Natural Health » Stress

Video: Reflexology

Natural Health — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 17:03:00 +0000

A video primer on reflexology.

What is Seishindo?

Natural Health — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 11:17:39 +0000

Have you heard of Seishindo meditation? Seishindo attempts to integrate your conscious and your subconscious self through meditation and self hypnosis. The goal is to find your connection to the world through movement and breath which connect all living things together according to the practice. Upon discovering your unique path and connection, your heart, body and soul can “line up” if they were out of sync previously. “The Japanese hypnosis method of Seishindo is drawn not only from [the creators] vast knowledge and experience but also from the combined ancient Japanese wisdom of Aikido, Sei-Tai and Seiki Jutsu.

This method of self-hypnosis is a perfect marriage between the Eastern and Western concepts of health management and overall well-being.” NaturalHealthBlog
Try the Seishindo meditation out for yourself at NaturalHealthWeb.com and learn more about Seishindo at seishindo.org

Natural Dental Health

Natural Health — Sun, 22 Jun 2008 21:39:08 +0000

We have all been indoctrinated from birth with the same message about oral health. Brush and floss religiously and avoid sugar and acids. Follow this recipe and you will have perfect teeth and if you do not end up with perfect teeth then you did not follow the recipe religiously enough.

A New Paradigm for Dental Health
Here is the problem. The recipe does not work. Virtually 100% of people in modern society have some form of tooth decay or gum disease. Tooth loss, dentures and bridges are considered a normal and inevitable part of growing up and aging. Is is possible that tooth decay and gum disease have a different cause than we always believed and therefore a different approach to treatment?

According to a growing group of natural health advocates, everything you have always been taught about dental health is wrong. They believe that your teeth and gums are an excellent reflection of your overall nutrition levels and overall state of health. Your teeth are not an island, simply reacting to sugar, brushing and fluoridated water.

Your teeth and gums are living body parts that respond to vitamins, minerals and fatty acids just as your skin, hair, muscles and organs do. Sugar harms your teeth by displacing vital nutrients rather than only having an exterior effect on your dental enamel as is commonly believed. True dental health comes from within your body and teeth via your nutrition levels and enamel hardness comes from the nutrients in your diet.

The majority of followers and researchers that subscribe to this line of thinking, are using the work of Dr. Weston Price as a starting point. Dr. Price made the observation that certain groups of people who lived primitive rather than modern lifestyles and never brushed or flossed, had perfectly healthy teeth with no gum disease or tooth decay. The common denominator he found in those with perfect teeth, was a primarily raw food diet high in quality fats, specific nutrients and the absence of processed foods.

“The world became his laboratory. As he traveled, his findings led him to the belief that dental caries and deformed dental arches resulting in crowded, crooked teeth and unattractive appearance were a sign of physical degeneration, resulting from what he had suspected —nutritional deficiencies.” Realmilk.com

While the primary cause of poor oral health is nutrient deficiencies, some other causes and risk factors for modern tooth decay and gum disease include stress, pacifier use, chewing aspirin, prescription drugs, sports drinks, low fat diets and other similar unnatural behaviors and dietary choices. Oral health is also caused by or a symptom of certain diseases and conditions, such as poor circulation, digestive ailments, allergies, diabetes and hypoglycemia.

Nutritional deficiencies have been proven to cause a number of dental problems. Periodontal disease for example, is linked to a zinc, iron, copper, potassium, magnesium or maganese deficiency. Sugar, alcohol and caffeine all make it impossible for your body’s nutrients to be in balance and therefore have no part in a regime for oral health.

Nutrition for Dental Health
Dr. Price discovered that all of the primitive societies he studied ate similar foods with a similar nutritional makeup. They received huge quantities of vitamins A and D from shellfish, fish eggs and the organ meats and butter from grass fed cows. It is interesting to note that these societies also used the exact same foods in very large quantities for optimal preconception, pregnancy and breastfeeding health. The same societies experienced tremendous increases in tooth decay and deformed dental arches when they adopted a “modern” diet.

Fats are crucial for oral health. If you want optimal health and oral health in particular, then you must eat lots of good, high quality fats such as cod liver oil, butter from grass fed cows and ghee. Skim milk will not work even if it is raw. Neither will low-fat butter even if it is organic. The best choice is organic, raw, full fat, non-homogenized, grass fed animal products such as dairy, cultured dairy and eggs if you can get them.

You cannot be afraid of animal products, animal protein or fat to subscribe to the research of Dr. Price. More than one non-sugar eating vegetarian with inexplicable cavities has switched sides much to their delight and continually improving dental health. Eating raw is very important for both overall health and dental health, but without high quality animal fats that contain A, D and K, your dental health will suffer tremendously. This should only be a problem for hard core vegans, because many vegetarians will still consume dairy and eggs.

