Charles Brush's windmill of 1888, used for generating electricity. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
There is a lot of energy that we can harness if we only seek to research and develop the technologies needed to do so. We can get away from the fossil fuels and the old electrical grids by turning to alternatives to these energy sources.
One of these alternative energy resources is wind power. Wind turbines continue to be developed that are progressively more energy efficient and less costly. “Wind farms” have been springing up in many nations, and they have even become more strategically placed over time so that they are not jeopardizing birds as former wind turbines did.
Another alternative energy resource is the one that is most well known: solar energy. This involves the manufacturing of solar cells which gather and focus the energy given off directly by the sun and translate it into electricity or, in some cases, hot water. As with wind energy, solar energy creates absolutely zero pollution.
Ocean wave energy is seen by governments and investors as having enormous energy generating potential. A generator in France has been in operation for many years now and is considered to be a great success, and the Irish and Scots are running experimental facilities.
Hydroelectric power has been with us for a while and where it is set up, it is a powerful generator of electricity and cleaner than a grid. However, there are certain limitations to the availability of the right places to set up a large dam. Many run-of-the-river, or small and localized, hydroelectric generators have been set up in recent times due to this limitation.
Geothermal energy is extremely abundant since it lies directly beneath our feet, just a few miles below the earth's surface. This energy is produced by the heating of water through the actions of earth's fantastically hot molten core. The water turns to steam, which can be harnessed and used to drive turbine engines which in turn generate electricity. Great amounts of research and development should be put into geothermal energy tapping.
Waste gas energies, which are essentially methane, reverse the usual energy-pollution relationship by creating energy from waste that lies in the dumps and from some air pollutants. This gas is used in fuel cells and can be used in standard gasoline generators.
Ethanol is a gasoline substitute and is created from such things as wheat, sugarcane, grapes, strawberries, corn, and even wood chips and wood cellulose. There is controversy over this fuel with regards to its ever becoming truly economical or practical except in very localized areas, but technologies for its extraction and admixturing are continuously being refined.
Biodiesel energy is created out of the oils contained in plants. So far, the commercial stores of biodiesel have been created using soybean, rapeseed, and sunflower oils. At the time of this writing, biodiesel is typically produced by entrepreneurial-minded individuals or those who want to experiment with alternative energy, but commercial interest from companies is on the rise. It burns much cleaner than oil-based diesel.
Atomic energy is created in atomic energy plants using the process of nuclear fission. This energy is extremely efficient and can generate huge amounts of power. There is concern from some people about what to do with the relatively small amount of waste product atomic energy gives off since it is radioactive and takes hundreds of years to decay into harmlessness.
Aloe vera plants (Indonesian:Lidah Buaya), Bangka, Indonesia (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
A lot of families may have had an Aloe Vera plant in the kitchen. This succulent is easy to grow and quite hardy. If you get a minor cut or burn, cut or snap off a piece and rub it on your skin. Some people can be allergic to it so check first. The inner gel is the part of the Aloe Vera that is used to heal. You can apply it several times for best effect.
An herb garden in your kitchen is a fantastic way to get the great flavor of fresh herbs into your cooking. And what could be fresher than seconds from the plant to your food? Fresh dill, chives, basil, tarragon, mint, and many others are well liked by most people and easy to get hold of as seedlings or seeds. Use an oval container because this fits nicely on a windowsill. Be sure there is proper drainage and don't forget to water the herbs and feed them occasionally. Most herb plants can grow for a few months before getting too "leggy".
Many herbs can be dried and used for teas or stored in your pantry for use all year long (especially in a cold climate where they may not grow well in the Winter), and some herbs are well-known for their medicinal qualities. If you take any over the counter medications or even prescription ones, check with your doctor before combining that and any herbs that are not traditionally used in cooking.
Many herbs grown indoors may aid in digestion. Some can just be broken off but a few need preparation first. Some common herbs used to help are:
Anise. This herb helps with digestion and can ease colic in infants.
Coriander. This one can help with digestion and it's also a great cooking herb, especially when added to salsa.
Fennel Oil. It can be used for upset stomachs plus it may increase breast milk production in nursing mothers.
These are just a few of the uses for your indoor herb garden. Always check a few reliable sources of information before using something you've never ingested before.
By Jenny H Jordan Jenny has been writing articles online for over 2 years now. Article Source: EzineArticles
In a generation when physical fitness is given topmost attention, people are always on the lookout for the newest and most effective means for weight loss. Acupuncture, the method of inserting thin, filiform needles on certain points in an individual’s body, has been found to be one effectual method for losing weight.
