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- Mold and Oxalates: The Surprising Link That Could Be Affecting Your Health
The thing about mold illness, like so many of our chronic health concerns, is that it often takes a long time to be detected, and it rarely exists alone. Symptoms of mold exposure , including fatigue, brain fog, headaches, and digestive issues, can mirror the symptoms of other health conditions. And not everybody who is exposed to mold experiences symptoms – there are often other underlying issues that either make a person more sensitive to mold, exacerbate the problem, or both. One connection I wish more practitioners were making? The link between mold and oxalates. What are Oxalates? Oxalates are compounds found in several different kinds of plants, including certain fruits, vegetables, and legumes. Plants use oxalates for protection against viruses and bacteria, and to deter animals and insects. When we eat oxalate-containing plants, we’re also consuming oxalates. Most of us expel the majority of the oxalates we consume through our urine and stool, so we don’t really need to worry about them. However, some people may have an impaired ability to expel oxalates, or may experience a buildup or overload of oxalates . This is a problem because if not eliminated, oxalates bind to minerals including magnesium , calcium , and iron in the body, blocking their absorption. (1, 2) Once they’ve bound to minerals, they also create oxalic acids, which can lead to or contribute to various health concerns. The Mold and Oxalate Connection Mold and oxalates are connected in several ways. First, in addition to those found in plants, certain kinds of molds (including Aspergillus), fungi, and yeasts (including candida) can also produce oxalates. Especially if you’re already dealing with a buildup or a sensitivity, this may be contributing to your overall load. The biggest issue with mold and oxalates is that they both make it harder for the body to deal with the other. When oxalates build up in the body, they can impair immune system function and disrupt gut health, making us more susceptible to harm from mycotoxins (toxins created by certain kinds of mold) and to yeast overgrowth. Then, yeast and mold, as mentioned above, can produce more oxalates, creating a vicious cycle. Similarly, if you’re dealing with mold illness or mold sensitivity, your body’s natural detoxification system is already in overdrive, making it harder to clear oxalates. Candida also feeds on oxalates, as may certain fungal species. Both mold toxins and oxalates (particularly for those who are sensitive to them or who have existing imbalances or health conditions) can also trigger inflammation, immune system dysfunction, and gut issues. All of this is important to understand if you’re dealing with mold sensitivity OR oxalate sensitivity (or if you suspect you’re dealing with one or both of these). Why? Because it helps us untangle the root cause and triggers of your illness. Signs of Mold Sensitivity vs. Oxalate Sensitivity The signs of mold sensitivity and oxalate sensitivity (or oxalate buildup) may overlap – and some people may be experiencing both. A functional medicine practitioner can help you understand your symptom patterns and identify the likely triggers of your symptoms (and what to do next). Here are a few signs and symptoms of both. Symptoms of oxalate intolerance, sensitivity, or overload may include: Joint and/or muscle pain Fatigue Muscle twitching Mineral deficiencies even when eating a healthy diet Digestive issues including nausea or diarrhea; IBS Frequent headaches Burning sensation in the eyes, ears, mouth, or throat Brain fog; difficulty focusing Brittle bones Irregular heartbeat Kidney stones Fibromyalgia Symptoms of mold sensitivity or illness may include: Fatigue Weakness Brain fog; difficulty concentrating Digestive concerns including nausea, abdominal pain, and/or diarrhea Dizziness or vertigo Skin issues including rashes or itchiness Chronic headaches Respiratory issues including coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or sinus congestion Anxiety Depression, low mood, or mood swings How to Find Out If You’re Oxalate Sensitive With so many different factors that may contribute to symptoms like fatigue, headaches, brain fog, and joint pain, how do you know if excess oxalate levels are behind yours? I would definitely recommend working with a knowledgeable functional medicine practitioner who can take a closer look at your symptoms, risk factors, and health history. There are some specialized testing options, like an organic acid test (OAT), that look at markers of high oxalates as well as things like gut microbiome health, nutritional deficiencies, genetic markers that may predispose someone to oxalate issues or mold sensitivity, signs of mold illness, heavy metals, and more. A low oxalate diet trial can also help you to determine whether oxalates are causing problems for you. However, unlike many other elimination diets, moving straight into a very low oxalate diet can actually trigger a worsening of symptoms for those who do have a buildup (this is called oxalate dumping and is similar to a die-off reaction). This is another reason why working with a practitioner who can guide you through the process step-by-step may be helpful. Oxalate Intolerance Risk Factors There are a few conditions and factors that may make you more likely to experience an oxalate sensitivity, intolerance, or buildup. Gut health issues. This is one of the biggest risk factors for oxalate intolerance. Inflammation, leaky gut, an imbalanced gut microbiome (dysbiosis), SIBO, and other digestive issues can increase the likelihood of oxalate buildup and impaired nutrient absorption. Chronic or recent antibiotic use . Antibiotics are known to disrupt the gut microbiome, and can kill off certain kinds of bacteria that we rely on in order to degrade oxalates. In particular, antibiotics may kill a bacterial species called Oxalobacter formigenes , which plays a significant role in reducing the buildup of oxalates in the body. History of kidney problems or kidney stones. The majority of kidney stones are actually made up of oxalates. Those with a history of kidney stones or related kidney issues should likely avoid a high intake of dietary oxalates. (3) Low vitamin B6 or thiamine (vitamin B1) levels. Low levels of B6 and/or B1, as well as magnesium, can make it harder for the body to eliminate oxalates. Genetic factors. Certain gene variations may predispose some people to oxalate sensitivity. Keep in mind that these variations don’t guarantee that a person will have a problem with oxalates – our health outcomes are an interaction between our genes and our