Benefits of CHAIR YOGA – Part 2

We have all heard the saying, “Rome wasn’t built in a day.” Those words are extremely profound when thinking about correcting poor posture and alignment. It takes years to create poor alignment.

Therefore, poor posture cannot be corrected in a single day. A more appropriate saying, when thinking about posture and alignment might be, “The leaning tower of Pisa cannot become straight in a week.”

However, improvements to posture can be made through Chair Yoga exercises and through daily “posture awareness.” In my classes, I refer to posture awareness as “homework.” It usually draws a chuckle from students, but they also know that class time is the time to learn and practice Chair Yoga together.

Time away from the Yoga class is when you put the principles you have learned, in motion, and adapt them to your lifestyle. I cannot promise Chair 

Yoga is a “cure all,” but you will see improvements in every aspect of your life. However, practicing your homework separates the fantastic success stories from those who see some modest improvement.

So, what is posture awareness? This is taking the time to be aware of your posture, on a daily basis. The first thing you want to do in order to open your awareness looks at your side profile in a mirror and any photographs of yourself. At this point, look at your spine from top to bottom.

Do you see slumping, forward tilting of the neck, or extra large curves? Your spine should be aligned so that it is fairly straight at all times. During a number of daily activities such as: Standing, walking, reading, eating, sitting, lying, typing, and more, you should make a conscious effort, to keep your head and back straight.

Now, we can all remember a schoolteacher who preached, “Keep your back straight,” but now we know that he or she was absolutely correct. Take the time to adjust your spinal alignment, from this moment on, and every time you can remember to do so.

If possible, you should also attend any workshops about Chiropractic and 

Orthopedic medicine. Educate yourself about your body, your spine, and your choices. You can usually find these workshops and many more valuable meetings at your local senior center. These workshops are usually free, you are under no obligation, and it makes for a good “Fact-finding mission.”

The alignment and posture principles, you learn in a Chair Yoga class, can be as simple as, “Pain or no pain.”

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Benefits of CHAIR YOGA – Part 1

Chair Yoga via Wikimedia Commons.

In comparison to many forms of exercise, the benefits of Chair Yoga far outweigh the risks. The therapeutic exercises work the body, from head to toes, to the best of any client’s ability.

Therefore, the method used addresses the whole body in a single routine. 

This is an amazing feat, for a low-impact exercise program, where the average session lasts 45 to 60 minutes. The following information will highlight some of the many benefits of regular participation in a Chair Yoga class.

Increased circulation is a result of movement and every body part that can move is used in a typical Chair Yoga class. For many of us, we think of cardiovascular health first, and this is rightfully so, but Chair Yoga helps many other forms of circulation, within the body, as well.

To sit still for days on end, we invite diseases of many kinds. Diabetics need a movement to keep sugar levels in “tolerance zones.” Chair Yoga also has routines for the feet, toes, hands, and fingers, so there is no part of the body left out. Due to this whole body approach, the immune system is also stimulated by regularly attending Chair Yoga classes.

The many movements, bending, and twisting, in a regular Chair Yoga session, stimulate the elimination of toxins, within the body. Every time you bend the waist in one direction or another, the stomach aids in digestion and the lower back is gently stimulated.

Now, back to cardiovascular benefits - There seems to be a lot of confusion about what is classified as aerobic exercise. One of the definitions for aerobic exercise is Any exercise that would increase circulatory and respiratory ability. When the heart and lungs have to work harder to keep up with the body's need for oxygen that is aerobic.

In fact, gardening and housework are also aerobic exercises that most seniors routinely do. This is not to say that gardening and housework are complete health maintenance systems, but they do burn over 200 calories per hour, for the average person, and meet the aerobic definition.

Much of this mentality stems from the “No pain – No gain” era. Most of the original advocates of this theory are now “nursing their own wounds” and practicing gentler forms of exercise. After all, none of us are immortal, and the body can only take so much abuse over time.

May I remind anyone, who is left standing, from the No pain – No gain era, that walking is also classified as aerobic exercise. So, whether you walk or run a mile, aerobic benefits are gained and significant calories are burned.

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ASTROLOGY Chart Forecast

The descendant is a directly across from the ascendant (As) in the chart, in the three o'clock position
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

There have been a lot of astrology reading nowadays who can access by anyone, and turn out to be in the end an expert by their possess person countryside which is a supernatural birth chart. On the additional hand over there encompass been additional judgment in giving the impression of life form winning by these and in the well-known words, the huge philosopher.

