Experiencing labour and birth as part of the pregnancy process have prepared me to tackle challenges and peaceful experiences which I must encounter.
Last week as I taught the penultimate topic in the Caribbean Certificate of Secondary Level Competence (CCSLC) for social studies, I reflected on the many labouring experiences which I encountered.
I am one of the teachers at my school timetabled to teach the Caribbean Examinations Council syllabus offering. It was an electrifying opportunity filled with both painful and pleasurable moments. They included three painful learning encounters with other colleagues, millennium creative interactive class time with my students, and teachable moments with one of my cutting-edge colleagues.
I continue to master all of those learning experiences because I continuously remember that during the birth process, pain and pleasure always intermingle and in the end the Creator always gives birth to a precious gem.
Similarly, we must use our negative and positive experiences as stepping stones to propel us to victory and we must never give up when pain strikes us directly in the heart.
Severe pain assisted with the entrance of my astonishing son into this world. Likewise, as I endure the pain and pleasure associated with my genesis into CCSLC, I am developing wiser and stronger.
Last week my remarkable students participated in our lesson about regional integration and we discussed national dishes and the integration process. Moreover, the words callaloo, breadfruit and ackee were mentioned, which led me to penning this article about the health benefits of callaloo.
Silent doctor Amaranthus viridis or callaloo is known as a Caribbean superfood. Callaloo is popular in Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago and Haiti. It is a green leafy vegetable. I was introduced to callalloo when I dined in St Lucia. It is very rich in iron.
Callaloo regulates blood pressure and cholesterol levels, improves blood circulation and kidney function, prevents cancer and reduces excess bleeding by improving blood clotting. It also protects against free radicals and the muscles of the body against spasms.
The iron in callaloo also improves oxygen distribution, reduces dizziness and fatigue, improves the immune system, protects from apathy and treats anaemia. The magnesium will improve heart rate and normalises blood sugar levels.
Finally, I continue to enjoy researching and writing about silent doctors. I also continue to dream about retiring and like Jesus, sharing all of my positive and negative experiences with the younger generation to assist with positive change.
Next week, read more about callaloo verses cou-cou.
• Annette Maynard-Watson, a teacher and herbal educator, may be contacted via silentdoctors@gmail.com or by telephone 250-6450.
DISCLAIMER: It is not our intention to prescribe or make specific claims for any products. Any attempts to diagnose or treat real illness should come under the direction of your health care provider.
