Traditional Chinese medicine is the idea that everything is interconnected in one’s body and in the universe. Through this concept, there was a development of the way in which the system could be divided. The understanding of this system is what allowed one to practice alternatives towards health and balanced energy.
The Zang-Fu theory is the concept that the functions of the different organs interact with each other. This interaction allows them to function in different ways and also balances out the health of different individuals. When one’s internal organs are completely balanced, they have reached complete health because their energy is able to flow naturally and without any blocks.
From this major concept, the internal organs are divided into various categories. The first set of categories is the Zang, which are the Yin organs. This includes the heart, liver, spleen, lungs, kidneys, and pericardium. The Fu is the Yang organs and includes the intestines, gall bladder, urinary bladder and stomach. Each of these organs will be paired together; meaning that one Yang organ corresponds to one Yin organ.
Through each of these categorizations, the organs are able to correspond and function by relating to each other. When these organs are not functioning properly together, it will be the cause of dysfunction in the body. Beyond this, it is the functioning of these organs that directly link to the way that the mind and the spirit function together. The Zang organs will be directly linked with specific emotions as well as senses. The Fu system is the opposite of this because it is linked to the hollow system and digestion.
The combination of all of the elements of the body is the major concept in the Zang Fu theory. By combining the internal organs and discovering the relationships that they have between each other, one is able to find the necessary answers to healing. Chinese medicine, through combining all of the elements is able to work towards an internal healing that leads to external functions of health.
English: Candle factory and shop, Denmark (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Making candles can be great fun. It is very exciting to decide what type of candle to make and get your supplies. However, some individuals quickly become disappointed and frustrated with the process and give up. There are some common problems that beginners experience with candle making. Most of them have quick and easy solutions. It is recommended that all beginners start with the basic candle making process. This gives you the opportunity to learn the basics, then you can move on to making the types of candles you really want to.
One secret to making great candles is to use quality products. In general, candle making supplies are inexpensive. If the wax you purchase is of poor quality, then it is never going to make quality candles. Heating the wax to the proper temperature is very important. The temperature will change depending on the type of candle you are making with it. If the wax isn’t hot enough it won’t form correctly. Likewise, wax that is too hot will lose luster and won’t be as sturdy once it cools.
Have you ever made a beautiful candle, but when you lit it the room filled with smoke rather than the fragrance of the candle? This problem has to do with your wick, it is too long. Simply cut them shorter for future candles. You can snip the tips of the candles you have already created and this should remedy the situation.
Some candles burn and smell great, but they look ugly after a few uses with a crater in the middle of the candle while the edges of the candle jar haven’t even been touched. This is the result of a wick that isn’t wide enough. It isn’t much you can do for candles you have already made except melt the wax in them and start over. You can purchase a wider wick or braid three together to get a good thickness. The wider the candle jar, the wider you need your wick to be for the candle to burn evenly.
Cooling candles is an area of trouble for many beginners. Don’t rush the cooling process or you will damage the hardness of the candle. Forcing the candle to cool will also result in bubbles forming in the top and middle of the candle. While it won’t be a physical defect, the melting wax will go into these bubbles when you have the candle lit resulting in the wick going out. Candles should be allowed to cool in an area where they won’t be moved until completely cool. The area needs to be flat and out of direct sunlight. You will also want to make sure there aren’t any heating or cooling vents in the cooling area.
If you notice that your cooled candle isn’t as appealing as you’d like because the wax pulled away from the glass jar in some areas, try heating your jars in the microwave for a minute or two right before you fill them. This will help the wax adhere to it correctly with a very smooth look all the way around the jar.
It is important to remember that candle making involves some basic concepts. It will take a few tries to complete the steps properly, but give it some time. You will have to experiment to find the methods that work best in your work environment to make the candles you want. It is suggested that you only make a few candles at a time to keep from wasting money on supplies while you are learning. Make sure the finished product doesn’t have any burning issues with the wick or bubbles. If it does, simply melt the wax again and try it once more. Once you have mastered the basics of candle making, you can experiment with different types of candles. The internet is a great place to find candle making tips as well as troubleshooting for your candle making problems.
Ayurveda is perhaps the oldest system of health care in the world and originates from the Indian subcontinent.
Ayurveda is based on scientific principles of diagnosis and treatment. It differs from conventional medicine in the basic principles of investigation and assigning causes to processes rather than specific areas of physiology.
Ayurveda has been a vogue since 5000 years ago. Our Vedas have been repeated references to the efficacy of Ayurveda as a science of healthy living. The western world is now realizing the value of Ayurveda in treating Chronic diseases like Arthritis, Paralysis, Stroke, Neurological disorders etc. Even WHO has given a high rating for Ayurveda system.
It differs from conventional medicine in the basic principles of investigation and assigning causes to processes rather than specific areas of physiology. The increasing awareness of herbal medicines in Western markets such as USA, UK, Canada and Japan and the technological advancements in biotech industry were two major reasons which compelled us to offer a platform like this.
