The health benefits of blackberries

 It's that time of the year when our blackberries are ready to pick.  Found this interesting article on the health benefits.

Blackberries are a delicious and nutritious fruit known for their deep purple hue and sweet-tart flavour.

Beyond their culinary versatility, blackberries are packed with essential nutrients and powerful antioxidants that offer a range of health benefits.

In this feature, we’ll explore the numerous advantages of incorporating blackberries into your diet.

Also read – How to grow your own blackberries

Nutritional Profile

Blackberries are low in calories but high in vital nutrients, making them an excellent addition to a healthy diet. A one-cup serving (about 144 grams) of blackberries contains approximately:

• Calories: 62
• Protein: 2 grams
• Carbohydrates: 14 grams
• Fiber: 8 grams
• Vitamin C: 50% of the Recommended Daily Intake (RDI)
• Vitamin K: 36% of the RDI
• Manganese: 47% of the RDI
• Folate: 9% of the RDI

Additionally, blackberries provide small amounts of Vitamin A, Vitamin E, copper, magnesium, and potassium.

Health Benefits

1. Rich in Antioxidants

Blackberries are loaded with antioxidants such as anthocyanins, ellagic acid, and resveratrol. These compounds help protect the body from oxidative stress caused by free radicals, which can damage cells and lead to chronic diseases like cancer and heart disease. The high antioxidant content in blackberries can help neutralise these harmful molecules, reducing the risk of disease.

2. Promotes Heart Health

The antioxidants in blackberries, along with their high fiber content, contribute to heart health. Fiber helps lower cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Furthermore, the potassium and magnesium in blackberries help maintain healthy blood pressure levels.

3. Supports Digestive Health

Blackberries are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion by promoting regular bowel movements and preventing constipation. The fiber in blackberries also acts as a prebiotic, feeding the beneficial bacteria in the gut and promoting a healthy microbiome.

4. Boosts Immune System

The high vitamin C content in blackberries supports the immune system by stimulating the production of white blood cells and enhancing the body’s ability to fight infections. Vitamin C also acts as an antioxidant, protecting immune cells from damage.

5. Improves Brain Function

Blackberries may benefit brain health and improve cognitive function. The antioxidants in blackberries have been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain, which can help improve memory and delay age-related cognitive decline.

6. Promotes Healthy Skin

The vitamins and antioxidants in blackberries contribute to healthy, radiant skin. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in collagen production, helping maintain skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles. The antioxidants also protect the skin from damage caused by UV rays and environmental pollutants.

7. Supports Bone Health

Blackberries contain important nutrients like vitamin K and manganese, which are essential for maintaining healthy bones. Vitamin K is necessary for bone metabolism and helps prevent osteoporosis, while manganese is involved in the formation of bone cartilage and connective tissue.

Tips for Enjoying Blackberries

Chicken & Blackberry Salad

Incorporating blackberries into your diet is easy and can be done in a variety of ways:

• Fresh: Enjoy blackberries as a snack or add them to yogurt, porridge, or cereal.
• Smoothies: Blend blackberries with other fruits and vegetables for a nutritious smoothie.
• Salads: Toss blackberries into salads for a burst of flavour and color.
• Baking: Use blackberries in muffins, pies, and crumbles for a sweet treat.
• Preserves: Make homemade blackberry jam or jelly to spread on toast.

Blackberry & Lemon Layer Cake

Blackberries are a powerhouse of nutrition, offering numerous health benefits that support overall well-being. Their rich antioxidant content, along with essential vitamins and minerals, make them a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Whether eaten fresh, blended into smoothies, or baked into desserts, blackberries are a delicious way to enhance your health.

Recipe ideas:

Chicken & Blackberry Salad

Blackberry & Lemon Layer Cake

Blackberry and Coconut Parfait

https://www.silversurfers.com/health/diet-exercise/the-health-benefits-of-blackberries/

Lunch today

 Mains

Michel Roux courgette gratin with tomatoes and onions on Michel Roux’s French Country Kitchen - https://www.copymethat.com/r/Ed8g5vaJe/michel-roux-courgette-gratin-with-tomato/    I varied the recipe by making the first layer of onions and cubed courgettes with garlic, then adding a tomato layer of passata and chopped tomatoes (I used the Mutti brand), then sliced courgettes with a layer of mature cheddar cheese and topped with breadcrumbs and olive oil.

