Why Try MEDITATING Outside?

Meditating outdoors? Does it really matter where you meditate? I think it can. For some of us, being outside makes for not just a different meditation experience, but a more profound one. There are some good reasons for this.

Perhaps meditating in a quiet room with no sounds and nothing to distract is the easiest way, especially for beginners. It's hard enough to quiet your mind without constant input from your surroundings. On the other hand, life is constant input, so if you want the peacefulness that comes from meditation to enter your life beyond your practice, perhaps learning to meditate despite surrounding sounds and movement is just what you need.

Road Meditation - Photo by Kashirin Nickolai 

Meditating Outdoors

There's a high bank on a river where I lived years ago. It was a five-minute walk from the house. There's a level grassy spot at the top, looking down on the water fifty feet below. That is where I would go to sit. Often there was a breeze I could feel on my skin and hear in the surrounding trees. I also heard the water as it strained through some dead trees near the river bank. I smelled the dirt around me, and the odor of fish coming up from the water.

Meditating there wasn't only pleasurable because of the environment, but also different from meditating in the silence of my home. There was more of a sense of experiencing the world without thought, without over-analyzing. Why? Perhaps simply because there was more to experience. There were the sounds, which included birds, and the occasional splashing of some animal in the river. There were things to smell and the feel of the grass.

I usually close my eyes when I meditate, because I am a very visually-oriented person, and find it easier to meditate this way. When I finished my meditation by the river, I would open my eyes, of course, but what I saw was always different from what was there when I started. Of course, it was the same, but I was seeing it differently, as if for the first time. While difficult to explain, this is easy to recognize if you have had the experience.

It's wonderful to look around as if seeing for the first time. You are seeing without preconception. I might see a deer on the opposite bank of the river, but the thought "deer" wouldn't cross my mind, meaning it wouldn't cloud my vision with any ideas about what a deer is or should be. The sounds and sensations were also "new." I think this more direct experience of life is a profound demonstration of how much we normally "live" through our thoughts, somewhat detached from reality.

If you haven't already tried it, why not get outside for your next meditation? Sit on a hill or in front of a garden, or try standing in front of a lake or pond when you meditate. The view will be wonderful when you open your eyes. There is nothing quite like meditating outdoors.

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Brahma Satya REIKI

Brahma Satya Reiki is a recent evolution of Reiki which originated from India as a result of descent of Shiva-Shakti as Brahma Satya. This descent was said to occur sometime in August of 1997.

It was during this time that Deepak Hardikar was drawn into the waves of this descent in deep meditative states that the brahma sutras, or the universal keys were revealed. Along with this revelation came the existence of the system now known as Brahma Satya Reiki.

In further explaining Brahma Satya Reiki, one must be able to learn and understand its name. “Reiki” is a Japanese word that is the result of joining together of two words. One of the words is “Rei” which means Universal and “Ki” which means the Life Force Energy. As for the Indian origin of the name, “Brahma” means Brahmaan or the Universe and “Satya” means the Truth.

Photo by recubejim

It can be said that “Reiki” is just a similar translation of the original Indian word, “Brahmaprana”. Reiki or Brahmaprana can both be explained as that life force energy which exists all over the universe. It is through that primal energy from which the life forms exist in the entire universe.

Brahma Satya Reik therefore can be further described as the Universal Truth of the Universal Life Force Energy. Through this new type of Reiki method, it is said that Reiki exists in the form of Shakti, Shiva-Shakti and Shiva. These are considered as the three primal energies which are radiated out of the very source of universal existence.

Through this, practitioners believe Reiki as also to refer to the Divine energy. Each of the three primal energies represents the primal vibrations and has their own special and unique characteristics.

The first primal energy, Shakti, is believed to provide inner strength essential for the realization of any type of task. Shiva is said to be the primal energy that is responsible for the completion or dissolution of any task. Shiva-Shakti is said to be that primal energy which combines the two other primal energies of Shiva and Shakti.

Through Shiva-Shakti the two can be considered either as independently functioning energies or also a joint form of these two primal energies. Shiva-Shakti is a very rare form of primal energy that requires inner strength and an intrinsic realization of the inner core knowledge required for the fulfillment and completion of any task.

This intrinsic realization can also result in the feeling of contentment and satisfaction which can bring about a constant experience of bliss. The Brahma Satya Reiki is the only type of the Reiki system that is known to be based upon the Shiva-Shakti.

In general, Brahma Satya Reiki, just like other forms of Reiki that has been developed through the years, is commonly understood as a holistic natural healing system. It is a system that provides individual well-being. It is a system that is very simple to learn and practice. The Brahma Satya Reiki is also considered as a stress relieving relaxation technique. Practice of the said system can effectively help dissolve existing pains and other struggles experienced by individuals.

