Correct timing !!!
The correct timing to drink water will maximize its effectiveness to the human body:
1) 2 glasses of water 30 minutes before meal will help digestion
2) 1 glass after you wake up helps activate internal organs
3) 1 glass before you sleep will help avoid stroke or heart attack at midnight
4) 1 glass after taking a bath helps lower blood pressure.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
You can co-create your destiny
You can co-create your destiny
Take responsibility of your life and learn from the past
Human beings are very rarely happy with what they get. More often than not, be it a spouse who simply does not understand the yearnings of your heart, success which teasingly eludes you, childhood abuse, an unexpected medical diagnosis, a lifetime of chasing bills and their payments. We often find life out of control. ‘But why me?’ is a syndrome of the victim which we perceive ourselves to be. I could have done better and been happier, if I had more understanding parents, if my marriage had worked out, if I was physically fit or more qualified. If the planets had been slightly more favourable. The list is endless!!
We remain mired in this play of “ifs” and “buts” until one day there is a turning point and one realises that one will never be happy in a thousand years if one always is going to need something external to ones self to fulfill and make one truly happy. When we become extremely determined to get out of the endless misery of discontent and powerlessness of the victim mind set, we question life’s laws and justice and search within with the torch of an honesty, which initially digs out the dirty nooks (greed, jealousy, anger, selfishness) and then also illumines the strengths.
You also discover or uncover a theme or pattern in your life. Some of us have a habit of getting attracted to those who are insincere and unfaithful. Some are accident-prone and others are ‘failure-prone’. A person with a clawing parent often ends up with a clawing spouse. Generally a person who goes for a remarriage without having allowed the lessons of the first marriage to sink in and transform, repeats the flavor in the second marriage as well. Some go job hopping and others find themselves at eternal loggerheads with authority figure – be it father or boss. Another person may have a life pattern of always encountering a person who is demanding and possessive. The tune of the theme song is so familiar, only the lyrics slightly change.
Take responsibility of your life and learn from the past
Human beings are very rarely happy with what they get. More often than not, be it a spouse who simply does not understand the yearnings of your heart, success which teasingly eludes you, childhood abuse, an unexpected medical diagnosis, a lifetime of chasing bills and their payments. We often find life out of control. ‘But why me?’ is a syndrome of the victim which we perceive ourselves to be. I could have done better and been happier, if I had more understanding parents, if my marriage had worked out, if I was physically fit or more qualified. If the planets had been slightly more favourable. The list is endless!!
We remain mired in this play of “ifs” and “buts” until one day there is a turning point and one realises that one will never be happy in a thousand years if one always is going to need something external to ones self to fulfill and make one truly happy. When we become extremely determined to get out of the endless misery of discontent and powerlessness of the victim mind set, we question life’s laws and justice and search within with the torch of an honesty, which initially digs out the dirty nooks (greed, jealousy, anger, selfishness) and then also illumines the strengths.
You also discover or uncover a theme or pattern in your life. Some of us have a habit of getting attracted to those who are insincere and unfaithful. Some are accident-prone and others are ‘failure-prone’. A person with a clawing parent often ends up with a clawing spouse. Generally a person who goes for a remarriage without having allowed the lessons of the first marriage to sink in and transform, repeats the flavor in the second marriage as well. Some go job hopping and others find themselves at eternal loggerheads with authority figure – be it father or boss. Another person may have a life pattern of always encountering a person who is demanding and possessive. The tune of the theme song is so familiar, only the lyrics slightly change.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Regulating haste while meditating
Regulating haste while meditating
Haste is created when one is in a hurry to experience the bliss of meditation, which in turn hinders one from reaching meditative bliss
Meditation has been recognized as the most potent spiritual practice benefiting and enhancing ones life dramatically. It is a tool, which attempts to transcend the person to eternity, and the bliss is so much that one perhaps wants to enjoy it forever, blissfully unaware about the duration of the meditative journey.
Each session stands out as the milestone for the next meditative ecstasy and this is fairly addictive. One tends to fall into the trap of overexcitement and haste, resultantly not able to meditate blissfully.
By doing the following prevent haste in meditation
Do not expect
Preconceived notions and ideas about the experiences of meditation from self or others, actually takes one away from it. As one keeps hoping to see and feel what he / she wants to see, it is as good as thinking quietly rather than meditating. Therefore, one needs to be like a child oblivious without expectations, of what one may experience.
Do not compare
Each time one starts meditating one needs to acknowledge it as a unique session and start afresh. The thought of getting into the groove of blissful experience in the past slows down the progress and one gets fixated to an experience thereby loosing the opportunity of new experiences. Hence, avoid comparing.
Auto-suggest that you having all the time in the world
While meditating if one realizes the he / she is falling into the trap of haste of reaching the peak of bliss experienced in the past, start auto-suggesting that “I have all the time in the world”, “I am born only to do this”, “My work in this life is just to meditate”, “I am here to know myself”.
Breathe as slowly as you can
To prevent haste from taking over one should breathe as slowly as one can. Take 5-7 seconds to inhale, take another 5 seconds to hold on to breath and exhale in 5-7 seconds.
Haste is created when one is in a hurry to experience the bliss of meditation, which in turn hinders one from reaching meditative bliss
Meditation has been recognized as the most potent spiritual practice benefiting and enhancing ones life dramatically. It is a tool, which attempts to transcend the person to eternity, and the bliss is so much that one perhaps wants to enjoy it forever, blissfully unaware about the duration of the meditative journey.
Each session stands out as the milestone for the next meditative ecstasy and this is fairly addictive. One tends to fall into the trap of overexcitement and haste, resultantly not able to meditate blissfully.
By doing the following prevent haste in meditation
Do not expect
Preconceived notions and ideas about the experiences of meditation from self or others, actually takes one away from it. As one keeps hoping to see and feel what he / she wants to see, it is as good as thinking quietly rather than meditating. Therefore, one needs to be like a child oblivious without expectations, of what one may experience.
Do not compare
Each time one starts meditating one needs to acknowledge it as a unique session and start afresh. The thought of getting into the groove of blissful experience in the past slows down the progress and one gets fixated to an experience thereby loosing the opportunity of new experiences. Hence, avoid comparing.
Auto-suggest that you having all the time in the world
While meditating if one realizes the he / she is falling into the trap of haste of reaching the peak of bliss experienced in the past, start auto-suggesting that “I have all the time in the world”, “I am born only to do this”, “My work in this life is just to meditate”, “I am here to know myself”.
Breathe as slowly as you can
To prevent haste from taking over one should breathe as slowly as one can. Take 5-7 seconds to inhale, take another 5 seconds to hold on to breath and exhale in 5-7 seconds.
Monday, October 26, 2009
The knack of getting into trouble
The knack of getting into trouble
Why do drug addicts hang around with fellow drug addicts? Why do spiritual satsang-attendees hang around with similar-minded people?
What is the Page 3 culture all about with everybody who’s part of it talking about dress, stress and less? Why do some people attract wealth wherever they go and whatever they do? Why do we find ourselves sometimes thinking the same thought throughout the week or month? Why is it that some people always have a knack of getting into trouble, like Harbhajan Singh and Sreesanth, and why do some always attract success, like Dhoni? The answer lies in an oft-repeated and randomly-used word: frequency.
We all have a frequency. We operate on one. Our frequency is determined by our breathing rate, and this frequency determines the vibration of the atoms inside us. Everything – living, non-living, animate, inanimate - vibrates because everything comprises atoms. When one person’s vibration is harmonious with another’s, they exclaim, “Oh, we share a similar frequency!” Or “we vibe well” or “our tuning matches”.
In other words, we use physics terms like ‘frequency’, ‘vibration’, ‘tuning’, etc., in our everyday lingo without really understanding the true meaning of the sentences. Put another way, we end up using words that actually denote the big truth, but we simply don’t realise that.
So, two people resonating similarly will have similar interests, tastes, etc., and those whose frequencies don’t match, will have cat-fights galore. “Oh they just can’t ‘get along’ with each other” we say. ‘Get along’ or in other words, ‘resonate’. Likewise, if a person’s frequency resonates with the frequency of a book, that book will become that person’s ‘favourite’ book. Ditto with chair (my favourite chair), food item, toy, corner, etc.
Operating on a set frequency can also give rise to attachments. For instance, different activities or thought processes – like spirituality, sex, reading, gossiping, gambling, cleaning, etc. - have different frequencies. Ordinarily speaking, we call this ‘addiction’. Have you seen people who cannot get sleep without getting their daily dose of gossip? How about those who are addicted to talking and thinking about sex? Then there are some people who are addicted to being scrupulously clean. They keep on cleaning everything. We also call this OCD – Obsessive Compulsive Behaviour.
All these categories of people are ‘frequency-victims’ ie. they are like damaged long-playing records that keeps tripping on a particular point while rotating on the spindle. They will continue to operate on the same frequency as if on autopilot till something happens that suddenly changes their frequency. A typical example would be people who start behaving completely differently from their usual self, after witnessing the death of a close one.
If you find yourself doing an activity repeatedly and want to get rid of that habit, practise slow breathing. A simple way to do this is to watch your breathing – as the air goes in and comes out of your nostrils. Just the act of watching will slow down your breathing. Prolonged differential rate of breathing will change your frequency will snap you out of your addiction.
Remember, there are only two truths in this world – one is you breathe; the other is you will die. Death is not in your hands, but breathing definitely is. It is up to you how correctly you want to breathe. Well, the yogic science of pranayama is all about that, isn’t it?
Why do drug addicts hang around with fellow drug addicts? Why do spiritual satsang-attendees hang around with similar-minded people?
What is the Page 3 culture all about with everybody who’s part of it talking about dress, stress and less? Why do some people attract wealth wherever they go and whatever they do? Why do we find ourselves sometimes thinking the same thought throughout the week or month? Why is it that some people always have a knack of getting into trouble, like Harbhajan Singh and Sreesanth, and why do some always attract success, like Dhoni? The answer lies in an oft-repeated and randomly-used word: frequency.
We all have a frequency. We operate on one. Our frequency is determined by our breathing rate, and this frequency determines the vibration of the atoms inside us. Everything – living, non-living, animate, inanimate - vibrates because everything comprises atoms. When one person’s vibration is harmonious with another’s, they exclaim, “Oh, we share a similar frequency!” Or “we vibe well” or “our tuning matches”.
In other words, we use physics terms like ‘frequency’, ‘vibration’, ‘tuning’, etc., in our everyday lingo without really understanding the true meaning of the sentences. Put another way, we end up using words that actually denote the big truth, but we simply don’t realise that.
So, two people resonating similarly will have similar interests, tastes, etc., and those whose frequencies don’t match, will have cat-fights galore. “Oh they just can’t ‘get along’ with each other” we say. ‘Get along’ or in other words, ‘resonate’. Likewise, if a person’s frequency resonates with the frequency of a book, that book will become that person’s ‘favourite’ book. Ditto with chair (my favourite chair), food item, toy, corner, etc.
