Getting to the Heart of the Matter

We often think of our heart in one of two ways – as the life sustaining organ that pumps our blood or the center of our deepest emotions. Both are true but neither fully express the complexity and intelligence of our heart. Scientist such as those working at the HeartMath Institute have been studying the complexities of the heart and have discovered that your heart can affect your mental clarity, creativity, emotional balance, intuition and personal effectiveness. Studies revealed that, in fact, the heart communicates more information to the brain than the reverse. We now understand that the heart is in essence a highly-complex information processing center more accurately described as the heart brain, and it communicates with and influences our neurological brain.

The heart communicates with the brain and body in four ways:


• Neurological communication (nervous system)
• Biochemical communication (hormones)
• Biophysical communication (pulse wave)
• Energetic communication (electromagnetic fields)

Through these channels of communication, the heart actually influences our mental and emotional experience of life. The rhythm of the heart seems to be the key to this connection. For instance, studies show that stressful or draining emotions like frustration or overwhelm are reflected in the heart’s rhythm which in turn sends signals to the brain that affect higher-level brain centers and the autonomic nervous system. Our heart’s reactions to the world around us influence our cognitive function and perception.

It stands to reason that, if the effects of stress and overwhelm can cause the heart to trigger changes in our mental clarity and perception that are negative, then the opposite must also be true. Creating a logical and harmonious connection between the heart and the brain, known as heart coherence, can positively influence your brain function and sense of wellbeing. Heart coherence creates a synchronization between heart rhythms, the respiratory system blood-pressure. There are techniques, such as those taught by HeartMath practitioners, that can be practiced and perfected to help you achieve this coherence even in the most stressful situations. You can find a practitioner near you here.

If you aren’t ready for HeartMath but definitely need to work on your heart coherence, the practice of meditation or yoga can also be useful. There are fantastic guided meditations available on Insight Timer, a free app available online. You can visit your friendly neighborhood yoga studio or buy a DVD. Simple yoga poses can really make a difference. For instance, alternating cat and cow yoga poses offers an excellent opportunity to create emotional balance, decrease stress and calm the mind.

Here’s how:

Start in a “tabletop” position – hands and knees on the floor. Knees should be directly below your hips and your wrists, elbows and shoulders are in a straight line to the floor. Center your head. Eyes gaze softly at the floor.

As you exhale, round your spine toward the ceiling and relax the head down.

On the inhale, drop the belly toward the floor and allow the hips and shoulders to raise toward the ceiling. Lift your head to look forward.

Repeat for several breaths ending back in the tabletop position.

For more heart-open yoga poses click here.

If nothing else, remember the wisdom of your heart and honor how your emotional responses to the world affect the functioning of your mind and body. Understand that your heart is a powerful tool for achieving harmony in your life and a simple change in in its beat can make all of the difference.

New Client Forms

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your virtual session!

Health Coaching
Prior to your session

  1. Please click here to fill out the new client intake forms for your selected service. Please make sure to fill this out at least 24-hours prior to your scheduled appointment. 
  2. You will receive a zoom link prior to your appointment. Please check your email inbox. 
  3. If you would like us to analyze your iris and/or tongue, please take a close-up picture with your phone and email it to us. Make sure you are in an area with a lot of light and look directly into the camera. We’ve made a video tutorial for you to get the best pictures.  https://youtu.be/jj51psy91xA
  4. Organize your thoughts. Make a list of what you would like to see accomplished during your session.

During your session

  • Please consider this YOUR time, so minimize any distractions. Choose a place with good lighting and be ready for us to call you.
  • We will want to see your face, tongue, and nails so make sure they are clean.
  • It is ideal to have current supplements with you if you have questions regarding supplementation.

After your session

  1. We will email you a post-visit summary so you will have highlights and directions to keep in your inbox or print out.
  2. Supplemental recommendations will be emailed to you from our online dispensary, Wellevate, where you can easily order and get them shipped to your home.

Private Yoga
Prior to your session, please download Zoom

  • Go to Zoom’s website at Zoom.us.
  • Scroll down to the bottom of the page and click “Download” in the web page’s footer.
  • On the Download Center page, click “Download” under the “Zoom Client for Meetings” section.
  • The Zoom app will then begin downloading.

Set up your space and please consider this YOUR time, so minimize any distractions.

  • It’s important for me to see your whole body, choose a space with a strong wifi, good lighting and enough room to move around. 
  • I’ve found it best to have your computer set up on a small table or chair angled to either side, at top of your mat. 

  • When you book your appointment , you receive a link that connects you to the date-and-time-specific conference page. 
  • Please plan to log in 5-10 minutes prior.