The practice of Brahma Satya Reiki focuses attention towards the conscious awareness of all factors that essentially cause the pains and struggles that people experience. Brahma Satya Reiki gives importance upon the practical applicability of reiki, be it related to the physical body, emotional issues or the handling of life’s various adverse situations.

This system of reiki also stresses on the long distance method of healing, which is considered as a definite shift from all of the other existing forms of reiki. This aspect of the Brahma Satya Reiki is a distinct advantage in situations where the touch healing aspect of reiki is too difficult to be practically adopted.

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High Blood Pressure and Natural Cure of High BLOOD PRESSURE

Blood pressure is the pressure of blood in your artery. Blood pressure is deliberate in millimeters of mercury. Your blood pressure is recorded as two in order. For instance, 150/95 mmHg. This is thought as '150 over 95'.

High blood pressure is one of numerous 'risk factors' that can add to your chance of rising heart disease, a stroke, and other grave circumstances. As a law, the senior the blood pressure, the better the danger. Treatment includes a change in lifestyle risk factor where these can be better - losing heaviness if you are overweight, usual physical action, a fat diet, cutting rear if you swallow a lot of alcohol, stop smoking, and a short salt and caffeine intake. If wanted, medicine can lower blood pressure.

Risk Factor by High Blood Pressure

a. Hypertension.

b. High cholesterol blood height.

c. High triglyceride blood height.

d. Diabetes.

e. Kidney disease that involves kidney purpose.

Photo by Internet Archive Book Images

Causes of High Blood Pressure

Subsequent are the main cause of high blood pressure:

a. strain and eventful life style

b. smoke and consumption alcohol

c. extreme drinking of tea, coffee, and refined foods

d. harden of the artery

e. Diseases like fatness and diabetes

f. extreme eating of ordinary salt

g. High-fat diet

Symptoms of High Blood Pressure

Subsequent are the main symptoms of high blood pressure:

I. extreme sweeten

II. Red eyes

III. blazing feelings

IV. dizziness and faintness

V. sickness and sickness feelings

VI. ache at the reverse of the head and neck

VII. the ache in the county of the heart

Diet for High Blood Pressure

Alcohol

People with high blood pressure be supposed to not swallow alcohol. While study have established that low levels of alcohol consumption can have defensive belongings for the heart, and can perhaps decrease the danger of rising high blood pressure

Salt

In several people, eating too a lot salt can make high blood pressure greatly worse. In others, the matching salt eating may have no result. The difficulty is that no doctor or scientist can inform which the case is for a creature patient awaiting it is also tardy.

This joint with the information that also a lot salt is awful for the heart anyway of blood pressure rank, income that abridged sodium is a powerfully optional part of a fit diet.

Fats

Soaked fat, particularly trans fats, are bad for together the heart and blood vessels. Since the circulatory system is previously under a bundle of strain in the location of high blood pressure, additional tension can be shocking.

Treatment to Avoid High Blood Pressure

a. subsequent a fit eating pattern

b. achieve and maintain a fit weight

c. sinking salt and sodium in your diet

d. exercise and being lively frequently

e. boundary the use of alcohol

f. eliminate a smoke habit

Home Remedies to Get Relief from High Blood Pressure

a. Garlic is recognized as one of the majority effectual remedies in lower the blood pressure.

b. Press semi a lemon in 100-150 grams of water and drink it each two hours for instant release.

c. Watermelon is defending next to hypertension.

d. get one teaspoonful of fenugreek seeds morning and evening with an unfilled stomach for 20-25 days with water.

e. One or two pieces of garlic rolls in raisin lower blood pressure.

f. Take four foliage of Tulsi and two leaves of Neem with 3-4 teaspoonfuls of water, unfilled belly for 6-7 days.

g. Get new papayas every day on an unfilled stomach for a month frequently to reduce hypertension.

Read Home Remedies for High Blood Pressure and know how to manage and control high BP naturally. Divya Mukta Vati for High Blood Pressure from http://www.swamiramdevmedicines.com  Article Directory: Article Dashboard

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REIKI Timeline

Mikao Usui
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

August 15, 1865, Miako Usui born in Japan

1868 Beginning of Meiji time 

1869 Usui sent to a monastery school 

1871 The Yen became currency in Japan 

1877 Usui began his martial arts training 

1888 After a bout with Cholera, Usui converted to Buddhism 

1908 Usui's son, Fuji, born 

1910 Shoeski Kaneko experienced and enlightenment after studying Zen for years and began using his healing abilities.

1913 Usui's daughter, Toshiko, born 

1915 Kenzen no Genri, a book, came out using Usui's five principles 

1915 Tamai Tempaku, artist of abdominal massage, published a book with this new modality 

1918 Usui began three-year training in Zen 

1919 Mataji Kawakami published a book on the Reiki Ryoho 

1920 Mariko Obaasan met Usui on Mt. Hiel and worked with him every day until his death 

1920 Toshiro Eguchi spent several months studying Usui's principles and teachings

1921 Usui worked as a secretary for the Department of Health and Welfare 

1922 In March, it is said that Usui received the Reiki power. He went to Mt. Koya did his twenty-one-day meditation. 

1922 In April, Usui opened his first treatment center 

1922 Usui tried the Reiju empowerment too

1923 Usui develops system for levels of Judo

1923 Eguchi returned to a training center to practice his own te-no-hira or palm healings

1923 Earthquake registering 7.0 on the Richter Scale, over 106,000 people reported missing, Usui became quick in spreading Reiki all over Japan and gave him success and a reputation

