MIGRAIN HEADACHE

Migraine Headache

Migraine can be defined as a paroxysmal affection, accompanied by severe headache, generally on one side of the head and associated with disorders of the digestion, the liver and the vision. It usually occurs when a person is under great mental tension or has suddenly got over that state.

Migraine is also known as "sick headache" because nausea and vomiting occasionally
accompany the excruciating pain which lasts for as long as three days.

Migraine usually gives warning before it strikes : black spots or a brilliant zig-zag line appears before the eyes or the patient has blurring of vision or has part of his vision blanked out. When the headache occurs, the patient may feel tingling, numbness, or weakness in an arm or leg.

Migraine sufferers have what is known as a "migrainous personality ". They are compulsive
workers and perfectionists, who feel that they have to do everything right away. When they complete a task, they are suddenly laid down from a state of temporary tension to a feeling of utmost relief. Then comes the migraine. It is a purely physiological process. The head and neck muscles, reacting to continuous stress, become overworked. The tightened muscles squeeze the arteries and reduce blood flow. When a person relaxes suddenly, the constricted muscles expand, stretching the walls of the blood-vessel. With every heart beat, the blood being pushed through this vessels expands them further and causes incredible pain.

When a headache strikes, one should stay on one’s feet in the daytime and do simple chores which do not require too much concentration or walk, move around and get some fresh air. The best remedy to prevent headaches is to build up physical resistance through proper nutrition, exercise and constructive thinking. As a first step, the patient should undertake a short fast.


During the fast, citrus fruit juices, diluted with water may be taken six times daily. By taking the load of digestion, the patient will at once save nervous energy which can be utilised for more important purposes. The blood and lymph will also be relieved of a great burden. After a short fast, the diet should be fixed in such a way as to put the least possible strain on the digestion.

Breakfast should consist of fruits, both fresh and dried. Lunch should consist largely of protein foods. Starchy foods such as whole wheat bread, cereals, rice or potatoes should be taken at dinner along with raw salads. Spices, tomatoes, sour buttermilk and oily foodstuffs SHOULD BE AVOIDED!!!. Drinking a glass of water ( warm water in winter and cool water in summer) mixed with a teaspoonful of honey the first thing in the morning, is also a good remedy.

Water Treatment
There are certain water applications which help relieve headaches. Copious drinking of water
can help , as do the cleansing enema with water temperature at 98.6 o F, the hot foot bath, a
cold throat pack, frequent applications of towels wrung out from very hot water to the back of the neck, a cold compress at 40 o to 60o F applied to the head and face or an alternate spinal
compress. Hot fomentations over the abdominal region just before retiring relieve headaches
due to stomach and liver upsets.

Yogic kriyas like jalneti and kunjal, pranayamas like anuloma-viloma, shitali and sitkari and
asanas such as uttanapadasana, sarvangasana, paschimottanasana, halasana and shavasana
are useful in the treatment of headaches.

CONCLUSIONS

DO some fasting (JUICE FAST)
Spices, tomatoes, sour buttermilk and oily foodstuffs SHOULD BE AVOIDED!!!

Links

Headache

Fruit Juice Theraphy
Yoga

Headaches



Headaches

Headaches afflict almost everyone at some time or the other. Most headaches are functional,caused by temporary upsets and are not related to any organic changes in the brain. A headache is often nature’s warning that something is wrong somewhere in the body. The actual pain, however, arises from irritation to nerve endings in the shoulder, neck and scalp muscles and also in the smooth muscles encircling the blood vessels which serve these areas.

There are several types of headaches, with as many ways of treating them. Taking an aspirin ortranquiliser may provide temporary relief but it does not remove the cause. Moreover, thefrequent use of pain-relievers causes nervous debility, weakens the heart and brings on other complications.

The common causes of headaches are allergy, emotional reasons, eyestrain, high blood pressure, hangover, infection, low blood sugar , nutritional deficiency, tension, the presence of poisons and toxins in the body, and migraine. Allergies, an often unsuspected cause of headache, vary in different individuals. The foods to which some people are allergic and which can trigger headaches are milk and milk products, chocolates, chicken liver, alcohol and strong cheese. Sneezing and diarrhoea are further indications of an allergy .

Intense emotions often cause headaches. Many people who outwardly appear to have a
pleasant disposition may actually be simmering about a job, or may bear resentment towards a person or something. This hidden hostility may manifest itself as headache. It is important, therefore, that negative feelings should not be bottled up, but should find some safe means of expressions.

Eye-strain is a common cause of headache. IN such cases, an eye specialist should be consulted and proper treatment taken. Simple eye exercises such as moving the eyes up and down and from side to side, palming, rotating the head, with neck outstretched, forward and
backward three times, then thrice clockwise and thrice anti-clockwise , can relieve eye-strain. High blood pressure can cause pounding headaches. The headache usually starts at the back of the head on getting up in the morning. A safe method of treatment for this is to immerse your legs to calf-level in a tub of hot water for 15 to 20 minutes. This draws the blood away from the head and down to the feet, giving relief from the headache.



Many people get a severe headache after consuming alcohol in excess. Alcohol causes the
blood vessels to swell, resulting in a painful headache. The best treatment for this is to avoid excessive consumption of alcohol. A hangover headache can be avoided by taking a vitamin B-1 ( thiamine) tablet with the drink.

Headaches may occur if there is an infection, such as a cold, virus and fever . Here, it is the infection that should be tackled. Vitamin C therapy is the best all round method. For a cold, high
doses of vitamin C should be taken at hourly intervals with the appearance of the first symptoms like a sore throat, runny nose, etc. Vitamin C has worked miracles, and is considered a natural antibiotic.

Tension headaches are probably the most common of all, and are caused by emotional conflicts which result in stress. Stress causes the muscles of the shoulder, neck and scalp to tense unconsciously. Persons who are irritable, tense and lose their temper quickly usually get this type of headache. It increases gradually and passes off with the release of tension. One should try to relieve the stress which produces the headache.

CONCLUSIONS

Dont take to much tranquilisers
Dont consume Alcohol
Do eye exercise after reading, watching tv, working on pc
Share problems with your friends, dont bottle up your feelings.
Dont eat allergic triggering food
Take vitamin C

Links

Alcohol
Eye Exercise
Vitamin C
Allergic

Healing Power of Colours

Healing Power of Colours

Chromotherapy is a method of treatment of diseases by colour. It is best used as a supportive therapy along with other natural methods of preserving health such as correct diet, adequate rest and relaxation, exercise, yogic asanas and so on.

According to practitioners of chromotherapy, the cause of any disease can be traced to the lack of a particular colour in the human system. Colour therapy is a technique of restoring imbalance
by means of applying coloured light to the body. It was a popular method of cure even in ancient
times. Some 2,500 years ago, Pythagoras applied colour light therapeutically and 'colour halls' were used for healing in ancient Egypt, China and India.

Red :
Symbolic of heat, fire and anger. It is a stimulating and energising colour. It stimulates arterial blood and brings warmth to cool extremities. Used as a general tonic, it is very valuable in the treatment of diseases like low blood pressure, rheumatism, paralysis, anaemia and advanced cases of tuber- culosis.



Orange :
Symbolic of prosperity and pride, orange is useful for stimulating blood supply and energising the nerves. It is beneficial in the treatment of kidney and gall stones, hernia and appendicitis. It is also used to stimulate the milk producing action of breasts after childbirth.

Violet :
Violet is beneficial in the treatment of nervous and emotional disturbances, arthritis, acute cases of consumption and insomnia.

