Ayurvedic Approach to Indigestion and Concept of Agni

The word Indigestion is commonly used to describe the discomfort in one's belly mostly caused after food consumption. Fullness, bloating, nausea, heart burn are other symptoms of Indigestion.

Before discussing Indigestion, understanding the process of digestion is very essential. The Ayurveda approach of explaining digestion is very simple and effective. The food we eat is digested by Agni or body fire which is present in our body. It is very much similar to the way we cook the food. The Agni or body fire helps to digest the food which is consumed, much like the fire of a stove cooks the food kept on it. The Agni is mainly situated in Jatara or in upper part of digestive system and is called as Jataragni. The Agni is further categorized as Bhootagni (which digests the 5 pancha mahabhoota factors present in food), Dhatwagni (The Agni present in tissues which help them to absorb required nutrients), Malagni ( the Agni which helps in formation of body wastes like stools, sweat and urine) . The Jataragni controls bhootagni, dhatwagni and malagni. Through this it is evident that ayurveda approach of digestion explains cellular metabolism too.

The factors which help Agni to digest the food completely: Thridoshas -Vata , Pitta and Kapha help Agni to digest the food.

If the process of digestion is compared to that of cooking rice, the stomach, like the vessel., receives food. Vata provides the necessary conditions like the air blower, Pitta acts like the stove, providing optimum working conditions while Kapha provides the moisture needed much like the water in the vessel. When all these factors are normal and well balanced, an optimum condition is created to digest the food completely.

When food is completely digested by all the Agnis, the body tissues will be well nourished and one is blessed with attractive complexion, glow, longevity, strength, good health, growth, enthusiasm, vitality and overall healthy development of body and mind.

The indigestion occurs when Agni is imbalanced by the factors (tridoshas) which help Agni to digest food. The variations of Agni due to tridoshas are of 4 types.

Samagni (balanced Agni): The Agni which is well balanced due to balanced tridoshas indicate the condition called Samagni . Samagni digests the food completely and nourishes the body tissues very well.

Vishamaagni (varying Agni): When vata is predominant this condition surfaces. The regular food gets digested normally on some occasions and poorly on others. Vata increasing foods and lifestyles lead to this condition. This variation of Agni causes constipation, flatulence, pain in abdomen and other vata predominant diseases. The indigestion caused by this type of Agni is called Vistabdhajeerna

Teekshnagni (increased Agni): This variation of Agni occurs due to predominance of pitta. Pitta increasing foods and lifestyle cause this variation. This variation of Agni causes increased hunger, thirst, acidity, heart burn and loose motions. The indigestion thus caused is called as Vidagdajeerna.

Mandagni (decreased Agni): As increased moistness reduces the intensity of fire, the increased kapha reduces the intensity of Agni. Kapha increasing foods and lifestyle cause this variation. Feeling Heaviness of body, swelling of eyelids (lower), belching which emit the smell of food consumed and water brash are few symptoms which of indigestion caused by mandagni. The indigestion caused by mandagni is called as amajeerna.

The decreased Agni improperly digests the food and this indigested food is sticky in nature and improperly nourishes tissues, causing weakness of body. This sticky improperly digested food is called ama. Ama due to its sticky nature blocks the channels of body, vitiate doshas , contaminates tissues, imbalance body functions and cause diseases.

Causes of imbalance of Agni which lead to indigestion

1. Spicy foods, chilly, oily foods, medicines, milk and milk products, tobacco and alcohol.
2. Irregular food habits and sleeping patterns.
3. Medications like pain killers, antibiotics, oral contraceptives and steroids.
4. Intestinal parasites.
5. Diseases of pancreas, liver, gall bladder, intestinal infections etc.
6. During pregnancy, premenstrual period, menopausal period in women.
7. Emotional upset like anxiety, stress, examination, family tensions, etc.

Home Remedies for Indigestion

1. Fasting completely for one day helps to normalize imbalanced agni and digest ama.
2. Consuming liquid foods, boiled vegetables or fruit juices for 2- 3 days also improves Agni and relieves indigestion.
3. Avoid the factors (mentioned above) which cause indigestion.
4. Mix a tea spoon of lemon juice, tea spoon ginger juice and little salt in a cup of water and consume thrice daily.
5. Drinking glass of warm water once in 2 hours increases Agni and digests ama.
6. Cook cup of rice with 4 cups of water with crushed ginger and salt. Powder long pepper (2 or 3)and fry it in a spoon of cow's ghee and add it to gruel. Consume this when it hot. This is very light to digest and relieves colic pain.
7. Abdominal Massage also helps to relieve indigestion. It loosens the tight muscles and increases the blood supply to digestive system.

Consuming well balanced food which keeps doshas and Agni in balanced condition always keeps body healthy and free from diseases.

Indian Board of Alternative Medicine
80, Chowringhee Road
Calcutta - 700002
India
http://www.altmedworld.net

Baldness (Alopecia) and Alopacia Areata and its Ayurvedic Management

Hair loss or baldness is usually caused because of genetics (inherited tendency), disease, medications, stress, injury or damage to the hair. Generalized hair loss is termed Alopecia whereas small, circular bald patches are termed as Alopecia Areata. The two conditions have been clubbed here together because of similarity of symptoms, and the Ayurvedic principles of treatment for both are described here. It is noteworthy to mention here that treatment is usually effective for premature hair loss, and where the cause is amenable to treatment.

In Ayurveda, baldness is termed as "Khalitya" in Ayurveda. Alopecia areata is termed as "Indralupta". Ayurvedic herbal treatment is aimed at treating known causes, immuno-restoration, treating the local scalp condition and reducing stress.
Ayurveda Treatment:

1. Local Treatment
Medicated oils are used for local application. Some of the commonly used oils are: Vranashodhan oil, Bhrungraj (Eclipta alba) oil, Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) oil, Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri) oil, Jaswand (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) oil, Vatajatadi oil and Bhallatak (Semicarpus anacardium) oil. Some Ayurvedic physicians use leech therapy at the bald spots before using the above mentioned local medications. Some advise a course of enemas of medicated milk (called as "Tikta-Ksheer Basti") in conditions of extensive hair loss.

2. Immunomodulators

Some medicines which are used orally are: Arogya Vardhini, Gandhak Rasayan, Laxadi Guggulu, Rasayan [ a combination of Gokshur(Tribulus terrestris), Amalaki (Emblica officinalis) and Guduchi (Tinospora cordifolia)].

Ayurveda believes hair to originate from the "Asthi" or bone tissue, and therefore, to treat hair loss, medicines to strengthen bone are given orally on a long-term basis. Some medicines used for this purpose are: Pancha Tikta Ghruta, Mahatikta Ghruta, Praval Panchamruta, Laxa and Asthishrunkhla (Cissus quadrangularis). Milk and black gram are advised for consumption in large quantities.

Medicines like Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), Shankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis) and Vacha(Acorus calamus) are given orally to reduce stress.

3. Detoxification (Panchakarma) Treatment

It is believed that regular application of medicated oils in the nose (a procedure called "Pratimarsha Nasya") has an important role to play in preventing premature baldness and graying of hair. Anu oil and Panchendriya Vardhan oil are usually used for this procedure.

Indian Board of Alternative Medicine
80, Chowringhee Road
Calcutta - 700002
India
http://www.altmedworld.net

Anti-Cancer Herbs

Triphala :

How It Works

Bottom Line: The anticancer effect of Triphala has not been confirmed in humans.

