The Heart and HEALTHY AGING

As we grow older we, experience higher risks of heart disease, cholesterol increase, weaken joints, muscles, and so on. Most people who experience illnesses often feel frustrated and experience feelings of despair. People who suffer illnesses or tragedies unfortunately set themselves up, saying, “It can’t happen to me.” It can happen to any of us, which is why we should take the steps in our youth to prevent illnesses and tragedies. 

Many of us fail to take the steps in our youth. It hinders us to a large degree, yet we have options regardless of what we endure. 

According to experts in aging and heart disease is rising higher these days than ever. The aging progression alone slowly builds up through impulsive changes of the body and mind. The maturity phase carries on starting at childhood as the person works through puberty, teenage and so on. At this time the body and minds start to decline. As the person reaches mid-age or moves into advanced aging, the person starts to decline its natural physical functions. 

Aging alone starts as we are born and carries throughout our life. Through the process, the body has positive reflections on our bodily components and development, yet as we age negative effects take fold, which includes the declining phase. 

According to experts in medicine, no one can determine when our body becomes aged. At one time people 65 and older were considered the aged, yet today people are working further on than 65 years of age. In short, people are working in the 70s, 80s and even 90 years of age today, which returned a different view of the aged. 

Still, millions of American citizens are falling victim to heart disease, strokes, etc. What can they do? 

How to relieve emotional strikes after a heart attack: 

If you’ve experienced a heart attack, likely you feel frustrated, hopeless, etc. The emotions are common after any illnesses, yet you must take steps to control these negative emotions since it only causes stress on your body. The stress will wear you down and perhaps lead to another heart attack. Let’s stop it now. After illnesses, including heart attack learn to focus on the day, instead of yesterday and tomorrow. You only have control of each day you live. Instead of sweating weeks ahead, try doing something you enjoy. Walking is a great way to reduce the risks of heart attacks. You can also visit friends or family members that make you feel good about you. 

Support is essential. If you have support, you will have friends and family members who will open their minds to your feelings. You should never allow your feelings to linger in your own mind without expressing what you feel. Express your feelings to people you trust. Take time to listen to them and let these people know what you need. For instance, if you just need a friendly ear, then let them know. Holding back emotions leads to soaring complications. 

If you can find support groups in your area that is experiencing the same thing as you, then join the team. The support will help you to share information with people who understand what you are going through. It is frustrating to express feelings with people who have not experienced similar illnesses or experiences as you. Try to find someone that you can relate to and speak your feelings. 

Exercise: 

Exercise is the leading element we have offered to us in life that helps to reduce any disease, emotional reactions and so on. When you sit around feeling anxious, depressed, or despaired, you are working toward worse health conditions. Reverse your actions and take the steps to live longer by exercising each day. 

---

---

---

Hormones and All that Good Stuff in HEALTHY AGING

Photo  by LlGC ~ NLW

Stomach weight is associated with making the arteries age. Your arteries supply blood throughout your whole system and if these become blocked it can cause many problems for you. Obesity can lead to a heart attack, memory loss, the skin will wrinkle and strokes can occur too, which is all caused by the blocked arteries. Your diet plays an important role in helping to keep these arteries clear. You need to include a certain amount of goods fats in your diet if nothing else eating nuts for a snack.  

Keeping the mind busy and enjoying activity helps the brain and it will help prevent depression, anxiety, and stress. Everyone seems to get these three things as we age because we slow down and don’t get out enough. It is very important to be with people and get that exercise to keep your mind from thinking and worrying so much. 

Watch your diet keeping it under control and enjoy many activities. You’ll feel and look better as you age. We can consider all these aspects, yet to find a clear vision of what healthy aging means to you, we have to consider hormones. 

The glands produce several hormones, including the Human Growth Hormone. (HgH) Science shows the body produces enough but it doesn’t release all of it as we age. The low levels of human growth hormone cause wrinkling of skin, reduction of energy and sexual performance. Gray hair is incurred from hormonal deficiencies. The hormone will also cause increases in body fats and puts you at the risk of heart disease. You will lose muscle mass from deficient HgH, which can lead to shrinking of bodily organs. 

Studies were conducted that shown results from 26 men. These men were between the ages 61 and early 80s. The studies have shown that the supplement of Human Growth Hormone slowed the aging process 10-20 years total. After giving HgH, these men showed improvements, which enhanced muscle strength. The skin tone was enhanced as well as the memory. The overall of aging has not been stopped but important signs of maturity are improved.

Vitamin A is known to help the eyes but in recent studies, it was discovered that it also helps release the human growth hormone. Just remember when buying supplements in a health food store the labels are not always accurate. 

