Using ALOE VERA in Dental Care

Aloe vera has been widely acknowledged for its ability to heal burns, cuts, and infections. More recently, it has gained popularity for its soothing properties, and the plant is now being recognized for its ability to alleviate many common dental ailments. In fact, when Aloe is present in tooth gel, it cleanses the teeth and gums while soothing the entire mouth.

Aloe can provide many benefits for people looking to improve their oral health. Toothpaste containing aloe vera can eliminate high levels of pathogenic oral microflora. It is also believed to be as effective in combating cavities as traditional toothpaste, as both regulate high levels of bacteria in the mouth. A study in May-June 2009 issue of General Dentistry, the Academy of General Dentistry's (AGD) journal, concluded that tooth gel containing aloe was just as good or better than commercial brands at controlling cavity-causing bacteria in the mouth.

Aloe gel does not contain abrasive elements which are found in regular toothpaste, making it an excellent alternative for people with sensitive teeth and gums. Plus, aloe can prevent dryness in the mouth. The anti-inflammatory anthraquinones present in aloe latex are natural pain relievers.

Research has shown that aloe vera plant contains enzymes which help the regeneration of cells. These healing properties can help oral care, especially sores, burns, and small cuts on the inside of the mouth. Its anti-fungal properties help to reduce plaque accumulation. Gingivitis, the condition characterized by bleeding and inflammation of gums, can be cured with aloe vera. It can also bring relief to individuals with dentures who are suffering from soreness resulting from ill-fitting dentures. For people who have dental implants, aloe can help fight inflammation caused due to bacterial contamination.

Using aloe vera in dental care is growing in popularity because it is all-natural, with none of the side effects of abrasive chemical agents. You can find extensive information on aloe gel toothpaste online, even ways to make your own Aloe vera mouthwash! Aloe vera gel toothpaste is available in a variety of flavors today. However, you should choose your aloe vera tooth gel in the appropriate form. Ensure that you buy aloe gel toothpaste that is certified by the American Dental Association (ADA) and are designed to prevent tooth decay and gum disease.

By Stefano Grossi To learn more about green dentistry that uses healthy, effective, and environmentally-safe materials, please visit Mint32.com. Mint32 Dentistry, a premier Atlanta dentist practice, provides the latest general and cosmetic dentistry procedures and is committed to the comfort and care of each patient. Stefano Grossi Mint 32 Dentistry (770) 410-0100 Article Source: EzineArticles

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ACUPUNCTURE for Weight Loss

Old Chinese medical chart on acupuncture meridians (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

It's hard to meet anyone that is not at least a little bit concerned about their weight.  The society that we live in, as well as the type of lifestyle that many of us keep, has led to an epidemic of weight gain that all of us are suffering from.  Even those of us who are able to maintain a fairly lean lifestyle still struggle because of the difficulty of eating a healthy diet and maintaining our weight.  There are some things that can be done, however, in order to help curb your appetite and to lose the extra pounds.  Acupuncture is one of these.

Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical treatment that has been done for thousands of years.  Even though it spread throughout many areas of Asia, it really has only become popular in the Western world in the past several decades.  Since that time, many tests have revealed that there is a lot of truth in what acupuncture is able to do for us as individuals.  In recent years, it has also been discovered that a natural balance in the body is one way for you to be able to combat weight gain and problems with overeating.  Acupuncture is a natural way to maintain balance in the body so they work hand-in-hand.

According to traditional Chinese medicine, we all have an energy about us that is typically known as Chi.  This energy has two basic parts that are opposite to each other but when they work in balance they give us the life force that we need.  By manipulating certain parts of our body with acupuncture needles we are able to maintain the flow of energy and to find that balance that our body needs.  This can do everything for us from removing pain and depression to helping us to maintain a healthy weight.

So, if you have been struggling with weight gain or have a difficulty with overeating, acupuncture can help you in several different ways.  Not only can it bring you back into a balanced state where your body will work better as a unit, it can also help by suppressing our appetite and making it easier for us to maintain a healthy weight.  Although it will still take willpower on our part to a certain extent, by using acupuncture to maintain a healthy weight, you will be giving your self some help along the way.

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Benefits Of SALAMBA SIRASANA

Photo   by Shar Ka 

Salamba Sirasana is known as the king of asanas. As in any story the king and queen play a different role, in the same manner, the asanas also play a different role. The Queen of poses, the shoulder stand helps in the development of the right brain which comprises of stability and patience. Whereas, the left brain triggers the brain by pushing through the walls of obscurity towards a clear vision. 

You cannot master this asana in the first attempt. You have to learn it slowly and steadily without straining your neck and back. The presence of a yoga instructor would be the best thing to start off this asana. After many attempts and by the use of props like the wall you can be a maestro of this asana. 

