July 2 , 2012

Hi {!firstname_fix}

This last week has been a hard one. The fires in CO and some profound losses with one of our leadership team kinda touched all of us in the leadership of the community. We have worked together for a long time and it seems as if this time is a time of a lot of change. Mostly we are fine with it. We support one another, we do the food, we stay present to the community and we hold the purpose. This week, I think we have shed tears together, and held onto our deep conviction that our lives are guided and more will be revealed.

These classes will begin Wednesday, July 4, 2012. Please click on the name of the class and it will take you to the registration page:

Using Radiant Resources (1 week) - is a free orientation for those of you who are brand new and would like to find your way around town. Come sit on the top of our double-decker bus for a guided tour. And even if you are not brand new, this is a really fun class to reconnect with all the treats of the community. The class is done by email. You do not need to be at the computer at any particular time. We adjust for people being from all over the world.


Radiant Play (2 weeks) - CEU - will talk about the extraordinary impact playing has on the healing of our brains. Sugar-sensitive people NEED play and often we don't get to it, or we don't know how. This class is FUN and will teach both the biochemistry of play and the art of it. If you haven't taken this class, sign up. It is a wonderful part of our healing package.


These classes will begin Wednesday, July 11, 2012. Please click on the name of the class and it will take you to the registration page:

Step 1

 Step 1 (2 weeks) - is our foundation class to get you started. Learn all four parts of step 1 in a structured way. Learn how to progress through them with enjoyment. Let us support getting your program off to a fabulous start. We are running a special and reducing the price and the time for this class. It will now be a one week intensive. Let's see if it suits you better.


Step 3

 Step 3 (2 weeks) - is one of our core classes. This is a skill-based class. If you want to learn the baby steps of a successful step 3, come join us. This class is ALWAYS fun.


Brain Chemistry Serotonin (2 weeks) - CEU - is the other of our most popular classes. It helps you make sense of why the potato works, why you have a problem in the winter and how Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can play into this. If you munch in your mind, if you are depressed or edgy or feel sad, this is the class for you.


The class schedule is online. Click here to see what is planned.

A number of you have asked me how the classes work. Check the class list page for more information on this. And please go read the questions and answers before you write to me. If you have trouble getting through the process, write the tech forum.

Be sure to visit our Radiant Recovery website and Community Forum regularly.

Warmly,
Kathleen

**********************************************************************

** Quote From Kathleen **


Your body will start to cooperate. It will give you information earlier, more efficiently and more joyfully. You and your body will become partners in your recovery.

**********************************************************************

** Testimonial of the Week **


Sorry you're feeling unsettled.

You said:

"I do feel that using sugar over the years has stunted my growth in learning how to live well with sadness/ambiguity/unfulfilled expectations/pain etc."

Wow, this is something I can really relate to. I think that's what a lot of my step 7 (when I get there) will be about - learning what to do with the big feelings, now that my sugar feelings are leaving me. I've also struggled with figuring out how to be happy with what I'm doing and not be dragged down by negativity, without totally shutting out my friends who still have problems (that I know could be caused by SS).

There are times when I feel completely unequipped to listen to the big feelings. But your reflection here and the way you're talking about it sounds like "emotional maturity" to me (something I loved talking about at Ranch). So glad to hear your food is steady and supporting you. You are doing a great job!

Dodi

**********************************************************************

** Radiant Ambassadors **




Did you know that you can get free Radiant Recovery business cards from the store?

Here is what John did with one of his cards recently:

"After reading the newsletter I was reminded that recently I handed out an RR card to someone. She mentioned during a recovery meeting that she had a real problem with sugar so after the meeting I mentioned how I do this program that helps me with my sugar addiction. She wanted to know more so I gave her a card.

It feels so good to be able to talk about RR with someone outside the community. Sometimes I feel like I have to keep it a secret, like nobody will understand unless they're actually in RR."


How fantastic is that!

Selena
selenas@blueyonder.co.uk

Come join us if you are excited about spreading the news.