When taking any hormone replacement supplements make sure that you consult with your doctor, only he or she knows what is best for you. Since supplements, Vitamins, or replacement therapies may include side effects, you want your doctor's advice first before administering these remedies. 

Women rely on estrogen to maintain healthy bones. Women need these hormones to reduce the risks of shrinking in bone density. Women will often experience symptoms that form into osteoporosis when estrogen is deficient. Estrogen will often slow as a woman ages, and usually, after menopause, the woman’s lipid levels drop. 

This can cause high cholesterol also, since LDL increases. In addition, lipid levels when increased can lead to blocked arteries, or coronary blood vessel/artery disease. After a woman goes through menopause she, starts to age for the reason that the ovaries begin to slow the production of progesterone and estrogen. These major hormones control menstrual cycles, which stop at this point. 

Men rely on testosterone to maintain their youth. This hormone controls a male’s sex drive, facial hair growth and so on. We all have our hormones that perform many actions, yet in some instances, we need replacement, especially as we grow old. Sometimes replacing the hormones will slow the aging process, thus promoting healthy aging. 

---

---

Benefits of WHEY PROTEIN

In recent years, the subject of whey protein has come up often in health discussions. Know what whey protein is, its possible benefits and side effects and more as you read on.

What is Whey Protein

Whey protein is actually a term used to describe a group of globular proteins that can be separated from whey. When cow’s milk is used to manufacture cheese, it also leads to the production of whey, which may or may not is discarded. It is a mixture of lactoglobulin, alpha-lactalbumin, and serum albumin.

Similar to a protein found in egg white, whey protein can also be irreversibly changed by heat. When made part of the pasteurization process, it becomes less bio-active. If not, whey protein naturally becomes bio-active which basically means it contains a high concentration of cysteine and consequently glutathione, an antioxidant that is essential to improved fitness and health.

Bio-active whey protein is an active source of protein but exposure to extreme heat can easily reduce the amount of cysteine in it without affecting its protein content and basic food value. Native whey protein

What Makes It Good for the Body

Because whey protein contains an inordinate amount of essential and non-essential acids, it frequently plays a prominent role in most low-carb and high-protein diets. Another reason for this is because of its low content of fats and of course, carbohydrates.

Why Pregnant Mothers Love Whey Protein

A number of OBs have advised their gravid patients to increase their intake of whey protein because it will provide the basic amount of amino acids needed by the growing infants inside their bodies. An increased intake of whey protein will naturally improve and speed up the development of the baby. Also, increased intake of whey protein will indirectly improve the immune system of the baby. In its growing stages, it is highly vulnerable to different types of illnesses. With the help of whey protein, it grows faster and better and more equipped to defend itself against any health complication.

Whey Protein for Bodybuilding Enthusiasts

For bodybuilders, muscle growth is everything and that’s why they love whey protein so much. Studies have satisfactorily proven that whey protein can lead to an acceleration of muscle development. This is welcomed news especially for bodybuilders who are only a few weeks away from the date of competition but is still in high need of muscle growth.

How it Helps Athletes Busy Recovering from Old Injuries

In this case, whey protein saves the day once more because it can be used to supplement diets of individuals who are suffering from compromised immune systems. Basically, it helps athletes heal faster and feel better.

A Weapon against Degenerative Diseases

Although you can’t truly say that any disease is less painful than the other if both have life-altering consequences, it is an inarguable fact however that degenerative diseases are one of the worst health complications to suffer from. These illnesses tend to subject people to a protracted form of suffering and with symptoms with increasing levels of severity. They commonly affect three systems in particular: the nervous system, the muscular system, and the skeletal system.

Although rarely curable, degenerative diseases can be treated with chemotherapy, surgical operations, and the proper diet. Whey protein is often a part of this diet because of its rehabilitative benefits especially when it comes to muscle growth. Cancer, diabetes, and AIDS have symptoms that cause muscle strength and growth to deteriorate – an undesirable effect that can be combated with increased intake of whey protein.

Where to Buy Whey Protein

Are you sufficiently convinced of the benefits of whey protein then? If so, you should be happy to know that you can avail of commercial whey protein product in most supermarkets and specialty food stores specializing in healthy food.

Ending with a Warning

Whey protein is good for the body – no doubt about it – but too much consumption of anything is never beneficial. Too much intake of whey protein can lead to unnecessary complications of your liver. And need we remind you that the liver is the next most important organ in the body? Lastly, lactose intolerant individuals must consume whey protein isolate rather than the normal variety as the former has less lactose content.

