FENG SHUI Basics

Applying feng shui basics in the home need not be that complicated. There are some ways in which this ancient practice can be used to make the home flow with positive energy or chi. Here are some of the basic feng shui practices that you need to know and can easily apply to make your home as well as your life filled with positive chi.

A restful, well-lighted space - Photo by woodleywonderworks 

Light, Air and Feng Shui

In order to fill your home with good chi, you may need to have good quality air as well as lighting. In feng shui, it is believed that chi flows through with the help of air as well as natural light. Because of this, it is essential to make use of these two elements to ensure that the home flows with good chi. To allow the good energy into your home, you would need to open your windows often to let natural air into the home.

You can also use air purifying plants or an air purifier at home to make sure that the air remains clean and pure. Also try to allow as much natural light into your home to allow good chi to fill your home.

Unclutter Your Home

Clutter is a known obstacle to the flow of chi. It can have an effect on health as well as the overall energy levels and quality of life. Too much clutter can drain your energy as well as impede good energy from flowing into your home or life. Getting rid of the clutter can also help get rid of the negative load that affects your life. By clearing clutter, you are creating a harmonious environment in your home flowing with good energy.

Know Your Feng Shui Birth Element

In order to understand better how you can use feng shui to achieve a certain balance in your life and home, you might need to know your own birth element. There is a certain element that corresponds to your birth year. Knowing what element your are born with can help you decide on what is the best approach to achieve that certain balance in feng shui. You can use your feng shui birth element to introduce the different expressions of the element into your home through the use of colors and the balance of the other complementary elements in your life and home.

Know Your Kua Number

According to feng shui, each person has his or her own kua number that corresponds to one's date of birth and gender. The kua number also tells of each person's energy needs.  In the school of feng shui called the Flying Stars, people may belong in either one of two energy groups- the East or the West. For the East Group, their kua numbers may either be 1, 3, 4 or 9.

For those on the West group, their kua numbers can either be 2,6,7 or 8. you can use your kua number to determine directions and orientation of structures such as your home or where you face when working in order to ensure good positive energy to flow through. These feng shui basics can help you start off in making your life and home flow with good chi.

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The Martialarm Introduction To CAPOEIRA

Capoeira is an Afro-Brazilian martial art, game, and culture created by enslaved Africans in Brazil during the 17th Century. Participants form a roda (circle) and take turns playing instruments, singing, and sparring in pairs in the center of the circle. The game is marked by fluid acrobatic play, feints, subterfuge, and extensive use of groundwork, as well as sweeps, kicks, and headbutts. Throughout the game, a player must avoid a sweep, trip, kick, or head butt that may knock him or her on the floor. Less frequently-used techniques include elbow-strikes, slaps, punches, and body-throws. Capoeira has three variations known as "Capoeira Angola", "Capoeira Regional", and the ever-evolving "Capoeira Contemporânea".

Capoeira - Photo: Wikimedia

From the 16th to the 19th centuries, Portugal shipped slaves into South America from western Africa. The South American country of Brazil was the most common destination for African captives[citation needed] with 42% of all enslaved peoples shipped across the Atlantic. Most commonly sold into Brazil were Akan, Igbo, Yoruba, Dahomean, Muslim Guineans, Hausa, and Bantu (among them Kongos, Kimbundas and Kasanjes) from Angola, Congo and Mozambique.

These Africans brought their cultural traditions and religions with them to the New World. One theory suggests that capoeira originated from a fern courtship dance[citation needed] in Angola used by suitors of young women, however, this is only one of many disputed theories. There is contention as to whether the game arrived with enslaved Africans or whether Africans refined a preexisting Brazilian game. One catalyst for capoeira was the homogenization of African people under the oppression of slavery. Capoeira emerged as a way to resist oppression, secretly practice art, transmit culture, and lift spirits. Some historians believe that the indigenous peoples of Brazil also played an important role in the development of capoeira.

Capoeira was advanced by Brazilian slaves of African descent (presumably admitted from the Portuguese colony of Angola) some time in the 16th century. since it was illegal for slaves to practice fighting skills, they varied native African spiritual dances so that each time they practised their art they might appear to merely be dancing. Due to the fact these dances included manoeuvres such as handstands, back flips, and cartwheels, Capoeira is today the most energetic of all martial arts, with many kicks being executed from a handstand position. Its offensive techniques are initially kicks, its defensive techniques are in the beginning body movements which stay away from the enemy's attack all together. African culture is a large part of studying Capoeira, above all since training and competition is done to the rhythm of the berimbau, a single- stringed musical instrument. Only in the 20th century has the practice of Capoeira become legal in Brazil, and Only in very modern years has it been taught in other countries.

In 1942, Mestre Pastinha opened the first formal academy for instruction in the traditional form of the art, known as capoeira Angola. Mestre Pastinha's efforts prevented capoeira Angola from being lost as newer, modernized forms of the art gained popularity.

This era was a milestone of a dramatic change in the mode of instruction of the art of capoeira. Previously, capoeira was passed on in secret, usually from a relative such as one's father or uncle, or in a small group setting where several young people in a particular community would receive guidance from elder practitioners from that community. During this era, the academy system became the predominant form of participation in the art. Presently, there are capoeira academies on almost every continent of the world.

