MyHealthFinder Widget

In my opinion, your health is your greatest asset. You can guage your health and health risks by visiting the following health widget. The myhealthfinder widget provides personalized recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services Taskforce based on age and sex. 

Let me know if you've taken steps to improve your health in the comments below. Well wishes! :)

DIY Cleaning Products - I'm not buying regular bleach again!!!!

Ok, so the title seems a little angry. That's because my family has tightened the purse strings in the pursuit of our goal to be totally debt free (including the house). I'm angry because I've been spending money on cleaning items that are outrageously overpriced. I already make my own laundry detergent (read my recipe here).

Ask anyone who knows me and they'll tell you I'm a clean freak. I like things to be neat and tidy AND as germ free as possible. After researching several blogs and recipes, I decided to switch bleach products. I'm sure you're asking, "What the heck can you substitute for bleach?". My answer, "Pool shock powder." Yup. I bought a case of powdered pool shock a year ago and we even haven't put a dent into our supply.

My recipe is to mix a tablespoon of pool shock with a gallon of water as I need it. Beware that the chlorine gas dissipates relatively quickly, taking the effectiveness with it so only mix what you'll use within a month or so. Wal-Mart sales a six pack of pool shock cleaner for $18.97. It sounds like a hefty investment but using a tablespoon at a time in a tightly closed container, it'll last forever. Try buying a smaller pack, around $4 and let me know what you think.

Please note, I don't use this bleach mix for laundering my white clothes. I was in really hot water and hang dry in the sun.

Easy To Implement Weight Loss Tips/Tricks

I would like to include a small caveat before jumping into this post. I understand that some women, and men, have hormonal imbalances or medical issues that contributes to weight gain or complicates weight loss. This advice may not suit all people. After all, we're all different. We have different medical issues, life circumstances, etc.

I thought I'd jot down a couple of tips that have helped me maintain my high school weight after having two children. Please feel free to comment on what works for you. Wishing you all the best health! :-)

Keep your house clean. - A 150lb woman can burn 100 calories during 30 minutes of house cleaning. It is easier said than done, especially when you're a working mom like me, but you place priority on what is important...right?! Well your health is important. Besides, you'll be killing two birds with one stone...NICE!

Park far away from the store entrance. - It is so tempting to grab the nearest available parking spot near the entrance but why not make a couple extra steps and shed a few pounds? Burn 12 calories every time you park in the back of the parking lot. Now imagine you do this every time you park at work, church, the mall, etc.

Do not eat your child's leftovers. - Those small calories will slowly (but surely) enlarge your waist line. If you've already eaten, and are full, there is no need to go back to your child's plate and finish it off to avoid being wasteful. Here's a plan...put it in a tupperware for your little darling to devour at a later time or make him/her a smaller plate to reduce food waste.

Plan meals ahead of time. - Ever look up at the clock and it is 6pm but dinner is no where in sight? Most of us resort to fast food or prepackaged dinners which are loaded with sodium and fat. On Sunday, plan your meals, cook some soup and freeze it, make a casserole and place it in the fridge to be reheated at a later time. If your appetite changes and what you thought you wanted on Thursday doesn't sound appealing, switch it for your Friday or Saturday meals.

Buy smaller plates. - #PortionControl. If you see food left on your plate even though you are full, chances are you will be tempted to 'finish it'. I always seem to hear my mom or grandma's voice telling me, "Finish your food. There are kids starving in Africa!" However, we need to listen to our stomach telling us, we're full and that food can be eaten tomorrow for lunch. The average plate size in an American cabinet is 10-12 inches. On the other hand, the average plate size in other countries, like France for example, is 6-8 inches. It may not seem like a big difference but those added inches leads to added caloric consumption.

Food Documentaries

I absolutely loooooove to watch documentaries. They can be informative while being entertaining. While I don't place all my trust in what documentaries portray, they do offer some insight on the dangers of what we consume or the way we live. Pick and choose what you will implement on your life. For example, going vegan is not the only way to become healthy. We're all adults here, do what's best for you! Pop some non-GMO popcorn and enjoy! :)

• Forks Over Knives
• Food Inc.
• Food Matters
• Tapped
• FrankenSteer
• Back to Eden

These films may be found on YouTube or Netflix. Any other documentaries that you found to be informative?

Anti-Viral Immune Boosting Tea - Part Two

I absolutely love anything 'garlicky'. So it is no surprised that I researched the health benefits of eating this wonderful allium (member of the onion family).