---

---

Controlling High BLOOD PRESSURE Is The Easiest Thing To Do

Measuring blood pressure at home with an electronic meter.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Controlling blood pressure is the easiest thing to do, provided you know the fundamentals. It has to do much with your eating and drinking habits.

Look into the mirror. Do not see only your face. Look at your entire figure. There lies your future. How long do you think your body can go on accepting all that you stuff in, without applying any thought, just because of your taste-buds like it? Do you know that overweight people have a higher chance of suffering from a stroke? Do you check your weight at regular intervals?

When you saw the weighing machine marking a fat gain of 16 pounds within a period of two months, why did you simply ignore it? It should have shocked you into action. The least you can do is find out what your weight is now and what your weight should be!

You need to be careful about what you eat as it is directly and proportionately related to your blood pressure. I agree that ‘one has to be true to the salt,’ but this does not hold true for you. You have to cut down on your intake of salt drastically before your doctor tells you - no more salt! Avoid salty, and fried food. Adopt a diet that is low in saturated fat.

Two local remedies well known, to control high blood pressure are buttermilk and lemon. Take buttermilk regularly. It is good for both - low as well as high blood pressure. Lemon peel is also equally effective in high blood pressure. A shredded lemon peel may be added to soups and stews or sprinkled over your salads.

And tell me, have you stopped drinking or are you still contemplating the decision? If you have already made that decision, then let me congratulate you. But, if you think that you can not do it all at once, reduce the intake of alcohol. Just take a drink a day. If you are already under the watchful care of your family doctor, please follow their instructions sincerely. Let there be no holidays for the medicine and please keep sufficient stock in advance. If your doctor has called you this Sunday for a check-up, then make sure that you reach there this Sunday itself and not, the next Monday.

Also, the doctor must have given you certain indications about the schedule of exercise that is necessary for you, such as, morning walk, light stretching exercises or light aerobics. Follow the schedule strictly. Your doctor treats hundreds of patients like you every day. He has more practical wisdom about high blood pressure than you. Go as per his advice and understand his treatments.

Regular check-up of blood pressure is a must. You need to have such an arrangement at your home. Charts of your regular checkups will help your doctor tremendously in treating you. Let all the members of your family, your wife, and your children go for the check-up, along with you, even if they do not have this ailment.

If you are taking basic precautions like controlling your diet and doing proper exercises - keep aside all imaginary worries and live a normal, relaxed life!

---

---

---

Profiles of FENG SHUI Enthusiasts

Peacock - Photo Pixabay

Feng Shui enthusiasts have different niches. Different personalities and cultural backgrounds are incorporated into the Feng Shui attempts. The good thing is that you do not have to limit yourself to a certain make to be able to apply Feng Shui. However, it may do you a lot of good if you are able to find the groups of people who have the same interests as yours as far as Feng Shui is concerned.

If you are after the more rigid type of the loose application of Feng Shui, these are all possible depending on your preference, for Feng Shui is really all a matter of channeling the right energy to make the environment work to your benefit. 

The best thing about Feng Shui is that it attracts a huge variety of people. You don’t even have to look too far and you will easily find a person who is into Feng Shui. And with the many challenges facing the world today, it is understandable that we seek help in various places, including Feng Shui aid. But different persons breed different motivations for applying Feng Shui, and here are some of the profiles of people who engage in Feng Shui. 

The Business Tycoon

The business tycoon is completely focused on profits. He or she will be most likely to ponder positioning and orientation of his office building in relation to the directions of prosperity. He may even alter the numbers of his landline and address if at all possible, to tailor to the lucky numbers for a given season. But more often than not, the business tycoon won’t have time to think all about these things and will be most likely to hire a Feng Shui expert to do it all under his approval.

Big-time business people who like Feng Shui can afford the most expensive form of Feng Shui help there is and actually uses the profit to leverage in more profits with proper design and good Feng Shui. 

The Pad-Owning Bachelor and Bachelorette

The bachelor’s priorities include adjusting to the adult world, getting financial stability and having fun socially. Typically, they are the ones who buy Feng Shui charms, remove flowers in the bedroom to avoid unfaithfulness in relationships. Fun-loving and modern, they may find that they are heavy on electronic or metal objects and may opt to balance it with a Zen fountain or two. 

The Housewife

The housewife is the one who pores through magazines and seeks out Feng Shui tips online and offline. She may also derive the techniques from other fellow housewives and friends within the neighborhood. Her common focus on Feng Shui would most likely be oriented on home and family matters. The housewife who likes Feng Shui is most likely into interior designing of home whether on an amateur or a professional level. 