Yellow :
Associated with joy and happiness, yellow is laxative and diuretic. It is a stimulant to the brain, the liver and the spleen. It is also effective in the treatment of diabetes, indigestion, kidney and liver disorders, constipation, eye and throat infections, syphillis and impotence.

Purple :
Purple or indigo combines the blood-warming red and the cooling antiseptic blue. It is an excellent stimulant without being an irritant. It is beneficial in the treatment of advanced stages of constipation, hydrocle , leucorrhoea, many disorders of the stomach and womb , cataract , migraine and skin disorders. It exerts a soothing effect on the eyes, ears and the nervous
system.

Green :
Made up of the blue and yellow, green is regarded as a colour of harmony. It is a mild sedative. It is useful in the treatment of nervous conditions, hay fever, ulcers, influenza, malaria , colds, sexual disorders and cancer. It preserves and strengthens eyesight. Being highly medicinal and depressive, it is of great help in the treatment of inflammatory conditions.

Blue :
Cool, soothing and sedative, blue alleviates pain, reducing bleeding and heals burns. It is beneficial in the treatment of dysentery, colic, asthma, respiratory disorders, high blood pressure and skin aberrations. In a study at the New England State Hospital in the United States, 25 members of staff with normal blood pressure were bathed in blue light for half an hour. It resulted in universal fall in blood pressure. The blood pressure rose when red light was applied.

LINKS =

YOGA
ACNE
Alcoholism

RELATED LINKS =

CHORMOTHERAPY
HEALING WITH COLOR
OZLINK

Pranayama

Pranayama

Prana means ' vital force ' and Ayama means ' control ' in Sanskrit. Thus Pranayama
means the control of the vital force through concentration and regulated breathing. By means of controlled breathing that is, inhaling and exhaling by holding the breath for a fixed time and changing the rhythm of inspiration and expiration, it is possible to influence the life-force in the body.

Pranayama is the process by which such conscious control is achieved through controlled and rhythmical breathing . Pranayama purifies the channels along which the life stream of 'prana' flows in the body and prevents various disorders. It increases one’s resistance to respiratory diseases.

The best position in which to practice pranayama is the padmasana or lotus pose. If for some reason that position is difficult to adopt, it can be done while sitting in any comfortable pose. The important thing is to keep the back, neck and head in a straight line. The body should be in its natural relaxed condition and this can be achieved by resting a few minutes in shavasan.

If necessary, use your right finger and thumb on either side of the nose to control the right and left nostrils during inhalation and exhalation. In practicising pranayama, a ratio of two to one should be maintained throughout, that is, the
exhalation time should be double that required for inhalation. For instance, if inhalation takes 5 seconds, exhalation should take 10 seconds.

Both inhalation and exhalation should be smooth and quiet. Some varieties of pranayama beneficial in the treatment of common ailments are as follows :

Anuloma -viloma :

This is also known as Nadishuddhi pranayama.

Sit in any comfortable meditative pose, keeping your head,neck and spine erect.
Rest your left hand on your left knee.
Close your right nostril by pressing the tip of your right thumb against it.
Breathe out slowly through the left nostril.
Inhale slowly and deeply through the left nostril, keeping the right nostril closed. Close your left nostril with the little finger and ring finger of your right hand and
exhale through the right nostril. Then inhale through the right nostril, keeping the left nostril closed and, lastly, exhale through the left nostril, keeping the right nostril closed.

This completes one round ofanuloma-viloma.
Repeat the entire process.
Inhaling and exhaling should be done very slowly, without making any sound.



This pranayama is a process of purification. It strengthens the lungs and calms the
nerves. It helps cure cough and cold, insomnia, chronic headache and asthma.

Ujjayi :
Sit in any comfortable meditative pose. Inhale slowly, deeply and steadily through both nostrils with a low uniform sound through the glottis. Hold your breathe for a second or two after inhaling and then exhale noisily only through the left nostril, keeping the right nostril closed. Do this as often as required.

This pranayama clears the nasal passage and helps the functioning of the thyroid gland and benefits respiratory disorders, especially bronchitis and asthama.
Persons suffering from high blood pressure should not practice ujjayi.

Bhastrika :

'Bhastrika' means 'bellows.' It is performed by instant and quick expirations of breath. There are many varieties of bhastrika. The simplest technique is as follows : Sit in padmasana.
Do 20 strokes of kapalbhati.
Inhale and exhale rapidly, making a puffing sound.
This is a good exercise for abdominal viscera and lungs.

Sheetali :

Sit in padamasana or any other comfortable posture. Stick your tongue out about an
inche from the lips, rolled up at the sides to form a channel like a bird’s beak. Suck in air through the channel.
After a full inhalation, slowly close your mouth, hold your breath and
exhale slowly through both nostrils.
This completes the exercise. Repeat as required. This pranayama cools the body and mind, activates the liver and bile and has beneficial effects on the circulation and body temperature.

Sitkari :
IN sitkari a sound is produced while inhaling by opening the mouth a little, placing the tip of the tongue against the lower front teeth and then sucking the air in slowly. After holding your breath, exhale through both nostrils. This exercise helps to control thirst, hunger and laziness.

Suryabhedan :
'Surya-nadi ' is the right nostril and ' ChandraNadi' is the left nostril. In this pranayama, one always uses the right nostril for inhalation. Sit in padmasan or any other suitable posture. Keep your head, neck and back straight. Inhale through the right nostril. Hold your breath and then exhale through the left nostril. Hold your breath and then exhale through the left nostril. Repeat as often as required. This pranayama increases gastric juices and helps digestion. It also fortifies the nervous system and clears the sinuses.

Bhramari :
In this pranayama, the buzzing sound of a bee is produced and hence it is called
bhramari. Keep your mouth closed while inhaling. Exhale through both nostrils, producing
the humming sound of a bee. This pranayama affects the ears, nose, eyes and mouth
and makes the complexion glow. It also helps those suffering from insomnia.

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WHAT IS YOGA
ASANAS
KRIYAS

ASANAS

Asanas

First of all before the explanation of ASANAS pose, i would like to apologize because there is no picture describing each pose, maybe in the future i will add the pictures because i have no source of pictures at this moment.

Shavasana ( Dead body pose ) :

Lie flat on your back, feet comfortably part, arms and hands extended about six inches
from the body, palms upwards and fingers half-folded. Close your eyes. Begin by
consciously and gradually relaxing every part and each muscle of the body ; feet, legs,
calves, knees, thighs, abdomen, hips, back, hands, arms, chest,shoulders, neck, head
and face. Relax yourself completely feeling as if your whole body is lifeless. Now
concentrate your mind on breathing rhythmically as slowly and effortlessly as possible.
This creates a state of complete relaxation. Remain motionless in this position,
relinquishing all responsibilities and worries for 10 to 15 minutes. Discontinue the exercise
when your legs grow numb.
This asana helps bring down high blood pressure, and relieves the mind, particularly for
those who are engaged in excessive mental activity. This exercise should be done both at
the beginning and at the end of the daily round of yogic asanas. During a fast, shavasana
soothes the nervous system.

Padmasana ( Lotus pose ) :
Sit erect and stretch your legs out in front of you. Bend one leg to place the foot on the
thigh of the other, the sole facing upwards. Similarly, bend the other leg too, so that the
heels are opposite each other and placed in such a way that they press down on the
other side of the groin. Keep your neck, head and spine straight. Place your palms one
upon the other, both turned upward and cupped, and rest them on the upturned heels a
little below the navel.
Padmasana is a good pose for doing pranayama and meditation. It helps in the treatment
of many heart and lung diseases and digestive disorders. It also calms and refreshes the
mind.

