The Pen ts'ao, 1249 C.E. Printed with woodblock, this illustrated book discusses Chinese herbal medicine.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)
In Chinese medicine, everything has a place and a structure in order to help with healing. All of these are natural approaches to bringing holistic health in an individual. One of the concepts that Chinese medicine uses in relation to this is herbal remedies. By combining a variety of elements, there is the ability for the herbs to help in healing everything.
The basis behind herbal remedies is to combine a series of herbs in order to bring about the desired effect. Usually, there will be a formula of four herbs used in combination with each other. This is done in order to treat secondary illnesses that may have been affected by the primary illness. It also helps to balance and strengthen the body while it is healing.
When Chinese medicine begins to divide the various herbal remedies, they will do so by a hierarchy. At the top of this hierarchy is the emperor herb. This will be used to cure the major illness that is taking place. Underneath this is the ‘ministers’ of the herbal remedy. This is used to treat any secondary illnesses that are taking place. After this, herbal ‘assistants’ will be used to support the other two herbs. The last set of herbs will be the messenger herbs, which will tell the primary and secondary herbs where to go and how much of an effect to take on the body.
The herbal remedies that are placed together after this will be divided by the specific symptoms that are being seen. Like all other parts of Chinese medicine, these will first be found through the five elements and how they relate to the body. For example, some herbs will be spicy in order to relate to areas of the body that need this extra element to begin a better flow of Qi.
The last part of herbal medicine from ancient Chinese remedies is to determine the type of energy that is needed by a person. This is found by diagnosis and examining the Qi that is in a person. After this, a specific mixture of these four hierarchies will be mixed together in order to help change the energy flow that is in someone.
By examining the Qi and finding respective remedies through herbs, one is able to find the best solutions using a holistic method. This allows one to benefit from the use of Chinese medicine and herbs in order to fight off an illness or a block of energy in their system.
This herb -Withania somnifera was photographed at Pune. Common name- Ashwagandha. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Ashwagandha - also known as Indian Winter Cherry has the Botanical name Withania Somnifera -It is a shrub belonging to Solanace family. It is grown in the western India, Gujarat, MP, Punjab and in the Himalayas.
Ashwagandha gets its name because its roots have the odor of horse. (Ashwa = horse, gandha = odor). It is called by another name Varaha karni because its leaves resemble pig’s ear.
Ashwagandha has light (laghu) and sticky (snigdha) properties, bitter and sweet taste. On digestion the sweet taste dominates. The main part used is the root of this herb.
Medicinal properties of Ashwagandha
The various medicinal properties of ashwagandha are attributed to compounds known as withanolides which are present in it.
Ashwagandha is used as an adaptogen (as it enhances endurance), rejuvenating tonic and sedative. Hence many herbalists refer this herb as Indian ginseng.
Effects on mind: As it balances vata and kapha, it improves memory, counteracts the effects of stress and calms the mind. It has an ability to relieve stress. It acts as a sedative. Stressed patients with insomnia are benefited by this herb.
Effects on general health: It acts as balya and strengthens the body. Generally, ashwagandha stimulates the immune system and strengthens it. It increases body energy level.
Convalescent patients’ gain more energy and can spring back to normal routine quicker when this herb’s preparations are used after an illness.
The immediate relapse of disease is prevented on use of Ashwagandha. This supports HIV patients by strengthening their immune system.
Anti-inflammatory properties: It has anti-inflammatory properties and has been successfully used in adjuvant therapy for arthritis. It reduces inflammation of joints and eases movements.
Effects on digestive system: Ashwagandha increases appetite . It normalizes digestion and bowel movements.
Effects on the reproductive system: This magic herb increases shukra dhatu, sperm count, and sperm motility. It increases libido and known as best Vajikara dravya (aphrodisiac)
It is also used as a uterine tonic and to enhance female libido.
Ashwagandha retards aging process when used as rasayana (rejuvenating preparation).
It reduces hypertension and also acts as a diuretic.
Effects on a pregnant woman: Ashwagandha is very effective in conditions like habitual abortion, threatened abortion. It stabilizes pregnancy and balances hormones which stabilize pregnancy.
Useful preparations of Ashwagandha:
1.A paste of ashwagandha leaves when applied on a local inflammation acts as anti-inflammatory.
2.The herbal massage oil which includes this herb is useful in many conditions like paralysis, epilepsy, sleeplessness etc.
3.The preparation of Ashwagandha which is processed with ghee, sugar, and honey is a very good aphrodisiac and increases semen quantity, sperm count and motility. It is effectively used in Erectile dysfunction, low libido, and premature ejaculation.
4Ashwagandha roots, when used regularly, helps to improve the conditions like emaciation of children, senile debility, rheumatism, in all cases of general debility, nervous exhaustion, brain-fag, low of memory, loss of muscular energy and spermatorrhoea. It increases body energy and vigor. It helps to rebuild the body system which is worn out due to chronic diseases like syphilis, rheumatism etc. It also replenishes the lowered energy of a body due to over-work, mental exertion thus preventing early aging.
5Ashwagandha when used regularly, is very useful for emaciated children. It increases body weight and body energy.
