HEALTH - UPDATED

Beware of Constipation Problems

2012-01-04T23:14:00.000-08:00

Perhaps many people do not realize that among so many health problems experienced by humans, mostly initiated from an unhealthy digestive system, and constipation as a symptom is one cause of many serious diseases that we may have.

Why constipation can be a gateway for more serious health problems? This is because we naturally absorb everything that goes into the digestive system. If our digestive system is filled with waste our body will absorb it and consequently keep the heart, lungs, blood, skin, intestines and kidneys to work harder in an attempt to remove toxins from our body. Therefore we need eat healthy food, or choose the food that make us stay young and healthy.
Common symptoms understood in the natural healing of constipation are ones in which the stool becomes dry and hard in our digestive system. However, keep in mind that each person has a different metabolic pattern that their frequency of bowel movements were different too.

The experts tell us that a healthy digestive system absorbs food and nutrition normally and dispose of waste about 12 hours later. If waste of food remain in the digestive systems of more than 18 hours, toxins can accumulate in the blood stream and this can cause a variety of other health issues with other painful symptoms, too.

In principle, the natural healing maintains that the disease is an imbalance condition, so that healing is obtained if we return to balance; you can seek other infos about how balanced living is equal to healthy life. If we are constipated we need to do some things to bring our bodies back into a balanced and healthy state.

1) Drink plenty of water. Add the amount of water to your diet habits every day. These actions will help your digestive system do a lighter rehydration.

2) Get regular exercise. Active lifestyle will enhance the circulatory system and help us make a good elimination. you dont' need to think about costly fitness device. Just walk free to your office!

3) Do not forget to eat fibrous foods in addition to the daily meal.

4) Our digestive system also requires lubrication as the engine of our vehicle. Consume Essential Fatty Acids like Fish Oil and the like. Beside no side effects, you'll get a variety of benefits from it. Elimination will felt lighter and more relieved.

However it is better if we prevent the occurrence of constipation, and if it happens once, make sure to do the easy natural therapy as above and if not resolved, go to the reliable natural therapist who can suggest better ways and how to overcome your constipation problems with proper digestion prescription.

Honey to Treat Ulcers and Burns

2011-12-24T17:50:00.000-08:00

That's real, many natural substances around us are really blessing, for example honey to treat ulcers and burns, and milk to to burn fat and lose weight. According to the study, diabetics who exposed toes ulcers and amputations can be treated with honey with effective results. In the half year up to one year of treatment with honey the ulcer proven to dry and heal. Within the next year the ulcer recover fully. Honey was able to beat the streptococcus bacteria that consume body tissue. Of course, honey can be used as alternative for ordinary treatment for small wound procedure.

Honey can also be used for treatment of burns, even better than the ointment Silver Sulfaziadine. In a study it was found that patients treated with honey healed faster than patients treated with the ointment. Honey has long been known in Eastern societies. For example, it was mentioned in ayurvedic healing technique texts. Healing burns with honey more quickly and with no trace. Biochemical analysis in the case of healing of burns showed that honey is not only faster in healing but also better because of fructose in honey improve nutrition in the wound.
Why we are recommended to seek honey to treat ulcers and burns? Some of the goodness of honey as a cure ulcers and burns:
Honey serves as a natural antibiotic proven to reduce the development of harmful bacteria.
Honey has a level of acidity that makes the bacteria difficult to grow and develop.
There are hydrogen peroxide in honey; these substances are known as very good antiseptics in the medical world.
Honey is experiencing a process of osmosis that simultaneously eradicate the bacteria. Honey contains very little water and it is very thick so that the osmosis process will suck water out of bacteria in the wound and act like sponges that drain the wound area so that the bacteria difficult to grow.
With all those benefits, it would be better if we take a look at honey to treat ulcer and burns.

Breaking Bad Habits of Smoking

2011-12-21T19:23:00.000-08:00

Smoking causes cancer etc., yeah, so many damage to health and at worst you stumble upon the big danger of poor health. Many people know about the danger of smoking. But they also wonder how to quit their bad habit, not knowing about breaking bad habits of smoking. For you who want to quit smoking there are quick tips that can be used below:
- The first is the intention of the smoker, if you have not been unanimous determination to quit smoking, would be too difficult to quit smoking.
- Gradually reduce cigarette consumption. Usually you buy 2 packs a day, start slowly trying to reduce a 1 pack a day and so on. This will increase your effort in breaking bad habits of smoking.
- Train yourself to resist smoking. Suppose you want to smoke, but try to wait or hold up to 5 minutes, and increase to 10 minutes for the next day and so on. And the longer drive to smoke will disappear slowly but surely.
- Also you can replace cigarettes with other alternatives, such as candy or gum.
- You might be able to allocate your money to buy cigarettes for savings or to buy goods you need more.
- Regular exercise can also make you want to quit smoking. And reduce the staying up late, with adequate sleep. You need little effort but steady in breaking bad habits of smoking.
Perhaps the above are only few ways to stop smoking, you can also find your best ways to live healthy if possible.

Curcuma to Fight Cancer

2011-11-20T04:49:00.000-08:00

Long has been known that curcuma ('temu lawak' in Bahasa Indonesia), spice often found in Indonesian food, is beneficial for losing weight and pretty good for our memory capability. Curcuma is almost found in some healthy Asian recipes indeed. Recently researchers find that curcuma also has the ability to kill cancer cells. Curcuma was seen to be an important herb in the natural and successful treatment of several types of cancer. Researchers in Ireland have found definitively that the yellowroot is able to break down cancer cells.
They found that cancer cells began to die 24 hours after they had encountered curcuma. Then it was proven that cancer cells began to dissolve themselves after this encounter. Curcuminoids act by inhibiting some processes that contribute to the survival, proliferation, invasion and metastasis of cancer cells (Kuttan 2007). In fighting Cancer , curcuma has the same benefits of gingerol, substance extracted from ginger. Current researches also strengthen the previous ones that have proven that curcuma lessen the growth of fat cells, making your weight under control.
All the researches were laboratory studies. However, further research needs to shown if curcuma has the same good effects in human body.
Curcuma is a much used spice in the Indonesian kitchen. It has a yellowish color and a rather bitter taste. It is a native genus in Zingiberaceae family in the warm, humid environments of south and southeast Asia. We can call it an ingredient useful for making healthy jamu, as other food recipes to keep us young.

An Udderly Ridiculous Home Remedy

2011-09-23T08:01:00.000-07:00

by Doug Smith

Home Remedies - Facts or Quacks?That’s what I recently asked myself. Myths and legends often have their basis in a grain of truth. So I wondered if home remedies, alternative treatments, and folklore cures might also be based on truth. A little research provided these astounding results!Itching For A CureEdward Jenner is widely credited as the father of the smallpox vaccination. However, twenty years earlier in 1774, a quick-thinking English farmer named Benjamin Jesty saved his family from smallpox using some pretty unorthodox methods.Waiting Until The Cows Come HomeIn 1774 the highly infectious and deadly smallpox disease was epidemic. Farmer Jesty, immune to the disease because he had survived it in childhood, feared for the lives of his pregnant wife and children. Many country folk knew that people who had previously caught the milder disease of cowpox from an infected cow did not catch the normally-fatal smallpox disease.A Desperate PlanFrantic to find a solution before his family caught the disease, Jesty took his family to a nearby farm where cows were infected with cowpox. He injected his family with diseased cowpox cells from the cows. Because vacca is Latin for cow, this procedure later became known as vaccination.This Isn’t BullThe mild cowpox disease came and went in the children. His pregnant wife had complications and required the aid of the local doctor. His family did not catch the deadly smallpox disease, but word leaked out. Poor Jesty was ridiculed by his neighbors, who expected his family to turn into cows, or at least grow horns!Edward Jenner was a tireless crusader in promoting the benefits of smallpox vaccination. However, it was a desperate farmer who used his quick wit and country folklore to save his family 20 years earlier.Regardless of whom history credits, this home remedy definitely rates as a fact rather than a quack!Learn more about home remedies through the resources listed below.
Discover Doug Smith's free home remedies at http://www.superhomeremedies.com/ that show you how to use mayonnaise, duct tape, yogurt, banana peels, cola, mouthwash, peroxide, thread and other common ingredients to cure common but embarrassing conditions.

Meditation Techniques For Time Pressed Executives

2011-09-17T23:23:00.000-07:00

by Molyazzi

Meditation, quite rightly, has an image of relaxation, peace and quiet, and many may interpret this as meaning meditation can only be for those who have time to laze around half the day. For this reason, those people, such as business executives, who live a pressured life with little or no time to spare, may assume that meditation can never have a place in their lives. That is a shame, as meditation techniques can be quite flexible and quite easy to fit in to a busy day.

The benefits of meditation can be so great to somebody under pressure, that even a few minutes occasionally may bring a noticeable benefit. For a busy executive to have reached their position in life, they are likely to be determined and intelligent individuals. This can often mean that, should they perceive a benefit in an activity, then they will continue or extend that activity. It is therefore possible that an executive trying out even a brief period of meditation may soon adopt some meditation technique or other on a regular basis.

What type of meditation techniques may fit in with an executive lifestyle? Important features of meditation are being able to breathe well and consciously, relax and clear the mind, and then focus the mind. An executive with perpetual meetings and a full diary, with pressures to perform and maximise profits, may think such things cannot be fitted into their busy lives.

It is true to say that the most powerful and beneficial meditation sessions are prolonged. However, that does not mean short periods of meditation are a waste of time; far from it. An executive is probably geared up to packing as much into their day as possible and, although it may be difficult to clear a hyperactive mind, they may well learn to pack in short meditation sessions also. In so doing, they may well find that those sessions give them a boost that is far greater and more beneficial than caffeine.

So, what techniques can an executive use during their busy day? Here are a few ideas:

1. If using public transport to get to and from work, and you are able to sit down, it can be a good time to close your eyes, concentrate on correct breathing, and try to shut out the surrounding sounds. Commuting can be a very stressful experience every day of the week, so a snatched meditation session, even in far from ideal conditions, may minimize those negative effects, or even turn them on their head. In fact, it can be good practice to try to meditate in difficult conditions, as that makes ideal conditions even more beneficial later on.

The secret to these train or bus sessions is not to fall asleep, and to concentrate extra hard on maintaining the focus.

2. Do you go to a gym or health spa? Whether at lunch time or in the evening, this can be a good time to tag on a short meditation session. If you have finished your work out, you need some time to shower and relax your body a bit. Following that with a 10 minute or more period of meditation could work wonders. Most gyms or health spas will have a room you can use for a short spell of peace, so it is worth asking. A vacant massage room would serve the purpose.

3. Control your diary, and schedule in a mid morning and mid afternoon "tea or coffee" break. Only instead of tea and coffee, drink water, sit comfortably, focus on your breathing and then when totally relaxed, have a short session of meditation, focusing on something calming and not related to work. Even 10 minutes can provide a power inducing respite from the day's work, and the chances are you will not lose time, but rather gain time, as you will work more effectively.

Snatched meditation sessions spread through the day may not be the stuff of traditional meditation, but they are certainly better than none at all. Hopefully, the rejuvenated executive will perceive enough benefits to set aside time in the evenings and weekends to learn full meditation, and then be able to return to work at the top of is game every weekday morning.

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Guided Meditation - Path to Physical And Mental Well-being

2011-09-15T23:15:00.000-07:00

by Dr. Robert Puff

If stress and anxiety are taking over your life, you should get help of guided meditation as your stress management resource. Learn how to meditate and free your mind of worries in order to lead a healthy and peaceful life.

The high-speed lifestyle that all of us lead today doesn't leave us much of choice other than juggling a number of tasks. Some of your time is spent enlisting the jobs that are needed to be done, some carrying out the jobs and the rest in worrying about the ones that you weren't able to finish. All this leaves you stressed out. Meditation is a great way to shift your focus from anxiety to peace. It is a complementary medicine that cures all three, mind, body and soul of a person. Meditation can help you release stress and lead a happy and peaceful life.s

By providing a state of relaxation, it helps you remove the troubled thoughts that cloud your mind and cause stress. Moreover, it helps you focus your attention resulting in improved physical and metal well-being. Studies have found that meditation is beneficial in treating various health conditions that are worsened by stress. Some of them are high blood pressure, chronic pain, fatigue, sleeping habits, depression and others. Furthermore, it also helps you control your anger and anxiety.

When you meditate, all your tensions seem to go away. Releasing stress isn't just limited to the meditation session, it gradually eliminates the stress from your life given that you practice it on a regular basis. The true profoundness of meditation lies in the stability that you develop overtime. It helps you lead a life that remains unperturbed by anxiety and stress. Though difficulties will still come along at times, you will be able to handle them with much ease and won't be troubled by negative thoughts.
The technique of meditation requires much practicing and can be mastered overtime. For learning to meditate, however, you need the guidance of an expert. Searching online is the easiest way to find an experienced meditation practitioner. There are some experts who provide online podcast about meditation. From teaching you the basics as well as the latest findings on meditations, helping you achieve a relaxed state of mind to guided meditations for listening while you meditate, they share expert tips and help you find what works best for you to release tension.

Listening to a podcast is so much a better option for learning to meditate than reading about it. During a meditation podcast, you are guided by the soothing voice of a meditation expert to help you relax. Since your mind needs reason to be calm and peaceful, it should be preferred if someone guides you, taking your mind off the worries and helping you find inspiration to feel fresh and relaxed. You need someone who holds years of experience in meditation to free you of your stress.

Besides the online meditation podcast, several clinics also hold meditation sessions where you can join meditation gurus as well as others coping with stress. Find one such clinic in your city and take an action against the stress that continues to rise. Don't wait until you have a breakdown! Contact a clinical psychologist who specializes in meditation to help you control your stress before your body goes into a tailspin.

Dr. Robert Puff, an experienced clinical psychologist Newport Beach office of Dr. Puff has seen many people walk in and get help in managing their stress.
http://www.doctorpuff.com/

Gingerol - A Cancer Fighting Antioxidant

2011-04-22T01:17:00.000-07:00

by Tom Parker

Gingerol is a flavonol and phytonutrient (a group of chemical compounds that are found naturally in plants and have multiple health benefits but are not considered essential in humans) that can be found in fresh ginger. It has been linked with preventing cancer, strengthening the immune system and more. In this article I will be discussing gingerol in greater detail and providing you with a summary of its main functions, the best food sources, the recommended daily allowances (RDAs) and the potentially adverse effects of consuming too much or too little.

1) DISCOVERY:

The first references to gingerol date back to 4000 B.C. where it was mentioned as a cooking spice in the sacred Hindu text; "Mahabharata". It was classified as a flavonol many years later in 1938 by the Hungarian biochemist Albert Szent Gyorgyi when he discovered the flavonoids.

2) FUNCTION:

Gingerol has multiple health benefits in the human body. It acts as an anti-inflammatory (a substance that prevents inflammation within the body) and an antioxidant (a substance which protects the body's cells from damaging free radicals). In addition to this, gingerol boosts the body's immune system, protects against certain types of cancer (including breast cancer, colon cancer and ovarian cancer) and treats high blood pressure. Finally, it works to relieve migraines, nausea and the painful symptoms associated with arthritis.

3) RDA:

Gingerol is not considered essential to human health so no official recommendations have been set regarding its consumption. However, a number of sources recommend that gingerol should be avoided completely by children up to 2 years old. They also suggest that children aged between 2 and 17 years old should consume a maximum of 1.3 grams (g) per day and adults aged 18 years and older should consume no more than 4g per day.

4) FOOD SOURCES:

Gingerol is part of fresh ginger and this is the most potent source. It is often added to other foods as a cooking spice and can also be found in herbal infusions (teas) and herbal supplements.

5) OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS:

There are no reported overdose symptoms associated with consuming high levels of natural gingerol. However, excessive use of gingerol supplements can have a number of adverse effects which include confusion, dizziness, irregular heartbeats and sleepiness.

People who suffer from blood disorders, diabetes, gallbladder disorders or heart problems are more likely to experience overdose symptoms when taking gingerol supplements. People taking blood thinning medications and pregnant women are also considered to be more at risk of gingerol overdose.

6) DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS:

At the time of writing, no gingerol deficiency symptoms have been identified. Author Resource:- Tom Parker owns Free Fitness Tips - a fantastic source of free, impartial fitness advice. You can learn more about gingerol and the other flavonols by visiting his website.

A Great Method To Overcome Your Depression Using Some Techniques

2011-04-22T01:11:00.001-07:00

Kerstin Frey

Being lonely is a normal part of our everyday lives. We get sad when we fail in our exams, when we're rejected by the person we love, or when someone very close to us passes away. Depression, however, could be more fatal than just plain loneliness. It could render life-long consequences that could ruin your self-esteem, health, and well-being.

Here are some superb tips to conquer the melancholy mood and get the most bliss out of your daily activities.

1) Get Enough Light and Sunshine.

Lack of exposure to sunlight is responsible for the secretion of the hormone melatonin, which could trigger a dispirited mood and a lethargic condition.

Melatonin is only produced in the dark. It lowers the body temperature and makes you feel sluggish. If you are always cooped up in your room (with the curtains closed), it would be difficult to restrain yourself from staying in bed.

This is the reason why many people are suffering from depression much more often in winter than in the other seasons. It's because the nights are longer.

If you can't afford to get some sunshine, you can always lighten up your room with brighter lights. Have lunch outside the office. Take frequent walks instead of driving your car over short distances.

2) Get Busy. Get Inspired.

You'll be more likely to overcome any feeling of depression if you are too busy to notice it. Live a life full of inspired activities.

Do the things you love. If you're a little short on cash, you could engage in simple stuffs like taking a leisurely stroll in the park, playing sports, reading books, or engaging in any activity that you have passion for and would love to pursue.

Set a goal - a meaningful purpose in life. No matter how difficult or discouraging life can be, remain firm and have an unshakable belief that you are capable of doing anything you desire. With this kind of positive attitude, you will attain a cheerful disposition to beat the blues.

3) Take a Break.

I mean it.

Listen to soothing music. Soak in a nice warm bath. Ask one of your close friends to massage you. Take a break from your stressful workload and spend the day just goofing around. In other words, have fun.

4) Eat Right and Stay Fit.

Avoid foods with lots of sugar, caffeine, or alcohol. Sugar and caffeine may give you a brief moment of energy; but they would later bring about anxiety , tension, and internal problems. Alcohol is a depressant. Many people would drink alcohol to "forget their problems." They're just aggravating their conditions in the process.

Exercising regularly is a vital depression buster because it allows your body to produce more endorphins than usual. Endorphins are sometimes called "the happy chemicals" because of their stress-reducing and happiness-inducing properties.

5) Get a Social Life.

No man is an island. Your circle of friends are there to give you moral support. Spending time and engaging in worthwhile activities with them could give you a very satisfying feeling. Nothing feels better than having group support.

Never underestimate the power of touch. Doesn't it feel so good when someone pats you on the back and gives you words of encouragement during your most challenging times? Hug or embrace someone today. You'll never know when you have saved another life.

Get intimate. Establish close ties with your family and friends. The love and care expressed by others could tremendously boost your immune system and fend off illnesses. Best of all, you'll live a more secured and happy life.

Author Resource:- If you liked my article you can follow me via my profile here.

B-12 Injections

2011-04-06T03:27:00.001-07:00

Joseph Sterling

Injections of B-12 vitamins, often referred to as Cobalamin injections, serve many purposes. Many people take these injections for reasons ranging from anemia, stress, lack of energy, or as an aid in weight loss. Vitamin B-12 normally isn't thought of as a dieting supplement, but many believe that it actually boosts the metabolism and therefore provides an important contribution to weight loss efforts. It's also thought that B-12 has a great ability to improve one's mood and energy, which could also justify taking the shot for weight loss purposes since feeling good and wanting to be active certainly contributes to effective weight loss strategy.

B-12 is not only taken for a variety of different reasons but also in a variety of different forms. It is often taken as a pill, through intramuscular injection, or as a little tab that you place underneath the tongue until it dissolves. Perhaps the most popular method of B-12 consumption is through intramuscular injection because it is thought that taking a pill leaves the vitamin to travel through the entire digestive tract, losing some of its effectiveness along the way. With injection the vitamins are deposited directly into the blood stream and can begin to work within the body immediately. This important vitamin helps determine how much oxygen the cells of the body have, and since more oxygen means more energy it's understandable how getting a B-12 shot can really make one feel a lot better.

One of the most remarkable things about B-12 is that you get all the great benefits without any negative side effects attached; it's simply good for the overall health of the body no matter what the reasons are behind you taking it in the first place. In other words it doesn't really matter if it doesn't help you lose weight for instance because there are no side effects, you'll simply feel a little more energetic and better about yourself. In fact the fat burning qualities of B-12 has been put into question, but the important thing to remember is how the effects of B-12 can indirectly lead to weight loss even if they have no direct effect. For example B-12 is often used to fight depression since it makes people feel so good, and those who are dieting in particular need to feel good and not get discouraged or else they will ruin their diet and never end up losing any weight.

B-12 injections are particularly helpful for vegetarians and vegans who feel they may not be getting enough of this essential nutrient in their diets. It can also be a good for athletes and those engaged in heavy physical performance exercises because it naturally boosts energy levels. Ask you doctor or naturopath about vitamin B-12 injections. Author Resource:- Joe trains 5 times a week at Bally's Gym in Orange County. A long-time fitness enthusiast, he recommends that you buy ephedrine and buy ephedra from Astronutrition.

Come across Out the Latest Data About Female Genital Herpes

2011-04-06T03:24:00.000-07:00

Denabson Anknickson

Female vaginal herpes often known as HSV 2 is really a std that is due to herpes virus. This disease impacts the genital area of an infected individual plus some of the signs you will find are usually blister, painful cold sore, itchiness within the private part, head ache in addition to fever. On the other hand, this differs according to the human body.

This virus is actually separated into 2 groups specifically herpes virus 1 also known as (HSV 1) as well as herpes virus 2 (HSV 2). The HSV 2 is the specific one which has an effect on the genital of both man as well as woman.

Let us take a look at how it has an effect on a man. In a man there could be blisters, sore within the male organ or virtually any area at the penile such as the thigh. In the female counterpart there will be bruises, cold sore around the vaginal area as well as in the cervix. So when the eruption as well as painful is within the vagina the person might not be conscious unless she is aware of the signal as well as goes for a healthcare analyze. Blisters can also show up on the upper thighs and also butt of both equally female and male. The blisters frequently break open in to an agonizing sore within a couple of days and also this sore can last approximately 3 weeks.

A few other the signs of feminine vaginal herpes tend to be aches and a burning feeling during urination. The two sexes may possibly encounter a mucous discharge from the vagina or perhaps penis along with tender swollen glands in the groin area which burst open in a duration of one week.

This virus goes into an less active state following the initial outbreak. And once this happens the contaminated individual may not see any symptoms of the ailment for a long time period. The herpes simplex virus will do less problems for anyone but it can still be transported.

Nonetheless, there can still be another herpes outbreak of the condition and the re-occurrence based on the body defense system of the afflicted man or woman.
When a man or woman have been diagnosed with this particular illness, it is very important to take a few protective steps in order to avoid the further pass on of the illness.

Underneath are a few of the what you should avoid when you are diagnosed with this virus.

Avoid intercourse, people who are unable to hold themselves will find herpes relationship internet site and locate a person of his type.
Do not use any general public toilet.

Stay away from sharing bath towels because the disease is incredibly infectious.

When there's bleeding or menstruation continually utilize much more preventive technique.
Here we are going to talk about some of the approaches to steer clear of contacting a female genital herpes virus.
Never ever visit the brothel, if you're attempted be sure you wear a condom thou it's not one hundred percent assurance.
Do not share toilet with others you aren't absolutely clear on their status.
Do not use a pointy thing utilised by someone else.
Never share towel with another person.
Avoid the use of bath tub together with anyone.

In the event you follow the protective measure stated in this informative article, you'll not get issue defending yourself from this illness.
There are lots of medications claiming to remove this problem but many of them are not of any use to the majority of vaginal herpes victims. Be cautious along with do your own little study. Author Resource:- Never be confused about Herpes Medication again. Want to learn about the signs of this disease, then go to Herpes Symptom for more eye opening info.

Breakfast, Water, Exercise & Vitamins Start Your Optimum Nutritional Program Now

2011-04-01T00:23:00.000-07:00

Michiel Van Kets

Many people pay little or no attention to what it is they are putting into their bodies and in most cases they know that it is very important to take care of themselves however they spend more time caring for the food intake of others. There are a lot of people who also have no idea about how to go about improving their nutritional status let alone how to achieve an optimum nutrition.

You need to give your body nourishment, not in the form of fast foods, snacks and candy but good nourishment. You want to ensure you can get the most out of every single day and the way to start off a great day is to fill your body with a good nourishing breakfast to get you going.

Some people currently avoid breakfast altogether and if you ever start to feel you are lagging mid morning then perhaps the reason for this is your current nutrition program. It is not easy at first but making sure you eat breakfast daily can greatly change the way your body functions for you. You want to get the most from your day so starting out with a healthy breakfast can be just the ticket.

It is amazing how if you just make some minor adjustments to the way you eat how much you can improve your health. Apart from just the foods we put in we should also look to including some daily vitamins in our regiment. Getting a full range of nutrients in a one day sitting, especially in today is lifestyles is not the easiest thing to do so using some daily vitamins as a supplement to your nutritional program has great benefits.

Try to start out with the vitamins in a place that you will always go, every morning and try to remember to take them. Perhaps for the first week or so put a big note on the inside of your normal exit door to remind you to take the vitamins before you dash out to the car, subway or bus stop or whatever it is. Once you have a routine going you will find that including the vitamins daily is easy.

Exercise is an important factor in any daily routine and should not be skipped. Even if you just change the way you do things, such as walk an extra block on your way to or from work. Park your car at the far edges of the parking garage at work or at the grocery store. Small steps is all you need to get yourself going and you may find that with the improved way you are feeling you will see the benefits to you in increasing your exercise regime even further.

One of the other things you can do that is an easy step but often avoided is to drink a lot of water. Water has the benefit of squashing your appetite as well as flushing out your system the down side is of course flushing your system. Basically that means many visits to the bathroom. But if you are serious about improving your health and your nutrition then drinking as much water as you can is a great way to start the process as well.

If you can not face constant water then be wise in your choices for alternative liquids. Avoid caffeine and soft drinks or any sugary drinks for that matter. Try to drink low calorie options and to increase your water intake. Make a deal with yourself that for every alternative drink you have you will have a glass of water before and after. If you do not increase your water intake this way you will definitely reduce your sugar or caffeine intake.

Give your body the chance to work its best for you by feeding it what it needs. Make sure you drink as much water as you can so your systems have the opportunity to carry all those wonderful nutrients where they need to go and flush out the things that you do not need to retain. Try some of these simple steps towards improving your nutrition and see if you can gain the benefits - I know I have. Author Resource:- Michiel Van Kets publishes articles for Abso-bloody-Lutely, a general directory. The articles are about health and nutrition. Operating a directory requires rigorous checks to ensure quality content.

Avoid the Dinosaur Syndrome For Your Brain

2011-04-01T00:19:00.000-07:00

Suzanne Holman

Think of the anatomy of the dinosaur. They were huge creatures and had very small brains.

Ironic that what research is showing us is that as our bodies get more and more overweight, our brains get smaller.

Dr. Daniel Amen came up with the "Dinosaur Syndrome" name to paint a clear picture of the danger of being overweight.

With obesity comes more frequent diabetes, sleep apnea, and often high blood pressure. All of these health problems are associated with a higher incidence of Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia.

Dr. Amen has written a number of books, the most recent one The Amen Solution: The Brain Healthy Way to Lose Weight and Keep It Off. And he recently opened an online site that offers ongoing support to those who choose to take the steps to get their weight down to a healthy level.

Recently, I heard Dr. Amen talk about a church he has helped to create a program for weight loss. Saddleback Church is one of the largest churches in the United States. Richard Warren, author of The Purpose Driven Life, is the pastor there. They have a comprehensive website to support their congregation in getting fit. Here is a link to Dr. Amen talking about the Dinosaur Syndrome: http://www.saddleback.com/blogs/thedanielplan/avoid-the-dinosaur-syndrome/

When adults take the lead to eat consciously, children see this as an example of what is the appropriate way to eat and will follow suit. The current statistics on obesity in our youth is disturbing. Below are some statistics from the William J. Clinton Foundation, an organization that "focuses on worldwide issues that demand urgent action, solutions, and measurable results," that will open your eyes to this huge problem.

Did you know that almost 25 percent of our children do not participate in any free-time physical activity. Even worse, less than 25 percent of high school students take daily physical education classes. Healthcare costs are very high. Currently, Health Insurance companies are paying out monies for the treatmentnt of obese children that are almost three times higher than for treatment of normal children. Nearly 25 million children are overweight or obese. Today, there are five times more obese children between the ages of 6 and 11 than there was forty years ago.

Think of the heath problems that will develop for these young people if they do not change their lifestyle. Health care costs are high now but, what will they be in another 15 -20 years when these young people are going into their middle ages and older years.

It's a wonderful thing that attention is being brought to this issue at the high level of Michelle Obama. There are efforts being made all over the country.

Kids love dinosaurs but, will they love having the Dinosaur Syndrome which results in shorter, unhealthy lives? Author Resource:- For an excellent free report giving you more ways to support your memory and brain, you can go to BrainHealthforBoomers.com Suzanne Holman is an author, speaker, and consultant who supports those of you who are interested in improving your brain for now and in the future.

Health Benefits Of A Power Nap

2011-03-27T18:44:00.000-07:00

by Joseph Sterling
Being tired and sleepy is part and parcel of the busy modern life; it is often difficult to get through the day without being extremely sleepy and wanting to go take a nap. Taking a nap some time during the day is known as a cat nap or a power nap, and is highly enjoyable as well as being refreshing and rejuvenating. In fact, napping provides a boost to the body in many ways, including improved cell repair, heart function, and brain function.

