• Family Wellness,  Healthy Living

    The Science of Gratitude and how it can improve your health

    At this time of year, gratitude is a common topic.  I wanted to share some reflections on gratitude, and discuss how building this practice into your daily life can improve your life, health, and well-being. We are taught to say thank you when someone give us a gift, when a server brings us water. Some of these actions may take place so often that the true benefits are lost, the benefits really come when we take a moment to slow down and feel that gratitude, feel it in the heart, and connect with the person to whom you are expressing gratitude. The Science Science is showing that the benefits of…

  • Children's Health,  Family Wellness,  Healthy Living,  Herbal Wisdom

    Top benefits of Elderberry and why you should have it in your kitchen

    Elderberry (Sambucus nigra and Sambucus canadensis) is a small tree/shrub that is native to Europe and North America and it is power-packed with vitamins, minerals and immune-boosting properties. American elder can be found all along the Eastern United States, from Nova Scotia to Florida. Towards the end of summer, little white flowers bloom all over this beautiful shrub which then yield clusters of small purplish, black berries.  Benefits of Elderberry Elderberry has traditionally been used for a variety of ailments due to its ability to treat a stomachache, sinus congestion, diarrhea, constipation, rheumatism, and the common cold (1) This tiny berry contains anthocyanins (a compound with anti-oxidant properties), vitamins A and C and…