Another significant change that occurred due to the proliferation of capoeira 'schools' is the participation of middle and upper class members of the population. Presently, some Mestres participate in seminars where they discuss the need to make the art available to poor blacks who can not afford the cost of training in an academy. This is an issue of concern to practitioners who recognize the importance of making the art available to people who come from the culture that invented the art in the first place.

Capoeira training can be done in any city in the world and I encourage you to visit out martial arts directory of Capoeira to find a school near you!

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How to Use RUNES For HEALING

The subject of Rune Healing comes from a very wide field. There is a great deal of information on the Net about Rune Healing. You can find information about how the Vikings and our ancestors used Runes to heal.

But the bottom line to rune healing is energy. The New Paradigm of the Laws of Quantum Physics tell us that all is energy. You and I are energies, the runes are energies, our planet, Solar System, Galaxy and even the Universe is energy.

The Runes are keys to the Creative Energies of the Universe. They are the most powerful symbols and tools you can use to attract more health, wealth and love into your life.

Since we are energy beings we connect to all other energies in the Universe with our Auras. In fact the energies we carry in our Auras attract our physical realities. You want more health, wealth, and love? Then you must have the energy that vibrates to health, wealth and love in your Aura.

Then you must have the patience to allow these energies in you Aura to attract your new reality of health, wealth and love. It takes time.

Another powerful law of Quantum Physics is the law of Resonant Frequencies. A Rune UR symbol is a resonant frequency to the Universal healing energy. Like attracts like.

By practicing one of the following seven methods of Rune healing you can attract the healing energies of UR out of the Quantum Ocean of all energies and into your Aura.

Once the rune UR energy is in your Aura, it will start the healing process that will bring you health.

The following seven methods need a symbol of the UR Rune to be affective.. Copy the UR Rune at the end of this Article.

Rune Meditation: With the UR Rune in your lap relax, breathe deeply and meditate upon it. No thoughts just a simple runic meditation.

That is all you have to do. Your mind will make the needed connection.

Rune Breathing: With the Ur Rune in your lap, look at it and intone "I am now breathing the divine healing energy of the Rune Ur out of the Quantum Ocean and into my Aura."

Rune Yoga: Practice the Rune Ur body and hand postures.

Rune Magic: This is a wide open field for you. I have written several articles on Rune Magic. Pick and Choose the method you like.

Rune Mantras: The power of the spoken Rune Mantras is not to be overlooked. <br />

Rune Radionics: The 21st century has not only given us the Laws of Quantum Physics, but also the Internet and the new Science of Radionics. Combining Runes with Radionics powers up all your Rune exercises.

Rune Cooking: Make a batch of your favorite cookies and inscribe or make an icing symbol UR on them. Every day eat one knowing that   the laws of Resonant Frequencies will attract abd unleash the healing power of Ur into your body.

Ellis Peterson is a Korean War Vet living with his wife Lory and dog Dixie in the boonies of the Pocono Mountains. He is a retired math professor and electronics engineer. He is the inventor of the simple radionics device called "The Nordic Ond Orgone Generator".  Article Directory: EzineArticles

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DIABETES and Your Mouth

We diabetics have to pay even more attention to our teeth and gums than other people.

We are at greater risk of cavities, gum disease and tooth infections. Not only that, but those infections can cause our blood sugar to rise, so it becomes a vicious cycle.

Idealized curves of human blood glucose and insulin concentrations
during the course of a day containing three meals;
in addition, effect of sugar-rich meal is highlighted;
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Here are some mouth problems common in diabetics.

Plaque

Plaque is, of course, a problem for many people, not just diabetics. But it's caused by starches and sugars, and of course we have more than our share of those! So diabetics are highly prone to plaque.

Dry mouth

Sometimes my mouth is so dry in the morning I can hardly speak—I'm sure you know how that feels. But it's more than just inconvenient, it's dangerous to the health of our mouths. You see, saliva washes away many of the bacteria that cause cavities and gum disease. Dry mouth cuts the amount of saliva available for this job, so the result is more cavities and gum disease. Dry mouth sometimes also creates inflammation of the soft tissue in the mouth, making eating difficult and unpleasant.

While there are artificial saliva substitutes, which your dentist can tell you about, you can usually stimulate your own saliva by sucking on a sugar-free hard candy. I like no-sugar-added Ricola for this purpose. And of course, drinking water helps.

Fungal infections

Not only do we diabetics have less saliva than we need, but the saliva we do have is high in sugar content, so it's double trouble for us. This can cause a fungal infection called candiasis, commonly known as thrush. It produces sore red or white spots in the mouth. Medication can help though, so ask your dentist.

As a diabetic, you must pay great attention to oral hygiene. Brush your teeth twice a day, and floss daily. Examine your gums for signs of problems—and always visit your dentist at least twice a year.

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CHINESE HERBS - Effectiveness for Women in case of Pre-menstrual Syndromes

Many diseases or medical conditions that erupt in our life are mainly because of the unhealthy diet and high consumption of saturated foods. Pre-menstrual syndromes have also found their inception because of this very change in our nutrition.