As the blood flows to the brain it improves the circulation of blood and gives a calming effect to your body and helps in relieving stress. In comparison with all the inverted poses, this pose also helps in soothing your tense nervous system. The pressure applied to your shoulders and head make them stronger. Your brain receives a fresh supply of blood making it more appropriate for better health. Circulation of blood makes you prone to fewer diseases. It helps in removing fatigue from your body to relax you. 

The problems and ailments you face with your chests like bronchitis, asthma, and breathlessness can get a sense of relief by this asana. Your digestion improves by this asana and stimulation is provided to the pituitary and pineal glands. The headstand helps in strengthening your arms, legs, and spine as the entire pressure is put on them. The abdominal organs are toned by this asana which also strengthens your lungs. This asana is very therapeutic if you are suffering from conditions like asthma, infertility, insomnia, and sinus.

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The WHEEL OF THE YEAR

Wheel of the Year with Fire Festivals and Quarter Festivals, Neopagan holidays: Yule, Imbolc, Ostara, Beltane, Litha, Lughnasadh, Mabon, Samhain (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The Wheel of the Year is an interpretation of the Earth's seasons created by Neopagans and Wiccans. The wheel itself is formed from eight festivals more or less equally spaced throughout the year. The origins of the eight festivals can be traced back to pre-Christian Germanic and Celtic feasts and the wheel combines both cultures. The eight festivals are not only celebrated by Neopagans and Witches as the most commonly known have been adopted by various religions throughout the world.

The eight festivals of the wheel are known as Sabbats, which is a term of Hebrew origin, and there are four greater and four lesser Sabbats. The greater Sabbats are also known as cross-quarter days or Fire festivals and are of greater importance. The lesser Sabbats are also called quarter days and fall on the solstices and equinoxes. The combining of the Sabbats into the Wheel of the Year is a modern concept as there is not thought to be any such wheel before Wicca Witchcraft created it in the 1950's.

Early forms of Wicca only observed the four cross-quarter festivals and it was not until 1958 that the solstices and equinoxes were added by the Bricket Wood Coven, whose High priest was Gerald Gardner, the founder of Wicca Witchcraft. They were added to allow for more times of celebration, which brought Wicca more in line with Neo-Druidism, founded by Ross Nicols, a friend of Gerald Gardner.

The festivals on the Wheel of the Year are closely linked to the seasons and lunar cycles, which explains the common celebrations across religious groups, as the seasons play an important part in most systems of belief, be they bathed in ancient history or more recent. The eight festivals have set

days in the modern world but older forms of Paganism and religion follow the more exact dates which change annually depending on the lunar cycle. This cycle can alter the date by a few days which allows some Pagans to conveniently celebrate each on a weekend rather than a working day during the week.

The festivals of the Wheel of the Year are not copied from ancient rituals by Wiccans but they do draw inspiration from them. Common charms or items are still used in modern Paganism as they have been for thousands of years. Samhain, more commonly known to most of us as Halloween and celebrated on October 31st, is the start of the Neopagan year and is, therefore, also the start of the Wheel of the Year.

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TATTOO Stenciling

Tattooing in process. Artist: Damien Bart of Bruce Bart Tattooing. Model: Cary Bass. Photographer: Michael Deschenes. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

In order to make sure your tattoo is transferred onto your body correctly, a stencil is made from the design you want. Most tattoo artists are very good about having you look it over for details. They want to make sure you are going to be pleased with their finished work and this is where that starts. If you aren’t sure where you want the tattoo to be they can place that stencil on your body with tape to various locations. You can then look in a mirror and decide where you want it to be.

If you want one of the tattoos that a gallery has in a book they can easily make that into a tattoo stencil for you. If you want something customized then they will need more time to get the stencil made. This is why they will likely charge you more money for a customized tattoo than one that they have an image for already. Some of the tattoo parlors have what looks like a copy machine. They insert the drawing and it makes a stencil for them.

Once you have agreed to the look of the tattoo stencil it is time for the work to begin. To transfer the image to your body the stencil is either moistened or clear deodorant is placed on the body. The tattoo stencil is rubbed into place like you would with a temporary tattoo. It is held in place for a few minutes to allow for the entire image to successfully transfer onto your body.

With the process of tattoo stenciling, you don’t have to worry about your image not looking professional. Since a tattoo is permanent on your body you want to make sure it looks every bit as lovely as it possibly can. You don’t want to regret getting it later on. Too many people don’t speak up though when they are shown the tattoo stencil. They don’t want to hurt the feelings of the artist. Keep in mind that they are professionals and they want to do a good job for you. Since you are paying for the tattoo it needs to be 100% exactly what you want it to look like.

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An Untapped Source Of Eternal Energy: What Is SOLAR ENERGY?

