Iridology is the science and practice of analyzing the iris, the most complex external structure of the human anatomy. The practice of Iridology is expanding rapidly as it is becoming known as a valuable tool for preventive healthcare. The iris is connected to every organ and tissue of the body by way of the brain and nervous system. It is in direct contact with the bio-energetic, biochemical, structural, hormonal, and metabolic processes of the body via the nerves, blood vessels, muscle fibers, and lymph. Holistically, it is used to accurately assess the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual patterns and weaknesses for a complete health analysis. It is completely painless, non-invasive, and economically viable while providing valuable information for restorative and preventive health care.
The iris of a human eye. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Most Iridologists also incorporate the study of Sclerology into their assessments. Sclerology is the study of the whites of the eyes as they relate to the person’s health. Interpreting the red lines, colorations, and markings in the sclera is closely associated with present pathology of the body. This is based on the twelve meridians and the yin and yang aspect of each meridian. The Chinese saw the lines in the sclera as a reflection of the lymphatic fluid which bathes every cell in relation to the principles of acupuncture. This principle concludes that imbalances in the meridian energy register in the sclera. Native American Indians also analyzed the eyes to get a better understanding of the stresses affecting a person’s health.
Nature has provided us with an invaluable insight into the vital status of the health of any individual through the sciences of iridology and sclerology. Through analyzing the eyes it enables us to ascertain the person’s genetic predisposition to health and disease, the general constitution, as well as organ and gland influence on other bodily systems. Personality tendencies, thought and emotional patterns, and deeper soul-level issues can also be recognized, making the eyes truly the windows to not only the body, but the mind and soul.
Iridology has progressed tremendously since the mid 1800’s. Numerous doctors and scientists have researched iridology on humans over the past 125 years and it has become a respected practice, used by many medical doctors and naturopaths worldwide. Dr. Bernard Jensen, renowned Iridologist and Nutritionist, pioneered the science of iridology here in the U.S. Dr. David J Pesek, PhD has continued and expanded upon Jensen’s work to develop one of the most comprehensive iris charts used today, integrating the thought and emotional patterns with the physical health, and improving the understanding of the ‘brain flare’ areas.
With today’s technology and the use of microscopes and fine digital imaging, many medical doctors, naturopaths, and psychologists from England, Germany, Italy, France, United States, Australia, Canada, and Russia have been advancing the field of iris analysis over the past 20 years with a seemingly unlimited potential. The brain areas, which are analyzed in the upper quadrant of the iris , have further defined emotional and spiritual health. Time-Risk assessment, has been documented, proven and shared with advanced iridologists around the world.
Time-Risk is a fascinating degree of exactitude, using the posterior epithelial cells which wrap around the pupil, to determine the actual time when imbalances in the body, mind, spirit may have occurred from childhood until old age.
Research projects are currently being done by many Iridologists/Researchers around the world. One study in progress is being done by the American College of Iridology which targets the markers in the corresponding intestinal area of the iris to pinpoint bowel disease in its early stages. This will rapidly bolster iridology in the United States as an integral part of the preventive health care system by understanding genetic influences and learning how to properly care for the body to avoid potential disease.
John Andrews, a top Iridologist and researcher from the United Kingdom publishes the Advanced Iridology Research Journal quarterly, including many works from Dr. Danielle LoRito, MD from Italy, Dr. Mikhail Dailakis, MD from Greece, Dr. Vincent Di Spazio from Italy, Dr. David Borow, an oncologist and medical Iridologist from Austria, Prof. Javier Griso Salome from Spain, Prof. Serge Jurasunas from Portugal, and many others. This Journal includes topics such as ‘Profiling Aging through Iridology’, ‘Multiple Sclerosis and Iridology’, ‘Hypoglycemia’, ‘Dysbiosis – Intestinal Immunology’, ‘Biophysics and Quantitive and Qualitative Biochemistry’, and ‘Iridology – Potential in Medicine’. Clearly we can see that Iridology is taken quite seriously by influential doctors who are open to progress of an alternative nature.
The iris will alert us to the early signs of approaching ‘dis-ease’; although any well educated Iridologist will be sure to warn that the iris cannot diagnose disease, but can recognize potentials for disease as well as toxic accumulations and tissue weakness within the body. As the evaluations are made, and the stress conditions understood, proper corrective measures can be applied. The body can then more easily adjust and alleviate the abnormal stress resulting in a greater degree of health, as well as enabling one to potentially avert any threatening disease.
Each eye gives us different information. The left eye correlates with the left side of the body and the right side of the brain, which is the feminine, creative, conceptual, intuitive side, relating to our emotional selves. The right eye correlates to the right side of the body and the left side of the brain, which is the analytical, practical, linear, masculine side and relates to our work and logical self.
Thus the eye is the very aware ‘informant’ regarding the CAUSE of body stressors. Iridologists trained in interpreting the indications portrayed in the eye have the advantage of occupying ‘command central’ rather than a peripheral monitor such as blood, hair, tongue, or urine analysis, which do not have full access to all of the body’s information (although each of these diagnostic systems provide specific valuable information). Practically speaking, the right hand may not know what the left hand is doing, but the brain centers know what both hands are doing simultaneously and the eye is privy to that information.
Knowing the various stressors on the body can be essential in preventive health care. These stressors may be simple, moderate, or severe and can represent conditions such as nutritional deficiencies, poor circulation, congestion, fatigue, pH acid/alkaline imbalance, infections (bacterial, viral, parasitic), nerve stress, toxic accumulations and abnormal cellular activity. Patterns may register an abnormal stress development long before any serious effects are experienced. With the stress conditions understood, proper corrective measures can be applied by nurturing the causative factors with natural therapies (nutrition, herbology, enzyme therapy, homeopathy, acupuncture, chiropractic, massage, counseling, etc.) leading to a greater degree of health.
Your Iridologist is an important part of a health care team. I encourage my clients to discuss the health care analysis and program I provide with their doctors or other health care providers. Some doctors understand the value in such an analysis and will refer clients to an Iridologist for a whole body assessment, often reducing the discomfort, costs, and time involved for the patient.
