Guest Spot: When Should You See a Chiropractor? By Keith Warde

When Should You See a Chiropractor?
By Keith Warde

Experiencing lower back pain is common for most people and they can feel relief within a few weeks with general self care. There are those that do suffer with more frequent severe lower back pain or the pain doesn't go away for them. This is when you should seek chiropractor care.

There are many different reasons a person will suffer from lower back pain, including strenuous exercise, general strain, poor posture, and lifting excessive amounts of weight.

What type of symptoms can one expect if they are experiencing lower back pains, stiffness and muscle spasms, burning sensations, pain that comes on suddenly or gradually.

When you visit your chiropractor after suffering from lower back pain that won't ease up, your chiropractor may suggest different things to try.

With your lower back pain your chiropractor may believe this is caused by a slipped disc and will order x-rays. If you are suffering from frequent lower back pain and it won't go away, you should seek a chiropractor and find a good treatment plan.

Chiropractor care is one of the safest methods of treatment. There is one treatment that is popular called manipulation. This concept is used to apply force to a joint. This force pushes it beyond its regular range of motion.

In theory when there is no to little movement of your spine it can cause pain and reduce function. With manipulation it will adjust your spine to where it needs to be.

There are other treatments for lower back pain which might include ultrasound, electrical muscle stimulation, or massage therapy.

No matter what type of lower back pain you suffer from you should consult with a chiropractor for advice and treatment. You will feel much better and your back will thank you for it.

Dr. Keith Warde, D.C. provides cost-effective state of the art chiropractic care. Whether you are seeking chiropractic care, rehabilitation services, massage therapy or MUA (Manipulation under anesthesia) Southwest Spine & Sport, Inc can help you!

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

Do Crystals really have the ability to Heal? By Bob Hubbard

Do Crystals really have the ability to Heal?
By Bob Hubbard

New Age Healing has a number of interesting components, many of them based on ideas and information from our ancient past. One of them, is the idea of the healing stone, or using various crystals to cure what ails you.

Crystal healing traces back to various ancient cultures, from ancient Egypt, to China, and beyond. Crystal healers believe that the crystals contain an energy or life force of their own, and can modify and effect your own life energy field.

Specific crystals are used to effect various illnesses and ailments. Amethyst for example might be used to sooth the aches of arthritis, heal your bones and boost your spiritual awareness, while rose quartz is used to calm you and boost your love life. Citrine can increase your self-esteem, while bloodstone will purify you and protect you.

Crystal healers will use stones that are intended to have a positive influence on your main charkas, or energy centers. Each one controls part of your body and have a particular color associated with them. By matching colors, the crystal healer will seek to restore balance thereby improving your physical and mental health.

The big question is however, Does it Work?

There have been few large scientific tests done on the ideas behind crystal healing. Much of the proof cited behind it comes from peoples personal experiences. A study was performed in 1999 by Christopher French of Goldsmiths College, University of London. In this study, 80 volunteers, half male including customers from a New Age store were given either a natural quartz crystal to hold, or a fake crystal made of glass and were asked to report sensations such as tingling, heat, relaxation, and mood change. A follow up experiment was done in 2001. In both cases, there was no meaningful difference between the real and fake stones effects. Those who expected something usually felt it, and those who didn't, didn't.

"The power of suggestion, either explicit or implicit, seems to be the not so mysterious power that may convince many that crystals have the potential to work miracles," Dr. French said.

So, do they work?

The answer is, no, and yes.

So far, there is no scientific proof that they do work, but if you believe they can work, they might.

"Clearly, there is an effect here -- people did react to having a crystal in their hand, whether it was real or not," said Dr. Chris Wiseman of Hertfordshire University who co-authored the study.

So, if you believe they can help you, go right ahead and stock up on quartz and all the rest, or my favorite, turquoise.



Reference:
Crystal healing all in the mind
Scotsman/March 29, 2001
By John Woodcock and Jennifer Hill
http://www.rickross.com/reference/general/general369.html

Crystal Healing: The Healing Properties of Gemstones and Crystals
http://www.gems4friends.com/therapy.html

=========

Bob Hubbard is an administrator of the popular martial arts portal site MartialTalk.com and president of SilverStar WebDesigns inc., a web site design and hosting company specializing in affordable solutions for martial artists. Bob can be reached at webmaster@martialtalk.com and at bobhubbard.net
Article Copyright © 2008 - Bob Hubbard - All Rights Reserved.
This article may be reproduced provided all text, links, the author bio and these terms are kept intact.

Health Tip of the Week - Healthy Digestion II

Health Tip of the Week - Healthy Digestion II

Make sure you eat plenty of fiber. A fiber rich diet may help to decrease your risk of colon and rectal cancer. Foods that contain fiber include whole grains, leafy greens as well as apples, pears and avocados. They bulk and soften your stools, decreasing risks of constipation and diarrhea.

Guest Spot: Thinking of Buying Over the Counter Pain Medication? Better Think Again By Jes Walia

Thinking of Buying Over the Counter Pain Medication? Better Think Again
By Jes Walia

They come in different colors, shapes and sizes, lined up beautifully in a row in every drugstore. But while many people still patronize medicines over the counter, more and more people are now saying that they have popped pills far too many.

Scared by reports of side effects of modern day medicines has prompted many people to seek alternative medicines.

For instance experts say that pain medications could cause allergic reactions, fainting, unusual weakening or fatigue, abnormal bleeding or bruising, jaundice or yellowing of the skin and eyes, confusion, symptoms of infection (such as fever, chills and sore throat), and irregular heartbeats.

It could also trigger dizziness, lightheadedness, numbness of limbs, muscle aches and cramps, increased hunger or thirst, changes in sense of taste, dry and irritating cough, excessive urination, anxiety or depression, rashes, profuse sweating, upset stomach, vomiting, gas, mild diarrhea, sedation, constipation and nausea.

But why take the risk and suffer even one of these side effects when you have options.

There is acupuncture, which is the Chinese form of healing. It is described as a technique of inserting fine filiform needles into specific points in the body for therapeutic purposes.

Or you could consult a chiropractor which mainly deals with mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system particularly on the spine in connection with the nervous system.

The world-renowned fashion designer Oscar de la Renta, at some point in his life, had himself treated by a chiropractor when he suffered a whiplash problem and experienced severe pain in his elbows and arms.

Since he has just came from a surgery, the suggestion to undergo another surgery to cure his whiplash problem did not appeal to him. De la Renta decided to see a chiropractor and religiously he underwent treatment everyday for six weeks. At the end of the treatment, he no longer experienced pain and no longer had to undergo another surgery.

http://www.drjaswalia.com http://www.drwalia.com Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jes_Walia

Health Tip of the Week - Healthy Digestion

Health Tip of the Week - Healthy Digestion

Reduce the fats and oils in your diet for a healthier digestive system. Too much fat can slow your digestion, leading to heart burn, bloating and constipation. Diets high in saturated and animal fats may increase your risk of colon cancer.

Guest Spot: Hot Tub and Home Spa Safety By: Terri Greene

Hot Tub and Home Spa Safety
By: Terri Green

With the increasing number of hot tubs and home spas being installed in homes and backyards everywhere, it would be wise for us to take some time to discuss hot tub safety. Most people associate hot tubs with fun and relaxation, but there are a number of potential health issues to aware of.