Triphala is an herbal formulation used in the Indian medicinal system of Ayurveda for the treatment of various ailments. It consists of three medicinal plants: Emblica officinalis, Terminalia chebula, and Terminalia belerica. It is used for anemia, jaundice, constipation, asthma, fever, chronic ulcers, inflammation, obesity and to strengthen the immune system against infections such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and AIDS. Triphala was shown to have beneficial effects in studies done in laboratory and in animals. However human data are lacking.

Purported Uses

• To treat Infections. Studies done in mice showed that Triphala can reduce infections. No studies have been done in humans.
• To decrease high levels of cholesterol. Triphala was shown to reduce cholesterol levels in rats with high cholesterol. However, this has not been studied in humans.
• To strengthen the immune system. Studies in rats have shown that Triphala can improve immune function but human data are lacking.
Research Evidence

Several laboratory studies have shown that Triphala has beneficial effects. However, it has not been studied in humans.

Side Effects

Intestinal gas Stomach upset Diarrhea.

Constituents

Amla (Emblica officinalis) Myrobalan (Terminalia chebula) Belleric Myrobalan (Terminalia belerica).

Mechanism of Action

The exact mechanism of action is not known although the polyphenols and flavonoids are thought to be responsible for many of Triphala's effects. Gallic acid, a major polyphenol in Triphala, has antioxidant property. Triphala also increased the reactive oxygen species (ROS) in breast cancer cells (MCF-7 and T-47D), resulting in apoptosis. Terminalia chebula, one of the components of Triphala, was shown to be a potent hyaluronidase and collagenase inhibitor that prevented degradation of cartilage. Triphala also protected mice from radiation-induced mortality. Oral administration of Triphala enhanced the immune functions in rats.

Adverse Reactions
Intestinal gas, stomach upset, diarrhea.

Ashwagandha : How It Works

Bottom Line: While ashwagandha has shown an ability to hinder the growth of cancer cells in laboratory tests and enhance radiation therapy in animals, it is unknown if these effects can be replicated in humans.

A popular Ayurvedic medicinal substance derived from the root and berry of the plant. Ashwagandha contains numerous biologically active components. It is thought that some of these components can influence potent hormone-like substances that cause arthritis inflammation. Extracts of the root also increase the number of red and white blood cells and platelets in the blood. Ashwagandha has been shown to relax the central nervous system in animals. Studies in laboratories have shown that extracts of ashwagandha kill some cancer cells and enhance some immune cells. It is thought that the structure of ashwagandha extracts may damage the cancer cells ability to generate the energy it needs to reproduce. Ashwagandha also reduces the level of glutathione, an antioxidant, in tumor cells which may enhance the effects of radiation therapy against those cells. Studies in animals have demonstrated possible toxicity, however comparable effects have not been observed in humans.

Purported Uses

To treat cancer

While ashwagandha has shown promise in animal and laboratory studies, few trials have demonstrated an effect in humans.

To treat diabetes
No scientific evidence supports this use.

To treat epilepsy
No scientific evidence supports this use.

To reduce fatigue
Ashwagandha has been shown to increase blood cell counts in the lab, however it is unclear if this will reduce fatigue in humans.

To treat digestive disorders
No scientific evidence supports this use.

To maintain health
Ashwagandha has antioxidant properties in lab tests, however it is unclear if it will have any effect on humans.

To reduce pain
Ashwagandha has been shown to have a tranquilizing effect in animals. It is unclear if this will reduce pain in humans.

To treat rheumatoid arthritis
A clinical trial showed effectiveness of a herbomineral formula containing ashwagandha. To what extent ashwagandha played a role in the reduction in pain severity and disability is unclear.

As a sedative
Ashwagandha has been shown to have a tranquilizing effect in animals. It is unclear if it has a similar effect in humans.

To treat skin infections
No scientific evidence supports this use.

To relieve stress
Ashwagandha has been shown to have a tranquilizing effect in animals. It is unclear if it has a similar effect in humans.

Research Evidence

Arthritis Pain:

Forty-two volunteers with osteoarthritis participated in a trial of a herbomineral formula containing ashwagandha. Volunteers were randomly assigned to receive either a combination of herbs and minerals or placebo for three months. After a fifteen-day washout period, treatments were reversed. Volunteers in the treatment group reported significant drops in pain severity and disability score with few side effects. Because a combination of herbs was used, it is unclear if ashwagandha played an important role in the results.

Warnings: Do Not Take If

You are pregnant.
(Ashwagandha may induce abortion.)

You are You are taking sedatives.
(Ashwagandha may increase sedative effects.)

Scientific Name : Withania somnifera.

Family: Solanaceae

Constituents

Alkanoids: isopelletierine, anaferine
Steroidal lactones: withanolides, withaferins
Saponins: sitoindoside VII and VIII Iron

Mechanism of Action

Alkaloids, steroidal lactones, saponins and withanolides are thought to be the biologically active components. Studies have pointed to cyclooxygenase inhibition as the cause of the herb's anti-arthritis properties. Ashwagandha's anti-inflammatory effects were comparable to hydrocortisone sodium succinate in rats. The root extract of the herb produced significant increases in hemoglobin concentration, red blood cell count, white blood cell count and platelet count. Ashwagandha has been shown to exhibit antioxidant effects in the brain and to have a tranquilizing effect on the central nervous system in animals. In vitro, isolates from the root of the plant have cytotoxic properties against H-460, HCT-116, SF-268 and MCF-7 cell lines. Ashwagandha increase cytotoxic T lymphocyte production. Other studies show ashwagandha's cytotoxicity is related to its structure and that it enhances ATPase and inhibits succinate dehydrogenase activity, impairing oxidative phosphorylation. In animal studies, ashwagandha can increase the effects of radiation therapy and inhibits tumor growth. The herb also reduces tumor GSH levels which may contribute to the enhancement of radiation response. Ashwagandha can reverse paclitaxel induced neutropenia in mice. Significant toxicity was observed at high doses in animal studies, however, toxicity studies in humans are limited.

Indian Board of Alternative Medicine
80, Chowringhee Road
Calcutta - 700002
India
http://www.altmedworld.net

Tea Tree Oil : 21 Uses

What is Tea Tree Oil?

Tea tree oil is an essential oil obtained by steam distillation of the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, a plant native to Australia. Due to its antifungal, antibacterial and anti viral properties tea tree oil is used either pure or mixed with other essential oils in a diversity of situations.

Some of the most common uses for tea tree essential oil are:

1) Tea Tree for Boils. Boils are red swollen and tender eruptions.
Tea tree oil has powerful antimicrobial properties and helps to fight infection. Apply a drop of undiluted tea tree oil to the boil several times a day until the eruption has healed.

2) Tea Tree oil for Impetigo.
Impetigo is a condition that causes tiny blisters, usually around the nose and mouth. Tea tree’s antibacterial properties help dry impetigo blisters. For a more effective treatment you can combine it with lavender essential oil which helps alleviate inflammation.

To prepare your remedy mix:
• 1 tablespoon of almond oil with
• ½ tea spoon of tea tree essential oil and
• ½ tea spoon of Lavender essential oil.

Apply to the blisters 3 times a day.

3) Tea Tree oil to eliminate warts
To eliminate warts. Tea tree oil has powerful antiviral properties and can help eliminate warts. Apply undiluted tea tree essential oil with a cotton swab directly to the wart several times a day.