The Striving Employee

The striving employee who likes Feng Shui aims to make a miniature balance of earth elements in his cubicle. This may involve him or her putting a small mirror for water, a jacket to ward off the excessive metal in the corporate workplace and many others. The striving employee may also invite relaxation and peace of mind by means of a plant ornament or any lovely fixture that doubles as a Feng Shui charm and a form of aesthetic display. 

---

---

---

MEDITATION technique of perception

Photo  by Ian Sane 

One Answer….for all questions - This too will pass...

   This meditation technique is quite different from the conventional meditation techniques. This technique is actually a contemplation exercise and involves thinking over life. Though people of all age can try this technique, it is basically suitable for people with mature age (I mean 18 & above). The reason is that only those who have lived a certain (substantial) duration of life can reflect back on their past. Very young people who are still in the initial phase of their life are less likely (though not impossible) to analyze their life from the angle which this meditation demands. Nevertheless, this meditation technique is very useful for knowing our true self.
Method:   

First, read this thought-provoking story:- 

Once a king called upon all of his wise men and asked them,

" Is there a mantra or suggestion which works in every situation, in every circumstance, in every place and in every time. Something which can help me when none of you is available to advise me. Tell me is there any mantra?"

All wise men got puzzled by King's question. One answer to all question? Something that works everywhere, in every situation? In every joy every sorrow, every defeat and every victory? They thought and thought. After a lengthy discussion, an old man suggested something which appeals to all of them. They went to the king and gave him something written on paper. But the condition was that king was not to see it out of curiosity. Only in extreme danger, when the King finds himself alone and there seems to be no way, only then he'll have to see it. The King put the papers under his Diamond ring.

After a few days, the neighbors attacked the Kingdom. It was a collective surprise attack on King's enemies. King and his army fought bravely but lost the battle. King had to flee on his horse. The enemies were following him. His horse took him far away in Jungle. He could hear many troops of horses were following him and the noise was coming closer and closer. Suddenly the King found himself standing at the end of the road - that road was not going anywhere. Underneath there was a rocky valley thousand feet deep. If he jumped into it, he would be finished…and he could not return because it was a small road…From the back, the sound of enemy's horses was approaching fast. King became restless. There seemed to be no way.

Then suddenly he saw the Diamond in his ring shining in the sun, and he remembered the message hidden in the ring. He opened the diamond and read the message. The message was very small but very great.

The message was - " This too will pass."

The King read it. Again read it. Suddenly something strikes in his mind- Yes ! it too will pass. Only a few days ago, I was enjoying my kingdom. I was the mightiest of all the Kings. Yet today, the Kingdom and all his pleasure have gone. I am here trying to escape from enemies. However, when those days of luxuries have gone, this day of danger too will pass. A calm comes on his face. He kept standing there. The place where he was standing was full of natural beauty. He had never known that such a beautiful place was also a part of his Kingdom. The revelation of the message had a great effect on him. He relaxed and forget about those following him. After a few minute, he realized that the noise of the horses and the enemy coming was receding. They moved into some other part of the mountains and were not on that path.

The King was very brave. He reorganized his army and fought again. He defeated the enemy and regain his lost empire. When he returned to his empire after victory, he was received with much fanfare at the door. The whole capital was rejoicing in the victory. Everyone was in a festive mood. Flowers were being thrown on King from every house, from every corner. People were dancing and singing. For a moment King said to himself," I am one of the bravest and greatest King. It is not easy to defeat me.: With all the reception and celebration he saw an ego emerging in him.

Meditation from Miguel Costa Photography on Vimeo.

Suddenly the Diamond of his ring flashed in the sunlight and reminded him of the message. He open it and read it again: "This too will pass"

He became silent. His face went through a total change -from the egoist, he moved to a state of utter humbleness.

If this too is going to pass, it is not yours.

The defeat was not yours, the victory is not yours.

You are just a watcher. Everything passes by

We are a witness of all this. We are the perceiver. Life comes and go. Happiness comes and go. Sorrow come and go.

Now as you have read this story, just sit silently and evaluate your own life. This too will pass. Think of the moments of joy and victory in your life. Think of the moment of Sorrow and defeat. Are they permanent? They all come and pass away. Life just passes away.

There were friends in past. They all have gone.

There are friends today. They too will go.

There will be new friends tomorrow. They too will go. 

There were enemies in past. They have gone.

There may be an enemy in present. They too will go.

There will be new enemies tomorrow and......they too will go.