6Regular use of ashwagandha helps to reduce blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
7Fine powder of ashwagandha well mixed with oil is very use full in many skin conditions.
8Ashwagandha also acts as galactogogue and thickens the milk when given to nursing mothers.
This is the continuation of my previous article where I discuss the effect of Mars, Mercury and Venus on a person's personality. In this article, I will talk about the effects of Jupiter and Saturn.
Jupiter:
Jupiter is the largest planet in our solar system. Jupiter is the planet of good luck, success, and positive thinking. The position of Jupiter in your birth chart indicates what things are lucky for you. It also tells you what career is most suited for you and what areas in life will bring you the most luck. In mythology, Jupiter was known as the supreme God. If Jupiter is well placed in your chart then it means you are outgoing, you are very lucky in terms of money and possessions. Also if Jupiter is well placed in your chart, it means that you will never have to worry too much, things will come easily to you but at the last minute. You also are popular among people and successful in your career. With all the good things it has to offer, there does not seem like there would be a negative influence of the planet. But there is a bad part and that is excessive goodness. Like with everything, the excess of anything is not good, if you get everything it can make you lazy and you will never develop strength of character.
Saturn:
Saturn is the second largest planet. Saturn is the planet of responsibility and symbolizes hard work. Anyone going through the phase of Saturn will learn to be hardworking and will face a lot of trials and difficulty which will make him strong of character. Saturn also teaches a person discipline. It is the planet of self control, patience, maturity, and realism. It might seem like a very harsh and cold planet but you should see it as a strict parent who is trying to teach you all the good things in life so that you can be a good and responsible person. Saturn will put you through a lot of difficult situations just to test you and give you a lesson but don't worry since whatever it gives would never be more than what you can handle. If Saturn is placed in a strong position in your chart then it means that you are patient and responsible. If Saturn is placed poorly in your birth chart, it can make you selfish, unhappy, and solitary and a pessimist. But as I said before, don't be scared of it, accept what Saturn has to offer and you will end up thanking it for whatever you leaned.
The astrological symbols/glyphs used in Western astrology to represent the planets in astrology
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Influence of different planets in different signs can play an important role in understanding your birth chart and in turn your personality.
Mercury:
Mercury is the second smallest planet in the solar system and the planet is closest to the sun. I am sure you know all this but what you don't know is the effect that mercury has when placed in different signs. Mercury reflects the way you see, hear and understand things. If mercury is strong in your chart then it will endow you with a good memory and makes you eloquent and also you love traveling. If mercury is weak in your chart it tends to make you critical, sarcastic and argumentative.
Venus:
Venus is the planet of love and it rules your capacity to express affection and to enjoy the beauty. When Venus is strong in your chart then it endows you with a very easy going nature and it makes you a lover of everything that is beautiful. It also tells how you relate to the opposite sex, and also tells about your social relationships. The negative side of Venus, on the other hand, makes you a narcissist and you lack in willpower.
Mars:
Mars is the planet of physical energy. It is the planet of passion, sexuality, and force. People with a strong Mars influence have a very strong personality with a lot of energy and you are quick and active and hate to be bossed around. On the other hand, if Mars is not well positioned in your chart, it can make you argumentative and quarrelsome and it may cause problems in the personal relationship. It can also make you impulsive and impatient.
This is a very general idea of how the planets affect your personality, for the effect of the rest of the planets on your personality read my other articles.
Dia likes writing articles - Article Directory: EzineArticles
Birth chart: a birth chart is divided into 12 parts called 12 houses and the planets are signs are placed in these houses. Each planet in a different house and different sign signifies something different. Birth charts are very precise as it is very hard to get the exact same chart as someone else but remember that they are not perfect as there are things that are beyond science and calculations and no one can explain them.
While analyzing your birth chart you need to take the houses, planets and the zodiac signs all into consideration. Earlier you must have thought that you are a Virgo or a Leo or a Gemini. But now you will realize that all the signs play an important role in your chart and all of them contribute to your personality and your future. Below I will talk about what sun and moon.
Sun is the most important planet in our solar system (all of us know that, nothing new in it.). It helps in the sustenance of life in this world. It provides us with warmth, energy, and food that essential to our life. Although the sun is a star in astrology it is referred as a planet. The position of the sun in your birth chart governs your personality, how you react to things in life, your goals in life, your individuality, and style. Your sun sign will tell you about your general traits that can be seen by others. The other traits that people won't notice but you can notice are the ones caused by the influence of different planets in different signs in your birth chart. Understanding your sun sign will help you understand yourself better and help you grow as a person.
Moon is again not a planet but in context of astrology, it is referred as a planet. Moon is the 2nd most important planet after sun while understanding your personality. The moon signifies your inner self; it helps you in understanding your emotions and instincts. The moon personality is that part of yourself that you want to keep hidden, the part that feels anger, jealousy, the spontaneous joy, fantasies. The moon has power over the emotional sphere, hence it influences your receptivity to others and how other people feel about you. Sometimes you might feel that you are always in a conflict as to what to do then you should read more about your sun and moon sign and learn both the positive and negative traits and apply the positive things in your life and try to work around the negative traits.