One additive your body does not need however, is fluoridated water. Pharmaceutical grade fluoride does have some benefit in cavity protection when applied directly to the surface of the tooth (topically). Ingested fluoride does not provide any benefits to your teeth and is incredibly toxic to your body in a myriad of ways. The fluoride dripped in our water supply (without our consent) is a toxic, industrial waste product that has been scraped from the inside of smokestacks, that is too toxic to “dump” anywhere else so they drip it indiscriminately in our water supply and only those who can afford to buy filtered water can afford to “opt out” of this mandatory drugging. Have you ever wondered why “they” aren’t placing vitamins and minerals in our water supply if they care so much about our health?

Additional nutrients that natural dental health experts recommend are large doses of C0Q10 (300-500 mg daily) and Vitamin C. Other people take Vitamin E, calcium phosphates, monosodium phosphate, B complex (for stress), cranberries and fermented foods. Supplements are fine to take but the results will never match that of whole foods. You can spend time in the sun for your Vitamin D, but that will also not replicate the benefit of high quality animal fat. The company Standard Process makes products specifically designed on the principles of Dr. Price for dental health. You should also take colloidal minerals daily for both your overall health and your dental health.

Topical care for Dental health
Nutrition and dietary choices will keep your teeth healthy from the inside out, but what about keeping them clean on the outside? It is still important to keep your teeth clean even if you have an excellent diet. Avoid traditional toothpastes however. They are loaded with chemicals, sugar, additives and other no-nos. Stick with water, baking soda, salt or bar soap . Advocates of brushing with bar soap recommend Ivory, pure olive oil soap or any other bar soap from your health food store that does not contain sodium silicate or fragrance. Commercial toothpastes will leave a glycerin film on your teeth that will prevent remineralization, so even if you are eating the right minerals in your diet, they cannot help rebuild your teeth and using bar soap keeps your teeth really clean and film free.

Some other topical treatments people use for oral health are Tea tree, Neem, oil of oregano and Magnolia tree bark. You can also try increasing gum circulation with Bayberry root bark, Echinacea root, Peppermint oil or Cayenne pepper. Other dental care options include oil pulling and using a magnetic pulser.

Use un-waxed floss and rub it back and forth across your teeth like you are shining shoes to really clean the surface and leave it ready for remineralization.
Brush first thing in the morning before you eat anything.
Always drink fluids while eating. Water is ideal but milk or coffee will work fine as well.
Be sure to stay hydrated. Adequate saliva production is imperative for dental health. Avoid prescription drugs for the same reason. Over 600 have been proven to reduce saliva which in turn will lead to tooth decay.
Try Xylitol gum. Xylitol has been proven to halt and even reverse tooth decay. An important caveat; Please never, ever chew gum if you have any amalgam fillings. It will increase the rate at which your fillings leak mercury to dangerous levels. This is even more important during pregnancy.
Gum massage Massage your gums 3-4 times a day. This is required for excellent gum circulation and health. Raw vegetables and other foods that stimulate the gums are also excellent (as opposed to soft,chewy processed foods like cereals or breads).
Try using a Sonicare toothbrush with your bar soap and add some hydrogen peroxide in your Waterpik.

Bottom line: Keep your teeth clean and ready for remineralization. Eat lots of good fats so you can absorb the minerals you eat. Avoid processed foods that will displace minerals you eat. Eat high quality animal protein and colloidal minerals which will give you strong healthy teeth from the inside and also allow your teeth to remineralize and pinpoint cavities up to 2millimeters can reverse and remineralize.

Spry gum with Xylitol

Additional Resources:
Campaign for realmilk
Dental Supplement Chart
Purchase Standard Process Dental Supplements
3 Part video series; Cure Tooth Decay and Cavities
Good Teeth, Birth to Death

Image Source: http://flickr.com/photos/missellie/210850207/

Are EMFs Stealing Your Energy?

Natural Health — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 06:00:56 +0000

“In the 1950’s and 60’s before so many atomic bomb explosions had occurred, the world was in a much more balanced state, with both hemispheres in harmony. Today’s excessive electromagnetic pollution is aided by the destruction of our forests and we have changed our climate to such a degree that even the nature of electric storms has changed.”Consumerhealth.org

By: mcomo

Many of us wake up in the morning being attacked by electromagnetic frequencies
(EMFs) from our clock radio which is usually a short distance from our head. If it’s a real cold night, some may even curl up with their electric blanket for another dose of EMFs. Before leaving the house in the morning we are exposed to more EMFs from blow dryers, electric shavers, electric tooth brushes, coffee makers and microwaves. On our way to work, we might make a few calls on our cell phone. Once we arrive at the office, we flip on the overhead florescent lights, power up the copier, fax machine, computer and talk on the phone throughout the day. When we go back home, we turn on the TV or stereo, stand in the kitchen and cook dinner while surrounded by all electrical appliances and repeat the same thing all over again the next day.

We are constantly being bombarded with electromagnetic frequencies. All electrical devices emit these frequencies. Some experts believe that EMFs are a real threat and can cause or contribute to cancer, brain tumors, leukemia, birth defects, miscarriages, chronic fatigue, poor immunity, heart problems and stress, as well as zap your overall energy.

