Sunday, October 18, 2020

Acid Reflux Disease - The Big Lie!

Bild von esudroff auf Pixabay

Have you ever wondered what really causes digestive problems?  Did you know that most digestive disorders are not diseases at all, but conditions which can be completely cured by using natural techniques and remedies?

The medical community would have you believe that only prescription drugs can relieve the symptoms of indigestion.  This is simply not the case.  Antacids are, at best, a temporary fix and they are loaded with harmful ingredients such as sodium and aluminum.  PPI drugs should only be used for eight weeks, at most. Then what are you to do?  These drugs only mask and hide the symptoms and have hundreds of harmful side effects.  They do not heal the condition! They do not make you well! They only make the drug makers wealthier at your expense!

I used to suffer from acute GERD.  I was addicted to a PPI drug…..a “certain colored pill”.  After several years of taking this drug, my condition became worse and I was told to double the dose.  I began to feel sluggish and tired.  My vision suffered and my blood pressure soared.  I realized that these were possible side effects of this PPI drug.  I did a computer search and found that there were hundreds of possible side effects.  I was shocked and frightened at what I found! I was harming my body and I wanted to stop taking this drug!  But when I tried to stop the PPI,  he acid pumps, which had been shut off, went wild and produced more acid than ever before. 

I can’t tell you how much I suffered. My esophagus was constantly burning and l feared that I would permanently damage myself. I couldn’t sleep at night. I was afraid to eat or drink anything but water!  I was afraid to go out to dinner. I became a recluse. I began to lose my friends. They didn’t understand my problem.  Friends would call and say, “Let’s go out for Mexican, barbeque, or pizza”.  Of course, I couldn’t. I loved to eat hot chili sprinkled with raw onions and jack cheese, but it was now my worst nightmare.  My life had become unbearable!

I was determined to beat this sickness! My doctor couldn’t help me –no one could tell me what to do.  I had to heal myself.  I became completely dedicated to finding the answers.  I studied and researched.  I wanted to find naturopathic treatments as opposed to drugs, so I searched high and low for natural remedies that might actually cure acid reflux.  I tried every possible treatment that exists, short of voodoo. 

I found that the answers to the acid reflux problem are really quite simple.  With a few changes in lifestyle and with the help of several natural remedies, one can absolutely beat the acid reflux syndrome, without the use of drugs.

Remember, that the reason this condition exists, in the first place, is due to a damaged esophagus.    Let the esophagus heal by not eating the same foods in the same way, that caused the damage.   Losing weight, exercising, chewing properly, drinking sufficient amounts of water, and elevating the head at night, are all simple things that anyone can do to improve this condition. 

There are also many natural ingredients found in any health store, which can help during the acid reflux recovery period.  Herbs, such as slippery elm and marshmallow have wonderful healing properties.  Aloe vera juice, licorice and natural honey can soothe the esophagus and assist in the healing process.

By eating dinner at least three hours before retiring, one can drastically reduce the chances of acid reflux.  Chewing gum between meals actually reduces stomach acid, and if you really have to have that pasta with tomato sauce, there is always baking soda as a last resort.

Eat smaller, more frequent meals.  I eat four or five little meals each day.  I start the day with Kukicha Twig tea.  I then eat fruit, such as bananas and melons.  I have several snacks of walnuts, almonds and more fruit.  For lunch, I eat a salad, made with grilled chicken breasts, or tofu, mixed with hearts of romaine, tossed with a light lemon and chive vinaigrette.  


I have found that it pays to keep the food that you eat as alkaline as possible.  I have developed some wonderful recipes, such as pasta primavera, baked chicken breasts on mushroom caps and sautéed white fish on mashed potatoes with green peas.  You certainly don’t have to starve yourself, but I suggest that you stay away from those acid reflux “trigger” foods, until you have healed your irritated esophagus.

It does take a new approach to life, in general, to heal a stubborn acid reflux condition.  Think of it as a fun challenge.  You’ll feel so much better, it will have been work all the effort.

So please don’t resort to those “colored pills”.  Yes, they are convenient, but potentially dangerous, in the long run.  Take command of your own health and use natural resources to heal acid reflux.  

Charles Stewart Richey



SUICIDE is Not an Option

Lucretia committing suicide.
Lucretia committing suicide. 
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

On December 12th, 1992, my brother committed suicide. The consequences were devastating to everyone involved. Maybe this story will help someone who is contemplating suicide to decide against it.

Suicide is not the solution that some may think it is. Problems and unresolved issues will haunt family and friends for many decades.

My nephew, who was just a baby at the time, would always ask about his uncle. He eventually learned to point up at the sky and say, "Uncle Scott".

But the reality is that he missed out on having the benefit and support of his uncle as he grew up. And of course, there are countless interactions with family members that will be missed over the decades.

Suicide is permanent. And the effects that it has on loved ones also lasts over a lifetime.

My brother was only 22 years old at the time he chose to commit suicide. I was only 24.

I remember going to the viewing and seeing his lifeless body. They couldn't quite erase all of the signs of his violent death. And that image will stick with the living for the rest of their lives.

In the end, the temporary pain someone escapes by committing suicide might be overshadowed by the pain and sadness of family and friends. That pain may continue through the decades whenever they think about it.

The missed opportunities for interaction also impedes the growth of everyone else. Countless interactions that would have occurred are all lost now.

