinese and Japanese Herbalism, is used to improve energy, blood circulation, and strengthen the body as a whole. It is a great energy tonic as well as having a mild detoxifying effect on the cells and tissues of the body. Another powerful adaptogenic mushroom, it is a superior immunomodulator and immunostimulator. It balances the body’s systems and lowers stress and anxiety. Shiitake’s calming effects allow one to reach higher levels of awareness.
Maitake Mushroom
Maitake mushroom, like all adaptogens, has a dual-directive activity on the body’s systems. Meaning, whether the body or its systems are deficient or excessive, Maitake helps to bring them back to homeostasis. Maitake’s greatest benefit is on the immune system. Similar to Reishi mushroom, it has a mild calming effect as well as a detoxifier. Additionally, it is a strong energy tonic and anti-aging food!
Shilajit
Shilajit is an incredible adaptogen used in Ayurveda medicine. In Sanskrit texts, they describe it as the “destroyer of weakness.” Its rediscovery was made by Himalayan villagers who observed monkeys chewing the semi-soft substance oozing from between the layers of rocks giving them incredible strength, vitality, wisdom and longevity. Later research studies showed that the substance is a combination of organic plant matter combined with the decomposing rocks, containing over 85 minerals in ionic form along with fulvic and humic acids. Shilajit enhances overall strength and stamina, and relieves stress and anxiety. It is a powerful rejuvenator and cleanser, too.
Schizandra Berry
Schizandra is an adaptogen that does just about everything. It is known as an herb that enhances physical as well as spiritual beauty. It’s a powerful blood tonic, as well as a blood cleanser, which is why it is said to make the skin soft, moist, and glowing. And, it protects the skin from the harsh effects of the wind and sun. It also strengthens sexual energy and functions in both men and women, and is an incredible endurance tonic for athletes—the two benefits often coincide. Though Schizandra sharpens the mind, improves concentration and enhances memory, it also has mild calming effects. In other studies Schizandra has been shown to improve vision and hearing.
Jujube
Jujube works as a great harmonizer with other adaptogenic herbs! It’s one of the best all-around energy and nutrient tonics known. Also, it acts as a blood cleanser, a mild laxative, a mild relaxant, and restores proper energy flow to the acupuncture meridians. Traditionally, Jujube has been used to lengthen lifespan and restore energy reserves.
Acerola Cherry
Acerola Cherry is a fruit that is a powerful healer! It strengthens the immune system, because it is very rich in antioxidants, namely vitamin C. In fact, it is one of the most concentrated forms of Vitamin C in nature. In fact, there have been over 150 constituents discovered in Acerola Cherry, and many of these have been identified as rich in antioxidants, carotenoids, vitamins, phyto-nutrients, and minerals that promote overall health and well-being. Acerola Cherry expedites wound healing, protects against cancers, and helps as a preventative against heart disease. Also, it’s a great energy and endurance enhancer.
Acai Berry
The Acai Berry is one of the most nutritious fruits in the world. Along with its wonderful fruity and cocoa taste, it is chock-full of anti-oxidants, amino acids and essential fatty acids! This berry is a super stress-relieving fruit, and incredible energy-boosting food! Perhaps this berry is most known for its ability to provide greater endurance to athletes and aide in appetite control for those trying to manage their weight.
Organic Hemp Seed Protein
Hemp seed protein is one of the few plant proteins that is a complete protein source – meaning all of the essential amino acids are present and in the right synergistic balance. Hemp seed protein is one of the most easily digestible protein sources. It’s loaded with essential fatty acids and it has a perfect balance (3 to 1 ratio) of omega 6s and 3s. Hemp seed is loaded with plant enzymes. Enzymes are the body’s little workers. They have thousands of functions. Hemp seed is great for the immune system, too. Good quality hemp seed protein is full of friendly bacteria. Friendly bacteria (flora) help to break down proteins properly in the intestines so that the body can get the right amount of amino acids in its tissues. Makes the whole body strong! Especially, the immune system! Another great thing about hemp is that there is no other protein source that contains such a high chlorophyll count. Chlorophyll is a great detoxifier along with bringing the body to a more alkaline state. Chlorophyll alkalizes the tissues, organs and blood, and energizes the cells. Lastly, Hemp seed is great at tissue repair and stimulating healthy hormone production.
Organic Spirulina
Spirulina is a blue-green algae and is being touted by many as the “food of the future” because it is an incredible nutrient-dense food source, more than any other algae. In fact, it is a more complete protein source (all of its amino acids are in perfect balance) than beef, which is only 22% protein. Spirulina is 65-71% protein. It provides dense concentrations of other micro-nutrients that are in an easily-assimilated form such enzymes, trace minerals, and amino acids. Plus, it is extremely high in chlorophyll, a powerful, natural and effective system detoxifier, which makes spirulina extremely alkalizing, too!
Organic Purple Dulse Weed
Purple Dulse Weed is the most mineral-rich plant known to grow in the ocean. In fact, every known mineral (trace and macro) exists in Purple Dulse Weed. This mineral-rich sea vegetable is one of the easiest vegetables to assimilate and digest. It effectively oxygenates the cells along with detoxifying and alkalizing the blood and other tissues.
Organic Kale
Kale is another mineral-rich and vitamin-rich plant. The chlorophyll-rich leaves are a great source of fiber along with being a great alkalizing and detoxifying vegetable. It’s loaded with vitamins A and C, folic acid, calcium, and other phyto-nutrients. Kale is a great energy and immune booster, too!
Organic Collards
Collards are a nutrition powerhouse. Very similar to Kale, they are loaded with Calcium, fiber, vitamin C, minerals, and phyto-nutrients. They are a great detoxifying plant, because of the ability of the fiber to scour the bowel along with the alkaline, chlorophyll-rich content in the leaves. Like Kale and other green leafy vegetables, collards help in weight loss, because they are high in fiber and nutrients, but low in calories.
Organic Broccoli
Broccoli is a powerful immune booster on account of its antioxidant activity. Broccoli increases the levels of glutathione in the body, which is the body most powerful antioxidant. It stimulates enzyme activity that is imperative for proper cell function, along with having powerful detoxifying effects.
Organic Spinach
Spinach is one of the best natural blood tonics! Spinach is concentrated nutrition. It regenerates red blood cells, oxygenates the cells and tissues of the body, and is loaded with blood-building nutrients such as iron, vitamins A, C, E, K, and Folic acid. Additionally, it’s loaded with calcium and potassium! Spinach is also a powerful detoxifier because it is rich in chlorophyll!
Organic Brussels Sprouts – Brussels sprouts are loaded with sulforaphanes, which stimulate enzyme activity. Enzymes are necessary for assimilating nutrients along with detoxifying the cells. Additionally, brussels sprouts are rich in chlorophyll — another great way to detoxify the blood and other tissues!
Organic Wheat Grass
Wheat grass is loaded with vitamins, minerals, and other phyto-nutrients. Another great detoxifier since it is chlorophyll-rich. Lastly, wheat grass is a natural energy and immune-booster. Wheat grass is harvested before gluten is formed, which makes it gluten-free!
Organic Barley Grass
Incredible amounts of minerals and vitamins and other phyto-nutrients are found in young barley grass! Barley grass is a natural immune booster because it is loaded with several powerful antioxidants. Barley grass is another chlorophyll-rich plant, which makes it a powerful alkalizing and detoxing agent.
Organic Alfalfa Grass – Alfalfa grass is known as one of the most nutritious foods on the planet! Alfalfa is loaded with enzymes, fiber, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and other phyto-nutrients, which make it an energy powerhouse and super immune-booster. Because of its deep roots (they can reach a depth of 250 feet), alfalfa can absorb an incredible amount of minerals that are absolutely necessary for optimum bodily function. Again, like the other grasses it is rich in chlorophyll, which makes it a great detoxifier and alkalizer!
Organic Flax Seed
Considered by many as a miracle food, flax seed is rich in alpha-linolenic acid (a plant source of omega-3 fatty acid very similar to fish fatty acids). Some studies show that flax seed lowers bad cholesterol levels, lowers blood triglycerides, and lowers blood pressure. Flax seed is rich in lignans. Lignans are a type of phyto-nutrient (antioxidant) that has been shown to have strong disease-fighting abilities!
Organic Beet Roots
Like spinach, beet root is a superb blood tonic. It oxygenates the blood and other cells, which gives an energy boost along with increasing the removal of toxins. Because of their nutrient-dense qualities, beet roots are considered a superfood!
Organic Radish
Radish is a great source of vitamin C and is rich in many trace minerals. It is known to have many antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities, which make it a super-boosting immune food. Radish acts as a great harmonizer in herbal formulas because of its “moving” qualities when using tonic herbs.
Organic Strawberry, Organic Cherry, Organic Raspberry, Organic Blue berry, and Organic Pineapple
Along with stevia (see below), these organic powdered concentrates add a deliciously low-calorie sweetness to the taste of the ShenTrition formula. Plus, they provide natural antioxidants!
Organic Stevia
Stevia, known as the “sweet leaf,” is about 200 times sweeter than sugar and is very low on the glycemic index! It’s been used as a natural, low-calorie sweetener in parts of South America for hundreds of years. Unlike other sweeteners, which are considered “empty calories”, stevia is loaded with proteins, minerals and other health-boosting phyto-nutrients! Stevia is truly a healthy substitute for sugar.
April 20, 2010
So tell us what do you think? Click the link to fill in the survey and get entered in the drawing for a free bottle of ShenTrition. (Applies to ShenTrition users only!)
CLICK HERE TO FILL OUT THE SURVEY
We’re going to randomly pick an email address on June 1st. So, fill it out now so you don’t forget!
And here’s another ShenTrition story:
“I finally decided to try Shen Trition. The Shen Trition, once you get past the looks of it, rewards with a wonderful fruity taste in purified water. I even drink the water I use to rinse out the glass! I noticed on my first glass of Shen Trition, that I felt something good come over me! I couldn’t put my finger on it–but I felt something good. I’ve been taking it every day, and can say there is truth to your claims, because I can feel the results after every dose. I like it!”
~Mike T Sr.
April 12, 2010
Stephen’s Power-Packed Pantry List: 10 Items for the Immune System
Posted by shenlife under GeneralLeave a Comment
The next time you feel a cold or flu coming on or are just looking for some inexpensive yet powerful immune boosters just take a look in the pantry. I’ll bet you have most of these already!
Garlic – Garlic is a great immune booster. It is an anti-microbial, anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungus and anti-parasite. It is best consumed fresh. Once you cut it, it becomes active. The more it’s cooked the less potent the active ingredients. It’s best to add garlic the last ten minutes of cooking.
Curry Powder – Curry powder has been used for centuries in the East as a way to combat micro-organisms. It grows wild in the foothills of the Himalayas in India, Thailand, and other nearby areas. Curry is best when added to meals at the end of cooking or after cooking.
Onions – Onions are a great immune booster for several reasons. One is that they are high in bioflavins and compounds rich in sulfur. Again, try not to overcook them. The active ingredients get destroyed by overcooking.
Cayenne Powder – Cayenne is rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A, which are powerful anti-oxidants. A pinch in the morning juice is a great way to consume cayenne.
Oregano – Oregano has two compounds that have been shown to eliminate micro-organisms – carvacrol and thymol. It’s also a great anti-parasitic! Add a pinch to your dish at the end of cooking – this will do the trick.
Apple Cider Vinegar – micro-organisms thrive in a body whose pH is out of balance. Apple cider vinegar helps to restore and balance the digestive system’s pH. It’s also anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral. Make sure you get the unprocessed kind. One teaspoon in the morning should be sufficient.
Cinnamon – Cinnamon is full of anti-oxidants and it’s an anti-bacterial agent. Adding a pinch to your morning oatmeal or tea is a good way to get it into your diet.
Black pepper – Black pepper is a great metabolic stimulator. It stimulates the breakdown of fat cells. It’s chock-full of anti-oxidants and is brutal on micro-organisms. Also, it has a heating effect on the body, which induces sweating, aiding in the removal of toxins. Careful though, too much can be harmful. So, a pinch in the meal is enough to do the job.
Ginger – Another great anti-microbial and anti-viral, ginger has been used for centuries for food poisoning. A little in each meal is good to guard against food contamination; especially if the food is raw. Pickled ginger is good too.