**********************************************************************

** How I Found Radiant Recovery **




Hi everyone! I'm Lisa, and I live in Flowood Mississippi. I'm here to try to finally break my sugar addiction, so I can move on to a healthier life, and lose weight.

I discovered the program by finding The Sugar Addict's Total Recovery Program in my library. I read the first couple of chapters and it totally makes sense to me. So right now I am exploring the program, and working with the first step. I'm a vegetarian, so getting a lot of protein is a bit of a challenge for me. :o)

Lisa D

**********************************************************************

** Radiant Recovery® Store **


David manages the Radiant Recovery® Store. He is also Kathleen's oldest son.

Here is a note Emily wrote about the children's fish oil capsules
Thanks! Alex wanted more information. She really wanted to know why she should take it, so I read her most of the article in the resource center and then she ASKED to take a 2nd capsule today. She took one in juice and another I just broke onto a spoon and she downed it and then took a sip of water. She said that way was better. Knowledge is power! If I'd suggested she take it straight yesterday, I'd have been shot down, but with information she was willing to try. (smile) She said she wanted to take it because it could "help my brain be smart and help my allergies." Laura said "You mean this could make me not have scratchy skin?!" Emily


I love our fish oil products. I love working with Nordic Naturals to bring them to you. And I see that Kathleen is giving them to the dogs and they sure have shiny coats! One other tip for traveling. If you are concerned about carrying oil with you and possibly spilling it, go ahead and get the individual packs.


I thought you might be interested to hear what research is being done with Nordic Naturals oil:

  • Reduction of inflammation and back pain
  • Developmental language and learning
  • Anxiety
  • Depression
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Alzheimer's
  • Drug Relapse prevention
  • Exercise Tolerance Glucose Uptake and insulin action
Here is the URl if you want to see more:

http://www.nordicnaturals.com/en/About_Us_portal/Nordic_Naturals_Original_Research_Consumer/850

If you haven't been to the store for a while, how about just coming over and browsing. You will be thrilled to see all the changes!

Please send questions and suggestions. I love hearing from you and truly want to help you do your program better.

**********************************************************************

** Radiant Kitchen **


This is a recipe I invented. I love that you can bake it all in one dish.

Baked Tilapia, Broccoli and Potatoes

  • 4 Potatoes, use your favorite type
  • 2 T. olive oil
  • 4 Tilapia fillets
  • 16 oz. package of frozen broccoli florets
  • 2 T. mayonnaise
  • 1 tsp. salt (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 1-2 tsp. onion powder
  • paprika or cayenne, as needed
Preheat oven to 350. Scrub potatoes well and cut potatoes into chunks. Place into a 9 x 13 baking dish (I use disposable aluminum pans) and and toss with olive oil. Bake for 70 minutes. Take dish out of oven and place broccoli over the potatoes. Mix mayonnaise and spices (except paprika) and spread over the tilapia. Place on top of the broccoli. Sprinkle with paprika or cayenne. Cover and bake for 40 minutes

For more great program-friendly recipes, check out our cookbook in the store and visit our online Radiant Recipes site.


**********************************************************************

** Radiant YLD **


Reading through all of the information on the home page is what convinced me to join YLD. I read everything and then bought all of the books. I am an avid reader and I just couldn't soak up enough information. I felt like I had finally discovered the answer that I had been searching for. The site is easy to follow and contains a wealth of information. It's a great refresher site when I feel like my steps are getting a little "mushy". It's awesome!

Carol
Last chat we spent processing some of the discussion from the forum about being fat. It was wonderful to talk in real time. What a crew you are!! I love working with you.

If you would like to join, come find us here

**********************************************************************

** Radiant Conversations **


We have a new portal for the Conversations program. Come check it out here.

Is there part of you that is ready to look at what is underneath all of what we are doing here in Radiant Recovery? Come to *conversations* - that is what we talk about.

If you would like to join us, you can do that below.