Flipped version of MIT Solar One House (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The most exact definition of Solar Energy is plain – “the energy from the sun”. It is a term used to classify the electromagnetic radiation emitted by the sun and intercepted by the Earth. It is the world’s most permanent and reliable source of energy and the most copious.

The uses of solar energy on earth include solar heating for buildings, solar heat for manufacturing or industry and electricity production. So what is solar energy? How does it affect us?

Solar energy is responsible for weather systems and ocean currents. It provides light, heat, and energy to all living things on Earth. It has many uses. It supplies electricity; it can be used to power cars.

Solar energy is also used as a power for satellites in space and in space shuttles. It could also power boats, generators during emergencies, toys, and even security systems.

The amount of solar energy that the earth receives is about 770 trillion kilowatts (kW), an amount 5,000 times bigger than the sum of all other energy, may it be terrestrial nuclear energy, geothermal energy or gravitational energy.

There are two types of solar energy. These are:

1. Thermal Energy

2. Electric Energy

What is the difference between the two types energy?

Thermal energy is kinetic energy. It is everywhere. It makes the earth hot and even heats up our homes. It helps us to dry our clothes. It is used as well to heat up water for household use or even pools. That is why thermal energy is called the heat energy because it is stored in the centre of the earth as well.

Electric energy is widely known to us as the electricity. It is an essential part of nature and it is one of our most widely used forms of energy. This uses sunlight to power ordinary electrical equipment, such as household appliances, computers, and lighting.

Most applications of solar energy depend on systems including collectors, storage and controls. Storage is needed for a reason that solar energy is only available at daylight hours, but the demand for energy is needed both day and night. Controls are used to guarantee that the storage system works safely and efficiently.

The accessibility of solar energy is determined by three factors:

• The location is usually measured by latitude, longitude and altitude.

• The time.

• The weather.

Aside from knowing that solar energy is a free energy still, you have to realize that it also has advantages and disadvantages.

The advantages are:

• Solar energy is almost limitless; it will be available for as long as there are still humans in the earth.

• It is abundant. You will not worry about running out of it.

• It could provide more power than all known fossil fuel reserves.

• Solar energy is available during the day when electricity usage is really important.

• It is the most inexhaustible, renewable source of energy known to man.

• Solar energy can be absorbed, reflected, transmitted, and insulated.

• It can be collected and stored in batteries.

The disadvantages are:

• It is not suitable for cloudy areas.

• It is not available at night time.

• And it may require large land areas.

As a reminder, solar energy levels are lesser the farther north of the site. Considering geography, the season is an important determinant of solar energy levels because the Sun’s position and the weather vary greatly from summer to winter.

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CELTIC Otherworld and the Legend of KING ARTHUR

The Round Table experience a vision of the Holy Grail. From a 15th century French manuscript. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

A general description of the Celtic Otherworld

Many of the Celtic myths and stories are related to the otherworld. These are 'magical' worlds that exist in different dimensions inhabited by numerous 'other beings'. The dimensions include the worlds of faeries and dragons, the land of the dead and many other entities such as demons and gods.

The otherworld was not some distant world that was considered inaccessible but was believed by the ancient Celts to be a dimension that was parallel to that of earth's and could be entered into at any time or place. Those that entered these worlds are believed to be exposed to a wealth of knowledge - especially so to those who are seekers of truth, poets, and philosophers.

Portals existed in specific places where entry could be made but was also protected by powerful otherworld magic to prevent unauthorized entry. These words were also known to exist on subterranean levels and could be entered through portals in caves, hills or mountains.

The extent of the otherworld is too vast for the mortal mind to comprehend. It was generally accepted that the invisible inhabitants live in many magical kingdoms and regions and only privileged mortals were allowed to enter these realms. It is also well known that time has no effect on the people of the underworld as they remain young and do not age.

King Arthur - a beautiful tale, a mortal strongly connected to the otherworld

One of the most beloved tales of the ancient Celts is that of the magnificent King Arthur. Arthur was the son of the High King Ambrosius Aurelius and was given to Merlin the Druid soon after he was born. He was raised and trained by the magician and educated about the otherworld. As a young man Arthur successfully removed a magical sword that was lodged in a stone and became king. This sword, which was called Excalibur, was originally the possession of "The Lady of the Lake" - which was otherworldly.

Lady of the Lake Legend

The domain of this lady was known as the Isle of Avalon. Famous knights like Lancelot and Bors were raised in the Lady's underwater palace. Lancelot became known as Lancelot du Lac (of the lake). The Lady of the Lake, Niniane, eventually caused the death of Merlin the wizard by sealing him in a rock. Merlin has foreseen this happening but was so in love with the lady that he ignored his vision. Merlin taught Niniane many lessons in sorcery and in return wanted her to return his love. This ended in tragedy as he paid with his life.