Nigella's Coq au Riesling - https://www.nigella.com/recipes/coq-au-riesling

Roasted baby new potatoes in garlic

Halloumi and melon salad (added tomatoes and honey dressing) - https://thetropicaltreat.com/simple-melon-and-halloumi-salad/

Pudding

Strawberry Clafoutis - https://www.madaboutmacarons.com/strawberry-pistachio-clafoutis/

Poached pears in damson syrup

Cheese and biscuits 

Coffee 

Chocolate bark

Why Touch Therapy is Good for Dogs and Cats

 

As dog and cat parents, we constantly seek ways to ensure our furry companions feel safe, relaxed, and healthy. One effective method for achieving this is through touch therapy techniques, such as TTouch and Reiki. These gentle practices not only promote relaxation but also help reduce anxiety and enhance overall well-being. By incorporating touch therapy into your dog or cat’s care routine, you can create a deeper bond with them while supporting their emotional and physical health.

Understanding TTouch

TTouch, or Tellington TTouch, is a gentle touch technique developed by Linda Tellington-Jones. It involves a series of circular movements and light touches applied to specific areas of your animal’s body. TTouch aims to improve body awareness, reduce tension, and promote relaxation. This technique can be particularly beneficial for animals experiencing anxiety, fear, or stress. By using TTouch, you can help your dog and cat feel more secure and comfortable in their environment, making it an excellent tool for calming anxious animals.

Exploring Reiki

Reiki is a Japanese healing practice that focuses on channeling energy to promote healing and relaxation. In a Reiki session, the practitioner lightly places their hands on or near the animal’s body to facilitate energy flow. This gentle touch can help alleviate stress, pain, and anxiety in dogs and cats. Reiki is a non-invasive technique that can be used alongside traditional veterinary care, making it a complementary approach to your furry friend’s health and well-being. Many dog and cat parents have reported positive changes in their furry companions’ behavior and emotional states after receiving Reiki treatments.

Techniques for Practicing Touch Therapy

To practice TTouch or Reiki at home, start by creating a calm and quiet environment. Choose a comfortable space where your animal feels safe, free from distractions. For TTouch, use your fingertips to make gentle circular motions on your furry friend’s body, focusing on areas where they may carry tension, such as the neck, shoulders, and back. Observe your furry companions’ reactions and adjust your touch accordingly. For Reiki, place your hands lightly on your animal or hold them a few inches away, allowing the energy to flow. Breathe deeply and maintain a relaxed state to enhance the effectiveness of the practice.

Observing Your Animal Companion’s Response

As you practice touch therapy techniques, pay close attention to your animal’s responses. Look for signs of relaxation, such as deep breathing, leaning into your touch, or closing the eyes. Each animal is unique, and their reactions may vary. Some animals may take to touch therapy immediately, while others may need time to adjust. Be patient and allow your animal to guide the experience. If they seem uncomfortable or anxious, take a break and try again later.

Incorporating Touch Therapy into Your Routine

To maximize the benefits of touch therapy, consider incorporating it into your animal companion’s daily routine. Use TTouch or Reiki during quiet moments, such as after walks or playtime, to help your furry friend unwind. You can also practice these techniques before stressful events, like vet visits or grooming sessions, to help calm your animal and reduce anxiety. Regular practice can strengthen your bond with your dog and cat and create a sense of trust and security.

Touch therapy techniques like TTouch and Reiki offer valuable tools for dog and cat parents looking to enhance their furry companions’ emotional and physical well-being. By practicing these gentle techniques, you can help your animal relax, reduce anxiety, and foster a deeper connection. Embrace the power of touch and create a soothing environment for your dog and cat, ensuring they feel loved, secure, and happy. It is recommended to complete TTouch and Reiki courses from authoritative sources to get comprehensive knowledge of these techniques.

AUTHOR PROFILE

Animal Wellness

Animal Wellness is North America's top natural health and lifestyle magazine for dogs and cats, with a readership of over one million every year. AW features articles by some of the most renowned experts in the pet industry, with topics ranging from diet and health related issues, to articles on training, fitness and emotional well being.

https://animalwellnessmagazine.com/why-touch-therapy-is-good-for-dogs-and-cats/?fbclid=IwY2xjawE8TVxleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHcgFXhOWrP7XdOP-T56ucyg00IrLgwAYmtWZRanrUAqXFBxWIBmxnliJbA_aem_SRvscRPEkr9UGfQM6_9FMw

Aldous Huxley

 

English Literature info

 

It’s dark because you are trying too hard.

Lightly child, lightly. Learn to do everything lightly.

Yes, feel lightly even though you’re feeling deeply.

Just lightly let things happen and lightly cope with them.

I was so preposterously serious in those days, such a humorless little prig.

Lightly, lightly – it’s the best advice ever given me.

When it comes to dying even. Nothing ponderous, or portentous, or emphatic.

No rhetoric, no tremolos,

no self conscious persona putting on its celebrated imitation of Christ or Little Nell.

And of course, no theology, no metaphysics.

Just the fact of dying and the fact of the clear light.

So throw away your baggage and go forward.