Operating on a set frequency can also give rise to attachments. For instance, different activities or thought processes – like spirituality, sex, reading, gossiping, gambling, cleaning, etc. - have different frequencies. Ordinarily speaking, we call this ‘addiction’. Have you seen people who cannot get sleep without getting their daily dose of gossip? How about those who are addicted to talking and thinking about sex? Then there are some people who are addicted to being scrupulously clean. They keep on cleaning everything. We also call this OCD – Obsessive Compulsive Behaviour.
All these categories of people are ‘frequency-victims’ ie. they are like damaged long-playing records that keeps tripping on a particular point while rotating on the spindle. They will continue to operate on the same frequency as if on autopilot till something happens that suddenly changes their frequency. A typical example would be people who start behaving completely differently from their usual self, after witnessing the death of a close one.
If you find yourself doing an activity repeatedly and want to get rid of that habit, practise slow breathing. A simple way to do this is to watch your breathing – as the air goes in and comes out of your nostrils. Just the act of watching will slow down your breathing. Prolonged differential rate of breathing will change your frequency will snap you out of your addiction.
Remember, there are only two truths in this world – one is you breathe; the other is you will die. Death is not in your hands, but breathing definitely is. It is up to you how correctly you want to breathe. Well, the yogic science of pranayama is all about that, isn’t it?
Sunday, October 25, 2009
The perfect antidote to stress
The perfect antidote to stress
Conscious Relaxation involves relaxing the body bit by bit in a controlled, aware manner and is extremely refreshing and rejuvenating
Stress has become such an integral part of our lives, we end up rushing from pillar to post, thought to thought, with little or no regard for our bodies. No wonder a majority of ailments today are stress related ranging from physical symptoms like an increased blood pressure to mental symptoms like reduced concentration and depression.
The perfect antidote to stress is Conscious Relaxation, which is simply allowing our bodies to relax bit by bit in a controlled, aware manner. Not only is it extremely refreshing and rejuvenating, with every exhalation we release the build up of negative energies, toxins and tensions slowly but surely.
Many techniques exist for Conscious Relaxation. These include meditative techniques, Yoga Nidra, progressive muscle relaxation, and techniques used in Hypnotherapy. They are available in the form of classes, CDs and books and can be done by anyone, at anytime, anywhere.
Conscious Relaxation needs no added skill and simply taps into what our human bodies are designed to do naturally, which is breathe and relax. Easy to practice and not requiring more than 20 minutes, a singular session of conscious body relaxation is equivalent to hours of sleep and rest. If practiced daily for as little as 20 minutes, it has the following benefits:
Boosting of energy levels. Energy levels automatically go up when the body relaxes, which makes you more productive and focused in your tasks and chores
You smile more and feel better about yourself. Studies have revealed those who consciously relaxed were more positive in their outlook and were generally optimistic
By consciously letting go of suppressed emotional energies like anger, anxiety and sadness, you will end up feeling lighter after a session of conscious relaxation
Body organs function normally and over time, immunity increases
Decreases muscle tension and allows the release of suppressed mental and emotional energy, promoting feelings of well-being and harmony
Better problem solving abilities and greater concentration especially for students
Conscious Relaxation involves relaxing the body bit by bit in a controlled, aware manner and is extremely refreshing and rejuvenating
Stress has become such an integral part of our lives, we end up rushing from pillar to post, thought to thought, with little or no regard for our bodies. No wonder a majority of ailments today are stress related ranging from physical symptoms like an increased blood pressure to mental symptoms like reduced concentration and depression.
The perfect antidote to stress is Conscious Relaxation, which is simply allowing our bodies to relax bit by bit in a controlled, aware manner. Not only is it extremely refreshing and rejuvenating, with every exhalation we release the build up of negative energies, toxins and tensions slowly but surely.
Many techniques exist for Conscious Relaxation. These include meditative techniques, Yoga Nidra, progressive muscle relaxation, and techniques used in Hypnotherapy. They are available in the form of classes, CDs and books and can be done by anyone, at anytime, anywhere.
Conscious Relaxation needs no added skill and simply taps into what our human bodies are designed to do naturally, which is breathe and relax. Easy to practice and not requiring more than 20 minutes, a singular session of conscious body relaxation is equivalent to hours of sleep and rest. If practiced daily for as little as 20 minutes, it has the following benefits:
Boosting of energy levels. Energy levels automatically go up when the body relaxes, which makes you more productive and focused in your tasks and chores
You smile more and feel better about yourself. Studies have revealed those who consciously relaxed were more positive in their outlook and were generally optimistic
By consciously letting go of suppressed emotional energies like anger, anxiety and sadness, you will end up feeling lighter after a session of conscious relaxation
Body organs function normally and over time, immunity increases
Decreases muscle tension and allows the release of suppressed mental and emotional energy, promoting feelings of well-being and harmony
Better problem solving abilities and greater concentration especially for students
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Quick techniques to restore positive energy
Quick techniques to restore positive energy
The stress of daily life can drain your energy. Find out how you can replenish it
Positive energy is something we can never get enough of, especially in today’s fast paced world that’s full of stress and deadlines. Self-healing is a simple energy healing technique that you can do by yourself for a few minutes. It helps bring your energies back, balances and self heals and also helps re-centre and ground you, especially on days when you feel overwhelmed by multiple demands on your time, or when you feel drained by people and places.
Here are a few time-tested tips, which may help boost your supply of positive energy:
Feel the earth beneath your feet for a few seconds. Establish a connection between your soles and the ground and visualise roots going downwards. If you can walk barefoot in the garden or the park, it would be even better. A quick grounding aid, it helps retain the balance especially on demanding days.
Take 10 Deep Breaths. Make them as slow and deep as you can. Not only does more oxygen reach your brain, you find your blood pressure dropping and a sense of calm enveloping you. Do it as often as you like, anywhere and anytime. Every time you exhale, feel your body relaxing further.
Rub your palms together and feel the vibrations. Gently place them over your closed eyes. Allow the warm energy of your palms to go within you for a few seconds to restore a sense of inner calm and harmony.
Affirmations work very well to raise our energy and to promote feelings of self-confidence and joy. Powerful statements that instil positive thoughts internally, replacing negative thinking effortlessly and easily if practiced daily.
Add a few tablespoons of sea salt or even common salt to your bath water. Not only will it cleanse you thoroughly of negative energy, it will relax your muscles.
Wear white or pastel coloured clothes. These colours resonate at a higher frequency and can actually raise your vibrations and bring in feelings of harmony.
Finally and most importantly, consciously maintain a positive attitude. Refuse to allow negative thoughts to cloud you.
The stress of daily life can drain your energy. Find out how you can replenish it
Positive energy is something we can never get enough of, especially in today’s fast paced world that’s full of stress and deadlines. Self-healing is a simple energy healing technique that you can do by yourself for a few minutes. It helps bring your energies back, balances and self heals and also helps re-centre and ground you, especially on days when you feel overwhelmed by multiple demands on your time, or when you feel drained by people and places.
Here are a few time-tested tips, which may help boost your supply of positive energy:
Feel the earth beneath your feet for a few seconds. Establish a connection between your soles and the ground and visualise roots going downwards. If you can walk barefoot in the garden or the park, it would be even better. A quick grounding aid, it helps retain the balance especially on demanding days.
Take 10 Deep Breaths. Make them as slow and deep as you can. Not only does more oxygen reach your brain, you find your blood pressure dropping and a sense of calm enveloping you. Do it as often as you like, anywhere and anytime. Every time you exhale, feel your body relaxing further.
Rub your palms together and feel the vibrations. Gently place them over your closed eyes. Allow the warm energy of your palms to go within you for a few seconds to restore a sense of inner calm and harmony.
Affirmations work very well to raise our energy and to promote feelings of self-confidence and joy. Powerful statements that instil positive thoughts internally, replacing negative thinking effortlessly and easily if practiced daily.
Add a few tablespoons of sea salt or even common salt to your bath water. Not only will it cleanse you thoroughly of negative energy, it will relax your muscles.
Wear white or pastel coloured clothes. These colours resonate at a higher frequency and can actually raise your vibrations and bring in feelings of harmony.
Finally and most importantly, consciously maintain a positive attitude. Refuse to allow negative thoughts to cloud you.
Friday, October 23, 2009
The benefits of waking up early
Early to bed, early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise”“
Early rising means waking up before sunrise. Waking up at this time means that the blood circulation in our body and mind is positive. Waking up after sunrise causes negative blood circulation and blood flow becomes sluggish. Late rising also induces baseless and negative dreaming and weakens the immune system
Benefits of rising early
The body and mind will stay fresh if you get up before sunrise
Constipation and indigestion will remain under control
The mind and mood will remain cheerful throughout the day
You will have sufficient time to think, plan and organise the day lying ahead of you
The power and capacity of the mind will increase
The memory will sharpen
The eyesight will not get weakened
What to do once you wake-up
Go for a walk in a park or garden with lot of trees, etc. to breathe fresh oxygen
Breathe deeply while walking
Do Yoga followed by Pranayama on an empty stomach (if possible in the open air) to rejuvenate your blood circulation and digestive system.
The best time to wake up early morning is between 3.30 to 4 am, because it is known as Brahma Muhurat or Amrit Vela according to Hindu Shastras (Scriptures). The vibrations during this period are the most rewarding and pure for worship and meditation and can expedite our journey towards God and self-realisation.
The sleep from 11 pm onwards for 5-6 hours is more than sufficient for any normal adult.
One can gaze at the Sun within a period of half an hour of its rising. Both the hands are to be crossed one on top of the other and the Sun can be seen as a dot in the spaces between the thumbs to improve eyesight and increase the concentration of mind. This will add to positivity in life in terms of happiness, success and brilliancy etc.
Suryanamaskar is highly beneficial at this point of time.
Offering water to the Sun in a copper vessel is also considered very good for prosperity.
Early rising means waking up before sunrise. Waking up at this time means that the blood circulation in our body and mind is positive. Waking up after sunrise causes negative blood circulation and blood flow becomes sluggish. Late rising also induces baseless and negative dreaming and weakens the immune system
Benefits of rising early
The body and mind will stay fresh if you get up before sunrise
Constipation and indigestion will remain under control
The mind and mood will remain cheerful throughout the day
You will have sufficient time to think, plan and organise the day lying ahead of you
The power and capacity of the mind will increase
The memory will sharpen
The eyesight will not get weakened
What to do once you wake-up
Go for a walk in a park or garden with lot of trees, etc. to breathe fresh oxygen
Breathe deeply while walking
Do Yoga followed by Pranayama on an empty stomach (if possible in the open air) to rejuvenate your blood circulation and digestive system.
The best time to wake up early morning is between 3.30 to 4 am, because it is known as Brahma Muhurat or Amrit Vela according to Hindu Shastras (Scriptures). The vibrations during this period are the most rewarding and pure for worship and meditation and can expedite our journey towards God and self-realisation.
The sleep from 11 pm onwards for 5-6 hours is more than sufficient for any normal adult.
One can gaze at the Sun within a period of half an hour of its rising. Both the hands are to be crossed one on top of the other and the Sun can be seen as a dot in the spaces between the thumbs to improve eyesight and increase the concentration of mind. This will add to positivity in life in terms of happiness, success and brilliancy etc.
Suryanamaskar is highly beneficial at this point of time.