environment. Mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) or histamine intolerance. Oxalate intolerance often overlaps with histamine intolerance and/or mast cell issues. If you already know you’re dealing with histamine overload, but there seems to be more going on, oxalate buildup may also be worth looking into. High Oxalate Food List Here is a list of some of the most common foods that are high in oxalates. As you’ll see, most of these are generally healthy and packed with nutrients – remember, they’re all plant foods! Raw green leafy vegetables including spinach, kale, broccoli, kale, and swiss chard Beets Potatoes Beans Radishes Black pepper Nuts including almonds, peanuts, and cashews Soy products Berries Chocolate and cocoa powder Buckwheat Kiwi Sweet potatoes Leeks Not everyone should avoid high oxalate foods, and for those who are dealing with oxalate overload, ideally it’s only short term and these healthy foods can be reintroduced into your diet once the underlying issue has been resolved. Again, it’s not generally recommended to eliminate all high oxalate foods at once, as this sudden elimination can be hard on the body and cause a worsening of symptoms. What to Do Next If you’re experiencing oxalate sensitivity, it’s not enough to just reduce dietary oxalates. We want to know why your body isn’t clearing these compounds the way it should be. The cause may be related to mold in your environment or even in your diet, and/or there may be underlying gut or immune system issues to address. Here are a few things you can do to help tackle oxalate buildup and mold sensitivity: Look into specialized testing. Testing doesn’t tell us everything, but it can help to identify concerns around mold toxicity, oxalate overload, gut imbalances, and other related concerns. Steam your greens. Green leafy vegetables are among the biggest sources of dietary oxalates, but most of them are killed off when you steam, boil, or otherwise cook your vegetables. Take a probiotic. Probiotics can help to rebuild a balanced microbiome that is better equipped to fight off oxalates and mycotoxins, absorb nutrients, and keep the immune system working properly. Supplement with calcium and magnesium. This doesn’t necessarily get to the root of the problem, but while you’re working on healing, taking calcium and magnesium with meals may help to neutralize oxalates from the food you’re eating. (4) Supplement with B6. Vitamin B6 can help to reduce oxalate overload, and low levels of B6 may lead to increased oxalate sensitivity. Address environmental mold. Consider any sources of mold you may be exposed to on a regular basis, either at home, in your workplace, or even in your food and drinks . If mold exposure is contributing to your symptoms, the first step is to eliminate it or remove yourself from the source if possible. Cut out sugar. Mold and yeasts feed on sugar. Sugar can also disrupt your gut microbiome and overall health. Support liver health with herbs. We rely on the liver to detoxify, including from mycotoxins. Milk thistle and dandelion are two of my favorite herbs to support liver health. My supplement blend Protect incorporates milk thistle, B vitamins, and other key nutrients to support the body’s natural detox pathways. Sweat. Another way that we eliminate toxins and unwanted substances from the body is through sweating. Exercise and sauna sessions are two great choices! (5) Dr Will Cole
- How Venus Retrograde Can Help You Slow Down and Find Joy
Venus retrograde is one of the most profound cosmic cycles for introspection and reevaluation. Occurring approximately every 18 months, Venus stations retrograde for about 40 days, inviting us to slow down and take a deeper look at our relationships, values, and what truly brings us joy. Retrogrades in astrology symbolize a time of review and revision—when forward momentum is paused, and the universe nudges us to look inward and reconsider. When Venus retrogrades, its focus is always on relationships, but not just romantic ones—it extends to our relationship with ourselves, others, and our core values. This Venus retrograde journey spans the signs of Aries and Pisces, offering us a unique opportunity to explore themes of self-focus and collective empathy. Venus Retrograde in Aries: The Woman Warrior As Venus begins its retrograde in Aries, the energy shifts toward self-reflection, independence, and courage. Aries, ruled by Mars, is a sign of passion, action, and individuality. When Venus retrogrades here, we are called to reflect on what we want in relationships and life. Are we standing up for ourselves? Are we fighting for justice and fairness in our connections? Aries reminds us to channel the archetype of the woman warrior—a fearless, empowered individual who prioritizes authenticity and stands against injustice. This phase may bring up questions about personal boundaries, assertiveness, and whether we’ve been too self-sacrificing or too self-centered in our interactions. Venus in Aries challenges us to embrace our inner fire, but retrograde asks: Is that fire burning for the right reasons? Venus Retrograde in Pisces: Compassion in Action As Venus moves into Pisces during retrograde, the energy softens and becomes more introspective. Pisces, a sign of empathy, spirituality, and universal love, urges us to reconsider what compassion truly means. Have we been kind and understanding, not only to others but also to ourselves? Pisces represents collective upliftment and mercy. With Venus retrograde here, we’re invited to review how our values align with a greater good. Are we using our resources and energy to uplift others, or have we lost sight of the bigger picture in pursuit of personal desires? Pisces reminds us that true love isn’t just romantic—it’s spiritual and expansive, connecting us to the whole of humanity. This transition from Aries to Pisces highlights the shift from self-focus to collective empathy. It’s a journey from “What do I want?” to “How can we heal and grow together?” Exploring the Introverted Side of Each Zodiac Sign During Venus retrograde, each zodiac sign has an opportunity to explore its quieter, introspective side. Here’s how each sign can reflect and revise during this cosmic pause: ARIES Reflect on whether your independence has led to isolation. Are you allowing others to support you, or are you too focused on going it alone? TAURUS Review how your attachment to comfort and material stability might be limiting your emotional growth. Are you clinging to the familiar at the expense of deeper connection? GEMINI Reconsider how much of yourself you share. Are you spreading yourself too thin in relationships, or are you truly connecting on a meaningful level? CANCER Reflect on your emotional boundaries. Are