Depression is something that affects most people around the world from time to time and can be very hard to deal with. I have myself struggled with this problem in the past but have lately found ways to cope with this very much unwanted depression. I will write about how I go about doing this in this article.
I have been born into a family which include many members who find it hard to cope with life and are often worrying about something or other. I am one of these people and there does not seem to be a day that goes by where I do not have some issue in my mind, that is making me unhappy or stressed. I have found it very difficult to appreciate all of the things in my life which are basically good as my brain only seems to focus on all of my problems or potential problems.
In the last couple of years I have tried to deal with these what I now call challenges and have attempted to focus more on the positive aspects to my life. This has been very hard for me to do as I am a born worrier by nature as I have already explained.
What I now have decided to do is to try to compare my own life with that of other people who live around the world. As an example, in the last couple of days I have been watching the news programs on the television and have been hearing in horror about the current situation in Iraq. I am sure most readers of this article will be aware of what is going on in Iraq but a couple of events have really shocked me.
The first was a roadblock that was set up by people who were dressed up in police uniform. These people stopped a number of vehicles and dragged out the people who were in the vehicles, onto the street. They included young and old, men and women from what I have heard. Twenty one of them were shot and killed. I can only imagine how frightening this would have been.
The second event took place only the next day when fifty people were taken from their place of work and from bus stops. They were basically kidnapped and taken away in a number of vehicles. I am not sure what has happened to them since and can only hope that they are OK. This again is very disturbing and would have been a horrible ordeal for the people involved.
I am no expert on the situation in Iraq or why all of these things are taking place. I also have no idea on how things can be improved, but something needs to happen to help these people.
For me it shows me that I am very fortunate and if I ever start feeling a bit low, I then think of the people who live in Iraq and also people who live in other countries. I am sure that most of these people would love to swap places with me and if I tried to explain to them why I was starting to feel a little depressed, they would probably laugh at me.
Would it surprise you to know that your self-esteem (the value you place on yourself) determine whether you reach your goals or not?
The opposite is equally true: Setting and achieving realistic goals will boost your self-esteem substantially. Don't believe me? Just think about the last time you struggled to master a new skill. At the very point of exasperation, when you are at your wits end, if you persevere despite being sorely tempted to give up... Suddenly, miraculously, it all falls into place...
Did you feel smart, surprised, rewarded, fulfilled, elated and as if you were going to explode with pride? Did you feel like you could easily build on this achievement? That's how you'll feel every time you set and achieve a personal goal. It will be even more satisfying if you focused your energies purposefully onto achieving something specific and concrete.
"Dare to dream! If you did not have the capability to make your wildest wishes come true, your mind would not have the capacity to conjure such ideas in the first place. There is no limitation on what you can potentially achieve, except for the limitation you choose to impose on your own imagination. What you believe to be possible will always come to pass - to the extent that you deem it possible. It really is as simple as that?" Anthon St. Maarten
People who dare to dream know that setting and achieving goals, however small and insignificant, boost their confidence on a day to day basis. Each time you achieve a purposefully set objective, your confidence in your own ability grows.
Although I knew about, and even occasionally used the goal setting procedure, I severely underestimated the potential of this powerful method. Too much hassle, I thought. I have since been converted, not only by my own experience, but also by the overwhelmingly positive reaction from my clients.
Your self-esteem, awareness, ability to communicate, energy and responsibility can all be amplified by your use of goal setting. Developing and maintaining our self-esteem is one of the challenges every one faces sooner or later. Confidence comes from knowing that we can successfully complete what we set out to do. It results from experience, the experience of meeting our goals effectively. We must have some way to evaluate an experience, some way to know whether it was valuable or not. This is where goal-setting comes in. Setting realistic goals, working toward them and finally achieving them are superb learning experiences.
We feel good about ourselves when we meet our goals. Which in turn makes it easier for us to reach our next goals, and so the effect soon snow-balls.
But how does one set achievable goals?
How to set and achieve any goal
Perhaps our very human essence is oriented towards the achievement of goals. Human endeavour is measured by some of its greatest achievements. What do you want to achieve? Without a set of key goals life can become a case of living randomly from day to day. Any goal whether a small one en-route to achieving a key goal, or indeed a key goal should be SMART.