Offering water to the Sun in a copper vessel is also considered very good for prosperity.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
SPEAK
""We can live without religion and meditation, but we cannot survive without human affection""
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
REIKI
Reiki energy is the same subtle energy that enlivens all of creation. The underlying energetic structure of man, nature and space is gaining more respect today, as we move away from the dominant matter-first paradigm, to one in which consciousness is steadily reclaiming its rightful position. One of the simplest ways to illustrate this is the brain/mind relationship. Most science today still maintains that the mind somehow (proof has been elusive) evolved out of the gray matter of the brain. Perennial traditions know that mind (in this example), or rather consciousness is the very womb of life. In other words, the mind is not limited to the brain and therefore is not regulated by it, although the brain is an instrument of the mind, just as the mind is an instrument of the soul.”
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
The Buddha’s Words on Lovingkindness
The Buddha’s Words on Lovingkindness
This is what should be done
By those who are skilled in goodness,
And who know the path of peace:
Let them be able and upright,
Straightforward and gentle in speech,
Humble and not conceited,
Contented and easily satisfied,
Unburdened with duties and frugal in their ways,
Peaceful and calm, and wise and skillful,
Not proud and demanding in nature.
Let them not do the slightest thing
That the wise would later reprove.
Wishing: in gladness and in safety,
May all beings be at ease.
Whatever living beings there may be;
Whether they are weak or strong, omitting none,
The great or the mighty, medium, short or small,
The seen and the unseen,
Those living near and far away,
Those born and to-be-born—
May all beings be at ease!
Let none deceive another,
Or despise any being in any state.
Let none through anger or ill-will
Wish harm upon another.
Even as a mother protects with her life
Her child, her only child,
So with a boundless heart
Should one cherish all living beings;
Radiating kindness over the entire world,
Spreading upward to the skies,
And downward to the depths;
Outward and unbounded,
Freed from hatred and ill-will.
Whether standing or walking, seated or lying down,
Free from drowsiness,
One should sustain this recollection.
This is said to be the sublime abiding.
By not holding to fixed views,
The pure-hearted one, having clarity of vision,
Being freed from all sense desires,
Is not born again into this world.
This is what should be done
By those who are skilled in goodness,
And who know the path of peace:
Let them be able and upright,
Straightforward and gentle in speech,
Humble and not conceited,
Contented and easily satisfied,
Unburdened with duties and frugal in their ways,
Peaceful and calm, and wise and skillful,
Not proud and demanding in nature.
Let them not do the slightest thing
That the wise would later reprove.
Wishing: in gladness and in safety,
May all beings be at ease.
Whatever living beings there may be;
Whether they are weak or strong, omitting none,
The great or the mighty, medium, short or small,
The seen and the unseen,
Those living near and far away,
Those born and to-be-born—
May all beings be at ease!
Let none deceive another,
Or despise any being in any state.
Let none through anger or ill-will
Wish harm upon another.
Even as a mother protects with her life
Her child, her only child,
So with a boundless heart
Should one cherish all living beings;
Radiating kindness over the entire world,
Spreading upward to the skies,
And downward to the depths;
Outward and unbounded,
Freed from hatred and ill-will.
Whether standing or walking, seated or lying down,
Free from drowsiness,
One should sustain this recollection.
This is said to be the sublime abiding.
By not holding to fixed views,
The pure-hearted one, having clarity of vision,
Being freed from all sense desires,
Is not born again into this world.
Monday, October 19, 2009
ENERGY HEALING
Healing Meditation
Please try this meditation to relax and heal the body mind and soul.
Sit in a comfortable position
Start to imagine that your body is slowly filling with light, starting from the feet and slowly moving upwards
As the light is moving up your body ----- feel that this light is relaxing the muscles and your mind.
Now imagine that any areas of disease or pain in your body is surrounded by a dark shadow which represents the unhealthy area.
I feel the light moving upwards until my entire body is filled with light and every muscle of my body is feeling relaxed.
Now feel that your body of light is radiating the light out from your eyes, the light is shining as if a torch is shinning out from your eyes.
Now feel that you are directing the light towards any area of the body that is giving you pain or discomfort, represented as a shadow on your body.
Feel that you are sending extra light to this area that is in pain or discomfort.
Imagine that the diseased or painful areas have dark shadows surrounding it.
Now feel that you are shinning a loving healing light to the diseased or painful areas so that the darkness is removed.
I radiate my shining light to my body and fill my bodies with this warm healing light.
I now radiate this healing light to the world.
I begin to feel that this healing light is returning me to health and vitality
Perfect health is available to me now.
Please try this meditation to relax and heal the body mind and soul.
Sit in a comfortable position
Start to imagine that your body is slowly filling with light, starting from the feet and slowly moving upwards
As the light is moving up your body ----- feel that this light is relaxing the muscles and your mind.
Now imagine that any areas of disease or pain in your body is surrounded by a dark shadow which represents the unhealthy area.
I feel the light moving upwards until my entire body is filled with light and every muscle of my body is feeling relaxed.
Now feel that your body of light is radiating the light out from your eyes, the light is shining as if a torch is shinning out from your eyes.
Now feel that you are directing the light towards any area of the body that is giving you pain or discomfort, represented as a shadow on your body.
Feel that you are sending extra light to this area that is in pain or discomfort.
Imagine that the diseased or painful areas have dark shadows surrounding it.
Now feel that you are shinning a loving healing light to the diseased or painful areas so that the darkness is removed.
I radiate my shining light to my body and fill my bodies with this warm healing light.
I now radiate this healing light to the world.
I begin to feel that this healing light is returning me to health and vitality
Perfect health is available to me now.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
ENERGY HEALING
This life is yours. Take the power to choose what you want to do and do it well. Take the power to love what you want in life and love it honestly. Take the powaer to walk in the forest and be a part of nature. Take the power to control your own life. No one else can do it for you. Take the power to make your life happy.”
Saturday, October 17, 2009
Arthritis
Arthritis
. Vegetable juices especially a mixture of carrot, beet and cucumber is very beneficial. Green salad with lemon juice, cooked vegetables like pumpkin, spices like ginger, coriander, asafoetida, and turmeric all contribute to the well being of the joints.
. Fruits like apples, oranges, grapes, papaya should be taken liberally. They are sources of vitamin C and vitamin E, which prevent breakdown of cartilage, generate the components necessary for the manufacture of cartilage and help generate collagen.
. Fill a small or medium jar with the whole cloves and cover them completely with mineral oil. Leave this mixture standing for a week or two. At night before going to bed dab the oil mixture onto the affected areas and rub in. The stiffness from arthritis will be greatly lessened.
. Applying either a hot or cold compress to the affected area will help relax the muscles and ease the stiffness.
. Drink sugar-free soda pop. Aspartame, an artificial sweetener found in certain brands provides relief that's comparable to anti-inflammatory agents.
. Epsom salts is commonly used as a soak to relieve aching joints and reduce swelling. Mix a few heaping teaspoons of Epsom salts into bath water and soak.
. Glucosamine supplements, often found in products that contain a combination with chondroitin, help relieve the pain and may slow the joint degeneration associated with osteoarthritis. The recommended dosage is 500 mg of glucosamine three times a day. Consume for two to three months for maximum benefit.
. Vegetable juices especially a mixture of carrot, beet and cucumber is very beneficial. Green salad with lemon juice, cooked vegetables like pumpkin, spices like ginger, coriander, asafoetida, and turmeric all contribute to the well being of the joints.
. Fruits like apples, oranges, grapes, papaya should be taken liberally. They are sources of vitamin C and vitamin E, which prevent breakdown of cartilage, generate the components necessary for the manufacture of cartilage and help generate collagen.
. Fill a small or medium jar with the whole cloves and cover them completely with mineral oil. Leave this mixture standing for a week or two. At night before going to bed dab the oil mixture onto the affected areas and rub in. The stiffness from arthritis will be greatly lessened.
. Applying either a hot or cold compress to the affected area will help relax the muscles and ease the stiffness.
. Drink sugar-free soda pop. Aspartame, an artificial sweetener found in certain brands provides relief that's comparable to anti-inflammatory agents.
. Epsom salts is commonly used as a soak to relieve aching joints and reduce swelling. Mix a few heaping teaspoons of Epsom salts into bath water and soak.
. Glucosamine supplements, often found in products that contain a combination with chondroitin, help relieve the pain and may slow the joint degeneration associated with osteoarthritis. The recommended dosage is 500 mg of glucosamine three times a day. Consume for two to three months for maximum benefit.
Friday, October 16, 2009
Itching
Itching
. Soaking for 15 minutes in a bath in which potato flour is dissolved will help reduce itching.
. Drink half a glass of water in which half a teaspoon of turmeric powder has been dissolved to get relief from itching.
. Make a paste of fresh basil leaves, olive oil, garlic cloves, salt and pepper and smear on the itch.
. Smear almond, peppermint or nettle oil on the rash.
. Scrub the affected area lightly with a pumice stone. Then wash with soap, apply rubbing alcohol, and dab a thick layer of Vaseline over it. This will provide relief from itching.
. Fresh Chickweed poultice is good for itching. This can be made by soaking 2 large handfuls in water. When the plants soften, cool them and apply directly on the skin.
. For widespread or hard-to-reach itches, soak in a baking soda bath. Add 1-cup baking soda to a tub of warm water. Soak for 30 to 60 minutes and air dry. Localized itches can be treated with a baking soda paste. Mix 3 parts baking soda and 1 part water. Apply to the itch, but do not use if the skin is broken.
. Add 1 to 2 cups finely ground oatmeal to a warm bath and soak in it to ease your itches.
. Squeeze undiluted lemon juice on itchy skin and allow to dry.
. Place 0.5 ounce dried basil or thyme leaves in a 1-pint jar of boiling water and then cover it to prevent the eugenol from evaporating. Allow it to cool and then apply the solution to the itching area as often as necessary. Instead of 0.5 ounce of basil or thyme, 1 ounce of dried mint leaves can also be used.
. Application of aloe vera gel to the affected area helps to reduce itching.
. Soaking for 15 minutes in a bath in which potato flour is dissolved will help reduce itching.
. Drink half a glass of water in which half a teaspoon of turmeric powder has been dissolved to get relief from itching.
. Make a paste of fresh basil leaves, olive oil, garlic cloves, salt and pepper and smear on the itch.
. Smear almond, peppermint or nettle oil on the rash.
. Scrub the affected area lightly with a pumice stone. Then wash with soap, apply rubbing alcohol, and dab a thick layer of Vaseline over it. This will provide relief from itching.
. Fresh Chickweed poultice is good for itching. This can be made by soaking 2 large handfuls in water. When the plants soften, cool them and apply directly on the skin.
. For widespread or hard-to-reach itches, soak in a baking soda bath. Add 1-cup baking soda to a tub of warm water. Soak for 30 to 60 minutes and air dry. Localized itches can be treated with a baking soda paste. Mix 3 parts baking soda and 1 part water. Apply to the itch, but do not use if the skin is broken.
. Add 1 to 2 cups finely ground oatmeal to a warm bath and soak in it to ease your itches.
. Squeeze undiluted lemon juice on itchy skin and allow to dry.