Raw Honey – Unlike refined sugar, raw honey is a powerful immune booster. It contains 27 minerals, 22 amino acids and several thousand live enzymes. Make sure it is raw, and not cooked like most store-bought honey. It is best to be taken with food as a condiment or a teaspoon in your favorite warm beverage.
Happy Shopping!
April 12, 2010
Longevity Wisdom or Ancient Wisdom
Posted by shenlife under General | Tags: adaptogens, chinese herbs, health, stress, supplements, product, red wine, resveratrol |[3] Comments
Likely, you’ve heard the hype. There’s a new pill that takes the active ingredients from red wine now available 200 times stronger to help boost energy levels, improve cell function, increase metabolism, reduce carbohydrate intake and more. The ads, video clips and print buzz is all over. I even saw a bit on 60 Minutes. The marketing appeal made the benefits seem so special that I got excited too. Do you know which new supplement I’m talking about? It’s Resveratrol™, of course!
Fortunately, when I started reading up on this new wonder pill, I found an obscure reference to the fact that the same properties being attributed to Resveratrol™ are also found in a special Chinese herb. My senses started to return. “Of course, there are herbs that do what this ‘breakthrough pill’ is promising,” I thought. Most nutriceuticals (Wikipedia defines nutriceuticals as: a term combining the words “nutrition” and “pharmaceutical,” is a food or food product that provides health and medical benefits, including the prevention and treatment of disease) are copied forms of botanicals, but the pills have better marketing hype and higher profit margins. The herbal approach on the other hand is already bio-available, it is already tested with centuries of research, and the herb is caffeine free!
(Yes, I noticed in the fine print that there are 200mg of caffeine in the new pill, and warns users to refrain from drinking caffeinated drinks while taking it. Nice contradiction!)
What is this fabulous herb that I’m talking about?
The incredible rejuvenating tonic is Polygonum Multiflorum, also called Fo Ti, Ye Jiao Teng or He Shou Wu. This herb is often used to bring about mental clarity and to invigorate the brain. However, its real claim to fame is its ability to restore vigor to a tired, old body by returning an aged person to youthfulness. Effects of such youthfulness are: improved physical stamina and muscular composition; an increase of virility in men and sexual vitality in women; restorative effects on the hair, nails and skin; immunity support and metabolic balance. Polygonum Multiflorum has also been shown to be a mild cleanser of the blood. Plus, it is a fundamental herb for spiritualists who desire to strengthen the inner fires of the procreative force. Perhaps most importantly, He Shou Wu strengthens the body’s adrenals, which are the primary mechanism for responding to stress. There you have it. This wonderful herb is a body enhancer, blood tonic, sexual tonic, immune booster; Kundalini encourager; stress combatant and longevity promoter.
Now that sounds as good as the red wine pill…actually, it’s even better. I’m especially grateful for this wonderful solution from Mother Nature, because now I don’t have to invest in a vineyard.
Polygonum Multiflorum is a part of a powerful group of herbs called tonic herbs or adaptogenic herbs.
What classifies an herb as an adaptogen? 
An herb must have a general healing influence on the body or a “non-specific treatment protocol;” meaning, it provides a normalizing influence on the body and exerts a general tonifying (enhancing) effect, rather than over-stimulating or inhibiting normal functions. Put simply, it balances the body’s systems and builds adaptive energy (life force, qi or prana).
Adaptogens flourish in extreme environments. Be it in below zero temperatures or high altitudes, these plants and herbs thrive by developing phyto-chemicals that help them withstand the onslaught of the harsh environmental stressors they grown in. Not only do they learn to survive, but they learn to thrive. Adaptogens’ ability to relieve stress is the result of their fight for survival in the elements. When we use adaptogens, we absorb their healing properties and we reap the benefits that they provide. Our immune system gets a super boost, our sexual vitality gets reinvigorated, our cells easily release toxic waste, our metabolism normalizes, our energy and stamina increase, and we are able to better adapt to life’s changes!
Now, that’s a commercial!
So, did we, the consumer, really benefit from a scientific, longevity breakthrough? Or is this ancient wisdom being repackaged by the medical community? I think the answer is—both. Ancient wisdom offers us awesome natural alternatives that the current medical researchers clearly define and confirm. I think the marriage of these approaches is vital for the progress of medicine. However, as far as this particular case, nature still provides a better option.
When considering adaptogenic supplements to boost longevity, I prefer a supplement that utilizes a wide array of adaptogens in a formula. The best adaptogen and longevity-promoting, whole-food supplement that I know of is ShenTrition. It uses a powerful blend of whole foods (organic hemp protein, superfoods and alkalizing greens) to deliver the widest array of adaptogenic herbs I found. ShenTrition is an incredible immune and energy building formula that actually tastes good. Check it out!
And, be careful to read the fine print next time you see a hot, new product on the market–hype usually does not translate into benefits.
March 6, 2010
By: Erica E. Rogers
The brilliance of the human organism astounds me each day. Whether we, humans, are studied under a microscope or from afar, we are all certainly gorgeous.
I find the interconnected relationship of our many dimensions most interesting. For instance, the relationship between the mind affecting the body and vice versa ; or how emotions can warp the appearance of everything; and how the body can determine what we are capable of in certain situations is all fascinating. I consider the study of that inner-dimensional connectedness within the human experience a lifelong experiment. My inner lab assistant observes everything, notates reactions and outcomes, and accumulates any data that supports the hypothesis of how to live life more whole.
There are various experiments scientists perform in the laboratory. When transitioning to the lab of life, there are many tools to apply that will enhance our inner connectedness. In fact, there is one surefire tool that you already use daily in life that, if applied correctly, can help dramatically.
Any guesses?
It’s a simple one, breathing.
The process of breathing is so simple it is often neglected. Knowing how the breathing process is supposed to work, I can tell you that most people do not breathe correctly. Oftentimes, we only pay attention to our breathe when we’re performing tasks such as exercise, meditation and singing. Equal consideration needs to be applied to breathing throughout the day. When we drive the car, wash dishes, or take out the trash, there is a correct method to breathe.
Called deep abdominal breathing or the natural breath, the process starts from the diaphragm. Air gets pulled into the body by the suction created from muscles in the torso that expand the thorax and abdomen. Likewise, as the diaphragm relaxes, air is exhaled from the body. This exchange ideally travels through the nose. Contrary to average shallow breathing, the chest is not the focal point. Rather, the lower core is at the core of the breathing process.
When breathing, I use a few check points to monitor my breath efficiency. First, I take notice of my nose. To encourage breathing from the nose, I rest my tongue gently on the soft palette of the roof of the mouth. This will connect the flow of life force (qi) in the body too. Inhaling the air, I make sure to allow the belly to move and feel the air travel to my tailbone. The abdomen must expand along with the back and lower ribs to take a full breathe. But, the chest moves opposite—it descends on the inhale. When exhaling the chest and spine rises, and the belly and ribs deflate.
There you have it.
Inhale through the nose. Let the abdomen and lower ribs expand. Then exhale, chest rises and the abdomen deflates. Let the air flow in a smooth, penetrating rhythm. Flow is crucial. When the breath flows, life-force flows. Think of the breathing process as a small illustration of the flow of life.
When observing the entire breathing process, the situations that impede the natural breath become clear. Anxious, frenzied emotional states impact the flow of breath tremendously. Even more amazing is the impact of poor (or unhealthy) breathing on our choices and actions. I always notice when my choices turn into burdensome obligations, because my breathing becomes shallow and short. Anytime my breath becomes shallow, short or imperceptible, that’s a trigger to BREATHE (and reconsider my actions). It is not a coincidence that the definition of anxiety is, “to choke out or to suffocate.” Anxiety and the obstruction of the breath go hand in hand. This is one reason why it is important to pay attention to regulating the breathing process.
A secondary approach to support the breathing process is with the of use herbs, specifically adaptogenic herbs or simply, adaptogens. Adaptogens are specialized herbs that help us to adapt to stressful situations. By using adaptogenic herbs regularly, anxiety, which is a byproduct of stress, can be alleviated and better managed, which makes natural deep breathing much easier. Do some research, but you’ll probably agree ShenTrition is one of the best supplements to get a wide array of adaptogens. It’s my favorite, hands down!
Study how your breath works throughout the day. The flow of this common process is extremely vital to our health and personal growth. Remember to let it flow and just breathe.
January 13, 2010
Adapting to Stress
Posted by shenlife under Health Related, Informational, Lifestyle, Living | Tags: healing, health, prevetat, stress, stress management |1 Comment
By: Erica Eddleman Rogers
“Where do I start?”
That’s the same question I asked myself over 11 years ago. As a sophomore in college, I anxiously questioned the direction of my life. There are many transitional moments in the course of our lifetimes that spark similar questions. “What do I want now?” “Why am I in this situation?” “How can I change things?” From such introspective moments we can often obtain the right answers. And sometimes those answers may lead to an inspired life, which is exactly what happened to me.
After much study and practice in holistic health and wellness, I came to believe that in order to build an ideal life we must build a solid foundation, and the foundation we must invest in is in our health. I’m referring to our whole health, or wholeness, as the origin of the word denotes. The online etymology dictionary defines health as, “wholeness, a being whole, sound or well.”
(http://www.etymonline.com/index.php?term=health )
Whole health or wholeness is more encompassing than what’s practiced in allopathic medicine. Wholeness is even more engaging than what an acupuncturist or naturopath can treat. True whole health requires the highest level of personal responsibility. It incorporates all of the dimensions of our being: physical, emotional, mental, energetic and spiritual. Whole health is the result of embodying whole consciousness, and that is a whole lot.
There are many systems that outline a path toward wholeness and you may already have a routine that works for you. Likely it may include exercise, meditation and a nutrition regimen, and, when followed diligently, it works. However there are times when we are unable to apply our routine and there are times when maintaining healthful habits seem impractical.
Why? What happens then? Why are those times tougher than others? Does something get in our way?
That something is known as stress. It sounds like a mischievous goblin looking to sabotage everything that hard work builds. Think about it. When someone describes an obstacle, more often than not, stress is the culprit. Call it an invisible sidekick to adversity. Fortunately, stress isn’t a masked bandit running amuck, and we can better manage its impact on our lives.
For many of us, the word stress is somewhat ambiguous. Wikipedia states, “stress is how the body reacts to a stressor, real or imagined, a stimulus that causes stress.” According to another definition, stress relates to the pressure, pull, or other force exerted on one thing by another. The source of the tension is a stressor, and the quantity, quality and duration of the tension helps to categorize it as a specific type of stressor. To better understand stress, we need to take a closer look at the types of stressors:
- Mental stressors—all mental illness, chronic unresolved issues, major life changes, overburdened with responsibility, self-image issues, and obsessive thinking
- Emotional stressors—anger, rage, irritability, worry, anxiety, fear, fright, terror, depression, desire, lust, sadness, grief, and over-excitement
- Physical stressors—too much strenuous activity such as overwork and too much exercise, physical trauma, starvation, medical issues, suffocation, alcohol and drug use, lack of sleep, illness, and child-birth
- Environmental stressors—sudden changes in climate or exposure to severe climate conditions, electromagnetic waves (Wi-Fi networks), excessive exposure to sun, exposure to harmful microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, molds, and parasites), exposure to chemical toxins (pesticides, herbicides, fungicides, insecticides, heavy metals, households and industrial chemicals); also, consumption of nutritionally deficient foods such as refined foods, irradiated foods, trans fats, caffeine and other stimulants
- Spiritual stressors—loss of direction and life purpose
As we can see there are many kinds of stressors. Certainly, it is important to minimize our exposure to unnecessary stressors even though stressors are a part of life. Therefore our focus should be on how we process stress. Our bodies metabolize stress in two different ways; either as helpful eustress, which is anabolic in nature (meaning it builds us up) or as destructive distress, which is catabolic (meaning it breaks us down). The old saying is true, “what doesn’t kill me, makes me stronger.”