Yogamudra :
Sit erect in padmasana. Fold your hands behind your back, holding your left wrist with the
right hand. Take a deep breath. While exhaling, bend forward slowly keeping your hands
on your back. Bring your face downwards until your nose and forehead touch the floor.
While inhaling , slowly rise back to the upright position. The practice of this asana tones
up the nervous system, builds up powerful abdominal muscles and strengthens the pelvic
organs. It helps pep up digestion, boosts the appetite and removes constipation. It tones
up and relaxes the nerves of the head and face. It also strengthens the sex glands.

Vajrasana ( Pelvic pose ) :

Sit erect and stretch out your legs. Fold your legs back, placing the feet on the sides of
the buttocks with the soles facing back and upwards. Rest your buttocks on the floor
between your heels. The toes of both feet should touch. Now, place your hands on your
knees and keep the spine, neck and head straight. Vajrasana can be performed even
after meals. It improves the digestion and is beneficial in cases of dyspepsia,
constipation, colitis, seminal weakness and stiffness of the legs. It strengthens the hips,
thighs, knees, calves, ankles and toes.

Shirshasana ( Topsyturvy pose ) :

Shirsha means "head " . In this asana, one stands on one’s head. Kneel on the ground,
interlocking the fingers of both hands. Place the ‘ fingerlock ‘ on the ground in front of you,
keeping the elbows apart. Support your head on the fingerlock. Start raising your knees
one at a time, to chest level. Then raise your feet slowly so that the calf muscles touch the
thighs. Breathe normally. This is the first stage which should be done perfectly as the
balance of the final posture depends mainly on this stage. Next, raise your knees first and
then slowly raise the feet so that the whole body is straight, like a pillar. This is the final
pose. Return to the original position by reversing the order, step by step. This asana
should not be done jerkily. The important factor in shirshasana is mastering the balance,
which comes through gradual practice. For proper balance, elbows should be placed
firmly on the ground, alongside the fingerlock. Initially the asana should be done for 60
seconds only. The duration may be gradually increased by a further 10 seconds each
week.
Regular practice of shirshasana will benefit the nervous, circulatory, respiratory, digestive,
excretory and endocrine systems. This asana helps cases of dyspepsia, seminal
weakness, varicose veins, arteriosclerosis, jaundice, renal colic and congested liver.
Those suffering from oozing from the ears, iritis, high blood pressure or a weak heart
should not practice this asana.

Viparitakarani ( Inverted action pose ) :
Lie flat on your back, with your feet together and arms by your side. Press your palms
down, raising your legs to a perpendicular position without bending the knees. Your palms
should touch the waist. Then straighten your legs. The trunk should not make a right
angle with the ground but simply an upward slanting position. The chest should not press
against the chin but be kept a little away. To return to the ground, bring your legs down
slowly, evenly balancing your weight.
Through this asana, the muscles of the neck become stronger and blood circulation is
improved. The functioning of the cervical nerves, ganglia and the thyroid also gets
improved.

Sarvagasana ( Shoulder stand pose ) :
In Sanskrit ‘sarva’ means whole and ‘anga’ means limb. Almost all parts of the body are
involved in and benefit from this asana. Lie flat on your back with your arms by the side,
palms turned down. Bring your legs up slowly to a 90 o angle and then raise the rest of
the body by pushing the legs up and resting their raise the rest of the body by pushing the
legs up and resting their weight on the arms. Fix your chin in jugular notch, and use your
arms and hands to support the body at the hip region. The weight of the body should rest
on your head, back and shoulders, your arms being used merely for balance. The trunk
and legs should be in a straight line. The body, legs , hips and trunk should be kept as
vertical as possible. Focus your eyes on your big toes. Press your chin against your
chest. Hold the pose for one to three minutes. Return to the starting position slowly
reversing the procedure.
Sarvangasana helps relieve bronchitis, dyspepsia, varicose veins and peps up the
digestion. It stimulates the thyroid and para-thyroid glands, influences the bran, heart and
lungs. It helps lymphatic juices to circulate in the brain and strengthens the mind. This
asana should not be done by those suffering Viparitkarani from high blood pressure, heart
disease and eye trouble.

Matsyasana (Fish pose ) :

Sit in padmasana. Bend backwards and lie flat on your back without raising your knees.
Press your palms beneath the shoulder. Push the hip backwards thus making a bridge
-like arch with the spine. Then making hooks of your forefingers, grasp your toes without
crossing your arms. Maintain this pose and breathe rhythmically and comfortably.
Reverse the order and return gradually to the starting position of Padamasana.
Matsyasana is beneficial in the treatment of acidity, constipation, diabetes, asthma,
bronchitis and other lung disorders.

Uttanapadasana ( Left-lifting pose) :

Lie on your back with leg and arms straight, feet together, palms facing downwards, on
the floor close to the body. Raise your legs above two feet from the floor without bending
your knees. Maintain this pose for some time. Then, lower your legs slowly without
bending the knees. This asana is helpful for those suffering from constipation. It
strengthens the abdominal muscles and intestinal organs.

Halasana ( Plough pose ) :

Lie flat on your back with legs and feet together, arms by your side with fists closed near
your thigh keeping your legs straight, slowly raise them to angles of 300, 600 and 900,
pausing slightly at each point. Gradually, raise your legs above your head without bending
your knees and then move them behind until they touch the floor. Stretch your legs as far
as possible so that your chin presses tightly against the chest while your arms remain on
the floor as in the original position. Hold the pose from between 10 seconds to three
minutes, breathing normally. To return to the starting position slowly reverse the
procedure.
This asana relieves tension in the back, neck, and legs and is beneficial in the treatment
of lumbago, spinal rigidity and rheumatism, myalgia, arthritis, sciatics and asthma.

Bhujangasana ( Cobra pose ) :

Lie on your stomach with your legs straight and feet together, toes pointing backwards.
Rest your forehead and nose on the ground. Place your palms below the shoulders and
your arms by the side of the chest. Inhale and slowly raise your head, neck, chest and
upper abdomen from the navel up. Bend your spine back and arch your back as far as
you can looking upwards. Maintain this position and hold your breathe for a few seconds.
Exhale, and slowly return to the original position.
This asana has great therapeutic value in the treatment of diseases like cervical
spondylitis, bronchitis, asthma and eosinophillia. It removes weakness of the abdomen
and tones up the reproductive system in women. It exercises the vertebrae, back muscles
and the spine.

Shalabhasana ( Locust pose ) :

Lie flat on your stomach, with your legs stretched out straight, feet together, chin and
nose resting on the ground, looking straight ahead. Move your arms under the body,
keeping them straight, fold your hands into fists and place them close to the thighs. Now,
raise your legs up keeping them straight together and stretching them as far back as
possible without bending your knees and toes. Hold this position for a few seconds and
repeat four or five times.
This asana helps in the treatment of arthirits, rheumatism and low backache. The whole
body is strengthened by this asana especially the waist, chest, back and neck. Persons
suffering from high blood pressure or heart disease should not practice this asana.

Dhanurasana ( Bow pose ) :
Lie on your stomach with your chin resting on the ground, arms extended alongside the
body with the legs straight. Bend your legs back towards the hips, bring them forward and
grasp your ankles. Inhale and raise your thighs, chest and head at the same time. Keep
your hands straight. The weight of the body should rest mainly on the navel region.
Therefore, arch your spine as much as possible. Exhale and return slowly to the starting
position, by reversing the procedure.
Dhanurasana provides good exercise for the arms, shoulders, legs, ankles, back and
neck. It also strengthens the spine. It relieves flatulence and constipation and improves
the functioning of the pancreas and the intestines. It should not be done by those with a
weak heart, high blood pressure and ulcers of the stomach and bowels.