Candles are commonly used for lightening a dark room when your home’s power is gone or more often in a candlelight dinner. But, the usage of candles is not confined to this only. Introduction of aromatherapy candles have added a new perspective to the usage of candles, candles now serve as a basis to achieve health, vitality and rejuvenating of the body as well as mind and spirit.
Aromatherapy candles are made with beeswax, soybean wax or vegetable oil. One can even find pure essential oil candles on the market. The best thing about aromatherapy candles is that they are environmentally friendly as they are derived from natural plant sources.
Uses of aromatherapy candles: -
Set the atmosphere
Improve the ambience in many situations
Can be used in any room of your home and provide a wonderful enhancement.
Scented with essential oils or herbs that send messages of relaxation or rejuvenation to the mind and body
Aromatherapy candles are available in different styles, sizes, and scents. You can choose the appropriate candle as per your requirement and aspiration. Scented candles can add warmth to any home, they can give a clean, refreshing feel. Many candles are scented with essential oils or oils that come from plants.
If by now you have decided to buy an aromatherapy candle, learn what kinds of scents they are available in and what are their benefits: -
Frankincense is warming.
Peppermint is strong and minty. Can aid with alertness
Lemon is also a stong scent and can help dispel fatigue
Jasmine smells as good as it sounds can help spark romance
Grapefruit is another citrus scent that can lift your spirits
Vanilla is very rich and helps to relieve tension and irritability.
Lavender is fresh and floral. This can help dispel a soor disposition
Aromatherapy candles are cost effective and are natural candles. They have many benefits over candles made up of paraffin. Soy wax that is most commonly used in making aromatherapy candles is naturally non-toxic, biodegradable renewable resource. It also burns slower and produces very little dust and smoke.
The Internet has made it easier for all to access the desired aromatherapy candles with ease without going out shopping. You can access the infinite number of lenders with just a few clicks. Look for lenders who provide pure aromatherapy candles with essential oil.
Aromatherapy candles are the best cost-effective means to relax and can rejuvenate your senses and body. Choose the desired candles with caution, a little bit of research can help you get the desired candles at a reasonable rate.
Woman looking at Bach Flower remedies at a branch of "Whole Foods Market". (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
A Bach Flower Therapy Introduction and the 12-7-19 Method of Bach Flower Essence Classification:
Dr. Edward Bach, the developer of flower essence therapy, classified the original 38 essences he used in his practice according to the 12-7-19 method: the Twelve Healers, the Seven Helpers, and the Second Nineteen. In part I of this series, the Twelve Healer flower essences were reviewed, along with the underlying theory of flower essence therapy – here we’ll have a look at the rhymes and reasons of the Seven Helpers.
Dr. Bach prescribed one or more of the Seven Helper essences to patients who did not seem to be responding sufficiently to therapy with one of the Twelve Healers. The Twelve Healer flower essences – Impatiens, Gentian, Mimulus, Clematis, Agrimony, Chicory, Vervain, Centaury, Scleranthus, Water Violet, Rock Rose, and Cerato – were developed by Dr. Bach to address what he saw as the imbalances of the twelve archetypal personality types. It is through the vibrational transformation of these imbalances that healing of overlying disease states can, in many cases, be initiated. However, Dr. Bach found there were individuals that did not respond to flower essence therapy with the Twelve Healers; this leads him to the discovery of the Seven Helpers.
The Purpose of the 'Seven Helper' Flower Essences:
The purpose of the Seven Helpers is to address chronically ingrained negative vibrational patterns which may be obscuring the primary personality type. For example, Olive, one of the Seven Helper flower essences, is prescribed for states of exhaustion, where one has been worn out by the struggle of healing or another life event. In this case, it may be difficult to see what the primary personality type of the individual may be, as true fatigue does not let a whole lot else show through - this real weariness may mask other personality traits or patterns.
Or it may be that the chronic state simply prevents progress on the healing path that could otherwise take place. Again, using Olive essence as an example – An individual may clearly be in need of one of the Twelve Healers. Perhaps they live in fear and are in need of Mimulus, and clearing this fear would allow them to heal. However, their fatigue is so great as they do not have the strength to work with these issues – in this case, it may be helpful to use Olive along with Mimulus to offer a more complete support from the flower essence therapy.
The Seven Helper essences can certainly be administered individually as well, particularly if a specific flower essence is strongly indicated. Dr. Bach had also written that if an individual is not responding to other essences, Wild Oat (one of the Seven) may be used: “If ever a case does not respond to treatment, give either Holly or Wild Oat, and it will be obvious which of the other remedies may be required. In all cases where the patient is of the active, intense type, give Holly. In patients who are of the weak, despondent type, give Wild Oat.”
Beyond the original works of Dr. Bach, the Flower Essence Repertory from Flower Essence Services offers descriptions of these seven essences beyond what a physician may see. FES broadens the application of the flowers to include their use for those needing change that may or may not is related to a health condition. This is an important point, as one may have tendencies they may wish to transform, but are at no serious risk. This application of flower essence is encouraged, for any support for personal and ‘soul’ evolution is indeed invaluable. So within the following descriptions of the Seven Helper flower essences, a broad view will be maintained, so that the greatest audience may find a suitable essence.