Who knows how destiny was changed by such an event. The family that he may have had will not exist now.

The triumphs and setbacks of a life will never be realized. The fulfillment of a lifetime was cut short by a decision that may have been made rashly at a moment of personal confusion or pain.

We never know who it is in our destiny to meet and interact with over a lifetime. All of those 'plays' of life will never be able to exist because one of the characters on the stage will not be there to fulfill his role.



So, the total sum of the tragedy is really unknown but it seems likely that over what would have amounted to decades of time, that sum must be quite high. I guess we won't get the chance to find out.

Though I am revealing this personal family tragedy to the masses through this article, if it saves a single life, it will be worth it. Drop me a line if you ever want to talk, I would be happy to hear from you.


Saturday, October 17, 2020

What Is a SHAMAN?

Urarina shaman in the Peruvian Amazon, 1988
Urarina shaman in the Peruvian Amazon, 1988 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

A shaman is a particular kind of healer and magical practitioner who is on a path of service in an animist-shamanist culture. To understand what a shaman is, you must remember that while all shamans are healers, only a certain type of healer is a shaman.

A shaman is someone who has the ability to journey to the spirit world to find important information (such as where to find food, water, or shelter) and to do spirit work such as retrieving lost souls. To do that, a shaman goes into a deep (theta state) trance and journeys to the spirit world.

The person who fills the role of shaman serves an animist community by healing and harmonizing the humans with nature and the spirits.

All Shamans are Healers. Not All Healers Are Shamans  An important task of all shamans is healing. All shamans are healers. but not all healers are shamans.

A culture may have several kinds of healers who work in different ways. To be a shaman, a person must journey to the spirit world to do healing or other work that benefits the community or the spirits connected with the people or place the shaman serves.

A shaman may also be an herbalist. But a healer can be an herbalist without being a shaman (without journeying to the spirit world).

Indigenous women, who gather plants for their families, learn a lot about the use of plants as food and as medicine. Shamans use such knowledge, but so do all women in animist cultures.

Where Do Shamans Come From?  The word shaman comes from the language of the Tungus tribe in Siberia. It refers to a person who does shamanic work for the Tungus people. Each Siberian tribe has a different word that means shaman. In fact, in cultures throughout the world, each tribe or nation has its own word(s) for the shaman.

Shamans are found in many parts of the world, but they are almost always found in animist cultures. That means shamans hardly ever exist except in gathering-hunting, nomadic animal-herding, or horticultural (gathering, hunting, and gardening) communities.

Once a culture turns to agriculture, religion usually changes from animism to something else, such as the worship of goddesses and/or gods. Shamanism gradually disappears, though some cultures retain some elements of shamanic practice longer than others.

When Is "a Shaman" not a Shaman?  What a shaman is called in a given culture depends on the language spoken by the people of that culture. Bear in mind that people often casually and mistakenly describe any indigenous healer as "a shaman." That creates confusion.

Also, the various terms for native healers are sometimes wrongly translated as a shaman by linguists who do not truly understand what the word shaman means.

If someone calls himself a shaman, he probably is not one. Indigenous cultures each have their own term for a person who fills the role of shaman, and only one of them, the Tungus tribe of Siberia actually calls that person a shaman.  A real shaman serves a particular animist community, and we generally do not have those in European and American culture anymore. So if a modern westerner tells you that he is a shaman, beware. He probably is not one, though he probably does not realize that.

With people of indigenous heritage, it is harder to tell. It is important to be very tactful and diplomatic until you find out more about who they are and what their background is.



But be cautious. There are people (indigenous and modern) who are all too willing to take advantage of the modern craze for shamanism.

Some are sincere but ignorant. Others are hoping to impress you, get your attention or money, or gain power over others by calling themselves, shamans.  Learn as much as you can and use common sense before submitting to treatment by someone calling himself or herself a shaman. If the treatment is very expensive, the odds are that the person is not genuine.

Even if the treatment is quite effective, someone who is out to make a lot of money as a shaman is more of a sorcerer (someone who seeks personal gain rather than seeking to be of service) than a shaman.



Sunday, October 11, 2020

REIKKI and Psychic Debris

Emotion
Emotion (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Psychic debris will accumulate and create blockages in your life force at all levels.  This debris begins in the mental and emotional body.  If you don't take care of it then, it can cause disease and illness in the physical body.  

This debris is a reliving of experiences from your past.  

When you experience an emotion, you process and gain an understanding of the emotion and release it.  With psychic debris, it just hangs on to you because you were either too young or too inexperienced to deal with the emotion at the time it happened.  

You must be careful during attunements to Reiki.  The debris you harbor can be released during the attunement, but it can linger and attach itself to someone else in the room.  You will learn to protect yourself while giving healing sessions.  Otherwise, you will start to feel the same emotions as the person you are trying to treat.  You will feel sick in your stomach, spinning, and dizziness.  As soon as you take the time to clear and balance yourself, you will be back to normal.  

Once you release the debris in your mental and emotional body, you will begin to think clearer and gain a deeper understanding of feelings and thoughts.  You also are opened up to positive changes in your life.  As the blockages are taken away, you will obtain a higher awareness level.



Your Reiki force will return to its normal flow once more.  This is an ongoing process and you must keep up with balancing and clearing yourself daily.  If you don't balance and clear yourself daily from the emotions you are obtaining from other people, they can cause a negative impact on your own system.  