Hot tubs and home spas can be a fertile breeding ground for bacteria and disease-causing organisms. This is generally due to the warm, moist environment of the hot tub. It is not uncommon for Legionella bacteria to be found in a hot tub that is not properly cared for. This is a very dangerous type of bacteria that can cause Legionnaires disease, as well as pneumonia and eye/ear infections. With the proper hot tub care and maintenance, the potential of becoming ill from your hot tub are greatly reduced.

Disinfection is the key to preventing the growth of bacteria in your hot tub. While many hot tubs and spa come equipped with UV light systems and ozone treatments, these are no substitute for the use of chemicals. The disinfectant level in your hot tub or spa should be no lower than 3ppm for chlorine, and 4.5ppm for bromine. The ideal pH level for your tub is somewhere between 7.2 and 7.6.

The disinfectant level in your hot tub should be checked before and after each use. Most hot tub and spa dealers sell testing kits that should be used regularly. One way to minimize the amount of bacteria in your tub is to make sure that you and your guests shower before entering the hot tub. The amount of usage is another factor to be mindful of. A hot tub that is rarely used is going to require fewer chemicals than a tub that is used daily.

You should also drain your hot tub every month or so, and clean it thoroughly with a bleach solution. Filtration and pumping systems should also be cleaned regularly. By following these safety and hygiene tips, you should be able to enjoy your hot tub for many years to come. If you have any questions or concerns about your hot tub safety status, contact your local hot tub dealer or manufacturer. Alternatively, you can visit the site below. Au Revoir!


-----
Terri Greene spends much of her time soaking in her favorite hot tub. When she is not telling her friends about the last hot tub party, she is threatening to sue them if the pictures end up on the internet. In her spare time, she writes for hottubsandhomespas.com – a resource for anyone interested in Caldera Spas, Great Lakes Hot Tubs, Solana Spas and more.

Health Tip of the Week - Don't Skip Meals to Lose Weight

Health Tip of the Week

Don't Skip Meals to Lose Weight
Skipping meals to lose weight is self defeating. When you skip meals, your metabolism slows down, conserving resources and actually burns slower. Also, you brain thinks it's starving, and tells your body to store more food, so you actualy can get fatter by skipping meals. Rather than skip meals, eat smaller meals more often. This keeps you body running at peak efficiency, and lets you burn fat off optimally.

Guest Spot: Back Pain By: What Increases & Decreases Good & Bad Cholesterol? By: Linda Giles

What Increases & Decreases Good & Bad Cholesterol?
By: Linda Giles

Factors leading to and Increase in Cholesterol Poor eating habits Diet that is high in saturated fat tends to elevate cholesterol. Saturated fats are found mostly in foods that come from animals. Saturated fat raises you LDL ("bad") cholesterol level more that anything else in the diet. Eating too much saturated fat is the main reason for high levels of cholesterol and high rate of heart attacks. Smoking Cigarette smoking lowers HDL ("good") cholesterol levels and is one of the six major risk factors of heart disease. It also increases the tendency for blood to clot. Once a person quits smoking, HDL cholesterol levels rises within weeks or months to levels that are equal to their nonsmoking peers. Excess Weight Excess weight tends to increase your LDL ("bad") cholesterol level. If you are over weight and have high LDL-cholesterol level, losing weight may help you lower it. Heredity Heredity can make certain individuals more prone to high cholesterol. Genes play a role in influencing you LDL-cholesterol level. Your genes influence how high you LDL ("bad") cholesterol is by affecting how fast LDL is made and removed from the blood. Stress Stress over the long term has been shown in several studies to raise blood cholesterol levels. One way that stress may do this is by affecting your habits. For example, when some people are under stress, they console themselves by eating fatty foods. Alcohol consumption Alcohol intake increases HDL ("good") cholesterol but does not lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol. But drinking too much alcohol can damage the liver and heart muscle, lead to high blood pressure, and raise triglycerides. Because of the risks, the benefit isn’t great enough to recommend drinking alcohol if you don’t do so already. Factors which Lower Cholesterol in the Body Good Eating Habits Eating healthy is a vital part of lowering you cholesterol. Increasing fiber intake by as little as 3 grams per day can help lower cholesterol. Good sources include oatmeal, soy, legumes, some vegetables, and beans. A healthy diet includes minimal saturated fat. However, monounsaturated fats (olive oils) have a positive effect on cholesterol. Alcohol should also be kept to a minimum. Exercise Along with diet, exercising is an important part of achieving a healthy cholesterol level. Being physically active can help lower you cholesterol level, whether it involves everyday activities like cleaning or gardening or structured exercise program. Exercise sets off a series of enzymatic reactions in the body that increases HDL’s and lowers triglycerides. This will ultimately lower LDL’s ("bad") and total cholesterol. Weight Loss This is actually the most significant independent contributor to cholesterol reduction. While exercise and proper diet contribute to cholesterol reduction. In most cases weight loss must occur to see an improvement. The good news is that only a five percent weight loss can alter cholesterol significantly.

----- Linda Giles also writes on Fungrx: Ring Worm Treatment. More info: Treatment for Ringworm, Cure

Sushi, for Fun and Health

Sushi, for Fun and Health


Sushi. It's not just raw fish. Sushi, a seasoned rice treat from Japan, combines rice, rice wine vinegar, salt, sugar, and other healthy additions into an easy to eat package.

A key component of many sushi is the raw fish, or sashimi, which has to be top quality, and at the peak of it's freshness.

Some sushi however contains no raw components, but cooked crab, shrimp, egg or raw vegitables such as carrot, cuccumber and avacodo.

Sushi is usually a low fat, high Omega-3 food, and often a great source of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals.



For more information:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sushi
http://www.eatsushi.com/
http://www.c4vct.com/kym/bento/sushi.htm

Health Tip of the Week - Eat more Asparagus

Health Tip of the Week

Eat more Asparagus
Asparagus is high in vitamin K and folate, can help sufferers of menstrual cramping, is good for your digestion system, can help fight depression, detoxify the body, and can lower cholesterol. It also has some anti-inflammatory properties, and has anti fungal and anti viral qualities.

