Aikido is one of the oldest forms of martial arts. Founded by Morihei Ueshiba, aikido came about through the studies of many different kinds of traditional martial arts. In fact, is often perceived as a form of exercise or a dance because of some of its forms. It is also viewed by some quarters as some form of martial mesmerism.
Aikido is even confused with Daito Ryu Aikijutsu, it is different in its essence. Still, its founder attributed his creation of aikido to the way, his master Sokaku Takeda, grandmaster of Daito Ryu, opened his eyes to the nature of Budo.
What is aikido?
Despite its many perceived forms, aikido is a Budo or martial arts. It is the refinement of the techniques that are being taught in traditional martial arts and is combined with a philosophy that calls on for the power of the spirit. In its essence, it is a blending of the body and the mind.
Its philosophy is basically derived from the belief that deceptions and trickery or brute force will not make us defeat our opponents. Instead, a concentration that involves the spirit will be enough to strengthen us.
Aikido is also used as a way to discover our true paths so that we can develop our individuality. It also teaches its practitioners to unify their body and their mind so that they will become in harmony with the “universe” and with nature. Their power and their strength will come from this balance and harmony.
The word “universe” in aikido is not some obscure concept that one cannot achieve. It is actually quite concrete and is even within the grasp of the person. In aikido, “universe” can be achieved through actual experiences and everyday life.
Aikido’s movements and techniques are circular. When a circle is created in aikido, the person is said to be protected from a collision from an opposing force. A firm centre, however, is needed to create this circle. An example of a firm circle is a spinning top that turns at a fast speed. Without a firm centre, the speed of movement will only create an imbalance. The stillness of the spinning top while in speeding motion is what is called sumikiri in Aikido language. This is achieved only by what Aikido founder calls “total clarity of mind and body.” However, this is not so easily achieved. It takes a long time of study and practice in order to find this intense concentration and centeredness.
Training is important in aikido as well as concentration because while it may be easy to create a centred being when inside a martial arts gym, the same cannot be said of situations and circumstances outside. It will not be easy to keep one’s composure when faced with extraordinary circumstances. This is actually one of the goals of Aikido training. It aims to teach its practitioners to maintain their composure and their centeredness even in panic situations such as danger and calamities.
One method taught in aikido is to breathe with what is called the seika tanden point. This is the part of the body that can be found two inches below the navel. Controlled breathing is one key to being one with the universe and to centre oneself with nature. When a person learns to do this, he or she will feel the extraordinary calmness that they can use in the practice of aikido.
The 12 steps to acquire mind-power is intended to build positive visuals, acquire mind power and help you achieve your dreams and desires that may be as varied as improving your personality, increasing your wealth, attracting love and making yourself attractive.
Follow these steps I have specifically found to help anyone who is new to Power of Creative Visualization.
Step One: Choose a quiet place, which is free from all distraction, interruption or disturbance. This may even be inside a bus or in your own room. The idea is to be able to concentrate in an environment that you find is suitable. The idea is to be able to concentrate in an environment that you find is suitable. The ideal time, however, I have found to be is, early in the morning or before going to bed. The ideal place, however, may be anywhere as long as you can concentrate.
Step Two: Feel comfortable. Wear loose clothes or else loosen your belt and tie.
Step Three: Be comfortable. Keep your spine straight. Loosen your hands. Relax! This eases your body tension and helps your blood circulate efficiently.
Step Four: Close your eyes. That way your physical world does not interrupt you and you can concentrate on your mental world. But avoid quenching your eyes. Close them gently. In fact, once you focus on your images, you may find your eyes closing naturally.
Step Five: Breath normally. Let your body roll with the rhythm of your breathing. Listen to that rhythm.
Step Six: Now begin the process of visualization. Create the key images of the subject you have chosen. Form the shape. Add color. Build the sound. Sense them! Focus on them. See them as sharply and clearly as you can with your mind's eye.
Step Seven: Put yourself in the images you have created. You must be inside the picture so as to let your subconscious mind know that the image you see that leads to your goal is actually meant for you, and not for anyone else.
Step Eight: Feel the image you have created. Now that you are inside the picture imagine yourself to be leading
the time you see. Feel the environment. Watch how different it feels to lead a life that you had desired. Bring your images alive.
Step Nine: Experience the images with all your emotions. See! Hear! Smell! Feel how it feels to have achieved your goals. Let the excitement and happiness of success flow through you. Let the thrill of success building in you. Feel your success.
Step Ten: Once you have experienced your images with emotion, let your mind go blank. If you hold on to your images for too long, the images might disappear due to overexposure. So, let go of it.
Step Eleven: Create a space in your mind to receive what you desire. Say to yourself that what you desire - like, "I deserve to be healthy", "I deserve to be rich and famous." By doing this, you not only let your subconscious mind support the picture, you literally achieve your success.