1924 Usui moved to Tokyo 1926 Usui traveled to Fukuyama town and died there due to a stroke

1927 Usui students erect a memorial to him in Tokyo

Mikao Usui brought much into the world when he first realized the healing power of Reiki existed. He used it to help all kinds of people and helped the world after bad weather. He taught many students and passed on his wisdom to the next generation of Reiki scholars.

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What Is Transcendental MEDITATION

Maharishi Mahesh Yogi - Huntsville January 1978 
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Meditation has been practiced for centuries. In the years that followed, various movements have evolved and one of them is called transcendental meditation.

Transcendental meditation was a movement founded in 1957 by a Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Today, it has over 6 million followers and some of them include Hollywood celebrities and singers.

The organization that practices Transcendental Meditation is better known as the Spiritual Regeneration Movement. What makes this form of meditation different from the others is the fact that you don’t just learn everything there is to know by reading a book but by learning from a transcendental meditation expert.

The ultimate goal of Transcendental Meditation is to make each member achieve pure consciousness. By doing so, the individual will be able to find peace with him or herself and also with the rest of the world.

The practice of transcendental meditation takes about 15 to 20 minutes each day. In order to be part of this organization, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi created a seven step process which everyone must go through that also includes two lectures, a personal interview with a trained instructor and four days of practice. Apart from that, you are required to pay a signup fee that is almost $2,500.

More than 500 clinical studies have been done on Transcendental Meditation. One study shows that members who are in their 50’s feel much younger. Another study shows that it improves your academic achievement, creativity, and intelligence.

Those who have been practicing it claim that it reduces problems such as anxiety, insomnia, and stress. Even those who have had addictions to alcohol or drugs in the past say that this has helped them kick the habit.

In short, Transcendental Meditation is able to improve your physical health. Probably the biggest surprise is that one study showed that members of this movement have had fewer medical problems than those who are not.

Given the benefits it can do to those who practice it, this is probably the reason why some companies in the US offer this program to their employees. This is because management knows that stress costs them more than 200 billion dollars annually which means a decrease in the worker’s productivity.

One example of such a company that offers this to their employees is General Motors. This car company has been practicing Transcendental Meditation for several years and results from a study showed that this increased the productivity in the workplace, improved morale and had a good impact on the physical health of their workers.

There are even some who have mistaken Transcendental Meditation and the organization itself to be part of the religious cult. This is because another name by which it is known as the “Science of Creative Intelligence” which in fact is a degree that you can get after you graduate at the Maharishi University of Management in Fairfield, Iowa.

It should also be pointed out that Transcendental Meditation is scientific so you don’t have to abandon your current religion. In fact, it can be done with little effort so it is possible for you to achieve pure consciousness regardless of your age, gender, educational background, culture or religion.

Transcendental Meditation makes you look inward so you are able to turn those dormant potentials into realities. Of course, this can only happen over time and with practice so you will soon be able to experience an endless world of possibilities.

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Using AIKIDO Moves in Practice or in Combat

It only takes a split second whether someone comes out as a victor or a loser in combat. The person can try to remember it, later on, to see what errors were made in order to become a better fighter in the future.

Photo: Wikimedia

Such things also happen in a competition which is why it is best for the student to be familiar with the various Aikido moves at all times.

For instance, in Ai hanmi Iriminage a person grabs the attacker by the neck and forces the opponent to the ground. 

In Ai hanmi Kokyuho, this is similar to the first with the difference of extending the arm a little farther in order to achieve maximum effect.

Should the attacker have a knife, a good aikido move to use is called Katate Ryotemochi in which the individual uses both hands to block the weapon used by the attacker and disarming it before putting the person on the ground.

If the individual is able to get behind the attacker, perhaps doing Ushiro Ryokatatori will be a good idea. This will allow the student to grab both shoulders of the person. Should the individual be tough, perhaps applying Ushiro Kubishime, which will temporarily cut the air supply until the assailant is unconscious, is the best thing to do?