You may still feel somewhat tired after your nap, but this is to be expected, the upside is that despite your tiredness you have given a boost to your brain functioning and have much improved memory capacity after taking a quick nap. Studies have also shown that taking quick naps can reduce stress and boost your overall productivity by increasing our ability to learn and ameliorate your mood. You are certainly doing yourself a big favor by napping during the day, since without a nap your brain functioning will consistently and gradually decline throughout the day.

As you probably know, sleep consists of many different stages. Taking a power nap is meant to only reach the first two stages, namely those of relaxation and light sleep. Your body spends about ten minutes to get through that first stage, and another ten or twenty minutes in the light sleep stage. It is therefore ideal to keep naps at around twenty minutes, though this figure certainly varies between individuals and is by no means set in stone. The problem though is that you do not want to oversleep, because if you slip into the further stages of sleep you will likely experience what is known as sleep inertia. This means you'll wake up with a heavy feeling which leaves you sluggish and requires considerably time to shake off.

People understandably have a difficult time napping during the day, but there are certain methods which can give you an effective routine to follow. One interesting method is to simply relax with a cup of coffee. Once you're done drinking the coffee you can close your eyes and let yourself slowly fall asleep. The caffeine takes about fifteen minutes to kick in, so you'll be naturally woken from your nap and will feel perfectly refreshed. If you still have trouble falling asleep there are many sleep-inducing methods out there, one of the more effective ones includes listening to brainwave music which helps slow your brainwaves and put you to sleep. Author Resource:- Joe trains 5 times a week at Bally's Gym in Orange County. A long-time fitness enthusiast, he recommends that you buy ephedrine and buy ephedra from Astronutrition.

Aromatherapy Important Oils - An Inheritance Properly Heralded

2011-03-27T18:40:00.000-07:00

by Ellen McElroy
The use of crucial oils, which is derived from your pure essence of a plant, isn't new. Although the time period aromatherapy was coined only inside the 1920s (by Gattefoss? in 1928), people knew of aromatherapy vital oils from your prehistoric instances. Beginning through the Chinese to Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Persian and Indian civilizations, each have extra to the science of vital oils and also to aromatherapy like an entire.

Research still continues in the area of aromatherapy important oils, with new developments being created in the subject. Aromatherapy and necessary oils are not limited to cosmetic or aromatic uses only. Quite a few on the necessary oils happen to be proved to have medicinal and therapeutic benefits also. Take lavender oil for instance. French chemist Gattefoss? would happen to be unaware of your properties of lavender oil to give immediate relief without any scar in instances of burn up, till he burnt his hand and by chance put his hand inside the jar full of the essence of lavender. Similarly, there are a significant number of important oils that have medicinal properties. The 'tulsi' plant or Indian basil, unique by means of its powerful aroma and taste, is thought of "the elixir of life" given that it's believed to bring longevity. The use of the plant's extracts is created to deal with sicknesses like headaches, inflammation, coronary heart illness, and malaria. The vital oils derived from 'karpoora tulsi' have discovered use inside the manufacture of herbal toiletry.

Necessary oils are derived from nearly each and every component in the plant. Leaves, stems, flowers, roots, and so on are distilled through steam or water to result into essential oils. Consequently, aromatherapy important oils contain the accurate essence in the plant. In its purest kind, a couple of drops of necessary oil can give the same outcomes that loads of that plant would have provided. This can be for the reason that vital oils are offered in concentrated kind.

Although referred to as oil, crucial oils in aromatherapy do not give that oily feeing. Except for several oils for instance patchouli, orange and lemongrass, most oils are clear and see-through.

Aromatherapy crucial oils must be differentiated from your perfume or fragrance oils. Whilst vital oils include the purest essence in the plant, perfume oils are produced of artificially created substances like a complete or a component of it. Fragrance oils could trigger allergic reactions or other pores and skin reaction since of the use of artificial substances; but the use of crucial oils brings upon no these allergic reaction.

Aromatherapy important oils can be employed by people today possibly by means of inhalation or by applying them on pores and skin inside a diluted type. When crucial oils are inhaled, they enter the bloodstream and lungs directly, therefore generating an on the spot impact to the ailment.

Applying aromatherapy vital oils on the physique is great for absorption. Since necessary oils are offered in a very concentrated kind, they have to be diluted making use of carrier oil. Sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil, grape seed oil, etc are blended using the crucial oil; as well as the combination is used on the body or the component that's afflicted.
1 must be incredibly cautious whilst buying an crucial oil. Although easily accessible, people are not nicely equipped to differentiate in between the superior quality and poor quality vital oil. The next checklist may be helpful to all those people who are on their way buying for aromatherapy crucial oils:

. A vendor who permits you to check the essential oil is preferred additional.
. If the bottle containing essential oils has terms including perfume oils, nature similar oils; they are not necessary oils.
. By no means obtain a bottle of necessary oil that seems aged. It may be adulterated or simply could not produce the medicinal benefits.
. A transparent glass bottle of important oils allows mild to come in, thus reducing its aroma therapeutic benefits. Keep away from purchasing essential oils which are marketed in clear glass bottles.
. Crucial oils sold in plastic bottles as well ought to be avoided as it dissolves plastic and becomes contaminated for use.
Author Resource:- For data in relation to essential oils swing byJeffrey Tipmeyster's internet site without delay!

Learning About Fad Diets

2011-03-25T23:03:00.000-07:00

Anna Lewis

High-Fat, Low-Carbohydrate Diets - Millions of Americans have joined the low-carb craze and started high-fat, low-carb diets such as the Atkins Diet, and the Zone Diet. They are made up of about 60% fat, 10% carbohydrate, and 30% protein. These diets say you can eat high amounts of fat and protein while getting very low amounts of carbohydrates in the form of vegetables. The main premise of the low-carb diet is that a diet low in carbohydrates leads to a reduction in the body's production of insulin. The end result is that fat and protein stores will be used for energy. So you stuff yourself full of unlimited amounts of meat, cheese, and butter, and only eat a small portion of carbohydrates.

People who start the diet usually lose a great amount of weight, but it's not permanent weight loss. Instead of burning fat, the lose water and precious muscle tissue. Furthermore, these diets are low in several nutrients and contain excess amounts of cholesterol and saturated fats, substances that increase the risk of heart disease. Plus, regardless of what they claim, the enormous amounts of protein put a strain on your kidneys.

Moderate Fat Diets - Next, there are the moderate fat diets. Moderate fat diets include diets like Weight Watchers, the USDA Food Guide Pyramid, and Jenny Craig. These diets are made up of about 25% fat, 60% carbohydrate, and 15% protein. They encourage the intake of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and essential fatty acids found in foods like olive oil and salmon. These diets are usually nutritionally balanced if the dieter eats a variety of foods from all categories. For example, Weight Watchers operates on a point system where foods get a number of points based on calorie, fiber, and fat content. Dieters get a specific amount of points they can use for the day. While it's not encouraged, they may choose to spend most of their points on carbohydrates instead of balancing it out. This could lead to deficiencies in nutrients such as calcium, iron, and zinc. However, if followed properly, these diets are probably the most successful for losing weight and keeping it off.

Low and Very Low-Fat Diets - Finally, you have your low-fat and very low-fat diets. Diets in this category include the Dr. Dean Ornish's Diet and the Pritkin Plan, among others. They are made up of about 13% fat, 70% carbohydrates, and 16% protein. These diets are mostly vegetarian diets and don't recommend eating a lot of meat. Like the low-carb diets, you can eat unlimited amounts of certain foods. Because you can't eat a lot of meat, these diets are deficient in zinc, vitamin B12, and essential fatty acids. Also, it is so restrictive that people find a hard time staying on it for life and end up gaining their weight back. Author Resource:- Read about the hCG Diet.

Do You Need To Try A Celebrities Eating Habits

2011-03-25T23:00:00.000-07:00

Patricia Coddington

A part of becoming a celebrity, actor, or actress is developing a body fit for any character. This might cause you to contemplate just how the stars in Hollywood workout and eat. People end up obsessed with utilizing the same exercise and diet routine of their favorite celebrity as their personal exercise routine. But, is the diet plan or workout program of your chosen celebrity right for you?

The plans of superstars range vastly from one star to the other. A few stars use entire body training programs, while some exercise a single major muscle group on a daily basis. Some celebrities work out every day for half an hour, while some go to a fitness center for hours per day. Some celebrities eat regular eating plans, limiting carbohydrates and alcohol; others eat during the day and eat many smaller meals.

One thing you won't deny that most of the celebrities that have effectively lost weight and look great have in common and that's dedication! Additionally, it helps that celebrities have money, time, and incentive to have the perfect figure. If you were provided huge amount of money to have a great body in a couple of months, you'd probably determine the way to do it - even if it would mean you needed to get up early, work out all day, or even dramatically restrict your diet plan.

So, what could you find out from a Hollywood workout? Celebrity physical exercises and diets may be able to help you get fit and slim, but they will require diligence and commitment like any other type of exercise program. For you to exercise effectively, however, you cannot just simply follow your favorite star's eating plan or training routine.

Alternatively, slowly incorporate healthy foods into your diet plan and use fat burning activities that you enjoy doing. And go from there! You don't need to imitate your chosen star to get the body that you have always dreamed of! Author Resource:- For more information on celebrities and their eating plans check out this celebrity updates site!

Djembe Drums for Music Therapy

2011-03-19T19:54:00.000-07:00

Ruth Williams

Hand-crafted African djembe drums are beautiful instruments with an attractive sound. Not only that, these drums are useful for therapy and healing. Rhythm is an essential part of the human experience, beginning with the sound of the mum's heartbeat while still in the womb. Drum therapy builds on that sensation to further encourage healing.

Music therapy with djembe drums can be used in many different institutional settings. For instance, school children of all ages enjoy a session of playing rhythm instruments. But the benefit goes beyond simple enjoyment. Making music has been found to be beneficial to a child's intellectual development as well as reducing stress levels, both facts which make drumming useful as therapy for children with disabilities like ADHD, mental retardation, or physical handicaps.

The djembe drum dates back about 700 years, where it was first crafted in the African country of Mali. The craftsman carves the drum from a single length of tree trunk and tops it with an animal skin head. The drum is designed to fit between the legs of the player and be drummed on with the hands. Musicians can learn traditional rhythms or play according to the way they feel.

Drum circles are used for many types of therapy. When used in a group, the sense of community aids the music in creating wellness. Drum circles have been found helpful for stroke victims, cancer sufferers, people trying to break addictions, and other people young and old who are facing challenges. Drums are used with Alzheimer's patients and it's believed that drumming can even help the immune system.

In a drum circle, the lead djembe drummer will usually lay down the rhythm for the circle, with other instruments following his lead. Other instruments used include rattles, shakers, bongo drums, rhythm sticks, and tambourines. Schools often purchase the instruments in classroom kits so that there will be something for everyone to play.

When choosing a djembe drum, it is important to think of the size of the individual who will be playing it. Heights of the drums range from 12 to 28 inches with the diameter of the head increasing proportionately. The drum should rest on the floor or chair when the player is seated. The head of the drum should be located 3 or 4 inches above the lap. Thus, the smallest children should be equipped with the shortest size of djembe drums.

For a great selection of fun childrens musical instruments, visit the Djembe Drum Shop where you can view and buy products online.

Living the Reiki Principles, Just for Today

2011-03-19T19:52:00.000-07:00

Diane Poppleton Brown

The Reiki Principles are fundamental to the practice and understanding of Reiki. It shouldn't be forgotten that Reiki was, and still is a powerful tool, not just for healing but also for personal and spiritual growth. Even though Reiki is non-denominational and is to be enjoyed by people of any faith, (or none), to get the most out of your Reiki experience, whether that is by giving or receiving Reiki, you should aim to live by the Reiki Principles. Reiki is a life choice, a spiritual journey in, and of, itself.

There are 5 Reiki Principles which are thought to have originated in the philosophy of the Meiji Emperor of Japan in the 1800's and adopted by Dr Mikao Usui the founding father of Reiki. There are different schools of Reiki but they are all derived from Mikao Usui's initial teachings, and have these principles (or versions that have similar meanings) at their core:

Just for today, do not anger.

Just for today, do not worry.

Just for today, honour you parents, teachers and elders.

Just for today, earn your living honestly.

Just for today, show gratitude to every living thing.

Just for today, do not anger:

We all feel angry sometimes, this principle is about understanding that anger can be transformative. It is not about suppressing anger, that would not only be destructive, but also counter productive, suppressed anger tends to surface again stronger and more powerful than before. Anger often hides other emotions like fear, so recognising what we are angry about is important, maybe we feel trapped, maybe we are afraid for ourselves or others safety, perhaps someone has hurt our feelings etc. Recognising what anger looks like in ourselves and thinking about what the anger means can be the first stage of using your anger positively. Turning our anger from an automatic negative response which we have little or no control over into a calm and deliberate constructive action takes practice and perseverance. It is not going to happen overnight but we can follow the 'just for today' rule and one day at a time change our thoughts and behaviour.

Just for today, do not worry:

Firstly, most of the things we worry about do NOT happen! Secondly, worrying doesn't help. Worrying shows a lack of trust, an assumption that things will not turn out as we had hoped or planned. This is not surprising, from an early age we are taught to compete with each other, and struggle to 'make ends meet' - this fosters a fundamental lack of trust in the world around us. Bizarrely enough, the act of worrying drains our body of the very energy it will need to deal with any trauma, incident or catastrophe. So take appropriate action to reduce your worry, then 'just for today', let it go. Worry is generally fear of repercussions of past events or fear of how things in the future might hurt us, so let go of the past, trust in the Universe to provide for the future and live 'just for today'.

Just for today, honour your parents, teachers and elders:

Kindness and respect for ourselves and others is the starting point for any spiritual journey. Accepting, embracing and learning that each person's path is theirs and theirs alone create's freedom and understanding. As children we are raised to 'look up to', listen, and respect our teachers, parents and / or elders, and sometimes as we grow we forget this simple rule. So 'just for today' listen and remember... it might be surprising what we learn.

Just for today, earn your living honestly:

The world of work is a huge part of our interaction with each other, working with integrity then, is imperative to allow us to be at peace with ourselves. Earning our living honestly can be defined as being honest with our employer and customers, 'an honest day's work for an honest day's pay' is a saying I heard often when growing up. But it can also mean being honest with ourselves about our own path. Is this the right job for me, is this where I want to be? The answers to these questions bare some reflection, but if the answer is 'yes', or even (maybe especially) if it is 'no', today, this is the job we have, so 'just for today', we will give it our all, be positive, and be as good as we can be. When it is time for a change, trust in the Universe to help us to follow our chosen path.

Just for today, show gratitude to every living thing:

In this commercial world that encourages us to want more and more, we often forget to give thanks for what we actually have. Taking the decision to change our life from being obsessed with 'please can I have' to 'thank-you for what I've got' - is a real revelation. An 'attitude of gratitude' is said by some to be essential for happiness, by others it is believed to be the path to all riches. For certain, living this one principle, just for today, goes a long way towards living them all. Life is a blessing, just for today, appreciate it, acknowledge it and say thanks for it.

The key to living the Reiki Principles is the first part of each statement: 'just for today'... today is now. Live responsibly now, yesterday has already gone and tomorrow is still to come, Dr Usui is telling us to live in the present, don't spend all your time looking back or wishing for a future that isn't here yet, embrace the present, and live life revelling in the wonderfulness of today.

If you are drawn to this article, and want to learn more about Reiki, or to book a session, visit http://www.healingtouchreiki.co.uk Welcome to your Reiki Journey.

Non-Ionizing Radiation

2011-03-17T01:23:00.000-07:00

Matthew Eddington

Radiation today has become so mainstream that many do not even realize that there are several different classifications. Non-ionizing radiation is perhaps that most widely used today due to its exceptionally useful nature. Whether you realize it or not, this form of radiation can be found in virtually every home and office around the country. Microwave radiation, infrared radiation, and radio waves are probably the best known forms of non-ionizing radiation that are commonly used today, and can be found in tasks such as telecommunications, heating food, and broadcasting. Most professionals classify non-ionizing radiation into two sources: natural (from sunlight or lightning discharges) and man-made (scientific, medical, and household items).

Simply put, non-ionizing radiation refers (obviously) to any type of electromagnetic radiation that does not have enough energy to ionize molecules. Rather, the molecules only go through the excitation phase, where the radiation is sufficient enough only to increase the motion of the molecule. Ionization refers to the process by which a molecule is converted into an ion by adding or removing electrons.

The sources of non-ionizing radiation (NIR) originate and can be divided into two main areas: optical radiations and electromagnetic fields. Optical radiation is usually found around sources of visible light, characterized by high energy UV radiation and low energy IR radiation. Common sources of UV radiation are the sun, sun lamps, UV lasers, sterilization lamps, and discharge lamps, while sources of IR radiation come from extremely hot processes such and steel and glassmaking. Electromagnetic fields are most commonly seen in the form of microwaves, and can be found in telecommunications, mobile phones, the microwave in your home, and television sets. One of the most important uses of this form used medically is the common diagnostic use of MRI machines.

One of the greatest concerns that arise from discussions of radiation is the biological effects of exposure to the different forms. Since non-ionizing radiation does not ionize but rather only excites atoms, the greatest 'risk' associated with this form is often only a raised temperature of exposed items, since excess energy is often given off as heat. This same principle is used in microwaves to heat up food, and is the greatest example of how biological items are sensitive to heat. However, the amount of radiation that it would take to cause adverse health effects is so large it hasn't ever become a great issue. In fact in many business safety manuals the dangers from non-ionizing radiation falls into the 'acceptable' range.

The most important thing to do in any situation involving radiation is to exercise caution and follow the proper protocols. Through radiation gauges and other forms of radiation detection any risks associated with non-ionizing radiation can be eliminated or severely negated. Professional advice is crucial in any situation involving radiation, so be sure to seek it if you have any questions or concerns.

Many websites provide additional information on the topic of radiation exposure and safety. One such site worth visiting is http://www.apnga.com.

Matthew Eddington independently author's articles for WebDrafter.com, Inc. (http://www.webdrafter.com) for search engine marketing. The views and opinions expressed in this article are those solely of the author, and not of any other person, company, or organization. No guarantee or warranty, express or implied, is made regarding the accuracy, fitness, or use of the content herein.

How to Protect Against Radiation Exposure

2011-03-17T01:18:00.000-07:00

Liz T. Jones

What is radiation? The kind of radiation that is used in medical procedures typically consists of x-rays, which are photons emitted from unstable atoms, and gamma rays, used in PET scans. In fact, naturally occurring photons and charged particles are all around all the time and even exist inside the human body. They come from space, from the atmosphere, the water and from the earth itself. One of the most concentrated earthbound sources is uranium. Nuclear medicine simply harnesses this natural phenomenon for use in diagnosis and treatment.

Side Effects
Women who are or may be pregnant or breastfeeding need to be especially careful. Fetuses are more susceptible to damage from radioactivity than adults. The use of an x-ray apron manufactured especially to block harmful radiation can minimize this risk. Males may also experience a lessening of their sperm production if exposed to enough radiation. This reduction could take years to return to normal. High doses could cause this reduction to be permanent. An x-ray apron can reduce this risk when used properly.

Besides fertility risks, radiation can cause cancer. Even though when properly used it can destroy cancer cells in the body, improper exposure can have the opposite effect.

Protective Lead Apron and Vest
The simplest solution in preventing undue exposure from radioactivity to patients, medical personnel and others who work with radioactive materials involves the proper use of lead aprons and vests. The vests can also come equipped with a thyroid collar to protect the thyroid glands in the neck. Since lead is an especially dense material, it can stop most charged particles, depending on the thickness used in the vests and aprons.

Other High-Risk Occupations
Besides medicine, the nuclear power industry, as well as manufacturing and development of isotopes used in nuclear medicine and research, are all areas where workers can be exposed to unacceptable doses of radiation. Uranium miners are at risk from excess exposure since uranium is the source of the radioactive isotopes used in nuclear medicine and nuclear power plants. Again, the proper wearing of an x-ray apron and/or lead vest can reduce to acceptable levels the dosage of radioactivity experienced by the wearer.

Conclusion
X-ray aprons and lead vests are essential tools for people who are exposed to radiation as an occupational hazard, such as nuclear medicine, mining and nuclear power plants in particular. The lead absorbs the harmful particles, therefore preventing harm to its wearer.

Author writes about a variety of topics. If you would like to learn more about lead apron, visit http://www.burmed.com/.

Lessons Learned on the Healthy Feeding of Your Family

2011-03-10T20:23:00.001-08:00

Kathryn Griffin

I went to the grocery store today, determined to be a label sleuth, and bring home healthier food for my family. I have to say, it was a lesson in near-futility. In my quest to limit foods with unpronounceable ingredients and/or high fructose corn syrup, corn or soy as a primary ingredient I made sure to wear my glasses so I could read the fine print. What I learned from this experience is...unless we plan to completely stop eating, there is just no way to entirely cut these things from our diet. I was forced to put a lid on my "all or nothing" mentality, and vow simply to choose items with the least amount of unpronounceable or unhealthy ingredients.

Generic vs. Name Brand?

I did learn something fairly interesting; I was shopping at our local grocery store, and, after comparing labels diligently on peanut butter and mayonnaise, found that the store brand of both items contained substantially less of the "bad" stuff than my old standbys, Jif and Hellman's. Sad, but true. Those particular generics were also significantly cheaper, but I can't give the final thumbs up until I've tasted them. I'm wondering if all the stuff we "shouldn't" be eating is what makes things taste good! Anyhow, I've shifted my expectations a bit, and am now going to simply read labels and try to make the best choices available while edging away from highly processed anything.

Fructose vs. Sucrose

I'm kicking around the idea of making a personal commitment to completely do away with high fructose corn syrup in my own diet for a whole month, but haven't quit waffling about it. I'm sure everybody's seen the commercials (sponsored by the corn industry, of course) where one person says they don't want to eat the popsicle because it contains high fructose corn syrup, and the other one claims it's identical to "real" sugar-this is not strictly the truth. Food and beverage manufacturers began the switch to HFCS in the 1970's after discovering processed fructose was not only cheaper to make, but nearly 20 times cheaper than table sugar. This switch has drastically changed the way Americans eat, and today the number one source of calories in the U.S. is high fructose corn syrup. Half the participants in a study group were given soft drinks containing HFCS showed greatly elevated levels of triglycerides and LDL (bad) cholesterol.

Health Concerns

Even though HFCS is chemically similar to table sugar (sucrose) the difference occurs in the way HFCS is processed, causing it to metabolize to fat in your body much more quickly than any other sugar. Because most HFCS is consumed in liquid form, the negative metabolic effects are magnified. High fructose corn syrup has been definitively linked to diabetes, obesity and metabolic syndrome. When you consider the large percentage of America's population who are overweight, you have to wonder if the HFCS products have something to do with that. The more vocal critics of HFCS argue it contributes to weight gain by affecting the normal appetite functions and that it may be a source of mercury, a known neurotoxin, while proponents continue to tout its safety.

The Jury is Still Out

As a further insult, the corn from which HFCS are made is most all genetically modified, which, of course, brings its own set of health concerns. Sodas are the primary source of HFCS; since I'm not much of a soda drinker, that's not a big concession for me, however lots of other products contain this potentially harmful stuff as well. (bread, cereal, breakfast bars, lunch meats, yogurt and soup, to name a few) Consider this quote from Mike Adams, and you, like me, will likely be filled with dismay.

"Diabetes is caused by the consumption of soft drinks, high fructose corn syrup, refined white sugars, refined white flour, processed grains, processed carbohydrates and other processed foods. Subsequently, if you teach people to stop eating these foods, you in essence destroy the diabetes industry. And yes, it is a hugely profitable industry, just like the cancer industry." Mike Adams,The Seven Laws of Nutrition

Kathryn Griffin is a partner in J.T. Liberty Solar and has written extensively on solar as well as environmental and sustainability issues. If you'd like further information on turning your home into a model of self-sufficiency, check out http://www.thesolarpowerinstallers.com. If you are interested in reading about how to survive the coming hard times, take a look at http://www.surviving-hard-times.com.

The Top 10 Foods to Keep You Young

2011-03-10T20:15:00.000-08:00

Lynn Maison

The basics of a perfect anti-aging diet would include lots of fresh fruits and veggies, solid amounts of whole grains and fiber, and oily fish 2 to 3 times a week. Cutting back on fat and sugar-laden foods is an important step in keeping you looking and feeling both healthy and young. Besides these basics, though, there are other foods you should be considering to help maximize your anti-aging strategies. Here are the top 10 foods to help keep you young.

Avocado

Although most people think avocado is a vegetable, it's actually a fruit loaded with monounsaturated fats, which the body needs to combat high cholesterol in the bloodstream. Avocados also are a great source of Vitamin E, which helps minimize visible signs of aging, and have tons of potassium, which helps lower blood pressure, lessens water retention, and can even help with muscle cramping.

Berries

Any sort of dark berry -- think blueberries, blackberries, or even black grapes -- are loaded with phytochemicals. These flavonoids act as heavy duty antioxidants that help the body fight off free radicals that can cause visible aging on the skin.

Cruciferous Vegetables

Cruciferous vegetables, like cabbage, kale, turnips, cauliflower, and radishes help your body vanquish toxins, and have even been shown to minimize the risk of some cancers. You do need to cook these vegetables lightly and for as short a time as possible -- long amounts of cooking or boiling will destroy the healthy enzymes they offer. Try steaming them or eating them raw in a salad for maximum impact.

Garlic

While garlic may or may not help you fight off Dracula, researchers have found that eating just a single clove of garlic daily can help you stave off both heart disease and some cancers. In fact, one study showed that post-menopausal women between 55 and 69 had a whopping 50% less chance of being diagnosed with colon cancer when they added garlic to their daily diets. Studies have also shown that garlic can help maintain or lower cholesterol levels, and can even thin blood more efficiently than a daily dose of low-strength aspirin. Great news for people with a history of heart disease or heart attacks in their family!

Ginger

Ginger has been used for centuries as a digestive aid in many cultures, and can also help relieve arthritic aches and pains. After all, it's hard to feel your anti-aging diet is really working if your bones still creak!

Nuts

Although nuts are high-calorie, high-fat foods, they also contain rich amounts of minerals -- particularly walnuts, which can help provide everything from zinc, potassium, iron, and more to your daily diet. Think of walnuts as nature's supplements, and incorporate them into your diet by sprinkling them on salads or cereals. Nuts can also act as a digestive aid and help shore up your immune system, as well as help lower high cholesterol levels.

Soy

Soy products, especially fermented soy products, are an excellent choice for menopausal or post-menopausal dietary plans, since they maintain a woman's estrogen levels and can ease hot flashes. Soy consumption has also been linked to lower rates of heart disease, Alzheimer's, and even osteoporosis and brittle bone syndrome.

Whole Meal Pasta and Rice

Complex carbs like whole grain pasta and rice help you feel full and stay active throughout the day, as well as deliver solid boosts of fiber and iron to aid your digestive system. Look to add brown rice in particular to your daily routine, since it offers a good amount of B vitamins that can boost energy.

Watermelon

This low-calorie, high-water fruit contains loads of vitamins A, B, and C -- plus the seeds offer minerals like zinc and selenium, which is a known free-radical fighter. Add chunks of watermelon to your smoothies, or mix with feta cheese for a light vegetarian salad.

Water

There's no doubt that a full 8 glasses of water daily will go a long way to maintain your body's health and vitality. Minimize your consumption of sugar and fat-laden drinks, tea, or coffee, and instead reach for low-fat or skim milk, flavored water, or fresh juice as additional liquid replacements. You can also add more H2O to your diet by eating high-water fruits and veggies like cucumbers, melons, lettuce, or tomatoes.

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Slim Down With Tasty and Healthy Asian Recipes

2011-02-19T01:27:00.000-08:00

Kristina Dizon

Losing weight is one of the hardest things to do, because of the simple fact that there are too much delicious foods around, it's impossible to avoid them. The proliferation of fast food restaurants all over the country made dieting more difficult, because most of the dishes served at the said restaurants are overflowing with fats and cholesterol - both do not only contribute to weight, but also may bring chronic diseases for people who consume too much of them.

If you are one of those people who are having struggles on shedding some pounds of or those who need to lose weight but doesn't want to starve while doing it (like with most diets), then the Asian diet might just be the one for you. Unlike other popular diets around, with the Asian diet, people will have access to a balanced and very healthful diet. Healthy Asian recipes are one of the reasons why most people living in the Asian region have lived long lives. The said diet has caught the attention of diet experts because chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, and cancer, are not as widespread in Asia, like the way it is in the United States and other western nations.

The explanation why the talked about diet is healthy and great for the body is mainly because it's low in cholesterol. Below are some of the food groups that composed the Asian diet.

Grains - Grains are good sources of dietary fiber, they lower the risk of heart disease, as well as they help reduce cholesterol. They are consumed daily through the forms of rice, corn, bread, and noodles.

Vegetables - Vegetables are also eaten in huge quantities in the traditional Asian diet. Vegetables are rich with phytonutrients that serves as the body's protection from various diseases, especially cancer. Some of the vegetables that are usually included in the diet are dark leafy vegetables, cabbages, bean sprouts, carrots, and scallions.

Fruits - Most of the meals eaten by people living in the Asian region always include fruits. They serve as desserts after meals. Mangoes, papayas, bananas, and pineapples, are some of the fruits often consumed, which are sources of fiber, as well as vitamins and minerals. Fruits are also enjoyed in the form of juices and shakes that are very popular during hot seasons.

Tea - Just like fresh fruits, teas are also part of every meal in the Asian diet, particularly in the regions of Japan, Korea, and China. The fact that teas are good for the body is something that cannot be denied, since experts have confirmed that they contain high levels of antioxidants, namely flavonoids, catechins, and polyphenols. Antioxidants are the ones that fight against free radicals that bring harm to the body in the forms of diseases. Also, drinking tea everyday, particularly green tea, can facilitate weight loss.

With the daily consumption of healthy Asian recipes, combined with Asian Fitness and Exercise, you are sure to lose weight, and also get in good physical shape. The perfect diet has been designed through the form of Asian Diet, Nutrition and Fitness. If you want to learn more about them, and get ideas for Healthy Asian Recipes, just click here.