Hans Selye outlined our stress response in more detail, and earned the nickname “the father of stress research.” In his General Adaptation Syndrome, Selye delineates a sequence of reactions the body goes through when responding to a given stressor. First, in the alarm stage, we experience an internal alert where the body prepares for action with adrenaline and cortisol. This is commonly known as a fight-or-flight response. Next if the stressor persists, the body goes into the resistance stage. Here the body reallocates its primary force to deal with the stressor. This is the “cope and adapt…or else” stage. If the tension persists, then the body will fall into the exhaustion phase. This is the danger zone. In the exhaustion phase we are vulnerable to illness and weakness. Selye’s research proves that the key factor to our body’s survival is its ability to adapt. Our ability to adapt depends on our adaptive energy. He coined that phrase because in situations when our adaptive energy is high, we move through stress unscathed. But when our adaptive energy is low, all things can go wrong and likely do.
Bravo Hans! Good job.
The importance of adaptive energy has been a part of ancient wisdom for centuries. Adaptive energy is the same force that mystics and scholars realized is the foundation for spiritual growth, as well as physical health and well-being. They called it prana, ki or qi (sounds like chi). Because of its vital significance, sages of antiquity sought out ways of enhancing qi. They found help through Mother Nature. There’s an actual solution—a group of rare botanicals that enhances adaptive energy more than anything else. These plants cultivated strong adaptive power because they grow and thrive in harsh conditions. When consumed, the body absorbs their extra adaptive power. In Chinese Medicine these plants are called tonic herbs for their tonifying effects. This group of herbs is also found within Ayurveda’s rasayan formulas for spiritual alchemy. As fate would have it, these botanicals were rediscovered in the West in the 1940’s when Russian scientists unlocked their secret and named them adaptogens. The Russians used adaptogens to help alleviate the distress their Olympic athletes experienced from over-training and they were also used as healing aids after the nuclear accident in Chernobyl. Their modern research proves that adaptogens have a unique ability to bring the body to homeostasis and lessen the effects of stress on a person, be it physical, emotional, mental or environmental stress.
These herbs are amazing. Just take a look at some of these herbs and their benefits!
American Ginseng
By far the most popular adaptogen, Ginseng (pronounced “gin-sing”) is considered the most lucrative legal crop in the world. Ginseng has been used for thousands of years to prevent an extraordinary amount of problems, from premature aging, to low libido, low energy and cancer. It can, to a certain extent, be supported with scientific research regarding its anti-carcinogenic and antioxidant properties. American Ginseng is the best variety of the ginsengs because of its neutral healing properties.
Astragalus
Astragalus has been considered one of the most potent immune tonics by ancient physicians and modern researchers alike. For over 2,000 years, it has been used for lifting the mood, strengthening muscles, increasing metabolism, reducing stress, and strengthening the body as a whole.
Atractylodes
Atractylodes is a powerful energy tonic. Also, it is well-known for balancing the digestive system. It is widely used by athletes and those interested in weight loss because of its mild diuretic action, and ability to increase metabolism and vitality.
Cordyceps
Cordyceps is renowned as a powerful energy and endurance tonic, because, it increases oxygen capacity, battles weakness and fatigue, and boosts lung function and capacity. Also, it strengthens the immune system and improves sexual vitality. Cordyceps is a superstar among the longevity tonics!
Gynostemma
Gynostemma is the all-time stress-fighting botanical. Gynostemma calms the mind, eases tension in the body, and increases vitality and energy; plus, it acts as an anti-inflammatory and powerful immune tonic.
Licorice
Licorice root has been used for thousands of years to rid the body of unwanted toxins, increase energy, and harmonize herbal formulations. It is one of the most commonly used adaptogens.
Fo Ti
Also called Polygonum Multiflorum Root, it has incredible rejuvenative effects. It is often used to bring about mental clarity and to invigorate the brain. However, its real claim to fame is its ability to restore youth to a tired, old body! In China, it is said to help return an aged person to youthfulness.
Reishi Mushroom
Reishi is one of the most powerful, potent tonic herbs known to man. It is an immune booster as well as a mood regulator. It is widely used among meditators for calming the mind and inducing expanded states of consciousness.
Shiitake Mushroom
Shiitake mushroom, one of the most highly prized botanicals of Chinese and Japanese herbalism, is used to improve energy, blood circulation, and strengthen the body as a whole.
Ashwagandha
Ancient physicians have used ashwagandha for everything from hiccups to cancer. No doubt it has impressive adaptogenic properties. This powerful herb is one of the best adaptogenic herbs for restoring homeostasis!
Lycium
It is said that Lycium will brighten the eyes, promote happiness, and strengthen vitality, plus, it is a strong sexual tonic! In essence, it restores and builds the hormones that keep us vital and youthful!
Rhodiola
The story goes that those who regularly took Rhodiola lived to see 100 years. Science has now proven this herb to have powerful longevity attributes, and helps control stressful situations that lead to chronic diseases. Rhodiola also has been observed by researchers to have a potent detoxing effect on the body’s systems.
Gotu Kola
Gotu Kola boosts the body’s energy reserves, thus strengthening the brain. This is why it is referred to as a brain tonic. This action of boosting the brain by revitalizing the body’s energy is known as the “secret of immortality.”
Siberian Ginseng
Siberian Ginseng strengthens sexual performance, builds energy and stamina, and improves mental abilities. It was given its fame by Russian Olympians who used it to expedite the recovery process from over-training.
Adaptogens are my safety net or insurance policy. They help me stay in control of my reaction to stress and with their help I avoid the desperate choices that I could make because of exhaustion. And most often they provide a boost of energy and mental clarity.
We are fortunate to have access to these herbs with the click of a mouse. In the book, Adaptogens; Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief, by Winston and Maimes, multi-herb formulas are recommended for the harmonizing and boosting effects. Though single herb preparations are fine, a wide array of adaptogens in a single combination prove to be more powerful and balanced. Because these herbs primarily restore balance in the body they are safe to take on a regular, long-term basis, unlike treatment-oriented formulas.
Supplementing with adaptogens is the easiest step I’ve taken to build an ideal life. Of the many choices available, my personal favorite adaptogenic product is ShenTrition. I think it is the most powerful and effective.
Do yourself a favor and take these herbs regularly! Safeguard your health and growth with adaptogens.
January 7, 2010
The following article is in response to the following question: “I’d like to hear a Shen Life perspective on what may be more optimal for human development (i.e. High protein diet, Vegan, Raw Foodism; Modern Ovo-Lacto Vegetarian diets).”
First of all, what is Shen Life?
Shen Life is a framework for holistic healing, personal development, and spiritual growth; but even more, it is a vision for humanity-a stage of human development where Shen (Creative Source) is fused in perfect harmony with every aspect of life…hence, a Shen Life.
The Shen Life Teachings are presented by its model, known as the Shen Life Tree. Eating (or proper nutrition) is a primary biological need and is one of the Roots of the Shen Life Tree. One of the core tenants of the Eating section is “food is fuel,” rather than food is a source entertainment. So, eating is approached as an important factor in our healing, development and spiritual growth. Food can still be enjoyable; however, its nutrient density is far more important than its entertainment value.
There are many approaches to nutrition, especially in regards to personal development and spiritual growth. Obviously, some are better than others. Not to mention that what works for one person may not work for another. Plus, what works well for you today may not work so well tomorrow. Therefore, it’s best to think of eating as an ongoing self-experiment.
In regards to human development, the most important factor in nutrition is the cultivation of life-force. Life-force is the fuel that propels us into the unknown world of Shen, Spirit, God, or Creative Source. Without abundant life-force, we won’t get very far. When cultivating life-force, the two primary points in nutrition to consider are the quantity and quality of our foods.
Obviously, quantity relates to how much we eat in a particular meal, but it also pertains to the correct balance of macro-nutrients. There is a correct ratio for the proteins, carbohydrates, and fats per meal or snack. This is vitally important for balancing the blood sugar and maintaining energy levels. Secondly, consider quality. Different types of foods have different nutrient and caloric values. By keeping meals calorie low, yet nutrient dense, the body benefits greatly. This helps the body to avoid the strain of breaking down excessive food stuffs, but still getting a high amount of vital nutrients.
Regarding nutrition, one of the biggest pitfalls I’ve seen, as both a practicing physician and spiritual teacher, is the trend of individuals falling into an extreme approach. What is an extreme? An extreme form of eating can be anything that inhibits life-force. Often these approaches are unnatural, nutrient deficient and create excess work during the digestive process.
With that said, I’ll address the original question. Here are some notes about popular diet regimens.
The high protein diet
Wikedpedia: “A high protein diet is often recommended by bodybuilders and nutritionists to help efforts to build muscle and lose fat. It should not be confused with low-carb diets such as the Atkins Diet, which are not calorie-controlled and often contain large amounts of fat.”
First, what is considered a high protein diet from the Shen Life perspective? Unless you are an “elite” athlete (a professional), anything over 25% protein of the total macro-nutrient level in your diet is high. The high protein diet is hard on the kidneys! So, it’s not a good plan. By the way, even though professional athletes need to consume more protein to meet their unusual demands, their bodies pay for it in the long run. So is it worth it?
A little food for thought.
Veganism
Wikepedia: “Veganism is a diet and lifestyle that seeks to exclude the use of animals for food, clothing, or any other purpose. Vegans endeavor not to use or consume animal products of any kind.”
Beyond the animal issue, the typical vegan has little knowledge of how to plan their meals so that he or she receives enough of vital nutrients. Or if they do know, it usually becomes such a hassle that “slipping” becomes a huge problem. This is why I don’t suggest this route. However, if you feel this is your path and you are very disciplined, then I suggest the following:
First, make sure you are getting enough complete proteins in your diet. Complete proteins are those that contain all of the essential amino acids. Plus, they’ll contain many of the micro-nutrients we need such as vitamins and minerals. These amino acids need to be in the correct proportion for the body to utilize them. Even if all the essential amino acids are present, if they aren’t in the right proportion to each other, then it is still an incomplete protein source.
Almost all animal sources of protein are considered complete proteins. Since they aren’t on the menu for vegans, here are some alternatives: amaranth, buckwheat, hemp seed, soybeans, quinoa, and spirulina. Fermented soy sources are the best soy options. But note, soy and spirulina should be taken in only small amounts.
And then there is the Modern Ovo-Lacto Vegetarian:
Wikepedia: “An ovo-lacto-vegetarian is a vegetarian who does not eat beef, lamb, pork, poultry, fish, shellfish or animal flesh of any kind, but is willing to consume dairy and egg products. In the Western world lacto-ovo vegetarians are the most common type of vegetarian.”
I am not a fan of dairy products or the consumption of more the two servings of eggs per week. Dairy products are incredibly phlegm producing, which is immune compromising. Dairy products also can lead to a condition called protein calcuria (where too much protein is in the bloodstream). This condition will cause the body to utilize its storage of calcium to remove the excess protein from the bloodstream. So, contrary to popular belief, milk doesn’t do a body good, and it isn’t a good source of calcium. However, it’s a good way to deplete calcium from the body. Besides, by the time humans are one years of age, we lose the enzymes responsible for breaking down dairy products.
This next approach may be one of the most extreme and damaging to life-force production – Raw Foodism.
Wikepedia: “Raw foodism (or rawism) is a lifestyle promoting the consumption of un-cooked, un-processed, and often organic foods as a large percentage of the diet. If 75% or more of a person’s total food consumption is raw food, he/she is considered a raw foodist or living foodist.”
On the surface, eating raw foods sounds like a good way to go if one wants to get the most life-force. Right? Because if the food is raw, then it hasn’t been cooked or denatured, which means the life-force is abundant. Yes, cooking food destroys enzymes, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, and ultimately life-force. But does going raw make complete sense?
When it comes to the body’s optimal function, the spleen and stomach need to be slightly warm to digest foodstuffs properly. This is commonly referred to as digestive fire. Raw foods are extremely cold-natured, and in large quantities, they will extinguish the digestive fires. As a result, our bodies are forced to work overtime. With this diet plan, the body wastes a considerable amount of life-force.
On the other hand, if we overcook food, then a similar thing happens. Foods become heavy and are more difficult for the body to break down. The life-force value is not maximized either.
By now you’re probably wondering, “What do you suggest Stephen?”
Well, the body loves moderation. We do suggest eating some foods raw. Salads, vegetable juices, and fruits obviously are to be consumed raw. A good rule of thumb is that no more than 50% of the diet should be raw. For veggies, we suggest lightly steaming them. They are digested easier, and most of the vital nutrients are intact.