Not many people may find the idea of being inserted by needles quite comforting in their quest for weight control. However, this ancient Chinese alternative treatment seeks to deliver a control mechanism, enabling the patient to manage hunger cravings more successfully in the long run.
The Skinny on Acupuncture Weight Loss
It has been found that weight gain is directly related to emotions. Other than physical hunger, people reach for a huge chocolate bar or a big platter of burger and fries because of the sense of comfort derived from food and eating. More often than not, excessive weight gain is an emotional issue, rather than a merely physical one. You may not realize it, but you tend to take in more food whenever you’re stressed, upset, or pressured.
In Acupuncture, there are specific spots on the body being targeted by the hair-like needles. These spots are linked to certain areas in the body and by stimulating these spots; the patient will achieve a greater sense of inner balance. As these points are inserted by the needles, certain hormones are released throughout the body. These substances work by helping you manage hunger and efficiently control the impulse to overeat.
How Acupuncture Induces Weight Loss
Most acupuncturists will target the spots behind the ear when it comes to promoting weight loss. When these points behind the ear are stimulated, endorphins are released in large doses. Endorphins are called the feel-good hormones, and these are also often referred to as natural pain and fever relievers. The release of endorphins is what makes you feel better after an increased level of physical activity, as in the case of a good workout.
These bodily compounds allow the patient to experience better relaxation, thus considerably alleviating stress. There is a greater possibility of enhanced weight loss when the patient has already achieved emotional wellness. Endorphins are also released whenever the body experiences low levels of bodily pain, thus their moniker as a natural pain reliever.
Patients of acupuncture typically experience very minimally or no pain at all, however, most of the points are located near nerve endings and muscle tissues. As the needles are embedded in the body, signals are sent to the brain thus promoting the release of endorphins from the pituitary gland.
There are also other points in the body that serve as gateways for better weight management. One of these placements promotes a decrease in an individual’s appetite, while another has the ability to reduce water retention in the body. The acupuncturist may choose a multi-targeted approach, depending on the requirements of the patient.
Consulting with a Professional Acupuncturist
There are a number of acupuncture practitioners in existence nowadays, offering a host of services. If you are considering this form treatment for your weight management, make sure that you settle for no less than a trained and professional acupuncturist. A poorly trained acupuncturist may not be able to pinpoint the specific meridian points and worse may cause unnecessary bodily pain and discomfort.
Moreover, your acupuncturist may require an herbal supplement for your treatment, to encourage a longer-term effect. Your sessions need not be maintained for an extended period; however, you may be required to visit your acupuncturist during the entire course of the sessions.
There are other means for losing weight successfully, and this does not include crash dieting and strenuous workouts. If carried out by trained professionals, acupuncture can be the answer for effective weight management. While it is far from being a cure-all, it may just be the right weight loss solution for you.
Quinn, an ~ 18-month-old boy with autism, obsessively stacking cans (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Most reputable scientists now believe that autism has existed throughout the history of humankind. Some have speculated that ancient legends about "changelings" are actually stories of children with autism. Celtic mythology is redolent with stories of elves and visitors from "the other side" who steal a human child and leave their own damaged child in its place. The child left behind is usually mute, remote and distant, staring into space and unresponsive to its adult caretakers. We must bear in mind that in times gone by, and in some cultures today, children who are unlike the average expected child are seen to be victims of evil or some sort.
In 1801 the French physician Itard took into his care a boy who had been found wandering naked in the forest. It was believed at the time that the boy had lived alone in the forest since early childhood. The boy could not speak and was unresponsive to human contact. He has come to be known as "Sauvage de l'Aveyron," or "wild boy of Aveyron". Itard's tireless efforts to help this boy mark the beginning of special education. Although autism was not a term used at the time there are those who speculate that the wild boy of Aveyron was a child with autism.
The real history of autism dates back only one hundred years to the time of the Swiss psychiatrist Eugen Bleuler. In 1911 Bleuler was writing about a group of people then identified as having schizophrenia. In his writing, he coined the term "autism" to describe their seeming near total absorption with themselves and distance from others.
Writing in the early 1920's, Carl Gustav Jung introduced the terminology of extrovert and introvert. Jung viewed these personality types as being present in all people to one degree or another. However, he noted that in extreme cases, cases that in the language of his day were called "neurotic", a person could become totally absorbed into himself or herself.