Although mainstream science doesn't support its antiviral/antibacterial benefits, I know firsthand that garlic has helped myself and my children get rid of some nasty colds. Garlic by itself is a good but pair it with honey (anti-viral and anti-bacterial) and lemon (antioxidant rich) and you've got a surprisingly tasty cold remedy. Try this tea when you feel yourself coming down with a 'bug'. 

• Boil 5 organic garlic coves in 3 cups of distilled water for 10 minutes.
• Reduce heat and let it steep for 20 minutes.
• Add 1 tablespoon of raw honey and 1 tablespoon of organic lemon juice. 
• Let the concoction cool to a comfortable temperature, drink and enjoy!

Anti-Viral Immune Boosting Tea

My daughter recently came down with a cold so I searched my cabinets for herbs that have proven antiviral properties. I'm not a fan of commercial products currently on the shelves because they treat the symptoms but don't go to the root of the problem: a virus has overtaken your body as a result of a compromised immune system. So what can you do to help your family without breaking the bank? Try this anti-viral/immune boosting tea.

1 tablespoon dried lavender (antiviral)
1 tablespoon dried rosemary (antiviral)
1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice (loaded full of vitamin C)
1 tablespoon of raw honey (antioxidant and antibacterial)
1 cup of water

Place one cup of water in a small pot. Bring to a boil. Add herbs and lemon juice to the boiling water and allow to steep for five minutes. Strain herbs out and pour tea into a mug. Stir in honey and enjoy. Drink this tea three times per day.

Remember to drink at least 8 cups of water every day.

DISCLAIMER: The medicinal information provided on TotalLifeProsperity.org is intended for research purposes only. It is not meant to be used without qualified medical supervision. Herbs have powerful effects on the body and can cause serious harm or even death if used incorrectly. You should consult your health care provider before using herbs on yourself or on anyone else.

Charity Spotlight: Southeast Gwinnett Co-Op

Editor's note: Every month we will feature a charity that is significantly impacting the community. We aim to focus a "spotlight" on the good people are doing in hopes that it encourages every reader to do their part. Have a suggestion for a charity that is making a difference. Send an email to mytotallife@gmail.com.

I have personally volunteered for the Southewast Gwinnett Coop. They are passionate about helping those in need of food or financial assistance. Without hestitation, I recommend that you seek God and donate whatever you can to the SE Gwinnett Co-op.

Here's a brief description of what they do from their website (http://segwinnettcoop.org/wordpress/):

The SE Gwinnett Coop provides a central location where sponsoring churches can direct any or all assistance requests to in order for them to be properly handled. Our ministry will screen the recipients to ensure they are legally qualified to receive assistance and that they reside in the Snellville, Loganville and Grayson designated areas. In addition, any church member of a financially supporting church can request assistance regardless of their city or county of residence.

Raising disciplined children

I approach the subject of raising disciplined children as a teacher and student. I am constantly learning new parenting techniques and figuring out the best method to implement in my family. There is absolutely no elitist attitude here! I'll be the first to admit that I'll never arrive at the point of mastery of raising children. I hope to remain at a state of constant learning. It is my goal give you ideas about how to raise children that are well rounded, responsible members of society. This is not an all encompasing article on the subject of parenting.

The first rule is to place Jesus as the head of your life and the center of your family. If you do this, the Holy Spirit will give you all the instruction you will ever need to raise a healthy family. Review, or better yet--memorize, one of our articles entitled 7 Scriptures Every Parent Should Know. However, one of my favorite parenting scriptures is Proverbs 22:6 which reads, "Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it." What you teach them now will remain with them for the rest of their lives. Remain in the word constantly, actively apply it to your life on a daily basis, and maintain a consistent prayer life. 

Notice that in the previous paragraph, I emphasized constant, daily basis and consistent. This is not for dramatic affect. I'm trying to convey how important it is for you to be persistant in your parenting methods. You (and your spouse) must already be or earnestly strive to become unchanging. Your children look up to you and your spouse as moral compasses and behavioral examples. Exemplify the behavior you would like to see in your child and they will be sure to mimic the behavior. Set an example for today and your tomorrow will be that much easier.

Set a firm stance on the important stuff (ie., education, chores, etc.) and stick to it. If your children see that you are willing to bend the rules, they will, most likely, follow them. Plan a meeting with your family discussing all the rules and expectations that you have them. To ensure every topic is covered, sit down with your spouse to create an agenda and goals for the meeting. After the guidelines are established, for them to follow and consequences if they do not choose to follow.