The eyes can also show us the cleansing and healing signs as the body adjusts to a more optimum state of health. All we need are the keys to understanding the symbols….and here it is, looking right into our eyes!
References from : Holistic Iridology, by Dr. David J Pesek, The International Institute of Iridology, and Insights in the Eyes, an Introduction to Sclerology, by Dr. Jack Tips, ND, PhD, The International Sclerology Institute, and The Advanced Iridology Research Journal by John Andrews.
We are blessed with the discovery and proper utilization of energy around us. There are several sources of energy that makes our living easier. Energy lights up our home every night, keeps us warm during cold winter, allows us to be entertained, and makes our living pleasant no matter what time of the day. And with all the other uses of energy from the moment we check our clocks in the morning to keeping us warn as we rest during the night, all of us would agree that it would be so hard to llive without it.
We can say that we have sufficient energy supply for a lifetime but that does not mean that we are not going to conserve it. After all, technology has its price. And that price is something we have to pay with cash.
And if coping with electric bill is your problem every time you see your bills, here are the ways on how to lower them:
·Provide good roof coating
A good roof coating deflects heat. And so, insuring that the roof receives a good coating would mean insuring you that your house would maintain good temperature on the inside.
·Keep your attic well ventilated.
Your attic is one of the more important parts of your house when it comes to the cooling system. The attic is your first and probably the most effective part of your house the keeps the whole house cool. But, in order for your attic to do its main purpose, make sure that it is well insulated.
Provide vents where the heat can come out during summer. Your attic door must also be sealed to ensure that the air from our house does not go through it and vice versa. The attic door can be sealed with weather strippers.
·Securing all the leaks.
Leaks contribute to high cost of home energy. Why? It is because air from your house can easily come out from these leaks. And the air from the outside can easily enter the house. Both increase the workload of your heating and cooling system.
You have to remember that air moves according to air pressure and temperature. Since the temperature of inside your house is most of the time different from the temperature outside, air moves freely from these leaks. Making sure that the leaks are sealed would mean less work on your heating and cooling system and lower electric bills.
Leaks would come from fireplaces, ducts, doors, ceilings, floors, walls, windows, plumbing penetrations, electrical outlets, fans, and vents.
·Reducing the thermostat
One degree centigrade is equivalent to 5% electric bill savings. Therefore, keeping your thermostat low will save you a lot of money. A total saving would also come from switching your thermostat further low when you are not home or if you are sleeping. The ideal temperature during winter is not higher than 68 degrees Fahrenheit.
·Limiting the use of water heater
The second largest electric consumer next to your heating and cooling system is your water heater.
When you wash you clothes, you don’t need to heat the water up. Just use the water from the faucet. This will save you by as much as 90% in washing machine energy consumption.
·Use energy efficient material around your home.
There are commercially available materials that would significantly contribute to the reduction of the cost of home energy. One of these is energy efficient windows that deflect the outside temperature (whether during winter or summer) from entering your home.
·Use your appliance efficiently
It is pretty basic for all of us to turn off televisions, air conditioning, stereos and other electronic gadgets when not using them. However, most still disregard this. The reality is; we can save a lot if we only learn how to turn them off if not in use. Also, small things such as iPod chargers, cellphone chargers, digital clocks, lights and other things that seem to consume small electric current that remain plugged day in and day out contribute to your electric bill. Making sure you unplug them would certainly lower down your monthly electric consumption.
You have the details. All you have to do is to make sure you follow them all.
We all know it's about fresh, raw, natural, organic, tasty, invigorating, nutrient and vitamin-rich goodness when it comes to juicing at home. However, what you may not know is adding a little fresh Aloe Vera Gel to your daily fresh juice can give you a fantastic boost of energy (and not just short term), as well as turn your tasty treat into a downright health tonic you won't want to miss out on. You can easily make-your-own juice in minutes in your own kitchen from the freshest produce you can get your hands on.
Raw juices of fruits and vegetables are extremely rich in vitamins, minerals, trace elements, enzymes and beneficial phytochemicals (plant chemicals). These juices act as cleansing agents eliminating toxins and other unwanted morbid matter from the system immediately. Raw juices are easily digested and absorbed and are also superb for those with a poor appetite, nausea, digestive problems or an inflamed stomach or intestines. They have proved to be effective in the treatment of a number of disorders and diseases including Liver, Heart, Kidney, Colds, Flu, Arthritis, Acne, Colitis, Diarrhea, Insomnia, Obesity plus many more.
Aloe vera in Playa del Inglés, Gran Canaria, Spain (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Raw juices are absorbed by the blood-stream within about 10 minutes after ingestion, making you feel alert, wide awake and refreshed. It is the most perfect fuel because it's easily assimilated and tends to cleanse and nurture the body while supplying it with a full range of essential nutrients. Fresh juice naturally detoxifies and heals the body by stimulating and healing the elimination and detoxification organs such as the gallbladder, liver, intestines and kidneys. Fresh fruit and vegetable juice as well as Aloe Vera Gel are also highly alkalinizing, thereby impeding the growth of harmful bacteria and virus in the body.
Of course there are dozens of juicing recipes around, which can all have a dash of Aloe Vera Gel added. You won't need much to get started on your Aloe Vera juicing journey, just some great fresh fruit and vegetables of your choice, or those I have suggested below, a juicer (available at most good department stores), an aloe vera plant (bought from a reputable nursery to ensure it is actual Aloe Vera also known as Aloe Barbadensis), and you're on your way.
Recipe To Make Your Own Aloe Vera Gel
Firstly get a nice size Aloe Vera plant from a reputable plant nursery. Cut a few thick fleshy leaves at the base near the stem. Rinse the cut part of the leaf thoroughly, peel off outer layer of skin. Rinse the remaining gel to get rid of any latex residue. Put the gel into a blender and add a little Vitamin C powder or Citric Acid powder to stabilize the gel. If it is too thick to blend, just add a little purified water.
Please take note: for internal use of Aloe Vera make sure you rinse off the brown exudate, called latex, from the open cut of the leaf as well as the gel, as this can have a strong (and usually unwanted) laxative effect. If done properly you shouldn't have a problem. I have been using Aloe Vera from my garden for years now, and by being meticulous about rinsing it properly I haven't had an issue with it. Usually keeps in the fridge for a few weeks, depends on your fridge of course.