Dr. David Carpenter, Dean at the School of Public Health, State University of New York believes it is likely that up to 30% of childhood cancers come from exposure to EMF. Some scientists believe that over exposure to EMFs are responsible for a high rate of suicide among electric utility workers. Researchers at the University of North Carolina believe that EMFs contribute to the decrease in melatonin levels which in turn can cause sleeplessness, depression and suicide.

Advanced technology is wonderful and most people are not willing to give up modern day conveniences, but there are things that you can do to reduce EMF exposure. You can purchase a devise called a gauss meter and it will help you measure the amount of EMFs being emitted from appliances, electronics, power outlets, etc. When the meter measures something high in EMFs, the gauge will register in the red zone and beep.

“In addition to the long-term health concerns, buying a house with high fields will be an economic disaster. In a few years, when power line radiation is as well known as asbestos and radon, a house with high fields will be practically impossible to sell. Already there are hundreds of lawsuits regarding EMFs and property devaluation.” Mercola.com

I took a gauss meter through my whole house and office and did a lot of rearranging to minimize exposure. The most amazing thing I found was that my alarm clock emitted EMFs 5 feet in every direction. I moved it across the room, then I noticed one of my cats was sleeping next to it so I got rid of it altogether and purchased a little battery operated one. It’s the digital display LED type that is high in EMFs. The TV, which I thought would be the worst, only emitted harmful EMFs 3 feet out from the front and 5 feet out from the sides. TV Manufacturers have really improved on this. The refrigerator was another shocker. It was in the (high) red zone 3 feet out from the front and sides. The oven also measured high. I don’t have a microwave, so I went to a friend’s house and my meter measured EMF 5 to 6 feet in every direction when running and 3-4 feet when it was not. All I could think of was all the children standing in front of the microwave oven waiting for their food; day after day. That’s scary. I also wonder what it does to the food. Please keep this in mind when storing nutritional supplements. Keep them away from EMF, for it will reduce their potency. My computer also measured very high for a good 3 feet.

There are many things that can be done to minimize exposure. Try not to stay in the kitchen when appliances are in use, especially the microwave. Keep phones and alarm clocks away from your body while sleeping. Avoid sleeping with an electric blanket. Turn it on to warm the bed and then unplug it. Waterbeds that heat the water with electricity are bad news. Position your computer as far away as possible from where you sit. A flat screen monitor reduces EMF exposure. Change all fluorescent lights to incandescent ones. If using a cell phone, try to keep it as far away from your body as possible. Consider an ear piece to use with your cell phone; otherwise the transmitter is only a few inches from your brain.

There are also a variety of products on the market to help reduce the harmful effects of EMF such as diodes, special crystals, magnets and pendants. Some are placed directly on the electrical device and others are worn on the body. Of these devices, the Q link pendant is my personal favorite and has undergone many studies and has numerous testimonials on its effectiveness in counteracting the ill effects of harmful EMFs.

Have a safe and happy spring and summer…and not to worry, for your gas grill is totally free from EMFs.

“We are not trying to sensationalize this health problem, we are trying desperately to wake people up to how big this problem is and what these radiations are doing to all of us, especially our children, grandchildren, and future generations.” Electropollution.org

Buy the E.L.F. Zone Gaussmeter

Article Source: http://www.uberarticles.com/articles

This Article provided by Michael 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. Michael Comeau has been owner of many successful businesses over the years including his current online business which can be viewed at www.workfromhome4dollars.com/ Keep up to date on all of my articles with my FREE NewsLetter at www.workfromhome4dollars.com/NewsLetter.php

How and Why to Meditate

Natural Health — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 05:00:08 +0000

“Yoga and meditation techniques are being implemented in management of life threatening diseases; in transformation of molecular and genetic structure; in reversal of mental illnesses, in accelerated learning programs, in perceptions and communications beyond the physical, in solving problems and atomic and nuclear physics; in gaining better ecological understanding; in management of lifestyle and future world problems.” Healthandyoga.com

Meditation is healthy, safe and affordable. In fact it’s free. The only expense you’ll have is a meditation mat, which isn’t even necessary-at least from my experience. Meditation has been around for 5,000 years, and was originally a spiritual component of yoga. Through the years non-yogis adopted it, intuitively sensing and connecting the practice with greater peace of mind. Personally, I can’t say enough good things about meditation. Its use has rewarded me with less worry and much more energy. But I’ve never been one for anecdotal evidence. Let’s get to the science…

Transcendental Meditation
Recently, there’s an incredible amount of science tied into the benefits of meditation. The studies are endless and cover a variety of meditative practices. On Transcendental Meditation alone (mantra repetition) there are over 500 studies. Some are more noteworthy that others. A study in the Japanese Journal of Public Health found that through Transcendental Meditation, industrial workers sleep improved and their smoking decreased. Another study conducted at the MERU Research Institute, in Buckinghamshire, England found that the length of time practicing the Transcendental Meditation and TM-Sidhi program correlated with younger biological age and younger functional age.

Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation, which asks us to focus on our breath to facilitate awareness of the present moment, is another widely studied meditation technique. After studying the effects of 8-weeks of mindfulness meditation on participants, a 2003 report in the Journal of Psychosomatic Medicine concluded: “A short program in mindfulness meditation produces demonstrable effects on brain and immune function.” Impressive, but fairly vague. To get a more committed response to the benefits of meditation we have to turn to Taiwan. In 2002 their journal Chang Gung Medicine reported that “training in MM may be a medically superior and cost-effective alternative to pain medication for the control of headaches with no underlying organic causes in highly motivated patients.”

Stress Reduction and Meditation
What causes these positive physical changes? To answer this, other research has looked at the specifics of what happens in the body during meditation. . Researchers at the Maharishi School of Management in Fairfield, Iowa, found that meditation has an enormous impact on stress reduction. When they examined a group who had meditated for four months they saw that they produced less of the stress hormone cortisol. They were therefore better able to adapt to stress in their lives, no matter what their circumstances were.

Having balanced cortisol levels is essential to mental and emotional health. Notice I say balanced rather than none. We don’t want to completely eliminate cortisol. If we did we’d be dead. Even low cortisol levels can be dangerous. Not enough cortisol is the identifying trait of Addison’s disease. John F. Kennedy had this condition, which he denied passionately during his presidency. Yet during his term he regulated his levels through hydrocortisone (synthetic cortisol). The reverse of JFK’s condition is called Cushings Syndrome.

The five most common and noticeable changes of this condition include; red face and puffy cheeks; excess fat surrounding the collar bones, muscle weakness, and hypertension. But we don’t have to have Cushing’s Syndrome to be damaged by extra cortisol. The changes we experience may be subtle variations of these. Plus, the changes caused by excess cortisol are age dependent. Young people may stop growing and teenagers can develop acne. The mature among us aren’t safe either. Since excess cortisol damages bone-tissue those over age 60 may develop fractures related to osteoporosis. So it’s evident that if we can regulate cortisol, especially through a natural process, we owe it to ourselves to try.

“The brain waves of meditators show why they’re healthier. Neuroscientists have found that meditators shift their brain activity to different areas of the cortex—brain waves in the stress-prone right frontal cortex move to the calmer left frontal cortex. In other words, they were calmer and happier than before.” Psychologytoday.com

Other Benefits of Meditation
Regina Drueding, MD, is a meditation instructor at Life Circles in Utah, USA. She quotes the benefits of meditation as follows: “more energy, improved quality of sleep, decreased anxiety, lessened chronological aging, improved concentration, improved visual acuity, increased alertness and heightened immunity.” She writes: “Besides the benefits mentioned earlier, meditation results in improvement of hypertension, sleep disorders, headaches, heartrhythm disturbances, chronic pain – pain due to cancer, infertility and irritable bowel syndrome. Following meditation, mental and physical refreshment result – and benefits are cumulative with regular practice.”

How to Meditate

Meditation is both simple and complex. It’s like defining the color orange: When you see it you know it. Similarly, the experience of meditation is best, well…experienced. In an article in New View magazine, Shippensburg University’s Dr. C. George Boeree describes the basics of Buddhist meditation. In summary, the beginner’s technique is as follows:

1. Sit or kneel comfortably.

2. The hands are loose and open with the palms up, one atop the other and thumbs lightly touching.

3. Head is upright. Eyes may be closed or open. If open they should focus on your hands or a spot nearby.

4. Beginning meditators should count upwards to ten on each exhale. Breathe in a relaxed and natural way. Then begin again at one and repeat. Continue to breathe naturally.

5. Continue for 15 minutes.

In my personal experience, I don’t find that the specific length of time is as important as repetition and persistence. To paraphrase, 10 minutes daily beats 15 minutes once a week. This brings me to another point: We all have different personalities and as such, different meditation approaches suit some more than others. Thankfully there are many varieties of meditation. Some varieties have sub-varieties.

Mindfulness meditation is one of these versatile practices. Perhaps it’s because its essence-awareness of the present moment-is so versatile. Mindfulness in our daily life can be practiced by slowing down and attending to our surroundings. What are our 5 senses telling us? We can use mindfulness in the middle of a hectic day, such as paying attention to our breathing when stopped at a traffic light. We can also use other everyday events as triggers for mindfulness. Buckling your seatbelt? Make this a reminder to return to the present. Really think about what you’re doing and the details of the experience.

The more traditional may benefit from a more formal mindfulness practice. You may sit in the identical form as in traditional Buddhist meditation- on a chair or kneeling. However, you may also sit with your legs crossed. Your eyes are closed and your posture is both straight and relaxed while your head remains upright. Focus on your breath and allow mental chatter to float by without regard. Thoughts, emotions and sensations will come, but don’t be influenced by them. Keep focused on your breath. If you are getting involved with your thoughts don’t worry-your efforts aren’t destroyed. The key thing is to bring your attention back to breathing and continue. This can go on for 5 minutes to 5 hours. It’s up to you.