Join YLD Weight Loss Now: click here - $99

Join Conversations 2011 Now: click here - $99

Join Both YLD and Conversations Now: click here - $149

Current YLD members wish to Upgrade to Both, click here - $49

Current YLD members who wish to Transfer to Conversations 2011 Only can do so for a $14.99 admin fee: click here

If you are not a member, come and join us if you want to be a part of the latest and greatest or just have some plain ol' fun!

**********************************************************************

** Our Online Groups **


On Radiant Fitness we talk about how doing the food can support our fitness program and vice versa. Some favorite topics are what to eat when doing intensive exercise when all that's out there commercially are sugar filled products. We also talk about what to eat before and after morning workouts, and what to do for those folks whose training program requires a twice-a-day workout. We just had a great thread on the necessity of sports drinks and how doing the food is better.

We have runners, walkers, bikers, dancers, aerobicizers, yogis, and many more types of exercise enthusiasts on the list. One of the neat things is people who are recovering from exercise addiction who are learning how to work exercise back in their life in a healthy way. If any of this fits you, well, come on over and join in

Or come to the group page to find the one that will best support your program: http://www.radiantrecovery.com/list_serves.htm


**********************************************************************

**Sometimes It's the Little Things **
Kathleen DesMaisons, Ph.D.



We ask people what has changed since they started the program. I think you will love this list as much as I do.