The premenstrual syndrome is defined as faulty function of the ovaries related to the women's menstrual cycle. It affects the physical and emotional state of the women. It sometime interferes with the daily activities as well due to hormonal fluctuation in the body. The emergence of syndrome takes place approximately two weeks before which then decays as the periods start.

The resulting pain and disturbances can be relieved with the usage of Chinese herbal medicines. As being effective in many other cases, these herbs have also proved their worth in this aspect of medicine as well.

The herb named Ba Ji Tian or Morinda root is very effective with respect to the problems associated with reproductive, urinary and menstrual disorders like this very syndrome in women. Primarily, water retention is the main problem associated with women in PMS which occurs due to deficiency of potassium. But morinda root contains high concentration of potassium which is essential for balancing the salt level in the body. Besides, it also regulates the fluid in our bodily tissues and improves the lymphatic functions.

Furthermore, it also contains Linoleic acid and Flavone glycosides. The former helps in converting essential fatty acids in to GLA thus resulting in lesser production of PGE2 and reducing the uterus pain and cramps whereas the latter improves the muscles of the large intestine in moving the stool thereby reducing the risk of constipation as well. The Morinda root contains carotene, vitamin A and C which are very essential for nourishing the immune system for fighting against the irregular cell growth in case of tumours, cancer and endometriosis. They also guard against infections and inflammations including the women reproductive system.

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What do CHIROPRACTORS do Exactly?

Many people around the world often face the question about what do chiropractors do. The chiropractors identify and treat patients' suffering from the disorders of neuromuscular-skeletal that is an misalignment of the spine and other joints of the body, by correcting the position of the spine or through other right methods.

Jim Dubel demonstrating adjustment protocals (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Chiropractors are usually practice in private practice or with other health practitioners in their clinics.

This information will solve the doubt of what do chiropractors do .The doctors at these clinics have a usual routine, like other specialists, to get needed information; to detect and treat patients. These specialists need to keep a record of patient’s medical history, neurological tests, orthopedic examinations and medical history. They may also suggest some laboratory examinations.

Chiropractic should have accurate observational skills that will help them detect the physical irregularities. These people need a lot of physical strength to successfully handle the complicated cases.  

Apart from the above prescriptions, some specialists  also specialize in sports neurology, injuries, pediatrics, orthopedics, nutrition, diagnostic imaging or internal disorders. The Chiropractor work as single or as a group of practitioners who are also responsible for the administration responsibilities of practicing this medicine.

In bigger organizations, Chiropractors allot these responsibilities to office managers and assistants. Chiropractor who work privately have the responsibility to develop a strong base of patients, keeping records and hiring employees.

The Chiropractic treatment deals with health care, that causes a stress on the patient’s health. The doctors at these clinics specialize in non-surgical, drugless, natural health treatments, depending on the recuperative inherent abilities of the patients body.

Chiropractic medicine suggests changes in those factors that affect the lifestyle of person. 

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Use Old Crayons to MAKE CANDLES

If you have children in your home, chances are you have an abundance of worn down crayons that don’t get used much anymore. Before throwing them out and buying new ones, consider using them to make candles. This can be a great way to turn them into something new and bright again. Most children will love the idea of creating candles with you and enjoy knowing their old crayons helped create them. Making candles out of crayons can also be a great gift giving idea. 

Wax crayons
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Before you get started, discuss safety with your children. Since the crayons will have to be melted at a very high heat, they will not be able to participate in that portion of the candle making process. Assure them that there are many other aspects of the candle making that they can be a part of. To start, gather your supplies. In addition to the crayons, you will need a wax cartoon. This can be from milk, fabric softener, or orange juice. You will also need paraffin wax, two full ice cube trays, a double boiler, and white packing string. If you don’t want to use your double boiler an old coffee can and a saucepan will work just as well.

Trim the top off of the wax carton, leaving it approximately six inches high. You will want to cut the string at least 8 inches long. You will later cut the wick to fit the holder. To ensure a wick that burns easier take three pieces and bread them together. Use smaller pieces of string to tie the ends together. The holders for your candles can be anything you desire as long as they are non-flammable. Pretty vases, glasses, and jars work nicely.

Melt about three pounds of paraffin wax in the double boiler or coffee can. To help it melt faster, cut it into small chunks. The melting process with take about fifteen to twenty minutes. While the wax is melting, peel the papers off of the old crayons. You and your children can choose to separate the colors by lights and darks to have a mix that melds well or you can mix it all together and see what the color ends up being.

For best results, only add the crayons to the wax after it has completely melted. After the crayons and wax have both melted together, immediately remove the mixture from the stove and pour into your candle holders. If you would like to make scented candles try adding a splash of cinnamon or vanilla to your hot wax mixture.

It is important that the candles by left alone to completely harden. Make sure you have an area this can be done without disruption. It is also important to make sure small children can’t reach them, as out of curiosity they may want to check on their candles. The wax will stay hot for several hours and can scold the skin.

Making candles out of old crayons is a great way to spend the afternoon creating a neat project with your children. This process can also be done at schools and childcare centers with old crayons as presents for parents. Simply allow each child to decorate the outside of their candle holder while adults complete the rest of the process.

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AYURVEDIC BODY TYPE and Diet Recommendations

Ayurveda recommends foods for people according to their primary body type. The reason this is done is because it is believed foods can be both healing, and the source of imbalance and difficulties. By eating foods according to our Ayurvedic body type, the belief is that we will accumulate less Ama, or waste, in the body.