Transcendental Meditation is another popular form of meditation. Generally, this type is practiced twice daily for a period of 15-20 minutes. Again, this technique involves sitting comfortably. Yet in contrast to basic Buddhist the eyes stay closed. Each student is given a mantra and is instructed to induce relaxation through use of this mantra. Since many of either can’t or won’t go to a formal TM class, a no-fail mantra I recommend is the classic OM. In The Heart of Yoga, T.K.V Desikachar writes that repetition of “OM” enables us to maintain mental and emotional calmness, overcome obstacles and enable understanding. It is the shortest of the mantras, and is said to be suggestive of God. If you’re uncomfortable with the religious aspects of OM I suggest a word that has positive meaning for you, such as love, calm or peace. Calm is an ideal substitute, since vocally it resembles OM.

Final Word
You may never, ever choose to meditate. Yet if this is your choice it may be valuable to question why. For a long time I was reluctant because of images of the dropout hippie 60’s. Yet when I tried it the experience overcame my reservations. If you try it the same may happen to you. If it doesn’t you haven’t lost any money, and you’ve gained a new experience.

“If you practice regularly, the benefits of meditation will promote a sense of calm and control, you’ll feel far more relaxed and happy. Your ability to concentrate will be greater. You won’t become stressed about things and you’ll feel more peaceful and relaxed about everything. One of the greatest benefits of meditation is learning to go with the flow and things that used to irritate you before simply become insignificant.” Project-meditation.org

Buy the: Folding Travel Zabuton Set

Resources:
Getting in the Gap: Making Conscious Contact with God Through Meditation (Hay House Inc., 2003)

The Miracle of Mindfulness by Thich Nhat Hanh (Beacon Press, 1975)

Galina Pembroke

Article Source: http://www.uberarticles.com/articles

How Indian Massage Can Make a World of Difference

Natural Health — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 19:22:05 +0000

Author: Tania Penwell

Indian massage can be your solution for looking gorgeous, smelling splendid and feeling on top of the world! Read this article to find out how this ancient art of touch can help you in your complete rejuvenation.

Touch is the most basic mode of communication between two human beings. Due to the fact that massage involves this magic touch, massage promotes health—both psychological and emotional.

How?
Massage improves circulation, supports neurological functions, helps in digestion by providing gas relief and strengthens overall immunity.

Massage act as stimulant for the skin receptors and the nerves and triggers off the ‘feel-good’ hormones, especially the endorphins. This helps the nerves and muscles relax. Massage also helps alleviating pain simply by refusing to receive pain signals from brain.

The end result is: you get a feeling of complete relaxation—both in your body and mind. With tensions and stresses gone, you gain back the keenness of your senses.

How Indian Massage Therapy is different
Massage takes different approaches in different parts of the world. The Indian massage therapy or the Ayurvedic massage has been practiced since antiquity. Massage has always received a scientific perception in the writing of the Scholars of ancient India. This traditional Indian technique was based on Ayurvedic Doshas and Marmas—the pressure points in the Western reflexology. Here are some basic points:

The focal point in Ayurvedic massage technique is: different pressure points of the body. As a healing agent, Indian massage involves the use of different types of touch and pressure or flowing movements.

Ayurvedic massage is applied to the skin in a way so that the tissues underlying it are relieved of muscular tension and pains. This form of massage may involve either particular parts of body—as for example, Indian head massage—or full body massage. Indian massage often involves the use of different types of aromatherapy oils—hot or cold. All of these result in relaxation of the body and promote a sense of overall well-being.

Indian Massage—an experience of lifetime
In the interior of India, you will get to see people receiving massage in the corners of the streets for a few rupees; although they often lack formal training, they have acquired the art as a part of community tradition.

But for a life changing experience, you should visit a luxury Indian spa where trained and experienced masseurs will offer you traditional Ayurvedic massage for a holistic rejuvenation. Here are some of the varieties of Ayurvedic massage you can experience in the different parts of India, especially in the Spa Resorts in Kerala, in southern fringes of the peninsula.

Panchakarma treatment
The gentle process that promotes deep cleansing without discomfort. This is a massage technique that helps eliminate toxins from the body accumulated in areas like the lymph, circulatory, and immune systems.

Abhyanga Massage
The fastest toxin expelling technique - this is a luxurious full body indulgence with medicated oils containing herbs and ingredients that pacify the unbalanced Vata, Pitta, and Kapha energies.

Ayurvedic Head Massage
The technique that ends mental fatigue - this massage is done with oils containing herbs that pacify the nerves and stimulate the brain for better functioning. This massage can be your ultimate solution for getting rid of emotional fatigue, confusions and for enhanced clarity of mind.