Here are some Important Herbs and their Uses:
Ashwagandha ( Withania Somnifera), ( Winter Cherry): Traditionally, Ashwagandha has been used in many ways--as a sedative, a diuretic, a rejuvenating tonic, an anti-inflammatory agent, and as an "adaptogen" (endurance enhancer). Many Western herbalists refer to this herb as "Ayurvedic ginseng" because of its reputation for increasing energy, strength, and stamina, and for its ability to relieve stress. It is especially beneficial in stress related disorders such as arthritis, hypertension, diabetes, general debility, etc. It has also shown impressive results when used as stimulants for the immune system.
Amla ( Emblica officinalis), ( Indian Goosebery): Amla contains the highest amount of Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid), Phyllembin, Phyllemblic acid, Gallic acid, Ellagic acid in natural form and Cytokin like substance identified as Zeatin, Zriboside, Z nucleotide, Tannins 30%. It is one of the strongest rejuvenatives in Indian pharmacopeia. It contains 30 times the amount of Vitamin C found in oranges. Its antibacterial, carminative, hypoglycemic, stomachic, Hypotensive and astringent action prevents infection, helps in healing of ulcers, treatment of jaundice, dyspepsia and cough and controls hyperacidity. Alma is a good Cardio Tonic and its mild stimulant action on heart helps to control blood pressure. The use of Indian Gooseberry enhances the antidiabetic action of Karela. Phyllanthus Emblica is a very good hair tonic.
Brahmi (Bacopa Monniera): Aside from increasing intellectual and cognitive function, Brahmi induces a sense of calm and peace in its users. It is unique in its ability to invigorate mental processes whilst reducing the effects of stress and nervous anxiety. This makes Brahmi extremely applicable in highly stressful work or study environments where clarity of thought is as important as being able to work under pressure. Many people have the intelligence to perform to strict standards but lack the composure and self-confidence to reach them. Additionally, Brahmi helps soothe the restlessness and distraction that nervousness causes. Brahmi is ideal for students and workers faced with this problem.
Shallaki ( Boswellia Serrata): Today its major use is as an anti-inflammatory agent for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, low back pain, myositis, fibrositis, and osteoarthritis. Experimental and clinical usage of boswella indicates it has none of the side effects on blood pressure, heart rate of the gastric irritation and ulcers associated with many anti-inflammatory and antiarthritic drugs. It is now an approved herbal medicine in India for use against osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, soft tissue rheumatism, low back pain, myositis and fibrositis. In the United States, physicians are giving boswella high marks for effectiveness. Dr. E. W. McDonagh, a Kansas City physician, has reported success among some 350 patients suffering from a variety of advanced muscular and skeletal conditions for which other treatments had failed to help.
Karela ( Bitter Gourd), ( Bitter Melon), ( Momordica charantia): Bitter Melon, also known as Karela, Momordica Charantia or Bitter Gourd is a herb that helps regulate blood sugar levels and keeps body functions operating normally. It contains Gurmarin, a polypeptide considered to be similar to bovine insulin, which has been shown in experimental studies to achieve a positive sugar regulating effect by suppressing the neural response to sweet taste stimuli. Karela's principle constituents are lectins, charantin and momordicine. The fruits have long been used in India as a folk remedy for diabetes mellitus. Lectins from the bitter gourd have shown significant antilipolytic and lipogenic activities.
Shilajit (Asphaltum): This is Shilajit, one of Ayurveda's most potent and unique rejuvenatives. The ancient medical literature attributes many health benefits to Shilajit known as "conqueror of mountains and destroyer of weakness." It has been said that there is hardly any curable disease which cannot be assisted with the aid of Shilajit. Shilajit has been used historically for general physical strengthening, anti-aging, blood sugar stabilization, libido, injury healing, urinary tract rejuvenation, enhanced brain functioning potency, bone healing, kidney rejuvenation, immune system Strengthening, arthritis, hypertension, obesity and much other application for numerous conditions.
Garlic ( Lasuna), ( Allium sativum): The platelet and hypolipidemic activities of Lasuna ensures smooth coronary function. Garlic is regarded as one of the most effective remedies to lower blood pressure. The pressure and tension are reduced because it has the power to ease the spasm of the small arteries. It also slows the pulse and modifies the heart rhythm, besides relieving the symptoms of dizziness, shortness of breath and the formation of gas within the digestive track. It has an antiseptic effect and is an excellent remedy for infectious diseases and inflammations of the stomach and intestine. Human population studies show that eating garlic regularly reduces the risk of esophageal, stomach, and colon cancer. This is partly due to garlic's ability to reduce the formation of carcinogenic compounds.
Triphala: Triphala, a cornerstone of Ayurvedic medicine, is a composite herbal preparation containing equal proportions of the fruits of three myrobalans, Emblica Officinalis, Terminalia chebula and Terminalia bellirica. When consumed for a long period, it helps reduce excess weight. It promotes good colon health and acts as a laxative without causing cramps or irritation. It gently stimulates the intestinal walls and restores tone to the colon, thus helping in the elimination process, providing a colon cleansing effect. When consumed for a long period, it helps reduce excess weight. It promotes good colon health and acts as a laxative without causing cramps or irritation. It gently stimulates the intestinal walls and restores tone to the colon, thus helping in the elimination process, providing a colon cleansing effect.