you nurturing others so much that you’ve neglected your own needs? LEO Examine whether your desire for recognition is overshadowing your relationships. Are you allowing others to shine alongside you? VIRGO Reassess how your critical eye is affecting your connections. Are you being too hard on yourself or others, or are you offering constructive support? LIBRA Reflect on whether you’ve been prioritizing harmony over honesty. Are you sacrificing authenticity to keep the peace? SCORPIO Revisit how you handle trust and vulnerability. Are you holding onto grudges, or are you allowing true intimacy to flourish? SAGITTARIUS Reflect on your quest for freedom and adventure. Are you avoiding deeper commitments in fear of being tied down? CAPRICORN Review your work-life balance. Are you prioritizing career and ambition over personal relationships? AQUARIUS Reassess your detachment. Are you staying too distant emotionally to protect yourself, or can you let others see your softer side? PISCES Reflect on your boundaries in helping others. Are you giving so much that you’re losing yourself, or are you allowing compassion to flow both ways? Key Takeaways and Dates Venus retrograde is a cosmic reminder that love, relationships, and values are not static—they require ongoing reflection and adjustment. With this retrograde cycle moving from Aries to Pisces, we are challenged to balance self-empowerment with collective compassion. By reviewing the introverted aspects of our zodiac sign, we can deepen our understanding of ourselves and others, paving the way for growth, healing, and renewal in the realm of love and values. Take this retrograde as an opportunity to pause, reflect, and reconnect with your inner truth. The cosmos always offers second chances—especially when Venus is involved. March 1, 2025: Venus stations retrograde at 10°50′ Aries. March 27, 2025: Venus re-enters Pisces during its retrograde motion. April 12, 2025: Venus stations direct at 24°37′ Pisces. original article Goop author Jennifer Freed, astrologer
- What Is The Ayurvedic Diet For March?
Sunlight is steadily returning. A warm day or two could leave congestion and upper respiratory conditions in its wake. In the Spring, it's the warm days that make you sick. After fighting the cold all winter long, your body is unprepared for the sudden rise in temperature. These diet, lifestyle and herbal tips will help you stay healthy in March. Do you live in the Southern Hemisphere? You may need the Ayurvedic Diet for September instead. Climate March's weather is unpredictable. You might step out to find wind, rain, snow or sunshine - anything can happen. There's enough warmth and sunny days to spawn the big yearly melt of snow externally as fat "melts" internally. As rivers begin gushing with ice cold water, your chest and sinuses begin oozing with phlegm. Everything feels wet. The earth is soggy and fertile, rich with possibility. You may notice moisture and puffiness in your skin, even your forehead feels cool and moist. As hibernating animals come back to life, so should you. The longer and brighter days beckon you to enjoy the sunshine. Catch it when you can - heavy clouds might be on the horizon! Psychology The wateriness of March has emotional repercussions as well. Psychologically, March is a month of lamentation, sadness, grief and release of deep seated emotions. Breathing exercises ( pranayama ), such as bhastrika and kapalabhati can flush out heaviness from the chest. As your body liquefies what has been frozen solid all winter, dreams of cool water may surface in March. As a boy, I used to dream of a whale in the black deep, far below the surface of the water, every year in March. What is lurking in the depths of your subconscious? March In Your Body As your layer of winter fat begins to melt, it enriches your blood which congests your circulatory system. This shift leaves you vulnerable to Kapha disorders including respiratory congestion, loss of appetite, and sinus infection. Just as you catch common colds in Autumn, in the spring you catch 'common hots,' or more accurately 'damp hots.' That's because the congestion and excess of water attacks the lungs, leading to upper respiratory congestion, and even pneumonia. The symptoms of damp hots are equivalent to common colds in everything but the cause and remedy. The same virus attacks your weakened sinuses in both cases. However, with the 'damp hots', you'll feel more achy-ness like the flu, heaviness, and swollen lymph nodes. Notice how, as we race towards Spring in march, even on cool days you'll notice a warmth still emanates from the chest. Mucus congestion will be thick. To prevent the 'damp hots', avoid oily, rich and sweet foods whenever you feel sluggish, heaviness, or loss of appetite. Bitter greens like chicory, diuretics like celery, pungent spices such as cayenne, and mild laxatives like aloe vera can break up congestion, reduce fats in the blood, and drain excess water retention. With the spring thaw your body purges winter fat from your skin. These fats insulated your body from the cold all winter long. As your body prepares for warmer weather, the rapid release of fats thicken the blood, creating blood congestion. You might even notice your heart racing, or pressure and a squeezing sensation in the chest as congested blood puts a strain on circulation. Raw radishes , pickled garlic , and other sharp bitters improve your body's ability to metabolize these fats, and keep your blood flowing. The oiliness of the blood, together with stagnant circulation, make March altogether watery and damp. You might even notice your skin feeling cool and moist, a constant drip in the back of the throat, and pressure in the ear canal. The unpredictability of March further damages immunity in the lungs. Here in Asheville, North Carolina, we've experienced temperatures swings as wild as 50 degrees in a 24 hour period. Dress in layers as gusty winds compete with the warm midday sun. Use a neti pot often to keep the sinus cavity clear of any build-up. Fresh parsley , Celery , coriander , cumin , corn and other warm diuretics will help drain these excess fluids. With the brightness of March, the first fragile buds of the spring bloom are starting to appear, and with it a craving for tender young greens like watercress and arugula. These mustard greens offer sharp spicy heat, chlorophyll's energizing boost, and revitalizing bitter taste. Continue the liver cleansing you started in February. Kapha in March Kapha types are the most sensitive to the changes in March as they already tend toward excess water, mucus and congestion. Over the winter a buildup of fats and stagnant circulation solidify Kapha in the body. The rising temperatures "melt" this excess Kapha