Having lived the day-to-day Kundalini experience (or awakened spiritual fires), I’ve found the greatest challenge is learning to fan the fires without extinguishing them or myself. Many folks begin extreme dietary regimens hoping that they will somehow ignite a spiritual awakening. A sound, nutrient dense diet can help ease your spiritual path, but it won’t ignite an awakening. There is no such thing as finding enlightenment through eating tofu. This is a big myth. The key to growth in any spiritual path is and always will be the proper application of attention–that is it.
The Shen Life approach to eating is way too extensive for one article. If you would a free copy of my “Wholistic Nutrition Made Simple” seminar. It is offered free with your purchase of the ShenTrition Special Offer.
To whole living,
Stephen
January 6, 2010
After twenty years in the health and wellness field and over a decade in private practice in holistic medicine, it became clear to me why the majority of my clients were complaining about things like low energy, muddled concentration, lack of ambition, and chronic illness.
They were full of crap! No, really, they were literally full of metabolic waste; that is, their bodies were overloaded with toxins.
It’s widely known that the majority of Americans are FULL of toxins. It’s also common knowledge that these toxins lead to a host of ailments! The most common ones being sluggishness, poor immune function, chronic fatigue, chronic pain, or feeling just plain old worn out!
Yes, it’s true, we are full of toxins!
These toxins are made up of heavy metals, impacted fecal matter, phlegm, cholesterol, parasites, industrial chemicals, and environmental particulate matter.
How does all of this happen?
The simplest answer…mainly, it’s due to our lifestyles!
The biggest area of concern is our eating habits – the consumption of soda, caffeinated products, sugary snacks, excessive animal proteins, fatty foods, refined carbohydrates, artificial preservatives, and phlegm-producing products such as dairy and wheat. Other lifestyle factors include poor sleep habits; lack of exercise; alcohol, drug, and tobacco consumption; and stress.
There is help!
Think of the body as being similar to a car. Starting on the outside and moving inward, there is the outer structure (the skin, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and fascia); the engine (heart, lungs, digestive system); the drive train (the spine); the frame (the bones); the electrical system (the nervous system); the oil and other fluids (blood and body fluids); the filtering system (liver, kidneys, bowel, and lymphatic system); and, of course, the fuel (food, water, and air).
What do you think would happen if you consistently neglected your car’s cleaning mechanism; that is, your oil, air, or fuel filter?
The car’s oil, fuel and air would become contaminated and, therefore, compromised!
The oil changes from black into a sludge-like goop, the fuel starts to gum-up clogging the fuel injectors and the air intake jams resulting in poor engine performance. When you push the accelerator, your car would act as though there was a clog in the fuel line and as if it’s being weighed down like it was dragging a trailer load of bricks.
Well, a very similar thing happens in your body when the filtering organs aren’t working properly. You will have low energy and it feels like you are dragging around a load of brinks in your rear end! And quite literally, you are!
Leading experts estimate that the average American has anywhere from 8 to 18 pounds of impacted fecal matter and phlegm in his or her colon. That is a lot of crap! And, it’s a great place for a lot of parasites to live comfortably. One of the most unspoken and misdiagnosed maladies in medicine is parasitic infestation. Researchers estimate that 95% of all parasitic problems are undiagnosed. People have no idea how toxic parasitic waste products are – yes, I am talking about parasitic poop. They defecate and urinate inside of us!
Additionally, when the bowel is not functioning properly, your body, in its innate wisdom, signals to the liver to hold onto its toxic waste. In this way it protects itself. Otherwise there could be a bad case of auto-intoxication. Seeing that the bowel is porous and some of the digestive process happens in there (in both the small and large intestines), if its backed up when the liver dumps its toxins, a large part of the waste will leak back into the blood stream.
Gross-o!!!
To prevent this from ever happening,examine your eliminatory system. Is your bowel working properly? How will you know? Well, do you defecate shortly after every major meal? If you don’t, then you’re backed up. Most people think that if they defecate at least once a day, they are regular – the fact is, in medicine this is considered clinical constipation.
But hold on – even if you defecate three times a day, there most likely is still a problem. The problem is the peanut-butter-like crust that lines the inside of the colon caused by eating excessive amounts of things like starches, oily or greasy foods, dairy products, and heavy meats. This crust is where most of those little critters that we spoke of before hide out – it’s their own personal mini condo! What’s really cool about the crust is that parasites can live in it and eat it at the same time. Essentially, they are fully sustainable. (I’ll bet Al Gore would love these guys!)
What’s even worse is the effect this waste retention has on the liver. The liver acts similar to the oil filter in your car, which keeps the engine oil clean. However, when the filter gets full the oil turns into a heavy black sludge. A similar thing happens in the liver. Since the bowel is backed up, the liver won’t dump its toxins. And because the liver won’t dump, the blood starts to develop a toxic sludge. This sludge can be seen pushing itself out through the skin in older adults – known as liver spots. Nice, huh!
What’s even worse is this sludge gets real hot or highly acidic. Not only does this throw the body’s pH level out of balance, but it also leads to acidosis – which means too much acid in the body.
Here is an important statistic:
Current studies show that ALL cancers have one thing in common – they all need an overly acidic environment to flourish. The latest studies from the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) state that: 1 in 2 men will contract cancer in his lifetime, while 1 in 3 women will.
This is a startling statistic, and it’s not hard to figure out why either. As I said before, it’s our lifestyles — the poor diet; alcohol, drug and tobacco consumption; stress; and environmental pollution, which all lead to acidosis.
So, what is it that I am offering you?
Why you need it!
If I haven’t convinced you by now, then maybe the following will help.
If you drink one cup of coffee per day, it will take your body all day to neutralize the acid from that cup. (I’m not talking about a Starbuck’s cup — those are 3x the amount of a regular cup — 1 cup = 4 actual ounces).
Not your problem? Hold on a minute, if you think you are in the clear, please read on!
Your body will neutralize the acid, if …
And even if you are doing all of that, there is one more factor to manage…and it’s the most important.
Stress!
Stress is the #1 cause of all disease in the body and the #1 cause of acidity in the body.
How?
When under stress, your body releases a chemical called cortisol. This chemical is vital for your survival. However, there is a downside — it’s hot and toxic, even in moderate doses! As far as we know, everyone on the planet has a fair amount of it in his or her blood stream. In fact, researchers are beginning to correlate this toxic hormone to the aging process itself. So, if you think you don’t have that much cortisol in your blood stream, then just take a look in the mirror and ask yourself, “Am I aging?” Unless you still have the cherubim face of a child or you are an immortal being, then you can bet that there is a fair amount of cortisol flowing through your veins.
After twenty years in the health and wellness field and after working with thousands of patients and clients, I’ve never encountered anyone who didn’t need to detox with a cleanse. Although, I didn’t always prescribe one, since some folks were way too weak to do one.
In any case, most people I worked with did get one. In fact, the healthiest of folks did them regularly. Why? Well, you service your car regularly right? You change the oil in your car every 3000 miles or so and replace the filters. Well, your body needs the same habitual maintenance.
As the saying goes, we need to, “let go of the old to allow in the new.”
Animals do this naturally.
Have you ever noticed every few months or so your dog or cat will eat grass? Our pets seek the chlorophyll from the grass. Chlorophyll is a natural detoxifier. It gets rid of parasites, heavy metals, and other unwanted toxins.
The fact is if you don’t detox on a regular basis, you will most likely contract one of the major killers. Think about it – that is why they are called the MAJOR killers, they kill the majority of us! So, please listen up.
If you are middle aged, it’s time to take your health seriously.
Don’t wait until it is too late.
Yes, there is a point when the body slips over the proverbial slippery slope, and it’s too late.
The Chinese have a saying, “healing a sick person is like digging a well when you are already thirsty!”
Instead, do something really good for yourself; treat yourself to the greatest gift of all – better health and well-being! Make a commitment to be healthier, live longer and happier, and make sure the rest of your life is of a higher quality.
If you want to be happier, healthier, and have tons more energy, or maybe feel better than you ever have before, then Shen Cleanse is for you!
Our 15-Day Shen Cleanse is a powerful, yet simple way to change your life for the better!
It’s for those of you who are self-starters and self-accountable. It’s for those of you who want to feel better, build a strong immune system, be happier, and stay healthy.
Now, I’ll bet some of you are wondering, “Is this for me?” You probably doubt if you have the willpower to do it, or wonder if it’s going to taste bad, or something of the sort.
I assure you, one of the most important things I learned in clinical practice is patient compliance — getting the patient to follow the healing regimen entirely. For this reason, I spent over a decade simplifying this program so that anyone could do it and do it with ease. In fact, many of my clients ask if they can stay on the teas because they taste good and they are enjoyable. Of course I say no. Once every three months is enough. Others ask to stay on them longer because of how good they feel from the eating regimen or how they enjoyed the loss of weight and the absence of bloating. Very rarely do I have anyone complain about this program. In fact, in all the years of offering this detoxing system to my clients, I’ve never had anyone return it.
Shen Cleanse is a 15-day full body program, and it’s an opportunity for you to grab a hold of your health and supercharge it. This is a chance for you to feel better, look younger, and live happier! This is truly a life-changing program.
Here are some testimonies from people just like you who have done the Shen Cleanse:
“I can’t believe how good I felt after just one week; at the end of the 15 days, I wanted to keep going”"My skin and finger nails look like they did when I was in my twenties”
“After I hit 40, I thought I would never get rid of that bloated tummy look. I did thousands of crunches, jazzercised until I dropped, jogged, and Pilates to no avail. Who would have guessed it was just an impacted colon?”
“The Shen Cleanse along with my new lifestyle gave me my health back…it changed my life…I haven’t felt this good in years!”
“If you’ve been contemplating doing a cleanse to detox your body, then there is no better time than now! I am offering you an opportunity to live a more energetic and healthy life!”
What makes Shen Cleanse better than all the rest?
I’ll be fair, Shen Cleanse is not better than all of the rest – it’s just better than most. Here is a list of some of the reasons why:
How does it work?
The Shen Cleanse 15-Day Detoxing Tea System is a series of whole herbal formulas that target the bowel, liver, blood, and kidneys. In conjunction with the program, we suggest eating mostly fresh fruits, fresh vegetables and to drink only pure water to accelerate the cleansing process.
We begin with the bowel, since we believe all health begins with the bowel. For the first five days, you’ll drink the Intestinal Tea. It removes old, toxic debris in the colon by promoting regular, healthy bowel movements, which will give you more energy and removes bloating and excess weight and rids the body of parasites. On the 6th day, you’ll add the Liver Tea. This ensures that when your liver dumps its toxic waste, the bowel will be ready to move it out of the body. The Liver Tea clears your liver of toxins, helps remove toxic sludge from the blood stream, helps to flush the gallbladder of gallstones, clears heavy metals, and protects your immune system.On the 11th day, you’ll add one more tea bag, the Kidney Tea. The Kidney Tea flushes your kidneys and urinary bladder, encourages nutrient absorption, normalizes blood pressure, and helps to dissolve kidney stones. Eventually, you’ll be drinking 3 different powerful herbal teas!
The Shen Cleanse Program floods your body with super powerful nutrition, too!
The unique thing about this program is the addition of the amazing high-powered nutritional, immune-boosting and alkalizing ShenTrition formula. If you haven’t heard about ShenTrition, then go to www.shentrition.com. The regimen calls for two servings per day of ShenTrition along with the Shen Cleanse to expedite the healing process. ShenTrition, with its powerful healing adaptogenic herbs, hemp protein, sea vegetables, super foods and alkalizing greens, acts as both a meal replacement and a super tonic for healing and rejuvenation.
The Shen Cleanse diet consists of fruits, vegetables, pure water, and herbal teas along with our ShenTrition. This floods your bloodstream with all sorts of micro-nutrients – that is, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, enzymes, and anti-oxidants. This will supercharge your energy and vitality, and keep your immune system strong.
So, what are you waiting for?
If you are still waiting for a good enough reason to do our Shen Cleanse, then I am sure the following story will push you to do it! You are going to flip when you read this…
The Cell is Immortal!