Guggulu: ( Bedellium), ( COMMIPHORA MUKUL): Studies show that a 14-27% of LDL cholesterol and 22-30% of triglycerides levels were reduced when guggul was given to men and women with high cholesterol for 12 weeks with no change in diet or exercise. Research with laboratory animals suggests guggul may help enhance thyroid function. Since the thyroid gland produces hormones that are needed to regulate metabolism, it can help in weight loss. Studies show guggul may change thyroid hormone metabolism, increase levels of circulating T3, or triiodothyronine, a thyroxine metabolite known to raise overall metabolism, which in turn increases fat burning. Since guggul supports atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), which may impede blood flow to and from the penis, guggul may possibly be the treatment for impotence many men are looking for.
Tulsi ( Holy Basil), ( Tulasi): Tulsi has antioxidant properties, and helps boost the body's ability to fight off damaging free radicals, which have been linked to disease and aging. It is an adaptogen that helps the body fight the effects of ongoing stress and also balances the mind, nerves and emotions. Tulsi maintains the health of the throat chest and lungs. In fact, it helps protect the entire respiratory tract. It is an anti-inflammatory. A herb that promotes optimum respiratory support. Tulasi has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, expectorant properties and is useful in respiratory tract infections. It helps during respiratory stress.
Neem (AZADIRACHTA INDICA): Neem effectively kills the bacteria that cause Acne and studies prove that Neem will reduce inflammation, even the inflammation produced by Acne. In the case of eczema, clinical studies demonstrate that even the application of weaker Neem leaf extracts effectively cured acute conditions of eczema, what to speak of the fresh cold pressed oil with its high concentration of active ingredients. Modern clinical studies have identified a number of compounds in the Neem tree that effectively regulate immune system functions. Whether drinking a simple cup of tea out of the leaves or taking extracts of the Neem leaf, Neem significantly and consistently reduced insulin requirements for nonketotic, insulin fast, and insulin sensitive forms of Diabetes. The pain, inflammation, and swelling of the joints in arthritis can be greatly reduced by different compounds in Neem
Arjuna (TERMINALIA ARJUNA): Arjun improves cardiac muscle function and pumping action of the heart. Scientific studies have shown Arjun to be very effective when used regularly over a period of time for the treatment of angina, coronary artery disease, heart failure, edema, and possibly hypercholesterolemia. Studies have also shown Arjun to have positive effects in the treatment of gonorrhea. Externally, this herb has been used to treat acne, blemishes, wounds, dysentery, and diarrhea.
The descendant is directly across from the ascendant (As) in the chart, in the three o'clock position (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Technically speaking, your rising sign, or ascendant, reflects the zodiac sign that was ascending on the Eastern horizon at the moment you took your first breath in this world. This is why an exact birth time is so vital to finding your accurate rising sign. Located on the cusp of the first house of your astrological chart -- or at the nine o'clock position -- the rising sign can exert an influence almost as powerful as your Sun and Moon signs.
If you were to think of your Sun sign as your soul -- your inner personality and potential -- and your Moon sign as your heart -- your emotional core -- then you could say that your rising sign is your physical self or the face you present to the world. For example, your Sun sign might be Taurus, your rising sign could very well be Gemini. While you're feeling laid-back, others will tend to see you as a ball of nervous energy and cerebral wit.
At times, your rising sign may act as a mask, hiding some aspect of your inner self you don't feel like revealing. Your Ascendant sign describes your temperament, your outward mannerisms and behavior, the personality you put on public display. It is the part of yourself you are most willing for other people to see in casual, impersonal situations. Changes here will explain why even people born on the same day as you will have very different personalities, different strengths and interests, and different life experiences.
The Ascendant is also called the Rising Sign of a person's chart. Astrologers use the two terms interchangeably. It is literally the sign that was rising on the Eastern horizon of the sky at the time you were born in the place where you were born. This is why it is essential to have both a birthplace and a birth time in order to cast a completely valid Natal Chart.
Illustration of bergamot orange (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Bergamot Essential Oil is derived from Citrus bergamia of the Genus "Citrus" and the family "Rutaceae". The Bergamot fruit is roughly the size of a regular orange but with the strong yellow colour of a lemon.
The fruit has a very obvious odour which cannot be mistaken. It provides the familiar smell of Early Grey Tea and has several medicinal qualities. I can also remember having Marmalade at an Italian friends house made with a Bergamot base.
Second to Early Grey Tea it most likely recognised as an Aromatherapy Oil.
The Extraction process
Bergamot Oil can be extracted by Cold pressing or steam extraction. I always consider Cold pressing to be the best extraction method. Cold pressing is a method of extraction of citrus oils such as orange, lemon, grapefruit and bergamot. This is the freshest and purest form of extraction but the shelf life of oils extracted in this manner is reduced.
Uses as an Essential Oil
Bergamot Essential is a must have in your Aromatherapy kit. Its uses are many and varied.