Step Twelve: Feel creative while creating the images. I have given you the basic guidelines in the following pages to create visuals that will help you achieve your goals. You may change them accordingly to suit your needs. The more the images meet your specific needs, the more effective they will be.
These then are the twelve important steps to mind-power. Remember, it is better to visualize 2-3 times a day for a shorter duration than to visualize for a long stretch during the day. Doing this, the quality of visuals remain fresh instead of becoming stale and plaid and draining all energy out of you.
Steps one to ten might take you anything between 5-10 minutes. It is better if you do not prolong it. Instead, repeat it at another time of the day.
When you release the image after this brief exercise, your mind will become free of the mind-power you had activated. But your subconscious mind keeps on supporting the image you had seen. This helps your goal and your dreams to be a reality.
The twelve steps to Mind power that I have explained above is the most powerful tool in this world. When you switch on your mind power and extend it to creative visualization for turning your dreams into reality - then, that is exactly what will happen. Your dreams will become reality.
Once you have learned that you have an illness like cancer or heart disease, it can be hard on you mentally and emotionally. At this time, you want to take control of your disease. When you feel like giving up, you only allow the disease to take control of your life. Remember you have people who care about you, and when you give up you give up on them too.
How you can help you live through healthy aging:
The first thing you have to do is to accept the fact that you are sick. This can be hard for you but if you are mentally able, you have to do this. Once you accepted it is easier to move ahead and take the next step. Acceptance will help you to better understand your disease. Remember, you are not the disease the illnesses is something that is reducing your abilities to function healthily in life. Still, you can function healthily by taking necessary actions.
You can get the information off the Internet if you would like to learn more about your condition. Learning will help you by allowing you to understand your disease. In fact, learning will help you to find interventions, preventions, and perhaps cures for your disease. You can talk to your doctor as well. Learn what you can from your family doctor. Once you have accepted what you have and have learned about it then you can move on to the next step. Which is to, to live your life to the fullest? Do what you can do while you can, go see places that you would not normally.
How will my disease affect me emotionally and mentally?
It depends on the disease, but most illnesses we can safely tell you causes depression. You may feel like being alone. At times, you will endure mood swings and not feel like having anyone near you. You may feel hopeless.
How would I get a second opinion?
Getting a second opinion is always important if you’ve been diagnosed with any disease. You can start with talking to your family doctor and see what he/she may think. Although a second opinion is good for you to have if you are not feeling comfortable, you want to continue seeking advice. It is in your best interest to find a qualified doctor to give you a second opinion. Sadly, you may have to visit a few doctors to find one that makes you feel comfortable.
What can I do to help myself?
We all have the power to help ourselves. We can take action by eating right. We can improve health by taking vitamins and supplements intended to help fight disease and make you stronger. You want to socialize and avoid isolating you. Be social and don’t stay in your room crying to yourself. Doctors persistently ask their patients to express their feelings. Expressing your feelings is helping you to fight for healthy aging.
Make sure you make all your family doctors appointments. You want to stay on your toes when dealing with a disease. Visiting your doctor regularly will help you stay in control. When you feel blue, walk. If not outside maybe, you can walk around your house. Walking will help you to stay strong.
You may benefit from participating with a support group of some sort. We all need support; yet having someone that understands your disease makes better friendship. At meetings, you can vent your emotions. What a wonderful way to follow doctors orders, thus expressing your emotions. You also want to consider friends who will allow you to express your emotions.
If you don’t want to go out and be around your friends then why not get a pet as a friend they can help you through this as well they will walk with you and play with you and be your best friend through all of this.
This running program consists of three main parts, first fat burning this program will for sure burn fat. Second endurance you will have a much better breathing pattern during and after this workout over the next 30 days. Third, the shape of your body will change regardless of whatever it looks like now, after 30 days you will see a noticeable difference. Every day is a 30-minute workout to be complete 4 - 6 times per week. So you will need a stopwatch or a watch if you miss more than three days per week you will need to go back and repeat that week. But whatever you do do not give up.
DAY #1 Though DAY #4
#1) Walk for five minutes, and then jog for 1 minute
#2) walk for five minutes, and then jog for two minutes
#3) walk for five minutes, and then jog for two minutes
#4) walk for four minutes, and then SPRINT for 8 seconds
#5 walk for two minutes to cool down.
DAY 5 Through DAY 9
#1) walk for four minutes, and then jog for two minutes
#2) walk for four minutes, and then jog for three minutes
#3) walk for three minutes, and then jog for three minutes
#4) walk for three minutes, and then jog for three minutes
#5) walk for two minutes, and then SPRINT for 10 seconds
#6) walk three minutes for cool down.