Full Body Steam
Expelling toxins with the help of steam - this is a full body massage technique, much different from ordinary sauna; here the steam contains vapors of detoxifying and balancing herbs. However, the head and neck areas are excluded in this massage. In addition of relieving body from toxins, it also moisturizes and dehydrates the skin giving it a baby soft glow.

Shirodhara
The ultimate stress reliever - this amazing technique involves trickling of a warm stream of mixture of cooling and balancing herbal oils and medicated ghee over the forehead in a continuous flow. To enhance the effect, the treatment is carried on in a quiet, soothing atmosphere. If you happen to suffer from any one of these: chronic neuro-muscular disorders, hypertension, insomnia, depression, anxiety, headaches or restlessness—- Shirodhara is the technique you must give a try to get rid of these menaces for once and for all.

For generations, Indian massage has been trusted for having a powerful effect on the mental and emotional well being of the individuals.

Come and experience the difference yourself!

About the author:
Tania Penwell provides information on Indian massage and other types of massage for Savvy Cafe - your guide to living life to the fullest!

Buy the Book: Indian Head Massage: with Fold-out back cover - the massage routine in full colour photographs

EMF - Protect Yourself From Electromagnetic Fields

Natural Health — Wed, 22 Aug 2007 19:15:23 +0000

by Dr. James P. Urban

A Funny Thing Happened
Not long ago, I was riding my bike on a familiar trail near my home. I was deeply engrossed in possible topics for articles downloadable from our Natural Healing Tools web site.

The trail is about 20 miles long. Three to four miles of it run under large power lines towering over the path. Suddenly, it hit me - the topic of my next article. EMF! That buzzing sound overhead was coming from those power lines just above me. No, I couldn’t see the field of energy emanating from the lines, but I sure could sense that I was passing through an area I wasn’t comfortable with. Then, I remembered that I usually picked up my pace a little when I reached this stretch of trail, probably out of a sense of self-preservation.

Trying to not overreact, I remember thinking, “Hey, what you can’t see won’t hurt you…right?” I thought a little longer, then got the hell out’a there!

Over the last several years, I’ve speculated about the numbers of artificial energy sources - sources of EMF, or Electromagnetic Fields - that fill our environment. I, perhaps like you, question just how safe places like the path under the power lines are, despite overt signs of harm. Here’s where I come down on the subject of EMF. Just my opinion, but based on a growing body of hard evidence and many hours of in-depth investigation.

A Little About EMF
As a kid, I remember learning that our Sun, Earth and other bodies naturally radiate electromagnetic energy of varying frequencies and intensities. Perhaps you’ve experienced the low electromagnetic frequencies generated by a lightning storm - you can feel the lightening.

Our sun is a natural source of EMF. We’re told to use sunscreen to protect us from UV radiation. The Northern Lights are actually solar radiation colliding with the gases in the Earth’s atmosphere. Without the protection of the atmosphere we would be bombarded with harmful, much more intense and potentially fatal radiation.

But these are natural sources of electromagnetic radiation and there’s only so much we can do about them. What about the new forms of artificially generated radiation? Modern technology has introduced countless new sources of electromagnetic radiation.

Some estimates suggest that humankind today is subjected to 100 to 200 million times more electro-magnetic radiation than our distant ancestors. One hundred to 200 million times more! How can that possibly be good for us? The sources? Those power lines I mentioned earlier, but also computers, TV’s, radio towers, cell phones and microwave ovens, to name just a few.

One recognized authority on the subject of EMF, Robert O. Becker, states in his book “Cross Currents” (pg.188), “We have now almost reached a state in which the entire electromagnetic spectrum has been filled up with man-made frequencies. Our electric-power systems oscillates (operates) at 50 or 60 times per second (50 - 60 Hz), just above the highest naturally occurring frequency of 30 Hz. Our microwave beams operate at billions of times per second and are getting even closer to the trillion-cycle frequencies of visible light. We have filled the previously empty electromagnetic spectrum between these two extremes with man-made radiation that never existed before on Earth. And we did it in less than eighty years.”

Here’s the problem.
We’re the guinea pigs! In a sense, we have been silently recruited to participate in some ongoing experiment that will impact us long-term in ways we can only imagine. Only through the outspoken concern of people and groups has the issue of what many call “electropollution” been brought to the forefront.

According to Becker, there is a growing body of scientific evidence showing that exposure to man-made electromagnetic fields results in significant abnormalities in the physiology and function of living organisms. The potential risks to human health, he says, are well documented.

In his book “The Body Electric” (pg.327), Becker states, “Three dangers of EMF overshadow all others. The first has been conclusively proven: ELF, electromagnetic fields vibrating at about 30 to 100 hz, even if they are weaker than the earth’s field, interfere with the cues that keep our biological cycles properly timed; chronic stress and impaired disease resistance result. Second, the available evidence strongly suggests that regulation of cellular growth processes is impaired by electropollution, increasing cancer rates and producing serious reproductive problems. Electromagnetic weapons constitute a third class of hazards culminating in climactic manipulation from a sorcerer’s-apprentice level of ignorance.”