5 Aloe Vera Juice Recipes:
1. Carrot-A-Licious
This one is a definite family favourite. Easy to drink, sweet and downright yummy.
2 Carrots 2 Green Apples (or any apples you have)
1 Orange (peeled)
Put ingredients though a juicer, add 1 tablespoon Aloe Vera Gel, drink immediately.
2. Pineapple Paradise
Seeing as I live in the tropics, I'm very partial to this combination. I also sometimes add a few tablespoons of Coconut Milk to increase the anti-bacterial and anti-viral content. This is a must-try.
1 to 2 Cups Fresh Pineapple
1 Carrot
1 Green Apple
Put ingredients though a juicer, add 1 tablespoon Aloe Vera Gel, drink immediately.
3. Zippy Zinger
If you love the tropics, you'll love this one. Easy on the tummy.
A small piece of Ginger (to taste)
2 Carrots 2 Pears
Half a small Red Papaya (known as Pawpaw in Australia)
Put ingredients though a juicer, add 1 tablespoon Aloe Vera Gel, drink immediately.
4. Beetroot Bliss
A great pick-me-up tonic. If you are unfamiliar with beetroot juice go easy at first, use just a small wedge. It can be a little overpowering. Tastes rich and earthy.
One quarter of small beetroot
2 large carrots
1 stalk of celery
Put ingredients though a juicer, add 1 tablespoon Aloe Vera Gel, drink immediately.
5. Cranberry Quencher
For those of you lucky enough to have this powerful fruit available to you fresh, I have included this recipe. Genuine cranberry juice is a powerful weapon in fighting colds and flu as well as being renowned for it's benefits to kidney function. Fresh cranberry juice is far superior nutritionally to the bottled on-the-shelf variety.
As Cranberries have a heavy acid content, when juicing, use one or two handfuls in a glass. Fill the rest with freshly juiced apple, otherwise it will be too tart. Put ingredients though a juicer, add 1 tablespoon Aloe Vera Gel, drink immediately.
A Bit About The Raw Ingredients
Apples: A good source of Vitamin A in the form of Beta-Carotene, Vitamin C, vitamin K and Folate, plus smaller amounts of Vitamin B1 (thiamine), B2, B3, Biotin and Vitamin E. A note on Apples Pips/Seeds: Apple pips contain small amounts of Cyanide. While you would need to eat an awful lot of apples to suffer any ill effects, I like to remove the apple cores along with pips when juicing.
Beetroot: A good source of Folic Acid and Vitamin C, plus they contain small amounts of Vitamins B1, B2, B3, and Vitamin A in the form of Beta-Carotene.
Carrots: Very high in Vitamin A - this comes in the safe form of Beta-Carotene which the body is able to convert to Vitamin A as required. Also contains Vitamin K and Vitamin C, plus smaller amounts of the B complex vitamins and Vitamin E.
Cranberries: Rich in Antioxidants and the chemical Quinine which is used to treat arthritis.
Ginger : Stimulates circulation and aids digestion it can also ease motion sickness and nausea.
Oranges: As well as being an excellent source of Vitamin C, orange juice contains Vitamin A, Potassium, Calcium, and Phosphorous. It even contains small amounts of all the essential amino acids which the body can use to make and repair healthy tissue and muscles.
Papaya: Known as "the medicine tree" in Africa, rich in Beta-Carotene and Soluble Fibre, while papain, an enzyme extracted from papaya, aids digestive problems.
Pears: Promote cardiovascular and colon health. The Copper in pears stimulates white blood cells to fight infections.
Pineapple: An excellent source of Vitamin C, Folate, Vitamin A, vitamin K, and B complex vitamins (not B12) and Bromelain which is a powerful digestive enzyme that can destroy bad bacteria and parasites, help digest protein, and may prevent the formation of blood clots. It is also a natural anti-inflammatory and is known to reduce swelling and inflammation in the body, beneficial for arthritis suffers, and to promote healing after injury.
The above recipes are not recommended to replace medical care and attention, they are intended for general use only. If you have health concerns or are on any medications please consult your health care professional before attempting to use any of the above recipes.
5 Aloe Vera Juice Recipes That Make You Feel Great are just to get you started, go ahead and experiment with your own favourite fruits and vegetables and don't forget the Aloe.
Anne Edwards has maintained an active interest in health for over 20 years, researching and finding natural remedies that actually work. She gained her broad knowledge base through necessity while battling a number of debilitating illnesses throughout her life. As a qualified Counsellor, she also has a special interest in mental health issues. You can find her website at: http://www.freehealthxchange.com
There are a lot of things that we have to deal with on a regular basis which affects our health. One very common thing that is experienced by people in general are headaches. As a matter of fact, some people have headaches so frequently that they simply learn to live with them and deal with the pain as best they can. Still others have headaches, such as migraines, which are almost impossible to ignore and become a life altering because of their intensity. As a result of these headaches, many people have turned acupuncture in order to find some relief from their suffering.
There are really two different types of individuals who come to an acupuncturist in order to seek relief from their headaches. There are those who are currently experiencing a headache and those that are to are trying to get some kind of preventative care in order to stop the next headache from coming or to decrease its intensity. These are two very different situations and are treated differently from the acupuncturist's standpoint. Depending on your situation when you enter their office will make a difference in how you are treated.
The reason why this is the case is because acupuncture is a way of moving energy throughout your body and it also can increase blood flow to certain areas. The way of treating an existing headache differs somewhat from the treatment that will assist in blocking future headaches. Your doctor will be able to make that determination and to adjust the treatment accordingly.
Many people try acupuncture treatments to stop their headaches but they are nervous whenever they enter into the office. Perhaps they have never experienced acupuncture before and are wondering how it is going to feel or if it is dangerous. The fact is, acupuncture is one of the least dangerous medical treatments that exists. Although it is possible for problems to happen, it is very rare and if the doctor is competent and uses sterile means when inserting the needles there is little need for worry. The needles themselves rarely hurt whenever they enter into the skin and often make the individual field either relaxed or even rejuvenated.