I didn't place the term 'important stuff' in the preceding paragraph as a filler word. To become a good parent and maintain your sanity, it is imparative that you pick and choose your battles. Just because Little Johnny doesn't fold the bed sheets like you do does not mean he is not obeying you. Relax! Little mishaps do not have to turn into WWIII! Don't get into the mode of being so such a disciplinarian that you forget what is important: affirming what your child is doing right. Regularly praise them on accomplishments and you'd be surprised how far he'd/she'd go to repeat that positive behavior. Place little notes in their backpacks or the dresser to let them know how proud of them you are. Give them a big hug just because. Ask their opinion on some household decisions (dinner, weekend activities, etc.). Sit down for dinner at the table and ask how their day was, what their concerns are or talk about something out of the norm (world events, your childhood memories, etc.). The attention given to a child now is priceless to them.

There is no formula for raising disciplined children. Figure out what works for your child and your family. It is never too late. These simple suggestions will make a happier child, happier parent and happier family. 

Share your parenting tips in the comment section.

Prayer/Confession for Peace

This confession is for anyone who is experiencing stress, doubt, or fear about a situation in your life. Worry and fear is meditating. Switch that energy to meditating on the peace of God and promises he's made to you as his son/daughter.

In peace, I will lie down and sleep, for you alone, Lord, make me dwell in safety. You will keep me in perfect peace because I constantly meditate on your word and trust in you. In the world there will be adversity but I will be of good cheer because Jesus Christ has overcome the world. Since I am justified by faith, I have peace with God through my Lord Jesus Christ. I will not fret or have anxiety about anything; but in every thing by prayer and constant petition with thanksgiving, I will continually make my requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passes all understanding, shall keep my heart and mind through Christ Jesus.

Going Green! All Purpose Cleaner

About three months ago, I decided to switch my household chemical cleaners to homemade all-natural cleaners. Not only are they super cheap to make, they are non-toxic AND effective. One of my trustee work horse cleaners is the all-purpose spray. I use it throughout the house from kitchen to bathroom. If you decide to try it, please leave a comment below.

1/2 cup venegar
3 cups water
1/2 cup lemon juice
3 drops of castille soap 

Combine in a spray bottle (not reused from chemical cleaners...chemical residue may remain) and spray on countertops, bathrooms, sinks...you name it. If you're unsure how the cleaner will react to a perticular surface (think bronze, etc.) test a small hidden area.

FREE Educational Software For Your Child

Whether it is to entertain your child for a couple minutes while you cook or give him/her the extra boost they need in school, we believe Sheppard Software is an unparalleled website that offers educational lessons in game form. Sheppard Software is FREE and FUN...one adjective I love (FREE) and one adjectives my kids love (FUN)! They offer an array of subjects at every grade level. Visit Sheppard Software, try it out, and come back to share your thoughts.

Honey Aspirin Scrub Tutorial Video

It doesn't always take a lot of money to pamper yourself. Sometimes, household items, can do the job just fine. We've created a tutorial of how to make and use a honey aspirin scrub/mask that will make your skin feel soft and look radiant. Try it and give us your feedback!

7 Scriptures Every Parent Should Know

Luke 18:15-16 (AMP)

Now they were also bringing [even] babies to Him that He might touch them, and when the disciples noticed it, they reproved them. But Jesus called them [the parents] to Him, saying, Allow the little children to come to Me, and do not hinder them, for to such [as these] belongs the kingdom of God.

Joshua 24:15 (AMP)

..But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.

1 Timothy 3:4 (AMP)

He must manage his own household well, with all dignity keeping his children submissive...

Proverbs 22:6 (AMP)

Train up a child in the way he should go [and in keeping with his individual gift or bent], and when he is old he will not depart from it.

Psalm 127:3 (AMP)

Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward.

Ephesians 6:4 (AMP)

Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.

1 Corinthians 13:3-8 (AMP)

Even if I dole out all that I have [to the poor in providing] food, and if I surrender my body to be burned or in order that I may glory, but have not love (God’s love in me), I gain nothing. Love endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor boils over with jealousy, is not boastful or vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily. It is not conceited (arrogant and inflated with pride); it is not rude (unmannerly) and does not act unbecomingly. Love (God’s love in us) does not insist on its own rights or its own way, for it is not self-seeking; it is not touchy or fretful or resentful; it takes no account of the evil done to it [it pays no attention to a suffered wrong]. It does not rejoice at injustice and unrighteousness, but rejoices when right and truth prevail. Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person, its hopes are fadeless under all circumstances, and it endures everything [without weakening]. Love never fails [never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end]. As for prophecy (he gift of interpreting the divine will and purpose), it will be fulfilled and pass away; as for tongues, they will be destroyed and cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away [it will lose its value and be superseded by truth].

Don't be afraid to ask your Father...