4) Dry herpes blisters with tea tree oil.
Herpes being a virus cannot be treated with antibiotics. As an antiviral, tea tree oil helps to dry the herpes blisters. To prevent irritation of the skin and sensitive mucous membranes, dilute equal amounts of tea tree essential oil with vegetable oil and dab a small amount on to the blisters four times a day. Tea tree oil can also be applied directly to any blisters.

5) Tea tree oil to treat Inflammations
To treat Inflammations, apply a warm wash cloth impregnated with tea tree oil to the area for a few minutes. You can also apply undiluted tea tree oil directly on the inflamed area.

6) Tea tree oil to relieve colds
Use Tea Tree oil and Eucalyptus to relieve congestion during a cold.
Try a herbal steam inhalation using 2 drops of tea tree essential oil and 2 drops of eucalyptus essential oil in two litres of hot boiling water. Tea tree has antiviral and antibacterial properties and the eucalyptus oil helps drain mucous congestion.

7) For curing Athlete's Foot.

8) As a cure for nail and toenail fungal infections
Apply tea tree oil directly to infected area and cuticles.

9) Tea tree oil for acne
For treating inflamed and non-inflamed acne lesions you can apply tea tree oil directly onto infected area twice a day or add 60 drops of tea tree oil to your facial wash, apply twice daily. If you are applying tea tree oil over large areas of your face make sure you moisturize well your skin to avoid dryness. You can also try applying pure tea tree oil using a cotton ball onto slightly damp skin to lighten its effects.

10) Tea tree oil for dandruff
Tea tree oil can be used to reduce symptoms of dandruff.

11) To disinfect wounds.
Use tea tree oil to clean minor cuts to disinfect the wound.

12) Use tea tree oil to help with Asthma.
Just add a few drops of tea tree oil to a warm damp face cloth and breathe through it until the cloth cools down.

13) To relieve itchiness
To relieve itchinessfor insect bites, such as fleas, and disinfect the bite, add a drop of tea tree oil directly to the bite, you can repeat the treatment every 2 hours or until the itching has disappeared.

14) To get rid of head lice
Add a few drops of tea tree oil to your shampoo, massage into hair, leave on for about 10 minutes and rinse. Repeat the treatment once a day until lice and nits are gone.

15) Tea tree oil for a fresh breath
To always have a fresh breath make a mouthwash adding one drop of tea tree oil in a glass of water. Use as an ordinary mouthwash, be careful not to swallow as tea tree oil can be toxic if ingested.

16)To guard from disease
To guard from disease you can gargle with one drop of tea tree oil dissolved in a glass of water. This solution will help your body fight bacteria, as with the mouthwash; make sure you don’t swallow the solution.

17) For bladder infections
To relieve the symptoms of a bladder infection have a warm bath with 10 drops of tea tree oil in it.

18) For shaving
Use tea tree oil to disinfect your razors before shaving. Add a few drops of tea tree oil to your razor to make sure there are no harmful bacteria transferred from the razor to your skin.

19) Tea tree oil to prevent offensive body odours.
You can use a drop of tea tree oil in your armpits to prevent bad smells. You can also mix equal parts of tea tree oil and a carrier oil to rub your feet with before wearing your shoes for the day.

20) To repel insects in your house
add a few drops of tea tree oil to your house cleaning products.

21) Tea tree oil as a natural deodorizer
Use tea tree oil as a natural deodorizer for your clothes and to help with mould, mildew, and odour causing bacteria. Just add a few drops of essential tea tree oil to your washing liquid before using it. Alternatively, you can buy inexpensive tea tree oil to add to your wash load. One or 2 teaspoons in a load of laundry can eliminate a host of odour causing problems.

Indian Board of Alternative Medicine
80, Chowringhee Road
Calcutta - 700002
India
http://www.altmedworld.net

The Health Benefits of Arnica

Arnica has been recognized for its ability to relieve pain, discomfort and swelling since the 16th century. Also known as arnica Montana, Leopardsbane, Wolfsbane and European arnica. Native to Russia, Germany and North America it has been used for similar purposes by the North American Indians.

Arnica is an herbaceous and perennial plant which grows to approximately 1 to 2 ft high and a member of the daisy family. It is usually found in meadows and woodland areas and can be recognized by its golden yellow, aromatic flowers. It is revered and highly rated for its healing and calming effects on the body, used to reduce inflammation, as a decongestion and also has anti-fungal and antiseptic agents, often referred to as the warming herb, highly effective in the relief of arthritic pains.

It works by accelerating the healing process and has the ability to formulate granular tissue making it highly efficient in the treatment of burns, abrasions, eczema, sunburns and some skin cancers. The application of arnica promotes blood circulation which increases blood flow to the affected area and with the increased blood flow come nutrients which aid, promote and expedite the healing process. However, care should be taken not to apply it to open wounds, whist pregnant women are advised to refrain from its use during their confinement.

It is taken as a homeopathic preparation in the form of pills to cure ailment such as bronchitis, influenza, cystitis and kidney infections. Whilst arnica can be taken internally, it must be remembered that it is both potent and toxic, therefore it should only be taken under the control of a homeopathic advisor. There have been side effects and when taken in excessive doses, it can cause nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Other noted side-effects, if used over long and sustained periods it can cause dermatitis and also believed to be a contributor in some kidney and liver conditions.

It can be purchased in many topical formulations as an oil, tincture, creams, gels, powders, salves, ointments, with very good results achieved in the treatment for acne. It has the ability to relax tense and painful muscles helping to make them supple and aid pain relief. It is considered irreplaceable by physiotherapists and masseuse who regard it as an important addition to their treatment cabinets also a particular favorite of athletics who use it after undertaking any form of strenuous exercises.

Arnica is a highly effective natural pain-killer which scientific studies have proven. Trials under controlled scientific conditions were undertaken using arnica and the much prescribed pain-killer ibuprofen. Test results indicated that arnica is as powerful and effective as Ibuprofen, which is good news for those who wish to only use natural pain relieving remedies.

Arnica is by all accounts a safe and effective alternative pain remedy and can be purchased from health food stores and pharmacies. However, each person is an individual and may react differently to substances, even when it comes from a natural source. It would therefore be prudent to first learn as much as possible about arnica before moving forward.

Indian Board of Alternative Medicine
80, Chowringhee Road
Calcutta - 700002
India
http://www.altmedworld.net

Color Your Day : The Benefits of Color Therapy

Color Your Day : The Benefits of Color Therapy.

Color, color, color, color, it brightens the day and make you happier specially at times when you are stressed out. People have color preferences and usually they based their choices of products they use or wear based on the vibes it creates when they look at it or use the item. They choose their wardrobe, bags, nail colors and almost everything they consume or use based on the color to some extent. People have their own favorite color as well.

The topic of this article is about color therapy as a method of healing. It is an alternative way of healing which has its roots in Ayurvedic medicine in India.

Chakra explained

There are seven main energy centres (chakras) of the body. These chakras are like spirals of energy, each one relating to the others and by utilizing the seven colours of the spectrum, Color Therapy aims to balance and enhance our body's energy centres/chakras and also to help stimulate our body's own healing process. Colour Therapy in short utilizes colour to re-balance the Chakras that have become depleted of energy.

What is Color Therapy?

Color therapy , chromotherapy, sometimes called colorology or cromatherapy, is an alternative way of healing method -- a technique which used color and light to balance energy in the person well being, physical, emotional, spiritual or mental.
Color therapy is an area of holistic healing which uses color in an attempt to affect our mood, emotions and even our health.