As Healthy As You Can Be: Three Easy Steps You Can Take Now

2011-02-15T01:26:00.000-08:00

Deborah Kukal, PhD

Having a medical condition can make us feel powerless. Our body is not doing what it should, and it may be doing stuff it shouldn't. We get frustrated when no one can fix the problem. And underneath it all, it's scary.

We can't totally control our body, that's for sure. But more and more, research is discovering ways that we can have a strong and powerful impact-for better or for worse-on our own health. Even when we have very real diseases and disorders. A recent study of women with breast cancer found that those with lower levels of physical stress hormones had less pain, less fatigue and less depression.

Now you may say "But it would be stressful to have breast cancer!" And of course you'd be right. But all the women had the cancer...yet not all the women had the same levels of physical stress hormones. How we manage our stress can make a difference in the physical cascades of biochemicals washing through our bodies. And that can mean lower levels of negative stress effects like pain, depression and fatigue--even when we have real stress to deal with.

What can you do to wash away the negative stress biochemicals, keep them at a manageable level and prevent stress damage to the brain and body? Here are three easy steps that are shown over and over in research to have a positive, healing impact, reduce stress, decrease pain, improve mood, and just make life happier!

1. Join a group. Whether it's the church you love, the study group you have grown so close to, or the extended family you enjoy so often, the experience of belonging to a group is powerful. Individuals who belong to a group where they feel supported and accepted show positive physical effects, and the research shows positive impact even when we have other not-so-healthy habits!

2. Practice Meditation/Guided Imagery. The research is clear-whether you call it meditation, guided imagery or deep relaxation, it's good for your brain and your body! Don't know how? You can use guided imagery recordings to help relieve pain, and to support you in new, healthy habits. We added Alpha Harmonics to our recordings, to help you relax even more deeply and richly. Your body will have less negative impact from stress, and all the positive effects of reduced inflammation, reduced pain, and increased healing. And it's fun, too!

3. Get some hugs. Our bodies need to be touched-our skin is hungry for touch. Touch comforts, releases well-being biochemicals and can even help us live longer. Touch reduces stress biochemicals, with all the negative physical effects they bring. And hugs can comfort our caregivers as much as they comfort us!

So take the power and control that's available to you. You can help your body be as healthy as you can be now. And you will feel happier, stronger, and more in control. It's how you're made!

Discover new ways to transform your brain, renew your spirit and delight your mind and body. Dr. Kukal's guided imagery for health will support your healthy habits, nourish your healing and enhance your life.

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Deborah Kukal, PhD, ABPP is a licensed health psychologist who has been using guided imagery in a hospital setting for more than 15 years. She has engaged patients from virtually every walk of life in the successful and rewarding practice of health focused meditation.

The Life Span Today

2011-02-11T01:25:00.000-08:00

Warren Haynie

The CDC or Center for Disease Control in U.S. has revealed a new report about the total life span of a man. According to the department, it is estimated that around 1.5 years has been added in the life of today's baby than that of 10 years ago.

According to the new report delivered by this department is that an average woman has a longer life expectancy than a man which is now tremendously getting reduced. 2002 status shows that this gap is of 5.4 years which was 7.8 years in 1979.

The main top causes of death are now cured with the latest inventions in the field of medicine due to which the death rate decreased causing the life span of man to increase.

The report states that the death rates are constantly decreasing because of the fewer deaths in the recent years. The death rate is falling for the last continuous eight years and it is almost half the rate which was 60 years before.

The diseases causing deaths like cancer has been reduced to 2 percent in 2007 while heart diseases dropped by 5 percent. These two were the major death causing diseases in U.S. however there is a tremendous decrease in HIV deaths which in almost 10 years have reduced to 10 percent.

The CDC report is surely promising for the coming years to come but this report is compared with the other countries of the world, it would be surprising to find out that U.S. is far lagging behind that 30 countries.

World Health Organization in 2007 has given the report of the country securing the first position in the life expectancy is Japan with an average of 83 years of a new born baby.

Having a healthy good life is a must for all. Since America is a top most country which spends numerous money on health and still they don't even land in top 20's. What they need to focus is to make good eating habits with a quality diet to improve the life span of U.S. people.

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Increasing the Red Blood Cells in the Body

2011-02-07T01:24:00.001-08:00

Robert Shorn

The iron supplements are for increasing the red blood cells in the body. They are not really for very healthy people but generally used for restoration when a person is in poor health or is undergoing a serious medical condition. In which case the body may require the red blood cells to be increased very fast, so iron rich diet is recommended but one can also take iron supplements.

You need to see a medical practitioner to prescribe the right dosage for the iron supplements that will not cause more issues to your body.

Again one is encouraged to have a good exercise routine that will help you to improve your health. It really pays off to let your body be accustomed to regular exercises.

The body will try to resist at first but it will eventually adjust to the routine as the human body is made to conform to the new ways you subject it to. It will also be able to compensate wherever there it is experiencing any shortage. So within a very short time you will find that your breathing is quite normal.

Going to higher altitudes might mean that less oxygen is in the air, but the body will still be able to manufacture a lot more red blood cells since the body needs more of them up there. Then when you notice some tiredness, it only means that your body is trying to cope with the scanty air up on the mountain.

If you think your body needs more red blood cells, what you can do initially is to take the natural diet that is rich in iron. Then you could see a doctor to prescribe the iron supplements if the doctor thinks you need them. Iron rich foods are things like fish, other foods and beverages too. Remember fish is also a good diet for the human brain.

Your plate should always have a variety of foods, demonstrated by the different colors in the plate. It means eating only one or two types of food constantly will lead to problems for the body as they will eventually affect the correct flow of blood. These in turn will contribute to the electrical charges or PH balance in the body. This state of affairs can be corrected when you see the doctor to prescribe something to take care of the acidity in the body. Most doctors today are aware of the wonder natural drink called the wheatgrass juice.

It is the richest chlorophyll and alkalinity remedy which the body needs to increase the production of red blood cells. It also acts as a body cleanser because it removes toxic impurities. It is the latest wonder in the world of science.

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Benefit of Grounding - Barefoot

2010-12-10T22:18:00.000-08:00

Diana Garnica

The benefit of Grounding / Barefoot are amazing also? Grounding is a great tool that can dramatically increase your meditation powers and recenter your spirit and emotions. The idea is to push your extra energy into the ground and leave it there or draw energy from the ground to feel more powerful. One amazing benefit of Grounding / Barefoot also leaves you centered and focused for the rest of the day and is very beneficial in many other ways. Grounding is the way to connect to the Earth and channel any extra nervous energy away. If you do not have the time to meditate, there are other ways to connect to the Earth. For example you could walk barefoot or sit on the ground - any contact with the Earth can connect you and leave you in a much better state of mind.

The health benefits are enormous, as are the spiritual benefits, even if you "don't have a religion." When you are grounded, you have sent all of your nervous energy away (like the negative energy you picked up from media or cell phones). Your focus can become utterly clear and you can concentrate on any physical part of your anatomy to regulate how it works. You can cause your blood pressure to drops, your pulse to regulate and your neural patterns to remain calm because there is no extra adrenaline to pump through you.

Another Benefit of Grounding is that your lungs will fill more completely with deeper breaths and as a result you will get more oxygen to your brain. If you are relaxed and your blood pressure is contained, your whole body will relax and the rest of your life will fall into place. In addition, since meditation requires you to sit up with your back straight to achieve the full effect of it's healing properties, grounding while standing still can help. Any contact with the Earth is welcome, so if you'd like to walk barefoot instead of sitting on the hard Earth, you still get residual health benefits. Walking barefoot is good for weak foot arches, especially along different terrains. Not only can you be as calm as possible with grounding, but your body can begin to shape up with this activity as well.

The spiritual benefit of Grounding / Barefoot are amazing also. Using this particular activity keeps us healthy spiritually, which leads to higher self-esteem and a higher self worth. Grounding your energy is mandatory when you are about to perform heavy meditative procedures, because you cannot find your center if you are pumped full of the days thoughts and worries. In chakra exercises, it is best if you ground first and then begin to open up your chakras instead of trying to open them immediately upon entering a meditative state. For people who perform rituals or deal with Earth magic, grounding is viewed as two-way - you can push and pull as much energy as you need from the Earth, and therefore, focus completely on your task. The main idea of grounding is focus - whether you are using it for religious or health conscious purposes. Everyone understands that if you are spiritually healthy, the body will follow.

So let's do it, then. Let's go sit on the grassy knoll. Let's take our shoes off and take a walk in the forest and let the Earth do it's part in our health and well being by taking care of ourselves and bundling all of our nervous clips and stumbles into the ground. You and everyone around you will benefit from doing this activity, so why not try it?

Click here to visit the original article: Benefit of Grounding / Barefoot

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Paleo Foods - The Diet Which Will Make One Strong and Lean

2010-12-06T22:17:00.000-08:00

Mary Thomson

There are a number of people who go on different diet plans to stay in good shape and look good. However, most of these diet plans do more harm to the body than doing good and hence they end up causing more health issues. Nowadays a lot of people are following the Paleo diet which is known to show effect without harming the body.

The word Paleo is derived from the word Paleolithic and this paleo diet is also known as the ancestor diet. The reason for this is that this diet uses the recipes used during that era which is roughly about 2.5 million years ago. It is a well known fact that our ancestors were extremely healthy and strong and at the same time lean as well. This is mainly because of their diet and their way of life.

Shifting to a Paleo diet will make significant changes in the way one eats and also make a significant change in the metabolism. These foods will mainly include raw foods and hence boost the metabolism which will result in weight loss. At the same time following a regular exercise regime will help tone the muscles and help one become leaner as well as stronger.

The Paleo diet is healthy because it is packed with healthy natural ingredients and hence very healthy. Most often than not people end up snacking on high fat foods and sugary foods which end up getting stored as fat and this makes one overweight. With the paleo diet and the raw foods one get the necessary nutrients and the fresh veggies and fruits show their benefits well. But yes all this has to be coupled up with proper exercise only then will diet show proper effect. The best thing about this diet plan is that it does not devoid the body of any nutrients and provides a complete balanced nutrition.

You should know about Paleo food list if you are planning for dieting. Click here to know more about Paleo food list

Health Tourism is Alive and Well

2010-12-02T22:16:00.000-08:00

Lance Winslow

We are so lucky in the United States to have one of the best health care systems in the world. Perhaps it is because we have the best medical schools, best doctors, best pharmaceuticals, best medical diagnostic equipment, and well, you get the picture. It is truly amazing how many people come to the US to get special operations. Recently, the King of Saudi Arabia came to the US to get an operation, and think about it, he has enough money to go anywhere in the world, but he chose the US, for obvious reasons.

Health Care Tourism means being alive and well, and folks will do just about anything to stay alive. Not long ago, a citizen from India went to the UK to have an operation; unfortunately she also had a terrible infection from a superbug and brought that with her also. This is one risk of health tourism, as folks move around the planet. Luckily, that's not all that typical, and there are lots of reasons for the increase in Health Care Tourism these days.

For the most part folks do it to either get the best care that money can buy, to save money, to combine a vacation trip with an operation, or to have an operation that is not covered by their health care program or socialist nation. For whatever reason and individual chooses to take part in heath tourism - be sure it is a growing sector world-wide.

Folks in the US often go to other countries to get risky operations that no doctor in the US will do because their malpractice insurance will not cover them, or because they have pre-existing conditions that are not covered by the patient's health care plan. Many folks go to Mexico to get dental work done due to the high costs and the reality that many are not covered on their healthcare plans for dental work.

In some countries the cost to say in a hospital might be well under $100 per day, thus an operation with hospital stay is now affordable, whereas in the US it could bankrupt a family. Indeed, other nations have fewer regulations on their heath care industry, which helps keep costs low, but then again on the flip side is the reality that it can be a Buyer's Beware risky game. Therefore, there are many online groups which get together and patients can compare notes on those risks/rewards/costs and accommodations.

In the EU there are many procedures and drugs which are approved there, but they are not in the US - often folks will use this as an excuse to see Europe, get their operation and treatment and their cost savings pays for their entire trip. It's an interesting development in this Global World, but as always - do your homework, do your due-diligence, and check the credentials and reviews from others first. Caveat Emptor - please consider all this.

Lance Winslow is a retired Founder of a Nationwide Franchise Chain, and now runs the Online Think Tank. Lance Winslow believes it's hard work to write 22,000 articles; http://www.bloggingcontent.net/

Deodorant Chemicals - What You Need to Know

2010-11-16T01:36:00.000-08:00

Dr. Nathalie Beauchamp

In today's modern society, we are expected to use a wide range of body and skin care products to enhance the way we look - and to keep things like body odour to a minimum. However, many of these products contain harmful chemicals that can wreak havoc with allergies and create illness where there was none.

Here are the most common chemicals used in deodorants that you should avoid buying. Aluminum, parabens, propylene glycol, and fragrance.

Aluminum - One main concern with deodorants is related to their high levels of aluminum salts. Aluminum chloride, aluminum carbohydrate and aluminum zirconium chlorhydrate glycine complexes can make up 25 percent of the weight of the deodorant/antiperspirant, which is not healthy - especially in Western cultures where most women shave their underarms, resulting in more skin absorption of the harmful substances. Aluminum has also been linked to Alzheimer's disease.

Parabens - These are another concern related to deodorants. Parabens may be listed on labels as: methyl parabens, ethyl parabens, propyl parabens, butyl parabens, isobutyl parabens or E216. These parabens have shown particularly troubling links to cancer, present and intact in breast tumours. Studies have also shown that parabens affect the body much like estrogens do - diminishing muscle mass, allowing for extra storage of fat and prompting male gynecomastia (breast growth).

Propylene Glycol - found in thousands of cosmetic products - to help moisturize. It is also an ingredient used in anti-freeze and brake fluid, so it's no surprise that it could cause liver abnormalities and kidney damage.

Fragrance - found in many deodorants. While it may seem harmless, it should be avoided as it can cause allergies and lung problems. Unfortunately, the priority of most companies that sell beauty products is their financial bottom line, not your long-term health. Ultimately, we can't ignore the fact that all the chemicals we use on our body may increase our risk of developing cancer. Knowledge is power, but you have to act on that knowledge.

Dr. Nathalie Beauchamp, B.Sc., D.C. is co-author of the book Wellness On The Go: Take the plunge - it's Your Life! and the founder of http://www.roadmaptowellness.com an on-line wellness education program. Dr. Beauchamp is a chiropractor, a certified personal fitness trainer, a professional natural bodybuilder, a TV personality, a corporate wellness consultant and an inspirational speaker.

As the co-author of the book Wellness On The Go, I would like to invite you to claim instant access to 3 chapters of my book by visiting http://www.wellnessonthegofreechapters.com

Build a Lasting Healthy Legacy

2010-11-14T01:35:00.000-08:00

Shelli Thompson

I know that people talk all the time about how we start looking like our pets or vice-a-versa and then we start to notice and think that is indeed true. It goes so much deeper than that, it's about building a healthy legacy.

I notice that families all seem to be similar. Whether they are short, tall, big, small, families, just like their pets start to look and act like each other in undeniable ways.

It is really up to the leader of the family to take control and set a healthy example and offer healthy choices for meals and in general. This may be a parent, a grandparent or a care taker but either way they are setting up a legacy and starting a pathway to a healthy legacy or an unhealthy legacy.

So much of the time people don't have a clue on what is right and that many times is due to the media, just plain old peer pressure, or the pressure from kids wanting to keep up with what everyone has or is doing.

First and foremost is that we are setting an example for the next generation, look at your self and decide if that is the legacy you would like to leave. Is it one of health or disease?

Keeping in mind that putting more in than is going out is a recipe for weight gain. We need to look at the different ways of burning off calories throughout the day, how to fit in regular exercise and how to eat healthier.

The most important thing I see repeatedly is that so many of us need to turn off the TV. Honestly 4 hours a day of TV watching by the average American is just a waste of time. Heck, that's more than we watch in a week.

Schedule in a work out and make it a priority in your life. Exercise burns calories, raises metabolism, burns fat, reduces cholesterol, increases bone and muscle density, improves circulation and flexibility and the list goes on and on.

Take regular breaks from the desk at work or at home, go outside, stretch, walk do anything but look at a computer screen. Speaking of eyes, look away outside preferably at a distance from your computer screen when ever you get a chance.

Stop watching the evening news; they get all of their information from the paper anyways. By choosing to read the paper, we decide on what news we let in, what we need to know and the best part is that we get to leave the useless, negative information out, we save time by not sitting through endless commercials and useless stories that don't concern us.

Make the kids go outside and play. That's what we all did when the diabetes and obesity levels were much lower. So many kids sit in front of computers, video games, TV sets it is just a crying shame. Get the kids involved in sports or an outside activity.

Read the labels on the food you serve your family, know what to look for and if you are not sure, ask someone who knows. Know the good fats from the bad and how much sodium is too much.

When you go to the grocery store shop around the perimeter of the grocery area where the fresh, healthy food items are typically located, always buy organic products but look at the label first.

Eat slower and don't drink too much with your meal. Fill stomach 1/2 full with food, 1/4 with fluid (warm or room temperature) and 1/4 empty for digestion, this will allow for proper processing and assimilation of the food we eat.

Last but certainly not least, make sure and BE what you want to SEE. If you set a healthy example for young ones, then they will most likely be more health conscious. Discontinue ingesting fast foods and see how fast health improves.

http://www.healthpulse.org
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The Water and The Human's Health

2010-11-12T01:33:00.000-08:00

Stan V Johnson

There is no more mysterious and amazing substance than water. The explanation of its characteristics is hidden in its molecular and intermolecular structure.

But for us the water is firstly the most important component of the human organism, providing the connection of the outer and the inner world, the transportation of the substances between the cells and the organs. The water corresponds the main medium of the metabolic process as it is a solvent of organic and inorganic substances. The water forms a part of different systems of organic substances. For example, each gram of glycogen (animal starch) contains 1.5 ml of water, and each gram of protein contains 3 ml of water. Such structures as cell membranes, transporting particles of blood, macromolecular and supramolecular structures are formed with the help of water. In the process of the metabolism and the oxidation of the hydrogen, which forms a part of the substrates (proteins, fats and carbohydrates), endogenous "oxidation water" is generated, and its amount depends on the species of disintegrating substrates and the metabolic rate. So, during the oxidation of 100 g of fat more than 100 ml of liquid are formed, 100 g proteins - about 40 ml water, 100 g carbohydrates - 55 ml water. The rise of energy metabolism leads to the sharp growth of the amount of endogenous water.

But endogenous water is not enough for provision of water medium of metabolic processes, especially the excretion in the dissolved form of metabolic products. Particularly, the rise of the consumption of the proteins and respectively their final transformation in the urea, which is removed from the organism with the urine, leads to the inevitable growth of the loss of water in the kidneys, which demands of the heightened flux of water into the organism. When passing to the carbohydrate diet with the little quantity of common salt NaCl reduces the need of the organism in water.

The total amount of liquid in the organism of a human depends on its mass and averages 38-42 liters. Its content in different tissues varies from 10% in the adipose tissue to 83-90% in the kidneys and blood. With the years the amount of water in the organism is lessening, so as in the case of obesity. Women have less water in the organism than men.

The water in the organism forms two water spaces: intracellular (2/3 of the whole water volume) and extracellular (the whole water volume). In pathology there appears one more water space - water of the body cavities: abdominal, pleural, etc. The extracellular water space includes two sectors: 1) intravascular water sector, i.e. blood plasma, the volume of which is about 4-5 % of the body mass, and 2) interstitial or intercellular water sector, containing ¼ of all the water of the organism (15% of the body mass). It is more movable, changing the volume if there is a redundancy or deficiency in water. (Remember this peculiarity, we will return to it when talking about the mechanism of the "summer" cleaning of joints). All the aqua in the organism is renewed approximately once a month and intercellular aqua space - once a week. (And this peculiarity is also very important for determination of the duration of the "summer" cleanings).

The redundant inflow of water leads to its accumulation if few water is exuded, and this shift of the water balance is called hyperhydration. In this case aqua is mostly accumulated in the interstitial aqua sector. The significant hyperhydration declares itself in water intoxication. Water intoxication can be followed by the excitation of nerve cells and the onset of muscular spasms.

The defective inflow or the redundant excretion of water leads to the reduction of liquid spaces, mostly of the interstitial sector. This is called the dehydration. It can be followed by the hemoconcentration, the worsening of its properties and abnormalities of hemodynamics. The reduction of water in the organism to 20 % of the body mass leads to the fatal outcome.

The system of regulation of the water balance provides the main life processes: firstly, the maintenance of the constancy of the water volume in the organism, secondly, the optimal distribution of water between the aqua spaces and sectors. The activity of kidneys, other eliminative organs, drinking water consumption and thirst are referred to the factors of the maintenance of relative aqua constancy.

The significance of water as a solvent is especially important, because all the substances absorbable in the blood or the lymph are preliminarily resolved in water. The liquid transfers the nutrients to the cells and removes decay products, which are removed from the organism by the kidneys and sudoriferous glands.

Besides, the oxidation processes are progressing in the water, and the oxidative breakdown very often goes on with the addition of the water molecule.

Also the water takes part in the regulation of the body temperature: vaporizing, it cools the body and lowers the temperature. The water protects from the heat exhaustion in the hot places, under the sun and during the long passages. Finally, the water enter in the composition of the digestive juices, the fluids of the gastrointestinal tract.

The need of the human in aqua is 2-2.5 liters per day. This liquid comes to the organism from the following sources: 1) the water consumed as a drinking (900-1200 ml) and containing in the food (900-1000 ml) 2) the water that is made in the organism as a result of chemical transformation of the nutrients (300-350 ml (endogenous, oxidations).

The main organs that remove water from the organism are the kidneys, sudoriferous glands, lungs and bowels.

The kidneys remove 1-1.5 liters of aqua a day with the urine. Sudoriferous glands remove 500 - 1000 ml in usual conditions and in the hot place or at hard work the perspiration increases.

The lungs remove 350-400 ml of water by liquid vapor. This quantity is sharply increased when the breathing is getting deeper and quicker, and 800 ml of water can be removed in a day.

The bowels remove 100-150 ml of water with the stool.

The ratio of the consumed water to the removed water makes up a water balance. The water consummation should fully cover the water discharge. It is important for the normal activity of the organism or as a result of the loss of water there will be serious abnormalities of the vital functions.

Stan V Johnson
Calendar clock.

Sweat - Element of Positivity or Negativity?

2010-11-10T01:31:00.000-08:00

Wayne RUbens

What comes to your mind when you are thinking of sweat? Well for people who concerned about how fit they are always seeing sweat as a price for working their bodies. They see it as a necessity for fitness.

Sweat comes out of the body after the body has been put through amount of work. In such a condition, the body gives up some of the calories in it and some water as well.

However a lot of people have their own meaning for the sweat they encounter. For some of them it is a sign of tiredness and fatigue. But is this true of sweat? These people are only finding excuse for being in poor fitness shape. This is because the climbing of a normal stairs should not make you sweat that much, and it does not necessary mean you are sick and weak.

And for categories of people, sweat is the element of positivity or negativity. For those who are into fitness and love to exercise, sweat is a good sign and it only tell how great they are doing as far as working the body is concerned. On the other hand, sweat is a negative sign and they feel very uneasy about it.

And for a lot of these people, just this idea makes them start visiting the training centres to do a bit on their bodies. Some of these folks have not done this before but they are gingered to work out their bodies at the training centres.

But if you have not done some physical training before, you might find it difficult to know exactly how your body responds work outs but it should not be a worry at all. And instead of thinking bad about the sweat, you should be glad and happy because it a good sign and not a bad one.

Can you just imagine how strange you can look when soaked in sweat and you have no towel to clean up? That is the very reason you need to get to the exercise centre with a towel. Because working out the body will always give out sweat and a towel is all you need to cater for this sweat. If possible go with an extra towel, you probably cannot tell how much you can sweat.

Some people belief in using their sweat to measure the amount of work out you has done. For them it is always better than the strict dictates of clock. So they can tell when the work out is going well and when to end it. Perhaps it is time you discarded the ugly thought about sweat to help you get some training for your fitness and health.

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Manage Your Health and Healthcare Professionals - Don't Let Them Manage You

2010-11-08T20:59:00.000-08:00

Tamera L Nielsen

The days of blindly trusting our doctors are over. It's not because our doctors don't care - although that may be true for some - it is largely due to the bureaucratic hoops they must jump through to stay afloat.

Whatever the reason, patient advocacy - having an empathetic, educated advisor by your side - can mean the difference between regaining your good health status or withering - or worse.

Be it chronic disease, cancer, or other life-altering illnesses, you can create more joy and find healthier ways to manage your health issues so they don't manage you. Your family and friends can be objective and resourceful, but only to a certain point. It's natural for our loved ones to impart their own views instead of providing resourceful, objective options for you to consider.

Looking back on my battle with uncontrolled, undiagnosed seizures, I would have given anything to regain control of my body. As it turned out, I lost everything trying to salvage my good health.

For seven years, I endured countless medical tests and invasive, painful procedures to diagnose my seizure disorder. Pros at some of the top teaching hospitals in the country along with numerous medical professionals and facilities could not come to a conclusive diagnosis or treatment.

Averaging fifteen seizures a month - most gut-wrenchingly painful - others simply debilitating, I found myself trapped in a maze of medical mismanagement and mind-blowing drugs.

Seizure medication alters the central nervous system and brain chemistry so severely it can render a person listless - even speechless.

It did me.

Not only had I been controlled by the medical professionals 'treating' me, but a pharmacist inadvertently dispensed twice as much medication as I was prescribed.

I sat amidst nearly 50 people at a Halloween party literally immobile from an erroneous overdose of Lamictal. I recall wondering - at that party - if this was how a comatose patient felt: aware, but unable to express. I wondered if this was how my life would play out - in my thirties: A high-energy step-mom, career-driven bread winner, gym-rat-turned-paralyzed dolt.

Not a pretty picture and an awful feeling.

At least - I reasoned - that I wasn't passed out and convulsing on the floor of a ceramic-tiled shower stall, on a busy street, or in an airport - as I had before.

Some family members even chose to distance themselves from me saying it was "too scary" to be around me.

Time and again I begged my doctors to get me "off" the medications that were making me more ill and incapacitated, but they refused. They 'advised' me that I'd have more - or more severe - seizures if I went off of drugs. So, they increased the dosages, added more medications atop the ever-growing arsenal.

At one point I was on 12 different mind-altering medications. It was insane. The only drug that worked, Topamax made my already-petite frame drop 20 pounds in less than a month. To say I was angry and afraid would be an understatement.

A hideous nightmare ensued. My life, my identity - as I knew it - vanished.

No work. No gym. No basketball or painting with my step-daughter. Joyfulness dwindled as my health continued to deteriorate along with my support system. There were days when I was thrilled if I could make it out of the house - in a wheelchair.

Fast-forwarding, I ditched all the drugs, bolted from the medical professionals, moved across the country, lost everything and everyone - including my step-daughters, husband, career, and sense of self-worth - and luckily fell into the healing hands of a tai-chi yoga practitioner who taught me to control my seizures.

Choosing an alternative route such as this was a desperate choice of survival. Besides, I had nothing left to lose.

Anton Simper of Royal Oak, Michigan worked with me in three-hour increments once a week for nearly a year. I paid cash for the sessions - without an income or disability benefits.

By the end of that year, I was seizure-free and in control of my body and the bodily earthquakes, which had once ruled every aspect of my life.

Mind clear.

Free to drive without fear.

Free to live, work, exercise, and play again without medical intervention was a liberating, empowering, and joyous victory - regardless of the enormous price I paid.

Anton recognized that I had a fairly unusual condition that could be monitored with specific poses and breathing techniques, which ultimately enabled me to control my seizures.

Through all of my medical visits, research, travels, and pleadings, I found only two doctors who agreed that Postural Orthostatic Intolerance (POTS) or Neurocardiogenic Syncope - of which I have been "markedly" diagnosed - can cause autonomic nervous system seizures. They, at the time, were unable render a successful treatment.

Luckily, Anton did.

I still have seizure auras (warnings that a seizure is about to occur), but the moment I feel them, I immediately pose and breathe as Anton showed me. I control the seizure activity; it no longer controls me. I rarely have episodes of convulsing. At this post, it's been 18 months since I endured a seizure.

I will close this entry with a reiteration of my previous statement: Patient advocacy is sometimes necessary to improve -or save - a person's health, well-being, lifestyle - and perhaps more.

Through resourceful research, tenacity, and compassionate objectivity, perhaps I could help you manage your health issue so it doesn't manage you - or worse.

http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Tamera_L_Nielsen

Drug Abuse in Organizations and at a Personal Level

2010-11-07T21:13:00.000-08:00

Satish Singh Negi

Research has recently shown that there has been a high rate of drug abuse amongst the working population. The highest number of this has reportedly been amongst workers involved in transportation and moving industries, construction workers, service occupation workers, food industries and more. The alarming rates of the illicit drug abuse - including alcohol had made regular leaves, protests by the employees against the employee, thefts, low production rates etc a commonplace at the workstations.

For the above stated reasons, organizations are largely conducting employee screening for drugs or alcohol - the most common an old technique is the breath alcohol test. But it is seen that alcohol can be detected even after 2 days in the hair, thus this test is more effective when compared to the breath alcohol test which detects alcohol ranging from a few hours to twenty-four hours of its intake.

Certain industries are regulated by the DOT, that is, the United States Department of Transportation. As per The Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act of 1991, the employees in the transportation sector such as - aviation, trucking, railroads, pipelines etc requires the respective employees to undergo a drug and alcohol test.

Besides the DOT drug screen, there are other companies which are not included in the Omnibus Transportation Employee Testing Act, yet they are practicing the drug and alcohol tests due to employee productivity concerns. It has been observed by many organizations that their competent workforce has not been delivering as much as their potency is, are lethargic at work etc.

Also, these tests are not just limited to organizations, but they can also be used privately, for instance, by parents, to keep a check on their teenage child, or by a wife on her husband (by the way, men are within the bracket of one of the highest drug abusers), and more. The non dot drug test can also be taken for government employees.

