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WELCOME

Do you know how powerful you are… I mean, really powerful? If you’re on this site then you, most likely, recognize that you’re in need of healing – whether it’s healing of your mind, body or spirit.

Perhaps you aren’t sure where to start or you need some encouragement along the way.

One of the worst lies we’ve been told, is that we’re helpless. The systems of the world would have us believe that because of this “helplessness”, we must rely on the world to tell us how to live.

But what if there’s a better way? Perhaps you’ve found you need more than this world has to offer.

The truth is that our bodies are created with the ability to heal. Our cells are made to keep sickness and disease at bay. Our minds are made to produce thoughts that trigger healthy emotions. And, last but not least, our spirits are made to reflect the light of our Creator, as well as to connect with GOD and others.

For it is GOD who is the Ultimate Consultant for every healing journey!

Each one of us is on a healing journey. Together, we will discover solutions that, when applied, will help us get well, stay well, and live well.

As a son, or daughter of the Most High – You. Are. Powerful – much more powerful than you’ve been led to believe! This power comes directly from the Creator and it is He who guides us into all truth.

Are you ready to become pro-active in your own health and wellness? Are you ready to join me on this healing journey?

If you’ve answered, “yes”, then welcome and shalom to you!

“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” 3 John 1:2

NATURAL WAYS TO BOOST SEROTONIN

How are you doing? I mean, really, how are you doing? If you’ve noticed you’re leaning into a more depressive state, then please know that you’re not alone.

Modern living, with all the pressure that comes with it, has taken us further away from a health-centric lifestyle and driven us more towards tech, isolation, and unhealthy attempts to cope.

IMPORTANCE OF THE GUT-BRAIN AXIS

But before you run to an MD for an anti-depressant, let’s talk about the gut-brain axis.

Pubmed.gov states, “The gut-brain axis (GBA) consists of bidirectional communication between the central and the enteric nervous system, linking emotional and cognitive centers of the brain with peripheral intestinal functions.” (1)

A direct link exists between the health of the gut (often called the “second brain”) and our moods, brain function, and immune system.

Also, according to pubmed.gov, “The gut microbiota – the trillions of bacteria that reside within the gastrointestinal tract – has been found to not only be an essential component (of) immune and metabolic health, but also seems to influence development and diseases of the enteric and central nervous system, including motility disorders, behavioral disorders, neurodegenerative disease, cerebrovascular accidents, and neuroimmune-mediated disorders.” (2)

That’s a lot of (dis) orders and (dis) eases!

When gut bacteria are depleted, the brain suffers.

The food we eat affects physical health and mental and emotional health – more proof of the close connection between the gut and brain.

It’s also clear that certain thoughts, or emotions, affect gastro functions. Have you ever had a “gut feeling”? Well, you’re not the only one.

This appropriate name is no coincidence as we do “feel” with our guts. Stress responses, within the brain, signal hormones and neurotransmitters to go into action. They travel through the gut-brain axis, thus creating gut hypersensitivity.

Which of us hasn’t had “butterflies”, in our stomach, due to nervousness or lost our appetite during a time of grief? Even mainstream medicine admits that excessive worry, and anxiety, play a role in inflammatory bowel diseases and can cause stomach ulcers.

THE “FEEL GOOD” CHEMICAL

Up to 95% of the serotonin is made in the gut. Serotonin is popularly known as the “feel good” chemical.

Most prescription-strength anti-depressants attempt to control serotonin function within the brain. This, however, is an extremely short-sided approach since very little serotonin is produced within the brain.

Gut health is an integral part of brain health. It plays a role in mental and emotional health. This includes mood regulation. It should, at least, be considered when attempting to aid depression sufferers.

NATURAL WAYS TO BOOST SEROTONIN

Here are some suggestions for those interested in boosting serotonin production, naturally.

 – Increase B Vitamins. Vitamins B1, B3, B6, and B9 play a significant role in serotonin function. These B vitamins help convert tryptophan into serotonin. Think about how happy, and contented you feel, after a turkey (full of the amino acid, tryptophan) dinner. You can thank the tryptophan-boosted serotonin levels, and whoever made the meal, for that!