King Arthur became the most famous and just ruler of Camelot and with Excalibur and his faithful Knights of the Round Table, he won many battles. His downfall came when his favorite warrior and most trusted companion, Lancelot du Lac, had an illicit affair with his wife Guinevere. In the Lancelot story, he left Camelot and went on the holy grail quest. This he undertook in an attempt to cleanse himself of the sins of adultery.

The Holy Grail is the cup that was used by Jesus in the last supper. It was also used to catch His blood while hanging wounded on the cross. According to legend, Sir Lancelot du Lac was one of the first Knights of the Round Table to become a Christian. He never obtained the Holy Grail but his son, Sir Galahad had much better success.

Known places of the location of the Otherworld

The island of Ireland has many places where the Otherworld can be reached. The island was said to be inhabited by a group that called themselves "People of the Sidh". They were also known as "Fairy Fort". This fort was a subterranean area that was hidden from the outside world by powerful magic. The province of Munster is said to be the location where the otherworld can be entered.

By Tim Lazaro - Article Source: EzineArticles

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Who is a REIKI MASTER?

The Reiki Master Attunement symbol Daikomyo also spelled Dai Ko Myo and abbreviated DKM.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The term Reiki has its Japanese roots. Literally, Rei signifies God's Wisdom or Higher Power whereas Ki denotes Life Force Energy. The Japanese Makao Usui is said to have rediscovered this Tibetan kind of healing. After his death, his disciples continued its practice until today that the discipline has already been passed on to the Masters from varying generations and cultures. In the course of this healing practice, a Reiki Master plays an important role. This article focuses on the introduction of who a Reiki Master is and how he fulfills his role of molding the learners.

An Introduction of the Master

The Master is the person who has devoted his time and energy to learning the art of healing that is known as Reiki. He studied and earned the degrees relevant to enhancing his skills in self-healing, healing others, and teaching the Reiki students. Prior to being qualified as a teacher, he has to prove himself proficient in executing all techniques in the lower degrees or levels both with mastery and efficiency and then he must move on to studying the Master Level or Master Degree.

Looking into the entirety of the Master, you will see a person who performs the healing art with due proficiency. He is the kind of an individual who is able to feel the calling along with the willingness to assume the responsibility of being a mentor, an initiator, and above all, a teacher. He is the certified person who can teach the methodologies and then attune other students into this kind of healing art.

The Master's Skills Enumerated

As the Master of Reiki teaching, he is endowed with numerous skills that has something to do with the spiritual healing. Included herein are his communication skills, the transforming, and handling of different types of emotional responses, carrying on the therapeutic figures, specializing in the teaching skills, and overcoming any resistance to perform the healing motivation... Since Reiki is comprised of various levels, the Master should be knowledgeable enough in granting his students an in-depth knowledge in every level that he handles. It is furthermore required that he is capable of teaching all the encompassing levels or degrees. 

Using the Energy

The master should, therefore, have the rightful knowledge on the usage of the life energy. As per the Reiki theory is concerned, the energy flows towards the target. Thus, it is exhibited to where the attention of the healer is directed. The symbols play a vital role in this sense especially in the production of the energy. There are different symbols involved and they all generate the respective energy. The produced energies are later on utilized for several objectives like stress relief and stress release, healing, and in curing a myriad of problems.

The Learning Course of the Masters

There are numerous courses that help mold a Master in Reiki. Reiki itself revolves within the straightforward philosophy of self-healing prior to healing other people. A Master's first challenge is that of healing himself because it is the only way on how he will be able to heal and help other people. During the training, the student who aims to become a Master is aided in resolving his personal past issues so he can better hold the rein of his own emotions. The mind training likewise helps a lot in provoking the manifestations of his own wants.

At any rate, the Reiki Master has a spiritual power that should never be underestimated. With all the positive energies in him, he is sure to influence the outpour of positive results. 

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The GEMSTONE of Accomplishment - CITRINE

Citrine (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Citrine, November's birthstone, is often referred to as "the gemstone of success," and sadly suffers from a case of mistaken identity that keeps gemstone fans from appreciating its magnificence.  Natural Citrine's color can range from a light lemon yellow to a vivid golden brown.    When cut into a gemstone, Citrine is almost impossible to differentiate visually from the more precious Yellow Topaz. Given this truth, some corrupt gem dealers and jewelry manufacturers substitute the cheaper Citrine for Yellow Topaz.  Unfortunately, this is typically discovered only when the gemstone is resold.

Amethyst or Smoky Quartz crystals are heat treated to activate ferric impurities, producing commercial quality Citrine and giving Citrine its golden-yellow color. Citrines produced in this way tend to contain more of a reddish or orange cast than natural Citrines, which are typically pale yellow.   The largest producer of gem-grade Citrine is Brazil.   Citrine is one of three traditional birthstones for the month of November.