SMART GOALS are:
-Specific: State each goal as a positive unambiguous statement
-Measurable: Break the key goal down to measurable small steps
-Attainable: Make sure it fits in with your current work, family and financial commitments
-Relevant and Realistic: Physically and mentally possible
-Time bound: Aim to achieve the various stages of your goal according to a preconceived timescale
Specific - Setting detailed and precise objectives
State each goal as an unambiguous, positive statement. The process of reaching goals includes an initial evaluation, frequent reviews, and progress checks. Goals should be set down in specific terms so they appear as crystallized pictures in the mind rather than fuzzy apparitions on the horizon. "I have to loose weight" sounds like a project of enormous proportions with nowhere to start. Setting a more concrete, short-term goal is more effective. For example, decide that at the end of two weeks you will have lost 2 kg. This is a more a more specific, practical, and therefore attainable goal. What precisely do you want to achieve? I want to be an Olympic competitor is not a performance goal; it's actually the outcome of a goal. Check that you objectives are specific and not just outcomes.
Measurable - Structuring goals that can be measured
So you want to walk for exercise... good! What does measured success look like? How far and how often do you want to walk? How would you know that you remain en-route to success and how would you prove this to yourself? You will need to break the key goal down to measurable small steps, like deciding you will walk 5 km 5 days out of 7. The best way to keep track of your achievements and progress towards your key goal is to keep an exercise diary.
Achievable - Is this objective practically possible?
By ensuring your goals are achievable I am not suggesting that you seek to downgrade them so that they become too easy to achieve. Instead you should check what you are aiming to achieve against the other demands on your time, finances and talent. Keep the low-level goals you are working towards small and achievable. If a goal is too large, then it can seem that you are not making progress towards it. Keeping goals small and incremental gives more opportunities for reward. Derive today's goals from larger ones. Set priorities: When you have several goals, give each a priority. This helps you to avoid feeling overwhelmed by too many goals, and helps to direct your attention to the most important ones. Organization and prioritizing are imperative to the success of the true achiever. Attending to the most important items on your "TO DO" list will result in maximum productivity. Less essential items can be ticked off as time permits. Plan the work and then work the plan.
Relevant and Realistic - Are you being honest with yourself?
Is it realistic to learn the piano to concert pianist level? Is it realistic to target yourself to rune a mufti-million pound corporation? Do you have the right personality; can you manage the pressure and worry when things are not quite going to plan? This is the essence of realistic. Set performance goals, not outcome goals: You should take care to set goals over which you have as much control as possible. There is nothing more dispiriting than failing to achieve a personal goal for reasons beyond your control. If you base your goals on personal performance, then you can keep control over the achievement of your goals and draw satisfaction from them. It is important to set goals that you can achieve. All sorts of people (trainers, parents, media, and society) can set unrealistic goals for you. They will often do this in ignorance of your own desires and ambitions. Alternatively you may set goals that are too high, because you may not appreciate either the obstacles in the way, or understand quite how much skill you need to develop to achieve a particular level of performance.
Time bound- has a starting date and an ETA
You should aim to achieve the various stages of your goal according to a preconceived timescale. Unless you build these parameters into your goals you could end up paralysed by procrastination and end up more frustrated and un-focused than before you started. Set a precise goal, putting in dates, times and amounts so that you can measure your achievement. If you do this, you will know exactly when you have achieved the goal and celebrate your accomplishment, and can take complete satisfaction from having achieved it. Formulate short, medium and long-term goals.
Plotting out your goals in this manner will make you aware of the skills, financial aid and time you will need along the way. Develop short and mid-term goals to help you build those skills. You will begin to make decisions based on whether or not those choices will be beneficial to your long-term goals. If you just drift along in the sea of choices, allowing the tide of every day life to chart your course, it would only be by co-incidence that you will reach your destination or even recognize it when you arrive. As you achieve each step, however small towards your goal, your confidence will grow and solidify.
"Perfection of effort is not required, by the way. It is the consistency of attempting to work these tools that brings the progress. It's like anything else. If I want to tone muscle, lifting a ten-pound weight a few times every day will move me toward my goal much quicker than hoisting a fifty-pound barbell once a week. Yes, it really is true: "Slow and steady wins the race." Just try a little, every day. You'll see." Holly Mosier
By M Montagu
"It has been my life long dream to create a safe, stress-less, secluded and supportive space where people of all ages can come to rest, re-focus and figure out who they are, what they really want and how the are going to get it - with the help of my always-intuitive and ever-inspiring horses." Dr. Margaretha Montagu is a medical doctor with many years of experience in helping people live healthier lives by reducing their stress levels, increasing their self-confidence, reaching their full potential and and defining their life's purpose. Join us on a residential retreat in the sun-blessed south of France based on equine-assisted experiential learning, equine guided meditation and equine inspired therapeutic writing. EquineGuidedGrowth.com
Article Source: EzineArticles
Relaxation and meditation may feel similar sometimes yet a line can be drawn between the two.