Guest Spot: Back Pain By: Lucy Nicholas

Back Pain
By: Lucy Nicholas

Back pain is one thing most likely to elicit a twinge of sympathy from the hardest of hearts. It is estimated that every person in the world will suffer from it in his/her lifetime - mild to serious, chronic or temporary. You could get an attack at any point along the spine, especially the lower back area which takes on the maximum weight and stress. Most common causes: strain or bruising of muscles; sprain or injury to ligaments; and spasms when the injured muscle knots up as part of the body’s attempt to immobilize it to prevent further injury. Other causes include osteoporosis, arthritis, a slipped disc, or even excessive gas, besides more serious causes like tumors, diabetes or kidney malfunctions that emerge in a doctor’s clinic. Blame it on your Lifestyle An important factor and one that is entirely in you hands, is lifestyle. For instance, improper postures while sitting and sleeping, and carelessness during walking, stretching or playing, especially when you are overweight, are few common causes. Grand illusions of being a Hercules incarnate and lifting heavy weights or improperly hefting them around are other frequent errors. Bad posture is the biggest culprit. Desk jobs mean sitting for hours before computers where we unconsciously slump into odd positions. Or twist our backs frequently while trying to reach for something behind or beside us, or stretch forward too far; too fast. We also unconsciously slip into awkward positions while reading or watching TV sprawled on the bed or sofa. Sit up Chairs with gaps at the lower back level are deadly - avoid them. And if you think you are invulnerable because you have that perfectly ‘ergonomically’ designed chair; know this - most people unconsciously lean forward in such a way that their lower back moves away from the chair base and thus remains unsupported. Get up and Walk around Sitting anywhere, anyhow, for long periods means that dangerous pressure points develop along the back. The load on you back is the highest when you are sitting, less while standing and least when you are sleeping. The golden rule is to get up and walk around every 15-20 minutes. When on a long drive, get out of the car, walk around, stretch you limbs after every two hours. While driving, the back of the car seat should not recline beyond 30 degrees and ideally the seat bottom should be tilted up slightly in front. It’s not a high Avoid regular use of high heels - they hamper good posture, ruin you body’s alignment and hurt the back, feet and neck. Our feet are designed to bear the entire weight of the body evenly across their surface. However, the feet and legs are placed in and unnatural position when you wear heels. Most of the pressure is transferred to the front of the foot. Stressed Out The modern-day stress epidemic is another factor since back pain can be psychosomatic. Stress/emotional problems both cause back pain and aggravate any existing pain. Yoga and meditation sessions are effective in such cases. Weak stomach muscles heighten back strain and cause you pelvis to twist abnormally. Regular and proper exercise help tremendously since it keeps joints mobile, muscles conditioned and, more importantly, raises your pain threshold. Don’t over Exercise Doctors receive many back-pain patients who are victims of improperly-trained gym instructors or half-baked yoga teachers. Suddenly launching into heavy, unaccustomed activity is a sure recipe for disaster.

----- Lucy Nicholas also writes on Acne Remedy Home. More info: Acne Treatment & Medication

The Health Care Question

The Health Care Question
By Bob Hubbard

Recently, the following question came in to me at Martialtalk.

Question
"What are people doing for health insurance if they don't have coverage via a spouse? I know some people "go naked" which seems very unsafe. Can you get health insurance via NAPMA and the like? What's typical for a single martial artist with his or her own school?"

The answer unfortunately isn't a great one. Health insurance is a confusing mess right now unfortunately. There is no national system to connect to, so you are left to a maze of confusing offerings that vary from state to state. Plans for the self employed also tend to cost more than comparable plans offered to the employees.

Most insurance companies also refuse to cover "prior" conditions, the definition of 'prior' up to them.

Available plans, terms, rates and insurers vary by state as well.

Here are some resources to help you wade through the maze.

healthinsuranceinfo.net.
This site, maintained by the Georgetown Health Policy Institute, shows a map of the country and after clicking on a state, a document is downloaded that covers everything from what kinds of programs are available to small-business owners to whether there is a high-risk pool available for those who have been rejected by insurance providers.

ehealthinsurance.com
This site allows you to compare a variety of policies offered through about 70 insurance providers. One restriction: ehealthinsurance.com does not serve consumers in all states. Rhode Island, Vermont, Massachusetts, Maine and North Dakota are excluded.

Other starting points are local Chamber of Commerce, the Small Business Service Bureau (sbsb.com), and local independent insurance agents.

You can also check with the Freelancers Union, however the union also has some limitations. It operates in only 30 states, and you have to work in one of the industries or occupations it serves.

Some martial arts organizations such as MATA look to offer varying programs, so contacing them is a good idea. They may have affiliate or group programs that you can tie into potentially saving a good deal of cash.

Regardless of who you end up with, several other steep obstacles await. Monthly premiums exceeding $500-1,000 for an individual seem to be common, and that is for people in good health. For those with health issues, you will face an uphill battle finding an insurer who will cover you.

=========

Bob Hubbard is an administrator of the popular martial arts portal site MartialTalk.com and president of SilverStar WebDesigns inc., a web site design and hosting company specializing in affordable solutions for martial artists. Bob can be reached at webmaster@martialtalk.com
Article Copyright © 2008 - Bob Hubbard - All Rights Reserved.
This article may be reproduced provided all text, the author bio and these terms are kept intact.

Health Tip of the Week - Use Vitamin C to fight off Winters Woes

Health Tip of the Week

Use Vitamin C to fight off Winters Woes
This winter, be sure to include plenty of vitamin C in your diet. Found in foods such as oranges, peppers, pineapples, strawberries, vitamin C can boost your immune system and is important in forming collagen, a protein that gives structure to bones, cartilage, muscle, and blood vessels. It also helps to maintain capillaries, bones, and teeth and aids in the absorption of iron. Keeping your immune system at peak ability will help keep you from too much down time due to illness.

Happy Thanksgiving!

to all my US Readers.

Guest Spot: Recognizing a concussion.

Recognizing a concussion.
By Lisa

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As martial artists and as coaches of others it is important to recognize the signs of a concussion, management of the Athlete with the concussion.

I figured I would post a quick guide to recognizing and evaluating a concussion. I know of many coaches in all kinds of disciplines that have these simple signs/symptoms and managements on small cards that they carry with them to competitions for quick reference if they are ever needed. Good idea, IMO.

REMEMBER: This is just a guide, if you are ever concerned with an athlete, sit them out of what they are doing and seek medical attention.

A concussion is a result of an injury/trauma that causes a temporary change in mental state. The may be caused by a blow to the head, face or jaw or from a whiplash effect to the neck.

Signs and symptoms to recognize a concussion are:

Headache
Dizziness/dazed feeling
confused/disoriented
distracted
seeing starts/feelig "dinged" or stunned
Double or blurry vision
Sensitivity to light
Ringing in ears slepiness/loss of consciousness
Nausea/vomiting
poor balance
slow to follow instructions/respond to quesitons
unusual/inappopriate emotions/personality changes

When an athlete shows signs of a concussion they are not to return to play, not to be left alone and should be medically evaluated as soon as possible. They will require regular monitoring for deterioration and should be awaken every 2 ours overnight for the first 24 hours.


Discussion

Dealing with that annoying Headache By Bob Hubbard

Dealing with that annoying Headache.
By Bob Hubbard

We all get them. That pain in the neck or temples, or behind the eyes. Sometimes they are a minor annoyance, other times they can bring us to tears. Treating them is a multi-million dollar industry, yet there is no guaranteed cure and sometimes the attempts can do you more harm than good. So, what can you do?

Having suffered from constant headaches since a car accident in 2005, I've tried a great many of the different solutions available to me, with varying results. Some worked, some didn't, and some made me feel worse. I prefer to avoid medication as much as possible, looking for non-invasive and non-toxic solutions. Here are a few of the ones that worked for me.

1- Get a good night sleep.
While this sounds silly and common sense, I've found that getting some quality shut eye greatly reduces the impact of my headaches. Many of the ideas that follow can help you get some quality sleep and reduce your headaches.