This can be mental, emotional, or physical.  Even walking into a crowded elevator, you can sense fear, stress, anger, and happiness.  Make sure you learn to protect yourself against psychic debris.



Saturday, October 3, 2020

Start Now To Boost IMMUNITY For Winter

Cells of the innate immune system include mast...
Cells of the innate immune system include mast cells and natural killer cells, the phagocytes (monocytes, macrophages, and dendritic cells), and the granulocytes (neutrophils, eosinophils, and basophils). Each cell type is equipped with different mechanisms that allow it to attack and eliminate pathogens from the body. The innate immune cells demonstrate the immune system’s versatility. 

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)


It’s that time of year again where virus’ and bacteria’s run a-muck and play havoc on our bodies. The best time to start is now to prepare for the cold and flu season.

There is no magic bullet in creating a healthy immune system. The best place to start is eliminating junk foods and beverages from the diet. Adequate rest and moderate exercise are also important.

 There are certain supplements that are known for preventing sickness or taken during sickness to speed up recovery. Some of these are echinacea, goldenseal, elderberry, ginseng, astragalus, mullein leaves, yerba santa leaves, parthenium root, capsicum fruit, yarrow, pau d’arco bark, and colloidal or ionized silver.

There are much immune building multiple’s that contain many of the supplements mentioned above. The trick is to start taking 2 a day in September and continue till spring. Those with severely compromised immune systems may need more. There are homeopathic that are popular this time of year such as, Oscillococcinum. It is nature's # 1 flu medicine. Silver water is a natural antibiotic. Wild Mediterranean oregano oil is famous for knocking out viruses, bacteria, and fungus.

60% of our immune system is in our “gut”, therefore it is important to maintain an adequate amount of “friendly bacteria”. Most people supplement with acidophilus and bifidophilus to achieve this, for the typical American diet, antibiotics, and other prescription medications destroy these good bacteria.

Essential oils can also be used to enhance immunity. A disinfecting room mist can be made by taking a glass 4 oz. glass bottle with a sprayer and adding a total of  90 drops of each; rosemary, tea tree and peppermint essential oils and fill the rest with spring or distilled water. Shake 100 times and let it sit for 24 hrs before use.

 It does take a substantial effort to build immunity and achieve optimum health but….you and your family are worth it!!!  

In closing, I would suggest to anyone that you take your time, do your research, analyze your health status or needs, and then find the natural products to meet your needs. It something you can do for yourself, which leaves you with a very good understanding of your health care needs. Many people go through life relying solely on other people when it comes to their nutrition or health care needs. There are many good articles on the web, which can be very helpful and informative to you.


    This Article provided by Mike Comeau, is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease. Always consult your doctor when seeking medical advice.


Sunday, September 13, 2020

Guido Von List Discovers ARMANEN RUNES

Guido von List in 1878 from the book Guido v. ...
Guido von List in 1878
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)
ARMANEN RUNES
Rune symbols are very powerful. You can use them to enhance your life for the better. They are keys to the Creative Energies of the Universe. Guido Von List, the great German mystic and runemaster, gave us a new modern-day insight into the runes.

He had a very similar experience as Odin, the All-Father of the Norse Gods' head. Odin hung upside down on the Yggdrasil Tree for nine days and nine nights till he finally reached down and grasped the runes. From where?

Guido Von List has cataract surgery and as he lies in bed in a German hospital he had a similar experience.

In his semi-blind state, he also reached down and brought forth the 18 runes of the Armanen Futhork. Where did he and Odin reach down to get the runes?

Now that we are in the Age of Aquarius we have the answer. We now have the Laws of Quantum Physics. These laws simply state that there exists an infinite, intelligent ocean of thinking energy called the Quantum Ocean. Everything that ever was, is, or will exist there.

There is no time there. No past, present, or future. Only the "NOW!" There is no space there. Only the "HERE!" We live and move and have our being inside the "HERE-NOW!"

English: Guido von List's armanen runes arrang...
Guido von List's armanen runes arranged in a circle and given the numbers 1-18. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The runes exist in the Quantum Ocean now and have always existed there. They are the keys to the other energies within the Quantum Ocean.

The Quantum Ocean, in reality, is the Mind Of God. We can commune directly with the Mind of God with our thoughts. Thoughts are things. Thoughts are keys to the Universal Energies within the Quantum Ocean.

We can also communicate with the Mind of God, the Quantum Ocean through symbols. The rune symbols are the most powerful keys known to mankind. We can use them to attract health, wealth, and love into our own life.

There are many ways we can use the runes to attract the energies we want out of the Minds of God, the Quantum Ocean.

We can simply look at a rune symbol and make the mental radionics connection. We can meditate on them. We can breathe them into our aura. We can attach them to a radionics device. You can place them under an orgone generator. Or we can simply carry them with us of wearing them on our bodies.



Sunday, September 6, 2020

How to Attract Wealth With ARMANEN RUNE FA

ARMANEN RUNE FA

Remember to print out the large FA Rune on the page.

The Armanen Runes are keys to the Creative Energies of the Universe. Runes are symbols and therefore the most powerful tools available for you to use. There are three keys to the successful use of Armanen Runes.