It was not until the late 1930's and early 1940's in America that the term "autism" joined the official psychiatric nomenclature. Psychiatrists Leo Kanner, who started working with a particular group of children in 1938, and Hans Asperger, both publishing findings and writing in 1943 and 1944, wrote about groups of children they had studied and called either "autistic" or children with "autistic psychopathy". Both authors believe these children displayed a constellation of symptoms that were unique and represented a syndrome not previously identified. As the children they studied seemed unable to engage in normal human relationships they borrowed Bleuler's term "autism" to identify the syndrome. The defining difference between the work of Kanner and Asperger and that of Bleuler is that for the former two the condition they describe is present at birth while for Bleuler the condition appears much later in life.
Another important difference in these early pioneers of autism is that Kanner group is quite self-contained and comprised of individuals all sharing the same "core" symptoms. Asperger's group is quite wide, ranging from the children like Kanner's to children with near-normal characteristics. The vestiges of these two differing descriptions, now bearing the names of their illustrious "discoverers" remains to this day. In the literature and in the lay terminology we still hear people described as having "Kanner's autism" or "Asperger's syndrome.
Around the time of Kanner and Asperger another famous, indeed in autism circles infamous, name appears. This is Bruno Bettelheim. In 1944 Bettelheim directed the Orthogenic School for Children in Chicago, Illinois. There he worked out his own theory of the cause of autism and started intervention programmes. Bettelheim believed that autism was a result of children being raised in severely unstimulating environments during their early years. He believed it was parents, particularly mothers, who were unresponsive to their children that caused autism. The unfortunate term "refrigerator mother" arose during this time.
Although Bettelheim's psychological theories were eventually discredited it was not for many years that science advanced to the point that mothers were not blamed for autism. Indeed, the author's own post-graduate training in the mid to late 70's was characterised by lectures about "refrigerator mothers" having caused autism. The legacy of Bettelheim's theory is undoubtedly one of terrible harm inflicted on so many mothers for so many years. [I cannot help but wonder if we really have progressed since I have so often heard mothers of children with autism being described as "over-anxious", "clinging", "over-involved" and "pushy or aggressive" by some educators, psychologists and physicians]
From the 1980's onward considerable research has been undertaken to uncover the "cause" of autism. So many theories have come forward: genetic, environmental, toxins, endocrine, metabolic, unusual reactions to certain foods or additives and the current favourite, immunizations. Despite all this theorising autism still remains a puzzle. Little scientifically valid evidence supports any particular theory and research continues into the cause of autism.
What do we know about autism?
It is now an accepted fact that autism is a neurodevelopment (sometimes called neurobiological) condition. This places the site of autism within the human brain itself, not in the form of physical brain abnormalities that appear on physical examination or X-ray, but rather in the chemical and electrical activity of the brain. It is known that autism is present at birth, is more common amongst boys than girls and is a life-long condition with no "cure". We know that autism can be treated effectively and there are a wide number of treatment options available. It is now known that education is particularly important in the treatment of autism and that early intervention is critically important. Children born with autism can improve along a number of pathways but they will always have autism no matter how seemingly like others they may become.
Having said what was said about autism being incurable and a life-long condition there are those who say it can be cured. Interesting forms of treatment being studied in New Orleans, Louisiana involve testing children with autism for low-level presence of lead in their system, then providing treatment to eliminate any traces of autism. This is said to have "cured" over 1,500 children of the condition (personal conversation with the lead physician). It has to be cautioned that such extreme and emphatic statements must be put to the rigorous test of scientific study and that the sorts of assessments being completed on these children in New Orleans are not in favour in Europe at the moment.
What is autism?
The neurodevelopment or neurobiological condition is known as autism is highly variable. No two people with autism are alike. Having said that, all people with autism share common characteristics. These characteristics exist along what is called the "Triad of Impairment".
The Triad of Impairment consists of significant deficits across three developmental areas:
1. Social impairment
2. Verbal and non-verbal communication impairment
3. Impairments of thinking and behaving
1. Impairment of Social Interaction
There are several sub-types of behaviours that characterise this group of people with autism. They can be quite aloof, behaving as if other people did not exist at all, making little or no eye contact and have faces that seem to lack any emotional display whatever. Less common is the passive group who will accept the advances of others, can be led to participate as a passive partner in an activity and who return the eye contact of others. Another subtype has been called the "active but odd group". These people pay no attention to others, have poor eye contact and may stare too long and often shake hands far too vigorously and strongly. The last subtype is the overly formal and stilted group. They tend to use language in a very formal way when it is not called for, are excessively polite and try to stick to the rules of social interaction but don't really understand them. They tend to have well-developed language skills that can mask their real social deficits.