So, if you are experiencing headaches, the ancient Chinese art of acupuncture may be able to assist you in dealing with them. By bringing your body back into balance, you may be able to overcome your headaches once and for all.
Skin irritation due to benzoyl peroxide (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Over the years acne has affected millions of people in their early teens and for many on into their adult life. Each year new acne treatments hit the market, each claiming to stop further acne breakouts. Yet no one medication for acne has been proven to do that.
If you're like so many acne sufferers, and have a medicine cabinet full of various acne medications that don't work, you need to stop and get back to the basics of acne care. Your first step is to become knowledgeable about what acne is and how it develops. Visit your doctor, or better yet consult with a dermatologist about your acne condition. Your dermatologist may recommend over-the-counter medications for acne or if your acne is severe, you may need perscription acne medication.
Much of the medications for acne available today consist of several products (systems for controlling acne), which includes an acne face wash, exfolliator or toner and some lotion. The combined use of these acne medications can have dramatic results in acne blemish control. Though they will likely not cure your acne, they will, when used properly, significantly lessen the number of acne breakouts.
These acne blemish control systems include:
Face wash or cleanser:
The face wash or cleanser is used to fight bacteria. Some are designed to combat bacteria, both on the surface and within the pores. At the same time many contain tiny granules to help exfoliate dead skin cells and impurities. The two most common ingredients of face washes is either benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid. Each of these ingredients approach acne control in different ways.
Benzoyl peroxide used as an antiseptic to lessen the number of surface bacteria and skin yeasts. It is available as a gel, cream, lotion or face wash in varying concentrations.
Salicylic acid helps to slow down shedding skin cells inside the follicle, which in turn reducing clogging. It also helps breakdown, both blackheads and white heads. Salicylic acid is available in varying forms, like gels, lotions and medicated pads (Stridex) and in varying concentrations.
Exfolliator or toner:
The purpose of this gel or cream is to remove dead skin cells, unclog pores and remove excess oil. This one step is essential to acne blemish control. While not visible to the naked eye, clogging of the pores are a major contributor to acne breakouts. Again, depending on the manufacturer, either benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid or another medication for acne may be included in this step.
Lotion:
The final step is applying a lotion. These lotions are usually oil free and used to moisturerize, re-hydrate and reduce irritation of your skin. Some lotions may contain benzoyl peroxide to heal inflammation, which helps prevent future breakouts.
No matter which medication for acne you choose to use, following the acne treatment listed above will help to lessen your acne breakouts. Each step is an important step in active acne blemish control. The combined use of these medications can help to keep your skin clear and acne free. As with use of any medications, you should always consult with your doctor or dermatologists before starting any acne care treatment.
Chakra is a Sanskrit word meaning spinning wheel. These are a system of seven energy centers located along the spine. Each chakra corresponds to an area of the body, a set of behavioral characteristics and stages of spiritual growth. Practicing yoga and focusing your energies during different postures can help you to align your chakras and get all the wheels spinning in the same direction and speed. Understanding how to fine tune and control your chakras through yoga and meditation can help bring balance and peace to your mind, body and spirit.
There are seven chakras, each associated with a different part of the body along the spine from the perineum to the crown of your head. Each chakra is associated with a particular body location, a color, a central emotional/behavioral issue, as well as many other personal aspects including identity, goals, rights, etc.
The seven chakras are:
Muladhara- base of the spine;
Svadhisthana- abdomen, genitals, lower back/hip;
Manipura- solar plexus;
Anahata- heart area;
Visshudha- throat;
Ajna- brow;
Sahasrara- top of head, cerebral cortex.
Through the movements and postures of yoga, you can learn to focus your concentration and energy to and from the various chakras in your body. This can allow you to compensate for areas that may be out of synch with the rest of your body or not active at all. By balancing the energy among all seven of the chakras, balance can be achieved. This spiritual energy is known as Kundalini energy. In its dormant state, it can be visualized as a coiled up snake resting at the base of your spine, the Muladhara chakra.
Since the chakras act as valves or pumps regulating the flow of energy through your system, controlled and purposeful movements such as yoga can be extremely beneficial in realigning your chakras in a way that can cause great benefits to you in your physical and emotional wellbeing.
Scotland children hard boil eggs and paint them on Easter Saturday. On Easter Sunday, they take the eggs to the top of a tall hill and have a race to see whose egg would get to the bottom first.
Hungarian kids trade hard boiled eggs and then see who can be the first to throw a coin into the egg. It must stay in the egg and not just chip off the side of the shell. Pennies and dimes work the best.
Bulgarians crack eggs after midnight on Easter Sunday. The first one is cracked against the church wall, then everyone chooses their own egg. Each egg is cracked against another person's egg and the one left with an unbroken egg will receive a year of good luck.
The Greeks have a unique tradition. Everyone gathers at the midnight service and all the lights in the church are turned off. A priest comes in the church doors with a lighted candle and goes to the front pew and lights one person's candle. In turn, the one candle lights the rest of the candles in the church. This represents the Light of the Resurrection and everyone receives it.
In Poland, the Easter basket is the highlight of the day. The older family members make them for the younger ones. They are filled with Easter eggs, homemade bread, ham, butter lamb, and Polish sausages.
The Finnish greet their friend and family by whisking them with small willow twigs. This is done to wish them luck in the following year. Everyone had a turn and then on Easter Sunday, they would exchange eggs, candies, or money to repay the favor.
There are many more traditions, but they are all done to honor the resurrection of Christ and celebrate his return to heaven.
When you think "witch", what comes to mind? A wart faced old woman in a black dress with a broom? Actually, all it took was a birthmark or freckle, or singing and dancing outside, or simply someone's accusation that could have you executed as a witch.
Although there have been stories of witchcraft since the beginning of time, persecutions didn't begin until the 1500s. The Witchcraft Act of 1563 made it illegal for anyone to be or consort with a witch. The first major persecution, the North Berwick Trials, began in 1590 with King James I and VI. Returning from Denmark with his new bride, a powerful tempest almost killed them. The King believed witchcraft was the cause of the storm and had nearly 100 people arrested. Many were tortured and burnt alive.
