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

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

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!

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:

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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!

Why?

Besides the quality ingredients and care put into ShenTrition, a big reason is because ShenTrition is a full spectrum formula – meaning it nourishes all Three Treasures that comprise our being – Shen, Qi, and Essence. They are the stuff we’re made of or in other words the basis of who we are.

Each Treasure has a Prenatal (prebirth) and Postnatal (postbirth) aspect. For instance, Shen has a Prenatal aspect, which is awareness, soul or spirit, whereas, Postnatal Shen is the mind or the mental aspect. It’s the basis from which we can use reason, intellect, and judgment. It supports our ability to formulate intentions and thoughts. Prenatal Qi is our inborn life force given to us at the time of conception. On the other hand, Postnatal Qi is acquired from food air and water, and it gives rise to emotional energies and desires throughout life. Prenatal Essence is our inborn congenital essence that is contributed from our parents of which DNA is a big part. The DNA projects the blueprint used to build the physical portion of our bodies (blood, tissues and body fluids). Postnatal Essence gives rise to our sensory perception, will and ability to take action. It is replenished through food, air, and water.

A full spectrum formula such as ShenTrition nourishes and protects the Three Treasures. It also helps to bring the body into harmony with its environment. ShenTrition reduces the negative effects of stress, stimulates the immune function, boosts the body’s healing capacity, and helps the body’s systems to maintain homeostasis.

In particular, ShenTriton stimulates Wei Qi, also referred to as Adaptive Qi. Adaptive Qi is the result of the overall health of the Three Treasures. Since we are interconnected and interdependent with our environment, any change, whether it is psychological stimulation, climate fluctuations or a traumatic experience, affects our Adaptive Qi. How we respond and adapt to change determines our overall health and well being. However, our ability to respond and adapt effectively requires Adaptive Qi.

Living life requires effort and effort creates stress. Greater levels of stress and change require greater amounts of Adaptive Qi. ShenTrition provides the extra boost of Adaptive Qi for those additional adaptive needs and the Adaptogenic Herbs in ShenTrition are right up there among the best tools to deal with stress. With greater amounts of Adaptive Qi, situations that would cause most people to shrink in fear instead are easily handled. The surplus of Adaptive Qi helps us to mitigate the negative effects of stress and strengthens our overall health and wellness.

Along with the Adaptogenic Herbs, ShenTriton boasts of a wide array of other Superfoods! This combination of Superfoods and Adaptogenic Herbs takes the ShenTrition Formula to a whole other level. The blend gives the formula a kick in the pants, strengthening the immune function, alkalizing and detoxing the cells and tissues, and nourishing the blood and hormones.

All in all, ShenTrition is the most complete Adaptogenic-Superfoods Formula for strengthening the Three Treasures which strengthens Adaptive Energy, and thereby leading to a more balanced, healthy, and successful life experience!

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 40^th 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

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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.

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!

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.