Almost every cell in your body is completely replaced within a year or so. The question then is, “Why do we age and die?” Well, some years back, a scientist and physician by the name of Alexis Carrel set out to find out why and in the process he discovered that the cell is immortal. Yes, I said the cell is immortal!
In Dr.Alexis Carrel’s laboratory, he took a chicken cell and placed it in a sterile solution.
This is important: sterile is defined as,
“Free from live bacteria or other microorganisms or toxins.”
Each and every day he had one of his graduate students change the solution so that it would remain sterile. And as long as the solution was changed each and every day, the chicken cell was vital and alive! As fate would have it, one of his students went home and failed to change the solution one evening. Guess what happened? The solution became contaminated and the chicken cell died!
Now what makes this story amazing is not that the chicken cell died, of course it would die in the polluted solution. The amazing thing was that the chicken cell was alive and vital for over twenty years. Now, that is one old chicken!
So, Dr.Carrel surmised that if the cell could remain in a toxin-free and sterile environment, excluding traumatic injuries and the like, the cell could go on living and living and living! Forever!
In essence, within the right conditions, the cell is immortal.
So, here is you chance…your opportunity to maximize your health and well-being by doing our simple, yet powerful Shen Cleanse.
December 4, 2009
Setting The Tone…the simple way
Posted by shenlife under inspiration, Introspective, Self Improvement, spiritual1 Comment
Over the years, the question I’ve been asked the most is “how do I manifest something in my life (a better relationship, new mate, new career, more money, etc.)?” Of course, the quick answer is, “we receive what we believe; our faith makes it so.” This is true, however, underneath that there is much more to it. I am not going to go into every detail of manifestation here in this article. I’ll save the long-winded explanation for my upcoming book, Shen Life. Instead, I’ll share the real secret behind manifestation that popular movies and books leave out.
As most of you know, I am not a big proponent of the Secret or the Think and Grow Rich approaches to manifestation. Not because they don’t work, in many cases they do. The problem I have with them is they promote the old way of manifestation. It’s based on the Old Testament Law of Moses (Mosaic Law), which is cause and effect.
This method, unknowingly, is based in fear, a deep feeling that one is separate, divided and lacks something. Albeit we may not realize it is from fear; nevertheless it is. Most of us simply experience the three movements of fear, rather than fear itself: “the fear I am not going to get what I want,” “the fear I am going to lose what I have,” or “the fear I am going to get what I deserve”.
There is a much simpler way to manifest, and one that is more natural. However, it is more demanding than the first. Why? It requires us to know ourselves in the deepest possible way – as Shen or Consciousness. When we know ourselves as Shen, we then are whole. We never seek things out of fear or a sense of lack. Rather, we manifest things as a natural response of who we are, the Creative Spirit.
About 2,000 years ago, a guy by the name of Jesus said he came to deliver folks from the Mosaic Law or release them from “cause and effect.” Though, Mosaic Law as it is outlined In the Ten Commandments is something we should all live by for moral and ethical reasons, he said that all the commandments could be summed up in one commandment: LOVE! When we come from Love, he said the letter of the law is written on the tablets of our hearts. So, there is no need to be overly concerned with what to do or not to do. Since we are coming from Love, all of our actions work for the highest good of everyone. Therefore, all things work out for the best.
Now, I am not suggesting that you shouldn’t have goals or make plans. Life without goals would be silly. What I am suggesting is that when you come from Love, all of your thoughts, ideas, visions, or goals will be the result of Love. Rather than muscling your thoughts, feelings, and actions to try to create a certain reality, allow your thoughts, feelings, and actions to flower fourth from the endless wellspring of creation itself – God’s Love. This will increase the likelihood of a successful outcome…and it may be better than you imagined.
Love is the most attractive power in the universe. It is literally the “feeling” aspect of Shen or Spirit. Now, I am not speaking of some sappy, touchy-feely sentimental love. Divine Love is more than that! As I point out in my coming book, Shen Life, Love can be felt as a tangible descending stream of brain chemicals originating from the center of the skull. These brain chemicals flow down into the heart via the brachial plexuses and other channels and arteries. Once they hit the heart, these Love hormones radiate to every cell in the body. They dissolve all the restricting and limiting patterns and/or memories in the body. Love literally melts them; it’s the universal solvent.
Another amazing thing about Love is that it is the exact vibration of the pulse of the planet. That’s right; it is in perfect sync with the earth’s heartbeat. Therefore, when we are “in Love,” we are in sync with the earth, and this puts us in alignment with natural law – cause and effect. This is what it meant in the Christian world to live by grace, in Yoga circles as effortless action, in the Taoists movement as Wu Wei, and in Shen Life as Flow. The Bible says, “not by might (cause and effect) but by grace!”
When we know ourselves as Shen, we are led by Shen in every way. And Shen is Love. So, when Shen is our primary goal, then Love is our primary goal, and our “cause and effect” takes care of itself. In time, we come to realize that our only marker for success in life is whether or not Love is present. When this happens, we literally become a Love offering to “all” that we come in contact.
Love is always a choice, though, at times a very difficult one.
November 6, 2009
The Divine Marriage
Posted by shenlife under inspiration, Living, Self Improvement, Social, spiritual1 Comment
Marriage between two adults is a symbol or material example attempting to reveal the true marriage – the union between our divinity and our humanity. A common word used today that stands for this divine marriage is wholeness.
Wholeness involves the coupling of two polarities within our own selves, the yin and yang, female and male, non-physical and physical. Once these polarities are reunited, then we can begin our new life, our new existence, as divine beings in this material world while bringing fourth our offspring or divine creations. As whole beings, then and only then, are we able to create from a fully conscious place.
Romance in many ways is the lure that brings two people together so that they may work out this divine drama. However, rather than being a portal that takes us deeper within, romance can more times than not become an obstacle. Instead, of finding ourselves through relational interplay, we lose ourselves in the abyss of relational trauma and drama. However, if we can remain true to the path of wholeness, and view the relationship for what it is, then we are able to truly complete ourselves and thereby become fully functional beings.
The chief signpost of wholeness is undifferentiated love. Undifferentiated love is love without exception – meaning it’s not contingent on any person, place or thing. It just is-Love! As complete, fully-functional beings, we not only begin to experience undifferentiated love, but it literally becomes who we are – that is we embody it. Some even say that undifferentiated love is the baseline of the universe, cosmos and beyond. Coincidentally, undifferentiated love resonates at 7.83 Hertz, which is known as the earth’s pulse or what is commonly called, Schumann Resonance.
Wikepedia explains:
This global electromagnetic resonance phenomenon is named after physicist Winfried Otto Schumann who predicted it mathematically in 1952. Schumann resonances occur because the space between the surface of the Earth and the conductive ionosphere acts as a closed waveguide. The limited dimensions of the Earth cause this waveguide to act as a resonant cavity for electromagnetic waves in the ELF band. The cavity is naturally excited by electric currents in lightning. Schumann resonances are the principal background in the electromagnetic spectrum between 3-69 Hz, and appear as distinct peaks at extremely low frequencies (ELF) around 7.83, 14.3, 20.8, 27.3 and 33.8 Hz. In the normal mode description of Schumann resonances, the fundamental mode is a standing wave in the Earth-ionosphere cavity with a wavelength equal to the circumference of the Earth. This lowest-frequency (and highest-intensity) mode of the Schumann resonance occurs at a frequency of approximately 7.83 Hz (earth pulse).
Once we’ve stabilized in wholeness, undifferentiated love puts us in sync with the earth’s rhythm, vibe or flow; this is also synonymous with the idea of grace in Christianity, wu wei in Taosim, effortless action in Yoga or even what many athletes refer to as being in the zone. Being in this flow, or better said, “being flow” not only brings us into harmony with the earth’s rhythms, but into connection with all sentient and non-sentient beings, harmonizes our biological systems, and, last but not least, carries us to our visions, intentions and goals with relative ease.
Our intentions are the offspring of this divine union. In our previous state, our intentions arose from the fear of being separate and a sense of lack. We felt disconnected, divided, and incomplete; so we sought people, places, and things in an attempt to fulfill ourselves. In wholeness, our intentions result from already being whole and therefore are an overflow or the “extra something” we have to give – they are our gifts.
If we are to seriously undertake the path towards this divine marriage, and move into flow, then we must consider the fundamental first step – taking care of the body. Our bodies are reality-generating organisms. Within our bodies the two polarities, male and female, commingle to produce their offspring or our divine intentions. If our bodies are in tip-top condition, then it is much easier for this process to flourish. If our bodies are weak or even worse sick, then our offspring (intentions) will not carry through to the full term of birth and instead lead to a miscarriage of sorts.
To ensure a fruitful union, we developed the Shen Life Starter Kit.
The Shen Life Starter Kit addresses the seven biological needs of the body. Once these biological needs are met, the body is on its way to optimum functioning and wholeness! Watch this video to see more or email any questions. Make note of the role sexuality plays in the divine union as discussed in the video. I’ll discuss that more next time…good stuff.
To whole living,
Stephen
April 23, 2009
Here is something to check out for those interested in storing healthy food for a rainy day.
http://www.internet-grocer.net/organic.htm
Yes, it’s store-able organic food!
April 22, 2009
This story was emailed to us as a true story about the power of ShenTrition…enjoy, we did!
“…so, after I drank my ShenTrition this morning, I was feelin’ the fire with in! So, I did what every Montanan would do…I first when to MSN weather to check the weather for the day. Since it was going to be a nice calm day, I figured I would go burn some weeds in my pasture.
Well, everything was going fine…I was Shen-in’. Weeds were burning kind of slow, and that’s good. I got this under control.
Did you know that calm does not mean calm here in Montana?
Ok, now for the rest of the story. Did I mention I sure do think Kalispell’s West Valley Fire Department is one of the best fire departments?! Have I mentioned that? Well let me tell ya…I was really impressed with how well they handle their hoses. Yep, 100+ year old monster trees with 30 foot tall flames, not a problem, put-er right out time after time… 20 to 30 foot tall grass fed fires rushing, or should I say racing, up not one hill but two hills…not a problem, put-er right out. Did I mention when pine trees catch on fire a tee shirt and rake won’t put it out?! I sure am going to miss that shirt.
Earlier, I was wondering whether I was in shape enuff to go spring bear hunting this year. Now, I’m fairly sure I am, as long as I take my ShenTrition in the morning and start a good fire as a motivator.
Let me tell you I was runnin’ here, I was runnin’ there. I was beatin’ out the fire on this tree and that tree and then on to the next tree. You know that ShenTrition feels just like adrenaline when it kicks in. You’re able to run up and down hills caring five gallon buckets of water just like you were fifteen again. Hell, my back didn’t even hurt! I did learn fightin’ an out-of-control fire while swinging a tee shirt is a great way to lose those unwanted body hairs on your belly. I’m pretty sure it worked just as well as Nair would… and I am also sure of one other thing, I don’t have any clogged arteries any more. Nope, blood is pumpin fine.
Well, my neighbor just showed up. I suppose he wants to rub it in a little, because his son was one of the first responders. I feel like a power nap now, but I will be back in the news soon I’m sure.
Hope you enjoyed this testimony on the power of ShenTrition 
“
~Montana Rockz
March 18, 2009
Scoop, Stir & Drink CONTEST – You can win ShenTrition FREE
Posted by shenlife under News & Updates | Tags: adaptogenic herbs, adaptogens, chinese herbs, greens drinks, healing, hemp milk, organic hemp protein, preventative health, recipe contest, shentrition |Leave a Comment
Go here to be sure to enter your recipe in the comment section!
Watch how to make a tasty longevity formula / superfood supplement drink. And, ENTER Shentrition Recipe Contest! Yes, there will be a winner and a prize
March 18, 2009
THANKS TO KGEZ
Posted by shenlife under Informational | Tags: kalispell, montana, shen life, shen tonic, shentrition, stephen d. rogers, the edge, z600am |Leave a Comment
This is an official thanks to z 600 am The Edge Radio Station and all the the great listeners that stopped into the radio station yesterday that provided some video testimonies.
The newest reel of testimonies will be available shortly.
THANK YOU FOR MAKING SHENTRITION AND SHEN LIFE A SUCCESS!