Citrine has attained a standing throughout the ages as the "gemstone of accomplishment" that encourages abundance and wealth. It's also referred to as the "merchant's gemstone" because shopkeepers and merchants long ago use to place Citrine in their cash drawers to bring in money. However, Citrine allegedly also brings about success in unpredicted ways.  In addition to manifesting abundance, Citrine also promotes bigheartedness, leading those who benefit from its powers to share their prosperity with others.

Citrine also is thought to improve intellectual clarity, confidence. and willpower.  For people that experience depression or low self-esteem, New Age healers customarily advocate Citrine crystals. Citrine is thought to deflect and dissipate all kinds of harmful energies, generating strength in thought and emotion. Citrine is also understood to foster bliss and good cheer and reduce self-destructive tendencies and self-doubt.

Citrine crystals are also generally prescribed by healers to help in digestion and also enhance the immune and endocrine systems. It's thought to play a role in eliminating toxins from the body and in overcoming various addictions.  Citrine, whether chosen for its beauty or so-called physical and supernatural benefits, Citrine brings a sparkle of good fortune to its wearers.

John S. Brana's collections of distinctive Citrine Gemstone Jewelry include beautiful, one-of-a-kind pieces designed to set the wearer apart from the crowd. Whether classic or contemporary, each piece is unique, meticulously handcrafted, and made from top-quality gemstones.  Article Directory: Article Dashboard

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A Look at the DANDRUFF Cause and Treatment in Detail

Scanning Electron Microscope picture of freshly prepared human dandruff sample. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

A flaky scalp is prone to dandruff. Dandruff results from the immoderate shedding of dead cells from the surface skin of the scalp in form of white flakes. Flaky scalp in children is very common. Dandruff can be a symptom of such scalp problems as psoriasis, seborrhoeic and lice. Normal dandruff can be treated with an anti-dandruff shampoo. The best dandruff shampoo is rich in antifungal properties.

Various causes of flaky scalp

Flaking of the dead cells from the scalp is a natural and normal phenomenon. Dandruff results when irritation of the scalp or some skin allergy causes excessive flaking. Dandruff is also caused by excessive perspiration and fungal infection of the scalp. The formation of yeast on the scalp is also a dandruff cause.

Another cause for dandruff and dry scalp is cold weather. The scalp surface becomes dry in cold weather. It then easily flakes off and sheds its dead skin cells that in turn, result in dandruff. Allergic reaction to some food and nutritional deficiency in the diet can be major reasons for dandruff. Deficiency of omega 3 acids and B-complex vitamins can cause the dead skin cells of the scalp to flake off excessively. Excessive use of chemically rich hair cosmetics like gels, sprays, dyes and coloring chemicals causes flaking of the dead skin cells from the scalp by leading to roughness and dryness of the scalp.

How to Cure Dandruff

To remove different kinds of dandruff, it is very important to know how to treat dry flaky scalp.

• External Treatment – It includes the use of an anti-dandruff shampoo. Some anti-dandruff shampoos are herbal in nature with antifungal and antibacterial properties. Massage of the scalp with some specific natural oil is one of the dandruff home remedies.

• Nutritional Treatment – A diet that contains nutritionally rich food provides nutritional treatment for dandruff. An intake of liquids like juice, water in plenty keeps the skin of the scalp away from dryness. A diet is balanced when it includes fruits and salads. Feeding on a balanced diet is a natural cure for dandruff. Natural treatment also includes taking a good night sleep for seven to eight hours.

• Relaxation Treatment– It includes yoga and meditation. Practicing yoga and meditation on regular basis is relaxing and refreshing for the body and the mind. It keeps flaking of the scalp in check by reducing stress and stress-related effects on the skin.

• Allopathic Treatment – Allopathic treatment is required for severe dandruff. Certain drugs and oral medicines that a certified physician prescribes can help you combat dandruff

• Natural Treatment – The “Soothing Scalp Remedy” liquid is enriched with the natural extracts of lavender, rosemary, jojoba oil, neem oil and tea tree oil. This concoction is an ideal treatment for dandruff.

The Natural Remedies for Dandruff

Make a mixture of some curd and lemon juice. It is a homemade dandruff cure. Massage the scalp with it properly. Use a mild shampoo to wash it after keeping it for half an hour.

Add some dust of poppy seeds to milk. Apply the solution all over the scalp and then wash it after some time using shikakai with water.

Prepare a liquid solution by boiling tea leaves in water. Add some lemon juice to the liquid and then let it cool. Massage the scalp with it one hour before you take bath.

A paste that is made of fenugreek flour soaked in water is one of the natural remedies for dandruff. Put the paste to the scalp and wash it out with lukewarm water after half an hour.

Make a mix of the white portion of one egg and some lemon juice. Apply it on the scalp. Then wash it off using some vinegar in water after an hour.

Slice a lemon into two halves. Take one half and rub it on the scalp before you take bath. Use this remedy occasionally.