There is nothing permanent in this world. Everything changes except the law of change. Think about it from your own perspective. You have seen all the changes. You have survived all setbacks, all defeats, and all sorrows. All have passed away. If there are problems in the present, they too will pass away. Because nothing remains forever. Joy and sorrow are the two faces of the same coin. They both will pass away. Who are you in reality? Know your real face. Your face is not your true face. It will change with the time. However, there is something in you, which will not change. It will remain unchanged.  What is that unchangeable? It is nothing but your true self.

You are just a witness to change. Experience it, understand it.

Every day for 10-15 minutes is in silence. Just think over the sentence, " This too will pass." Pondering over your own life will make you realize the true meaning of this sentence. Everything passes yet your real identity remains the same. That real you is your true self. To know that self is true meditation.

---

---

---

Common Knowledge About Gestational DIABETES

A kit used by a woman with gestational diabetes. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

I did not become familiar with gestational diabetes until recently when my sister-in-law and my best friend were both diagnosed with it within a week. Many women I know, myself included, have made it through pregnancies without having any serious problems like gestational diabetes.

Basically, gestational diabetes is a disease that can come on during pregnancy but that usually disappears once the baby has been born. In some women, pregnancy results in their blood sugar levels getting out of balance. A pregnant woman might realize that she is having blood sugar problems on her own or it might take a doctor to determine that her levels are not normal. Regardless of how it is discovered, gestational diabetes is a serious issue that needs to be handled with caution and care throughout a woman's pregnancy and after.

When my sister-in-law and my closest friend were struggling with feeling abnormally up and down during their pregnancies, their doctor took blood tests and determined that their blood sugar levels were being affected by their pregnancies and their food choices. They were both diagnosed simply by having this blood work done. At first, they were hesitant and scared because gestational diabetes sounded huge and they didn't know how relatively simple the treatment process could be.

Gestational diabetes, because it is primarily an imbalance of blood sugar, can often be regulated by changes in diet and levels of exercise. The number of changes that are necessary is dependant upon how poor of habits the women have to begin with. My sister-in-law and my friend had to make different levels of changes to their diets, but neither had to make such significant changes that their lifestyle was radically altered. Mostly their changes consisted of going on a low-sugar and low-carb eating plan. Gestational diabetes brings a risk of the baby getting too large during its gestational period and needing to be delivered early or by c-section. The more the pregnant mother cuts down on sugar intake, the less likely it is that the baby will get too large to be delivered vaginally.

If you are pregnant or are thinking of becoming pregnant in the near future, take some time and learn about ways to prevent gestational diabetes. It is the best for you and your baby. Prevention is always a better option than having to find a solution to high blood sugar levels. Be wise with your food and exercise choices from the start and you should be able to avoid dealing with gestational diabetes in your pregnancies. Talk with your doctor and take every possible precaution.

---

---

---

The Speed Of KEMPO

Photo  by tsuihin – TimoStudios 

Throughout the world of martial arts, the style known as Kempo is one of the best. Kempo uses extremely fast strikes, which is the area it is most known for.  Kempo has been around for many years, originating from Japan.  It was tested on the ancient battlegrounds, using punches, kicks, and very little grappling.  Kempo employs weapons as well, including disarming techniques against opponents who are using weapons.

What many don’t realize, is that Kempo is actually an older form of Karate.  To be more specific, Kempo mainly uses the forbidden techniques of sports karate and kickboxing to create a devastating means of self-defense.  Throughout this deadly martial art, stylists will be taught that every block is a counter, and ever counter is a block.  Instead of simply blocking an attack, stylists will learn how to block in a way that executes a strike.

The most well-known aspect of Kempo is speed.  If you’ve ever seen it in action by someone who has been studying for many years, the hand speed of the stylist is simply amazing.  Those that have been practicing for many years, including black belts, are able to execute techniques with blinding speed.  Often times, a Kempo stylist can land many strikes before you can even get the chance to counter - or block.

The hand speed in Kempo comes from something known as “speed striking”.  Although Kempo uses weapons and weapons training, it is more an unarmed martial art that teaches students how to defend themselves in any situation.  This style isn’t about just going around and hurting people though, as stylists learn a lot in terms of self-control, and only to react when they are given no other option.

The speed striking in Kempo takes many years to master.  Students of the art will practice forms on a daily basis, which helps with the speed.  By practicing a certain movement over and over again, students will get faster and faster.  They will practice with other students, the instructors, and also with equipment such as punching bags.  Over time, students will get amazingly quick and able to execute strikes with amazing speed and precision.

