WALKING MEDITATION as a Modern Way to a Healthier Life

Photo   by magical-world 

Meditation has always been associated with solitude, tranquility, and physical inactivity. When one talks of meditation, you may usually come up with a scenario in which a person finds a secluded area, closes his eyes in silence, and rests his body while working his mind out. Does meditation always have to be like this?

Meditation is an art. A method. A skill. A process. It is the art of keeping in touch with yourself, of discovering your entirety and the many facets of your being. It is also a skill that must be developed. It requires discipline and the right mindset. You cannot simply think that you will meditate and expect to achieve a result right after. This requires the tuning of one's consciousness. Meditation typically involves a set of procedures and guidelines to be followed. Typically, the success of the activity will depend on the adherence to the given principles and rules.

One interesting form of meditation that deviates from the old and traditional concept is walking meditation. Walking meditation is a lot different from other forms of meditation known to many. For one, you will not have to be physically inactive just to do it. In fact, you need to move and be active – you need to walk! You have to actively engage your mind and your body in this activity in order to experience a holistic positive result. This brings another benefit. Since walking is a daily activity, you can actually grow by meditation every day!

You also will not have to find a secluded place just so you can meditate. Anywhere will do. Actually, a noisy and crowded place is even encouraged. Here is where the challenge lies. Concentration is important and awareness must be focused. You must not allow the outer world to bind your mind into it – by the things that you see, hear, or whatever you perceive. You may be aware of them, but you must guard not to do anything about them. Do not cling to anything.

The guiding principle behind walking meditation is achieving a balanced awareness, equilibrium, between your inner self and the outer world surrounding you. This meditation will invite you to feel your entire body, all the workings of the parts that make you up, being aware of how each of your body parts operates. While doing this, you also have to notice your emotion and your mood. These are all done while you walk. The outside world need not be lost in your focus. There will always be stuff that will catch your attention as you meditate, and you are not to resist. You are not to hang on to these, though. You have to let them pass by, observing them without doing anything at all.

This is the real sense of awareness. The ideal result of walking meditation is the person's consciousness of the outside world while being completely aware of his inner self. When this is achieved, many of the puzzles and complexities of life will become clearer and simpler. By bridging the gap between what is within and what is out of yourself, you can take full control of your life and enjoy a healthier and a more satisfied lifestyle.

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The Difference Between KARATE and KUNG FU

A karate student wearing a karategi 

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

For many people, especially those who are not familiar with martial arts, the question often arises on what the difference between karate and kung fu is.  Upon watching somebody doing martial arts, the untrained eye will find it hard to tell whether that person is doing karate or kung fu.  Even those who are beginning martial arts may sometimes be confused about the different styles until further exposure to them will reveal just how different they really are.

Historically, the people living in the islands of Okinawa just south of Japan got exposed to Chinese kung fu martial arts due to the close proximity to China.  Over time, the Okinawans and Japanese developed their own styles of martial arts now known as karate from the original influence of Chinese kung fu.  Although both karate and kung fu utilize many similar martial arts techniques, most kung fu styles will usually have more variety of techniques compared to karate systems.  It’s almost like the Japanese streamlined the number of techniques from Chinese systems to develop karate.  The Japanese also modified the way techniques are executed in karate as they became more linear compared to kung fu.  This is especially evident in the forms or katas (traditional sequence of set moves) where karate techniques are performed with crisp movements that have distinct stop and go motions.  

In kung fu forms, movements involve the use of more circular techniques, particularly with the hands.  These circular motions give kung fu forms a more visually graceful look as techniques seem to flow from one to another.  There is less stop and go with most kung fu styles.  This is why some martial artists, especially in North America, often refer to Chinese kung fu as ‘soft’ styles while karate and tae kwon do are ‘hard’ styles.  This is not to say that hard styles such as karate or tae kwon do are more powerful martial arts than kung fu and other soft styles.  The term ‘soft’ is a bit misleading because the power from circular kung fu moves is often hidden.  Circular moves can generate just as much power as linear ones found in hard styles.   Most kung fu forms are also usually more complex and longer in duration than most karate forms.   To most martial artists, a kung fu form will look much more exotic while a karate form will look more straightforward in terms of martial arts techniques.  Interestingly enough, there are karate styles such as Goju which do have quite a lot of circular techniques similar to kung fu.  Kempo styles are considered a hybrid of Chinese kung fu and Okinawan karate techniques with both circular as well as linear techniques.  There are also many more different styles of kung fu compared to karate.  