resulting in a sort of opening of the flood gates. Congestion, phlegmatic nausea, loss of appetite.and general malaise can all plague Kapha individuals this time of year. They should flush congestion and excess with warming spices, diuretics, diaphoretics and exercise. Light, bitter foods and herbs are useful in drying up the excess moisture. Pitta in March The liver continues working overtime in March as excess winter fat is metabolized. Pitta types may notice that they are especially hot under the collar due to liver congestion. This is a time of year when they should avoid fried food and alcohol to support their liver as much as possible. Sour and bitter herbs and foods aid in cleansing liver heat. Vata in March Vata types welcome the warmth and moisture of March. The erratic weather poses the greatest challenge for them. They should be sure to bring layers along as temperatures have the potential to shift widely. Ayurvedic Routine for March Early spring is a time to re-energize ( build prana ). Daily breathing practices ( pranayama ) such as kapalabhati, bhastrika and anulom vilom keep your head and lungs clear. Just as the sun is rising earlier, so should you. Shift your waking time to just before sunrise. Exercise is critical this time of year to shed your winter layer of fat and prevent congestion. Use your neti pot daily upon waking to encourage excess Kapha to flow out of the body. As moisture abounds, follow this Kapha pacifying routine. Start with dry brushing . Then, massage your body with Kapha pacifying massage oil . After rinsing off excess oil in the shower, rub vacha powder over your skin (just as you would baby powder) to revitalize your skin and support proper function of the lymphatic system. Avoid daytime naps as they are a sure fire way to increase Kapha. Continue to get to bed by 10pm, though this is the time of year when the body actually needs the least amount of rest. Ayurvedic Diet for March Continue with lighter foods in general throughout the entire spring. Favor pungent, bitter and astringent tastes. Start to bring in foods that build prana . Prana literally means your kinetic energy. Foods that increase prana include anything and everything green, but especially tender young greens and chlorophyll rich foods like spirulina. The most vital way to get prana is by foraging for wild spring ephemerals such as creasy greens and chickweed, popping up all over the forest. Add spirulina to your green juices. Vegetable juicing not only builds prana, but also aids in fat metabolism. Munch on arugula, lettuce, spinach, endive or sprouts. This is the best time of the year to enjoy salads. Aside from increasing prana, bitter greens have the added benefit of gently cleansing your liver. Top your meals with cilantro as a garnish. Cilantro is packed with prana, a great digestive and detoxicant. It pacifies all three doshas. Add black pepper, cinnamon, and ginger to your teas and cooking - this is the time of year to spice things up! Pungent spices like chili and cayenne serve open up your airways and flush excess Kapha out of the body. You may find yourself craving spicy corn based mexican food. Go for the vegetarian option as legumes and lighter proteins are back on the menu, sans sour cream. As always, Pitta types will want to be careful not to over do pungent spices. Brassicas like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and brussel sprouts also serve to balance Kapha. Vata types should cook these and add plenty of oil and digestive spices. Bitter artichoke hearts are in the thistle family, whose members are noted for being hepato protectants (they protect the liver). Artichoke hearts have a laxative effect, which can be helpful for springtime sluggish digestion. They are difficult to digest, so again Vata types will want to be sure to cook them up with oils like ghee and add some black pepper to help with digestion. Burdock or gobo root is a classic liver tonic popular for mild cleansing. You may have some growing in your backyard. Mildly pungent radishes are also perfect for march - notice how the suggested root vegetables keep getting lighter as you move towards spring. As the warm weather moves in, your body is naturally ready to lighten up. Parsley is an exceptional diuretic. Unlike other diuretics it allows for water excretion without the loss of electrolytes, a process known as aquaresis. Its hot and dry qualities are helpful for draining excess Kapha in the spring. Diaphoretics like dill expunge excess moisture from the body while tarragon is a hot bitter that thins and cleanses the blood. Herbs for March Spring is in the air! Prana building herbs like Holy Basil / Tulsi ensure you are able to breathe it in deeply. Tulsi is ideal for clearing excess Kapha from the respiratory tract and has the added benefit of gently kindling digestion (agni). Vital Step - Thyroid Tonic contains punarnava, an important herb for Kapha. Like the promise of spring, punarnava is known as "the one that renews." It balances and reduces Kapha; encouraging healthy weight while supporting liver, heart and kidney function. Prevent spring puffiness and water retention with diuretics like cumin, coriander and fennel tea . Cumin, coriander, fennel tea, affectionately nicknamed CCF, is renowned in Ayurveda for its detoxifying properties and digestive support. Hot bitters like fenugreek are perfectly made for reducing Kapha in March. Liver & Lymph Cleanse Tea addresses all your body's spring needs in one powerful, cleansing formula of bitters, blood movers & fat metabolizers to detoxify the liver and lymphatic system as well as flush the gallbladder. Shilajit jumpstarts your metabolism by promoting weight loss and healthy thyroid function. Control Cravings Food Freedom Tea contains Gymnema sylvestre, which abates sugar cravings and supports proper function of the pancreas to maintain healthy levels of blood sugar and insulin. Digestive bitters ward off sluggishness and enhance digestion. Bitters stimulate digestion, and cleanse the liver and blood of heavy fats. Just what your body needs to prevent springtime colds and allergies. Be sure your spring fever is one of excitement and not ill health by following these protocols. Catch the buzz by harnessing the power of nature's beneficence . orignal article Happy Belly With gratitude, Gabriela De Pasquale Holistic Health Coach Free discovery call here Gabriela De Pasquale Holistic health coach focused on empowering women around the world. She emphasizes the mind-body-soul connection for overall wellness through personalized plans that include healthy habits, exercise, stress management, and holistic practices. Gabriela aims to help women feel better and live fully, offering compassionate guidance throughout.