Shadow boxing is also essential to developing speed with Kempo.  Students will spend quite a bit of time shadow boxing, learning their own movements.  As a result of shadow boxing, students will learn physical resistance as well as improve their levels of fitness.  This also helps with technique as well, as students will be engaged in practice with themselves.

The main exercise where speed striking will really come into play is with sparring.  When sparring, students will test their knowledge and skills against other students.  The instructors will pay close attention during this exercise, to see just how well the students are learning.  Sparring can be very fun to watch, especially when there are two black belts squaring off.  The more time a student spends sparring, the faster he will develop in the art of speed striking.

Throughout the years, Kempo has proved to be a martial art with very fast strikes.  It is one of the fastest striking martial arts in existence, although it teaches students self-control and how to avoid confrontations.  Kempo is taught all around the world, making it an excellent martial art for children as well.  From adults to children, the martial art known as Kempo can teach self-defense, harmony, self-control, self-confidence - and how students can help others in the world live a better life.

---

---

---

Connecting To Your Breath: CHINESE MEDICINE as Meditation

The holistic approach to medicine doesn’t just include sticking needles in your system or taking an extra set of herbs every day.  It also consists of finding an approach to your life that will lead to a well rounded well being.  If you are working towards healing, gaining energy or just feeling better about your everyday life, than approaching Chinese medication is a great way to begin approaching your life differently.

Along with the diagnosis and assessments of your physical body, is the connection to the mind and spirit within Chinese medicine.  Because this is an important concept in Chinese medication, meditation will often be used as a basis for many of the practices.  This is especially seen in practices such as Qigong and Yoga, where meditation combines with physical movement in order to open the energy centers of the body.  

If you are working towards achieving balance in your physical life, then you will want to begin by opening the body centers through meditation.  Even though this is often considered a mental and spiritual practice, it will also affect you physically.  The idea of breath in any Chinese medicine is important, as it clears several of your centers.  This is one of the elements that are never ignored in Chinese medicine.  

Not only will your breath begin to clear your body centers, but it is also proven that the meditation methods will help to improve other areas of your body.  Scientific research has begun to study meditation and how its applications can directly affect your well being.  When you breathe deeply, the extra oxygen will cleanse your system and will also move into areas of your body that need the extra oxygen.  It will also begin to affect your nervous system by stimulating chemicals in your body.  Over time, the meditation practices can detoxify your entire system, helping you to be more energized in your daily life.  

If you are looking into the practices of Chinese medicine, you will also want to consider meditation.  This practice can’t be separated from Chinese medicine or holistic health.  By approaching the mental and spiritual aspects of the medicine, as well as the physical, you will be able to enjoy a well-rounded approach towards the ancient medical practice.  

---

---

---

Agoraphobia & Panic Attacks and HYPNOSIS & NLP

Twist in Tine - Photo  by Alan Cleaver 

Agoraphobia is one of the most debilitating of all phobias. This comes from an irrational fear of unfamiliar or potentially uncomfortable situations and can escalate to the point where a sufferer only feels safe inside their home. If you suffer from agoraphobia, you don't need to let this condition rule your life. You can understand this phobia and find out how to beat it by using hypnosis therapy.

The word agoraphobia means "fear of the marketplace," but individuals may feel anxious in any location with a crowd. These places are often public areas or new locations away from home. Sufferers may be afraid of being in lines, shopping centers, airplanes, restaurants, or any scenario where they might not be completely safe.

Those with agoraphobia are scared of having panicky feelings or anxiety attacks in a situation where it would be hard or impossible for them to leave. Agoraphobics usually lead normal and happy lives in the places where they are comfortable, even entertaining guests and holding a job from the safety of their own homes. Unfortunately, the phobia can be so extreme that many times sufferers will only feel secure in extremely confined areas. A recent case revealed a woman whose anxiety was so severe that she didn't come out of her bathroom for years, causing damage to her own health as a result.

Agoraphobia often arises from other anxiety disorders and fears. For example, sufferers of social phobia often develop agoraphobia because they are nervous about having to socialize with others. It may also be caused by traumatic incidents such as having an accident far from home. Soldiers will frequently develop the phobia along with post-traumatic stress disorder. It can affect both women and men, although it is believed that agoraphobia is more common in women.

People suffering from agoraphobia might believe that they risk embarrassing themselves if they go out and experience a panic attack. It is often humiliating for a phobia sufferer to have symptoms such as trembling, sweating, or a nervous breakdown and lose their self-control.

Agoraphobia is often treated with anti-anxiety medication or counseling. It can be particularly challenging to treat because sufferers may have other anxiety disorders and underlying causes of their issues.