A Shaolin student doing a kung-fu moves.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Martial arts weaponry is found in both kung fu and karate styles but different sets of weapons are utilized in each martial arts system.   Much like the empty hand forms, the kata with karate weapons is also more linear compared to those with kung fu weapons which have more circular movements.  As expected, there is a lot more variety of different Chinese kung fu weapons than found in the Japanese karate styles.

    

Traditionally, practitioners of karate wear a white uniform called a gi which features the overlapping kimono-like top.  Less traditional schools like those in North America will allow colored uniforms.  A colored belt will be the finishing touch to the gi with of course the black belt for those at instructor level ranking.  Most of the time and especially inside a dojo studio, karate stylists will not wear any shoes while training.  Most kung fu stylists will wear a very different looking uniform.  Kung fu uniforms usually consist of tops with Chinese ‘frog-style’ buttons rather than overlapping fronts like the karate gi top.  The uniforms can be black or a variety of colors with often lighter fabrics such as satin and shoes are commonly worn.  The modern acrobatic Chinese martial arts of wushu can feature satin uniforms with many different bright colors.  Many kung fu schools simply utilize t-shirts and baggy pants as uniforms.  Satin colored sashes are often worn to signify rank of students but this is actually more of a North American style as most kung fu schools in Asia do not show rankings in uniforms.

Overall, there’s more variety of techniques, styles, weapons, and uniforms found in the Chinese kung fu systems compared to karate.  However, that is not to say that one system or style of martial art is superior to another.  They are just different and to the observer, it could come down to personal preference.  Some prefer kung fu and some prefer karate.  Some ambitious martial artists who desire a full well-rounded education practice both kung fu and karate.

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HYPNOSIS - Does It Really Work?

The mental state of highway hypnosis can occur on highways like this one.
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Hypnosis 101 - Can Hypnosis Bring in A Change In Your Life?

Hypnosis - A appealing yet misconceived topic for the majority of people. There are over and over again lots of misconceptions as to how the process actually works. How can we actually use this tool to build an unfeigned amendment in our lives? What makes it a viable healing tool?

If you think for a minute back to when you had your last setback or dilemma- what state was your mind in at the time? I can hazard a guess that it may have been racing, muddled or trapped. When our minds are in conflict it is complicated to see a new perspective and find a solution. In this panic state, we tend to forget that there is always a solution to any predicament, even though it can seem sorrowful at that moment. In spite of this, these daily dilemmas build up in our minds until we feel so much stress that even tiny things seem overwhelmingly insurmountable. When you adopt a relaxed state of mind, you are able to manage any problem with ease. No matter the challenge, you can face it rationally and systematically.

Over time we assemble imprints into our mind that have effects on our thoughts, routine, and choices we make. The result is chronic stress. Stress leads to poor, self-destructive habits... Continually making poor choices can lead to low self-esteem and loss of respect for ourselves. Who do we blame when things don't work out? The first target is frequently ourselves. We make ambitious plans for change only to beat ourselves up for not being perfect.

Hypnosis suspends the harsh judgments we make on ourselves. Under the state of hypnosis, we can begin to comprehend the patterns of our lives emerge from a detached position. Thus, enabling us to free ourselves from the grip of them.

How does the subconscious mind control and mould our every day lives?

The subconscious mind stores all of your past experiences, responses, everything that has ever happened to you, even if you do not have a conscious recollection of it. It is like a large storeroom of your past. It also reins our bodily functions: breathing, heart rate, digestion and body temperature.

Hypnosis takes us to a detached state of mind. In this state, the conscious mind can take a breather from the never-ending "noise" of our mind. The incessant jabber that goes on in our heads. Our brain waves transform into the alpha state. They slow down equivalent to when we are just about to fall asleep at night. At that time, we have permitted our body and mind to slow down. The mind reaches a heightened state of focus and clarity. Each person occurrence of the hypnotic process will be altered.

One issue that is for certain is that peoples expectation of the process is a major factor in creating an ideal space for change. The key is the persons' willingness and capacity to cede to something novel. Through the hypnotic process, there is an opportunity to study the deeper aspects of you and unlearn ingrained habits for a far more encouraging outcome.

A hypnotherapist acts as a catalyst for change but in essence, the transformation comes from within the client. All hypnosis is self-hypnosis. Hypnosis takes place where there is a move in the state of mind. This shift in the mental state brings the ultimate space for releasing of limiting thoughts. Despite there being much misconception and puzzlement about hypnosis, it can be a truly vigorous tool to create change in your life.