Makarasana ( Crocodile pose ) :

Lie flat on your abdomen. Spread your legs, with heels pointing towards each other. Bring
your left hand under the right shoulder and grasp it. Grasp the left shoulder with your right
hand, keeping the elbows together, one upon the other on the ground. Your face should
be between your crossed hands. Relax and breathe normally for two or three minutes.
Then gradually go back to the sitting position.
This asana completely relaxes both the body and the mind and also rests the muscles. It
is beneficial in the treatment of hypertension, heart disease and mental disorders.

Vakrasana :

Sit erect and stretch legs out. Raise your right knee until your foot rests by the side of the
left knee. Place your right hand behind your back without twisting the trunk too much.
Then bring your left arm from in front of you over the right knee. Place your left palm on
the ground near the heel of your right foot. Push your knee as far as to the left arm. Twist
your trunk to the right as much as possible. Turn your face to the right over the right
shoulder. Release and repeat on the left side.
This asana tones up the spinal and abdominal muscles and nerves and activates the
kidneys, intestines, stomach, adrenaline and gonad glands. It relieves cases of
constipation and dyspepsia.

Ardhamatsyendrasana :

This is the half position of Matsyendrasana, which is named after the great sage
Matsyendra. Sit erect on the ground, stretching your legs in front of you. Insert your left
heel in the perineum, keeping the left thigh straight. Place your right foot flat on the floor,
crossing the left knee. Pass your left arm over the right knee and grasp the big toe of your
right foot. Grasp your left thigh from the rear with your right hand. Turn your head, neck,
shoulders and trunk to the right bringing your chin in line with the right shoulder. Maintain
this position for a few seconds, gradually increasing the duration to 2 minutes. Repeat the
same process on the other side for the same duration.
This asana exercises the vertebrae and keeps them in good shape. It helps the liver,
spleen, bladder, pancreas, intestines and other abdominal organs, and also stretches and
strengthens the spinal nerves. This asana is beneficial in the treatment of obesity,
dyspepsia, asthma and diabetes.

Paschimottanasana (Posterior stretching pose ) :

Sit erect.
Stretch your legs out in front of you, keeping them close to each other. Bend your trunk
and head forward from the waist without bending your knees and grasp the big toes with
your rest your forehead on your knees. With practice, the tense muscles become supple
enough for this exercise. Old persons and persons whose spine is still should do this
asana slowly in the initial stages. The final pose need be maintained only for a few
seconds. Return to the starting position gradually.
Paschimottanasana is a good stretching exercise in which the posterior muscles get
stretched and relaxed. It relieves sciatica, muscular rheumatism of the back, backache,
lumbago and asthmatic attacks. It is also valuable in constipation, dyspepdis and other
abdominal disorders.

Gomukhasana ( Cow-face pose ) :
Sit erect on the floor, with your legs outstretched. Fold your leg back. Place your left foot
under the right hip. Similarly, fold back the right leg and cross your right foot over your left
thigh. Place your right heel against the left hip. Both soles should face backwards, one
over the other. Now interlock your hands behind your back. See to it that if your right leg
is over the left, then your right elbow should face upward and the left elbow downward.
This position is reversed when the leg position is changed. Hold the pose for 30 seconds
and then repeat the procedure reversing the process. The practice of gomukhasana will
strengthen the muscles of the upper arm, shoulder, chest, back, waist and thigh. It is
beneficial in the treatment of seminal weakness, piles, urethral disorders and kidney
troubles. It also relieves varicose veins and sciatica.

Pavanmuktasana ( Gas-releasing pose ) :
Lie flat on your back, hands by your side. Fold your legs back, placing your feet flat on the
floor ; make a fingerlock with your hands and place them a little below the knees. Bring
your thighs up near your chest. Exhale and raise your head and shoulders and bring your
nose between your knees. This is the final position. Maintain this pose for a few seconds
and repeat three to five times. Reverse the procedure to get back to the original position.
This asana strengthens the abdomineal muscles and internal abdominal organs like the
liver, spleen, pancreas and stomach.
It helps release excessive gas from the abdomen and relieves flatulence. Persons
suffering from constipation should do this exercise in the morning after drinking lukewarm
water to help proper evacuation of the bowels.

Chakrasana ( Lateral bending pose ) :
Stand straight with your feet and toes together and arms by your sides, palms facing and
touching the thighs. Raise one arm laterally above the head with the palm inwards up to
shoulder level and palm upwards when the arm rises above the level of your head. Then,
bend your trunk and head sideways with the raised arm touching the ear, and sliding the
palm of the other hand downwards towards the knee. Keep your knees and elbows
straight throughout. Maintain the final pose for a few seconds. Then gradually bring your
hand back to the normal position. Repeat the exercise on the other side.
This asana induces maximum stretching of the lateral muscles of the body, especially the
abdomen. It strengthens the knees, arms and shoulders and increases lung capacity.

Trikonasana ( Triangle pose ) :
Stand erect, with your legs apart. Stretch your arms up to shoulder level. Bend your trunk
forwards and twist to the left, looking upwards and keeping your left arm raised at an
angle of 900. Place your right palm on your left foot without bending the knees. Maintain
this pose for a few seconds. Then straighten up and return to the normal position. Repeat
the procedure on the other side.
Trikosana is an all-round stretching exercise. It keeps the spinal column flexible and
reduces the fat on the lateral sides of the body. Besides, it stimulates the adrenal glands
and tones up the abdominal and pelvic organs.

RELATED LINKS =

KRIYAS
YOGA
YOGA JOURNAL

Kriyas

Kriyas
A disease-free system should be the starting ground for yogasanas and pranayama. There are six specific cleansing techniques, known as Shat Kriyas, which eliminate impurities and help cure many ailments. Of these, the following four can be practised safely.

Jalaneti :
Most diseases of the nose and throat are caused by the accumulation of impurities in the nasal passage. Jalaneti is a process of cleansing the air passage of the nostrils and the throat by washing them with tepid saline water. Take a clean jalaneti pot. Put half a teaspoonful of salt in the pot and fill it with lukewarm drinking water. Stand up and tilt your head slightly to the right. Insert the nozzle of the pot in the left nostril and let the water flow into it. Inhale and exhale through the mouth, allowing the water to flow out through the right nostril. Reverse this process by tilting your head to the left and letting the water flow from the right to the left nostril.

Jalaneti should be practised only in the morning. It will relieve sore throat, cold, cough, sinusitis, migraine, headache and cases of inflammation of the nasal membranes. It keeps the head cool and improves vision.



Vamana Dhouti or Kunjal :
This is a process of cleansing the interior of the stomach. Drink four to six glasses of tepid water, with a little salt added to it, early in the morning on an empty stomach. Then stand up, bend forward, insert the middle and index fingers of the right hand into the mouth until they touch the uvulva. Tickle it until you feel a vomiting sensation. The saline water thus ejected will bring up bile and other toxic matter with it. Repeat the process till all the water is vomitted out. This should be done once a week or as and when necessary.

It is beneficial for cleansing the stomach in cases of excessive bile, constipation, and gastric troubles. Persons suffering from hyperacidity should perform kunjal with unsalted water. It gives relief from headaches, nervous weakness, chronic cold, cough and asthma. It should not be practised by those suffering from high blood pressure, ulcers and heart trouble. This is kinda gross right? iam not into this one...

