Archives for December 2011

Survival Tips for Allergy Season

December 6, 2011 by Leave a Comment

The long awaited springtime is now upon us, bringing with it longer days and warmer weather. Spring is the time of new beginnings and the end of the darkness of winter. Now is when we plant seeds for a hopeful future. Flowers beginning to bloom and trees begin to bud, uplifting our spirits and giving us new energy and optimism.

Springtime can also be a very difficult time for many people who suffer from seasonal allergies. For children and adults alike, the spring can also mark a time of carrying extra tissues and hand wipes. It is a time when eyes sting, throats itch and ears block up. In addition to over-the-counter or prescription medicines, which are often necessary to get through these difficult times, there are other things we can do to help reduce the effects of allergies.

Allergies are caused by the body trying to defend itself from foreign substances such as pollen, mold and dust mites. When the body detects these foreign invaders, it reacts by producing histamines. The histamines fight off the offending substances but also cause  inflammation in the sinuses and excess mucus production.

Here are some tips to help get through the season of sniffles and sneezing:

  • Dust often and get rid of dust collectors. Collect stuffed animals, extra clothing and blankets, and store them in plastic bags. Put hypoallergenic covers over pillows and mattresses.
  • Keep windows closed to help reduce the pollen in the home.
  • Get some large leafed plants. They help to clean the air and improve air quality in the home.
  • Use natural cleaners.
  • Replace synthetic carpeting and furniture with natural fibers and woods. Many carpets and furniture are made with chemicals which can cause allergy symptoms. Carpeting also collects dust which is hard to see and keep clean.
  • Humidifiers can sometimes make symptoms worse.
  • Try using a Neti pot (available at Uplifting Connections) or saline spray to help keep nasal passages moist. The Neti pot is an ancient yogic tradition where a small tea pot is used with a gentle saline solution to clean out and moisten the nasal passages.
  • Limit dairy consumption. Dairy causes the production of excess mucus.
  • Take a teaspoon of local honey daily. Local bees make honey with the same pollen we are being exposed to, so exposing your family to it early will boost your immunity to some allergens. Honey has many other health benefits as well.
  • Take vitamin C. Vitamin C helps to strengthen the immune system and reduce histamines.
  • Eat super foods. Pineapple has bromelain which reduces inflammation.
  • Licorice can loosen congestion. Neither of these should be used for more than a six week period and should only be used in moderation (consult a health care provider if needed).
  • Shower or bathe every night, washing the hair and face to get rid of any pollen you may be bringing to bed with you. This will prevent allergy symptoms which interfere with sleep patterns and lower the body’s natural defense system.

Alternative Treatments

There are also alternative treatments available that can help relieve allergy symptoms.

Reflexology   (Available at Uplifting Connections) There are reflex points on the feet and hands which correspond with other parts of the body. Reflexology stimulates the lymph system which releases endorphins (the feel-good hormones which can help to relieve pain and reduce inflammation). It also helps to release toxins.

Ear Candling A very relaxing and soothing experience, ear candling removes excess wax and toxins from the ears. It improves hearing and irritation caused by excess wax production due to allergies.

Reiki  (Available at Uplifting Connections) A Japanese form of relaxation and stress relief. Reiki can help to relieve congestion and allows for a more restful sleep, which boosts the immune system. Feeling good this time of the year can really enhance our lives, allowing us the freedom to enjoy the outdoors and get some fresh air and vitamin D from the sun. Knowing how to minimize your allergy symptoms can help you get the most out of this wonderful time of year.

 

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Reflexology for the Entire Family

December 6, 2011 by Leave a Comment

Spring is usually the time of the year when people begin to look at their diets and try to eat healthy, and get outside to exercise. The warmer weather and longer days bring motivation to feel better and take better care of ourselves. Sometimes taking a different approach to the way we do this can bring new possibilities.

Reflexology (available with Rachelle at Uplifting Connections) is one way of doing this. Reflexology is an ancient art in which the feet mirror the entire body, mapping each area including vital organs, eyes, nose, spine—even the endocrine system. For example, the tips of your toes match the top of your head and your heels match the base of your spine.

A reflexologist can tell a lot about you by noticing areas of sensitivity in your feet. There are thousands of nerve endings stemming from every part of the body and ending at the soles of the feet. Methodically applying gentle pressure to reflex points in the hands and feet improves overall circulation and blood flow which results in pain reduction, relaxation, increased energy levels, and better health.