Not all the aikido moves being taught are just to block and the make the person fall to the ground. There are also striking moves such as Kata Menuchi in which the hand makes a slice to the middle of the forehead. Those who don’t want to inflict a concussion can try Mune Tsuki, which is a strike to the chest.

A good move for the leg is the Aiki Otoshi better known in English as a leg sweep. This will surely keep the person down especially when that attacker thinks that all the student can do is use the arms when defending.

Once the attacker has been subdued, it will be safer to keep the attacker locked in a Sankyo hold. This technique is used by police, which is very useful when the police are on the way to the location.  

There are more than 10 different moves in Aikido. The person should be able to distinguish one from the other especially when the terms are all in Japanese. It will be the choice of the individual which one to use when one is engaged in combat.

The first step in learning this martial art will be to enroll in a dojo. The person can look at the directory to find the nearest one to the home and then choose to sign up if the rates are affordable. 

The student will then be taught the rules, how to wear the uniform and then the proper moves in each stroke. The individual should not expect to get it right on the first day but eventually do better in the coming days. 

The person should remember that Aikido, unlike other martial arts, can only be used for defensive purposes. Usually, when the suspect has failed in the attack, this person will run so the individual should not give chase but rather get help.

It is only with practice sparring with a partner or even doing the same thing in a competition that both the mind and the body can be conditioned to engage an attacker in combat. 

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Home Remedies For Yeast Infections That Are All Natural - NATURAL CURE

Candidiasis is a fungal infection commonly know as thrush or yeast infection. It affects mouth and throat areas, genitals, intestinal tracts, and urinary systems. Mild infections mostly cause irritating discomfort and are often treated at home using traditional natural cures, rather than stronger prescription medicines. Natural treatments for yeast infection fall into two categories; those which actually fight the fungus, and those which bring some relief to the symptoms.

Amongst home cures for yeast infections, caprylic acid is a simple anti-fungal solution that may be taken to fight infections in the digestive tract. A similar cure is citrus seed extracts, sometimes known as Citricidal.

Another liquid with anti-fungal properties, as well as antiviral and antibacterial qualities, is Oil of Oregano. It can be taken orally with a few drops placed under the tongue, for mouth and throat infections. It can also be applied topically to infected areas.

Ozone Therapy is a simple natural remedy that can kill parasites. Ozone therapy may be self administered, but a more powerful and effective treatment may be given by a doctor, so it's worth talking to your health advisor.

Hydrastis canadensis
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Goldenseal Tea (Hydrastis Canadensis) not only has anti-fungal properties, it encourages the growth of friendly bacteria due to the presence of berberine. It may be drunk as an ordinary tea, as well as be used for vaginal douching. Oregon Grape Root is another anti-fungal tea, but this is only applied as a vaginal douche.

Boric acid and hydrogen peroxide both kill vaginal yeast infections. Boric acid is supplied in capsules to be used as a suppository, hydrogen peroxide is used as a vaginal douche by mixing a teaspoon of 3% solution in a cup of water.

Yeast infections, even when mild, cause a lot of irritating discomfort, but there are plenty of traditional home medicine cures that can bring relief. Aloe vera gel can be placed on infected external areas, for both males and females, using a cotton ball. Aloe Vera Juice can be taken orally as well as used externally.

Calendula cream and flaxseed oil cream are both soothing agents that are useful for all yeast infection symptoms on external areas, such male and female private parts.

Slippery Elm Powder is mixed with a bit of water to make a paste that may be applied topically, it's effective for general skin irritation and penis yeast infections. Vitamin E oil can be applied for painful and burning infections on male and female genitalia, as well as being applied to itchy skin.

A solution particularly effective for a male yeast infection, but effective for women too, is a sitz bath. One kind of sitz bath is made by adding a few drops of tea tree oil to a hip-level tub of warm water.

Another well known therapy for yeast infections is yogurt. This can provide some soothing effect to infected areas, but it also leaves the treated zone in a condition that is inhospitable to the yeast infection, so it prevents its spreading and can eliminate small infections. 

Article Directory: Article Dashboard

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The Most Common Food ALLERGIES

* Milk *

Being allergic to cow’s milk isn’t the same as being lactose intolerant.

* Eggs *

You can be allergic to either the whites of the yolk. This type of food allergy is more prevalent in

children, but does affect some adults.

Food types likely to cause allergic reactions in adults in Sweden: drupe, cheese, nuts, wine, apples, and shellfish.
 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

* Peanut *

Most people, adults, and children with food allergies, are allergic to peanuts too.

* Tree nut *

More children have nut allergies than adults. The symptoms of nut and peanut allergies are the same, but being allergic to one doesn’t necessarily mean you’re allergic to the other.

* Seafood *

This is more common in, but not limited, to children. The fish allergens can be passed through the air by people eating or cooking fish near you.

* Shellfish *

Similar to seafood allergies. But having one doesn’t mean being allergic to the other.