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

In Ayurveda, people are classified according to three principles, vata, kapha, and pitta. But it's important to understand that although we may be dominant in one principle, we actually have all three present in our body. The others are in a smaller ration. Most people will actually be a combination of two of these principles, with the third only playing a minor role. But because we all contain the three, any of them can get out of balance.

Pitta

Characteristics of Pitta dominant body types

* determination
* strong willed
* good digestion
* initiative
* energy
* passionate about many things

Ayurveda's Pitta constitution is calmed by cooling foods, such as fresh fruit and vegetables. Bitter green vegetables like watercress, parsley, collards and most greens suit pitta. Fruits that suit pitta body types include sweet berries, sweet apples and apricots, coconut, figs, mango, sweet oranges and pineapples, plums, watermelon, pomegranates, and prunes.

Other cooling foods include most dairy products, though sour cream, hard cheeses, and yoghurt don't really suit pitta due to their being too high in fat, salt, or sour. But dairy that suits pitta includes milk, cottage cheese, soft cheeses, and ice cream!

Grains that suit pitta body types include barley, basmati rice, and wheat (unless you are allergic or gluten sensitive).

Pitta body types generally like a lot of protein, and they probably need a little more than the other Ayurvedic body types. Spices that are cooling in nature are also important. These include coriander, cumin, mint, parsley, dill and fennel. Garlic should be avoided though as it is too heating.

In terms of sweets, Pitta body types should use maple syrup, barley malt, brown rice syrup and honey that is 6 months or less old, preferably raw.

Things that can imbalance Pitta body types:

* excess heat, hot climates, and hot times of day
* humidity
* vacations and times when there is increased mobility
* excess oil in the diet
* too many hot foods, including spicy foods. But this can also mean too many cooked meals
* excess caffeine, salt, red meat and alcohol

Vata

Characteristics of people with a dominant Vata body type:

* flexibility
* quick mind
* creative
* always on the go - mentally and physically

Dietary choices that support vata aim at grounding this energy-in-motion. Routine is also very helpful, though not naturally something vata body type people will create! Vata people benefit from meditation, warmth, soothing music, taking breaks, and resting (again, not a natural vata inclination!).

With regards foods, vata body types should include warming spices, including ginger and cloves, anise, cayenne, cinnamon, garlic, horseradish, caraway, mint, mustard seeds, parsley, cooked onion, paprika, rose water, vanilla, tarragon, thyme and rosemary.

People with the vata body type should minimize raw food, including salad, though salads should not be eliminated completely as they provide valuable nutrients. But vata should ground the salad with a dressing made from oil and vinegar, and be aware of the weather at the time of eating it. Being more sensitive to cold, vata's should have salads on warmer days.

Icy cold drinks are not balancing for vata - in fact quite the opposite. Sugar also throws vata types off balance, though vata are lucky in that they can enjoy other sweets.

Vata generally love fruit, and it suits their ayurvedic constitution. The exceptions are apples, pears, cranberries, watermelon and dried fruit. Vata types should go for sweet and moist fruit, like mangoes, nectarines, bananas, coconut, fresh figs, peaches, and strawberries.

Cooked grains like oatmeal, basmati rice, and brown rice, are very grounding for the vata ayurvedic constitution. Beans (legumes), on the other hand, are not! Beans are cold, dry, and heavy - not the attributes that support vata.

Things that can imbalance vata dominant body types include:

* a lot of travel, especially by plane
* loud noises
* constant stimulation
* drugs, sugar and alcohol
* cold climates (especially extremely cold ones) and cold food
* frozen and dried food

Kapha

Characteristics of people with a kapha dominant body type:

* strength
* stamina
* endurance
* groundedness
* calm
* fluid

Kapha body types are not suited to a high protein diet like the Atkins diet. Not only should they avoid too much fat, but also, excessive heavy protein. The kapha quality is already heavy, and although this doesn't sound great, it is what provides Kapha body types with a wonderful stability and strength.

Kapha should have light and low fat protein. Beans, with the exception of soy and soy products, are great for kapha. Soy milk is preferable to dairy though, for kapha. Beans help move kapha's energy, and digestive system, a bit. Barley is also excellent. In terms of meat, chicken and turkey suit kapha.

Kapha body types should have plenty of vegetables, including bitter vegetables, peppers, broccoli, brussel sprouts, cauliflower, eggplant, lettuce, onions, potatoes, mushrooms, corn cobs, peas, beets, and celery.

Dairy is heavy and cooling, and it does not suit the Kapha ayurvedic body type. Light and crispy food, like corn tortillas and popcorn, suit kapha. Kapha people should make sure they have variety in their diet, as kapha body types have a danger of falling into a rut more than others.

Asian and Latin American style meals are great for kapha. They are spicy and light, free of dairy, and have plenty of vegetables in them.