. Place 0.5 ounce dried basil or thyme leaves in a 1-pint jar of boiling water and then cover it to prevent the eugenol from evaporating. Allow it to cool and then apply the solution to the itching area as often as necessary. Instead of 0.5 ounce of basil or thyme, 1 ounce of dried mint leaves can also be used.
. Application of aloe vera gel to the affected area helps to reduce itching.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
CONSTIPATION
Constipation
. Fruits such as bael, banana, pear, guava, orange, papaya, plum and fig are effective laxatives and should be eaten regularly to gain relief from constipation.
. Eating 350 grams of grapes everyday or raisins soaked in water for 24 to 48 hours is an excellent way of overcoming constipation.
. Drinking about 100 ml of raw spinach juice, mixed with an equal quantity of water and taken twice daily, will cure the most aggravated cases of constipation within a few days.
. The juice of half a lime, mixed with half a glass of water and a teaspoon of salt is an effective remedy for constipation.
. A teaspoon of linseed swallowed with water before each meal provides both roughage and lubrication and helps stimulate the bowels.
. Consuming potatoes and tomatoes will help overcome constipation.
. Mix 1/4 teaspoon of Epsom salts into 1/2 a glass of water and drink immediately to obtain immediate relief.
. Sesame seeds provide roughage that helps curb constipation. Eat no more than 1/2 ounce daily, and drink lots of water as you take the seeds.
. Honey is a very mild laxative. Taking one tablespoon three times a day either plain or with mixed into warm water will help to reduce constipation.
. Safflower, soybean, or other vegetable oil has a lubricating action in the intestines. Take 2 to 3 tablespoons of the oil everyday till the constipation recedes.
. Fruits such as bael, banana, pear, guava, orange, papaya, plum and fig are effective laxatives and should be eaten regularly to gain relief from constipation.
. Eating 350 grams of grapes everyday or raisins soaked in water for 24 to 48 hours is an excellent way of overcoming constipation.
. Drinking about 100 ml of raw spinach juice, mixed with an equal quantity of water and taken twice daily, will cure the most aggravated cases of constipation within a few days.
. The juice of half a lime, mixed with half a glass of water and a teaspoon of salt is an effective remedy for constipation.
. A teaspoon of linseed swallowed with water before each meal provides both roughage and lubrication and helps stimulate the bowels.
. Consuming potatoes and tomatoes will help overcome constipation.
. Mix 1/4 teaspoon of Epsom salts into 1/2 a glass of water and drink immediately to obtain immediate relief.
. Sesame seeds provide roughage that helps curb constipation. Eat no more than 1/2 ounce daily, and drink lots of water as you take the seeds.
. Honey is a very mild laxative. Taking one tablespoon three times a day either plain or with mixed into warm water will help to reduce constipation.
. Safflower, soybean, or other vegetable oil has a lubricating action in the intestines. Take 2 to 3 tablespoons of the oil everyday till the constipation recedes.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Common Cold
Common Cold
. One lemon along with a teaspoon of honey should be diluted in a glass of warm water and taken once or twice a day.
. Garlic soup can be prepared by boiling three or four cloves of chopped garlic in a cup of water and should be taken once a day to reduce the severity of the cold.
. Five drops of garlic oil combined with a teaspoon of onion juice, and diluted in a cup of water, should be drunk two to three times a day.
. Ginger tea, prepared by adding a few pieces of ginger into boiled water before adding the tea leaves, is an effective remedy for colds. It must be taken twice daily.
. Half a teaspoon of fresh turmeric powder mixed in 30 ml of warm milk, and taken once or twice daily, is a useful prescription for colds. In case of a running cold, smoke from the burning turmeric should be inhaled. It will increase the discharge from the nose and provide quick relief.
. Tamarind-pepper rasam is also considered an effective home remedy for a cold in South India. Dilute 50 mg tamarind in 250 ml of water. Boil the diluted tamarind water for a few minutes with a teaspoon of hot ghee and half a teaspoon of black pepper powder and drink it three times a day.
________________________________________________________________________
For common cold and cough, prepare 'kashaya' in the foll. way:
. Boil 2 cups of water along with 2 tsp coriander seeds, 1 tsp jeera, 4pepper pods, 2 cloves, 10 tulsi leaves and a 1/2 inch of dry ginger.
. Boil till it reduces to 1 cup
. Strain and add sugar/powdered jaggery and drink 3 times in a day.
. If you have a 'ushna prakruti'*, drink only once with warm milk.
*'Ushna prakruti' are those who react to foods with a 'heat' element in them. There are 'vata prakruti' and 'pitta prakruti' as well. This can be basically considered as allergy to certain foods or quantity of foods. For example some people get boils on the skin if they eat too much of 'garam masala'. Those have to watch out and add warm milk to the 'kashaya' to compensate for the additional heat the ingredients provide.
. One lemon along with a teaspoon of honey should be diluted in a glass of warm water and taken once or twice a day.
. Garlic soup can be prepared by boiling three or four cloves of chopped garlic in a cup of water and should be taken once a day to reduce the severity of the cold.
. Five drops of garlic oil combined with a teaspoon of onion juice, and diluted in a cup of water, should be drunk two to three times a day.
. Ginger tea, prepared by adding a few pieces of ginger into boiled water before adding the tea leaves, is an effective remedy for colds. It must be taken twice daily.
. Half a teaspoon of fresh turmeric powder mixed in 30 ml of warm milk, and taken once or twice daily, is a useful prescription for colds. In case of a running cold, smoke from the burning turmeric should be inhaled. It will increase the discharge from the nose and provide quick relief.
. Tamarind-pepper rasam is also considered an effective home remedy for a cold in South India. Dilute 50 mg tamarind in 250 ml of water. Boil the diluted tamarind water for a few minutes with a teaspoon of hot ghee and half a teaspoon of black pepper powder and drink it three times a day.
________________________________________________________________________
For common cold and cough, prepare 'kashaya' in the foll. way:
. Boil 2 cups of water along with 2 tsp coriander seeds, 1 tsp jeera, 4pepper pods, 2 cloves, 10 tulsi leaves and a 1/2 inch of dry ginger.
. Boil till it reduces to 1 cup
. Strain and add sugar/powdered jaggery and drink 3 times in a day.
. If you have a 'ushna prakruti'*, drink only once with warm milk.
*'Ushna prakruti' are those who react to foods with a 'heat' element in them. There are 'vata prakruti' and 'pitta prakruti' as well. This can be basically considered as allergy to certain foods or quantity of foods. For example some people get boils on the skin if they eat too much of 'garam masala'. Those have to watch out and add warm milk to the 'kashaya' to compensate for the additional heat the ingredients provide.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
INDIGESTION
Indigestion
. Apple cider vinegar is a natural acid. Consuming one tablespoon before each meal will help calm the acids in your stomach.
Caraway or fennel seeds help with digestion and gas. Eating the seeds raw or drinking a tea prepared from the seeds on an empty stomach will provide relief from indigestion.
. Ginger is a long-time helper for stomach ailments. Drink a cup of ginger tea to relieve indigestion. Add ½ ground ginger to a cup of hot water, let stand for up to three minutes, strain, and drink.
Mint in the form of peppermint or spearmint) can soothe a troubled stomach. Sip a cup of mint tea, which can be prepared by putting one teaspoon dried mint in a cup and add boiling water. Cover the cup and let it stand for ten minutes. Strain and drink up to 3 cups of the warm tea a day. Be sure to drink it on an empty stomach.
Make your own antacid with baking soda. Mix 1/2 teaspoon baking soda in 1/2 glass water, and drink.
. If an overflow of stomach acid bothers you, try eating 1/2 cup cooked rice with your dinner. It's a complex carbohydrate that keeps the stomach busy churning, diverting excess acid. Plus, it's a bland food that tends to be easy on the stomach.
. Apple cider vinegar is a natural acid. Consuming one tablespoon before each meal will help calm the acids in your stomach.
Caraway or fennel seeds help with digestion and gas. Eating the seeds raw or drinking a tea prepared from the seeds on an empty stomach will provide relief from indigestion.
. Ginger is a long-time helper for stomach ailments. Drink a cup of ginger tea to relieve indigestion. Add ½ ground ginger to a cup of hot water, let stand for up to three minutes, strain, and drink.
Mint in the form of peppermint or spearmint) can soothe a troubled stomach. Sip a cup of mint tea, which can be prepared by putting one teaspoon dried mint in a cup and add boiling water. Cover the cup and let it stand for ten minutes. Strain and drink up to 3 cups of the warm tea a day. Be sure to drink it on an empty stomach.
Make your own antacid with baking soda. Mix 1/2 teaspoon baking soda in 1/2 glass water, and drink.
. If an overflow of stomach acid bothers you, try eating 1/2 cup cooked rice with your dinner. It's a complex carbohydrate that keeps the stomach busy churning, diverting excess acid. Plus, it's a bland food that tends to be easy on the stomach.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Yoga for heart problems
Yoga for heart problems
Here are some yoga tips for people suffering from heart ailments and to prevent heart disease
The following exercises should be done regularly in the morning, empty stomach.
Lie down, stretch your body and keep it taut. Inhale and raise your right leg slowly, keeping your arms and hands on the floor. Hold your leg at an angle of 60° to the ground for as long as you can. Breathe normally. Return the leg slowly to base position. Repeat for the left leg. Repeat 5–6 times.
Ujjayee Pranayam
Now inhale with both nostrils and contract your neck muscles to produce a continuous sobbing sound—low but uniformly pitched and without any breaks. Inhale to your lungs’ maximum capacity. You should feel a slight vibration in your chest and head areas. Now form the pranayam mudra with your right hand and close the right nostril with your right thumb and exhale slowly through the left nostril. Repeat 8–10 times.
Deep Breathing and Dhyan
Sit in sukhasana. Inhale to your lungs’ maximum capacity and then exhale fully. Repeat this simple breathing 20-30 times but without any extra force. Make sure as you breathe only your lungs expand and contract, not stomach. Repeat to yourself, internally. Sit comfortably and do dhyan.
Anulom–Vilom Pranayam
Sit straight, breathe normally and form the pranayam mudra with right hand. Close right nostril with right thumb and exhale slowly through the left nostril. Now inhale, slowly to your maximum capacity. Now close left nostril with ring and little finger and lift the thumb off the right nostril. Exhale slowly through the right nostril. Now repeat the same processes with the left nostril to complete one round.
Sit in sukhasana and close your eyes. Now smile and think that you are free from all mental tensions, all ailments. Gradually, start laughing, louder and louder. Let yourself free and laugh out as much as you can. Raise your hands as well. Slowly lower your volume, reduce your tempo and return to the calm, smiling position.
Here are some yoga tips for people suffering from heart ailments and to prevent heart disease
The following exercises should be done regularly in the morning, empty stomach.
Ek Pad Uttanasana
Lie down, stretch your body and keep it taut. Inhale and raise your right leg slowly, keeping your arms and hands on the floor. Hold your leg at an angle of 60° to the ground for as long as you can. Breathe normally. Return the leg slowly to base position. Repeat for the left leg. Repeat 5–6 times.