Taking such tests, even though they are non DOT drug tests, on the part of the employee should be taken as a team building, motivational exercise, only to boost one's self-confidence and on the employer's part, it is indeed a very commendable and voluntary move taken by organizations to set up for the workplace a better environment.

At any level, be it a DOT drug screen, or a Non DOT drug test, one must not be reluctant to take the test. Once this fact is understood, the whole environment will change around us, only to tell us that we took the step for the better of not only ourselves, but also our folks, friends and co workers.

For more information about non dot drug test, DOT drug screen and breath alcohol test please visit: http://www.neweradrugtesting.com

The Biggest Danger of Poor Health - Going Broke

2010-11-06T20:58:00.000-07:00

Debbie Russell

You'll never guess where I got the inspiration for this article. From the back of my cereal box! Suzy Orman, one of America's leading personal finance experts says the following:

"A healthier you means a wealthier you! Taking care of your health saves you money. You will spend less on medical care, qualify for the lowest life insurance rates, and have a reduced need to retire early due to health issues. Take care of your health and your wealth will follow."

According to the Employee Benefit Research Institute, a retired couple will need over $600,000 in the bank to ensure they have enough money to cover their medical costs and that's above and beyond what Medicare covers. Part of the reason for such high expense is the fact that the cost of health care in the United States is the highest in the world. People in the country spent 15% of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on health care. The second highest is Switzerland who only spent 11% of their GDP, a whole 4 percentage points less.

But the major deciding factor of whether you'll get to enjoy any of the money you saved for retirement and whether you'll be spending it all on treating the disease that is destroying your quality of life will be how you take care of yourself now. 75% of the money spent on health care costs went towards the treatment of chronic diseases like diabetes and asthma. According to the Center for Disease Control, about 50% of all chronic disease cases were preventable or stemmed from bad health habits such as smoking.

The only way to keep yourself from going broke paying for chronic health problems that can be easily avoided is to take care of your health. This goes beyond getting regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding health destroying habits like smoking. This also means avoiding toxic foods, polluted atmospheres, and personal care products filled with dangerous chemicals.

You've probably heard so much about the toxins contained in the mainstream food supply and the dangers of using most of the personal care products found on store shelves that you probably think it is all one big scare tactic. But the truth is that even something as innocuous as bottled water can be hazardous to your health.

First, it is a myth that bottled water is purer than what you can get out of the tap. Some bottled water has been shown to be more polluted than local tap water and other bottled waters are actually filtered tap water in disguise. Secondly, the plastic bottles can leach bisphenol-A (BPA) into the water which the majority of experts believe is linked to heart disease, obesity, hormone disruption, and other health issues.

There are two things you can do to protect your good health and improve any existing health challenges you may be struggling with. You should phase the toxic products out of your life and replace them with greener, healthier options. This includes switching over to organic foods and using personal care products made from natural ingredients the support health and wellness.

Switching over to green products offers many benefits including:

* Healthier products that work with the body's functions instead of throwing them out of whack and causing bigger health problems to develop.
* Some health problems, such as allergies, are the result of being exposed to toxic products that cause inflammation in the body.
* Reduce your susceptibility some degenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer's
* Increase energy, productivity, and vitality
* Improve the environment for everyone

Finding green products is as easy as ever. In the past you had to find specialty stores that often only offered a small selection of products. Today, however, natural and organic products are everywhere. To save time and money, the best place to get these products is to shop online and I found a great place where you have access to over 22,000 green products all in one place. My online mall works with hundreds of green retailers to bring you a wide selection of products and you'll earn cash back on your purchases.

Not only will you improve the health of your body but you'll make your wallet feel better also. Good health and increased wealth are the best gifts you can give yourself.

Debbie Russell is a marketing veteran who's sudden job loss made her appreciate that she had developed a profitable Plan B for just such an occasion. If you believe life favors the prepared, go to her website http://www.debbierussell.me for tips and tools to help you create a Plan B that finances your dreams. To find out how you can generate a full time income with the Ultimate Savings Machine, visit my online business tour.

Eight Ways to Stay Healthy During Flu and Cold Season

2010-11-05T21:12:00.000-07:00

Katie Evan

1. Get a flu shot. It's the #1 way to avoid the flu. It is impossible for you to catch the flu from a flu shot.

2. If you feel the flu coming on-achy, feverish-as soon as possible, take oscillococcinum. I know, it's an impossible name. It's a naturopathic remedy available in most drug stores. It really staves off full blown flu.

3. If you feel the flu or a cold coming on, take Emergen C. It's 1000 mg. of vitamin C and other vitamins in a dissolvable form. Drink it in a small glass of water and repeat every hour. You'll know you've had enough when you start to get a little diarrhea. Cut back on your intake.

4. If you go travel, take Air Borne at the first sign of a cold or the flu. It may help minimize the symptoms.

5. Wash your hands as soon as you return home-every time.

6. If you have kids, use paper towels in the bathroom for hands. If that's too expensive, allocate a specific towel to each child. Damp towels are a primary way cold and flu germs are transmitted.

7. If you feel the flu coming on, immediately go home from work, drink at least 2 glasses of water and all the stuff listed above and GO TO BED. You will take at least 2 days off your illness if you take care of yourself at the beginning. You will also remove yourself from the workplace and not give it to your co-workers, for which they and your boss will be very grateful.

8. Above all, listen to your body and don't be a "tough guy/gal." You're not impressing anyone by being stupid!

I would like to invite you to continue on your path to better health by receiving "Your Lighten Me Up Tip of the Day". Claim your FREE subscription by simply going to http://livinglitenow.com/intro.htm

Katie Evans is the Founder of the Living Lite Hypnosis Centers: http://www.livingliteathome.com

What Is Health and Wellness?

2010-11-04T20:57:00.000-07:00

Thomas R. Melton

So much emphasis is placed on health and wellness these days it seems every where you turn you see or hear something about one or both of them. Have you ever considered what the terms health and wellness mean? Health, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity (abnormal condition). This is only one attempt to define health. There are as many definitions of health as there are people because most people seem to perceive health in terms of their own ability to function according to their own perception of what is normal. Now that we know what health means, lets take a look at the definition of wellness.

Wellness can be defined as a state in which an individual of a given sex and at a given stage of growth and development is capable of meeting the minimum physical, physiological, and social requirements for appropriate functioning in the given sex category and at the given growth and developmental level. Another definition of wellness is a dynamic state of health in which an individual progresses toward a higher level of functioning, achieving an optimum balance between internal and external environments.

From the definitions of health and wellness, it is easy to see why a health history is requested when you see your physician or other health care professionals. Information requested may include your health history, family health history, diet, and exercise. Depending on the health care professional you are seeing, other information may be requested. Why is such a comprehensive history important to your physician or other health care professional? History provided by you gives your doctor or health care professional the most important tool to diagnose your condition and provide you with proper treatment. In other words, when you provide an honest and complete health history, family history, medical history, diet and exercise information you provide your doctor or health care professional an insight regarding your health and wellness. Societal values also influence how an individual feels about maintaining a certain level of health. To summarize, health means many things. It is a sense of complete well-being and the absence of disease. Each person's health falls somewhere on a line between the extremes of good health and illness. For the individual, the existence or absence of health is usually not determined solely by laboratory test or medical pronouncements but also by the expectations created within his/her particular society.

"If you have your health, you have everything," people say to one another and generally they understand what is meant.

Thomas R. Melton

I have diabetes type 2, and a background in medicine and mental health. I am currently a substitute teacher during the school year, and work on my blog during the full year to try to improve and add to it.

http://www.successfullivingwithdiabetes.com
http://www.tom-melton.com

A Brief Look at the Fine Print of the Healthy Lifestyle of People on the Go

2010-11-03T21:08:00.000-07:00

Marisa Singhnarinaath

Having a healthy lifestyle is a major concern of most people, especially people on the go. The demands of modern living can extract a heavy toll on our health and well-being. It seems that we have a lot of things to do with very limited time. Some people resort to cutbacks and walk around certain things in order to catch their breath and enjoy the much needed break from their stressful daily routines.

The problem with people leading a hectic daily lifestyle is that too many priorities and commitments tend to load up their schedules that they are left with so little time to attend to their health concerns. While we all agree that we need to adopt a healthy lifestyle, if we don't take action we may be looking at serious health issues and problems sooner than we expect.

So, how can you lead a healthy lifestyle? What must be done if we want to achieve a healthy balance of our daily activities? These are serious issues that we need to attend to and if seriously considered, will lead you to discover that these are not as complicated or challenging as you would tend to believe.

Assess your regular daily routine

If you really want to achieve a healthier lifestyle, it is essential that you start by looking at your normal daily routine. Look at the common activities and tasks that you perform on a daily basis. Are these activities and tasks potential sources of stress? Establish your priorities and decide which are important and which are not. Look at activities that you can possibly omit from your daily routine or tasks which you can reduce the frequency of occurrence.

Engage in activities that promote a healthy lifestyle

Once you are able to achieve a less stressful daily routine, your next task would be to decide on activities that will give you a healthier lifestyle. This becomes easier as you now have more time to do things or engage in activities that will enhance your overall health and well-being.

Adopt a healthy diet

This is a no-brainer. You can never claim that you are leading a healthier lifestyle if you don't take on a healthy diet. So, what constitute a healthy diet? A healthy diet consists of high energy food such as whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables. You must also cut back on your intake of processed foods and food items that are high in processed or refined sugar.

Adopt a healthy exercise regimen that is appropriate for your age

Surely, you would want to adopt an exercise routine that can help you achieve better health and well-being. You must adopt a weight and resistance training program that is matched with the appropriate cardio-exercise. Make sure that you select a program that you will enjoy doing and you must perform the exercise routine on a consistent basis.

This is the critical fine print of a healthy lifestyle. Once you are able to cover them, you will be able to achieve a healthier body and mind in no time at all.

Doctor Reviews - The Top Questions To Ask Your Primary Physician

2010-11-02T20:54:00.000-07:00

Andrew Stratton

After you have found an ideal doctor that suits your needs, your next step may be setting up a time for an initial consultation after reading doctor reviews. Past this step, you may not know what to expect or what to prepare for. Simply having a physician you feel comfortable around is more fortunate than what most people have, but what should you be asking this person? If you are curious or even nervous about your upcoming initial visit, here are some great questions to ask your clinician.

Which type of insurance you accept?

This is a big one and you want to make sure you cover it. You may have found the physician of your dreams, but what if you cannot afford to pay for his or her help? This would be a pity to discover later on in the case of an emergency. Most doctor reviews will make you aware of this.

How can I get a hold of you in the case of an emergency/What weekly hours do you practice?

Once your insurance inquiry is cleared up, you will want to discuss contact information and availability. Your primary clinician will most likely be the first person you contact in the event that you think you need medical attention. Make sure you know when and how to get in touch with this person when you are in need.

Can I get answers to simple questions without having to schedule an appointment?

This is a question that can be a big benefit to all parties involved. If any public service was ever utterly dependent on time, it is medicine. Find out if your doctor will be able to help you over the phone, or if there are portions of the day when you can potentially stop by and have a question answered quickly. Schedules are usually filled to capacity on any given day, as many people need immediate attention and care. Having to shuffle around your day-to-day schedule can be a real headache, so why go through the stress needlessly?

Do you mostly prescribe generic medications and are you open to non-traditional medical treatments?

Depending on what types of medication and treatments you are able to take or are comfortable with, a doctor without alternatives can be a problem. This can be important to know when the unexpected happens. Find out what your practitioner knows about other remedies that you may have heard of. Remember, a great physician is one that listens and gives advice, so ask about anything you are curious of regarding treatment procedures.

Are all the vaccinations and lab tests done in your office or might I have to go to a different facility? It can be a real drag to find out you have to schedule another appointment at another treatment center to have a specific test done. Everyone has a busy schedule and most of us do not like unexpected turns in our day. This will be good to know in advance when planning a trip to the doctor if you think you may have something such as blood work done.

Try to be as open and free around your practitioner as you can. Ask these questions and any others that you may have in regards to your new clinician's practice, or figure out the answers by reading doctor reviews. Do this and you will find out if the physician in question will be able to help you for years to come.

Doctor reviews will help you make some of the most important decisions you will ever make. To learn more please see: http://www.doctorreviewsonline.com/

Stress Reduction and the Science of Breath

2010-11-01T21:07:00.000-07:00

Cody Moss

It's time to rethink everything you know about breathing--it just might be the key ingredient in conquering stress and fighting off disease. It might not seem like much, but breathing is the simplest and most effective way to improve your life, your health, and your mind.

Let's start this thing off with a little exercise. Inhale for a ten second count, concentrate on breathing into your diaphragm, and expanding your ribs--hold your breath for four counts-now exhale for two counts, concentrate on pulling your belly-button to your spine. Repeat this breathing pattern nine times...

By now a couple of things have happened physiologically.

First off, you should feel pretty relaxed from the deep breathing, second your body was quite literally doing some housecleaning: detoxing your body of the types of toxins that cause cancer, arthritis, and heart disease, just to name some of the big ones. So now that you're feeling relaxed and focused let's break down a little of the science behind breathing.

Your lymph system is twice the size of the "other" circulatory system. That means there's twice as many lymph vessels as there are blood vessels. The function of the lymph system is key to your health. The lymphatic system is responsible for the absorption of excess fluid and its return to the blood stream, the absorption of fat, and immune system function. So to put it real simple: a health lymph system should be high on everybody's priority list. Which only leaves one question: how do you stimulate lymph system functions?

When it comes to blood flow, circulation is improved by increasing the heart rate. When it comes to the lymphatic system: movement, gravity, and breathing are the only ways to get the right fluids flowing. So let's look at a couple exercises designed to give a serious boost to your lymphatic system.
Let's go step by step.

Go back to our first breathing exercise: Inhale for a ten second count, concentrate on breathing into your diaphragm, and expanding your ribs--hold your breath for four counts-now exhale for two counts, concentrate on pulling your belly-button to your spine. Repeat ten times.

This deep breathing will relax your muscles and start an uninhibited flow of detoxifying fluids. Next try adding some movement and gravity. Two of the best classic standby exercises: jump rope and the mini-trampoline offer some of the best lymph stimulation possible owing to the vertical motion of each exercise. If you can fit in at the least five minutes a day on the rope or the trampoline, you'll notice the results.
For a more advanced practice the "warrior" pose from Yoga will also be particularly helpful in giving a boost to your lymph system while opening up the leg and the hip muscles.

Or for another standby, try rotating your upper body in slow motion circles, while holding a medicine ball.

Greenville, Simpsonville Personal Trainer

Cody has 12 years experience as a personal trainer. He started his career at the University of Washington as an instructor. He was in charge of running a beginning weightlifting class and was the creator of many new classes because of the demand for his knowledge and leadership skills. From there he trained at a corporate gym while gaining knowledge in the studies of human movement. He now has his own business with numerous pleased and fulfilled clients.

Greenville, Simpsonville Personal Training

General Knowledge About Life Care Plans For All Stages Of Life

2010-10-31T20:52:00.000-07:00

Shauna RUpert

Caring for those who are unable to care for themselves, either because of special needs, age or physical injury, can place an immense strain on family members and their finances. Depending on the level of the disability, your loved one may need around the clock care, which is just not realistic for those who have to work full time. Fortunately there are various facilities that offer different levels of care based on the needs of the patient and their family.

Life care offers care for the elderly when they are no longer able to care for themselves. What is life care? This is a facility that offers multiple levels of care for aging patients whether they need a little assistance or require full time care. These communities offer seniors a chance to socialize and otherwise live rewarding lives with professionals close at hand in the event assistance is needed. Some can live in their own apartments with staff providing food services; others might need more of a hospital-type setting due to illness. And others still, might require more intensive care due to dementia. No matter the situation, a life care facility is often the best choice as it serves the patients through all phases of the aging process.

For those with disabilities, independent living is the goal. What is independent living? This allows those with disabilities to live in society without the stigma that often is associated with physical or mental limitations. The independent living concept hinges on the idea that those with disabilities can be productive members of society. With coping skills and education, most of those with disabilities can live quite successfully on their own, without placing an additional burden on their families.

With healthcare being an integral part of life care and independent living, assessing the patient's healthcare needs will also play a role in the level of care chosen for an individual. What is healthcare? This can range from giving the patient daily medication, to monitoring vital signs to arranging doctor's visits. Depending on the patient's ability to do this on their own, a caretaker will often take on many of these roles.

With family members still leading very busy lives, mapping out a plan for life care for an aging or disabled love one is the best way to insure they receive proper care. This prevents the family from becoming overwhelmed and developing resentment. With this freedom, family members can enjoy the relationship which is mutually rewarding for both patient and loved ones. You can get the answers to many of your life care and healthcare questions on general knowledge as well as question and answer websites.

MayaQA is the largest repository of factual questions and answers on the Web. This General Knowledge website features an ever-growing (1 million+) answers to common questions in multiple languages. Questions are neatly categorized by field of interest. MayaQA offers the most targeted contextual advertising platform money can buy, with 90%+ of all traffic derived from organic search engine queries. For more information and details please visit http://mayaqa.com

5 Things You Can Do to Improve Your Fitness

2010-10-30T21:04:00.000-07:00

MD Williams

One of the most important challenges an individual will face in life, is to determine what fitness is, and what is an appropriate fitness level to strive for. In a society that sends mixed messages about food and drink, it stands to reason that one must have a plan to begin this process. The plan doesn't have to be a work of art when you are starting out, nor should it be something thrown together without thought. It should be clear, concise, and target your fitness needs. I have listed 5 things that you can do to improve your fitness.

The first thing is to "change" your thinking process. If your current fitness level is not acceptable to you, a first critical step in fitness transformation is to change your mindset. Take time to access your current values about fitness. Being willing to re-evaluate and adjust those values to accommodate a more fitness friendly concept, is crucial. Getting past this initial step, shows that you have engaged the idea of moving to another level of fitness.

Second, goal setting. Where would we be without a predefined criteria that summarizes the method for our desired result? Develop a set of goals for yourself. Something as simple as walking a half mile a day, or stretching 15-20 minutes a day, can be an effective strategy in your new fitness endeavor. Setting goals creates structure. Setting goals remind you what you have signed up for, and helps sharpen your focus.

Third, create an exercise plan that will allow you to make your physical transformation gradually. Stretching, body weight exercises, and walking are exercises that could energize this process. Make sure that your plan allows for progressive work. The body will adapt to a routine that doesn't change over time. The key here is creating the plan. Planning increases the chances of success and decreases the chances of injury. Approaching fitness without a plan is a recipe for injury as well as setting the stage for an erratic workout experience.

Fourth, create a diet plan that is based around your fitness goals. For example, if your fitness goal is to lose weight, then your "new" diet will feature a caloric intake that should reflect weight loss. On the other hand, if you are a linebacker on a local football team and your goal is to increase your physical size, then your daily caloric intake will reflect gaining weight. Diet plans help to properly fuel the body as well as develop muscle and endurance based on your fitness goals. Diet plans also assist you in changing the way you eat. The new eating habits should complement your newly developed exercise routine.

The final step is to commit to action. Acting on your plan is what brings it all together. You can create an exercise routine and a complimentary diet program, but if you can't commit to them, your fitness plan stops before it can get started.

If you can harness the 5 things listed here, then you will be well on your way to achieving fitness.

For more fitness tips:
http://www.the-powerof-fitness.info/

Make Money Online
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Strategies for Achieving a Healthy Lifestyle

2010-10-29T20:50:00.000-07:00

Dana Morrosis

According to a study done by Meredith Corp/NBC Universal's study "Women are More Concerned with Dieting and Weight Loss Rather than Serious Illnesses", 84% of women feel they are overweight. And as the title states they are more concerned about dieting and weight loss than with serious illnesses. These are staggering findings. Of course weight loss is a worthy goal but too often the focus is on quickly losing the weight instead of long-term strategies for achieving a healthy lifestyle. The focus should be on overall health and well-being not only for your body but mentally as well for long-term success.

When pursuing a healthy lifestyle you of course have to change what you eat as well as exercise. But you can also incorporate some non-traditional methods to help. Incorporate healthy mental, emotional and physical changes for lasting results.

• Natural and organic supplements as well as protein and fiber shakes and natural appetite suppressants are some aides to healthy weight loss. An important reminder is that these are aides and are not to substitute eating healthy meals and exercising.

• Meditation for balancing yourself mentally. Maintaining a healthy weight is a lot of emotional and mental work and meditation is extremely helpful in promoting a balanced and serene mind. It helps you to focus and keep your stress down which is key if you tend to eat in times of stress.

• Keeping a food journal helps you to understand what is missing in your diet and really helps you to determine where improvements need to be made.

• Therapy is helpful for keeping you from self-sabotaging yourself. A lot of maintaining a healthy weight is psychological and mental. Therapy can help you to identify your triggers and why you eat. It is helpful for developing strategies for how to overcome them.

• Nutritionists are helpful for being able to understand food labels and what is lacking in your eating habits. They can help you with portion size and caloric intake. One particular trick is to eat off of smaller plates so that it forces you to eat smaller portions.

• Surround yourself with positive people who encourage and cheer you on.

• Be creative and find fun active things to do. If you love to dance find a dance class. A creative dance class is aerial dancing. Find a sport you love. If you have children play outside with them. Walk the dog. If there is something you've always wanted to try now is the time to do it. You can mix it up. You don't have to stick with one thing. Just be active.

Develop your team to ensure your long-term success. Developing a healthy lifestyle is more than just eating right and exercising. You have to take care of the mental, emotional, psychological and physical aspects in order to achieve a healthy lifestyle. Incorporating these strategies until they become strong habits will ensure your success.

To claim free articles on health and weight loss, succeeding in home based businesses as well as strategies for being a successful single parent visit her website http://www.choosingfortune.com

Raw Food Diet, You Can Cure Yourself By Eating Raw Foods Like I Did! - Nurse's Secret

2010-10-28T21:03:00.000-07:00

Helen Hecker

If you're suffering from a variety of health problems or need to lose weight or both and are thinking about changing your diet you likely have made the right decision. Changing your diet to a nutritious healthy diet of raw foods (living foods) - foods that are alive - will pay off for you in optimum health. Most people today are eating the standard American diet, a predominately cooked diet with little nutritive value and are not aware how that diet is actually causing many of their ailments and diseases. Many people start a living food diet when they find out all the health benefits and realize that it may heal or cure them too.

I cured myself of breast cancer more than ten years ago and turned down all conventional treatments. In the process of changing to a raw food diet I also cured myself of many other ailments including fibromyalgia, acid reflux, chronic sinusitis, allergies and many others. My immune system hadn't been functioning properly. I even had problems trying to cure gum infections, cancer sores and simple infections and had many auto immune diseases and ailments.

As soon as I started eating my new diet I could feel the difference. Boundless energy, sleeping a lot less (five hours a night), little ailments started disappearing and then the big ones just gone. It was hard to believe that a diet could do this but still today I'm in excellent health all due to my raw food diet.

A living food diet is easy to start implementing and you don't have to make the switch all at once unless you want to. But you just start out eating more fruits and veggies and greens along with raw nuts. You can eat seeds like sunflower seeds by making a few raw recipes for pates, etc. if you like. There are hundreds or literally thousands of raw recipes that you can make. But you can eat simply also. You never feel hungry or gain weight if you eat a lot and eating a lot is the key.

Losing weight is easy on a living food diet. Pounds just drop off and you're eating healthy too and doing the best for your body!

Most people don't realize how much they need to eat of fruit or veggies a day and what kind of greens and how much. Just give foods that are alive a try. It won't cost you anything but the food you buy and by shopping around you can buy fruits, veggies, greens and raw nuts at good prices. Try to get organic or buy from local farms as much as possible but at least by adding raw foods to your current diet your body will thank you every day and know that you're helping it in every way possible. I think about everything that goes into my mouth and how it will affect my body. Will it help or heal me are two good questions to ask before you eat anything. Just get started on a raw food diet today. You'll be happy you did like I am.

Next for my raw food diet cure and secrets - how I used it to help cure my breast cancer, arthritis, fibromyalgia, acid reflux, digestive & sleep issues, headaches, pain, weight loss, etc. see a nurse/raw food expert's http://www.RawFoodDietCure.com and my easy raw food recipes http://www.RecipesRaw.com

You Can Stay Fit Working Your Home Based Internet Business

2010-10-27T20:48:00.000-07:00

Kristy Emmert

So you have a home business which puts you at your computer most of the day. Your sitting at your desk working most of the time and find that you are not moving around as much as you should.

I understand...Once I get going, I'm on a roll. The last thing I want to do is stop and go workout or stop and take a break. What I do know that I have to take care of my health. If I don't do it, nobody else will. It's my body and its my responsibility to do things that are good for it. So I make a point to add some sort of exercise into my daily schedule. You can stay fit working your home based internet business.

I did not used to always be like this. I used to sit, work eat, sleep...sit, work, eat, sleep. The only thing I cared about was building my home based internet business. So I was sitting most of the day and I did not feel like working out. I was tired & lazy at the end of the day and it was showing. I got tired of the way I felt and the way I looked. To rest is to rust. So now that's all changed. Working out is part of my daily schedule. You can stay fit and while you are at home building your home based internet business.

Here are a few tips to help you stay in shape as you are building your home based internet business. You can stay fit.

First things first; make sure you are getting enough water. Most of us are dehydrated and don't even know it. So make sure you are getting your 8 glasses of water a day. Drink a big one when you first get up in the morning. That is so good for you. Always have a big glass of water at your desk while you are working your home based internet business. Just make sure it's in a safe spot so it doesn't spill on your stuff.

You can stay fit by putting on your favorite song and doing the boogie. It doesn't matter what you do, just move around. Get creative. Create your own workout. I do it all the time. I will do one song for abs, just non stop for the whole song. Do the crunch, the left side crunch, the right side crunch, feet up crunch...you get the idea. Then I'll replay the song (I'm bad about that, I'll replay one song over and over again). This time I'll do a legs work out...Then there's the cardio and the arms. You can even use weights.

I use the exercise ball as a chair, so there's a whole different set of workouts. I get a workout just sitting. I really notice the difference in my abs, just by doing that one thing. (be careful not to fall off or that its under you when you sit. I jammed my shoulder real bad one time when that happened) You can stay fit working your home based internet business.

Get your sunlight. There are so many health benefits just by getting your daily dose of sun. It is very important that you do this. So get out there around mid day and just soak it in for a few. Feel it in your bones. It's so good for you.

Don't forget the cardio. Take a little walk at the end of the day after dinner. Think about your day and what you accomplished. This is a great way to end your day. Remember you can stay fit and still work your home based internet business.

Kristy Emmert
Entrepreneur/ Internet Marketer

Helping others to start an online business from Beginner to Advanced Marketing Training.

http://www.completeimtraining.com

Medical Travel - Do's and Don'ts

2010-10-26T21:02:00.000-07:00

Nikhil Lamba

Medical travel has been a rapidly growing trend in the healthcare industry. With the ever increasing cost of medical treatment and the long waiting time in the developed nations, more and more people are willing to cross the borders to get treated.

Some of the major factors influencing the growth of medical tourism are:

1. Lower cost of treatment
2. Highly skilled doctors
3. No wait time
4. State of the art technology
5. Modern facilities

Even though there are many advantages to medical tourism, there are some concerns as well. In this article, I will discuss some basic points that medical tourists should keep in mind before finalizing their trip, to prevent from getting scammed.

The most important thing to begin with, when considering medical travel, is "RESEARCH". Here are some of the things to check online or with your known ones who have gone through this process.

1. Reputation of your medical tourism company - Many medical tourists take assistance from medical travel companies. Though this turns out a bit more expensive then going at it alone, it does saves you from a lot of hassles.

Hiring the right medical travel agency is key, and for that you should do a through check on the company. The Internet is a good place to see what people are saying about a particular company. Read reviews, if possible email people who have hired them earlier and get their feedback. Understand what you should be looking out for and learn from experience.

Do not choose a medical tourism company just on the bases of price. Reputation is what's important.

2. Reputation of the Doctor and Hospital - Don't leave this decision for the medical tourism company to make. Medical tourism companies are affiliated with some and not all the doctors and hospitals in the country of your interest. Do through research on doctors and choose the one that best suites your needs.

If you leave this decision for the medical travel companies, they just might choose a doctor that best suites their needs and not yours.

3. Before leaving the country, understand what is being offered to you and have that in writing and not promises. Understand everything from hotel stay to travel arrangements. Factor everything in and make sure there aren't any additional costs or taxes that you will have to make payments for. Understand what kind of arrangements will be made during an emergency or if anything untoward happens.

If you are going to be traveling within the country, make sure that the price you are paying for the entire package includes travel and lodging for that too.

4. Price for treatment - By checking a few local websites of doctors, you can get a really good idea of how much locals are charged for a particular treatment. Many a times medical tourists are charged a premium as their willingness to pay is higher. You can negotiate on price, if high, and know that quality will not be hampered.

In short, have a clear understanding of all the aspects of traveling for your medical treatment. Do through research and learn from others mistakes. Make up your own mind as to what you need and prevent from getting influenced.

With millions of people traveling to get operated for procedures like dental treatment, plastic surgery, orthopaedics, IVF treatment etc. medical travel has become safe and acceptable. But still, be cautious and do your research before taking a final decision.

Nikhil Lamba,
For more Information visit us at: Health Articles

Take Care of Your Wellness and Your Wellbeing Will Take Care of You

2010-10-25T20:46:00.000-07:00

Janine Cobb

Excellent wellness is a single of the most critical private assets a particular person can have. If healthful, a particular person can fairly be expected to have a full lifestyle and follow his or her passions with out the inhibitions connected with illness or illness.

The expression "wellness care" is utilized very often, and refers to the management or therapy of any well being issue provided by healthcare, nursing, or dental associated companies. The pursuit of excellent well being entails all the companies and products created.

Dependent on how a wellbeing proper care program is organized, whether or not for a significant group of individuals or a single person, the scope and delivery and its rated effectiveness will constantly be noticed by means of a subjective lens. Thus, no well being proper care process is observed devoid of flaw. The quality of wellness treatment is fairly usually decided by earnings and accessibility. In several produced nations, health proper care is intended to cater to all people.