(1)  Use only one rune at a time for your mediation, exercise, or rituals. Runes are like electronic Carrier waves. They carry more than one energy at a time within their symbolic matrix. For best results single out just ONE of the energies you wish to attract from the quantum ocean and into your life.

(2)  You must learn how to get the energies of the runes out of the quantum ocean and into your aura. What energies you carry in your aura attracts their physical counterpart into your life.

(3)  PATIENCE. The energies contained within the runic energy matrix will instantly appear at the periphery of your aura. There is no nor space in the quantum ocean, only the "here-now." So when you contact the runic energies in the quantum ocean they automatically appear near you. What stops them from automatically entering your aura are the false negative energy matrices you have built up. Your fear of success, love, or wrong health ideas is in your aura. You have unconsciously placed them there. They are like a solid brick wall stopping the runic energies from entering you. This is the most important fact that others don't tell you. You are stopping your own health, wealth, and love.

BUT, runic energies are very powerful and they will slowly and steadily breakthrough and dissolve the negative blockages from your aura. This is guaranteed. It is part of the Laws of Quantum Physics. All you need to do is be PATIENT and don't doubt.

The Laws of Quantum Physics tell us that everything that is, was, or ever will exist in an infinite ocean of intelligent energy called the Quantum Ocean. The runes exist there and have always existed there.

Guido Von List manifested the 18 rune Armanen Futhork out of the Quantum Ocean in the 20Th century. They are fresh and powerful and have not been polluted like the 24 rune futhork that has been popularized by so many want to be runemasters and magicians. Blume really put the final nail in the coffin of the 24 rune futhark with his BLANK RUNE. There is no such runic energy matrix in the quantum ocean that stands for NOTHING!

To get more information about the Armanen Runes surf the net and read about these three Armanen Rune Masters. Siegfried Adolf Kumer, Rudolf John Gorseleben and Guido Von List. Don't forget the most modern rune master, Karl Hans Welz.

You must learn to get the Rune FA into your aura to attract the money you desire. We are energy beings and what energies we carry in our auras attracts their physical counterparts into our life. Money energy in your aura = money in your pockets.

Learn to breathe in the runic energies. Take the rune symbol at the bottom of this page and hold it in front of you. Get quiet and take a deep breath while looking at the rune.

Mentally intone" "I am now breathing in the money attracting the energy of Rune FA out of the quantum ocean and into my aura." Do this three times. Then go about your business and give the runic energy time to work on your aura.



How long? One day? One week? One year? How many blockages do you have? Have thick is your wall? PATIENCE. Repeat this every day and reinforce it constantly without a doubt.

By looking at the FA rune and consciously breathing it in you are actually touching the rune FA money energy in the quantum ocean. You are thinking about it. What you think about you attract.

The money energy of the FA rune will be there at the edge of your aura awaiting entrance. It will work its way in. The money will be attracted to you. REPETITION AND PATIENCE!

    Ellis Peterson AKA Ragnar Storyteller  -  Article Directory: EzineArticles


Sunday, August 30, 2020

Sex in GUIDED RELAXATION

English: A couple performing sexual intercours...
A couple performing sexual intercourse from a seated position. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Amazingly, studies recently showed that those who are actively sexual could reduce stress. This does not mean running out and have sex with multiple partners, rather engage in intimate relationships with someone you trust. In recent studies, couples were asked to define how sex relieved stress. According to results, the couples claimed that sex relaxed the mind and body. The couples felt less stress after and during math tests and public speeches they were able to relax and stay alert. 

According to the studies outlined by news, reports intercourse relaxed the body and mind. The studies showed that masturbation relieved stress to a degree more so than those who did not engage in such actions did. Still, those who had intercourse relieving stress more so than those who masturbated did. According to the studies, blood pressure quickly returned to its normal level after intercourse. 

The studies showed that the men and women who did not have sex had higher blood pressure than those who did. Sex has proven to relieve stress. It makes sense. Men and women were intended to express intimacy in a life long relationship. For this reason, sex is involved which should be enjoyed at both party's convenience. Of course, both couples must enjoy the activity to relieve stress. Some people do not enjoy sex, which causes them stress to think of engaging in intimacy. 

After sex, a person often feels relaxed. During the night, the person finds it easier to sleep. Morning sex is enjoyable, yet it can drain the energy, thus strenuous sex in the wake hours should be avoided. Enjoy mild, soft, and passionate sexual relations at this time. 

Sex is relaxing. If you enjoy sex experts, tell us that engaging in this activity twice daily is great exercise and helps to relax the mind and body. If this is true then we have guided relaxation through intimacy. So why are people still searching for answers to relieve stress? 

In the periodical that exposed that sex relieves stress, the authors mentioned that oxytocin when released could promote healthy functions, such as that of the physiology aspects. Oxytocin assists organisms. It is clear that when a person releases through organisms that tension expels from the body. The person feels a sense of relief. Still, what about the psychological aspects, i.e. what happens to the mind if a person engages in illicit sexual release. It is evident by past records that illicit sexual encounters only lead to disaster. We see this in disease, divorce, and so on. Thus, we see that engaging in sex requires that we uphold morals, standards, and values that make us humans. 