Let me share an experience. I decide it's time to have a meditation practice - for whatever reason or for no reason at all except it's time to sit. After 1 minute of sitting in an upright posture my mind is drawn to my tight shoulders. The muscles are screaming - "Please release me. I've been trying to get your attention for a long time."
Relaxation supports a meditation practice. We need silent muscles.
Meditation is a practice that ultimately helps us get a handle on the mind. A mindfulness meditation practice makes us aware of the mind. We may realize it is busy or heavy; scattered or focused. Or it could be dull or alert. The key is awareness; being aware of the quality of the mind without judging.
Relaxation as a practice is usually done lying at the end of a yoga class. The pose is called Shavasana- the corpse pose. The intention is to release tension in the muscular and the psycho-physiological system. The pose develops awareness of the body.
Practice of both relaxation and meditation can be formal or informal. With a formal practice there will be a time period. We might practice every morning before the regular activities. Or at night before going to sleep to help us unwind.
An informal practice occurs as we go about our day. We notice our shoulders creeping up to our ears and move them down. Or feel our hands in fists and soften them. It's an awareness of the body that grows out of the formal practice.
The same is true for the mind. We notice thoughts like a pattern of being critical, or the beginning of anxiety. We accept what is and have a choice to create a new thought or simply witness feelings and thoughts.
Mind versus Body
Life happens and sometimes the body may be forced to be inactive because of an injury. The mind however remains as active and engaged as before and now we notice. In this situation, if the formal practice of meditation is new, being inactive and having a scattered mind might be disconcerting.
Relaxation and meditation practices both help us befriend the body and mind. Our awareness and appreciation for these parts of ourselves deepen and we experience more of our inner world.
By Heather Greaves
Heather Greaves is an avid yoga student and the owner of Body Therapies Yoga Training. She organizes yoga and meditation retreats and workshops in Ontario and Barbados, and has been helping yoga enthusiasts learn to teach therapeutic yoga in a certified program. For more yoga tips or to sign up for our monthly newsletter visit http://www.yogatogo.com
Article Source: EzineArticles
Reiki which is pronounced as Ray Key is a holistic healing system that uses universal energy to heal an individual. In order for this to work, you have to be trained by a Reiki master. Since its rediscovery in the early 1900's, various forms have evolved and some of them use Reiki music.
Reiki music is used to create calm and peaceful atmosphere in order for the healing to take place. This is available for download while some retailers sell these in CD online. One example of this is Shamballa that is often used by seasoned spiritual travelers.
For those who have never done a Reiki session with music before, it is recommended to use one with gentle tunes first before trying out something more diverse. If the site you are visiting allows you to hear a sound clip, try it out so you have an idea where the music can take you.
Do you really need to use Reiki music during a healing session? The answer is no because meditation music or any other kind may also work as long as it is designed for relaxation purposes.
As much as possible, the recording should last for about 60 to 75 minutes which is the average time it takes to feel energized after a session.
Just like a regular session without music, you can tell if it is working when you feel different sensations throughout your body. An individual who feels down will afterwards experience an emotional release or relief.
Once you have found the right Reiki music, you can put it on and then simply sit or lie down in a comfortable position. You then place your hands over your face with the palms over the eyes, touch the tongue to the roof of the mouth with the tip of your tongue just behind the teeth. Remember to inhale and let the energy flow into your body and then let it go out along your arms and out through your face.
The same slow movement should be done with the other parts of the body so you wake up feeling refreshed and recharged.
Reiki wouldn't be around for more than a hundred years if it is not able to help those recover from emotional disturbances and addictions
In fact, various studies have been conducted and results have shown that patients are able to recover faster after surgery. This is the reason that there are more hospitals and clinics that have started to practice Reiki even before an operation to help them relax.
Those who worship Christianity have also embraced Reiki because its methods help them express compassion towards others and bring them closer to God. This is because Jesus healed with his hands and so is the hand healing technique used in Reiki that has made this very appealing.
Anyone can practice Reiki and you can do this with or without Reiki music because the tune that you hear only helps you relax when the most important thing to learn is the proper hand technique. This can only be taught by a master Reiki and when this is passed on to you, this can also be shared with others.
You just need to keep an open mind and have faith so you may also experience the positive energy that is needed to heal whatever part of the body, mind or soul that requires healing.
Origami has been proven to possess therapeutic advantages. The activity is been used to help individuals with psychological aspects such as feelings of acceptance. People who are having emotional and mental problems sense a feeling of acceptance while being taught the art of origami. Realizing someone is willing to take the time to teach and show them how to do this activity promotes positive emotions.