Birth chart or also known as the natal chart is a tool used on astrology to gain comprehensive information concerning the whole character of a person basing on the applicable data given - date, time and place of birth. A single mistake will make a lot of difference to the wholeness of the birth chart reading. On the other hand, it should be noted that birth chart does not guarantee 100% reliability. People have their own decisions and mind that will guide them on the right path. If you want to know what your birth chart means, just make sure that your life should not be dependent on what your birth chart tells you. Astrology readings are here to only guide us so you should not allow what your life should be base on the predictions because as defined, a birth chart is just part of the divination in mythology where methodical meaning has not been established. In Australia no essence what your devout, flawless or systematic preferential treatment you authority be, it make come into view as if you are in a little part of a build improved to consider birth chart.

Astrology chart gives forecast concerning a person's love life, health, opportunities, and more. Its accurateness is extremely dependent relative on the precision of each detail given.

The precise time of a person’s birth reflects a lot when it comes to accurate birth chart and natal chart. When making a birth chart and natal chart based on the person's date, time, and place of birth, each planet is allocated to a zodiac sign, referring to the placement of the planet in the collection during a person's birth. However, could it be possible that not all signs will be represented?

In a birth chart and natal chart, there are 10 planets (Sun is considered a planet in astrology, and Pluto is also still considered a planet). That repeatedly means that not all 12 zodiac signs will become visible in the chart. Sometimes, 2 planets might be found in 1 sign, leading to more zodiac signs that do not appear in a person's chart.

A birth chart is a tool in astrology where the precise location of stars by the time you were born is analyzed. The precise birth time matches with the first breath of the baby by the time he goes out of the womb. A difference in time can affect the reading because of the following reasons: House of zodiac revolves by 1 degree every 4 minutes. Horoscope is divided into 12 houses, which are seen on the ecliptic plane of the sun. Their position is time and location dependent; therefore, it incessantly changes as time passes. Since it revolves by 1 degree every 4 minutes, it is much obvious that a discrepancy of even a single minute will result in an inaccurate reading.

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ESSENTIAL OILS - Orange - An Oil Rich in Limonene That Combats Tumors

Orange blossom and oranges.
Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Orange (Citrus sinensis) is in the citrus family of botanical plants. The essential oil comes from many different countries including the U.S. Originating in Asia the sweet orange tree was brought to Europe in 1520 by Portuguese explorers. Along with the lemon tree, it was introduced to the New World by Columbus and was grown in both the West Indies and in Florida. Traditionally in China, the rind of the unripe bitter orange was of greatest value medicinally-primarily to stimulate the digestion and relieve spasm. It was also considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity. In the 18th century Europe, oranges gained a reputation for alleviating nervous disorders, heart problems, colic, asthma, and melancholy.

How Can Orange Essential Oil Help Us Today?

Today, orange oil has been documented in research studies to be antitumoral, a relaxant, anticoagulant, and a circulatory stimulant. Rich in limonene, it has combated tumor growth in over 50 clinical studies. Its therapeutic value lies in its ability to unblock and circulate stagnant energy, mainly when it accumulates in the liver, stomach, and intestines. It is one of the best all-around essential oils for the digestive system. It's great for abdominal distention and pain, poor appetite, indigestion, flatulence, nausea, and vomiting. It can also be effective for constipation and irritable bowel. Orange essential oil is used in arteriosclerosis, hypertension, cancer, insomnia, and fluid retention. It is particularly useful for skin care, especially for cellulite and dry skin conditions and calluses. It also is helpful for wrinkles. It is wonderful for opening the heart, beneficial for sadness, nervousness, and anxiety. Orange can be relaxing and energizing at the same time. Sweet orange oil helps us take a more relaxed approach, encouraging adaptability and the smooth handling of events in our lives. It instills a more positive attitude in life. Orange contains joy and energy. It is bursting with vitality, bringing happiness to the heavyhearted. It can kindle a spark long forgotten and revitalize spiritual connections. Orange conquers fears of letting go, and obsessions. For emotional healing, use orange to encourage joy, upliftment, lightheartedness, regeneration, creativity, self-confidence and a positive outlook.

To use orange oil, dilute one part essential oil with one part mixing oil or apply neat (undiluted) to the body. It can be directly inhaled or diffused and taken as a dietary supplement. It can also be dropped directly on the tongue to freshen breath. I find orange essential oil to be one of my favorites, especially for cooking. It mixes well with bergamot, coriander, clove, geranium, ginger, lemon, marjoram, neroli, patchouli, petitgrain, sandalwood, jasmine, rose, ylang-ylang, sandalwood, juniper, cypress, lavender, rosemary, clary sage, labdanum, and frankincense. As for safety, orange is non-toxic, not irritating and non-sensitizing. This is a phototoxic oil however and caution should be taken when applying to the skin and going out in the sunlight within 24 hours of application. Want to learn more about the healing properties of orange and other essential oils? Consider becoming a certified aromatherapist. Educational courses in healing energy and aromatherapy can help you understand how essential oils heal the body/mind/spirit. The Institute of Spiritual Healing & Aromatherapy is teaching courses throughout the United States on the healing properties of essential oils including orange.