2. Impairment of Communication
Significant deficits in communication are present, to one degree or another, in all people with autism. They may have problems is using speech (expressive language), ranging from having no speech at all (about 20% of cases) to have very well developed speech. They make repeat words spoken to them (echolalia) or repeat phrases they associate with something they want (e.g. "Do you want to play" instead of "I want to play"). They will also have deficits in understanding speech (receptive language). Confusing between sounds of words can be present (e.g. meat and meet). The difficulty with irony, sarcasm and humour is often found in those with well-developed expressive language. They may have problems understanding when an object has more than one meaning (e.g. soup bowl, toilet bowl).
In addition to the problem listed about in receptive language people with autism can often have significant difficulty with modulating their tone of voice and putting expression into what they say. They can sometimes sound robotic and speak with a droning monotone. Sometimes they can emphasise the intonation of certain words with unnecessary force. Sometimes they are too loud, sometimes too quiet (more frequent).
It is important to recognise that communication is more than speech. Non-verbal communication is important for human social interaction to proceed smoothly. People with autism have deficits in understand non-verbal communication. They may not be able to interpret facial expression or to use it themselves. They may have odd and unusual body posture and gestures. They may not understand the body posture and gestures of others.
3. Impairment of Thinking and Behaving
People with autism have pronounced difficulty with play or imagining. The lack of the ability to play has a profound effect on the ability to understand the emotions of others, therefore, sharing joy or sorrow with another can be impossible. Repetitive and stereotyped movements or activities are often present in autism. They may want to taste, touch or smell things. They may have a need to twirl things before their eyes. Sometimes they may jump up and down and make loud noises. In more severe cases they may bang their heads against walls or floor or pull and scratch at their skin. People with autism have a strong need for consistency and sameness. They become unsettled when routine changes. All these behaviours and characteristics point to a pronounced inflexibility in thinking and behaving.
Although every person with an autistic spectrum disorder has deficits in all three parts of the triad each varies significantly in the nature of their deficits. This makes is imperative for people working with children with autism to individualise their interventions. Autism is a highly variable condition with no two children alike and with some children, seemingly near normal but having subtle deficits.
Problems that may accompany autism
In addition to deficits across the triad, there are a number of problems often associated with autism, though it is not known yet if they are caused by autism. Among the most common are: epileptic seizures (particularly in adolescence), sensory integration deficits (difficulty integrating the reception of sensations such as sound, sight, taste, hearing or movement), general learning disabilities, Fragile X syndrome (about 2-5% of people with an ASD), tuberous sclerosis (benign tumours in the brain or other organs, occurs in about 2-4% of people with an ASD), ADHD, Tourette's syndrome and dyslexia. Proper treatment of autism must include appropriate treatment of any associated condition.
Education of children with autism
Many children with autism can be educated in the mainstream with appropriate supports. These supports typically include speech and language therapy, occupational therapy, psychological services and special education. Though they perceive the world differently from those around them they benefit from placement in the mainstream classroom and the other children benefit from having them in their class.
People with autism vary to an enormous degree as has been said above. As they progress through the educational system the types of supports they require and the intensity of these supports can vary as well. It is important to recognise that children with autism can be educated and reach their optimum level of potential. The task may be difficult and progress may be slow but progress will be made when supports are present and all work cooperatively together.
When autism is severe and accompanied by extremely challenging behaviour such as aggression, self-harm, extreme disorganisation and complete lack of language the education being provided often must take place in a specialist setting. The goal in these settings is to attempt to re-integrate the child back into the mainstream. For children whose autism is of such a severe nature, psychiatric services may be required as an adjunct to the educational programme.
People with autism can be educated and a great many of them can enter the workforce, sometimes independently and with great success, at other times requiring the support of a job coach and in some cases may require sheltered work settings. As well as entering the workforce many people with autism can live independent lives, some will require structured and supported accommodation and some will require accommodation is specialist settings.