Most health problems today are caused by stress or disease, which is the body’s inability to handle everyday pressures of life. Families today are plagued with stress and children often bear much of it. In an effort to live a balanced life, children are rushed from school to child care to sports to dinner, then homework, baths, bed, and then up to do it all over again the next day. Reflexology can calm

overstressed small children as well as help overly-stimulated, highly sensitive children. Adding pressure to all the nerve endings helps to ground the entire nervous system. Children love reflexology and you cannot blame them.

A properly trained reflexologist can help relieve symptoms of many ailments including allergies, ADD, ADHD, diabetes, depression, IBS, fibromyalgia,

and so on. Trained reflexologists realize that it takes time for a physical issue to manifest itself, and therefore it may take time for the body to heal itself

using reflexology. Reflexology is non-invasive therapy only your hands and feet need be exposed. It is very relaxing and great for anyone at any age.

 

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Gift Books to Comfort, Delight and Inspire

December 6, 2011 by Leave a Comment

At Uplifting Connections we believe it’s all about the journey, and there is no better way to illuminate the path, spread the joy, or remember the love than with a book. Here are ten of our bestsellers, but we have shelves more of delicious reads for every person on your list as well as for yourself. What better way to wrap up the holidays than to snuggle up in new pajamas, with a mug of hot tea or cocoa, and the pages of a new book yet unturned! Come in and let us help you decide. We offer personal attention and free gift wrapping with every purchase.

 

#1 The Medium Next Door by Maureen Hancock, $14.95

Written by local spirit medium, Maureen Hancock, who does her Postcards from Heaven event once a week at Uplifting Connections, this has been our number one selling book since its release last spring. In this book and through her stories of her encounters with the otherworld as well as guided exercises at the conclusion of each chapter, Maureen offers the same comfort and wisdom she shares in her healing encounters and lectures about what is out there waiting for all who are open to life’s mysteries.

 

#2 A Juicy, Joyful Life by Linda Joy, Publisher, $21.97

Owner of Uplifting Connections, Ellie Bassick-Trovato is one of the remarkable women who shares her story in this collection of inspiration and hope. Readers looking to go beyond a passive reading experience and journey into the realms of self-discovery will not be disappointed. Each of the stories is followed by a journaling prompt page featuring three juicy questions to help the reader find their own sweetness in every day.

 

#3 The Everything Guide to Angels by Karen Paolino, $15.95 

Discover the wisdom and healing power of the angels, in this all inclusive guide written by local teacher and healer, Karen Paolino. Karen’s workshops at Uplifting are among our most popular, as she helps people get in touch with their own guardian angels. This book is another customer favorite that flies off the shelves and into the hearts of all who read it. 

 

#4 The Storm Before The Calm  by Neale Donald Walsch

Author Walsch is a modern day spiritual messenger whose words continue to touch the world in profound ways. With an early interest in religion and a deeply felt connection to spirituality, Neale spent the majority of his life thriving professionally, yet searching for spiritual meaning before beginning his now famous Conversations with God series of books which have been translated into 27 languages, touching millions of lives. Compelling and perfectly timed, his latest book, The Storm Before The Calm answers every question that is worth asking about December, 2012 and beyond.

 

#5 Pawprints in the Stars by Warren Hanson, $19.95

Written in the voice of the pet that has passed, this book brings peace and comfort as it celebrates the love and lessons learned. There is space for treasured photos and journal pages for favorite memories as well as a special ribbon to hold collar tags.

 

 

#6 Tickle Monster Laughter Kit by Josie Bissett, $34.95

Here’s everything you need to bring loveable Tickle Monster to life for children. Just slip your hands into the super-soft fluffy blue mitts and start reading and tickling. Finger holes in the mitts make it easy for you to turn pages and tickle, too. The result is joy, laughter and lifetime memories. The Tickle Monster Laughter Kit comes in a colorful re-useable gift box, and makes a wonderful gift for parents, grandparents and children for any occasion. Make memories that last a lifetime—here comes Tickle Monster!

 

#7 Boogie Monster by Josie Bissett, $39.95

Just in time for the holidays comes Boogie Monster, a loveable new character from Planet Boogie whose only mission in to inspire kids to dance, dance, dance! Boogie Monster teaches kids that there’s no right or wrong way to dance. In the process, kids build confidence and have fun exercising. This complete Dance Kit contains one Boogie Monster book, one pair of Boogie Legs Leggings, and one full-length Boogie Monster Boogie music CD by Recess Monkey. Everything’s packaged in a colorful reusable gift box.