Modular origami stellated icosahedron made from custom papers (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
When origami is demonstrated in a group setting, it helps the troubled individual experience a sense of belonging. It enables them to interact with others and connect with people who they can relate to. It's also a bonus when origami is being taught by a psychologist because any time a person feels the need to share their feelings, there's a professional there to intervene.
The art of origami is effective in promoting positive behavior. In a group setting it helps an individual learn how to act appropriately in a social environment. This would be good for children who are having trouble communicating or getting along with other children. This activity requires patience and so it teaches people how to be patient. Again this would be beneficial for children. Origami involves problem solving and this is a skill that is needed daily by individuals of all ages. Getting people interested in activities such as origami encourages people to develop a hobby where they can be creative and be involved in a group activity.
The therapeutic advantages of origami are amazing. To be able to take a simple concept such as paper folding and watch it make a difference in people's lives is awesome. Origami is a learning experience that incorporates communication skills and problem solving skills. It's also a great activity to promote goal setting. Finishing an origami project takes time but the results are beautiful and fulfilling. Seeing the outcome of the project in a picture and working toward it provides an individual with a goal. It's important to have goals in life and it's great that an activity such as origami can help a person learn about it. Origami provides an opportunity to relax and have fun. The enjoyment that goes along with this activity is definitely good therapy.
Not everyone is quick to open up and share their feelings with another individual, even a psychologist or other medical professional. It's essential that the person administering help and advice present a non-threatening image. Origami can be used as a means of breaking the ice, a warming up technique. It can help the patient and psychologist find mutual ground. Origami can be used to bridge the gap between patient and doctor.
This will certainly make it easier for the patient to be comfortable and more inclined to share their feelings and work on their problems. It is imperative that a doctor and patient develop a good relationship. Not everyone is willing to discuss emotional issues and/or psychological problems. If origami helps to build a bridge that leads to healing, it can definitely be considered a therapeutic advantage.
Most Westerners think of meditation as someone sitting down, cross legged with their eyes closed and probably chanting some kind of mantra over and over again.
But that is only one of the ways that people can practice meditation.
Meditating can also be performed standing up, lying down or walking.
Labyrinth in Lower Leas Country Park This is in a country park in between Sandgate and Folkestone, above the seawall promenade. This artwork was designed by Clare Danstead for Shepway District Council for the park. 'As a contribution to peace and harmony within the ever-changing environment and community of Folkestone. The Labyrinth is a uni-cursal pathway leading to a centre and back out again. Used as a form of walking meditation or prayer. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Today, we're going to look at walking meditation. In this situation, the walking itself is the focus of your meditation, rather than a candle or a mantra or your breathing.
Obviously, depending on where the walking is taking place, you may also need to be aware of other external influences as well, such as joggers and cyclists.
In a walking meditation, you should concentrate on the actual experience of walking. Notice the pressure on each foot as it touches the ground and the relief of that pressure as your foot rises again. Take in the experience of the muscles in your legs. Notice when they tense up and when they relax. Feel the changes in your toes as they meet the ground. Recognize what is happening to your ankles as you walk along.
As well as the stress relief that a walking meditation naturally brings, you should also experience a feeling of energy and invigoration. Walking is a more active meditation than some other types (although breathing meditations can get pretty energetic as well, if you choose to let them). You also benefit from the exercise of walking, which is an aerobic exercise in itself. It follows that a walking meditation can be of overall benefit to your health and can even help keep you fit.
If the thought of sitting or lying down to meditate has put you off in the past, then taking the walking meditation course could be just the ticket. Give it a try and see how refreshed you feel afterwards!
It can be very tempting to abandon your good sense of healthy eating on vacation. Although you may
strive for healthy eating, it's easy to drift off and grab an ice cream cone here and there. There are however, ways to watch what you eat on vacation.
It's easier than ever these days to request a low fat or vegetarian meal on airplane flights. If you choose to instead drive to your destination, the quest to find healthy food can get a bit more complicated.
Healthy eating pyramid similar to that of the Department of Nutrition, Harvard School of Public Health. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Rather than simply relying on greasy foods for nutrition, pack some nutritious foods in a cooler full of ice packs. Fruits and vegetables, crackers, yogurt, and sandwiches are all great to have with you on the road.
Once you arrive at your hotel, you should do yourself a favor and turn the minibar key down - as this helps to avoid the temptation. If your hotel offers a continental breakfast, stick to fruits, cereals, and proteins. If your hotel has a stove or microwave, consider bringing your own healthy food with you.