The Ayurvedic medicine describes the body as having major main chakras, seven all in all, which are spiritual centers located along the spine that are associated with a color, function and organ or bodily system. According to this explanation, these colors can become imbalanced and result in physical diseases but these imbalances can be corrected by using the appropriate color as a treatment.

Brief History of Color Therapy

The Beginning -- Avicenna (980-1037) --- viewed color to be of vital importance in diagnosis and traetment, discussed chromotherapy in " The Cannon of Meficine". He wrote that "Color is an observable symptom of disease" and also developed a chart that related color to the temperature and physical condition of the body. His view was that red moved the blood, blue or white cooled it, and yellow reduced muscular pain and inflammation. He further discussed the properties of colors for healing and was "the first to establish that the wrong color suggested for therapy would elicit no response in specific diseases."

The use of color as a therapy has a long history -- the ancient Egyptians and ancient Greeks built healing temples of light and color and the use of color became deeply embedded in Chinese and Indian medicine, and it remains an integral part of Ayurvedic medicine as well.

The Benefits Of Color Therapy

1. Each and every color has specific healing properties. Usually a color therapist uses certain tools plus visualization techniques and suggestions to apply color to our bodies in an attempt to heal those parts of our bodies suffering under physical, emotional, or spiritual strain.

2. It uplifts the mood and make a person happier

3. Sometimes it is combined with other treatment like aromatherapy or other alternative way of healing

Some Color Plus their Properties

Green•
Green symbolizes nature and is the universal healing color, and it is currently a popular decorating color,. It is the easiest color on the eye and can improve vision, and it is a good color because it is a calming and nourishing. Hospitals often use green because it relaxes patients. Clear perception, self- recognition, and compassion are associated with green.

Blue
Because it signifies tranquility, it has been said that blue causes the body to produce calming chemicals, thus it is often used as linens in bedrooms. It is believed that blue slows metabolic activity, but at the same time it can also be cold and depressing or pain relieving and it has been found out that people are more productive in blue rooms. Blue enhances clear thinking, diligence and organization.

Orange
Orange promotes happiness, joyousness and feeling of wellness. Orange is used to treat depression, hypothyroidism and kidney
Orange is the color for ideas and mental concepts plus it also symbolizes warmth and prosperity.

Red
Red is the strongest and the most emotionally intense color -- red stimulates the heart to beat faster and breathing to increase plus it also increases metabolic activity. As red is the color of love, it is often used as an accent color in decorating. Decorators say that red will attract attention. Self-motivation, leadership and generosity are some qualities of the color red.

Yellow
If you want to be in a joyful mood, yellow is a nice color to proejct that mood.It is also considered an optimistic color and it has been found out that most people are temperamental when they are in yellow rooms because if you overused it, it can be overpowering to your eyes.

Black
Black is the color of power and it also implies submission to authority. The qualities of black include self-sufficiency plus individualism and protection.

White
White is associated with light and it suggests goodness, purity, virginity and innocence, maybe because it signifies pureness --- blank and it is a color of perfection. It denotes successful beginning.

Purple
Purple is associated with royalty, king and regality. It strongly symbolizes power, nobility, luxury plus ambition. It signifies wealth and extravagance. Purple is also associated with wisdom, dignity and independence plus it is a powerful color in enhancing creativity, mystery and magic.

The Five Principles of Yoga and Why You Should Learn Them By Heart

The Five Principles of Yoga and Why You Should Learn Them By Heart

Yoga is an ancient practice that has adapted use in healing and creating physical or mental wellness. Many are interested in learning yoga skills for its holistic benefits. But, before you embark on this journey of not just physical, but also spiritual, revitalization, you need to learn what principles yoga has that make all these benefits possible. A deeper understanding of the practice will educate you on how you can maximize those benefits that you can gain.

The Five Principles of Yoga

The five principles of yoga are one of the basic concepts taught upon your first session with the yoga practice. With a holistic perspective, it emphasizes the idea that yoga is a practiced lifestyle instead of a mere exercise routine.

The five basic principles of yoga are outlined below:

1. Asanas (Exercise)

2. Pranayama (Breathing)

3. Shavasana (Relaxation)

4. Sattvic (Diet)

5. Dhyana (Meditation)

Importance of Learning Them

If you were to examine the principles of yoga, you might think that it is such a complex practice. But in close examination, you will realize that these were the same health principles taught to you by your parents and your doctor. Indeed, these principles were designed based on the idea that a holistic health experience comprises not just your physical body, but also your mental and spiritual health.

It teaches you to discontinue any unhealthy practice and follow the natural path towards attaining longevity and improving health.

Proper Exercise (Yoga Asanas)

Ancient yoga philosophy sees the body as the temple of your spiritual body. Hence, better spiritual health always begins with the physical body and health. Various yoga postures or asanas are required to perform in yoga that will help in exercising and working out your body. Common yoga postures stretches and tones your muscles and ligaments to provide full motion.

As a result of performing these asanas, you will be able to enhance the flexibility of your joints and spine. There are several entailing benefits as a result of proper execution of these poses. Since yoga asanas can be quite demanding at times, beginners are often required to take beginner's course to allow their body to slowly adapt to these complex posture patterns.

Proper Breathing (Yoga Pranayama)

Breathing is vital in proper execution of the yoga postures above. With proper breathing, it means breathing that is rhythmical and utilize all of your lung muscles to absorb oxygen. Proper breathing required for yoga exercise is deep and slow, with a rhythmical pattern. Hence, you need to allocate regular length and duration whenever you inhale or exhale.

In order to achieve that, proper breathing control is necessary. In deeper perspective for yoga philosophy, the ability to control your breathing signify that you have full control over your mind. This also serves as your foundation towards achieving a more focused and calmer state of mind.

Proper Relaxation (Yoga Shavasana)

Before you can attain proper relaxation needed to start your practice of yoga, you need to be able to accomplish the first two principles: proper exercise and proper breathing. Ancient practice of yoga in India utilized powerful techniques that enable one to enter a deep relaxation state. In modern times, relaxation is vital in stress management situations since most people have to deal with a fast paced and highly stressful environment on a constant basis.

Yogic relaxation begins with the muscles and relieving it from any form of tension. You need to rest your entire body until it revitalizes your nervous system. Only then will you feel relaxed and attain inner sense of peace. When you feel relaxed physically and internally, it affects the way you deal with everyday activities and make you more effective in what it is you need to do.

Proper Diet (Sattvic)

Food and diet is another essential element in yoga practice, especially in its impact on the mind. To be specific, yoga emphasizes a lacto-vegetarian diet to further enhance your progress towards a holistic body-mind-spiritual rejuvenation. Termed as sattvic diet, it consists of vegetables, fruits grains, nuts, and dairy. This type of diet complements any type of yoga practice.

Furthermore, yoga beliefs state that meat products create distraction in your system, making you feel restless and dull. The process of digesting meat also consumes too much of your energy that yoga philosophy insists should be allocated only to your body's meditative and healing capacity. Therefore, people who practice yoga must discontinue including meat in their diet if you want to attain better results.

Meditation (Dhyana)

This is the final straw and the most crucial aspect of any yoga practice. This is basically where all other yoga principles hinge on. Positive thinking and outlook, as yoga experts would suggest, is a key factor in attaining better mental and physical well-being. This coincides with the yoga belief that mind controls everything in your body and as long as you have control over your mind, then you have control over your body and health.