Good well being precedes the capacity to generate something valuable in existence. It provides a individual the vitality to create the expertise, networks, and self confidence to go after a dream. Poor well being, on the other hand, can turn out to be a significant deterrent in lifestyle no subject what one's individual capabilities or talents. Well being is truly "wealth," and is one of the most crucial lessons anybody can discover all through a lifetime.

Workout and Consume Healthy

Acquiring into a physical exercise schedule is crucial for numerous reasons. Very first, your entire body, thoughts and spirit are direct beneficiaries. 2nd, obtaining and sticking with an workout program makes it possible for you to create internal self-control, which is an asset no issue what you follow for enjoyable or enterprise. Even if the routine is a strolling a mile or two every single day, you a lot more than likely will start off to encounter a good effect in a extremely brief time.

Sadly, the globe looks to be blanketed with quick meals eating places that greet us on each and every street corner. And the foods stores that promote pure wellbeing meals may well be out of the inexpensive variety for quite a few. Fortunately, there is always a grocery store nearby with an assortment of nutritious meals to decide on from. It may acquire a tiny self-control, but it is not difficult to spend a minor much more funds on healthful vegetables even though observing our cholesterol and sugar intake.

Janine Cobb has been a freelance writer. Visit to her newly launched internet site at http://www.maternitydenimskirt.org/ that offers the most common Maternity Denim Skirt.

You're The Only One That Matters

2010-10-23T20:43:00.000-07:00

Donovan Owens

To some, this may not be considered my normal fitness and nutrition motivation but hear me out and it will all make sense.

Here's the quick n' dirty....

Stop Taking Care of Everyone Else At the Expense of Yourself!

I see this day in and day out at.

People, wonderful souls, taking care of others needs before tending to their own.

As natural care-givers, this is so true of women especially.

"Where does Johnny need to be at 5pm?"

"Gotta get to the craft store by 3 for Sally's homework supplies"

"What am I going to make for dinner?"

"Starting at 9pm... Laundry"

I'm a blessed man with a beautiful wife and 2 beautiful children, myself.

Trust me; I get it.

Life is busy.

Demands from work, family and home can become beyond overwhelming at times.

Bur far too often, the word 'self' is left off that list above.

The cold hard truth is that you will never reach your goals if you don't prioritize your needs and add yourself to the daily 'must do' list.

And really, that's all there is to it.

The determined and convicted mindset to simply add your name to the top of the list (or at very least, half way down!).

Here's a little secret I've learned about success and self-fulfillment that I think will serve you extremely well...

Success is nothing more than scheduling and preparation.

Schedule your time and prepare accordingly - let nothing rest in fates hands.

Here are my "3 Most Important Things I Do (and so should you) To Make Sure I'm On My List" -

1) Make Your Schedule Visible

Don't have a running itinerary floating in your head that leaves you dizzy and is in constant flux.

Write things down.

Be diligent about recording what it is you're going to do, when and for how long.

You will be AMAZED at how much more time you realize you have in a day when everything is set and scheduled.

2) Prepare Nightly

Every evening, the very last thing I do before checking out for the day, is set my schedule for tomorrow.

I sleep more comfortably knowing that everything is in order for the next day; all I have to do is wake up and execute.

I don't have any 'Oh Ya... I Forgot' moments.

I don't run around like a madman.

I don't let things slip through the cracks (most of the time).

And I ALWAYS have time for me and my needs.

In fact, I encourage you to use the same system I do. It's 100% free.

Google Docs ( www.docs.google.com ) gives you templates to use that allow you to create schedules online and access them from any computer or computerized device.

In my car, at my office or even at a local photocopy center, I have complete and unfettered access to my schedule at the click of a button.

Give it a try!

3) Let EVERYONE Know!

Here's my last little secret....

Tell EVERYONE that this is your new way of conducting business.

Your spouse.

Kids.

Family.

Friends.

And live HARD by this notion....

If it's not on my schedule, you can't expect me to get it done at the last moment.

Trust me entirely here. It's a short process, but once everyone in your life knows that you maintain a rigid schedule and accountability on your time, there last minute "Can you...?" will come to an abrupt stop!

Schedule and preparation....

The two secret but insanely effective keys to success!

Decide,

Donovan Owens
THE Boot Camp Godfather

P.S. Although this is not direct fitness and nutrition information, scheduling and preparation can and will dramatically affect how much time you spend in this area. Don't let it fall through the cracks.

Donovan Owens, is a Fitness Professional from Hutto, Texas, and invites you to connect with him over at his blog http://iDecideFitness.com/Blog and while you're there pick up his FREE Rapid Fat Loss Report.

Whole Body Gives Us the Whole Story

2010-08-31T20:14:00.000-07:00

Aimee Kartzman

We Are Not Just A Pancreas, Nor A Liver Or Even A Spleen.

This revelatory experience came to me one day walking out of a doctor's office (concluding what seemed like dozens of serial visits with no real answers). At the time, my body was weakened, I was confused and most importantly, I was yearning for connection and for someone to truly tell me what was wrong with me. Tests were run, some items were picked out, and potential other doctors who specialize in these items were then referred. But, where was it all going, besides the drain out of my wallet?

I was tired of someone staring at my blood results or my liver enzyme count and then looking at me with a glazed over, indifferent stare. I couldn't afford one more of these visits (emotionally and financially!). I simply wanted some answers that made sense and for someone to see me, and not as an organ or a lab result.

At the time, what I didn't realize is that I was looking for a holistic approach to medicine. Holistic medicine can be utterly useful for 'patients' like me. This type of patient, who we can name Patient X are many. Patient X can be your mother, brother, friend or even you! Patient X is someone that from a 'clinical' standpoint in the medical industry does not show up with a 'diagnosis'. In addition, Patient X may be too young to simply chalk it up to general aging ailments. So, is it in Patient X's head then? In my case, was the fatigue, the shingles, the hearing loss, the irritable bowel all in my head? Patient X bops around from doctor to specialist to maybe even trying some medications that were prescribed but are still confused about what is going on with their bodies as none of it makes sense.

It still took a while after my own experience to learn that the liver, the spleen, the fatigue or my other symptoms were simply trying to talk to me. Pain is actually a wonderful messenger to let us know something in the body is off balance.

Many years later, I embraced the concept whole-heartedly and passionately that the body is not fixable by addressing one symptom to make it better, but like a sea-saw in the playground, it simply needs to find balance. More specifically, like the sea-saw, one side has no weight and can shoot up in the air and stay there indefinitely while the other side can drive madly into the dusty bed of the playground floor due to it's astounding massive weight. For those that have ridden the sea-saw know how it can be scary to be flung up so high or driven down so fast to the dirt bed. In fact, it may even injure one or both parties!

So in body terms, nutrients and lifestyle choices need to be added to fill in the deficiency and create more weight to the side of the sea-saw that is totally up in the air. In addition, certain lifestyle choices need to be adjusted or removed to relieve extra weight off the sea-saw. These may include changing to non-organic household cleaning products or reducing sugar or dairy products from the diet. When we find what needs to be added and what needs to be removed, our body, like the sea-saw can start coming into balance.

The exciting news is that it is not that complicated as it may seem. There are only a few big ticket items, i.e., 'weights' to bring down our sea-saws, which may include addressing the following:

1) Toxicity (environmental, lifestlyle and diet)
2) Hormone Imbalance
3) Fungus/Bacteria / Parasites
4) Viral Infections
5) Heavy Metals
6) Inflammation / Infections
7) Genetic predisposition

On the other side of the sea-saw, Patient X also needs to remove a few to help bring the body into full balance. These may include:

1) Lifestyle choices (alcohol and drug consumption, sleep, exercise)
2) Additional Nutrients or supplements
3) Change of diet
4) Stress modification techniques or emotional healing

Holistic healing has been around through the ages and there are many healing modalities that are used. If you or someone you know is a Patient X, start considering a whole body approach to healing and potentially even working with someone who sees you already whole and thus aids your healing from this capacity. Whole body healing requires full participation and buy-in as well as taking full responsibility.

That is not to say there is not a place for allopathic medicine. It is certainly part of the 'whole' and thus has it's place. Generally, there are very few quick magic pills to make it all go away. It may feel better, but is it healing? Empower yourself and find this out. To heal something requires embrace and understanding of it's mechanics.

When consciously choosing a whole body healing approach, you will begin embracing a wonderful journey of empowerment as well as learning depth-full lessons about yourself. It is quite exciting to begin a journey focused on the fine-tuning of your sea-saw and you will see that many gifts will flow from this shift in your life.

Go on...walk to the playground and visit your sea-saw, it may be calling your name.

Aimee Kartzman of BPro-Active is certified as an Iridologist, Master Herbalist, Nutrition Counselor, Holistic Wellness Coach, Yoga Teacher and Thai Massage Specialist. She creates long-term wellness plans that tailor to the body's constitution and life choices.

'Wellness can be fun and easy and it generally doesn't take long to put more of a pep in your step.'

For more information, visit http://www.BPro-Active.com.

Chiropractic Techniques Might Be Helpful to You

2010-08-31T20:12:00.000-07:00

Nick Messe

Many people already seek the help of a chiropractor, but if you're not familiar with them, you might not know what techniques they use that can be helpful to you.

If you've not been to a chiropractic clinic lately, it's likely that you don't know how much a few visits can help you. In fact, many people don't have any idea what it is that chiropractors do, so they don't think that they should visit one. You might want to reconsider your decision to stay away and take a good look at some of the ways that you can begin to feel healthy and comfortable again.

Believe it or not, if you're body's not properly aligned or if the muscles in your back and neck are tense, you will begin to experience headaches. If the joints in your spine are not functioning properly, it's pretty likely that you suffer from pinched nerves and difficulty performing your every day tasks.

Most of these issues can be taken care of with a few different adjusting techniques and over time you'll begin feeling better than ever. With the Diversified technique for instance, your chiropractic will take the time to study your spine. They will watch the way you move, take X-rays and do a case history. Once they have identified which joints and bones are not moving properly, the chiropractor will then begin to readjust the spine, joint by joint to help you to start moving more freely.

Another commonly used technique is known as Cox Flexion-Distraction. This is a technique which requires no force, but a special table helps to relieve pressure on the back and spine and ease compression on the muscles and discs in the back. It is regarded as highly effective by the practitioners and is actually pleasant for most patients.

You should know that many chiropractors and massage therapists are focusing on gentle massage and realignment of the spine, muscles and body to help heal the body and give it the strength it needs to avoid injuries in the future. These are gentle, soothing techniques that many people report give them instant relief from pain and discomfort.

Many chiropractic clinics use lasers to help heat deep muscle tissue. This stimulates tissue growth and healing on a deeper level than your body could reach on its own. In addition, massage therapy and deep tissue massage can help to stimulate circulation and, much like a laser, can encourage healing and reduce pain. Over time, these techniques can actually help to loosen tight muscles and allow the body to become properly balanced.

When you're dealing with pain in your back, legs, neck or head, a visit to a good chiropractic clinic can not only help to relieve pain that you deal with daily, but can get you on the road to recovery. Continued therapy can help you to become stronger and more flexible, which can ease the pain you're currently feeling and help you to live a healthy, happy and pain free life.

When looking for quality Vancouver Washington Chiropractors, health-conscious families choose Summit Chiropractic & Massage. Our clinic has massage therapists and chiropractors that offer natural relief of chronic pain, headaches, disc disorders and personal injury cases.

Natural Killers

2010-08-30T20:11:00.000-07:00

Bette Dowdell

I'm talking killers, and I'm talking about you.

You have natural killers in you.

And these natural killers are a good thing. A very good thing.

Which is why I'm going to talk about how to keep your natural killers in top shape, ready for action.

First, let's talk about the company your killers hang out with. Natural killer cells are part of the endocrine system-thyroid, adrenals, etc-a bunch of glands that pretty much determine how good we feel. And these guys are a tight group.

When one part of the endo system has a problem, the others rush to help. No matter what happens to them, they jump in-then they all end up in a ditch. Which is bad. When the endocrine glands ain't happy, ain't nothin' happy. It's like a bus hit you.

So listen up. Let's learn how to keep these guys happy.

First off, our thymus gland, part of the all-for-one/one-for-all endocrine system, is top dog in keeping our immunity in fighting shape.

And the thymus creates the natural killer cells, otherwise known as NKs. They patrol your body 24/7, hunting for viruses, bacteria, etc. NKs kill the bad guys before they can take us down.

But sometimes the enemy is armed to the teeth: Pesticides, herbicides, fungicides and insecticides-on our food, in the water, in the air-pretty much everywhere-can beat the tar out of our killer cells. The NKs are out-manned and outgunned.

This opens the way for free radicals-unbalanced cells-to jump in. Then they go on a tear attacking healthy cells to get what they need to get balanced.

This leads to oxidative stress. Oxide is, basically, rust. As you might guess, rust slows things down.

And rust keeps our cells from getting enough oxygen. Cells can't live without oxygen. Without enough, cells get very sloooow. Without any, cells die. You are on the road to dread diseases. Which announces its presence with visible signs of aging..

Which is why we hear all the talk about antioxidants. Get enough of those babies, and the oxidative stress problem goes away. Well, perhaps not completely.

Our food supply-fruit, vegetables, meat, dairy-comes chock-a-block full of toxic gunk. And food is only part of this mess. There's no way we can get enough antioxidants to win this war. We must get rid of some bad guys.

What can we do?

To fortify our killer cells, we absolutely, positively need antioxidants, starting with a full agenda of vitamin and mineral supplements. Our bodies insist on balance, so rather than random, hit-or-miss nutrition, give them everything they need to fight the good fight. It's a team effort, not a Lone Ranger kind of thing.

And we need exercise. Not the 'no pain, no gain' variety. Not even aerobic exercise. Weights, resistance training, walking and the like, done to tolerance. You don't do your body any favors by taxing your strength, so start where you are and get better.

Then, to level the playing field, we need to limit toxins as much as possible. In terms of food, go organic if you can-grass-fed beef, free-range chicken and eggs, organic produce. Let supermarket managers know you want organic. Shop at farmers' markets. Go on-line for grass-fed beef. In other words, make new shopping habits.

If you can't get organic produce, start washing and peeling. And don't eat anything that grows underground like carrots, onions and potatoes. They get drowned with toxic chemicals like you wouldn't believe, and no amount of washing cleans them up. They're an organic must.

The word's getting out, and people are voting for better food with their dollars. In the meantime, it's going to take effort to protect your natural killers, your immune system, your health and your youthful appearance.

You're worth it.

Confused about what vitamins and minerals you need? Not certain about what to look for in nutritional supplements? Bette Dowdell dug herself out of a really deep health ditch, and she wants to use her 30+ years of study to help you do the same. Don't go dragging through life when you don't have to. Bette's e-book Pep for the Pooped: Vitamins and Minerals Your Body Is Starving For helps you build a solid health foundation-and takes you directly to the right brand, the best type, at the lowest price. Save time and money-plus get the knowledge you're on the right track. Get a free, sample chapter of this eye-opening e-book at http://PepForThePooped.com

Key Food Items That Contribute to Food Poisoning

2010-08-29T19:27:00.000-07:00

By Johnny David Lee

If there is such a thing as food poisoning incidence, there sure is a poisoning contributor.

Think of people who are nauseated and vomiting, having painful abdominal cramps, passing watery stools every 15 minutes, accompanied by headache, muscle and joint pains. When we encounter somebody that is exhibiting these symptoms, we immediately think of food poisoning. The first question we will ask the patient is what food did he ate.

The first food poisoning contributor is of course the food. Is the food destroyed or did you use a rancid butter on it? Maybe one of the ingredients is contaminated with microorganisms such as salmonella bacteria. Sometimes, due to hunger, people eat or drink something that smells and tastes "different". Sometimes also, the food that you ate was half-done. The inside part of the meat hasn't been touched with the heat of the boiling water. That means, microorganisms are still safe living there as the boiling temperature was not able to penetrate their habitat. With this in mind, it becomes clear that it is dangerous to eat raw food.

The next question is to ask a patient is where did he get the food? We want to know because we want to ask if there are other people who are suffering the same symptoms just because they ate the same food. The where question is also important so that healthy and safety certificates of the establishments should be checked. Maybe the kitchen or the factory they are preparing the goods they are selling has not been inspected and approved for operation yet. Also, maybe the workers in that establishment are carriers of some diseases that can be passed on to the food they are preparing if they practice poor hygiene. How the food was prepared is a food poisoning contributor.

The next food poisoning contributor is the manner the food was stored such in the case of a leftover. Most microorganisms love room temperature so they can thrive and reproduce. That is the reason it is still safer to keep leftovers in the refrigerator and then preheating it before serving it again on the table.

The final and the most important food poisoning contributor is the person who ate the food (the sufferer). It could be that he has poor hygienic practice. That means he does not practice hand washing before eating or he ignored the fact that the food tasted or smelled funny or that it was not properly covered.

On the other hand, in the defense of the sufferer, some microorganisms like the salmonella does not change the taste and smell of the food (unless it was destroyed). It is there alive and populating silently that you think their habitat is actually yummy and safe to eat.

There are many food poisoning contributors. The key here to entirely avoid incidents is to make sure that the links from the preparation of the food up to the time it was consumed should be hygienic and safely done. A break in this link predisposes the consumer to experience the nasty signs and symptoms of food poisoning.

About the Author :

Johnny has experience in health and personal care product.

His website contains many worthy information about Food poisoning signs

How Your Face Reveals Your Health

2010-08-28T20:09:00.000-07:00

Kum Martin

A face is not all about beauty. It also is a mirror into your health. The way your face looks and appears, you can tell a lot about your health. Different parts of the face will give you information on the health of different organs of your body. Of course, do not start self-medication if your face reveals that there is something wrong. Make sure you visit your doctor to get a confirmed diagnosis and leave it to your doctor to treat the problem.

Some of the ways that your face can reveal the status of your health are as follows:

Your nose gives an indication about your lungs. If you have thin and long nostrils, then your lungs are weak. People with this type of nostrils need to do a lot of deep breathing exercises and physical activities to develop the power of their lungs. On the other hand, if you have a red and bulbous nose, it maybe an indication of heart disease, liver disease or elevated blood pressure.

People who have sunken and hollow cheeks have weak lungs and digestive tract. It can also be an indication of malnutrition or physical exhaustion.

If you are suffering from pimples, it means that you are consuming too many sugar laden foods like candies and pastries. Also, cut down on your consumption of eggs, meat, fat and fish.

If your facial skin has a orange or yellow tinge to it, it could indicate a problem with liver, pancreas, gallbladder or spleen. If you face has bluish, white or red spots, it means that you maybe suffering from cardiovascular disease, overproduction of bile, fever or inflammation. White patches on the skin are indication of liver problem or kidney problems.

A double chin means that you have too much cholesterol and fat deposits in your body.

Having pale or red lips could be an indication of stomach or intestinal disorders, constipation, indigestion or compacted colon. Having wrinkles above the upper lips indicates hormonal problem. If you have cracks at the corner of your mouth, you are suffering from a deficiency of Vitamin B12.

About Author:
Kum Martin is an online leading expert in healthcare. He also offers top quality articles like:
Anorexia and Dieting
Social Anxiety Disorder

Suffering From Low Energy? You Could Be Suffering From Adrenal Fatigue!

2010-08-27T19:25:00.000-07:00

By Jimmy Jamm

Millions of people suffer from what is known as adrenal fatigue. This is a condition where the individual feels listless and devoid of the strength needed to perform mundane everyday tasks such as getting out of bed, go up and down a flight of stairs or taking a shower. Those that suffer from adrenal fatigue report a lack of general energy and chronic inability to perform simple tasks. The condition emanates from the failure of the adrenal glands, which sit right next to the kidneys, to produce two critical chemical hormones, testosterone and cortisol. This causes a chronic decrease in the body's energy levels.

Adrenal glands and hormones

A lot of research has been conducted on this condition and also its relationship to other similar conditions such as the chronic fatigue syndrome. The body's failure to produce critical hormones from the adrenal glands has been the sole reason that people experience a loss of energy. The condition has been compounded by the fact that symptoms are hard to diagnose, simply because they resemble many other conditions.

Symptoms and characteristics

Adrenal fatigue afflicts quite a number of people. As we mentioned, its symptoms resemble those of many other conditions. One of the characteristics of fatigue is that the person has difficulty performing even the most mundane of tasks. They report that the energy and the drive just isn't there. That is why there is a thin line between chronic fatigue syndrome and adrenal fatigue. Researchers are finding that the key to adrenal fatigue lies in the production of adrenaline and cortisol which are key to handling of stress. Because of modern stressful living, adrenaline and cortisol are produced almost constantly and depending on the degree of stress, the adrenal glands can shut down "in protest". The causes the body to suffer from chronic fatigue.

Treating adrenal fatigue

Adrenal fatigue or chronic fatigue syndrome is a deceptive condition. It's deceptiveness comes from the fact that suffers do not look sick and can indeed pass off as perfectly normal. Even worse, the basic symptoms can resemble those of any other common sickness and sometimes can even masquerade as a normal tiredness. But this condition can lower one's ability to enjoy a high quality of life.

Chronic fatigue can be treated with medication. In many cases, the doctors recommend a remedy for stress-free living which can be more outdoor events and a reduction in anxiety.

About the Author :

Critical Chronic Fatigue Treatment

What the Hell is a Health Coach? 10 Ways One Can Help You

2010-08-26T20:08:00.000-07:00

Suncear Scretchen

Ever since I started classes at Institute of Integrative Nutrition, I've been getting that question a lot. I don't mind people asking because it gives me an opportunity to explain but I do wish it were a more prevalent profession. More health coaches would mean more people living happier lives, less prescription drugs and hospital bills which means less tax dollars spent on healthcare.

Since graduating last week as a Certified Health Coach, now seems like the perfect time to include an entry on what I do. Health coaching is simply helping people lead healthier lifestyles. And there are many ways that signing up for my program can help you. Let us count the ways.

1) Managing stress: Sometimes what's going on in your life affects how you eat. We tend to reach for food and alcohol as a way to avoid dealing with unhappy situations. Through my program, you will be able to identify areas in your life that trigger those responses.

2) Lose weight: Not only do HCs help keep you on track nutritionally but physically as well. Exercise is a very important part of the program as it increases energy, moods and metabolism.

3) Improve Personal Relationships: When you feel good physically, you feel good emotionally and mentally. And when you feel good emotionally and mentally, you will become more positive, light-hearted and less irritable.

4) Gain more energy: Adding certain foods and eliminating others will increase your energy.

5) Help with specific medical issues: If you suffer from health issues such as diabetes, digestive disorders or thyroid conditions (my specialty), an HC can recommend a nutritional program that helps alleviate symptoms and may even reverse the condition- naturally.

6) Navigate through the myriad of nutritional advice such as the benefits in choosing organic, knowing the difference between cage-free vs free range poultry, vegan vs vegetarian, etc.

7) Deciding what diet is best for you: How you ate as a child, your blood type, your dohsa (Ayurveda) all can play a part in deciding what diet is most effective for you. You may benefit from eating meat or a Mediterranean meal plan could be your best bet. We will figure that out.

8) Curb cravings: sugar, salt, coffee - all of these items are okay in moderation but when we are craving them, it could mean that there is something nutritionally missing and your body is communication that. We will discover how to identify and eliminate cravings.

9) Integrating healthier foods into your diet: I will help you discover some new foods and show you ways to prepare them. You never know what you may end up enjoying!

10) Having a personal advocate for your health: I'm not bashing the healthcare system but sometimes it can feel like you are barely being heard. Taking control of your health and practicing preventive healthcare is really each individual's responsibility and it helps to have someone who is there for 50 minute one on one sessions twice a month. I keep you on track with the program and lead you to the road of having a happier healthier life.

http://www.theconsciouschick.com
http://www.suncerewellness.com

Tips on Stroke Prevention

2010-08-25T19:23:00.000-07:00

By Julie Armstrong

Many people each day all around the world suffer from strokes. It can be fatal and even if it's not, the aftermath is very difficult to deal with and can severely alter lives. This is why stroke prevention is very important because every person should want to lessen their risk of having it happen to them.

Before getting into stroke prevention, let us examine what a stroke is. When blood flow to the brain becomes blocked, a stroke occurs. This happens when the blood clots or bleeding of the brain occurs, or blood vessels begin to narrow. When a stroke occurs, the brain becomes deprived of nutrients and nerve cells start to die. Many times, the resulting conditions cannot be undone. Some conditions that can occur as a result of a stroke are vision and other sensory loss, walking problems, talking problems, and the inability to think clearly.

There are two main types of strokes. One is ischemic. These are caused by the blood clots and blockages. The other is hemorrhagic. This one is more common and happens when blood vessels rupture. There is also thrombotic and embolic. Thrombotic happens when the arteries become filled with plaque and embolic occurs when blood clots that formed in other parts of the body break loose into the bloodstream.

Having high blood pressure greatly increases the chance of suffering from a stroke. Blood pressure should be monitored frequently to make sure it is at a safe and healthy level. There are things you can do to lower it. If you overweight, lose that extra weight. Do it the healthy way by making a life-long choice of eating healthy (a low fat diet with plentiful vegetables and fruits) and exercising regularly. Avoid smoking, the use of tobacco products, drinking alcohol, consuming caffeine, and consuming too much sodium.

Consuming vitamin E and fish oil is recommended to prevent strokes. Foods that contain vitamin E include avocado, milk, asparagus, eggs, nuts, spinach, seeds, vegetable oils, wholegrain, and wheat. Fish oil can be taken through ingesting supplements.

Also, if you have diabetes, you must do whatever necessary to keep it in check. Besides taking insulin, simply living a healthier lifestyle is very helpful. And of course, you will want to limit your sugar intake as much as possible.

Also, schedule a visit with your physician to have your circulation in your body checked. Poor circulation in parts of the body can increase your risk of stroke, which is why it is a smart choice to have an examination done.

Those were a few way in preventing strokes. They are not hard to do, so try them and stay healthy.

About the Author :

Julie has been writing articles online for nearly 4 years now.

In addition to writing health related articles, she also publishes reviews of various consumer products.

Come visit her latest website that discusses energy efficient space heater, DeLonghi space heater and other types of portable heaters.

Sick of Health

2010-08-24T20:06:00.000-07:00

Steve D Russell

Forgive the pun, but I'm sick of watching and listening to the ideological bigotry being used by both sides in the current debate over healthcare reform. Even the fallacy that the debate could possibly be encapsulated by "two sides" makes me angry. The very idea that being able to shout louder than someone else or that a few words written on a placard contributes anything to a debate on such an important issue is asinine in the extreme. Such behavior, including mindless chanting of simplistic slogans, effectively halts all objective discussion and obscures the real issues.

So, stop mouthing off, stop quoting extreme anecdotal examples and stop using prefabricated, emotive labels designed to perpetuate already polarized thinking.

This maybe a revolutionary idea, but why don't we start looking at factual evidence backed up by legitimate research. Yes I know this a new concept, but just bear with me for a while, you never know, we might then draw some reasoned and sensible conclusions.

Here is an initial, outrageous idea to open up your thinking:

Starting in 2011, schooling for our children will no longer be funded or provided by either state or federal government. All parents and children will be expected to pay in full for their academic education which will be provided by private institutions. Emergency treatment for difficult math problems and long words will be available at certain schools but waiting times might be quite long.

This policy will be introduced on the overall premise that nobody ever died as a direct result of not being educated. However, people do die as a direct result of health issues. In view of this, all funding currently provided by every level of government to education will be reallocated to healthcare. Silly idea because that's not the way we do things - and imagine the increased incidence of illiteracy...Oh, wait a second...

Now that you are smiling broadly and are instantly ready take on new and radical ideas, here are some facts:
• The United States of America does not have the best health system in the world
• The United States of America does not have the worst health system in the world
• The United States of America has some of most advanced healthcare expertise in the world
• The United States of America's delivery of overall healthcare and its health outcomes do not compare well to most other industrialized countries
• The United States of America has the capability to offer expert treatment to patients of all ages
• The United States of America has an illogically high incidence of infant mortality, short longevity and avoidable death rates

Okay, that smile has lessened somewhat, so here are some factual statements and observations:

• I don't know which country does have the best health system in the world - but neither does anyone else reading this
• The United States of America spends more (per capita) on administering the bureaucracy of its healthcare than any other country in the world. Sometimes by a factor of three or four over countries with effective universal systems.
• There is no particular reason why employers should continue to be responsible for providing healthcare. It is an invidious practice that can be extremely detrimental to both employee and employer interests. The practice has its origins in the pay freezes of World War II, yet now seems entrenched in the American working life. Why should your employer decide what health cover you get? Your family physician doesn't tell you where you should work!
• There is no reason why a national, universal health plan should increase individual or government healthcare costs. Individual tax costs will increase but, if a scheme is implemented effectively, there will be no health insurance premiums to pay. Employers should no longer have to pay their portion to the insurers and there should be no co-pay. In case you missed that - NO CO-PAY! Your employer may even pass his or her savings on to you as a wage increase.
• Effective preventative healthcare makes an enormous contribution to the quality of life and the longevity of that life. In the current situation prevailing in the United States of America, there is little incentive for health insurers to finance preventative care. The premise is that, as people change jobs and healthcare insurers, the financial benefits of preventative medicine might be enjoyed by organizations other than those that originally funded it.
• Viewed from afar, the citizens of the United States of America are hypochondriacs obsessed by illness. This hypochondria is fueled by a constant barrage of television commercials for prescription drugs containing information that should only really be evaluated by competent medical professionals. Trendy acronyms only exacerbate the obsession - why not become obsessed by health and wellness instead?
• Market forces and human nature are generally inappropriate in healthcare. Physicians are encouraged to treat where treatment is perhaps unnecessary. Pharmaceutical companies need a steady stream of new illnesses, gullible or mercenary physicians and new drugs to keep them in business. Health insurers need to be able to promise nurturing care from cradle to grave and yet be able to deny treatment on all possible occasions.

Now that the smile has been replace by a scowl and you're thinking about shouting or painting a placard, here are some comparisons that will restore your faith in man's inhumanity to man.