Kapalbhati :
Kapala means 'skull' and bhati means 'shine'. This is a respiratory exercise for the
abdomen and diaphragm. The channels inside the nose and other parts of the respiratory system are purified by this exercise. In the process, the brain is also cleared. Sit in a comfortable position, preferably in padmasana. Exercise the diaphragm by exhaling suddenly and quickly through both nostrils, producing a hissing sound. Inhaling will be automotive and passive. The air should be exhaled from the lungs with a sudden, vigorous inward stroke of the front abdominal muscles.

The abdominal stroke should be complete and the breath should be expelled fully. While inhaling, no willful expansion is necessary and the abdominal muscles should be relaxed. This exercise should be done in three phases, each consisting of 20 to 30 strokes a minute. A little rest can be taken in between . Throughout, the throacic muscles should be kept contracted.

Kapalbhati enables the inhalation of a good amount of oxygen which purifies the blood
and strengthens the nerve and brain centres. This kriya provides relief in many lung,
throat and chest diseases like chronic bronchitis, asthma, pleurisy and tuberculosis.


Trataka :
In yoga, four exercises have been prescribed for strengthening weak eye muscles,
relieving eye strain and curing of eye disease. They are known as ' Trataka ' ,which in sanskrit means "Winkles gaze at a particular point." or looking at an object with
awareness.

The four tratakas are : Dakshinay jatru trataka in which, with face forwards, the eyes are fixed on the tip of the right shoulder ; Vamajatru trataka, in which the eyes are fixed on the tip of the left shoulder ; Namikagra trataka, in which the eyes are focussed on the tip of the nose, and Bhrumadhya trataka, in which the eyes are focussed on the space between the eyebrows.

These exercises should be practiced from a meditative position like padmasana or vajrasana. The gaze should be maintained for as long as you are comfortable, gradually increasing the period from 10 to 20 and then to 30 seconds. The eyes should be closed and rested after each exercise. Persons with acute myopia should perform the tratakas wit h their eyes closed.


Related Links =

What is YoGa ?
Juice Therapy

Outlinks =

Yogajournal
Yogasite

Kriyas

YOGA

YOGA

I
Personally dont know what YOGA is, all i know is, it is some kind of posture that you do patiently to achieve inner calm. But, when i do some research from reference health books, now the YOGA is much more than i thought it would be.

The Yoga Therapy or ' yoga-chikitsa' refers to the treatment of diseases by means of yogic exercises which may be physical or mental or both. It is a specialised form of yogic culture. This mode of treatment has been practised in India from very ancient times.

The term 'Yoga' is derived from the Sanskrit root 'yug' which means "to join" . It signifies union between the individual soul (jivatma) and the universal soul (parmatma). It aims at obtaining relief from pain and suffering. Basically, human evolution takes place on three different planes, namely physical, mental and spiritual. Yoga is a means of attaining perfect health by maintaining harmony and achieving optimum functioning on all three levels through complete self-control.



Yogic kriyas, asanas and pranayama constitute the physical basis ofyoga. The practice of kriyas and asanas leads to excellent circulation. It also energises and stimulates major endocrine glands of the body. Yogic exercises promote inner health and harmony, and their regular practice helps prevent and cure many common ailments. They also help eliminate tensions, be they physical, mental or emotional.

Pranayama slows down the ageing process. In ordinary respiration, one breathes roughly 15 times a minute, taking in approximately 20 cubic inches of air. In pranayama the breathing rate is slowed down to once or twice a minute and the breath inhaled is deep and full, taking nearly 100 cubic inches of air.

All yogic exercises should be performed on a clean mat, a carpet or a blanket covered with a cotton sheet. Clothing should be light and loose-fitting to allow free movement of the limbs. The mind should be kept off all disturbances and tensions. Regularity and punctuality in practicising yogic exercises is essential. Generally, 5 a.m. to 8 a.m. is the ideal time for yoga practices.

Yoga asanas and pranayama should be practised only after mastering the techniques with the help of a competent teacher.

Asanas should always be practiced on an empty stomach. Shavasana should be practiced for a brief period before starting the rest of the exercises as this will create the right mental condition. Asanas should be performed at a leisurely slow-motion pace, maintaining poise and balance.

Herein are described certain yogic kriyas, asanas and pranayama which have specific
therapeutic values and are highly beneficial in the maintenance of health and the healing of diseases.

KRIYAS
ASANAS

NEXT ARTICLE


Common Disease Therapy with RAW JUICE

RAW JUICE THERAPY

Common Disease Therapy

Acidity : Grapes, orange, mosambi, carrot and spinach.

Acne : Grapes, pear, plum, tomato, cucumber, carrot, potato and spinach.

Allergies : Apricot, grapes, carrot, beet and spinach.

Arteriosclerosis : Grapefruit, pineapple, lemon, celery, carrot, lettuce, and spinach.

Anemia : Apricot, prune, strawberry, red grape, beet, celery, carrot and spinach.

Arthritis : Sour cherry, pineapple, sour apple, lemon, grapefruit, cucumber, beet, carrot, lettuce and spinach.

Asthma : Apricot, lemon, pineapple, peach, carrot, radish and celery.

Bronchitis : Apricot, lemon, pineapple, peach, tomato, carrot, onion and spinach.

Bladder Ailments : Apple, apricot, lemon, cucumber, carrot, celery, parsley and watercress.

Colds : Lemon, orange, grapefruit, pineapple, carrot, onion, celery and spinach.

Constipation : Apple, pear, grapes, lemon, carrot, beet, spinach and watercress.

Colitis : Apple, apricot, pear, peach, pineapple, papaya, carrot, beet, cucumber and spinach.

Diabetes : Citrus fruits, carrot, celery, lettuce and spinach.



Diarrhea : Papaya, lemon, pineapple, carrot and celery.

Eczema : Red grapes,carrot, spinach, cucumber and beet.

Epilepsy : Red grapes, figs, carrot, celery and spinach.

Eye Disorders : Apricot ,tomato, carrot, celery, parsley and spinach.

Gout : Red sour cherries, pineapple, tomato, cucumber, beet, carrot, celery and spinach.

Halitosis : Apple, grapefruit, lemon, pineapple, tomato, carrot, celery and spinach.

Headache : Grapes, lemon, carrot, lettuce and spinach.

Heart Disease : Red grapes, lemon, cucumber, carrot, beet and spinach.

High blood pressure : Grapes, orange, cucumber, carrot and beet.

Influenza : Apricot, orange, lemon , grapefruit, pineapple, carrot, onion and spinach.

Insomnia : Apple, grapes, lemon, lettuce , carrot and celery.

Jaundice : Lemon, grapes, pear, carrot, celery, spinach, beet and cucumber.

Kidney Disorders : Apple, orange, lemon, cucumber, cucumber,carrot, celery, parsley and
beet.

Liver ailments : Lemon, papaya, grapes, carrot, tomato, beet and cucumber.

Menstrual Disorders :Grapes, prunes, cherry, spinach, lettuce turnips and beet.

Menopausal Symptoms : Fruits and Vegetables in season.

Neuritis : Orange, pineapple, apple, carrot and beet.

Obesity : Lemon, grapefruit, orange, cherry, pineapple, papaya, tomato, beet, cabbage, lettuce,
spinach and carrot.

Piles : Lemon, orange, papaya, pineapple, carrot, spinach, turnip and watercress.

Prostate Troubles : All fruit juices in season, carrot, asparagus, lettuce and spinach.