The reason why phobia sufferers cannot seem to handle their fears is that their feelings are based at the unconscious level. No amount of willpower or conscious effort is entirely effective to suppress a fear that stems from this level of the mind.

The techniques in Ericksonian hypnosis and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) are effective on phobias because they work deep within the unconscious mind. Hypnosis is an ideal treatment option because it is non-invasive and safe, with no negative side effects.

There are Ericksonian hypnosis and NLP programs available on CD that are incredible because they can cure any phobia or even multiple phobias. It is not necessary to get a program that deals specifically with each different phobia. A good program will work with the thought process that triggers any phobia. This makes this sort of program ideal for many people with agoraphobia.

Additionally, a good multi-session program will provide a variety of techniques, which makes the program effective for virtually every user. With a step-by-step program, people can beat their phobias with relative ease.

The first step in the hypnosis phobia program is becoming calm and relaxed. As a form of therapy, hypnosis has long been used for stress-relief, letting even the most stressed-out people feel rested and relaxed. Once an individual feels calm and relaxed, NLP techniques eliminate a phobia by changing the single thought process that causes it.

Ericksonian hypnosis is a remarkable form of hypnotherapy that uses suggestions embedded in a conversation, story or metaphor to treat a phobia. Ericksonian hypnosis is more effective than conventional hypnosis because the unconscious mind finds it harder to resist suggestions that are not obvious, than direct suggestions. Instead of direct suggestions, which "tell" your unconscious what to do, suggestions that are found in interesting stories and metaphors will direct the unconscious into a positive, worry-free thought process.

People who are afraid to step outside the house can get their confidence and freedom by trying hypnotic techniques. A program with Ericksonian hypnosis techniques and NLP techniques is ideal for people who would like to beat their fears permanently. Hypnosis therapies offer a tremendous benefit for people with agoraphobia and other anxiety disorders.

Alan B. Densky, CH has been treating phobias using Hypnotherapy since 1978. He offers phobia treatment hypnotherapy CDs plus a broad range of NLP CDs for stress & depression-related symptoms. Visit his website for free hypnotism downloads. Article Directory: EzineArticles

---

---

---

ODIN's Ravens, Magical Myth and Fact!

Odin enthroned with weapons, wolves and ravens.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Norse myth tells us that the god Odin has two ravens perched on his shoulders. Their names are Huginn (meaning thought) and Muninn (meaning memory). These Ravens, are more than Odin's pets, they are his informants and messengers. He sends them out every day into the world, upon their return, they relate to Odin everything that they have seen and heard.

But what do we really know about "ravens" in general? I thought it would be interesting to explore this subject. Ravens, are in a family of birds called corvids and are powerfully associated with witchcraft and magic.

Ravens are in the same family of birds as crows. But ravens hunt more than crows, who are mainly scavengers. When mythology distinguishes between the two, ravens are usually associated with transformative magic while crows are identified with healing. Both are teachers and sponsors of magic and shamanism.

Ravens are characterized by their shiny black color and their raucous, loud voices. Daytime birds they noisily greet the sun. As a result, they are identified with solar power and may be understood to venerate the Sun themselves.

Ravens, are in many worldwide myths and are generally considered to be "trickster" heroes. This includes Celtic, Greek, Hungarian, Japanese, Native American, Scandinavian, Vietnamese, but most especially in the indigenous traditions of Siberia and North America's Pacific Northwest.

Ravens are assertive and unafraid of people; and willing to play a joke on a person, as well as a dog, cat or on each other. Shiny things attract them and they have been known to steal them.

The associations of Ravens with witchcraft and shamanism pre-date Christianity. After Christianity took hold the perceptions of Ravens changed. Rather than positive associations with wise-women, shaman, and seers Ravens were now associated with diabolism and sin.

In the eyes of the Christian Church, this probably had a lot to do with their color, black, their sharp harsh voices, intelligence and assertive nature. Shades of the wicked queen's ravens in Walt Disney's version of,"Snow White"?

Because Ravens are blackbirds and daily herald the light, the church identified them with Satan in his guise as Lucifer, the fallen angel and light bringer.