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The Brain and HEALTHY AGING

Brain structures involved in dealing with stress and fear. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Growing older and learning from your mistakes is a clear sign that our brain is improving. The brain will improve as we learn. In return, it helps us to live a better life. We live longer and learn new skills that help us to develop a healthier way of living. 

Our brain has learned a lot from our younger days. All those skills you accomplished made the brain stay healthy. Remember practice makes perfect and as we grow older the more practice we get. The more we learn the quality of talking grows and improves even more. We need to learn how to manage stress too because stress will damage the circuit in your brain.

As you grow you, become wiser. The challenges and opportunities along with making a decision were all improving the brain. Be positive on life and ready for new challenges.

The brain works by increasing knowledge and it builds the connecting elements in the brain that make us function well. You’re never too old to learn something new.

As you grow older, keep your connection with your family and friends. The more we stay in contact with our family and friends we are keeping our mental sharpness working. You can learn from them and it will help to maintain your mental sharpness each day that goes by.

Your diet is very important to keep the brain healthy, as we grow older. Eat as many colorful fruits and leafy vegetables as you can. Vegetables are known to help your brain to perform and become better. If vegetables can help prevent cancer, it has to be good for the brain as well.

Fruits and vegetable are full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals along with being low in fat and calories.  Antioxidants have proven to benefit us since it contains Vitamins known to reduce death or damaged cells. Eat those blueberries the color is known to improve short-term memory.

Very few doctors disapprove of taking multivitamins and herb supplements.  As we get older, our diets change by eating less just is careful and make sure that your dosage isn’t going to react to your medications.  Vitamins are good to take to replace what you don’t get in your diet but first consult with your physician to make sure you're taking what you need.

Stress busters: 

Stress can take over our lives making it harmful to your bodies and brain as well. There isn’t any way a person can relieve all stress but we can decide what can be eliminated and concentrate on what you can do to relieve the rest by bringing pleasure to yourself.  It is very important that you don’t let stress take over your life. Stress causes depression easier as we grow older.

The brain releases stress hormones to help to use manage some stress but if too many hormones are released it can damage the nerve cells. Depression can set in if the hormones are released too much and fast.

Relieve those stressful elements that cause you misery: 

Relieving stress isn’t easy for anyone. You have to forget about the things you have no control over and fix the ones you do. Try taking a walk or do some kind of activity to relax that brain not stress it. Putting some fun into your life and make yourself happy again.

Sometimes it takes a while to make changes in your life, as we grow older to fit your health and needs. Changes are hard to do and it sometimes becomes a challenge but in the end, it will relieve stress and improve the brain by giving it a new learning experience.

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How To Fight Back Against DEPRESSION

I am one of those people who can easily slip into a very negative state of mind. The slightest knockback or problem can lead to a cloud of doom descending over me, a cloud which I find hard to push away and remove. This article looks at ways in which we can fight back, to quickly get us back into a happy mode.

I used to be quite a fragile character, some would say that I was even scared of my own shadow. I was always paranoid that people were talking about me and laughing behind my back. 

Even though my parents are superb, I was not a happy child or a happy teenager. I am so unlucky you see or so I thought. I walked around as if the world owed me something and would often feel very sorry for myself. I was bullied at school, it was more mental bullying rather than anything physical. I am sure that most people also get bullied and deal with it. It would leave me in a state of panic and depression. Looking back I have to say I was a bit of a wimp in reality.

I decided that enough was enough by my mid-twenties and decided it was time to toughen up. I could not continue to live my life as I had been, as I would probably be dead by the time I was fifty. 

I then went about a self-help program to increase my overall self-confidence and self-esteem. I wanted to learn more about stress management, dealing with depression, relaxation and about how to become successful in life.

What I found out over the next twelve to eighteen months would change my life forever. 

These are the things I had to do:

I had to stop feeling sorry for myself. Yes I am not perfect but who is.

I had to think in a more positive way.

I had to stop worrying about the future.

I had to stop caring what other people thought of me.

I needed to smile more.

I needed to learn to relax. I now use meditation for this purpose. 

I had to learn to like myself.

I needed to become stronger to fight away the negative thoughts in my head.

I needed to appreciate what I did have in life, rather than concentrating on what I had not.

I started to implement the above and it helped me no end. That horrible cloud of doom, still descended, however, around once a month. When it does descend, I now write two lists. What I am happy about in life and what I am sad or worrying about. I then analyse both lists and more times than not, I am actually over-reacting.