2- See a competent Chiropractor.
Many of my headaches originate in my neck due to damage there. If you've ever been in a car accident, taken a good fall, or played sports and had a good mashup, there is a good chance somethings a bit out of wack in the back. A good chiropractor can put you back in proper alignment and decrease the instances of head ache.

3- Change the Station.
I love Heavy Metal, but crunchy guitar riffs, heavy bass, and rip raw vocals aren't good for a head that is banging on it's own. Try soft and soothing tracks, New Age, Orchestral and Acoustic Instrumental, or just the sounds of nature. Soft rain, rolling waves, whistling wind, and rolling thunder all can calm the mind and allow the pain to evaporate.

4- Find your Inner Self.
Meditation is a great way to put yourself in tune with you. A major cause of headaches is stress, and meditation is one of the things most often recommended for stress relief. Many people worry about possible religious overtones in meditation, but you can easily find a way to do so that works for you. For me, I find sitting quietly and breathing calmly to be a good way to mediate, or I take a quiet slow walk through the woods and just enjoy nature. Meditation For Dummies (Book and CD edition) by Stephan Bodian is an excellent starting place, as is Relaxation & Breathing for Meditation (DVD) by Rodney Yee.

5- Hot and Cold.
Try a hot towel, or a cold compress on your neck or temples, or both. They can ease and sooth tense muscles and help you to relax.

6- Tiger Balm.
A small dab od tiger balm gently rubbed into your temples and base of your neck can also help sooth an aching head.

7- Yoga.
Once the warm up of ancient warriors, yoga is now one of the premier exercises for improving flexibility and body circulation. One of the major causes of headache are tense and tight muscles and ligaments. By limbering up, you can release much of the tension and stress that would cause headaches. A light workout can often also help decrease the effects and duration of a headache in progress.

8- Water Treatment.
Soak in the tub, or grab a long soothing shower. Both can relax you, and release some of the tension contributing to your headaches.

9- Caffeine.
A cup of coffee or tea with your aspirin has been found to boost the effectiveness of it, however, be mindful of how much caffeine you are taking in. Too much is dangerous, and can lead to headaches, anxiety and even death. Moderate your intake, and watch out for the energy drinks which can spike you way past your own safe zones.

10- Get some fresh air.
Stale air is a problem especially for those of us who work in offices or other closed-air places. Get some fresh air, open some windows, get away from anyplace where people smoke or cook. Fresh air brings more oxygen to your body, which can refresh your mind and flush away toxins. Clear air lets your body relax, and being relaxed helps keep headaches at bay.

Now, these are but a few suggestions. There are many more such as massage and aromatherapy, as well as acupuncture that could also help you ease the pain. Getting your eyes checked can also be a help, as eye strain also leads to headaches, usually those really nasty ones right behind the eyes.

Try these, and remember to talk to your doctor about your headaches. Be safe, be well.

===
Bob Hubbard is an administrator of the popular martial arts sites MartialTalk.com and KenpoTalk.com. He is president of SilverStar WebDesigns inc., a web site design and hosting company specializing in affordable solutions for martial artists. Bob can be reached at kaith@martialtalk.com. More of Bob's articles can be found at rustaz.net.
Copyright ©2008 Bob Hubbard - All Rights Reserved
Copies of this article are free to distribute, provided all text and bio is retained intact.

Tip Of The Week : Got a Headache? Try these simple cures

Tip Of The Week : Got a Headache? Try these simple cures

I get some headaches from time to time due to an car accident I was involved in in 2005. Rather than swallow tons of pills that can only cause other problems, I've found several different natural and gentle ways to calm them.

1- Try soft music and slow gentle breathing. Iron Maiden rocks, but those guitar riffs aren't the best thing to listen to when your head is pounding like Niko's drum kit. Instead try Kitaro, or some Peruvian Pan Flute, or even some Brahms. If that's not your bag, try a cd of rain sounds, or waves, or thunderstorms, or waterfall sounds. Then see my article on how to breath for some simple soothing breathing ideas. This often helps me settle the bongo in my skull.

2- Try some Tiger Balm. Rub a little dab on your temples, and the base of your skull/neck area, then relax for a while. The Balm will trigger sometimes trigger your natural pain relieving ability.

3- Try some Yoga. Slow gentle stretching can sometimes work out the kinks that are making your head pound.

4- Ice Pack or Heat Pack across the eyes, temples, and along the neck will sometimes sooth the pain. A hot shower can also sometimes help.

5- Meditate. This can take your mind off the pain.

6- See a chiropractor or acupuncturist. Both can often provide you with a drug free and safe solution.

Remember, if your headache continues for more than a day, you should consider contacting your doctor.

- Bob

Guest Spot: Breathing for Meditation - Robert Morgen

Breathing for Meditation

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By: Robert Morgen

Breathing is the MOST important part of meditation and Kundalini Awakening. It’s the foundation of all the exercises and skills that come after, so taking the time to learn it now will make things much easier.

From our birth until death we breathe more or less continually, yet for the most part we do it without any awareness of our breath and its effects on us, and believe it or not most people in the western world do it wrong!

Breathe in through your nose and draw your breath down into the area just below your navel, allowing your stomach to expand as you breathe (Baby Breath) and filling your lungs entirely with each breath before exhaling through your nose.

Take a moment right now and feel your breath. Pay attention to the air as it flows in through your nostrils and down into your lungs. Don’t think about anything or do anything other than just breathe.
1. Are you taking a relatively shallow breath and just filling the upper lobes of your lungs?
2. Does your stomach move out as you breathe?
3. Do you feel the bones of your ribcage expanding and opening with each breath?
For most people the answer to 1 is YES and the answers to 2 and 3 are NO so lets expand this exercise a bit.

This time draw your breath down to a point about 2 inches below your navel (the body’s center of gravity). When you do this you’ll feel your stomach expand and push out in front of you. Most westerners usually keep their stomach pulled in and their chest out, so when you do this you’ll have to relax all those muscles. Just take a moment and be aware of your breath as it flows down into your center.

Now as you inhale and draw your breath down, also let your ribcage expand. You’ll feel your floating ribs at the bottom of your ribcage spread and move, and you may get a few pops out of your spine also. Just take a few moments and breathe this way. Don’t think or let your mind wander, just breathe. If you’ve never meditated before then congratulations, you just did! It’s exactly that simple.

There are many benefits to proper breathing. The extra oxygen in your system means that your heart doesn’t have to beat as fast, lowering your pulse and your blood pressure. Drawing the breath down into your center also helps to massage your internal organs, providing more oxygen to them as well as helping to release the accumulated stresses that build up there. The long term health benefits are immeasurable and have been repeatedly proven for thousands of years.

Breathing is by far the most important part of the kundalini awakening exercises, although it sounds so simple. Paying attention to the breath is the beginning of opening up your awareness and it’s seen in every meditative culture on the planet.

Take some time to practice this, as it’s the foundation for everything that comes next. If you have to dedicate your meditation time to breathwork for awhile then that’s good, as we all proceed at our own pace.