To uphold the rules of humanity we see that stress can be relieved through intimacy. Intimacy is between a man and a woman. At what time the two join in intimacy they express love, affection, and desire for the other. If you noted love, affection, and desire you would see the positive influences that lead them to guided relaxation. When sex is relentless, or when love, affections, and intimacy is not involved, how can it relieve stress? 

Logically you would see the tension build when emotions start to recall emptiness inside. For this reason, we must consider the aspects of sex that makes us feel relaxed. Those aspects again are love, affection, and a desire to love one another. When you have positive influences during sex, you have a guarantee that stress will relax. To learn more about sex and guided relaxation, women we encourage you to learn how sex can help you live longer. 




Sunday, August 23, 2020

The Beauty in REIKI HEALING

The Reiki Distance Healing symbol Honshazeshon...
The Reiki Distance Healing symbol Honshazeshonen also spelled Hon Sha Ze Sho Nen and abbreviated HSZSN. 

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)
In a stressed out world like what we have today, more and more people are opting for other treatments other than using medications to help them achieve a more stable level of thinking and emotions. This is because they have noticed that the more they depend on medication and treatments related to it, the more they feel weak, stressed out, and sick.

So, instead of suffering from the side effects of various medications, many people opt for a more traditional treatment such as Reiki healing.

Founded on the significant benefits of the human touch, Reiki healing is preferred by more and more people especially those who are suffering from terminal cases and illnesses-because it provides a more "human" approach to healing. Since it is more soothing and comforting that the number of apparatus that are used in various hospitals and medical centers, Reiki healing has become an option to people who are tired of relying on medical treatments.

What sets this alternative therapy from the modern form of healing today is the more "human" feel into it. Many people prefer this because it lessens the depression they feel brought the illness or emotional pains knowing that a person/people understand what are they going through.

How Reiki healing works

Reiki healing works through the use of the never-ending cycle of love energy in people. Reiki healing utilizes the innate life force energy flowing in each individual and converts it into a more productive energy force.

Transferred from one person to another, this life energy force can heal a person's emotional imbalance, heals the dying spirit, and calms the mind. If it cannot be channeled from one person to another during a Reiki class, an individual can also use it alone especially if there's a great need to boost a person's morale or spirit.


Reiki healing can be a perfect key in solving people's personal predicaments if only they give it a try. Unlike modern medications that can cost so much money along with numerous side effects, Reiki healing would not rob you off so much money especially if you have mastered it for yourself.

The only expenses you'll be needing to achieve the benefits of Reiki healing is the fee for enrolment in a Reiki class and references such as magazines and books for practicing Reiki.

For Reiki healing to work properly and effectively, a person must first be able to achieve a higher will. When a person has a high will, it can enable somebody to set aside his or her self-centered intentions. Once this is done, a person can experience a blissful encounter with his or herself and can share this wonderful feeling of healing and contentment with other people.

Reiki healing can also be more effective when a person can channel or transfer his or her energy to those people in need. Once a person can do this, he or she will be accredited to a higher level, which can enable him or her to achieve peacefulness, calmness, and optimism in life.

In Reiki healing, the life force energy is channeled or transferred from one person to another through attunement. Usually takes place in Reiki classes and supervised by a Reiki master, this transfer of life force energy is remotely done to ensure its success.

Aside from healing a person's spirit, Reiki also helps a person to balance his or her priorities in life to achieve a more relaxed and content life.


Sunday, August 16, 2020

Basic ORIGAMI Folds Terms & Techniques

English: How to fold a paper fortune teller 12...
How to fold a paper fortune teller 12 steps (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
As with any other craft, origami has its own terms and techniques.  Here are some basic horizontal and vertical folds.  It is very important to keep all your folds crisp and clean. 

The Book - fold a piece of paper (rectangular or square) down the middle vertically making certain the opposite edges line up one on top of the other.  For many origami figures, you will need to add another book figure - open the paper and make another fold across the middle horizontally again, making sure the edges lie one on top of the other.   If you don't open the book before making the second fold you end up with the handkerchief fold which gives you a small square with four layers of paper one on top of the other.  

The Cupboard - using a square piece of paper make the book fold then open the paper and take each outside edge and fold it to the centerline.  By bringing each edge over to the next line you will end up making even more equal vertical stripes.

The Fan - with either a square or rectangular piece of paper fold a Cupboard.  Open the Cupboard; three valley folds (downward angles) divide the Cupboard into four equal-sized strips.  Turn the figure over; fold the edges onto the outer lines making two mountain folds.  Turn the figure over and refold the Cupboard.  Turn the Cupboard over once again and fold the edges into the middle line resulting in two mountain folds (upward angles). Fold up the figure and you have made an eightfold fan with alternating mountain and valley folds, also called an accordion fold.

The Lattice - make a Cupboard from a square piece of paper.  Open the Cupboard and repeat the procedure folding in a horizontal direction.  Open the paper and you have the Lattice.  It is 16 equal-sized squares used to make boxes, houses, and simple animal bodies. 

The Shawl - Make a diagonal fold down the middle of a square piece of paper making sure your edges and corners lay on top of each other.   If you need a second diagonal fold open the sheet of paper completely before starting the second fold to get a more exact line.

The Envelope - using a square piece of paper make diagonal folds down the center in both directions.  Open the paper and bring each corner up to the middle.



The Picture Frame - First make the Envelope.  Open the envelope; turn each corner up to the outer diagonal line.  Now fold the four corners inward and you have a picture frame. 