In conclusion, life is a battle. There are good times and bad. We need to become strong and learn to think in a more positive way. We have to fight back against people who bully us and against the voices in our head who are trying to make us panic. This is not easy, however with determination people are able to turn their life around just like I have.

I used to feel anger towards the people who bullied me at school. I now feel sorry for them. They are the bad apples and I pray for them. I pray that God will one day make them pure.

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Harmonizing with FENG SHUI

Ba_Gua_black-and-white (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Perhaps one of the oldest forms of geomancy in the world is Feng shui which originated from China more than 3500 years ago. This ancient practice is literally translated as wind and water and is based on the belief that life can be greatly improved with the help of Qi or energy flow. This Qi can be produced by achieving balance or harmony through the use of the laws of heaven, which pertains to the study of astronomy and earth, which is associated with the study of geography. 

The purpose of the application of this practice is to locate that Qi or that vital energy in your surroundings by creating balance and harmony around you. Here are some Feng shui theories that can give you a better grasp of this concept of balance and energy.

The Power of Qi

Qi is everywhere and the key is to find it. This energy is a result of interactions in the environment like the yin and yang and the five elements of water, fire, earth, metal and wood.  This theory believes that the way you arrange your surroundings and position certain objects around you can affect your energy levels. It also believes that these energy levels can even influence your health, wealth, relationships and even luck. By properly organizing your environment, qi can flow through space freely and can create a positive effect on those who live in the area. 

The Union of the Yin & Yang 

The yin and the yang are two opposing forces or energies that work together creating a unity of opposites. The yin is characterized as the passive energy that is associated with the characteristics of water, cold, peace and tenderness while the yang is described as the active energy like those from heat, fire, excitement and speed. In other words, if yin is matter, yang is energy and neither of them can exist without the other. The key to understanding this practice is to achieve a proper balance of yin and yang in our environment.

Balance through Bagua 

The bagua is a popular Feng shui instrument that is shaped like an octagon and is divided into the eight cardinal directions of North, South, East, West, North East, North West, South East and South West. The theory of the bagua is that each of these directions corresponds to a part of our life. For instance, the northern portion of the bagua pertains to one’s career while the south pertains to the fame or reputation of a person. The other categories of the bagua are family, children, prosperity, relationships, wisdom, and travel.

The theory of the bagua also believes that each of the eight directions pertains to a part of our life and in order to activate the energy or improve a certain part of our life is to find the direction it corresponds to and make the qi flow into that space positively.  

Finding the Harmony

Understanding and appreciating the art of Feng shui is accepting that there is an existing relationship between you and your environment. The theories of this practice present information on how a person can achieve balance and harmony with the environment which can have a great impact in particular areas of a person’s life.

Although each person has their own potentials in the area of health, wealth, relationships and luck, what this practice really teaches us how to enhance these areas for practitioners to make the most out of their lives.

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More Aware Of DIABETES - Heart Disease Link

 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

With diabetes on the rise, doctors are extremely concerned about associated risks such as heart disease and stroke, which together kill two out of three people with diabetes. Fortunately, a recent study indicates that more people with diabetes are making the link between diabetes and their increased risk for heart disease and stroke.

According to a 2005 awareness survey conducted by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) and American College of Cardiology (ACC), 45 percent of people with diabetes understand their increased risk for heart disease, which is up from 35 percent in 2001.

Experts believe even more awareness is needed, however. The ADA and ACC continue to work together to share important information, tools and resources to encourage people with diabetes and health care providers to learn more about the impact of diabetes on the heart.

Other findings from the 2005 ADA/ACC awareness survey show:

• 69 percent know they may develop high blood pressure (38 percent in 2001).

• 64 percent know they are at risk for cholesterol problems (37 percent in 2001).

Importantly, more people with diabetes are talking to their health care providers about managing diabetes comprehensively:

• 45 percent of people with diabetes now have a goal for blood glucose levels (30 percent in 2003).

• 57 percent have a goal for blood pressure (34 percent in 2003).

• 61 percent have a goal for cholesterol (34 percent in 2003).

These figures are encouraging, but awareness may not be moving fast enough to keep pace with the growing prevalence of diabetes.

Recent statistics indicate diabetes has risen by over 14 percent since last estimates in 2003. The need for increased education and awareness about the link between diabetes and heart disease is now more critical than ever.

Armed with the best information, people with diabetes can properly manage their diabetes, understand their risks for complications such as heart disease and stroke, and take action to live a longer, healthier life.

(This is an older article, but still very informativ.)