BONUS GIFT By Going to my website: http://www.ISHAhealing.com and signing up for our free monthly newsletter, you can receive a free gift: 5 Monographs on Biblical Oils. These oils include Frankincense, Myrrh, Cedarwood, Spikenard and Balsam Fir. While you are at our website, check out our aromatherapy program and our program in Christian energy healing. From Linda L. Smith, director of the Institute of Spiritual Ministry and Aromatherapy, Inc. Article Directory: EzineArticles

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Foods That May Help Those with Allergies

Hives on DLdoubleE's back from an allergic reaction (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Do you suffer from allergies?  If you do, you may be looking for natural ways to seek relief.  The good news is that you do have a number of different options.  One of those options is food.  Did you know that there are some food products that can help you reduce or seek relief from many common allergy symptoms?  There are.

Before focusing on a few of the specific foods that you can eat, as way to reduce or seek relief from your allergy symptoms, it is important to know and understand the benefits of eating a good, healthy diet.  When you eat healthy foods, your body and immune system should be in top-notch health.  This cannot only prevent you from developing the common cold, but it can also help to reduce your allergy symptoms or at least make them more easier to manage.

As for the foods that you may want eat to seek relief, lime can be used. When using lime, many allergy sufferers recommend taking one lime or a half a lime and squeezing the juice into a cup of room temperature water.  Drinking this mixture daily for a month or two can provide you with relief.  Some individuals also recommend adding in about a teaspoon of honey.  Honey is another food that can help to provide you with relief.

Vegetable juices are also advised.  In fact, some studies found that vegetable juices are effective with the treatment of allergies.  There are also many medical professionals who encourage their patients to drink vegetable juice.  Some juices, like carrot juice, can be taken alone.  However, many have also seen success with creating their own mixed vegetable juices.  Carrot juice that is mixed with cucumber juice and beet juice is recommended by many.

Bananas are another food that many can eat to seek relief from allergies.  When using this natural food approach, it is recommended that you eat at least one banana, although two is recommend, daily for a month or two.  Although bananas can provide relief to most who suffer from allergies, they tend to provide the most relief to those who suffer from skin allergies or skin rashes that develop because of a small allergic reaction.

A solid diet of fruits and vegetables is also advised.  As stated above, bananas and lime are known to provide relief to those who suffer from many allergies.  Others fruits and vegetables that you may want to consume include apples, grapes, and carrots.  Some individuals recommend starting out slow, like by eating one fruit or vegetable first and then adding something else in a few days or a week later.  This recommendation is most commonly made when a fast is also used.

Although the above mentioned food products will likely provide you with relief, it is important to proceed with caution.  It will all depend on what type of allergy you have.  For example, bananas was sited above as a great way to help those who develop skin rashes, like with pet allergies.  With that in mind, those who suffer from food allergies may not be able to eat a banana without having an allergic reaction themselves.  That is why caution should always be used, especially with food allergies. If you do have a food allergy, do the proper amount of research first.  This may involve scheduling a visit with your doctor or using the internet, namely trusted medical websites like WebMD, to do your own research.

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Esbats and Sabbats - The Holy Days of WITCHCRAFT

A photograph of a painted Wheel of the Year from the Museum of Witchcraft, Boscastle.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Every religion has its own days of power, reverence, and celebration. Wicca is no different in this regard. The holidays that Wiccans celebrate are referred to as Sabbats or the Eight High Holy days. They occur approximately every six weeks and denote the changing of the seasons. The sun, as a representation of the God, is revered during a sabbat, and the ceremony for a particular holiday is often performed at high noon. The other type of holy day that is more familiar to most people is the Esbat. The Esbat is a monthly occurrence that generally coincides with the moon being full. It is the night when witches gather to perform a ritual and magickal workings for the coming month.

This article will detail all of these holy days and hopefully shed a little light on what witches do throughout the year to honor their Deities.

The Esbat

As stated above, the Esbat is a ceremony that coincides with the cycles of the moon. Generally, the day that it is done occurs when the moon is full, though this is not necessary. The full moon is significant because witches firmly believe that the power of magickal workings wax and wane with the phases of the moon. When the moon is waxing or becoming fuller, it is good to perform rites that are drawing things to you or increasing positive influences in general. When the moon is waning or diminishing, it is good for banishing influences that are no longer wanted or getting rid of negativity. Yet when the moon is full, the magickal workings are at their peak, and it is good for nearly any rite that a witch may wish to perform. The new moon, or dark moon, occurs when the moon is not visible at all. During this time, the rites that are performed are either for extreme protection rites or negative magicks.