• Universal schemes can only provide the greatest good for the greatest number and will spend any and all amounts of money provided
• Private schemes will drop you if it looks as though you might get a long-term illness
• Universal schemes will always treat acute cases first and will generally do these well. less urgent cases may well wait some time for treatment
• Private schemes will treat your acute or less urgent conditions entirely in respect of financial considerations, but will have you back in your car about the same time the anesthesia wears off, often causing you to come back again (with another co-pay) in a couple of days
• Universal schemes often provide unintentional long-term accommodation for the homeless
• Private schemes always use the latest and most expensive treatments irrespective of whether they are superior to proven treatments.
• Universal schemes are often unwilling to adopt new procedures until cost and/or patient benefits have been established

Here is a dirty word:

"Single-Payer"

Actually it's two words, but you get the drift. Most universal or national health schemes operate this policy. Supporters of the status quo in United States health policies consider it blasphemy. It is a prime example of the emotive labeling so apparent in current healthcare discussions.

Single-payer simply means that payment for medicines and treatment comes from a single source. That single source is the organization that operates the health service - almost invariably the government. Pharmaceutical companies and medical practitioners abhor this policy because they are unable to play numerous payers (with differing priorities) off against each other. Instead they have to deal with a single body that has the single objective of balancing cost and patient benefit - more simply known as value for money. The VA health system bureaucracy "sorta-kinda" operates in a similar way to single-payer.
This does mean that many medical practitioners will get less for the work that they do. Pharmaceutical companies will undoubtedly claim that they will be unable to research new treatments. Personally, I can live with this because the physicians that earn substantially less will only be those who have been financially focused in their practices. Pharmaceutical companies will continue to research and develop because that is what they have to do to exist. Maybe these new pressures will force them to be more focused on effective remedies? Am I the only person who wonders whether drug companies develop new products and then look for an illness to treat with it? The objective of a healthcare system is to look after the receivers of that healthcare - not to make a few professionals obscenely wealthy.

The bottom line is that the current healthcare systems (in terms of delivery and outcomes) in the United States of America are ineffectual and probably irreparable in their current form. Federal and state politicians are scared to death of the pharmaceutical lobby and failure to be re-elected (but then I repeat myself). The AMA represents the interests solely of the medical profession and has stood four-square in the way of any proposed initiatives that benefit patients at the expense of their members. I don't think insurance companies care one way or the other because they think they will still get a large slice of the cake whatever happens. When it dawns on them that single-payer may become a reality, they will get the rest of the politicians that the pharmaceutical companies missed.

It should not (and cannot) be beyond the wit of the US Government to take the time to investigate the healthcare schemes that are the most successfully operated in other industrialized countries. Surely, somewhere in this nation, we have officials with the ability to judge and evaluate the best of those and surely we have the expertise to implement such a scheme here.

According to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OEDC), in 2003/2004, per capita health expenditure in the United States of America was $6,120 (15.3% of GDP), life expectancy was 77.5 years and infant deaths, per thousand, were 6.9. During the same period in Japan, per capita health expenditure was $2,249 (8% of GDP), life expectancy was 81.8 years and infant deaths, per thousand, were 2.8.

Here are some final kickers. How can the country that considers itself the most advanced economy in the world, allow its citizens to be denied preventative healthcare because of corporate avarice? How can it allow around 700,000 families each year to bankrupt themselves seeking healthcare? How can it let people die for lack of healthcare?

For those that say government cannot afford universal healthcare, consider this: in 2003 (according to the World Health Organization) the United States government spent more, per capita, on healthcare than each of the governments of the United Kingdom and Sweden. Two countries that each have universal healthcare, the citizens of these countries did not have co-pays and both countries achieve generally better health results than the United States of America can boast.

Personal net expenditure on healthcare would drop significantly under a properly implemented universal scheme and a single payer scheme would have the potential to cut billions of wasted dollars out of administrative costs.

Finally, President Obama's scheme will not work because it does not address the fundamental underlying problems. The supporters of the status quo will gladly watch the percentage of GDP spent on healthcare rise to 20% in the unreasoned belief that the marketplace will deliver effective healthcare and that we already have (of course) the best healthcare in the world. Basically we're screwed!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Steve_D_Russell

Alternative Health Aids For Mental and Physically Crippling Disabilities and Their Associated Pain

2010-08-23T19:22:00.000-07:00

By John Null

Are you tired of spending hundreds if not thousands of dollars a year on prescriptions? For those of who have medical disorders or conditions that require medications, dealing with the stress of; how much it's going to cost? What can my budget afford? Which pharmacy will take my insurance? Fighting with insurance companies over what's covered and what isn't? Does the cheaper generic brand work as well? These are all questions we ask each time you need medication. If you don't have health insurance that provides for medication or have a good prescription plan, the cost of medication is astounding. Sometimes you pay $80.00 or more for just a two week supply and this is for only one prescription. Multiply this by 2, 3 or more and you can see this cost go right out of your budget. Costs like these prevent many folks from even going to the doctor unless it's a medical necessity. As we get older, our financial situation usually becomes a fixed value. The chances of getting out and obtaining supplemental income to help defer some medication costs are unlikely, since you are normally ill to begin with. With the ever increasing cost of medication, many will find this necessary in order to cover their medical expenses. This ultimately defeats the concept of retirement or the purpose of even a dual income to get ahead. The chance of getting work at an older age is less likely therefore leaving many elderly at a disadvantage. Equal to the elderly are the middle class Americans, how many of them have a health insurance policy that will provide carte blanche prescription services? For the young, they must start thinking for the future now. For the old, start looking for alternative methods of treatment for the most common illnesses and even the most serious as well. The term, "Preventative Maintenance" (PM) is the key. It's the same line of thinking used for equipment, your car, lawn mower, house furnace, etc. and it can be just as easily used for the human body. Taking products that help keep our body healthy, eating healthy and exercises are all keys to PM. When the body becomes fatigued, ill or it sustains an injury, the brain does one thing, it sends messages to the bodies chemicals to seek out the damage area and repair it. Broken bones receive more calcium; bruises get new blood, etc. Basically what the body is doing is rejuvenating itself. There's are health products out there that does just that, they rejuvenate the cells of the body and restores them to good health. New products coming in from Asia and Mexico where they are seeing positive results. At this time, the FDA hasn't given some of these products their stamp of approval. Some may say it's a questionable product then, my opinion is that the FDA does not always have everyone's health as its first priority. If FDA does approve a product (which it will likely do but only if it can control which suppliers will sell the product), you can almost take it to the bank the cost will only go up. If it does go down, it will more than likely be due to a generic form of the product being sold and thereby sacrificing the most effective ingredients or processes used to develop the health aid effectiveness that is being revealed through countless cases now. Some health supplements are a powerful blend of polysaccharide peptides derived from a select mixture of rice grains harvested in the Siam Valley of Thailand and Alfa Spirulina from the Pacific Ocean, they combines over 50 antioxidants, second-generation amino acids and potent alpha glycans to target premature aging and build lasting mental and physical energy, vitality and health. Manufacturers use state-of-the-art nanotechnology to bond polysaccharide peptides through hydrolysis, forming concentrated, naturally hydrolyzed alpha glycans. Advanced nanotechnology is the only way to extract these particles and preserve them in powder form. Alpha glycans are tiny nutrients that are easily absorbed by your cells that recognize them as biological super-fuel - nutrients you just can't get in a modern diet. This super-fuel is pumped directly into cellular mitochondria - the power plants of your cells - for a natural energy boost that lasts all day and promotes restful sleep each night. They can also double as a potent antioxidant. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals - dangerous particles that rip through your cells and cellular DNA, causing cell damage, mutation and death. It is this damage that is linked to metabolic disorders like cancer, heart disease, Alzheimer's, stroke, diabetes and all degenerative disease. It feed's your cells at the molecular level, at the same time it protects them from damage, means this amazing functional food supports your body's ability to: • Fight the effects of Syndrome X

• Boost your immune system to fight illness and disease

• Get energy, vitality, mental clarity and focus

• Enhance circulation and brain function

• Target hormonal imbalances and poor sleep

• Fight depression, memory loss and dementia

• Decrease high blood pressure, elevated LDL and triglycerides

• Balance blood sugar levels and improve digestion

• Enhance libido and sexual performance

• Boost metabolic function and increase weight loss

• Fight disease and aging the natural, healthy way What you call aging is really cellular damage, disease or death. Aging, simply put, is the net result of the trillions of cells in your body failing to run at peak efficiency like they did when you were younger. Wrinkles, fatigue, loss of muscle tone, mood swings, weight gain achiness and the afternoon blahs are all signs of pre-mature aging. Lack of focus, elevated blood pressure and cholesterol, hormonal imbalances and poor memory are not normal signs of aging, they are your body telling you it needs nourishment at the cellular level. The symptoms above don't just signal cellular slowdown, they are actually warning signs of impending metabolic disorders. For all but a few, poor cellular function leads to disease. The state of your health is a direct reflection of the health of your Cells, and their ability to produce essential energy to build health and fight disease. What causes cellular aging? Malnourished cells - cells that aren't getting the nutrition they need to fight two things - time and toxins. With time, a nutrient-depleted modern diet, lack of exercise and ever-increasing stress take their toll on cellular health. And when you add exposure to toxins in the air, water and food you consume combined with free radical damage, you have cells that are just barely able to perform vital functions. Certain health products can assist in reducing premature aging and metabolic disorders. They can deliver nano-sized micro-nutrients deliver potent glycol-nutrients, second-generation amino acids and antioxidants at the molecular level - directly to the mitochondria, the power plants of your cells that fuel cellular function, repair and restoration. Are you at risk for premature aging from: Stress - Poor Diet - Frequent illnesses - Lack of exercise - Fatigue, poor memory, mood swings Struggling with metabolic disorders like: ADD/ADHD - Alzheimer's - Arthritis - Autism Cancer - Cardiovascular Disease Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - Depression - Diabetes Digestive disorders - Down's Syndrome - Fatigue Fibromyalgia - High Blood Pressure High Cholesterol - Impotence - Kidney Disorders Lupus - Memory Loss/Dementia - Mood Disorders Multiple Sclerosis - Nerve Damage - Neuropathy Obesity - Parkinson's - Rheumatoid Arthritis Rosacea - Stroke Are you ready to change your old routine and reach out for something new?

About the Author :

http://www.enzacta.com

5 Reasons You Should Get Into Health and Fitness

2010-08-22T20:05:00.000-07:00

Shawn Derrick

Ever day-dream about how exactly you might get into health and fitness? That identical thought has occurred to a lot of us.Lots of individuals have had the exact same idea Some have even taken action to help make that happen. Most just think it over for a while, then dismiss the thought. It is sometimes because they don't know the place to start. In other cases it's because there are many unknowns. Still other times it's as they do not know the various requirements.

Hmm. Are they really legitimate reasons? Was the positive side included? Was that balanced? Did we consider the "pro" side or just the "con" side? Before we let the negatives rule, the positives deserve a reasonable hearing. Let's consider 5 reasons for you to get into health and fitness, just to decide if any of them fit here.

First, You will have a lot more energy. Sure, I realize your objection that getting into health and fitness. Yes, that's a valid observation, but look at it this way, the more energy you have the more time you will have to do the things that are important to you. And moreover, you will need to consider that if we are healthy and fit, we will live long and vibrant lives.

Second, you do not have to nap all the time. The chief reason for that is that you are just not getting the right nutrients in your body.. Plus not getting enough exercise.

Third, You will have less fat on the body.. As well as You will gain more muscle mass!

Fourth, People will look at you in envy!

And Fifth, You will feel good about every aspect of life in general

Once you've had an opportunity to go over the reasons, and think about them, you'll see that a pretty good case can be made in favor of getting into health and fitness.

Think about it. Maybe you really should get into health and fitness.

After you look at all of the reasons and evaluate them, you'll have to admit that a very compelling case can be made for beginning to consider how to get into health and fitness.

Just consider it. Maybe, just maybe, you truly, in all seriousness, should really get into health and fitness.

Shawn has been writing articles for nearly 3 years. Come visit his latest website over at www.belkinsurgeprotectorhq.com which helps people find the best belkin surge protector to protect their home and their electronic equipment.

Oral Sex Increases Head and Neck Cancer Risk

2010-08-21T19:21:00.000-07:00

Oral Sex Increases Head and Neck Cancer Risk

By Aryanto L Efrayim

Head and neck cancer may not be as popular as other types of cancers. But the number of cancer patients is increased associated with virus spread through oral sex.

The doctors recommend for young men and women to make the protection of the neck and head cancer through vaccination.

This Immunization is trying to protect people from viruses that are transmitted through sexual activity before they became sexually active.

Although overall head and neck cancer experienced a slight decrease in recent years, but for certain cases such as oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) are increases sharply, especially in some developed countries.

In the British Medical Journal report, the scientists revealed that this increase seems to be linked to cancer caused by human papillomavirus (HPV).

Head and neck cancer is a cancer of the sixth most common in men and women, up to now approximately 640,000 new cases occur each year worldwide.

Sexual transmission of HPV, mainly through orogenital sexual intercourse (oral sex) might be the reason for the increased incidence of oropharyngeal carcinoma associated with HPV.

In a recent study in the United States has obtained that cancer cases associated with HPV was reported to increase about 60-80 percent, whereas a few decades ago was found only about 40 percent.

The head and neck cancer patient associated with HPV are experienced among young age and among workers.

Head and neck cancer are less deadly than other cancers associated with smoking or drinking alcohol. So there is a possibility the patient may live longer with the support of physical and psychological treatment.

Two vaccines currently made now are Cervarix by GlaxoSmithKline, and Gardasil made by Merck & Co., is claimed to prevent HPV that also the cause of almost all cervical cancer cases.

We should see more evidence exists to evaluate the effectiveness of this vaccine for men, because the cases are increasing.

About the Author :

How can a man get a woman hot and wanting you? How can you get her so worked into a frenzy that she will be begging you to do wild and crazy things to her all night long?

==› http://SexLastLonger.Blogspot.Com

Doctors Are Not There to Keep Us Healthy - They Are There to Treat Our Sickness

2010-08-20T20:03:00.000-07:00

Carolyn Hansen

During the recent era of health/wellness/sickness care one point has emerged clearly and that point is that each of us will have to chart our own course to ensure our good health. We, not doctors and the medical system should be in the driver's seat, which means we need to reclaim and practice a level of self-responsibility toward our own health, wellness and longevity.

Over the past 50-60 years responsibility for our health/sickness was solely the domain of doctors and the medical establishment. Those days are coming to an end as this is not the best way to enhance our drive to stay healthy and well. It has enforced a vulnerability, helplessness and lack of accountability that has done more harm than good for our overall well-being.

In our modern world rife with inactivity and low quality processed foods that foster sickness and poor health there has never been so much indisputable scientific proof to support and back what we humans has always known to be true. That proper exercise and good nutrition are vital components of a well, active, strong, vibrant healthy life.

If our lifestyle habits include proper exercise and as few processed 'dead' foods as possible our wellness 'bank account' has a good balance. This gives us a good reserve when we get a cold or flu or especially if we are faced with a more serious health issue. But if you lead a no exercise lifestyle, eat a lot of processed foods and believe that your health is out of your control then you have some work to do.

This new form of preventative medicine strives to keep healthy people well and works at controlling or reversing health problems that are already present before they become more serious. The prescription for this goal is not in any drug or medical procedure and no doctor can give it to you.

It comes with accepting and understanding that good health is not just an accident. It is not something you say when you get to mid-life "So far so good" with fingers crossed. Good health requires your active participation and ongoing input in two main areas.

These areas are number one - a proper exercise program that contains mostly strength training exercise. This directly works the muscular system so that 'growth and repair' hormones are stimulated right down at cellular level sweeping away old worn out cells and tissues and replacing them with new younger healthier and stronger ones.

Only strength training exercise can do this so keep your low intensity repetitive endurance activities for your leisure time. Your proper exercise program needs to be done first and foremost otherwise you will not get the health benefits that will really make a difference.

Number two is to get rid of as much processed food from your diet as possible. Replace it with natural whole unprocessed foods cooked from scratch. Anything without a food label is good as it has not been mucked around with by man.

Those are the two main areas we all have easy access to and can implement to avoid becoming another statistic of the killer diseases that are epidemic in our modern sedentary world. But it certainly does not have to be this way - we each have the power to protect ourselves and our families and the responsibility for this lies at our door.

Discover how to create a leaner, firmer, younger looking body when you speed up your metabolism in 30 days or less. Carolyn Hansen is a certified fitness expert and fitness center owner whose goal is to show you how to burn fat - without starving yourself. By combining strength training exercise with the right foods that will increase your metabolic rate, decrease food cravings and get and keep you trim. Visit http://HotMetabolism.com

Carolyn has just released her latest healthy eating system designed to assist people with achieving their fat loss goals and restoring true health one meal at a time. This program will make you feel a million bucks so, come visit http://21DaysToHealthyEating.com to find out how it is done.

More Exercise--More Weight Loss

2010-08-19T19:19:00.000-07:00

- By: Rick Carpenter

Description :

How do you find the right weight loss program? Fad diets might work short term, but long term, they might do more harm than good. Healthy weight loss comes by eating the right foods, and adding the right exercise program to help burn off calories.

There are too many foods that taste good, but cause weight gain. Have you ever noticed that the more you eat certain foods, the more you want them. Losing weight would be easy if the was an easy way of breaking the cycle. Once you start eating the right foods, your body will start craving them. For example, eating sugar causes your body to crave sugar. To drink pop, your body will crave pop.

Once you begin eating good foods, your body will not want to be without them. The same is true for exercise. You do not want to be a fanatic for exercise like some people, but once you get started with some type of exercise program, your body will miss it, when you do not do it.

That is why you want to start exercising every day, even if it is just some stretching exercises, or a short walk. Your body will feel better once you start an exercise program. You will feel better, your mind will be clearer, you will have more energy, and you will start losing weight.

As long as you have a goal and keep yourself motivated, you can do almost anything. Your body will respond to your attitude. If you have positive thoughts towards losing weight and being healthier, then you will win the battle. If you have a defeatist attitude, then you will probably give up when things get too tough.

Making the right changes in your life should be easy, if you are serious about being healthier. If you want to feel good then change your mental attitude.

There was a time when it was normal for children to spend part of their day outside playing. But now with so many mothers working, and the fear of children being outside alone, along with TV and computer games, a lot of children never leave the house.

Our children are growing up without being very physical fit. With that type of upbringing, it might be difficult changing your attitudes toward healthy weight loss programs. If you have never really exercised, then you have never known the exhilarating feeling you get from exercise.

Your whole life can be changed by finding an exercise program that you like. If you have not been exercising, then you should start slowly. Try to do something every day, and slowly increase what you do. Experiment with different exercises, so you can find the ones that fit you. You may have heard 'no pain, no gain' but in order to keep your exercise program going without quitting, you need to find one that you enjoy.

Walking is one form of exercise that you should always do. Exercise can be hard, but you can choose to enjoy it, and no matter what you do, remember to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water. This should be a total lifestyle change to give you a new healthy life.

Author Resource : Rick Carpenter---Exercising For Healthy Weight Loss

Mr Miyagi - Pat Morita Told Us All "Don't Forget to Breathe

2010-08-18T20:02:00.000-07:00

Robert Britt

If you watch a little kid try to pick up something heavy usually you will see them holding their breath and scrunching their whole face up. It's a serious business and they are communicating through their actions. Usually they will also take a peek to see who is watching them, and this doesn't really change too much when you go to the gym and watch the adults lifting. I'm often amazed by the people who neglect the advice of the karate master, Mr. Miyagi.

You know Mr. Miyagi, actor Pat Morita (sorry Jackie Chan, but Pat will always be the "real" Mr. Miyagi to most of us.) He was the guy who said to Daniel-San, "Don't forget to breath. Is very important." And this really is a life lesson. Without breathing life would be very short, and withot proper breathing during workouts and cardio, you could very well hurt yourself. Holding your breath during the concentric portion of your lift puts a great deal of stress on your body.

People have been known to get dizzy, have nosebleeds, and in extreme cases brain aneurisms have listed this stressing of the body as a possible cause. So what should you be doing? Anytime you are doing the concentric part of the lift you should be exhaling. The concentric part, for those who may be confused or just want clarification, is when you are tightening muscles. This is when you are pushing up on a bench press or a shoulder press, or pulling on a back exercise. It is also when you are pushing on a leg press or in the 'standing' part of a squat.

The opposite portion of the lift is called the eccentric portion and at that point you should be inhaling. To clarify again, this is when the weight is approaching your body on a bench or shoulder press, or when the weights are moving away from you on a back exercise. This is also the portion when your fanny is heading for the ground on a squat.

Another way to look at this is that you are exhaling when you working and inhale on the release portion. Hopefully this makes it crystal clear.

Don't take your breathing for granted and think about this whenever you are lifting. I will write more on breathing for running and cardio for a future article. As always any question you have, I would be happy to address in future articles as well. Stay healthy and stay happy!

The right food choices will make a huge impact on your quest for better health. My Ideal Diet

For more health and fitness info: All Health Network

Walking For Exercise - What Could Be Better?

2010-08-17T19:17:00.000-07:00

- By: Hamish Hayward

Description :

Many people shy away from exercise as they imagine that it will be too taxing for them. It's as if they think that they need to already be fit before they can get in shape. It's hardly surprising that many of us tend to associate getting in shape with high energy fitness routines and getting hot, sweaty and out of breath.

Using similar logic, many people find it hard to imagine that a low intensity, low impact, low injury risk workout could deliver very significant health benefits, help you to lose weight and get in much better shape. However, that's precisely what walking - an activity which requires no special equipment, training or expertise, and one which we all do on a daily basis - can do for you if you do it on a regular basis.

When you look at the health benefits that walking can deliver, your feelings of disbelief are only likely to increase. Walking on a regular basis can help to improve the operating efficiency of the lungs and also lower the risk of heart disease and stroke. It can help to lower your blood pressure. It can help to fight depression, boost your energy levels and help you to sleep better at night. It can help to reduce the risk of certain forms of cancer. Recent studies in the UK even seem to suggest that it may be effective in fighting Alzheimer's disease. It will certainly help you to lose weight and get in shape.

Looking at that list you would be forgiven for thinking that it was an advert for some expensive new dietary supplement or even the latest miracle drug. It's hardly surprising that it can be difficult to credit. It's also worth mentioning that - apart from a comfy pair of shoes - you can start your walking exercise program without any specialized equipment. Neither will it cost you any money - there are no expensive gym membership fees to pay each month. You also have the convenience of being able to fit it into your day whenever it suits you best.

Health professionals seem to agree that we should be targeting 10,000 steps a day on a regular basis in order to get the health benefits previously discussed. That equivalent to just under five miles for most people, although it depends upon your stride length somewhat. It sounds like a fair old distance - but it's easier to achieve than you think. Walk to work and leave the car at home. Take the stairs instead of the lift. Get off the bus a stop before your destination and walk the last leg of your journey. These are just a few examples of ways to increase your daily step count - there are plenty more, and they all add up.

If you are over forty years old, if you have any medical conditions, or if you just haven't exercised for some time, then it would be wise to seek your doctor's advice and opinion before you launch any new fitness regime. However, as long as you start off slowly and build up over time, walking will improve your health and fitness levels. More importantly, you will both look and feel much better.

Author Resource : Discover how you can maximise the efficiency of your walking exercise routine using Fit flops exercise footwear

The Secret to Perfect Health

2010-08-16T20:01:00.000-07:00

Jon Staiger

I am so happy and grateful now that I have discovered the secret to perfect health.

What is the secret?

It's all about your state of mind.

I remember being in high school.

I was a 3 sport athlete.

Between football, hockey, and baseball I managed to injure just about every area of my body pretty seriously over the course of my career.

Do you know that even after your body heals, injuries can stay with you emotionally?

What I mean by that is you pull a muscle and your body will heal all by itself.

That's what it is designed to do.

However, if you hang on to that injury emotionally, it will never heal to perfection.

It will stay with you for the rest of your life.

Well when I discovered the power of the human mind and our ability to focus our thoughts on anything we desire to achieve a specific result, I started to heal my body to perfection.

The results I have achieved are an absolute miracle!

Anybody can do it.

All you have to do is recognize that you are holding onto destructive patterns of emotional thought that are limiting your body's natural ability to heal.

Then shift your awareness to focus on health.

Believe that your body will heal to perfection and it will.

It's really that simple.

Our beliefs create our experience in life.

If you believe that you are getting old and your body is deteriorating, it will.

If you believe that you are getting younger, and your body is progressively becoming stronger, healthier, and more fully functioning to perfection, then this will be your experience.

I absolutely promise you that this is the case.

I have experienced this in my own life and wish to share this wonderful news with the entire world!

My name is Jon Staiger and I aspire to help people create the life of their dreams.

You can learn more here: http://howtogetrichandliveacharmedlife.com/

Weight and Fitness

2010-08-15T19:16:00.000-07:00

By : Adrian Theophilus

How to loose stubborn belly fat, get flat sexy six pack abs the right way!

Mike Geary the author of the Truth About Six Pack Abs is no.1 ranked Abdominals eBook in the world, with over 276,000 readers in 163 countries to date.

The author of the eBook Truth About Six Pack Abs has also published an online fitness newsletter, Lean Body Fitness Secrets, that is enjoyed by over 710,000 subscribers in 170 countries.

The Truth About belly fat:

Lets be honest with our selves are you not tired of doing crunches and sit-ups with little to no results. Taking so called "Fat Burner" pills that are just scams or even time consuming cardio workouts with all the aches and pains but still the belly fat.

Well this is your answer to all those time wasters, this is the real truth about six pack abs and how to get it. The truth of how to loose your belly fat and keep it of forever.

The eBook program can be applied to either fat loss or muscle building, whatever your desire is. However the information in this eBook is to deal with the main problems that 99% of people are facing. This problem is loosing the stomach fat that is covering up your Abs.

The Truth About this product is that it has been developed with beginner, intermediate and advanced levels of progressions. Increasing your Metabolism and Stimulating The Fat-Burning Hormones are the best exercises regardless of gender.

Get on your way to a healthier, better tomorrow. Your best workout yet.

About the Author :

For more information and a video presentation about this product go to or just click on the link http://www.mrmarketr.net/fatloss.php

Would You Believe That Milk Actually Helps You To Burn Fat? Dig These Amazing Facts

2010-08-14T19:59:00.000-07:00

Emma J Frost

When you were kids, you were told to drink milk for staying fit and strong. But who ever heard of this one? Drinking milk gets you thinner! A recent research revealed that drinking up cow's milk following weight lifting sessions will help burn fat. It was a university study actually and published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. It identified that milk is one of the perfect post-workout drinks or muscle juices.

Following a hard workout session, just 2 cups of pure low-fat cow's milk staves off your pesky pounds within a minimal period of 3 months. This can also contribute in building your muscle mass, while promoting excellent muscle growth. This study also revealed great results for other drinks like soy drinks or high-carb drinks (such as sports drinks). But it concluded that these are no match for the fat burning results that cow's milk offers.

MILK ISN'T YOUR FAVORITE DRINK? CHOOSE THESE CLOSE ALTER NAVIES!

Scientists found that these are the best substitutes to cow's milk:

Almond milk
Comes with calcium - an essential element for bone-building. This milk is great for putting in the sweet touch into protein shakes. There are 2 grams of protein in every 8 oz. of almond mild.

Soy milk
Offers you high protein properties. Your muscles will need grave repairs and proper rest following a workout. Most protein-rich drinks or foods help you get there. Prepare your shake using such power-packed alternative. You could also drink straight, though.

Oat milk
Comes with high amount of fiber. Some studies showed that diets that have high fiber keeps us regular and at the same time helps us metabolize foods much faster. This adds much more energy as well.

Goat's milk
Brings heaps of whey. And that's the main ingredient in protein! This tonic thus helps you repair or restore your muscles. A superb post-workout snack it is! This milk comes with salty flavor, which could be an excellent surprise within cheeses. Most of all, this milk contains the "good fats," like cow's milk, which are essential for maintaining the balance of the body's nutrition.

Rice milk
Pretty low in terms of protein properties. Still, it's an excellent source of healthy carbs and adds a superb "boost" to the pre-workout shake (prior to your tackling a cardio session).

Emma loves to write. She's been writing articles online for nearly 3 years. Check out the devilbiss air compressor web site which reviews and lists the best devilbiss air compressor.

Fitness Bikes; They are Not Only Clothing Racks

2010-08-13T19:11:00.000-07:00

- By: Lance Phillips

Description : In the field of home fitness equipment, few pieces of equipment provide you with the perfectly rounded workout a fitness bike can. Also good cardio exercise and aerobic exercises fitness bikes offer, you can find not as much stress in your knees; that's terrific news for somebody with knee problems who might have been having hassle finding an cardio workout that didn't over-stress their knees. Persons with lower back struggles will find that fitness bikes will strengthen the muscles required to boost back support - the leg and thigh muscles are improved together with the hamstrings.

The Difference Among Stationary And Moving Fitness Bikes

To illuminate the topic of this informative article, the fitness bikes being described are stationary bikes, often known as exercise bikes. A search for fitness bikes will present itself a perplexing mixture of fitness bikes described as much like racing or road bikes, and stationary bikes. To become clear, this short article is about the stationary kind you might see in a fitness center.

Upright and Recumbent Fitness Bikes

The trendy fitness bike is not an identical type you might have seen within your aunts basement with her pantyhose draped over it. Todays fitness cycles is often upright or recumbent. Upright is the sort nearly everybody consider when they contemplate of a stationary bike. Bike processed along with the seat, pedals, and one wheel on the front. Pretty simple. Along with the recumbent bike, you are seated with your legs out in front rather than below your body. The idea following this arrangement is that it is more comfortable, yet still gives a great exercise. Exercise bikes are available with screens that simulate an authentic bike competition to boost your exercise. In case you don't want to spring for goodies like that, it is easy to always put in front of your TV, or blast your favorite music. Anything that motivates you and continues you going.