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The Importance of the BEAT: Checking Your Pulse for a Diagnosis

Taking pulse (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Chinese medicine will always use natural observations in order to determine which parts of the body may be off in their energy.  By observing the external functions of the body, they can make assessments on how this affects the internal structure.  From here, they will be able to decide on how to change the energy flow.

One of the most important areas of observation for Chinese medicine diagnosis is the pulse.  The different pulses of the body are so important to Chinese medicine, that they are considered an art by learning how to use them appropriately.  Usually, only the most trained practitioners can find how to use the pulse properly.

The reason why the pulse is important to the observations is that Chinese medicine has found connections between the pulse and every area of the body.  In Western medicine, there is an understanding that the pulse of the heart is located in the wrist and also the neck.  In Chinese medicine, there are also pulses for the kidney, liver, and other body areas.

Not only do all of the internal organs have specific pulses in different areas of the body, but these also have different depths.  This means that a reading of a pulse can be heard in ‘layers’ in each position.  Typically, each pulse will have three different depths that can be observed.  These can be found in nine different areas when the diagnosis is being made from the pulse.

If a practitioner is looking for a diagnosis for a pulse, they will look for several attributes.  If you are in Chinese medicine, you will most likely know about twenty-eight different characteristics to look for.  These may be related to how the pulse sounds, the rate it is beating at, and other factors such as this.  The characteristics that are determined will also help to draw conclusions about which areas of the body are off of their regular energy flow.

If you are moving into Chinese medicine, expect your pulses to be checked.  This is one of the main considerations in Chinese medicine and is never overlooked in the diagnosis.  The art of checking the pulse in Chinese medicine is one of the main foundations for understanding how the internal Qi of someone is functioning.

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A Great House Warming Gift Idea For Every Budget - CELTIC Snail

The white-lipped snail (Cepaea hortensis). (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Eventually, someone you know will move house - and this idea will come in very handy indeed when you want to come up with a housewarming gift that is a little bit more meaningful and interesting than just handing over a pot plant.

There is an old Celtic tradition which involves the humble snail.

Now the snail carries its house on its back and so it is never homeless; but more, the spiral design of the snail shell was always very special to the Celtic people, so it makes perfect sense that any kind of snail makes the perfect housewarming present.

To be warm, safe, snug and protected inside one's own home is a wonderful idea and the snail symbol, or the more abstract spiral, lends itself to all manner of wonderful housewarming gifts.

You can make a card very easily by cutting out a spiral and affixing it with glue; any snail motif on a greeting card or a picture of a snail drawn or cut out from another source will make the housewarming card special.

Snails are very popular as ornaments, so you can get an enormous variety of all sizes of snail figurines, from small brass snails to large garden ornaments made from marble and they're all easily found, online and off.

An exotic snail shell or the shell of a sea snail is an extension of this idea and particularly good for beachfront properties.

As the basic snail/spiral shape is natural and easy, you can even just find a beautiful stone and paint a spiral on it for a superb and extremely personal and lovely housewarming present; further, it is the type of gift that the recipients will treasure and keep, and that will remind them of you and your good wishes every time they see it.

There are many other ways in which the snail design can be used for housewarming gifts. If you really need to give a pot plant, you can decorate the pot in which it comes with a spiral. Any budding artist can make and paint a basic snail from self-hardening clay; snail and spiral mobiles are easy and always fascinating, too. You can make a small painting that can be hung in a hallway and depending on the recipient, grandchildren can get involved, just the same as famous interior designers, artists and goldsmiths - it only depends on your budget.

I think that the idea of the Celtic house warming snail is a wonderful way to convey good wishes to someone in their new home, and to give them your intention that they should always be snug, happy, well cared for and safe.

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TURMERIC - Go for Gold

Black Turmeric (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Ayurveda the ancient medical science is based on the principle of preventing diseases. It directs us to resist the diseases through our food habits and lifestyles. The same principle was stressed by Hippocrates also “Let your food be your medicine” was his advice to mankind 

Let’s know more about a very well known spice in Ayurveda yet not completely understood by the common man. Over the last several years, there has been increasing interest in turmeric and its medicinal properties. But Ayurveda has immensely praised the medicinal qualities of turmeric which finds its place in almost all ayurvedic preparations related to liver and skin disorders. 

This herb has occupied the shelves of every Indian kitchen since 6000 years and is considered as the king of the kitchen. It is used daily in cooking. Apart from cooking it is also used as a beauty aid and as a dye. 

Turmeric (Curcuma Longa) belongs to Zingiberaceae Family and is a perennial plant that grows 3 to 5 feet high in the tropical regions. In India, it is grown all over but especially in Bengal, Bombay and in Tamilnadu.