To gain slow but gradual control of your mind, you need to regularly practice meditation. Hence, it is best to develop your own meditation routine wherein you spend a few minutes of your day meditating. By slowing down the activity of your brain, you are able to create a deeper state of meditation. Once you have achieved the four principles above, then it should be easier for you to gain a calmer sense of mind, healthier body and mind.

Benefits of These Yoga Principles

Since the five different principles of yoga target different aspects of your mental and physical health, there are several benefits listed as a result of practicing yoga. The best aspect about yoga is that practically anyone can do it, regardless of age, gender, body size, etc.

Listed below are just some of its beneficial results:

*Boost of energy and vitality;
*Makes you more effective in battling stress;
*Relief from muscle tension;
*Better posture;
*Increased muscle flexibility;
*Improve stamina and strength;
*Cure back issues;
*Cater to proper digestion and bowel movement;
*Better circulation of blood;
*Effective weight loss plan; and,
*Improved mental and spiritual health.

Mantra: Say It Like You Mean It

Say It Like You Mean It

It is estimated that the average person has over 60,000 thoughts every day. Not all of these thoughts are happy approving ones though.
Meditation helps you to think differently by getting you into a new habit of monitoring your thoughts and the resulting actions. In this way, you begin to notice what you are thinking and then choose to act in a manner that is not only optimistic but compassionate too.

One Highly Effective Tool

When meditating it is often a challenge to remain focused on a single object, be it the breath, a light, or even a rock!
To encourage a single-pointed focus, I encourage my students to use the simple, but highly effective tool of a mantra.

Protecting your mind

A mantra is a mental or auditory word or phrase, often with a personal or sacred meaning. Derived from the roots of two Sanskrit words; manas, referring to the mind, and tra, meaning that which protects, a mantra is therefore a thought, word, or sound which protects the mind.

Raise Your Shield

During your meditation practice, if you notice that your mind has wandered off, a mantra pulls it right back to where you want it to be. It serves as a replacement for unwanted thoughts by allowing you to concentrate easily and fully. You can repeat or chant a mantra, focusing on the meaning and the sound, while hearing the mantra vibrate within you.

Mantras act like a shield against not only your own random thoughts during meditation, but they also pop up when you think derogatory thoughts about yourself or someone else. What’s also great about a mantra is that it also pops up if you encounter a person or situation that is either obviously harmful or subtly damaging such as meeting someone who wants to share the latest gossip.

The First Mantra

Om is known as the first mantra. If the mind has a tendency to wander or unwanted thoughts enter the field of awareness, it provides a simple means to relax the mind and allow it to surrender into the peaceful influence of this singular point of focus. Om (also known as AUM) will be written about in more detail in a future posting.

Traditionally, mantras are repeated 108 times, signifying one complete round. You can say as many rounds as you want to every day. Over time, you will notice that the mantra does have both a protective and a positive effect on the way that you think and subsequently act because you are replacing negative thoughts with more beneficial views and beliefs.

What Mantra to Choose

Either Om or a word or phrase of your choice such as I am Loved, Peace, I am Healed
You can continue with this phrase or repeat a different one, so long as it is meaningful to you and not derogatory in any way.

Focus on the sound and vibration of the word and you will eventually begin to absorb the positive frequency of the mantra. This is scientifically proven to contribute to not only mental heath but physical health too.

Send in Reinforcements

Try looking at yourself in the mirror and telling yourself “I Love You.” Do it 108 times every day for a week. Notice how you feel every day.
In time you will not only feel loved, but you will know that you are loved and be able to love others too.

Repeat your mantra silently each time you meditate or when doing simple tasks or even walking the dog. It’s easy to carry your mantra with you wherever you go.
Keep it short and say it like you mean it.
Soon you will not only mean it, you will believe it even when you’re not saying it.

Bach Flower Remedies: Dosages

Bach flower remedy dosages, like biochemic remedies, are not harmful, never mind how many doses you take in a day. However, taking the regular prescribed dose does work better unless it is an emergency when many more doses at shorter intervals can be given. These remedies can be taken by infants, children, adults, pets and even sprayed on plants.

The usual dose

The dosage for most ailments is two drops from the bottle the remedy comes in, four times a day. You should try and see that you don’t eat or drink anything for fifteen minutes before and after the dose if you want the remedy to act well. These are gentle healing remedies and strong flavours and tastes can minimize their effects. The first dose should be on an empty stomach in the morning, followed by doses at noon, evening and night at bedtime. The easiest way to have it is to put two drops into your mouth using the dropper. Do take care not to let the dropper touch your mouth. In most cases, the remedy will have to continue for three to four weeks. You will most probably feel better after the first few doses with the right remedy but you must continue and give it a chance to work well in your body.

Emergency dosage

When it is a serious case, you can administer two drops from the dropper bottle every fifteen minutes if necessary till the person looks better after which you can get back to four doses a day. In absolute emergencies, you can increase each dose to four drops.

Infants’ and young children’s dosage

One drop four times a day is the usual dose unless it is an emergency. Children usually respond very quickly to Bach remedies and sometimes one dose is all it takes to make them all right.

Pets’ dosage

Like children, one drop four times a day is the regular dose unless there is an emergency when you can make it a drop every half an hour till there is visible improvement.

Plants’ dosage

For plants, you can put two drops in a spray bottle and fill it up with water. You can then spray the plants with it. Plants that are diseased, have had a shock or are dying can be revived with regular spraying in most cases.

Other ways to administer Bach remedies

You can put the drops into a tablespoon of water and drink it. You can even put them into half a cup of water and sip it. In case you want to give these remedies to someone in the family without them knowing, you could put two drops into a glass of water and give it to them. It is preferable not to add it to juice or other hot or cold drinks. These remedies are so gentle yet effective but they must not be exposed to strong tastes or flavours.

They can be put into water and used as compresses when somehow is hurt or in pain. They can even be put into the bath water – 5 drops to a full bath is recommended.

Bach remedies are very often given in combination – a drop from each of the chosen Bach remedies for each dose.

What’s more, Bach remedies can be used with other medicines, including allopathic medication as well. They do not affect them. In fact, they are a great way to augment their healing power. They are however, best when used with other forms of holistic medicine.

Homeopathy treatment / Radionics treatment-THE MOST SUCCESFULL METHOD OF HEALING

Homeopathy

What are Homeopathics?

Homeopathic remedies are a system of medicine based on three laws:

1. The law of Similars
A substance when administrated to a healthy person will produce particular symptoms. When this substance is administered to an individual with the same or similar set of symptoms, in a diseased state, it will cure by boosting the body's natural responses. Like cures like. For example, if the symptoms of your cold are similar to poisoning by mercury, then mercury would be your homeopathic remedy.

2. The law of Infinitesimal

This is based on the principle that smaller the quantity of the medicinal substance, greater is its effect. Similar principals forms the basis of conventional allergy treatment, where the allergic substance is given in a small dose, and in vaccines where an impotent form of the virus is given to bolster the immune system against that particular virus. A drop of the crude medicinal substance (plant tincture, chemicals etc) is added to 99 drops of alcohol and given 10 strokes. This is the 1st potency or 1C. A drop of this is further added to 99 drops of alcohol and after 10 strokes you get 2C. Similarly when 1 drop of medicine is added to 10 drops of alcohol, the first potency is 1X. Higher the potency, lesser is the material dose, and stronger is its effect. Commonly prescribed strengths are 6C, 30C, 200C, 1000 (1M), 10000 (10M), and 3X, 6X, 30X

3. The law of Individualization

In Allopathy or modern medicine two persons suffering from the same disease is usually treated using the same medicine. However, a Homeopathic physician does not label a patient by the disease condition but considers a prescription based on the totality of both the mental and physical characteristics of the patient. Thus every case is different and needs an individualistic prescription.