- Intuitive Astrology Forecast March 2025
March is one of the most transformative and pivotal months of 2025. We begin the month with Venus stationing retrograde, which brings a deep cycle of healing around our closest relationships and how we choose to give and receive love in our lives. While Venus Retrograde is powerful enough on its own, it is quickly followed by an ultra-potent Blood Moon Eclipse in the sign of Virgo. Arriving on March 14, this Blood Moon Eclipse carries some weight to it and could bring a sudden or unexpected event or ending. Whatever unfolds, the force of this Blood Moon will be peeling back some layers and creating room for transformation to unfold. Following the Eclipse, Mercury stations retrograde, joining Venus in the underworld. This will slow the unfolding of the Eclipse energies and require us to move slowly and with ease. While we may feel pushed into a certain direction or faced with a challenge to navigate, Mercury Retrograde wants us to listen to our intuition and to take our time when it comes to making long term decisions. Mercury’s Retrograde so close to the Eclipse is also a sign that we may need to backtrack and review the past in order to know the right way to move ahead. Reflecting on where we have been and paying attention to possible signs or messages we may have missed is a good way to use this energy. While some heavy and heated energies greet us in the first part of the month, the March Equinox on the 20th brings some fresh and inspiring energies to work with that can help to soften all we have been through. The March Equinox is also considered the start of the astrological new year, so celebrate the journey traveled and welcome in the fresh energies with a hopeful heart. The month comes to a close with another Eclipse on the 29th, this time it’s a Solar Eclipse in the sign of Aries. This Eclipse is a power point for setting intentions but it also brings the end of a bigger cycle we have been working with for the last 1.5 years. You can think of it as a graduation point that allows us to see the fullness of the journey we have traveled. We are also reaching another graduation point with Neptune moving into Aries for the first time since 1875! This marks the start of a new cycle but also the closing of one we have been working with since 2011. Neptune is the planet of hopes, dreams, and wishes, so we may find ourselves reflecting on those themes and how they have manifested or evolved in our lives since 2011. Overall, March is quite an intense month, and most of us may find it brings unsettling energies, upheaval, and maybe even a significant ending. Trusting the flow of the Universe will help us to feel a little more confident in what lies ahead. After all, the Universe never brings us anything we can’t handle. Let’s take a closer look into the key astrological dates for March 2025- March Astrology 2025 March 1- Venus Retrograde in Aries This is one of the most pivotal events of 2025 and will be influencing all of our closest relationships. Venus begins her descent into the underworld in the sign of Aries. Venus Retrograde in Aries can be a challenging dynamic to work with. We can feel ego wounds and emotional triggers rise up, especially when it comes to our relationships. We may find old relationship wounds or dynamics resurfacing that need our attention. Venus will eventually move into Pisces later in the month, but today kickstarts a cycle of deep self-care and reflection when it comes to our values, the giving and receiving of love, and our closest relationships. You can learn more about what to expect during Venus Retrograde here and get your horoscope here. March 3- Mercury in Aries Mercury, the planet of communication, moves into Aries, where it will also eventually descend into the underworld (i.e., go retrograde) later in the month. Mercury in Aries can give us a fiery spirit, especially when it comes to the way we communicate. We may find it easier to speak our truth and more willing to share our thoughts and opinions. We may have to be mindful of saying something we regret or oversharing. Conversations may also get a little more heated than they need to be, so try to approach delicate matters with this in mind. Mercury in Aries is however, a great time to start new projects and for inspiring entrepreneurial vision. March 11- Mercury Conjunct Venus Retrograde in Aries The messenger of the Gods, Mercury, aligns with Retrograde Venus, infusing their energies together. Here, Mercury imparts some wisdom to Venus, which will later be revealed to us as these two planets end their retrograde cycles in April. March 13- Sun Conjunct Saturn in Pisces This is one of the key astrological alignments that bring us into the depths of the Eclipse portal. The Sun and Saturn aligning indicates some challenges or difficulties that we need to face. Saturn is the Lord of Karma, so it seems some deep karmic lessons may come to the surface for us. Saturn is also considered our Master Teacher, so while we may find ourselves dealing with some challenges or harsh energy, we are also learning and growing too! March 14- Blood Moon Eclipse in Virgo The Blood Moon Eclipse is one of the most powerful astrological events of the year! Blood Moon Eclipses fast-track our timeline and bring us closer to closing a chapter in our lives. Sometimes, the closing of this chapter can be welcomed, but other times, we may struggle to let go. Because our timeline is sped up, we may not feel ready or equipped to handle what comes our way and this can create difficulties. It is always worthwhile remembering that Eclipses put us where we need to be, even if we can’t see it just yet. Falling in the sign of Virgo, we may notice issues coming up in relation to our health or day-to-day projects or routines. We may also feel challenged to listen to our inner wisdom and to trust our