Ayurveda appreciates the medicinal qualities and color of turmeric. This is evident through the various names of turmeric specified in ancient texts of Ayurveda. Some of these are 

• Haridra – enhancer of body complexion.

• Kanchani  - looks like gold.

• Nisha  - imparts  beauty by enhancing complexion which is as beautiful as  full moon night

• Gowri  - yellow in color

• Krimighni  - works as an Antibacterial and antihelminthic.

• Yoshit Priya - used in Gynecological disorders.

In Hindi turmeric is known as haldi.

The rhizomes or roots of this plant are used as medicine and for other purposes. The rhizomes are boiled, dried and then powdered. This powder is used for all purposes.

The active chemical component of turmeric is curcumin.  Curcumin is a strong antioxidant and reduces inflammation by reducing histamine levels. Curcumin protects the liver, reduces cholesterol, and prevents internal blood clotting thus preventing heart attacks and liver tissue damages.

Turmeric is very safe. But special precautions should be taken in persons who have gallstones, hyperacidity, stomach ulcers and obstructive jaundice. 

Ayurveda explains the qualities of turmeric as light and dry. It has a pungent and bitter taste. It is widely used in skin, respiratory and liver disorders. It purifies blood and enhances the complexion.

Medicinal properties of turmeric – Go for Gold!

Effects of Turmeric----

On Liver

Ayurveda has recommended this golden herb to purify blood and prevent it from clotting. It is extensively used to protect the liver from toxins and microbial. Turmeric increases the secretion of bile, promotes a free flow of bile. This herb can be used to overcome the toxic effects of alcohol on the liver. This reduces cholesterol and protects the heart.

Use of a ½ teaspoon of turmeric with warm water rejuvenates the liver and expels toxins out of it.

On respiratory system

Turmeric is very effective in bronchitis, productive cough and asthma.  

One spoon of turmeric boiled in milk should be consumed with a spoon of pure ghee in conditions like bronchitis, asthma and productive cough. This gives very good relief and expectorates excessively produced mucous in the lungs.

On aging

The antioxidant properties of turmeric give us young looks and make us feel young. It reduces inflammation in joints, protects the heart, reduces cholesterol and keeps us very healthy.

On Diabetes

It is widely used in ayurvedic preparations for diabetes. It lowers the blood sugar and increases glucose metabolism.

On Uterus

It initiates regular menstrual cycle and reduces menstrual cramps.

On skin

Blood nourishes the skin and it is a known fact that pure blood always keeps the skin glowing and radiant. Turmeric purifies the blood, nourishes skin and gives it a healthy natural glow and radiance.

A traditional face pack of India consists of gram flour, pure turmeric powder, milk and honey. This reduces inflammation of the skin, smoothens it and prevents many skin ailments. 

On Stomach and Intestines

Turmeric enhances digestion, normalizes metabolism and expels intestinal parasites

On Wounds

Turmeric accelerates the healing process and readily reduces pain and inflammation. Thick Paste of turmeric applied on wounds acts as an excellent antibiotic and anti-inflammatory.

On Yogis

Turmeric purifies and cleans the body. It is a tailor-made herb for yogis. It increases the flexibility of muscles, reduces inflammation in muscles and joints and helps to perform yoga with confidence and delight.

Is it not a wonderful treasure which nature has stored for us in this golden herb? Now let us start a gold rush.

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Elements in ASTROLOGY

Two Women with the Signs of Libra and Scorpio. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Groups of signs in astrology share certain characteristics that are classified according to four earthly elements – fire, air, water and earth. It helps explain why some signs are more compatible than others.

The Fire signs are Aries (March 21 to April 19), Leo (July 23 to August 22)  and Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21). Fire people are leaders, dynamic. They light up everything around them. Because Fire needs Air to exist, Fire signs are most compatible with the Air signs. Water is anathema to Fire and a Water person could try to dampen the dynamism and enthusiasm that defines Fire.

The Air signs are Aquarius (January 20 to February 18), Gemini (May 21 to June 21) and Libra (September 23 – October 22). These are the idea signs, the air that breathes a spark into a flame. They can’t be tied down. They require freedom of movement and thought.

The water signs of Cancer (June 22 to July22), Scorpio (October 23 to November 21) and Pisces (February 19 to March 20) are characterized by the phrase still waters run deep. They’re emotional and sensitive, given to deep thoughts and conversations. Just as water can blur an image or hide secrets within its depths, so do Water signs have secretive emotions and abilities.  Water signs are most compatible with Earth signs.