If you simply must eat out, do so only when you are hungry. Restaurants will usually serve large portions, so be careful. If you do go a bit over on a meal, simply cut back on the next.
If you find it hard to fit in three square meals a day, try to fit in six smaller meals or snacks, as your body needs fuel every four hours or so. When you eat out, avoid appetizers. Whatever you do, do not miss any meals.
When it's possible, you should avoid eating large meals at night. When your body gets ready for sleep and slows down, it also burns calories at a much slower pace. Never eat bread before bed, and make sure to avoid the butter. Choose fish or poultry for your meal instead, and include vegetables as a side dish.
Even though it may sound hard, eating healthy on vacation isn't really that difficult. All you have to do is use a little will power, and pass up foods that you know aren't good for you. This way, you'll enjoy healthy eating and a healthy lifestyle wherever you go.
The next time you go on a vacation, always remember that eating healthy is a way of life. You can afford to get something you crave, although you shouldn't make a habit of it. One ice cream cone or a pizza isn't going to matter - as long as you know when to stop.
Instructor de Kundalini yoga practicando Pranayama (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Pranayama, also known as yogic breathing is the method of silencing the breath. Prana has been defined as the air which flows through the body. Pranayama is made up of three parts: controlled inhalations, controlled exhalations and holding of the breath. When you do all three parts, it is called sahita, while doing only the holding breath without the other two is called kevala. You should start with sahita till kevala comes into being. This is a technique that controls all that is associated with prana.
Our breathing is made of two acts of inhalations and exhalations. These acts are followed in cycles where inhalations and exhalations succeed each other, where you take in air into the lungs and then release some of it back from the lungs. In between the inhalation and exhalation, there is a short gap which usually escapes our attention. This act is called respiration and is usually completed in four seconds in the resting phase. We usually respire nearly fifteen times a minute. You can take in about 400 cubic centimeters or 0.4 liters in a minute. When you do deep inhalations, you take in additional 1.6 liters of air and 2 liters in all. At the time of deep exhalations, you throw out all these 2 liters of air but still your lungs contain another 1.5 to 2 liters of air.
Thus, the total lung capacity of the human body for a normal individual is about 5 liters. The amount of air that you can exhale through deep exhalation after a deep inhalation is called as Vital Capacity. Dividing this number by the weight of the body gives you the Vital Index, which shows the capacity to breathe as well as the vitality of the body and its efficiency in the body’s functions. Regular practice of yogic breathing has been shown to increase yogic breathing. This raises the vitality of the body and efficiency of the bodily functions.
How can you change what you believe when the experiences you have had has convinced you otherwise? The simple answer to that is to create a new experience. The best way for you to get that new experience is to meditate about how you can change the way you respond to what happens.The new response will create new results,which you will then experience it as a new reality.
Chase William Merritt Meditation 1885 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
To reach your goal of happiness,you have to act as though the following statement is true: Everything that happens to me is the best possible thing that can happen to me. meditating to help turn a bad situation into something good can be as easy as: 1+ 1 = 2. Acting as though what happens to you is the best possible thing that can happen to you plus the new results just equals happiness in your life.
When you are convinced of the truth that everything that happens is the best thing that can happen,life will Begin to be much more fun.It is like opening a new channel to happiness.All you need to know when meditating is happiness is there,waiting just for you.All you need to do is follow the formula that creates it.You have to remember also that unhappiness is also out there,waiting just for you.
The way you respond through meditation will determine which one you will be experiencing in your life. It is not necessary to have all the ingredients of a project in hand at the outset. They will come at the appointed time. It's only important that you move forward with the project that you have started until that appointed time comes.With the energy you create through meditation by moving forward as if you had the money to start your project,you actually put into motion a start of events that will lead you to your success.
Your actions create an energy that draws in the necessary ingredients of your project you have ventured into. Everything that you need for your venture is,in actuality,already out there,waiting for you.You only need to draw in what is needed. There is really nothing more to all of this other than just you remembering to keep an open mind and find that peace that is buried deep within you.
The result that come with meditation that causes you to experience happiness,which then proves to you that this is how things really do work-and this leads you to soon believe that everything does indeed happen for your benefit. When you realize that is true,that is when the deep sighs of relief will come and that meditation can certainly help you see the light.
The internet is a really great place to find out all of the information that you would need about meditation, in case you are interested in learning more about it for your own benefits. This is very important for you to consider doing because it will relieve you from so much stress circulating throughout your life each and everyday. Try practicing meditation as often as you can because you are really going to benefit from it.