intuition even if we are not receiving support. March 15- Mercury Retrograde in Aries Mercury descends into the underworld, joining Venus. Mercury and Venus retrograde at the same time and so close to the Eclipse is definitely a challenging and powerful combination. It seems that whatever sudden endings or turns the Eclipse brings need time to marinate and evolve before we can really rush in and understand things. Move slowly and keep listening to your intuition, it will be your guide. Mercury will remain retrograde until April 7. March 19- Sun Conjunct Neptune in Pisces The Sun and Neptune align once a year, bringing spiritual wisdom, heightened dreams, and a deeper intuition. This is a soft energy that we can use to step into our creativity and to listen to our inner world with greater reverence. Nurturing our spiritual selves is also a powerful way to use this energy. Spend some time recharging your auric field and treating your body as a temple. March 20- Equinox/ Sun in Aries / Start of Astrological New Year Welcome to the start of the astrological new year! This will bring some welcomed fresh energy after all the heaviness of the Eclipses. We may feel a little lighter or a little more optimistic about what lies ahead. This is a powerful time to set intentions for the months ahead and to celebrate all you have been through. It’s time to leave the past in the past and cultivate new beginnings. March 22- Sun Conjunct Venus Retrograde in Aries (Venus Starpoint) This is a power day in the Venus Retrograde cycle and can bring some clarity and wisdom our way when it comes to whatever lessons this retrograde has been bringing up for us. We may have an ah-ha moment when it comes to a relationship in our lives, or we may suddenly have new realizations around how we have been choosing to give and receive love in our lives. March 24- Sun Conjunct Mercury Retrograde in Aries (Mercury Cazimi) This is a power day in the Mercury Retrograde cycle and can bring some clarity and wisdom when it comes to whatever messages and information Mercury has been trying to bring to our attention. We may experience a helpful conversation today or receive some intel that helps support us in some way. March 26- Venus Retrograde Conjunct Neptune in Pisces Some painful realizations when it comes to love and matters of the heart may crop up for us today. The wool may have been pulled over our eyes in the past, but now we are able to see the whole truth. This can be confronting, but will ultimately allow us to move forward with grace. Don’t be tempted to bury your head in the sand or allow things to continue in the same direction. As the saying goes- when we know better, we do better. This is the only way to break the cycle. March 27- Venus Retrograde in Pisces Retrograde Venus moves into the sign of Pisces, and this shift should bring some relief. Venus Retrograde in Pisces is a softer energy and will shift majority of our work inward. Challenging relationships may have come up for us, but now we are given a chance to catch our breath and work on harnessing self-love and self-care. Venus Retrograde helps to recalibrate our hearts and the giving and receiving of love in our lives, and at this stage of its journey, we are called to prioritize self-love and self-care. March 29- Solar Eclipse in Aries Continuing deeper into Eclipse Season, we have a Partial Solar Eclipse in the sign of Aries. This is the last Eclipse in a cycle we have been working with since July 2023, so while Solar Eclipses generally bring new openings and pathways, there is a sense of closure that also comes along with this Eclipse. Whatever lessons or journey the last Eclipse cycle has wanted to reveal to us has now been exposed, and we are able to see fully where we stand. The energies have come full circle and we can now move confidently ahead into a new chapter of our soul’s evolution. This Eclipse is definitely not as strong as the Blood Moon earlier in the month, but it should bring some welcomed fresher energies into the collective. March 29- Mercury Retrograde in Pisces Mercury now moves back into Pisces, where it will remain for the rest of the retrograde. Mercury retrograde in Pisces may have us feeling mentally cluttered or even scattered. We may find it hard to clear our minds and to let go of unnecessary mental chatter. Mercury Retrograde, especially in Pisces, is not a time to believe everything we think or hear. Instead, it’s an opportunity to get in touch with how we are truly feeling and to pay attention to the signs and clues the Universe is sending our way. Mercury is the messenger of the Gods, and in the underworld it is helping us to recognize and uncover hidden or lost messages that we may have forgotten or overlooked. Spending time in reflection, reviewing events of the past, and learning from those who have been there are all good ways to channel this energy. March 30- Neptune in Aries This brings a major shift in our collective consciousness! Neptune moving into Aries will be setting us up for a new cycle that will slowly begin kicking into gear as of today. While Neptune will dance back and forth between Aries and Pisces for a while, we are starting to get a taste of a new energy dynamic. Neptune has been in Pisces since 2011, so we will start to notice a closing to this chapter. Neptune is the planet of hopes, dreams, and wishes, so we may notice goals set in 2011 slowly dissipating or even evolving. As Neptune moves into Aries, the energy becomes a lot more headstrong and a lot more focused around who we are as individuals. We will feel an expanding need to be true to ourselves and to express more of our true nature. While this is a big shift, it will take time for all the energies to reveal themselves. Neptune will remain in Aries until October 2025, when it will retrograde back into Pisces until 2026. Thank you Tanaaz!!