Boost Workout As You Develop Stronger

To improve the usefulness of the workout, it's always necessary to enhance the weight to your pedaling. This is executed in various methods. The old fashion (but not at all out-of-date) technique is just to press a roller against the tire. To improve weight you push the roller tighter touching the tire. Newer fitness magnetic bikes utilize magnetism so as to add digital (but very true feeling) opposition. Anyway accomplishes a similar effect, you ought to pedal harder, ever-increasing the advantage of the exercise.

The Nurture And Feeding Of Your Fitness Bike

What ever method of exercise bike you select, whether an upright fitness bike or a recumbent fitness bike, to be sure it supplies you with years of trouble free exercises, wipe it all over behind an outstanding exercise. Guard it turning along with good quality value bike lube, and keep damp clothing off of it!

Author Resource : Fitness bikes are a great way to stay in shape!

Stress Relaxation Techniques - Bring About Change Through Mind Body Relaxation!

2010-08-11T19:09:00.000-07:00

By: Paul Summers

Description :

Countless millions of people in our busy world today suffer from stress, depression or anxiety related illnesses. Although awareness of these problems is better now than it has been, it can still be difficult for someone suffering to make their family, friends or colleagues truly understand what they are going through. For example, a broken leg is easily visible - a broken mind is not so easy for outsiders to perceive. And while painkillers are often necessary to deal with physical health problems, it makes sense to consider natural stress relaxation techniques as an alternative to medication for mental health issues.

Mind body relaxation is such a technique that can effectively lower the levels of stress, depression, pain and anger you feel. Many people that have applied these techniques have been able to fore go costly medications, pain relievers, and expensive long-term therapy.

There will be some effort required to see results, and you must want to learn how to treat the root cause of your problems, not merely the symptoms. However, as stress relaxation techniques go, mind body relaxation is easy once you know how to apply it properly.

It works by using imagery psychology. Basically, you listen to a soundtrack split into two parts. The first being an imagery narration, the second part the soundtrack, which incorporates musical and audio elements to enhance your mind's ability to rapidly enter a deep state of relaxation. Once in this state, the narration creates an exponentially more powerful positive effect.

Stress and depression causes your focus to become too narrow, making it impossible for you to have the necessary resources to control your temper, and lower your stress levels. When you have a great deal of stress, making the right choices becomes very difficult, since you are more prone to snap decisions than at any other time.

When you simply use medication to treat stress, you are overlooking the real reasons behind your problems in the first place. This means that your pain, stress, and depression are still there, and when the medicine wears off, your problems remain. The mind body relaxation method enables you to treat the reasons behind the problems you face, allowing you to learn how to avoid them in the future.

Mind body relaxation can also benefit your physical, not just mental, health by:-

1. Lowering the risk of major illness, since stress has been linked to cancer, diabetes, and heart disease

2. Lowering the impact of everyday illnesses, like colds and flu, as stress leaves you vulnerable to these

3. Giving you a better mood, leading to increased confidence and a greater sense of security in all aspects of your life

4. Improving relationships with others, since you will be able to adjust better, feel better, and feel generally happier

5. Giving you the ability to achieve more in a shorter amount of time, leading to improved productivity.

Stress relaxation techniques will provide the tools to effectively deal with depression, stress, and anxiety. Mind body relaxation is an option worth serious consideration in order to give you back your life, as an alternative to medications, and their potential side effects.

source: stress relaxation techniques

We Can Look and Feel Better

2009-10-23T01:43:00.000-07:00

By: Ronald Godlewski

Most of us have the strong desire to look and feel better. Looking and feeling great is something that many people believe is a luxury that they cannot afford or enjoy. This simply isn't true. Looking and feeling better does not happen by chance. Those people who do look and feel great are that way because they have taken some positive action. What many of us don't know is that the positive actions of looking and feeling better are both easy and simple.

If you really want to look and feel great, stop and take inventory of your current situation – after all you don't know which direction to head if you don't know from where you are starting. Unhealthy habits, including smoking or excessive drinking of alcohol, should be stopped. You already knew that one! But did you also note your personal stress level? What about the amount of rest you get each night? While everyone's situation is unique to them, many of us share some common themes – unhealthy habits, high levels of stress, and not enough rest to rejuvenate the body.

The night shift is a killer! Studies have shown that people who work at night, and sleep during the day don't live as long as people who work during the day and sleep at night. One possible reason is that Night Owls get even less deep rejuvenating sleep than those who try to sleep at night and work during the day. You may have also heard of depression occurring during the long winter months when daylight hours are at their lowest levels. While sunlight can be harmful, we all need some sunshine in our lives. Sunshine causes the brain to produce serotonin, and serotonin has a positive impact on our moods and energy levels.

After taking inventory and eliminating the unhealthy habits it is time to detoxify your body. You detoxify your body to remove all of the harmful and dangerous toxins that you have built up over your lifetime. There are a number of products, such as those offered by Life Force International, that are designed to cleanse the colon and detoxify the body that you should strongly consider. By detoxifying your body, you will begin to lay the foundation for looking and feeling great for the long term.

Next, examine what you put into your body. You may find the need to make some lifestyle changes. Drink more water, and try to drink less or better yet, eliminate sodas (carbonated beverages) and caffeinated beverages. Our bodies are made up of more than 70% water. Your body needs clear water, no teas, to cleanse and purify itself. Make sure you are drinking eight to ten glasses of water daily. Avoid fried foods and all types of junk food. Eating baked, broiled, or steamed meats and vegetables, as well as fruits, nuts, and grains will build on the foundation you started by detoxifying.

To continue your journey of looking and feeling better, make sure that you aren't allowing your body to go into starvation mode during the day. You should be eating six smaller meals each day instead of the customary three large meals. Or for some of us, eating the one really large meal when we get home from a stressful day at work and stand in front of the refrigerator gorging on whatever is easiest to grab! Studies have shown eating smaller meals throughout the day – meal snacking – leads to a 25% increase in energy and ability to concentrate. Remember that your body already goes into starvation mode each night, since you are literally fasting for twelve to thirteen hours or more between your evening meal and breakfast the following morning. This is one of the primary reasons why breakfast is one of the most important meals. Taking a nutritional supplement first thing in the morning, such as the liquid nutritional supplement called Body Balance from Life Force International, is a great way to ensure your body gets what it needs quickly.

Start an exercise regimen. This doesn't mean that you have to become a body builder, run a triathlon, or swim the English Channel each day. A brisk twenty to thirty minute walk each evening will suffice. As long as you are getting at least thirty minutes of continuous movement each and every day, you will be building on the foundation started by detoxifying your body and eating right. For even better benefits to your personal well being, do not count the time spent at work, on your feet, as movement. While it may count in terms of keeping your body in shape, a thirty minute exercise period each day is healthy for the body and the mind – it relieves stress and releases endorphins that make you feel happy and well.

Finally, you should take a good nutritional supplement, as well as a multi vitamin each day. Life Force Internationals' Body Balance is a great nutritional supplement that is highly recommended. Body Balance is a liquid supplement which means a high absorption rate by your body.

When you make these easy and really simple changes, it won't be long before you start seeing and feeling great results. Not only will you look better and feel great, but you will find that you sleep better, and that you also have a more positive outlook on life.

Ronald Godlewski has successfully founded and run several businesses and is currently working with Life Force International. For more information on Liquid Nutritional Supplements and to receive a FREE Quart of Body Balance visit http://www.pillfreesupplements.com/

Feel Stressed Out? Try A Spa Visit

2009-10-22T01:41:00.000-07:00

By: Gary Toh

If you are like most people, you are probably stressed out now. Be it work, family, money, parenting or relationships, stress is becoming a big part of our daily lives. No wonder more and more people (especially women) are interesting in getting away and unwinding in a relaxing spa. If you have not tried it before, it may be time to think about it now.

Why go to a spa? Because it is a good way to unwind and relax and get rid of stress. If you don't have a proper way to unwind that stress within you, the negative results could be serious. A spa is one way of relaxing but of course it is not the only way. It just happens to be a good way that you might want to consider.

But there are certain things you need to know about spas before you go to one. For example, spas come in different formats :

1. specialized spas that are focused on beauty, like the ones that offer hair care services, nails, and tanning.

2. full service spas that not only offer nail care and hair care, but also body massages, body wraps, acupuncture, and many other services available for you to choose from. A full service spa is a better option and highly recommended.

Next thing you need to know is about making an appointment with your spa. You can make your appointment alone or with a group of friends if you want to. Going with a group of friends can be a fun and exciting, yet relaxing adventure. But if you would like to go alone, this is not bad idea too. Some women like to be alone so that they can literally forget all about their daily stress. If you are one of them, then going it alone may be a better idea.

Besides helping you unwind from stress, a spa visit may also help improve your appearance too. Many women go to spas to get their hair or their nails done at the same time. This all-in-one service may also include plastic surgery but you must be aware of the risks here since some of these practitioners are not licensed to perform such surgeries.

Another factor to consider is the cost of a spa visit. There are some spas where you can to pay for each service that you would like use. There are also others who will allow you to simply buy a day pass. You may also want to research each local spa that you have access to online. Make sure that you look at pictures because you want to visit a spa that has a comfortable and inviting atmosphere.

To recap, a spa visit is a great stress reliever. It may not necessarily solve your problems but it can be a life saver because stress is a big killer. Diseases associated with stress are getting more and more serious these days. Once you are more relaxed, you become more calm and your thinking will get clearer too. That's how you can think of solutions to solve all your problems too.

Gary T is the owner of http://www.blogbelle.com/, a site dedicated to cosmetic and restorative plastic surgery. Visit this beauty blog for tips and guide on how to look good again.

Staying Healthy In An Unhealthy World

2009-10-21T01:39:00.000-07:00

By: Adrian Adams

For the sake of yourself and everyone you love, it is a good idea to stay healthy. You can avoid financial debt caused by medical problems. You can avoid dying at an unnecessarily early age. Best of all, you can generally feel more energetic and mentally alert. But, it is often a great challenge to stay healthy. We live in a world that makes it easy to be unhealthy. There are certain habits that you should attempt to break. It may go against all popular notions, but you will be a better person if you are able to break these habits.

There are two parts of healthiness: physical activity, and diet. First, you should adjust your physical activity. In many countries, especially the USA, it is standard for people to drive everywhere they go. It is unfortunate that the modern lifestyle evolved in this way, because there are certainly better alternatives. When you spend half an hour driving somewhere, you do untold damages to not only your own health, but also the health of the environment. For under $1000, you can get an extremely nice bike with all of the supplies you need to make repairs for the next several years. After that, you're set. No gas, no insurance. Biking gets you where you're going fast, and gives you a nice workout.

Once you've added some physical activity to your day to day life, you need to adjust your diet to fit this activity. You should cut back on things like soda and fast food. Instead of having it every day, just have a little bit every weekend. Or, quit entirely. Add healthy things to your diet. You should always eat plenty of fruit, as it contains sugars, vitamins, minerals, and various other components that will give you health and energy. Make sure you eat plenty of complex carbohydrates, included in whole grain and oats. There is no such thing as a perfect diet, as it will be different with every single person, depending on their body and their exercise habits. But instead of settling for convenience, test your body to see exactly what you need to be healthy.

It can be a challenge to make lifestyle changes like these. It will take a lot of willpower. However, as long as you keep your ultimate goal in mind, you should be able to persevere. Just remember that your life is at stake.

For more good health info, visit http://www.healthtimes2.com/

Surviving Tragedy

2009-10-20T01:37:00.000-07:00

By: Dr. Randy Wysong

The loss of loved ones is inevitable. The tragedy is not so much for the one who has passed as it is for those who remain and suffer guilt, regrets and loneliness.

There is no adequate way to prepare for and no way to escape tragedy other than to die before anyone close to you does or be a recluse and not permit close relationships. However, close, loving relationships are a wonderful part of life. Perhaps the pain we feel from the loss of a loved one is to teach us the very meaning of life, love, and to treat it well when we have it.

But everything should be in measure. To throw oneself totally into another person and lose self and independence is a formula for disaster. When the loved one is gone, meaning can be lost which in turn can jeopardize health and life. Love well, but always keep a part of yourself that can survive in the absence of the loved one.

Rejection by someone you love can bring almost the identical pain and suffering as losing someone to death. It can be even worse since the lost person’s presence continues as a constant reminder. The wound is irritated, scraped, reopened again and again.

The best way to survive tragedy is to plan for it. For one thing, if you are self-developing, as this book is encouraging you to do, you will have an independent life that you can fall back on. But also know beforehand that there will be no quick or easy healing. Pain and sorrow are part of the healing process. Do not assume life is ending or that the acute pain will remain forever.

Think of a tragic loss like receiving a deep knife wound to the brain. First there is the sharp and excruciating pain (for this metaphor forget that brain tissue has no pain receptors). Then there will be less, but more chronic pain. Brain/heart healing has inevitable ups and downs. Grieving is like any other wound. It can be reopened (like stubbing a toe on the mend) by a memory, a song, a visit or acquaintance and then re-closed. The further the distance in time from the event, the more quickly the wound re-heals when re-injured.

With more time (usually at least two years) the wound closes more completely. Once the ‘scar’ is in place, the pain is duller and continues to fade. Life becomes livable again even though the scar is never totally gone.

This natural healing process, in which time is the most essential element, is a reality all of us must understand to survive well through such an ordeal. The pain you feel is not unique and is not the most anyone has endured. Give yourself time to heal and do smart things that will speed the process and ease the suffering.

That is easy to say, almost impossible to understand or implement when tragedy strikes. During the healing stages you must force yourself to do certain things. Do them not because it is what you feel like doing (you won’t) but because it is necessary for your survival. Exercise, social contact, rest and good nutrition are essential. These are the factors your mind needs as building blocks for the healing process. Do not let your healthy routine stop. You need to buy time and the best currency is to continue with smart living.

Becoming active in a cause that helps others, or one relevant to the loss – Mothers Against Drunk Driving and the America’s Most Wanted television program are two such examples – can speed the healing process by distracting, forcing you to think outside of yourself to the feelings and needs of others, and gives that all important sense of control and purpose.

Determine now, before tragedy strikes, that you will do these healthy and interpersonal things to heal whether or not you feel like it.

People who stop eating and shut themselves in their room to mourn only delay healing and may even create life-threatening disease. The mind-body connection is very real. If you give up and wish death, your body listens. That is why so many people fall victim to serious illness and even die close in time to the loss of a loved one. Although you may feel like giving up, others love and need you. You have a responsibility to them and to yourself to treat your gift of life with the respect it deserves.

Tragedy is a universal and shared human experience. For those of you who are enduring personal tragedy, the heart of the rest of humanity aches for you and wishes for your speedy recovery. For those not experiencing a loss, love well while there is opportunity so there can be no regrets.

For further reading, or for more information about, Dr Wysong and the Wysong Corporation please visit www.wysong.net or write to wysong@wysong.net. For resources on healthier foods for people including snacks, and breakfast cereals please visit www.cerealwysong.com. Dr. Wysong: A former veterinary clinician and surgeon, college instructor in human anatomy, physiology and the origin of life, inventor of numerous medical, surgical, nutritional, athletic and fitness products and devices, research director for the present company by his name and founder of the philanthropic Wysong Institute. http://www.wysong.net. Also check out http://www.cerealwysong.com.

How to Use Water for Natural Stress and Pain Relief

2009-10-19T01:34:00.000-07:00

By: Jennifer Kays

We all experience some form of stress in our lives. Clinically, stress is a negative element that can threaten our physical and emotional health. One form of stress can diminish our resistance to other forms of stress. Therefore, stress seems to take on a momentum or it's own i.e. stress can cause more stress. When our healthy resistance, i.e. our immune system, begins to break down under too much stress, physical damage and disease results. In addition to physical stress e.g. sore muscles, pain, aches, tension, overexertion, exercise and inactivity that causes back pain, minor strains and sprains, we also experience emotional stress as well. Emotional stress can come from many sources. Emotional stress, as we know, comes from discord in our work and personal relationships, economic pressure, loss, grief, anger, fear, etc. Over time, stress actually builds up toxic deposits in our cells. Stress can create physical pain and chronic fatigue that leaves us without energy or rest, leaving us accident prone and effects our emotional and cognitive abilities leading to even more stress. Again, stress builds upon itself and causes a vicious cycle. Our lives can be charted in a energy wave pattern with healthy activity being at the high point of the wave and rest being at the lower point of the wave. If one phase suffers, it effects the other phase. Our energy wave pattern becomes almost flat. We then experience restlessness, lack of energy, depression, insomnia, muscles tension, less frustration tolerance, exaggeration of emotional reaction e.g. constant anger of a feeling of our wanting to cry constantly. This in turn strains our work and personal relationship and our relationship with ourselves. Sleep and relaxation interrupts this vicious cycle of stress and restore a healthy energy wave pattern of activity and rest which interrupts stress building on itself and causing us to experience emotional and physical distress. Water can play a vital natural role in helping us experience the rest and relaxation we need to end the cycle of stress and pain we are experiencing.

Our natural, innate relationship with water is both primordial and present. We live in water for months before we are born. Our bodies are composed of a large amount of water. We could say that we are water. We all know the natural attraction we have to creeks, lakes, and the ocean. Although not always in our conscious awareness, we instinctively "know" that water is vital and "alive". All our physical, intellectual, and emotional functions are modalities of water functions. Water provides all living things/beings with a flow of nutrients as well as a means of elimination. All living forms exist within the Earth's great hydrosystem. Water is the origin and present source of all life. In a full hot bath we become surrounded by water, the source of all life. This stimulates our primordial security feelings and responses and provides us with comfort, relaxation, and pleasure. Heated water relaxes our muscle tension that restricts fluid and energy flow. The magnetic fields of our nervous system flow through the surrounding water malecules. We experience the profound and relieving effects of water's releasing us from stress and pain.

We can turn our bath into a therapeutic anti-stress, anti-pain treatment. Our bathroom should be warm and we should have clean towels and a robe ready for coming out of our bath. We just fill our tubs with hot water increasing or decreasing the temperature as is comfortable for us. When our tub is as full as we can get it, without running over as we get into it, is the right temperature for us, we can note the time. We need to stay in the bath for 15 to 20 minutes, not longer. Submerge yourself with only your head above water. Let your thoughts drift into the quietness of your awareness of your breathing in and out. Inhale and exhale fully, which releases tension from our muscles. Relax into the water and become "one" with the water. Add hot water if you need it, but beyond that, stay as still as possible. When time as passed, rise slowly and towel off lightly and put on the robe. This process will greatly help reduce stress, break the stress cycle, and allow our bodies to fall into a deeper rest. Regular use of anti-stress, anti-pain bath will release many stress factors through relaxation. This allows us to recover our energy and stimulate a stronger natural resistence, enhance our immune system and recover our health.

We can further enhance the effectiveness of water's stress and pain reduction by adding herbal extracts and essential oils to our therapeutic bath. Herbal extracts and essential oils are made from natural plans by various means of distillation. Essential oils, e.g. Lavender, provide a relaxing aroma that in itself reduces stress and pain. These essential oils are used in the treatment modality of aromatherapy and can be added to our bath water for added benefit. We can also use aromatherapy candles by our bath to add even more effective benefits to our therapeutic bath experience. Aromatherpy candles add a soothing light and aroma to ease stress and pain.

In natural thermal pools found in nature are many dissolved minerals that also have an effective therapeutic benefit. Minerals play an important role in water conditioning. Natural sodium (salt) minerals such as sodium borate, sodium caronate, and sodium cloride neutralize metals and provide a mild electrolyte solutions which disperses botanicals evenly throughout the water and helps attract the botanical molecules to our skin. Aromatherapy bath salts and minerals added to our bath water helps us receive full benefit from aromatherapy essential oils that we have added to our bath

Water is a powerful therapeutic natural source of stress and pain relief. We are water. Water is life. We often take this for granted and therefore do not make full use of this natural healing agent. Many of us do not even drink enough water. If we are wanting to manage stress or to break a vicious stress cycle, we need only remember that water is a powerful resource. The next time we are feeling stress, we can remember to simply wash our hands, splash some water on our faces, or take a soothing drink of water. If possible spend time with creeks, rivers, and where possible with the ocean. If possible, we can introduce swimming to our exercise program. If this is not possible, we can naturally soak away stress and pain with hot baths enhanced with aromatherapy bath salts, aromatherapy mineral baths, aromatherpy essential oils or stress and pain formulas specially designed to be used with water such as ABRA Herbal Hydrotherapy Muscle Bath or ABRA Hydrotherapy Stress Bath.

Jenny has more than twenty years experience with all natural health care products. More information about aromatherapy bath, aromatherapy and natural stress and pain relief formula is available at => http://www.sweetmedicineessentials.com/aromatherapy-bath-c-8.html

Spirituality Helps Texans With Stress Relief

2009-10-18T01:32:00.000-07:00

By: Pat Carpenter

There are certain activities that can reduce stress which are very tangible, including exercise, eating healthier and developing and nurturing friendships. But many individuals in Austin, Dallas, Houston and elsewhere in Texas also find that looking within themselves can help them manage the difficult times.

At its core, spirituality can give individual lives context. Spirituality doesn't mean you're connected to a specific belief system or even that you participate in religious worship. It comes from that invisible connection you have with others and involves the development of a personal value system, as well as the search for the meaning in life.

For many individuals, spirituality takes on the form of religion, prayer, meditation or the belief in a higher power. For others, spirituality is discovered in nature, music, art or a secular community. It is different for everyone.

Spirituality has many benefits. Here's how it can help you:

- Focusing on personal goals. You may help uncover what's most meaningful in your life. By discovering what's important to you, you can rid your life of stress by determining what the unimportant things that seem to consume you are.
- Making a connection with the world. The more you feel you have a direction in the world, the less alone you'll feel and the greater inner peace you will have.
- Relinquishing control. As you begin to feel a part of a greater whole, you discover you're not responsible for all the good and bad in life. Share the burden of tough times and life's blessings with those around you.
- Extending your support network. Sharing your spirituality can help build relationships.
- Making your life healthier. People who are spiritual can cope better with stress and heal faster from illness or addiction.

Spirituality starts with how you see yourself, and how you are nurtured by your relationships with others. This culminates in a sense of purpose in your life. The best ways to grow in your spirituality are to improve your self-esteem and to cultivate relationships with individuals who are important in your life.

Here are ways that some have found help in spiritual growth:

- Using prayer, meditation and relaxation techniques to access their inner wisdom and help focus their thoughts.
- Starting a journal to help them express their feelings and record their progress.
- Finding a trusted adviser or friend who can help discover what's important in one's life. Other individuals may have insights you don't.
- Reading inspirational stories to find inspiration in life.
- Talking to others whom one admires. Asking them how they found their way to a spiritual life.
- Trying new things. When exploring organized religion, remember the variety of different faiths and their traditions. If your spirituality is more secular, consider expanding your horizons with the arts or music.

Staying connected to both your spirituality and to those around you can benefit your life, mentally as well as physically. How you define spirituality may change over time, but it should always form the basis of your well-being. It helps you reduce your stress levels while providing direction in your life.

There are certain activities that can reduce stress which are very tangible, including exercise, eating healthier and developing and nurturing friendships. But many individuals in Austin, Dallas, Houston and elsewhere in Texas also find that looking within themselves can help them manage the difficult times.

Pat Carpenter writes for Precedent Insurance Company. Precedent puts a new spin on health insurance. Learn more at http://www.precedent.com/

Monitoring Your Health: Four Measures to Know

2009-10-17T01:29:00.000-07:00

By: Pamela Dombrowski-Wilson

How many times have you gone for your annual medical appointment and the doctor discussed your measures? How many times did you remember the numbers but not remember what they meant? I am referring to the measures of blood pressure and cholesterol. These combined are a fairly good predictor of heart health. According to the Centers for Disease Control, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S. representing 29 percent of the population and is the leading cause of disability.

Blood pressure consists of two readings the top number and the bottom number. The top number is called systolic pressure, defined as the pressure of blood in the arteries as the heart contracts to pump blood. The bottom number is called diastolic pressure, defined as the pressure of blood in the arteries that occurs when your heart is at rest between heartbeats.

The measures have been lowered for pre-high blood pressure and now range 120-139 systolic and 80-89 diastolic. Many people have no symptoms of high blood pressure and are not aware they have the condition. Blood pressure monitors are available for purchase at drug stores and in most pharmacy areas. If you suspect you have high blood pressure it is a good idea to talk to your doctor. Daily monitoring is a good way to monitor blood pressure whether you are taking medication or not.

Cholesterol is the other measure with two numbers. Cholesterol is a waxy substance produced in the liver and existing in certain foods. When there is too much cholesterol in the body, it settles in the arteries causing clogging and narrowing. We often hear about good and bad cholesterol. The good cholesterol measure is HDL (high density lipoprotein). The bad cholesterol measure is LDL (low density lipoprotein). The suggested appropriate level for total cholesterol is 200. LDL should be less than 100 and HDL should be 40 or higher. Many times cholesterol can be controlled by diet and exercise.

Ask your physician for the lab report that shows your blood test results and ask questions. Keep a copy at home to compare to subsequent lab reports to monitor your progress year to year. Blood pressure and cholesterol are four good measures to know in monitoring your ongoing health and wellness. It is important that we all become more educated about our own health so that we can become better consumer advocates for ourselves and our family members.

Many individuals hear the measures for blood pressure and cholesterol from physicians and do not really understand what they mean. This article provides a simple explanation and general guidelines.

Pamela D.Wilson, has over twenty years business experience including ten years in the healthcare field. Her specialization includes planning, counseling and advocacy for older adults. Contact her at The Care Navigator,
http://www.pameladwilson.com/

Filmmaker Overcomes Himalayan Difficulties to Bring Rare Yogi Interview to Those Seeking Yoga 'High'

2009-10-16T01:25:00.000-07:00

By: Victor Demko

Two landslides on a road in the Indian Himalayas tested holistic health filmmaker Victor Demko's resolve to get an interview with Yoga Master Swami Sundaranand. Demko encountered this challenge while traveling from Rishikesh to Gangotri, the site of the historic head water of the Ganges River and longtime home of the 79 year old Swami Sundaranand, one of the last hardcore Himalayan yogis.
Mr. Demko founding director of www.thecenterforhealingarts.com undertook the trip to ask "Swami-ji" to be the first guest of his new virtual healing arts center. The center provides an intimate in-depth encounter with a carefully selected healing arts practitioner on DVD to members every other month.
"So many people have time and financial restrictions but really would like to spend time with some of these great meditative/healing beings so my thought was to seek them out and make them available to people in their own homes". Says Mr. Demko.
"When we came up to the first landslide, the road had slid 800 feet down the mountain and a very thin dirt ledge was being cleared to pass on -- we were one of the first cars to risk driving on it. The second land slide closed the road between Uttrakashi and Gangotri for three days and my heart momentarily sank with the thought of not being able to get through. We went ahead anyways and when we arrived at the landslide, a heavy duty army bulldozer was working on clearing rocks and carving a ledge road into the side of the mountain. A whole bunch of people had been waiting to run across the piled debris for a long time and when the machine took a break we gingerly climbed across the loose landslide rocks with about a 1200 foot drop off below us."
"There was a bit of pandemonium as people tried to get a ride for the rest of the trip and no one was speaking English. With all that camera equipment equaling over 30 years wages for the average person in that area, packed in our knapsacks, we were a little nervous being stuck in such a remote spot, as we left the safety and protection of our car and driver behind and hoped we'd be able to get a ride on the other side of the slide. We were blessed that someone helped us for a moment and we were lucky enough to get the only jeep there to take us on the rest of the trip.
"Once in Gangotri, we were able to determine quite soon where Swami-ji lived. He's been there since 1948. At that time only he, his teacher, and one other Yogi lived there and for 25 years Swami-ji lived in a cave. We knocked on the gate of his modest property with the roaring Ganges just steps away and were received with total graciousness. He really invited us into his life of mediation and spiritual practices. He's extremely knowledgeable about Yoga, good health, and overall well being, as well as being an accomplished photographer of the natural beauty of the Himalayas" says Mr. Demko. "There's such depth and simplicity in his manner that viewers can benefit from. We left Gangotri enriched by our encounter with Swami'ji as well as having his blessing for both the center and to all those that see the film."
"It was worth the difficulties. The difficulties have turned into a sweet perfume that is the first in-depth encounter with a great healing arts practitioner on film for the center's series. I'll always be deeply grateful to Swami-ji for his blessings."
For further information and to order the film please visit http://thecenterforhealingarts.com

The Center for Healing Arts is a worldwide community of healing arts practitioners and those interested in healing and wellness. Members receive six DVD sessions a year, one every two months, that features a personalized, in-depth encounter with an adept practitioner of the healing arts. Guest practitioners are carefully selected for their experience, knowledge, spiritual and heart qualities, and for representing a particular tradition in the vast range of traditions the DVD sessions series will explore. Each is recorded as if speaking to an intimate friend. The focus is on presence rather than on commercialism. Each DVD can stand alone as an independent session or film. Taken together, however, the films will form a voyage of discovery, exploring the many types of healing used across the earth.

Mr. Demko founding director of www.thecenterforhealingarts.com undertook the trip to ask "Swami-ji" to be the first guest of his new virtual healing arts center. The center provides an intimate in-depth encounter with a carefully selected healing arts practitioner on DVD to members every other month.

Victor Demko ,The Founder and Director of http://www.thecenterforhealingarts.com

13 Tips to Boost Your Metabolism

2009-10-15T01:22:00.000-07:00

By: Steven N. Muller

There are a lot of people who would give a lot to increase their metabolism. Having a high level of metabolism enables one to burn fat and lose weight fast with the least amount of exertion. Metabolism is the rate by which the body produces and consumes energy and calories to support life.

There are several factors that affect the metabolism of a person, such as the amount of muscle tissue, the frequency of the meals one consumes, genetics, the digestive system, stress levels, personal diet, and activity levels. Metabolism slows down due to the following: loss of muscle because of not enough physical activity, the tendency of the body to cannibalize its own tissue because there is not enough food energy to sustain it, and the decrease of physical activity that comes naturally with old age.