~Erica & Stephen
September 9, 2008
Increase Your Mojo and Energize Your Life!
Posted by shenlife under Lifestyle, Social | Tags: energy, intimacy, libido, male virility, men, mojo, sex, stamina, vitality, women |1 Comment
As many of us know, our mojo (male or female vitality or libido) declines as we age. This happens as result of a decline in sex hormones, because as we age these vital hormones become depleted.
But, they don’t have too!
If you’ve surfed the web long enough, then you are fully aware of the endless sites offering remedies for male enhancement. If you haven’t stumbled upon the sites themselves, perhaps they found their way to you via email; just check your bulk mail folder. These products don’t actually increase the size of the penis, at least not beyond its original dimensions; rather they increase the supply of vital hormones that give men an erection.
Every man remembers the time when having an erection was a problem: waking up in the middle of the night because of painful throbbing loins, or hiding that uncontrollable chubby in their pants during algebra class. Those were the days. Well, if you are approaching forty, then those days are far and few between. Why? Well, the wick in our candle has burnt down quite a bit as we approach middle age, no pun intended. I again am referring to our supply of vital hormones. There are many reasons for this depletion, some of which are stress, excessive loss of semen for males and poor lifestyle habits—females grow depleted from blood loss. Whatever the reason, low mojo affects every part of our lives. These sex hormones are not only vital for attaining a healthy sex life, but they are the foundation of sound health and vitally. Sex aside, this energy is the pep in our step, our get up and go. It’s the reason and force behind our creativity…get it, “for creation”—pro-creation. Our mojo is really the pro-creative energy in our lives. This power is vital for living a happy, healthy, abundant life.
Knowing its importance, herbalists of the Far East found particular herbal substances that enhanced the pro-creative force. They had the remedy long before Viagra. Since the feelings associated with sexuality are much more relaxed in Asia than here in the United States, people are comfortable discussing issues of impotence or declining sex drive. As a result, utilizing these mojo enhancing herbs as preventative maintenance became a part of their everyday lifestyle for both men and women.
Are you wondering, “What are these amazing substances?”
The substances that I am speaking of are known as tonic herbs or adaptogens. Adaptogens have the unique ability to normalize the body’s systems, meaning they neither over stimulate nor inhibit the body’s normal functions. They are always helping to bring the body into homeostasis. To summarize their core function, adaptogens restore the adrenals. Our adrenals are the body’s primary mechanism for responding to stress—whether it’s mental, emotional, physical, spiritual or environmental. As we live life, we endure stress—whether we know it or not. This is crucial, because stress depletes the adrenals, which depletes the sex hormones, which means stress exhausts our mojo! Adaptogens are known to restore the sex hormones in the adrenal cortex for both men and women. Herbs, such as He Shou Wu (or Fo Ti), increase fertility in women and virility in men. Studies show the herb America Ginseng strengthens the overall constitution, male libido, female vitality, immune function, and general energy levels.
Fortunately, there are many adaptogenic herbs available. When supplementing with adaptogens, we need to do some due diligence by researching the quality of manufacturing and the origin of the herbs. Also, make sure the formula uses a wide array of adaptogens. Lastly, try to find out what percentage of the product is actually adaptogens versus fillers or other ingredients. Many manufacturers will state they have several adaptogens in their product, but many times the total amount of adaptogens is small.
To get more information regarding adaptogens and how they restore the sex hormones visit www.shentrition.com.
August 20, 2008
Feed Your Spirit!
Posted by shenlife under Self Improvement | Tags: adrenals, kundalini, Self Improvement, spiritual development, stress |Leave a Comment
If you knew “some-thing” could give you an extra advantage in your spiritual growth, would you use it?
Of course you would!
Well, I’m going to introduce you to an ancient secret that masters used for centuries to boost their inner development. But, let me preface things by saying, “nothing is more important than your meditative practice with regards to spiritual growth!” The ancient masters of the Far East knew this absolutely to be true, and referred to their meditative practice as Inner Alchemy.
Webster’s Dictionary defines alchemy, “as turning something common into something special, or to change from one form to another (typically into something better than its original form).” Many historians think the Ancient Alchemists were merely looking for a way to transform lead to gold. It’s true that many did so. However, true alchemists, spiritual alchemists, sought something far more valuable than gold, in fact something priceless—Spirit. Rather than melting down metals and combining them into some special mixture in the hopes of making gold, they turned their attention inward, hoping to transform their ordinary selves into something extraordinary—hence, Inner Alchemy.
Though their meditative practice or Inner Alchemy was the core of their spiritual practice, they discovered additional ways to optimize and expedite their growth. These practices were referred to as Outer Alchemy, which involved learning to live a natural lifestyle and incorporating such things as mindful movement, breathing exercises, proper nutrition, acupuncture, massage, and herbology. They found that out of these external practices, herbs gave them the greatest advantage in their spiritual growth. Not just any herbs, but specific botanical essences with super boosting properties. These are referred to as tonic herbs.
[Webster’s Dictionary defines a tonic as follows: something that lifts the spirits or makes somebody feel better generally; a medicine that purports to make patients feel stronger, more energetic, and generally healthier.]
Out of the hundreds, if not thousands, of herbal botanicals that are available, there are but a few, that are truly considered to be tonic herbs! Of these, only a handful are known to have specific properties that can enhance one’s spiritual growth and be considered a spiritual tonic, a substance that helps to turn something common into something special.
CLICK HERE TO FINISHING READING ARTICLE…
August 14, 2008
Now – No Shipping and No Sales Taxes!
Posted by shenlife under News & Updates | Tags: consumer, customer, feedback, offer, stress |Leave a Comment
“As a dedicated consumer of ShenTrition, I thought how great would it be to get it every month without thinking about it,” requested one individual.
We heard your call and now ShenTrition is available as a monthly subscription product. To subscribe for this monthly program, Click here, “because I love the effects ShenTrition has for my well being and want to BUY IT every month!”
If you haven’t tried ShenTrition yet, do so. It manages the damaging effects stress and internally and reduces the roller coaster of moods.
Thanks for you feedback.
We’re listening,
Team Shen
July 31, 2008
Pain is part of life, suffering is optional!
Posted by shenlife under Introspective, spiritual | Tags: compassion, Lifestyle, Living |Leave a Comment
“Pain is part of life, suffering is optional.” Last week I heard this phrase used so many times in a workshop that it began to sound like a bumper sicker slogan. It’s catchy and it stuck. I sat with this idea for over a week contemplating why there is the experience suffering in my life, and here is what came up.
The experience of suffering presents itself because the self-limiting image/ego resists being in flow. Plainly stated, the self-limiting image wants absolute safety and security from the unknown. It wants to know what is coming around the corner. On top of certainty, the ego wants to be right about what it knows! The self-limiting image feels as though it is at the center of the universe and the universe should behave according to its wishes. When the universe doesn’t behave as the self-limiting thinks it should, then lamenting and suffering results.
However, change is an absolute in life. Pain is part of the change or growth process. Our tendency is to swim to shore to avoid change, rather than remaining in the flow of the river of life. This simply prolongs the pain and results in suffering. For me, learning to relax into the river of life may be frightening and painful at times, but the pain usually amounts to little more than a small bruise, unlike the prolonged suffering that is brought about from swimming to shore. Therefore, in short, pain is part of the flow of life, and suffering is the result of the resistance to the flow and its occasional pain.
What do you think?
July 31, 2008
Powerful Stress Relief
Posted by shenlife under Lifestyle | Tags: Lifestyle, Living, stephen d. rogers |[2] Comments
Are you stressed?
In our not too distant past, we humans were under much different external threats than we are today, such as being eaten by wild animals and violence from hostile invaders. Thankfully, today those life threatening stressors are almost non-existent. However, our bodies still respond to stress in the same way as when we were running from tigers. This stress response is termed as “fight or flight.” To help us protect, defend, and safeguard our survival more efficiently, the body releases hormones such as adrenaline, cortisol, and others into our blood stream during the “fight or flight” response. These hormones give us a boost of super-human strength similar to nitrous oxide in a racecar. When a racecar driver needs an extra boost of power, he hits the button that releases a much higher-octane fuel into his engine—NO2. The car’s horsepower increases greatly. However, as every racecar driver knows, nitrous oxide significantly reduces the life span of the car’s engine. This is very similar to the way the “flight or fight” response works in us: though the strength we get is incredible, it expedites aging and decay in our tissues and cells!
In extreme situations, this “fight or flight” function is needed; however, very rarely do we find ourselves in extreme situations. Yet, based on our hard-wired history, we react to today’s stressors as they were the equivalent of escaping from wild animals. Consequently, most of us, unknowingly, are under a low-grade stress response all day long…and some of us even while we sleep. Like the racecar’s engine, these stress hormones are very dangerous to our bodies if they are released for extended periods of time. That is why medicine regards stress a chronic condition.
Heal Stress Naturally with Adaptogens!
Achieving a completely stress-free life where we aren’t switching into “flight or fight” may not be possible for most, but you can reduce it significantly! Here’s how.
Take adaptogenic herbs, or adaptogens for short.
What are adaptogens? The key word here is “adapt.” Even though we aren’t being chased by large animals anymore, unless you go hiking in the Alaskan wilderness, we do have stressors such as a financial troubles, job worries, family dramas, and health concerns. To many of us, these stressors are experienced with the same intensity as the wild animals were in the past. Therefore, it is important that we learn to “adapt” better to these stressors, so that we are better equipped to deal with them.
Adaptogens were popularized by Russian scientists when they discovered the amazing effects they had on their Olympians. They found that adaptogenic substances greatly reduce the recovery time during training, therefore, helping them to better “adapt” to the extraordinary amount of stress imposed on their bodies. They borrowed this technology from ancient Chinese Physicians who had been using adaptogens for thousands of years in wound healing, stress reduction, mental clarity, alleviating depression, longevity and energy rejuvenation.
The miraculous ability to help us “adapt” to stress comes from these herbs’ unique dual-directive function; meaning they neither over-stimulate, or under-stimulate the body’s systems, but have a normalizing effect on the body and mind. Simply put, adaptogens enable the body to better cope, resist, and adapt to any stressor, whether it be ment
al, emotional, physical, or environmental. Additionally, they have the miraculous ability to aid the body in maintaining homeostasis (the crucial balance needed for optimum functioning within the body). Balance translates into deeper relaxation, optimum function, and better health!
Your body will still respond to stress appropriately, but the negative effects are minimized when supplementing with adaptogens. More importantly, these herbs relax the roller coaster highs and lows we experience from the stress response.
Boost Your Immune System!
Though stress itself is not an illness, it has been linked to a myriad of diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and cancer. In fact, studies have shown that stress is the #1 cause of all disease. The American Academy of Family Physicians estimates that around two-thirds of all trips to the doctor are for stress-related complaints. With this in mind, stress is a serious threat to our immune system compromising our health and well-being. Luckily, adaptogens help to heal the root cause of stress. In turn, the immune system flourishes as the protector of health.
Here is a little known fact: adaptogens were given to over a half a million people after the nuclear disaster in Chernobyl in 1986 to help offset the negative effects of radiation poisoning and strengthen their immune systems. These herbs must have some serious power to be used in that situation.
Not only is stress dangerous to our internal health, but most, if not all, accidents and mishaps are caused by stress. When we are under stress we make poor decisions. When we are gripped with anxiety, our awareness is occupied; therefore we tend to pay less attention to details. Sometimes, those details can cost us dearly. Like when we don’t see that car pulling out in front of us, or when we make an expensive blunder at work that ends up costing our job. Details matter, and supporting our ability to stay on top of them is worth it.
Energize your Body!
To be more specific, regarding stress, adaptogens have the amazing ability to restore the adrenal glands. The adrenal glands are the body’s primary mechanism for responding, and adapting to stress. Sometimes referred to as the body’s batteries, the adrenal glands supply the pep for our step. When we are under chronic stress, the adrenals glands get taxed until exhausted. Therefore, if they are weak, we are weak.
But, nature has provided us with a solution to low energy, and it is to recharge the adrenal glands with adaptogenic herbs, thereby producing a natural boost of energy. Yes, adaptogens recharge the adrenal glands, which this gives us more abundant energy!