I recently read a translation of some of Jesus’ teachings from the original Aramaic (the language he actually spoke, although he apparently wasn’t literate) and it was very interesting to me that in Aramaic they used the same word for ‘wind’, ‘breath’ and ‘spirit’. Those with a Chi Kung background might find it interesting to take another look at the New Testament and insert the word ‘breath’ every time you see the word ‘spirit’.

It’s funny that something as simple as proper breathing can have such a profound effect on the rest of your life, but don’t take my word for it, you can find out for yourself beginning with your next inhale.

© 2006 Robert Morgen. This article may be used by anyone, anywhere as long as the author’s bio and links are included.

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“Breathing for Meditation” is an excerpt from Robert Morgen’s book “Kundalini Awakening for Personal Mastery” (ISBN: 0-9773801-0-6)


His new book “Easy Meditation for Martial Artists” (ISBN: 0-9773801-3-0) is also now available.


Robert Morgen is a Reiki Master who holds a Black Belt in Hoshinjutsu and a Brown Belt in Combat Hapkido. He’s founder of the Mystic Village Online Community at www.mysticvillage.org


He writes a regular column on subtle (or internal) energy for Fight Times Magazine and a column on Kundalini Awakening at Kundalini Awakening Magazine. He’s the author of 3 books and 4 CDs on meditation and energy work.


He’s a member of the Order of Bards, Ovates and Druids as well as the International Bujinkan Dojo Association, Canemasters International and the International Combat Hapkido Federation.


You can learn more about his books, Kundalini and Martial Arts Seminars and free events and newsletters at his website at www.mysticwolfpress.com


Article Source: http://www.mysticvillage.org/articles/

Enjoy some Healthy Shakes!

Enjoy some Healthy Shakes!
- Bob

Healthy Shake and Smoothie Recipes

---

Some of mine. Full nutritional breakdown is at the end. I'll also toss in some Blueberries when I have them, as well as apple or coconut milk (not listed) for variety.

Banana - OJ Shake
1 Banana
1 scoop Protein powder
1 cup ice
1 cup OJ
1 tsp Stevia Powder
=====
309 Cals, 56g Carbs, 2.3g Fat, 22g Protein


Strawbery - Banana Shake
1 Banana
5 small Strawberries
1 scoop Protein powder
1 cup ice
1 cup OJ
1 tsp Stevia Powder
=====
312 Cals, 58g Carbs, 2.4g Fat, 22g Protein


Tropical Delight Shake
1 Banana
1/2 cup fresh pineapple
1/4 cup Fresh Mango
1 scoop Protein powder
1 cup ice
1 cup OJ
1 tsp Stevia Powder
4 oz Plain Yogurt
=====
356 Cals, 80g Carbs, <5g Fat, 27g Protein




Full breakdowns on ingredients:
---------------------------------
Designer Whey Protein Powder - Natural Flavor
Calories = 90
Carbs = 2g
Fat = 1g
Protein = 19g

---------------------------------
Strawberries, fresh
Serving Size: 5 small (1" dia)
Amount Per Serving
Total Carbohydrate 2.5 g
Dietary Fiber 0.8 g
Calories 10.5
Total Fat 0.1 g
Saturated Fat 0.0 g
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.1 g
Monounsaturated Fat 0.0 g
Cholesterol 0.0 mg
Sodium 0.4 mg
Potassium 58.1 mg
Total Carbohydrate 2.5 g
Dietary Fiber 0.8 g
Sugars 0.0 g
Protein 0.2 g

---------------------------------
Blueberries, fresh
Serving Size: 0.5 cup

Amount Per Serving
Total Carbohydrate 10.2 g
Dietary Fiber 2.0 g
Calories 40.6
Total Fat 0.3 g
Saturated Fat 0.0 g
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.1 g
Monounsaturated Fat 0.0 g
Cholesterol 0.0 mg
Sodium 4.4 mg
Potassium 64.5 mg
Total Carbohydrate 10.2 g
Dietary Fiber 2.0 g
Sugars 0.0 g
Protein 0.5 g

---------------------------------
Banana, fresh
Serving Size: 1 medium (7" to 7-7/8" long)

Amount Per Serving
Total Carbohydrate 27.6 g
Dietary Fiber 2.8 g
Calories 108.6
Total Fat 0.6 g
Saturated Fat 0.2 g
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.1 g
Monounsaturated Fat 0.0 g
Cholesterol 0.0 mg
Sodium 1.2 mg
Potassium 467.3 mg
Total Carbohydrate 27.6 g
Dietary Fiber 2.8 g
Sugars 0.0 g
Protein 1.2 g

---------------------------------
Orange Juice
Serving Size: 1 cup

Amount Per Serving
Total Carbohydrate 25.0 g
Dietary Fiber 0.5 g
Calories 109.6
Total Fat 0.7 g
Saturated Fat 0.1 g
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.2 g
Monounsaturated Fat 0.1 g
Cholesterol 0.0 mg
Sodium 2.5 mg
Potassium 473.1 mg
Total Carbohydrate 25.0 g
Dietary Fiber 0.5 g
Sugars 0.0 g
Protein 2.0 g

---------------------------------
Mangos
Serving Size: 0.25 cup, sliced

Amount Per Serving
Total Carbohydrate 7.0 g
Dietary Fiber 0.7 g
Calories 26.8
Total Fat 0.1 g
Saturated Fat 0.0 g
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0 g
Monounsaturated Fat 0.0 g
Cholesterol 0.0 mg
Sodium 0.8 mg
Potassium 64.4 mg
Total Carbohydrate 7.0 g
Dietary Fiber 0.7 g
Sugars 6.1 g
Protein 0.2 g

---------------------------------
Yogurt, plain, low fat
Serving Size: 0.5 container (4 oz)

Amount Per Serving
Total Carbohydrate 8.0 g
Dietary Fiber 0.0 g
Calories 71.2
Total Fat 1.8 g
Saturated Fat 1.1 g
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0 g
Monounsaturated Fat 0.5 g
Cholesterol 6.8 mg
Sodium 79.1 mg
Potassium 264.4 mg
Total Carbohydrate 8.0 g
Dietary Fiber 0.0 g
Sugars 8.0 g
Protein 5.9 g

---------------------------------
Pineapple, fresh
Serving Size: 0.5 cup, diced

Amount Per Serving
Total Carbohydrate 9.6 g
Dietary Fiber 0.9 g
Calories 38.0
Total Fat 0.3 g
Saturated Fat 0.0 g
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.1 g
Monounsaturated Fat 0.0 g
Cholesterol 0.0 mg
Sodium 0.8 mg
Potassium 87.6 mg
Total Carbohydrate 9.6 g
Dietary Fiber 0.9 g
Sugars 0.0 g
Protein 0.3 g


I have removed my recommendation of Splenda, due to concerns on it's safety, and replaced it with Stevia Powder, a completely natural herbal sweetener that has been used for generations without serious issue.

Light Week

Due to the election and being swamped, the first week of November will be a little light in content. We'l be back to usual shortly.

Healthy Food Brief: Brown Rice

Healthy Food: Brown Rice

What is it?
Brown Rice is a whole grain that is made from either unmilled or partly milled rice. It has similar calories, carbohydrates and proteins to the more common white rice, but sometimes contains more fat. The extra bran in brown rice may help lower cholesterol, and is a good source of dietary fiber.