Heaven and Hell - Fold an Envelope.  Turn the Envelope over and fold each corner up into the center again.  Turn the figure over and you will see pockets on the other side.  Open these pockets.  This figure was dubbed Heaven and Hell because it was usually made on red and blue paper.  This particular fold can be used for making simple hand puppets and animal heads



Sunday, August 2, 2020

How KARATE Can Help With MEDITATION

Français : Méditation avant le cours de karaté...
Meditation before the karate class 
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)


Although the ancient origins of karate are somewhat unclear to us, The one thing I can tell you is that about 1400 years ago, while teaching at the Shaolin Temple in China, Daruma Daishi used techniques that were similar to karate. Later these techniques developed into forms of karate known as Shaolin Boxing.

You need a clear mind to use Karate and meditating is the best way to clear your mind when you are in a sport such as a karate. In 1955 one of Master Funakoshi's last direct pupils cam to the United States and was the first person to teach karate in this country. That same year he put together the Southern California Karate Association, which has grown over several years to now become a national non-profit organization. 

As I meditated I continued to learn more about karate. I learned in 1961, which happens to be my year of birth, Mr Caylor Adkins, One of Mr Ohshima's first black belts, began attending CSULB and soon formed the school's first karate club. In 1968 after being gone for a while he returned to CSULB along with a gentleman named Mr Don Depree. Mr Depree carried on the tradition and led the growing club until the year 1992, when he entrusted the leadership of the club to Mr Samir Abboud.

Still keeping my mind clear by meditating I learned that Mr Samir Abboud was a continuing student of Don Depree since the year of 1969. Samir was the CSUBL captain of the karate club and assistant instructor to Mr Don Depree for many years. Through meditation children and adults learn breathing techniques that help them concentrate on karate. When first starting karate you will want to start with the beginner's belt. The purpose of this level is orientation.





Students will be taught the general structure of the class, basic commands, the importance of self-defence and some basic combinations of self-defence moves. By concentration with meditation, the student will learn to be familiar with and to perform any of the moves on the curriculum sheet. The students also should be able to stand in a Chunbi position for 1minute without moving. Minimal proficiency will be required.

The practising time 5-10 minutes 3-4 times a week will be plenty for the beginners level. It will usually take 4-6 weeks to start your next belt. So whether you are a child or an adult learning karate for whatever reason, remember the key to karate is first using your breathing techniques and your meditation will help you to practice your breathing.

Meditation books are also very helpful if you are interested in learning more about meditation just go to your local library and check some of them out. Take time out to study meditation and you could be feeling much better real soon, which is something that most of us all want for ourselves. Good luck and remember that keeping a positive attitude can really make a difference in your stress levels. Please take time out for yourself for meditation. 



Sunday, July 26, 2020

A Basic Guide to AIKIDO

English: Aikido: nikyo omote (second principle...
Aikido: nikyo omote (second principle)
(Photo credit: 
Wikipedia)
Aikido is a unique form of martial art. Its emphasis lies on the harmonious fusion of mind and body with the natural laws of Nature. Aikido focuses on accepting and respecting the energy of life and nature and channeling this harmony onto techniques that expresses this energy in physical forms. 

Aikido is often viewed as more of a defensive martial art since its techniques and teachings are designed for you to avoid or get out of trouble. On the contrary, Aikido's techniques are very powerful and effective.

Basically, there are four levels of technique in Aikido training. These are the katai which refers to the basic training and is intended to build the foundation of body movements and breathing; the yawarakai trains the defendant to deflect attacks and fuse movements to take control of the attacker or situation; the ki-no-nagare which involves training the defendant to defend or counter attack by merging his movement with the attacker even before the latter makes contact; and the ki which is the absolute Aikido technique and involves establishing a link of ki or spirit from the defender to the attacker. 

When training for Aikido, you need a sparring partner. The uke and the nage. The Uke is the initiator of the attack and receives the Aikido techniques, while the Nage is the defender and the one that neutralizes the attack. 

Aikido basic techniques include ikky which involves control an attacker by placing one hand on the elbow and one on near the wrist giving an opportunity to throw the attacker to the ground; the niky which draws in the uke using a wristlock and twists the arm while applying painful nerve pressure; sanky which is a rotating technique aimed at applying a spiralling tension on the whole arm including the elbow and shoulder; yonky a shoulder control technique with both hands gripping the forearm; goky is another variant of ikky



wherein the hand gripping the wrist is inverted and is quite useful in weapon take-aways; shihnage or the four-direction throw; kotegaeshi or wrist return which involves a wristlock-throw that stretches the extensor digitorum; kokynage also known as breath throws or timing throws; iriminage or entering-body throws which resembles a "clothesline" technique; tenchinage or heaven-and-earth throw; koshinage or the Aikido's version of the hip throw; jinage or the shaped-like-'ten'-throw; and kaitennage or rotation throw wherein the nage sweeps the arm of the uke back until it locks the shoulder joint after which the nage applies forward pressure to throw the attacker. 

These are just basic techniques and from the list, thousands of possible implementations or combinations can be drawn by the aikidokas. In Aikido, the strikes employed during the implementation of the Aikido technique are called atemi. For beginners, grabs are the first ones to be taught. It is safer and the aikidoka can easily feel the energy flowing from the uke to the nage. 