Alkalize Your Body
As stress levels increase and remain, our acidity rises to dangerous levels. Stress hormones, such as adrenaline and cortisol, are part of the reason for this. I’ve heard some say in the medical field that these hormones in the blood stream over long periods of time act like battery acid slowing eating away at our health. High acidity levels increase the risk of diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, stroke, and a host of other fatal diseases.
In fact, one study has shown the one common characteristic in all types of cancers is a high acidity level—that is the pH is highly acidic. The study went on to show that no type of cancer can survive in a body with a balanced ph – that is its alkaline and acid levels are in the correct balance.
Along with healing stress, strengthening the immune system, and providing a clean boost of energy, adaptogens help to normalize the body’s pH level — a biomarker of sound health!
What to look for in an adaptogenic supplement!
An adaptogenic supplement needs to have a broad range of adaptogenic herbs such as Eleuthero Root (Siberian ginseng), American Ginseng, Ashwagandha, Astragulas, Shitake Mushroom, Miatake Mushroom, Polygonatum Multiflorum, Atractylodes, Cordyceps, and others.
It needs to be delivered in a macronutrient base (that is a proper balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates), since the body better metabolizes herbs and other micronutrients with a food or macronutrient based delivery system.
Make sure that the sources of ingredients are all-natural!
And lastly, make sure the product was developed by a qualified herbalist who understands internal medicine, not simply a nutritionist who has studied herbs or worse a businessperson looking to simply make a buck.
If you are interested in more information on adaptogens and where to receive the best adaptogenic supplements, go to www.shentrition.com. Or email a question to Stephen@Shen-Life.com.
July 25, 2008
Heal Stress Naturally!
Posted by shenlife under Informational, Useful | Tags: adaptogens, adrenals, biological support for growth, health, herbs, natural living, spiritual development, stress, stress management, supplement |Leave a Comment
Stress, depending on how we metabolize it, can either be eu-stress, a healthy motivating influence, or dis-stress, an inhibiting diseased syndrome. The latter, distress, is the number one cause of disease within the body.
Looking at distress can be stressful, so let’s keep things simple.
From a biological perspective, stress produces chemical reactions internally. These chemical reactions can be very harmful to our health. Generally, most of us remain in a low-grade stress response all day long, and often yesterday’s stress builds the foundation for tomorrow’s. When stress is chronic like this, it sets the stage for disease. The cycle can be maddening, but there is a solution.
If we can help our bodies’ process stress faster, then health, balance and peace are ours for the taking. Traditional management techniques do work, such as exercise and meditation. Yet, an aide exists that is much easier to implement and targets the negative biological effects stress produces. In fact, nature provided it for us. Adaptogenic herbs are nature’s solution for the syndrome we know as stress.
Adaptogens (also called tonic herbs in Chinese Medicine) provide a normalizing influence on the body, which means the effect is neither over stimulating or inhibiting, but is generally tonifying to the body. The core benefit of adaptogens is their ability to help the body cope more effectively with stress, and to help heal the systemic damage caused by stress. Specifically, adaptogens recharge the adrenal glands, which are the body’s primary mechanism for responding to stress and emotional changes.
Nature provides many adaptogenic herbs. Since adaptogenic herbs have a normalizing effect on the body, they can be taken on a daily basis for prolonged periods of time without causing imbalance. Doing so as a preventative measure is by far the best approach!
Now a product exists that offers most of the main adaptogens plus superfoods, powerful greens and hemp protein – its called ShenTrition.
Wheat Free. Dairy Free. Soy Free. Gluten Free. All Natural. Cruelty Free. Vegetarian. Made in the USA!
June 1, 2008
Be All That You Can Be
Posted by shenlife under Introspective, spiritual | Tags: know thyself in the deepest possible way |[2] Comments
Over the last several decades, especially since the self-help movement of the seventies and eighties, much has been made about the need for self-actualization. Movies and books that popularize this pursuit are making millions, because so many people crave to fix their life situation. Simply put, self-actualization means, “to be all that you can be.” The problem with this ideology is that it places the primary emphasis on self-development, rather than self-knowledge. Self-knowledge means to “know” ourselves in the most fundamental way.
It is impossible to be all that we can be if we don’t know who we are. To know who we are, we need to know the deepest aspect of ourselves — Spirit. If we don’t begin here, then we risk the self becoming strengthened to the point where it mistakenly thinks it alone is Spirit, as is the case with much of the self-help movement. It’s difficult to see this distinction, because the same language is used in both authentic spiritual and self-improvement pursuits.
Now, I am all for being all that I can be. What would be the point in living if we can’t be the best human being possible? Yet, without a complete union with Spirit, the self always functions from a sense of lack. It stumbles through life trying to fulfill itself through endless tasks. This kind of self-actualization is similar to the cravings of an addict. Accomplishments are treated more like momentary highs, rather than true acts of self-fulfillment. Much like an addict, the self must keep busy achieving so he can keep the sense of lack or withdrawals at bay. The individual becomes an over achiever scampering onto the next great challenge—busy chasing the next high.
With this in mind, it is easy to see that the self is never fully satisfied, because it feels incomplete. No matter how many successes, whether they be the highest awards and accolades, history-making records, multiple college degrees, or even tons of money, the self-driven life is constantly in a ravenous search trying to compensate for its feelings of lack, insecurity, and fear. That’s its curse! Therefore, it is impossible to be all that we can be from the perspective of the self-driven life. We must make the transition to a spirit-driven life, a Shen Life.
Our spiritual nature is totally complete in and of itself; it never searches for fulfillment, because all is fulfilled through knowing itself. From this perspective, we are on the right track to being all that we can be. Once stabilized in Spirit, then we understand that the self is what Spirit uses to express itself. Our external lives become the offspring of this union. We are the creative source, the creative tool and the creative expression all at once—a holy trinity. Life is seen as a creative flow, and an endless expression of who we are. Truly, there is nothing to search for because everything is right here within our very own selves.
That’s the switch from a self-driven life to a spirit-driven life, a Shen Life.
Let’s reach for it!
May 31, 2008
The need to feel special is at the core of the self-driven life. Though, each of us has a unique interpretation of what it means to feel special, we all entertain the internal notion that we are special and that the world revolves around us. Sort of like the world is a play, we are the superstars, and others are props or supporting actors at best. This delusion is inherent in the human condition and we are all participating in our one-man stage shows. However, there is one segment of the population that takes this to the extreme. It is among spiritual seekers that this compulsion to be supra-unique rears its head up to an extraordinary extent.
Throughout the change from a self-driven life to a Shen Life, the self continuously jumps in and takes control. Like an obsessive stage mom, the self takes credit for everything or spins situations to be personal to its self-image. For instance, during the transformation, there will be countless bio-energetic sensations or mystical experiences and deep insights with mind-blowing realizations, however, rather than allowing these experiences to pass, along with everything else that will change, the self jumps in and says to itself, “Look I am so special, these happened to ME.” The self doesn’t acknowledge that many people have these experiences; though, if it does realize that others are having them, it quickly validates its’ experiences as being more profound. It overly identifies with these experiences, and instead of breaking down the self-image, the energetic experiences reinforce the self-image’s feelings of superiority and supra-uniqueness.
If this tendency isn’t confronted, the self-image can begin to think, feel, and act as though it has been divinely appointed to change the world; thus begins the self-driven path to impose its spiritual, social, or political ideas onto the world. It’s inner mantra says, “what I have and who I am is so special—the rest of the world needs what I have.” The dilemma here is that the self hasn’t grown in its’ awareness and understanding to the point where the world is seen as it is – spiritual in nature. From this enlightened perspective, nothing needs to be changed. On the other hand, the self-image, high on its own mystical delusion, can’t grasp the idea that the less the self does, the more Spirit can do through it by inspiring others to awaken to the truth of their nature and the world’s true condition. Instead, it thinks it knows best, and moves forward in a frenzy of self-masturbation, pseudo-altruism, and messianic grandiosity. This is the highest expression of spiritual pride!
Just recognize, if the sentiment arises, “I need to do something to change or save the world,” then rest assured the self-image has taken over the experience. In Truth and Reality, nothing needs to be changed in this way; everything is as it is supposed to be. When we fully awaken to our spiritual nature and when we begin to see with the eyes of God, we’ll come to understand what the Old Testament communicated in, “that God cannot look upon sin.” When God looks out onto the world, God can only see himself or the many expressions of himself, which cannot be problematic. Therefore in God’s eyes there is no problem. All is well. On the contrary, the self-image sees nothing but problems and wishes to heal and change the world. In essence, the self-image projects it’s own internal drama onto the world and others. As we begin to see with the eyes of the Creator, then all of Creation is infected with what we see – perfection. Then, we understand that it is not by our efforts the world is changed, but by our divine vision. This internal revolution is the highest form of activism we can possibly engage in, and one that infects others similar to the way a virus does – subtle, but profound!
There comes a point when we no longer need to be recognized for our spiritual attainment and spiritualizing our self-image is seen for what it is – hiding behind a mask. You know what I am talking about – the slow, gliding walk, the puppy dog eyes of humbleness, the placid smile and the folded hands placed gently across the lap when seated or behind the back when walking, and let’s not forget the over engaging eye stare whose intention is to convey to others our deep spiritual attainment.
When we have come to the point where the “my” of spiritual attainment has lost its grip, then we settle into the Creative Flow of life. Then finally, we have made the shift into a sprit-driven life. We are not interested in gaining validation or respect of others. When we speak, we do so from the perspective of Spirit. We can say without selfishness that we are the One that we have been seeking – Spirit. When we speak as Spirit, then it doesn’t matter if people listen to us or not, because Spirit is speaking and Spirit is listening at the same time. Spirit speaks through us, as us, to us. If people hear it, then they did so by their own initiative and they were ready to hear, not because of anything we did or tried to convince them of. It is crucially important that we eradicate this tendency within us before it takes over the entire growth process, like a forest fire engulfs an entire ecosystem. Then we’ll truly “know” what it is to be special!
May 28, 2008
Do it with Love
Posted by shenlife under inspiration, Introspective, spiritual | Tags: challenges, inspiration, spirit |[2] Comments
It really is not so much about what we do in life as far as occupation or direction we take, but more importantly what we bring to the table when we do it. That is, are we bringing the Love?
Love is the universal solvent that breaks down all uncertainty and indecision leaving in their place a sense of supreme confidence that all is well and fine – even if the shit is hitting the fan.
This Love that I speak of is not the love of romance, nor is it the love of country, and surely its not the abstract love of an idea. In fact, its a tangible stream of gue that flows downward from the crown of the head into the physical heart and radiates to every cell of the body. In this way, the recipient of this liquid love is washed from head to toe with this Divine Tonic removing all that is not worthy of God’s presence; what is left is Love itself, the full embodiment of God in the flesh.
So, if you are plagued with indecision, a problem or questions about whether or not you are doing the right thing, then ask yourself, “Am I doing it with Love?” If you are, then its the right thing. If not, wait until you feel warm and fuzzy from the Divine Love Gue before making your choice.
Be sure to do it with Love.
April 24, 2008
There have been many terms used to describe FLOW throughout the ages. Whether it was the Christain’s “grace”, or the Taosist’s “wu wei.” Almost every great religion or philosophy had this concept as the highest attainment in their practice. In Shen Life, we too see this as the highest attainment.
FLOW brings with it clarity, which sometimes can be likened to a form of prophecy. This aspect of clarity is similar to that of psychic vision where the person having the vision can see a particular possibility that exists for someone or something in the future. However, its not this aspect of clarity that I am talking about. The most important aspect of clarity is the ability to see things in their early stages of development. The Taoists have a saying that goes something like this, “taking care of the small before it becomes big.” This simply means seeing things in their early stages of development and taking the right steps to avoid problems that may arise. Simply put, this is what my father called good ole common sense. Something that is sorely lacking in our world today! Daddy always had a good suggestion on how to remedy what he called, “a good case of the stupid ass.” He would suggest that we pull our head’s out of our asses so we could see what was right in front of us.
For many of us that have been in the human potential field, we have been drinking the positive, blind optimistic kool-aid. Some things are developing in our world right now that are not going to be pleasant or positive for any of us. No matter how much positive thinking or wishful thinking we throw at it, it won’t matter. Many of our fellow citizens are going to struggle with things that just a few years ago would have been considered impossibilities. This is not to say that we are to become pessimist, but rather to be open to all possibilities so that we can maneuver our way through whatever happens in an efficient and harmonious way.