When B vitamin intake is reduced, serotonin function and availability decreases.

– Increase Folate intake. A clear connection exists between mood swings and a lack of folate. Depression is commonly seen in those with this deficiency. Studies have proven a strong correlation between folate deficiency and depression, among other mental symptoms.

Folic acid should be avoided as it is a synthetic form of folic acid.

Folate-rich foods include bananas, oranges, brussels sprouts, kidney beans, romaine lettuce, avocadoes, mustard greens, spinach asparagus, and beef liver.

– Increase Omega 3 fatty acid intake. Omega-3 fatty acids docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are essential to serotonin production. DHA is necessary for brain development and EPA assists with behavior and mood.

Dr. Parris M. Kidd, of the University of Berkeley, CA, states the following, “In double-blind, randomized, controlled trials, DHA and EPA combinations have been shown to benefit attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD), autism, dyspraxia, dyslexia, and aggression. For the affective disorders, meta-analyses confirm benefits in major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorder, with promising results in schizophrenia and initial benefit for borderline personality disorder.” (3)

When choosing an Omega 3 supplement, purchase “cold-pressed”. Products created using a heating method will produce free radicals in the body. This causes inflammation and a possible autoimmune response – doing more harm than good.

Omega 3 fatty acid-rich foods include mackerel, salmon, anchovies, flax seed, walnuts, chia seeds, pasture-raised eggs, spinach, brussels sprouts, meat and dairy from grass-fed animals.

– Exercise. Exercising, consistently, may play a role in serotonin production. According to livestrong.com, “One 2014 study in the European Journal of Psychology and Educational Studies found that even mild to moderate levels of exercise, two to three times a week, can reduce symptoms of depression, though the quantities of blood level serotonin tested in a small sample size of individuals were not found to be highly significant.” (4)

At the very least, moving our bodies helps keep us fit and feeling well.

– Spend time outdoors in nature and sunlight. Light therapy has become a popular way to help sufferers of Seasonal Affective disorder (SAD). It aids in Vitamin D production. When Vitamin D is low, serotonin levels will not be optimal. This can be applied to those who suffer from non-seasonal affective disorder, as well as depression.

If you’re interested in light therapy, safely expose yourself to the sun, or a light box, often.

– Get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation negatively impacts serotonin pathways. Likewise, serotonin plays a major role in maintaining proper sleep patterns. Getting a solid 8 hours, of sleep, every night ought to be the goal.

Proper sleep hygiene is a must for serotonin production, as well as for overall health.

– Work on Stellar Gut Health. One probiotic strain, Lactobacillus, increases serotonin. Supplementing with probiotics, and digestive enzymes, eating probiotic-laced foods, and avoiding pharmaceutical antibiotics help ensure that the number of good bacteria, in the gut, remains at an optimal level.

Click on this link to learn about natural antibiotics: https://shalomtotalwellness.com/2022/09/05/top-5-natural-antibiotics/

The healthier our guts are, the more able they will be to aid in serotonin production.

– Think positively! Serotonin levels affect moods and moods affect serotonin levels. This goes both ways. There is a direct link between the quality of our thought life and our moods. The more we allow negativity to invade our lives, the more our inner thought lives will suffer.

Meditate on things that fall into the Philippians 4:8 category and protect your eye and ear gates.

– Choose a Life of Shalom. Stress increases cortisol levels and decreases serotonin. It can’t always be avoided. Life tends to happen. This includes unpleasant things that are beyond our control. However, we can control how we choose to respond to those things.

Rather than living, in reaction, respond with shalom. We can roll our cares onto Yeshua (Jesus), trusting Him to walk us through all our days…the good, the bad, and the ugly.

“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Jesus in Matthew 11:28 (KJV)

Difficult seasons, of life, exist. Depression is real. But you can be the boss of your thoughts and feelings!

Boosting serotonin levels using natural methods does take a bit of purposefulness. However, it’s well worth the effort.

You’re well worth the effort AND more powerful than you may realize!