Ujjayee Pranayam
Now inhale with both nostrils and contract your neck muscles to produce a continuous sobbing sound—low but uniformly pitched and without any breaks. Inhale to your lungs’ maximum capacity. You should feel a slight vibration in your chest and head areas. Now form the pranayam mudra with your right hand and close the right nostril with your right thumb and exhale slowly through the left nostril. Repeat 8–10 times.
Deep Breathing and Dhyan
Sit in sukhasana. Inhale to your lungs’ maximum capacity and then exhale fully. Repeat this simple breathing 20-30 times but without any extra force. Make sure as you breathe only your lungs expand and contract, not stomach. Repeat to yourself, internally. Sit comfortably and do dhyan.
Anulom–Vilom Pranayam
Sit straight, breathe normally and form the pranayam mudra with right hand. Close right nostril with right thumb and exhale slowly through the left nostril. Now inhale, slowly to your maximum capacity. Now close left nostril with ring and little finger and lift the thumb off the right nostril. Exhale slowly through the right nostril. Now repeat the same processes with the left nostril to complete one round.
Hasyasana
Sit in sukhasana and close your eyes. Now smile and think that you are free from all mental tensions, all ailments. Gradually, start laughing, louder and louder. Let yourself free and laugh out as much as you can. Raise your hands as well. Slowly lower your volume, reduce your tempo and return to the calm, smiling position.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Asanas to reduce weight
Asanas to reduce weight
Here are some asanas that will help you not only reduce weight but also prevent weight gain
These exercises should be performed in the morning on an empty stomach or five hours after a substantial meal.
Diet tips
Cut down intake of potato, rice, fried food, chocolate, colas and high-sugar fruit.
Never eat to your stomach’s full.
Avoid drinking water during the meal. Keep a gap of at least 30 minutes. Avoid chilled water.
1. Kapalbhati Kriya
Sit down in sukhasana, eyes gently closed and your neck straight. Exhale forcefully through both nostrils, simultaneously pulling your stomach in. Repeat about 40–50 times till you are tired. Keep your body still during the kriya. Then breathe out completely and relax. Increase gradually to 80–100 times.
Benefits: Helps in fighting obesity, eliminates all toxins from the air passages, thus cleansing body and mind;
Caution: If you have heart disease, high blood pressure or hernia, exhale very slowly.
2. Urdhvahastottanasana
Stand erect, heels joined. Interlock your fingers and slowly raise your hands upwards, while inhaling. Now exhale and bend to the left at the waist. Hold the position as long as you can, breathing normally. Then inhale and bring the body back into erect position. Repeat for the right side. Repeat the asana 6–8 times.
Benefits: Bolsters the digestive system, especially stomach, liver and intestines; counters constipation; tones spine and kidney; gradually eliminates waist and tummy flab; enhances the body’s elasticity
3. Trikonasana
Stand erect, your feet about three feet apart. Inhale and raise both your hands from the sides bringing them in line with your shoulders. Exhale and bend your upper half so as to touch the right toe with left hand while the right hand points straight upwards. Then, turn your head upwards to look at the right hand. Keep both knees straight. Hold the posture as long as you can, breathing normally. Then bring the body back up and repeat for the other side. Repeat this asana 4–5 times.
Benefits: Reduces waist fat; enhances spinal flexibility
Here are some asanas that will help you not only reduce weight but also prevent weight gain
These exercises should be performed in the morning on an empty stomach or five hours after a substantial meal.
Diet tips
Cut down intake of potato, rice, fried food, chocolate, colas and high-sugar fruit.
Never eat to your stomach’s full.
Avoid drinking water during the meal. Keep a gap of at least 30 minutes. Avoid chilled water.
1. Kapalbhati Kriya
Sit down in sukhasana, eyes gently closed and your neck straight. Exhale forcefully through both nostrils, simultaneously pulling your stomach in. Repeat about 40–50 times till you are tired. Keep your body still during the kriya. Then breathe out completely and relax. Increase gradually to 80–100 times.
Benefits: Helps in fighting obesity, eliminates all toxins from the air passages, thus cleansing body and mind;
Caution: If you have heart disease, high blood pressure or hernia, exhale very slowly.
2. Urdhvahastottanasana
Stand erect, heels joined. Interlock your fingers and slowly raise your hands upwards, while inhaling. Now exhale and bend to the left at the waist. Hold the position as long as you can, breathing normally. Then inhale and bring the body back into erect position. Repeat for the right side. Repeat the asana 6–8 times.
Benefits: Bolsters the digestive system, especially stomach, liver and intestines; counters constipation; tones spine and kidney; gradually eliminates waist and tummy flab; enhances the body’s elasticity
3. Trikonasana
Stand erect, your feet about three feet apart. Inhale and raise both your hands from the sides bringing them in line with your shoulders. Exhale and bend your upper half so as to touch the right toe with left hand while the right hand points straight upwards. Then, turn your head upwards to look at the right hand. Keep both knees straight. Hold the posture as long as you can, breathing normally. Then bring the body back up and repeat for the other side. Repeat this asana 4–5 times.
Benefits: Reduces waist fat; enhances spinal flexibility
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Yoga for high blood pressure
Yoga for high blood pressure
Here are some yoga tips to help you keep your high blood pressure under control
These exercises should be done before breakfast and needs to be repeated 10 times each for better results.
Anulom–Vilom Pranayam
Sit straight, breathe normally and form the pranayam mudra with right hand. Close right nostril with right thumb and exhale slowly through the left nostril. Now inhale, slowly to your maximum capacity. Now close left nostril with ring and little finger and lift the thumb off the right nostril. Exhale slowly through the right nostril. Now repeat the same processes with the left nostril to complete one round.
Ujjayee Pranayam
Close eyes sitting in sukhasana, breathing normally. Exhale fully. Now inhale with both nostrils and contract your neck muscles to produce a continuous sobbing sound —low but uniformly pitched and without any breaks. Inhale to your lungs, maximum capacity. You should feel slight vibration in your chest and head areas. Try holding your breath as long as possible. Now form the pranayam mudra with your right hand and close the right nostril with right thumb and exhale slowly through left nostril. This completes one round
Bhramari Pranayam
Sit straight eyes closed in either sukhasana or padmasana and breathe normally. Close both your ears with your thumbs. Keep your index fingers on your forehead near the agya chakra and the remaining three fingers on your eyes. Exhale completely, then inhale slowly and fill your lungs with air. As you exhale slowly, hum like a bee. Focus your attention on this sound.
Deep Breathing and Dhyan
Sit straight forming the gyan mudra and your hands on the knees, palms upwards. Close your eyes gently and focus on your breathing. Inhale to your lungs’ maximum capacity and then exhale fully.
Shavasana
Lie on your back both legs straight and legs apart by about a foot. Keep arms on the floor, slightly away from your torso, palms facing upwards. Make sure that there is no tension in your body. Let your limbs loose. Close eyes and focus all your attention on breathing inhaling and exhaling in a rhythmic pattern.
Here are some yoga tips to help you keep your high blood pressure under control
These exercises should be done before breakfast and needs to be repeated 10 times each for better results.
Anulom–Vilom Pranayam
Sit straight, breathe normally and form the pranayam mudra with right hand. Close right nostril with right thumb and exhale slowly through the left nostril. Now inhale, slowly to your maximum capacity. Now close left nostril with ring and little finger and lift the thumb off the right nostril. Exhale slowly through the right nostril. Now repeat the same processes with the left nostril to complete one round.
Ujjayee Pranayam
Close eyes sitting in sukhasana, breathing normally. Exhale fully. Now inhale with both nostrils and contract your neck muscles to produce a continuous sobbing sound —low but uniformly pitched and without any breaks. Inhale to your lungs, maximum capacity. You should feel slight vibration in your chest and head areas. Try holding your breath as long as possible. Now form the pranayam mudra with your right hand and close the right nostril with right thumb and exhale slowly through left nostril. This completes one round
Bhramari Pranayam
Sit straight eyes closed in either sukhasana or padmasana and breathe normally. Close both your ears with your thumbs. Keep your index fingers on your forehead near the agya chakra and the remaining three fingers on your eyes. Exhale completely, then inhale slowly and fill your lungs with air. As you exhale slowly, hum like a bee. Focus your attention on this sound.
Deep Breathing and Dhyan
Sit straight forming the gyan mudra and your hands on the knees, palms upwards. Close your eyes gently and focus on your breathing. Inhale to your lungs’ maximum capacity and then exhale fully.
Shavasana
Lie on your back both legs straight and legs apart by about a foot. Keep arms on the floor, slightly away from your torso, palms facing upwards. Make sure that there is no tension in your body. Let your limbs loose. Close eyes and focus all your attention on breathing inhaling and exhaling in a rhythmic pattern.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Yoga to beat stress
Yoga to beat stress
Try out these yoga asanas to beat stress and stay fit
Kapalbhati Kriya
Sit in sukhasana or padmasana.
Keep neck straight.
Place hands on knees, eyes gently closed.
Exhale forcefully through nostrils, while pulling stomach in.
Repeat 40–50 times or till tired.
Increase gradually to 80–100 times.
Benefits: Fights obesity; eliminates toxins from air passages; combats asthma and arthritis; massages abdominal muscles and organs
Caution: Exhale slowly if you have heart disease, high blood pressure or hernia.
Tadasana
Stand erect, heels together.
Place hands on chest, fingers interlocked.
Stretch arms ahead; slowly raise them upwards while inhaling.
Raise heels, stand on toes; stretch entire body upwards.
Stay relaxed; breathe normally.
Slowly unlock fingers; bring arms down to your sides and relax.
Repeat 4 - 5 times.
Benefits: Regular practice strengthens spine, ankles, knees, thighs, abdomen and shoulders; relieves physical exhaustion. Useful for increasing height, but works best for those under 20.
Urdhvahastottanasana
Stand erect, heels joined.
Interlock fingers; slowly raise hands upwards while inhaling.
Exhale and turn left at the waist.
Hold position breathing normally.
Inhale and bring body back to erect position.
Repeat for right side.
Repeat asana 6–8 times.
Benefits: Bolsters digestive system (stomach, liver and intestines); counters constipation; tones spine and kidney; gradually eliminates waist and tummy flab; enhances body’s elasticity
Uttanpadasana
Stretch body; keep it taut.
Inhale; raise legs slowly, placing pressure on hands.
Hold legs at 60° angle from ground; breathe normally.
Feel maximum pressure on legs and abdomen.
Do not let face or neck get tense.
Return legs slowly to original position.
Repeat 3 - 4 times.
Benefits: Energises digestive organs, lung, heart, stomach, liver, spleen and intestine; counters constipation, flab around belly and low blood pressure
Try out these yoga asanas to beat stress and stay fit
Kapalbhati Kriya
Sit in sukhasana or padmasana.
Keep neck straight.
Place hands on knees, eyes gently closed.
Exhale forcefully through nostrils, while pulling stomach in.
Repeat 40–50 times or till tired.
Increase gradually to 80–100 times.
Benefits: Fights obesity; eliminates toxins from air passages; combats asthma and arthritis; massages abdominal muscles and organs
Caution: Exhale slowly if you have heart disease, high blood pressure or hernia.