On whatever day the esbat is performed, it is done in the evening or at night. The reason behind this is that these rites are meant to be working with the Goddess, who represented by the moon.

The actual process of performing the esbat can be summed up very concisely. The witch or coven will gather at a designated ritual space. There, they will cast a circle, and perform rites that will raise their magickal and psychic power, and then direct that power at their desired goal. Since there are so many variables as to what a witch or group of witches may wish to direct their energy, it is difficult to offer up an example of what these rites may entail.

However, one of the things that is a common theme among esbats is that it is a time for connecting and communing with Deity. This is often done by the reciting of The Wiccan Rede and The Charge of the Goddess while in a circle. Afterward, time may be spent in either meditation or performing acts of divination with tarot cards, runes or other means. This is followed by a communion of cakes and wine, where the gathered witches will celebrate their coming together and catch up on the previous month and make plans for the coming one. Then the ritual circle is opened, the leftover cakes and wine are offered up to Nature, and the witches will go their separate ways.

The Eight High Holy Days

There are eight major holidays that Wiccans celebrate:

- Samhain (pronounce saw-vin or sow-en) 

- Yule 

- Candlemas 

- Ostara 

- Beltane 

- Midsummer 

- Lammas 

- and Mabon

Each of the Holy Days represents a different turning of the seasons, and a different phase of life. The common representation of these phases is the God, though many practitioners incorporate an aspect of the Goddess in some fashion as well. They are primarily Sun festivals, and, unlike esbats, the rituals are often performed when the sun is at its highest in the sky.

Sabbats are usually large gatherings where entire families will come together and celebrate with food and drink in addition to the religious rites.

Samhain

Samhain is probably the most recognizable of all of the Wiccan Sabbats. It falls on October 31st and signifies the ending of one cycle of the year. While many view it as the beginning of the next yearly cycle, that does not actually occur until Yule in December.

The main symbolism behind this holiday is death and honoring loved ones that have passed on. It is commonly thought that on this night, the veil between the worlds is at its thinnest, and witches take advantage of this opportunity to communicate with their family and friends who have passed on.

Samhain is also the last harvest festival of the year, and the last opportunity for the coven and their families to come together to share their resources before digging in for the winter. The period of time between Samhain and Yule is spent contemplating plans for the coming year and remembering the year that has passed.

Yule

Yule is generally thought to coincide with the Christian holiday of Christmas. This is not precisely so. Yule actually falls on the day of the winter solstice, which generally falls on or around December 21st.

The significance of this holiday is that of rebirth. This is the day where the days begin to grow longer, and the sun is making a comeback. The general representation of this is of Holly King, a Dark God, passing and being replaced by the Oak King, or Sun God. Though the sabbat that signifies the beginning of the year may vary from tradition to tradition, this is the one that is most popular in signifying the beginning of the year.

All of the sabbats represent a phase of life, and Yule falls into the fertility category. This is a time of conception, where the beginnings of life begin to stir. When covens and families come together on this holiday, plans begin to be made for the coming year, as well as preparations for the coming spring.

Candlemas

Candlemas is also known by the name of Imbolc. It is well and truly the first fertility festival of springtime. The specific date that this day falls on varies from tradition to tradition, but it can be anywhere from January 31st to February 2nd. At this time, we are beginning to see the very first signs of spring, and the renewal of life.

The festivities for Candlemas all center on clearing out the old and making way for the new. The Maiden aspect of the Goddess is honored at this time, as are any Gods and Goddesses that relate to love and fertility. This holiday is considered an especially auspicious time for a new marriage or relationship.

One of the traditional symbols of Candlemas is the plough. They are often decorated and incorporated into the festivities. Another tradition for the holiday is to create a besom, a simple broom constructed of twigs or straw, and use it to ritually cleanse the home. It is then placed near the front, symbolizing sweeping out the old and welcoming the new.

Ostara

Also called Eostar, this High Holy Day falls on the spring equinox, on or near March 21st. This is the second of the three fertility festivals. Springtime is coming in full force at this time, and planting for the year's crops is well underway. New spring growth can be seen everywhere, and the Gods are petitioned for luck with the crops and the home.

Two of the traditional symbols for this holiday is the egg and the rabbit. The egg is an emblem of new life and new growth, and it is incorporated into many ritual workings and festivities at this time. The rabbit, known for its prolific mating habits, is also a symbol of growth and abundance. Both also symbolize change. The Christian faith has fully adopted both of these symbols into their celebrations that occur at near the same time.