Use:
Rice can be eaten plain, in soups and stews, ground into flour and made into pastas, noodles, breads and other baked goods.

Where to find it:
Most large supermarkets carry a few brown rices, and you can find a wide array of them at your local health food stores.


For more information please see the following:
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=128
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brown_rice

Featured Guest Article: How to Cure High Blood Pressure- 7 Blood Pressure Secrets Doctors Won’t Tell You by: Joe Barton

How to Cure High Blood Pressure- 7 Blood Pressure Secrets Doctors Won’t Tell You
by: Joe Barton

Do you know how to cure high blood pressure with no medication? Most people would probably say to eat healthy (lower your salt-intake) and make sure you exercise. Unfortunately, most doctors tell you this and forget to tell you the other treatments you can be doing to lower your score and eventually be med-free.

The truth is that doctors are educated in medical schools were natural health and simple 'common sense' secrets are not taught. Unfortunately, medicine and antibiotics are only being taught because our medical industry is completely reliant upon pharmaceutical companies.

But new research is now showing the sometimes medicines are not the only treatment. In fact, some natural treatments are just as effective as their medicine counterpart.

Which is making some think, "Is there something doctors are NOT telling us?"

Naturally Treat High Blood Pressure

High Blood Pressure Medications (Diuretics, Beta Blockers, Alpha Blockers, and Vasodilators) work because they lower your blood pressure. The problem is that they make it look that you are healthy but are your numbers showing the truth?

High Blood Pressure medications work because they synthetically alleviate the pressure of the arteries and blood. For instance, with diuretics the blood will become less salty (less thick) and your pressure with drop. Another example would be beta blockers which synthetically cause the heart to beat slower.

Though these medications look good on paper, they are NOT treating the disease known as the 'silent killer'. In fact, they could be prolonging your life but they will never fully treat the disease. And statistics show that users will eventually die from the high blood pressure.

But what if you could naturally treat high blood pressure.

7 Hypertension Tips Your Doctor Won't Share with You

So you want to know, 'how to cure high blood pressure'? First, you need to know how to prevent high blood pressure holistically. Because curing high blood pressure starts with a holistic treatment. Holistically treating hypertension simply means using the 'whole' body to cure the problem. This is completely different than taking a pill to synthetically thin out the blood.

1. Three Miracle Minerals- If you are suffering from high blood pressure, you should be supplementing your diet with 3 miracle minerals that lower high blood pressure. Magnesium, Calcium and Potassium have been shown to help lower blood pressure.

2. Garlic- Garlic has been shown to benefit the heart, lower cholesterol and lower high blood pressure naturally. The compound in garlic, allicin, is thought to naturally lower high blood pressure. Find a quality supplement today.

3. Folic Acid- Vitamin B which is found in green leafy vegetables reduces homocysteine levels in the blood. This vitamin will lower the risk of heart disease and alleviate the pressure naturally.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar- Many or my customers have found success with apple cider vinegar which contains vitamins C, A, E, B1, B2 and B6, in addition to potassium, magnesium, and copper.

5. Relieve Stress- Do you know there are numerous ways to relieve stress? Breathing exercises, exercising, or reading a book are simple ways to relieve stress and lower high blood pressure. And there are even more than this!

6. Your Diet! You know the major Do's and Don'ts about high blood pressure dieting. Just remember to be eating your water-soluble fibers (fruits and vegetables). Fibers, especially water-soluble, will flush your system and plaque. Also, switch to whole grains! With less plaque in the arteries you will eventually be hypertension-free! Our HBP report goes into great detail about how you can treat hypertension with your diet.

7. Green Tea! It is loaded with antioxidants and research shows it lowers high blood pressure. Whether it is the 'relaxing' factor or the natural herbs in green tea, 1 cup of green tea will be helpful for your health!

Normalize your High Blood Pressure in 3 Weeks or Less

What foods should you be eating? What other vitamins are a must? What exercises are an absolute do? What herbs are making doctors scratch their heads? Why is chocolate now good for you?

Are you interested in lowering blood pressure naturally, with out drugs? We offer a 100% guaranteed, medical doctor-approved HBP Remedy Report which shares numerous natural health tips and guarantees to normalize your pressure in 3 weeks or less. If you are serious about living young again, please visit our How to Cure High Blood Pressure Website.

About The Author

Guaranteed to work in 3 weeks or less! Joe Barton and Barton Publishing Inc. have been publishing Hypertension Remedy Reports that teach you how to cure high blood pressure naturally. Are you next?

http://www.bloodpressurenormalized.com/hbp1/

Healthy Food Brief: Barley

Healthy Food Brief: Barley

What is it?
Barley is a popular cereal grain, rich in fiber, selenium and tryptophan. It is used in cereals, and is an ingrediant in beer and other alchoholic beverages. Studies have recently indicated that eating barley can have a positive effect on bood sugar levels, lower cholesterol and help improve intestinal protection.

Use:
Barley is a key component in the making of beer and many breakfast cereals. It's a welcome addition to soups and stews, and sometimes used as a medicine to treat a variety of illnesses.

Where to find it:
Barley is easily found in a variety of forms at local supermarkets, as well as in the health food stores. Most whole grin breads include it as a main ingrediant.


For more information please see the following:
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=127
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barley

Feature Guest Article: Healing Through Qigong - The Art Of Breathing By: Eric Cho

Healing Through Qigong - The Art Of Breathing
By: Eric Cho

The word ‘Qigong’ is made up of the two words ‘Qi’ (meaning breath or gas in Mandarin) and ‘Gong’ (meaning technique or work). Thus Qigong basically means ‘breath work’. Qigong, therefore, is a technique of traditional Chinese medicine involving the regulation and coordination of breathing patterns to ensure good health.

Qigong is believed to be the result of decades of struggle by the Chinese people for survival.

It was noticed that certain breathing techniques used in conjunction with mental concentration greatly improved bodily functions. Qigong has also borrowed heavily from Taoism and Buddhism. Thus religion and spirituality plays a very important role in Qigong techniques. Some forms of Qigong even believe that an individual can attain higher levels of accomplishment only if he is very virtuous.

Traditional Chinese medicine operates on a simple but effective premise – that of ‘Chi’. Chi is the energy or life force that travels through the human body and suffuses all our organs with health and well being. When this flow is blocked or disturbed, there is a disturbance within the system that manifests itself as a disease. According to tradition, all that a doctor has to do to restore good health is to analyze the reasons for the block and to take measures to facilitate the free flow of energy once again.

Qigong teaches an individual to live in such a way that the free flow of energy happens always, so that he is free from diseases. As the two words indicate, Qigong deals with the manipulation of breath to achieve and maintain robust health. This art has found a strong role in the martial arts of ancient China where people had to mobilize energy and stamina in coordination with the physical act of breathing.

This Chinese healing art is an effective form of alternative medicine that uses a series of gentle focused exercises to coordinate the mind and the body. It is believed that most people use only a small portion of the energy within them. Most people get sick because they do not breathe properly. These two facts have been juxtaposed in Qigong, where proper breathing helps bring good health. As such, Qigong is mostly taught for health maintenance purposes. But rarely the doctor also uses Qigong for therapeutic purposes.