As always with flower essence therapy, in cases of illness, treatment is not a substitute for proper professional care. It may be the case that an illness may have emotional roots and that flowers can be of help, but one should not solely rely on self-prescription of flower essences as a cure.
And on to the descriptions…
The Seven Helpers:
Olive – As stated earlier, Olive flower essence is indicated where great fatigue has set in. An individual may be pale, worn out and/or exhausted after excessive worry, illness, grief or other struggles. The individual perhaps feels they do not have the strength to continue; that both their physical energy source has been spent. The Olive remedy allows one to tap into a new source of light, helping one see and feel a rejuvenation that comes from establishing (or re-establishing) a connection to a universal energy. This connection may provide the impetus needed for change in other areas or may be transformative in and of itself by helping on realize that the etheric ‘spirit’ body and the physical body are inseparable.
Gorse – This flower essence is used where one has lost will due to discouragement, becoming hopeless and resigned to one’s condition. They have perhaps been giving too much energy to the negative possibilities, solidifying this outlook so no progress can be made. This remedy restores hope to such individuals so they may be able to have a brighter outlook, perhaps more joy when confronted with life’s challenges.
Oak – The remedy for those committed to over-striving, regardless if that striving is having a positive result. Those in need of the Oak flower essence have great determination and strength, which can be true assets. However, at times it is crucial to balance this force with subtlety and grace. The individual may have even become resigned to the inevitable failure of their endeavor or succumbing to an illness, yet they continue with their efforts. Oak helps restore a balance, allowing one the freedom of letting up or resting when that is in fact what is required. An important essence in today’s hard-striving world.
Vine – For those who see their way as the ‘right’ way or the only way, Vine essence allows an opening in one’s perception for other points of view. An individual in need of Vine may have a domineering personality, insisting that everyone else follow their lead, including health professionals. Such a point of view can lead to great stress when it is perceived do not share the same ideas, and that harm, or at least lack of healing, may come about. Vine essence may soften this selfish nature, assisting one to understand that other points of view may be entirely valid, and in fact, more complete than one’s own. This allows the individual to receive needed support, often a key component in any personal transformation.
Heather – The Heather type appear self-obsessed, talking continually about their own situations and problems. Such persons are in fact truly lonely and often in great emotional pain. They may feel an emptiness or hunger, which they feed on the attention of others. This flower essence helps one make a connection to the Higher Self, finding peace and solace in the unity of all being. This realization helps one overcome the loneliness and disconnection they may feel, drawing on emotional self-sufficiency and true shared relationship with others for assistance.
Rock Water – For those that are too hard on themselves. Being reflective and aware is one thing, to go so far as to limit one’s (and one’s friends and family) enjoyment of life is another. Flexibility and spontaneity are key components of the ‘life well lived’. Further, a rigidity in lifestyle can prevent one from finding joy, an important factor in healing from many illnesses. This essence is sometimes indicated for those beginning flower essence therapy or those who do not see results, as it may assist in opening the soul to the energies of the plant realm.
Wild Oat – Health and happiness are very much connected with one’s ability to find one’s true vocation. Wandering through life feeling a lack of purpose can lead to distressed states, with addictions or despondency being possible results. Wild Oat flower essence may help align one with their true calling so that both the individual and the greater environment can benefit. When one finds this sense of meaning, there is a strong inner light that can shine forth, supporting one’s own health, and the health of those around them.
These are the Seven Helpers, as categorized per Dr. Edward Bach’s 12-7-19 flower essence method. It is said that with the Twelve Healers and the Seven Helpers, one can support a transformation of many vibrational/emotional states. At the same time, it is important to keep one’s mind open to possibilities; there are a great number of researched flower essences available, ones that may be even more precisely applied to a particular situation. The Healer and Helper essences are, however, a fantastic place to start if one is seeking an effective collection of remedies, suitable for the needs of many beings.
Working platform for scientific investigations with alternative energy sources (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Record high prices at American gas pumps and continued trouble-brewing in the Middle East, Nigeria, and other areas of importance to the oil-driven economy have made it clear to Americans that we are in need of developing many new avenues of energy supply and production. In short, we need to reduce our dependency on oil, for it is ultimately finite and, frankly, the cheap sources of oil (not all oil—just the stuff that is cheap to remove from the earth) are running out. Energy consultants and analysts are insistent that cheap oil has “peaked” or is very soon going to peak. What this means for us is an expensive future—unless we can find new sources of powering our mechanized and electronic civilization, new sources which are alternatives to oil.
We must also switch to alternative forms of energy because our present forms are too damaging to the atmosphere. While this writer does not believe that the global warming trend is much, if at all, sustained by the activities of mankind (in short, it's a natural cycle and there's nothing we can do about it except prepare for the effects of it), we certainly do contribute at present to the destruction of the environment and to things like air pollution with our energy sources as they are. Coal is another source of energy that we need to wean ourselves off of—again, it is finite, and it is filthy, and the mining of it is dangerous and environmentally disruptive. We can also explore new, streamlined methods for producing electricity that we presently generate so much of via hydro-power so that we are less disruptive of the environment when we have need of constructing things such as large dams.