I pray this was encouraging to you. May GOD give you the wisdom, and guidance you need for your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual health.

Shalom to you,

“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” 3 John 1:2

Excerpts of this blog were taken from the book Shalom Total Wellness: Biblical Principles for Health & Healing by Dr. Sheli Ricci. Available on Amazon and barnesandnoble.com.

References:

  • Carabotti M, Scirocco A, Maselli MA, Severi C. The gut-brain axis: interactions between enteric microbiota, central and enteric nervous systems. Ann Gastroenterol. 2015 Apr-Jun;28(2):203-209. PMID: 25830558; PMCID: PMC4367209.
  • Strandwitz P. Neurotransmitter modulation by the gut microbiota. Brain Res. 2018;1693(Pt B):128-133. doi:10.1016/j.brainres.2018.03.015 [www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6005194]
  • Kidd PM. Omega-3 DHA and EPA for cognition, behavior, and mood: clinical findings and structural-functional synergies with cell membrane phospholipids. Altern Med Rev. 2007 Sep;12(3):207-27. 152 PMID: 18072818. [https://pubmed.ncbi.nml.nih.gov/18072818/]
  • [www.livestrong.com/article/22590-effects-exercise-serotonin-levels/]

4 Simple Ways to Stay Healthy During the Holidays

It’s November! The crispness of autumn invigorates the body as well as the spirit. Change is in the air!

The winds of autumn swirl the leaves and play on our senses.

The changing weather may prompt you to make personal changes, as well. Lean into these promptings.

Unfortunately, there is a downside to November, as well as December. This time of year, often comes with feelings of being overwhelmed attached to over committed schedules. Of course, we wouldn’t want to miss out or cause our loved ones any disappointment.

But where do we draw the line between healthy activities and unhealthy expectations?

Here are 4 Ways to Stay Healthy During the Holidays:

1) Listen to your body. If you are tired, then choose to rest. If you’re hungry, then don’t put off eating. Don’t wait until you’re thoroughly exhausted or worse – SICK – to begin meeting your own basic needs. You know yourself best. Listen when your body is trying to tell you something.

2) Don’t be afraid to say “no” from time to time. Don’t worry, “they” will get along just fine without you. Overextending yourself doesn’t help anyone.

3) Skip the sugar. I know…I know…there are so many treats that we only get this time of year. But you’ll pay for the indulgence later on. Say “yes” to your health by saying “no thank you” to sugar laden treats.

4) Stay in tune with your Creator by choosing to be JOYFUL always and by remaining in PRAYER. Stay close to the heart of GOD by remaining thankful.

Always be joyful. Pray regularly. In everything give thanks, for this is what God wants from you who are united with the Messiah Yeshua.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Consider the root of your celebrations and keep the main thing, the MAIN thing. Staying fervent in fellowship with your Creator will have a positive effect on all other relationships, keep you focused on what’s truly important and in the flow of shalom.

Happy Fall Y’all!!!

With much love and shalom to you,

SHALOM TOTAL WELLNESS BOOK IS OUT NOW!

Hooray! My first solo book is finally out, friends!

My goal, with Shalom Total Wellness: Biblical Principles for Health & Healing, was to make it accessible enough for someone completely new to natural health, but fresh enough for someone who has been into natural health for years.

As per the usual, I approach everything through the lens of biblical truth. You might be surprised to hear that the Bible has a lot to say on the topic of health and healing!

I also did something that I don’t do very often. I shared some of my personal journey with health struggles. Yes, I got vulnerable.

I’d be honored for you to consider reading Shalom Total Wellness: Biblical Principles for Health & Healing. It was listed as the #1 New Release in the Naturopathy category, and made the Best Seller list, on amazon! Currently, it is steadily remaining in the top 7 New Releases, for both kindle and paperback versions (in the Naturopathy category) on amazon. Thank you for being part of the journey!