* Soy *

People allergic to soy need to be especially careful when eating Asian foods or using Asian sauces.

* Wheat *

This is most commonly a food allergy, but can also be a respiratory contact allergy.

In the United States these are referred to as "the big eight". Over 90% of U.S. food allergies consist of

these foods.

Allergens differ in other countries, but these 8 make the top 10 in many places through out the world.

Food allergies may be based on contact. In East Asia where rice makes up a large part of the diet, rice

allergies are more common, as are celery allergies in Central Europe.

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Public Speaking HYPNOSIS

Public speaking hypnosis can help people with a presentation, talk, best man's speech or work meeting anxiety to feel confident and calmer. Speaking to a group of people of any size is one of the most common phobias and fears.

Public speaking is considered to be the act of communicating with a group of people whose number can range from two to tens of thousands. Some people relish the idea of giving a presentation, talk, leading a meeting, giving that wedding speech. These people like to be the center of attention and enjoy getting the chance to perform in front of others.

Speaking to groups for many people is a constant source of anxiety and dread. Public speaking for them it is something to be avoided at all costs.

Typically someone with a speaking phobia or fear will experience an adrenalin rush, heart palpitation, sweating, shaking, a voice that cracks and a loss of memory. A previous bad experience of speaking in public is usually found to be the cause of the current feelings of dread about giving a speech or presentation.

helps a person who suffers from these "fight or flight" feelings to feel calmer and more relaxed. Hypnosis helps to change how a person thinks about public speaking. It helps them to construct positive and successful images of themselves giving a speech to others that are attractive and encouraging rather than one of fear or failure.

It is more often the dread prior to giving the speech that makes it hard for someone to face up to give the presentation.

Some people will feign sickness or even resign from their job because the fear of having to speak in front of others is so overwhelming that they will literally do anything to get out of it. Others will not apply for that new job or promotion because they know the new role will involve taking meetings, giving training or speaking in front of groups. A public speaking phobia can, therefore, limit a persons' career progression.

Fortunately, it can be comforting to know that many people who have suffered from a public speaking fear do get over it. Indeed they can progress to well with feeling confident and calm about giving a speech that they not only look forward to doing it but also start to volunteer to do it.

If you are fed up with suffering from nerves, dread, fears and anxiety from even the thought of speaking in front of others at work, socially or on other occasions, you no longer need to suffer. One of the most effective methods for overcoming your fears and feeling confident is public speaking hypnosis.

Steven Harold Public speaking hypnosis help Hypnotherapy Shrewsbury

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MYSTERIES: Temple of Jupiter – Optimus Maximus

City of Rome during time of republic. (Photo credit: Wikipedia) 

The Temple of Jupiter is the important temple from the Ancient Rome that was founded to honor the Arch-God Capitoline Triad, Juno, Minerva and Jupiter during 509 BC. This is situated in the peaks of Capitoline hill. Tarquinius Priscus who reigned during the 616 to 578 BC is said to have consecrated this temple of Jupiter, but according to traditions it is assumed that the major construction work of the Temple was done by Tarquinius Superbus.

Model - (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Archaeologists have reconstructed this temple and given the rectangular Greek appearance with the few traces which remained. At some locations one can have a look at the remnants of the Roman feature (podium). On every year beginning that is on the 1st of January the new elected consuls take the offices with a colorful ceremony. The white sheep is sacrificed to the God Jupiter on every month of Ides. There will also be a special annual festival at the temple during the special ides in September. 

In this festival there will be a huge banquet for the Romans wherein the 3 Gods statues participate. It got burnt during the 83 BC and the remains can be seen even today over and across the Conservators palace.

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MEDICINE REIKI, A Perfect Union Of East And West

The bear and the eagle, Father Sun, and Mother Earth. Nope, this is not an animal or environmental write-up. But rather, this short write-up is about Native American medical practices and how it can be combined with another Eastern technique called Reiki to come up with a healing method that channels the life force energies of everything that surrounds us.

Reiki - Photo by eylon 

Practitioners refer to this as Medicine Reiki, a technique which combines the medicinal approaches of Native Americans and the rather spiritual approaches of Japanese Reiki. 

But medicine Reiki was not created to surpass any other forms of Reiki but it was created because of a realization that there is a way to broaden and deepen the understanding of the energy that binds us all together. It can be seen as a natural course of action, from a general concept as Reiki, to more specialized forms like medicine Reiki. 

By integrating Native American concepts of healing, beliefs, and practices to the knowledge of channeling the life force energy of Reiki, healing takes place faster than when using regular Reiki or ordinary Native American medicines alone. How so, you might ask? The answer all lies on how these two elements work. 