DAY 10 Through DAY 13
#1) walk for three minutes, then jog for three minutes
#2) walk for two minutes, then SPRINT for 15 seconds
#3) walk for two minutes, then SPRINT for 15 seconds
#4) walk for two minutes, then SPRINT for 10 seconds
#5) walk for two minutes, then SPRINT for 10 seconds
#6) walk for two minutes, then jog for three minutes
#7) walk for two minutes, then jog for three minutes
#8) walk for two minutes, then jog for two minutes
#9) walk two minutes for cool down
DAY 14 Through DAY 17
#1) walk for three minutes, then jog for six minutes
#2) walk for three minutes, then jog for four minutes
#3) walk for two minutes, then jog for three minutes
#4) walk for two minutes, then jog for three minutes
#5) walk for one minute, then jog for one minute
#6) walk for two minute cool down
DAY 18 Through 21
#1) walk for three minutes, then jog for eight minutes
#2) walk for three minutes, then jog for six minutes
#3) walk for three minutes, then SPRINT for 15 seconds
#4) walk for two minutes, then SPRINTS for 15 seconds
#5) walk for two minutes, then SPRINT for 10 seconds
#6) walk for two minute cool down
DAY 22 Through 24
#1) walk for two minutes, then jog for ten minutes
#2) walk for two minutes, then jog for eight minutes
#3) walk for one minutes, then jog for two minutes
#4) walk for one minute, then jog for one minute
#5) walk for two minutes cool down
DAY 25 AND DAY 26
#1) walk for one minute, then jog for sixteen minutes
#2) walk for two minutes, then jog for ten minutes
#3) walk for as long as you need for cool down
DAY 27 AND 28
#1) walk for one minute, then jog for twenty minutes
#2) walk for two minutes, then SPRINT for 15 seconds
#3) walk for one minute, then SPRINT for 15 seconds
#4) walk for one minute, then jog for three minutes
#5) walk for two minutes for cool down
DAY 29
JOG FOR 30 STRAIGHT MINUTES EASY do not over do it just a nice easy pace.
DAY 30
JOG FOR 30 STRAIGHT MINUTES AGAIN BUT TIME PUT MORE INTO IT, AT THIS POINT YOU SHOULD BE AT THE THREE MILE IN 30 MINUTES.
Dale Dupree Brown, Copywrite (7) 2007
Former pro boxer and Delaware state champion, who enjoys helping others obtain their goals in any sport or personal activities. He has trained many athletes from track, football, boxing and has always enjoyed it. Anyone who desires their own personal daily workout plan can join our membership a or email me at davaldupree@yahoo.com include your age, height, weight, and your desires, and date you plan to reach your desires.
Zentao symbol as an evolution of the Tao (Yin Yang) and the Five Elements of Feng Shui.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Colors affect people in different ways. By using the right colors, you can strengthen the elements of Feng Shui. These wonderful colors are divided into cool which is Yin and warm which is Yang. There must a balance at all times because everything possesses these two components.
Aside from Yin colors being cool, it also represents healing and relaxation. To give you an idea, here are the colors.
• Blue has yin energy because it reflects love. It also creates a feeling of peace and trust. Since it is the color of both the sea and sky, Feng Shui experts associate it with adventure and exploration. Among the different shades of blue, navy blue is the color that best describes intellect and wisdom.
• Black symbolizes money and income. It is great for those who are focusing on their careers especially when this color is combined with metal. In Feng Shui, it is the color of emotional protection and power.
• Next is purple that lies at the end of the spectrum. In Feng Shui, it is associated with spiritual awareness as it is excellent for physical and mental healing.
• White represents confidence, poise and purity. Feng Shui experts use this color in combination with gold and silver as it generates a calm atmosphere.
• You also have green which is represents balancing, normalizing, nurturing and refreshing. It is the color of balance, harmony, healing and health in the emotional, physical and spiritual aspect of things.
Yang colors tend to be fire and wood elements. It is these colors that provide you with positive energy or enthusiasm and here are the colors.
• Yellow represents cheerfulness and friendliness. However, too much exposure to this color can be bad because it often leads to anxiety.
• Orange helps you strengthen your concentration especially in times when your creativity runs dry.
• Tan or being represents the colors of the earth. It portrays neatness and helps conceal emotion.
• Lavender is the color of sexual indecision. Feng Shui experts believe this color suggests an ability to be manipulated.
• Maroon is one of the shades of red. In Feng Shui, this represents indecisiveness.
There are other colors aside from those mentioned that represent Yin and Yang in Feng Shui. If you want to know more about it, do some research as this is written in books and also posted online.
As mentioned, these colors should be used in different combinations with other Feng Shui elements in order to balance the Chi. These elements are namely earth, water, fire, wind, and metal.
Each of the colors above represents one of these elements and by making sure there is a balance, you will be able to bring prosperity wherever you need it like in your home or for your business.
For instance, if you want balance in the bathroom, you shouldn’t add the color black as there is enough water already there. Doing so will cause an imbalance and surely you wouldn’t want that to happen.
The wonderful colors of Feng Shui can be used to your advantage depending on the energy you need. For you to achieve prosperity, you have to bring them into your home or office not only in the colors of the wall but also the furniture and décor as well.
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.