Tadasana
Stand erect, heels together.
Place hands on chest, fingers interlocked.
Stretch arms ahead; slowly raise them upwards while inhaling.
Raise heels, stand on toes; stretch entire body upwards.
Stay relaxed; breathe normally.
Slowly unlock fingers; bring arms down to your sides and relax.
Repeat 4 - 5 times.
Benefits: Regular practice strengthens spine, ankles, knees, thighs, abdomen and shoulders; relieves physical exhaustion. Useful for increasing height, but works best for those under 20.
Urdhvahastottanasana
Stand erect, heels joined.
Interlock fingers; slowly raise hands upwards while inhaling.
Exhale and turn left at the waist.
Hold position breathing normally.
Inhale and bring body back to erect position.
Repeat for right side.
Repeat asana 6–8 times.
Benefits: Bolsters digestive system (stomach, liver and intestines); counters constipation; tones spine and kidney; gradually eliminates waist and tummy flab; enhances body’s elasticity
Uttanpadasana
Stretch body; keep it taut.
Inhale; raise legs slowly, placing pressure on hands.
Hold legs at 60° angle from ground; breathe normally.
Feel maximum pressure on legs and abdomen.
Do not let face or neck get tense.
Return legs slowly to original position.
Repeat 3 - 4 times.
Benefits: Energises digestive organs, lung, heart, stomach, liver, spleen and intestine; counters constipation, flab around belly and low blood pressure
Thursday, October 8, 2009
Yoga for stress management
Yoga for stress management
Here are some more yoga asanas for stress management
Kati Chakrasana
Lie on back.
Fold legs at knee, heels touching hips.
Stretch arms outwards to shoulder level.
Bend legs to right; turn face to left.
Inhale; return to starting position.
Repeat on other side.
Repeat 6–8 times.
Benefits: Good for digestive system, liver and spleen
Caution: Avoid in case of recent abdominal or hip injury.
Pawanmuktasana
Lie down on back, legs outstretched.
Bend legs at knees; bring legs towards chest.
Exhale; pull legs further towards chest with hands, keeping fingers interlocked.
Lift head; try touching knee with chin.
Bring head to normal position, unlock hands and stretch legs again.
Repeat twice.
Benefits: Excellent for constipation, diabetes, colitis, indigestion and gastric problems; helps cure asthma and uterine disorders; strengthens lungs and heart
Caution: Avoid raising head if suffering from neck ache or spondylosis.
Bhujangasana
Lie on stomach, forehead touching ground.
Place hands, palms facing down, under shoulders.
Raise elbows.
While inhaling, raise torso slowly, head and chest arching backwards.
Keep eyes closed; focus awareness on your back.
Keep toes and heels joined, breathing normally.
Return to original position while exhaling and relax.
Repeat thrice.
Benefits: Strengthens neck and spine; useful for kidney, liver, ovary, uterus, stomach, lung, heart and thyroid; counters backache
Caution: Avoid if suffering from hernia.
Mandukasana
Sit in vajrasana, clench fists keeping thumb inside and pressing with fingers
Bring fists towards stomach, fingers facing down.
Exhale, press fists into side of navel; bend forward as far as you can.
Raise head while keeping eyes closed. Breathe normally.
Inhale as you slowly return.
Repeat thrice.
Benefits: Excellent for diabetes, constipation, acidity, indigestion and urinary problems, lungs and heart
Caution: Avoid if having backache, slip disc and osteoporosis.
Here are some more yoga asanas for stress management
Kati Chakrasana
Lie on back.
Fold legs at knee, heels touching hips.
Stretch arms outwards to shoulder level.
Bend legs to right; turn face to left.
Inhale; return to starting position.
Repeat on other side.
Repeat 6–8 times.
Benefits: Good for digestive system, liver and spleen
Caution: Avoid in case of recent abdominal or hip injury.
Pawanmuktasana
Lie down on back, legs outstretched.
Bend legs at knees; bring legs towards chest.
Exhale; pull legs further towards chest with hands, keeping fingers interlocked.
Lift head; try touching knee with chin.
Bring head to normal position, unlock hands and stretch legs again.
Repeat twice.
Benefits: Excellent for constipation, diabetes, colitis, indigestion and gastric problems; helps cure asthma and uterine disorders; strengthens lungs and heart
Caution: Avoid raising head if suffering from neck ache or spondylosis.
Bhujangasana
Lie on stomach, forehead touching ground.
Place hands, palms facing down, under shoulders.
Raise elbows.
While inhaling, raise torso slowly, head and chest arching backwards.
Keep eyes closed; focus awareness on your back.
Keep toes and heels joined, breathing normally.
Return to original position while exhaling and relax.
Repeat thrice.
Benefits: Strengthens neck and spine; useful for kidney, liver, ovary, uterus, stomach, lung, heart and thyroid; counters backache
Caution: Avoid if suffering from hernia.
Mandukasana
Sit in vajrasana, clench fists keeping thumb inside and pressing with fingers
Bring fists towards stomach, fingers facing down.
Exhale, press fists into side of navel; bend forward as far as you can.
Raise head while keeping eyes closed. Breathe normally.
Inhale as you slowly return.
Repeat thrice.
Benefits: Excellent for diabetes, constipation, acidity, indigestion and urinary problems, lungs and heart
Caution: Avoid if having backache, slip disc and osteoporosis.
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Simple techniques to meditative awareness
Simple techniques to meditative awareness
Meditative awareness can be of immense help in facing reality and not moving away from it into our imagination or even escaping into ones ‘religious’ sanctuary
The more we care for our well-being the easier it will be for us to live even within the dysfunctional environments. Once we involve ourselves in the process of staying healthy in our life we can recognise the fact that whatever is happening in any moment is what we need to address it there and then – sensitively and intelligently. Meditative awareness, Osho points out, can be of immense help in facing reality and not moving away from it into our imagination and justifying ourselves, or even escaping into ones ‘religious’ sanctuary.
Meditation is one of the many of interventions now being increasingly recommended by physicians. The medical profession is now acknowledging the need for meditation for providing an effective alternative treatment. It is now being accepted that the science of the outer needs to interface with the science of the inner with a rhythmic breathing practice – where the breath comes in and the breath goes out. In Osho’s words, breath is the bridge between the body and the soul.
Osho suggests the following simple techniques which is very important and helpful to learn meditation and these are:
Whenever you find time relax your breathing for a while
Nothing else needs to be done; no need to relax the whole body. Weather seated in a train, in a plane or in a car simply relax your breathing. No one would ever come to know what you are doing and trying to do
Let the breathing of yours go on naturally; you just close your eyes and watch the breath going in and coming out
No need to concentrate while breathing otherwise any sound, person sitting next to you can become a disturbance. Meditation is not concentration – it is simply awareness
Be relaxed and watch your breathing without trying to exclude anything. The car making noise, traffic on the road, person next to you snoring – accept all
Nothing needs to be avoided; just an accepting awareness will do
Meditative awareness can be of immense help in facing reality and not moving away from it into our imagination or even escaping into ones ‘religious’ sanctuary
The more we care for our well-being the easier it will be for us to live even within the dysfunctional environments. Once we involve ourselves in the process of staying healthy in our life we can recognise the fact that whatever is happening in any moment is what we need to address it there and then – sensitively and intelligently. Meditative awareness, Osho points out, can be of immense help in facing reality and not moving away from it into our imagination and justifying ourselves, or even escaping into ones ‘religious’ sanctuary.
Meditation is one of the many of interventions now being increasingly recommended by physicians. The medical profession is now acknowledging the need for meditation for providing an effective alternative treatment. It is now being accepted that the science of the outer needs to interface with the science of the inner with a rhythmic breathing practice – where the breath comes in and the breath goes out. In Osho’s words, breath is the bridge between the body and the soul.
Osho suggests the following simple techniques which is very important and helpful to learn meditation and these are:
Whenever you find time relax your breathing for a while
Nothing else needs to be done; no need to relax the whole body. Weather seated in a train, in a plane or in a car simply relax your breathing. No one would ever come to know what you are doing and trying to do
Let the breathing of yours go on naturally; you just close your eyes and watch the breath going in and coming out
No need to concentrate while breathing otherwise any sound, person sitting next to you can become a disturbance. Meditation is not concentration – it is simply awareness
Be relaxed and watch your breathing without trying to exclude anything. The car making noise, traffic on the road, person next to you snoring – accept all
Nothing needs to be avoided; just an accepting awareness will do
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Seven Spiritual Laws of Success
Seven Spiritual Laws of Success
Dilip kumar
The meaning of success is the continued expansion of happiness and the progressive realization of worthy goals by honoring others.
Success is a life filled with appreciation and gratitude. You could say the real meaning of success is the ability to fulfill your desires effortlessly and with ease.
Yet success- all by itself, including the creation of wealth, has been considered by some to be a process that requires hard work, and it is often considered by some to be at the expense of others.
What's needed is a more spiritual approach to success and to affluence; which is the abundant flow of all good things to you.
The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success help many people live in harmony with nature and create with carefree-ness, joy, and love once they have realized it's true meaning.
1. The Law of Pure Potentiality
The source of all creation is pure consciousness... pure potentiality seeking expression from the un-manifest to the manifest. When we realize that our true self is one of pure potentiality, we align with the power that manifests everything in the universe.
2. The Law of Giving
The universe operates through dynamic exchange.... giving and receiving are different aspects of the flow of energy in the universe. And in our willingness to give that which we seek, we keep the abundance of the universe circulating in our lives.
3. The Law of Cause and Effect
Every action generates a force of energy that returns to us in like kind.... what we sow is what we reap. And when we choose actions that bring happiness and success to others, the fruit of our action is happiness and success.
4. The law of Least Effort
Nature's intelligence functions with effortless ease.... with care-freeness, harmony, and love. When we harness the forces of harmony, joy, and love, we create success and good fortune with effortless ease.
5. The Law of Intention and Desire
Inherent in every intention and desire is the mechanics for its fulfillment... intention and desire in the field of pure potentiality have infinite power. When we introduce an intention in the fertile ground of pure potentiality, we put this infinite organizing power to work for us.
6. The Law of Detachment
In detachment lies the wisdom of uncertainty..... in the wisdom of uncertainty lies the freedom from our past, from the known, which is the prison of past conditioning. in our willingness to step into the unknown, the field of all possibilities, we surrender ourselves to the creative mind that orchestrates the dance of the universe.
7 The Law of Purpose in Life
Everyone has a purpose in life... a unique gift or special talent to give to others. When we blend this unique talent with service to others, we experience the ecstasy and exultation of our own spirit, which is the ultimate goal of all goals.
Dilip kumar
The meaning of success is the continued expansion of happiness and the progressive realization of worthy goals by honoring others.
Success is a life filled with appreciation and gratitude. You could say the real meaning of success is the ability to fulfill your desires effortlessly and with ease.
Yet success- all by itself, including the creation of wealth, has been considered by some to be a process that requires hard work, and it is often considered by some to be at the expense of others.
What's needed is a more spiritual approach to success and to affluence; which is the abundant flow of all good things to you.