Things that can imbalance Kapha body types:

* inertia
* too much fat in the diet, including oil we cook with!
* dairy products
* not enough stimulation and challenge
* not enough variety
* not enough exercise
* too much bread, iced foods and drinks, and sweets

References: Amadea Morningstar and Urmila Desai, The Ayurvedic Cookbook

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The 5 Animals Of KUNG FU

Also known as the Kung Fu fist forms, the 5 animals of Kung Fu are known all across the world, and are some of the deadliest martial arts you can study.  There are other specific fist styles in Kung Fu, although none of them are as powerful or as well known as the 5 animal styles.  As the name implies, these forms were derived from the animals in which they got their names from.

Students of Shaolin Kung Fu school perform renowned shaolin kungfu (martial art). (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Dragon Claw

The Dragon Claw is very well known, with the Chinese believing that this style comes directly from the ancient dragon.  This style uses an open hand technique that is used for controlling the opponent through grabbing and throwing.  Using an open hand technique, stylists may also use the fingers to poke as well.  Dragon Claw is very fast, very hard to defend against - and nearly impossible to predict.

The Leopard Claw

The Leopard Claw style utilizes a half opened fist.  The ideal striking method with Leopard is the ridge of the hand, which is formed by folding the fingers towards the palm of the hand, with the palm being the backup or secondary striking method.  Leopard Claw is very fast as well, and very lethal if the stylist has enough technique and power behind his strikes.

The Tiger Claw

Tiger Claw uses an open hand movement that is used for tearing and grabbing.  Tiger Claw is the most well known of the 5 animal system, and also one of the most well known forms of Kung Fu as well.  It isn’t affected by simply grabbing and gripping with the hand, but from the digging of the fingernails deep into the skin.  Once the fingernails have been embedded in the opponent’s skin, the Tiger Claw stylist can shred the skin right off the bone, tearing the opponent apart.  Tiger Claw is very powerful - and one of the deadliest forms in the world of martial arts.

The Snake Head

Snake Head resembles the attack of a snake in combat, using an open hand technique which requires the fingers to be held together tight, fully extended.  The tips of the finger form a very hard surface, used to attack the softest and most vital areas of the opponent.  In order to be effective, both hands need to be used together at the same time.

The Crane Beak

Crane involves the fingers being pressed together tightly, forming a striking surface at the base of the stylist’s fingertips.  Although the fingers can be conditioned to a high level of strength, most attacks using the Crane technique are focused towards the most vital areas of an opponent.

The 5 animal styles of Kung Fu are very popular, and very deadly.  Martial artists that know any of these forms are very deadly - and more than capable of defending themselves against anything that comes their way.

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About ASTROLOGY

Astrology is the study of planetary position to determine the course of things ahead in life as well as event and details concerning past life or karma.  The earliest recording or sign of astrology was found in the 3rd millennium BC. Astrology has over the course of time, influenced culture, early astronomy and other disciplines.

Astrology

Astrology uses two ways of predicting the future – one is astrological transits and the other is astrological progressions. It is important to understand how both play, in the way a horoscope is read out and predications made. Astrological transits look into the movement of planets and the impact of such movements in space and n personal horoscope. Astrological progressions use a set of methods to determine how a horoscope ha s moved forward in time.  Now-a-days, astrologers no longer predict actual events.  Instead what they do is bring out various general astrological events in order to have better results and give importance to arbitrary and unrelated events.

There are three main astrological traditions. These are Vedic astrology, Western astrology and Chinese astrology. Vedic and western astrology make use of an astrological chart or horoscope and make their prediction using the position of the Sun, Moon, and planets. However, the point of difference between Vedic and Western astrology is in the linking of zodiac signs to their original constellations, which while is a feature not present in western astrology, but is considered of paramount importance in Vedic astrology.  The chief characteristic of Vedic astrology is in it’s use of nakshatras or lunar mansion and planetary periods known as dashas in future predictions.

Chinese astrology uses a means that is very different from Vedic and western astrology. Instead of diving zodiac signs according to the sky, they are divided according to the celestial equator. Every zodiac sign here stands for a year and the sign is combined with a system that uses the five elements of Chinese cosmology to give a 60 (12 x 5) year cycle. Chinese astrology is a method not just used in China, it is used in m many Asian countries.

Now, the question is – can the future be predicted by astrology? Yes to some extent. Astrology, though considered by many scientific thinkers as some sort of superstition, is actually a science because there is considerable study that goes into making each prediction. Reliable astrologers have been able to bring out future influences to accuracy, but accuracy also depends upon providing correct information and doing knowledgeable calculations. Of the many forms of astrological methods available nadi jyosiam is considered to be highly accurate as it is based on readings of past life taken from leave available in Videesvaran temple in the state of Tamil Nadu, India.

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A Stress-free Guide to Managing ANXIETY

Anxiety is a condition that is neither welcome nor enjoyable. This condition can effectively reduce a person’s productivity and ability to cope with various situations. Add to that the fact that periods of anxiety are uncomfortable and bring with it a host of nervous illnesses – palpitations, cold flushes, clammy hands, and a boiling sense of dread in the pit of the stomach among others.

While it has been the subject of many studies and researches, scientists are agreed that anxiety is still not fully understood even today. However, as a result of their researches, they have been able to help people effectively manage and avoid anxiety.

1. Avoid Stress – Stress is the greatest predisposing factor to anxiety attacks. If one is to avoid any anxiety-related illness, that person should reduce the amount of stressors experienced per day. 