The various medicines used in homeopathy are from the plant, mineral, animal, or chemical kingdoms, but extremely diluted, so there is nothing of original supstance left. Only vibration of it!!!

Why use Homeopathics?

Homeopathy is the second most widely used system of medicine in the world. Its growth in popularity in the United States has been around 25 to 50 percent a year throughout the last decade.

This success is fueled by several factors: Homeopathy is extremely effective. When the correct remedy is taken, results can be rapid, complete and permanent.
Homeopathy is completely safe. Even babies and pregnant women can use Homeopathy without the danger of side effects.

Homeopathic remedies can also be taken alongside other medication without producing unwanted side effects.

Homeopathy is natural. Homeopathic remedies are normally based on natural ingredients.

Homeopathy works in harmony with your immune system, unlike some conventional medicines which suppress the immune system. (For example, cough medicines suppress the cough reflex, which is your body's attempt to clear the lungs)

Homeopathic remedies are not addictive - once relief is felt, you should stop taking them. If no relief is felt, you are probably taking the wrong homeopathic remedy.
Homeopathy is holistic. It treats all the symptoms as one, which in practical terms means that it addresses the cause, not the symptoms. This often means that symptoms tackled with Homeopathy do not recur.

Homeopathy and Isopathy

Comparing Homeopathy and Isopathy

Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843) and Johann Joseph Wilhelm Lux ( 1773-1849) lived during the same time period. We know that inventions, discoveries and innovations circle the globe as thoughts and ideas come into existence.

Due to world situations, the movement of disease, state of sanitation, and the health care systems these investigations into new ways of healing became popular. The medical political scene was also under scrutiny with the use of massive doses of toxins as curative agents.

Samuel Hahneman began testing substances on himself and fellow colleagues to see the way the physical body and spiritual matter responded. These documentations and recordings became the beginning of 'homeopathy' where discovering how similar substances could initiate a curative response in a sick person.

On the other hand, Jonathan Joseph Wilhelm Lux was investigating not just all substances, whether they be plants, minerals, animals or energy forms like x-rays. Mr Lux specialized in learning about disease matter, such as pus, and other tissue substances directly from the sick person.

Isopathy is the term that describes using the individual's own discharges (urine), bodily fluids (mucus), or disease matter (more specifically nosode) and potentize this substance and take this in the 'minimal dose' as prescribed by Homeopathic Principle.

Whereas, a homeopathic remedy is a "similar" substance and not the "exact" substance. The isopathic remedy may by a lymphocyte, blood cell, tissue sample, or other discharge from a diseased area, or even a bit of saliva.
You can see the similarity between the Isopathic Approach to healing and Vaccinations, which also introduce an allergen or diseased substance such as in the influenza vaccine and MMR which causes a physical response to a foreign body and boosts the immune system to fight this type of invader in the future.
There is a great difference between isopathy and vaccinations.
• For one, the 'minimal dose' principle is not used in vaccinations.
• Other differences include the fact that isopathy gives the remedy sublingual application orally and not injected into the muscles or blood.
• Isopathy only gives the individual's own substances back via this dosage method and not disease matter or bodily tissue from other beings, either human or animal.
• Isopathy does not standardize the dose as the same or frequency for everyone being equal.
• Isopathy does not mix many substances or diseased matters together.
• Isopathy is specifically designed with the individual in mind, not a mass population.
• Isopathy is very gentle in it's action and has no side effects.
• Isopathy does not introduce any additives or other chemicals into a complex mixture.
• Isopathy is a simple direct method.

The nosodes used in homeopathy may be considered a type of isopathy. The nosodes, which are studied as miasmic conditions, also come from diseased matter and given in the very minimal dose. Many homeopaths suggest giving in ultra high potency. The difference between nosode and isopathy is that the nosode remedy does not come from the individual to whom it is given. In this way, it conforms to the 'similar' principle. Thus, it is not 'exactly' from the individual's own tissue or cells, but comes from someone who had a similar illness.

Aphorism 56 Sixth Edition A third mode of employing medicines in diseases has been attempted to be created by means of Isopathy, as it is called - that is to say, a method of curing a given disease by the same contagious principle that produces it. But even granting this could be done, yet, after all, seeing that the virus is given to the patient highly potentized, and consequently, in an altered condition, the cure is effected only by opposing a simillimum to a simillimum.

Homeopathic Remedy Names and Abbreviations

It is important that one familiarizes itself with the names given to Homeopathic Remedies. While reading labels on Homeopathic remedies the names can come abbreviated or in their full Latin name then potency. In India for instance, each and every remedy is attributed a coded number and they go by those numbers. However it´s not a common practice on this side of the World.

Homeopathy uses infinitesimal doses of a certain substance to stimulate a person's immune system and body's natural defenses.

Homeopathic remedies are produced by taking the remedy from a plant, mineral, chemical, or animal substance, diluting it in water and shaking it vigorously. This process is repeated until reaching the desired dilution and potency.
The list below is not a complete list; they are just the remedies that we usually find on the shelves. Investigators are always adding new remedies to the Homeopathic Medical Matter.