In the modern world, millions of people all around the world practice Qigong for maintaining their good health. Qigong and other related arts are still associated with meditation and martial arts. But as opposed to the past, these people are no longer the sole custodians of the intricate techniques involved in Qigong. These techniques have become so popular now that medical Qigong has been officially recognized as a medical technique in China.

The practice of Qigong began nearly 5,000 years ago. Today there are almost 3,000 forms of Qigong. Tai Chi is just one of the more popular forms.

Western medicine accepts that Qigong can improve the overall health and vitality of a person. But the religious connotations that are lying just below the surface have often proved to be a matter of controversy. But there are no two opinions regarding the level of effectiveness of this practice.

About the Author:
Alternative Holistic Medicine

Proper Breathing

Proper Breathing
By Bob Hubbard

The idea of a guide to breathing seems rather strange to some. After all, we all do it automatically. But, like everything else, there is a right way to breath to maximize its benefit to you.

The most common breathing uses only the top half of our lungs. This leaves the bottom portion unused and tends to hinder the fullest absorption of oxygen due to the retention of stale air. This stale air and poor use of our lung capacity effects every organ in our bodies. Every day we take thousands of breaths but rarely will we think about how to improve the process.

Proper deep breathing combined with meditation can reduce stress, expand your consciousness, deepen insights and help create inner peace. Even without meditation, properly breathing can help keep you alert and energized to face the trials of the day.

We enter this world in a soft, relaxed state, gradually growing harder as we age. As we age, we forget how to breathe at our full capacity, taking shallower and shallower breaths. This should be a concern.

One of the first things the singer and musician learn is proper breath control. Body builders and weight training includes proper breathing instruction.

Tai chi, Yoga and other meditative practices require you to become attuned to your breathing at an early stage. In order to bet the maximum from these studies, it is vitally important that the body and the mind receive sufficient oxygen. The act of breathing itself is important for proper bodily function. It massages the internal organs and moves both nutrients and wastes. From a meditative perspective, focusing on proper breathing unclutters your mind, and helps you to relax. How often have you had trouble sleeping and heard "focus on your breathing" or "breath slow and count your breaths"?

So, breathing right is important. But, how do you do it?

In order to understand the right way to breath, you must also know the wrong ways. You want to avoid what are called "Clavicle" and "Thoracic" breathing. In "Clavicle breathing", the abdomen is sucked in and the shoulders and collarbone are raised. It is the shallowest type giving the least benefit. Expanding the rib muscles does “Thoracic breathing” which is where the stomach is often sucked in but the chest rises and falls..

Proper breathing is more than simply "breath in, breath out". Proper breathing involves the abdomen, and four distinct stages: Inhalation, retention, exhalation and pause.

Inhalation
Never force yourself to inhale to the point where you feel so full you might burst. A common mistake, you should never try to force it beyond comfortable fullness. Go about 2/3's full. Don't try to suck in all the air you can as fast as you can. Do it at a slow and steady pace for maximum effect. Breath with your abdomen. To get the feel for this, while wearing loose clothing, lie on your back. Place your hand on the upper abdomen, where the diaphragm is located, approximately just under your rib line. Breathe in and out slowly. The abdomen should expand outward as you inhale and contract as you exhale.

Retention
A common mistake is to breath in and out as fast as you can. This can cause you to become lightheaded, and you get minimal effectiveness of the air. Instead, after breathing in about 2/3 of a lungful of air, hold it for about 3-4 seconds. This allows for proper exchange of oxygen and toxins through the cell walls, and can slow down your heartbeat and reduce blood pressure. Proper retention has many therapeutic benefits to the body.

Exhalation
Don't try to force the air out. Empty from the top to the bottom, in a relaxed manner.

Pause
When the lungs are completely empty, pause for a few seconds. This will allow the abdominal wall and diaphragm to relax so that they may operate at the best of their ability on the next breath.

Proper deep breathing can reduce stress, expand your mind, increase your endurance and energy, and keep you alert. Shallow or incorrect breathing can leave you clouded, tired and lethargic. Regardless of your activity, remember to breath. Be aware of how you are breathing, and focus on a slow deep relaxed breath. You'll find you will be more effective in your daily activities.

===
Bob Hubbard is an administrator of the popular martial arts sites MartialTalk.com and KenpoTalk.com. He is president of SilverStar WebDesigns inc., a web site design and hosting company specializing in affordable solutions for martial artists. A student of all the arts, he is currently studying Modern Arnis.
Bob can be reached at kaith@martialtalk.com. More of Bob's articles can be found at rustaz.net.



Discuss this at MartialTalk

Healthy Food Brief: Quinoa

Healthy Food: Quinoa

What is it?
Quinoa (pronounced Keen Wah), is an ancient grain native of South America, that was once favored by the Incas. It is an excellent complete protein, including all 9 essential amino acids. A good choice for vegans who are concerned about their protein intake, quinoa is a good source of lysine, as well as other health building nutriants.

Use:
Quinoa is a versitile food. You can use it like you would rice, adding it to soups, served on it's own, as a breakfast porridge, and more. You can even find flour made from it, as well as pastas and sprouts.

Where to find it:
Quinoa is slowly turning up more and more in local supermarkets, as well as your local health food store. It's an affordable and nutritious addition to youor diet.


For more information please see the following:
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=142
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quinoa

Feature Guest Article: A 5-Step Breathing Exercise to Better Health, More Energy & Longer Life! By H.W. Williams

A 5-Step Breathing Exercise to Better Health, More Energy & Longer Life! By H.W. Williams

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A 5-Step Breathing Exercise to Better Health, More Energy & Longer Life!
By H. Wei Williams

Just a few minutes a day of this simple breathing exercise will bring you better health, more energy and longer life!

We all know that the human body can go more than a month without food and several days without water… but how long can we survive without air? Without oxygen, we'd be brain-dead within minutes! Yet most of us take our breathing for granted.

Did you know that the brain uses more than three quarters of the oxygen taken in? Without efficient respiration, the human body becomes oxygen-starved: we become sluggish, unable to concentrate, easily fatigued, and slow to react.

But we can change that by simply improving our respiration. Just five to ten minutes practice of this qigong/chi kung diaphragmatic breathing exercise will do wonders for your mind and body. Here's how:

Assume a comfortable position, sitting or lying down, or even standing up.

Make sure your back is straight, not ramrod rigid, but straight in a relaxed way: Your shoulders should not be tense but slightly slumped forward, with your chest slightly caved in. Likewise, your chin shouldn't be thrust forward; instead it should be drawn slightly inward, so that your head is aligned with the rest of your spine.

Inhale fully by pulling down the diaphragm muscle that sits just below the rib cage. This will allow your lungs to expand to its fullest capacity.

When you inhale, breathe in slowly and evenly through the nose, visualizing filling your abdomen full of air, as you expand your abdomen outward.

Sometimes it helps to lie down and put a book on your stomach for visual feedback. Or, if you are sitting or standing, place your hand on your abdomen and feel it expand when you breathe in.

Next, pause a moment before exhaling, again slowly and evenly through your nose. As you breathe out, let your abdomen flatten out. This should be natural, not forced.