Brightest of Blessings,

Lory

By Lory Woortman Lory Woortman is a writer, watercolor artist and garden designer. Lory is interested in the study of quantum physics, Norse Myths and Religion. She lives in a small country town in North East Pennsylvania with her writer husband, Ellis and her little dog Dixie. Lory has a blog and written many articles that are "Free," pertaining to Norse Mythology, Shamanism, Runes and Quantum Physics. http://mistressofenchantment.blogspot.com/ Article Source: EzineArticles

---

---

---

Replacing Hormones for HEALTHY AGING

The Eyes of Age - Photo  by Anne Worner 

Aging can affect all of us by changing our hormone levels. As we age the level of a hormone that is formed by, our glands decline. Our glands produce the hormones and release them through the bloodstreams. As we grow older, hormone production slows. To correct the slowness sometimes hormone replacement is essential. Before you jump the gun, however, searching for a replacement take note that medical experts discovered that men who seek hormone replacement therapy should consider carefully. The replacement therapy is behind, or part of the cause of prostate cancer. You want to check with your doctor always before taking any non-prescribed supplements, therapy treatments, etc.

Our body produces two major hormones that are very important. We start to lose these necessary elements as aging progresses. Our body relies on estrogen and testosterone to keep our metabolism, sex reproduction functions and so forth healthy.

Testosterone is not only important for the men but women too.  Men need a higher-level of testosterone. The hormones are what promote facial hair, larger muscles, and deeper voices. Testosterone is what makes the men seem younger and helps them to perform sexually since it is their drive. As it lowers in men, they lose their sex drive. On the other hand, too much testosterone in our bodies can induce side effects, such as heart disease and enlarge the prostate glands. For this purpose, you want to consult with your doctor before taking replacement hormone therapy.

Estrogen is the other major hormone that our bodies need to keep up with life in general.  Women take estrogen to counteract menopause by taking a supplement direct by their doctor. Taking estrogen can also help reduce the risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, Alzheimer's. Estrogen therapy reduces our risks, yet side effects can lead to uterus or breast cancer. Some women experience blood clotting while others may not. In addition, some women have endured heart attacks and strokes after taking estrogen therapy units. Like all other supplements or treatments over-the-counter, one must consult with their physician before taking the treatments. Discuss the good and bad points of taking replacement therapies, such as estrogen and testosterone.

Do you have a hard time sleeping at night?

Maybe you’re lacking the Melatonin hormone. The lack of melatonin is known to interrupt sleeping patterns as we age. Our glands produce Melatonin and it slows down, as we grow older. A study shows that while we are sleeping during the hours of 8PM and 5AM, is when this hormone is produced the most. By taking Melatonin supplements, it can help in the reduction of breast cancer and help to reverse aging along with improving our sleep. The side effects may include drowsiness. Melatonin can cause the blood vessels to constrict as well. It depends if your body has sufficient or deficient amounts. Again, talk with your doctor first. Melatonin according to few can cause heart conditions. Melatonin is dangerous to those diagnosed with high blood pressure. Like most things, it is very important to consult your physician before taking this supplement.

Discussing the aspects of healthy aging:

We have various aspects of the body to consider when discussing healthy aging. Our body produces hormones, cell bodies, neurons, and so on. When our bodily functions are interrupted, it affects the body and mind as a whole and determines how fast we will age. Still, you must consider that environmental factors, doctors, medications, smoking, using alcohol excessively and so forth plays a part in our aging process. In fact, we have to review normal aging versus abnormal aging when considering healthy aging.

---

---

Diamonds - Palaeolithic age

Venus of Willendorf - Picture: Wikipedia

As a species, we love to adorn ourselves with jewelry, makeup, hair accessories. We do it now to enhance our looks, to attract a mate and because it just makes us feel good about ourselves. Some forms of adornment are symbolic – like wedding rings. Or they’re used to make a statement about our lifestyles, like multiple piercings and earrings.

Have you ever wondered what the origins are of such self-decoration? Was there a meaning behind it? Or did we just start wearing beads, necklaces, and earrings as our awareness of self-increased and as we evolved?

We know that the earliest jewelry of bits of bones, shells and other personal adornments appeared in graves about 40,000 years ago. The idea that there was an afterlife, and the belief in spirits both good and bad, gave rise to the means to attract the good spirits and ward off the bad ones.

People protected themselves from evil spirits with adornments in the form of necklaces or bracelets and pierced themselves with the same bones and shells to have these amulets on their persons at all times. At this time people also started painting their bodies with red ochre, which can be considered the earliest form of makeup. They also started lining their eyes with kohl to protect themselves against the force known as the “Evil Eye.”

Even today, much jewelry takes the form of amulets. People wear crosses around their necks, or the Star of David, or wear a Claddagh ring – all to attract good fortune or ward off bad luck. There are even more throwbacks to this earliest form of magic, such as a lucky rabbit’s foot, or a lucky penny. Or we often have less well known, more personal amulets that have a meaning to us alone but are still worn as good luck charms and amulets.

---

---