ABBREVIATED NAME---FULL NAME---SUBSTANCE/COMMON NAME

• Aconite, Acon------Aconitum Napellus----------Monkshood, Wolfsbane
• Aesculus, Aesc---Aesculus Hippocastanum---Horse chestnut tree
• Aethusa, Aeth-----Aethusa Cynapium----------Fool’s parsley
• Agaricus, Agar-----Agaricus Muscarius--------Toadstool
• Al Cepa-----------------Allium Cepa---------------Common red onion
• Alumina-----------------------------------------------Aluminum oxide
• Anacardium, Anac--Anacardium Orientale-----Malacca nut
• Ant Crud-----------Antimonium Crudum----------Antimony Sulphide
• Ant Tart-----------Antimonium Tartaricum-------Tartar
• Apis-----------------Apis Mellifica------------------Honey bee
• Arg Nit--------------Argenticum Nitricum---------Silver Nitrate
• Arnica, Arn---------Arnica Montana--------------Mountain tobacco, Leopard’s bane
• Arsenicum, Arsen Alb--Arsenicum Album------White oxide of the metal arsenic
• Baptisia, Bapt--------Baptisia Tinctoria----------Wild indigo
• Belladonna, Bell-----Atropa Belladonna---------Deadly nightshade
• Bellis Perennis---------------------------------------Common daisy
• Borax---------------------------------------------------Sodium borate
• Bryonia-----------------Bryonia Alba---------------Wild hops
• Calc Carb-----------Calcarea Carbonica---------Calcium carbonate, oyster shells
• Calc Fluor------------Calcarea Fluorica-----------Fluoride of lime
• Calc Phos-----------Calcarea Phosphorica-------Phosphate of lime
• Calc Sulph----------Calcarea Sulphurica---------Gypsum
• Calendula-----------Calendula Officinalis---------Marigold
• Cantharis------------Cantharis Vesicatoria-------Spanish fly
• Carbo Veg-----------Carbo Vegetabilis-----------Wood charcoal
• Carbolic Acid--------Carbolicum Acidum---------Carbolic acid
• Castor Equi-------------------------------------------Horse’s thumbnail
• Caulophyllum----Caulophyllum Thalictroides----Squaw root
• Causticum---------------------------------------------Potassium hydrate
• Chamomilla---------Matricaria Chamomilla-------German chamomile
• China-----------------China Officinalis--------------Cinchona bark, Peruvian bark
• Cimicifuga------------Actea Racemosa------------Black cohosh
• Cocculus-------------Cocculus Indicus-------------Fish berry, India berry
• Coccus Cacti------------------------------------------Cochineal
• Coffea-------------------Coffea Cruda--------------Coffee, Mocha bean
• Colocynth---------------Colocynthis----------------Bitter apple, Bitter cucumber
• Crotalus Horridus------------------------------------Rattlesnake
• Cuprum---------------Cuprum Metallicum---------Copper
• Drosera--------------Drosera Rotundifolia--------Sundew
• Dulcamara-----------Solanum Dulcamara---------Bittersweet, Woody nightshade
• Echinacea-----------Echinacea Angustifolia------Purple cone flower
• Eupatorium Perf----Eupatorium Perfoliatum-----Indian sage
• Euphrasia------------Euphrasia Officinalis--------Eyebright
• Ferrum Phos--------Ferrum Phosphoricum------White phosphate iron
• Gelsemium----------Gelsemium Sempervirens---Yellow jasmine
• Glonoine------------------------------------------------Nitroglycerine
• Hamamelis-----------Hamamelis Virginica---------Witch hazel
• Hepar Sulph-------Hepar Sulphuris Calcareum--Calcium sulphide
• Hypericum-----------Hypericum Perfoliatum-------St John’s Wort
• Ignatia--------------------Ignatia Amara--------------St Ignatia’s bean
• Ipecac---------------Cephaelis Ipecacuanha-------Ipecacuanha
• Kali Bic-----------------Kali Bichromicum-------------Bichromate potash
• Kali Carb---------------Kali Carbonicum-------------Potassium carbonate
• Kali Mur-----------------Kali Muriaticum--------------Potassium chloride
• Kali Phos--------------Kali Phosphoricum-----------Potassium phosphate
• Kali Sulph--------------Kali Sulphuricum-------------Potassium sulphate
• Lachesis---------Trigonocephalus Lachesis-------Bushmaster, Surukuku snake
• Ledum------------------Ledum Palustre--------------Wild rosemary
• Lycopodium--------Lycopodium Clavatum---------Clubmoss, Wolf’s claw
• Mag Phos--------Magnesium Phosphoricum-------Magnesium phosphate
• Merc Sol------------Mercurius Solubilis---------------Mercury
• Mezereum-----------Daphne Mezereum--------------Spurge olive
• Nat Mur---------------Natrum Muriaticum--------------Sodium chloride, common salt
• Nat Phos------------Natrum Phosphoricum-----------Sodium phosphate
• Nat Sulph------------Natrum Sulphuricum-------------Sodium sulphate
• Nit Ac-------------------Nitricum Acidum----------------Nitric acid
• Nux Vomica-------Strychnos Nux Vomica------------Poison nut
• Petroleum--------------Oleum Petrae------------------Crude rock oil •
• Phosphorus-----------------------------------------------Phosphorus
• Phytolacca----------Phytolacca Decandra-----------Poke root
• Pulsatilla--------------Pulsatilla Nigricans-------------Meadow anemone, wind flower
• Pyrogen------------------Pyrogenium-------------------Sepsin
• Quercus-------------Quercus Glandium---------------Acorn tincture
• Rhus Tox----------Rhus Toxicondendron-------------Poison ivy
• Ruta-------------------Ruta Graveolens----------------Rue
• Salvia------------------Salvia Officinalis----------------Sage
• Secale----------------Secale Cornutum----------------Ergot of rye
• Sepia------------------Sepia Officinalis-----------------Cuttlefish, squid
• Silica----------------------Silica Terra--------------------Flint
• Spongia----------------Spongia Tosta------------------Roasted sea sponge
• Staphysagria-----Delphinium taphysagria------------Stavesacre
• Sulphur-----------------------------------------------------Brimstone, sulphur flower
• Symphytum-------Symphytuin Officinalis-------------Boneset, comfrey
• Tabacum-----------Nicotiana Tabacum---------------Tobacco
• Tarentula----------Tarentula Cubensis---------------Cuban tarantula
• Urtica Urens-----------------------------------------------Lesser nettle, stinging nettle
• Veratrum Alb---------Veratrum Album White---------hellebore

Should You Do Yoga Everyday?

Everyday Yoga

There are quite a few ways to answer the question, “Should I do yoga everyday?” The right approach for you depends on your perspective and definition of yoga.
It depends on what your body needs and what kind of yoga practice you're doing.
In the most expansive sense, the answer is “Yes.”

If you think of what yoga is as a whole, it defines how we live. It can guide how you interact with the world, and is a very good guide at that.

Part of yoga is being kind to people, living by ethical guidelines such as ahimsa, or non-violence, and satya, which describes truth and honesty.

When you consider this broad perspective of yoga as a way of living with the highest integrity, then it only makes sense that we practice it everyday.

However, most of the time people ask this question they’re referring to the physical asana practice. Should you go to your mat and practice everyday?

Well, it depends.

What kind of yoga do you do? Is it serving your body in the highest way? Is it aligned both physically and philosophically with your highest good?
Those are the questions you really need to know to decide if you should go to your mat everyday.

And some days it’s more appropriate to rest. When women are on their menstrual cycle, sometimes the body would like a day off. Sometimes when the body is fighting off an illness or injury the kindest thing to do is not to practice.
Then again, sometimes the best thing you can do is to get the breath and circulation moving to assist the body’s natural healing capabilities.

Small Doses of Yoga Delight

But what if you don’t feel you have the time for that kind of consistency?
If you aren’t able to make time for a yoga class, or your own personal practice, don’t despair. Take a few minutes here and there throughout your day.

Here’s an example:
Sit up tall in your chair and connect to your breath.
Let your breath initiate the movements described here.
With an inhale, lift your arms up over your head.
With an exhale, float your hands back down to your sides.
Repeat this a few times and notice the change in your breath and body.
See? Super simple, not at all time consuming, and yet this is a very powerful little exercise to increase circulation and wake up your breath. It can help you have more energy and focus as well.

Meditation is Yoga

Another aspect of yoga that is tremendously helpful to include in your everyday practice of being human is meditation.

Meditation connects you to who you truly are, helps you get clear about your purpose in life, and supports equanimity in this wonderfully crazy world.
Meditation doesn’t have to take a long time; even 5 minutes can make a huge difference! Just be patient with your mind and explore the stillness with wonder and curiosity. Check out the Demystifying Meditation link above if you’re interested in learning more, or if you want a couple of meditations to try.

Your Own Truth

Often we doubt ourselves, or don’t give our intuitions the attention they deserve. It’s great to look for outside sources of information, yet use these to inform your own choices, not to decide for you.
Trusting yourself is so important. No one else can tell you what is right for you in the deepest, truest sense. Sure, sometimes our choices lead to mistakes, but by forgiving, learning, and moving on, we get stronger.
When you’re unsure about your yoga practice, or anything else for that matter, go within and find your own truth.
Listen to your body. Listen to your own wisdom. Listen to your intelligence. Listen to your heart.

Acupressure -Discover the Magic of Fingers in Curing Your Pain and Stress

Acupressure

Acupressure is a traditional Chinese medicine that has become popular and most sought after form of alternative treatment. The treatment is devoid of any medicines and it’s after effect and is also cheaper than the Western medicines.