  • I don't have to go into the handicap stall in the public restrooms.
  • I can fit into almost any booth at restaurants.
  • I am no longer defensive about my eating habits.
  • I enjoy smells differently.
  • I have more energy.
  • I am able to love.
  • I feel God closer than ever.
  • I have lots of new friends.
  • I eat food for fuel.
  • I celebrate the real meaning of the holiday.
  • Just yesterday, I noticed that I have collar-bones.
  • I smile.
  • I wear two sizes smaller in shorts.
  • I love my husband unconditionally now.
  • I really LIKE looking at flowers.
  • I enjoy my granddaughter more every day.
  • The sunsets are more magnificent than ever.
  • I am able to listen in church with a calm understanding.
  • I appreciate the air.
  • I have been able to forgive.
  • I don't have swelling in my ankles and legs anymore.
  • My dogs don't aggravate me anymore.
  • I don't smother when I lie down.
  • My triple chin is now a double.
  • I marvel at the whole Creation.
  • I can think clearly.
  • I am not embarrassed to swim in front of anyone.
  • I no longer need a seat belt extender.
  • I only weigh when I feel a loss.
  • I thirst for knowledge and actually seek it.
  • I have let go of some of my perfectionism.
  • I no longer HAVE to have sugar after each meal.
  • I read EVERY food label.
  • I no longer beat myself up for a mistake, but go and learn about it.
  • I WANT to grow old.
  • I care more deeply for other people.
  • I get a pedicure now and then (used to be a big hangup).
  • Negative control is not as strong as it used to be.
  • I crave those cool evenings relaxing in my porch swing.
  • I can fit in most wheelchairs.
  • I don't have to have the largest hospital gown anymore.
  • The birds chirping have become quite beautiful.
  • I love eating "YLD Healthy Foods".
  • I have become ONE with my local health food store.
  • I am proud to answer "those questions" about my food plan.
  • I love knowing that this programs works.
  • I love helping my family understand about fuel for their bodies.
  • I can hardly wait until the Christmas Season.
  • I look at professionals with admiration, instead of a threat (huge hangup).
  • I care about my fingernails.
  • I am much more organized in my housekeeping.
  • I park farther from the store.
  • I hum a lot.
  • I WANT to exercise.
  • I have learned it is ok to set goals.
  • I no longer consider myself on a diet, but I am on a LIFE PLAN.
  • The sun seems brighter.
  • I can ASK for help without the guilt.
  • I can see my feet when I stand or lie down.
  • I no longer expect myself to fail with my weight loss.
  • I can tie my shoes without cutting off my oxygen supply.
  • I can also tie my shoes in the middle of my shoe instead of to the side.
  • I can say "no".
  • I crave green things and feel good about it!
  • I like cottage cheese.
  • Fresh air makes me feel alive.
  • I can cut my own toenails.
  • I can wear a smaller bra size.... smaller panties too.
  • I have so much more energy.
  • I have less PMS.
  • I don't worry about what people think about me.
  • I don't feel helpless anymore. Even if things are not going my way or I have a slip, I know that I can help myself.
  • Cinnamon is delicious without sugar.
  • Corn is sweet.
  • I wake up in the morning now (no more "10 snooze" mornings!).
  • I look forward to my warm oatmeal every morning.
  • I don't hide "forbidden food" all over the house anymore.
  • I don't sneak the wrappers out of the house so my husband doesn't see the evidence of last night's binge anymore.
  • I wear shorts because I like my legs even though they haven't made it to their full recovery yet.
  • I can fall asleep when I go to bed.
  • I can play with my children after dinner since I no longer feel comatose from eating huge white meals.
  • I feel *whole*, steady and real.
  • I feel.
  • I'm just plain happy and I can't put my finger on it.
  • Things that would have freaked me out before don't anymore.
  • Three months ago my protein was in my ice cream, wasn't it?
  • I've figured out that this is about life changes, not just about food.
  • I realize my life has more out of whack in it than just food".
  • After fighting exercise and the journal so long, they have become incredibly important to me. Feel frantic if I've left my journal home.
  • The journal is my home.
  • I am a size smaller but have only lost a few pounds.
  • The "girls" (my chest) are a size smaller.
  • I love shopping at the health food store. Shoppers are so much nicer there than at sugar stores.
  • I've gotten used to packing two meals a day.
  • I am very slowly gaining confidence in handling the feelings that the bingeing covered. Feelings really won't kill me, they do pass and generally teach me something. Sometimes the journal helps me catch feelings before I binge them temporarily away.
  • I have finally taken responsibility for my own life after feeling abandoned by others.
  • I no longer feel suicidal about turning 50 this Nov. Sometimes I feel that my life is just starting.
  • I have reduced my anti-depressants by 25% in agreement with my doctor.
  • I don't feel dirty, worthless and physically ill from bingeing nearly as much.
  • My office no longer does doughnut runs every afternoon. The communal chocolate drawer is gone. I don't miss either.
  • My food slips are more often portion explosions than sugar/white binges.
  • I think my fist is shrinking. (HA!)
  • I have returned to my art hobby and am having a blast.
  • I'm not afraid of going to a family reunion this September much heavier than the last reunion.
  • I don't go shopping now unless I really NEED something. I think I used to go shopping to feel better (raise by BE's).
  • My PMS symptoms have almost vanished.
  • I actually enjoy wearing pants with a zipper.
  • My migraines are gone - along with much of my fibromyalgia pain.
  • I don't feel like I'm hanging on to life with my fingertips any more - I have a much firmer grasp - and it's good!!!
  • I've gone through really tough times and had the clarity of mind to make wise and thoughtful decisions.
  • I don't apologize for making my food needs known - I've gotten REALLY good in restaurants (remember how Meg Ryan ordered in the movie "When Harry met Sally"?)
  • I have reduced the amount of alcohol easily and don't crave it like I used to.


Thanks for reading! If you know someone who could benefit from this, feel free to forward it to them.

Not a subscriber yet? Like what you have read? Sign up to get future issues delivered straight to you:

http://www.radiantrecovery.com

Until next time!
Here are the folks who are helping put the newsletter together:

Gretel, our webmaster, puts it all together.
David runs the Radiant Recovery® Store.
Selena provides the weekly Ambassadors column.



©2012 Kathleen DesMaisons. All rights reserved. You are free to use or transmit this article to your ezine or website as long as you leave the content unaltered, use this attribution: "By Kathleen DesMaisons, Ph.D. of Radiant Recovery®", and notify kathleen@radiantrecovery.com of the location. Please visit the Radiant Recovery® website at http://www.radiantrecovery.com for additional resources on sugar sensitivity and healing addiction.

You are getting the weekly newsletter from Radiant Recovery® in response to your signup. A copy of this newsletter may also be found posted on the web at http://www. radiantrecovery.com/weeklynewsletter