The Seven Spiritual Laws of Success help many people live in harmony with nature and create with carefree-ness, joy, and love once they have realized it's true meaning.
1. The Law of Pure Potentiality
The source of all creation is pure consciousness... pure potentiality seeking expression from the un-manifest to the manifest. When we realize that our true self is one of pure potentiality, we align with the power that manifests everything in the universe.
2. The Law of Giving
The universe operates through dynamic exchange.... giving and receiving are different aspects of the flow of energy in the universe. And in our willingness to give that which we seek, we keep the abundance of the universe circulating in our lives.
3. The Law of Cause and Effect
Every action generates a force of energy that returns to us in like kind.... what we sow is what we reap. And when we choose actions that bring happiness and success to others, the fruit of our action is happiness and success.
4. The law of Least Effort
Nature's intelligence functions with effortless ease.... with care-freeness, harmony, and love. When we harness the forces of harmony, joy, and love, we create success and good fortune with effortless ease.
5. The Law of Intention and Desire
Inherent in every intention and desire is the mechanics for its fulfillment... intention and desire in the field of pure potentiality have infinite power. When we introduce an intention in the fertile ground of pure potentiality, we put this infinite organizing power to work for us.
6. The Law of Detachment
In detachment lies the wisdom of uncertainty..... in the wisdom of uncertainty lies the freedom from our past, from the known, which is the prison of past conditioning. in our willingness to step into the unknown, the field of all possibilities, we surrender ourselves to the creative mind that orchestrates the dance of the universe.
7 The Law of Purpose in Life
Everyone has a purpose in life... a unique gift or special talent to give to others. When we blend this unique talent with service to others, we experience the ecstasy and exultation of our own spirit, which is the ultimate goal of all goals.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Asanas to tone your body
Asanas to tone your body
These asanas and dietary tips will help tone up those muscles, keeping you fit and healthy
Start each these asanas in this position – hands beside your thighs, palms resting flat on the ground
Drututtanpadasana
Stretch your body and keep it taut
Inhale and raise both legs slowly while putting pressure on your hands
Align your legs at 90 degrees to the floor and then slowly bring them down
However, just before touching the ground, raise both legs back up
Repeat 8–10 times or till you feel tired
Inhale while raising the legs, exhale while bringing them down
Repeat this asana 3–5 times.
Benefits: Reduces stomach flab; strengthens stomach muscles; tones digestive organs
Caution: Those suffering from backache, slip disc, sciatica, high blood pressure and heart diseases should do this asana with only one leg at a time.
Ek Pad Vrittasana
Raise your left leg and make a large circle by rotating it in a clockwise direction from the hip joint
Continue to make 8–10 circles without touching the ground at all
After rotating in clockwise direction, rotate the same leg in anticlockwise direction for 8–10 rounds
Then rest in shavasana
After completing this exercise with the left leg, repeat with the right leg. Breathe normally
Repeat this asana 3–4 times for better results
Benefits: Reduces extra weight from thighs; increase flexibility of hip joints
Caution: Those suffering from spinal problems, high blood pressure and heart problems should avoid this asana.
Dwi Pad Vrittasana
Raise both legs and make a large circle by rotating them in a clockwise direction at the hip joint
Then rotate them in anticlockwise direction
Continue to make 8–10 circles
Rest in shavasana
Diet tips
In empty stomach have a glass of lukewarm water mixed with 1 tsp lime juice and 2 tsp honey in the morning
Have 1 tsp triphla powder mixed in water before sleeping
Replace fried, spicy food with boiled green vegetables, fruits, juices, soups
Drink at least 8–10 glasses of water every day
Avoid taking an afternoon nap
These asanas and dietary tips will help tone up those muscles, keeping you fit and healthy
Start each these asanas in this position – hands beside your thighs, palms resting flat on the ground
Drututtanpadasana
Stretch your body and keep it taut
Inhale and raise both legs slowly while putting pressure on your hands
Align your legs at 90 degrees to the floor and then slowly bring them down
However, just before touching the ground, raise both legs back up
Repeat 8–10 times or till you feel tired
Inhale while raising the legs, exhale while bringing them down
Repeat this asana 3–5 times.
Benefits: Reduces stomach flab; strengthens stomach muscles; tones digestive organs
Caution: Those suffering from backache, slip disc, sciatica, high blood pressure and heart diseases should do this asana with only one leg at a time.
Ek Pad Vrittasana
Raise your left leg and make a large circle by rotating it in a clockwise direction from the hip joint
Continue to make 8–10 circles without touching the ground at all
After rotating in clockwise direction, rotate the same leg in anticlockwise direction for 8–10 rounds
Then rest in shavasana
After completing this exercise with the left leg, repeat with the right leg. Breathe normally
Repeat this asana 3–4 times for better results
Benefits: Reduces extra weight from thighs; increase flexibility of hip joints
Caution: Those suffering from spinal problems, high blood pressure and heart problems should avoid this asana.
Dwi Pad Vrittasana
Raise both legs and make a large circle by rotating them in a clockwise direction at the hip joint
Then rotate them in anticlockwise direction
Continue to make 8–10 circles
Rest in shavasana
Diet tips
In empty stomach have a glass of lukewarm water mixed with 1 tsp lime juice and 2 tsp honey in the morning
Have 1 tsp triphla powder mixed in water before sleeping
Replace fried, spicy food with boiled green vegetables, fruits, juices, soups
Drink at least 8–10 glasses of water every day
Avoid taking an afternoon nap
Sunday, October 4, 2009
How to love your body...faults and all
How to love your body...faults and all
Here's how you can learn to love your body, faults and all - along with some help for your child to avoid body hang-ups, too
I'm glad to hear that Mischa Barton is on the mend after going into hospital for psychiatric observation. It's not clear what prompted her stay but the 23-year-old former star of American TV series The O.C. has a history of personal problems.
There has been speculation about her personal demons, including body image issues, especially after close-up photos of her cellulite were splashed across newspapers and websites last year. Earlier this year she was snapped looking painfully thin after dropping from a healthy size 12 to a size 6-8 in just six months.
Image obsession
To me, it's pretty sad that modern society is so image-obsessed that someone having cellulite prompts any comment at all. Beauty product manufacturers would all have us believe that it's a shameful problem that needs to be solved at all costs - in fact, cellulite is a perfectly normal distribution of fat that can affect any woman, regardless of size or health. Fat or slim, we've all experienced insecurities about our bodies at some point. I was a chubby child - and, as a result, had to put up with nicknames like "Dumbo" at school.
However the love and security I was lucky enough to have at home meant I could understand the name-calling kids were the ones with the problem, not me. And by the time I was in my late teens, the celebrities we wanted to emulate in those days were voluptuous women such as Marilyn Monroe, Lana Turner and Liz Taylor rather than the ultra-slim Posh whose figure is the one girls want today.
Unhealthy emphasis
These days there seems to be a much more unhealthy emphasis on body image. While some argue that honing in on celebrities' imperfections shows they aren't perfect, surely it's also an indirect criticism of all our bodies -making these perceived imperfections, which most of us share, seem more important than they are.
As ever, it's the most vulnerable - especially young women- who are most susceptible to these negative messages. Too much time spent dwelling on a poor body image is bad for self-esteem and can lead to unhealthy eating habits, weight fluctuations and depression.
Here's how you can learn to love your body, faults and all - along with some help for your child to avoid body hang-ups, too.
Improve your self-image
Keep it real
Don't make unrealistic comparisons. I think the worst body role models are women such as Pamela Anderson, Jordan and Victoria Beckham, pictured right - thin figures topped off with false, oversized boobs. These are bodies that can be only achieved by surgery. Apart from professional make-up and lighting, remember models in magazines also tend to benefit from a generous amount of airbrushing.
Focus on good bits
Write down what you like about your looks - everyone has good points - and work out ways to emphasise them, such as a new hairstyle, hair colour or style of jeans. If it takes you a while to think of any, it's a sign you've spent too long dwelling on the negative aspects.
Ditch the diet
Diets don't work - I was a serial dieter for years. Sure, the weight came off but it would always creep back on again. The key to losing weight successfully is to change your eating habits in a way that's sustainable in the long term. You don't have to ban foods or go hungry - fill up on healthy stuff like fruit, veg and whole grains and cut back on the fat. Good changes include choosing lean cuts of meat, low-fat dairy products and grilled rather than deep-fried food.
Make fitness your goal
This is by far the best way to make the most of what you have and boost self-esteem. Regular exercise helps you burn fat, tone your body, give more energy and lift your mood by boosting production of feelgood chemicals called endorphins. Yes, it takes effort and commitment but seeing your fitness levels improve will give you a great sense of achievement.
Get it in perspective
Don't fall into the trap of thinking "If only I had a smaller bum, flat stomach or better boobs, life would be easier." There's no such thing as a miracle cure and it doesn't even work for celebs. Last year Kerry Katona had thousands of pounds worth of surgery, including a boob reduction and liposuction, yet she put on weight again.
Be comfortable with who you are
The people least likely to be affected by body image problems are those who put value on other, non-physical attributes. Before I had a family, much of my self-worth was tied up in being a doctor. It made me feel useful and needed. Work on being good at something, whether it's your job or a hobby like playing in a band, enjoying a sport or being a great cook.
Look outwards
A lot of personal unhappiness comes from looking inwards and dwelling on perceived shortcomings, physical or otherwise. Looking outwards helps us put things in perspective. A great way to achieve this is to do something for someone else - studies have shown that people who do regular voluntary work are less likely to be depressed than non-volunteers.
Help kids to value more than looks
(1) Keep quiet about your own hang-ups: Kids are naturally programmed to learn quickly and copy, so bemoaning your big hips or thick ankles sets a bad example which could be damaging if they've inherited the same traits.
(2) Don't criticise your child's body, even in fun: Kids may take teasing to heart, even if it's meant affectionately, especially when they reach early teens.
(3) Praise them for doing well at school, in sport or for good behaviour - showing kindness, for example. This will help them value things other than looks.
(4) Let them know you care about them for who they are as well as what they do. This will help them feel loved and secure, two vital criteria for lifelong self-esteem.
(5) Encourage a healthy but relaxed attitude to food: Set a good example by eating the food you'd like them to eat - if you don't eat your veggies, why should they? - and include treats but only in moderation. Above all, try to make mealtimes a fun experience.
Here's how you can learn to love your body, faults and all - along with some help for your child to avoid body hang-ups, too
I'm glad to hear that Mischa Barton is on the mend after going into hospital for psychiatric observation. It's not clear what prompted her stay but the 23-year-old former star of American TV series The O.C. has a history of personal problems.
There has been speculation about her personal demons, including body image issues, especially after close-up photos of her cellulite were splashed across newspapers and websites last year. Earlier this year she was snapped looking painfully thin after dropping from a healthy size 12 to a size 6-8 in just six months.
Image obsession
To me, it's pretty sad that modern society is so image-obsessed that someone having cellulite prompts any comment at all. Beauty product manufacturers would all have us believe that it's a shameful problem that needs to be solved at all costs - in fact, cellulite is a perfectly normal distribution of fat that can affect any woman, regardless of size or health. Fat or slim, we've all experienced insecurities about our bodies at some point. I was a chubby child - and, as a result, had to put up with nicknames like "Dumbo" at school.