Here are several ways to fire up one's metabolism:

1. Build up on lean, mean body mass. It is only natural that metabolism decreases along with age, but it is possible to counter the effects. The amount of muscle a person has is a very strong determinant in the ability to burn calories and shed fat. So it goes without saying that exercise is essential. Build strength and resistance by working out at least twice a week, preferably with weights. Do easy exercises in between workouts. Simple tasks such as walking the dog and using the stairs in place of the elevator can already take off calories. The key is to match the amount of eating to the amount of activity one has. Here are some guidelines in getting the right exercise:

For strength training

-Increase the amount of repetitions of a particular exercise.
-Add the level of resistance
-Utilize advance exercise techniques if possible

For cardiovascular training

-Insert intervals between exercises
-Perform cross-training and combine the exercises
-Add up on resistance and speed

2. Eat breakfast. A lot of people are ignoring the fact that breakfast is the most important meal of the day. Surprisingly, the ones who eat breakfast are thinner than the ones who do not. Metabolism can slow down considerably if breakfast is taken during mid-morning or if one waits until the afternoon to eat.

3. Avoid sugar. Sugar enables the body to store fat. It is recommended that a person consumes food that helps sustain an even level of blood-sugar. Additionally, progressive exercise 2-3 times a week should be in order to stabilize blood sugar.

4. Eat spicy foods. Hot cuisine with peppers can increase metabolism.

5. Sleep more. According to research, it is riskier for people who do not get enough sleep to gain weight. Also, muscles are regenerated during the last couple of hours of slumber.

6. Increase water intake. Water flushes out toxins that are produced whenever the body burns fat. Majority of bodily functions involves water, and lack of water causes the body system's operations to decrease its speed, and produces unneeded stress as a result.

7. Detoxify the digestive system. A clean and healthy digestive system not only helps the body to run more efficiently, it also gives you energy and helps you to crave healthier foods. This makes a cleansing program, such as Isagenix 9-Day Cleansing and Fat Burning System, a great way to jump-start a weight loss regimen.

8. Eat smaller meals. It is advisable to consume 4 to 6 small meals that are timed 2 to 3 hours apart.

9. Never skip meals. People tend to skip meals in order to lose weight, which is a big mistake since it slows down metabolism.

10. Plan meals in detail. Always prepare the right amount of food to be consumed at the designated intervals. Do not commit the mistake of eating meals in sporadic patterns.

11. Ditch the stress! Stress, be it physical or emotional, triggers the release of a steroid called cortisol, which decreases metabolism. Also, people tend to eat excessively when stressed.

12. Guzzle up on green tea. It can be used as a substitute for coffee. Tea has the ability to stimulate metabolism, and unlike coffee, it has no undesirable side effects when too much is consumed.

13. Include more energy foods in the diet, such as fruits and vegetables, beans and whole grains.

Achieving the desired body weight is never impossible if one has the determination and patience needed to stabilize the metabolism level, which plays an important role in weight loss. A person needs to realize that eating right and working out is not just a passing fancy, but a way of life. Fighting cravings is hard for most of us. A great help in the quest to eat healthier --and fight those unhealthy cravings-- is a body cleansing program.

Steven N. Muller health, fitness and sleep expert and is currently involved with following websites: http://www.loseweightandcleanse.com and http://www.sleepmanagementconsultants.com

Improving Your Own Health and Wellness While Saving the World

2009-10-14T01:17:00.000-07:00

By: Dave Wheitner

Having worked on several public health projects and in several human services settings, I have a strong concern for the health and wellness of others. The overlaps I've recognized between individual health, environment, global discord, and social justice have led me to make some major changes in my own life.

If our work involves helping others and improving the world, it's particularly important that we manage our own health and wellness. Fortunately, there are several ways we can do both simultaneously! In fact, many habits that benefit our health or the environment also have personal financial benefits (Blix & Heitmiller, 1997).

Uncontrollable factors like genetics and injuries aside, we generally stand a greater chance of living a long and productive life if we proactively maintain our own health. This gives us more time to pursue our visions in the world, share our gifts with others, and leave a lasting legacy.

However, we sometimes neglect ourselves while saving the world. In settings where the focus is upon helping others, I have seen and heard numerous examples of people who don't give themselves the care they deserve.

Upon returning from a trip to assess public health needs of tsunami victims, a colleague told me of the signs of stress exhibited by many of the professional aid workers. Many of them, he observed, appeared highly anxious and engaged in behaviors like smoking at very high levels. The trauma surrounding them was taking a toll. Likewise, I have noted many visibly unhealthy professionals (including medical doctors) in health and human services settings where poor health was also a common issue among clients.

So what can we do to take better care of ourselves while also saving the world? Outside of addressing obvious factors like overextended workweeks in high-stress settings, there are a number of possibilities.

First, we may generate health-related benefits for ourselves simply by giving generously to others in our own unique way. This doesn't need to be money; it can include expressing gratitude for someone's friendship, sharing an artistic talent, or even lending a listening ear. Outside of fulfilling us and making us happy, giving can actually improve our health and longevity. Post and Neimark (2007) cite studies suggesting the following:

-Giving as a high school student predicts good physical and mental health up to 50 years later, into late adulthood.
-Giving and helping others reduces mortality in older adults, and depression and suicide risk in adolescents.
-Giving is more powerful than receiving in reducing mortality.

These powerful impacts, note Post and Neimark, may occur through a variety of mechanisms. Giving increases our feelings of self-efficacy, allows us to forget about the stressors in our own lives, enables us to forgive ourselves for our own mistakes, and enhances our sense of being part of a supportive larger community.

Secondly, we can assess where we are in different health-related areas of our life, and take actions in each. In his holistic wellness model as cited by Michael Arloski (2007), Don Ardell suggests that we need to take personal responsibility for our choices in several dimensions of life:

-stress management
-physical fitness
-nutritional awareness
-sensitivity to our physical, social and personal environments

I'll outline a few ideas that blend the above dimensions while connecting personal and collective health and wellness.

As for stress management and physical fitness, think beyond traditional "exercise" like going to the gym if you find it difficult to motivate yourself. Arloski suggests viewing exercise as "movement." To do this in a way that benefits both yourself and the world, consider your modes of transportation throughout the day.

For example, rather than getting in the car, can you walk or ride a bicycle? Rather than taking an elevator, can you use the stairs? These options give you a workout, save energy, and minimize pollution. Additionally, they can reduce stress, as "pedestrian rage" is much less common than "road rage." They also have social benefits, given that it's difficult to talk to a friend as they're speeding by in their car, but relatively easy if you bump into each other on the sidewalk.

Perhaps you live in an area that has few or no sidewalks, no safe places to ride a bicycle, and no amenities within walking distance. In such cases, you may wish to look at how your choice of living location impacts health and well-being on both a personal and community level. Does your location support your values and priorities? If not, what would your ideal setting look like, and what steps would it take to attain that?

Also consider the energy efficiency of your home, and take steps such as insulating and utilizing low-energy lighting and appliances. Are you heating a house that's much larger than you need? Fewer costs require less time at work to pay the bills, which contributes to life balance and well-being. These considerations also benefit others' health in that energy savings often decrease air pollution (e.g., mercury) from coal-fired power plants.

Next, consider your diet. This has not only personal nutrition implications, but extensive environmental, economic and public health implications. What do you choose to put directly into your body every day, and does it support the self and world you envision? Food production and distribution requires energy and resources that affect the world in various ways.

Learn where your food is grown--the further it is shipped, the more energy it utilizes, which contributes to greenhouse gases. According to the "100 Mile Diet" project, our food ingredients travel an average of 1,500 miles. It's a bit more challenging to eat produce in season year-round in colder climates, but making an effort to eat as locally as possible can have sizeable benefits. Support your local farmers and grocers carrying their goods.

Also related to diet, consider organic foods when possible, as pesticides can have unintended and unpredictable impacts upon your health and the environment. As more people demand such products, they will continue to become more available and more affordable. If you have some spare time and a little space in your yard, consider planting a garden. Then you'll know what's going into your food and where it comes from, and you'll get some exercise, too!

You may also wish to explore the personal and environmental benefits associated with reductions in animal protein consumption. There is a sizeable well-documented (but not yet well-publicized) body of public health research on the risks of consuming animal-produced proteins, particularly meat and dairy, as well as literature on the "protein myths" that continue to circulate. Other important factors include consumption of whole foods (i.e., as they occur in nature) and dark leafy greens, but the animal protein factor alone is a significant one (Campbell & Campbell, 2006; Eisman, 2006; Robbins, 2006).

Additionally, it takes many times more energy, food and water to produce animal flesh than it does to produce plant-based food with the equivalent energy and nutritional value. By some estimates, it takes five pounds of grain and 2,500 gallons of water to produce each pound of beef (Kostigen & Rogers, 2007). Imagine how many additional people could be fed by taking out the "middleman"--or "middlecow."

Concentrated animal farming also takes a toll on both individual health and the environment. Five tons of animal manure are produced every year per every individual in the U.S. (Greger, 2006). Waste water and runoff, which often includes hormones and other chemicals, pollutes local water sources. Not all chemicals can be filtered out by drinking water treatment, and their impacts upon humans are still being discovered.

When large numbers of animals and humans are frequently in unnaturally close quarters to one another, it creates additional opportunity for diseases (e.g., avian flu) to mutate and jump species (Greger, 2006). Additionally, when forests are cleared to support animal production (e.g., growth of food crops), it increases breeding areas for disease-transmitting insects like mosquitoes (Greger, 2006), and destroys larger pollution-absorbing vegetation.

Maintaining personal health and wellness takes a certain degree of time and commitment, as does improving the world. However, it doesn't always have to be an "either/or" dilemma. Depending upon our own values and priorities, there are a number of ways in which we can integrate our efforts on both fronts and maximize our positive impact. I invite you to conduct your own research on these areas, and to create a life that works for you!

Sources

Arloski, M. (2007). Wellness Coaching for Lasting Lifestyle Change. Duluth, MN: Whole Person Associates.

Blix, J. & Heitmiller, D. (1997). Getting a Life: Real Lives Transformed by Your Money or Your Life.

Campbell, T.C. & Campbell, T.M. (2006). The China Study. Dallas: BenBella Books.

Eisman, G. (2006). A Basic Course in Vegetarian and Vegan Nutrition. Watkins Glen, NY: The Vegetarian & Vegan Association.

Greger, M. (2006) Bird Flu: A Virus of Our Own Hatching. New York: Lantern Books.

Kostigen, T. & Rogers, E. (2007). The Green Book: The Everyday Guide to Saving the Planet One Simple Step at a Time. New York: Three Rivers Press.

Post, S. & Neimark, J. (2007). Why Good Things Happen to Good People: The Exciting New Research That Proves the Link Between Doing Good and Living a Longer, Healthier, Happier Life. New York: Broadway Books.

Robbins, J. (2006). Healthy at 100: The Scientifically Proven Secrets of the World's Healthiest and Longest Lived Peoples. New York: Random House.

Dave Wheitner, M.S., M.A., life coaches people who wish to create a better world to find authenticity, direction, balance & fulfillment in their own lives. He offers discounts to professionals & students in idealist fields, & is authoring a book to be released in 2008. Please visit Idealist Coach site for more information.
http://idealistcoach.com/

Rhythms of Life

2009-10-13T01:14:00.000-07:00

By: Mary Ann Copson

“There are times to cultivate and create, when you nurture your world and give birth to new ideas and ventures. There are times of flourishing and abundance, when life feels in full bloom, energized and expanding. And there are times of fruition, when things come to an end. They have reached their climax and must be harvested before they begin to fade. And finally of course, there are times that are cold, and cutting and empty, times when the spring of new beginnings seems like a distant dream. Those rhythms in life are natural events. They weave into one another as day follows night, bringing, not messages of hope and fear, but messages of how things are.” --Chogyam Trungpa

Seasonal Rhythms

The dynamics of your body extends in an expanding range and your physiology is linked to the world and universe at large. Your body changes with the seasons, with the weather, with the atmospheric conditions. Many people can tell in their bones when a change in weather is coming. Human bodies are in synch with the gravitational forces, planetary shifts, the cold and heat, light and dark, humidity and all the other variations that the seasons bring. They respond and shift their functioning according to these natural dynamics. Your body increases and decreases certain functions in response to surrounding influences.

Biological and Geophysical Rhythms and Frequencies

All living organisms are composites of different rhythms and frequencies.

The heart beats approximately once per second but this rate speeds up in the morning and slows down at night; the electrical activity of the human brain cycles in fractions of a second; breathing occurs about sixteen times per minute; many hormones are released in pulses lasting several hours.

Across all species the natural daily rhythmic cycles run in twenty to twenty-eight hours for a natural day. The most conspicuous cycles in plants and animals are these daily rhythms (Circadian). They inter mesh with other cycles that are longer or shorter than a day.

Biological activities and processes are tied to lunar cycling as in monthly processes such as menstruation and also to the earth’s rotation around the sun as is seen in such yearly activities as hibernation, migration, and reproduction.

The seven day week has no obvious geophysical correlate but research suggests that this cultural convention may reflect deep biological rhythms. Seven day rhythms are seen in many illnesses, for example the common cold, and beard growth in men follows a seven day cycle.

Annual seasonal rhythms are less noticeable in humans than in other animals but they do exist. Secretion of the male hormone testosterone surges in the fall, sperm concentration and activity is highest in the winter, and rates of conception peak in the winter. More babies are born in August and September than in other months. Babies born in summer and fall tend to weigh slightly more than babies born in other seasons and they have a greater likelihood of survival. Miscarriages are greater in the fall.

Deaths also have a seasonal pattern. Fatal heart attacks are more common in winter. This is true even in climates that are mild such as Hawaii and also in the southern hemisphere where seasons are reversed. Winter months are the time of lower resistance to infections and of higher cholesterol levels.

Disorders and Seasonal Rhythms

It has been found that people who suffer from depression have skewed body rhythms and cycles. These may include the rhythms of sleep, body temperature, and hormone release. Seasonal rhythms have also come under scrutiny. Suicides peak in the spring usually in May. Admissions to mental hospital for depression also soar in the spring. There is another smaller surge in suicides and hospital admissions in the fall. An external environmental factor - the length of daylight -is believed to an influencing factor.

The Body Has a Master Clock

In the 1960’s researchers found the key generator of body rhythms. Injuring part of a tiny region at the center of the brain known as the hypothalamus caused the loss of many normal rhythms. The hypothalamus commands the sympathetic nervous system. It speeds up breathing and heart rate in moments of danger, regulates body temperature, stimulates appetite and reproduction and controls hormone secretion. Further research found that a critical area of the hypothalamus, the suprachiasmatic nucleus -SCN- a tiny cluster of nerve cells that sits on top of the optic chasm, is the body’s master clock. The SCN directs the body’s various rhythms to work together. The SCN uses daylight signals picked up by the eyes to direct each body rhythm to do its part at the appropriate time, day after day.

Seasonal Changes

Regardless of location, in traditional cultures, there was an awareness that they were continuously affected by the changing seasons. You may live longer and be more healthy if you adapt your health care to the natural rhythms of the earth. Learning to live within the seasonal fluctuations is believed to bring health, harmony and strength to the body. It also provides a natural timetable and rhythm for a good service check and health care program for maintenance and upkeep to prevent accumulated stress from degenerating body responses.

Many people get the flu in the shift from summer to fall. In the peak of winter many suffer from depressive moods. Some people find that if they drink fruit juices or eat a lot of fruit in the winter they will feel cold and damp and get a cold. When it is difficult to adjust from one season to the next our bodies may react through lowered immune responses that leave us more vulnerable to later illness.

Sometimes the body is a bit out of step with all the changes from one season to another. That’s why many people tend to get sick during those shifting times. Sometimes we fail to adapt our habits to be more compatible to our changing body functions in response to the seasonal changes. By being aware of some of these cyclical changes throughout the year we can support shifting body dynamics so as to assist the changes. We can also take advantage of these natural shifting points to expand those dynamics that are increasing/flowing and rest those that are decreasing/ebbing. Many traditional cultures have set up associations of food, drink, activities, energies, dress, organs of the body, and emotions that are related to and affected by the seasonal shifts.

Are You Connected With Your Natural Rhythms?

Your biological clock is set to cue you to certain kinds of activities during certain times of the day. Bodies have thousands of natural rhythms for every biological function. Your moods are regulated by your biological clock. Your brain energy is just like your other natural rhythms – high at certain times of the day and low at other times of the day. Your energy and vitality follow the same natural ebb and flow. When you try to push through those natural rhythms you lose the temporal harmony of your biological clock and desynchronization, malaise, dysfunction and poor performance set in. You will run but you will never be your best.

When all your biological patterns are ebbing and flowing according to their natural rhythms your body is synchronized and performs at its peak. You will have effortless energy and vitality when you live in accordance with your circadian, diurnal, and seasonal rhythms.

Are you aware of any energy cycles that you have? Do you pay attention to these cycles and adjust your activities as needed?

Are you able to go inward and rest when needed, or are you more likely to resist and keep going?

Are you aware of changes in alertness and your thinking abilities and do you use this awareness advantageously?

Do you have the energy and passion for projects that you want to do?

When you must perform at your best do you remain calm, focused and positively energized regardless of the situation?

Are you able to naturally meet the challenges of a situation? Or does it all seem to be too much for you and you just get by as best as you can?

Can you enter a state of calmness, alertness, focus and positive energy whenever you need to regardless of the situation?

If you are worried or feeling upset can you set aside these feelings and be fully engaged in what is happening for you in the moment?

Do you have the energy and motivation to be involved in interesting and challenging situations that call for you to be your best and operate creatively?

Copyright (c) 2008 Mary Ann Copson

Mary Ann Copson is the founder of the Evenstar Mood & Energy Wellness Center. With Master's Degrees in Human Development and Psychology and Counseling, Mary Ann is a Certified Licensed Nutritionist; Certified Holistic Health Practitioner; Brain Chemistry Profile Clinician.If you have answered “no” to any of the above questions, reconnect to your physical, emotional, mental, psychological and spiritual natural rhythms at
http://evenstaronline.com

What is Energy and Where Can I Get More Of It?

2009-10-12T01:12:00.000-07:00

By: Glenn Antoine

How often have you been in the presence of some child that is running around the room like the energizer bunny rabbit and someone has commented that they would love to have that kind of energy again? One of my favorites is, how can we bottle some of that energy? I heard that one often when growing up.

While I would love to talk about all of the gory details about where energy starts, how it is created and why we seem to have less and less of this precious commodity as we get older, I’ll spare the details. However, with that said I can tell you emphatically that energy does NOT come from caffeine and it certainly does NOT come from refined carbohydrates and/or refined sugars. Why do I bring this up? Well how often do you or someone you know pick up an Energy drink or stop at their favorite coffee shop to get a boost during the day? Caffeine has become the number one drug of choice in the US and my guess is (based on my travels) that is the case pretty much world wide. Unfortunately caffeine is little more than a chemically induced stress which our bodies misinterpret as energy.

The serious part of this equation is that stress is the number one killer in the US. Now for those of you that are looking at a list of the top diseases, or causes of death you are not going to see stress listed there. Why? Basically it boils down to the fact that stress is a silent killer. Stress is Mother Nature’s way of weeding us out without having to rely on a catastrophic event to wipe out a large number of people. The reason behind this very effective tool that Mother Nature has is that stress simply provides the environment in which our bodies are not at their peak thereby allowing a multitude of diseases to take root, setting us up for a Heart-attack, a stroke, and this list goes on. In short stress drains our immune system (and a multitude of other bodily functions) to the point where we can no longer fight off things that should be of little to no consequence.

To make matters worse Energy Drinks are one of the hottest items on the market today. Now you can rest assured that those with the added vitamins and nutrients are much better for you – NOT! What little nutritional value they have is so far out weighed by the caffeine, the sugars, etc, etc that their nutritional value is non-existent. What’s more is that they give you a false sense of energy for a short period of time until you coming crashing back to earth. What do most people do once they hit this low? Reach for another energy drink and I really use that term loosely and only because that is the popular term that they are marketed under. If you hear nothing else, hear this: ENERGY DRINKS DO NOT GIVE YOU ENERGY. Primarily due to the fact that your energy level is not low because of a caffeine deficiency.

In short energy drinks are little more than a typical soda that you have been drinking your whole life. What do energy drinks provide you with:
- Large amounts of caffeine
- Large quantities of sugar
- Other herbal stimulants such as guarana and ginseng
- A roller coaster ride that severely stresses your adrenals,

The possible health risks involved with the consumption of energy drinks is very lengthy. The stimulating properties of these drinks typically boost the heart rate, increase blood pressure, add to the dehydration of the body, and, like other stimulants, prevent sleep. Unfortunately, there has been little testing with regards to some of the biggest concerns. In short it is not nearly enough is known about the effects caused by the combination of ingredients in energy drinks. To further complicate matters there are many of these drinks that are used in combination with alcohol as mixers.

Natural Energy
As you may or may not know, energy is created via a very complex process known as the Kreb Cycle and as we age our Kreb cycle begins to be less efficient at that energy creation process. The good news is that recent scientific research has discovered the rate limiting factors that prevent us from creating energy the way that we did when we were kids.

If you really would like to have the unlimited supply of energy that we all had at one time it is now possible. Maybe not to the point of being 5 years old again, but what about simply not feeling like you need to take a nap in the afternoon. What if you could get to the end of the day and still have energy to spend on your favorite hobby, take a walk with the love of you life, or …….. you fill in the blank?

You in fact have millions of energy factories throughout your body and they are a section within the cells of your body known as the mitochondria. What has been discovered is that over time the by products of the energy creation that we so desperately need to get through the day actually begins to damage the mitochondria and as such the energy creation process becomes less efficient. One of the biggest causes of this slow down in the creation of energy is caused by free radicals that are those by-products that I just mentioned. Research has shown that by increasing the amount of acetyl-L-carnitine and alpha lipoic acid available to your cells our energy production can be rejuvenated.

Now please take note that I have very much simplified the discussion of what needs to take place here in order to get the full benefits of these two supplements, but what I really wanted to point out is that you do NOT have to rely on huge doses of sugar and caffeine to fool you body in to thinking it has energy. Further more to get the maximum benefits available to you in a well planned anti-aging regimen you want a product that is going to provide the nutrients that are needed and any additional components required for you body to fully utilize what you are putting into it. Personally, for me the best thing on the market is AgelessXtra.

References:

1) Wikipedia Website (Kreb Cycle) - Citric_acid_cycle

2) Wikipedia Website (Energy Drinks) - Energy_drink

3) Alternative Medicine Website - energy_drinks

4) Brown University: Health Education Website - energydrinks

5) Stephen Cherniske, M.S., The Metabolic Plan, The Random House Publishing Company, 2003, ISBN: 0-345-44102-8

Glenn has combined his passion for health and fitness with a great business model that allows him opportunities that would have otherwise not been possible. For more information visit: http://www.aginghealthier.com/ or http://www.opportunityofyourlife.com/

Health and Beauty Tips

2009-10-11T01:09:00.000-07:00

By: Katie Thomas

Beauty and health are the two sides of the same coin. You cannot possess either in isolation. Indeed a healthy person is naturally beautiful and the reverse is also true. It is a fact that health and beauty go hand in hand. Health is the metabolic efficiency in all people and beauty brings joy to the beholder.

There are all kinds of health and beauty advice available through personal contacts as well as on the Internet. This should not be astounding for the reason that there are for all time people who learn regarding some original beauty secrets and they wish to share them with others. While there are many cosmetic products and health supplements that may be taken following some kind of healthy and beauty advice, one of the least popular yet essential beauty secrets involves milk of magnesia.

Firstly, find ways to move your body. Always make it a point to use the stairs rather than elevators or escalators unless you are pressed for time. If you are overweight, eat less or exercise more to have a youthful body. It is important to keep diabetes under control if one is diabetic or even take preventive measures to reduce the onset of diabetes and the risk of coronary heart disease, stroke, hyper tension, and cancer or lung disease. Sedentary lifestyle is the greatest bane of health and beauty. It is imperative to exercise 30 minutes a day, 5 or 6 days a week. You can move around in small time intervals. It will be definitely far more rewarding if you could devote 45 minutes to 1 hour for any physical activity.

Be mindful that there is nothing hopeless about the other products, this healthy and beauty advice is being provided to you as an additional benefit from something that is not generally well known. Many celebrities are in the habit of using milk of magnesia and if you notice carefully, the ones with the most flawless skin are typically the ones using this of all beauty secrets.

Drinking water is one of the best beauty and health tips we can all follow. Water is essential for virtually every function of the body. The average person needs 1 to 3 liters of water a day. Drink with meals, as well as before, during and after exercise. Remember during your workouts, cold water is more readily absorbed. The most important of the beauty and health tips is to quit smoking.

The great thing about following health and beauty advice that involves milk of magnesia is that it is not something short-term but can keep your skin healthy and perfect up to quite an advanced age and even counteract some of the more obvious signs of aging skin. You should try to follow this health and beauty advice at least once and it is guaranteed that milk of magnesia will impress you like no other lesser known of all beauty secrets there are.

Try to reduce stress filled situations. It is always easier said than done. Devote 30 minutes a day doing something you enjoy. Keep your temper under check and count to ten before losing your temper or getting aggravated. Stay away from people whom you find difficult to cope with. It is also important to practice oral hygiene and stay in a pollution free environment to remain healthy.

Gulping down glasses of wine can cause health problems such as liver and kidney disease as well as cancer. There are many health and beauty products available in the market right now. They bring in different promises, guarantees and offers. Think for a while before making the purchase. Collect the details of the products you intend to buy. You should ensure that the product will do well for your beauty and health which you are looking for in it.

The link between genetics and beauty and health is a powerful one. But if one follows these basic beauty and health, it is possible to live a healthy and beautiful life. Finally, stay positive. There's an ultimate connection between positive outlook and healthy and happy living. We all agree to the fact that a beautiful mind exists in a beautiful body that is the best of all beauty and health tips.

Application is quite simple, with a bit of cotton use to apply it on your face. After application you must wait for it to completely dry and when your skin feels tight, you gently rinse of the application and that is all.

By following this healthy and beauty suggestion you will find out that face packs as well as milk of magnesia will totally remove blackheads with no all the harshness that engages other comparatively less effectual beauty secrets that claim to provide the same results.

katie thomas a freelence article writer. I wrote many articles on Health and Beauty Aids, Health and Beauty UK, Health and Beauty Product, Health and Beauty Supplies UK, Health and Beauty Products UK, Health and Beauty Aids UK
http://www.healthandbeautyaids.co.uk/

A Healthy Lifestyle in 4 Easy Steps

2009-10-10T01:06:00.000-07:00

By: I. Worthington

Being in great health and fitness should be a major goal for all of us - at the end of the day the way we feel reflects the quality of our life we will lead - and what's more important than your life?? Feeling good, in essence, entails maximising your PHYSICAL and MENTAL state. This article will solely focus on the physical perspective (maybe I'll post an article about the mental factors if I receive a positive response to this one !). To make this exercise as pain free as possible I've broken down being healthy into 5 easy-to-use tips, which anyone can follow. My aim in doing this has been to eliminate factors which people tend to use as an excuse for not 'following through' with the suggested action. These factors can include financial, time and commitment restraints.

The beauty of these tips is they are extremely easy to implement and most people already know that they are correct. Therefore, why do the majority of people ignore such common sense or even do the complete opposite? The answer is simple, they have been conditioned, by themselves or society, to act and perform in a certain way. This article is not intended to change your daily routine, which may be poor or excellent, but to simply input additional easy and quick activities to that routine to improve your physical health. Here goes (please note, these are tips which have worked for me, and whilst they follow ideas extracted from extensive reading, they are not all specifically backed by proven data - that's the beauty of having an opinion folks!):-

Tip 1
Drink between 2-4 litres of water daily. Replace all carbonated, cordial, tea, coffee etc with water (don't like water? Drink it long enough you will!). I personally add a large slice of lemon to all water I consume - 1) because I adore the taste 2) lemon is alkaline, which is widely accepted to be healthier than acidic produce. Also, you should never feel a severe sense of thirst if you are in-taking enough water, as this is a sign of the onset of dehydration. Therefore, drink or sip water at regular short intervals throughout your day, increasing the intake where water is disposed from the body via sweating or increased physical activity has occurred. A water source not available to you all the time? Easy - always prepare a large bottle of water at the start of your day and keep it close to you throughout the day.

Tip 2
Don't just have your 'five a day' fruit / vegetables - ensure it outweighs the rest of your daily intake. Therefore, if you really need that juicy 12oz steak, make sure you offset it with a large salad, or a portion of vegetables which dwarf the steak in size! I'm not going to be the guy to tell you not to have certain foods, we all have our pleasures, but if you learn how to offset the pleasure (or better still, make the healthy options the pleasure - but that's delving into the mental perspective I promised not to!) with fruit / vegetables you will be on the right track.

Tip 3
Set fitness goals and broadcast them! "Why broadcast them?" I hear you ask. Well, the majority of people like to keep their word and fulfill any promises they make. Therefore, telling people who will hold you to your promise will stimulate you to complete your goal and achieve your target. Alternatively there are websites which can be used for this purpose.

Tip 4
BENCHMARK. Do you know someone who is supremely healthy, either by appearance or the vitality they exhibit? If you do, this is someone you want to interrogate (in a nice way!). Find out how they exercise, what they eat and how they operate. They have proven their method, now apply it yourself. If you don't personally know anyone who meets your specification of desired health, widen your search. Perhaps a celebrity or sportsperson has what you want. Research them, the web holds a lot of info as I guess you know, so I'm sure a person of your means can collect the 'benchmark' data you require.

Final Thought:
Actively acknowledge when you are feeling healthy. Many people do not notice the results they are achieving or believe it's pure coincidence - coincidence and health rarely co-exist! Thank you for time, I hope this article will be of some benefit to you and that you live a healthy and successful life.

My background is very sport and fitness orientated, not in my profession but in my lifestyle. I have been a keen sports player since I was 'knee high to a grasshopper' and a gym member since college. However, I honestly believe I have never felt fitter than I do at present, at the age of 32 years, 4 months and 8 days! I have recently become involved in http://www.competitiveurge.com/ , a social networking site with a difference - it actively encourages and promotes physical participation.