The Earth signs are Taurus (April 20 – May 20), Virgo (August 23 to September 22) and Capricorn (December 22 to January 19). They are stable and consistent. While not as compassionate as the water signs, they are nonetheless nurturing. They can be rigid (stick in the mud) and easily stuck in routines. They are most compatible with Water signs, as Water is necessary for the Earth to properly nurture growing things. Earth helps Water contain itself, which is often necessary for survival on the planet.

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Peppermint and Lemon AROMATHERAPY Foot Bath Recipe

A can of peppermint infusion.  (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Simple peppermint and lemon aromatherapy foot bath recipe for tired feet will lift depression, relieve stress and aid relaxation.

An aromatherapy foot bath is effective and easy to do at home - real DIY stress relief.

Here are our favorite ways of using a peppermint and lemon aromatherapy foot bath recipe with essential oils to ease and restore tired feet... And the benefits extend beyond just fresher feet!

Foot Bath Recipe 1

• 1 cup Epsom salt
• 4 drops lemon and 4 drops peppermint

Directions

1. Add oil to the salts and keep in a sealed container.
2. Use 1 tablespoon in a warm foot bath, once a week. (Can use Dead Sea salts instead of Epsom salt. Or, skip the salt and just add the oils directly to the water. You can also use other oils.)

Foot Bath Recipe 2

• 1 tsp. sweet almond oil
• 3 drops peppermint essential oil and 3 drops lemon essential oil

Directions

1. Fill a basin with warm water; and then add the almond oil, peppermint oil and lemon oil.
2. Swish the water with your hands to mix the oil.
3. Soak your feet in the water until your feet feel tingly and cool.
4. Put pebbles or marbles in the bottom of the basin and rub your feet over them for a stimulating foot soak.

Tips for Aromatherapy Foot Baths

• A good rule of thumb is 8 to 10 drops of essential oil per 2 gallons of water.
• Soak for at least 15 minutes.
• Listen to relaxing music to add to your relaxation.
• Use different blends of oils to suit your mood and needs.

* Benefits of adding lemon oil to your foot bath...

• Eliminate toxins that cause arthritic pain.
• Lemon scent can lift your spirits, dispel sluggishness and relieve depression.
• Oil of lemon can also help dispel fear and apathy.

* Benefits of adding peppermint oil to your foot bath...

• Helps alleviate digestive problems such as indigestion and nausea.
• Clears respiratory congestion and helps with sinusitis, colds and bronchial asthma.
• Helps to clear the mind and aids concentration.
• Use peppermint to assist with anger, guilt and apathy.

Aromatherapy is an excellent way to treat your feet...

Other Essential Oils that you can use for a foot bath and other treatments include:

•Lavender - soothing and relaxing.

•Rosemary - mild stimulant and good for rheumatic aches and pains.

•Eucalyptus - powerful bactericidal with anti-viral properties, good disinfectant.

•Tea Tree - disinfectant: use for blisters, fungal infections, athletes foot, insect bites.

Margo Bastos is passionate about holistic healing and natural stress-free living. Her abiding interest, continuing personal research and every-day philosophy is in alternative mind, body and spiritual modalities. She has a real estate business in South Africa and her formal qualifications include an MA in Jewish Studies from the University of Cape Town. Together with Alan Mounter, a practicing holistic therapist, she has a website dealing with natural remedies for managing the negative effects of stress. Visit  http://www.diy-stress-relief.com Article Directory: EzineArticles

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A NATURAL REMEDY for Gingivitis, Toothaches, and Mouth Sores

Ulcerative necrotizing gingivitis (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Everyone has a variety of bacteria in their mouth. Some have more than others. This bacterium helps you by beginning the digestive process.

Excess bacteria in your mouth have now been found to cause more than tooth decay, gingivitis or gum disease. So, you need to know, even though you might not have gingivitis, how to control these plaque-building bacteria in your mouth.

Bacteria that create gingivitis live in your plaque and cause your gums to inflame, bleed, and separate from your teeth. You can also have bad breath when you have gingivitis. In more severe cases, your gums become sore, teeth hurt, gums recede, and teeth loosen.

To stop the inflammation and gum separation use this natural remedy to kill some of these bacteria and strengthen your gums in your mouth.

Here are the herbs and the formula you will need to make a remedy for a mild case of gingivitis:

2 parts white oak bark herb – powder
1 part myrrh gum herb – power or granules
3/4 part Peppermint leaves converted to powder
½ part anise herb – power or seeds
1/8 part clove - powder

If herbs and leaves are not in powder form, grind them in a coffee grinder. Use this formula to make as much powder as you want.