Acupressure claims to have brought relief to spondylitis, disc prolapsed and vertigo patients. With just 10-15 sessions of treatments, migraine can be cured.

Hyperactivity, autism in children can be also cured through Acupressure. Discomforts and problems arising due to hormone imbalance like early menopause and irregular menstrual cycle in women can be treated with Acupressure.

Acupuncture and Acupressure
In Acupuncture, small needles are inserted into specific acupuncture points in the body. To activate the acupuncture points, turning of these needles or even small amount of electricity may be passed. Experts are needed to carry out Acupuncture; otherwise it can lead to nerve injuries and even strokes. Also, you must ensure that the needles are properly sterilized. While in Acupressure, pressure is applied with hands and fingers in these acupressure points. Any one who has acquired the basic training in Acupressure can carry out this treatment.

Some do’s and don’t while doing Acupressure

• Apply adequate pressure which a patient can only withstand
• Apply only moderate pressure to tired patients
• Patient must be comfortably seated prior to the treatment
• Understand the patient and his illness before the treatment
• Pregnant patients must avoid treatments
• Low blood pressure and sugar patients must be careful
• Heart patients must avoid treatments
• Start treatment at least one hour after eating
• Avoid treatment after consuming alcohol
• Avoid tight dresses and belts during Acupressure
• Physical Exercise only 2 hours after Acupressure

Advantages of Acupressure

• No medicines prescribed
• No side effects
• Simple and effective treatment
• Cost effective
• Holistic approach of treatment
• Effective for migraine, spondylitis and back pains
• Reduces stress
• Increases immunity
• No risks of injures and infections
• A touch therapy
• No need of spacious rooms
• After studying the treatment, you can be an Acupressure therapist for yourself and your family.

Health and Self Hypnosis: How To Improve Your Health

Hypnosis can be quite useful to deal with health issues. PsychoNeuroImmunology has already demonstrated that our mind has a lot to do with our health, happy people as an example usually are pretty safe from diseases while stressed people instead are almost always ill, going from flu to headache, or constipation or Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) and so on.

Now, there are a lot of factors involved with health: Genetic, Pollution, Lifestyle, Nutrition, Emotions/Feelings.... Yet our mind plays the greater role in keeping us in good health. As a matter of fact you can do everything right but if you are almost always in a bad/low mood sooner of later your health will go bad.

So if our mind can affect positively our health and our greatest friend, our Subconscious Mind, knows everything that's going on within us than with the right approach we can use our mind to regain or maintain our health..

Our Body Changes

We are used to think of our body as a kind of static thing, growing older but remaining the same. This is wrong. Reality is that every given moment cells die and cells are born, changing and renovating our tissues. I could say that today very little of my body is what I had twenty years ago; well probably just one year ago I was almost completely different.

What does this means for us? That if all those cells get substituted every day than somewhere within us there should be the "Instructions" for all this activity; and since this instructions lie in the subconscious part of our mind than there is a great chance that we can modify these instructions to achieve a better health, to improve our Immune System and even become healthy again. Does it sound possible?

Probably someone is thinking:"Yes these instructions are in our DNA". This is pretty right, our DNA is full of instructions, and we all know that damages to our DNA usually have very bad effects on our health. I agree completely with this idea; but, why do we have scars?

Seems a stupid question, yet if the instructions about our body are coded only in our DNA why if I cut myself it remains a scar which is surely not in my DNA? If I cut one of my fingers since in my DNA there are the instructions to have ten fingers why doesn't the cut finger grow again? Do you see what I mean? There are instructions in our DNA and other instructions coded and stored somewhere else, where if I've cut myself even if my cells change everyday there is the order to have the scar appearing again and again. Can this make sense? That there are instructions about how our body is stored in our mind? And can make sense that if we can access these informations we can have the chance to modify them? And maybe regain our health?

Does it makes sense that if our Subconscious Mind knows everything about our body than it also knows what needs to be done to be healthy again?

Maybe I'm a little strange but to me it makes a lot of sense.

Before going on with the Self Hypnosis Suggestion as usual remember to read at least my hubs on Induction and Suggestion of the category Learn Self Hypnosis.

Obviously you are very strongly advised to follow your doctor's directives, this suggestion is an addition to them. Yet you'll see that it's quite effective.

General Health Suggestion

Desired Outcome: to be able to improve our health.

Say to your subconscious: Dear Subconscious, I know that you are aware of everything that happens both inside and outside myself. I know that you are aware of every need of every cell of my body. You know perfectly what needs to be done to maintain me in perfect health as much as what doesn't work well and needs to be repaired and I know that you can fix anything that needs to be fixed. You know what foods I need for this and I deeply TRUST your ability to help me to maintain or regain my health.

NOW, I KNOW I CAN FIX AND REGENERATE TO PERFECTION EVERY PART OF MY BODY.

I WANT TO BE ABLE TO FIX AND REGENERATE TO PERFECTION EVERY PART OF MY BODY.

Repeat the above sentences three times.

FROM NOW ON I CAN FIX AND REGENERATE TO PERFECTION EVERY PART OF MY BODY.

Repeat three times.

IMAGINE THE ACHIEVED OUTCOME AND FEEL HOW YOUR LIFE WILL CHANGE FOR THE BETTER.

DAILY REPETITION: I CAN FIX AND REGENERATE TO PERFECTION EVERY PART OF MY BODY.
DAILY REPETITION: I CAN FIX AND REGENERATE TO PERFECTION EVERY PART OF MY BODY.

Bach Flower Remedies: Heather And Self-Obsession

The Bach flower remedy Heather is the essence of sympathy and concern for others so you know that when a person is completely the opposite of this, he needs Heather and he needs it badly. You’ll know when this flower essence is needed because the self obsession is so obvious. I, me and myself in thought, word and deed is what characterizes these people. Most of us know people like this and they are usually never counted as belonging to one’s friends circle.

Physical
He can talk and talk and then talk some more. He never stops and it is always about himself. He’ll come into a group at a party or get together and he’ll very quickly hijack the conversation and steer it towards himself. He hates being alone and he loves company basically because he wants a listening ear. He loves being the centre of attention and if people quietly slip away from the group he is monopolizing, he’ll look around for a new group to bore. They tend to make a nuisance of themselves and have been known to physically hold on to you to make a point and you need to be really rude before they let go. Heather makes listeners out of these compulsive talkers.

Mental
His mind revolves around himself. He judges and sees everything from that perspective. He likes to dominate with words and he cannot think that everyone around him will not be interested in him and everything that concerns him. The gamut of his interests is himself, his work, his possessions and he just can’t see beyond that. All that he reads and thinks has something to do with him and this makes him exaggerate his successes as well as his failures. This self-obsession also makes him stretch the truth a bit, not really in a willful, lying manner but because he always makes himself to be more important than he is and this can change his memories.

Emotional
He gets terribly upset and hurt when he finds that people shun him and he honestly cannot understand why. There is something rather simple and child like about him even when he is so self centred. In all fairness, he will help someone who needs help but he will also talk about it to everyone making it out that he is a hero. This makes him an emotional drain for anyone he comes into contact with. Heather takes away this ‘I’ factor and makes him empathise more with people.

Spiritual
He is too self-obsessed to ever give himself over to a higher power. He sees himself as the centre of the universe not as one of its creatures and this makes it hard for him to be very spiritual in the true sense of the word. His universe is small and comprises everything around with him as the centre. Heather makes him relax and see the beauty of everything around, feel the beauty within his soul apart from himself.