While not completely avoidable, one can at least create an environment where stress plays a lesser role on they body. Make sure you put the stressors that can be avoided away from your immediate vicinity. You could try lounging in an area that is peaceful and quiet. 

You will be surprised at what a good five minutes of relaxation can do for a stressed-out body. You could also come up with good coping mechanisms for stress related issues. You could listen to soothing music, meditate, and do other relaxing activities.

2. Avoid Drinking and Other Substances – Studies have shown that various substances can predispose one to bouts of anxiety. These substances play around with the normal balance of chemicals in the brain, effectively increasing the chance one acquires anxiety illness.

While some people drink or take drugs to soothe their nerves it actually has a counter-effect that will discourage those that do so. Drugs for example can increase the release of a chemical called dopamine in the brain. 

Dopamine is a chemical that is associated with pleasure in the body. While activities such as sex and eating good food increase dopamine release anywhere from two to three times, drugs haywire the brain and cause an increase in dopamine anywhere from four to ten times. 

While this may seem like a good thing for some people, this sudden and unwarranted increase in dopamine can actually cause havoc to the chemical balance of the brain. And while it makes those that take them giddy for some time, when a person’s high wears off, the sudden loss of dopamine will induce a great amount of depression, stress, and anxiety.

3. Sleep Right – People need the right amount of sleep to retain a calm, restive demeanor. If you have noticed, you are usually a lot crankier and anxious the day after you pull an all-nighter. This is because sleep is a necessity for good health – physically, emotionally, and psychologically.

Not only is the amount of sleep important, but the regular schedule for it as well. If possible keep your sleep patterns regular, as an irregular pattern can cause an undue amount of stress and anxiety.

4. Eat Right – The body needs certain nutrients to keep itself healthy. Not only does it need these nutrients for energy and building processes, it also needs certain nutrients to keep the chemical balance in the body at normal rates. 

This makes the intake of healthy food important. The intake of the right kind of food is integral to the health and well-being of any person. Anxiety is, as studies have shown, directly related to diet.

Avoid taking food substances that can alter your body chemistry in the wrong way. Coffee and alcohol are some of the food stuffs that can play with one’s chemical balance and cause anxiety as well.

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Hemorrhoids Relief and Treatment with AROMATHERPY

Aromatherapy currently enjoys steadily increasing popularity as a method of treatment for hemorrhoids these days, but aromatherapy can often be confusing to the average person. What is it? How does it work? Does it even work at all? These are valid questions that should be asked of any regimen of treatment. When properly used and understood, aromatherapy offers beneficial, at home treatment of hemorrhoids.

Lavender - Photo by woodleywonderworks 

First, it is helpful to understand precisely what aromatherapy is and is not. Aromatherapy is not magic. It does not imply that merely by sniffing a particular scent your ills will be cured. In point of fact, aromatherapy is a bit of a misleading term. Properly speaking, it should be labeled as plant-based medication that is taken either by inhalation, according to the same principle by which asthma inhalers work, or topically through the skin, just as ointments and creams work. The essential oils used in aromatherapy are medications, and just as chemically complicated and potentially dangerous as any other medications.

In fact, essential oils are generally not oils at all. They are concentrated liquids that are extracted from plants by various means that include simmering, steaming, and condensation. Due to these methods, it generally takes quite a bit of plant matter to equal a proportionally tiny amount of essential oils. Fortunately for one's pocketbook, essential oils are used only in minute quantities due to their level of concentration. As an example, some studies have shown that essential oil of oregano is such a powerful antiseptic that 1 part oregano oil to 4000 parts water will sterilize the water. It would be impossible to use on a human being undiluted, it would be far too powerful. Therefore, essential oils are always diluted in a carrier oil or water before use. Also, due to the concentration level, essential oils should never be taken by mouth without the supervision of a qualified herbalist who is familiar specifically with aromatherapy.

Essential oils are also usually quite volatile, which means that the active, medicinal chemicals in them evaporate quickly when exposed to air. Therefore, essential oils are kept in tightly closed, dark glass bottles, in pure form, until right before they are to be used. Then, and only then, they are mixed with the carrier that dilutes them to their proper strength. If a prepared blend is left exposed to oxygen for even a day, the actual medication is probably gone. It may still smell nice, and can be used for that purpose, but don't expect to get the therapeutic effect anymore.

There are two different ways to treat hemorrhoids with essential oils, and these can be used together. The first method involves a shallow bath of hot water. This method should only be done in a bathtub, as the dosages given are not meant for a sitz-bath that fits over the toilet. Run a shallow, hot bath, and sprinkle twenty drops of lavender and twenty drops of juniper essential oils. Swish through the water with your hand to make sure that they are well mixed in the water, and soak for twenty minutes. To use the other method, you'll also need a carrier oil of some kind. The most popular carrier oil for aromatherapy is sweet almond oil, but apricot oil also works well. In a pinch, the vegetable oil that is used for baking can work, but this is not optimal as it is practically guaranteed to have some impurities. Blend two drops of lavender and one drop of geranium oil with one ounce of the carrier oil, and apply to the area as you would an ointment.