Beltane

Also known as May Day, this Holy Day falls on May first. It is the last of the fertility festivals for the year, and with it comes unabashed sexuality for many traditions. The May Pole is one symbol of this holiday that is found throughout many traditions. It is a tall pole set in the ground, symbolizing the Sun God uniting with Earth. It is decorated with long ribbons and fresh flowers, and, of course, maidens traditionally dance around the pole.

One of the traditional May Day activities for this holiday is to secretly leave baskets of flowers and goodies at the doors of your neighbors.

Generally, this is a holiday that celebrates and revels in the return of the sun.

Midsummer

This Holy Day celebrates the God, represented by the sun in all of his glory. It is celebrated on the summer solstice when the longest day of the year takes place. Midsummer is neither a fertility festival nor a harvest festival. In this way, it is similar to Yule. On this day, rites often center on protection for the home and family for the coming year, rites of divination, and celebrating the abundance of The Oak King in his prime of life.

For those who work with faerie energy in their rites, Midsummer is an ideal time to commune with them. It is a common tradition for witches to go out in the twilight and look for faerie folk in stands of oak, ash and thorn trees.

Lammas

Another name for this holiday is Lughnassadh. It occurs on August 1st, and it is the first of the three harvest sabbats celebrated by witches. Attention turns now to harvest the crops and gardens, and preparations begin for the coming winter. The days are beginning to grow shorter, and the Sun God begins to lose his strength as the days grow shorter.

As this is the time of year when we first begin to reap the bounties of harvest, it is often a holiday accompanied with feasting and celebration. Decorations and dollies are often made from dried ears of corn, and used in rites and to decorate the home.

Mabon

Mabon is the primary harvest festival, the counterpoint to Ostara, and it occurs on the Autumnal Equinox. On this day, witches pay homage to retreat daylight and prepare for the coming winter. This holiday symbolizes the God in old age and readying for his impending death and rebirth.

Though this holiday is a little more somber than the rest of them, it is also one where Wiccans are sure to give thanks for what they have received throughout the past year. It is a popular time of year for witches and pagans to give back to their communities and generally share their bountiful harvests.

With so many holidays to celebrate, Wiccans always have something to look forward to in their faith. As the seasons come and go, witches around the world celebrate the wheel of the year. Though traditions and names may be a little different from place to place, they are all basically the same at heart.

By Joshua Traversie - Article Source: EzineArticles

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ASTHMA Treatment Ways

Asthma can be treated in many ways

1. Using conventional medicines and therapies

2. Using alternative medicines such as herbs or other traditional medicines

3. By using alternative therapies such as Yoga, Acupuncture, etc... 

Every type of therapy has its own scope and time span. The first and the most widely accepted therapy is the conventional medicines and procedures. In this procedure of asthma treatment, the patient is treated in two ways

1. Short-term treatment

2. Long-term treatment

Short term asthma treatment involves the instant relief of the patient from asthma attacks. Short-term treatment involves the administration of inhalers and orally administered drugs. Asthma cannot be cured, but the scope of asthma can be controlled with the help of a proper asthma management program.

Short-term treatment is done mainly by using Metered Dose Inhalers or MDIs. Dry powder inhalers are also gaining favor in the treatment of asthma.

For those patients who cannot use the MDI’s, nebulizer therapy is used.

Long-term asthma treatment involves more of Parallel treatment and lesser use of drugs.

In parallel asthma treatment, environmental components and surrounding analysis are done to minimize the factors that lead to Asthma attacks. In this type of treatment environment components such as pollen grains, allergens etc are minimized from the patient’s surroundings to minimize the chances of an asthma attack.

For this it is necessary that the patient’s place of residence be cleaned every week, the patient must be kept away from pets with fur or feather, weekly washing of the bedding of the patient in hot water.

Avoid using a synthetic material in the patient’s bedding, replace upholstery based furniture to vinyl or leather ones. 

Remove carpeted floors. They may contain dust particles that could cause problems to the asthma patient.

Use the Air conditioner to protect the patient from subtle temperature changes.

Keep the house dry. Humidity affects the asthma patient.

After the parallel asthma treatment is completed, lung functioning is monitored to look for effective changes. After this, medicines like corticosteroids and bronchodilators are administered. A periodic check-up is necessary to know about any changes in the condition of the patient.

For patients have persistent asthma attacks, an annual dose of influenza vaccine is necessary.

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Hair Loss ALOE VERA Treatment And Other Natural Hair Loss Treatments

Aloe Vera - Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Many people feel that the problem of hair loss cannot be solved with the help of hair loss treatment products. They often get frustrated after spending too much money on ineffective hair loss remedies and their side effects with no positive results at all. In reality, hair loss treatment can be divided into two categories: Natural hair loss treatments and chemical treatments.