Many have mistakenly thought of FLOW as a personal saviour that guides our steps, as a guide dog does for a blind man. This couldn’t be farther from the truth. Flow allows us to see what is right there in front of us, and it is up to us to deal with it or not deal with it. The magic of FLOW is the ability to move through horrific situations that would cause most people to crawl into fetal position; and do it with rather ease all the while remaining in a state of peace and serenity. FLOW gives us the ability to deal with things head on!
So, as my old man use to say, let’s pull our head’s out of are asses, so we can see what is right there in front of us. To do this we must open ourselves to FLOW so that we can see the small before it becomes big, and make the necessary adjustments it takes to live optimally in this brave new world. (LOL)
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- Be like Water!
March 27, 2008
What is God Like?
Posted by shenlife under Introspective | Tags: god, poetry, reflection |[2] Comments
What is God like?
“God is like sand in your face while sunning on the beach,
God is like a dog’s slobber hitting your face right after a shower,
God is like a pesky gnat buzzing about your face while taking a nap,
God is constantly in our faces,
Interrupting our self intoxication.
What is God like?
God is like a thorn in our side!” ~SDR
March 27, 2008
Confidence
Posted by shenlife under Introspective, Social | Tags: Confidence, dating, letting go, personal growth |[3] Comments
Hello All,
Here is a conversation between a friend and myself regarding confidence. I’d like to hear about your struggles with confidence…
Stephen: How is your dating going?
Friend: There has been a lot of women contacting me. I am being very selective.
Stephen: Nice. What kind of women are you attracted to – same as before or different?
Friend: Some of the same. I’m thinking that I really have to get rid of that magnet because that’s been a barrier for my growth in relationships. I feel I need to rid myself of the crap before I fully jump into that river of dating,or I’ll find myself with the same type of woman. Do you agree?
Stephen: In my experience it’s difficult to change perception or as you say “the magnet”without confronting it head on. So, I don’t think you can’t get rid of it by playing it safe– that is by not dating. Especially, since dating is your intention. We humans are active creatures. We change by jumping in the river of life and taking risks. Sure the current may be swift and we may bump a few rocks on the way, but if we can keep our heads above water and not fight the “flow” too much, we’ll find in time the river calms.
Friend: Yeah, I know. I think that for me personally success with women will open to success with other areas of my life (business, money, life, etc.). I think it’s key. Do you agree?
Stephen: I think it’s all connected. Every issue bleeds over into our lives or sense of Becoming. To the contrary, within our Being, there are no issues. The issues are like a wall of conditioning or veil separating our Becoming from our Being. Being can’t fully unite with Becoming unless the conditioning is gone. So, we have to make sure the confidence we seek isn’t more conditioning and it’s the natural result of reuniting Being with Becoming.
Friend: Yes, I feel that my confidence is not solid – it’s forced; behind it is a sense of lack.
Stephen: The normal way is “to fix” the issue by forcing a mask of self-confidence, and this can work on a superficial level; but to find true confidence is to find Shen, our original nature. Here there is nothing to be confident about or no one to impress by having confidence. It’s just a natural byproduct of “knowing” who we are in the deepest possible way.
Friend: Yes, I really feel that that is the only way.
Stephen: Well, it’s not the only way as I can attest to trying to force confidence most of my life, but it surely is a better way.
Friend: In the meantime it’s a bitch!
Stephen: It sure is! But, try not to take it so personal. The issues of the self-image are like bad drivers on the highway. We can’t chase them all down and scream at them (though at times I wish I could); and what good would it do anyway? The smart thing would be to simply let them (issues) pass and be on their way. If we resist them, they’ll linger on; and like the bad driver they’ll fight back.
Friend: So, the attitude we should have is like the Zen master’s attitude: we’ll see? Is this the “letting it pass” attitude?
Stephen: Yeah; but the Zen master knows something that most don’t. His realization is in the temporal nature of issues, and to resist them only prolongs the issue.Additionally, he realizes on a more profound level that the issues are unreal. It is kind of like the old saying, “It’s like two tears in a bucket, mother fuck it!” Right?
Friend: I have to chew on that for a while…
…
What’s your experience?
February 19, 2008
Forgiveness
Posted by shenlife under Introspective | Tags: Forgiveness, questioning, wisdom |[2] Comments
When we are done with forgiveness, when there is no one or 
no thing left to forgive, what is left? The sober realization is that the Forgiver is the thing being forgiven. The “who” that forgives is the thing being forgived. The two are one in the same. In this light, is it wiser to investigate “who” feels as though they need to forgive, or simply is it wiser to forgive. Or are they the same?
Thank you for your responses!
~SDR
February 8, 2008
What’s Next?
Posted by shenlife under Future, General | Tags: Evolutionary direction, humans, next step?, questions |[2] Comments
We humans are ever evolving. It began with the big bang, then to the single celled micro-organism, to hanging from trees, onto what we are now. Of course, this is the Reader’s Digest version, but I think you get the point. For some reason there is the unconscious belief in the collective consciousness that evolution has coming to its final resting place in us humans. Other than becoming kinder and gentler animals with more technological toys to play with, this is as good as it gets!
What I would like to hear from you all is where you think we are headed? Have we peaked or is there more to look forward to? Please don’t give me some cookie cutter, canned new-agey response like, “to infinity” or to “heaven on earth” or to “unity in diversity” or some other thing you read from the shelves of your corner bookstore. What I would like to read, is what you “know” personally? What have you “experienced” personally? And where do you think or feel or intuit these experiences are taking or leading you?
Thank you for your responses! They are greatly appreciated!
~SDR
February 1, 2008
One Power
Posted by shenlife under spiritual | Tags: absolute truth, consciousness, enlighenment, know thyself in the deepest possible way, misconceptions, one power, oneness, power, shen, spirit, spiritual, spiritual evolution, struggle, wholeness |[2] Comments
Do you battle with many powers throughout your day? You know what I mean, the power of traffic, the power of bills, the power of co-workers, the power of the boss, and the power of family. It’s easy to forget that there is only One Power, One Cause, One Source, or One Supply in the entire universe, especially when it feels like the world is taking a big dump on your head! But, this is the exact time and place when it is most important to remember that there is only One Power! Surely, there are many things that seem to have a great deal of power over us; however, this is not entirely accurate. In those moments when the many false powers feel so real, its ever important to remember the Absolute Truth that there is only One Power giving rise to many different manifestations of itself. The more we learn to remember this, the more we experience the delightful ease of the One Power. Then, all of the many differentiations of the One Power no longer have false power over us!
However, an intellectual understanding of this Truth will do little more than give some temporary comfort. We must know the Truth of One Power intimately! In order to do that, we must learn to surrender our belief in these many false powers. “How?” you may ask. By confronting the believer—our self-limiting image or ME—we surrender our belief in these many false powers. Since, the self-limiting image is the holder of these beliefs, it is likened to the general of a great army. Therefore, kill the general, and his army of beliefs goes with him! The more we 
realize this Truth, the less we do battle with these many false powers. Then, war is done and won: the final battle has been fought…Victory!
The key to finding enlightenment, wholeness, or a Shen Life, isn’t rocket science. However, with that said, it is very challenging. Why? We have to confront all of the misconceptions we have about life and ourselves, until there is nothing else left to confront, except for that One Power. Then, we’ll come to know ourselves in the deepest possible way…as that One Power!
January 25, 2008
What if…
Posted by shenlife under General, Political | Tags: campaign, consciousness, current, enlightened, events, leaders, life, politics, rogers, shen, stephen, superhuman |[2] Comments
Given this is campaign season, I’ve often thought what this world would be like if we had individuals who engaged in public service that were whole, enlightened, or had reached a Shen Life. Super-humans! Would society be ready for this? Could these folks really govern given that almost no one else is a Super-human? It’s obvious that those running for office pander to the electorate for personal gain. Yet, sometimes I feel they do it because the peeps simply can’t handle the truth! They are like children who aren’t ready to grow up. So, given the present state of consciousness of most of the electorate, can a Super-human govern in this social climate?
What are your thoughts Shen Life practitioners?
January 25, 2008
Talk about Inspiration…
Posted by shenlife under General, inspiration | Tags: compassion, hero, inspiration, life, rogers, shen, stephen |[6] Comments
Yesterday while watching TV, I stumbled on a story about a young 9 year-old boy living in Africa who is raising his 2 younger siblings, because his parents died. Now, his story isn’t unique for that part of the world, but something hit me while watching him.The boy showed the reporter a small square piece of plastic, like tarp stuff that insulates houses. That floppy plastic was his bed and shelter for his family. He struggled to keep it together as he shared his story. Despite obvious emotion, he did it. That 9 year old boy was so strong and mature. Clearly he took it upon himself to do what need to be done. That was it. He wasn’t looking for anyone else to do it for him. As I watched, something hit me. It wasn’t sadness or pity, it was admiration and inspiration! I saw this boy, developed enough to realize he couldn’t look for someone else to solve his problem, pick himself up. He didn’t look for a hand out, nor beg the government to fix his situation. He couldn’t hope that religion would miraculously save him. And obviously he was clear that his parents weren’t going to take care of him. He tapped into a wellspring of something else that gave him the balls to do whatever needed to be done to protect his family. I was in awe. And, that boy’s story stuck with me through the whole day.
This morning I shared this story with my wife. And she was impacted by the story too. But she reacted in a different way. She fell into the typical pattern of feeling sorry for the boy and his siblings. I could see it on her face…pity. Pity, that worthlessness from within that the self-limiting image (ego) interprets as compassion. Its the socialist’s idea of help. The Bleeding heart do-gooder’s excuse to give of their time and energy. Most people have that same pitiful reaction, and most people react quickly by wanting to fix it with money or some other pseudo-altruistic endeavor.
But, guess what. Most people don’t have half the strength or intestinal fortitude as that young African to actually to take action and do something about their own situations. People still look for someone or something “out there” to fix their circumstances. People generally feel sorry for themselves and others. If you don’t know what I mean, think about a tupper-ware party or any social gathering, conversations often involve someone telling of their latest awful drama and the usual response is, “aauuhh” with that pitiful pursed up facial pout; followed by a competitive dramatic event to get higher amounts of sympathy.
You know what, that boy didn’t do that at all. And his story is rough enough to beat out most. He just bowed up his chest, got the mollasses out of his asses and did what needed to be done! He made the best out of his situation! Probably to him his situation was like living at the Taj Mahal compared to living on the streets with no food, shelter or family. However, the bleeding heart do-gooders of the world, who show him pity, can’t see this empowering truth. Why? Its simple. Most of them have no idea what it is to reach down deep inside and find the best in themselves. People look to appearances. They only see the 9-year old boy on the plastic mattress with his siblings, and say, “Wow, they have it bad, that’s so unfortunate…they’re much worse off than me.”
THAT IS PITIFUL! (pun intended)
With the upcoming perfect storm of economic meltdown, politic unrest, and all of the other things approaching, the question is: can we as Americans can be content and grateful with a small piece of plastic and more importantly share our plastic with others when needed, and do so without the pity and sentimental bullshit we commonly mistake for compassion? Can we do it from a place of large, gutsy balls (or swollen ovaries in your females’ case). The young boy showed emotion, but was strong enough that he couldn’t waste any time in that position. There were things to do. And, we as Americans, as humans, have a LOT to do. Looking or waiting around for someone else to solve problems isn’t the solution. Nor is galvanizing a revolt against some perceived oppressor. The solution lies within! We all must tap that wellspring of innate power, our original nature, in order to do something and prepare for what’s to come. Its the best way!
Can you do that?
I am committed to do so for myself.
If you aren’t sure how, check out the Shen Life Teachings at www.shen-life.com. It explains in great detail what we all must do!
January 25, 2008
Hello world!
Posted by shenlife under General | Tags: direct, life, shen, spirituality, stephen d. rogers, style, teachings |1 Comment
Hello.This is the beginning of many commentaries of mine on all things of life, spirituality and developing a Shen Life.
Visit www.shen-life.com to read more about the Shen Life Teachings.
My best,
Stephen