In the USA, every two minutes a woman is being raped.
A 1993 survey revealed that 50% of Canadian women have experienced an incident of sexual assault or physical violence.
In Australia, 19% of women aged 18 to 24 experienced an act of violence in the last year.
Statistics show that one in very four women in America will be sexually assaulted in her lifetime.
These are SHOCKING statistics!
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 women fear attacks of a sexual nature more than anything else most of my quick tips are geared towards that.
If you are a woman, here is a list of ten simple things that you can do immediately that will increase your safety:
1 - Do not wear revealing clothing in public places. Doing so will ensure that you attract plenty of attention, including attention from those people with evil intent. Be discrete and leave provocative wear to those times when you can enjoy the intimacy of your partner.
2 - Trust your instincts. Women are very intuitive. If you think a situation might be dangerous then it probably is. That little guardian angel should be trusted rather than ignored.
3 - Rape and other sexual assault is always increasing. In the event of the worst outcome use your fingernails to gouge your attacker's cheek. It marks him for identification and you will have DNA under your nails.
4 - Drive your motor vehicle in a courteous manner. Nobody appreciates rude hand signs. Remember - eventually you have to stop, even if it is to refuel. Psycho cases might follow you for many miles "just to teach you a lesson" - all because you made yourself a target to their twisted minds.
5 - Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, taking mind altering drugs and leaving ANY food or drink unattended where it may be tampered with is a recipe for disaster. Give your self an even chance.
6 - NEVER pick up hitch-hikers and ABSOLUTELY NEVER hitch-hike yourself.
7 - If you live alone make sure that all your mail is addressed by just your first initial followed by your surname. Never allow mail to be addressed to you with salutations like Miss, Mrs, Ms or with your christian or given name. Those letters and parcels pass many eyes before they get to you. Change them. Make them nondescript as to your sex and marital status. Why allow anybody even one extra shred of information about you?
8 - NEVER walk alone at night or at any time in isolated areas. Predators love these locations. Avoid them.
9 - Many sexual acts are committed by people who the victims knew - or, at least, thought they knew! Be friendly and polite by all means but be vigilant for tell-tale signs of "strange" behavior. Do NOT flirt. Be firm about any unwanted attention, particularly in the work place.
10 - Sexual attack is usually preceded by some visual sign, which is usually preceded by some verbal approach before the physical action. Recognize the sequence: the look - the talk - the attack.
Please feel free to distribute this safety list to every woman you care for.
There are so many predators out there. Let's help our women to PROTECT themselves! Don't let somebody YOU know become the next victim.
There are many myths that people have around hypnosis. The myth even makes hypnosis renowned. Many people think that hypnosis is an all - powerful force that control mind of other people, is capable of communicating with the dead person, is capable of watching destiny, and other unbelievable things for ordinary people. As a hypnotist you should have correct understanding on hypnosis. You should know what hypnosis is and is not. This article will explain that hypnosis is not sleep.
Hypnosis has long been associated with sleep. Hypnotists get difficulty to elaborate that a subject under hypnosis is not sleeping. The myth might not be revealed till the end of the day because what people see on stage shows that the person is in a sleeping condition. A subject under hypnosis usually closes his eyes and seems to pays no attention to his environment.
Hypnosis is actually closer to the waking state than ordinary sleep. In fact, a subject under hypnosis tends to be more aware of things going on around him. The subject is more aware of the sound of the hypnotist, especially. He is also more aware of the feeling and sensation.
Hypnotic sleeping differs from ordinary sleeping. In ordinary sleeping we are not aware almost the night long. We are totally unconscious. Our mind, as if, disappears somewhere during the nighttime and returns back the next morning. It is possible some of us still remember part of our dream, but the most part there is clear distinction between hypnotic sleeping and ordinary sleeping. Hypnotic sleeping enables the subject under hypnosis to respond to suggestions given by a hypnotist while ordinary sleeping prevents the subject from communicating with his surrounding.
Sleeping in hypnosis has many connotations. For the subject, sleep puts the hypnotic experience into a familiar context. For the audience, sleep helps explain the phenomena they are observing on stage. And finally, for the operator, the association of sleep provides a framework for his hypnotic presentation.
If you are interested in the detailed information, visit Hypnotic Sleeping
People are often unaware of what stress can do to their body and mind. Stress is bad for the heart. Stress will give you headaches, or make you feel depressed. Stress can do many harmful things to your body and mind, yet in some instances stress is good. Balancing stress is the key to living healthier.
If you live with unhealthy stress, you will need to take action to reduce the volume. You have many options to relieve stress.