- RECHARGING FOR SPRING ~ MARCH 2025
Now is the perfect time to offer essences that provide a pick-me-up, helping our bodies recharge and energize. The following essences uplift our spirits by dispelling inner darkness and opening the windows to joy and optimism. They inspire creativity, help us wake up, and warm our energy as we prepare for the blooming of spring. This vibrational boost can assist us in entering and engaging with the light, allowing us to weave our newfound winter wisdom into our lives and work. Chiming Bells - encouraging joy, peace and stability Chiming Bells flower essence is a tonic for the heart, an uplifting remedy for when we feel sad and discouraged and when there is little or no joy in our day-to-day existence. Its uplifting energy helps us open to a joyful experience of being alive, an experience that is our birthright. This flower essence reconnects us to our authentic thoughts and feelings and our life direction, helping us reestablish peace and stability at the physical level of our beings. Chiming Bells essence is a vibrational bridge to connect us with the Divine Mother, a natural and tangible source of support that is always available, no matter how lost we feel. As we allow the loving energy of the Divine Mother to penetrate and strengthen our hearts, we gain hope, courage, and a newfound sense of trust in our ability to find our way. Orange Calcite - uplifting, energizing, and warming Orange Calcite gem elixir is an excellent choice for those seeking more positivity, light, and energy in their lives. This uplifting elixir helps combat lethargy and chronic energy deficiencies, which can lead to emotional mood swings and a negative outlook on life. It refreshes tired attitudes and perspectives with a burst of bright, nourishing energy, allowing you to embrace a renewal of joy and a deeper connection with your inner sources of illumination. Prickly Wild Rose - renewing interest in life with openness and courage The essence of the Prickly Wild Rose encourages us to cultivate an open and courageous approach to life. This openness and faith foster a sense of calm and the understanding that we can continue to grow and our aspirations can become a reality. This supportive essence is invaluable when we feel hopeless, lack trust in ourselves or others, and tend to isolate ourselves during challenging times. It is especially beneficial for those who have lost interest in life due to perceived failures or missed opportunities. Prickly Wild Rose helps us release past difficulties, evaluate our challenges and accomplishments honestly, and face the future with renewed joy, optimism, and excitement. Labradorite - attracting and focusing healing and regenerative energy Labradorite gem elixir replenishes the energy of individuals who overwork themselves, lead a fast-paced lifestyle, and neglect their body's needs. This tendency to "burn the candle at both ends" can result in depleted energy reserves and a subsequently gloomy or heavy outlook on life. Labradorite is highly nourishing; it attracts, gathers, and assimilates the energetic nourishment of light into the body. Additionally, it increases our awareness of how we utilize our energy, promoting a more positive perspective on life. Goatsbeard - stimulating joy through optimism Goatsbeard flower essence helps us find a balance between seriousness and joy, teaching us to approach life with a lighter heart amidst the heaviness of life. Its gentle and soothing energy encourages us to gradually dial up the joy in our lives while toning down an overly serious outlook. In every moment, we can choose how we want to feel. We can focus on the positive aspects to discover contentment and joy or dwell on expectations of difficulty, which leads to stress, fear, and uncertainty. The ability to balance seriousness and joy amplifies our optimism for life. This essence is especially valuable for those seeking a better equilibrium between work and play and those who wish to incorporate more playfulness into their work. Brazilian Quartz - cleansing and revitalizing for clarity and alignment Brazilian Quartz gem elixir embodies the essence of cleansing white light, stimulating healing on all levels, particularly when we feel tired, exhausted, or low on energy. This elixir enhances our inner light by cleansing and energizing our physical and subtle bodies and chakras, aligning them with the Earth's natural vibrations. Often, we become so caught up in the details of our daily struggles that we forget about our inner radiance; however, the full power of our light is always present. Brazilian Quartz helps us recognize and release any blockages in our awareness, allowing us to experience and fully express our true luminous nature. Original article Alaskan Flowers
- March: Adopt holistic methods to achieve harmony in your life
Let's embark on a serene, nature-embracing, gratitude-filled journey for our mind, body, and soul ! 🌿 By integrating these holistic practices into your daily routine this March, you'll improve your well-being significantly. It's a time to cultivate the ability to reset, regroup, and recharge in a brief moment in time and space. Maintaining quick adaptability to changing situations, as well as meeting your basic needs, is crucial to sustaining yourself. With the planet's energy accelerating, being in tune with yourself is vital to maintaining calm and balance amidst upheaval. Number 3: March "In the positive polarity , the March number 3 represents the themes of creativity, nurturing, positive mindset, food, social connectivity and a can-do spirit. However, when turned negative , the number 3 is angry, worrying, depressed and potentially destructive to oneself or others. One of the characteristics of the 3 energy is that it can swing wildly on its emotional spectrum." by Nam Hari, expert in tantric numerology. "The Karma of number 3 is comparing yourself with others, low self-esteem. The Dharma of number 3 is equality, getting out of the black hole of self-attack in any form with a simple statement; such as " I have the right to exist", "I have the right to be happy", "the conclusion is: I am and I am well", etc. Whatever the best affirmation you can make about yourself, it is the Positive mind that will agree with it and reinforce it. The best affirmative formation is action, and even the smallest act can have great consequences. So, at this stage of the journey through the year, focus on what you “can” do rather than on what you think you cannot do. By doing what you can and telling yourself at the end of the day “today I did what I could” , you build in yourself the memory program of achievement and success. In addition you are confirming to the world that you exist, you have made yourself visible.” from Karam Kriya Element of the month: FIRE Much like the sun feeds energy to the earth, fire serves as a source of energy for the body. Fire embodies perception, illumination, and sight, with the eyes being the organ associated with fire. It symbolizes light, warmth, vitality, metabolism, and the ability to transform. We can use this energy to burn away negativity and create great things, or burn ourselves out with anger. By incorporating these holistic recommendations into your daily life this March, you can support your overall well-being and feel more in tune with your mind, body and spirit. As we move into the month of March, let’s prioritize practices that support our