Try some of these:
Bergamot oil when mixed with other citruses like orange or grapefruit oil makes a welcoming air freshener. Placed in a bowl near the front door or near a window. Ensure placement allows the scent to drift around the room and not lose out the door or window.
Bergamot oil is an ideal addition to an office environment. It has been known to have a calming effect and has been used by those who are depressed or anxious for its calming effects.
Put half a dozen drops of Bergamot oil in a bowl with hot water. Breathing the vapours may assist in the prevention and treatment of Acne and other skin conditions. Bergamot oils Anti-bacterial properties may assist in the treatment of Acne.
Bergamot oil has anti-bacterial properties. Citrus based oil such as Bergamot are excellent for use as cleaners and Disinfectant.
Adding a few drops of bergamot oil to your regular bath will help prevent skin born infections and may aid in the prevention and reduction of eczema.
Bergamot oil can also make an excellent Deodorant.
Precautions
Essential oils have many benefits and can aid in the prevention or healing of many complaints. Every individual is different. Some essential oils can be toxic. Some oils must never be ingested while others require limited exposure to the sun due to phototoxicity. Read the label and ask your supplier if you are in doubt of the safest use for any particular oil. Not just the one in this article.
Is there a connection between Asthma and Diet? Yes. What you consume very much so affects the functioning of your respiratory organs-it affects everything. Consequently, if one is seeking to control asthma symptoms and attacks, this is the one-factor one has to strongly consider.
According to medical research, Asthma is an allergic inflammation of the lungs. Moreover, an asthma attack can be triggered by chemicals, air pollutants, pollens, molds, dust, animal dander, foods, exercise, and even temperature changes.
However, friends, speaking from my experiences with asthma from the age of 7 till I was about 20, the one factor I think is the most influential negatively on one’s respiratory and overall health, will be what one consumes.
This is a fact that has been in effect in several programs aimed at correcting respiratory health such as the "Breath Retaining Program for Asthmatics" developed by the Russian, Dr. Buteyko. Within weeks of adhering to his advice, many a chronic asthmatic has been able to give up the use of Ventolin inhalers.
Now, I never had to use his program; however, in my quest to get rid of acne, I stumbled on the dietetic change that miraculously cured my asthma, halitosis and overall lethargy. Being amazed at how this change in eating habits worked for not one, but all of my health challenges, was what made me research and discover that such a program as his even exists.
“Well, what is the dietetic suggestion?” one might ask. Quite simply, it is to give up all processed foods and animal products such as meat, milk, eggs and the like from your diet-plain and simple.
Two quotes come to mind in advocating this: “You are what you consume” and “Let your foods be your medicine and your medicine your foods”
Now, I ask you a question: “What is the main physical emission that occurs during an asthma attack with all the wheezing and coughs?” It is mucus.
All the foods listed above are highly mucus forming and upon digestion (if they ever do get digested that is), they leave one with an excessive lining of mucus and slime. Keep in mind that the lungs are the most important excretory organs when you add its functioning to this fact, it becomes apparent that the consumption of these substances is really only wreaking havoc on the body.
In addition, from my own experience, DO NOT CONSUME LIQUIDS WITH YOUR MEALS AT ANY TIME. This inhibits digestion by diluting the necessary juices in your stomach designated for that purpose. As a result, it hinders the much-needed expansion of the diaphragm and consequently a constriction of the lungs- the bellows of life-giving air- which results in the wheezing sounds any asthma patient is familiar with.
So what should one eat as an asthma patient?
Well, the foods that are the exact opposite, mucus binding or non-mucus forming foods.
These are quite simply fruits and vegetables. Make sure they are organic if possible or at least not in the list of the “dirty dozen” i.e. the ones most contaminated with pesticides such as Apples, Mexican Melons, Grapes etc…
Trust me on this; I’m speaking from experience, you will do very well to avoid the fruits in that list when it comes to asthma. Nonetheless, you’d still be much better off steering clear of those food substances labeled as mucus-forming earlier on.
Other minor factors will still come into play in regards to a natural asthma treatment, however, diet is arguably THE factor to monitor the most.
Remember what you eat affects how you breathe…and how you breathe affects how you live.
Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) was conceived of by the French engineer Jacques D'Arsonval in 1881. However, at the time of this writing, the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii is home to the only operating experimental OTEC plant on the face of the earth. OTEC is a potential alternative energy source that needs to be funded and explored much more than it presently is.
The great hurdle to get over with OTEC implementation on a wide and practically useful level is cost. It is difficult to get the costs down to a reasonable level because of the processes presently utilized to drive OTEC. Ocean thermal energy would be very clean burning and not add pollutants into the air. However, as it presently would need to be set up with our current technologies, OTEC plants would have the capacity for disrupting and perhaps damaging the local environment.
There are three kinds of OTEC.
“Closed Cycle OTEC” uses a low-boiling point liquid such as, for example, propane to act as an intermediate fluid. The OTEC plant pumps the warm sea water into the reaction chamber and boils the intermediate fluid. This results in the intermediate fluid's vapor pushing the turbine of the engine, which thus generates electricity. The vapor is then cooled down by putting in cold sea water.