Pause for another moment before repeating the cycle again.

And that's it — a simple breathing exercise that most children do automatically, and adults should always practice to extend their health and longevity. Diaphragmatic respiration is just one of many qigong (a.k.a. chi kung) breathing techniques that can bring you many health benefits:

greater mental clarity and alertness;
reduces stress, more relaxation
more energy and vitality, and less fatigue
nourishes, cleanses and detoxifies the body
improves concentration, focus, and memory
facilitates digestion and elimination
better organ function, cardiovascular functions
strengthens immune system
better circulation
aids in cell repair and regeneration
improves overall health and well-being
promotes anti-aging and longevity

Other breathing techniques can also help with weight reduction, faster reflexes, sleep reduction, pain management, treatments of particular diseases and disorders, such as hypertension, asthma and bronchitis, migraines, heart conditions… and much more.

Feel a headache coming? Just take five minutes to breathe it away! Your headache will begin to diminish in just a few minutes of practicing the 5-step breathing exercise just outlined.

Headaches are usually caused by too much tension. Arteries and capillaries carrying oxygenated blood become constricted and the oxygen-starved brain signals with a headache. When you practice qigong yogic breathing techniques you signal to the brain that it's time to relax and increase circulation, thereby increasing your oxygen intake.

Short on energy? Easily fatigued or sluggish? Now you can increase your work efficiency in just five minutes of qigong, right at your seat of work. Literally, just take a breather, and you'll be well rested and ready to work at your fullest capacity in no time!

If you are new to qigong and not accustomed to deep respiration, you may find that your diaphragm and abdominal muscles may feel sore at first. That's because the muscles are not accustomed to the exercise.

Keep your practice brief, no longer than a few minutes at a time. Then gradually increase until it becomes natural and unconscious.

Try it. This breathing exercise is only one of many literally life-giving breathing techniques practiced in qigong meditation — rich in oxygen, rich in life.

H. Wei Williams has trained and taught qigong/chi kung and tai chi chuan for health, self-defense and spiritual growth for almost 30 years. To learn more about respiration and breathing techniques, as well as other qigong-related topics, visit her website [http://www.chikung-unlimited.com/]Chi Kung Unlimited at http://www.chikung-unlimited.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=H._Wei_Williams
http://EzineArticles.com/?A-5-Step-B...ife!&id=675179

Ginseng, A Brief Overview

Ginseng, A Brief Overview by Bob Hubbard

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Ginseng, A Brief Overview
By Bob Hubbard

What is Ginseng?
Ginseng is a common name for the roots several different plants. Used medicinally for centuries by both the Chinese and North American Natives, it is a very diverse plant. Ginseng is often referred to as an adaptogen, a product that does no harm, but increases the body's resistance to stress. This property is unfortunately extremely difficult to prove scientifically, so at this time there is still much debate on the matter.

The uses of the various ginsengs are extremely diverse. Used as both an energy booster, health maintainer, mental booster, and more, it’s use goes back centuries in China and North America, as well as Russia.


Types of Ginseng:
Asian ginseng (panax ginseng)
Asian Ginseng is also called Panax or Korean Ginseng. The active ingredients of Panax are ginsenosides, which have been shown to have several beneficial effects. Included among them are anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anticancer effects. There has also been some clinical research that has demonstrated that Panax ginseng may improve the immune function, conditions associated with diabetes and psychological function. It is native to China, Korea, and Russia, and has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years, primarily as a treatment of weakness and fatigue. It is also combined with other herbs in many TCM treatments.

Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus)
A different plant from both the Asian and American ginsengs, Siberian ginseng contains no ginsenosides, instead eleutherosides are present. It is not considered a true ginseng due to these differences. Siberian ginseng is usually used in a tonic, and is reported to be most useful in maintaining health, rather than treating illness. It has been shown to stimulate resistance to stress, and delay the exhaustive phase. It works by strengthening the bodies natural immune system. It is grown primarily in China, eastern Russia, Korea, and Japan's northern island, Hokkaido, with most of the worlds supply coming from Siberia and China.

American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius)
Also containing ginsenosides, American ginseng is reported to be a boon to those recovering from illness or surgery. Research and studies indicate that is may be of use in treating ADHD, speed up the metabolization or slow down the absorption of alcohol, slow the progression of Alzheimer’s, as well so help improve cardiovascular health and raise HDL levels. However, users of Warfarin (used to prevent blood clots from forming or growing larger) take note: American Ginseng appears to reduce it’s effects.
American ginseng is cultivated in the US state of Wisconsin, , Canadian provinces of Ontario and British Columbia, China and France. The root is gathered in autumn.

All of these species are in the Araliaceae plant family, but each has its own specific effects on the body. Due to its growing popularity, growth is now done with extreme care, with many countries having strict harvesting regulations.


Side Effects and Cautions
Before beginning any herbal treatment, it is highly recommended that one consult with a competent herbalist and pharmacist, so as to avoid any negative interactions with existing medications.

Of specific concern, if you are taking anticoagulants, vasodilators, or are pregnant consult with your physician. Certain treatments for AIDS, cancer, connective tissue disease, heart, kidney and liver disease, and tuberculosis may also have bad interactions with ginseng.

Side effects may include diarrhea, headache, heart palpitations, irritability, insomnia, restlessness, nausea, euphoria, hypertension, hypotension, mastalgia, vaginal bleeding, blood pressure abnormalities and heavier menstrual flow.

Ginsengs are commonly taken for several weeks, and common practice suggests a week or 2 break after every 3-5 week period. Prolonged usage can increase your chances of side effects.


Summary
The various forms of Ginseng have been used for centuries as a treatment for numerous ailments. Research into the real effectiveness of ginseng to treat illness and other health problems continues, with some showing positive results. Used intelligently, with the advice of a competent and up to date physician, ginseng may be of some benefit to you.


References :
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siberian_ginseng
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Panax_ginseng
http://www.umm.edu/altmed/ConsHerbs/...mericanch.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ginseng
http://www.aafp.org/afp/20050501/tips/14.html
http://www.aafp.org/afp/20031015/1539.html
http://www.chiro.org/nutrition/ginseng.shtml
http://www.heartspring.net/ginseng_research.html

===
Bob Hubbard is an administrator of the popular martial arts sites MartialTalk.com and KenpoTalk.com. He is president of SilverStar WebDesigns inc., a web site design and hosting company specializing in affordable solutions for martial artists. A student of all the arts, he is currently studying Modern Arnis. Bob can be reached at kaith@martialtalk.com. More of Bob's articles can be found at rustaz.net. Copies of this article is free to distribute, provided all text is retained intact. It and other articles can be found at rustaz.net


Discuss this at MartialTalk

Welcome to Random Acts of Healing.

Welcome to Random Acts of Healing.

In this blog, I will be presenting articles and healthy living ideas for your review.

I'll be doing 3 updates per week.

• Monday will feature a new article by me on some aspect of a health, healing and enjoying a healthy life.
• Wednesday will feature a guest article containing information that might be helpful to you.
• Friday will feature a food brief on both common and uncommon foods. Check them out, most are esy to work into your diet and boost your health.

I hope you find them useful in improving your own healthy life style.