There are quicksands all about you, sucking at your feet,

trying to suck you down into fear and self-pity and despair.

That’s why you must walk so lightly.

Lightly my darling,

on tiptoes and no luggage,

not even a sponge bag,

completely unencumbered.

~Aldous Huxley , Island

Book: [ad] https://amzn.to/3YYefKK

(Art: Photograph by Goncarlo Claro)

Dr. Horatio Nelson Jackson and his Pittie Bud

 

Vintage Dog Photos for Fun 

 

Dr. Horatio Nelson Jackson and his Pittie Bud. First man to drive and first dog to be driven, across the US. 1903

Sam Toft

 One of Sam Toft paintings.  I have one of a terrier.  Really love the work.

The Ancient Olympics

 

By Divya Gupta

The first modern Olympic games were held in Athens, Greece in 1896. Around 280 participants from 13 nations competed in 43 sporting games. Since 1994, the famous games have been held separately as the Winter and Summer Olympics every two years. Yet these modern games are inspired by the ancient Olympics in Greece, which originated around 3000 years ago. From the 8th century B.C. until the 4th century A.D. these games were held every four years, between July and September, during the religious festival honoring Zeus.

The Origin of the Olympics

Ruins of the palaestra at Olympia, Greece.

The first ancient Olympic games were held in 776 BC in Olympia, on the first full moon after the summer solstice (around mid-July). The ancient town of Olympia was named after Mount Olympus, though it is nowhere near it. Mount Olympus is the highest mountain in Greece, and in Greek mythology, it was considered as being home to the gods and goddesses, and the Sanctuary of Zeus.

The ancient Olympic games began as a regional religious event and reached the heights of national importance when the Greek empire spread in the 5th century B.C. What was once a friendly and fun-loving event, became a matter of colonial pride!

The winner of the first Olympic games was Koroibos, a cook hailing from the town of Elis who won the only game, stade (origin of the word stadium). Stade was a 192-meter-long footrace that continued to be the only sport for 13 Olympic festivals.

Olympic Games

Sporting activities were an integral part of Greek education. The athletes would start preparing at an early age by professional trainers who helped them develop muscles, regulated their diet, and taught them sporting techniques.

There were many other sporting competitions, but the Olympics remained the most prestigious one. After 13 successful games, two more races were added: the diaulos (around 400-metres race) and the dolichos (a 1500-meters race). In 708 B.C. the very famous pentathlon (a race with five events: a foot race, long jump, discus, javelin throws, and wrestling match) was introduced. Many other games were added through the years like boxing in 688 B.C., chariot racing in 680 B.C., and pankration in 648 B.C.

Space where Olympians would practice boxing and wrestling at the paleastra of Olympia.

Olympic Rules and Regulations

Greeks took these games pretty seriously. Every athlete had to report to the events one month before the games and had to declare that they have been training for a minimum of ten months. Non-Greeks, lawbreakers, slaves, and murderers were prohibited from participating. Many cities, including Sparta in 420 B.C., were excluded from the games too.

A relief from a funerary kouros base depicting two Greek wrestlers, one of the sports at such events as the Olympic Games at Olympia. c. 510 BCE. (National Archaeological Museum, Athens)

The Hellanodikai judges from Elis were trained specially to organize the event. They had the power to disqualify and punish participants who infringed the law. On the breaching of any rules, the athlete or the city he represented had to pay hefty fines.

The Participants and Olympic Champions

The Hellanodikai judges crowned winners with a wreath made of olive leaves and branches, as a sign of victory. Olive was significant to Olympia because it was planted by Hercules himself. In chariot races, the owners received these olive leaves while the charioteer was gifted a red ribbon to be worn on the upper arm or head. Victors were highly regarded and would often be welcomed to their hometowns with a grand ceremony. Large celebrations were organized in honor of their victory. Olympic winners were considered real heroes and received glory, fame, and historical immortality.

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Amongst the famous Olympic champions are Kroton, from southern Italy, and Leonidas of Rhodes. Literary tales also fabricate the story of Roman Emperor, Nero, who would win every game he competed in! The first woman to win a game was Kyniska in 392 B.C. Women were not allowed to participate but they could own a horse and hold a title on its win.

It is speculated that almost 45,000 people would attend these famous games. Food vendors, musicians, and artists would all come together to entertain people. Masses would extend their support with boisterous activities and hooting. No wars were allowed during the period and people would excitedly gather to celebrate the prestigious event.

End of The Ancient Olympics

Around the mid-2nd century, the Roman Empire conquered Greece and eventually the standard and quality of the games fell. In 393 A.D., Emperor Theodosius banned all ‘pagan’ festivals including the famous Olympics. The ancient game lasted for nearly 12 centuries with 293 successful Olympiads before coming to an end.

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