We take medicines to heal our physical ailments. But because medicines heal only the physical aspects of our body, the possibility of the illness or disease striking twice is not that far off. Medicines offer merely temporary relief.  Reiki, on the other hand, is an encompassing discipline which targets the physical, mental, spiritual and mental aspects of our existence. Reiki practitioners use the infinite energy that surrounds us, channels that energy and allow it to flow to anyone or anything that needs healing.

By combining these two elements of healing, you"ll get medicine energy that heals beyond its normal capacity. The combination heals both the physical state and the inner dispositions of the body faster as well. 

The concept of medicine Reiki is relatively new. It was K'sitew who founded this branch of Reiki in the late 90s. From then on it grew and the practice expanded to include other energies. 

The good thing about medicine Reiki is that it can only be used for healing. Unlike when taken alone, medicines can be good and bad, a dualistic energy source. Reiki is a monadic energy which means it is only good energy thus cannot do any harm. When Reiki is integrated with medicine, the dualistic energy of the latter is converted into a monadic energy resulting to a positive form of energy whose only capacity is to heal and not damage or hurt someone.

What also makes medicine Reiki different is that the healing process is done in groups or in small communities. Participation of the community is necessary during the healing sessions creating a closer bond between individuals which is great for sharing energy. The closer the bonds between the members of the group, the greater the energy flows within the group, the better and faster the healing process. 

Since the founding of this Reiki technique, more healing methods have developed which draws its origins from Native American medicines.

And as long as practitioners exist, this Reiki healing technique will continue to grow and expand bringing forth new healing methods or techniques that will help people challenge their health and energy levels.

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MEDITATION technique for different environments

There are people who have good sense of focus and concentration. They have the ability to stabilize their mind no matter what kind of environment they are into. However, there are also people who seem to be always disturbed. They can hardly concentrate, thus, affecting their judgment and quality of work. Meditation is a good aid for these types of people. During meditation, mental space is created in order to achieve a certain degree of enlightenment. 

The effects of meditation to different people also vary. These could be affected by factors such as the mood, character and individuality. When a person hardly understands himself, his confusion reflects to his actions. That is why contemplation is necessary in order to achieve an enlightened consciousness.

A quiet space conducive for reflection, a mantra to be recited and absolute concentration are the essentials of meditation. While sitting meditation is considered the basic and most efficient form of meditation, there are other ways to modify the process. On the whole, you can only create other forms of meditation when you become habituated with the practice. When your mind had been set for meditation, it will be easy for you to stay tuned-up. Plus, you can integrate the spiritual essence and mental awareness with the physical and mental rhythms of life. 

As meditation becomes part of your routine, you will always find time to stop and make a connection with the process of meditation. Naturally, you will seek the blissful state that you can experience only when meditating.   

So what should you do when the place you are into is not conducive for meditation? There are ways to establish focus and concentration. You can capture your mind to be in the meditation state when you direct your attention to a spot in the room, or listen attentively to your breathing or focus on a small object. With the help of a relaxing music and tricky colors, you can employ meditation and extend such practice even beyond the meditation period. 

Active people such as athletes need to stay focused in their skill or art while staying grounded. However, their physical ability could be more enhanced if they are in touch with their higher consciousness. A famous female boxer revealed that in her violent and aggressive profession, she never fails to meditate and chant. 

She constructed her own way of escaping the gym atmosphere in order to find peace within. She listens to the sound of the speed bag as she hits it one way. There is a distinct sound for a one-way blow and the sound varies with the difference in the impact of glove. Then all she had to do is close her eyes and meditate on the sound of the speed bag. 

Even a basketball player can employ meditation at the free throw line if he is able to transcend the noise of the crowd and the pressure of the play. In this manner, he can manage stress and anxiety while connecting to his meditation process. 

Be creative in modifying your own way of meditation. Break your patterns and make your imagination work.

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Related articles

• Meditation at Home: A Space for Stillness(builddirect.com)

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• 6 Reasons Why Men Should Meditate(health.usnews.com)

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KUNG FU: History And Basic Principles

Shaolin kung fu (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Term:

Historically, the term “Kung Fu” is not really featured in any ancient texts. It was first coined by a Frenchman named Jean Joseph Marie Amiot, a missionary who lived in the 18th Century, in reference to Chinese martial arts. Kung Fu is also called Gongfu, Wushu, or Kuoshu, and originally denotes expertise in any skill, and not exclusive to martial arts.

Brief History:

The practice, philosophy, and concept of Kung Fu can be traced back to ancient Chinese texts such as Zhuang Zi, Dao De Jing, and Sun Zi Bing Fa (Art of War written by Sun Zi), all written between 1111-255 BC. These texts contain passages related to the practice, propagation, and principles of Chinese martial arts, or Kung Fu as it is known today.