Here’s where to find it:

Paperback version: https://www.amazon.com/Shalom-Total-Wellness-Biblical-Principles/dp/B0B28FPVCN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1938MQE6DZUIU&keywords=shalom+total+wellness&qid=1654104518&sprefix=%2Caps%2C71&sr=8-1

Kindle version: https://www.amazon.com/Shalom-Total-Wellness-Biblical-Principles-ebook/dp/B0B26KJ4ZK/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1654104518&sr=8-1

NOOK Book (eBook): https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/shalomtotal-wellness-dr-sheli-ricci/1141514657?ean=2940166341563

SCRIBD (eBook): https://www.scribd.com/book/575493614/ShalomTotal-Wellness-Biblical-Principles-for-Health-Healing

If you happen to pick up a copy, and feel led to leave a review, that would be wonderful. I’d love to hear how this book is being received!

Shalom to you,

Natural Health Approaches to Covid Related Illnesses

My initial opinion about the C-V virus was that it was all hype or perhaps even a hoax. My belief remains intact concerning the actual virus. It was a cold with respiratory symptoms, for most. Sadly, for a select few with pre-existing conditions, and/or serious Vitamin D deficiency, it proved more serious – even deadly for some. But for most, it was a mild illness that lasted a few days and then passed.

However, the actual “C-V 19” VIRUS is very different than the illness that many are experiencing now. If you’re wondering why some people have a harder time than others with this illness, why some have had “it” more than once, etc…this is due to the genetic transference that is being spread by those who are getting jabbed.

The virus is NOT the “vaccine”. I REPEAT: the virus is NOT the “vaccine”! These injections are not even working like typical vaccines do. These C-V injections are genetic modifiers that have not been tested and fully researched.

“Emergency Authorization” = EXPERIMENTAL AUTHORIZATION

What is happening now, with the C-V injections, IS the experiment. This means that it is very possible for some to receive saline injection (placebo), a heavier dosage, or lesser dosage than others.

Ingredients of each C-V injection includes at least 50 Billion sp*ke proteins, fetal cells. graphene oxide (think tiny razor blades within black goo), and 3 retroviruses (including HIV) to name a few. Sadly, just coming in contact with someone who has this in their system can cause genetic transference to the un-injected individual.

Vitamins can help strengthen your immune system, and must be a major part of your personal arsenal for prevention of C-V related illness. But merely stating that Vitamin D is always the answer is too simplistic. We’re not dealing with a regular flu, at this point. Remember, the “vaccine” is NOT the virus. Whether you end up getting vaccinated, or not, at some point you may end up in a potential genetic transference situation with close contact with someone who has been jabbed.

Thankfully, we are not left helpless in this trying time. There are several different natural substances that can help combat the genetic transference. If you doubt that something natural can help combat genetic transference from a bio-weapon, I understand. This doubt comes from a lack of understanding concerning how we were originally created.

We were created from the dust of the earth – by GOD. And it is the natural substances, from the earth, that our bodies recognize and respond best to. It does not take a pummeling from man-made chemicals or GMO injections to get us back into a state of health.

In the end, I know that most of us really are trying to do our best with what is a very difficult situation. Below, I have listed several natural substances that can help combat the genetic transference C-V.

DANDELION

GOD, in His infinite wisdom, placed within many of our backyards, something that we commonly refer to as a “weed”. This “weed” has within it the properties needed to UNDOCK sp*ke protein. Yes, DANDELION is your first line of defense against sp*ke protein!

This info is based on research that has found that common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) blocks the interaction between ACE2 receptors and sp*ke protein. We all have ACE2 receptors in our bodies and the sp*ke proteins are encoded to attach and attack them. This is why people who take statins, or medication that inhibits ACE2 receptors (many elderly), have had more serious reactions (even deadly sometimes) …bc if the natural ability of their ACE2 receptors is being inhibited then their immune system’s ability to fight off the sp*ike proteins is severely weakened.

See Link for More Evidence: Common dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) efficiently blocks the interaction between ACE2 cell surface receptor and SARS-CoV-2 spike protein D614, mutants D614G, N501Y, K417N and E484K in vitro | bioRxiv

SURAMIN (PINE NEEDLES)

Suramin is found in pine needles. According to Dr. Judi Mikovits, suramin is the antidote for the C-V “vaccine”. It works by inhibiting the coagulation (“clotting”) aspect as well as the inappropriate replication of DNA and RNA, in particular.