Psoriasis : Grapes, carrot, beet, and cucumber.

Rheumatism : Grapes, orange, lemon, grapefruit, tomato, cucumber, beet, carrot and spinach.

Stomach Ulcers : Apricot, grapes, cabbage and carrot.

Sinus Trouble : Apricot, lemon, tomato, carrot, onion and radish.

Sore Throat : Apricot, grapes, lemon, pineapple, prune, tomato, carrot and parsley.

Tonsillitis : Apricot, lemon, orange, grapefruit, pineapple, carrot, spinach and radish.

Varicose Veins : Grapes, orange, plum, tomato, beetroot carrot and watercress.

Related LINKS =

RAW JUICE THERAPY
HEALTH LIBRARY
Alumni.byu.edu

RAW JUICE THERAPY

RAW JUICE THERAPY

Raw juice therapy is a method of treatment of disease through an exclusive diet of juices of fruits and vegetables. It is also known as JUICE FASTING. It is the most effective way to restore health and rejuvenate the body.

During raw juice therapy, the eliminative and cleansing capacity of the organs of elimination, namely lungs, liver, kidneys and the skin, is greatly increased and masses of accumulated metabolic waste and toxins are quickly eliminated. It affords a physiological rest to the digestive and assimilative organs. After the juice fasting or raw juice therapy, the digestion of food and the utilization of nutrients is vastly improved.

WHY RAW JUICE ?

Raw juices of fruits and vegetables are extremely rich in vitamins, minerals, trace
elements, enzymes and natural sugars. They exercise beneficial effect in normalizing all the body functions. They supply needed elements for the body’s own healing activity and cell regeneration, thereby speeding the recovery.

The juices extracted from raw fruits and vegetables require no digestion and almost all their vital nutrients are assimilated directly in the bloodstream. Raw juices are extremely rich in alkaline elements. This is highly beneficial in normalizing
acid-alkaline balance in the blood and tissues as there is over-acidity in most conditions of ill-health.

Generous amounts of easily assimilation organic minerals in raw juices especially calcium, potassium and silicon help in restoring biochemical and mineral balance in the tissues and cells, thereby preventing premature aging of cells and disease.

Raw juices contain certain natural medicines, vegetal hormones and antibiotics. For
instance, string beans are said to contain insulin-like substance. Certain hormones
needed by the pancreas to produce insulin are present in cucumber and onion juices.
Fresh juices of garlic , onions, radish and tomatoes contain antibiotic substances.

The PRECAUTIONS of preparing RAW JUICE.

All juices should be made fresh immediately before drinking. Canned and frozen juices should not be used. Only fresh ripe fruits and vegetables, preferably organically grown, should be used for extraction of juices.

Only as much juice as needed for immediate consumption should be extracted. Raw juices oxidize rapidly and lose their medicinal value in storage, even under refrigeration. e.g (apples turn brown)

The quality of the juices has a distinct bearing on the results obtained. In case of incomplete extraction of juices, their effective power is proportionately reduced due to the absence of the vitamins and enzymes which are left behind in fibre and the pulp.

If juices are too sweet they should be diluted in water on 50 : 50 basis or mixed with other less sweet juices. This is especially important in some specific conditions such as diabetes, hypoglycemia, arthritis and high blood pressure.

RULES OF RAW JUICES.

Juices from sweet fruits may be combined with juices of sub-acid fruits, but not with vegetable fruits or vegetables.

Juices from sub-acid fruits may be combined with juices of sweet fruits, or acid fruits, but not with other juices.

Juices from acid fruits may be combined with those of sub-acid fruits or vegetable fruits, but not with other juices.

Juices from vegetable fruits may be combined with those of acid fruits or of green leafy vegetables, but not with other juices.

Juices from green leafy vegetables may be combined with those of vegetable fruits or of the root vegetable, but not with other juices.

Juices from root vegetables may be combined with those of green leafy vegetables, but
not with other juices.


RELATED LINKS =

ACNE
ALCOHOLISM


ACNE

ACNE

Acne, wargh!!! My skin looks so ugly!!! When talking about acne, usually mens don’t really bother about it including me, but girls do. So what is acne? Lets get to know acne more closer so that we will know how to treat it.

Acne is perhaps the most common chronic skin disease. It is an inflammatory condition of the sebaceous (that is fat or grease) glands and hair follicles usually found on the face, the neck, chest and shoulders. Nearly eight out of ten young people between the ages of 12 and 24 suffer from some degree of acne. It is closely related to the disturbance in the hormones experienced at puberty.

The majority of patients recover between the ages 20 and 30 years. But it is still common in men over 30 years. In women, it rarely lasts beyond the early thirties and is normally worse before each menstrual period. The disease causes a great deal of embarrassment at an age when people tend to be sensitive about personal appearance.




CAUSES

All forms of acne have their origin in wrong feeding habits, such as irregular hours of eating, improper food, excess of starches and sugar, excess of fatty foods. Chronic constipation is another major cause of acne. If the bowels do not move properly, waste matter is not eliminated as quickly as it should be and the bloodstream becomes surcharged with toxic matter.

The extra efforts of the skin to eliminate excess waste result in acne and other forms of skin disease. Yet another important cause of acne is a devitalized condition of the skin resulting from unhygienic living habits. Other causes of the disorder are excessive use of tea, coffee, alcohol or tobacco, strenuous studies, masturbation and sedentary habits which lead to indigestion and general debility.



Treatment

The treatment of acne by the administration of salve or ointment does not serve any purpose. They only suppress the action of the sebaceous glands temporarily. In nature cure, the main emphasis is on diet and certain water applications. To begin with the patient should resort to all -fruit diet for about a week. IN this regimen, there should be three meals a day, consisting of fresh juicy fruits, such as apples, pears, grapes, grape-fruit, pineapple and peaches. Citrus fruits, bananas, dried, stewed or tinned fruits should not be taken. Unsweetened lemon or plain water, either hot or cold, should be drunk and nothing else.

During this period, warm -water enema should be taken daily to cleanse the bowels and all other measures adopted to eradicate constipation. After a week of all fruit diet, the patient can gradually adopt a well-balanced diet.

Emphasis should be on raw foods, especially fresh fruits and vegetables, sprouted seeds, raw nuts and whole grain cereals, especially millet and brown rice. Further shorter periods on the all-fruits for three days, or so may be necessary at a monthly interval till the condition of the skin improves.

Strict attention to diet is essential for recovery. Starchy, protein and fatty foods, should be restricted. Meats, sugar, strong tea or coffee, condiments, pickles, refined and processed foods should all be avoided, as also soft drinks, candies, ice cream and products made with sugar and white flour.

Two vitamins, namely, niacin and vitamin A have been used successfully to treat acne. The vitamin therapy which may comprise a niacin, 100 mg. three times daily and vitamin A in large doses up to 1,50,000 units per day should not exceed one month. Vitamin E is also vitally important to prevent scarring from acne and in removing old scars.

Another effective remedy in the realm of nutrition that seems to offer new promise of help for acne is zinc. It has shown dramatic results in some cases. Zinc should be taken in therapeutic doses of 50 mg. three times a day. After noticeable improvement it can be gradually reduced.

RELATED LINKS =

  1. ALCOHOLISM
  2. FOOD TO AVOID AND TO REPLACE
  3. BENEFITS OF FASTING
  4. ACNE on www.acne.org
  5. ACNENET




ALCOHOLISM

ALCOHOLISM


Alcoholism refers to addiction to alcohol. It is a chronic disorder, in which a person is unable to refrain from frequent and excess consumption of alcohol for physical or psychological reasons. The World Health Organization (WHO) has listed alcoholism as one of the three most deadly killer diseases of the 20th century.