 

#8 Winter Moon Rises by Scott Blum, $15.95

The third installment in Scott Blum’s best-selling series of enchanting novels, Winter Moon Rises continues where the semiautobiographical Waiting for Autumnleft off. This book follows Scott and his soul mate, Madisyn, as they prepare for the most profound adventure together: the journey of bringing their first child into this world. This metaphysical page-turner plunges to the deepest emotional and spiritual depths that contain hidden secrets of how our souls work with one another. This heartwarming adventure captures the imagination and reveals what it truly means to be a spiritual being having the ultimate human experience.

 

#9 Be Your Own Shaman by Deborah King, $22.95

Master healer and teacher Deborah King was a successful attorney in her 20’s when a diagnosis of caner sent her on a search for truth that radically changed her life. Leaving the corporate arena for the mysterious world of healers, sages and shamans, King mastered ancient and modern healing systems, ultimately developing a powerful technique of her own. This fascinating book takes you on a one-of-a-kind journey into the esoteric world of healing. You can develop your inner talents and become your own shaman, capable of healing whatever ails you and effecting change in someone else’s energy field and body.

 

#10 You Can Create an Exceptional Life by Louise Hay and Cheryl Richardson, $17.95

For countless people, the words of Louise Hay have served as a beacon, leading them out of the darkness of despair and into the light of a better life. Cheryl Richardson is one of the many individuals whom Louise has greatly influenced. She went on to become a best-selling author herself. As Louise and Cheryl engage in a series of empowering and intimate conversations, you’ll feel as if you’re simultaneously having lunch with your best friends and also attending a master class put on by two leaders of the self-empowerment movement.  

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The Perfect Gift for a Grieving Child or Adult

December 6, 2011 by Leave a Comment

For the child (or even adult) who is grieving, we recommend a combination of the book Waterbugs and Dragonflies: Explaining Death to Young Children with the gift of a dragonfly in some form.  The book is a beautifully illustrated story about waterbugs who are fearful about why sometimes one of their kind disappears up out of the water and never returns.  Then we follow the course of one who does leave the water and transforms into a dragonfly soaring through the air, awed by the beauty and breadth of the new world around him.  It is a story that brings comfort to many, as we below often fear what’s on the other side, and it comforts us to imagine our loved ones now exploring an even more beautiful place. 

Paired with a concrete representation of a dragonfly to hold dear – a dragonfly token to hold in their pocket, or a dragonfly necklace or bracelet or magnet or mug (all available at Uplifting Connections, of course!), this book will offer the reassurance that their loved one is okay. 

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The Book That Launched Uplifting Connections: Conversations with God by Neale Donald Walsch

December 6, 2011 by Leave a Comment

This book resonated so strongly in our lives that we all – my husband John, my stepdaughter Jen, and me – ended up with our own copies, dog-eared and well-loved. It shaped our experience with cancer and continues to shape my life to this day.

One of the central tenets of the book is that every thought, word, or act puts energy into the world – and that any of these at heart come from a sponsoring thought of love or fear. You can live in fear or live in love–unconditional love. Your focus determines your experience. Because of this book on our journey, we chose love.

When the time came to let go of John’s current incarnation, we knew he was going to a safe and loving place and we were able to let go in love and peace without fear. In honor of my husband and my father who passed away soon before John, and as a way to put powerful and perspective-changing resources like Conversations with God into people’s hands, I created Uplifting Connections – an oasis of wellness and positive energy where people can find books, services, and workshops to help them on their journeys.

 

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How to Prepare for and What to Expect from a Reading

December 6, 2011 by Leave a Comment

with Eileen Mallen-O’Brien and Cheryl Ceurvels

  •  Have questions ready (if you have any).
  • Let your Reader know if you are looking for something specific such as spirit communication with a specific person or insight on a job opportunity, particular life event, etc.
  • Give the reader the time to ‘tune in’ to spirit.
  • Be open to receiving the information that is offered.  Information comes more easily to the reader when you are relaxed and at ease.
  • Write down anything that you do not understand, as it may be pertinent in the coming weeks or months.
  • Answer questions openly and truthfully to help the reader interpret the information they are being shown.  (We do not ‘fish’ for information from you – promise!)
  • Your reading is not set in stone.  Life is variable and these messages are meant to give guidance and support.
  • Be open to your Highest & Best.
  • Expect guidance, inspiration, aha! moments, direction, and comfort.
  • Have fun!

When you are able to be open, you will receive a great reading filled with insight as the flow of energy between you, the reader, and your guides will be free and easy.  We want you to have an uplifting and comforting experience and to leave knowing you are loved and that you are never alone; your guides and angels surround you always.