Pine needles also give an incredible boost of energy and immune support. The suggested mode of ingestion is via hot tea (5 grams of dried, or fresh, pine needles to one cup of water). Keep the used pine needles after your first cup to be used again a second time. If you are dealing with a strong genetic transference response to C-V, you could drink up to 3 to 6 cups a day. Use your own discernment.

As a precaution, only drink half a cup the first time in order to make sure that you don’t have any allergic reactions. For the most part, pine needle tea is safe for everyone but be wise and cautious until you know, for sure, how your body responds.

I do not recommend going out and harvesting your own pine needles, unless you really know what you are looking for, as some varieties are toxic. Once again, please do your own prayerful research on this topic, first.

*Caution: pregnant women are not encouraged to consume pine needle tea.

See Links for More Evidence:

100% Natural Non-GMO Organic Dried Pine Needle Tea | 1.09 lb. [500 grams] 1 Month Supply – Holisticgear

Structural basis for repurposing a 100-years-old drug suramin for treating COVID-19 | bioRxiv

STAR ANISE

For my Female Friends: Star Anise has within it something called shikimic acid. This acid helps to combat spike protein.

The spike protein, whether from the virus, or genetic transference from someone who’s been jabbed, tends to gravitate to, and attack the ovaries, in particular. This is why I recommend women check out star anise. It has hormonal properties that have been helpful in regards to C-V related menstrual irregularities. It can be used in tincture, hot tea or even powder form.

It does have a pretty strong flavor (like black licorice some say) but it may be worth pushing thru! Do not use Japanese star anise as it can be toxic. As always, I recommend you do your own research to decide if it is safe for you, first.

See Links for More Evidence:

Antidote for Spike Proteins & COVID19 Vaccination? Fennel, Star Anise, Shikimic acid, Pine Tree Needle Turpentine & NANO SOMA – Survive the News

Anise: Benefits, Side Effects, and Preparations (verywellhealth.com)

Star Anise Extract: Benefits, Side Effects & Dosage | BulkSupplements.com

QUININE

You may have heard of the positive effects of the drugs, hydrochloroquine (HCQ) and chloroquine (CQ) in relation to combatting C-V 19. They are both chemically derived versions of natural quinine. My approach is to go to the natural source.

Quinine is a powerful anti-viral and has been used to fight off malaria for years. It’s anti-inflammatory properties have lent to it’s favorable history with treating rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.

Studies show that HCQ/CQ have a synergistic effect on the cells to modulate immune activity to guide the immune system into an anti-viral state. HCQ/CQ have also been found to reduce the amount of time that one has C-V 19 as well as inhibits the potential for pneumonia to take hold.

Clinical trials have also shown that HCQ/CQ can reduce the risk of death among those who are hospitalized with C-V 19.

It goes without saying that quinine is a heavy hitter when it comes to combating C-V 19 related illness, and something highly worth checking into.

See Links for More Evidence:

Hydroxychloroquine/Chloroquine as Therapeutics for COVID-19: Truth under the Mystery (nih.gov)

20-Week Study of Clinical Outcomes of Over-the-Counter COVID-19 Prophylaxis and Treatment (nih.gov)

Quinine: The Tonic for COVID-19? – Penn Medicine

I pray this information is helpful to you. We do not operate in a spirit of fear but it is time to get educated so that you can be aware, and ready, in case your household gets hit. Be empowered by the fact that there are natural approaches to C-V19 and the genetic transference that is rapidly occurring. What we are experiencing is no surprise to our ABBA Father. He has provided a way for us!

This is not a complete protocol or medical advice. These are my opinions. Before making any decisions, please do your own prayerful research and seek the opinion of your natural healthcare professional.

Shalom!

“Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers.” 3 John 1:2

And again i say, rejoice!

Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice!” -Philippians 4:4

It can be difficult to live out the above verse, but only because we tend to think of joy as something that comes and goes according to the circumstances in our lives. The truth is that joy is always with us…but it is up to us to cultivate it.