“Open Cycle OTEC” is not that different from closed cycling, except in the Open Cycle there is no intermediate fluid. The sea water itself is the driver of the turbine engine in this OTEC format. Warm sea water found on the surface of the ocean is turned into a low-pressure vapor under the constraint of a vacuum. The low-pressure vapor is released in a focused area and it has the power to drive the turbine. To cool down the vapor and create desalinated water for human consumption, the deeper ocean's cold waters are added to the vapor after it has generated sufficient electricity.
“Hybrid Cycle OTEC” is really just a theory for the time being. It seeks to describe the way that we could make maximum usage of the thermal energy of the ocean's waters. There are actually two sub-theories to the theory of Hybrid Cycling. The first involves using a closed cycling to generate electricity. This electricity is in turn used to create the vacuum environment needed for open cycling. The second component is the integration of two open cyclings such that twice the amount of desalinated, potable water is created that with just one open cycle.
In addition to being used for producing electricity, a closed cycle OTEC plant can be utilized for treating chemicals. OTEC plants, both open cycling and close cycling kinds, are also able to be utilized for pumping up cold deep sea water which can then be used for refrigeration and air conditioning. Furthermore, during the moderation period when the sea water is surrounding the plant, the enclosed area can be used for mariculture and aquaculture projects such as fish farming. There is clearly quite an array of products and services that we could derive from this alternative energy source.
Aloe vera is known for its many health benefits and is widely acknowledged for its use in helping to improve the appearance of the skin, treat digestive problems, and boost your immune system and well-being. However, a lot of people are unaware of the fact that aloe vera can actually be used for dental care as well.
Oral dental care is very important because as we all know you only get one set of (real) teeth in this lifetime so you have to look after them. You should, therefore, brush your teeth twice daily and floss your teeth and gums regularly as well. You should also consider using mouthwash as additional protection against bacteria and plaque. Plus of course, you should limit the number of sugary foods you eat and visit your dentist every six months for a check-up.
These are the traditional ways of looking after your teeth but aloe vera, although not clinically proven, is regarded by many people, including some dentists, as being useful in the fight against tooth decay as well.
The mouth is a breeding ground for bacteria which can be a major problem if preventative measures are not taken because these bacteria can attack the teeth and gums, and can lead to bad breath and other specific conditions such as gingivitis, stomatitis and periodontitis. Aloe vera, however, has many anti-bacterial qualities which is why it is said to be very effective in fighting the bacteria and preventing these problems.
Aloe vera is most effective when working from inside the body so specific types of products such as aloe vera juices and pills are probably the most effective at fighting bacteria. Of course, you wouldn't necessarily buy these products with the sole purpose of looking after your teeth, because it can get quite expensive when used with all the other preventative measures you may be taking, but you will benefit from the other health benefits of aloe vera as well by taking these products. So as well as looking after your teeth, you can help improve your skin's appearance, aid digestion, and boost your immune system and general well-being at the same time.
If you do want to use aloe vera solely for your teeth, you can try using one of the many kinds of toothpaste and tooth gels that are on the market. These will all contain the aloe vera ingredient specifically with the sole purpose of protecting your teeth from bacteria.
Whichever aloe vera product you use, it's clear that aloe vera's anti-bacterial qualities can help to fight the onset of tooth decay and bacteria.
One of the most difficult things that we have to deal with on a regular basis are problems with our weight. For many of us, this is been a problem that we have been dealing with for most of our lives. It may have been that we were even heavy when we were children and because of habits that we have had since we were young, it may be difficult for us not to overeat. Add to that the general lifestyle that most of us lead which is busy and full of sugary snacks and fast food and it's little wonder that we have a problem with our weight.
One thing that can help with weight loss and suppressing our appetite is the ancient Chinese art of acupuncture. Although most people think of acupuncture as being something that helps with general health and the relief of pain, it can also do a lot to help us with our weight loss efforts. It is true that acupuncture is a great method of working with our health naturally but, isn't taking care of our weight also a part of our natural health? Let's take a look at acupuncture and weight loss and see what it can do for you.
Acupuncture is a way of bringing our body back into balance, a natural balance that our body needs. According to traditional Chinese medicine, all of us have channels in our body which funnel energy from one part of our body into another. If our body is in balance, we are able to enjoy a natural flow of this energy, otherwise known as Chi. Acupuncture is able to manipulate the flow of energy that is within our body through the insertion of hair-thin needles. If this energy is disrupted in some cases, it can help us by suppressing the energy as well. It does this through acupuncture and also helps by suppressing our appetite.
Many people who go in for acupuncture for pain or general healing may also be able to enjoy the benefits of a suppressed appetite through acupuncture as well. Your acupuncturist will be able to give you assistance and advice as far as this is concerned. What you will probably find, however, is that by reducing your appetite through acupuncture, you are able to eat less on a regular basis and maintain a healthier weight.