Here are some best hair natural hair loss treatments:

Aloe Vera

Indians, Native Americans, and Caribbeans have used Aloe Vera to promote healthy hair and prevent hair loss since ages. Aloe Vera balances the pH of the scalp and heals from within. It is also helpful in cleansing the pores. A general remedy of Aloe Vera gel with coconut milk and a small amount of wheat germ oil used as a shampoo has shown great benefits. Aloe Vera surely helps you stop hair loss.

Jojoba

If you are affected with hair problems like eczema, psoriasis, dandruff or seborrhea you are requested to use jojoba oil. Native Americans and Mexicans have used jojoba oil for centuries to prevent hair loss and to control dandruff. Jojoba oil works well for hypoallergenic skin, as is a good moisturizer. This is one of the best hair loss treatment products.

Henna

Henna is a traditional Indian herb, which is a good natural conditioner and works great as a hair loss treatment product. It heals hair shaft by sealing the cuticle and repairing, stops breakage and restores the silky-shiny effect of your hair.

Capsicum - It stimulates hair growth by 50% and increases the flow of blood to the scalp. This herb is effective in preventing hair loss.

Lemongrass - This herb helps to stabilize oil product in the scalp. It also provides nourishment to the hair. You can use oil of lemongrass for massage as well.

Dong Quai - Formation of DHT is the main cause of hair loss. Dong Quai contains phytoestrogens, which reduces the formation of DHT. Hence, Dong Quai is believed to be helpful in hair loss.

It is recommended that you consult an expert to know which hair loss treatment product is suitable for you.

By Oliver Turner Article Directory: EzineArticles

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Pros And Cons Of TATTOOS

tattoo work by Keith Killingsworth (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

These days’ tattoos are more common than ever.  Tattoos have gained quite a bit in popularity over the years, giving people a chance to stand out and broadcast who they really are.  Men and women alike have tattoos, some covering their entire body.  The choice is entirely up to you though, as you can get a tattoo in virtually any size you want.

Even though there are many good things about tattoos, there are bad things as well.  Among the good things about tattoos include the chance to broadcast who you are, the chance to be you, and the chance to stand out.  Most people who get tattoos get them for the symbolic meaning.  Although there are some who get tattoos strictly for the look, many end up regretting getting the tattoo later on in life.

Tattoos are great for the show, although the design itself should hold some meaning.  There are a variety of designs and colors to choose from, which helps to add to the positive benefits of tattoos.  You can check out many designs at your local tattoo studio, in books and magazines, and on the Internet.  The Internet is a great resource for tattoo designs, as there are literally thousands to look at.  You can also look at pictures of those who have tattoos so you can get an idea as to what a certain style will look like once it has been finished.

The cons of tattoos are pretty straightforward.  Tattoos work by piercing the skin with a needle and injecting little gobs of ink.  With that being said the risk of infection when getting a tattoo is always there.  If the tattoo artist isn’t sanitary and doesn’t clean his equipment after every use, the risk of infection will be much higher.

Another thing to worry about with tattoos is removal.  If you later decide that you don’t want the tattoo, you’ll have to pay an expensive price to have it surgically removed.  Surgery carries risks and complications as well.  In some cases, those who have got tattoos have had to have the tattoo removed due to infection.  In these cases, the infection has gotten so bad that there really is no other choice than to get the tattoo removed.

No matter how you look at it, there will always be both pros and cons with tattoos.  Before you decide to get a tattoo, you should make sure that the design you have picked out is something that you can see yourself with for years to come.  If there is any doubt in your mind about the tattoo, you shouldn’t get it.  Even though it may seem cool at the time – the price for removal and the complications with surgery may not be worth it in the long run.

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Expressions of SYMPATHY

Photo  by Debs (ò‿ó)♪ 

Even the most talkative and eloquent among us are often at a loss for words when it comes to helping people deal with the death of someone close to them.  We want to express our sympathy, our sharing of their feelings, but we don't know how to do it.  Words can be comforting, but they're also fleeting.  So we turn to more tangible expressions of sympathy.

Sympathy gifts come in many forms.  A card with a thoughtful message is often the first thing we seek.  There is a surprising array of choices to be made when selecting a card.  The natural inclination is often to pick a card that reflects the giver's beliefs as opposed to focusing on those of the bereaved.  Some sympathy cards contain short generic messages and are appropriate for acquaintances such as co-workers with whom one does not have a close personal relationship.  Other cards reflect religious or spiritual themes, which may bring great comfort at such a difficult time.  The final type of card emphasizes the friendship between the giver and receiver.  These cards assure the receiver that a true friend will be ready to provide support in any way possible.