One of my favorite scriptures is Philippians 4:6 which states, "Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God." AMP

I believe this passage is one of my favorites because it gives insight into a deeper knowledge that God really does care about what we desire or need. We often think that God is too big to care about our small problems or it makes us seem less humble to ask God for something. We couldn't be further from the truth!

Jesus himself said in Matthew 7:11, "If you then, evil as you are, know how to give good and advantageous gifts to your children, how much more will your Father Who is in heaven [perfect as He is] give good and advantageous things to those who keep on asking Him!" AMP 

Need more scriptures to get this firmly rooted in your soul? Let's look at Matthew 6:26, "Look at the birds of the air; they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father keeps feeding them. Are you not worth much more than they?" AMP

The first part of Philippians 4:6 says, "...do not worry...". That's a big one for most believers because we haven't cast our cares upon Him (1 Peter 5:7). We feel we have to work it out in our minds and then pray about our problems to God instead of telling our problems about God and resting in the finished work of Jesus Christ. It sounds easier than it is to do but we HAVE to stop worrying.

The second portion of the Scripture compels us to "petition" God for what we desire. Let me state this first: God is all seeing and all knowing. He knows what you need before you even position yourself to ask for it (Matt. 6:8). But it shows a great act of faith and humility on our part to ask God for what we need instead of trying to figure out a solution on our own. God our Father can provide for us infinitely better than we can provide for ourselves.

The third point made in Philippians 4:6 tells us to give thanks while we are praying. It may not seem technically correct to thank someone for something that isn't in your possession yet. However, if you fully understand that we as believers in Jesus Christ's death, burial, and resurrection are joint heirs with Christ, we know without a doubt that we have been blessed with everything we will ever need in this life (2 Peter 1:3 AMP).  

Which leads me to my final thought, we should continually make our requests known to God. Let me clarify, we repeatedly pray not because He didn't hear us the first time or because we're doubting He has done what we've asked for, but because it is through constant communication (prayer) that we obtain knowledge of him. Which in turn leads to our needs being met. Need further explanation? Read 2 Peter 1:3 backwards.  "Through the knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence, His divine power has bestowed upon us all things that is suited to life and godliness." (emphasis mine) 

Here's the formula: Don't worry about your situation; pray about your situation; give thanks to God before your situation is fully resolved; and finally, have constant communication with your Father.

Cleansing Cocktail Recipe

The Cleansing Cocktail is a fresh  vegetable juice that is full of vitamins and minerals. It will assist in cleaning out your liver, blood, and colon AND it tastes great! Drink this juice at least once a week and you'll definitely feel the benefits.

Note - The full affects of drinking vegetable and fruit juices does not come automatically. Obviously, you can not pile junk food on top of juices and expect to reap the benefits. Eat healthy and exercise regularly to get maximum results.

1/2 Beet
1 Carrot
1/2 Apple
1 tbsp Ginger

Juice all ingredients in a juicer and enjoy! If you only have a blender, chop all ingredients and add 1/2 cup of water to prevent it from being too think. Consume within 30 minutes of juicing for maximum nutrient absorption.

What does the bible say about long life?

It is my desire to live a long, happy, healthy life so that I may fulfill the work of the Kingdom. Many people believe that long life (80+ years) isn't for everyone. I firmly believe that a long life is God's best for all Christians. I do recognize that there are cases of untimely death but I do not believe that it is God's doing.

For example, we live in a fallen world where demonic forces are at work which can contribute to an early demise (1 Peter 5:8). Is it God's fault when someone willingly yields to evil and commits a murder? Absolutely not!
We also live in a world of natural laws which God placed here on earth during creation. For example, someone can't jump out of an airplane with no parachute, fall to their death, and the family blame God because he didn't suspend the law of gravity.
We have a lot to do with how long we live and the quality of life in which we live. It is not God's fault if someone eats a slab of bacon and dozen eggs for breakfast everyday, gaines excessive amounts of weight, never exercises, and dies from a heart attack. We do have a responsibility to keep up with the precious temple God has given us.

And then there are cases where it seems we have no answers to why believers die early...especially in the case of young children. Still the Scriptures are full of texts that point to God wanting his children to live, not only a long life, but a full life.

We've compiled a list of scriptures that support the idea that longevity can be obtained by every believer.

“… I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live; that you may love the Lord your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days …” Deuteronomy 30:19
 
“For by Me your days will be multiplied, and years of life will be added to you.” Proverbs 9:11

“You shall walk in all the ways which the Lord your God has commanded you, that you may live and that it may be well with you, and that you may prolong your days in the land which you shall possess.” Deuteronomy 5:33

“My son, do not forget My law, but let your heart keep My commands; for length of days and long life and peace they will add to you.” Proverbs 3:1

“Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be long upon the land which the Lord your God is giving you.” Exodus 20:12

Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and they who indulge in it shall eat the fruit of it [for death or life]. Proverbs 18:21

Healing Ministries we follow...and so should you!