Effects of stress on the body. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Where does stress come from?
Stress develops from many different things. For instance, bills can cause you stress. Not paying your bills on time due to lack of funds can cause stress. Not having a job or kids can stress you out to the max. In addition, bad relationships can wear on your nerves.
What can you do to get some relief from stress?
Some of the things that may help you to find relief from stress include reading a good book. Wrap yourself up in a warm blanket or cool area depending on the weather and enjoy a good book. Writing is one of the top keys that help you to reduce stress. When you are overloaded with stress, write down your feelings, emotions, thoughts and so on. Writing is a great exercise, put it to good use. Avoid overdoing it, so that you learn to enjoy writing rather than feeling frustrated at the thought of writing.
You could also enjoy a nice hot, bubble bath. Add some candles around the tub, soak and enjoy. There are many ways that people can find relief from stress; you have to decide on the best way for you to find that relief. Go with whatever works best for you.
If you cant find a way to do it on your own perhaps you can visit your family doctor, a counselor, friend or family member that will guide you to reducing your stress. Support is a great tool. Build up a support group that helps you live healthier, rather than wearing you down.
What does stress do to my body?
Stress will do a lot to your body if you let it. It will control your emotions, thoughts, actions, behaviors, bodily functions and so on. If you allow stress to control you, it will bring you down to nothing, making you feel worthless. Stress can do a lot of damage to your body as well as your mind.
What can I do so I am not so stressed?
Stress can be reduced by minimizing bad habits. Try paying your bills on time if possible. If you cannot pay your bills on time due to insufficient funds, pay enough to avoid shut-off notices. You may want to setup a budget so that you spend wisely. Help is only a phone call away as well. Pick up your phone book, talk to people in your area, etc, since you just may find money available to help those with low-income pay bills.
Another good way to avoid stress is to stay away from those who drag you down. If you have friends or family members feeding you negativity, let them go and find positive friends instead. Sometimes tough love is our way of saying, “I’ve had enough.”
In addition, you can learn to eat healthy, exercise and put away those things that wear on your health. For instance, if you smoke, drink excessively, use drugs, etc, you are wearing heavily on your nerves. Put these things behind you if possible; otherwise seek help to put these things behind you. You have many options; check your resources to learn what is available to you.
Have you ever read the label on your shampoo bottle? You'll be shocked to learn that the ingredients found in many shampoos may pose a threat to your health.
Research has shown that various chemicals lurking inside shampoo may induce serious health risks, like memory loss, eye and skin irritation, hair follicle damage that can lead to hair loss, and even cancer.
While the U.S. Food and Drug Administration classifies personal care products, it does not regulate them. Therefore, there are no legal guidelines or boundaries for shampoo manufacturers to follow.
The descriptive "all-natural" has become a buzzword in the beauty world for environmental friendliness. What some shampoo makers leave out, however, is they still use the lathering agents, emulsifiers and synthetic fragrances that contain hundreds of harmful chemicals.
According to a company called Blinc Inc., it is very likely that the list of ingredients in a bottle of shampoo will contain some of the following additives:
* Propylene glycol, known as the main ingredient in antifreeze, is also found in makeup, toothpaste and in your shampoo. It can cause allergic reactions.
* Sodium lauryl sulfate and ammonium lauryl sulfate are common causes of eye irritation. They can also damage hair follicles. When absorbed into the body from continuous contact, they can bring on asthma attacks.
* Synthetic fragrances contain hundreds of chemicals, some of which have been known to cause headaches, dizziness, rash, hyperpigmentation, coughing and vomiting.
*The National Toxicology Program found that applying diethanolamine to a mouse's skin induced liver and kidney cancer. DEA is readily absorbed through the skin and can also be toxic to the brain.
But before you decide to never wash your hair again, Blinc Inc. is simplifying consumer education by consolidating official government research on questionable ingredients found in many shampoos, conditioners and body washes.
The company's philosophy of "Why take a chance?" means there are no controversial ingredients in its haircare products. They are 99.8 percent vegetable derived and as close to natural as possible while effectively cleansing without causing irritation to eyes or skin or damaging hair.
Many people are fascinated with Feng Shui and with many good reasons. While others generally believe that it is just some oriental superstitious set of paradigms on interior design (but that is just part of the extensive definition for Feng Shui), the Feng Shui that we know now is actually comprised of various schools of learning and incorporates the different cultures under which it is housed.
The good thing about the different options pertaining to Feng Shui is that even the layman can actually be able to understand and apply it immediately in their homes without having to spend too much. And apart from that, there are other advantages that only Feng Shui can bring if you can actually open up your mind to try it.