Developing nations which have turned industrialized in recent decades especially will need the benefits of alternative energy research and development, for they are presently doing much more environmental damage than the United States. The United States, Japan, and some European nations have been implementing studies into and programs for the development of alternative energy sources, and are therefore already leading the way in doing less environmental damage. The developing nations such as China and India need to look to Japan and the West as examples of what research and development to give government backing and private investment currency to. We could also add great robustness to our own economy by being at the forefront of such alternative energy sources development and then be marketing the technologies and services to nations like India, China, Brazil, and so on and so forth.
Biofuels from things like “supertrees” and soybeans, refined hydroelectric technology, natural gas, hydrogen fuel cells, the further building of atomic energy plants, the continued development of solar energy photovoltaic cells, more research into wind-harnessed power—all of these are viable energy sources that can act as alternatives to the mammoth amounts of oil and coal that we presently are so dependent on for our very lifestyles. The energy of the future is green.
Using Aloe vera to make a dessert (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Aloe vera with ginkgo nuts, longans, and white fungus is a nutritious Chinese dessert (or "tang sui" or "tong sui" in Chinese). This Chinese dessert is suitable to be taken during hot summer days as it has cooled. The white fungus usually uses in Chinese soup as it is known to benefit the spleen, strengthens the stomach and expel heat. Meanwhile, ginkgo nuts are good for women who experience excessive white discharge and children with weak bladders.
This dessert can be taken cold or hot. Remove the ginkgo nuts by cracking the shell before cooking. To remove the skin from the nuts, keep them in the refrigerator first. This will loosen the skin so that it is easier to peel.
As for the white fungus, soak them in cold water for a while. Once the white fungus becomes soft, cut into small pieces.
Remove the aloe vera skin before cooking. Slice them into small pieces.
Longans skin is light brown in color. The flesh is juicy and transparent.
Ingredients
2 pieces white fungus
1/2 cup longans (canned)
1/4 cup ginkgo nuts
1/8 cup aloe vera flesh
1/2 cup sugar
3 cups water
Method:
Soak the white fungus in cold water for a few minutes.
Remove the skin from aloe vera.
Remove the shell and skin from the ginkgo nuts.
Mix all the ingredients together and boil for 2 hours.
Serve when cooked.
This dessert can be boiled longer if you want the nuts to be softer. If you want to boil longer, use a slow cooker and set to high. It will be cooked to perfection in 4 hours time. Add only enough water to cover the ingredients. This will fasten the cooking time. Once the desserts cook, switch off the stove, add sugar and some more boiled water.
For more information, recipes and also pictures of the ingredients, visit the author's Asian food recipes blog. The author has 30 years of cooking experience. She specializes in Asian food recipes and emphasizes on easy to cook recipes with added health benefits. View her recipe collections in her website here: http://www.asianfoodandrecipes.blogspot.com
Acupuncture chart from the Ming Dynasty: The Pericardium Meridian of Hand-Jueyin
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Whenever you are feeling pain and discomfort, you'd usually reach for your painkillers for relief. While they do relieve the pain, they also bring along side effects that come with taking foreign chemicals into your body. As much as modern medicine has developed drugs that can relieve pain right off the bat, do you really think that the quick fixes you've been taking are actually good for your body? Why not try something safer and more effective like acupuncture.
What is acupuncture?
Acupuncture has surged in popularity for the last few decades as brought on by the recent health trend. Mostly known as a traditional Chinese medical technique, acupuncture is seen as a homeopathic method of treatment. While alternative medicine does raise a lot of eyebrows for the scientifically-inclined, it does merit attention before being dismissed as a quack cure.
Basic Procedure
Basically, needles are inserted into the skin, each corresponding to one of the numerous pressure points located throughout the body. According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, by inserting a needle into the pressure point, an acupuncturist can manipulate the flow of chi or life force, thus relieving pain and gradually treating the patient. While most would say that the whole chi thing is a bunch of nonsense, science has suggested that with the needles inserted, the body's natural painkillers called endorphins are released, thus helping with pain relief.
Instruments
Modern acupuncturists nowadays use disposable fine stainless steel needles that are 0.007 to 0.020 inches in diameter which are sterilized with either ethylene oxide or by autoclave. Since they are way finer than hypodermic syringe needles, being poked by these needles are relatively painless. The upper third of the needle is covered with either a thicker bronze wire or plastic to make the needle sturdier and easier to handle. The length of the needle and how far they are inserted is all up to the acupuncturist and his practiced style of acupuncture.
Example Of Treatment
If a patient has a headache, he/she is diagnosed and is treated by stimulating the sensitive points located at the webs between the thumbs and palms. In acupuncture theory, these points are connected to the face and head and can be used for the treatment of headaches and other ailments involved. Needles are then carefully inserted into the skin until the patient feels a twinge, which is usually accompanied by a slight involuntary twitching of the area. During this treatment, a number of things may occur.