Spreading the word that "God wants you to prosper...mind and body" is a message that we aim to share with the world. TotalLifeProsperity.org is one small ministry which is why we support other ministries that have an establised global reach and possess a similar mission. The ministries that are listed below teach the Word as it relates to healing, salvation, and deliverance. We watch them on television, read their books, listen to their podcasts, and sow into their ministries. Our family has been extremely blessed because we constantly take in the Word of God. We pray that they'll have an impact on you and your family's lives.

1 Thessalonians 5:11 (AMP)

Therefore encourage (admonish, exhort) one another and edify (strengthen and build up) one another, just as you are doing.

Andrew Wommack - www.awmi.net
Creflo Dollar - www.worldchangers.org
Bill Winston - www.billwinston.org
Marilyn Hickey - www.marilynandsarah.org
Kenneth & Gloria Copleand - www.kcm.org

Going Green! Homemade Laundry Detergent

We, as a society, are becoming increasingly aware of the household toxins that plague our homes. Toxins can pose a wide range of negative affects to our bodies some of which are suppressed immune systems, nausea or cancer. We firmly believe that it is imperative for the believer to take authority over all sicknesses and attacks but we have to do our due diligence. TotalLifeProsperity.org has made a shift, as of February of this year, to become more Green. This is no fad for us, it is a way of life. 

The first article in a new series called Going Green is making your own laundry detergent. Commercially produced laundry detergent can obtain many toxins, preservatives, and skin irritants. Not to mention...they are EXPENSIVE! Follow this super easy recipe to make your own laundry detergent. 

Note - I bought all items for less than $15 at Walmart and I project that it'll last me all year. Your costs may vary slightly depending on your location and size of family/usage. 

Items needed:

2/3 bar of soap (Fels Naptha or Ivory-for those with sensitive skin)

1 cup Arm & Hammer washing soda (not baking soda)

1 cup Borax powder
5 gallon bucket with lid
NOTE: All ingredients can be found in the laundry aisle of any supermarket.

Directions:
Place twelve cups of water in a large sauce pan. Turn the heat on the sauce pan to medium heat. Grate the bar soap, add to the warm water, stir until the bar soap is completely dissolved. Pour in the Arm & Hammer Washing Soda and the Borax powder and mix until the mixture is fully dissolved.  Remove the 'sauce' pan from the heat source. Add 3 gallons of water to the bucket and stir. After the soap settles for 24 hours, the laundry detergent may be used. Use 1/2 cup per load. The detergent may have a gelatinous consistency. Be sure to mix thoroughly after it has set. The consistency has no effect on its effectiveness.

Have any Green ideas? Email them to mytotallife@gmail.com and it may be featured in one of our articles!

Anti-Stress Confessions

It goes without saying that stress can affect you mentally and physically. With the hectic nature of most of our lives (kids, careers, etc.), controlling your stress level can become a daily battle. The Bible offers several scriptures to help you during these times. Confess these scriptures aloud whenever you are feeling overwhelmed.

Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you. 1 Peter 5:7

You (God) will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You. Isaiah 26:3 emphasis mine

Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Phillipians 4:6-7

Then all this assembly shall know that the Lord does not save with sword and spear, for the battle is the Lord's and He will give unto your hand.  1 Samuel 17:47

Take my yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light. Matthew 11:29-30

And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His promise. Romans 8:28

But You, O Lord are a shield for me, My glory and the One who lifts up my head. I cried to the Lord with my voice, and He heard me from His holy hill. Psalm 3:3-4

For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. Ephesians 6:12-13

The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name's sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Psalm 23

Cast thy burden upon the Lord, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved. Pslam 55:22

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Matthew 11:28

For he that is entered into his rest, he also hath ceased from his own works, as God did from his. Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief. For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. Hebrews 4:10-12

You are complete in Him

Today's post will be quick yet powerful. This scripture has been in my spirit and I thought I would share it with you. I pray this scripture will empower, enlighten and strengthen you.

For in Him (Christ) dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in Him (Christ), which is the head of all principality and power.

Colossians 2:9-10 Emphasis Mine

If at anytime you feel incomplete or hopeless, meditate on this scripture and insert 'I' where it states 'ye'. For example, "And I am complete in Him, which is the head of all principality and power." This is an awesome confession! You are complete in the very One who has defeated all principalities and powers. You are an overcomer, you are a more than conquerer, you are victorious, you are COMPLETE in HIM!