The Forfar Witch Hunt of 1661 and the Auldearn Trials of 1662 were prolonged by accusations made by "witches" in order to save themselves. At the Aberdeen Trials, 7 women were accused of using magic to murder others and using body parts from the victims to create potions. The Pittenween Trials of 1704 were based on the word of a 16 year old boy. Each of the accused was tortured. One was even crushed to death under large stones. It was later discovered that the boy had made it all up.
The Renfrewshire Trials of 1695 began when 11 year old Christian Shaw caught a housemaid drinking forbidden milk and threatened to tell her mother. The housemaid told the girl that the devil would take her to hell. Christian began having fits and visions, claiming that the maid was torturing her. She vomited up feathers, hay, wax, stones, even a hot coal. There were accounts of her floating around the room and moving things without touching them. She also accused several others of witchcraft. Over 20 men, women and children were imprisoned and examined by "witch prickers".
Several children and one minister were found dead on the morning of the trials. Fourteen of the charged were found not guilty. The remainder were hanged and burned. Christian was cured after the executions.
The Witchcraft Act was abandoned in 1736. It is estimated that over 4000 people were executed as witches in Scotland alone. Only 4 "witches" are recorded as being executed in Ireland, and only 3 in Wales. So for those of you with freckles or birthmarks (like myself), be thankful that things have changed!!
Rauncie Kinnaird owns Kinnaird Bagpipes & Reeds specializing in Celtic jewellery, food, Guinness clothing, gift items, pipe band supplies and Highland dress including kilts and tartans. Sign-up for free articles on Celtic history and events at http://www.kinnairdbagpipes.com Article Directory: EzineArticles
A fascinating form of airbrush art is the airbrush tattoos. These tattoos can be applied to any part of the body and last longer than most temporary tattoos. An airbrushed tattoo will last for 7 days unlike other temporary tattoo that start to come off when you are bathing. It takes time or baby oil to remove an airbrushed tattoo. Tattoos that are done with airbrush art look realistic compared to other temporary tattoos.
Henna as temporary body art does last for awhile requiring time and lots of exposure to water to fade and disappear. Henna though takes a long time to hand paint onto the body. The bigger the artwork the longer it will take the artist to pain the henna design on. Airbrush art goes on quickly thus saving lots of time compared to henna as well as airbrush art is waterproof. Unlike henna lots of exposure to water still will not fade your tattoo. Where it would take an artist 6 hours to pain on a large henna design the same artist could airbrush the design on in around 30 minutes. This is a major amount of time saved for the artist as well as the recipient that must stay still during this process.
Another great thing with using airbrush art to create tattoos over real tattoos, is that there is no risk of infection due to piercing of the skin with a needle. There is no healing time needed with airbrushed tattoos. The great part is there is no pain involved. Real tattoos come with pain and is one of the reason that some people do not get them. So using airbrush art to create a tattoo gives people the chance to have realistic tattoos without the pain.
Real tattoos are permanent and you are stuck with what ever you get. The only way to remove a tattoo that you do not like is to either do a cover up tattoo or go and have laser surgery to remove the tattoo. With airbrushed tattoos you can get rid of it with baby oil or just wait about 7 days and then it is gone. No need to go and get an even bigger tattoo to cover up the offending one or go through the hassle of laser surgery.
To do airbrush art in the form of tattoos you will need certain products. First off you will need an airbrush gun, 10' Hoses braded hose, stencils, glass airbrush bottles and an air manifold. Then off course you will need airbrush paints that are designed for the human skin. This is usually referred to as airbrush tattoo ink. To finish up the process you will need talc powder and 70 percent alcohol.
The stencils are available in a wide variety of designs thus giving you almost limitless creativity when using airbrush art to create tattoos. The talc powder is to be applied to the tattoo after it has dried. The powder helps to keep the tattoo from fading. The 70 percent alcohol is to clean the airbrush gun and glass bottles with after you are done.
Airbrushed art used to create tattoos will last for 7 days on the norm. Now if you have extremely oily skin it could start to fade in a couple of days. If you have dry skin it could last past the 7 days. To help keep your airbrushed art tattoo for as long as possible keep applying talc powder to it every so often. If you are ready to get rid of it then just rub it down with baby oil and it will come off.
The following is my ponderance on the Source of existence. It is not a definitive article. It is just an expression of my own thoughts.
The question for ponderance is: Can the Source of existence be a thing?
If the source of existence is a tangible thing, then who is the creator of this Being or thing call the Source?
So can the Source be a thing or an object? Can the Source be tangible? If the Source can be an object, then how can it be the ultimate? Because if it is an object/thing/Being, then who is the creator of this object/thing/Being? If it is an object, by conventional rationalisation, there must be a creator for this object. If it is not so, can a thing or an object be already self-existing? This is indeed a very profound and paradoxical question.
My opinion is that when we try to interpret the Source with our mind, we are in fact trying to imagine/conceptualise the ungraspable. And by this very action of our conceptualisation, Source becomes a concept/idea and in our mind it becomes 'objectified' and conceptualised. Metaphorically speaking, it is like a dog trying to bite its own tail. We will be going round and round in circles and still no sight of the Source can be seen.
From my understanding and opinion, there is in reality no creator-creation division. It is an optical, perceptual and experiential illusion...a matrix so to speak. Observer(me) and the being observed (other) is a hypnotic thought... creating the appearance of 'me and other'.. This is quite hard to explain. The closest analogy is that life experience is like a dream of an individual self. When in actual fact, the individual self is a dream character within the tapestry of existence. The experience of an individual interacting with his/her environment is an impression.
Thank you for reading. I hope it has been interesting for you.
Building green is one of the solutions to global warming that many people do not think about.
Building green is designing and constructing buildings with the environment in mind. It is these practices that can have an impact on stopping global warming.
Houses give off a high percentage of a country's total carbon dioxide emissions. In the United States, the figure is about 38%. Since carbon dioxide is one of the greenhouse gases, houses contribute strongly to global warming.
Scientific studies on climate helped establish a consensus. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
One way to cut the greenhouse emissions of houses, and therefore help stop global warming, is to minimize the energy use needed to sustain comfortable living in a house. There are several ways to do this.