Always test yourself for allergies to essential oils by diluting one drop in a small amount of carrier oil and dabbing it on the inside of your elbow. Leave it there for twenty-four hours and check closely for a reaction. If you are allergic to an essential oil, it is important to know before applying it to such a sensitive and tender area of your body. In addition, should you start to have any skin reactions during treatment, immediately cease all aroma therapeutic treatments immediately, along with anything else you've been placing on your skin. Given these cautions, however, aromatherapy has offered relief and treatment to many people who are suffering from hemorrhoids. In combination with a diet and lifestyle change, these aromatherapy treatments should clear up the problem in no time.

Mr. Urquhart, Chief writer and editor for a number of health websites, writes extensively about hemorrhoids covering hemorrhoids treatment and internal and external hemorrhoids and much more. Aromatherapy can help. Always discuss the information with your health professional. Article Directory: EzineArticles

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Definition Of CHEMOTHERAPY

Chemotherapy is the use of chemical agents to treat or control diseases. It works by killing fast dividing cells like cancerous cells and other healthy cells which include hair follicles, bone marrow, reproductive system etc.

Cancer cells photographed by camera attached to microscope in time-lapse manner.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

You would get anxious at the mention of chemotherapy for above reasons but there is not much cause for worry as healthy cells regenerate fast after the therapy is complete. Chemotherapy is either used exclusively or in combination with radiation or surgical therapies.

Advantages

Unlike radiation, which kills cancer cells in the target area, chemotherapy is universal and treats the entire body. This attacks the untreated cancer cells from the previous cancer too. Doctors use chemotherapy depending on the spread and type of cancer to

·Destroy cancer cells from the body, no withstanding its wide spread

·Prolong life expectancy by controlling cancer growth and spread

·Alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life

Chemotherapy Types and Methodology

Chemotherapy is not always based on a single drug for the fear of developing resistance to the drug. On the other hand a combination has different actions at the cellular level and kills more cancer cells preventing further spread. Your doctor decides on the combination considering your age, tolerance limit, and health. Mind you, all such combinations are tested on patients with similar conditions.

A few representative types.

1.Alkylating agents, deter the replication of DNA, prevents cancer cell growth.

2.Antimetabolites, block the enzyme supply to cancer cells on which they thrive.

3.Anti-tumor antibiotics change cell membranes by blocking enzyme supply led cell division. These are not the general antibiotics.

4.Nitrosoureas obstruct the ways DNA is repaired by enzymes.

5.Mitotic inhibitors inhibit cell division by hindering enzymes essential in the cell reproduction.

Chemotherapy is administered cyclically considering the type of drugs and your condition. Chemotherapy drugs travel thru the entire body, so there are four ways devised for administration.

1.Intravenous method where drug is injected into your veins.

2.Oral chemotherapeutic pills to swallow.

3.Topical application (ointments) for skin cancers.

4.Intramuscular injection.

Side Effects

On the lighter side there are side effects like vomiting, nausea, hair loss, dry mouth, constipation and loss of appetite etc. Beware, some problems like damages to heart, lungs and kidneys show much after the treatment. Urinating blood and nervous damage and attack of secondary cancers like lymphoma, leukemia is not ruled out.

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ACUPUNCTURE Could Help You Finally Manage Your Stress Levels

Today's world can fill the very busy individual with a lot of stress. Without some way of removing this stress from your system, you're placing yourself in danger from a lot of stress-related diseases. You might suffer from insomnia or headaches or very serious heart diseases.

You could take anti-stress pills to help you relax but, like me, you might also be worried about the side effects these pills could have. The good news is that you could try acupuncture at least once to see if it could help you manage the stress. It certainly couldn't hurt to try acupuncture if all you're after is stress relief.

Acupuncture - Photo by Wonderlane 

If you find it doesn't work for you, then you can just easily stop taking acupuncture treatments. If it works, though, then you can say you've found a good treatment for stress that doesn't rely on those dangerous chemicals and pills.

How does sticking needles into your body help manage the stress?

In traditional Chinese medicine, much of the treatments depend on an understanding of the balance in our bodies and its internal organs. The sicknesses we sometimes develop are seen to be caused by imbalances in our lifestyles and environment. Stress is also affected by this imbalance. That is why when there is something wrong with your body, you'd typically have less of an ability to deal with stress. You'd get more irritable and find it really to difficult to relax.

By sticking these very thin needles past the surface of our skin, the acupuncturist stimulates nerves in our body. These nerves send signals to our brain and scientists believe that the brain then releases its natural painkillers into our system. This immediately causes a feeling of relaxation for many people.

The needles could also help your body by stimulating its circulation. With the circulation between the organs of the body improved, a lot of the body's wastes could be cleansed properly. Your organs would also receive the full benefit of the oxygen from your lungs making its way into the cells of your body without any blockages. This makes your organs much healthier and leaves you feeling much better in the long term as well.

You can think of a session with the acupuncturist as very much like massage therapy. A good massage would help give you a very relaxing sleep that night and an acupuncturist could help you with your sleep as well. You might immediately start to feel drowsy as soon as the right nerves are stimulated by the acupuncturist's needles.