You can use salt for the massage of the scalp before shampooing the hair. This can help you get rid of dandruff.

Take some nettle leaves in a bowl and then pour some hot water into the bowl. Mix a spoon full of cider vinegar with the water. Massage the scalp with it two times a day. This homemade dandruff cure is beneficial for red dandruff.

Prepare a mix of lemon juice, cider vinegar, and witch hazel. Massage it on the scalp and apply to the hair. Use a mild shampoo to wash it off after half an hour.

Take some olive oil in a jar and soak rosemary leaves in the oil. Cover the jar and keep it in the sun for two days. Then, take the leaves out of the oil. Use the oil for scalp massage once a week.

Mix olive oil and honey in the ration of 1:3. Apply the mixture on the scalp and use a hot towel to wrap over it. It is one of the good dandruff home remedies.

Take some warm coconut oil and lemon juice in a bowl. Note that they must not be mixed uniformly. Massage it on the scalp before you go to bed at night and wash it off with shampoo in the morning. You can also use the juice extract of onions as a homemade dandruff cure.

Dandruff is a common condition of the dry and flaky scalp. It usually occurs in dry and cold weather. It is not a serious cause for concern about the scalp, even if dandruff becomes severe. This problem of the scalp is not remediless. You can choose from numerous natural remedies for dandruff. Treating dandruff becomes easier with a homemade dandruff cure.

Mia Wadsworth owner of www.dryitchyscalpremedies.com helps people to understand and eliminate Dandruff fast, naturally restoring their hair to shiny healthy locks. Article Directory: Article Dashboard

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Six Types Of MEDITATION

Meditation by William Bouguereau (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

There are so many different types of meditation. How many? Who knows, but enough so that you can find the one that's right for you. To get your search started, here are six types of meditation you can try.

1. Breath watching.
Can meditating be as simple as paying attention to your breath for a few minutes? You bet. Relax in whatever position works best for you, close your eyes and start to pay attention to your breathing. Breathing through your nose gets your diaphragm involved and gets oxygen all the way to the bottom of your lungs. As your mind wanders, just re-focus your attention on the air going in and out of your nose. Just do this for several minutes, or longer as you get used to it.

2. An empty mind meditation.
Meditating can create a kind of "awareness without an object," an emptying of all thoughts from your mind. The techniques for doing this involve sitting still, often in a "full lotus" or cross-legged position, and letting the mind go silent on its own. It can be difficult, particularly since any effort seems to just cause more business in the mind.

3. Walking meditations.
This one gets the body involved. It can be outside or simply as a back and forth pacing in a room. Pay attention to the movement of your legs and breathing and body as you walk and to the feeling of your feet contacting the ground. When your mind wanders, just keep bringing it back to the process of walking and breathing. Meditating outside in this way can be difficult because of the distractions. If you do it outside, find a quiet place with level ground.

4. Mindfulness meditation.
A practice Buddhists call vipassana or insight meditation, mindfulness is the art of becoming deeply aware of what is here right now. You focus on what's happening in and around you at this very moment and become aware of all the thoughts and feelings that are taking your energy from moment to moment. You can start by watching your breath, and then move your attention to the thoughts going through your mind, the feelings in your body, and even the sounds and sights around you. The key is to watch without judging or analyzing.

5. Simple mantra meditation.
Many people find it easier to keep their mind from wandering if they concentrate on something specific. A mantra can help. This is a word or phrase you repeat as you sit in meditation, and is chosen for you by an experienced master in some traditions. If you are working on this alone, you can use any word or phrase that works for you and can choose to either repeat it aloud or in your head as you meditate. 

6. Meditating on a concept.
Some meditative practices involve contemplation of an idea or scenario. An example is the "meditation on impermanence," in which you focus on the impermanent nature of all things, starting with your thoughts and feelings as they come and go. In the Buddhist "meditation on the corpse," you think about a body in the ground, as it slowly rots away and is fed on by worms. The technique is used to guide you to an understanding that your rationalizing mind might not bring you to.

There are many other meditations you can try, such as the "meditation on loving-kindness" or "object" meditation, and even meditating using brainwave entrainment products. Each type has its own advantages and effects. For this reason, you may find that at different times and for different purposes, you want to use several different types of meditation.

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An In Depth Look At MUAY THAI

High kick in muay thai. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Also known around the world as Thai boxing, Muay Thai is an ancient art of self defense that was created and tested in battle by the fearless warriors of ancient Thailand.  Today, Muay Thai is used all around the world.  The United States Navy SEALs, Thai military, and even the CIA takes full advantage of the devastating and bone crushing techniques this martial art offers.

Unlike other martial arts, students of Thai don’t earn belts for their skills and their progression.  Instead, their skills are tested in the ring.  Since Thai fighting first began, the only things that the fighters themselves are interested in are the championship belts which showcase their dominance in Muay Thai fighting.