One way is to be careful about what building materials are used. Some building materials can be from quickly renewable sources. These include bamboo and straw. Also, building materials can be used that originates near the building site. This cuts down on transportation, and so cuts down on emissions of greenhouse gases and global warming. One example is stone houses built with local stone.
Buildings are also often built using recycled materials. Wood can be used from an older home that has been torn down. This will prevent the need to cut down other trees. Since the deforestation of the land contributes to global warming, this will help the situation.
Heating and cooling have a big effect on the amount of global warming caused by a house. Some ways to help this are very simple. One is to design the house to sit on the lot so that sunlight will come in through the windows and warm the house. It can also be oriented so that breezes will blow through the windows more naturally for cooling.
In this way, passive solar energy can be used to heat and cool the house. This will cut down on the greenhouse emissions from a house. Global warming will be lessened. Insulation is important to maximize on the cool or heat that is in the house. With good insulation, you will need a less intense heat or cooling source.
The main heating and cooling source in most green houses will be solar panels, wind power, or hydropower. Any of these sources will power a house with minimal effects on global warming. At the same time, these sources of energy will sustain a household in a comfortable style.
There are several organizations in the US that aid in the cause of stopping global warming by encouraging green building. One non-profit organization makes it their business to foster green building methods in both houses and commercial buildings. This group of people from the building industry is a part of the Green Building Initiative.
The state of Washington has required builders of buildings larger than 5000 square feet to use green building practices. Their law was enacted in 2005. It should help to keep a cap on global warming.
Green building is important for a number of reasons. One just happens to be that it can reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases. If green building can help stop global warming, perhaps it is time for everyone to build green.
In the basic plot of the old Germanic heroic poem Sigrdrifumal, a richness of information regarding the details of the quest of the spirit to transcend the limitations of the conditioned mind can be found. Here we have a small portion of the saga of the Volsungs isolated into its own book for a reason which has been buried by history. Perhaps the ancient scalds who recorded it recognized its completeness. We can only speculate. The Codex Regius combines the two poems into one with no breaks, while other sources separate them. This is easy to understand considering the chaotic structure of Sigrdrifumal. It appears as though there a missing section may have been added from a later manuscript, and yet the end of the poem is still obscured.
The Norse god Odin on his horse Sleipnir, featured on the Tjängvide image stone in Vallhalla. It also can depict a killed warrior on his way to Vallhalla greeted by Valkyries with horn goblet in their hands. Français : Le dieu Odin représenté sur la pierre de Tjängvide. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
While riding on Hindarfjoll Sigurð sees a great light coming from the mountain. He finds a structure made of shields containing a figure lying as if dead. He approaches, removes the armour and discovers that it is none other than a Valkyrie lying within (Valkyries are Oðin's 'shield maidens' who tap the slain warriors on the whoulder and carry their spirits to Valhalla upon their deaths). This is a familiar event in Scandinavian folklore. It seems to relate to the discovery of the Fylgja (Fylgja-'to follow'. It is an attendant spiritual servitor, or guide, cognate with the "holy guardian angel' of hermetic lore).
A light shining on the mountain reminds one very much of the iconography associated with a state of illumination that transpires once the sexual energy contained in the pelvic girdle is drawn up the spine into the head. The shield-burg could be the skull or the spirit seed that contains the part of the soul that connects the individual to the divine.
In one version of Sigrdrifumal, the figure is mistaken for a man before the helmet is removed, and then recognized as a woman as her golden locks spill out onto the pillow. This androgyny may indicate that Oðinic wisdom is similar to what in the martial arts is referred to as 'soft' power as well as 'hard'. Soft power in this sense is not weak or ineffectual, but rather that it attains its power through subtle means and chi rather than through muscle strength. This coincides with Oðin having been taught Seidhcraft by Freya, for which he was sometimes accused of being effeminate. The Fylgja of a warrior was also thought to come either in the form of an animal guide, or as a human of the opposite gender which may point in the direction of Jung's concept of the 'Anima'.
Sigurð goes on to cut open the figure's mail coat, which is as close as though it were skin. He inserts his sword and cuts from the neck downwards, then out through the sleeves. Anyone with any familiarity with the runes immediately finds this form familiar. Algiz is the rune associated with the Valkyries.
What begins to emerge from all this is the makings of a runic ritual.
As she awakens the Valkyrie asks who wakens her, then launches into the creation of a magical draught brewed in a meadhorn.
She blesses it with two stanzas of prayer to the spirits of light and darkness, the Æsir and Æsinjur (gods and goddesses) and the earth itself to give them wisdom, words, and healing hands.
The Valkyrie then tells Sigurð her history. We hear of times long ago, which may indicate a secret about the Fylgja connecting it with previous incarnations or genetic memory in the individual. If that is so, then Sigurð's fylgja being punished by sleep for disobeying Oðin may be related to his having become cursed for winning the Rhinegold from the dragon Fafnir, and thereby invoking the curse of the Rhinegold. Another reading gives the conclusion that the sleeping nature of the Fylgja may relate to Sigurð's own personal history, as psychology teaches us that the loss of the sense of divinity that children have as a matter of nature occurs due to social conditioning or trauma, which in this case manifested in the burying of his sense of personal wisdom in a wall of shields within him. This locked power becomes accessible after having destroyed the beast Fafnir and finding his power by facing this shadow. This is strangely reminiscent of Reich's 'character armour' and by cutting into the centre of the armour, we reveal the true nature of the soul as androgynous and wise.
The next several stanzas seem to deal with some various magical uses of the runes.
The first stanza begins with two lines relating to the offering of the magical draught to Sigurð. Then Sigrdrifa claims that the beer is filled with magical songs and Gamanrunar, or pleasure runes. This is interesting as it is a well known fact that beer recipes, up until the 17th century, when Germany passed the first purity laws against beer additives, included a variety of 'magical' herbs that may easily have been associated with magical songs and pleasure. That aside, the runes that might be associated with pleasure and song would be Ansuz, Wunjo, and Gebo.