Among the basic grab techniques are the katate-dori or single-hand-grab which involves using one hand to grab one wrist; morote-dori or both-hands-grab which uses both hands to grab one wrist; ryte-dori another both-hands-grab technique wherein both hands are used to grab both wrists; kata-dori or the shoulder-grab technique; and the mune-dori or chest-grab which involves grabbing the clothing of the chest of the attacker.  

Mastering each technique involves discipline and dedication. To be a good aikodoka, one must master both the techniques and principle of martial art.



Sunday, July 19, 2020

CHINESE HERBS- A General Synopsis of the Properties of the Herbs

Some elements for Médecine chinoise in Xi'an
Some elements for Médecine chinoise in Xi'an (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
The marvels of Chinese herbs have continued to charm and help people all over the world for a very long time. Almost all medicines have been created by mixing them in different quantities and proportions. The Chinese herb logy is a vast field that consists of numerous types of herbs possessing a wide range of properties and specialties.

Chinese herb basically possesses a specific taste, temperature, and certain special characteristics. The basic tastes are sweet, bitter, salty, pungent, bland, astringent, and aromatic. Some are known to poses herbs are mixed together on the basis of their tastes and temperatures.

Sweet herbs are sticky in nature and if they are mixed with a cold herb they are useful in creating a medicine that is useful for fluids. The yin property allows the energy of the body to be restored and also cure stomach and urine problems. The sweet herbs are sticky so they help in clogging the misplaced elements of the body. The bitter taste herb possesses the quality of dryness. 

So whenever there is a defiance of yin in the body this herb is used to cure the problem. The pungent herbs assist in the movement functions of the body. When this herb is mixed with a cold herb it is useful in solving joint problems and regulating the other movements of the body. The salty herb poses the quality of codifying and dissolve. It is mostly obtained from the marine world which is why the salt content is high in these herbs. Whereas the astringent herb is useful in supplying useful components to the body.



Apart from these properties herbs also poses properties such as hotness, coolness, coldness, warmth, and neutral. All these are combined with the above-mentioned herbs to give you the best medicine for your problem.    


Sunday, July 12, 2020

The History of FENG SHUI

Feng Shui is the art of placing and situating a structure so it is in harmony with nature. Also known as “Kanyu”, cultural and social issues are influenced by cosmological, metaphysical, and natural factors.

English: Zentao symbol as evolution of the Tao...
Zentao symbol as evolution of the Tao
(Yin Yang) and the Five Elements of Feng Shui.
(Photo credit: 
Wikipedia)
To use this ancient technique, you have to understand the influence of cosmology on earth. You should also have knowledge of how astronomy and astrology influence the placement of buildings. You also need to understand Confucian classic, the weathering process, the forces of nature, the magnetic fields, and how these all influence us. If you think about it, that is a lot to study.

The history of Feng Shui originated in the West Han dynasty around the third century BC. Those who practice it believe that the earth is alive with energy. If people built a structure on land that has revitalizing energy, then they would prosper. If this is placed in a site with bad energy, misfortune will occur.

Originally, Feng Shui was used to help place tombs for those who have died rather than for building homes for the living. Back then, they believed that choosing a good burial site will bring peace and prosperity to those who remained here on earth.

The instrument used to select the correct burial site was known as the “Lo Pan.” This invention was traced back to the Yellow Emperor where it is said that the “Lady of the Nine Heavens” gave him this knowledge.

This ancient compass was called the Hin Shi and is described as a square base called a diviner’s board, holding a bowl of water that floated a magnetic south-pointing spoon. The Hin Shi then developed into the “Lo Pan” and during the Sang Dynasty, this was used to navigate at sea. When this was brought to Europe somewhere during the 13th Century, this was better known as the compass which helped navigators explore the rest of the world.

But going back to Feng Shui, if the “Lo Pan” can be used to pick good burial sites, couldn’t it do the same for erecting buildings where people could live? The answer is yes and so this device was now used to analyze the orientations in a relationship to the main door, the bed and the stove.

Since then, both the rich and the poor incorporate this in their architecture. Archeological studies have shown that ancient Chinese city planners were made in concentric rectangles surrounded by walls that were then surrounded by lakes, hills, valleys, gardens, courtyards and parks which were to enhance positive energy.

As for buildings, these were constructed to enhance a healthy relationship between family members and the country.

This is where Yin and Yang come in which is considered to be the foundation of the universe. Coming from Taoism, these two are complete opposites that cannot exist without the other.

For them, the left side of the building must represent Yang or the male force while Yin or the female force is on the right.

Examples of Yang in the past included sunlit roofs, built areas and an elevation in the front. For Yin, there must be empty areas, shadowed eaves, set back structures and elevations in the back.

The history of Feng Shui was almost forgotten when the communists took over in 1949. If it wasn’t for the masters who practiced it and shipped it out to Hong Kong or China, we would have never known it existed. Feng Shui made its way to the US only in the 1970s. Various articles and shows have focused on it and people now use it to help in building a house or a building.