Place the mixture into a small container. I usually use a small-unused vitamin bottle.

I usually mix a small amount and use a tablespoon as my measuring tool. For example, 2 tablespoons of white oak, 1 tablespoon of myrrh gum, a ¾ tablespoon of peppermint leaves, and so on. The measurements do not have to be so precise.

How to use it:

To control bacteria in your mouth, use this power once a week. If you have gingivitis, you can use this 3 times a day. Place some powder on your toothbrush and brush your teeth and gums. After brushing spit out, a few time, the saliva and residue powder. Don’t rinse out your mouth since you want to keep the active herb powders in your month. You can swallow any that remains in your mouth with no problem.

This powder combination is bitter, but quite powerful and will get the job done. You can add more peppermint powder to make it less bitter if you like.

For severe cases of gingivitis and toothaches, you can also moist some powder with distilled water and then place the paste all along your teeth and gums – front and back. Leave the paste in your mouth as long as you can. Don’t worry about the herbs getting in between your teeth. This remedy works.

My wife was scheduled for a root canal last year and a few weeks before her tooth started paining and couldn't sleep. So I made this remedy. She just placed the powers around the painful area. It wasn't long before the pain stopped and she was able to go to sleep.

There have been other clients that have used this remedy for a month and successfully avoided having the dentist apply gingivitis treatment. In cases of severe gingivitis, go see your dentist and at the same time use this remedy.

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Pursuing ALTERNATIVE FORMS OF ENERGY

Greg Ball at "Greenstock" in Yorktown NY in May of 2007, an event about renewable 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 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. 

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HERBAL MEDICINE - Part III - ALOE VERA - A Case Study

Aloe Vera (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

History of Aloe Vera

The aloe plant most likely originated in the semi-arid regions of Africa. It was used by the ancient Sumerians, Egyptians, and Greeks in the healing of wounds. Alexander the Great purportedly conquered the Mediterranean island of Socotra so that his troops would have a reliable source of aloe to use in treating their wounds.

Aloe has been used throughout history in all cultures; in Ayrvedic medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, and Native American medicine, to name a few. It was brought to the Americas by Spanish missionaries centuries ago, and its use eventually spread across both continents.

The first modern scientific paper on aloe in the United States was published in 1934. It describes the use of whole aloe leaf to successfully heal radiation injuries, burns, and dermatitis in 50 documented cases.

A chemical analysis undertaken in 1978 discovered a wide variety of amino acids, saccharides, sterols ( similar to cortisone ), salicylic acid ( aspirin-related ), and lupeol ( a painkiller and anti-microbial agent ).

A 1987 study concluded that aloe might be used to control or kill many viruses, including the common cold, measles, mumps, chicken pox, and flu. This led to the approval by the FDA in 1994 of the use of aloe for human testing in the treatment of HIV.

Uses of Aloe Vera

The first use of aloe was likely as an external agent in the treatment of wounds and burns. Sap from the leaves or the leaf as a whole can also be used to cure a wide variety of skin ailments: dermatitis, acne, skin allergies, fungus infections, ringworm, herpes, and shingles.

Since ancient times, aloe gel has also been used internally as a laxative. It was at one time regulated by the FDA as an ingredient in over-the-counter laxative preparations. Their approval was discontinued in 2002, due to the lack of safety data provided by the manufacturers.

Boiled juice from aloe sap and skin has been used to treat ulcers and indigestion, and to cut excess stomach acid. It has also been used orally to treat diabetes, asthma, epilepsy, and osteoarthritis. However, this use has not been supported by traditional medicine, or approved by governmental agencies.

Cosmetically, aloe vera gel is the most popular ingredient in skin lotions and sunblocks. It has been shown to balance pH levels in the skin. However it is doubtful that it has anything but a psychological effect, as it has been shown that a relatively high concentration of aloe is necessary for it to provide any benefit.

In Conclusion:

It has been found that in order for the ingredients in aloe to work properly, they must be used as found in the plant. The isolated chemicals do not have the same effect. This synergistic relationship between aloe's various antiseptic and pain-killing ingredients tends to support the position of traditional herbalists. So far, at least, Mother Nature seems to be better at mixing chemicals than scientists.

By David Broadhead, Ph.D. aka "The Professor", is the owner and webmaster of several websites, including one about tropical houseplants and a home remedies site with information on natural treatments and cures. Article Source: EzineArticles

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