The skills that are taught with Muay Thai are far more dominant to other striking based martial arts.  Muay Thai uses very little grappling, but focuses more on crushing kicks, punches, and bone shattering elbows.  Students of Thai fighting can often take an opponent down with just one shot, often times breaking bones and sometimes even killing them with just one lethal kick or elbow.

The reason why Muay Thai didn’t utilize ground grappling or submission holds is because it was developed in ancient battlegrounds where there were always multiple attackers.  These attackers were knowledgeable in sword fighting skills, which made the need for a dependable martial art more or less a necessity.

Muay Thai used swords, spears, sticks, and hard strikes.  In this type of environment, you didn’t want the fight to go to the ground.  The strikes and weapon movements needed be fast, hard, and very precise.  With these types of conditions and the type of environment, Muay Thai needed be a very fast responsive martial art with an excellent weapons system.

Even though grappling and submissions were planned for Muay Thai, the martial art became more of a ring sport before grappling could be implemented.  With Thai originally being a martial art for striking purposes, a lot of martial artists have started using the techniques that have been proven time and time again with time boxing.

Although there are other martial arts that put a lot of emphasis on striking, Muay Thai is quite different.  The first area in which Muay Thai differs is the effective use of both elbows and knees.  The elbows and knees that are used with most Thai techniques are feared all around the world by boxers and other stylists.

Kicking and kneeing is the main objects in Muay Thai.  In order to become efficient with kicking, the shins need to be conditioned - which can be quite painful.  Once the Thai stylist has conditioned the nerves in his shins for impact, the shins can be used just like a club or a baseball bat.  This is something you should really see for yourself in action - as the sound of the impact alone can send chills down your back.

Through years of training and conditioning, Muay Thai fighters can become lethal and deadly weapons.  A properly trained fighter can make deadly impact, meaning that his knees, shins, and elbows are quite possibly deadlier than a gun or other type of weapon.  For this very reason - Muay Thai is one of the deadliest and most feared martial arts in the world.

All in all, Muay Thai is a great martial art for defense and competition.  Thai is one of the best martial arts in the world, proving it time and time again - in both ancient times and anytime it is used today

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A Look at SNORING Treatments

Photo  by hellostanley 

If your own efforts to stop snoring do not help, consult your physician or an otolaryngologist -- or a doctor for the ear, nose, and throat. If you choose to try a dental appliance as a snoring treatment, you will need to see a dentist specializing in these devices. Some medical snoring treatments are continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP), oral devices (including dental appliances and lower jaw positioners), and surgery.  

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure consists of sleeping with an air mask to maintain continuous air pressure in the throat. CPAP is a treatment for sleep apnea, as well as for snoring.

A wide range of dental appliances, oral devices, and lower jaw adjusters are available to alleviate snoring. Some people experience significant improvement with these oral appliances, which bring the lower jaw forward during sleep. Most of the products fit inside the mouth, but some products on the market are worn around the head and chin to adjust the position of the lower jaw. 

As far as surgery goes, Thermal Ablation Palatoplasty (TAP) treats snoring and various types of Obstructive Sleep Apnea. The types of TAP include laser-assisted uvula palatoplasty (LAUP) and radiofrequency ablation (or “somnoplasty”).  Laser-assisted uvula palatoplasty (LAUP) vaporizes the uvula and a portion of the palate with a laser in the doctor's office under local anaesthesia. LAUP effectively removes obstructions to the airway, which may be causing snoring or sleep apnea.

Laser-Assisted Uvula Palatoplasty has a higher success rate than Uvulopalatopharyngoplasty for sleep apnea (UPPP), but it requires a surgeon with expertise in laser procedures. Radiofrequency ablation, or somnoplasty, shrink excess tissue in the upper airway with a needle electrode. For snoring, the soft palate and uvula are reduced. For Obstructive Sleep Apnea, the base of the tongue is reduced. For chronic nasal obstruction, nasal turbinates are reduced. Somnoplasty does not require general anaesthesia. 

According to many experts, while other snoring treatments may help in cases of milder snoring problems, for heavy snoring, surgically correcting obstructive conditions in the nose, pharynx, or uvula may be the only solution.

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Introduction to AYURVEDA

The three dosha's and the 5 great elements they are composed of
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Ayurveda is a Sanskrit word, derived from two roots - ayur (which means life) and veda (knowledge). Knowledge arranged systematically with logic becomes a science. During the due course of time, Ayurveda became the science of life and now called so. It has its root in ancient vedic literature and encompasses our entire life, the body, mind, and spirit.

Another longer definition of ayurveda goes: ayurhitahitamvyadhe nidaanamshamanam thathaa vidyate yatra vidhwadhihi tatra ayurveda uchyate. This verse takes us to a deeper level to understand what ayurveda is.