I dont mean “fake it till you make it”. I also am not suggesting we live in some stick your head in the sand bubble that ignores the troubles we are going through.

No matter how dark, no matter how difficult..there is always something to rejoice about. Rejoice even in the simplest of things: and again I say, Rejoice!

Be brave. One of the bravest things you can do, when living in a world full of bad news, is not only to remain prayerful but to remain joyful…and hopeful. Anyone can report the (bad) news but a true intercessor will go a step further and see God’s Hand working in, and thru, all things.

“I have said these things to you so that, united with me, you may have shalom. In the world, you have tsuris (persecution, tribulation, trouble). But be brave! I have conquered the world!” – -John 16:33 (CJV)

Joy is a Weapon. We ought to remain joyful as a sign that we are trusting in GOD’s Hand and plan. Not only that but we should remain joyful because joy is a spiritual weapon. Have you ever thought of it in that way?

1 Kings 1:40 says, “And all the people came up after him, and the people piped with pipes, and rejoiced with great joy, so that the earth rent with the sound of them.”

The hebrew word for ‘rent’, used in the above passage, is “baqa”, meaning: to cleave; generally, to rend, break, rip or open — make a breach, break forth (into, out, in pieces, through, up), be ready to burst, cleave (asunder), cut out, divide, hatch, rend (asunder), rip up, tear, win (see https://biblehub.com/hebrew/1234.htm).

Can you imagine making a sound that was so loud…so powerful….SO JOYFUL that the ground, nearby, responded by bursting open? That’s supernatural!

Making a joyful noise sends a message out into the atmosphere – both physical and spiritual – that says you are not afraid, that you are placing your hope in the King of all Kings, and that you will not give into despair or be overtaken by doubt!

Joy is a Reminder. Making a joyful noise is a powerful reminder, to yourself, of the Kingdom you belong to.

It is a reminder to the enemy that we belong to GOD Almighty and that we will not give in to his (the enemy’s) schemes.

It is also a great way to worship GOD…reminding Him that we love and trust Him!

Psalm 100 says:

Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.

Serve the Lord with gladness: come before his presence with singing.

Know ye that the Lord he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name.

For the Lord is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.”

During these uncertain times, one thing is certain – we serve a mighty GOD and He is worthy to be praised. Make joy a lifestyle rather than an occasional moment. Join in the band of warring worshipers by making a joyful noise unto the LORD. Together, let’s see if we can rend the earth!

Shalom to you all– Dr. Karen Michelle Ricci, ND

Why “Shalom”?

Shalom is more than just a general greeting or a well-wishing of “peace”. 

Strong’s Concordance #7965 states that “Shalom” means completeness, wholeness, health, peace, welfare, safety, soundness, tranquility, prosperity, perfectness, fullness, rest, harmony, the absence of agitation or discord. 

Shalom comes from the root verb “shalom” meaning to be complete, perfect and full. 

So when we say “shalom” to someone we are breathing life into them, speaking peace and health over them…and blessing them with wholeness in every way that Yahweh can bring wholeness to us: in a health sense, an emotional sense, a financial sense, a relational sense, a spiritual sense…everything.

And what IS Naturopathy? 

“Naturopathy is a philosophy which encompasses a view of life, a model for living a full life. The word naturopathy is a Latin-Greek hybrid which can be defined as ‘being close to or benefiting from nature.’” — Stewart Mitchell, Naturopathy: Understanding the Healing Power of Nature

Welcome!

If there’s one thing most of us have in common it’s this: we are busy. That’s life, right? I get it. I really do.

Something else we have in common? The need for peace. I get that, too. In this hustle and bustle world, it’s easy to ignore our own needs. Sometimes we even forget who we are.

Shalom Total Wellness is about providing solutions to your mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual needs. It’s about providing a safe place to be uniquely, YOU! Not all healing journeys look the same and neither do the solutions to health and wellness.

I’d be honored for you to peruse this site. Make yourself at home and enter into Shalom Total Wellness!