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Mara Stoneware

December 6, 2011 by Leave a Comment

Distinctive mugs engraved and painted by hand. Fired at high temperature with lead-free glazes, microwave and dish-washer safe.

Filed Under: Gifts-Books - Recently Added

Lines We Carry

December 6, 2011 by Leave a Comment

CARD LINES

 

Quotables ~ Greeting cards that combine timeless quotations with minimalist design on 100% recycled paper.

 

 

Melissa Harris ~ Exquisite collection of greeting cards, mouse pads, magnets, oracle cards, and prints by famed artist, and clairvoyant Melissa Harris. With brilliantly colored artwork and written meditations, these are gifts that will encourage and celebrate the women you love.

 

Blue Mountain Art ~ For over 35 years, Blue Mountain Arts has been helping people communicate their deepest, most sincere thoughts and feelings about love, friendship, family, ideals, and dreams with their cards, books and gifts.

 

Compendium ~ Compendium creates warm and wonderful greeting cards that touch the heart and lift the spirits. The best-selling and popular Positively Green line was winner of “best card” at the prestigious LOUIE Awards.

 

Leanin’ Tree ~ Beautifully crafted greeting cards that feature original artwork by outstanding independent artists from across the country and around the world.

 

Tree-Free Greetings, Inc. ~ Save Trees, spread joy with earth-friendly cards.

 

JEWELRY

 

Basic Spirit ~ The finest quality lead free pewter in jewelry and gifts handcrafted in Nova Scotia, Canada.

 

 

Eye Candy for the Soul by Sally Jean ~ Vintage art collage charms and bracelets.

 

 

Praol’s Story Bracelets ~ Women helping women. Unique inspirational jewelry handcrafted by stay at home moms and low income singles to empower them to earn an income without the burden of day care expenses. Proudly made in the USA.

 

Davinci Beads ~ European style bead charms at an affordable price.

 

 

Seeds of Light, Inc. ~ Metaphysical crystal amulets and wands, reiki-charged and hand-crafted in the magical hills of North Carolina.

 

 

Deva Designs ~ Inspired products for the self-aware woman. Empowerment bracelets, goddess tokens, dragonfly pendants, Celtic pendulums and more.

 

 

Home Studio Arts ~ Scrabble tile art charms, one cuter than the next. Collect them all!

 

 

Earth’s Elements ~  Beautiful collections of sterling silver and semi-precious stones in necklaces, bracelets and earrings designed with classic styling and fashion flair.

 

Sea Glass Catch ~ One of a kind jewelry designs using authentic surf-tumbled sea glass pieces wrapped with wire, crystals and gemstones.

 

 

Howard’s ~ Always something special is the tagline of this fashion jewelry distributor.

 

 

Coyote Moon ~ ~ An exclusive, timeless jewelry collection handcrafted using the finest  semi-precious, natural and man-made materials from all over the world.

 

GIFTS/CANDLES/HOME DECOR LINES

 

Artecnica ~ The colorful stars that light up the windows at Uplifting Connections are a customer favorite. Many styles to choose from.

 

 

Dream Time ~ DreamTime’s collection of comfort tools and body care products are the soothing antidote to today’s stressful lifestyles. Choose migraine wraps, sinus soothers, midnight masks and more.

 

Aloha Bay Bright Lights ~ Eco palm wax candles in Chakra jars, Chakra votives, and Feng Shui votives.

 

 

Kikkerland ~ Another customer favorite, the solar powered rainbow maker with genuine Swarovski crystal.  Put it in a sunny window and watch your room fill with magical rainbows.

 

Crystal Journey ~ Our customers love the crystal journey reiki-charged candles in pillars and votives.

 

 

The Universe Knows ~ Thermal hoodies, bistro mugs, stainless steel drinkware, and beach totes with wisdom taglines to inspire strength, courage, passion and purpose.

 

Australian Natural Soapworks ~ Simple Scents Australia creates soaps using organic shea butter, palm oils, glycerin and other natural ingredients. Choose from fresh clean scents in a pretty palette of colors.

 

Joan Baker ~ Butterfly and dragonfly magnets to brighten your windows.

 

Glass Eye Studio ~ Stunning and affordable glass art for your home.

 

 

T.S. Pink Corp. ~ Soap rocks that look like earth’s minerals endowed with extracts of aloe, calendula, chamomile, comfrey, lavender, vitamin E, jojoba oil, olive oil, and almond oil.

 

Woodstock Percussions, Inc. ~  The original, precision-tuned, high-quality windchimes, including the new zenergy chime for chakra balancing.