The second stanza dealing with the runes lists the uses of the Sigrunar, or 'victory runes'. By their very title, the first of the Futhark to enter the mind is Sowulo, which is known in some systems as 'Sig' ('Victory'). Other runes that might fit the mold of 'victory rune' might be Algiz, Thurisaz, or Tiwaz, each of which have protective properties. This may be misleading, as protection and victory are very different things. In that case, the victory runes might be Othila, as it is Oðin's rune, the rune of completion of a long task. The feeling of being victorious might be encapsulated in Wunjo, the rune of joy. The only one we can know for certain from the text would be Tiwaz, as the last line of the stanza says to call on Tyr twice and that rune is named for Tyr. This might be instructions to place a Tiwaz rune on the sword twice, or once on each side.
The third stanza deals with Ölrunar, or "ale-runes". The text seems to suggest that these runes deal primarily with trust issues, though combining that with the fact that the persons being asked to keep one's trust are 'the wives of another' it follows that they are perhaps better known as "fling-runar". These runes are to be written on the back of one's hand or on 'horn' (either a drinking horn, or a phallus could be indicated here). Nauthiz is listed in the text as being drawn on the nails to ensure one's illicit secrets are kept secret. A moment of reflection would beg the question as to why the figurehead of a culture that believed that 'those who committed evil with other men's wives' would be chewed for eternity by serpents and wolves would be sending an emissary empowering one of his agents to do just that. It is either a mistranslation, or there is something we have missed. The stories seem to suggest that the typical attitude of the immortals towards human sexual dramas is taken in a lighthearted manner to say the least. Perhaps the many millennia of being disincarnate leads them to the conclusion that the pains and pleasures of incarnation are to be experienced in as much relish as one can muster, while there is still time. Perhaps, also, it provides the gods with some much needed entertainment. Perhaps there are a few of them up there who prefer soap operas to comedies.
The following stanza seems to also deal with ale-runes, but of a different sort. This type is more for protection against poisoning. The leek was a common charm against poison in ancient times. 'Leek' may also be a reference to the Laguz rune. It was known to be a common custom among Germanic peoples to bless the drink with a Thor's hammer sign before imbibing. This serves perhaps as proof against poison, as stated, but also perhaps as a means of dedicating the drink as an offering to Thor. As Thor is the warder of human kind, then it would make sense in both readings.
Bjargrunar are described in the next stanza. These are runes used to ease childbirth and protect the mother and child in the act of giving birth. Runes that might be suitable for birthing would be Berkana, Inguz, Perthro. They are to be 'risted' (written) on the palms and limbs of the mother. Also, the Disir are called in at this point. This makes perfect sense considering the role of the Disir as protectors of mothers and of the hearth and home. One translation refers to the Nornir (Fates) in place of the Disir. This coincides runically as Perthro is associated both with the Norns and with birthing. Inguz is here indicated due to its energetic similarity to a womb.
The next stanza deals with Brimrunar, or 'brine-runes'. These are charms relating to the safety of ships at sea, which must have been a very useful skill to know in times where boats were the primary method of distance travel. The first rune that immediately leaps to mind when dealing with the brine would be Laguz, the water rune. Considering its shape, Laguz might be considered a suitable candidate for the 'mast rune' mentioned in the text. The reference to 'laying fire' on the the oar might suggest Kano. It may also be that the runes are expected to be burned into the wood of the oars, which seems a suitable way of writing them on wood. Of course, another possible reading of the brine runes would deal with the water element on an emotional level. If this were the case, then the runes most likely to 'calm the seas' as it were might be Laguz, for its association with flow and water, Raido for bringing the errant mind back to the proper path and calming the fury, and perhaps ehwaz as it would be the rider on the horse of the emotions who wishes to get control and be the rider instead of the ridden.
Next is the Limrunar, or 'limb-runes'. These are runes dealing with healing. Leechcraft was thought to be a half-magical practice in ancient times, combining rune lore with hands-on healing and, one can assume, wound dressing. Runes that might be of use here are Uruz, which would give a definite charge of powerful health giving energy, Sowulo, who's positive energy and light would be greatly beneficial to the mental and emotional aspects of the patient, and Ansuz, which would call upon the powers of Oðin. These runes were probably written on the bark of trees to transfer the illness from the patient to the wood. In different translations the boughs to be used would either be to the east or to the west. This is confusing as it is therefore difficult to decide what the meaning would be without knowing for sure which direction.
Speech runes or "Malrunar" would be the focus of the next stanza. Here seems to be runes dealing with getting out of legal troubles. The 'thing' indicated here would be the annual meeting of the tribe where legal disputes between individuals were brought before the council. Having control over whether or not one was to be brought to trial seems to be a kind of astral 'get out of jail free' card. It seems to be a means of charging the whole thing with a field of magic that would be in one's favor. Runes that might work in this case would be Ansuz, Tiwaz, or Raidho.
The last stanza that deals with runes is about Hugrunar, or "soul-runes". They deal directly with wisdom and perceived wisdom. This is one set of runes that we have coming directly from Oðin in the form of Hroptyr ('maligned one' or 'hidden god').
He got them from the liquid that leaked from the head of Heiðdraupnir ('bright dripper') which may be Mimir's skull. It is fairly safe to assume that the source of this liquid is Mimir's well, as there are several references in the lore to drinking from his well in order to gain wisdom. The fact that the next stanza deals directly with Mim's head makes it clear that this is what we are dealing with: that the wisdom runes come from Oðin who learned them from drinking the mead of wisdom from Mimir's well.
Oðin is depicted here as holding 'Brimir's sword". Brimir may be another name for Ymir, in particular the aspect of him that comes from his blood, as 'brim' translates as 'surf' and as we know the sea was made from Ymir's blood. Why Oðin has Brimir's sword is unclear, though we do know that he killed Ymir, and would therefore have had rights to his arms.
Stanzas 15 to 17 of the poem seem to constitute a discreet unit. It seems to be a rune chant. The first line of stanza 15 tells one to write on the shield before the shining god, though in another translation it is goddess. This is perturbing, as it would very much change the meaning of the line. 'The shining As' is Heimdal, whereas the 'shining goddess' would be Sunna. The reference to the shield might point at Sunna more than Heimdal, as we know that Sunna holds the shield Svalin ('cooling') before the sun. The next line tells one to write on Arvak's ear and Alsvith's hoof, and this further supports the theory that we are talking about Sunna, as they are her horses charged with pulling the wagon upon which the sun sits. Line three continues the list of places to write the runes with a reference to Thor's cart (as Thor is Hrungnir's slayer), and Oðin's horse.