- Sensitivity to pain in where needles are inserted.
- A hint of nausea during treatment in case of bad headaches.
- Near-immediate headache relief.
Evolution
As an ancient method, acupuncture has crossed over into the modern age with implementations of technology and recent scientific findings. Electrical stimulation is now a common technique that is combined with acupuncture to produce more effective results. Also, acupuncturists combined this eastern technique with western methods to further enhance the treatment.
Practitioners have eventually realized that leaning towards one school of thought can't propagate progress unless they are willing to move towards the future by looking towards other horizons as well.
Reactions And Research
Not everyone is impressed with acupuncture itself. Most western medical professionals have expressed either doubt or indifference to the oriental method while others have downright driven it down into the earth with criticisms and brutal skepticism. However, recent research shows the efficacy (or lack thereof) of acupuncture, and while more research has to be done, it has been proven to actually positively affect some, but not all, forms of ailments that it claims to cure.
So as the doors open to a new age of acupuncture, give it a try when you feel the need for pain relief and you will not be disappointed. As the Chinese have used it for many centuries, so should we.
At this point, let’s break down the major components of a typical Hatha Yoga session, and see how each one will enable you to reach your goals. There are nine main styles of Yoga in India, but most of the popular styles, outside of India, are variations of Hatha Yoga. Hatha Yoga classes tend, among other things, to emphasize physical mastery.
Asanas are the physical postures, but depending upon the class, the postures may be held for different durations, such as a half breath (an exhale or inhale), a few breaths, or a few minutes. Some classes are very active, with flowing movement, heated studios up to 105 degrees Fahrenheit, and others are tranquil at around 70 degrees Fahrenheit, all year long.
So there is a style of Yoga for every person, and you should be aware of what you are getting into before you start. You should also be aware that the doors are not locked, and if 105 degrees is too much heat, it is your call.
This past summer, in Arizona, a number of people died, due to excessive heat. If your body temperature reaches 105 degrees, you could possibly have heat stroke. What is your natural climate like? Please know your temperature tolerance and know that people are different.
The Yoga postures release tension throughout your body, regardless of which style you choose. The added surge of endorphins, as a result of this exercise, is another benefit.
Pranayama, sometimes called the Yogic science of breathing, is the cultivation of air - our most vital resource. Therefore, you can increase the amount of oxygen in your bloodstream without classic calisthenics, but when you combine it with the postures; you have a very powerful combination for stress relief.
Meditation is known for its stress management, focused concentration, and conscious relaxation benefits. In fact, there are so many meditation benefits, that after more than 2,000 studies, scientists still research for more.
How will all this help you achieve your goals? Simple: Once you are armed with the ability to relieve yourself from the burdens of stress, negative obstacles, and needless worrying, you then have the ability to prioritize and learn from your mistakes.
If you make a mistake, so does everyone else. Nobody is keeping track of your mistakes, except you. Everyone wants to be recognized, so grab every opportunity you can. Make sure you don’t forget to write your goals down and review them often. You will see them come to pass.
Time is valuable and there are a number of successful methods for goal realization. Yoga will cross train your mind and body for maximum potential.
Imagine being able to optimize your attitude in one hour, per day, or less.
Every day, people attend Yoga classes for physical or mental health, and walk away with the tools, to be masters of their own destiny.
How is this possible? Regular attendance to Yoga classes will result in a positive attitude adjustment for the student. Many of us walk around with a “perceived handicap.” We blame everything for our setbacks and lack of opportunities. Society, your boss, and your family are all easy targets to blame, for lack of opportunities.
It is true that age, financial status, gender, and ethnic background, are factors in success. However, these factors can all be overcome by working toward your goal on a daily basis and taking life one-step-at-a-time.
Remember, that if you think your situation is a disability, it will be.
How can Yoga do anything for you? For one thing, you will appreciate life to it’s fullest. You will stop wasting time, by letting daily opportunities go by.
Many of us have opportunities, but we think it won’t work, we don’t have what it takes for success, or we lack the drive to carry a plan through.
Yoga and meditation teach you to supervise your mind. Your mind has been allowed to work against you. Much like a “backseat driver,” the mind is good at “second-guessing,” fearing, doubting, and discouraging new ideas. The mind would prefer to stay in one place and let the world go by. Leaving you in a deeper state of frustration, by worrying about making a mistake.
You have to cultivate a positive relationship with your mind, through practising Yoga postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), and meditation. You can find all this, and much more, in your local Yoga class. All you have to do is make it a regular routine. Yoga classes are everywhere, from corporate health clubs to senior centres. Whether you practice before, or after, work is not important, and you will start to feel the mental benefits, right away.
Many Yoga students walk away from their first class feeling guilty, that it took so long to start. They anguish over the fact they procrastinated so long.
However, the important part is to start and continue your Yoga practice.
There is also a common feeling of euphoria during and after Yoga classes.
The group support, classroom atmosphere, and the endorphins will make your day a much better one.