So, what are the implications?
Let’s look at what’s known. All of those electrical devices with which we surround ourselves - office machines, computers and other devices that get plugged into a wall socket - all operate at a frequency of 60Hz. The huge power lines that cover over 500,000 miles across the United States operate at 60Hz. Studies show that these 60 Hz frequencies (ELF, extremely low frequency) have damaging effects on all life forms of life. These frequencies are suspected of contributing to or even causing depression, suicides, psychosis, cancer, leukemia and a number of other physical and mental problems. Scientific evidence also indicate these frequencies can influence our genetic material during cell division, possibly linking chronic exposure to the origins of cancer (Becker, above).

Then there are those devices that operate at the other end of the electromagnetic spectrum, like our cell phones. Cell phones use microwaves that oscillate at billions of times per second. What are the long-term effects of using devices that operate at billions of time per second? We simply don’t know. This is an area that is much less understood. What can we do to protect ourselves? Here’s what I do and don’t do. Again, this is what I think and believe based on compelling scientific evidence and hundreds of hours of investigation. Follow your conscience.

* Don’t position your electric clock radio in close proximity to your head.

* Minimize all electrical devices in your bedroom.

* If you sleep with an electric blanket, turn it on before you get in bed and unplug it when you get in. Never keep it on while sleeping.

* Avoid waterbed heaters.

* Sit at least arms length away from your computer.

* Stay back from appliances when running - microwave, electric range, all of them.

* The larger your TV screen the further back you should sit (a readily available hand held meter will test EMF and help you determine how far back you should be).

* Stay at least ½ miles away from TV or radio towers.

* Avoid long conversations on cell phones and always wear an earpiece (above 2 minutes has shown alterations in electrical activity of the brain for at least 1 hr. after use.)

* Don’t wear your cell phone on your belt or in a pocket while it is on (you are still absorbing radiation)

* Use a landline instead of your cell phone whenever possible.

* Limit your time spent under fluorescent lights (they produce much different magnetic fields compared with incandescent bulbs.

* Before you buy a home have it tested for high levels of EMF.

* Consider proper grounding of household wiring.

* Use protective devices that have been tested in areas where there is increased EMF exposure (workplace, home, vehicle).

In the meantime ………
We’re just now beginning to understand how electromagnetic fields affect living organisms. More hard knowledge and wider awareness are needed to help us make wise choices and ensure a safe future of the generations to come. We continue to see newer advances in technology that outpace the research being done to warn us of potential dangers. Most people continue to enjoy the comforts of these new technologies but never think about the consequences of using them.

The choice to use or not use these new devices and how often or long to use them is an individual one. I’m unwilling to let the never-ending new sources of EMF work their way into my home, my car, my clothing and my work area without questioning and limiting my exposure to them. For my money, no exposure and very limited exposure is the way to go. Until there are uniform guidelines based on hard scientific evidence about how much and how long are safe for each type of device, I choose to do without or do with less.

It’s time we stop letting ourselves be guinea pigs. It’s time we start insisting that those elected or appointed to protect us do their job. It’s time to find out what is and isn’t happening to us after hours, days, weeks, months and years of exposure.

Looking for a little protection from the harmful effects of EMF? Check out the Circuit Sweeper on our Natural Healing Tools.com web site. For heavy EMF conditions the Circuit Sweeper’s 12 Pointed Resonator adds a protective broadcast to the area surrounding the Circuit Sweeper, giving you two sweeps in one unit. I have them in my home.

About the Author:

James P. Urban DC is the president of Natural Healing Tools Inc., a company providing health and wellness tools and current up-to-date information geared towards a healthy lifestyle.

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Pilates Basics and Benefits

Natural Health — Wed, 01 Aug 2007 19:39:16 +0000

According to About.com, “Pilates (pronounced puh-LAH-teez) is something like a cross between yoga, stretching and calisthenics.” This fast growing type of exercise is exceptionally popular with good reasons. It makes you look and feel fantastic. It builds strength without bulk, provides excellent stretching, integrates mind with body and tones your body like you will not believe.

By: Tammy Foster
Pilates Basics is the foundation of exercises originally developed by Joseph H. Pilates to benefit bed-bound patients during World War I. Pilates developed a series of basic exercises designed to help patients tone and lengthen their muscles. Eventually he brought his Pilates basics to New York where he developed a loyal following.

Pilates basics are known for using intense concentration on a specific body part as well as on a specific series of breathing techniques while you perform a prescribed series of movements. It is the combination of these challenges which make Pilates a champion exercise.

With Pilates, one of the very first things you will need to learn is to focus on the “powerhouse” or the core of your body. It is just a fancy way of saying “your abdomen”. The basics of Pilates teach that if you work your body movements from the core or the powerhouse, then your muscles will move more easily and fully through their entire range of motion.