Autism and the brain
Considerable research is underway to investigate the exact nature of brain functioning in a person with autism. A lot is being learned but there is more to be learned in the future. What is known now is that there seem to be differences in the brain functioning of people with autism? With advances in neuroimaging, it is now possible to look at the brain with performing an autopsy. This makes it possible to study how the brain works while it is working. These imaging methods (CT scans, MRI scans PET scans and others) have shown that there seem to be a number of brain structures associated with autism and autistic spectrum disorders. These include the cerebellum, cerebral cortex, limbic system, corpus callosum, basal ganglia, and brain stem. These structures are responsible for cognition, movement, emotional regulation and coordination as well as a sensory reception. Other studies are looking into the role of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin and epinephrine. There seems to be a genetic factor involved in some of these brain dysfunctions and some research indicates that unusual brain growth may take place in the first three months of life, is a genetic factor and that results in autism appearing in early childhood.
What is being learned turns other theories, such as Bettelheim's, upside down. Autism is no one's fault. It is a neurodevelopment disorder affecting more boys than girls (4:1), occurring in about 3-6% of the population. This makes autism less common than general learning disabilities but common than cerebral palsy, hearing impairment and visual impairment. Translating these statistics into something more comprehensible it can be said that about 1 in 500 to 1 in 150 people will be born with autism. The implications for these figures are alarming because it means that virtually every school in the country has a child on the spectrum and that the vast majority of these children have not been diagnosed and are perceived in a pejorative light by their teachers, sometimes seemingly odd or obstreperous and sometimes lazy or unable to learn.
Autism and the family
Autism is a family condition. When there is one child in the family with autism there is a condition present that affects every single-family member including those who do not live in the same home. On receiving a diagnosis of autism parents sometimes feel a certain relief, now knowing that it isn't their fault the child is different. Others react with anger, grief, shame, denial or rage. Sometimes they become angry with the diagnostician and refuse to believe the findings. Although diagnosis at an early age is a good predictor of a successful outcome if appropriate treatment is provided it is always accompanied by considerable trauma to family life. The impact of the diagnosis is always greatest on the mother.
The impact of living with a person on the spectrum has been shown to be harder on the mother than the father. The lessened paternal impact has a lot to do with factors associated with the gender role of the man in the traditional family: out of the home and working much of the time. Mothers are left in the major caretaker role and face the day-to-day stress of rearing a child with autism. For fathers, the major impact of autism in the family is associated with the stress it puts on the mother. Figures in the US seem to indicate that the divorce rate in families of children with autism is not higher than in other families. This is something that has not been studied extensively in other countries however one study conducted in the UK indicates that the lone parent rate in families with autism is 17%, compared with 10% in other families.
Studies have shown that the emotional impact of autism on the mother can be quite severe. Many mothers experience enough emotional distress to require medication or psychotherapy. One study showed that 50% of mothers of children with autism screed positively for significant psychological distress and that this was associated with low levels of family support and bringing up a child with challenging behaviour. Another study raised this figure to 66%. The emotional stress on the mother appears to have a significant effect on the work status. Many cannot work outside the home. For those that manage to work outside the home, there is an increased incidence of tardiness, missed days and reduction to part-time status. Mothers are also the person most likely to be held responsible for their child's behaviour by others outside the family including neighbours and teachers. Mothers tend to cope differently with these stresses than fathers. Fathers tend to hide their feelings and suppress them, the result often being increased episodes of anger outburst. Mothers tend to cope by talking about their difficulties with friends, particularly other mothers of children with autism. They also cope by becoming avid information seekers, often knowing more about autism then the educators of their children.
The impact of autism on the siblings is not to be underestimated. They know from an early age that their brother or sister is "different". They will have a great many questions but most often don't ask them for fear of hurting the parent's feelings. The will have a deep love of the sibling with autism but this love is sometimes associated with anger and resentment due to the increased time the parents spend on the sibling with autism. They will often worry about their own future and obsess about whether or not they will "get" autism or will they pass it on to their own children one day.
The impact is not always negative and several studies have shown that being a sibling of a child with autism is associated with greater self-confidence and social competence. Care-taking skills often improve as well. Levels of tolerance to difference can be higher than in the siblings of children who do not have autism. So, what do we know about the impact of autism on the family? It is a mixed bag of results. At times it can be devastating, at other times it can lead to higher levels of coping skills and a sense of self-mastery. A lot depends on the family itself and the community in which it is embedded. A lot more depends on the supports and treatments available, especially the educational interventions and supports that can be provided. One this is certain: autism is a family condition affecting everyone.
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.”
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