holistic well-being. Here are some suggestions to help you cultivate balance and rejuvenation: Self-care rituals Make time for self-care activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Because March is the fire element, keep yourself and your children well hydrated. Brewing a big cup of peppermint tea, adding honey and lemon , and then chilling it in the refrigerator is a good way to have a soothing drink on hand. Surprisingly, many bad decisions are due to a combination of dehydration and low blood sugar levels. The brain simply does not function properly under these conditions. Herbal foot bath with cinnamon and magnesium: Ingredients 1 cup magnesium flakes 1 teaspoon cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum, syn . C. zeylanicum) bark, ground 1 tablespoon herbal infusion oil Water to fill the footbath sink Directions Add all ingredients to a bowl. Mix the magnesium flakes, cinnamon and oil. Fill a footbath basin with hot water. Add ¼ cup of the foot soak mixture to water or a muslin bag and place the bag in the hot water. Immerse yourself in the warm and relaxing foot bath. Grab a book and enjoy the moment. It's best if you can soak for a good 20 minutes to allow for optimal absorption of all the benefits of this herbal foot bath. Once finished, dry your feet with a towel to remove water and excess oil and put on a comfortable pair of socks. *For sensitive skin, cinnamon can be irritating. To ensure you don't have a skin reaction, place the ingredients in a muslin bag rather than directly into the foot soak water. This will act as a buffer. Prioritize taking care of yourself every day to increase your happiness and live your best life! Find more tips for self-care and prosperity here Recommended meals for this month. The number 3 represents food, and now is a great time to take control of your eating habits! Having a healthy balance of green foods will help cleanse your liver, so enjoy your organic foods. Green salad with arugula, parsley, cilantro, avocado and Green Goddess dressing, celery juice with added apple and carrot is a great health boost. Request a discovery call and discover how to detoxify your liver! Connection with Nature Spend time outdoors and connect with nature. Take a leisurely walk in the park, breathe in the fresh air, and appreciate the beauty of the natural world around you. Nature has a calming effect on the mind and can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Read more about sacred trees here. Gratitude practice: Gratitude is a universally transformative practice. It often arises from a deep presence and acceptance of what is, and can be as simple as noticing what we have in this very moment. Appreciating where we are and what we have leaves space that invites good things to come, while opening awareness to the beauty that already enriches us. Prayer of Gratitude: All My Relationships There is a beautiful saying and prayer that comes from the language and tradition of the Lakota People: Mitákuye Oyás'iŋ . It translates to All Are Related or All My Relationships. It is a wonderful reminder of our interconnectedness here on Mother Earth and of the spirit within all beings. The Mystery of the World Aho Mitakuye Oyasin… All my relationships. I honor you in this circle of life with me today. I am grateful for this opportunity to acknowledge you in this prayer... To the Creator, for the supreme gift of life, I thank you. To the mineral nation that has built and maintained my bones and all the foundations of life experience, I give thanks. To the plant nation that sustains my organs and body and gives me healing herbs for illnesses, I thank you. " To the animal nation that feeds me with your own flesh and offers your loyal company on this path of life, I thank you. To the human nation that shares my path as a soul on the sacred wheel of Earthly life, I give thanks. To the nation of the Spirit who guides me invisibly through the ups and downs of life and for carrying the torch of light through the centuries. I thank you. To the Four Winds of Change and Growth, I give thanks. You are all my relatives, my kin, without whom I would not live. We are together in the circle of life, co-existing, co-dependent, co-creating our destiny. One, not more important than the other. One nation evolves from the other, and yet each is dependent on the one above and the one below. We are all part of the Great Mystery. Thank you for this life. Greeting to the Great Spirit , oil painting by Frithjof Schuon, 1963 Herbs to promote gratitude "PLANTS ARE PORTALS TO HEALTH AND WELL-BEING" The past, present and future are at the core of every moment of our lives. Their separation is an illusion we play out about ourselves and the world around us, but reconnecting with nature can restore us to wholeness. This multidimensional healing occurs through the senses of sight, taste, touch, smell and hearing. Michael Isted ROSEMARY – When we remember all that we have been given, rather than what we don’t have or have yet to achieve, we can tap into a deep well of gratitude. “Rosemary for remembrance” is a good phrase to help remember this timeless wisdom. REISHI :This uniquely revered mushroom teaches us the value of a spirit or calm and serene shen . Encouraging grounding and grounding, reishi helps us remember that herbs are gifts to be grateful for – harvesting just what we need when we find reishi mushrooms in abundance is a conscious gratitude practice, to be sure. GINKO : Mental clarity and focus give gratitude an edge, allowing you to mentally focus on everything you are grateful for and let go of worries and disappointments. Ginkgo aids in this process, promoting clear thinking and concentration amidst a "monkey mind." HAWTHORN – When the heart is balanced, it is better able to be in a state of unconditional appreciation and openness. Hawthorn does just this, calming and supporting both the physiological and emotional heart and opening it to gratitude. More information here MEDITATION FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH Amidst all the crazy vibes, why not add some calm to the everyday chaos? Dive into the soothing world of Sitali Pranayam for a quick mental makeover that will take you to the zen city. Remember, sometimes the simplest things bring the most brilliance! By incorporating these holistic practices into your daily routine this March, you can nourish your mind, body, and spirit, and create a sense of well-being that resonates throughout your life. Embrace these recommendations with an open heart and watch as they bring you closer to a state of balance and harmony. By incorporating these holistic practices into your daily routine this March, we can align ourselves with the cycles of nature. Let's make this month a zen-filled adventure, embracing nature and filled with gratitude for our mind, body and soul! 🌿💫 If you want to receive more medicine for the soul, body and mind, subscribe to receive updates. Find meal suggestions for the month of March here. With gratitude, Gabriela De Pasquale Holistic Health Coach Free discovery call here Gabriela De Pasquale Holistic health coach focused on empowering women around the world. She emphasizes the mind-body-soul connection for overall wellness through personalized plans that include healthy habits, exercise, stress management, and holistic practices. Gabriela aims to help women feel better and live fully, offering compassionate guidance throughout.