 

Spooner Creek ~ Real art etched in clay with inspirational messages.

 

 

Jacob’s Musical Chimes ~ Precision tuned wind chimes made of solid aluminum pipes hung from whimsical shapes such as hummingbirds, dragonflies, fairies, butterflies,  and angels.

 

Hydra ~ 100% natural shower bursts transform your ordinary shower into an aromatherapy experience better than the spa!

 

Abbott ~ Garden stones, Buddhas, garden picks.

 

Thoughtful Angels and Friends ~ Angel and Little Critter Pins with special sentiments for special people.

 

 

Alexx, Inc. ~ Finders Keepers key holders in many decorative designs. Never lose your keys again.

 

 

Cathedral Art Metal ~ Distinctive, sentiment driven metal gifts at an affordable price. Visor clips, rear-view mirror dangles, pocket tokens, jewelry and more.

 

Primitives by Kathy ~ Wooden box signs in white and black. Reminders of heart felt emotions and life’s truths that will warm any home.

 

 

Kamibashi Asian Art String Dolls ~ A band of kooky characters that has been growing steadily since the initial 16 members made their debut in May, 2005. Handmade in Thailand, each String Doll has his or her own special power that is always positive and helpful. They are fun for the whole family and make the perfect gift for any occasion.

 

Nobunto, USA ~ Beautiful hand-painted taper candles from South Africa.

 

 

Rock, Paper, Scissors ~ Mini scented candles in reusable wooden boxes beautifully packaged. The perfect little “thinking of you” gift.

 

Nippon Kodo ~ Finest natural ingredients with state-of-art technology to create quality incense in the Japanese tradition that burn even and clean.

 

SPIRITUALITY/NEW AGE/ANGELS

 

Angel Star ~ Give your worries to the angels with Angel Star’s best selling worry stones, travel stones and archangel stones.

 

Brain Sync ~ Your brain made better. For over 20 years, Kelly Howell has collaborated with neuroscientists and biofeedback therapists to invent a sophisticated sound recording technique that makes Brain Sync programs more effective. The result is the most elegant and effective brainwave synchronization audio programs available in the world today.

 

Sounds True ~ Many voices. One journey.  Books and Audio teaching from visionary thinkers and authors to inspire and support your personal transformation and spiritual awakening.

 

Raiders of the Lost Art ~ Quality crystals from around the world for healing, health and happiness.

 

 

Milk & Honey, Inc. ~ Wishing Pots – write your wishes on a scroll of paper that hangs from the lid of this beautiful ceramic piece. Comes in a gift box with the story of wishing pots and instructions.

 

Precious Aromatherapy ~  Car fresheners with scented with essential oils.

 

Nature’s Alchemy ~ All Nature’s Alchemy high-quality botanical oils are scientifically tested for purity and contain no chemical solvents, added alcohol or other extenders. High quality pure oils at competitive prices.

 

Natural Patches of Vermont ~

 

 

Guided Scents ~ Divinely Guided aromatherapy co-created with Archangels, infused with crystals, reiki energy, and containing essential oils.

 

 

Kheop’s International ~ Kheop’s International  ~ Supplier of meaningful gifts, specifically targeted to inspire and unify people, regardless of race or religion, promote well being, or to simply connect to Mother Nature.

Filed Under: Gifts-Books - Lines We Carry

What Are You Focusing On?

December 6, 2011 by Leave a Comment

Ever since the explosive debut of The Secret (and, for many, way before that), people have been fascinated by the idea of the Law of Attraction and find themselves drawn to wanting to know more about how to use it. 

The idea is that we draw to us the things we focus on most, so why not choose our focus?  Stories of manifesting wonderful relationships, events, and more abound. 

We recommend any and all of Mike Dooley’s books (and, for a fantastic daily pick-me-up, sign up for his email Notes from the Universe at www.tut.com), as well as Esther and Jerry Hicks’ books, especially Ask and It Is Given.

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Do you know what brings you joy?

December 6, 2011 by Leave a Comment

Do you know what brings you joy?  Do you invite it into your life?  Sometimes all it takes is to focus on what brings you happiness – and a promise to yourself that you’ll do that thing at least 10 minutes a day (hopefully more!).  Pick up the book, A Juicy Joyful Life: Inspiration from Women Who Have Found the Sweetness in Every Day (co-authored by Uplifting Connections’ founder, Ellie Bassick-Trovato) to dig into stories that will uplift you with questions that will provoke you to find the ways to find the juiciness in your life.

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