With the focus of Pilates being on the abdominal muscles, these muscles must get stronger in order to allow you to fully execute the movements of Pilates. The spinal and abdominal muscles make up the powerhouse muscles and should be your focus throughout each movement. The abdominal muscles are made up of the rectus abdominis, the transverse abdominis, and the internal and external obliques.

Pilates basics focuses on creating strong abdominal and spinal muscles which work together to improve strength, coordination, flexibility and balance.

Maybe you have seen the huge Pilates contraptions and have avoided Pilates because you do not want that in your home. Never fear. Many Pilates classes are floor based and require nothing more than a mat or carpet. It also helps to have either an instructor, a book or a DVD until you get your form right. There are still Pilates studios that use the equipment and some classes use various equipment such as exercise balls, bands or rings.

If all of this sounds a bit too soft for your exercise taste, make no mistake, Pilates is not a soft and fluffy exercise. If you have any doubt, then take the time to pick up a DVD of Winsor Pilates. In this particular slant to traditional Pilates, Mari Winsor has developed a series of Pilates exercises which she calls “dynamic sequencing” which even on a good day will leave you with your tongue hanging out!

One of the best things about Pilates is that it is gentle on the joints. For this reason it can be practiced by the majority of all folks, even those who are just getting started with a fitness routine. Many Pilates practitioners believe this form of exercise will leave you feeling better and not worse.

Pilates will leave you feeling taller, leaner, energized and confident. The breathing exercises that accompany all Pilates movements will help you to feel calmer and more centered.

So why not give Pilates a try? You will be glad you did and your body will thank you for it! The basics of Pilates give you a certain set of exercises along with specific breathing patterns all focused on helping your tone and strengthen your abdominal powerhouse.

More energy, confidence and strength makes Pilates basics sound like a plan for me!

If you are trying to decide between Pilates and Yoga, why not choose both? While they have many similarities, they may offer dramatically different results. In my experience, I find Yoga to be calming, centering, and it seems to give me a sort of quiet strength. That is why yoga is such an excellent way to start each and every day. I find that Pilates, on the other hand, increases my strength and flexibility like yoga, but also leaves me feeling energized, enthusiastic and invigorated. It may affect other people differently but that is my take on it. I feel yoga is an essential part of my morning routine, and Pilates is something that I really look forward to and try hard to make time for at least three times a week if I can.

Article Source: http://www.uberarticles.com/articles

For more information on Pilates be sure to visit the-pilates-zone.com. You’ll find tips and advice on Pilates techniques, Pilates basics, Pilates and pregnancy, and much more information. Get your own completely unique content version of this article.

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Home & Herbal Remedies to Reduce Stress

Natural Health — Sun, 22 Jul 2007 18:10:48 +0000

by Alien

Stress can affect our body as much as the food we eat does. Stress can be defined as a state manifested by a specific syndrome that consist of all the non-specifically induced changes within a biological system. Any condition that harms the body or causes the death of a few or many cells is termed as stress.

Some Causes of stress

* Hormonal factors

* Chronic disease

* Overload of work

* Feeling of inferiority

* Emotional factors

* Feeling overwhelmed

* Not being true to one’s self

*Failure to say no

*Abusive relationships

*Financial burdens

Home Remedies for stress

* Yogurt is the best food remedy for stress removal because it is rich in vitamin A, B complex and vitamin D.

* Blackstrap molasses is also an effective food remedy. It is a by-product of the sugar refining process and rich in iron and B vitamins.

* Alfalfa and sunflower seeds are very effective in the treatment of stress.

* Sprouts are an effective because they are rich in calcium.

* The leaves of Holy Basil known as Tulsi are very beneficial in the treatment of stress. Chew 12 leaves of Basil twice in a day during morning and evening for preventing stress.

* Using various Ayurvedic herbs like Brahmi, Ashwagandha and St.John Wort are very beneficial in the treatment of stress. These herbs can be taken in form of capsules or can be infused in boiling water to make tea.

* A hot water bath is one of the more beneficial water treatments in providing relief from anxiety and stress.

* Take a brisk walk for at least 45-50 minutes daily for a great stress reliever.

* Yogasanas like pavanmuktasana; sarvangasana, halasana, ardhmatysyendrasana, bhujangasana, dhanurasana, yogamudra, padmasana and trikonasana are beneficial in the treatment of stress.

* Various yogic kriyas like jalaneti, kunjal, pranayamas such as kapalbhati, anuloma-viloma, shitali and shitkari are also effective for stress.

* Meditation is effective in providing relief from stress as it diverts the mind to some good thoughts thus provides stress relief.

* Pantothenic acid is important in preventing stress.

* Coffee, soft drinks, salt, smoking and alcohol should not be taken as they all deplete B vitamins that are considered necessary for reducing stress.

* Regular physical exercise plays very important role against stress as everybody knows that exercise provides relaxation and recreation.

* Take one spoonful of honey in warm water or tea to get immediate relief from stress.

About the Author:

Alien writes for Diabetes blog . He also writes for best cosmetics and skin diseases

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