You might be asking yourself how you'd be able to relax if you're suffering from the pain of the needles attached to your body. What you might not realize is that because of the thinness of the needles, you would hardly feel anything. The most that many people claim they feel is a kind of tingling feeling where the needles are. And that is actually a sign that the process is working,

Acupuncture is a practice that helps you use your bodies' own ability to manage stress properly. This leaves you healthier, and more importantly, prevents any of the serious diseases that could come from unbalanced, stressful lifestyles.

It might not be something to replace regular trips to the doctor but with its many possible benefits, acupuncture might be worth trying out very soon.

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Managing stress through SELF HYPNOSIS

The stress levels of people now are much higher compared before. This is one of the reasons why more and more of them are finding ways to manage stress so as not to affect their overall health. One of the ways that people--especially those that have super stressful jobs--prefer is self hypnosis. This is because the practice can help them relieve and manage stress the most natural means possible.

Why use self hypnosis?

When the word "hypnosis" is mentioned, many people are hesitant to try it because of the common misconception that it can manipulate one to do things beyond his or her wishes. Not many of them realize that this is not always the case. If truth to be told, hypnosis--through self hypnosis--can be one of the best therapeutic tools that a person can use. This is because people can use this in overcoming their fears. It will also be able to help them in withstanding pain and manage varying levels of stress that they experience in their lives.

Nowadays, the horror of hypnosis is being changed because of the rise in awareness in its seemingly endless possibilities by using it in a therapeutic way. In fact, more and more establishments now are quite open to give hypnosis services to people. This is to prove that hypnosis can be a good thing if it is practiced or conducted by a licensed or a professional hypnotist. It is good to take note the are various types of hypnotists. In the industry of hypnosis, types of hypnotists include showroom hypnotists that usually work in bars and clubs and whose subjects are those people whose idea of good time by joining hundreds of people in places where alcohol is used as a social lubricant and clinical hypnotists, on the other hand, are those who deal with people that have problems and those who consider hypnotherapy as a means of relieving pain and overcoming addiction, fear and confusion.

But, if you still don't have enough trust to other people in hypnotizing you because they might cause you to do something without your consent or proper awareness, it is best to conduct self hypnosis. This is because you are quite sure that nobody would try to hurt you or make fun of you since you will be conducting it yourself. Aside from ensuring that you are safe, you will also be able to save lots of time and some money since you won't have to travel all the way to a certain clinic and pay for the services of the hypnotist. All you have to do is do some research and you will learn how to use your own voice during the process.

Self hypnosis as a stress buster 

Many people are finding it best to use self hypnosis as a stress buster because it does not really require so much time, money or effort. In fact, many people would agree that self hypnosis can be one of the easiest means of relieving stress by means of being in a relaxed state where you can directly address the tensions that you feel and somehow trigger your body's response to relaxation. This is helpful to be able to avoid chronic stress that may lead to many health problems. It can also help you achieve a healthier life because it can lead you to develop good habits that can veer you away from activities that have harmful effects not only to your physical body but to your emotional state as well.

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10 Common-sense SELF DEFENSE Tips For Men

For more than 30 years I have been running specialized self defence courses and seminars. Over that time I have shown thousands of people how to protect and look after themselves.

Increasing personal safety ALWAYS commences with awareness.

Since most men may be attacked in almost any situation and for a wide-ranging variety of reasons I offer the following advice.

Here is a list of ten simple things that you can do immediately that will increase your safety:

1 - Most men get involved in physical trouble as a result of saying something rude, offensive, tactless, stupid or hurtful. Controlling what comes out of your mouth can keep it in good shape. Think before you speak.

2 - If a fight breaks out in a bar - leave immediately. Go before all the drunks and brawlers start swinging chairs, bottles, glasses and punches. A "free for all" usually starts with just two protagonists. Innocent bystanders often get hit. Those who leave all the fools to bash each other do not.

3 - NEVER attempt to mediate an argument between a man and a woman. Both will cease arguing or fighting with each other and turn on you - the common enemy. If you fear for the woman's safety, call the police.

4 - Understand that many people these days have a cocktail of drugs and booze in their veins. It makes them argumentative, aggressive and "Mike Tyson-esque." Avoid people who are "off the planet." Even a casual glance at them can set them off. Leave them with their own demons.

5 - Don't make the fatal mistake of thinking that ANYBODY fights "fair" any more. Those days are over - they have been since the John Wayne era! Expect multiple attackers, weapons, possibly both.

6 - The cemeteries are full of dead heroes. Don't add to their number. Run if you can. There is no shame in avoiding a fight. In fact, running away is smart.

7 - Recognize objects in every room of your home that could be used as makeshift weapons. Home invasion is a growing curse these days due to the unwillingness of our governments to protect their citizens.

8 - THIS IS MORE OF A LEGAL WARNING: Understand that if you allow yourself to be placed in a "compromising" position with a woman, particularly one who is "under-age," then the woman's version of events will usually be believed over the man's version. Do not allow yourself to get into such situations.

9 - Negotiation is a far higher art form than physical confrontation. Do anything reasonable to avoid a fight. NOTHING good ever comes out of conflict. War is proof of that.

10 - When all else fails, your back is to the wall and there is absolutely no other alternative left remember... "it is better to be tried by twelve than carried by six."

Remember my opening words - "increasing personal safety ALWAYS commences with awareness." Increase your awareness, mind your manners, know your surroundings and you will certainly improve your safety.

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