Alcoholism is also one of the serious social problems. It often brings poverty and certain amount of crime and results in material unhappiness and broken homes. It also leads to numerous traffic accidents.

“DON’T DRINK AND DRIVE”

CAUSES


Alcoholism results from intemperate drinking. Sometimes it sneaks upon a person comparatively rapidly; other times, years may pass before a person becomes a full-fledged alcoholic. A weak-minded person consoles himself by taking to drugs or alcohol. In doing so he simply tries to escape the situation rather than face it boldly.

A person generally takes to drinking as a means to enliven social life, to overcome anxiety or to induce sleep. He becomes an alcoholic if he gets dependent on alcohol physically and psychologically. He resorts to heavy drinking because of his maladaptive way of dealing with life’s stresses.

“ Music and fresh air is better than being drunk ”.


TREATMENT


The chronic alcoholic first of all must make a firm resolve to stop drinking. He should abstain from alcohol all at once for the habit cannot be got rid of in gradual stages.



The most effective way to treat alcoholism is to build the body’s nutritional integrity soaps to prevent craving for stimulants like drinks. The patients should be put on a cleansing JUICE fast for at least ten days in the beginning.

During this period, he should have juice of an orange every two hours from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. The juice may be diluted with warm water, if desired. If orange juice does not agree, vegetable juices may be taken.

“ Its good that the treatment uses juices, but what if you have to take some injection shots? Painful isn’t it? “

It will be advisable to follow the ten commandments to prevent alcoholism, offered by a psychiatrist =

  • never drink when you ‘ need one’;
  • sip slowly ;
  • space your drinks, taking a second drink 30 minutes after
  • the first and a third an hour after the second ;
  • dilute your alcohol;
  • keep an accurate and truthful record of the amount and
  • number of drinks you take ;
  • never conceal the amount of alcohol you drink ;
  • do not drink on an empty stomach ;
  • stop drinking on ‘signal ‘ ( signals are lunch, dinner, fatigue, sex stimulation, boredom, frustration
  • and bedtime);
  • make it a rule never to take a drink to escape discomfort - either physical or mental ; and
  • never, never take a drink in the morning thinking it will cure a hangover.

But its still better for NOT TO DRINK !! SAY NO TO ALCOHOL !!!

RELATED LINKS =

  1. HOW NATURE CURES
  2. MOOD FOODS
  3. FASTING
  4. NIAAA
  5. ABOUT ALCOHOLISM


HOW FIT ARE YOU?


How fit are you?

1. Do you take some form of aerobic exercise?

A. Only rarely

B. Two or three times per week

C. At least four times per week

2. If asked to climb three flights of stairs, would you:

A. Look for lift or escalator instead?

B. Struggle to the top of difficulty?

C. Reach the top without stopping or undue puffing?

3. Everyday do you walk on average:

A. As little time as possible?

B. About 1.5 KM (1 mile)

C. About 3 KM – 5KM (2-3miles)

4. If you going out to work or on errands do you:

A. Travel by car or public transport?

B. Walk part of the way?

C. Sprint if necessary to catch a bus or train?

5. After work or at weekends do you mostly:

A. Slump in front of television or read?

B. Carry out active tasks in the house or garden?

C. Take part in sport exercise?

YOUR SCORE =

  • Mostly A’s = You would be wise to start an exercise program as soon as possible, but consult your doctor first.
  • Mostly B’s = The spirit may be willing, but the flesh is a little weak. You should try to make more effort.
  • A mix of B’s and C’s = You are probably in reasonable shape but keep an eye on yourself.
  • Mostly C’s = Congratulations – you are very fit. Keep it up.
RELATED LINKS =

  1. EXERCISE
  2. CALCULATE HEART BEAT
  3. BOOSTING BRAIN POWER

HOW TO CALCULATE YOUR HEART RATE ?


HOW TO CALCULATE YOUR HEART RATE ?


Your optimum heart rate DURING EXERCISE should ideally kept at 60-80% of your maximum heart rate, which you can establish by subtracting your age from 220.


e.g. = 220 – 20(20 is your age) = 200, 60% times 200 = 120 beat per minute.


So what is your optimum heart rate? Calculate now by using the formula above!


People who exercise regularly learn what their optimum heart rate feels like. As you become fitter, you will need to step up the intensity of exercise to maintain your optimum heart rate.

To calculate heart rate, PLACE TWO FINGERS on the pulse at the side of your NECK or on your WRIST. Count the beats for 15 seconds, then multiply by 4. That’s your heart rate.

e.g. = in 15 sec, my heart pulse is 16,

Times it by 4

My total heart rate is = 16 times by 4 = 64

this is during resting (during i am writing this article)

RELATED LINKS =

EXERCISE
THE IMPORTANTS OF FIBRE
BOOSTING BRAIN POWER
CAN THE MIND CAUSE DISEASE?
HEART ONLINE
AMERICAN HEART ASSOCIATION



IMPROVE YOUR MOOD NOW !!

Exercise and MOOD


Exercise is nature’s anti depressant. Physiological changes in the body and brain can induce elation when we exercise, and depression and anxiety when we do not. During exercise, body temperature rises by 2 or 3 degrees, giving a sense of warm relaxation; ENDORPHINES hormones are released; and the Alpha brain waves associated with relaxation become more dominant.

Sustained exercise burns the stress chemicals accumulated during inactive day, and after exercise, the body’s natural relaxation response returns body and mind to regenerative state. It might take 6-8 weeks for exercise to change the body and IMPROVE BODY IMAGE, but it can change your mood at once.

AEROBIC exercise, such as brisk walking, jogging, cycling and swimming is best for mood enhancement. Coordinating movements with your breath helps to stop you over – exercising and may even help to induce state of “RELAXED AWARENESS”.

Search more on the BOLD words to know more about it.

Boosting Brain Power

Exercising to boost brain power



Exercise does boost brain power, As we grow older, keeping fit feed the brain with oxygen and maintain mental alertness. In one study, sedentary older people showed improvement in various mental tasks after four months of moderate exercise.

To function, the brain depends on Glucose (sugar) and oxygen carried in cardiovascular system. If there are insufficient amount of these, brain cells die, giving weight to the old adage that if you dont use it, you lose it.

Some researchers belief that exercise requiring co-ordination and mental agility, such as tennis, may generate more connection between nerve cells.

There is a saying says :

STRONG BODY, TOUGH MINDS

Exercise for Energy and Well Being

Exercise for Energy and Well Being

Research have revealed that exercise can improve MOOD, lift DEPRESSION, BOOST SELF ESTEEM, LESSEN ANXIETY, and enable us to cope better with STRESS, It also encourages sound sleep, improve IMMUNE FUNCTION, and help us to LIVE LONGER.

All human activity physical or mental, is powered by energy converted by food that has been eaten and oxygen that has been breathed into lungs.

Sedentary people often feels less energetic than those who exercise regularly. Exercise actually increases the body ability to produce energy effectively.

A flexible body with a good muscle tone, and with an efficient heart and lungs well synchronized with the circulation, can help create a sense of physical wholeness. This makes us feel energized and ready to deal with life's demand.

So put up your shoes and let's all exercise everyone!!