However the love and security I was lucky enough to have at home meant I could understand the name-calling kids were the ones with the problem, not me. And by the time I was in my late teens, the celebrities we wanted to emulate in those days were voluptuous women such as Marilyn Monroe, Lana Turner and Liz Taylor rather than the ultra-slim Posh whose figure is the one girls want today.
Unhealthy emphasis
These days there seems to be a much more unhealthy emphasis on body image. While some argue that honing in on celebrities' imperfections shows they aren't perfect, surely it's also an indirect criticism of all our bodies -making these perceived imperfections, which most of us share, seem more important than they are.
As ever, it's the most vulnerable - especially young women- who are most susceptible to these negative messages. Too much time spent dwelling on a poor body image is bad for self-esteem and can lead to unhealthy eating habits, weight fluctuations and depression.
Here's how you can learn to love your body, faults and all - along with some help for your child to avoid body hang-ups, too.
Improve your self-image
Keep it real
Don't make unrealistic comparisons. I think the worst body role models are women such as Pamela Anderson, Jordan and Victoria Beckham, pictured right - thin figures topped off with false, oversized boobs. These are bodies that can be only achieved by surgery. Apart from professional make-up and lighting, remember models in magazines also tend to benefit from a generous amount of airbrushing.
Focus on good bits
Write down what you like about your looks - everyone has good points - and work out ways to emphasise them, such as a new hairstyle, hair colour or style of jeans. If it takes you a while to think of any, it's a sign you've spent too long dwelling on the negative aspects.
Ditch the diet
Diets don't work - I was a serial dieter for years. Sure, the weight came off but it would always creep back on again. The key to losing weight successfully is to change your eating habits in a way that's sustainable in the long term. You don't have to ban foods or go hungry - fill up on healthy stuff like fruit, veg and whole grains and cut back on the fat. Good changes include choosing lean cuts of meat, low-fat dairy products and grilled rather than deep-fried food.
Make fitness your goal
This is by far the best way to make the most of what you have and boost self-esteem. Regular exercise helps you burn fat, tone your body, give more energy and lift your mood by boosting production of feelgood chemicals called endorphins. Yes, it takes effort and commitment but seeing your fitness levels improve will give you a great sense of achievement.
Get it in perspective
Don't fall into the trap of thinking "If only I had a smaller bum, flat stomach or better boobs, life would be easier." There's no such thing as a miracle cure and it doesn't even work for celebs. Last year Kerry Katona had thousands of pounds worth of surgery, including a boob reduction and liposuction, yet she put on weight again.
Be comfortable with who you are
The people least likely to be affected by body image problems are those who put value on other, non-physical attributes. Before I had a family, much of my self-worth was tied up in being a doctor. It made me feel useful and needed. Work on being good at something, whether it's your job or a hobby like playing in a band, enjoying a sport or being a great cook.
Look outwards
A lot of personal unhappiness comes from looking inwards and dwelling on perceived shortcomings, physical or otherwise. Looking outwards helps us put things in perspective. A great way to achieve this is to do something for someone else - studies have shown that people who do regular voluntary work are less likely to be depressed than non-volunteers.
Help kids to value more than looks
(1) Keep quiet about your own hang-ups: Kids are naturally programmed to learn quickly and copy, so bemoaning your big hips or thick ankles sets a bad example which could be damaging if they've inherited the same traits.
(2) Don't criticise your child's body, even in fun: Kids may take teasing to heart, even if it's meant affectionately, especially when they reach early teens.
(3) Praise them for doing well at school, in sport or for good behaviour - showing kindness, for example. This will help them value things other than looks.
(4) Let them know you care about them for who they are as well as what they do. This will help them feel loved and secure, two vital criteria for lifelong self-esteem.
(5) Encourage a healthy but relaxed attitude to food: Set a good example by eating the food you'd like them to eat - if you don't eat your veggies, why should they? - and include treats but only in moderation. Above all, try to make mealtimes a fun experience.
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Breathing exercise to reduce stress
Breathing exercise to reduce stress
Five minutes a day can keep stress away
Negative emotions are powerful, difficult to control and cloud the way one views their life. With all the news of global concerns, plus the demands of career and family, it is no wonder people sometimes feel stressed and pessimistic. Breathing Out to the Ocean reduces stress fast.
The Inner Renewal Meditation takes about five minutes. Practice this daily
Start by sitting on a chair with your spine erect and your feet flat on the floor. Close your eyes.
Imagine you are in front of an ocean. What is important is your intention. Breathe slowly and relax. During exhalation, have the intention to breathe out your negativities and discomforts.
Inhale deeply, then breathe out to the ocean any discomfort, tension or pain in your body. Do it many times. Let the ocean absorb the discomforts and impurities.
Inhale deeply, then breathe out to the ocean stress or emotional pain and discomfort. (1 minute).
Inhale deeply, then breathe out the following to the ocean. Each time, let the ocean absorb them:
Negative emotions
Depression, boredom or frustrations
Fears, guilt and worries
Resentment and anxiety
Inhale deeply and breathe out to the ocean harmful thoughts against anyone or any being. Let the ocean absorb them (30 seconds).
Inhale deeply, and then breathe out any mental limitations and blockages. Let the ocean absorb them (30 seconds).
Inhale deeply, then breathe out any tendencies of excessive criticism, control and manipulation of others. Let the ocean absorb all the negative tendencies (30 seconds)
Inhale deeply, then breathe out anything that limits your freedom or obstructs your inner development. Let the ocean absorb any obstacles (30 seconds).
Relax and enjoy your new emotional and mental well-being.
Practicing the Inner Renewal Meditation is a great way to gain a more positive perspective in just a few minutes whether at work or home. In fact, when family members also practice the Inner Renewal Meditation, students find it easier to concentrate for exams, couples enjoy a more harmonious relationship and family tensions subside.
Five minutes a day can keep stress away
Negative emotions are powerful, difficult to control and cloud the way one views their life. With all the news of global concerns, plus the demands of career and family, it is no wonder people sometimes feel stressed and pessimistic. Breathing Out to the Ocean reduces stress fast.
The Inner Renewal Meditation takes about five minutes. Practice this daily
Start by sitting on a chair with your spine erect and your feet flat on the floor. Close your eyes.
Imagine you are in front of an ocean. What is important is your intention. Breathe slowly and relax. During exhalation, have the intention to breathe out your negativities and discomforts.
Inhale deeply, then breathe out to the ocean any discomfort, tension or pain in your body. Do it many times. Let the ocean absorb the discomforts and impurities.
Inhale deeply, then breathe out to the ocean stress or emotional pain and discomfort. (1 minute).
Inhale deeply, then breathe out the following to the ocean. Each time, let the ocean absorb them:
Negative emotions
Depression, boredom or frustrations
Fears, guilt and worries
Resentment and anxiety
Inhale deeply and breathe out to the ocean harmful thoughts against anyone or any being. Let the ocean absorb them (30 seconds).
Inhale deeply, and then breathe out any mental limitations and blockages. Let the ocean absorb them (30 seconds).
Inhale deeply, then breathe out any tendencies of excessive criticism, control and manipulation of others. Let the ocean absorb all the negative tendencies (30 seconds)
Inhale deeply, then breathe out anything that limits your freedom or obstructs your inner development. Let the ocean absorb any obstacles (30 seconds).
Relax and enjoy your new emotional and mental well-being.
Practicing the Inner Renewal Meditation is a great way to gain a more positive perspective in just a few minutes whether at work or home. In fact, when family members also practice the Inner Renewal Meditation, students find it easier to concentrate for exams, couples enjoy a more harmonious relationship and family tensions subside.
Friday, October 2, 2009
MEDITATION
Simple techniques to meditative awareness
Meditative awareness can be of immense help in facing reality and not moving away from it into our imagination or even escaping into ones ‘religious’ sanctuary
The more we care for our well-being the easier it will be for us to live even within the dysfunctional environments. Once we involve ourselves in the process of staying healthy in our life we can recognise the fact that whatever is happening in any moment is what we need to address it there and then – sensitively and intelligently. Meditative awareness, Osho points out, can be of immense help in facing reality and not moving away from it into our imagination and justifying ourselves, or even escaping into ones ‘religious’ sanctuary.
Meditation is one of the many of interventions now being increasingly recommended by physicians. The medical profession is now acknowledging the need for meditation for providing an effective alternative treatment. It is now being accepted that the science of the outer needs to interface with the science of the inner with a rhythmic breathing practice – where the breath comes in and the breath goes out. In Osho’s words, breath is the bridge between the body and the soul.
Osho suggests the following simple techniques which is very important and helpful to learn meditation and these are:
Whenever you find time relax your breathing for a while
Nothing else needs to be done; no need to relax the whole body. Weather seated in a train, in a plane or in a car simply relax your breathing. No one would ever come to know what you are doing and trying to do
Let the breathing of yours go on naturally; you just close your eyes and watch the breath going in and coming out
No need to concentrate while breathing otherwise any sound, person sitting next to you can become a disturbance. Meditation is not concentration – it is simply awareness
Be relaxed and watch your breathing without trying to exclude anything. The car making noise, traffic on the road, person next to you snoring – accept all
Nothing needs to be avoided; just an accepting awareness will do
Meditative awareness can be of immense help in facing reality and not moving away from it into our imagination or even escaping into ones ‘religious’ sanctuary
The more we care for our well-being the easier it will be for us to live even within the dysfunctional environments. Once we involve ourselves in the process of staying healthy in our life we can recognise the fact that whatever is happening in any moment is what we need to address it there and then – sensitively and intelligently. Meditative awareness, Osho points out, can be of immense help in facing reality and not moving away from it into our imagination and justifying ourselves, or even escaping into ones ‘religious’ sanctuary.
Meditation is one of the many of interventions now being increasingly recommended by physicians. The medical profession is now acknowledging the need for meditation for providing an effective alternative treatment. It is now being accepted that the science of the outer needs to interface with the science of the inner with a rhythmic breathing practice – where the breath comes in and the breath goes out. In Osho’s words, breath is the bridge between the body and the soul.
Osho suggests the following simple techniques which is very important and helpful to learn meditation and these are:
Whenever you find time relax your breathing for a while
Nothing else needs to be done; no need to relax the whole body. Weather seated in a train, in a plane or in a car simply relax your breathing. No one would ever come to know what you are doing and trying to do
Let the breathing of yours go on naturally; you just close your eyes and watch the breath going in and coming out
No need to concentrate while breathing otherwise any sound, person sitting next to you can become a disturbance. Meditation is not concentration – it is simply awareness
Be relaxed and watch your breathing without trying to exclude anything. The car making noise, traffic on the road, person next to you snoring – accept all
Nothing needs to be avoided; just an accepting awareness will do
Thursday, October 1, 2009
research invitation
hiiiiii I invited to doctors,researchers,scientists,,that I knows a man who has only one testicles, I want to know, how can it possible that he is alive & living happy married life.with one testicles inspite two testicles. u may mail me or call me. 91-9368713388
mail-- dil.kumar303@gmail.com
mail-- dil.kumar303@gmail.com
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