Stanzas 16 and 17 seem to be a list of uses for rune charms. They have mythological overtones, which leads one to conclude that they are archetypal images used to refer to many situations. Each phrase has several possible interpretations, which reflect the nature of the charms themselves. By extension, there may be very few situations where runes can't be applied efficaciously, for healing, warfare, or to incite poetry.
Stanza 18 seems to be a more direct indication as to how to use the runes. Carving them into an object, then scraping them into mead seems like a potent means to get the energy of the runes into the body and being of the intended. After that follows a list of beings who have power over the runes through association. It follows that those same beings would be under the influence of the runes as well. If they are identified with each other, then one is the other. To use a rune is to evoke the spirits that are associated with it. The beings listed are Æsir, Elves, and humans. The runes, when imbibed in drink make their way to these archetypal beings and the energies meld into a course of action.
Stanzas 20 and 21 describe a dialogue between Sigurð and Brynhild. Brynhild seems to give Sigurð an ultimatum of sorts. He is presented with a choice between swearing fealty to his destiny, or turning away. He chooses the path of the hero in following his Valkyrie and winning her love throughout his life.
Stanza 22 on the other hand seems to be a fragment from another poem. Its meter is different, and its content could be seen as incongruous with the previous lines. It is not hard to see why a copyist would have lumped them together at this point, as the lines constitute some sound advice and it is not inconceivable that the Valkyries would be giving Sigurð life lessons after he has sworn allegiance. These lines sound as though they would be better placed within the Loddfafnir section of Havamal. Whatever their heritage, I will comment on their import.
Stanza 22 speaks of being guiltless towards kinsmen. This means making an effort to follow one's word when dealing with those who one lives closely with. It is immediately obvious why this would be a good way of not only keeping friends, but also in maintaining a healthy self-respect which so often comes from having harmonious relationships with those one deals with on a daily basis. Wasting energy in pointless feuds on a daily basis has a negative effect on Hamingja and will quickly taint other situations in one's life. The last two lines refer to the increase in general happiness achieved through forgiveness, but it is relevant to note that in different translations there is a discrepancy between on one hand taking no vengeance at all and on the other lessening the extent to which one takes vengeance. Although it is easy to see how forgiveness can quickly lead to happiness, it also seems as though a Christian copyist may have translated the text differently than a pagan one. The Christian may turn the other cheek, and the pagan may pay back kind with kind. What actually occurs is up to the individual, however it is clear that more forgiveness means less resentment and that can only lead to less emotional self-poisoning over time.
Stanza 23 deals with oath taking. It is pleasing to have my own opinion on the matter clearly stated by such an ancient text. So often it seems easier to tell people what they want to hear in spite of one's true wishes only to disappoint them later when it was never one's intention to follow through on the oath. This only leads to disappointment in one's friends and that down the road may poison relationships. The strange thing is that if honesty where employed at the outset there may be an initial moment of conflict between wills, but in most cases that will be much less than the long term poisoning that results from the former situation. The "warg of oaths' or the 'wolf of his word' mentioned in the last line refers to the person who frequently disappoints their friends and family by not keeping their word. The text suggests that it is through this process that one comes to being shunned and mistrusted by those who would otherwise support one, leading to poverty and shame.
Stanza 24 is a warning against arguing with fools at the Thing. This is a way of protecting one's reputation against slander by choosing one's words and battles with care.
Stanza 25 tells of how one would be perceived if one keeps silent about the things that are of concern to you. This is seen as the way of cowardice in a society that values open discussion. To complain of things after one has left the situation when open conflict was called for is seen as the way of the weak and the coward. If one is wronged, speak up fearlessly and the truth will not be mistaken for the words of one's detractors. To keep silent is often seen a sign of guilt, whether that guilt exists or not. If the liars and the fools are able to speak their version of the story it will be believed unless contradicted openly.
Stanza 26 is a warning against staying with an evil minded woman. What more need be said. It is too easy to be robbed and killed in one's sleep, or entrapped emotionally. At times the unknown danger of the world at night is preferable bedding down with serpents. Becoming entangled with an evil minded person only leads to sharing in their bad luck.
Stanza 27 warns one to be focused on the task at hand, to have keen perception in the moment so that no fatal surprises will come on one when one is distracted in battle.
Stanza 28 warns against unhealthy sexual obsession. A lot of energy can be lost by being unable to let go of one's obsession.
Stanzas 29 and 30 tell of the dangers of taking the ire of a drunk seriously. It is unwise to get riled up over things said when the wine is flowing. Getting too involved in the brawls of the drunken only leads to sorrow and woe.
Stanza 31 tells that if one seeks to fight a strong enemy, it is better to have it out than to die secure in your home.
Stanza 32 warns against being false, lying, or beguiling maids and the wives of other men. These are seen as evil courses of action.
Stanza 33 tells one to bury those corpses one may stumble across in one's travels. This is not only sanitary, but respectful.
Stanza 34 deals with pre-burial rites of cleansing and prayers.
Stanza 35 warns against trusting the word of one of the family members of those you have killed. There is sure to be a smoldering resentment in such people, despite their outward appearance of civility.
Stanza 36 warns one to be constantly on guard against the evils of the world. They never rest, and so in order to conquer them, great efforts must be made towards being awake and aware.
The 27th and final stanza warns against being wrathful or treacherous towards one's friends. There are enemies enough in the world at large, and to make waves with one's allies is to shorten one's life all that much more.
As you can see, the meaning of this poem takes on new light when interpreted with an informed knowledge of the runes and their meanings. On one hand we have an apt description of the path of the spirit towards liberation, and on the other is a list of tools and ethical advice to aid the hero on that journey. Its value is incomparable when read with the right understanding. It is no wonder that it has retained so much influence over the minds of the ancestors of its originators. The mythic resonance is encoded in the forms that populate its lines. We would go so far as to say that a full understanding of the implications of this poem will lead to a spiritual awakening in the reader.
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