Advantage Number 1: It brings balance to one’s life
Have you ever found yourself completely overburdened with clutter and unnecessarily stressed out of your wits? Chances are, you are suffering from a visual imbalance of some sort in your surroundings. Now, the best way to introduce some sense of balance is by incorporating elements that provide you with a sense of control in the outer balance of things. If you are able to get some semblance of balance even in things as menial as your furniture, you are bound to find balance in other aspects equally manageable.
Advantage Number 2: It helps you become more mindful of the little things
Mindfulness in the little things can actually be a good thing. Some of us tend to be heavily focused on the big things of life that even the minor details like home arrangement and office ergonomics no longer come to play. When these “minor” aspects of life continue to take a backseat, they tend to accumulate and produce a very stressful environment which can add up to other problems and worries of life.
Advantage Number 3: It opens up possibilities of meeting new people
Meeting new people is another bonus of being a Feng Shui enthusiast. When you are applying Feng Shui, chances are, you will be able to find another person within your social network who likes the same stuff and can even help you expand your knowledge on Feng Shui, no matter how limited it is to begin with.
Advantage Number 4: It gives a fresh perspective on things
At any given time, a fresh perspective is always welcome. This positive perspective can invite changes for the better. A new way of looking at home arrangement, for example, may actually serve to benefit you in the long run. The fresh perspective brought about by Feng Shui can actually bring about an enrichment of one’s mind.
Advantage Number 5: It invites prosperity and success
The main objective of Feng Shui is to invite all the good things to one’s life. Prosperity and success can be more easily within reach and a positive disposition may be expected if Feng Shui is practiced well.
Advantage Number 6: It has aesthetic appeal
On top of all the enumerated benefits of Feng Shui, the best would probably be its beauty. The physical appeal of a well-decorated home, interspersed with good Feng Shui techniques, is actually something that you can call a personal heritage that can transcend generations and promote beauty in all aspects, including design of the home and the office.
OneTouch Ultra2 is being used by a diabetic patient. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Hypoglycemia is a medical term referring to a pathologic state produced by a lower than normal amount of sugar (glucose) in the blood. The term hypoglycemia literally means "low blood sugar".
Hypoglycemia can produce a variety of symptoms and effects but the principal problems arise from an inadequate supply of glucose as fuel to the brain, resulting in impairment of function. Derangements of function can range from vaguely "feeling bad" to coma and (rarely) death. Hypoglycemia can arise from many causes, and can occur at any age. The most common forms of moderate and severe hypoglycemia occur as a complication of treatment of diabetes mellitus with insulin or oral medications.
Presence or absence of effects: are symptoms more important than the number?
Research in healthy adults shows that mental efficiency declines slightly but measurably as blood glucose falls below 65 mg/dl in many people. Hormonal defense mechanisms, adrenaline and glucagon, are activated as it drops below a threshold level which is about 55 mg/dl for most people, producing the typical symptoms of shakiness and dysphoria.
On the other hand, obvious impairment does not often occur until the glucose falls below 40 mg/dl, and up to 10% of the population may occasionally have glucose levels below 65 in the morning without apparent effects. Brain effects of hypoglycemia, termed neuroglycopenia, determine whether a given low glucose is a "problem" for that person, and hence some people tend to use the term hypoglycemia only when a moderately low glucose is accompanied by symptoms.
Diabetic hypoglycemia represents a special case with respect to the relationship of measured glucose and hypoglycemic symptoms for several reasons. Although home glucose meter readings are sometimes misleading, the probability that a low reading accompanied by symptoms represents real hypoglycemia is higher in a person who takes insulin. Second, the hypoglycemia has a greater chance of progressing to more serious impairment if not treated, compared to most other forms of hypoglycemia that occur in adults. Third, because glucose levels are above normal most of the time in people with diabetes, hypoglycemic symptoms may occur at higher thresholds than in people who are normoglycemic most of the time. For all of these reasons, people with diabetes usually use higher meter glucose thresholds to determine hypoglycemia.
Disclaimer - The information presented here should not be interpreted as medical advice. Please talk to your doctor for more information about Hypoglycemia.
has been proven to possess therapeutic advantages. The activity is been used to help individuals with psychological aspects such as feelings of acceptance. People who are having emotional and mental problems sense a feeling of acceptance while being taught the art of origami. Realizing someone is willing to take the time to teach and show them how to do this activity promotes positive emotions.
can be used as a means of breaking the ice, a warming up technique. It can help the patient and psychologist find mutual ground. Origami can be used to bridge the gap between patient and doctor.