Flexibility is considered to be a “by-product” of Yoga practice but in the case of it is often “downplayed” or taken for granted. Since most Chair Yoga enthusiasts are seniors, the true value of flexibility is mobility.
When you consider that mobility for seniors can be the difference between dependence and independence, flexibility is now of extreme value.
The following is an observation I have made after working with groups from assisted living complexes, adult day care centers, nursing homes, and seniors centers. The average mobile senior citizen is much more flexible in the hips, spine, wrists, and shoulders than his or her dependent counterpart.
Just crossing the legs can be difficult for the clients I work within a nursing home. Students in Chair Yoga classes learn a variety of exercises that will “free up” many of the major joints. Many students also remark how pain, from a variety of ailments, is much more manageable, after practicing Chair Yoga.
Increased range of motion makes a difference when reaching for anything. It also helps to prevent injuries that can occur from strain or a possible fall. If a senior falls, there is certainly the potential that the results could be life-threatening.
Chair Yoga offers a significant number of balancing exercises. Although balance can be affected by medication, inner ear problems, and more, many seniors show much improvement in balancing their bodies within weeks of their first Chair Yoga class. Therefore, flexibility and balance are a significant part of an injury prevention package that can improve, or enhance, the quality of life for seniors. This fact has been realized by seniors who flock to Chair Yoga classes on a daily, or weekly, basis.
Most of us realize that physical conditioning is not the only factor involved independence. There are a number of disabling diseases that can affect any one of us and have nothing to do with a lack of flexibility. Lack of flexibility is not the single overriding factor involved in independence for seniors.
However, it is a fact that less mobile, and frail, seniors will become confined.
Hence, most seniors should make an effort to stay flexible, for what is ultimately their own dignity at stake. You could look at your physical condition as an insurance policy for an independent living. After all, who really wants to impose on their children or relatives for the sake of existence?
Pages of the Book of Shadows. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Many people in all parts of the world believe in the power of magic. In fact, some even practice a certain kind of magic or witchcraft as a daily ritual. Now, you shouldn’t jump to any conclusions because things may not be as you assume. I think that far too many people make assumptions about things they don't know and understand. We could do well without this human quality. If people would have simply taken some time to investigate and understand things better, then many deaths could have been prevented in the past.
Anyway, let's go ahead and focus on the present and future. A text entitled the "Book of Shadows" that may aid you in this process. Of course, it all depends on what it is you're open to. Children always seem to ask adults a lot of questions that are difficult to answer. The answers to these questions may lie in a school textbook, in the Bible, and other times they may be discovered in the Book of Shadows.
A few individuals in Salem, Oregon harbor a serious interest in the Book of Shadows. This book is regarded as an incomparable piece of literature by these people. To be honest, I had never read this mysterious book. I recall the sequel to "The Blair Witch Project" when I think Book of Shadows. Have you seen this movie? If you haven’t, then let me inform you that it was a step up from the original.
The first movie was basically a bad home video that everyone got all hyped up about. I think that it was utterly ridiculous. There were more shots of the dark ground than anything else. Many glib individuals actually thought it was real. It was real, and yet the cast was at the movie awards. In my opinion, the second one was more like a real scary movie than the original.
You'll enjoy checking out the Book of Shadows if you wish to dabble in witchcraft, sorcery or black magic. You can easily access this book by getting on the web. These days, there are tons of books online that you can check out. See if you like the Book of Shadows first before you buy it.
Morgan Hamilton offers expert advice and great tips regarding all aspects concerning Book of Shadows. Article Directory: Article Dashboard
Don Ed Hardy, fondly known as the "The Godfather of Modern Tattoo", has undoubtedly revolutionized the way the world sees Tattoo Art. Over a decade ago, Tattoo Art seemed fit only for the skin of bikers and tough guys, but that is certainly no longer the case. Don Ed Hardy started out his career using traditional methods of painting before he became a Tattoo artist, and with the initiative of the impressive Frenchman Christian Audigier, Don Ed Hardy's art is much sought after.
Don Ed Hardy was born in Iowa in 1945, but he and his family moved to Costa Mesa, California less than a year after he was born. He is known to be the first American tattoo artist to incorporate Japanese aesthetics and techniques to his designs. His love for tattooing was evident, even as a little boy. He would copy and design his own fake tattoos. It was only during his high school years that his interest in tattoo art took a backseat to his love for Kustom Kulture.
After high school, he received his degree in printmaking from the San Francisco Art Institute and worked for several tattoo shops later accepting an invitation to study the art of Japanese Tattooing, a move that has undoubtedly affected his art. Upon his return to America, he worked for another tattoo studio before opening his own - Realistic.
Ed Hardy and his wife are responsible for several tattoo publications notable for their quality. He has been concentrating on non-tattoo based art forms and opened Tattoo City, which is a multi-artist tattoo studio.
With the help of Christian Audigier, Ed Hardy has become a household name that is no longer singly denoted to tattoos. Christian Audigier, brilliant in his own right, is accredited as the man who brought tattoo art into the world of fashion. What Christian did for Ed Hardy's art is comparable to what Tamara Mellon did for Jimmy Choo. You cannot go anywhere nowadays without running into a tattoo art embellished article ranging from Trucker Caps to watches and the Ed Hardy Brand is foremost in this field. Ed HardyTrucker Caps and shirts are the most notable in the clothing line with fans ranging from Ashton to Madonna.