We shouldn't underestimate the long-lasting impact a sympathy gift will have on the recipient.  This point was driven home for me when I gave a plant to a co-worker.  (It was spring and I was transplanting recently rooted baby spider plants to share with friends and acquaintances.)  The next day she told me that she had cried when she brought it home and put it on her table.

It turned out that her father had died several years earlier.  At that time, someone gave her a plant as a sympathy gift.  Watching the plant grow and burst into life over the years always comforted her by reminding her of the energy and enthusiasm for life her father had displayed.  Did that gift giver have any idea of the power of that simple condolence gift  - that it would console her for years? 

Unbeknownst to me, a couple weeks before I offered her that new little plant, her old one had died and she had to dispose of it.  It upset her to see that empty place on the table every day.  She told me that when she brought home my plant and placed it in its spot, it was like that life and energy returned, once again reminding of her in a positive way of her father.

Though it may be difficult to express our sympathy at times, we should all take comfort in knowing that the gestures we make and tokens we give in sympathy are gifts that really will comfort the hearts and souls of the recipients.

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A Key Element In SOLAR PANELS - Efficiency

A modern solar cell (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

While solar energy is most often associated with the production of electricity, heating is also a major platform. While heating isn’t particularly difficult, efficiency in doing so is the key to saving wear and tear on your system.

A Key Element In Solar Panels - Efficiency

The sun produces a ton of energy, but solar panel systems have historically been very inefficient at converting it. With improving technology, efficiency has improved to the point where most panel systems can easily produce enough energy to heat water for the home and pools. There are efficient and inefficient ways to go about this process.

To save wear and tear on your panels, you need to consider a flow control system. Older panel systems tend to take a long time to heat up fluid because water more or less randomly circulates through the system. This is very inefficient because the panels are forced to heat up a much larger pool of water than you actually need. This results in wear and tear, not to mention lengthy waits for hot water.

A control flow system attacks the efficiency problem by reducing the amount of water that must be heated. Most are designed to work on temperature differential strategies. They work by using two sensors. The first is located close the panels being used to heat the water or liquid substitute. The second is located on or close to the liquid return valve into the panel system. Put in practical terms, one sensor measures the temperature of the liquid set to leave the panel while the other measures the temperature of liquid coming into the panel.

Flow systems work by waiting for the liquid to rise to a temperature determined by you. Once the liquid meets the temperature, the system turns on the circulation pump and moves the liquid to the desired location. Once the return valve sensor notes the temperature of the returning water is within a particular range of the liquid in the panel system, the pump is shut off. This process allows for faster heating times, more efficiency and less wasted energy.

Solar solutions are coming to the front of the energy debate for many residential energy needs. Countries like Germany are making huge investments in solar platforms and technologies. Solar can be a cost-effective solution for you as well. Just keep in mind that flow systems are a must if you are pursuing solar water heating.

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Meditation Techniques That Anybody Can Use

Meditation (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Sometimes those of us “regular people” get intimidated by the idea of learning meditation techniques even if they will do us a lot of good.  For a lot of us, when we think of meditation techniques, we get an image of a white-haired guru sitting on top of a mountain, not of an ordinary run of the mill person like you and I.

But we know that meditation techniques can do even everyday people like us some good.  That is because people that you know who use meditation techniques tend to be calmer, more at ease, relaxed and able to handle stress better than those that don’t.  So it makes you think, maybe there is something to meditation techniques worth looking into.

The good news is that most of those meditation techniques that those “gurus” use are based on some very practical and easy things that we can do, without special equipment and even without a huge amount of special training to get the simple results that a lot of people work hard to achieve.  So what we all need are meditation techniques that anybody can use.

Meditation Technique #1 – It’s all in the breathing.

It may seem ridiculously easy but much of the fuss about meditation technique is all about breathing.  You may have already noticed that as you get more upset or excited or agitated, your breathing becomes shorter and you breathe faster.  When that happens, you get less oxygen to your blood, your heart beats faster and your mind, with less blood, gets upset more easily. 

So by slowing down your breathing, you can reverse the effect.  You take the outcome and make it the cause.  Instead of letting your breathing react to how you feel, you control your breathing to change how you feel.  It is as simple as taking a few moments and closing your eyes and concentrating on breathing ten or so deep breaths in and out. 

As you do so, think about those breaths and nothing else for a moment.  Think about the air going in and then going out again.  It is as though you are breathing on purpose.  The outcome of this meditation technique will be your heart will slow down, your blood will get more oxygen and before long, you are calmer and able to react to things much more serenely.  You have taken control of the situation.

Meditation Technique #2 – A moment of peace and quiet.