One theory regarding the first written history of Kung Fu suggests that the Yellow Emperor, who reigned from 2698 BC, wrote the first treatise on Chinese martial arts. Others give credit to Taoist monks for introducing an art form that resembles modern Tai Chi around 500 BC. Then in 39-92 AD, Pan Ku included "Six Chapters of Hand Fighting" in his discourse on the history of the Han dynasty (Han Shu). As the popularity of martial arts progressed, a physician named Hua Tuo also wrote his own treatise entitled, “Five Animals Play" in 220 AD.

Kung Fu had become a common word in the West beginning in the late 1960s, popularized by martial arts movies and TV series. The Western world today has also seen an immense upsurge in the creation and production of martial arts movies starring great actors/masters such as Jackie Chan and Jet Li.

Basic Principles:

The concept of Kung Fu revolves around three basic principles – Motivation, Self-discipline and Time.

According to experts, the real motivation behind learning Kung Fu is an inspiration and not force, which should come from an inner craving to learn and develop the mind and body. The motivation here is the fundamental driving force. There is no external or worldly gain for the learner, and the only reward is that of knowledge, skill, strength, and wisdom.

In Kung Fu, discipline is complementary to motivation. Discipline puts motivation into deed and action. A learner has to make an effort into what he has been motivated for, and self-discipline helps him get started and guides him to achieve that goal. Therefore, without discipline, motivation is just a dormant state of mind.

Time is the path to perfection in martial arts. Once motivation and self-discipline have set in, a learner has to spend a considerable amount of time putting mind and body into practice. A truly inspired learner does not have the privilege to waste time, stay idle or indulge in fruitless activities. Everything done by him/her should reflect real motivation and self-discipline.

Variants and Styles:

With the passage of time, numerous variants and styles have come up in martial arts, or Kung Fu. Some of the more popular ones include Karate, Escrima, Wing Chun, Jujitsu, Judo, Tae Kwon Do, Shaolin, White Crane, T'ai Chi Ch'uan, and Bagua Zhang.

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Types of Surgeries as Treatments for SNORING

Snoring is known to be the end result of the vibration happening in the upper airway which includes parts such as the throat, mouth and the nose. Due to blockages, turbulence is caused during respiration. While we breathe virtually the whole day, we only snore at night because our muscle tone is very much reduced at sleeping which encourages the collapse of these tissues. Plus, the relaxed muscles are incapable of preventing themselves from a collision.

A picture of my bifid uvula. Also sometimes called split or cleft uvula. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Snoring can basically originate anywhere from the nose down to the vocal chords. Recently, researchers found out that the tongue plays certain roles in causing and aggravating one's scores.

Snoring is involuntary, so there's no use of trying to control it at will. It cants also be cured using simple measures. However, it can be controlled by means of various devices and techniques.

However, when snoring becomes too difficult for a commonly applied method to handle, it could be the right idea to check on surgical methods to deal with it. There are various surgical procedures to correct this sleeping problem. But not all may be used in all cases.

Sometimes, the thorough evaluation of the physical and physiological factors must be rendered before an otolaryngologist would come up with the most effective measures. Otolaryngologists are the specialists on problems directly related to the throat, mouth and the nose.

Another known treatment for snoring is the Tongue Suspension Procedure or Repose. This works by inserting a small screw under the tongue into the jaw. This way, the tongue will be prevented from falling back during sleep. While many reports of its effectivity in controlling the cause of snores, most physicians agree that this is an irreversible option so careful thinking is an evaluation.

For snorers whose main cause of snoring is the nose, nasal surgery is most likely to find the solution. While it is considered, in general, as a cosmetic type of surgery too few can deny that it actually works for problematic snoring.

This method is also used for patients who are suffering from deviated nasal septum. This doesn't only help the snorer during his sleep but can also add comfort in breathing during the day.

The LAUP or Laser-Assisted Uvulopalatoplasty is the advanced modification of the traditional treatment called Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty or UPPP. This procedure works by cutting the uvula (which is the dangling part that most often than not causes the obstruction of the air passage) that is located at the rear part of the roof of the mouth. This procedure works best when the persistent problem lies on the uvula.

Radio Frequency Tissue Ablation, also known as Somnoplasty, is a relatively new technique approved by the Food and Drug Administration. This also basically removes parts of the uvula.

While there is not much data published in relation with Coblation-Channeling, we are for certain that this method employs the principle of removing any tissue that obstructs the air passage by means of radio frequency. On some cases, tissues are fully removed when the need arises.

Surgery as treatment for snoring must be taken as the last resort when everything else you've tried failed. Before diving into an option, be sure that you are completely evaluated of the actual causes of your condition. Ensure yourself also that you have the best doctor in your spectrum of choices.

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Nine Facts About FIBER

If you've been looking for a way towards a high octane diet, you'll find fiber to be exactly what you need.  Even though research has shown fiber to be powerful, many people aren't taking this nutrient seriously.