Most of us do. The intimate touch of another soul is the most powerful antidote for the all-too-human experience of aloneness. It may be the most compelling and pleasurable experience there is.
So why do we spend so much of our time and energy avoiding intimacy by defending ourselves, being angry, critical, closed and judgmental – in short, blocking the experience that we most deeply want?
DEFENDING THE EGO GETS IN THE WAY OF LOVE.
The answer is that we are wired to constantly reinforce our limited ego-based identity, our sense of who we are.
This ego-based identity plays a very important role in human life, but it does not have the power to love. Ego is all about the self. It can and does experience need, and need is often easy to mistake for love. And it can certainly love how another person makes it feel.
But these things aren’t true love. True love and intimacy don’t come from the ego. In order to experience the power of true love, you have to get in touch with a different part of yourself – the part that lies beyond ego.
THE TRUE NATURE OF EGO.
This process is easier when you understand the true nature of your ego-based identity: It doesn’t really exist.
Although it functions as if it’s the most real thing about you, in actual fact your ‘identity’ is only a perspective. It’s kept alive solely through the stories you tell yourself about life, others and yourself.
You could literally say that your ego is all talk – an incessant monologue whose sole purpose is to reinforce your sense of self – who you are and who you aren’t.
Most of the time it goes something like this: “I’m better than he is, uglier than she is, smarter than him, richer than her, worse than I should be. I can do this, I could never do this, I shouldn’t have done that, they shouldn’t be that way. Life is good, life is hard, he’s right, she’s wrong, I’m great, I’m no good, it’s my fault, it’s their fault…” and on, and on, and on...
Just as a whale identifies its location through bouncing sound waves off nearby objects, your ego pinpoints its own presence – defines itself - by relating to the people, ideas, and objects around it.
This process is continuous. Your identity must be continuously reinforced or you will quite literally lose the sense of who you are.
That’s why it can be so very threatening to have something or somebody confronting your ego – your beliefs about yourself, others or the world. Since the ego is actually made out of these beliefs, perspectives and opinions, and you identify the ego as ‘you’, when your beliefs are threatened it can feel just like a threat to your very survival.
Quite simply, the more you get to be ‘right’ about things, the more real and solid you feel, and the more you have to be ‘wrong’, the more threatened and diminished.
WHO ARE YOU REALLY?
This would be really bad news if not for the fact that there is another part of you. This part – your core essence, your authentic self – has an intrinsic reality. Unlike your ego-based identity, its existence is not dependent upon outside circumstances or stories. And unlike your ego, it’s not threatened by someone else’s success, or enhanced by their failure. In fact, the opposite is true.
You could visualize your ego/identity as like the surface of the ocean; changeable, vulnerable, reflecting the sun, sky, and clouds, affected by every wind. Your core is the vast, calm, still, deep water beneath. Those deep mysterious waters teem with every kind of life and potential, but this life is invisible from the surface.
All transformation involves a process of seeing beneath the changeable surface and connecting with the vast deep life-giving waters beneath. This process usually involves a level of discomfort as your identity is shaken out of its placid solid form and made to expand and reflect a deeper level of reality.
But it’s worth it.
MY LITTLE WAKE-UP CALL
Last year I had a very typical experience from which I learned an uncommon lesson.
I was upstairs in my bedroom. My husband was late getting home and had failed to call me to let me know. I wasn’t really worried about him, but I still began to get more and more agitated by the fact that he hadn’t come home when he said he would.
The later he becomes, the angrier I grew. By the time I finally heard the door downstairs I was in a fury. (I realize that this doesn’t show me in a particularly positive light – but the truth is, that’s exactly what happened.)
Like a balloon inflating with hot air, I got ready to blow up at him.
But then something happened. In a moment of unusual lucidity, I saw the future before my eyes. This is what it looked like:
First, I’d blow up. I’d express some righteous indignation (in a loud voice). I’d persist until my husband (generally a pretty nice, easy-going guy) admitted that his behavior had been rude and inconsiderate. Then, once my anger was properly validated, I’d forgive him and we could be friends again – but only after I’d temporarily diminished his ego and inflated my own.
In that one lucid moment, I realized that I could simply skip the whole thing and go straight to being authentic and close. I saw a new possibility – the possibility of refusing to be a slave to my own ego. To choose from a deeper, calmer, more authentic part of myself.
I was overwhelmed with a sense of how massively stupid, predictable, automatic and ridiculous this whole pattern actually is.
What part of me saw that new possibility? The part that peeked out through the surface of my ego – a little piece of my core.
EGO AND PURPOSE – THE STAGES OF CREATION
The world was created in three basic stages.
In Stage One, G-d’s* Infinite all-pervasive essential light was shining without limit, filling all space. There was no place devoid of it, and therefore nothing could exist aside from it. This is the stage of Infinity.