A manifestation of Creation:

From the essence of satva the five senses are created:- Ears to hear, skin to perceive touch, eyes to see, the tongue to taste, and the nose, to smell. The essence of rajas is manifested as the five motor organs: speech, hands, feet, genitals and the organs of excretion. The mind is derived from satva, while rajas is manifested as prana, the life force. The tamasic quality is also responsible for the creation of tan matra, the subtle elements, and from whom the five basic elements are manifested. They are space, air, fire, water, and earth.

Space:

Expansion of consciousness is space and space is all-inclusive. We need space to live, and our bodily cells contain spaces.

Air:
Its representative in the body is the biological air, responsible for the movement of afferent and efferent, sensory and motor-neuron impulses.

Fire:

Where there is movement, there is friction, which creates heat, so the third manifestation of consciousness is fire, the principal of heat.

Water:

Because of the heat of the fire, consciousness melts into water.

Earth:

The next manifestation of consciousness is the earth element. Because of the heat of the fire and water, there is crystallization. According to Ayurveda, earth molecules are nothing but crystallization of consciousness.

The Three Doshas: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha

The structural aspect of the body is made up of five elements, but the functional aspect of the body is governed by three biological senses of humor. Ether and air together constitute vata; fire and water, pitta; and water and earth, kapha. Vata, pitta and kapha are the three biological senses of humor that are the three biological components of the organism. They govern psycho-biological changes in the body and physio-pathological changes too. Vata-pitta-kapha are present in every cell, tissue and organ. In every person, they differ in permutations and combinations.

According to Ayurveda, there are seven body types: mono-types (vata, pitta or kapha predominant), dual types (vata-pitta, pitta-kapha or, kapha-vata), and equal types, (vata, pitta and kapha in equal proportions). Every individual has a unique combination of these three doshas. To understand individuality is the foundation of healing according to Ayurveda, "The Science of Life" - http://www.ayurvedichealth.4t.com

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Earth, Metal and Fire and FENG SHUI?

Circle of Elements in Chinese lore (including Feng Shui). Also called the productive cycle: Fire produces Earth (ashes) Earth produces Metal (ore) Metal produces Water (condensation) Water produces Wood (nourishes) Wood produces Fire (nourishes) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Good Feng Shui means you have a balance of the five elements that compose the earth. Coversely, it also involves not having these elements overpower each other. Now, how do we really go about that? The basic principle on Feng Shui is heavily anchored on the five elements of the earth. In an ideal system, the five elements complement each other in a form of life cycle. If the environment fosters this positive nature that balances the five elements of the earth, then prosperity and good luck may not be far off.

Ideal System

The ideal system is where water produces wood, wood yields fire, and fire fashions the earth. Then, the earth forms the metal and the metal consequently produces the water. The overbearing and ugly system is when the elements contradict each other: wood burdens earth, fire destroys metal, earth hampers water, or water kills the fire. If you are able to see the visual properties of these elements, you may find that these arrangements prescribed by Feng Shui also make practical sense, even if you do not necessarily dig the concepts and foundations of Feng Shui.

Earth

You don’t have to be a geologist to understand good Feng Shui for earth. Earth is generally composed of ceramics and rocks. If you want a happy home, you must have a good dose of rocks and ceramics strategically placed in tune with the other elements that are present in your home. Lacking in earth, you may find yourself filled with instability and resilience that the earth is generally known for.

Metal

Electronic devices can actually have good feng shui as well. They are under the metal category, which not just brings in the technological advancements of this age but also the toughness brought about by metal materials in the different elements of Feng Shui. Make sure that metal is not colliding with fire elements, and this may even hold a practical significance because you wouldn’t want any of your electronic devices to catch fire!

Water

Zen fountains and the like form the water aspect of Feng Shui. Just ensure that water complements your metal. Overpowering your home with electronic appliances may actually appeal to the gadget junkie but not to the Feng Shui aficionado. Aside from the fact that water balances metal, you may also find that it has visual appeal if a person finds a Zen fountain in the midst of a sea of gadgets in the home which may be cool in function but not in appearance.

Fire

Candles and fireplaces are good examples of fire elements in Feng Shui. It may appear weird to put a fountain beside a fireplace for it contradicts that purpose, but many a movie had background sets with a fireplace and wooden furniture that is well ideal for a night of romance. Too much fire can actually drown the environment, so be very careful when lighting your environment. In business settings, it may also be advisable to tame down the effects of fire in the office. But it can be more unleashed in the personal setting, especially in romantic ones.

Wood

Wood is abundant in many places. Wooden furniture remain to be vintage to the Feng Shui expert. And this does not have to be only in the form of wooden furniture. Just by cultivating a garden in your home, you will be able to bring in a lot of wood that can help you balance the different elements.

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