Well, I've tackled fungus, poo in the pool, and maddening mosquitoes. I think it's time now to introduce the Neo Hippie - Me!
What do I mean when I say Neo Hippie, you ask? Well, there are a number of definitions out there for neo hippies, just as the original hippie movement had. As you can tell by my photo, I'm not a stereo-typical hippie with the long braids, no make-up, bohemian dress, unshaven, birkenstocks, and reeking of patchouli. Well, you can't see my pits & legs or smell me, but trust me - I shave and I'm not fond of the patchouli smell! I don't want to protest with signs or march on the Capital - unless I have to! I believe there are lots of things we can do every day to promote peace and love and make a difference - you just won't see me wearing a tie-dyed t-shirt saying it. And there are those folks out there that still sport the old hippie look and ideals in their own ways - more power to you! That's just not my total definition of hippiedom. Being a neo hippie in my world is somewhat different. . . .
For me, my transition started with my diagnosis of celiac disease, which prohibits wheat, spelt, kamut, triticale, barley, and rye (and all derivatives of) forever in my diet - at least until they come up with a safe drug or solution for the disease. I was forced in 2000 to find my local health food store and get breads and flours that were gluten free, or free of the above mentioned grains/flours. That's when it happened! I saw a whole new world of healthier food choices, learned about my immune system, since celiac disease is an genetic, auto-immune problem, and found the wonders of supplements and alternative "treatments" for medical conditions and improving health! I was hooked!
I've learned so much that has totally transformed my lifestyle! That's a lot of what I'll be sharing here - things I've learned that have helped me and other stuff I find on my researching hunts. In fact, I'll be adding pages on specific subjects, and adding lots of links. So, for the official definition of what neo hippieism is for me: I'm into organic and all natural foods, the right vitamins and supplements, alternative medicines and treatments, exercise and fitness, body products that are not chemically dangerous, growing my own veggies and buying from local farmer's markets, recycling, reducing, and reusing, and fighting to keep the FDA & the government from taking away these choices. One day I plan to convert our cars to use less gas until I can buy newer ones that are the best green choice. We also dream of building a self sustaining home on a small acreage with a larger garden spot. As for spiritual enlightenment - I found that in the One True God and Creator of the Universe!
Will I ever be a true hippie throwback? - nah! But I do believe we can all make changes that will greatly improve our health, wealth, our world, and who we are in it all! I hope this blog will not only give great info on a healthy lifestyle, but will also encourage you to be the best you can be - and learn how to live that out every day.
As for personal growth, you can't beat my brother's blog - Living in the Meantimes! He's got some awesome insights and help to share. Check it out by a click on the links above or to the left.
As for me, well, you'll just have to keep tuning in right here. . . .
Here's to positive change for your best life - and mine!
Majetta
You are doing such a fantastic job of getting the word out about issues few of us contemplate! Thanks! Often, I have random thoughts about some of these issues, but never take the time to reseach the details. I deeply appreciate your thoroughness and dedication to providing a broad spectrum of perspective in the information you provide! Keep it up!
Posted by: Mark Hundley | July 20, 2008 at 07:50 AM