In Stage Two, G-d concealed His Infinite light in order to create an apparently ‘empty space’ in which other things (i.e., the universe, us) could exist. This concealment of the truth is Stage Two. This is the stage of the finite, where it became possible for myriad creatures and myriad perspectives, each with its own limited boundaries and parameters, to exist.
Stage Three is the merging of infinite and finite. It involves the transformation of the finite inhabitants of the universe. They must move from a state of being which conceals their infinite Divine Source to one which expresses and reveals it.
Like a game of hiding and seek, G-d conceals Himself in our finite world and waits for us to find Him. Through this process He can endow us with the greatest gift there is – to exist as finite individuals and yet experience a truly intimate relationship with our Creator.
Your ego is central to this process.
Like everything in the physical world, your ego hides the light of your essence. It is what allows you to exist as a separate individual. By blocking out your intrinsic connection to
G-d, your true nature and purpose, and the essential oneness of the universe, your ego allows you to function as an individual. It allows you to have a personal perspective and a personal experience of life. Without it, you’d be simply a part of the whole.
But this is only the beginning of the process. The ultimate goal is that through your ego - your role as a limited individual with a limited perspective, you will find your way back home.
HOW IT WORKS
We have entered the Era of Transformation. This means that you can train your ego-based identity to recognize and align itself with the voice of your authentic self. The ego doesn’t have to be defended or suppressed – it can be transformed. Your ego can be used on behalf of the purpose for which it was created in the first place – to allow you to enhance your relationship with your Creator, express the potential of your essence, and fulfill your purpose here on earth.
Your defensive ego-based reactions will probably not go away for now. But instead of being a slave to them, you can use them as the impetus to connect to these deeper parts of you. The moment you choose to observe yourself rather than react, to question your own defensive instincts, to genuinely see another person’s point of view, to admit where you may be wrong, to connect with something higher, to be generous with your time, money or resources when you don’t have to, you have made your ego your ally.
In fact, whenever you choose to use your body, your mind, your time, your relationships or your possessions to fulfill your authentic purpose - to do something intrinsically good or G-dly - those things, for that moment, is Holy. They have been used on behalf of the purpose of Creation. You have created a bit of light through which the world’s darkness and concealment will be transformed.
*Since the Torah forbids the erasing of G-d’s name, it’s customary to avoid writing it out in full.
Shows benefits of collimating tubular skylight. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
There's light at the end of the utility bill tunnel, thanks to an easy-to-install skylight that not only brings light to dark spaces but also helps cut energy costs. That saving is not insignificant, as Americans spend 20 percent of their electricity bills on lighting their home.
Called tubular skylights, they are ideal for situations where there just is not enough light and the homeowner doesn't want to install a more traditional lighting system, explains a spokesman for ODL, the Michigan company that makes the skylights. They're perfect for bathrooms, hallways, closets, laundry rooms and just about any room in the house.
Easy To Install
In addition to being Energy-Star qualified, the skylight is also easy for homeowners and contractors to install. A new two-piece installation kit makes installing the skylight simple because the bottom adjustable tube overlaps the top adjustable tube. Just cut a hole in the ceiling and a corresponding one on the roof. Slide in the dome flashing under the roof shingles and attach the reflective tubes. Cap them with the ceiling covering. You may download detailed instructions and watch video clips at www.odl.com/sky lights.
The skylight features a patented Solar Lens Dome, which increases light through the tube. During the full midday sun, a 10-inch tubular skylight lights up 150 square feet of space with a solar throughput equal to about three 100-watt bulbs. The 14-inch tubular skylight is designed to light up 300 square feet-an output equal to about five 100-watt bulbs.
ODL also offers a 10-inch and 14-inch Severe Weather Tubular Skylight, for areas where hail or hurricanes are common.
You must learn to trust yourself when you start your practice of Reiki.
Use your intuition to help you know where to go on the body and what you need to do. Don't question what you are doing, know that you are being guided by what is best for the patient. It doesn't have to make sense, you just need to do what feels appropriate and comfortable t you.
There are many books out there that cover hand positions and symbols and have many strict rules in them. Reiki doesn't have to be strict in its approach. It is the intent of the practitioner that controls the Reiki.
Most practitioners only want to help the patient feel better. The different hand positions are useful but sometimes are not needed when we are in the moment and being guided by our own intuition. If something feels right, then it probably is. There is no wrong way to use Reiki.
Commit yourself to your practice and keep up with your daily self-healing sessions. As with most things, whatever you put into Reiki is what you will get out of it. So practice every day to keep the energy flowing abundantly. After a couple of weeks, if you miss a treatment, you will find yourself missing the free-flowing energy.
Some practitioners take right off and seem to get everything and do everything right. Some have t try a little harder. Just don't try too hard. In many sessions, even when you are feeling like there is no Reiki and nothing is happening, the patient will speak up and tell you that they feel where you have been.
Trust your abilities. If you start second-guessing and worrying, the Reiki will get blocked. So do what comes natural, even if you don't feel anything and see how the patient perceives it instead.