Sunday, July 5, 2020

Making CHUNK CANDLES

Christmas Chunk Candle
Photo Flickr - Liz
Chunk candles add a great alternative to the standard pillar candle of yesterday. These colorful candles add a vibrancy and life to them. Looking at chunk candles, they appear to be very difficult to make. However, just the opposite is true. In fact, many candle makers claim they are easier to make than basic pillar candles. This is because pillar candles have to be perfectly smooth. If they aren’t, it is easy to see the visual defect. Such blemishes aren’t visible in chunk candles. While chunk candles aren’t recommended as a beginner project, they can be made once you know the basics of the candle making process.


There are two phases to making chunk candles. To make the process easier, it is recommended that you keep the two separate. Attempts to cut corners often result in chunk candles that are of poor quality and don’t burn well. The first phase of the project is making the chunks. The second is the process of turning those chunks into gorgeous candles. Some individuals choose to purchase pre-cut chunks at craft stores or online.

To make your candles their prettiest, select colors that compliment each other. To start making the color chunks, spray a cookie sheet with a non-stick cooking spray. You only want a thin film on the cooking sheet. After the wax you are using has completely melted, add color to it as well as any fragrance you want. Pour the mix onto the cookies sheet. Fill the sheet to the level you want the depth of your candle chunks to be.

Keep an eye on the cooling color chunks. Once it is the consistency of cookie dough you will want to use a sharp utility knife to cut it into chunks. Allow the chunks to continue cooling. If you are making several colors of chunks you can mix them together or leave them separate. Some people choose to let the colors mix together on their own while others like to create a design by adding the amount of each color they want.

Using the same molds that are used for pillar candles, insert your candle wick through the bottom of the candle mold. Fill the mold loosely with color chunks. You can put one color on the bottom with another color on top or even layers of three colors. You can also use only one color. The choice is all yours. Do not stack as many chunks as you can in the mold or the candle won’t form properly. Just toss them in and let them lay where they end up.

You are now ready to pour the melted wax over the color chunks. It is recommended that you do leave the melted wax colorless, but some people choose to add a light color to tint it and add a uniqueness to their chunk candles. As the candle cools, the chunks will adhere to together with the hot wax. Once the molds cool the chunk candles should slide out with ease.

Making chunk candles is really quite simple if you have the basic candle making concepts under your belt. These candles add flair to any décor as well as make great gifts. They are a bit more time consuming to make since you will be making your color chunks, but well worth the results. Remember that you can purchase color chunks to save you time. That is a great option for someone who plans to make large quantities of chunk candles.



For those who want to get even more creative, consider using embeds on the sides. You can place them in the candle molds first. They will stay in place once you put the chunks in the mold. You can adjust the embeds as needed prior to adding the hot wax to the mold. There are excellent books available on the various patterns and embeds you can add to make specific chunk candles. There are also great pictures and step by step instructions available on the internet.


Sunday, June 28, 2020

A Quick Guide to HYPNOTHERAPY

English: Sascha Schneider, Hypnosis, 1904 Deut...
Sascha Schneider, Hypnosis, 1904 
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Hypnosis has been around for thousands of years. From ancient Egyptian times even through today, hypnotism has been used in religion, medicine, mental therapy, and even entertainment. Patients often undergo hypnosis to help release stress or to overcome certain challenges in their lives such as smoking habits, obesity, anorexia, bulimia, insomnia, depression, and other conditions.

Hypnotherapy is similar to psychotherapy except it is undertaken when the patient is in a state of hypnosis. Hypnotherapy is meant to help modify the patient's behavior, attitude, and emotional state for positive life changes. Hypnotherapy is usually performed by a professional hypnotherapist. In many cases, the hypnotherapist will train the patient in self-hypnosis so the patient can benefit from hypnotherapy at any time when needed.

What Happens During Hypnosis?

Before the actual hypnosis begins, both the patient and the trained hypnotherapist agree to the process. Hypnosis cannot be forced on the patient. There will usually be an informal talk between the two with questions and answers as well as an explanation of what is about to take place.

Next is the actual hypnosis. The hypnotherapist leads with his or her voice to gently guide the patient into a state of relaxation in mind and body. The patient may appear to be asleep, but is awake enough to be aware of what's going on - especially in the parts of the mind that can effect beneficial changes. The patient is led into comforting, pleasant thoughts and begins to daydream about happy times or hopes for the future.

When under hypnosis, the patient often feels very relaxed. It's similar to the warm comfort of a bed when one is very sleepy. The patient can terminate the session at any time if he or she begins to feel uncomfortable. When the session ends, the patient is able to ask questions and discuss the experience of hypnosis.




Hypnosis Today


Today, there are many different ways people can enjoy the benefits of hypnotherapy. They don't even have to leave their homes to take advantage of hypnosis. There are Internet sites that offer guides and tips on hypnosis, along with hypnosis training for those who want to become a trained hypnotist.

For self-hypnosis, there are great products available online, such as hypnosis MP3s and hypnosis CDs. With these tools, a person is able to enjoy the long-term benefits of hypnosis without paying high costs to visit a trained hypnotherapist.

These products are very helpful when times of stress arise or when you just needs a boost of self-confidence. They are fast, easy, safe and effective tools to help you tackle common life situations. On hypnosis MP3s and hypnosis CDs, the messages are positive and subliminal, offering exact trance-inducing frequencies. The hypnosis MP3 files are downloadable onto an iPod or MP3 player so you can take it with you wherever they go.

Hypnosis and hypnotherapy are not cure-all solutions, but they can be helpful in renewing your positive outlook on life and learning to overcome obstacles.