Sorcery - Paramour with the devil (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The word witch derives from an ancient variant of a Willow tree. The willow was the tree of the triple moon goddess (maiden, women, & hag). Willow worshipers (witches) were said to possess supernatural powers of divination. They were generally associated with venerating the Devil at nocturnal orgies. Witchcraft is a bizarre art that has been prevalent from immemorial times.
The essence of this craft is an inane desire to possess additional powers to either enhance his youth or life. The epitome of this is the mystique of sex that is closely interwoven with witchcraft. Why sex? As Hegel and Adler have written, sex is a prime ordeal force and the sublime that everybody craves for. It does not die with old age or infirmness though one can crave and not be able to perform. At this stage, sexual fulfillment can only be prolonged by the black arts and its supreme the Devil. This is in sharp contrast to the religious doctrine which generally shuns sex. If God represents this doctrine than its antithesis the Devil represents sensual pleasure of which sex and all its variations are the main body.
The first stage of this art is the initiation and the ceremony involved with it. Initiation ceremonies are held the world over and vary from place to place. In England local initiation meetings were usually held once a week, but the "Sabbath of the Witches" held four times a year and usually on Thursday was the more important of the gatherings when a large no believer would be admitted to the fold. The person or Devil under whose superintendence it functioned was referred to as Beelzebub, Satan or Lucifer. The people who constituted this meeting called it the Coven. And to all such members of the Coven, the presiding person represented the GOD. He was worshiped and the greatest gift a disciple or a person being initiated could give was his or her body to the devil. In other words, the devil would copulate with the person and the person would receive the seed of the devil. This was and remains a major part of the initiation ceremony. So strong indeed was the covens belief in his power and so much was he adored, that the witches (persons attending the coven) dedicated their bodies and also of their daughters if any to the Devil,. The ritual was in early times quite queer, though by modern standards not all that bizarre. The ceremony would start with Devil undressing in front of the gathering and then would wear a long loose robe. A lady who had to be initiated into the cult would be led to the altar in the center of the room and laid on a raised platform. The Devil or the presiding deity would undress the lady in front of the congregation. She would be asked certain questions as to her willingness to be the Devil's disciple and whether she was ready to receive the seed of the devil. On her affirmative reply, the ceremony would proceed further.
The Devil would then begin the final part which was again played before the audience as the 'Devil' would position himself for the "Coup de Main", an entry into the initiator's body. The man would mate with the woman by making loud cries as if simulating the Devil. If the lady conceived the children were considered the Devils progeny and grew up "in the service". After the Devil had partaken of the woman she was kept on the altar and offered to other covens that also had sex with her. In fact, this ceremony is beautifully depicted in Roman Polanski in his film "Rosemary's Baby". In England, such ceremonies are still in existence and serve as a source of extreme sexual gratification.
Even in New Guiana in the Dutch East Indies, it was quite common to make love to the woman being initiated by a strong stud from the gathering, right out in the open air. Once in every 7 years there would be, what was called "Great Sabbath", at which all covens of a wide district would congregate, and tradition has it that on that occasion the Chief Witch or 'Devil" would sacrifice a young virgin after she had been deflowered and had mated with the Devil and his apostles. Thankfully this is now obsolete, but in some primitive cultures in India and Africa is still in vogue.
The actual initiation ceremony into the mysteries of witchcraft must have been an exciting experience. The aspirant to membership, after being duly recommended, would have to be introduced; and the manner of introduction would be kept secret until the actual event. Before the assembled covens there would be a renouncement on the part of the candidate of any former faith and then the person would give his or her body to the Devil. After the reception, the candidate would be baptized with a new name such as "Thief of Heaven" etc. The initiation ceremonies are an important part of the ritual of the black arts. Nothing can be complete until one gives his or her body to the "Devil". Also if there is a betrayal of confidence on the part of the member, then retribution is swift, sometimes with an iron rod.
There are also Demons, fiends and Specters known as Succubus and Incubus. Incubus is supposed to be a lascivious demon who appears to a woman at night and ravishes her body. While Succubus was somewhat similar Demon possessed of the power of assuming the form of a woman. This is itself a worldwide phenomenon and is persisted in modern times. Taylor in his work 'Primitive Culture (1873) says that these male and female nocturnal demons which consort lasciviously with men and women are indeed a fact. In the Islands of West Indies, there are Ghosts of the dead, vanishing when clutched at. In New Zealand ancestral deities form an attachment with females, paying them repeated visits. In the Samoan islands, such intercourse with inferior Gods was believed to bring about supernatural conception. In Hindu Tantra, formal rites are specified which enable a man to obtain a companion nymph by worshiping at night in any burial place. One of the aspects of witchcraft is the continuation of pagan ritual for fertility for barren women. In real terms, it is little more than absolute belief in the divine power of Satan. Many a barren woman has resorted to such rites for herself. But sex is the ultimate path in the Devils armor and leads to him. Like prayer leads to God.
The sexual act is known to release energy and is looked down by all religions, but for the Devil who is the Anti-thesis of God and goodness, it is an essential ritual. Perhaps this energy released in a sexual union does have something to do with black arts.
In Europe nocturnal intercourse with Incubi and Succubi are carried out in full belief by ecclesiastics and lawyers; priests and witches.