Life has a way of taking over and running us instead of us running it.  Work gets hectic, a family life full of joys and challenges and you have days where everything seems to go crazy all at once.  There is another simple meditation technique you can use to return control of the day to you.

The gurus who use the advanced meditation techniques know that they should have a place where they can retreat to enter into a more contemplative state of mind.  So too, you can start to look around your various environments and select a place where you can get a moment of peace and quiet to do your breathing and gather yourself to get control over the chaos that sometimes your day turns into.  While in that quiet place, don’t just reflect on how bad things are, slow your breathing, use your ability to reflect and calm yourself and slowly get back to that inner tranquility that will give you control.  One meditation technique that people use is to imagine a quiet lake inside their soul.  You want that lake to be still, the surface quiet, the air pure and cool, the environment serene and at rest.  Then when the world around you is going mad, your tranquil lake is never disturbed.

Meditation Technique #3 – Self Talk

You are what you think.  And how you talk to yourself when you are using your meditation techniques can bring you up and calm you if you know what to say.  Now don’t panic at the idea of talking to yourself.  Self-talk is a long established meditation technique that you too can use to get your composure in the midst of your busy world. 

Again, as we mentioned above, you have to let that self-talk be positive and reassuring.  Remember the good of your life and your feelings when you were in control.  There are other key meditation techniques that you can use that fall under the category of self-talk that can calm you and put you in a serene state of mind fairly quickly.  Remember a time when you had perfect control and try to become that person.  Have a common location that is always serene for you and go to that place in your mind for a moment and gather your thoughts there.  Reflect on the things in your life that give you power and self-worth.  Let those things talk to you.  Slowly this positive self-talk can do its magic and lift you back to a stable place and give you peace.

Now, this is not to say that formal meditation techniques are not of value.  They certainly are.  As you take advantage of these down to earth meditation techniques we have talked about here today, you will start to feel the benefits in how you sleep, how you react to stress and even in your health. 

If you enjoy those benefits, then you are on your way to a lifetime of meditation.  Then you can start to look into some more formalized meditation techniques that will take the simple steps and take you to the next level.  Who knows, maybe one of these days you will be that white-haired guru on the mountaintop.  I bet the view is great from up there.

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ACUPUNCTURE Points Map

Acupuncture chart from the Ming Dynasty:
The Pericardium Meridian of Hand-Jueyin
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Practitioners of the ancient Chinese art of acupuncture rely on the acupuncture points map to free trapped energy in the body and restore health.

You might have spotted this type of chart of the human body on the wall of your holistic doctor’s office or during a visit to a natural health store. It depicts numerous points on the body where the body’s energy, also known as qi, often accumulates. In fact, there are over 2,000 points that conduct energy throughout the body!

Because of their direct connection to the flow of energy in the body, the acupuncture pressure points depicted on the acupuncture points map help to regulate body function, mood, emotional and spiritual well-being. You might find it surprising that acupuncture has been used for over two millennia to help relieve headaches, skin conditions, digestive disorders, and asthma. And, that’s just the beginning. Acupuncture has been known to help with depression, phobias, addictions, low self-esteem, eating disorders, and other ailments caused by energy imbalances in the body.

The traditional acupuncture points chart shows fourteen main channels, also known as meridians, which exist in the body – one meridian for each of the twelve organs, one along the spine and another along the abdomen. Acupuncture pressure points are located along these meridians, and some points have more than one function. This means that an acupuncturist might use them to cure more than one type of illness.

For example, there is a commonly-used point on the acupuncture points chart, which is located on the back side of the hand between the thumb and first finger. Acupuncturists use it mainly to relieve pain and to treat constipation or other intestinal disorders. This point, however, is also used to treat illnesses which cause inflammation and fever. Because the large intestine meridian runs from the hand to the face, these symptoms often manifest in the throat and head.

Another point on the acupuncture points map is located at the base of the skull along the gallbladder meridian. This is a valuable point to know around cold and flu season because it helps treat these annoying illnesses. It also helps relieve headaches, neck pain, and fever. Additionally, it may also lower blood pressure and relax tension in the region around the eyes. There is a multitude of points that may hold the key to better health for you.

How does an acupuncturist use these points on an acupuncture points map? He or she utilizes small needles and places them at the specific point on the patient’s body to help relieve illnesses caused by disrupted energy flow. By manipulating the flow of qi at these points, the two forms of energy in the body, yin and yang, are brought into proper alignment. It may require several visits to your acupuncturist to bring your body’s energy into harmony.

Encouraging the proper flow of life energy at specific acupuncture pressure points will help bring your body into physical and emotional harmony, in addition to proper diet, exercise, and healthy lifestyle choices. Visit a licensed acupuncturist who has studied the acupuncture points map in detail to ensure a beneficial session.

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