The Benefits of Exercising

The Benefits of Exercise


Regular exercise improves the function of the heart and lungs and strengthens muscle to give more stamina. It keeps joints mobile; increases circulation so that the SKIN LOOK HEATHIER; helps prevent heart disease and prostate, colon and breast cancer; lowers high blood pressure and cholesterol levels; reduces the risk of diabetes and help weight loss. Exercise may help alleviate premenstrual tension and menstrual pain, and strengthens bones by increasing their mineral content, which reduces the risk of Osteoporosis.


Exercise TIPS.

  • Warm up for 5-10 minutes before exercising to increase heart rate and blood flow, stretch the muscles and reduce the risk of injury.
  • Cool down afterward with slower movements and stretching exercises to prevent muscle cramps and stiffness.
  • Set sensible goals, especially if you haven’t exercise for a while, (let say today I run for 1 KM only the next day 2 KM and so on…) Build up gradually, so you are less likely to become fatigue and dispirited.
  • Drink plenty of fluids to replace what is lost in sweat, during after exercise, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
  • Stop if you feel any pain. At first muscles may feel sore after exercising.
  • Wear suitable training shoes.

INSOMNIA


Insomnia


Easy meaning = Sleeplessness.

The signs of pathological insomnia are dramatic changes in the duration and quality of sleep, persistent changes in sleep patterns, lapses of memory and lack of concentration during the day. Other symptoms are emotional instability, loss of coordination, confusion and a lingering feeling of indifference. Now we know how the insomniac people always behave, but what causes them to be like that?


Causes

Most common cause of sleeplessness is mental tension brought by anxiety, worries, overwork and overexcitement. Suppressed feelings of resentment, anger and bitterness may also cause Constipation, dyspepsia, over-eating at night, excessive intake of tea or

coffee and going to bed hungry are among the other causes. Smoking is another unsuspected cause of insomnia as it irritates the nervous system, especially the nerves of the digestive system. Often, worrying about falling asleep is enough to keep one awake.


Okay now we discuss about the Cure for Insomniac people.


How about taking sleeping pills?,

My suggestion is NO, Sleeping pills are no remedy for sleeplessness. They are habit forming and become less effective when taken continuously. They lower the I.Q., dull the brain and can prove fatal if taken in excess or before or after alcohol. The side-effects of sleeping pills include indigestion, skin rashes, lowered resistance to infection, circulatory and respiratory problems, poor appetite, high blood pressure, kidney and liver problems and mental confusion.

To overcome the problem, one should adhere to a regular sleeping schedule, going to bed at a fixed time each night and getting up at a fixed time each morning. Early to bed and early to rise is a good rule. Two hours of sleep before midnight are more beneficial than four after. It is sheer folly for students, at examination times, to keep awake till long after midnight, drinking one cup of tea after another, as that is only apt to cause blackness and inability to concentrate in the examination hall.

Research has shown that people with chronic insomnia almost invariably marked deficiencies of such key nutrients as B-complex vitamins, and vitamin C and D as also calcium,magnesium, manganese, potassium and zinc. The sleep mechanism is unable to function efficiently unless each of these nutrients is present in adequate amounts in the diet.

Eating pattern must be modified, coffee, tea, fatty foods, coloring and flavoring, excessive use of salt and strong condiments must be excluded. In the modified eating pattern, breakfast should consist of fresh and dried fruits, whole cereals,

seeds and yogurt. Of the two main meals, one should consist of a large mixed salad and the other should be protein-based. A cup of milk sweetened with honey at bedtime is helpful as the amino-acid tryptophan contained in milk induces sleep.

Sleep is often elusive. Any attempt to force it only drives it further away. It is better to divert the mind with soft music or light reading. While going to bed, visualise a blank black wall occupying the entire field of vision. Turn your thoughts to light and cheerful matters. Use light bed clothes and relax. Do not lie on your back, put on your side with one or both knees brought well up and the head and shoulders slightly forward. During the night, the position of the arms and legs should be changed frequently and a healthy sleeper usually shifts from one side to the other several times in the course of the night.

Controlled breathing is also a great help in inducing sleep. The method is to lie on your side in bed, and then take three deep breaths expanding the abdomen completely. Then hold your brath as long as you can. Next, take three more breaths and repeat the breath-holding. While you hold your breath, carbon dioxide accumulates in the body and induces natural sleep. Regular, active exercising during the day and mild exercise at bedtime enhances the quantity and the quality of sleep. Exercise stimulates the elimination of lactic acid from the body which correlates with stress and muscular tension.

Regular exercise also produces hormonal changes which are beneficial to the body and to the sleep pattern. Walking, jogging, skipping, swimming are all ideal exercises. Vigorous exercise should, however, be avoided at night as this can be over-stimulating.

RELATED LINKS =

STRESS
MOOD FOODS
IMPROVE MOOD
EXERCISING
THE VALUE OF SLEEP

THE VALUE OF SLEEP


THE VALUE OF SLEEP

A good night sleep is often the best way to cope with stress, solve problems or recuperate from illness. Rapid Eye Movement (REM) [dreaming] and NON-REM (NREM) [ deep sleep] are the types of sleep that occur when you sleep.

TIPS for a RESTFUL night
  • Avoid large meals and stimulants(caffeine, alcohol, tobacco)
  • Don’t go to bed hungry
  • Take aerobic exercises during the day to reduce stress hormones, but avoid anything too strenuous within 3 hours of sleep. Regular exercises may promote deeper sleep.
  • Go to bed at regular time
  • Avoid napping late in the afternoon.
  • Stop work an hour before bedtime to calm mental activity.
  • During bedtime, keep your mind off worries or things that upset you.
  • Make sure room is ventilated and a comfortable temperature (below 24 degree celcius/75 Fahrenheit.
  • Keep Bedroom for sleeping only not for your workplace.
  • If you cant sleep or if you wake up, go into another room and read a book or watch TV until you feel sleepy.
  • Learn relaxation techniques such as progressive muscle relaxation and practice it in bed.
  • If early daylight disturbs sleep, use an eye mask or invest in heavy curtains.
  • Sleep in Complete DARKNESS if can.
  • A hot bath before sleep relaxes your body.

A picture shows brainwave when you sleep

How much sleep do we need?

That depends on individual and it decreases with age. Some researchers claim that we may need as much as 91/2 – 10 hours of sleep or we risk chronically under functioning. Other experts believe that while 6 hours of sleep is the MINIMUM to avoid feeling TIRED, 7-8 hours of sleep a night is about the right for most people.

Insomnia ? cannot go to sleep? try those steps given above, the results are great for me. If you still cant, try to take vitamin B, or contact your physician before taking any sleeping pills.

STRESS



STRESS

Most of us know what stress is right? It has been set in our mind that stress is something that gives you headache and makes us under pressure. Well there is a positive part for stress, it keeps us awake, it gives us the incentive to do our best, or the element of risk that sustains ambition. A life without any challenge, with too little to do and to much time, can be as great a source of negative stress as too much work and too many deadlines.

How to handle stress?

Research found that generally the ability to remain fit and cheerful under stress was linked to = commitment to self, job, family, and community; the acceptance of change as part of life; the feeling of control over life, and the belief that you can influence events.

  • Arrive early at work so that you can plan the daily task much better.
  • Organize your day and avoid rushing.
  • Become assertive: learning to say no so that you don’t take on so much.
  • Delegate: hand over jobs so that other people can do.
  • Prioritize tasks to make the most efficient of time.
  • Eat light lunch, away from your work place as possible.
  • Avoid SKIPPING meals and try to eat balanced diet.
  • Avoid working late and take a few quiet minutes alone after work.
  • Make time for relaxation.
  • Aim 6-8 HOURS OF SLEEP each night.