Nowadays the part of Incubus is usually played by the chief of witches Coven, in disguise and sometimes in semi-darkness to heighten the power and effect of the occult.
Bram Stoker in his famous work "Count Dracula" has vividly portrayed another facet of witchcraft. In this form a vampire (usually a man who remains alive after death with the help of sorcery) to remain 'alive' needs to have intercourse with a female and a woman vice versa i.e., cohabit with a man, with a peculiar ritual that makes such creatures live on by drinking the blood of their victims.
Like in prayer one gives himself up to God, so in this case, also there is a voluntary personal surrender of ones will and body to the Devil; and then only one can get something in return. The immortal tale of Dr. Faustus and the selling of his soul to the Devil in return for the immortal love of Helen, the most beautiful woman in history is a tragic example of this. Again the fundamental driving force for Dr. Faustus was sex and he craved of it with Helen.
Hence we may conclude that one of the essential ingredients of sorcery, witchcraft and black magic is the sexual act. Mans desire for the sublime pleasure of sex will ensure that the Black arts including witchcraft will survive for all time to come.
Marc Pinto drawing a design on a client at the Singapore Tattoo Show 2010.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)
To many people, tattoos are exotic and daring things to get into. It's such a huge decision as the design, whatever it may be, will be permanent. Not only might this seem daunting but the actual process of getting a tattoo can be frightening to those who have never experienced it.
Most people know that tattoos are created with a needle that delivers ink into the skin through the use of a special tattoo gun or machine. Beyond that, many are clueless as to how the procedure might actually carry on. It is important to realize that every tattoo artist and parlor vary in their techniques.
The first thing to be prepared for is choosing a design. If you have a copy of something, in particular, be prepared to discuss it with your tattoo artist. He or she may be able to make recommendations to make the image look its best on your skin.
If you do not already have a design, the tattoo artist can assist you. The design will depend on where you want the tattoo on your body and if you prefer all one color or multiple colors. The tattoo artist can assist with making decisions based on your personality, size preference for that tattoo and the aesthetics of the design.
Once the design has been decided upon, the tattoo artist creates a stencil. This stencil is laid out on the skin and traced. Some artists will draw the stencil straight on the skin freehanded. The general design can be visualized at this point on the skin.
When the design is decided upon, the tattoo process begins. This is where things can start to change a bit. Depending on the location where the tattoo will end up, the customer is typically seated in a position as comfortable as possible to make for easy access to the skin by the tattoo artist. Obviously, the sitting position will vary accordingly.
The time frame is another variance. As is easily guessed extravagant, intricate and very large tattoos will take a longer amount of time than a smaller, simpler design. Tattoos that are excessively large, such as designs covering the entire back often require repeat visits to the tattoo parlor.
Generally, for an easy and small tattoo of one color, one can typically expect it to take about an hour or less for the design. Some can take as little as thirty minutes. If there are a lot of color changes or intricacies the amount of time will increase.
Price can vary depending on the geographical location of the tattoo parlor. Other factors that are reflected in the price include the size of the tattoo, difficulty and color variations. Many parlors charge by the hour with a general range of between $40 - $150 per hour, again depending on location and the design. For very large tattoos, prices might change accordingly switching from a per-hour fee to a set fee for the entire process.
Once the design is finished, expect to be taught how to care for the tattoo afterward. It may be dressed in a bandage that will need proper care for the days following. The tattoo artist will discuss all aftercare instructions with the customer prior to letting them leave the parlor.
Getting a tattoo can seem a lot less daunting when you know what to expect. Getting to know your tattoo artist can help one feel more at ease with the whole procedure. Meeting the staff beforehand might also go along way to ensure comfort with those working around you.
I am amazed by the many opportunities that we have to learn on a daily basis. I am speaking of the chances we get every day to learn about ourselves. We can learn from the bad things that happen to us as well as the good things. I believe that everything and everyone can be a teacher. The Bible itself talks about how God works for the good of those who love Him in all things.
I believe this. Mr. Kahlil Gibran talks about how we can learn kindness from the unkind and yet how we are ungrateful for this teacher. Yes, mean people can, in fact, teach us to be nicer. When we see how ugly mean words and actions look from a spiritual standpoint we can make a decision to be nice. No one wants to look ugly physically or spiritually.
When I focus on learning rather than reacting I will make much better decisions. You see when I simply react, my decisions are based on my emotions rather than my intellect and spirituality. I have learned that when I respond in a meaningful manner to a mean person, it is like matching fire with fire. In these cases, both people are likely to be burned. I can instead choose to match their fire of unkindness with the water of kindness. We all know that water puts out the fire. It is up to me as to how I will respond.
How do you respond when you are challenged to be spiritual? Do you match meanness with meanness or kindness? hate with love or hate? If we take the time to learn and not react we will grow into the people the creator of the universe has called us to be. We can grow quite tall spiritually and eventually dwarf the demons of unkindness just by not responding in kind and learn how to deal with situations. The same situations will most likely repeat themselves. Once we learn how to deal with them correctly we should be able to handle them better when they come around again.