To help you fuel your health with fiber, here are 10 facts to help.

1.  Fiber fights diseases.  A diet high in fiber can help to prevent colon cancer and heart disease.  High

fiber helps the body to eliminate cholesterol by binding it in the digestive tract.  For thousands of years, fiber has been used to stop constipation.

2.  Fiber can actually help with overeating.  All high fiber foods will take longer to chew and digest, making you feel satisfied longer

3.  Most popular foods don't have enough fiber.  If you like the more popular foods, you probably need to increase your intake of fiber.

4.  Grains offer the most fiber.  Dietary fiber is actually plant matter that we cannot digest.  The best sources are whole grains and concentrated grain products.  

5.  Kids need fiber as well.  Children that are older than 2 years of age should consume a daily intake of fiber.  Kids are most receptive to fiber found in  fruits, vegetables, and even fortified breakfast cereals.  

6.  More fiber needs more water.  In order to keep fiber moving through your digestive tract, you'll need to consume a lot of water.  With your diet of fiber, you'll need eight or more glasses of water every day.

7.  Fiber cannot be cooked out.  When you cook your fruits and vegetables, don't worry about cooking

the fiber out, as it stays.  The fiber found in fruits and vegetables aren't just in the skin or in the peel.

8.  You can get enough fiber.  If you eat more than 50 grams of fiber in a day, you can get diarrhea and bloating, which can interfere with your body's absorption of other key minerals.

9.  Getting the right amount of fiber in your diet doesn't have to be hard.  Even though you may think so, getting the amount of fiber you need isn't very hard to do.  All you have to do is eat the right foods and you'll be well on your way to a fiber rich lifestyle.

As one of the key ingredients to healthy eating,  fiber is something you don't want to skip.  Fiber can

serve many different purposes, which were covered above.  If you aren't getting enough fiber in your 

diet - you should do something about now instead of waiting until it is too late.

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A Brief Overview Of HYPNOSIS

Hypnosis is a state in which conscious sleep is induced. The process of hypnosis involves a hypnotist and a subject (a person on whom Hypnosis is performed). The primary requirement for Hypnosis is it must be accepted by the subject. And then under the effect of Hypnosis, the subject is allegedly more recipient to suggestions and has greater access to his or her memories and emotions.

Professor Jean-Martin Charcot teaching at the Salpêtrière in Paris, France: showing his students a woman ("Blanche" (Marie) Wittman) in an trance or shock.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

In a nutshell, hypnosis is the sleep of the nervous system. So there is a decrease in the rate of respiration, decrease in blood circulation thus sluggish brain waves. Under the normal consciousness, the brain waves are at Beta wave level. However, with hypnosis, brain waves slow down to alpha waves than to theta waves. Delta waves are brain waves possible in children, & generally, no adult can experience the slowing down to delta wave level.

Use of Hypnosis has been applied from the clinic to classroom and police station to any public place. The characteristics of Hypnosis are deep concentration and great relaxation. Hypnosis has a strange reputation. Freud, the father of repression, earlier used to practice hypnosis in therapy; he then stopped the use of hypnosis.

However, hypnosis is still popular. And it is safe.

The Hypnosis can be useful in addictions, pain relief, weight control, fear, quit smoking. However, the success of hypnosis depends greatly on acceptance of subject.

Under the effect of Hypnosis, the subject gets accessibility to his unconscious and subconscious mind, repressed memories even past life memories. There are lots of misconceptions regarding Hypnosis. It is considers as ‘Black Magic’ by some people. Science simply does not accept it. But Hypnosis exists.

What is Hypnosis?

It is a method that allows you to use your own inner power and hidden capabilities (the capabilities that you even don’t believe you possess). And:

• It can help you in getting freedom from phobias or anxieties.

• It can help you get rid of bad habits like eating unhealthy, smoking etc.

What Hypnosis is not?

• It is not possible even by any expert to take control of your mind using Hypnosis. Your permission- acceptance is a must.

• Hypnosis can not make you tell secrets.

• Hypnosis is not dangerous.

• It is not ‘Black-Magic’ or any magic!

You can relate Hypnosis with trance, dream. You can be in trance unconsciously. You can be in a trance while just lying on the bed or while traveling through familiar route while reading a book while seeing the movie. Hypnosis is similar trance so you need not fear of same. It brings you great relaxation.

Hypnosis can be used for:

1. Pin control

2. Weight control

3. Healthy eating

4. Helping you stop smoking or other habits

5. Overcoming phobias & anxieties

6. Suppressing pain during medical procedures

7. And more…

Hypnosis comes to your help in case some normal point of view or logical thinking becomes a barrier in solving any problem of yours. It frees you from problems you want to while in a conscious or subconscious state. Refer to this brief overview of Hypnosis for help to improve the quality of your life and the lives of your family, friends, and others.

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